South Africa: President signs off salary increases for Public Office Bearers

President Cyril Ramaphosa has signed off the remuneration increases for all Public Office Bearers for the 2022/23 financial year.

In a statement, the Presidency said that after consideration of the recommendations of the Independent Commission for the Remuneration of Public Office Bearers, the President has decided that the remuneration of all public office bearers will increase by 3% with effect from 01 April 2022.

The Commission had recommended 3.8% salary increment for all public office bearers, including members of the Independent Constitutional Institutions, Judges, Magistrates and Traditional Leaders for the financial year 2022/2023.

Having considered the Commissions recommendations and serious economic challenges facing the country, the President has decided that the salaries of all public office bearers be increased by three percent, the Presidency said.

Public office bearers include the President, Deputy President, Ministers and Deputy Ministers, Members of Parliament and the National Council of Provinces (NCOP) as well as the leadership structures of the two houses, Premiers and MECs, members of the provincial legislature and their associated leadership structures, mayors and councillors, judges and magistrates and traditional leaders.

Magwenya said the President has in accordance to relevant statutory requirements submitted the notice to Parliament for approval before publication, particularly concerning salaries of judges and magistrates.

The President expressed his appreciation to the Independent Commission for its recommendations.

Public Protectors report

Meanwhile, the Presidency has noted the report of the Acting Public Protector, Advocate Kholeka Gcaleka, which absolves the President of alleged abuse of power or breaches of the Executive Ethics Code in relation to an incident of theft at his privately-owned Phala Phala game farm in 2020.

The President has always maintained that he was not party to any wrong doing or violation of his oath of office, the Presidency said.  SAnews.gov.za

This story has been published on: 2023-07-02. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article.
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House Republicans plan to turn much of their focus this month to a divisive term in the corporate world: ESG.

What GOP leaders are promising is a concerted effort to roll back the years-long trend of investors and companies making environmental, social, and corporate governance (ESG) principles part of their decision-making mix.

There will be bills to change the rules that govern asset managers. Shareholder activism will be under the microscope. There are also plans to simply turn up the political heat over the Biden administration's handling of the issue.

Some are even calling July "ESG month" on Capitol Hill.

Rep. Andy Barr (R-Ky.) coined the term. He underlined during a recent Yahoo Finance interview that what he and his colleagues aim to do is at least get the ball rolling on deep reforms to a system they say is self-contradictory and counterproductive.

"The G in ESG I think makes a lot of sense to me but when the E is in conflict with the S and the S is in conflict with the G, I think that's where you see ESG as a colossal failure," he said.

The bottom line, says Barr, is the GOP belief that ESG as a whole is "a cancer within our capital markets."

Rep. Andy Barr (R-KY) participates in a House Financial Services Committee Hearing in May. (Kevin Dietsch/Getty Images)

The campaign comes even as parts of the corporate world have been backing away from ESG for months now.

After years of highlighting the principles in his annual notes, BlackRock (BLK) CEO Larry Fink now refuses to use the term at all. Another major money manager, Vanguard recently withdrew from a climate-focused consortium called the Net Zero Asset Managers initiative.

Tightening the screws

When the House of Representatives returns on July 11, lawmakers will have a host of strategies at the ready.

The Republicans' ESG Working Group, led by Rep. Bill Huizenga (R-Mich.), recently released an interim report that outlined many of the group's top issues. It's a guidepost of sorts for what is likely to be under consideration when the House Financial Services Committee gathers in a hearing tentatively set for the end of the month to finalize the various GOP bills.

A top priority will likely be efforts to tighten the screws around asset management firms focused on their outsized power in allocating resources.

Rep. Barr hails the recent voluntary moves away from ESG from BlackRock and Vanguard. But he also promises "we're going to continue to monitor whether or not these asset managers are actually living up to their commitments...and rejecting some of the more radical voices that want to use or exploit ESG to discriminate against American energy companies."

Barr is co-sponsoring a bill with Rep. Rick Allen (R-Ga.) to redefine the ESG acronym. Their Ensuring Sound Guidance Act would write into law a requirement that money managers prioritize financial returns above any non-monetary factors in investment decisions. The bill also takes aim at a recent Labor Department rule that allows  but doesn't force  fiduciaries to consider various factors in investment decisions.

House Republicans already passed a measure to register their disapproval of that Department of Labor rule on March. It led to the first veto of Joe Biden's presidency.

Speaker of the House Kevin McCarthy (R-CA) after signing a resolution passed in March that aimed to block a Biden administration rule encouraging retirement managers to consider ESG factors when making investment decisions. President Biden vetoed it. (Drew Angerer/Getty Images)

'Thorough investigations'

Another prong of the effort is set to be a focus on shareholder activism on both sides of the issue.

Conservative-leaning shareholders have pushed a record number of anti-ESG proposals at recent shareholder meetings. The number of anti-ESG resolutions on corporate ballots between January 1 through May 31 rose by more than 400% from 2020 to 2023, according to ISS Corporate Solutions, a Rockville, Md.-based provider of ESG data and analytics to corporations.

Republicans would like to encourage more of those anti-ESG measures but are also looking at ideas around stopping efforts from the other side of the issue. Climate activists often use the process to force companies to take positions on political issues.

The lawmakers have ideas that could force the SEC's hand around the rules it puts in place but they also are deeply wary of proxy advisory firms that they say hold outsized sway in what issues are put before investors.

SEC Chair Gary Gensler, center, during a House Financial Services Committee hearing in April. (Tom Williams/CQ-Roll Call, Inc via Getty Images)

Another key element of the effort will be political pressure aimed at Gary Gensler, the chair of the SEC. Gensler is currently considering new rules around ESG and has also taken heat for openness to coordinating with global ESG rules. GOP lawmakers are promising "thorough investigations" into Gensler as well as efforts to avoid what they describe as burdensome European Union regulations.

Some Republicans have also weighed in with even more aggressive efforts to defund the SEC or even restructure the agency to limit Genslers power  but the timeline for moving forward on those efforts remains unclear.

A campaign focus

Of course, the political heat around ESG is unlikely to go away anytime soon no matter what happens in Congress in the month ahead.

ESG has also emerged as a central issue on the 2024 GOP presidential campaign trail (Florida Governor Ron DeSantis likes to talk about "kneecapping" ESG). Democrats on Capitol Hill and elsewhere are also gearing up to defend the trend of including climate in investment decisions.

One key unresolved area of the debate to come is the all-important question of ESG returns. There are studies that found funds factoring in ESG have outperformed their competitors over the last 5 years. But there is also evidence that these returns may have been a mirage of sorts, with the hype around ESG leading to extra money in these sectors and driving up short-term returns.

Other research examining returns over a longer term suggests that similar or possibly lower returns are indeed possible.

At the end of the day, Barr acknowledges that its unlikely any of the bills will be enacted into law anytime soon with Democrats in control of the Senate and White House.

Nevertheless, he said the effort is worth it "even if it's an effort that takes multiple Congresses to get there."

Ben Werschkul is a Washington correspondent for Yahoo Finance. Alexis Keenan contributed reporting.

Click here for politics news related to business and money

Read the latest financial and business news from Yahoo Finance
Haitis forgotten crisis will be the focus of a visit Saturday by the United Nations Secretary-General, who is making his first trip to the crisis-ridden Caribbean nation.

Antonio Guterres is scheduled to arrive early Saturday and leave later in the day. While on the ground, he will meet with Prime Minister Ariel Henry and members of his caretaker government as well as members of the U.N.s humanitarian aid community and his new special representative in Port-au-Prince, Maria Isabel Salvador, who has been on the job since April.

A large part of the visit is to shore up support for the United Nations Integrated Office in Haiti, headed by Salvador. There are currently ongoing negotiations its future and whether its mandate, which expires this month, should be renewed. On Thursday, the U.N. Security Council in New York will debate the future of the political office, which has come under scrutiny by both Russia and China, both of which sit on the council.

As part of his support for the political offices continued presence in Haiti, Guterres visit is expected to focus largely on the volatile humanitarian and human-rights situation in Haiti, where thousands of children are increasingly caught in the crossfire and armed groups control more than half of the capital. However, the gang problem the continuing political paralysis are also expected to come up. The U.N., along with the U.S., Canada and others, have called on Haitians to work harder at finding a broad political consensus that would allow for elections and improved security.

In October the secretary-general, supported by the United States, backed the call by Haitis government for the deployment of a security force to assist the Haiti National Police. But nine months later, no country has stepped up to take the lead and those who have traditionally led interventions in Haiti  the United States, France and Canada  dont want to do so, despite recognizing the worsening crisis.

Last month, while attending the Paris Finance Summit, where he was hosted by French President Emmanuel Macron, Henry met with Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva and Rwanda President Paul Kagame. Rwanda and Brazil, which led the last U.N. peacekeeping mission into Haiti, have experienced armies that could help, but so far neither leader has publicly said if they will do so.

After leaving Haiti, Guterres will travel to Trinidad and Tobago on Sunday, where members of the 15-member Caribbean Community will be meeting Monday through Wednesday to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the regional blocs founding and to discuss issues of regional importance. Guterres has been engaging Caribbean leaders on various subjects including Haiti, climate change and better access to financing for small island nations, and is expected to be among several high-level foreign officials, including Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken, attending the gathering in Port-of-Spain.

The secretary-generals trip to Haiti comes on the heels of recent visits by U.N. humanitarian officials. The executive directors of the World Food Program and UNICEF, Cindy McCain and Catherine Russell, respectively, visited Haiti 10 days ago and the U.N.s new independent expert on human rights in Haiti, William ONeill, concluded an official 10-day visit on Thursday.

Cindy McCain, the new executive director of the U.N. World Food Program, holds up a yam while touring a farmers co-op in the GrandAnse region of Haiti on Monday, June 19, 2023. The Reseaux des Organisations de Producteurs et Productrices de la GrandAnse (ROPAGA) supplies locally produced crops to schools for WFPs school feeding program.

While McCain visited a school feeding and farmers co-operative in Jeremie, a quake-recovering city on Haitis southern peninsula, Russell met with victims of rape and healthcare providers in Port-au-Prince. Of the 5.2 million Haitians in need of humanitarian assistance, an estimated 3 million are children.

Haiti is truly becoming a forgotten crisis, Russell told journalists on Thursday at U.N. headquarters in New York. The purpose of her visit, she said, was to learn and to help galvanize attention and support for the humanitarian response in Haiti.

International solidarity and support for Haiti has largely faded away since 2010, said Russell, who was among members of a U.S. delegation that traveled to Port-au-Prince with First Lady Michelle Obama and Jill Biden following the devastating Jan. 12, 2010 earthquake that killed over 300,000 and left at least 1.5 million homeless.

Haitians on our team, theyre telling me its never been worse than this now: unprecedented hunger and malnutrition, grinding poverty and crippled economy, resurgence of cholera, and a massive insecurity that creates a deadly downward spiral to violence, Russell said. While of course flooding and earthquakes continue to remind us all just how vulnerable Haiti is to climate change and natural disasters.

All of of these are of concern to Guterres, who has been trying to get the U.N. Security Council and the international community to respond to the countrys, which has only worsened since President Jovenel Moise was assassinated two years ago.

All of his U.N. colleagues came to the same conclusion as they departed Haiti: the countrys police force, about 3,500 active duty officers, cannot tackle the gangs on its own.

The current... insecurity is truly unacceptable, Russell said ahead of Guterres visit. Women and children are dying; schools and public spaces that should be safe spaces are not. Collectively, the world is failing the Haitian people.

ONeil, who helped established the Haiti National Police in 1995 and the Magistrate School for the training of judges when he worked for the United Nations, shared similar sentiments when he met with journalists in Port-au-Prince at the conclusion of his visit this week.

Unfortunately, I found a country bruised by violence, misery, fear and suffering. The human rights situation is dramatic. All rights are violated, he said. Gangs continue to terrorize, especially in more than half of the capital Port-au-Prince, which has become a lawless zone. Women and girls continue to be raped by gangs, often collectively, to establish their control over the population.

Beyond the gang violence that rages in the capital and has pushed tens of thousands to move, land grabbing by oligarchs in the northeast has also driven thousands of peasants exposed to precariousness, ONeill added. The Haitian authorities face immense challenges. But the situation is not irreversible. Much can be done to address the structural and economic challenges that have led to the current crisis.
With hot and dry conditions across much of the West, the Fourth of July weekend carries the risk of an explosive start to wildfire season, experts warn.

From Lake Tahoe to Castle Rock, Colorado, some officials are extinguishing traditional firework shows in favor of drone light displays to celebrate Independence Day. But other communities in California, Nevada and Arizona are citing wet winters and spring months for the return of live fireworks shows.

Still, experts warn the conditions are ripe for wildfires sparked by amateur firework displays or other careless actions. The Fourth of July comes as some Southwest communities have had no rain for more than three months following a winter of above-average precipitation.

"We're entering into a really critical period for wildfire because of the hot temperatures, the lack of rainfall," said Molly Hunter, an associate research professor at University of Arizona's school of natural resources and the environment. "So that means all of the fuel, the vegetation, is really primed to burn."

Here's what you need to know:

Triple-digit temperatures heightens fire risk in Arizona

Phoenix will carry on with plans for fireworks, even though triple-digit temperatures and dry conditions usher in the holiday celebration.

On Friday, the National Weather Service reported Phoenix, Yuma and El Centro, California have been without rain for 100 days.

It has officially been 100 days with no measurable precipitation at Phoenix Sky Harbor. Yuma and El Centro have also reached the 100 day mark.



Our current dry streak will crack the top 10 longest runs if we go another 18 days without rainfall in Phoenix . #azwxpic.twitter.com/fByQdhefCz  NWS Phoenix (@NWSPhoenix) June 30, 2023

Phoenix Fire Capt. Rob McDade said a fire that sent embers onto the roofs of at least three houses underscored the risks of fireworks celebrations.

We dont know what started this, but its a great time to remind everybody this is going to be a very long, hot Fourth of July, McDade told ABC-15 in Phoenix.

Hunter, of the University of Arizona, said the lack of rainfall comes as Arizona faces its seasonal monsoon, which brings lightning and windstorms. "That sets up conditions for fires," Hunter said.

In California, the Fourth of July follows the first big heat wave since winter downpours and a cool spring spurred heavy growth of grasses and brush that are now drying. The Central Valley and Sierra Nevada foothills will be under excessive-heat warnings through the weekend. The high is forecast to reach 123 degrees in Death Valley, California, on Sunday.

Despite the rainy conditions that we saw this winter, we are expecting to see triple-digit temperatures this weekend and that will increase our wildfire risk, Acting State Fire Marshal Daniel Berlant told reporters in Sacramento.

Risk extends to Oregon, Washington

While Pacific Coast beachgoers can expect pleasant temperatures in the 70s this weekend, conditions will heat up by Monday and Tuesday in Oregon as fireworks-fueled celebrations kick off.

"By the Fourth of July, Oregon temperatures could be well into the 90s and even low 100s," said National Weather Service meteorologist Tony Fracasso.

Wildfire danger has been upgraded to moderate across most of western Oregon and to high in some regions. Even though setting off fireworks is illegal in state and federal forests, Oregon and federal officials are preparing for a busy holiday weekend.

Fireworks this weekend are a big concern especially with the increase in dry fuels," Oregon Department of Forestry spokeswoman Jessica Prakke told the Statesman Journal. "Overall we are staffed up and ready to tackle whatever fires spark.

Officials with the Siuslaw National Forest in western Oregon elevated fire risk from moderate to high and urged people to exercise caution.

The Oregon Coast Range is much drier than average for this time of year and we don't see any precipitation in the forecast, Chris Donaldson, deputy fire staff officer with Northwest Oregon Interagency Fire Management, said in a news release. Lots of folks will likely head outside over the holiday weekend. We ask that everyone is mindful to prevent human-caused fire starts and encourage others to do the same.

The weather service has extended a "red flag" warning to more than 1.7 million people as of Saturday afternoon, mainly in parts of northern Oregon and eastern Washington. Such a warning means warm temperatures, low humidity and strong winds elevate fire risk.

Hunter said people should be aware of fire risks when they are handling fireworks. But she said other activities such as using equipment such as chainsaws can start fires.

"Those big really nasty wildfires tend to be started by humans," Hunter said. "It's really, really critical for people as they are getting out this weekend to pay attention to fire restrictions."

Some Western communities to use drone shows instead of fireworks

Salt Lake City will replace fireworks with a drone show. Fireworks are still planned in most suburbs and neighboring towns, the Associated Press reported.

As temperatures rise and fire danger increases, we must be conscientious of both our air quality and the potential for wildfires, Salt Lake City Mayor Erin Mendenhall said this week.

A laser light show replaces conventional explosions again in Flagstaff, Arizona. And at Lake Tahoe, straddling the California-Nevada line, communities on the north shore will celebrate with a drone show they implemented last Fourth of July due to lingering drought and wildfire risks.

But the traditional celebration is returning to the main casino strip on Tahoes south shore where up to 100,000 visitors are expected to watch fireworks lit from barges illuminate the sky above the alpine lake.

In Colorado, Lakewood, Boulder and Castle Rock will install drone shows rather than fireworks to celebrate Independence Day, CBS News reported.

Contributing: The Associated Press, Statesman Journal

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Fireworks and heat increase wildfire risk in USA over Fourth of July
The Mexican Foreign Ministry harshly criticized a new Florida immigration law that will require more frequent mandatory ID checks at places like hospitals and by employers, as well as increase criminal penalties to being undocumented.

SB1718 will affect the human rights of thousands of Mexicans, including children, and will exacerbate hostile environments, which may lead to hate crimes and acts against the migrant community, the ministry said in a statement Saturday.

Criminalization is not the way to solve the issue of undocumented immigration.

The sweeping law went into effect on Saturday.

Other sections of the legislation make it more difficult for undocumented immigrants to receive a drivers license  and will invalidate licenses from other states legally given to undocumented immigrants.

Mexicos rebuke is a continuation of the nations ongoing feud with Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis (R). In June, the government said it was looking into legal recourse against Florida for its migrant relocation policy which saw migrants, including Mexican nationals, sent on buses and planes around the U.S.

The Florida immigration law solidifies that migrant relocation program officially in state law, and provides $12 million in state funding for it.

In May, Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador encouraged Mexicans in Florida not to vote for DeSantis, citing his anti-migrant policies.

Hopefully Hispanics in Florida will wake up and not give him one single vote, to not vote for those who persecute migrants, those who dont respect migrants, Lopez Obrador said.

The Mexican Foreign Ministry said the Florida law could have a negative impact on U.S.-Mexico relations, because it demonstrates the reluctance of some actors to find joint solutions that invite collaboration.

The government also pledged to increase the amount of resources available to Mexicans in Florida through the countrys consulate, including legal aid.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Yevgeny Prigozhin, head of the Wagner Group, leaves the Southern Military District headquarters in Rostov-on-Don, Russia, on June 24. (Anadolu Agency via Getty Images)

A little more than a week ago, Russian President Vladimir Putins hold on power appeared to be disintegrating. Rebel mercenaries were advancing on Moscow against little or no resistance. Wealthy Muscovites scrambled for tickets out of the country. A coup detat attempt seemed imminent.

And then, a perplexing reversal. After denouncing the mutiny as treason, Putin agreed to allow its leader, Yevgeny Prigozhin, to take exile in neighboring Belarus. Prigozhin, presumably realizing his mercenaries couldnt conquer Moscow without help from regular army units, submitted.

Putin, once seen as an all-powerful autocrat, seemed to have suffered a humiliating blow to his authority.

But dont count Putin out  not yet, anyway.

Thats what a growing number of Russia experts said last week as the dust settled and a modicum of perspective set in.

Putin faces a lot of problems, to be sure, said Stephen Sestanovich, a professor of international diplomacy at Columbia University. But it looks as if hes still got most of the assets he needs to address them.

People would like to find new evidence that Putin is vulnerable, but it may be overstated, warned Andrew S. Weiss of the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace. The power of wishful thinking.

Read more:Supreme Court's conservatives are solidly in control, but not quite as predictable as last year

These Russia scholars arent defending Putin, the brutality of his regime or his catastrophic decision to invade Ukraine.

Theres no better argument for term limits than Vladimir Putin, Sestanovich said.

Theyre merely noting that he has survived tough challenges before, and that after 23 years in power, hes unlikely to collapse without a fight.

Much of what happened in the bizarre standoff with Prigozhin remains murky. The boss of the Wagner Group, a so-called private military company, was rebelling against Putins order that he subject his mercenaries to the command of the regular armed forces.

The Wall Street Journal has reported that Prigozhin intended to kidnap the Russian defense minister and army chief of staff to press his case. Prigozhin may also have expected other military officers to rally to his side; when that didnt happen, he recognized his cause was lost.

The deeper mystery is why Putins intelligence services apparently didnt warn him of the plot and why other military units failed to block the mercenaries' march on Moscow.

Read more:Column: Blinken tried to build a floor under U.S.-China relations. He may have to keep doing it

By the time Prigozhins men were within 125 miles of the capital, Putin was staring down the barrel of a gun, Sestanovich said. He had an overriding goal, which was to avoid shooting in the streets of Moscow. That would have been vivid proof that he had failed.

Putins brand is stability, Sestanovich explained. What he needs above all is to convey normalcy  [and] a sense that he is back in charge.

Once the outcome was clear, officials in Moscow rushed to declare loyalty to Putin. Russias military and intelligence services launched investigations to determine what went wrong. Gen. Sergei Surovikin, the air force commander who is close to Prigozhin, is reportedly being interrogated.

Meanwhile, Putin has launched a charm offensive, staging a sudden flurry of public appearances after three years of seclusion during the COVID-19 pandemic. His propaganda machine is downplaying the mutiny.

Its even possible, Sestanovich said, that the mutiny has shocked Putin into recognizing that he had lost touch with his countrys politics.

This has been a kind of wake-up heart attack for him, Sestanovich suggested. He needs to make everybody feel that theyre still benefiting from his regime  a pretty tough challenge.

Meanwhile, his war against Ukraine has continued unabated. The high-level turmoil in Moscow had no discernible effect on the battlefields to the south. Russian units continued to defend the Ukrainian territory they have occupied behind a fearsome system of minefields and tank traps called the Surovikin line  ironically, it was built by the general under interrogation. No units were reported to have deserted or defected.

If anything, the episode appeared likely to secure the jobs of Prigozhins main targets, Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu and army chief of staff Gen. Valery Gerasimov, even though both have been widely criticized as incompetent.

Another sign of normalcy, Putin-style: The Wagner organizations recruiting office in Moscow, which closed briefly during the mutiny, reopened and told callers it was accepting new applicants, according to the BBC and Russian media outlets.

That suggests that Putin has decided not to disband Wagner, which has not only been more brutal on the battlefield than the regular army, but also more successful at attracting recruits, partly because it pays higher wages.

If Wagner were to disappear, Putins war machine could lose as many as 15,000 of its most experienced fighters.

Some Western officials have expressed impatience that Ukraines offensive isnt moving faster. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has acknowledged that progress has been slower than desired.

But Ukrainian officers have noted that finding weak spots in Russian defenses will take time, and that the fighting season runs until November.

Theres not much the United States and its allies can do to affect Putins fate in Moscow  except, perhaps, stay out of the way.

But they can keep military and economic aid flowing to Ukraine to increase its chances of success.

Putin isnt likely to fall anytime soon, but hes still more vulnerable than he was before the mutiny. This is no time to give him any breathing room.

Get the best of the Los Angeles Times politics coverage with the Essential Politics newsletter.

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
Members of the Lexington community pray for the recovery of the Smith family after they were injured in a car crash while on vacation in Hawaii.

River Bluff High School Principal Jacob Smith and his family were reportedly driving on the Big Island of Hawaii when they hydroplaned, hit another car and crashed into a lava wall, according to a post from Radius Churchs Facebook group.

The church hosted a prayer meeting on Thursday to support the family.

Smith and two of his children were injured in the crash.

Smith and his son Banks were in a hospital in Hilo with minor injuries as of Thursday, the church shared. His daughter, Bekah, was flown to an intensive care unit in Honolulu with serious injuries, according to a message sent to Radius Church Pastor John Reeves by Crystal Smith, Jacobs wife.

Jacob Smith has been with the Lexington 1 school district for about a decade and was promoted to principal at River Bluff ahead of the 2021-22 school year.

The Lexington 1 school district informed employees and students families about the accident in an email sent out Thursday morning.
CHICAGO (AP)  An Illinois businessman has been convicted of price-gouging in connection with the sale of N95 masks during the early weeks of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Krikor Topouzian, 62, of Winnetka, was convicted Thursday in federal court in Chicago following a bench trial, the Chicago Sun-Times reported. He could face up to a year in prison when he is sentenced Oct. 10.

Topouzian owned a health supply company in Skokie, Illinois, according to prosecutors. He purchased about 80,000 N95 masks in March and April of 2020 for about $5 per mask and then sold them for about $20 per mask, prosecutors said. He boasted about making as much as $80,000 per day and $1 million in a matter of weeks, prosecutors said.

The masks had been labeled scarce materials during the pandemic as part of the Defense Production Act.

Matt McQuaid, one of Topouzian's attorneys, said in an email to The Associated Press on Sunday that Topouzian plans to appeal his conviction. Toupouzian believes he did nothing wrong and that he received overwhelming support from his customers for providing the masks, McQuaid said.
DUBAI (Reuters) - Iran will refrain from sending a new ambassador to Sweden in protest over the burning of a Koran outside a mosque in Stockholm, Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian said on Sunday.

A man tore up and burned a Koran outside Stockholm's central mosque on Wednesday, the first day of the Muslim Eid al Adha holidays.

Swedish police charged the man who burned the holy book with agitation against an ethnic or national group. In a newspaper interview, he described himself as an Iraqi refugee seeking to ban it.

Iran's foreign ministry summoned Sweden's charge d'affaires on Thursday to condemn what it said was an insult to the most sacred Islamic sanctities.

"Although administrative procedures to appoint a new ambassador to Sweden have ended, the process of dispatching them has been held off due to the Swedish government's issuing of a permit to desecrate the Holy Koran," Amirabdollahian said on Twitter on Sunday.

He did not specify how long Iran would refrain from sending an embassador to Sweden.

While Swedish police have rejected several recent applications for anti-Koran demonstrations, courts have overruled those decisions, saying they infringed freedom of speech.

In its permit for Wednesday's demonstration, Swedish police said that while it "may have foreign policy consequences", the security risks and consequences linked to a Koran burning were not of such a nature that the application should be rejected.

(Reporting by Dubai Newsroom; Editing by David Goodman)
JERUSALEM (Reuters) -Israel has approved the purchase of a third squadron of F-35 stealth fighter jets in a deal worth $3 billion, the Ministry of Defense said on Sunday.

The additional 25 aircraft manufactured by Lockheed Martin will bring the number of F-35s in Israel's air force to 75, the ministry said, adding that the deal will be financed through the defense aid package Israel receives from the United States.

Israel was the first country outside the United States to acquire the F-35. In May 2018 its air force chief said that Israel was the first to use the plane in combat.

The F-35 is also known as the Joint Strike Fighter and in Israel by its Hebrew name Adir (Mighty).

Lockheed Martin and engine manufacturer Pratt & Whitney have agreed to involve Israeli defense companies in the production of aircraft components, the Israeli ministry added.

(Reporting by Ari RabinovitchEditing by Dan Williams and David Goodman)
As unsuspecting riders screamed in delight on Carowinds popular Fury 325 roller coaster over the past week, a crack began to form in one of the steel support pillars that hold the track hundreds of feet above the ground, a North Carolina womans photographs revealed Saturday.

By Friday, according to photos and videos posted online, the crack had completely severed the pillar. The park says it inspects its rides every day, but it wasnt until Friday that the Fury was closed, after the crack was reported to officials.

Inspectors from the North Carolina Department of Labors Elevator and Amusement Device Bureau plan to be at Carowinds Monday to investigate, department spokeswoman Erin Wilson said Saturday night.

Shelby resident Tiffany Collins Newton posted a photo on Facebook she said she took June 24 of the sunset behind the Fury. She also posted a closeup photo of what appears to show the crack beginning to form.

Looks like it had just started, Newton said in her Facebook post. Or am I crazy?! Someones going to be in big trouble, yikes ... 

Newton said she noticed the crack only after checking her photograph again Friday after news of the large crack spread across social media and news outlets.

NC begins Carowinds roller coaster review after rare crack found. Heres what we know.

Things happen, Newton said on Facebook. I just hope this leads to MORE inspections and extensive safety checks in the future. Thank God nothing bad came of it and no one was injured before this was caught.

A visitor at a North Carolina amusement park spotted a large crack on a roller coaster's pillar on Friday. The ride, which was billed as one of the tallest of its kind, has now been closed as crews make repairs. https://t.co/byU96e5EmL pic.twitter.com/b2lQhX4SKM  The New York Times (@nytimes) July 3, 2023

Newton didnt reply to a request for comment from the Observer Saturday.

Former paramedic Jeremy Wagner told WBTV he alerted officials Friday after spotting the crack while waiting in the Carowinds parking lot to pick up his children.

Wagner posted video of the crack on the Carowinds Fans Only Facebook page. The video shows a roller coaster car, full of riders, zooming past the area of the crack. Riders can be heard in the video screaming around a curve, seemingly unaware of the large crack in the support.

Carowinds has temporarily shut down the Fury 325, a spokeswoman said Saturday.

The parks maintenance team is conducting a thorough inspection, and the ride will remain closed until repairs have been completed, spokeswoman Courtney Weber said in an email to The Charlotte Observer.

Safety is our top priority, and we appreciate the patience and understanding of our valued guests during this process, Weber said.

As part of Carowinds comprehensive safety protocols, Fury 325 and all other rides at the park are inspected daily to ensure their proper functioning and structural integrity, Weber said.

The Fury 325 rollercoaster at Carowinds can reach speeds of up to 95 mph during its 81-degree plunge.

Weber didnt immediately reply again Saturday night when the Observer asked in an email how Carowinds inspectors missed the crack if they inspect rides every day.

In 2018, Carowinds was named among Times top 10 best amusement parks in the country, with Fury 325 recognized as the hottest ride in the park, the Observer reported at the time.

The Fury 325 can reach speeds of up to 95 mph during its 81-degree plunge, the Observer reported.

The steel roller debuted in 2015 featuring a 1.2-mile track that reaches a height of 325 feet. That made it the fifth-tallest roller coaster in the world and the tallest among coasters using a traditional chain lift hill.

The coaster travels into both North Carolina and South Carolina.

Carowinds is an amusement and theme park bordering the states.
A police killing caught on video. Protests and rioting fueled by long-simmering tensions over law enforcement treatment of minorities. Demands for accountability.

The events in France following the death of a 17-year-old shot by police in a Paris suburb are drawing parallels to the racial reckoning in the U.S. spurred by the killings of George Floyd and other people of color at the hands of law enforcement.

Despite the differences between the two countries' cultures, police forces and communities, the shooting in France and the outcry that erupted there this week laid bare how the U.S. is not alone in its struggles with systemic racism and police brutality.

These are things that happen when youre French but with foreign roots. Were not considered French, and they only look at the color of our skin, where we come from, even if we were born in France, said Tracy Ladji, an activist with SOS Racisme. Racism within the police kills, and way too many of them embrace far-right ideas so ... this has to stop.

In an editorial published this week, the French newspaper Le Monde wrote that the recent events "are reminiscent of Floyd's 2020 killing by a white Minneapolis police officer that spurred months of unrest in the U.S. and internationally, including in Paris.

This act was committed by a law enforcement officer, was filmed and broadcast almost live and involved an emblematic representative of a socially discriminated category, the newspaper wrote.

The French teen, identified only as Nahel, was shot during a traffic stop Tuesday in the Paris suburb of Nanterre. Video showed two officers at the window of the car, one with his gun pointed at the driver. As the teenager pulled forward, the officer fired once through the windshield.

Nahels grandmother, who was not identified by name, told Algerian television Ennahar TV that her family has roots in Algeria.

Preliminary charges of voluntary homicide were filed against the officer accused of pulling the trigger, though that has done little to quell the rioting that has spread across the country and led to hundreds of arrests. The officer said he feared he and his colleague or someone else could be hit by the car as Nahel attempted to flee, a prosecutor has said.

Officials have not disclosed the race of the officer. His lawyer said he did what he thought was necessary in the moment. Speaking on French TV channel BFMTV, the lawyer said the officer is devastated," adding that "he really didnt want to kill.

Nahels mother, identified only as Mounia M., told France 5 television shes not angry at the police in general. She's angry at the officer who killed her only child.

He saw an Arab-looking little kid. He wanted to take his life, she said.

Police shootings in France are significantly less common than in the U.S. but have been on the rise since 2017. Several experts believe that correlates with a law loosening restrictions on when officers can use lethal force against drivers after a series of terrorist attacks using vehicles.

Officers can shoot at a vehicle when a driver fails to comply with an order and when a driver's actions are likely to endanger their lives or those of others. French police have also been regularly criticized for their violent tactics.

Unlike the U.S., France does not keep any data on race and ethnicity as part of its doctrine of colorblind universalism  an approach purporting to see everyone as equal citizens. Critics say that doctrine has masked generations of systemic racism.

I cant think of a country in Europe that has more longstanding or pernicious problems of police racism, brutality and impunity, Paul Hirschfield, director of the criminal justice program at Rutgers University, said of France. Hirschfield has published multiple papers comparing policing practices and killings in America to those in other countries.

Experts said the video of the shooting  which appeared to contradict initial statements from police that the teen was driving toward the officer  pushed leaders to quickly condemn the killing. French President Emmanuel Macron called the shooting inexcusable even before charges were filed against the officer.

Thats nothing new for Americans, who even before the excruciating footage of George Floyds death under a Minneapolis police officers knee had seen many videos of violent police encounters that were often taken by witnesses and at times contradicted the initial statements of police.

Ive never seen a case where the interior minister was so quick to condemn a shooting. In previous killings, there was unrest, but there was no video. It changes everything, Hirschfield said.

Police in France typically go through training that runs for about 10 months, which is long compared with many U.S. cities, but one of the shortest training requirements in Europe.

However, experts said they did not believe French police receive training that is equivalent to the implicit bias training required of many U.S. police officers as an effort to improve policing in diverse communities, though many U.S. critics have questioned the training's effectiveness.

France and other European countries have growing African, Arab and Asian populations.

If you are in a country with a colonial past, it carries a stigma. And if that is painful enough that you cant handle having that conversation about race, of course you arent going to have relevant training for officers, Stacie Keesee, co-founder of the Center for Policing Equity, who serves on the United Nations International Expert Mechanism to Advance Racial Justice and Equality in Law Enforcement.

Bertrand Cavallier, the former commander of Frances national gendarmerie training school, said French law enforcement should not be judged by the actions of one officer.

This is the case of a police officer who made a mistake and didnt have to do it. But he was arrested, and that, I think, should be a clear message concerning the will of the government, he said.

___

Associated Press writers Alex Turnbull and Jeffrey Schaeffer in Nanterre, France, contributed to this report.
PICKENS, S.C. (AP)  Former President Donald Trump marked a return to the large-scale rallies of his previous presidential campaigns, speaking to a massive crowd gathered in the streets of a small South Carolina city on a blazing summer weekend.

There's nowhere else I'd rather be to kick off the Fourth of July weekend than right here on Main Street, with thousands of hardworking South Carolina patriots who believe in God, family and country, Trump said Saturday to a roaring crowd in downtown Pickens as temperatures climbed into the 90s.

Randal J. Beach, the police chief in the conservative Upstate community of about 3,400 residents, told The Associated Press on Sunday that his estimates of the crowd were somewhere between 50-55,000.

The heavily Republican area is a popular one for GOP hopefuls as they aim to attract support for South Carolina's first-in-the-South presidential primary. In recent months, other candidates including Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, former Vice President Mike Pence and biotech entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy have all held events in the Upstate, as well as the two South Carolinians in the race: former Gov. Nikki Haley and Sen. Tim Scott.

But none drew an audience like Trump, whose appearance effectively shuttered Pickens' quintessential Southern downtown.

Contrasted with his 2016 and 2020 campaigns, which drew thousands to rallies in states across the country, Trump's 2024 effort has been markedly different. Earlier this year, instead of addressing voters in a gymnasium or airplane hangar, Trump held his first South Carolina campaign event inside the Statehouse in Columbia, rolling out his state leadership team at an invitation-only gathering in an ornate lobby between the House and Senate chambers.

In other states, the former president has focused his efforts on smaller events, including a series of speeches before state party organizations, as he works to bolster his standing with delegates and local officials.

This was only Trump's second large rally of the 2024 campaign. In March, he rallied in Waco, Texas, disparaging the prosecutors then investigating him on hush-money charges  on which he was later indicted  and predicting his vindication. A planned outdoor rally in Iowa in May was canceled due to tornado warnings.

The rallies are also expensive to put on, although Trump has continued to bring in millions in fundraising, after both the New York indictment and also federal charges related to his retention of classified documents after leaving the White House. Last month, senior Trump aide Chris LaCivita told the conservative Ruthless podcast that the rallies are half a million bucks a pop.

Trump's campaign has also leaned in on unannounced stops at restaurants  such as at a celebrated Philadelphia cheesesteak restaurant Friday or Versailles, a famous Cuban eatery in Miami  in a bid to showcase his strong appeal among supporters despite the multiple legal challenges.

In a broad GOP field that has continued to grow, Trump's campaign has pointed to polls showing him with a considerable lead over his rivals, despite a campaign schedule that is far less robust than many of his rivals. He has also given frequent media interviews and appeared at many of the multi-candidate events of the primary season so far, including this past week's Moms for Liberty gathering in Philadelphia.

Still, the chance to see the former president in person drew thousands from across the Southeast for Saturday's rally, with attendees beginning to line up the night before, and coming from as far as Florida. Greg Pressley and his wife, Robin, said they drove more than three hours from their home in eastern Tennessee to see the candidate they've supported since his first run in 2016.

Donald Trump's the best president in history, Greg Pressley said. I love his policies. I love the man. I'm here to support him getting back to where he needs to be, to begin with.

Shelley Fox of Spartanburg, who said she has supported Trump since he entered the 2016 race, said she didn't feel it necessary to even think about any other candidates for next year's election.

I'd write him in, she said, when asked what she would do if forced to consider another hopeful. No question  I'd write him in.

___

Meg Kinnard can be reached at http://twitter.com/MegKinnardAP
KYIV (Reuters) - Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy warned on Saturday that a "serious threat" remained at the Russian-occupied Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant and said Russia was "technically ready" to provoke a localized explosion at the facility.

Zelenskiy cited Ukrainian intelligence as the source of his information.

"There is a serious threat because Russia is technically ready to provoke a local explosion at the station, which could lead to a (radiation) release," Zelenskiy told a news conference alongside visiting Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez.

He gave no further details. Ukrainian military intelligence has previously said Russian troops had mined the plant.

Zelenskiy called for greater international attention to the Zaporizhzhia plant, Europe's largest civil nuclear facility, and urged sanctions on Russia's state nuclear company Rosatom.

Zelenskiy later held a meeting of the top military command and nuclear power officials at another of Ukraine's five nuclear plants, in Rivne, in the northwest of the country.

"The key issues discussed were the security of our northern regions and our measures to strengthen them," Zelenskiy said in his nightly video address, standing in front of the Rivne plant.

Zelenkiy's trip to Rivne was a rare journey for the Ukraine leader to an area relatively far from the fighting. But it is near the border with Belarus, where Russia's Wagner mercenaries have a deal to go after last week's aborted uprising. Their leader Yevgeny Prigozhin was offered the option of resettling in Belarus, on Ukraine's northern border.

Energoatom, Ukraine's nuclear power authority, said on Friday it had conducted two days of exercises simulating the effects of an attack on the Zaporizhzhia plant.

Russia's U.N. ambassador, Vassily Nebenzia, issued a statement describing the Ukrainian allegations as "simply preposterous". Russia has dismissed any suggestion it plans to attack or sabotage the Zaporizhzhia plant. Each side accuses the other of shelling near the facility.

Sanchez said his visit to the Ukrainian capital was meant to underscore his support for Ukraine as Spain kicks off the six-month rotating EU presidency. Spain would provide an additional 55 million euro ($60 million) financial package for Ukraine to help the economy and small businesses, he said.

The Zaporizhzhia plant, located near the city of Enerhodar in southern Ukraine, has been occupied by Russia since shortly after Moscow's invasion in February 2022.

Ukraine, then part of the Soviet Union, suffered the world's worst nuclear accident in 1986, when clouds of radioactive material spread across much of Europe after an explosion and fire at the Chornobyl nuclear power plant.

(Reporting by Olena Harmash; Editing by Tom Balmforth, David Holmes, Ron Popeski and David Gregorio)
PORT-AU-PRINCE, Haiti (AP)  U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres visited Haiti on Saturday and again called on foreign governments with strong security forces to help the struggling country fight a surge in gang violence.

The appeal was made after Guterres met with Prime Minister Ariel Henry, civil society leaders, U.N. staff and the heads of various political parties during his one-day trip.

Now is not the time to forget Haiti or weaken our solidarity with its people, he said.

Guterres met with reporters at Haitis international airport in Port-au-Prince, who pressed him on whether an international security force would be deployed as requested by the prime minister last October.

Guterres said he spoke about the issue with Henry, as well as the need to hold credible elections.

I am not here to tell Haitians what to do. I am here to listen to them and to encourage them to build consensus as broadly as possible to move the transition process forward, he said.

Henry, who has been running the country since the July 2021 assassination of President Jovenel Moise, has been under pressure to hold elections. But experts have noted it is impossible to do so given the current level of violence in the country, with gangs controlling an estimated 80% of the capital.

There are no democratically elected institutions left in Haiti, with the country failing to hold legislative elections since October 2019.

Haiti must return to democratic order as soon as possible, Guterres said.

He also said Haiti urgently needs more humanitarian aid as poverty deepens and starvation cases spike. Gangs are preventing the movement of goods and people and controlling access to water, food and health care as civilians attempt to fight back via a violent uprising.

I felt all the exhaustion of a population that has been facing for too long a cascade of crises and unsustainable living conditions, Guterres said. One in two people in Haiti live in extreme poverty, face hunger and lack regular access to drinking water.

Guterres visit came just days after the U.N.s human rights expert in Haiti visited the country and also called for an international security force and a weapons embargo.

Guterres is scheduled to attend a summit Sunday in Trinidad and Tobago held by Caricom, a Caribbean trade bloc.

___

Associated Press writer Danica Coto in San Juan, Puerto Rico, contributed to this report.
Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.) on Sunday warned of an authoritarian expansion of power by the Supreme Court after it released several controversial opinions in its last week of the term.

The courts, if they were to proceed without any check on their power, without any balance on their power, then we will start to see an undemocratic and, frankly, dangerous authoritarian expansion of power in the Supreme Court, Ocasio-Cortez said on CNNs State of the Union.

Which is what we are seeing now, from the overturning of abortion rights to the ruling that discrimination and, frankly, stripping the full personhood and dignity of LGBTQ people in the United States.  These are the types of rulings that signal a dangerous creep towards authoritarianism and centralization of power in the court, the New York Democrat said.

The Supreme Court last week released opinions on several landmark decisions that included blows to affirmative action programs in college admissions, President Bidens student debt relief program, and LGBTQ rights  rulings Republicans have largely lauded and Democrats have decried.

Ocasio-Cortez, a frequent critic of the conservative court, on Sunday argued that justices are expanding their role into acting as though they are Congress itself, noting recent controversies surrounding ethics standards and arguing justices power should be limited.

And that, I believe, is an expansion of power that we really must be focusing on: the danger of this court and the abuse of power in this court, particularly  as it is related to the entanglements around conflicts of interest as well, Ocasio-Cortez said.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Former Vice President Mike Pence, who is running for the presidency in 2024 as a Republican, was pressed to comment in an interview aired Sunday on the Supreme Courts decision to exempt military academies from its ruling on affirmative action.

Why did the court carve out the military academies? This ruling does not apply to  to our military academies. As Justice [Ketanji Brown] Jackson said, one standard for the board room, another standard for the bunker. Doesnt she have a case  a point there? host Jon Karl asked Pence on ABCs This Week.

Pence said this probably wont be the first time that he disagrees with the courts newest justice, and argued the American military has long been an instrument of advancing equality since virtually the founding of this country.

I mean, there were African American officers in New England regiments in the Revolutionary War that well be celebrating on Independence Day, the former vice president said. So, I think the militarys been a place where the doors have been open for a long time  for minorities and theyve distinguished themselves with sacrifices and service for generations, and I know they always will.

The Supreme Court last week decided to severely limit the use of race as a factor in college admissions, effectively ending affirmative action programs. The move has drawn starkly different reactions from either side of the political aisle.

Speaking broadly of the ruling, Pence said there was a time for affirmative action, but those days are over.

The Supreme Courts majority sparked outcry from liberals and others opposing the decision, which included an exemption for military academies in a footnote that says the court did not address the issue in light of the potentially distinct interests that military academies may present.

Karl, in the interview with Pence, pointed out that the Supreme Courts decision specifically does not apply to military academies, letting the institutions use race as a factor in admissions. If you agree that this is the way it should be  for universities across the country, shouldnt it also apply to the military academies? Why the carveout? Karl asked.

Pence said hed refer the ABC programs viewers to the decision itself.

But I just have to tell you, I am so pleased to see the Supreme Court, so strengthened by three of the conservative justices that we appointed, this week live up to, in this case, and in other critical cases  a vision for this country that is really grounded in freedom and in the equality of opportunity for every American, Pence said.

The 2024 White House contender added hes very confident the military will continue to be that agent of opportunity for Americans of every background that want to put on the uniform of the United States.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Russell Crowe has addressed rumours he will be in Gladiator 2 after being spotted near the films set.

The Kiwi actor played Maximus Decimus Meridius in Ridley Scotts 2000 Best Picture winner, a sequel to which is currently being filmed.

There have been several reports that Crowe will feature in the film as a cameo, heightened by the actors recent presence in Malta, where the film is being shot.

Crowe has bluntly claimed he will not be in the film as his character died in the original, and he reiterated this during an appearance at the Czech film festival in Karlovy Vary.

In fact, Crowe said he was in Malta recently for another reason entirely: he was performing a concert with his band, Indoor Garden Party.

Crowe did tell outlets, including Deadline, he got nostalgic, though, when he spotted the films set, which he said was identical to the one built back in the late 19990s for the original Gladiator.

I looked across to Fort Ricasoli, and the Colosseums been built there again, just like it was in 1999, he said, adding: I tell you, man, it was like a time warp  for a couple of seconds there, I was like, What year is this? Where are we?

I dont know what I was expecting, but I wasnt expecting that that they would rebuild the Colosseum in the exact same place, he said.

Addressing the sequel, which is set to star Paul Mescal as Lucius, the son of Connie Nielsens Lucilla and the nephew of Commodus (Joaquin Phoenix), Crowe said: I dont know anything about the cast, I dont know anything about the plot. Well, I wouldnt, would I? Cause Im dead!

But I just know that whoevers involved in that movie, if Ridley has decided to do a second part of that story 24 years later, he will have really strong reasons to do so. And its very typical of him, really, to rethink everything that hes done and know how to make it better.

Russell Crowe was recently spotted near Gladiator 2 set (Getty Images)

Crowe continued: So, I would say that, now, I couldnt think of that movie being anything less than absolutely spectacular.

The actor recalled a conversation: he had with Scott, whom hes worked with five times, on the production of their last film.

We were in a valley looking up at a castle that hed had built, and we both knew that, with the advent of the comic-book tentpole movies, it was highly likely to be the last time that we were going to be on a set together with that level of physical production, Crowe said, stating: And thats the way it actually worked out.

He said that, based on what he saw in Malta, Scott is getting to go back into that same level of physical production one more time, which he said was fantastic.

We have a similar energy, really, Ridley and I, he said. We know its all about the movie  everything that we do on a daily basis is just about making the movie  and one of these days well get to do another one. Hopefully. Well see.

Crowe recently admitted to being slightly jealous of Mescal after he was cast as the lead in Gladiator 2. The film will also star Nielsen, Denzel Washington, Pedro Pascal and Stranger Things breakout Joseph Quinn.
Members of the Supreme Court sit for a new group portrait following the addition of Associate Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson, at the Supreme Court building in Washington, Oct. 7, 2022. Bottom row, from left, Associate Justice Sonia Sotomayor, Associate Justice Clarence Thomas, Chief Justice of the United States John Roberts, Associate Justice Samuel Alito, and Associate Justice Elena Kagan. Top row, from left, Associate Justice Amy Coney Barrett, Associate Justice Neil Gorsuch, Associate Justice Brett Kavanaugh, and Associate Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson. (J. Scott Applewhite/AP)

The recent rulings of the conservative-dominated Supreme Court are set to take center stage in the battle over the Senate majority, giving Democrats a better chance to keep control of the upper chamber despite President Bidens slumping approval numbers.

astL weeks decisions by the court rejecting Bidens student loan forgiveness plan, invalidating university affirmative action policies and allowing small business owners to oppose giving services for same-sex marriages give Democrats an opportunity to play offense.

Democratic candidates can make a straightforward argument on the campaign trail that the courts 6-3 conservative majority, which last year struck down Roe v. Wade and the constitutional right to an abortion, is the direct result of Republican control of the Senate.

No person played a greater role in shaping todays court than Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.), who held the seat of late conservative Justice Antonin Scalia vacant for more than a year in 2016 to prevent then-President Barrack Obama from putting a third justice on the high court.

McConnell proved pivotal four years later when he expedited the confirmation of conservative Justice Amy Coney Barrett through the Senate in the weeks before the 2020 presidential election, flipping the seat long held by late liberal Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg.

Senate GOP Leader Mitch McConnell. (Mariam Zuhaib/AP)

Those two seats filled by conservative Justice Neil Gorsuch and Barrett made the difference between what would have been a 5-4 Democratic majority on the court and todays 6-3 conservative majority.

Those maneuvers are reaping huge legal victories for religious and fiscal conservatives on a range of hot-button issues related to abortion, debt forgiveness, racial justice and gay rights.

Democrats say the decisions will put the court itself in the spotlight in next years election and help mobilize their voters in Senate battleground states across the country.

Democrats were already fired up because of Roe v. Wade, said Democratic pollster Celinda Lake. It will mobilize Democrats, particularly Democratic younger women who are already turning out and registering in record numbers.

This is a pattern which just shows a Supreme Court that is taking away our freedoms and moving the country backward and Democrats are very, very strongly engaged and women are very strongly engaged by that narrative, she said.

Democrats say each of the courts controversial decisions will mobilize multiple key constituencies in Senate battlegrounds ranging from younger women and minorities to LGBTQ voters and people with student loan debts.

This is a pattern which just shows a Supreme Court that is taking away our freedoms and moving the country backward and Democrats are very, very strongly engaged and women are very strongly engaged by that narrative.Democratic pollster Celinda Lake

The court in Dobbs v. Jackson Womens Health Organization last year overturned the right to an abortion.

This month, in Students for Fair Admissions v. Harvard, the six conservative justices struck down affirmative action policies at Harvard and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

In Biden v. Nebraska, the court in a decision released Friday rejected Bidens $400 billion student debt forgiveness plan.

Also on Friday, the conservative majority ruled in 303 Creative LLC v. Elenis to uphold a businesswomans right to deny services to same-sex couples because of religious convictions.

If you take this whole record, you have a [get out the vote] plan for the Democrats, said Lake, who argued the courts recent decision in Glacier Northwest v. International Brotherhood of Teamsters, which ruled a company could sue a union for striking if it hurts their business, would also mobilize union-affiliated voters.

The labor case was decided 8-1 in favor of a concrete company with liberal justice Ketanji Brown Jackson offering the only dissenting vote.

Steve Jarding, a Democratic strategist who previously served as an advisor to the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee, said the courts recent decisions are changing decades of precedent impacting millions of Americans.

He said if the Democrats use it right as an issue they can move voters to support Senate Democrats in key races.

This is the court that Republicans wanted, that Republicans gave America and now theyre dismantling the social fabric of the country.Democratic strategist Steve Jarding

This is the court that Republicans wanted, that Republicans gave America and now theyre dismantling the social fabric of the country, he said. The public doesnt normally pay attention to the court but with these rulings this goes beyond the court. This is a court the Republicans packed.

He noted the courts decisions are not only dramatic but in some cases they reversed decades of established precedent, altering a national landscape that voters had become accustomed to over a half-century.

The courts decision on affirmative action overturned a precedent set in 1978 in Regents of University of California v. Bakke. Last years Dobbs decision overturned the precedent Roe v. Wade established in 1973.

Jarding said voters who dont like the court fundamentally changing the fabric of America can express outrage about it at the ballot box.

Ive never in my lifetime seen so many dramatic decisions come down in such a short period of time and that makes this a legitimate political concern, he added.

Senate Republicans, however, are not shying away from the courts decisions on affirmative action and student debt.

McConnell hailed both rulings as big wins. He praised the court for making clear that colleges may not continue discriminating against bright and ambitious students based on the color of their skin and derided Bidens student debt forgiveness plan as socialism.

The president of the United States cannot hijack twenty-year-old emergency powers to pad the pockets of his high-earning base and make suckers out of working families who choose not to take on student debt, he said.

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer. (Kevin Lamarque/Reuters)

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) attacked the decisions, calling the ruling on affirmative action a giant roadblock on the march toward racial justice and the opinion on student debt relief disappointing and cruel.

Philip Letsou, a spokesman for the National Republican Senatorial Committee, said Democratic incumbents running in states that voted for former President Trump in 2016 and 2020 will have a tough time running against the court.

If Joe Manchin, Jon Tester, and Sherrod Brown want to run on supporting Joe Bidens illegal student loan bailout, racial discrimination in college admissions, and painful abortions up to the ninth month of pregnancy, we welcome their decision, he said.

Attacking Brett Kavanaugh backfired on Senate Democrats spectacularly in 2018, and it will backfire again if Democrats make attacking the Supreme Court their campaign pitch for 2024, Letsou added, noting that incumbent Democratic Sens. Claire McCaskill (R-Mo.), Joe Donnelly (D-Ind.) and Bill Nelson (D-Fla.) lost their re-election bids after Senate Democrats went to war against Trumps second nominee to the Supreme Court.

Whit Ayres, a prominent Republican pollster, said the courts decision to overturn the right to an abortion will have the most impact on the 2024 election and questioned whether decisions on student debt relief and affirmative action will move the needle much in Senate battlegrounds.

The way it would have an effect is through the abortion ruling, he said of the courts salience as a political issue next year. This affirmative action ruling is fully consistent with majority public opinion and thats not going to be an issue.

Its hard to make the Supreme Court itself an issue unless youre talking about a presidential campaign with a new president whos going to nominate justices. The way it becomes an issue is through the abortion ruling, he said.

In 2022, that really stimulated Democratic turnout down the ballot, he said.

Ayres said the decision on student loan forgiveness could sway voters in certain places but asserted there are as many arguments against providing that relief as there are for it, especially among people who had student loans and paid them off and are wondering where the fairness is.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Republican Sen. Lindsey Graham faced an onslaught of boos as he stumped for former President Donald Trump at a rally in his home state of South Carolina Saturday, with supporters giving him a thumbs down as he left the stage.

"Let me tell you how you win an election, folks," Graham told the crowd of Trump supporters in Pickens, South Carolina. "You get people together that don't agree all of the time to agree on the most important things."

"My hope is we can bring this party together 'cause he's gonna be our nominee," Graham continued amid a stream of soft booing from many in attendance. "He will be the nominee of the Republican Party, and let me tell you what's at stake. If they win in 2024, they're gonna pack the Supreme Court. So we need to get off our butts and make sure Donald Trump wins. If they win in 2024 Puerto Rico and D.C. will be states. Four Democrats for the rest of our lifetime. They'll abolish the electoral college, they will turn this nation upside down."

GRAHAM: US ATTORNEY IN CHARGE OF HUNTER PROBE WAS BRIEFED ON FBI FORM DETAILING JOE BIDEN BRIBERY ACCUSATIONS

"There's one person running for president as a Republican that has the ability to change this country. It is Donald J. Trump. He did it once, he can do it again," he said. "I'm gonna help him all over this country, and folks, I am from South Carolina. He is gonna win South Carolina. This is the pathway to the presidency. God bless you all. God bless President Trump. God bless America."

Immediately after his remarks, Graham paced to the left of the stage and exited among a roaring crowd of disgruntled Trump supporters who booed at the senator and gave him a thumbs down.

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Graham, who spoke for about five minutes at the rally, was also booed when first took stage.

Once at the podium, Graham paused as the booing drowned out what he had to say.

"Welcome to Pickens.  Thanks a bunch," he said. "Well, you wanna find something in common?"

Then-President Donald Trump smiles as he stands alongside Sen. Lindsey Graham during a Keep America Great campaign rally in North Charleston, South Carolina, on February 28, 2020.

As the booing continued, Graham told the crowd: "Calm down for just a second. I think you'll like this. Pickens County has more Medal of Honor winners per capita than any place in the nation. I was born in this county. I live 15 miles down the road."

"This is a place where people pay the taxes, fight the wars and tell you what they believe," Graham said over the booing. "How many of you believe that Donald Trump was a great president?"

GRASSLEY, GRAHAM DEMAND FBI TURN OVER KEY DOCUMENT LINKED TO BIDEN ALLEGATIONS

The crowd cheered at Graham's remarks about Trump, but went right back to shouting down the senator and his remarks.

"Without Donald Trump, there are no Donald Trump policies," Graham said. "He did something nobody else could do."

Former President Donald Trump shakes hands with Sen. Lindsey Graham, R-S.C., as he arrives onstage to speak at the Faith and Freedom Road to Majority conference at the Washington Hilton on June 24, 2023, in Washington, DC.

Taking the stage a short time after Graham's comments, Trump attempted to rally support for the senator, telling his supporters, "We're gonna love him."

Amid additional booing from the crowd, Trump said, "I know, it's half-and-half. But when I need some of those liberal votes, he's always there to help me get 'em, okay?"

"We got some pretty liberal people, but he's good," Trump added of Graham. "We know the good ones. We know the bad ones, too."

Trump referenced Graham at a later point in the rally and was met with another round of booing. "I'm gonna have to work on these people," Trump said. He also offered to campaign for Graham when he is up for re-election.

Graham, who's represented South Carolina in the U.S. Senate since 2003, has faced criticism from Trump supporters in recent years for his positions on a number of issues.

In 2021, as he waited to board a flight from the Reagan National Airport in Washington, D.C., Graham was swarmed by roughly a dozen people who called him a "traitor" over his comments about Trump following the 2020 presidential election.

"You know it was rigged," the individuals shouted to Graham at the time.

Graham's position on the Russia-Ukraine war, which has been ongoing for well over a year, has also not been popular among Trump supporters and hardcore conservatives.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy meets with Sen. Richard Blumenthal, D-Conn., and Lindsey Graham, R-S.C., in Kyiv, Ukraine

An ardent supporter of Ukraine's defensive efforts, Graham traveled with Democratic Sen. Richard Blumenthal of Connecticut to Kyiv last summer.

During the meeting on the 134th day of the war, Zelenskyy, according to his office, "called on senators to back the decision on providing Ukraine with modern air defense systems."

"First of all, we appeal to you so that the Congress supports Ukraine in the matter of supplying modern air defense systems," Zelenskyy said. "We must ensure such a level of sky security that our people are not afraid to live in Ukraine."

Fox News' Greg Norman contributed to this report.
Donald Trump reportedly tried to push Arizona Governor Doug Ducey to flip the state's 2020 election results in his favour, according to a new report.

The latest allegations against Mr Trump claim the former president wanted Mr Ducey to find enough votes to overturn his loss, according to The Washington Post.

Anonymous sources, "familiar" with the call, toldThe Post that the former president also tasked his vice president Mike Pence with calling Mr Ducey and pushing him to find evidence back Mr Trump's false claims of voter fraud.

Mr Pence reportedly called Mr Ducey several times to discuss the election but did not follow up on Mr Trump's alleged demands.

The Independent has contacted Mr Trump and Governor Ducey for comment.

Mr Ducey is no longer in office, and offered a brief statement toThe Post.

This is neither new nor is it news to anyone following this issue the last two years, Daniel Scarpinato, a spokesman for Mr Ducey, said in a statement. Governor Ducey defended the results of Arizonas 2020 election, he certified the election, and he made it clear that the certification provided a trigger for credible complaints backed by evidence to be brought forward. None were ever brought forward. The Governor stands by his action to certify the election and considers the issue to be in the rear view mirror.

A Trump spokesperson claimed toThe Post that the "2020 Presidential election was rigged and stolen," and insisted the former president should be praised for "doing the right thing  working to make sure that all the fraud was investigated and dealt with".

No election fraud claims have ever been substantiated with evidence.

Mr Trumps calls were reportedly made on 30 November 2020, while Mr Ducey was signing documents to certify the 2020 election results during a live-streamed video ceremony.

Those in proximity to Gov. Ducey heard his cellphone play a ringtone-version of "Hail to the Chief," the song traditionally associated with the US President.

Mr Ducey did not take the call during the ceremony.

Former Arizona Governor Doug Ducey was reportedly pressured by Donald Trump to find votes in order to overturn the states 2020 presidential election results (Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.)

A donor who dined with Mr Ducey earlier this year said the former governor was surprised that special counsel Jack Smith did not attempt to reach out to him concerning the phone calls between himself, Mr Trump, and Mr Pence.

Mr Smith is leading the Justice Department's investigation into Mr Trump's attempts to overturn the 2020 election.

The donor spoke to the Washington Post on condition of anonymity.

It is unclear if Mr Smith's office has reached out to Mr Ducey since the diner met with the former governor.

The Washington Post spoke with two individuals familiar with the investigation who said Mr Smith has questioned witnesses about Mr Trump's calls to governors including Mr Ducey.

Mr Trump made similar calls to election officials in Michigan and Georgia. One of those calls was made on 2 January, 2021 to Georgia Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger. He reportedly asked Mr Raffensperger to find votes to overturn the state's election result.

The relationship between Mr Ducey and Mr Trump turned icy after the governor certified Arizonas election results which declared Joe Biden as president.

Why is he rushing to put a Democrat in office, especially when so many horrible things concerning voter fraud are being revealed at the hearing going on right now," Mr Trump said in a social media post after Mr Ducey certified the election.

Mr Trump claimed on 5 December that Mr Ducey and Georgia Governor Brian Kemp "fight harder against us than do the Radical Left Dems".

A week later, he dubbed them both RINOs  Republicans in name only.
A Place for All Conservatives to Speak Their Mind.
By Ted Hesson and Dave Graham

WASHINGTON/MEXICO CITY (Reuters) - U.S. and Mexican officials are discussing a new U.S. refugee program for some non-Mexican asylum seekers waiting in Mexico, four sources said, part of President Joe Biden's attempts to create more legal avenues for migration.

The program would likely be open to Cuban, Haitian, Nicaraguan and Venezuelan refugees in Mexico, the sources said. Migrants would need to show they were in Mexico before June 6 to qualify, one of the sources said.

The sources - a U.S. official, a Mexican official and two people familiar with the matter who all spoke on condition of anonymity - stressed that the issue remained under discussion and no final decisions had been made. It was not clear how many people might benefit from such a program.

Hundreds of thousands of migrants from those four nations have passed through Mexico en route to the U.S. during political and economic upheaval in recent years, straining resources in both countries and putting political pressure on Biden, a Democrat seeking reelection in 2024.

The plan under discussion would allow qualifying migrants approved for refugee status to enter via the U.S. refugee resettlement program, which is only available to applicants abroad, the sources said. Unlike most migrants who claim asylum after entering the U.S., refugees receive immediate work authorization and government benefits such as housing and employment assistance.

Refugees using the U.S. resettlement program can apply to become permanent residents within one year, offering more stability than other options. To be approved, they must establish that they face persecution due to race, religion, nationality, membership in a particular social group or political opinion.

In a statement, Mexico's foreign ministry said it is in constant communication with the U.S. about expanding labor mobility and refugee protections. To that end, it said it had held discussions over various programs and policies, while always safeguarding national sovereignty.

However, Mexico has not reached any agreement with the U.S., the ministry added.

BROADER BIDEN MIGRANT STRATEGY

The Biden administration has opened up new ways for migrants to enter the U.S. legally as part of a broader strategy to discourage people from crossing the U.S.-Mexico border illegally.

Migrants waiting in Mexico can apply for U.S. entry on a smartphone app and later request asylum, but slots on the app fill up quickly. Under another Biden program, Cubans, Haitians, Nicaraguans and Venezuelans can request to enter the U.S. by air if they have U.S. sponsors.

But those routes do not provide the same benefits available to refugees or a direct path to permanent residence and eventual citizenship.

In April, the Biden administration said it aimed to admit 40,000 refugees from Latin America and the Caribbean in fiscal years 2023 and 2024, doubling a previous target. As of May 31, about 3,400 had arrived, showing that the pace would need to greatly accelerate to reach the goal.

Some refugee backers are concerned the focus on Latin America could slow processing from other parts of the world, including of refugees already waiting for approval.

The initiative under discussion would be a "Priority Two" refugee program, the sources said, similar to one opened for Afghans in 2021. Such programs allow certain groups of people to apply for refugee status directly without needing a referral from the United Nations.

Despite the discussions, Mexico has significant concerns, the Mexican official said.

If the program encourages more migrants to enter Mexico, it could tax the country's already-strained resources for dealing with migrants, the official said.

One significant concern for Mexico is where the migrants would be processed, the official said.

If the U.S. used its existing consular facilities, the plan could work, but any new U.S. center in Mexico for the purpose would be politically fraught, the official added.

Pending decisions will also require the participation of Mexicos incoming foreign minister Alicia Barcena, who is yet to be confirmed to the post, the official said.

(Reporting by Ted Hesson in Washington and Dave Graham in Mexico City; Additional reporting by Daina Beth Solomon in Mexico City and Kristina Cooke in San Francisco; Editing by Mica Rosenberg, Mary Milliken and Grant McCool)
Eight NCP legislators also sworn in as ministers at the ceremony held at Raj Bhavan in Mumbai

Mumbai: Maharashtra yet again witnessed a political earthquake as senior NCP leader Ajit Pawar on Sunday joined the Eknath Shinde government as a deputy chief minister. The dramatic development could spell trouble for his uncle and NCP supremo Sharad Pawar, as Ajit has also staked claim over the party and the symbol as well.

Eight NCP legislators were also sworn in as ministers at the ceremony held at Raj Bhavan in Mumbai. Ajit, who was the Leader of the Opposition in the Maharashtra Vidhan Sabha, said that all party MLAs and MPs are with him and that it is time for the party to get a new leadership. There are reports that 36 of the 53 NCP MLAs are supporting him.

When asked about the number of MLAs with him, Ajit said he has the backing of all MLAs. He even claimed that he took the decision with the blessings of the "party seniors". As per a letter given to the Raj Bhavan, 40 MLAs and six MLCs have supported Ajit.

"The NCP was formed in 1999. A lot of things have happened in the last 24 years. Now the time has come for the new leadership in the party," Ajit said.

Chhagan Bhujbal, who was also sworn in as a minister with Ajit, said that the NCP chief had told them Mr Modi will be reelected as the PM in 2024. "Pawar saheb himself said that Mr Modi is coming back as the Prime Minister and as a positive gesture, we have decided to come with this government for development. We have criticised the PM in the past, but there is no denial of the good work he has done in the past nine years."

Ajit was reportedly upset with the party leadership after Mr Pawar had anointed his daughter Supriya Sule and close aide Praful Patel as the working presidents of the organisation. However, he had dismissed the possibility of quitting the party, saying he was ready to give it in writing on stamp-paper about it.

Interestingly, Mr Patel was also present at Raj Bhavan when Ajit was sworn in as the deputy CM by governor Ramesh Bais. Other NCP leaders, including Mr Bhujbal, Dilip Walse Patil, Hasan Mushrif, Dhananjay Munde, Aditi Tatkare, Dharmarao Atram, Anil Patil and Sanjay Bansode, also took the oath as ministers.

Ajit, Mr Patel, Mr Bhujbal and Mr Mushrif all have pending Enforcement Directorate cases against them. Months ago, the ED had attached several floors of a prime property belonging to Mr Patel in Mumbai. In April, Mr Mushrif received a protection from arrest by the Bombay high court in a money laundering case filed against him by the ED.

After being sworn in as a deputy CM, Ajit said, "Today, we have decided to support the Maharashtra government and took oath as ministers. There will be a discussion on the portfolios later. Considering all aspects at the national level, we thought that we should support development."

He claimed his decision was in support of the work done by the Prime Minister in the past nine years. "Seeing his (Mr Modis) work, we consider it important that we too support his effort," Ajit said.

"Overall and comprehensive development was taken into account. We have a vast experience of the administration and we can utilise it for good," the deputy chief minister added.

Maintaining that there was no split in the NCP, Ajit said they will contest all future elections on the NCPs name and symbol. "All the elected representatives (of the party) have supported the decision to join the government," he claimed.

Defending his decision to join hands with the BJP, Ajit said, "If we can go with the Shiv Sena, then we can go with the BJP as well. Previously, seven NCP MLAs in Nagaland went with the BJP on the partys decision. If we can go with the BJP in Nagaland, then why cant we go with the BJP in Maharashtra? We will do everything for the betterment of the state."

This is the fifth time that Ajit Pawar has become the deputy chief minister of Maharashtra. Of the five, three have been in the current legislative Assembly. He first became a deputy CM under Devendra Fadnavis government in 2019 and then under Uddhav Thackeray and now Eknath Shinde.

Ajits joining hands with the BJP came exactly a year after Shinde broke away from the Shiv Sena along with 39 party MLAs, which resulted in the collapse of the Uddhav Thackeray-led Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) government. Shinde later became CM with the support of the BJP.

Meanwhile, the NCP has appointed Jitendra Awhad as the new Leader of the Opposition in Maharashtra Vidhan Sabha. Mr Ahwad, an MLA from Thane district is known for his loyalty to Mr Pawar and Ms Sule.

Reacting to the development, chief minister Eknath Shinde said Maharashtra will now sprint forward with one chief minister and two deputy chief ministers. "Now the double engine has become a triple engine. I welcome Ajit Pawar and other leaders who have decided to come along," he said.

Senior Congress leader Ashok Chavan said that the alliance with the Shiv Sena (UBT) and the NCP is still on. "There won't be any effect on the Congress, there is no question about that... Were still in Opposition, our alliance with Uddhav Thackeray Faction and the NCP is still on," he said.

Meanwhile, Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray has called a meeting of all leaders on Monday. He has invited all MLAs, MPs, leaders and deputy leaders in the state to attend the meeting, to be held at Shiv Sena Bhavan on Monday.
Uttar Pradesh got completely rid of the divisive forces

Union Home Minister Amit Shah with Apna Dal (Sonelal) leader and Union Minister Anupriya Patel at the 'Jan Swabhiman Divas' programme on the birth anniversary of Apna Dal founder Sonelal Patel, in Lucknow on Sunday. (Image: PTI)

New Delhi/Lucknow: Making a strong pitch for the consolidation of backward caste voters in the state ahead of the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, Union home minister Amit Shah on Sunday said that Uttar Pradesh got completely rid of the divisive forces of the Samajwadi Party and the Bahujan Samaj Party after the BJP and the Apna Dal (Sonelal) joined hands.

Addressing a function in Lucknow to mark the birth anniversary of late Kurmi (a backward caste) leader Sonelal Patel, the father of Union minister Anupriya Patel, Mr Shah highlighted the success of the BJP and the Apna Dal (S) alliance and targeted the Congress, BSP and SP.

Mr Shah claimed that the maximum number of MPs belonging to the OBCs, SCs and STs were from the National Democratic Alliance and listed steps taken by the Narendra Modi government for the upliftment of these communities.

"Sonelal Patel made efforts to usher in happiness in the lives of the poor people from different sections by uniting them. He went to jail and even faced torture, but he did not leave the path of struggle undertaken for the backward people. It is a matter of happiness that the path shown by Sonelal Patel has been taken forward by sister Anupriya ji in continuing to work for the backward people," he said.

Mr Shah noted that in UP, the BJP and Apna Dal (S) have contested four elections together -- two Lok Sabha polls (2014 and 2019) and two Assembly elections (2017 and 2022) -- and have unitedly won them.

"As a result, UP has gotten completely rid of the divisive forces of the SP and the BSP," the Union home minister said.

In his address, Mr Shah noted that a number of measures have been taken in the last nine years of the Modi government to bring about a change in the lives of the poor, especially the backward community.

"After Independence, it was the first council of ministers of the BJP and NDA, in which 27 ministers were from the backward community. The maximum number of MPs from the OBC, SC and ST elected in any alliance was in the NDA. The Congress, SP and BSP were either in power or partners in power, but they never worked to give constitutional status to the backward class commission," he said.

Mr Shah further stated: "They never formed commissions like the one for the Dalit brothers or for the tribal ('adivasi') brothers. Modi ji worked to give constitutional status to the OBC Commission, by which the path of development of the backward class was laid."

He mentioned that the law and order situation in Uttar Pradesh has improved under the leadership of chief minister Yogi Adityanath and the state is attracting industrial investment.

"The schemes meant for the poor, which were sent by Modi ji, are being implemented by the UP administration," the Union home minister said.

Appealing to the Apna Dal (S) workers, Mr Shah said that they have to once again make the Apna Dal (S), BJP and Nishad party win all the seats in UP in the upcoming 2024 Lok Sabha elections.

Addressing the gathering, Ms Patel said that Mr Shah had played an important role in their alliance.

"The BJP-Apna Dal (S) together have contested four elections since 2014 and it is an old alliance. Mr Shah played the most important role in this. You gave us affection, respect and guidance," Ms Patel said.
The writer is an author and journalist based in Delhi-NCR. His latest book is 'The Demolition and the Verdict: Ayodhya and the Project to Reconfigure India', and hes also the author of 'Narendra Modi: The Man, The Times'. He tweets at @NilanjanUdwin.

In the past nine years, it has become commonplace for governors to block legislation passed by state Assemblies.

Tamil Nadu governor R.N. Ravis decision to summarily dismiss V. Senthil Balaji, a state minister without portfolio, was an undeniable instance of gubernatorial excess. hereafter, he eventually kept the order in abeyance, on the advice of Union home minister Amit Shah, who told him to consult the attorney-general of India on the matter. Although the BJP is likely to cite this counsel to absolve itself of any responsibility over the blatant intrusion into the powers of the elected chief minister, the party cannot evade the accusation that it is not practicing what it preached when in Opposition on the appointment and functioning of governors.

Sample these unambiguous pledges made by the BJP in its election manifestos in the 1980s and 1990s, the period when it transformed from being a marginal Opposition party to one of governance:

*(We shall) appoint state governors in consultation with state governments, support and strengthen state governments and not

destabilise and topple them. (BJP Election Manifesto, 1984).

*Misuse of Raj Bhavans as extension counters of the ruling party at the Centre have defiled the sanctity of the countrys Constitution... (We promise to) consult state governments before appointing governors and (will) consider ways and means of preventing misuse of Raj Bhavans for political purposes. (BJP Election Manifesto, 1998).

These lines are referred to as the party fought its first parliamentary election in 1984 after its formation in 1980. The manifesto of 1998 is important because that year the party formed a coalition government after cobbling together the National Democratic Alliance.

Consultations with state governments remained a common cornerstone in 1980 and 1998, underscoring consistency in its pledges, but not carried out. Clearly, the BJP has acted no differently from other parties, the Congress chiefly, that governed at the Centre previously.

It would serve to recall the professional background of the residents of Raj Bhavans in order to affix political responsibility of the governors action on the BJP. After all, this was not a one-off crossing of the Rubicon. Instead, it was part of a series of instances when Mr Ravi clearly stretched his constitutional powers beyond permissible limits.

Importantly, the Patna-born Ravindra Narayan Ravi has been a governor from August 2019, a crucial marker on the calendar because that month marked the beginning of the BJP fulfilling one of its most ideologically driven promises -- the total integration of Jammu and Kashmir into the rest of India by first abrogating Article 370 of the Constitution. He first was the resident of Raj Bhavan in Kohima, also holding dual charge as governor of Meghalaya for a brief one-month period. Mr Ravi moved to Tamil Nadu in September 2021 after being charged by the NSCN(I-M) of sabotaging the peace talks while the Centres interlocutor. In Tamil Nadu too, there were accusations from almost his first day in office that he rose roughshod over the state government and chief minister M.K. Stalin, besides not clearing bills which had been passed by the state Assembly. Prior to his appointment as the Centres pointsman in August 2014 in the crucial Naga peace talks and thereafter as governor, Mr Ravi had a decades-long career in the Indian Police Service during which he served in the CBI, among other departments. His track record is

testimony to being adept at the functioning of state systems. Quite clearly, the BJP appointed him to this position because he fulfilled the task, first as interlocutor and thereafter as Nagaland governor. In Tamil Nadu, Mr Ravi acted as check mechanism on Mr Stalin and his DMK colleagues.

From day one, the BJP appointed two different types of governors. In the first category were those in BJP-ruled states, while the others were the individuals in Opposition-ruled states. The ones in the states ruled by BJP governments were benign and did not obstruct the state governments, but those in the states where Opposition parties were in power, the governors acted as virtual political agents of the Centre and ruling party. Shortly after Prime Minister Narendra Modi assumed office in May 2014, the BJP made it abundantly clear that it would be little different from other parties when it came to appointing governors. The Raj Bhavans became the veritable parking lot of leaders who had to be put in offices where they could not wield much power. Even today, former BJP leaders dominate the list of current governors.

The move which attracted the maximum criticism was in September 2014 when Justice Palanisamy Sathasivam became the first former Chief Justice of India appointed as governor. His posting to Opposition-ruled Kerala state was indicative of the BJPs intentions. What further raised eyebrows was that in 2012-13 Justice Sathasivam was a part of the Supreme Court bench that heard the Tulsiram Prajapati false encounter Case, in which Union home minister Amit Shah was an accused. The court eventually cleared Mr Shah of the charges. Significantly, Justice Sathasivam demitted the CJIs office in April 2014 and he was appointed Kerala governor in less than five months. Allegations of quid pro quo rent the air again in February this year when Justice S. Abdul Nazeer was appointed governor of Andhra Pradesh. The allegations were not unexpected as he was part of the bench that delivered the November 2019 Ayodhya verdict and the demonetisation case later. The appointment of these two judges is in contrast to the views of the late Union minister Arun Jaitley, who said that judges of the Supreme Court and high courts must not be eligible for jobs in the government after retirement.

But more than appointment, what is particularly condemnable is the way that governors have locked horns with duly-elected governments in the states governed by Opposition parties and the way in which they have been encouraged by the Centre. Most striking of these was the conflict between vice-president Jagdeep Dhankhar, when he was West Bengal governor, and the state government led by Mamata Banerjee. His promotion from Raj Bhavan to the vice-presidency was as direct a message as could be, that he had played true to the role in Kolkata.

In the past nine years, it has become commonplace for governors to block legislation passed by state Assemblies. All this squarely adds up to the conclusion that this government pays scant respect to the federal principle despite the Prime Ministers initial clarion call of the idea of cooperative federalism. The list of instances when BJP-appointed governors went way beyond constitutionally mandated power vested in their office is long. Little purpose would be served by holding Mr Ravi only as guilty. He and other Governors get the green signal to function autocratically from the proverbial high command.
The alarming surge of the far-right in Germany, according to the latest opinion polls, shouldnt surprise the political class.

Liz Truss, Britains Prime Minister for a few weeks last year who devoted her term rallying the world for democracy against autocracy, must be squirming. Poland, Netherlands, Austria, Spain, Serbia, Hungary, France, Germany are Sweden are so far-right in the neo-Nazi mould that Beijing and Moscow look like nice places. This is a boon the Ukraine war has conferred on the West. Donald Trumps ghost looms over America. Britain, it must be said, is still in the sensible zone.

The alarming surge of the far-right in Germany, according to the latest opinion polls, shouldnt surprise the political class. Remember how the German ruling class, as the EUs engine, laid low the left-wing Syriza which brought Alexis Tsipras, 43, to power as Greek Prime Minister. The Greeks tossed up a Socialist experiment. No, said Germany and the EU. This experiment shall not be allowed. Revert to austerity or we shall not pick up your debt. The pity is Mr Tsipras turned out too weak-kneed. He buckled, demoralising the Left across the board.

In Spain, where Franco hovers over public life like Banquos ghost, people accustomed to being obedient suddenly showed spunk. The Prime Minister of the right-wing Peoples Party, Mariano Rajoy, broke all records of corruption in construction. This kind of corruption was the fashion in this phase of accelerated globalisation, but Mr Rajoy went a few yards past the post. People groaning under a tainted democracy worked hard to remove the pollution in the next election. Under the leadership of Pablo Iglesias, 39, a Spanish variant of the Communists burst upon the scene. This was Podemos, or We Can, extracted from Barack Obamas slogan which worked in the 2008 American election.

In the 2015 elections, the right-wing Peoples Party and the Socialists lost relatively, but emerged first and second. The party which created an earthquake by cornering five million votes and 69 seats was Podemos. Spain rubbed its eyes in disbelief. How could Europes fourth largest economy be allowed to be run by a coalition of which the Communists were a part? Franco would turn in his grave.

Accelerated globalisation after the Soviet collapse was a shot in the arm for capitalism. This, in turn, generated arbitrary inequalities which Thomas Pikettys Capital in the 21st Century explains in clinical detail. These inequalities resulted in such movements as Occupy Wall Street. The Republican Tea Party was a response.

People adapt to change but establishments are obstinately resistant. Also, they have the power to shape events by their control of the media, refashion public opinion. Popular will is anathema to most entrenched establishments. The consent has to be fashioned. People make economic demands, jobs, wages, price control, social welfare. These have the potential of making drastic reductions in corporate incomes. I know all this is elementary. Why then are such elementary truths edited out?

For corporates, it makes enormous sense to employ every possible trick, the media above all, to divert peoples attention from economic issues to issues of identity, minorities, migrants, race or caste, and communalism in India. This continuous tussle between establishments and the people leads to one result: muscular establishments emerge on top. The popular will is the missing ingredient in what are advertised as democracies. We are living in hollowed-out democracies, but for how long? The latest German polls point to a model, at least in the short term.

It's not something thats only happening in distant Europe. After the BJP defeat in Karnataka, theres some life in Opposition unity schemes, and yet the discourse on Narendra Modis invincibility doesnt go away. It wont go away as the controls of the Modi, Modi, Modi echo chamber lie with Mr Modi. Did you watch the masterly choreography of the inauguration of the new Parliament building? It made you gasp and close your eyes. Yes, Mr Modi will look invincible as long as the media keeps him in that focus. And the media is in the hands of big business, who are in the hands of Mr Modi, and the other way around.

The global media and the one which is in the Prime Ministers thrall are cousins, born from the same seed and at the same time. The fall of the Soviet Union brought about the sole superpower moment which required a global media. This was inaugurated by CNNs Peter Arnett from the terrace of Baghdads Al-Rasheed Hotel in Operation Desert Storm 1992.

The global media didnt reach India until a few years later. The fall of the Babri Masjid on December 6, 1992 was only covered by Newstrack, a weekly video magazine launched by the India Today group. The mushroom growth of independent channels is a phenomenon of the mid- 1990s, when the neo-liberal economic policies of P.V. Narasimha Rao and Dr Manmohan Singh boosted businesses that demanded channels to accommodate the advertising which the new economy was attracting.

The burgeoning TV scene enlarged the consumer society which is what the new economy was galloping towards -- a tinsel middle class, creating a huge imbalance between Lakshmi and Saraswati. It was all custom made for corporates, multiplying billionaires -- far away from the roti, kapda, makaan, education and healthcare, which are the basics for a developing country where an overwhelming majority are poor.

The politicians, corporates and TV channels are together in diverting the poor away from their condition towards the glorious inheritance they been wilfully denied by The Other, the migrant from another race, another country.

New strategic choices imposed by the unending Ukraine war has introduced further fertility for the far-right to prosper everywhere -- Germany, Vox in Spain next month. And who can ignore Donald Trump of the Howdy Modi chant in Houston back in 2019?
At the Angelus, the pontiff urges the faithful not to get tired from praying for peace, nor forget the victims of wars around the world. A prophet is not someone who foretells the future, but someone who points Jesus out to others. For this reason, in the Church, even the littlest [. . .] have something important to say.

Vatican City (AsiaNews)  Pope Francis spoke this morning at the end of the Angelus, inviting the faithful present in St Peter's Square to pray for the victims of the many wars causing bloodshed around the world.

For the pontiff, praying provides the gentle strength that protects and sustains the world; hence, even during summertime, let us not tyre of praying for peace, especially for the people of Ukraine who are so beleaguered. And let us not neglect the other wars so often unfortunately forgotten, and the numerous conflicts and clashes that stain many parts of the world with blood. There are so many wars today. Let us take an interest in what is happening, let us help those who suffer and let us pray.

Turning to the Gospel passage in todays liturgy (Mt 10:41), Francis looks at the real traits of a prophet. Some, he said, imagine a prophet to be some type of magician who foretells the future. But this is a superstitious idea and a Christian does not believe in superstitions, such as magic, tarot cards, horoscopes and other similar things.

In reality, A prophet is the one who, by virtue of Baptism, helps others read the present under the action of the Holy Spirit [. . .] who helps to understand Gods plans and correspond to them. In other words, the prophet is the one who points Jesus out to others, who bears witness to him, who helps live today and to build the future according to his designs.

This raises some questions. Do I, who am a prophet by election through Baptism, do I speak, and above all, do I live as a witness of Jesus? Do I bring a little bit of his light into the life of another person?

For Francis, the Gospel provides the answer by telling us to welcome the prophets. Indeed, it is important to welcome each other as such, as bearers of Gods message, each one according to his state and vocation, and to do it right where we live  that is, in the family, in the parish, in the religious community, in other places in the Church and in society.

The Spirit has distributed gifts of prophecy in the holy People of God. This is why it is good to listen to everyone. For example, when an important decision needs to be made  let us think about this  it is good to pray first of all, to call on the Spirit, but then to listen and dialogue trusting that each person, even the littlest, because they have something important to say, a prophetic gift to share.

Thus, the truth is sought and the climate is spread of listening to God and our brothers and sisters where people do not feel welcome because they say what I like, but they feel accepted and valued as the gifts they are.
by Melani Manel Perera

In 1823 the British began to bring Tamil workers from southern India to work as cheap labour. For Cardinal Ranjith, this type of slavery continues today. Plantation workers should be accepted without fear, as part of the countrys lifeline. Their dignity must be protected.

Colombo (AsiaNews)  This year, Sri Lanka marks 200 years since the first Tamil workers were brought by British colonial authorities from southern India to the island, starting in February 1823, to work as cheap labour on plantations.

This is an opportunity for the Catholic Church of Sri Lanka to speak out against the conditions of modern slavery in which their descendants, two centuries later, still find themselves and to ask the Sri Lankan government to take steps to guarantee them the dignity they deserve.

Card Malcolm Ranjith, archbishop of Colombo, made this point at a conference held at the headquarters of Caritas Sri Lanka-SEDEC[*] in Borella, Colombo, along with Bishop Justin Gnanapragasam of Jaffna, who chairs the Commission for Justice, Peace and Human Development as well as Catholic bishops from the plantation areas.

The bishops of Kurunegala, Kandy, Badulla, Galle and Ratnapura illustrated the serious problems these communities still face in areas such as education, health, livelihoods, housing, land, also stressing the importance of their cultural heritage.

Two hundred years ago, plantation workers were the first victims of a type of slavery that continues today in the form of neo-colonialism, Card Ranjith said. They have not been paid proper wages and have been used as cooks without adequate housing, he added.

White planters, the archbishop of Colombo noted, taught their culture to local planters, so companies today exploit workers the same way. What is more, the problems the latter face cannot be solved just by providing housing, repairing roads, or building toilets.

Those with power should try hard to understand how these people live, the sacrifices they make, the meagre salaries they earn. These workers should be accepted without fear as a part of the lifeline of this country, and be treated in such a way as to protect their dignity.

Speaking to the media about the conditions on the ground, the bishops said that the estates do not provide the means for Tamil to rise above the situation in which they are. For this reason, they renewed their call to the current government to take immediate action.

"We demand that the authorities take positive steps to ensure that they (the plantation workers) live as citizens of Sri Lanka, with the respect they deserve," said Bishop Harold Anthony Perera of Kurunegala, president of the Catholic Bishops' Conference of Sri Lanka.

A few years ago the government decided that the daily wage of plantation workers should be a thousand rupees, but those were just words, lamented Bishop Valence Mendis of Chilaw. And some have seen their number of working days cut, so they get a pittance.

Although most estates are privately owned, the government ought to protect the workers who live on them, the prelate added, noting that some 40,000 houses were built in the past for plantation workers, but not all of them were handed over.

ECCLESIA IN ASIA IS THE ASIANEWS NEWSLETTER DEDICATED TO CHRISTIAN COMMUNITIES IN ASIA. WOULD YOU LIKE TO RECEIVE IT EVERY SUNDAY VIA E-MAIL? SUBSCRIBE TO THE NEWSLETTER HERE.

[*] Social and Economic Development Centre
As a result, Android Auto 9.9 is now available for all users, with the first devices getting the update through the Google Play Store. However, as per Google's typical release system, the rollout happens in waves on the Play Store, so if you rely on automatic updates, chances are you'll have to wait at least a few more days to get the update.On the other hand, users who want Android Auto 9.9 right here and now can download it manually using the stand-alone APK installer.This method allows users to manually save the Android Auto 9.9 installer on their devices and perform the update. The process is called sideloading and works similarly to installing an application on a Windows computer. Users download the installation file and launch it on their devices, with the process requiring just a few more extra steps displayed on the screen.As for what's new in Android Auto 9.9, this bit is as mysterious as it gets, as Google doesn't typically provide changelogs for app updates.On the other hand, while it's difficult to tell whether version 9.9 resolves any major bugs, I can tell that it doesn't resolve one of the most widespread Coolwalk problems currently out there. Some users who received the new interface ended up struggling with a frozen screen in the lower part of the interface.Half of the UI, including the taskbar at the bottom of the screen, is frozen, so users can't interact with the apps running on the screen. Moreover, they can't jump from one app to another, as the taskbar is also frozen. The glitch appeared shortly after Google started the Coolwalk rollout in January, but no fix has since been offered. Android Auto 9.9 also doesnt seem to resolve this glitch.In the meantime, the Coolwalk release seems to approach its final stages. Most users have already received the new interface, so it's probably safe to assume that Android Auto 9.9 is supposed to further refine the experience with the new interface. Coolwalk allows users to run multiple apps side by side on the same screen. The UI is split into multiple cards, and each app group gets access to a specific card.While the search giant did not share any timing information regarding the Coolwalk broad availability, the company planned to enable the new interface for all users by the end of the summer. Google is on track to achieve this goal, so keep your fingers crossed for the new updates to polish the user experience and address at least the most widespread glitches.
What do you get when you combine a German car manufacturer, a South American importer, and a boxy station wagon styling? The answer is the NSU P10 'Uruguay,' one of the rarest models in the history of Audi and a highly treasured member of the German brand's heritage collection. The NSU 'Uruguay' was produced by an NSU importer in Montevideo between 1969 and 1971, based on the NSU Prinz 1000. Only around 500 units were made before NSU withdrew from the Uruguay market.

A bit of brand history

Photo: Audi

The Wankel engine

Photo: Audi

The strong ties with Audi

Photo: Audi

Episode no.4 - the NSU P10 'Uruguay'

Photo: Audi

kW

Photo: Audi

Further lecture

Photo: Audi

The NSU Uruguay is the latest model that Audi has honored to celebrate 150 years of the traditional brand NSU. NSU was founded in 1873 as a knitting machine factory and later became one of Germany's leading motorcycle and car producers. NSU merged with Auto Union in 1969, later becoming the Audi AG we know today.To commemorate this anniversary, Audi Tradition presents a series of classics and one-of-a-kinds from NSU's model history in a ten-part series showcasing the diversity and innovation of the brand. Some of the models that Audi has honored with anniversary press releases include the Prinz, a two-cylinder rear-engined small car, and the Ro 80, a futuristic sedan with a Wankel rotary engine and an aerodynamic and genuinely futuristic design.NSU made a name for itself as an innovative and successful motorcycle and car producer in Germany, with a history that spans almost a century. NSU was founded in 1873 as a knitting machine factory by Christian Schmidt and Heinrich Stoll in Riedlingen, a town in the Swabian region of Germany, near the Danube River. In 1880, the company relocated to Neckarsulm, a city on the confluence of the Neckar and Sulm rivers, where it still has its headquarters today. The name NSU is derived from the initials of Neckarsulm (NeckarSUlm).In 1884, NSU started producing bicycles, which soon became very popular and earned the company a reputation for quality and reliability , so much so that by 1892 it overthrew the knitting machine production. In 1901, NSU launched its first motorcycle, powered by a single-cylinder engine.In 1905, NSU also entered the car market with its first model, the Sulmobil, a three-wheeled vehicle with a two-stroke engine. NSU continued to produce cars and motorcycles until World War II when it was forced to switch to military production.After the war, NSU resumed its civilian production and introduced several successful models, such as the Prinz, a compact car with an air-cooled rear engine; the Spider, the world's first production car with a Wankel engine; and the Ro 80, a futuristic sedan with a twin-rotor Wankel powerplant and a very stylish and aerodynamic design.NSU was one of the pioneers of Wankel rotary engine development, an architecture that theoretically offered higher power output, a far more compact size, and smooth operation. The Wankel engine was invented by Felix Wankel, a German engineer who worked for NSU in the 1950s and 1960s. NSU was the first automaker to produce a car with a Wankel engine, the 1964 NSU Spider, followed by other models, such as the NSU Ro 80.However, as it turned out, the reliability of the first-generation Wankel engines was far from satisfactory. The main problem was the sealing of the rotor tips, which wore out quickly due to high temperatures and friction. This resulted in poor compression, oil consumption, carbon buildup, and loss of power, with warranty claims being filled as early as 10,000 miles.NSU tried to solve this issue by using different materials and coatings for the rotor tips, but none proved durable enough. The Wankel engines also suffered from high fuel consumption and emissions, making them even less competitive due to the oil crisis and environmental regulations.The reliability issues with the Wankel engines eventually drained NSU of its assets and reputation, thus being the main reason behind its merger with Auto Union in 1969. NSU stopped producing cars in 1977, and Audi phased out its name.The Wankel engine technology was licensed to other automakers, such as Mazda, Citroen, and Mercedes-Benz, but none overcame its inherent flaws. Mazda was the most successful and persistent user of the Wankel engine, but even it abandoned it in 2012, with plans to bring it back only as a range-extender unit for its upcoming plug-in hybrid models.In 1969, NSU joined forces with Auto Union, another German car manufacturer that belonged to the Volkswagen Group. Auto Union had its origins in 1932, when four brands: Audi, DKW, Horch, and Wanderer, merged into one entity, each founding brand being represented with one of the four rings in Audi's widely-recognizable logo.The newly-merged company was incorporated on January 1, 1969, and became officially known as Audi NSU Auto Union AG, headquartered at NSU's Neckarsulm plant. The merger brought together two brands with a rich heritage and a passion for innovation. The new company aimed to combine the strengths of both brands and offer a range of vehicles that catered to different segments and markets. The merger also saw the further emergence of Audi as a separate brand , the first time since the pre-war era.The last NSU-branded car was produced in 1977 when the Ro 80 was discontinued. In 1985, the company employed a shortened version of its name, simply called Audi AG, gradually phasing out the NSU nameplate in all markets.In the following decades, Audi went on to become one of the world's leading premium car manufacturers, offering various models that combine sportiness, elegance, and technology. Audi remains part of the Volkswagen Group, making it one of the largest automotive entities in the world.However, Audi has not forgotten its roots and its ties with NSU. Audi is proud to preserve and showcase the heritage and legacy of NSU, which is celebrating its 150th anniversary in 2023. To commemorate this milestone, Audi Tradition is presenting a 'ten-episode' series of classics and one-of-a-kinds from NSU's model history throughout the year until December.Audi Tradition is also cooperating with the German Bicycle and NSU Museums in Neckarsulm to display a special exhibition on NSU from June to October 2023, featuring some of the most iconic and rare models from NSU's history, such as the Spider, the Ro 80, the Quickly, and the Rennmax.The NSU P10 'Uruguay' is one of the most unusual and obscure models in the history of NSU and Audi. It is a station wagon that was based on the NSU Prinz 1000 but with a completely different body and engine layout. It was produced by an NSU importer in Uruguay, who wanted to offer its customers a more spacious and powerful vehicle. Only around 500 units were made between 1969 and 1971 before NSU exited the Uruguay market.The NSU P10 'Uruguay' story begins with Quintanar, the NSU importer in Montevideo, Uruguay. In 1968, Quintanar started producing and selling a station wagon on its own initiative, using technical subassemblies from the two-cylinder NSU Prinz 4. The station wagon had a simple and angular body designed by Carlos Sotomayor, a local engineer. The engine was located in the front, under the hood, while the luggage compartment was in the back. The station wagon, called the P6, sold about 140 units in its first year.However, Quintanar was not satisfied with the performance of the P6, which had a small 598 cc engine that produced only 36 hp (26.5). The importer wanted a more powerful engine for the wagon, preferably a four-cylinder. It contacted NSU in Germany and asked for permission to use the four-cylinder engine of the NSU Prinz 1000, a larger and more advanced model than the Prinz 4. NSU agreed and sent a sample body of the station wagon to Neckarsulm, whose engineers built a prototype The prototype was based on the P6 body but with some modifications. The most significant change was that the four-cylinder engine of the Prinz 1000 did not fit into the front engine compartment of the P6 without major alterations. Therefore, the engineers decided to move the engine to the back of the car, creating more space in the front. However, this also meant that the engine took up most of the cargo space in the back, leaving little room for luggage.The prototype was named the P10, featuring a 996 cc engine that delivered 43 hp (32 kW). It could reach a top speed of 75 mph (120 kph), considerably faster than the P6. The prototype was approved by the German authorities and shipped back to Uruguay, where Quintanar began producing the station wagon in two versions: the P6 with a two-cylinder engine and 36 hp (26.5 kW), and the P10 with a four-cylinder engine and 43 hp (32 kW). The Neckarsulm locals nicknamed the station wagon the NSU 'Uruguay' as it was only sold in that country.The NSU 'Uruguay' production spanned two years, from 1969 to 1971. Around 500 units were manufactured during that period, comprising both P6 and P10 variants. The station wagon was advertised as a rugged and versatile vehicle that could accommodate passengers and their luggage. It had a steel body measuring 13 feet (4 meters) in length, 5 feet (1.5 meters) in width, 4.6 feet (1.4 meters) in height, and a curb weight of 1456 lbs (660 kg).The vehicle featured a simple and functional interior layout with a straight dashboard, a two-spoke steering wheel featuring a chromed inner ring, a common-looking gear lever, and a handbrake fitted between the front seats, with no center console to separate them or the front passenger footwells. Not least, the rear bench could be folded down to increase the cargo space.The NSU 'Uruguay' did not have much success in its home market, as it faced competition from cheaper and more modern models from other brands. In 1971, NSU decided to withdraw from Uruguay, marking the end of production for the 'Uruguay,' which became an exotic and rare model in NSU's history.The NSU P10 'Uruguay' prototype built in Neckarsulm is now part of Audi's collection of historic vehicles. The prototype is the only one of its kind that ever drove on German roads, and it is one of the most extraordinary, angular, and distinctive models in the brand's heritage exhibition.For those interested in learning more about this remarkable vehicle or seeing more pictures of it, there is a book that features it among other models from the heritage collection of AUDI AG. The book, written by Ralf Friese and Stefan Warter, is titled "Einblicke. Die Fahrzeugsammlung der AUDI AG" (Insights: The Vehicle Collection of AUDI AG) and is published by Delius Klasing Verlag, Bielefeld, in its first edition. It can be purchased from bookstores, the museum shop in Ingolstadt, the Audi Forum in Neckarsulm, or the Audi Tradition online shop, being an invaluable source of information and images for anyone who deeply appreciates the history and heritage of Audi and NSU.The NSU Uruguay is more than just a box-shaped wagon forgotten in automotive history. For Audi, it represents a symbol of the creativity and diversity that characterized NSU's model history, which the German manufacturer is proud to preserve and showcase. It is also a reminder of NSU's challenges and opportunities in different markets and contexts and how it adapted and evolved to meet them. It's a special component of the heritage and legacy of NSU, which has shaped Audi's identity and vision into the leading luxury automotive brand we all know today. Audi deserves our appreciation for their effort to celebrate 150 years of NSU and honor the models that shaped the company's evolution. Audi is not only looking ahead to the future of mobility but also looking back to its roots and origins. Doing so shows us that history is not something to be forgotten but something to be cherished and learned from. The NSU Uruguay is one of the many examples of how history can inspire us to create new mobility solutions for the future.
2 July 2023 08:30 (UTC+04:00)

Elnur Enveroglu Read more

Since the first independence of the Republic of Azerbaijan, the Azerbaijan police has been distinguished by its exemplary activity in all periods.

One of the first steps taken by the Azerbaijan Democratic Republic (ADR), the first democratic republic in the East, is the creation of an independent Azerbaijan police.

Since its inception, the Azerbaijan Police has served the interests of the people and the state, faithfully fulfilling its responsibilities such as protection of order and security, protection of stability and security, fighting crime.

Unfortunately, due to the fall of ADR, the national police of Azerbaijan was also abolished. Instead, the Bolsheviks created an institution called the "militia". During the years of Soviet rule, this institution provided services in the field of security protection and crime fighting.

And finally, after Azerbaijan regained its independence, the national police was created.

It should be especially noted that the national police, one of the physical and moral supports of the Republic of Azerbaijan, actively participated in the protection of our lands and territorial integrity in the Karabakh war, in which our state was forcibly involved. In this war, 1,695 employees of the Ministry of Internal Affairs and the Internal Troops who defended our lands were martyred for the Motherland. 67 people from the ranks of the Azerbaijan Police were awarded the title of National Hero. Also, 1,143 people were awarded with various orders and medals.

In addition, attention was paid to the strengthening of the police force to end arbitrariness and criminal events in the country.

In 1994, the national leader Heydar Aliyev signed the Decree "On strengthening the fight against crime, measures to strengthen the rule of law", a serious fight against organized crime began in our Republic. Not long after, the criminogenic situation in the country changed abruptly, and important measures were taken to maintain peace, tranquilty.

Vigilance of the Internal Affairs bodies has always played a guarantor role in maintaining political stability and public order in the country.

It is no coincidence that July 2 is celebrated every year as a professional holiday of Azerbaijan Police officers in the country. This is related to the decree issued by our national leader Heydar Aliyev in 1998 during his presidency.

In October 2003, with the election of Ilham Aliyev as the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, our country entered a new stage of development, the provision of social and political stability and order became a symbol of our independent state, which confidently moves towards future success and progress. Within the framework of the comprehensive reforms carried out by the head of state, all necessary measures have been taken to modernize the internal affairs bodies. In the past years, various decrees and orders have been signed in order to fully respond to the interests of the society and build it according to advanced international practice. Important measures were taken on the basis of the State Program adopted in 2004 at the initiative of the President of Azerbaijan to improve the structure and legal framework of the ministry, to improve its material and technical supply, to strengthen the social protection of personnel and to inform about the role of the police in a democratic society.

Today, the trend of modernization covers all organs and parts of the Ministry of Internal Affairs. Adaptation of activity to international standards, improvement of material and technical support, including the provision of the most modern technologies, have been brought to a high level, dozens of electronic services, websites, "hotline" and other information resources have been created, police activities have been organized in "ASAN service" centers. These and other innovative initiatives that ensure citizen satisfaction have greatly increased the effectiveness of law enforcement, service efficiency and effectiveness in agencies and departments.

The Azerbaijan Police is a unified centralized law enforcement agency with a strong material and technical base, a well-organized system for the protection of public order, law and order, and a professional staff. Thanks to the attention and care of President Ilham Aliyev, this ongoing development and modernization allows us to reliably protect the rights and interests of our citizens protected by law, and to take adequate response measures in the fight against crime and its transnational organized types.

Today, thanks to the attention and care of President Ilham Aliyev, internal affairs bodies, which are continuously developing, stand out for their important services in the fight against crime and its transnational types, and in ensuring order and security in the country. At the same time, Azerbaijani police professionally fulfill their duties in the field of protection of the legal interests, rights and freedoms of citizens, and by always being faithful to their duties, they justify the trust and confidence placed in them.

An example of this is the intensive activity of the Azerbaijani police during the coronavirus pandemic, which was announced for the first time in Azerbaijan in 2019. At that time, in the truest sense of the word, the Azerbaijan police was fully mobilized and faithfully performed the function of public safety.

"Our police officers of the Internal Troops are on the streets day and night, risking their lives, trying to make people understand. Now we should not impede their work. The pandemic showed the whole world that everyone is equal before this disease. No privilege is given or will be given to anyone. This is one of the main parts of our policy, that the rule of law and equality should always be established."

President Ilham Aliyev mentioned these words in his address on the activities of the police officers. Indeed, the Azerbaijani police fulfilled their obligations at the highest level during the pandemic.

In addition, the Second Karabakh War, which began in 2020, was remembered by the invaluable services of the Azerbaijani police.

Certainly, employees of the internal affairs bodies of Azerbaijan demonstrated their bravery in the Patriotic War.

In addition to the progress achieved in the military, economic and management system, Azerbaijan, which is constantly developing, has taken important steps in meeting the modern standards of the Azerbaijan police.

At the present time, the high level of professionalism of the Azerbaijan Police does not lag behind the police services in many developed countries of Europe. On the contrary, the Azerbaijani police, distinguished by the courtesy, patience and restraint shown to every citizen regardless of religion, race and nationality, are received with special sympathy in the society today.

As we do not encounter criminal elements in our daily life, we may not see police activities prominently. But every citizen of Azerbaijan should understand that the current security environment is also the result of invisible, preventive activities of the police.

Some older and middle-aged generations remember the criminogenic situation in the 90s very well. Walking alone in the dark streets was a risk with life. A group of swindlers, carrying guns in their pockets and using confusion, tried to keep the common people under their influence. Many crimes that occurred were not fully investigated and remained mysterious.

However, the development of Azerbaijan in the last 30 years also gave impetus to the rapid modernization of the Azerbaijani police.

Thanks to the agility and professionalism of the Azerbaijan Police, the terrorist act that took place in the "Bravo" hyper market and the terrorists were successfully neutralized. At that time, the criminals were disarmed and neutralized on the spot.

The Azerbaijani police are distinguished not only by their physical fitness, but also by their ability to use modern technologies.

Azerbaijan police demonstrates high professionalism in the fight against modern challenges in criminality and cyber-crime. If this type of operation was once carried out by National Security officers, today the modern police in Azerbaijan perform this task in a very professional manner. In the last few years, modern Azerbaijani police operating under the Ministry of Internal Affairs have carried out a number of successful operations in cyber attacks, theft of money from bank accounts and bank cards, especially threats on social networks, and investigation of a number of crimes.

It is not a secret that, looking at the statistical indicators, we can say that Azerbaijan's police surpasses the security agencies of not only the region, but also a number of leading European countries in terms of professionalism. Thus, the criminal index of our country is lower than that of European Union countries such as Lithuania, Spain, and Hungary.

Last year, 89.7% of the crimes registered by the Ministry of Internal Affairs and the Prosecutor's Office were solved. 85.3% of serious and especially serious crimes, 98.2% of violations of the law against personality were solved.

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Elnur Enveroglu is AzerNews deputy editor-in-chief, follow him on @ElnurMammadli1

Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz
2 July 2023 18:00 (UTC+04:00)

Rena Murshud Read more

Despite the rise of crowds, riots and protests against the incumbent government, the Macron authority in France is quite calm. In the country, the murder of a 17-year-old Muslim boy by the police was not perceived unequivocally, even many state institutions of the country opposed Macron and held a protest.

It is interesting that the president of France, who allows hundreds of immigrants to his country every year in order to increase the country's population, on the other hand, ignores the violation of human rights, especially crimes that occur on the basis of racism. However, it is a very gruesome fact that this characteristic is typical not only for France, but also for other European countries.

On the other hand, growing protests in France pose a serious threat to Macron's rule. The question is whether this is the end of Macron's reign or it is simply another major revolt in French history.

"I do not believe that the ongoing protests will have a serious impact on Macron's rule. Because such protests are considered normal for Macron. He is a kind of person who is committed to his own political course from the very beginning.

Besides, if you look at history, many protests were brutally suppressed. In this regard, it is clear that, for Macron, the current line of conduct will not lead to the fall of the fifth republic. One way or another, contrary to his statements, he always ignored human rights."

This was told by Russian military expert Aleksandr Artamonov in a comment on the racial incident in France for Azernews. He added that Western and European institutions turn a blind eye to what is happening in France as they normally have such a line of behavior. According to Artmanov, if there is any doubt he can bring more evidence for instance, on the north of Italy where there is a special corps (EuroGendFor) to suppress the uprising in Europe, in which a woman is the commander of the said forces.

Identifying major functions of the French police, the expert said that there are several types of repressive police such as the SRS, the general police unit, if necessary the army and of course the gendarmerie. All of them have the right to suppress popular uprisings. Therefore, unfortunately, no one will interfere in such matters.

The Russian pundit touched upon the lack of attention by institutions in Europe to the current processes.

"I have not seen a single example where European institutions would interfere in what is happening in France. Moreover, European countries are neutral about when Muslims are killed. They prefer not to protect them and turn a blind eye to everything that happens. They react only when necessary. But at the same time they declare that they are for general equality. I want to remind you that, Angela Merkel said that the multi-cultural society has failed and this idea is no longer European," the pundit opined.

Artmanov also spoke about the largest colonies simultaneously present in France: "Armenians, since the post-war era, actually consider France as their second homeland, along with the United States. There are a lot of banks and financial organizations controlled by the Armenian lobby. In this regard, it is clear that the French authorities are biased towards Muslims, and the Armenians are always more than well and stubbornly protected. Of course, nothing can be done about this," he said.

Touching on the racist position of France, the Russian military expert said that in French-Azerbaijani relations, official Paris treats Azerbaijanis as Muslims in general.

"Unfortunately, France has a strong colonial tradition, they consider the Muslim peoples (Middle East, Lebanon, North Africa) as their potential subordinates. Therefore, for France, nothing supernatural happens in relation to the Azerbaijanis. As for France's policy towards Azerbaijan in the South Caucasus, it can be noted that this fits into the overall policy of the US Congress and NATO. It is not pleasant to listen to this, but at the moment some powers in the USA and the French are pushing Armenia to deepen the conflict with Azerbaijan," he added.

Having concluded his comment, the Russian military expert spoke of the Islamophobic position of France and noted that although the local authorities try to take advantage of the Muslim community in order to increase the population in the country, in the end, the strong hatred of Islam within the authorities complicates the issue. As a result, it also casts a serious shadow on the government's concept of justice and truth.

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Rena Murshud is AzerNews staff journalist, follow her on Twitter: @RenaTagiyeva

Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz
2 July 2023 11:04 (UTC+04:00)

Azerbaijan opened 22 new companies in Uzbekistan in January-May 2023, Azernews reports.

According to the Statistics Agency of Uzbekistan, Azerbaijan ranked ninth among ten countries that created new enterprises with foreign capital in Uzbekistan in the first five months of this year.

During the reporting period, Russia leads in the number of established companies in Uzbekistan (376), followed by China (245) and Turkey (121).

In total, in the first 5 months of 2023, about 1,279 enterprises with the participation of foreign capital were created in Uzbekistan.

Meanwhile, the trade turnover between Azerbaijan and Uzbekistan in January-May 2023 amounted to $76.7 million, of which $52.2 million accounted for exports to Azerbaijan, and $24.5 million for imports.

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Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz
2 July 2023 16:00 (UTC+04:00)

In 1918, the Republic of Armenia was established on the territory of three historical Azerbaijani khanates (Irevan, Nakhchivan and Karabakh). This included the territory of Zangazur, historically a part of Azerbaijan. After Azerbaijan's victory in the 44-day war, new geopolitical realities emerged in the South Caucasus and in the region as a whole. The new reality requires the destruction of the framework containing the historical injustice towards Azerbaijan.

Professor of the Academy of Public Administration under the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, doctor of political sciences Elchin Ahmadov told media, AZERNEWS reports, citing Day.az.

According to him, the transfer of Zangazur to Armenia had grave consequences for our country.

"As a result of this historical crime, Nakhchivan was separated from mainland Azerbaijan. For more than a hundred years, Zangazur has been under the occupation of Armenia. But now the realities have changed. Azerbaijan dictates its position as a victorious country. We do not claim foreign lands, but want to restore the historical fairness," he said.

The professor recalled that Armenia still does not fulfill its obligations under the tripartite statement of November 10, 2020.

"According to the agreements, the opening of the Zangazur corridor is envisaged, which will connect not only Nakhchivan with the rest of Azerbaijan, but also the East with the West. Armenia needs the launch of the Zangazur project more than anyone else. Zangazur is a chance for Armenia, whose economy is in collapse. I hope Nikol Pashinyan's government understands this. Only the Armenian diaspora, France and Iran, who do not want to strengthen Azerbaijan, oppose the implementation of this project. But history cannot be stopped. No force can prevent the opening of the Zangazur corridor. This giant project will be implemented in the near future," - Elchin Ahmadov added.

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Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz
2 July 2023 14:48 (UTC+04:00)

An event was held in Shusha district in connection with the 105th anniversary of the establishment of the Azerbaijan Police.

According to the Ministry of Internal Affairs, the participants of the event first visited the Martyrs' monument in the region and laid flowers in front of it, AZERNEWS reports, citing AzerTag.

Later, the speakers who addressed the event continued in the police department gave detailed information about the 105-year activity of the Azerbaijan Police and highly appreciated the activities of the internal affairs bodies.

Emphasizing the exceptional services of police officers in ensuring stability, fighting crime, and maintaining public order, they wished them success in their difficult and honorable work.

At the end of the event, gifts and awards were presented to employees who distinguished themselves in their service, as well as to police veterans.

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Several crucial documents may have been destroyed in the Lal Bahadur Shastri Common Room of the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT)- Kharagpur after a fire broke out at this iconic technology institute on Sunday. Institute sources said the blaze at the common room was noticed by the security personnel at around 3 a.m. when the students, researchers and staff were fast asleep.



Panic soon spread among the residents within the campus as the entire campus got covered by black smoke. However, no casualty or injury has been reported till the time the report was filed.



The local fire service station was contacted immediately. Fire tenders rushed to the spot and the fire was brought under control after rigorous fire- fighting that lasted over a couple of hours.



The cause of the fire is yet to be ascertained. However, the fire officials suspect that a short circuit was the reason for the fire.



The source of the fire was a storeroom near the common room. However, questions are being raised about the fire- prevention measures at this iconic technology institute of the country. To recall in March 2021, a similar fire broke out at IIT- Kharagpur. No casualty or loss of property were reported then.






1 July 2023 21:11 (UTC+04:00)

More than 1,300 people were arrested in France during a fourth night of rioting and President Emmanuel Macron cancelled a trip to Germany on Saturday as the funeral took place of teenager Nahel M, whose shooting by police sparked nationwide unrest.

Macron's government deployed 45,000 police officers as well as armoured vehicles overnight to tackle the worst crisis to face his leadership since the "Yellow Vest" protests which brought much of France to a standstill in late 2018, Azernews reports.

The interior ministry said that 1,311 people had been arrested overnight, compared with 875 the previous night, although described the violence as "lower in intensity".

Finance minister Bruno Le Maire said more than 700 shops supermarkets, restaurants and bank branches had been "ransacked, looted and sometimes even burnt to the ground since Tuesday".

Local authorities all over the country announced bans on demonstrations and ordered public transport to stop running in the evening.

Several hundred people lined up to enter Nanterre's grand mosque, which was guarded by volunteers in yellow vests, while a few dozen bystanders watched the funeral from across the street.

Some of the mourners, their arms crossed, said "God is Greatest" in Arabic, as they spanned the boulevard in prayer.

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2 July 2023 08:00 (UTC+04:00)

France on Saturday mobilized 45,000 police and gendarmes for a second night in a row amid ongoing violent protests, the country's Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin announced.

The nationwide protests over the killing of Nahel M., a 17-year-old teenager of North African descent, continue to shake France.

Protests continued on Friday for a fourth night across France, while police arrested as many as 1,311 people during the demonstrations, the Interior Ministry said on Saturday.

Nahel was shot at point-blank range by an officer on Tuesday in the Paris suburb of Nanterre.

The officer faces a formal investigation for voluntary homicide and has been placed in preliminary detention.

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2 July 2023 14:03 (UTC+04:00)

At a press conference held at the Turkish religious body's center administering the hajj in Mecca, Ali Erbas, the head of the Presidency of Religious Affairs (Diyanet), Turkiye's top religious body, announced on Saturday that a total of 92,500 Turkish citizens undertook the annual hajj pilgrimage this year, Azernews reports, citing Turkish media. The figure includes ordinary citizens together with Diyanet staff fulfilling their duties in the holy city.

Erbas highlighted that this year's number is the highest recorded in decades, demonstrating a significant increase from the previous year, where 37,770 Turkish citizens participated. In recent years, the participation rate has consistently remained below 80,000.

Also, Erbas regretfully mentioned that 25 Turkish citizens died during the hajj period this year. The hajj pilgrimage, which involves visiting the sacred Kaaba in Mecca, is one of the five fundamental pillars of Islam. It is obligatory for Muslims who possess the means to embark on this journey to do so at least once in their lifetime.

This year, the hajj pilgrimage took place from June 26 to July 1, coinciding with the celebration of Qurban Bayram, also known as Eid al-Adha, on June 28.

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2 July 2023 15:23 (UTC+04:00)

On the night from Saturday to Sunday, the Belarusian embassy in The Hague (Netherlands) was attacked: three windows were broken in it, slogans were written on the walls, AZERNEWS reports, citing Dutch media sources.

A 31-year-old man was arrested as a suspect at the scene.

The photographs show that the building has red and black graffiti texts, including the inscriptions Long live Belarus!, Long live forever! and Luka is a terrorist. Probably, this refers to the President of Belarus Alexander Lukashenko, the newspaper notes.

Member of the Dutch Parliament Sierd Sierdsma condemned such actions on his Twitter. No matter how you rightly get angry at the regime of Belarus, Russia or other countries, do not attack their embassies or residences. According to the politician, this increases the uncertainty of Dutch diplomats abroad: You are not helping anyone and making our diplomats in these countries less safe.

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2 July 2023 20:00 (UTC+04:00)

The ancient Sumela Monastery in Turkiyes Black Sea province of Trabzon province offers nature, history and culture to its visitors and has hosted nearly 600,000 visitors, Azernews reports, citing Anadolu Agency.

"After the restoration, the monastery reopened on July 1, 2021, and welcomed 597,742 visitors until June 29, 2023, despite being closed for certain periods," Tamer Erdogan, the director of the provincial directorate of culture and tourism in Trabzon, told Anadolu.

Also known as Mother Mary, or Virgin Mary, it is carved out of rocks in a wooded area on the slope of Mt. Karadag in Macka  300 meters (984 feet) above the Altindere Valley.

The monastery, which is included in UNESCO's temporary list of World Heritage sites, was reopened for religious practice on Aug. 15, 2010, with permission from the Culture and Tourism Ministry, following decades-long hiatus.

The world-famous Sumela Monastery, one of Turkiyes important religious tourism sites, was closed to visitors in September 2015 due to the risk of rockfall.

The restoration of the monastery complex began in February 2016 and was completed after landscaping, geological and geotechnical research, and strengthening of the rocks.

The ancient building reopened on July 1, 2021, and was temporarily closed on Nov. 1 the same year due to the risk of rockfall. It was opened again in May last year.

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2 July 2023 19:30 (UTC+04:00)

Turkish security forces "neutralized" nine PKK terrorists in northern Iraq, the National Defense Ministry said on Sunday, Azernews reports, citing Anadolu Agency.

The terrorists were targeted by an airstrike in the Operation Claw-Lock zone, the ministry said on Twitter.

Turkish authorities use the term "neutralize" to imply the terrorists in question surrendered or were killed or captured.

PKK terrorists have hideouts in northern Iraq, across the Turkish border, which they use to plot attacks on Turkiye.

Turkiye launched Operation Claw-Lock last year in April to target the terror group PKK's hideouts in the Metina, Zap, and Avasin-Basyan regions of northern Iraq, located near the Turkish border.

It was preceded by two operations  Claw-Tiger and Claw-Eagle  launched in 2020 to root out terrorists hiding out in northern Iraq and plotting cross-border attacks in Turkiye.

In its more than 35-year terror campaign against Turkiye, the PKK  listed as a terrorist organization by Turkiye, the US, and EU  has been responsible for the deaths of more than 40,000 people, including women, children, and infants.

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2 July 2023 23:15 (UTC+04:00)

Defence Minister Guido Crosetto said Sunday that the situation in France was "very worrying" after Italy's neighbour endured a fifth night of unrest following the death of a 17-year-old boy shot by police last week, Azernews reports, citing ANSA.

"We are very close (to Paris) because it is a difficult situation for the French government to manage," Crosetto said on the sidelines of the Fenix youth festival.

"We hope that it ends because the violence that has broken out, and which is not just hitting France and its institutions, but also many French citizens, is not acceptable.

"There is fear all over France.

"From the outside you can only watch and hope that it stops.

"But this must be a lesson to us because I think that the inequalities that have developed over the last 20 years should be addressed in a serious way.

"I think that Europe should address the issue too".

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Mayawati (File photo) After facing a massive exodus of leaders from the party in recent years, Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) President Mayawati has now instructed seniors to hunt for potential leaders from within the party to represent castes where it lacks prominence. Since 2016, BSP has lost several second rung leaders and this has eroded the sustainable leadership and representation of several caste groups, like Pasi, Kurmis and Kushwaha-Maurya.



We do not see these leaders coming back or Behenji (Mayawati) re-inducting them. The blanks need to be filled from within the party. Partymen will now scout for potential leaders at every level. They will be groomed into leaders. The party may also import leaders from outside to plug the gap, said a BSP functionary.



It may be recalled that ahead of the 2017 UP assembly elections, many prominent leaders walked out of BSP.



OBC leader Swami Prasad Maurya quit in June 2016. A month later, another veteran R K Chaudhary took the exit route. Chaudhary was a prominent Pasi leader. The Pasi community constitutes the second largest SC community in UP and is around 16 per cent, after Jatavs, who are said to be more than 50 per cent of the states total Dalit population.



Expulsion of another influential Pasi leader, Indrajit Saroj, followed in August 2017.



These expulsions dented the partys voter base. It created a panic among leaders and put voters in disbelief.



We need active leaders to reach out to these Dalit and OBC communities to bring them back to us, said the functionary.



Unfortunately, those the BSP expelled constituted a strong second line of leaders. Also, some of these leaders have assumed significant positions in other parties and are instrumental in peddling Dalit and OBC politics there.



Brijlal Khabri, who quit BSP in October 2016, is now heading Congress in UP.



Thakur Jaiveer Singh and SP Singh Baghel, who were with BSP earlier, are now ministers in the BJP government.

One of the main proponents of BSPs social engineering experiment in 2007, Brijesh Pathak is deputy chief minister in the BJP government.



At least a dozen of our former leaders are in the Yogi government. In western UP, it has made a big difference for the party as many of these leaders commanded influence in the region, like our former MP Narendra Kashyap, who joined BJP, said sources in BSP.



Moreover, BSPs second-in-command Satish Chandra Mishra has been mysteriously missing in action since the past several months and there has been no official word about his present status in the party.



In this situation, the BSP is almost leaderless after Mayawati who continues to remain unavailable and inaccessible for party cadres.






Pacific City Dory Days Celebrates Zippy Little Boat Tradition on N. Oregon Coast

Published 06/28/23 at 7:31 a.m.

By Oregon Coast Beach Connection staff

(Pacific City, Oregon)  For over 100 years now, the dory boats of Pacific City have been a spunky even startling tradition on the north Oregon coast. That inimitable and always memorable sight of seeing one of those little boats at Pacific City come barreling in at a crazy speed, then seemingly crash-land on the beach, and yet all is well. You never forget your first time catching that wild visage on the Oregon coast, where what seems absolutely insane turns out to be tradition. And a long one at that.

Indeed, their launches are almost as dramatic.

The little town at the edge of Tillamook County regular celebrates these stalwart vessels, whooping it up with a festival that's as much a tradition as the boats are now.

Pacific City's Dory Days is just about here, with the latest incarnation happening July 14 and 15 in a few places around town. There's a weekend-long display of dory vessels, a parade, various kids activities, a live band, face painting, a famed crafts fair and a delicious fish fry featuring actual catches from these legendary boats.



The future site of the Dory History Museum will be where you can look back into the past of the north Oregon coast tradition. Some of these unique vessels will be on display, showing the evolution of this singular kind of boat. You'll see examples from the '50s forward, learn how they were built, and what the difference is between a commercial vessel and a recreational one. You'll find it next to Lori's Ocean Clippers on Brooten Road, where some of the weekend's action takes place. The display will be there Friday and Saturday.

Dig into the parade at 11 a.m. on Saturday, and this year's theme is Legends of the Deep. It's open to interpretation on the part of participants, so it will be interesting to see what everyone comes up with.

First on the menu of fun for Saturday  quite literally  is the Dory Days Fish Fry, happening on Saturday. Chow down on the real thing: freshly-caught fish from some of the Dory boats. This is a true, archetypal Oregon coast experience. The heady aroma of sizzling fish and other goodies may lead you right off the bat, but if you can't tell where it's coming from it will be the Kiawanda Community Center, right on the main thoroughfare, running from noon to 6 p.m.

It's led by locally-renowned chef Ben Johnson from the Sportsman Pub and Grub. $18 for adults and $12 for kids.

The Local Artisan Craft Fair is another favorite of this festival, allowing the chance to support artisans and artists from this part of the Oregon coast. It's a treasure hunt full of distinctive and all handcrafted goods. Pottery, woodworks, jewelry, textiles and all kinds of arty to folksy delights are found.

The craft fair at the Dory Days is known for showing off the passions of these individuals and for discovering some very unique items. It also serves a greater purpose of furthering the local talents and the artistic community in general. You'll find it at the grass lot next to Lori's Ocean Clippers on Brooten Road. On Friday it goes from noon to 6 p.m. Saturday, it runs from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

After the parade, bundles of fun begins for the little ones, with a variety of kids' activities. It goes until 4 p.m. at the Kiawanda Community Center.

Face painting is one of the highlights, turning kids' faces into whimsical animals or their favorite characters. There's also colorful temporary tattoos where they add an extra burst of visual fun.

Kidlets get to participate in arts and crafts and various stations in the center, using various materials to create something truly all their own.

Then there's interactive games going on, where the wee ones are supervised as they run and around and take part in engaging new paths for their imaginations.

At night, the country rock band Countryfied hits the on June 14, starting at 7 p.m. They kick off the festival for the weekend with some heavy doses of favorite tunes from a variety of eras. See https://pacificcitydorydays.com/

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Holiday Weekend a Chance to Catch Puffins on N. Oregon Coast's Haystack Rock

Published 06/29/23 at 5:31 a.m.

By Oregon Coast Beach Connection staff





(Cannon Beach, Oregon)  Instead of watching things that blow up in the air you may consider checking out adorable things that fly through the air. The holiday weekend brings the Great Puffin Watch to the north Oregon coast burgh of Cannon Beach, where fireworks aren't allowed but the beautiful little tufted puffin puts on its own kind of show for the public. (Photos courtesy Friends of Haystack Rock)

Friends of Haystack Rock called it one of the best aerial displays and not for just one day but for almost three months.

From July 1 through 4, Friends of Haystack Rock will be at the great sea stack  a basalt rock star on the Oregon coast, really. There, they'll help you spot not only those graceful creatures but others.

Home to many different nesting seabirds, including the iconic tufted puffin, you can spot over 10 different species flying around and nesting on Haystack Rock, said spokesman Tiffany Boothe.





The Great Puffin Watch takes place on those four days from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m. right in front of the Oregon icon. You'll find multiple scopes by which to peer through, showcasing many of the different bird species that nest on or around Haystack Rock. Staff from the group will be on hand in answering any questions along with showing you the special scopes used for spotting them.

Currently, tufted puffins are rearing their young up on the rock, one of the few places on the Oregon coast they build their nests. They mate for life in the early spring, and then begin their return to Haystack Rock (as well as other areas like Bandon, Coos Bay or Oceanside). Hatched sometime in the summer, the young usually leave before August.

From May to August, tufted puffins nest on islands at Haystack Rock in Cannon Beach and Face Rock in Bandon. Remember to bring binoculars or a spotting scope to see them, said Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife. A great time to check out the coast for offshore pelagic seabirds is after a large storm.

Boothe said they spend about half the year on the open ocean. When they return to a nesting spot like Cannon Beach, they'll take up the same burrows, raising a single puffin.

The puffins make multiple daily trips to capture prey for their growing chick, she said. As ocean temperatures rise puffins must fly further and dive deeper to capture food. This is not sustainable for the Haystack Rock puffins.

The Tufted Puffin decline along the Oregon coast has been dramatic since 1979. The estimated population in 1979 was 6,600. The same count was last taken in 2021 and only 553 birds were recorded. The Haystack Rock population has declined from 400 in 1979 to 74 in 2022.

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By L.A. Williams

Christian Action League

June 20, 2023

A bill protecting minors from mutilating surgeries, puberty-blocking drugs and cross-sex hormones passed the House Wednesday and is headed to the Governors Office. House Bill 808, titled An Act to Prohibit Gender Transition Procedures for Minors, had passed the Senate on Tuesday, 29-16. Wednesdays House vote was 67-46. Both were along party lines.

Democrats Garland Pierce (Hoke, Scotland) and Michael Wray (Halifax, Northampton, Warren) had voted in favor of an earlier draft of the bill, which banned the surgeries but not the drugs. On Wednesday, they voted against the broader Senate version of the measure, which Gov. Roy Cooper is expected to veto, setting the stage for an override.

Violators of the law, which is set to take effect in August, could have their medical licenses revoked or face lawsuits.

The Rev. Mark Creech, executive director of the Christian Action League, addressed the House Judiciary Committee last week, urging them to support the bill and pointing out that by law we do not permit minors to use tobacco, drink alcohol, take drugs, gamble or engage in sex with an adult, all of which may negatively affect their health. In the same way, he said, minors should not be allowed to alter their gender surgically  an act which unquestionably poses risks, including complications from the surgery, hormonal imbalances, and an increased chance of developing mental health issues such as depression and suicidal ideation.

He applauded lawmakers for passing the common-sense legislation despite pressure from transgender activists pushing so-called gender-affirming care and claims that preventing access to transition surgeries will harm gender-dysphoric children.

Youre saying to them, You dont matter, we dont value you, we dont care about you because you dont need medical treatment. You dont need anything, because youre not human, Rep. Allison Dahle (D-Wake) said of bill supporters.

Creech said true care involves telling children the truth, that as humans they are fearfully and wonderfully made in Gods image and have no need to alter their bodies.

Lets let children be children, not miniature adults with full-sized problems, he added.
By Peyton Majors

Christian Action League

June 30, 2023

The North Carolina House and Senate this week easily passed a bill known as the Parents Bill of Rights, sending to Gov. Roy Cooper legislation that would clarify parents legal rights within education, gender, sexuality and other areas.

The legislation, Senate Bill 49, declares that parental involvement and empowerment is fundamental to the successful education of all students. It prohibits instruction on gender identity, sexual activity, or sexuality in the curriculum for grades kindergarten through fourth grade. Further, it prevents school officials from changing a students name or pronoun  in school records or by school personnel  without first notifying the parents.

It passed 26-13 in the Senate and 66-47 in the House, with Republicans composing all the yes votes and all Democrats voting no. The only member to break ranks was GOP Rep. Hugh Blackwell, who opposed it.

Sen. Amy S. Galey, a Republican and a bill supporter, said the legislation is necessary.

Parents have the duty, they have the responsibility to care for their children, Galey said.  The state should respect that and support that.

Addressing objections from Democrats about LGBT children, Galey added, When you withhold information from parents, that is vital to their understanding about their childs mental health.

If you have a child who is suicidal, if you have a child who has mental health problems, the first person that should be called and brought into the conversation is the parents, she said.

Parents grew more concerned about schools during the pandemic, Galey said.

Parents came up with a lot of concerns and questions about the curriculum and when parents approached the teacher or approached the principal, they get the stiff arm, she said.

The bill says an employee of the State who encourages, coerces, or attempts to encourage or coerce a child to withhold information from his or her parent may be subject to disciplinary action. This specific language would prevent schools from encouraging students to withhold information from parents about issues of gender and sexuality.

(Read the full text of the bill here. Scroll down to read the full list of rights)

The 12-page bill lists 12 specific rights for parents in the education realm and 10 rights for parenting in general.

For education, it says parents have the right to: 1) consent or withhold consent for participation in reproductive health and safety education programs, 2) seek a medical or religious exemption from immunization requirements, 3) review statewide standardized assessment results as part of the State report card, 4) request an evaluation of their child for an academically or intellectually gifted program, or for identification as a child with a disability, 5) inspect and purchase public school unit textbooks and other supplementary instructional materials, 6) access information relating to the units policies for promotion or retention, including high school graduation requirements, 7) receive student report cards on a regular basis that clearly depict and grade the students academic performance in each class or course, the students conduct, and the students attendance, 8) access information relating to the State public education system, State standards, report card requirements, attendance requirements, and textbook requirements, 9) participate in parent-teacher organizations, 10) opt in to certain data collection for their child, 11) for students to participate in protected student information surveys only with parental consent, and, 12) review all available records of materials their child has borrowed from a school library.

The more general list of parental rights says parents have the right to: 1) direct the education and care of his or her child, 2) direct the upbringing and moral or religious training of his or her child, 3) enroll his or her child in a public or nonpublic school, 4) access and review all education records, 5) make health care decisions for his or her child, 6) access and review all medical records of his or her child, 7) prohibit the creation, sharing, or storage of a biometric scan of his or her child without the parents prior written consent, 8) prohibit the creation, sharing, or storage of his or her childs blood or deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA), 9) prohibit the creation by the State of a video or voice recording of his or her child, and, 10) be promptly notified if an employee of the State suspects that a criminal offense has been committed against his or her child.
On its fifth night, violent race riots by Third World migrants which began in Paris suburbs after police shot a 17 year old Muslim criminal, have spread across the country. Cars and buildings have been set afire, stores looted, and French officials physically attacked. City halls and police stations have been among bulidings set on fire. Off duty police officers have been severely beaten. In the town of L'Hay des Roses, rioters rammed a burning car into the home of the mayor, injuring his wife and children and damaging his home.

https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-12255699/Rioters-ram-French-mayors-home-burning-car-assassination-attempt-injures-family.html

https://www.thegatewaypundit.com/2023/07/france-has-fallen-migrant-mob-torch-mayors-home/

https://rmx.news/crime/french-riots-2-off-duty-police-officers-beaten-like-dogs-by-mob-in-brutal-video/

https://rmx.news/crime/france-turns-into-war-zone-as-second-night-of-riots-slams-country-viral-videos-show-police-stations-city-halls-and-dozens-of-cars-torched/

The largely Muslim rioters also vandalized a Paris memorial to French Jews deported in the Holocaust.

https://europeanconservative.com/articles/news/parisian-holocaust-memorial-trashed/

A 79 yeaer old French priest was attacked, severely beaten, and robbed by rioters

https://europeanconservative.com/articles/news/reports-that-french-catholic-priest-violently-beaten-and-robbed-go-viral/

Meanwhile, the French race riots by Third World migrants have spread beyound France to Belgium and to Laussane in the French speaking part of Switzerland.

Two years ago, 25 French generals signed an open letter to Macron warning of civil war due to the influx of migrants.

https://www.zerohedge.com/geopolitical/france-crisis-fifth-night-violence-spreads-neighboring-countries

UPDATE: On the sixth night of violence, France saw more burning and looting by out of control mobs of migrants, and a 24 year old French firefighter was killed battling a blaze set by the rioters in an underground car park. Meanwhile, French citizens started to fight back with groups of vigilantes armed with swords and football "ultras" taking to the streets to defend persons and property from the rioters.

https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-12257991/French-firefighter-24-killed-battling-riot-blaze-sixth-night-violence.html
By Ben Whedon at Just The News

Article updated: June 30, 2023 - 4:22pm

North Carolina's 12-week abortion ban will take effect on Saturday, after a federal judge declined to fully block its implementation and only halted a requirement that doctors document a pregnancy when prescribing or administering abortion drugs.

U.S. District Judge Catherine Eagles's decision keeps that provision on ice until July 14, The Hill reported. Planned Parenthood had challenged several of the ban's provisions, though the legislature approved last minute updates to the law's language, which Democratic Gov. Roy Cooper signed. Eagles noted that the updates effectively killed some of the organization's challenges to the ban and allowed most of it to take effect.

The law's implementation will end the Old North State's status one of the last remaining southern states with relatively permissive abortion laws. The twelve week gestational limit, however, is still much more permissive than myriad southern states that have either entirely banned the procedure or set the bar at six weeks.

North Carolina's previous law banned abortion after 20 weeks.

South Carolina, meanwhile, has passed a "heartbeat" bill banning abortion after the detection of a fetal heartbeat, which can occur as early 5-6 weeks of pregnancy. That bill, however, is the subject of a judicial hold, meaning the procedure is legal until 22 weeks, according to the Guttmacher Institute.
by Kazi Anwarul Masud

ESTABLISHMENT OF QUAD





According to Dr. Prabhakar Deshpande, an Indian analyst the origin of QUAD can be traced back to the evolution of Exercise Malabar and the 2004 Tsunami, when India conducted relief and rescue operations for itself and neighboring countries and was later joined by US, Japan, and Australia. Obviously feeling endangered, China issued formal diplomatic protests to the members of the Quad. Followed by this, Australia withdrew in 2008 from the forum, ostensibly, due to political pressure from the Chinese government, but in 2010, Australia again joined the Quads naval exercises & enhanced military cooperation between the US and Australia was resumed. Japanese PM Shinzo Abe , in 2012, emphasized the idea of Asias Democratic Security Diamond, comprising the US, Japan, India, and Australia. Following this, in 2017, the first official talks under the Quad took place in the Philippines. The motive behind the Quad is believed by Dr. Deshpande to keep the strategic sea routes in the Indo-Pacific, free of any military or political influence. It is basically seen as a strategic grouping, aimed at reducing the Chinese domination.





Pannaros Boonserm works at a construction site of the China-Thailand railway in Nakhon Ratchasima province, Thailand, Feb. 23, 2023. (Xinhua/Wang Teng)





CORE OBJECTIVE OF QUAD





The core objective of the Quad is, to secure a rules-based global order, freedom of navigation, and, a liberal trading system. The coalition also aims to offer, alternative debt financing for nations in the Indo-Pacific region. It is believed, that the forum strategically counters Chinas economic and military rise. As a member of the Quad, in the event of a rise in the Chinese hostilities on its borders, India can take the support of the other Quad nations to counter it. In addition, India can even take the help of its naval front and conduct strategic explorations in the Indo-Pacific region. In March 2021, US President Joe Biden hosted the first-ever summit of the Quad leaders in a virtual format. The summit vowed to strive for an Indo-Pacific region, that is free, open, inclusive, and unconstrained by coercion.





PRESIDENT JOE BIDENS SUMMIT MEETING WITH QUAD LEADERS





On September 24, 2021, US President Joe Biden hosted the first-ever in-person summit of the Quad leaders. The summit vowed to strive for an Indo-Pacific region that is free, open, inclusive, and unconstrained by coercion, sending an apparent message to China. At President Bidens invitation, the Quad summit, attended by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his counterparts, Scott Morrison from Australia and Yoshihide Suga from Japan, announced initiatives to take on common challenges, amidst muscle flexing by an assertive China in the strategic region. Although the Quad does not exist simply to counter China or its influence, the aggressiveness, the coercive nature with which, China tries to press its claims, is discussed with the allies and partners of India, and inside the Quad. The Quad arrangement gives India an opportunity to work multilaterally on all kinds of initiatives that can help create, a free and open Indo-Pacific region. In November 2017, India, Japan, the US, and Australia gave shape to the long-pending proposal of setting up the Quad, to develop a new strategy to keep the critical sea routes in the resource-rich Indo-Pacific, free of any influence, amidst Chinas growing military presence in the strategic region. In the recent past India, the US, and several other world powers have been talking about the need to ensure, a free, open, and thriving Indo-Pacific, in the backdrop of Chinas rising military maneuvering in the resource-rich region. It is important to note here that, China claims nearly all of the disputed South China Sea, though Taiwan, the Philippines, Brunei, Malaysia, and Vietnam all claim parts of it. Beijing has also built artificial islands and military installations in the South China Sea. China also has territorial disputes with Japan in the East China Sea.





JOSEPH NYES VIEWS ON CHINAS MUSCLE FLEXING





Harvard luminary Joseph Nye J is hopeful that despite Chinas muscle flexing ultimately China would refrain from using hard power despite its declaration from Mao Tse Tung to Xi-Jinping that Taiwan remains a renegade province and must be united with the motherland. Joseph Nye however believes that the cost of a military adventure in Taiwan would be self-defeating due to the complex politico-economic inter-relationship between China and the rest of the world. China is more likely to adopt Joseph Nyes policy of soft and smart power. In Nyes words paraphrased  Soft power is the ability to affect others to obtain the outcomes one wants through attraction rather than coercion or payment. A countrys soft power rests on its resources of culture, values, and policies. A smart power strategy combines hard and soft power resources. Public diplomacy has a long history as a means of promoting a countrys soft power and was essential in winning the cold war. The current struggle against transnational terrorism is a struggle to win hearts and minds, and the current overreliance on hard power alone is not the path to success. A public diplomacy is an important tool in the arsenal of smart power, but smart public diplomacy requires an understanding of the roles of credibility, self-criticism, and civil society in generating soft power. In an article in Project Syndicate in January last year titled Whatever Happened to Soft Power?





VIEWS OF JOSEPH NYE ON SOFT YEAR





Joseph Nye wrote  Soft power is not the only or even the most important source of power, because its effects tend to be slow and indirect. But to ignore or neglect it is a serious strategic and analytic mistake. The Roman Empires power rested not only on its legions but also on the attraction of Roman culture and law. Similarly, as a Norwegian analyst once described it, the American presence in Western Europe after World War II was an empire by invitation. No barrage of artillery brought down the Berlin Wall; it was removed by hammers and bulldozers wielded by people who had been touched by Western soft power. Smart political leaders have long understood that values can create power. If I can get you to want what I want, I will not have to force you to do what you do not want to do. If a country represents values that others find attractive, it can economize on the use of sticks and carrots. A countrys soft power comes primarily from three sources: its culture; its political values, such as democracy and human rights (when it upholds them); and its policies (when they are seen as legitimate because they are framed with an awareness of others interests). A government can influence others through the example of how it behaves at home (such as by protecting a free press and the right to protest), in international institutions (consulting others and fostering multilateralism), and through its foreign policy (such as by promoting development and human rights).





CHINAS SMART POWER PROBLEM





Joseph Nye adds that China has a smart-power problem. After all, it is difficult to practice vaccine diplomacy and wolf-warrior diplomacy (aggressive, coercive browbeating of smaller countries) at the same time. True, international polls showed that the US also suffered a decline in soft power during Donald Trumps presidency. But, fortunately, America is more than its government. Unlike hard-power assets (such as armed forces), many soft-power resources are separate from the government and are only partly responsive to its purposes. For example, Hollywood movies showcasing independent women or protesting minorities inspire others around the world. So, too, does the charitable work of US foundations and the freedom of inquiry at American universities. Firms, universities, foundations, churches, and protest movements develop soft power of their own. Sometimes their activities will reinforce official foreign-policy goals, and sometimes they will be at odds with them. Either way, these private sources of soft power are increasingly important in the age of social media. The January 6, 2021, insurrection at the US Capitol certainly damaged US soft power. But those who would mourn the death of American democracy prematurely should bear in mind that the 2020 election drew an unprecedented turnout despite the pandemic. The American people are still able to unseat a demagogue in a free and fair election. This is not to suggest that all is well with American democracy or its soft power. Trump eroded many democratic norms that now must be restored.





PRESIDENT JOE BIDEN THINKS CHINA SEEKS MONRO DOCTRINE EQUIVALENT IN ASIA





Biden has made strengthening democracy at home and abroad a goal of his presidency, but the results remain to be seen. No one can be certain about the future trajectory of any countrys soft power. But there is no doubt that influence through attraction will remain an important component of world politics. A contrary view is held by John Mearsheimer of Cornel University. He thinks that China will seek the equivalent of a Monroe doctrine in Asia (ie. to be the unchallenged hegemon in its neighborhood). This will pose a security dilemma problem, likely leading to an Asian arms race. It will also motivate a balancing coalition to resist Beijings dominance. The US, which will likely lead such a coalition, will respond with containment efforts and other strategies, practiced in the Cold War. Unlike central Europe in the Cold War, Asias expansive geography (especially in the maritime domain) will create lower barriers to conflict. In a sprawling, largely oceanic theatre of operations, security actors may feel that conflicts can be managed. Perversely, because the perceived cost and threat of nuclear escalation is lower than in Cold War Europe, this will reduce trigger thresholds and heighten dangers. Even more perilous is the unbalanced multi-polarity structure likely to arise in Asia where China clearly dominates several smaller  but still powerful  regional states.





MEARSHEIMERS CONCERN ABOUT CHINESE HYPER-NATIONALISM





Mearsheimer is particularly concerned about the morphing of Chinese nationalism into hyper-nationalism since 1989. This is the displacement of the victor mentality into aggrieved victimhood, dwelling on historical injustice. Hypernationalism has replaced ideology. It goes beyond patriotism and exceptionalism; it is hatred of the Other, something regrettably all too common in Asia. Chinese strategic philosophy values offensive realism as much as, or even more than, the US and USSR. China will seek the equivalent of a Monroe doctrine in Asia (ie. to be the unchallenged hegemon in its neighborhood). This will pose a security dilemma problem, likely leading to an Asian arms race. It will also motivate a balancing coalition to resist Beijings dominance. The US, which will likely lead such a coalition, will respond with containment efforts and other strategies such as rollback and bait & bleed, well-practiced in the Cold War. We can therefore expect to see a mutual hardening of rhetoric and positions in the security competition. Unlike central Europe in the Cold War, Asias expansive geography (especially in the maritime domain) will create lower barriers to conflict. In a sprawling, largely oceanic theatre of operations, security actors may feel that conflicts can be managed. Perversely, because the perceived cost and threat of nuclear escalation is lower than in Cold War Europe, this will reduce trigger thresholds and heighten dangers. Even more perilous is the unbalanced multi-polarity structure likely to arise in Asia where China clearly dominates several smaller  but still powerful  regional states. This is the worst possible architecture of all inter-state relations. Mearsheimer is particularly concerned about the morphing of Chinese nationalism into hyper-nationalism since 1989. This is the displacement of the victor mentality into aggrieved victimhood, dwelling on historical injustice. Hypernationalism has replaced ideology. It goes beyond patriotism and exceptionalism; it is hatred of the Other, something regrettably all too common in Asia. Chinese strategic philosophy values offensive realism as much as, or even more than, the US and USSR.





MEARSHEIMERS DOUBT OF CHINESE ACCEPTANCE OF A RULE-BASED WORLD





Mearsheimer is not very certain of the Chinese intention to accept a rule-based world where China does not get its preferred seat at the highest level. The risk is more likely because Xi-Jinping lacks the experience that Joseph Stalin at the Yalta Conference, Leonid Brezhnev, and his successors had in dealing with US Presidents during the Cold War. Besides confrontation with the US over Taiwan regarded by China as a renegade province that remains to be integrated with mainland China is always a possibility. China may be further emboldened by the decline of the US and the induction of multi-polarity in global politics. One hopes that given the complexity pervading the world today and the will of the people of the world for peace and tranquility, no country will be foolish enough to push the nuclear button ensuring the extinction of humanity.





Kazi Anwarul Masud is a retired Bangladeshi diplomat. During his tenure, he worked in several countries as the ambassador of Bangladesh including Thailand, Vietnam, South Korea and Germany
by N. S. Venkataraman

In order for any country or society to claim a civilized status, it is crucial that men and women are treated equally and in accordance with the laws of the land. Unfortunately, there are certain countries in the world where Muslim women are considered inferior to men, and their freedom and mobility are severely restricted by discriminatory laws. These restrictions manifest in various forms, such as enforcing specific dress codes, denying women the right to pray alongside men in mosques, withholding driving licenses, and limiting their freedom of movement in certain places.





Countries like Iran and Afghanistan present particularly harsh conditions for Muslim women, which can be described as nothing short of cruel. Although the situation may be comparatively less severe in some other Islamic countries, it remains unfair to women. Even in secular countries like India, Muslim women face numerous restrictions and discriminatory laws.





Mehran, Iran [Photo: Mostafa Meraji/ Unsplash ]





For decades, countless Muslim women in Islamic countries and even in India have silently endured suffering, fearing the repercussions from religious authorities and male members of their communities. Although some women in Afghanistan and Iran recently protested, demanding their rights and privileges, these movements were brutally suppressed by the respective governments. However, other countries and global citizens mostly observed the situation from a distance, offering little more than lip service. As a result, Muslim women in Iran, Afghanistan, and some other countries continue to struggle in isolation for their freedom and liberty.





It is important to recognize that the proponents of restricting and suppressing Muslim womens freedom are primarily religious clergy and fanatical followers. They view women as mere child-bearing machines and believe that women should primarily exist to fulfill the needs and expectations of men, thereby isolating themselves from public life. However, it is worth noting that many Muslim men are also unhappy with this situation, yet they often fail to voice their support in a meaningful way.





Case study in India:





India is home to the second-largest Muslim population in the world, accounting for 14.5% of its 1.4 billion people. Consequently, India also has the largest population of Muslim women in the world.





India has numerous laws that are detrimental to women. For instance, Muslim men are legally permitted to have up to four wives, displaying a lack of concern and respect for womens feelings and womanhood. Until recently, a Muslim husband could instantly divorce one or more wives by uttering the phrase known as triple talaq, with some men even resorting to this practice without facing their wives directly. Fortunately, the Indian government has now banned this practice, providing significant relief to Muslim women. However, occasional instances of triple talaq still occur in India.





Furthermore, in the case of divorce, a Muslim man retains all financial rights, while a Muslim woman loses her financial rights. This discriminatory law is still in effect in India today. Moreover, if a dispute arises between a husband and wife regarding the custody of their children, a Muslim husband can automatically gain custody, while a Muslim woman must seek court permission to obtain custody.





These are just a few examples of the prevailing unjust laws and deplorable practices against Muslim women in India.





Modi governments proposal:





The government led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi has proposed the introduction of a uniform civil code in India, which would ensure that all citizens, regardless of their religious background, have equal economic, social, and religious rights. Implementing such a law would effectively eliminate the injustices faced by Muslim women in India. However, this proposed uniform civil code has faced opposition from Muslim clergy and various Muslim associations, largely dominated by Muslim men. It remains to be seen whether the Modi government can overcome this opposition and successfully implement the much-needed uniform civil code, despite resistance from certain political parties that seek to appease Muslim men for the sake of their vote bank politics.





Suffering of Muslim women in India:





The poverty levels among the Muslim population in India are a matter of concern. An analysis of the ground realities indicates that these conditions largely stem from the suppression of womens rights, the limitations imposed on their liberty, and the restrictions on their activities. The educational and awareness levels among a considerable section of Muslim women in India lag behind those of women from other communities.





Consequently, nearly half of the Muslim population in India, mostly Muslim women, are not meaningfully involved in economic activities, and their potential and talents remain deliberately suppressed.





Muslim women in India require sympathy, support, and understanding from all sectors of society. While the proposed uniform civil code holds immense potential to benefit Muslim women, they currently remain conspicuous in India due to their silence, unable to gather the courage to demand their rightful rights.





N. S. Venkataraman is a trustee with the "Nandini Voice for the Deprived," a not-for-profit organization that aims to highlight the problems of downtrodden and deprived people and support their cause and to promote probity and ethical values in private and public life and to deliberate on socio-economic issues in a dispassionate and objective manner.
Patient Trevor Corry from Lisburn and his wife Delia and daughter Clare Gibson with actor James Nesbitt (Handout/PA)

James Nesbitt has praised the absolutely amazing work of end-of-life charity Marie Curie after visiting residents and staff at its Belfast hospice.

The Northern Irish actor, who has starred in Cold Feet and Bloodlands, spent nearly two hours speaking with patients, family members and staff.

The 58-year-old  who was invited by his friend who works at the hospice, Dr Catherine Doherty  said his experience was different to what he had expected.

He said: I suppose I was a little reticent before coming into the Marie Curie hospice but I was blown away by the place, the sheer positivity and warmth of it all and all the staff. It was absolutely amazing.

The emphasis is on living well and it was completely different to what I thought it was.

The patients told me that their time in the hospice was like being in a home from home and I could feel that. Its a standard of care that I wish everyone could have.

It was lovely to see one woman have her little dog in her room to visit her along with her husband and to hear how family parties and events are organised by the staff for the patients.

Mr Nesbitt wished the staff at Marie Curie well as they prepare to celebrate the charitys 75th anniversary on July 6.

Actor James Nesbit with, from left, pharmacist David Marshall, Dr Gemma McCann, Dr Catherine Doherty and Dr Rhianon Boyle at his visit to Marie Curies Belfast hospice (Handout/PA)

Paula Heneghan, strategic partnerships and services associate director of Marie Curie Northern Ireland, thanked Nesbitt for giving his time and bringing cheer to patients and staff.

James chatted and spent time with everyone and was very sensitive and warm with our patients, who really appreciated his visit, she said.

He showed a real interest in end-of-life care for people and what we do at Marie Curie and it was a pleasure to have hosted him.

Thanks, too, to Dr Doherty and the rest of the medical team for all they do for our patients.

Marie Curie provides end-of-life care for people at home and in hospices, helping to manage symptoms of terminal illnesses.
One of the posters erected in Cookstown.

A DUP MLA has said politics and democratic processes are the only way to resolve the protocol dispute after a poster threatening violence over the sea border appeared in a Co Tyrone town.

The image of a masked gunman was placed on lamp posts in Cookstowns main street.

The PSNI confirmed it has received a report of posters erected in the area.

Those who erected the posters appear to take issue with the NI Protocol as it states our forefathers fought for our freedom and rights  no border in the sea or we continue the fight.

SDLP councillor for Moyola Denise Johnston shared an image of the poster saying it is not acceptable.

She tagged PSNI Chief Constable Simon Byrne, adding that it needs to be taken down immediately. I have contacted the PSNI Mid Ulster in relation to this poster on lampposts in Cookstown.

Ms Johnston also included unionist councillors in the post urging them to use any influence they may have for the good.

Im well used to seeing the vast array of flags adorning lampposts especially at this time of the year but this on another level, one we cannot allow ourselves to sink to, she added:

"That these have been up for weeks is all the more shocking, this generation should not be allowed to think this is our normal. Im sure all right thinking people from both our communities will condemn this but its not enough.

"I cannot see any reason why the PSNI would not remove these. Allowing them to remain sends out a message that only encourages those who would drag us back. Threats must be met with firm action.

Mid Ulster DUP MLA Keith Buchanan said politics and democratic processes are the only way the challenges of the protocol will be overcome.

Violence and/or the threat of it is never acceptable and the DUP always advocates the democratic route as opposed to arguing that there was no alternative to violence as some have recently said, he added.

Northern Ireland has been without a functioning power-sharing government since February 2022, when the DUP withdrew from the Executive due to its protest over the protocol.

The DUP continues to boycott Stormont over post-Brexit trading arrangements, despite changes being made via the Windsor Framework aimed at significantly reducing the number of checks required on goods travelling between Northern Ireland and the rest of the UK.

Last week the Democratic Unionists submitted a paper to the UK government with proposals on how to address key issues with the Windsor Framework.

Sir Jeffrey Donaldson said he wanted to give time for the government to respond and respect the integrity of the process.

He was addressing a Westminster committee hearing as part of an inquiry by the Northern Ireland Affairs Committee.

The inquiry will consider changes to make the Stormont institutions work better.

It will examine how effective institutions such as the Northern Ireland Assembly and the Northern Ireland Executive have been in enabling cross-community, stable and effective government.

The UUP has been contacted for comment.

Police said enquiries are currently ongoing and appealed to anyone with information about the posters to call them on 101.

You can also submit a report online using our non-emergency reporting form via http://www.psni.police.uk/makeareport/
Fiona with her adored son Noah, whose body was found in a storm drain in 2020

The mother of tragic Noah Donohoe has rejected a report by a psychiatrist which states her son died by suicide while suffering low mood and struggling with his sexuality.

Fiona Donohoe says Noah was raised in an open-minded family in Belfast and around people of same-sex relationships, and showed no signs of battling with his own sexual identity.

There is absolutely no evidence that I have ever been made aware of that Noah was confused about his sexuality. In fact, our dynamic as a family was always one of open discussion on all topics, including sexuality.

The report seen by the Independent Investigation team probing the circumstances around Noahs death does, however, give an incredible insight into his last texts, social media messages and Google searches, which point to a strange obsession with controversial psychologist Jordan Peterson.

The team lead by Dublin-based journalist Donal MacIntyre, says the last message sent by Noah was to Petersons blue-tick Instagram account, and while it was answered, the PSNI have been unable to access the communication.

Hed also spent his last day searching biblical references and places on the internet as well as advice on how to ward off Satan.

The details are contained in the psychiatric report prepared for the coroner, and the experts opinion is that the 14-year-old died by suicide as he could not square-off being gay with his perception of Petersons views of the future.

Read more Noah Donohoe inquest delayed by questions over CCTV footage and forensics

MacIntyre says the report reveals important details of the teenagers fascination with Peterson and says the run-up to his tragic death would suggest that Noah may have been suffering a mental health episode, but believes there are no factors identified which suggest he was in any way suicidal.

He might not have been thinking straight but he wasnt thinking about suicide. None of this was planned, he said.

Noah Donohoe

Fionas mum insisted: Noah was brought up around same-sex relationships and couples, and so the idea he would have struggled accepting whatever his sexuality was is inconceivable to me.

To suggest this would be a factor to trigger Noah to consider suicide shows the little understanding the expert had into who Noah was as a teenage boy.

Noah had no issues of sexuality. That is never something Noah would have hidden.

And he would never have felt shame in it as he was brought up to be proud of who he was and embrace everyones individuality regardless of colour, religion and preferences towards how they live their life as long as they dont harm another person by doing so.

She said she does not believe that there is any merit in the suicide suggestion.

It is understood that none of his friends or teachers interviewed by the police suggested that Noah had issues with his sexuality.

The report was written up by a leading psychiatrist based on witness statements, testimony from friends and family and forensic reports along with CCTV, medical records and maps.

The report does not view his death as the result of a concussion, due to drugs or alcohol and nor does it believe it could have been an accident.

But it does take the view that suicide is a strong possibility,

Read more Michelle ONeill calls for Noah Donohoe family to be given answers

despite Noah having no history of mental ill-health, self-harm and being described as a happy, bright and well rounded child.

In the report, the psychiatrist  whose identity we have chosen not to reveal  outlines a scenario where Noah is described as experiencing an acute episode of low and unstable mood at the time of his death.

A stressor is outlined as possible struggles with his sexuality, referenced in communication with pals in the weeks before his death when he describes being in denial and coming out although the report admits the messages are not clear.

It couples the feelings with statements around his interest in Peterson at the time and the possibility that he couldnt tally that with the psychologists beliefs.

Whether the shedding of clothes along the way to the storm drain area reflects a deeper quasi religious symbolism will need further clarification, the report states.

Hours before he disappeared, Noah looked up ancient religious places including Sodom and Gomorrah referred to in Petersons Biblical Series released on the same day, June 21, 2020.

That afternoon, Noah set off from his home on his bicycle, telling his mum Fiona he was meeting pals at Cave Hill but instead he was caught on CCTV on a bizarre journey across the city during which he lost his back pack and removed his clothes before abandoning his bike.

He was found six days later in a storm drain off the Shore Road.

His inquest will hear details of the psychiatric report, which reveals how witnesses say he had been voraciously reading the bestselling Peterson book 12 Rules for Life and speaking with friends about his philosophies about the pursuit of happiness and changing his mindset.

MacIntyre, whose team has already revealed how the youngster secretly left his Belfast home in the early hours of the morning of his disappearance, says the report gives no evidence he was suicidal but focusses heavily on Peterson.

At the time, the psychologist was releasing a series of podcasts called the Biblical Series, featuring lengthy lectures from the ancient books of Genesis and applying them to modern life.

On the day Noah went missing his internet searches included ancient biblical terms, including: Tree of Moreh, a place where messages from God were received; Bethel, where Abraham found a ladder to heaven; Negev, a desert where ancient people developed techniques to conserve water and the Land of Ai, conquered by the Israelites.

On the same day, Peterson released a podcast called Sodom and Gomorrah, which focused on transformation in humans being like a baptism and a return to water, the source of life.

In statements collected by the PSNI, friends and others have said in the days before his death Noah rarely left down Petersons book and carried it with him until shortly before he disappeared naked into the storm drain.

His inquest will hear that he had told friends he was feeling a bit blue and had cancelled a day out, saying he wanted to be on his own to think. On June 16, mum Fiona reported to a pastoral team at the school that his mood wasnt as good as usual. At 2am on June 18 Noah texted a pal and said: Ask yourself are you truly happy with the things in your life.

But by June 20 a friend said he was calmer and focused all conversation on Petersons book, talking about risks that must be taken in life.

The report described Noah as a straight A student who was bright and enthusiastic and had plans to become a doctor and attend Trinity College, in Dublin.

MacIntyre agrees with Fiona Donohoe that nothing in Noahs personal search history seemed to indicate he was struggling with his sexuality. The experts can only work with the data theyve been given, and not all the evidence held by the PSNI was in the psychiatrists hands when he wrote the report.

As much as it is an expert report, it is equally a subjective opinion and is likely to be challenged by alternative experts commissioned by the family.
The incident occurred around 5.30pm on Saturday as the ferry neared its destination in Scotland. Pic: Pacemaker

A man has died after falling overboard on Stena Lines Belfast to Cairnryan sailing on Saturday.

It is understood that the incident occurred as the ferry was nearing its destination around 5.30pm and that the ferrys own fast rescue craft rescued the man from the water.

Afterwards, he was taken by the coastguard helicopter to Ayr Hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

A Police Scotland spokesperson said: Enquiries to establish the full circumstances of the incident remain ongoing and a report will be submitted to the Procurator Fiscal.

A spokesman for Stena Line said: "Stena Line can confirm a man overboard incident occurred (on Saturday) afternoon at approx. 5.30pm on the Stena Superfast VIII vessel as the vessel approached its destination of Loch Ryan Port, Cairnryan.

"Emergency response procedures were initiated, all relevant authorities, including the Coastguard and Police Scotland were informed and a search and rescue operation was launched."

A spokesman for the Coastguard added: "HM Coastguard was requested to assist the Stena Superfast 8 ferry (on Saturday) evening after a person fell overboard in Loch Ryan."
Between Monday and Thursday, gardai closed off public access to Slieve League as part of the search (stock image)

Gardai are investigating allegations that a Northern Irishman who has gone missing in mysterious circumstances is suspected of making unwanted advances to a woman  resulting in him being beaten with a rock, before his body was dumped elsewhere.

The missing man, who is aged in his early 60s, was socialising with a woman in her 20s and a male in his 30s when he allegedly made advances towards the female, sparking the savage beating at a house in Killybegs.

The alleged attack took place last Sunday.

Gardai became aware of the allegation after the woman at the centre of the investigation phoned a friend later, telling her what had happened. However, it is understood that this friend recorded the conversation and passed it on to gardai.

In the recording, it is believed, the woman says the Northern Irish man was beaten around his head with a rock and his body was later dumped around the Slieve League cliffs.

This sparked a search as well as the arrest later of the man in his 30s, as well as the woman in her 20s.

Both suspects have addiction issues, according to security sources. They were later released without charge.

A car crashed in the village of Fintown last Sunday, resulting in the mans arrest for alleged drink-driving. The man was rearrested on suspicion of assault as he left Letterkenny District Court, while the woman was arrested at another location.

At the same time, detectives applied to Judge Brendan OReilly for a search warrant to examine the mans car. Splatters of blood were found in the car, and these have been examined and analysed by forensics officers.

A warrant was also secured to examine a property on the outskirts of Killybegs, where the trio are suspected of taking drugs and drinking together on the night of the older mans suspected attack with a brick. It has also emerged that the man in his 30s arrested by gardai is the son of a well-known writer.

The couple were arrested following a tip-off and quizzed over Monday and Tuesday. They were then they were released.

The missing Northern Irish man is understood to have been staying in the Killybegs and Kilcar area before he disappeared.

Between Monday and Thursday, gardai closed off public access to Slieve League, which at this time of year is normally busy with tourists.

The search teams involved gardai and the Irish Coast Guard, supported by the Rescue 118 helicopter and members of the Donegal Mountain Rescue Team.

Late on Wednesday the focus of the search shifted to the nearby Teelin Pier, where the Garda Water Unit carried out searches until Thursday evening.

Gardai have continued to exercise caution around the case, and have not even confirmed they are searching for a missing person but are only seeking information on an alleged assault at Slieve League.

If there has been a fatal assault, a body could surface in the coming days at locations around the nearby coastline.
Michael Cloke, 17, had to borrow wheelchairs at landmarks in Paris when the airline told him they could not find it after the flight on Tuesday.

A NI businessman, John Knipe from Bann Mobility, surprised the mum of a teenager whose wheelchair had been lost by easyJet live on BBC TV by donating a replacement wheelchair

The mother of a teenager whose wheelchair was lost by easyJet said she was speechless after a Northern Ireland man surprised her on live TV with a promise to replace it.

Michael Cloke was flying to Paris from Edinburgh with his mum Gillian on Tuesday when the airline informed him that his wheelchair was lost.

The 17-year-old needs the chair for a heart condition which causes severe fatigue.

He had to rent wheelchairs to get around the French city while on holiday.

The story featured on the BBCs national news at the weekend.

Among those watching was John Knipe, who was so moved by their story that he came forward and offered to provide a replacement.

He broke the news to Gillian live on the BBCs Breakfast show on Sunday morning.

Mr Knipe, who is managing director of Bann Mobility, based in Craigavon, said it was a pleasure to be able to help.

He told Gillian: I heard of your plight yesterday morning regarding a lost wheelchair.

We are a mobility retailer in Northern Ireland, so we as a company have decided to donate a new wheelchair to Michael.

Hopefully tomorrow our dispatch department will get one off to you ASAP  you should have it on Tuesday on your arrival back from Paris."

Michael Cloke, 17, had to borrow wheelchairs at landmarks in Paris when the airline told him they could not find it after the flight on Tuesday.

Overcome with emotion, Michaels mum said she was speechless after the gesture.

Gillian added: Thats fantastic, oh my goodness. My family will tell you Im not often speechless, but I am with this.

It has been difficult. With a wheelchair, you know what youre getting into but without ours, it was just  the whole thing was a guessing game.

We kept finding we couldnt do things, so to have the wheelchair back will be marvellous. John, thank you. Wow.

When asked why hed decided to help, Mr Knipe said: Wed do anything we can to try and help people in Michaels situation and we hope what we have done will help to eliminate some of the disappointment that Gill and family have suffered on this trip to Paris.

A spokesperson for easyJet had said on Saturday: "We are doing all possible to try and locate it and fully understand the inconvenience this will have caused them which we are very sorry for

"The family have advised us they have been using a temporary replacement wheelchair and we have been in contact with them since Tuesday to ensure Michael's wellbeing and see how we can assist them further.

"We will also be offering a gesture of goodwill to apologise for their experience and the delay in reuniting Michael with his wheelchair."
People making their way along the Promenade des Anglais in Nice, France (Andrew Matthews/PA)

Holidaymakers have been advised by a travel expert not to cancel their trips to France following five nights of unrest but to stay flexible and avoid big cities at night-time.

Rioting has spread across the country following the fatal shooting by police of 17-year-old boy Nahel in the Paris suburb of Nanterre on Tuesday.

The UK Government updated its guidance for travellers to France to warn of potential disruption but it does not advise against travel to the country.

Health Secretary Steve Barclay encouraged people considering travelling to France to check the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) for updated advice.

Firefighters use a water hose on a burnt bus in Nanterre, outside Paris (Lewis Joly/AP)

Speaking on Skys Sophy Ridge On Sunday programme, he said: Its something that the Foreign and Commonwealth Office will be monitoring very closely.

They keep regular updates on their website.

And what I would say to anyone concerned about it who is thinking of travelling to France, to keep an eye on the Foreign Office website, there will be regular updates there, and that will keep people informed.

Paul Charles, founder of travel consultancy The PC Agency, suggested people should not cancel their trips as they would not be covered by their travel insurance unless the FCDO advised against travel to France.

He told the PA news agency: Its clearly a nerve-wracking time for those planning to go, its vital to keep up to date with the latest news because its such a fast-moving situation and UK travellers are going to have to be flexible in their planning.

My advice would be to stay clear for the moment of big cities in the evenings, make sure you are not going to areas where there is likely to be large protests taking place and seek advice from the hotel you are staying in or from local websites which are being updated about the situation.

Mont St Michel, on the north coast of France with travellers advised to avoid cities(Martin Keene/PA)

The last thing you should do is cancel your trip because you would not be covered under travel insurance for that because you are still able to travel, flights and ferries are still going, you would suffer quite a financial loss.

The travel advice would have to change from the Government to one of we advise against travel and that is not what they are doing at the moment.

He added: This has the potential to flare up into a much more worrying situation because of the deep frustration in some French cities about the political situation, it could easily get worse before it gets better.

It follows demonstrations about pension reform and what you are seeing now is a widening into other political issues and during hot summer evenings in France this has the potential to get worse.

I wouldnt say dont book a holiday to France, it remains a very attractive place to go but book to go somewhere that is more remote, quieter, that isnt a big city and steer clear of big cities in the evenings.

Travellers are advised to avoid big cities at night-time (John Walton/PA)

The latest FCDO advice states: Since June 27, riots have taken place across France.

Many have turned violent.

Shops, public buildings and parked cars have been targeted.

There may be disruptions to road travel and local transport provision may be reduced.

Some local authorities may impose curfews.

Locations and timing of riots are unpredictable.

You should monitor the media, avoid areas where riots are taking place, check the latest advice with operators when travelling and follow the advice of the authorities.
The Rotterdam Bar is to be demolished for another apartment block why cant we save our cultural treasures?

We should be lovingly restoring history-steeped pubs and venues like these, not bulldozing them

The Rotterdam Bar pictured a few years ago. It's fallen into a state of disrepair since

Suzanne Breen Sun 2 Jul 2023 at 09:45
Russia is now sending special operations (Spetsnaz) troops to the border between Belgorod province and Ukraine to deal with continuing raids by anti-Putin Russian militias based in Ukraine. These raids have been going on for several months and embarrass Russia by demonstrating its lack of border security. This is common because Russia has over 22,000 kilometers of land borders, mostly with little or no border security. This includes nearly 2,000 kilometers of border with Ukraine and 540 kilometers of that is in the Belgorod area. Russia has also sent special operations troops to upgrade defenses on the rest of the border with Ukraine in Kursk and Bryansk provinces.

The raids on the Belgorod are meant to embarrass Putin, not kill Russian soldiers and civilians. Some of the Russian responses to the raids did that too, notably because the forces involved acted like Russian troops everywhere, such as bombing and using artillery in civilian areas, looting (of Russian instead of Ukrainian civilians), etc.. Most of the responses against the Ukrainian-backed Russian militias were ineffectual, which is typical of the Russian Army Putin has created to fight in Ukraine. The Belgorod border is north of the Ukrainian city of Kharkiv. Initially these raids faced no armed opposition. When Russian security forces showed during more recent raids, the Russian troops either retreated or surrendered when confronted by the raiders. This was not unexpected because Russian troops in Ukraine have performed poorly from the beginning. Worse, the raiders were all Russians who, unlike most Russian army personnel in Ukraine, were competent and effective fighters whose motivation was to discredit Vladimir Putin and his war in Ukraine. In response to this the best Russia could do was send about a hundred special operations troops to Belgorod in an effort to increase the effectiveness of the additional border forces already at the border. These Spetsnaz, however, were only more of the same poorly trained and led conscripts who offered no effective resistance to the raiders and behaved badly towards Russian civilians.

Unguarded Russian border areas have become popular with young Russians seeking to leave the country to avoid being mobilized to fight in Ukraine. The thousand kilometer-long Russian border with Finland is a popular area for Russian men to cross and ask for asylum. To control this, Finland is building a fence along its Russian border. This will take over a year to complete and the Finns believe the troubles (war in Ukraine and the impact of economic sanctions) will keep the Russians trying to cross the Finnish border for more than a year, if not longer.
A north Down company director has been ordered to stand trial accused of false imprisonment and assault.

Christopher Espie appeared at Newtownards Magistrates Court on Thursday, confirming he was aware of the charges against him.

The 38-year-old also said he was not objecting to a preliminary enquiry, which is the legal step necessary to elevate any criminal case to the Crown Court.

Espie, from Belmont Park in Bangor and who is a director in an electrical company, faces four charges arising from an alleged incident on May 1 last year.

This includes the false imprisonment of a man he is also alleged to have threatened to kill and assaulted twice.

Espie had originally been charged with kidnap and possessing a firearm, but those offences have been dropped by the prosecution. None of the alleged facts were opened in court, but during a brief hearing, a prosecution lawyer said there was a prima facie case, which was conceded by the defence.

Espie was told that although not obliged to, he had the right to comment on the charges and to call evidence to the court on his own behalf, but he declined.

He was freed on bail with a date yet to be fixed for the next hearing, which will be in Belfast.
Just Stop Oil tries to recruit undercover reporter amid plans for nuisance protests in Belfast
Belfast market stall owner welcomes special visitor as TV personality drops by

A popular pop-up restaurateur has told of her nerves and delight at introducing legendary celebrity chef Rick Stein to Filipino food.

Nallaine Calvo (33) says her body went into shock after discovering she would be cooking her native cuisine for the celebrated TV chef.

Stein visited her pop-up food stall, Kubo, in the trendy Trademarket on Belfasts Dublin Road as part of a new BBC cooking show.

Nallaine Calvo

Ms Calvo said she thought an invitation to take part in the show was junk mail at first, telling Sunday Life: I just thought, Oh thats spam, were just a dinky little micro business, theres no way he would be reaching out, this is spam.

I got the email while I was on holiday so I didnt think too much about it, they said he would be going around the UK trying out different spots and asked if we would like to be involved.

Rick Stein wasnt huge in Canada when I was raised there so I didnt grow up with him, I knew who he was but I didnt grow up with him the way a lot of people in the UK will have done.

I showed my partner and some of my friends and family and they all just started freaking out, I was kinda like, Ok, chill, how big of a deal can it be?

Then I started doing some research and found out more about him and his restaurants over the years... hes like pre-Jamie Oliver and Gordon Ramsay.

Then it started to really sink in, I realised it was legit and replied to the email, I didnt really know what to expect.

Ms Calvo said Rick made a point of visiting her stall on his own before the crew had arrived and later enjoyed a Kamayan, a traditional Filipino communal feast, with her friends and family.

Rick Stein enjoying a Kamayan

She continued: He came down on a Sunday and it was a really fun day, he came on his own before the crew got there and was really lovely.

It gave everyone a chance to meet him without the cameras, my partner was here with a bunch of my friends to sit and eat with us so he could get the spirit of Filipino food.

I got talking to him and hed never had Filipino food before, thats when my body sort of went into shock, I was alright with all the restaurants and fame he had but this was pressure.

I started getting nervous because I knew it needed to be top notch, were confident in our food but obviously we were hoping he would love it.

He tried a few different things and we ate all together, we built a Kaman over two tables and it was a lot of fun.

It was really chill, we kinda forgot the cameras were there, he was really interested in knowing about Filipino food in Northern Ireland.

We spoke a lot about what it was like to open in a city where Filipino food was not really known very well.

He was interested in the community too, it was pretty cool, it was actually really inspiring as well and he gave me some good advice.

Nallaine and Rick during filming

Nallaine, born in the Philippines in 1989, grew up in Toronto, Canada, before moving to Belfast with her partner Paul in 2018.

With his help in the kitchen the business quickly grew in popularity and eventually led to her grabbing a spot in the popular Trademarket open-air business space.

I moved here for love, she added. The funny thing is the majority of expats Ive met here, whether theyre Canadian of Filipino or from elsewhere, they either came here for work or for a partner.

It was just me in my flat at the beginning, my partner would help me out on the weekends but it was mostly me doing everything.

Now we have a team, were not a big team, just a small little group, but we just kind of dish it all out together.

People have been amazing since we started, we have a group of regulars now which is really lovely.

We also have plenty of people who come down who are curious about it and some of our stuff on the menu like banana ketchup.

Its a niche cuisine so I never know if were going to be busy or not, but every time people come down and were flat out it reinforces that were doing something right and were extremely grateful for everyone who comes along.

I would like to have a restaurant one day, people seem to want more and more, but its all timing and luck. Thats whats so great about Trademarket, it kind of helps us test the waters.

Kubo is to feature on Rick Steins new BBC Two show which is due to air next year.
Apparitions terrorising of family in their home saw news crews descend on scene for story thats still unexplained to this day

Front page of the Andersonstown News on the Beechmount haunting

Reports of people being beaten up and having to flee their homes were an almost daily occurrence in the blood-stained Belfast of the 1980s.

But such attacks were usually carried out by masked men of one of the republican or loyalist paramilitary groups  not a violent black-clad Victorian woman who would suddenly appear out of thin air.

That is allegedly what caused the Skillen family to flee their home at 91 Beechmount Grove in west Belfast in June 1989.

The redeveloped Beechmount Grove today

The so-far unexplained experiences of the Skillens made front page headlines and TV news reports in June that year.

Father of the family, John Skillen, reported having his face slapped and his head smashed off the walls and fireplace of the house by the apparition, which suddenly started appearing in the house one day.

What happened was also witnessed by neighbours, friends and even a priest, who were drawn to the house by the bizarre happenings.

But the relentless cycle of tragedy during the Troubles, plus international events  such as the bloody end of the Tiananmen Square protests that month  meant the startling accounts of what was going on in the house were soon forgotten.

The Beechmount case has once again come back to public attention thanks in part to Irish podcast series Real Life Ghost Stories, and helped by members of the Fortean Times online forum, which collects and discusses accounts of strange phenomena.

Its the second poltergeist haunting to have come back to the fore after the infamous alleged haunting at Queens Universitys Alanbrooke Hall which made for a popular episode of hit BBC podcast series Uncanny.

The first mention of unusual goings-on at the long since demolished 91 Beechmount Grove appeared in a small news story on the front page of The Irish News on Wednesday, June 7, 1989.

The first report of the Beechmount case in The Irish News on June 7, 1989

Headlined Belfast ghost scare, it reported 100 men, women and children had gathered outside the house upon hearing what was going on.

It told of older women reciting prayers, while one neighbour said: I dont know what is going on but it is beyond my understanding.

I dont know what is going on in there but one thing I know is that the man who lives there is not the panicky type.

It must have been very strange to frighten him to these lengths.

Following the report it wasnt long before the cameras of UTV arrived, accompanied by reporter Ivan Little.

UTV's Ivan Little reports on the Beechmount poltergeist case

Local weekly paper the Andersonstown News kept up with the story and reported that Saturday how a number of priests had been called to the house to reassure the family.

It also recounted how the spectral woman had smashed a window, locked John in the toilet and knocked a glass from his wife Gretas hand.

Tom Mallon, its ghostbuster reporter, spoke to one neighbour who said: This may all seem like a bit of a joke but this family arent the kind of people to make something like this up.

While the daily media moved on, the Andersonstown News kept on the story, and within two weeks the haunting was so bad the Skillens fled the house, as reported on the papers front page.

Under the headline In the name of God what do you want? No Respite For Haunted Family, it told how the seven-strong Skillen family were now staying with relatives.

Greta Skillen pictured in the Andersonstown News

Greta said the Housing Executive was putting a new family in the property and had little sympathy for their plight.

If we stay in the house at night, shell appear to my husband. Hes been thrown against the wall, my sons have been slapped around the head, she explained to the paper.

My husband asked: What in the name of God do you want? And it said: Get out!

It also reported how a small group of people had maintained a three-week vigil outside the home where they recited the rosary.

John then wrote his own account of what the family experienced in a book entitled Number 91, A Belfast Ghost Story.

The book is now rare with copies offered for sale online recently at almost 100.

Number 91 A Belfast Ghost Story by John Skillen

Excerpts of the book were the basis of two episodes of Real Life Ghost Stories which looked back on the case.

In the self-penned work, Mr Skillen explained how he first saw the woman one night as he came out of the bathroom, but vanished as soon as she appeared, and he put it down to light and shadows.

Later that night, when he went to check the children hadnt left the bathroom taps on before bed, he suddenly found the bathroom plunged into darkness and the door slammed behind him.

Mr Skillen was convinced he could feel the woman stalk around him before the door suddenly opened and he was met by his son.

This was the start of an escalation of unexplained activity in the house caused by the apparition which would quickly turn violent.

The physical interactions began with Mr Skillen having his hair pulled and face slapped as he tried to get to sleep that night.

The next night in one confrontation with the apparition, in the presence of his wife and her friend, it grabbed Mr Skillen and banged his head off the wall.

Mr Skillen recalled her unbelievable strength and how he was just like paper in her hands.

Another attack saw it grab his head and bang it off a radiator, and when another man came to his aid he was punched in the head by the entity and went flying across the room.

Similar incidents would happen over the following days with Mr Skillen being punched and even thrown into the air and against a wall.

The family would eventually leave the house on the advice of a priest who believed staying there would put them at risk.

Before they left a neighbour, Mikey, told Mr Skillen that his wife had seen an apparition in their home about a year before  the description exactly matching that of the woman attacking him.

In two further attempts to return to the house Mr Skillen was again violently attacked by the woman.

The occurrences at 91 Beechmount Grove have never been explained and the area has since been redeveloped.

Its believed Mr Skillen and his wife have since passed away and the Skillen children do not wish to discuss the traumatic events of June 1989.
Copyright 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
The Digitisation Committee of the Bahrain Association of Banks (BAB) has discussed the opportunities and challenges and the potential future of the open banking system in Bahrain

The digital panel discussion titled Catching the Open Banking wave: The opportunities and challenges in Bahrain, brought together experts from the banking, fintech and regulatory sectors. Dr Wajeeha Awadh, Group Chief Digital Officer at Al Baraka Group, moderated the panel.

Dr Yousif Almas, Head of Digitisation Committee at the Association and Group Chief Innovation Officer at Bank ABC, in his keynote address noted that such discussions are important for fostering digital innovation in the financial services sector in Bahrain.

Charting the course

Since Bahrain was the first country in the Middle East to issue open banking regulations, it's good to look at our progress and chart the course ahead with industry leaders and key stakeholders, he said.

Yasmeen Al-Sharaf, Head of the FinTech & Innovation Unit at the Central Bank of Bahrain, highlighted the lack of adequate promotion of open banking among banks as a concern. She urged banks to prioritise open banking in their strategies and to promote the concept. In addition, she indicated that monetisation could be achieved through rewards and loyalty programmes or charging for premium, underlining the need to boost open banking to increase innovation opportunities for the financial services and fintech sectors.

Ali Ghuloom, Group Head of Technology at NBB, emphasised that open banking is an ecosystem responsibility and not only about banks. He noted that there are two types of banks, those who want to go the extra mile and those who only want to comply, suggesting that Machine Learning and AI can be applied to understand customer behavior and generate revenue through fintech partnerships.

As an open banking provider and a representative of the fintech perspective, Dalal Al Rayes, Founder & CEO at Spare, highlighted the lack of clear onboarding processes, lack of user awareness, and friction in user experience as the core challenges that open banking is facing currently, stressing that improvements are needed in the quality of data and interface should be more user-friendly.

Awareness programmes

The forum has come up with recommendations, which included the necessity to focus on providing awareness programmes on the benefits of services that utilise open banking capabilities, encouraging the outlook of open banking as an integrated ecosystem and not only perceiving banks responsible for its adoption, simplifying implementations and unlocking data that are critical for digitising financial services, said Dr Almas.-- TradeArabia News Service
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Young rioters clashed with police late on Saturday and early on Sunday and targeted a mayors home with a burning car as France faced a fifth night of unrest sparked by the police killing of a teenager, but overall violence appeared to be reduced compared with previous nights.

Police had made 719 arrests nationwide by early Sunday after a mass security deployment aimed at quelling Frances worst social upheaval in years.

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The fast-spreading crisis is posing a new challenge to French president Emmanuel Macrons leadership and exposing deep-seated discontent in low-income neighbourhoods over discrimination and lack of opportunity.

The 17-year-old whose death on Tuesday spawned the anger, identified only by his first name, Nahel, was buried on Saturday in a Muslim ceremony in his hometown of Nanterre, a Paris suburb where emotion over his loss remains raw.

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Police officers on motorcycles patrol on the Champs Elysees in Paris (Christophe Ena/AP)

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As night fell over the French capital, a small crowd gathered on the Champs-Elysees for a protest over Nahels death and police violence but met hundreds of officers with batons and shields guarding the famous avenue and its Cartier and Dior boutiques.

In a less-chic area of northern Paris, protesters set off volleys of firecrackers and set barricades alight as police responded with tear gas and stun grenades.

A burning car hit the home of the mayor of the Paris suburb of lHay-les-Roses overnight.

Several schools, police stations, town halls and shops have been targeted by fires or vandalism in recent days but such a personal attack on a mayors home is unusual.

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Skirmishes erupted in the Mediterranean city of Marseille but appeared less intense than the night before, according to the Interior Ministry. A beefed-up police contingent arrested 55 people there.

Nationwide arrests were somewhat lower than the night before, which Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin attributed to the resolute action of security forces.

Some 2,800 people have been detained overall since Nahels death on Tuesday.

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The mass police deployment has been welcomed by some frightened residents of targeted neighbourhoods and shop owners whose stores have been ransacked (Christophe Ena/AP)

The mass police deployment has been welcomed by some frightened residents of targeted neighbourhoods and shop owners whose stores have been ransacked  but it has further frustrated those who see police behaviour as the core of Frances current crisis.

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The unrest took a toll on Mr Macrons diplomatic standing.

German President Frank-Walter Steinmeiers office said Mr Macron phoned on Saturday to request a postponement of what would have been the first state visit by a French president to Germany in 23 years. Mr Macron had been scheduled to fly to Germany on Sunday.

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Hundreds of French police and firefighters have been injured in the violence that erupted after the killing, though authorities have not released injury tallies of protesters.

In French Guiana, an overseas territory, a 54-year-old died after being hit by a stray bullet.

On Saturday, Frances justice minister, Eric Dupond-Moretti, warned that young people who share calls for violence on Snapchat or other apps could face legal prosecution. Mr Macron has blamed social media for fuelling violence.

The violence comes just over a year before Paris and other French cities are due to host Olympic athletes and millions of visitors for the Summer Olympics, whose organisers were closely monitoring the situation as preparations for the competition continue.

At a hilltop cemetery in Nanterre, hundreds stood along the road on Saturday to pay tribute to Nahel as mourners carried his white coffin from a mosque to the burial site.

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His mother, dressed in white, walked inside the cemetery amid applause and headed towards the grave. Many of the men were young and Arab or black, coming to mourn a boy who could have been them.

A man walks past a burned van in the aftermath of protests in Colombes, outside Paris (Christophe Ena/AP)

This week, Nahels mother told France 5 television that she was angry at the officer who shot her son at a traffic stop, but not at the police in general.

He saw a little Arab-looking kid. He wanted to take his life, she said. Nahels family has roots in Algeria.

Video of the killing showed two officers at the window of the car, one with his gun pointed at the driver. As the teenager pulled forward, the officer fired once through the windscreen. The officer accused of killing Nahel was given a preliminary charge of voluntary homicide.

Thirteen people who did not comply with traffic stops were fatally shot by French police last year, and three this year, prompting demands for more accountability.

France also saw protests against police violence and racial injustice after George Floyds killing by police in Minnesota in the US.

The reaction to the killing was a potent reminder of the persistent poverty, discrimination and limited job prospects in neighbourhoods around France where many residents trace their roots to former French colonies  including where Nahel grew up.

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Nahels story is the lighter that ignited the gas. Hopeless young people were waiting for it. We lack housing and jobs, and when we have (jobs), our wages are too low, said Samba Seck, a 39-year-old transport worker from the Paris suburb of Clichy-sous-Bois.

A woman walks past the remains of a bus stop in Colombes, near Paris (Christophe Ena/AP)

Clichy was the birthplace of weeks of riots that shook France in 2005, prompted by the death of two teenagers electrocuted in a power substation while fleeing from police. One of the boys lived in the same housing project as Mr Seck.

New violence targeted his town this week.

As he spoke, the remains of a burned car stood beneath his apartment building, and the town hall entrance was set alight in rioting on Friday.

Young people break everything, but we are already poor, we have nothing, he said.

Nevertheless, he said he understands the rioters anger, adding that young people are afraid to die at the hands of police,
Young rioters in France clashed with police on Sunday and targeted a mayors home with a burning car, injuring members of his family, as the country saw a fifth night of unrest after the police killing of a teenager. However, overall violence appeared to lessen from previous nights.

Police made 719 more arrests, bringing the total number of people detained to more than 3,000 following a mass security deployment aimed at quelling Frances worst social upheaval in years.

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The crisis posed a new challenge to President Emmanuel Macrons leadership and exposed deep-seated discontent in low-income neighbourhoods over discrimination and lack of opportunity.

The 17-year-old whose death on Tuesday spawned the anger was laid to rest on Saturday in a Muslim ceremony in Nanterre, a Paris suburb where emotions over his loss remain raw.

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Vincent Jeanbrun, left, and French prime minister Elisabeth Borne in LHay-les-Roses, south of Paris (Charly Triballeau/Pool via AP)

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The grandmother of the teen, who has been identified publicly only by his first name, Nahel, called on Sunday for an end to the violence that has followed his death.

As night fell on Saturday, a small crowd gathered on the Champs-Elysees to protest but met hundreds of officers with batons and shields guarding the avenue and its boutiques.

In a less chic Paris neighbourhood, protesters set off firecrackers and lit barricades on fire as police shot back with tear gas and stun grenades.

A burning car hit the home of the mayor of the Paris suburb of LHay-les-Roses.

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Police officers patrol in front of the Arc de Triomphe on the Champs Elysees on Saturday evening (AP Photo/Christophe Ena)

Several schools, police stations, town halls and stores have been targeted by fires or vandalism in recent days but such a personal attack on a mayors home is unusual.

Mayor Vincent Jeanbrun said his wife and one of his children were injured in the 1.30am attack while they were sleeping and he was in the town hall monitoring the violence.

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Mr Jeanbrun, of the conservative opposition Republicans party, said the attack represented a new stage of horror and ignominy in the unrest.

Regional prosecutor Stephane Hardouin opened an investigation into attempted murder, telling French television that a preliminary investigation suggests the car was meant to ram the house and set it ablaze.



Firefighters use a water hose on a bus set on fire by rioters in Nanterre, outside Paris (AP Photo/Lewis Joly)

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He said a flame accelerant was found in a bottle in the car.

Prime Minister Elisabeth Borne went to lHay-les-Roses to meet Mr Jeanbrun along with interior minister Gerald Darmanin and other officials, and promised that were going to do everything to bring order back as soon as possible.

Mr Macron planned to hold a special security meeting on Sunday evening with Borne, Darmanin and the justice minister.

Skirmishes erupted in the Mediterranean city of Marseille but appeared less intense than the night before, according to the interior ministry.



Rioters daubed graffiti on a monument commemorating Holocaust victims and members of the French resistance in Nanterre (AP Photo/Cara Anna)

Nationwide arrests were lower than the night before. Mr Darmanin attributed that to the resolute action of security forces.

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Nahels grandmother, identified only as Nadia, said in a telephone interview on Sunday with French news broadcaster BFM TV: People who are breaking things, I tell them: stop, stop.

Dont break windows, buses  schools. We want to calm things down, she added.

She said she was angry at the officer who killed her grandson but not at the police in general. Thank goodness police are there, she said.

The unrest prompted Macron to delay what would have been the first state visit to Germany by a French president in 23 years, starting on Sunday evening.

Hundreds of police and firefighters have been injured in the violence, although authorities have not said how many protesters have been hurt.

In French Guiana, an overseas territory, a 54-year-old died after being hit by a stray bullet.

Mr Macron has blamed social media for fuelling the violence. Frances justice minister has warned that young people who share calls for violence on Snapchat or other apps could face prosecution.
US president Joe Biden will meet Britain's King Charles III and UK prime minister Rishi Sunak when he visits the UK before heading to Lithuania and Finland in an overseas trip from July 9th-13th, the White House said.

A visit to the UK had long been expected and comes after Mr Sunak visited Washington last month for talks Mr Biden.

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President Biden is scheduled to travel to the United Kingdom, Lithuania, and Finland from July 9th-13th.

President Biden will first travel to London, United Kingdom for engagements with King Charles III and Prime Minister Rishi Sunak to further strengthen the close relationship between our nations, White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said in a statement.

British prime minister Rishi Sunak and US pesident Joe Biden met at the White House in June (Niall Carson/PA)

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Mr Biden made a brief trip to Northern Ireland earlier this year to mark the 25th anniversary of the Good Friday Agreement, meeting Mr Sunak for brief talks in Belfast.

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The White House said that after visiting the UK, Mr Biden would then travel to Vilnius, Lithuania from July 11th- 12th to attend the 74th Nato Summit.

On July 13th, President Biden will visit Helsinki, Finland for a US-Nordic Leaders Summit.

The apparently short trip by Mr Biden comes after the US and the UK announced a new partnership, the 'Atlantic Declaration', to bolster economic security.

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Announced during Mr Sunaks visit to the White House, it included commitments on easing trade barriers, closer defence industry ties and a data protection deal.

While both sides used that Washington visit to hail the strength of US-UK ties, Mr Biden has not been afraid of occasionally criticising London.

In May, Mr Biden claimed that he visited Ireland earlier this year to ensure the Brits didnt screw around, amid ongoing US concern about the impact of Brexit on peace in the North.

During that visit, Mr Biden told the Dail that he believed the UK should be working more closely with the administration in Dublin to support Northern Ireland.

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Russia launched a drone attack early on Sunday on Ukraines capital, Kyiv, officials said. It was the first such attack in 12 days.

All of the Iranian-made Shahed exploding drones were detected and shot down, according to Serhii Popko, the head of the Kyiv city administration.

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In addition to the city itself, the surrounding Kyiv region was targeted.

Kyiv regional governor Ruslan Kravchenko reported that one person was wounded by falling debris from a destroyed drone.

Vladimir Putin has received backing following the rebellion by the head of the Wagner group of mercenaries (Sputnik, Kremlin Pool Photo via AP)

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Officials in the Ukrainian capital did not provide an exact number of drones that attacked the city. But Ukraines air force said that across the country, eight Shaheds and three Kalibr cruise missiles were launched by the Russians.

Further south, a 13-year-old boy was wounded in overnight shelling of Ukraines partially occupied southern Kherson province, said Oleksandr Tolokonnikov, spokesman for the Ukrainian administration of the province.

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The child was wounded when the Russian army shelled the village of Mylove on the banks of the Dnieper River in the Beryslav district, Mr Tolokonnikov said.

The child was hospitalised, there is no threat to his life, Mr Tolokonnikov added.

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Shelling of the Kherson province continued on Sunday morning, wounding four people in the regional capital, Kherson.

The regional prosecutors office said that a residential area of the city was targeted by Russian troops operating in the Russia-occupied part of the Kherson province.

At least four citizens were wounded, two of them due to a targeted strike on a high-rise building, the office wrote on Telegram.

Meanwhile, Ukraines military reported that the most intense fighting continued in Ukraines industrial east, with attacks focused around Bakhmut, Marinka and Lyman in the countrys Donetsk province, where 46 combat clashes took place.

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In its regular update on Sunday morning, the General Staff said that over the previous 24 hours, Russia had carried out 27 airstrikes, one missile strike and about 80 attacks from multiple rocket launchers, targeting regions in the north, north east, east and south of the country.

In Russia, local officials reported that air defence systems shot down a drone over the Belgorod region, which borders Ukraine, while the neighbouring Kursk region faced shelling attacks. No casualties or damage were reported.

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Following the drama of Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhins rebellion last week, Russian authorities remained defiant.

Vyacheslav Volodin, speaker of Russias lower house of parliament, the State Duma, said on Sunday that Russian president Vladimir Putin came out of this situation having strengthened his position even more both in the country and in the world.

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Russian society, he said, having passed this test, has shown its maturity. According to Volodin, there was not a single example of someone supporting the rebellion.

But general Sergei Surovikin, the deputy commander of the Russian group of forces fighting in Ukraine, was believed to have been detained days after the mutiny.

It is not clear whether the general, who has long-time links to Mr Prigozhin, faces any charges or where he is being held, reflecting the opaque world of the Kremlins politics and uncertainty after the revolt.

Independent observers and analysts say that Mr Putin may come out politically weakened after first announcing that Wagner would face harsh repercussions, only to later say that the groups forces would not face prosecution. Mr Prigozhin was also allowed to leave Russia for Belarus.
Australia risks falling behind in the race to gain a foothold in the global critical minerals industry, with the US, China and the European Union investing billions into the sector.

IGO Limited acting chief executive Matt Dusci said to be competitive, Australian miners would need help to lower the cost of moving to higher value processing for minerals such as lithium, manganese and graphite.

Two of Australias biggest resource exports - coal and gas - are threatened by the energy transition spurring demand for critical minerals. Credit: ENGIE

We cant compete in deploying capital in Australia if it isnt a free market and there are other incentives that attract capital elsewhere.

Dusci said Australia could compete on operating costs, safety, reliability, environmental standard and emissions, but it was expensive at the first step of building a critical minerals processing plant.
London: Australia has been criticised for siding with China and Russia to oppose a popular plan from a group of Pacific Island nations to tackle carbon emissions from the shipping industry.

The International Maritime Organisation, the United Nations agency that regulates shipping, is meeting in London with representatives from 175 nations expected to forge an agreement to dramatically cut shipping industry emissions. Globally, the industry moves 11 billion tonnes of cargo each year and creates about 1 billion tonnes of greenhouse gasses, about the same amount as Germany or Japan.

The proposal aims to make cleaner fuel more attractive by penalising the dirtier fuel widely used in the industry.

An ambitious proposal conceived and championed by Pacific Island nations including Solomon Islands and Marshall Islands  which has one of the worlds largest shipping fleets registered to its flag  would introduce a $100 per tonne levy on maritime emissions in order to make cleaner fuels cost-competitive with the dirtier heavy fuel oil that is the industry standard.

But The Age and The Sydney Morning Herald spoke to three sources present in closed preliminary discussions who said opposition to the proposal has hardened among a group of about 20 nations including China, Russia, Brazil, Saudi Arabia and Australia. This masthead has seen documentation that confirms their accounts.
More arrests are possible after an alleged crime syndicate tried to import millions of dollars in ketamine to Sydney, via Melbourne, drawing on trusted insiders in the global cargo industry to hide the drugs in French vehicles.

Australian Federal Police on Saturday arrested two men, aged 28 and 29, and charged them with allegedly trying to import $3.36 million of the illicit drug.

AFP officers from Operation Meribel arrested two men, 28 and 29, over an alleged $3.3 million ketamine plot using cars with hidden compartments.

The AFP are still trying to track the source and the ultimate owners of the drugs offshore. But authorities allege they know the criminal syndicate infiltrated a supply chain that was importing commercial vans to Australia.

There is an ongoing investigation into this group, Detective Acting Superintendent Paul Watt told media on Monday.
The NSW governments plans to tackle Sydneys housing crisis will have property developers popping their bottles of Moet.

Light on detail, the proposal promises fast-track approval and a height bonus of 30 per cent for developments that include 15 per cent affordable housing, which is defined as housing for people whose income isnt high enough to pay rent in the area where they live or work.

Theres a fresh appetite for high-rise development but the state government must ensure that its not creating new problems. Credit: Wolter Peeters

So, the Minns government is going to ensure that a narrow group  presumably essential service workers  will qualify for lower rents.

This is positive, but it does nothing for the tens of thousands of young people, with secure incomes  prospective first homeowners  who are priced out of the housing market because they must bid against investors.
Frankly, you should not be allowed to build a Lego house given the manner in which you have conducted yourselves, an angry purchaser wrote recently to property developers Fayad Fayad and his brother Remon.

But like all the other emails solicitor Claudine Watson-Kyme has sent to the pair, she has never received a reply.

The Laneways, a 118-unit block in Rosebery, has been beset by rectification orders. Credit: Edwina Pickles

Remon and Fayad are the sons of Sam Fayad, the once high-flying boss of development giant Dyldam, which had 20 related companies collapse on New Years Eve 2020, leaving debts of an estimated half a billion dollars.

A number of subcontractors owed money have been complaining for years about the lack of action by corporate regulators. In 2016, a Herald investigation revealed that more than a dozen Dyldam-related companies run by Sam Fayad and his brother-in-law Joe Khattar had gone bust, owing the Australian Tax Office millions.
Three men have been hospitalised, one with a knife blade snapped off in his abdomen, after a group of up to five masked men set out to rob people as they left Fortitude Valley nightlife venues in the early hours of Sunday morning, police allege.

One 17-year-old boy has been charged and all available Brisbane detectives have been tasked to help sift through CCTV and witness statements to track down the remaining alleged members of the group.

It was particularly brutal, particularly violent, and  as I say  callous, in the way it was conducted, Detective Superintendent Andrew Massingham told reporters at a midday press conference.

Massingham said the victims did not know one another or, at this stage, appear to know the alleged attackers, who sought to take advantage of them whilst they were vulnerable ... [for] financial gain.
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 The tale of the Picasso painting looted from Saddam Husseins palace had enough of a ring of truth to convince the ruthless Melbourne underworld figure to hand over $500,000 in a wild bid to launder his drug money. The cubist portrait of a woman dressed in blue had supposedly been stolen by Australian soldiers occupying one of the dictators opulent homes after the fall of Baghdad in 2003. Not only was it apparently signed by Pablo Picasso, but the frame still had a decades-old label from a Parisian gallery that had once possessed it. A painting that was claimed to be by Pablo Picasso was at the centre of a notorious drug kingpins attempt to launder money. Smuggled back to Australia, the painting had been kept hidden until a buyer could be found that was willing to risk an investment of hundreds of thousands of dollars to potentially one day reap a windfall of millions if it could be authenticated and then traded in the legitimate art market. The kingpin, who cannot be named for legal reasons because he is currently facing criminal charges over a large-scale drug trafficking operation, had so much dirty money in need of a wash that he considered the dubious Picasso investment worth the risk. Ultimately, the broker disappeared with the $500,000 as the Picasso was set to be smuggled to France to be authenticated. Experts who viewed a photograph of the painting obtained by The Age suggested strongly it was a fake. But this didnt stop the erstwhile underworld investor, who would try again when offered long-shot chances to conceal his criminal profits using other paintings by Picasso and French master Henri Matisse, which also had distinctly dubious origins.

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You cant send a million dollars using DHL. The artwork gives them massive amounts of money in a DHL parcel, an underworld source involved in the art trade said. [These paintings can be] sent overseas in carry-on luggage. [A painting is] better than bitcoin. The shadowy nature of the art market has left it ripe for exploitation by organised criminals, who have added paintings, sculptures and non-fungible tokens (NFTs) to their list of underworld currency and laundering tools, much like property, jewels, cars, luxury goods, casinos and cryptocurrencies. These groups are always looking for new ways to try and conceal this money, Detective Inspector Jennifer Locke from Victoria Polices criminal proceeds squad said. We regularly see syndicates where those involved have purchased designer clothing and accessories or expensive jewellery, and artworks just provide another option for offenders. These criminal syndicates are run like businesses and artworks represent a business investment. An ideal way to hide money

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When Victoria Police and federal law enforcement authorities dismantled the drug empire of the Melbourne-based Notorious Crime Family last year, investigators uncovered signs that the gang was also running a sophisticated sideline in the art trade. George Marrogi was the leader of the Notorious Crime Family. Five artworks by well-known Australian artists Brett Whiteley, Adam Cullen, Ben Quilty and Fred Williams  worth nearly $900,000  were found among a more than $47 million portfolio of ill-gotten assets that also included numerous properties, Rolex watches and a yacht. Police suspect the NCF drug syndicate was using cleanskins  associates without prior criminal convictions  as intermediaries to allegedly convert drug profits into high-value artworks purchased from a legitimate Melbourne art gallery. Organised crime is attracted to art dealing because it is a largely unregulated market where high-value assets can be traded between anonymous parties and paid for in large sums of cash. Paintings are also harder to identify as proceeds of crime by law enforcement. A painting found hanging inside a home or professionally wrapped and stored could be an investment or inherited from a relative. Its an ideal way to hide money, to sit on it. Art is easily hidden, easily traded but hard to trace, said a detective who specialises in investigating organised crime, who cannot be identified speaking about police operations.

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Loading The art market can be easily infiltrated by organised criminals yet is a lot more respectable than crypto and subtler than amassing huge piles of unexplainable cash or boats and cars. Convicted murderer George Marrogi, the founder of the collapsed NCF syndicate, is suspected to have paid for the artworks in cash through an art dealer and a lawyer, keeping his identity as the buyer hidden. Current money laundering and terrorism financing laws do not regulate art dealers and auction houses, despite a recommendation to expand the legislation to include high-value dealers as part of a statutory review 10 years ago. No one can sell a house without it being properly documented. Same with a car. But for a painting, anyone can say anything about a painting, art market and forgery expert Professor Robyn Sloggett said. The law is so thin in this area, so ineffective. Its perfect for money laundering because there are no checks and balances, no regulations around records, no regulation around the veracity of information. Criminal infiltration of the legitimate art industry sometimes extends to the corruption of dealers, who have been found running sophisticated international money laundering operations, according to former Australian Federal Police officer and money laundering expert Chris Douglas, of Malkara Consulting.

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Loading The important characteristic of art is the value is in the eye of the beholder. There is no comparable market value. Douglas said one method was for criminals to pay above the odds for a piece of art to an accomplice dealer, who banks the cash along with funds from other legitimate sales and then transfers the money internationally under the rubric of buying more art for their gallery. The moneys offshore and youve got an alibi about why. Finding the painting is easy. But if theyre laundering by co-mingling of funds, its very, very hard to detect. Sixty-nine kilograms of drugs seized by police from the Notorious Crime Family. While Australia had had its fair share of art cowboys in the past, art adviser and valuer Catherine Asquith, a former Melbourne gallerist, said that contrary to popular belief, the art market wasnt totally unregulated or ignorant of the risks and how to manage them. This is not the Wild West and you will be caught out if you do the wrong thing, she said. Were a small market and not much can transpire without being subjected to some level of scrutiny.

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The Boddington community is growing increasingly concerned by the scale of the mining operation. Credit: Jesinta Burton. Smith said it appeared some plants were stunted in growth long-term, unable to penetrate the clay layer or suffering stress as a result of the changing soil profile, something of particular concern in the face of a drying climate. If anything, Smith said the freshly rehabilitated areas had only seeded doubt about the companys ability to fully restore the forest disappearing on its watch. The speed at which they cleared Marradong forest, within the past decade, was just phenomenal, he said. Its devastating to see the destruction ... the biodiversity in the forests out here cannot be duplicated.

A South32 spokesperson fiercely defended the companys environmental record, telling WAtoday it had cleared both state and federal approvals processes and done everything possible to safeguard the areas natural resources, sponsoring and conducting research and adjusting its species composition to yield the best results. We have and will continually and concurrently rehabilitate land that we do clear to minimise open areas and help to re-establish flora and fauna habitat, the spokesperson said. But its something WAtoday can reveal is already on the regulators radar, with the Department of Water and Environmental Regulation having launched an audit of the ministerial statements the miner operates under. And that probe includes a review of the rehabilitation requirements. Concern about the companys operations among sections of the Boddington community has reached fever pitch in recent months, with dozens now gathering to voice their concerns for the rare flora and eight endangered species impacted by the operations, including the black cockatoo, chuditch and woylie.

The race to save a rare orchid The theft of hundreds of the states rarest orchids from Kings Park in February made headlines and sparked outrage. But the movement of heavy machinery into one of the last known locations for the federally protected Quindanning spider orchid has barely raised an eyebrow outside the small town in which it resides. The move, being made under state government approval granted two decades earlier, is understood to have initially been a contingency plan. But with the environmental watchdog still mulling the companys plans to expand its operation north over the Hotham River, which includes a review of its rehabilitation criteria and the health of the rehabilitated forest ecosystem, the miner has been forced to act to maintain its annual 18 million tonne mining rate.

Smith and several conservation experts fear the move could spell the end for the orchid, a species with a population of just a few hundred which has already suffered under the weight of a rising water table and the infestation of feral animals. He said the orchids discovery in 2004, after having been missed during initial surveys of the mining area, presented an opportunity for environmental stewardship, but that clearing activities now threatened its very survival. Loading The threat has been enough to prompt La Trobe University conservation biology lecturer Dr Ryan Phillips, former Department of Parks and Wildlife biologist Andrew Brown, national conservation officer Dr Eddy Wajon and local veterinarian Dr Josie Sherlock to join Smith in calling on the state government to intervene and bring clearing of the Quindanning Reserve to a halt. It is understood the company has undertaken numerous surveys since the orchid was discovered, the most recent of which occurred in 2022, and has vowed to implement a buffer around known populations within the development area.

South32 branded the expansion plan critical to the sustainability of its operations and the sourcing of metals required for the energy transition. Since the project was first proposed in 2017, South32s planned land clearing has shrunk by 38 per cent, with the miner prioritising the avoidance of threatened flora and fauna because it was the right thing to do. And it has flagged the possibility of further reductions as part of the projects ongoing refinement. But South32 remains committed to its delivery, despite fellow bauxite miner Alcoa vowing to implement an 8300-hectare exclusion zone around the town of Dwellingup, and Rio Tinto scrapping its plans for the jarrah forest entirely amid mounting social pressure to keep pace with rising expectations of environmental protection. Meanwhile, Keith Smith has also implored government agencies and regulators to raise the rehab standards bar if those mining in the forest are to continue.

A state government spokesperson said it recognised the importance of striking the delicate balance between protecting the environment and allowing economy-boosting projects and that South32 was bound by strict conditions when clearing native vegetation which required extensive surveying and the protection of high-conservation areas. Member for the Central Wheatbelt and opposition mining spokeswoman Mia Davies, who has met with concerned constituents, said the alarm was understandable under a state government vowing to stop native forest logging in one breath, and allowing it to continue under certain conditions in another. The government and industry both have a responsibility to provide an assurance and evidence that the conditions prescribed for South32, and any other mining activity, are being met, she said. I support the sustainable management of plantation and native forests through logging and silviculture practices and if done properly, endangered species, old-growth trees and wildlife are preserved for future generations. For Smith, the thought of what might be left for future generations is now fuelling his push for change.
Coalition frontbencher Jacinta Nampijinpa Price has left open the door to working with One Nation leader Pauline Hanson on the written No case to be published in the official Voice referendum pamphlet, after they met in Parliament House last month to discuss Hansons potential contribution.

Hanson wants the No pamphlet to include the claim that the Voice will override the supremacy of parliament, which has been widely rejected by constitutional law experts, as well as unfounded assertions that it could pave the way for a separate Indigenous state and racially exclusive seats in parliament.

Coalition frontbencher Jacinta Nampijinpa Price and Liberal senator Paul Scarr met with One National leader Pauline Hanson to discuss the No pamphlet last month. Credit: Alex Ellinghausen

She has outlined her case against the Voice in a 2138-word essay, which she says she handed to Queensland Liberal National senator Paul Scarr, who also attended the meeting in Prices parliamentary office, during the final sitting week in June before parliament rose for the winter recess.

Price is chairing the Coalition committee that will formulate the No camps written case while Scarr is deputy chair. Their document will form the opposing half of the official Yes/No referendum pamphlet that the Australian Electoral Commission is required to distribute to every Australian household at least 14 days before the vote. There is no legal requirement for the pamphlet to be truthful or accurate.
I have had the immense privilege of knowing three of my great-grandparents. One of them  known as Nana Smith to the great-grandchildren  taught me how to knit, and could thoroughly beat me in Scrabble.

Because I knew so many of my grand and great-grandparents, I have also been a regular visitor to several aged care facilities.

Older Australians should pay more for aged care. Credit: Dominic Lorrimer

Nana Smith spent her ninth decade in a relatively nice establishment, but the facilities my other grandparents lived in were more basic. One was particularly grim.

It was the grim state of many aged care facilities around the country that eventually led to the aged care royal commission. The final, 2800-page report, titled Neglect, highlighted just how bad the system was and made nearly 150 recommendations to fix it.
Labor would be forced to pick culturally diverse and Indigenous candidates under a quota plan that is expected to attract support from across the party at its national conference in August.

Victorias first Indigenous Labor senator, Jana Stewart, who is in the Right faction, is spearheading the push, which goes beyond Labors current gender rules to boost the number of MPs from non-English-speaking backgrounds. Labors Left faction is also mulling a range of diversity target proposals.

Jana Stewart and Anthony Albanese. Credit: James Brickwood

The affirmative action plan would be one of the biggest changes in a generation to how Labor picks its candidates and is designed to make the centre-left party reflect the increasingly non-white face of Australia, where about half the population has a parent born overseas.

It will add to the pressure Prime Minister Anthony Albanese faces at the partys policy platform conference in August, at which party activists will probably push progressive positions on sensitive political issues such as Palestinian statehood, the AUKUS submarine deal and refugee treatment.
Older Australians with large superannuation balances or high-value properties should be paying more for aged care, several major providers say, while warning that any new tax to help fund the ailing sector must be fair to younger generations.

The federal government is probing how it can inject more money into aged care to raise standards and keep up with rising costs, as Baby Boomers enter the system with higher expectations while the taxpaying workforce declines as a portion of the population.

The federal government is probing how it can inject more money into aged care to raise standards and keep up with rising costs.

A taskforce established last month by Aged Care Minister Anika Wells has been charged with considering whether options such as taxpayer levies and consumer contributions could lift quality in a system already costing the government more than $30 billion a year.

Uniting NSW.ACT executive director Tracey Burton said the taskforce would take up the unfinished business of the aged care royal commission, which two years ago recommended a raft of ways to improve care but could not agree on how to fund them.
Alex Prestney keeps a treasured photo of himself and his late brother, Josh, standing in the MCG together and smiling after finishing a half-marathon in October 2017.

They were good mates, 18 months apart in age. Both loved long-distance running and had a friendly rivalry.

On a mission: Alex Prestney trains for his run from Mildura to Melbourne. Credit: Eddie Jim

Alex remembers nearly beating Josh that day, running up St Kilda Road towards the Arts Centre in Melbourne, a few kilometres from finishing the 21-kilometre run at the G.

I made up a fair bit of ground, but I just couldnt catch him, Alex said.
As businesswoman Natasha Oakley and liquor heir Theo Chambers were preparing to exchange vows on Italys Capri island on Friday, word was out back in Sydney that they had already lined up their matrimonial home.

Sources say Ray Whites Ashley Bierman has quietly sold the couple a 1950s villa in Bellevue Hill for about $17 million, making a handsome capital gain for Laura and James Hannan, son of printing magnate Michael Hannan.

The 1950s-built villa in Bellevue Hill has sold off-market for about $17 million. Credit: Domain

Hannan was until recently chief operating officer at leading media marketing and printing company Ovato, which went into administration a year ago. He has since joined the senior executive ranks of wholesaler Yatsal Distributors.
Jakarta: Indonesian President Joko Widodo says he hopes to clinch a landmark deal this week with Australia on electric vehicles that he believes can make the countries major players in a mega-industry dominated by China.

Widodo, known as Jokowi, will arrive in Sydney on Monday for a three-day official visit to Australia during which he will hold leadership talks with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.

Indonesian President Joko Widodo speaks during an interview at the Presidential Palace in Jakarta last week. Credit: Jefri Taragan

In an exclusive interview in Jakarta before he set off, the president said he was hopeful the trip  his first to Australia in more than three years  could produce an agreement for the neighbours to join forces on batteries for electric vehicles.

I will focus on this ... if we can sign, its good for Australia, also for Indonesia, Widodo said.
As part of its growth plans, Ajanta Pharma is looking to enhance its presence across select geographies with high growth potential in Asia and Africa.

In its Annual Report for 2022-23, the Mumbai-based drug maker stated that it intends to rely on its strengths to grow faster in countries where it has a presence with its range of branded generics.

"As we achieve formidable positions in many markets, our strategy now entails enhancing focus on select countries from our geographical presence, which promises high growth potential," Ajanta Pharma informed its shareholders.

These territories offer a large branded generics pharma market size, but the company's presence still remains small, it added.

"We plan to ramp up our presence in these markets and add value to the patients' choices through our differentiated product portfolio," the drug firm said.

The company's branded generics business accounted for 73 per cent of its revenues in FY 2023, with Indian, rest of Asia and Africa contributing 31 per cent, 26 per cent and 15 per cent, respectively.

Also Read Sun Pharmaceuticals to see drop in revenue owing to IT security incident Indian drugmaker denies toxicity in paracetamol syrup exported to Liberia Mankind Pharma IPO to open next week: Check price band, GMP, other details Spiriva approval gives earnings visibility to Lupin; valuations expensive Stocks to Watch: Wipro, Reliance, Ajanta Pharma, Infosys, IRB Infra, REC Welspun India to see over two-fold rise in domestic business by 2026 TVS expects growth momentum to continue this fiscal, economy likely to grow Merger raises HDFC Bank's total business to over Rs 41 trn in FY23 UltraTech Cement Q1 consolidated sales increased by 19.64% to 29.96 MT IREDA posts 36% YoY growth in loan sanctions at Rs 32,586 cr: CMD PK Das

Ajanta Pharma noted that in order to achieve its targets, it has enhanced capital allocation to branded generics businesses across India, the rest of Asia and Africa.

"Our strategic intent is reflected in our efforts during FY 2023 to increase our product filings by three times and enhance team size by 50 per cent in the rest of Asia and Africa markets," it stated.

The company will continue to work on this approach to achieve growth in the coming years, it added.

It also plans to enhance the productivity of existing 4,500 plus field teams spread across India and rest of the world markets by enabling them with more digital tools and helping them get the most out of the growing portfolio, the drug maker stated. Ajanta Pharma posted a revenue of Rs 3,743 crore in FY23.
Amid sluggish demand and declining shipments in the Indian personal computer (PC) market, global PC maker HP  which calls India one of its most-focused geography is witnessing robust growth due to demand from the gaming and creator economy.

HP, with a market share of 33.8 per cent in India has maintained its top spot in the PC market since 2016.
Lenders are in talks with Hazel Mercantile (Hazel), the highest bidder for bankrupt Reliance Naval and Engineering Limited (RNEL), to extend the deadline for payment of Rs 263 crore cash upfront for the company.

If talks fail, the lenders plan to move the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) to seek further directions to re-auction the asset. Hazel has time until July 23 to pay the cash upfront, according to an NCLT order in March this year.

Hazel had bid Rs 2,100 crore for RNEL after the erstwhile Anil Ambani Group company defaulted on loans of Rs 13,000 crore. Of this, it was to pay Rs 263 crore upfront by March; the balance in instalments over five years.

The consortium has so far deposited Rs 30 crore, according to the directions of NCLT Ahmedabad. An email sent to Hazel on Saturday did not elicit any response.

If the company fails to pay in time, we will ask NCLT for another auction, informed a banking source.

In its plea before NCLT, the company said it had lined up investors to raise funds, but the kerfuffle in the capital markets in January this year after the release of a report on an Indian conglomerate by a US-based short seller made it challenging for it to raise funds.

Also Read Biz of moving currency booming, with new revenue streams set to open up Go First seeks interim moratorium, NCLT says no such provision under IBC Swan Energy hits lifetime high after NCLT nod to acquire Reliance Naval Debit card-based ATM withdrawals up 235% since demonetisation: Report This Chris Wood owned stock hit a 52-week low. What's worrying the Street? HP bets big on gaming, SMB deals in India amid PC market headwinds Ajanta Pharma looks to expand ops in high-growth Asian, African geographies Welspun India to see over two-fold rise in domestic business by 2026 TVS expects growth momentum to continue this fiscal, economy likely to grow Merger raises HDFC Bank's total business to over Rs 41 trn in FY23

According to the resolution plan timeline, the Swan Energy group company, which acquired the erstwhile Anil Ambani Group company RNEL last month, has to pay Rs 312 crore by December this year to lenders and another instalment of Rs 196 crore by December next year.

It has agreed to pay another Rs 188 crore by December 2025, Rs 280 crore by December 2026, and the remainder Rs 864 crore by the end of December 2027.

The company was sent for debt resolution under the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC) 2016 in January 2020.

Hazels resolution plan was approved by NCLT Ahmedabad in December last year. Meanwhile, lenders have also initiated talks with asset reconstruction companies to weigh the demand to sell their loans.

Some of the cases in the IBC have been going on for more than five years. Hence, lenders are looking at the option to exit their exposure by selling the loans, said a source close to the development.

In November 2021, banks initiated negotiations to sell their loans to the newly created National Asset Reconstruction Company, but the sale failed to take off.

The company owns a shipyard in Pipavav, Gujarat, and relies on government orders for ships and smaller Coast Guard patrol boats. The industry is dominated by government-owned shipyards, which get the lions share of orders from the Indian defence sector.

WAITING FOR A RESOLUTION



January 2020: Reliance Naval and Engineering sent for debt resolution after it defaults on loans of Rs 13,000 crore

December 2022: NCLT clears Hazel Mercantiles offer of Rs 2,100 crore

March 2023: Hazel seeks an additional four months to pay cash of Rs 263 crore upfront
Chinese tech companies like ByteDance and Tencent are setting up engineering offices outside China. Local hires in these global offices are becoming a norm.

These locally hired engineers typically have limited Chinese language proficiency. It is a challenge for them to understand the Chinese tech terms used in their daily work, and to communicate with their Chinese colleagues.

Here are 5 common Chinese tech terms, along with explanations and examples of usage in a sentence.

Huidu

 hui du

Huidu is a widely used Chinese technical term in companies like Tencent and Alibaba. Huidu means rolling out experimental new features to a small subset of users for testing.

The implication of huidu is that the new feature may be launched officially (at a later date), or scrapped if it did not have the desired outcome.

Huidu in English

The literal translation of huidu is grayscale. Intuitively, huidu represents the transition state between black and white.

Note that huidu can be used to describe product features, functionalities, or code deployment.

When describing a product feature, the close equivalent would be beta release or phased rollout in English.

When used for describe code deployment, canary release is also an accurate translation.

Examples of huidu in a sentence

WeChat is huidu testing a new feature that allows users to register an additional WeChat account with an existing phone number.

Lenovo started huiduing new version of operating system for its tablets.

Lunzi

 lun zi

Lunzi describes tools, libraries or frameworks that have been invented or reinvented multiple times.

Typically it is used for new things that are created to solve a specific problem, but bear resemblance to something existing.

Lunzi in English

The literal translation for lunzi is wheel, and the origin of the word is likely from the English phrase reinvent the wheel.

Despite the apparent origin from English, lunzi as a word has no equivalent translation in English.

The literal translation wheel might be the best candidate.

Example of lunzi in a sentence

Engineers need create lunzi to fulfill KPIs or get promoted.

Lunzi created by others do not fulfil our specific needs.

Chendian

 chen dian

Chendian is not a technical term, but it is commonly used in Chinese tech companies. It means consolidating learnings from past experience.

It also implies coming up with a systematic solution to a recurring problem. The solution can be a new tool, new platform, or a standardized procedure that can be reused.

Chendian in English

The literal translation for chendian is chemical precipitation, drawing from the intuition that things are consolidated from liquid form to solid state.

At the beginning, things are messy and fluid. But as you learn and progress, they because more clear and structured.

There seems to be no equivalent term in English to describe this concept.

Example of chendian in a sentence

Team lead has some expectations for new interns, such as critical thinking, chendian and knowledge sharing.

Our team managed to chendian tools and organizational capabilities from the double 11 sale.

Dapan

 da pan

In Chinese tech companies, dapan is used to describe dashboards with various charts, where you can monitor key system metrics or business metrics in real time.

It is especially important for e-commerce companies like Alibaba and JD who run big sales events like double 11.

Dapan in English

Dapan originally refers to the big screens in stock exchanges showing market data.

The close equivalent of dapan in English would be monitoring dashboard.

Examples of dapan in a sentence

Remember to monitor dapan closely when performing production deployment.

Popular dapan products usually come with WYSIWYG editors.

Maidian

 mai dian

In Chinese companies, maidian refers to embedding of tracking code to monitor and analyse user behaviour.

This is typically required by product and data analytics teams, and the tracking code is embedded in the product by front-end engineers.

Maidian in English

As individual characters, mai means burying, and dian means dots or points. The phrase maidian literally means embedding dots or burying seeds.

The intuition is that by embedding the seed in the product, the user journey can be mapped out later.

It can be translated into tracking, tagging or user data analytics depending on the context.

Examples of maidian in a sentence
Indian imports of crude oil from the Russian Federation, which were 7 per cent cheaper than the Indian crude basket and 17 per cent less expensive than Saudi Arabian crude in May, hit a slight pause in June after reaching an all-time high in May, reveals trade and shipping data. India imported roughly 2.1 million barrels per day of Russian crude in June, down 2 per cent from 2.15 million barrels per day in May, according to data from Paris-headquartered commodity market intelligence firm Kpler.

But imports rose 87 per cent from June 2022 levels, four months after Russia launched an attack on Ukraine, roiling globa
In view of the upcoming assembly elections in Rajasthan later this year, the All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) chief, Asaduddin Owaisi, will address a public meeting in Jaipur on Sunday.

Party chief and Hyderabad MP Asaduddin Owaisi is going to hold a public meeting at Ramlila Maidan in Jaipur late this evening and will launch the party's election campaign in Rajasthan, AIMIM leaders said.

Party's state convenor, Jameel Khan, said that the state executive and state president of the party for Rajasthan will also be announced during this public meeting.

According to Jameel Khan, the preparations for the public meeting are in the final stage, and party workers and office bearers will come from many districts of Rajasthan to participate in it.

He also claimed the gathering of thousands of workers and people in this public meeting.

Recently, Asaduddin Owaisi had also toured various districts of the election-bound state including Tonk to find its political ground in Rajasthan during the upcoming assembly elections.

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Now, through this public meeting to be held late in the evening, Owaisi will set up the organizational structure of his party. He is preparing to field candidates in all the seats of the state in the assembly elections.

In the 2018 Assembly elections, Congress bagged 99 out of 199 seats to wrest power from the BJP in the state.
Union Minister of Education Dharmendra Pradhan on Sunday said 262 new medical colleges were built after the Narendra Modi government came to power in 2014.

Addressing a seminar here, he also said that while the Congress says that they have built 700 Navodaya Vidyalayas in the country, the Modi government has "sanctioned 692 Eklavya schools" in all tribal and backward districts of the country in just nine years.

"From independence till 2014, there were a total of 380 medical colleges across the country, but after the Modi government came to power, 262 new medical colleges were built," Pradhan was quoted as saying in a statement issued by the Delhi BJP.

A research has been done by voluntary organisation Public Policy Research Center (PPRC) on the "achievements" of the Narendra Modi government in the last nine years, and based on that a research paper has been prepared on the "achievements of various departments of the central government" which are being released in collaboration with the local BJP units in different cities of the country, it said.

In this series, a research paper on nine years of Modi government's work in the education and health sectors was released by Union minister Pradhan at the seminar organised by Delhi BJP here.

Pradhan said the Modi government has also done the work of increasing seats in medical colleges.

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He said when the whole world was in the grip of COVID-19, PPE kits were not being made in India, but just two months after the lockdown, "we not only started making PPE kits but also started exporting them to other countries".

The Union minister said that "only one AIIMS was built" in the country during the rule of the Gandhi family, and when Atal Bihari Vajpayee-led NDA government came to power, they built six AIIMS. But, the Manmohan Singh government that ruled for 10 years, "did not build any new AIIMS", he said.

When Modi became the Prime Minister in 2014, "he took a pledge to provide good health services to the last citizen of the country, and today the result is that 15 new AIIMS have been dedicated to the public in the last nine years".

The Union education minister said India is a knowledge-based society consisting of many civilizations. After 34 years, a national education policy was conceived by the Modi government, the story of which had started from 2014 and which was implemented in 2020. Not only this, the Modi government is also going to do the work of building Eklavya Model School at a cost of Rs 45 crore, which will also have a hostel facility, he added.

Delhi BJP president Virendra Sachdeva said today there is a message going all over the world that "India is a rising power and this has been possible only under the leadership of PM Modi".
A 56-year-old ex-serviceman who was sitting on a day-long hunger strike as part of a group to demand benefits under the 'One Rank, One Pension' died at the protest site here on Sunday, police said.

Shiv Singh Bisht was sitting on a one-day hunger strike with fellow ex-service personnel at the district magistrate's office in Chamoli.

According to information from the office of the Superintendent of Police (Chamoli), Bisht's health deteriorated during the hunger strike and meeting on the Collectorate premises.

He was taken to the district hospital where doctors declared him brought dead, the police said.

Ex-service personnel have been agitating to press for their 16-point list of demands, including the 'One Rank, One Pension'.

Virendra Singh, president of the Chamoli District Ex-Servicemen League Organization, said Bisht's death was a sad incident for his family and the organisation.

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The Indian Air Force (IAF) on Sunday rescued two injured civilians from Thajiwas Glacier in Kashmir's Sonamarg area, a defence spokesman said here.

"In a swift and successful operation today evening, IAF ALH Mk III helicopter rescued two injured civilian mountaineers in the nick of time from Thajiwas Glacier, one of whom had suffered multiple fractures, hypothermia and other injuries," the spokesman said on Sunday.

He said Faisal Wani and Zeeshan Mushtaq were spotted by ground party in inhospitable glacier where the helicopter had no landing field and a low hover operation was resorted to.

"The entire operation from request to the IAF to successfully evacuating the persons into IAF hospital ended in little over an hour including to and fro travel," the spokesman said.

He said the Air Force Station Srinagar was in charge of the entire operation from where the helicopter was launched and operation was controlled.

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Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal on Sunday held talks with visiting Justice Minister of Vietnam Le Thanh Long.

In a series of tweets in Hindi, Meghwal said the meeting will further strengthen bilateral ties, including promoting legal and judicial cooperation, between the two countries.

He said the talks were held to mark the 51st anniversary of diplomatic relations between India and Vietnam, and completion of seven years of Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.
Pew Research Center is a nonpartisan, non-advocacy fact tank that informs the public about the issues, attitudes, and trends shaping the world. It does not take policy positions. In its latest survey, which explores views of the US role in the world, including as an economic power, and perceptions of American society, it has surveyed public opinion in 23 countries, including India.

The report says, Americas actions on the world stage have often shaped its global image, and as the survey highlights, public opinion about US foreign policy is often complex, with people seeing both positive and negative sides to American power.

It says: Overwhelmingly, people believe the US interferes in the affairs of other countries; a median of 82 per cent says it does this a great deal or a fair amount. But most also believe the US contributes to peace and stability around the world (a median of 61 per cent).

The report adds that the land of the free and home of the brave is considered the worlds leading economic power in many countries.

A median of 41 per cent says the US is the worlds leading economic power, and this view is especially common in South Korea, Japan, Israel, Poland, India, Hungary, and Sweden, where half or more name the US as the top economy. A median of 33 per cent thinks China is the leading global economic power.

More Indians feel American investment is a net positive for their domestic economy. A larger number of Indians feel the US is a more tolerant society than other wealthy nations. And according to the perception of 41 per cent of Indians, the US is a less dangerous place to live than other wealthy nations.

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A fresh batch of 4,903 pilgrims left the base camp here on Sunday to join the annual pilgrimage to the 3,880-metre high cave shrine of Amarnath in south Kashmir Himalayas, officials said.

With this, a total of 12,807 pilgrims have so far undertaken the pilgrimage since June 30 when Lt Governor Manoj Sinha flagged off the first batch.

Over 8,000 pilgrims offered prayers at the shrine on the first day of the 62-day yatra which commenced from both the twin tracks - the traditional 48-km Nunwan-Pahalgam route in Anantnag district and the shorter but steep 14-km-long Baltal route in Ganderbal district on Saturday.

The officials said 2,557 devotees, including 379 women and 226 sadhus, left in 104 vehicles for Pahalgam, while 2,346 pilgrims left in a convoy of 131 vehicles for the Baltal base camp early today.

More than 3.5 lakh people have registered themselves online for the pilgrimage so far.

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India's top eight cities have witnessed a 22 per cent decline in gross leasing of office space as global companies remain cautious about their expansion plans, according to Cushman & Wakefield.

Real estate consultant Cushman & Wakefield data showed that the gross leasing of office leasing declined to 17.42 million square feet in April-June this year from 22.41 million square feet in the year-ago period as corporates are taking longer time in taking decisions especially for large office space requirements.

However, the gross leasing rose 11 per cent from the previous quarter which saw absorption of 15.7 million square feet.

Anshul Jain, Head of APAC Tenant Representation and Managing Director, India & South East Asia, said, "India's office real estate market continues with its growth momentum. A significant reason for its ability to buck the global recessionary headwinds is the rise in domestic demand."



The entry of new GCCs (Global Capability Centres) and the ongoing expansion of the manufacturing and flex space segments are also helping the office sector widen its demand base, he added.

"We can expect the exuberance seen last few quarters in office real estate to continue, if the momentum holds," Jain said.

As per the data, the gross office space leasing fell in five major cities and grew in three cities during April-June period of this year compared with the corresponding period of the previous year.

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In Mumbai, the gross office space leasing fell 9 per cent to 2.73 million square feet in April-June from 2.99 million square feet in the year-ago period.

Delhi-NCR saw a 5 per cent growth in gross absorption to 3.59 million square feet from 3.41 million square feet.

The gross office space leasing in Bengaluru plunged 56 per cent to 3.03 million square feet from 6.9 million square feet on account of higher base effect and slow decision making by IT companies amid global uncertainties.

Chennai too saw a 41 per cent decline in office leasing to 1.58 million square feet from 2.66 million square feet.

The gross office space leasing rose 6 per cent in Pune to 3.11 million square feet from 2.93 million square feet.

In Hyderabad, the office demand fell 2 per cent to 2.65 million square feet from 2.71 million square feet.

In smaller office market, Kolkata saw a 32 per cent decline in leasing to 2,18,235 square feet from 3,20,719 square feet.

In Ahmedabad, the gross office space leasing grew 3 per cent to 4,85,822 square feet during April-June this year from 4,71,320 square feet in the year-ago period.

Commenting on the report, coworking space operator Urban Vault co-founder Amal Mishra noted that corporates are cautious in taking office space from developers/landowners for a long-term lease period because of global headwinds.

"However, enterprises are looking at managed office space from coworking operators to cut down on capital expenditure and avoid hassle on the management of their real estate space," he said.

As a result, the share of leasing by coworking operators in the overall gross absorption of office space is inching up gradually and has reached anywhere between 15-20 per cent, Mishra said.

"The trend is likely to continue going forward, driven by the rising demand of flexibility and convenience from office occupiers," he said.
Yascha Mounk in Persuasion:

A few years ago, I listened to Jim Yong Kim, then the President of the World Bank, address the Milken Global Conference, a gathering that is about as plutocratic as it sounds. At the start of his remarks, Kim told the multimillionaires and billionaires who made up the bulk of the audience an anecdote, which he seemed to consider charming, about how he got his job.

One day, while Kim was still in his previous job as the President of Dartmouth College, his assistant informed him of an unexpected phone call from Tim Geithner, the Secretary of the Treasury. Kim immediately reached for a pen. Naturally, he said, he expected that Geithner would ask for some nephew or family friend of his to get special consideration in the admissions process, and Kim wanted to be ready to jot down the applicants name. But to his astonishment, that wasnt the case: Geithner was actually calling to see whether he might be interested in running the World Bank! (Cue appreciative chuckles from the audience.)

What was remarkable about this anecdote is just how normalized these forms of influence-peddling are in Americas elite.

More here.
Within 10 days of 15 parties resolving in Patna that they would fight the 2024 Lok Sabha elections unitedly against the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Sharad Pawar-led Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) suffered a split on Sunday, with his nephew Ajit Pawar being sworn in as a deputy chief minister in the BJP-Shiv Sena coalition government in Maharashtra.

Eight other NCP MLAs, including senior leader Chhagan Bhujbal, the partys OBC face, took oath as ministers at a ceremony at Raj Bhavan in Mumbai in the afternoon. Sources in the Raj Bhavan told PTI that Ajit had the support of 40 of the NCPs 53 MLAs and six of its nine MLCs. This is the fifth occasion -- including once in 2019 when he staged a late-night coup only to return to his uncles fold later -- that he has been appointed a deputy CM.

The partys Rajya Sabha MP and working president Praful Patel, considered close to the senior Pawar, attended the oath-taking ceremony. The split in the NCP comes amid speculation of a reshuffle of the Union Cabinet where the BJP may give representation to several of its allies, including those from Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena and the Ajit Pawar-led NCP faction. Elections to the 288-member state Assembly are due in October 2024.

The development was a jolt to the leadership of Sharad Pawar, who had tried to prevent such an eventuality in May when he quit as party chief only to take back his resignation days later after party leaders and workers protested. He and his daughter Supriya Sule attended the June 23 Patna meeting of the opposition parties.

Sharad Pawar in the evening said he would rebuild the party and announced a party meeting on July 5. The Congress would also get its legislators together in a couple of days.

Sanjay Raut of the Uddhav Thackeray-led Shiv Sena faction said the BJPs desperation to split the NCP betrayed that the Eknath Shinde-Devendra Fadnavis government was unstable. Opposition leaders said the events were further proof of the BJPs misuse of central probe agencies. They pointed to Prime Minister Narendra Modis speech in Bhopal on Tuesday during which he listed alleged scams involving leaders of opposition parties, including that of the NCP leadership.

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On June 10, on the 25th foundation day of the NCP, Sharad Pawar appointed Sule and Patel as working presidents. While Sule was seen as the successor of 82-year-old party patriarch, Ajit -- who had run the party in Maharashtra and was the leader of the opposition in the Maharashtra Assembly -- was not entrusted with any responsibility.

Addressing reporters after taking the oath, Ajit said there was no split in the NCP and it would contest all future elections on the NCP's name and symbol. If we can go with the Shiv Sena, we can go with the BJP, as well. The same thing happened in Nagaland, he said. In Nagaland, the NCP decided its six MLAs would support the NDPP-BJP government. The Cabinet portfolios will be announced in a couple of days, he said.

Apart from Ajit and Bhujbal, others sworn in as ministers were Dilip Walse Patil, Hasan Mushrif, Dhananjay Munde, Aditi Tatkare, Dharmarao Atram, Anil Patil, and Sanjay Bansode.

Maharashtra CM Shinde said: When a deserving party worker (Ajit) gets a secondary role, such things happen. Now the double engine government has a third engine. The state will sprint (on the path of development). Now, we have one CM and two deputy chief ministers. This will help faster development of the state," he told reporters. BJPs Fadnavis is the other deputy CM.

Earlier in the day, Ajit met some party leaders and MLAs at his official residence 'Devgiri' in Mumbai. Sule was among the leaders present at the meeting but left early.

Congress General Secretary Jairam Ramesh said: "Clearly, the BJP's washing machine has resumed its operations. A number of new entrants into the BJP-led alliance in Maharashtra today had been facing serious corruption charges with the ED, the CBI, and Income Tax authorities after them. Now they have all got a clean chit.
Fanned by the leaders of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and its allies, the events in Mumbai triggered speculation in Patna that a similar fate awaited Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar's party, the Janata Dal (United). On Friday, Kumar met legislators of his party individually. He is also in the process of meeting his partys Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha MPs. JD(U) leaders said the meetings were to prepare for the forthcoming Bihar Assembly session and the monsoon session of Parliament.

However, BJP Rajya Sabha MP Sushil Kumar Modi said Kumar was nervous as the JD(U) would soon disintegrate. Rashtriya Lok Janata Dal leader Upendra Kushwaha, who was earlier in the JD(U), claimed the JDU was on the cusp of merging with the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) and several JD (U) leaders had reached out to him and the BJP.

In the 2019 Lok Sabha polls, the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) won 39 of Bihars 40 seats, with the BJP winning 17, JD(U) 16 and Lok Janshakti Party 6. In 2022, the JD(U) parted ways with the NDA, forming the grand alliance government. However, it is unlikely that the JD(U) would get to contest on 16 seats in the 2024 elections as part of the six-party grand alliance, which includes the RJD, Congress and three Left parties, making its sitting MPs uncertain of their political future.

JD(U) spokesperson K C Tyagi said development in Maharashtra was the result of the fear within the BJP because of Kumars opposition unity efforts and that it would have no impact nationally.
Congress MP Pradyut Bordoloi has written to fellow legislators cutting across party lines in the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha, urging them to demand a discussion in Parliament on the ensuing crisis in Manipur and pursue legislative interventions seeking accountability from the Centre and the state government.

Bordoloi, who is a Lok Sabha MP from Assam's Nowgong, said with the Monsoon Session of Parliament scheduled to begin on July 20, he has written to all his colleagues in the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha across state and party lines, urging them to lend their voice to the demand for a discussion on the crisis in Manipur.

"I am writing to you in the wake of devastating and escalating ethnic violence ensuing in the state of Manipur. Violence has gripped the Northeastern state since the 3rd of May 2023, and the situation in Manipur has deteriorated significantly over the past three months, with reports of widespread violence, human rights abuses, and loss of innocent lives," Bordoloi said in his letter dated July 1.

The escalating conflict between various factions, the armed forces, and insurgent groups has created an environment of fear, insecurity and unrest, adversely affecting the lives of the people living in Manipur, he said.

Bordoloi said the impact on the socio-economic fabric of Manipur is devastating, with education, healthcare and livelihoods being severely affected.

"With the monsoon session of Parliament approaching. I urge you to consider raising a demand for a discussion in Parliament on the ensuing crisis in Manipur and hope that MPs across party and state lines will pursue various legislative interventions seeking accountability from the Union and State Governments for their actions (or lack thereof)," the Congress MP said in the letter posted on Twitter.

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"By doing so, you will not only bring the situation to the forefront of national discourse but also provide a platform for discussions, debates, and ultimately, viable solutions to resolve the conflict," he said.

In this time of crisis, Bordoloi said he requested the lawmakers to use their platform as an MP, which carries weight and influence, to amplify this issue both inside and outside Parliament so that it may receive sufficient national attention.

Tagging Bordoloi's tweet and letter, Congress general secretary Jairam Ramesh said on Twitter, "We certainly hope that there will be a discussion."



The Congress has said it will take up the Manipur issue strongly in Parliament and would seek a discussion on it. Some Opposition MPs had also recently demanded that the Manipur situation be discussed by a parliamentary committee.

The Congress has blamed the BJP and its "divisive politics" for the present situation in the state.

Nearly 120 people have died and more than 3,000 injured in the ethnic violence in Manipur since May 3.

Clashes first broke out on May 3 after a Tribal Solidarity March was organised in the hill districts to protest against the Meitei community's demand for Scheduled Tribe (ST) status.
Delhi minister Atishi on Sunday urged Lieutenant Governor V K Saxena to "withdraw his orders" to demolish religious structures in the national capital.

The fresh request by the PWD minister came after a temple and a mazar were removed amid heavy police deployment in northeast Delhi's Bhajanpura Chowk Sunday morning to pave the way for the construction of a flyover.

Police said the decision to remove the two structures was taken at a "religious committee" meeting a few days ago and a proper dialogue was held with the residents and local leaders.

Atishi tweeted about the demolition of the religious structures.

"LG sir: Few days ago, I had written a letter requesting you to withdraw your decision to demolish temples and other religious structures in Delhi. But today a temple in Bhajanpura was demolished again. I request you again to ensure that temples and other religious structures are not demolished in Delhi. People's faith is attached to them," she said in a tweet in Hindi.

The AAP leader had written to Saxena on June 22 requesting him to withdraw the decision of demolition of religious places. Her letter came following a row between locals and the authorities in east Delhi's Mandawali area when officials allegedly removed the grille encroaching upon the footpath near a temple on June 22.

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Talking to PTI Video, she said former Delhi deputy minister Manish Sisodia had received a file regarding demolition of religious structures in January this year but he rejected it saying that the site plans can be modified.

"But LG sir sidelined his (Sisodia's) suggestions and instead said that this is a law and order matter. The files pertaining to such structures should be sent directly to him rather than through the elected government," Atishi said.

Later in the day, AAP MLA Kuldeep Kumar addressed a press conference and echoed similar views. He also demanded that the decision to demolish temples should be withdrawn.
The National Capital Civil Services Authority (NCCSA), set up by the Centre through an ordinance, has been reduced to a "complete farce" as bureaucrats are "overturning" Delhi chief minister's decisions and "dictating" their own will, the CMO said on Sunday.

The statement by the Chief Minister's Office (CMO) came two days after the second meeting of the NCCSA during which two member-bureaucrats "did not oppose" Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal's stand but later on cancelled his decisions.

However, LG Secretariat rejected the CMO's claims and said their statement is not giving "true picture" of developments that took place in the civil services authority's meeting.

"A narrative is being projected that officers are not listening and need absolute control. NCCSA shall release the draft minutes to the press to verify the truth in public domain," the LG Secretariat said.

The three-member NCCSA was set up by the Centre through the National Capital Territory of Delhi (Amendment) Ordinance, 2023, promulgated on May 19 to create an authority for transfer and posting of Group-A officers in Delhi.

It comprises the chief minister as chairperson, with the chief secretary and principal secretary (home) as members. It was bestowed with powers to take decisions by a simple majority.

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"However, this simple majority has enabled the bureaucrats to override the CM's decisions, effectively granting them unchecked power over the authority's operations. Consequently, the Chief Minister's voice, representing the will of the elected government and the people of Delhi, finds itself in the minority within the NCCSA," the CMO said in the statement.

During the June 29 meeting, Kejriwal expressed concerns over pending transfer-posting proposals and issued directives for request transfers of women officers. He also recorded objections to the removal of "competent officers" from the Education Department, the statement said.

Eleven women officers had requested for transfers on sympathetic grounds, it said, adding the chief minister supported it, noting that working women handle both office and home, and therefore their pleas must be considered favourably.

The statement claimed the two bureaucrats did not oppose the CM's stand during the meeting. "However, regrettably, when finalizing the minutes of the meeting, the Chief Secretary and Principal Secretary (Home) callously overturned all of the Chief Minister's decisions, proceeding with their own agenda instead."



As a result, the 11 women officers have been denied transfers despite compelling reasons, and competent officers are being removed from the Education Department, jeopardising the progress made thus far, the CMO statement noted.

"The National Capital Civil Services Authority has been reduced to a complete farce with bureaucrats dictating their own will and overturning CM's decisions," the statement said, alleging a "carefully orchestrated" plan to undermine Delhi's education revolution and impede the elected government's achievements.

It is functioning under the stated chairpersonship of the chief minister even though none of the decisions made by it align with the CM's endorsement, the statement said.

"In the same meeting, the Chief Minister proposed that the posting requests made by Ministers Saurabh Bharadwaj and Raaj Kumar Anand be recommended by the Authority. However, the bureaucrats again took advantage of their majority and refused to entertain the matter in the meeting," the CMO statement said.

Rebutting the charges, the LG Secretariat said the request of women officers for transfer from sub-registrar was not part of the agenda and it was agreed in principle that it will be brought in the next agenda.

"In the current agenda, one woman SR was proposed for change as the agenda contained the name of only one woman officer who has been adjusted against one existing SR. Hon'ble CM wanted two officers to be posted in ministers' office and one of them is having a penalty from vigilance angle. Hon'ble CM office informed (verbally) that this detail should not be mentioned in the minutes," the Secretariat said.

The LG Secretariat also shared the agenda items that were on the list --transfer/posting of Officers in Grade-I (DASS), transfer/posting of Forest Service Officials (IFS) and setting up of High Powered Committee for capacity building.

"As for the agenda regarding transfer of IFS officers, Hon'ble Chief Minister kept the file for recording his views. The agenda regarding capacity building of officers was not discussed," it said.

Following the meeting on June 29, the government officials had said there was a proposal to remove some competent officers from the Education Department, which the chief minister also objected to and stopped, an official said.

However, the CMO on Sunday said that the overturning of CM's decisions by the bureaucrats means competent officers are being removed from the Education Department.

The LG Secretariat said during the meeting, Kejriwal had suggested that no good officer should be transferred out from the Education Department of the government without any substitute.

"However, there is no proposal to transfer any officer from Education Department, GNCTD. As only those officers who are not working in Education Department, but merely drawing salary without their physical presence in the department are proposed for transfer so as to facilitate for drawal of salary from proper salary head. Regarding two officers who are proposed for transfer from the Election Department, Chief Minister also suggested that these officers who are not clear from Vigilance angle should not be posted in Education Department, GNCTD which is accordingly amended," the Secretariat said.

It reiterated that a lie is being spread that NCCSA is transferring officers from Education Department.

Meanwhile, Delhi BJP president Virendra Sachdeva said the problem with CM Arvind Kejriwal is that he wants entire administrative system to run as per his dictates.

"He has no respect to constitutional or administrative norms. He wants to run administration on his whims, and runs the only government in the country that steals files from officers' chambers after midnight," he added.

The first meeting of the NCCSA was held on June 20.

Addressing a press conference following the first meeting of the NCCSA, Kejriwal had termed the NCCSA a "farce" and a "conspiracy to not let the elected government do any work in Delhi".

He had claimed that through the NCCSA, the Centre wants to make it look like the body takes important decisions for Delhi mutually. But in reality, that is not the case, he had said.

The Centre's National Capital Territory of Delhi (Amendment) Ordinance came a week after the Supreme Court handed over the control of services in Delhi -- excluding police, public order and land -- to the city's elected government.
Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Sunday alleged the amount of "loot" by the Narendra Modi government in the last nine years surpassed the loot of India committed by Britishers in 250 years during their rule.

Addressing a public rally at Bilaspur in Chhattisgarh, where Assembly elections are due by this year-end, Kejriwal also targeted the Congress for "looting" the country over 75 years.

He appealed to people to vote Aam Aadmi Party to power to rid Chhattisgarh of corruption.

Modi ji became angry at me saying I am distributing 'revdis' (welfare sops) in Delhi. Yes, Modi ji I am distributing. But your people are looting revdis and taking it to their homesWhy are you worried when I am putting revdi in the hands of poor?" Kejriwal asked.

He alleged the prices of essential commodities are touching the sky.

"Vegetables, milk, flour everything became costly. Have you (people) ever thought about why prices are rising? Modi ji has slapped so much tax which was unprecedented after independence. Modi ji has not even spared tea, coffee, milk, oil etc.., Kejriwal claimed.

Also Read Delhi BJP seeks Maliwal's removal for impartial probe of molestation charge Will answer all questions, says Kejriwal as he appears before CBI Ordinance row: Congress leaders from Delhi, Punjab meet Kharge, Gandhi Punjab govt has collapsed, AAP CM Bhagwant Mann should resign: BJP leader Amritpal's arrest result of month-long effort of Punjab Police, govt: AAP People feel safe with PM Modi due to terror attacks under UPA: Shah Decision to be taken against those who violated party line: Sharad Pawar BJP's 'washing machine' has resumed operations: Cong's dig over Ajit Pawar NCP joining Maha govt is start of Eknath Shinde losing his CM's post: Raut Will fight future polls on NCP symbol, says Maharashtra Dy CM Ajit Pawar

He said even the British didn't impose taxes on milk and other essentials (during their rule in India). We have never seen tax on food items in 75 years after independence, the AAP leader claimed.

"Whom he (PM Modi) is giving after collecting so much tax? He has 'friends'.. Modi ji waived off Rs 11 lakh crore worth of debt of his friends. Modi ji, you are collecting tax on milk and buttermilk and openly giving the entire money to your friends.

"The Modi government has looted so much in nine years that even Britishers did not loot in 250 years. Even the Congress did not loot this much in 75 years," he added.

Kejriwal wondered whether the prime minister would have waived "Rs 11 lakh crore debt" for free.

"While Modi ji commits dishonesty, AAP leader Manish Sisodia is sent to jail," he said.

The then Delhi deputy chief minister Sisodia was arrested in March in connection with a money laundering case linked to the alleged Delhi excise policy scam.

"Modi ji ruined the country in ten years. Has the country benefited from demonetisation? They had claimed corruption and terrorism would end after demonetisation. Has this happened? If there was an educated person, he would never have implemented noteban, Kejriwal said.

He highlighted the achievements of the AAP government in Delhi and Punjab.

God has given everything to Chhattisgarh except good politicians and good political parties. Had the BJP and Congress government done good work in Chhattisgarh in 23 years, every family of the state would have become rich, Kejriwal said.

He exhorted people to elect AAP in Chhattisgarh if they want free electricity for 24 hours, excellent schools and quality education, free healthcare, free water, free bus travel for women, free pilgrimage facility for the elderly and employment to youth on the lines of Delhi.

Taking a dig at PM Modi's education qualification, Kejriwal narrated the story of a fourth-class pass child from a poor family who rose to become the king of a great country and then ruined it.

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann was also present at the rally.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi will lay foundation stone for various development projects at Warangal in Telangana on July 8, Union Tourism Minister G Kishan Reddy said on Sunday.

He said Modi would visit the famous Bhadrakali temple before attending the events and would also address a public meeting.

The Union Minister said the Centre has, in principle, decided to establish a wagon manufacturing unit at Warangal.

"I am conveying this with happiness to people of Warangal on behalf of Narendra Modi ji that wagons manufacturing unit is going to come up in Warangal town," he told reporters at Warangal.

He said the proposed unit to be set up by the Centre would have the capacity to manufacture 200 wagons per month. The cost of the unit, its employment potential and other details would be announced soon, he said.

"But, in principle, Government of India, decided to establish wagon manufacturing unit at Warangal city, (with) per month more than 200 wagons manufacturing capacity," he said.

Also Read SSC question paper leak: Plea seeking custody of Telangana BJP chief filed Together we stand stronger: PM Modi as he leaves for US on 1st state visit Tourism Minister G Kishan Reddy stable, under observation at AIIMS Telangana wants freedom from nepotism: Union Minister G Kishan Reddy Viveka murder case: CBI issues fresh notice to Kadapa MP YS Avinash Reddy 'Sabka saath sabka vikaas' a sham: Akhilesh pitches for caste survey Karnataka CM vows to get caste-wise census report commissioned in 1st stint Demand discussion on Manipur in Parliament: Cong MP writes to colleagues India today stands as political, economic, cultural power: Rajnath Singh 40+ MLAs, bulk of NCP MLCs support Ajit Pawar as per letter to Raj Bhavan

The wagon manufacturing unit is an addition to a periodic overhauling unit which would be established in the city, he said.

The Prime Minister has agreed to perform 'bhumi puja' for the wagon manufacturing unit, he said.

The other development works includes laying foundation for National Highway projects, the Union Minister said.

Alleging that the BRS government in Telangana was spreading false campaign about the NDA government at the Centre, he asserted that the Modi government does not discriminate among states.
Amid the row over the implementation of the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) in the country, Congress MP Pramod Tiwari on Saturday said that the UCC is BJP-led Central government's plan to divert people's attention from important issues like price rises, unemployment, and corruption.

He said that the Congress party will decide its stand on UCC after party-level strategy meeting.

"The government, which is answerable for price rises, unemployment, and corruption, will divert people's attention from important issues. We will meet and decide what our action plan will be. Right now, it's just word of mouth. We will decide when the draft is ready. We will decide on the goodwill of the 130 crore population," said Congress MP Pramod Tiwari.

Meanwhile, Himachal Pradesh PWD Minister Vikramaditya Singh said that the party will be supporting UCC whenever it comes and that the Congress has always contributed towards taking unity and integrity forward.

"We have said that whenever the Uniform Civil Code comes, we will support it. The Congress Party has always contributed towards taking unity and integrity forward," he said. Vikramaditya Singh is the son of state Congress chief Pratibha Singh and the late Virbhadra Singh, a six-time Chief Minister of the hill state.

Vikramaditya Singh had, however, slammed the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) for starting a new debate to mislead people. "Manipur has been burning for over a month and is on the verge of civil war. But no action has been taken against the Chief Minister. The BJP doesn't speak of the real burning issues in the country and starts a new debate to mislead people," he said.

Also Read Uniform Civil Code: Third prong in BJP's three-point core agenda All states in country should implement Uniform Civil Code: U'khand CM Dhami Framing UCC for U'khand will strengthen social fabric, says ex-SC judge Law Commission considering to work on UCC issue: Ex-Justice Ranjana Desai 90% UCC draft complete, panel to submit proposal by June 30: Uttarakhand CM CM Mann asks Bajwa to clarify stand on HP govt's 'claim' over Chandigarh Uniform civil code undesirable at this stage: Congress' Jairam Ramesh Bhim Army chief Chandra Shekhar Aazad will be provided security: UP Dy-CM Aaditya Thackeray's core team member Rahul Kanal joins Shinde-led Shiv Sena Delhi Cong to focus on door-to-door interactions ahead of 2024 LS polls

Meanwhile, the Congress Parliamentary Strategy Group will hold a meeting on Saturday at former All India Congress Committee (AICC) chief Sonia Gandhi's residence at 10, Janpath, in New Delhi, ahead of a discussion by the Parliamentary Standing Committee on the UCC on July 3.
NCP leader Ajit Pawar, who took oath as Maharashtra's deputy chief minister on Sunday, said his party decided to join the Eknath Shinde-led government in the interest of the state and the country, and praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership. Maintaining that there was no split in the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), Pawar said all the elected representatives (of the party) have supported the decision to join the government, and that they would contest all the future elections on the NCP's name and symbol.



Pawar took oath as the deputy chief minister, while eight MLAs of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) took oath as ministers in the Shinde government earlier in the day. Defending his decision to share power with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in the state, he told reporters, "If we can go with the Shiv Sena, then we can go with the BJP as well. The same thing happened in Nagaland as well." After the 2019 Maharashtra Assembly polls, the Shiv Sena (undivided) had joined hands with the NCP and the Congress to form the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) government, which collapsed in June 2022 after Eknath Shinde's rebellion against Uddhav Thackeray's party leadership.

"All the (NCP) MLAs are with us and also informed the top leadership. In a democracy, majority opinion has to be respected," Pawar said.

When asked about NCP chief Sharad Pawar's views on joining the Shinde-led government, he said new leadership should come forward.

"All the MLAs, MPs and party workers are with us. We have communicated our decision to all the elected representatives. Some of them are out of station while a few are out of the country. Most of them will reach Mumbai by this evening," he added. The cabinet portfolios will be announced in a couple of days and we will immediately start working on it, he said.

"We have a huge country and population. That is why we took the decision to join hands with the BJP-Shiv Sena government in the interest of the state and the country," Pawar said.

Talking about PM Modi, he said that after 1984, it was for the first time that one leader has gained huge popularity and his leadership was widely accepted.

Also Read When Shinde was MVA minister he did not remember morality: Supriya Sule Won't be in govt if Pawar joins BJP with NCP group: Shiv Sena spokesperson Politics overshadows governance as Shinde govt completes year in office MVA members protest against LPG price hike in the legislature complex Shiv Sena feud to find echo in Budget session of Maharashtra legislature Party MLAs taking oath in Shinde govt have no official support: NCP Not against UCC, but don't endorse BJP's way to implement it: Mayawati NCP's Ajit Pawar sworn in as deputy CM in Eknath Shinde-led Maha govt Congress committed to progress of Telangana, says party Prez Kharge BJP top leaders call Yediyurappa amid delay in electing K'taka party chief

"Show me one opposition party who is thinking about the country and working accordingly. Most of the opposition leaders are thinking about their respective states only," he alleged.

"We felt that all the forthcoming elections, including the next year's Lok Sabha, should be contested with the BJP under Modi's leadership. This would benefit Maharashtra as well as the country," he said. "Overall and comprehensive development was taken into account. We have a vast experience of the administration, we can utilise it for the good," he added. His party colleague Chhagan Bhujbal, who also took oath as a cabinet minister, told reporters, "We realised that in order to solve the issues faced by people, we cannot only fight and agitate, but we need to take some positive steps. Therefore, we have taken the decision." One thing cannot be ignored that the leadership of the country is in the hands of PM Modi, he said.

"PM Modi has taken a lot of efforts to take decisions and solve pending issues. Several issues of OBCs can be solved by being in power," he said. Bhujbal is a prominent OBC leader in the state. "In one of the recent meetings, Sharad Pawar had told us that PM Narendra Modi will win the 2024 general elections. We did not see all the opposition parties coming together. We decided to join the government to solve the issues faced by the people," he said. Some people would say that we have decided to join the government because of the ongoing investigation against some of us, he said.

"All the cases against Ajit Pawar are nil now. A major case against me is now almost over," Bhujbal said.

Even Hasan Mushrif (who took oath on Sunday) faced some probes, but the court has not taken any coercive action against him. The court is giving new dates, because there was no strong evidence against him, he claimed.

Industries Minister Uday Samant, who belongs to the Shinde-led Shiv Sena, said as part of the MVA, Shiv Sena expected the then chief minister (Uddhav Thackeray) to ensure equal distribution of development funds to all MLAs, which was not happening.

But Ajit Pawar, Eknath Shinde, Devendra Fadnavis are all people's leaders, he said.

"So now we will have no problem in distribution of funds and also seat-sharing to contest elections," Samant said.

"The chemistry of these three leaders is perfect, but earlier there was 'chemical locha' |(imbalance)," he said.
Tara Patel

Tensions abated slightly in France during a fifth night of unrest as authorities sought to contain the fallout from the killing of a teenager thats reignited debate about racism and inequality.

The riots and looting, which have drawn comparisons with Americas reaction to the murder of George Floyd in 2020, have become a moment of reckoning for the country which has experienced repeated protests in recent years over such issues as pension reforms and the higher cost of living.

President Emmanuel Macron has called a meeting with Prime Minister Elisabeth Borne and other ministers later Sunday to discuss the situation.

Amid a heavy police presence nationwide, some 719 people were arrested overnight, down from more than 1,300 the night before, according to the government. Authorities deployed 45,000 police, special brigades and armed vehicles on streets that have been overrun with youths setting fires and attacking officers, public buildings and shops.

While Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin wrote on Twitter of a calmer night, clashes still occurred in cities like Marseille in a sign that the crisis isnt over.



Also Read Hockey World Cup Crossover Hlts: Korea upset Argentina, Germany beat France Indian aviation mkt 'booming'; to expand routes with IndiGo: Air France-KLM Macron calls on France, Germany to become pioneers of Europe refoundation India, France review cooperation in areas of nuclear energy, trade France's Macron calls for 'European sovereignty' during Netherlands visit Russia launches first drone strike on Ukraine's capital Kyiv in 12 days Baltimore mass shooting kills two, 28 injured, three critical: Police France faces 5th night of rioting over teen's killing by cops, 719 arrested Israel attacks Syria; Syrian air defence missile explodes over north Israel China goes on natural gas buying spree like there's still an energy crisis

Were not crying victory, Laurent Nunez, Paris police commissioner, said in an interview on BFM TV. Officers deployed along the Champs-Elysees headed off plans for riots that had appeared on social media, he said, adding that special attention was also being paid to shopping centers that are being targeted by delinquents.

Politicians are rallying to condemn one attack in particular, the ramming and burning of a car at the home of the mayor of LHay-les-Roses, a suburb of Paris. Stephane Hardouin, a public prosecutor, said authorities were investigating attempted murder after the mayors partner and two young children escaped the house through a back door. Borne and Darmanin visited the town Sunday. Well continue to bring order as quickly as possible, Borne said. No mayor will be left alone.

The unrest poses a political risk for Macron, who canceled a state visit to Germany that was supposed to start Sunday. Macron and Justice Minister Eric Dupond-Moretti have called on parents and social media companies to help bring an end to the violence.

The economic costs of the unrest are also mounting. On Saturday, Finance Minister Bruno Le Maire said some 10 shopping malls, more than 200 supermarkets, 250 tobacco shops and 250 bank outlets had been attacked or looted the previous night.

All types of businesses have been targeted, especially those with valuable merchandise, Jean-Luc Chauvin, head of the Chamber of Commerce of Aix Marseille Provence, told France Info. A first estimate by insurers put damages at more than 100 million ($109 million), a number that will undoubtedly rise, he said.

LVMH fashion label Celine canceled its menswear show scheduled for Sunday in Paris while authorities curtailed public transport in some cities and pulled cultural events like concerts. A private funeral was held Saturday at a mosque in Nanterre for the 17-year-old boy of North African descent called Nahel who was shot Tuesday at close range in a car.
Israel will buy 25 F-35 aircraft from the United States, the Israeli Defense Ministry announced on Sunday, in a deal that increases Israel's arsenal of the stealth fighter jets by 50 per cent.

The F-35 is the world's most advanced fighter jet, and Israel is the only country in the Middle East to fly them. The USD 3 billion purchase, which increases the Israeli fleet of F-35 jets from 50 to 75, is set to be finalized in the coming months, the ministry said.

It said the deal would be financed through American military aid to Israel and that the maker of the plane, Lockheed Martin, and the maker of its engine, Pratt & Whitney, had committed to involving Israeli companies in the production process.

The new agreement will ensure the continuation of cooperation between American companies and Israeli defense industries in the production of aircraft parts, the statement read.

The move to expand the Israeli arsenal comes at a time of heightened tensions between Israel and Iran. Israel, which considers Iran its greatest enemy, has previously used F-35 jets to shoot down Iranian drones, and has threatened to carry out a long-range strike on Iranian nuclear targets.

Israel accuses Iran of trying to develop a nuclear weapon a charge Iran denies and is believed to be behind a string of attacks on Iranian nuclear experts and facilities inside Iran over the years.

Also Read Stealthy, speedy, precise: What are fifth-generation fighter jets? No, Israel has NOT found two cases of a new variant of coronavirus 45 fighter jets including Sukhois, Rafales perform during 74th R-Day Parade Timeline: What and where fighter jets have shot down unidentified aircraft Canada finalises agreement to buy 88 US F-35 fighter jets for $15 bn Switzerland investigates ex-CEO Thomas Gottstein of Credit Suisse PM Rishi Sunak speaks of 'sting' of racism growing up in Britain Why a 'cage match' between Elon Musk, Mark Zuckerberg may be no joke France counts the cost as riots start to ease during fifth night of unrest Russia launches first drone strike on Ukraine's capital Kyiv in 12 days

Israel, which has sought to counter Iranian entrenchment in neighbouring Syria, conducted an airstrike on the Syrian city of Homs on Sunday, one of hundreds of strikes on government-controlled parts of Syria in recent years.
Tencents ubiquitous platform now allows people from overseas with certain international bank cards to access tens of millions of merchants

Berlin hopes to reduce dependence on its largest trading partner in certain key areas such as medical technology and rare earths, but its long-awaited plan has few specifics
News at 4Cs

Cape Cod Community College President John Cox Recognized at State House for Work in Suicide Prevention, Wellness

Cape Cod Community College President Dr. John Cox was recognized at the Massachusetts State House last week for his work in leading mental health awareness at the College and his support of suicide prevention efforts. Alongside several other recipients, the award came from the Massachusetts Coalition for Suicide Prevention (MCSP) at their Leadership in Suicide Prevention ceremony.

With a rise in need for mental health services to support academic success, President Cox has supported a significant growth in services and attention to wellness at the College. Working in support of Dr. Maura Weir, the Colleges Director of Student Wellness, and Christine McCarey, Dean of Enrollment Management and Student Wellness, the College has formed a cross-campus, multidisciplinary team to support students at every step of their academic journey.

I am humbled by this award from the MCSP and thank them for acknowledging the work that so many have contributed to within our College community, said Dr. Cox. Our mission at Cape Cod Community College is to provide pathways to brighter futures through the life changing power of higher education. To do that, we must recognize the needs of our students. They have made it clear that quality wellness services are a necessity for their success. Led by the incomparable Dr. Weir and our Wellness team, we are always working to support that need and will continue to education others on behavioral health and suicide prevention. Im very proud of the work we have accomplished, but we know theres always more to be done.

With a Student Wellness office located on campus that is staffed with licensed mental health professionals, the college became the first Massachusetts community college identified as a JED Campus in 2018. In the past several years 4Cs has trained more than 100 faculty and staff in suicide prevention, bystander training, mental health first aid, crisis intervention, and has launched a campus-wide peer education training program, an Active Minds national chapter, and a Collegiate Recovery Program. This past September, the college hosted the first ever Suicide Prevention Summit in the region and partnered with local coalitions to host events for National Survivors of Suicide Day, Suicide Prevention Day, and World Mental Health Day.

Across the country, colleges and universities are seeing a rise in the need for consistent, professional, and available mental health services for students, said Christine McCarey. We are fortunate to have a team that has worked so passionately to address these needs at 4Cs. It has allowed us to become a leader in Massachusetts in Student Wellness, suicide prevention, resiliency, and crisis intervention.

The Cape Cod Community College Student Wellness Office offers personalized clinical and case support for students, as well as connections to 24/7 support lines through TalkCampus, an international network for peer support that can be accessed via text or phone any time from any device. The College also maintains a Behavioral Intervention Team consisting of mental health professionals, faculty members, emergency personnel, and staff to manage student issues on campus using an evidence-based, solutions-focused approach to case management.
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In addition to greatly damaging the academic and cultural history, the recent terrible fire that destroyed the library at the University of Strasbourg in France also sparked recollections of a bygone period. The incident has made people think of Nalanda University, a historic university in India that met a similar demise centuries ago.

In this article, we examine the significant significance of these ancient institutions as well as the reasons why the burning of a library in France has drawn comparisons to the burning of Nalanda University.

Nalanda University's Ancient Legacies

Between the third and fifth centuries CE, under the patronage of Emperor Kumaragupta I, the Gupta period saw the founding of Nalanda University. The university, which covered an area of 14 hectares, included eight distinct complexes that housed lakes, parks, monasteries, meditation halls, classrooms, and temples. Nalanda University, which had a capacity for more than 10,000 students and 2,000 faculty, was essential in spreading knowledge among diverse fields of study.

Bakhtiyar Khilji's Terrible Invasion

Nalanda University was attacked by the Turkish Muslim conqueror Bakhtiyar Khilji in 1193 AD. Khilji destroyed the university's temples, monasteries, and educational institutions because he wanted to eradicate Buddhism and impose Islam. The fires of the invaders destroyed the library at Nalanda, which was renowned for its extensive collection of manuscripts. The damage was so severe that the library is said to have burnt for three months as smoke covered the nearby hills.

Symbolic Importance of Nalanda's Destruction

The destruction of Nalanda University, a symbol of worldwide intellectualism and a remarkable repository of knowledge, left an irreparable stain on history. As centuries of accumulated knowledge were turned to ashes, the destruction of its library was considered a blow not only to India but to humanity as a whole.

A Painful Reminder: French Library Fire

Although unrelated to the historical events at Nalanda, the recent library fire at the University of Strasbourg in France serves as a sad reminder of the irreparable loss endured by Nalanda. For academics, historians, and anyone who cherishes the preservation of cultural legacy and the quest of knowledge, it revives the communal memory of a horrific incident.

The Global Importance of Cultural Heritage

The comparison made between Nalanda University and the French library fire highlights the value of cultural heritage is held in high regard worldwide and the significance of safeguarding old educational institutions. The fact that these places hold the collective knowledge of humanity and serve as a starting point for future intellectual endeavours emphasises the common obligation of nations to preserve and appreciate them.

Inspiring Rebuilding and Resilience

The remembrance of Nalanda University offers a reminder of the resilience and tenacity that civilizations have displayed in the face of hardship. After Nalanda was destroyed, efforts were made to reconstruct and rekindle the pursuit of knowledge. Similar to this, the aftermath of the French library fire presents a chance for community resolve to rebuild what was destroyed and reaffirm commitment to cultural heritage preservation.
France has been plunged in a wave of protests and riots following the deadly police shooting of a 17-year-old driver near Paris. Long-simmering tensions between the police and marginalised communities have been rekindled by the occurrence, resulting in widespread unrest and violence.

Questions about how social media fueled the protests and how the government handled the crisis are raised as the nation deals with the fallout. In this article, we will look at the circumstances that sparked the violence, the impact of social media, and what the future holds for France.

Unrest Breaks Out: The Shooting That Sparked Protests

The unrest was brought on by the murder of Nahel, a 17-year-old African-American youth, during a routine traffic stop in Nanterre, a suburb of Paris. Two police officers were positioned on the driver's side of the vehicle, and a shocking video shot by a bystander shows one of the policemen shooting his gun at Nahel despite there being no immediate threat. Although the officer stated he was concerned Nahel might run someone over with the car, it is thought that by drawing his firearm, he violated the law. An official inquiry into the officer's alleged voluntary homicide is already underway.

The killing of Nahel notably affected individuals living in housing developments in France's underprivileged areas. These areas have long struggled with racial prejudice, unemployment, and poverty, which has left residents feeling frustrated and alienated. Pent-up resentment and rage were released into massive protests and riots as a result of the incident.

The Escalation: Riots, Arson, and Police Clashes

Scenes of discontent and violence started to appear all throughout the nation as word of Nahel's shooting spread. In the streets, protesters set fire to cars and public buildings, broke windows, and engaged in violent altercations with riot police officers. The demonstrations quickly became more violent, which resulted in several arrests and injuries on both sides.

Gerald Darmanin, the interior minister for France, claims that 917 individuals were detained in a single night and that over 300 police officers were hurt while trying to put an end to the riots. On the fourth night, there were more than 2,500 fires, 500 targeted buildings, 2,000 vehicles destroyed, and several establishments plundered. Although the authorities have not provided injury totals for the demonstrators, it is obvious that the unrest has caused serious casualties and property damage.

The Role of Social Media: A Two-Edged Sword

In the middle of the commotion, French President Emmanuel Macron blamed social media sites like TikTok and Snapchat for contributing to the violence. According to Macron, these platforms encouraged violent imitation and the dissemination of provocative material by playing a "considerable role." In addition, he criticised video games for perhaps contributing to the unrest.

A French official revealed the name and address of the policeman who shot at Nahel on social media as one illustration. The official emphasised the dangers that such activities might bring to the officer's life and those of his family. In order to delete "the most sensitive content" and track down individuals who foment disruption, the French government wants to collaborate with social media platforms.

Future Actions and Government Response

Macron called an urgent meeting of ministers in reaction to the disturbance in an effort to resolve the underlying problems and bring the nation together. The government is determined to collaborate with social media companies to remove inciting material and track down those who advocate for violence. Macron made it clear that the government will go after anyone who used social media to perpetrate violent crimes.

In exchange for cooperation, French authorities have also promised to give social media companies information on those who incite violence. They are adamant about taking all necessary action against social media sites that disregard the law. The government and social media platforms, such as Snapchat and Twitter, have started talking about speeding up the removal of content.

Social Media's Effect on Protests

There is a constant discussion about how social media influences protests and amplifies instability around the world. Social media platforms can be used for organising, mobilising, and sharing information, but they can also be used to quickly propagate false information, encourage violence, and plan destructive actions.

In the case of the protests in France, social media sites were crucial in disseminating news about the incidents, disseminating video of the shooting, and energising the crowd. However, as evidenced by the release of the involved police officer's personal information, they also assisted in the dissemination of incendiary content and might have endangered people's lives.

The Way Forward: Unity, Reform, and Resolving Grievances

France's future challenges include uniting a fractured nation, treating wounds, and enacting significant reform. In order to address the complaints of marginalised populations, execute police reforms, and promote communication and understanding, the government's response will be essential.

Additionally, social media networks must provide responsible content moderation, stop the spread of hate speech, and work with law enforcement to remove offensive information. As platforms adjust to shifting societal dynamics, finding a balance between freedom of expression and the need to prevent the inciting of violence will be a constant issue. In the end, the riots and demonstrations in France serve as a harsh reminder of the fundamental problems that need to be solved in order to create a society that is more egalitarian and inclusive. It is an appeal for the government, social media sites, and society at large to pay attention, comprehend, and work to bring about long-lasting change.
City Councilwoman Demetrus Coonrod said she is donating a month of her council salary to the First Things First Dad Program.

Her office said, "The First Things First Dad Program, renowned for its remarkable dedication to supporting and empowering fathers, will experience a powerful surge of momentum thanks to this incredible gesture. By directing her council salary to this worthy cause, Councilwoman Coonrod seeks to amplify the program's impact and create transformative opportunities for fathers and their children.

"Through her selfless leadership, Councilwoman Coonrod exemplifies the true spirit of public service, constantly striving to uplift and strengthen families in need. By contributing her salary, she aim to provide vital resources and support to fathers within our community, ensuring they have the tools and guidance to become positive role models for their children."

Councilwoman Coonrod expressed deep admiration for the First Things First Dad Program and its tireless efforts to empower fathers.

She said, "I am humbled by the incredible work of the First Things First Dad Program and their commitment to strengthening father-child relationships. By donating my council salary, I hope to make a tangible difference in the lives of fathers, empowering them to be the best they can be for their children."

Her office stated, "Councilwoman Coonrod's act of kindness resonates powerfully with the entire community, reminding us of the transformative impact that can be achieved through generosity and compassion. Her commitment to supporting fathers underscores the significance of positive male role models in the lives of children, laying the foundation for stronger families and a brighter future.

"This inspiring gesture by Councilwoman Coonrod serves as an invitation to the public to join in supporting the First Things First Dad Program. Individuals, businesses, and organizations are encouraged to contribute to this worthy cause, embracing the opportunity to uplift fathers and families, fostering a community of love, support, and growth."
Leadership Tennessee, a collective with a mission to foster non-partisan dialogue on issues of state importance, has named Hamilton County Deputy Mayor Cory Gearrin to its 20232024 Signature Program Class X.

The cohort includes representatives from 14 Tennessee counties with diverse professional experience in business, government, education and nonprofit sectors.

Over the course of 10 months, the cohort will visit all corners of the state, analyzing challenges that Tennessee faces and will work together to identify the best solutions and opportunities. The statewide study will result in concrete plans to continue dialogue and actions addressing the most serious issues uncovered.

"As Deputy Mayor of Hamilton County, I approach this opportunity to join the Leadership Tennessee Program with appreciation and the utmost commitment to serve our state, said Mr. Gearrin. Having been born and raised in Tennessee and now serving my community daily, I am acutely aware of the challenges we face as a state. Leadership Tennessee and those who have participated in its missional work, have long been a source of admiration for me. I am excited to collaborate with a distinguished group of peers who share a collective purpose of tackling our state's most pressing issues together.

The group was chosen by a selection committee co-chaired by Valoria Armstrong and John Tolsma, both graduates of Leadership Tennessee. Candidates are evaluated based on the following criteria: leadership experience, a history of addressing statewide issues in both a personal and professional capacity, and a strong understanding of what challenges Tennessee faces today.

Collaboration is critical as we continue to work together in progressing Tennessee forward, said Alfred Degrafinreid II, president and CEO, Leadership Tennessee. Tennessee looks starkly different today compared to when this program began 10 years ago, and every year, we face new and challenging issues. Im confident in the diverse makeup of this class and know that these are the right individuals to create meaningful change across the state.

Previous classes have been able to facilitate numerous community engagement sessions across the state. Since Leadership Tennessees founding, more than 500 members have graduated through both the Signature Program and Leadership Tennessee NEXT, which is dedicated to emerging leaders. The cohorts work will begin in August and run through June 2024.
A TikTok creator named Paulina (@pauligruszczyk) is recounting the time when her date tried to use her to impress a potential investor.

So she was getting ready to go on a second date with a guy she met on Instagram. They had gone on their first date a couple of weeks ago, and it went fairly well.

He was a doctor and was a bit nerdy. Overall, Paulina received a lot of good vibes from him. For their second date, they planned for Paulina to meet him at his place so they could drive to dinner together.

When she arrived at his apartment, she knocked on the door and waited outside for ten minutes before he answered. He greeted her, wearing nothing but a towel.

Paulina was already thirty minutes late, so she silently questioned how he was just now getting ready. She sat on the couch while he made himself look presentable.

As he was getting dressed, he told Paulina that there was something she needed to know about the dinner they were going to.

It turned out that he was launching a new app he had created, and a potential investor and his wife would be attending the dinner with them.

Paulina told him she wouldve been fine with rescheduling their date, but he said it couldnt have worked out more perfectly. Then, he went on to list what he considered to be Paulinas best qualities, stating that she didnt drink or smoke and even went to church.

She realized that she had been set up, and the fact that he didnt tell her about the situation beforehand was an indicator that he knew he was at fault.

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Alliance University, a 140-year-old Christian & Missionary Alliance (CMA) school in New York City, will close on August 31 after years of financial struggles.

Known for much of its history as Nyack College, Alliance is the latest casualty in the financial crisis in Christian higher education . At least 18 Christian colleges have closed since the pandemic. But Alliance is also unique among US evangelical schools as one of the most ethnically diverse, with a student population that this year was 34 percent Latino, 30 percent Black, 11 percent international, and 9 percent Asian.

The parent denomination of the school, the CMA, began in New York City in 1880, and Alliance was founded not long after as an educational institution for missionaries and those in ministry. Alliance graduates like pastor A. R. Bernard lead many New York churches.

The CMA provided significant financial support to the school when it was in trouble in recent years. It is considering continuing the programs of Alliance Theological Seminary, which is part of the university.

The schools board voted on Thursday night to shut down Alliance Universitys operations, and school leadership informed staff, faculty, and students on Friday and began layoffs. Alumni, even knowing the financial straits of the school, used the same word over and over in interviews: shock.

This is very sad, said Chris Smith, who graduated in 2010, worked on staff at the school in various capacities, and served on the schools alumni board. The texts, calls, FaceTimes, DMs [direct messages] Im getting is a lot.

They had something so special, said alumna Heather Beers-Dimitriadis. That school changed my life in ways I could have never imagined.

With an announcement like this coming during the summer, communication about the closure happened by email and Zoom. The school had to send a letter to current students, and then to 683 students who had been accepted for the fall.

Alliance provost David Turk said 106 students are planning to graduate by the end of August, and he thinks that number will grow with students completing courses over the summer. He is planning a Zoom call with all the students after the July 4 holiday. Alliance is looking into holding a final graduation ceremony in August that could also be a chance for the Alliance community to grieve and worship together.

The students deserve a ceremony, said Turk. We need some sort of closure as a community, all dressed up in gowns.

Morgan Morrison had a year left in her masters in mental health counseling at Alliance. She had heard that the school was dealing with financial problems, but the news on Friday caught her by surprise.

Theres a lot of uncertainty amongst my classmates, she said. Shes trying to figure out what credit hours will transfer elsewhere, and where she might go to finish her degree. Two months is a short time for students to find and enter a new program.

President Rajan Mathews, who came to the school in 2021, said in an email to CT that his heart aches for the faculty, staff, and students, as well as the city and our churches and institutions that are now denied our qualified and motivated students.

As a Christian, I ultimately look for reason and purpose through the faith that is centered on our Lord Jesus the Christ, he said. He does all things well. In that is my ultimate hope and stay through all this.

The decision to close came on the heels of the school receiving a notice on Monday that it was losing its accreditation. The Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE) cited the schools finances as the main reason for the action. The removal of accreditation meant Alliance could not accept incoming students and had to instruct returning students about transferring schools.

The last week has just been an up and down of total despair and then looking for different ways to rescue things, then facing up to the reality of what is and what will be, Turk said.

Turk was a student at the school in the early 1970s and has been on staff for 45 years and provost for 21 years. This week, as he navigated angry Facebook comments from alumni, he thought through all the people and institutions he could blame for the closure of the school. But he came to the conclusion of accepting that this is what is happening in higher education across the country.

Alliances auditors had warned that the school was in danger as a going concern in previous years. For years, the school operated with massive deficitsincluding a $10 million deficit in 2019. Enrollment had been declining for years, but the pandemic worsened the situation. Mathews, a telecom executive, took over as president in 2021, bringing a business mind to a Christian school deep in debt.

Mathews saw an improving outlook with enrollment and fundraising up this past year. But MSCHE surprised Alliance leadership with placing it on show cause status this spring, meaning that Alliance had to prove why its accreditation should not be revoked.

Alliance had a hearing before the accreditors on June 21 but did not convince them of the schools financial hopefulness.

All we were asking for was a bit more time to prove our financial case, said Mathews.

Several education experts CT interviewed said that accreditors now are quicker to pull accreditation for schools in financial trouble, to keep students from enrolling in failing institutions.

Some Alliance alumni said the problems were long-term and embedded.

Years of bad decisions, Smith said. He saw a lack of innovation from the board and leadership prior to Mathews. Alumni werent a priority for those in leadership.

Beers-Dimitriadis, who served on the alumni board also and is the daughter of an alum, said the school did little fundraising among alumni and pursued outside big-fish donors instead. She said the alumni board was dissolved entirely in 2019.

Whatever the long-term problems that led to this moment, the school has a 140-year legacy of ministry in New York and around the world.

In an address at Mathewss inauguration, Anne Snyder, an Alliance board member and the editor in chief of Comment Magazine, remembered attending the schools commencement in 2015.

A 79-year-old grandmother ascended the stage and collected her diploma for the first time, followed by a Chinese woman in a wheelchair, followed a single mother, followed by an ex-offender. Here was a Christianity I could believe. Here were the Beatitudes unspoiled and put into practice, she said. Instead of expressing fear that a great Christian heritage was losing ground, as I was hearing in other evangelical and Catholic circles back in 2015, there was compassion in their testimonies, the scent of hope anchored in humility and fervent faith.

Shirley Hoogstra, president of the Council for Christian Colleges and Universities, ticked through a list of Alliances major achievements as an institution: a degree program at Fishkill Correctional Facility (which Turk said Houghton University in Houghton, New York, would likely take over as a teach-out partner), a vibrant arts program with a gospel choir, and a path for older adults to earn their degrees. She noted that Alliance had trained hundreds of church leaders in New York and seeded hundreds of missionaries and educators around the globe.

The legacy of Alliance is being the affordable and accessible Christian college opportunity for the five boroughs of New York, as well as for students from around the country who wanted to participate in multiethnic and multicultural experience, Hoogstra told CT.

In its long history, Alliance enrolled students who were refugees from the Vietnam War, and in 2021 it enrolled and covered tuition for refugees from Afghanistan. The denomination has been closely involved with immigrant churches and refugee resettlement, and many of the professors at the school were immigrants themselves. When the Afghan refugees arrived in New York to start classes, professors who were immigrants from Poland and Hong Kong met them with coats and bedding.

I think that [Alliance] fulfilled the mission laid out by its founder, said Turk, of serving the community through various mercy ministries. Turk counted last year that Alliance students, through programs where they are interns or doing other work, have connections to more than a thousand social services in the New York metro area, from hospitals to public schools. We truly served the community of New York.

The CMA has other denominational schools, like Toccoa Falls College in Georgia and Simpson University in California.

The Kings College, also in lower Manhattan near Alliances campus, is the only other CCCU school in New York City and is also facing the threat of imminent closure because of a financial crisis.

Kings also lost its accreditation at the beginning of June, but it is appealing the decision and has said it is in talks with another Christian college about a potential partnership. The removal of accreditation means that it cannot accept incoming students, which worsens its outlook.

Turk said for the past month or two he has been in touch with The Kings Colleges board and interim president about a merger or collaboration of some kind, a conversation that is still ongoing because Alliance retains its state education charter despite shuttering its programs.

Kings has had this wonderful history of large donors which Alliance University has never had, he said. But Alliance University has a charter from the state of New York, which we dont lose. We also have program approvals for many graduate programs and professional programs that Kings does not have. It would make sense to bring both together.

Students, meanwhile, are moving on. Accreditors have detailed procedures for when a school closes, including requiring the school to help students transfer to other programs if they wish and make sure records are preserved.

Alliance has teach-out agreements with schools including Asbury Theological Seminary, Manhattan Community College, Eastern University, Fordham University, Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary, Houghton University, and Messiah College, among others. Students can transfer to these schools with all of their Alliance credits to finish their degrees.

I guess the next steps for us all are just to make the space to grieve, said Morrison, the masters student. God will provide for sure!
Religion has become enclave for highly educated, married, middle-class families: Ryan Burge

America's churches have become enclaves for highly educated, married, middle-class families with children, and that's troubling for democracy, according to political scientist and lay preacher with the American Baptist Church Ryan Burge.

Burge's findings are based on a recent analysis of data analyzing measures such as education, income and relationship status. The data is derived from studies such as the Nationscape survey, which includes responses from 477,000 respondents, and the Cooperative Election Study, "a 50,000+ person national stratified sample survey administered by YouGov."

Burge, an associate professor at Eastern Illinois University known for researching data on religion in the United States, concluded that "increasingly religion has become the enclave for those who have lived a 'proper' life."

"These results are hard to ignore and should sound some major alarms for any person of faith who is concerned about the large state of American society," he writes in his analysis. "College degree, middle class income, married with children. If you check all those boxes, the likelihood of you regularly attending church is about double the rate of folks who don't."

He notes that religious affiliation increases as education increases, citing that "the group with the highest level of religious affiliation are those with a master's degree."

Burge contends that the shrinking middle class, which makes up some 50% of the American population, is most likely to be attending church services weekly.

"The group that is the most likely to attend services are not the poor, nor the wealthy. Instead, it's people who smack in the middle of the income distribution," Burge writes. "This analysis points to the following conclusion: the people who are the most likely to attend services this weekend are those with college degrees making $60K-$100K. In other words, middle class professionals."

Burge believes the development of the church as a middle-class enclave is problematic for American democracy because it makes the church exclusionary when it should be a place where people of all backgrounds can come together to "build bridges."

"Religion, at its best, is a place where people from a variety of economic, social, racial, and political backgrounds can find common ground around a shared faith. It's a place to build bridges to folks who are different than you. Unfortunately, it looks like American religion is not at its best," he explains.

"It's become a hospital for the healthy. An echo chamber for folks who did everything 'right,' which means that it is seeming less and less inviting to those who did life another way," he adds. "Do I think that houses of worship have done this on purpose? Generally speaking, no. But they also haven't actively refuted this narrative."

A number of studies over the years have shown how shifting cultural norms and the economy have impacted how people treat things like marriage and cohabitation.

While marriage has been shown to positively impact society in health outcomes, longevity and economic security, for example, a recent report from the National Center for Health Statistics, showed how the marriage rate reached its lowest point in more than 100 years with growing economic insecurity.

For the people who get married and endure, University of Maryland sociology professor Philip Cohen, who authored The Coming Divorce Decline, suggested that marriage appears to be losing its original intent and is becoming more of an "achievement of status."

"Marriage is becoming more selective, and more stable, even as attitudes toward divorce are becoming more permissive, and cohabitation has grown less stable," Cohen wrote. "The U.S. is progressing toward a system in which marriage is rarer, and more stable, than it was in the past, representing an increasingly central component of the structure of social inequality."
This week in Christian history: JFK meets pope, Clinton cracks down on church arsons

Throughout the extensive history of the Church, there have been numerous events of lasting significance.

Each week brings anniversaries of impressive milestones, unforgettable tragedies, amazing triumphs, memorable births and notable deaths.

Some of the events drawn from over 2,000 years of history might be familiar, while others might be previously unknown to many people.

The following pages highlight anniversaries of memorable events that occurred this week in Christian history. They include the resignation of a 15th century pope, the signing of the Church Arson Prevention Act, and John F. Kennedy meeting Pope Paul VI.

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10 things Christians should know about young widows and widowers

I had the misfortune of joining a somewhat rare group of people this past holiday season. Just after Thanksgiving, I became a widower at the age of 38. I have written about my experience previously.

It is somewhat rare. Most widowed demographic studies do not even measure under 40 numbers, but rather begin measuring demographics of under 50. My pastor mentioned to me once that they have a meal for widows and widowers in the church. He said I would invite you, but you would be the youngest by 25-30 years. The Church doesnt seem to know what to do with a young widow(er).

As a follow up to this, I think it would be helpful to describe the experience and how the Church could treat those like me differently. In my journey, I have come to know others in my shoes (under 40 and widowed), whom I have polled and interviewed in writing this piece. While this article draws mostly upon personal experience, many of these sentiments were suggested or shared by others who have been widowed at a young age.

1. Losing a spouse is an extremely lonely feeling. For many, the emotion is driven far more by the loss of connection than anything else. Yes, losing your spouse, the person you love most, is extremely hard. But it also disrupts your entire social routines and rhythms. You no longer have someone to come home to. Your weekend plans only involve your kids, but no adult time. This is especially true for those of us who work from home. I, personally, do not see another adult on most days, other than my childrens caretaker. It is extremely isolating. Early on, I was invited to peoples houses or to social events consistently. I valued this tremendously, as I did not feel like a burden when other people initiated.

2. As an extension to the first point, a widow(er)s needs do not stop after the first month or two. The lack of social opportunity gets harder as other people have settled back into their normal routines. Keeping up with housework has gotten harder as less people ask do you need anything? Keep checking in. Keep inviting.

3. The hardest times are nights, weekends and holidays. Holidays can be the worst of these three, as they bring back emotions of what once was. But nights and weekends serve as a reminder of aloneness. At night, the house is quiet and empty. On weekends, you dont have a partner with whom to share your activities. These are days/times to check in on a widow(er). Perhaps include them in your celebrations for holidays.

4. It would be helpful for members of the Church who are of the same sex as the lost spouse to step up as a female influence or a male influence for the children. This is challenge for us. It is hard for me to do things like buy clothes for my daughters, for example. Or to do their hair. Or to provide the feminine touch that my daughters used to get from my late wife. There is a significant void in their lives that needs to be filled.

5. Please do not compare our experience to those who have divorced. Yes, it is similar in that we now find ourselves single again and have the single dad or single mom moniker. But the circumstances are much different. With divorce, something unhealthy was occurring relationally. Many divorced people I have talked to are dealing with emotional trauma that is hurt inflicted by another. Others feel liberated. But our emotional trauma, often, involves the loss of a healthy and functioning marriage. The separation is not caused by hurtful actions or behaviors by our former spouse. Most widow(er)s have a positive memory of the marriage experience, where many divorced people do not. This is not to minimize the pain of those who experience divorce. Rather, it is just a different kind of pain.

6. Be very sensitive with your advice and suggestions. Some common suggestions are: Use this opportunity to draw closer to God, Use this time to grow closer to your kids, Throw yourself into your work, etc. Yes, these are all positive goals and can be productive. But our struggle is missing intimacy and human connection that was stripped from our lives. I personally have grown far closer to God than I was through this experience, but God doesnt give hugs. My kids dont offer stimulating conversation like an adult. My work doesnt provide relational fulfillment. This advice feels very hollow, despite the good intentions. It is much better to just listen as we talk about the pain. A huge need is the ability to process.

7. Be patient with us. We are on an emotional rollercoaster. Do not expect us to be consistent. We may feel or think one way on a given day, then change our minds on another. We may feel good enough to provide emotional support to others on one day, while other days it may be too much.

8. And dont expect anything of us for a while, emotionally or with service type opportunities. In conversations with widowed friends, this is more common than one might expect. Friends and family have a way of seeking emotional support from us in their own grief. But we feel overwhelmed already. We have taken over both the husband/dad and wife/mom duties of the household and parenthood. We are grieving the loss at a more day-to-day level than anyone else. It is difficult to have the emotional energy for others when we are already at capacity. In addition, while running a household and parenting solo, it is also difficult to do ministry service. Or anything that requires our time. This will come back eventually, but dont expect it from us for a while.

9. Single unmarried people, generally, are underserved in the Church. Many Christians, myself included, married in their 20s and stay in their marriages. I personally was unaware, but single Christians are isolated as a result. There are not many singles ministries for the over 30 crowd. Studies are not geared toward unmarried adults. The Church needs to be more aware of this demographic, widowed or not.

10. Men are also underserved in the Church. This became apparent to me when I checked in on whether there were single dad ministries. I could not find one. When I inquired as to whether a single mom ministry could be converted to a single parent ministry, I was told that this would make the single moms uncomfortable. This very well may be, but this leaves a young single dad without a ministry or community. And as I stated above, I do not have the bandwidth to start a ministry myself in this phase of life. The Church needs to be more intentional about this.

Some of this may seem pointed. To be clear, this is not meant as a direct criticism of any specific church or person. Rather, because we are in an admittedly rare position, I do not think many have known what to do. Other widow(er)s I have talked to have said the same. The sore spots and suggested approaches listed above should serve as a guide for anyone who knows a young widow(er) with kids.
India's PM Modi wages war against Christians with impunity from US

Last week, President Joe Biden offered the glitziest of welcomes to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi both in the form of a prestigious state banquet and a private dinner with the President and First Lady. Given Modis atrocious record on human rights and religious freedom, the White Houses invitation predictably raised concerns from the broader humanitarian community.

It's easy to understand why Biden took such a bold step despite its PR risks. Indias surging economy, which overtook the U.K. to become the worlds fifth-largest economy in 2022, makes it a critical partner. And Prime Minister Modi, despite the deplorable human rights violations that have occurred under the watch of his ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), is the worlds most popular elected leader with a 77% approval rating.

Yet popularity and economy should not trump morality and humanity when it comes to U.S. foreign policy. In fact, America has historically been most strongly positioned when we balance economic and political interests with human rights concerns. The White House cannot and should not overlook Prime Minister Modi and the BJPs long record of overlooking violence and abuses. The safety and lives of countless Indians  including tens of thousands of vulnerable Indian Christians  are at stake.

I have the pleasure of leading Global Christian Relief, one of Americas top watchdog organizations focused on Christian persecution around the globe. Weve long been tracking Indias religious rights violations and what weve cataloged is bone-chilling. Modi is a supporter of Hindutva, an extreme political ideology that says someone must be Hindu to be truly Indian. His administration has jailed critics en masse, enforced anti-minority laws, and taken over the courts. Modis extremist allies like the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) have repeatedly called for the genocide of religious minorities.

If you want a specific portrait of what this looks like, consider the June 7 attack by Indian army soldiers who were patrolling the streets of Manipur when eleven people were shot and 14 were injured. This most recent bloodshed follows on the heels of extreme rioting in May that adversely affected Christians living in the area. Hundreds of churches were burned to the ground, dozens of Christians were killed and tens of thousands have been left homeless. In the wake of this tragedy, Prime Minister Modi and the BJP, which governs Manipur, remained completely silent.

Modi is benefiting from a combination of good luck, political brilliance and ruthlessness. He claims that the Indian economy has been strong under his watch, despite evidence to the contrary. But a weak congress has failed to challenge him on the point. Modi is also a populist  he was born poor and largely self-taught  traits that many Indians identify with and admire him for. His smiling face on billboards across the country gives comfort in a time of uncertainty and change. Modi has largely beaten his critics in the media into silence. Many of his supporters are willing to look the other way when it comes to his partys bashing of Muslims, Christians, and religious minorities.

Now Modis political brilliance led to a welcoming party thrown by President Biden. The White House rolled out the red carpet, inviting the Prime Minister to an official state visit and state dinner. Biden had previously only twice extended the highest-ranking prestigious invitation during his presidency, to French President Emmanuel Macron and South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol, both leaders of U.S. treaty allies.

President Biden had Modis full attention during his visit, giving Biden a unique opportunity to discuss the riots in Manipur and the mistreatment Christians regularly face in India. But the White House said the President would not lecture Modi on human rights, instead describing the visit as one of the defining partnerships of our age. Biden was expected to bring up U.S. concerns about democratic backsliding in India, but only behind closed doors.

However, during a press conference at the White House, Modi offered a rare response to a reporters question about his governments handling of religious freedom and human rights. We have always proved that democracy can deliver, Modi said. And when I say deliver, this is regardless of caste, creed, religion, gender. Theres absolutely no space for discrimination. Foreign policy experts, advocates for democracy, Indian dissidents and even the U.S. government disagree. The State Departments Office of International Religious Freedom has accused Modis government of arbitrary killings, restrictions on freedom of expression, and violent targeting of religious minorities.

Now the worlds most populous country, the potential for Indias economy and political power continues to grow. Despite resistance from dozens of US lawmakers who urged Biden to raise the human rights issue, the President is willing to overlook Indias record as he views the country as an effective counterweight to China while also looking to wean it off Russian arms.

White House national security adviser Jake Sullivan recently told reporters the question of where politics and the question of democratic institutions go in India is going to be determined within India by Indians. Its not going to be determined by the United States. Why not? As the most powerful democracy in the world, the U.S. absolutely holds countries to account for engaging in or tolerating particularly severe violations of religious freedom as Countries of Particular Concern. The designation allows for sanctions against offenders like Russia, Saudi Arabia and Iran, all of whom are already on the list.

If America begins to compromise our historic commitment to championing human rights around the world in our pursuit of economic interests, we will sacrifice our moral voice. Many believe this is far too high a price to pay, and Modis visit shows that President Biden is walking a fine line by not publicly condemning Indias rights violations.
Government promises tighter age checks on porn sites

Christian charity CARE has welcomed amendments to the Online Safety Bill to enhance age verification on porn websites.

The amendments will hold these websites "to a new higher standard on the age verification or age estimation tools they use".

Websites will also have to be "highly effective in establishing whether a user is a child or not", with executives held personally responsible for keeping children safe.

Ofcom is to issue guidance for websites on the new standards and will release periodic reports on compliance and effectiveness of age verification.

The amendments have been welcomed by Christian charity CARE, which has led a long-running campaign for tougher age verification processes on adult websites.

It is calling on the government to go one step further and ensure that there are no loopholes for social media sites.

Ross Hendry, CEO of CARE, said the measures would "make a real difference".

"Most younger children encounter porn by accident. Robust age verification will help prevent their exposure to content that is disturbing and damaging," he said.

"For older children, the impact of porn is evident in the alarming rise of sexual harassment in schools. Tackling this issue requires curbing underage access."

He added, "It is also good to see new reporting requirements on both the effectiveness of age verification and compliance by pornography sites.

"We trust that Ofcom will take its duty to protect vulnerable children as seriously as parents across the country do. Stronger online protections against harmful content are long overdue. We now hope for swift action."
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SOUTH EUCLID, Ohio -- A local man has been charged with improper discharge of a weapon and obstructing official business in connection with a Plainfield Road gunfire incident that took place the evening of June 19.

The incident led to residents from the area speaking at Mondays (June 26) City Council meeting, asking questions about what took place on what those residents described as a normally quiet street.

At 11:10 p.m. June 19, dispatch received a call in which it was stated that shots had been fired on Plainfield and that a gunman had retreated into a home on the street.

Officers, including those providing mutual aid from from Shaker Heights, Lyndhurst and Cleveland Heights, surrounded the house and ordered all people inside to come outside.

Six people, males and females, exited the house through the front door. Officers then entered to do a sweep of the home to see if there were any victims or suspects inside.

In a third-floor crawl space, hiding under a pile of clothes, officers found a man, Suraj Hudson, 20, who lives on Plainfield Road. Two guns were also found.

Officers questioned all those who had been in the house and learned that Hudson was allegedly responsible for firing a gun while in the street. It was found that no one was shot.

Interviews revealed that Hudson was in the street arguing with his girlfriend, who was standing by a car. Two female neighbors, hearing the commotion, came out to check on what was happening and were told that the matter did not concern them.

One of the neighbors told police that Hudson saw the flashlight she carried and asked what it was. He then is alleged to have pulled out two guns.

According to the police report, the girlfriend was begging to get her keys back from Hudson. One of the neighbors told police she was then slapped to the ground, and the other said that she was pistol whipped just before a shot was fired into the ground.

The neighbors then both ran back into their home. The girlfriend, apparently struck by debris from the shot striking the road, was heard stating, initially, that she thought she had been shot in the leg. The girlfriend left the scene before police arrived.

Police reports noted that officers had been called to the home on two other occasions.

In one, on May 29, a caller reported three to five people arguing outside the home, and a female telling someone not to point a gun at her. By the time police responded, all of the parties had left.

On March 24, Hudsons girlfriend, 21, of Brooklyn, reported a domestic violence incident, but she went to the hospital before police arrived and officers were not able to make further contact with her.

Hudson, after spending time in the Cuyahoga County Jail, was released on bond.

Read more from the Sun Messenger.
CLEVELAND, Ohio -- As a high school senior applying for colleges and scholarships in 2000, I walked pretty blindly through the process.

My mom, originally from El Salvador, and my Indigenous father had both completed high school, which, at the time, was their highest level of education. At a very young age, my parents instilled in my brother and I the importance of getting a degree. My mom wanted us to participate in the American dream, to see her sacrifice and hard work pay off. My dad wanted us to pursue jobs that would help uplift other people of color and right historical wrongs.

I wanted to ensure that all of my hard work paid off too. That my two-hour RTA commute from Clevelands southeast side to my high school on the west side was worth it. That I defied the overt and veiled racist things that were said to me over the years that I internalized as imposter syndrome. I wanted to make my ancestors proud.

But my parents were not equipped with the knowledge to share with me what to expect from the college application process. Not because they didnt want to, but because their parents did not possess that knowledge to share with them either.

My parents, grandparents and I are all cogs in colonial systems designed to disenfranchise us, allowing our hard work and excellence to get us only so far in building wealth and creating opportunities for our future generations. I take pride in working to dismantle that.

My maternal grandmother, who was my moms primary parent, did not have much of an education herself. My paternal grandmother, who was my dads primary parent when my grandfather was killed, had attended Native American boarding schools that were not aimed at preparing her for higher education, but for killing the culture, language, spirituality and things that made her Indigenous.

Our story demonstrates why affirmative action in higher education  struck down Thursday by the U.S. Supreme Court -- is paramount to eliminating racial inequities and dismantling systems of oppression. It demonstrates why the affirmative action policies that led to a Black man like Clarence Thomas  the poster child for hypocrisy  attending Yale Law School in the 70s and becoming a Supreme Court justice are still needed today for all people of color, who dont have the benefit of swallowing the lie that we live in a post-racial America.

If not for affirmative action policies in higher education, I may not have gotten to attend college. I may not have discovered my passion for storytelling and advocating for social justice. I may not have had the opportunities I have been fortunate to enjoy. I may not have gotten to help my family better our financial situation.

Rewinding to 2000, when we finally had the internet at our house, I wrote college essays and applied for scholarships on the family computer. Although I had a decent GPA, my ACT test score was in the low 20s. I knew this was going to be a hindrance and, heeding the well-intentioned though misguided advice of a guidance counselor, I did not apply to all of the schools I wanted to attend. I had a few older Salvadoran-born cousins on my moms side that had gone to college. On my dads side, Id be the first to attend.

By sheer serendipity, I happened to meet the daughter of a fellow Indigenous family at their house in Parma on one sunny afternoon as a high school senior. The Buffaloheads, who were of the Ponca Tribe of Oklahoma, were friends of the family. Their daughter, Tami, in town from Omaha, encouraged me to apply to a small Jesuit school in Nebraska called Creighton University, where she worked in the office of multicultural affairs.

I had never considered going that far for school. But I applied and was accepted. My elation was compounded by the fact that they offered generous financial aid to help fund my educational endeavors. Without that, I would have never been able to make college work. Because although I came from a household that valued education, the fact is we were poor, and I grew up in an area where many of my childhood friends didnt go on to college.

In 44127, my childhood zip code, more than 50% of households earned less than $24,999, according to 2000 Census data. Only 3% of adults over age 25 had a bachelors degree and only 1.8% had some sort of advanced degree. Roughly 50% of people in my area at the time were people of color.

I was lucky to receive scholarships for Native American students. Creighton University changed my life and fueled my passion for social justice that still drives my work and gives my life purpose today. Creighton boasted double the national average at the time of Native American student enrollment  2% of the student body was Native versus less than 1% at other schools. It is where I forged some of the most meaningful friendships of my life with other students of color, many of which I keep in contact with today. We supported each other and built a community that was rooted in celebrating the successes of all multicultural students.

My brother fared well thanks to affirmative action, too. He graduated with honors from St. Ignatius High School, went on to Dartmouth College and later to medical school. I called him before I wrote this column to gather his thoughts. He echoed my sentiments: without affirmative action, he would not be where he is today.

We are part of the first generation in our family to have these opportunities, working to decolonize the systems to which our ancestors were denied access. I hope we continue to pave the way for other generations of people of color to excel in their passions. We may not have had trust funds, private tutors or the ability to afford standardized test prep classes, but we deserve a place at the table, too. A chance to improve our lives, in spite of hundreds of years of systemic racism.

In the wise words of Justice Sonia Sotomayor, [i]gnoring racial inequality will not make it disappear [This] decision imposes a superficial rule of race-blindness on the nation.

A Clevelander from the Slavic Village neighborhood, Nancy Kelsey started her career in journalism before working in communications. Her biggest loves are her husband, family, dogs, volunteering, traveling, writing, learning about other cultures and sharing her own. You can reach her at nancy.kelseyPD@yahoo.com.
"Reafirmamos el compromiso del Peru con los ODS teniendo presente la riqueza cultural y natural que son la base de los destinos turisticos????", senalo la Viceministra @MadeleineBurnsV en el panel sobre Retos perspectivas y estrategias de competitividad" pic.twitter.com/T5EjT2z2cT
En el rio hablador, estamos en accion! ???? La ministra @HPerezDeCuellar, junto al alcalde de Ate supervisaron labores con maquinaria pesada en el rio Rimac para limpiar y descolmatar su cauce, a fin de remover piedras, lodo y asi evitar desbordes y poder conformar diques. pic.twitter.com/QjdNTtk68S
Israel has approved the purchase of a third squadron of F-35 stealth fighter jets in a deal worth $3 billion, the Ministry of Defense said on Sunday.

The additional 25 aircraft manufactured by Lockheed Martin will bring the number of F-35s in Israel's air force to 75, the ministry said, adding that the deal will be financed through the defense aid package Israel receives from the United States.

Israel was the first country outside the United States to acquire the F-35. In May 2018 its air force chief said that Israel was the first to use the plane in combat.

The F-35 is also known as the Joint Strike Fighter and in Israel by its Hebrew name "Adir" (Mighty).

Lockheed Martin and engine manufacturer Pratt & Whitney have agreed to involve Israeli defense companies in the production of aircraft components, the Israeli ministry added.
Tesla posted its second-quarter vehicle production and delivery report for 2023 on Sunday.

Here are the key numbers from the electric vehicle maker:

Total deliveries Q2 2023: 466,140

Total production Q2 2023: 479,700

The numbers beat analysts' expectations and indicate that deliveries rose 83% year over year for Tesla after Elon Musk's auto business added manufacturing capacity, and ramped up production at its vehicle assembly plant in Austin, Texas.

Tesla groups deliveries into two categories but does not report individual model or region-specific numbers.

The second quarter of 2023 marked the fifth period in a row when Tesla reported a higher level of vehicles produced compared with deliveries.

During the second quarter of last year, Tesla reported 254,695 deliveries, and in the first quarter of 2023, Tesla reported 422,875 deliveries. During the second quarter of 2022, Tesla produced 258,580 vehicles and last quarter it produced 440,808 vehicles.

Deliveries are a carefully watched number by Tesla shareholders and are the closest approximation of sales disclosed by the company.

Wall Street was expecting Tesla to report deliveries of 445,924 for the period ended June 30, 2023, according to analyst estimates compiled by FactSet-owned StreetAccount.

The independent researcher who publishes under the handle TroyTeslike was expecting deliveries of 448,000 and production of 471,355 vehicles.

CEO Musk's electric vehicle maker offered some discounts and other incentives to boost sales of its cars in the U.S. during the quarter, including on its Model 3 entry-level sedan, and more recently, its older Model X SUV and Model S flagship sedan, which represent a small percentage of overall sales for Tesla currently.

The Model 3 and Y are now eligible for a $7,500 tax credit in the U.S. under the Inflation Reduction Act.

About 96% of the deliveries Tesla reported in the second quarter of 2023 were of its Model Y crossover, and Model 3 entry-level sedan in this quarter.

Alexander E. Potter, senior research analyst at Piper Sandler, wrote in a note on June 26, that according to the firm's analysis, "Prices have been stable," for Tesla during the second quarter on balance. The company's steep discounts in and beyond China in the first quarter sparked cries of a "price war" in the electric vehicle market. Potter cautioned that "Price cuts in Q3, if any, could reignite concern re: margins," for investors.

Tesla currently operates vehicle assembly plants in Fremont, California, Austin, Texas, and overseas in Shanghai and Brandenburg, Germany (outside of Berlin). The company also makes the Semi, a heavy-duty electric truck, at its battery plant in Sparks, Nevada. Deliveries of the Semi began in December 2022 but Tesla still isn't producing the trucks in high volumes.

In March, Musk announced that Tesla plans to build a new factory near Monterrey, Mexico, a day's drive from its Austin factory. After meeting with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New York in June, Musk said Tesla was also looking to invest in India "as soon as humanly possible," too.

The company is expected to begin selling a partly revamped version of the Model 3 in North America this year. At an annual shareholder meeting in May, Musk also said Tesla will deliver its first Cybertruck pickups in 2023 and is developing a new kind of drive unit and other technology that should allow it to deliver a more affordable electric vehicle in the future.

Anticipation for newer and more affordable models could continue to put pressure on sales, along with rising competition, especially in China.

Musk, who is also executive chairman and CTO of Twitter and CEO of SpaceX, wrote in a tweet ahead of the second-quarter deliveries report: "Please advise people to be wary of margin loans. Tesla has always been a high variability stock, often with no obvious rhyme or reason. We are confident about long-term value creation, but cannot control the manic-depressive nature of the stock market."

Tesla shares closed at $261.77 on Friday ahead of the second-quarter deliveries report. The company said, in a statement, it will post financial results for the second quarter after the market close on July 19, 2023.

 CNBC's Ashley Capoot contributed reporting.






According to the Nepal Tourism Board, the Himalayan nation received a total of 4,76,481 foreign tourists by air in the first six months of 2023.

Nearly 1,68,000 Indian tourists visited Nepal by air during the first six months of 2023, registering a significant increase in their number compared to 97,313 visitors during the same period last year, official data showed on Sunday.

According to the Nepal Tourism Board, the Himalayan nation received a total of 4,76,481 foreign tourists by air in the first six months of 2023.

This marked a significant recovery of 83 percent compared to the pre-pandemic year of 2019.

In the year 2019 (pre-Covid period), Nepal received 5,36,058 tourists by air. The number of tourists visiting Nepal in the first six months of 2023 was 16.93 per cent less than those visiting Nepal in the same period of 2019.

The number of Indians visiting Nepal by air during the first six months of 2023 was 167,605, registering a significant increase as compared to 97,313 Indian visitors in the same period last year, the board said in a press release.

In May, Nepal received a total of 1,53,602 foreign visitors out of which 36,575 were Indians.

In June, Nepal received an overall lesser number of international tourists as compared to the same month the previous year. However, the number of Indian tourists was more in June this year as compared to the same month the previous year.

Nepals tourism industry was marred by the COVID-19 pandemic that broke out towards the end of 2019, with the number of visiting tourists decreasing.

During the first six months, the influx of tourists dropped to 220,815 in 2020, 58,058 in 2021, and recovered to 240,901 in 2022.

The number of Indian tourists visiting Nepal in June was encouraging as Nepal started recovering from the Covid pandemic, said Sharmila Kafle, Managing Director of Apoorva Tours and Travel  one of the major travel enterprises dealing with inbound tourists from India.

"In the past, Indians mainly used to visit Pashupatinath Temple in Kathmandu but now a variety of tourists from India with diverse interests are coming to Nepal," she said, adding that Indians also visit Janakpur, Lumbini, Muktinath and other places in Nepal.

Besides Kathmandu, they are also visiting Pokhara and Chitawan. The number of adventure tourists from India is also growing, she added.

They are going to climb Mt. Everest. Nepal has also become a hub for Indian filmmakers, she pointed out. Last year, the Indian film Unchai produced by Bollywood veteran Amitabh Bachchan was shot in Nepal, she said.

The weather in Nepal is relatively cooler than that in India, which is also one of the major factors contributing to the increase in Indian tourists, she added.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, July 2)  Ad agency DDB Philippines on Sunday apologized for using stock footage for "Love the Philippines" video, saying that no public funds were used to produce the mood video.

In a statement, DDB Philippines "profusely" apologized to the Department of Tourism (DOT), Secretary Christina Frasco, and the Filipinos for using foreign stock footage.

"While the use of stock footage in mood videos is standard practice in the industry, the use of foreign stock footage was an unfortunate oversight on our agency's part," DDB Philippines said, stressing it should have strictly followed proper screening and approval processes.

"The use of foreign stock footage in a campaign promoting the Philippines is highly inappropriate, and contradictory to the DOT's objectives," it added.

The ad agency also said that no public funds were used and that it was a company initiative to "help pitch the slogan."

"The AVP (audio-visual presentation) in question, uploaded by the agency on social media, was intended to be a mood video to excite internal stakeholders about the campaign," it said.

"It is important to note that the AVP was produced by DDB Philippines at its own expense, and no public funds were released, or would be released, to fund the video," it added. "This was a DDB initiative to help pitch the slogan."

Frasco earlier disclosed on CNN Philippines' The Source that the DOT spent 49 million on the "Love the Philippines" campaign and slogan.

Ina Zara-Loyola, DOT public affairs and advocacy director, also told reporters that the video was not part of the contract with DDB Philippines.

"The DOT did not pay, and will not pay for this material. The material can be attributed to the DDB," she said.

Netizens on Saturday pointed out the use of non-original shots in the campaign video, prompting the DOT to release a statement saying it is conducting an "exhaustive investigation" into the matter.

READ: DOT probes 'Love the Philippines' video over alleged use of 'non-original shots'

DDB Philippines said it is "fully cooperating" with the investigation.

The ad agency also said the AVP was taken down, and that it was an isolated incident. Succeeding materials have yet to be produced for the tourism campaign, it added.

"We sincerely hope this will not diminish the genuine love and appreciation the stakeholders and the public have been showing for the Love the Philippines campaign," it said.

Salceda: You dont set the mood with plagiarism

Albay Rep. Joey Salceda, who earlier called out the DOT for leaving out Mayon Volcano in the new tourism campaign, did not mince words on the use of foreign stock footage in the promotional video.

For something as critical as an entire country's image, you don't set the mood with plagiarism, he said.

Clearly, the exclusion of Mayon and other tourist attractions intrinsic to the Philippine brand was just a symptom of trabahong tamad [lazy work] that is now evident to everyone, he added.

Salceda also said the issue proves his latest point that the DOT should either apologize to Albay or fire its consultant.

I hope all these issues can be rectified before the budget hearings. Otherwise, I have a duty to ask questions, he added.

READ: Salceda wants to look into contract for Love the Philippines campaign
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, June 2)  The Makati Regional Court on Saturday night ordered the release of actress Awra Briguela from police custody after she posted bail of 6,000, Makati Police chief PCol. Edward Cutiyog confirmed.

Briguela was arrested after engaging in a fight in a bar in Barangay Poblacion on Thursday.

She was nabbed for physical injuries, alarm and scandal, direct assault, and disobedience to a person in authority.

According to the police report, one of the complainants said the actress violently tore his shirt. The situation then escalated when her friends joined in.

The Southern Police District also said the actress became verbally abusive towards the police and expressed disregard for their authority when they intervened in the brawl.

READ: Actress Awra Briguela arrested after brawl in Poblacion bar

Friends and netizens came to Awras defense saying she was only protecting her friend from a group of men who allegedly tried to sexually harass her.

Advocates of the LGBTQIA+ community also condemned the Makati police for allegedly manhandling the actress during her arrest.

READ: Makati police draw flak from LGBTQ advocates over 'manhandling' of Awra Briguela
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, July 2)  The Philippine government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) have renewed their commitment to the Bangsamoro peace process and have agreed to fast-track its implementation with only two years left of the transition period.

Cesar Yano, chair of the governments peace implementing panel, and Mohagher Iqbal, chair of the MILFs peace implementing panel, met in Davao City on Saturdaya first under the Marcos administrationto talk about four decision points to fast-track the implementation of the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB).

"The Parties agreed to intensify resource mobilization to support the implementation of the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro by engaging with international state and non-state donors who are willing to support the normalization process, subject to appropriate rules and regulations on the acceptance of grants, donation or any form of development assistance. The modalities for this shall be further discussed by the Parties," the statement read.

The panels also agreed to further review proposals for the Armed Forces of the Philippines Redeployment Parameters and Areas for the Joint Security Assessment, Transition Plan for the Joint Peace and Security Teams, and the Intergrated Framework on the implementation of camps transformation program in the initial 33 villages of six MILF camps, the statement read.

Another agreement is the creation of a socioeconomic study committee to discuss and recommend for the panels' approval the components, implementation framework, and funding strategies for the socioeconomic development packages for the decommissioned combatants and camps transformation.

Yano and Iqbal also said they discussed the law enforcement operations in Datu Paglas, Maguindanao del Sur on June 18, which killed seven alleged members of the MILF. The two leaders expressed their sympathies to the bereaved families.

They also thanked President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. for "swiftly directing" the Justice department to conduct investigations, but Iqbal reiterated the "indispensability of a separate inquiry by an independent body to bolster confidence in the findings."

RELATED: No imminent threat in Metro Manila after death of alleged BIFF members

"The Parties express their deepest appreciation to and continuing confidence in President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. for his full support to the Bangsamoro peace process and his commitment to fulfill the implementation of the peace agreements," the statement read.

"The Parties, along with the entire peace mechanisms, re-affirm their commitment to the continued implementation of the CAB and the achievement of just and lasting peace in the Bangsamoro and in the entire country," it added.

The CAB, which was signed in 2014, became the basis for the creation of the Bangsamoro Organic Law, which was passed in 2018. The law is the basis for the establishment of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).

READ: The Bangsamoro Organic Law: Everything you need to know

The creation of the BARMMa new autonomous political entity with more power, including its own parliamenthas raised hopes for the end of the decades-long armed conflict in Mindanao and for a chance at genuine self-governance.

According to the CAB, the Philippine government and the MILF will craft and sign an exit agreement "when all agreements have been fully implemented."

In 2021, former President Rodrigo Duterte signed into law the Republic Act No. 11593, which deferred the first regular elections of the BARMM from 2022 to May 2025 to synchronize with the Philippine midterm elections.

The law also stated that the Bangsamoro Transition Authority will continue to be the interim government in the region until 2025.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, July 2)  The Supreme Court has issued a writ of kalikasan against Altai Philippines Mining Corporation (APMC), the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), and its Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) over controversial nickel mining operations on Sibuyan island following a petition by local residents filed last February, an environmentalist said.

Rodne Galicha, Living Laudato Si executive director, posted the high courts notice on his Twitter account on Sunday.

According to the SC, it issued the writ of kalikasan versus APMC, DENR, and MGB in a resolution dated June 13.

A writ of kalikasan is a legal remedy which protects the right of Filipinos to a balanced and healthful ecology in accord with the rhythm and harmony of nature, pursuant to Article II, Section 16 of the Philippine Constitution. Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla earlier described the writ as a special civil action that could urge respondents to do something about nature or repair environmental damage.

In late January, APMC led mining exploration and operations on Sibuyan Island and planned to export 50,000 metric tons of nickel ore for testing overseas.

Environmentalists and residents of the island protested the mining activities. They said they were illegal as APMC had not secured the necessary permits to conduct mining operations and to export the nickel ore. Two people were hurt in a human barricade set up to try to stop the operations.

The mining company claimed its operations were lawful.

However, on February 6, the APMC voluntarily suspended all mining exploration and testing operations on Sibuyan Island. Two days later, the DENR also issued a cease-and-desist order against APMC, halting its activities in the area.

READ:

Altai voluntarily suspends Sibuyan exploration and testing operations

DENR orders mining company to halt activities on Sibuyan Island

The SC also resolved to require the respondents to comment within 10 days and said it would refer the case to the Court of Appeals for further reception of evidence.

However, the high court denied the petitioners request to issue a Temporary Environmental Protection Order (TEPO) against APMC, DENR, and MGB.

According to the SC, the TEPO is an order issued by the court directing or enjoining any person or government agency to perform or desist from performing an act in order to protect, preserve or rehabilitate the environment.

Though TEPO prayer has been denied, it cannot be denied that DENRs cease-and-desist order is still in forceThe issuance of the writ of kalikasan is a significant step to secure and protect one of the country's last ecological frontiers, Sibuyan Island, and its communities, Galicha said.

CNN Philippines has contacted APMC, DENR, and MGB for their comments on the writ.
The Prince and Princess of Wales Accompanied By The Duke And Duchess Of Sussex Greet Wellwishers Outside Windsor Castle - Credit: Chris Jackson/Getty

Sometimes you can just feel it when a celebrity is entering a flop era. I vividly remember watching Katy Perry using drag queens as props on Saturday Night Live in 2017, accompanied by a rapper who had recently used a homophobic slur, dressed in a hideous Beetlejuice-style striped jacket, and just knowing that her album rollout for Witness was going to be a complete disaster. Similarly, when Dakota Johnson awkwardly accused Ellen DeGeneres of lying during a toe-curlingly iconic interview on her eponymous talk show, it prompted a slow drip-feed of negative stories to appear in the press. Suddenly, after decades as the queen of daytime TV, the grisly end of DeGeneress reign felt inevitable.

Speaking of royalty, I have this exact feeling when I think about Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex. After fleeing to the U.S. to start a new life in the wake of a racist and misogynistic smear campaign in the British press  which they accuse the royal institution and their family members of actively colluding in  the pair signed a string of lucrative deals with the biggest streaming platforms. Then there was that tell-all memoir.

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As much sympathy as I have for the despicable way the couple has been treated since they wed in 2018  and I really do  I have the feeling that the appetite is waning for their content stream. On June 15, it was announced that Markles deal with Spotify was coming to an end after just one series of her podcast, Archetypes. (Sources are divided over whose decision this was, but there were reports that Spotify was unhappy about Markles lack of output for the $20 million deal). The news prompted United Talent Agency CEO Jeremy Zimmer to take the unusual step of publicly questioning her credentials. Turns out Meghan Markle was not a great audio talent, or necessarily any kind of talent, Zimmer told Semafor at the marketing festival Cannes Lions in the South of France. And, you know, just because youre famous doesnt make you great at something.

Meghan Markle and Prince Harry in the Netflix docuseries Harry & Meghan.

If we look back to 2021, the Sussexes pulled together a truly blockbuster media event when they were interviewed by Oprah Winfrey. The interview was packed full of viral moments that were tailor-made for how content is consumed in todays social media landscape, like Winfreys famous line: Were you silent, or were you silenced? More importantly, there were concerning claims about how Markle was treated by the institution in the wake of suicidal thoughts, plus alleged racist comments which were made by members of the firm about their infant son Archies skin. The interview was enough to give many (but not all) of their detractors pause. Crucially, it relaunched the couple to a U.S. audience and signposted a new era of sharing their story after years inside a notoriously guarded institution.

In the aftermath of the Oprah interview, the gloves were well and truly off. There was more mud-slinging in the press and it seemed like the feud had been ramped up a gear. Sensing an appetite for more  and now footing the bill for their own extortionate personal security and lifestyle costs  the couple signed deals with Spotify, Netflix, and Apple. Prince Harry reportedly netted in excess of $20 million for his memoir, Spare, with Forbes estimating the couples earnings from streaming deals to be in the region of $135 million. (FYI, Jeremy Zimmer, it looks like they are great at something: minting money).

Despite millions of dollars in the bank, the success of the Sussexes projects has been mixed. Their Netflix docuseries, Harry & Meghan, which essentially functioned as a much longer version of the Oprah interview with more backstory, was at the top of the platforms most-watched list for weeks. Prince Harrys book, Spare, broke records and became the fastest-selling non-fiction book of all time.

Part of the issue the Sussexes are currently facing is that they have made their brand about their beef with the royal family. Now, their feud has reached a stalemate and it feels like there isnt much more to say. Part of the reason why Prince Harrys book was such a success is because it went so far back into his childhood and provided so many scandalous details about now-Queen Camilla and losing his virginity. But in the aftermath of the tell-all, it feels like there surely cant be much more to share about their royal estrangement.

The Sussexes are in a difficult position: appetite is waning for content about their rift with the royal institution, because digesting it in so many different formats now feels like overkill. But there isnt much enthusiasm for their other projects, like the Archetypes podcast, which arent about that.

The Sussexes are also discovering that being a celebrity is different to being a working royal. The royals, by nature of the institution theyre a part of, benefit from sycophantic media coverage in the U.K. in particular, where the media and political establishment functions with the end goal of keeping them relevant and popular. But as celebrities who are now royals in name only, the couple has to generate their buzz and cultural relevance on their own.

For inspiration, the Sussexes might look to the Kardashian-Jenner family. Led by matriarch Kris Jenner, reality-TVs First Family have always understood that maintaining cultural relevance is about constantly reinventing yourself. Kim Kardashian is one of American cultures greatest chameleons. Once, she was a tacky run-of-the-mill reality star who rose to fame because of a sex tape. Now, shes a high-fashion muse, criminal justice reform campaigner, billionaire mogul, and A-list celebrity.

The Kardashians have always traded on strength in numbers. The title of their original reality show, Keeping Up with the Kardashians, was appropriate because even if nothing particularly dramatic or interesting was going on for Kim, one of her sisters would usually have a juicy storyline  like a wedding, an infidelity, or a health crisis. The overexposure of the Kardashians feels less jarring because theyre always giving us something new, but as a couple who are cut off from most of their families, the Sussexes narrative seems to have stagnated. Its becoming uninteresting and, even worse: its getting annoying.

I wonder, then, whether its time for Harry and Meghan to reinvent themselves more drastically. Perhaps a return to acting for Markle? Or a Goop-style lifestyle brand? They need to try something different, because I cant shake the feeling that they havent really earned the preachy role theyre trying to play. Harry and Meghan have been through the wringer, for sure, but it takes decades of painstakingly navigating turbulent times in the public eye to achieve that special Michelle Obama-style status, where people listen when you talk and respect you if they dont totally agree with you. Markles friend Oprah  who the Golden Globes tapped for a lifetime achievement award in the aftermath of the #MeToo scandal  is another such person. Her faultless speech at the 2018 ceremony had people seriously begging her to run for president. But it doesnt feel like the Sussexes have put in the work to get there  if reports are to be believed, Markle could barely even be bothered to make her own podcast.

After Spotify confirmed that they were parting ways with the Sussexes, right-wing media practically salivated at the news, declaring that their empire is imploding. I dont think thats entirely true: their partnership with Netflix isnt going anywhere (though they were reportedly given an ultimatum by the streamer) and there will surely be a memoir in the cards for Markle soon. You can call it a flop era, or simply teething issues, but the Sussexes are working out which platforms work for them  clearly, some dont, but that is the same for every celebrity. Im not surprised that Markles Spotify series failed to take off. The market for interview-based podcasts is so saturated and even Michelle Obama  whose memoir Becoming broke similar records when it was released  failed to make a long-term success out of her Spotify podcast.

It feels like the ship might have sailed on the Sussexes achieving that Oprah-style, Michelle Obama-status they seem to covet, because these women have become icons through using their voices sparingly over the years. A less is more approach has allowed them to cut through the noise when it really counts. If Harry and Meghan want to become icons through being overexposed (as they are currently) then they need to channel their inner Kardashian and give us something new. Because right now, apart from familial beef that is past its sell-by-date, it doesnt seem like they have much else to offer.

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MONTANA

Clean-up begins on train derailment in Yellowstone River

HELENA Work was underway to clean up rail cars carrying hazardous materials that fell into the Yellowstone River in southern Montana after a bridge collapsed over the weekend, officials said on June 26.

Montana Rail Link was developing a cleanup plan and working with its unions and BNSF Railway to reroute freight trains in the area to limit disruption of the supply chain, Beth Archer of the Montana Department of Environmental Quality said in a joint statement issued by Montana Rail Link and the federal Environmental Protection Agency.

Some rail cars that did not go off the tracks were removed from the area, and two cars carrying sodium hydrosulfide had their contents transferred to other cars and moved to safety, Archer said.

Sixteen cars derailed, and 10 of them ended up in the river downstream from Yellowstone National Park on June 24.

Six mangled cars that carried hot asphalt, three holding molten sulfur and one with scrap metal remained in the rushing water on Monday in an area surrounded by farmland near the town of Columbus, about 40 miles west of Billings.

The asphalt and sulfur solidified and sank in the cold water, officials said. Some asphalt globules were found downriver, but they are not water soluble and are not expected to impact water quality, the statement said.

Initial water testing on behalf of the EPA and DEQ did not show any petroleum hydrocarbons or sulfur impacts to the water quality or any threats to drinking water, DEQ spokesperson Kevin Stone said Sunday.

The cause of the collapse was under investigation. Part of the train had crossed the bridge before it failed, and some cars at the back remained on stable ground at the other end. No injuries were reported.

KANSAS

State pauses enforcement of new law on medication abortions

TOPEKA  Kansas officials agreed not to enforce a new restriction on medication abortions for at least five weeks before a state court judge decides whether to put it on hold until he decides a lawsuit challenging it and other existing rules.

Providers and their attorneys announced the agreement on June 20. Under the agreement, providers won't have to tell patients that they can stop a medication abortion using a regimen that providers and major medical groups consider unproven and potentially dangerous. The new rule was set to take effect July 1.

The agreement, filed in Johnson County District Court in the Kansas City area, does not prevent the state from enforcing other, existing restrictions the providers have challenged, including a requirement that patients wait 24 hours after seeing a doctor in person to terminate their pregnancies. District Judge K. Christopher Jayaram has set an Aug. 8 hearing to consider whether the newest restriction or others should be blocked while the lawsuit is pending.

The providers  a clinic in the Kansas City suburbs in Johnson County operated by Planned Parenthood Great Plains and another nearby clinic and its two doctors  hope to overturn all of the state's requirements for what providers must tell patients.

The new Kansas law was set to take effect less than a year after a decisive August 2022 statewide vote affirming abortion rights. The Republican-controlled Legislature enacted it over Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly's veto.

NEW MEXICO

Telephone hotline launched for women seeking abortions

SANTA FE  New Mexico Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham said in late June that her administration has set up a new telephone hotline for women seeking access to abortion clinics plus transportation and other assistance.

The hotline was already live but is still being built out, according to Lujan Grisham. The number is (833) 767-3776.

It will be staffed by registered nurses with the state Department of Health and paid for using existing resources.

New Mexico has seen a surge in abortions, driven largely by residents from Texas and other states that have enacted abortion bans.

According to state data, there were more than 11,000 reported abortions statewide last year compared with nearly 4,900 abortions reported in 2021.

So far this year, there have been almost 5,300 abortions performed in New Mexico, which currently has 19 abortion providers.

Six of those providers offer surgical abortions, with the rest providing medical abortions.

The hotline will also include advice on other maternal health issues and could end up convincing more out-of-state providers to relocate to New Mexico, Lujan Grisham said.

UTAH

School district returns the Bible to shelves after outcry

SALT LAKE CITY  Bibles will return to the shelves in a northern Utah school district that provoked an outcry after it banned them from middle and elementary schools in May.

Officials from the Davis School District, which educates 72,000 students north of Salt Lake City, said at a board meeting on June 20 that the district had determined the sacred text was age-appropriate for all district libraries. In allowing the Bible to be accessible to students regardless of their grade level, the board sided with 70 people who filed appeals after it was banned.

The committee's reversal is the latest development in the debate over a 2022 Utah law allowing parents to challenge "sensitive materials" available to children in public schools.

The effort to ban the Bible in Utah reignited debate about the standards used to judge the content in books. The initial challenge was filed by an unnamed person who criticized the conservative parents' activists clamoring to remove books from libraries and the standards they have lobbied the state to adopt.

The committee's decision to remove the Bible vexed advocates for expanding local control and parents' ability to challenge books. Republican Ken. Ivory, the lawmaker who sponsored the state's "sensitive materials" law at first opposed the Bible's removal and called the challenge "a mockery." He later said the text was best read at home but ultimately pushed for its return to schools and attacked the process that removed it from Davis County schools.

ARIZONA

Republican election official sues Kari Lake for defamation

PHOENIX  A top Republican election official in Arizona filed a defamation lawsuit on June 22 against Kari Lake, who falsely claims she lost the 2022 race for governor because of fraud.

Maricopa County Recorder Stephen Richer said he's faced "violent vitriol and other dire consequences" because of lies spread by Lake, including death threats and the loss of friendships.

Lake is a former Phoenix television news anchor who quickly built an enthusiastic political following as a loyal supporter of former President Donald Trump and his false claims that the 2020 election was stolen from him. She went on to narrowly lose her own race for Arizona governor last year along with a lawsuit challenging the results.

Despite her losses in court, she continues to claim that Richer and other Maricopa County officials interfered in the election to prevent her from winning.

A spokesperson for Lake did not immediately respond to a request for comment. She is openly considering a run for U.S. Senate and is a leading contender to be Trump's running mate in his 2024 presidential campaign.

In addition to unspecified monetary damages, Richer is seeking a court order declaring Lake's statements false and requiring her to delete them from social media.

Richer's lawyers wrote in their complaint that Lake has the right to criticize Richer but not to spread lies that bring him harm.

The suit says Richer has faced death threats, including one that was prosecuted by the U.S. Justice Department, and has spent thousands of dollars on home security.
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Just as you cant make an omelet without breaking some eggs, you cant lead an exciting life of adventure and derring-do without knowing you might end up being eaten. Cannibalism is one of those things nobody seeks out, but youre that bit more likely to be exposed to if, say, youre thousands of miles from home, strolling up to a group with a track record of eating people, while looking plump as all hell. Which, unfortunately, everyone below found out the hard way

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5 The Palatable Pirate Francois lOlonnais (1630-1669) packed a lot of bastardry into his short life. One of his preferred ways of torturing people, for instance, was to wrap rope around their heads until so much pressure built up that their eyes popped out. What a stinker. He and his crew tortured and murdered hundreds of people on their various raids of towns in Haiti, Venezuela and Honduras. On one occasion he cut out someones heart and gnawed on it to prove a point. A real piece of shit, this guy. Eventually, though, his reign of terror came to an end when he was captured by the indigenous Guna tribe of Panama, who tore him apart and ate him. Good! What an a-hole.

4 The Piquant Politician Johan de Witt (1625-1672) was a Dutch politician who was essentially the leader of the Dutch Republic during the Anglo-Dutch War, and helped broker the peace treaty between the Republic and England. He also set up the Triple Alliance with England and Sweden, uniting against France. However, in 1672  known in Dutch as the Rampjaar, or disaster year  it all went wrong for him. The English and French formed a secret alliance and attacked the Dutch Republic. (This period in Dutch history is best described as incredibly fucking confusing.) This led to an uprising, and de Witt and his brother were killed by a militia  first shot, then dangled naked upside-down, their bodies cut open and various parts pulled off and eaten by members of the crowd. Pretty grim stuff.

3 The Exquisite Explorer Giovanni da Verrazzano (1485-1528) was an Italian explorer, the first European to explore the Atlantic coast of North America. In trying to find a trade route through to the Pacific (the Northwest Passage, which wasnt properly discovered until the 20th century) he was the first non-indigenous person to set foot in what is now New York, as well as to make detailed maps of previously unexplored areas, including Cape Cod. On his third voyage to America, he explored further south than before, sailing from Florida to the Bahamas and further down to the lesser Antilles. Anchoring near Guadeloupe, he rowed ashore and encountered members of the indigenous Kalinago population. The Kalinago had a fearsome reputation for cannibalism, thought to have been exaggerated to some extent by the conquistadors who encountered them, but eating enemies as part of a war ritual was still very much a thing of theirs. In fact, the word cannibal comes from the Kalinago word karibna, meaning person. How did this work out for da Verrazzano? Deliciously.

2 The Succulent Senator Victor Biaka Boda (1913-1950) was a shaman turned politician in Cote dIvoire. The late 1940s were an incredibly chaotic time for the country politically  there were riots, a general strike, hunger strikes in prison and an air of high tension overall. Boda was a senator for the Rassemblement Democratique Africain, the anti-colonialism, pro-Africa party, who found themselves being suppressed by the French government and army. There was widespread political dissatisfaction in all directions, and things were at breaking point. In January 1950, Bodas car broke down near the small town of Bouafle. While his chauffeur worked on fixing it, Boda went for a stroll. He was never seen alive again, but his bones were recovered a year later, charred from cooking. As Time magazine put it, as far as politicians in France believed, The Senator had been eaten by his constituents. Advertisement Advertisement
FAIR HAVEN  Shelly Crawford has been attending the Fourth of July festivities in Fair Haven for as long as she can remember, and she is thrilled her grandchildren are taking part in the tradition.

The annual Independence Day weekend events in the village were in full swing Saturday, including a children's parade down Main Street. Occupying the middle of the procession was Shelly, daughter Ashlie Pritchard, Ashlie's son Brexton, Brexton's sister Raegan, 1, Shelly's son Ryan Crawford, Ryan and Ashlie's nephew Luke Crawford, 3, who was driving a toy vehicle carrying Raegan, and Luke's sister Leah, 7, riding a pink bike. Brexton, 4, operated a toy John Deere tractor decked out with four American flags, a red-and-blue pinwheel and more.

Shelly said she has been participating in the Fourth of July events for around 50 years, and noted she has "always hoped" she would be able to carry on that tradition with her children and grandchildren.

"I just see a lot of families now don't spend a lot of time together, and I like the memories, I remember being a child doing this stuff and I hope that when they're older, they remember the same things," she added.

With a small vehicle leading the way, the parade included youngsters and adults alike, as bubbles hovered in the air, the sounds of multiple noisemakers cut through air and a series of small American flags were waved around. The fourth of July celebrations began Thursday, with festivities including a mile-long parade Thursday, an electric boat parade Friday, fireworks Saturday night, a bevy of carnival rides Thursday through Saturday and an art and craft show that began Friday and continues through Sunday.

The craft show, at the village park, featured vendors such as Megan Julian's venture Hook, Line & Stringer, which included macrame shelves, live plants and plant hangers. Bob Riggio served as DJ, busting out classic tunes.

About a block away was the Bayside Cruisers Classic Car Show, another staple of the village's Independence Day bash. Classic, sleek machines of myriad of shapes, sizes, makes, models and designs were lined up. Married couple Gary and Laurie Berthold said they enjoyed being around all of the wheel-wielding hardware around them. Gary said one of his cars at the event so far was a light blue 1969 Dodge Charger RT, owned by Gary King, while Laurie was noted one of her favorites was the green 1957 Ford Thunderbird, owned by Dave Lindsley, right next to the Charger.

The Bertholds said they have come out to Fair Haven's Fourth of July events several times, with their favorites parts being the fireworks and the car show. They were impressed by the selection at the show and its accessibility.

"It's easygoing, it's good to see a lot of young people here," Gary said.

Close People march during the children's parade as a part of the Fourth of July weekend celebrations in Fair Haven Saturday. Brexton Pritchard, 4, operates a children's parade during a children's parade as a part of the Fourth of July weekend celebrations in Fair Haven Saturday. Vicky Currier, dog Zoey, Ted Currier, and dog Misty spend time together during the Fourth of July weekend celebrations in Fair Haven Saturday. People look at vehicles during a car show as a part of the Fourth of July weekend celebrations in Fair Haven Saturday. Engaged couple Alex Chappell and Bill Haddad hold down the fort for their business, Cosmic Road Trippers, with Bill's son, Liam Haddad, as a part of the Fourth of July weekend celebrations in Fair Haven Saturday. People spend time together and check out carnival rides during the Fourth of July weekend celebrations in Fair Haven Saturday. Al Dombroski's Cadillac hearse was featured at a car show as a part of the Fourth of July weekend celebrations in Fair Haven Saturday. People look around during an arts and crafts show as a part of the Fourth of July weekend celebrations in Fair Haven Saturday. Erica Cornell, daughter Bella, six weeks, son Maddox, 4, Bruce Cornell, center, dog Frankie and son, Chase, 11, far right, look at a vehicle during a car show as a part of the Fourth of July weekend celebrations in Fair Haven Saturday. Brexton Pritchard, left, operates a toy John Deere tractor with his mother Ashlie Pritchard, right, nearby during the children's parade as a part of the Fourth of July weekend celebrations in Fair Haven Saturday. Gallery: Children's parade, car show, crafts at Fair Haven's Fourth of July celebration People spend time together during the Fourth of July weekend celebration in Fair Haven Saturday. People march during the children's parade as a part of the Fourth of July weekend celebrations in Fair Haven Saturday. Brexton Pritchard, 4, operates a children's parade during a children's parade as a part of the Fourth of July weekend celebrations in Fair Haven Saturday. Vicky Currier, dog Zoey, Ted Currier, and dog Misty spend time together during the Fourth of July weekend celebrations in Fair Haven Saturday. People look at vehicles during a car show as a part of the Fourth of July weekend celebrations in Fair Haven Saturday. Engaged couple Alex Chappell and Bill Haddad hold down the fort for their business, Cosmic Road Trippers, with Bill's son, Liam Haddad, as a part of the Fourth of July weekend celebrations in Fair Haven Saturday. People spend time together and check out carnival rides during the Fourth of July weekend celebrations in Fair Haven Saturday. Al Dombroski's Cadillac hearse was featured at a car show as a part of the Fourth of July weekend celebrations in Fair Haven Saturday. People look around during an arts and crafts show as a part of the Fourth of July weekend celebrations in Fair Haven Saturday. Erica Cornell, daughter Bella, six weeks, son Maddox, 4, Bruce Cornell, center, dog Frankie and son, Chase, 11, far right, look at a vehicle during a car show as a part of the Fourth of July weekend celebrations in Fair Haven Saturday. Brexton Pritchard, left, operates a toy John Deere tractor with his mother Ashlie Pritchard, right, nearby during the children's parade as a part of the Fourth of July weekend celebrations in Fair Haven Saturday.
Solicitation for a Cooperating Country National Personal Service Contractor(CCNPSC to serve as USAID Project Management Specialist in the Djibouti office.

Dear Prospective Candidates:

The United States Government, represented by the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), is seeking offers from qualified persons to provide personal services under contract as described in this solicitation.

Offers must be in accordance with Attachment 1 of this solicitation. Incomplete or unsigned offers will not be considered. Candidates should retain copies of all offer materials for their records.

USAID will evaluate all offerors based on the stated evaluation criteria. USAID encourages all individuals, including those from disadvantaged and under-represented groups, to respond to the solicitation.

This solicitation in no way obligates USAID to award a PSC contract, nor does it commit USAID to pay any cost incurred in the preparation and submission of the offers.

Any questions must be directed in writing to the Point of Contact specified in the attachment.

Application must be submitted ONLY via djiboutiusaidjobs@usaid.gov and the email subject must say- solicitation 72060323R10005, USAID Project Management Specialist. Be sure to include your name and the solicitation number at the top of each page.

Submit application

Attachment 1
Solicitation for a Cooperating Country National Personal Service Contractor (CCNPSC to serve as Project Management Specialist (M&E) in the office of Djibouti

Dear Prospective Candidates:

The United States Government, represented by the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), is seeking offers from qualified persons to provide personal services under contract as described in this solicitation.

Offers must be in accordance with Attachment 1 of this solicitation. Incomplete or unsigned offers will not be considered. Candidates should retain copies of all offer materials for their records.

This solicitation in no way obligates USAID to award a PSC contract, nor does it commit USAID to pay any cost incurred in the preparation and submission of the offers.

Any questions must be directed in writing to the Point of Contact specified in the attachment.

Application must be submitted ONLY via djiboutiusaidjobs@usaid.gov and the email subject must say- solicitation 72060323RJ0006, Project Management Specialist. Be sure to include your name and the solicitation number at the top of each page.

Submit application

Attachment 1
There is a site in Cornwall that could one day help to transform Britain's car industry. But at the moment, that dream is a long way off.

Last week, French minerals giant Imerys announced plans to build Britain's first lithium mine at a granite site in St Austell.

Chief executive Alessandro Dazza showed himself to be a master of British understatement when he remarked that the UK lags 'a bit behind' America and Europe in battery production.

I would go further. We are miles behind  and it's becoming a serious problem.

Britain has pledged to ban the sale of new petrol and diesel cars and switch to electric vehicles as soon as 2030.

BRIAN CLEGG: Generations of motorists have been accustomed to refuelling in less than five minutes. With today's EVs, it's more like 45 minutes on rapid-charge  and up to eight hours on a home charger

Lithium is one of the crucial components in electric-car batteries, along with copper, nickel, manganese, cobalt and graphite.

We need huge quantities of it to meet the 2030 deadline. Currently, most battery production is controlled by China, although the world's largest known lithium deposits are in Australia and Chile.

If Imerys, in partnership with the start-up British Lithium, can perfect the process of extracting the metal from mica found in Cornish granite, the UK could produce 20,000 tons of lithium a year by the end of the decade  enough for half a million car batteries, as well as the promise of 300 new jobs at the plant.

Yes, it's a boost for the Government's plans. But it's also a stark reminder of how far Britain has to go, and time is fast running out.

I'd love to own an electric vehicle (EV), and not only because their phenomenal acceleration and performance appeal to the boy-racer in me.

There is an urgent need to address climate change, and as a science writer I want to do all I can to reduce my carbon footprint  the carbon dioxide I pump into the atmosphere by daily activities such as driving.

My motor is nine years old with 120,000 miles on the clock, and I'm viewing its next MOT test with trepidation. The vehicle needs replacing. Nothing would please me more than to treat myself to an EV  but it's not going to happen yet.

First, there's the question of price. On average, an electric car costs 10,000 more than its petrol equivalent.

At the budget end of the scale, it's even more than that. For example, I could buy a small MG3 for under 14,000, but the cheapest EV they produce, the MG ZS, is double that.

I regularly make trips of 300 miles or more, which means these electric cars aren't suitable as their batteries are designed for short journeys and city driving.

A new EV capable of longer distances would set me back about 40,000.

That's not feasible, both for me and for the great majority of the motoring public. It's all very well for the Government to insist that after 2030 all new cars will be EVs, with hybrids phased out by 2035. But how are people going to afford it?

There are currently 30 million petrol and diesel vehicles on British roads. If the cost of replacing each one leaps up by an average 10,000, that's a nationwide increase in spending of 300 billion.

You don't have to be an economist to realise it's impossible.

The second big problem is the lack of charging stations. As of April 1 this year, drivers could plug in their vehicles to recharge at just over 40,000 points around the country.

That is an increase of nearly 10,000 on the previous year  but only a little over 7,600 of the total number are rapid chargers. To cope with the predicted surge in new EVs, the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders estimates that we will need 2.3 million charging points  many multiples of the number we have now.

Without enough chargers, drivers will spend hours in queues. The threat to productivity is incalculable.

The Department of Transport claimed last year that more than 1.3 billion was allocated to supporting the 'continued rollout of charge points at homes, businesses and on residential streets'.

All well and good  but there appears to be no coordinated plan. The onus is on individual councils and private businesses.

Some districts are installing chargers in lamp posts, which is an innovative solution. But once all new cars are electric, there will be far more EVs than lamp posts.

Owners with off-street parking will be at an advantage, of course, and many people are already able to charge their cars overnight using equipment connected to their home electricity supply. But about a third of people nationally, and more in the inner cities, don't have off-street parking, or any designated parking space.

This would be less of a barrier to the great electric switch-over if it were not for the third massive problem  the time it takes to recharge a battery. There will need to be colossal investment into research on more advanced batteries and super-capacitors to enable rapid charging.

Generations of motorists have been accustomed to refuelling in less than five minutes. With today's EVs, it's more like 45 minutes on rapid-charge  and up to eight hours on a home charger.

And while many petrol vehicles can comfortably go 500 miles before refuelling, even the best EV batteries can't come close to that. Worse still, battery performance is affected by cold weather.

Car batteries do not degrade as quickly as the ones in our smartphones, which often lose efficiency within a couple of years.

But they don't last for ever: current life expectancy is between 100,000 and 200,000 miles. They can be replaced, but that's a major expense and it's bound to affect the resale value of EVs.

How robust the second-hand market for electric cars will be, we don't yet know. Whereas a well-maintained petrol car will still be saleable after ten or even 15 years, EVs haven't been around long enough for any meaningful comparisons to be made.

That is another factor holding potential buyers back: is it too risky to invest that extra 10,000 in an EV, when it might lose its value as fast as it loses its charge? Little wonder there's so much scepticism around electric cars.

As the Mail reports today, only a quarter of the British public believe the ban on petrol cars by 2030 is a good idea. Almost half of those polled are concerned about the economic consequences of the ban.

Still others raised my fourth and final worry  that the national grid simply doesn't have the capacity yet to charge millions of vehicles every day.

We will need to massively increase the output of our power stations, at a time when they are so hard-pressed that the Government recently had to draw up winter contingency plans for nationwide power cuts.

BRIAN CLEGG: Is it too risky to invest that extra 10,000 in an EV, when it might lose its value as fast as it loses its charge?

The EV revolution has to happen. But it cannot be done by plucking a date out of the air. EVs are the future of motoring.

Currently, the UK is not ready for that future, and we're making no serious effort to prepare.

The cut-off date of 2030 appears to have been set almost at random. It's wishful thinking.

The Government has to stop pretending, and recognise that it will take a mammoth, concerted effort to overcome the many obstacles  or we will all suffer the cost in a few short years.
If you go

WHAT: Dmitri's Pizzeria

WHEN: Open 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. Mondays through Thursdays, 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays, 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. Sundays

WHERE: 1124 Route 5, Elbridge

INFO: Visit dmitrispizzeriany.com, call (315) 689-0172 or find the restaurant on Facebook
A woman who is 26 years younger than her partner has revealed the cruel comments they get about their relationship and how some mistake her husband as her father.

Allison, now 45, and Ben Hornsby, now 71, met in 1998 when the then-USPS worker delivered post to the pawn shop where she was working.

The pair, from Florida, now have five children, including triplets and twins.

Despite the family and love that they share, they continue to get judgment from outsiders.

The 26-year age gap of a married Florida couple has gotten a lot of backlash. Allison, now 45 and Ben Hornsby, now 71, met in 1998 when he made a USPS delivery to her

The pair have five kids together, including triplets and twins

Their families were supportive of them, but their friends weren't

Allison gave birth to triplets Benjamin, Noah and Ethan in 2003 at the age of 26, with Ben becoming a father at 52.

Three years later, she had twins Mia and Jude who are now 16 years old.

'Ben retired in 2010 which has allowed him to be present and available to help raise our family,' Allison said.

'During the time he worked as a mailman, he would take his lunch at our house and change diapers, or help me with the kids.'

Ben added: 'Our biggest challenge has been raising our five children.

'Having triplets and twins is a lot of work.

'Raising five children together has been somewhat overwhelming, but we do it together.'

Allison said the kids' teachers assumed Ben was their grandfather.

Ben said: 'Our biggest challenge has been raising our five children. Raising five children together has been somewhat overwhelming, but we do it together'

'People in public have wrongly assumed I am Ben's daughter,' Allison, a content creator, told NeedToKnow.co.uk.

Although many people have objected to their relationship, the couple says their respective families are very accepting and supportive, approving of their love from the start.

'Ben's family was very accepting of me  they were glad to see him happy,' Allison said.

'My sister was only 13 when she met Ben, but she always approved of our relationship and supported us.'

Despite the support from family, they claim some friends and colleagues didn't share this happy opinion.

'Some of our friends had different reactions, they were surprised by the age gap,' Allison said.

'We knew other people may not accept our relationship, but we felt such a natural connection  we didn't want to be apart.'

Some reportedly made fun of Ben for bagging a younger woman and telling him the relationship wouldn't last.

'If you truly love each other, don't let the outside noise stop you from exploring your relationship,' Allison argued.

'We have received some abusive comments on our Instagram post[s].'

Allison frequently receives messages from men offering to be her 'sugar daddy' or 'side piece'  which she, of course, declines

Allison frequently receives messages from men offering to be her 'sugar daddy' or 'side piece'  which she, of course, declines.

'We get inappropriate messages, mostly from men, with older men offering to be my sugar daddy,' she said.

'Younger men offer me to be a side piece.

'Obviously this is offensive  we have a very healthy marriage.' Allison said, adding: 'We were both consenting adults, so we didn't see a problem with our age gap.

'We share small parts of our life on our Instagram account to show the beauty of a strong marriage.

'I feel like people assume age-gap relationships are shallow and that we couldn't be truly happy.'

Although a 26-year age gap may seem like a huge range, there is also a couple who share a 53-year age gap relationship and show it off proudly on TikTok.
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When it comes to bringing the outside in, this jawdropping glass mansion certainly hits the mark.

Designed by New York based architect Steven Harris, the Bedford Quarry House is perched on a 40ft cliff above an abandoned quarry-turned-lake with floor-to-ceiling windows letting the views do the talking.

In a video for Architectural Digest, viewed more than 875,000 times, the designer gives viewers a comprehensive tour of the 6,900sq ft property.

He explains that 'the idea is that perhaps there are no walls perhaps you're outside all the time' and all of the rooms serve up different views of the water and surrounding forest.

Designed by New York based architect Steven Harris, the Bedford Quarry House is perched on a 40ft cliff above an abandoned quarry-turned-lake with floor-to-ceiling windows letting the views do the talking

In a video for Architectural Digest, viewed more than 875,000 times, the designer gives viewers a comprehensive tour of the 6,900sq ft property

He explains that 'the idea is that perhaps there are no walls perhaps you're outside all the time' and all of the rooms serve up different views of the water and surrounding forest

While the home is within an hour of New York, Harris says it 'feels like you could be in Montana' because of the lush countryside

Apparently the quarry was rich in rose quartz and other gems but it closed after workers hit water

While the home is within an hour of New York, Harris says it 'feels like you could be in Montana' because of the lush countryside.

Apparently the quarry was rich in rose quartz and other gems but it closed after workers hit water.

When the current owners came across the site, there was a house there but Harris indicated that it was in need of a bit of maintenance.

After he was enlisted to create a new property, he said: 'Many architects prefer working on nice flat buildable sites I'm much more interested in difficult sites.

'I looked at it as this extraordinary geological opportunity and the fact it had so much water in it and the vegetation and the trees were so beautiful.

'I wanted to make sure that the materials, the palette, the character of the house was responsive to the site.

'It's not often that you're building on top of a 40ft tall stone wall.'

During his video tour, Harris showcases some of the main spaces.

He says one of the most used spaces is an open plan kitchen, dining and living area.

So that the space can be used for entertaining, part of the kitchen is hidden from view.

Other highlights include the media room - which features a miniature model of the house - the master bedroom with two walk-in closets, the children's bedrooms decked out with window seats and the sweeping terrace with views of the waterfall.

After he was enlisted to create a new property, he said: 'I looked at it as this extraordinary geological opportunity and the fact it had so much water in it and the vegetation and the trees were so beautiful'

Harris says that the natural water feature helps to eliminate 'every piece of stray sound you can hear'

The Bedford Quarry - which was completed in 2021 - scored a 'merit' in the residential category of the 2022 BSA Design Awards

Concluding his property tour, Harris mused: 'If someone comes over to the house I would prefer that they not be wowed. I would prefer that they not know who the architect is. I would hope that there would be a kind of ease, serenity, comfort'

Other features of the home include a garage with a retractable door inspired by an aircraft hanger and a swimming pool

Harris says that the natural water feature helps to eliminate 'every piece of stray sound you can hear.'

In terms of the home's color scheme, Harris says he opted to keep the interiors 'relatively muted,' with a mix of earthy tones running throughout.

Other features of the home include a garage with a retractable door inspired by an aircraft hanger and a swimming pool.

The Bedford Quarry - which was completed in 2021 - scored a 'merit' in the residential category of the 2022 BSA Design Awards.

The judges said of the structure: '[It] helps to restore, capitalizes on, and assimilates into the surrounding natural environment.

'A branching floor plan built into the sites bedrock provides spectacular vistas of an abandoned quarry-turned-lake and the surrounding forest.

'This provides the clients with a sense of serenity and comfort.'

The judges also applauded the home's green credentials as it has 'energy-efficient insulation,' a 'rain-and-wastewater management,' and a 'bio-retention-based septic system.'

Concluding his property tour, Harris mused: 'If someone comes over to the house I would prefer that they not be wowed. I would prefer that they not know who the architect is. I would hope that there would be a kind of ease, serenity, comfort

'If there were two adjectives for a project that are my greatest ambition, it's for a project to appear effortless and inevitable.'

Thousands of viewers have applauded Harris' creation, deeming it 'impeccable,' 'flawless,' and a 'masterpiece.'
The worst kind of summer disappointment is being told the McDonald's ice cream machine is out-of-order when you're craving a McFlurry.

And the McD's worker's sympathetic shrug offers little comfort as the beads of sweat dry on your forehead under the cooling breath of the air conditioner.

You are anything but 'Lovin' it' right now.

The all-too familiar encounter is a running theme on Twitter, according to a recent study that revealed out-of-order ice cream machines are the most common complaint among users of the social media platform - surpassing moans and groans about 'poor employee attitude'.

Some fast food fans even believe that McDonald's staff lie about the machines being down because they don't have the time to clean them.

Being told the McDonald's Ice Cream Machine is out of order is a global frustration - but employees have revealed the machines are rarely broken and just take forever to clean

And that is not far from the truth, according to former McDonald's employees who have revealed the real reason they can't give you your beloved frozen dessert.

Former manager Sarah Vaught, from Illinois, US, told the Wall Street Journal the main reason is that the McDonald's ice cream machines take forever to clean.

The McFlurry machine requires a four-hour automated heat clean every night to get rid of any bacteria inside the machines.

To get the machines ready for cleaning, McDonald's staff will have to remove and wash seven parts with a sanitising mix.

To complete the tiresome chore, staff will often begin breaking the machine down before the venue has closed - and will tell hungry customers that the machine is broken instead.

Previous Mcdonald's employees took to Twitter to confirm Sarah's claim.

@MichaelZyzzi said: 'As an ex McDonald's employee, the ice cream machine was always working it just took too long to clean it so we used to tell everyone it was broken hahaha.'

In response to the tweet, one user asked: 'I don't understand why you couldn't say it's being cleaned or maintenanced.'

A former employee, Courtney Bunting, said: 'Everything about the machine is just miserable.

'If someone came in 30 minutes before closing and ordered a McFlurry, would you want to risk something else splattering all over the area you just wiped?'

She said: 'We've all been victimised by the ice cream machine.'

To complicate the matter, the machines are prone to breakdowns and one in four branches reportedly told fast food consultant Richard Adams that their kit was out of order.

One McDonald's employee shared on Reddit that in the year and a half they worked at the chain, the ice cream machine has only truly been down one time, but they can't sell many McFlurry's because they are always cleaning it.

In 2019, McDonald's told the Mirror that machines are cleaned every 24 hours and apologised for any inconvenience.

It comes as the fast-food chain introduces six new items to its menu, including a Lotus Biscoff McFlurry- but whether hungry customers can get their hands on it is a different story.
Do you have a question for Jane? Email dearjane@mailonline.com or ask it below

She also offers words of wisdom to a college dropout who hasn't told her parents that she's no longer in school

In the latest installment of her weekly agony aunt column, best-selling author Jane Green gives advice to a woman who fears her friend will discover her secret

Dear Jane,

A year or so ago, I found myself in what I thought was the worst situation I could ever be in when I had a weeks-long affair with my best friends then-boyfriend.

I wont go into the finer details of how it happened, save to say we both got caught up in our infatuation with one another and things very quickly spiraled out of control  before we came to our senses, ended it, and agreed to never say another word about it.

Thankfully, weve been able to move past it and just get on with being friends, and my best friend never discovered what had happened between us.

Then a few weeks ago, he proposed to her and honestly, I was overjoyed, first and foremost because I want her to be happy, and also selfishly because it made me think that perhaps I hadnt ruined their relationship entirely.

Dear Jane, I had an affair with my best friend's fiance. Now she's asked me to be her maid of honor and I don't know how to tell her I can't

But now shes asked me to be her maid of honor and I just dont know how I can say yes. But I also dont know how I could possibly say no without raising her suspicions.

I would feel absolutely awful standing there next to her as they get married, knowing deep down what Ive done.

I would die if she ever found out that Id betrayed her trust like that, but I know she will be heartbroken if I turn down her request.

From, For Better or Worse

Dear For Better or Worse,

I have been thinking about your dilemma a lot, and it is indeed a tough one - and one that requires some nuance.

International best-selling author offers sage advice on DailyMail.com readers' most burning issues in her weekly Dear Jane agony aunt column

You did something that few could approve of, and yet the two of you very quickly realized the gravity of your mistake, and ended things, and it seems from your letter that there are no residual messy feelings on either side.

We all know affairs are awful, but however much we might jump straight to judgement, the truth is we are all human, and fallible. We all make mistakes, and whats important isnt perhaps the mistakes that we make, but the way in which we clean them up.

It seems to be that you have appropriately cleaned this up as much as you can without either of you causing hurt to anyone else.

I think it's entirely natural that you feel guilty, and there is no easy solution here, nor one right choice.

It seems to me that the right solution is the one that harms the least amount of people possible. If declining the role of maid of honor will cause her more harm, which is what you believe to be true, you will need to say yes.

And lets be honest, this day is not about you and your feelings of shame, but about your friend.

You already know you made a huge mistake, one that you deeply regret. Part of rectifying it, and perhaps the least harmful choice to all concerned, is to put your own feelings of guilt and shame aside, and focus on giving your best friend a wonderful day.

Dear Jane,

Ive dropped out of college and have no idea how to tell my parents. I was a pretty good student in high school and managed to get a place at a really good out-of-state college, which I know made them so proud.

But once I got to college, I hated it. Hated the classes I was taking, hated the environment, the stupid sorority stuff, the whole culture at the school. Slowly, I just stopped going to classes. I got a job at a local publishing house and focused all of my efforts on that  which ultimately led to me being kicked out of school.

Its been a few weeks now and I still have no clue how to tell my mom and dad. Ive had to move my stuff out of my dorm, Im currently staying with my cousin and sleeping on her couch  and Im still working in my job, which I love.

But every time I speak to my parents on the phone I have to lie to them about what Im studying and all the things Im doing at school. Theyre going to be so disappointed and upset with me when (if?) they find out but its not like I can keep this lie going for the next three years can I?

From, Learning a Harsh Life Lesson

Dear Learning a Harsh Life Lesson,

I think you need to take a breath and slow everything down. Its really tough when you get to school and realize you made the wrong choice, but hating everything about that school doesnt mean you necessarily need to drop out, but rather you start looking at different options.

Dear Jane's Sunday Service If only we could go through life making no mistakes, doing no harm, being the perfect mothers, fathers, wives, husbands, friends. We are all works in progress, all messing up every day, and its so important to recognize our own frailties, and focus not on the mistakes, but on the repair. Whether we have betrayed someone we love, or lied to people because the truth feels so much harder, whats important is owning our behavior, and repairing it, in a way that harms as few people as possible. Advertisement

One of my own children found that the school he went to was not the right fit, and decided to transfer to a different school at the end of his Freshman year.

Im wondering whether you have looked at all the options, considered different schools - and if not, whether you might consider that now, if only to have a full spectrum available to you when you talk to your parents.

Because you are going to talk to your parents, and you do need to tell them that you have dropped out. Sooner, rather than later. Not least because they may well be paying your college fees, and because duplicity and lying are far greater transgressions than dropping out.

College is not for everyone, and it may not be for you, but until you do your research, you dont know that; all you know is that the school you chose was not the right school.

You may very well love your new publishing start, and it may indeed be the right path for you, but when you tell your parents that you have dropped out, you need to be prepared to argue your case, and your argument is going to be a lot stronger if you have looked at all the avenues open to you and made an informed decision.

Dropping out and taking a job was not an informed choice. It was instant relief, which isnt necessarily a long-term solution.

Start looking at other schools, and tell your parents as soon as possible, apologizing for lying, and explaining why you are now making a thoughtful and deliberate choice.
Polygamist cult leader Warren Jeffs' 65th wife has detailed the horrific mental and sexual abuse that she endured inside his extremist Mormon sect - as well as the dramatic moment that she climbed through a window and escaped after years of torment.

Briell Decker, 37, was raised as part of the Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (FLDS) - a religious organization created by a group of Mormons who got ostracized from the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints because they refused to give up polygamy.

Warren, now 67, became the self-appointed leader of FLDS in 2002, and when he was arrested four years later, he had more than 70 wives, 24 of whom were underage children.

Now, Briell, who was forced to wed the FLDS president when she was only 18 years old, has spoken out about the immense trauma that she was put through as one of his spouses.

Polygamist cult leader Warren Jeffs' 65th wife has detailed the horrific mental and sexual abuse that she endured inside his extremist Mormon sect

Briell Decker (seen when she was a member of the religious group), 37, was raised as part of the Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (FLDS)

Warren (seen with some of his wives), 67, became the self-appointed leader of FLDS in 2002, and when he was arrested in 2006, he had more than 70 wives, 24 of whom were underage

Now, Briell, who was forced to wed the FLDS president when she was only 18 years old, has spoken out about the immense trauma that she was put through as one of his spouses

'FLDS believes in polygamy. It's set up like a pyramid, where the leaders are at the top, the men are next, then the women,' she explained during a recent chat with Unfiltered Stories.

At eight years old, Briell said one of her older brothers began 'molesting' her. But when it was brought to light, she said she was 'blamed.' She's seen as a child

'In order to be [higher up], the men had to have more wives. At least three wives were required to make it into the highest degree of glory in the FDLS kingdom.

'The leaders would tell [the men] when to marry. It wasn't like they could go out and choose somebody, that was not an option.

'There was no dating at all, they had to wait on God, wait on the leaders to decide that they were worthy.

'That was the same for my marriage - when I was growing up, I couldn't date. If I dated, I'd be kicked out of the church. I'd lose my family, my support system, everything.'

At eight years old, Briell said one of her older brothers began 'molesting' her. But when it was brought to light, she said she was 'blamed.'

When she turned 18, it became time for her to find out who the leaders had chosen for her to marry.

'I didn't grab a wedding dress or anything, I just followed my father out. I went with my father, he was crying by the time we had gotten in the car,' she recalled.

At 18, she said Warren (seen in 2006) told her that God had chosen him to be her husband. Moments after their ceremony, she recalled him 'asking her to sit on his lap' and molesting her

While Warren had 64 other wives at that point, she said he would often 'single her out' and was especially 'mean to her.' He's seen with some of his wives

At one point, Briell said Warren announced that 'anyone who wanted to leave the compound' come to him. He then sent her to a house in Las Vegas - but she was far from free there

She said she was taken to see Warren, who told her that God had chosen him to be her husband.

'He never really asked if I wanted to marry him ... I didn't dare [try to disagree], I knew the punishment would be really bad,' she explained.

She said she faced 'harassment' from the other women who were staying there, and it only got worse when Warren (seen with one of his wives) was arrested

After the ceremony, she said Warren 'sent her family out of the room and asked her to sit on his lap.' But when she 'hesitated,' he 'immediately' became furious.

'He was really mad so I started walking over there. I sat on his lap and he molested me,' she continued.

While Warren had 64 other wives at that point, she said he would often 'single her out' and was especially 'mean to her.'

'I realized later that it all started with that hesitation [to sit on his lap],' she said.

Briell recalled one time when she and a bunch of his other partners were called into his bedroom.

She claimed that after telling them a religious story, Warren forced them all to take off their clothes to prove their loyalty.

'He asked, "Do you believe me?" which he would say every time after church. And if you didn't believe he would make you stand up in front of everyone, so it was like a public humiliation,' she explained.

'They figured it was my fault he got caught,' she revealed. 'He taught that if there was one person who wasn't loyal to him it would effect everyone.' Warren is pictured in 2006

According to Briell (seen at one of the FDLS bases), members were taught to believe that they were 'accomplices' to his crimes and that they 'didn't have a chance' of survival without him

'So we all just said yes. After that, he said, "If you believe me I want you to prove it to me, I want you to take off your clothes." That was really traumatic.

'I was thinking, "I'm in this compound that has a guard tower and gate around it, I don't have an exit route." I had to take off my clothes.

'The room was full of other women, his other brides, like 30 of them or so. There were underage brides in the room.'

At one point, Briell said Warren announced that 'anyone who wanted to leave the compound should come and talk to him.'

She was one of the few to approach him, and he sent her to a house in Las Vegas - but she was far from free there.

She said she faced 'harassment' from the other women who were staying there since she had spoken out against him, and it only got worse when he was arrested in 2006.

'They figured it was my fault he got caught,' she revealed. 'He taught that if there was one person who wasn't loyal to him it would effect everyone. So I was that one person. They psychologically abused me, gaslighted me.'

After his arrest, she said she was sent back to one of the FLDS compounds in Utah, where she was put in solitary confinement. But thankfully, she was able to escape through a window

Briell has now been free from FLDS for 11 years, and she's thriving. In 2016, she was granted the rights to Warren's former home, which she turned into a shelter for ex-FLDS members

She has also found love, and got married to a man named Stevan in 2017, and the two reside in Hildale, Utah

According to Briell, members were taught to believe that they were 'accomplices' to his crimes and that they 'didn't have a chance' of survival without him.

After his arrest, she said she was sent back to one of the FLDS compounds in Utah, where she was put in solitary confinement for trying to escape.

But thankfully, she managed to get away after she used a scissor to break a window. After crawling through, she fled for her life.

In 2011, Warren (seen in 2011) was sent away for life after he was convicted of two felony counts of child sexual assault for having sex with two girls aged 12 and 14. Briell testified at the trial. He is currently serving a life sentence plus 20 years for the charges

Briell has now been free from FLDS for 11 years, and she's thriving. In November 2016, she was granted the rights to Warren's former home, which she has now turned into a shelter for ex-FLDS members with the help of the Phoenix Dream Center.

Briell is very outspoken about what she went through in the hopes of helping others. She has starred in a Discovery+'s documentary about FLDS, called Stream Prisoner of the Prophet, and is in the midst of writing her own book.

She has also found love, and got married to a man named Stevan in 2017, and the two reside in Hildale, Utah.

'I love helping people, I'm very passionate about the cause,' she concluded.

In 2011, Warren was sent away for life after he was convicted of two felony counts of child sexual assault for having sex with two girls aged 12 and 14. Briell testified at the trial.

He is currently serving a life sentence plus 20 years for the charges, however, it's been reported that he has continued to preach to FLDS' remaining members from his prison cell.

As of 2018, the Guardian reported that there were still around 10,000 active members of the church.
A man who transitioned to become a woman when he was just 19 has laid bare his pain and heartbreak following the decision that 'destroyed' his life.

Daniel Black, who is now 23, says he 'misses his genitals every day' after he took the drastic step to have transgender surgery before he had even reached 20 years old.

The salon-owner is one of a growing number of people who have decided to detransition after life-changing surgery or hormone drugs.

Daniel decided to become a woman after bullies at school made him doubt his masculinity and sexual orientation.

He claims that at just 17 he was given hormonal treatment following a 30 minute consultation - in which he also started planning to surgically remove his penis.

Daniel Black, who is now 23, (pictured) decided to become a woman after bullying at school made him doubt his masculinity and sexual orientation

He claims that at just 17 he was given hormonal treatment following a 30 minute consultation - in which he also started planning surgically removing his penis

But just a year after his surgery the salon-owner began to regret his decision

But just a year after his surgery the hair stylist began to regret his decision and in January this year went through more operations to remove his breast implants and have his chest muscles reconstructed.

He now has to have testosterone artificially injected because his surgery made it impossible for him to create his own.

Now, Daniel, who is from the Czech Republic, is fighting to get his former identity back - because he is still considered a woman in the eyes of the country.

In December he became engaged, and he and his fiancee are hoping to help others who also feel they have made a mistake.

Speaking to MailOnline, he said: 'The surgery destroyed my life.

'I cannot orgasm, have children or lead a normal sex life and I miss my genitals every day.

'Me and my fiancee want to build a safe space for people who fell for the transgender trend.

'We want to prevent people from going through transition and help those who have already transitioned and now deal with regret.'

Daniel credits his fiance Tereza with helping him to find himself again.

The pair started dating in a lesbian relationship when he was still a woman - and they say their strong bond has allowed them to get through his detransition.

He had the surgery at 19, alongside breast implants and lip fillers. He changed his name - Daniel was now Daniela

Pictured: Left, Daniel aged 16, before his transition and right, Daniel aged 22, as a woman

Daniel - who suffered intense homophobic bulling while he was at school - said that cruel classmates mocked his gentle behaviour, making him doubt his own sexuality. Pictured: Aged 16

While Daniel cannot have an orgasm and says his sensitivity is only a third of what it used to be they say their sex life has not suffered - although he is hoping to get a transplanted penis in an experimental surgery that will help him feel complete again.

Although Tereza says she originally found his detransition 'extremely hard', she threw herself behind it when she saw the freedom it was bringing him.

He continued: 'At the beginning of our relationship I didn't know what my role was supposed to be. She is a biological woman and I was playing the role of a fake one.

'It was weird for me during those first months. I wouldn't have detransitioned if I was in a relationship with a man.

'Thanks to her I was able to go back to being who I really am.

'But it's hard - for the first time in forever I am not acting or hiding behind a mask, I am honest about who I am and it's utterly terrifying. Terrifying and liberating.

'I'm happier now than ever before. Transition was the biggest mistake of my life and I hope I can prevent at least a few people from making that mistake too.'

Daniel - who suffered intense homophobic bulling while he was at school - said that cruel classmates mocked his gentle behaviour, making him doubt his own sexuality.

He says his mother - a Jehovah's Witness - made him feel like his body was disgusting.

He says his mother - a Jehovah's Witness - made him feel like his body was disgusting. Pictured: Aged 23

Daniel now runs a salon with his fiancee Tereza

Daniel credits his fiance Tereza with helping him to find himself again

Growing up as a teenager in fear of the religion, he blamed his penis for his hormones and sexual urges.

Sure he would never be able to get a girlfriend, he started sleeping with boys when he was 16 and came out as transgender a year later.

He continued: 'Growing up, I was a very soft boy. I lacked confidence and thought my classmates were right about me being gay.

'I was never attracted to men's bodies but I liked the image of them hurting me during sex in a way a woman never could. I had strong masochistic tendencies.

'They made me believe that I would never be able to get a girlfriend. So I let them convince me I was homosexual.

'I was miserable when I was dating men - they disgusted me. But for me there was no other option at that time.'

It was at 17 that Daniel had a consultation with a specialist - who he claims called him an obvious case of transsexuality.

After just half an hour he walked out with a prescription for HRT and had started planning his bottom surgery.

In January this year he went through further operations to remove his breast implants and have his chest muscles reconstructed

Growing up as a teenager in fear of hisreligion, he blamed his penis for his hormones and sexual urges. Pictured: Left, aged 16, and right, aged 23

He had the surgery at 19, alongside breast implants and lip fillers. He changed his name - Daniel was now Daniela.

In the UK, the NHS faced outrage after the Tavistock gender clinic prescribed puberty blockers to more than a thousand children who were questioning their gender - and many of whom were under 16.

The London-based clinic was told to shut last year after a review by Dr Hilary Cass found it left young people at 'considerable risk' of poor mental health.

It is due to close in May 2024, to be replaced by two regional hubs in the north and south of the country.

Speaking of the clinic, Daniel said: 'It is good that the NHS decided to shut it down. This is insane.

'It's crazy that doctors and specialists provide children with this experimental treatment instead of offering them extensive psychotherapy.

'These people then have to live with drastic lifelong consequences.'

In the years that followed, Daniel lived as a woman - with a flock of potential partners finding him attractive, they didn't mind when he revealed he was transgender.

Although Tereza says she originally found his detransition 'extremely hard', she threw herself behind it when she saw the freedom it was bringing him

After six years of hormonal treatment Daniel stopped injecting himself with estrogen in January

But just a year after the surgery he was already regretting his decision, and says he attempted suicide several times while living as a woman.

Speaking about the time, he continued: 'I felt like I was playing a role, a role that I was faking - which is obviously exactly what every trans person does but they mostly don't think of it that way.

'I had to learn how to talk like a woman, how to walk like one and how to move my hands and fingers like women do.

'I liked the attention, that was the main plus for me. I also loved all the treatments I was undergoing, like lip fillers, microblading of the eyebrows, false lashes, long acrylic nails, pedicure etc.

'I was planning to undergo a lot of plastic surgeries like facelift, nose job etc. Now I'm glad I didn't go through any of that.

'The transition didn't solve anything, it only made everything worse and it was killing me.

'I tried to kill myself on several occasions. I was miserable.

'In the beginning of this year I knew that there were only two options for me - go through a detransition or die.

Further surgery has removed Daniel's implants - but he is having to look into experimental surgery in the hope of getting a new penis

He wants the transition surgery to be banned - and believes doctors should help people struggling with gender dysmorphia by offering them therapy

I knew that my transition was a mistake and I made peace with it. I figured out that there is nothing better for my mental and physical health than simply being what I really am - a man.

'I figured out that my life wasn't as ruined as I used to think it was and that there truly is a way back.'

After six years of hormonal treatment Daniel stopped injecting himself with estrogen in January.

He has had to be injected with artificial testosterone - because his bottom surgery removed his testes and with it any way of producing the hormone naturally. He now feels his strength, facial hair and energy returning.

Further surgery has removed Daniel's implants - but he is having to look into experimental surgery in the hope of getting a new penis.

He wants the transition surgery to be banned - and believes doctors should help people struggling with gender dysmorphia by offering them therapy.

He added: 'Transsexuality should be treated with extensive psychotherapy. Doctors never ask their patients why they think they are transgender.

'In most cases, transsexuals suffer from other mental illnesses like depression, body dysmorphia and often even borderline personality disorder.

'Transgenderism is a widely accepted trend and many people completely ignore the obvious problems with it.

'In its definition, transgenderism and trans propaganda carry signs typically associated with dangerous cults.

'Children should never be exposed to it, it will only confuse them and make them doubt their own identity.'
Daisy Goodwins claim that her breast was touched by Tory London mayoral hopeful Daniel Korski in a Downing Street meeting room ten years ago has caused a right old rumpus. Some think its important, even retrospectively, to call out such actions; others feel that nowadays we are too eager to condemn on the basis of unconfirmed allegations.

I know Daisy, and if there was one person I would regard as capable of handling any unwanted male advances, it would be her. I suspect she would agree.

As she has said, at the time she thought such events were part of the rough and tumble of life. She didnt view herself as a victim.

It wasnt as if Daniel Korski, who denies the claim, was her professional superior. She was a successful television producer and writer, and he was an anonymous political junior.

So she was the senior in that room in every way, including the 15-year age difference.

Daisy Goodwins claim that her breast was touched by Tory London mayoral hopeful Daniel Korski in a Downing Street meeting room ten years ago has caused a right old rumpus

I know Daisy, and if there was one person I would regard as capable of handling any unwanted male advances, it would be her. I suspect she would agree

It wasnt as if Daniel Korski, who denies the claim, was her professional superior. She was a successful television producer and writer, and he was an anonymous political junior

However, it is a mark of just how unpleasant and memorable the experience of having an unwanted hand on your body is that, ten years later, she has chosen to name him now, some time after first writing about the encounter. Bang went his mayoral chances.

Ive been wondering whether, if I were in her position, I would have made the same decision.

I certainly have never experienced any serious sexual attack, but I very much doubt that anyone of my generation escaped some occasion when they found themselves entangled with an octopus or at least facing an embarrassing proposition.

Embarrassing, because it was a nightmare finding a way to reject the proposer without causing hurt or anger, especially to a powerful man. Not easy. We are told that times have changed and the culture is far less tolerant of such goings-on. Is that really so?

It may well be that the frequency of the influential man chasing a woman around the sofa is diminishing. However, there are also more women bosses now, who can make similar advances to men, and as we have seen in the case of Phillip Schofield (who was not guilty of sexual harassment), inappropriate workplace behaviour is not limited to the heterosexual community.

If I were Daisy, I doubt I would have wanted to drag it all up again and make myself the target, as so often happens on these occasions. But also, truthfully, because I would have felt it unlikely that anyone would believe a much younger guy like Korski, surrounded daily by the lissome and ambitious young women of the Tory Party of that time, would view me as a sex object and have the slightest interest in touching my breasts.

Bugged... by a new stick insect theory

During my childhood, my parents were friends with the late Labour politician Richard Crossman and his wife. On a visit to their Cotswolds home, my siblings and I were introduced to their kids new pet  a stick insect, housed in a glass jar.

None of us had ever heard of, or seen, these twig-like bugs before, but immediately afterwards we kept hearing about them and discovering more people who owned them. It became known as the stick insect theory in our family: once you learn of something you hadnt known about, you discover it everywhere.

At the end of last year, I was alerted by my doctor to my Vitamin B12 deficiency. I have an alphabet of vitamins in the bathroom but Id never heard of Vitamin B12. Let alone that a shortage of it can lead to all manner of unpleasant neurological problems.

Now the issue of Vitamin B12 deficiency is all over the health pages, or at any rate the ones Im reading. Is it the case that I was ignorant and should have been more clued up? Or is it another worry that we have previously lived happily without needing to be aware of? Either way, its my current stick insect moment.

Memory lanes been painted Vert de Terre

The Crossmans lived near a village where I spent school holidays as a young child. Last week I was in the neighbourhood and decided to take a drive down memory lane to see how it had changed. Surprisingly little, as it turned out.

The villages are more manicured than they were and seemed less mysterious than I remembered. But then, as a child, the wild hedges, trees and stone walls block out far more light than for adults.

The little postbox on a stand was in the same place, the lane where we went blackberry-picking was undisturbed, and although my scratched initials on the church wall had disappeared, the graveyard contained family names I remembered from 55 years ago.

The most noticeable difference was that every front door, window frame and gate was in that ubiquitous murky grey-green paint, the result of the Farrow & Ball-isation of the countryside.

I dont remember what colour the woodwork in Church Westcote was before, but Im pretty certain it wasnt that colour and didnt have a fancy name like Vert de Terre now found plastered throughout every village in the country.

Unlikely victims of cost-of-living crisis

We all know that the fuel crisis has caused huge rises in prices across the board, but somebody needs to explain to me why it has affected my health, car, pet and home insurance  all hiked up more than usual. And all quoting cost-of-living as the reason.

Surely opportunism is a likely contributor.

Sir Grayson Perry after being made a Knight Bachelor by the Prince of Wales during an investiture ceremony at Windsor Castle, on June 28, 2023

Did Grayson finally bow to convention?

Artist Grayson Perry accepted his well-deserved knighthood at Windsor last week dressed as his female alter ego Claire in a fuchsia satin dress, black patent pumps and sweet little pink handbag.

Did he, I wonder, bow or curtsey to the Prince of Wales?

Even in war, we all need fashion relief

I love that Vogue Ukraine is posting the most fashionable straw bags of the summer on its Instagram account. Staff have created some moving and educative editorial addressing the war in their country, but the team there will know more than anyone how in times of crisis it can be helpful to indulge in a bit of fashion escapism.
King Charles' male private secretary is paid more than double the salary of Queen Camilla's top female aide, it has been revealed.

Sir Clive Alderton, a former diplomat who has worked for the royal family since 2006, earns between 205,000 and 210,000 per year - according to the Sovereign Grant report.

Meanwhile, Sophie Densham, who has been Camilla's private secretary for over a decade, earns between 90,000 and 95,000.

Sir Alderton, 56, is also provided with housing with his rent at an undisclosed amount 'agreed with HM Treasury'. It's believed that he lives in Malborough House, on the Clarence House Estate - the king and queen's London residence - which is a short walk to Buckingham Palace, where his office is.

The figures, first published by The Sunday Times, were revealed for the first time as part of the Sovereign Grant report, which reveals taxpayer-funded expenditure of the royal family.

Sir Clive Alderton (left) a former diplomat who has worked for the royal family since 2006, earns between 205,000 and 210,000 per year - according to the Sovereign Grant report. Meanwhile, Sophie Densham (right) who has been Camilla's private secretary for over a decade, earns between 90,000 and 95,000

Previously, their salaries were paid privately by Charles' Duchy of Cornwall estate - which does not publish salaries.

Royal spending came to 107.5million, but the cost to taxpayers remained static at 86.3million, with royal officials dipping into their reserves to the tune of 20.7million.

The annual Sovereign Grant report detailing how the monarchy is funded by taxpayers, which is made public today, reveals that the late Queen's funeral cost the Palace 1.6million.

Last year's Platinum Jubilee celebrations cost a further 700,000.

A former diplomat, Sir Clive has worked for Clarence House since 2006 and is likely to remain a key figure in the new royal household.

Sir Alderton (pictured), 56, is also provided with housing with his rent at an undisclosed amount 'agreed with HM Treasury'. It's believed that he lives in Malborough House, on the Clarence House Estate - the king and queen's London residence - which is a short walk to Buckingham Palace, where his office is

The trusted courtier once held a Foreign Office role, living in various countries at the start of his career including Singapore, Poland and France.

In 2006, Sir Clive landed the role of deputy Private Secretary to then Prince of Wales and The Duchess of Cornwall, and, promoted to Private Secretary for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs to their Royal Highnesses three years later, becoming ambassador to Mauritania and Morocco.

Since 2015, when he became Charles Principal Private Secretary, he's been a constant by the new King's side .

Meanwhile, Sophie, who is a mother in her forties, is considered a safe pair of hands and a key player in the tight-knit group of aides likely to continue to support the new King and Queen Consort,.

Sophie (pictured) who is a mother in her forties, is considered a safe pair of hands and a key player in the tight-knit group of aides likely to continue to support the new King and Queen Consort

The pair often join the king and queen on royal tours, while their daily duties include overseeing diary arrangements.

What else was in the Sovereign Grant? There were also 444,000 worth of 'exit packages' to 16 members of Queen Elizabeth's staff who lost their jobs. Other key highlights from the 2022/23 review include: Harry and Meghan have now officially 'vacated' Frogmore Cottage after being evicted by the King. The Sussexes have paid for all expenditure incurred by taxpayers in renovating the property  more than 2.4million. But officials refused to discuss whether the Duke of York will be forced to move in, saying it was not appropriate to discuss any of his 'private lease arrangements' on his existing mansion, Royal Lodge. The cost of royal travel has dropped from 4.5million to 3.9million. Energy costs have soared, with utility bills shooting up by 40 per cent to 4.5million. The Sovereign Grant has been frozen at 86.3million, with 51.8million funding the King's official duties plus an additional 34.5million paying for ongoing building works at Buckingham Palace. Palace officials say the cost of the monarchy to the British public still works out at just 1.29 per person. Advertisement

One former senior courtier told the Times: 'I'm really shocked by the disparity and I'm astonished by Sophie's salary  that is a kick in the teeth. She is a real grafter, and hers is a massive, bloody busy job.'

A Palace official added to the paper: 'Her [Densham] remuneration package is set to a comparable position of the private secretary to the late Duke of Edinburgh.'

Payroll costs saw one of the biggest annual increases of any expenditure, rising 3.4million to 27.1million, with lower-paid staff given a pay rise of about 5-6 per cent. Housekeeping and hospitality was up from 1.3million to 2.4million and utility bills soared from 3.2million to 4.5million.

The Palace generated 9.8million in income, primarily from rental agreements and the annual summer opening to the public.

Combined with a 'flat' Sovereign Grant, which has remained at the same level for two years and will not rise next year, lower visitor numbers after Covid and the death of the Queen 'has put pressure on our finances', officials admitted. But they added: 'We are confident that we can balance our needs within the funds we have available to us . . . and we will not be asking the Treasury for more money.'

The Crown Estate, meanwhile, is to pay even more money to the Treasury after an offshore wind power boost. It made 442.6million profit last year, 130million up on the previous year, which the King has made clear he wishes to go to help the public finances.

For the first year the Duchy of Cornwall  which funds the public work and private activities of the Prince of Wales  is not publishing its accounts because there was a transition between Charles and Prince William. The surplus of the estate was 24million which will be split to cover Charles's work as Prince of Wales last year  11.275million  and William, who has received 12.773million.

William, the new Duke of Cornwall, has handed back 6.873million as working capital. Like his father, he is paying income tax.
When Prince Edward and his wife Sophie were given their new titles of the Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh earlier this year, another royal was also given a promotion.

The couple's youngest child, James, formerly Viscount Severn, inherited his fathers subsidiary title, and is now known as the Earl of Wessex.

In recent times, James has been seen by the public at major royal events, however, for many, little is known about the 15-year-old, who lives at Bagshot Park, a 17th-century estate near Windsor, with his parents.

The 15th in line to the throne, and the youngest grandchild of the late Queen Elizabeth II, he was born James Alexander Philip Theo Mountbatten-Windsor in Surrey on December 17, 2007.

When he was born, James (who was described by his father as 'very cute and very cuddly') was eighth in line to the throne, ahead of his older sister Lady Louise Windsor, 19.

James (pictured leaving Westminster Abbey during the funeral of Queen Elizabeth on September 19, 2022) has made several public appearances in recent times

Prince Edward and his son James Viscount Severn attend the Christmas Day service at St Mary Magdalene Church on December 25, 2022

Since then, the introduction of the Succession to the Crown Act means that male children no longer overtake the female siblings when it comes to the order of succession.

The Act was passed in 2013, and only applies to those born after October 28, 2011.

As such, James's place in the order of succession remains ahead of Louise and was unchanged following the birth of Zara Tindall's third baby Lucas, last year.

This is because while Zara's mother Princess Anne is older than Edward, she was also born before the Act came into force.

James, who was reportedly one of the Queen's favourite grandchildren, was baptised in the Private Chapel of Windsor Castle in April 2008.

When Prince Edward tied the knot with Sophie in 1999, they made the decision that any future children would have courtesy titles rather than being called Prince or Princess, which the late monarch agreed with.

James' styling as Viscount Severn (one of his fathers subsidiary titles) is believed to have been chosen to acknowledge Sophies Welsh heritage because the name is taken from the River Severn in Wales.

The now-Edinburghs wanted their children to have as normal a life as possible, given the circumstances, without the burden of such titles.

Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh, James, Viscount Severn and Lady Louise Windsor react during the Platinum Party at Buckingham Palace on June 4, 2022 as part of the Queen's Jubilee celebrations

Prince Edward, Lady Louise Windsor, James Viscount Severn, Sophie, Duchess of Kent, on the balcony at Buckingham Palace during the annual Trooping the Colour Ceremony on June 15, 2013

This desire is largely why relatively little is known about James and Louise, although Sophie has shared some details about her family life, including that they enjoy barbecues, which Prince Edward is 'very good' at.

Speaking to the Times in 2020, when asked how she tries to give the children a 'normal life', the then-Countess asked 'what's normal?' before revealing that they attend 'regular schools' (at the time, both were at independent schools).

According to reports, James has been educated at two independent, co-educational prep schools, nearby to his home - Eagle House School and St Georges School.

However, both these establishments only teach pupils until the age of 13, meaning he likely began attending a new school a couple of years ago.

Speaking about her children's lives, Sophie added that they enjoy sleepovers and parties with friends, and walking their dogs.

Sophie and Edward pictured with baby James as he makes his first appearance at Frimley Park Hospital in Surrey in 2007

While Sophie (pictured, left) admits that 'not everyones grandparents live in a castle', she says her children (James, centre and Louise, right) live as normal a life as possible

'I guess not everyones grandparents live in a castle, but where you are going is not the important part, or who they are,' Sophie added. 'When they are with the Queen, she is their grandmother.'

She also revealed that they were bringing up the children to understand that 'they are very likely to have to work for a living'.

This led into the decision that they don't use HRH titles.

'They have them and can decide to use them from 18, but I think its highly unlikely,' she added.

While Lady Louise is considered academic (her A-level grades were kept a secret, but she was admitted to St Andrews University to study English, which requires AAA results), less is known about James' scholarly aptitude.

Sophie has described her daughter as 'quite clever' saying in the past that she believed she would go to university, then adding 'James I dont know'.

Speaking in 2016 about her attempts to keep her son and daughter out of the public spotlight while they are children, Sophie told the BBC: 'Certainly when they were very young we tried to keep them out of it.

It is not known whether James has strong academic aptitude, but his mother Sophie has suggested he doesn't, previously saying she doesn't know if he will go to university (pictured L-R: Prince Edward, Lady Louise, Sophie, Duchess of Kent, James)

Sophie, Lady Louise, James and Prince Edward attend the Easter Service at St George's Chapel at Windsor Castle in April 2022

'Only because for their sakes, to grow up as normally as possible we felt was quite important.

'And theyre going to have to go out and get a job and earn a living later on in life and if theyve had a normal a start in life they possibly can get, then hopefully that will stand them in good stead.'

James, who has made several notable public appearances in recent times, embarked on his first overseas engagement in April 2015.

Ages 11, he joined his parents and sister in travelling to South Africa, where they visited the non-profit Ubunye Foundation in Grahamstown.

According to Sophie, it was important to her that her children saw that 'there is a huge need to support, protect and nurture the communities that live around and within these beautiful surroundings'.

James Viscount Severn looked sombre as he stood vigil beside his grandmother's coffin at Westminster Hall last September

While James is 'not into social media', according to a 2020 interview by Sophie, she revealed that she and Edward were intending to teach them how to use it 'successfully' as they get older.

She said the virtual world can be 'unkind' at times and she hopes her 'open' relationship with her children will help them navigate it better.

Speaking to Good Housekeeping, the Countess of Wessex, who is patron of the NSPCC and Childline, added that it's 'so important' for young people to have adults in their lives who support and affirm them.

'Social media is here to stay, so it's important for them to understand it and for us to equip them with the tools to navigate it successfully,' she explained.

'I think openness is one way families can support their teenagers. If children feel they can discuss issues and worries with their parents, without fear of them, or their friends, being judged, this may give opportunity to help them with what can be a complex and very pressured area.

'Particularly when the virtual world can be, at times, unkind.'

James and Lady Louise pictured during last year's Trooping The Colour. They were not part of the carriage procession this year, nor were they on the Buckingham Palace balcony

He's largely grown up away from the limelight - but following a number of recent appearances, keen royal watchers will no doubt be wondering what role James, Viscount Severn (pictured attending the Commonwealth Games 2022, in Birmingham) will play in the future of The Firm

Over recent months, James has appeared in public at the late Queen's Platinum Jubilee.

He also appeared alongside his cousins to stand vigil beside his grandmother's coffin at Westminster Hall following her death last September.

The then-14-year-old was seen with his head bowed, as he looked towards the ground during the vigil, which lasted around 10 minutes.

He was praised for displaying a maturity beyond his 14 years during the sombre event.

More recently, in May, James was snapped at the coronation of King Charles, where he looked smart in a black suit which he paired with a white shirt and a burgundy tie.

Later the family appeared on the Buckingham Palace balcony with a select group of senior royals as The Mall was swamped by tens of thousands of cheering supporters.

James was snapped looking smart during a rare public appearance in May, for the coronation of King Charles

James (pictured, second from left) joined his family and other members of The Firm during the coronation of King Charles

Lady Louise and James stood beside their royal parents as they waved to gargantuan crowds before an RAF flypast, which had to be scaled back to just helicopters and the Red Arrows because of the heavy rain in London.

However, James and his sister were not part of the carriage procession at Trooping the Colour in June.

Neither did they appear on the Buckingham Palace balcony, as they did last year, with reports citing the king's desire to limit the places to working royals only.

It was also noted that it was a busy academic time for James, who is working towards his GCSE exams.

Royal watchers will undoubtedly be keeping an eye on the 15-year-old, to see whether the young 'hidden royal' will play a larger role in the public activities of The Firm.
Glamorous revellers got up early to make the most of the final day of Henley Regatta today.

Guests donned their best summer dresses and heels while they headed into the southern English sunshine for the day out.

Others opted to wear their clubs rowing jackets, which were paired with colourful trousers, bucket hats and sunglasses.

The rowing event, which was established in 1839, takes place every year and sees teams compete in more than 300 races along the River Thames in Oxfordshire.

Some rowing fans opted to pair their summer dresses and even their suits with casual trainers or sandals.

Glamorous revellers got up early to make the most of the final day of Henley Regatta today

Casual cool: Many opted for summery looks as they got ready for the celebrations

Regatta goers arrive in their finery on the last day of the event held along The River Thames, one team of rowers looked ready to race

Guests donned their best summer dresses and heels while they headed into the southern English sunshine for the day out

In 2021 it was announced that women would be allowed to wear trousers to the Henley Royal Regatta for the first time since it was established.

The long-standing sartorial rules - which asked for over-the-knee skirts and no trousers, and a blazer or smart jacket - crumbled under pressure from campaigners who branded the former dress code 'symbolic of an era when women couldn't compete and were just there to look pretty.'

The regatta will see national clubs from up and down the country vying for glory on the River Thames in a number of races.

The popular sporting event - which was first staged in 1839 and has been held annually every year since, except during the two World Wars and 2020 due to Covid-19 - comes hand-in-hand with a day of picnics and drinking.

Teams compete in over 300 races of an international standard on the Thames, which can include Olympic rowers as well as crews new to the event.

Some rowing fans opted to pair their summer dresses and even their suits with casual trainers or sandals

Typical posh touches including boater hats were seen among the guests, while one carried a Fortnum & Mason picnic basket and many clutched onto bottles of champagne

The popular sporting event - which was first staged in 1839 and has been held annually every year since, except during the two World Wars and 2020 due to Covid-19 - comes hand-in-hand with a day of picnics and drinking

A sea of colours were seen among the well-heeled revellers, as well as many opting for white numbers.

Typical posh touches including boater hats were seen among the guests, while one carried a Fortnum & Mason picnic basket and many clutched onto bottles of champagne.

This year, the six-day regatta will for the first time allow international entrants to the junior men's eights, as well as teams from British private and state schools.

Sir Steve Redgrave, chairman of the Henley Royal Regatta, said one major British private school feared opening up the Princess Elizabeth Challenge Cup to international teams would mean students competing against 'superclubs'.

Sir Steve said he attended a meeting of 55 schools where one private school, which he didn't name, wanted the cup to remain closed to international competitors.

But he added it was going to happen 'sooner or later' and it was the 'right thing to do'.

This year, the six-day regatta will for the first time allow international entrants to the junior men's eights, as well as teams from British private and state schools

The regatta will see national clubs from up and down the country vying for glory on the River Thames in a number of races. Two revellers are seen today

Ready for action! One family appeared to have their picnic baskets ready to go at the regatta

Sheer beauty! Another woman looked stunning in a semi-sheer white dress and flats

Water load of fun! Two guests head into Henley ahead of the final day of celebrations

Looking Gru-vy! One regatta goer breaked away form the posh looks with a Despicable Me backpack

All stripe mate! Another reveller opted for his best finery as he headed into the day out

Keeping sun safe! Two revellers opted for oversized hats as they got ready for the day ahead

Red-dy to go! Marron striped jackets were popular with many guest

In a podcast this month, Sir Steve was asked whether schools, including Eton College, St Paul's School and St Edward's School, should be concerned about the rise of 'big US clubs coming over to race  they are very fast'.

He said: 'One of those top schools didn't want it. But it was going to happen sooner or later. We can't stop this, in fact it's the right thing to do.'

Sir Steve explained that rowing cities in the United States were 'huge' and clubs were state-wide and not school-oriented like in Britain.

He said this meant their rowing clubs were a 'little bit bigger' because they draw upon rowers from more schools.

The chairman added: 'What we don't want is any country to be able to put a crew together, which is almost a national eight [team].

'It's not an event for national eights  it's for the top juniors from their rowing establishments.'

The regatta near Henley-on-Thames was established in 1839. The Princess Elizabeth Challenge Cup began in 1946, but only allowed entrants from public schools.
Andrea Birbilis anticipated about 100 students would sign up for music lessons in the Auburn area this summer. Instead, 150 students have registered.

Birbilis, a longtime music educator and program manager for the 2023 summer music lesson program, sponsored by the Auburn NY Music Boosters, expressed excitement over the anticipated turnout.

"We never expected this many kids, but we're certainly not going to turn them away," she said.

The free program, in which young musicians from fourth- through 12th-grade across several Cayuga County-area school districts will receive instrument lessons, will be held Monday, July 10 through Friday, Aug. 11, culminating in a performance 6 p.m., Aug. 11 at the New York State Equal Rights Heritage Center, 25 South St., Auburn.

The program was through the Purple Lancers Drum & Bugle Corps last year but is now held by the Auburn boosters. A news release from Birbilis said participants will get open air lessons from educators specializing in a particular instrument on a weekly basis.

"The sessions will focus on developing better understanding of rhythms, tone production, and ensemble playing. These lessons are a much needed part of student music education," the release added. The program has six teachers.

Registration is full, Birbilis noted, with most of the students hailing from within Auburn district, although there will be students from the Cato-Meridian, Jordan-Elbridge, Moravia, Port Byron, Southern Cayuga, Union Springs and Weedsport districts. Most of the students will be getting instruments from their local school's music program but there are a number of students who don't have access to instruments. Instrument donations are appreciated.

Birbilis talked about why she believes music education is important for children.

"I think that with the problems that kids face today  bullying, mental health issues that we're facing  music is the way to express yourself," she said. "When you can't figure out what the words are to express what you're (feeling,) you can bury yourself in the music and the music will talk for you," she said.

Those who want to place their child on the program's wait list or donate instruments can email auburnnymusicboosters@gmail.com or reach out to the Auburn NY Music Boosters through their Facebook page.
Some of the UK's top restaurants are charging hundreds of pounds to guests that cancel their reservations.

This means some customers have been left with hefty bills despite not getting anything to eat.

The Ledbury in London, which has two Michelin stars, charges 195 for guests that cancel within 48 hours of their booking.

Meanwhile, Core by Clare Smyth, which has three Michelin stars, has a similar policy charging 150 per head for guests that cancel.

And it's not just the country's fanciest restaurants that are charging fees.

An analysis by the Observer found that 90 of the UK's top 100 restaurants - named in the National Restaurant Awards - charge for cancellations and no shows, with some charging a fee for up to two weeks in advance.

The highest fee is Ynyshir, (pronounced inish-eer), in Machynlleth, Wales. Voted the best restaurant in the UK, it charges customers 375 a head for dinner, with sales 'final and non-refundable

The highest fee is Ynyshir, (pronounced inish-eer), in Machynlleth, Wales.

Voted the best restaurant in the UK, it charges customers 375 a head for dinner, with sales 'final and non-refundable'.

Guests who can't make the date can reschedule but need to give a minimum of two weeks notice.

Chefs have previously spoken of the difficulties with last minute cancellations and no shows, with many saying it can crumble the restaurant industry - which is already fragile post-Covid.

Celebrity chef Tom Kerridge previously berated customers who failed to show up at his London restaurant.

Core by Clare Smyth, which has three Michelin stars, has a similar policy charging 150 per head for guests that cancel

He wrote: 'To the 27 people that booked @kerridgesbandg and then failed to turn up on a Saturday night...This industry, like many others is on the verge of collapse.

'Your behaviour is disgraceful, shortsighted and down right unhelpful...all of you 'no shows' in all restaurants up and down the country and adding to the issues already being faced...YOU are putting peoples jobs more at risk...

'We put staff levels to the number of covers booked and when you fail to turn up, it now costs us, which in turn will force very uncomfortable and hard decisions about staffing levels.

'You are the worst kind of guest, and that is 'selfish.' I hope you have a good look at yourselves...'

James Snowdon, co-founder of the Palmerston in Edinburgh told the Observer that they once charged 10 per head but 'no one blinked an eyelid', so increased it to 20 each.

One customer told the paper they cancelled at a restaurant five hours in advanced after being delayed on her way there from the Cotswolds, only to be charged 125.

'I did cancel on the same day, but I would never not turn up. I figured I would be giving them some time to fill the space,' she said.

Other restaurants include Salt in Stratford-upon-Avon, who charge 55 for their tasting menu.

'If someone cancels midweek within 48 hours, we struggle to resell the table,' he says. 'It is dead money. With that table being open, food has been ordered, prep has begun and staff have been scheduled. I'm very strict with it, and we have lost customers from it in the past,' he said.

Other less exclusive restaurants also charge for no shows.

The Tamil Prince in Islington charges 35-a-head for late cancellation up to six-hours before booking.
A cluster of mysterious brain diseases has struck down at least 200 people in a small province and baffled doctors.

More than 200 residents in New Brunswick, Canada, have been affected by the dementia-like disorder that causes vivid hallucinations, an inability to talk and write, memory lapses and even physical paralysis.

Experts say the cases date back to 2015 and are among people aged 18 to 84, dozens of whom were healthy before being struck down by the mystery illness.

One of those patients is Gabrielle Cormier who, at age 20, had to pause her love of figure skating and leave university when she fell ill in 2019, becoming so debilitated that she now needs a wheelchair.

Health officials investigating the cases are probing whether the culprit is food and water contaminated with blue-green algae blooms in water sources.

Another was heavy exposure to the herbicide glyphosate.

What began as an all-hands-on-deck government-wide investigation in 2021 ended in officials insisting in February 2022 that the cases were not related.

The government's abrupt halt to its probe into the mysterious condition suggested to medical experts that it was aiming to protect its financial interests, namely the area's massive fishing and forest industries.

One doctor at the center of the mystery, Dr Alier Marrero, continued to press for a government-led investigation and saw patients in New Brunswick presenting with the symptoms, telling Canadaland recently that the number of cases had exceeded 200.

The patients were primarily in two areas of New Brunswick: Moncton and the Acadian Peninsula.

Dr Marrero, a physician based in Moncton, was the first to spot the symptoms in patients there.

By 2018, Dr Marrero had seen eight total cases. The next year the total was 20, then 38 the year after that. And up to 48 by April 2021. After that, the province stopped keeping count.

But patients still sought help from Dr Marrero, who had become one of Canada's top authorities on the mysterious cluster of cases.

He informed government officials in 2021 that he had just referred two new patients  one in their 30s, another in their 50s  who were experiencing progressive Alzheimers Disease.

A barrage of blood tests, spinal taps, and brain scans performed on the patients revealed brain atrophy and neurological dysfunction, but not in such a uniform way across patients that Dr Marrero could find a clear diagnosis.

Most patients were experiencing dementia-like symptoms. Some suddenly were unable to form words and had uncontrollable muscle spasms, difficulty moving, and fatigue.

Gabriel Cormier, now 23, experienced memory loss, vision problems, and the inability to stand for long periods, resulting in her having to walk with a cane or use a wheelchair after becoming sick in October 2019.

DREAM SNATCHED FROM HER: Cormier says she had a passion for figure skating since she was eight years old, adding 'it was my life'. But the mysterious dementia-like neurological illness rendered her unable to walk independently and she had to give up skating as well as her time at university

She told a Canadian news outlet in 2021: 'Im trying to make a bad situation better by making my cane pretty.'

'The reason we went to the rink again was because I was afraid that I was going to die and I wanted to be on the ice one last time.;

The investigation, which was eyeing possible environmental toxicity as a cause, ground to an abrupt halt in May 2021.

Suddenly, the notion that the cluster of cases was a cluster at all came into question based on criteria early in the investigation that limited participation in the 'cluster' to patients who did not have a known diagnosis.

Government investigators said: 'There is no evidence of a cluster of neurological syndrome of unknown cause.

'Neurological conditions can be very difficult to diagnose and it is frequently the case that individuals exhibit less common presentations of known diseases; however people who were part of this cluster displayed symptoms that varied significantly from case to case and there was no evidence of a shared common illness or of a syndrome of unknown cause.'

The average age of Alzheimer's symptoms onset is mid-60s and the fact that his patients skewed much younger concerned Dr Marrero.

In May 2021, Dr Marrero wrote to officials: 'I do have, unfortunately, more and younger patients.

'One of the most striking characteristics of our patients are the hallucinations (visual, but also tactile and auditory) and the always terrifying hallucinatory dreams, that evolve to be constant even when they are awake.'

At that point, there had been nine deaths due to the disease, which Ottawa-based neuropathologist Dr Gerard Jansen chalked up to diagnosable neurological conditions including a brain tumor and vascular dementia.

But Dr Marrero had not given up on his inkling that environmental toxins were to blame.

He discovered a comprehensive diagnostic test designed in Quebec that would measure his patients' exposure to herbicides used in their area.

Dr Marrero told the Canadaland podcast: 'So far we've had about 200 patients tested. Initally I didn't know myself that this was available and I thought they only test one substance but in fact they test four.'

The four herbicides that are tested are widely used in the province.

'The great majority of my patients show exposure well beyond detection level to one or more of these substances, and sometimes very high. I'm talking about people who are not professionally exposed. They're not working in this [agricultural] industry anyway, and this is wintertime.'

The neurological condition ailing New Brunswick residents is just one of many mysterious health issues that have plagued people with no obvious cause.

Perhaps the most notable is Havana syndrome, a condition of unknown origin that first appeared in US diplomats stationed in Cuba in 2016.

More recently, CDC researchers have honed in on a rash of rare and serious brain abscesses in children in and around Las Vegas, Nevada.

The number of brain abscesses in minors tripled in Nevada last year, shooting up from an average of four or five a year to 18.

Physicians are not sure what has caused the rise, but said it could be due to weakened immunity to infections due to Covid measures such as lockdowns.
The patient thought she was obese, which doctors blamed on lack of education

A woman in Italy had a cyst the size of a medicine ball removed from her ovaries after she assumed she was just obese.

The unnamed 52-year-old woman underwent a six-and-a-half-hour long operation to remove the 11lbs mass, which formed on her right ovary and grew to 40 centimeters in length.

Doctors blamed the late diagnosis on the fact that she was poor and had a low level of education, so she didn't realize she needed to seek out medical help.

The patient, a 52-year-old woman from Italy, had an 11-pound ovarian cyst that caused her abdomen to become extremely swollen. She also complained or early satiety, meaning that she would become full after eating very little food, constipation, difficulty walking, and trouble breathing

When doctors removed the 11-pound mass, the patient lost six liters of blood, about 25 cups or 200 ounces. She remained in this hospital for two months, half of which was in the intensive care unit, where she went into cardiac arrest

The patient presented with an extremely swollen abdomen and reflux, which is when stomach acid or bile comes back up through the esophagus.

She also complained of becoming full very quickly, constipation, difficulty walking, and trouble breathing.

An ultrasound revealed that her abdominal cavity was entirely occupied by lesions.

The cyst was 15 inches (40 centimeters) long and weighed 11 pounds (about five kilograms).

Despite the massive cyst, she had normal menstrual cycles with no hormonal effects.

CT scan of the tumor before surgery

The operation to remove the growth was considered high risk, but researchers wrote that 'surgery is mandatory' in these cases.

The doctors drained the cyst of 37 liters of dense brown fluid before performing a hysterectomy, a procedure to remove the uterus, and taking out the ovaries.

A plastic surgeon then reconstructed the abdomen wall, as the cyst had spread across that entire area.

The surgery lasted about six and a half hours, during which the patient lost six liters of blood. This is equal to about 25 cups or 200 ounces. She received transfusions for the blood loss.

Before surgery, the patient was 271 pounds (123 kilograms) and had a body mass index (BMI) of 50.5, making her morbidly obese.

At the end of the procedure, her BMI was 28.3.

The patient stayed in the intensive care unit for about 30 days, during which she went into cardiac arrest and acute kidney failure.

She remained in the hospital for two months. After two years, 'she is completely recovered and disease free,' the researchers wrote.

They said that the 'delayed diagnosis in this woman was probably due to her low socio-economic and educational status, which led the patient to postpone medical evaluation since she assumed she was getting obese.'

Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sacs that develop on or inside one of a woman's two ovaries.

Most of the time these are harmless and most women are not aware they have them unless they show up in a scan.

Experts estimate one in 10 American women experience them, and about five to 10 percent of women undergo surgery.

Most of these occur naturally and disappear in a few months without needing any treatment.

An ovarian cyst usually only causes symptoms if it splits, is very large, or blocks the blood supply to the ovaries.

Symptoms, according to the Mayo Clinic, include dull or sharp pelvic brain that comes and goes, fullness or heaviness in your belly, bloating, pain during sex, and heavy or painful periods.

If a cyst bursts, it may cause sharp pain in the back or lower belly, spotting, bloating, nausea or vomiting, fever, and dizziness.

The vast majority of ovarian cysts are non-cancerous (benign), although a small number are cancerous (malignant). Cancerous cysts are more common in women who have been through the menopause.

The woman in the case study had a borderline ovarian tumor, which are masses made up of abnormal cells. They're not cancerous, but they have the potential to turn into cancer.

The researchers wrote that borderline tumors account for about 10 percent of ovarian cyst cases.

Ovulation, when a mature egg releases from the ovary so it can move down the fallopian tubes and become fertilized, is the leading cause of ovarian cysts.

Ovarian cysts can sometimes also be caused by an underlying condition, such as endometriosis.

Other risk factors include hormonal issues, pregnancy, and pelvic infection. If you have had an ovarian cyst in the past, you're more likely to develop additional ones.

The case report was published last week in the American Journal of Case Reports.
Undergoing an ultrasound scan while a contraceptive coil is fitted can reduce pain as well as lower the risk of complications, a study has found.

Doctors use the images created by high-frequency sound waves to guide the device into the womb, ensuring it doesn't end up lodged in the wrong position.

If set incorrectly, the T-shaped coil  made from either copper or plastic  can push on muscle or become loose, causing pain and bleeding.

About a million women in the UK have the procedure every year  mostly carried out in sexual health clinics or GP surgeries  which reduces the risk of pregnancy by 99 per cent and also combats symptoms of the menopause.

TV host Davina McCall had her coil procedure filmed for Channel 4 documentary Pill Revolution last month, in which she explored concerns about the contraceptive pill. The 55-year-old has the Mirena coil, which releases a synthetic hormone that mimics the effects of progesterone to block pregnancy. In the show she describes the painful fitting.

TV host Davina McCall had her coil procedure filmed for Channel 4 documentary Pill Revolution last month, in which she explored concerns about the contraceptive pill

If set incorrectly, the T-shaped coil (pictured)  made from either copper or plastic  can push on muscle or become loose, causing pain and bleeding

But data published in the Journal of Ultrasound in Medicine shows that when the fitting is carried out using an ultrasound scan, patients are far less likely to experience pain. The gynaecologists also found the scan sped up the procedure and reduced the risk of the device becoming dislodged later on.

Currently, ultrasound scans are offered only to women in hospital who have a history of difficult fittings. Some doctors argue the new findings mean a scan should be offered to all.

'It's difficult to argue that it shouldn't be standard practice,' says Dr Joel Naftalin, a consultant gynaecologist at University College London.

But other doctors have warned that rolling out the procedure could be difficult.

'Most GPs are not trained to use this scan and don't have an ultrasound machine in their surgery,' says Dr Philippa Kaye, a GP who specialises in women's health.
Police have revealed the moment they uncovered a criminal gang's supercar 'chop shop'  where stolen cars are stripped of their parts.

Essex Police's Stolen Vehicle Intelligence Unit recovered 1million of stolen luxury cars this week in one of its most successful hauls ever.

It came after MailOnline revealed footage of thieves using relay devices to steal two cars despite the drivers keeping their keys in special theft-proof cases.

The specialist police unit from Essex stepped up its efforts to beat criminal gangs after it returned a load of luxury cars to their rightful owners including a Rolls Royce, a Bentley Bentayga and several Range Rovers.

Specialist officer PC Paul Gerrish said: 'Our work is dedicated to the disruption of organised criminal gangs and we make sure car thieves are never comfortable in Essex.

A team of specialist police officers have revealed the moment they uncovered a criminal gang's chop shop in Essex (Photo: Essex Police)

Essex Police's Stolen Vehicle Intelligence Unit recovered 1million of stolen luxury cars this week in one of its most successful hauls ever (Photo: Essex Police)

A chop shop (pictured) is where stolen cars are stripped of their parts so they can be sold (Photo: Essex Police)

The specialist police unit from Essex stepped up its efforts to beat criminal gangs after it returned a load of luxury cars to their rightful owners including a Rolls Royce, a Bentley Bentayga and several Range Rovers (Photo: Essex Police)

Criminals had already started taking apart this Mercedes when police raided the chop shop (Photo: Essex Police)

'We aim to make this a hostile county for car thieves to operate in.

'Our work stretches beyond recovering individual stolen cars and encompasses the wider network of criminality behind each theft.

'Every year, we track down more stolen vehicles and as we do, we build up a bigger and better intelligence picture.'

In the last few months they have located and recovered a range of Ferraris and Aston Martins.

A Rolls Royce Cullinan recovered during recent operations was worth more than 360,000 alone.

Although the team has just three officers - husband and wife duo Hannah Gerrish and PC Paul Gerrish, and PC Phil Pentelow - the unit has already recovered 12million in stolen cars this year.

They have also dismantled 15 chop shops.

In the last few months they have located and recovered a range of Ferraris and Aston Martins (Photo: Essex Police)

Specialist officer PC Paul Gerrish said: 'Our work is dedicated to the disruption of organised criminal gangs and we make sure car thieves are never comfortable in Essex' (Photo: Essex Police)

He added: 'Our work stretches beyond recovering individual stolen cars and encompasses the wider network of criminality behind each theft' (Photo: Essex Police)

The team studies car thefts to look for patterns of offending and in the last six months alone has intercepted almost 50 shipping containers  all full of stolen vehicles and parts  destined to leave the country.

The cost to insurers of car thefts has quadrupled from 360million in 2006 to a whopping 1.54billion in just 16 years.

Many criminals use relay theft to steal cars without physically breaking parts of the car.

Instead, they can get into a car in seconds, without using blunt force or needing a key, all by exploiting electronic key fobs.

Car thefts rose by a quarter last year, in part due to this form of theft.

Many criminals use relay theft to steal cars without physically breaking parts of the car

Relay theft sees criminals simply stand outside a house with a car parked outside, then use a device called a keyless repeater, which works by extending the limited range of a normal keyless fob.

That tricks the car into thinking the fob is closer than it is, letting criminals unlock it remotely and steal the car and any valuables left inside it.

Once a car is stolen, thieves may look to quickly sell it on, strip it for parts, or ship either the whole car or parts of it abroad to places such as the Middle East and Africa.

There, the vehicles can be sold for two or three times more than they would cost in the UK.

Spare parts are also in huge demand there.

Thieves or handlers of the stolen vehicles may also obtain false or cloned identities, then sell the vehicles on to unsuspecting members of the public in the UK or distribute them to other criminals.

Although the team has just three officers - husband and wife duo Hannah Gerrish (right) and PC Paul Gerrish (centre), and PC Phil Pentelow (left) - the unit has already recovered 12million in stolen cars this year (Photo: Essex Police)

Once a car is stolen, thieves may look to quickly sell it on, strip it for parts, or ship either the whole car or parts of it abroad to places such as the Middle East and Africa (Photo: Essex Police)

Thieves or handlers of the stolen vehicles may also obtain false or cloned identities, then sell the vehicles on to unsuspecting members of the public in the UK or distribute them to other criminals (Photo: Essex Police)

PC Pentelow said: 'Our work doesn't just encompass the recovery of high-end cars' (Photo: Essex Police)

He added: 'Our dismantling of chop shops and our intelligence-led work takes into consideration vehicles of all values and types' (Photo: Essex Police)

Last month three men were arrested as part of an investigation into the theft of 640,000 of stolen vehicles found by the team.

The operation, which was intelligence-led, saw the stolen vehicle intelligence unit, the operational support group and the dog section attend a garage in Canvey Island, near Southend, on May 24.

During a search, officers found cars that had been reported as stolen from London, Surrey, Thames Valley and Essex.

Three men all aged in their twenties were arrested on suspicion of handling stolen goods.

They have been released on conditional bail until August while the team's investigation continues.

PC Pentelow said: 'Our work doesn't just encompass the recovery of high-end cars.

'Our dismantling of chop shops and our intelligence-led work takes into consideration vehicles of all values and types.

'We are very aware that victims rely on their vehicles as far more than a mode of transport.

'In most cases your car is the second-highest value purchased item in your life, and people work hard to get them.

'We do not accept when criminals show no care or consideration for this fact.

'We also find it unacceptable when these criminals happily put other members of the public at risk by using these stolen vehicles on public roads.'
Floats on the London Stock Exchange plunged by a third in the first six months of 2023.

Eighteen firms listed during this time, compared with 26 in the same period of last year.

It was also much lower than in 2021, when 49 companies went public. Middle Eastern luxury property group Dar Global was one of the few to list early in 2023, with a 480m float back in March.

Slump: Companies pulled floats and mergers in 2020 at the height of the pandemic

The slump comes after a bruising start to the year when a slew of big-name firms said they would ditch their London listings for New York. Among them were microchip company ARM despite a campaign by ministers.

Within days several other firms also said they were looking across the Atlantic, with building materials group CRH later moving its shares to New York.

The LSE took another hit earlier this month when WE Soda, the world's largest producer of natural soda ash, U-turned on London two weeks after unveiling its plans for a 6billion listing.

The Turkish company blamed 'extreme investor caution' in the UK.

Companies pulled floats and mergers in 2020 at the height of the pandemic. In 2021 there was a flood of listings as markets rebounded  but there has been a dearth of new joiners for the past 18 months.
Calls for change: Mulberry has also joined criticism of the tourist tax

European countries are reaping the rewards of tax-free shopping schemes for tourists while the UK misses out, new statistics have revealed  re-igniting calls for Chancellor Jeremy Hunt to take urgent action.

London is floundering thanks to its tourist tax while rival cities in France, Portugal and Italy have seen their pandemic recoveries buoyed by visitors flocking back to buy luxury goods.

European sales via refund schemes are getting closer to a pre-pandemic peak, after increasing 10 per cent in May from the previous month, according to data from retail tech firm Planet.

It means tax-free sales in Europe are just 14 per cent below where they were in May 2019.

This represents the best month for retailers on the continent since the end of the pandemic.

And the UK is set to score an own goal this summer as American and Chinese tourists return to the continent with cash to spend on pricey goods abroad.

There was a 27 per cent uptick in the amount US tourists spent with European retailers in May compared with April, as the summer tourism season gets into full swing.

This means sales to US customers are now 71 per cent above pre-pandemic levels and 83 per cent higher for the year to date  but they are taking their custom to other countries and shunning the UK.

Tax-free sales of luxury products to international visitors surpassed pre-Covid levels in France last month, with Portugal also enjoying a recovery to its 2019 levels.

'While European retailers look forward to the prospect of further summer growth  as US and Chinese visitors continue to spend across the continent  UK retailers continue to be disadvantaged by the lack of a Tax-Free shopping scheme which means they are not competing on a level playing field,' Luca Cassina, president of retail at Planet, claimed.

It comes as London risks losing its status as a premier destination for tourists to shop, endangering a wider ecosystem of hotels, restaurants and cultural gems.

More than 300 business leaders have backed The Mail's 'Scrap The Tourist Tax' campaign, which was launched to echo industry pleas for the Government to change its stance.

Thierry Andretta, the boss of Mulberry, has also joined criticism of the levy, saying last week there was 'no doubt' the tourist tax had dragged down UK sales while stores in European capitals were flourishing.

It came after the company sounded alarm bells over the policy when it announced it was closing its flagship store on Bond St in February, which had seen a 'dramatic drop' in trade since the tax was introduced.

Critics say that  far from the Treasury's claim that scrapping the tourist tax would cost 2billion a year  there would be a net gain of around 350m.

A Treasury spokesman said: 'We are backing high street retailers by slashing business rates bills by 75 per cent and effectively cutting corporation tax by 27billion through full-expensing.'
A major pool company has suddenly collapsed, leaving clients with unfinished projects and a pile of dirt in their backyards.

Scenic Pools, based in Sydney, describes itself as a fibreglass pool building company that is about 'complete transparency'.

Owners of the company emailed customers on May 3 telling them the business was no longer trading and a liquidator would be in touch as soon as possible.

But Scenic Pools wasn't yet in liquidation, with the corporate watchdog confirming the company was placed into receivership on June 21.

Several clients have come forward to reveal the completion date of their pools had been delayed in the lead-up to the company's collapse and are still unfinished.

They confronted the director before receiving a string of confusing emails that contained various excuses ranging from personal drama to staff shortages.

Rakesh Goel is one Scenic Pools customer who has been left with a giant hole in his backyard after the pool company suddenly collapsed

Tony, from North Curl Curl in Sydney's northern beaches, has been left with an empty pool shell and a giant pile of dirt after Scenic Pools went bust

Tony has paid the company $84,000 for what he claims is essentially now a half-built pool

Tony, from North Curl Curl in Sydney's northern beaches, has been left with an empty pool shell and a giant pile of dirt.

He'd signed a contract with the company in May last year, with work on the pool beginning in January.

While the excavation of the pool went fine, Tony said there were several delays and cancellations surrounding the pool's installation.

Eventually a shell of his pool was delivered, but when it came to installing the backfill of his pool, there were even more setbacks.

March 21 was the last day any workers turned up on Tony's site, despite nearly half of the work still yet to be completed.

Tony received an email on April 8 from one of the company's directors, David Afoa, apologising for the delay and saying a 'family tragedy' was to blame, as well as inadequate staff who have since been let go.

'I personally will be stepping in to give you confidence that your job will be completed in the month of April,' Mr Afoa wrote.

'All I ask if that you give me time and some flexibility at this unbelievably difficult time.'

Tony received an email on April 8 from one of the company's directors, David Afoa, apologising for the delay and saying a 'family tragedy' was to blame, as well as inadequate staff

Pictured are a string of emails Tony sent Mr Afoa asking for urgent work to be carried out on his unfinished pool

With still no work carried out, Tony kept sending more emails, demanding to know what was happening, adding the heavy amount of rain was affecting the pool's installation.

Mr Afoa sent another email on April 17 blaming staff shortages for the work, but said if all went to plan, he could have a team out in the next week.

Communication continued back and forth until May 3 when Scenic Pools sent one final email, claiming they had gone into liquidation.

'It comes with great sadness and regret that yesterday it was established that Scenic Pools is no longer trading,' the email read.

'I hope that you can understand that this has been the hardest decision we have had to make and we are devastated with the outcome.

Pictured is Tony's pool in the backyard of his North Curl Curl home

Mr Afoa sent another email on April 17 blaming staff shortages for the work, but said if all went to plan, he could have a team out in the next week

Scenic Pools told clients in early May the company was no longer trading

'Our liquidator will be in contact with the next steps and hopefully everything will be resolved asap. Unfortunately we are no longer able to be in contact.'

Tony has paid the company $84,000 for what is essentially now a half-built pool.

'All they've done is dug a hole and put the shell in,' he said.

Due to recent heavy rain, the pool shell has moved and the base is now uneven.

Tony expects he'll have to fork out another $80,000 just to have the pool repaired and installed properly.

'My backyard is unsafe and if it rains, I have a floating pool,' he said.

Tony's eldest son lives with severe autism and the exposed worksite in the backyard has raised fears he could become injured.

Mr Goel paid $64,000 for what is now a hole in his backyard. He'd bought the pool from Scenic Pools for his three children

'He's a runner and we've got to watch him the whole time because now my backyard is unsafe,' Tony said.

'It's basically a construction zone.'

Another client, Rakesh Goel, from Kellyville in Sydney's northwest, signed a contract with Scenic Pools in late last year, and work began in his backyard in late February 2023.

He paid $64,000 all up for his pool in April - 98 per cent of the total price - which he said was outlined in the contract.

But Mr Goel, a father-of-three who bought the pool for his children, said he felt like he was being 'rushed' to hand over the money.

'I felt like there was a rush to get the money without any intention to complete the work,' he said.

Mr Goel has now been left with an open two-metre deep pit that's just a metre away from his family home

'The moment I paid the remainder of the money, they disappeared.'

He's now been left with an open two-metre deep pit that's just a metre away from his family home.

'I was trying to call and email but after so many follow ups they just sent the email about going into liquidation,' Mr Goel said.

'My kids are the reason I wanted the pool and now there's danger in my backyard because I've got this pit so close to my house.'

A source from the company said an investor pulled out at the last minute which ultimately led to the business' collapse.

They said they were trying to get the business into liquidation so clients could immediately start the insurance process, but an internal dispute at the company meant they were unable to do so.

A spokesperson from Scenic Pools told Daily Mail Australia the company has gone into administration, with Edwin Sanjesh Narayan appointed as receiver.

'During the operation of our business, we serviced many happy customers and always complied with our contractual obligations in relation to payment terms and insurances,' they said.

'Unfortunately, due to many external difficulties, the resignation of a director and general market and economic pressures, we are one of the 2,000 construction businesses that went into liquidation in the last 12 months and were unable to continue to trade.

'It is very sad for our employees, customers and of course, our own family. We had, of course, hoped for a better outcome for everyone.

'Pool building is a very challenging business and has faced huge impacts across the country with around one pool business closing each week as we face this recession.

'Fortunately, we hold all the correct insurances in the event of insolvency so any customer or creditor who has a claim, proof of debt or other concern may contact the liquidator to lodge that claim and seek reimbursement.'
'Thank you so much for sharing,' says a member of an online forum, discussing tips on how to create your own version of artificial intelligence 'chatbot' ChatGPT.

'Are there any plans to share your previous models?'

It sounds innocent enough, but this is just one of dozens of dark web pedophile groups exchanging advice on how to build 'uncensored' chatbots that can produce reams of child porn.

Chatbots are computer programs that use artificial intelligence (AI) to interact with humans. They have become increasingly sophisticated in recent years, with users able to ask them to generate lengthy pieces of text, or create life-like images.

And now predators are exploiting advances in the technology to create horrific, highly-realistic child abuse material.

It's been made possible after some tech firms released the code used to create their AI programs to to the public.

Their aim was to democratize the technology, but they have also opened Pandora's box.

Tech firms have released the codes behind their revolutionary chatbots to the public, meaning amateur tech heads can rip out safeguards that prevented them from being abused

It has led to a spike in AI-generated child sex abuse material, with 80 percent of pedophiles on one dark web forum saying they had or were planning to use AI to create child porn

These forums have become a hotbed for predators to share disgusting material they have made using the 'uncensored' bots

'Uncensored' AI

Chatbots made by firms such as OpenAI, Microsoft and Google come with rigorous safeguards, designed to prevent them from being used to produce malicious content.

But in February, Meta - the tech giant which owns Facebook, Instagram and WhatsApp - decided to make their code public, allowing amateur tech heads to rip out these filters.

Smaller tech companies followed suit.

Supporters of this 'open-source' AI say it blasts a hole through corporate control and accelerates innovation by making this powerful technology available to entrepreneurs, academics and scientists.

Meta - owned by Mark Zuckerberg - claims its move 'is a positive force to advance technology'.

Some models have been used to discover new pharmaceuticals or pesticides, for example, but they are also open to abuse.

YouTubers with more than 100,000 subscribers have posted tutorials explaining how to create 'uncensored AI', demonstrating how these new chatbots will answer questions like 'how to make a bomb' or 'how to make meth', that other models would refuse to answer.

Others are being used to satisfy sexual desires.

One video with around 180,000 views begins with an AI-generated voiceover asking: 'Do you have a girlfriend, or a boyfriend?'

It tells viewers not to worry, 'because now we have PygmalionAI', an uncensored chatbot 'fine-tuned' for 'hot roleplay'.

Some chatbots created using modified versions of Meta's chatbot model are able to carry out graphic rape and abuse fantasies.

This YouTube video, which has around 180,000 views, teaches viewers how to use an uncensored chatbot to satisfy sexual fantasies such as 'hot roleplay'

Mark Zuckerberg's Meta was the first tech giant to release the model behind its chatbot

The company said it believed 'open-source' AI is 'a positive force to advance technology'

A pedophile's guide to AI

But it is the growth of AI-generated child pornography that has caught the eye of the FBI.

The agency warned earlier this month that it had detected a spike in the number of 'malicious actors' using AI to turn photos of children into 'sexually-themed images that appear true-to-life'.

Uncensored chatbots allow predators to create this abusive content at greater speed and volume than using 'deepfakes', for example, because they are easier to use and can quickly generate multiple images from a single instruction.

Thousands of AI child-sex images now litter the dark web amid what analysts have described as a 'predatory arms race'.

Computer-generated child-sex abuse material (CSAM) has almost tripled over the past year on one forum, according to online security firm ActiveFence.

Some members offer a free sample of images, while dangling the carrot of thousands more should fellow perverts be willing to pay the right price.

One predatorial post from February this year states: 'Hi all, I'm sharing some of my best AI generated cp [child porn] pics here for you all to enjoy.

'Comparing to most others I've seen here, I think these are quite good, good enough to maybe convince one that they are real images of real children, but these are all fakes, no children involved.'

Child safety experts say that although the pornographic material may not show images of real children, it normalizes child abuse, while the content is created via the artificial manipulation of genuine underage pictures.

Pedophiles share child sex abuse images they have created using uncensored chatbots

Online security firm ActiveFence says the volume of child sex abuse material shared on one dark web forum jumped by 172 percent in the first quarter of 2023

They share tips on how to dodge safeguards that are designed to prevent abuse

Techniques include using certain words or phrases that won't be blocked by the chatbot

One guide shares a list of specific prompts that have been trialed and tested to produce child porn. The keywords have been redacted by online security firm ActiveFence

In these instances, chatbots are 'retrained' by feeding them with imagery of children's body parts, for example, that can then be used to construct 'fake' child porn.

Forum members openly appeal for 'tips on finding CP trained models' and the proliferation of such nefarious knowledge has helped drive the spike in content.

A poll of 3,000 members on one pedophile group found that around 80 percent had or planned to use chatbots to create child porn.

Around a fifth said they would give it a try after reading tips shared on the thread on how to go about it.

One method, disclosed in a PDF titled 'Pedophile's Guide to [redacted platform name]' tells users how to use particular words and phrases that allow them to manipulate certain models.

The guide, discovered by ActiveFence, provides predators with a 'magic word' that will generate '"our kinda stuff" without it getting censored'.

It adds: 'Oddly, "children" seems to get censored, and "girl" sometimes produces adults[Redacted word] seems to work fine.'

READ MORE: What is ChatGPT? Everything you need to know about the new AI chatbot that garnered more than one million users in its first WEEK thanks to its eerily human-like responses... Advertisement

Closing Pandora's box

There is no suggestion that the chatbot model produced by Meta has been used to create child porn.

But child-safety experts said many appear to rely on the open-source tool Stable Diffusion, run by Stability AI, which can be run without restrictions.

The model's license tells users not to use it 'to exploit or harm minors in any way', but its safeguards have been found to be easily bypassed.

Stability AI has previously said it 'prohibits any misuse for illegal or immoral purposes across our platforms, and our policies are clear that this includes CSAM (child sexual abuse material)'.

But what is legal or illegal in this realm is unchartered territory. Justice Department officials have said that creating child abuse images that depict children who don't exist still violates federal laws, although no one is believed to have been charged for such an offense.

It is true that even closed-source chatbots could be manipulated to produce harmful content, including child porn.

But Guy Paltieli, senior child safety researcher at ActiveFence, says 'the vast majority' of CSAM is produced using uncensored models.

He has, however, been encouraged that the creators of some of these tools have since improved their codes to make it harder for them to be manipulated by sexual predators.

'I don't think the problem is the open-source models themselves, it is about how to train them to prevent it,' he adds.

His concern appears to be shared by US senators Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) and Josh Hawley (R-Mo.), who earlier this month asked Meta what steps it was taking to prevent 'wrongdoing and harms' arising from its open-source AI.

Big tech has opened its AI-generated Pandora's box, but can it be closed?
Current and former U.S. service members tell DailyMail.com that Republicans' proposed amendments in next year's defense spending bill may not be comprehensive enough to undo the 'serious harassment' they endured by the Biden administration's strict COVID-19 vaccine mandate.

Over 8,000 service members - many who sought religious exemptions - were fired for refusing to comply with the Pentagon's COVID-19 vaccine mandate enacted in August 2021. Following outrage, the Fiscal Year (FY) 2023 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) terminated the mandate, but it did not reinstate service members who were fired for not receiving the shot nor provide any other compensation.

Now, new amendments by Rep. Jim Banks, R-Ind., that passed out of the House Armed Services Committee last week would 'offer redress' to service members who were 'unjustly discharged' by requiring the Pentagon to set up a reinstatement process and ensuring no negative retaliation.

However, current and former troops are saying that the amendments that would go into the FY 2024 NDAA are not strong enough to undo the 'serious harassment' they endured over the last two years.

The Pentagon, with the support of military leaders and U.S. President Joe Biden, mandated COVID-19 vaccination for all military service members

'Im happy Congress is pushing to reinstitute service members back into the force, however it is not enough,' said John Frankman, a U.S. Army Captain, who voluntarily left the Army on July 1 due to negative career repercussions for refusing the vaccine.

Frankman, who was in the Special Forces as part of the Green Berets, said that the 'missed career opportunities' he endured over the last two years could never be undone by any action of Congress.

He said even before the mandate, 10 out of the 12 of his team opted not to receive the vaccine when he served as a Special Forces Detachment Commander and a key training was taken away from them.

When the vaccine mandate went into effect in August 2021, he submitted a religious accommodation request, but the Army did not respond for over a full year.

During that time, he and other unvaccinated special forces could not deploy, go on temporary duty assignment (TDY), or permanent change of station (PCS).

'Because of this, my team time was shortened and I could not attend any career enhancing schools,' he detailed to DailyMail.com. He called his 'biggest setback' not being able to go to grad school and teach cadets philosophy and ethics courses, part of a larger broadening assignment he was accepted for.

'Even when the mandate was rescinded, I called USMA and Human Resource Command, but was unable to make up these losses,' he continued.

'These measures are good, but not enough. They only cover those who were kicked out, but dont discuss the hardship faced by those who never left but were intentionally kept in limbo,' Frankman told DailyMail.com.

'The amendments wont make up for the lost career opportunities' that many troops endured, including not being able to deploy or get necessary training to rise in the military's ranks.

'They also will not make up for the negative stigma that many in the military, especially their leadership, may have for them for not complying to a rule they so vehemently pushed,' he continued.

'It is also not a strong enough incentive to bring folks back in after having been separated. Many have faced some serious harassment.'

Another fired service member told DailyMail.com that 'accountability is necessary to restore trust.'

'Until trust is restored military readiness will continue to bleed and decay,' he went on.

In addition, service members have told DailyMail.com that the military is making it extremely difficult for fired troops to re-apply through the normal process to get back their former positions due to a two-year delay in changing their discharge status from 'general' to 'honorable' in order to begin the process.

Banks' office says their amendments require the secretary of defense to prioritize vaccine refusers' request to have their discharge statuses changed, so that the wait period will be significantly decreased.

Active-duty Coast Guard Lt. Chad Coppin - who is currently stationed in Juneau, Alaska - said that he is especially concerned about the USCG's fate.

'Unfortunate that USCG, Title 14 is not considered a 'covered armed force' which we should be. Rep. Banks should know that the USCG should absolutely be covered in these efforts. We were wronged just as the DoD services were, to leave the USCG out of this would be a slap in the face to us all.'

Coppin was almost kicked out of the military, but after the NDAA was signed he was able to remain on active-duty.

Banks, who chairs the House Subcommittee on Military Personnel, praised the passage of the series of amendments last week that will offer 'redress' for those 'unjustly discharged.'

A spokesperson for Banks' office said the USCG will be included in the final version of the bill through a floor amendment after it is approved by the House Rules Committee.

Because the Transportation and Infrastructure and Homeland Security Committees have jurisdiction over the Coast Guard - which is a branch under the Department of Homeland Security, not the Pentagon - the Armed Services Committee would have needed to obtain waivers to include the branch during the markup process.

Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin enacted a sweeping COVID vaccine mandate in August 2021

Staff Sgt. Travis Snyder, left, receives the first dose of the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine

Another former Coast Guardsman Christopher Collins, who served for 11.5 years before also being discharged last November, told DailyMail.com that the amendments are a 'bare minimum.'

'Ignoring the fact that the USCG is not even covered under this, and by all accounts received the most abuse during the COVID ordeal, it does nothing to require the structural change needed to prevent this from happening again,' Collins said.

'I was personally given a 30 day notice of my discharge, robbed of leave days, not given a chance to do any transition training, and discharged while still on parental leave, with pending medical issues that have made finding work nearly impossible.'

First Liberty Institute, which is representing a group of Navy SEALs at the 5th Circuit Court of Appeals - the only case that is still alive in litigation since the 2023 NDAA became law - says that Congress' efforts to remedy the issues sparked by the Biden administration is critical.

First Liberty's Senior Counsel and Director of Military Affairs Mike Berry told DailyMail.com the NDAA amendments are 'necessary steps on the path to recovery.'

'We are grateful to Congressman Banks for his continued leadership on this issue. The DODs Covid vaccine mandate created a harmful culture of religious hostility and left deep scars that will take years to heal,' said Berry.

'These NDAA amendments are necessary steps on the path to recovery. Hopefully, the Pentagon learns that it is far more important that our military faithfully follows the Constitution than to blindly follow dubious orders.'

President Biden and Sec. Lloyd Astin shake hands at the White House

A current active-duty Army officer told DailyMail.com that another issue that Congress should look into is the fact the Pentagon never procured a 'fully-licensed' vaccine that was required by the agency in the August 2021 Sec. Lloyd Austin memo on the mandate.

He says although he's appreciative of Banks' efforts, they must be broadened.

There will not be a perfect remedy, but at the very least Congress should authorize the fired service members to have their 'discharge characterizations upgraded, their education benefits restored, and be awarded Involuntary Separation Pay and/or be retired at their grade and years of service the exited at,' the officer told DailyMail.com.

He said the fired troops have had 'their lives turned upside down and were betrayed by those charged with protecting them.'

Finally, a formal apology from their service branches would be key to be able to have trust restored, he added.

All service members spoke with DailyMail.com in their personal capacities, and do not reflect the official opinions of the Department of Defense.
Hyundai Motor is preparing to drive in the new generation Creta SUV to India soon. The Korean carmaker has been spotted testing the upcoming version of the SUV near NATRAX testing centre located in Khandwa, near Indore, in Madhya Pradesh recently. This is the first time that India's best-selling compact SUV's upcoming avatar has been spied testing on Indian roads. Hyundai had launched the current generation Creta back in 2020 during the Auto Expo. The SUV made its India debut in 2016. The launch of the new Creta SUV is expected to take place next year. When launched, it will renew rivalry with the likes of Kia Seltos and Maruti Suzuki Grand Viatra among others.

The video of the upcoming Hyundai Creta SUV testing near NATRAX was shared on social media. The videos shows the SUV wrapped completely in black camouflage with only hints of its headlight and alloy wheels visible to the naked eye. From the spy shots, it is clear that the Creta will get vertical LED headlight cluster, something the Korean auto giant uses for the Palisade SUV sold in global markets.

The second most prominent change visible in the spy shot are the alloy wheels. The wheels on the test mule wears a new design, similar to what the Alcazar SUV gets in India. In terms of size, it appears the wheels measure about 18 inches. However, it remains to be seen if the same design of the alloys is retained for the final production version. Among other things visible in the spy shot is the roofline of the upcoming Creta version. There seems no major change there apart from the camera on the ORVMs, hinting that the carmaker will introduce 360 degree view as a feature in the SUV.

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The rear section of the SUV is heavily camouflaged, giving away very little about the changes it will offer. However, it is expected that Hyundai will add a redesigned bumper, a new taillight cluster and possibly an LED light bar across the width as some of the key updates.

Hyundai Creta facelift SUV is expected to come with a new front face. Besides the updated headlight units, the SUV will wear a new-look grille. It is likely to get Hyundai's signature parametric design.

Expect changes inside the cabin of the upcoming Creta as well. The dashboard, the digital displays and the upholstery are likely to undergo heavy to moderate updates. One of the key features expected to be introduced in the new Creta is the Advanced Driver Assistant System (ADAS) technology. It is likely to be the same ADAS tech that Kia will introduce in the upcoming Seltos facelift SUV.

Under the hood, Hyundai is likely to offer the new Creta with the new 1.5-litre petrol and a 1.5-litre diesel engine that were updated to meet the new emission norms recently. Hyundai may also introduce the 1.5-litre turbo petrol engine that has been introduced for the first time in Verna. Besides manual, DCT and automatic options, the transmission job is also likely to be handled by the iMT gearbox.

First Published Date:
Now, after a recent spike in interest in UFOs, McGuire's son has come forward to express regret at laughing at his father's claims

The Wyoming farmer claimed he was visited by 'Star People' who mutilated his cattle, making him a pariah as he was accused of being crazy

In 1981, Patrick McGuire became the town laughingstock after he appeared on national TV to recall his experience with alien abductions

More than four decades ago, Patrick McGuire became the laughingstock of his small Wyoming town when he appeared on national TV to claim he'd been abducted by aliens.

After being placed under hypnosis live on the air, McGuire claimed he had been visited by 'Star People' from outer space who mutilated his cattle, then warned him of an incoming apocalypse.

McGuire's claims became the subject of mockery, with his son, Daniel Riedel, writing in HuffPost this week that the farmer spiraled into alcoholism and despair after becoming obsessed by ideas of aliens and 'deep state' cover-ups.

But now, following months of blockbuster Pentagon hearings about alien visitors and renewed interest in UFO lore, Riedel admitted he 'never should have laughed' at his dad.

Patrick McGuire, pictured in 1980, was publicly ridiculed after he came forward with claims of alien abductions over four decades ago

McGuire's TV appearance came in 1981 on NBC's prime-time show 'That's Incredible', where he was placed under hypnosis by famed psychiatrist Dr. R. Leo Sprinkle.

While under a trance, the farmer recounted in harrowing detail how he came face-to-face with 'Star People' - aliens - who he claims made threats on his life.

He claimed the saga began after finding a mutilated cow on his farm, which had 'the nose off, tongues out and sex organs gone'. When a 'spaceship' landed on his Bosler, Wyoming ranch, several other cows from his herd were also beamed to the sky.

The year before, in an interview with ABC News, he also claimed to have been visited by aliens 'somewhere around 25, 30 times'. Riedel writes that a witness to some of the landings was quoted as seeing 'two or three (spacecrafts) land at separate times'.

'We stayed and watched the sun come up and we saw two of them, in daylight, hovering in two separate places,' they added.

The televised claims made him a pariah in his Wyoming town, but Riedel said his father's hypnotic confessions were far from attention-seeking.

'From the earliest points in my childhood, I was told that UFOs were nothing to make light of,' he recalled.

He says his father would warn him and his brothers that the 'Star People' could take them at any moment, a source of nightmares for the youngsters for years.

This was coupled with harrowing descriptions of '5ft hairless beings with eyes like colorless pools hovering by my bedside', details that Riedel admits are similar to the stereotypical alien look as seen in film and TV.

A high school yearbook picture was used for McGuire's funeral program after his death in 2009 aged 76

A ruined building on the farm in Bosler, Wyoming, where McGuire lived, and where he claimed 'Star People' from outer space made regular visits

Within just a few years of his fateful 15-minutes of fame, McGuire was destitute. He was a confused, sad homeless man who had, by his own son's admission, become the town outcast.

In one incident recounted by Riedel, McGuire's decline saw him caught rifling through a classmate's garbage. When the classmate revealed the embarrassing moment the next day, the school erupted with laughter - including from Riedel himself.

He said despite his newfound respect for his father's UFO inclinations, he and his brothers used to frequently mock McGuire when he would warn them about alien encounters.

'My brothers and I laughed when our father talked about the implants and their accompanying pain,' he wrote.

'We laughed when he claimed he could barely walk after what the Star People did to him. We laughed when he said that he was suing the government for the land they took from him, for destroying his life, for destroying our lives.

'We laughed. The world laughed.'

The family's remote farm is pictured in 1980. McGuire used to terrify his sons by warning that Star People could abduct them at any time - and inflict painful probes on them

The Wyoming father was seen in archival footage recounting the harrowing UFO claims that ruined his life

Decades-old footage saw McGuire detail the flying saucers he saw on his farm over two dozen times

Patrick McGuire passed away on May 14, 2009 at the age of 67 from cancer. Writing 44 years after his father's TV appearance, Riedel said the world's renewed fascination with UFOs has left him full of regret.

'I'm the one who feels ashamed,' he wrote. 'How should we address our past mockery and ridicule if it turns out that, hidden in a desert base somewhere, there are indeed crafts, cadavers and photographs of strange visitors?'

With even Barack Obama claiming he has viewed UFO footage that he 'can't explain', many could argue McGuire didn't deserve to be so publicly ridiculed.

Greater numbers of whistleblowers are coming forward with eerily similar tales of non-human made aircrafts entering airspaces and leaving their witnesses as baffled as McGuire once was.

Earlier this month, a top attorney involved in bringing UFO whistleblowers to Congress revealed to DailyMail.com that the US military had recovered a craft that could defy the laws of nature.

Daniel Sheehan says he was told the mind-boggling tale by a whistleblower who allegedly took part in an illegally-undisclosed program retrieving crashed non-human spacecraft.

They claimed the retrieved spacecraft 'distorted space time' and was 'bigger on the inside' than it appeared from the outside.
The problems that beset the William Tyrrell case from the moment the three-year-old vanished go directly to the heart of Australia's flawed foster parent system.

On one side, you have a his foster parents, a wealthy, well-educated couple who live in a $4 million home on Sydney's exclusive north shore.

And on the other are his biological parents, who fell under suspicion from police because of the problems which saw them lose custody of the little boy in the first place: substance abuse and issues with law and order.

William's parents were long-term unemployed, with a turbulent relationship that saw his mother have frequent run ins with not just the police, but with welfare authorities, particularly the Family and Community Services (FACS) department.

What the pair did have, however, was a pair of beautiful toddlers, William and his sister.

The wealthy couple had everything but children in their lives. William and his sister filled that void, and they were swept away from that world of public housing and disruption into one of beautiful homes, lavish holidays and quality schools.

At the property on a large leafy block, the foster family would say they were creating William's new bedroom, as a 'special magical place' in the missing boy's 'forever home', to which they hope he would return.

So when William vanished in a suspected abduction from his foster grandmother's home in Kendall, on the NSW mid-north coast, it would be the biological parents' Blacktown flat that police swooped upon, banging down the door and telling William's father he was a suspect in his son's disappearance.

William Tyrrell was taken from a deprived working class family and parachuted into a wealthy home where he remained until he vanished and has never been seen again

William's biological father broke down during the inquest, raging about the bad job welfare authorities had done in protecting his son

The last time William's birth mother (above) saw her son he was looking skinny and was 'clingy' and no longer calling her mother, with the foster mother wanting less contact between the toddler and his birth parents

And in those first few days, as police fumbled in the search to find William and FACS scrambled to cover-up that William was a foster child, the demonisation of his birth parents in what would become Australia's most notorious child abduction case began.

Police would later admit legislation protecting the identities of foster children hindered their investigation.

A bizarre divided inquest would follow in which the foster family were treated with kid gloves, and the birth family as second-class citizens.

Now, a full nine years since William vanished, the boot is firmly on the the other foot.

Police have told the NSW Director of Public Prosecutions that William's foster mother should face charges of covering up his death and disposing his corpse, which through her her top Sydney lawyer, Sharon Ramsden, she vehemently denies.

Through Ms Ramsden, the foster mother this week has called on authorities to urgently and 'expeditiously determine whether charges are to be laid' against her.

Child protection advocate, Allannah Smith said on Friday, two days after police leaked news of the delivery of the brief of evidence to the NSW Director of Public Prosecutions: 'Can you imagine what it would be like if the boot was on the other foot?'

The 'forever home' William's foster parents were planning for him to live in a 'magical' bedroom before he vanished, aged three in 2014

William was transported from public housing to the foster parents' leafy North Shore environment at the age of nine months, but proved a difficult child

While Ms Smith - who is the reason it is even legally possible to even publish the fact that William was a foster child when he vanished - won't comment on the foster mother, she questioned the inequities in the whole William Tyrrell case.

"When William vanished, if it hadn't become immediately obvious to police that (the biological parents) had nothing to do with his disappearance, what do you think would have happened?

'Wouldn't they have immediately taken their cameras, phones and laptops, wouldn't they have been arrested and taken into custody.

'And then at the inquest, instead of being paraded in front of the media, denied legal representation and closely cross-examined, would they have been protected from cameras, given a virtual police guard of honour in the court room and eased through evidence about drinking cups of tea?

'I don't think so. This is about the haves and have nots.

'The whole way it's been handled stinks and the only way to the bottom of it is through a parliamentary inquiry.'

Before her first two children were taken from her by FACS, William Tyrrell's birth mother had a troubled upbringing in a public housing complex nicknamed 'Smurf Village' in Sydney's North Ryde.

She had become violent, with a criminal record from when she was 18, including an assault on a policewoman she punched in the face on her 22nd birthday.

Child protection advocate Allanna Smith questions the 'haves and have nots' divide between the biological family and the wealthy foster parents who were treated with 'kid gloves'

William Tyrrell's birth father worked as an excavator in the western Sydney suburb of Granville at the time and did not drink alcohol or take drugs when he and the 20-year-old woman became a couple in 2009.

The pair began having domestic disputes and police were called to the home. William's sister was born in 2010, followed by him in June, 2011.

Meanwhile, the rich north shore couple who would become William's foster parents had become carers in the foster and adoption system then run by FACS.

The future foster mother had a commanding air and, a former associate told Daily Mail Australia, 'she had superstar status' among FACS officials.

When William and his sister's 'complicated history' made officials remove them from their birth parents' care, the north shore woman was seen as the perfect person to become mother to William and his sister.

According to William's biological grandmother, FACS 'didn't like (her son and former daughter-in-law) from the start'.

The pair were ordered to participate in a domestic violence course and to not associate with each other, but when William was eleven months old, welfare workers spotted them together at a Ryde video store.

A FACS order to remove William from the couple's care 'wasn't because (her son) was taking drugs or drinking, he wasn't' the birth grandmother later said, and she helped them hide with the boy.

William Tyrrell's birth parents (above) were the first suspects in his disappearance but quickly cleared while suspicion did not alight onto the foster parents at the time

After three months, FACS tracked them down and William was taken into foster care - and the welcoming arms of the couple on the north shore.

The birth family spent what was a a fortune to them - $4500 - on lawyers to try and retain custody of William, but it wasn't enough.

Ensconced in the couple's comfortable home, William was encouraged to call his foster parents 'mummy and daddy' and they began to agitated against contact visits with the birth parents, which the foster mum said 'disrupted William'.

''(William was) very unsettled, particularly the time immediately following contact with (his) birth parents. The unsettled behaviour after visits would last months,' the foster mother said

At first, the birth couple saw their children three times a week, but by the time of William's disappearance, that had dwindled to one hour every 7-8 weeks.

Approved by welfare authorities, and as a precursor to the foster mother's plan to adopt William and his sister, the children were being eased out of their biological family's lives.

The foster parents (above left and second left) out at a restaurant at Port Douglas in far north Queensland on Holiday a few years ago

Until January 2014, William had been calling his birth mother 'Mum', but he then stopped and on the second last visit called her his 'birth mum'.

He was forbidden to eat sweets or chocolates at his new home, and the birth mother said he looked 'skinny'.

On his last visit, the Salvation Army foster caseworker Ben Attwood warned the mother that William had a black eye from a furniture climbing accident at the foster parents' home.

The house was due for a massive renovation with a swimming pool after the fosters obtained DA approval by Ku-ring-gai Council in July 2013.



The last time the birth mother and father saw William, he was 'more affectionate than usual' and 'happy sitting on my lap and giving me a cuddle'.

Unbeknown to the birth parents, the foster parents had spoken with Mr Attwood about applying to the NSW Supreme Court to formally adopt William.

According to documents obtained by Daily Mail Australia, William's foster mother admitted that initially the boy 'had personal issues .... particularly towards me'.

'We had to deal (with) things such as William hitting me, biting me and him being basically furious' with another child in the foster parents' house.

The foster mother blamed William's violent and 'very erratic' behaviour on his birth parents, who still had access visits.

'The initial period when William first started living with (us) was very difficult. William had ... disrupted attachment issues back to his birth parents, she said.

The foster parents were once treated with kit gloves, but the foster mother is now considered a person of interest in a possible disposal of William's body after an accident

The foster mother had also applied for permission to take William out of town on multiple visits to her widowed mother's house at Kendall, on the NSW mid north coast.

The last time the birth parents saw their son was on August 21, 2014 at the the Chipmunks Playland at the Macquarie Centre in North Ryde, from 10am until midday.

He had just three weeks to live.

In the first week of September, a 'distressing' incident happened at the foster parents' home, which was only revealed after the boy vanished.

The foster father told a Port Macquarie detective on September 14, 2014 that 'only in the last week' the boy had been sitting on a stool in the kitchen, fallen off, and couldn't get back up.

'If he's fallen and he's fallen backwards, that seemed to indicate to me that he had a problem with getting back up,' the foster father said.

'But he couldn't get back up, which is something that has distressed me a bit. And I think for a boy that size and age would find that a little bit awkward... I mean if eventually I wasn't there he probably would have got himself out of it by just rolling.

'But they don't think about those sorts of things. They think 'oh, I'm in a position I can't get out of' - and 'daddy, daddy's here' and 'daddy, daddy'. So you know you help them up and he's all fine.'

William's abduction from his foster grandmother's two-storey, three-bedroom home on the morning of September 12, 2014 sparked one of the biggest manhunts in Australian history

At 4.30pm that day, police bashed on the door of William's birth parents, searched the property, and questioned the bewildered couple.

They threatened to take them into custody until his heavily pregnant mum produced ATM receipts which proved she was shopping in Blacktown at the time William vanished.

Three-and-a half years later, the inquest into William's disappearance opened at the Coroner's Court at Lidcombe in western Sydney.

Inside Court One, sitting on the left hand side of the room, was the biological family of the missing boy.

Sitting with William's birth family was activist Allanna Smith, a one-time foster child herself, who had fought FACS in the NSW Supreme Court and won the bid to lift the veil of secrecy over William's foster child status.

On the right side of the court were the wealthy foster parents with their PR company 'Insight Communications', who were running the million-dollar 'Where's William?' campaign.

Outside the building, mother-and-daughter publicists Claire and Alice Collins had been selling William merchandise in the red and blue colours of his last known outfit, his Spiderman suit.

William Tyrrell would have turned 12 years old this week, with it being revealed the day after his birthday that police believe they can charge his foster mother i relation to his disappearance

Lined up on the bar table was a bank of lawyers, with the foster parents' two lawyers, the FACS department one senior counsel, instructed by the Crown Solicitor.

A lawyer for the Salvation Army, which had co-supervised with FACS some of William's fostering, sat by two lawyers representing a neighbour and a washing machine repairman, with everyone else represented, but the birth parents.

Gerard Craddock, SC, gave off the air of a Sunday school teacher, pleasantly questioning the foster parents about how cups of tea were poured, how thick the lantana scrub was, and how steep were the fire trail was.

The aim of this preliminary week of the inquest, which will resume in August, was to provide background to William's birth and foster families, his disappearance and the massive search.

William's biological family had no representative to advise them on anything, including about protection from the glare of the media.

Non-publication orders suppressed the names of all families, foster and biological, but the latter were still filmed as they went in and out the front door .

The foster parents entered and exited via a private side door, and drove out in the back of a relative's car covered by a blanket.

When one cameraman tried to film them, he was admonished by court officials and the breach was aired in the courtroom and criticised by the coroner, Harriet Grahame.

Only on the inquest's final day was the birth mother smuggled through the entrance used by the foster parents.

After lunch on day one, Mr Craddock gently took the foster mother through her family's early acquisition of William and his sister.

We heard much about the fact William's last trip to Kendall was contingent 'on being able to get the cats into boarding', and about her mother's broken washing machine.

In his opening address, Mr Craddock, told the court William had disappeared while the foster mother and Nanna were drinking tea that was still warm or 'not too cold to drink'.

He remarked there were different ways of making or pouring tea and asked the foster mother what was hers or her mother's preferred way.

We learnt that Nanna likes her tea a bit weaker, and so it was the two were drinking, William was playing a new 'daddy tiger' game and then it all fell quiet.

At the end of day one, the foster mother came off the stand and was embraced by the foster father in court, but continued her testimony into day two.

She told the court Nanna had thought William too 'hyperactive, boisterous' in his play immediately before he vanished.

On Wednesday, the NSW Justice Department informed media the foster father's evidence would be delayed.

The decision was reversed, but he was in the witness box barely more than an hour, answering questions about riding trail bikes up at his mother-in-law's property , then reversed the decision.

The foster father, who works in sales, explained his frantic behaviour after arriving home to find William gone, and tearing off to run like a madman up and down hill without finding where his wife had already searched for the boy.

'There is method in my madness,' he said, 'I thought it was probably better for me to branch out  outside the house.'

The foster father was , which left some observers unsatisfied, and wanting to get more of an insight into him and William.

On the hearing's final day, the final two witnesses were William's biological mother and father.

William's biological mother dissolved into tears as she told how FACS had taken William from her when he was nine months old.

Mr Craddock had withdrawn as the questioner, replaced by his assistant, Tracey Stephens, whose style was sharper, and more demanding.

The birth mother said she said she had not given up on William, and had attended every bimonthly visit, requested more contact and pursued the few paths birth parents have to regain custody when their children are taken by FACS.

'I'd send emails, call the ombudsman,' she told the court.

William's foster father (above couch surfing at a friend's place) has been 'broken' by his son's disappearance, his life going off the rails on drugs

During this part of her testimony, as had other witnesses, the birth mother referred to people by name whose names were suppressed and was warned by Ms Stephens and the coroner.

'Oh sorry,' she said, and then with her hands in the air, 'I'm so confused. They all know our names. What's the big deal?'

Ms Stephens asked the birth mother about whether she had kidnapped her son.

I definitely didn't take William. If I took him I would be gone.'

The birth father took the stand, like his former partner, legally unrepresented, but clearly describing about his abnormal life since William's disappearance.

'In the end I broke down, I lost it' he said, adding 'I am still waiting to be informed' (about what happened to William).

Asked if he received information about William's whereabouts whether he would tell police, he replied, 'Most definitely'.

At William's inquest, the foster mother was shuffled through a back door, while the biological parents felt the full glare of the media

Asked him about the Salvation Army welfare workers and FACS, the birth father responded: 'When the tables were turned, they weren't the ones on my side.

'They f***ed up. The minister had a duty of care to keep him safe until he was 18.'

Outside the courtroom, Allanna Smith said she didn't believe much light had been thrown on young William.

She also believed there was an imbalance inside court one, favouring the foster parents over the birth parents.

She said the biological family was not told they could get legal aid to be legally represented at the hearing.

'It's not a matter of whose fault that is, it's a matter of justice, fairness and due process,' she said.

'The biological parents are essentially are doing it on their own.'
Famed modern artist Jackson Pollock's car crash death has been blamed on a New York cult that encouraged the alcoholic painter to hit the bottle and cheat on his wife.

The cult, also known as the Sullivanians, advocated alcohol use and sexual freedom to resolve psychological issues.

Pollock, a lifelong alcoholic, infamously died after driving and crashing his car while drunk in August 1956. He had been sober for years, but fell off the wagon after a series of bad reviews.

The painter was encouraged to seek therapy from the Upper West Side-based Sullivanians - who told him to keep on drinking, instead of encouraging him to sober up.

His introduction to the cult by friend and fellow alcoholic Clement Greenberg has been described as a turning point in the artist's demise in a new book 'The Sullivanians: Sex, Psychotherapy, and the Wild Life of an American Commune' by Alexander Stille.

The Sullivanians was led by married psychotherapists Saul Newton and Jane Pearce, and attracted free-thinking artists such as Pollock and Judy Collins.

Pollock, a lifelong alcoholic, infamously died after driving and crashing his car while drunk in August 1956 (Pictured: creating one of his famous drip paintings)

The Sullivan Institute, a cult based in the Upper West Side of Manhattan, has been accused of contributing towards Jackson Pollock's death. (Pictured: The cult is the subject of a new book by Alexander Stille).

According to author Alexander Stille, the Sullivan Institute encouraged their patients to leave their spouses, have affairs and hand over the care of their children to others.

In 1954, Jackson Pollock, a lifelong alcoholic was in a period of deep crisis after a bad review of his art by the critic Clement Greenberg.

He began drinking again after several years of sobriety and became violent and abusive towards his wife, the painter Lee Krasner, Stille wrote.

Greenberg, also a friend of Pollock and his wife, told Krasner to see an analyst and recommended Jane Pearce who ran the Sullivanian cult.

'Clem pushed her to do this because he saw that Jackson was killing her,' Pearce later said in an interview.

'Or allowing her to kill herself. It was a moment of absolute crisis' she recalled.

Krasner and Pollock began attending therapy with Ralph Klein who was entwined with the cult and was staying with its leaders Newton and Pierce.

Greenberg and Pollock, both alcoholics, were encouraged to drink to relieve anxiety and unleash creativity by Pierce, who was also a serious alcoholic.

Dr. Michael Bray (L) & Paul Sprecher (R) both fell prey to eccentric pyschotherapy cult, the Sullivanians, and left the fold; they are now suing cult which does not recognize nuclear family, for custody of their children

Pollock's introduction to the cult by friend and fellow alcoholic Clement Greenberg has been described as a turning point in the artist's demise (Pictured: Viewers look at an abstract expressionist painting by artist Jackson Pollock titled 'One: Number 31, 1950')

Accounts recall Pollock's poor behavior around this time, including shouting slurs and starting fights at downtown Manhattan bars.

'More than once, after breaking a tableful of glasses and plates, Pollock would sit conspicuously in a corner booth and play with the sharp fragments, casually making designs as his fingers dripped blood onto the tabletop,' reported one Cedar Tavern regular.

Klein never told Pollock to receive help for his drinking or not to drive drunk, according to Stille.

The therapist, in accordance with the group's philosophy about throwing off societal norms, also told him to stop repressing his emotions and act out his sexual impulses, despite being married, Stille alleges.

Pollock would say at the time: What the f**k: everybody should always do what they want to do, a friend of the artist told his biographers Steven Naifeh and Gregory Smith.

And if I want to dump Lee home and sit with the guys down at the bar, so what? he is alleged to have said.

'[The Sullivanians] gave you permission to indulge yourself in anything that made you feel good,' Barbara Rose, a close friend of Krasners, said.

'You drive and drink, dont worry about it. Lee was very angry, and she didnt want him to see [the Sullivanians], but Pollock was very happy.

'And then they said, do you like young girls? And theyre beautiful and your wife is old and shes ugly. Go after the young girl.

'They gave him permission and he was completely out of his mind in anything he wanted to do.'

Pollock began a public affair with 26-year-old Ruth Kligman, despite his wife's protestations.

On August 11 1956 Kligman brought her friend Edith Metzger to visit Pollock in the Hamptons, but he was drunk and became more so throughout the day.

He insisted on driving the pair to a concert at a friend's house in Amagansett while under the influence.

After being stopped by a concerned policeman Pollock decided to drive home but Edith did not think Pollock should be driving and insisted that they call a cab.

Kligman convinced her to get back into the car but Pollock began to speed away trying to frighten the young women.

Less than a mile from his house the Oldsmobile car skidded off the road and flipped over, crushing and killing Pollock and Metzger. Kligman was thrown out of the car but survived, and continued to serve as an artist's muse even after the death of her famous lover. .
Critics of euthanasia are sounding the alarm about Canada, Australia and the Netherlands, where assisted suicides are becoming easier to access for people who need help  not lethal injections.

The warning comes on the heels of revelations that the Netherlands euthanizes otherwise healthy people with autism, and as Australian officials debate whether to let children as young as 14 end their lives in the nation's capital.

In Canada, with the world's most permissive assisted suicide program, a quadriplegic woman has said she's considering euthanasia because it's easier to get than disability benefits.

Matt Valliere, director of the Patients' Rights Action Fund, a campaign group, said the mostly western governments that allow assisted suicides send the message that 'people with certain disabilities are better off dead.'

Rose Finlay, 33, a quadriplegic in Canada, says it's easier to get euthanasia than disability support payments

Euthanasia is legal in seven countries  Belgium, Canada, Colombia, Luxembourg, Netherlands, New Zealand and Spain  plus several states in Australia

'Every expansion of assisted suicide and euthanasia simply adds additional subsets of people with disabilities to the group of those who qualify or makes it easier, quicker, or cheaper for them to get it,' Valliere told DailyMail.com.

People who need support are shunted into a 'utilitarian death-funnel,' he added.

Euthanasia, a lethal injection administered by a doctor, is legal in seven countries  Belgium, Canada, Colombia, Luxembourg, Netherlands, New Zealand and Spain  plus several states in Australia.

Other jurisdictions, including a growing number of US states, allow doctor-assisted suicide  where patients take the drug themselves, typically crushing up and drinking a lethal dose of pills prescribed by a physician.

Irene Tuffrey-Wijne, from Britain's Kingston University

The numbers of people opting for assisted suicides has risen steadily in the countries where it's allowed.

Canada recorded more than 10,000 cases in 2021, the latest year for which official data are available, followed by the Netherlands, Belgium, and the US.

The Netherlands in 2002 became the world's first country to allow doctors to kill patients, at their request, if strict conditions were met.

Nearly 60,000 opted for the procedure between 2012 and 2021, official figures show.

The country's program came under scrutiny this week with revelations that several people with autism and intellectual disabilities had been legally euthanized in recent years because they said they could not lead normal lives.

The cases included five people younger than 30 who cited autism as either the only reason or a major contributing factor for euthanasia, stretching the limits of what the law originally intended.

Irene Tuffrey-Wijne, from Britain's Kingston University, and her colleagues reviewed Dutch files on euthanasia requests from people with autism or with lifelong mental impairments and published their findings in the journal BJPsych Open.

Many of the patients cited different combinations of mental problems, physical ailments, diseases or aging as reasons for seeking euthanasia.

Some said they were lonely, in great pain, or felt isolated.

'There's no doubt in my mind these people were suffering,' Tuffrey-Wijne said. 'But is society really okay with sending this message, that there's no other way to help them, and it's just better to be dead?'

Rose Finlay's social media post has revived concerns about how Canada's trajectory into a euthanasia free-for-all

Lily Thai, a 23-year-old suffering from a rare autoimmune condition, ended her life last month with a lethal injection in Australia

Meanwhile in Australia, new legislation could allow for children as young as 14 to receive voluntary assisted dying in the region that includes Canberra, the country's capital.

The area's Human Rights Minister, Tara Cheyne, who backs the plan, says children should have the same choices as adults in how they end their life.

'Young people under the age of 18 can also experience intolerable end-of-life suffering through terminal illnesses,' said Cheyne.

Poll Should doctor-assisted suicide be available where you live? Yes No Not sure Should doctor-assisted suicide be available where you live? Yes 4255 votes

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The country has in recent days been gripped by the case of Lily Thai, a 23-year-old suffering from a rare autoimmune condition who ended her life last month with a lethal injection.

Since the age of 17, Lily's debilitating illnesses had affected her quality of life, leaving her bedridden and unable to move.

'It's gotten to the place that I've lost control of everything else in my life,' she told the Adelaide Advertiser before getting the fatal jab.

'I've been reliant on my dad as a caregiver to do everything for me, even the most intimate things.'

Canada has been gripped by its own homegrown case.

A quadriplegic woman from Ontario has slammed her government, saying it would be faster for her to be euthanized than for the state to provide her with disability support services.

The mother-of-two, Rose Finlay, 33, shared a video on TikTok explaining her decision and accusing health chiefs of failing to deliver for the province's disabled people.

Her spinal cord was damaged when she was 17.

She used to support herself and her family, but increasingly frequent illnesses have left her unable to work.

Matt Valliere (left), executive director of the Patients Rights Action Fund, and Alex Schadenberg, director of the Euthanasia Prevention Coalition, say procedures are out of control

Canada is on track to record some 13,500 doctor-assisted suicides in 2022

In her widely shared post, she says she fells like 'absolute crap' and that her kidney pain, fever, chills, headaches, muscle spasms, and nausea are getting worse.

Red tape means it can take as long as eight months to get the disability support money she needs.

That, she says, is longer than the 90 days it takes to qualify for the country's medical assistance in dying (MAiD) scheme.

'There is a huge and detrimental discrepancy that exists in the supports that are available to disabled Ontarians,' Finlay said in the video.

In a more recent Instagram post, she says she hasn't yet decided whether to end her life.

She calls for 'more people to help create change for disabled Canadians by holding our politicians accountable for fixing the broken system.'

Alex Schadenberg, head of Canada's Euthanasia Prevention Coalition, a campaign group, called it a case of 'abandonment.'

'She can die by MAiD in 90 days, but she is forced to live in complete poverty for six to eight months as she waits for approval for disability benefits,' Schadenberg told DailyMail.com.

Many Canadians support euthanasia and the campaign group, Dying With Dignity, says procedures are 'driven by compassion, an end to suffering and discrimination and desire for personal autonomy.'

Critics say the country's 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.

The country is on track to record some 13,500 state-sanctioned suicides in 2022, a 34 percent rise on the 10,064 in 2021, according to Schadenberg's analysis of official data.

Canada's politicians are currently weighing whether to expand access to MAiD to include children and the mentally ill.

Canadians are largely behind euthanasia policy, polls show. A survey released in May showed that more than a quarter of voters said the poor and homeless should be allowed to end their lives with MAiD.

'As soon as it is legalized there are always people who are experiencing some form of suffering who will then argue that euthanasia should also apply to them,' Schadenberg said.

'This is not about a slippery slope argument, but it is a logical extension of the law.'

Valliere echoed his concerns.

'Vulnerable, disabled, economically disadvantaged people and minorities are being driven to opt for death because medical suicide has become the lesser of the healthcare evils to which they have access,' he said.
The owners of one of Londons best known and most historic theatres are suing builders for 200,000 after the ceiling dramatically collapsed during a show and 1,000 people had to be evacuated.

The case revolves around the Piccadilly Theatre in Londons West End, where several audience members were injured when the ceiling partially collapsed during building works.

The accident happened during a performance of the classic Arthur Miller play Death of a Salesman - when dripping water made a large part of the ceiling over the Grand Circle fall down.

The entire audience of over 1,000 people were evacuated from the theatre in Denman Street just off Shaftesbury Avenue and four people were taken to hospital in the incident four years ago.

The play starred Wendell Pierce, who shot to fame as Detective Bunk Moreland in The Wire and later played Meghan Markle's on-screen father as Robert Zane in legal drama, Suits.

Part of the ceiling that came down at the Piccadilly Theatre, London, could be seen (above) during a production of Death of A Salesman

The auditorium had to be emptied sending the crowd rushing outside the Piccadilly Theatre (pictured) after it was evacuated when part of the roof collapsed

Now owners Ambassadors Theatre Group are suing main contractor Rise Contracts, structural engineer Alan Conisbee & Associates, and project manager Plann, accusing them of negligence leading to the accident

Pierce, who played Willy Loman in the show, apologised later that evening to those who had been forced to leave the performance as they huddled outside in the street.

READ MORE: Several audience members are injured as section of auditorium ceiling collapses during performance Death of a Salesman at Londons Piccadilly Theatre Advertisement

The theatre, built in the 1920s, has featured appearances by everyone from Henry Fonda to The Spice GIrls after it was chosen as the location for the world premiere of the Spice Girl musical Viva Forever.

Now owners Ambassadors Theatre Group are suing main contractor Rise Contracts, structural engineer Alan Conisbee & Associates, and project manager Plann, accusing them of negligence leading to the accident.

They were carrying out a scheme to replace glass panels in the main auditorium roof, and on the morning of 6 November 2019 water was seen to be dripping through the theatre ceiling in various places, a High Court claim says.

Rise and the structural engineers cleared up the water with a wet-vac and a bucket, and capped a vent pipe to stop the flow of water, the claim says. The bucket was taken away at lunchtime and the ceiling collapsed at about 8pm, throwing wet plasterboard, broken glass and a steel reinforcing bar onto the floor below.

Investigations showed that numerous glass blocks in the roof lights above had been broken by temporary fixings used during formwork for the construction of a third plinth, it is claimed.

Water dripped through the penetrations, making the ceiling wet, heavier, and weakened, so that it fell onto the audience, the court will hear.

The Ambassadors Theatre Group accuses the companies of negligence and breach of contract by using rooftop supports which penetrated the roof lights which had been asphalted over, when it was unsafe, and then failed to prevent the collapse after discovering that water had leaked through.

Screams were heard from audience members in the Upper Circle when a chunk of the theatre's ceiling (pictured) fell onto the crowd

US actor and star of Death Of A Salesman, Wendell Pierce, apologised to audience members outside the Piccadilly Theatre after the performance was cancelled when a piece of the ceiling collapsed

Outside the 95-year-old theatre on the night of the accident, Pierce apologised to the audience and asked them to come back to see the production at a later date.

The US actor, who also starred in Selma, joked 'I did not mean for it to go like this.'

He then added: 'I would like to thank you all for one, safely evacuating and I apologise and we're glad that no one was hurt and I ask you all to come back and see our production.

'We're so honoured that you came tonight and we're so sorry that this unfortunately happened.'

The London Ambulance Service, London Fire Brigade with three fire engines as well as the Metropolitan Police were called and road closures were put in place around the theatre, Scotland Yard said.

Witness Martin George, who was sitting in the Grand Circle, said there were screams coming from the audience as part of the ceiling came crashing down.

The then 41-year-old said: 'About 10 minutes into the performance you could hear this slight dripping sound in the [Grand] circle and people were looking around, wondering what was happening, but the play carried on.

'As the minutes passed, the dripping became more frequent and it sounded like more water was coming through the ceiling, causing a few people to get up and move.

Actor Wendell Pierce bowing at the curtain call during the press night performance of Death Of A Salesman, which passed off without the ceiling collapsing

Emergency services rushed to the scene in central London to close off the road outside the popular venue

'The sound eventually got so loud that we stood up and started to leave, as we were wondering what was going to happen.

'Then, as we stood up, this huge chunk of ceiling, about three to four metres across, crashed down.

'There were people screaming at that point and everyone got up and streamed down the stairs.'

The defendants have yet to respond to the claim.
Home Secretary Suella Braverman has been dumped by one of her closest political allies for claiming child sex grooming gangs are 'predominantly' made up of British-Pakistani men.

Steve Baker, the Northern Ireland Minister who ran Ms Braverman's Tory leadership campaign last year, is understood to have withdrawn his personal support for her in the wake of her much-criticised remarks in April.

Allies of Mr Baker, a senior eurosceptic, said he was unhappy with the attack on a specific minority ethnic group when official figures say white Brits are responsible in the majority of cases of child abuse.

Ms Braverman, seen as a leading right-wing candidate to become the next Tory leader, was speaking in the wake of cases in towns like Rotherham and Rochdale that were downplayed by local officials afraid of being branded racist.

She was widely criticised by Labour and Tory moderates including Baroness Warsi at the time. But Mr Baker would be first figure from right of the party to indicate disquiet over the outburst, which the Home Secretary has since defended.

One ally of the Northern Ireland Minister told MailOnline: 'If she had said this is a problem predominantly carried out by white men in their own homes but that in some areas it was carried out by Pakistani men and covered up for political reasons that would have been fine.

'But she has heaped shame upon innocent men. It is not that she is stupid but that she is unwise.'

Steve Baker, the Northern Ireland Minister who ran Ms Braverman's Tory leadership campaign last year, is understood to have severed political ties with her in the wake of her much-criticised remarks in April.

Allies of Mr Baker, a senior eurosceptic from the right of the party, said he was furious at the remarks she made to Sky News about 'vulnerable white English girls being pursued and raped and drugged and harmed by gangs of British Pakistani men'.

Mr Baker became a senior figure in Mrs Braverman's leadership campaign after his own tilt at the Tory leadership fell at an early hurdle last year. She was eliminated after the second round of voting and they both then endorsed Liz Truss.

However this did not stop them from being handed jobs by Rishi Sunak when he became leader following Ms Truss's chaotic 49-day premiership. Mr Baker was brought in to work with Chris Heaton-Harris - a fellow hardline Brexiteer - to solve issues in Northern Ireland stemming from the decision to leave the EU.

Ms Braverman was made Home Secretary by Ms Truss last summer but later resigned for sharing secret documents with an ally. When Mr Sunak took over six days later he reinstated her, in the interest of party unity.

In April she used a television appearance to promote a crime crackdown to describe a 'systematic and institutional failure' to protect children from sexual abuse as 'one of the biggest scandals in recent years in our history'.

'What we've seen is a practice whereby vulnerable white English girls sometimes in care, sometimes who are in challenging circumstances, being pursued and raped and drugged and harmed by gangs of British-Pakistani men who have worked in child abuse rings or networks,' she told Sky News' Sophy Ridge on Sunday show.

'We have seen institutions and state agencies, whether it is social workers, teachers, the police, turn a blind eye to these signs of abuse out of political correctness, out of fear of being called racist, out of fear of being called bigoted.'

Mrs Braverman was challenged about a Home Office study published in 2020 that found child sexual abuse gangs are most commonly made up of white men.

Mr Baker (background) became a senior figure in Mrs Braverman's leadership campaign after his own tilt at the Tory leadership fell at an early hurdle last year. But she was eliminated after the second round of voting and they both then endorsed Liz Truss.

But the Home Secretary pointed to other reports, including into the Rotherham abuse scandal, as being 'unflinching in their assessment of the problem'.

'There have been several reports since about the predominance of certain ethnic groups  and I say British Pakistani males  who hold cultural values totally at odds with British values.

'Who see women in a demeaned and illegitimate way and who pursue an outdated and frankly heinous approach in terms of the way they behave.

'We've got to stamp that out with criminal law and proper safeguarding and we are only going to do that if, as a society, we face up to the facts and the truth of what's actually going on.'

At least 1,400 girls were left to be abused by Asian men in Rotherham because the authorities were too scared to admit there was a race issue, a 2014 report found.

Over a 16-year period, children as young as 11 were sexually exploited by gangs of men  most of them of Pakistani origin.

But police and council officials suppressed evidence of the crimes because they feared being labelled racist, Professor Alexis Jay found.

But a 2020 Home Office review found offenders come from diverse backgrounds. It said: 'Research has found that group-based child sexual exploitation (CSE) offenders are most commonly white.

'Some studies suggest an over-representation of Black and Asian offenders relative to the demographics of national populations.

'However, it is not possible to conclude that this is representative of all group-based CSE offending.

A Home Office spokeswoman said: 'The Home Secretary has been clear that all despicable child abusers must be brought to justice. And she will not shy away from telling hard truths, particularly when it comes to the grooming of young women and girls in Britain's towns who have been failed by authorities over decades.

'As the Home Secretary has said, the vast majority of British-Pakistanis are law-abiding, upstanding citizens but independent reports were unequivocal that in towns like Rochdale, Rotherham and Telford cultural sensitivities have meant thousands of young girls were abused under the noses of councils and police.

'That's why we have announced a raft of measures, including a new police taskforce and mandatory reporting, to ensure this horrific scandal can never happen again, and bring members of grooming gangs to justice for the victims.'
Whether or not you think him a coward, the not guilty verdict in Scot Peterson's case has made one thing clear: America has fully given up on protecting our children from school shooters.

Just look to police and armed security guards, no longer expected, as inherent in their very job description, to put their own lives at risk in order to save young innocents.

What must our nation look like to the world?

In Petersons case, we have a 64, 250-pound former sheriffs deputy, with over three decades in law enforcement, who stood by and did nothing as a lone gunman shot up Parkland's Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in 2018.

Fourteen students and three adults were killed. Seventeen more were injured. Video shows Peterson hiding for 40 minutes, long after the shooter was apprehended.

On Thursday, a jury found him not guilty of all charges, including seven counts of child neglect.

I got my life back, Peterson said after the verdict.

Tone deaf doesnt begin to cover that statement. Tell that to the destroyed parents who sat in court for two weeks.

Whether or not you think him a coward, the not guilty verdict in Scot Peterson's case has made one thing clear: America has fully given up on protecting our children from school shooters. (Pictured: Peterson found 'not guilty' last week).

Here we have a 64, 250-pound former sheriffs deputy, with over three decades in law enforcement, who stood by and did nothing as a lone gunman shot up Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in 2018. What must our nation look like to the world?

But Peterson went on and on about how difficult this has been  for him.

An emotional roller coaster, he called it, filled with endless nights.

At one point during Peterson's impromptu celebratory press conference  his lawyer strangely weepy and showboaty  his supporters broke out in cheers. The father of one victim, attempting to speak to the media down the hall, was drowned out.

Such lack of decorum and humility makes it all the more conceivable that Peterson also possessed a critical lack of professionalism.

Incredibly, just three months after the shooting, Peterson insisted to NBCs Today show that his failure to act wasnt out of cowardice or fear.

It wasnt because of some, Oh, I dont want to go into that building, oh, I dont want to face somebody in there, he said. It wasnt like that at all.

Really? What else could it have been, then? When your very job is to use the loaded gun strapped to your body for an event such as this  why else are you on a high school campus with the title school security officer  what stopped you?

This is the key question.

At trial, Peterson said he didn't enter the school building because he couldn't tell exactly where the gunshots were coming from.

Though in a recorded 911 call, Peterson was also heard telling law enforcement not to approach and to 'stay at least 500ft away'.

And remember Uvalde? An army of police responded to an active shooter at Texass Robb Elementary last year, then were recorded on video strolling up and down hallways, using hand sanitizer, patting each other on the back, checking their phones as small children were slaughtered, as others hid under dead bodies, as desperate parents literally fought cops  unsuccessfully  to get inside.

Those officers had automatic rifles, bulletproof vests and shields. They were vastly more protected than those little children. Yet they did nothing.

And remember Uvalde? An army of police responded to an active shooter at Texass Robb Elementary last year, then were recorded strolling up and down hallways, using hand sanitizer, patting each other on the back, checking their phones as small children were slaughtered.

Eleven-year-old Miah Cerrillo, who covered herself in a dead classmates blood to play dead, said it felt like three hours before the police responded. It was actually 77 minutes.

Nineteen fourth-graders and two teachers died.

Cerrillo later cried in an interview with CNN. 'Why didnt [the police] come in?' she asked. 'Why didnt they save us?

An entire nation asked the same thing.

Over one year later, what are the consequences facing these nearly 400 members of Texas law enforcement? Almost nothing.

The school police chief, Pete Arredondo, was fired. Yet he had the temerity to appeal his dishonorable discharge and won. His cowardice, in effect, stricken from the record, so he wouldn't have trouble landing another job.

God forbid his life should be further inconvenienced.

A handful of other officers were dismissed or resigned. And the Texas Department of Public Safety has closed its investigation, keeping much of it hidden from public view.

A Department of Justice investigation is ongoing  for all the good that will do.

Arredondo, like Peterson, maintained it wasnt cowardice that kept him from moving in on the shooter. He told investigators that his strategy was to contain the gunman in the classroom.

I know this is horrible, Arredondo said earlier this year, and I know its [what] our training tells us to do, but  we have him contained. Theres probably going to be some deceased in there, but we dont need any more from out here.

Yet that is the exact opposite of what first responders are trained to do.

Eleven-year-old Miah Cerrillo, who covered herself in a dead classmates blood to play dead, later cried in an interview with CNN. 'Why didnt they save us?' she asked. An entire nation asked the same thing. (Pictured: Uvalde cop checks his phone).

They are told, per active shooter protocols, to place themselves in harms way and display uncommon acts of courage to save the innocent.

We cant even do that anymore.

What has become of bravery, sacrifice, of higher callings?

Weve gone from a nation of uncommon valor  those brave firefighters who climbed the World Trade Center towers to their certain deaths  to crouching in corners while little children suffer and die.

Sandy Hook should have prepared us for this. Not even the shooting deaths of 20 six and seven-year-olds were enough to force Congress, bought and paid for by the gun lobby, to act.

First graders, said then-President Barack Obama four years after the attack at a 2016 press conference, still visibly upset. Every time I think about those kids, it gets me mad All of us need to demand that Congress be brave enough to stand up We need the wide majority of responsible gun owners, who grieve with us every time this happens and feel like your views are not being properly represented, to join with us to demand something better.

The NRA, on the ropes as never before, came up with a rejoinder: The only thing that stops a bad guy with a gun is a good guy with a gun.

Look how thats turned out.

Four hundred guys with guns couldnt  wouldnt  stop the Uvalde killer.

If were going to cede gun control and the safety of our children, can we at least hold cowards to account?

How weak we have become. There's more outrage in the media over pronouns and beer endorsements than school shooters and assault weapons.

The Peterson case is a metaphor for a very sick America circa now: One big shrug.

Weve gone from a nation of uncommon valor  those brave firefighters who climbed the World Trade Center towers to their certain deaths  to crouching in corners while little children suffer and die. (Pictured: Gunman stalks hallway in Uvalde).

The FBI put active shooter protocols in place after Sandy Hook, but large swaths of American law enforcement seem to take these as light suggestions rather than emergency actions, eventualities to train for constantly rather than be taken by surprise.

The trial of Scot Peterson was a first in American criminal justice.

Unless we have a true reckoning, it wont be the last.

Cowardice, legislatively and practically, is apolitical. So is trust in those sworn to protect and defend.

As Broward County state prosecutor Harold Pryor said after the Peterson verdict: Its not political to expect someone to do their job.
Ron DeSantis's campaign has been accused of homophobia after it tweeted a video highlighting Donald Trump's support of the LGBTQ community, and contrasted it with a bizarre montage of DeSantis's policies.

The clip shows Trump promising to protect LGBTQ citizens, saying Caitlyn Jenner could use whichever bathroom she chose inside Trump Tower, and welcoming trans contestants on Miss Universe.

It was broadcast on the same day both men were in Philadelphia for a Moms for Liberty gathering - which saw one Trump supporter described his 44-year-old rival as a Trump 'knock off'.

The DeSantis advert, after footage of Trump, then cuts to a montage of DeSantis striding in a 'manly' fashion across the screen, to a thumping, bass-heavy soundtrack.

Headlines are flashed across the screen detailing how DeSantis signed the 'most extreme slate of anti-trans laws in modern history', outlawed a drag show in a school, and forced the cancellation of a Pride show.

Donald Trump is seen in the clip at the Republican National Convention in July 2016, referencing the horror of the Pulse nightclub shooting the previous month and promising to protect the LGBTQ population

Trump is also seen greeting Caitlyn Jenner, and saying she could use whichever bathroom she chose at Trump Tower

A pro-Trump drag queen dressed as 'Lady MAGA' is seen voicing her support for the then-candidate

Clips of a smiling DeSantis are interspersed with images of Christian Bale in American Psycho, references to The Wolf of Wall Street, and images of Brad Pitt in the film Troy.

The video comes as DeSantis's polling remains stubbornly low, with Trump significantly ahead among primary voters.

A YouGov poll for The Economist carried out from June 24-27 gave Trump a 27 point lead over the Florida governor.

Trump was at 52 percent, and DeSantis at 25 percent.

On Friday, Trump and DeSantis were both in Philadelphia, attempting to outflank each other on the right.

Trump told the crowd at the Moms for Liberty group that he would 'eliminate all diversity, equity and inclusion programs across the entire federal government.'

DeSantis vowed to enact at a federal level his Florida policies on LGBTQ discussions in schools and bathrooms.

'What we've seen across this country in recent years has awakened the most powerful political force in this country: mama bears,' he told the crowd of hundreds, to roars of applause.

'We've done so much on these issues in Florida, and I will do all this as the next president.'

But his message still failed to resonate.

Attendee Alexis Spiegelman of Sarasota, Florida, told the New York Times that she felt DeSantis was merely a knock-off of the former Apprentice host.

'I just dont know why we would want a knockoff when we have the real, authentic Trump,' she said.

DeSantis is seen on Friday addressing the Moms for Liberty gathering in Philadelphia

DeSantis is shown in the campaign ad rejecting the support for the LGBTQ community espoused by Trump

The video showed DeSantis signing anti-trans laws

The clip promoted DeSantis's policies against the LGBTQ community

Alexis Spiegelman, who leads the Moms for Liberty chapter in Sarasota, Florida, told The New York Times: 'I just don't know why we would want a knockoff when we have the real, authentic Trump.'

DeSantis's strategy of trying to position himself to the right of Trump was also questioned by Republican strategists.

'The consultants who think this kind of 'running to Trump's right' is going to be effective should be sacked,' said Sarah Longwell, CEO of conservative firm Longwell Partners.

Andrew Clark, a Republican strategist who worked on Trump's 2020 campaign, said DeSantis promoting himself as someone who will roll back LGBTQ rights was a bad electoral approach.

'Lots of issues with this video,' he tweeted.

'Chiefly, the opening line from Trump saying 'I'll do everything in my power to protect our LGBTQ citizens' as if that's a huge hit?

'Is DeSantis opposed to protecting LGBTQ citizens?

'I get the message they were going for, but damn this isn't it.'

Chadwick Moore, a contributing editor of The Spectator, said: 'This ad is a completely unnecessary, thoroughly ill-conceived slap in the face to a lot of people. Really stupid whoever approved this. Extremely dumb.'

Former Republican congressman Adam Kinzinger said: 'So Desantis thinks this is going to work? Highly doubt it.

'Outrage after outrage is the only way these guys know how to campaign.'

Greg Kelly, the flame-throwing Newsmax host, said DeSantis was wrong to bring Caitlyn Jenner into his campaign, defending her as a true Republican and someone to be respected.

'WOW! Ron DeSantis Desperately Attacking CAITLYN JENNER-What's Ron's problem?' tweeted Kelly.

'CAITLYN JENNER Stands Strong AGAINST sexualizing Kids, is FOR protecting Biological WOMEN in sports. 'Ron' is WRONG about MAGA if he thinks BUSTING on Caitlyn is cool. APOLOGIZE RON!'

And Ric Grenell, the first openly gay person to serve in a presidential cabinet, who was briefly Trump's acting Director of National Intelligence, said: 'This is undeniably homophobic.'
The man, 19, driving the silver Honda died later in hospital

Car carrying two teens slams into tree in Perth, killing one

A devastated mother has taken the saddest trip of her life from New Zealand to Australia to collect her son's body after he died in a horrific car crash.

Her 19-year-old son was killed when the silver Honda Accord he was driving veered off Scarborough Beach Road, in Perth, and slammed into a tree just after midnight on Saturday.

He sustained critical injuries and later died in hospital.

The passenger, also 19, was also taken to Royal Perth Hospital with serious leg injuries.

The 19-year-old driver of this silver Honda Accord died after the car veered off Scarborough Beach Road in Perth and slammed into a tree

In an unusual scene, a female passerby stopped to comfort the injured passenger, while paramedics treated him, as he lay 'in agony' on the grass beside the wreck

The two victims' name have not yet been released.

The impact of the crash was so violent that the car's motor was forced through the engine bay and into the passenger compartment, 9News reported.

WA Police Inspector Vic Hussey said the accident scene was 'very very confronting', with the entire front of the Honda horrifically mangled.

'The vehicle's in a really really bad state and it was pretty hard for us to work out what sort of car it was when we arrived,' he said.

Both teens in the car had to be cut free by emergency crews.

In an unusual scene, a female passerby stopped to comfort the injured passenger, while paramedics treated him, as he lay 'in agony' on the grass beside the wreck.

Witness Oscar Poppelwell told 9news there were no sound of screeching tires or braking before the impact.

He said the car went 'airborne' after mounting the kerb, then it struck the tree.

Mr Poppelwell also said there were three bangs from the impact, followed by people nearby rushing to the stricken vehicle.

Emergency services crews had to cut both young men out of the wreckage of the Honda

WA police's Major Crash Investigation Section are seeking any information from the public, including dash cam or mobile phone video, as they investigate how the crash occurred.

'About 12.05am [on Saturday 1 July], a silver Honda Accord sedan was travelling west along Scarborough Beach Road when near Abbett Road, the sedan left the road and struck a tree, a police statement read.

'The 19-year-old male driver sustained critical injuries and was conveyed by ambulance to hospital where he later died.

'The male passenger, also 19, sustained serious leg injuries and was also conveyed to hospital.'
Young thieves broke in and stole their car in broad daylight

Brisbane family were the targets of thieves twice in a week

A family who had their car stolen in broad daylight following a break-in have been targeted by thieves just three days later - as a youth crime crisis grips Queensland.

Tom Miers and his family, who live in the Brisbane suburb of Hawthorne, became the target of hooded thieves for a second time in a single week.

Thieves broke into their house through a side door and took their car keys while Mr Miers, his wife and their children were at home during the day on Wednesday.

They then went to the garage, started up their vehicle and smashed through the garage door as they reversed the car out of the driveway and took off.

The family's home was hit again three days later, with a group of brazen thieves breaking into the garage on Saturday night.

Tom Miers and his wife (pictured) have had their Hawthorne home broken into twice in a single week by young thieves

Mr Miers was alerted by their presence after his car's alarm went off. But by the time he got to his garage, he saw the thieves flee the scene.

'We saw them running down the street, just across the road,' he told 9News.

When police arrived at his home with dogs, they revealed to Mr Miers that this was the 'seventh or eighth' break-and-enter they had attended that night.

Despite making two arrests following the car theft, police had told the Brisbane father that the thieves would likely return to his home.

'The police warned us they'd try and come back because they've got your house keys, they'll have another go,' Mr Miers said.

A group of hooded youths wearing masks were seen walking the streets near his home shortly after the break-in.

They were caught on security camera footage from the home of local resident Brent Daniel, who only lives a couple of blocks away from Mr Miers.

Mr Daniel expressed his frustration over the break-ins and theft in the Brisbane area.

'Things need to change, and they need to change from the government,' he said.

Mr Miers is considering putting up floodlights and security cameras on his home and installing bollards to his driveway to deter criminals.

Thieves broke into the Brisbane family's home, took their car keys and smashed through their garage door as they escaped with their car

Three days later, a group of masked youths broke into Mr Miers's garage again before fleeing the scene. They were captured on CCTV walking down a nearby street

It comes as statistics show Queensland's measures to dissuade youths from reoffending are failing with more than half re-offending within a year.

Annastacia Palaszczuk's state government re-introduced a youth justice reform initiative in 2016, in an attempt to tackle the surging youth crime epidemic in the state.

However, worrying results from the last two years showed that more than 50 per cent of juveniles who went through the program committed crimes within the next year.

Restorative justice is a form of sentencing where offenders are ordered to meet those who they harmed in an attempt to get them to grasp the damage their actions caused and to put them off from committing future crimes.

However, in 2021 and 2022, of the more than 3400 youths who attended 'restorative justice' reoffended within a year.

Stats show QLD's youth justice reform initiative which was reintroduced in an attempt to tackle the youth crime epidemic is failing as more than 50 per cent of participants are reoffending within a year (stock image)

The Palaszczuk Government re-introduced a youth justice reform initiative in 2016, in an attempt to tackle the surging youth crime epidemic in the state but many are reoffending or not even showing up to their ordered conference

Data also showed that more than 4450 young offenders were ordered to attend the program in the last two years but almost 1000 never showed up.

The data from Youth Justice also revealed children aged 14 to 15 years old were most likely to be ordered to do the program.

The region of far North Queensland had the highest rate of reoffending, 57 per cent, followed by southwest Queensland, 56 per cent) and southeast Queensland, 53 per cent.

Those in the youngest bracket of 10 to 15 years old had the highest rate of reoffending with 57 per cent of them going on to commit at least one crime after partaking in the program.
Oct 8, 2021; Houston, Texas, USA; MLB TV announcer Bob Costas before the game between the Houston Astros and the Chicago White Sox in game two of the 2021 ALDS at Minute Maid Park. Mandatory Credit Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports

As only he could, Rich Eisen made the transition from talking about Shohei Ohtani to Pootie Tang on Thursdays edition of The Rich Eisen Show.

And yes, while it is the 22nd anniversary of the critically acclaimed film, which was adapted from a comedy sketch that first appeared on The Chris Rock Show, Eisen brought up the 2001 film because one of Thursdays guests starred in the cult classic comedy.

That would be none other than famed broadcaster Bob Costas, who starred as himself, and in the film, did a sit-down interview with the character Pootie Tang, who is a satire of the stereotypical action heroes who appeared in old blaxploitation films.

Eisen was curious how Costas got involved with the movie, considering his previous experience came in films like BASEketball (1998) and The Paper (1994), in which he played minor roles in both. Costas explained that he received a phone call from Chris Rock, who he jokingly said was knowing of my extensive filmography, which got a few chuckles out of Eisen.

Chris Rock calls. Its Chris Rock, so, of course, I say yes, Costas explained to Eisen. The title was a little uh interesting, especially in 2001, but hey, its Chris Rock. As it turned out, it was very loosely scripted. I sat with Pootie on the set of my then-HBO show, and it framed the whole movie, the beginning scene, and the end scene. There wasnt really a script; it was just get a couple of these things. We ad-libbed almost all of it. And got all of it in two takes. In 45 minutes, we were done.

Costas said it took one take each to get those scenes down. And he ad-libbed a series of background credits that Pootie Tang had, including crocheting and pottery, to show what a well-rounded individual he was, Costas said.

When you have perfection, even [Martin] Scorcese would just say cut, Costas joked.

In the first years after the release of the film, Costsas said he could be in a jetway getting on a plane or in a diner somewhere, and someone might say, Bob, Wa-Da-Tah, my brother. Wa-Da-Tah!

And I would just have to respond, Yes, my man, [Im] gonna sine yo pitty on the runny kine,' Costas said.

As for how Rock got his number, Costas revealed that hes just one of those guys who can get any number, kind of like former President George H.W. Bush, who called Costas and approved of his opinion(s) on Barry Bonds and Hank Aaron the morning after the former broke the home run record.

And then, just to make small talk, George H.W. Bush then says, You know, Bob, Im just sick about what they did to our pal, Ted Williams. They froze his ass down there with some cryogenics down in Arizona. Im just sick about it, Bob. When a former president says that, Im trying not to laugh, Costas recalled.

Rock and Bush did not call Costas on the same day, but there were plenty of laughs to go around.

[The Rich Eisen Show]
The horrors of the battlefield are as fresh for Colonel Dr Kelvin Wright today as they were at the height of the Afghan conflict.

As a reservist Army medic, he vividly recalls his daily Chinook helicopter flights across enemy-held Helmand territory, having volunteered to risk his life to save critically injured soldiers and civilians. Their injuries, as he recalls today, were often gruesome.

But for all his distinguished front-line service over a 14-year military career, the intensive care consultant has now been defeated by a different sort of enemy  the extreme ideology of the trans lobby.

The 54-year-old, whose calmness and expertise were so respected that he ran the emergency department at Camp Bastion hospital during his second tour of duty, has now been forced to quit the job he loves after being dragged through a Kafkaesque disciplinary process.

His 'crime'? To share, without comment, a Facebook post that he considered simple common sense  but which promoted an angry backlash from one of his junior officers. The message featured a quote from women's rights campaigner Helen Joyce which read: 'If women cannot stand in a public place and say 'Men cannot be women', then we do not have women's rights at all.'

The horrors of the battlefield are as fresh for Colonel Dr Kelvin Wright (pictured) today as they were at the height of the Afghan conflict

To Dr Wright, who works as an intensive care consultant in the NHS, it was an innocuous act, pointing out the importance of freedom of speech around an issue which has become highly contentious.

But what happened next is a cautionary tale which illustrates just how much the trans lobby appears to have captured institutions like the British Army.

Despite his years of selfless service, Dr Wright found himself dragged into disciplinary proceedings after a solitary complaint snowballed. It escalated into a seven-page letter  signed by several LGBTQ+ activists and sent to top brass  objecting to Dr Wright remaining in the Army because of his 'anti-trans views' .

Yet Dr Wright was never permitted to see the letter, nor be told of the extent of the allegations it contained. The accusations, and the secrecy which still shrouds them, is, he says, a 'terrible slur on my honour'.

And, accusing the Army's leadership of a 'failure of moral courage' in neglecting to back him, he says he had no option but to walk away.

'I'm devastated by what's happened,' Dr Wright explains. 'I joined the Army 14 years ago, at the height of the Afghan war, to help the young men and women who were putting their lives and limbs on the line for this country.

'But this is no longer an organisation I wish to serve in. I've gone because my chain of command hasn't got the moral courage to back me up in something like this.

'The Army is absolutely riddled with political correctness and they are completely beholden to the trans lobby. I've nothing against the LGBT community, but there is a small and noisy cabal of activists that treat trans identity like a cult or religion  and woe betide anyone who offends or disagrees with them.

Dr Wright shared, without comment, a Facebook post (above) that he considered simple common sense  but which promoted an angry backlash from one of his junior officers

'It's no longer a chain of command I wish to be part of.'

Dr Wright was a stellar asset to the Army reservists when he joined aged 38 in 2009.

He had worked in the NHS since 1992, and was by then an intensive care consultant at Frimley Park Hospital in Surrey. His decision to join the Army, he jokes, was his version of a mid-life crisis, 'less expensive than a Porsche and more acceptable than a divorce'.

He added: 'The Army took me back to the excitement of the emergency work, and I felt it was time to do my bit. It was some of the proudest medicine I've ever done.'

After completing his training at Sandhurst, he was deployed to Afghanistan in 2011.

There he was placed in charge of a Medical Emergency Response Team on a Chinook helicopter, based at the UK's Camp Bastion headquarters. Every day for three months he flew around Taliban-controlled Helmand province to attend to casualties.

'It was harrowing,' he recalls. 'We were dealing with casualties who had horrendous injuries  sometimes with multiple limbs missing. I'm very proud of the work we did, resuscitating people in the field and keeping them alive until we could reach the hospital at Bastion.'

When he returned for another three-month stint the following year, it was to run the emergency department at Camp Bastion as lead consultant.

More recently, he led a team of 60 troops in 306 Hospital Support Regiment, providing vital medical battlefield training to Ukrainian soldiers to help save lives after the Russian invasion.

Dr Wright tells distressing stories of his time in Afghanistan.

Accusing the Army's leadership of a 'failure of moral courage' in neglecting to back him, Dr Wright (pictured) says he had no option but to walk away

He recalls one occasion in Helmand when his Chinook, escorted by two Apache attack helicopters, landed in the middle of a battlefield to rescue a severely wounded British soldier. He said: 'There were bullets coming in from both sides when we opened the back and had to get this poor guy on board. Fortunately we were able to get him in and saved his life.'

Another time, the Chinook landed next to an armoured vehicle that had been flipped over by an improvised explosive device (IED). One soldier had been killed and another seriously injured. It was only later they learned their landing site was heavily mined and the helicopter had actually landed on another IED which luckily didn't explode.

While he was back on the NHS wards in May this year, his wife Nancy happened to share on Facebook a post from campaign group Fair Play for Women, quoting Ms Joyce, an activist who has been backed by Harry Potter author JK Rowling. Dr Wright glanced at it, agreed wholeheartedly with the sentiment and shared it to his own network, without further comment.

'My wife has a real interest in women's sports, women's rights, women's protection, safe spaces, and so on,' Dr Wright says. 'So she shared this quote on Facebook about how men cannot be women. This seemed like common sense and an important issue, so as a loyal husband, I also shared it.'

But that simple act, on his personal Facebook page, prompted an inquiry. The first hint of what lay ahead came in a text message from one of Dr Wright's junior officers, who is also one of the Army's LGBTQ+ champions.

More recently, Dr Wright led a team of 60 troops in 306 Hospital Support Regiment, providing vital medical battlefield training to Ukrainian soldiers to help save lives after the Russian invasion

'The text was giving me a lecture on transgender people, bullying and harassment, and saying that he was disconnecting himself from my Facebook posts,' Dr Wright explained. But if the medic felt bewildered, worse was to follow.

'The next thing I knew, I had a phone call from my superior saying, 'You've upset a lot of people, you're in a lot of trouble, we're going to have to investigate you.' Dr Wright now understands his bosses had received the seven-page letter from LGBTQ+ activists within the Army, at least one of whom had trained as a man but now identifies as a woman.

The only thing Dr Wright knows about its contents is that it objects to him remaining in the Army because of what he shared online.

He was told he faced a disciplinary process and he was asked for a statement. It is understood that one of the Army's concerns was that Dr Wright's Facebook profile picture features him in uniform, but his posts do not include a disclaimer that his views were not a reflection of the Army's. This kind of minor transgression would usually be dealt with quickly, with a warning and advice on future conduct.

Dr Wright says: 'I didn't know what I was responding to. They never showed me the full complaint.' Four weeks went by with no further contact from his superiors.

Increasingly, as Dr Wright saw it, the Army was in a Catch-22 situation. 'The Army is afraid of the backlash if they do the obvious thing and find me not guilty. But neither can they declare me guilty and recommend a sanction because that would be ridiculous. They're just doing nothing, unwilling to commit themselves. I've just had this thing hanging over me, this terrible slur on my honour.

It is understood that one of the Army's concerns was that Dr Wright's Facebook profile picture features him in uniform, but his posts do not include a disclaimer that his views were not a reflection of the Army's. (file image)

'It felt like I was being forced out, so I resigned.'

This was not a decision Dr Wright took lightly. He was only six years from retirement and he remains 'very proud' of his service. But it indicates not just his frustration at the 'cabal' of activism in the Army but how deeply the accusations  and his subsequent treatment by top brass  have wounded him.

'It's such a shame the Army has allowed itself to become tangled up in this crazy trans ideology,' he said. 'The one positive thing to come out of it is the outpouring of support I've received from soldiers I've never ever met, many of them women. On my last day, some of them came in from home to salute me and thank me for my service, which was very moving.'

Dr Wright  who now works at King's Mill Hospital in Mansfield, Nottinghamshire, and lives in the sleepy village of Cuckney nearby  is now taking legal advice.

Just last week, women's rights campaigner Maya Forstater was awarded more than 100,000 compensation after a tribunal found she faced discrimination and victimisation over her 'gender critical' views at the Centre for Global Development think-tank, where she worked as a researcher.

It is not, however, financial compensation that Dr Wright is seeking. 'This is about honour, my good name and the slur that's been put on it,' he said. 'If I don't get some form of redress for how this process has been completely mishandled, this slur will remain on me forever.

Dr Wright has sought help from the Free Speech Union, which offered to support him. Pictured: Toby Young, the group's general secretary

'That's why I want them to come to a verdict, so more poor schmucks won't have to go through this in the future.'

Asked if he would consider re-joining the military if he is formally cleared of wrongdoing, he said: 'No, that ship has sailed. I'm not one of these people who resigns or throws their toys out of the pram to get what they want. They had their chance over six weeks to treat me properly and sort this out.'

Dr Wright has sought help from the Free Speech Union, which offered to support him.

The group's general secretary, Toby Young, said: 'It beggars belief that the Army would treat any of its soldiers in this way.

'If people risk their lives to serve our country they should be given medals, not placed under investigation for defending women's rights. Our armed forces are turning into a woke joke.'

An Army spokesman said: Personnel may face administrative action where they breach the Armys social media policy, this includes wearing uniform on profiles without the relevant disclaimers on personal views. Such cases would not result in dismissal or career impinging action.

Col Wrights administrative action had nothing to do with nature of his views, which do not contravene MoD Policy.
Scotland Yard has been accused of 'sabotage' after they allegedly allowed the sixth man in the killing of Stephen Lawrence to evade justice.

Duwayne Brooks, Stephen's friend who was with him when the 18-year-old was murdered, said he could have identified Matthew White - who was named as a suspect last week - had police put him in a line-up.

'If they had put him in an ID parade in front of me at the time I would have pick him out 100 per cent,' Duwayne told the Mirror.

He added he is 'extremely confident' other people at the bus stop would have picked White out, too, saying the case would have already been solved then.

Duwayne claimed he took part in several ID parades, but White was never put before him after being placed in the witness bracket rather than the suspect one.

Duwayne Brooks (left, next to Stephen's father, right), Stephen's friend who survived the attack, said he could have identified Matthew White - who was named as a suspect last week - had police put him in a line-up

Duwayne claimed he took part in several ID parades, but White (pictured left in police surveillance picture after attack) was never put before him after being placed in the witness bracket rather than the suspect one. Stephen Lawrence (right), 18, an aspiring architect, was murdered on his way home in an unprovoked attack by a gang of racists in Eltham, south-east London, in April 1993

'It was a deliberate act of sabotage. He died without having faced court. It's disappointing,' the attack survivor today said.

Stephen Lawrence, 18, an aspiring architect, was murdered on his way home in an unprovoked attack by a gang of racists in Eltham, south-east London, in April 1993.

Stephen Lawrence: The racist murder that marked Britain Jamie Acourt and his brother Neil were teenagers when Stephen Lawrence was stabbed to death at a bus stop in Eltham, south-east London, in April 1993. Two of the other suspects, Gary Dobson and David Norris, were convicted of murder in 2012 and jailed for life following a DNA breakthrough. But the Acourt brothers have never been convicted. At the time of Stephen's death, the Acourts described themselves as the Krays, modelling themselves on the brothers who dominated London's criminal underworld in the 1960s. The gang they were in is believed to have been responsible for a string of violent attacks, invariably featuring knives. Luke Knight was named as the fifth suspect by the Daily Mail. He has never been charged and denies being involved. The case has brought great shame on the Metropolitan Police. Stephen's parents Doreen and Neville Lawrence have continued to campaign for justice for their son and have shone a light on racism and corruption in the Met. Advertisement

BBC News detailed a series of police failings in handling information linked to him.

White, who died two years ago of a drug overdose aged 50, was treated as a witness by Scotland Yard - but the BBC's report claimed that a relative contacted police and stated White had been there when the murder took place in Eltham.

His stepfather Jack Severs, who died in 2020, was only spoken to for the first time in 2013 and was shocked that it had taken two decades to be visited by Scotland Yard, telling Detective Chief Inspector Clive Driscoll sarcastically: 'You're rushing this job.'

Mr Severs said that in the days after Stephen's murder he saw White in the street in Eltham and his stepson admitted being there when the teen was killed. White acted like it was an 'everyday occurrence' and insisted Stephen 'had deserved it', he said.

White also matched the description of a 'fair-haired attacker' who 'stood out' and may have struck the first blow on Stephen.

All the other five suspects had dark hair. He was spotted twice in streets near the murder scene on the night in question.

Duwayne said: 'The description I gave didn't match the five suspects we got told about, but the police knew it was remarkably similar to this guy [White]. It's sickening. I believe it was deliberate.'

The original investigation was hampered by racism and claims of corruption, with one of the suspects being the son of convicted drug smuggler Clifford Norris.

Metropolitan Police detectives had five names passed to them within days of Stephen's murder, but only two of five or six attackers have ever been brought to justice.

David Norris, 46, and Gary Dobson, 47, got life for murder in 2012, as Dobson was sentenced to a minimum of 15 years and two months, while Norris received a minimum of 14 years and three months and will be eligible for parole next year.

The three other suspects Luke Knight, 46, and brothers Neil, 47, and Jamie Acourt, 46 have not been convicted and deny involvement in the killing of Stephen.

All five men were named by The Daily Mail as Stephen's killers.

After the trial in 2012 of Norris and Dobson, trial judge Mr Justice Treacy said: 'On the evidence before the court, there are still three or four other killers of Stephen Lawrence at large.'

Two original suspects, Gary Dobson (left) and David Norris (right), were convicted of murdering Stephen in 2012 and jailed for life after new evidence came to light. Dobson was sentenced to a minimum of 15 years and two months, while Norris received a minimum of 14 years and three months and will be eligible for parole next year

Jamie Acourt (left) and his brother Neil (right) were also suspects but were never convicted. They were later jailed for drugs offences

Duwayne was clear that he saw a group of six white youths cross the road and 'engulf' Stephen, who was hit on the head with a bat and stabbed, leaving a ten-inch knife wound in his neck.

He said he saw five or six people were chasing him, with the nearest one to him allegedly being White and told the Mirror: 'He worked as a scaffolder and in my statement I described one of the attackers carrying a bar, like a scaffold pole, which was found.'

Matthew White was never named in relation to the case until 2012, during the trial of Dobson and Norris.

He was described as a crucial witness who had seen them in the aftermath of the attack.

It was later claimed that he had seen Dobson after he stripped his clothes off and had a shower. It was also claimed that he had seen the suspects washing a blood-stained knife.

But police never called him as a witness at the Old Bailey and he gave only a short statement. He alleged that the murder may have been an initiation by someone who wanted to join the Acourts' gang, which terrorised the area.

The BBC has revealed that White died in 2021 of a drug overdose in a bedsit. He was said to be suicidal and depressed at the time.

White was arrested twice on suspicion of murder in March 2000 and in December 2013. The Met claim that on both occasions the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) advised there was no realistic prospect of conviction for any offence.

The Metropolitan Police this week apologised again for its handling of the case. They admitted they had made 'many mistakes in the initial investigation', including not tracking down Jack Severs. 'This was a significant and regrettable error,' the force said.

Deputy Assistant Commissioner Matt Ward said: 'The impact of the racist murder of Stephen Lawrence and subsequent inquiries continues to be felt throughout policing.

Another Lawrence murder suspect, Luke Knight, remains living in south London. He denies involvement in Stephen's killing

'Unfortunately, too many mistakes were made in the initial investigation and the impact of them continues to be seen.

'On the 30th anniversary of Stephen's murder, Commissioner Sir Mark Rowley apologised for our failings and I repeat that apology today.'

Duwayne said he feels 'let down as a victim and a witness' by police, adding he couldn't understand how no one was ever charged with attacking him.

He now wants to carry out his own review into the police's failings in the case as well as get a direct apology by Commissioner Sir Mark Rowley.

He also hopes to learn why the Crown Prosecution Service has not ruled on whether four detectives in the initial inquiry should face criminal charges, despite their files being passed on two years ago.

The BBC investigation also found:

Another witness told police in 2000 that White had admitted being part of the attack. But again officers failed to trace him;

Another UK police force asked the Met to consider if White was present during the murder, but Scotland Yard apparently did not follow this up properly;

White had an alibi but lied. Detectives accepted his account;

He was the only person who fitted the description of the 'fair-haired attacker' seen by Duwayne Brooks.

Clive Driscoll, the officer who finally convicted Dobson and Norris, claims that former Met Commissioner Cressida Dick suggested to him in 2012 that he should not try to get the other suspects - despite the judge in their trial saying the police should try to get the remaining three or four;

Mr Driscoll continued to investigate but says he was made to retire before he could finish that work;

MailOnline has approach the Met Police for response to Duwayne's comments.
A mile wide tornado has devastated a rural Canadian town on Canada Day, with celebration events across the country canceled amid further storm warnings.

Images captured and shared on social media show a huge tornado barreling through homes in the rural town of Didsbury, Alberta, earlier today.

Nearby towns including Carstairs where also impacted by the large scale storm which is said to have been moving at 25 miles per hour.

Environment and Climate Change Canada had issued alerts for the storm they said was producing a tornado, damaging winds, large hail and intense rainfall.

In a warning, they said: 'Environment Canada meteorologists are tracking a severe thunderstorm that is producing a tornado.

'Damaging winds, large hail and locally intense rainfall are also possible. This tornado is located near Didsbury and is moving southeast at 40 km/h. This is a dangerous and potentially life-threatening situation.

Storm chaser Aaron Jayjack shared the footage onto his Twitter page, which is filled with debris

The tornado is said to have ben moving at a speed of 40km/h and was considered potentially life-threatening

People are pictured here embracing after a tornado damaged their homes near Carstairs, Alberta

The Royal Canadian Mounted Police confirmed that a number of homes had been damaged and that people had been hurt, but they do not yet know the severity of those injuries.

The twister brought with it large balls of hail, with one person on social media describing them as the 'biggest hail I have ever seen'.

Sharing images of what had landed on the ground in Didsbury, Randi Ingram posted: Hoping everyone is safe what a fast turn of weather.

'This tornado touched down right in front of my parents house and took out houses, tractors, vehicles and farms.

'In Didsbury we got smashed with some of the biggest hail I have ever seen.'

Melissa Boucher who manages a campground near Didsbury told Calgary CTV: 'It was way too close for comfort.

'I got an alert to my phone and typically what we do is drive around and tell everyone (at the campground) to stay inside and if they're in a tent, to head to one of the outbuildings.

'There wasn't even time for that this time. There was like fist-sized hail and I looked outside and saw the funnel clouds. It was pretty quick and pretty terrifying.'

Pictures and video taken of Didsbury following the storm shows numerous homes devastated by the storm.

A large area of what is thought to have been woodland has been completely flattened, with broken twisted trees splattered across the area.

In total, 14 houses were affected by the tornado with five being completely destroyed.

One woman was trapped in her basement as her home was destroyed around her, but rescue crews managed to pull her from the rubble.

No people were injured, but 25 cows and 20 chickens died as a result of the tornado, with a horse also needing to be put down.

A woman looks for her belongings amongst the debris following the devastating storm

The damage left by the storm can be seen here, ripping trees apart and leaving a house in the background badly damaged with no roof

Ingram shared the images of the hail that had landed near his home in Didsbury and compared it to a Canadian dollar

Extensive damage is visible on homes in the town, with this one having no roof left following the storm

On Saturday night, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau tweeted: 'To those who were injured by the tornado near Didsbury, Alberta, and to those whose homes have been damaged: Canadians are here for you, and we are keeping you in our thoughts.

'As officials continue to monitor the situation, please stay safe.'

Due to the severe weather sweeping parts of the country, the federal Department of Canadian Heritage suspended Canada Day activities in the capital, Ottawa.

In a mid-day bulletin, the government agency said: 'Canadian Heritages Canada Day activities in the National Capital Region are suspended until further notice.

Prime Minister Trudeau tweeted that his thoughts are with those affected and that officials would be continuing to monitor the situation

Half of the tiling on the roof of this property had been stripped back due to the tornado

The City of Ottawa posted online that people in the downtown area who needed to seek shelter from the storm could do so at City Hall.

Canada's national holiday is always observed on July 1st after The British North America Act which was signed on that day in 1867 created Canada.

Latest figures show that there is currently 552 fires burning across the country, with 281 of them being out of control.

At two separate times last month the smoke had crossed over into the United States bringing with it terrible air quality for millions.

New York City: The Statue of Liberty stands in front of a hazy New York City skyline in this view from Jersey City, New Jersey

Washington DC: Cars are seen in this picture driving in the hazy smoke on South Capitol Street towards the Capitol Building

On Thursday, smoke from the fires caused more than 120 million Americans to be placed under 'very unhealthy' air quality alerts.

Chicago, Cleveland, Maryland and Pittsburgh were the worst affected by the fog, with a Code Red alert being issued for much of the Mid West and Washington DC.

The latest blanket of smoke that descended on parts of the states earlier this week came three weeks after New York City was enveloped by smoke from the same fires.

At the time, health experts warned breathing the fog can be as damaging as smoking 22 cigarettes a day.
Tory London Mayor hopeful Mozammel 'Moz' Hossain was given a boost last night after a poll backed a lawyer like him to fight crime in the capital.

Asked which profession was best-placed to combat crime, more than a third  36 per cent  of Londoners opted for a criminal barrister and King's Counsel  Mr Hossain's job.

The figure fell to 17 per cent for a London Assembly member and business owner like Susan Hall, Mr Hossain's competitor to be chosen as Tory Mayoral candidate. A mere seven per cent plumped for a former government adviser and tech entrepreneur like former Tory candidate Daniel Korski, who withdrew from the race last week after being accused of groping a female TV producer, which he denies.

Crime was named as one of the top three issues affecting Londoners in the Savanta poll, beaten only by the cost of living and affordability of housing.

In an interview with The Mail on Sunday last month, Mr Hossain revealed that he did not own a pair of shoes until he was 16.

The potential candidate, who has been dubbed 'mystery Moz' because of his sudden arrival, grew up in a family of ten in Bangladesh before moving to Britain at 21 to study law

The potential candidate, who has been dubbed 'mystery Moz' because of his sudden arrival, grew up in a family of ten in Bangladesh before moving to Britain at 21 to study law.

He is now the first Bangladesh-born criminal barrister to become a Queen's or King's Counsel.

He is a bus driver's son like Labour's Sadiq Khan, who will fight to win a third term in the mayoral election on May 2, 2024. He will face either Mr Hossain or Ms Hall as Conservative candidate, with the winner being announced on Wednesday, July 19. Mr Hossain's main pledge is to make London's streets safer.

He said: 'One area where Sadiq Khan has failed indisputably is crime.I have been a criminal barrister for 21 years.

'There is not an aspect of the criminal justice system I don't have the most intimate and expert knowledge of. That's where I'll tackle him.'

He also pledges an institutional overhaul of the scandal-hit Metropolitan Police, by setting up an independent anti-corruption body.

Labour's Sadiq Khan (pictured) will fight to win a third term in the mayoral election on May 2, 2024

The Savanta poll of 1,003 adults, which took place between June 20 and 28, also showed that nearly half of Londoners are unhappy with Mr Khan's performance as Mayor, suggesting he could be beatable.

Despite Labour being ahead in the polls, 45 per cent of residents say they are dissatisfied with his time in the role, while 27 per cent are satisfied.

Some 43 per cent think Mr Khan has made London worse since 2016, compared with 28 per cent who say he has made the capital better.

This follows Mr Khan expanding the Ultra Low Emission Zone (Ulez) to the whole city in an attempt to create cleaner air. Drivers in the outer suburbs will have to pay a 12.50 daily levy or a 180 fine after August 29 if their vehicles pollute too much.

The survey also found that 69 per cent of Londoners rank the cost of living as the top challenge facing the city. This was followed by affordability of housing (44 per cent) and crime and policing (37 per cent).
Fat-cat water bosses are still pushing back against plans to curb bonuses, The Mail on Sunday can reveal.

Regulator Ofwat wants to block inappropriate bonuses but faces protests from water companies.

New documents from Ofwat's consultation on the issue reveal several companies raised concerns that shaking up executive pay rules could prevent them attracting talented candidates.

Firms have been blasted for handing huge payouts to bosses despite racking up huge debts and polluting Britain's rivers.

The industry's problems were thrust into the spotlight last week when the Government was forced to draw up emergency plans to save Thames Water.

The firm, Britain's largest water supplier, has debts of 14 billion. Companies in England and Wales have an estimated 65 billion of debt, according to the latest figures

Thames Water handed its chief executive Sarah Bentley (pictured), who left abruptly last week, about 2 million last year, although she said in May that she would forgo this year's bonus

The firm, Britain's largest water supplier, has debts of 14 billion. Companies in England and Wales have an estimated 65 billion of debt, according to the latest figures.

Lord Howard, who led the privatisation of the water industry more than 30 years ago under Margaret Thatcher, yesterday said: 'I think it is arguable the companies have been allowed to take on too much debt,' he said.

But he defended water privatisation and said industries under public ownership must 'compete for resources' with the likes of health, education and police.

Thames Water handed its chief executive Sarah Bentley, who left abruptly last week, about 2 million last year, although she said in May that she would forgo this year's bonus. But high earners are littered across the water sector, with Severn Trent's chief executive Liv Garfield pocketing 3.2 million last year. United Utilities boss Steve Mogford took home 3.2 million in 2022, despite the firm having 8.2 billion debt.

David Black, Ofwat chief executive, said that 'we will review all executive director's bonus payments'. In an interview with the MoS last year, he said he was facing opposition to Ofwat's attempts to stop huge sums of money being funnelled to shareholders.

Black singled out Thames Water for criticism at the time, claiming it had 'poor finances and really poor operational performance'.

Thames Water was contacted for comment.
A row erupted last night over claims that a Labour council was considering spending taxpayers' cash on 90 zero-emissions buses from China instead of buying British ones.

The move by Blackpool Transport Services  owned by Blackpool council  comes two years after bus enthusiast Boris Johnson pledged 3billion to buy 4,000 British-built electric or hydrogen vehicles.

Tory MP Sir Robert Goodwill said of the multi-million-pound Blackpool deal: 'It's beyond farcical that UK taxpayer money intended to buy 'British-built' buses is to be used to import poorer-quality vehicles from China.'

A row erupted last night over claims that Blackpool Labour council was considering spending taxpayers' cash on 90 zero-emissions buses from China instead of buying British ones

It comes two years after bus enthusiast Boris Johnson pledged 3billion to buy 4,000 British-built electric or hydrogen vehicles

Sir Robert, chairman of the Commons Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Committee, said the Department for Transport had been 'asleep at the wheel', adding: 'Ministers and Labour's Blackpool council need to get a grip.

'This decision will mean potential job losses in the UK, poorer quality buses for Blackpool residents, and UK taxpayer money ending up in the pockets of the People's Republic of China.'

However, sources said last night that although the proposed bid did contain 'elements from China', the preferred bidder was English.

Blackpool Transport Services said: 'A preferred supplier has been selected. The contract is yet to be awarded.'
Gambling addiction centres will open across the country this summer as demand hits a record high.

The NHS is rapidly expanding its support services for thousands seriously addicted to gambling.

Figures published today show 1,400 patients were referred for help last year. This is up by more than a third on the previous 12 months and a rise of nearly 80 per cent compared to two years ago.

The seven new clinics will be in Milton Keynes, Thurrock in Essex, Bristol, Derby, Liverpool, Blackpool and Sheffield.

They will join centres in London, Leeds, Newcastle, Manchester, Southampton, Stoke-on-Trent and Telford, Shropshire. Another London clinic treats gambling and gaming addiction in children and young people.

Gambling addiction centres will open across the country this summer as demand hits a record high. (file image)

Gambling Commission figures show about 138,000 people could be problem gamblers, with 1.3 million more classed as moderate or low-risk punters. The NHS plans to treat up to 3,000 patients a year across the 15 clinics.

Its chief executive, Amanda Pritchard, said: 'This expansion shows the NHS is again adapting to new healthcare needs.

'In 1948, when the NHS was founded, you had to go to a bookies to place a bet. Now people can gamble on their phone at the touch of a button and everyone, young and old, is bombarded with adverts encouraging them to take part.'

The latest clinics will treat people with serious addiction issues through cognitive behavioural therapy, family therapy, support groups and aftercare. NHS teams including psychologists, therapists, psychiatrists, mental health nurses and peer support workers also offer support to family members.

NHS mental health director Claire Murdoch added: 'I hope further action is taken to protect the young from being bombarded by gambling ads while watching sport.'

NHS chief executive Amanda Pritchard (pictured) said the 'expansion shows the NHS is again adapting to new healthcare needs'

Last week, Leicester coroner Ivan Cartwright criticised bookie Betfair for failing to intervene before problem-gambler Luke Ashton, 40, killed himself after betting more than 100 times a day.

His widow, Annie, said Mr Cartwright's criticism vindicated her belief that 'gambling destroys families and causes suicides'.

Ian Brown, chief executive of Flutter, Betfair's parent company, said: 'We wish to reiterate our sincere condolences to Ms Ashton and her family. We are truly sorry for their loss.'
The first black socialist woman elected to Boston City Council crashed her car while driving through the city in an unregistered, uninsured car, while her license was revoked.

Kendra Lara, 33, totaled the gray 2019 Honda Civic when it crashed through a metal fence, ran over bushes, and slammed into the left side of a home in the Jamaica Plains district.

Her seven-year-old son Zaire was in the car, but was not in a booster seat.

He was taken to Boston Children's Hospital where he received 'several stitches' and is expected to make a full recovery.

According to the police report, obtained by The New York Post, Lara could be reported for child abuse or neglect for failing to secure a child under eight.

Kendra Lara, 33, is pictured with her seven-year-old son Zaire. The pair were both injured when Lara crashed her unlicensed car on Friday afternoon, driving on a revoked license

Lara's car crashed through a fence and hit a house in the Jamaica Plains district of Boston

A 51A report which must be submitted to the Department of Children and Families when 'child abuse or neglect' is suspected could be filed 'due to neglect and failure to use a proper car seat for the child's safety.'

Lee Nave, Lara's chief of staff, said the city councilor suffered 'some cuts and will probably require some stitches.'

He added: 'She braced for the airbag and then climbed in the back to get him out.'

Nave said Lara was driving when she swerved to avoid an accident and crashed through a fence and yard before striking a house.

'It was a very scary situation for everyone involved but thankfully Councilor Lara and Zaire are expected to make a full recovery,' he added.

The driver of the other vehicle said that Lara was driving at high speed.

He told officers he was 'barely in motion' when he noticed Lara's Civic rapidly approaching at around 4:25pm on Friday.

He said that her Civic sped past him and 'suddenly turned left, crashing into the home.'

Boston police are still investigating, and assessing damage to the house, The Boston Globe reported.

Lara will be summonsed to West Roxbury Court for charges including operation of a motor vehicle after suspension, operating an unregistered motor vehicle and operating an uninsured motor vehicle.

A second person will be summonsed for allowing unlicensed operation and allowing operation of the unregistered motor vehicle, the police report said.

Lara was elected in November 2021 as the first black female socialist on Boston City Council

Lara has multiple driving offenses on her record, obtained by The Boston Herald.

In 2014 she was accused of not wearing a seatbelt and not obeying a traffic sign. She failed to appear in court in Connecticut, and her license was revoked.

The record also shows a violation in the Boston neighborhood of Dorchester in August 2010, for not possessing a vehicle registration.

Lara, born in the Bronx to Dominican immigrants, grew up in Boston and worked as the Director of Radical Philanthropy at the Boston-based organization Resist, founded 50 years ago by Noam Chomsky.

The group is designed to be 'a leading force for racial and economic justice', according to Lara's official biography.

She was elected in November 2021 and took up her seat in January 2022, insisting that the word socialism should not scare people.

'When I'm in conversation with people who are apprehensive about Socialism, I ask them to consider who stands to benefit from maintaining the status quo. Who wins when workers are exploited? Who profits if we can't afford healthcare? Who benefits when housing is unaffordable?' she told Jamaica Plains News in January 2022.

'Socialism benefits the vast majority of us.

'There are a few - those who benefit from the oppression and exploitation of others - that, in a narrow view, stand to lose something in a fair and equal society.

'Unsurprisingly, these are the folks who often get to shape the public narrative.

'Whether through decades-long propaganda campaigns from the US government or political mailers like the ones sent out by my opponent, they've managed to convince our neighbors and us that socialism is a threat. But a threat to what? And to whom?'
He is a firm royal favourite who once tried to chew the late Queen's bouquet.

Now, in recognition of his service to his country, Corporal Cruachan IV has been granted a key role in the King's forthcoming Scottish coronation.

The 14-year-old Shetland pony, the mascot of the Royal Regiment of Scotland, will escort the People's Procession from Edinburgh Castle to St Giles Cathedral.

At just 11hh (3ft7in) Cruachan IV, or Four as he is known in military circles, makes up for his short stature with a big personality  and impressive social media following (he has almost 3,500 followers on Twitter alone).

In 2016, during a state visit to Stirling Castle, the gelding famously took a bite out of the Queen's sweet pea posy.

Corporal Cruachan IV (pictured with the late Queen in 2021) has been granted a key role in the King's forthcoming Scottish coronation

The Monarch, known for her love of horses and ponies, was seen laughing and hiding the flowers behind her back before telling him to 'go away'. She then gave him a pat before heading inside for a church service.

Two years later, the cheeky pony tried to nibble Prince Harry's fingers during his first official joint visit to Scotland with then fiancee Meghan Markle.

Cruachan IV has been the Royal Regiment of Scotland's official mascot for the past decade, representing the Regiment during ceremonial occasions and acting as an animal ambassador.

In 2016, during a state visit to Stirling Castle, the gelding famously took a bite out of the Queen's sweet pea posy (pictured)

As his name suggests, he is the fourth Cruachan to carry out the role since 1929, when Princess Louise, Duchess of Argyll, presented the Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders with a black Shetland gelding.

The first was called Tom Thumb for a short time before being renamed Cruachan  after the battle cry of the Clan Campbell and also Ben Cruachan, highest mountain in Argyll and Bute  by soldiers from the regiment.

When not undertaking public engagements, Cruachan IV spends most of his time at Redford Barracks in Edinburgh where he is cared for by Pony Major Mark Wilkinson.

It takes up to three hours to brush Cruachan's coat, comb his mane and tail, polish his hooves and dress him in his regimental tartan saddle cloth, which he will wear on Wednesday.
Police were last night considering bringing criminal charges over The Prince's Foundation 'cash-for-honours' scandal, The Mail on Sunday has learned.

The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) has now analysed evidence into claims first published in this newspaper that foreign tycoons were being offered help to obtain honours in exchange for donations to King Charles's charity.

The Met Police said: 'A file was passed to the CPS on October 31, 2022 for early advice. On Thursday, we received the advice and it is now being considered.'

The CPS has now analysed evidence into claims first published in this newspaper that foreign tycoons were being offered help to obtain honours in exchange for donations to King Charles's charity

The Met Police said: 'A file was passed to the CPS on October 31, 2022 for early advice. On Thursday, we received the advice and it is now being considered'

The case focuses on a letter first published in the Mail on Sunday in which Michael Fawcett, a long-time aide of the King and a former chief executive of the charity, offered to help a wealthy Saudi donor obtain a Knighthood and British citizenship in exchange for his ongoing generosity.

Mahfouz Marei Mubarak bin Mahfouz had given generously to the charity and was presented with a CBE in 2016 by the King, then the Prince of Wales, in a private ceremony at Buckingham Place which was not disclosed on the court circular, the official record of royal duties.

Emails appeared to show a direct link between the donations received and the honours.

Two men were questioned under caution over the scandal.
It happened 50 years ago and a 140 west of here, in a railroad town much like our railroad town, much like all the railroad towns in northern Arizona.

On July 5, 1973, at about 2 p.m., a propane tank car exploded and 11 members of the volunteer Kingman Fire Department and an employee of the Doxol Gas Company were killed instantly or died later from their burns.

The railroad car was filled with 33,000 gallons of propane when it caught fire at approximately 1:30 p.m. The explosion, at 1:58 p.m., created a fireball estimated by investigators to have enveloped 2 acres with temperatures ranging from 2,600 degrees at the center to 1,800 degrees at its outer edge.

Bill Casson, 52, Jimmy Cox, 55, and Roger Hubka, 27, died instantly. Joe Chambers, 37, and Marvin Mast (a Doxol employee) 42, died on July 6. Art Stringer, 25, died on July 7. Chris Sanders, 38, and Lee Williams, 47, died on July 8. Butch Henry, 28, died on July 10. John Campbell, 41, died on July 16. Don Webb, 38, died on July 18. Alan Hansen, 34, died July 19. They left behind 29 children.

Fifty years ago.

For those of us affected by that tragedy, time has not erased much. Not the community wide call for ice; not the two-week vigil that followed and the news of yet another death; not the anniversary. July 5, every year. July 5.

Living memory gradually dissolves as each generation passes away. Of those who were there that day, who heard the blast, who felt the heat, their number shrinks as time passes.

Its a shame, and yet thats the way these things go. But there were lessons learned from that tragedy that have prevented similar tragedies since. Video of the situation and the results of study and investigation identified the nature of the disaster: a Boiling Liquid Expanding Vapor Explosion, or BLEVE. Protocols and training were developed to help prevent a similar loss of life.

The men of the Kingman Volunteer Fire Department didnt have much time to assess the situation. They responded to their pagers. They rolled up in the fire truck or their personal or company vehicles and put on their turnout gear as they watched jets of flame flare from the tanker. They pulled hose to cool the tanker when ...

Fifty years ago. Eventually, nothing will remain but a plaque in a park; perhaps somebody telling a grandchild about a great-grandpa who did a brave thing and died while doing it a long, long time ago.

There are countless tragedies to remember in this life and in these times. Were we to attempt to count them all we would lose our way. We would sink under the weight of so much sorrow. The best we can do, I think, is remember what we can, and honor what we remember.

After all, it was just down the road from us, a couple of hours away.
MPs are set to grill Britain's top military officer over his alleged falling-out with the head of the Army, who quit just over a year into the job, The Mail on Sunday can reveal.

Admiral Sir Tony Radakin, the Chief of the Defence Staff, will be questioned by members of the House of Commons defence select committee on Tuesday about his working relationship with General Sir Patrick Sanders.

The two have had a fractious rapport for the past year, and sources have told the MoS that tensions came to a head in recent weeks, before Gen Sanders quit over Army budget cuts.

One committee member said Admiral Radakin will be grilled on the matter when he appears at an evidence session to discuss Army morale, adding that he faces 'serious questions' about why Gen Sanders is stepping down.

The MP said: 'It's going to be a lively session  there are a lot of things we need answers on.'

Admiral Sir Tony Radakin, the Chief of the Defence Staff, will be questioned by members of the House of Commons defence select committee on Tuesday about his working relationship with General Sir Patrick Sanders

The two have had a fractious rapport for the past year, and sources have told the MoS that tensions came to a head in recent weeks, before Gen Sanders quit over Army budget cuts

The MoS previously revealed warnings from the general's friends that he would quit unless plans to cut the Army to about 70,000 soldiers were reversed.

He raised eyebrows in Whitehall when he described the plans as 'perverse'. Sources claim this irritated both Defence Secretary Ben Wallace and Rishi Sunak.

The alleged row between the two men came to a head when Gen Sanders, who was beaten by Admiral Radakin to the Chief of the Defence Staff job in 2021, complained about the Army's ageing fleet of armoured vehicles and tanks, likening them to 'rotary dial telephones in an iPhone age'.

A defence source said: 'There has always been animosity between CDS [the Chief of Defence Staff] and Patrick and it came to a head recently. CDS views him as a stuck record. Patrick felt that he had to do everything possible to minimise the effects of the cuts. He hasn't been pushed out but he sees his position as untenable.'

He raised eyebrows in Whitehall when he described the plans as 'perverse'. Sources claim this irritated both Defence Secretary Ben Wallace and Rishi Sunak

This newspaper understands Gen Sanders's decision to quit early has sparked a behind-the-scenes row between Downing Street and the Ministry of Defence. Downing Street officials felt that the MoD did not push back hard enough against press reports that Gen Sanders was walking early because of the defence cuts.

But a defence source said: 'No10 can't have it both ways. They can't put the MoD on mute and then complain when bad news leaks out.'

Gen Sanders is a veteran of Northern Ireland and the conflicts in Kosovo, Iraq and Afghanistan. He warned last December that plans to cut the Army to 73,000 troops needed to be reversed. He also said that sending weapons to Ukraine had made the Army weaker.

The MoD will begin interviewing candidates in the next few weeks. Britain's first female general, Lieutenant General Sharon Nesmith, is among those tipped for the job. She would be the first woman to lead the Army.

An Army spokesman said: 'We are unable to comment on speculation surrounding the next Chief of the General Staff.'
Church of England bishops have blamed the Government for boosting the profits of people traffickers  by creating a 'boom market' in illegal Channel crossings, The Mail on Sunday can reveal.

In an astonishing criticism of Ministers' efforts to cut illegal immigration, the bishops claim 'the increasing securitisation makes the routes by sea riskier, and the profits for traffickers correspondingly higher'.

In a briefing paper for MPs, they also said that the Government's fight against human trafficking is failing at 'a fundamental of recognising human dignity'.

The clergymen said: 'Fees to traffickers and smugglers are not simply paid upfront, but often include conditional labour and entrapment and exploitation in the UK to work off the debt incurred from being trafficked. In this way, far from creating deterrence, the UK's approach is creating a boom market for criminal enterprises.'

The Mission and Public Affairs Council of the Church of England also claims that the Government has made it 'extremely easy for gangs to take advantage of vulnerable people by offering them the only apparent route to the UK', in their submission to the Home Affairs Select Committee, which is investigating human trafficking.

Church of England bishops have blamed the Government for boosting the profits of people traffickers  by creating a 'boom market' in illegal Channel crossings. Pictured: Migrants arrive into Dover

It comes after Justin Welby (pictured), the Archbishop of Canterbury, caused fury by saying the Government's plan to send migrants to Rwanda does not 'stand the judgment of God'

The stinging criticism comes after Justin Welby, the Archbishop of Canterbury, caused fury by saying the Government's plan to send migrants to Rwanda does not 'stand the judgment of God'.

Critics hit back last night. Alp Mehmet, from Migration Watch UK, said that the Church's 'blind support' for those who cross the Channel 'simply encourages such people to risk their lives and makes the traffickers even richer'.

He added: 'Their Graces are entitled to their opinion, but it is at odds with the way a majority of people view this issue. It is impossible to know for sure who people are and what their motives may be when they make their way here illegally, without documents and claim asylum, in the knowledge that they will likely be allowed to stay in the UK, be they genuine or not.'

Tory deputy chairman Lee Anderson said: 'The Church is clearly out of touch with its flock. If they truly believe we should do more to keep illegal immigrants in this country and love thy neighbour as thyself, they should tell their vicars to host a family in every vicarage.

'While they're at it, the Archbishop can take a few in too. Let's see how that boosts the collection plate every Sunday. Until then, this Conservative Government will carry on delivering on the people's priorities and stop the boats.'

The Mission and Public Affairs Council is in charge of 'research and comment on social and political issues on behalf of the Church'. It is made up of a representative group of bishops, clergy and lay people.

Last week, the Government suffered the latest setback to its Rwanda removals policy.

In a majority decision, judges at the Court of Appeal overturned a High Court ruling that previously said the East African nation could be considered a 'safe third country'.

Tory deputy chairman Lee Anderson (pictured) said: 'The Church is clearly out of touch with its flock.

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has made it a Government priority to cut down illegal crossings

The Court of Appeal's decision was announced by the Lord Chief Justice Lord Burnett, who stressed the court reached its conclusion on the law and took 'no view whatever' about the political merits of the policy.

The Government will seek to appeal, after Rishi Sunak said he 'fundamentally' disagreed with the decision.

A Church of England spokesman said last night: 'The fact that security at our borders plays a part in creating a perverse incentive for traffickers does not entail simply opening our borders completely because that is not the answer, nor have we ever advocated it.

'The point we have always made is we need to stop the boats and stop the trafficking, but the proposed Illegal Migration Bill would achieve neither of those aims.'
In recent years, it sometimes seems that only one set of opinions is allowed on major issues, from global warming and immigration to same-sex marriage and the NHS.

It is still possible for the strong and confident to defy these limits, but the lone individual, especially in the public sector, must be careful not to step too far out of line.

It is an amazing state of affairs. There are no Gulag camps, no secret police, no show trials. But millions of individuals are worried that what they say at work or on social media might get them into trouble, above all by costing them their jobs.

Human rights campaigners will never protest against this. It is too subtle to disturb the watchmen of Amnesty International, vigilant against oppression round the globe. Yet it rolls on, in so many shapes and forms that it is almost impossible to know how and where it will next appear.

Currently the debate about the transgender issue is convulsing schools and universities. In so many cases the response to dissent is no longer to argue but to try to silence it with some form of sanction.

In recent years, it sometimes seems that only one set of opinions is allowed on major issues, from global warming and immigration to same-sex marriage and the NHS

In one, a well-known Corbynite campaigner for strikes, Holly Turner, has been found to be teaching a 'module' on 'activism' to student nurses at the University of Essex. How long will it be before nurses' strikes are taught in schools?

Amid all this, The Mail on Sunday today reports two extraordinary developments.

In one, a well-known Corbynite campaigner for strikes, Holly Turner, has been found to be teaching a 'module' on 'activism' to student nurses at the University of Essex.

Nurses, and student nurses, should of course be free to discuss such issues among themselves and at meetings of their professional bodies. But should it be part of their formal training, which is subsidised by the taxpayer?

Defenders of this should ask how they would view a rival module, in which a Christian teacher, opposed to strikes by nurses, stressed the virtues of obedience to authority and self-discipline. Such a course would be swiftly shut down.

Once again, only one form of speech is truly free.

Next, take the bizarre developments in the Metropolitan Police, in which officers have been told to remove small, discreet badges denoting support for the 'Thin Blue Line', during Pride celebrations this weekend.

Next, take the bizarre developments in the Metropolitan Police, in which officers have been told to remove small, discreet badges denoting support for the 'Thin Blue Line', during Pride celebrations this weekend

This 'Thin Blue Line' is a very old phrase, dating back many decades. It is a commemoration of men and women who have lost their lives in the line of duty. It shows solidarity among police and police families and symbolises support for charities that help the survivors of officers killed in the line of duty. It has no political aim or character. It does not oppose or propose any view on issues such as Pride or anti-racism. How could it? Yet senior officers have chosen to equate it with a different development in the USA, known as 'Blue Lives Matter'. This American body is plainly a counter to the 'Black Lives Matter' movement.

The two have only one thing in common: the use of their different national flags with a thin blue line superimposed.

But now, under the presumption of guilt applied nowadays to anything that even looks conservative, an innocent gesture is tainted. Thanks to this ban, the two are linked whether they want to be or not.

Wearing the British badge will in some cases become a gesture of defiance. Not wearing it may be seen as weakness or wokeness. The effect will be to politicise a perfectly reasonable expression of respect.

Meanwhile, how long will it be before nurses' strikes are taught in schools?

The politically correct takeover of our society has gone too far. It must be reversed, and soon, before the whole world is turned upside down.
The tragic death of a Woolworth's factory worker has triggered supply shortages at some of its busiest stores.

A 37-year-old man died after being crushed by falling pallets at a Woolworths factory in Minchinbury, in western Sydney, on Tuesday.

The unidentified employee was taken to Westmead Hospital in a critical condition but died the following day.

One picture showed an entirely empty salad section, while another shot showed a fruit section stripped bare. The retail giant has since confirmed the shortages are as a result of the tragic incident

Woolworths has since confirmed the shortages are as a result of the tragic incident in which a factory worker was crushed to death by falling pallets

Two other workers who were also injured in the accident have now been discharged from hospital.

Shoppers shared pictures on social media of row-upon-row of empty shelves at Woolworths across Sydney.

One picture showed an entirely empty salad section, while another shot showed a fruit section stripped bare.

The retail giant has since confirmed the shortages are as a result of the tragic incident.

'There has been an impact on supply for some products, including fruit and vegetables, in some of our Sydney stores,' a Woolworths spokesperson told 9News.

'This is due to the tragic accident that took place at one of our distribution centres earlier this week.

'There has been an impact on supply for some products, including fruit and vegetables, in some of our Sydney stores,' said a Woolworths spokesperson

'Our teams are working to return stock to normal levels over the weekend, however there may be slight delays in restocking some products until next week.

'We thank our customers for their understanding at this time.'

A spokesperson for Primary Connect, part of Woolworths Group's supply chain, said they were 'deeply saddened by the tragic incident'.

'Our thoughts and condolences are with our team member's friends and family at this difficult time,' they said.

'We are cooperating with NSW Police and SafeWork NSW to investigate the incident, and we will also be undertaking our own investigation.

'Out of respect for the team members and their families, our distribution centre is currently closed.'

Supply chain staff have reportedly been offered counselling services.
A mother wants to give back to a hospital for the medical miracle that saw her and her unborn son survive pregnancy after a shock cancer diagnosis.

Emma Perkins, from Brisbane, was 12 weeks pregnant with her first child when she received the devastating news she had stage-three breast cancer last July.

Even worse was the news that the pregnancy would 'fuel' the type of cancer she had and it was likely terminal.

Ms Perkins and her husband Jamie (pictured right) cradle their miracle baby boy Owen

'There was a fear ... I wouldn't get to see my son grow up,' Emma told 7News.

Although Ms Perkins had been experiencing sharp chest pains she wrote it off as pregnancy symptoms.

In the months that followed, Ms Perkins endured a lumpectomy and node removal, followed by 16 rounds of chemotherapy at Brisbane's Mater Private Hospital.

Despite obvious concerns about how this would affect her unborn son he arrived the following February perfectly healthy.

'He was there for the journey, his name (Owen) means 'little warrior', he said.

'He endured 11 rounds of chemo inside and operations and is a little fighter.'

Two months after Owen arrived Ms Perkins received the most welcome of news while she was shopping with her father on the anniversary of her mum's passing.

'I received the call from my oncologist while we were in a gift shop,' Ms Perkins said of the call that told her she was cancer-free.

'My dad and I both started crying and hugging in the middle of the shop.'

Ms Perkins is using her story to front the annual fund-raiser for Mater hospital.

Emma Perkins received the devastating news she had stage-three breast cancer while 12 weeks pregnant

'Now I understand first-hand how important research and equipment is within a hospital and is much needed to improve patient outcomes,' she said.

'I donated (previously) knowing that my donation will help others  never did I think that someday I would be a patient.'

Ms Perkins said the hospital's team had been supportive at every stage of her journey to remission and will she will look to them for further treament.

Mater Foundation chief executive Andrew Thomas said last year $1.6 million was raised in just 24 hours with the money going to fund research into the disease.

Breast cancer is the second most commonly diagnosed cancer in the country.

One in eight women and one in 668 men are diagnosed by the time they reach the age of 85.

Some 20,600 people were diagnosed with breast cancer in 2022.
This is the bizarre moment a father becomes emotional when a black man who threatened his family with a knife is arrested because he fears the attacker might think he's racist.

Police had been called to Flowers Park in Doraville, Georgia, in May 2022 where a man was said to be brandishing a knife and threatening a man and his family.

Bodycam footage of the arrest shows the man claim he was peacefully sitting in the park when the family began screaming at him for no apparent reason.

The father of the family gives a different side of the story however, saying the man had been shouting at them and that he pulled a pocket knife on them and told them he wanted them to die.

After police move in to arrest the man after the father, whose identity remains unknown, tears up telling the arresting officers: 'If I thought you were going to arrest him I wouldn't have called.'

The man who is said to have brandished the knife at the family is pictured here after officers appeared on the scene - telling officers the family had been harassing him

The father gives a completely different side of the story, saying it was the black man who had brandished the knife

The man continues: 'Now he's gonna think I'm doing this because I'm white and he's black. Or he's homeless and I'm not. I don't want that.

'I don't want him thinking that I did it because of whatever situation he is in, I just want him to leave us alone.'

As the man protests the arrest, officers are seen taking the man to a waiting police car.

The officer tells him: 'I will need you to fill out a statement form. He had a weapon on him and made terroristic threats.'

According to CrimeCamNow, the man was arrested on charges of simple assault and terroristic threats.

It is not known whether the man was convicted of any of these charges following his arrest last year.

The bodycam footage has now gone viral on social media, with people not believing their eyes at the man crying.

After the officers move in to arrest the man for simple assault and terroristic threats, the man breaks down in tears

Since going viral, the father in the video has been grilled online for crying over the arrest

One person said: 'It's so funny that a grown man was crying like this about an 80 IQ feral criminal who'd probably stab him and laugh about it on Facebook live later.'

Another posted: 'It's been a hot minute since I've seen something this cringe.'

While another tweeted: '"I just wanted him to leave us alone," he whimpers.

'Where humans have a backbone this manbaby has some sort of jelly substance.'

One other posted: 'White liberal cries because he got a black man arrested. The man was threatening to stab and kill him and his family.'
More than 25 rallies will be held over the country on Sunday, as the 'Yes' campaign fights to bolster support for an indigenous Voice to parliament referendum, slated to be held later this year.

Campaign organisers Yes23 said more than 10,000 people had registered their attendance for the events.

By 11am, crowds of people had gathered at locations all across the country, coinciding with the start of Naidoc week.

Key rallies have been organised at inner-city locations in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth, Adelaide and Cairns, with dozens of other smaller community events happening at the same time.

More than 25 rallies will be held over the country on Sunday, as the 'Yes' campaign fights to bolster support for an indigenous Voice to parliament referendum, slated to be held later this year

By 11am, crowds of people had gathered at locations all across the country, coinciding with the start of Naidoc week

Speaking in Brisbane, Indigenous Australians Minister Linda Burney said she believed Australians would rally in support of the referendum.

'The outcome of this referendum, I am sure, you will see the Australian people come together and rise to the occasion and I have every faith in them,' she told Sky News.

Yes 23 campaign Director Dean Parkin said he was excited the conversation on the referendum was being moved out of the Canberra bubble, and into the community.

'For far too long this campaign, this referendum conversation, has been locked up in Canberra with politicians,' he said.

'100 per cent our sole focus is taking that conversation ... because that's where this campaign belongs, that's where this referendum belongs.'

Taking place outside the Victorian Trades Hall, Victorian Aboriginal community Controlled Health Organisation (VACCHO) boss Aunty Jill Gallagher, Australian Council of Trade Unions President Michele O'Neil and indigenous educator, activist and musician Scott Darlow will speak, with performances from Darlow and Robert K Champion.

Grey skies and intermittent showers didn't deter Melbourne supporters from turning up in the thousands.

Wurundjeri and Gunnai Kurnai Elder, Uncle Ringo Terrick urged unity in his speech to attendees.

'Let's join hands and really walking into the future together as a united country and as a united voice,' he said.

In Sydney, NSW Leader of the Government in the Upper House, Penny Sharpe will address a rally in Prince Alfred Park.

Mr Parkin said it was an opportunity for people to learn more about the campaign and hear from speakers about how a yes vote will affect Indigenous communities first hand.

'Community momentum for a Yes vote continues to build and I encourage Australians to head to one of these events and find out how they can get involved in our campaign between now and referendum day,' he said.

In Sydney, NSW Leader of the Government in the Upper House, Penny Sharpe will address a rally in Prince Alfred Park

'We want to reach as many Australians as possible with our positive message that this proposal will give Indigenous people a real say on matters that affect them, whether that be across health, housing or education.

'We want everyday Australians, whether they live in Devonport, Wollongong, Perth or Cairns to go along to an event today, to get informed and join this positive movement.'

According to the latest Newspoll conducted for The Australian, support for the 'Yes' vote was diminishing, dropping to 43 per cent, while support for the 'No' vote had increased by four points to 47 per cent.

The polling marked the first time those opposed to The Voice polled stronger than those in favour of the referendum passing.

While the date of the referendum has yet to be confirmed, Australians are expected to be asked to hit the polls and vote to amend the constitution to recognise indigenous Australians by establishing an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice before the end of the year.
A Texas family is trying to warn people about the dangers of fireworks ahead of the Fourth of July holiday after their teenage son received permanent damage just two years ago.

Nate Weston, then 17, was popping fireworks in his family's Houston-area front yard for the holiday in 2021.

His father, David, said his son did 'everything right' when setting up the explosion and backed away from it.

'The firework never went up. It exploded in the tube. So what happened was, all the pieces went exploding. He instinctively went like this, to protect his face and his arm and wrist sustained the majority of the trauma,' David said.

David Weston is a paramedic and treated his son - blood pouring out of his arm - at the scene before taking him to the hospital.

Nate Weston, then 17, was popping fireworks in his family's Houston-area front yard for he holiday in 2021

'The bones in his wrist were pretty much decimated. And the bones in his forearm were both broken,' David told KHOU.

His son's arm was permanently damaged, David said.

'If you ask him, he's like 'my future literally blew up in my face,'' he added.

Nate suffered a broken forearm, a lacerated wrist and obliterated the bones in his arm.

Surgeons had to put two rods in the arm after cleaning out debris from his wrist, according to Katy Magazine.

He needed to live with artificial skin over the wound for the month before a graft could be performed.

Weston also has limited mobility and can only lift his wrist to a certain extent. He also suffers from PTSD and the injuries ended his dreams of joining the Navy.

David has since become a prevention education coordinator at Memorial Hermann Hospital.

His father, David, said his son did 'everything right' when setting up the explosion and backed away from it

'The firework never went up. It exploded in the tube. So what happened was, all the pieces went exploding. He instinctively went like this, to protect his face and his arm and wrist sustained the majority of the trauma,' David said

Nate suffered a broken forearm, a lacerated wrist and obliterated the bones in his arm

Weston tries to advise people against amateur firework displays, no matter how harmless they seem.

'My advice is to leave it to professionals because you never know what could happen, even if you're being completely 100% safe,' he said.

Dr. Todd Huzar, a burn surgeon at the hospital, says they're as dangerous as using guns without proper training.

'Fireworks are no different than using firearms, there's a risk associated with them that people don't always take into account,' he said.

He warns people to be cautious if they're going to use fireworks, but that it might just be best to not use them.

Dr. Todd Huzar, a burn surgeon at the hospital, says they're as dangerous as using guns without proper training

Sue Davis, a spokesperson for fireworks company Top Dog, added that 'you always want to shoot on open level ground so that nothing falls over'

'Don't mix with alcohol because it could affect your judgment, it can affect your speed and ability to get away. Keep children very far away from them.'

Sue Davis, a spokesperson for fireworks company Top Dog, added that 'you always want to shoot on open level ground so that nothing falls over.'

'Fireworks are not toys. Every firework needs to be treated as something that you have to have a lot of respect for. You need to follow the directions, and follow all the common sense safety rules,' she added.
A young boy was savaged by a dingo while in his fathers arms at a Kgari beach in the latest attack on the popular holiday island.

The child, 8, was at the beach in the Happy Valley area of the island on Saturday evening around sunset with his family when he fell over.

His father scooped him up as a dingo approached before the wild animal suddenly leapt up to bite the boy on the buttocks and scratched down his back, leaving puncture wounds and scratches.

An eight-year-old boy was mauled by a dingo while in his father's arms on Saturday evening at K'gari beach

A paramedic accompanied the boy and his mother to Hervey Bay, where he was taken to hospital for treatment, according to the Courier Mail.

It is understood the family saw multiple dingoes approach them through the darkness as they walked on the beach.

It comes just weeks after a 10-year-old boy was bitten on the shoulder by a dingo and dragged under water.

The 10-year-old was walking along the waters edge on the sand island, formerly known as Fraser Island, when he was stalked and attacked by the dingo near a camping area last month.

He was rescued by his 12-year-old sister and was treated for puncture wounds to his shoulder and bruises to his collarbone.

It comes a few weeks after another dingo was euthanased following a string of attacks, including on a French tourist in her 20s sunbaking on the eastern side of the World Heritage listed island.

Queensland's Department of Environment and Science (DES) told the ABC that attack, which was caught on camera, occurred in April or May.

The decision to humanely euthanase the animal earlier this month was made after it had attacked multiple other tourists, including a seven-year-old boy and a 42-year-old woman.

Rangers said there have been multiple instances on the island where visitors required assistance after they were stalked or snarled at by the wild animals.

It comes just weeks after a French tourists was bitten on the backside by a Dingo at the popular holiday island (pictured)

Assistant principal ranger Danielle Mansfield said tourists were failing to appropriately supervise their children, which on the island meant keeping them within arm's reach of an adult at all times.

'These animals are capable of inflicting serious harm, and they have bitten children and adults, and some are quite brazen and are not fleeing when yelled at or when someone brandishes a stick,' she said.

'People think it won't happen to them, but it can happen to anyone and that's why rangers are providing dingo-safe information to as many people as possible,' she said.

'We don't want any incidents on K'gari, and people must understand that dingoes are wild animals and should never be fed or interacted with.'

Rangers say visitors who discard food or deliberately feed the dingoes have directly caused 'the current and historic problems' between the animals and people on the island.

'This has to stop now, and people have to make (visitors') personal safety and the safety of their friends and families a priority,' Ms Mansfield said.

The dingo or wongari is considered native wildlife under the Nature Conservation Act 1992 and is protected in national parks.

K'gari is a World Heritage-listed island along Queensland's southeastern coast and is part of the Great Sandy National Park, known for its long beaches, forests and pristine freshwater lakes.
Aboriginal leader Patrick Dodson believes Australia will have no integrity to criticise China over its human rights abuses if the Voice to Parliament referendum fails.

The Labor senator, who is an elder of the Yawuru people, made the blunt assertion during his first interview since taking a leave of absence from parliament to undertake medical treatment for an illness back in April.

It comes as recent polls show dwindling support for the Voice to Parliament, with the Yes campaign hoping to boost numbers in the lead up to the referendum.

Australians will vote whether to recognise First Nations people in the constitution by establishing an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice to Parliament sometime between October and December this year.

Senator Dodson says Australia 'stands to lose' and there would be a damning perception of the country on a global scale if the referendum did not succeed.

Aboriginal leader Pat Dodson (pictured) believes Australia will have no integrity to criticise China over its human rights abuses if the Voice referendum fails

'It's not just the first peoples: our nation, in the eyes of the international community, will lose,' he told Nine's newspapers

'Our integrity with our neighbours will certainly be undermined  that's the Pacific. We will give ammunition to our enemies in other places, or people that are opposed to us internationally.'

'We will go through a process of wondering why a simple matter could not be achieved in such a sophisticated nation as ours.'

Senator Dodson said the country would be in no place to criticise China for its treatment of Uyghur Muslims or Tibetans if the referendum failed as Australia would 'have no integrity, absolutely no integrity'.

This comment generated some controversy on social media, with Australians divided over whether it was an appropriate assertion to make.

A number of Aussies applauded the Aboriginal elder for his blunt honesty and frankness when it came to the importance of the Voice to Parliament.

'Of course, Pat Dodson is spot-on. Voice defeat will undermine Australias standing on world stage,' wrote one user.

'Dodson is absolutely right. The entire nation will be diminished if he referendum fails,' commented another.

A third said: 'Pretty well sums things upand from the Father of Reconciliation in this country. Over to you Australia. Lets get this done. Vote YES.'

But others sharply criticised Senator Dodson for comparing it to Beijing's human rights record.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has assured the public this is a 'modest' request which will not impact the lives of most Australians, but make a world of difference to the nation's most vulnerable

His comments were sharply criticised by users on social media, with critics arguing that it was outlandish to compare Australia with China's human rights record if the referendum failed (pictured, China's president Xi Jinping)

'It is unfortunate that Pat Dodson compares Australian human rights conditions to China. Try fact checking,' wrote one user on Twitter.

Another said: 'It's a bit rich to determine that if the NO vote is decided by the Australian population that it is comparable to China's human rights issues.'

'More emotional blackmail and shame based ideas with absolutely nothing of any substance to support the Yes mob,' added a third.

One commentator described the statement as 'nonsense'.

Critics claimed a failed referendum didn't come close to the human atrocities that had been committed in China.

A bombshell report from the United Nations last year found China's 'arbitrary and discriminatory detention' of Uyghurs and other Muslims in the country's Xinjiang region could constitute crimes against humanity.

China has been accused for years of detaining more than one million Uyghurs and other Muslim minorities in the far-western Xinjiang region.

Rights groups accuse Beijing of abuses against Uyghurs, a mainly Muslim ethnic minority that numbers around 10 million in the western region of Xinjiang, including the mass use of forced labour in internment camps.

Beijing has vehemently rejected the claims, insisting it is running vocational training centres in Xinjiang designed to counter extremism.

The report was drawn from interviews with former detainees and others in the know about conditions at eight separate detention centres in the region.

Its authors suggest China was not always forthcoming with information, saying requests for some specific sets of information 'did not receive formal response'.

Human rights groups accuse Beijing of abuses against Uyghurs, a mainly Muslim ethnic minority that numbers around 10 million in the western region of Xinjiang (pictured, a facility near what is believed to be a re-education camp where mostly Muslim ethnic minorities are detained in China's northwestern Xinjiang region)

The report also said that 'there are credible indications of violations of reproductive rights through the coercive enforcement of family planning policies since 2017.'

It added that a lack of government data 'makes it difficult to draw conclusions on the full extent of current enforcement of these policies and associated violations of reproductive rights.'

The report urged Beijing, the UN and the world at large to focus its gaze on the situation described in Xinjiang.

Beijing has closed many of the camps, but hundreds of thousands continue to languish in prison on vague, secret charges.

Senator Dodson said while he wouldn't 'despair' if the Voice was not established, it would be a 'great day of reckoning for Australians'.

However, the Father of Reconciliation remains hopeful that the Yes vote will gain support as the debate moves out of Canberra and into the community.

The Yes vote has been backed by many corporations and organisations such as the big banks, resources giants BHP and Rio Tinto, Wesfarmers, Woolworths and Coles.

The major sporting codes - the AFL and NRL - have publicly supported the Indigenous Voice to Parliament, as have prominent figures in the media.

Senator Dodson explained that advocacy from these groups, individuals and organisations was vital to the success of the referendum.

Senator Dodson slammed the No campaign, saying the leaders of the No vote were the 'rump of the worst' and described them as 'very loud' and 'very intrusive' (pictured, Aboriginal senator Jacinta Nampijinpa Price, who is the leader of Advance's Fair Australia campaign)

Indigenous leader Noel Pearson (pictured) believes there should be more focus on constitutional recognition of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, but Senator Dodson believes the Yes campaign should 'link both matters'

He also took the time to slam the No campaign, which has been led by Aboriginal Senator Jacinta Nampijinpa Price and Indigenous leader Warren Mundine.

Senator Dodson said the leaders of the No vote were the 'rump of the worst' and described them as 'very loud' and 'very intrusive'.

He expressed his view that 'Australians are better' than the heads the No campaign.

There has been some debate amongst the Yes campaign about whether to focus more on constitutional recognition than the advisory body.

Indigenous leader and Voice architect Noel Pearson believes the campaign should lean more on constitutional recognition.

But Senator Dodson disagrees, saying the Yes campaign had to 'link both matters' as he believes there is no point in 'selling people half a chocolate'.
Washington quit UNESCO under then-President Donald Trump at the end of 2018.

Israel and the US stopped paying dues in 2011, after the group voted to include Palestine as a member state. The US also pulled out of UNESCO in 1984 and remained on the sidelines until 2003 because of disagreements over UNESCOs policies.

The US will fund 22% of UNESCOs budget and has committed to repay estimated arrears of $619 million over time.

The Financial world outside of Uncle Sam's borders ain't operating like that..

Pay your outstanding debts in full first and we'll take you back into our fold ...
Students at the Boston University School of Law have been offered therapy to help them 'navigate these times' in the wake of three controversial Supreme Court rulings.

The BU Law Student Government Association's statement was sent to law students on Friday denouncing three major Supreme Court decisions from this week.

These concerned the court outlawing race as a factor in college admissions, quashing President Biden's loan forgiveness plan, and siding with a Christian graphic designer who refused to create a website for a same-sex wedding.

In a letter, first obtained by Fox News, the student board began by slamming the Supreme Court's decision in the students admission case.

According to Fox, it reads: '[The assenting judges] went so far as to say that the race-based admission system uses race as a negative and operates it as a stereotype.'

Students at the Boston University School of Law have been offered therapy to help them 'navigate these times' in the wake of three controversial Supreme Court rulings

Pro Affirmative Action supporters and and counter protestors shout at each outside of the Supreme Court of the United States on Thursday

Demonstrators in favor of Affirmative Action chant in front of the Supreme Court building in Washington, D.C. on Thursday

The letter continued: 'They may couch their opinion in legal jargon, but we all know what this opinion aims to do: advocate for a colorblind admission process.

'However, as many of our students know and Justice Sotomayor says in her dissent, ignoring race will not equalize a society that is racially unequal.

'As a reminder, BU also offers a number of wellness resources that are willing and able to help students navigate these times.'

The university's law school is not offering specialized counseling for its students, but the SGA recommended resources that are already available.

The organization also said: 'These three decisions form part of a lengthy sequence of this court's ruling which steadily erode the rights of marginalized communities and undermine the very diversity upon which our nation was built.'

On Friday, the Supreme Court struck down President Biden's $400 billion student loans forgiveness plan.

The justices ruled 6-3 Biden's controversial plan to wipe out debts for 26 million Americans at taxpayers' expense was unconstitutional and an overreach of his executive power.

It was also announced on Friday that they had ruled in favor of a Christian web design business who refused to design a website for a same-sex wedding.

The day before, the justices voted to ban colleges from using race as a factor when admitting students in a landmark ruling on affirmative action.

Joe Biden's student loan forgiveness scheme had been held up in a legal battle since November

The justices decided in a 6-3 opinion that Harvard University and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (UNC)'s race-based affirmative action admissions policies are unconstitutional

Lorie Smith is a Christian graphic designer who said her religious beliefs would make her decline requests to design wedding websites for same sex couples

This most recent installment by students at Boston University comes at a time of concern over the direction of law schools around the country.

In March, Trump appointed Judge Kyle Duncan was ambushed by students and the associate dean at Stanford University.

Faculty member Tirien Steinbach had launched into a six minute rant on Judge Duncan, which she had written down, condemning his life's work.

Woke students clicked their fingers in support - after progressive colleges warned handclapping can cause offense - and cried 'Yes' in agreement.

Duncan, a 51-year-old Louisiana-born lawyer, known for challenging LGBTQ+ rights, was appointed a federal judge in 2018 by then-President Trump.

Judge Kyle Duncan (left) was ambushed by the associate dean for diversity, equity and inclusion at Stanford Law School, Tirien Steinbach (right)

Judge Duncan stood and shook his head in amazement while Steinbach also voiced her support for free speech.

When Duncan tried to reply to remarks made by Steinbach, students screamed: 'Let her finish!'

They remained hushed and polite while the woke dean espoused her beliefs, but offered Duncan no such courtesy.

Following the incident, the president of the school promised to 'safeguard' free speech after the protest.

We previously told how students at the law school had been forced to undergo 'free speech training' after heckling Duncan.

It was the latest effort by the University to turn over a new leaf following the incident earlier this year.

Two federal judges on the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals also announced they would no longer hire law clerks from Stanford following the incident.
The undocumented gunman accused of killing five neighbors, including a nine-year-old boy, in San Jacinto County could face the death penalty after a grand jury indicted him for capital murder Friday.

Francisco Oropesa, 38, was arrested on May 2. The Mexican national has been behind bars for about two months with his bond set at $7.5million.

He was already charged with five counts of first-degree murder, one charge for each victim he is accused of gunning down during a mass shooting on his block.

The murders were allegedly the result of a growing feud between the neighbors after the defendant's dog killed some of the family's sheep and chickens, Houston Chronicle reports.

The indictment Friday on capital murder allows prosecutors to seek the death penalty in the case, District Attorney Todd Dillon hasn't yet determined if his office will do that.

Francisco Oropesa, 38, was arrested on May 2. He has been behind bars for about two months with his bond set at $7.5million

'We have not decided whether we will seek the death penalty because the defense has not had an opportunity to present any mitigation evidence for the state to consider,' Dillon told CNN.

'We will be sure to give them an opportunity to do so before making that decision.'

Oropesa's attorney, Anthony Osso, said in May that he fully expected the district attorney's office to upgrade charges to capital murder.

Two other arrests were made after Oropesa's. Divina Lamar Nava - Oropesa's domestic partner - was charged with hindering apprehension of a felon, and according to the DA, she was at the scene when Oropesa was arrested and is accused of helping him.

One of the suspect's friends, Domingo Castilla, was also arrested on a possession of marijuana charge. He is also suspected of helping the alleged shooter flee the neighborhood.

Initial reports following the nighttime shooting painted a picture of Oropesa's neighbors - a family of ten all living together - asking him to stop firing his weapon because they were trying to get a baby to fall asleep.

Oropesa, who was known to fire his gun in his yard often, replied 'I'll do what I want in my front yard' and shot five members of the family with an AR-15 before fleeing.

When police arrived at the scene, they found two adult women dead at the front of the house, and a man lying dead in the living room.

Law enforcement authorities removing bodies from a scene where five people were shot the night before Saturday, April 29, 2023

Daniel Enrique Laso Guzman, nine years old, was the youngest victim of Oropesa

The alleged shooter was flanked by armed law enforcement officers as he walked into the court house Thursday morning

Two of Oropesa's victims, who were living in the house next door to his

Sonia Guzman and Daniel Enrique Lazo were another two of Oropesa's victims. Daniel was just nine years old when he was killed

Diana Velasquez was another one of Oropesa's victims. All the victims were said to be from Honduras, and were living ten to the house

Oropesa was said to have been drunk at the time of the shooting

Two other arrests were made after Oropesa's - his domestic partner and his friend - both of whom are believed to have attempted to help him flee

The two women were covered in blood, according to San Jacinto County Sheriff Greg Capers, and were lying on top of two young children who survived.

All of the victims were from Honduras, according to police.

Oropesa was said to have been drunk at the time.

Reports indicate that the alleged gunman had been deported from the US four times in the last 14 years.
The woman struck and killed by a passing SUV when she tried to flag down cars after running out of fuel on a freeway has been identified.

Ebony Storm-Somerville, 26, died from her injuries on the Kwinana Freeway, south of Perth, after being run over around 10.40pm on Thursday.

She and a female friend were traveling north to Perth from Collie when their blue Holden Commodore ran out out of fuel near Mandjoogoordap Road at Stake Hill.

Ebony Storm-Somerville, 26, died from her injuries on the Kwinana Freeway south of Perth after being run over around 10.40pm on June 29.

The two women were travelling to Perth in a blue Holden Commodore (pictured) before the car ran out of fuel at Stake Hill on the Kwinana Freeway

Ms Storm-Somerville was fatally struck by a red Mitsubishi Outlander after she got out of the Commodore, which was sitting in the emergency shoulder.

It is understood the two friends were waving other cars down for help on the northbound carriageway of the freeway.

The second woman, in her 20s, who is believed to have been a passenger, was taken by St John WA services to Rockingham Hospital for observation.

The driver of the Mitsubishi was uninjured.

Powerful tributes flooded onto social media for the 'angelic' Ms Storm-Somerville as loved ones started a GoFundMe page.

Organiser Storm Mclarty described Ms Storm-Somerville as a person full of 'warmth' and a 'free spirit'.

'People felt good in her company and she naturally stole your heart, young or old, any gender, any race, you could not avoid being drawn by her magnetic energy,' Ms Mclarty wrote.

'May angels walk beside us all as we lay our precious angel Ebony Storm to rest.'

Another friend wrote that Ms Storm-Somerville was 'my beautiful best mate'.

Ms Storm-Somerville got out of the car to flag down passing cars for help when she was struck by a red Mitsubishi Outlander (pictured)

Powerful tributes flooded onto social media for the 'angelic' and free-spirited Ms Storm-Somerville

'You were somebody to everybody you encountered in your short beautiful life,' she added.

A man wrote her sudden death had affected him deeply, leaving him full of uncertainty.

'Ill admit I dont know what to do. You were there and now youre not. I dont know what to say or do.'

'Fly high our beautiful sister,' wrote another.

Another added 'just think about the fun times mate its all we can do.'

The GoFundMe was set up on Sunday morning to help pay for Ms Storm-Somerville's funeral and wake.

It has a target of $15,000 and had yet to raise its first $1,000 by Sunday afternoon.

Major crash investigators urged anyone who saw the horror accident or the female pedestrian in the area to contact Crimestoppers.

Main Roads WA said people who break down on the freeway should stay inside their vehicles where possible with their seatbelt on and hazard lights flashing.
A man has died after he was pulled unconscious from the water at a popular Sydney beach.

The man, aged in his 40s, had been swimming at Curl Curl Beach, on Sydney's northern beaches, on Sunday morning.

Tragedy struck before he was pulled unconscious from the water at 11am later that morning.

A man has died after he was pulled unconscious from the water at a popular Sydney beach

Tragedy struck before he was pulled unconscious from the water at 11am later that morning

Paramedics rushed the man to Royal North Shore Hospital in a critical condition.

He later died at the hospital.

Police will prepare a report of the coroner.

Emergency services were seen on the sand attempting to perform CPR on the swimmer after he was pulled from the water.

Shocked bystanders watched on as paramedics tried in vain to save the man.

An abandoned boogie board and towel were seen left on the sand after the man was lifted into an ambulance and taken to hospital.
Embattled United Airlines is offering furious passengers air miles to try and convince them to stay loyal to the company following a week of cancelation chaos.

United is offering 30,000 free air miles to those who were forced to spend nights in airports and to those who didn't get to their destinations at all.

On top of the hundreds of cancelations and delays last week, United was also scrambling to save face after it emerged that the carrier's CEO, Scott Kirby, flew privately from New York to Denver, while paying customers were left sleeping on airport floors.

'Taking a private jet was the wrong decision because it was insensitive to our customers who were waiting to get home,' Kirby said in a statement issued by the airline.

Passengers were unimpressed, with one tweeting a screenshot of his $10 million salary - significantly more than the CEOs of Delta or American Airlines.

Scott Kirby, the CEO of United Airlines. His airline is offering air miles as an apology to passengers stranded this week

Passengers have been offered 30,000 free air miles in a bid to try and keep them flying

Passengers are seen in Newark waiting for their rescheduled flight. Newark, a United hub, was the worst affected airport this week, and United the worst airline

United Airlines has been slammed by families who have been stranded at airports across the nation as this week's travel 'flightmare' spilled into Friday

Some travelers were told Monday that they may not be able to get on flights until Thursday

In a letter to those worst affected by this week's chaos, Chief Customer Officer Linda Jojo said: 'I know this week was hard. Really bad weather, air traffic control issues and some of our own operational challenges led to a rough experience for you and many of our customers.

'Providing these miles is the right thing to do. After all, you put your trust in us and expect more,' Jojo added.

United have not said how many people will receive the miles.

On Saturday, Kirby said the airline plans to make changes in flight operations to avoid weather-related disruptions ahead of the Fourth of July holiday travel.

'While we work to control the things that are within our control, we must also do a better job of planning against the things that are outside our control so that we can be in a position to recover more quickly,' he said.

United Airlines is also working with Port Authority of New York and New Jersey to get more gates, Kirby said, adding that the company would have to further change or reduce its schedule give itself more spare gates and buffer, particularly during storm season.

'Airlines can plan for things like hurricanes, sub-zero temperatures and snowstorms, but United has never seen an extended limited operating environment like the one we saw this past week at Newark,' Kirby said in a note to employees.

United has been the worst affected airline in this week of chaos

Earlier this week Kirby engaged in a war of words with the Transport Secretary, Pete Buttigieg, over the chaos.

Kirby said in a memo to employees that the FAA had 'failed' the airline over the weekend because of a lack of adequate staffing at air traffic control centers.

But Buttigieg hit back in an interview with CNN, saying the airline 'has some internal issues they need to work through.'

'I want to be very clear, air traffic control issues are not the number one issue causing cancellations and delays,' he said on Thursday.

'They're not even the number two issue. All the data, including industry's own data is very clear on that.'

Buttigieg singled out United for its delays, saying other airlines were handling the situation better than them.

'With the exception of United, airlines have recovered to a more typical cancellation/delay rate as of this morning, after the severe weather earlier this week,' Buttigieg tweeted.

United Airlines has also been slammed by passengers who have been stranded at airports across the nation as this week's travel 'flightmare' spilled into Friday - ahead of the Fourth of July holiday weekend.

More than 4,000 U.S. flights were delayed on Friday and nearly 400 canceled.

It came amid a hectic week for travelers across the country, with nearly 7,000 flight cancelations since Monday.

NEW YORK: More than 800 U.S. flights delayed today as the Fourth of July holiday weekend begins. People travel through JFK Airport Terminal 4 on Friday ahead of the July 4th holidays

Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg took aim at the company, singling it out for its delays and cancellations

Moreover, there have been 35,000 delays this week as airports have struggled to manage travelers.

TSA advised Americans to 'pack some patience' as they try to get to their holiday destinations.

'As we approach the July 4th holiday travel period, we're expecting record travel volumes, TSA is staffed & ready to handle the increased volumes with technologies & resources for improved security effectiveness, efficiency, & passenger experience at security checkpoints,' TSA administrator David Pekoske said on Thursday.

'I encourage travelers to pack a bag that starts empty to ensure you don't have any prohibited items, arrive early, have your ID out and ready, and pack some patience.'
A man has been hospitalised after he was stabbed with a knife so brutally it snapped off at the hilt leaving the blade inside of his abdomen.

Police rushed to the corner of Ann and Constance street, in Brisbane's Fortitude Valley, about 3:30am on Sunday where they found the 21-year-old with the handle of the blade next to him.

He received first aid at the scene before being taken to hospital in a stable condition.

Police believe the man was robbed of a gold chain during the attack as he left a venue.

He was one of three victims in a spate of knife attacks in the Safe Night Precinct on Sunday morning, with another 21-year-old and a 23-year-old also being targeted in suspected robberies carried out by a gang of 'four or five'.

A 17-year-old accused of being one of the knifeman has since been charged with one count each of robbery with violence, grievous bodily harm and stealing after allegedly attempting to flee the scene.

He was one of three victims in a spate of knife attacks in the Safe Night Precinct on Sunday morning, with another 21-year-old and a 23-year-old also being targeted in suspected robberies carried out by a gang of 'four or five'. Pictured: Brisbane's Fortitude Valley

Detective Superintendent Andrew Massingham on Sunday revealed revealed the extent of the terrifying incident.

'The handle of the knife had broken off during the attack and remained inside the victim, that was a large knife,' he said.

'What we've been able to ascertain since that time is that a group of four to five men donned masks and balaclavas and then set about ... robbing individual persons as they left licensed venues.'

The second 21-year-old victim entered Fortitude Valley Police Station with a 'fairly major' stab wound to his back at about 3:20am and was rushed to hospital with a collapsed lung.

The 23-year-old suffered significant wounds to his right forearm and face.

Det Supt Massingham said the knife gang 'acted in concert together' in an attempt to 'rob people in the early hours of the morning while they were vulnerable, together, while armed, in company, for the purpose of financial gain'.

'Whether they are a gang or a group of persons with the same motives at this stage is unclear.'

Detective Superintendent Andrew Massingham (pictured) said a group of men wearing masks were targeting people as they left venues in order to rob them

He confirmed police have been instructed to strenuously make an application for bail to be denied for the accused 17-year-old.

'These four to five males that are still outstanding, I have requested all available detectives in the Brisbane city area to work around the clock until we locate them,' Det Supt Massingham said.

'That will only be a matter of time and Im confident in the coming days we will have all four or five or those males in handcuffs.'

Anyone in the area at the time who witnessed anything unusual is urged to contact Queensland Police or CrimeStoppers to help fill 'gaps' in police timelines.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky warned on Saturday that a 'serious threat' remained at the Russian-occupied Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant.

He said Russia was 'technically ready' to provoke a localized explosion at the facility, citing Ukrainian intelligence as the source.

'There is a serious threat because Russia is technically ready to provoke a local explosion at the station, which could lead to a (radiation) release,' Mr Zelensky told a news conference alongside visiting Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez.

He gave no further details. Ukrainian military intelligence has previously said Russian troops had mined the plant.

It comes after Russia launched an overnight drone attack on Kyiv and the surrounding region after a 12-day break.

A view shows the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant, in the course of Russia-Ukraine conflict outside Enerhodar in the Zaporizhzhia region

A man is seen carried away on a strecther by people in hazmat suits as rescues and police officers attend anti-radiation drills for case of an emergency situation at Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant, amid Russia's attack on Ukraine

A view shows Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant from the bank of Kakhovka Reservoir near the town of Nikopol after the Nova Kakhovka dam breach

Mr Zelensky called for greater international attention to the plant, Europe's largest civil nuclear facility, and urged sanctions on Russia's state nuclear company Rosatom.

He later held a meeting of the top military command and nuclear power officials at another of Ukraine's five nuclear plants, in Rivne, in the northwest of the country.

'The key issues discussed were the security of our northern regions and our measures to strengthen them,' Mr Zelensky said in his nightly video address, standing in front of the Rivne plant.

Mr Zelensky's trip to Rivne was a rare journey for the Ukraine leader to an area relatively far from the fighting but it is near the border with Belarus - where Russia's Wagner mercenaries have a deal to go after last week's aborted uprising.

Wagner leader Yevgeny Prigozhin was offered the option of resettling in Belarus, on Ukraine's northern border.

Energoatom, Ukraine's nuclear power authority, said on Friday it had conducted two days of exercises simulating the effects of an attack on the Zaporizhzhia plant.

Russia's U.N. ambassador, Vassily Nebenzia, issued a statement describing the Ukrainian allegations as 'simply preposterous'.

Russia has dismissed any suggestion it plans to attack or sabotage the Zaporizhzhia plant. Each side accuses the other of shelling near the facility.

Mr Sanchez said his visit to the Ukrainian capital was meant to underscore his support for Ukraine as Spain kicks off the six-month rotating EU presidency. Spain would provide an additional 55 million euro ($60 million) financial package for Ukraine to help the economy and small businesses, he said.

The Zaporizhzhia plant, located near the city of Enerhodar in southern Ukraine, has been occupied by Russia since shortly after Moscow's invasion in February 2022.

As part of a response strategy to a potential nuclear disaster at the planet, Ukrainian civil defence and emergency teams started practising safety drills.

Civilians were given details for gathering points, the issuing of iodine tablets and evacuation routes on social media in case of sabotage, the Times reported.

Specialist teams were also seen to be practising decontamination procedures.

An explosion of a drone is seen in the sky over the city during a Russian drone strike, amid Russia's attack on Ukraine, in Kyiv, Ukraine July 2

People in hazmat suits are seen by fire engines as rescuers and police officers attend an anti-radiation drill in case of an emergency situation at the Zaporizhzhia plant

A man is seen on a stretcher as people in hazmat suits do testing amid rescues and police officers attending anti-radiation drills at the plant

And last night, Russia launched an overnight drone attack on Kyiv and the surrounding region after a 12-day break, with air defence systems destroying all the weapons on their approach, Ukrainian military officials said on Sunday.

The country's air force said that the attack included eight Iranian-made Shahed drones and three cruise missiles which were shot down.

'Another enemy attack on Kyiv,' Serhiy Popko, a colonel general who heads Kyiv's military administration, said in a post on the Telegram channel.

Three private houses were damaged as a result of falling drone debris in the Kyiv region, injuring one person, the military head of the region, Ruslan Kravchenko, said on his Facebook page.

Witnesses heard blasts resembling the sound of air defence systems hitting targets. There was no immediate information about the scale of the attack.

Kyiv, its surrounding region and a number of central and eastern Ukraine's regions were under air raid alerts for about an hour after 2 a.m. local time.

A Ukrainian emergency worker wearing radiation protection suit attends training in Zaporizhzhia, Ukraine, on June 29

Kyiv, its surrounding region and a number of central and eastern Ukraine's regions were under air raid alerts for about an hour after 2 a.m. local time following an overnight drone

And earlier this week, the GUR, Ukraine's defence intelligence division, said Ukrainian staff members were advised to leave by Wednesday by representatives for Russian state-owned nuclear firm, Rosatom - which has been in control of the plant since its occupation.

According to comments alleged by the chief of Ukraine's military intelligence service Kyrylo Budanov, Putin's troops previously planted explosives at four of the plant's six power units and cooling systems.

The claims were backed by President Zelensky, who this week warned Russia was planning a 'terrorist attack' on the nuclear power station that has been under Moscow's control since March last year.

But the warnings have been branded 'pure lies' by Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov as he dismissed Ukrainian claims the Kremlin was planning some sort of 'provocation' involving the contested nuclear plant.
An 18-year-old woman and a 20-year-old man were killed and 28 people were hurt - including 14 minors - when at least two people started shooting at a Baltimore block party Sunday morning.

Police said at least two people fired shots, but they were still investigating to determine the total figure. It's not known if the shooting was targeted or people firing indiscriminately.

'This was a reckless, cowardly act that happened here and has permanently altered many lives and cost two people their lives,' Mayor Brandon Scott said Sunday afternoon. 'I want those responsible to hear me, hear me very clearly: We will not stop until we find you. And we will find you.'

The shooting took place just after 12:30 a.m. at a block party in the Brooklyn Homes area in the southern part of the city, Acting Baltimore Police Commissioner Richard Worley said.

Hundreds of people gathered in the area for an event called 'Brooklyn Day,' a witness said. Another witness told FOX45 News that they heard 20 to 30 shots fired.

'They just kept going off,' the witness said.

Two people are dead and dozens injured after mass shooting in Baltimore overnight

Police were hunting on Sunday morning for the people involved in the shooting that left an 18-year-old woman and 20-year-old man dead

Nine victims were transported by ambulance and 20 victims walked into area hospitals with injuries from the shooting, Worley said.

Three victims were in critical condition on Sunday morning after the shooting. It's not known if they remained critical as of Sunday afternoon.

'Our detectives are currently working an extensive crime scene. The two deceased victims we have are both adults. We have three other victims who are in critical condition. Our hearts and prayers are going out to the families and friends of the victims, as well as the community and our entire city,' Worley said.

Hours after the shooting, a number of officers remained at the scene, working behind police tape amid densely packed two-story housing blocks. Folding tables and plastic cups were scattered around the scene, apparently left behind when people ran from the gunshots.

One witness, Lakell Nelson, 54, told the Baltimore Sun that during the block party people had been mistaking the sound of fireworks. But it wasn't a false alarm when the shooting began.

'The shots were just going on and on and on,' Nelson said, then added two women walked up to her and stated they had been shot.

'I kinda didn't believe them at first because they were walking up the street. I said, 'Show me,' and the girl was like, 'I was shot in my butt,' she said. 'When she turned around, I saw the hole through her shorts.'

Nelson helped the women into her car and drove to the nearest hospital.

'When I pulled up to the door of the hospital, my car was almost getting ready to be inside the hospital, because I was determined to get those babies in that hospital,' Nelson said.

Nine victims were transported by ambulance and 20 victims walked into area hospitals

Debris from the block party gathering that ended in a mass shooting filled the street on Sunday

Authorities said the crime scene was extensive and that it will take some time for detectives to investigate.

A tow truck operator removes a vehicle with multiple bullet holes. Witnesses said they heard 20 to 30 shots during the shooting

No arrests were made after the shooting and police asked anyone with information to come forward

Officers yet to determine a motive but said they are reviewing video footage and talking to witnesses to try to identify suspects

Fellow witness Terry Brown was standing outside his home when the shooting started. He said people ran from the courtyard, jumping fences and calling for loved ones.

'They were running for their lives,' Brown said.

Brown saw one girl who was shot and neighbors held compression on her body. Other victims were loaded into cars and taken to hospitals.

'It was so many kids. It was chaos,' Brown said. 'Parents were running around looking for their children, hollering and screaming, and don't know if their children has a bullet in them.'

An University of Maryland Medical System spokesperson said 12 people received treatment and Shock Trauma and four wen to the center's pediatric emergency department.

A MedStar Health official said 19 people were treated and all but one had been released. Nine were stabilized and transferred to other trauma centers.

Acting Commissioner Richard Worley for the Baltimore Police Department said officers had received numerous calls reporting a shooting just after 12.30am

Mayor of Baltimore Brandon Scott said: 'I want those responsible to hear me and hear me very clearly. We will not stop until we find you and we will find you'

Investigators could be seen combing the area for evidence at the scene of the shooting as debris from the block party filled the parking lot

A police officer moves a scooter in the area of a mass shooting incident in the Southern District of Baltimore the morning after gunfire left two dead

Authorities said the crime scene was extensive and it would take some time for detectives to investigate.

'Treat this as if it were your family,' Scott said. 'How you would want people to treat it if you were mourning, if this was your neighborhood, if this was an event in your community that this happened at. We want you to treat it that way because that's how we have to treat each other as Baltimoreans.'

Worley said police were not told in advance about the large party. The department would investigate what officers did once they determined there was a gathering.

'If we made mistakes, we will fix them and move forward so it never happens again,' Worley said. 'But again, we did not know that this event was occurring.'

The violence comes as federal prosecutors in Baltimore this week touted their efforts to reduce violent crime in the city. Police have reported nearly 130 homicides and close to 300 shootings so far this year, though that's down from the same time last year. Authorities have vowed to crack down aggressively on repeat violent offenders.
A champion bodyboarder has died while taking part in a competition at Curl Curl on Sydney's northern beaches.

Mauricio Abrunhosa, 48, was pulled unconscious from the water about 11am on Sunday morning and despite desperate efforts to revive him, he could not be saved.

One week earlier announced to friends and family on Instagram that he was named over 35s champion and a runner up in the over 45s division in the NSW bodyboard state titles.

'It feels good. This sport still gives me a natural high that I love,' he wrote in his haunting final social media post. 'This sport continues to give me joy.'

A week after that triumph, a fellow competitor saw that Mr Abrunhosa, who was known as Moz to his friends, was in trouble in the water.

Mr Abrunhosa (pictured), 48, was taking part in a competition at Curl Curl on Sydney's northern beaches when tragedy struck

He was unconscious as he was taken from the surf to the beach, where an off duty nurse treated him before paramedics arrived.

After being given CPR, Mr Abrunhosa was rushed to Royal North Shore Hospital in a critical condition, where he later died.

'We're unsure if (Mr Abrunhosa) fell off his board (and) hit his head, or if it was a medical episode,' Tracey Hare-Boyd of Surf Lifesaving NSW told 9News.

The northern beaches local, who was a member of the Sydney Bodyboarder's Club, was said by friends to be 'highly experienced, with a great appreciation for nature'.

Members of the club have been deeply shocked by the tragedy and are trying to come to terms with what happened.

Two-time NSW bodyboarding champion Mauricio Abrunhosa (pictured) has died after being pulled unconscious from the water

He was unconscious as he was taken from the surf to the beach, where an off duty nurse treated him before paramedics arrived (pictured)

Mauricio Abrunhosa (pictured) said bodyboarding 'gives me a natural high that I love'

The northern beaches local (pictured), who was a member of the Sydney Bodyboarder's Club, was said by friends to be 'highly experienced, with a great appreciation for nature'

'I think the whole community feels a very deep (loss), and sad, because it could be any of us,' a local woman said.

An abandoned bodyboard and towel were seen left on the sand after Mr Abrunhosa was lifted into an ambulance and taken to hospital.

A report will be prepared for the coroner.
The prime suspect in Madeleine McCann's disappearance had a lock picking kit that could unlock any security door, a witness has claimed.

Madeleine disappeared from her family's holiday apartment in the Algarve resort of Praia da Luz in May 2007 - just a few days before her fourth birthday. Convicted child sex attacker Christian Brueckner has become the prime suspect in her case.

Brueckner bragged about the burglary toolkit which he would use to 'break into holiday resorts, hotels and holiday homes to steal from tourists', a former friend has told The Sun on Sunday.

Helge Busching, who is in German police witness protection, suggested that Brueckner 'came through the door' of the McCanns' holiday apartment, raising doubts over the official theory that Madeleine's kidnapper crept in through a window.

German police are reportedly 'electrified' by the discovery of the lock pick kit and also are investigating the possibility that Brueckner used car paint solvent to sedate the young girl.

Brueckner, a convicted paedophile who is serving a prison sentence for rape, was publicly named as a suspect in 2020 in Madeleine's disappearance and was declared an official suspect last year. He has denied any involvement in her abduction.

The prime suspect in Madeleine McCann's disappearance had a lock picking kit that could unlock any security door, a witness has claimed. Madeleine is pictured above

Christian Brueckner (pictured) bragged about the burglary toolkit which he would use to 'break into holiday resorts, hotels and holiday homes to steal from tourists', a former friend has

Busching, who claims to have met Brueckner a year before Madeleine vanished, said he found the tool kit in the suspect's Algarve home after he and a friend, Manfred Seyfreth, decided to ransack the place.

He told The Sun: 'I knew from Christian that he uses tools to break into holiday resorts, hotels and holiday homes to steal from tourists.'

The petty criminal recalled seeing passports, cameras, suitcases and various items carried by tourists in the property, adding the he 'also found a lock pick set'.

Busching claims he kept the kit - which he says can be used to 'pick any lock, including security locks' - and later gave it to police in Germany.

The kit is understood to be made by Dino which touts that its products 'ensure easier access into the most restrictive European keyways fast'. It reportedly includes 14 black stainless steel picks that are each designed for a specific door type.

Police in Portugal have always claimed that Madeleine's abductor broke into the apartment through a window. They allege he likely left with the child through a door or by climbing back out the window.

But when asked how Brueckner entered the home, Busching asserted: 'Through the door. Easily. He can open any door.'

According to the newspaper, sources close to the investigation say German police believe the window theory is misleading.

The insider claimed investigators were 'electrified' by the discovery of the lock pick kit and argued the 'evidence is now very important to them'.

The source added: 'It confirmed a suspicion that they'd had for a long time - that Christian Brueckner entered the apartment through the door.'

Madeleine McCann disappeared from her family's holiday apartment (pictured) in the Algarve resort of Praia da Luz in May 2007 - just a few days before her fourth birthday

Helge Busching, (pictured) who is in German police witness protection, has suggested that Brueckner 'came through the door' of the McCanns' holiday apartment, raising doubts over the official theory that Madeleine's kidnapper crept in through a window

Police were also told that Brueckner, a mechanic, had access to car paint solvent. They are now investigating a theory that he used the substance to sedate Madeleine.

Busching last week also claimed that Brueckner had once confessed to kidnapping Madeline, Bild reported.

He alleged that Brueckner told him: 'She didn't scream.'

Busching claims Brueckner issued the confession at the illegal Dragon Festival held in the southern Spanish mountain town of Orgiva a year after Madeleine vanished.

He also alleged that Brueckner turned up to the festival in an American campervan that he lived in between early 2007 and 2008. Busching says the van is not the Tiffin Allegro van police seized a few years back.

He insists the vehicle Brueckner drove to the the festival - known for its techno music, booze and drugs - was a Winnebago and believes that if police were able to track down the van, they would find traces of Madeleine's DNA.

Busching says he knows that Brueckner abducted Madeleine, adding that 'another witness knows it as well'.

He claims he advised the suspect to come clean but says Brueckner 'will never do that' because he is 'too stubborn' and 'assumes police cannot prove anything'.

The witness added that he has been pressed by Brueckner's lawyers to retract his allegations has been forced into witness protection for the last four years.

Last month German forensic experts searched a reservoir 30 miles from Praia da Luz as part of their ongoing investigation. They are understood to have taken soil samples for analysis

Investigators are pictured at the Barragem do Arade reservoir, in the Algave, Portugal, as searches continued into the disappearance of Madeleine McCann

Madeleine vanished from a rented holiday apartment in Praia da Luz in Portugal on May 3, 2007, during a family holiday.

Her parents Kate and Gerry McCann, from Rothley, Leicestershire, spearheaded a high-profile campaign for information about her disappearance.

Reports claim that phone records place Brueckner in the town on the night she vanished and that his yellow and white Volkswagen Westfalia campervan was spotted near the Algarve resort.

Last month German forensic experts searched a reservoir 30 miles from Praia da Luz as part of their ongoing investigation. They are understood to have taken soil samples for analysis.

Brueckner and Busching, who is also German, both previously lived in Portugal and were said to have been involved in petty theft.

Brueckner has claimed the pair have not spoken since 2007, when they discussed a drug deal, and has denied Buschings claims about their conversation in 2008, saying they were not even worthy of comment.

Madeleine's parents Kate and Gerry McCann, (pictured in 2012) from Rothley, Leicestershire, spearheaded a high-profile campaign for information about her disappearance after their young daughter vanished in 2007

Busching also claims to have seen videotapes which allegedly showed Brueckner sexually abusing an elderly woman and a teenage girl in Portgual.

In 2019 Brueckner was convicted in a German court of the 2005 rape of a 72-year-old American woman at her home in Portugal, close to Praia da Luz, and he is serving a seven-year sentence. Busching reportedly contacted British police about his former friend after he was arrested in Greece in 2017 over an alleged smuggling ring.

Madeleines disappearance was initially investigated by police in Portugal, with support from officers in the UK. The Metropolitan Police took over the investigation in 2011 after the Portuguese operation was shelved.

But more than three years after linking Brueckner to Madeleines disappearance, he has still not been charged regarding her abduction as prosecutors do not have enough evidence.
Tasmanian Police have deployed a helicopter in their search for a Belgian backpacker who has been missing for two weeks.

A break in the challenging weather conditions allowed search and rescue crews to use the chopper to search the area where Celine Cremer went missing on June 17.

The 31-year-old was reported missing on Monday after concerned family and friends raised the alarm.

She was last seen in the small town of Waratah, about 200km west of Launceston in Tasmania.

Police have deployed a helicopter in the search for 31-year-old Belgian backpacker, Celine Cremer (pictured), after she went missing in Tasmanian bushland two weeks ago

On Tuesday, police found her white Honda CRV in the carpark of the Philosopher Falls Trail which opened a new line of investigation.

Officers are hoping to speak with a bushwalker who may have been in the area where a missing Belgian backpacker's car was found.

Search crews continued to look for Ms Cremer over the weekend, with the State Emergency Service using all terrain vehicles to search a number of tracks around Philosopher Falls on Saturday.

Due to recent weather conditions in the Tasmanian bush, police believe their chances of finding Ms Cremer alive are slim.

Police located Ms Cremer's white Honda CRV (pictured) in a carpark at Philosopher Falls Trail, about 200km west of Launceston, on Tuesday

Investigators received a number of calls from members of the public who accessed the walking track between June 17 and 26.

Police are now investigating whether it is possible that Ms Cremer's white Honda CRV was in the carpark of the Philosopher Falls earlier than June 20.

'Police would like to speak to a walker who was at Philosopher Falls around 2.30pm on Sunday, June 18,' Tasmanian Police said in a statement.

'This person is not in any trouble, we urge you to make contact as you may be able to assist us in establishing Ms Cremer's movements prior to her going missing.'

Police believe the chances of finding Ms Cremer alive are slim due to unfavourable weather in the Tasmanian bush

The person is being urged to contact police on 131 444.

Police are continuing to investigate Ms Cremer's movements from 17 June.

Inspector Anthea Maingay said the search crews had focused their efforts around Philosopher Falls.

'We're continuing our efforts to locate Celine ... we have received expert medical advice that indicates the recent weather conditions were not survivable for the length of time that Celine is thought to have been exposed in the wilderness,' she said.

'Our thoughts remain with Celine's family, and we are continuing our efforts to locate her in an attempt for them to have some answers at this tragic time.'

Police are searching for another walker who was on the trail at about 2:30pm on June 19

Police believe that the Belgian woman was only equipped for a light walk and became lost.

The young traveller had spent some months in Australia and posted on social media about her travels.

'Australia is indeed so beautiful! And so big,' she wrote to a friend on a Facebook post.

The Philosopher Falls walking track at Waratah remains closed to the public.
A man has been charged in connection with alleged threatening and abusive behaviour after transgender double rapist Isla Bryson claimed to have suffered from 'hate crime' and 'abuse' while in prison.

Bryson, from Clydebank, was jailed for eight years in February for raping two women.

The attacks were carried out in 2016 and 2019 while Bryson, who was born Adam Graham, was living as a man.

Bryson, who is in HMP Edinburgh, claimed: 'I'm not doing too good because of abuse from the staff members, all because I am transgender, and other prisoners too.

'This jail is full of transphobic people. The police are involved because of the abuse to do with my gender. People won't stop being transphobic,' Bryson said in a letter sent to the Sunday Mail.

Bryson, from Clydebank, was jailed for eight years in February for raping two women

A man has been charged with alleged threatening and abusive behaviour after transgender double rapist Isla Bryson (pictured as Adam Graham) claimed to have suffered 'abuse' while in prison

Bryson (pictured in January), from Clydebank, was jailed for eight years in February for raping two women

A Police Scotland spokesman said: 'Around 11am on Thursday 8 June 2023, we received a report of a hate crime at HMP Edinburgh.

'A 24-year-old man has been charged in connection with threatening and abusive behaviour. A report will be submitted to the Procurator Fiscal.'

During sentencing in February, Lord Scott said Bryson 'presents a particularly significant risk to any woman with whom you form a relationship', and handed the rapist eight years in a men's jail.

Bryson was initially remanded to Cornton Vale, Scotland's only all-female prison in Stirling, but was later moved.

Bryson's case sparked outrage forcing an intervention from the Scottish Government.

The then first minister, Nicola Sturgeon, told MSPs that 'this prisoner will not be incarcerated at Cornton Vale women's prison', with Bryson moved to the male prison estate.

Ms Sturgeon made clear at the time that there is 'no automatic right for a trans woman convicted of a crime to serve their sentence in a female prison'.

Speaking in February she said that each case is 'subject to rigorous individual risk assessment' in which the 'safety of other prisoners is paramount'.

On Thursday June 8 police recieved a report of a hate crime against Bryson at HMP Edinburgh (pictured)

Afterwards it was announced that the Scottish Prison Service was carrying out a review of management of trans prisoners as part of its gender identity and gender reassignment policy review.

The Scottish Government confirmed in February that until the review and other work is complete, no transgender person in prison who has a history of violence against women will be moved from a male prison to the female prison estate.

In addition, newly convicted or remanded transgender prisoners will initially be placed in a prison in line with their sex at birth, it said.

The double rapist is currently serving eight years at HMP Edinburgh, also known as Saughton Prison, which was built in 1920 and holds around 900 prisoners per day.
Tributes have been paid to 'true public servant' Lord Bob Kerslake, after his family announced he has died.

The former head of the civil service, 68, died on Saturday after 'a short battle with cancer', his 'devastated' sister Ros Kerslake CBE said in a post on Twitter this morning.

Senior Labour Party figures including its leader Sir Keir Starmer, deputy leader Angela Rayner, shadow health secretary Wes Streeting, and mayor of London Sadiq Khan were among those who paid their respects to the crossbench peer.

He was nominated for a peerage by David Cameron and ennobled following his retirement as permanent secretary at the Department for Communities and Local Government, with the peerage was conferred by the late Queen in 2015.

Lord Kerslake was also a chairman of King's College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust in south London but he quit the role in 2017, warning that the health service could not continue 'staggering along' under the current funding levels.

Lord Bob Kerslake, who has died aged 68, attending the UK Theatre Awards 2019 at The Guildhall on October 27, 2019

The former head of the civil service, 68, died on Saturday after 'a short battle with cancer', his 'devastated' sister Ros Kerslake CBE said in a post on Twitter this morning

Sadiq Khan hailed him as 'a true public servant'. 'His kindness and commitment to improving our city and country will always be remembered,' he added

Announcing the news on Twitter, Ros Kerslake wrote: 'My brother Bob (Lord Robert Kerslake) died yesterday after a short battle with cancer. We are all devastated.'

In another tweet, Eleanor Kerslake added: 'Unfortunately my wonderful dad Bob Kerslake died yesterday.

'We are all devastated.

'Dad had a few jobs in his time but the most important to him was being a truly fantastic husband, dad, brother, son and granddad.'

'I'm very sorry to learn that Bob Kerslake has died,' Sir Keir tweeted on Sunday.

'Bob was a talented public servant, utmost professional, and a good man.

'He was rightly respected across Westminster for his experience and wisdom, and I'm grateful for his recent contributions to the Labour Party.

'Sincere condolences to his family.'

Sir Starmer tweeted: 'Im very sorry to learn that Bob Kerslake has died. Bob was a talented public servant, utmost professional, and a good man.

Lord Bob Kerslake joins members of the review panel into the Manchester Arena Bomb attack at a press conference at University of Salford conference centre in March 2018

In another tweet, Eleanor Kerslake added: 'Unfortunately my wonderful dad Bob Kerslake died yesterday. We are all devastated'

On Twitter, Sir Starmer wrote: 'Im very sorry to learn that Bob Kerslake has died. Bob was a talented public servant, utmost professional, and a good man'

'He was rightly respected across Westminster for his experience and wisdom, and Im grateful for his recent contributions to the Labour Party. Sincere condolences to his family.'

Angela Rayner also paid tribute, saying: 'So very sad to learn of the passing of Bob Kerslake. A devoted public servant, he was a good, kind and principled man, generous with his time and full of wisdom.

'My thoughts are with his family, friends and all who knew him.'

Labour veteran John McDonnell tweeted: 'Just heard the terribly sad news Bob Kerslake has died.

'I've known Bob from when he was with us at the GLC (Greater London Council).

'He was a true public servant of the highest integrity, dedicating his life to caring for people & tackling inequality wherever he found it. My condolences to his family.'

Senior Labour Party figures including its deputy leader Angela Rayner, shadow health secretary Wes Streeting, former shadow chancellor John McDonnell were among those who paid their respects

Mr Streeting said his death was 'terribly sad news'.

'Bob was such a committed and decent public servant taken far too soon,' he tweeted.

'Deepest condolences to your family and all those who knew and loved him.'

Mr Khan hailed him as 'a true public servant'.

'His kindness and commitment to improving our city and country will always be remembered,' he added.

'My thoughts are with his family and friends today.'

Lord Kerslake also chaired the independent review into Greater Manchester's preparedness and response to the Manchester Arena bombing in 2017.
A South Korean cult has been accused of recruiting vulnerable young Australian women at shopping centres to be brainwashed and then sent abroad.

The victims were told they were the 'spiritual brides' of Jung Myung Seok (JMS), the self-proclaimed second coming of Jesus Christ and messiah of the Providence church he founded in 1978.

But JMS is a convicted rapist and the women were sent to his Wolmyeongdong compound not for any spiritual reasons, but to allegedly be sexually assaulted.

The recruiters are reportedly told to find tall, slim white women for JMS, and two Australian survivors, Liz and Amy (not their real names) have spoken out to warn others to be aware they could be targeted too.

Amy was recruited while on her way to meet a friend to go bowling at Melbourne Central shopping centre, she told Channel 7's Spotlight program.

'All of a sudden, somebody tapped me on my shoulder, I turned around and two girls were smiling at me ... they asked me to do a survey about my faith,' she said.

A depraved South Korean cult has been exposed as recruiting vulnerable young Australian women at shopping centres to be brainwashed and then sent abroad. Survivor Amy is pictured

Amy was 22 at that time in 2014 and had a growing interest in Christianity. The chance encounter would change her life for the worst.

'I believed that this was a almost an elevated version of Christianity because that's how they pitched it to me,' she said.

Liz had just finished Year 12 when she was approached at the Canberra Centre and thought it 'sounded really fun and exciting'.

'I was on a gap year, so I was looking to travel, I was working part-time, and I was also thinking about what I was going do with my life.

'I was in a really good position to be susceptible to psychological coercion, and they definitely took advantage of that.'

The young women attended bible study classes and lecturers and eventually moved into cult houses in Australia, where their lives were strictly controlled, including getting up at 2am every day to pray to JMS.

In time, their physical and mental resistance was worn away and the people they thought of as friends told them they were 'faith stars'.

Liz (pictured) had just finished Year 12 when she was approached at the Canberra Centre and thought it 'sounded really fun and exciting'

The phrase was a cover for the prettiest, tallest, most obedient women being brainwashed into believing they are brides of God, and therefore brides of JMS.

'It was never explained to us that that was what JMS wanted because he was sexually deviant and psychopathic,' said Liz. 'The guy is just a sick twisted predator.'

While they were still in Australia, JMS was serving a 10-year sentence for sexual violence against four Providence members after being convicted of rape in 2008.

Liz and Amy travelled to Korea to meet him in jail.

'(We were told) him being in prison for 10 years wasn't because he raped women, it's because he is saving all of mankind's souls,' Amy said.

'It made sense to me. Unfortunately, it really did.'

Liz said there was only plexiglass between them as they sat across from him in the jail.

'He came in, in just a prison jumpsuit, smiled at us, blew kisses,' she said. 'I feel sick thinking about it.'

Looking back, Liz said she was 'absolutely being groomed to be assaulted, molested, raped by him'.

Jung Myung Seok (pictured) is a convicted rapist who was sentenced to 10 years in jail

Women were sent to the Wolmyeongdong compound (pictured) not for any spiritual reasons, but to allegedly be sexually assaulted by Jung Myung Seok

Back in Australia, Liz was able to escape from Providence's clutches with the help of her mum and a cult deprogrammer who staged an intervention.

But Amy wasn't so lucky.

She went back to South Korea and stayed at the Wolmyeongdong compound, where JMS was then living, after being released from prison.

Amy said she was sexually assaulted by JMS on five occasions.

At one point she was told to go into a room with him, where there was a translator present.

She was told that she should take her clothes off and he would dress her, she said.

'After he dressed me, he went and sat down on a chair and asked me to stand in front of him and began speaking to me.

'And at that ... moment he just lifted up my skirt and put his hands into my underwear.

'And for that whole five minutes he was just talking to me  touching me,' she said.

Amy was shocked and reported what happened to a female Providence leader.

Liz is pictured in South Korea in 2011, when she went to visit Jung in prison at the organisation's request

She told the young Australian that JMS was her husband. 'Can't the husband do that kinda thing to their wife?

'It's the same here, you're the bride, you should be thankful, it's your blessing,' the woman allegedly said to Amy.

Last year, Amy and another alleged victim from Hong Kong who recorded harrowing audio of her alleged rape made allegations about JMS public.

He is now back in jail and awaiting trial on 22 counts of indecent and sexual assault.

More victims have also come forward and some of the alleged, female groomers are also facing charges.

Amy said she was threatened when she went public with her allegations against JMS.

Daily Mail Australia has contacted the church for comment.

The national domestic, family and sexual violence counselling, information and support service can be contacted at 1800RESPECT  1800 737 732
Twitter users are outraged and using the hashtag 'RIPTwitter' after owner Elon Musk announced plans to limit how many posts users can see.

Musk tweeted Saturday morning informing the number of tweets a user is permitted to view in a day on his platform. His motive, he explained was ' to address extreme levels of data scraping and system manipulation.'

Users who chalk up the $8 a month to become a verified user can view up to 6,000 daily tweets. Unverified users can see up to 600 tweets a day, and new unverified accounts can see up to 300 tweets a day.

After Musk enforced the new limits, more than 7,000 users in the United States reported glitches and outages on the social media platform and created the hashtag.

Multiple users have posted memes or threatened to leave the platform over the limits, saying they were done with Twitter.

Billionaire Twitter boss Elon Musk has created 'temporary' limits on users who refuse to pay him

A screenshot shows what a user experiences on the social media platform with the new rules. Many users were outraged at the move and created a 'RIPTwitter' hashtag in response

A screenshot of some of the fury many users are feeling as they threaten to leave the platform over the limits

One user wrote, with a picture of a Twitter gravestone, that: 'It was great while it lasted. But Musk has really screwed the 40 billion pooch.'

While another user threatened to leave the site altogether stating, 'at this point, I'll just live with no social media, might be a blessing in disguise.'

One meme posted on the site showed a gravestone and listed Twitter's death date as 2023 and the cause being 'Elon Musk.'

One user tweeted 'Why did y'all let him cook!!!'

Some users even made reference to Musk's other business, Tesla cars

The hashtag 'RIPTwitter' was all over the social-media site after outrage by users and some of the new rules

Posters on Twiter have complained about the new rules and some said it has prevented them from seeing their own Tweets

Memes have filled Twitter with people who are upset about the changes to limit their views

Some users begged Musk to undo the limits

Musk himself has poked fun at the reaction. His initial Tweet about the limit has been viewed more than 458million times. In response, Musk noted that 'in yet another exercise in irony this post achieved a record view count!'

The twitter owner added, 'Oh the irony of hitting limits due to complaining about view limits.'

Musk announced the limits to discourage excessive 'data scraping' and system manipulation.

Though the Twitter chief did not define 'data scrapping,' he used a similar phrase when users complained Friday when they were asked to log in to view posts on Twitter.

'We were getting data pillaged so much that it was degrading service for normal users,' Musk tweeted.

He also made note that 'several hundred organizations (maybe more) were scraping Twitter data extremely aggressively,' Mediate reported.

Musk, who referred to the sweeping change as an 'emergency measure,' later said that view numbers would increase to 800 tweets per day for those who are unverified.

Unverified users will only have access to 400 tweets while verified users will be able to view up to 8,000 per day.

Some questioned the limits and referenced Musk's free speech statements and his desire to make Twitter more open to all viewpoints

Musk posted about the limits and his Tweet on the topic has had more than 458million views

The Twitter owner has also joked about some of the reactions to his announced limits.

The limits were put in place Saturday morning, about five hours after the platform went down. The reason for Saturday's crash was not clear, but some speculated it came to a record-high number of visitors to the site.

During the crash, users complained that the site was failing to load tweets, with many only able to see posts from Friday evening.

The issue told users their 'rate limit' was exceeded or the site 'cannot retrieve tweets', leading many to slam Musk's handling of the platform as it is the latest of several mass glitches to occur under his reign.

According to online usage tracker Down Detector, Twitter saw a huge spike in outages at around 8am Eastern Time Saturday.

Users flooded the tracker site with complaints about the frustrating glitch, with many blaming Musk for the issue.

It is the third time the company has battled outages this year, after links stopped working and images didn't load for millions of users in March, while others were even left unable to log in for days.

Previously, in February it was reported that many Twitter users were unable to tweet, follow accounts or access their direct messages.

Musk doubled down on his unpopular push to drive authentication among users as he addressed the issue Friday, tweeting: 'Any social media companies that allow unauthenticated access will become bot-strewn hellscapes as soon as they become relevant.'

It comes after the platform has faced turbulent times in the aftermath of Musk's blockbuster $44 billion takeover last year.

His bombastic style left some shareholders reportedly concerned about his long-term future running the platform, leading Musk to step down as CEO and appoint media executive Linda Yaccarino to the job in May.

Musk has come under scrutiny for some decisions he made before he hired Yaccarino, including the removal of blue-check authentication for those not paying $8 a month for Twitter Blue.

In the months after he acquired the platform, Musk also sacked a large number of his workforce as he looked to cull staff and make the site work more efficiently.
The move left people outraged and stuck at airports across the nation

More than 2,200 flight delayed and 500 canceled in the US by noon Sunday

Travel chaos continues over the Fourth of July weekend at several airports

Furious passengers began to lash out at Pete Buttigieg over the Forth of July weekend's travel chaos as 4,500 delayed or canceled flights has left thousands of people stranded.

Angry tweets slammed the Transportation Secretary for not fixing the airline industry as the number of Americans traveling by air for the holiday is expected to reach 25 million, surpassing pre-pandemic levels for the first time in four years.

'Almost 3000 flights were delayed or canceled this weekend. And this is after he said he would fix the airline industry,' one Twitter user lamented.

But Buttigieg doesn't appear worried with how embattled airlines plans to improve, instead on Sunday morning saying he is 'focused' on making sure the U.S. airlines stay on track over the holiday as he warned of 'severe weather' causing even more delays and cancellations.

As of Sunday afternoon, there were about 550 flights within, into, or out of the United States that have been canceled already today. There have been another 4,025 flights delayed so far.

Travel chaos continued for tens of thousands of people over the Forth of July weekend as hundreds of flights were canceled and more than 1,000 have been delayed this morning

ATLANTA: Stranded passengers have reported having to sleep at the airport and stand in line for hours as they tried to rebook their flights, with some saying they were forced to wait several days for their checked bags

The chaos began ahead of the holiday weekend as storms began walloping the northeast and parts of the Midwest, causing mass delays and cancelations into and out of New York area airports.

Stranded passengers have reported having to sleep at the airport and stand in line for hours as they tried to rebook their flights, with some saying they were forced to wait several days for their checked bags.

United Airlines was hit hard by cancelations, and now the company is offering furious passengers 30,000 air miles to try and convince them to stay loyal to the company following a week of cancellation chaos  forcing many to spend nights in airports with many never landing at their final destinations.

'We had a hard two days with severe weather at the beginning of the week and that's put enormous pressure on the system,' Buttigieg told CBS Face the Nation host Margaret Brennan when asked why air travel in the U.S. is 'so chaotic' recently.

'[Cancellations] really shot up at the beginning of the week, largely because of severe weathering hitting some of our key hubs,' the Transportation secretary explained. 'I think most passengers understand that no one can control the weather. But anything that's under the control of the airlines  and anything that we can do on the FAA side  we need to continue pushing to make sure it's the smoothest possible experience for airline passengers everywhere.'

Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg warned of more 'severe weather' disruptions to air travel over July 4 holiday following approximately 7,500 cancelations and tens of thousands of delays

The mass debacle also comes about a week after Buttigieg warned of forthcoming travel disruptions due to a July 1 5G service boost that US wireless companies plan to execute.

US planes that are not retrofitted to withstand interference from the new 5G wireless signals may not be permitted to land in low-visibility conditions.

Many who took to social media to rage about their travel experiences this weekend called on Buttigieg to do something.

Bree Hocking reported having three cancelations and being stuck at the Denver Airport with no accommodation.

'It's 4:30am in the Denver airport. Cleaners are about now. Since Thursday, I've had 3 cancellations. multiple delays. and no accommodation. @united this is unacceptable. do better. @SecretaryPete @nytimes.'

Another tweet from Hocking read: 'Sunrise at the Denver airport. No such thing as beauty sleep here. Not a wink. Thanks @United for a truly miserable start to the holiday weekend. Compensate and accommodate your passengers. @SecretaryPete @nytimes.'

NEW YORK CITY: People wait in line at the security check-in of JFK International airport Friday

CHICAGO: The number of Americans traveling by air for the Fourth of July holiday is expected to reach 25 million, surpassing pre-pandemic levels for the first time in four years

Bree Hocking tweeted about three cancelations at Denver Airport with no accommodation

Brian Sims, a public policy and civil rights activist who was a member of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives for the 182nd district from 2013 until 2022, shared a thread of tweets detailing his experience with American Airlines and how he instead got help from United.

'IT'S OVER! More than 24 hours later, 3 cities, and experiencing @AmericanAir's predatory scheduling practices up close and center, it took @united to actually get me home. I'll follow up as I learn more from American, but I'm grateful for the support. Don't fly American Air,' he wrote hours after his ordeal.

On Day 2 of his ordeal, Sims wrote that 'American Airlines made this the worst flying experience of my adulthood.'

Sims also tweeted advice for his fellow passengers: 'TRAVEL ADVICE: Learn from my mistake. The only customer service travelers are going to get from @American is in response to public posts. Thats frustrating. If youre having terrible service, no service, or on-going issues with American, post publicly and also tag @FAANews.'

Brian Sims, a public policy and civil rights activist, shared a thread of tweets detailing his experience with American Airlines and how he instead got help from United

WASHINGTON DC: Delayed travelers wait for air traffic to resume at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport ahead of the July 4th holiday weekend in Arlington

SALT LAKE CITY: Travelers walk through crowds at airport in Salt Lake amid hundreds delays

Travelers in a United Airlines check in line ahead of the holiday weekend in Atlanta

On top of the hundreds of cancelations and delays last week, United was also scrambling to save face after it emerged that the carrier's CEO, Scott Kirby, flew privately from New York to Denver, while paying customers were left sleeping on airport floors.

'Taking a private jet was the wrong decision because it was insensitive to our customers who were waiting to get home,' Kirby said in a statement issued by the airline.

Passengers were unimpressed, with one tweeting a screenshot of his $10 million salary - significantly more than the CEOs of Delta or American Airlines.

In a letter to those worst affected by this week's chaos, Chief Customer Officer Linda Jojo said: 'I know this week was hard. Really bad weather, air traffic control issues and some of our own operational challenges led to a rough experience for you and many of our customers.

'Providing these miles is the right thing to do. After all, you put your trust in us and expect more,' Jojo added.

United have not said how many people will receive the miles.

Scott Kirby, the CEO of United Airlines. His airline is offering air miles as an apology to passengers stranded this week

Passengers have been offered 30,000 free air miles in a bid to try and keep them flying

Some travelers were told Monday that they may not be able to get on flights until Thursday

On Saturday, Kirby said the airline plans to make changes in flight operations to avoid weather-related disruptions ahead of the Fourth of July holiday travel.

'While we work to control the things that are within our control, we must also do a better job of planning against the things that are outside our control so that we can be in a position to recover more quickly,' Kirby said in a note.

Last month, United canceled about 19 percent of its scheduled flights as thunderstorms and equipment failures at a U.S. Federal Aviation Administration facility in Washington caused significant delays for air travelers on the U.S. East Coast.

About 26,000 flights were delayed by all airlines during a weekend in June after thunderstorms ripped through parts of the U.S., according to data from flight monitoring service FlightAware. Kirby last week blamed the FAA for recent flight cancellations.

United Airlines is also working with Port Authority of New York and New Jersey to get more gates, Kirby said, adding that the company would have to further change or reduce its schedule give itself more spare gates and buffer, particularly during storm season.

'Airlines can plan for things like hurricanes, sub-zero temperatures and snowstorms, but United has never seen an extended limited operating environment like the one we saw this past week at Newark,' Kirby said in a note to employees.
Ohio Sen. J.D. Vance said he wants to see military force used against drug cartels at the southern border as fentanyl continues to flow in the U.S.

It comes the same week the Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis proposed the use of 'deadly force' against drudge cartels and smugglers  but Vance's office told DailyMail.com that the comments are not connected.

The massive spike in fentanyl overdoses and deaths in recent years is not only an issue that hits close to home with Vances constituents, but also his own family, a spokesperson for the senator said when noting that his comments were pre-recorded on June 22  four days before DeSantis' remarks.

Vance has long called for more forceful action at the border and is supporting former President Donald Trump's third White House bid.

The pro-Trump senator said during an interview with NBC's Meet the Press on Sunday morning that he would want to 'empower' the president, whoever that may be, to use the U.S. military to target drug cartels and smugglers at the southern border.

Ohio Sen. J.D. Vance said Sunday that he supports plans to use U.S. Military force against drug cartels at the southern border

'You think the fentanyl problem is bad now, what about three years from now when the Mexican drug cartels are more powerful than the Mexican state itself?' Vance questioned when speaking with host Chuck Todd.

Presidential hopeful DeSantis said Monday while unveiling his proposal to tackle the southern border crisis from Eagle Pass, Texas that he would use 'deadly force' to combat the flow of drugs into the U.S. from Mexico.

DeSantis has repeatedly taken aim at former President Donald Trump for failing to deliver on promises he made while campaigning when he got into office  like constructing a wall along the entire southern border.

'I would empower the President of the United States  whether that's a Republican or a Democrat  to use the power of the U.S. Military to go after these drug cartels,' he said.

He also warned that if the drug crisis continued on the current track, Mexico could become a 'failed state' - like what happened in Colombia.

'[Cartel] revenue per year has gone up 14 fold just in the last couple of years,' Vance said. 'That shows you, I think, what bad border policies can do.'

'The Mexican government is being, in a lot of ways, destabilized by the constant flow of fentanyl.'

DeSantis said Monday that the best way to deter cartels is by taking down coyotes and smugglers and making it clear they will be met with force from border enforcement if they break U.S. laws.

'If you drop a couple of these cartel operatives, they'll stop coming,' DeSantis said at a press conference in front of the Rio Grande River in Eagle Pass, Texas last week.

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis said during a campaign stop in Eagle Pass, Texas on Monday that he would use 'deadly force' at the border against cartels and smugglers

The presidential hopeful has now visited the southern border twice since he announced his campaign just one month ago, which highlights the importance the governor is placing on the migration and drug crisis.

'I was in Arizona the other day, and you know, you have like walls and it just kind of stops,' DeSantis detailed during a campaign event with Texas voters. 'The guy from the cartel just kind of hangs out where it stops and he motions for people to go over.'

'So having just one piece, I mean,  you got to finish the job, and there's a lot more you got to do on that,' the Florida governor insisted.

Speaking to reporters at a popular crossing point in Eagle Pass, Texas on Monday, DeSantis said that as president he would on day one reverse all executive orders implemented by President Joe Biden that allowed migrants to overrun the southern border.

'We'll have a new sheriff in town on January 20, 2025,' he told Fox News.
Alex has vowed to use the family's money to advocate for more far-left causes like abortion and gender equality, saying he is 'more political' than his father

The announcement comes less than one month after George Soros, 92, ceded control of his $25billion empire to his son Alex, 37

A nonprofit organization set up by billionaire George Soros is set to cut nearly half its workforce under its new leadership.

Open Society Foundations announced Friday it would lay off at least 40 percent of its 800-person-strong workforce as its new chairman, Alex Soros, plans to use his family's $25billion fortune to advocate for more woke causes and become more involved in elections.

He and President Mark Malloch-Brown said in a statement they would implement 'significant changes to the foundation's operating model... in the coming months.'

Those changes include significant layoffs, a spokesperson for the organization has confirmed, though it remains unclear which branches of the nonprofit would be most affected.

The announcement comes less than one month after Soros, 92, ceded control of his empire to Alex, 37, who has claimed he is 'more political' than his notorious liberal father.

Alex Soros, pictured in 2017, took control of his father's empire last month

The 37-year-old has claimed to be 'more political' than his 92-year-old father, George

George founded a predecessor to the Open Society Foundation in his native Hungary in 1984, with the goal of 'encouraging dissent behind the Iron Curtain.'

But over time, the foundation morphed into a larger machine promoting democratization, education, public health and the arts across the world.

It has disbursed more than $19billion in grants throughout its lifetime, after George donated more than $32billion.

Open Society Foundation currently controls the majority of assets maintained by the Soros family, but, Bloomberg reports, much of that money has gone to compensation for its employees.

In 2021, Open Society spent nearly $72million on pay and another $40million on benefits and pension plans, making employee compensation its biggest expenditure that year.

'The Board aims to transform operations across the global network, with the goal of generating a nimbler organization,' Alex and Mark Malloch-Brown said in their statement Friday.

They added that the changes to the internal workings of the organization 'are intended to maximize Open Society's impact in helping to counter the forces currently threatening open and free societies.

'The Board expects that this new model will create a culture of "strategic opportunism" at the foundations and among the grantees they support,' the statement continued.

'This proposed new mode would favor both longer-term "patient capital" approaches as well as tactical short term needs.

'While Open Society works on these internal changes, the Board remains firmly committed to the foundation's core priorities  democracy, human rights, climate justice and addressing inequity.'

Open Society Foundations currently controls the majority of assets maintained by the Soros family, but much of that money has gone to compensation of its employees

The 37-year-old heir had previously told the Wall Street Journal he plans to broaden his father's woke aims, but will embrace different causes like abortion rights and gender equality

Speaking to the Daily Beast, Samuel Brunson, who researches nonprofits at Loyola University School of Law, said the downsizing is not surprising, given that Alex may 'have different priorities and goals' than his father.

The 37-year-old heir had previously told the Wall Street Journal he plans to broaden his father's woke aims, but will embrace different causes like abortion rights and gender equality.

To do so, Alex said he plans to use about $125million of the family's $25billion reserve for its super PAC  which has backed the election campaigns of woke district attorneys and other law enforcement officials seeking to reduce incarceration rates and perceived racial bias in the justice system.

'As much as I would love to get money out of politics, as long as the other side is doing it, we will have to do it, too,' Alex Soros said.

He also said he was concerned about the possibility of Republican Donald Trump returning to the White House  suggesting the family will contribute greatly to Democrats in the 2024 presidential election.

'As much as I would love to get money out of politics, as long as the other side is doing it, we will have to do it, too,' he said.

Still, Alex insisted he still plans to use the majority of his family fortune for the OSF.

Though Alex said he does not back every leftist cause. In contrast with many others on the left, Alex said he believes free speech on campus has become too restricted.

'I have some differences with my generation in regard to free speech and other things,' he said.

'I grew up watching Bill Maher before bed, after all,' he noted, referring to the TV personality who has spoken out against limitations on free speech on college campuses.

Alex has promised to be more political than his father, though he does not back every liberal cause and has lamented restricted speech on college campuses

Alexander Soros, 37, frequently posts shots of himself with Democratic politicians including Nancy Pelosi and Barack Obama

It marks a change in tone from his father who typically keeps a lower profile and exerts his influence through donations made to liberal causes. He is pictured with Pelosi, left, and Pictured with Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttgieg, right

In the last few months, Alex Soros has transformed his image from playboy to Washington heavyweight posting pictures of himself with Democrats, including Barack Obama and Nancy Pelosi.

Recently-updated White House logs reveal he has visited at least 14 times since December 2021.

Last year, Alex made two trips in April, three in September, four in October and four in December.

Another visit was logged in December 2021.

On December 1, 2022, he met with then Chief of Staff Ron Klain's advisor Nina Srivastava who worked on Biden's presidential campaign.

The same day he was one of 330 people to attend a state dinner hosted by the President and First Lady Jill Biden.

The moves comes as he promises to continue to back liberal causes and candidates, much like his father. George made his billions as a hedge fund tycoon in the UK.

Soros has also thrown millions of dollars behind liberal DAs - either with outright donations or funneled through political action committees - effectively buying elections and leading to the installment of at least 75 prosecutors who support his leftist agenda.

George Soros has pumped at least $40million into backing woke district attorneys

The billionaire's DAs have stripped away bail laws and opted to forgo prosecuting crimes like theft and reckless driving, effectively giving criminals a free pass and leading to the breakdown of law and order across the United States.

As a direct result, crime has skyrocketed in major cities overseen by Soros's DAs. In 2021 under Kim Foxx's reign, Chicago had the most murders it's seen since 1994. And in Philadelphia, drug use and violent crime has seen a surge since Larry Krasner took office.

The Hungarian-American financier has also been thrown into the spotlight in recent weeks as he became embroiled in the fall-out surrounding Trump's arrest.

Trump frequently accuses George of funding Manhattan DA Alvin Bragg and suggesting he is to blame for the case that centers around a $130,000 hush money payment made to porn star Stormy Daniels.

George donated $1 million in 2021 to the left-leaning Color of Change political action committee that backed Bragg.

On April 2, the Trump campaign wrote: 'Leftist Democrat District Attorney Alvin Bragg concocted a sham indictment of President Donald J. Trump. It is an unprecedented political persecution of the 45th President of the United States and a blatant attempt to interfere in the 2024 election.'

It added that 'the American people and Republican primary voters, in particular, are outraged by the weaponization of our justice system by George Soros hand-picked and funded Manhattan DA against a completely innocent person and the leading Republican candidate for president.'

But George vehemently hit back at the accusations as he claimed he had no connection to Bragg.

His spokesman Michael Vachon said: 'George Soros has never met, spoken with, or otherwise communicated with Alvin Bragg.

'Neither George Soros nor Democracy PAC (a PAC to which Mr. Soros has contributed funds) contributed to Alvin Braggs campaign for Manhattan District Attorney.'
The Orkney Islands are to consider plans to leave the UK and become a self-governing territory of Norway, over claims they're being 'failed dreadfully' by Westminster and Holyrood.

A motion to look at 'alternative forms of governance' is set to go before Orkney Islands Council on Tuesday.

James Stockan, the council leader, said the islands are 'really struggling at the moment', adding that they doesn't receive fair funding.

He told the BBC: 'We are denied the things that other areas get like RET (Road Equivalent Tariff) for ferry fares. And the funding we get from the Scottish government is significantly less per head than Shetland and the Western Isles to run the same services - we can't go on as we are.'

Mr Stockan suggested looking at Crown Dependencies such as the Channel Islands or Falkland Islands, or the self-governing Denmark territory the Faroe Islands, as possible governing routes for Orkney.

A view of village Stromness, which is only the Orkney Islands mainland and is the second most populated area

The Ring of Brodgar, a Neolithic henge and stone circle, on the mainland of the Orkney Islands

James Stockan (pictured), the council leader, said the islands are 'really struggling at the moment', adding that they doesn't receive fair funding

He said the funding Orkney receives from the Scottish government is significantly less per head than Shetland and the Western Isles. This is despite all three areas having a population of between 22,000 and 27,000.

And while an in-depth study has never been done, Mr Stockan says that while the islands have contributed to the country through north sea oil for 40 years, 'the dividend we get back isn't sufficient to keep us going'.

He is urging Orkney councillors to back his plan to seek alternative ways of governing, in order to achieve more economic opportunities and better financial stability for the island and its residents.

As part of his motion, Mr Stockan suggests following the models of Jersey, Guernsey and the Isle of Man.

But he needs backing, as he says the investigation into the best governing options would require a larger workforce.

Wanting to avoid 'doing this emotionally', Mr Stockan said the council will first decide if it supports the motion before taking its time with looking into the best possible options.

'We want to look at all the practical implications and then we'll evaluate the results,' he said. 'We are looking for the very best position for future generations and our place in the world.'

Another option mentioned is the possibility of securing a 'Nordic connection' with Denmark, Norway or Iceland.

And this would echo Orkney's past, as it was under Danish and Norwegian control after the Scandinavian countries colonised the island in the eight century.

Norway and Denmark held control of Orkney until it was given to Scotland, along with Shetland, in 1472 by impoverished Christian I, King of Denmark, Norway and Sweden, as part of a marriage deal.

A ship arriving to the coastal port town of Kirkwall on the mainland of the Orkney Islands, in Scotland

Pictured is the path back to Rackwick from The Old Man of Hoy, on the island of Hoy in Orkney

The islands were offered up as security for the dowry of the Princess Margaret, the prospective wife of James III of Scotland and daughter of King Christian I.

But the King never made the dowry payment of 50,000 Rhenish Florins, and Orkney and Shetland were absorbed by Scotland.

And it seems Orcadians resonate with their Norwegian routes, with Mr Stockan adding: 'On the street in Orkney people come up and say to me when are we going to pay back the dowry, when are we going back to Norway,

'There is a hug affinity and a huge deep cultural relationship there. This is exactly the moment to explore what is possible.'
Mike Pence called former Arizona Gov. Doug Ducey after the 2020 elections to talk about legal challenges to overturn the results  but insisted that he did not 'pressure' him.

People familiar with the call to Ducey told the Washington Post that the ex-vice president now running for Donald Trump's former job tried to push the then-governor to overturn the results.

The report notes that Pence made the call to Ducey after pressure from Trump to do so.

'I did check in, with not only Governor Ducey, but other governors in states that were going through the legal process of reviewing their election results, but there was no pressure involved,' Pence clarified during an interview on CBS's Face the Nation on Sunday morning in response to the report.

Former Vice President Mike Pence said Sunday that he did call governors to check-in on legal challenges to the 2020 results after the election  but said there was 'no pressure involved' in the calls

He continued: 'After so much uncertainty about the election outcome in places like Arizona, in places like Georgia, states around the country were going through the legal process of engaging in a review under state law. I got updates on that, passed that along, and it was no more or no less than that.'

Pushed on if Trump was pressuring him to make the calls or push governors to pursue legal action, Pence said: 'I don't remember any pressure.'

'Look, the president and I  things came to a head at the end,' he continuedc. 'I've spoken about that very openly. And the president and I continue to have a strong difference. I'll always believe that by God's grace I did my duty under the Constitution in the aftermath of the mayhem and the rioting.'

'This was an orderly process,' he noted of the legal challenges that ensued after the January 6, 2021 Capitol attack.

'You'll remember there were more than 60 lawsuits underway,' he added. 'States were engaging in appropriate reviews, and these contacts were not more than that.'

Pence, according to the Post report, called Ducey to prod the Republican governor to find evidence of fraudulent votes in Arizona to help overturn the election results in the state.

The former president's goal after the 2020 election was to find enough wrongdoing in certain states' presidential election process to overturn the Electoral College votes and avoid the narrow loss he saw to President Joe Biden.

The Washington Post reported that Pence pressured then-Arizona Gov. Doug Ducey into finding fraudulent votes to overturn the election results in his state to help Trump avoid the narrow loss to Biden

Ducey has become one of the many political punching bags for Trump following 2020.

The former president has called Ducey a RINO  or Republican in Name Only  which has become one of his biggest insults to opponents within the GOP.

Ducey reached his term limit and is no longer governor of Arizona.

Meanwhile, Trump is still under federal investigation for efforts by him and his allies to null Biden's 2020 victory.
After an accident at the Stillwater Mine in 1988 left Bert Stephenson with a disability that barred his return to work, he started volunteering, helping the homeless and others in his community.

Now, at 63, the longtime Billings resident fears hell soon be homeless himself.

After 26 years of living quietly in his Heights mobile home park, Stephenson and 15 of his neighbors have been served with eviction notices.

The trailer parks owner sold the property earlier this year. The new landlord wants to move in mobile homes he owns, so residents have until September to get out.

Stephenson and his neighbors own their homes, but rent the ground beneath them. Being evicted means theyll have to relocate their houses or lose them outright.

But, moving a mobile home isnt as easy as the name suggests. At best, it costs thousands of dollars. At worst, if the trailer is too old, moving might not be possible at all.

Stephenson didnt expect to ever have to move his 1976 Marshfield as long as he paid his lot rent on time and didnt cause any trouble.

You just dont see this coming, he said. Youre like a deer in headlights  step out into the road and boom.

Buy, bye

For decades, mobile homes have provided affordable places to live on a lower income. In Montana, they make up 10 percent of the housing stock, versus 5.5 percent nationwide, according to U.S. Census Bureau data.

Now, with the states housing shortages and soaring home prices pushing up rents, mobile home parks have become attractive investments.

Across the country, theyre being gobbled up by investors, in many cases by profit-hungry private-equity firms that have boosted lot rent and pushed longtime residents out. Dozens of newly homeless people surveyed this past winter by service groups in Billings, Livingston, Bozeman, Great Falls and Missoula said they had last lived in a mobile home.

Montana has a shortage of almost 16,000 affordable rentals, according to the National Low Income Housing Coalition. Statewide, at least 28,000 households are living on incomes at or below 30 percent of the areas median. Thats $27,345 a year or less to get by on for almost a quarter of the states renters.

And despite promises from the governor and leaders across the state to provide incentives to encourage more affordable housing, there isnt much hope of relief on the horizon.

Not so mobile homes

On the rutted dirt road going into the mobile home park behind the Heights Inn on Main Street, Stephensons place is hard to miss. A wooden cross stands out front, towering a few feet taller than his trailer.

It had been part of an Easter display several years ago at Harvest Church, where he volunteers. After the holiday, he asked his pastor if he could take it home so he could hang lights on it at Christmastime.

The cross has stood in front of his trailer since, serving as a symbol of his hope and as a landmark at the parks entrance. During the past two and a half decades, Stephensons lot rent has risen from $99 to $525 a month. And, he said, the increases havent come with park improvements.

Now, his trailer is too old to move. And, even if he could afford it, most parks only allow newer mobile homes.

According to federal housing regulations, those built before 1976 dont meet current safety standards and shouldnt be moved, even a short distance. For those that can be relocated, professional movers estimate the average at anywhere from $5,000 to $13,000, depending on location, the homes size and condition, the distance of the move, and fees for legally required inspections, permits and insurance.

The price tag puts the possibility of moving out of reach for many mobile home owners. Stephenson said he lives on a fixed income and has no savings and few assets. He has a couple of old beater cars hes been trying to sell since he was served with the eviction notice in March.

Im a guy who doesnt like much change but if I could have moved, I would have, Stephenson said, wearing a worn-in I love Billings T-shirt. Ive always been able to get by until now.

Losing connections

Hes helped others get by, too. His neighbor, Philadelphia Ana Barnes, said her mother wouldnt have had a place to live after a windstorm took off the roof of her home in Lockwood if Stephenson and his church hadnt stepped in. They helped her get a spot in the Heights Inn mobile home park.

Barnes said she was homeless before she moved there about 10 years ago. She now owns the trailer she lives in with her daughter, two cats, and a mutt dog named Amaliah.

We turned this from a slum trailer into a home, the 36-year-old said, pointing out improvements shes made.

Her brother Thomas Barnes lives across the street. Thats been a lifesaver for the single mother, who struggles with health problems, including a seizure disorder and diabetes. Her dog is trained to sense her seizures coming on. And when they do, Amaliah runs over to alert Thomas to come help.

After mom passed, were all weve got, Barnes said. We have a community here and weve got each others backs.

Working isn't enough

Barnes works full-time as a cashier at a Holiday station. But, after paying $525 for monthly lot rent plus utilities and her other bills, she said, she often has trouble buying enough groceries to feed her family.

The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development defines affordable housing as that which requires spending no more than 30 percent of a households income on rent and utilities. In Montana, that means a full-time worker whos earning the minimum wage of $9.95 an hour can afford to pay $517 a month for housing. That number shrinks to just $274 for seniors and people with disabilities who are living on Supplemental Security Income.

But wages arent keeping up with skyrocketing rents across the state. The average Montana renter is earning $16.91 an hour. Meanwhile, the states fair market rent, the monthly cost for a standard, non-luxury rental in the local housing market, has risen to $785 for a one-bedroom and $1,002 for a two-bedroom.

Minimum-wage earners like Barnes and about 23,500 others across the state, would need to work 61 to 77 hours a week to afford a modest rental.

An employee working 40 hours a week would need to make at least $19.28 an hour, or $40,098 annually, to afford a two-bedroom at fair market rent in Montana, according to the National Low Income Housing Coalition. In the states most expensive areas, including Bozeman, Missoula and Billings, full-time workers would need to earn hourly wages of $22.38, $21.54 and $20.27, respectively.

Across Montana, more and more households are spending more than half their income on housing, making them more likely to sacrifice necessities, such as medical care and healthy food, to keep a roof over their heads. Like Barnes, these cost-burdened renters are also more vulnerable to housing instability and evictions.

I have nowhere else to go, she said.

Safety net fail

Of course, government and nonprofit programs provide assistance for some, but theres not enough help to go around.

HomeFront, the public housing authority of Billings, is seeing the need for assistance increase every month. Executive Director Patti Webster said the agency now has more than 7,000 people on its waitlist. Itll likely take about two years before those at the bottom start getting help.

Even then, about a quarter of those whove been approved for housing subsidies won't be able to find a home where they can use them in Billings, Webster said.

HomeFront is now losing $762,698 in federal housing assistance that couldnt be used to serve local families due to a lack of qualified, affordable homes available in the area. The money would have paid $620 a month to private landlords to offset the cost of rent for 102 households.

But, with multiple qualified applicants competing for open properties, landlords have little incentive to participate in public housing programs and are jacking up rents instead.

Ive been in public housing for 20 years and this is the worst Ive seen, said Brian Starr, HomeFronts construction director.

Now, he and other advocates are bracing for the citys housing woes to be compounded as the money for Montana's COVID-19 emergency rental assistance program runs out.

Kari Boiter, who works to prevent homelessness with the Yellowstone County Continuum of Care, said many of about 600 local households that were receiving state help during the pandemic are now facing eviction. With nowhere to go and help hard to find, she fears hundreds of families could soon wind up on the streets.

No (free) room at the inn

Longtime Billings landlord Jeremy McCune said he saw the housing crisis coming early in 2020. When the state started offering landlords and hoteliers up to $2,200 a month to put people up during the pandemic, he figured he could help and pay down his mortgages while the money lasted. So, he bought the old Western Inn on Second Avenue North and the Heights Inn, which came with the mobile home park where Barnes and Stephenson live.

McCune, a well-known local race car driver, went to work, rehabbing the motel properties. After speeding through extensive renovations, he started taking tenants who were using emergency rental assistance at $875 a person or $1,750 a month for each double room.

But, McCune said, the state has yet to make good on its promise to pay and now owes him more than $400,000 in back rent. After months of waiting for the money, he sent eviction notices to 30 tenants living in his motel rooms in June.

McCune said he really doesn't want them to have an eviction record because he knows itll make it difficult for them to rent another home. But, he has bills to pay and he cant take the state to court to get his money without the paperwork.

McCune said he did the best he could to help Stephenson and the others hes evicting from the mobile home park, too. He gave them six months to get out, even though only a 30-day notice was required.

Once theyre gone, McCune wants to replace their homes with five-bedroom doublewides, and rent the rooms individually for around $1,000 a month. He sees it as a way to provide more affordable housing in Billings, although he acknowledges the rent would be a bit steep for someone scrimping by on a budget.

Itd be tight, but doable, he said.

Building out

McCune isnt the only one seeing opportunity in addressing the housing shortage in Billings.

The Utah-based Havenpark Communities, which has been buying up mobile home parks across Montana since 2018, is now expanding the Golden Meadows trailer court on the West End, adding 276 lots with new manufactured homes.

In the Heights, HomeFront has two affordable housing projects in the works.

The organization bought mancamps, barrack-like manufactured housing that had been set up for oil field workers in Williston, North Dakota. HomeFront plans to reuse the one-bedroom, one-bathroom units and convert them into 20 five-plex buildings with kitchens and living areas.

Theyre going in on land HomeFront owns on Sioux Lane. The project is expected add 100 affordable apartments to the city within a year.

HomeFront is also planning to start constructing homes using large concrete 3D printers in August. Webster, the executive director, said a basic three-bedroom, one-bathroom house with a one-car garage can be printed in 24 hours for about $40,000.

Its a huge possible solution, she said. We cant stick build our way out of this.
Joe Biden will meet King Charles and Prime Minister Rishi Sunak when he visits the UK next week, the White House confirmed today.

The US president will arrive in Britain on July 9 before heading to the Baltic two days later for talks likely to focus on Russia and the Ukraine war.

The visit will be the first time he has met Charles since he was crowned, with the president having sent his wife, Dr Jill Biden, to the coronation.

He attended the funeral of Elizabeth II last year and met Charles at the Cop26 environmental conference.

The visit will also come less than a month after the 80-year-old leader bemused a crowd at a speech in New England by saying: 'God save the queen, man.'

It will also mark another chance for the Prime Minister to defrost transatlantic relations, after his visit to the White House last month.

It will be the sixth time the two leaders have met since Sunak took office in October.

The US president will spend four days in Britain from July 9 before heading to the Baltic for talks about the war in Ukraine.

The visit will be the first time he has met Charles since he was crowned, with the president having sent his wife, Dr Jill Biden, to the coronation.

He attended the funeral of Elizabeth II last year (above) and met Charles at the Cop26 environmental conference in 2021 (below)

A statement from White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said: 'President Biden is scheduled to travel to the United Kingdom, Lithuania, and Finland from July 9-13.

'President Biden will first travel to London, United Kingdom for engagements with King Charles III and Prime Minister Rishi Sunak to further strengthen the close relationship between our nations.

'The President will then travel to Vilnius, Lithuania from July 11-12 to attend the 74th Nato Summit.

'On July 13, President Biden will visit Helsinki, Finland for a US-Nordic Leaders Summit. More details about the trip will be announced soon.'

The apparently short trip by Mr Biden comes after the US and the UK announced a new partnership, the 'Atlantic Declaration', to bolster economic security.

Announced during Mr Sunak's visit to the White House, it included commitments on easing trade barriers, closer defence industry ties and a data protection deal.

While both sides used that Washington visit to hail the strength of US-UK ties, Mr Biden has not been afraid of occasionally criticising London.

Mr Biden in May claimed that he visited the island of Ireland earlier this year to ensure the 'Brits didn't screw around', amid ongoing US concern about the impact of Brexit on the peace process.

During that visit, the President told the Irish parliament that he believed the UK should be working more closely with the administration in Dublin to support Northern Ireland.
A Minnesota man who is accused of chopping up his girlfriend - who vanished months ago - and putting her remains in a storage unit has now been linked to the years-long disappearance of another woman.

Joseph Jorgenson, 40, was arrested last week after a standoff at his Maplewood home with police who reportedly followed a trail of evidence that included a Google search for the word 'jugular' the day 34-year-old Manjieh 'Mani' Starren disappeared.

Starren's remains were found wrapped in plastic in bags, stuffed in coolers at a storage facility where a unit had been rented under the name of Jorgenson's roommate, according to new details in a criminal complaint.

Now, an investigation has revealed that another woman Fanta Xayavong, 33, was last seen with Jorgenson before she disappeared in July 2021.

'To put it bluntly, we're concerned for her safety also,' Saint Paul Police Sgt. Mike Ernster said at a press conference on Friday.

Xayavong is described as 5-feet-4-inches tall and weighs 120 pounds and her last known location may have been Shoreview, police said.

Joseph Jorgenson, 40, of Maplewood, Minnesota, who is accused of killing and dismembering Manjieh 'Mani' Starren, is now tied to missing Fanta Xayavong, 33, who vanished in 2021

The remains of Manjieh 'Mani' Starren, 33, remains were later found coolers at a storage facility where a unit had been rented under the name of Jorgenson's roommate

Now, an investigation has revealed that another woman Fanta Xayavong, 33, was last seen with Jorgenson before she disappeared in July 2021

Xayavong went missing in July 2021, though a missing person report was not filed until May 2023, police said.

There was a possible relationship between Xayavong and Jorgenson when she went missing. Police have renewed calls for information on her case and asked anyone with details to contact authorities.

Jorgenson was charged Friday with one count of murder in the second degree in connection to the death of Starren and could face up to 40 years in prison, Law & Crime reported.

'Thank you to the officers for following every lead,' Starren's brother wrote on Facebook after her body was found.

'My beautiful sister you will be missed greatly! Heaven has gotten a new Angel and we haven't stopped looking and found you to bring you home!... Hope you are sitting with Grandpa fishing and watching dolphins up there fly high! I LOVE YOU!!'

The details of the case first came to light on May 1 when Starren's father reported her missing to the Saint Paul Police Department after not hearing from her since April 21.

Police learned Starren was allegedly the victim of domestic violence and that her son's father told them Jorgenson had once wrapped a rope around her neck. A neighbor also told cops they had seen her with a black eye and red marks on her neck.

Security video showed Starren running from her apartment on April 21 and Jorgenson pulling her back in, police said. He was later caught on camera going in and out of the home 28 times in the following weekonce with suitcase and duffle bags into his roommate's pickup truck. Starren, however, was not seen again.

A search of Jorgenson's apartment in Maplewood revealed broken furniture and appliances, blood on the couch, in the living room, and in the kitchen. It would later be revealed to belong to Starren.

The details of the case first came to light on May 1 when Starren's father reported her missing to the Saint Paul Police Department after not hearing from her since April 21

A SWAT team raided his apartment Monday, where police said Jorgenson barricaded himself inside, allegedly started a fire and resisted officers. He also allegedly tried to grab a SWAT officer's AR-15 before he was arrested.

Jorgenson faces separate charges of arson, threats of violence and disarming an officer from that incident.

Further investigation revealed the manager of the building where Jorgenson lived told police residents had complained in mid-May about a stench from his apartment that smelled like something had died.

'Shortly afterwards, the manager and maintenance employee saw Jorgenson carrying and dragging large black duffle bags out of the apartment. They commented to each other that it looked like Jorgenson was 'carrying a dead body,' according to the complaint.

Two days after the raid, police located Starren's chopped up remains at a storage facility in Woodbury. They also found two padlock keys that matched the storage unit, where cell phone records show that Jorgenson had been on May 18.

'The torso was extensively wrapped in saran wrap and placed in multiple layers of bags,' according to the affidavit.

'The next set of remains removed was the head which was also wrapped in multiple layers of saran wrap and bags. The third set of remains was then removed from the duffel bag. The remains consisting of two arms, two thighs, and the remaining parts of the legs and feet that were also wrapped in a large amount of saran wrap. Great care had been taken to wrap the remains. It took an extended amount of time for the medical examiner to just remove the remains from their wrappings.'

The Ramsey County Medical Examiner's Office identified the remains on June 29 as Manijeh Starren, 34, of Saint Paul, Minnesota, and her death was ruled a homicide.

'Jorgenson is the only one that comes out of that unit, and Mani is never seen again,' Saint Paul Sgt. Mike Ernster said in a news conference on Friday.

'He did not report her missing to police. Instead, he just went on with his life without saying anything to anyone.'

Online records also revealed a slew of evidence, police said led them to Jorgenson including text messages, and activity showing he had used Starren's food-stamps card, purchased a large amount of cleaning supplies, and had made some disturbing Google searches.

There were two threatening messages Jorgenson sent to Starren two weeks before she vanished, police said.

'N u owe me 2 bc u called the cops on me 2 times. Very clear I was of that being punishable by hanging. I'm giving u this plea bargain opportunity. So yw,' one read.

The other said: 'Hope u die of a kidney infection u bitch c*** terrible f***ing mother.'

A GoFundMe has been created to help Starren's family pay for funeral expenses

Google searches revealed he had searched for the word 'Jugular' on April 21. On May 1, he searched: 'What do police do with a missing person's report.'

On May 3, he Googled, 'How to clear cookies from android phone,' and on May 27, he looked up: 'How to remove gps lime scooter.'

On June 4, Jorgenson Googled, 'Lime for soil.' The complaint noted that 'lime can be used to speed up the decomposition process of a body and to reduce the smell of decomposition.'

Jorgenson was charged and booked in to jail.

A GoFundMe has been created to help Starren's family pay for funeral expenses.

'Any crime that occurs in our community is horrific. A homicide is among the worst of all crimes for family, for our community, and even our investigators,' said Saint Paul Police Chief Axel Henry.

'Our department is committed to bringing those who cause harm to justice, and now a very dangerous person is under arrest. The apprehension of this suspect illustrated the danger he posed to the public, and the dedication of our officers to protect our community.'
Bud Light's sales have plummeted so much that a glass bottling company was forced to shut down two of its plants and lay off nearly 650 employees.

The Ardagh Group, one of the largest glass producers in the world, announced last week it was shuttering its Wilson, North Carolina, and Simsboro, Louisiana, plants on July 17. The Wilson plant employed nearly 400 people, and the Simsboro plant had 245  all of whom now find themselves without jobs.

The company did not cite a reason for the closures in its statement, just saying it was part of a 'multi-year performance optimization program.'

But an investigation by WRAL found Ardagh was forced to close the plants due to declining sales of Bud Light  one of its major contractors.

The one-time beer giant has lost its reputation as America's top-selling beer amid a boycott from both leftists and conservatives over its partnership with controversial transgender TikToker Dylan Mulvaney in April.

Mulvaney, 26, recently slammed the company for not supporting her amid the backlash to her March Madness ad, prompting the beer company to double down on its support for the LGBTQIA community.

The Ardagh Group announced last week it was shutting down its Wilson, North Carolina, bottling plant (pictured), which employs about 400 people

The Simsboro, Louisiana, plant (pictured) would also be closed on July 17, leaving some 245 people without jobs

An internal memo obtained by WRAL cites declining sales with Anheuser-InBev, the parent company of Bud Light

Workers at both the North Carolina and Louisiana bottling plants have said they have faced decreased production since Mulvaney's promotion was posted online in early April.

Both plants were forced to put some of their machines offline amid the decreased demand, which was 'of course, being pointed towards the Bud Light situation,' James Munhall, a journeyman machine repair mechanic, told WRAL.

By May 18, an internal memo obtained by the news station, company executives said they would shut down the two plants 'due to slow sales with Anheuser-InBev,' the parent company of Budweiser and Bud Light.

Longtime employees explained that the majority of their business was making bottles for Budweiser and Bud Light.

They said at a meeting inside the North Carolina plant last week, the plant manager told them the boycott was forcing them to shut down.

'Because of Budweiser no longer selling the bottle, they no longer needed our product,' David Williams, a machine repair mechanic, told WRAL.

The beer brand saw its sales drop 28.5 percent in the week ending June 17  one of the worst weeks since the campaign aired in April.

It's a deeper drop from the week ending on June 10, which saw a 26.8 percent drop, according to Bump Williams Consulting and NielsenIQ.

The new low beats the previous worst - an almost 26 percent drop- for the week ending May 25.

David Williams, a machine repair mechanic told WRAL, that the plant was closing because Budweiser can no longer sell its products

Longtime employees explained that the majority of their business was making bottles for Budweiser and Bud Light

The beer brand saw its sales drop 28.5 percent in the week ending June 17  one of the worst weeks since the campaign aired in April

Those declining sales figures apparently exacerbated ongoing supply-chain issues at the glass factories.

In a February sales call, Ardagh  which is headquartered in Luxembourg  announced that North America saw a 9 percent drop in shipments and falling revenue.

When announcing the closures last week, the company simply said: 'Our multi-year performance optimization program, involving targeted investments in enhanced capacity and ongoing cost optimization, underpins our ability to continue to provide existing and prospective customers with high quality American-made sustainable glass packaging.'

It added existing customers will continue to be supplied from alternative locations in the network, according to the Ruston Leader.

Meanwhile, employees at the Wilson plant say their union is negotiating a severance package while they struggle to find another good-paying union job.

Many said it was their second plant closed by Ardagh in the past decade.

'They're descendants of the family that's also worked in the industry,' Munhall said.

'Not only are you killing an employee's job, you're killing his family, his chances at sending his kids to college.'

DailyMail.com has reached out to Ardagh Group for comment.

TikToker Dylan Mulvaney, 26, says she partnered with Bud Light for a March Madness promotion to celebrate her first full year as a transgender female

The controversial promotion forced a nationwide boycott of the one-time top-selling beer

Anheuser-Busch executives have previously said that the ongoing boycotts of Bud Light have hurt frontline workers and wholesalers as conservatives stopped buying the beer following the Mulvaney promotion.

She said in the video that she was partnering with the beer maker in a campaign to support her first full year as a transgender female  but Anheuser-Busch executives have since denied that there was any partnership after originally saying it was the brainchild of an outside ad agency.

Speaking up last week for the first time since the disastrous ad was posted, Mulvaney slammed the company for failing to support her.

'I was waiting for the brand to reach out to me, but they never did,' she said, claiming: 'I've been scared to leave my house.'

'For a company to hire a trans person and then not publicly stand by them is worse than not hiring a trans person at all.'

She said she once 'loved' Bud Light, noting that trans and queer people are 'customers too.'

But, she said 'turning a blind eye' isn't an option.

Mulvaney also admitted to hiding a can featuring her face on it - which sparked Kid Rock to shoot at several cases of the beer - and is no longer able find it.

Mulvaney said: 'I realized that I needed to protect this can so I hid it somewhere and I can't find it because I hid it so well.

'But when I do find it, I feel like it needs to go in a museum, preferably behind bullet-proof glass.

'One thing I will not tolerate people saying about me is that I don't like beer because I love beer and I always have.'

Mulvaney spoke out for the first time last week since the ad aired, slamming Anheuser Busch for not standing up for her in the aftermath

She claimed she was 'scared to leave my house' and insisted the beer maker reached out to her about a partnership

Mulvaney also said in the video she hid a can featuring her face on it and can no longer find it

In the aftermath, Anheuser-Busch released a statement saying it is 'committed committed to the programs and partnerships' they have forged with the LGBTQ+ community.

In the statement, they said: 'The privacy and safety of our employees and our partners is always our top priority.

'As we move forward, we will focus on what we do best  brewing great beer for everyone and earning our place in moments that matter to our consumers.'

It came just days after CEO Brendan Whitworth was slammed for refusing to rule out if the company would partner with Mulvaney again - and avoided answering how much the marketing blunder had cost Bud Light.

Speaking to CBS Mornings, Whitworth was asked if he would send Mulvaney another can, knowing the backlash that it sparked.

But instead of giving a definitive answer, the CEO instead launched into a pre-rehearsed speech about the 'social conversation' that the disaster campaign caused

Whitworth added that they 'need to deeply understand the consumer' and 'appreciate' what they want' from the brand, as he was blasted on social media for doing a 'dismal job'.

He was then challenged over his refusal to answer, with Tony Dokoupil asking if the decision was a mistake - but again avoided the question.
More than 600 'blue-chip' bottles were stolen, some costing upwards of $5,000

Footage shows the thieves cutting a hole in the ceiling to access the wines

Wines from France and Italy were stolen from Lincoln Fine Wines in Venice

Thieves got away with over $700,000 in rare wines imported from France and Italy during a break-in at a Los Angeles area wine shop over the weekend.

Video captured the thieves cutting a hole in the ceiling of Lincoln Fine Wines, just above the cellar where some of his most expensive wines were stored.

The thief reportedly used rope to climb down into the cellar from the roof and stayed inside for several hours, stealing hundreds of bottles from the establishment.

The owner, Nazmul Haque Helal, said some of the 'blue-chip' bottles stolen by the group cost $5,000 a pop and that they stole 75 percent of the high-end items.

'They cleaned it out,' said Helal. 'They took everything, so we don't have anything left in the Burgundy and Bordeaux side.'

Thieves got away with over $700,000 in rare wines imported from France and Italy during a break-in at a Los Angeles area wine shop over the weekend

Video captured the thieves cutting a hole in the ceiling of Lincoln Fine Wines, just above the cellar where some of his most expensive wines were stores

The break-in began just after midnight on June 30 at the store on Lincoln Boulevard.

The unidentified burglar is seen hiding behind a mask and wearing a dark 'Anti-Social Social Club' hoodie while carrying a case through the store.

The thief remained in the store until nearly 4am, Haque said, walking the aisles and grabbing more than 600 bottles from the prestigious wine collection.

'It's like I'm shocked, you know, because you don't expect these things,' said Haque.

'So when you see something happen you don't expect ... I don't know how long it will take to recover. It's not only financial, it's emotional,' he told ABC 7.

The owner said he had spent decades crafting his collection and that many of the 'blue-chip' bottles cannot be replaced.

Blue-chip bottles are wines that are considered 'stable investments,' according to Vinfolio. These wines have values that are expected to climb over time.

'My collection started 16, 17 years [ago],' he said. 'I have a lot of French Burgundy that's just hard to get.'

One of the suspects was seen hopping on top of this metal container and sawing a hole in the top in order to access the fine and expensive wines

'They cleaned it out,' said store owner Nazmul Haque Helal. 'They took everything, so we don't have anything left in the Burgundy and Bordeaux side'

A white truck was believed to have been involved in the break-in

Haque (pictured) said he spent nearly two decades curating his collection of fine wines

Outside surveillance footage showed a white pickup truck circling the building before the suspect approached the building.

After the thief left, the white truck was spotted driving away as well.

Haque said he believes multiple people were involved and that the thieves knew exactly what they were looking for in this 'extremely large and planned burglary.'

The store's owner is offering a $10,000 reward for information leading to the capturing the culprits.

Haque is offering a $10,000 reward for information leading to the capturing the culprits. Pictured: Empty racks of wine sit in the cellar after the break-in at Lincoln Fine Wines

Haque's now warning other business owners to take precautions including adding better security cameras to their establishments throughout their businesses.

'I'm trying to send this message to all our business people of the neighborhood,' Haque said.

'I want to tell everything that they can be cautious and they can prevent this loss.'

The owner also said he is planning on sending a list of the stolen wines to local stores and auction houses to be on the lookout.

Anyone with information is encouraged to reach out to the Los Angeles Police Department with tips.
Five people have been charged following a Just Stop Oil stunt which saw protesters blocking the parade at London Pride.

Members of the eco-group sat in front of a Coca-Cola company float to protest the company's use of plastic.

Ben Plumpton, 68, of Underbank Avenue, Charlestown, Calderdale, Zosia Lewis, 22, of Melbourne Street, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, Oliver Clegg, 20, of Olney Street, Manchester, Gosse Bootsma, 25, of no fixed address and Callum Goode, 23, of Ashbourne, Derbyshire, were arrested on Saturday.

They have been charged under the Public Order Act with behaviour likely to cause harassment, alarm or distress and were bailed to attend Westminster Magistrates' Court in London on Tuesday, Scotland Yard said.

Two other men, aged 19 and 22, have been released on bail pending further inquiries, the force added.

Police lead a Just Stop Oil protester away after the eco group targeted this year's Pride festival

Black and pink paint was also sprayed across the road as the protesters slammed Pride for failing 'to address and take responsibility'

All seven were arrested at about 1.25pm on Saturday, after Just Stop Oil activists disrupted the march at Down Street, Piccadilly.

They accused Coca-Cola of being 'the world's worst plastic polluter, accused of numerous human rights abuses'.

A spokesperson said Pride had failed to address their relationship with 'destructive industries' that use the event to 'pinkwash' their reputations.

They addedd: 'These partnerships embarrass the LGBTQ+ community, at a time when much of the cultural world is rejecting ties to these toxic industries.

'We call on Pride to remember the spirit in which it was founded and to respect the memory of all those who fought and died to secure the rights we now possess, whilst taking the necessary steps to protect our community long into the future.'

Legendary LGBTQ+ rights campaigner Peter Tatchell said: 'Climate destruction is destroying communities, jobs, homes and lives across the world, especially in poorer countries.

'Our community must not collude with environment, species and climate destroying companies.'

Black and pink paint was also sprayed across the road as the protesters slammed Pride for failing 'to address and take responsibility' for its damaging relationships.

Parade participants and onlookers who had travelled to the capital were frustrated by the disruption.

Some even attempted to negotiate with the protesters as they sat on the ground but to no avail.

After 16 minutes, seven protesters were arrested for public nuisance offences and the parade continued again one minute later.

Video posted online showed officers picking up protesters and carrying them away.

Some even attempted to negotiate with the 'attention-seeking' protesters as they sat on the ground

In a tweet, the Metropolitan Police said: 'At 13:30 hours a small number of protestors sat down in the road at Piccadilly junction with Down Street causing the #PrideInLondon Parade to stop.

'At 13:46 hours, seven people were arrested for public nuisance. At 13:47 hours the road was cleared and the Parade has continued.'

Neil, 49, from East London, was watching the parade when the protesters ran out in front of him and blocked the Coca-Cola truck.

'There was about eight of them I think,' he said.

'Eight people spoiling fun for thousands of people. They want the attention don't they?

'And until they get the attention they'll sit themselves down.'
Two of the three bandits have been arrested in their cross-country robbery scheme

Surveillance footage captured the woman stealing nearly $1,500 worth of makeup on May 28 at the Ulta store in Colorado

The trio hail from Romania have been dubbed the 'Wheat Ridge Kardashians'

Cops have nabbed two of the three glam squad robbery trio but are still on the hunt for one of the bandits who are accused of robbing makeup stores in Chicago, California and Colorado.

Their latest hit took place at the Ulta store in Colorado on May 28 where they snagged $1,443 worth of makeup. Surveillance footage captured the heist.

Two of the women were caught in California and taken into custody for 'similar incidents,' but the third makeup crusader is still on the run.

The women's names have not been revealed or the exact charges they face, but the trio hail from Romania and have been dubbed the 'Wheat Ridge Kardashians' by police in Wheat Ridge, Colorado, due in part, to their dark hair, long fingernails and glamorous appearances.

After the theft, the Wheat Ridge Police Department went to Facebook and wrote a humorous post about the Kardashian look-alike suspects that blew up the internet garnering more than 24,000 views.

One of the woman from the glam squad is seen holding some makeup in her hands at the Ulta store before the May 28 robbery took place

A second woman who is part of the makeup crusade looking equally as glamorous with her long fingernails and jewelry

The third suspect pictured. It is not clear which of the two women have been caught

The post titled: 'MISSED CONNECTIONS UPDATE WE MADE A LONG-DISTANCE CONNECTION!'

'Much like the Kardashians, it turns out our girls are international. And apparently they are comfortable with an open relationship because they've had 'dates' with several other police departments across the country, most recently in Chicago and now California. But they hail from Romania.'

The department then shared a humorous fake-romance backstory.

'We locked eyes with this trio (via surveillance footage) on May 28th when they walked into the Wheat Ridge Ulta to restock.

'They loaded $1,443 worth of products into their own bags (at least they were being environmentally friendly about the theft), then bypassed the register and left with their freebies.'

'We posted their pics here in hopes of connecting with them at the police department for a little photo shoot and then our first trip together (probably to the Taj Mahal Jefferson Co peeps IYKYK), but another police department in Cali connected with them first, where at least two of them are in custody for similar incidents in that jurisdiction,' they wrote.

'So we will wait our turn. Love is nothing if not patient.'

'The Wheat Ridge Police Department and Detective Smith in particular thank you for the worldwide effort to help us locate 'the ones who got away.'

With much love and adulation for the power of the internet, the post reads.

The post made such a hit that one person who doesn't live in the state clearly didn't want the laughs to end.

'Can I follow your police dept even if I live in the other side of the country?,' they wrote.' 'This has to be hands down the best police dept ever!! Much love to you all, stay safe and thank you for the laughs!!'

The Ulta that the women robbed merchandise from was in Wheat Ridge, Colorado

The Wheat Ridge Police Department Facebook post that went blew up the internet with its 'tongue-and-cheek' humor

Another said: 'This is one for the books. Props to your social media manager!!! Absolutely hilarious.'

'This is absolute perfection! Great job with the satirical social media posts! They are classic! Keep it up!,' wrote another.

While another viewer felt their post would help her stay more vigilant.

'I love this post. Very creative,' they wrote. 'Now that we all know what they look like we can keep an eye out.'
Pete Buttigieg accused Ron DeSantis of 'competing' with Donald Trump over who can hurt the LGBTQ community more while torching his campaign video marking the end of Pride Month.

The Transportation secretary roasted the Florida governor for trying to 'prove his manhood' with a video comparing him to an 'oiled-up bodybuilder' and Leonardo DiCaprio depicting the infamous Jordan Belfort in Wolf of Wall Street.

'I just don't understand the mentality of somebody who gets up in the morning thinking that he's going to prove his worth by competing over who can make life hardest for a hard-hit community that is already so vulnerable in America,' Buttigieg said in an interview with CNN's State of the Union on Sunday morning.

Buttigieg, who ran for the Democratic primary in 2020 before being hired onto Biden's administration, is gay and has been married to his husband Chasten since 2018. The couple adopted twin babies in August 2021.

DeSantis's campaign was accused of homophobia after tweeting out a video highlighting Trump's support of the LGBTQ community, contrasting it with a montage of the governor's policies that have been branded by critics as anti-gay.

Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg roasted Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis for his campaign video 'competing' with Trump 'over who can make life hardest' for the LGBTQ community

'I'm gonna choose my words carefully, partly because I'm appearing as secretary, so I can't talk about campaigns,' Buttigieg told CNN in reference to the 'strangeness of trying to prove your manhood by putting up a video that splices images of you in between oiled-up, shirtless bodybuilders'

The clip shows Trump promising to protect LGBTQ citizens, saying Caitlyn Jenner could use whichever bathroom she chose inside Trump Tower, and welcoming trans contestants on Miss Universe. After footage of Trump, the video cuts to a montage of DeSantis striding in a 'manly' fashion across the screen, to a thumping, bass-heavy soundtrack.

Headlines flash across the screen detailing how DeSantis signed the 'most extreme slate of anti-trans laws in modern history' and outlawed drag shows in schools.

'You know, I'm gonna choose my words carefully, partly because I'm appearing as secretary, so I can't talk about campaigns,' Buttigieg told CNN host Dana Bash in response to the video.

'I'm gonna leave aside the strangeness of trying to prove your manhood by putting up a video that splices images of you in between oiled-up, shirtless bodybuilders  and just get to the bigger issue that is on my mind whenever I see this stuff in the policy space,' he added. 'Which is, again, who are you trying to help? Who are you trying to make better off? And what public policy problems do you get up in the morning thinking about how to solve?'

Biden's Transportation secretary insisted: 'We're focused as an administration on how to get things done and make people better off.'

DeSantis' new campaign video was broadcast on the same day both he and Trump were in Philadelphia for a Moms for Liberty gathering - which saw one Trump supporter described his 44-year-old rival as a Trump 'knock off'.

Clips in the video include a smiling DeSantis interspersed with images of Christian Bale as a serial killer in American Psycho, references to The Wolf of Wall Street, and images of Brad Pitt in the film Troy.

Buttigieg is gay and has been married to husband Chasten since 2018, the two adopted twins in August 2021

Donald Trump is seen in the clip at the Republican National Convention in July 2016, referencing the horror of the Pulse nightclub shooting the previous month and promising to protect the LGBTQ population

Trump greets Caitlyn Jenner, saying she could use whichever bathroom she chose at Trump Tower

A pro-Trump drag queen dressed as 'Lady MAGA' is seen voicing her support for the then-candidate

DeSantis' campaign celebrated in the video his laws in Florida critics have slammed as anti-LGBTQ  and slammed Trump for advancing the 'woke' agenda of the LGBTQ community

The video comes as DeSantis's polling remains stubbornly low, with Trump significantly ahead among primary voters.

A YouGov poll for The Economist carried out from June 24-27 gave Trump a 27 point lead over the Florida governor.

Trump was at 52 percent, and DeSantis at 25 percent.

On Friday, Trump and DeSantis were both in Philadelphia, attempting to outflank each other on the right.

Trump told the crowd at the Moms for Liberty group that he would 'eliminate all diversity, equity and inclusion programs across the entire federal government.'

DeSantis vowed to enact at a federal level his Florida policies on LGBTQ discussions in schools and bathrooms.

'What we've seen across this country in recent years has awakened the most powerful political force in this country: mama bears,' he told the crowd of hundreds, to roars of applause.

'We've done so much on these issues in Florida, and I will do all this as the next president.'

But his message still failed to resonate.

Attendee Alexis Spiegelman of Sarasota, Florida, told the New York Times that she felt DeSantis was merely a knock-off of the former Apprentice host.

'I just don't know why we would want a knockoff when we have the real, authentic Trump,' she said.

DeSantis is seen on Friday addressing the Moms for Liberty gathering in Philadelphia

DeSantis is shown in the campaign ad rejecting the support for the LGBTQ community espoused by Trump

The video showed DeSantis signing anti-trans laws

The clip promoted DeSantis's policies against the LGBTQ community

Alexis Spiegelman, who leads the Moms for Liberty chapter in Sarasota, Florida, told The New York Times: 'I just don't know why we would want a knockoff when we have the real, authentic Trump.'

DeSantis's strategy of trying to position himself to the right of Trump was also questioned by Republican strategists.

'The consultants who think this kind of 'running to Trump's right' is going to be effective should be sacked,' said Sarah Longwell, CEO of conservative firm Longwell Partners.

Andrew Clark, a Republican strategist who worked on Trump's 2020 campaign, said DeSantis promoting himself as someone who will roll back LGBTQ rights was a bad electoral approach.

'Lots of issues with this video,' he tweeted.

'Chiefly, the opening line from Trump saying 'I'll do everything in my power to protect our LGBTQ citizens' as if that's a huge hit?

'Is DeSantis opposed to protecting LGBTQ citizens?

'I get the message they were going for, but damn this isn't it.'

Chadwick Moore, a contributing editor of The Spectator, said: 'This ad is a completely unnecessary, thoroughly ill-conceived slap in the face to a lot of people. Really stupid whoever approved this. Extremely dumb.'

Former Republican congressman Adam Kinzinger said: 'So Desantis thinks this is going to work? Highly doubt it.

'Outrage after outrage is the only way these guys know how to campaign.'

Greg Kelly, the flame-throwing Newsmax host, said DeSantis was wrong to bring Caitlyn Jenner into his campaign, defending her as a true Republican and someone to be respected.

'WOW! Ron DeSantis Desperately Attacking CAITLYN JENNER-What's Ron's problem?' tweeted Kelly.

'CAITLYN JENNER Stands Strong AGAINST sexualizing Kids, is FOR protecting Biological WOMEN in sports. 'Ron' is WRONG about MAGA if he thinks BUSTING on Caitlyn is cool. APOLOGIZE RON!'

And Ric Grenell, the first openly gay person to serve in a presidential cabinet, who was briefly Trump's acting Director of National Intelligence, said: 'This is undeniably homophobic.'
Shocking footage captures the moment axe-wielding robbers made off with boxes of cash after they assaulted delivery drivers employed to replenish ATM machines.

The masked men were captured on CCTV and vehicle security cameras on three different occasions, each time threatening the drivers before escaping with the cash box in hand.

In one of the terrifying clips, two armed men dressed in black are seen leaving the scene with a cash box.

Footage also shows another raid in which two men charge into a convenience store armed with an axe, before leaving the scene with bags and boxes of money.

Every robbery saw a guard attacked by the masked group with an axe and the gang tried to cover their tracks by using hire cars and wearing balaclavas, police said.

Three men, who stole a total of 260,000 from cash-in-transit delivery drivers, have all been jailed for a combined total of 27 years.

Nathan Kennedy, 42, was sentenced to seven years behind bars for his part in the crimes

Paul Dunn, 34, who was sentenced to 14 years in jail, had gambled away the stolen cash with 'little success'

Liam McCloy, 35, who received six years in prison, was stopped by police when officers boarded a plane as it touched back down in the UK following a family holiday

Paul Dunn, 34, Nathan Kennedy, 42, and Liam McCloy, 35, all pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit robbery.

Dunn was jailed for 14 years, while Kennedy was sentenced to seven years behind bars, and McCloy was received six years in prison.

Despite trying to cover their tracks, the three men left a paper trail after money was deposited into Dunn's and Kennedy's bank account, leading investigators straight to their doorsteps.

Dunn had gambled away the stolen cash with 'little success', police added.

According to Greater Manchester Police, every robbery saw a guard attacked by the masked group with an axe

Two men are again captured on camera charging into a convenience store armed with an axe, before leaving the scene with bags and boxes of money

Dunn and Kennedy were held by police last August, when they executed warrants across Greater Manchester.

Officers found multiple messages on Kennedy's phone to Dunn and McCloy, which fit in with the timeline of offences.

A sum of 1,000 was also found hidden in his house.

Meanwhile, McCloy was stopped by police when officers boarded a plane as it touched back down in the UK following a family holiday.

Police said the gang tried to cover their tracks by using hire cars and wearing balaclava

CCTV footage captured one of the armed raids in a convenience store

Police said McCloy tried to hide his phone, but it was recovered by officers who found phone numbers attributed to Kennedy and Dunn.

Further examination of the phone showed he had attempted to delete dozens of incriminating messages between the trio.

Detective Inspector Rick Castley said: 'This was a series of terrifying incidents that saw members of the public, who were simply doing their job, seriously assaulted by masked men armed with weapons and scared for their lives.

'Their robbery spree days are now over.'

Sarah Staff, director of the British Security Industry Association, added: 'This series of robberies involved extreme violence against staff whilst they carried out ATM replenishments.

'The sentences received reflects the seriousness of this offending and on behalf of the industry I would thank all those involved in this investigation for their tireless work in apprehending those involved.'
An Aldi customer was left horrified after discovering a young ladder snake hiding in his bag of broccoli.

Neville Linton, 63, said finding the reptile, which is capable of a nasty bite, in his super greens was a 'frightening' experience.

The grandfather told how he bought the vegetable from an Aldi branch in Stourbridge, West Midlands, last month and stored it in the fridge before taking it out to prepare a meal three days later.

Upon removing the plastic packaging on his kitchen counter, he found the non-venomous snake tucked up near the stem.

Mr Linton, who works in industrial cleaning, is scared of snakes so relatives jumped in to scoop up the creature.

Neville Linton, 63, said discovering the young ladder snake in the vegetable - which is capable of a nasty bite - was a 'frightening' experience

Mr Linton (right), who works in industrial cleaning, is scared of snakes so relatives (like his son Donovan, left) jumped in to scoop up the reptile

He bought the broccoli from an Aldi branch in Stourbridge (pictured), West Midlands, on June 2 and stored it in the fridge before taking it out to prepare a meal three days later

It was later taken to nearby Dudley Zoo where it was identified as a ladder snake.

The species is from south western Europe and, although not venomous, can give humans a nasty nip.

Mr Linton, from Birmingham, said: 'It was pretty frightening. I'm not good with snakes.

'It's lucky I didn't just leave the broccoli out in the kitchen, or it would have been loose in the house.

'That would have been a huge risk for us because we have two vulnerable people living here.'

Once he realised the creature cuddling up to his broccoli was too big to be a caterpillar, he called for his sister Ann-Marie Tenkanemin, 57, who identified it as a snake.

Ladder snakes are mostly found in Portugal, Spain, southern France and parts of Italy. They can become aggressive when threatened and are capable of letting off a foul odour

The pair popped it in a tub and drove it back to the Aldi store in Dudley Road where Mr Linton had bought the veg.

He said: 'I thought she was joking at first, but I backed off when I saw it start moving. The guy in the shop was pretty frightened too.'

The snake was taken to Dudley Zoo where it was identified as a young ladder snake by a specialist, said Mr Linton's 41-year-old son Donovan.

Mr Linton has been offered compensation, but is pushing for more.

The father-of-three said the amount offered does not compensate him for the risk to his disabled son and vulnerable mother-in-law, who live with him.

He added: 'It's just not good enough - the implications for us if it had got out in the house are huge. Plus, I'm phobic of snakes so there's the emotional impact of that too.'

An Aldi spokesperson said: 'Our supplier has never had a complaint of this nature and has robust processes in place to prevent such issues occurring.

'We are investigating this isolated incident and have apologised to Mr Linton that our usual high standards were not met.'

Ladder snakes are mostly found in Portugal, Spain, southern France and parts of Italy.

They can become aggressive when threatened and are capable of letting off a foul odour.
A mother and her two children who died in a house fire have been pictured for the first time - as the man believed to be their father fights for his life in hospital.

Gemma Germeney, 31, her daughter Lilly Peden, eight, and son Oliver Peden, four, were all killed in the blaze which destroyed the family's two-storey maisonette in Cambridge in the early hours of Friday morning.

A man in his 30s, who has not been named yet, escaped from the burning property but remains in a critical condition in Addenbrooke's Hospital.

He is believed to be Ms Germeny's partner, Scott Peden, who is the father of her two children.

Their two dogs are also believed to have perished in the fire.

Locals described hearing screams as flames burst out of the windows of the family's home on Sackville Close, in the King's Hedges area of Cambridge.

Gemma Germeney (left), 31, her daughter Lilly Peden (bottom right), eight, and her son Oliver Peden (bottom left), four, were all fatally injured in the fire. The man believed to be her partner, Scott Peden (back right) is fighting for his life

Lilly Peden, eight, and Oliver Peden, four, who both died in hospital following the tragic house fire

Locals described hearing screams as flames burst out of the windows of the family's ground and first floor maisonette (pictured) in Sackville Close, in the King's Hedges area of Cambridge

The alarm was raised as the fire took hold shortly after 1am on Friday, but details of the fatalities were only released yesterday.

Police kept the scene of the tragedy cordoned off as officers, joined by the fire service, attempted to establish the cause of the blaze.

The walls of property have been left charred black, and the windows smashed, as a result of the intense heat and smoke.

Around 30 firefighters which included crews from Cambridge, Cottenham, Cambourne, Linton, Burwell and Huntingdon were all involved in helping tackle the flames.

Despite fire crews battling to stop the fire from spreading to adjoining properties, a child from a neighbouring home was also taken to hospital.

It is believed that the child suffering from smoke inhalation, but was not seriously hurt.

A neighbour who asked not to be named said: 'I was woken up by what I thought was a car alarm, but it must have been a smoke alarm going off.

'Then I heard a lot of shouting and commotion. A man's voice was yelling, 'Call the fire brigade' and 'Call an ambulance'.

'There was smoke billowing everywhere and I could see flames, and hear the sounds of windows smashing.

Gemma Germeney (left) and her eight-year-old daughter Lilly Peden (right) who traigcally died along with four-year-old Oliver

Both police and firefighters were on the scene on Sackville Close (pictured)

More than 30 firefighters rushed to a flat in King's Hedges ward, Cambridge at 1.08am

Firefighters from five separate Cambridgeshire crews attended the tragic incident

'The first two fire engines arrived within a few minutes and they quickly got the fire under control.

'I didn't realise how serious it was until I saw some stretchers being wheeled out. It was absolutely horrific.

'I think there was a child on one of the stretchers and they were receiving CPR.'

Another neighbour who asked to stay anonymous said: 'I was woken up by screaming just after 1am and I thought it was someone having an argument.

'A few minutes later, I was woken up properly by fire engines turning up. I looked out of my window and saw flames everywhere. They were coming out of the ground floor window and going up the wall.

'The ambulances could not get near because of all the fire engines. I saw the stretchers being wheeled past to get to the ambulances, and a policeman carrying a child who looked like a boy.

'There were loads of fire engines, two ambulances and police cars. It was just mayhem. I had never seen so many people out there.'

Data analyst Peter Griffin, 30, who lives nearby said: 'I was woken up by the first fire engine - but our neighbour said he heard shouting before that.

'There are trees between our house and the maisonette. I could see the orange glow of the fire. There was also an acrid smell of smoke.

'I think the family who lived in the maisonette had a large dog. It is just an awful tragedy.'

Area Commander Stuart Smith of Cambridgeshire Fire and Rescue Service said: 'This is a devastating and deeply upsetting incident that will touch many people.

'Our thoughts are with the relatives, friends and neighbours of the family. It's just heartbreaking.

A police scientific support unit van was among the emergency vehicles at the scene on Friday afternoon

A cordon remained in place today as emergency services attempted to establish the cause of the blaze

'We know this will have a huge impact on the local community and our fire safety team was in the area visiting residents yesterday to provide fire safety information and reassurance and will be returning next week.

'A fire like this is one of the toughest incidents you can attend as a firefighter and we're looking after the welfare of all those who responded to or supported this incident.'

A Cambridgeshire Fire and Rescue Service spokesperson said the alarm was raised at 1.08am on Friday.

The spokesperson added: 'Crews arrived to find smoke issuing from the ground and first floor of a two storey maisonette. Crews worked hard to extinguish the fire and prevent it from spreading to neighbouring properties.

'A man in his 30s managed to escape the flat before crews arrived, however he suffered serious injuries and was taken to hospital where he remains in a critical condition.

'Two children, a boy and a girl, were rescued by firefighters. They received treatment at the scene by firefighters and paramedics but tragically both later died in hospital. Sadly, a woman in her 30s also died at the scene.

'An investigation to establish the cause of the fire started yesterday and will continue over the weekend.'

Cambridge mayor Jenny Gawthrope Wood said: 'I know that the residents of King's Hedges and the whole city will share my shock and sorrow at the loss of life in Sackville Close. To lose loved ones in such tragic circumstances is so terribly hard to bear.

'I know that our council officers will provide support wherever they can. I offer my sincere condolences to the families and friends of the victims of this shocking event.'

Inside were a young boy, aged 4, and girl, 8, who were later rescued but died in hospital

A Cambridge City Council spokesperson said: 'People will be shocked and distressed to hear about this incident in their local community and we are working to provide support to those people who have been directly affected, including the occupants of neighbouring properties.

'We are also working closely with our emergency service partners and we will support their investigation into its cause. Our thoughts are with the victims, their loved ones and all of the people who have been affected.'

An East of England Ambulance Service spokesperson said: 'Three ambulances, three Hazardous Area Response Team vehicles, two ambulance officer vehicles and response cars from the East Anglian Air Ambulance and Essex and Herts Air Ambulance were called out in the early hours of Friday June 30 to a serious house fire in Sackville Close in Cambridge.

'The ambulance service would like to extend its deepest sympathies to all those affected by this tragic incident.'
On a 3-mile stretch of road alongside East Rosebud Creek, visitors used to cruise 20 mph or faster, maybe complaining about the bumps and dust raised by the car in front of them.

Then last June, much of this graveled road disappeared, gobbled up by the creeks voracious floodwaters that swelled the stream to historically high flows.

What used to take minutes to breeze along in a car now takes an hour or more to hike, I discovered on a recent visit. Without the road, we were forced to slow down and explore an area long overlooked. A short stretch of the Custer Gallatin National Forest that once teemed with recreationists was now eerily empty and quiet.

East side

The hike to East Rosebud Lake began at Jimmy Joe Campground, roughly 11 miles south of the small community of Roscoe. A mile of new road extended to the creek before we had to pick our poison  either ford the raging waters and hike up the west side, or stay dry and venture down the eastern bank. We pondered the swift waters, and then decided it wiser to stick to solid ground.

Unbeknownst to us the path, where it ephemerally existed, would be especially tortuous. Hikers have to duck through dense stands of pollen-puffing lodgepole pine, brave shin-scraping willows, wade through mucky marsh as ripe-smelling as sewage, and crawl up and down steep cliffs with loose soil and rocks before hopping across boulder fields.

Parkour practitioners would love this challenge. Old guys like me and my buddy just got torn up, blistered and sore from stretching, side-hilling, tip-toeing and bushwhacking. My hardest hikes have always been the ones without trails, where Im picking and choosing my own path, bobbing and weaving through brush and branches, cursing downfall and dead-end routes. This one was no exception.

Along the way we were yelling and whooping in hopes of alerting any snoozing bears or moose to our presence in the dense foliage. The skeleton of a long-tailed, canine-fanged creature  a fox or raccoon?  hinted at one animals demise in the underbrush.

Even when the path diverted us streamside  a feeling of freedom once released from the clutch and confinement of thick foliage  the route still remained tortuous. We wandered among the flood debris of uprooted trees, scoured out channels and mounds of rock  so much rock. In places, the stone dunes were so dense that  even though the creek was raging in a white froth only 20 yards away  the waters sound was dampened to a dull hush.

Superpower

Pausing atop a creek-scoured hill provided a 180-degree view of the widened stream channel, scraps of remaining road and a nearly washed out cabin  the damaging extent of the storms rage.

I considered how 10,000 years ago the entire valley had been scrubbed clean by glaciers. Now the baring of the basins underlying rubble was a reminder that it had taken thousands of years to build up the soil in such a harsh, mountainous area. But it only took a few days of rapidly rushing water to hose off that delicate dirt and the vegetation clinging to it for life.

That made me think: If I were granted a superpower, the ability to focus the force of water may be the most all-powerful skill  a different kind of Aquaman, an Earth-bound Poseidon commanding a hellacious hose. I wondered: Did the Chinese workmen controlling hydraulic hoses in the 1800s, next to what is now Canyon Ferry Reservoir, revel in the power of high-pressure water as they eroded entire hillsides in the search for gold? Those water cannons could shoot 185,000 cubic feet of water every hour with a velocity of 150 feet per second, according to the U.S. Geological Survey. Although impressive, that force of water would look puny compared to what roared down the East Rosebud canyon last June.

Freedom

About two-thirds of the way into our hike, enthusiasm for the adventure was departing our bodies as fast as the sweat that soaked our shirts. If that last cliff hadnt eventually led to a wide meadow filled with the sweet perfume of wild rose blossoms and painted with purple lupine we might have given up. Instead, we were rejuvenated by being able to walk unencumbered.

Off to our right a barrier of thick, short pine trees blocked our route to East Rosebud Lake  the final destination. We kept walking uphill, hoping for an opening, only to find more trees around each corner. Taking a final plunge, we crouched and fought our way through the tightly knit forest, a breaststroke through branches. The remains of a deer fawn demonstrated that not all who ventured in came out alive.

Eventually, like divers emerging from the depths, we gasped for air as we stepped out onto the hillside overlooking the lake and surrounding mountains.

Is it Switzerland? the old postcard questions in cursive scrawled across its black-and-white bottom. My friend found it in his grandmothers collection of memorabilia, guessing it was from around the 1940s. No, it is in the East Rosebud Lake Country, Bear Tooth Mts. Montana, the postcard revealed.

The mountains still look the same, only the cows are now missing from the foreground. Last years flood had not affected this view until we scanned to the far right where Armstrong Creek descends the mountainside. There, a house sits in the middle of a wide swath of rock now blasted free of topsoil by the flood. That the structure remained standing is hard to believe. The creeks waters must have roared through the windows, walls and rafters.

Its not far from here that we see our first live creature. A young bull moose peeks from a thicket of pine. He seems as surprised to see us as we are to see him.

Back

Our return route is much easier, trekking beneath a powerline the route is relatively free of the dense trees we encountered on the east side of the creek. We cruise along at what seems like a fast pace until encountering the creek crossing again, the one we had initially avoided. My friend had hesitated coming back this way because of the rapids. I advocated for the route thinking this one section of troubled waters could more easily be conquered than wading back through all of the trees and rubble wed initially suffered.

Interlocking elbows we shuffled into the fast-moving stream, keeping our boots on for traction and stability among the slick, rounded rocks. Once amid the full force of the turbulence my friend suggested we take one step at a time and that I go first. I noted he was standing on my foot. And so we shuffled ungainly across, staggering arm in arm like drunks after closing time. The water rose to our crotches, tugging at our legs and feet to uproot us like the stream had done to so many trees. Luckily, we ambled out the other side unscathed, our hearts hammering hard from the exertion and fear. If one of us had went down, the other surely would have followed. Giddiness replaced dread.

Unfortunately, we were only halfway across, standing on a cobble island amid the creeks torrent. A large iron I-beam had been laid across the adjoining channel, providing a dry but narrow route to the opposite shore. Walking across the balance beam, while staring down at the rushing water, created an imaginary sense of movement and queasiness  motion sickness without actually moving. Despite the disorientation, we gingerly stepped across, fist-bumping in celebration once on solid ground after conquering our hikes final hurdle.

In the end, the treks mixture of awe  combined with a healthy dose of fear, sweat and strain  couldnt have taken place in a more beautiful setting. In the East Rosebud valley, the mountains rise like gothic cathedrals, bathed in dappled light cast between low-slung clouds. I returned to town with my spirit rejuvenated and my hips stiff and sore. It is humbling country. The hike was a reminder that even a short stretch of the East Rosebud valley, often overlooked en route to a glamorous lake, is worthy of respect, contemplation and admiration.
Police said the suspect had a .2 BAC, well above the .08 legal driving limit

Her Tesla slammed into a home and injured a person who was inside

Natasha Whittinghill-Engram has been charged with DUI after a May 19 crash

The wife of a Northern California sheriff now faces a DUI charge following a May crash where her Tesla struck a home and injured a person.

Natasha Whittinghill-Engram, 47, was recently charged with felony DUI resulting in bodily injury after allegedly having a BAC of over .2 during the May 19 crash. That is more than double the legal driving limit of .08.

Whittinghill-Engram - wife of Sonoma County Sheriff Eddie Engram - was arrested at the time after her Tesla struck a home in the 5200 block of Beaumont Way.

Shocking photos and videos show the wrecked vehicle with its entire front end stuck in the side of the Santa Rosa home where the homeowner was injured.

In a statement after her arrest, Sheriff Engram said he was 'greatly concerned' about his wife's well-being as well as the person who was inside the home and injured.

Natasha Whittinghill-Engram (left) has been charged with felony DUI resulting in bodily injury after allegedly having a BAC of over .2 during the May 19 crash

Whittinghill-Engram is the wife of Sonoma County Sheriff Eddie Engram

Shocking photos and videos show the wrecked vehicle with its entire front end stuck in the side of the Santa Rosa home where the homeowner was injured

Court documents stated Whittinghill-Engram officially faces two felony charges plus enhancements in the DUI crash.

In addition to the first felony DUI charge, she was also charged with felony DUI resulting in bodily injury with a blood alcohol content exceeding .08. The two enhancements are related to her BAC allegedly being over .2.

The woman was arrested by police in Santa Rosa in May after the crash.

Whittington-Engram was not injured, but the woman inside the home, Lorie Johnson, suffered minor injuries, KRON 4 reported.

Sheriff Engram confirmed his wife's involvement in the incident just hours after she had been arrested, sharing a post on Facebook detailing his thoughts.

The law enforcement official said he wanted his constituents to 'hear it from me first' while discussing the 'personal' and 'painful' message.

'Last night my wife was involved in a DUI crash. Her car hit a house, causing damage, and the one person inside the home was injured,' Engram wrote.

'As a husband, I am greatly concerned about my wife's well-being,' Engram wrote.

'As a citizen and Sheriff, I am also concerned about the well-being of the person inside the home who suffered injuries,' his post continued.

Court documents stated Whittinghill-Engram officially faces two felony charges plus enhancements in the DUI crash

'Last night my wife was involved in a DUI crash. Her car hit a house, causing damage, and the one person inside the home was injured,' Engram (pictured) wrote in May

'As a husband, I am greatly concerned about my wife's well-being,' Engram wrote in May. Pictured: Sheriff Engram and Whittinghill-Engram in 2022

Sheriff Engram said he would be recusing himself and leaving the investigation to the Santa Rosa Police Department to avoid any potential conflicts of interest.

Engram was elected to the position in November.

In an interview after the crash, Johnson told NBC 4 that she had been sitting peacefully in her recliner with her dog, watching TV.

'I heard the revving of the engine first, then I heard no breaks, and then I heard this crackle,' Johnson recalled.

The woman said before she knew it, the Tesla had smashed into the corner of the room and pushed glass, furniture, and her own TV at her.

She described it as though 'an earthquake with concrete [was] coming down.'

'The two-by-fours were laying on the side of me with nails, I had debris in my hair, I had sheet rock,' she said, telling the outlet she went into shock.

'[The driver] was airborne, she [was] airborne and it was stuck, and I saw her lights, I saw her blinkers and I heard her,' Johnson said.

The woman's husband, Mark Johnson, was asleep at the time and was awakened by the sounds of his wife's screams.

'I hear her screaming-- the love of my life,' he recalled through tears. 'It was just traumatic, I'm a big baby when it comes to this kind of stuff.'

'The two-by-fours were laying on the side of me with nails, I had debris in my hair, I had sheet rock,' Lorie Johnson (pictured) said, telling NBC 4 she went into shock after the crash

The woman's husband, Mark Johnson (pictured middle) had been asleep at the time and was awakened by the sounds of his wife's screams

Whittinghill-Engram has not yet entered a plea as of July 2.

DailyMail.com reached out to the woman's attorney, Martin Woods, who did not respond to a request for comment.

She is scheduled to go before a judge on August 8 to enter a plea and determine if there is enough evidence to go to trial.
A US expert on the Titanic wreck believes tourist visits will resume despite the catastrophic implosion of the OceanGate last month that took the lives of five people.

Jessica Sanders, president of Royal Mail Ship Titanic, Inc., spoke candidly regarding the submersible implosion that took the life of her colleague, revered French explorer Paul-Henri Nargeolet, one of the five victims, on the doomed vessel.

Though she shared her trepidation about the future of commercial expeditions since the catastrophic Titan tragedy, she also highlighted Nargeolet's beliefs. 'It's difficult because this one ended in a tragedy. But do I think the response is you should never be able to go? Then that contradicts a person that I deeply respected.'

Sanders said Nargeolet believed, 'it shouldn't be just for a handful of people who can afford to get there.'

She shared his conviction: 'Everybody should be able to see the artifacts, and it shouldn't be just a millionaire, a billionaire or the military or a filmmaker that can go down to the wreck site.'

A photo of the 21-foot OceanGate Titan in the waters that had the capacity to stay underwater for 96 hours before the vessel imploded on June 18 killing off five aboard

The scene of the Titanic 12,000 feet below the surface. The Titanic was discovered on September 1985 by underwater explorer Robert Ballard

A graph that shows where the Titanic wreckage is located and where the OceanGate Titan went into the water to visit the site

Sunday marks three weeks since the submersible likely imploded during a voyage to the wreckage of the Titanic, 12,500 feet beneath the Atlantic Ocean's surface before it imploded

OceanGate CEO Stockton Rush, 61, perished on June 18 along with British billionaire adventurer Hamish Harding, 58; Pakistani billionaire Shahzada Dawood, 48, his 19-year-old son Suleman and Nargeolet, 77.

Canadian police are considering whether 'criminal, federal, or provincial laws' were broken in the lead-up to the Titan submersible disaster.

The Royal Canadian Mounted Police will examine 'the circumstances that led to the deaths' of the five crew on board the sub and decide 'whether or not a full investigation is warranted'.

Their investigation was ongoing on Thursday, a day after it emerged human remains were found during the recovery mission and segments of the vessel were brought ashore.

It comes as a marine engineering professor claimed electrical failure could also have contributed to the disaster, following suggestions it was made from inappropriate materials.

CEO Stockton Rush made several claims to French Navy Veteran PH Nargeolet about the safety of the submersible

Five people were onboard Titan, including British billionaire adventurer Hamish Harding and Shahzada Dawood and his son Suleman, who was just 19

Debris from the Titan submersible, recovered from the ocean floor near the wreck of the Titanic, is unloaded from the ship Horizon Arctic at the Canadian Coast Guard

Sanders, whose organization locates and preserves artifacts from the Titanic, shared her concerns about tourist visits to the site and keeping the integrity of the 1912 shipwreck.

'There have been a lot of expeditions in the last couple of years. They say that they didn't do anything  We just need to verify,' Sanders told the New York Post.

She also spoke about her concerns and the risks involved when the OceanGate Titan began tourist expeditions.

The investigation is active but it appears that it is unlikely that the debris, which was located 1,600 feet from the bow (front) of the ship, caused damage to the Titanic wreck, she said.

Sanders pointed out that her team is trying to figure out a way to 'bring the wreck site to the public,' so their only option is not venturing into the deep sea.

Jessica Sanders (pictured) who heads up RMS Titanic Inc., pointed out that her team is trying to figure out a way to 'bring the wreck site to the public,' so their only option is not venturing into the deep sea

PH Nargeolet, 77, was an expert on the Titanic's wreckage and worked with a company which has recovered thousands of artifacts from the site

OceanGate's website still included pages advertising trips to the Titanic - just weeks after the disaster.

A page titled 'Titan Expedition - Explore the Titanic' was still available on Thursday, which offered a chance to dive to the shipwreck in the company's submersible.

The page also lists renowned French explorer PH Nargeolet, who perished on board the Titan, as an expert 'who may join you on [the] expedition'.

Since the implosion, many groups have halted any future expeditions to the Titan wreck for the rest of 2023, including The Explorers Club and deep-sea mapping firm Magellan.

The French diver, Nargeolet, was a director of the controversial firm accused of 'pillaging' thousands of items from the Titanic.

Nargeolet had spent two decades working with RMS Titanic Inc., which owns the sole salvage rights.

He was known as 'PH' and earned the nickname 'Mr. Titanic' as an expert on the 1912 wreck and led several expeditions for the US firm based in Georgia.

The explorer, who served as the director of underwater research for RMS Titanic Inc., had two adult children and owned a $1.5million home in New York state.

He had previously told how relatives of Titanic victims had told him they did not agree with his work with RMS Titanic Inc. - which filed for bankruptcy along with its parent firm in 2016 and came close to auctioning off the relics in their possession.

RMS Titanic Inc. operates 'Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition,' which has two locations in Las Vegas and Orlando that it says have been visited by more than 35million people.

Money salvaged from the Titanic wreck was ready to be auctioned off

A pocket watch found in the belongings of a third class passenger named William Henry Allen, found in the Titanic wreckage, is among a sampling of Titanic artifact that was auctioned off

But after the Titan disaster, politicians and relatives of the Titanic's passengers and crew have urged explorers to leave the wreck alone and stop recovering artifacts. Some have also called for relics from the wreck to be donated to a museum.

Gavin Robinson, the MP for East Belfast in the UK, where construction on the Titanic began in 1909, pointed out that the ship 'remains a maritime tomb for over 1,500 souls'.

He added there is an 'uncomfortable conflict between respectfully honoring the site and extreme tourism', and that 'issues around pilfering and profiteering have gone far beyond efforts that assist historical understanding' over the years.

Families of those who were on board when disaster struck on its maiden voyage in April 1912 have also called for potential tourists to leave the wreck as a 'grave site.'

In the Las Vegas exhibit, more than 400 artifacts and full-scale room re-creations are on display along with a 15-tonne section of Titanic's starboard hull. In Orlando, there are 300 items as well as room recreations and a three-ton section of Titanic's hull.

RMS Titanic Inc. insisted it is 'dedicated to preserving the legacy of the ship, wreck site and all her passengers', but critics have accused it of trying to 'profiteer' by 'pilfering and pillaging' the ship.

One relative of two Titanic victims has now called for the full treasure trove of relics to be donated to a museum.

Linda Reader, whose great grandfather and great uncle died in the 1912 disaster, said items should be available for all the world to see.

She told MailOnline: 'From a personal point of view I would like to see those artefacts put into a museum. That way many people can view them and not just a few.

'I don't agree with the artifacts being taken in the first place. They belong to family members of those who died and should have a say where they go. I have never agreed with artefacts being taken from the ship. It is a graveyard, and you do not plunder a graveyard.'

Reader, 63, of Southampton, plans to make a pilgrimage to Newfoundland later in the year to lay a wreath for her long-lost relatives.

Titanic leaves Southampton, England, on her maiden voyage on April 10, 1912

Her great-grandfather Arthur William May was a stoker/messman on the RMS Titanic and her great uncle, also called Arthur William May, was another stoker.

Jacqueline Hall, of Burslem, Staffordshire, who told DailyMail.com in a letter that her grandfather Harry Senior, was a stoker on the ship who survived.

She wrote: 'I cringe when I see Titanic fancy-dress parties and computer games. How disrespectful. I believe the ship is a grave site and should not be the focus of tourist trips.

'My grandfather managed to clamber onto the upside-down collapsible lifeboat B after being hit with oars. He never spoke about the horrific events of that night until he was dying of cancer 25 years later.'

She was writing in response to an article published in the Mail last week by Julie Cook, whose great-grandfather William Bessant was also a stoker and one of the 1,500 crew and passengers who died.

Cook wrote: 'It is high time we stopped this Titanic tourism and left the ship and her dead to rest.'

She also said: 'The Titanic sinking was a real-life tragedy, not a film. If we stop for a minute and imagine what it was really like for those on board, we can't help but feel a visceral horror at their plight  just as we do now, imagining the situation faced by those inside the missing submersible.

Cook had accepted an invitation two years ago by a US production firm to visit the wreck in an OceanGate vessel for a documentary, but it was canceled 'because of various problems involving the post-pandemic world, travel visas and so on'.

She added: 'Now, listening to news of the tragic disappearance of the sub, I feel sick with relief.'
Russia fears a deadly new bomb attack from Wagner following a blast in October

Russia has fears that Wagner fighters are plotting an attack on the 3billion Crimean Bridge, it has been claimed as tourists flocking to the Black Sea peninsula faced queues of up to seven hours while guards search every car for explosives.

Intense security checks were imposed over the weekend as passengers attempted to make their way across the ten-mile-long bridge linking annexed Crimea to the Russian mainland.

Moscow is understood to be on high alert amid fears that disgruntled Wagner rebels could plot an attack after their mercenary army was axed by Vladimir Putin in the wake of their mutiny.

It comes after the bridge - hailed as 'the construction of the century' when it was opened in 2018 - was heavily damaged in a mysterious bomb blast in October.

The bridge carries both road and rail traffic across the Kerch Strait between Russia and Crimea - which Moscow annexed in 2014. Three people were killed by the truck bomb - which Russia claimed was a terrorist act by Ukraine.

Russia has fears that Wagner fighters are plotting an attack on the 3billion Crimean Bridge. PIctured: Exiled Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin

The Kremlin is understood to be on high alert amid fears that disgruntled Wagner rebels could plot an attack after their mercenary army was axed by Vladimir Putin (pictured) in the wake of their mutiny

Intense security checks were imposed as passengers attempted to make their way across the ten-mile-long bridge linking annexed Crimea to the Russian mainland

A bomb blast in October on a truck crossing the bridge caused major damage to the Kerch Strait crossing which has since been repaired

Now the concerns are that Wagner fighters could stage an attack due to their anger that Putin may be reneging on a deal with the private army's leader Yevgeny Prigozhin in return for halting their armed revolt last month.

'Obviously, saboteurs are expected in Crimea,' stated Telegram channel InformNapalm.

'These were likely from Russia. And who is the most terrible saboteur in Russia now?

'That's right, Wagner PMC [Private Military Company] rebels.

'It is possible that some attentive people passed information to the FSB that the Wagnerites are preparing to bring explosives and ammunition to Crimea, because the agreements on the part of the Kremlin have not been fully implemented.'

Heavy searches on the bridge involved sending children for X-rays and inspecting the glove compartments of cars, the pro-Ukrainian outlet said.

Following Prigozhin's attempted coup, some of his Wagner fighters are expected to join him in his exile in Belarus, while others will join the Russian state army.

Russian officials remain paranoid over a new attack on the ten miles crossing (pictured) built as a vanity project by Vladimir Putin

Heavy searches on the bridge involved sending children for X-rays and inspecting the glove compartments of cars

Tourists were seen getting impatient with the security checks as Russian officials were on high alert

Tourists were flocking to the occupied Black Sea peninsula but every vehicle is being scrupulously searched for explosives

Yesterday, new satellite pictures showed that Prigozhin has built a new base for 8,000 of his Wagner fighters in Belarus.

Moving to Belarus was part of the deal the Kremlin struck with Prigozhin to end last weekend's rebellion that represented the biggest threat to Putin's authority since he took office more than 20 years ago and led the Russian despot to raise fears of a civil war.

Prigozhin and his fighters escaped prosecution and were offered refuge in Belarus by authoritarian President Alexander Lukashenko, who said his country could use their experience and expertise and offered the paramilitary group an 'abandoned military unit' to set up camp.

Now just days after their arrival, images provided by Planet Labs PLC show that dozens of tents have been erected within the past two weeks at the former military base outside Osipovichi, a Belarusian town 142 miles north of the Ukrainian border.

Black smoke billows from a fire on the Kerch bridge that links the Crimean peninsula to Russia

The blast ripped through the road and rail bridge which connects Crimea to Russia, killing three people, causing damage and igniting a huge fire. Pictured: The bridge on fire after the explosion on October 8

The bridge is important for Moscow, a vital transport link for moving military equipment to Russian soldiers fighting in Ukraine. Pictured: Workers restore the railway tracks on the Kerch bridge after the explosion

Pictured: Repair works are carried out on the Kerch bridge on November 19

It comes as many Wagner fighters are said to be unhappy over the choices they have been given and the winding down of the private mercenary group.

The Putin-appointed official in charge of transport in Crimea Nikolai Lukashenko said addressed the chaos on the Kerch Strait by saying: 'Staff numbers on the inspection lines have been increased and control over their work has been strengthened.

'We apologise to citizens for the inconvenience.'

One angry waiting tourist said: 'The situation is a nightmare. We didn't sleep at night.we are practically without water, food, and we have two small children.The system is completely dysfunctional.'

Another complained: 'We stood for three hours without moving.'

Many Russians cannot travel to Mediterranean destinations this summer because of visa curbs and Western sanctions due to Putin's raging war against Ukraine.

They are flocking to Crimea instead, even though it is potentially a war target.

The Russian rouble has also plummeted due to Putin's war making foreign travel out of reach for millions, leading them to risk summer vacations in the region.

Crimea is now in range of UK-supplied Storm Shadow missiles, but tourists are still surging to the stunning peninsula.

This is despite many beaches being dug with trenches in case Ukraine mounts a counteroffensive to grab back its territory.

Prigozhin appears to have built an army base (pictured) in Belarus for 8,000 of his fighters, satellite images show

Reports also suggest some beaches have been mined by the Russians in the traditional summer season vacation playground.

Elsewhere, Ukrainian president Volodymr Zelensky has warned that a 'serious threat' remains at the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant amid fears Putin's troops are preparing to blow up the facility.

He said Russia was 'technically ready' to provoke a localised explosion at the facility, citing Ukrainian intelligence as the source.

It comes after Russia launched an overnight drone attack on Kyiv and the surrounding region after a 12-day break.
A search is underway for the person who targeted multiple businesses in Northeast Washington, D.C., with explosive devices and a 'Molotov cocktail style object.'

The attacks happened just minutes apart at Truist Bank, Nike store, and a Safeway grocery in 'The District' overnight, according to the Metropolitan Police Department.

Police are seeking the help of the public to help nab the suspect and the department is offering a reward of up to $20,000.

There was damage at each site, police said, but no injuries were reported.

A search is underway for the person who targeted Truist Bank, Nike store, and Safeway in Northeast Washington, D.C. with explosive devices and 'Molotov cocktail style object'

The first incident happened at 4:30 a.m. Sunday morning when someone detonated an explosive device on the sidewalk outside the ATM at the Truist Bank on Washington Place NE and then fled the scene in a vehicle, MPD said.

Just minutes later, at approximately 4:36 a.m., the suspect detonated an explosive device on the sidewalk in front of the doors at the Nike Store on H Street.

The third offense happened at 4:45 a.m. when this time, the suspect threw a Molotov cocktail at the Safeway on 40th Street before fleeing.

Metropolitan police said that in all three incidents, it appears the suspect targeted commercial establishments but it did not appear the suspect targeted any members of the public.

No motive has been released in the attack, and police have not released a suspect description.

Anyone who may have any information about these incidents, including video or photos from any of the locations, is encouraged to call MPD at (202) 727-9099 or text your tip to the Department's TEXT TIP LINE at 50411.

The MPD currently offers a reward of up to $10,000 to anyone who provides information that leads to the arrest and conviction of the person or persons responsible for these offenses.

In partnership with MPD, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Washington Field Division, is offering an additional $10,000 - bringing the total possible reward amount in this case up to $20,000.
Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez said that the trio of recent Supreme Court rulings brings into question the 'legitimacy' of the bench's politicalization  and a new poll shows more than half of Americans agree.

The progressive congresswoman slammed rulings released in June as a 'dangerous creep towards authoritarianism' and doubled-down on her desire to restrict power of the Judicial Branch of the federal government.

Meanwhile, a new ABC News/Ipsos poll found that most Americans do agree with all three rulings compared tot those who disapprove.

Supreme Court decisions released include a ruling that stops colleges from setting affirmative actions quotas for admissions, another that struck down President Joe Biden's proposal forgive up to $20,000 in student loans and a third confirming that private businesses can refuse business to same-sex couples.

Rep. Ocasio-Cortez, known mostly by her initials AOC, accused the 6-3 conservative majority on the High Court of 'discriminating' against the LGBTQ community in the final of the three rulings.

Rep. AOC said the latest Supreme Court rulings bring into question its 'legitimacy'  and said the federal Judicial Branch is on the path toward 'authoritarianism as she pushes to strip the High Court of its power

A new ABC/Ipsos poll shows most Americans agree with the Supreme Court ruling that colleges cannot admit students based on race quotas and against President Joe Biden's student loan forgiveness plan

While 53 percent of respondents to the latest ABC/Ipsos poll say they think the justices rule 'mainly on the basis of partisan politics,' it appears the majority of Americans still do agree with the recent rulings.

The survey found that 52 percent of Americans approve of the ruling that stops colleges from using race as a determining factor in college admissions  a practice known as affirmative action. Another 32 percent said they disapproved of the ruling.

The other two rulings saw a bigger divide, but still saw approval of the rulings.

Forty-five percent of those polled approve of the Supreme Court striking down student loan forgiveness, while 40 percent disapprove.

The closest split was on the case ruling that a web designer did not have to create a wedding website for a gay couple because it went against his religious beliefs against same-sex marriage. While 43 percent approved of the decision, only 1 percent less said they disapproved.

The case did confirm an earlier Supreme Court ruling where a bakery was not forced to make a wedding cake for a same-sex marriage because it was against the owner's religion.

Critics feel that the ruling should fall under the same discrimination-based laws that gender, race and ethnicity fall. But the Court argues that it's an infringement on constitutional rights to force a business to cater to something that goes against their religion.

Due to the ability of former President Donald Trump to appoint three justices in his time as president, progressives have decried the Supreme Court for being partisan and have proposed packing it now that there is a Democrat in office.

Perhaps the most watched ruling was on challenges to President Joe Biden's student loan forgiveness plan, which was struck down

Additionally, the Supreme Court decided that college can no longer implement quotas that base admissions on an applicant's race  known as affirmative action, which was started to get more minorities admitted into universities

Others, like AOC, have also proposed diluting the power of the Judicial Branch.

'The courts, if they were to proceed without any check on their power, without any balance on their power, then we will start to see an undemocratic and, frankly, dangerous authoritarian expansion of power in the Supreme Court,' AOC said in an interview with CNN's State of the Union.

She slammed rulings that started coming out last year when the Court overturned Roe v. Wade  stiping federal abortion protections and handing pregnancy termination law decisions back to the states.

Now, AOC says conservative on the Supreme Court are 'ruling that discrimination and, frankly, stripping the full personhood and dignity of LGBTQ people in the United States' is OK.

'These are the types of rulings that signal a dangerous creep towards authoritarianism and centralization of power in the court,' AOC concluded.
A hero father drowned after rescuing two children from a lake at a Pennsylvania state park and now his brokenhearted family and friends are is trying to raise money to send his body home to Honduras.

Marvin Alexan Fernandez Chicas, 37, 'disappeared in the water' after going in after the two children were seen struggling around 5 p.m. Thursday, according to Wesley Robinson, spokesperson for the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources.

The children had been swimming in the Tohickon Creek in the cliffs area at Nockamixon State Park.

The Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources prohibits swimmers from entering Tohickon Creek. Swimming is prohibited in the creek and in the 1,450-acre Lake Nockamixon, the largest in the county, Robinson said.

Chicas, who worked at a nearby horse stable, sprang into action to help save the children he did not know.

Marvin Alexan Fernandez Chicas, 37, drowned after rescuing two children who were swimming at the Tohickon Creek at Nockamixon State Park in Pennsylvania on Thursday

The children were rescued from the Tohickon Creek. Swimming is prohibited in the creek and in the 1,450-acre Lake Nockamixon

Chicas, who had been fishing according to his family, saw the children struggling and went in after them and got them to shore, then began to struggle himself, Robinson said.

The 911 call came in from two children, who later told authorities what happened, according to Fire Chief Harry Grim of Haycock Township.

'They apparently got in some trouble in the water, he went in to help them. Unfortunately he can't swim. The kids got out, he did not,' Grim said.

Grim, who said about 10 divers were involved in the search, told WFMZ-TV that many parts of the lake are deceptive and dangerous.

About two hours after divers were deployed, they recovered Chicas' body 25 feet from shore. The children were not injured.

'Unfortunately, people don't follow the rules, and the sad reality is it's not a smooth, gradual slope under the water, and they step off into a deep area, they take a gulp of water, and they die unfortunately. It shouldn't happen, but it does,' Grim said.

'Don't swim in Lake Nockamixon,' Grim added. 'It's zero visibility this time of year. Divers at 10 feet cannot see their own hands in front of their face.'

Fire Chief Harry Grim of Haycock Township, who said about 10 divers were involved in the search, told WFMZ-TV that many parts of the lake are deceptive and dangerous

The Bucks County coroner's office said Friday the cause of Chicas' death had been confirmed as drowning following an autopsy

The Bucks County coroner's office said Friday the cause of Chicas' death had been confirmed as drowning following an autopsy and the manner of death appeared to be accidental.

Coroner Meredith Buck said in a statement the office is extending 'its deepest condolences' to his family.

A GoFundMe was set up to send Chicas' body back to his mother in Honduras and to help his wife and three-year-old son named Dylan who never left his father's side.

As of Sunday night, the fund has raised as of Sunday night $27,394 of its $40,000 goal and described Chicas as a very hardworking man, an excellent father, who loved fishing - which happened to be what he was doing when he jumped in the water to rescue the children.

'He was a man who liked fishing and that day he is doing what he liked together with some friends and son, unfortunately he died drowned in the lake giving his life for two children who were also about to drown along with him he became a hero for everyone,' the page read. 'He died leaving behind his 3-year-old son.

'Marvin was a very hardworking man, an excellent father, they were always going to see him with his son everywhere, that little one didn't leave his dad's side.'
Ministers are poised to order new action to tackle rip-off fuel with a price comparison site, as a watchdog raises concerns about competition in the sector.

The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has highlighted the wide discrepancy in forecourt prices when in a long-awaited report published Monday.

It found that increased supermarket profit margins led to drivers paying an extra 6p per litre for fuel last year.

Energy Secretary Grant Shapps is now expected to back the idea of a new 'Pump Watch' site to give the public better information and allow the Government to monitor the sector.

The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) is expected to highlight the wide discrepancy in forecourt prices when it publishes its long-awaited report

A Government source said Mr Shapps was prepared to change the law to force the retailers to hand over real time information about prices at every forecourt in the country.

'Northern Ireland has a voluntary system, which has had some impact, but if the CMA recommends a comprehensive scheme then we may have to change the law,' the source said.

'At the moment there is no way to compel the retailers to hand over the data you would need, but we are prepared to change the law if necessary.'

The report has been fast-tracked following a meeting last week between Jeremy Hunt and the regulators.

The Chancellor said he was 'committed to getting a fair deal for motorists'.

'I met with watchdogs this week to work out how to reduce everyday costs,' he said. 'They have my 100 per cent backing to crack down on any unfair treatment.'

Ministers first ordered an inquiry into forecourt pricing last year following concern that a 5p cut in fuel duty was not being passed on in full. In an interim report in December, the CMA said that prices 'vary widely between local areas', adding; 'Prices are likely to be higher at petrol stations where there are few (or no) competitors nearby.'

The Fuel Finder would be backed by a new Fuel Monitor that would monitor prices and margins on an ongoing basis and recommend further action if competition continues to weaken in the market.



Read more: https://t.co/aC6Jcmt5hb  Competition & Markets Authority (@CMAgovUK) July 3, 2023

The watchdog also found that retailer margins were increasing, with forecourt operators pocketing 3-4p per litre more than they had five years previously.

And the CMA said it had found 'evidence of 'rocket and feather' behaviour emerging' in the wake of the global energy crisis.

The phrase refers to claims that garages push up costs to the public like a rocket when the global price of oil is rising, but let them fall more slowly like a feather when the global price recedes, pocketing the difference.

The inquiry also found that an increase in margins on diesel across all fuel retailers cost drivers an extra 13p per litre during the first five months of this year.

The CMA recommended that the Government introduces legislation to enable a fuel finder open data scheme to be created.

This would allow drivers to compare pump prices at different sites through apps or sat-navs.

The investigation also highlighted that supermarkets tend to be the cheapest retailers but warned that 'at least one supermarkets has significantly increased its forward-looking margins'.

Additionally, the CMA revealed that supermarket giant Asda has been fined 60,000 by for failing to provide relevant information in a timely manner to the watchdog.

'The AA noted this behaviour as far back as 2005 when, following Hurricane Katrina in the August, pump prices shot up 5p a litre in matter of days but a 4p drop in wholesale costs soon after took more than two months to be reflected at the pump,' reacted Luke Bosdet, the AA's spokesman on pump prices.

'Sadly, it has taken more than 15 years for a government and competition watchdog to recognise this and do something about it.

'However, action that is better late than never is greatly appreciated by motorists across the UK.'

Energy Secretary Grant Shapps will back the idea of a new 'Pump Watch' site to give the public better information and allow the Government to monitor the sector

The report has been fast-tracked following a meeting last week between Jeremy Hunt and the regulators

Fair Fuel UK, which has long campaigned for a 'Pump Watch' regulator, estimates that petrol prices remain 10p per litre higher than they should be, adding more than 5 to the cost of a typical tank of fuel.

The announcement is part of a wider move by ministers to ensure that falls in global prices are passed on to consumers.

Commenting on the report's findings. Gordon Balmer, executive director at the Petrol Retailers Association (PRA), said it will 'support any sensible steps taken to help motorists find the best deal available to them'.

He added: 'We will continue to engage with officials to ensure that this scheme is rolled out efficiently. The logistics surrounding fuel pricing are complicated and it is vital that the Government consult with industry to ensure a smooth implementation.

'Independent forecourts represented by the PRA comprise 65 percent of the fuel network, with the CMA report noting an increase in the extent to which individual non-supermarket retailers are pricing more cheaply than the supermarket national average price. These smaller, independent forecourts operate as a crucial part of local communities, often knowing customers personally.

'If motorists want to compare fuel prices online before the Governments scheme is rolled out, I would recommend checking pre-existing market alternatives, such as petrolprices.com.'

Balmer concluded: 'We will continue to work with the CMA and provide any evidence they may need concerning their investigation. We are committed to advocate for independent retailers and to ensure fuel market transparency.'

Simon Williams, the RAC's fuel price spokesperson, described the CMA's recommendation for a fuel finder open data scheme as a 'landmark day when it comes to fuel prices in the UK'.

He added: The fact that drivers appear to have lost out to the tune of nearly 1billion as a result of increased retailer margins on fuel is nothing short of astounding in a cost-of-living crisis and confirms what we've been saying for many years that supermarkets haven't been treating drivers fairly at the pumps.

'It's all about action now and we very much hope the Government follows through with both of the CMA's recommendation.

'While forcing retailers to publish pump prices is a positive step for drivers, what's of far more significance is the creation of a fuel monitor function within government which, we very much hope, actively monitors wholesale prices to ensure forecourts don't overcharge when the cost they pay to buy fuel drops.

'Without this, we fear drivers will continue to get a raw deal.'

Bosdet from the AA added: 'The push towards an open data fuel finder scheme is a huge leap forward in fair pricing at the pump and needs to be in place by the end of the year.

'Drivers will be drawn to the cheaper fuel stations and that will pressure other forecourts to bring down their prices, thus stimulating the level of competition that has been missing for the past three years.'

The AA is also calling for a 'road fuel regulator' to be setup, though admits it could take some time to be set up: 'Drivers can ill afford to wait any longer for effective pump-price competition, given that the summer getaway is about to start and motorists must run the gauntlet of over-priced motorway fuel.

'They will read stories of small independent fuel stations charging rock-bottom prices for fuel but find it very difficult to locate them on their holiday routes. Pump price transparency will hopefully solve that.
A cold blast across Australia will plunge temperatures to record lows in coming days, while the rain that has drenched the north will soak eastern Queensland in coming days.

Heavy rain battered northeast Queensland on Saturday while Tennant Creek in the Northern Territory received 37.6mm of rain on Sunday; the most 'Dry Season' rain since July 1978.

Bedford Downs in Western Australia was drenched with 86mm of rain while Lajamanu in the NT copped up to 68mm.

The rain and accompanying cloudband will on Monday head east to wreak havoc on Queensland's inland areas and will be soaking populated eastern cities from Wednesday.

Queensland will be lashed with cold rain this week, with most of the state to receive between 30-80mm over the next 72 hours.

Queensland will be lashed with cold rain this week, with most of the state to receive between 30-80mm over the next 72 hours (pictured, a woman rugs up in Sydney)

The Gold Coast, the Sunshine Coast and Brisbane are forecast to pick up about 30mm of rain from Wednesday through to Friday.

Mount Isa, in the northwest, has already received up to 80mm of rain.

Camooweal, near Queensland's western border, received 25.4mm of rain by 9am on Sunday, marking the town''s highest July rainfall total in 37 years.

The 'unseasonably heavy rain' will target Queensland until at least Wednesday, before the cloudband travels into the southeastern states.

The cloudband is also responsible for the freezing daytime temperatures this week with Alice Springs shivering through some of its coolest days since 2010.

Temperatures reached just 8.7C on Friday, the coldest day of any month since 2014 and 11 degrees below the average.

Further south, gusty winds over southern NSW saw Sydney Airport cancel almost 50 flights on Saturday with dozens more forced to be delayed.

The Gold Coast, the Sunshine Coast and Brisbane are forecast to pick up about 30mm of rain from Wednesday through to Friday as temperatures plummet to record lows

On Saturday, the Bureau of Meteorology issued a strong wind warning for much of NSW coast from Port Macquarie right down to Batemans Bay.

The westerly winds reached up to 39km/hour, with gusts of 61km/hour, causing potentially dangerous crosswinds for incoming and departing planes.

More than 100 flights were cancelled or delayed in and out of Sydney on Friday, with similar scenes over the weekend and extending into Monday.

The airport was forced to use only its east-west runway, rather than its twin north-south tarmacs just as the NSW school holidays kicked off.

'Light winds' were forecast for Sydney on Monday, with the chance of a light shower and temperatures between 10 and 17 degrees.

There will be a high chance of showers on Tuesday, however skies will clear by Wednesday afternoon with the sun to return by Friday.

Canberra will also remain chilly this week, with showers on Tuesday to linger for most of the week along with freezing minimum temperatures.

Further south in Victoria, temperatures will plunge even lower as residents shiver through a cool and cloudy Monday with tops of just 14C.

Similar conditions will be experienced in Adelaide with heavy rain set to bucket over the state from Wednesday and last well into the weekend.

The 'unseasonably heavy rain' will target Queensland until at least Wednesday, before the cloudband travels into the southeastern states

In Hobart, minimum temperatures will plummet to just 3C on Monday.

Temperatures will remain icy this week, with light rain to fall over the weekend.

Perth will also remain windy and cold this week, with 10-20mm of rain forecast on Monday as well as the chance of a thunderstorm in the state's southwest.

The WA capital will receive showers for most of the week, with maximum temperatures of 19C on Saturday and 18C on Sunday.

In the NT, Darwin will receive some cloud cover on Monday as well as light winds of 15 to 25km/hour due to pick up in the afternoon.

Darwin will remain dry for most of the week with temperatures to reach a maximum of 33C on Thursday and Friday and lows of 19C on Sunday.
A woman's dead body has been found after a house fire in Geelong.

Emergency services rushed to a home on Upper Skene Street, Newtown, at about 2am on Monday morning after receiving reports of a fire.

A woman who was found inside the property died at the scene.

A crime scene has been established with an arson chemist and detectives from the Arson and Explosives Squad to inspect the damaged home.

A woman's dead body has been found after a house fire in Geelong (pictured, police and fire crews at the scene on Monday morning)

The cause of the fire is yet to be determined.

Geelong is located about 75km southwest of Melbourne.

Anyone with information or who witnessed the incident has been urged to contact police or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
Labour and the SNP were accused of hypocrisy over asylum seekers last night as it emerged Scotland and Wales aren't housing their 'fair share'.

Data shows Scotland is housing just 5,086 asylum seekers out of a total of 112,294. This amounts to 4.5 per cent despite Scotland making up 8.1 per cent of the UK population.

Although there has been a surge in the numbers of small boats crossing the Channel, Scotland's SNP government is now hosting less than at the beginning of the year. The number has fallen from 5,210 to 5,086.

Meanwhile, Labour-run Wales is hosting just 2,966. This amounts to 2.6 per cent of the UK total despite Wales making up 5.2 per cent of the country's population. It is down from 3,142 asylum seekers that were being hosted there at the start of the year.

Immigration minister Robert Jenrick has written to both the Scottish and Welsh governments demanding action.

There has been a surge in the numbers of small boats crossing the Channel, but Scotland's SNP government is now hosting less than at the beginning of the year. The number has fallen from 5,210 to 5,086

Immigration minister Robert Jenrick (pictured) has written to both the Scottish and Welsh governments demanding action

READ MORE: Migrants begin crossing Channel in small boats after judges ruled Rishi Sunak's plan to send them to Rwanda was illegal Advertisement

Last night he told the Daily Mail: 'Labour and the SNP repeatedly try to block our measures to control our borders, but where they're in power they refuse to accommodate their fair share of people who come here illegally.

'Time after time they play to the gallery and bang on about being 'nations of sanctuary', but it's just warm words. In reality, they're guilty of rank hypocrisy.'

It also emerged that the Labour-run city of Edinburgh is accommodating just 37 asylum seekers. By comparison, Manchester, a similar-sized city in England, is hosting around 1,800.

It comes after councillors in Edinburgh last month opposed a proposal to house asylum seekers on the same ship used to accommodate Ukrainian refugees, calling it a floating 'prison'. The proposal would have been cheaper than housing arrivals in hotels and was part of a plan to reduce the 6million-a-day bill it is costing the Government nationally.

More than 10,962 migrants had reached the UK in 246 boats by June 23 this year, compared with 11,806 up until the same point last year.
Great movie ,awesome cast. It was difficult to see Denzel in the role as an addict but he did it very convincingly. He showed so much integrity when asked at the hearing if the attendant had drank the vodka..i kept saying "you cant lie on a dead person and let their memory be tarnished".i dont know what the woman intended by trying to blame it on the dead attendant ,perhaps she was low key trying to take the heat off of him for the alcohol and help with his testimony. Addiction is a horrible thing,it not only destroys the users lives,but everybody they share it with.
Nikki Haley has suggested China 'has been preparing for war' with the US as it has built up its military over the last few years.

Haley said while China had been expanding its military presence America has been complacent and 'taking gender pronoun classes'.

She outlined a like-for-like comparison of the two militaries, noting how China had the world's largest naval fleet, with the US firmly in second place.

'If you look at the military situation, they now have the largest naval fleet in the world,' Haley said to Fox News.

'They have 340 ships, we have 293. They're going to have 400 In two years, we won't even have 350 in two decades. They have started developing hypersonic missiles. We're just now getting started.'

Republican presidential hopeful Nikki Haley shared concerns about China's military emphasizing that the country has been preparing for war for years

Members of the Chinese Navy stand on the deck of the guided-missile destroyer Suzhou

Haley said China's fleet is projected to expand to 400 ships within the next two years, while America's will not even reach 350 ships in the next two decades.

China is also believed to have been busy developing hypersonic missiles, while the US still lags behind in that area.

Haley pointed out that China's military advances seems to occur in direct contrast to the rise of 'woke culture' within the US military.

'They are modernizing their military, our military's taking gender pronoun classes,' she said. 'Look at what they're doing on cyber, artificial intelligence, space  they're ahead of us.'

In a speech last week, she outlined her policy on China, Haley had strong words describing the country as 'much more than a mere 'competitor'  Communist China is an enemy. We have to stop wasting time,' she said.

Last week, Haley, a former US ambassador to the UN, introduced a proposal to address the threat from China threat cautioning while its military grows, the US has become complacent

Chinese President Xi Jinping meets military officers and troops stationed in northwest China

Haley outlined a like-for-like comparison of the two countries military noting how China had the world's largest naval fleet, with the U.S. firmly in second place

She described Beijing as the 'most dangerous foreign threat we've faced since the Second World War.'

Haley proposed limiting trade relations with China and tightening restrictions on Chinese investments in the US.

'We've tried sanctions but they're not working. We must ratchet up the pressure. As president, I will push Congress to revoke permanent normal trade relations until the flow of fentanyl ends,' Haley said at a speech at the American Enterprise Institute, a right-leaning think tank in Washington.

Some Republicans in Congress have pushed bills to end the preferential trade status China has enjoyed for decades and require annual presidential approval for it to receive preferential trade and tariff terms that other approved countries get.

'If China wants to start normal trade again, it has to stop killing Americans,' she said.

'They have 340 ships, we have 293. They're going to have 400 In two years, we won't even have 350 in two decades. They have started developing hypersonic missiles. We're just now getting started,' Haley stated

Haley served as the US ambassador to the UN from 2017 to 2018 under the Trump administration

China is a major producer of the chemicals that are required to create fentanyl, which is frequently smuggled over the U.S.-Mexico border.

The National Institute on Drug Abuse says fentanyl, a powerful synthetic opioid 50-100 times more potent than morphine, has contributed to a sharp rise in U.S. drug overdose deaths. Almost 80,000 Americans died from opioid-related overdoses in 2022, according to the Centers for Disease Control.

U.S. officials say the fentanyl issue has been a top priority in talks with Beijing even as relations between the geopolitical rivals have plumbed their lowest depths in decades.

They say China's government has not been cooperative in recent years in helping to crackdown on the flow of fentanyl precursor chemicals or on money laundering related to trafficking.

But Beijing has countered that Washington should stop using the fentanyl crisis as a pretext to sanction Chinese companies, and Chinese state media have repeatedly said addiction and demand for the drug are U.S. domestic problems

The Chinese embassy had strong words in response criticizing Haley for smearing and engaging in blame-shifting.

'Pushing American companies to leave China runs counter to economic laws, and will ultimately harm everyone's interests,' a spokesman said.

'Only those who draw attention by smearing and blame-shifting in the election campaign will end up on the ash heap of history.'

Haley urged immediate action stressing that waiting any longer to tackle China would simply deal to 'China dealing with the US today.'

'The way we have to deal with China is [to] not look at it tomorrow, because if we keep waiting to deal with them tomorrow, they will deal with us today,' she explained.

Haley served as the US ambassador to the UN from 2017 to 2018 under the Trump administration.

Throughout her tenure, she was a vocal critic of the Chinese Communist Party.

Several candidates vying for the 2024 Republican presidential nomination, of which opinion polls suggest Hayley to be in fourth place, have adopted a confrontational stance toward China.

Haley appears to be upping the ante by putting forth a series of aggressive policy proposals.

Haley, who is in the single digits in all polls, also pledged to shut down a pathway for the export of certain sensitive technologies to China from the United States.

Currently, the U.S. Department of Commerce must grant waivers for companies to send certain technologies, such as microchips, to China.

Haley wrote in an op-ed last week that her administration would no longer grant such waivers.

She has sought to use foreign policy as a way to differentiate herself in a crowded Republican field, and her hardline stance on China could push her rivals to adopt harsher positions too.
The pilot of the other craft, meanwhile, managed to make an emergency landing, officials confirmed. The full extent of his injuries remained unknown on Sunday

Lieutenant Colonel Mario Andres Espinosa lost his life in the incident - while the other officer operating the second attack aircraft is receiving medical attention

An officer with the Colombian air force has died after his aircraft collided with another during a training exercise.

Lieutenant Colonel Mario Andres Espinosa lost his life during the incident while the other officer operating the second aircraft survived and has been hospitalized.

Horrifying footage of the crash, which happened on Saturday, is currently circulating on social media - and shows how 18-year veteran Espinosa's craft burst into flames upon impact before plummeting to the ground below.

The unnamed pilot of the other craft, however, managed to make an emergency landing - with officials revealing Sunday he is safe, under medical observation, and that the state of health is 'stable.' The full extent of his injuries remain unknown.

The incident transpired during training for the upcoming annual independence parade in nearby Bogota, officials said - at the Captain Luis Francisco Gomez Nino Air Base in Villavicencio, just outside the capital.

Footage of the crash, which happened Saturday, is currently circulating on social media - and shows how an 18-year vet's craft bursts into flames upon impact, before plummeting to the ground below

Colombia Fuerza Aerea Lieutaenant Colonel Mario Andres Espinosa lost his life during the incident, the country's military has confirmed - while the other officer operating the second aircraft survived and has since been hospitalized

Soldiers are now engaged in mourning after the sudden loss of a stalwart comrade, who, according to his social media, flew for the force for at least 13 years, and, according to his higher-ups, left behind a family.

The Fuerza Aerea Colombiana said in a statement at 9:37pm ET. 'We express our condolences and solidarity to the family of the deceased pilot, Lt. Colonel Mario Andres Espinosa Gonzalez and to each of the men and women of the Institution.'

Posted to social media, the update was accompanied with an image of Espinosa in uniform, and came more than four hours after footage of the crash began surfacing online.

It also offered a brief eulogy in the form of an inspirational quote.

Translated from Spanish, it read: 'Pilots don't die, they just fly higher.'

In another statement, penned hours earlier, military officials outlined some of the still sparse details of the crash - which is currently being investigated.

'The @FuerzaAereaCol regrets to inform that two T-27 Tucano aircraft, on a training mission, crashed at the 2nd Air Combat Command,' the Saturday statement read.

In it, the aviation force - one of three branches comprising the country's military - confirmed the crash occurred at roughly 5:28pm local time (6:28pm ET), and involved only the 'two T-27 Tucano aircraft' piloted by the two men.

The pair, officials added, had been flying in formation with three other identical fighter planes while 'carrying out a training mission,' before crashing over the Air Combat Command No. 2 in Apiay, Meta.

The crash was caught on camera by at least two Colombians who had been watching the practice air procession from below, in anticipation of a highly attended annual aeronautical fair slated for July 20 - the country's day of independence

Officials said Sunday that 'there are no more crews and/or people involved in the unfortunate incident', while electing to not release the name of the second pilot involved

Espinosa's craft then combusts, and begins to descend rapidly

Officials added Sunday that 'there are no more crews and/or people involved in the unfortunate incident', while electing to not release the name of the second pilot involved.

The crash was caught on camera by at least two Colombians who had been watching the practice air procession from below, in anticipation of July 20's highly attended aeronautical fair.

In one widely viewed clip, the two low-flying planes are seen getting dangerously close - as the rest of the five-plan fleet looks on - before eventually colliding.

In another, onlookers from a nearby town are seen looking on in horror as the planned procession quite literally falls apart before them.

Espinosa's craft is then seen combusting almost immediately after coming into contact with the other airborne aircraft, before beginning to descend rapidly.

The other craft, meanwhile, appears to maintain its altitude, before panning out of view and eventually making the aforementioned emergency landing.

Officials added in their initial statement, 'An inspection commission was sent to the scene of the events in order to advance the investigation that allows determining the causes of the accident.'

That said, what predated and ultimately spurred the collision currently remains unknown as of Sunday, just over 24 hours after the horror crash.

The Fuerza Aerea Colombiana said in a statement at 9:37pm ET Saturday. 'We express our condolences and solidarity to the family of the deceased pilot, Lt. Colonel Mario Andres Espinosa Gonzalez and to each of the men and women of the Institution'

Officials confirmed the planes being used in the ill-fated procession were T-27 Tucanos, a low-wing, tandem-seat fighter developed in Brazil in the late 70s and early 80s

Officials confirmed the planes being used in the ill-fated procession were T-27 Tucanos, a low-wing, tandem-seat fighter developed in Brazil in the late 70s and early 80s.

The crafts - popular in South America - were specifically designated for training.

Authorities said Sunday they are still actively investigating the incident to determine the cause of the collision, so that they can then take appropriate measures to prevent similar, future crashes.

That said, the accident comes amid an abnormal rush of air-related mishaps in Colombian air space, according to a recent report.

In April, the Technical Directorate of Accident Investigation of the Civil Aeronautics revealed the air accident rate in Colombia over the past year - showing that a total of 17 air accidents were reported in the country.

Soldiers are now engaged in mourning after the sudden loss of Lt. Col. Espinosa, who flew for the force for 13 years, and, according to his higher-ups, left behind a family

The report indicates that the majority of these incidents occurred in both private and agricultural aviation, particularly in regions such as the eastern plains and the Colombian jungle, often involving older planes.

In a statement to CNN last month - following a crash that saw four children go missing in the Columbian Jungle - the country's Civil Aviation authority defended their use of aging planes such as the T-27 trainer

'Colombian law does not establish a maximum age for aircrafts operating in the country as long as they comply with all maintenance protocols.

'Moreover, this type of older airplanes are often the most apt to operate in the limited infrastructure of the airfields in the Colombian Amazon.

'The institution is aware of these situations and promotes a safety program to mitigate risks related to flying in older aircrafts.'

The four children  Lesly, 13; Soleiny, 9; Tien Noriel, 4; and Cristin, 1  were found earlier this month after spending 40 days lost in the Columbian Jungle, following a rescue operation that combed through more than 1,600 miles of dense forest.
Canadian fires continue to burn and will send smoke over New York City and the east coast throughout the summer - as experts warn firefighting operations could last until September.

Canada is experiencing its worst fire season on record with firefighters coming in from all over the nation to help.

As of Sunday afternoon, there were more than 568 fires active across Canada - 281 of which are classified as 'out of control', the Canadian Agency Forest Fire Centre (CIFFC) reported.

David Roth, a forecaster with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Weather Prediction Center told MSN that Americans will remain at risk of more smoke filled days ahead until the fires are 'fully out,' with those feeling it more who are closer to the border.

Meanwhile Karine Pelletier of SOPFEU, Quebecs forest-firefighting agency, told CBS New York that barring many heavy periods of rainfall, the agency expects firefighting operations to last until September.

Firefighters flying over a controlled burn to fight wildfires in Canada's Quebec Province that took place on June 6

Smoke and haze fill the New York skies as people are seen walking and using a moped on the Brooklyn Bridge as air-quality continues to be poor

The year-to-date chart shows the Canadian wildfires steadily increasing

On Sunday, there was some marked improvement in the air quality due, in part, to a SSE wind, CBS New York reported.

Bruce MacNab, the head of Wildland Fire Information Systems with Natural Resources Canada, predicts the fires will continue for 'some weeks.'

'It would take some huge rain events to completely stop them,' he said.

Issac Sanchez, a battalion chief for communications at Cal Fire, Californias firefighting agency, told the news outlet that every 'single fire is its own event.'

'Its got its own behavior. We cant attack them exactly the same way,' he said.

As the fires burn, the air quality continues to be troublesome, particularly for those who suffer from asthma and other respiratory ailments.

Million of Americans will have to brace themselves for more extreme smoke days. Though no one truly knows how long the smoke will last, the direction the wind blows can mitigate these factors.

The Canadian fires are taking place in the boreal forest where there is vast land, deciduous trees and conifers. This type of forest has various trees that are densely packed. When a fire starts it burns at a higher intensity.

Jain, a research scientist at the Canadian Forest Service, told CBS that these boreal forests contain peat, which can slow fireif its wet, but he also explained that if the peat is dry, it can burn underground and spread fires even farther.

The weather is a major factor as hot temperatures can supercharge a fire, and wind can help spread them. While snow and rain help extinguish the flames, and the area's topography as most fires tend to burn uphill.

Fires thrive on fuel, oxygen and warmer temperatures. They also burn at their own speed and duration with taking weeks or even months to resolve making it difficult to predict when this will all be over.

In this aerial view taken from Air Force One, the US Capitol is under hazy skies in Washington, DC

A freighter passes through the Detroit River as smoke fills the sky reducing visibility to Windsor, Ontario, earlier today

Images of the Empire State Building that have been impacted by the smoke of the Canadian wildfires on Friday

On Wednesday, Washington DC had been put on code red for air quality as smoke from Canadian wildfires plunged the city into the 'unhealthy' category, as New York City prepared for a second coating of smog.

Nearly 90million people across the US were currently under unhealthy air quality warnings due to the ongoing fires and the DC area was heading into code red.

The poor air-quality continued with smoke sweeping across the country and triggering air alerts for the entire states of Iowa, Wisconsin, Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Delaware and Maryland.

Parts of Kansas, Missouri, Minnesota, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York and Virginia were also under warnings, with residents being advised to stay indoors when possible.

The Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments announced that air quality in the area would get considerably worse due to the smoke and asked residents to limit outdoor activities.

Sensitive groups like those with heart and lung diseases were cautioned to stay indoors.

In the DC area, the US Capitol was submerged in thick smoke from the wildfires.

Last week, New York Gov Kathy Hochul and New York City Mayor Eric Adams both issued warnings that the smoke that covered the city earlier this month is to return.

Chicago had also recorded the worst air quality globally, by the World Air Quality Index with a reading of 175 AQI, with parts of Michigan reaching higher.

The index is a measure of five common pollutants and runs on a scale from 0 to 500, with a rating over 150 considered 'unhealthy.'

According to the index, Washington D.C., Minneapolis, Chicago and Detroit are all in the top ten for the worst air quality on the planet.

The New York City Health Department urged people to take precautions as the smoke is expected to 'significantly impact' air quality and warned it could reach hazardous levels.
Wagner warlord Yevgeny Prigozhin has not been seen for eight days

Wagner warlord Yevgeny Prigozhin's business empire came under fresh assault yesterday as his media companies suddenly folded amid questions over his whereabouts.

The mercenary chief has not been seen since shortly after the collapse of a mutiny by his Wagner Group fighters that rocked Vladimir Putin's regime eight days ago.

Normally prolific on social media, Prigozhin was last heard from on Telegram a week ago, despite a rumoured sighting in Moscow.

Under the deal that halted his rebellion, the former ally and one-time chef to Putin was to be allowed to go into exile in Belarus.

His men, who have fought some of the bloodiest battles of the 16-month war in Ukraine, were given the choice of joining him, being integrated into Russia's armed forces or returning home. Now the closure of his network of companies has added to growing scepticism over whether Prigozhin will really be allowed to leave Russia.

Wagner warlord Yevgeny Prigozhin's (pictured) business empire came under fresh assault yesterday as his media companies suddenly folded amid questions over his whereabouts

Patriot Media, whose most prominent outlet was the RIA FAN news site, had taken a strongly nationalist, pro-Kremlin editorial line, while also providing positive coverage of Prigozhin and his Wagner forces.

'I am announcing our decision to close down and to leave the country's information space,' RIA FAN director Yevgeny Zubarev said in a video clip posted late on Saturday. Mr Zubarev gave no reason for the decision.

Russian newspaper Kommersant reported that the country's communications watchdog, Roskomnadzor, had blocked media outlets linked to Prigozhin, without elaborating on the reasons why.

Under the deal that halted his rebellion, the former ally and one-time chef to Vladimir Putin (pictured) was to be allowed to go into exile in Belarus

Russian media have also reported that a 'troll factory' used by Prigozhin to influence public opinion in foreign countries  including the United States  had been disbanded.

In his video post, Mr Zubarev praised Patriot Media's record, saying it had defended both Prigozhin and Putin from attacks by representatives of the anti-Kremlin opposition 'who genuinely tried to destroy our country', including jailed critic Alexei Navalny.

Despite the abortive mutiny, Russian authorities have not officially outlawed the Wagner Group, but Putin said last week that the finances of former hotdog seller Prigozhin's catering firm would be investigated. The president said Wagner and its founder had received almost $2billion (1.5billion) from Russia in the past year, despite having denied any state links to the firm for years.

Wagner's ranks have included thousands of convicts recruited from Russian jails.

Founded in 2014, the group has grown into a sprawling international business with mining interests and fighters in Africa and the Middle East.
The moon will appear 5.8 per cent bigger and shine 12.8 per cent brighter

Mars and Venus may also be visible once darkness washes over as well

The first supermoon of the year is set to rise at 10.24pm GMT (01.43pm EDT)

Astronomy enthusiasts are in for a treat as the first supermoon of 2023 is set to light up skies around the world tonight.

The so-called 'Buck Moon' is expected to shine at around 10.24pm GMT (01.43pm EDT) this evening before reaching its full phase tomorrow morning in a magnificent start to the month of July.

Both Mars and Venus could also be visible once darkness washes over just after 10.40pm GMT at the UK's western horizon, and at 1.45am EDT in the US, according to Stellarium.

The spectacle will take place as the Moon reaches its full phase, which occurs every 29.5 days.

But as this is a supermoon, our lunar satellite will look 5.8 per cent bigger and shine 12.8 per cent brighter than an ordinary full moon, Starwalk has claimed.

The so-called 'Buck Moon' is expected to peak at around 10.24pm GMT (01.43pm EDT) this evening before reaching its full phase tomorrow morning in a magnificent start to the month of July

FULL MOON NAMES AND THEIR MEANINGS January: Wolf Moon because wolves were heard more often at this time. February: Snow Moon to coincide with heavy snow. March: Worm Moon as the Sun increasingly warmed the soil and earthworms became active. April: Pink Moon as it heralded the appearance of Phlox subulata or moss pink  one of spring's first flowers. May: Flower Moon because of the abundance of blossoms. June: Strawberry Moon because it appeared when the strawberry harvest first took place. July: Buck Moon as it arrived when a male deer's antlers were in full growth mode. August: Sturgeon Moon after the large fish that was easily caught at this time. September: Corn Moon because this was the time to harvest corn. October: Hunter's Moon after the time to hunt in preparation for winter. November: Beaver Moon because it was the time to set up beaver traps. December: Cold Moon because nights at this time of year were the longest. Advertisement

This is because the moon is arriving to its closest point to Earth at 224,895 miles (361,934km) - around 13,959 miles (22,466km) closer than usual.

This is referred to as 'perigee', and at this time the moon can look up to 14 per cent bigger than usual.

Because the supermoon is taking place in July, it has been dubbed the 'Full Buck Moon' - a name given by the Native Americans.

'Buck' refers to young male deer which grow new antlers at the beginning of July every year.

In the southern hemisphere, this phase is also referred to as the 'Wolf Moon' or the 'Ice Moon', while Celtics called it the Moon of Claiming.

Meanwhile, some Asian cultures refer to it as the 'Hungry Ghost Moon', which will be celebrated during August.

As part of the Hungry Ghost Festival, people generally present food offerings to the souls of the dead who are believed to roam the area.

These perishables are among gold and other goods that many believe will prevent the souls from getting up to mischief.

Conspiracy theories have surrounded supermoons and full moons for a long time, with some questioning whether they can affect your emotions or even make people more violent.

Believing that the moon influences human health first arose among early folklore, Royal Musesums Greenwich reports, with common draws to increased sleep problems and seizures.

While the scientific basis for such links is weak, some recent studies claim to have found a connection between the moon and sleep.

Mars and Venus could also be visible once darkness washes over just after 10.40pm GMT at the UK's western horizon, and at 1.45am EDT in the US, according to Stellarium

Supermoons take place when the moon is at 'perigee' - its closest proximity to Earth

READ MORE: Everything you need to know about NASA's first mission to the MOON in 50 years The Artemis II mission will see four lucky crew members take a 10-day journey around the moon in NASA's deep space Orion capsule, gathering vital knowledge on the lunar surface Advertisement

In 2021, scientists at Yale and the University of Washington found that people generally have more trouble falling asleep during a full moon.

This was linked to lighting intensity differences preventing sleep initiation in the early hours of the night.

The study explained: 'In this context, it is primarily moonlight available during the first hours of the night that is more likely to drive changes in the onset of sleep.

'In contrast, moonlight late in the night, when most individuals are typically asleep, should have little influence on sleep onset or duration.'

While July 3 will see the first supermoon of the year, the next is not too long away.

It's expected to occur on August 1 at 18:31 GMT (2:31 p.m. EDT).

Although Venus and Mars should be visible once the darkness kicks in, it is important to bring along binoculars or a telescope to a good stargazing spot.

NASA also recommends checking the weather forecast ahead of time to find a cloudless area.

This should also provide an unobstructed view of the horizon, avoiding buildings and any blaring city lights.

To differentiate between stars and planets, watchers should look for objects that don't twinkle amid the flickering stars.

But if you miss out on the spectacle - don't worry.

A number of astronomical events are to take place in the coming month including the peak of five meteor showers.

Observers in the northern hemisphere can expect to see the July Pegasids near July 23, with a maximum of five meteors each hour.

This will be taken up a notch towards July 30 as the Southern Aquarids will peak with a shower of around 25 meteors every hour.
Robots and AI could save a million NHS working days a year and free staff to focus on care, a blueprint for the Health Service says.

Technological improvements could mean that frontline workers would no longer have to waste as much time on administrative tasks, Ministers say.

The blueprint claims 'robotic process automation' could handle back-office tasks up to ten times faster than humans, saving 30 per cent in costs and with fewer errors.

It is one of the reforms in the NHS workforce plan, which the Government hopes will save taxpayers 10 billion.

The 15-year scheme sets out radical measures to plug a deficit of up to 360,000 NHS staff by creating an army of junior and apprentice roles, and speeding up clinical training.

Robots and AI could save a million NHS working days a year and free staff to focus on care, a blueprint for the Health Service says. Pictured: Health Secretary Steve Barclay who is said to have pushed for the Health Service to harness technological advances to maximise productivity and speed up patient care

The blueprint claims 'robotic process automation' could handle back-office tasks up to ten times faster than humans, saving 30 per cent in costs and with fewer errors. It would be done using AI software such as ChatGPT to transcribe doctors' notes

It states: 'If all trusts implemented processes that have been 'time-validated', this could save more than 7.2 million hours annually, equivalent to over 965,000 working days released.

'Over the next ten years, this could be nearer 22 million hours saved, equivalent to more than 2.9 million working days released.'

The plan  which comes ahead of the 75th anniversary of the NHS on Wednesday  pledges to find ways to harness technology, with increasing use of artificial intelligence and robotics in diagnostics and administration.

It means patients could in future meet 'robot receptionists' to schedule appointments and operations alongside the use of AI software such as ChatGPT to transcribe doctors' notes.

It is one of the reforms in the NHS workforce plan, which the Government hopes will save taxpayers 10 billion

MPs on the Commons Health and Social Care Committee have warned that technology in the NHS is so outdated it can take doctors 15 minutes simply to log on to their work computer.

Health Secretary Steve Barclay is said to have pushed for the Health Service to harness technological advances to maximise productivity and speed up patient care.

The report is expected to set out how software 'bots' can be used to carry out patient bookings, flag test results and analyse patient referrals. This would reduce the workload of medical secretaries so more of their time is spent interacting with patients.

Mr Barclay has already announced a 21 million fund to use AI to speed up diagnosis.

It will harness 'machine learning' to analyse lung X-rays, diagnose cancer and ensure rapid diagnosis of strokes.
Earlier this week, disgraced Sex And The City star Chris Noth denied claims he is at war with his co-stars in the wake of a sexual assault scandal.

In 2021, the star, who played Mr Big, was accused of sexually assaulting two women, after which his former co-stars Sarah Jessica Parker, Cynthia Nixon and Kristin Davis took to Instagram to tell the world they stood with his alleged victims.

Now, after an American newspaper reported that Chris, 68, had been 'iced out' by the women following the allegations, the star spoke out in defiance, as he shared the article on Instagram and wrote: 'I usually don't respond to this kind of thing.

'And I do know that people like drama and gossip...but this article is absolute nonsense. Just thought you'd like to know.'

And while Chris insists there is no behind-the-scenes tension with his former colleagues, elsewhere, behind the scenes tension has become synonymous with the whole show, as the franchise has been plagued with controversy.

So from Sarah's iconic feud with ex-SATC star Kim Cattrall to beef in the writers' room over storylines, we take a look at the show's most explosive civil wars...

'We support the women': Earlier this week, disgraced Sex And The City star Chris Noth denied claims he is at war with his co-stars Cynthia Nixon, Kristin Davis and Sarah Jessia Parker (L-R) in the wake of a sexual assault scandal (Pictured in 2021)

True love? Chris and Sarah are pictured in character as Mr Big and Carrie Bradshaw

'It's fun and nostalgic': While Chris insists there is no behind-the-scenes tension with his former colleagues, elsewhere, behind the scenes tension has become synonymous with the whole show, as the franchise has been plagued with controversy (the co-stars pictured in 1998)

Burn! Sex and the City costume designer Patricia Field (L, pictured in 2003) shaded Cynthia Nixon (R) over her fashion demands after being asked about her former assistant Molly Rogers' work styling on HBO Max's And Just Like That

CAT(TRALL) FIGHT

Diva Sarah Jessica Parker and her co-star Kim Cattrall have been at each other's throats for years after starring in TV series Sex And The City together.

The pair have been embroiled in a public feud for a while - with Kim calling Sarah names like 'cruel' and 'toxic' over the years - and many people believe that's why she didn't want to participate in And Just Like That...

When they were shooting out of town, they would stay in different hotels. There was no girly exchange of gossip while they were all having their make-up done.

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

The reasons were many; over the years arguments raged over everything from status and money to the amount of nudity in love scenes.

Last year, Kim, 65, revealed to Variety she had decided not to take part in a planned third movie after seeing her character's lack of progression, and said co-stars Sarah, Cynthia and Kristin 'aren't my friends.'

In response Sarah, 57, opened up for the first time about their alleged feud, claiming that it was not Kim who turned down the film, but the studio, because they could not accept her 'demands.'

Speaking candidly to Awards Chatter podcast, the actress, who plays Carrie Bradshaw in the franchise, said 'it's very hard' to talk about the situation.

Sarah described her former co-star's portrayal of self-proclaimed 'try-sexual' Samantha Jones as 'wonderful' and branded Kim 'a huge contributor to the success.'

'There just isn't anybody else who has talked about me in this way, so it's very painful because she's a huge contributor to the success.

'I think her portrayal of that role was wonderful and it filled out everything. There were four points on the picture and they were all important.'

In 2018, Sarah shared a post on social media read: 'Dearest Kim, my love and condolences to you and yours and Godspeed to your beloved brother. Xx'

She was responding to the announcement by her former Sex And The City co-star, that Kim's brother, Chris, 55, had been found dead on his farm in Canada.

Kim responded with a furious attack. Writing on Instagram, she said: 'My Mom asked me today 'When will that @sarahjessicaparker, that hypocrite, leave you alone?'

'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 haven't already). You are not my family.

'You are not my friend. So I'm writing to tell you one last time to stop exploiting our tragedy in order to restore your 'nice girl' persona.'

She linked her post to a 2017 newspaper story headlined: 'Inside the mean-girls culture that destroyed Sex And The City.'

Now, further confusion has been cast over the row, as Samantha is making a comeback - for just one scene - that Kim insisted on filming entirely separately to her co-stars in the wake of her adamant vows she would not return.

Beef: Sarah Jessica and Kim are pictured together in 2003

It's back! And Just Like That... returned last week without Kim

STYLISH SLAMMING

In 2021, costume designer Patricia Field slammed Cynthia 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, 79, didn't mince her words when she admitted she 'liked some of it, but not all of it', adding 'but I know what Molly's dealing with' during an interview with the Sunday Times.

Doubling down, she said: '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."

For her work on Sex And The City, Patricia was nominated for five Emmy Awards, win one win and six Costume Designers Guild Awards, with four wins.

She went on to return as costume designer for the Sex And The City movie (2008) and the sequal (2010), however she was unable to reprise her role for the reboot due to her Emily In Paris commitments.

Aside from her slights on Cynthia, she has also pledged her allegiance to Kim.

Speaking about her absence from the popular series, Field said: 'It is a vacuum. I hear it everywhere. Everyone is mad she wont be in it.'

The two-time Emmy winner gushed: 'I would love to do a show with [Kim].'

Miranda: In 2021, costume designer Patricia Field slammed Cynthia over her fashion demands when asked about her former assistant Molly Rogers' work styling the cast on HBO Max's And Just Like That

We miss you! Many might argue that AJLT lost its edge without the two-time Emmy winner and her 'bestie' Kim Cattrall (R, pictured September 17), who played lusty PR exec Samantha Jones in all six SATC seasons and the forgettable movie spin-offs

WRITERS' ROOM

One of the most divisive storylines in Sex And The City history was in Season Four, Episode Four Ring a Ding Ding, in which Carrie scolds Charlotte for not offering to lend her money to buy her apartment when her building goes coop.

After Samantha and Miranda offer to loan her the money in a bid to stop her borrowing from Mr Big, Carrie rages that recently-split Charlotte does not give her the money before she eventually gives her her engagement ring to sell.

The row caused outrage among fans and it was later revealed that the storyline also caused fury behind the scenes and in the writers' room.

In 2017, producer and writer Amy Harris said: 'If people were p**sed and hated that Carrie did that, I'm OK with that. The biggest fight we ever got into in the writers' room was about the money. That was a very big debate.'

Amy did insist that she held faith in Carrie that she would pay back her pal: 'I do believe she sat down every month and wrote Charlotte a check'.

Beef: One of the most divisive storylines in Sex And The City history was in Season Four, Episode Four Ring a Ding Ding, in which Carrie scolds Charlotte for not offering to lend her money to buy her apartment when her building goes coop
It was announced earlier this month that cult favorite titles including Austin Powers, Resident Evil, Kindergarten Cop, and Chappelle's Show were leaving Netflix in July 2023 and many others have been added to that list leaving many fans even more devastated.

The two Chronicles Of Riddick and four Ip Man films are two of the major franchises leaving the streaming giant next month.

Oscar-nominated star-studded flick August: Osage County - featuring Meryl Streep, Julia Roberts, Juliette Lewis, and many others - will also be leaving the service.

Many fans on social media have already expressed devastation about the cult favorite films and television shows being axed from the streamer.

Just weeks ago it was announced that several other marquee franchises titles are leaving the streaming giant Netflix - which saw daily sign-ups double recently - next month.

Buff: The two Chronicles Of Riddick films have been added to the list of titles leaving Netflix next month which has left fans devastated

Impressive: The four Ip Man films are also a marquee franchise leaving the streaming giant next month

Among those axed were all three Austin Powers films including: Austin Powers: International Man of Mystery (1997), Austin Powers: The Spy Who Shagged Me (1999), and Austin Powers In Gold Member (2002) which stars Beyonce.

Another massive franchise that the streaming giant will be losing is Resident Evil starring Milla Jovovich. Those titles which will be unavailable for streaming are: Resident Evil (2002), Resident Evil: Apocalypse (2004), and Resident Evil: Afterlife (2010), Resident Evil: Retribution (2012).

Will Smith and Martin Lawrence's Bad Boys films are also being axed including the 1995 original and 2003 sequel Bad Boys II.

Classic comedy films will also be taking a hit including 1990's Kindergarten Cop starring Arnold Schwarzenegger, 2003's How To Lose A Guy In 10 Days starring Kate Hudson and Matthew McConaughey, and 2009's The Hangover.

On the television front, one of the most iconic sketch comedy shows Chappelle's Show starring Dave Chappelle will have the first two seasons taken off the platform.

The omissions come at an interesting time as it was reported last week that daily

sign-ups for Netflix surged in the first few days after the streaming giant's password-sharing crackdown came into effect, new data show.

After it began alerting subscribers of the crackdown on May 23, Netflix had the four single largest days of US user acquisition on record, according to research firm Antenna, which has been tracking the data since 2019.

Oscar-nominated star-studded flick August: Osage County will also be leaving the service.

The film stars featuring Meryl Streep, Julia Roberts, Juliette Lewis, and many others

Not without a fight: Kick-Ass 2 is leaving the service

On both May 26 and May 27, Netflix had nearly 100,000 daily sign-ups, and over the four-day period, average daily sign-ups reached 73,000, an increase of 102 percent from the prior 60-day average.

The news sent shares of the company up nearly 3 percent, to $421.50, in afternoon trading on Friday, June 9.

Prior to the crackdown, Netflix had estimated that more than 100 million households had supplied their log-in credentials to people outside their homes.

Seeking to boost revenue in a saturated streaming market, Netflix last month launched its password-sharing crackdown -- a drastic turnaround for a company that once tweeted 'Love is sharing a password'.

Under the new rules, US users can add a member outside of their homes for an additional fee of $8 per month.

Not groovy: Earlier this month it was revealed that several marquee franchises titles are leaving streaming giant Netflix next month including Austin Powers starring Mike Myers and Beyonce (pictured in 2002's Austin Powers In Gold Member)

Not back from the dead: Another massive franchise that the streaming giant will be losing is Resident Evil starring Milla Jovovich. Those titles which will be unavailable for streaming are: Resident Evil (2002), Resident Evil: Apocalypse (2004; pictured), and Resident Evil: Afterlife (2010), Resident Evil: Retribution (2012)

Whatchu' gonna do? Will Smith and Martin Lawrence's Bad Boys films are also being axed including the 1995 original (pictured) and 2003 sequel Bad Boys II

Stunner: Classic comedy films will also be taking a hit including 2003's How To Lose A Guy In 10 Days starring Kate Hudson and Matthew McConaughey (pictured) and 2009's The Hangover

The party pooper: 1990's Kindergarten Cop starring Arnold Schwarzenegger will also be cut

Hilarious: On the television front, one of the most iconic sketch comedy shows Chappelle's Show starring Dave Chappelle will have the first two seasons taken off the platform

The strategy seems to have paid off, as new sign-ups surged in late May, even topping the prior record numbers seen in the early days of COVID-19 lockdowns, according to the data from Antenna.

Antenna noted that while account cancellations also increased during the period from May 24-27, they did not rise as quickly as new signups.

The ratio of signups to cancels since May 23 is up 25.6 percent compared to the previous 60-day period, the firm said.

Here is the list of what is leaving Netflix in July 2023 in full:

July 1, 2023 #AnneFrank  Parallel Stories (2019) A Touch of Green (2016) Against the Tide (2014) Ali Baba ve 7 Cuceler (2015) American Gangster (2007) Austin Powers in Gold Member (2002) Austin Powers: International Man of Mystery (1997) Austin Powers: The Spy Who Shagged Me (1999) Bad Boys (1995) Bad Boys II (2003) Battleship (2012) Breakout (2010) Bruno (2009) Chappelles Show (Seasons 1-2) Cleo & Cuquin (Seasons 1-2) Closer (2004) End of Days (1999) For Colored Girls (2010) Friday Night Lights (2004) Friends with Money (2006) Heroes (1977) Home Again (2017) How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days (2003) How to Train Your Dragon (2010) I Know What You Did Last Summer (1997) Inside Man (2006) Inside Man: Most Wanted (2019) Jerry Maguire (1996) Kindergarten Cop (1990) Last Action Hero (1993) Legal Eagles (1986) Lemony Snickets A Series of Unfortunate Events (2004) LOL (2012) Marnie (1964) Matilda (1996) My Birthday Song (2018) Mystic Whispers (2014) National Lampoons Animal House (1978) National Security (2003) Out of Africa (1985) Peeples (2013) Pek Yaknda (2014) Pitch Perfect (2012) Psycho (1960) Puss in Boots (2011) Red Dragon (2002) Resident Evil (2002) Resident Evil: Afterlife (2010) Resident Evil: Apocalypse (2004) Resident Evil: Retribution (2012) Shrek Forever After (2010) Spice Up (2014) The Birds (1963) The Departed (2006) The Hangover (2009) The Oath (2011) The Silence of Others (2019) The Stepfather (2009) The Taking of Pelham 123 (2009) The Truth Seekers (2016) The Ultimatum (2009) Tower Heist (2011) Twins (1988) Unriddle (2012) Wild Card (2015) World at Your Feet (2014) World War Z (2013) Yes We Can! (2014) You Will Meet a Tall Dark Stranger (2010) Yours Fatefully (2012) Advertisement
Bam Margera's outing with a mystery woman Friday did nothing to alleviate his friends' concerns over his struggle with sobriety.

The 43-year-old former professional skateboarder who checked himself out of rehab on June 18, was spotted with the unidentified female companion Friday night in West Hollywood.

The Jackass star seemed to be trying to keep his presence somewhat low key.

He wore fitted black cargo pants, a black T-shirt and long black sweater with a hood placed over his head.

The Viva la Bam star wore dark sunglasses as well.

Mystery woman: Bam Margera, 43, was spotted with the unidentified female companion Friday night in West Hollywood, CA

Low-key: The reality star, who left rehab a couple of weeks ago, seemed to be trying to maintain a low-key profile, wearing dark sunglasses and covering up with a hooded sweater

His lady friend looked stylish in a purple jumpsuit with a plunging halter top and an elastic hem at the ankle.

Her long dark hair was styled in loose layers.

They walked with their arms around each other.

The outing comes as new court documents have emerged, in which Bam's estranged wife, Nicole 'Nikki' Boyd, claimed he once held a knife to his throat and 'yelled threatening words at me and alleged that I did not love him, making me fear for his life as well as my safety,' according to reporting from The Blast.

Nicole said at the time she did not have access to a car and called her brother in Northern California to come and get her.

She also claimed that when the Haggard writer and director was in a rehab center in Tampa, Florida, 'Bam started acting aggressive towards me, even with the therapists from his rehab center present.'

Nicole said after that, she returned to California with the couple's son, Phoenix, who will turn six in September.

Nikki says for the sake of their boy, 'I need to create a peaceful and steady life that is inconsistent with the ups and downs and dangerous behavior we get pulled into, particularly when Bam is on a bender but even when he is sober.'

The stunt performer was put on a 72 hour psychiatric hold, referred to as a 5150 hold in California  in early June after allegedly threatening to smoke crack until he died if he wasn't able to see his son.

Lamar Odom, 43, who has struggled with his own addiction, tried to come to his rescue, helping him find placement in a detox center in San Diego with plans to transfer to an Odom Wellness Treatment Center for more treatment.

Care-free: The couple walked with their arms around each other in West Hollywood

Safety: Court papers filed by Bam's estranged wife Nicole Boyd allege he once held a knife to his throat 'and yelled threatening words at me... making me fear for his life as well as my safety.' The couple share son Phoenix, who will turn six in September

Braced: Bam's former Jackass co-star Steve-O has tried to help the comedian get sober. After a now-deleted online rant Steve-O wrote, 'I wish you could know how much Ive hated feeling braced for news of your death, but youre making it clear that I have no other choice'

Bam's former Jackass castmate Steve-O took his old pal as an opening act on his Bucket List tour in the early part of 2023, but called him on the carpet for his bad behavior in response to one of Bam's now-deleted Instagram posts.

'Ive tired everything I can, but I cant force you to get honest and do the work of recovery,' Steve-O wrote.

'I wish you could know how much Ive hated feeling braced for news of your death, but youre making it clear that I have no other choice.

'Youre dying, brother, and it sucks that I cant do anything to save you.'
Davide Sanclimenti announced his shock split from Ekin-Su Culculoglu just two days ago and now reports have emerged on the reason behind the break-up.

The couple put on a united display at the Indiana Jones premiere on Monday, but within days the Love Island hunk, 27, told fans they had parted ways after 11 months of dating.

Now sources claim Davide felt he was in 28-year-old Ekin-Su's 'shadow' after she signed a number of lucrative deals with brands and blasted her for seeing their relationship as a 'money-making brand'.

'He felt swamped in the relationship, like he had totally lost his identity. He felt he was in Ekin's shadow, with no room to grow,' an insider told The Sun on Sunday.

'And he felt she cared more about them as a money-making brand than as a love match.

'He had been wanting to end it for some time. Davide didn't want to move in with her as he knew it would be harder to leave.'

Shock: Davide Sanclimenti announced his shock split from Ekin-Su Culculoglu just two days ago and now reports have emerged on the reason behind the break-up

All over: Davide is said to have dumped Ekin-Su after feeling he was 'in her shadow' she only cared about the two of them as a 'money-making brand'

MailOnline has contacted Ekin-Su and Davide's representatives for comment.

The Italian businessman took to Instagram on Thursday to share the sad news with his followers.

Davide wrote: 'Ekin-Su and I are no longer together. I am grateful for the memories and opportunities we shared together and I wish her nothing but the best.

'I would like for everybody to respect this decision during this difficult time. I will continue to support Ekin in anyway possible.'

Ekin-Su has yet to publicly comment on their split.

Sources have also claimed the relationship appeared to be on the rocks when Davide began partying with other women and putting himself in 'vulnerable positions'.

Ekin-Su was said to be left 'fuming and upset' in April after finding messages and pictures from two models on Davide's phone.

A source said at the time: 'It all exploded last Sunday after she found messages on Davide's phone discussing their time together.

'He had been messaging both of the girls and she suspected they had all met up one night.

'Ekin-Su contacted one of the girls to tell them she knew about things. She was furious and really upset.'

Rocky road: The couple put on a united display at the Indiana Jones premiere on Monday (pictured), but within days the Love Island hunk, 27, told fans they had parted ways

Getting on with it: Whilst Ekin-Su is yet to post anything on social media referencing the split, she uploaded a slew of stunning pictures to Instagram from her time away in Bodrum, Mugla

Angry: In April, Ekin-Su was said to be left 'fuming and upset' after finding messages and pictures from two models on Davide's phone

Over: The Italian hunk took to Instagram to share the sad news with his followers, just days after the couple attended the premiere of Indiana Jones And The Dial Of Destiny together

Winners: The couple were crowned series winners of Love Island in 2022, and moved in together after leaving the villa

After these allegations, it was revealed the pair had jetted off on a make-or-break trip to Amsterdam, but struggled to get their relationship back on track.

Davide is currently on holiday in Ibiza posting shirtless pictures of himself and gym videos  even hinting on a return to the Love Island villa after he captioned a post 'Guess who's coming back.'

And whilst Ekin-Su is yet to post anything on social media referencing the split, she uploaded a slew of stunning pictures to Instagram from her time away in Bodrum, Mugla.

MailOnline had reached out for comment from Davide and Ekin-Su's reps who are yet to respond.


the longest distance a sniper can shot target?

ChatGPT

The longest confirmed sniper kill in history is currently recorded at 3,540 meters (2.2 miles). This record was set by a Canadian sniper, Master Corporal Rob Furlong, in 2002 during the War in Afghanistan. However, it's important to note that the effective range of a sniper's weapon depends on various factors, including the type of firearm, ammunition, weather conditions, visibility, and the skill of the sniper. Different snipers and their equipment may have different effective ranges, so it is difficult to provide a definitive answer on the maximum distance a sniper can shoot a target.

Peace is a state of mind... "you don't want" is the reason "they don't want" ... make the best of what you got and, manners and respect to those around you. I believe will change your path for the better.

2

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[@BLAZENYCBLACKOPS]

@BLAZENYCBLACKOPS

3 hours ago

State of mind, you must first have to learn to become mentally strong, appreciate what you do have rather than dwelling on what you dont, only then will you find peace.
Ex-Chancellor George Osborne is to marry his former adviser Thea Rogers next Saturday, I can reveal.

The couple will tie the knot in the quaint Somerset town of Bruton, the trendy bolthole that has been dubbed 'the Notting Hill of the West' thanks to its influx of well-heeled celebrities such as Sam Taylor-Johnson and designers Stella McCartney and Alice Temperley.

George  now chairman of the British Museum  and his former chief of staff Thea bought a five-bedroom Grade II-listed house in the area for 1.6 million in 2020.

Their ceremony will take place at the 14th Century St Mary's Church and is likely to be attended by a string of political bigwigs such as former Prime Minister David Cameron and Levelling-Up Secretary Michael Gove.

George Osborne, 52, and Thea Rogers, 40, pictured in Mayfair, have announced their engagement

George, 52, and Thea, 40, announced their engagement in April 2021, with the former Chancellor saying at the time: 'I have probably never been happier in my life.'

The couple welcomed their first child, a son named Beau, in July of the same year.

As I revealed in this column, their second son Arthur was born on December 30 last year.

While the little ones will no doubt play a role in the ceremony, the jury is out as to whether George's older children, Luke and Liberty, from his first marriage to author Frances Howell, will attend. George and Frances divorced in 2019 after 21 years of marriage and George began dating Thea soon afterwards.

He announced his engagement to Thea  who recently said she would be stepping back from her executive role at food delivery firm Deliveroo  three days after what would have been his and Frances' 23rd wedding anniversary.

A church spokesman said: 'We are delighted to welcome Thea and George as they celebrate their wedding at St Mary's, as have so many other couples over the years.'

Now let's just hope the weather holds up...

Amelia's summer of love

Lady Amelia Windsor and new boyfriend Oli Lewis

It wasn't just the hedonism of Glastonbury that got Lady Amelia Windsor smiling last weekend, but also the chance to spend time with her new boyfriend, Ollie Lewis.

The Duke of Kent's granddaughter  dubbed the most beautiful Royal after gracing the cover of society bible Tatler  was snapped cosying up to Ollie, pictured.

Amelia, 27, and Ollie partied away alongside Amelia's older sister Lady Marina Windsor. Happy families indeed!
A Met gala without Anna Wintour? It might seem unthinkable but the Vogue supremo would have missed this year's New York bash, which attracts all the top stars from the film and fashion worlds, if she'd trusted her cyber-assistant.

Anna used artificial intelligence to create a seating chart for this year's event in May, she told the British Society of Magazine Editors last week. 'Unfortunately, it told me I was not invited,' she laughed.

Vogue editor Anna Wintour, 73, pictured attending this year's Met Gala celebrating 'Karl Lagerfeld: A Line Of Beauty', joked she was almost left off the AI-created guestlist

Anna Wintour is drawing up plans for London's own answer to the Met Gala at the Theatre Royal Drury Lane

It's no wonder the Vogue editor-in-chief, pictured right at this year's gala, was keen to warn of the 'existential threat' that AI poses to the media.

Anna, 73, is drawing up plans for London's own answer to the Met Gala at the Theatre Royal Drury Lane.

I'm sure Boris Johnson's wife Carrie will be glued to the new series of And Just Like That  as her cousin's restaurant features in the Sex And The City reboot.

New York restaurant Rosemarys is owned by Carrie Johnson's cousin and featured in Sex and the City reboot 'And Just Like That'

Carrie, 35, recently shared snaps on her private Instagram of stars Sarah Jessica Parker, left, Cynthia Nixon and Kristin Davis  who play Carrie Bradshaw, Miranda Hobbes and Charlotte York respectively  dining at Italian restaurant Rosemary's in New York.

Rosemary's is named after Carrie's aunt Rosemary (Johnson's daughter Romy is also named after her).

With Carrie expecting baby No 3, might I suggest Miranda or Charlotte for a name if it's a girl?

He owns owns Highclere Castle, where Downton Abbey is filmed, but the 8th Earl of Carnarvon still has to put out the bins! Revealing his man of the people credentials during an Oxford Union debate, he also said his staff is far smaller than that enjoyed by Lord Grantham. What, no Carson?
Sam Ibrahim, the brother of Kings Cross nightclub identity John Ibrahim, has slammed his portrayal in the controversial Paramount + series The Last King of the Cross.

In the hit series, the convicted gun runner is depicted as a killer and a drug-addicted bikie who struggles with his younger brother John's rise to power.

Speaking to The Sunday Telegraph this weekend, however, Sam branded his on-screen portrayal in the series as 'all crap'.

'I'm not saying I'm a saint. I've been charged with a few things in my life. But I've never been charged with murder and they've got me on the show shooting people and throwing someone out of a window. I've never done that,' he said.

'They've [also] got my character killing people and snorting cocaine with prostitutes. Don't get me wrong, I liked to party. But I never partied that much.'

Sam Ibrahim, the brother of Kings Cross nightclub identity John Ibrahim, has slammed his portrayal in the controversial Paramount + series The Last King of the Cross. (Pictured: Sam Ibraim exiting Sydney's Downing Centre after being sentenced for the kidnap of a 15 year old boy in 2011)

Sam also revealed he plans to get a court injunction to prevent a second season of the show from happening.

The first 10-part season starred Lincoln Younes as Kings Cross identity John, and focused on his relationship with his brother Sam (played by Claude Jabbour).

Both men were prominent figures in Sydney's nightclub district and the series explored key events in their lives, including John's near fatal stabbing and other attempts on his life.

Speaking to The Sunday Telegraph this weekend, however, Sam branded his on-screen portrayal in the series as 'all crap'. (Pictured L-R: Lincoln Younes and Claude Jabbour in a scene from Last King of the Cross)

Following the success of the first season, Paramount+ announced it will produce another eight episodes of the popular crime drama, which is based on Ibrahim's bestselling 2017 book.

According to Variety, the first season of the show was sold into multiple overseas territories including Germany, Italy, the UK, and Ireland.

Daniel Monaghan, senior VP, content and programming, Paramount Australia and New Zealand, said in a statement that The Last King of the Cross was the most watched local show on Paramount+.

The show will also stream in Canada on Paramount+ and Warner Bros. Discovery in New Zealand.
The BBC could lose its hit show The Traitors to rival channel ITV, The Mail on Sunday can reveal.

The commercial broadcaster is close to securing a deal to buy the company that makes the Bafta-winning programme  and if they do, they will be able to decide which network airs it.

Bosses would be happy to deny the BBC one of its biggest ratings hits if they can pull off the deal to acquire All3Media for 1 billion.

When it launched last year, The Traitors  which is hosted by Claudia Winkleman  instantly became one of the jewels in the BBC's crown.

Its first series, made by All3Media subsidiary Studio Lambert, attracted an average audience of 5.4 million and encouraged more young viewers to sign up for iPlayer than any other show.

The BBC could lose its hit show The Traitors to rival channel ITV, The Mail on Sunday can reveal

An industry insider said: 'The Traitors has been one of the biggest television success stories in recent years. It is also something that ITV bosses think would fit in so well on their own channel.

'Because they would own the company that makes it, they could do whatever they wanted with it.

'ITV know just what damage it would do to the BBC, but they have a business to run and they want to get the viewers watching their channel.'

It is the latest battle between the two broadcasters. They are currently at war over the poaching of each other's stars. The BBC has made audacious bids to give Holly Willoughby a prime time slot on the channel, while ITV has signed BBC names such as Graham Norton, Gary Lineker and Zoe Ball to front projects.

The first season of The Traitors, which was set in a Scottish castle, aired in November 2022. It showed 22 strangers fighting to win 120,000 by back-stabbing and lying to one another. It was so popular that a second series was commissioned in February.

If ITV acquired All3Media it could see Strictly Come Dancing host Ms Winkleman presenting an ITV programme for the first time in 15 years, as she is employed by the production company rather than the BBC. ITV is also keen to take Gogglebox, which is also made by Studio Lambert, from Channel 4. Industry insiders say that if ITV pull off the deal, it could prove a turning point for under-fire boss Dame Carolyn McCall, who has been embroiled in scandal since Phillip Schofield admitted lying about an affair.
Dixie D'Amelio looked stunning for a fun night out in Los Angeles on Friday evening.

As she made her arrival at Presley Gerber's star-studded birthday bash, the 21-year-old TikTok sensation put on a dazzling display in an off-the-shoulder crop top and a pair of baggy white jeans.

To go with the black and long-sleeved top with a sheer mesh panel covering the top half of her midriff, she sported a pair of chunky platform loafers.

The social media personality  who was seen last month in the same 'sl***y funeral dress' as worn by Vanderpump Rules star Ariana Madix  also matched her white bottoms with a white shoulder purse that she wore on her arm.

The older sister of Charli D'Amelio looked chic with her raven tresses styled in double Dutch braids as she arrived just shortly before YouTube star David Dobrik.

Jaw-dropping: Dixie D'Amelio, 21, looked stunning for a fun night out in Los Angeles on Friday evening at Presley Gerber's star-studded early birthday bash

Chic: The TikTok sensation put on a dazzling display in an off-the-shoulder crop top and a pair of baggy white jeans. To go with the black long-sleeve top with a sheer mesh panel covering the top half of her midriff, she sported a pair of chunky platform loafers

As she arrived at the late-night house party, Dixie threw on a pair of oversize aviator sunglasses for an additional touch to her overall ensemble.

She accessorized with a chunky silver choker and various statement rings to highlight her bold red manicure.

For makeup, she lined her eyes with kohl eyeliner for a subtle but sultry look.

She looked radiant and sun-kissed with ample bronzer and a generous application of pink blush on her cheeks.

Finally, she finished off the look with a matte dusty rose lip.

David pulled up shortly after Dixie made her arrival.

The social media star put on a casual display in an oatmeal-colored quarter-zip sweatshirt over a black T-shirt.

He also sported a pair of black slacks and cream sneakers with brown platforms.

Black-and-white: The social media personality matched her white bottoms with a white shoulder purse. The older sister of Charli D'Amelio looked chic with her raven black tresses styled in double Dutch braids as she arrived just shortly before YouTube star David Dobrik

Casual display: David Dobrik pulled up shortly after Dixie arrived. The social media star put on a casual display in an oatmeal-colored quarter-zip sweatshirt over a black T-shirt. He also sported a pair of black slacks and cream sneakers with brown platforms

He threw on a white trucker hat with a denim blue bill over his head and hair.

The social media stars were arriving in West Hollywood to attend an early celebration of Presley's 24th birthday on July 2.

Recently, Dixie has been busy promoting the launch of her family's footwear brand.

Earlier this year, the two sisters and their parents threw a party in West Hollywood to celebrate the launch of the business venture  a women's shoe company aptly tited D'Amelio Footwear.
Natasha Oakley married her liquor heir fiance Theo Chambers in a romantic ceremony in Capri, Italy, on Friday.

The bikini model looked glamorous in a lace wedding dress as her proud father Guy walked her down the aisle.

The 31-year-old, who is the co-owner of Monday Swimwear, couldn't wipe the smile from her face as she held her white floral bouquet and walked towards her groom.

Theo, who is the son of Chambers Cellar founder Steven Chambers, looked dapper in a black tuxedo, white buttoned shirt and bow tie as he waited for his bride at the altar.

After being pronounced as husband and wife, the newlyweds shared a kiss under a white floral arch.

Bikini model Natasha Oakley, 31, (left) stunned in a white lace wedding dress as she married liquor heir Theo Chambers in a stunning outdoor ceremony in Italy on Friday

The bikini model looked glamorous in a lace wedding dress as her proud father Guy walked her down the aisle

Natasha's half-sister Sophia Vantuno looked glamorous in a white dress as she acted as her bridesmaid.

Theo proposed to Natasha in July last year during a luxury holiday in Capri.

The pair have had an on/off relationship, and confirmed they were back together in March 2020, after a split in November 2019.

The 31-year-old couldn't wipe the smile from her face as she held her white floral bouquet and walked towards her groom

Theo looked dapper in a black tuxedo, white buttoned shirt and bow tie as he posed with his bride at the altar

Theo is the son of Chambers Cellar founder Steven Chambers

After being pronounced as husband and wife, the newlyweds shared a kiss under a floral arch

Natasha's half-sister Sophia Vantuno (centre) looked glamorous in a white dress as she acted as her bridesmaid

'I'm happy to share a lot, but my relationship is something I like to keep private,' Natasha told Stellar magazine in April 2020.

'As my career progresses and as I get older, privacy becomes more important,' she added.

Natasha had announced her split from Theo in November 2019, telling The Daily Telegraph: 'We broke up, [but] we're still really good friends.'

Theo proposed to Natasha in July last year during a luxury holiday in Capri, Italy

Guests cheered as the newlyweds walked down the aisle as husband and wife

Guests threw confetti on the newlyweds after the romantic ceremony

She added: 'I do travel a lot and have a very different lifestyle. We had an amazing relationship but these things happen in life.'

Despite being newly single at the time, Natasha insisted she was 'really happy'.

The pair started dating in late 2018 and confirmed their romance on New Year's Eve that year.

The bridal party were seen walking hand-in-hand with their partners as a photographer took photos

The newlyweds wrapped their arms around each other as they shared their first kiss as husband and wife

The pair have had an on/off relationship, and confirmed they were back together in March 2020, after a split in November 2019

Guests held white umbrellas to protect themselves from the scorching sun during the ceremony

The couple couldn't wipe the smile off their faces on their special day

She was previously in a relationship with French model Gilles Souteyrand, but the couple split in July 2018 after three years together.

Before that, Natasha dated beau French Big Brother star Martin Medus.

Natasha, whose A Bikini A Day blog morphed into her own swimwear range, debuted on the Financial Review Young Rich List in 2021 at number 71.

The model has 3.3million Instagram followers and an estimated worth of $63million thanks to her Monday Swimwear brand and online fitness program, The Pilates Class.

They started dating in late 2018 and confirmed their romance on New Year's Eve that year

Natasha, whose A Bikini A Day blog morphed into her own swimwear range, debuted on the Financial Review Young Rich List in 2021 at number 71
Lala Kent was spotted stepping out with her daughter Ocean in Los Angeles on Saturday.

The Vanderpump Rules star, 32, put on a casual display in an all-black ensemble with a T-shirt and biker shorts while out with her two-year-old daughter.

She was spotted getting into her car with her daughter after an afternoon of babysitting her former VR costar Brittany Cartwright's two-year-old son Cruz.

The television personality  who started filming for season 11 of the hit Bravo series earlier this week  also wore a white hoodie from her own brand tied around her waist, as well as all-white sneakers.

The Give Them Lala founder carried the toddler on her hip with one arm while she checked her cell phone with her free hand.

Mother-daughter outing: Lala Kent was spotted stepping out with her daughter, Ocean, in Los Angeles on Saturday. The Vanderpump Rules reality star, 32, put on a casual display in an all-black ensemble with a T-shirt and biker shorts while out with her two-year-old daughter

For their motherdaughter outing, the podcast host left her collarbone-length straight blonde hair down.

She also appeared to have opted for a makeup-free look to showcase her natural beauty.

The Give Them Lala author did not wear any accessories nor was seen carrying a bag but rocked a bold red manicure.

Previously, the entrepreneur welcomed her only child with her ex-fiance, Randall Emmett, in March 2021.

Kent first met the film producer in 2015 when she was working as a hostess at SUR  the restaurant of reality TV personality Lisa Vanderpump  and filming the fourth season of Vanderpump Rules.

Unbeknownst to Kent, Emmett was still married to his now-ex, Ambyr Childers.

Shortly after Emmett and Childers finalized their divorce, he proposed to Kent in 2018.

However, the newly-bethrothed couple had to postpone their wedding due to the pandemic.

In September 2020, Kent and Emmett announced they were having their first child together and welcomed Ocean in the following March.

Black-and-white: The television personality  who started filming for season 11 of the hit Bravo series earlier this week  also wore a white hoodie from her own brand tied around her waist as well as all-white sneakers

Her ex: Previously, the entrepreneur welcomed her only child with her ex-fiance, Randall Emmett, in March 2021. Kent first met the film producer in 2015 when she was working as a hostess at SUR  the restaurant of reality TV personality Lisa Vanderpump  and filming the fourth season of Vanderpump Rules

Strong single mother: In September 2020, Kent and Emmett announced they were having their first child together and welcomed Ocean in the following March. In October 2021, the pair called it quits

In October 2021, the pair called it quits after Kent accused Emmett of infidelity.

Following their split, she was caught in a messy legal battle with Emmett over custody of their daughter.

In 2022, serious allegations emerged including claims that Emmett was running a casting couch.

Amid the Scandoval controversy earlier this year, a documentary titled The Randall Scandal: Love, Loathing, and Vanderpump was released by Hulu and delved into the lawsuits, debts, and troubling allegations surrounding Kent's ex.
Jennifer Lawrence showed off her casual summer style and threw on a black mask amid concerns over the 'unhealthy' air quality in New York City on Saturday.

The No Hard Feelings actress, 32, who recently dressed to impress while attending a friend's courthouse wedding, slipped into a pair of loose-fitting, green cargo pants that were secured with a black belt around her waist.

The mother of one additionally wore a fitted black tank top and layered the look with a blue button up that was left unfastened to help her stay cool in the warmer temperatures.

She added a tan $35 Ralph Lauren cap on top of her head that partially covered her locks, which were pulled back into a simply ponytail.

The Oscar winner slipped into a pair of black-and-white Adidas sneakers to stay comfortable while walking about the city and held her phone in her hand rather than carrying a heavy purse.

Summer style: Jennifer Lawrence, 32, showed off her casual summer style and threw on a black face mask amid concerns over the 'unhealthy' air quality in New York City on Saturday

Keeping it casual: The No Hard Feelings actress slipped into a pair of loose-fitting, green cargo pants that were secured with a black belt around her waist

Jennifer completed her look by wearing a pair of ear buds as well as a face mask due to the recent poor air quality.

According to the New York Daily News, smoke from the Canadian wildfires once again made its away down towards the Big Apple, and caused an 'unhealthy' air quality.

On Friday, the city became the 'second-worst air quality in the world,' reported the publication.

The star's brief outing comes shortly after she opened up about her relationship with husband, Cooke Maroney, whom she tied the knot with in 2019 and also shares one-year-old son, Cy.

During a recent appearance on Chicken Shop Date with Amelia Dimoldenberg, Jennifer was asked what it 'feels like' to be proposed to. The Hunger Games actress admitted that it was, 'Terrifying, but very, very exciting.'

'I didn't say what I wanted to,' she revealed. 'I imagined it a million times, and then I ended up just going, "What? What? What?'" And then going, "Thank you, thank you, thank you."

She began dating the art gallery director in 2018, and he later popped the big question in February 2019. Later that same year, the two lovebirds said 'I do' during a romantic ceremony, with celebrity guests in attendance, such as Adele and Emma Stone.

While talking to Interview Magazine with Cameron Diaz last month in June, Jennifer discussed motherhood and whether she has time to 'squeeze in' a lot of projects. Lawrence stated, 'Theres no squeezing when you have a baby'.

'Theres just home, and its the best. It definitely helps weed out projects: "Yes. No. Yes. No. Yes. No. Is this worth being away from my child for half the day?"'

The star then gushed that, 'fortunately, my husband is the greatest father in the entire world, so when Im working, I dont have any more guilt than the usual every day, all-day parent guilt.'

Jennifer recently celebrated the premiere of her latest R-rated raunchy comedy titled, No Hard Feelings, which released in theaters on June 23. She joined other co-stars such as Andrew Barth Feldman, Lauren Benanti, and also Matthew Broderick.

The premise follows an Uber driver (Lawrence) facing bankruptcy who responds to a Craigslist add to date a parents' 19-year-old son (Feldman) before he heads to college in exchange for a car.

Lawrence, who recently shot down rumors that she had an affair with Liam Hemsworth when he was with Miley Cyrus, notably has tackled dramas in the past, and surprised fans when she took on a leading role in the comedy, which was directed by Gene Stupnitsky.

Relaxing stroll: She added a tan-colored, $35 Ralph Lauren cap on top of her head that partially covered her locks which were pulled back into a simply ponytail

'Unhealthy' air quality: According to the New York Daily News , smoke from the Canadian wildfires once again made its away down towards the Big Apple, and caused an 'unhealthy' air quality

Opening up: The star's brief outing comes shortly after she opened up about her relationship with husband, Cooke Maroney, whom she tied the knot with in 2019

'Greatest father': The star gushed to Interview Magazine, 'fortunately, my husband is the greatest father in the entire world, so when Im working, I dont have any more guilt than the usual every day, all-day parent guilt'; seen in June in Madrid

Latest project: Jennifer recently celebrated the premiere of her latest R-rated raunchy comedy titled, No Hard Feelings, which opened on June 23; seen with costar Andrew Barth Feldman in June in NYC

While recalling her time filming the movie, she also told Interview Magazine that the experience 'was a blast' and added, 'Ive always wanted to do comedy and Ive been asked a million times.'

'I was never against it, but youve seen the movies that come out. I dont want to name anything specifically, but there hasnt been anything that funny.'

She later expressed, 'I felt a unique sadness when wrapping this one, because its so nice when you feel so confident while filming a movie...' and gushed about the 'chemistry between the cast and the crew.'

Jennifer has been keeping busy, and was seen on the streets of NYC earlier this week glammed up while shooting a Longines commercial with three adorable dogs.
Strictly Ballroom choreographer John 'Cha Cha' O'Connell has listed his Bondi Beach apartment for $1.1 million.

According to The Daily Telegraph this week, the home is just a stone throw away from the famous beach on Campbell Parade.

The one-bedroom flat features its own top floor, sun-drenched alfresco area in the interwar Art Deco style building.

The quirky offering has 34sqm of internal space coupled with a 20sqm terrace in a security building sitting at the locale's premier address.

Sitting in a block of 16 apartments, the building is pet friendly with sales in the building going above $1 million over the past eight years.

Strictly Ballroom choreographer John 'Cha Cha' O'Connell (pictured) has listed his quirky Bondi Beach home for $1.1 million according to a report in The Daily Telegraph this week. Pictured

The new owner will be able to literally walk across the road to the country's most famous stretch of beach.

O'Connell is known for his choreography work on 1992 film Strictly Ballroom, which was directed by his longtime collaborator and friend Baz Luhrmann.

He also received the American Choreography Award for his work on Luhrmann's 2001 film Moulin Rogue! starring Nicole Kidman.

In an interview with The National Film and Television Achieve, O'Connell spoke about his first meeting with Luhrmann in Sydney's King's Cross.

The one-bedroom features its own top floor, sun-drenched alfresco area in the interwar Art Deco style building

The quirky offering has 34sqm of internal space coupled with a 20sqm terrace in a security building sitting at the locale's premier address

The home features a renovated bathroom with a bathtub

O'Connell said he likened his first meeting with Luhrmann to a blind date.

Baz needed a choreographer for a low-budget music clip he was directing with the budget just $2,000.

'I remember going to see him at his place in Kings Cross. I thought he looked a bit mad and he thought I was a bit mad too,' O'Connell said.

'His flat had no furniture, so we just sat on the floor and talked about the video clip as if the budget was two million dollars, instead of two thousand.'
Jax Taylor has let slip about his return to Vanderpump Rules during a boozy night out at an an appearance at a nightclub in Atlantic City, New Jersey.

The reality personality, 43, let the cat out of the bag while on stage at the event on Friday, telling fans: 'It's been two years, but I'm ready to be back!'

Jax was fired from the show three years ago amid a racism storm involving his former co-stars Stassi Schroeder and Kristen Doute's actions against Faith Stowers.

However promising a fiery return, he said: 'And I am going to bring it. I promise you, I will bring it! The people on.... actually I'm probably saying too much night now! The people who need to be brought in on, I will bring it.'

It is likely that Jax was referring to the explosive finale of season 10, which revealed that Tom Sandoval had been having a months-long affair with Raquel Leviss.

Oops! Jax Taylor has let slip about his return to Vanderpump Rules during a boozy night out at an an appearance at a nightclub in Atlantic City, New Jersey

The reality star and actor attended the NOLA's fifth anniversary celebration and while mingling with partygoers and handing out swag, he seemingly opened up about his future on the Bravo reality show.

Jax - born Jason Michael Cauchi - said: 'I'm here to drink, take pictures and talk Vanderpump, and let's do that for a minute, talk Vanderpump.'

The former model didn't give specific details on a potential return to the Bravo reality TV world, but an eyewitness at the nightclub revealed to Us Weekly that he was 'smiling and grinning like he was telling a secret.'

While fans will no doubt hope Jax is returning to the original show, it is likely he was referring to the spin-off that is in the works.

NBCUniversal is planning a derivative of the show after a spike in ratings following 'Scandoval' - the cheating scandal that shocked fans earlier this year, Deadline reported on Wednesday.

The eight-episode season will reportedly follow a group of close friends who have swapped their lives in West Hollywood for a calmer, family-oriented lifestyle in The Valley.

The outlet said that Jax and Brittany will be part of the cast, as well as Kristen.

Mingling: The reality star and actor attended the NOLA's fifth anniversary celebration and while mingling with partygoers and handing out swag, he seemingly opened up about his future on the Bravo reality show

Exit: Jax was fired from the show three years ago amid a racism storm involving his former co-stars Stassi Schroeder and Kristen Doute's actions against Faith Stowers

Fan Friendly: Jax shared about his future with Bravo, and Vanderpump Rules, while greeting crowds of fans at the party along the Jersey Shore

Season 11 of Vanderpump Rules is currently underway, set to show the aftermath of the devastating affair between co-stars Raquel and Tom that broke up Tom's nine-year relationship with Ariana Madix, another star on the show.

Deals for the forthcoming reality television show haven't been completed yet

Taylor, who was one of the shows original cast members and controversial breakout stars, was fired from the show in December 2020, along with his wife Brittany Cartwright, for accusing fellow cast member Faith of a crime she did not commit.

Original cast members Stassi and Kristen were the first to be let go, in connection to the controversy, after being accused of making racist comments against Stowers.

Initially, Taylor seemed shocked by his firing. But when he announced his departure from Vanderpump Rules on social media, he sounded as if it was his decision to leave.

'The last 8 years on Vanderpump Rules have been some of the most challenging, rewarding and fulfilling years of my life,' Taylor began in an Instagram post.

'Although this is difficult to share, Brittany and I will not be returning for another season of Vanderpump Rules.'

He continued, 'We are excited to take this time to focus on our growing family and share with you our new endeavors. @bravotv, @evolutionusa and our Vanderpump castmates will always remain close to our hearts. Thank you to all the fans who have shared our journey with us and supported us through everything.'

However, some viewers had clamored for him to get the boot as well, as he had also accused Stowers of crimes in a tweet.

Jax and Brittany began dating in 2015, got engaged three years later, and eventually got married in Kentucky on June 29, 2019, which means they celebrated their fourth anniversary two days ago.

The couple would welcome their first child together, son Cruz, in April 2021.

Taylor showcased the adorable little boy in a few video clips that were posted on his Instagram Stories, showing him running to his dad the moment he arrived back home.

He followed up with a couple more videos of the father-son duo sharing several loving hugs and kisses while lounging on the couch at home.

A return to Vanderpump Rules in some fashion would come in the wake of Taylor and Cartwright providing commentary for a season 10 episodes earlier this year, as well as a recap of the show's most recent season, that premiered February 8, for Peacock subscribers.

The Watch Me miniseries reportedly enhanced their interest in returning to Vanderpump Rules for season 11, which is currently shooting.

Divulging: 'I'm here to drink, take pictures and talk Vanderpump, and let's do that for a minute, talk Vanderpump, let's just say, I will bring it,' Taylor said inside the NOLA club'

Family love: Before returning home from the Atlantic City event, Taylor's wife Brittany Cartwright and son Cruz were eagerly awaiting his arrival

Quality time: Dad and son played on the couch after returning from the Nightclub appearance

Controversy: Taylor, who was one of the original cast members and controversial breakout stars, was fired from Vanderpump Rules in December 2020, along with his wife Brittany Cartwright, for accusing fellow cast member Faith Stowers of a crime she did not commit

Spin-off show chatter: Taylor and Cartwright's names have been mentioned as being part of a Vanderpump Rules spin-off in recent days, although nothing has been made official; the couple and their son in Las Vegas on June 9

'We're definitely getting the itch because it was fun to have the cameras over and have crew over,' Cartwright, 34, revealed Us Weekly last month.

'Going through that whole lifestyle again was so fun. Like, when we did Watch What Happens Live [With Andy Cohen], I got a little teary backstage because this was such a big part of my life for six years basically  and for Jax, like, nine. So, it just felt really good to do those things again.'

Among all the recent chatter about Vanderpump Rules and its former two stars: a reunion of Taylor, Cartwright and fellow alum Kristen Doute for a new spin-off series that will reportedly follow a group of friends who have swapped their lives in West Hollywood for a family-oriented lifestyle.

So far there's hasn't been any official word on whether the show and the cast are a done deal since the news was made public June 28.
PRETORIA, SOUTH AFRICA 

South African Minister of International Relations Naledi Pandor accused the West of sometimes taking a patronizing and bullying attitude toward Africa, as she hosted U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken on the first leg of his Africa visit. Pandor made it clear that South Africa has different views from the U.S. on Ukraine, China, and Israel and the Palestinians.

At a joint press conference in the South African capital, Blinken stressed he was not on his three-country tour of the continent in order to counter Moscow and Beijings growing influence in the region, as has been widely speculated, after Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov visited last month.

Our commitment to a stronger partnership with Africa is not about trying to outdo anyone else, Blinken said.

Blinken spoke, too, about U.S. support of Ukraine, saying Russias invasion was an aggression against the entire international order.

South Africa has remained neutral on the conflict with Russia, its partner in the BRICS group of countries, and abstained from any U.N. votes on the matter, though Pandor said the country abhorred war and would like to see an end to the conflict.



However, she said the different approaches by the international community to different conflicts sometimes leads to cynicism about international bodies. She referenced the plight of the Palestinians.

Just as much as the people of Ukraine deserve their territory and freedom, the people of Palestine deserve their territory and freedom, she said, and we should be equally concerned at what is happening to the people of Palestine as we are with what is happening to the people of Ukraine. Weve not seen an even-handed approach.

Pandor added that while it didnt come from Blinken, South Africa had experienced pressure from some in the West to align with its policy on Ukraine. She also appeared to criticize the U.S. bill passed in April, Countering Malign Russian Activities in Africa Act, which has been seen by some on the continent as a vehicle to punish African countries that have not toed the line on Ukraine.

From some of our partners in Europe and elsewhere, there has been a sense of patronizing bullying  You choose this or else. And the recent legislation passed in the United States of America by the House of Representatives, we found a most unfortunate bill.

Bob Wekesa, director of the African Center for the Study of the United States, said Pandors candid remarks at the press conference showed the closed-door meeting between the U.S. and South African sides must have been a very difficult one.

I think the U.S. is attempting to figure out how to get South Africa on to its side, but South Africa is not coming to the party, Wekesa said.

Blinken was in Pretoria to launch the new U.S. Strategy for Sub-Saharan Africa, which focuses on areas such as climate change, trade, health and food insecurity.

During his remarks Monday, he also criticized Beijing for its strong reaction to House speaker Nancy Pelosi's visit to Taiwan.

Pandor would not comment specifically on Taiwan but did say South Africa did not want to be made party to a conflict between China and the U.S.
Tom Cruise made a rockstar arrival at Sydney Harbour on Sunday as he attended a media event for his new film Mission Impossible - Dead Reckoning.

The Hollywood icon was joined by his co-stars Pom Klementieff, Hayley Atwell and Simon Pegg, at a wharf overlooking Sydney's spectacular Harbour Bridge and Opera House.

Dressed in a black jacket, blue T-shirt and dark jeans, the action star was in his element as he posed for photos in front of a media wall.

He completed his look with a pair of classic aviator style sunglasses and leather boots.

With the stunning Sydney Harbour vista behind him, the 60-year-old could not wipe the smile off his face.

Tom Cruise, 60, (pictured) made a rockstar arrival at Sydney Harbour on Sunday as he attended a media event for his new film Mission Impossible - Dead Reckoning

The Hollywood icon posed for photos at a wharf overlooking Sydney's spectacular Harbour Bridge and Opera House

He joined his co-stars Pom Klementieff (right), Hayley Atwell (second from left) and Simon Pegg (left)

Turning heads was Hayley Atwell, who looked stunning in a red satin slip dress that skimmed her impressive figure, paired with Aquazzura heels.

The British actress added a pair of strappy metallic heels and kept her accessories light, wearing a gold ring and matching earrings.

The 41-year-old opted for a clean makeup look and a coral lip stain while wearing her brunette locks down around her face.

She braved the crisp Sydney cold, posing in the sleeveless gown alongside her co-stars by the water's edge.

Tom was dressed in a black jacket, blue T-shirt and dark jeans

With the stunning Sydney Harbour vista behind him, the 60-year-old could not wipe the smile off his face

Tom was looking very youthful indeed for his 60 years

The action star was in his element as he posed for photos in front of a media wall

The Sydney Harbour Bridge made for a breathtaking backdrop

Tom was his usual friendly self, waving at onlookers

Simon Pegg made a dapper appearance in a cream linen suit paired with a simple white T-shirt.

The English actor added layered necklaces including a dog tag on a chain and a silver pendant.

The 53-year-old arrived in a pair of orange designer sunglasses which he later removed for photos.

Simon and Tom displayed their excellent rapport, embracing one another and sharing a joke as they lined up for photos.

Turning heads was Hayley Atwell, who looked stunning in a red satin slip dress that skimmed her impressive figure

The British actress kept her accessories light, wearing a gold ring and matching earrings

The 41-year-old opted for a clean makeup look and a coral lip stain while wearing her brunette locks down around her face

Hayley and Tom shared a friendly moment by the water's edge

Simon Pegg made a dapper appearance in a cream linen suit paired with a simple white T-shirt

The English actor added layered necklaces including a dog tag on a chain and a silver pendant

The 53-year-old arrived in a pair of orange designer sunglasses which he later removed for photos

Simon and Tom displayed their excellent rapport

They embraced one another and shared a joke as they lined up for photos

Pom Klementieff looked sensational in a 1960s inspired mini dress with a very unusual design.

The frock included thatched squares of fabric that were stacked and flowed in the breeze.

The French actress added a pair of pointed satin stilettos worn with sheer white polka dots socks.

The 37-year-old wore her blonde bob slicked off her face and opted for a warm-toned makeup look with a pink lip gloss.

Pom Klementieff looked sensational in a 1960s inspired mini dress with a very unusual design

The frock included thatched squares of fabric that were stacked and flowed in the breeze

She skipped the accessories but for a pair of dainty gold earrings and let her high fashion dress do the talking

The 37-year-old wore her blonde bob slicked off her face and opted for a warm-toned makeup look with a pink lip gloss

The French actress added a pair of pointed satin stilettos worn with sheer white polka dots socks

The cast posed alongside director Christopher McQuarrie (far right)

The official trailer for the upcoming Mission: Impossible installment was recently released

The heart-stopping, high-speed clip showed plenty of action scenes with the Hollywood actor, whose film Top Gun: Maverick was a massive summer 2022 hit

This is Tom's seventh MI film and will be released in Australian theatres on July 14

She skipped the accessories but for a pair of dainty gold earrings and let her high fashion dress do the talking.

The official trailer for the upcoming Mission: Impossible installment was recently released.

The heart-stopping, high-speed clip showed plenty of action scenes with the Hollywood actor, whose film Top Gun: Maverick was a massive summer 2022 hit.

This is Tom's seventh MI film and will be released in Australian theatres on July 14.

Returning to the sequel are Tom's usual sidekicks - veteran Hollywood names Ving Rhames, Rebecca Ferguson, and Vanessa Kirby.
Ryan Gosling spilled on being a 'Barbie dad' and humorously revealed that he has difficultly keeping up with his two daughters' dolls due to their 'complicated backstories.'

The Barbie star, 42, who put on a stylish display in a blue suit during a Toronto press conference, opened up about Barbie playtime with his daughters, Esmeralda, eight, and Amada, seven, while talking to ET Canada at the event on Thursday.

When asked by the interviewer if he was a 'good Barbie dad' and if he can role-play with the dolls, The Notebook actor explained, 'Well, you have to know, my kids, their Barbies arent even named Barbie.'

He added, 'They all have their own names, very complicated lives, backstories, interrelationships, history, you gotta know it all.'

The Golden Globe winner, who tackles the role of Ken in the upcoming live-action Barbie movie, then gave the example that if he began playing with dolls that were 'estranged now' but wasn't aware, 'its like, "Get out of here."'

Being a Barbie dad: Ryan Gosling, 42, humorously revealed to ET Canada that he has difficultly keeping up with his two daughters Barbie dolls and their rather 'complicated backstories'; seen in June in Toronto

'They don't even talk!' he continued, while bringing up their Ken doll and hilariously stated that in his daughters' Barbie world, 'He works at a grocery store, he's not a fireman...,' and adamantly repeated, 'You gotta know.'

Ryan attended the star-studded Toronto press conference alongside other fellow castmates, including Simu Liu, and he was accompanied by his sister Mandi Gosling for the festivities as he briefly returned to his home country of Canada.

During the ET Canada interview, the star discussed tackling the role of Ken and finding his 'Kenergy' (Ken + Energy), with his sister cutting in to state, 'It felt like such a no-brainer to me... Like, of course he's Ken!'

She sweetly turned to her brother and told him, 'You had to look for the Kenergy, but I always knew it was there.' He responded with, 'Wow, that's beautiful. Thanks.'

Gosling then explained that, 'Well, shes my original Barbie,' tilting his head towards Mandi, who quickly explained that she had 'never owned a Barbie.'

The Gray Man actor expressed, 'Because she was too busy being Barbie. She was doing all the things all the time. You know, getting me to school safely and then she was the president of that school. She had more meetings than classes.'

'It was Barbie land. When I got to set I was like, "This is just like my house,''' he humorously added.

Ryan shares his two daughters with fellow actress and longtime partner Eva Mendes, whom he first met on set of The Place Beyond The Pines. The lovebirds officially began dating in 2011 and have been inseparable since.

During an interview with GQ, Ryan talked about parenthood with Mendes, and sweetly gushed that before meeting Eva, 'I was looking for her, you know?' and added that 'it all makes sense now.'

He also revealed that when he hits an obstacle when it comes to parenting, 'I just lean on Eva. She knows whats important, always. She just somehow knows. So if ever Im in my head about it, I just ask her.'

Gosling admitted that before meeting the Hitch actress, 'I wasnt thinking about kids,' but, 'after I met Eva, I realized that I just didnt want to have kids without her.'

The La La Land star continued, 'And there were moments on The Place Beyond The Pines here we were pretending to be a family, and I didnt really want it to be pretend anymore. I realized that this would be a life I would be really lucky to have.'

Opening up: The Barbie star opened up about Barbie playtime with his daughters, Esmeralda, eight, and Amada, seven, while talking at the event on Thursday

Role-playing: When asked by the interviewer if he was 'good Barbie dad' and can role-play with the dolls, The Notebook actor explained, 'Well, you have to know, my kids, their Barbies arent even named Barbie'; seen in June in Los Angeles

He also revealed that his daughters Barbie dolls, including Ken, also played a part in him taking on the role in Greta Gerwig's project.

Ryan referenced to their Ken doll and recalled, 'I did see him, like, face down in the mud outside one day, next to a squished lemon and it was like, This guys story does need to be told, you know?'

The happy couple notably remain private about their personal lives and their children.

Back in 2020, Eva penned on Instagram, per People, 'I have always had a clear boundary when it comes to my man and my kids. I'll talk about them of course, with limits, but I won't post pictures of our daily life.'

'Since my children are still so little and don't understand what posting their image really means, I don't have their consent. And I won't post their image until they're old enough to give me consent.'

With the Barbie movie slated to premiere in theaters later this month on July 21, press events are in full swing to promote the film, which is directed by Greta Gerwig.

Last week, Margot Robbie, who tackles the leading role of Barbie and also is one of the movie's producers, donned a pink and white polka dot outfit to kick off the start of the global press tour.

While Ryan and Simu were spotted in Toronto on Thursday, Margot and Greta whisked themselves away to Sydney, Australia for a special fan event.

Gerwig, who is known for directing past films such as Little Women (2019) and Lady Bird (2017), not only took on the role as director of the upcoming fantasy comedy, but also co-wrote the screenplay with Noah Baumbach.

The Barbie movie not only stars Margot, but also Ryan Gosling, America Ferrera, Will Ferrell, Issa Rae, Hari Nef, Simu Liu, Michael Cera and Dua Lipa. Various versions of both the Barbie and Ken dolls will be portrayed, with actress Helen Mirren narrating the film.

Lovebirds: The star shares his two daughters with fellow actress and longtime partner, Eva Mendes, whom he first met on set of The Place Beyond The Pines

Press tour: With the Barbie movie slated to premiere in theaters later this month on July 21, press events are in full swing to promote the film, which is directed by Greta Gerwig; co-stars Ryan and Margot seen in April in Las Vegas

Road to happiness: The premise of the movie, which has a budget of $100 million, follows Barbie and Ken as they travel to the real world in order to find the true meaning of happiness

Countdown: Last week, Margot Robbie, who tackles the leading role of Barbie and also was one of the movie's producers, donned a pink and white polka dot outfit to kick off the start of the global press tour

Hitting the road: While Ryan and Simu were spotted in Toronto on Thursday, Margot and Greta whisked themselves away to Sydney, Australia for a special fan event; seen late last month in Sydney

The premise of the movie, which has a budget of $100 million, follows Barbie and Ken as they travel to the real world in order to find the true meaning of happiness.

Ahead of the film's official release, the first review has just hit newsstands. Time Magazine's Eliana Dockterman praised the performances of Margot and Ryan, writing that the movie is a 'fun yet self-aware romp with shades of Clueless and Legally Blonde.'

'Both Barbie and Ken go on quests of self-discovery, and that's when things get really interesting,' she wrote, adding, 'Ryan Gosling nearly steals the show.'

The review also called the film's musical numbers a cross between 'Grease and Singin' in the Rain.'
Taylor Swift left hundreds of thousands of Aussie fans disappointed when she announced she would not be playing shows in Brisbane, Perth and Adelaide.

Now a music industry has revealed their simply wasn't enough time to sandwich shows in Perth, Brisbane and Adelaide.

'With big tours like this, the directive would come from the artist,' the insider told The West Australian.

'Taylor would have said, "I only have time to do two cities. I don't have time to go around the country". It's a directive that comes from the artist.'

Others close to the American popstar previously insisted it was impossible for Swift to squeeze in a WA trip due to 'global dates and production'.

Taylor Swift left hundreds of thousands of Aussie fans disappointed when she announced she would not be bringing her The Eras world tour to Brisbane , Perth and Adelaide

The real reason behind Swift's decision to snub the three major cities all comes down to logistics

Swift is coming from Japan and then heading to Singapore straight after.

With Australia's allocation of only two weeks' worth of dates, only two cities could feasibly be incorporated into the itinerary.

Lister explained to ABC Radio Brisbane: 'There just wasn't time to keep leapfrogging from city to city.'

Harvey Lister, the Chairman of ASM Global Asia Pacific, said Swift initially intended to play at Brisbane's Lang Park stadium and Adelaide Oval, but as global tour dates started to fall into place, Australia was unfortunately 'sandwiched' due to geographical logistics

With Australia's allocation of only two weeks' worth of dates, only two cities could feasibly be incorporated into the itinerary

Despite the logistical challenges, the capacity of the stadiums in Brisbane and Adelaide was not an issue.

Interestingly, despite having a much smaller population than Japan, Australia had more tour dates than Tokyo, a testament to Swift's popularity in the country.

Swift's promoters even indicated that they could have held back-to-back dates in Australia for a month, although this would not have been sustainable throughout the duration of the tour.

'So the date period for Australia, which initially was going to be longer, when the tour was also coming to Brisbane, it got sandwiched between other dates in other countries, and effectively Australia was between Japan and Singapore,' Lister explained.

He reassured fans by recalling the last two times Swift toured Australia, with both concerts at Lang Park selling out.

'There's no doubt there's an enormous, enormous interest from Swifties right across the country and it's just unfortunate,' he said.

Another top music promoter told Daily Mail Australia fans should be happy that Swift is even making her way over Down Under, with many mega stars opting not to include Australia on their tours.

'Just be happy and thankful she's even coming. It's very disrespectful to have these petitions and people complain. She can't play in every country's major city. It's impossible for one artist,' they said.

The Pennsylvania native will be performing seven concerts in Australia in February, three in Melbourne and four in Sydney.

The new gigs are in addition to the existing Melbourne concerts on February 16, 17 and 18 and Sydney shows on February 23, 24, 25 and 26.

All shows are now sold out.
Kady McDermott was reportedly is in a relationship with a man who has been charged with money laundering more than 350,000.

The Love Island star, 27, who has returned to the show after appearing on series two, was said to be linked to a man named Liam Greer before jetting off to Mallorca.

Although Kady has been growing close to Zachariah Noble, 25, it has been speculated the reason she has been holding back is due to someone on the outside.

According to sources, Kady and Liam, 30, had been together for more than a year and have been on several luxurious getaways together. Liam declined to comment when approached by the Sun.

A source told the publication: 'Kady has remained tight-lipped over her mystery man Liam after previous high-profile relationships and splits.

Speculation: Kady McDermott was reportedly is in a relationship with a man who has been charged with money laundering more than 350,000

'She should have been aware of the police investigation as detectives went looking for him at her house.

'It could be why their relationship has been shrouded in secrecy - but that hasn't stopped them going from strength to strength.'

An ITV spokesperson told MailOnline: 'Kady was single at the time of entering the Villa.'

It is a key requirement for Love Island that all Islanders are single when they enter the show with the hope of finding romance.

In February 2022, Kady and Liam reportedly celebrated Valentine's day at the five-star Bvlgari Hotel when he was under police investigation.

Later the same year they also holidayed in the Maldives and Ibiza.

Most recently, Kady and Liam have been seen coming and going from her Hertfordshire bungalow up until the week she flew out to the show.

The Sun have said Police grew suspicious when 300,000 had been sent to his account from several different sources, who are all still yet to be traced.

Fake romance? Although Kady has been growing close to Zachariah Noble, 25, it has been speculated the reason she has been holding back is due to someone on the outside

Because he was said to be living with Kady at the time, the news outlet have claimed that Kady's home was searched during the investigation.

During an appearance at Harrow Crown Court in April this year, Greer was charged with acquiring criminal property and admitted laundering 359,700.

Greer pleaded guilty to the charges and will be sentenced next Friday. The jail sentence is up to five years.

A Met Police spokesman said: 'A police investigation by specialist officers has resulted in a man pleading guilty to laundering over 300,000.

'Liam Greer, 30, from Watford, Herts pleaded guilty at an earlier hearing at Harrow Crown Court to laundering 359,700.

'He will be sentenced at the same court on Friday, 7 July.

Shock news:According to sources, Kady and Liam, 30, had been together for more than a year and have been on several luxurious getaways together. Liam declined to comment when approached by the Sun

'The conviction follows an investigation by officers from the Met's Central Specialist Crime.'

Earlier this week, fans admitted they were convinced Kady has 'secret boyfriend' at home after they accused the influencer of being 'uninterested' and entering for 'the cheque.'

Following the influencer's return to the show, which comes seven years after her first appearance, viewers have been questioning her relationship status.

During Tuesday's show, the girls were tasked with showing off their kissing skills, as they locked lips with the men, and then given scores.

However, Kady failed to deliver coming in last place with fans at home left equally as unimpressed as she failed to bring the drama.

After stealing Zachariah from Molly Marsh, she rejected his advances and then called him by her ex boyfriend, and former contestant, Scott Thomas' name.

Taking to Twitter one fan shared: 'Kady.. This is madness just go home. Take a page from Mackenzies book and bow out.

'The brand deals are still there as well as your boyfriend you are being loyal to (as one can be on dating show).'

Another added: 'Apart from Kady sending Molly home what is the point in her? Especially if the rumours are true and she has a boyfriend at home. Where is the nightmare Kady we got in series 2?'

'The boyfriend rumours seem more true every time I see Kady in another scene. Shes giving absolutely nothing!' a third posted.

Someone else wrote: 'Kady looks FED UP. Send her back to her boyfriend pls.'

'I feel like Kady is always looking worried about her boyfriend at home,' another fan joked.

Fans slammed Kady's return to the villa, branding the influencer 'uninterested' when she didn't kiss the boys during a challenge.

Unfortunately, Kady found herself last on the leaderboard after the boys awarded her just 31.5 points, with Jess Harding coming in first place with 62.5.

Thoughts: Following the influencer's return to the show, which comes seven years after her first appearance, viewers have been left questioning her relationship status

Secret boyfriend: However, Kady failed to deliver coming in last place with fans at home left equally as unimpressed as she failed to bring the drama

Sharing their thoughts on Twitter one fan wrote: 'Kady is there for the cheque and shes not even trying to make an effort to make it believable.'

'Ngl dont think they should of bought back Kady, she just looks so uninterested and out of place,' another added.

A third shared: 'Whats Kady doing there, because the bomb is not shelling.'

'Kady rates absolutely no man in that villa - shes here to collect her cheque #LoveIsland,' someone else agreed.

One viewer posted: 'I don't think Kady was the right bombshell to be brought back, they should have brought someone who was on the show at most two years ago not seven.'

'Is Kady getting paid to be here?? Would explain a lot,' another questioned.

It comes after Kady had another awkward moment with Zach on Tuesday's episode of Love Island.

The bombshell has already rejected Zach's attempt at a kiss, but during the show she also mistakenly called him by her ex boyfriend's name.

Oh no! It comes after she stole Zachariah Noble from Molly Marsh, then rejected his advances and called him by her ex boyfriend, and former contestant, Scott Thomas' name

Kady coupled up with Scott after entering the series two villa as a bombshell. The two carried on their romance after the show, but split after one year together.

Fans were left suffering second-hand embarrassment when Kady rejected Zachariah's kiss attempt in Monday's episode.

Personal trainer Zach, 25, took returning islander Kady up to the terrace in the hope of an intimate moment, just days after they coupled up together.

But his romantic plot didn't exactly go to plan as Kady rejected his attempt to go in for a kiss as she said it was too soon.


Lindsay Lohan reportedly wants to have 'three or four' children.

The pregnant actress, 36, is currently expecting her first child, a baby boy, with her husband Bader Shammas, also 36.

And as she awaits the arrival of her first, it's claimed that Lindsay 'definitely wants' more kids as this pregnancy has been 'smooth and amazing' so far.

The couple are said to have been 'debating baby names' ahead of their first baby's arrival, with family members offering ideas.

The Mean Girls star has also reportedly decided that the little one will carry her husband's surname, because she is 'traditional' in that respect.

Mum-to-be: Lindsay Lohan reportedly, 36, wants to have 'three or four' children as this pregnancy has been 'smooth and amazing' so far

Parents-to-be: The pregnant actress is currently expecting her first child, a baby boy, with her husband Bader Shammas, 36

A source told UsWeekly: 'Her pregnancy has been smooth and amazing. As long as the baby is healthy, that's her number one priority. She definitely wants [more kids]. She has always said she wants to have three or four kids.'

The source said: 'They have been debating baby names and are keeping a list and there are family suggestions. Lindsay is traditional and it's even more exciting because she now has an even greater bond with her husband because their son will carry his last name.

'She's ready for motherhood. It's always been a dream for her. She feels being a mom will make her a better actress, businesswoman and wife.'

Lindsay and Shammas got engaged in November 2021 and it was confirmed in July last year that the couple had tied the knot.

The actress, who has lived in Dubai for the past eight years, announced in March that she was expecting her first child.

'I am the luckiest woman in the world. You found me and knew that I wanted to find happiness and grace, all at the same time,' she gushed at the time in the caption as she posed for a cute snap with Shammas.

Lindsay added: 'I am stunned that you are my husband. My life and my everything. every woman should feel like this every day.'

In March, Lindsay announced her pregnancy by sharing a photo of a white baby grow that contained black lettering that read, 'Coming soon...' In the caption, the actress wrote, 'We are blessed and excited!'

Cute: Lindsay and Shammas got engaged in November 2021 and it was confirmed in July last year that the couple had tied the knot.

At the time, the Hollywood star told the DailyMail.com: 'We are very excited for our new family member to arrive and we are looking forward to this next chapter of our lives!'

She added: 'We are beyond happy for this blessing in our lives and we cannot wait to become parents.'

The star recently told Allure Magazine: 'I can't wait to see what the feeling is and what it's like to just be a mom. Happy tears. That's just who I am.

'Though now, it's probably baby emotion. It's overwhelming in a good way.'
Amber Heard has returned to Instagram to reflect on her 'unforgettable weekend' after attending the Taormina film festival in Sicily to promote her new film.

The actress, 37, shared a photo of her beaming on stage, a year on from her contentious defamation trial with her ex-husband Johnny Depp.

It has been a difficult year for the Aquaman star, after the actor, 60, sued her for a 2018 Washington Post article she wrote about being abused, which his lawyers said was about Johnny.

The trial was highly publicised at the time and the jury reached a verdict that largely sided with Johnny, though Amber won one of her three counterclaims.

Amber's last social media post was a statement in December 2022, revealing she had made the 'very difficult decision' to reach a settlement in the case.

Comeback: Amber Heard has returned to Instagram to reflect on her 'unforgettable weekend' after attending the Taormina film festival in Sicily to promote her new film

She wrote: 'Thank you for such an incredibly warm reception at the Taormina Film festival for my latest movie In the Fire. It was an unforgettable weekend'

Grateful: Sharing a second photo of her being surrounded by fans and paparazzi she added: 'What a reception Thank you to all of my fans and supporters. I am so touched'

But it appeared that she had put the experience behind her on Saturday as she thanked her fans on Instagram.

She wrote: 'Thank you for such an incredibly warm reception at the Taormina Film festival for my latest movie In the Fire. It was an unforgettable weekend.'

Sharing a second photo of her being surrounded by fans and paparazzi she added: 'What a reception Thank you to all of my fans and supporters. I am so touched.'

In The Fire tells the story of a doctor in 1899 who is called upon to treat a disturbed young boy in Columbia, who is accused of being possessed by the Devil.

Amber told Deadline that her appearance at the festival was to 'support a movie' and nothing else.

She told the publication: 'A big thing I had to learn,(was) that Im not in control of stories other people create around me.

'Thats something that probably Ill appreciate as a blessing further down the line. Right now, I just kind of want to not have, you know, stones thrown at me so much.

'Im here to support a movie. And thats not something I can be sued for.'

She added: 'What I have been through, what Ive lived through, doesnt make my career at all. And its certainly not gonna stop my career.'

In The Fire director Conor Allyn also spoke to Deadline, saying he's 'so happy' that despite Amber going through 'something so awful', the experience 'didnt change her as a person.'

He said: 'Shes still the shining light ... and to go through something that terrible and be able to come out the other side and be whole, well, I cant imagine it.'

Trying times: It has been a difficult year for the Aquaman star, after the actor, 60, sued her for a 2018 Washington Post article she wrote about being abused, which his lawyers said was about Johnny

Supportive: In The Fire director Conor Allyn also spoke to Deadline , saying he's 'so happy' that despite Amber going through 'something so awful', the experience 'didnt change her as a person'

Plot: In The Fire tells the story of a doctor in 1899 who is called upon to treat a disturbed young boy in Columbia, who is accused of being possessed by the Devil

He also told People that Amber 'has an incredibly bright future ahead' while praising her performance in his film.

Conor said: 'I think In the Fire showcases her talents as an actor. I know this is something she is very proud of and its something we are very excited to release to the public.

'I think it will be a great opportunity for her to have something beyond the trial and stuff to talk about and to be a platform for a hell of a comeback.'

Amber's co-star Luca Calvani agreed, saying: 'Anyone that suffers that sort of ordeal and is able to overcome it with grace, no matter what side youre on, no matter what you believe or which social media [outlet] you plug into or whatever your hashtags are, you have to give credit for the incredible journey this woman has been through, and she can teach us all a couple of things as far as resilience and courage.'
Anthony Mackie has had a long and distinguished career in Hollywood in the 20-plus years since making he film debut in the semi-biographical drama 8 Mile (2002), alongside Eminem.

But even with more 60 films worth of experience since then, the 44-year-old actor found himself so nervous to work opposite Harrison Ford on Captain America: Brave New World that he couldn't remember the script ahead of their first day of shooting together.

'The first day was so intimidating. I was so f***ing nervous I couldn't remember my lines. He's Harrison f***ing Ford,' Mackie confessed of his experience on the set initially.

But he would go on to praise the Hollywood icon for helping put him at ease, in order to get the best out of everyone involved with the production, including Mackie.

'He's Harrison f***ing Ford. There is this aura about him. But he dispels that really quickly because hes such a cool guy,' Mackie revealed, as reported by Variety.

Admission: Anthony Mackie, 44 revealed that he got so nervous to work opposite of Harrison Ford on Captain America: Brave New World that he couldn't remember his lines ahead of their first day of shooting together

'He's everything a movie star should be. He would say, "Lets shoot this piece of sh*t." And everybody was like, "Yeah, lets shoot this sh*t."'

In the film, Ford plays the role of Thaddeus 'Thunderbolt' Ross, who has become President of the United States after previously serving as a U.S. Army general and then U.S. Secretary of States.

Actually, Ford is a newcomer to the Marvel Cinematic Universe, replacing the late actor William Hurt, who played Thaddeus 'Thunderbolt' Ross three times, in the wake of his death in March 2022 at the age of 71.

As for Mackie, he played the Marvel Comics character Sam Wilson/Captain America three times: Captain America: Civil War (2016), Avengers: Infinity War (2018), Avengers: Endgame (2019), this is the first time he's played the title role in a feature film.

'We spent a good bit of time together,' Mackie added. 'Ross and Cap have always had that relationship, where they were friends and they respected each other, but they always bumped heads. Thats their relationship in the storyline.'

Directed by Julius Onah from a screenplay that he co-wrote with Malcolm Spellman and Dalan Musson, the superhero film is the fourth installment in the Captain America franchise.

It's also continuation of the television miniseries The Falcon And The Winter Soldier (2021).

For the most part, plot details for Captain America 4 have largely been kept under wraps.

Movie star skills: Mackie praised Harrison Ford for helping put his anxiety at ease by brining a bit of humor to the set when they shot the first time

Familiar role: Mackie had previously played the Marvel Comics character Sam Wilson/Captain America three times: Captain America: Civil War (2016), Avengers: Infinity War (2018), Avengers: Endgame (2019)

Captain America: Brave New World, with Anthony Mackie in the lead role, is scheduled to make its premiere in theaters on May 3, 2024

Along with Mackie and Ford, Danny Ramirez, Carl Lumbly, Tim Blake Nelson, Shira Haas and Liv Tyler.

Captain America: Brave New World only just recently wrapped on the shoot in Atlanta after beginning principal photography on March 21.

Captain America: Brave New World is scheduled to make its premiere in theaters on May 3, 2024.

The film, which is 35th film in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, will be part of Phase Five of the MCU.
Tom Cruise has revealed why he never has a helmet on when he's doing his life-threatening stunts on the set of the Mission Impossible franchise.

The actor appeared on Australia's The Sunday Project this weekend and gave a very simple explanation for the risky behaviour.

'Just doesn't look cool,' the 60-year-old deadpanned to laughter from the studio audience.

'I wear helmets when I ride motorcycles, and when I'm training, and I wear pads,' he explained.

'But when you start to go film, all the pads come off. So I train in helmets, but when I'm jumping and racing high-speed bikes, then it's not cinematic.'

Tom Cruise has revealed why he never has a helmet on when he's doing his life-threatening stunts on the set of the Mission Impossible franchise. He is pictured in Sydney on Sunday

Tom went on to reveal how he pulled off cinema's riskiest stunt in Mission: Impossible  Dead Reckoning Part One, which has been described as his 'most dangerous' ever.

In the film, which is the seventh installment in the franchise, Tom pulls off a speedflying stunt, which sees him launch himself off a mountainside on a motorbike and glide down to the ground, leaving the crew 'terrified'.

Tom says he practised skydiving for the scene and had a ramp built in England so he could do a few dry runs.

He admits that he did not practise with a helicopter, which was a last-minute addition to the scene.

The actor appeared on Australia's The Sunday Project this weekend and gave a very simple explanation for the risky behaviour

'Just doesn't look cool,' the 60-year-old deadpanned. 'I wear helmets when I'm training. But when you start to go film, all the pads come off,' he explained

Tom went on to reveal how he pulled off cinema's riskiest stunt in Mission: Impossible  Dead Reckoning Part One, which has been described as his 'most dangerous' ever

Tom pulls off a speedflying stunt, which sees him launch himself off a mountainside on a motorbike and glide down to the ground, leaving the crew 'terrified'. 'I want to give everything. There's stakes. There's real stakes,' he said

'I want to give everything. To have that experience, to see that, it communicates to an audience when it's real. It's different. There's stakes. There's real stakes,' he said.

The official trailer for the upcoming Mission: Impossible installment was recently released.

The heart-stopping, high-speed clip showed plenty of action scenes with the Hollywood actor, whose film Top Gun: Maverick was a massive summer 2022 hit.

He stars alongside Pom Klementieff, Hayley Atwell and fan favourite cast member Simon Pegg.

This is Tom's seventh MI film and will be released in Australian theatres on July 8.

Returning to the sequel are Tom's usual sidekicks - veteran Hollywood names Ving Rhames, Rebecca Ferguson, and Vanessa Kirby.
Gordon, Gino and Fred: Road Trip was thrown into chaos when Gino D'Acampo quit after three series.

And Fred Sirieix believes the hit show in which he stars alongside the Gino and Gordon Ramsay is 'finished' for good.

The First Dates star, 51, admitted he would love to reunite with the pair for another trip but admits it's unlikely.

He told The Mirror 'Well, you never know... if we can get the dates together perhaps 'Road Trip' will return but we don't seem to be able to get the dates together.

'So there we go. C'est La Vie, as they say. It was good while it lasted, but it's finished and we move on. There were so many wonderful memories, it was a lot of fun.'

Over: Gordon, Gino and Fred: Road Trip was thrown into chaos when Gino D'Acampo quit after three series leading it to be axed. And Fred Sirieix believes 'Road Trip' is 'finished' for good

The revelation comes after Gino, 46, said that he was leaving the show due to a row over 'complicated' contracts.

The ITV programme saw the Italian TV favourite travel the globe with fellow foodies Gordon and Fred as they explore the local cuisine.

Gino said that his friendships with his former colleagues had nothing to do with his exit with their 'strong' bond meaning more to him than arguments over contracts.

Telling his followers on Instagram recently, he said: 'Last week I decided not to film any more Gordon, Gino and Fred Road trips. The reason is very simple  nothing to do with Gordon or Fred, the friendship is very strong.'

He continued: 'It's just because we can't get the dates together and sometimes when we do get the dates together sometimes they get changed and it causes a lot of problems for me because I have other stuff that I have to do.

'Personal problems as well because when I have to change things with my family it is very complicated and also because [of] contracts.'

Gino went on to say: 'Because contracts start to become very complicated and very stressful, I personally value the friendship with Gordon and Fred so much that I would rather the friendship than arguments with the contract.'

'So I have decided not to do it anymore because I want to be friends with the boys for many, many years ahead.'

Reunite? However, The First Dates star, 51, admitted he would love to reunite with the pair for another trip but admits it's unlikely

An ITV spokesman said: 'A brand new series of Gordon, Gino & Fred's Road Trip in Spain will be broadcast on ITV1 and ITVX later this year' - having already been filmed.

The popular show first aired in 2018 with the trio travelling France and Italy, before heading to America in 2020 followed by a trip to Greece two years later.

During promotional interviews for his new Channel 4 series, Fred's Last Resort, Sirieix told MailOnline earlier this year that the trio were busy organising the show's next series.

However, he hinted that trouble was brewing behind the scenes, noting that there was an issue trying to pin everyone down.

He said: 'Yes, we are talking about dates at the moment to go together on the next road trip. It is a bit difficult to juggle all our diaries, but we are getting there.'

Row: The revelation comes after Gino, 46, said that he was leaving the show due to a row over 'complicated' contracts

He went on to say that a hectic schedule was no bother for him, explaining: 'I'm busy that's the nice thing about my career is there are never two days the same and that's why I like it - it's very diverse.'

'I get to meet a lot of people in different settings whether it's restaurants or TV and I find it really exciting.

'I don't mind being busy, I like being busy in fact because the busier you are, the busier you get and when I'm busier I'm happy. When I'm not busy, I'm not happy.'

He then echoed the sentiments during a chat with ITV's Lorraine Kelly, saying: 'We are talking about dates for the next one. It is difficult to juggle all of our diaries.

'But we're getting there - we're getting there.'

It comes before Fred teased a surprising career change in June.

Quit: Gino told his followers on Instagram recently, 'Last week I decided not to film any more Gordon, Gino and Fred Road trips'

And The First Dates star has said he plans to make a history programme for TV which he is very excited about.

And at the time, Fred told The Sun of his new idea for a show: 'I'm reading an incredible book called Black Spartacus, about a guy called Toussaint Louverture who led the revolution in Haiti and I want to do a passion project about him.

'I think there is a series there about incredible historical figures such as himself. I think there is a very interesting kind of historical programme there to show the people, the landscape and the country of Haiti, as well of course the food.'

The star added: 'It would be very interesting. So it's very different from the kind of programme I normally do, it's more passion than anything else, but it's something I want to do.'
Cate Blanchett is on the promotional trail for her latest film, The New Boy.

The 54-year-old looked as chic as ever as she attended a screening and Q and A session for the movie on Sunday.

The Australian actress opted for a high fashion ensemble as she posed alongside the film's director Warwick Thornton and producer Kath Shelper.

Cate chose a mint suit with a blazer with black lapels and loose fit trousers in a matching tone.

She added a white dress shirt and smart tie to the outfit, as well as pointed black heels.

Cate Blanchett (right) is on the promotional trail for her latest film, The New Boy. The 54-year-old looked as chic as ever as she attended a Q and A session for the movie on Sunday

Cate highlighted her flawless features with a clean makeup look and coral lipstick while wearing her blonde locks down in loose waves.

The star appeared relaxed as she posed with her crew on the red carpet alongside the media wall.

She was recently spotted in Cannes promoting the drama, where Cate plays a nun with a rebellious streak.

A bonafide A-lister, the Tar star first rose to prominence with her star-making performance in the 1998 historical drama, Elizabeth.

The Australian actress opted for a high fashion ensemble as she posed alongside director Warwick Thornton (centre) and producer Kath Shelper (left)

Cate chose a mint suit with a blazer with black lapels and loose fit trousers in a matching tone

She added a white dress shirt and smart tie to the outfit, as well as pointed black heels

Cate's portrayal of Queen Elizabeth I was critically acclaimed  garnering her her first ever Academy Award nomination for Best Actress.

Although the Elizabeth star would go on to play Galadriel in all three Lord of the Rings films, she wouldn't win her first Academy Award until 2005.

She finally earned her first Oscar for Best Supporting Actress for her role in the 2005 film The Aviator.

The 54-year-old actress ironically won for portraying a famous American actress in The Aviator film  Katharine Hepburn.

Her first Oscar win made Cate the only actress to ever win an Academy Award for playing another actress in a film.

Cate highlighted her flawless features with a clean makeup look and coral lipstick while wearing her blonde locks down in loose waves

The star appeared relaxed as she posed with her crew on the red carpet alongside the media wall

She was recently spotted in Cannes promoting the drama

After her first Oscar, the Carol star has gone on to be nominated for an Academy Award eight times.

Offscreen, the talented global acting icon shares four children with her husband, Australian playwright Andrew Upton.

Cate and Andrew have three sons together  Dashiell, Roman, and Ignatius. They also have one daughter, Edith.

The actress's husband, who is also a screenwriter and director, popped the question to Cate in the late 1990s.

The hard-working couple officially tied the knot in December 1997.

Cate and Andrew currently reside in Crowborough, a town in East Sussex in the UK.
Genres : Crime, Drama, War

Starring : Christopher Walken, Maria Conchita Alonso

Director : James Glickenhaus

Plot Synopsis

When prisoner of war Robert McBain (Academy Award winner Christopher Walken, The Deer Hunter) is rescued in the jungles of North Vietnam by a group of Rangers, he expresses his thanks and gratitude. The leader of the Rangers, Santos (Chick Vennera), takes out a $100 bill, tears it in two, gives half to McBain and says, "If the other half of this bill ever finds you, you can pay me back."



Eighteen years later, Santos is killed in Colombia while leading a fight against drug lords and corrupt politicians. His sister, Christina (Maria Conchita Alonso, Predator 2, The Running Man) goes to New York with the other half of the bill and seeks out McBain to enlist his help in overthrowing the Colombian regime. With the surviving ex-Rangers from his Vietnam rescue, including Michael Ironside (Total Recall, Top Gun) and Steve James (The Exterminator, The Soldier), McBain's team travels to Colombia to break the power of the drug lords and avenge Santos' death.



Directed by genre favorite James Glickenhaus (The Exterminator, Shakedown, Slaughter of the Innocents), McBain delivers "a macho action fantasy spectacular mayhem that action audiences expect." (Kevin Thomas, Los Angeles Times)



Special Features:
Gemma Owen flaunted her toned legs as she donned a stunning black maxi dress from her last PrettyLittleThing collection on Sunday.

The former Love Island star, 20, wore a textured cowl neck maxi dress which synched in her figure at the waist.

Gemma looked effortlessly stylish as she took to Instagram to model her dress from her PLT collection.

She accessorised her ensemble with a gold arm cuff and a pair of strappy pointed gold heels.

The PLT ambassador also styled her chocolate brown tresses in wet loose waves for the stunning snaps.

Last collection: Gemma Owen flaunted her toned legs as she donned a stunning black maxi dress from her final Pretty Little Thing collection on Sunday

And to finish off the look, the beauty adorned a glowy makeup base consisting of a smokey eye palette and a nude lip.

The beauty captioned the stunning Instagram post with 'Sneak preview of my last edit drop with PLT LAUNCHING on Tuesday!! ad'

Fans of the Love Island star were then quick to shower Gemma with compliments over her latest look.

One fan wrote 'Its giving goddess'.

While another added 'Stunning as always'.

Gemma signed a six-figure deal with the clothing brand in August last year.

The Love Island runner-up was handpicked by the online retail giant following a series of meetings in Manchester with founder Umar Kamani, 34, and his close team.

Michael Owen's daughter Gemma was then expected at the time to become the richest Love Island contestant ever, eclipsing 2019 Islander Molly-Mae Hague, 23, by signing with the global fashion website.

Gorgeous: The former Love Island star, 20, wore a textured cowl neck maxi dress which synched in her figure at the waist

Chic: Gemma looked effortlessly stylish as she took to Instagram to model her dress from her PLT collection

Wow! She accessorised her ensemble with a gold arm cuff and a pair of strappy pointed gold heels before finishing off the look with a glowy makeup base

Gemma told MailOnline at the time: 'This really is a dream come true for me.

'I wore PrettyLittleThing throughout my time on the show and now being announced as one of their newest ambassadors alongside some incredible talent including Love Island alumni is really special.

'The team has been amazing and I'm excited to get to work and start designing some collections for you all.'

PrettyLittleThing CEO Umar Kamani said at the time: 'Gemma is the perfect person to represent the PLT consumer; she's smart, confident, ambitious and has a much loved, relatable style.

'We're very excited to have her joining the PLT family and look forward to sharing lots of exciting content, collections, and shoots with our customers.'

Gemma is the first UK brand ambassador for PrettyLittleThing since they signed Love Island 2019 runner-up Molly-Mae, who is estimated to be worth an eye-watering 6million.

Gemma was already the owner of OG Swimwear, which she launched before starring on the dating show in 2022.

The International dressage star, who has competed for Great Britain, came second in the Love Island final with Luca Bish, 23, a fishmonger from Brighton.

Ekin-Su Culculoglu and Davide Sanclimenti, both 27, who garnered 63.7 per cent of the public vote, beat them to the 50,000 cash prize.

Big deal: It comes after Gemma signed a six-figure deal with the clothing brand PrettyLittleThing in August last year
Davide Sanclimenti has revealed how his ex-girlfriend Ekin-Su Culculoglu mysteriously pulled out of posting about their break up last week.

The Love Island winner, 28, took to Instagram on Sunday afternoon to clear up some rumours, including that he 'blindsided' his ex by posting about their split.

Davide claimed that Ekin-Su was supposed to share the break-up announcement at the exact same time as him, but decided to 'pull out at the last minute'.

The Italian native didn't offer any explanation for why Ekin-Su decided not to share the statement, but revealed he 'respected her decision not to post'.

His latest statement, read: 'Posting publicly about the breakup was extremely difficult but necessary...

What's going on? Davide Sanclimenti has revealed how his ex-girlfriend Ekin-Su Culculoglu mysteriously pulled out of posting about their break up last week

Clearing things up: The Love Island winner, 28, took to Instagram on Sunday afternoon to clear up some rumours, including that he 'blindsided' his ex by posting about their split

'Despite the urge to keep it private, and contrary to what Chinese whispers are saying, I didn't blindside her as she was fully aware about my intention to post.

'At first she even agreed to post at the same time, she did change her mind last minute though.'

'I respected her decision to not post it at the same time as me, but since the relationship has been on the rocks for months and partying ways has been a long time coming, I ultimately decided to go ahead with it rather than keep on dragging a situation that became unhealthy for both of us.

'This has been the hardest thing I ever did in my life and there's no perfect way to navigate a breakup.'

Elsewhere in the post, Davide addressed claims that he felt in Ekin-Su's shadow, claiming that he was always 'by her side supporting her'.

The couple put on a united display at the Indiana Jones premiere on Monday, but within days Davide, told fans they had parted ways after 11 months of dating.

Recent reports claimed Davide felt he was in Ekin-Su's 'shadow' after she signed a number of lucrative deals with brands and blasted her for seeing their relationship as a 'money-making brand'.

'He felt swamped in the relationship, like he had totally lost his identity. He felt he was in Ekin's shadow, with no room to grow,' an insider told The Sun on Sunday.

His latest statement, read: 'Posting publicly about the breakup was extremely difficult but necessary...'

'And he felt she cared more about them as a money-making brand than as a love match.

'He had been wanting to end it for some time. Davide didn't want to move in with her as he knew it would be harder to leave.'

Davide has now appeared to address the claims in his new statement, writing: 'The constant creation of fake narratives on a person who was nothing but a genuine, caring and loving boyfriend for her and all he wanted was to enjoy and nurture the beautiful relationship they had.

'And instead we had to deal with ridiculous accusations and fake stories. This over time had a massive impact on my mental health and our relationship.'

The businessman took to Instagram on Thursday to share the sad news with his followers.

Davide wrote: 'Ekin-Su and I are no longer together. I am grateful for the memories and opportunities we shared together and I wish her nothing but the best.

'I would like for everybody to respect this decision during this difficult time. I will continue to support Ekin in anyway possible.'

Ekin-Su has yet to publicly comment on their split.

Sources have also claimed the relationship appeared to be on the rocks when Davide began partying with other women and putting himself in 'vulnerable positions'.

Ekin-Su was said to be left 'fuming and upset' in April after finding messages and pictures from two models on Davide's phone.

A source said at the time: 'It all exploded last Sunday after she found messages on Davide's phone discussing their time together.

'He had been messaging both of the girls and she suspected they had all met up one night.

'Ekin-Su contacted one of the girls to tell them she knew about things. She was furious and really upset.'

Rocky road: The couple put on a united display at the Indiana Jones premiere on Monday (pictured), but within days Davide, told fans they had parted ways

Angry: In April, Ekin-Su was said to be left 'fuming and upset' after finding messages and pictures from two models on Davide's phone

Over: The Italian hunk took to Instagram to share the sad news with his followers, just days after the couple attended the premiere of Indiana Jones And The Dial Of Destiny together

Winners: The couple were crowned series winners of Love Island in 2022, and moved in together after leaving the villa

After these allegations, it was revealed the pair had jetted off on a make-or-break trip to Amsterdam, but struggled to get their relationship back on track.

Davide is currently on holiday in Ibiza posting shirtless pictures of himself and gym videos  even hinting on a return to the Love Island villa after he captioned a post 'Guess who's coming back.'

And whilst Ekin-Su is yet to post anything on social media referencing the split, she uploaded a slew of stunning pictures to Instagram from her time away in Bodrum, Mugla.

MailOnline had reached out for comment from Davide and Ekin-Su's reps who are yet to respond.
Simon Rimmer was replaced on Sunday Brunch this weekend, days after his father Peter died aged 89.

Miquita Oliver, 39, stepped in for tragedy-hit Simon, 60, to host the Channel 4 show alongside Tim Lovejoy, 55.

The show was struck by a second crisis to deal with, when the scheduled chef pulled out at the last minute due to a 'family emergency.'

Since Greek Cypriot cook Georgina Hayden was unable to be there to whip up tasty dishes, host Tim stepped up to the plate, and created a feast using her recipes.

At the beginning of the show, Tim revealed: 'Miquita Oliver is here. As you may know, Simon [Rimmer] has stepped away from the show this week. We're sending him our love.'

Stand-in: Simon Rimmer, 60, was replaced on Sunday Brunch this weekend, days after his father Peter died aged 89. Miquita Oliver, 39, hosted the show alongside Tim Lovejoy, 55

Sad news: On Friday, Simon shared that his father Peter had died aged 89, as he posted a photograph of them together to social media

Quick change! Sunday Brunch was struck by a second crisis, when the scheduled chef, Georgina Hayden, pulled out at the last minute due to a 'family emergency'

Miquita then announced: 'Now Georgina Hayden was due to cook for Simon this week but sadly she's had a family emergency, so Tim is cooking! Shall I call you chef Tim today?'

'Chef Lovejoy,' Tim replied, while Miquita asked: 'Chef Lovejoy, what are you making?'

He explained: 'Well, it was weird cos last night I got the text going, ''Can you cook tomorrow on the show?'' [and I was like], 'Really???' Yeah I am! So I'm doing Georgina's recipes.'

'Oh right, so you're taking on quite a big chef's recipes then!' stated Miquita.

The duo were joined by Ellie Taylor, Judge Rob Rinder, actor Nick Mohammed, Bridget Christie and Olivia Dean.

On Friday, Simon shared that his father had died, posting a photograph of them together to social media and writing: 'It's with great sadness that I have to announce the death of my hero, my dad Peter.'

As Sunday Brunch aired, the TV chef updated fans on how he was processing the loss, by uploading a snap of himself with his pet pooch Cali.

He wrote alongside: 'I am overwhelmed at all the beautiful messages about my dad. We're taking it one day at a time and looking out for each other and especially my mum. A windy walk with Cali at New Brighton whilst talking to dad helped x.'

Update: As Sunday Brunch aired, the TV chef updated fans on how he was processing the loss, by uploading a snap of himself with his pet pooch Cali

Back in 2018, Simon opened up about his late father being diagnosed with cancer when he was a child.

Speaking to The Mind Map, he described his dad's health battle as his biggest life challenge so far.

He said: 'As I look back, to my childhood I remember being nine years old and my dad being diagnosed with cancer and was told he had very little chance of survival  he's now 84 and still going strong.

'I remember my dad being a very strong human being and I remember him using that when he was fighting his illness  he had the power of positivity and mental agility and that always stuck with me.'
Tim Burton and Monica Bellucci held hands on date night at Scott's in London, on Saturday.

The film director, 64, and the Italian actress, 58, put on a loved-up display while leaving a restaurant in the capital.

The outing marks the first time the loved-up couple have been seen together since confirming their romance.

Tim looked dapper, keeping things simple in a sleek all-black ensemble, comprising a tailored suit and open-collared shirt.

Monica perfectly coordinated her outfit, wearing a plunging top with her own black trouser suit, which boasted sexy side splits to show off her animal print wedges.

Cute couple alert! Tim Burton, 64, and Monica Bellucci, 58, held hands on date night at Scott's in London, on Saturday

Dapper: Tim looked dapper, keeping things simple in a sleek all-black ensemble, comprising a tailored suit and open-collared shirt

Stylish: Monica perfectly coordinated her outfit, wearing a plunging top with her own black trouser suit, which boasted sexy side splits to show off her animal print wedges

Monica could be seen wearing a gold band on her ring finger, which she has been spotted wearing on numerous occasions since 2019 as it appears to be a favourite.

They had been secretly dating for months, but Monica finally confirmed their relationship in an interview with Elle France.

The Italian actress professed her love for the filmmaker months after they were first linked.

'What I can say... I'm glad I met the man, first of all,' she said. 'It's one of those encounters that rarely happens in life... I know the man, I love him, and now I'm going to meet the director, another adventure begins.'

The model has been shooting Beetlejuice 2 with Burton in London as of late, and gushed about the filmmaker's vision.

'I love Tim,' she continued. 'And I have great respect for Tim Burton.'

Speaking of his work she said: 'I love this dream world where the monsters are kind, like we can turn our darker aspects into something bright, forgiving. Tim Burton's films talk about that a lot.'

Monica and Tim first met 16 years ago but are said to have started dating after seeing one another at the Lumiere Film Festival in Lyon in October.

News of their romance emerged in February, when Paris Match wrote that the couple 'briefly met on the steps of the Palais des Festivals in Cannes in 2006, but it was only sixteen years later, behind the scenes of another festival, that they got closer.'

Close: The couple strolled along hand-in-hand

Iconic: The talented filmmaker sported his trademarked pair of glasses

Affection: Tim held Monica's arm as they sat in the back of their chauffeur driven car

Happy: Monica smiled contentedly as she sat next to her beau following dinner in London

Stepping out together: The outing marks the first time the loved-up couple have been seen together since confirming their romance

It's love! They had been secretly dating for months, but Monica finally confirmed their relationship in an interview with Elle France just days ago

Sweet: 'It's one of those encounters that rarely happens in life... I know the man, I love him, and now I'm going to meet the director, another adventure begins,' gushed Monica

Monica, who was an honorary guest at the festival, presented Tim with the Lumiere lifetime achievement award on stage around the time they went official.

As he was handed the prize, Tim said: 'All my life put together, I have never felt so much love as tonight. Welcome to the best funeral I ever had!'

The pair were also seen heading in to watch the re-production of Silent Documentary Film, directed in 1895 by late French filmmaker Louis Lumiere.

In February, they were seen sharing a passionate kiss as they took a romantic walk on Valentine's Day.

Monica has been single since she split from artist Nicolas Lefebvre in 2019. She was previously married to Vincent Cassel from 1997-2013.

The former model met Cassel in 1996 on the set of Gilles Mimounis film lAppartement. They have two daughters, Deva, who was born in 2004, and Leonie, who entered the world in 2010.

They were together for three years before marrying in a quiet ceremony in Monaco, on the French Riviera.

Monica spoke about love in an interview with Paris Match back in 2011 when she was still married to Cassel, admitting there is 'no rationality' for her when it comes to relationships.

Former flame: Burton pictured with his former long-term partner Helena Bonham Carter in 2013

She said: 'I am carried by the moment and instinct. No rationality, only emotions. You love or you don't.'

'You don't decide sitting around a table: OK, so I have two kids, 16 years of life as a couple, that would be nice if it lasts, but how I am going to make it work?

'I don't think at all that a couple is something "you work out", as we say.'

Tim was famously in a relationship with The Crown actress Helena Bonham Carter, 57, but they sadly split in 2014.

The pair were never married, but were together for 13 years and share two children; son Billy and daughter Nell.
Love Island has become caught up in a bullying row after one of its latest contestants was accused of homophobic abuse.

Kodie Murphy has been brought into the Casa Amor villa in order to turn the heads of the girls.

But after the 20-year-old Brummie was announced to be going on the show, he was hit by a wave of accusations.

One person took to Twitter to write: 'What a way to end pride month, a boy who I went secondary school with who bullied me for being gay is put on love island.'

Someone else added: 'I second this. I've seen it happen from Kodie.'

Accusations: Love Island has become caught up in a bullying row after one of its latest contestants was accused of homophobic abuse

New bombshell: Kodie Murphy has been brought into the Casa Amor villa in order to turn the heads of the girls

MailOnline has contacted representatives for Love Island for comment.

Love Island has previously stated that it has a zero tolerance approach to offensive and abusive language.

It comes after Kodie was also branded a liar by a girlfriend ahead of his appearance on the ITV2 show.

Taking to social media he was accused of telling the beauty, who claims she was in an exclusive relationship with the hunk, that he was heading on a 'work trip' when he was actually jetting off to Majorca and the famous villa.

Sharing a snap of them together she wrote: 'As some of you may know @KodieMurphy and I have been exclusive for some time and now I've come to find out this 'work trip' he was going on was actually Casa Amor.

She continued: 'Couldn't feel more hurt and disrespected, Kodie you had plenty of time to tell me, however I hope you find what you're looking for'.

Before adding: 'I wish you luck'.

MailOnline have contacted Love Island reps for comment.

Blasted: It comes after Kodie was also branded a liar by a girlfriend ahead of his appearance on the ITV2 show

Shock: Taking to social media he was accused of telling the beauty, who claims she was in an exclusive relationship with the hunk, that he was heading on a 'work trip'

Ahead of his appearance Kodie described himself as 'flirty, cheeky and mischievous' and clearly loves to share shirtless snaps to his Instagram.

The social media marketer from Birmingham, who has his eyes on Jess Harding and Leah Taylor, regularly shares sexy shots of himself to his over 45,000 followers.

Kodie is a keen traveller, having jetted to the likes of Thailand, Vietnam, Cyprus, Mexico and Ibiza within the last 12 months.

He joined Ouzy See, Zachary Ashford, Elom Ahlijah-Wilson, Lochan Nowacki and Benjamin Noel as they entered the villa in the exciting twist.
Elizabeth Debicki looked typically chic as she left her hotel during Paris Fashion Week on Sunday.

The actress, 32, showed off her impeccable sense of style in a figure-hugging striped black and white co-ord.

The elegant number featured a structured top with flared sleeves and gold-toned buttons as well as a matching midi skirt that clung to her slender figure.

She teamed her look with a chic pair of black leather loafers and kept accessories to a minimum, opting for a simple pair of black shades and a stunning Christian Dior tote bag.

The Crown star accentuated her natural beauty with a flawless palette of makeup, including a swipe of pink lipstick.

Glam! Elizabeth Debicki looked typically chic as she left her hotel during Paris Fashion Week on Sunday

She also styled her blonde tresses in a neat elegant updo for the sunny day ahead.

Meanwhile, Elizabeth's appearance comes after she made a show-stopping entrance at the North American premiere of Guardians Of The Galaxy Vol. 3, which took place in Hollywood in April.

The actress pulled out all the stops for the event, which celebrated the new Marvel flick - in which she reprises her role of Ayesha, who is the leader of the Sovereign.

Opting for a fitting metallic silver colour scheme, the beauty donned a strapless gown with a fitting design and mesh skirt.

She let the dress do the talking by keeping extra details to a minimum, simply adding a perfectly complementing silver necklace and pumps in the same shade.

While the star, who also plays Princess Diana in Netflix's The Crown, had her bright blonde locks left to fall freely in a softly curled style.

The original installment in the Guardians of the Galaxy series was released in 2014, with the second film in the franchise subsequently released to much praise in 2017.

Elizabeth portrays Ayesha in the film, who is the leader of the Sovereign, a group of aliens who believe they are superior to other races.

Out and about: The actress, 32, showed off her impeccable sense of style in a figure-hugging striped black and white co-ord

She initially took on the role in the franchise's second film, with her return confirmed late last year.

While there was much speculation that Elizabeth would reprise the role, many worried that her filming schedule for Netflix's The Crown would restrict this.

But managing to do both, it seems the star is in high demand currently as it was recently revealed that she is amongst a new batch of actors joining a star-studded sequel to the Mia Gothstarring horror films X and Pearl.

She and Lily Collins were announced in June as part of the new cast for MaXXXine, which will be directed by Ti West, who helmed the previous two films in the series.

The new film is set to take place following the events of X, according to The Hollywood Reporter.

Following a gory massacre at a rural farm in Texas in 1979, Goth's character Maxine emerges as the sole survivor, and she then sets out west to California to pursue her dream of being a star as the 1980s roll along.
Three-time Grammy winner Olivia Rodrigo's new single Vampire about a 'fame f***er' might not be about her ex-boyfriend Adam Faze, but she certainly enjoyed the 'catharsis' of releasing her 'pent-up anger.'

'I think in my regular day-to-day life, I don't get to express those feelings of rage and dirty s*** and messing s*** up,' the 20-year-old pop star told Zane Lowe on New Music Daily on Apple Music 1 last Thursday.

'And I think in music, you have the freedom to express feelings that you don't get to express in your everyday life. And so I think maybe that's why I'm so drawn to this, because I don't get to be messy every day in daily life and work.'

Olivia reteamed with her Good 4 U and Brutal director Petra Collins to helm the Vampire music video, which includes lyrics like 'Six months of torture you sold as some forbidden paradise' and 'Went for me and not her / Cause girls your age know better.'

Rodrigo's seven-month romance with Proof of Love producer Adam Faze, 26; ended in February 2022 and her six-month fling with 27-year-old DJ/producer Zack Bia ended last August.

Three-time Grammy winner Olivia Rodrigo's new single Vampire about a 'fame f***er' might not be about her ex-boyfriend Adam Faze, but she certainly enjoyed the 'catharsis' of releasing her 'pent-up anger'

The 20-year-old pop star told Zane Lowe on New Music Daily on Apple Music 1 last Thursday: 'I think in my regular day-to-day life, I don't get to express those feelings of rage and dirty s*** and messing s*** up'

The SoCal native sang: 'You only come out at night / I used to think I was smart / But you made me look so naive / The way you sold me for parts / As you sunk your teeth into me, oh / Bloodsucker, fame f***er / Bleedin' me dry like a goddamn vampire.'

'I'm very emotional, and I think my background in child acting helps me a little bit get really emotional,' Olivia - who starred in High School Musical: The Musical - The Series - said of recording Vampire.

'And me and Dan [Nigro], my producer, we sometimes have a joke where if I'm not giving a performance that's emotional enough on the microphone, he'll literally film me, and I'll do it better just because I'm being filmed. I got a hack. So next time you need an emotional performance, just film yourself.'

Vampire is Rodrigo's 'favorite song' off her sophomore album GUTS - dropping September 8 - and she recorded a lot of it at Electric Lady Studios in Greenwich Village where 12-time Grammy winner Taylor Swift has been rerecording her albums.

'Writing this song helped me sort through lots of feelings of regret, anger, and heartache,' the half-Filipino songstress - who boasts 62.1M social media followers - wrote on Instagram.

'It's one of my favorite songs on the album and it felt very cathartic to finish. I'm so happy it's in your hands now and I hope it helps [you] deal with any bloodsuckers in your life. All my thanks [forever].'

Olivia - who just moved into an empty New York City apartment - had to force herself to ignore people's expectations about her second studio album saying her 'sole job' was to 'make music that I would like to hear on the radio, that if I found I would add that to my playlist.'

'I had it for a long time. I had it actually when I was making SOUR. I'm like, "I want the next one to be GUTS." I had it in my head. I'm like, "Four letters, all caps, just like SOUR." I love it,' Rodrigo - who scored an alleged $2M record deal with Geffen - explained.

Olivia continued: 'And I think in music, you have the freedom to express feelings that you don't get to express in your everyday life. And so I think maybe that's why I'm so drawn to this, because I don't get to be messy every day in daily life and work'

Rodrigo reteamed with her Good 4 U and Brutal director Petra Collins to helm the Vampire music video, which includes lyrics like 'Six months of torture you sold as some forbidden paradise' and 'Went for me and not her / Cause girls your age know better'

'Bloodsucker, fame f***er / Bleedin' me dry like a goddamn vampire': The SoCal native's seven-month romance with Proof of Love producer Adam Faze, 26; ended in February 2022 and her six-month fling with 27-year-old DJ/producer Zack Bia ended last August

Olivia - who starred in High School Musical: The Musical - The Series - said of recording Vampire: 'I'm very emotional, and I think my background in child acting helps me a little bit get really emotional'

Rodrigo added: 'And me and Dan [Nigro], my producer, we sometimes have a joke where if I'm not giving a performance that's emotional enough on the microphone, he'll literally film me, and I'll do it better just because I'm being filmed. I got a hack. So next time you need an emotional performance, just film yourself'

Dropping September 8! Vampire is the half-Filipino songstress' 'favorite song' off her sophomore album GUTS, and she recorded a lot of it at Electric Lady Studios in Greenwich Village where 12-time Grammy winner Taylor Swift has been rerecording her albums

Olivia - who boasts 62.1M social media followers - wrote on Instagram: 'Writing this song helped me sort through lots of feelings of regret, anger, and heartache. It's one of my favorite songs on the album and it felt very cathartic to finish. I'm so happy it's in your hands now and I hope it helps [you] deal with any bloodsuckers in your life. All my thanks [forever]'

Edward and Bella inspired? Rodrigo shared this childhood crayon collage of herself posing in front of the Twilight movie poster

The White House's Covid vaxx advocate - who just moved into an empty NYC apartment - had to force herself to ignore people's expectations about her second studio album saying her 'sole job' was to 'make music that I would like to hear on the radio, that if I found I would add that to my playlist'

'I just think it's an interesting word. People use it in so many interesting contexts, like spill your guts. Hate your guts, I think is a really interesting term. Means bravery, but it also means intuition, like listen to your gut. I just think it's all of these things that coincidentally were things that I've really been thinking about in this chapter.'

The White House's Covid vaxx advocate is 'lucky' to be in a more exalted position than when she started out as a Disney Channel star with breakout single Drivers License.

'I think that everything that happened was so quick and so life-changing, like you said, and so intense,' Olivia noted.

'And I think it wasn't until after I got off of tour where I could sit still and chill out enough to actually process everything that happened. Like, "Wow, that was really insane. That doesn't happen every day. That's pretty amazing." All the negative stuff too. And so I think it was nice to have some time to just process that for myself. And I talk about that a little bit in GUTS, the new album.'

It's unclear if Rodrigo will conclude her role as Nini Salazar-Roberts in the eight-episode fourth (and final) season of High School Musical: The Musical - The Series, which premieres August 9 on Disney+.
Dame Sheila Hancock said she is grateful to those scouring the streets of London looking for her 'most treasured possession' described as having 'huge personal importance' to her.

The British actress, 90, lost a sentimental gold chain holding four wedding rings belonging to each of her parents and her two marriages to the late John Thaw and Alec Ross.

Sharing several posts on Twitter, her official account was offering a reward for finding the necklace as the Metropolitan Police 'no longer deal with lost items'.

A statement read: 'Sheila is so grateful to everyone sharing the posts about her lost chain with the wedding rings.

'It hasn't been found yet but she sends heartfelt thanks to everyone trying to share news for her.

Devastated: Dame Sheila Hancock, 90, has lost a sentimental gold chain holding four wedding rings belonging to her parents and her two marriages to the late John Thaw and Alec Ross (pictured last month)

Gratitude: Dame Sheila said she is grateful to those scouring the streets of London looking for her 'most treasured possession' (pictured last month)

Important: The actress has described the chain and the rings as having 'huge personal importance' to her (pictured last month)

'If anyone does find it, it is of such huge personal import(ance) to her.. plse contact us.'

An earlier tweet read: 'CCTV suggests this necklace w. the 4 wedding rings was lost round Haymarket W1.

'The police no longer deal with lost items so even if someone went to hand it in there is no central system to find it.

'She is desperate to have this personal treasure back.'

Pictures of Dame Sheila with the chain around her neck were also tweeted, which said the actress is 'heartbroken to lose her most treasured possession'.

Dame Sheila, who was married to the actor John Thaw before his death in 2002, started her career in the theatre, finding success in both the West End and on Broadway.

Her career flourished with comedy performances on the BBC, with roles in sitcoms including The Rag Trade, Mr Digby Darling and Now Take My Wife.

In 1972, she landed her own series, But Seriously, It's Sheila Hancock.

Appeal: Sharing several posts on Twitter, her official account was offering a reward for finding the necklace as the Metropolitan Police 'no longer deal with lost items'

It comes after Dame Sheila said she wants to 'leave the world a happy place'.

The star is determined to remain optimistic and 'full of life' - despite the ongoing challenges facing people around the world.

Sheila told the Daily Mirror newspaper: 'It is really difficult now to be not angry, isnt it?

'I wont be here much longer realistically and I would like to leave the world a happy place, lovely and full of life.

'There are many natural disasters at the moment like those poor people caught up in the Turkey earthquake.

'And then of course the everlasting worry about the planet. It is terrifying if you read about it.'

The veteran star was outspoken about various social and political issues - including Brexit, the COVID-19 lockdown and inequality - in her memoir, Old Rage.

However, Dame Sheila is 'angrier than ever' under the current administration led by new prime minister Rishi Sunak, arguing that he doesn't appreciate the arts.

Dame Sheila said: 'How dare they cut arts funding and say children need to do more maths?

'We need culture in this country. To say maths is a priority and the arts isnt is crazy. The arts make life worth living.

Keepsake: The chain carried the gold wedding ring given to her by her late actor husband John Thaw, who she was married to from 1973 to 2002 (pictured in March 1990)

Looking back: On the chain was also her wedding ring from her first late husband Alec Ross, who she was married to from 1955 to 1971

'We are blessed with a lot of theatres in this country and it is essential for our mental and physical health. The arts means a lot now.'

The actress also slammed politician Lee Anderson for supporting the reintroduction of the death penalty.

Sheila said: 'Somebody has just been appointed by Rishi Sunak who believes we should bring back hanging.

'These are leaders who we should look up to. How can anybody say that? We hanged people who were innocent in the past.'
Jennifer Lopez kept her cool in style as she and husband Ben Affleck celebrated the long July 4th holiday weekend in New York.

The 53-year-old superstar is taking some time off from work and was pictured Sunday preparing to take off in a helicopter with her family.

Jennifer showcased her summer style wearing a black cotton maxi dress with spaghetti straps and an empire waist as she made her way across a helipad.

The Mother star styled her long highlighted locks into a loose bun.

She wore natural looking makeup with a neutral pink lip.

Stylish: Jennifer Lopez, 53, looked stylish as she arrived on a helipad in New York wearing a black cotton maxi dress with an empire waist and strappy high heeled sandals

The I'm Real artist accessorized with several stacked gold necklaces of various lengths and dark sunglasses and wore neutral toned high heel sandals.

The Hustlers star looked ready for anything, carrying a pink sweater, a Panama hat and a Dior shopping bag.

Ben, 50, looked comfortable in a loose fitting black T-shirt and straight leg jeans.

The Town star wore gray and white sneakers.

The couple were accompanied by some of their kids including Sam, 11, looking comfortable in blue joggers and sneakers along with a black hoodie.

Violet, 17, wore a white medical mask, and stepped out in a floral skirt and a navy blue tank top.

The high schooler wore a cream sweater and multi-colored sneakers.

Ben shares his children, including daughter Seraphina, 14, with his ex-wife Jennifer Garner, 51.

Emme, 15, who kept it casual in a gray T-shirt, denim shorts and sneakers.

Casual: Ben Affleck, 50, looked comfortable in a black T-shirt and jeans with gray and white sneakers. The Town actor was followed by kids, Violet, 17, and Sam, 11

Break: JLo's child, Emme, 15, looked comfortable in a gray T-shirt and denim shorts. The family trip appears to be a nice break for the couple. Both she and Ben have several projects underway

JLo shares Emme and twin Max, with her ex-husband, Marc Anthony.

After the success of her action film The Mother on Netflix, fans can look forward to seeing her in the upcoming Atlas.

The sci-fi adventure about an AI soldier who believes the only way to end war is to end humanity is expected to debut on the streaming service later this year or in early 2024.

Ben can currently be seen as Bruce Wayne/Batman in The Flash.

He will reprise the role as the superhero again in the upcoming Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom.

The fantasy adventure is expected to hit the big screen December 20.
Amazon founder Jeff Bezos was spotted waving to a group of tourists from the deck of his $500million superyacht as he partied with his fiancee Lauren Sanchez and a group of women off the coast of Italy.

The billionaire, 59, has been enjoying something of a Euro trip on his mega-yacht Koru - which means 'new beginnings' in Maori - since the middle of May with Sanchez, making stops in a number of resort towns in Spain, France, and Italy.

In exclusive footage obtained by MailOnline, a group of excited revellers on a nearby boat can be heard screaming as they realise that they are sailing past the $500million yacht (393m) - which even has a sculpture of Sanchez, 53, on the bow.

Bezos, standing on the yacht's deck in a black shirt and cream trousers, and six women can be seen waving back at the group who serenade him and his Emmy-Award winning fiancee with screams of 'We love you'.

The 127-metre-long superyacht was spotted off the coast of Sardinia on June 23 and was followed by a large supporter vessel that had a speed boat and helicopter on it.

Amazon founder Jeff Bezos (pictured) has been spotted partying with his fiancee Lauren Sanchez and a group of women on his huge superyacht off the coast of Italy

The footage was filmed by a group on a nearby boat who excitedly waved and screamed at Bezos, Sanchez and the women

Bezos (right) can be seen waving and dancing as he continues his long holiday with Sanchez on the $500m super yacht

At 230ft tall, Koru (pictured) currently holds the record for being the world's tallest superyacht

The engaged couple have been pictured several times during their luxurious cruise on the yacht which was built in 2021.

At 230ft tall, it currently holds the record for being the world's tallest superyacht.

It's possible the couple has been celebrating as DailyMail.com reported in May that Bezos had popped the question to Sanchez after four-years of dating.

Just days ago, news anchor Sanchez was spotted having a go at landing a helicopter on the luxury yacht's support vessel, Abeona, in Sardinia.

Photographs captured the journalist repeatedly attempting to touch down on the billionaire's vessel as they opted to take in the sights by air for a change.

The newly-engaged couple were also spotted walking hand in hand on the sand having lunch with friends at Nikki Beach - a trendy beachfront property on the bay of Cala Petra Ruja that is only accessible by private yacht.

The couple's helicopter trip came after Sanchez showed off her toned physique in a make-up free bikini post on Instagram with the caption: 'Unfiltered summer...'.

In the background of her racy selfie, a small portion of her fiance's mega yacht was shown.

The lovebirds have been traveling on the mega-yacht Koru for the past month, with Lauren, 53, and the Amazon founder, 59, taking in the sights in a variety of European locations

Lauren Sanchez showed off her toned physique in a bikini as she and Jeff Bezos soak up the sun in his $500,000,000 super yacht

Billionaire mogul Jeff Bezos and fiancee Lauren Sanchez were spotted on a helicopter in Italy last month by DailyMail.com

The couple deplaned on the heli-pad located at the top of the yacht

It's possible the couple has been celebrating as DailyMail.com reported in May that Bezos had popped the question to Sanchez after four years of dating

Jeff Bezos and his fiancee, Lauren Sanchez, were spotted in Sardinia, Italy, on a date last month

Bezos and Sanchez had lunch at Nikki Beach, a trendy beachfront property on the bay of Cala Petra Ruja in Sardinia

The couple have spent more than a month vacationing in the Mediterranean.

They were first seen on the deck of the floating mansion on May 18 after flying into Europe on a private jet.

Bezos and Sanchez were previously joined by Sanchez's two teenage children, whom she shares with her ex-husband, Patrick Whitesell.

Meanwhile, they also spent a weekend hanging out with surfer Laird Hamilton in St. Tropez.

As Bezos laps up his lavish holiday with his girlfriend, back home it is business as usual for the Amazon chief executive.

The couple (pictured together) have spent more than a month vacationing in the Mediterranean

The billionaire and Leonardo DiCaprio are now part of the effort to protect the vital areas of the Amazon rainforest through the Protect Our Planet Challenge.

Between DiCaprio's Re:Wild conservation and Bezos's Nature Solutions, the two non-profits are putting $200 million into the POP Challenge that will 'support the expansion and management of Brazil's protected areas and Indigenous territories,' according to Variety.

The hefty donation will be used over the next four years to help Brazil achieve zero deforestation in the Amazon and accelerate the South American country's transition to a sustainable and green economy.
Genres : Crime, Drama, Thriller

Starring : Zar Amir-Ebrahimi, Mehdi Bajestani, Arash Ashtiani

Director : Ali Abbasi

Plot Synopsis

NOMINATED FOR THE PALME D'OR AT THE 2022 CANNES FILM FESTIVAL!

Female journalist Arezoo Rahimi (Zar Amir-Ebrahimi, White Paradise) travels to the Iranian holy city of Mashhad to investigate a serial killer targeting sex workers. As she draws closer to exposing his crimes, the opportunity for justice grows harder to attain when the murderer is embraced by many as a hero. Based on the true story of the 'Spider Killer' Saeed Hanaei (Mehdi Bajestani, 'Whisper"), who saw himself as on a mission from God as he killed 16 women between 2000 and 2001.

Nominated for the Palme d'Or at the 2022 Cannes Film Festival (and winner at Cannes for Best Actress, Zar Amir-Ebrahimi), "Holy Spider" was selected as the Danish entry for Best International Feature Film at the 95th Academy Awards (and made the December shortlist) in this "riveting, true-crime serial killer thriller." (Tom Meek, Cambridge Day).

SPECIAL FEATURES:
Brad Pitt looked youthful as he was pictured filming a commercial for an Italian appliance brand De'Longhi in France on Sunday.

The actor, 59, was pictured working on the ad for De'Longhi at a vineyard in the Var region in the French Riviera on Saturday, amid his ongoing business relationship with the brand, which manufactures luxury coffee and espresso machines.

The Oscar-winner donned an all-white ensemble as he filmed opposite actress Karina Beuthe for the Treviso, Italy-based company.

Pitt, who played the titular character in 2008's The Curious Case of Benjamin Button - about a man who ages in reverse - wore a button-up collared shirt with off-white slacks and white loafers.

The Fight Club actor donned a pair of brown frame sunglasses and a gold watch as he had his dark brown locks combed to the side on the summer day.

The latest: Brad Pitt, 59, looked youthful as he was pictured filming a commercial for an Italian appliance brand Sunday

The Oscar-winner donned an all-white ensemble as he filmed opposite actress Karina Beuthe for the commercial

Pitt seemed to be in good spirits as as he smiled and chat with crew members on the set of the commercial.

Pitt had the charm turned on as cameras rolled on the spot, as he was seen holding the hand of Beuthe, 53.

The actress, who has worked on a number of international productions, donned a white top and plum colored slacks amid production in the scenic French winery.

The Once Upon a Time in Hollywood star is no stranger to wineries: He and ex-wife Angelina Jolie in 2008 bought the French winery Chateau Miraval, and it has remained a point of contention as they remain hashing out the aftermath of their 2016 split.

Pitt has had a long-running working relationship with De'Longhi: In 2021, he was named the global ambassador for the brand, as Pitt said he's partial to not only the company, but its product and its approach to marketing.

'I wanted to work with De'Longhi because I appreciated their approach for the campaign - they have confidence in their product and want to celebrate the artistry of their Italian heritage without overdoing it,' Pitt told People in September of 2021.

He praised 'the elegance, design and harmony that the brand naturally embodies,' as well as the engineering involved.

Pitt wore a button-up collared shirt with off-white slacks and white shoes

The Fight Club actor donned a pair of brown frame sunglasses and a gold watch as he had his dark brown locks combed to the side on the summer day

Pitt had the charm turned on as cameras rolled on the spot, as he was seen holding the hand of Beuthe, 53

Pitt seemed to be in good spirits as as he smiled and chat with crew members on the set of the commercial

The Academy Award-winning star kept cool with a bottled water on the summer day in France

The Once Upon a Time in Hollywood star is no stranger to wineries: He and ex-wife Angelina Jolie in 2008 bought the French winery Chateau Miraval

The winery has remained a point of contention as he and Jolie remain hashing out the aftermath of their 2016 split

Beuthe, who has worked on a number of international productions, donned a white top and plum colored slacks amid production in the scenic French winery

Pitt has had a long-running working relationship with De'Longhi, which manufactures luxury coffee and espresso machines

In 2021, he was named the global ambassador for the brand, as Pitt said he's partial to not only the company, but its product and its approach to marketing

Pitt said of the appliance brand, 'De'Longhi's attention to detail makes me appreciate the brand even more'

He told the publication: 'De'Longhi's attention to detail makes me appreciate the brand even more. That sort of thoughtfulness is a distinctive value of Italian design - how you design something for the people who are going to experience it.'

Pitt noted that 'certain details that might not be immediately obvious, but in the end have a profound effect on you and your life.'

Pitt said the company's state-of-the-art products have led him to take it slower with his usual coffee routine.

'The European, specifically Italian idea about creating a sort of ceremony associated with coffee,' he said. 'I like that idea of sitting down on my couch and really enjoying my cup of coffee.'

He told the outlet, 'To me coffee is not just a drink. It creates connections, it allows you to carve a moment for yourself; to pause and enjoy the moment.'

Pitt said that he found 'this ability to stop, appreciate the moment and life in general - to be typically European and to me - truly inspiring.'

Pitt was at the center of activity as cameramen, photographers and crew worked

He was seen in a lighthearted exchange with Beuthe during filming of the ad

Pitt said the company's state-of-the-art products have led him to take it slower with his usual coffee routine, and take his time getting caffeinated

He said, 'To me coffee is not just a drink. It creates connections, it allows you to carve a moment for yourself; to pause and enjoy the moment'

Pitt was seen sharing a hug with Beuthe on the set of the commercial for De'Longhi

In addition to his efforts promoting De'Longhi, Pitt has a number of projects he's working on as summer season commences

He's working alongside his Ocean's 11 costar George Clooney on the Jon Watts-directed thriller Wolfs, and is also linked to a project with director Joseph Kosinski about Formula One

Pitt appears to be aging well, as his appearance remains youthful. He was seen in the 2001 movie Ocean's Eleven

Pitt played the titular character in 2008's The Curious Case of Benjamin Button, about a man who ages in reverse

In 2009, he was nominated for Best Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role in the David Fincher-directed motion picture

In addition to his efforts promoting De'Longhi, Pitt has a number of projects he's working on as summer season commences, according to his iMDb page.

He's working alongside his Ocean's 11 costar George Clooney on the Jon Watts-directed thriller Wolfs, and is also linked to a project with director Joseph Kosinski about Formula One. He's a producer on both projects as well.

He is also linked to producing a number of other projects in various stages of development, including the TV series 3 Body Problem, a horror film titled Black Hole; and a thriller titled The Tiger starring Alexander Skarsgard.
They've been loved-up for 40 years.

And Goldie Hawn and her long-term love Kurt Russel appeared in great spirits as they bumped into a friend while arriving at the Chiltern Firehouse on Saturday.

The Snatched actress, 77, donned a casual ensemble for the outing but still looked incredibly chic.

She opted for a black top with long sleeves and cut-out shoulder details, teamed with a pair of matching black leggings.

The American star kept it comfortable in a pair of trainers, and carried the essentials in a print tote handbag.

Loved-up: Goldie Hawn and her long-term love Kurt Russel appeared in great spirits as they bumped into a friend while arriving at the Chiltern Firehouse on Saturday

Ageless: The Snatched actress, 77, donned a casual ensemble for the outing but still looked incredibly chic

The Cactus Flower sensation sported a gleaming necklace with a blue rhinestone, and wore her blonde tresses styled in a flawless blow-dry.

Meanwhile Kurt, 72, also donned a casual look with a colourful print short-sleeve shirt and wore a blue tee underneath.

He teamed the look with a pair of denim and brown leather shoes.

The Thing actor sported his trademark glasses with yellow-tinted lenses, as he looked in great spirits.

The loved-up couple was captured bumping into a friend while arriving at the Chiltern Firehouse in London.

The pair appeared over the moon to meet their pal, as they were seen hugging each other and mingling together in an animated display.

They just enjoyed a sun-soaked getaway in Greece earlier last month.

The couple enjoyed a speedboat ride together, with Goldie looking absolutely incredible in a black swimsuit.

Ensemble: She opted for a black top with long sleeves and cut-out shoulder details, teamed with a pair of matching black leggings

Stylish: The Cactus Flower sensation sported a gleaming necklace with a blue rhinestone, and wore her blonde tresses styled in a flawless blow-dry

Look: Meanwhile Kurt, 72, also donned a casual look with a colourful print short-sleeve shirt and wore a blue tee underneath

Appearance: The loved-up couple was captured bumping into a friend while arriving at the Chiltern Firehouse in London

Friends: The pair appeared over the moon to meet their pal, as they were seen hugging each other and mingling together in an animated display

Goldie and Russell initially met while working on The One and Only, Genuine, Original Family Band, which was released in 1968.

The actress was previously married to Gus Trikonis, and their marriage lasted from 1969 until 1976.

The Foul Play star moved on and eventually tied the knot with Bill Hudson that same year.

The former couple went on to welcome a son named Oliver, 46, as well as their daughter Kate, 43, during the course of their marriage, which ended in 1982.

Russell was also formerly married to Season Hubley from 1979 until 1983.

Goldie and her longtime partner reconnected on the set of 1984's Swing Shift, in which they costarred.

The two began a relationship and brought a son named Wyatt, 36, into their lives in 1986, and they costarred in Overboard, which premiered the following year.

The pair have remained selective about appearing alongside each other since then, although they did portray Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus in 2018's The Christmas Chronicles, as well as its 2020 sequel.

Hawn and Russell opened up about their relationship during an interview with People, where the latter expressed that he and his partner did not feel the need to formalize their relationship.

'For people like us, the marriage certificate wasn't going to create anything that otherwise we wouldn't have,' he said.

Happy couple! The two began a relationship and brought a son named Wyatt, 36, into their lives in 1986, and they costarred in Overboard, which premiered the following year

The actress also stated that she was not interested in tying the knot, as she still felt strongly connected to her partner.

'It's not about the marriage. It's about the people and the relationship, and the will to stay together,' she said.

Hawn concluded by remarking that she and Russell felt immensely grateful for the family that they had raised.

'That feeling of gratitude is important, because it's good for your brain and your heart and your health. It's a good thing to pass on,' she said.
Karen Allen has opened up about finally saying goodbye to Indy and Marion in the final instalment of Indiana Jones - Dial of Destiny.

The actress, 71, - who plays Indy's love interest and wife Marion Ravenwood - revealed there was an 'initial disappointment' for not being a bigger part of the adventure, but she is also grateful to 'come back into the story'.

Following the tumultuous adventures of the couple in the franchise - from exes who rekindle in the 1981's Raiders, to a secret son in 2008's in the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull - their feelings resonate in the latest film more than ever.

The fifth and last instalment of the iconic franchise begins with Indy and Marion getting a divorce after it was revealed their son Mutt Williams - played by Shia LaBeouf - died in the Vietnam War.

The pair's son - whom Marion gave birth secretly from Indy - enlisted against their willing, and grief ended up consuming their marriage.

Coming to an end: Karen Allen has opened up about finally saying goodbye to Indy and Marion in the final instalment of Indiana Jones: Dial of Destiny, in an interview for EW

Role: The actress, 71, - who plays Indy's love interest and wife Marion Ravenwood - revealed there was an 'initial disappointment' at not being a bigger part of the adventure (pictured in Raiders of The Lost Ark in 1981)

For this reason, we don't really see Marion participating in the story's plot until the final moments.

'She's such a vibrant, wonderful character, and it would've broken my heart to see her just vanish into the ether,' the actress told EW.

The star appeared to be in real awe of her character, as she branded Marion 'delightful' and said: 'From the moment we meet her, she's drinking 400-pound men under the table and socking an ex-boyfriend in the chin. Right there she wins the heart of everyone who's ever been jilted, certainly.'

The Starman actress said her and co-star Harrison Ford worked together 'wonderfully' and revealed she has learned a lot from him as she got to watch him 'working with the camera' in a movie like this.

'I learned a lot just watching Harrison. There's a much more practical, methodical way that you work sometimes, that was new to me,' said Karen.

The star explained that while the fourth instalment felt like 'an old friend' where they reconnected characters, the last one felt more 'short but sweet' as it was 'very brief'.

Despite this, the actress admitted she was happy to see the favourite couple had a chance to adjust and have a happy ending.

Karen revealed the directorial shift from Steven Spielberg - who directed the previous instalments - to James Mangold, meant she had no idea anymore if she was going to be part of the franchise anymore, as it was a 'fresh start'.

Karen said: 'From the moment we meet her, she's drinking 400-pound men under the table and socking an ex-boyfriend in the chin. Right there she wins the heart of everyone who's ever been jilted, certainly'

Co-stars: The Starman actress said her and co-star and leading man Harrison Ford worked together 'wonderfully' (pictured in Raiders of The Lost Ark in 1981)

Nostalgic: The Colewell actress also said she doesn't feel like she is truly saying goodbye to Marion, as the character will always be part of her life

With script writers also changed, the actress said she received the script to read only when it was finished.

Indiana Jones and The Dial of Destiny is the fifth and final film of the beloved franchise created by legendary director George Lucas.

The latest movie hit is set in the year 1969, following Harrison's Indiana Jones set against the backdrop of the American 'space race.'

Jones is said to be, 'uneasy' about the American government enlisting former Nazis in their race to beat the Russians to the moon.

Franchise newcomer Phoebe Waller Bridge joins the sequel as the globe-trotting archaeologist's goddaughter Helena Shaw, along with Mads Mikkelsen as villain Jurgen Voller, an ex-Nazi who now works for NASA, and Toby Jones as Basil Shaw, an ally of Jones.

Other newcomers include Antonio Banderas as Renaldo, a friend of Indy, Thomas Kretschmann as Colonel Weber, Toby Jones as Basil Shaw and Boyd Holbrook as Klaber.

It first premiered at the recent Cannes Film Festival and has a reported budget of $300million.
Margot Robbie looked incredible in two stylish pink outfits as she attended the premiere of Barbie in Seoul, South Korea on Sunday.

The actress, 32, put on a glamorous display in a plunging pink shimmering midi dress, with a belt that cinched in her waist.

The gown featured a mesh skirt and she completed the ensemble with a pair of matching heels.

Margot then slipped into a hot pink blazer and matching midi skirt, teamed with a neck tie and white fedora.

She opted for a flawless blush makeup look with a swipe of nude lipstick while flashed her dazzling white smile.

Gorgeous: Margot Robbie looked incredible in two stylish pink outfits as she attended the premiere of Barbie in Seoul, South Korea on Sunday

Glam: The actress, 32, put on a glamorous display in a plunging pink shimmering midi dress, with a belt that cinched in her waist

Stylish: The gown featured a mesh skirt and she completed the ensemble with a pair of matching heels

Margot's golden locks were styled in loose curls while she posed up a storm on the pink carpet.

It comes after Margot arrived in Sydney on Wednesday with her husband Tom Ackerley to promote her starring role in Barbie.

The actress has since revealed the secret behind her famous arched foot in the new film.

In the trailer for the highly anticipated comedy fantasy, Margot is seen stepping out of her high heels to reveal Barbie's feet remain arched, just like the toy.

On Thursday night's episode of Australian chat show The Project, the actress revealed very little went into getting the shot right.

'There's no special effects, you'd be amazed how few [special effects] there are in this film actually,' she said alongside director Greta Gerwig.

Margot explained it's her own feet in the frame, and she achieved the shot by stepping out of her heels and simply 'held on to a bar' so she was 'sturdy'.

'We did put double-sided tape on the floor so that my shoes stayed still,' she added, before revealing she also had a pedicure prior to filming the scene.

AirBnB announced on Monday that the DreamHouse in Malibu will be available for fans to book two free one-night stays for two guests apiece on July 21 and July 22.

The stays will be free of charge because, according to an Airbnb press release, 'because Ken couldn't figure out how to put a price on Barbie's Malibu DreamHouse.'

Fans can start to request a room at the DreamHouse on Monday, July 17 at 10 AM PT at AirBNB.com/KensDreamHouse.

The DreamHouse is located in Malibu, California, an oceanfront mansion that, 'features panoramic views and serves as the perfect backdrop for Ken's picture-plastic paradise.'

According to Vulture, the film is 'a fish-out-of-water story about a doll who is ousted from toy society for not being perfect enough.'

Another synopsis on IMDB of the movie reads: 'A doll living in 'Barbieland' is expelled for not being perfect enough and sets off on an adventure in the real world. A Live-action feature film based on the popular line of Barbie toys.'

Oscar nominee Ryan Gosling is starring opposite Margot as he takes on the role of Barbie's boyfriend Ken.

Stunning: Margot then slipped into a hot pink blazer and matching midi skirt, teamed with a neck tie and white fedora

Chic: She strut into the premiere in a pair of white and pink heels

Beaming: She opted for a flawless blush makeup look with a swipe of nude lipstick while flashed her dazzling white smile

Fun: The beauty posed with props such as a sparkling pink telephone

Sweet: She was then spotted taking selfie's with her adoring fans

Plot: According to Vulture, the film is 'a fish-out-of-water story about a doll who is ousted from toy society for not being perfect enough.'

Another synopsis on IMDB of the movie reads: 'A doll living in 'Barbieland' is expelled for not being perfect enough and sets off on an adventure in the real world. A Live-action feature film based on the popular line of Barbie toys.'

Will Ferrell is playing the CEO of the toy company that may or may not be Mattel.

Little Women and Ladybird filmmaker Greta Gerwig directed the project, and wrote the script for the film with her longtime partner Noah Baumbach.

Other members of the cast include Kate McKinnon, Michael Cera, Emma Mackey, Kingsley Ben-Adir, America Ferrera, Rhea Perlman, Ariana Greenblatt, Ana Cruz Kayne, Alexandra Shipp, Ritu Arya, Sharon Rooney, Connor Swindells, Scott Evans and Jamie Demetriou.

Barbie goes on general release from July 21.
Sophie Habboo and new husband Jamie Laing looked smitten as they attended the wedding of Sophie's sister Georgia and her husband Thomas Berry at Chelsea Townhall months after their own nuptials.

The former Made In Chelsea star, 29, received a sweet kiss on the cheek from Jamie, 34, as they left the ceremony.

Sophie looked elegant in a figure-hugging lilac gown, while elevating her height in a pair of zebra print heels.

She opted for a bronzed makeup palette which accentuated her natural features underneath a pair of stylish shades.

Meanwhile, Jamie cut a dapper figure in a black suit with a matching tie and sunglasses.

Happy couple: Sophie Habboo and new husband Jamie Laing looked smitten as they attended the wedding of Sophie's sister Georgia and her husband Thomas Berry at Chelsea Townhall months after their own nuptials

Smitten: The former Made In Chelsea star, 29, received a sweet kiss on the cheek from Jamie, 34, as they left the ceremony

Sweet: Georgia and new husband Thomas put on a loved-up display as they shared their first kiss outside the Townhall

Georgia and new husband Thomas put on a loved-up display as they shared their first kiss outside the Townhall.

The bride looked stunning in an elegant white satin gown with a simple veil and strappy heels.

Newlyweds Sophie and Jamie said 'I do' at the Chelsea registry office in April and later tied the knot again in a grand ceremony for a second time in Spain in late May .

Sophie and Jamie's relationship was well-documented throughout their time on Made In Chelsea.

The pair's close friendship slowly turned to romance in mid-2019, but they were both initially hesitant to start dating in case it ruined what they had.

The couple were previously best friends, before their friendship turned to romance on Made In Chelsea and they started dating four years ago.

Jamie popped the question during a romantic proposal at London's Rosewood Hotel in December 2021.

After their picture-perfect wedding, the couple's honeymoon didn't get off to the best of starts, with the pair beset by flight delays, cancellations and lost luggage.

The couple's first holiday spot in Panama caused a lot of grief following a nightmare 24-hour journey.

Stylish: Sophie looked elegant in a figure-hugging lilac gown, while elevating her height in a pair of zebra print heels

Beauty: She opted for a bronzed makeup palette which accentuated her natural features underneath a pair of stylish shades

Looking good: Jamie cut a dapper figure in a black suit with a matching tie and sunglasses

Beaming: Sophie appeared in great spirits as she prepared to watch her sister get married

Beautiful: The bride looked stunning in an elegant white satin gown with a simple veil and strappy heels

Family: The couple opted for a smaller wedding ceremony just months after Sophie and Jamie's nuptials

Smart: Thomas looked handsome in a dapper black suit for his big day

Their nightmare honeymoon went from bad to worse after the visit to four different countries in one day as Jamie had his luggage lost while jetting from country to country.

The disaster continued as their belongings had been sent back to their home in London rather than on to meet them in Panama.

After spending the first few days of their honeymoon without any belongings earlier this month, Jamie gave fans an update on their dire situation - revealing he was forced to wear only his underwear before borrowing hotel staff's clothes.

He then announced to his Instagram followers their bags had been found.

However, all was not well as their belongings had been sent back to their home in London rather than on to meet them in Panama.

Jamie and Sophie then jetted to the Dominican Republic for the second part of the two-week honeymoon.

left little to the imagination as he posed completely in the nude on a rose petal-adorned bed in a cheeky Instagram snap on Monday.

The reality star teased followers as he faced body-down, revealing his peachy behind.

Dare to bare: Jamie left little to the imagination as he posed completely in the nude on a rose petal-adorned bed in a cheeky Instagram snap on Monday

Fun in the sun: After their picture-perfect wedding, the couple's honeymoon didn't get off to the best of starts, with the pair beset by flight delays, cancellations and lost luggage

Jamie even went as far as to place a delicate flower at the bottom of his back.

As he spread across the hotel room bed, Jamie placed his hands under his head and smiled cheekily at the camera.

In front of him, flower petals in the shape of 'I love you' were intricately placed.

Jamie wrote: 'It's a New Day, it's a new week. Forget about what happened yesterday, Happy Monday.'
Agroforestry not only improves the ecology of the agricultural domain but can salvage the economic and social condition of farmers

Agroforestry in simple terms is a "sustainable land-use management system that combines the cultivation of food crops (annuals) with woody perennials (such as trees, shrubs, palms, bamboo etc.) and/or livestock on the same land-management units.

The path to the introduction of agroforestry was in fact paved by the Forest Policy itself when it declared that the communitys requirement, not possible to be provided through the recorded rights and concessions on the forests, should be met by social forestry outside the reserved forests. The diversion of good and productive agricultural lands to forestry was discouraged highlighting the need for increased food production, it simultaneously emphasized that forests should not be looked upon as a source of revenue. It rather professed to encourage farmers, particularly small and marginal ones, to grow on their marginal/degraded lands wood species required for industries. The policy further advocated that the farmers be supported by forest-based industries with inputs including credit, constant technical advice, harvesting and transport services, and even by the adequate strengthening of the research base for better outputs.

The forest policy declared that the derivation of direct economic benefit from forest must be subordinated to the need for environmental stability and maintenance of ecological balance, an overriding imperative for the sustenance of ecosystem services that support crop production and humanity. The overall attempt was towards strengthening agricultural systems along with appropriate diversification to meet the growing needs and expectations of the country and its economy. Forest, the foster mother of agriculture, had to play its role in a subtle but definite way.

Indias Agroforestry Policy 2014 acknowledges that agroforestry is the only alternative to meeting the target of increasing forest or tree cover to 33 per cent of its geographical area, as envisaged in the National Forest Policy 1988. It describes agroforestry as an ecologically based natural resource management system that sustains production and has the potential to improve ecosystem services through carbon storage, reduction in damage to forests, conservation of biodiversity, and soil and water conservation enabling agricultural land to withstand extreme weather events like floods and droughts, and climate change. The emphasis on Agroforestry perhaps also came as a response to the statement in National Agriculture Policy 2000 which said, "Agriculture has become a relatively unrewarding profession." It stressed, "Farmers will be encouraged to take up farm/agro forestry".

The field situation, however, shows that economic considerations have pushed agriculture in a big way towards industrial agriculture which, in its present exploitative form, is robbing the future generations of their entitlement to resources that they are not here to defend. Intensive sugarcane cultivation dependent on water mining in the Marathwada region of Maharashtra is a case in point. Agroforestry is conspicuously different from this. As a land use system with long-term sustainability and relatively lower risks, its true potential of providing unyielding support to the economy and well-being of our farmers is yet to be realized. The operationalization of site-specific treatment models; duly developed using local species combinations within the broadly conceptualized agri-Silvi, agri-horti, and agri-silvi-pasture systems in combination with animal husbandry; remains to be firmly institutionalized.

The Agroforestry policy outlined several obstacles that plagued agroforestry in the country. Some of these have been attempted to be addressed but a lot has still to be done. Some of the learnings from the field may help in taking future action on various aspects.

On the regulatory framework aspect, while the Policy recommended the creation of simple mechanisms/procedures to regulate the harvesting and transit of agroforestry produce, the Tree Felling Regulation Acts in many states have been amended to exempt species mostly grown on private lands. Interestingly, as per the India State of Forest Report 2021 by the Forest Survey of India, the tree cover outside the recorded forest area is a significant contributor (721 sq. km) to the increase of 2,261 sq. km of total forest and tree cover in the country. The impact of generously removing Bamboo from the definition of the tree under the Indian Forest Act 1927 just with the objective of deregulating the transit of farm-grown bamboo, however, provides a lesson. The result is the decriminalization of bamboo felling even in the Reserved Forest areas and a loss of 10,594 sq. km of bamboo-bearing area in the country as per this report. Further, there are reports from Maharashtra where farm-grown farm-grown bamboo is difficult to sell because of the easy availability of bamboo from forests on account of unregulated removals in the name of community forest rights under the Forest Rights Act 2006. Needless to say, prior to legal interventions all possible implications on the ground must be assessed.

Better and farmer-friendly institutional credit and insurance are a must for promoting agroforestry. The major issue of non-participation of small farmers needs optimization of farm productivity coupled with the creation of a mix of livelihood opportunities and mechanisms to address gestation and market access-related issues. The prevailing perception of high-output monoculture systems must be replaced by multiple-produce-based sustainable options provided by agroforestry. Over 30 research centres of the ICAR involved in agroforestry research, with the adoption of the latest technologies, have a crucial role to play in this regard apart from the extension wing of the agriculture department.

To raise agroforestry taken up by small farmers at economies of scale, the pathbreaking example created in villages of Palamau district of Jharkhand using Chakriya Vikas Yojana to aggregate the farm-related interests of farmers (including that of absentee landlords) in a transparent manner is certainly replicable. In many areas, support can be got from industries including Ayurvedic Drug Manufactures for the supply of inputs, buying back of outputs and marketing. Certification of farm-grown produce and a pro-actively functional canalizing agency at export points will go a long way in providing better markets to the practitioners of agroforestry. The returns can also be augmented by connecting agroforestry initiatives with REDD+.

India has taken a great step by notifying the draft Green Credit Programme Implementation Rules, 2023. The concept of the Green Credit Programme in the country has identified activities for increasing the green cover as eligible for credit by naming it Tree Plantation-based Green Credit. In addition, all entities registered for Accredited Compensatory Afforestation as per MoEFCC guidelines, are registered with the Green Credit Registry under the Programme. This should give a boost to tree plantations under agroforestry. Needless to say, maintaining fungibility across the eight sectors identified for the programme is going to be extremely essential for sustaining the programme.

Agroforestry has a tremendous potential of not only salvaging the economic and social condition of farmers but also promises to improve the ecology of the agricultural domain making it sustainable and climate change resilient. The most crucial points, however, especially while promoting and dealing with agroforestry models adopted by farmers will be to ensure integrity, and transparency so that real benefits for local communities and biodiversity are guaranteed. Agroforestry in simple terms is a "sustainable land-use management system that combines the cultivation of food crops (annuals) with woody perennials (such as trees, shrubs, palms, bamboo etc.) and/or livestock on the same land-management units.

The path to the introduction of agroforestry was in fact paved by the Forest Policy itself when it declared that the communitys requirement, not possible to be provided through the recorded rights and concessions on the forests, should be met by social forestry outside the reserved forests. The diversion of good and productive agricultural lands to forestry was discouraged highlighting the need for increased food production, it simultaneously emphasized that forests should not be looked upon as a source of revenue. It rather professed to encourage farmers, particularly small and marginal ones, to grow on their marginal/degraded lands wood species required for industries. The policy further advocated that the farmers be supported by forest-based industries with inputs including credit, constant technical advice, harvesting and transport services, and even by the adequate strengthening of the research base for better outputs.

The forest policy declared that the derivation of direct economic benefit from forest must be subordinated to the need for environmental stability and maintenance of ecological balance, an overriding imperative for the sustenance of ecosystem services that support crop production and humanity. The overall attempt was towards strengthening agricultural systems along with appropriate diversification to meet the growing needs and expectations of the country and its economy. Forest, the foster mother of agriculture, had to play its role in a subtle but definite way.

Indias Agroforestry Policy 2014 acknowledges that agroforestry is the only alternative to meeting the target of increasing forest or tree cover to 33 per cent of its geographical area, as envisaged in the National Forest Policy 1988. It describes agroforestry as an ecologically based natural resource management system that sustains production and has the potential to improve ecosystem services through carbon storage, reduction in damage to forests, conservation of biodiversity, and soil and water conservation enabling agricultural land to withstand extreme weather events like floods and droughts, and climate change. The emphasis on Agroforestry perhaps also came as a response to the statement in National Agriculture Policy 2000 which said, "Agriculture has become a relatively unrewarding profession." It stressed, "Farmers will be encouraged to take up farm/agro forestry".

The field situation, however, shows that economic considerations have pushed agriculture in a big way towards industrial agriculture which, in its present exploitative form, is robbing the future generations of their entitlement to resources that they are not here to defend. Intensive sugarcane cultivation dependent on water mining in the Marathwada region of Maharashtra is a case in point. Agroforestry is conspicuously different from this. As a land use system with long-term sustainability and relatively lower risks, its true potential of providing unyielding support to the economy and well-being of our farmers is yet to be realized. The operationalization of site-specific treatment models; duly developed using local species combinations within the broadly conceptualized agri-Silvi, agri-horti, and agri-silvi-pasture systems in combination with animal husbandry; remains to be firmly institutionalized.

The Agroforestry policy outlined several obstacles that plagued agroforestry in the country. Some of these have been attempted to be addressed but a lot has still to be done. Some of the learnings from the field may help in taking future action on various aspects.

On the regulatory framework aspect, while the Policy recommended the creation of simple mechanisms/procedures to regulate the harvesting and transit of agroforestry produce, the Tree Felling Regulation Acts in many states have been amended to exempt species mostly grown on private lands. Interestingly, as per the India State of Forest Report 2021 by the Forest Survey of India, the tree cover outside the recorded forest area is a significant contributor (721 sq. km) to the increase of 2,261 sq. km of total forest and tree cover in the country. The impact of generously removing Bamboo from the definition of the tree under the Indian Forest Act 1927 just with the objective of deregulating the transit of farm-grown bamboo, however, provides a lesson. The result is the decriminalization of bamboo felling even in the Reserved Forest areas and a loss of 10,594 sq. km of bamboo-bearing area in the country as per this report. Further, there are reports from Maharashtra where farm-grown farm-grown bamboo is difficult to sell because of the easy availability of bamboo from forests on account of unregulated removals in the name of community forest rights under the Forest Rights Act 2006. Needless to say, prior to legal interventions all possible implications on the ground must be assessed.

Better and farmer-friendly institutional credit and insurance are a must for promoting agroforestry. The major issue of non-participation of small farmers needs optimization of farm productivity coupled with the creation of a mix of livelihood opportunities and mechanisms to address gestation and market access-related issues. The prevailing perception of high-output monoculture systems must be replaced by multiple-produce-based sustainable options provided by agroforestry. Over 30 research centres of the ICAR involved in agroforestry research, with the adoption of the latest technologies, have a crucial role to play in this regard apart from the extension wing of the agriculture department.

To raise agroforestry taken up by small farmers at economies of scale, the pathbreaking example created in villages of Palamau district of Jharkhand using Chakriya Vikas Yojana to aggregate the farm-related interests of farmers (including that of absentee landlords) in a transparent manner is certainly replicable. In many areas, support can be got from industries including Ayurvedic Drug Manufactures for the supply of inputs, buying back of outputs and marketing. Certification of farm-grown produce and a pro-actively functional canalizing agency at export points will go a long way in providing better markets to the practitioners of agroforestry. The returns can also be augmented by connecting agroforestry initiatives with REDD+.

India has taken a great step by notifying the draft Green Credit Programme Implementation Rules, 2023. The concept of the Green Credit Programme in the country has identified activities for increasing the green cover as eligible for credit by naming it Tree Plantation-based Green Credit. In addition, all entities registered for Accredited Compensatory Afforestation as per MoEFCC guidelines, are registered with the Green Credit Registry under the Programme. This should give a boost to tree plantations under agroforestry. Needless to say, maintaining fungibility across the eight sectors identified for the programme is going to be extremely essential for sustaining the programme.

Agroforestry has a tremendous potential of not only salvaging the economic and social condition of farmers but also promises to improve the ecology of the agricultural domain making it sustainable and climate change resilient. The most crucial points, however, especially while promoting and dealing with agroforestry models adopted by farmers will be to ensure integrity, and transparency so that real benefits for local communities and biodiversity are guaranteed.

(The writers are Former IFS officers and Principal Chief Conservator of Forests of UP, Maharashtra)
Leading Taiwanese technology firms are looking at relocating their manufacturing bases to India to bring down their exposure to the Chinese market, top policymakers in the Taiwan government have said, amid the self-governed island's increasingly tense relations with China.

Deputy Minister for Taiwan's National Development Kao Shien-Quey said there is huge scope for collaboration between New Delhi and Taipei in areas of emerging and critical technologies including manufacturing of semiconductors and electronics equipment.

In an interaction with a group of international journalists, she said major Taiwanese technology giants are looking at India as a key destination to strengthen their global supply chains.

Kristy Tsun-tzu Hsu, the director at premier policy think-tank Taiwan ASEAN Studies Center at Chung-Hua Institution of Economic Research, described India as an important country for Taiwan and said Taiwanese companies operating in China are looking at "decoupling" the global supply chain from that country while maintaining it for the domestic consumers.

Leading Taiwanese companies are increasingly looking at relocating their production bases from China to countries in Europe, North America, the US and India in view of Washington's trade dispute with Beijing and the Chinese military's increasing muscle-flexing around Taiwan.

The relationship between China and Taiwan has become increasingly strained after US House Speaker Nancy Palosi's visit to the island in August last year.

India is keen on having production facilities of leading Taiwanese chip producers including Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Corporation (TSMC), the world's largest chipmaker whose clients included Apple.

"With the larger context of global supply chain restructuring and the 'China plus one' strategy, I am sure that we will see an acceleration of collaboration between the two sides in the field of semiconductor and information and communication industry," Shien-quey said.

It is learnt that a sizable number of Taiwanese companies are going to set up production bases at two industrial parks in India which are being set up exclusively for leading industries from Taiwan.

Talks are in the final stages for a Taiwanese semiconductor company to set up a manufacturing facility in India, an official said on condition of unanimity.

Taiwan produces over close to 70 per cent of the world's semiconductors and over 90 per cent of the most advanced chips that are required for almost all electronic equipment such as smartphones, car components, data centres, fighter jets and AI technologies.

The 'China-Plus-one' strategy aims at encouraging businesses to expand their operations outside of China while maintaining their presence in that country.

"We are actively promoting the diversification of the production bases of the Taiwanese companies and we would like them to move their production bases to other countries with a like-minded value system," Shien-quey said.

Tsun-tzu Hsu said the Indian economy is significantly large and the view is that it can provide some opportunity for Taiwan to change its trade dynamics with China.

"It is not only about trade. It is more about strategic collaboration. Our companies were considering moving to India even before the beginning of the US-China trade war because the Indian economy is so large that it can provide some opportunity to Taiwan to change the dynamics with China and reduce its dependence on China," she said.

Tsun-tzu Hsu said the Taiwanese government has been trying to negotiate a trade deal with India to expand the trade basket. Taiwan-based Foxconn, which is Apple's largest supplier, has an iPhone manufacturing facility in Tamil Nadu.

The company is now setting up another iPhone production facility in Karnataka that is expected to start production by April next year.

New Delhi and Taipei inked a landmark bilateral investment pact nearly five years back that seeks to protect Taiwanese investment in India.

The bilateral trade between India and Taiwan is on an upswing. The volume of trade increased from USD 2 billion in 2006 to USD 8.9 billion in 2021.

"Recently, we see new momentum in Taiwanese companies moving to India and expanding their operations. The expansion of Foxconn is one such example," Tsun-tzu Hsu said.

Deputy Minister Shien-quey said there is a lot of room for collaboration between India and Taiwan in the area of semiconductor manufacturing.

"India is strong in its software capabilities while Taiwan is strong in hardware and manufacturing in the ICT sector. There is a lot of room for complimentary collaboration here. Secondly, India enjoys a very huge domestic market. So this is also an incentive for investment," she said.

The deputy minister said the operations by Foxconn in India are expected to encourage more technology companies to invest in India.

"Since Foxconn is already there (India) and some of the suppliers in the lower part of the supply chain for Foxconn are also in India, I am sure that this will attract more companies to invest in the upstream of the value chain," she said.

China considers Taiwan as its breakaway province and insists it should be unified with the mainland, by force if necessary. Taiwan, however, sees itself as completely distinct from China.

India does not have formal diplomatic ties with Taiwan but both sides have trade and people-to-people relations.

Following the eastern Ladakh border row with China, some experts in India have been pushing for upgrading New Delhi's ties with Taipei, especially in the trade and investment sectors.
At least three village volunteers were killed, and five others sustained injuries in a fresh wave of violence in Manipur. The region has been experiencing ongoing turmoil for the past two months due to ethnic clashes between the Meitei community, predominantly residing in the valley, and the Kuki tribe, which predominantly inhabits the hills.

The latest incident occurred around 4 AM in the tribal villages of Langza and Chinglangmei in Churachandpur, located approximately 70 km southeast of Imphal. According to sources, the village volunteers were stationed in a makeshift bunker, diligently protecting the area.

Chief Minister N Biren Singh, who had offered his resignation earlier this week before retracting it, visited the affected area and shared images depicting the situation.

Security forces are present at the scene and have initiated a combing operation to apprehend the militants responsible for the violence.

Expressing their condemnation, the Indigenous Tribal Leaders Forum (ITLF) denounced the attack on the tribal villages and revealed that five villagers had been abducted. In a statement, the tribal group emphasised the pressing need for immediate action to ensure the safety and security of the tribal communities in Outer Manipur. They called for the imposition of Presidents Rule in the State.
After his nephew and senior leader Ajit Pawar and his supporters rebelled against him and joined hands with the BJP to become part of the Government in Maharashtra, NCP chief Sharad Pawar on Sunday attributed the developments to the Enforcement Directorate (ED) and also to the recent charges of corruption made against his party by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Talking to media persons in Pune after Ajit Pawar was sworn in as the Deputy Chief Minister in the Shinde Sena-BJP alliance Government, Sharad Pawar said: Some of my party leaders were uneasy about the investigations being carried out by the agencies like the ED. After the PMs accusations they got more uneasy, which might have prompted them to take a decision they have taken today.

Many of those who have gone out are in touch with me. Some have also told me how their signatures were taken. They have also said that they would make their stand clear in the next two to three days.

Known for his sarcasm, Pawar thanked Modi for taking away his party leaders and MLAs against whom the latter had made allegations of corruption recently.

Continued on Page 2
In a dramatic turn of events, the Supreme Court late ON Saturday night granted activist Teesta Setalvad much-needed protection from arrest for a period of one week. The Gujarat High Court had earlier in the day rejected Setalvads regular bail plea in a case involving allegations of fabricating evidence to frame innocent people in 2002 post-Godhra riot cases. The HC had ordered Setalvad to surrender immediately.

A bench of Justices BR Gavai, AS Bopanna, and Dipankar Datta convened for a special session at 9:15 pm to hear Setalvads plea. The apex court referred the matter to a regular bench and, in the interim, granted Setalvad bail until a final decision could be reached. Additionally, the Supreme Court issued a stay on the Gujarat High Courts order for a duration of one week, providing a temporary shield for Setalvad.

During the hearing, the Supreme Court sought clarification from Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, who represented the Gujarat Government, regarding the urgency behind denying Setalvad a seven-day window to contest the bail decision, especially considering the significant amount of time she had already spent out of custody. Questioning the sudden alarm and urgency demonstrated by the high court, the bench asked, What dire consequences would ensue if we were to grant interim protection? We find ourselves taken aback by the actions of the High Court. What prompts this sense of urgency?

Setalvad approached the Supreme Court after the Gujarat High Court rejected her bail plea. Despite it being a non-working day for the judiciary, a special hearing was scheduled at 6:30 pm on Saturday to address the urgent matter. Setalvad has been on interim bail since September.

Justices Abhay S Oka and Prashant Kumar Mishra had conflicting views on granting protection to Teesta Setalvad. Justice Oka seemed inclined to grant her interim bail until a detailed hearing on her plea could take place on Tuesday. On the other hand, Justice Mishra appeared hesitant to provide her with interim relief. Setalvads counsels, C U Singh and Aparna Bhatt requested an immediate hearing, while Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, representing the Gujarat government, requested that the hearing be held on Sunday. However, the SC heard the matter at 9.15 PM and granted her one-week protection from arrest.

Earlier, Justice Nirzar Desai of the Gujarat High Court had rejected Setalvads bail plea and instructed her to surrender immediately since she was already out of jail on interim bail.

Setalvad, along with co-accused former Director-General of Police R B Sreekumar, was apprehended by the Gujarat Police on June 25 of the previous year. On July 2, they were placed in judicial custody after completing their police remand. Setalvad was released from jail in September 2022 after being granted relief by the Supreme Court.

In response to the Supreme Courts dismissal of a petition challenging the clean chit given by a special investigation team to then Gujarat chief minister Narendra Modi and others in the 2002 post-Godhra riots cases, the Ahmedabad crime branch filed a First Information Report (FIR) against Setalvad, Sreekumar, and incarcerated former IPS officer Sanjeev Bhatt.

Setalvad, Sreekumar, and Bhatt were accused of misusing the legal process by conspiring to fabricate evidence and frame innocent individuals for a crime punishable by capital punishment.

The Supreme Court, while dismissing the petition filed by Zakia Jafri, who lost her husband and former Congress MP Ehsan Jafri during the riots, stated that it appeared to them that there was a collective effort by disgruntled officials of the State of Gujarat and others to create a sensation by making false revelations that they knew to be untrue.

The Supreme Court emphasised the need to hold all those involved in such misuse of the legal process accountable and proceed in accordance with the law. Consequently, Setalvad and the other two individuals were booked under various sections of the Indian Penal Code, including forgery, fabrication of false evidence, criminal conspiracy, and more.

PNS n New Delhi

In a dramatic turn of events, the Supreme Court late ON Saturday night granted activist Teesta Setalvad much-needed protection from arrest for a period of one week. The Gujarat High Court had earlier in the day rejected Setalvads regular bail plea in a case involving allegations of fabricating evidence to frame innocent people in 2002 post-Godhra riot cases. The HC had ordered Setalvad to surrender immediately.

A bench of Justices BR Gavai, AS Bopanna, and Dipankar Datta convened for a special session at 9:15 pm to hear Setalvads plea. The apex court referred the matter to a regular bench and, in the interim, granted Setalvad bail until a final decision could be reached. Additionally, the Supreme Court issued a stay on the Gujarat High Courts order for a duration of one week, providing a temporary shield for Setalvad.

During the hearing, the Supreme Court sought clarification from Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, who represented the Gujarat Government, regarding the urgency behind denying Setalvad a seven-day window to contest the bail decision, especially considering the significant amount of time she had already spent out of custody. Questioning the sudden alarm and urgency demonstrated by the high court, the bench asked, What dire consequences would ensue if we were to grant interim protection? We find ourselves taken aback by the actions of the High Court. What prompts this sense of urgency?

Setalvad approached the Supreme Court after the Gujarat High Court rejected her bail plea. Despite it being a non-working day for the judiciary, a special hearing was scheduled at 6:30 pm on Saturday to address the urgent matter. Setalvad has been on interim bail since September.

Justices Abhay S Oka and Prashant Kumar Mishra had conflicting views on granting protection to Teesta Setalvad. Justice Oka seemed inclined to grant her interim bail until a detailed hearing on her plea could take place on Tuesday. On the other hand, Justice Mishra appeared hesitant to provide her with interim relief. Setalvads counsels, C U Singh and Aparna Bhatt requested an immediate hearing, while Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, representing the Gujarat government, requested that the hearing be held on Sunday. However, the SC heard the matter at 9.15 PM and granted her one-week protection from arrest.

Earlier, Justice Nirzar Desai of the Gujarat High Court had rejected Setalvads bail plea and instructed her to surrender immediately since she was already out of jail on interim bail.

Setalvad, along with co-accused former Director-General of Police R B Sreekumar, was apprehended by the Gujarat Police on June 25 of the previous year. On July 2, they were placed in judicial custody after completing their police remand. Setalvad was released from jail in September 2022 after being granted relief by the Supreme Court.

In response to the Supreme Courts dismissal of a petition challenging the clean chit given by a special investigation team to then Gujarat chief minister Narendra Modi and others in the 2002 post-Godhra riots cases, the Ahmedabad crime branch filed a First Information Report (FIR) against Setalvad, Sreekumar, and incarcerated former IPS officer Sanjeev Bhatt.

Setalvad, Sreekumar, and Bhatt were accused of misusing the legal process by conspiring to fabricate evidence and frame innocent individuals for a crime punishable by capital punishment.

The Supreme Court, while dismissing the petition filed by Zakia Jafri, who lost her husband and former Congress MP Ehsan Jafri during the riots, stated that it appeared to them that there was a collective effort by disgruntled officials of the State of Gujarat and others to create a sensation by making false revelations that they knew to be untrue.

The Supreme Court emphasised the need to hold all those involved in such misuse of the legal process accountable and proceed in accordance with the law. Consequently, Setalvad and the other two individuals were booked under various sections of the Indian Penal Code, including forgery, fabrication of false evidence, criminal conspiracy, and more.
Session from July 20; Bill to replace Govt of NCT of Delhi ordinance also likely

The upcoming Monsoon Session of Parliament, scheduled to commence on July 20, is expected to be stormy as it may witness the introduction of contentious legislative proposals, including the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) Bill and another Bill aimed at replacing the Government of National Capital Territory of Delhi (Amendment) Ordinance.

The situation in Manipur will also come into sharp focus.

Monsoon Session 2023 of Parliament will commence from July 20 and continue till August 11. I urge all parties to contribute towards productive discussions on Legislative Business and other items during the Monsoon Session, said Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Pralhad Joshi on Twitter.

There will be a total of 17 sittings in this session lasting 23 days. I appeal to all parties to contribute constructively to the legislative and other business of Parliament during the session, said Joshi.

Parliament is convening at a time when Prime Minister Modi has made a strong pitch for a UCC, and the Government is rapidly stepping up consultations on the issue.

A large section of the Opposition, including the Congress and the Left, has opposed it and described the UCC move by the BJP Government as a diversionary tactic close to the 2024 Lok Sabha Poll and called for wider consultations on the issue.

The BJP-led Uttarakhand has already completed its report on the UCC and is set to implement it in the State.

Meanwhile, the Congress discussed its parliamentary strategy in a meeting of the Congress Parliamentary Strategy Group at the residence of UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi.

The party decided to confront the Modi Government on several matters, including the Uniform Civil Code (UCC), the situation in Manipur, and the demand for the dismissal of the Railways Minister following the Balasore Train tragedy.

Congress spokesperson Jairam Ramesh briefed the Press on the meeting, stating, We held this meeting 20 days prior to the Monsoon Session because there are crucial public issues confronting the nation. We discussed our strategy for addressing these issues in Parliament.

Regarding the issues discussed, Jairam Ramesh highlighted the violence in Manipur as the first concern. He stated, The Congress will continue to demand the resignation of the Manipur Chief Minister.

Expressing dissatisfaction with the lack of positive outcomes from the Home Ministers visit to Manipur and the Prime Ministers silence on the matter for the past 60 days, he urged Modi to break his silence and address the issue. The Congress intends to seek a debate on the Manipur unrest during the upcoming Parliament session.

The meeting also addressed the issue of Rahul Gandhis disqualification from Parliament. Ramesh provided this update, along with discussing the Odisha train accident that claimed 292 lives.

He called for the resignation of Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, emphasising that the Government was not adequately prioritising railway safety.

The Congress leader urged Modi to accord the same importance to railway safety as he does to the inauguration of Vande Bharat trains.

The Congress also plans to push for a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) investigation into the Adani issue and also raise concerns about the treatment of protesting women wrestlers by the Delhi Police.

Jairam reiterated the partys position on the Uniform Civil Code, stating, We stand by our statement issued on June 15. Nothing significant has occurred since then.

During the session, several significant legislative proposals will be on the agenda. Among them are the eagerly awaited Digital Personal Data Protection Bill and the Forest Conservation (Amendment) Bill.

Additionally, a crucial Bill aimed at replacing the Government of National Capital Territory of Delhi (Amendment) Ordinance will be up for discussion.

Of particular importance is the voting on the NCT Bill, which will serve as a litmus test for the recently formed Opposition unity.

The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) has actively engaged with various political parties, seeking their support against the Bill. The stance taken by non-Congress, non-BJP parties on this issue will provide valuable insights into the evolving dynamics of the political landscape.

While the ruling BJP holds a commanding majority in the Lok Sabha with its 303 Members of Parliament (MPs), ensuring smooth passage of the NCT Bill in the Lower House, the situation may be more challenging in the Rajya Sabha.

The Upper House currently has 238 MPs, and if non-BJP parties join forces, the BJP and its allies combined strength of 111 MPs, including nominated members, could face significant opposition from the 106-member strong Opposition, excluding the Biju Janata Dal (BJD), Yuvajana Sramika Rythu Congress Party (YSRCP), Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP), Telugu Desam Party (TDP), and Janata Dal (Secular) [JD(S)].

These five parties were absent from the recent Patna meeting and have expressed their preference for maintaining an equidistant stance from both the BJP and the Opposition front. However, the BJD, YSRCP, and BSP have yet to clearly state their position on the NCT Bill, possibly due to concerns about the implications of the ordinance on State Governments.

The BJD and YSRCP hold nine seats each in the Rajya Sabha, making their support pivotal.

The AAP has been actively rallying the Opposition to collectively vote against the Bill, as it undermines the principle of federalism by sidelining an elected Government and granting excessive control to the Lieutenant Governor over civil servants.

Arvind Kejriwal has engaged in discussions with Opposition leaders, seeking their unequivocal commitment to voting against the Bill. However, Congress has not made any definitive commitment thus far, leaving the outcome uncertain. The voting on the NCT Bill is set to be a significant moment that will shape the political landscape in the lead-up to future elections.
Unplanned infrastructure development, inadequate drainage and excavation of roads through unstable debris slopes accelerated the instability and land subsidence in the historical Himalayan town of Joshimath in Uttarakhand. These are the findings in the study Unstable slopes and threatened livelihoods of the historical Joshimath town, Uttarakhand Himalaya, India, published in the latest edition of Current Science journal.

The study was conducted by Indian geologists and scientists between August 2022 and January 2023 when the region reported land subsidence resulting in the evacuation of the locals from their houses. SP Sati, a senior geologist and head of department of basic and social science, College of Forestary, Ranichauri said, As an immediate measure, there should not be any excavation activities, particularly of the precariously balanced crystalline boulders. The landslide deposits contain moderately fine grains (pebbly sand), which act as the filling material between the boulders.

It has been observed that there are cavities (mimicking potholes) on the surface which we speculate are caused due to the selective removal of fine sediments by unregulated domestic wastewater drainage. In recent times, these cavities are posing a serious threat to the stability of the built-up structures in Joshimath town.

Authors Maria Asim and Shubhra Sharma from Department of Geography, Institute of Science, Banaras Hindu University were of the views that since the roads at various zones in the region were undergoing subsidence at multiple places, special engineering skills is required while excavating the slopes for road construction, which are currently lacking. Consequently, our response to maintaining the roads in such areas is reactive (repair following subsidence) and not proactive (providing long-term slope stability).

One of the ways to circumvent this chronic problem of continuous creeping and subsidence is by making elevated corridors with pillars deeply anchored on hard rock substratum, as done for the ropeway in Joshimath town, they said.

The other authors of the study include, YP Sundriyal from Department of Geology, HNB Garhwal University, Srinagar , Naresh Rana from the Department of Geology, Centre for Advance Studies, University of Delhi and Vijay Bahuguna who works with Department of History, VSKC, Govt PG College in Dehradun. Shubhra Sharma is currently in the Geosciences Division, Physical Research Laboratory, Ahmedabad.

The fragile town, in the last few decades witnessed significant surge in population resulting into huge infrastructure development. Thus causing immense pressure on the finite resources and limited accommodation space on precariously balanced vulnerable slopes.

For example, multi-storied houses in the Yamuna and Bhagirathi valleys are hundreds of years old and have withstood several earthquakes, including the 1991 Uttarkashi and 1999 Chamoli events, said the study.

Similarly, the traditional irrigation system in the hills is based on small canal networks which are diverted from small to moderate streams without obstructing them. This type of irrigation is still in practice.

However, in the last few decades, Uttarakhand Himalaya has witnessed large-scale infrastructural developmental activities, particularly the proliferation of urban towns driven by the increase in urban population up to 20 times between 1901 and 2011.Such a rapid rate of urbanization, if executed in an unplanned manner, is likely to create an additional burden on existing resources and infrastructure, adversely impacting the mountain ecology and terrain instability.

Therefore, it is important to assess the emerging risks and vulnerabilities associated with growth of infrastructure on precariously stabilised slopes, particularly in the Higher Himalaya, said the authors.
Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan has said that the spirit of service lies at the core of the Indian society and India. The same consciousness pervades all beings.

This is the basic idea of Indian culture. Saint Kabir also said that "Sahib teri sahibi, sab ghat rahi samaya, jo mehndi ke paat mein, laali lakhi na jaaye." This means God is in every human being but is not visible. Just as the red color is contained in the green henna leaf, but is not visible. Man's contribution is visible through service and meditation.

Chouhan was addressing the concluding programme of G-20 Sewa Summit at Kushabhau Thackeray Convention Hall today. The Chief Minister also honoured numerous social workers. Several guests including the President of the Indian Council for Cultural Relations Vinay Sahastrabuddhe were present in the programme.

Chief Minister Chouhan said that along with humans, we are also alert for the protection of animals and birds and the environment. Right from birth, you are fed the potion of service. There is a sense of live and let live in the mind.

There can be no service without compassion and feeling of belongingness. There are stories in every village and town of the country, so it is said that "May religion be victorious, unrighteousness be destroyed, harmony among the living beings and the welfare of the world". Bharat itself has given this mantra. Our sages said thousands of years ago that we should keep a sense of fraternity in mind for all beings to be happy. This Sewa Summit will strengthen the spirit of world humanity, universal brotherhood and service. This feeling makes life meaningful.

Chief Minister Chouhan said that India's vision, in itself, is also the solution to entire world's problems. Our Prime Minister Narendra Modi is also strengthening the spirit of "Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam". Planting trees should be done in conduct and not in speech, only then our role will be meaningful. Others are also inspired by such actions. I am satisfied that I have been planting saplings every day continuously for two and a half years. Every person should plant trees for the service of the earth and at least keeping in mind the oxygen of his requirement. Life becomes meaningful even by serving the downtrodden and the poor. He hoped that this conference would give a new meaning to the spirit of service.

Chief Minister Chouhan while welcoming all the participants from the country and abroad in the Civil: 20 Sewa Summit, said that every person wants to attain happiness of mind and soul. Even if a citizen is of criminal tendency, there is a feeling of kindness in him. For the happiness of the soul, a person engages in service work. The sense of attaining happiness of mind and soul provides inspiration for charity and service work. Chief Minister Chouhan also gave examples while sharing his experiences of practical life related to this.

Dr. Vinay Sahastrabuddhe said that Chouhan is basically a service yogi. While serving the state for two decades, he has made a relation of affinity with the public. He connects the public with him, that is why he is called the maternal uncle of the state. Serving has been an integral part of our culture. The inclusion of the theme of service in the G-20 is a matter of pride in itself. The message of "Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam" will inspire the whole world at the Seva Summit an held in India.

Chief Minister Chouhan released 2 books - "Seva, Sushasan Aur Sahbhagita Ke Do Dashak" (2 Decades of Service, Good Governance and Participation ) and "Seva-Sense of Service: Compendium of Practices Across G-20 Countries". Chouhan honoured 16 Seva Yogis who did excellent work in the service sector by giving them shawls and mementos.
The Leader of Opposition in Punjab Vidhan Sabha Partap Singh Bajwa on Sunday categorically asserted that he, along with the Punjab Congress, will always stand firm to safeguard the interests of Punjab and is committed to robustly defend Punjab's rights over Chandigarh. My and my party's stand is crystal clear that not even a single inch of Chandigarh could go to HP or Haryana, said Bajwa.

Senior Congress leader said that he had never remained silent on the issues concerning the interests of Punjab. On the contrary, it is the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP)  led Punjab Government that attempted to dilute Punjab's claim on the capital and river waters."

AAP government has already surrendered Punjab's right over Chandigarh. Mann has yet to delete his July 9, 2022, tweet in which he demanded a piece of land in Chandigarh from the Centre for a separate Punjab Vidhan Sabha. This means that Mann still owns his statement in that tweet, which actually weakens Punjab's case, he said.

Bajwa said: Besides this, AAP Government never presented the case of Punjab's rights on its river waters strongly enough. In a meeting with Union Home Minister Amit Shah in July 2022, AAP Government's Cabinet Ministers  Harjot Singh Bains and Harpal Singh Cheema  demanded a new tribunal for assessing the states river water that weakened Punjab's rights on river waters. Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann never cited riparian law to claim Punjab's rights on river waters in meetings held lately.

Unleashing a volley of questions at Mann, Bajwa said that he (Mann) must explain now what had he done so far to ensure that the Punjab Government was working on its own without the intervention from the 'pawns' sent by the AAP Delhi in Punjab. Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann, in reality, is nothing more than a rubber stamp. It is the Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal who has been running the Punjab Government through his close confidants, he added.

Qadian MLA said that there was enough evidence to prove that AAP was working hand in glove with its master BJP. It has recently lent its support to the BJP on the Uniform Civil Code (UCC), which could upset the cordial environment of the country. AAP extended its veiled support to the BJP on CAA. AAP also backed BJP in August 2019, when Article 370 was revoked and the full state of Jammu and Kashmir was bifurcated into two Union Territories, he reminded.
In the light of the Supreme Courts judgement on the proposed Vedanta University, a State-level meeting was held by the Vedanta Biswavidyalaya Birodhi Sangarsha Samitti here under the chairmanship of its convenor and former MLA Umaballav Rath to demand implementation of the courts order by the State Government. Political leaders from Congress, BJP, CPI and CPI(M) as well as intellectuals and activists expressed their views. The Sammitis main two demands were return of the project-acquired land to the local farmers and Lord Jagannath Temple immediately without collecting the compensation amount from the land losers and collection of the court-imposed fine from Vedanta.

Congress leaders Niranjan Patnaik, Jagannath Patnaik, MLA Mohammad Moquim and Panchanan Kanungo, BJP leader Bijay Mohaptra, CPI(M) leader Suresh Panigrahi, CPI leader Ramkrushna Panda, activist Prafulla Samantara, Gandhian Krishna Mohanty, Padama Shri Devi Prasanna Pattnaik, journalist Rabi Das and others shared their views and supported the Samitis demand of return of the acquired land to the land losers. They criticised the then State Government for its procedural illegality in allotting land to the proposed Vedanta University at Puri

MLA Moquim suggested a Padayatra from Puri to Kalahandi for public awareness on the issue which was supported by others.

The participants suggested formation of a committee to chalk out next legal, administrative, political and public-awareness courses of action. While Panchanan Kanungo suggested CLP leader Narasingha Mishra to head the committee, Niranjan Patnaik wanted that a non-political leader like Gandhian Krishna Mohanty should head it.

Samiti convenor Umaballav Rath thanked everybody who supports the anti-Vedanta University movement.
Bhopal Mayor Malti Rai planted saplings in Swarna Jayanti Park located at ward 58 and on this occasion various Resident Welfare Committees appreciated the tree plantation campaign being run with a view to maintain environmental balance and also called upon each and every person to plant saplings.

Mayor Rai on Sunday morning visited ward no. golden jubilee under ward 58 with councilor Rakesh Yadav and various resident committees and NGOs in the park planted trees along with the office bearers.

She congratulated members of various Resident Welfare Committees and NGOsfor tree plantation drive. Tree plantation is a very important work in the direction of environmental protection.

Plants and trees should be taken care of, Mayor Rai appealed to the citizens and said that in environmental protection, every person has some or the other responsibility in terms of human health. Plants must be planted on the occasion so that we get a pollution free environment

In another development Mayor Rai congratulated the participants of the G-20 conference organized in the capital.

Along with Shramdaan(labour) for cleaning work under Swachh Abhiyan at Arera hills area in the ongoing campaign, Mayor Rai segregated the wet-dry waste collected in Shramdaan.

Keeping them in bags also motivated the citizens for active cooperation in the cleanliness work.

Mayor Rai participated in the Swachh Abhiyan at the G-20 conference and also expressed gratitude to the participants organized the two-day G-20 in the state capital Bhopal.

Cleanliness drive was conducted in the morning on Sunday with many participants from India and abroad who came to participate in the conference under the campaign, Shramdaan was done for the drive.

On this occasion, Mayor Rai said that we want to make our city the cleanest city in the country and the world and continuous efforts are being made. She is happy that the G-20 conference participants also expressed their desire to participate in the Swachh Abhiyan.

Sanitation work was done in areas of Bhim Nagar, Arera Hills, Vidhansabha areas of ward 33. The participants performed shramdaan and also gave messages to citizens for active contribution in cleanliness.
Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Sunday accused both the BJP and the Congress of looting Chhattisgarh since its formation.

The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader made the accusation at a public rally at the Science College Ground in Bilaspur ahead of assembly elections. Kejriwal said the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) was out of the race in Chhattisgarh and that his partys competition in the assembly polls was only with the Congress.

He promised free electricity, posh schools and more power to the people of Chhattisgarh over forests and minerals in the state if the AAP was elected to power.

"At present, Chhattisgarh is known for corruption and scams. Both the Congress and BJP looted the state alike," he said. "Before the AAP came into power, Delhi nursed the same fate, he added. This was the second big rally the AAP convener held in Chhattisgarh after one in March this year.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Sunday made a strong pitch for consolidation of backward class voters in Uttar Pradesh ahead of the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, saying the state had got completely rid of the divisive forces of Samajwadi Party and Bahujan Samaj Party after Bharatiya Janata Party and Apna Dal (Sonelal) joined hands to win four elections in the state.

Paying glowing tributes to Apna Dal founder Dr Sonelal Patel on his 74th birth anniversary at Indira Gandhi Pratishthan here on Sunday, Shah lashed out at the SP and the BSP while underlining the credentials of the BJP as a party devoted to the welfare and uplift of the poor disadvantaged groups, Scheduled Castes and Other Backward Classes.

Shah said the BJP in alliance with the Apna Dal (Sonelal) had won two Lok Sabha elections and two state assembly polls in Uttar Pradesh since 2014 and the BJP in alliance with Apna Dal (Sonelal) and NISHAD party would again win the 2024 Lok Sabha election in UP and Narendra Modi would be the prime minister for the third term with over 300 seats in Lok Sabha. He made Apna Dal (Sonelal) workers take the pledge to make Narendra Modi the prime minister of the country for the third time in a row in 2024.

The Union home minister also lauded the leadership of UP Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, saying that in view of the robust law and order in the state, UP had received big investments in different sectors of the economy and the state was developing at a fast pace.

He also lauded Sonelal Patels daughter Anupriya Patel, a minister of state in the Narendra Modi government, saying she was taking the legacy of Dr Patel forward and working for the poor, SC and OBCs.

Sonelal Patel made efforts to usher in happiness in the lives of the poor people from different sections by uniting them. He went to jail and even faced torture, but he did not leave the path of struggle undertaken for the backward people, he said.

Listing the measures taken by the BJP and Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the last nine years since 2014, Shah said, For the first time since independence, 27 ministers in the Union Council of Ministers are from SC and OBC communities.

He said the Bharatiya Janata Party/National Democratic Alliance had the maximum number of MPs from SC, ST, OBCs and poor communities.

The SP and BSP were part of several governments at the Centre in the past but they never cared for the representation of the disadvantaged social groups in the Union government, Shah pointed out.

He said the SP and the BSP never cared for the National OBCs Commission, and it was the Narendra Modi government which ensured constitutional status for the National OBCs Commission. Moreover, Shah said the Narendra Modi government had also ensured 27 percent reservation for the OBCs in NET.

He said financial assistance was directly provided through DBT (direct benefit transfer) to pre-matric and post-matric students of the OBC community.

Shah said besides working for the SC and OBCs, the Modi government consistently worked for the poor and brought positive changes in the life of 60 crore poor people.

Shah said the Yogi Adityanath government had established a state university in Azamgarh named after Raja Suheldev and Dr Sonelal Medical College in Pratapgarh district. He said under the Vishwakarma scheme, over Rs 100 crore had been provided to 68,000 artisans and a maximum number of government jobs to the OBCs in UP had been provided by the Yogi Adityanath government.

Shah said Prime Minister Narendra Modi had ensured the security of the country and its borders.

During the Congress led UPA government, bomb explosions and cross-border terror attacks were the order of the day. The Modi government has effectively curbed the menace, Shah said.

He said Article 370 and Article 35A were abrogated and the new era of development had begun in India.
Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami met the union minister for animal husbandry, fisheries and dairy development Parshottam Rupala in New Delhi on Sunday. The duo discussed issues related to animal husbandry and dairy in Uttarakhand. In the meeting the CM requested Rupala for release of the remainder budget of cattle insurance under the National Livestock Mission. Expressing gratitude to the Union government, the CM said that cattle insurance for the cattle owners in the border and the plain areas of the State is being operated in the State under the National Livestock Mission. The State has received a sum of Rs 14.26 crore in the financial year 2022-23 out of the sanctioned budget of Rs 40 crore. Dhami said that insurance of 1,45,451 cattle has been done in the State so far and to achieve the target the union government should release the remaining budget. The CM further said that 60 mobile veterinary hospitals are operational under which modern medical facilities are being provided to the doorstep of the cattle owners. A total of 58,392 cattle are being served by these mobile vans. Dhami said that the union government should provide a sum of Rs 786.94 Lakhs to the State government so that the facility of mobile hospital for cattle is also extended in the remaining 35 development blocks. He said that the PPR eradication scheme is operational in the State for maintaining the health of the sheep and goat in the State. Dhami said that 14 lakh doses are needed to achieve the target of making the goats and sheep free from PPR by the year 2030. The Union minister assured Dhami that every possible support would be extended to the State.
Two persons were killed and two others of the same family were injured in a road accident in Durg district of Chhattisgarh on Sunday.

Rajendra Barle (40) and his son Bharat (4) died while the formers wife and daughter were injured, Durg Superintendent of Police Shalabh Kumar Sinha said.

The incident took place near Motipur Chowk when the Barle family were heading to Amleshwar village on a motorcycle.

A heavy vehicle hit the motorcycle killing the father and son on the spot. The injured are said to be critical.

Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel expressed grief over the incident and announced a compensation of Rs 4 lakhs each to the kin of the dead.
Press Release

July 2, 2023 Considering the unprecedented challenges brought by COVID-19, Bong Go lauds current admin's pandemic recovery efforts Senator Christopher "Bong" Go, Chair of the Senate Committee on Health and Demography, expressed his appreciation and support for the pandemic recovery efforts undertaken by the administration of President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos, Jr. As the country continues to grapple with the socio-economic impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, Senator Go commended the administration's proactive approach and strategies to address the challenges faced by the Filipino people since President Marcos took oath last year. "So far, the administration of President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. is doing very good, especially in steering the country towards recovery from the pandemic as an immediate goal on his first year in office," expressed Go. The Senator also stressed the importance of the efforts done by the past administration of former president Rodrigo Duterte in ensuring that the country is now able to better cope with the challenges brought about by the health crisis. "Sana ay ipagpatuloy ng kasalukuyang administrasyon ang mga magagandang nasimulan nito sa kanilang unang taon at pati na rin yung mga magagandang programa ng nakaraang administrasyon ni dating pangulong Rodrigo Duterte. Sana ay madagdagan pa ang mga ito, lalo na yung mga proyekto at programang nakakatulong talaga sa mga mahihirap nating kababayan," he continued. Meanwhile, Go has urged the Department of Health (DOH) to carefully assess the prevailing situation before making any decision regarding the lifting of the state of public emergency due to COVID-19 in the country. Recognizing the importance of balancing public health and the gradual resumption of economic activities, the senator emphasized the need for a cautious and data-driven approach, saying, "We have to consider everything and make sure that the proposed lifting of the State of Public Health Emergency due to COVID-19 is evidence-based and dictated by good science." "This includes ensuring that our present healthcare system is strong enough should there be an alarming increase again in the number of COVID-19 cases," he emphasized. Go likewise stressed the significance of considering key indicators such as infection rates, vaccination coverage, hospital capacity, and the readiness of local health systems before easing restrictions. In addition, Go appealed to the DOH to expedite the release of all applicable COVID-19-related allowances for healthcare workers. Recognizing the tireless efforts and sacrifices made by these frontliners in the battle against the pandemic, Senator Go emphasized the importance of providing them with the necessary support and recognition they deserve. "Dapat na maibigay na ng gobyerno ang para sa ating mga healthcare workers sa lalong madaling panahon. Kasama na dyan ang mga death benefits ng mga medical frontliners natin na nag-alay ng kanilang buhay para sa kaligtasan at kapakanan ng kanilang kapwa Pilipino. Ang mga allowances na ito na ipinaglaban nating mapondohan sa Senado, kung tutuusin, ay napakaliit na halaga kung ikumpara sa malaking sakripisyong ginawa ng ating mga magigiting ng healthcare workers," stressed Go. "With or without the State of Public Health Emergency, the government should fulfill its obligations to protect the lives of Filipinos, safeguard their health, and give what is due to them, especially to our medical frontliners," he emphasized. Echoing President Marcos' legislative priorities, Go principally sponsored and is one of the authors of Senate Bill No. 2212, commonly referred to as the Regional Specialty Centers Act. The Regional Specialty Centers Act, as explained by Senator Go, is designed to establish specialized medical facilities in each region of the country. The primary objective of this legislation is to alleviate the challenges faced by patients who need specialized treatments by reducing the need for long-distance travel and the associated financial burdens. "As a senator, I continue to support his many legislative priorities, especially those pertaining to strengthening further our healthcare system. In fact, as Chair of the Senate Committee on Health, we have recently passed one of his priority measures, the Regional Specialty Centers Bill, which I principally sponsored and is one of the authors in the Senate. Rest assured, we will continue working with the current administration in bringing crucial government health services closer to the people," the senator cited. Go also particularly lauded the Marcos Administration's efforts to uplift the lives of poor Filipinos as stated in its Philippine Development Plan 2023-2028. "I will continue to support efforts to address the needs of the poor, the hopeless and the helpless sectors of our society by reducing poverty and improving social protection, ensuring food security, and providing safe and resilient communities for our people," he said. "Sana ay palagi nating unahin ang mga pinakanangangailangan na walang malalapitan kundi ang gobyerno, at siguruhing meron silang mga trabaho at ikabubuhay, kalidad na edukasyon, maasahang serbisyong medikal, ligtas na pamayanan at sapat na pagkain dahil ayaw nating may magugutom lalo na ang mga mahihirap. Iyan ang pinaka-importante sa akin. Full support po ako basta para sa ikabubuti ng bawat Pilipino!," he ended.
Buffalo police are looking for help from the public as they investigate an Sunday morning shooting.

A 23-year-old Buffalo man who suffered a gunshot wound arrived at Buffalo General Medical Center in a civilian vehicle just after 6 a.m. Sunday, police said in a statement.

The man was transferred by ambulance to the Erie County Medical Center, where he is listed in stable condition.

Detectives are trying to determine if the shooting occurred in the 500 block of Fargo Avenue, a few blocks northeast of the Peace Bridge.

Anyone with information is asked to call or text the Confidential TIP-CALL Line at 716-847-2255

 Barbara O'Brien
Engaging in a war of words with Punjabs veteran politician and senior BJP leader Capt Amarinder Singh, Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Sunday slammed him saying that the history is testimony to the fact that the self-proclaimed wise ness of Patiala scion has ruined the state.

Entire Punjab knows that Captain had always been bothered about his chair rather than the state and its people. By confining himself in palaces, Captain has totally ignored the interests of the state during his days in power. History is a fact that Captain has a lineage of backstabbing Punjab and Punjabis, said the Chief Minister, in response to Capt Amarinders remarks.

The Chief Minister said that no Punjabi can ever forget that forefathers of Capt Amarinder had sided with Mughals and British for their vested interests. They had committed countless atrocities on the patriots fighting for the country's freedom during the British regime, he said.

Toeing the line of his ancestors, the former Chief Minister had hobnobbed with Congress and Akalis whenever it suited his political interests. Again now, he has decided to join hands with anti-Punjab and anti-farmers BJP despite the fact the saffron party is responsible for martyrdom of more than 700 farmers during agitation against draconian farm laws, he said.

The Chief Minister said that power hungry Captain had switched sides only for sake of power which is quite similar to what his ancestors did during the Jallianwala Bagh massacre in 1919 by siding with the British. Captain has already got punishment for his treachery against farmers and Punjabis as people have ousted him from the political arena of state, said Mann.

He categorically said that now in political oblivion, as deposits of all his candidates have been confiscated in 2022 polls, Capt Amarinder is issuing baseless and misleading statements in state, which cannot be tolerated.
The Lieutenant Governors secretariat refuted the chief ministers offices (CMO) allegations that the National Capital Civil Services Authority (NCCSA) has been reduced to a "complete farce", allowing bureaucrats to overturn decisions taken by an elected chief minister and dictating their own will. In a statement, Lt Governors secretariat said a narrative is being projected that officers are not listening and needs absolute control and a lie is being spread that NCCSA is transferring officers from the education department. This is not correct.

No officer who is physically working in the education department was proposed for transfer. The statement that officers are transferring education department officers is nothing but lies. The Press release formally/informally is not giving a true picture of developments taking place in the NCCSA meeting. The NCCSA will release the draft minutes to the press to verify the truth in public domain, Lt Governors secretariat said.

The statement said the agenda of the NCCSA meeting which was held on June 29, include transfer/posting of Officers in Grade-I (DASS); transfer/posting of Forest Service Officials (IFS) and setting up of a High Powered Committee for capacity building. The Second agenda regarding transfer of IFS officers, the Chief Minister kept the file for recording his views. The Third Agenda regarding capacity building of officers was not discussed.

According to the official,regarding the first agenda, the chief minister suggested that no good officer should be transferred out from the Education Department, GNCTD without any substitute. However, there is no proposal to transfer any officer from the Education Department, Delhi government.

As only those officers who are not working in the Education Department, but merely drawing salary without their physical presence in the education department are proposed for transfer so as to facilitate for drawl of salary from proper salary head. Regarding two Officers who are proposed for transfer from the Education Department, The Chief Minister also suggested that these Officers who are not clear from Vigilance angle should not be posted in Education Department, which is accordingly amended.

The request of women officers for transfer from Sub Registrar (SR) was not part of the agenda and it was agreed in principle that it will be brought in the next agenda. In the current agenda one women SR was proposed for change as the agenda contain the name of only one women officer who has been adjusted against one existing SR. The CM wanted two officers to be posted in ministers office and one of them is having a penalty from vigilance angle. The CM office informed (verbally) that this detail should not be mentioned in the minutes, reads the statement.

Reacting on the latest flash point, Delhi BJP President Virendra Sachdeva has said that the problem with Kejriwal is that he wants entire administrative system should run as per his dictate. He has no respect constitutional or administrative norms. He wants to run administration on his whims and runs the only government in the country that steals files from officers chambers after midnight. Two days ago he walked out NCCSA meeting without waiting for the reaction of other two other members of the authority and announced his own suggestions as decision of the meeting and today when the authority meeting minutes came out he is again crying like a child, Sachdeva said. Kejriwal is unable to understand that he is a Chief Minister of a Union Territory who has no absolute powers. It would be better for both Delhi & CM Kejriwal himself if he learns to work in tandem with the bureaucracy, he added.
In yet another case of electrocution, a labourer was electrocuted while working at an under-construction building on the premises of the Lok Nayak Jai Prakash (LNJP) Hospital on Sunday morning.

After the victim got the electric shock, his co-worker took him to the emergency ward of the LNJP hospital around 9 am where he was declared brought dead, a senior police officer said. The incident site was inspected by forensic experts and a crime team of the Delhi Police, the officer said, adding that necessary legal action will be initiated.

The deceased has been identified as Sujeet Kumar, a resident of Samastipur in Bihar, the police said.

According to a senior doctor of the LNJP Hospital, the labourer got electrocuted at the construction site of a 22-storeyed building that is being built between the GB Pant and LNJP hospitals.

The site is owned by the Public Works Department and once the building is ready, it will serve as the the mother and child block of LNJP hospital, the doctor added.

Taking a dig at the Arvind Kejriwal government, Delhi BJP President Virendra Sachdeva said the electrocution incident shows the callousness of Delhi Government in running its hospitals like the LNJP and GB Pant.

He pointed out that a man died of electrocution on the premises of the LNJP Hospital, while an alleged rape and assault case was reported from GB Pant Hospital in May where the woman succumbed to injuries.

Meanwhile, Delhi Public Works Department (PWD) Minister Atishi on Sunday urged Lt Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena to take action against officers whose negligence led to the death of the labourer on the premises of the LNJP Hospital. In a letter to LG, PWD minister said services in Delhi have been in the hands of the Lieutenant Governor of Delhi for the last 8 years. But no action has been taken against any officer for wrongdoing or negligence. Years of inaction by the LG against negligent and corrupt officers is why today such incidents are happening.

Till the time you have the power of services, you will have to take immediate action against these negligent officers, Atishi said.

The minister further said due to their negligence, two lives have been lost, you must break your silence and take immediate action, otherwise the people of Delhi will continue to suffer like this. Lack of accountability of LG is the reason why control over officers needs to be with the elected Government, Atishi added.

Ajit Sharma, 51, was returning home after dropping a passenger in east Delhis Bhajanpura on Friday when his auto-rickshaw got stuck in a ditch filled with rainwater near Wazirabad. When he got out to push the vehicle, he fell in the ditch and drowned.

Despite these incidents, you are sitting silently. It has been two days since an autorickshaw driver lost his life due to the negligence of officers, but you have neither taken any action nor have had the courage to say anything on this matter, she said.
The Lieutenant Governors secretariat refuted the Chief Ministers Offices (CMO) allegations that the National Capital Civil Services Authority (NCCSA) has been reduced to a complete farce, allowing bureaucrats to overturn decisions taken by an elected chief minister and dictating their own will.

In a statement, Lt Governors secretariat said a narrative is being projected that officers are not listening and needs absolute control and a lie is being spread that NCCSA is transferring officers from the education department. This is not correct.

No officer who is physically working in the education department was proposed for transfer. The statement that officers are transferring education department officers is nothing but lies.

The press release formally/informally is not giving a true picture of developments taking place in the NCCSA meeting. The NCCSA will release the draft minutes to the press to verify the truth in public domain, Lt Governors secretariat said.

Sources in the services department said the chief minister has neither approved the minutes nor suggested any changes in the draft minutes proposed by the Member Secretary of the Authority, which were put-up on the basis of discussions held during the meeting of the Authority till now.

The objective is to show through the media that the Authority cannot function therefore the whole power of transfer / posting shall be vested in him, and not in the Authority. This is being done to give an impression that the Authority is not working. In case, the other two members of the Authority moves further with such minutes, then CM says that he is being over-ruled by the officers, sources said

The agenda of the NCCSA meeting which was held on June 29, include transfer/posting of Officers in Grade-I (DASS); transfer/posting of Forest Service Officials (IFS) and setting up of a High Powered Committee for capacity building. The Second agenda regarding transfer of IFS officers, the Chief Minister kept the file for recording his views.

The Third Agenda regarding capacity building of officers was not discussed.

According to the official, regarding the first agenda, the chief minister suggested that no good officer should be transferred out from the Education Department, GNCTD without any substitute. However, there is no proposal to transfer any officer from the education department, GNCTD.

As only those officers who are not working in the education department, but merely drawing salary without their physical presence in the education department are proposed for transfer so as to facilitate for drawl of salary from proper salary head.

Regarding two Officers who are proposed for transfer from the election department, The Chief Minister also suggested that these Officers who are not clear from Vigilance angle should not be posted in the education department, which is accordingly amended. The request of women officers for transfer from Sub Registrar (SR) was not part of the agenda and it was agreed in principle that it will be brought in the next agenda. In the current agenda one women SR was proposed for change as the agenda contains the name of only one women officer who has been adjusted against one existing SR.

The CM wanted two officers to be posted in ministers office and one of them is having a penalty from vigilance angle.

The CM office informed (verbally) that this detail should not be mentioned in the minutes, reads the statement.

Reacting on the latest flash point, Delhi BJP president Virendra Sachdeva has said that the problem with Kejriwal is that he wants the entire administrative system should run as per his dictate. He has no respect constitutional or administrative norms. He wants to run administration on his whims, said Sachdeva.
Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel on Sunday said the Maharashtra developments were an indicator that a lot of political furore could happen till the general elections of 2024.

"Today's incident is an indication that a lot can change in the coming days. Sharad Pawar has not disclosed all his cards. There will be a lot of political furore that would unfold... Whatever happened today, the common man does not like it and that will be seen in the days to come," he said on Ajit Pawar joining the BJP and taking oath as Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister.

Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) leader Ajit Pawar, along with eight MLAs, joined the Maharashtra government on Sunday. The move comes days after Ajit Pawar expressed his desire to step down as Leader of the Opposition in the Maharashtra Assembly.
Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan has said that no stone will be left unturned for the development and welfare of the hardworking citizens of the state. There will be continuous efforts for the development of all sections of the society. The Pal community is hardworking. The benefits of government schemes will be ensured to the Pal Samaj associated with agriculture, animal husbandry and other works. Chief Minister Chouhan was addressing the All India Pal Mahasabha Samagam programme at the Chief Minister's residence premises today. The Chief Minister announced the formation of Maa Ahilya Board in the state, memorial in Indore, construction of Maa Ahilya Devi Lok in Maheshwar and optional holiday on Devi Ahilya Jayanti.

Chouhan said that a ruler like Maa Devi Ahilya cannot be found. She renovated temples from Badrinath to Rameshwaram. She was a symbol of good governance. She was born to establish religion. Got the good fortune today that Maa Devi Ahilya's palki was lifted on her shoulders. She inspires good governance everyone. The contribution of Lok Mata Ahilyadevi is memorable. At the start of the function, Chief Minister Chouhan lifted the palki decorated with a huge portrait of Maa Ahilya Devi on his shoulder. The palki was brought respectfully from the venue to the stage.

Chief Minister Chouhan was felicitated by the President of the State Electronic Development Corporation and the National President of the Mahasabha Shaitan Singh and other people's representatives with turban, shawl-shreefal, flower-shower and huge wreath. Chief Minister Chouhan also welcomed the brothers of Pal community with shower of flowers. The Chief Minister said that he would maintain the respect given by the Pal Samaj and also ensure the respect of the citizens. No thorn will be allowed to come in the way of the citizens. The programme started with the lighting of the lamp. Shaitan Singh gave the welcome address. Jeevan Pal proposed vote of thanks.
Manipal Tata Medical College, a leading institution in medical education and research, joyfully celebrated Doctor's Day on July 01st, 2023. The day was dedicated to honoring and appreciating the selfless efforts of doctors and their significant contributions to the healthcare industry.

The celebration at Manipal Tata Medical College commenced with a special ceremony held in the presence of distinguished guests, faculty members, medical practitioners, and enthusiastic students. The event featured various activities aimed at appreciating the dedication, compassion, and expertise exhibited by doctors in their pursuit of healing and saving lives.

Dr. Pradeep G, the Dean of Manipal Tata Medical College, expressed his heartfelt appreciation for the remarkable contributions made by doctors across the country. He emphasized the importance of empathy, resilience, and continuous learning in the medical profession.

Furthermore, a felicitation ceremony was conducted to honor Dr. Jujhar Manjhi civil Surgeon, Jamshedpur and Dr Vijay Kumar Civil Surgeon Saraikela, who have made significant contributions to the field of medicine. These individuals were acknowledged for their exceptional achievements, dedication to patient care, and pioneering research, which have positively impacted healthcare outcomes and improved lives.

The students of Manipal Tata Medical College played an integral role in organizing various activities, including cultural activities like singing for Unity by budding MBBS students with events like singing and dance and band performance. They also expressed their gratitude and admiration for doctors through heartfelt messages and creative artistic expressions.

Manipal Tata Medical College remains committed to nurturing and equipping future doctors with the knowledge, skills, and values necessary to provide quality healthcare and address the evolving healthcare challenges of our society.

Dr Vijay Kautilya D Associate Dean (Para Clinical), Dr Vinay A V Associate Dean (Pre-Clinical), Dr Sachin Kumar Patil, Dr Kavita Rasalkar, Dr Asim Mishra, Dr Sindhu A V, and Dr Maheshwar Prasad (Head Outreach Programme), Mr Kshitij Mohan, Mr Debasis Sinha, Mr K N Upadhyay (Security Officer), and Mr Sanjay Tewari were present to make this event a grand success.

The event concluded with a heartfelt vote of thanks by Dr Rajiva Dwivedi (Director Academic Administration & Quality) to all the participants, volunteers who contributed to the success of the Doctors Day celebrations.
National Doctor's Day is celebrated in India every year on July 1 to commemorate the medical genius, politician and a passionate freedom fighter Dr Bidhan Chandra Roy. Born on July 1, 1882, The contribution of doctors goes beyond the treatment of health issues, surgeries and saving lives.

They support one through what seems like the darkest phase of their life and encourage them to be hopeful and positive.

National Doctor's Day is the perfect opportunity to honour the medical practitioners and appreciate their presence in our life and in the same series National Doctor's Day celebrated in Bokaro General Hospital in the presence of Dr. Vibhuti Karunamay, Chief Medical Officer of Bokaro General Hospital and Dr AK Agarwal ,Dr Rahul ,Dr Sunil , Dr Akash, Dr Prabhash , Dr Nirupama,Dr Aditi ,Dr Santosh including Rajeev Singh from Mission Hospital .
Haryana Govt implements UDID from Jul 1

Chandigarh: Haryana Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities Raj Kumar Makkar on Sunday announced the implementation of Unique Disability Identity Card (UDID) from July 1 in the state. This initiative is designed to protect and uphold the rights of persons with disabilities (Divyangjans). It is now mandatory for Divyangjans to obtain a UDID card in order to access government benefits and employment opportunities. Highlighting the significance of UDID card for Divyangjans welfare, Makkar said that low-floor buses have been introduced within the campuses of Maharshi Dayanand University, Rohtak and Kurukshetra University to facilitate easy movement for Divyangjans, ensuring that they would face no inconvenience. The government has entered into agreements with three corporate sector companies to promote employment opportunities for persons with disabilities.

Strengthen JJP at every booth level: Ajay Singh Chautala

Chandigarh: Senior JJP leader Dr Ajay Singh Chautala has called for strengthening the party at every booth. In a huge public outreach, Chautala said that with the hard work of party workers, the party's vote percentage will increase from 17 to 51 per cent, and the number of MLAs will increase from 10 to 46 in no time. Starting their Lok Sabha rallies from Jullana, JJP has announced its next rally in Faridabad and then INSO Foundation Day celebrations in Hisar.

Akhil Bhartiya Ayurved Mahasammelan meeting today

Chandigarh: The executive and standing committee meeting of Akhil Bhartiya Ayurved Mahasammelan will be organized at Dhanvantari Ayurveda College in Chandigarhs Sector 46 on Monday. The official spokesperson Dr Geeta Joshi said that discussion on the promotion of Ayurveda in the country and abroad among others will be held during the meeting.

Singla Slimming Clinic Opens Mohali branch

Mohali: Singla Slimming Clinic on Sunday announced opening of its Mohali branch in Sector 117, Airport Road. Dr Anju Singla, Managing Director said: After successfully running three branches in Ludhiana, Jalandhar, and Ferozepur, Singla Slimming Clinic has opened its fourth branch in Mohali.
Chhattisgarh Police on Sunday arrested a 34-year-old Nigerian man from New Delhi and brought him here for cheating a man of Rs 20.10 lakhs.

Additional Superintendent of Police (Urban) Abhishek Maheshwari identified him as Walter Chukwuebuka Lewis. He cheated Tarun Kumar Dewangan of Raipur.

The accused was nabbed from Chattarpur in south Delhi.

He told the police that he took money from Dewanagan between October 2022 and March 2023.

He said he initially bought 1 litre of Fludarabine (oral route) worth Rs 63,000 and paid Dewangan.

Then, he bought 50 more litres of the same medicine and promised to pay Dewangan after converting his dollars into Indian currency. But he did not do that.

The police seized 12 mobile phones, seven SIM cards and Rs 6,500 in cash from him. A court sent him to prison.
A Jamestown man accused of dealing methamphetamine has pleaded guilty to a drug conspiracy charge, U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced.

Michael Murphy, 31, faces a mandatory minimum of 10 years in prison when he returns Oct. 17 for sentencing before U.S. District Judge Richard J. Arcara, Ross said. He entered a plea to a charge of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute, and to distribute, 50 grams or more of methamphetamine.

Prosecutors said Murphy was present in July 2019 when the U.S. Marshal's Service and other law enforcement officers went to a residence on Bishop Street in Jamestown to take a federal fugitive into custody. At that time, they saw methamphetamine in plain sight and seized it, along with $1,476 in cash. When officers returned with a search warrant, they seized another 223 grams of meth.

A search warrant at Murphy's home on Newland Avenue in November 2019 resulted in seizure of methamphetamine, illicit mushrooms, two guns and ammunition, plus $1,642 in cash. Investigators had previously made four drug purchases from Murphy, prosecutors said.

Ross noted that two of Murphy's co-defendants have been convicted and are awaiting sentencing. Three more co-defendants are scheduled for trial in September.

- Dale Anderson
Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, on Sunday, said that Narendra Modi in the last nine years of his tenure as the prime minister of India had realised the dream of social justice by acting on the vision of 'Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas, Sabka Prayas.

He said this slogan was the finest example of social justice.

Addressing the Jan Swabhiman Diwas programme held at Indira Gandhi Pratishthan on Sunday to commemorate the 74th birth anniversary of Apna Dal founder Dr Sonelal Patel, the chief minister said, The whole life of Dr Patel was devoted to social justice. The dreams of social justice for which Dr Patel had fought, Prime Minister Modi made them come true in the last nine years.

The chief minister said that the government medical college in Pratapgarh had been named after Dr Sonelal. He further mentioned that the welfare schemes of the National Democratic Alliance government being implemented in the country were a testament to the commitment of the Bharatiya Janata Party for the cause of social justice.

Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the flags of BJP and NDA are soaring high across the country. The governments schemes are reaching people without discrimination throughout the nation. Every citizen of India is getting equal opportunities to progress, he added.

Speaking of New India, the chief minister asserted that under the leadership of Union Home Minister Amit Shah, a better security environment has been established within New India.

Kashmir has now become a part of mainstream development and democracy. The pilgrimage to Baba Barfani is progressing with great enthusiasm. Prior to 2014, Naxalism had spread to over one hundred districts of the country, but now it has been limited to three or four districts, he added.

Yogi Adityanath further mentioned that under the leadership of Home Minister Amit Shah, Naxalism will entirely vanish very soon.

Many leaders of the NDA, including the BJP, participated in the event. Deputy Chief Ministers Keshav Prasad Maurya and Brajesh Pathak, BJP state president Chaudhary Bhupendra Singh, national president of the Republican Party of India and Union Minister of Social Justice and Empowerment Ramdas Athawale, national president of Apna Dal (Sonelal) Anupriya Patel and NISHAD Party president Sanjay Nishad, along with other leaders and workers, were present at the event.
Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan on Sunday provided assistance to banana farmers of Burhanpur district on crop damage. This amount was given to the affected people for the damage to the crops in the months of April-May and June in the district this year.

Chouhan transferred crop compensation amount of Rs 41 crore 85 lakh to 4261 farmers from the CM's residence office with a single click. The area of affected crops was 3690 hectares. Out of this, the area of affected banana crop is 3470 hectares and that of other crops is 219 hectares. There are 3960 banana crop producer farmers and other crop producer farmers are 301.

It is notable that the banana of Burhanpur is exported to numerous countries of the world. The state government has given financial relief to the banana producing farmers, relieving them from the crisis of crop getting damaged. Banana production has also been selected in Burhanpur district under "One District - One Product". Along with the states of the country, the banana of Burhanpur is also exported to other countries. Several banana chips units and ripening chambers have been set-up here.

Chouhan virtually said in the programme organised in Burhanpur to provide relief to the farmers that the government has changed many parameters for the welfare of the farmers. Such changes have been made from time to time in the Revenue Book Circular, which has benefited the farmers. Now farmers are being given more relief amount for damage to crops, houses and loss of lives of cattle. The Chief Minister informed that the state government has also created a new category on crop damage. Now the farmers who suffer 25% to 33% crop loss will also get relief amount. The second range is 33 to 50% damage. They are also being given relief at an increased rate. Apart from this, a provision has been made to give relief amount considering more than 50% damage as total loss. Many states do not have a loss range of 25 to 33%. The state government has doubled the relief amount in all categories.

Chief Minister said that the compensation rate for banana crop has been doubled. According to this important amendment, now the relief amount will be increased from Rs 15 thousand to Rs 30 thousand per hectare if the farmer suffers 25 to 33 percent damage to his banana crops. Similarly, in case of 33 to 50 percent damage, the relief amount will be increased from Rs 27 thousand to Rs. 54 thousand per hectare. If the damage is more than 50 percent, then the relief amount will be Rs. 2 lakh per hectare instead of one lakh.

Chouhan said that the provision of providing maximum amount to the farmers for crop damage has also been made in the state. Earlier, the maximum amount given was up to Rs.3 lakh, which can now be given up to a maximum of Rs 6 lakh. Chouhan instructed the officials to make insurance arrangements for horticulture crops as well. Chouhan said that the farmers who work day and night need not worry. Only farmers can understand the pain caused by any kind of natural calamity. Crops were destroyed in Burhanpur district earlier also, at that time the then Member of Parliament Late Nandkumar Singh Chouhan raised the problem of the farmers. The state government has done the work of providing adequate assistance to the farmers in times of crisis. In the past, the help given to the farmers during such crisis was also important because many farmers did not have insurance. Chouhan said that Burhanpur has become known throughout the country for providing tap water to every household. Prior to this, Burhanpur has been recognised as the largest banana producing district.
The Badrinath National Highway (NH-7) remained closed for nearly 13 hours near the Lambagad and Khachada drains of the Chamoli district due to incessant rainfall in the Chamoli district. The authorities restricted the movement of vehicles late on Saturday night due to the rise in water level in the drains and boulders on the route, as per the police. Hundreds of commuters including pilgrims and tourists travelling to and returning from the Badrinath shrine remained stuck till the traffic movement was resumed on the route around 11 AM on Sunday. The police said that the teams from the National Highway Authority of India (NHAI) started working to open the highway immediately after getting the news of it being blocked due to rising water levels and debris on the route. Police also made necessary arrangements like food and stay for people stranded near the route on Saturday night, as per the police. They said that all pilgrims were sent to their respective destinations after the vehicular movement was resumed on Sunday around 11 AM. This is the third time in four days when authorities had to shut down the movement on the route due to heavy rain. Earlier on Thursday, heavy rains triggered landslides at the same place that blocked the Badrinath NH. A stretch of 100 metres of the highway was blocked due to a heavy landslide from a hill near Chhinka on Thursday morning. The route was opened on Friday morning but it had to be reportedly shut down again in the evening for a few hours after the administration received complaints of boulders falling off the hill. Later on Saturday, vehicle movement on the highway had to be restricted again due to a rise in the water level in the Khachda drain near Lambagad. The police have appealed to all pilgrims to move ahead in their pilgrimage considering the monsoon. They advised them to not continue their journey in extreme weather conditions and contact the local authorities if they get stuck in any difficulty.
The political affairs committee of Uttarakhand Congress held deliberations on Uniform Civil Code (UCC) and other issues in an online mode on Sunday. In the meeting the senior leaders discussed the strategy of the party. The in-charge of the Uttarakhand Congress Devendra Yadav said that the Modi government is treating Uttarakhand like a laboratory. He said that one should look at the draft before making any comment on the UCC. Yadav said that the party should interact with everyone and then prepare an action plan and strategy on the issue. He suggested that the party should take out five Yatras in Pauri, Haridwar, Almora, Nainital and Udham Singh Nagar districts on the different issues of public interest. Speaking on the occasion, the former chief minister Harish Rawat said that the BJP government has brought up the issue of UCC only to hide failures of its government. He said that BJP is running away from discussions on increasing prices, unemployment, women harassment and Ankita Bhandari case.

The leader of opposition (LoP), Yashpal Arya said that the UCC should not be limited to Hindu- Muslim subject. He said that the country is full of diversities and people of all castes live in the country.

The former Pradesh Congress Committee (PCC) president, Ganesh Godiyal said that the BJP always tries to fan communal sentiments to hide its failures. The national secretary of the Congress, Qazi Nizamuddin termed UCC as the old wine in a new bottle. He said that the UCC is a step in the direction of dissolving reservation.

The chairperson of the disciplinary committee of PCC, Navprabhat said that the PM and home minister are trying to intimidate the people.

The PCC president, Karan Mahara said that the party should take out the Swabhiman Yatra on the issue. He added that first such Yatra would be taken out in Pauri from July 17 to 22.

The deputy leader of Congress legislative party Bhuwan Kapdi, MLA Sumit Hridayesh and heads of frontal organisations of Congress also participated in discussions.
France is burning in the aftermath of point blank shooting of seventeen years old Nahel by a policeman for jumping traffic signal, a minor offence in every country of the world including France. It was a heinous crime by all standards and the guilty must be brought to book. At the same time, the spontaneous breakout of riots and the speed, scale and expanse of violence across France is alarming and speaks of deeper malady which must be addressed carefully.

The refugees have become a big problem for every nation whichever has provided them shelter and succour. The case of France is no different. France gave the principles of liberty, equality and fraternity to the world which became the guiding gospels of modern era. It won't be an exaggeration to say that Paris is the intellectual capital of the world and different principles left, right, left of the centre and right of the centre flourished there. It welcomed every refugee with open arms and gave him all the facilities and privileges of an egalitarian society. Doing so was the need of the hour because of the dwindling workforce in the country. So, it was a complex mix of compassion and necessity.

So far so good. Then why has the honeymoon gone sour ? The fundamental reason is that a refugee is expected to assimilate its culture with the culture of the country he takes refuge in. He is also expected to recalibrate and readjust its belief system with the new country. The refugees of France have failed on both the accounts. On the contrary, they try to impose their norms, values and belief system on the French society. Herein lies the explanation for the mindless and brutal shooting of the young lad and the massive violence in retaliation. If the shooting is symptomatic of a deeper disease, the violence of this scale reflects the well planned preparation on behalf of the immigrants to take on the establishment as and when the situation arose. The rioters burned libraries which is an assault on the intellectual capital of France. It is not a matter of law and order, it is a reflection of the most intense cultural conflict.

France and for that matter the western world need to understand and admit this problem and only then they would be able to treat it properly. It is in this backdrop that Yogi Adityanath and his model of governance is relevant. A French tweeted that Yogi Adityanath is needed to contain the riots in France. Yogi Adityanath has shown how these elements can be effectively handled within the constitutional framework of democracy. Those who champion the causes of these elements keep away from Uttar Pradesh because they know that Yogiji means business. This is the reason that he has been successful in maintaining law and order and punishing the dreaded mafia. The demand for Yogiji keeps coming from different parts of India where state governments fail to deliver on the front of law and order. In this age of social media, the fragrance of good governance spreads far and wide. This is the reason of growing popularity of Yogiji in the world. This is a clarion call to all heads of the states that their voters watch them closely and no ideological cover can shield their mistakes. Get up and act tough against those who try to subvert constitutional obligations whether he is an errant policeman or a powerful group of people who have no respect for the law of the land. It is the duty of the state to enforce the provisions of law as per the procedure of law without any bias of race and religion. It is also the duty of the state not to allow any powerful pressure group to have a field day.

The writer is a noted academician and political commentator. Views expressed in the article are personal
Expressing his opinion on the sensitive issue of Uniform Civil Code (UCC), the chief minister Pushkar Singh said on Sunday that the draft of the expert committee would be studied, legally examined and after that further action would be taken on the issue. He said that the existing customs and practices would not be touched while implementing UCC. Interacting with the media persons in New Delhi the day the CM said that the expert committee constituted by the State government for preparing the draft of the UCC has completed its task. Dhami said that the expert committee has worked for more than a year on the subject and has interacted with all the stakeholders. It has talked with different social groups and all sections of the society and has taken the opinion of 2.35 people in the State.

The CMs statement assumes significance in the wake of the concern raised by the opposition parties on the implementation of the UCC. The CM Dhami has already made it clear that the UCC would be implemented in Uttarakhand.

In the run up for the assembly elections of 2022, the ruling BJP promised that UCC would be implemented in the State if it comes back to power in the state. Accordingly an expert committee headed by retired Justice Ranjana Prakash Desai was set up on May 27, 2022. The committee was mandated to examine all existing and relevant laws regarding marriage, divorce, right for property, inheritance, adoption and protection for implementation of UCC in the state. The committee interacted with more than 20,000 people and studied 2.31 lakh suggestions before compiling the draft of UCC. Amid growing debate in the country on UCC, the Dhami government is expected to convene a session of the State assembly to table the UCC bill soon.
If the government obtained parliamentary nod for the UCC, it is likely to position it as a central issue in the upcoming state elections, with the hope of capitalizing on it in the next years Lok Sabha polls, writes Navin Upadhyay

The ongoing debate surrounding the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) has gained momentum with the Modi government's vigorous push for its implementation. The timing of this push, ahead of the Lok Sabha elections, is seen as a strategic move to consolidate support among the Hindu electorate. With the impending inauguration of the Ram temple in Ayodhya and the previous abrogation of Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has a strong narrative to reinforce its commitment to fulfilling its promises to the nation.

The government's expectation is that opposition parties will reject the UCC, both within and outside the parliament, thereby potentially consolidating Hindu votes in favor of the BJP. Notably, most major opposition parties in India are against the implementation of a Uniform Civil Code. They argue that such a code would infringe upon the freedom of religion for minority communities and contend that the existing system of personal laws is effective in addressing matters of personal and family affairs.

The opposition's concern is rooted in the fear that the UCC might be used as a tool by the ruling party to promote Hindu majoritarianism, which goes against the principles of secularism enshrined in the Indian Constitution. Parties such as the Congress, Trinamool Congress, JD(U), RJD, SP, CPI(M), and CPI have accused the Modi government of exploiting the UCC as a political ploy to appeal to the majority Hindu population ahead of the upcoming elections. On the other hand, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) has expressed conditional support for the UCC, emphasizing the importance of building a broad consensus through consultation with all stakeholders.

The concerns raised by the Akali Dal, a former ally of the BJP, are particularly significant. The Sikh community, known for its strong religious identity, is wary of any attempts to impose laws that could potentially infringe upon their religious practices. Akali Dal spokesperson Daljit Singh Cheema has argued that civil laws, influenced by faith, belief, caste, and customs, should be retained to protect the social fabric and uphold the principle of unity in diversity.

Even the Uddhav Thackeray-led Shiv Sena, a pro-Hindutva party, has refrained from openly endorsing the UCC. In an editorial published in its mouthpiece 'Saamna', the Shiv Sena emphasized that the basis for the Uniform Civil Code should not be solely opposition to Muslim Sharia law. They stressed the need for equality in law and justice as the fundamental principles underlying the UCC, transcending religious affiliations.

The Uniform UCC has been a subject of contentious debate in India for several decades. It pertains to the idea of formulating a common set of personal laws that would apply to all citizens, regardless of their religious affiliation. The UCC aims to promote gender equality, secularism, and social harmony by replacing the existing separate personal laws for different religious communities. However, the implementation of a uniform civil code has faced significant opposition and continues to be a topic of intense discussion within the country.

India, with its diverse religious and cultural mosaic, inherited a system of personal laws from its colonial past. These personal laws govern various aspects of citizens' lives, such as marriage, divorce, inheritance, and adoption. The country currently has separate sets of personal laws for different religious communities, including Hindus, Muslims, Christians, and others. The idea of a uniform civil code was enshrined in Article 44 of the Indian Constitution, which called for its eventual implementation.

The debate surrounding the implementation of a uniform civil code can be traced back to the colonial era when the British introduced separate personal laws for different religious communities. These laws were aimed at maintaining religious and cultural identities but also created disparities in terms of gender rights and social practices.

Proponents of the UCC argue that a common set of laws would promote equality and justice for all citizens. They contend that the existing personal laws, which often differ significantly across religious communities, can perpetuate gender discrimination. For instance, some argue that certain provisions in Muslim personal law, such as those related to divorce and inheritance, are biased against women. Implementing a uniform civil code is seen as a step towards ensuring gender equality and eliminating discrimination.

Supporters of the UCC argue that it would reinforce the principles of a secular state. By having different personal laws based on religious affiliations, critics argue that the state is inadvertently interfering in religious matters. Implementing a uniform civil code would align the legal framework with the principles of secularism, treating all citizens equally, irrespective of their religious background, they argue.

Advocates for the UCC also emphasize that it would foster a sense of national unity and social cohesion. They argue that a uniform civil code would transcend religious boundaries and create a common platform for all citizens, strengthening the bonds of a diverse society. It would promote a shared understanding of rights and responsibilities, thereby contributing to a more harmonious and inclusive nation.

However, opponents of the UCC express concerns about potential infringement upon religious freedoms and cultural diversity. They argue that personal laws are deeply rooted in religious beliefs and practices, and any attempt to impose a uniform code would undermine the autonomy of religious communities. Critics contend that personal laws provide a sense of identity, community, and continuity for religious minorities, and any attempt to change them would be seen as an encroachment on their religious rights.

One of the primary concerns raised by opponents of the UCC is that it may dilute the cultural diversity of India. The country prides itself on its rich heritage and the coexistence of multiple religious and cultural traditions. The proponents of diversity argue that personal laws reflect the distinct identities and practices of different communities, and any move towards uniformity would erode the uniqueness and plurality of Indian society.

Another significant concern is that the implementation of a uniform civil code may disrupt the delicate balance between religious communities in a pluralistic society like India. The country's secular fabric relies on the principle of respecting and accommodating religious differences. Critics argue that enforcing a uniform code may lead to communal tensions and hinder social cohesion. They contend that personal laws have evolved over centuries, shaped by the customs, traditions, and religious scriptures of each community, and any attempt to replace them with a uniform code would disregard these deeply ingrained practices.

Opponents also argue that personal laws provide certain protections and safeguards for marginalized sections of society within specific religious communities. They fear that a uniform civil code may overlook these protective provisions and leave vulnerable groups without adequate legal recourse. For example, Muslim personal law contains provisions for maintenance and the welfare of divorced women, which may not be adequately addressed under a uniform civil code.

The potential implementation of the Uniform Civil Code by the government holds significant implications for the upcoming elections in Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Telangana, and Chhattisgarh. If the government obtained parliamentary nod for the UCC, it is likely to position it as a central issue in these state elections, with the hope of capitalizing on it in the subsequent Lok Sabha polls.

On the other hand, the opposition parties face a delicate balancing act. This is especially crucial as the UCC is being portrayed in media and political debates as something that would primarily affect Muslims. To avoid alienating Hindu voters, the opposition parties will have to articulate their concerns about the UCC without being perceived as practicing the policy of appeasement.

The Goa Uniform Civil Code

The Uniform Civil Code (UCC) has been a subject of debate in India for many years. However, in the small state of Goa, a unique and progressive Uniform Civil Code has been in place for decades. The Goa Civil Code, also known as the Goa Family Law, applies to all residents of Goa, irrespective of their religious affiliation. It is often regarded as a model for a pluralistic society, providing a framework that promotes gender equality and safeguards individual rights while respecting the diversity of religious customs and traditions.

Goa's legal system underwent significant transformations throughout history. Before its liberation from Portuguese colonial rule in 1961, Goa followed the Portuguese Civil Code, which incorporated elements of both Roman and Canon Law. When Goa became a part of the Indian Union, a decision was made to retain certain aspects of the Portuguese Civil Code while integrating reforms to align with the principles of the Indian Constitution.

Key Features:

Gender Equality: One of the defining features of the Goa Uniform Civil Code is its emphasis on gender equality. It grants women the right to inherit property equally, irrespective of their religious affiliation. This provision challenges the discriminatory practices prevalent in personal laws of many other communities in India. The Goa Civil Code also ensures equal rights in matters of divorce, alimony, and child custody, striving to create a more equitable legal framework for women.

Customary Practices and Religious Freedom: The Goa Uniform Civil Code recognizes the significance of customary practices and religious freedom. It allows individuals to follow their respective religious rituals and traditions in matters of marriage, divorce, and inheritance, as long as they do not violate the principles of gender equality and fundamental rights. This approach strikes a balance between preserving religious diversity and upholding constitutional values.

Codification and Simplification: The Goa Civil Code also stands out for its codification and simplification of laws. It consolidates various legal provisions into a comprehensive and accessible code, making it easier for individuals to understand and navigate the legal system. This simplification has contributed to greater legal awareness and empowerment among the residents of Goa.

Others question the feasibility of implementing a similar code at the national level. The diversity of India, both in terms of religion and culture, poses challenges in creating a uniform code that accommodates the complexities and sensitivities of each community.

(The writer is Executive Editor of The Pioneer)
The Sabarmati Riverfront has become the soul of social and cultural activities in Ahmedabad, Union Home Minister Amit Shah said on Sunday as he virtually launched the 'Akshar' cruise on the river that cuts through the city.

Addressing a gathering through video conference, Shah lauded Prime Minister Narendra Modi, saying when the latter was the chief minister of Gujarat, he took many initiatives which helped in increasing the tourist footfall in the state.

Shah said when he shifted to Ahmedabad in 1978, he never went to see the Sabarmati river until the riverfront was constructed.

The river was then nothing more than a pit of dirty water, he recalled.

"As the then Gujarat chief minister, Prime Minister Modi for the first time imagined a riverfront and planned for it, and it was constructed during his duration (as CM). The riverfront became known not just in Ahmedabad but also across the country and abroad and became a centre of tourism," Shah said.

"It has become a centre of various activities. Walkers take a stroll in the morning, senior citizens in the evening, and children and youth play here. Today, the riverfront has become the soul of social and cultural activities on both sides (of the river) of Ahmedabad," he said.

The 'Akshar River Cruise' on the riverfront will be a new attraction for Ahmedabad, he said.

With two engines and a two-hour drive, the 30-metre-long luxury cruise will help boost tourism with attractions such as live music and tasty vegetarian and Jain food, he said.

The river cruise is equipped with 180 life safety jackets, a fire sprinkler system and emergency rescue boats and has been designed keeping the safety of people in mind, Shah said.

Shah said after becoming the chief minister of Gujarat, Modi gave priority to tourism and worked to make the state a centre of tourism in the country through various initiatives.

Modi invested crores of rupees to create an ecosystem to attract lakhs of tourists by connecting pilgrimage centres, borders with improved road connectivity, he said.

"Narendra Bhai developed tourism using his imagination which led to a rise in the number of tourists from India and abroad. Through various initiatives, Modi gave a new shape to Gujarat tourism," Shah said.
At least two "village volunteers" were killed in an exchange of fire with unidentified gunmen in Manipur's Bishnupur district, police said.

The incident took place in Khoijumantabi village late on Sunday night when the "village volunteers" were guarding the area in a makeshift bunker, a police officer said.

Heavy exchange of fire was underway till filing of this report, he said, adding casualties are likely to go up.

More than 100 people have lost their lives in the ethnic violence between Meitei and Kuki communities in the northeastern state so far.

Meiteis account for about 53 per cent of Manipur's population and live mostly in the Imphal Valley. Tribals -- Nagas and Kukis -- constitute another 40 per cent of the population and reside in the hill districts.


(): Seven people were detained, most of them teenagers, after several shop windows in the Swiss city of Lausanne were smashed as young people gathered in an echo of riots in neighboring France, police said on Sunday.

More than 100 people gathered in downtown Lausanne, in French-speaking western Switzerland, on Saturday evening, police said in a statement. It said that they were responding to several appeals on social media linked to several nights of violence that have shaken France after the police killing of a 17-year-old in a Paris suburb.

Several shop windows and a shop door were broken, while officers dispersed youths who threw paving stones and a Molotov cocktail at them, police said. They detained six people ages 15 to 17  three girls and three boys, with Portuguese, Somali, Bosnian, Swiss, Georgian and Serbian citizenship  and a 24-year-old Swiss man.

No police officers were injured.

On Thursday, about a dozen people were detained in the Belgian capital, Brussels, and several fires were brought under control.
It may have been an off year politically  with no big-ticket races for mayor, governor or president  but primary day 2023 gave roughly a quarter of eligible county voters plenty to get excited about.

In Buffalo, media superstars India Walton and Zeneta Everhart squared off in a marquee race for Common Council in the Masten District, and in the suburbs, there was a hotly contested Republican-Conservative contest for County Legislature, with caustic zingers flying about.

Election results Conservative Primary

Still, it was hard to get voters off their couches and into the voting booth, and the percentage that voted in that Masten District race was about the same as it was in two previous local primary election cycles, according to a Buffalo News analysis of Erie County Board of Elections data.

Primaries are just a different kind of a race, Erie County Democratic Committee Chairman Jeremy J. Zellner said.

Erie County Republican Chairman Michael A. Kracker says that as a party leader, he encourages people to get out to the polls during early voting or on Election Day.

But theres nothing that says we have to force voters, he said. Its up to them if they choose to get involved.

The Masten District race for Buffalo Common Council is a prime example.

Roughly 2,300 people cast their ballots for Walton and Everhart on Tuesday, Board of Elections voting records show. Thats 16.4% of all registered Democrats in Mastens Common Council district.

Despite being a high-profile race that garnered lots of publicity, slightly fewer people voted in that primary race than did in 2019 and 2015, when incumbent Ulysees O. Wingo Sr. was taking on a few lesser-known opponents.

Malczewski won't demand recount in close GOP primary for Erie County Legislature seat Just over 20 votes separated the winner and the loser in the most watched Republican Erie County Legislature primary race. Incumbent Legislator Jim Malczewski isn't quite conceding, but he's not demanding a hand recount of ballots either.

In 2019, 17% of registered Democrats voted in the Masten Democratic primary, and in 2015, that figure was 15.9%, though 102 more people cast ballots in the 2015 race than did this year.

Political observers say Democratic turnout probably would have been higher if Erie County Executive Mark C. Poloncarz had faced a primary opponent. Former Grand Island supervisor and congressional candidate Nate McMurray announced he was challenging Poloncarz, but he withdrew from the race in February.

Such a contest might have featured TV commercials, whereas candidates for local offices such as Common Council typically do not raise enough money to run TV commercials or use other expensive advertising. They usually go door-to-door in search of votes.

Zellner said he was surprised the turnout was not higher than 16% in premier races such as Masten and Ellicott. He also attributes that to the recent change in primary dates from September to June.

I think it could also point to the fact that folks, especially in the city of Buffalo, were programmed for 40 years to vote in September, Zellner said. Were only four years into the June primaries here. Its still really difficult to get into that habit.

Turnout was similar in the hottest Republican race: the 10th District County Legislature matchup between James Malczewski and Lindsay Bratek-Lorigo.

Can progressive Democrats win an election in Buffalo? On primary day, 4 of them lost While the progressive candidates are disappointed by Tuesdays results, they say they'll regroup and continue on their quest to influence politics in Buffalo.

More than 3,400 people came out to vote in that Republican primary, or 15.8% of registered Republicans in that district, which includes Aurora, Colden, Concord, Elma, Holland, Sardinia, Wales and West Seneca, according to Board of Elections data.

Kracker noted that there was a slight spike in turnout for that race in areas such as Wales, where candidates were running for town offices such as council member. In Wales, turnout for the 10th District GOP primary was 16.3%

Buffalo Common Council will likely be friendlier to mayor as 4 progressive candidates lose primaries For the first time in nine years, women appear likely to be members of the Common Council. But progressive Democrats likely to act as a check on Mayor Byron W. Brown may not be joining them. Zeneta Everhart, the mother of a Buffalo mass shooting survivor, and Leah Halton-Pope, a senior adviser to Assembly Majority Leader Crystal Peoples-Stokes, won their Democratic primary races Tuesday.

It was low, but there were pockets of pretty high turnout for a local primary election, and thats typically where there were really competitive local races, Kracker said.

The 10th District also featured a Conservative primary  Bratek-Lorigo appears to have won both races, though the results have not been certified  which saw significantly higher turnout among minor party enrollees.

More than 300 voters  or 32.9% of registered Conservatives in the 10th District  cast ballots on that line, which Bratek-Lorigo won by 85 votes. That did not surprise Kracker, because there are only 925 registered Conservatives in the district.

The Conservative Party, given its size, is a little more proximate to their leadership, he said. Our party, being about 10 times the size, you get a little further from the center of your leadership.
At least four security personnel and a terrorist were killed in an exchange of fire between them in Pakistans restive Balochistan province on Sunday.

The attack took place in Dhana Sar area in the province.

Sherani Deputy Commissioner (DC) Bilal Shabbir confirmed the fatalities, adding that the exchange of fire between the security forces and the terrorists continued for almost two hours.

Three police officials and security personnel were killed in the attack in the Sherani sub-district, Shabbir said, adding that a terrorist was also killed.

DC Shabbir added: The companions of the injured terrorists succeeded in taking them away. The body of the dead terrorist has been handed over to the CTD (Counter-Terrorism Department).

The terrorists were well armed and they attacked the checkposts after which the police and security responded and the firing lasted for some two hours, he said.

One security personnel was also injured but is out of danger, Shabbir said.

He further said that the bodies of those killed have been taken to Zhob District Headquarters Hospital.

Stating that law enforcement agencies have cordoned off Dhana Sar and the surrounding areas, the DC added that the CTD has collected evidence from the incidents site and has initiated its probe.

Meanwhile, Sherani District Health Officer Dr Daulat Khan has said that a state of emergency has been put in place at the Zhob Civil Hospital and that all hospital staff had been called to duty despite the weekend.

Balochistan Chief Minister Mir Abdul Quddus Bizenjo condemned the rocket attack and firing on the checkposts and expressed his grief on the killing of the four security personnel.

He also lauded the polices and the FCs efforts in killing one terrorist. The terrorists cannot demoralise the security forces by their cowardly actions, he said in a statement.

The sacrifices of the security forces are a beacon for the nation. The security forces are ensuring the security of the country and the nation with their firm determination and courage, Bizenjo added.

However, no one immediately claimed responsibility for the attack.

Pakistan has seen an uptick in terror activities, especially in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan, after the outlawed TTP ended its ceasefire with the government in November last year.

A day ago, a police constable was injured in a hand grenade attack at the smart police station of Karachi.

On June 24, a police official was killed and two more were injured in a suicide attack on a police van in Balochistans Turbat.

Meanwhile, Pakistan police on Sunday arrested a senior commander of the banned Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and thwarted a terror attack on law enforcement agencies in Multan of Punjab province. Counter Terrorism Department (CTD) of Punjab Police said that they received a tip-off that a top TTP commander was present in Multan following which a joint operation of the CTD, police and an intelligence agency was launched.

During the operation, the raiding team surrounded the whereabouts of the terrorist in Multan and arrested him. He has been identified as Kamal and shifted to an unidentified location for interrogation, the CTD said. It said Kamal was an important commander of TTP in south Punjab who was in charge of the outfits operations in the region. He wanted to target the security personnel in Multan.
Mexican health authorities say there have been at least 112 heat-related deaths so far this year, acknowledging the deadliness of a recent heatwave that the president previously said was being overblown by alarmist journalists.

The report, released late Wednesday, also shows a significant spike in heat-related fatalities in the last two weeks. So far this year, the overall heat-related deaths are almost triple the figures in 2022. The Health Department normally issues a report on heat-related fatalities each week, but in June  at the height of the heat wave  it skipped a week, for reasons that remain unclear.

The deaths reached a peak in the week of June 18-24, with 69 deaths in one week nationwide, an unprecedented number. Temperatures in some parts of Mexico have risen to over 105 degrees Fahrenheit (40 degrees Celsius) in recent weeks. The week of June 11-17 was also unusually bad, with 31 deaths across the country.

So far this year, the largest number of deaths from heatstroke and dehydration have occurred in the northern border state of Nuevo Leon, home to the industrial hub of Monterrey. President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador claimed last week that mounting reports of heat deaths were untrue, and were part of a media campaign against his administration. There is an alarmist, yellow-journalism trend, Lopez Obrador said, citing lower death figures that were already outdated at that time. The high number of heat-related deaths appeared to be due in part not only to high temperatures, but to a delay in the onset of seasonal rains that normally come to Mexico in mid-June and tend to cool things off a bit.
Arizona Metals (CVE:AMC  Free Report) had its price objective cut by Scotiabank from C$8.00 to C$6.75 in a research note published on Wednesday morning, BayStreet.CA reports.

Arizona Metals Price Performance

Shares of Arizona Metals stock opened at C$3.99 on Wednesday. The businesss fifty day moving average price is C$3.99 and its two-hundred day moving average price is C$3.99. The company has a market capitalization of C$446.17 million and a P/E ratio of -16.49. Arizona Metals has a 1-year low of C$3.42 and a 1-year high of C$6.98.

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Insider Buying and Selling at Arizona Metals

In other Arizona Metals news, Director Paul Gregory Reid bought 10,000 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction on Thursday, June 29th. The shares were purchased at an average price of C$3.08 per share, with a total value of C$30,800.00.

Arizona Metals Company Profile

Arizona Metals Corp. operates as a mineral exploration company. The company primarily explores for copper, gold, zinc, and silver deposits. It owns 100% interests in the Kay mine project, which consists of approximately 1,300 acres of patented and BLM claims located in Yavapai County, Arizona; and the Sugarloaf Peak Gold project that comprises 4,400 acres of BLM claims situated in La Paz County, Arizona.

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Shares of Lazard Ltd (NYSE:LAZ  Free Report) have been assigned a consensus rating of Hold from the five brokerages that are covering the company, Marketbeat.com reports. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a sell recommendation, two have issued a hold recommendation and two have assigned a buy recommendation to the company. The average 1 year price objective among brokerages that have issued ratings on the stock in the last year is $39.80.

A number of research analysts have recently issued reports on LAZ shares. StockNews.com assumed coverage on shares of Lazard in a research report on Thursday, May 18th. They issued a hold rating on the stock. Morgan Stanley raised shares of Lazard from an underweight rating to an equal weight rating and boosted their target price for the stock from $29.00 to $36.00 in a research report on Wednesday, April 12th. Finally, TheStreet downgraded shares of Lazard from a b rating to a c rating in a research report on Friday, April 28th.

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Institutional Trading of Lazard

A number of hedge funds and other institutional investors have recently made changes to their positions in the business. Brandywine Global Investment Management LLC increased its stake in shares of Lazard by 29.5% in the first quarter. Brandywine Global Investment Management LLC now owns 322,747 shares of the asset managers stock worth $10,686,000 after acquiring an additional 73,613 shares during the period. Toroso Investments LLC boosted its holdings in Lazard by 5.5% during the first quarter. Toroso Investments LLC now owns 12,013 shares of the asset managers stock worth $398,000 after buying an additional 631 shares in the last quarter. JPMorgan Chase & Co. boosted its holdings in Lazard by 170.5% during the first quarter. JPMorgan Chase & Co. now owns 363,054 shares of the asset managers stock worth $12,020,000 after buying an additional 228,826 shares in the last quarter. Third Avenue Management LLC boosted its holdings in Lazard by 20.1% during the first quarter. Third Avenue Management LLC now owns 547,950 shares of the asset managers stock worth $18,143,000 after buying an additional 91,664 shares in the last quarter. Finally, State Street Corp boosted its holdings in Lazard by 7.3% during the first quarter. State Street Corp now owns 2,037,301 shares of the asset managers stock worth $67,455,000 after buying an additional 137,734 shares in the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 55.74% of the companys stock.

Lazard Stock Up 1.5 %

Shares of Lazard stock opened at $32.00 on Tuesday. The firms 50 day moving average price is $30.29 and its 200-day moving average price is $34.08. The company has a quick ratio of 1.63, a current ratio of 1.63 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 3.32. Lazard has a 52-week low of $27.71 and a 52-week high of $43.44. The company has a market cap of $3.61 billion, a P/E ratio of 14.88 and a beta of 1.39.

Lazard (NYSE:LAZ  Free Report) last issued its quarterly earnings data on Friday, April 28th. The asset manager reported ($0.26) earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of $0.30 by ($0.56). Lazard had a return on equity of 36.72% and a net margin of 8.20%. The firm had revenue of $561.20 million during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $549.62 million. During the same period in the previous year, the firm earned $1.05 EPS. The firms quarterly revenue was down 21.6% on a year-over-year basis. On average, sell-side analysts predict that Lazard will post 0.88 EPS for the current fiscal year.

Lazard Dividend Announcement

The firm also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, May 19th. Stockholders of record on Monday, May 8th were paid a $0.50 dividend. The ex-dividend date was Friday, May 5th. This represents a $2.00 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 6.25%. Lazards payout ratio is currently 93.02%.

Lazard Company Profile

(Free Report

Lazard Ltd, together with its subsidiaries, operates as a financial advisory and asset management firm in North America, Europe, Asia, Australia, and Central and South America. It operates in two segments, Financial Advisory and Asset Management. The Financial Advisory segment offers various financial advisory services regarding mergers and acquisitions, restructurings, capital advisory, shareholder advisory, capital raising, sovereign advisory, and other strategic advisory matters.

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Synovus Financial Corp. (NYSE:SNV  Free Report)  Research analysts at DA Davidson decreased their FY2023 earnings per share estimates for Synovus Financial in a research report issued on Tuesday, June 27th. DA Davidson analyst K. Fitzsimmons now anticipates that the bank will earn $4.62 per share for the year, down from their prior estimate of $4.96. The consensus estimate for Synovus Financials current full-year earnings is $4.59 per share. DA Davidson also issued estimates for Synovus Financials FY2024 earnings at $4.33 EPS.

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Synovus Financial (NYSE:SNV  Free Report) last posted its quarterly earnings results on Wednesday, April 19th. The bank reported $1.33 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $1.22 by $0.11. Synovus Financial had a return on equity of 19.92% and a net margin of 28.04%. The company had revenue of $613.90 million for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $589.40 million. During the same quarter last year, the company earned $1.08 EPS. Synovus Financials revenue for the quarter was up 23.1% compared to the same quarter last year.

Synovus Financial Stock Down 0.7 %

SNV has been the subject of several other reports. The Goldman Sachs Group decreased their price objective on shares of Synovus Financial from $46.00 to $39.00 and set a neutral rating for the company in a research report on Thursday, March 30th. Janney Montgomery Scott raised Synovus Financial from a neutral rating to a buy rating and set a $38.00 price target for the company in a report on Monday, April 24th. UBS Group increased their price objective on Synovus Financial from $31.00 to $33.00 in a report on Tuesday, April 25th. Royal Bank of Canada decreased their target price on Synovus Financial from $42.00 to $40.00 and set an outperform rating for the company in a research note on Friday, April 21st. Finally, Raymond James lowered their price target on Synovus Financial from $46.00 to $36.00 and set an outperform rating for the company in a report on Thursday, April 6th. Four equities research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and five have issued a buy rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, the company presently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $40.04.

Shares of Synovus Financial stock opened at $30.25 on Friday. The company has a quick ratio of 0.93, a current ratio of 0.94 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.22. Synovus Financial has a 52-week low of $25.19 and a 52-week high of $44.91. The company has a market capitalization of $4.42 billion, a P/E ratio of 5.86, a P/E/G ratio of 2.20 and a beta of 1.34. The company has a 50 day moving average of $29.04 and a 200 day moving average of $33.98.

Synovus Financial Announces Dividend

The firm also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, July 3rd. Investors of record on Thursday, June 15th will be given a $0.38 dividend. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Wednesday, June 14th. This represents a $1.52 annualized dividend and a yield of 5.02%. Synovus Financials dividend payout ratio (DPR) is 29.46%.

Insider Buying and Selling

In related news, CFO Andrew J. Jr. Gregory purchased 2,000 shares of the stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, May 1st. The shares were purchased at an average price of $30.33 per share, with a total value of $60,660.00. Following the completion of the acquisition, the chief financial officer now directly owns 28,809 shares in the company, valued at approximately $873,776.97. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is available at this hyperlink. In other news, CFO Andrew J. Jr. Gregory acquired 2,000 shares of the stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, May 1st. The shares were purchased at an average cost of $30.33 per share, for a total transaction of $60,660.00. Following the transaction, the chief financial officer now directly owns 28,809 shares in the company, valued at approximately $873,776.97. The acquisition was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at this hyperlink. Also, EVP Daniel Zachary Bishop acquired 1,000 shares of the companys stock in a transaction on Friday, May 5th. The stock was purchased at an average cost of $27.96 per share, for a total transaction of $27,960.00. Following the completion of the purchase, the executive vice president now directly owns 32,541 shares in the company, valued at approximately $909,846.36. The disclosure for this purchase can be found here. Insiders acquired a total of 11,375 shares of company stock worth $309,411 in the last 90 days. Company insiders own 1.60% of the companys stock.

Institutional Investors Weigh In On Synovus Financial

A number of hedge funds have recently added to or reduced their stakes in SNV. Verus Capital Partners LLC grew its stake in shares of Synovus Financial by 8,691.3% during the 3rd quarter. Verus Capital Partners LLC now owns 10,110 shares of the banks stock worth $379,000 after purchasing an additional 9,995 shares during the period. Retirement Systems of Alabama lifted its position in shares of Synovus Financial by 0.3% during the 4th quarter. Retirement Systems of Alabama now owns 495,717 shares of the banks stock valued at $18,614,000 after acquiring an additional 1,401 shares during the period. Bahl & Gaynor Inc. purchased a new stake in shares of Synovus Financial during the 4th quarter worth approximately $258,000. Welch Group LLC grew its holdings in shares of Synovus Financial by 0.7% in the 1st quarter. Welch Group LLC now owns 63,018 shares of the banks stock worth $1,943,000 after acquiring an additional 428 shares during the period. Finally, Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Public School Empls Retrmt SYS increased its stake in Synovus Financial by 13.5% in the 4th quarter. Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Public School Empls Retrmt SYS now owns 65,436 shares of the banks stock valued at $2,457,000 after purchasing an additional 7,799 shares in the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 78.37% of the companys stock.

Synovus Financial Company Profile

(Free Report)

Synovus Financial Corp. operates as the bank holding company for Synovus Bank that provides commercial and consumer banking products and services. It operates through four segments: Community Banking, Wholesale Banking, Consumer Banking, and Financial Management Services. The company's commercial banking services include treasury and asset management, capital market, and institutional trust services, as well as commercial, financial, and real estate loans.

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Capital One Financial started coverage on shares of Helmerich & Payne (NYSE:HP  Free Report) in a research report sent to investors on Wednesday, The Fly reports. The brokerage issued an equal weight rating and a $40.00 price objective on the oil and gas companys stock. Capital One Financial also issued estimates for Helmerich & Paynes Q3 2024 earnings at $0.92 EPS, Q4 2024 earnings at $0.97 EPS, FY2024 earnings at $3.50 EPS, Q1 2025 earnings at $1.01 EPS, Q2 2025 earnings at $1.03 EPS and FY2025 earnings at $4.53 EPS.

A number of other analysts also recently issued reports on the stock. Susquehanna cut their price objective on shares of Helmerich & Payne from $45.00 to $40.00 in a report on Friday, June 2nd. Citigroup dropped their price objective on Helmerich & Payne from $42.00 to $33.00 in a report on Friday, May 19th. The Goldman Sachs Group decreased their target price on shares of Helmerich & Payne from $44.00 to $38.00 and set a sell rating on the stock in a report on Monday, March 27th. VNET Group reaffirmed a maintains rating on shares of Helmerich & Payne in a report on Friday, May 19th. Finally, Morgan Stanley downgraded Helmerich & Payne from an equal weight rating to an underweight rating and reduced their target price for the company from $60.00 to $45.00 in a report on Tuesday, April 18th. Two equities research analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, four have assigned a hold rating and six have assigned a buy rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat, Helmerich & Payne presently has a consensus rating of Hold and a consensus price target of $51.00.

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Helmerich & Payne Stock Performance

Shares of HP stock opened at $35.45 on Wednesday. The company has a market capitalization of $3.64 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 11.66 and a beta of 1.66. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.20, a quick ratio of 2.19 and a current ratio of 2.43. The company has a 50-day simple moving average of $33.23 and a 200 day simple moving average of $39.60. Helmerich & Payne has a 52 week low of $30.41 and a 52 week high of $54.45.

Helmerich & Payne Dividend Announcement

Helmerich & Payne ( NYSE:HP Free Report ) last released its quarterly earnings results on Wednesday, April 26th. The oil and gas company reported $1.26 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $1.05 by $0.21. Helmerich & Payne had a return on equity of 11.93% and a net margin of 12.15%. The business had revenue of $769.22 million during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $741.49 million. On average, sell-side analysts predict that Helmerich & Payne will post 4.15 earnings per share for the current year.

The company also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Thursday, August 31st. Stockholders of record on Thursday, August 17th will be issued a dividend of $0.485 per share. This represents a $1.94 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 5.47%. The ex-dividend date is Wednesday, August 16th. Helmerich & Paynes dividend payout ratio (DPR) is currently 32.89%.

Hedge Funds Weigh In On Helmerich & Payne

A number of hedge funds have recently modified their holdings of the business. JPMorgan Chase & Co. increased its position in Helmerich & Payne by 2.2% in the 1st quarter. JPMorgan Chase & Co. now owns 328,890 shares of the oil and gas companys stock valued at $14,071,000 after buying an additional 7,160 shares in the last quarter. Raymond James & Associates raised its holdings in Helmerich & Payne by 3.9% during the first quarter. Raymond James & Associates now owns 18,667 shares of the oil and gas companys stock worth $799,000 after buying an additional 709 shares during the last quarter. Cambridge Investment Research Advisors Inc. bought a new position in shares of Helmerich & Payne in the first quarter valued at $353,000. HighTower Advisors LLC increased its position in shares of Helmerich & Payne by 4.2% during the first quarter. HighTower Advisors LLC now owns 18,629 shares of the oil and gas companys stock worth $799,000 after acquiring an additional 743 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Private Advisor Group LLC bought a new stake in Helmerich & Payne during the 1st quarter worth approximately $272,000. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 93.88% of the companys stock.

Helmerich & Payne Company Profile

(Free Report)

Founded in 1920, Helmerich & Payne, Inc (H&P) (NYSE: HP) is committed to delivering industry leading levels of drilling productivity and reliability. H&P operates with the highest level of integrity, safety and innovation to deliver superior results for its customers and returns for shareholders.

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Hengan International Group Company Limited (OTCMKTS:HEGIF  Free Report) was the target of a significant decline in short interest in June. As of June 15th, there was short interest totalling 1,040,200 shares, a decline of 51.4% from the May 31st total of 2,139,300 shares. Based on an average trading volume of 3,600 shares, the short-interest ratio is presently 288.9 days.

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

Separately, JPMorgan Chase & Co. raised shares of Hengan International Group from a neutral rating to an overweight rating in a report on Wednesday, May 17th.

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Hengan International Group Price Performance

Shares of HEGIF stock remained flat at $4.22 during trading hours on Friday. The firm has a 50-day moving average price of $4.54 and a two-hundred day moving average price of $4.70. Hengan International Group has a one year low of $3.90 and a one year high of $5.20.

About Hengan International Group

Hengan International Group Company Limited, an investment holding company, manufactures, distributes, and sells personal hygiene products in the People's Republic of China and internationally. The company offers pocket handkerchiefs, box and soft tissue papers, kitchen towels/papers, toilet rolls, first-aid products, enema, garbage and food bags, preservation papers, table cloths and disposable toilet brush, sanitary napkins, pantiliners, overnight pants, wet tissues, maternal and child care products, adult and baby diapers, and cleansing products.

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Aviva (OTCMKTS:AVVIY  Free Report) was upgraded by research analysts at HSBC from a hold rating to a buy rating in a report released on Friday, The Fly reports.

A number of other analysts have also issued reports on AVVIY. JPMorgan Chase & Co. dropped their price objective on shares of Aviva from GBX 545 ($6.93) to GBX 535 ($6.80) in a research note on Thursday, May 25th. Barclays lowered their target price on Aviva from GBX 560 ($7.12) to GBX 545 ($6.93) in a research note on Friday, March 10th. Finally, Berenberg Bank cut their price target on Aviva from GBX 546 ($6.94) to GBX 532 ($6.76) in a research note on Thursday, May 25th.

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Aviva Trading Up 2.4 %

Shares of OTCMKTS:AVVIY opened at $10.07 on Friday. The businesss 50-day simple moving average is $10.23 and its 200 day simple moving average is $10.50. Aviva has a one year low of $8.05 and a one year high of $11.39.

Aviva Company Profile

Aviva plc provides various insurance, retirement, investment, and savings products in the United Kingdom, Ireland, Canada, and internationally. The company offers life insurance, long-term health and accident insurance, savings, pension, and annuity products, as well as pension fund business and lifetime mortgage products.

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Hugoton Royalty Trust (OTCMKTS:HGTXU  Free Report) was the recipient of a significant decline in short interest during the month of June. As of June 15th, there was short interest totalling 53,600 shares, a decline of 59.5% from the May 31st total of 132,300 shares. Based on an average daily trading volume, of 134,200 shares, the days-to-cover ratio is currently 0.4 days.

Hugoton Royalty Trust Stock Up 5.9 %

Hugoton Royalty Trust stock traded up $0.05 during midday trading on Friday, hitting $0.90. The stock had a trading volume of 63,647 shares, compared to its average volume of 77,174. Hugoton Royalty Trust has a 12 month low of $0.75 and a 12 month high of $3.30. The business has a fifty day moving average price of $1.17 and a 200 day moving average price of $1.56.

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Hugoton Royalty Trust (OTCMKTS:HGTXU  Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings data on Friday, May 12th. The company reported $0.25 earnings per share for the quarter. The firm had revenue of $10.48 million during the quarter.

Hugoton Royalty Trust Cuts Dividend

About Hugoton Royalty Trust

The business also recently announced a dividend, which will be paid on Monday, July 17th. Shareholders of record on Friday, June 30th will be paid a $0.0007 dividend. The ex-dividend date is Thursday, June 29th. This represents a yield of 0.76%.

(Free Report)

Hugoton Royalty Trust operates as an express trust in the United States. It holds 80% net profits interests in various natural gas producing working interest properties in Kansas, Oklahoma, and Wyoming under conveyances. The company was founded in 1998 and is based in Dallas, Texas.

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KeyCorp (NYSE:KEY  Free Report)  Equities research analysts at Zacks Research decreased their Q2 2023 EPS estimates for KeyCorp in a research note issued on Wednesday, June 28th. Zacks Research analyst S. Shah now expects that the financial services provider will post earnings per share of $0.31 for the quarter, down from their prior estimate of $0.34. The consensus estimate for KeyCorps current full-year earnings is $1.49 per share. Zacks Research also issued estimates for KeyCorps Q3 2023 earnings at $0.32 EPS, Q1 2024 earnings at $0.34 EPS, Q4 2024 earnings at $0.39 EPS, Q1 2025 earnings at $0.42 EPS and FY2025 earnings at $1.63 EPS.

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KeyCorp (NYSE:KEY  Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, April 20th. The financial services provider reported $0.44 earnings per share for the quarter, meeting analysts consensus estimates of $0.44. KeyCorp had a net margin of 19.09% and a return on equity of 15.63%. The company had revenue of $1.71 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $1.80 billion. During the same period last year, the firm earned $0.45 earnings per share. The firms revenue was up 1.1% on a year-over-year basis.

KeyCorp Stock Down 1.0 %

A number of other research firms have also weighed in on KEY. Wells Fargo & Company dropped their price target on shares of KeyCorp from $20.00 to $17.00 and set an overweight rating on the stock in a research report on Friday, April 21st. JPMorgan Chase & Co. decreased their price objective on shares of KeyCorp from $11.00 to $10.50 in a report on Thursday. DA Davidson decreased their price objective on shares of KeyCorp from $16.00 to $15.00 and set a buy rating for the company in a report on Friday, April 21st. Keefe, Bruyette & Woods decreased their price objective on shares of KeyCorp from $20.00 to $19.00 and set a market perform rating for the company in a report on Wednesday, March 8th. Finally, Piper Sandler reduced their target price on shares of KeyCorp from $13.50 to $11.50 in a research note on Thursday, June 15th. Two equities research analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, six have assigned a hold rating and seven have issued a buy rating to the company. According to MarketBeat, the stock has an average rating of Hold and an average price target of $14.93.

KEY opened at $9.24 on Friday. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.92, a current ratio of 0.86 and a quick ratio of 0.86. The companys 50-day moving average is $9.96 and its 200 day moving average is $14.00. KeyCorp has a fifty-two week low of $8.53 and a fifty-two week high of $20.30. The firm has a market capitalization of $8.64 billion, a P/E ratio of 5.22, a PEG ratio of 1.46 and a beta of 1.25.

Institutional Trading of KeyCorp

Hedge funds and other institutional investors have recently modified their holdings of the business. Continental Investors Services Inc. purchased a new stake in shares of KeyCorp in the 3rd quarter worth about $221,000. Boothbay Fund Management LLC purchased a new stake in shares of KeyCorp in the 3rd quarter worth about $271,000. Teacher Retirement System of Texas grew its position in shares of KeyCorp by 19.7% in the 4th quarter. Teacher Retirement System of Texas now owns 256,989 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $4,477,000 after buying an additional 42,243 shares during the period. Pathstone Family Office LLC boosted its stake in KeyCorp by 1.3% in the 3rd quarter. Pathstone Family Office LLC now owns 97,440 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $1,568,000 after purchasing an additional 1,260 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Quadrant Capital Group LLC boosted its stake in KeyCorp by 24.5% in the 4th quarter. Quadrant Capital Group LLC now owns 8,836 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $154,000 after purchasing an additional 1,739 shares in the last quarter. 79.69% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

Insider Buying and Selling at KeyCorp

In related news, insider Victor B. Alexander bought 8,500 shares of the companys stock in a transaction on Friday, April 21st. The stock was acquired at an average cost of $11.83 per share, for a total transaction of $100,555.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the insider now directly owns 117,196 shares in the company, valued at approximately $1,386,428.68. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at this hyperlink. In related news, insider Andrew J. Paine III acquired 75,000 shares of KeyCorp stock in a transaction on Wednesday, May 3rd. The shares were acquired at an average cost of $9.78 per share, with a total value of $733,500.00. Following the transaction, the insider now owns 335,414 shares in the company, valued at $3,280,348.92. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is available through this hyperlink. Also, insider Victor B. Alexander bought 8,500 shares of KeyCorp stock in a transaction dated Friday, April 21st. The stock was acquired at an average cost of $11.83 per share, for a total transaction of $100,555.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the insider now directly owns 117,196 shares in the company, valued at $1,386,428.68. The disclosure for this purchase can be found here. Insiders purchased a total of 85,700 shares of company stock worth $857,507 over the last three months. 0.61% of the stock is owned by insiders.

KeyCorp Dividend Announcement

The business also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Thursday, June 15th. Shareholders of record on Tuesday, May 30th were given a dividend of $0.205 per share. The ex-dividend date was Friday, May 26th. This represents a $0.82 annualized dividend and a yield of 8.87%. KeyCorps payout ratio is presently 46.33%.

KeyCorp Company Profile

(Free Report)

KeyCorp operates as the holding company for KeyBank National Association that provides various retail and commercial banking products and services in the United States. It operates in two segments, Consumer Bank and Commercial Bank. The company offers various deposits, investment products and services; and personal finance and financial wellness, student loan refinancing, mortgage and home equity, lending, credit card, treasury, business advisory, wealth management, asset management, investment, cash management, portfolio management, and trust and related services to individuals and small and medium-sized businesses.

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Phil Rumore thought he had escaped.

The 81-year-old longtime Buffalo Teachers Federation president believed he dodged any ceremonial recognition for his four decades leading one of Buffalos largest unions, which ended Friday.

For a man with an outspoken dislike for his own birthday, he intended to depart his professional role with minimal fanfare, declining to attend the June school board meeting to receive an award.

Instead, a few days before his retirement, he penned a letter of gratitude to the board and later accepted a personalized plaque of a buffalo at his West Side office.

Hed given away most of his trademark duck figurines and removed the pictures of Albert Einstein from his office, but had a few appointments prior to his last day.

Thursday morning, he agreed to introduce incoming union president Rich Nigro to Buffalo Schools Superintendent Tonja M. Williams. It was not the small meeting he and his union vice president, Rebecca Pordum, expected.

School board members and administrators all showed up for a final farewell, sharing their appreciation for Rumores efforts, even if they sometimes clashed.

Rumore, clearly touched by the gesture, shed a few tears when recounting the surprise during an interview that afternoon with The Buffalo News. He quickly pulled it together, then groused about the attention.

Im still mad at the superintendent, he said.

That quick sense of humor, and his quirks, belie the fireworks he often ignited during his 42 years at the helm of the BTF as he aimed to bolster the effectiveness of Buffalo teachers, regardless of adversaries he made along the way.

Spending 90 minutes with Rumore on the eve of his retirement shined little light on union achievements during his 21 two-year terms, or amplified final words against those with whom he sometimes clashed.

Instead, he mused about why the speed of light must be squared in Albert Einsteins formula for energy, what he was going to do with 10 authenticated wizard plaques sitting by his window, and how he was excited to eat oysters Rockefeller at the Remington Tavern in North Tonawanda.

End of an era: Philip Rumore to step down as Buffalo Teachers Federation president Buffalo Teachers Federation President Philip Rumore announced Wednesday in a letter to teachers that he will step down from the role he has held since 1981 and retire.

Rumore would begin to answer a question about his mission to keep class sizes low in Buffalo but quickly veered to how he hitchhiked to Kentucky as a high school sophomore because he wanted to see bluegrass. Discussing what made Rumore tick sent him spiraling into how he recently learned he has Sicilian roots.

People keep asking, What do I think my legacy is? Rumore said. I have no idea.

A fierce advocate

RUMORE OUT OF JAIL, DEFENDS TEACHERS STRIKE In a jailhouse interview, Philip Rumore said that city teachers would still be without a new contract if they had not gone on strike and that the school districts bargaining stance was driven by a desire to put the BTF in its place. Rumore gave the interview on Thursday afternoon, and he was released from jail at 7 a.m.

Rumore could be a powerful ally or, especially to someone with an agenda against teachers, a relentless thorn. If he believed he wanted something, he would go to great lengths to achieve it.

Ive always viewed things as a challenge, Rumore said. Tell me that I cant do it  thats like waving a red flag in front of me. Just stand back.

You cant talk about Rumore as union leader without mentioning his 15-day jail sentence at the Erie County Correctional Facility for organizing an illegal strike in 2000. In his jailhouse interview with The Buffalo News, Rumore insisted that a pair of one-day strikes by teachers was the turning point in sealing a new contract, which the superintendent at the time contested.

More than 20 years later, the incarceration is a punchline.

When I got out for good behavior, my mom said, Im glad youre out, but that you got out for good behavior is very surprising to me,  said Rumore last week. He said he still has the ratty sweatshirt he was given in jail.

His critics argue that settling five contracts over 42 years is not a sterling ratio, but Rumore believes his stubbornness paid off, especially in his final contract, when a growing contingent of teachers pressured him to come to terms.

We didnt get everything until the last three weeks, Rumore said, referring to higher retroactive pay for years at impasse and removal of salary steps so teachers could more quickly reach maximum salary.

The newest contract gives Buffalo teachers the second-highest starting salary in Western New York.

Even mentioning aspects of his career that his critics praised prompted a shrug.

Parent advocate Samuel Radford III, who noted his only communication for years with Rumore was through combative headlines in The Buffalo News, described the unions 2000 contract as a stroke of brilliance, progressive enough that it could stand for 12 years.

Rumore said, It was a good contract, but we didnt have any choice because at that time we went to court against the district  we were in court for 10 years.

Limiting class size was an accomplishment, Rumore admitted, even if he believes classes are still too large. That quest was as much against the district as it was against the law; its illegal to negotiate fixed class-size limits, so the union developed a system where teachers would get paid more money for each student above a set maximum.

Our kids need individualized attention, Rumore said last week. This is the way you can reach more children. Thats always been a high priority for us.

Acting upon teacher demands for safer schools; ensuring students receive art, music and physical education; and aggressive lobbying for state aid were among other topics that permeated Rumores reign.

Were the ones who got that Foundation Aid done with the governor, he said.

Rumore also was active in endeavors he believed would help the district as a whole, not just teachers. He embraced the 2011 formation of Say Yes Buffalo and its partnership with Buffalo Public Schools, which has blossomed to help students overcome opportunity gaps and grapple with mental health challenges.

'They're ready to go': Say Yes Buffalo debuts Little Scholars for 3-year-olds of families in need Officials assembled for a ribbon-cutting to celebrate the start of Say Yes Buffalo's Little Scholars, a preschool program for 3-year-olds that intends to break down barriers, reduce opportunity gaps and help children acclimate to a classroom.

He understood that all students have potential and not everyone has the opportunity, said David Rust, Say Yes executive director.

Rumore called Say Yes a wonderful program, and he urged Buffalo Schools to cultivate more community partners. He recalled an early exchange in which Say Yes leadership nervously made its pitch for teachers support.

They came in here and told me later on, When we went in, we were thinking, There goes this program, hes not going to agree to it all.

Until recently, Rumore served on Say Yes operating committee.

A polarizing force

To the state teachers union, Rumore has been an ardent advocate for Buffalo teachers and students, wielding tactics that frustrated those with whom he negotiated but were necessary to get teachers what they deserved.

Andy Pallotta, in his final days as president of New York State United Teachers, said he and Rumore shared a confrontational spirit and believed Rumores critics did not understand his role.

Talking about bulls is not the same as being in the bulls ring, Pallotta said, citing a Spanish proverb. The state union leader extolled Rumore for being a constant presence and harboring a deep well of institutional knowledge, which helped him negotiate raises and benefits for teachers in a struggling, postindustrial city.

Well never see anyone like him again, added Joe Cantafio, WNY Regional staff director for NYSUT, whose staff worked closely with Rumore for decades. His heart and soul, his entire life was the BTF.

Few questioned Rumores longevity and dedication, but many questioned his approach.

Detractors  including some former school board members, superintendents and parent leaders  have called him an obstructionist, claiming his stubbornness set back public education in Buffalo. They complained about his frequent pursuit of lawsuits and grievances, as well as his unwillingness to compromise.

Education around the world is changing rapidly, said Larry Quinn, a former Buffalo School Board member. BPS primary flaw is being resistant to change. Phils been the architect of the system, and as a leader, thats a great detriment.

Another Voice: Quinn's articles unfair to teachers and their union By Philip Rumore Larry Quinns personal attacks on the Buffalo Teachers Federation and me, eagerly printed by The News, are to be expected from the person who wrongly predicted that our last contract recommended by the superintendent and the districts negotiating team was unaffordable. He was no doubt embarrassed to know that the district increased its reserves from 2017

Quinn, who served from 2014 to 2019, described the unions power over the school district. Prospective school board members would vie for endorsement from the Buffalo Teachers Federation, and whoever the union supported almost always won a seat, thanks to the might of more than 3,500 members.

One of Radfords recent successes was advocating for New York to move school board elections from May until November to coincide with political elections, in order to reduce the influence the teachers union has on the outcome.

Rumore remains unhappy about that.

Quinn maintained some of Rumores fights  against teacher assessments, in favor of seniority-based hires and clinging to the controversial cosmetic surgery rider removed in 2016  were about power.

He aggressively fought any change. I cant think of anything he didnt fight, Quinn said. The ones that suffered the most were the kids.

Growth and respect

Rumore said collaboration kept him interested in staying on as president.

The most important thing that kept me here was the challenge and the reward of being able to work with people to accomplish something, he said.

Clashes with figures including Quinn and Radford dwindled in Rumores final terms.

He spoke civilly in front of the school board and prodded the district through regular pickets and by leading a walkout of a school board meeting. His messages were sent through votes of no confidence in superintendents, not verbal barrages.

The union president said he began to handle difficult discussions through personal phone calls instead of public confrontations  something his targets wished hed done earlier.

BTF, parents picket Regents home in protest over state standards, tests Picket of Robert Bennetts home is part of national Day of Action organized by teachers unions. NYSUT is calling for more money for public schools, a de-emphasis of standardized tests, and 3-year moratorium on high-stakes consequences tied to

Robert M. Bennett, local representative for the State Education Board of Regents, wasnt home when Rumore and teachers picketed his private residence in 2013 to protest state standards.

A phone call would have sufficed, Bennett said at the time. If Phil wanted to talk to me or yell at me, he could have just picked up the phone.

Radford, no stranger to shouting matches with Rumore, said he respects the outgoing president and understands their fights were never personal, though Radford still holds that the teachers union didnt play fair, they always played to win.

We butted heads, but if I were a teacher, I would have voted for him, said Radford, who previously led the District Parent Coordinating Council. When I was president of the DPCC, he forced us to be better.

The last thing Rumore removed from his office was the ashes of his mother, Louise Kunze Rumore, who raised her son by herself in Queens after divorcing when Rumore was 2 years old.

Rumore described his relationship with his mother as not particularly affectionate but instructive for how he lived. His rebellious streak and divergent pursuits were balanced by his loyalty to her. When he would run away from home, hed still tell his mother where he was going.

Her commitment to working hard, first as a publishers secretary and later as a dental assistant, fueled Rumore to lead 3,800 teachers past his 80th birthday.

As my mom always told me, he said, if you believe in something strongly, youve got to stick with it.

The days of returning home at 7 p.m. to a thawed Wegmans dinner after working 12 hours began to wear on Rumore, especially during the thick of the most recent negotiations. He realized he had not really been able to enjoy his home.

Its time to just start looking around, Rumore said, and enjoying life a little bit.
Alimentation Couche-Tard (TSE:ATD  Free Report) had its price objective boosted by Stifel Nicolaus from C$74.00 to C$76.00 in a research note published on Thursday morning, BayStreet.CA reports.

Several other analysts have also recently commented on the company. National Bankshares boosted their price target on Alimentation Couche-Tard from C$71.00 to C$74.00 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a research report on Thursday. JPMorgan Chase & Co. boosted their price target on Alimentation Couche-Tard from C$54.00 to C$66.00 in a research report on Monday, March 6th. Royal Bank of Canada upped their target price on Alimentation Couche-Tard from C$85.00 to C$87.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a report on Wednesday, June 7th. CIBC upped their target price on Alimentation Couche-Tard from C$73.00 to C$76.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a report on Friday, March 17th. Finally, TD Securities upped their target price on Alimentation Couche-Tard from C$74.00 to C$76.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a report on Thursday. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a hold rating, five have issued a buy rating and one has given a strong buy rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat.com, the stock currently has a consensus rating of Buy and a consensus target price of C$73.69.

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Alimentation Couche-Tard Price Performance

Alimentation Couche-Tard stock opened at C$67.93 on Thursday. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 77.54, a current ratio of 1.16 and a quick ratio of 0.88. Alimentation Couche-Tard has a 12 month low of C$50.21 and a 12 month high of C$68.90. The stock has a market capitalization of C$66.66 billion, a PE ratio of 18.16, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 1.35 and a beta of 0.92. The business has a 50 day simple moving average of C$66.30 and a 200-day simple moving average of C$64.35.

Alimentation Couche-Tard Dividend Announcement

Alimentation Couche-Tard ( TSE:ATD Free Report ) last issued its quarterly earnings results on Tuesday, June 27th. The company reported C$0.96 EPS for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of C$0.60 by C$0.36. Alimentation Couche-Tard had a return on equity of 23.28% and a net margin of 4.02%. The firm had revenue of C$22.06 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of C$20.97 billion. On average, analysts anticipate that Alimentation Couche-Tard will post 3.8010061 EPS for the current fiscal year.

The firm also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, July 21st. Stockholders of record on Friday, July 7th will be paid a $0.14 dividend. This represents a $0.56 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 0.82%. The ex-dividend date is Thursday, July 6th. Alimentation Couche-Tards dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 14.97%.

Alimentation Couche-Tard Company Profile

(Free Report)

Alimentation Couche-Tard Inc operates and licenses convenience stores in North America, Europe, and Asia. Its convenience stores sell tobacco products and alternative tobacco products, grocery items, candies and snacks, beer, wine, beverages, and fresh food offerings; road transportation fuels and electric vehicle charging solutions; and aviation fuels, as well as energy for stationary engines.

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Compania de Minas Buenaventura S.A.A. (NYSE:BVN  Free Report) was upgraded by research analysts at StockNews.com from a sell rating to a hold rating in a report released on Friday.

Separately, Morgan Stanley decreased their price target on shares of Compania de Minas Buenaventura S.A.A. from $9.30 to $8.60 in a research note on Wednesday, June 21st.

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Compania de Minas Buenaventura S.A.A. Stock Performance

Shares of BVN opened at $7.35 on Friday. The businesss 50 day moving average is $7.16 and its 200 day moving average is $7.65. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.22, a current ratio of 1.72 and a quick ratio of 1.45. Compania de Minas Buenaventura S.A.A. has a 12-month low of $5.09 and a 12-month high of $8.73.

Hedge Funds Weigh In On Compania de Minas Buenaventura S.A.A.

Compania de Minas Buenaventura S.A.A. ( NYSE:BVN Free Report ) last announced its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, April 27th. The mining company reported $0.25 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $0.17 by $0.08. Compania de Minas Buenaventura S.A.A. had a net margin of 9.29% and a return on equity of 2.31%. The business had revenue of $185.50 million during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $185.52 million. Equities research analysts expect that Compania de Minas Buenaventura S.A.A. will post 0.57 EPS for the current fiscal year.

Institutional investors have recently bought and sold shares of the business. Van ECK Associates Corp increased its position in Compania de Minas Buenaventura S.A.A. by 9.3% during the first quarter. Van ECK Associates Corp now owns 27,436,975 shares of the mining companys stock valued at $224,434,000 after acquiring an additional 2,337,772 shares during the last quarter. ETF Managers Group LLC bought a new position in Compania de Minas Buenaventura S.A.A. during the 1st quarter valued at about $18,307,000. JPMorgan Chase & Co. grew its holdings in Compania de Minas Buenaventura S.A.A. by 1,390.0% during the 1st quarter. JPMorgan Chase & Co. now owns 991,322 shares of the mining companys stock valued at $8,109,000 after purchasing an additional 924,791 shares during the last quarter. Bank of America Corp DE raised its position in Compania de Minas Buenaventura S.A.A. by 234.1% in the 4th quarter. Bank of America Corp DE now owns 979,259 shares of the mining companys stock worth $7,295,000 after purchasing an additional 686,155 shares during the period. Finally, BlackRock Inc. boosted its position in shares of Compania de Minas Buenaventura S.A.A. by 4.4% during the third quarter. BlackRock Inc. now owns 15,531,799 shares of the mining companys stock valued at $104,529,000 after buying an additional 660,711 shares during the period.

Compania de Minas Buenaventura S.A.A. Company Profile

(Free Report)

Compania de Minas Buenaventura SAA. engages in the exploration, mining, concentration, smelting, and marketing of polymetallic ores and metals in Peru, the United States, Asia, and Europe. The company explores for gold, silver, lead, zinc, and copper metals. It operates operating mining units, including Tambomayo located in the Caylloma province, Orcopampa Unit located in the province of Castilla, Uchucchacua located in province of Oyon, Julcani located in province of Angaraes, Peru, as well as San Gabrie located in the province of General Sanchez Cerro, in the Moquegua region.

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Shares of Tri Pointe Homes, Inc. (NYSE:TPH  Free Report) have earned an average rating of Moderate Buy from the four research firms that are covering the stock, MarketBeat reports. Two equities research analysts have rated the stock with a hold recommendation and two have given a buy recommendation to the company. The average 1 year target price among analysts that have covered the stock in the last year is $29.67.

Several research firms have issued reports on TPH. StockNews.com began coverage on Tri Pointe Homes in a research note on Thursday, May 18th. They issued a buy rating on the stock. Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft began coverage on Tri Pointe Homes in a research note on Wednesday, May 31st. They issued a buy rating and a $42.00 target price on the stock. Finally, Wedbush lifted their target price on Tri Pointe Homes from $27.00 to $30.00 in a research note on Friday, April 28th.

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Insider Activity

In other news, CFO Glenn J. Keeler sold 21,413 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated Wednesday, June 14th. The shares were sold at an average price of $33.01, for a total transaction of $706,843.13. Following the transaction, the chief financial officer now owns 102,194 shares in the company, valued at $3,373,423.94. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is accessible through this hyperlink. In related news, CEO Douglas F. Bauer sold 19,076 shares of the stock in a transaction that occurred on Wednesday, May 3rd. The shares were sold at an average price of $29.24, for a total value of $557,782.24. Following the transaction, the chief executive officer now owns 423,514 shares in the company, valued at approximately $12,383,549.36. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is available through this link. Also, CFO Glenn J. Keeler sold 21,413 shares of the stock in a transaction that occurred on Wednesday, June 14th. The stock was sold at an average price of $33.01, for a total transaction of $706,843.13. Following the completion of the transaction, the chief financial officer now owns 102,194 shares in the company, valued at approximately $3,373,423.94. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Corporate insiders own 2.00% of the companys stock.

Hedge Funds Weigh In On Tri Pointe Homes

Tri Pointe Homes Stock Performance

Several hedge funds and other institutional investors have recently bought and sold shares of TPH. Versant Capital Management Inc boosted its position in Tri Pointe Homes by 951.4% in the 3rd quarter. Versant Capital Management Inc now owns 1,819 shares of the construction companys stock worth $27,000 after purchasing an additional 1,646 shares in the last quarter. Point72 Hong Kong Ltd purchased a new stake in Tri Pointe Homes in the 1st quarter worth approximately $45,000. Captrust Financial Advisors boosted its position in Tri Pointe Homes by 30.4% in the 1st quarter. Captrust Financial Advisors now owns 2,275 shares of the construction companys stock worth $46,000 after purchasing an additional 531 shares in the last quarter. Ronald Blue Trust Inc. boosted its position in Tri Pointe Homes by 95.6% in the 4th quarter. Ronald Blue Trust Inc. now owns 4,861 shares of the construction companys stock worth $73,000 after purchasing an additional 2,376 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Belpointe Asset Management LLC purchased a new stake in Tri Pointe Homes in the 4th quarter worth approximately $78,000. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 98.53% of the companys stock.

TPH stock opened at $32.86 on Tuesday. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.48, a current ratio of 2.24 and a quick ratio of 2.24. The business has a 50-day moving average price of $30.29 and a 200 day moving average price of $25.25. The company has a market capitalization of $3.29 billion, a P/E ratio of 5.99, a PEG ratio of 0.82 and a beta of 1.45. Tri Pointe Homes has a 1-year low of $14.59 and a 1-year high of $33.56.

Tri Pointe Homes (NYSE:TPH  Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, April 27th. The construction company reported $0.73 earnings per share for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $0.41 by $0.32. The firm had revenue of $768.40 million during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $586.76 million. Tri Pointe Homes had a return on equity of 20.83% and a net margin of 12.97%. The firms quarterly revenue was up 5.9% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period in the previous year, the company posted $0.81 earnings per share. As a group, equities research analysts forecast that Tri Pointe Homes will post 3.07 EPS for the current fiscal year.

About Tri Pointe Homes

(Free Report

Tri Pointe Homes, Inc engages in the design, construction, and sale of single-family attached and detached homes in the United States. The company operates through a portfolio of six regional home building brands comprising Maracay in Arizona; Pardee Homes in California and Nevada; Quadrant Homes in Washington; Trendmaker Homes in Texas; TRI Pointe Homes in California, Colorado, and the Carolinas; and Winchester Homes in Maryland and Northern Virginia.

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StockNews.com upgraded shares of Ur-Energy (NYSEAMERICAN:URG  Free Report) (TSE:URE) to a sell rating in a report released on Wednesday morning.

A number of other analysts have also issued reports on URG. Alliance Global Partners dropped their target price on Ur-Energy from $2.75 to $2.25 in a research report on Thursday, April 13th. TheStreet raised shares of Ur-Energy from a d+ rating to a c- rating in a research report on Wednesday, June 14th. Roth Capital reiterated a buy rating on shares of Ur-Energy in a research note on Friday, April 14th. Finally, HC Wainwright cut their price objective on Ur-Energy from $3.00 to $2.80 in a research note on Wednesday, May 3rd.

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Ur-Energy Stock Up 1.0 %

Shares of URG stock opened at $1.05 on Wednesday. The company has a current ratio of 9.63, a quick ratio of 8.92 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.04. Ur-Energy has a fifty-two week low of $0.82 and a fifty-two week high of $1.50. The firms 50 day simple moving average is $1.23. The firm has a market capitalization of $277.97 million, a PE ratio of -21.00 and a beta of 1.46.

Institutional Investors Weigh In On Ur-Energy

About Ur-Energy

Several hedge funds and other institutional investors have recently modified their holdings of URG. MMCAP International Inc. SPC lifted its holdings in shares of Ur-Energy by 66.5% during the first quarter. MMCAP International Inc. SPC now owns 24,488,637 shares of the basic materials companys stock valued at $25,958,000 after acquiring an additional 9,780,004 shares during the period. Segra Capital Management LLC acquired a new position in Ur-Energy in the first quarter worth $5,290,000. CQS US LLC grew its holdings in shares of Ur-Energy by 20.9% during the first quarter. CQS US LLC now owns 13,006,553 shares of the basic materials companys stock worth $13,787,000 after purchasing an additional 2,250,000 shares during the last quarter. CM Wealth Advisors LLC acquired a new stake in shares of Ur-Energy in the first quarter valued at $1,527,000. Finally, State Street Corp lifted its position in Ur-Energy by 29.0% during the 2nd quarter. State Street Corp now owns 3,609,662 shares of the basic materials companys stock worth $3,826,000 after buying an additional 811,244 shares in the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 49.31% of the companys stock.

(Free Report)

Ur-Energy Inc engages in the acquisition, exploration, development, and operation of uranium mineral properties. The company holds interests in 12 projects located in the United States. Its flagship property is the Lost Creek project comprising a total of approximately 1,800 unpatented mining claims and three Wyoming mineral leases covering an area of approximately 35,400 acres located in the Great Divide Basin, Wyoming.

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Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce (TSE:CM  Free Report) (NYSE:CM) has received a consensus recommendation of Hold from the nine analysts that are presently covering the company, MarketBeat reports. Eight research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and one has issued a buy rating on the company. The average 12-month price objective among brokers that have issued a report on the stock in the last year is C$64.80.

CM has been the topic of several analyst reports. TD Securities upped their target price on shares of Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce from C$58.00 to C$59.00 and gave the stock a hold rating in a research note on Friday, May 26th. Fundamental Research set a C$69.38 target price on shares of Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce and gave the stock a buy rating in a research note on Tuesday, June 6th. National Bankshares upped their target price on shares of Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce from C$62.00 to C$64.00 and gave the stock a sector perform rating in a research note on Friday, May 26th. Cormark upped their target price on shares of Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce from C$61.00 to C$64.00 in a research note on Friday, May 26th. Finally, CSFB dropped their target price on shares of Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce from C$65.00 to C$60.00 in a research note on Tuesday, May 16th.

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Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce Price Performance

Shares of TSE CM opened at C$56.56 on Friday. Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce has a 1 year low of C$53.58 and a 1 year high of C$68.74. The companys 50-day moving average is C$56.48 and its 200 day moving average is C$57.76. The stock has a market capitalization of C$51.91 billion, a P/E ratio of 10.90, a P/E/G ratio of 27.22 and a beta of 1.02.

Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce Increases Dividend

Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce ( TSE:CM Free Report ) (NYSE:CM) last posted its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, May 25th. The company reported C$1.70 EPS for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of C$1.62 by C$0.08. Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce had a net margin of 23.32% and a return on equity of 10.00%. The business had revenue of C$5.70 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of C$5.58 billion. Research analysts anticipate that Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce will post 6.9600998 earnings per share for the current year.

The firm also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, July 28th. Shareholders of record on Wednesday, June 28th will be issued a dividend of $0.87 per share. This is a boost from Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerces previous quarterly dividend of $0.85. This represents a $3.48 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 6.15%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Tuesday, June 27th. Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerces dividend payout ratio is currently 67.05%.

About Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce

(Free Report

Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce, a diversified financial institution, provides various financial products and services to personal, business, public sector, and institutional clients in Canada, the United States, and internationally. The company operates through Canadian Personal and Business Banking; Canadian Commercial Banking and Wealth Management; U.S.

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Brookfield Infrastructure Partners L.P. (TSE:BIP.UN  Free Report) (NYSE:BIP)s share price passed above its 50-day moving average during trading on Friday . The stock has a 50-day moving average of C$48.17 and traded as high as C$48.52. Brookfield Infrastructure Partners shares last traded at C$48.42, with a volume of 409,670 shares traded.

Brookfield Infrastructure Partners Stock Up 2.9 %

The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 135.41, a quick ratio of 0.45 and a current ratio of 0.70. The firms 50-day moving average is C$48.17 and its 200 day moving average is C$46.34. The firm has a market capitalization of C$22.21 billion, a PE ratio of 440.18, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of -2.12 and a beta of 0.90.

About Brookfield Infrastructure Partners

(Free Report)

Brookfield Infrastructure Partners L.P. owns and operates utilities, transport, energy, and data infrastructure businesses. The Utilities segment operates approximately 2,000 kilometers (km) of natural gas transportation pipelines in the states of Rio de Janeiro, Sao Paulo, and Minas Gerais; approximately 2,200 km of electricity transmission lines in North and South America; and approximately 6.6 million electricity and natural gas connections and 1.1 million smart meters, as well as operates metallurgical coal export terminals.

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BILL (NYSE:BILL  Free Report) had its target price hoisted by Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft from $110.00 to $140.00 in a research report report published on Thursday morning, The Fly reports.

Other equities analysts also recently issued reports about the stock. TheStreet upgraded shares of BILL from a d rating to a c- rating in a research note on Friday, May 5th. Wolfe Research increased their target price on shares of BILL from $100.00 to $110.00 in a research report on Friday, May 5th. Citigroup increased their target price on shares of BILL from $108.00 to $110.00 in a research report on Friday, May 5th. Jefferies Financial Group decreased their price target on shares of BILL from $125.00 to $100.00 in a report on Tuesday, May 2nd. Finally, BMO Capital Markets boosted their target price on shares of BILL from $90.00 to $98.00 in a research report on Monday, May 8th. One research analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, six have given a hold rating and fourteen have assigned a buy rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat.com, BILL has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $126.75.

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BILL Price Performance

Shares of NYSE BILL opened at $116.85 on Thursday. The firm has a market cap of $12.43 billion, a P/E ratio of -42.03 and a beta of 1.94. The company has a quick ratio of 1.92, a current ratio of 1.92 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.45. The company has a 50 day moving average of $100.42 and a 200 day moving average of $95.36. BILL has a twelve month low of $68.30 and a twelve month high of $179.85.

Insider Activity at BILL

BILL ( NYSE:BILL Free Report ) last issued its earnings results on Thursday, May 4th. The company reported ($0.11) earnings per share for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of ($0.45) by $0.34. The company had revenue of $272.56 million during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $246.67 million. BILL had a negative net margin of 30.41% and a negative return on equity of 4.84%. As a group, research analysts expect that BILL will post -1.37 EPS for the current fiscal year.

In other news, CEO Rene A. Lacerte sold 9,102 shares of the firms stock in a transaction on Tuesday, May 30th. The shares were sold at an average price of $99.07, for a total value of $901,735.14. Following the sale, the chief executive officer now owns 104,551 shares in the company, valued at $10,357,867.57. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is available at this hyperlink. In related news, CEO Rene A. Lacerte sold 32,649 shares of BILL stock in a transaction dated Thursday, June 15th. The stock was sold at an average price of $114.62, for a total value of $3,742,228.38. Following the completion of the transaction, the chief executive officer now directly owns 86,902 shares of the companys stock, valued at $9,960,707.24. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through this link. Also, CEO Rene A. Lacerte sold 9,102 shares of BILL stock in a transaction dated Tuesday, May 30th. The stock was sold at an average price of $99.07, for a total value of $901,735.14. Following the completion of the sale, the chief executive officer now owns 104,551 shares of the companys stock, valued at $10,357,867.57. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Over the last quarter, insiders have sold 67,180 shares of company stock valued at $7,285,709. 5.00% of the stock is currently owned by corporate insiders.

Institutional Trading of BILL

A number of large investors have recently bought and sold shares of BILL. Ontario Teachers Pension Plan Board acquired a new stake in shares of BILL in the 1st quarter valued at approximately $899,000. Empower Advisory Group LLC bought a new position in BILL during the 1st quarter worth $3,052,000. Toroso Investments LLC increased its position in BILL by 7.4% during the 1st quarter. Toroso Investments LLC now owns 3,533 shares of the companys stock worth $287,000 after buying an additional 244 shares during the period. Advisory Services Network LLC increased its position in BILL by 69.9% during the 1st quarter. Advisory Services Network LLC now owns 16,373 shares of the companys stock worth $1,329,000 after buying an additional 6,734 shares during the period. Finally, Thrivent Financial for Lutherans increased its position in shares of BILL by 0.4% in the first quarter. Thrivent Financial for Lutherans now owns 617,811 shares of the companys stock worth $50,129,000 after purchasing an additional 2,618 shares during the period. 98.03% of the stock is owned by institutional investors.

BILL Company Profile

(Free Report)

BILL Holdings, Inc provides cloud-based software that simplifies, digitizes, and automates back-office financial operations for small and midsize businesses worldwide. The company provides software-as-a-service, cloud-based payments, and spend management products, which allow users to automate accounts payable and accounts receivable transactions, as well as enable users to connect with their suppliers and/or customers to do business, eliminate expense reports, manage cash flows, and improve office efficiency.

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Fenimore Asset Management Inc. lessened its holdings in EOG Resources, Inc. (NYSE:EOG  Free Report) by 0.6% during the first quarter, according to the company in its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The firm owned 397,496 shares of the energy exploration companys stock after selling 2,480 shares during the period. EOG Resources accounts for 1.2% of Fenimore Asset Management Inc.s holdings, making the stock its 29th biggest position. Fenimore Asset Management Inc.s holdings in EOG Resources were worth $45,565,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

Other large investors have also added to or reduced their stakes in the company. Ossiam raised its stake in EOG Resources by 1,206.7% in the 4th quarter. Ossiam now owns 196 shares of the energy exploration companys stock valued at $25,000 after acquiring an additional 181 shares during the period. Fortis Capital Advisors LLC bought a new stake in EOG Resources in the 4th quarter valued at $28,000. Lumature Wealth Partners LLC bought a new position in EOG Resources during the 1st quarter worth $28,000. Kistler Tiffany Companies LLC bought a new position in EOG Resources during the 4th quarter worth $30,000. Finally, Delta Asset Management LLC TN bought a new position in EOG Resources during the 4th quarter worth $32,000. Institutional investors own 89.58% of the companys stock.

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Insider Activity

In related news, COO Lloyd W. Helms, Jr. sold 5,000 shares of EOG Resources stock in a transaction that occurred on Wednesday, June 7th. The stock was sold at an average price of $115.87, for a total value of $579,350.00. Following the transaction, the chief operating officer now directly owns 149,689 shares of the companys stock, valued at $17,344,464.43. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is available through this hyperlink. Insiders own 0.30% of the companys stock.

Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

EOG Resources Stock Performance

Several research analysts have weighed in on the company. JPMorgan Chase & Co. increased their price objective on EOG Resources from $139.00 to $144.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a research report on Wednesday, April 12th. Piper Sandler lowered their price objective on EOG Resources from $170.00 to $155.00 in a research report on Tuesday, June 13th. Scotiabank upgraded EOG Resources from a sector perform rating to a sector outperform rating and lowered their price objective for the stock from $150.00 to $145.00 in a research report on Thursday, April 13th. Citigroup lowered their price objective on EOG Resources from $160.00 to $122.00 in a research report on Friday, March 17th. Finally, StockNews.com initiated coverage on EOG Resources in a research report on Thursday, May 18th. They issued a hold rating on the stock. Five investment analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating, eighteen have assigned a buy rating and one has assigned a strong buy rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the stock has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $148.17.

Shares of EOG stock opened at $114.44 on Friday. The businesss 50-day moving average price is $112.42 and its 200-day moving average price is $118.76. EOG Resources, Inc. has a 12 month low of $92.16 and a 12 month high of $150.88. The firm has a market capitalization of $66.93 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 7.16, a PEG ratio of 0.35 and a beta of 1.54. The company has a current ratio of 2.17, a quick ratio of 1.90 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.15.

EOG Resources (NYSE:EOG  Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings results on Friday, May 5th. The energy exploration company reported $2.69 EPS for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $2.42 by $0.27. EOG Resources had a return on equity of 30.34% and a net margin of 33.83%. The firm had revenue of $6.04 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $5.28 billion. During the same period last year, the firm posted $4.00 earnings per share. The businesss revenue for the quarter was up 51.7% on a year-over-year basis. Equities research analysts forecast that EOG Resources, Inc. will post 11.34 EPS for the current year.

EOG Resources Announces Dividend

The company also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, July 31st. Stockholders of record on Monday, July 17th will be paid a dividend of $0.825 per share. This represents a $3.30 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 2.88%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Friday, July 14th. EOG Resourcess payout ratio is 20.64%.

About EOG Resources

(Free Report)

EOG Resources, Inc, together with its subsidiaries, explores for, develops, produces, and markets crude oil, and natural gas and natural gas liquids. Its principal producing areas are in New Mexico and Texas in the United States; and the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago. The company was formerly known as Enron Oil & Gas Company.

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Guangdong Investment Limited (OTCMKTS:GGDVY  Free Report) saw a significant increase in short interest during the month of June. As of June 15th, there was short interest totalling 2,600 shares, an increase of 85.7% from the May 31st total of 1,400 shares. Based on an average daily volume of 2,500 shares, the short-interest ratio is presently 1.0 days.

Guangdong Investment Price Performance

GGDVY stock remained flat at $43.09 during midday trading on Friday. The companys stock had a trading volume of 313 shares, compared to its average volume of 1,941. Guangdong Investment has a one year low of $31.78 and a one year high of $58.03. The firms fifty day simple moving average is $45.70 and its 200 day simple moving average is $49.96.

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Guangdong Investment Increases Dividend

The company also recently declared a dividend, which will be paid on Friday, August 11th. Shareholders of record on Tuesday, June 27th will be given a $2.6647 dividend. The ex-dividend date is Monday, June 26th. This is a positive change from Guangdong Investments previous dividend of $1.14. This represents a yield of 8.53%. Guangdong Investments payout ratio is 30.15%.

About Guangdong Investment

Guangdong Investment Limited, an investment holding company, engages in water resources, property investment and development, department store operation, hotel ownership, energy project operation and management, and road and bridge operation businesses. The company's Water Resources segment provides water distribution, sewage treatment, water pipeline installation and consultancy services, constructs water supply and sewage treatment infrastructure, and sells machineries in Mainland China and Hong Kong.

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The Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy will leave for New Delhi on July 4 evening and meet the PM the next day. (File Image: Twitter)

Vijayawada: Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy would meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi and some Union ministers in New Delhi on July 5 to seek funds and resolve some of the long-pending issues of AP.

The chief minister will leave for New Delhi on July 4 evening and meet the PM the next day. Speculations are that Jagan Reddy would renew his support to the NDA amid attempts for formation of an anti-BJP front by various opposition parties.

The CM would be leaving for New Delhi soon after his Tirupati tour. He will also meet home minister Amit Shah and other Union ministers including Jal Shakti minister Gajendra Shekawat and finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman.

The CMs meeting with top BJP leaders assumes significance, in the wake of the recent meeting of BJP national president JP Nadda in Visakhapatnam. He had made wild allegations against the YSRC government, describing it as being very corrupt. Also, the BJP is readying for alliance with the Telugu Desam led by Chandrababu Naidu for the coming elections. But, soon after Naddas visit to AP, the local BJP leaders have started attacking the TD and Naidu with a new vehemence.

Naidu had met Amit Shah and Nadda in Delhi in May leading to speculations that the BJP might have an alliance with the TD. This is quite unlikely, given the present mood in the BJP. Naidus campaigns against PM Modi and the BJP before the 2019 polls are still fresh in the top BJP leaders minds. Naidu too has gone silent on the alliance proposal.

The BJP central leadership feels the YSRC is a more reliable partner to them than Naidu.
Deb Rogers is leaving office with no regrets  and no Twitter account.

The outspoken and polarizing Williamsville mayor, who wraps up her term on Monday, declined to take back any of what she said over the last four years.

This includes her strident stands against Covid-19 restrictions and pointed criticisms of political opponents on social media and in person.

She cited a legacy of park improvements and said shes not at fault for the divisions that flared up at Village Board meetings.

Part of our role in village government is to keep our residents safe and to keep residents informed, Rogers told The Buffalo News. And, just because I brought forth what Ill call not-a-mainstream view and I asked some questions, I dont think its the wrong thing to do in government.

After a term with political drama, Williamsville Mayor Deb Rogers decides not to seek re-election "I was just brave enough to state what a lot of people were thinking in elected office but were too afraid to say," Rogers said.

During her final year in office, Rogers was often outvoted 4-1 on the Village Board. Those disagreements carried over to last Mondays board work session and meeting.

Outgoing Trustee Mary Lowther chided Rogers for recently using her @LoveMayorDeb Twitter account to demean fellow board members, a charge Rogers dismissed.

Rogers and her successor, Trustee Christine Hunt, sparred over whether Rogers can keep the account, which she shut down the next day, and other questions.

Rogers called Hunt untrustworthy, while Hunt described an 18-month stretch of serving with Rogers as a living hell.

Hunt, who prefers to look forward, said she wants to set a new tone in the job.

Were gonna have to get work done, yeah. So were going to have to stick to our timeline. But its not going to be combative, or accusatory, or retaliatory or anything, Hunt said in an interview.

From parks to pandemic

Rogers was appointed to a trustee vacancy in 2017. She won election to her board seat, and as mayor in 2019, unopposed.

Back then, Rogers said she wanted to fix up Island Park, South Long Park and other forgotten recreational venues in Williamsville.

Seven months later, the pandemic upended daily life.

Rogers never got a Covid-19 shot, though she said she has received other vaccines.

I can say I have never had a day of fear over Covid, she said last week.

Rogers soon blasted vaccine requirements for health care workers and mask mandates in public spaces.

Trustee Matthew Etu resigned in January 2022, accusing Rogers of creating a toxic environment.

Williamsville trustee blasts 'toxic' mayor in resignation letter Matthew Etu said he is resigning effective immediately because of a toxic and destructive environment created by Williamsville Mayor Deborah Rogers.

Sometimes in politics, things can get heated and discussions can get passionate. And I would just say that not everybody is cut out for that, Rogers said.

The county fined the village $300 when Rogers and others at a meeting flouted the mask mandate.

In May 2022, Rogers and her board allies condemned an order outlining isolation and quarantine procedures for New Yorkers with infectious diseases.

Hunt defended the emergency rule as a commonsense public health measure, but Rogers said it gave the state powers abused by communist rulers in China.

Other trustees cited the forced relocation of Japanese Americans during World War II and the treatment of Jews under Nazi Germany.

Local Jewish organizations strongly objected. The trustees apologized but stood by their opposition to the rule.

Rogers insisted her remarks had been misrepresented.

Link of state health rule to Holocaust spurs impassioned debate in Williamsville There has never been a scientific, technologically advanced murder machine like the Nazis created to kill people for no reason than they were Jews. I think to make that comparison is quite inappropriate, said Nick Leibovic, who fled Lithuania for England in 1939, at the age of 17, following the Nazis rise to power.

One month later, former mayors Mary Lowther and Dan DeLano won a special election for two trustee seats.

The pair joined Hunt and Trustee Eileen Torre in a four-vote majority that moved ahead with its own priorities, including eliminating the job of community development director over Rogers objections.

She announced earlier this year she would not seek re-election.

I dont trust her

Last Monday, lingering tensions were on display.

Rogers raised questions about a plan to have the town take over village building and code enforcement services.

This will all be ironed out, Torre replied at the work session. It will be peachy keen  dont worry about it.

Later, Hunt directly asked Rogers to give up her @LoveMayorDeb account. She said it was started  under a different name  by a village employee for a prior mayor and it did not belong to Rogers.

Rogers said Hunt was welcome to the official Twitter handle, @Vill_Will_Gov, an account idled for a year.

The debate continued when Rogers revealed she had declined on principle to sign permits for events taking place after her term ends.

As you can see, Rogers said to an attendee, its a very contentious relationship between Trustee Hunt and myself. And I dont trust her as far as I can throw her.

DeLano, the deputy mayor, said he would handle the task as needed.

At the formal meeting, board members made valedictory statements as Rogers, Lowther and DeLano wound down their terms.

Rogers highlighted work such as new playground equipment, bathroom renovations and public murals. She also thanked Williamsville employees and volunteers.

Ive met some of the best people and some of the worst. Ive made new friends, Ive lost old friends and Ive even made enemies of friends. So, Ive been a little busy over the last four years. And Ive helped keep The Buffalo News afloat, Rogers said, nodding to its coverage of her mayoralty.

Focused on the future

Only DeLano thanked Rogers, for her work on parks and for stepping into an often-thankless role.

Lowther objected to Rogers recent description of board members as communists on Twitter.

I think its so inappropriate and its so unnecessary, Lowther said. Rogers said this referred to the incoming board, not to outgoing members like Lowther.

Hunt thanked Lowther and DeLano.

We got a lot more accomplished this year, together, than we had previously, Hunt said. And, quite frankly, my time on this board before that was a living hell. We went through a lot, Eileen and I went through a lot, in 2021 and early 2022.

The next morning, Rogers emailed board members to say she had shut down @LoveMayorDeb to avoid burdening taxpayers with a legal battle.

Rogers in an interview said she was right to question vaccine mandates, arguing they led to ongoing medical staffing issues, and the legality of the quarantine order, which a lower-court judge tossed out in a decision the state is appealing.

And she said she wouldnt take back anything she posted on Twitter, where she retweeted or liked messages demeaning those who received the Covid-19 vaccine or who wore protective masks.

Im going to call it like I see it, Rogers said.

She didnt rule out running for office again but said she will stay off Twitter and out of the limelight for now.

Social media has become, seemingly, very, very much an outlet for a lot of negativity, Rogers said. And, quite honestly, Im just walking away from that.

Hunts husband, Dan, on Monday objected to a tweet diminishing his wifes qualifications for mayor. Rogers had replied to the message with an emoji signaling amusement.

Chivalry isnt dead, Christine Hunt said dryly.

Hunt doesnt want to revisit past fights and said she hasnt taken Rogers criticisms personally.

This isnt a tug of war; its a transition, she said.

She said she is eager to govern with Torre; incoming trustees James Celeste and Jeffrey Hahn, her running mates in Junes uncontested election; and DeLano, Hunts pick to fill her trustee seat.

Hunt said Williamsville needs to update its community plan, overhaul its design standards and find a permanent fix for the Ellicott Creek dam, among other agenda items.

I really think that well be able to work together as a good team and accomplish those things, she said. Were all focused in the same direction.
Congress leader Rahul Gandhi addresses a public meeting, in Khammam district, Sunday, July 2, 2023. (PTI Photo)

Khammam: Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Sunday announced that the Aasara pension that is given to aged persons and widows would be enhanced from Rs 2,000 to Rs 4,000. The assurance, announced at the massive Telangana Garjana meeting in Khammam is significant in the backdrop of various surveys indicating that the BRS vote is intact among beneficiaries of the pension scheme, while it has lost its base considerably among younger voters.

The announcement of the Cheyutha scheme completed the trilogy, after the Warangal Farmers Declaration and Hyderabad Youth Declaration. Gandhi, who began his speech to a rapturous response by saying, "I am delighted to be back in Telangana after the Bharat Jodo Yatra again", announced that the Congress government which will be formed after the next state Assembly elections, will give a pension of Rs 4,000 per month to senior citizens, physically handicapped, artisans and other categories.

The Congress will repeat the Karnataka phenomenon in Telangana, where the party stood with common and poor people, with the Dalits, tribals, OBCs, minorities, women, farmers, students, unemployed youth, small business folks against the might of a corrupt oppressive state government, backed by big billionaires, and defeated them, the former AICC president thundered at the mammoth public meeting here on Sunday evening.

The announcement of doubling all pensions, currently fixed at `2,000 per month by the BRS government, led to another thunderous ovation from the sea of people, who made it to the venue despite the allegedly numerous hardships imposed by the ruling party members, from denial of RTC buses to police blockades and seizure of vehicles and cabs, to ensure most volunteers and the general public did not find it easy to attend the Telangana Jana Garjana meeting.

But those who came, including those who arrived from other districts, did roar every time the name of either TPCC president A. Revanth Reddy or CLP leader Mallu Bhatti Vikaramarka, who concluded his 110-day-odd long, over 1,200-km Peoples March, or former MP Ponguleti Srinivas Reddys name was mentioned.

Srinivas Reddy, who formally joined the Congress at the event, was seen trying to calm people down when they erupted into a "PM, PM" chant the moment Rahul Gandhi began to deliver his lecture.

"The Congress has stood by its ideology of love and uniting all citizens, against the communal and divisive agenda of the BJP. We could do so because you, the Congress workers, are the backbone of our party, our strength. We were able to defeat BJP in Karnataka because of you. We will defeat the B-team of BJP, the BRS, in Telangana with your strength," Rahul Gandhi said.

The deafening applause and incessant slogans left Congress MP N. Uttam Kumar Reddy, who was interpreting the speech from Hindi to Telugu, scrambling to re-check the points, to which Rahul Gandhi warmly obliged.

Rahul Gandhi also promised that all eligible tribals would get podu land pattas and all problems of the Dharani portal would be addressed by the Congress government.

Accusing Chief Minister K. Chandrashekar Rao of having lost all volition, and being in total control of Prime Minister Narendra Modi because of the corruption BRS government and Raos family members had indulged in, ranging from `1,00,000 crore in Kaleshwaram to the Delhi liquor scam, Gandhi said, "the CM even changed his partys name from TRS to BRS to announce his affinity for the BJP" and added that it stood for "BJP Rishtedar Party" and termed it as the B team of the BJP.

Gandhi also said that when the Opposition parties were considering inviting the BRS for the unity talks held recently in Patna, he had told them that "there is no question of the Congress sitting in the same meeting where a BJP stooge like the BRS was there."

The TPCC put up a great show of unity with all senior leaders  Revanth Reddy, Srinivas Reddy, Uttam Kumar Reddy, Bhatti Vikramarka, V. Hanumantha Rao, Renuka Chowdary, Komatireddy Venkat Reddy and D. Sridhar Babu, among others  in attendance and seen interacting with one other with smiles and friendly gestures.

Gandhi ended the speech on a high note, with people echoing the sentiments aired throughout the meeting by all leaders that the Khammam Garjana could well be the beginning of the end for the BRS government and the foundation for change.
Senior NCP MP and former Union minister Praful Patel, who ditched his longtime mentor Sharad Pawar to join hands with his nephew, is being seen as a probable contender among the likely new ministers in the central government. (PTI)

New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi will chair a meeting of the Union Council of Ministers on Monday amid a heightened buzz about the likelihood of a Cabinet reshuffle following a series of meetings of the ruling BJP's top brass.

The Monday meeting is expected to be held at the newly built convention centre at Pragati Maidan here, which will host the G20 summit in September.

The political upheaval in Maharashtra on Sunday as NCP leader Ajit Pawar joined the BJP-Shiv Sena government along with several of his party legislators and a number of closed-door meetings involving the BJP's brain trust, including Home Minister Amit Shah and party president J P Nadda, have strengthened the view that a Cabinet reshuffle is on the cards.

Senior NCP MP and former Union minister Praful Patel, who ditched his longtime mentor Sharad Pawar to join hands with his nephew, is being seen as a probable contender among the likely new ministers in the central government.

With Ajit Pawar taking oath as deputy chief minister in Maharashtra, there is also speculation about Devendra Fadnavis, also a deputy chief minister and the key BJP leader in the state, being brought into the central government.

BJP sources have been indicating that allies will be given representation in the Cabinet whenever Modi decides to go in for a rejig in his Council of Ministers.

The fact that the period before Parliament's Monsoon Session, which begins from July 20, could be the last window for such an exercise have added to the reshuffle buzz.

The BJP's organisation, including in some states, may also see some changes as its top brass makes its choices for key positions with the campaign for the 2024 Lok Sabha polls intensifying, sources said.

Modi held a meeting with Shah and Nadda on June 28. This came after closed-door meetings involving Shah and Nadda, among others, to take stock of organisational and political affairs.

Any Cabinet rejig will factor in the upcoming assembly polls as well.

The BJP has been making hectic preparations for several state polls scheduled this year, with the Congress showing some bounce following its big win in Karnataka.

Elections are due in Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, Telangana and Mizoram later this year, and the Congress will be the BJP's main challenger in the first three states.
At least four security personnel and a terrorist were killed in an exchange of fire between them in Pakistan's restive Balochistan province on Sunday.

The attack took place in Dhana Sar area in the province.

Sherani Deputy Commissioner (DC) Bilal Shabbir confirmed the fatalities, adding that the exchange of fire between the security forces and the terrorists continued for almost two hours.

Also Read | Six terrorists killed in Pakistan's North Waziristan

Three police officials and security personnel were killed in the attack in the Sherani sub-district, Shabbir said, adding that a terrorist was also killed.

DC Shabbir added: The companions of the injured terrorists succeeded in taking them away. The body of the dead terrorist has been handed over to the CTD (Counter-Terrorism Department).

The terrorists were well armed and they attacked the checkposts after which the police and security responded and the firing lasted for some two hours, he said.

One security personnel was also injured but is out of danger, Shabbir said.

He further said that the bodies of those killed have been taken to Zhob District Headquarters Hospital.

Stating that law enforcement agencies have cordoned off Dhana Sar and the surrounding areas, the DC added that the CTD has collected evidence from the incidents site and has initiated its probe.

Meanwhile, Sherani District Health Officer Dr Daulat Khan has said that a state of emergency has been put in place at the Zhob Civil Hospital and that all hospital staff had been called to duty despite the weekend.

Balochistan Chief Minister Mir Abdul Quddus Bizenjo condemned the rocket attack and firing on the checkposts and expressed his grief on the killing of the four security personnel.

He also lauded the polices and the FCs efforts in killing one terrorist. The terrorists cannot demoralise the security forces by their cowardly actions, he said in a statement.

The sacrifices of the security forces are a beacon for the nation. The security forces are ensuring the security of the country and the nation with their firm determination and courage, Bizenjo added.

However, no one immediately claimed responsibility for the attack.

Pakistan has seen an uptick in terror activities, especially in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan, after the outlawed TTP ended its ceasefire with the government in November last year.

A day ago, a police constable was injured in a hand grenade attack at the smart police station of Karachi.

On June 24, a police official was killed and two more were injured in a suicide attack on a police van in Balochistans Turbat.
The Congress in Telangana on Sunday alleged that the police and the government machinery were creating hurdles for the people attending top party leader Rahul Gandhi's public meeting at Khammam at the behest of ruling BRS leaders.

Telangana Pradesh Congress Committee (TPCC) president and MP A Revanth Reddy spoke to state DGP Anjani Kumar about the issue, party sources said here, even as former union minister Renuka Chowdhury slammed the police and claimed that the ruling BRS is jittery over the public meeting.

Also Read | Telangana BJP leader Jithender Reddys 'Bull treatment' tweet irks party

Congress MLA D Sridhar Babu alleged that local BRS leadership was acting in an undemocratic manner in an attempt to make the rally a failure, while another Congress MLA D Anasuya, popularly known as Seethakka, accused the BRS government of not letting the state-run Road Transport Corporation (RTC) buses to be hired for transporting people to the event. "It is deplorable that the government machinery set up check posts and stopped private vehicles in which people were coming to the meeting," she said.

The public meeting in Khammam, about 200 km from Hyderabad, is being held for the Congress to sound the poll bugle for the Legislative Assembly elections scheduled to be held later this year, and as a culmination of Congress Legislature Party (CLP) leader Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka's 'padayatra'.
The Delhi government's Excise department has earned nearly Rs 1,700 crore in excise duty and value added tax in the first quarter of 2023-24, official data showed.

In the 2022-23 fiscal, the department had raked in Rs 6,821 crore by selling over 62 crore bottles of liquor. The amount included Rs 5,548.48 crore as excise duty and Rs 1,272.52 crore as value added tax.

The Excise department expects the revenues to increase in the next few months with the opening of more liquor shops.

Also Read | Delhi's retail liquor trade records sharp decline compared to 1st quarter of FY 2022-23

"Beer is preferred during the summer months by customers. It has a lower excise duty, which is why the revenue collection in the first half is always relatively lower as compared to the second half of the financial year when whisky sells more," said an official.

The city government's Delhi State Industrial and Infrastructure Development Corporation, Delhi Tourism and Transportation Development Corporation, Delhi State Civil Supplies Corporation and Delhi Consumers' Cooperative Wholesale Stores operate 574 liquor shops in the national capital while more than 930 hotels, clubs and restaurants serve liquor in the city.

The Delhi government, in its budget for 2023-24, has estimated a total excise collection of Rs 7,365 crore -- nearly 14 per cent of its Rs 53,565 crore tax revenue.
Fire on Sunday broke out at a sweet shop in Delhi's Geeta Colony, reported news agency ANI. At least two people, including an elderly woman, were rescued by the Delhi Police and fire services.

Several fire tenders are present at the spot.

The firefighting operations are under way.

#WATCH | Delhi: Fire breaks out at a sweet shop in Delhi's Geeta Colony. Several fire tenders at the spot. Further details awaited. pic.twitter.com/Bv6Jezm5T5  ANI (@ANI) July 2, 2023

More details are awaited.
Congress MP Hibi Eden's move to propose shifting of Kerala's state capital to Kochi from Thiruvananthapuram has been widely criticised across political lines, including his own party which rejected it and termed it as "illogical" and "impractical".

The ruling CPI(M) in Kerala also made it clear that Thiruvananthapuram would remain as the state capital and termed Ernakulam MP Eden's move as "immature" and aimed at improving his chances in the general election next year.

Also Read | Punjab delegation visits Kerala to learn about use of tech to plug excise revenue leakage

The Left party said that no one in his right mind would make such a suggestion in view of all the government departments and facilities available in Thiruvananthapuram.

Congress MP from Thiruvananthapuram, Shashi Tharoor, said he completely rejects the proposal by Eden as it is "illogical".

He also said there was some "mischief" on the part of the Centre in seeking views on the Bill by Eden to shift the state capital even before he was given permission to table it in the House.

"Hibi Eden has the right to move such a Bill, but it is an illogical decision. I completely reject it," he said.

He also tweeted -- "Some light relief for the weekend! Kerala: Congress MP @HibiEden wants the state capital shifted to Kochi, @CMOKerala notes its impracticality, @ShashiTharoor says 'wholly without merit'."

K Muraleedharan, Congress MP and son of late party leader and former Chief Minister K Karunakaran, too shared similar views when he said Eden's move without consulting the grand old party was "unacceptable".

He said that Thiruvananthapuram was the state capital ever since Kerala came into existence. There were a lot of facilities, like an international airport and places of worship of all faiths, within the city and therefore, there was no question of moving the capital to Kochi.

"I do not know what prompted Eden to make such a proposal, but the state capital cannot be shifted on someone's wish. He should have consulted the party before such a move," he said.

Leader of Opposition (LoP) in the state assembly V D Satheesan said that while Eden was like a younger brother to him, the moment he came to know about the proposal, he immediately conveyed his "strong dissatisfaction" to the Ernakulam MP.

Speaking to reporters in Kochi, Satheesan said that Eden has been asked to not press the Bill in the Lok Sabha and to withdraw it.

"He will not press the Bill and will withdraw it," the LoP said.

Satheesan said that it was a private member's bill and does not indicate the stand of the party which does not approve of the proposal.

"Congress does not want shifting of the capital to Kochi which is pressed for space as it is. Thiruvananthapuram is the best place for it," he added.

CPI(M) leaders and state Ministers P Rajeev and V Sivankutty too criticised Eden's move.

Sivankutty said that the state government has already indicated its disagreement regarding the suggestion to the concerned authorities.

"The suggestion is impractical and immature. It will not be allowed," he told reporters in Thiruvananthapuram.

Rajeev said the proposal was an indication of Eden's decision to contest the general elections from Ernakulam and nothing more than that. "His party leadership has criticised his move and rejected it," he said.

CPI(M) leader M M Mani was of the view that no one in his right mind would make such a suggestion.

Eden has not yet reacted to the criticism of his decision.

Meanwhile, some members of the BJP's youth wing Yuva Morcha held a protest march to the state secretariat in Thiruvananthapuram against Eden's decision and also burned his effigy there.
Senior BJP leader B S Yediyurappa on Sunday left for New Delhi after being summoned by the party's top leadership amidst a delay in electing the Leader of Opposition in the Karnataka Legislative Assembly. Though the BJP stalwart, who is the BJP parliamentary board member, expressed ignorance over the reason for the call, party sources said he has been summoned to decide on the candidates for the posts of leader of the opposition as well as the party's state chief.

BJP National president J P Nadda has summoned me to New Delhi. I dont know what the subject is, Yediyurappa told reporters here. He said, I will go there, talk to him and if possible, I will return by tonight because a massive protest by thousands has been planned for day-after-tomorrow. So I will try to return by tonight or tomorrow morning.

Asked whether he has been called to New Delhi to discuss the appointment of LoP, Yediyurappa said he was not aware. ... After talking to him, I will get to know what is running in his mind. I dont have any clue why he has summoned me, the former CM said. To a query about the lobbying in the party for the two top posts, Yediyurappa said only the national leaders would take a call on such matters.

Also Read | New Karnataka Leader of the Opposition by July 2 evening: Basavaraj Bommai

Many people demand many things... Our national leaders will decide. Since he (Nadda) has called me, I will go there and talk to him, he added. Regarding the BJPs agitation on Tuesday, Yediyurappa said a massive protest will be organised against the ruling Congress for its "failure" to fulfill its election promises. It has been decided to protest the failure of the state government. Thousands of people will participate. I will also take part in it, he added.

With just one day left for the budget session of the assembly to start, the BJP is yet to finalise its leader of opposition. There is a stiff contest in the saffron party in the state for these two prime posts.

There are many frontrunners for the role of opposition leader, sources in the BJP said. Among them are former Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai, former ministers Araga Jnanendra, R Ashoka and Vijayapura MLA Basanagouda Patil Yatnal. Recently, former Minister V Somanna had expressed his desire to become the BJP state president. The incumbent Nalin Kumar Kateel said although his term got over a year ago he was continuing in the post due to the assembly elections.

Also Read | Renukacharya dares party to act against those who speak ill of B S Yediyurappa

Now, the decision on his replacement would be made by the party high command, he said. According to party sources, the BJP legislative party meeting to elect their leader, which was scheduled for today has been cancelled.

Today there is no meeting of the BJP legislative party. We expect that the leader of opposition will be decided by tomorrow (Monday) afternoon, a senior BJP leader told PTI. Meanwhile, the Congress mocked the BJPs indecisiveness to finalise the leader of opposition. In a tweet on Saturday, the party posted a picture of a chair with a caption which read, Advertisement -- Urgently needed. A suitable person for the vacant post of leader of opposition of Karnataka assembly is required.
Assenagon Asset Management S.A. lowered its position in Dominion Energy, Inc. (NYSE:D  Free Report) by 54.4% in the 1st quarter, according to its most recent disclosure with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The firm owned 175,101 shares of the utilities providers stock after selling 208,874 shares during the quarter. Assenagon Asset Management S.A.s holdings in Dominion Energy were worth $9,790,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).

Several other institutional investors and hedge funds also recently made changes to their positions in the company. Moneta Group Investment Advisors LLC increased its position in Dominion Energy by 93,554.0% during the 4th quarter. Moneta Group Investment Advisors LLC now owns 9,865,509 shares of the utilities providers stock valued at $604,953,000 after purchasing an additional 9,854,975 shares during the period. Norges Bank acquired a new stake in Dominion Energy during the 4th quarter valued at approximately $332,276,000. Vanguard Group Inc. increased its position in Dominion Energy by 3.9% during the 3rd quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 73,953,046 shares of the utilities providers stock valued at $5,110,895,000 after purchasing an additional 2,767,626 shares during the period. Price T Rowe Associates Inc. MD increased its position in Dominion Energy by 9.9% during the 3rd quarter. Price T Rowe Associates Inc. MD now owns 30,771,075 shares of the utilities providers stock valued at $2,126,590,000 after purchasing an additional 2,763,501 shares during the period. Finally, Point72 Asset Management L.P. increased its position in Dominion Energy by 197.1% during the 4th quarter. Point72 Asset Management L.P. now owns 3,807,950 shares of the utilities providers stock valued at $233,503,000 after purchasing an additional 2,526,350 shares during the period. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 69.58% of the companys stock.

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In related news, COO Diane Leopold sold 6,250 shares of the stock in a transaction on Thursday, June 1st. The stock was sold at an average price of $49.16, for a total value of $307,250.00. Following the completion of the sale, the chief operating officer now directly owns 100,115 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $4,921,653.40. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at this link. 0.14% of the stock is currently owned by insiders.

Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

Dominion Energy Price Performance

A number of research firms have weighed in on D. The Goldman Sachs Group started coverage on shares of Dominion Energy in a research report on Wednesday, June 7th. They set a neutral rating for the company. 51job restated a maintains rating on shares of Dominion Energy in a report on Friday, June 9th. JPMorgan Chase & Co. cut their price target on Dominion Energy from $63.00 to $55.00 in a report on Friday, June 9th. UBS Group cut their price target on Dominion Energy from $60.00 to $57.00 and set a neutral rating on the stock in a report on Tuesday, March 7th. Finally, Morgan Stanley increased their price target on Dominion Energy from $58.00 to $63.00 and gave the stock an equal weight rating in a report on Thursday, April 20th. 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 data from MarketBeat, the stock presently has a consensus rating of Hold and a consensus price target of $62.55.

Shares of D opened at $51.79 on Friday. Dominion Energy, Inc. has a 12-month low of $48.47 and a 12-month high of $86.28. The businesss fifty day moving average is $53.35 and its 200 day moving average is $56.83. The company has a quick ratio of 0.62, a current ratio of 0.75 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.50. The stock has a market cap of $43.29 billion, a P/E ratio of 36.22, a P/E/G ratio of 0.69 and a beta of 0.44.

Dominion Energy (NYSE:D  Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings results on Friday, May 5th. The utilities provider reported $0.99 EPS for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $0.98 by $0.01. The business had revenue of $5.25 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $4.46 billion. Dominion Energy had a return on equity of 12.67% and a net margin of 7.05%. Dominion Energys quarterly revenue was up 22.7% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period in the prior year, the firm posted $1.18 EPS. Sell-side analysts anticipate that Dominion Energy, Inc. will post 3.74 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

Dominion Energy Announces Dividend

The business also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Tuesday, June 20th. Investors of record on Friday, June 2nd were given a $0.6675 dividend. This represents a $2.67 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 5.16%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Thursday, June 1st. Dominion Energys payout ratio is currently 186.71%.

Dominion Energy Profile

(Free Report)

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.

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Ellenbecker Investment Group lowered its position in shares of Exxon Mobil Co. (NYSE:XOM  Free Report) by 1.8% in the first quarter, according to the company in its most recent 13F filing with the SEC. The fund owned 6,188 shares of the oil and gas companys stock after selling 115 shares during the quarter. Ellenbecker Investment Groups holdings in Exxon Mobil were worth $678,000 as of its most recent filing with the SEC.

A number of other large investors also recently bought and sold shares of the company. Dark Forest Capital Management LP purchased a new position in shares of Exxon Mobil in the 4th quarter valued at about $27,000. Corrado Advisors LLC purchased a new position in shares of Exxon Mobil in the 4th quarter valued at about $28,000. My Personal CFO LLC increased its holdings in shares of Exxon Mobil by 15,000.0% in the 4th quarter. My Personal CFO LLC now owns 302 shares of the oil and gas companys stock valued at $262,000 after purchasing an additional 300 shares in the last quarter. Koesten Hirschmann & Crabtree INC. purchased a new position in shares of Exxon Mobil in the 4th quarter valued at about $36,000. Finally, Financial Connections Group Inc. increased its holdings in shares of Exxon Mobil by 1,207.1% in the 4th quarter. Financial Connections Group Inc. now owns 366 shares of the oil and gas companys stock valued at $40,000 after purchasing an additional 338 shares in the last quarter. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 58.59% of the companys stock.

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Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

Several research firms have weighed in on XOM. Jefferies Financial Group dropped their target price on shares of Exxon Mobil from $148.00 to $140.00 in a report on Monday, May 15th. Mizuho dropped their target price on shares of Exxon Mobil from $147.00 to $130.00 in a report on Friday, May 19th. Truist Financial raised their target price on shares of Exxon Mobil from $116.00 to $118.00 in a report on Monday, May 1st. Scotiabank downgraded shares of Exxon Mobil from a sector outperform rating to a sector perform rating and dropped their target price for the company from $140.00 to $135.00 in a report on Thursday, April 13th. Finally, HSBC raised their target price on shares of Exxon Mobil from $113.50 to $115.50 and gave the company a hold rating in a report on Thursday, April 20th. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, nine have assigned a hold rating and twelve have given a buy rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat, the stock presently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $124.70.

Exxon Mobil Price Performance

XOM opened at $107.25 on Friday. The companys 50 day simple moving average is $107.10 and its 200 day simple moving average is $109.65. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.19, a quick ratio of 1.10 and a current ratio of 1.46. Exxon Mobil Co. has a 1 year low of $80.69 and a 1 year high of $119.92. The stock has a market capitalization of $433.61 billion, a PE ratio of 7.26, a P/E/G ratio of 0.62 and a beta of 1.09.

Exxon Mobil (NYSE:XOM  Free Report) last released its earnings results on Friday, April 28th. The oil and gas company reported $2.83 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $2.65 by $0.18. Exxon Mobil had a net margin of 15.06% and a return on equity of 31.48%. The business had revenue of $86.56 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $90.07 billion. During the same period last year, the company earned $2.07 earnings per share. The companys quarterly revenue was down 4.3% on a year-over-year basis. As a group, sell-side analysts expect that Exxon Mobil Co. will post 9.59 EPS for the current year.

Exxon Mobil Dividend Announcement

The firm also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, June 9th. Shareholders of record on Tuesday, May 16th were given a dividend of $0.91 per share. The ex-dividend date was Monday, May 15th. This represents a $3.64 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 3.39%. Exxon Mobils dividend payout ratio (DPR) is 24.64%.

Insider Buying and Selling at Exxon Mobil

In other Exxon Mobil news, VP Darrin L. Talley sold 2,500 shares of Exxon Mobil stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, May 1st. The shares were sold at an average price of $116.11, for a total transaction of $290,275.00. Following the transaction, the vice president now directly owns 29,272 shares of the companys stock, valued at $3,398,771.92. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is available at this link. 0.06% of the stock is currently owned by corporate insiders.

Exxon Mobil Company Profile

(Free Report)

Exxon Mobil Corporation engages in the exploration and production of crude oil and natural gas in the United States and internationally. It operates through Upstream, Energy Products, Chemical Products, and Specialty Products segments. The Upstream segment explores for and produces crude oil and natural gas.

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The New York State Police raised the maximum age for state trooper candidates from 29 to 34, the organization announced Friday.

The move, approved by Gov. Kathy Hochul, comes as State Police officials try to diversify a mostly white force and fill hundreds of empty positions.

This change will allow us to recruit the most diverse and skilled group of candidates possible, Acting State Police Superintendent Steven Nigrelli said in a statement. By raising the age, we are ensuring that we have the best and most qualified candidates possible.

As previously reported by The Buffalo News, the State Police have the budget for 5,500 employees, but only have about 4,800 employees on payroll.

There are many qualified candidates from the military or other careers who decide that they want to transition to the State Police, but because of the previous age requirement, some were not eligible, Nigrelli continued. These are individuals that have a wealth of knowledge and experience to bring to the job.

State Police ranks don't reflect New York's diversity. The agency is recruiting to address that Just like police departments around New York, the State Police look in the mirror and see a problem  the force doesn't look like the communities they serve.

The change also appears to be the latest initiative aimed at diversifying the force.

Just under 54% of New Yorkers are white, compared to the 88% of troopers who are white, according to figures recently released by the State Police.

Meanwhile, members of other racial groups are underrepresented in the State Police. Only 4.2% of troopers are Black and only 6% are Hispanic/Latinx, compared to 17.7% and 19.7% of the state population, respectively.

Several former state troopers described instances of severe racism within the force in a 2021 Associated Press report. One of those former troopers sued the State Police, describing the department as systematically racist.

In recent years, the State Police have attempted to retain more minority and female troopers by recruiting heavily in urban areas, holding meetings with community leaders and spending more money on recruiting.

Criminal justice agencies grapple with recruitment challenges Personnel administrators for local police departments, sheriff's offices and jails are reaching farther down on their civil service lists to find candidates still interested in job openings.

Those efforts appear to have been successful. More Black, Hispanic/Latinx and Asian candidates applied to be troopers in 2022 than did in 2017, even though the overall number of applicants decreased.

At the end, it (State Police) should just be more reflective of the society we serve, Nigrelli previously told The News.

The State Police application process opened Saturday and runs through September. Candidates can take the entrance exam  which tests applicants cognitive abilities and personality attributes  as early as July 10 at 54 testing centers in New York and hundreds more at locations throughout the U.S. and at military locations around the world.

The maximum age can also be raised one year for every year an applicant serves full-time active military duty up to a maximum of seven years, according to the State Police website.

The job has a starting salary of $59,612, and troopers earn $84,331 after one year. It also offers full benefits and a retirement plan.
Fidelity National Information Services, Inc. (NYSE:FIS  Free Report) has been assigned an average rating of Moderate Buy from the twenty-two brokerages that are covering the firm, Marketbeat.com reports. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, nine have assigned a hold rating, eleven have issued a buy rating and one has given a strong buy rating to the company. The average 12 month price objective among analysts that have covered the stock in the last year is $89.30.

FIS has been the topic of several research reports. Jefferies Financial Group cut their price objective on shares of Fidelity National Information Services from $65.00 to $60.00 in a report on Wednesday, March 15th. Barclays boosted their price target on Fidelity National Information Services from $58.00 to $62.00 in a research report on Monday, May 1st. Stephens upgraded Fidelity National Information Services from an equal weight rating to an overweight rating and upped their price objective for the stock from $70.00 to $75.00 in a research note on Friday, April 28th. StockNews.com began coverage on Fidelity National Information Services in a research note on Thursday, May 18th. They issued a hold rating on the stock. Finally, Credit Suisse Group decreased their price target on shares of Fidelity National Information Services from $75.00 to $70.00 in a research report on Friday, April 28th.

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Insider Buying and Selling

In other news, CFO Erik D. Hoag sold 3,451 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction dated Tuesday, June 20th. The stock was sold at an average price of $54.15, for a total value of $186,871.65. Following the completion of the transaction, the chief financial officer now owns 19,887 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $1,076,881.05. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is accessible through this link. In other news, Director Jeffrey A. Goldstein bought 958 shares of the stock in a transaction dated Monday, April 17th. The shares were acquired at an average cost of $57.24 per share, with a total value of $54,835.92. Following the purchase, the director now directly owns 5,404 shares in the company, valued at approximately $309,324.96. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which is accessible through this link. Also, CFO Erik D. Hoag sold 3,451 shares of the firms stock in a transaction dated Tuesday, June 20th. The shares were sold at an average price of $54.15, for a total value of $186,871.65. Following the sale, the chief financial officer now owns 19,887 shares in the company, valued at $1,076,881.05. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. 0.56% of the stock is currently owned by corporate insiders.

Institutional Trading of Fidelity National Information Services

Fidelity National Information Services Trading Up 3.4 %

Several institutional investors have recently bought and sold shares of FIS. Arlington Partners LLC lifted its stake in Fidelity National Information Services by 199.2% in the 4th quarter. Arlington Partners LLC now owns 398 shares of the information technology services providers stock valued at $27,000 after buying an additional 265 shares in the last quarter. AlphaMark Advisors LLC acquired a new stake in shares of Fidelity National Information Services in the first quarter worth approximately $27,000. Barrett & Company Inc. purchased a new stake in shares of Fidelity National Information Services during the first quarter worth approximately $27,000. Elequin Securities LLC acquired a new position in Fidelity National Information Services in the 4th quarter valued at $28,000. Finally, FNY Investment Advisers LLC purchased a new position in Fidelity National Information Services in the 1st quarter valued at $29,000. 90.21% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

FIS opened at $54.70 on Friday. The company has a quick ratio of 0.74, a current ratio of 0.74 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.51. The stocks fifty day moving average is $54.82 and its two-hundred day moving average is $60.85. The company has a market capitalization of $32.41 billion, a P/E ratio of -1.94, a PEG ratio of 0.84 and a beta of 0.82. Fidelity National Information Services has a 52 week low of $48.57 and a 52 week high of $105.16.

Fidelity National Information Services (NYSE:FIS  Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, April 27th. The information technology services provider reported $1.29 EPS for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $1.20 by $0.09. Fidelity National Information Services had a positive return on equity of 10.66% and a negative net margin of 114.79%. The firm had revenue of $3.51 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $3.41 billion. During the same quarter last year, the firm posted $1.47 earnings per share. The businesss revenue for the quarter was up .5% on a year-over-year basis. Analysts forecast that Fidelity National Information Services will post 5.95 earnings per share for the current year.

Fidelity National Information Services Dividend Announcement

The firm also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, June 23rd. Stockholders of record on Friday, June 9th were issued a $0.52 dividend. This represents a $2.08 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 3.80%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Thursday, June 8th. Fidelity National Information Servicess dividend payout ratio (DPR) is currently -7.38%.

About Fidelity National Information Services

(Free Report

Fidelity National Information Services, Inc provides technology solutions for financial institutions and businesses worldwide. It operates through Banking Solutions, Merchant Solutions, and Capital Market Solutions segments. The Banking Solutions segment provides core processing and ancillary applications; mobile and online banking; fraud, risk management, and compliance; electronic funds transfer and network; card and retail payment; wealth and retirement; and item processing and output solutions.

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First Hawaiian Bank increased its stake in Sociedad Quimica y Minera de Chile S.A. (NYSE:SQM  Free Report) by 25.1% during the 1st quarter, according to its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The firm owned 6,196 shares of the basic materials companys stock after buying an additional 1,244 shares during the period. First Hawaiian Banks holdings in Sociedad Quimica y Minera de Chile were worth $502,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

Several other institutional investors also recently added to or reduced their stakes in SQM. Capital International Investors purchased a new position in Sociedad Quimica y Minera de Chile in the 1st quarter worth about $184,773,000. Goldman Sachs Group Inc. increased its stake in Sociedad Quimica y Minera de Chile by 373.7% in the 2nd quarter. Goldman Sachs Group Inc. now owns 926,507 shares of the basic materials companys stock worth $77,391,000 after buying an additional 730,931 shares during the period. Robeco Institutional Asset Management B.V. purchased a new position in Sociedad Quimica y Minera de Chile in the 4th quarter worth about $53,992,000. Ninety One UK Ltd grew its holdings in Sociedad Quimica y Minera de Chile by 61,196.7% during the 4th quarter. Ninety One UK Ltd now owns 617,258 shares of the basic materials companys stock worth $49,282,000 after acquiring an additional 616,251 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Deutsche Bank AG grew its holdings in Sociedad Quimica y Minera de Chile by 392.1% during the 4th quarter. Deutsche Bank AG now owns 681,908 shares of the basic materials companys stock worth $54,444,000 after acquiring an additional 543,343 shares in the last quarter. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 17.35% of the companys stock.

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Analyst Ratings Changes

Several brokerages have issued reports on SQM. The Goldman Sachs Group began coverage on shares of Sociedad Quimica y Minera de Chile in a report on Friday, May 19th. They set a sell rating and a $60.00 target price on the stock. Scotiabank cut shares of Sociedad Quimica y Minera de Chile from a sector outperform rating to a sector perform rating and dropped their target price for the stock from $113.00 to $86.00 in a report on Monday, May 1st. JPMorgan Chase & Co. dropped their target price on shares of Sociedad Quimica y Minera de Chile from $134.00 to $97.00 and set an overweight rating on the stock in a report on Wednesday, April 19th. BMO Capital Markets dropped their target price on shares of Sociedad Quimica y Minera de Chile from $130.00 to $105.00 in a report on Wednesday, May 24th. Finally, Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft lowered their price target on shares of Sociedad Quimica y Minera de Chile from $95.00 to $90.00 and set a buy rating on the stock in a report on Thursday, April 20th. One research analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, four have assigned a hold rating and three have assigned a buy rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the company presently has an average rating of Hold and an average price target of $87.86.

Sociedad Quimica y Minera de Chile Stock Up 1.6 %

NYSE:SQM opened at $72.62 on Friday. Sociedad Quimica y Minera de Chile S.A. has a fifty-two week low of $60.21 and a fifty-two week high of $115.72. The stock has a market capitalization of $20.74 billion, a P/E ratio of 5.37, a P/E/G ratio of 0.39 and a beta of 0.95. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.44, a quick ratio of 1.81 and a current ratio of 2.48. The companys 50-day simple moving average is $69.52 and its 200-day simple moving average is $78.88.

Sociedad Quimica y Minera de Chile (NYSE:SQM  Free Report) last released its earnings results on Thursday, May 18th. The basic materials company reported $2.63 EPS for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of $3.12 by ($0.49). The company had revenue of $2.26 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $2.44 billion. Sociedad Quimica y Minera de Chile had a return on equity of 82.96% and a net margin of 35.24%. On average, equities analysts anticipate that Sociedad Quimica y Minera de Chile S.A. will post 12.45 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

Sociedad Quimica y Minera de Chile Increases Dividend

The business also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Thursday, May 11th. Investors of record on Friday, May 12th were paid a $3.2237 dividend. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Thursday, May 11th. This is a boost from Sociedad Quimica y Minera de Chiles previous quarterly dividend of $1.20. This represents a $12.89 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 17.76%. Sociedad Quimica y Minera de Chiles dividend payout ratio (DPR) is 60.50%.

About Sociedad Quimica y Minera de Chile

(Free Report)

Sociedad Quimica y Minera de Chile SA produces and distributes specialty plant nutrients, iodine derivatives, lithium derivatives, potassium chloride and sulfate, industrial chemicals, and other products and services. The company offers specialty plant nutrients, including potassium nitrate, sodium nitrate, sodium potassium nitrate, specialty blends, and other specialty fertilizers.

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First Hawaiian Bank reduced its stake in Builders FirstSource, Inc. (NYSE:BLDR  Free Report) by 24.0% during the first quarter, according to its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The firm owned 6,670 shares of the companys stock after selling 2,110 shares during the period. First Hawaiian Banks holdings in Builders FirstSource were worth $592,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

Other large investors have also bought and sold shares of the company. Fairfield Bush & CO. bought a new stake in shares of Builders FirstSource in the 1st quarter worth approximately $64,000. PNC Financial Services Group Inc. grew its position in shares of Builders FirstSource by 37.0% in the 1st quarter. PNC Financial Services Group Inc. now owns 8,329 shares of the companys stock worth $537,000 after buying an additional 2,249 shares during the last quarter. Great West Life Assurance Co. Can grew its position in shares of Builders FirstSource by 7.9% in the 1st quarter. Great West Life Assurance Co. Can now owns 105,236 shares of the companys stock worth $6,989,000 after buying an additional 7,745 shares during the last quarter. LSV Asset Management grew its position in shares of Builders FirstSource by 4.9% in the 1st quarter. LSV Asset Management now owns 143,900 shares of the companys stock worth $9,287,000 after buying an additional 6,700 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Cibc World Market Inc. grew its position in shares of Builders FirstSource by 106.0% in the 1st quarter. Cibc World Market Inc. now owns 8,339 shares of the companys stock worth $538,000 after buying an additional 4,290 shares during the last quarter. 94.57% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

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Builders FirstSource Stock Down 0.1 %

BLDR stock opened at $136.00 on Friday. Builders FirstSource, Inc. has a 1-year low of $52.70 and a 1-year high of $138.53. The business has a fifty day moving average price of $121.09 and a 200-day moving average price of $97.69. 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 market capitalization of $17.43 billion, a P/E ratio of 8.77 and a beta of 1.97.

Analyst Ratings Changes

Builders FirstSource ( NYSE:BLDR Free Report ) last posted its quarterly earnings results on Wednesday, May 3rd. The company reported $2.96 earnings per share for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $1.63 by $1.33. The firm had revenue of $3.88 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $3.57 billion. Builders FirstSource had a return on equity of 55.42% and a net margin of 11.68%. The companys revenue was down 31.6% on a year-over-year basis. During the same quarter in the previous year, the business earned $3.90 earnings per share. Equities analysts forecast that Builders FirstSource, Inc. will post 10.27 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

A number of equities research analysts have recently weighed in on the company. Truist Financial lifted their price objective on Builders FirstSource from $124.00 to $148.00 in a research report on Monday, June 26th. Barclays lifted their price target on Builders FirstSource from $150.00 to $160.00 in a research report on Wednesday, May 24th. Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft lifted their price target on Builders FirstSource from $110.00 to $138.00 in a research report on Friday, May 5th. BMO Capital Markets lifted their price target on Builders FirstSource from $92.00 to $100.00 in a research report on Friday, May 5th. Finally, DA Davidson lifted their price target on Builders FirstSource from $80.00 to $105.00 in a research report on Thursday, May 4th. Five investment analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and ten have assigned a buy rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat.com, the company has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $114.25.

Insider Activity at Builders FirstSource

In related news, insider Michael Alan Farmer sold 12,500 shares of the companys stock in a transaction on 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 completion of the sale, the insider now owns 62,122 shares in the company, valued at $6,769,434.34. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which can be accessed through this hyperlink. In other Builders FirstSource news, insider Michael Alan Farmer sold 12,500 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated Friday, May 5th. The stock was sold at an average price of $108.97, for a total value of $1,362,125.00. Following the completion of the sale, 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 accessible through this link. Also, insider Jami Beckmann sold 2,000 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated Tuesday, June 6th. The stock was sold at an average price of $120.69, for a total value of $241,380.00. Following the completion of the sale, the insider now owns 41,262 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $4,979,910.78. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. 1.90% of the stock is owned by company insiders.

Builders FirstSource Profile

(Free Report)

Builders FirstSource, Inc, together with its subsidiaries, manufactures and supplies building materials, manufactured components, and construction services to professional homebuilders, sub-contractors, remodelers, and consumers in the United States. It offers lumber and lumber sheet goods comprising dimensional lumber, plywood, and oriented strand board products that are used in on-site house framing; manufactured products, such as wood floor and roof trusses, steel roof trusses, wall panels, stairs, and engineered wood products; and windows, and interior and exterior door units, as well as interior trims and custom products comprising intricate mouldings, stair parts, and columns under the Synboard brand name.

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First Hawaiian Bank lessened its stake in shares of HCA Healthcare, Inc. (NYSE:HCA  Free Report) by 5.2% during the 1st quarter, according to its most recent 13F filing with the SEC. The firm owned 1,776 shares of the companys stock after selling 97 shares during the period. First Hawaiian Banks holdings in HCA Healthcare were worth $468,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

Several other hedge funds and other institutional investors also recently bought and sold shares of the stock. Arkadios Wealth Advisors raised its holdings in HCA Healthcare by 3.4% during the 4th quarter. Arkadios Wealth Advisors now owns 1,280 shares of the companys stock valued at $307,000 after buying an additional 42 shares during the period. Global Assets Advisory LLC raised its holdings in HCA Healthcare by 3.6% during the 4th quarter. Global Assets Advisory LLC now owns 1,227 shares of the companys stock valued at $294,000 after buying an additional 43 shares during the period. HMS Capital Management LLC grew its position in HCA Healthcare by 0.7% in the 1st quarter. HMS Capital Management LLC now owns 6,631 shares of the companys stock valued at $1,748,000 after acquiring an additional 43 shares during the last quarter. Geneos Wealth Management Inc. grew its position in HCA Healthcare by 56.4% in the 4th quarter. Geneos Wealth Management Inc. now owns 122 shares of the companys stock valued at $29,000 after acquiring an additional 44 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Northeast Financial Consultants Inc grew its position in HCA Healthcare by 1.9% in the 3rd quarter. Northeast Financial Consultants Inc now owns 2,378 shares of the companys stock valued at $437,000 after acquiring an additional 45 shares during the last quarter. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 62.86% of the companys stock.

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HCA Healthcare Trading Up 1.0 %

HCA Healthcare stock opened at $303.48 on Friday. HCA Healthcare, Inc. has a one year low of $164.47 and a one year high of $304.86. The stock has a market cap of $83.51 billion, a PE ratio of 15.22, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 1.89 and a beta of 1.64. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 157.23, a quick ratio of 1.04 and a current ratio of 1.23. The stock has a 50-day moving average of $279.78 and a two-hundred day moving average of $263.61.

HCA Healthcare Dividend Announcement

HCA Healthcare ( NYSE:HCA Free Report ) last announced its quarterly earnings data on Friday, April 21st. The company reported $4.93 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $3.99 by $0.94. HCA Healthcare had a negative return on equity of 1,157.58% and a net margin of 9.42%. The firm had revenue of $15.59 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $15.26 billion. During the same period last year, the business posted $4.12 earnings per share. The companys revenue for the quarter was up 4.3% compared to the same quarter last year. On average, research analysts anticipate that HCA Healthcare, Inc. will post 18.1 EPS for the current fiscal year.

The business also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, June 30th. Investors of record on Friday, June 16th were issued a dividend of $0.60 per share. This represents a $2.40 annualized dividend and a yield of 0.79%. The ex-dividend date was Thursday, June 15th. HCA Healthcares dividend payout ratio (DPR) is 12.04%.

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

Several brokerages have commented on HCA. Cantor Fitzgerald began coverage on HCA Healthcare in a research report on Thursday, April 20th. They issued an overweight rating and a $304.00 price objective on the stock. Royal Bank of Canada increased their price target on HCA Healthcare from $283.00 to $315.00 in a research report on Monday, April 24th. Wells Fargo & Company increased their price target on HCA Healthcare from $243.00 to $275.00 in a research report on Tuesday, April 25th. Credit Suisse Group increased their price target on HCA Healthcare from $282.00 to $311.00 in a research report on Monday, April 24th. Finally, Citigroup increased their price target on HCA Healthcare from $293.00 to $324.00 in a research report on Monday, April 24th. One investment analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, two have issued a hold rating, fifteen have given a buy rating and one has given a strong buy rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, the stock has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $299.83.

Insider Buying and Selling

In related news, SVP Kathryn A. Torres sold 4,473 shares of the firms stock in a transaction dated Monday, April 24th. The stock was sold at an average price of $288.38, for a total transaction of $1,289,923.74. Following the sale, the senior vice president now directly owns 22,243 shares of the companys stock, valued at $6,414,436.34. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which can be accessed through this hyperlink. In other HCA Healthcare news, SVP Kathryn A. Torres sold 4,473 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, April 24th. The stock was sold at an average price of $288.38, for a total value of $1,289,923.74. Following the sale, the senior vice president now directly owns 22,243 shares of the companys stock, valued at $6,414,436.34. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which can be accessed through the SEC website. Also, SVP P. Martin Paslick sold 3,034 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Tuesday, April 4th. The shares were sold at an average price of $265.00, for a total value of $804,010.00. Following the completion of the sale, the senior vice president now directly owns 24,643 shares in the company, valued at $6,530,395. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Insiders have sold a total of 12,733 shares of company stock valued at $3,518,389 over the last ninety days. Company insiders own 1.60% of the companys stock.

About HCA Healthcare

(Free Report)

HCA Healthcare, Inc, through its subsidiaries, provides health care services in the United States. It operates general and acute care hospitals that offers medical and surgical services, including inpatient care, intensive care, cardiac care, diagnostic, and emergency services; and outpatient services, such as outpatient surgery, laboratory, radiology, respiratory therapy, cardiology, and physical therapy.

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First Hawaiian Bank lifted its position in Novo Nordisk A/S (NYSE:NVO  Free Report) by 31.7% during the first quarter, according to its most recent 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The firm owned 3,040 shares of the companys stock after acquiring an additional 732 shares during the period. First Hawaiian Banks holdings in Novo Nordisk A/S were worth $484,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

Other hedge funds have also modified their holdings of the company. Schubert & Co raised its position in shares of Novo Nordisk A/S by 96.2% in the 4th quarter. Schubert & Co now owns 204 shares of the companys stock valued at $28,000 after acquiring an additional 100 shares during the period. Tsfg LLC acquired a new stake in shares of Novo Nordisk A/S in the 4th quarter valued at approximately $30,000. RFP Financial Group LLC acquired a new stake in shares of Novo Nordisk A/S in the 4th quarter valued at approximately $30,000. Worth Asset Management LLC acquired a new stake in shares of Novo Nordisk A/S in the 1st quarter valued at approximately $32,000. Finally, GPS Wealth Strategies Group LLC acquired a new stake in Novo Nordisk A/S during the 1st quarter worth approximately $39,000. 6.30% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

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Analyst Ratings Changes

Several analysts have commented on the stock. StockNews.com assumed coverage on shares of Novo Nordisk A/S in a report on Thursday, May 18th. They set a strong-buy rating on the stock. Credit Suisse Group upgraded shares of Novo Nordisk A/S from a neutral rating to an outperform rating in a report on Thursday, April 13th.

Novo Nordisk A/S Price Performance

NYSE:NVO opened at $161.83 on Friday. Novo Nordisk A/S has a 1-year low of $95.02 and a 1-year high of $172.97. The company has a current ratio of 0.86, a quick ratio of 0.67 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.30. The firm has a fifty day simple moving average of $163.14 and a 200 day simple moving average of $150.73. The stock has a market capitalization of $363.11 billion, a PE ratio of 42.59, a P/E/G ratio of 1.50 and a beta of 0.48.

Novo Nordisk A/S (NYSE:NVO  Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, May 4th. The company reported $1.27 EPS for the quarter, meeting the consensus estimate of $1.27. Novo Nordisk A/S had a net margin of 32.53% and a return on equity of 77.39%. The firm had revenue of $7.69 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $7.86 billion. On average, research analysts expect that Novo Nordisk A/S will post 5.06 EPS for the current fiscal year.

About Novo Nordisk A/S

(Free Report)

Novo Nordisk A/S, a healthcare company, engages in the research, development, manufacture, and marketing of pharmaceutical products worldwide. It operates in two segments, Diabetes and Obesity care, and Rare Disease. The Diabetes and Obesity care segment provides products in the areas of insulins, GLP-1 and related delivery systems, oral antidiabetic products, obesity, glucagon, needles, and other chronic diseases.

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Park Avenue Securities LLC lowered its holdings in The Southern Company (NYSE:SO  Free Report) by 3.7% during the first quarter, according to its most recent filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The fund owned 23,747 shares of the utilities providers stock after selling 923 shares during the quarter. Park Avenue Securities LLCs holdings in Southern were worth $1,652,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

A number of other large investors also recently modified their holdings of SO. Insight Folios Inc raised its stake in Southern by 3.8% during the 1st quarter. Insight Folios Inc now owns 95,049 shares of the utilities providers stock valued at $6,614,000 after purchasing an additional 3,510 shares during the last quarter. Willis Investment Counsel lifted its stake in shares of Southern by 6.3% in the first quarter. Willis Investment Counsel now owns 3,992 shares of the utilities providers stock valued at $278,000 after buying an additional 235 shares during the period. First United Bank & Trust increased its stake in Southern by 3.8% during the first quarter. First United Bank & Trust now owns 14,570 shares of the utilities providers stock valued at $1,014,000 after acquiring an additional 537 shares during the period. Elevated Capital Advisors LLC raised its holdings in Southern by 3.3% in the 1st quarter. Elevated Capital Advisors LLC now owns 23,795 shares of the utilities providers stock valued at $1,656,000 after acquiring an additional 761 shares in the last quarter. Finally, ForthRight Wealth Management LLC lifted its position in shares of Southern by 2.7% in the 1st quarter. ForthRight Wealth Management LLC now owns 12,854 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $894,000 after acquiring an additional 339 shares during the period. 63.25% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

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Insider Activity

In related news, CEO Stephen E. Kuczynski sold 5,000 shares of Southern stock in a transaction on Monday, June 12th. The stock was sold at an average price of $71.48, for a total transaction of $357,400.00. Following the completion of the sale, the chief executive officer now directly owns 136,284 shares of the companys stock, valued at $9,741,580.32. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which can be accessed through the SEC website. In other Southern news, CEO Stephen E. Kuczynski sold 5,000 shares of the stock in a transaction on Monday, June 12th. The shares were sold at an average price of $71.48, for a total value of $357,400.00. Following the sale, the chief executive officer now directly owns 136,284 shares in the company, valued at $9,741,580.32. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which is available at the SEC website. Also, CEO Thomas A. Fanning sold 50,000 shares of Southern stock in a transaction on Wednesday, May 10th. The stock was sold at an average price of $75.16, for a total transaction of $3,758,000.00. Following the transaction, the chief executive officer now directly owns 847,592 shares in the company, valued at $63,705,014.72. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Insiders have sold a total of 205,678 shares of company stock valued at $14,888,271 in the last 90 days. 0.28% of the stock is owned by company insiders.

Southern Stock Up 1.6 %

Shares of SO opened at $70.25 on Friday. The firm has a market capitalization of $76.60 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 22.66, a PEG ratio of 4.79 and a beta of 0.51. The Southern Company has a 52 week low of $58.85 and a 52 week high of $80.57. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.51, a quick ratio of 0.51 and a current ratio of 0.69. The businesss fifty day moving average price is $71.61 and its two-hundred day moving average price is $69.68.

Southern (NYSE:SO  Free Report) last released its earnings results on Thursday, April 27th. The utilities provider reported $0.79 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $0.71 by $0.08. Southern had a net margin of 11.53% and a return on equity of 10.78%. The company had revenue of $6.48 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $6.14 billion. During the same period in the prior year, the company posted $0.97 EPS. The companys revenue was down 2.5% compared to the same quarter last year. On average, analysts predict that The Southern Company will post 3.61 earnings per share for the current year.

Southern Increases Dividend

The firm also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Tuesday, June 6th. Shareholders of record on Monday, May 15th were given a dividend of $0.70 per share. This is a boost from Southerns previous quarterly dividend of $0.68. The ex-dividend date was Friday, May 12th. This represents a $2.80 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 3.99%. Southerns payout ratio is presently 90.32%.

Analyst Ratings Changes

A number of equities research analysts have weighed in on the stock. Morgan Stanley lifted their price target on shares of Southern from $57.00 to $63.00 and gave the stock an underweight rating in a research note on Thursday, April 20th. VNET Group reiterated a maintains rating on shares of Southern in a research note on Friday, April 28th. Guggenheim raised their target price on Southern from $73.00 to $79.00 in a research report on Monday, April 24th. StockNews.com upgraded Southern from a sell rating to a hold rating in a research report on Wednesday, May 17th. Finally, 1-800-FLOWERS.COM reissued a maintains rating on shares of Southern in a report on Friday, April 28th. Four analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, three have given a hold rating and eight have issued a buy rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat, Southern currently has a consensus rating of Hold and a consensus target price of $74.07.

About Southern

(Free Report)

The Southern Company, through its subsidiaries, engages in the generation, transmission, and distribution of electricity. It operates through three segments: Gas Distribution Operations, Gas Pipeline Investments, and Gas Marketing Services. The company also develops, constructs, acquires, owns, and manages power generation assets, including renewable energy projects and sells electricity in the wholesale market; and distributes natural gas in Illinois, Georgia, Virginia, and Tennessee, as well as provides gas marketing services, gas distribution operations, and gas pipeline investments operations.

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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  Free Report).

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The Gap, Inc. (NYSE:GPS  Free Report) has been given an average recommendation of Reduce by the fourteen brokerages that are currently covering the company, Marketbeat reports. Three investment analysts have rated the stock with a sell recommendation, ten have issued a hold recommendation and one has assigned a buy recommendation to the company. The average 12-month target price among brokers that have issued a report on the stock in the last year is $10.47.

Several research firms have recently issued reports on GPS. Robert W. Baird dropped their price target on shares of GAP from $12.00 to $10.00 in a research note on Friday, May 26th. Jefferies Financial Group cut their target price on GAP from $11.00 to $9.00 in a report on Tuesday, May 9th. Citigroup raised GAP from a sell rating to a neutral rating and decreased their price target for the company from $10.00 to $8.00 in a research note on Friday, May 19th. Telsey Advisory Group reissued a market perform rating and set a $15.00 target price on shares of GAP in a research report on Monday, March 6th. Finally, Bank of America dropped their price target on shares of GAP from $9.50 to $8.50 in a research report on Friday, May 26th.

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GAP Stock Up 1.2 %

Shares of GPS opened at $8.93 on Friday. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.84, a quick ratio of 0.68 and a current ratio of 1.47. GAP has a 52 week low of $7.22 and a 52 week high of $15.49. The stock has a market capitalization of $3.29 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of -55.81, a PEG ratio of 1.14 and a beta of 1.92. The stock has a fifty day moving average of $8.72 and a 200-day moving average of $10.71.

GAP Dividend Announcement

GAP ( NYSE:GPS Free Report ) last posted its earnings results on Thursday, May 25th. The apparel retailer reported $0.01 EPS for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of ($0.16) by $0.17. GAP had a positive return on equity of 0.86% and a negative net margin of 0.38%. The firm had revenue of $3.28 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $3.28 billion. During the same period last year, the company earned ($0.44) earnings per share. The businesss quarterly revenue was down 5.8% on a year-over-year basis. As a group, sell-side analysts anticipate that GAP will post 0.64 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Wednesday, July 26th. Stockholders of record on Wednesday, July 5th will be issued a dividend of $0.15 per share. The ex-dividend date is Monday, July 3rd. This represents a $0.60 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 6.72%. GAPs dividend payout ratio is -375.00%.

Institutional Inflows and Outflows

A number of hedge funds have recently made changes to their positions in GPS. Covestor Ltd lifted its stake in GAP by 208.4% during the 1st quarter. Covestor Ltd now owns 6,923 shares of the apparel retailers stock valued at $97,000 after acquiring an additional 4,678 shares in the last quarter. Captrust Financial Advisors raised its holdings in shares of GAP by 12.2% in the second quarter. Captrust Financial Advisors now owns 8,561 shares of the apparel retailers stock valued at $71,000 after purchasing an additional 930 shares during the last quarter. US Bancorp DE lifted its position in shares of GAP by 34.9% during the first quarter. US Bancorp DE now owns 12,100 shares of the apparel retailers stock valued at $170,000 after purchasing an additional 3,132 shares in the last quarter. Teachers Retirement System of The State of Kentucky purchased a new position in GAP during the third quarter worth about $290,000. Finally, New Mexico Educational Retirement Board grew its position in GAP by 15.4% in the 1st quarter. New Mexico Educational Retirement Board now owns 38,200 shares of the apparel retailers stock worth $384,000 after purchasing an additional 5,100 shares in the last quarter. 58.38% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

GAP Company Profile

(Free Report

The Gap, Inc operates as an apparel retail company. The company offers apparel, accessories, and personal care products for men, women, and children under the Old Navy, Gap, Banana Republic, and Athleta brands. Its products include denim and khakis; eyewear, jewelry, shoes, handbags, and fragrances; and fitness and lifestyle products for use in yoga, training, sports, travel, and everyday activities for women and girls.

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Self-portraits created in stained glass by students from a Belfast school are to go on display as a permanent fixture.

The glass tiles, created by year nine and 10 students at Malone Integrated College, under the guidance of visual artist Kerrie Hanna, will be forged together to create a colourful bespoke window made up of a series of individual panes.

The new window will go on display at the school in September.

It is the final element of a two-year art project the students have been engaged in as part of the Creative Schools Programme, a cross-government programme funded by the Arts Council of Northern Ireland through National Lottery funding, the Education Authority and the Executive Office through Urban Villages Initiative.

Malone College was one of 11 schools located in identified urban village areas awarded funding in 2011. Each of the schools received up to 15,000 of funding to develop an arts-led project which would connect with the school curriculum and support student development.

The pupils at Malone College have had the opportunity to step outside of their normal school activities to take part in specially devised drama and art sessions led by professional artists and focused on encouraging creative learning and improving student confidence.

With 26 different languages spoken by students within the school, a focus of the project has been on celebrating cultural diversity and promoting inclusion.

Art and design teacher Lynsay-Erin Mercer has led on the programme and said the experimental approach has made a real difference to students in the wake of Covid, promoting positive self-expression and encouraging new creative ways of thinking and learning.

She said: We wanted this project to be a collaboration, with input from myself as the teacher, as well as the artist and the children.

We discussed ideas and what emerged was that the children wanted to look at their identity and some of the different cultures represented here within the school.

We explored portraiture and looked at pattern development from around the world and the children worked with Kerrie to create the stained glass.

The project has been a real success.

The children have learnt new skills, different to what they would generally do in class, and it has also been good for my own professional development.

Ill be able to take what I have learned through to other classes and year groups.

Its been a really worthwhile experience and the children can all say, with pride, that they have been a part of something really special.

Director of Urban Villages Joan OHara said: The Urban Villages Initiative is delighted to be able to support this innovative project through the Creative Schools Partnership Programme.

The work the students are involved in will help them develop a wide range of skills through creative learning.

Having this beautiful stained-glass piece as a permanent installation within the school building showcases and celebrates diversity and inclusion.

This will encourage students to share their voices not just within school but wider, in their local community and will provide new life experiences, help generate new thinking, new viewpoints and new ideas which is at the heart of building good relations.

The 11 schools taking part in the Creative Schools Partnership Programme are Lisneal College, Belfast Boys Model School, St Josephs Boys School, Blessed Trinity College, Ashfield Girls High School, St Cecilias College, Mercy College Belfast, St Vincents Centre, Belfast Model School for Girls, Malone Integrated College, and St Colms High School.
Remla Parthasarathy In elementary school, July Fourth meant little more to me than playing outside with my cousins from Chicago, Boston and Middletown, eating lots of rice, chapati and curry while others ate burgers and hot dogs and trying to catch glimpses of fireworks from Bassett Park to the north and some country club to the south. That changed in 1990 when I became a United States citizen.

My mother and I were naturalized together in a ceremony on July 5, 1990, onboard a decommissioned U.S. ship in the Buffalo and Erie County Naval & Military Park. I dont know why, but we had been invited to a bigger than usual, grander than you can imagine naturalization ceremony that seemed to be a part of an extended July Fourth celebration. Local celebrity WKBW Eyewitness News anchor Irv Weinstein was the guest speaker. It was huge.

How can I adequately express how much that day meant to me, and because of that day, how differently I see July Fourth?

As proud as I am of my Indian origin and as much as I love my Indian culture, as a preteen and then teenage girl, I had felt trapped and suppressed living in India. I had been expected to have an arranged marriage, my education had not been a priority and violence against women had been commonplace. More than anything else, I wanted to be free. I associated that hope of freedom with America and being American.

Even though I returned to the states for the last years of high school and college, not having my U.S. citizenship kept me tethered to India. For more than two decades, I had straddled two continents, not belonging in either. I needed that to end. Becoming a U.S. citizen was something I desperately wanted. I truly believed it would enable me to achieve dreams I didnt even know I had. I was not wrong.

Most of July 5, 1990, passed in a daze, but there are things I remember in vivid, visceral detail. Excitement and nervousness mingled into a heady combination giving the butterflies living inside me enough strength to keep me afloat. I still remember how proud I felt standing up, lifting my right hand, taking the oath of allegiance with my mother, and choosing this country to be mine. I still remember the elation of feeling, Now, I will have possibilities that would never have been open to me. My body still remembers feeling  finally  like I had a right to be here and could one day belong.

This country is not perfect. As a nation we are still learning about our true history and reckoning with our racialized past. We continue to deal with xenophobic and anti-immigrant sentiments. Individually, many of us have embraced growth and are trying, in big or small ways, to understand what we can do to be more inclusive, be more accepting, be more equitable.

Personally, I am struggling with balancing trying to do no harm and trying to be more just. I feel like Im failing. Is my saying that July Fourth is important to me continuing to silence the voices of Indigenous people? Is it ignoring the mournful wail of millions as Frederick Douglass July Fourth speech references? How can I own something meaningful to me without negating someone elses reality?

Im not sure. But this July Fourth I will look at the photo that my father took of my mother and me 33 years ago, see the solemnity, pride and hope in my eyes, and be grateful for my chosen nation.
James Nesbitt has praised the absolutely amazing work of end-of-life charity Marie Curie after visiting residents and staff at its Belfast hospice.

The Northern Irish actor, who has starred in Cold Feet and Bloodlands, spent nearly two hours speaking with patients, family members and staff.

The 58-year-old  who was invited by his friend who works at the hospice, Dr Catherine Doherty  said his experience was different to what he had expected.

He said: I suppose I was a little reticent before coming into the Marie Curie hospice but I was blown away by the place, the sheer positivity and warmth of it all and all the staff. It was absolutely amazing.

The emphasis is on living well and it was completely different to what I thought it was.

The patients told me that their time in the hospice was like being in a home from home and I could feel that. Its a standard of care that I wish everyone could have.

It was lovely to see one woman have her little dog in her room to visit her along with her husband and to hear how family parties and events are organised by the staff for the patients.

Mr Nesbitt wished the staff at Marie Curie well as they prepare to celebrate the charitys 75th anniversary on July 6.

Paula Heneghan, strategic partnerships and services associate director of Marie Curie Northern Ireland, thanked Nesbitt for giving his time and bringing cheer to patients and staff.

James chatted and spent time with everyone and was very sensitive and warm with our patients, who really appreciated his visit, she said.

He showed a real interest in end-of-life care for people and what we do at Marie Curie and it was a pleasure to have hosted him.

Thanks, too, to Dr Doherty and the rest of the medical team for all they do for our patients.

Marie Curie provides end-of-life care for people at home and in hospices, helping to manage symptoms of terminal illnesses.
Louth County Council's Historian in Residence Dr Thomas Tormey will host a talk From executions to elections: Louth in 1923 in Dundalk Library at 3pm on Friday July 7th as part of the 2023 Decade of Centenaries programme.

Dr Tormey will be discussing the tumultuous events of 100 years ago marked by state executions and house burnings that characterised the bitter closing stages of the Civil War, and the 1923 General Election which saw the beginning of 'Civil War politics' in Ireland. Dundalk historian Dr Ciara Stewart will introduce and join Dr Tormey in conversation.

Drawing on his years of research into the Decade of Centenaries, Dr Tormey will use this lecture to talk through both the local and national processes at play and how they have been debated since.

In January and February 1923, Louth hit the headlines of national newspapers for being a centre of the Free State government's executions policy and the wave of house burnings that swept across the county.

The year continued in tumultuous fashion with the closing engagements of the guerrilla phase of the Civil War and the anti-Treatyite IRA's dump arms order. This was followed by the General Election of 1923, the first election in the history of Ireland under which women voted on the same basis as men.

These events, which both deepened the bitterness of the Civil War while also setting the state on the path to at least partial reconciliation and democratic contests for power, shaped modern Ireland for decades to come.
During Justice Neil Gorsuchs six years on the Supreme Court, the justices have faced 10 cases involving the rights of Native American individuals or tribes. Every time, Gorsuch has voted in favor of Indian rights  including thrice in the past two weeks. Whether in the majority or the minority, he defends tribal sovereignty with power and passion.

Many have professed amazement that so conservative a judge would defend the rights of Indigenous people. It should instead serve as a warning against our tendency to essentialize the justices, to carve out categories of conservative and liberal to fit our prejudices.

The strength with which Gorsuch writes enlivens our debates and has much to teach us about subjects we often know less about than we imagine. Writing for the 5-4 majority in McGirt v. Oklahoma, the courts controversial 2020 ruling that a large chunk of Oklahoma still comprises the Creek Reservation established in 1833, he rejected the argument that the states longstanding assertion of authority over the territory in question should be taken into account: To hold otherwise would be to elevate the most brazen and longstanding injustices over the law, both rewarding wrong and failing those in the right.

Two years later, when the majority backed off the implications of the ruling, Gorsuchs dissent, signed by three other justices, was sharp: Tribes are not private organizations within state boundaries. Their reservations are not glorified private campgrounds. Tribes are sovereigns. He reminded readers that in the early 19th century, Chief Justice John Marshall stood up heroically to President Andrew Jackson. Now? Where this Court once stood firm, today it wilts.

In June, Gorsuch voted with the majority to uphold the provision of federal law that requires that American Indian children in the child welfare system be placed with family members or tribal caretakers if possible. In a concurring opinion joined by Justices Sonia Sotomayor and Ketanji Brown Jackson, he brushed aside concerns about discrimination, citing the bedrock principle that Indian status is a political rather than racial classification.

As has become his trademark, he spent a large chunk of his opinion setting out history that most of us only think we know. For example, he waxed indignant as he described the Indian boarding schools that were set up in the late 19th century:

Upon the childrens arrival, the boarding schools would often seek to strip them of nearly every aspect of their identity. The schools would take away their Indian names and give them English ones. The schools would cut their hair  a point of shame in many native communities. ... Resistance could invite punishments that included withholding food and whipping.

So strong is Gorsuchs language that activists have taken to quoting him. In McGirt, he explained that the court was simply decreeing that the tribe remained in control of the land these treaties promised. One scholar responded that Gorsuch had penned a five-word bumper sticker slogan for what many Indigenous nations would likely demand in a Third Reconstruction.

Often Gorsuch strikes an almost elegiac note. Concurring in the aforementioned case upholding the preference for placing Indian children with Indian families, he warned that the alternative presented an existential threat to the continued vitality of tribes. The mystery of Gorsuchs passionate support for tribes is something many federal and state officials over the years saw as a feature, not as a flaw.

Writing for the four dissenters in the recent decision denying a plea by the Navajo Nation to clarify the tribes water rights under its treaty with the federal government, Gorsuch lamented that the Supreme Courts decision leaves the Navajo in a familiar spot  they must again fight for themselves to secure their homeland and all that must necessarily come with it. And, as always, he supplied context, pointing out that tribe members living on the reservation make do with about one-seventh the daily water ration of the rest of us.

His staunch support for tribal rights has created a buzz in the legal world  and raised questions about the basis of his support. But at this point, the bigger mystery is why commentators keep expressing surprise.

As others have noted, a number of tribes endorsed Gorsuchs confirmation when the left was busy opposing it. Questioned by members of the Senate Judiciary Committee, Gorsuch offered brief versions of what he would later write as a justice. Tribes are, as you know, sovereign nations, he said. He criticized the federal governments treatment of Native Americans and added, theyve had a long time trying to control their tribal lands.

In his 2019 book A Republic if You Can Keep It, casting about for an example of the proposition that all administrative actions should be tested before an independent judge, Gorsuch settles on an opinion he wrote as an appellate judge, upholding the right of a Native American inmate to leave protective custody in order to access the prisons sweat lodge to practice his faith.

Everybody has a theory about what moves Gorsuch. The most common explanation is that he votes as he does because, as a Westerner, he has a special understanding of Native American concerns. But his fellow Westerners William Rehnquist and Byron White joined the courts dreadful 1990 opinion sharply curtailing Native American religious rights, and Westerner Sandra Day OConnor concurred in the judgment. Its simply not possible to imagine Gorsuch siding with a majority that conceded that its approach will place at a relative disadvantage those religious practices that are not widely engaged in and then defended that outcome as the unavoidable consequence of democratic government. Should the issue arise again, he would surely treat us to a 20-page seminar on the nations efforts to extinguish the religions of its Indigenous population.

Unless Gorsuch writes a memoir, well probably never know the source of his remarkable empathy for tribal sovereignty. But those of us who agree with him about its importance are glad hes up there fighting.

Stephen L. Carter is a Bloomberg Opinion columnist. A professor of law at Yale University, he is author, most recently, of Invisible: The Story of the Black Woman Lawyer Who Took Down Americas Most Powerful Mobster.
WANT to immerse yourself in some summer romance?

Theres a raft of new novels to choose from, whether youre after contemporary, historical or word-of-mouth recommendations.

Here are 10 of the best...

1. Talking At Night, by Claire Daverley (Michael Joseph, Jul 6)

Talking At Night is a generation-spanning romance about opposites Will and Rosie who meet as teenagers and fall in love over secret walks and phone calls.

Despite events outside their control driving them apart, their lives come back together at different stages, rekindling that romantic chemistry.

The Rachel Incident by Caroline ODonoghue

2. The Rachel Incident, by Caroline ODonoghue (Virago)

This novel by Cork author ODonoghue centres on Rachel and her gay best friend James, who form a close relationship while he tries to help her get closer to an attractive married professor, with complications and emotional turmoil following in their wake.

Its set in Catholic Ireland so there are even more crosses to bear, but it will make you laugh and wince with its depiction of 20-something life, from the author of Promising Young Woman.

Love, Theoretically by Ali Hazelwood.

3. Love, Theoretically, by Ali Hazelwood (Sphere)

A science-backdrop romcom from the author of TikTok hits The Love Hypothesis and Love On The Brain sees a theoretical physicist by day make up her earnings as a fake girlfriend to her clients.

All goes swimmingly, until she meets an attractive, arrogant older brother of her favourite client.

4. The Situationship, by Taylor-Dior Rumble (#Merky Books, Aug 17)

Contemporary romcom in which a 20-something heroine goes on a dating app and instantly connects with a handsome photographer, who is everything she wants.

He seems to be on the same page, but they remain two people dating who are more than friends but less than official.

Its a fun read which explores emotional vulnerability and the pitfalls of modern romance.

5. Sunburn, by Chloe Michelle Howarth (Verve)

This tender debut set in a small Irish town in the early 1990s over one long, hot summer, sees a young woman struggling with her relationship with the handsome boy next door, when she becomes obsessed and falls in love with a female school friend and begins to lead a double life.

6. Tom Lake, by Ann Patchett (Bloomsbury, Aug 1)

A love story told in two time frames sees a married woman and three grown-up daughters return to the fold on a fruit farm in Michigan during Covid.

To pass the time, the children ask their mother, a former actor, about her time in the 1980s in a theatre company, when she had an on-off romance with an actor who went on to become a famous film star.

Through the timelines, she relives her earlier life as a promising young actor and the romance which she encountered.

A Song Of Me & You by Mike Gayle.

7. A Song Of Me And You, by Mike Gayle (Hodder & Stoughton, Jul 6)

Its 25 years since the best-selling authors debut, My Legendary Girlfriend, put Gayle at the forefront of a new trend - emotional, funny and uplifting stories from male authors, with male characters at the heart of the narrative.

His latest charts the fortunes of Helen and Brad, who parted as 18-year-olds and meet up 20 years later, when Helen is a part time teacher with a love rat husband.

When Ben - now a multi-millionaire rockstar - turns up on her doorstep, can they rekindle the past?

8. Ever After, by Kate Eberlen (Orion, Jul 6)

The best-selling author of Miss You is back with an escapist, emotional, romantic story which follows Tess and Gus, who have a holiday romance - but is their love strong enough to survive the challenges of two complicated lives?

Set between Florence, Sicily, Margate and London.

9. The Roughest Draft, by Emily Wibberley and Austin Siegemund-Broka (Macmillan)

TikTok stars and married couple Wibberley and Siegemund-Broka bring readers a tale about two erstwhile bright literary writers whose co-written book had topped the best-seller list. But following this, their partnership ended on bad terms (for reasons neither would divulge to the public) and they havent spoken since.

However, theres one final book to deliver on contract and, facing crossroads in their lives, they are forced to reunite and end up in the tiny Florida town where they wrote their previous bestseller.

Working through the reasons theyve hated each other for the past three years isnt easy, especially not while writing a romantic novel.

Same Time Next Summer by Annabel Monaghan. RIGHT: Sunburn

10. Same Time Next Summer, by Annabel Monaghan (Hodder)

This nostalgic read from the best-selling author of Nora Goes Off Script centres on a buttoned-up, engaged woman whos due to marry her conventional fiance.

He wants to get married in Manhattan, but she takes him to her parents beachside holiday home on Long Island to look for an alternative venue - and runs into her first love, who she hasnt seen for 14 years.
A campaign to raise funds for a life-changing operation for a little Cork boy with a rare form of Cerebral Palsy has been a huge success, far exceeding the 3,000 set for it by the organiser.

Trish Dorgan is founder of Blarney-based fitness camp Visionfitness360.

I am fundraising for a little local legend, three-year-old Jerry OShea, said Trish.

On June 24, the entrepreneur and fitness trainer completed four miles, every four hours, over a 24-hour period with the help of club members and friends.

The 4-4-24 event took place at the Gaelscoil Mhuscrai in Blarney, starting at 12 noon, and finishing by 12 noon on Sunday, June 25.

So far, 4,090 has been raised towards a goal of 3,000, and the public are asked to keep making donations to the gofundme page at Make 3-year-old Jerry's SDR wish happen.

Jerry OShea from Vicarstown was born at 29 weeks weighing 1.6kg.

He was diagnosed with a brain injury at four weeks old which led to a diagnosis of right hemiplegic spastic cerebral palsy.

It is difficult for Jerry to use the muscles on the right-hand side of his body, said Trish.

Selective Dorsal Rhizotomy (SDR) is an operation used to reduce spasticity, or muscle stiffness, in some children with Cerebral Palsy.

Jerry has been accepted for pioneering SDR surgery at St Louis Children's Hospital in the USA. This surgery is not available in Ireland.

The family's hopes are that this vital surgery will reduce Jerrys spasticity permanently, reduce his levels of pain and improve his balance and endurance, said Trish.

SUPPORT

Trish said the fundraiser was fantastic with support coming from friends and family.

Jerrys Mum and I, and another girl, we completed all the legs of the four miles, every four hours.

"And other people from around, they would do a leg here and there.

We had a group of people doing the 12 noon, the 4pm, the 8pm, the 12 midnight, 4am and 8am, and we finished at 12 noon on the Sunday.

"The support from everyone was great.

Trish learned of Jerrys condition through meeting his Mum, Emma, at her classes.

Through conversations, Trish decided to get the ball rolling on a fundraiser and hit upon the idea of the 4-4-24 event.

There were a lot of fundraisers going on for him at different stages. I just wanted to give a little bit, added Trish.

Jerry is due to fly out to St Louis, Missouri, from Cork Airport next Thursday, July 6.
A 26-YEAR-OLD man who was facing jail for carrying a knife in an incident where he had disarmed the man accompanying him has been given a longer sentence, but it has been suspended in full.

James ODriscoll, of 68 Noonan Rd, Cork, was convicted of having a knife during the incident in 2021.

Garda Thomas McKenna told a hearing at Cork Circuit Appeals Court that the incident occurred just outside Cork District Court on Anglesea St on the morning of Thursday, October 18, 2021.

The man with James ODriscoll produced a knife and chased another man with it.

James ODriscoll then took the knife off the man with him and they both got into a car, which he (James ODriscoll) drove away.

Gda McKenna said that when he came on the scene on Anglesea St he saw the appellant with the knife.

However, he accepted on investigation that it was the other man who had the knife originally, and that the appellant took it from him.

Gda McKenna said that James ODriscoll was totally co-operative.

Alan ODwyer, barrister, said the appellant was not the one going around brandishing the knife.

He suggested that the appellant was very easy to deal with from the garda point of view. Gda McKenna agreed with this.

Judge Helen Boyle said regarding the four-month jail term under appeal from Cork District Court that she would increase it to 12 months, but it would be a suspended sentence.
Plans for RTE and budget speculation are among Sunday's front page stories.

Like many of the papers this week, the Sunday Independent focused on ongoing issues at RTE following the fallout from the payments scandal, reporting the Cabinet will take an "unprecedented move" to use special powers to look into the broadcaster's accounts.

The Irish Sunday Mirror reads: 'Tubs' Cus: Scrap TV Licence', reporting that Ryan Tubridy's cousin, comedian David McSavage, has called for an end to the annual fee.

The Irish Mail on Sunday claims the Government wants to 'split RTE in half', which the paper reports would lead to up to 400 redundancies and a capping of all salaries at 176,000.

Finally, the Business Post's headline reads: 'McGrath and Donohoe set to woo voters with 5bn budget package', speculating it will comprise 1 billion in tax cuts and at least 4.2 billion in spending measures.

In Britain, French riots, killer asbestos in schools and taxpayer funds directed to removing asylum seekers were among the stories making the front pages of the papers on Sunday.

The Independent continues to report on the riots in France, saying there were more than 1,300 arrests on Friday night.

The Sunday Times says 10,000 people have been killed by asbestos in schools across the UK.

Meanwhile, the Sunday Express reveals hundreds of millions in taxpayer funds has been given to organisations fighting to remove asylum seekers to Rwanda.

The Sunday Telegraph says hundreds of miles of overheard power cables and pylons will be fast tracked in an effort to reach net-zero targets.

The Sunday Mail say Met Police officers at London Pride have been banned from wearing badges that commemorate fallen officers.

The Sunday Mirror looks into the Stephen Lawrence murder case, with the paper talking to one of Lawrences best friends who accused the Met Police of sabotage.

And the Daily Star says Britain is facing an invasion of boozed up hornets who like to sip beer and wine.
Stephen Maguire

One of Ireland's most popular radio presenters has swapped a life behind the microphone for a life serving God.

Shaun Doherty was one of the country's top DJs thanks to his popular chatshow on Donegal's Highland Radio which aired for almost 30 years.

But the well-known broadcaster has just been ordained to the priesthood in Co Derry.

Shaun was officially ordained on Sunday by the Bishop of Derry, the Most Reverend Donal McKeown.

Six years ago Mr Doherty decided to embark on new projects and quit his job behind the microphone.

But even family and friends were left shocked when Shaun announced that he was studying to become a priest.

He was later ordained a Deacon at St Paul's Basilica in Rome in 2022 where he has continued his studies.

Fr Shaun Doherty with Bishop Donal McKeown after his ordination in St Eugene's Cathedral, Derry. Photo: NW Newspix

At his ordination on Sunday at St Eugenes Cathedral in Derry city, Bishop McKeown warned the newly ordained Rev Doherty of the challenges ahead.

He said there is much healing to be done in the Irish church because so much power was abused in the past.

By a life of prayer and generosity, of courage and honesty, you actually can be a fabulous advertisement for Jesus, he told Rev Shaun.

Around the world, friends of Shauns joined together in prayer as he received the Sacrament of Holy Orders.

Among the many poignant moments of the ceremony was Rev Shaun being vested by his cousin, Fr Daniel Doherty, who is based in Scotland.

Born in Stoke-on-Trent in England in 1964, Rev Doherty's late parents Mary and George were from Derry and Inishowen.

In a recent interview with The Net Diocesan newspaper, he said that Columba Community founder Fr Neal Carlin was hugely influential in his decision to follow the call to God.

The late Fr Carlin of Inishowen was also the founder of White Oaks Rehabilitation Centre.

Rev Shaun also said he wanted to help people who are suffering from addiction and those who have issues with anxiety, depression, and loneliness.

He said: I look forward to being involved in the lives of people. I particularly feel that I would like to be with people on the margins. There are so many issues and problems today, so many feeling hopeless.

"Hopefully, my story will be a source of encouragement for people that there is always hope because of the goodness of God. His love and generosity is boundless and never ends.

Fr Shaun Doherty received an applause from fellow priests after his ordination in Derry. Photo: NW Newspix

After his ordination a reception was held for family and friends of Rev Shaun in the Iosas Centre and Celtic Prayer Centre near Muff on the Donegal/Derry border.

Rev Shaun will celebrate his first Mass in St Columbs Church in Derry's Waterside, on Monday, July 3rd, the Feast of St Thomas the Apostle, at 7.30pm.

He is expected to serve in the Derry Diocese once he has been ordained.
News / Local

by Staff reporter

A Harare man appeared at the magistrates courts last Thursday facing charges of raping his daughter on several occasionsProsecutors said the accused from Waterfalls would blackmail his daughter by saying he would commit suicide if she refused to sleep with him.He was remanded in custody to July 20.On a date unknown but in May 2023, the accused's wife left home for Budiriro leaving the man with the complaint and her 10-year-old brother.At around 10pm on the same day the accused advised the complainant to go and sleep in his bedroom claiming that he was going to work.Later at night, the accused forced himself on the girl.The accused continued to sexually abuse his daughter on several occasions.On June 25, a community care worker was tipped of the sexual abuse and a police report was filed, leading to his arrest.
Farmers have been warned to lower the risk of barn fires following a recent spike in the number of incidents across the UK.

Issuing the warning is Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service, which said it had experienced a rise in barn fire incidents requiring attendance by its crews.

This increase could be partly due to the early warm and dry weather conditions during May and June, which the service said had provided earlier hay-making opportunities.

Figures show that each year in the UK on average around 1,600 farm buildings and 85,000 areas of grassland are destroyed by fire.

To help lower these numbers, the fire service has issued a farm fire safety reminder and advice to farmers.

One piece of advice is that stored bales must not have a moisture content greater than 22%.

A Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service spokesperson said: "Bales that have a moisture content of 22% or higher pose a risk of increasing in heat once stacked, leading to overheating and possible spontaneous combustion."

Baled hay, straw and bracken should have a moisture content of between 18-20% before being stacked in storage, the service added.

It added that the temperature of bales should be below 35C before being brought off the field for storage.

The spokesperson said: "Bales with a temperature above 35C can maintain their own heat generation to a point where spontaneous combustion can occur."

And where possible, stacks should be sited separately, away from other farm buildings, especially livestock buildings, with farmers told to keep stacks to a reasonable size, well apart and dry.

"Avoid storing fertilisers, chemicals, gas cylinders, tractors and other machinery in barns containing bales. Ensure that all electrical equipment and wiring is well-maintained," the service spokesperson said.

"Signs of bales overheating may include discolouration or browning in some areas, stacks seen to be steaming early in the morning or late evening, the presence of a sweet, sickly smell and hay turning to a tobacco-like form."
News / Local

by Staff reporter

A Harare woman has accused her daughter of acting like a person possessed with demons.Florence Chimodzajeko from Avondale told magistrate Sharon Mashavira that she has not known peace after her daughter Tafirei Mugwani returned to Zimbabwe from Europe."I am sick and tired of the abuse that this child has put me through," Chimodzajeko said."She is behaving like someone possessed by demons."She has also harassed my grandsons through squeezing their manhood saying she wants to hurt me the same way I allegedly hurt her son."Mugwani accused her mother of refusing to tell the truth on circumstances leading to her son getting burnt in 2020."She said it was the maid, but they never reported the case to the police," Mugwani said.She also accused her mother and late father of raising her in a toxic environment.
Next Story : Stay Har Pal Fashionable With Amazon Prime Day Shopping Event On 15-16 July

A new album, new challenges, a new start. I.M, in overdrive, is at his creative best.You know, a good thing is a good thing. Real recognises real, says I.M through the window of a Zoom call from Seoul, on the eve of the release of his second solo EP, Overdrive. Its a telling statement that offers insight into his psyche, both as an artiste and a human being. For context, I.M (Im Chang-kyun) is a member of the K-pop phenomenon Monsta X , which debuted back in 2015. When I have confidence in it, I feel like fans have confidence too. And what Im sure about, fans are very much a hundred percent sure about too, he states softly, about his state of mind during release week  a stretch that could, understandably, be exhausting and nerve-wracking for an artiste. Its also heartening to see his faith in the symbiotic relationship with Monbebe, MXs global fanbase. So, if its a really good thing, people are going to recognise me. And, of course, lots of people are going to listen to my album; I really believe that, he adds calmly, as he sits in a spartan room, completely make-up free, swathed in a black hoodie, with dusty, dark blue hair framing his forehead. A single-strand pearl choker with a gold clasp makes its presence felt around his neck. However dressed down I.M might be, he always has style. That quiet confidence is born from artistic evolution, and this current six-track album offers proof.Eight years is a lifetime in an industry that moves at an almost terminal velocity. While he might have debuted as a rapper  a ferociously good one  I.M has augmented the proficiency levels of his existing palette of skills through time. His talents as a vocalist, producer and lyricist were already being registered with tracks for Monsta X. Songs such as the lush Night View off the album Fatal Love (2020), or the arguably sexy Rotate off the One Of A Kind EP (2021)  two examples from a long list of his productions for the band. As far as individual pursuits go, Overdrive follows on the heels of Duality, which was released in February 2021. The searing five-track EP was almost like a letter that detailed the contrarian nature of being human  at times nihilistic, at times wistful  concretising his abilities as a soloist.Much has changed in two years. I.M has moved his solo endeavours to a new company (Sony Music Korea), as of 2022, while still a full-time member of Monsta X with his old establishment. Hes effectively on double duty, and Overdrive  which he started working on in autumn last year  is the product of this change. It has been almost two years since Duality, and two years is a long time; theres been lots (of change)  new environment, new things and new inspiration. And thats affected my album as well. I was quite busy and Im still with my team  with my Monsta X members  but Ive also changed my company, so I still need to do my stuff. And I want the team stuff too, so lots of things are happening! The reason he switched firms for his own music was to not get too comfortable. It was a decision that he did not make lightly. I think change is important as a chance to develop myself, he states.This philosophy has manifested itself in so many ways in Overdrive, especially in terms of genre. I.M has a proclivity towards moodier, atmospheric music and drenched synths that drape a variety of emotions around the listener. Weary, questioning, introspective, yearning, sensual  theyre all in there. This time, hes upped the ante on instrumentation, his own vocals, and composition with the blending of genres as diverse as jazz and trap. Especially with this album, my environment has changed I really wanted to do something with lots of challenges in lots of genres. Of course, jazz and the genres that Ive done before, and which Im really good at, but also something very new, he muses. I also wanted to put out songs with all vocals, not rap. I felt like I was kind of stuck in just that one mood that Im always doing. Of course, since I make my own music, there is a scent of me in whatever I make. Its all by me. But I really wanted to change a bit of it. Like, if the perfume is from Tom Ford, you still have the original Tom Ford-like scent, but the detail is changing. So, I wanted to do a bit of detail changing. I think my genre has changed like that. In reality, he has moved from Tom Ford to Frederic Malle (hes been known to wear Portrait Of A Lady in the past, FYI.) Oh yeah, I agree with that, he laughs.The title track, Overdrive, sums up his current frame of mind. Heat my engine harder til I die. Speedin on my lane, go overdrive is a refrain that spills over a rolling, darkly synth-laden, booming slow-trap tune. It comes from a real place, where hes pushing himself to grow as an artiste, and knows its the right time to test his own limits, on his own terms. God Damn, the title track from Duality, was written during a difficult time in his life, and it echoed in its lyrics, just as his head space reflects in this song as well. Im going straight, looking forward and running in my lane. Thats the fact. So, I need to overdrive myself. Even though Im overused, he says, wryly. As he did for Duality, he named the EP after all the songs were created  for those reasons. I was wondering what I should name this album, he recalls. Cause you need to organise all the six tracks and you have to get the most meaning out of them. So, I was thinking about how Im on a new start and Im over driving, so that was it. Album name: Overdrive!Blame follows on the track list and its a slow burn where it seems as if two people are stuck in a cycle together. Knowing that something is over, but not being able to come to terms with it, with lyrics such as, What is it that you really wanna say, I cannot get this over. Smoking all the pain to feel you deeply again, Hope I never get sober. Its another indicator of I.Ms abilities as a lyricist to understand all those little, important spaces that lie between us as people. Hes modest about the track. Well, I didnt really detail the songs because I make the melody first when Im working on the track, he explains. When I first got the track, I felt something sexy, but also something like hating somebody, so I imagined a situation where I hate somebody, but I still love them. Thats the expression that I wanted to deliver. Succinct but effective.Dumb is next, and expounds on the conflict sensed in its predecessor: Are they dumb for not sensing whats there, because of being numb? The track seems simple and straightforward, but, production wise, its anything but. I wanted to do something complicated, but something very simple, I.M grins at his own contradiction. Because the drum line is a UK drill line. And also, the guitar session is like an RnB line. I wanted to mix the two genres, but I wanted the line to be very simple. So, its kind of like three things mixed, mixed, mixed, he trails off. Hes making it sound easy, but its really not. No, its not, he agrees, laughing.Habit splits the album, with its distorted electric guitar and jazzy undertones, and I.M switching from his higher to lower register. Its a very unique baritone that feels like something youd hear in a smoky speakeasy at two in the morning. I still love the Duality album but, when I look back at my past stuff, I see I could do a lot better than that, he explains. I felt that. So, I wanted to change and put in lots of genres, some instrumentals and lots of sessions vocally too. I dont sing in a normal way; I sing more, like more, pumped? I dont know how to explain it but the vocalisation is not really natural. His explanation of the song hits hard, too. Habit is (about) a thing that you do not realise when youre living it. A habit is part of my life; its very natural to me. I wanted to make a habit of the person that I love. So, when the habit is gone, it is still mine. So, I cannot love myself, because my habit is gone.The mood switches from conflict to a place of understanding towards the last two tracks  at least for the listener. The penultimate track, More, is incredibly sexy and self-assured. Something thats squarely I.Ms metier and done to perfection. I didnt put a specific message in that track, he reveals. When I made this whole album, its like I made music randomly and just stacked it up, picked the best track and mixed it. So I needed a track like Ive always done before; More is kind of like a vibe that Ive done before and I have confidence with it.Not Sorry, which closes the album, has an attitude  its unapologetic in both vibe and lyrics. For Not Sorry, I was working with my crew member Wooki. I wanted to do something new and I asked him to do something that he wanted. Whatever he wanted! And he gave me a track like this. The first version was very difficult and very, very unorganised, but I really liked the vibe because it was kind of like a challenge to me as well. And so that came out, he laughs. Wooki and Yoon-seok  aka his squad, the Coda Crew  have been old collaborators of his, right from the start. The Need and Long Drive are two other artistes who work with him consistently on music and arrangement. Wooki and Yoon-seok are my crew members; weve been together since I dont even know when. Weve spent a long time together, almost like Monsta X. We dont really need to explain very detailed parts (to each other) when were making music, because we understand ourselves and we know ourselves, and that we are good at it, he offers. Long Drive and The Need, theyve also been working with me since I don't know when! A long time! I like people who know me and who I am, and I know them too. Its a blessing to me.The final song ends the album in a place of resolution, much like how it starts, with Overdrive. When I first got the track, I was very confused and there were some kind of dual emotions coming out; the track is complicated. he points out, adding, I think its my style to end the album in a very calm vibe. With Duality too, the first track, God Damn, and the last one was Flower-ed (a soft, deeply emotional conclusion). Our conversation takes a more philosophical turn. Usually, when something starts and ends in a place of understanding of where and who you are, its usually because you go through a journey to get to those places. You have to go through the questions and search for answers that you might or might not get. When asked if this is what inspired the progression of this track list, he pauses pensively, thinks, and responds. I think it did. Yeah. I think youre right. Youve got the point.Youd be right to assume that I.M is a contemplative man, who is considerate towards his own thoughts and feelings, before forming opinions  or eschewing them, for good reason. This character trait lends itself to how he views his solo career as well. I really dont set goals or say that I really want to achieve something. I really dont make guidelines, he discloses. My satisfaction is the first thing to me. Compared with Duality, I feel that I have developed myself so much (more) musically  my skills and my ability. This is very important to me. More than making a good score Of course, meeting a goal might make me happy, and, of course, the fans will be so great and happy, joyful, but the best thing is developing myself. Because the fame will come if I stay true. Interestingly, he manages to keep his perspective clear even with a new record dropping. As far as reactions and reviews go, he has an unusual objective. Basically, when I make music, when its all done, I really dont make them (other people, including his Monsta X members) listen to my song. Because I want the final reaction when it comes out. So, Im expecting a reaction from my members tomorrow, he reveals. Could a person really do that? Keep something so important close till the very end? You know, there are a lot of things going on in my mind. Should I make them listen right now, even though its kind of like a demo version? But I really want them to listen to the final best quality, he offers.By the time this interview is published, Overdrive will be out in the world. With his schedule and his duties, what does the future look like for I.M? My future? Like I said previously, I really dont set myself a goal. I dont have a final goal; what I want is something very deep, he shares. If you listen to a song or you watch a movie or read a book after that, something comes to your mind or you can imagine or smell a scent or (recall) a situation or something; I want to be like that. I want to make a long, long scent. Does he feel like hes getting closer to that state of creative existence? Im trying to. Well, I think so. Because, you know, Im not really loud or very cheerful. Of course, Im cheerful when Im with my members or with something that I need to do. But, when Im just by myself, my mood, my vibe is very calm and chill. I think that has melted into my songs naturally and I want people to feel that. I really dont explain much about my songs  I write just one or two sentences  because, when they listen to the album, I want the listeners to feel the songs in their way.Theres this catchphrase of sorts that has followed I.M around for a while, which, more and more, seems to be the perfect way to describe him. It is I am what I am. As we wind up, the question slips out: how do you get to a place where you are exactly who you are? Because I know who I am, he responds. I love what I do. Yeah. Simply. Of course, in the details, theres lots of things going on, and I need to think about a lot of stuff. But simply, just at the surface. I think these two are it. It might not be easy for most but, for him, its the simple truth.Also Read: Monsta X And The Age Of Reason
New Zealand's apparel imports from Vietnam remained positive in the first quarter of the current year. The country imported apparel worth $17.824 million from January to March 2023, which was slightly higher than the inbound shipment of $17.577 million from October to December 2022, and $16.731 million from January to March 2022. The imports witnessed growth in 2022 compared to the previous year.

New Zealand's imports increased to $19.433 million from April to June 2022 but dropped to $14.148 million from July to September 2022. However, they rose to $17.577 million from October to December 2022 and then to $17.824 million from January to March 2023, according to Fibre2Fashions market insight tool TexPro.

The imports also remained positive last year, growing to $67.891 million from $53.259 million in 2021. The inbound shipment was valued at $44.164 million in 2019 but dropped to $39.026 million in 2020. It then recovered to $53.259 million during 2021.

In Q1 2023, New Zealand's imports of Vietnamese apparel amounted to $17.824 million, slightly higher than previous quarters. Despite fluctuations in 2022, there was overall growth in imports compared to 2021. In January-April 2023, Vietnam was New Zealand's 3rd largest apparel supplier, accounting for 5.43 per cent of the total $436.756 million in imports.

According to TexPro, Vietnam was the third-largest apparel supplier for New Zealand from January to April 2023. New Zealand's total apparel imports amounted to $436.756 million during this period. Out of these total imports, Vietnam's supply was valued at $23.733 million, which represented 5.43 per cent. China and Bangladesh were the first and second-largest suppliers, with shares of 62.12 per cent and 11.37 per cent, respectively.

Fibre2Fashion News Desk (KUL)
China plans to launch a national voluntary greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions reduction trading market this year, its ministry of ecology and environment recently announced. Ministry spokesperson Liu Youbin said the China Certified Emissions Reduction will be the market's trading product.

Market refers to a system in which firms can buy and sell emissions allowancespermits to emit a certain amount of greenhouse gases.

Enterprises that emit less than their allowance can sell their excess allowances to those that emit more than their allowance, creating an incentive for companies to reduce their emissions, as they can make money by selling their allowances.

China plans to unveil a national voluntary greenhouse gas emissions reduction trading market this year. The China Certified Emissions Reduction will be the market's trading product. The market will support the development of forestry carbon sequestration, renewable energy, methane emissions reduction, energy conservation and efficiency improvement projects.

The trading market will help support the development of forestry carbon sequestration, renewable energy, methane emissions reduction, energy conservation and efficiency improvement projects, Liu was quoted as saying by a state-controlled media outlet.

It will encourage a wider range of industries and enterprises to participate in GHG emissions reduction to meet the countrys target of peaking carbon dioxide emissions by 2030 and achieving carbon neutrality by 2060.

Before the trading market is launched, the ministry has drafted a regulation on voluntary GHG emissions reduction and support for management systems with relevant departments, and has established related infrastructure and nationwide registration and trading systems, Liu added.

The market can help raise revenue for the government and promote innovation in low-carbon technologies.

Fibre2Fashion News Desk (DS)
The European Commission recently published two legislative proposals: one on a digital euro, a universal means of payment across the entire euro area, to ensure it is widely accepted as a means of payment, and the other to ensure citizens and businesses can continue to access and pay with euro banknotes and coins across the euro area.

The first proposal foresees that people could use basic digital euro services for free and offers private intermediaries appropriate economic incentives to distribute the digital euro as they do other digital means of payment, while preventing excessive fees for merchants.

It supports a high degree of privacy and data protection for users, while minimising money laundering and terrorist financing risks. It enables offline digital euro payments, to provide cash-like privacy levels.

The European Commission has published two legislative proposals: one on a digital euro, a universal means of payment across the entire euro area, and the other to ensure citizens and businesses can continue to access and pay with euro banknotes and coins. The investigation phase of the digital euro project will conclude in October this year.

We look forward to continuing working together with other EU [European Union] institutions towards a digital euro to ensure our currency is fit for the digital age, said European Central Bank president Christine Lagarde in a release.

The investigation phase of the digital euro project will conclude in October 2023. The ECB governing council will then decide whether to move to the next phase of the project.

In the next phase, ECB would further develop and test the technical solutions and business arrangements. A possible decision by the governing council to issue a digital euro would be taken only after the legislative act is adopted.

The second proposal aims to safeguard the continued and widespread acceptance of cash throughout the euro area and will also ensure that people have sufficient access to cash to be able to pay in cash if they so wish. Member States will need to ensure widespread acceptance of cash payments, as well as sufficient and effective access to cash.

The proposals will ensure that everyone in the euro area is free to choose their preferred payment method and has access to basic cash services. It will ensure the financial inclusion of vulnerable groups who tend to rely more on cash payments, such as older people, ECB said.

The European Commission has been working closely with ECB over the past few years to jointly review at technical level a broad range of policy, legal and technical questions on the digital euro.

Fibre2Fashion News Desk (DS)
Switzerland is working hard on a planned free trade agreement (FTA) between Vietnam and the European Free Trade Association (EFTA), whose members are Switzerland, Norway, Iceland and Liechtenstein, according to president of the National Council of Switzerland Martin Candinas.

Candinas recently visited Vietnam and met the latters minister of industry and trade Nguyen Hong Dien.

Switzerland is working hard on a free trade pact between Vietnam and the European Free Trade Association, comprising Switzerland, Norway, Iceland and Liechtenstein, president of the National Council of Switzerland Martin Candinas recently said in Hanoi. Both countries discussed ways to reinforce links in innovation, green economy and sustainable development.

The signing of that FTA, under negotiation for more than 10 years, will be a prerequisite and a useful tool for enterprises on both sides to grasp opportunities for development cooperation, facilitate trade in goods and boost bilateral investment flows, the leaders were quoted as saying by a news agency.

Both leaders felt that bilateral relations in economy, trade and investment should be further promoted, and discussed ways to reinforce links in innovation, green economy and sustainable development.

The Vietnamese minister requested Candinas to support Vietnams efforts to attract high-quality investment, especially in the industries that Switzerland is strong at and Vietnam has demand for.

He also sought help to develop fundamental industries in Vietnam like material, chemical, mechanical, supporting, processing and manufacturing industries.

Swiss investment in these sectors should be made in tandem with manpower training and technology transfer to help Vietnam reach the US Sustainable Development Goals, he added.

Fibre2Fashion News Desk (DS)
Ananya Panday: Young actress Ananya Panday, with only a few movies in the industry, has become a Gen Z sensation. She enjoys a massive fan following on social media, and her fans also look up to her for fashion inspiration.

Just like any other celeb, Ananya's personal life also remains under the spotlight, and her being rumoured to be dating actor Aditya Roy Kapur has always been a heated topic of attraction.

Though in most cases, these link-up rumours are merely gossip, it has now been reported that Ananya Panday and Aditya Roy Kapur's relationship is also just a tabloid story.

Ananya Panday reacts to dating rumours with Aditya Roy Kapur

Although Ananya and Aditya have remained silent on their dating rumours, their public appearances have convinced fans that they are a couple. But amid all the speculation, Ananya Panday seems to have brushed off the rumours.

Talking to Hindustan Times, when the Liger actress was asked about her dating rumours with Aditya, she admitted that she is happy that people are taking an interest in her private life.

Ananya Pandey Rocks The Barbiecore Trend In Pink Mini Figure-Hugging One-Shoulder Dress. See Her CUTE Pics

"It's good to be curious, people should keep guessing who I'm dating," she said. In fact, earlier, the diva's mother had refuted her daughter's dating reports.

Ananya Panday talks about marriage plans

In a different interview with India Today, the Gehraiyaan actress recently opened up about her marriage plans and revealed that she is too young for it now.

Ananya and Aditya's romantic relationship speculation captured attention after Karan Johar, in his talk show Koffee With Karan, hinted at it. Further, the duo walked the ramp at Lakme Fashion Week for designer Manish Malhotra last year.

They also attended Kriti Sanon's Diwali celebration together in 2022, and a few other instances have fueled the fire about their relationship.

Ananya Panday's Mom Opens Up About Daughter's Dating Rumours With Aditya Roy Kapur. Here's What She Said

Ananya Panday on the work front

Ananya will next be seen opposite Ayushmaan Khurrana in Dream Girl 2. She has Kho Gaye Hum Kahan alongside Siddhant Chaturvedi and Adarsh Gourav and an OTT series titled Call Me Bae in the pipeline.
Carry On Jatta 3 In Trouble: Carry On Jatta 3 starring Gippy Grewal and Sonam Bajwa in the lead, helmed by Smeep Kang, released in theatres on June 29. The film received a massive opening, however, it landed in trouble.

In an unfortunate turn of events, a written complaint was lodged against the director and actors of the film by the Chairman of Punjab Shiv Sena (Taksali) Sunil Kumar Bunty, and the president of the Youth Committee of Shiv Sena Hind, Ishant Sharma, at the Jalandhar police station.

Sunil Kumar Bunty, the Chairman of Punjab Shiv Sena (Taksali), told ANI, "We filed a complaint on behalf of Shiv Sena Hind. In the film Carry On Jatta 3, which is aimed at Hindus, a Brahmin who is seen performing Havan rituals is humiliated in a scene. Gippy Grewal, Binnu Dhillon, and Gurpreet Ghuggi have violated the faith of millions of Hindus by throwing water on the Havan Kund. Because in Hindu religion if any ritual has to be done, then Havan is performed first."

He continued, "So, today, we have filed a complaint against all of them and demanded that section 295 be imposed on them for hurting religious sentiments. And if an attempt is made by them to spoil the atmosphere in Punjab. For that Section 153 should be imposed."

Sunil further said that the filmmakers attempt to increase their TRP by targeting the Hindu religion. If any such thing happened to another caste, they would have destroyed the theatre or set it on fire. "Hinduism is a very soft religion. That's why we went to the government first. If they won't act within 24 hours, then the director Kang and Gurpreet Ghuggi's house is in Jalandhar only. We will be protesting outside their homes," he concluded.

Ishant Sharma, the Youth committee president of Shiv Sena Hind, told ANI, "We saw the full film after people sent us the clip, and we came forward today. Our hearts are hurt that's why we came here to complain. If they believe this is inappropriate content, the scene is automatically deleted."
Bigg Boss OTT 2: After significant popularity, Bigg Boss OTT returned with its second where Salman Khan replaced Karan Johar as the host. It's been over two weeks, and the show has created massive buzz amongst the viewers.

Recently, the show was trending as the viewers were left shocked after two contestants Jad Hadid and Akanksha Puri shared a passionate kiss inside the house during the Weekend ka Vaar episode.

It so happened that Avinash Sachdev, who is one of the contestants on BB OTT 2, dared both Jad Hadid and Akanksha to smooch for 30 seconds. While this shocked other contestants, they kissed, which did not go down well with the viewers.

But followed received way more criticism. The Lebanese model after their kiss, called Akanksha 'a bad kisser'. He was slammed by Pooja Bhatt, who said, "I'm sorry but you're a b**ch if you're saying that. Under the belt. What do you think a poor girl will do if she is asked to kiss in front of the whole world? I am sorry, I disapprove of it. No no no, not cool."

Jad tried to defend himself and said "It's an opinion", to which Bhatt replied, "Tell her that, Don't tell us that." Continuing the argument, Jad said, "It's boy talk". Pooja shut him down saying, 'I thought you were a man, not a boy".

As soon as Pooja's video surfaced, netizens came in support of The Bombay Begums actress. Amongst others, Urfi Javed called her 'strong'.

The social media sensation Urfi Javed took to her Twitter and wrote, "Honestly Pooja Bhatt is so classy and dignified, the way she called out Jad for calling Akansha a bad kisser after seemingly enjoying the kiss. She is amazing !!! Strong, outspoken, well behaved! #BigBossOTT2".

Meanwhile, they were even slammed by host Salman Khan during Weekend Ka Vaar who warned everyone that the show is not meant for such cheap stunts.
Bigg Boss Season 5 Grand Finale Predictions: With only a few hours remaining until the grand finale of Bigg Boss Malayalam Season 5, fans are on the edge of their seats, eagerly awaiting the revelation of the champion.

Predictions have been pouring in from various sources, including former Bigg Boss stars Shiyas Kareem and Basheer Bashi, whose opinions have garnered significant attention.

Bigg Boss Malayalam Season 5 Winner Prediction: Akhil Marar Or Reneesha To Lift The Cup?

According to Basheer Bashi, Akhil Marar is the most deserving contestant to lift the coveted trophy this season. He confidently stated, "There is no one else who deserves it," as reported by Asianet News online. Shiyas Kareem shared a similar sentiment, expressing his support for Akhil Marar and mentioning that Rinosh George was also on his mind. However, with Rinosh out of the competition, Shiyas Kareem believes Akhil Marar should take home the victory.

Akhil Marar has consistently been touted as a frontrunner throughout the entire season, impressing both the audience and fellow contestants with his remarkable performances within the Bigg Boss house.

Meanwhile, the highly anticipated grand finale of Bigg Boss Malayalam is set to commence tonight at 7:00 p.m. The top five contenders, Akhil Marar, Sobha, Junaiz, Reneesha, and Shiju, will battle it out for the ultimate title.

Bigg Boss Malayalam 5: Rajith Kumar's Shocking Prediction, 'Not Akhil Or Sobha, Surprising Winner To Emerge'

Asianet is gearing up to broadcast the highly anticipated grand finale of Bigg Boss Malayalam 5 tonight at 7:00 p.m. Viewers can brace themselves for an evening filled with exhilarating moments as the winner is crowned. This marks the fifth season of the popular reality show, with the second season unfortunately cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic. For those already subscribed, the "Bigg Boss Malayalam: Season 5" finale can also be streamed on Disney+ Hotstar at no additional cost.

Mohanlal Shares Excitement For The Bigg Boss Malayalam Season 5 Grand Finale

In a promotional video for the show, Mohanlal shared his thoughts and sentiments. He expressed deep gratitude to the viewers for their unwavering support throughout the past fourteen weeks as they closely followed the rollercoaster journey of the contestants, ultimately shaping their fate. Mohanlal acknowledged his active involvement in resolving conflicts within the Bigg Boss House and being witness to emotional moments during the weekends. Today, as the final judgement is delivered, he cordially invites everyone to join him in experiencing this unforgettable moment together.
Press Release

July 2, 2023 Tolentino: Future postponement of Barangay, SK polls still possible despite SC ruling MANILA - Senator Francis 'TOL' N. Tolentino said future deferment of Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections (BSKE) remains a possibility despite the recent Supreme Court (SC) ruling which invalidates the law postponing the 2022 BSKE. Tolentino, chairman of the Senate Committee on Justice and Human Rights, made the remarks during an interview with Super Radyo DZBB on Sunday. According to Tolentino, despite the high court's ruling which declared Republic Act No. 11935--the law postponing the BSKE from its initial schedule of December 5, 2022, to the last Monday of October 2023--as 'unconstitutional,' the decision was also clear that any future postponement must be in accordance to the guidelines set by SC such as the presence of a public emergency and it is "intended to safeguard other fundamental rights of the electorate." "Ngayon po maliwanag na, may guidelines po ang Korte Suprema subalit hindi po sinasabi sa (bagong) Supreme Court decision na bawal nang mag-postpone (ng BSKE). Basta sundin mo yung limang guidelines, it will not prevent future Congresses from postponing--kung mami-meet po itong guidelines na ito," said Tolentino. In its ruling last week, the high tribunal found it imperative to set forth guidelines and principles pertaining to any government action that seeks to postpone and reschedule the conduct of any future barangay and SK polls. "Yun naman po ang maliwanag dito. Hindi po sinabi ng Supreme Court na bawal kayo (Congress) mag-postpone," Tolentino added. Tolentino also stressed that SC did also recognize Congress' authority to legislate laws on future 'hold overs' of incumbent barangay and SK officials, contrary to the argument of the petitioners that it can be branded as 'legislative appointments.' Meanwhile, Tolentino said that it is up to the leadership of both houses of Congress, especially the members of the majority bloc on whether to appeal the recent SC decision. The senator also explained that despite the high court's ruling, the tribunal still recognized the legal practicality and necessity of proceeding with the conduct of the BSKE under RA 11935 on the last Monday of October 2023, pursuant to the so-called "Operative Fact Doctrine." "Ito po ay sang-ayon din sa 1971 decision ng Supreme Court eh--Agbayani vs. PNB--na kinikilala na kung mayroon ng effect yung nagawang batas bago pa ito i-declare na unconstitutional, hindi naman po ito totally void o ipapawalang-bisa. Yung hinanda na ng Comelec--yung pagprint ng balota, yung date na ini-schedule na--matutuloy po 'yon," Tolentino stressed.
News / Local

by Staff reporter

A lawyer for a Harare property developer has appeared in court on allegations of representing the developer without a valid practising certificate.Tafadzwa Ngoro is alleged to have appeared on behalf of Capevalley Properties at Norton Police Station in November last year despite him not being registered with the Law Society of Zimbabwe (LSZ).LSZ is the sole regulatory board for legal practitioners in the country.Through his lawyer Tafadzwa Hungwe, Ngoro denied the charges when he appeared before Norton magistrate Rutendo Trish Machingura charged with practising without a valid certificate.Ngoro told the court that he never appeared on behalf of Capevalley Properties on November 21, 2022 as alleged by the state.He said the charges were manufactured as a result of a long-standing dispute between his employer, Capevalley, and the complainants.Prosecutor Nyasha Nyaumwe alleged that on November 21, 2022, Ngoro availed himself at Norton Urban police station at about 2pm in the company of Grace Chanakira and Primrose Chakuchichi.He represented them as their legal practitioner and endorsed his signature on warned and cautioned statements, which were recorded for the two women.Ngoro allegedly failed to produce his practising certificate upon request by the member-in-charge crime Assistant Inspector Gavi.As such, the accused acted unlawfully by representing clients while he was not registered as required by the Legal Practitioner's Act.However, Hungwe said his client did not hold himself out or pretended as a legal practitioner on the numerous occasions that he was invited to or availed himself at Norton Police Station regarding the said disputes."He will deny ever preparing or appending his signature to any legal document or instrument that required a legal practitioner as contemplated by the Legal Practitioners Act on the day in question and will state that these allegations are poorly fabricated in order to further the live disputes that are brewing between his employer and the informants in numerous courts," argued Hungwe.He will pray that he be found not guilty and acquitted.Machingura remanded the case to Tuesday.
Bigg Boss OTT 2 Update: In just two weeks, the second season of Bigg Boss OTT has turned out to be the most explosive season in the show's history including both TV and OTT versions. Hosted by Salman Khan, Bigg Boss OTT 2 premiered on Jio Cinema on June 17 amid huge buzz and the show has been making headlines since then.

Several known names, including Pooja Bhatt, Cyrus Broacha, Falaq Naaz, Avinash Sachdev, Jiya Shankar, and Abhishek Malhan aka Fukra Insaan among others, are currently locked inside the Bigg Boss OTT 2 house. Lebanese model Jad Hadid is also one of the contestants.

JAD HADID FLASHED HIS BUM TO BEBIKA DHURVE DURING A FIGHT

In the past few days, Jad made headlines mostly for the wrong reasons. At first, he locked lips with co-contestant Akanksha Puri during a task leaving housemates as well as the viewers surprised. In last night's (July 1) episode of Weekend Ka Vaar with Salman Khan, he took things a notch higher by showing his b*tt in front of co-contestants. Yes, you read that right!

As shown in the episode, Bebika and Jad got indulged in a fight in the kitchen area during which the model hailing from Lebanon flashed his bum to her. Later, an angry Salman Khan bashed Jad for his actions like never before.

Bigg Boss OTT 2: Jad Hadid Shows His B*tt During Nasty Fight With Bebika, Netizens Call Him 'Disgrace'

BIGG BOSS 7 CONTESTANT ANDY DEMANDS JAD HADID'S EVICTION

Taking to social media, an ex-Bigg Boss contestant too has now slammed Jad Hadid. Well, we're talking about Bigg Boss 7 contestant Andy who regularly shares his opinion about Bigg Boss contestants.

Bigg Boss OTT 2: Jad Hadid's WHOPPING Net Worth Revealed, Model In News For KISS With Akanksha Puri

In his latest tweets after the episode, he demanded the eviction of Jad and even connected it to the exit of Puneet Superstar. Yes, you read that right!

Sharing his opinion about the whole incident, Andy tweeted, "Please, #BiggBossOTT2, you have to remove #JadHadid showing his a*s to someone is indecent exposure; he should be evicted. For once, #BebikaDhurve isn't wrong here. #AbhishekMalhan is such a good man; he's the only one to say it's wrong."

When a Twitter user pointed out that Jad was among the contestants who voted out Puneet Superstar for 'indecency' in the first week, Andy replied, "#Puneethsuperstar ko nikala tha, yeh sab tho nahin kia tha! Ab #Jad ko nikalo! #EVICTJADNOW! he has abused a woman in the worst way. #BiggBossOtt2 #BiggBossOTT"

Take a look at his tweets below:

Well, Bigg Boss OTT 2 is turning out to be an intriguing season and it'll be interesting to see who among the remaining contestants will walk away with the winner's trophy after four weeks during the grand finale.

Keep watching this space for more updates!
Ankit Gupta News: After winning hearts with his stint in Salman Khan's Bigg Boss 16, TV star Ankit Gupta returned to the small screen with Sargun Mehta and Ravi Dubey's production venture Junooniyatt. Co-starring Gautam Singh Vig and Neha Rana, the musical drama premiered on Colors TV in February this year and has been winning hearts.

With its enchanting mix of music and romance, Junooniyatt has captivated its audience with its engaging storyline. The recent plot twist has added an extra layer of drama, showcasing the talents of gifted actors Ankit Gupta, Gautam Singh Vig, and Neha Rana in the lead roles.

In the recent episodes of Junooniyatt, an unexpected turn of events saw Elahi marrying Jordan instead of Jahaan, leading to disappointment among dedicated viewers. To further deepen the already tumultuous love triangle involving Jahaan, Elahi, and Jordan, the makers recently introduced a new character in the show, adding an intriguing layer to the storyline.

JUNOONIYATT CROSSES 100-EPISODE MILESTONE

After Palak Jain's entry as Elahi's estranged sister and the new girl in Jahan's life, the show witnessed another turning point leaving fans intrigued. Amid all this, Junooniyatt has now achieved a big achievement.

Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai Star Harshad Chopda's Real-Life Sister Harsha Is Also An Actress, Check DEETS Here

For those who are unaware, the show has crossed the 100 crore episodes mark. Yes, you read that right! At a time when many shows ends abruptly within a few months, Junooniyatt crossing the 100 episode mark is indeed a milestone.

Pandya Store Popular Lead Star Confirms EXIT Due To Generation Leap: It Did Come As A Shock...

CHANGE IN THE TIME SLOT OF JUNOONIYATT

As mentioned above, Ankit Gupta's Junooniyatt made its debut on TV in February this year, generating significant buzz and anticipation. While high expectations were set for its performance in terms of TRP ratings, the musical drama struggled to meet those expectations since the beginning.

In response to the situation, the channel recently changed its time slot from 8:30 pm to 9 pm. As a result, the show has now taken over the previous time slot of Karan Kundrra's Tere Ishq Mein Ghayal. While the show has witnessed a slight improvement in the ratings at the new slot, it will be intriguing to see whether this new timing proves beneficial for Junooniyatt or not in the long run.

Make sure to tune in to Colors TV every Monday to Friday at 9 pm to experience a captivating tale brimming with music, love, emotions, and passion.

Keep watching this space for more updates!
Die KI-Revolution ist in vollem Gange und vor allem ein Bereich wird stark betroffen sein: Cyber-Security. Die Experten sind sich sicher: Mit steigender Entwicklung von KI-Technologien nehmen auch KI-gestutzte Cyber-Attacken zu. Wir zeigen hier, welche Aktien profitieren konnen.

BASEL (dpa-AFX) - Sandoz said that the citrate-free high-concentration formulation or HCF of its biosimilar Hyrimoz (adalimumab-adaz) injection will be available in the United States starting July 1. Hyrimoz HCF (100 mg/mL) is approved to treat all indications no longer covered by the regulatory exclusivity for the reference medicine, Humira (adalimumab), as of July 1, 2023, including rheumatoid arthritis, juvenile idiopathic arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, plaque psoriasis and hidradenitis suppurativa. According to the company, Hyrimoz HCF offers a 50% reduction in injection volume compared to the 50 mg/mL concentration and can decrease the number of injections required for people who need at least 80 mg/0.8 mL dosing. The HCF formulation is citrate free and uses the same auto-injector as Hyrimoz 50 mg/mL, the Sensoready pen, which is designed with patients in mind. The prefilled Sensoready pen is an ergonomic device with a triangular shape, buttonless injection for self-administration and a 360 viewing window for visual feedback. 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.
Die KI-Revolution ist in vollem Gange und vor allem ein Bereich wird stark betroffen sein: Cyber-Security. Die Experten sind sich sicher: Mit steigender Entwicklung von KI-Technologien nehmen auch KI-gestutzte Cyber-Attacken zu. Wir zeigen hier, welche Aktien profitieren konnen.

CA Immo: Austrian based real estate company CA Immo has signed a 12-year lease agreement with State Street Bank International GmbH for around 5,000 m of rental space in the ONE office and hotel tower in Frankfurt. State Street is one of the world's leading providers of financial services to institutional investors. With the conclusion of this lease agreement the approx. 190 metre high ONE is approx. 87 % let. The highrise was opened in September 2022. By August 2024, State Street is expected to concentrate its employees, who were previously spread across two locations in City West and Niederrad, in the high-rise building centrally located at the interface between Frankfurt's banking district and the Europaviertel.CA Immo: weekly performance: 4.73% S IMMO AG (Bloomberg: ...

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.
Ajit Pawar has done it again. The Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) leader and nephew of Sharad Pawar made big headlines on Sunday when he took oath as deputy chief minister of Maharashtra and joined the Eknath Shinde-led government.

Along with Ajit Pawar, eight leaders from the NCP also took oath as ministers, engineering a vertical split in the party. Those who were sworn in as ministers are Chhagan Bhujbal, Dilip Walse Patil, Hasan Mushrif, Dhananjay Munde, Aditi Tatkare, Dharmarao Atram, Anil Patil and Sanjay Bansode.

Following his surprise swearing-in, Ajit Pawar wrote on Twitter, With the will of the people of Maharashtra, the support of his colleagues in the Nationalist Congress Party, and the strength of faith, he took the oath of office and secrecy as the Deputy Chief Minister of the state today. I believe that my post will be used for the welfare of the people, for the development of Maharashtra.

Maharashtra Assembly Speaker Rahul Narwekar, who was present in the Raj Bhawan, said Ajit Pawar has resigned as the Leader of Opposition (LoP) in the Lower House and he has accepted it.

This isnt the first time he has done something like this. After the 2019 Maharashtra Assembly polls, he had joined hands with the BJP and was sworn in as deputy CM in a hush ceremony, but their government lasted only 80 hours.

The rise of Ajit Pawar

According to Indian Express, Ajit, the son of Pawars elder brother Anantrao, began being seen beside his uncle around 1991 and 1992.

He first gained fame after Pawar formed the NCP and even became a Cabinet minister in the Congress-NCP government. Ajit then headed up a slew of ministries including irrigation, rural development, water resources and finance.

Ajit gained the reputation for getting things done and brought in fresh blood into the NCP  all of whom were loyal to him.

Turmoil within NCP

The first hint of turmoil came in 2004 when Ajit publicly spoke against the NCP, which had emerged as the single-largest party in Maharashtra, giving the chief ministership to the Congress.

According to News18, Ajit missed his chance to become chief minister after Pawar demanded more Cabinet berths instead of the CMs post.

Ajit was then made deputy chief minister.

The political plunge by Pawars daughter Supriya Sule in 2009 brought murmurs of tensions within the NCP. Talk of tensions flared up again in 2019 when Pawars grandnephew Rohit decided to dip his toes in the political waters.

According to Times Now, this came at the same time that Ajit wanted his son Parth to contest Lok Sabha polls from Maval.

While Pawar was initially not in favour of this, the party ended up giving Parth a ticket  only for him to lose by a massive two lakh votes.

That caused further stress between Pawar and Ajit  the uncle was disappointed at the party loss, while the nephew was upset at his son not being fully backed by the party.

In September 2019, Ajit resigned as a party legislator from Baramati.

Then, in November 2019, came a truly stunning event  Ajits swearing in as deputy chief minister in the Devendra Fadnavis Cabinet.

That government collapsed quickly and Ajit quickly returned to the NCP fold  events neither man has publicly addressed.

Bigger ambitions

In April, Ajit in an interview expressed his desire to become Maharashtra chief minister, as per Hindustan Times.

That led to party leaders Sunil Tatkare and Dilip Walse Patil echoing Ajit and workers putting up hoardings proclaiming that Ajit would be a future chief minister.

A senior NCP leader told the newspaper Ajit was sending a message  that he was the party leader at the state level.

Sule, meanwhile, told ANI, There is nothing wrong to have ambition or a dream in politics, everybody has it, so I dont think there is anything wrong with saying openly about it. In fact, he is very honest in talking about his ambition.

This even as rumours swirled that Ajit was preparing to decamp to the BJP with 40 MLAs and that he was in constant touch with Fadnavis and Amit Shah, as per Deccan Herald.

Ajit at first said nothing and then emphatically denied it. Pawar, meanwhile, held a meeting with Uddhav Thackeray.

Deccan Herald quoted insiders as saying Pawar is predisposed towards appointing his daughter as his heir, but is wary of Ajits influence within the party.

In fact, the development comes after Ajit Pawar had earlier this month said he wanted to step down as the Leader of Opposition in Maharashtra Legislative Assembly as he was never interested in the role.

Speaking at the 24th Foundation Day of the NCP, Ajit had then said: I am told that I dont act tough as the leader of the Opposition I was never interested to work as Leader of Opposition but accepted the role on demand of the party MLAs.

Assign me any post in the party organisation, and I will do complete justice to whatever responsibility I am entrusted with, he added.

His remarks had come after NCP supremo Sharad Pawar appointed Supriya Sule and Praful Patel as the working presidents of the party.

Moreover, Ajit has had to deal with another complication  that of Sule and NCP Maharashtra president Jayant Patil emerging as rival power centres within the NCP.

It is unknown how the NCP or Ajit Pawars uncle will react to the developments on Sunday, but its politics and, as they say, everything and anything is possible.

With inputs from agencies

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The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) has stated its intention to run candidates in all 60 assembly constituencies and two Lok Sabha seats in Arunachal Pradesh in the next general elections.

Toko Nikam, state unit general secretary of the AAP, told reporters that if the party wins power in the northeastern state in 2024, it will provide free water, electricity, medical services up to Rs 10 lakh, and world-class education.

If elected, Nikam promises to remove the contentious Arunachal Pradesh Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (APUAPA) of 2014 and the Arunachal Pradesh Freedom of Religion Act of 1978.

Protests occurred in the northeastern state when the state authorities arrested 40 individuals under the APUAPA in connection with this years 72-hour bandh in the state capital.

Many groups urged the state administration to abolish the Act, which was adopted in 2014 by the states Nabam Tuki-led Congress government.

According to the Arunachal Pradesh Freedom of Religion Act of 1978, no one shall convert or seek to convert any person from one religious faith to another by the use of force, seduction, or other fraudulent methods, nor shall any person aid or abet any such conversion.

Nikam said the party will resolve the Arunachal Pradesh Public Service Commission (APPSC) fiasco within six months and abolish the Arunachal Pradesh State Service Selection Board to eradicate corrupt practices.

AAP will also erect a Statue of Honesty in honour of the Gyamar Padang, the whistleblower in the APPSC paper leakage case, he said.

The paper leak came to light when Gyamar Padung, a candidate of the written examination for recruitment to the post of Assistant Engineer (Civil) conducted by the APPSC, filed a case with Itanagar police station stating that the papers for the examination were leaked.

More than 400 candidates appeared in the examination that was held on August 26 and 27 last year.

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has taken over the APPSC paper leak case on October 26 last year.

Nikam said the partys priorities include constructing a world-class city road in the Capital Region, implementing a blanket ban on out-of-turn promotions in various departments and ensuring all-weather road connectivity to district headquarters.

The AAP also aims to establish a fully functioning Lokayukta in the state, provide world-class medical facilities at Tomo Riba Institute of Health and Medical Sciences (TRIHMS), regularise casual labourers and ALCs (Auxiliary Labour Corps) serving in various departments for the last 12 to 20 years and above, enhance wages for gaon burahs and construct village council courts in accordance with the Assam Frontier (Administration of Justice) Regulation, 1945.

The party also plans to create the 3rd and 4th Arunachal Pradesh Armed Police Battalions to generate employment opportunities for the youth.

When asked about the financial burden associated with the promises, Nikam said the party will create policies to judiciously use the funds provided by the central government and the share of the state tax.

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Residents of Vengaivayal, a village in Tamil Nadu, found themselves at the center of a controversy when their water tank was contaminated with excrement.

In response, the CB-CID (Crime Branch-Criminal Investigation Department) initiated an investigation and requested DNA tests from the community members.

However, the eight residents belonging to the SC (Scheduled Caste) community, who considered themselves as victims rather than culprits, expressed their reluctance to comply with the request during a hearing at a special court.

The Special Court for Exclusive Trial of Cases Registered under the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989, presided over by Judge Jeyanthi S, listened to all parties involved and decided to deliberate on the CB-CIDs DNA testing request.

The court set July 4 as the date to make a final decision regarding the matter.

The sequence of events leading up to this hearing began when the Madurai Bench of the Madras High Court instructed the special court to summon the eight residents who had previously refused to undergo DNA testing in April.

On Friday, the eight residents were summoned to present their opinions on the matter before the court, which took place on Saturday.

During the hearing, the eight residents firmly asserted that they were victims, not the accused, in the water contamination case.

They argued that the request for DNA testing treated them as suspects when they were innocent.

Consequently, they declined the CB-CIDs request and submitted a written statement expressing their refusal to the court.

Meanwhile, CB-CID DSP Palpandi informed the court that the eight residents were among 169 individuals identified to undergo DNA testing.

They clarified that the intention was not to single out these residents but to establish conclusive evidence in the case, as no other evidence was available.

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NCP leader Ajit Pawar takes the oath of office as Deputy Chief Minister in the presence of Maharashtras Chief Minister Eknath Shinde and Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis. Pawar has joined the Maharashtra cabinet led by Eknath Shinde.

#MaharashtraPolitics | NCP leader Ajit Pawar takes oath as Maharashtra Minister in the presence of CM Eknath Shinde and Deputy CM Devendra Fadnavis pic.twitter.com/F58i9WvtJ0  ANI (@ANI) July 2, 2023

Pawar met with several of his party's colleagues today at his official house in Mumbai.

According to reports, Pawar will be sharing the position of Maharashtra's deputy chief minister, along with Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Devendra Fadnavis.

Earlier, NCP's Ajit Pawar announced that he wants to step down as Leader of the Opposition in Maharashtra and would like any party post.

Ajit Pawar on Wednesday while speaking at the party event in Mumbai had said, "I was never interested in working as Leader of Opposition but accepted the role on demand of the party MLAs. Assign me any post in the party organisation and I will do complete justice to whatever responsibility given to me."

NCP president Sharad Pawar, on the other hand, stated that he was 'unaware' of his nephew's meeting, but acknowledged that Ajit, as the leader of the opposition (LoP) in the Maharashtra Assembly, had the authority to convene a conference of members.

Senior NCP leader Chhagan Bhujbal and party working president Supriya Sule were among those present at the meeting, which was held at Ajit Pawar's official mansion 'Devgiri,' although state party president Jayant Patil was absent. The meeting also included some MLAs.

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Uttar Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak announced Sunday that the state government will ensure the safety of Bhim Army chief Chandra Shekhar Aazad, who was recently attempted to kill by unknown assailants.

Pathak, while attending a program in Bahraich, expressed his solidarity with Chandra Shekhar, stating that the incident is being investigated and the perpetrators will be apprehended.

He further assured that adequate security will be provided to him. The government remains steadfast in its commitment to identify and punish all criminals in the state, regardless of the circumstances, Pathak informed the reporters.

In a joint operation conducted by the Haryana and Uttar Pradesh police, four individuals were arrested in Haryanas Ambala district on Saturday for their alleged involvement in the attack on Aazad.

Aman Kumar, Deputy Superintendent of Police in the Haryana Special Task Force, confirmed the arrests.

The assault on Aazad took place in Deoband on Wednesday evening when he was targeted by assailants while being in a car.

He sustained a minor injury as one of the bullets grazed his waist. Aazad was discharged from the district hospital in Saharanpur on Thursday.

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In our Bhartiya tradition, we have always had great reverence and place for Gurus in our lives. Guru is one who enables us to reach our highest potential, who removes the darkness of illusion, who shows the right path ahead and who constantly inspires us to move forward on our evolutionary journey. But it is the responsibility of the disciple to walk on the path, Guru will never walk for us. The whole work of the Guru is that we become; independent, capable of walking without using any crutches, liberated, not dependent and take charge of our own lives. The only interest of the Guru would be of the disciples growth and well-being. It will never be a transactional relationship; it will rather be a transformational one.

Also, the entire work of the external Guru is to help us connect with our own inner Guru, and once that connection is made, the unstoppable evolution starts. With the help and blessings of the Guru, our lives which are moving in repetitive circular motion governed by our patterned living and habits start to move in an upward spiral motion. This is the path everyone is seeking, knowingly or unknowingly.

As we have Guru Purnima tomorrow, which is one of the most auspicious full moon days of the year, and has deep significance for spiritual aspirants from all Sanatan traditions, lets deeply understand the profound relevance of this day.

Shiva  the lord of the universe is known as Adi-Guru, the primordial master. On this sacred day, Adi-Guru started transmission of Yog-Sadhana to the Saptrishis (first seven Sages who became eternal disciples of Shiva). From Shiva the spiritual knowledge through these seven sages started spreading throughout the world, benefitting not just humankind but every form of life. This was the beginning of a spiritual revolution on earth, where Mukti (liberation) became accessible to every devotee.

In the Vedic tradition, it is believed that Guru Purnima is the day when Rishi Ved Vyas was born as the son of Rishi Prashar and Mata Satyavati, he is the great-grandson of Rishi Vashist. Rishi Ved Vyas wrote Mahabharat and Puranas. He classified the Vedic knowledge into four main Vedas; Rig Ved, Yajur Ved, Sam Ved and Atharv Ved. And on this sacred day, he also started compiling the great Brahma Sutras. For this, Guru Purnima is also called as Vyas Purnima. It feels that Adi-Guru must have inspired Rishi Ved Vyas to undertake all these significant works to make spiritual knowledge accessible to all. The proof of this is that our ancient scriptures are still being translated into many world languages and are being taught to millions of students worldwide.

In the Buddhist tradition, it is believed that on this full moon day, Buddha gave his first sermon on Dharma to his first five disciples at Sarnath. And the Dharma Chakra (wheel of Dhamma) was set in motion. Interestingly, these first disciples were Buddhas earlier associates who were with him during his days of penance, but they left him as he dropped all penance and just sat in meditation. Buddha remembered them after his great enlightenment and he felt a certain responsibility towards them, he also felt a certain hope that they will be able to understand his sermon on Dharma. So, this way Guru Purnima also became the starting point from where the Sangha movement of Buddhism was born.

In the Jain tradition, Guru Purnima is known as Treenok Guha Purnima, and it is believed that the great Mahavir made his first disciple on this day. Jain followers worship their gurus and teachers on this day.

Guru Purnima which falls in the month of Ashadh as per the Hindu calendar, marks the beginning of monsoon season. This period is termed as Chaturmas  four months in many spiritual traditions. Many the wandering monks and sadhus, take shelter during these four months and intensify their spiritual sadhana (practices). This period is considered very powerful to enter into deeper spiritual sadhana.

For musicians also, Guru Purnima is a great occasion, as in India, the Guru Shishya Parampara (Teacher-Disciple tradition) is still deep-rooted in the musical fraternity.

And in our schools and other educational institutions also, this day is marked as a day to pay special respect to our teachers.

It is amazing to look at the antiquity of this great tradition of Guru Purnima. From Shiva and Saptrishis to the current schools, it is still followed and celebrated as a day to pay respect and honour our teachers.

Let us use this occasion to pay our gratitude to all the teachers, mentors and Gurus who continue to guide us and selflessly work to put us on the path of our deeper inner evolution.

The author is an ex-corporate CEO and a successful entrepreneur. Views are personal.

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News / Local

by Staff reporter

RUSSIAN mercenary group Wagner Group has been implicated in illicit gold mining dealings in Zimbabwe, according to a latest report by data analysts and an African research organisation.The Wagner Group arose out of a demand for pro-Russian irregular military operations in Ukraine's eastern Donbas region after Moscow-aligned separatists first staged a rebellion in 2014.Nine years later, the paramilitary outfit remains active and has continued to operate openly in countries such as the Central African Republic and Mali.Russian President Vladimir Putin disbanded the private military organisation after they staged a mutiny last week.According to data analysts, Armed Conflict Location and Event Data Project (ACLED), the Russian mercenaries have been involved in a number of mining projects, including the extraction of diamonds from the Marange fields.According to the ACLED report, Zimbabwe was ranked number five where Wagner activities have been reported globally."Russia's Wagner group activities have been reported in the following areas namely; Mali, Central African Republic, DRC, Angola, Zimbabwe, Madagascar, Mozambique, Sudan and Libya," ACLED indicated.Researchers, the Africa Centre for Strategic Studies in a report titled: Tracking Russian Interference to Derail Democracy in Africa adds by shedding light on how Moscow was assisting Zanu-PF entrench its hold on power."Russia's disruption of democratic processes occurs through both official channels (such as blocking UN resolutions condemning African regimes' human rights abuses or fraudulent electoral claims) and irregular means (such as disinformation campaigns targeting democratic proponents, election interference, the deployment of Wagner paramilitary forces, or illicit arms for resources deals)," reads the report."Russia is, thus, helping prevent political rights, civil liberties, and checks and balances on the executive branch from gaining traction in some of the continent's most enduring authoritarian systems."As a result, despite massive popular protests for democracy in places like Algeria, Guinea, Sudan, Uganda, and Zimbabwe, exclusionary regimes persist."The report also indicated that Russia has been using arms deals to secure access to natural resources in Africa."These deals have often been made with corrupt regimes, and they have helped to prop up these regimes in power including Zimbabwe."Russia evades arms embargo on Zimbabwe, in place of Zanu-PF's undermining democracy and violating human rights. Russian disinformation supports the ruling Zanu-PF party."In a latest statement dated June 27, 2023, the US Treasury Department's report has raised concerns about the Wagner Group's activities in Zimbabwe and other African countries.The statement said the US was issuing the advisory in light of increasingly concerning reporting related to the role of illicit actors in the gold trade, including the Wagner Group and to highlight the opportunities and specific risks raised by the gold trade across sub-Saharan Africa, among other issues.
No other global leader would have mustered the courage to call President Xi Jinping of China a dictator, as President Joe Biden did during his recent 2024 election fund-raising visit in California. It wasnt a senior moment, a slip of the tongue in an unguarded moment, because later on Biden defended his remark without any regrets, when he said, just not something Im going to change very much. In spite of fierce outrage from Beijing, Biden said that he would nonetheless meet with Xi sometime soon.

Ironically, this happened just after Secretary of State Antony Blinken returned from China, where he had gone to mend fences after the shooting of the Chinese spy balloon had created a diplomatic furor. After the conciliatory meeting with President Xi, Secretary Blinken said that he had no illusion about how profound and vehement the disagreements were between the two nationsabout Taiwans de facto separate and self-governing status as a democratic country; Chinas hegemonic efforts to dominate the South China Sea; Chinas support for Russias aggression against Ukraine; Chinas technology and intellectual property thefts; and Chinas role in the smuggling of synthetic drugs that has led to the fentanyl crises.



Its worth noting that Secretary Blinkens visit took place on the backdrop of the recent revelations that China was building a spy base in Cuba, as The Wall Street Journal reported. Putting up a cheerful diplomatic face, Secretary Blinken said that the relations with China could be managed, nonetheless.

The United States has always managed to work with dictators without, however, giving up on its ideals of maintaining the liberal democratic global order based on the rule of law. Which dictators like Vladimir Putin and Xi Jinping are challenging now on the mistaken belief that the United States and the West are in a state of irretrievable decline. Since dictators, paramount leaders, and presidents for life dont care for freedom and truth, they overestimate their powers and cause chaos and destruction. They believe that disorder would create a new order shaped by them.

Writing in Foreign Affairs, China Is Ready for a World of Disorder, Mark Leonard, Director of the European Council on Foreign Relations, recounts an interesting and revealing conversation between Xi Jinping and Vladimir Putin in their March meeting in Kremlin. Xi told Putin, Right now, there are changesthe likes of which we havent seen for 100 yearsand we are the ones driving these changes together. Putin, smiling, responded, I agree. Leonard writes that the exchange neatly encapsulates the contemporary Chinese way of thinking about the emerging global orderor, rather, disorder. Is China really looking for competitive coexistence with America?



Only a bold US president, confident of Americas power, could speak the truth to dictators. Instead of forgetting about the spy balloon, President Biden dwelled upon it, Thats whats a great embarrassment for dictators when they didnt know what happened. That wasnt supposed to be going where it was. It was blown off course up through Alaska and then down through the United States. And he didnt know about it. When it got shot down, he was very embarrassed. He denied it was even there.



If President Xi did not know about the spy balloon, what else this most powerful man on the planethead of the state without any term limits or accountability, commander-in-chief of the PLA (the worlds largest military force) unchallenged boss of the ruling Communist Party does not know that could be dangerous to the world. Instead of spy balloons, there could be Chinese warplanes over Taiwan, but President Xi couldnt pretend innocence.

Lately, in fact, Chinese warplanes and naval ships have carried out maneuvers around Taiwan and the South China Sea that were extremely threatening to the USs legitimate security presence and responsibilities in the region. In an interview with 60 Minutes, last year President Biden said that the United States would defend Taiwan if there was an unprecedented attack. This is the bipartisan consensus and the determination, which would test Americas willpower in case China attacked.

Last year President Biden called Vladimir Putin a murderous dictator and pure thug and condemned the invasion of Ukraine as an immoral War. The Ukrainian war has rejuvenated NATO and Europe as well as America. But Russia, in spite of its vast natural resources and nuclear weapons, is much less integrated with the global economy than China.

Concerned about the aggressive rise of China and its global ambitions, European countries have begun to reassess their relations with China and re-think about the importance of the Indo-Pacific, a region as vital to their geopolitical and economic interests as it is to the United States and the rest of world.



Last year the US and Europe bilateral trade with China exceeded $1.6 trillion involving complex global supply chains connecting several nations in the Indo-Pacific. Therefore, for China the war against Taiwan would be different, much more catastrophic than it has been for Russia against Ukraine. And defending Taiwan wouldnt be easy for the United States and its allies. But there would be no choice.

Even decoupling from the Chinese economy seems difficult. As European Commission president, Ursula von der Leyen said, I believe it is neither viable  nor in Europes interest  to decouple from China. Our relations are not black or white  and our response cannot be either. This is why we need to focus on de-risk  not decouple.

The American and European Unions strategies to de-risk their economies from Chinese economic power include ensuring the supply of critical raw materials, maintenance of crucial supply chains, monitoring the flow of investments that might pose security risks, and controlling technologies with military and intelligence applications.

Today America, Europe, and the Indo-Pacific countries face the challenge of how to continue economic ties with the worlds second biggest economy without letting China control the choke points and levers of global trade for which American power and the defence of Taiwan are indispensable. A judicious blend of European-style conciliatory and American-style confrontational diplomacy with China might work.

The author is affiliated with the diplomacy and international program at the Norwich University Graduate College, US. Author of India In A New Key: Nehru To Modi, he publishes Freedom Public Square newsletter and podcast. Views are personal.

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Recently, Mr. Barack Obama, the former president of the USA, expressed his concerns for the protection of the Muslim minority in a majority Hindu India, and insisted on protect[ing] the rights of ethnic minorities in India, amidst internal conflicts. He also warned that unless India protects its minority, it will fall apart and that would be contrary to the interests not just of Muslim India, but also Hindu India. Even though he did not specifically mention Indian Christians, as the contemporary consensus goes, they are also among the minority groups in India that are being persecuted and need to be safeguarded from the Hindu majority. As an Indian Christian, I, therefore, feel compelled to reply to these issues. While his words may sound sincere and accurate, it is important to recognise that such views not only grossly misrepresent the ground reality, but more importantly, they provide little practical assistance to Indian minorities in their daily struggles. And, in fact, they can even damage the very social fabric of Indian society that they ostensibly seek to protect.

Crimes do not discriminate

The popular view that Christians in India are persecuted is misplaced. While many intellectuals and media outlets, both in India and the West, probably genuinely believe in this view, it is crucial to examine the evidence more closely. A simple search on any news portal will yield numerous examples of prominent Christian figures calling for an end to Christian persecution in India, accompanied by various anecdotes and statistics. As a Christian living in India, I can add a few more such anecdotes that support this perspective. Let us grant that these violent incidents and a bit more do take place in India. However, a little bit more reflection will show you that the situation is more complex.

The National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) does not categorise crime data based on religious affiliation. And no organisation or researcher has conducted a survey or collected data that can substantiate this assertion. That means there is no statistical evidence to support the claim of the endless persecution of Christians in India. All those reports that keep appearing in the news claiming the persecution of minorities in India are partial in nature and list only those crimes that are committed against a specific community. However, by examining NCRB data, news portals, and newspapers that regularly report crimes in India, valuable insights can be gained. Paying careful attention to these reports reveals that every community in India faces crime. Interestingly, this data, including the NCRB data itself, contradicts the assertions of persecution of Christians in India.

Let us begin with this question. Which community is facing the highest levels of crime in India? Contrary to what the media makes us think, it is the so-called upper castes who are the primary victims of the majority of violent incidents in India. However, if you trust a 2021 PEW Research report, over 74% of Indian Christians identify themselves as lower castes. That is to say, the majority of Indian Christians do not belong to the social groups that face the highest crimes in India. No wonder then, as the PEW research reports further, A smaller share of Christians (18%) say there is a lot of discrimination against Christians in India, and even fewer say they have personally faced recent discrimination based on their caste (11%) or religion (10%).

During my research travels across Karnataka over the past year, I had the opportunity to observe firsthand that the daily struggle people face is not defined by caste or religious boundaries. People usually fight over issues like public water or petty loans. When I asked them about the causes of fights in their villages, a common answer I received was that People get drunk and start fighting, sir or They fight for tap water or money, sir. As I saw there, if my community is experiencing problems, so are people who belong to other castes and religions. The crucial question that should be raised is: Who is responsible for propagating the claim that Christians (and other minorities) face a high rate of crime in India, and why do they blindly believe in it?

Lost irony and absurd claims

The assertion that the Hindu majority persecutes minority groups in India is not only baseless but also harbours some incriminating implications. It is often emphasised by the media and scholars that India comprises a multitude of diverse communities. However, when it has to claim that the minority is being persecuted in India, it conveniently clubs all diverse groups into one majority Hindu. And here lies the rub. As per the 2011 census data, the oppressed castes (SC, ST, and OBC) alone account for over 70% of the countrys population. If we consider the minority communities, such as Muslims, Christians, Buddhists, and others, the combined population count exceeds 85%. Therefore, when it is asserted that minority groups are persecuted by majority Hindu India, it raises several crucial questions. Who exactly constitutes this majority Hindu group, which is about 15% of the population? Are we also adding the children, women, bedridden patients and old people, and families living below the poverty line within this majority Hindu category? If not, no matter what the bargain is, the effective count of the so-called oppressive majority will barely cross 5% of the population. Perhaps many people are unaware that certain castes, which are regarded as upper castes in one state, find themselves on the OBC list of another state or even on the central list. What kinds of assumptions do we have to make, then, to believe that 5% of Indians threaten and oppress the rest of India? Have we reached a point today where not being included in the SC, ST, OBC and minority lists implies being categorised as exploiters and oppressors? Is this the cruelty that the USA and Europe consistently promote?

The deep irony inherent here is that the seemingly pro-minority assertions end up accusing the very communities that they seek to speak for. When people express concerns about the persecution of minorities in India by the so-called majority Hindus, who barely make up 5% of the population, who are they really accusing? If we have become immune to the inherent irony here, it is largely due to our uncritical eagerness to speak up for the so-called oppressed people and demonstrate our moral righteousness. Such eagerness can only generate painfully absurd claims. One cannot defend such absurdity without, wittingly or unwittingly, accusing communities other than the 5% upper castes of persecuting minority groups. This is where those absurd-looking claims harbour incriminating implications. While catchy slogans and hand-waving are indeed crucial in shaping narratives, lacking the basics of critical thinking and research will only take one so far.

Aspirations of Indian Christians

Such illogical claims do not contribute positively to anyones cause. No, we Indian Christians are not facing endless persecution. Our problems and worries are of a different nature. The same issues that trouble a Madiga or a Brahmin also trouble us, like corruption, declining educational standards, poverty, and so on. This is not to deny the existence of social differences between Christians and other groups; they do exist and even hold significance in certain contexts. However, in the world we live in, there are more pressing issues that require attention than social differences. Speaking about my own community, there is an issue that deeply worries me. Although I havent conducted any studies or have any data to substantiate my claim, it is my experience that my community is not producing intellectuals anymore. Let me restrict myself to the Christian community in Karnataka. There is currently a dearth of intellectuals within the community who can effectively analyse our problems and challenges and speak about them. With a few exceptions, this community has not produced any notable poets, novelists, journalists, or other prominent public intellectuals in the past several decades. This has had various repercussions. Consider just one for now. Issues that should not matter to us become important when swayed by media and political narratives. Concomitantly, one of the two groups that lead the community today is those who are politically active. For these people, issues that do not matter to a large percentage of lay Christians (who, like workers in any other community, sweat during the day to rest at night) become rallying points. There are several such issues. For example, persecution of Christians and beef eating. It is not part of our experience as lay Indian Christians that we face any more crimes and violence than our next-door neighbours, be they Kurubas or Vishwakarmas.

As a lay Christian, I believe that the issue of beef consumption is often blown out of proportion in political and media discussions. While beef may be an interesting food option, it neither defines who we are nor ensures our salvation. However, political commentaries and media narratives today make it look as though all that Christians in India want is beef or that they are eating it all the time. It looks as though accepting or rejecting the consumption of beef seems to determine our status as good minority Christians. The media, both internationally and nationally, often discuss the pressure on Christians to give up beef as a form of violence. Isnt the pressure to own up to beef consumption as a mark of being a Christian also a form of violence? We are normal human beings, beset by the usual human problems. It is not beef that we crave; like others, we also want clean water, better roads, and a good education for our kids.

Conclusion

There is a growing sense among various communities today that they have been and are being persecuted. Political, intellectual, and media activism tend to amplify this self-perception and use it for their own benefit. From the perspective of a community, positioning itself as a minority often leads to justifying demands for special privileges. However, presenting oneself as a victimised minority necessitates the identification of an oppressor and the vocalisation of victimhood. Those who want to break this vicious circle need a deeper understanding of its underlying mechanisms and the reasons it holds appeal. In other words, this is a call for further reflection as well as research, not simplistic sloganeering and social media activism.

The author is an independent researcher. Views are personal.

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Chinas Consular Affairs Office said in a statement on Sunday that the Chinese Consulate General in Marseille filed a complaint with France after a bus transporting a Chinese tour group in the southern city had its windows broken, resulting in minor injuries.

According to the statement, the formal protest from the Consulate General demanded that France guarantee the security of Chinese nationals and their property.

According to state television CCTV, protesters assaulted the bus on Thursday during the unrest that has engulfed French towns in recent days following the police shooting of a teenager of North African heritage. According to the statement from the Consular Office, the Chinese visitors have now departed France.

In view of the riots that have recently ravaged the nation, Chinese people in France or travelling there should strengthen prevention and be more vigilant and cautious, according to a statement from the Consular office.

After the teenagers funeral, tens of thousands of police officers were stationed in towns all throughout France. Despite this, there was some unrest in downtown Paris and intermittent fighting in Nice, Strasbourg, and Marseille on Saturday.

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Iran will not send a new ambassador to Sweden in response to the burning of a Koran outside a mosque in Stockholm, according to Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian on Sunday.

On Wednesday, the first day of the Muslim Eid al Adha festivities, a man tore up and burnt a Koran outside Stockholms prominent mosque.

The man who burnt the holy book was charged with incitement against an ethnic or national group by Swedish police. He portrayed himself as an Iraqi refugee wanting to outlaw it in a media interview.

On Thursday, Irans foreign ministry summoned Swedens charge daffaires to denounce what it called an insult to the most hallowed Islamic sanctuaries.

Although administrative procedures to appoint a new ambassador to Sweden have ended, the process of dispatching them has been held off due to the Swedish governments issuing of a permit to desecrate the Holy Koran, Amirabdollahian said on Twitter on Sunday.

He did not specify how long Iran would refrain from sending an ambassador to Sweden.

While Swedish police have rejected several recent applications for anti-Koran demonstrations, courts have overruled those decisions, saying they infringed on freedom of speech.

In its permit for Wednesdays demonstration, Swedish police said that while it may have foreign policy consequences, the security risks and consequences linked to a Koran burning were not of such a nature that the application should be rejected.

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The Ministry of Defence said on Sunday that Israel has authorised the acquisition of a third squadron of F-35 stealth fighter fighters in a $3 billion contract.

The extra 25 Lockheed Martin (LMT.N) F-35s will raise the total number of F-35s in Israels air force to 75, according to the ministry, which added that the contract will be funded through the US defence aid package Israel gets.

The F-35 was acquired by Israel as the first country outside of the United States. According to its air force head, Israel was the first to operate the jet in combat in May 2018.

The F-35 is also known as the Joint Strike Fighter and is known in Israel by its Hebrew name Adir (Mighty).

According to the Israeli Ministry of Defence, Lockheed Martin and engine producer Pratt & Whitney have agreed to integrate Israeli defence industries in the production of aircraft components.

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On Saturday, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy warned that a serious threat existed at the Russian-occupied Zaporizhzhia nuclear power station and that Russia was technically ready to cause a localised explosion there.

Zelenskyy attributed his knowledge to Ukrainian intelligence.

There is a serious threat because Russia is technically ready to provoke a local explosion at the station, which could lead to a (radiation) release, Zelenskyy told a news conference alongside visiting Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez.

He provided no additional information. According to Ukrainian military intelligence, Russian forces mined the factory.

Zelenskyy has asked for more international attention to be paid to the Zaporizhzhia plant, Europes largest civil nuclear facility, and has advocated for sanctions on Russias state nuclear enterprise Rosatom.

Zelenskyy later convened a conference of Ukraines highest military leadership and nuclear power authorities in Rivne, one of the countrys five nuclear power facilities, in the countrys northwest.

The key issues discussed were the security of our northern regions and our measures to strengthen them, Zelenskyy said in his nightly video address, standing in front of the Rivne plant.

Zelenkyys trip to Rivne was a rare journey for the Ukraine leader to an area relatively far from the fighting. But it is near the border with Belarus, where Russias Wagner mercenaries have a deal to go after last weeks aborted uprising. Their leader Yevgeny Prigozhin was offered the option of resettling in Belarus, on Ukraines northern border.

Energoatom, Ukraines nuclear power authority, said on Friday it had conducted two days of exercises simulating the effects of an attack on the Zaporizhzhia plant.

Russias U.N. ambassador, Vassily Nebenzia, issued a statement describing the Ukrainian allegations as simply preposterous. Russia has dismissed any suggestion it plans to attack or sabotage the Zaporizhzhia plant. Each side accuses the other of shelling near the facility.

Sanchez said his visit to the Ukrainian capital was meant to underscore his support for Ukraine as Spain kicks off the six-month rotating EU presidency. Spain would provide an additional 55 million euro ($60 million) financial package for Ukraine to help the economy and small businesses, he said.

The Zaporizhzhia plant, located near the city of Enerhodar in southern Ukraine, has been occupied by Russia since shortly after Moscows invasion in February 2022.

Ukraine, then part of the Soviet Union, suffered the worlds worst nuclear accident in 1986 when clouds of radioactive material spread across much of Europe after an explosion and fire at the Chernobyl nuclear power plant.

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Syria said it repelled a missile barrage from Israel on Sunday after parts of a Syrian anti-aircraft missile struck a rural village without injuring anybody.

In recent months, Israel has increased its raids on Syrian airports and air bases in order to impede Irans growing use of aerial supply lines to carry weaponry to allies in Syria and Lebanon, particularly Lebanons Hezbollah.

According to Syrian official media, air defences intercepted and destroyed the majority of Israeli missiles launched over the countrys central regions. According to a Syrian army statement, missiles that flew over areas of Lebanons capital Beirut landed places near the city of Homs, causing mainly material damage.

Reuters was unable to corroborate the report immediately.

According to an Israeli military spokeswoman, aeroplanes targeted a Syrian air defence installation from which an anti-aircraft missile was launched into Israel.

According to Israeli police, parts of the Syrian missile fell near Rahat, a village some 180 kilometres (110 miles) south of the armistice line between the two nations, after a mid-air explosion audible throughout Israel. There had been no reports of casualties.

Local media depicted the charred front end of a huge missile standing erect among residential structures, as well as tail-fins in a field.

The Israeli military claimed that their jets were unharmed.

The Israeli strikes are part of an escalation of what has been a low-intensity conflict continuing for years with a goal of slowing Irans growing entrenchment in Syria, Israeli military experts say.

Tehrans influence has grown in Syria since it began supporting President Bashar al-Assad in the civil war that started in 2011.

Fighters allied to Iran, including Hezbollah, now hold sway in areas in eastern, southern and northwestern Syria and in several suburbs around the capital.

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News / Local

by Staff reporter

Zimbabwe has warned foreign observer missions to the August 23 elections to stick to their mandate and abandon any attempts to interfere with the much-awaited national poll process.The call was made by acting Foreign Affairs and International Trade Minister Amon Murwira at a Friday signing ceremony between the EU embassy and the ministry."The government of the Republic of Zimbabwe is inviting all entities to come and observe the harmonised elections," said the minister."The teams are however reminded that their purpose is solely to observe, not to monitor the election process."The ministry outlines the administrative arrangements guiding the observation of the 2023 harmonised elections.The EU is set to deploy 150 observers to Zimbabwe with the first batch expected in the country starting next week.Italian lawmaker Fabio Castaldo, also a Member of the European parliament, would be EU Chief Observer to the Zimbabwe mission.Murwira urged the incoming EU observers to "maintain strict impartiality, objectivity and independence" when discharging their mandate."The EU EOM and its members will maintain strict impartiality, objectivity and independence in the conduct of their mandate."All EU observers shall respect the Code of Conduct in terms of the First Schedule of the Zimbabwe Electoral Act [Chapter 2:13]," he said.Speaking at the same event, EU Head of Mission to Zimbabwe, Ambassador Jobst von Kirchmann reiterated the observer team's impartiality and compliance with set regulations."It's an important moment and I would like to sincerely thank the government of Zimbabwe for inviting us for this election observation."This election observation mission will obey Zimbabwe regulations and also the EU code of conduct. They will be strictly impartial. This is part of the agreement we just signed," he said.Kirchmann commended the Zimbabwe government and political parties for committing to the holding of peaceful elections."This is a sign of commitment for Zimbabwe to hold credible, peaceful and inclusive elections."This resonates with us and is the reason why we are deploying an election observer mission because we would like to contribute to a more robust electoral environment," he said.The EU observer mission is taking part in its second such Zimbabwe assignment since President Emmerson Mnangagwa in 2018 lifted a ban that had previously been imposed on the group by predecessor Robert Mugabe who cited inherent bias against his party Zanu-PF by the bloc's agents.
News / National

by Staff reporter

The Zanu-PF party has labeled its former commissar, Savior Kasukuwere, who is running for president, as a "criminal" who lacks the ability to win over the public, a development that some analysts said shows the ruling party is uneasy about his involvement in the race.This comes after police in Zimbabwe said they have two outstanding warrants of arrest for the South Africa-based presidential candidate and will arrest him if he comes home.Speaking at Zanu-PF's star rally held at Nyele Primary School in Bulilima District, South on Saturday, Dr Obert Mpofu, the ruling party's secretary for administration, said there was no legitimate opposition in Zimbabwe that could stand up to the ruling party."Because we have leadership that is wise and has direction, there is no need for opposition in Zimbabwe but these leaders fought for this country and shed blood. What we call opposition now, we would describe as sellouts during that time and some in the opposition are still selling out," he said.Dr Mpofu then addressed Kasukuwere's presidential campaign, claiming the former Zanu-PF commissar was a criminal who fled the country after committing crimes.He added that Kasukuwere was mistaken in believing he could form a political party in another country to lead Zimbabweans from there."A person leaves the country, running away from their crimes in Zimbabwe then goes to South Africa and forms a political party. Someone who is a criminal, forms a political party in South Africa with the intention of wanting to rule Zimbabwe we won't accept that but Mnangangwa has empathy and allows everyone who feels they want to contest in elections, no matter how misguided, to open their political party here and confuse people," said Dr Mpofu.Meanwhile, Kasukuwere has filed an application seeking the cancellation of his warrant of arrest to allow him to contest in the August 23 presidential race.The warrant of arrest was issued on January 17, 2019.The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) then sought Kasukuwere's extradition from South Africa in early 2020, but Interpol said the case was political.Former Harare magistrate Hosea Mujaya issued the warrant after the former Cabinet minister in the late, former President Robert Mugabe's administration failed to appear for trial on four counts of criminal abuse of power.Analysts have said Kasukuwere is likely to erode Mnangagwa's support base and swing the election in favour of main opposition Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) leader Nelson Chamisa, either for him to win or cause a run-off.Kasukuwere is following a familiar path taken by some former Zanu-PF members to ditch the party and challenge for the presidency. In 2008, Simba Makoni a key Zanu-PF figure left the party to run for president against Mugabe, garnering 8.3% of the vote.
Quiz Answer Key and Fun Facts

Answer:



Sir Winston Churchill (1874-1965), took over from Neville Chamberlain as Britain's prime minister, and gave the speech alluded to approximately two weeks after the evacuation of troops from the continent via Dunkirk had been completed in early June. It was in this speech that he uttered the words "their finest hour" as well. The speech in which he dubbed the pilots of the Battle of Britain "The Few" was given in August 1940, while the Battle was ongoing.



ACM Hugh "Stuffy" Dowding had been due to retire in 1939, but with the outbreak of war was asked to stay on, which he did until just after the Battle ended. His efforts to retain aircraft for the defence of Britain, instead of sending them all to France, played a large part in the success of the RAF in 1940. He also had the task of balancing the opposing philosophies of Park and Leigh-Mallory to achieve the desired results. Once the Battle had been won, both Dowding and Keith Park were somewhat snubbed, with the Big Wing philosophy of Leigh-Mallory prevailing, though it became an offensive formation thereafter.



Douglas Bader was in command of a squadron made up of mostly Canadian pilots during the Battle, and was quick to embrace the Big Wing, leading several such formations, consisting of several squadrons. His story can be read in "Reach for the Sky" by Paul Brickhill.

The Junkers Ju87 Stuka was a dive bomber that could be quite terrifying to witness in its screeching dive towards its target, but the Luftwaffe also used more conventional bombers, like the Ju88, the Heinkel He11 and the Dornier Do17, nicknamed the Flying Pencil. The Messerschmitt Bf109 was the chief protector of the bomber formations, with the twin-engined Bf110 proving less successful in the role.



On the RAF side, the glamour aircraft was the Spitfire, with its elliptical wings, purring Merlin engine and near perfection in so many ways. The Hurricane was the workhorse, despite being close to obsolete at the outbreak of war, while the Defiant was essentially a death trap in daytime operations (though it had some success as a night fighter).



The claims of 15 September were, of course, inflated, but that day was of enough significance that it came to be marked in later years as Battle of Britain Day (later moved to the nearest Sunday).
News / National

by Staff reporter

Zanu-PF Matebeleland South provincial chairperson Mangaliso Ndlovu, mocked the opposition Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) party and compared them to cockroaches, sentiments that evoked 'painful' memories of the Gukurahundi genocide that occurred in the region in the 1980s.While welcoming President Emmerson Mnangagwa to the Zanu-PF star rally on Saturday at Nyele Primary in Bulilima District, Ndlovu said the ruling party was more organised than the CCC, whose candidate selection process had been marred by controversy and publicly referred to the opposition party as "confused cockroaches.""Matebeleland South province is well organised, we don't even have a single independent candidate here in Zanu-PF while there are others who are confused. We wonder if they are a Convention for Confused Cockroaches because what happened during nomination day shows you can't give them a chance to lead a village, now what more if they are to lead a country," he said.According to the Zanu-PF provincial chair, Matebeleland South was under opposition control for 13 years, from 2000 to 2013, but failed to make a difference in the province."We know how it is to be under the opposition in various districts here in Matebeleland South. Matebeleland South was fully liberated in 2013 and the development that has come under Zanu-PF is astounding," Ndlovu claimed.Ndlovu who is also the Minister of Environment , Climate, Tourism and Hospitality Industry, challenged the opposition to show what it achieved for Matebeleland South."For the record, we challenge the opposition to say what it has done from 2002 to 2013 while we shall tell them that from 2013 to now, Zanu-PF worked. From 2018 to now, under Mnangagwa's leadership, his works are evident," said the provincial chairperson.He also thanked President Mnangagwa for choosing to visit Bulilima and commemorate the anniversary of the late nationalist, Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo of Matebeleland South who died on July 1, in 1999."We want to thank you because today (Saturday) is a big day. It was a Thursday in July 1, at 9am when the late (former) president, Robert Mugabe, announced the passing of Umdala Wethu, Father Zimbabwe. Today is July 1 and you chose to be here on this big day, where Zimbabweans celebrate the works of Nkomo's life, who offered himself to liberate this country, build the country and unite people," Ndlovu said.Ndlovu added that in honour of Nkomo, who hailed from Matebeleland South, people in the province will vote for Zanu-PF."In Nkomo's honour and in honour of your hard work, Matebeleland South will not go to the opposition ever again," claimed the provincial chair who said that in the past three years, President Mnangagwa has visited various parts of Matebeleland South."You have been to Beitbridge, Gwanda, Insiza, Matobo and Mangwe. Today you are here in Bulilima. We had a president who for 33 years did not come here but you in four years have been here and uplifted development in our province."Ndlovu also said the province was grateful that President Mnangagwa had revived the Joshua Mqabuko Polytechnic in Gwanda which had been lying idle for years." For more than 40 years we wanted a polytechnic to impart skills to the young and in two years it is finished, we don't have the words to thank you. In three years, Gwanda State University is up, you also provided cows for projects and things are moving. We have Thulimanyangwe Dam that you are building for us. We want to thank you for the irrigation schemes here in Bulilima," said Ndlovu."The party in the province is grateful for your work, the party members will vote for you on August 23, 2023. We thank you for coming here to enjoy with us in Bulilima, before people proceed to enjoy again in Maphisa (where Zanu-PF was hosting two rallies at these respective places in honour of Dr Nkomo's legacy."
FBI Turning to Social Media to Track Traitors

By Jeff Seldin July 01, 2023

If you logged onto social media over the past few months, you may have seen it - a video of the Russian Embassy on a gray, overcast day in Washington with the sounds of passing cars and buses in the background.

A man's voice asks in English, "Do you want to change your future?" Russian subtitles appear on the bottom of the screen and the narrator makes note of the first anniversary of "Russia's further invasion of Ukraine."

As somber music begins to play, the camera pans to the left and takes the viewer down Wisconsin Avenue, to the Adams Morgan Metro station and on through Washington, ending at FBI headquarters, a few blocks from the White House.

"The FBI values you. The FBI can help you," FBI Assistant Director Alan Koehler says as the video wraps up, Russian subtitles still appearing on the screen. "But only you have the power to take the first step."

The video, put out by the FBI's Washington Field Office, first appeared as a posting on the field office's Twitter account on February 24. Another five versions started the same day as paid advertisements on Facebook and Instagram, costing the bureau an estimated $5,500 to $6,500.

That money may seem like a pittance for a government agency with an annual budget of more than $10 billion, but it was not the first nor the last time the FBI spent money to court Russian officials.

The video is part of an expansive, long-running campaign by the FBI to use social media advertisements to recruit disgruntled Russian officials stationed across the United States and beyond, in part to sniff out Americans who have betrayed their country in order to aid Moscow.

A VOA analysis finds the FBI has paid tens of thousands of dollars, at minimum, to multiple platforms for social media ads targeting Russian officials, with the pace of such ad buys increasing just before and then after Moscow launched its latest invasion of Ukraine.

Multiple former U.S. counterintelligence officials who spoke to VOA about the FBI's efforts described the advertising as money well spent.

The FBI wants to find well-placed Russian officials who can "help identify where American spies may be," said Douglas London, a three-decade veteran of the CIA's Clandestine Service.

"It seeks Russian agents to catch and convict American spies and Russian illegals," he told VOA, describing the mission as a part of the bureau's DNA.

Another veteran CIA official, Jim Olson, agreed, telling VOA the goal of the FBI's outreach to Russian officials is unmistakable.

"I call that hanging out the shingle," said Olson, a former counterintelligence chief.

"For every American traitor, every American spy, there are members of that intelligence service who know the identity of that American or know enough about what the production is to give us a lead in doing the identification," Olson said.

'All available tools'

The FBI declined to comment directly on its decision to spend several thousand dollars to run the two-minute-long video as an ad on Facebook and Instagram, simply saying it "uses a variety of means" to gather intelligence.

"The FBI will evaluate all available tools to protect the national security interests of the United States," the FBI's Washington Field Office told VOA in an email. "And we will use all legal means available to locate individuals with information that can help protect the United States from threats to our national security."

Some of the FBI's earlier forays into social media advertising did get some public attention, first in October 2019 and then again in March of last year.

However, a review of publicly available data indicates the bureau's use of social media for counterintelligence is more expansive than previously understood.

According to data in the Meta Ad Library, which contains information on Facebook and Instagram ads dating back to May 2018, the FBI and its field offices have so far spent just under $40,000 on ads targeting Russian speakers, generating as many as 6.9 million views.

While most of the ads targeted specific locations, like Washington and New York, some were seen much further afield, getting views across much of the United States and even in countries like Spain, Poland, Nigeria, France and Croatia.

It would also appear the FBI's paid ads ran on platforms other than Meta.

Nicholas Murphy, a 20-year-old second-year student at Georgetown University in Washington, was in his dorm room last March searching for news about Russia's invasion of Ukraine when he saw an ad on YouTube, the video-sharing social media platform owned by Google.

"[It was] just text with a kind of a strange like background to it ... all in Russian," said Murphy, a Park City, Utah, native who does not speak Russian and who used a translator app to decipher the ad.

"At the time I didn't know if it was coming from the Russian government, if it was coming from our government, if it was kind of propaganda, if it was fake," Murphy told VOA. "It conjured up a lot of thoughts about Russian influence over Facebook ads in the [2016 U.S.] election."

Murphy said he came across the ad another two to three times over the ensuing weeks. And, it turned out, he was not alone. A handful of other students were also starting to see some of the ads, including a couple of classmates in a Russian literature class.

Just how many ads the FBI paid to run on YouTube, or via Google, is unclear.

A search of Google's recently launched Ad Transparency Center shows the FBI paid to run the Russian language version of its two-minute-long video most recently on April 28. But the database only shows information for the past 30 days and Google says it does not share information on advertiser spending.

It is also unclear whether the FBI paid to run any ads on Twitter in addition to pushing out information through its own Twitter accounts. Twitter responded to an email from VOA requesting information with its now standard poop emoji.

The FBI itself refused to provide details regarding the scope of its social media advertising efforts although the Washington Field Office did acknowledge to VOA via email that it uses "various social media platforms."

The Washington Field Office also defended its use of social media advertising despite indications that the ads themselves, like the one seen by Georgetown University student Nicholas Murphy, do not always reach the intended audience.

"The FBI views these efforts as productive and cost effective," the FBI's Washington Field Office told VOA. The office declined to be more specific about whether any spies have been identified as a result of the ads.

"Russia has long been a counterintelligence threat to the U.S. and the FBI will continue to adapt our investigative and outreach techniques to counter that threat and others," it said. "We will use all legal means available to locate individuals with information that can help protect the United States from threats to our national security."

The Russian Embassy in Washington did not respond to calls or emails from VOA seeking comment about the FBI's use of social media advertisements to target Russian officials in the U.S. But Russian Ambassador Anatoly Antonov did respond to a March 2022 article by The Washington Post about FBI efforts to send ads to cell phones outside the Russian Embassy in Washington.

"Attempts to sow confusion and organize desertion among the staff of @RusEmbUSA are ridiculous," Antonov was quoted as saying in a tweet by the embassy's Twitter account.

Some former U.S. counterintelligence officials, though, argue Russia has reason to be worried.

"I think people will come out of the woodwork," said Olson, the former CIA counterintelligence chief.

FBI agents "see what we all see, and that is that there must be a subset of Russian intelligence officers, SVR officers, GRU officers, who are disillusioned by what's going on," he told VOA.

"I think some good Russians are embarrassed, shocked, ashamed of what Putin is doing in Ukraine, killing brother and sister Slavs. And I think that there will be people who would like to strike back against that."

London, the longtime CIA Clandestine Services official and author of The Recruiter: Spying and the Lost Art of American Intelligence, likewise believes the FBI's persistent efforts to reach disgruntled Russians on social media will pay off.

"Generally, the Russians who have worked with us have done so out of patriotism ... they were upset with the government," he said.

And the Russian officials that the FBI hopes to reach just need a bit of nudge.

"They're aiming this at Russians who are already there mentally but just haven't crossed," London said, adding it is not a coincidence that many of the FBI ads show Russians exactly how to get in touch, whether via encrypted communication apps like Signal or by walking right up to the bureau's front door.

"They're not doing metaphors here," he said. "They don't want anything subject to interpretation."

Even the language used by the FBI appears to be designed to build trust.

"It's very much not native," according to Bradley Gorski, with Georgetown University's Department of Slavic Languages.

But given the overall quality of the language in the ads, Gorski said it is quite possible all of it is intentional.

"It might be a canny strategy on their part," he said of the FBI. "If they are reaching out to Russian speakers and want to both communicate with them but let them know who is communicating with them is not a Russian speaker, but is a sort of American doing their best, then this kind of outreach with a little bit stilted, though correct, Russian might communicate that actually better than fully native sort of fluent speech."

Whether the FBI's spending on social media advertisements is achieving the desired results is hard to gauge. Public metrics such those provided by social media companies like Meta can give a sense of how many people are seeing the ads, and where they are, but do not shed much light on who is ultimately interacting with the ads to the point of a response.

When pressed, FBI officials tell VOA only that the bureau views the ad campaigns as productive.

Others agree.

"Relative to the hardcore military aid the U.S. has provided, that's a small chunk of change," said Jason Blazakis, a senior research fellow at The Soufan Center, a global intelligence firm.

And Blazakis, who also directs the Center on Terrorism, Extremism, and Counterterrorism at the Middlebury Institute of International Studies, thinks the FBI's social media ads might be having an impact even if few Russian officials ever come forward with information.

"Part of it is also messaging to the broader Russian public," he told VOA, pointing to Russia's invasion of Ukraine. "There is this influence operational component to it, part of this PR [public relations] battle that is happening on the periphery of the conflict."

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In South Korea, Hokanson assesses potential National Guard support

By Master Sgt. Jim Greenhill, National Guard Bureau June 30, 2023

SEOUL, South Korea -- Assessing how the National Guard might support U.S. and Republic of Korea forces at a time of deepening defense and security ties between the two nations was top of mind for Army Gen. Daniel Hokanson during his recent visit here.

"As a globally proven combat operational reserve with strategic depth, the National Guard is prepared to provide additional support to U.S. Forces Korea, and we can contribute to improving the training and capabilities of Republic of Korea Reserves, if desired," Hokanson said.

On his first stop on a three-nation Indo-Pacific trip, the National Guard's most senior general met with U.S. and South Korean leaders and visited the Demilitarized Zone, or DMZ, where he saw firsthand the improved collaboration between U.S. and South Korean forces to maintain the integrity of this key friction point on the Korean Peninsula.

"This alliance is a linchpin of regional stability and has prevented a resumption of hostilities that shredded the post-World War II peace on the Korean Peninsula almost 72 years ago," Army Gen. Paul LaCamera, commander, U.S. Forces Korea, told a congressional subcommittee earlier this year.

One of the world's most heavily guarded borders, the 155-mile DMZ was established in 1953 as a buffer zone between South Korea and North Korea following the Korean War. A "frozen conflict," the war ended with an armistice and ceasefire but no final peace treaty.

The National Guard has played a role in every conflict in U.S. history, and one-third of the Army National Guard's total strength  or six divisions  mobilized to fight the Korean War. 80% of the Air National Guard mobilized.

Hokanson's May 14-16 visit followed South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol's state visit to the United States in April, during which Yoon and President Joe Biden commemorated the 70th anniversary of  and strongly affirmed  the U.S.-South Korea alliance. The two presidents agreed on new initiatives to strengthen defense cooperation, increase joint exercises and deepen extended deterrence.

"[O]ur two nations are deepening and broadening all aspects of our relationship at a breakneck speed," the two leaders said in a joint statement. "The next 70 years of the U.S.-ROK alliance will be the brightest yet."

With a population of more than 51 million, South Korea has 500,000 active-duty troops and 3.1 million reservists. About 28,500 troops comprise U.S. Forces Korea.

"When desired, the National Guard learns from and shares knowledge with our allies and partners," said Hokanson, chief of the National Guard Bureau. "Uniquely, our combat training and resources mean rapid, unified responses to domestic missions such as natural or manmade disasters or public health emergencies."

Security cooperation is one of the Guard's most important missions, Hokanson said, with 100 countries in the 30-year-old Department of Defense National Guard State Partnership Program, including 13 in the Indo-Pacific region.

The National Guard expects to expand the SPP by about 30 more countries, including additional nations in the critically important U.S. Indo-Pacific Command area of responsibility.

"We look forward to helping advance the defense cooperation essential to achieving peace, stability and prosperity in the region," Hokanson said.

Hokanson and Republic of Korea Army Chief of Staff Gen. Park Jeong-Hwan discussed expanding exchanges of reserve forces. The two met at Gyeryongdae, headquarters of the Republic of Korea Army, the first time a CNGB had visited the base.

"We will continue to actively communicate with the National Guard, strengthen the military alliance between the two countries, and seek ways to develop future-oriented forces," a Republic of Korea Army statement said.

Established in 1968, the ROK Reserve Forces respond to national emergencies, such as armed conflict, crises and disasters. Troops serve 18 months on active duty before joining the reserves.

"Our National Defense Strategy is a call to action to incorporate our allies and partners in all our planning," Hokanson said. "The National Guard has a proven track record building long-lasting relationships with our allies and partners by consulting and coordinating the modernization of reserve forces and reinforcing existing deterrence capabilities."

Hokanson is the 29th chief of the National Guard Bureau and a member of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. In this capacity, he serves as a military adviser to the president, secretary of defense, and National Security Council and is the Defense Department's official channel of communication to the governors and adjutants general on all Guard matters. He is responsible for ensuring the more than 453,000 Army and Air National Guard personnel are accessible, capable and ready to protect the homeland and provide combat-ready resources to the Army and Air Force.

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Venezuela and Electoral Decisions

US Department of State

Press Statement

Matthew Miller, Department Spokesperson

June 30, 2023

The United States supports the Venezuelan people's constitutional right to elect their leaders via free and fair elections. Today's decision to disqualify Maria Corina Machado from participating in the electoral process deprives the Venezuelan people of basic political rights. Venezuelans deserve the right to select a candidate to participate in presidential elections in 2024 without interference.

The United States also remains deeply concerned by the ongoing efforts to remake the composition of the National Electoral Council (CNE) of Venezuela. A strong and independent CNE is indispensable for free, fair, and competitive elections. Ensuring all Venezuelan voices are represented in the CNE adds to its credibility and bolsters voter confidence.

We stand in solidarity with all Venezuelans in their efforts to achieve free and fair elections in 2024, the restoration of democratic institutions, and an end to the humanitarian crisis in Venezuela. We will continue to work with our international partners to address the urgent needs of Venezuelans inside and outside their country. The United States will also hold accountable those who seek to thwart the will of the Venezuelan people.

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Joint statement by Australia, Canada and the United Kingdom following recent events in Israel and the West Bank

Minister for Foreign Affairs

Joint statement with:

The Honourable Melanie Joly, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Canada

The Rt Hon James Cleverly MP, Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, United Kingdom

01 July 2023

The Foreign Ministers of Australia, Canada and the UK are deeply concerned by recent events in Israel and the West Bank which further reduce the prospects for peace.

We are gravely concerned by the Government of Israel's approval on June 26 of over 5,700 new settlement units in the West Bank. We are also concerned by the changes to the settlement approval process instituted by the Government of Israel on June 18, which facilitate swifter approval of construction in settlements.

The continued expansion of settlements is an obstacle to peace and negatively impacts efforts to achieve a negotiated two-state solution. We call on the Government of Israel to reverse these decisions.

We are also deeply troubled by the continued violence and loss of life in Israel and in the West Bank. We unequivocally condemn all forms of terrorism and violence against civilians, including the terrorist attack on June 20 in Eli targeting Israeli civilians. We also condemn the reprehensible and ongoing settler violence targeting Palestinians. We welcome the joint statement from the heads of the Israel Defense Forces, Israel Security Agency and the Israel Police as well as statements by other Israeli leaders condemning these acts. We call on authorities to ensure accountability for all perpetrators of violence.

The cycle of violence in Israel and the West Bank must be broken.

Australia, Canada and the UK stand firmly with the Israeli and Palestinian people in their right to live in peace and security, with dignity, without fear and with their human rights fully respected. We continue to support a comprehensive, just, and lasting peace in the Middle East, including the creation of a Palestinian state living side by side in peace and security with Israel. This vision can only be achieved through direct negotiations between the parties.

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Exchange of list of prisoners between India and Pakistan

India - Ministry of External Affairs

July 01, 2023

India and Pakistan today exchanged, through diplomatic channels simultaneously at New Delhi and Islamabad, the lists of civilian prisoners and fishermen in their custody. Under the provisions of the 2008 Agreement on Consular Access, such lists are exchanged every year on 1st January and 1st July.

India has shared lists of 343 civilian prisoners and 74 fishermen in its custody, who are Pakistani or are believed to be Pakistani. Similarly, Pakistan has shared lists of 42 civilian prisoners and 266 fishermen in its custody, who are Indian or are believed to be Indian.

The Government has called for early release and repatriation of civilian prisoners, missing Indian defence personnel, and fishermen along with their boats, from Pakistan's custody. In this context, Pakistan was asked to expedite the release and repatriation of 254 Indian fishermen and 04 Indian civilian prisoners, who have completed their sentence. In addition, Pakistan has been asked to provide immediate consular access to the remaining 12 fishermen and 14 civilian prisoners in Pakistan's custody, who are believed to be Indian. Pakistan has been requested to ensure the safety, security and welfare of all Indian and believed to be Indian civilian prisoners and fishermen, pending their release and repatriation to India.

India remains committed to addressing, on priority, all humanitarian matters, including those pertaining to prisoners and fishermen in each other's country. In this context, India has urged Pakistan to expedite necessary action at its end to confirm the nationality status of 62 believed to be Pakistani prisoners, including fishermen, whose repatriation is pending for want of nationality confirmation from Pakistan.

As a result of sustained efforts by the Government, 2559 Indian fishermen and 63 Indian civilian prisoners have been repatriated from Pakistan since 2014. This includes 398 Indian fishermen and 05 Indian civilian prisoners who were repatriated from Pakistan this year, so far.

New Delhi

July 01, 2023

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News / National

by Mandla Ndlovu

In a groundbreaking development set to transform Africa's tourism landscape, the Africa Tourism Promotion Centre, Miss Tourism Tanzania, AfriUSA Business Initiative LLC, and Fencorp Global have forged a strategic agreement. This momentous partnership, brokered by the esteemed Edd Branson, renowned for his Africa Tourism Promotion Initiative, holds great promise for enhancing Africa's tourism sector.Chairman Erasto Chipungahelo of the Africa Tourism Promotion Centre emphasized the enormous untapped potential of Africa's tourism industry, boasting stunning natural landscapes, diverse cultures, and a rich heritage. However, the sector has faced numerous challenges, including limited exposure, disjointed marketing strategies, and inadequate infrastructure. This partnership aims to address these issues head-on and position Africa as the ultimate travel destination.The Africa Tourism Promotion Centre, an organization dedicated to promoting travel and tourism in Africa, will leverage its expertise and resources to showcase the continent's unique attractions. Teaming up with Miss Tourism Tanzania, a leading beauty pageant that showcases the country's tourism potential, this collaboration will spotlight Tanzania's awe-inspiring landscapes, wildlife, and cultural heritage, while also highlighting the diverse opportunities for adventure and relaxation.The involvement of AfriUSA Business Initiative LLC brings valuable expertise in business development and entrepreneurship to the table. Leveraging their established network of entrepreneurs, investors, and business leaders, AfriUSA will contribute to the growth and sustainability of tourism-related ventures throughout Africa. This collaboration seeks to establish synergies between the tourism industry and other sectors, fostering economic development and job creation.Adding another crucial aspect to the agreement is Fencorp Global, a renowned financial institution with extensive experience in investment and project financing. Their expertise will facilitate the necessary development of infrastructure required to accommodate the expected surge in tourism. This includes enhancing accommodations, transportation, and connectivity across Africa.Edd Branson, the visionary behind this collaboration, has long been dedicated to showcasing the full potential of African tourism. Through his Africa Tourism Promotion Initiative, Branson's efforts have gained global recognition, promoting the continent's diverse tourist destinations and opportunities. By facilitating this partnership, Branson has played a pivotal role in bringing together stakeholders to create a unified front for the advancement of African tourism.This agreement holds immense promise for Africa's tourism sector, alluring visitors from around the world with the prospect of unique experiences awaiting them on the continent. From the majestic Serengeti plains and the awe-inspiring Victoria Falls to vibrant cultural festivals and historical sites, this collaboration aims to showcase Africa's diverse offerings and position it as an irresistible destination.Regina Hayley from AfriUSA Business Initiative stated, "The impact of this partnership extends far beyond tourism. It is expected to generate employment, improve infrastructure, showcase the continent's cultural diversity, and stimulate economic growth. Furthermore, it aims to dispel outdated stereotypes and highlight Africa's vibrant and evolving present."Erasto Chipungahelo added, "As we celebrate this agreement, let us recognize the concerted efforts of the Africa Tourism Promotion Centre, Miss Tourism Tanzania, AfriUSA Business Initiative LLC, Fencorp Global, and the visionary Edd Branson. Their commitment to promoting Africa's tourism potential serves as an inspiration to stakeholders across the continent and the global community."Indeed, this partnership marks a milestone in advancing Africa's tourism industry. With a shared vision and collaborative spirit, these organizations are poised to unlock the untapped potential of the continent's travel sector, ensuring a brighter and more prosperous future for Africa's tourism industry and its people."
Telephone conversation with President of Palestine Mahmoud Abbas

Vladimir Putin had a telephone conversation with President of the State of Palestine Mahmoud Abbas at the Palestinian side's initiative.

July 1, 2023

13:15

The Palestinian President expressed his full support for the Russian leadership's actions to defend the constitutional order and the rule of law during the events of June 24.

The two leaders stated their mutual commitment to the further progressive development of the traditionally friendly Russia-Palestine relations. The President of Russia reaffirmed his principled stance supporting a just and sustainable solution to the Palestinian-Israeli conflict based on existing international laws.

Vladimir Putin congratulated Mahmoud Abbas and all Palestinians on Eid al-Adha holiday.

It was agreed to maintain contacts.

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Exchange of Lists of Prisoners between Pakistan and India

Pakistan Ministry of Foreign Affairs

Consistent with the provisions of the 2008 Agreement on Consular Access, the Government of Pakistan today handed over a list of 308 Indian prisoners in Pakistan (42 civilian prisoners and 266 fishermen) to the High Commission of India in Islamabad.

The Government of India handed over the list of Pakistani prisoners in Indian jails to Pakistan High Commission, New Delhi. According to the list, there are a total of 417 Pakistanis in Indian jails (343 civilian prisoners and 74 fishermen).

The Government of India has been urged to release and repatriate all those Pakistani civilian prisoners and fishermen, who have completed their respective sentence and their national status stands confirmed.

Pakistan and India exchange the lists of prisoners in each other's custody on 1st January and 1st July, every year. The exchange takes place in pursuance of the Agreement on Consular Access, signed on 21 May 2008.

Islamabad

1 July 2023

133/2023

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Venezuela says US interfering in its presidential election

Iran Press TV

Saturday, 01 July 2023 5:03 PM

Venezuela says the United States is interfering in its upcoming elections, a day after Washington criticized Caracas for barring an opposition candidate from holding public office for 15 years.

Venezuela's government disqualified opposition candidate Maria Corina Machado, from holding office.

The country's controller general said in an official statement on Friday that a previous ban on Machado, has been extended because she supported US sanctions against the government of President Nicolas Maduro.

She was barred from holding office in 2015 for 12 months.

The US State Department questioned the move to bar Machado, saying Venezuelans should be able to act freely in the 2024 presidential elections.

"[The] decision to disqualify Machado from participating in the electoral process deprives the Venezuelan people of basic political rights," it said.

In a statement on Saturday, the Caracas government firmly rejected "the new attempt by the government of the United States to interfere in its internal affairs."

It also defended its actions as a sovereign and independent nation.

The Washington-based Organization of American States (OAS) also rejected the decision to bar Machado.

"The regime resorts to disqualifications and proscriptions to cling to power and liquidate any likeness to democracy while it deepens the political, social, humanitarian and economic crisis the country is living through," the OAS said in a statement.

Machado has been disqualified on the basis of "administrative irregularities" during her tenure as a deputy, according to Venezuelan authorities.

She is also accused of backing the parallel presidency of opposition figure Juan Guaido.

Machado, the former lawmaker, described the ban to her supporters as "rubbish" saying that it would not affect her campaign.

"It only shows one thing: they know they're defeated," she said, referring to the government.

Under the bam, Machado will not be able to register with electoral authorities and therefore run for the presidential election.

Venezuela's opposition said it will hold primary elections in October in hopes of selecting a single candidate to rival Maduro in the 2024 presidential vote.

Venezuela descended into political turmoil after Guaido unilaterally declared himself "interim president" in January 2019, arguing that Maduro's reelection in 2018 was fraudulent.

With Washington's greenlight and help from a small number of rogue soldiers, Guaido later launched a botched putsch against the elected government.

The US recognized Guaido as the legitimate leader of Venezuela and publicly pursued a "regime change" policy against Maduro.

Washington also imposed crippling sanctions against the oil-rich Latin American country in an unsuccessful effort to oust Maduro.

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World Food Program says food assistance for Afghans running out

Iran Press TV

Saturday, 01 July 2023 4:54 PM

The United Nations World Food Program (WFP) has announced that it lacks the funds to provide food assistance to millions of hungry people in cash-strapped Afghanistan.

WFP Director for Afghanistan Hsiao-Wei Lee told the Reuters news agency on Friday that food assistance to Afghanistan will shrink to nothing by the end of October under their current funding projections.

"It's five million people we are able to serve for another couple of months but then beyond that we don't have the resources," the WFP director told Reuters. "That I think conveys the urgency of where we stand."

The WFP estimates based on donor countries' promised contributions so far, indicate that food reductions would start in August and drop further in September until the funds finish and the UN agency's food assistance stops completely in October.

Meanwhile, reportedly half of the almost 40 million population of Afghanistan are grappling with hunger and malnutrition; however, due to the drop in donations, the WFP was forced to slash rations and cash assistance from 8 million Afghans in 2023.

UN officials link the lack of funds to the current global financial crises and strained government budgets.

They also link lesser contributions by donor countries to what they claim is the ruling Taliban's mismanagement of the country that has led to its decline.

Meantime, people in the war-ravaged country have been tormented by grinding poverty and hunger for decades, but since the botched exit of the US-led international forces and the Taliban's sweeping takeover in August 2021, the country has been teetering on the brink of a major humanitarian catastrophe.

In 2022, a top official at the UN food agency described the situation in Afghanistan as the "worst humanitarian crisis on earth" while a senior executive of the UN Development Program called it the worst humanitarian disaster he has "ever seen".

Assets freeze by the US destroyed Afghanistan's fragile economy

After the Taliban gained control of Kabul in August of 2021, the US and its international partners raced to cut off Afghanistan's access to international aid.

The US-led coalition froze roughly $10 billion in assets belonging to Afghanistan's Central Bank, claiming it did not recognize the new government in Kabul. This led to the swift collapse of the economy and the current plight of the Afghans.

Conditions got worse after cruel and inhumane sanctions were imposed by the West on the ruling Taliban leaders in Kabul, precipitating the crisis.

The European Union then followed suit, halting development assistance to the country, followed by the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank, all claiming they did not approve of the new leaders.

Calls for the US to return the frozen assets to revive Afghanistan's economy, curb high unemployment, and end widespread hunger, particularly among Afghan children, have been dismissed till now, showing the West's total disregard for human life in Afghanistan.

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UN ends Mali peacekeeping mission at government request

Iran Press TV

Saturday, 01 July 2023 10:23 AM

The United Nations Security Council has voted to end a decade-old peacekeeping mission in Mali after the country's Foreign Minister Abdoulaye Diop called the operation a "failure" and demanded its immediate halt.

As peacekeepers need the consent of the host government, the Security Council voted unanimously to immediately begin winding down the mission.

Mali's UN Ambassador Issa Konfourou also said his country regrets that the Security Council continues to consider the situation in Mali as "a threat to international peace and security."

"Mali remains open to cooperating with all partners that wish to work with it, subject to respecting the guiding principles of our state policies."

Konfourou said Mali would closely cooperate with the United Nations.

British UN Ambassador Barbara Woodward, however, voiced concern at the UN over the timing of the withdrawal and the alleged involvement of the Wagner group.

"The United Kingdom would not have chosen to withdraw MINUSMA at this moment, when Mali and the wider Sahel are facing increasing instability and humanitarian needs and we do not believe that partnership with the Wagner group will deliver long term stability or security for the Malian people," said Woodward.

Shortly after the vote of withdrawal which is set to be completed by the end of the year, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov called Diop and promised "unstinting support" for Mali in the military, humanitarian and economic areas.

Russia's deputy ambassador to the UN, Anna Evstigneeva, also promised "comprehensive support" to Mali, which she said wanted to take "full responsibility" for its security.

Evstigneeva also told the Security Council that Mali had made a "sovereign decision."

"We would like to confirm our support for Bamako in its aspiration to take full responsibility and play the leading role in stabilizing the Malian state," she said. "Russia will continue to provide comprehensive support to Mali for normalizing the situation in that country on a bilateral basis."

Under the resolution led by France, the peacekeepers will cease their main activity from Saturday and focus on departure.

However, they will still be empowered to protect against allegedly "imminent threats of violence to civilians" through September.

The UN operation which is known as MINUSMA has been the most costly mission for the UN at $1.2 billion a year, and 174 peacekeepers have died since its creation in 2013.

Secretary-General Antonio Guterres earlier in June had proposed renewing MINUSMA but streamlining its activities. He also acknowledged shortcomings but called the mission "invaluable."

Mali had slammed France last year of violating its airspace and providing weapons to terrorists and armed groups.

With 13,000 troops and police in MINUSMA, its termination will be a Herculean task, with the United Nations needing to take away equipment, helicopters and armored vehicles.

"Securing the constructive cooperation of the Malian authorities will be essential to facilitate the process," said a spokesperson for UN peacekeeping operations.

As a former French Colony, Mali expelled French forces last year following nine years of unpopular war which had left Mali one of the poorest countries in the world.

As many as 2.5 million refugees have been created, thousands of civilians were killed and the politicians who initially colluded with Paris, widely accused of corruption, were ousted by popular anti-French protests in 2020.

Many of France's former colonies gained independence in the 1950s, but since 1960 France has had more than 50 military interventions in Africa.

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Israel concerned by Hezbollah's growing air defense power: Report

Iran Press TV

Saturday, 01 July 2023 8:06 AM

The Israeli military has expressed concerns about the growing air defense capabilities of Lebanon's resistance movement Hezbollah in countering the regime's aerial aggression on Lebanese soil.

The Hebrew-language Maariv daily newspaper reported on Friday that the Israeli military was following with concern "a major change in the concept of air defense by Hezbollah in Lebanon."

The paper said what worried the regime was Hezbollah's move to have doubled the amount of air defense systems in its possession over the past five years "in an attempt to restrict the freedom of action of the Israeli air force in Lebanon."

"The improvement of these capabilities of Hezbollah continues persistently, and this is manifested, according to Israeli estimates, in the availability of these systems for rapid use and pursuant to Nasrallah's decision," the Hebrew-language daily said, referring to Hezbollah chief Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah.

The Israeli military is "following the alarming trend, which is reflected both in the quantities and in the improvement of the capacity and in the change of the strategy."

The newspaper also said the Israeli security service believes an Israeli drone attack in August 2019 on a facility at the heart of the southern suburbs of Beirut, the stronghold of Hezbollah, was a turning point in Hezbollah's strategy of starting to shoot down Israeli drones, as promised by Nasrallah at the time.

"In recent years, Israel has damaged these capabilities many times and caused heavy damage, but the trend of improvement in the scope and quality of the weapons systems shows the stubbornness and persistence of ... Hezbollah in building its military capabilities."

Last Monday, fighters from the Lebanese resistance movement intercepted and shot down an Israeli drone that was hovering over the southern part of Lebanon in violation of the Arab country's sovereignty.

In September 2021, Hezbollah said it had separately intercepted and struck an Israeli unmanned aerial vehicle as it crossed into Lebanon's airspace over Maryamin Valley on the outskirts of the southern town of Yater.

Lebanon's government, Hezbollah, and the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) have repeatedly condemned Israel's overflights, saying they are in clear violation of UN Security Council Resolution 1701 and the Arab country's sovereignty.

Marking the 40th anniversary of the foundation of Hezbollah last year, Nasrallah warned that the resistance movement's precision missiles can hit any Israeli target at sea or on land.

Hezbollah fought off two Israeli wars against Lebanon in 2000 and 2006, forcing a humiliating retreat upon the Tel Aviv regime's military in both cases.

The resistance movement has vowed to resolutely defend Lebanon in case of any other Israeli-imposed warfare.

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Bosnia High Representative Annuls Anti-Dayton Laws Passed By Serb Entity's Assembly

By RFE/RL's Balkan Service July 01, 2023

SARAJEVO -- Christian Schmidt, the international community's high representative for Bosnia-Herzegovina, on July 1 annulled laws adopted by the Bosnian Serb entity's National Assembly that his office had declared illegal, unacceptable, and detrimental to the Balkan nation's unity.

Christian Schmidt also amended Bosnia's Criminal Code to declare that any illegal actions that undermine the country's constitutional order will be treated as criminal offenses.

Under the 1995 Dayton accords, Schmidt has the power to impose laws as the final interpreter of the state constitution, though his decisions can be reviewed and questioned by the Constitutional Court of Bosnia, if the Office of the High Representative (OHR) approves.

The Dayton accords, which ended the 1992-95 Bosnian War, established an administrative system under which the Bosnian state remains partitioned between Republika Srpska (RS) and the Muslim Bosniak-Croat Federation, connected by a weak central government.

Ethnic Serbs of Republika Srpska have for years resisted Bosnia's central authorities, with the entity's assembly voting on June 27 to suspend recognition of any decisions by Bosnia's multi-ethnic Constitutional Court.

On June 1, the assembly adopted changes in the law that imply that decisions by the High Representative for Bosnia-Herzegovina would no longer be recognized.

The moves were seen as part of the secessionist efforts of certain Republika Srpska officials.

Some Serb leaders in Republika Srpska say they do not recognize Schmidt -- a German diplomat who was appointed in 2021 as the high representative -- because the UN Security Council did not endorse his nomination. China and Russia disputed his appointment because he was not confirmed by the Council, although other nations said it was not required.

Schmidt, in his decision, said that "entity assemblies do not have the authority to derogate from the provisions of Bosnia-Herzegovina, and they do not have the right to derogate from the jurisdiction of key Dayton institutions."

Schmidt said he had ruled that the Republika Srpska assembly's "law on the nonimplementation of decisions of the Constitutional Court of Bosnia-Herzegovina in the territory of RS will not come into force. "

Schmidt stressed that those who attempt to overthrow the constitutional order must be prosecuted.

"They will bear the consequences for their actions -- all options are on the table," he said.

The U.S. Embassy in Sarajevo said it "strongly welcomed" Schmidt's decisions on the RS entity's "unconstitutional," "anti-Dayton laws."

The British Embassy also said it backed Schmidt's actions and expressed the joint support of the so-called Quint nations in Bosnia -- the United States, Britain, Germany, France, and Italy.

The Serb member of the tripartite Bosnian presidency, Zeljka Cvijanovic, said that the RS would not recognize Schmidt's latest rulings, claiming they "hinder the sovereign decision-making of institutions at all levels of government."

The assembly's June 27 vote on constitutional law was another in a series of steps orchestrated by Milorad Dodik, the president of the Republika Srpska entity -- and the pro-Russia leader of the Serbs in Bosnia -- and his Serb allies to reject the power-sharing structures established for Bosnia under the Dayton accords.

Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/bosnia-schmidt- annuls-serb-anti-dayton-laws/32485153.html

Copyright (c) 2023. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036.

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Russo-Ukraine War - 01 July 2023 - Day 493

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 31

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 since around 23 June 2023, Ukrainian forces have almost certainly restarted deploying personnel to the east bank of the Dnipro River in Kherson Oblast, near the ruined Antonovskiy Bridge.

Fighting intensified on the east bank from 27 June 2023. The defending Russian force includes elements of Russia's 7th Guards Air Assault Division, part of the Dnipro Group of Forces (DGF).

In recent weeks, Russia has highly likely reallocated elements of DGF defending the bank of the Dnipro to reinforce the Zaporizhzhia sector. Combat around the bridge head is almost certainly complicated by the flooding, destruction and residual mud from the collapse of the Kakhovka Dam on 06 June 2023.

The General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reported that during the day July 1, Russians carried out 22x airstrikes, launched about 60x MLRS attacks on Ukrainian cities and Defense Forces.

The threat of missile and air strikes across Ukraine remains high.

Russia is concentrating its main efforts on the Lyman, Bakhmut and Mar'inka axes - more than 30x combat clashes took place during the day.

Volyn' and Polissya axes: no significant changes detected. There are no signs of the formation of offensive groupings.

Sivershchyna and Slobozhanshchyna axes: the Russian forces carried out an airstrike in the Veterinary Oblast of the Kharkiv Oblast. They shelled with mortars and artillery more than 15x settlements, including Karpovichi, Chernihiv Oblast; Myropyllya, Ryasne, Sumy Oblast; Udy, Pylna, Vovchans'k, Budarky, Chuhunivka, Odradne, Kam'ianka of the Kharkiv Oblast.

Kup'yans'k axis: Russian forces launched airstrikes at Kislivka and Kotlyarivka of the Kharkiv Oblast. Topoli, Novomlyns'k, Figolivka, Masyutivka and Kislivka of the Kharkiv Oblast were shelled by artillery and mortars.

Lyman axis: the Russian forces carried out unsuccessful offensives near the Nevsky and Dibrova areas of the Luhansk Oblast. They carried out airstrikes at Belogorivka in the Luhansk Oblast and Vyimka and Spirnyi in the Donetsk Oblast. More than 10x settlements, including Nevs'ke, Bilogorivka of Luhansk Oblast and Torske, Dibrova, Verkhn'yokam'ians'ke, Rozdolivka, Berestovka - Donetsk Oblast, were shelled by artillery.

Bakhmut axis: Russian forces carried out unsuccessful offensive opertaions near Bohdanivka, Donetsk Oblast. Carried out airstrikes near Bila Hora, Toretsk and New York. About 15x settlements, including Vasyukivka, Markove, Bogdanivka, Chasiv Yar, Ivanivs'ke, Oleksandro-Shultyne, Bila Hora, Diliivka, and Pivdenne of the Donetsk Oblast, were shelled by artillery.

Avdiivka axis: the Russian occupiers launched an air strike at the Avdiivka area. More than 10x settlements were shelled by artillery such as Novokalynove, Berdychi, Avdiivka, Pervomayske and Nevels'ke of the Donetsk Oblast.

Mar'inka axis: Ukrainian defenders repelled all Russian attacks in the vicinities of Mar'inka. Russian forces shelled the settlements of Hostre, Georgiyivka, Mar'inka, Pobeda of the Donetsk Oblast.

Shakhtars'k axis: Russian forces launched an airstrike at Makarivka area of the Donetsk Oblast and shelled about 15x different settlements. Among them are Paraskoviivka, Novomykhailivka, Zolota Niva, Storozheve, Blagodatne, Makarivka, Vilne Pole and Zelene Pole of the Donetsk Oblast.

Zaporizhzhia and Kherson axes: Russian forces are on the defensive, and concentrate their main efforts on preventing the advance of Ukrainian troops. They shelled more than 30x settlements, including Novodarivka, Levadne, Olhivs'ke, Hulyaipole, Biloghirya of the Zaporizhzhia Oblast; Zolota Balka, Mykhailivka, Havrylivka, Kachkarivka, Kozats'ke, Ivanivka, Antonivka, Zelenivka of the Kherson Oblast and Kherson.

The Russian occupiers suffer significant losses every day, which they are trying to hide, while continuing to apply the traditional russian practice of depriving the families of the dead of benefits and compensation advertised by Russian propaganda. Mobile crematoria are actively used for this purpose. In particular, it is known that one of these crematoria is currently operating 24/7 on the territory of the Berdyansk port. Currently, about 50x bodies of dead Russian servicemen, who were recently transported from the frontlines to the local morgue, are subject to cremation. The cremation of dead Russian soldiers is carried out without their identification and registration.

Ukrainian Air Force carried out 10x strikes on Russian manpower concentrations, 2x on anti-aircraft missile systems and 1x on the Russian forces' control point.

Ukrainian missile and artillery units hit the control post, Russian manpower, weapons and military equipment concentrations, an ammunition depot, 2x artillery units at firing positions, an anti-air system, an electronic warfare station and another important object of the Russian occupiers.

The Ministry of Defense of the Russian Federation reported that the Russian Armed Forces have carried out a high-precision sea- and ground-launched attack against the command and control posts of the Donetsk task force.

All the assigned targets have been engaged. The goal of the strike has been achieved.

The Ukrainian Armed Forces have continued their attempts to conduct offensive operations in Donetsk, Krasny Liman, and South Donetsk directions during the previous 24 hours.

In Donetsk direction, the Yug Group of Forces in defence has successfully repelled 15 enemy attacks close to Belogorovka, Artyomovsk, Pervomayskoye, Latochkino, Vodyanoye, and Veseloye (Donetsk People's Republic) during the past 24 hours.

In the past 24 hours, the enemy has lost up over 265 Ukrainian troops, one tank, two infantry fighting vehicles, eight motor vehicles, two Msta-B howitzers, and D-20 gun.

An ammunition depot of the AFU 54th Mechanised Brigade has been hit close to Vyemka (Donetsk People's Republic).

In Krasny Liman direction, the Tsentr Group of Forces' units, aviation, artillery, and heavy flamethrower systems inflicted losses on the units of AFU 21st, 42nd, and 67th Mechanised Brigades close to Nevskoye, Kremennaya, and Chervonaya Dibrova (Lugansk People's Republic).

One sabotage and reconnaissance group of the Armed Forces of Ukraine has been disabled close to Torskoye (Donetsk People's Republic).

Up to 90 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 South Donetsk, artillery and heavy flamethrower systems of the Vostok Group of Forces have repelled two enemy attacks in the area of Staromayorskoye (Donetsk People's Republic).

In addition, actions of two sabotage and reconnaissance groups of the Armed Forces of Ukraine have been thwarted near Novodarovka and Rabotino (Zaporozhye region).

In Zaporozhye direction, the dedicated and coordinated actions of the Russian troops reflected an AFU attack in the areas of Pyatikhatki (Zaporozhye region). Moreover, a unit of the 106th Territorial Defence Brigade was hit close to Lugovskoye (Zaporozhye region).

?? Up to 140 Ukrainian troops, three armoured fighting vehicles, seven motor vehicles, two D-20 howitzers, and one Msta-b howitzer were eliminated in these directions during the day.

In Kupyansk direction, Operational-Tactical and Army aviation and artillery of the Zapad Group of Forces have engaged the enemy manpower and hardware close to Timkovka, Topoli, and Berestovoye (Kharkov region).

One sabotage and reconnaissance group of the Armed Forces of Ukraine has been disabled close to Novosyolovskoye (Lugansk People's Republic).

The enemy's losses amounted to more than 75 Ukrainian troops, three motor vehicles, as well as a D-30 howitzer.

In Kherson direction, up to 30 Ukrainian troops, four motor vehicles, and one U.S.-made M777 artillery system have been neutralised over the past 24 hours.

In addition, a sabotage group of the Ukrainian Armed Forces was neutralised in an attempt to land in two motorboats on Antonovsky Island.

Operational-Tactical and Army aviation, Missile Troops and Artillery of the Russian Group of Forces have engaged 85 AFU artillery units at their fire positions, manpower, and military hardware in 102 areas during the day.

A facility storing fuel and military hardware for Zaporozhye Ukrainian force grouping was destroyed near Zaporozhye.

Russia's air defence forces intercepted two Storm Shadow long-range cruise missiles and five HIMARS projectiles during the past 24 hours.

Moreover, 12 Ukrainian unmanned aerial vehicles were obliterated in the areas of Artyomovsk, Soledar, Spornoye, and Volodino (Donetsk People's Republic), Berdyansk and Balochki (Zaporozhye region).

In total, 444 airplanes and 240 helicopters, 4,845 unmanned aerial vehicles, 426 air defence missile systems, 10,430 tanks and other armoured fighting vehicles, 1,134 combat vehicles equipped with MLRS, 5,291 field artillery cannons and mortars, as well as 11,324 units of special military equipment have been destroyed during the special military operation.

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German Court Categorizes Islamic Center as 'Extremist Islamic Organization'

By VOA Persian Service July 01, 2023

Germany's Federal Administrative Court has upheld a determination that activities conducted by the Islamic Center in the city of Hamburg, known as the Blue Mosque, are those of an "extremist Islamic organization."

Acting on an objection and complaint lodged by the Islamic Center against action by the Federal Office for the Protection of the Constitution of Germany, the Administrative Court of Hamburg on Friday upheld the categorization of the center's activities as "Islamic extremism."

In both 2018 and 2019, the Federal Office for the Protection of the Constitution identified activities of the Blue Mosque as falling under the classification of "extremist Islamist organizations."

After conducting two oral hearings in April and May of this year, the Administrative Court of Hamburg issued its written verdict addressing the complaint filed by the Islamic Center. The court's ruling acknowledges a partial acceptance of the plaintiffs' complaint, leading to the prohibition of publishing specific sections of the report by the Federal Office for the Protection of the Constitution.

However, the Islamic Center's challenge regarding the categorization of the "Blue Mosque" as an "extremist Islamic organization" was unsuccessful, as the court deemed that aspect legally valid and unobjectionable.

As per the report released by the Federal Office for the Protection of the Constitution of Germany, the "Blue Mosque" supporting association has been classified as an extremist Islamic organization that actively "pursues anti-constitutional objectives."

The complete text of the verdict has yet to be made public and all parties involved in the case still can file an appeal.

In a recent letter addressed to Nancy Faeser, the minister of the Interior of Germany, the Secular Islamic Association has called for the immediate cessation of cooperation with the Central Council of Muslims.

The Secular Islamic Association has cited the Islamic Center of Hamburg membership, classified as an "extremist center" by the Federal Office for the Protection of the Constitution, as the reason behind its request for the immediate termination of cooperation with the Central Council of Muslims.

The letter said the Islamic Center of Hamburg is also engaged in disseminating anti-Semitism, promoting the ideology of the Islamic Republic of Iran, and conducting surveillance on Iranian citizens in exile.

According to the German newspaper Die Welt and the Federal Office for the Protection of the Constitution, the Islamic Center of Hamburg is recognized as a representative of an Islamic regime that contradicts the constitution's values.

The Office for the Protection of the Constitution considers the Islamic Center of Hamburg responsible for managing the Imam Ali Mosque in the Alster area, as a hub for the Iranian government in Europe. It has been under surveillance for several decades.

Last November, Hamburg's local authorities expelled Seyed Soleiman Mosavi-Far, the deputy of the Islamic Center, accusing him of close affiliations with terrorist organizations.

Among the accusations against Mosavi-Far were his support of extremist and terrorist Shia organizations and his sharing of promotional videos on Facebook for the same purpose.

German authorities alleged that in addition to his involvement and support for extremist and terrorist Shia organizations, Mosavi-Far had connections with two organizations engaged in financial assistance, which were found to have links to representatives of Hezbollah in Lebanon.

Mosavi-Far was allegedly actively involved in sharing promotional videos and photos of Hezbollah on Facebook and he paid tribute to the casualties of the organization on the platform.

Despite a court order to leave Germany, Mosavi-Far, using his children's education as a reason, remained in the country until the last moment but ultimately returned to Iran.

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Lukashenka Urges Belarusians To 'Calm Down' Over Wagner Arrivals, As Tent Camp Springs Up In Belarus

By RFE/RL's Belarus Service July 01, 2023

Belarus's internationally isolated leader Alyaksandr Lukashenka has urged Belarusians not to "worry" about the presumed arrival of Wagner mercenaries after their aborted mutiny in Russia, as satellite imagery emerged of a tent camp springing up in the east that RFE/RL's Belarus Service estimates could house around 15,000 soldiers.

Lukashenka was speaking on June 30 ahead of Independence Day on July 3, telling the country that he's run with an iron fist for three decades, "Calm down."

Wagner mercenaries had been essential to Russia's war effort up until their boss Yevgeny Prigozhin led thousands of them in an apparent mutiny and march toward Moscow, complaining of army incompetence.

Lukashenka reportedly mediated between Prigozhin and President Vladimir Putin's regime at the height of the crisis on June 24, including offering haven for Prigozhin and an untold number of his fighters.

In his speech, he said of the Wagner transfers to Belarus that "this problem has been inflated."

Prigozhin heavily recruited among hardened criminals and other prisoners to fill the Wagner ranks.

"These are the most prepared people," Lukashenka said. "They say, 'There are prisoners.' Listen, all the soldiers who were convicted [of crimes] there [in Russia], they have already died, unfortunately. And one more nuance that they don't want to explain: Convicts were released from prisons in Russia only for the Russian front. Not a single person [from among the inmates recruited to fight in Ukraine] goes abroad."

Details of the Kremlin's deal with Minsk are unclear, but Prigozhin was thought to have traveled there on a private jet.

RFE/RL's Belarusian Service has obtained satellite images that show the construction of what looks like a new military field camp near the village of Tsel, in the Asipouitsky district of the Mahilyow region of eastern Belarus, less than 100 kilometers from the Russian border.

It is larger than most of the other known field camps in Belarus.

Belarusian officials have not disclosed its intended purpose.

The tent site is more than 100 kilometers north of the border with Ukraine.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy on June 30 said after consulting with security and intelligence officials that he had ordered the bolstering of defenses in Ukraine's northern military sector, which abuts Belarus.

Local residents said repair and construction work at Tsel began in June.

But as late as June 17, according to satellite imagery provided by Planet.com and published by RFE/RL's Belarusian Service, there were no traces of any future deployment there. No camp is visible in the satellite photo from June 24.

But images taken on June 27 show field tents and excavation pits, new facilities, and other signs of construction.

RFE/RL's Belarusian Service counted at least 303 tents that weren't at the site on June 24.

Dozens of rectangular objects that appear to be field tents for housing are visible, including on platforms next to older buildings.

There is no weaponry or other military equipment visible in the photos.

Since the start of the full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, Lukashenka has allowed Russia's military to stage operations from Belarusian territory and recently permitted Russian tactical nuclear missiles to be stationed there.

On June 30, he said he was certain Russian tactical nuclear weapons deployed in his country would never be used. After saying he was" more and more convinced that they must be stationed" in Belarus, Lukashenka added, "I'm certain that we will never have to use them while they are here. And no enemy will ever set foot on our land."

Lukashenka increased his reliance on Putin and his international isolation when he unleashed a crackdown following a flawed presidential election in 2020 in which he asserted a victory to give him a sixth presidential term.

Thousands of Belarusians were detained and the opposition's leaders forced into exile or arrested alongside other strictures on the press, speech, and assembly.

With reporting by Reuters

Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/belarus-lukashenka- wagner-troops-calm-down-prigozhin/32484900.html

Copyright (c) 2023. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036.

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News / National

by Staff reporter

South Africa's influential Zulu King Misuzulu Sinqobile kaZwelithini is not in a life threatening condition despite poisoning fears.He only underwent minor check-ups after a senior trusted induna Douglas Xaba suffered a sudden and mysterious death, the Zulu Royal House says."His Majesty wishes to once again reassure the nation that he remains in perfect health and is not currently admitted at any hospital," the Zulu Royal House said in a statement today.This comes after Zulu Kingdom traditional Prime Minister Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi issued a statement late yesterday evening saying King Misuzulu may have been poisoned after Xaba's death.Buthelezi, a nephew and advisor of the Zulu royal family, said he received news from Prince Vumile, the brother to King Mswati III, that King Misuzulu had been taken to hospital.Misuzulu's late mother Queen Shiyiwe Mantfombi Dlamini was from the Eswatini Royal Family.His father King Goodwill Zwelithini, a long-serving Zulu monarch, died in 2021.The King said he was shocked by Xaba's death.Misuzulu ascended to power amid bitter succession wrangling with his brother Prince Simakade Zulu, the first-born son of Zwelithini KaBhekuzulu.Zulu kings share the same lineage with legendary 19th Century Zulu King Shaka.A number of the Misuzuku's confidants were assassinated last year, including a member of the Usuthu Traditional Council Dr Dumisani Blasius Khumalo.He was shot dead shortly after attending the reed dance in Nongoma, KwaZulu-Natal. Prince Mbongiseni Muntukaphiwana Zulu, a close ally of the King, was also assassinated.He was similarly shot dead, also in Nongoma, in November last year, while his security guard was badly wounded.
Lukashenko Confident Nuclear Weapons Stationed in Belarus Will Never Be Used

Sputnik News

20230701

MOSCOW (Sputnik) - Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko expressed confidence on Friday that the tactical nuclear weapons stationed in Belarus would never be used, adding that they must nevertheless remain in the country.

"People are talking today about the nuclear weapons that have been transferred to Belarus. There's no need to criticize anyone, I've talked about it before. It was my strongest initiative. And the longer we live, the more confident we are that they must be placed here, in Belarus, in a safe place," Lukashenko was quoted as saying by the state-run Belta news agency.

"I'm sure that as long as they are here, we will never have to use them, and no enemy soldier will ever set foot on our land."

The president added he has always believed that one should do the opposite of what the enemies want. He noted the Belarusian opposition had intended to shut down the Astravets Nuclear Power Plant after taking power.

"And why did they say that? Because they were instructed [to do so] by them [the Western countries], first of all by our Polish and Lithuanian neighbors. And what are they [Western countries] saying now? Lithuania is planning to build a new nuclear power plant to replace the one that was destroyed. Poland wants to build two or three," Lukashenko was quoted as saying by the outlet.

"So why did they tell our fools: don't build, you have to destroy? Well, nobody likes competition. The state that does not use advanced, high-end, breakthrough technologies today is a decaying, dying state."

Today, the Belarusian opposition says the same thing about nuclear weapons, Lukashenko added.

Russian President Vladimir Putin said in mid-June that Moscow had transferred the first part of the nuclear warheads to Belarus and would complete the task of moving tactical nuclear weapons by the end of the year.

Putin said the deployment was an element of deterrence and a signal to those thinking of inflicting a strategic defeat on Russia.

A Sputnik

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Brazil Bans Bolsonaro From Elections Until 2030

Sputnik News

20230701

A landmark ruling in Brazil raises significant uncertainty about former President Jair Bolsonaro's political path ahead.

Brazil's highest electoral court has made a decision to bar former President Jair Bolsonaro from seeking re-election until 2030, accusing the politician of misuse of power and spreading misinformation during the country's last elections.

The ruling is primarily based on the allegation that Bolsonaro used government communication channels, state television, and the presidential palace to foster doubt in Brazil's electronic voting system. The judges, in their majority ruling, emphasized the solid evidence supporting a meeting on July 18, 2022, during which Bolsonaro propagated claims of election rigging.

According to political experts, this decision is likely to significantly diminish Bolsonaro's chances of returning to the presidency. While he may attempt to navigate legal challenges and maintain political influence, the prospect of regaining the presidency seems doubtful. Furthermore, the ruling also prohibits his participation in the 2024 and 2028 municipal elections and disqualifies him from running in the 2026 general elections.

Justices Carmen Lucia and Alexandre de Moraes have expressed strong criticism of Bolsonaro's rhetoric. De Moraes stated that the judgment serves as a response to the rise of populism encouraged by divisive rhetoric that promotes misleading information.

Bolsonaro currently faces a number of legal battles that could have grave implications if he is convicted. The judgment marks a precedent in Brazilian history where a former president has been suspended for election violations rather than criminal offenses, in accordance with the country's law that prohibits candidates with criminal sentences from running for office.

The decision made by the court has sparked diverse reactions from the public. Some view the ruling as a safeguard for Brazilian democracy, while others question the underlying political motivations.

Bolsonaro's online support base has shown renewed enthusiasm, drawing comparisons between his situation and that of former US President Donald Trump. However, political analysts argue that Bolsonaro's influence has waned due to his absence during the initial months of President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva's term.

A Sputnik

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UN deputy chief praises China's investment in tackling climate change, forging 'new development pathway'

30 June 2023 - The Deputy Secretary-General addressed students at China's Peking University on Friday, describing their diligence and energy as critical to helping tackle the world's challenges through multilateral action.

"The challenges are many and they are serious", Amina Mohammed said, highlighting the plight of the planet.

"Almost all our indicators on the climate and ecological crises are pointing in the wrong direction."

She praised China's role in being an innovator and believer in the power of multilateralism to overcome challenges through collection action, pointing out that over half of the world's new renewables are projected to be in China, both this year and next.

"This gives you a flavour of just how critical China is to tackling climate change and protecting nature".

China 'decoupling growth from emissions'

As one of the world's largest economies and a major emitter of greenhouse gases as well as a major investor in renewables, she said China had an opportunity "to set the example of a new development pathway that decouples growth from emissions. One that ensures a renewable energy and climate-resilient future we strive for that is equitable, just and balanced."

She pointed to the investments made by China in tackling climate change, singling out its role in the Presidency of COP15, where countries agreed the Kunming Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework last December.

"This commits to reverse biodiversity loss and end our war on nature", said Ms. Mohammed.

Just last week, countries formally adopted a new UN treaty to protect marine biodiversity and ecological systems and the International Energy Agency reports investment in solar is set to overtake global investment in oil production for the first time, she added.

China driving investment

"This is a milestone to be celebrated. And China's enormous investments have played an important part", she said.

She said amid the overlapping climate crises the was also hope.

"Averting the worst of climate change remains possible. This is the clear message from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), the United Nations body that assesses the climate science."

She reminded that the Secretary-General has called on the largest 20 economies, including China, to work together to accelerate climate action.

'Sustainable, equitable' partnerships

She said China now can set a further example beyond the renewables sector, "one of partnership. This shows how we can move away from predatory and exploitative practices that have often characterized the extractives industry, and move towards partnerships that will ensure sustainable, equitable and resilient supply chains."

She pointed to the upcoming Climate Action Summit in Nairobi convened by Africa, and for Africa, saying "it would be an ideal place to build partnerships".

But to respond to the scale of the challenges we face, we need China, and all countries to do more, said the deputy UN chief, "and young people must play a vital role."

"You can use your voice and influence to make clear how important action on climate and nature are to you. To engage with the Government and businesses at all levels to go further and to cooperate", she added.

"I urge you to apply the dedication and imagination that has led to you to this hall today, to help to build a cleaner, safer fairer world for us all."

AI and the SDGs

Peking University was the last stop of Ms. Mohammed's visit to China, which began this past Sunday in in Shanghai.

While there she participated in roundtables with business leaders including some international chambers of commerce to highlight the importance of sustainability, technology, innovation, and Artificial Intelligence to deal with the challenges of climate change as well as accelerate progress towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Ms. Mohammed also traveled to Huzhou City in Zhejiang Province and visited the UN Global Geographic Information Knowledge and Innovation Center, which seeks to strengthen data for the Goals.

UN Deputy Secretary-General Amina Mohammed visits a sand prevention and river protection shelter forest project in Kubuqi, China.

Inner Mongolia: Afforestation and sand drift prevention projects

Next up, the Deputy Secretary-General travelled to Inner Mongolia, where she met Provincial leaders and acknowledged the regional efforts on climate action and long-term investments in afforestation. It was followed by a visit to the world's first zero-carbon industrial park in Ordos.

Ms. Mohammed also undertook a visit to an afforestation project and sand drift prevention projects in Kubuqi, which also hosts China's largest single-stage solar farm. The Kubuqi region comprises around 18,600 square km of golden sand dunes that plunge south in an arc from the Yellow River. Centuries of grazing had denuded the land of all vegetation, and the region's 740,000 people were wallowing in isolated poverty.

A 'just transition' amid climate crisis

Back in Beijing yesterday, the Deputy Secretary-General held meetings with Government officials, which included the Director of the Office of the Central Foreign Affairs Commission, the Executive Vice Foreign Minister, the Minister of Environment, and China's Special Envoy for Climate Change.

She outlined the benefits of financing and aligning China's development objectives with the SDGs. Ms. Mohammed also expressed the urgent need for all leaders to embrace a just transition amid the climate crisis.

She further expressed the importance of an ambitious and action-oriented dialogue among leaders at the UN General Assembly in September at this crucial midpoint of the 2030 Agenda and the Paris climate accord.

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China's Type 075 amphibious assault ship spotted breaking island chain from straits south of Japan for first time

Global Times

By Liu Xuanzun Published: Jul 01, 2023 06:21 PM

A Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) Navy flotilla led by a Type 075 amphibious assault ship was recently spotted breaking the first island chain from straits south of Japan, marking the first time that this type of large warship was reported operating in vicinity of the island country.

Likely a part of an untargeted routine exercise that demonstrates and further hones the vessels' combat readiness, the voyage could also serve to give those with a guilty conscience a warning, including "Taiwan independence" secessionists and external interference forces, analysts said on Saturday.

Japan's Maritime Self-Defense Force spotted the PLA Navy flotilla consisting of the Type 075 amphibious assault ship Guangxi and Type 052D destroyer Baotou when the vessels sailed from the East China Sea through the Osumi Strait into the West Pacific waters south of Japan from Thursday to Friday, while the Type 054A frigate Anyang and the Type 903A comprehensive replenishment ship Chaohu sailed from the East China Sea through the sea area between Amami Oshima and Yokoate-jima into the same West Pacific region, Japan's Defense Ministry Joint Staff confirmed in a press release on Friday.

Japan deployed reconnaissance and fighter aircraft as well as a missile boat on alert missions in attempts to monitor Chinese activities, the Japanese press release said.

This is apparently the first time that a Type 075 amphibious assault ship has crossed Japan's surrounding straits into the West Pacific for training, and also the first time that the Guangxi, the second hull of the Type 075, has broken the first island chain for exercise after the Hainan, the first hull of Type 075, went out of the island chain from the South China Sea earlier this year.

The first long-distance sea voyage indicated that the Guangxi has reached full operational capability, observers said.

Zhang Xuefeng, a Chinese military expert, told the Global Times that combat environments are very different in open seas when compared with coastal waters, so far sea drills can enable the sailors to better understand maritime environments, including different ocean currents, sea temperatures and undersea terrain.

It can also hone the sailors' capabilities in independently dealing with close-in disturbance from foreign aircraft and vessels, Zhang said.

The third Type 075, the Anhui, is also expected to hold similar exercises in the near future, analysts said.

Characterized by strong multidimensional amphibious landing capabilities and capable of carrying dozens of helicopters in addition to landing craft and amphibious armored vehicles, the Type 075 is widely seen by analysts to have a significant role to play in resolving the Taiwan question.

It would be interesting to see where the flotilla will go next, but the voyage is likely a scheduled regular far sea exercise that aims to enhance the vessels' capabilities and dose not aim at any third party, another Chinese military expert who requested anonymity told the Global Times on Saturday.

But those with a guilty conscience, including "Taiwan independence" secessionists and external interference forces that attempt to suppress China's rightful development, could also see this as a warning, the expert said.

The US, Japan and the Philippines recently held a trilateral security meeting in which they discussed "security challenges" in the East China Sea and South China Sea, and planned to hold regular joint exercises in the South China Sea, according to reports.

In response, Senior Colonel Zhang Xiaogang, a spokesperson at China's Ministry of National Defense, said in a regular press conference on Thursday that some countries outside the region are stirring up trouble for their own selfish interests, and countries within the region should be highly vigilant against this.

On the Taiwan question, Zhang stressed that the PLA has the capability and the confidence to safeguard national sovereignty and territorial integrity, and resolutely crush "Taiwan independence" secessionist and foreign interference schemes.

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Xi calls for more achievements in Party's theoretical innovation as CPC celebrates 102nd founding anniversary

Global Times

By Yang Sheng Published: Jul 01, 2023 01:30 PM

Xi Jinping, general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, called for more achievements in the Party's theoretical innovation while presiding over a group study session of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee on Friday, a day ahead of CPC's 102nd founding anniversary, which falls on Saturday.

Xi said the understanding of the Party's theoretical innovation must be continuously deepened. It is the solemn historical responsibility of today's Chinese Communists to open new frontiers in adapting Marxism to the Chinese context and the needs of the times, Xi said.

Chinese analysts said the remarks show that the CPC understands that in the next stage of its journey toward the goal of the Chinese modernization and the great rejuvenation of Chinese nation, there is no precedent from which the Party can learn, meaning the CPC needs to forge its path and renew or update its theories through its own innovation and practices.

An article by Xi, also Chinese president and chairman of the Central Military Commission, has been published on Saturday in this year's 13th issue of the Qiushi Journal, a flagship magazine of the CPC Central Committee. In the article, the general secretary called on young officials to grow into people capable of shouldering the mission of the times.

The article urges young officials to become people who remain loyal and worthy of the trust of the Party and the people.

The healthy growth of young officials has a bearing on the cause of the Party and the people, which must be carried forward by future generations, the article noted, urging young officials to be loyal to the Party and dedicated to the cause of the Party and the people.

The article stresses the importance of firming up the faith in Marxism and striving for the great ideal of communism and the common ideal of socialism with Chinese characteristics. The article warns young officials to guard against corruption and moral decline, noting that corruption is the most serious problem facing the Party, easily leading to subversion of political power.

Across the nation, there are many young officials and Party members who were born after 1985 and in 1990s who have been appointed to crucial positions at both the grass-root level and key sectors, and these young Party members have been well-educated and are able to explore and innovate with new thoughts and ideas, experts noted.

Guided by a sense of mission and giving them trusts to let them have space to practice and innovate are the key for the Party to receive new strengths and impetus from the new generations, including those who born in 1980s, 1990s, and even 2000s, analysts added.

Shi Jiacheng, a graduate student at Shanghai Jiaotong University who became a probationary Party member in March this year, told the Global Times that young Party members in this new era share at least one thing in common with their predecessors - "we all fight for the rejuvenation of the Chinese nation and the realization of Communism."

Shi also said that in the past century, older generations of the CPC members are fighting for the survival of the Party, the establishment of the People's Republic of China, and the development of the country.

"Over the past century, China has played a role of 'chasing' other developed countries, but in next two to three decades, when the people of my generation play key and leading role of the country, China may become one of the leading countries in the world, so we must explore a more reasonable and fairer global governance system, and to take responsibility to guide and contribute to the joint development of mankind. This is an unshakable duty and obligation," Shi noted.

The CPC saw the number of its members grow to 98.041 million as of the end of 2022, the Organization Department of the CPC Central Committee announced on Friday.

The number of CPC members increased by 1.4 percent from 2021, according to figures released by the department ahead of the 102nd founding anniversary of the CPC, the world's largest Marxist governing party.

Yang Xuedong, a professor of political science at Tsinghua University, told the Global Times that the CPC is now a large party with significant number of Party members, and that it needs to keep playing a leadership role and act as a vanguard to lead China's 1.4 billion people in overcoming unprecedented challenges amid a volatile global landscape. The Party must also realize great historic goals over the coming decades. All of these require the Party to innovate and explore, and find new strengths from new upcoming generations.

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HK celebrates return to motherland, eyes recovery with growth target between 3.5% to 5.5%

Global Times

By Chen Qingqing Published: Jul 01, 2023 03:19 PM Updated: Jul 01, 2023 06:28 PM

Hong Kong celebrated the 26th anniversary of the city's return to the motherland on Saturday, as the city emerges from the shadow of the COVID-19 pandemic and political turmoil, with local government forecasting economic growth likely to reach 3.5 to 5.5 percent in 2023.

At 8 am on Saturday, the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) government held a flag-raising ceremony at Golden Bauhinia Square, with the national anthem being sung by all present. The HKSAR government Chief Executive John Lee, and former CE Carrie Lam as well as Leung Chun-ying and Donald Tsang Yam-kuen attended the flag-raising ceremony, in addition to officials from key central government institutions in Hong Kong.

Hong Kong disciplinary forces performed Chinese-style foot drills at the ceremony. Several helicopters from the Flying Service hung the national and regional flags, flying over Victoria Harbor. Fire boats and marine police vessels paid tribute by spraying water opposite the Convention and Exhibition Center.

During his speech at the reception to celebrate the 26th anniversary of Hong Kong's return to the motherland following the flag-raising ceremony, Lee said that the government is leading Hong Kong out of the shadow of the pandemic and is moving at full speed on a path to normalization.

"Hong Kong has overcome economic contraction, with economic growth of 2.7 percent in the first quarter of this year, reversing four consecutive quarters of decline. The number of visitors to Hong Kong in the first five months has already exceeded 10 million, and the tourism and consumption sectors are driving the normalization of Hong Kong's economy," Lee said.

During his speech, Lee also mentioned the key points referenced by Chinese President Xi Jinping when he visited Hong Kong at the occasion of the 25th anniversary of the city's return to the motherland. Xi stressed that "one country, two systems" has been tested repeatedly in practice, and there is no reason for us to change such a good policy, and we must adhere to it in the long run.

Although Hong Kong's imports and exports are still relatively weak, and there are still uncertainties in the external environment, the country's 14th Five-Year Plan (2021-2025), the Greater Bay Area development, and the Belt and Road Initiative all provide Hong Kong with endless opportunities. Lee expects that this year's economic growth will return to positive territory, estimated to be around 3.5 to 5.5 percent.

As part of the HKSAR government's major policies, the city has stepped up efforts in attracting more talent from the mainland and the world over the past year.

Lee anticipated that that the annual goal of attracting 35,000 talents will be met. The investment promotion department has assisted over 180 domestic and overseas companies in establishing or expanding their businesses in Hong Kong over the first five months of this year, representing a 30 percent increase compared to the same period last year.

July 1, 2023 is also the date from which vehicles with HKSAR license plates can now enter the mainland. The first vehicle entered Zhuhai, South China's Guangdong Province at 00:09 am. To date over 16,400 Hong Kong residents have filed an application for a permit.

The measure will also facilitate the business cooperation and people-to-people exchanges between Hong Kong and mainland, Lee said, noting that he has full confidence in the city's future.

On July 1, 1997, Hong Kong smoothly transitioned and successfully returned, washing away the century-long humiliation of the Chinese nation, Chan Yung, vice chairman of the Democratic Alliance for the Betterment and Progress of Hong Kong, told the Global Times on Saturday.

"Looking back at the overall development over the past 26 years, although there have been many storms and challenges, under the care and support of the central government, the nation, and all the people, these have been successfully resolved and returned to the right track," Chan said, noting that we have quickly stepped into a new chapter from governance to prosperity.

Although the social order and stability have been restored in Hong Kong, Lee said we need to be prepared for possible risks.

"It's clear that some countries are misjudging China's peaceful development and deliberately suppressing it, and there are also forces within Hong Kong that pose a threat with their 'soft resistance.' Therefore, we must remain vigilant," he said, calling on citizens to proactively safeguard national security.

Recently, a draft law on patriotic education was submitted to China's top legislature for first reading, which also set out requirements for enhancing the national identity of the people in Hong Kong, Macao and Taiwan.

Starry Lee Wai-king, a member of the Standing Committee of the NPC, said on Saturday during the celebration that she believes that Hong Kong's progress in patriotism education has been very slow, and even off-track, in the past. "Now, it is necessary to catch up. Besides schools, there should also be comprehensive exposure to the country's history, culture, and latest developments for all residents," she said.

Fred Li Wah-ming, the former member of Hong Kong Democratic Party, appeared to be the only representative from the city's opposition group to attend the ceremony, according to local media reports. Li said he hopes that more young people will participate in local district elections in the future.

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'Revival plan' a must to get North Korea to denuclearize: Expert

ROC Central News Agency

07/01/2023 05:29 PM

[Editor's Note: This is part three of a three-part series that shares the views of defectors from North Korea as the country becomes increasingly isolated. The series includes interviews with two defectors and an expert on North Korea.]

Seoul, July 1 (CNA) North Korea is essentially running a slave state to support its nuclear and ballistic weapons programs, but the only way the outside world can change that and get it to denuclearize is through a "revival plan," a South Korean expert on North Korea said.

In an interview with CNA in Seoul, Sookmyung Women's University professor Lee Min-yong said the North Korean regime was unlikely to abandon its nuclear arsenal because of its complete lack of resources to defend itself in other ways.

But that lack of resources and the regime's exploitation of its people to keep itself in power and earn foreign currency could provide an opening, Lee argued.

CNA spoke to Lee as part of its series on North Korean defectors to get more insight into the enigmatic state.

Lee has long railed against the human rights abuses there, calling it an "oppressive tyranny" in an article in the Diplomat in 2017.

Yet for all the bluster from the international community echoing Lee's view, North Korea remains a pariah state that taunts its neighbors and the world with ballistic missile tests and threats of nuclear weapons while starving its own people, and Lee felt a new strategy could help.

'Modern slaves'

Up to now, Lee said, efforts to compel North Korea to give up its nuclear program through measures such as sanctions have been stymied by the country's allies, including China and Russia.

The two powers, for example, vetoed new resolutions by the United Nations Security Council in 2022 that would have imposed new sanctions on North Korea after a spate of intercontinental ballistic missile launches.

But making progress on denuclearization may also require focusing on North Korea's exploitation of labor, which plays a key role in keeping its nuclear and ballistic missile programs, Lee said.

The country sends workers overseas every year, forcing them to make money for their country even if UN Security Council Resolution 2397, passed in late 2017, requires that all countries expatriate North Korean workers immediately, Lee said.

Some workers, however, remain in Russia and Uzbekistan and continue to contribute to North Korea's nuclear weapons programs.

"They're like 'modern slaves' who have to work over 17 hours every day and must turn in 80 percent of their income to their country," Lee said.

China has also indirectly helped protect the North Korean regime and exploited its people, Lee said.

At least 300,000 North Korea defectors have fled to China, but many are stuck there, and Beijing has refused to give them refugee status due not only to its partnership with North Korea but also to exploit these "illegal workers," Lee said.

To halt these overseas labor issues and convince the North Korean government to denuke, not only the "stick" but the "carrot" is needed, which is to convince North Korean leader Kim Jong Un that by abandoning nuclear weapons, his country's GDP per capita can rise from under US$2,000 to USD$3,000, Lee said.

The concept has already been tried.

From 2008 to 2013, when Lee Myung-bak was South Korea's president, his administration proposed a "Denuclearization, Openness, 3000 Vision" for North Korea, similar to the "audacious plan" initiated by incumbent President Yoon Suk-yeol in 2022, Lee said.

"But for North Korea, these proposals are ridiculous. They don't believe the policies could help increase GDP per capita to USD$3,000," he said.

A concrete "North Korea revival plan," however, might work in getting North Korea to agree to denuclearization, said Lee, who contended that the U.S., Japan and South Korea should lead other allies in providing North Korea with needed resources and standing by it.

If such a plan were broached, Lee said, China and Russia would have no excuse not to join.

Meanwhile, South Korea will be a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council for two years starting in 2024, which could provide another opportunity, he said.

Though resolutions might be vetoed by China and Russia, South Korea has allies among the 15 non-permanent members, which could be beneficial to the agenda-setting session, and could pressure North Korea through proposals related to food, human rights and nuclear issues, Lee said.

Waiting for collapse

There may be another approach, Lee said -- to let the North Korean regime crumble on its own.

On the outside looking in, the regime seems well entrenched, helped by what Lee argues are policies to deliberately starve the people to keep them in line.

Lee said 41 percent of North Koreans are malnourished, and while younger generations around the world are generally expected to be healthier and stronger than their parents, "it's completely the opposite in North Korea -- young people are getting weaker."

But people have been starving in North Korea since the Japanese occupation (1910-1945), and it's been part of their daily life for decades, which "erases their thoughts of fighting for food," Lee said.

The scholar believed the policy was deliberate because the food problem would not be hard to solve.

South Korean officials have estimated that North Korea has around 4.5 million tons of grain production per year, about 1.5 million tons short of the 6 million tons needed to feed its nationals.

That means the country would have to spend US$500 million to US$600 million a year to purchase food from abroad to fill the gap.

"You don't think the North Korean government has money for that?" Lee asked. "They're just afraid people would start to pursue nutrition and even have political aspirations after being given enough food."

"The North Korean government deliberately causes food crises among its nationals for political reasons," Lee said.

This is why Kim Jong Un's regime is still standing, even though the number of defectors is on the rise, he added.

However, an increase in the number of defectors also indicates North Korea may be "heading toward its demise," Lee said.

That, combined with the regime being on the decline since the reign of Kim Jung Il, the second supreme leader, and the country losing its basic capacity to function may suggest a completely hands-off policy, Lee said.

"The international community is holding back and wanting to 'wait and see' where this regime will go," Lee said. "The most conservative approach for governments worldwide is to wait for North Korea to break down by itself."

(By Ariel Liao and Evelyn Yang)

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Defence Secretary visits Myanmar; Discusses matters relating to India's security with the country's senior leadership

India - Press Information Bureau

Ministry of Defence

Posted On: 01 JUL 2023 4:35PM by PIB Delhi

Defence Secretary Shri Giridhar Aramane paid an official visit to Myanmar from June 30, 2023 to July 01, 2023. He called on Chairman, State Administrative Council Senior General Min Aung Hlaing in Nay Pyi Taw. The Defence Secretary also called on Defence Minister of Myanmar Gen (Retd.) Mya Tun Oo and held meetings with Commander-in-Chief, Myanmar Navy Admiral Moe Aung and Chief of Defence Industries Lt Gen Khan Myint Than.

The visit provided an opportunity to raise matters relating to India's security with senior leadership of Myanmar. During the meetings, the two sides discussed issues related to maintenance of tranquillity in the border areas, illegal trans-border movements and transnational crimes such as drug trafficking and smuggling. Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to ensure that their respective territories would not be allowed to be used for any activities inimical to the other.

India shares an approximately 1,700-km long border with Myanmar. Any developments in that country have a direct impact on India's bordering regions. Peace & stability in Myanmar and well-being of its people, therefore, remain of utmost importance to India.

*****

ABB/Savvy



(Release ID: 1936668)

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Damavand class destroyer will join Iran's Naval Fleet

IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency

Jul 1, 2023

Tehran, IRNA -- The Iranian Navy's Northern Fleet will receive a Damavand-class destroyer in the near future, IRNA reported.

The Damavand destroyer is an all-Iranian vessel and the second warship of the Moudge-class and an advanced type of Jamaran destroyer, which joined the Northern Fleet of the Army Navy in 2014.

The class appeared to be a development of the Alvand class. It was named Damavand after its inauguration in the Caspian Sea. In 2017, this destroyer hit the eastern breakwater of the port while entering Anzali port and had an accident, but it was rebuilt with the efforts of Iranian experts.

The ship has the ability to carry helicopters, anti-ship missiles, surface-to-air missiles, torpedoes, modern guns, and air defense guns. The vessel is also equipped with electronic warfare devices.

2050

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Iranian FM holds telephone conversation with SCO's secretary general

ISNA - Iranian Students' News Agency

Sat / 1 July 2023 / 12:08

Tehran (ISNA) - Iranian Foreign Minister, Hossein Amir-Abdollahian spoke with Zhang Ming, Secretary General of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization on the phone about the trend of cooperation between the Islamic Republic of Iran and the SCO.

They also talked about the upcoming meeting of the organization.

The top Iranian diplomat thanked the SCO's chief for his efforts and cooperation for the purpose of completing the process for the Islamic Republic of Iran's full accession to the body.

He also reiterated Iran's readiness for participation in the next meeting of the SCO that will be held online.

Referring to the extensive efforts of the Iranian government, parliament and Foreign Ministry to prepare and approve the documents related to Iran's full membership in the SCO, Amir-Abdollahian said he is confident that Iran's final accession to the organization will provide the body with a new and growing capacity.

The top Iranian diplomat also said that the official introduction of the Iranian national coordinator to the SCO's secretariat will be announced next week.

The SCO secretary general, for his part, expressed pleasure with Iran's full access to the grouping and stressed that Iran's full membership in the SCO will be officially announced in its next meeting.

Ming noted that as of July 4, Iran will enjoy full benefits of this membership that are reserved for the SCO member states.

The SCO chief further described Iran's role in promoting the objectives of the body as important, saying, "It's a great honor for me that the process of Iran's permanent membership is happening during my tenure as the secretary general of the SCO".

End Item

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China's UN envoy calls for greater humanitarian funding for Syria

Iran Press TV

Saturday, 01 July 2023 2:26 PM

China's deputy permanent representative to the United Nations has called upon concerned parties to increase support and bridge humanitarian funding gaps in Syria so that aid is reaching where it is most needed.

"At present, the huge gaps in humanitarian funding for Syria have already affected the implementation of relief operations and early recovery projects. We hope that the parties concerned will honor their commitments and further increase their funding support," Geng Shuang said at a UN Security Council briefing on Syria.

The envoy said the Syrian government has so far opened Bab al-Salam and al-Ra'ee crossings in the northwestern part of the country, taken positive measures to facilitate humanitarian access, ended the case-by-case approval procedure for cross-line assistance, and facilitated visa issuance for humanitarian workers.

"These initiatives are welcomed by the parties concerned, and China commends these efforts," Geng said.

He said the Security Council should pay closer attention to unfolding developments in Syria and implementation of Resolution 2672, which calls for both cross-line and cross-border humanitarian assistance, plan its programs more carefully, and further increase humanitarian relief to Syria and alleviate the ongoing humanitarian crisis there.

Geng underscored that cross-line operations should be the primary mode of humanitarian relief in Syria. However, the operations were interrupted for the past four months due to the obstruction by local authorities in northwest Syria.

"The Security Council must come up with practical solutions to break the barriers in cross-line delivery, improve efficiency, and increase scale to ensure greater stability and predictability of the relief work," he said.

The Chinese envy also denounced unilateral sanctions and coercive measures against Styria, stating that certain countries have been voicing concern about Syria's humanitarian situation and requesting the Council to adopt resolutions on humanitarian issues in Syria.

"At the same time, they have been willfully imposing unilateral sanctions, causing Syria's economic and humanitarian plight to worsen," Geng said.

"Such self-contradictory and hypocritical behavior is no different from pretending to be giving CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) to a patient without losing the chokehold on the patient's throat. I wish to reiterate that all unlawful, unilateral sanctions against Syria should be unconditionally and fully lifted."

Syria has been a target of US sanctions since 1979. Washington and its Western allies have dramatically tightened their economic sanctions and restrictions on Damascus after 2011, when the Arab country found itself in the grip of rampant foreign-backed militancy and terrorism.

The US coercive measures intensified even further with the passing of the Caesar Act in 2019, which targeted any individual and business that participated either directly or indirectly in Syria's reconstruction efforts.

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Syria shoots down Israeli missiles as regime's new raid targets Homs

Iran Press TV

Sunday, 02 July 2023 12:27 AM

Syrian air defenses have intercepted and shot down Israeli missiles after the regime carried out a new airstrike against targets near the western city of Homs.

Citing a military source, the official Syrian Arab News Agency, SANA, said the air raid was carried out at around 00:20 local time on Sunday.

The Israeli military staged the airstrike "from the direction of the northeast [of the Lebanese capital city] of Beirut targeting some areas in the vicinity of the city of Homs," the military source said.

Following the strike, Syrian air defenses responded by intercepting the incoming Israeli missiles midair and shooting down most of them.

The air raid only led to some material damage, the source concluded.

A spokesperson for the Israeli military claimed that the regime's warplanes targeted a Syrian air defense battery from which an anti-aircraft missile had earlier been launched towards the occupied territories, causing no casualties.

The new strike followed a mid-June missile attack by the regime on the Syrian capital city of Damascus.

That strike came from the direction of Israeli-occupied Golan Heights, leaving one Syrian soldier with serious injuries and causing some material damage.

Israel frequently attacks the positions of Syria's military and its allies since 2011, when the Arab country found itself in the grip of rampant foreign-backed violence and terrorism.

The regime's attacks mostly target the positions of Syria's allies that have been aiding the country in its uphill battle against foreign-sponsored terror groups.

Damascus has repeatedly complained to the United Nations over the Israeli assaults, urging the world body's Security Council to take action against Tel Aviv's crimes. Its demands, however, have fallen on deaf ears.

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Japan think tank invites Taiwan scholars to tabletop war games: Source

ROC Central News Agency

07/01/2023 06:16 PM

Taipei, July 1 (CNA) Some Taiwanese defense scholars have been invited to observe the tabletop war games that will be held later this month by a Japanese think tank, simulating a military conflict across the Taiwan Strait, a source told CNA recently.

The source, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said the invitation was extended in early June, during a visit to Taiwan by Reiko Nagano, secretary-general of the Japan Forum for Strategic Studies (JFSS), at the head of a delegation.

Nagano's delegation, which included former Japanese Ground Self-Defense Force chief of staff Kiyofumi Iwata, former Japanese Maritime Self-Defense Force chief of staff Tomohisa Takei and former Japanese Air Materiel Command Commander Oue Sadamasa, was in Taipei to visit the Institute for National Defense and Security Research (INDSR).

During the visit, the delegation extended an invitation for some Taiwanese defense scholars to observe the war games in Japan, which are expected to start sometime between July 15 and 23, the source told CNA.

The tabletop games in Japan would simulate a blockade of Taiwan by the Chinese People's Liberation Army, the INDSR had said earlier.

The response would focus on battlefield management and collaborative defense measures, in keeping with the notion that "a Taiwan emergency is a Japanese emergency," the institute said.

If Taiwan defense scholars do attend the war games as observers, it will be the first unofficial collaborative effort of its kind between the United States, Japan and Taiwan since the exercise was first held in August 2021, according to the INDSR.

(By Matt Yu and Ko Lin)

Enditem/pc

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EU declares position on Taiwan-China issue for 1st time at summit

ROC Central News Agency

07/01/2023 03:32 PM

Brussels, June 30 (CNA) European Union leaders took a stance on the cross-Taiwan Strait issue on Friday for the first time, saying during a summit that they are against any unilateral moves to change the status quo.

The East and South China Seas are of strategic importance for regional and global prosperity and security, and the EU is concerned about growing tensions in the Taiwan Strait, the leaders said in the conclusions issued after the two-day European Council meeting.

"The European Council opposes any unilateral attempts to change the status quo by force or coercion. It reconfirms the EU's consistent 'One China policy,'" according to the conclusions.

In addition, the EU expressed concerns about how China handles human rights issues, including forced labor, the treatment of human rights defenders and minorities, the situation in Tibet and Xinjiang, and the honoring of its previous commitments related to Hong Kong.

In the conclusions, the EU reiterated its multifaceted policy approach towards China, which it said was simultaneously a partner, competitor and systemic rival.

With that in mind, the EU said, it will continue to engage with China to tackle global challenges and will encourage China to take more ambitious action on climate change, biodiversity, pandemic preparedness and humanitarian assistance, among other issues.

The EU said it will seek to ensure a level playing field with China, so that their trade and economic relationship can be balanced, reciprocal and mutually beneficial.

Meanwhile, the leaders said, the 27-member bloc will continue to reduce critical dependencies and vulnerabilities on China, including on its supply chains, and will "de-risk and diversify where necessary and appropriate."

(By Tien Hsi-ju and Lee Hsin-Yin)

Enditem/pc

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Ukraine has not received arms promised by West for counteroffensive: Top commander

Iran Press TV

Saturday, 01 July 2023 2:47 PM

The commander-in-chief of the Ukrainian military says plans for a counteroffensive have been slowed by a lack of adequate firepower promised by the Western backers of Kiev.

The top officer in Ukraine's armed forces General Valery Zaluzhny told The Washington Post that for Ukraine's counteroffensive to progress faster, he needs more a of every weapon.

Zaluzhny said that he is frustrated by the slow deliveries of promised weaponry, including F-16 fighters.

"I do not need 120 planes." he said." "I'm not going to threaten the whole world. A very limited number would be enough."

Zaluzhny said he is telling anyone who will listen, including his American counterpart Mark Milley that he needs those resources now.

"They are needed. Because there is no other way. Because the enemy is using a different generation of aviation," he said.

"We have an agreement: 24/7, we're in touch. So, sometimes I can call up and say, 'If I don't get 100,000 shells in a week, 1,000 people will die. Step into my shoes,'" he told the Post.

Milley said later on Friday that Ukraine's counteroffensive was "advancing steadily, deliberately working its way through very difficult minefields."

He told an audience at the National Press Club in Washington that the US and allies were working hard to supply Ukraine. "We are giving them as much help as humanly possible."

"Sure, it goes a little slow but that is part of the nature of war," he said. "War on paper and real war are different."

Ukraine launched a counteroffensive last month to reclaim territory under Russian control. But President Volodymyr Zelensky acknowledged last week that plans for the counteroffensive had slowed in recent months.

"We stopped because we could not advance," said the Ukrainian president. "Advancing meant losing people and we had no artillery."

Zelensky on Saturday accused "some" Western partners of dragging their feet over plans to train Ukrainian pilots to fly fighter jets.

"Do they have an understanding of when Ukraine can get the F-16?" Zelensky told reporters alongside Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez, referring to the West.

"There is no schedule of training missions. I believe that some partners are dragging their feet. Why are they doing it? I don't know."

Russia has also described the counteroffensive against its forces as "unsuccessful."

The US has said it is providing Ukraine with what it needs when it needs it. But leaked US military and intelligence documents previously indicated alarming Ukrainian shortfalls in Western-supplied weaponry a especially ammunition and air defense.

According to information obtained by Washington Post and other news outlets, dating to late February and early March, Ukraine's "ability to provide medium-range air defense to protect the [front lines] will be completely reduced by May 23. "

A senior Ukrainian official said the leaks had angered Kiev's military and political leaders, who have sought to conceal vulnerabilities related to ammunition shortages and other battlefield data from Russia over the course of the war.

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Ukraine Battles, Civilian Casualties Continue Amid U.S. Report Of Kyiv Press Toward Cease-Fire Talks 'By End Of Year'

By RFE/RL's Ukrainian Service July 01, 2023

Russian and Ukrainian forces were battling throughout eastern and southern Ukraine as Kyiv asserted a possible shift in the strategic balance, while a U.S. report hinted at Ukrainian hopes for a possible endgame that could lead to peace talks in the 15-month-old full-scale Russian invasion.

Ukraine's General Staff said in its early assessment on July 1 that its forces had engaged in around 20 battles against Russian troops the previous day.

It said Ukrainian forces had beat back Russian offensives in areas around Lyman, Bakhmut, Avdiyivka, and Maryinka on June 30.

Donetsk regional Governor Pavlo Kyrylenko and other Ukrainian officials said at least three civilians were killed and 17 others wounded by Russian shelling overnight in and around the three cities.

The general staff also cited heavy aerial attacks from Russian forces in the eastern regions of Luhansk and Donetsk and the southern Zaporizhzhya and Kherson regions.

It said Russia's "main efforts" in the south were aimed at "preventing the advance of Ukrainian troops."

RFE/RL cannot confirm claims of battlefield developments by either side in areas of heavy fighting.

The latest update by British intelligence on July 1 said Ukrainian troops had secured a bridgehead on the Russian-occupied eastern bank of the Dnieper River near the destroyed Antonivskiy Bridge.

The report said Kyiv's forces have been fortifying the stronghold since June 23 in the face of heavy fighting by Russia's 7th Guards Air Assault Division as Ukraine presses its counteroffensive in the south.

The Washington Post reported on June 30 that CIA Director William Burns recently visited Ukraine to meet with President Volodymyr Zelenskiy and intelligence officials and to hear their "ambitious strategy to retake Russian-occupied territory and open cease-fire negotiations with Moscow by the end of the year."

In a joint news conference with visiting Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez, Zelenskiy said Kyiv's position remains unchanged and that before any negotiations can begin, Ukraine must gain control of the country's internationally recognized borders of 1991, meaning the return of Russia-occupied Crime and sections of eastern Ukraine.

Burns' previously unreported trip coincides with a widely anticipated counteroffensive that Zelenskiy said has been "slower than hoped" but which Ukrainian officials claim has shifted the "strategic initiative" in the 16-month full-scale Russian invasion.

Malyar said on June 30 that Ukrainian forces were making gains "in all directions."

Kyiv has suggested that it still has not deployed the bulk of Ukraine's Western-trained forces and heavy equipment.

Burns's purported trip came shortly before the abortive mutiny on June 24 by Wagner mercenary group leader Yevgeny Prigozhin and his paid fighters, who have been essential components of Russia's invasion alongside hundreds of thousands of regular troops and conscripts.

Prigozhin and an untold number of those mercenaries have reportedly been offered haven in Belarus, prompting Zelenskiy to buttress Ukraine's defenses along its northern border.

Burns' trip was one of many he has made "regularly" to Ukraine since February 2022, an unnamed source told The Washington Post, in this case to share intelligence and pledge ongoing U.S. commitment to Ukraine's defense efforts.

The Washington Post and other media reported that Burns called Russian intelligence chief Sergei Naryshkin after the mutiny to tell Moscow that the United States had no role in it.

Ukrainian Defense Minister Oleksiy Reznikov has urged patience and said the "main event" in Kyiv's counteroffensive is still to come.

U.S. Army General Mark Milley, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, said this week that the Ukrainian counteroffensive is making steady progress, although perhaps not as rapidly as many in the West had anticipated.

On June 28, the United States announced a further $500 million arms package to bolster the Ukrainian counteroffensive.

In an interview published on June 30, Ukraine's top commander Valeriy Zaluzhniy complained that the perceived slow pace of Western weapons supplies "pisses me off." Speaking to The Washington Post, he pressed Kyiv's call for F-16 fighters pledged by its Western allies.

"I do not need 120 planes," Zaluzhniy said in an interview. "I'm not going to threaten the whole world. A very limited number would be enough."

Zelenskiy, in his news conference with Sanchez, lamented that "some of our partners are dragging their feet" when it comes to the training of Ukrainian pilots on F-16 warplanes promised by Western allies.

He said there was still no firm date to begin pilot training on the sophisticated U.S.-made jets.

With reporting by The Washington Post and AP

Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/ukraine-battles- russia-cease-fire-end-year-burns/32484851.html

Copyright (c) 2023. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036.

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Marking New EU Presidency, Spanish Prime Minister Visits Ukraine In Show Of Support

By RFE/RL's Ukrainian Service July 01, 2023

KYIV -- Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez said his July 1 visit to Kyiv demonstrates the European Union's "clear and unequivocal political commitment" to Ukraine's efforts to join the 27-member bloc, even as it battles against Russia's full-scale invasion.

"Speaking of the European Union's perspective on Ukraine's EU accession, my being here on the first day of [Spain's] six-month presidency...demonstrates a clear and unequivocal political commitment on the part of the community institutions in this respect," Sanchez said in a joint news conference with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy.

"I would like to congratulate Ukraine for the positive trend and encourage it to continue its path of reforms," he added.

In an earlier address to the Ukrainian parliament, Sanchez said his country will provide an additional 55 million euro ($60 million) in financial aid to help Ukraine rebuild its economy in the face of the Russian invasion.

Sanchez is visiting Kyiv to meet with Zelenskiy and other officials and to demonstrate ongoing EU support for Ukraine on the first day of Spain's six-month stint as president of the Council of the European Union.

In a joint declaration, the two leaders stated: "Spain reiterates its support to the candidacy of Ukraine to join the EU, which will be among the priorities of its presidency. Spain supports strengthening NATO's partnership with Ukraine, including through the creation of a NATO-Ukraine Council."

The trip comes with Ukraine's civilian and military leaders urging more urgent supplies of advanced weaponry, including fighter jets, to boost a counteroffensive that Kyiv says is progressing slowly but steadily to push Russian forces out of the country following their full-scale invasion 16 months ago.

Sanchez was quoted as saying in Kyiv that "we are with you and we will be as long as necessary," adding, "I wanted to tell you that we will support Ukraine, regardless of the price."

Upon his arrival, Sanchez posted a video from the train station in Kyiv in which he was being met by a Ukrainian delegation.

"I wanted the first act of the Spanish presidency of the council of the European Union to be in Ukraine together with @ZelenskyyUa," Sanchez wrote alongside the clip, using the Ukrainian president's Twitter handle.

Sanchez added that he wanted to convey to the Ukrainian parliament and government "all of Europe's solidarity."

"We will maintain our support for the Ukrainian people until peace returns to Europe," he said.

Sanchez reportedly traveled via Poland.

The visit comes ahead of a NATO summit in Lithuania's capital later this month where transatlantic allies are expected to hash out a strategy and road map for relations with Ukraine, which has dramatically intensified its calls for EU and NATO membership since Russia's invasion began in February 2022.

NATO is not expected to offer membership at the Vilnius summit, although many Western military and other officials argue that the conflict with Russia, the resulting Western equipment and training, and Ukrainians' staunch defense of their country combine to make the Ukrainian military an elite European fighting force.

Spain has been in NATO since 1982 and a member of the European Union since 1986.

It was among the first European states to provide nonlethal support for the Ukrainian military with shipments of bulletproof jackets and helmets after the all-out Russian invasion began in February 2022.

It pivoted quickly to back Ukraine despite fears that it might cling to a "hope that Moscow might somehow form part of a future European security architecture," according to the Elcano Royal Institute, a nonpartisan think tank.

Polls cited on July 1 show Spain's conservative People's Party as the front-runner to win the most seats in Spain's national elections set for next month, ahead of Sanchez's ruling Socialist Workers' Party (PSOE).

With reporting by AFP

Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/ukraine-spanish-pm- sanchez-visits-kyiv/32484917.html

Copyright (c) 2023. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036.

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Russian Forces Repel Another Ukrainian Counteroffensive Attempt Near Bakhmut - Source

Sputnik News

20230701

DONETSK (Sputnik) - The Ukrainian military unsuccessfully attempted to conduct an offensive near the village of Berkhovka in the Artemovsk (Bakhmut) district of the Donetsk People's Republic on Saturday, a source in the command of Russia's South group of troops told Sputnik.

"Airborne troops stopped the enemy in the gray zone ... As a result of the battle, more than 200 Ukrainian military personnel, five tanks, eight infantry fighting vehicles and more than 10 unmanned aerial vehicles were destroyed," the source said.

In total, over 300 soldiers, six tanks and 10 armored combat vehicles took part in the offensive, the source added.

Ukraine has touted its coming offensive since late 2022. It was first scheduled for the spring, then rescheduled to the summer. The Ukrainian government said the postponement was due to a shortage of weapons, all while pushing its Western donors to supply progressively heavier arms, including tanks, drones and fighter jets.

Ukrainian troops launched a large-scale offensive in five sectors of the South Donetsk direction on June 4 but failed to achieve their goals, the Russian Defense Ministry said. Since then, the Ukrainian military has been trying to break through the defense lines of the Russian armed forces in the Donetsk and Zaporozhye regions, but their attempts have been unsuccessful and Ukraine has suffered heavy losses in armored equipment and manpower.

A Sputnik

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Ukraine Orders Monks to Leave Kiev-Pechersk Lavra by July 4

Sputnik News

20230701

MOSCOW (Sputnik) - The Ukrainian Culture Ministry has created a commission for sealing the premises of one of the most prominent Orthodox monasteries - Kiev-Pechersk Lavra, urging the monks of the canonical Ukrainian Orthodox Church (UOC) to vacate the compound before July 4, clerics' legal adviser Nikita Chekman said on Saturday.

"A commission has been created for sealing the buildings, which begins its work on July 4, 2023. In this regard, we ask you to vacate the premises and give the keys from them to the reserve. If the monastery refuses to give the keys from the buildings ... the locks will be replaced and the buildings will be sealed," the decree, posted by Chekman on Telegram, read.

The UOC said that the demand to vacate the monastery was illegal and arbitrary.

"In this regard, the UOC Legal Department reports that as of today, the unilateral termination of the contract is appealed in court. No decision has been made by the court on this matter. Accordingly, the reserve does not have any legal basis for such actions, and the demand to vacate the buildings and hand over the keys from them is illegal and should be considered as arbitrariness," an official statement said.

The UOC Legal Department urged the reserve and members of the commission not to violate the law and to wait for the legal decision of the court.

Tensions between the Kiev regime and the Ukrainian Orthodox Church escalated after the start of Russian special military operation in Ukraine in February 2022. Ukrainian authorities started a crackdown on the Orthodox community, accusing believers of having ties with Russia.

Kiev has ordered UOC monks to leave the Kiev-Pechersk Lavra, claiming they allegedly violated the terms of the lease. The Lavra's jurisdiction was divided between the National Kiev-Pechersk Historical and Cultural Preserve and the UOC itself.

Ukrainian Culture Minister Oleksandr Tkachenko said then the monks could stay in the Lavra if they join the non-canonical Orthodox Church of Ukraine (OCU), created by Ukrainian authorities to put the Christians across the country under the government's control. The monks refused and slammed the eviction order as illegal because it was not supported by a court decision.

A Sputnik

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Russian Forces Repel Ukrainian Attack in South Donetsk Direction

Sputnik News

20230701

MOSCOW (Sputnik) - Russian forces have repelled an attempt of Ukrainian troops to attack in the south Donetsk direction, a Russian Defense Ministry spokesperson told Sputnik.

"In the south Donetsk direction, the advanced units of the Vostok group of forces, with the support of artillery, inflicted fire damage on the advancing enemy forces in the Makarievka area. An armored combat vehicle and manpower were destroyed," the spokesperson said.

In addition, Russian forces destroyed a Ukrainian mortar crew and an enemy drone control center and hit concentrations of Ukrainian manpower in the Makarievka area, the spokesperson told Sputnik.

In the Zaporozhye direction, Russian forces thwarted an attempt by Ukrainian troops to conduct reconnaissance by force. Three Ukrainian drones were shot down.

A Sputnik

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MONDAY, JULY 3

Monday Night Trivia with Brandon The Trivia Guy: 7 p.m., Prince Michel Vineyard and Winery and Tap 29 Brewery in Leon, (800) 800-WINE, no cover.

TUESDAY, JULY 4

Independence Day Celebration with music by Don't Look Up: Vision BBQ, Popitos Pizza and Sweet Janes Kitchen food trucks will be there, 6-9 p.m., Carter Mountain Orchard, $10, free if 12 or younger.

July 4 Music in the Mountains with Jimmy O: 1-4 p.m., DuCard Vineyards in Etlan, (540) 923-4206, no cover, reservations recommended.

July 4 Music in the Mountains with Laissez Foure: 5-8 p.m., DuCard Vineyards in Etlan, (540) 923-4206, no cover, reservations recommended.

Independence Day with music by South Canal Street: Music from 4 to 8 p.m., Fireworks at about 9 p.m., Graves' Mountain Farm & Lodges, free, Madison Volunteer Fire Co. will accept donations for parking.

Red, White, Blue in Greene with music by Southern Sky at 6 p.m. and Mark Wills at 8 p.m.: Fireworks will begin at about 9:35 p.m., Morris Field in Ruckersville. Parking is limited; carpooling is encouraged.

Independence Day Concert with music by Heifetz International Music Institute musicians: 2-4 p.m., Hilltop Pavilion at James Monroe's Highland, (434) 293-8000, free, picnics welcome.

61st annual Independence Day Celebration and Naturalization Ceremony and livestream: 9 a.m., includes presentation of colors by Boy Scouts of America Troop 75 and music by the Charlottesville Band, Charlottesville Opera, Old Line Fife and Drum Corps and Oratorio Society of Virginia, West Portico of Thomas Jefferson's Monticello, free, registration for shuttle rides required at monticello.org. Plan to arrive at Piedmont Virginia Community College at 8 a.m. and take the shuttle.

WEDNESDAY, JULY 5

Jacob Paul Allen in Summer Sunsets: 5:30-8 p.m., Blue Mountain Brewery, no cover.

James 3 Duo in Wind Down Wednesdays: 6-9 p.m., Two Brothers Southwestern Grill food truck will be there, Carter Mountain Orchard, (434) 977-1833, $5 ages 12 and older.

Charlottesville Opera's New Works Concert with composer Tom Cipullo and Ader Emerging Artists: 11 a.m., The Center at Belvedere, (434) 293-4500, free.

Charlottesville Band Presents: Summer at the Paramount: "Patriots and Princesses": 7:30 p.m., Paramount Theater, (434) 979-1333, free.

THURSDAY, JULY 6

Zuzu's Hot 5 in Thursday Evening Concert Series: 6-9 p.m., Good Waffles and Co. and Popitos Pizza food trucks will be there, Carter Mountain Orchard, (434) 977-1833, $10 ages 12 and older.

Pale Blue Dot with Studebaker Huck plus Sullivan Smith and Stray Lions: 8 p.m., doors open at 7:30 p.m., The Southern Cafe and Music Hall, (800) 594-8499, $15, $12 advance, $40 for ticket four-pack.

Tailgate Thursdays with music by Hungry Hard Luck Heroes: Oysters will be available, 6-9 p.m., Stinson Vineyards, (434) 823-7300, no cover, bring foods to grill.

FRIDAY, JULY 7

Full Nelson Friday with McHale & Justina: 5-9 p.m., Blue Mountain Brewery, no cover.

Max Mandu in Summer Sundown: 6-9 p.m., Chiswell Farm & Winery, (434) 252-2947, call for price.

"Cabaret" in Virginia Theatre Festival: 7:30 p.m., Culbreth Theatre at University of Virginia, (434) 924-3376, $35-$15. Contains mature content and sexual situations.

First Fridays: Grillin' & Chillin' with Ken Matthews: 5-8 p.m., DuCard Vineyards in Etlan, (540) 923-4206, no cover, reservations recommended.

Fridays After Five: BJP'z World of Music with Jordan Harmon & the Humble Brag: 5:30 p.m., Ting Pavilion, (434) 245-4910, free.

Festive Fridays I: Opening Night: "Wintergreen Swings  Big Band Style!" for Wintergreen Music Festival: 7:30 p.m., Dunlop Pavilion at Wintergreen Resort, (434) 361-0541, $39-$6, free if younger than 6.

SATURDAY, JULY 8

"Cabaret" in Virginia Theatre Festival: 7:30 p.m., Culbreth Theatre at University of Virginia, (434) 924-3376, $35-$15. Contains mature content and sexual situations.

Music in the Mountains with Matt Johnson: 2-5 p.m., DuCard Vineyards in Etlan, (540) 923-4206, no cover, reservations recommended.

Second Saturday Music in the Mountains with Joint Venture: Just A Bite food truck will be there, 5-8 p.m., DuCard Vineyards in Etlan, (540) 923-4206, no cover, reservations recommended.

Hard Swimmin' Fish: Salsa Street Grill food truck will be there, 5-8 p.m., Glass House Winery, (434) 975-0094, no cover.

Gimme Gimme Disco: A Dance Party Inspired by ABBA: 9 p.m., doors open at 8 p.m., Jefferson Theater, (800) 594-8499, $25, $20 advance (Tier 1), $18 advance (Tier 2), $15 early-bird general admission, must be 18 or older.

MountainTop Masterworks I: "Barber 'Violin Concerto' with Elisabeth Adkins" for Wintergreen Music Festival: Erin Freeman will conduct, 6 p.m., Dunlop Pavilion at Wintergreen Resort, (434) 361-0541, $39-$6, free if younger than 6.

SUNDAY, JULY 9

"Cabaret" in Virginia Theatre Festival: 2 p.m., Culbreth Theatre at University of Virginia, (434) 924-3376, $35-$15. Contains mature content and sexual situations.

Music in the Mountains with Spencer Hatcher & The Ol' Son Gang: 2-5 p.m., DuCard Vineyards in Etlan, (540) 923-4206, no cover, reservations recommended.

John Kelly: 5-8 p.m., Glass House Winery, (434) 975-0094, no cover, donations accepted.

MountainTop Masterworks I: "Barber 'Violin Concerto' with Elisabeth Adkins" for Wintergreen Music Festival: Erin Freeman will conduct, 3 p.m., Freeman presents pre-concert talk at 2 p.m., Dunlop Pavilion at Wintergreen Resort, (434) 361-0541, $39-$6, free if younger than 6.

MONDAY, JULY 10

Monday Night Trivia with Brandon The Trivia Guy: 7 p.m., Prince Michel Vineyard and Winery and Tap 29 Brewery in Leon, (800) 800-WINE, no cover.

 From staff reports
Report: CIA Chief Made Secret Trip to Ukraine to Discuss Battle Plans, Ceasefire Talks

Sputnik News

20230701

WASHINGTON (Sputnik) - The head of the CIA in a secret trip to Ukraine reportedly held talks with officials on an ambitious strategy to retake territory from Russia and open ceasefire talks with Moscow by year-end.

Citing officials familiar with the visit, US media reported that CIA Director William Burns during the trip in June met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and Ukraine's top intelligence officials. The purpose of the visit was to reaffirm the Biden administration's commitment to sharing intelligence designed to help Ukraine in the conflict.

Ukraine officials told Burns they aim to move artillery and missile systems near the boundary line of Crimea and push further into eastern Ukraine by the fall. Then Kiev intends to open negotiations with Moscow for the first time since they broke down in March of last year, the report said, citing people involved with the planning.

Officials reportedly later said they hope by agreeing not to take Crimea, Russia would accept whatever security guarantees Kiev can secure from the West.

One Ukrainian official told the outlet "the US agrees that Ukraine should enter the negotiations from a strong position."

The CIA refused to comment when asked about Burns' assessment of Kiev's plans, the report said.

Burns' trip occurred just before Wagner chief Yevgeniy Prigozhin's aborted mutiny. The report said the US intelligence community had detected in mid-June that Prigozhin was plotting something, but that those findings were not relayed to Ukrainian officials.

According to the report, Kiev is under extraordinary pressure from Western allies that provided Ukraine with billions of dollars in weaponry ahead of the counteroffensive.

Earlier Friday, US media reported that Burns recently called his Russian counterpart, Sergey Naryshkin, to inform him that the United States had no involvement in Prigozhin's aborted mutiny.

Ukraine launched its much-touted counteroffensive in early June after multiple postponements. The Russian Defense Ministry has repeatedly said Ukrainian troops are trying to advance in the South Donetsk, Artemovsk, and Zaporozhye directions, but without success.

On Tuesday, Russian President Vladimir Putin said that Ukraine lost as many as 259 tanks and 780 armored vehicles since the start of its counter-offensive. A number of Western media also noted the weak results of Kiev's counteroffensive, while Zelensky himself admitted that the progress was "slower than desired."

A Sputnik

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All those who help aggressor to receive response of Ukraine and the whole world - address of President Volodymyr Zelenskyy

President of Ukraine

1 July 2023 - 21:26

Dear Ukrainians, I wish you health!

We are ending this day in Rivne region - I held another visiting meeting of the Supreme Commander-in-Chief's Staff. Key issues of security in the northern regions of our country, our measures to strengthen security. Everything that concerns the border, our forces of the Pivnich operational-strategic group, and Ukrainian strategic facilities - such as the Rivne nuclear power plant, where the Staff meeting took place.

There were reports of intelligence, the Commander-in-Chief, the commander of the Pivnich group, the head of the border guard service, the minister of internal affairs, and the head of Rivne Regional Military Administration on social issues and people's needs. There was also a report by Head of Energoatom Kotin, director of the Rivne NPP.

In general, not only everything related to the physical security of our strategic facilities and northern regions but also such sensitive issues as cybersecurity were worked out in detail.

Thank you to everyone in Rivne region and here, at the Rivne NPP, and along the entire perimeter of our northern border, who cares about the safety of Ukraine and our people.

Today, another package of Ukrainian sanctions was published against those who help Russia wage this terrorist war. In particular, sanctions against almost 300 legal entities and almost 200 individuals. And these are not only citizens of Russia. Anyone in the world who helps the aggressor will receive a response from Ukraine and the whole world.

Spanish Prime Minister SAnchez paid a visit to Ukraine today. It is very symbolic - on the first day of the beginning of the Spanish Presidency of the Council of the European Union. This clearly speaks to a new reality. It was always impossible to imagine our common European home as complete without Ukraine. And now we have achieved at the political level that European affairs are no longer considered without Ukraine.

This visit of Mr. Prime Minister SAnchez speaks about the priorities of the Spanish presidency and our cooperation. I thank you, Spain, for your support - defense, political, economic! I'd like to express my special thanks for the respect and help to our people who found refuge in Spain, fleeing the hostilities in Ukraine. I believe soon we will be able to provide all the necessary conditions for our people to return home to Ukraine.

By the way, today, we signed a joint statement with Mr. Prime Minister SAnchez regarding support for Ukraine's European and Euro-Atlantic prospects, and this is already the 21st such statement, that is, the majority supported our prospects, in particular in the issue of membership in the Alliance... Belgium, Denmark, our friends from Estonia, Italy, Iceland, Spain, Canada, this is Latvia, this is Lithuania, the Netherlands, Germany, this is Norway and Poland, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Finland, France, the Czech Republic, Montenegro, and Sweden. Thanks to all of you!

I am also grateful to those states with which we do not yet have such joint signed statements and declarations, but which absolutely clearly support Ukraine on its way to NATO, and therefore support the approach of real peace throughout Europe. Thank you!

And one more.

Today, there was a message from the National Energy and Utilities Regulatory Commission about the increase in water tariffs. Shameful decision to say the least. Unprofessional. Not agreed with the government. We cannot and will not accept such decisions calmly. The government is instructed to present a solution in response. And they will be.

Glory to Ukraine!

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When Russians withdraw from Zaporizhzhia NPP, its territory would require careful check to exclude remote detonation possibility - President in interview with Spanish media

President of Ukraine

1 July 2023 - 20:34

If the world forces Russia to de-occupy the Zaporizhzhia NPP, at the time of handover, the IAEA must conduct a thorough survey of the entire plant to exclude the possibility of its remote detonation. President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy said this in an interview with representatives of the leading Spanish media.

"The Zaporizhzhia NPP is mined. This is the fact. There are mined areas. The IAEA confirms that the Zaporizhzhia plant is mined, but they say that the reactor is not mined. However, this is confirmation that the plant is mined. Our intelligence clearly confirmed that the plant is mined. We have a clear confirmation, according to our information, that there are about 500 fighters at the plant. The IAEA does not know the exact number, but they say: yes, a large number of fighters with various weapons, with grenades. There are heavy weapons on the territory of the plant," the President said.

According to the Head of State, the presence of weapons and mines at the NPP creates an obviously dangerous situation.

He said that, according to information from Ukrainian intelligence, the Russian Federation has a plan to provoke the release of hazardous substances at the plant. But, since the Ukrainian side does not fire on the ZNPP, the occupiers are looking for a format and moment to implement this plan.

"That's why it's very dangerous. We talk about it out loud again and again - just as we talked about the blowing up of the dam of the Kakhovka reservoir a year ago. We shared our data with intelligence partners. The same thing is happening now with the Zaporizhzhia power plant," Zelenskyy said.

The President said that he had discussed this acute situation with IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi, but his experts alone, without the support of the world, will not be able to force Russia to leave the ZNNP.

"Even if we, the whole world, manage to influence Russia to hand over the plant... At the moment of handing over the plant, the IAEA needs forces, means, and people who will check the plant being handed over. Because we are sure that they will hand it over with mined elements so that they have a chance later - we know for sure that this was considered by the Russian Federation as one of the plans - then, when the plant is handed over to us, to detonate remotely for the release," the Head of State said.

Therefore, he is convinced that at the time of the transfer of the Zaporizhzhia power plant to the IAEA, it will be necessary to check it in great detail, as well as to warn the Russian Federation that their plans are known.

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Russia may stage terrorist attack on ZNPP to scare the world with consequences of war, politically influence Ukraine's counteroffensive - Volodymyr Zelenskyy

President of Ukraine

1 July 2023 - 18:22

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy believes that Russia may resort to a terrorist act at the Zaporizhzhia NPP, which it occupies, to scare the world with the possible consequences of its aggression against Ukraine and create political influence on the counteroffensive actions of the Ukrainian army. The Head of State said this at a meeting with media representatives after talks with President of the Government of Spain Pedro SAnchez in Kyiv.

"We have been saying for a long time that there is a serious threat. Because Russia is technically ready to provoke a local explosion at the plant, which could lead to the release of dangerous substances into the air. We communicate this very clearly. We are discussing all this with our partners so that everyone understands why Russia is doing this and puts pressure on the Russian Federation politically so that they don't even think about such a thing," Zelenskyy said, answering journalists' questions.

According to the President, the Russian occupiers are resorting to terrorist acts because their army has been showing weakness on the battlefield throughout the year. Therefore, the Russians are trying to stop Ukraine's defense forces with acts of terrorism such as blowing up the Kakhovka HPP dam or a possible local act of terrorism at the ZNPP.

In addition, Zelenskyy is convinced that the Russian Federation wants to show that its aggressive war against Ukraine is dangerous for the world. "So that people are afraid of it. So that later some partners, especially those skeptics, start politically stopping Ukraine, our counteroffensive actions," he said.

The Head of State said that Ukraine has been saying for a long time that the Zaporizhzhia NPP should be returned under the full control of the Ukrainian authorities. And it is also crucial that independent experts check everything at the time of the transfer of control over the plant to Ukraine. According to the President, the IAEA, which is a mediator and can involve other states, should play its role in this.

"Because there can be remote mines. Then to say that everything was fine under the control of the occupiers, but now there is a release. This is a very important moment," Zelenskyy said.

Answering journalists' questions about the prospects of Ukraine receiving F-16 aircraft, the President recalled that agreements had been reached on the creation of a coalition of countries that are ready to start appropriate training for Ukrainian pilots. Now, Ukraine is waiting for the schedule of these training missions, the Head of State said.

"We have agreed, pressed, and we have a coalition of countries ready to start training for Ukrainian pilots. There is no schedule of training missions. I believe that some partners drag it out. I don't know why they are doing it," Zelenskyy said.

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Joint declaration of the President of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelenskyy and the President of the Government of Spain, Pedro SAnchez

President of Ukraine

1 July 2023 - 14:52

At their meeting in Kyiv on 1 July 2023, coinciding with the first day of the Spanish Presidency of the Council of the European Union, the President of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, and the President of the Government of Spain, Pedro SAnchez, issued the following joint declaration.

1. The President of Ukraine and the President of the Government of Spain reiterated their unequivocal condemnation of Russia's ongoing war of aggression against Ukraine, which undermines the rules-based international order and the United Nations Charter. Ukraine has shown remarkable determination in exercising its inherent right to self-defence against this unprovoked and unjustified attack. Russia must immediately, completely and unconditionally withdraw all its military forces from the territory of Ukraine within its internationally recognized borders.

2. Spain reiterates its unwavering commitment to Ukraine's independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity within its internationally recognised borders, and commends the determination and courage of the Ukrainian people and its armed forces in the defence against the Russian illegal aggression and in securing Ukraine's free and democratic future.

3. Ukraine highly values the wide assistance provided by Spain in the military, technical, defence, diplomatic, humanitarian, economic and financial fields, among others, as well as the solidarity of the Spanish people that currently host more than 175,000 displaced Ukrainians under temporary protection status, which includes free access to Spanish health and education systems. Spain will continue its political, humanitarian and military support to Ukraine and its people, individually and through international cooperation, including in its capacity as current Presidency of the Council of the European Union, for as long as it takes.

4. Spain supports Ukraine's initiative for a just and sustainable peace in line with International Law and the UN Charter and based on Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity, as stipulated in President Zelenkyy's Peace Formula. Spain commends key principles of the Ukrainian Peace Formula and will continue to cooperate with Ukraine to widen international support for the Ukrainian Peace Formula, including through an upcoming Global Peace Summit. Spain is already providing significant contributions under several points identified in the Formula, including food security.

5. Ukraine and Spain underline their firm commitment to bring to justice those responsible of war crimes and other serious crimes committed in connection with Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine, and to support the establishment of an appropriate justice mechanism, backed by broad international support, to ensure full and effective accountability for the crime of aggression. Ukraine and Spain reiterate their support for the investigations of the Prosecutor of the International Criminal Court, and have taken note of the court's arrest warrants.

6. Ukraine and Spain agree on the need to maintain collective pressure on Russia through sanctions to weaken Russia's ability to continue its illegal war of aggression. Efforts to ensure the effective implementation of sanctions, to counter circumvention and to avoid unwanted effects must be strengthened. Proper consideration must also be given to the global negative effects of Russia's war of aggression, including in the field of food security. Spain fully supports the current initiatives that aim to prevent and mitigate these effects, including the Spanish Plan against Food Insecurity and the EU-Ukraine Solidarity Lanes, and calls for the unlimited extension of the Black Sea Grain Initiative and the Grain from Ukraine Humanitarian Program.

7. Ukraine and Spain will continue to work together with others to develop mechanisms to provide compensation for losses, injuries and damages caused by the Russian aggression. To this end, they welcome the international register of damage presented at the Reykjavik Summit of the Council of Europe on 16-17 May 2023.

8. Spain is committed to actively participate in the recovery and reconstruction of Ukraine. Ukraine and Spain agree to unite efforts in this regard. Already now, it is important to lay the ground for an ambitious and long-term engagement that will create opportunities and enable the Ukrainian people to rebuild their country and their economy, based on a transparent and inclusive national reconstruction architecture. Ukraine considers Spain and Spanish companies primary partners in reconstruction, in particular in the infrastructure, energy, transportation, capital goods, health and digital sectors. Engaging all relevant partners, including the private sector as well as national and international organizations and financial institutions with the aim of securing the financial support, investments, capacities and knowledge needed, is essential to ensure a prosperous future for Ukraine.

9. Spain reiterates its support to the candidacy of Ukraine to join the EU, which will be among the priorities of its Presidency. Spain reaffirms its commitment to work with Ukraine as it makes progress in meeting the conditions in its EU accession, taking into account the merit-based approach, and looks forward to the Progress Report by the European Commission, which will become a basis for the decision on the next steps.

10. Spain supports strengthening NATO's partnership with Ukraine, including through the creation of a NATO-Ukraine Council as a venue to further increase and expand the ongoing cooperation to help fulfil Ukraine's path towards the Euro-Atlantic family consistent with the Bucharest Declaration. Spain reiterates its support to NATO's Open Door Policy in accordance with the 2022 NATO Strategic Concept as well as the Madrid NATO Summit Declaration. Ukraine and Spain look forward to addressing these issues at the NATO Summit in Vilnius in July 2023.

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Andriy Yermak discusses implementation of Volodymyr Zelenskyy's Peace Formula with heads of G7, G19, Denmark, UN diplomatic missions

President of Ukraine

1 July 2023 - 12:42

On the instructions of the Head of the Ukrainian State, Head of the Office of the President Andriy Yermak held a meeting with the ambassadors of the G7, G19, Denmark and the UN regarding the return of Ukrainian children illegally deported by Russia and the implementation of the points of President Volodymyr Zelenskyy's Peace Formula.

The meeting took place at the Center for the Protection of Children's Rights opened with the participation of President Zelenskyy shortly before Children's Day.

Commissioner for Human Rights of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine Dmytro Lubinets briefed the diplomats on the crimes committed by Russia against Ukrainian children. Among the most severe are deportation, forced deprivation of Ukrainian citizenship, participation in propaganda actions, militarization, sexual violence, etc. As of today, due to Russian aggression, 494 children have died, more than a thousand have been injured, and tens of thousands of children have been deported, of which only 378 young Ukrainian citizens have been returned.

The head of the President's Office said that the meeting with foreign diplomats took place at the Center for the Protection of Children's Rights because it is dedicated to the problem of illegal deportation of minor citizens of Ukraine, whose return is a priority for our state. He reminded that releasing all prisoners and deportees is the 4th point of the Ukrainian Peace Formula. At the same time, Yermak said that today, there is an urgent need to implement other Formula points, in particular, those related to nuclear, food, energy security, etc.

"President Volodymyr Zelenskyy's Peace Formula is a universal mechanism, the implementation of which will make it possible to achieve a stable and just peace in Ukraine, as well as to create the foundations for security throughout the world based on the principles of international law and the UN Charter," the head of the Office of the President said.

That is why Ukraine calls on representatives of various countries to implement the points of the Peace Formula and participate in the Global Peace Summit, he added.

Yermak informed the diplomats about the work already being carried out to implement the Formula points. He spoke about the details of the meeting of national security and political advisors of the Ukraine-G7-Global South leaders (Copenhagen format), which was recently held in the capital of Denmark. At the meeting, consultations on the key principles for peace were held. The head of the President's Office separately thanked the representatives of those countries that took part in them and highly appreciated the efforts of the Danish government in organizing the event.

Considering the large number of states that expressed their desire to participate in peace consultations, it was decided not only to continue contacts, but also to expand the format, holding regular meetings-consultations with the ambassadors of interested countries on the successful implementation of each point of Zelenskyy's Peace Formula.

"You know what could happen in Zaporizhzhia. It is of great concern to everyone in the world, and only together can we ensure nuclear and radiation safety in Europe. The same is true in global food security. We know our African partners are ready to actively join Ukrainian initiatives. Their implementation will be important for everyone," Yermak said.

The interlocutors emphasized the importance of achieving sustainable and effective peace in Ukraine based on respect for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of our state within internationally recognized borders and agreed to continue the multilateral, regular dialogue on the principles of peace.

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Russian Shelling Kills 3, Injures 17 in Ukraine Amid Visit by Spanish PM

By Jeff Seldin, Penelope Poulou July 01, 2023

Latest developments:

The United States is confident Ukraine's counteroffensive against Russia is making progress despite the lack of any significant break in the Russian lines. Joint Chiefs of Staff Chairman General Mark Milley told an audience in Washington Friday the slow pace of Ukraine's advance is "part of the nature of war."

Milley also said the U.S. is openly considering providing Ukraine with cluster-munitions, long-range Army Tactical Missile System (ATACMS) missiles and even some of its own F-16 fighter jets. "These things are on the table," he said. "There's no decision at this point."

The U.N. expressed concern Friday that no new ships have been registered since June 26 under a deal allowing the safe Black Sea export of grain from Ukraine. "We call on the parties to commit to the continuation and effective implementation of the agreement without further delay," U.N. spokesperson Farhan Haq told reporters.

Russian President Vladimir Putin spoke by phone with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday. Moscow said Modi expressed support for what the Kremlin called the Russian leadership's decisive actions in handling the mutiny by the Wagner mercenary group last Saturday. The call comes after the U.S. and India declared themselves "among the closest partners in the world" last week during a state visit to Washington by Modi. India has yet to condemn ally Russia for the invasion of Ukraine.

Russian forces hit a school in Serhiivka, Donetsk oblast, Friday, killing two members of staff and injuring six others, the regional prosecutor's office reported.

Russian shelling has killed three people and injured 17 others in Ukraine's southern and eastern regions, Ukrainian officials reported Saturday morning. The civilian casualties come as Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez visits Kyiv in a show of support.

Three people died and 10 more suffered wounds Friday in the front-line eastern Donetsk region, where fierce battles are raging, Gov. Pavlo Kyrylenko said Saturday.

The Ukrainian General Staff says intense battles were ongoing in three areas in Donetsk where it cited large numbers of Russian troops attempting to take territory. Authorities on social media said the perimeters of Bakhmut, Lyman and Marinka are seeing clashes, and that Russia had tried unsuccessfully Friday to advance there.

Five people, including a child, were wounded Friday and overnight in the Kherson region in the south, according to Gov. Oleksandr Prokudin. He reported that Russian forces launched 82 artillery, drone, mortar shell and rocket strikes on the province, which is divided by a stretch of the 1,500-kilometer front line and still recovering from flooding unleashed in June by the collapse of the Kakhovka Dam.

In the northeastern Kharkiv region, Russian shelling Friday wounded a 57-year-old civilian man, local Gov. Oleh Syniehubov said. In the Sumy region farther west, a teenage boy was hurt in a strike from across the Russian border, the local military administration reported.

As the fighting rages and Ukraine's counteroffensive continues, Sanchez, whose country currently holds the European Union presidency, is underscoring the EU's unwavering backing as Ukraine's leader has complained about the slow delivery of Western weapons.

Sanchez is reassuring Ukraine it has the support of the European Union. The Spanish prime minister posted on Twitter, "We will keep supporting the Ukrainian people until peace returns to Europe."

Amid this backdrop, it has been learned that CIA Director William Burns made a visit to Ukraine in June. Burns met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and intelligence officials to discuss Ukraine's counteroffensive strategy. Reports of the meetings emerged Friday.

The clandestine discussions are reported to have occurred before Russian mercenary leader Yevgeniy Prigozhin's thwarted rebellion against Russian President Vladimir Putin and the Russian defense establishment.

Burns reportedly called Russian intelligence chief Sergei Naryshkin this week to assure the Kremlin the United States was not involved in last week's aborted mutiny by the Wagner Group's Yevgeny Prigozhin.

The slow pace of Ukraine's counteroffensive against Russian troops is not causing any panic among top U.S. military officials.

Ukrainian officials have expressed frustration in recent days, calling on Washington and the West to provide it more advanced weaponry to help dent Russian defensive positions and allow Ukrainian troops to retake more territory.

U.S. officials say they remain confident, though, that Ukraine's counteroffensive will make headway, even if it takes six to eight weeks before Ukrainian forces see more substantial gains.

"War on paper and real war are different," the top U.S. military commander, Joint Chiefs of Staff Chairman General Mark Milley, told an audience in Washington Friday.

"That it's going slower than people predicted doesn't surprise me at all," Milley said during an appearance at the National Press Club, saying Ukrainian forces are "advancing, steadily, deliberately."

"It's going to be very difficult. It's going to be very long. And it's going to be very, very bloody and no one should have any illusions about any of that," he said.

Earlier Friday, Ukraine's top general told The Washington Post his forces are in desperate need of ammunition and other advanced weaponry.

It "pisses me off," said Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine Valery Zaluzhny. "This is not a show ... It's not a show the whole world is watching and betting on or anything. Every day, every meter is given by blood."

"Without being fully supplied, these plans are not feasible at all," he added, criticizing the West for pushing war plans that rely on air superiority, which neither Ukraine nor Russia have been able to establish.

Zaluzhny and other Ukrainian officials have repeatedly called on the U.S. and its other allies to provide not just tanks and armored vehicles, but cluster munitions, long-range missiles, and modern fighter jets, such as F-16s.

So far, the U.S. has been hesitant to provide Kyiv with such systems, although it has said it will allow its allies to provide Ukraine with the U.S.-made jets and is training its pilots to fly them. Washington says the focus has been on giving Ukraine systems and weapons it can immediately deploy to the front lines.

Milley said Kyiv's requests were not being ignored.

"ATACMS, F-16s or anything else is in a constant review process," Milley said. "These things are on the table. There's no decision at this point."

Milley said the U.S, has also not ruled out providing Ukraine with cluster munitions, despite concerns by some allies about the nature of the bombs.

The munitions, which open in midair and drop bomblets, are opposed by a number of humanitarian groups, which say they have a high rate of failure and often lead to civilian casualties.

Ukrainian Defense Minister Oleksii Reznikov has said Kyiv's forces have successfully liberated nine settlements in Donetsk and Zaporizhzhia oblasts, though the main attack is yet to come.

Northern border

Zelenskyy has asked his senior military leadership to strengthen Ukraine's northern military sector after the arrival in Belarus of Russian mercenary leader Prigozhin.

"The decision ... is for Commander-in-Chief Zaluzhny and 'North' commander [General Serhiy] Naev to implement a set of measures to strengthen this direction," Zelenskyy said on the Telegram messaging app.

White House national security spokesman John Kirby told VOA the U.S. will "continue to monitor Wagner's activities wherever they are around the world, and we're going to continue to hold them properly accountable for the kinds of egregious violent, deadly and illegal conduct ... that they are still capable of conducting."

After pushing Russian forces out of northern regions last year, Ukraine took steps to tighten the defense of its border with Belarus, a close ally of Russia.

VOA White House Bureau Chief Patsy Widakuswara contributed to this report. Some information for this story came from The Associated Press, Agence France-Presse and Reuters.



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NEW YORK, July 02, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Pomerantz LLP is investigating claims on behalf of investors of Xponential Fitness, Inc. (Xponential or the Company) (NYSE: XPOF). Such investors are advised to contact Robert S. Willoughby at newaction@pomlaw.com or 888-476-6529, ext. 7980.



The investigation concerns whether Xponential 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 June 26, 2023, Fuzzy Panda Research (FPR) published a report on Xponential entitled Abusive Franchisor That Is A House Of Cards. Citing interviews with franchisees and disclosure documents, the FPR report alleged that Xponentials Founder and Chief Executive Officer Anthony Geisler, has a long history of misleading investors and business partners and that Xponential is hiding the fact that many of [the Companys] brands and franchisees are struggling.

On this news, Xponentials stock price fell $9.38 per share, or 37.36%, to close at $15.73 per share on June 27, 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 .
All amounts expressed in US dollars

LOULO-GOUNKOTO, Mali, July 02, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Barrick Gold Corporation (NYSE:GOLD)(TSX:ABX)  The 26-year-long partnership between Barrick (previously Randgold) and the state of Mali has built the countrys gold mining industry into a world leader and positioned it strongly for further growth, president and chief executive Mark Bristow said here today.

Speaking at a media briefing, Bristow said the Loulo-Gounkoto complex, one of the worlds top 10 gold producers, was the biggest business in terms of enterprise value in the whole of West Africa. Together with the Morila mine, the complex has contributed $9.3 billion to the Malian economy and accounted for between 5% and 10% of the countrys GDP over the past 10 years. Loulo-Gounkoto is one of Malis largest taxpayers and employers, with a workforce of some 7,000, 97% of whom are Malian nationals. Over the life of the complex the state has received more than 70% of the economic benefits it created.

We are continuing to invest in the future of Loulo-Gounkoto. Successful exploration is more than replacing the ounces we mine as well as identifying new growth opportunities with the potential to deliver the next generation of major discoveries in the Loulo region. The new underground mine at Gounkoto  the complexs third  has developed its first production stopes and the Yalea South cutback is ahead of plan, Bristow said.

We foresee that the complex will be a major contributor to the Malian economy for years to come. The achievement of that vision will require the continued commitment to the mutually rewarding partnership which has brought us this far and delivered sustainable benefits to all stakeholders, including the countrys citizens.

In line with Barricks global policy of local procurement, Malian suppliers accounted for 74% of the complexs purchases, amounting to $298 million, during the first half of this year.

Turning to Loulo-Gounkotos operations, Bristow said the complex was continuing to perform strongly and was on track to achieve its production guidance for this year. It remains tightly focused on the safety of its workers and there were no lost-time injuries again during the past quarter.

As part of Barricks transition to renewable energy, the complex is extending its solar power installation and battery storage system by 40MW. The project is already feeding 10MW into the mines micro-grid and it is expected that its second phase will be commissioned well ahead of the current end-2024 completion date.

Enquiries

Investor and Media Relations

Kathy du Plessis

+44 20 7557 7738

Email: barrick@dpapr.com

Group Regional Manager West Africa

Mahamadou Samake

+223 66 75 61 36

West Africa and Saudi Arabia Operations Manager

Chiaka Berthe

+223 66 74 75 88

Website: www.barrick.com

Cautionary Statement on Forward-Looking Information

Certain information contained or incorporated by reference in this press release, including any information as to our strategy, projects, plans, or future financial or operating performance, constitutes forward-looking statements. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, are forward-looking statements. The words opportunities, on track, guidance, recognize, develop and similar expressions identify forward-looking statements. In particular, this press release contains forward-looking statements including, without limitation, with respect to Loulo-Gounkotos productive partnership with the government of Mali; the Complexs potential to continue to make major contributions to the countrys economy and mining industry; Loulo-Gounkotos ability to achieve its production guidance for 2023; Barricks ability to continue to replace mineral reserves net of depletion; Barricks strategy, plans, targets and goals in respect of environmental and social governance issues, including with respect to greenhouse gas emissions reductions and safety and health; and investments to support community projects, local procurement, employment, education and development programs in Mali.

Forward-looking statements are necessarily based upon a number of estimates and assumptions including material estimates and assumptions related to the factors set forth below that, while considered reasonable by the Company as at the date of this press release in light of managements experience and perception of current conditions and expected developments, are inherently subject to significant business, economic, and competitive uncertainties and contingencies. Known and unknown factors could cause actual results to differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements, and undue reliance should not be placed on such statements and information. Such factors include, but are not limited to: fluctuations in the spot and forward price of gold, copper, or certain other commodities (such as diesel fuel, natural gas, and electricity); the speculative nature of mineral exploration and development; changes in mineral production performance, exploitation, and exploration successes; changes in national and local government legislation, taxation, controls or regulations and/ or changes in the administration of laws, policies and practices, expropriation or nationalization of property and political or economic developments in the Mali and other jurisdictions in which the Company or its affiliates do or may carry on business in the future; risk of loss due to acts of war, terrorism, sabotage and civil disturbances; risks associated with new diseases, epidemics and pandemics, including the effects and potential effects of the global Covid-19 pandemic; litigation and legal and administrative proceedings; employee relations including loss of key employees; increased costs and physical and transition risks related to climate change, including extreme weather events, resource shortages, emerging policies and increased regulations relating to related to greenhouse gas emission levels, energy efficiency and reporting of risks; and availability and increased costs associated with mining inputs and labor. Barrick also cautions that its guidance may be impacted by the ongoing business and social disruption caused by the spread of Covid-19. In addition, there are risks and hazards associated with the business of mineral exploration, development and mining, including environmental hazards, industrial accidents, unusual or unexpected formations, pressures, cave-ins, flooding and gold bullion, copper cathode or gold or copper concentrate losses (and the risk of inadequate insurance, or inability to obtain insurance, to cover these risks).

Many of these uncertainties and contingencies can affect our actual results and could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied in any forward-looking statements made by, or on behalf of, us. Readers are cautioned that forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance. All of the forward-looking statements made in this press release are qualified by these cautionary statements. Specific reference is made to the most recent Form 40-F/Annual Information Form on file with the SEC and Canadian provincial securities regulatory authorities for a more detailed discussion of some of the factors underlying forward-looking statements and the risks that may affect Barricks ability to achieve the expectations set forth in the forward-looking statements contained in this press release.

Barrick disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by applicable law.
NEW YORK, July 02, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- WHY: Rosen Law Firm, a global investor rights law firm, continues its investigation of potential securities claims on behalf of shareholders of John Wiley & Sons, Inc. (NYSE: WLY, WLYB) resulting from allegations that Wiley may have issued materially misleading business information to the investing public.



SO WHAT: If you purchased Wiley securities you may be entitled to compensation without payment of any out of pocket fees or costs through a contingency fee arrangement. The Rosen Law Firm is preparing a class action seeking recovery of investor losses.

WHAT TO DO NEXT: To join the prospective class action, go to https://rosenlegal.com/submit-form/?case_id=17186 or call Phillip Kim, Esq. toll-free at 866-767-3653 or email pkim@rosenlegal.com or cases@rosenlegal.com for information on the class action.

WHAT IS THIS ABOUT: On March 9, 2023, Wiley announced its Q3 2023 financial results, in which it disclosed issues at Hindawi, one of its subsidiaries. The Companys CEO stated Our third quarter results and revised full year outlook are clearly below our expectations and While our core business and markets are strong, weve been challenged this year by unpredictable market headwinds and an unplanned publishing pause at Hindawi. It was further announced that Research was down 4% as reported, or down 2% at constant currency and excluding acquisitions, primarily due to a pause in the Hindawi special issues publishing program. The program was suspended temporarily due to the presence in certain special issues of compromised articles. As a result, Hindawi revenue declined $9 million vs. prior year, offsetting growth in other open access publishing programs.

On this news, the price of Wiley Class A stock price declined by $7.55, or 17.35%, to close at $35.96 per share on March 9, 2023.

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. 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 firms attorneys have been recognized by Lawdragon and Super Lawyers.

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

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Albemarle County is trying to stem a rising tide of opioid overdoses and deaths: distributing the life-saving drug naloxone and training school and public safety staff to use it.

Last year alone, naloxone was administered more than 700 times  a testament to the immediate need for the drug and the significant uptick in overdoses.

In the past few years, opioid overdose and death have only been increasing nationwide, and Albemarle County is no exception.

The county has seen a significant increase in fatal opioid overdoses, compounded by the increased presence of fentanyl in the drug supply. In 2021, the most recent year with data, there were 2,622 overdose deaths in the commonwealth of Virginia, up roughly 25% over the year before, according to the Virginia Department of Health. Of that 2,622, 18 of those overdose deaths occurred in Albemarle County.

Naloxone, commonly known by the brand name Narcan, can prevent overdose deaths by reversing the effects of opioids on the body. It can be easily administered through a nasal spray and is safe to give, even if someone has not consumed opiates.

Albemarle County recently expanded staff access to naloxone and implemented training programs among staff members in public safety departments and Albemarle County Public Schools.

For first responders, it is enormous to be able to administer the drug, buying time to transport an individual to a hospital for immediate and longer-term treatment, said Lynn Kohan, medical director of the University of Virginias Pain Management Center.

The more prevalent naloxone is, the better, Kohan said. It gives everyone a chance to save a life.

In April, Albemarle police officers began carrying two nasal spray doses of naloxone in their patrol cars response kits and received training to recognize an overdose and administer the drug. Within 24 hours of implementing the program in the police department, two separate incidents occured where officers administered naloxone to individuals, saving their lives.

The fire department, which already equips emergency vehicles with naloxone, has begun distributing Leave Behind naloxone kits to individuals who have called 911 for someone experiencing a substance use crisis.

Were bridging the gap between the emergency response and the access to ongoing support, said Titus Castens, Albemarle County assistant fire marshal who works in the community risk and resilience division. We recognize that theres going to be relapses, we recognize that these individuals need more support. Leave-Behind kits will allow family members or close individuals to administer naloxone more quickly than it takes for first responders to arrive on the scene.

The kits contain two nasal spray doses of naloxone, fentanyl test strips and a pair of gloves. Castens said the department will begin to distribute kits at community fairs in addition to offering kits to households and individuals.

The fire department is conducting a data analysis to identify hot spots of overdoses in the area, targeting these spots with increased access to naloxone and training for staff of libraries and businesses.

Albemarle County Public Schools also recently expanded access to naloxone kits across the district, part of an effort to address overdoses among teenagers. Castens said there have been several overdoses in younger people as substance use becomes more prevalent at their age. As a result, the district trained school nurses in the administration of naloxone and will expand training to other school employees in the upcoming school year.

In 2022, Albemarle County Fire Rescue distributed naloxone 761 times. Individuals states improved in about half the cases, indicating previous use of opioids, Castens said. Those numbers represented a sharp uptick from previous years, part of an upward trend beginning in 2020.

Were seeing a big decrease in overdoses from actual opioid prescriptions, but a huge increase in overdoses from illicit substances like fentanyl, Kohan said. Fentanyl is a powerful synthetically made opioid that is often mixed with other drugs and unknowingly consumed.

The good news: Naloxone can reverse the effects of a fentanyl-related overdose, although it might take repeated doses to do so.

Naloxone acts immediately to reverse the effects of an overdose on the body. An overdose occurs when opioids saturate opioid receptors in the body, some of which occur in the part of the brain that controls breathing.

Naloxone unsticks narcotics from the opioid receptors, reversing the effects of an overdose and allowing someone to breathe again, Kohan said.

In the commonwealth, individuals can access naloxone with or without a prescription from a medical provider. The Food and Drug Administration also recently approved Narcan for over-the-counter sale, although Kohan said her biggest worry is how affordable it will be in pharmacies.

The next step for addressing the overdose crisis is expanding long-term treatment programs and prescription of buprenorphine, a medication used to treat addiction, Kohan said. She said she hopes the two will go hand in hand to first address overdose and then link patients to treatment.

Opioid use disorder is a disease, and people deserve treatment, Kohan said. Naloxone can really get them a chance to live in order to receive that treatment.
Flashing police lights are a common sight all along Interstate 75 in rural south Georgia. On one recent afternoon in Turner County, sheriffs deputies pulled over a vehicle heading northbound and another just a few miles up on the opposite side of the interstate. In the small community of Norman Park, an officer was clocking cars near the edge of town. In Warwick to the north, a police cruiser waited in the middle of a five-lane throughway.These places have one thing in common: They issue a lot of tickets, and they finance their governments by doing it. Like many other rural jurisdictions, towns in south Georgia have suffered decades of a slow economic decline thats left them without much of a tax base. But they see a large amount of through-traffic from semi-trucks and Florida-bound tourists. And theyve grown reliant on ticketing them to meet their expenses. Georgia is a classic example of a place where you have these inextricable ties between the police, the town and the court, says Lisa Foster, co-director of the Fines and Fees Justice Center. Any city thats short on revenue is going to be tempted to use the judicial system.This is by no means just a Georgia phenomenon. Throughout the country, smaller cities and towns generate major dollars from different types of fines, sometimes accounting for more than half of their revenues. Some places are known for being speed traps. Others prop up their budgets using traffic cameras, parking citations or code enforcement violations.To get a picture of just how much cities, towns and counties rely on fines and fees,conducted the largest national analysis to date of fine revenues and the extent to which they fund budgets, compiling data from thousands of annual financial audits and reports filed to state agencies.What we found is that in hundreds of jurisdictions throughout the country, fines are used to fund a significant portion of the budget. They account for more than 10 percent of general fund revenues in nearly 600 U.S. jurisdictions . In at least 284 of those governments, its more than 20 percent. Some other governments allocate the revenues outside the general fund. When fine and forfeiture revenues in all funds are considered, more than 720 localities reported annual revenues exceeding $100 for every adult resident. And those numbers would be even higher if they included communities reporting less than $100,000 in fines; those jurisdictions were excluded from our analysis. In some places, traffic fine revenue actually exceeds limits outlined in state laws.High fine communities can be found in just about every state, but they tend to be concentrated in certain parts of the country. Rural areas with high poverty have especially high rates. So do places with very limited tax bases or those with independent local municipal courts. And these jurisdictions are far more common in the South than elsewhere. The states that stood out in our analysis were Arkansas, Georgia, Louisiana, Oklahoma and Texas, plus New York. Fines and forfeitures accounted for more than one-fifth of general revenues in the most recent financial audits for 52 localities in Georgia, and 49 in Louisiana . By contrast, several Northeastern states with high property taxes had no localities exceeding the 10 percent threshold.Five years ago, the issue of excessive fines gained national notoriety following the revelation that Ferguson, Mo., and other St. Louis-area municipalities generated outsized revenues from fines and court fees. Since then, advocacy groups and state lawmakers have stepped up political pressure to address what they say are excessive fees. Multiple lawsuits in several states are challenging municipal court practices and fines, and some cities are beginning to revisit their fines with an eye toward social justice and equity for low-income residents and communities of color. On top of those legal and political pressures are other looming changes, including new advancements in driving technology, that could one day drastically limit the money that cities can take in through speeding tickets and other violations. The fact is that fines and fees are a volatile revenue source, and the towns that rely the most on them face an increasingly uncertain fiscal future.Finesand the revenues they yieldhave mounted in recent decades as the prospect of raising taxes has proved politically difficult in many places. Theres a culture thats built up over time of tolerance and normalization of this idea that courts are there for revenue generation, Foster says. There are no hard numbers on how much fine revenues have climbed nationally, although Census Bureau survey data suggests a significant national increase.Fines and fees are not the same thing. Fines serve as punishment for committing offenses; fees are levied to support operational expenses. Different states charge fees for mandatory services such as drug tests, monthly parole meetings or even for a jury trial. Failure to pay those fees can result in interest charges and other surcharges. While both fines and fees have been on the rise in recent years, its the fees that have swelled the most, and these days theyre often used to fund parts of government that have little to do with the justice system itself. Georgia, for example, levies about a dozen fees, and theyre used to pay for a state police motorcycle unit, a brain and spinal injury trust fund, and a police supplemental retirement fund.For the vast majority of local governments, fines arent a significant funding source, amounting to less than 5 percent of general revenues. Some states dont allow their cities and counties to retain much money from traffic tickets. The North Carolina Constitution, for instance, requires that fine revenues be appropriated for public schools.But in other places, a dependence on fine and fee money is simply built into the budget. Louisiana is one of those. In many of its small towns, state highways cut right through central business districts. It would be malfeasance if they didnt aggressively patrol some of these stretches of highways through towns, says John Gallagher, head of the Louisiana Municipal Association. He points out that local governments dont collect nearly as much in property taxes as similar communities in other states, and many homesteads are fully exempt. Local governments collect sales taxes, but not much commerce exists in rural parts of the state, and the legislature has enacted numerous exemptions for those as well.Robert Scott, president of the Public Affairs Research Council of Louisiana, agrees that weakened tax bases are contributing to the problem, but says it ultimately stems from localities ingrained habits. If I had to point to one reason why this happens, it's because culturally you have [local] agencies whove grown dependent on these types of revenue sources, he says. They dont want to let it go.In some extreme cases, local budgets are funded almost exclusively by fines. Georgetown, La., a village of fewer than 500 residents, was the most reliant on fines of all reviewed nationally. Its 2018 financial statement reported nearly $500,000 in fines, accounting for 92 percent of general revenues. Not far behind is Fenton, La., which reported more than $1.2 million in fines, or 91 percent of 2017 general fund revenues. Such situations can be ripe for scandal: A Louisiana state audit last year found that some cash payments for citations in Fenton were never deposited in the villages bank account and alleged improper compensation to city officials.Actions taken by the legislature in Louisiana and in other states have likely compounded the issue. According to Census survey data, in states with the most fine-reliant jurisdictions, localities incurred notably steeper state funding cuts than elsewhere nationally over the decade. Many of those same states have also enacted numerous revenue restrictions for cities over the years. In fact, according to research from the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, in states that implemented caps or limits on local property taxes starting in the late 1970s, fees and charges substantially increased as a share of all revenues that local governments raised.The mostly rural towns that collect high fine revenues have typically weathered decades of economic decline. Jurisdictions thatreviewed where fines and forfeitures accounted for more than 20 percent of general revenues recorded a median household income of just $39,594.In Warwick, the median income is only $22,000, and an estimated 37 percent of residents live in poverty. Its town center lacks any significant commercial activity. Over the years, Warwick has earned a reputation as a speed trap. Its latest financial audit shows fines and forfeitures accounted for three-quarters of general revenues. Mayor Juanita Kinchen says the city recently reduced speeding fines and would adapt to any future declines in citation revenues. The city has experienced economic growth, recession and even depression, she emailed in response to questions from. We are working to not rely on fines and we will continue to work on this.Tourist destinations, too, register substantial fine revenues. Only a few hundred people reside in Morrison, Colo., but tens of thousands visit a speedway and the nearby Red Rocks Amphitheatre on busy days. Fines and forfeitures for fiscal 2017 totaled nearly $1.2 million, while the town spent roughly the same amount on public safety. Town Manager Kara Winters says the town board has emphasized traffic enforcement as some concertgoers speed or drive drunk.identified at least 123 other jurisdictions across the country that collect more than $500 a year for every adult resident, suggesting its mostly out-of-towners who bear the brunt of the fines.In some communities, traffic cameras further generate substantial revenues. Suburban Maryland has a significantly high number of such places. In Seat Pleasant, Md., a Washington, D.C., suburb of 4,800 residents, fines account for about 48 percent of city revenuesand much of that comes from speed and red-light cameras. Police Chief Devan Martin says the cameras were installed in response to traffic deaths, and theyve helped reduce accidents along two congested state highways running through the community. The purpose of the program is not for the potential financial revenue thats generated from it, he insists. Our only purpose is to curb behavior to improve traffic safety and public safety. Part of Seat Pleasants $3.7 million in total fine collections was paid to the camera vendor, as is the case in other cities. Still, the citys latest budget proposal states the deployment of an additional mobile photo radar camera will increase photo enforcement revenue. The revenues help fund public safety resources that other similarly sized towns dont enjoy: 24 full-time sworn officers, including a three-person dedicated automated speed enforcement unit and a drone aviation unit.While the issue of excessive court fines and fees isnt new, it was only in 2014, with the civil unrest in Ferguson, Mo., following the police shooting of Michael Brown, that the practice started drawing considerable interest around the country. A Department of Justice investigation found that Ferguson police prioritized generating revenue from writing tickets.Missouri lawmakers responded by lowering, to 20 percent, a cap on the proportion of general operating revenues that could come from minor traffic violations. Missouri Attorney General Eric Schmitt, who sponsored the bill as a state senator, views it as a national model. There is an important oversight role in making sure that you dont have practices that are abusive, discriminatory, treat people as ATMs, or have a practice of taxation by citation, he says. Any cities exceeding the cap must either turn their excess revenue over to the state or else face what Schmitt calls a death penalty, in that citizens may vote to dissolve their governments. The new lower cap has contributed to drastic reductions in money localities are taking in through fines and fees. Municipal court disbursements fell 39 percent statewide between fiscal 2015 and last year, according to data from the Missouri Office of State Courts Administrator. In Ferguson, fine and forfeiture revenues plummeted from more than $2 million to about $300,000.A few other states, including Georgia, Maryland and Texas, also maintain revenue caps. But some cities still exceed them. In their most recent financial addendums, at least five jurisdictions in Missouri reported fines and court revenue surpassing the 20 percent threshold, remitting the excess to the state. Policy advocates express concerns that jurisdictions may respond to caps with budgetary workarounds. One Missouri community, Pagedale, drastically increased citations for code enforcement and other municipal ordinances after the state imposed the new lower cap on traffic fines, so lawmakers approved another bill limiting revenue from non-moving violations.At the heart of the debate over fines and fees is the concern that law enforcement officers may feel pressured to write more tickets just to raise revenues. A special prosecutor investigating Ridgetop, Tenn., earlier this year found an improper and illegal ticket quota. In April, a municipal clerk in the small town of Mount Enterprise, Texas, was similarly convicted of pushing a ticket quota. Revenue-generating efforts may hinder policing in other ways. A 2018 study published in Urban Affairs Review found police in cities relying more on fines and forfeitures solved violent crimes at significantly lower rates than others. The police end up losing the connectivity to get information to solve problems in the community, says Ronal Serpas, a criminology professor at Loyola University in New Orleans and a former police chief in that city.One rural town in Georgia may even have established a new police department last year largely to raise revenue. According to documents obtained byvia a public records request, the state Department of Public Safety received a letter from a local probate judge alleging the small city of Cecil had created a police department and a local court in part to help pay off a debt owed for sewer services. Since the inception of their police department and municipal court, my office has been flooded with calls and visits by individuals who, in my opinion, have legitimate complaints, the judge wrote. Georgia law limits speeding tickets to 35 percent of a local law enforcement agencys budget (excluding school zone violations and citations exceeding 20 mph over the posted limit). A subsequent investigation by the state found such speeding citations issued over just four months amounted to 150 percent of the total police budget, so Georgia temporarily suspended Cecils permit to operate speed radar guns. Officials in Cecil and most other localities did not respond to requests for comment.Fines and fees are a significant issue in some big cities as well, although for different reasons. With much larger budgets, fines generally arent a major source of revenues for larger cities. Among the 50 biggest cities in the U.S., fines and forfeitures account for a median of just 2 percent of general revenues.Instead, the main concern in larger cities is that the people facing finesand the resulting hefty court costsare often those who can least afford it. Research consistently shows that poorer households and residents of color are disproportionately impacted by fines and fees. Thats led to a small but growing number of cities that are reevaluating the way they structure and impose fines. One such city is Chicago, under an initiative led by City Clerk Anna Valencia that includes officials representing city departments and community groups. Mayor Lori Lightfoot has backed a few of the groups initial recommendations, such as no longer doubling vehicle sticker tickets for failing to pay promptly. We need to find other revenue sources that arent burdening our most vulnerable population, Valencia says.As they have elsewhere, fines and fees in Chicago have gradually ticked up over the years. There was an unintended consequence of raising a fine or fee a little here or there, Valencia says. In 2018, fines and forfeitures accounted for nearly 11 percent of the citys general fundthe highest of any of the nations 50 biggest citiesand about 5 percent of total governmental revenues.San Francisco enacted major changes last year, abolishing fees for jail booking, monitoring and probation. In Kitsap County, Wash., just outside Seattle, hundreds lined up at a courthouse earlier this year for reconsideration day, when individuals were allowed to request that court debts be forgiven or reduced.Traffic violations are civil infractions in most places, but not everywhere. In Georgia, they are criminal misdemeanors, carrying fines of up to $1,000. This comes as a shock to many tourists passing through. Motorists who cant pay often end up on probation, incurring monthly supervision fees in addition to their fine.Some of the most problematic practices are found in small municipal courts with little state oversight. New York is home to approximately 1,300 town and village courts that, unlike the larger state-run city courts, keep most of their revenues from fines and fees. That means those judges have an incentive to show that their courts earn back the money spent on them, given that theyre funded almost entirely by the locality, says Amelia Starr, chair of the Fund for Modern Courts, which promotes access to justice in New York state courts. Almost any state that has courts that generate money for their locality in small towns is vulnerable to exactly these kinds of pressures, Starr says.This arrangement carries serious ramifications for those facing charges. A Fund for Modern Courts survey of defense attorneys and public defenders reported that courts in 43 New York counties, or most of the state, rarely or never took a defendants ability to pay into account before issuing a bench warrant.Similarly, the legal advocacy group ArchCity Defenders has called for the consolidation of nearly 80 municipal courts operating throughout St. Louis County, Mo. Blake Strode, the groups executive director, says that consolidating them under the purview of the state court would yield more consistency and professionalization. People are in court time and time again for what are really crimes of poverty, Strode says. We have to rethink whether the court is the right institution to serve those people.In the small towns that are most dependent on fine revenue, though, the real question isnt about social equity or the burden borne by low-income residents. Its about the risky fiscal future of relying on fines.The U.S. Supreme Court ruled in February that the Constitutions ban on excessive fines applies to states and localities. It didnt attempt to define excessive, but provided clues, citing the Magna Cartas requirement that sanctions be proportioned to the wrong and not so large as to deprive [an offender] of his livelihood. While the decision itself doesnt mandate any changes, its expected to provoke future legal challenges and provide ammunition for defense attorneys. Another case in Doraville, Ga., makes a constitutional challenge to what it claims is the citys practice of using police and the courts to generate revenue. A judge has denied the citys motion to dismiss the case.Several states considered outlawing traffic enforcement cameras this year. Texas banned red-light cameras, while Ohio lawmakers cut state funding for localities based on the amount of camera fines they collect. After years of steady expansion, the number of communities with speed cameras plateaued about four years ago, while the number of red-light cameras is sharply declining, according to statistics from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.Rethinking fines and fees could further emerge as the next broad step in the criminal justice reform movement, with supporters ranging from the libertarian Koch brothers to the ACLU. Theres absolutely a political risk for long-term reliance on these sorts of revenues, says David Eichenthal, who works with cities on the issue for the consulting firm PFM. Theres a movement both in terms of advocacy going on at the local level, litigation in the federal courts, and a series of post-Ferguson statewide task forces that started to look at these issues.New technologies also are threatening the fiscal future of jurisdictions that rely on fines. Speed-trap alerts that warn drivers about possible enforcement ahead have long been a feature on the Waze navigation app, and they were added to the popular Google Maps app earlier this year. One proposed bill in the U.S. Senate would limit maximum tractor-trailer speeds to 65 mph using software that most trucks are already equipped with. Further into the future, traffic fines could take a major hit with the proliferation of autonomous vehicles that dont park illegally and never exceed the speed limit. Indeed, starting in 2022, vehicles sold in the European Union will be required to use technology that automatically restricts speed using GPS or cameras that recognize posted limits.Is there a right way for cities to budget for fines? Theres no national standard for how much local governments should be collecting, and no consistent way those revenues are reported. Audited financials may or may not include related fees, and some may include revenues remitted to states. Rules for reporting these revenues arent always enforced. West Virginia, for instance, directs localities to conduct annual audits, but several we reviewed hadnt actually completed one in the past five years. For those reasons, our findings undoubtedly represent low estimates, as we excluded many governments without available audits and those that dont report separate line items for fines.The way governments allocate fine revenue also matters. The majority deposit it into their general fund, but many in Oklahoma, for example, route the money to separate police or public safety funds. Thats a mistake, says Michael Makowsky, an economics professor at Clemson University in South Carolina. You want to separate officer incentives from the revenues they generate, he says. One solution he proposes is to route fines and fees to state governments. States would then redistribute all the funds back as block grants based on population or other metrics, effectively removing incentives to issue tickets.Many of the small rural and suburban towns facing financial woes find themselves in a much different situation than when they originally incorporated. In Warwick and similar cities, fines now account for more revenue than taxes. Some small towns may decide they need to disband their police departments, as Oak Park, Ga., did earlier this year. Others may have to consider unincorporating or merging with neighboring municipalities, says Jay Shambaugh, director of The Hamilton Project, a Brookings Institution policy initiative. Unlike larger cities, they have few services left to cut. They either need to find a way to avoid the other revenue constraints, Shambaugh says, or they eventually are faced with the decision whether it makes sense to fund themselves at all.Terrell Hudson has served on the county commission in rural Dooly County, Ga., for more than three decades. The county, he says, has never had a budget that wasnt tight. Only around 14,000 people reside there, and the millage rate already ranks among the highest in the state. Dooly County reported $4 million in fines and forfeitures in fiscal 2018, accounting for just over a quarter of its general fund revenues. County law enforcement officers patrol Interstate 75, and when theres a backup, generally on weekends or in bad weather, police direct traffic along the state road that runs parallel. The fines and fees also help fund two full-time ambulance crews, another costly line-item for a limited budget. The system will never pay its own weight, Hudson says. That is part of what our government is supposed to provide to keep people safe.Hudson views the revenue cap on fines and property tax exemptions enacted by the legislature as handcuffing Georgias rural localities. With the requirements that state has put on cities and counties, he says, at some point in time, were not going to be able to afford these smaller cities or towns.
Alpha Tauri to move to England says Tost

Red Bull's second Formula 1 team, Italian-based Alpha Tauri, will operate out of a UK facility in future.

Nyck de Vries, Canadian GP 2023

 Red Bull

That is the news from Franz Tost, who at the age of 67 will be replaced as the Faenza-based outfit's team boss by Laurent Mekies (Ferrari) and Peter Bayer (FIA) from 2024.

When long-time boss Tost was asked what he'll do next year, the Austrian told Kleine Zeitung newspaper: "That's not fixed yet.

"Maybe I'll stay in an advisory role."

Other Alpha Tauri employees, however, may currently be weighing up a move from Italy to the UK, where most of the other F1 teams are headquartered - including Red Bull Racing at Milton-Keynes.

"We are currently building a larger facility in England," Tost revealed, "but without giving up the Faenza site.

"However, we want to give every employee the opportunity to work where it suits them best. You can buy almost anything in Formula 1 except time."

As for Tost, his current goal is preparing Alpha Tauri - which will also have a new name next year - for the transition to a new era.

"It was without a doubt the greatest part of my life," he said. "And for me it is now important to hand over the team properly, but above all in a way that promises success.

"It is up to us to provide the drivers with a suitable car so they can drive into the points."
F1 drivers can cope with hectic summer schedule

Formula 1 drivers say they can cope with the sport's hectic modern calendars.

Lance Stroll, Canadian GP 2023

 Aston Martin Racing

This weekend, the circus is in Austria - but F1 moves immediately on to Silverstone for the British GP before taking a single weekend's break.

After that, though, more back-to-backs in Hungary and Spa will complete a period in which Formula 1 drivers contested no fewer than four races in just five weeks.

"The most difficult are these sprint races because all the sessions count," Alpine's Esteban Ocon told the Belgian broadcaster RTBF. "But rest is very important.

"You have to know how to manage between races - recover well, train and maintain a healthy lifestyle."

Seven time world champion Lewis Hamilton agrees.

"The challenge is not only to manage the races, but also to combine it with the obligations that we have on the side," said the Mercedes driver.

"I was in Germany on Wednesday and in Spain on Saturday for a commercial commitment," Hamilton revealed. "And you have to train twice a day to do all this.

"Eating well, resting well, giving yourself mental rest is very difficult too, especially when you travel so much. So I try to take naps whenever I can.

"When everyone else is used to talking on the plane, I go to sleep," he smiled.

F1's oldest driver Fernando Alonso, however, said the situation is much more difficult for the sport's harder working characters - like the mechanics.

"It's a challenge," he said of the back-to-back period F1 is in at the moment, "but we have all the comforts.

"We are taken care of, we have good hotels, good food and we get on the plane quickly so that by Sunday evening we are already at home.

"It's a lot more stressful for the mechanics who have to prepare everything for the following weekend. It's obviously an intense month for our sport but the drivers are lucky."

(GMM)
Mercedes built F1 car for Brad Pitt film

Mercedes is at the centre of the new Hollywood film production based on Formula 1.

Lewis Hamilton, Canadian GP 2023

 Mercedes-Benz Grand Prix Ltd.

It is well known that the producers of the Top Gun reboot, in collaboration with American movie star Brad Pitt, are set to kick off filming shortly.

Lewis Hamilton's film company is also involved, as is his Mercedes team.

"We helped them build the car," team boss Toto Wolff revealed to Osterreich newspaper on the sidelines of the Austrian GP.

"It's a Formula 2 car but we made it look exactly like an F1 car," he said.

And as F1 prepares to move onto Silverstone for the British GP next weekend, Wolff also revealed that a dedicated film set will also be on site.

"We'll have some fun there," Wolff said.

On the actual track, however, Wolff admitted he has been disappointed with Mercedes' real-life F1 car so far in Austria.

"After Montreal, we actually thought we'd be closer to Red Bull," he lamented.

(GMM)
Rena Murshud

Despite the rise of crowds, riots and protests against the incumbent government, the Macron authority in France is quite calm. In the country, the murder of a 17-year-old Muslim boy by the police was not perceived unequivocally, even many state institutions of the country opposed Macron and held a protest.

It is interesting that the president of France, who allows hundreds of immigrants to his country every year in order to increase the country's population, on the other hand, ignores the violation of human rights, especially crimes that occur on the basis of racism. However, it is a very gruesome fact that this characteristic is typical not only for France, but also for other European countries.

On the other hand, growing protests in France pose a serious threat to Macron's rule. The question is whether this is the end of Macron's reign or it is simply another major revolt in French history.

"I do not believe that the ongoing protests will have a serious impact on Macron's rule. Because such protests are considered normal for Macron. He is a kind of person who is committed to his own political course from the very beginning.

Besides, if you look at history, many protests were brutally suppressed. In this regard, it is clear that, for Macron, the current line of conduct will not lead to the fall of the fifth republic. One way or another, contrary to his statements, he always ignored human rights."

This was told by Russian military expert Aleksandr Artamonov in a comment on the racial incident in France for Azernews. He added that Western and European institutions turn a blind eye to what is happening in France as they normally have such a line of behavior. According to Artmanov, if there is any doubt he can bring more evidence for instance, on the north of Italy where there is a special corps (EuroGendFor) to suppress the uprising in Europe, in which a woman is the commander of the said forces.

Identifying major functions of the French police, the expert said that there are several types of repressive police such as the SRS, the general police unit, if necessary the army and of course the gendarmerie. All of them have the right to suppress popular uprisings. Therefore, unfortunately, no one will interfere in such matters.

The Russian pundit touched upon the lack of attention by institutions in Europe to the current processes.

"I have not seen a single example where European institutions would interfere in what is happening in France. Moreover, European countries are neutral about when Muslims are killed. They prefer not to protect them and turn a blind eye to everything that happens. They react only when necessary. But at the same time they declare that they are for general equality. I want to remind you that, Angela Merkel said that the multi-cultural society has failed and this idea is no longer European," the pundit opined.

Artmanov also spoke about the largest colonies simultaneously present in France: "Armenians, since the post-war era, actually consider France as their second homeland, along with the United States. There are a lot of banks and financial organizations controlled by the Armenian lobby. In this regard, it is clear that the French authorities are biased towards Muslims, and the Armenians are always more than well and stubbornly protected. Of course, nothing can be done about this," he said.

Touching on the racist position of France, the Russian military expert said that in French-Azerbaijani relations, official Paris treats Azerbaijanis as Muslims in general.

"Unfortunately, France has a strong colonial tradition, they consider the Muslim peoples (Middle East, Lebanon, North Africa) as their potential subordinates. Therefore, for France, nothing supernatural happens in relation to the Azerbaijanis. As for France's policy towards Azerbaijan in the South Caucasus, it can be noted that this fits into the overall policy of the US Congress and NATO. It is not pleasant to listen to this, but at the moment some powers in the USA and the French are pushing Armenia to deepen the conflict with Azerbaijan," he added.

Having concluded his comment, the Russian military expert spoke of the Islamophobic position of France and noted that although the local authorities try to take advantage of the Muslim community in order to increase the population in the country, in the end, the strong hatred of Islam within the authorities complicates the issue. As a result, it also casts a serious shadow on the government's concept of justice and truth.
Henry came to Oregon State University in 1969 after a stint in the Air Force, then helped form what is today the Linn Benton NAACP, working with numerous agencies, public and private, on issues such as affirmative action, education, social justice and legislative action.

He wanted to focus on where the needs were, current Linn Benton NAACP leader Jason J. Dorsette said of Henry in 2021 interview. He carved out time to do that, and as a civically engaged leader, a political leader and an educator, he connected with local leaders and local education to engage with those people and start there.
Fiifi Coleman to honour late Prof. Ama Atta Aidoo with stage play

Kofi Duah Showbiz News Jul - 01 - 2023 , 09:51

In appreciation of the works and in memory of the late poet, playwright and author, Ama Ata Aidoo, actor Fiifi Coleman is set to stage a play at the National Theatre on Saturday, July 29.

The play titled, "Dilemma of a Ghost" is one the popular plays by the renowned and astute author who passed on in May this year.

The cast for the 4pm and 8 pm play include Roselyn Feli, Adjetey Anang, Naa Ashorkor, Fiifi Coleman, Fred Amugi, Brew Riverson Junior, and members of Abibikroma Drama group among others.

In a post interview with Graphic Showbiz after a press conference to announce the upcoming event at his office in East Legon yesterday, June 30, Fiifi said it was quite unfortunate that the play was being staged at a time Professor Ama Ata Aidoo is no more.  I wish she were alive to witness this play by these awesome actors. Professor was one person I personally admired and as an actor who has featured on Dilemma of a Ghost more than twice on stage, it was best to assemble these great actors to do something to honour Prof. Ama Atta Aidoo. I contacted her family and they gave me the go ahead. We are currently rehearsing for the big day that is July 29.

" I will urge all Ghanaians to come in their numbers to watch this beautiful play. At least, if for nothing at all, Brew Riverson Junior who has been missing on the acting scene for a long time will be on stage," he said.





Read also: Kaywa, Mr. Drew & matters arising
The Ghana Military Rank Structure

Brig Gen Dan Frimpong (Rtd) Opinion Jul - 02 - 2023 , 19:42

Nana continues to demand of me the education of the civilian populace on the Ghana military rank structure. The focus of this article is on the rank structure in the Ghana Armed Forces. This is basically modeled on British lines.

On commission after meeting all the requirements over a period of study, the trainee (Officer Cadet) becomes a Second-Lieutenant in the Army, or equivalent of Acting Sub-Lieutenant in the Navy, and Pilot Officer in the Air Force.

The officer ranks go from Second Lieutenant  Lieutenant- Captain as Junior Officers. Generally, subject to passing Promotion Examinations, it takes six years to become a Captain, and an additional five years to become a Major (eleven years in all).

Types of Commission

There are two kinds of courses/commission for officers. There is the Regular Career Course (RCC) for officers who train to become professional career officers.

There is a second category of Short Service Commissioned (SSC) officers. These are professionals like doctors, lawyers, teachers, architects, engineers etc. They train to become officers to pursue their original course of study as military doctors, educationists, lawyers etc. They are commissioned either as lieutenants or captains, depending on the antedate given for the duration of their courses in the university.

There is also a Special Duties (SD) Course which is run together with the Short Service Commission, hence SSC/SD Course. The SD Course is for Non-commissioned officers who are commissioned into specific areas of specialisation, e.g. Weapons, Quartermaster (Logistics) and Drill and Duties. They do not go beyond the rank of Major.

From Captain, the officer moves into the Senior officer zone from Major- Lieutenant Colonel  Colonel. Promotion examinations are taken along the line for advancement or otherwise. It took me twenty-six (26) years to become a Colonel.

From Colonel, an officer advances to the zone of Generals. The General rank from Colonel is Brigadier-General (One Star)  Major-General (Two-Star)  Lieutenant-General (Three-Star) and General-of-the-Army (Four-Star). There are Naval and Air Force equivalents which space will not allow me to discuss for now.

Other Ranks (Non-Commissioned Officers) in Ghana Military

With the Other Ranks, on passing out from the Training Centre the recruit starts as a Private. Progression from Private is to Lance-Corporal-Corporal-Sergeant- Staff Sergeant- Warrant Officer Class 2-Warrant Officer Class One. In recent times, some Americanisms have been added to the British ranks in Ghana. Hence there are Master Warrant Officers, Chief Warrant Officers and Service Warrant Officers etc we the older generation are trying to understand.

Appointments

The Ghana Armed Forces is made up of three Services; the Army, Navy and the Air Force.

Each of them is headed by a Service Chief. The Army has the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), the Navy the Chief of Naval Staff (CNS) and the Air Force the Chief of Air Staff (CAS).

They are all two-star Generals and equivalent. The Chief of the Defence Staff CDS) is the head of the Armed Forces of Ghana and is a three-Star General.

Discussion

Before independence in 1957, we had the Gold Coast Regiments. At independence, they became the Ghana Army. On 29th July 1959, an Act of Parliament laid by Osagyefo Dr Kwame Nkrumah established the Ghana Navy. The Ghana Air Force started on 24th July 1959 as a Flying Training School to complement the Army and Navy.

Though highly acknowledged as one of the leading UN Peacekeeping Nations in the world, domestically, the Ghana Armed Forces has a soiled image starting in 1966, when then Col Kotoka (later Lt Gen) and his Brigade Major, (later Lt Gen A.A. Afrifa,) together with Police Commissioners Harley and Deku, in collusion with foreign powers, overthrew Ghanas First Republic.

In 1972, Col (later Gen) I.K. Acheampong overthrew Dr K.A. Busias Second Republic in a bloodless coup.

In 1979, a mutiny by junior ranks resulted in the overthrow of Lt Gen Akuffo's SMC 2 and the installation of Flt Lt Rawlings as the Chairman of the Armed Forces Revolutionary Council, which later made way for the installation of President Limanns Third Republic.

The June 4th 1979 together with 31st December 1981 coup marked the bloodiest period in Ghanas history.

Indeed, at the time of writing 30th June 2023, the 41st Anniversary Church Service was held at the Holy Spirit Cathedral, Accra to commemorate the 41st anniversary of the abduction, murder and attempted incineration of three High Court judges and a retired Army Major.

In the field of international Peacekeeping, Ghana has done remarkably well. Lt Gen E.A. Erskine was the first African to command a UN Force. In 1978, he established the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL).

Later the Force was commanded by another Ghanaian Lt Gen Seth Obeng. There have been many Deputy Force Commanders as well as top Staff appointments.

The Ghana Armed Forces continues to play a major role in Internal Security in support of the Police.

Leadership, lead! Fellow Ghanaians, WAKE UP!

The writer is a former CEO, African Peace Support Trainers Association, Nairobi, Kenya and Council Chairman, Family Health University College, Accra
Dutch King apologises for countrys role in slavery

International News Jul - 01 - 2023 , 22:03

The King of the Netherlands has formally apologised for his country's role in the slave trade, saying he felt "personally and intensely" affected.

The country became a major colonial power after the 17th Century, holding territories across the globe, and Dutch slave traders trafficked more than 600,000 people.

King Willem-Alexander on Saturday called the practice a "horror".

The royal family did nothing to stop it, he said.

He was speaking at an event marking the 160th anniversary of the abolition of slavery in the country - it was unclear ahead of the event whether the King would apologise for the Royal Family's role in the practice.

In June, a new study revealed that Dutch rulers received the equivalent of 545m ($595m) in today's money between 1675 and 1770 from colonies where slavery was enforced.



During his speech in Amsterdam, King Willem-Alexander conceded that the "monarchs and rulers of the House of Orange took no steps against [slavery]".

"Today I'm standing here in front of you as your King and as part of the government. Today I am apologising myself," he said.

Today, I am asking for forgiveness for the crystal-clear lack of action."

Accompanied by his wife Queen Maxima, the King acknowledged that he could not speak for the entire nation, but he told the crowd that "the vast majority" of Dutch citizens "do support the fight for equality for all people, regardless of colour or cultural background".

"After acknowledgment and apology, we can work together on healing, reconciliation and restoration," the King added.



His speech received cheers from the crowd at the Keti Koti Festival - the country's annual commemoration of the abolition of slavery.



During the 17th Century the Netherlands conquered large swathes of territory in regions that now make up Indonesia, South Africa, Curacao and West Papua, and became a key player in the transatlantic slave trade.





Thousands of people were trafficked from Africa to Dutch colonies in the Caribbean and South America - amounting to around 5% of the entire transatlantic slave trade - before the practice was banned in 1863.





But in the nation of Suriname it continued during a mandatory 10-year transition period, causing untold grief and pain.



The Netherlands generated huge wealth from the slave trade, and in the western province of Holland alone a Dutch Research Council study found that 40% of economic growth between 1738 and 1780 could be attributed to the trade.



Last year, Prime Minister Mark Rutte also apologised for the country's historical role in the slave trade, saying in a speech at the Hague that it must be recognised in "the clearest terms" as "a crime against humanity".



And several Dutch cities, including Amsterdam and Rotterdam, have issued apologies for their role in the trade.

But the country has taken time to address its colonial past, and it was not until 2006 that the history of Dutch slavery was added to the school curriculum.
Cote d'Ivoire joins Ghana for 2023 closed fishing season

Shirley Asiedu-Addo Jul - 02 - 2023 , 12:56

Cote d'Ivoire will simultaneously observe this year's closed fishing season which started July 1. 2023 with Ghana.

Under the auspices of the joint Fisheries Committee for West and Central (FCWC) gulf, joint fishing patrol operations would ensure among others compliance with the closed season.

This is an attempt to ultimately implement a sub regional closed season as part of measures to replenish dwindling fishery stock.

This year's closed season in Ghana started on Saturday July 1 after the Minister of Fisheries and Aquaculture Development, Hawa Koomson symbolically locked up the sea at Elmina.

Togo and Benin are expected to participate in the closed season in 2024.

She said joint implementation of the closed season by Cote d'Ivoire was an indication that her working visit to appeal to the fishery managers had started yielding results.

She appealed to security agencies to work to ensure enforcement of compliance.

She said the livelihood of the three million people and the over 180 fishing communities were being threatened by the continuous dwindling fishery stock.

Mrs Koomson noted that activities of over fishing and over exploitation using illegal unreported and unregulated fishing practices continue to worsen the state saying the closed season is to ensure recovery and rebuilding to prevent collapse of the stocks.

She said the result of a biological survey undertaken in 2022 indicated the fish caught were much more and bigger than in previous years.

Mrs Koomson said the continuous closure of the sea, seven years for the industrial and four years for the artisanal and inshore fleet had shown significant positive impact towards stocks recovery.

She noted for instance that said canoe landings were higher after the closure period and fishes bigger saying it was an indication that the closed season should be implemented for many years to achieve the needed impact.

Watch Fisheries Minister Hawa Koomson locking the sea. No fishing until August 31, 2023. pic.twitter.com/2eWR6ssDQL  GraphicOnline (@Graphicgh) July 2, 2023

Recovery measures

The closed season is part of measures to ensure recovery and rebuilding of the critically low fishery stocks innaccordance with Section 84 of the Fisheries Act 2000, Act 624.



Mrs Koomson thanked stakeholders including fishermen and processors, scientific working bodies, both national and international, civil society organization and security agencies for the support in ensuring successful closed seasons.

The artisanal canoes would be off the sea for one month from July 1 to July 31 while industrial trawlers would be off from July 1 to August 31.

Mrs Koomson said as a way of reducing the economic hardships in the fishing communities, the ministry in collaboration with the Ghana Fisheries Recovery Activity had launched an alternative livelihood support to train 1,350 in employable skills including masonry, dressmaking, electronics among other.

The training she said would be scaled up to include 8,350 beneficiaries and would be supported after the training to set up their businesses.

The Central Regional Minister Justina Marigold Assan, thanked the president for the fishing harbour which had boosted fishing activities further in the area.

Fisheries bank

The Paramount Chief of Elmina, Nana Kwadwo Conduah called for the establishment of a fisheries bank to support those engaged in the fisheries.

Near commotion

Meanwhile there was near chaos when a canoe with suspected illegal fishing gear landed at the harbour after the programme.

Security personnel in an attempt to arrest the canoe operator saw some resistance by some community members which nearly resulted in a clash.

Eventually the police managed to arrest the boat owner.
Policing and by-elections: Sustaining the gains

Dr George Asekere Jul - 01 - 2023 , 12:40

The first by-election under the watch of the Akufo Addo-led NPP government, held at the Ayawaso West Wuogon Constituency in the national capital, left many democracy watchers wondering if Ghanas democracy was on the path of backsliding. In fact, the governments handling of the Emil Short Commission report did not give much hope either.

As noted by scholars, including Anna Vachudova, democratic backsliding does not entirely undermine the electoral mechanism, but it makes elections uncompetitive, erodes the norms of

answerability by loosening constraints of accountability, and weakens trust in democratic institutions.

The unhealthy relationship between the two dominant political parties; the National Democratic Congress, NDC, and the New Patriotic Party (NPP) on election-related issues, their perception about the neutrality or complicity of the Electoral Commission (EC) and the security agencies, especially the Ghana Police Service, are among the things that can serve as seeds of backsliding.

Trust

Fortunately, the by-elections in the Kumawu and Assin North constituencies proved to be the exact opposite of the Ayawaso West Wuogon Constituency by-election. Infact, these latest by-elections have brought renewed hope and trust in many that the ills bedevilling Ghanas electoral politics, including mistrust in the EC, the police service, and the negative phenomenon of

vote buying, can be addressed, albeit, incrementally.

One thing is clear, Ghanas democracy will triumph if institutions operate independently or are given free hands to do so. If the perception of interference in the work of the police is anything to go by, then the government needs commendation for repenting after the Ayawaso by-election. On the other hand, if the police worked in a manner akin to the Amalekite who reported the killing of Saul to King David to gain the favour of the king, then the police service deserves commendation for repenting and giving their best in the latest byelections.

The beautiful thing is that the NDC gracefully congratulated the NPP after the Kumawu by-election, and the NPP did the same after the Assin North by-election. This is in sync with Benjamin Franklins claim that the good we secure for ourselves is precarious and uncertain until it is secured for all of us and incorporated into our common life. His advice to politicians that those who would give up essential liberty to purchase a little temporary safety deserve neither liberty nor safety is deep.

While the recent by-elections have exposed many ills that needed the attention of all to safeguard our democracy, it is critical to celebrate the success of the police, and like Oliver Twist, ask for more.

In the words of Nelson Mandela, safety and security don't just happen, they are the result of collective consensus and public investment. We owe our children, the most vulnerable citizens in our society, a life free of violence and fear. Amid all the challenges faced by the police, perfect internal security may be an illusion, but maximum security is realistic, as demonstrated.

Security

As we commend the Ghana Police Service, it must be noted that for a police service to be effective, it has to earn the trust of the citizens.

The police service is a human institution and so it will be unthinkable to imagine a police service without bad nuts. Such, Ijeona Oluo describe, as those who only scratch the surface, and do not investigate their simplistic opinions about the root cause of crime in our cities and by so doing, deepen the animosity between the police and communities. These the IGP should

continue to address.

The IGP is demonstrating that it is possible for the Ghana Police Service to execute its clearly laid out plans to increase its capacity to work independently and professionally, despite logistical constraints. The determination to sustain training and capacity building, including both short-term and long-term initiatives such as Police Intelligence & Professional Standard Bureau (PIPs) and innovative policing throughdigital means, are modern ways of equipping the men and women in the service with appropriate skills.

The determination by the IGP to increase accountability through swift response to pictorial evidence of unprofessional conduct by police officers recorded by civilians deserves

praise.

The series of engagements between the political parties and the police in the run-up to the recent byelections have yielded positive dividends, and Ghana won.

This is a testimony that our communities, like the political parties, can work with the police to help ensure peace by delineating each other's roles and responsibilities and respecting them.

They can also develop mutually beneficial communication strategies to ensure that conflicting concerns are properly addressed. Also, political parties, especially the NDC and the NPP, should work with the police to create a sustained environment of trust, civil dialogue and engagement.

Finally, Ghanaians will be interested in knowing how suspects arrested for attempting to mar the peace in the Assin North by-elections are prosecuted.

The writer is a lecturer at the Department of Political Science

Education, University of Education,

aWinneba
Dormaahene to A-G, discontinue criminal trial of James Gyakye Quayson [VIDEO]

Biiya Mukusah Ali Politics Jul - 02 - 2023 , 16:42

The Dormaahene, Osagyefo Oseadeeyo Agyemang Badu II, has appealed to the Attorney-General (A-G), Godfred Yeboah Dame, to drop the criminal charges against James Gyakye Quayson, the Member of Parliament-elect for Assin North.

James Gyakye Quayson is facing trial for perjury at the High Court in Accra.

He is facing charges of forgery and perjury in relation to certain alleged offences in the run up to the 2020 Assin North parliamentary election.

He has pleaded not guilty to five counts of forgery of passport or travel certificate, knowingly making a false statutory declaration, perjury and false declaration for office.

It is the case of the prosecution that Mr Quayson allegedly made a false statement to the Passport Office that he did not hold a passport to another country when he applied for a Ghanaian Passport.

In addition, the prosecution has accused Mr Quayson of making a false declaration to the Electoral Commission (EC) to the effect that he (Quayson) did not owe any allegiance to a foreign country when he filed to contest as candidate for the Assin North seat in 2020.

By-election

Quayson used to be a dual citizen with allegiance to Canada and Ghana.

Prior to the 2020 parliamentary election, he had initiated moves with an application to renounce his Canadian citizenship but had not received his renunciation certificate at the time of filing with the EC to contest.

Per the Supreme Court's interpretation of the 1992 Constitution, since Quayson had not received his renunciation certificate, he was still a Canadian citizen at the time he filed with the Electoral Commission to contest the 2020 election, and so he was therefore not qualified.

The 2020 parliamentary election results at Assin North was therefore annulled and the seat was declared vacant.

With his Canadian citizenship renunciation certificate currently in his grip as he received it later in 2020, he was now qualified to contest and so the NDC gave him the nod to re-contest. He won the by-election against the New Patriotic Partys Charles Opoku and now set to be sworn in as MP for Assin North.

Perjury case

However, the charges of forgery and perjury in relation to certain alleged offences in the run up to the 2020 Assin North parliamentary election are still pending.

Related article: Quayson perjury trial adjourned to July 4

Dormaahenes appeal

Graphic Online's Biiya Mukusah Ali reports that speaking at the Bono, Bono East, Ahafo and Western North regional version of the Professor John Evans Atta Mills Commemorative Lecture in Sunyani on Saturday [July 1, 2023], the Dormaahene made the appeal for the A-G to drop the criminal charges against Quayson. [Watch the video attached below]

As a matter of urgency, I [Dormaahene] am appealing to the President of the Republic [Akufo-Addo], if he has any role to play, that trial should be aborted, and the Attorney-General should as a matter of urgency file a nolle Prosequi to end that particular decision" and abort the criminal case against Mr Quayson, the Dormaahene said.

Insisting that it was needless for the A-G to continue the case, after the chiefs and people of the Assin North constituency re-elected Quayson, Oseadeeyo Agyemang Badu, who is also the President of the Bono Regional House of Chiefs said the law has a provision or permitted the A-G to discontinue any case that citizens were not interested.

He said continuing with the criminal trial was an insult to Ghanaians and the people of Assin North.

He added that, he does not see any benefits coming to the country, should the A-G decide to continue to prosecute James Gyakye Quayson and that prosecuting him will prevent him from doing his job as a legislator.

"Mr President [Akufo-Addo], you know I love you, this matter cannot go on", he added.

The Dormaahene said the 17,245 votes representing 57.56 percent of the valid votes cast for Mr Quayson was a signal that the constituents had trust and believed in him to be their MP.

Disagreement with Supreme Court ruling

He said he disagrees with the Supreme Court's ruling that annulled the 2020 Assin North parliamentary election and made the seat vacant.

The Dormaahene, who is also a High Court Judge - James Mensah - said if he was on the Supreme Court bench, he would have voted against annulling the election and that he would have voted on the "left" side and would not have gone to the "right".

He said the reason, he would've gone to the left side is the same issues under consideration in the criminal trial and so he would not want to explain or speak on it.

The public lecture was organised on the theme: "The man John Evans Atta Mills - 10 years on".

Various speakers at the lecture described the late Prof Mills as a unifier, peace maker, truthful, God-fearing man, humble, tolerant, listening skills, patience and selfless among others.

As part of the lecture, a 24-book page titled "Atta Mills Speaks to the World" was launched.

The book captured Prof Mills statements at the 64th, 65th and 66th General Assembly of the United Nations, during his term as President.

Story by Biiya Mukusah Ali. Editing and additional files by Enoch Darfah Frimpong

Writer's email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

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NPP inaugurates presidential vetting committee

Samuel Duodu Politics Jul - 01 - 2023 , 14:47

The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has inaugurated a nine-member vetting committee for the partys presidential primary, and it is to be chaired by Professor Aaron Mike Oquaye, a former Speaker of Parliament.

The committee would oversee the vetting of the 10 presidential aspirants of the party from Monday, July 3 to Thursday, July 6, 2023.

The team was selected by the National Steering Committee during a meeting held on May 30.

In accordance with Article 10(3)(F)(ii) of the Partys Constitution, the National Steering Committee, acting for and on behalf of the National Council, at its emergency

meeting held on May 30, 2023, and upon further stakeholder consultations, appointed Rt. Hon. Prof. Aaron Mike Oquaye as Chairman of the Vetting Committee for the Partys

Presidential Primary, a statement issued and signed by the partys General Secretary, Justin Frimpong Kodua, yesterday said.

Members

It named the other members of the committee as Kwasi Amoako-Attah, Stephen Abankwa Sekyere; Osei Bonsu Amoah; Lord Oblitey Commey; Frank Davies, Rita Talata Asobayire;

Hackman Owusu Agyeman and Adelaide Ahwireng.

The party also appointed Mr Amoah, the Member of Parliament for Akuapem North Constituency and a member of the Vetting Committee, as spokesperson for the committee and Evans Nimako, Director for Research and Elections of the party, as secretary to the committee.

At the inauguration of the committee yesterday at the partys headquarters at Asylum Down in Accra, Mr Kodua reiterated the need for the committee to uphold the party's constitution, and urged them to ensure a free, fair and transparent vetting process.

Aspirants

A total of 10 presidential aspirants who filed their nomination as of the close of the submission of forms on Saturday, June 24, 2023 are expected to face the committee individually on

any of the dates set for the vetting from July 3 to 6, 2023.

They are Vice-President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia; a former Minister of Trade and Industry, Alan Kyerematen; a former Minister of Food and Agriculture, Owusu Afriyie Akoto; the Member of Parliament (MP) for Assin Central, Kennedy Ohene Agyapong, and a former Minister of Energy, Boakye Agyarko.

The rest are a former General Secretary of the NPP and Presidential Spokesperson, Kwabena Agyei Agyepong; a former Minister of State and former MP for Offinso North, DKonadu Apraku; a former Minister of Justice and Attorney General and MP for Essikado-Ketan in the Western Region, Joe Ghartey; a former MP for Mampong in the Ashanti Region, Francis Addai-Nimoh, and an energy expert, Ernest Kwadwo Poku.

Submission of report

Per the revised timelines issued by the party last month, the vetting committee is expected to submit its report to the National Executive Committee through the General Secretary on Monday, July 10, 2023.
Guan constituency's Mike Osibo inspires NPP delegates, others

GraphicOnline Politics Jul - 01 - 2023 , 15:56

A New Patriotic Party (NPP) parliamentary candidate hopeful for the Guan constituency in the Oti region of Ghana, Michael Osibo, continues to win the hearts of delegates and community members with his charisma and dedication to the party.

During separate engagements with delegates within Akpafu Odomi, Akpafu Mempeasem, and Akpafu Todzi, a record number of delegates turned up on a busy Saturday, June 24, 2023, to show their support.

Affectionately called "Grassroot Osibo" by the delegates, Michael Osibo engaged with them, emphasizing the importance of including party faithful in all endeavours to ensure the development of both the party and the constituency as a whole.

Addressing concerns raised by the delegates regarding party office accommodation, inclusive leadership, and the welfare of members, Michael Osibo pledged his unwavering support for all.

He also urged party faithful not to be swayed by enticements from any quarters but to embrace and support their own grassroots candidate, Michael Osibo. His commitment and support for the community have been evident throughout the fight for the Oti region, which led to the establishment of the Guan constituency.

The delighted delegates took the opportunity to assure Michael Osibo of their unwavering support, recognizing his dedication when others chose to sit on the fence during challenging times for the party.

Although Michael Osibo was there specifically to engage with delegates, he generously spent extra time interacting with enthusiastic constituents who mobbed him.
Ken Agyapong on how 'small boys' around Bawumia are working to disgrace Alan Kyerematen [VIDEO]

Enoch Darfah Frimpong Politics Jul - 02 - 2023 , 08:55

Presidential candidate hopeful on the ticket of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Kennedy Ohene Agyapong has alleged that some "small boys" around the Vice President, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia were clandestinely working to disgrace Alan Kyerematen, another presidential candidate hopeful.

Highlighting a disunited NPP front as part of his 'post-mortem' of the Assin North by-election, Mr Agyapong said the protocol around the Vice President deliberately interrupted Alan Kyerematen's address at the last rally at Assin North on Sunday.

This, he said, was part of the deliberate ploy to disgrace Alan Kyerematen and to portray him as not popular.

One "small boy" from my hometown who works at State House climbed the platform and instructed Alan Kyerematen to stop talking when the Vice President entered. "What an impudence," he said.

They [protocol team and small boys] deliberately made Dr Bawumia to wait behind the crowd for sometime even though he had arrived at the venue earlier. They signaled him [Bawumia] to enter the grounds when they saw Alan Kyerematen had started speaking, Mr Agyapong alleged.

He said even though President Akufo-Addo and the Chief of Staff, Frema Osei Opare when they arrived at the venue and were ushered unto the platform through the back route, the "small boys" around Bawumia deliberately made him to pass through the crowd, disrupted Alan's address to create attention for the Vice President and it was during that period that, that "small boy" from my hometown who works at the State House, told Alan to stop speaking.

Why should they do this and later turn around to call for "reconciliation," Mr Agyapong questioned and described the move as "nasty".

Stressing why he is convinced the whole incident was planned, Mr Agyapong said two people who took part in erecting the platform were close to him and were in his house the next day, and they confessed to him that the people swerved them.

After erecting the platform, they said the others brought a second "steps" and when they questioned the need for a second one when one had already been erected, they told them "it was for a special project."

Mr Agyapong made his concerns known and made the allegation when he spoke to some NPP members as part of his campaign tour for consideration as flagbearer. [Watch the attached video below]

NPP presidential primary

Ken Agyapong, Alan Kyerematen and Dr Mahamudu Bawumia have been tipped as the front runners among five candidates likely to easily cross the first hurdle of the NPP's presidential race on August 26.

The other aspirants are Dr Owusu Afriyie Akoto, Boakye Agyarko, Kwabena Agyei Agyepong, Dr Kofi Konadu Apraku, Joe Ghartey, Francis Addai-Nimoh, and Ernest Kwadwo Poku.

There are indications in addition to what proponents have said that, Bawumia, Kyerematen and Agyapong have already cleared the first hurdle and were only waiting for two from the remaining seven to join them for the November 4 primary.

The party will hold a special congress on August 26, 2023 to elect five candidates for the November 4 primary.

The NPP last Friday inaugurated a nine-member vetting committee chaired by Professor Aaron Mike Oquaye, a former Speaker of Parliament to oversee the vetting of the 10 presidential aspirants. The vetting will start from from Monday, July 3 to Thursday, July 6, 2023.

They will submit their report on July 10.

Watch the attached video below

Writer's email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

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Milan Nedeljkovic, BMW AG Board Member for Production and also Chairman of the Board of Management of BMW South Africa, announced that from 2024, the company will manufacture the BMW X3 as a plug-in hybrid for global export at Plant Rosslyn in South Africa. An investment of 4.2 billion rand (more than 200 million) will ready the plant for electromobility.

The investment will be accompanied by specialist training for more than 300 employees at the plant.

Plant Rosslyn was the BMW Groups first foreign facility. Plant Rosslyn has produced more than 1.6 million vehicles to date and exported them to more than 40 countries worldwide, including 14 nations in Africa.

Its production portfolio has included the BMW 1800 SA and BMW 2000 SA as well as the BMW 5 Series and 7 Series. For decades it was a cornerstone of BMW 3 Series production, and it has been manufacturing the BMW X3 since 2018the best-selling BMW.

Its establishment marked the start of BMWs globalization. Today, the BMW Group sells vehicles in more than 140 countries around the world and operates manufacturing facilities in 15.
Dubai-based Caviar, known for its custom luxury class devices, today announced Apple Vision Pro Caviar Edition, also called CVR Edition. The Vision Pro is touted as a "spatial computer" by Apple, and Caviar says their idea behind the CVR Edition was to turn this spatial computer into a work of designer art.

The luxury brand drew inspiration for the Apple Vision Pro Caviar Edition from Tom Ford's flip-up glasses and Gucci's ski masks to transform the headset into a "pinnacle of both technology and style."

The Apple Vision Pro Caviar Edition and its protective mask are decorated with more than 1.5kg of 18K gold, while the headband is made from Connolly leather - also supplied to the British Royal Court and Rolls-Royce - to guarantee an indulgent and comfortable experience for the owner.



Apple Vision Pro CVR Edition

Those who've read about the Vision Pro would know that Apple's first AR/VR headset uses EyeSight, which makes the device feel transparent by showing the user's eyes when it's worn and someone approaches them. Even though EyeSight gives visual cues to others that you are busy when you are immersed in an environment or using an app, Caviar decided to offer a privacy option on the CVR Edition to let the users hide their eyes on the external screen since the company found that not everyone appreciates having their eyes displayed on the screen.



Apple Vision Pro CVR Edition lets users hide their eyes on the external screen

While the Apple Vision Pro is priced at $3,499, the Vision Pro CVR Edition is expected to have a whopping starting price of $39,900. Caviar will only make 24 units of the Apple Vision Pro Caviar Edition, which it plans to launch in the fall of 2024.
The more tech-savvy among you probably know that Android is based on the Linux kernel. But it is nothing like a typical Linux that you may have seen on PCs  or on smartphones.

Nokia and Intel spent a lot of time and money trying to launch a Linux-based smartphone operating system. The Nokia N9 saw the two companies join forces to create MeeGo, the union of Nokias Maemo and Intels Moblin. However, it was caught between Symbian and Windows Phone and never lived up to its potential.

There were followups like Samsungs Tizen, a successor to MeeGo that powered some phones in the past, some smartwatches until recently and is still being used a smart TV platform. There was also Firefox OS, which borrowed Androids Linux core to speed past the most difficult parts of OS development. But unless you dug into the internals, you may never have known about Tizens or Firefox OS Linux lineage.

Canonical, the company behind one of the most popular Linux distributions, tried to bring its principles of free, open-source software to the smartphone field with Ubuntu Touch.

Version 1.0 was released in 2013 and was based on Ubuntu 13.10. It ran on phones like the Galaxy Nexus and the Nexus 4. A later version was ported over to the Samsung Galaxy S4 Google Edition. But these were just tech demos primarily aimed at developers.

Canonical itself wanted to build the first-ever Ubuntu Touch phone and in 2013 it turned to IndieGoGo for help with funding a first batch of 30,000-40,000 units. The goal was set at an ambitious $32 million.

At the heart of that campaign was a phone named Ubuntu Edge. It was not intended for retail sales, it would be available only to backers. This was supposed to be a technology demonstrator that paved the way for other Ubuntu phones.

Ubuntu Edge, Canonicals Linux-powered phone

The phone had fairly powerful hardware. An unnamed multi-core CPU was hooked up to 4GB of RAM and 128GB storage (remember, this was in 2013) as well as a 4.5 HD display. For comparison, a Galaxy S4 from the same year had only 2GB of RAM and up to 64GB storage.

But thats not all, using its MHL connector, the Edge could connect to an external monitor over HDMI and turn into a desktop PC. The phones connector could simultaneously do USB On-The-Go, so you could hook up a keyboard and a mouse too. Unfortunately, these mobile-to-desktop transformations never seem to find an audience. Microsofts Continuum was similar  except based on the far more popular Windows  and it flopped.

Ubuntu was both a mobile and a desktop OS

Even the Ubuntu Edge couldnt escape the shadow of Android and the phone was capable of dual-booting Ubuntu and Android. This was a good way to give backers a peace of mind  even if the whole Ubuntu OS thing didnt work out, they would still have a high-quality Android phone.

The campaign started off strong with a $600 For one day only tier that actually overshot the 5,000 backers target slightly. This was a great deals as the phone was initially set to cost $830.

The campaign was off to a strong start and it hit $3.5 million just 24 hours after it began, then got to $8.5 million in 17 days (it was set to run for a month). Interestingly, Bloomberg spent $80,000 on 100 Edge phones, becoming the first major corporate backer of the project.

Anyway, it quickly became clear that the campaign will never reach its funding target, so Canonical dropped the price of the Edge to the $695 for the last two weeks of the campaign. Then it dropped it even lower, $625, but by that point it was too late.

The deadline arrived with $12,733,521 gathered, 39% of the goal. And with that the dreams of a proper Linux smartphone had once again withered on the vine. But all was not lost and several smartphone makers stepped up.

In late 2014 Spanish phone maker BQ became the first to launch a phone with Ubuntu Touch out of the box. Well, that or Android 4.4 KitKat  the BQ Aquaris E4.5 was offered in stock Google Experience and an Ubuntu Edition flavors.

The BQ Aquaris E4.5 was the first phone with Ubuntu Touch pre-installed

The Aquaris E4.5 had a 4.5 qHD display and was powered by a MediaTek chipset with a quad Cortex-A7 CPU and 1GB of RAM, plus 8GB storage. It went on sale in February 2015 at a price of 170, it was offered in Spain, Portugal, the UK and Sweden.

The more advanced BQ Aquaris E5 HD Ubuntu Edition was unveiled in mid-2015 with a 5 720p display, the same MediaTek chipset and a slightly higher price of 200.

BQ Aquaris E5 HD Ubuntu Edition

In 2016 BQ also released the first Ubuntu Touch Tablet, the Aquaris M10. Canonicals aspirations for Ubuntu Touch included smartphones, tablets, smart TVs and, eventually, laptops and desktops too. This would have created a unified Ubuntu experience across all platforms.

The BQ Aquaris M10, the first Ubuntu Touch tablet

Anyway, this 10.1 tablet had a 1,920 x 1,200px screen and also used a MediaTek chipset (quad A53 at 1.5GHz CPU, Mali-T720MP2 GPU) with 2 gigs of RAM, 16GB storage and a 7,280mAh battery. And as you can tell from the Ubuntu Edition in the name, it had an Android version as well. Pre-orders started in March 2016 at 290. There was a cheaper 250 version with a lower resolution 1,280 x 800px screen as well.

BQ wasnt Canonicals only partner  the ever-adventurous Meizu joined in and teased the Meizu MX4 Ubuntu Edition in the build-up to MWC 2015. This version of the phone launched in China in May of that year at a price of CNY 1,800 (around $290 at the time). A month later it arrived in Europe at 300.

Meizu MX4 Ubuntu Edition

The follow-up to that came in early 2016 with the Meizu Pro 5 Ubuntu Edition. Like the Android version, this was a sleek and powerful device with a large 5.7 1080p AMOLED display, an Exynos 7420 chipset (from the Galaxy S6), a 21MP camera and an aluminum body that measured only 7.5mm thick. The Pro 5 Ubuntu Edition launched at $370.

Meizu Pro 5 Ubuntu Edition

Check out our hands-on with the Ubuntu Edition for a glimpse at the state of Ubuntu Touch. A major UI element were the so-called Scopes  these similar to the swipable home screens on Android, but each was focused on a particular task, e.g. Photos, Music, News, etc.

More companies joined in, but none of the big players showed any interest. Purisms Librem 5 and Pine64s PinePhone had plans to support Ubuntu Touch, but those barely moved the needle.

As recently as 2021 an Ubuntu-compatible phone made the news, though not in a good way  The F(x)Tec Pro1-X team ran out of Snapdragon 835 chips and had to switch to the 662.

The F(x)Tec Pro1-X had a slide-out QWERTY keyboard and could run Ubuntu

If you have an old Android phone sitting in a drawer, you can try out Ubuntu Touch  here is the list of supported devices. This list includes Nexus and Pixel phones, OnePlus and Xiaomi, Poco and Nord, some Galaxys, several tablets too.

The project isnt dead, by the way, just a couple of months ago the UBports Foundation released a new version of Ubuntu Touch based on Ubuntu 20.04 LTS.

After the initial success of Windows Mobile, Microsoft tried to recapture the mobile market twice  once with Kin, then again with Windows Phone. Nokia foresaw the end of Symbians domination, but couldnt see the future clearly enough to pick a winning replacement. BlackBerry couldnt get back to the glory days either as its innovative BlackBerry OS 10 was met with disinterest. Mozilla failed too with Firefox OS (though KaiOS lives on). Samsung quietly dropped Tizen out of the mobile market too.

And we can add Canonicals Ubuntu Touch to this list. Android quickly became the default good enough OS and it sucked out all the oxygen from the smartphone market  besides Apple, which is doing its own thing with iOS, every company that wants to make smartphones eventually settles on Android. Any other platform just cant get the critical mass of users, hardware vendors and app developers that is needed to stick around for more than a year or two.
The deadline to apply for federal disaster assistance is approaching.

Guam residents who have suffered losses due to the storm were able to register for federal disaster assistance through the Federal Emergency Management Agency and the agency set a deadline for July 27.

To facilitate the registration process and to also learn more about other disaster assistance programs, several Disaster Recovery Centers have been established across the island.

These centers will be accessible seven days a week, including on the 4th of July.

The locations and operating hours of the DRCs are as follows:

Guam Community College: Open from 7 a.m.-6 p.m.

Juan M. Guerrero Elementary School, Dededo: Open from 7 a.m.-6 p.m.

C.L. Taitano Elementary School, Sinajana: Open from 8 a.m.-5 p.m.

Inalahan Community Center: Open from 8 a.m.-5 p.m.

In addition to FEMAs representatives, the U.S. Small Business Association will also be present to assist applicants with enrollment.

For those unable to visit the DRCs in person, Guam homeowners and renters affected by Typhoon Mawar can register with FEMA by calling 1-800-621-3362 or by visiting disasterassistance.gov.

The FEMA App is another option for downloading the registration application. Further details regarding registration, processing, and FEMAs Individual Assistance Programs can be found at fema.gov.

As the deadline for registration approaches, the number of residents seeking disaster assistance continues to rise. Currently, over 25,000 Guam residents have applied for aid.

FEMA urges all eligible individuals to register before the July 27 deadline to ensure they receive the support they need to recover from the aftermath of Typhoon Mawar.

Additionally, the Hagat-Santa Rita SDA Church is collecting donations on Sundays and Wednesdays from 1-4 p.m. in July.

Acceptable donations include clothes and nonperishable food items that do not need to be refrigerated. All contributions will be distributed to those in need within the community.
The University of Guams School of Business and Public Administration is now accepting applications for the Pedro Doc Sanchez Professional Scholarship.

This scholarship opportunity is specifically designed for career employees of the government of Guam who intend to enroll in the upcoming 2023 Fanuchanan (Fall) Semester.

Enacted as Public Law 19-45 in 1988, the Pedro Doc Sanchez Professional Scholarship has been a beacon of support for career employees, assisting them in their pursuit of higher education degrees in Public Administration or other related fields under SBPA.

According to a press release from UOG, this exceptional scholarship fully covers tuition and fees, ensuring that recipients can focus on their academic endeavors.

UOG is offering a total of six scholarships for undergraduate students and an additional six scholarships for graduate students.

The Pedro Doc Sanchez Professional Scholarship holds a special place in the hearts of the University of Guam and the Government of Guam, as it pays tribute to the late Dr. Pedro Sanchez. Dr. Sanchez was a distinguished legislator, historian, and educator who advocated for the significance and value of an educated government workforce.

Furthermore, he served as the esteemed president of the University of Guam from 1970 to 1974.

According to the press release from UOG, Dr. Sanchezs academic journey began after World War II when he graduated from St. Thomas University in Minnesota. He furthered his education by obtaining a masters degree in Education from Columbia University and later achieved his doctorate from Stanford University.

His dedication to education and his influential role in shaping the University of Guams success make this scholarship a perfect tribute to his remarkable legacy.

Prospective applicants are reminded that the deadline to submit their applications is 5 p.m. on July 14. Those interested in pursuing a higher education degree in Public Administration or related fields are encouraged to take advantage of this incredible opportunity.

For more information about the scholarship and the application process, interested individuals are advised to visit the University of Guams official website or contact the School of Business and Public Administration directly.

An applicant must submit the following:

Completed application form.

Typewritten essay.

Letter of recommendation signed by a government, education, or community leader, preferably from someone who has direct knowledge of an applicants work and academic capabilities as an employee within GovGuam.

Letter of recommendation from the applicants supervisor or director of an department or agency.

Transcripts.

Verification of employment.

Applications can be submitted to the University of Guam School of Business and Public Administration Deans Office or electronically at uogsbpa.com/docsanchez.
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Haiti - Politic : The Prime Minister, Henry, met with the Secretary General of the UN





On Saturday July 1st, 2023, the Prime Minister, a.i. Ariel Henry, accompanied by two Ministers of his Government and his chief of staff, received at his official residence, the Secretary General of the United Nations, Antonio Guterres on a visit to few hours in Haiti.



Ariel Henry presented to the appreciation of the Secretary General of the UN, the situation in Haiti. The discussions focused, among other things, on insecurity, the humanitarian crisis, cholera, food insecurity and the general elections.



Regarding the political situation in the country, the Head of Government made it clear that he had begun consultations with political actors and civil society, with a view to broadening the national consensus.



Stressing the importance of the involvement of the UN for the security stability of the country, Henry also reiterated the determination of the Government team to set in motion the electoral process in order to allow the people to decide, in the near future, the choice of its representatives at different levels of elective positions.



The Secretary General presented his visit as "a visit of solidarity made with humility". He stressed that the United Nations will do everything possible so that Haiti can recover and reiterated its support for the immediate deployment of an international force to assist the National Police of Haiti.



HL/ HaitiLibre






















Haiti - FLASH : Visiting Haiti, Antonio Guterres, calls for the immediate deployment of an international force





On Saturday July 1st, 2023, the UN Secretary-General, Antonio Guterres, paid a few hours' visit to Port-au-Prince, an opportunity for him to call again for the immediate deployment of a robust international security force to assist the National Police of Haiti (PNH) in its fight against gangs.



"I came with a simple message: the United Nations is with you. My solidarity goes out to the people of Haiti, who are facing a terrible cycle of mutually exacerbating security, political and humanitarian crises," Guterres said at a press conference in Port-au-Prince before his departure.



He recalled that "brutal gang violence affects every aspect of public and private life in the country", Port-au-Prince being "encircled by armed gangs who block the main roads leading to the North and South departments, control access to water, food and health care."



He said he was deeply concerned about the extreme vulnerability of populations faced with these "predatory gangs", in particular the disproportionate impact of this violence on women and girls, and he condemned in the strongest terms the generalized sexual violence used by armed gangs "as a weapon to instill fear".



According to the Secretary-General, the gravity of the situation requires "urgent and sustained attention, which places the victims and the civilian populations at the center of our concerns and our priorities" adding "There can be no lasting security without the restoration of democratic institutions and it is impossible to achieve lasting and fully representative political solutions without a drastic improvement in the security situation."



"Every day counts. If we do not act now, instability and violence will have a lasting impact on generations of Haitians," insisted the UN chief, who reiterated his call to all partners to strengthen the PNH, that whether in terms of funding, training or equipment.



"But we need much more to restore the authority of the State" urging the Security Council to authorize "the immediate deployment of a robust international security force which would come to assist the PNH in its fight against gangs."



"Now is not the time to forget about Haiti or weaken our solidarity with its people, Guterres said.



During his whirlwind visit, the Secretary-General met with the Prime Minister secretary-generalde-l-onu.html , members of the High Council of the Transition (HCT), civil society and political parties and discussed with them recalling "Everyone must go beyond their personal interests and make concessions in order to facilitate the emergence of a common vision and a viable and credible electoral path."



He also met Haitians and said he felt "all the exhaustion of a population that has faced for too long a cascade of crises and unsustainable living conditions."



HL/ HaitiLibre






















Haiti - Politic : Signature of a partnership between the UEH and the Ministry of Culture





The State University of Haiti (UEH) and the Ministry of Culture and Communication (MCC) jointly signed on June 27, 2023 a partnership agreement relating to actions for cultural development, enhancement of Haitian cultural heritage, communication and digital.



This agreement is entered into for a renewable period of 3 years and takes effect on the date of its signature. In addition, the Ministry undertakes to subsidize each year the various projects and activities falling within the scope of this partnership.



In this agreement, the MCC and the EUH undertake to collaborate in order to develop knowledge, projects and actions in several areas, among others:



- Scientific reflection on collaborative/participatory governance and public policies relating to culture and communication through the production of knowledge, publications, training; the development of decision-making and planning support tools (mapping, permanent systems for collecting and processing statistics, sectoral strategies, etc...), the establishment of financing and market development mechanisms for goods and services cultural;



- Safeguarding and conservation of cultural heritage and its enhancement through the production of inventories and safeguarding plans for ICH elements; interpretive and operational management plans for elements of tangible cultural heritage and sites of memory; civic heritage education; the publication of a guestbook on the different areas of Haitian cultural heritage; the development of guidance documents for the management of heritage sites and elements; the search for mechanisms for promoting cultural heritage;



- Territorial cultural development and management through research, publications, capacity building training for cultural services and cultural institutions of local authorities;



- The development of Cultural and Creative Industries (CCI) effective through the strengthening of the human and organizational capacities of public institutions and civil society organizations, necessary for development at local and regional levels for the economic development of the national territory;



- The development of communications and digital technology and its integration into the cultural environment and heritage through research, the design of management and governance systems; publications; the organization of conferences, symposiums, forums; carrying out training and building the human and organizational capacities of public institutions and civil society cultural organizations and strengthening media and information literacy;



- Taking into account the issue of gender in culture and communication through scientific research, publications, the organization of conferences and symposiums, forums; conducting training and human and organizational capacity building sessions for public institutions and civil society organizations;



- Reflection on artistic and cultural higher education through the production of statistics, the carrying out of research on training needs, graduation, artistic and cultural employability, the marketing of new resources, cultural entrepreneurship.



HL/ HaitiLibre


















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Published on 2023/07/01 | Source

New stills added for the Korean drama "King the Land" (2023).

Advertisement

Directed by Lim Hyeon-wook

Written by Choi Rom

Network: JTBC

With Lee Junho, Yoona, Go Won-hee, Kim Ga-eun, Ahn Se-ha, Kim Jae-won-III,...

16 episodes - Sat, Sun 22:30

Filming dates: 2022/09~2023/04

Synopsis

Graceful, charismatic, intelligent, and chic, the heir of King Group Goo Won has everything but memories of his mother. In an attempt to recover his memory, he returns to King Hotel. Known as King Hotel's queen of smiles and hospitality, Cheon Sa-rang worked her way up from the front desk to now work at the glamorous "King the Land" space, where she meets Goo Won. Actor Lee Junho plays Goo Won, and actress Yoona plays Cheon Sa-rang.

Broadcast starting date in Korea : 2023/06/17
Niinisto has met Biden four times, and there has always been plenty to discuss. He is not aware of any additional topics for discussion beyond the agreed subjects.

The President of the United States, Joe Biden , is set to visit Finland on July 13th, as part of the Nordic and US summit being held in Helsinki. The announcement was made by the Office of the President of the Republic on Sunday evening.

When asked if Biden would also meet the new prime minister Petteri Orpo, Niinisto analyzed that foreign guests might feel strange if Finland spoke as if with "two voices."

"This is the second time for me when the President of the United States comes to Finland," Niinisto said referring to Donald Trumps visit for a summit with Russian president Vladimir Putin. He mentioned that there has always been a good atmosphere when meeting with US presidents, and that common interests bring people together.

"We have previously spoken widely about various issues in these meetings," Niinisto commented on the topics of discussion for the visit. The President noted that the Ukraine war has changed the situation in Europe, and the NATO memberships of Finland and Sweden have changed relations with Russia.

Niinisto hopes for a positive statement towards Sweden's NATO membership also from Turkey. Regarding Sweden's NATO membership application, Niinisto hopes that NATO member states will show better unity in the process than what it showed in Finland's case. Having said that, he mentioned the decision from Hungary to postpone discussing Swedens NATO membership in the parliament to after summer, saying that Budapest has probably sensed the air in Ankara regarding this topic.

In Niinisto's opinion, it is important that Ukraine is helped in meeting the requirements for NATO membership. The main topics for the NATO summit, according to Niinisto, are the war in Ukraine and supporting Ukraine both economically and militarily, as well as Sweden's NATO membership.

Niinisto mentioned that one of the topics of the summit would be to help Ukraine as much as possible to fulfill the requirements for NATO membership.

While NATO regulations generally do not accept a country in active conflict or with unresolved territorial disputes as a new member, these regulations do not necessarily preclude diplomatic discussions or partnerships with countries in conflict. However, it would be highly unlikely that Ukraines membership would be accepted by all members, including Turkiye and Hungary who are not even comfortable with Sweden joining the alliance.

"This shows that the United States values Nordic relations," Niinisto says, referring to Biden's visit. Niinisto had considered meeting the US president already in 2021, but due to the world situation, the organization of the visit was delayed. Now, however, the visit has been arranged. Niinisto and Biden will first meet one-on-one. The topics of the meeting include technology, environment, and security.

The US President, Joe Biden, will visit Finland on July 13th after the NATO summit in Vilnius which will be held from 11-12th of July. President Sauli Niinisto will host the Nordic and US summit in Helsinki.

The US-Nordic Summit will see the participation of not only President Niinisto and President Biden but also Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson of Sweden, Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Stre of Norway, Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen of Denmark, and Prime Minister Katrin Jakobsdottir of Iceland. The discussions at the Presidential Palace will focus on fostering closer cooperation between the Nordic countries and the United States, with a particular emphasis on security, environment, and technology issues.

President Niinisto expressed his pleasure at hosting the third meeting between the leaders of the Nordic countries and the United States. The previous summits were held in Stockholm in 2013 and in Washington in 2016. "It is a pleasure to continue our discussions this time in Helsinki," said President Niinisto.

Last week, the Finnish media reported that a scouting delegation from the White House had inspected a Finnish hospital to make sure it fulfills the safety requirements in case there would be a need during Bidens visit.

Bidens fallings and blunders have become more frequent recently. Just last week, he said Putin is losing the war in Iraq when he meant Ukraine, confused India with China, and called Kamal Harris president 3 times in one speech.

HT
It's the 'Good Book versus Raleigh politics in debate over school calendar vote

Commissioner Michael Edney holds a Bible to make a point during the board's debate over the county School Board's calendar vote.

Henderson County commissioners lobbed the Good Book, an ego fight and politics played in Raleigh as verbal salvos in a lively and at times rancorous debate over Michael Edneys push to punish the School Board for voting to start school earlier than state law allows.

When the smoke cleared, commissioners had voted 4-1 against Edneys motion to pull $1.9 million in county funding from the school system, leading the maker of the motion to declare that were no longer a society of laws and  in a zinger sure to rankle his fellow conservatives  were no better than Asheville.

During a special called meeting on Wednesday morning commissioners resumed their discussion that began when the board adopted the new 2023-34 budget on June 5. That's when Edney first suggested that commissioners should punish the School Board for its 4-3 vote in February to start the school year on Aug. 14, two weeks earlier than state law allows. School Board members cited completing the fall semester before Christmas and aligning K-12 schools with community colleges and universities as reasons for the decision.

Let me start by saying this is not about the children, were not going to shield ourselves with children, the veteran commissioner, who is also an attorney, said as he kicked off the 25-minute discussion. This isnt really about a start date. Its not about us telling anybody what to do, how to do it, where to do it. Its about the Good Book, and when you put your hand on the Good Book, and you promise to our Lord that youre going to follow the law, are you accountable to do that or not?

"Obviously youre accountable to him. Are you accountable to the rule of law and are you accountable to follow the rule? I think the superintendent even has to take an oath. Are you accountable to make him violate his oath?

The School Boards most recent audit contained a statement confirming that the School Board is in compliance (with the law) as far as all the grants and whatnot they get, he noted. So that begs the question, if they go through with this illegal activity, can that statement remain in the audit? Does that open up the school system and ultimately the taxpayers to repay millions and millions of dollars of federal money, state money if they are not in compliance, and would that fall back on us because were the only people who have the ability to levy that money?

Called upon by Commissioner David Hill to weigh in, County Attorney Russ Burrell said he could not predict what consequences if any the School Board or the county might see. So far, counties that have defied the calendar law have received no sanctions.

You will be on your own to predict whether or not the attorney general of North Carolina will try to enforce it, Burrell said.

Commissioners then summoned schools Superintendent Mark Garrett to the lectern.

This is not the first year where this has happened, Garrett said of local school boards flouting the law. It has happened at least two previous years, in some districts. It is my understanding that there are about 15 of the 115 districts planning to start before that mandated date for 23-24. So far, there has been nothing from Raleigh in terms of enforcement.

When Lapsley described the late August start as a recommendation, Edney corrected him. Its a state law that says you shall not start before a certain date. Shall means shall. It doesnt mean recommendation.

When Burrell described the impasse as a disconnect between the Legislature and the state Department of Public Instruction, Edney interjected that the disconnect was between the Legislature and what liberal rogue school boards have said.

Rebecca McCall, the chair of the Board of Commissioners, declared that she had lost sleep considering the issue.

Lets just call it what it is. The head of the senate was one of the senators that originally adopted the law in the first place and asked that it be adopted along with representatives from Henderson County in order to provide labor for the camps and restaurants and all of the businesses that cater to the tourists after the college students went back to school," she said. "They would have the high school students available to do those jobs. (State Sen. Tom Apodaca was among the sponsors of the calendar law when the Legislature adopted it in 2004.)

This is something that the School Board has been trying to push through in Raleigh for years  not months, but years. They have tried to go through the right channels. They have continuously written their representatives or senators, everybody involved, to get this change, to no avail. Finally, the House took it up this this year, and it was going through and then it kind of stalled in March and hasnt moved since then. But the Senate (blocked it), and I quote (Senate leader) Phil Berger, because I heard him say this in a meeting, he said that its not a priority for them right now.

Why arent the school children of our state a priority for the senate right now? It is up to our senators and our representatives to clean up laws that dont make sense. And yes, I believe that when I put my hand on that Bible that Im swearing to God that I will uphold those laws.

She then cited outdated laws on the books, including ones that make it illegal to swear in front of a dead body, hold bingo games longer than five hours or plow your cotton field with an elephant."

Our children are being held captive in an ego fight because somebody doesnt want to make a change based on the fact that this was put in place in the first place for wrong reasons," she said. "If the School Board made this decision, then thats on them and they have to suffer the consequences. But its not this boards responsibility to enforce any punishment or requirement. We are not their big brother.

Commissioner Daniel Andreotta said common sense would suggest that local school boards across the state should have flexibility, especially considering that the mountains might have many snow days and the coast none.

The root cause here is what people hate about whats supposed to be public service and thats politics and its being played in Raleigh by a select few who have the power to please their select view, he said. It seems to me it would make sense that Raleigh would say, Hey, heres a two week window of starting and finishing: Geographical areas, do what you need to do.

The same people that hired me hired the School Board and thats the citizens, he added. And I have not had one citizen come up to me and say, Hey, What are yall gonna do about what School Board did? I think its our job on this topic to appropriate and fund education just like we fund EMS and the jail and everything else, and each and every department or body has their accountability to the citizens and or to some bigger government arm if need be.

Edney made a motion to withhold $1.9 million from the School Board  $182,655 for each day of school kids are required to be in school in violation of the state statute.

When the motion failed 4-1, Edney moved that we declare the first two weeks in August as an Amnesty Day that no one who in Henderson County has to follow any law they personally disagree with. When no one, the mover included, voted for it, Edney explained that the motion was intended just to prove a point  that were no longer a society of laws and that were no better than city of Asheville.
THE heirs to the Hardwick Estate do not want to inherit it and plan to put it into community stewardship instead.

Miriam and Lawrence Rose say the estate, which is off the Ridgeway in Whitchurch, has been a painful burden on the family for generations.

They believe that a community stewardship scheme is the best way of continuing the familys ethos of organic farming and sustainability.

The initiative is expected to take up to two years to complete and the estate will then become the first in England to be owned in this way.

Sir Julian Rose, who inherited Hardwick in the Sixties following the death of his father and brother, is fully behind his childrens idea of a co-operative venture.

He said: There is a strong case for developing a shared level of responsibility for the future of the estate and indeed for other similar UK holdings.

This is an exciting project that could break new ground in ways to maintain and enhance carefully managed family enterprises in perpetuity.

Ms Rose said: It is our wish to release future generations from the tie of inherited land which has been a painful burden to several generations of our family, to share rights and responsibilities for land with the wider community and to try to secure the estates ethos and integrity into the future.

My brother Lawrence, my father and I are all very blessed to share similar politics.

When we spoke to dad about the idea initially, he was very much on board. He has always been focused on the organic land aspect.

Ms Rose learned about community ownership schemes when she lived near Glasgow while she was studying for a masters degree in human ecology.

The inspiration came from the Isle of Eigg in Scotland, which has been under the ownership of a community heritage trust since 1997.

Under the previous system of land ownership, residents suffered from poor housing conditions, lack of building security and unemployment.

Through public fundraising the island was bought for 1.5 million.

After the buyout, structures were put in place to make sure residents would have a say in decisions which impacted them.

Ms Rose said: Weve been told Hardwick is the Eigg of England as it will be the first community-led estate in England. We are not selling. We are giving the estate to the community, which is completely disinheriting ourselves. Community stewardship is a really viable alternative and good ownership method but it will be a slow transition as we are shifting from hierarchal aristocratic structures to community-led.

We recently attended the 2023 Community Land Scotland conference. Being with likeminded people who have already achieved similar gave us the confidence that we can do it. A community-owned estate is the best way to secure our ethos for the future; we want the strong sense of community to continue for years to come.

Most English estates have no awareness of the land reform movement. We want to raise awareness about opening ownership and governance of estates. Inheriting an estate can be a toxic environment.

After much research, we have settled on a charitable company as the vehicle to achieve this, heavily inspired by the Scottish community-run estates which now make up three per cent of Scotlands land area. The board of the trust will be made up of the Rose family, the Hardwick community and directors with relevant expertise.

Ms Rose said: We are now in the process of working alongside the community at Hardwick  residential and commercial tenants and homeowners  to shape the fine detail of governance and avenues to participation in this novel structure.

Already you can see a structure starting to form with lots of working groups, particularly about green energy and biodiversity, which is very encouraging.

The long-term plan will be for Ms Rose and her brother to eventually step down from the board.

However, the transition will be slow in an effort to make sure the familys ethos is sustained.

Ms Rose is a human rights activist who lives with her partner Ben Manning, a forester at Hardwick, and their three-year-old daughter in a flat she rents from the estate.

She and her brother, a street artist, will each retain a plot of land on which to build a house once the estate has been transferred.

Ms Rose said: We dont draw any income from the estate. I work in the office and get the same wage as everyone else.

We see Hardwick as a microcosm of wider society, an unintentional community facing the myriad of environmental and social challenges of our day and meeting them as best we can.

The estate, which covers 900 acres, is made up of several farming and educational enterprises and land-based businesses as well as 430 acres of mixed forestry.

The community is made up of 80 tenants, 30 of whom own their homes, and 10 business directors. There are also 27 tenanted houses, 23 of which are on affordable rents.
Global Negative Experience Index, 2006-2022. Graphic: Gallup

By Julie Ray

27 June 2023

WASHINGTON, D.C. (Gallup)  Emotionally, the world was no worse off in 2022 than it was in 2021, but it is still in a heightened negative state, according to Gallups latest annual global update on the negative and positive experiences that people have daily.

The well-documented global rise in negative emotions such as stress, sadness, anger and worry stalled last year, keeping Gallups Negative Experience Index unchanged from the high of 33 it reached in 2021.

As it does every year, Gallup asked adults in 142 countries and areas in 2022 if they had five different negative experiences on the day before the survey  and then compiled the results into an index. Higher scores on the Negative Experience Index indicate that more of the population is experiencing these negative emotions.

In 2022, about four in 10 adults worldwide said they experienced a lot of worry (41%) or stress (40%), and nearly one in three experienced a lot of physical pain (32%). More than one in four experienced sadness (27%), and slightly fewer experienced anger (23%).

Worry, stress and sadness remained near their record highs set in 2021, although each declined one percentage point in 2022. The percentage of adults worldwide who experienced physical pain increased one point, while the percentage who experienced anger remained at 23% for the second year in a row.

Positive Emotions Show Signs of Recovery

After dropping for the first time in 2021 following years of stability, positive emotions rebounded slightly in 2022. The global index score in 2022  70  is up one point from the previous year, although it is still lower than the score of 71 in the years leading up to the pandemic and even the first year of the pandemic.

The Positive Experience Index is based on peoples responses to five questions about positive experiences they had the day before the survey. Higher scores indicate that more of the population reported experiencing these emotions.

Last year, roughly seven in 10 people worldwide said they felt well-rested (71%), experienced a lot of enjoyment (72%), or smiled or laughed a lot (73%). Nearly nine in 10 felt treated with respect (87%). People were far less likely, as they are typically, to say they learned or did something interesting the day before the interview; in 2022, half of the world (50%) experienced this.

Improvements on four of the five questions that make up the index helped lift it in 2022. More people in 2022 reported feeling well-rested and respected, experiencing enjoyment, and smiling or laughing a lot than in the previous year.

The percentages of people who said they felt wellrested and experienced enjoyment each increased by two points, and the percentages who smiled or laughed and felt treated with respect each inched up by one point. The percentage who learned something interesting remained unchanged from the previous year.

Positive emotions in Afghanistan, 2008-2022. Afghanistan in 2022 posted the highest score in the world on the Negative Experience Index for the second year in a row. Afghanistans score of 58 on the index remained relatively unchanged from the previous year, when it posted a record-high score of 59. Graphic: Gallup

Afghanistan Again Ranks as Least Positive Country in the World

One year after the Taliban returned to power, life was worse for Afghans than at any point in the past decade  or for anyone else on the planet.

Afghanistan has ranked as the least positive country in the world every year since 2017, apart from 2020 when Gallup could not survey the country because of the pandemic. After dropping to a global record low of 32 in 2021, the situation was not much different a year later. The countrys score of 34 in 2022 is the lowest in the world.

Positive daily experiences were already in limited supply before the Taliban seized control, but these emotions largely disappeared from Afghanistan in 2021  and did not return in 2022. The percentage of Afghans who said they felt enjoyment, learned something interesting or felt well-rested the previous day stayed at or near record lows.

Stress, worry, and physical pain in Sierra Leone, 2006-2022. Graphic: Gallup

Afghans Not Alone in Misery

Afghanistan in 2022 posted the highest score in the world on the Negative Experience Index for the second year in a row. Afghanistans score of 58 on the index remained relatively unchanged from the previous year, when it posted a record-high score of 59.

However, Afghans were not alone in their misery. Sierra Leone also posted a score of 58 in 2022, with all the survey fieldwork in the country taking place after deadly protests against the rising cost of living.

Worry, stress and physical pain skyrocketed to record levels in Sierra Leone in 2022, with strong majorities in the country reporting that they had experienced each of these. Notably, the 77% of Sierra Leoneans who say they experienced physical pain the previous day is  by one point  the highest Gallup has ever recorded for any country.

Implications

While the worlds emotional health didnt get worse in 2022, its too soon for policymakers to relax. Although positive emotions are up, the world still has a wellbeing problem. Negative emotions are still running at record highs. The Negative Experience Index score in 2022 is 10 points higher than it was in 2007  and still two points higher than after the pandemic first arrived.

Global Rise in Unhappiness Stalls
Aries Ganesha says elderly people or pregnant women of this zodiac will have to take special care of their health this week. For this avoid lifting heavy weights and recite or listen to Shri Hanuman Chalisa for inner peace. This can also transmit positive energy in your mind. Those who were till now spending their money without thinking, they may be in dire need of money this week. With this, you can understand during this time what is the importance of money in life. So behave like a responsible person by keeping a check on your expenses. An auspicious event organized by a relative will be the main focus of your family's attention this week. You are likely to get some kind of cheating from colleagues at the workplace, due to which breaks will be seen in your career as well. In such a situation, you are advised to stay away from the company of liars and cheaters from the beginning of this week. According to your education horoscope, this week students of your zodiac may have to miss many opportunities in the field of education. Due to this, there is a possibility of increasing aggression in your nature as well as irritability. In such a situation, you have to avoid thinking too much while controlling your emotions. Weekly Horoscope: Check Astrological prediction from 3rd to 9th July 2023

Taurus

Ganesha says this week you will feel a lack of mental peace, due to which some distraction will be seen in you. In such a situation, instead of worrying too much, take part in religious activities as much as possible according to your faith and take part in charity work to get peace of mind. Because this can not only increase your status in society, but you can also keep yourself away from mental stress to a great extent. If you were struggling with any financial problem till now, then this week instead of worrying about it, you will need to do something that will increase your income. For this, you can also take an important decision by taking advice from your friends, close ones, or an elder. This is the right time to take your parents into confidence for your new projects. For this, you have to initially tell your parents everything about your plan and know their opinion on it. This whole week you will be able to make big achievements in your professional life. The presence of maximum planets in your zodiac indicates that you will emerge as hardworking, more productive, and efficient at your workplace and you will have this diplomatic and tactful behavior. , will help you deal with difficult situations with ease, as well as get you appreciation from senior management. Students who are working hard may be awarded the scholarship in their school or college this week.

Gemini

Ganesha says many such big changes can come in your life this week, for which you were not ready. Because of this, your outlook towards life will look somewhat gloomy and you will feel yourself surrounded by negativity even without wanting to. Your investments this week can increase your prosperity and financial security. In such a situation, invest your money in the right place and show patience by not taking any decision in haste. For this, if you are in trouble, then you have to avoid expecting any miracle from others when you extend your hand to help them. Because you have to understand that others are there for you, not because of them you are in trouble. Your career horoscope shows, if you are in the professional field and employed in a good job, then this week is going to be very important for you. Because during this time you are likely to get many opportunities to move forward in your field. This time can be very good for higher education, during this time you can get good success in the field of higher education. Because the change of location of many auspicious planets and their auspicious aspect on your zodiac sign will work to improve your company and give you the support of your friends and family.

Cancer

Ganesha says this week you should resort to meditation and yoga to get your physical and mental benefits. For this, you can also take the help of an expert if needed. Because this time will be good for your health, but instead of wasting this time by sleeping, take full advantage of it. If you have invested your money in betting or the share market, then you are likely to suffer huge losses this week. Also, there are chances that you may invest more of your money wrongly to get that money back. Therefore, this week it will be better for you to keep yourself away from bad habits like betting as much as possible. Your thirst for knowledge will help you make new friends this week. Along with this, if any member of the house is eligible for marriage, then the atmosphere of the house seems favorable as their marriage is fixed this week. This week is going to be good for you in terms of your career. Because during this time you will be able to get rid of any of your disorders, due to which you will be seen making more efforts than before to achieve your goals in your field of work. Many students will have to travel unnecessarily this week. Due to this, they will not be able to get proper time for their studies. In such a situation, avoid unnecessary journeys as much as possible this week, otherwise, there may be trouble.

Leo

Ganesha says take proper care of your spouse's health this week. Because it is possible that his sudden falling ill can deprive you of good food and drink apart from affecting family peace. This week you will be seen spending more than your income to improve your family image. For this reason, you will be able to improve your image among the members, but spending money without planning can create a financial crisis in your life in the future. This week, the children of the house can help you a lot in handling many household tasks. But for this, you have to look rich as well as ask them for help. Along with this, you will be able to make some new friends in society with your charm and personality. According to the career horoscope, if you are associated with the professional field and are doing a good job, then this week is going to be very important for you. Because during this time you are likely to get many opportunities to move forward in your field. This week, the people of your zodiac will have to be committed to their goal to get success in the field of education. Otherwise, all your previous hard work may go to waste. That's why at this time take any step thinking about your goal.

Virgo

Ganesha says you and the people around you know very well that you are so confident and fiery that you don't need anyone's encouragement. So take advantage of this skill, make the most of it and encourage yourself to eat more and more green leafy vegetables. This week, some of your movable and immovable property can be stolen, or someone can break your trust and grab it, so be careful as much as possible, be careful from the beginning. Avoid trusting anyone blindly. This week will bring happiness, peace, and prosperity to your family life. Due to this, you can plan to visit a religious place or a relative's place with the whole family. Professionally, this week is likely to prove to be very good for the natives of your zodiac. Because the stars are completely in your favor at this point in time. With this, you will get full support of luck in your profession and career. This week, you will have to work a little in the beginning, but after the middle part, you will automatically get successful in every subject. In such a situation, you can increase your knowledge as well as try to understand the subjects by using the internet.

Libra

Ganesha says your horoscope indicates that the impact of your avoiding more fatty food and your balanced routine will be seen positively on your health this week and this will also reduce your obesity. It is possible that someone you know or close to you can attract your attention through big plans and ideas. In such a situation, it would be best for you to do a thorough investigation of that person before making any investment. This week, realizing your responsibilities towards your family, you will give the necessary priority to the needs of the family members.In such a situation, it would be better for you to be a part of their happiness and sorrow, so that they feel that you really care about them and they can open up to you. The business people of this zodiac may have to face problems due to the wrong advice of a close friend. Therefore, be careful while taking any decision, avoiding blindly trusting anyone's advice. This week you may feel some difficulty in understanding many subjects, and you will feel some hesitation even in taking the help of an elder or your teachers in understanding them. However, you will need to feel free to take help from them in changing this nature of yours. Otherwise, you may fail any upcoming test or exam.

Scorpio

Ganesha says at this time, seeing the improvement in the deteriorating health of any member of the house, you yourself will be able to get rid of mental stress. In such a situation, to keep yourself healthy, take care of them as much as possible and do yoga with them regularly. As per your financial horoscope, this week will bring you many opportunities to earn money. But you may need to be alert all the time to recognize these possibilities. Otherwise, you may be deprived of taking proper advantage of them. This week you will get special success in rejuvenating your relations with your relatives. Also, this time will prove to be a good week for domestic matters and long pending household chores. The little difficulty that was being faced in the work in the past, can be completely overcome this week. After which you will be seen successfully completing all your previous unfinished tasks. During this time there is a possibility that the workload on you may increase slightly, but by introducing the right strategy and your intelligence, you will be able to fulfill all your responsibilities towards work. This week many students will find it difficult to understand some of their subjects, but in spite of this, they will be able to get rid of them and earn.

Sagittarius

Ganesha says during this period, you will continuously make changes to improve your lifestyle. For this, you can take yourself out of your comfort zone and decide to do yoga and exercise regularly on a daily basis for a better health life. However, at this time you should avoid taking too much workload on yourself. You may have to think twice before investing in all the schemes that come before you this week. Because it is possible that there is some secret conspiracy behind the opportunity that came in front of you, due to which you will have to bear the brunt in the future. This week, children in the family will be seen humiliating or behaving indecently to any third or outside member in front of you. Because of this, you may have to be humiliated in front of others. However, instead of punishing the children during this time, it will be good for you to sit with them and try to explain to them. This whole week you will be more responsible, focused, and organized in every work at the workplace. With its help, you will also be able to perform better at the workplace. Apart from this, some natives of your zodiac may also get a chance to join a foreign company during this period. This week, there will be additional pressure on many students regarding careers from family and relatives. Due to this, they will not be able to concentrate their mind on studies. In such a situation, you will need to understand that if you have to choose your career, then you should not take any decision under any kind of pressure.

Capricorn

Ganesha says this time can be very good for your health. During this time you will try to do every work with full force and enjoy good health. This week the traders of this zodiac will be in trouble. Will keep thinking about investment. But you are advised not to make any risky or illegal investment. Otherwise, you will be in big trouble. Along with this, the people associated with partnership businesses are also likely to get good financial benefits at this time. In family life, this week the people of this zodiac are expected to get very good results. Because there is a possibility that some new or small guests will arrive in the family, which will bring happiness to the family environment. Shani is present in the second house of your zodiac sign and due to its effect brotherhood and mutual love will also be seen during this period. Will be seen. This week it is possible that you may come in a hurry and forget to understand that your work is done. In such a situation, until you are satisfied that all the work has been completed, you will have to refrain from giving your documents to the senior officials. For this, it would be better that you double-check every document. This week will keep on learning something new, their intellectual ability will improve, in addition, other students may face many harmful consequences along with decline. in their capacity.

Aquarius

Ganesha says this week, especially pregnant women will need to take special care of their health. Otherwise, due to any kind of infection, you may have to face special problems. Your financial life this week cannot be called good, you will have to face many difficulties related to money throughout this week. Also, you will be unable to save during this period, due to which mental stress will increase. You will feel a little irritated this week because of the behavior of people around you, especially family members. This will also increase your mental stress, as well as it is possible that you may have a dispute with them. The presence of many planets in your zodiac this whole week will prove to bring good results for professionals. Apart from this, this time period can also prove to be good for those who are thinking of starting a new business apart from their main business or service. This week is going to be especially good for students who are dreaming of studying abroad. Apart from this, for students studying fashion or other creative fields, this time will be the best. Because at this time they will get many opportunities for success in their education.

Pisces

Ganesha says this time period is very important for you in terms of health. Because during this time you will not have to face health-related troubles, but in spite of this you will be seen to include yoga and exercise in your daily routine to keep yourself healthy. This week, you have to understand that opening your hands in front of others and spending more than your capacity is not wise, it is a stupid act. Understand this thing and avoid doing so, only then you will be able to save your money. An invitation to your child's prize distribution ceremony will be a happy feeling for you and the family. He will live up to your expectations and you will see your dreams come true through him, which will clearly see the moisture in your eyes. This week you may feel a bit lethargic or a victim of a victim complex, but despite this, you will also be eager to get an appreciation for everything you do. Due to this, you will be able to get some auspicious opportunities to progress in your career. Students of this amount who are thinking of going abroad can get some good news in the middle of this week. However, for this, you will need to focus on your goal.

Contact Shri Chirag Daruwalla:

Call / whatsapp on: +91 9825470377

Email: info@bejandaruwalla.com

Website Url: www.bejandaruwalla.com

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State agriculture department and Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) experts strongly favour legislation to ban the water-guzzler spring maize as the remunerative commercial crop is gaining popularity among the farming community. State agriculture department and Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) experts strongly favour legislation to ban the water-guzzler spring maize as the remunerative commercial crop is gaining popularity among the farming community. (HT Photo)

This third crop is sown in February and harvested in June, and it is on the highly recommended list of the PAU as the state is already struggling with the depletion of the groundwater table at alarming levels. Experts estimate this year about one lakh hectares or 2.50 lakh acres area was used to cultivate spring maize from 44,000 hectares in 2022.

As per Punjab Mandi Board data, the state has seen the arrival of 32 lakh quintals of spring maize till June 30 which was 50% more than during the corresponding period 2022 when 21 lakh quintals hit the mandis.

According to agriculture director Gurvinder Singh, the state only promotes kharif season maize as an alternative to paddy while maize sown in February is highly hazardous from Punjabs perspective.

There is no official data on spring maize acreage as it is not a recommended crop.

This crop is a big no for Punjab where the groundwater table is depleting drastically and there is a need for sustainable farming. Maize sown in February-March is a very recent trend in the last about 4 years but its growing popularity is alarming. Punjab cannot afford to allow a highly water-intensive crop when the state is facing a threat of quality water for agriculture. Cultivation of spring maize needs a ban under a new law to save water and it should be allowed strictly only with water-saving technology of drip irrigation said the director.

Spring maize is used to silage, considered a superfood for cattle.

Experts attribute the growing popularity of the crop to an increase in the number of private silage manufacturing plants in different parts of the state in the last few years.

Spring maize is sown mostly in the potato belt of Doaba region comprising Jalandhar, Hoshiarpur, and Kapurthala districts and farmers in Ludhiana, Gurdaspur and Patiala cultivate the crop.

As per the official data, out of 31. 53 lakh quintal maize arrived in the mandis by June end, 31.11 lakh quintal crop was bought by the private buyers below the MSP (minimum support price) of 2,090 per quintal.

Various farmer unions have been protesting against the Punjab government stating low rates have caused losses to farmers.

The director said farmers are getting 35-40 quintals per acre during spring, which is quite a high yield than kharif when the average per acre yield is less than 20 quintals.

Farmers may be getting less than MSP but the high yield per acre brings them more money. But the cultivation of spring maize is hazardous to Punjabs agricultural ecosystem, he added.

PAU agronomist and expert in water management Ajmer Brar said Punjab needs to diversify its crop pattern, from paddy to maize, cotton and basmati.

But the ideal alternative when it comes to maize is not the spring maize but kharif maize, which is grown during the paddy season from June to October. When sown in June or July, maize requires 4-5 irrigation cycles in the rainy season. Whereas the crops requirement touches 28-30 irrigations when sown in spring or summer. Punjab government must ban the spring maize or allow it only using drip irrigation, added Brar.

Due to high temperatures, the water gets evaporated soon and frequent watering of the maize crop is needed in the peak summer season. This affects the water table drastically.

Principal maize breeder at PAU Surinder Kaur Sandhu said after the popularity of spring maize, a section has now started sowing maize between wheat and paddy.

Both are not recommended for Punjab and the popularity of this crop pattern is a matter of serious concern. Innovation of short duration rice varieties is being taken in a wrong manner as farmers have started overstressing the farms by rearing 90-day duration crop of maize in an unwanted manner between wheat harvesting and sowing of paddy, she said.

According to Sandhu, spring maize was being grown for the last almost a decade but following a sharp rise in rates of wheat straw or toori used as cattle fodder, silage manufacturing units have suddenly started mushrooming for the last 3-4 years.

Information gathered from the seed and silage manufacturers hints that this year one lakh hectares was used for sowing spring maize. It is an easy and remunerative crop but the state government should intervene in view of Punjabs water crisis, she added.
Map showing total groundwater storage change on land (a) and the associated sea level variation (b) for 19932010. Units are mm of water. Graphic: Seo, et al., 2023 / Geophysical Research Letters

WASHINGTON, 15 June 2023 (AGO)  By pumping water out of the ground and moving it elsewhere, humans have shifted such a large mass of water that the Earth tilted nearly 80 centimeters (31.5 inches) east between 1993 and 2010 alone, according to a new study published in Geophysical Research Letters, AGUs journal for short-format, high-impact research with implications spanning the Earth and space sciences.

Based on climate models, scientists previously estimated humans pumped 2,150 gigatons of groundwater, equivalent to more than 6 millimeters (0.24 inches) of sea level rise, from 1993 to 2010. But validating that estimate is difficult.

One approach lies with the Earths rotational pole, which is the point around which the planet rotates. It moves during a process called polar motion, which is when the position of the Earths rotational pole varies relative to the crust. The distribution of water on the planet affects how mass is distributed. Like adding a tiny bit of weight to a spinning top, the Earth spins a little differently as water is moved around.

Earths rotational pole actually changes a lot, said Ki-Weon Seo, a geophysicist at Seoul National University who led the study. Our study shows that among climate-related causes, the redistribution of groundwater actually has the largest impact on the drift of the rotational pole.

Waters ability to change the Earths rotation was discovered in 2016, and until now, the specific contribution of groundwater to these rotational changes was unexplored. In the new study, researchers modeled the observed changes in the drift of Earths rotational pole and the movement of water  first, with only ice sheets and glaciers considered, and then adding in different scenarios of groundwater redistribution.

The model only matched the observed polar drift once the researchers included 2150 gigatons of groundwater redistribution. Without it, the model was off by 78.5 centimeters (31 inches), or 4.3 centimeters (1.7 inches) of drift per year.

Im very glad to find the unexplained cause of the rotation pole drift, Seo said. On the other hand, as a resident of Earth and a father, Im concerned and surprised to see that pumping groundwater is another source of sea-level rise.

This is a nice contribution and an important documentation for sure, said Surendra Adhikari, a research scientist at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory who was not involved in this study. Adhikari published the 2016 paper on water redistribution impacting rotational drift. Theyve quantified the role of groundwater pumping on polar motion, and its pretty significant.

(a) Individual contributors to the polar motion (PM) excitation trend. (b) Sum of PM excitation trend contributors with (solid blue) and without (dashed blue) groundwater depletion. Red arrow is the observed PM excitation. Graphic: Seo, et al., 2023 / Geophysical Research Letters

The location of the groundwater matters for how much it could change polar drift; redistributing water from the midlatitudes has a larger impact on the rotational pole. During the study period, the most water was redistributed in western North America and northwestern India, both at midlatitudes.

Countries attempts to slow groundwater depletion rates, especially in those sensitive regions, could theoretically alter the change in drift, but only if such conservation approaches are sustained for decades, Seo said.

The rotational pole normally changes by several meters within about a year, so changes due to groundwater pumping dont run the risk of shifting seasons. But on geologic time scales, polar drift can have an impact on climate, Adhikari said.

The next step for this research could be looking to the past.

Observing changes in Earths rotational pole is useful for understanding continent-scale water storage variations, Seo said. Polar motion data are available from as early as the late 19th century. So, we can potentially use those data to understand continental water storage variations during the last 100 years. Were there any hydrological regime changes resulting from the warming climate? Polar motion could hold the answer.

###

AGU (www.agu.org) is a global community supporting more than half a million advocates and professionals in Earth and space sciences. Through broad and inclusive partnerships, AGU aims to advance discovery and solution science that accelerate knowledge and create solutions that are ethical, unbiased and respectful of communities and their values. Our programs include serving as a scholarly publisher, convening virtual and in-person events and providing career support. We live our values in everything we do, such as our net zero energy renovated building in Washington, D.C. and our Ethics and Equity Center, which fosters a diverse and inclusive geoscience community to ensure responsible conduct.

Notes for journalists:

This study is published in Geophysical Research Letters, a fully open-access journal. View and download a pdf of the study here.

Paper title:

Drift of the Earths pole confirms groundwater depletion as a significant contributor to global sea level rise 1993-2010

Authors:

Ki-Weon Seo (corresponding author), Center for Educational Research and Department of Earth Science Education, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea

Jae-Seung Kim, Kookhyoun Youm, Department of Earth Science Education, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea

Dongryeol Ryu, Department of Infrastructure Engineering, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia

Jooyoung Eom, Department of Earth Science Education, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, Republic of Korea

Taewhan Jeon, Center for Educational Research, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea

Jianli Chen, Department of Land Surveying and Geo-informatics, and Research Institute for Land and Space, Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong

Clark Wilson, Department of Geological Sciences, and Center for Space Research, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA

Contact

AGU press contact: Rebecca Dzombak, news@agu.org (UTC-4 hours)

Contact information for the researchers: Ki-Weon Seo, Seoul National University, seokiweon@snu.ac.kr (UTC+9 hours)

Weve pumped so much groundwater that weve nudged the earths spin

Global mean sea level (GMSL) contributions, 19932010, from the Antarctic ice sheet (AIS) (a), Greenland ice sheet (GrIS) (b), mountain glaciers (c), soil moisture (d), artificial reservoirs behind dams (e) and groundwater (f). Note differences in the vertical scales. Graphic: Seo, et al., 2023 / Geophysical Research Letters

Drift of Earths Pole Confirms Groundwater Depletion as a Significant Contributor to Global Sea Level Rise 19932010

ABSTRACT: Climate model estimates show significant groundwater depletion during the 20th century, consistent with global mean sea level (GMSL) budget analysis. However, prior to the Argo float era, in the early 2000s, there is little information about steric sea level contributions to GMSL, making the role of groundwater depletion in this period less certain. We show that a useful constraint is found in observed polar motion (PM). In the period 19932010, we find that predicted PM excitation trends estimated from various sources of surface mass loads and the estimated glacial isostatic adjustment agree very well with the observed. Among many contributors to the PM excitation trend, groundwater storage changes are estimated to be the second largest (4.36 cm/yr) toward 64.16E. Neglecting groundwater effects, the predicted trend differs significantly from the observed. PM observations may also provide a tool for studying historical continental scale water storage variations.

SIGNIFICANCE: Melting of polar ice sheets and mountain glaciers has been understood as a main cause of sea level rise associated with contemporary climate warming. It has been proposed that an important anthropogenic contribution is sea level rise due to groundwater depletion resulting from irrigation. A climate model estimate for the period 19932010 gives total groundwater depletion of 2,150 GTon, equivalent to global sea level rise of 6.24 mm. However, direct observational evidence supporting this estimate has been lacking. In this study, we show that the model estimate of water redistribution from aquifers to the oceans would result in a drift of Earths rotational pole, about 78.48 cm toward 64.16E. In combination with other well-understood sources of water redistribution, such as melting of polar ice sheets and mountain glaciers, good agreement with PM observations serves as an independent confirmation of the groundwater depletion model estimate.

Drift of Earths Pole Confirms Groundwater Depletion as a Significant Contributor to Global Sea Level Rise 19932010
A 37-year-old farmer was hacked to death in Jalandhars Ladhewali village, allegedly over a dispute over employing a migrant labourer in his field. A 37-year-old farmer was hacked to death in Jalandhars Ladhewali village, allegedly over a dispute over employing a migrant labourer in his field. (HT File)

The victim, identified as Kuljinder Singh, had allegedly been attacked by six assailants with sharp-edged weapons while he was ploughing and irrigating his fields around on the intervening night of Saturday and Sunday.

Nakodar Sadar station house officer Gurinderjit Singh said the victims wife has named six people for the murder. She told the police that the accused were her husbands friends who had turned against him after he employed a migrant worker, who earlier used to work in field belonging to one of them.

The SHO said three accused, identified as Gurdeep Singh, Varinder Singh and Vicky, have been arrested, while search is on for the other accused.

The accused had attacked him with sharp-edged weapons and even injured his brother, who came to rescue him. Kuljinder was rushed to a hospital where he succumbed to his injuries, he said.

The case has been registered under Section 302 (murder) of the Indian Penal Code.

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Panipat police arrested three members of a family for allegedly duping a man of 60 lakh on the pretext of helping him move to the United States. Three members of Panipat family were arrested for duping man of  60 lakh. (HT File)

The accused have been identified as Surinder Singh, his wife Saroj Rani and their daughter Prachi, all residents of Kurana village of Panipat district.

As per the first information report (FIR) registered at the Matlauda police station, the victim, Rajbir Singh, a resident of the same village, alleged that the accused were his relatives and ran an immigration centre.

Rajbir told police that the accused had promised to help send him to the US and the deal was fixed at 60 lakh, but instead sent him to Azerbaijan and made wait for three months before helping him return home.

Upon return, he demanded his money back, but the accused refused and threatened him. He then reached out to the police.

A cheating case under sections and section 24 of the Immigration Act was registered at the Matlauda police station.

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Following incessant rainfall in Uttarakhand's Chamoli district, the Badrinath National Highway (NH-7) has been shut for the last 13 hours at Lambagad and Khachada drains, officials said on Sunday. Earlier on Friday morning, Badrinath national highway was shut due to a landslide after it reopened for traffic. (Representational Image) (File)(ANI)

Amid the closure of the national highway, commuters are stuck.

Also Read | Heavy rainfall lashes Gujarat, waterlogging in several districts

According to the officials, the National Highway Authority of India (NHAI) is working to open the highway. They said that due to the blockage of the highway, many passengers are stranded.

The work of opening the highway is going on continuously by the NHAI.

Earlier on Friday morning, Badrinath national highway was shut due to a landslide after it reopened for traffic.

Later on Saturday, vehicle movement on the highway had to be restricted again due to a rise in the water level in the Khachdu drain near Uttarakhand's Lambagad.

Authorities closed the Badrinath National Highway 7 (NH 7) at Chhinka in the State's Chamoli district leaving many commuters, including pilgrims and tourists travelling to and returning from the famed Badrinath shrine.

Earlier on Thursday, heavy rain triggered landslides and flash floods in Uttarakhand causing a landslide in the same place and blocking of Badrinath National Highway. A stretch of 100 meters of the highway was blocked due to a heavy landslide from a hill near Chhinka on Thursday morning due to rain.
A mazar and a Hanuman temple were removed by the Public Works Department (PWD) from the main road in New Delhi's Bhajanpura as an anti-encroachment drive on early Sunday morning amid heavy police deployment - to prevent any untoward incident - after a meeting of the Delhi Religious Committee, the police said. An anti-encroachment drive is being carried out by the PWD in Delhi's Bhajanpura area to remove a Hanuman temple and mazar.(ANI)

"The decision to remove both the structures (temple and mazar) from Bhajanpura Chowk was taken during a meeting of the Delhi Religious Committee because the road has to be widened as construction of Saharanpur Highway is underway. Everything was done peacefully," Joy N Tirkey, North East DCP, told reporters.

Seelampur sub divisional magistrate Sharat Kumar the decision was approved by the religious committee and following the orders of lieutenant governor VK Saxena, the demoliti

on drive was carried out. "It was done peacefully and there was no problem", Kumar said.

Reacting to the development, Delhi minister and Aam Aadmi Party leader Atishi requested the L-G not to demolish temples and other religious places in the national capital.

Mr. LG: I had written a letter to you a few days back requesting you to take back your decision to demolish temples and other religious places in Delhi. But today again on your orders a temple has been demolished in Bhajanpura. I request that temples and other religious places not be demolished in Delhi. People's faith is attached to these, Atishi tweeted in Hindi.

Scores of residents in east Delhis Mandawali protested and got into confrontations with officials on Thursday after the Public Works Department (PWD) came to the spot with a bulldozer to raze a railing around a Shani temple that encroached upon a pavement, leading to tense moments before paramilitary reinfocements were called.

A letter to the lieutenant governor, Atishi had alleged that she learnt from the PWD that the L-G issued the order to demolish 14 religious structures. The officers have told me that the then home minister Manish Sisodia in February 2023 had opposed the demolition proposal and suggested that necessary changes should be made in the projects map. But when this file was put up to you, you overturned his proposal and gave the order to demolish the religious structures, Atishi wrote.

The minister appealed to the L-G to withdraw his order to demolish the religious structures. She said the officers also informed her that the L-G has noted in the file that the demolition of religious structures pertains to law and order, and the LG is the competent authority to take a decision on this. In future, all files related to demolition of religious structures should not be sent to the elected government. The files should be sent to you directly from the chief secretary, she added.

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One day after the body of an auto-rickshaw driver was found in a water-filled pit in northeast Delhis Harsh Vihar, police officers aware of the case on Saturday said that the autopsy report has revealed that he died by drowning, and added that they have registered a case of causing death due to negligence. The incident took place near an under-construction flyover in Harsh Vihar, where there was a very deep pit, police said. (HT PHOTO)

Police said they suspect that the deceased, Ajit Sharma, 51, drowned on Friday morning while trying to drive through the spot, unaware of the pit.

There were no passengers at the time of the accident, police said.

They said that the spot where the body was found had a very deep pit dug up to bear pillars for an under-construction flyover.

Joy Tirkey, deputy commissioner of police (northeast), said, The ditch was dug up to bear pillars for the under-construction flyover. So, while it was a very deep pit, it remained filled with rain water because of which we couldnt determine its exact depth, said Tirkey. It seems Sharma drove over the ditch without realising that it was deep, toppled out of the auto, and accidentally drowned.

The DCP said the charge of causing death due to negligence was applied as an initial probe suggested that there were lapses in terms of securing the pit. There seemed to be issues with the barricading, signages and the deploying of guards to keep the public and vehicles away, he said.

Responding to the incident, Public Works Department (PWD) minister Atishis office said in a statement, The Delhi government has taken cognisance of the incident and is dealing with it very seriously. The responsibility to maintain these roads as per prescribed safety standards lies with the contractor assigned to the road. The government will enquire into the laxity on part of the contractor and take appropriate action. At the departmental level, the PWD Minister has also given directions for strictest possible action against the officials found guilty in this incident.

On Saturday, as large number of vehicles drove past the accident spot, the pit was barricaded more effectively than the allegedly callous way it was prior to the death. The pit, however, remained filled with rain water.

A couple of men stood guard to prevent anyone from getting too close to the pit. One of them said that he was deployed there after the death, while the other said that he was posted from earlier. They refused to comment on the safety arrangements.

Tirkey said that the process of establishing responsibility is in process.

Once that is done, we will write to the concerned company and contractor as well as the PWD, which was constructing the flyover, he said.

Sharmas family said they want justice.

My father paid with his life for someones negligence. The punishment for the people responsible for it should be such that those working in public space are mindful about the consequences of their carelessness, said his son Dhruv, who works at a vehicles spare parts shop in Karol Bagh.

Dhruv said his father worked long hours and didnt care about his sleep or schedule because his job fed a family of six.

He would work for 22 straight hours, sleeping in his auto for short spells in between rides to make the most of his duty hours, said Dhruv. Such carelessness on dug up roads threatens all our lives every day. Today my father actually paid with his life.

Sharmas brother Kuldeep said even the barricades placed around the mishap spot were kept without any thought. The fencing should have been such that even a child doesnt pass through. Here, an entire auto-rickshaw went through right into the pit and no one realised anything for so many hours, he said.
Work on the Delhi section of the Delhi-Meerut RapidX Regional Rail Transit System (RRTS) is progressing fast, and is expected to meet the deadline for the overall project, officials aware of the matter said on Sunday. A RapidX train in on the priority section in Ghaziabad on Monday. (Sakib Ali/HT Photo)

In Delhi, the link begins at Sarai Kale Khan where at least 70% civil work has been completed. They added that work on four tunnels for the underground section, on both Delhi and UP side, was also on.

Also Read | Delhi LG nod to land allotment at Jangpura for RRTS project

Sarai Kale Khan is one of the biggest stations along the total 82km route. The entire Delhi-Ghaziabad-Meerut line is expected to become operational by June 2025.

At this station, 80% of slab casting for the concourse level, and 50% at the platform level has been completed. Cross-arm construction on the concourse level has also been completed. With this, the construction of the stations roof will begin soon. With multimodal integration at its core, this 215-metre-long, 50-metre-wide, and 15-metre-high RapidX station is strategically planned and located near a Metro station, the Indian Railways Hazrat Nizamuddin station and Vir Haqiqat Rai ISBT, said a spokesperson for the National Capital Region Transport Corporation (NCRTC).

Work in progress at the Sarai Kale Khan station. (NCRTC)

According to officials, the station is also being designed to facilitate interoperability because it is the meeting point for all three priority corridors from Delhi to Panipat, Meerut and SNB-Alwar.

Interoperability will allow commuters to travel from one corridor to another without having to change trains. Six platforms with four tracks are being built at Sarai Kale Khan station to facilitate this, said the spokesperson.

The station is also getting a 280-metre-long foot overbridge (FOB) with six travellators to connect it to Hazrat Nizamuddin railway station. Columns have been cast for this purpose, and a contract for the installation of travellators has been awarded, officials said.

Also Read | RRTS project: 10 trainsets fully readied to operate at 15-minute initial frequency on priority section

Sarai Kale Khan is a prominent neighbourhood in the Capital with many well-established transit services, utilities and buildings. NCRTC faced a herculean task in shifting or modifying large-scale utilities that were impeding the construction of the corridor and the station. This is one of the largest and most complex shifting or modifications ever undertaken for the RRTS project, the spokesperson added.

Officials aware of the matter said more than 80% of the pillars and the 4.5-km-long viaduct for the elevated section in Delhi had been completed. At least 14km of the 82km corridor is in Delhi, with the remaining 68km in Uttar Pradesh.

Also Read | RRTS: Commuters will have multiple ticketing, payment options

In the Delhi section, approximately nine kilometres are elevated and nine kilometres are underground, and Jungpura, Sarai Kale Khan, New Ashok Nagar and Anand Vihar four stations.

NCRTC intends to complete the corridor by 2025. Prior to that, it will put the 17-km-long priority section of the corridor between Sahaibabad and Duhai Depot in Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh, into service. According to officials, the priority section will become operational within a month.

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Gurugram: Two suspects were arrested for their alleged involvement in the theft of more than two tonnes of reinforcement bars, noise barriers and other equipment meant for the construction of a bridge on National Highway (NH-48) in Badshahpur, Gurugram police said on Sunday. Two held in Gurugram for stealing bridge construction materials

Police said a huge quantity of raw materials kept along the Southern Peripheral Road (SPR) in Badshahpur for the construction of the bridge was missing and officials of the construction firm Larsen & Toubro (L&T) noticed it around 10 days back.

Investigators said before the L&T officials could take any action, more items were stolen after which they approached police on June 30.

Police said more than 2,000 kilograms of reinforcement bars, at least 150 noise barriers and other items were stolen from the spot.

According to police, they launched an investigation by checking the scrapyards along the SPR, leading to the arrest of the two suspects from Sector 74 on Friday night. They were identified as Rafique Ahmed and Noor Mohammad, both aged about 37 years, police said.

As per police, both the suspects hail from Bareilly in Uttar Pradesh and had shifted to Gurugram a couple of months back with the motive to steal construction materials at night to avoid being caught.

Subhash Boken, public relations officer of Gurugram police, said the two suspects were loading the stolen materials in a pickup van when they were nabbed.

Boken said that 700 kilograms of bars, 20 noise barriers made up of fibre sheets, a pickup van and other stolen materials were recovered from the suspects, while the rest of the items have been sold.

Investigators said L&T engineers verified the seized bars manufactured by the Steel Authority of India Limited (Sail) and they were of the same specifications that they had procured for the bridge construction project.

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Over one lakh madrasa students studying in 558 government-aided madrasas have been waiting for their uniform for the last four years now. Govt-aided madrasa students in Uttar Pradesh may get uniform soon (file photo)

Efforts are on to provide them the uniform in July this year, said chairman UP state Madrasa Education Board, Dr Iftikhar Ahmed Javed.

He said, in January this year two important decisions were taken during the board meeting. The first was to implement NCERT syllabus in a phased manner in madrasas and second was to remove obstacles coming in the way of distributing dresses to madrasa students.

At present, students of state-run schools are getting 1,200 for uniform in Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) account.

Efforts are being made to provide the madrasa students 1200 in their accounts for the uniform as soon as the proposal sent to the government is accepted. However, no dress code for madrasa has been finalised. The madrasas will be free to choose the dress like kurta pajama for male students and salwar, kurta for girl students, said Dr Iftikhar.

Currently, there are over 25,000 madrasas in the state, over 16,513 are recognized by the UP Board of Madrasa Education. Of these, 558 are government-aided while others are only affiliated with the Madrasa Education Board. Over 19 lakh students are enrolled at these recognised madrasas. while around 7 lakh students are studying in around 8,500 unrecognised madrasas of state. Over one lakh students study in 558 aided madrasas of the state who would be getting the dress, he said.

Iftikhar Ahmed Javed said that the textbooks of the Basic Education Council had been made available free of cost to the students of class 1 to class 8 of aided madrassas.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit Sampurnanand Sanskrit University (SSU) during his two-day visit to his parliamentary constituency Varanasi beginning on July 7. SSU vice chancellor Prof Anand Kumar Tyagi inspecting the university campus on July 2. (Sourced)

Modi will visit the ancient building of SSU and the universitys library at Saraswati Bhavan having rare manuscripts, the legacy and treasure trove of oriental studies, said a senior SSU official. Before that, Uttar Pradesh chief minister Yogi Adityanath will visit the SSU on July 5.

The universitys public relations officer Shashindra Mishra confirmed it. Meanwhile, vice chancellor, SSU, Prof Anand Kumar Tyagi on Sunday inspected the entire university campus, including all the departments, in view of the PMs proposed visit here, he said.

The VC instructed the construction and property department for beautification and cleanliness of the entire university campus at the earliest. This week is a festival time for all of you. Every corner of the campus should be cleaned, repaired and beautified with dedication. Monitoring of this work will be done daily, he said.

Prof Tyagi said, This institute is the temple of element of knowledge. They nurtured it by their penance. Therefore, all those working here are very lucky. Work in harmony. PM Modis visit to the university is a great occasion. If this university gets the status of a central university, everyone will get its benefit.

He said the rare manuscripts preserved in the Saraswati Bhawan Library are pride of the nation. These manuscripts are invaluable treasure trove of oriental studies. The manuscripts explain Indias great cultural heritage and Sanatana culture, he said.

Shashindra Mishra said, This library was set up at the time of establishment of Government Sanskrit College, Varanasi (in 1894). But the foundation stone of its building Saraswati Bhavan was laid on November16, 1907. This building was completed in 1914 and was named Prince of Wales Saraswati Bhawan.

Initially, the library had 1,11,132 manuscripts on subjects like Vedas, Vedangas, Puranas, astrology and grammar etc. However, at present their number is about 95,000. Written in different scripts of Devanagari, Kharosthi , Maithili, Oriya, Gurmukhi, Telugu, Kannada and Sanskrit, these manuscripts are written on gold leaf, paper, palm and wood, Mishra added.
The Samajwadi Party (SP) has decided to challenge the BJP alliance in Uttar Pradesh by mobilising backward caste communities on the caste census issue before the 2024 Lok Sabha election, SP chief Akhilesh Yadav indicated here on Sunday. SP chief Akhilesh Yadav (HT FIle Photo)

The common people want caste census and the SP alliance will continue its fight for the caste census in Uttar Pradesh, Yadav said at a conference organised by his alliance partner the Apna Dal (Kamerawadi) to mark the birth anniversary of Apna Dal founder Sonelal Patel at the SP state office here.

Describing the caste census as one of the biggest issues in the country, he said several countries have made provisions to empower the weaker sections. They have formulated and implemented rules accordingly, he added.

But in our country, people are being misguided by false slogans of the Bhartiya Janata Party, he alleged.

If we raise the issue of caste census, the BJP will tag us a casteist party. The BJP leaders shrewdly raise the slogan sabka saath, sabka vikas. Will the slogan empower the people or end inequality? Inequality in the society will end only when caste census is completed and all the communities get share according to their population, he said.

He reiterated the Samajwadi Party will challenge the NDA with its PDA formula -- Pichda (backward classes), Dalit and Alpasankhyak (Minorities). The PDA will also fight for the caste census in Uttar Pradesh before the Lok Sabha election, he said.

Sonelal Patels birth anniversary prompted shows of strength by rival Apna Dal factions in Lucknow. The Apna Dal (Sonelal) led by Union minister Anupriya Patel is a partner of the ruling National Democratic Alliance (NDA) while the Apna Dal (Kamerawadi) is an SP ally.

The Apna Dal (S) organised a conference in Indira Gandhi Pratisthan in Lucknow. The Apna Dal (K) led by Sonelals wife and Anupriyas mother Krishna Patel held its programme at the Samajwadi Partys state unit office.

Yadav said the Apna Dal (K) had deposited the fee for the programme in Indira Gandhi Pratishthan but was denied permission due to a conspiracy by the BJP. Hence, the venue of the conference was shifted to the SP office, he said.

We have assembled to remember Sonelal Patel who launched Apna Dal. His birthplace was Kannauj, which is our karma bhoomi. Our relationship with Apna Dal founder is very old, Akhilesh Yadav said.

Sonelal Patel fought for the dignity of the deprived communities. He even took risks and was attacked in Allahabad during a programme. He had to undergo treatment for several years for recovery. We should vow to follow in his footsteps and realize his dreams. This will be true tribute to mass leader, the SP chief said.

Apna Dal (K) president Krishna Patel said the conference on caste census is a real tribute to Sonelal Patel. Caste census will end discrimination against the backward communities, she said, adding that the parties using other backward classes (OBCs) as a vote-bank will get a befitting reply in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections.

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A car moves through a neighborhood in West Austin that lost power on 18 February 2021 during blackouts that left millions of Texans without power or heat following a devastating winter storm. Photo: Jordan Vonderhaar / The Texas Tribune

By Emily Foxhall, Kai Elwood-dieu, and Zach Despart

25 May 2023

(Texas Tribune)  State Rep. Jared Patterson disagreed with his Republican colleague that Texas should keep supporting the booming renewable energy industry here.

Rep. John Smithee was arguing on the House floor in early May that certain solar and wind farms should be eligible for school tax breaks. A similar program the state offered for the past 20 years drew renewable energy projects to rural parts of Texas, including Smithees Amarillo district.

Patterson, whose district north of Dallas as of late last year had no wind turbines and barely any solar generation, shot back: Renewable power companies get enough help from federal tax credits already.

Are you saying that we need to add more incentives for wind and solar for them to build? Patterson asked in disbelief.

After decades of support for renewable energy made Texas able to produce more wind power than any other state, its political leaders have turned against wind and solar. This year, theyre pushing through legislation to prop up fossil fuel-burning power plants instead.

What they decide could have lasting consequences by raising the cost of electricity and spurring the construction of gas-powered plants that will produce carbon emissions for decades.

Right now, the wind blows strongly against renewables, and thats where we are, said Bill Miller, a longtime lobbyist in Austin.

Wind and solar energy production by county in Texas. Data: ERCOT and Texas Tribune analysis. Graphic: Kai Elwood-Dieu / The Texas Tribune

The about-face by Texas elected officials came after renewable energy got so big that it threatened coal- and gas-fueled power in the countrys biggest oil and gas state. Cheap electricity from wind turbines and solar panels provided about 26% of electricity in Texas last year, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, up from 0.7% in 2002.

At the same time, renewable energy has become intensely politicized. Texas Republicans condemned the federal Green New Deal pushed in 2019 by Democrats because it aimed to end the burning of fossil fuels for electricity. Politicians here rarely discuss the need for reducing greenhouse gas emissions, though the state suffers from climate change and the hotter summers, stronger hurricanes and heavier rains it has brought.

In 2021, Gov. Greg Abbott and other state leaders ramped up their criticism of renewables  and gave fossil fuel power plants a strong endorsement  after a devastating winter storm knocked out power for millions of Texans and killed hundreds of people.

It was a deeply embarrassing political episode. Oklahoma and Louisiana, neighboring states that are part of one of the nations two major power grids, dealt with similar freezing weather during the storm without the same disastrous results. (Most of Texas is served by a separate grid that has limited connections to the two large national grids.)

Furious residents wanted something to blame. Abbott and other elected Republicans furnished a culprit: renewables. The governor criticized wind and solar generation as unreliable in times of crisis; Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller proclaimed another wind turbine should never be built in Texas.

Solar- and wind-energy production in Texas, 1999-2023. Wind and solar energy production by county in Texas. The ability to create electricity from the wind and sun in the Texas market has surged since 1999, with solar power infrastructure growing rapidly since 2017. Data: ERCOT. Graphic: Kai Elwood-Dieu / The Texas Tribune

In truth, all types of power generators failed during the winter storm in Texas. But many state politicians said that more money needed to go toward building more on demand electricity to solve the problem. That meant the kind of power that didnt rely on wind or sun, such as gas-powered electricity plants or batteries.

During this years legislative session, lobbyists for gas-fueled electricity generation companies such as NRG, Calpine and Vistra told legislators they needed to be able to make more money in the states electricity market if they were going to build and operate the new plants lawmakers said they wanted. [more]

Texas power struggle: How the nations top wind power state turned against renewable energy.
Mumbai: The history of Maharashtra politics repeated itself after three years and eight months on Sunday when Ajit Pawar took oath as the deputy chief minister for the fifth time. The last time this happenedon November 23, 2019Ajits hole-and-corner tryst with the BJP and his ministership lasted for a few days. Maharashtra deputy CMs Devendra Fadnavis (left) and Ajit Pawar on Sunday (Anshuman Poyrekar/HT Photo)

On Sunday, Ajit went in for action replay but this time with the support of over 40 of the NCPs 53 MLAs. He chose to split the party even as his uncle, NCP supremo Sharad Pawar, was busy getting all opposition parties together to take on the BJP. Sundays development is also about the nephew trying to outsmart his uncle in the long-standing cold war between the two.

Ajit (63) became deputy CM in November 2010 for the first time after flexing his muscle and thwarting his uncles plan to again give the position to the partys heavyweight Chhagan Bhujbal. In a surprise move, he resigned in September 2012, following allegations against him in an irrigation scam, but came back within three months after obtaining a clean chit for himself from the then Congress-NCP government.

Despite being in numerous controversies, the seven-term MLA enjoys a significant following among legislators and cadres alike. An expert in electoral management and a resourceful leader, he groomed many MLAs and even helped them to get elected. Even after the arrival of Pawars daughter, Supriya Sule, he was regarded as number two in the party. He is always available to party MLAs and workers, and involved in the day-to-day activities of the party, said an NCP leader. Thats why most MLAs are with him.

Ajits intention of taking over the party was no secret. It came into the open when he tried to silence leaders and workers who were persuading Sharad Pawar to take back his resignation as party chief on May 2.

Ajits rebellion will change the political equations in the NCP-Congress stronghold of western Maharashtra. He has a good following there and knows the powerful cooperation sector, which is the backbone of the regions economy. The BJP is desperate to make inroads into the sector, and with Ajit on board, it will be easier for it to vie for the 11 Lok Sabha and over 60 assembly seats in western Maharashtra. In fact, even Supriya Sules Lok Sabha seat could be in danger, as it was Ajit who has been handling affairs in Baramati, the Pawar familys pocket borough. This is the reason the NCP was moving cautiously, and attempts were made till the last moment to persuade him not to leaveindeed, Sule visited Ajits official residence twice to convince him.

Leaders close to him said that Sules elevation as working president in May had forced his decision. It led to a direct conflict between the two, as she was also put in charge of the Maharashtra unit, said a senior leader. The decision denied Ajit the free hand he had been enjoying for years.

Ajits ambitions extend to the chief ministership. He was close to the post in 2004 when the NCP won two seats more than the Congresshowever, Pawar conceded the post to the Congress in exchange for more cabinet berths. A determined Ajit ensured support among the MLAs and arm-twisted his uncle to make him deputy chief minister in 2010. Since then, he has taken oath as deputy CM four more times.

Ajit would have loved to be in Shindes position, said a key BJP leader. He was in touch with BJP leaders when Shinde was negotiating with them in 2022. He would have preferred a better deal for himself but with the Enforcement Directorate probing cases involving his family members, he doesnt have much option than to join the government now.

Besides, he will have something else to deal with: His uncle. Pawar on Sunday vowed to fight. It remains to be seen who scores this time. Will it be the uncle or the nephew?

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Pune/Mumbai: With at least 37 of his 53 MLAs defecting and joining hands with the BJP-Sena government in Maharashtra, Sharad Pawar, 82, said he would not be pursuing a legal battle, choosing instead to go to the people directly. There is no need to fight this battle legally, and neither do I have any issues if someone claims ownership over the NCP. We will go to people and seek their support. I am confident they will support us, said Sharad Pawar on Sunday evening hours after his nephew claimed that the NCP would ally with the BJP in the 2024 Lok Sabha and Maharashtra Assembly elections. Mumbai, July 02 (ANI): Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) chief Sharad Pawar addresses a press conference on party leader Ajit Pawar joining the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) government and taking oath as Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra, in Mumbai on Sunday. (ANI Photo) (ANI)

Among the 37 NCP MLAs who have defected-- and that number is likely to go up in the next few daysare some of Pawars closest aides, Dilip Walse-Patil and Chhagan Bhujbal. But, Pawar said he was undeterred by the split and that he would rebuild his party from scratch.

The Maratha leader who has spent over 5 decades in politics said such a crisis was not new to him. In 1980 too, when he had tried to split the Congress to form a government in alliance with the Left parties, 52 of the 58 MLAs dissented and refused to go with his plan. However just two years later he went on to become Maharashtras youngest chief minister with a whopping 79 MLAs.

On Sunday, even as Ajit Pawar was telling the media in Mumbai that he had the blessing of the entire party, speaking from his Modi Baug residence in Pune Sharad Pawar announced that he intended to rebuild his political base from the very next day. His first public meeting, he said, would be in Karad, Satara, on Monday which will start with him paying tribute at the memorial of his mentor, YB Chavan.

Jitendra Awhad, the NCP MLA from Mumbra-Kalwa, was announced as the new Leader of Opposition in Assembly, replacing Ajit Pawar. By evening, his daughter and Baramati MP Supriya Sule had reached the NCP headquarter at Rashtrawadi Bhavan at Ballard Estate with her husband Sadanand Sule and children Revati and Vijay. Two weeks ago, she had been appointed as the executive president of the NCP in anticipation of exactly such a rebellion. She was accompanied by several party workers from all over the city who defaced Ajit Pawars posters outside the office. In a closed door meeting, where she reportedly broke down, an emotional Sule appealed to the remaining party workers and leader to stick together. She was later joined by Anil Deshmukh who flew in from Nagpur and Jayant Patil who arrived from Pune. Those who have left the party are crows, said an angry party worker outside the NCP headquarter, while those of us who remain with Pawar saab are like Shivajis soldier. (Gele te kavle, rahile te mavle).

Sharad Pawar in his press briefing also took pot-shots at Prime Minister Modi: I am happy that he has absolved some NCP colleagues of corruption charges as they are now inducted as ministers in the government, he said referring to the PMs remarks last week in Bhopal where he had accused the NCP and its leaders of being embroiled in corruption.

The NCP chief however hinted that he will be taking action against senior leaders Praful Patel and Sunil Tatkare. As NCP president, I had appointed Praful Patel and Sunil Tatkare but they did not follow their responsibilities therefore I have to take some action against them if they do not resign from their current posts, he said. Praful Patel, had been elected as the working president the same time as Supriya Sules elevation, while Tatkare was made the partys general secretary.

When asked about the impact of the split in his family, Pawar said, I will never say that my home has split, this issue is not regarding my family, this is about the people of Maharashtra. I am also worried about the future of those who left the party. I want to give the credit for this to PM Modi. Two days ago, he had made certain statements and after that statement these people began feeling uneasy as some of them were facing ED investigation.

He added that in this time of crisis, national opposition leaders like Mamata Banerjee and Mallikarjun Kharge had reached to him promising their support and he said that he would be participating in all national opposition meetings in future.

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Former Tripura chief minister and Communist Party of India (Marxist) (CPM) Politburo member Manik Sarkar on Saturday demanded that a judicial enquiry be done to unearth the reasons behind the electrocution of seven people during Ulto Rath (return of Lord Jagannaths chariot) at Kumarghat in Tripuras Unakoti district. Communist Party of India (Marxist) member and former Tripura CM Manik Sarkar (File Photo)

On Wednesday (June 28) seven people, including three women and two children, were electrocuted to death and another 16 were injured after the crest of a chariot came in contact with high-tension power transmission lines during the procession.

Sarkars statement came 72 hours after chief minister Manik Shah ordered a magisterial enquiry into the incident.

The chief minister, who met with the injured people in the hospital after the accident, ordered a magisterial enquiry and also announced compensation. Meanwhile, on Friday, a three-member team of CPM leaders headed by Sarkar visited Kumarghat and met family members of the deceased persons, and injured persons, admitted in the Kumarghat sub-divisional hospital.

The team also visited the incident spot and later met with police officials, power department officials, PWD officials, International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) temple administration.

ISKCON has also started an internal probe to unearth the reasons leading to the mishap.

After leaving Kumarghat, the team met injured people who were referred to Govind Ballabh Pant (GBP) hospital in Agartala.

We know that the chief minister has ordered a magisterial probe into the incident. But we feel that judicial enquiry is needed in this case. We also demand to identify those who were actually responsible for the incident and take legal action against them, Sarkar told the reporters at CPM headquarters in Agartala.

He further demanded government jobs for each of the dead persons families along with taking responsibility for the education of the children who lost their parents in the mishap to higher secondary level, providing financial assistance to the families of the injured ones till they become fit enough to rejoin their work and others.

We also feel that the state government should bring out any guideline regarding processions taken out during different festivals including rath yatra to avoid such incidents in future, said Sarkar.

The state government, earlier, announced a compensation of Rs. 4 lakhs for all the deceased peoples families along with Rs.2.5 lakhs for those who got over 60% burn injuries and Rs. 75,000 to those who sustained 40-60% burn injuries in the incident.

In addition, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced Rs. 2 lakhs for each of the dead persons family and Rs. 50,000 for the injured ones from the Prime Ministers Relief Fund.

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PRAYAGRAJ In line with chief minister Yogi Adityanaths direction, the principal secretary (home) and the director general of police (DGP) have given necessary orders regarding the preparations for safely conducting the Kanwar Yatra. The orders were given on Saturday during a detailed review meeting that was attended by the officials of Prayagraj, Kanpur, Jhansi, and Chitrakoot divisions. Ghats being cleaned ahead of the Kanwar Yatra in Prayagraj (HT Photo)

Devotees, kanwarias, and visitors should not face any kind of inconvenience during Kanwar Yatra, said principal secretary Sanjay Prasad. He said that along with installing CCTVs on ghats, routes and Shiva temples, public address systems should also be put in place. The official added that authorities concerned should ensure cleanliness, proper lighting, drinking water and other necessary arrangements on ghats, temples and Kanwar Yatra routes. There should be continuous patrolling on Kanwar routes and ghats, he further said.

At the review meeting, which was attended by the divisional commissioner, commissioner of police, dstrict magistrates, and superintendents of police, Prasad directed officials of all the districts concerned to ensure proper arrangements of mobile toilets and lighting along with maintaining arrangements for divers and Jal police at the ghats. He also instructed them to make the arrangement of water barricading at the ghats bordering deep water.

Prasad further directed them to keep the roads, on which the Kanwariya would pass, in proper condition as well as to clean the drains built on the side of these roads. Along with ensuring adequate availability of anti-venom and other essential medicines in the CHCs and PHCs falling on the Kanwar route, he also gave instructions to ensure the presence of doctors compulsorily. He instructed them to make arrangements for a temporary medical camp on Kanwar Yatra route as well.

The principal secretary also ordered officials to maintain all necessary medical facilities in the trauma centres of the hospitals situated along the highways. Along with keeping special vigil at sensitive places, he gave orders to maintain proper arrangements for crowd management, CCTV. He asked officials to make sure that help from the volunteers is taken for the successful conduct of the Kanwar Yatra as per the requirement. He also gave instructions to maintain the system of continuous patrolling on Kanwar Routes and ghats.

Likewise, the DGP, Vijay Kumar while directing the authorities in the meeting, said that timely issuance of traffic advisory and deployment of women police on ghats and kanwar routes should be ensured as per requirement. The senior cop asked them to keep special monitoring and arrangements on stretches falling on the kanwar routes. He also instructed them to put up signage at blind turns on Kanwar Yatra routes.

In the meeting, ADG Prayagraj Zone Bhanu Bhaskar, Prayagraj Divisional Commissioner Vijay Vishwas Pant, IG Chandra Prakash, Prayagraj Police Commissioner Ramit Sharma, District Magistrate-Prayagraj Sanjay Kumar Khatri and senior officers of other divisions gave detailed information about the arrangements made in view of the Kanwar Yatra.
The Suheldev Bharatiya Samaj Party (SBSP) led by Om Prakash Rajbhar on Saturday dropped hints of edging closer to the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on the eve of Union home minister Amit Shahs Lucknow visit and indicated the partys support for the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) that Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently referred to. Union home minister Amit Shah (File Photo)

The SBSP leaders also targeted the opposition parties for not implementing the report of the social justice committee when they were in power.

The governments push for a Uniform Civil Code, seen by many analysts as a sharply polarising issue, seems to have already polarised the opposition parties, with some openly supporting the move, and others strongly opposed to it.

The SBSP will play a crucial role in deciding who gets to the Delhi throne as our party has an effective presence in more than 30 Lok Sabha seats in UP. That is why our cadres need to maintain an effective booth-level presence, Om Prakash Rajbhar said at a party meeting in Lucknow on Saturday.

Also Read: Afternoon brief: Mayawati supports UCC, hits out at BJPs politics, and all the latest news

SBSP chief general secretary Arvind Rajbhar said, Our party will support each law and each move that helps the country.

UCC talks of one common civil code for the country, and this is in line with the spirit of the Constitution too, Arvind Rajbhar said, in a broad indication of the partys political inclination ahead of Shahs arrival.

Recently after his US trip, Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the BJP booth workers in Bhopal during which he made a strong case for the implementation of UCC.

UCC refers to a common set of laws governing personal matters like marriage, divorce, inheritance and adoption, among others, of all citizens. In the Constitution, UCC is a part of the non-justiciable directive principles of state policy. In a 2018 consultation paper, the law commission said UCC was neither necessary nor desirable at this stage. In the Constitution, it is a part of the non-justiciable directive principles of state policy. In a 2018 consultation paper, the law commission said UCC was neither necessary nor desirable at this stage.

Shah, as the then BJP chief, had inked a pact with the SBSP ahead of the 2017 UP assembly elections. After the BJP swept the polls, Rajbhar was made a cabinet minister in the first cabinet of chief minister Yogi Adityanath.

Also Read: UCC against idea of India, says Meghalaya CM and BJP ally Conrad Sangma

However, the alliance between the two ended just after the 2019 Lok Sabha polls, as Rajbhar accused the BJP of not implementing the social justice committee report.

The SBSP contested the 2022 UP assembly polls in alliance with the Samajwadi Party (SP), however, it fell out with the SP after the elections. Now, the SBSP is dropping hints of getting close to the BJP again ahead of the 2024 Lok Sabha polls.

Those parties, which never remembered to implement the report of the social justice committee when they were in power, start talking of it when they are out of power, Rajbhar said at the event in an apparent reference to the SP.
An official of the food services stall at Bihar's Bhagalpur on Saturday claimed that only vegetarian food will be served in the month of Sawan and non-vegetarian food will be stopped from July 4. IRCTC manages catering service for Indian Railways along with selling tickets online and selling packaged water.(Arijit Sen/HT Photo)

Informing about the decision, the manager of the food services stall, Pankaj Kumar, told news agency ANI that the food will be served without onion and garlic. In addition, fruits will also be offered to the passengers. Cleanliness will be taken care of, he added.

However, the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation or IRCTC in a statement to Hindustan Times clarified that no such instructions have been issued. All approved items are available for sale to passengers from the food unit.

Sawan, also known as Shravan, is the fifth month of the Hindu lunar calendar and one of the holiest months of the year. It is marked by spiritual devotion, fasting, and celebration by millions of Hindus across India and other parts of the world. Usually, it falls in July and August, around the time of the arrival of the monsoon season.

This year, it will start on July 4 and will continue till August 31. It will be 59 days long, and there will be eight Sawan Mondays or Somwars instead of the usual four every year- a phenomenon taking place after 19 years.

July 10 marks the first fasting Monday of the period this year, while August 28 marks the last Monday fast of the period.

Apart from the Sawan Somwar vrats (fasts), the Kanwar Yatra is also a significant part of this month. The ritual involves devotees of Lord Shiva carrying water from holy rivers in small pots called Kanwars, wearing saffron-coloured clothes, and walking on foot to sacred places associated with Lord Shiva to symbolise their devotion and dedication.

In view of the Kanwar Yatra, the Haridwar district administration has banned the flying of drones by the public in Har ki Pauri and its surrounding areas from July 4 to July 17. Moreover, even helicopters will not be able to fly in restricted areas. As per officials, only the drones of the police administration engaged in security will fly for surveillance.
As Ajit Pawar and some other Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) leaders joined the Maharashtra government, the maximum impact of this development will be seen in Pune district and Western Maharashtra politics which is the partys base. As Ajit Pawar and some other Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) leaders joined the Maharashtra government, the maximum impact of this development will be seen in Pune district and Western Maharashtra politics (HT FILE PHOTO)

Pune district has ten MLAS, of which, eight are most likely to join Ajit Pawar, said a party leader.

The impact will start from BJP leader Chandrakant Patil. Patil is the guardian minister of Pune and Kolhapur district. As Ajit Pawar has taken oath as the deputy chief minister, he will prefer the post of Pune district guardian minister, and there are chances that Hasan Mushrif will ask the guardian minister post for Kolhapur.

Pawar on Sunday announced that there will be many changes as several MLAs joined Pawar and will prefer getting tickets.

NCP MLA from Indapur, Dattatray Bharne who is a close friend of Ajit Dada will prefer to get ticket at the same time BJP leader Harshawardhan Patil who joined a few years ago will ask for the same seat, stated political observers.

According to political observers, in many districts, there is a tussle between Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and NCP. As the NCP becomes a part of the current Shinde-led government, many political equations will change in western Maharashtra in the coming days.

However, some political leaders are of the view that the alliance between NCP and BJP will be beneficial in western Maharashtra as the NCP has a strong base in the region as compared to BJP. This will be the support for BJP.

Some NCP leaders stated that despite several NCP MLAs backed Ajit Pawar, the partys cadre and citizens have faith in Sharad Pawar.

Political observers stated that senior Pawars moves in the coming days will decide the fate of western Maharashtra.
Soon after senior Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) leader Ajit Pawar and several other party leaders joined the BJP-Shiv Sena government in Maharashtra, many party workers in Baramati held celebrations on Sunday. Soon after senior NCP eader Ajit Pawar joined the BJP-Shiv Sena government in Maharashtra, many party workers in Baramati held celebrations on Sunday. (HT PHOTO)

Junior Pawar, who is affectionately known as dada or elder brother, is a favourite among party workers in Baramati.

For us Ajit dada is our guardian, just like Sharad Pawar had been for us for many years, said Sanket Aware, who runs a grocery shop. Aware, like many other supporters who have been voting for Ajit for many years, said they will always back him without any disrespect to Sharad Pawar.

Amar Mahadik, NCP leader, who works closely with Ajit at the local level in Baramati, claimed around 80 per cent of the workers are with junior Pawar.

We all have great respect for Sharad Pawar Saheb but we also know that if the region has to develop and the party has to progress, theres no alternative than Ajit dada, Mahadik said.

The people of Baramati have great respect for the Pawar family, and they see Ajit as the worthy successor to his uncle (Sharad Pawar) in a town of around 70,000 population which has always been a bastion of the NCP. Regardless of Pawar juniors political affiliations, the people of Baramati say they are likely to support him.

Sharad Pawar, his nephew Ajit, and his daughter Supriya Sule have been dominating Baramati, around 250 kilometres from Mumbai, for five decades. The region, scarred by drought, has progressively integrated itself with the industrialisation and prosperous sugar belt of Western Maharashtra.

Despite the controversies, Ajit has managed to maintain a hold over his constituency. He has undertaken several development projects in the town, including the construction of roads, schools, and hospitals.
The Palamau Tiger Reserve (PTR) in Jharkhand, one of the first nine tiger reserves of the country, is in the process of developing around 2000-hectare land of Budha Pahad area into a grassland dotted with waterholes besides developing a soft release centre of spotted deer, officials familiar with the matter said. (Representative Photo)

The development would be a huge boost for Budha Pahad, once an impregnable fortress of the outlawed Maoists on the western flank of Jharkhand sharing the border with Chhattisgarh, which also acts as the buffer zone of the PTR.

According to the forest department officials, the idea behind the project is to increase the prey base for the predators in the local ecosystem. A proposal has been sent for approval to the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA), said Ashutosh Kumar, field director, PTR.

We traditionally have had a good number of leopards in the area. The area is also a part of the tiger corridor that stretches from Chhattisgarh to Maharashtra. Therefore, we have decided to increase the prey base in the area that could hold the predators in the area, added Kumar.

Also Read: Wildlife Bureau issues red alert against poachers, hunters in all tiger reserves

The officer said the entire foothill of the Budha Pahar area, which would be around 2000 hectares on the Jharkhand side, would be developed into grassland besides putting in place a soft release centre.

We would construct earthen check dams and ponds to ensure the animals get water round the year and serve as a habitat for different animals. Apart from that a soft release centre, which would be fenced by barbed wires for Chitals, would be developed. They would breed in the centre and would gradually be released in the wild, added Kumar.

Budha Pahad, the mountainous terrain once dotted by land mines installed by the Maoists, was freed from the clutches of the extremist group in 2022 after months-long special operation by the security forces.

Situated around 150 km from the state capital Ranchi, the Burha Pahad area, a mountainous terrain spread across the junction of Garhwa and Latehar districts in Jharkhand and Balrampur district in Chhattisgarh, was considered an impregnable fortress of the Maoists group, whose top leaders used this terrain as their hideout for over 5three decades.

Following a joint operation by the Jharkhand Police and Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) to clear the area of rebels, then Jharkhand police chief Neeraj Sinha landed at Budha Pahad hilltop on September 18 in a symbolic gesture announcing the states control over the area.

On January 27, 2023, chief minister Hemant Soren landed in the area becoming the first Jharkhand chief minister to visit Budha Pahad. He launched a series of development projects for the area that had remained disconnected from the mainstream. The security forces are also setting up multiple camps and constructing temporary roads in different pockets to make the hilltops accessible.

Forest department officials said implementing new projects in the area would not be a problem as their movement in the area has eased in the past one year.

We traditionally have had eco-village committees in the area. The forest department officials used to man the area in association with these village committees. However, with Naxal activities having almost seized, these projects wont take much time to kick off once they are approved, an official said.

Though PTR is one of the first notified tiger reserves, the tiger population has gradually gone down in the facility over the years.

In January this year, a sub-adult male tiger was spotted and captured on a mobile camera in the Kutku range of the reserve after almost three years.

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Education Centre of Australia (ECA Group) on Saturday launched OpenLearning Bharat with an aim of empowering students through inclusive and accessible education. Education Centre Australia launches OpenLearning Bharat

The OpenLearning Bharat platform has been "designed to unlock the full potential of every student" using cutting-edge technology and expertise of top educators, ECA said in a press statement.

"The mission is to bring about a revolution in higher education and online learning in India. While online learning has seen a remarkable surge in participation, the cost of accessing quality education continues to be a major obstacle for students from lower and middle-class backgrounds. This event seeks to tackle the critical issue of ensuring sustainable and expanded access to affordable world-class education for students in India," it said.

The platform offers a diverse range of highly sought-after courses, including Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, Machine Learning, Cybersecurity, and more, ECA has informed.

Rupesh Singh, Founder & CEO, Education Centre of Australia (ECA Group), said, "...at Education Centre of Australia (ECA Group), we are excited to be part of this transformative journey. As founder of ECA Group, I firmly believe that access to quality education should not be limited by financial constraints. OpenLearning Bharat, with its in-demand courses in Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, Machine Learning, Cybersecurity, and more, aims to bridge the gap and empower students from all backgrounds.

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U.S. Sen. Tommy Tuberville (R-Alabama) traveled throughout the state of Alabama with stops in Dothan, Pelham, and Orange Beach last week.

Tuberville also visited Fort Novosel, where he took an aerial tour and met with brave men and woman upholding Alabamas long tradition of military excellence.

In Dothan, Tuberville met with local mayors and leaders at the Dothan Chamber of Commerce. During the visit, the leaders discussed ways to stimulate growth and development throughout the Wiregrass region.

On Tuesday in Pelham, Tuberville shared an update with over 500 business and community leaders from Central Alabama at the Washington Update Luncheon co-hosted by the Shelby County/Hoover Area Chambers of Commerce. Tuberville spoke regarding his work in Washington D.C. including his efforts to stop taxpayer-funded abortions, secure major wins for Alabama in next years defense bill, combat the growing threat of China in the U.S. financial system, provide care to Alabamas 400,000 veterans, and ensure the voices of Alabamas farmers are heard in the 2023 Farm Bill.

On Wednesday, in Orange Beach, Tuberville met with local mayors and leaders to provide an update on his efforts in Washington and discuss innovative ways to grow and develop Alabamas Gulf Coast.

Tuberville represents Alabama in the United States Senate and is a member of the Senate Armed Services, Agriculture, Veterans Affairs, and HELP Committees.
Rumoured ex-couple and actors Tiger Shroff and Disha Patani made a public appearance together for the first time since their alleged breakup. The duo recently also flew together from Mumbai to Delhi on the same flight. They arrived together at the event in the capital city on Saturday. In several videos, that emerged online, Tiger Shroff and Disha sat next to each other and also shared conversations. (Also Read | Exclusive! Splitsville for Tiger Shroff and Disha Patani?) Tiger Shroff and Disha Patani at a Delhi event.

Tiger and Disha arrive at event together

In a video, Tiger arrived at the Delhi event with Disha walking behind him as the security persons made way for them. However, they posed separately for the paparazzi. While Tiger gave poses for the camera, Disha waited and when he walked away, she posed for the lens. For the event, Tiger wore a black T-shirt, matching pants and shoes. Disha opted for a cropped purple top, white pants and sneakers. Both of them wore dark sunglasses.

Disha and Tiger sat together

After reaching the event, Disha and Tiger sat next to each other. Tiger's sister Krishna Shroff sat next to Disha while their mother Ayesha Shroff sat behind the actor. In several pictures, Disha and Krishna Shroff laughed and gave different expressions as they posed for the camera. Krishna was seen in an all-black outfit. Several people sat with them including Danny Dangzogpa's son Ringzing Dangzogpa. In a video, Disha was seen turning back and talking with Tiger. They were seen leaving the event separately.

Disha and Tiger flew to Delhi on same aircraft

Earlier, a fan page posted a video on Twitter featuring Disha and Tiger. In the clip, the duo along with Ringzing sat inside an aircraft. The video, recorded by Disha, showed Ringzing sitting opposite her while Tiger sat next to him. While Disha made goofy poses, Ringzing smiled in the clip. However, Tiger looked away from the camera even though Disha tried to capture his reaction.

Fans react to videos and pictures

Reacting to the clips, a fan wrote, "They are not together bro now. Even on the plane, Tiger was not looking at her directly." A comment read, "Very nice video of the two of you looking, quite lovely I might add." "Lovely couple Tiger and Disha. Jaldi shadi karo (Get married soon)," said another fan. A Twitter user said, "She is trying to be friendly, he is just showing attitude." A person asked, "Does this mean they are back together?"

Disha and Tiger dated for a long time

Last month, on Disha's birthday, Tiger penned a note for her. On Instagram Stories, he shared a throwback picture and wrote, "Only the best times ahead! Keep spreading your wings and love and laughter always. Happy birthday @dishapatani." On Tiger's birthday in March, Disha shared a picture of the actor and captioned it, "Stay the most beautiful and inspiring you. Happy b'day tiggy." Tiger was rumoured to be dating Disha for a long time. The couple was well-known for their Sunday lunch dates at restaurants and were frequently sighted together. Although they never officially confirmed their relationship, rumours also suggested that they've broken up now.

Disha and Tiger's upcoming projects

Tiger will be seen in Bade Miyan Chote Miyan, directed by Ali Abbas Zafar, with Akshay Kumar. The action thriller also stars Prithviraj Sukumaran. He will also be seen in Vikas Bahl's upcoming action thriller Ganpath Part 1, opposite Kriti Sanon.

Disha is all set to collaborate with Suriya for an upcoming project. Helmed by Siruthai Siva, the film is tentatively titled Suriya 42. Disha will also be seen in producer Karan Johar's next action film Yodha opposite Sidharth Malhotra. She also has Project K alongside Amitabh Bachchan, Prabhas, and Deepika Padukone.

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Actor Sreejita De has shared the first official pictures from her wedding ceremony in Germany. She took to Instagram to share the beautiful photos from her white wedding with boyfriend Michael Blohm-Pape which was officiated in a stunning chapel. (Also read: Bigg Boss 16s Sreejita De to marry fiance Michael Blohm-Pape on July 1) Sreejita De and Michael Blohm-Pape are married.

The dreamy wedding pics

Sharing the photos Sreejita wrote, Today we celebrate the beginning of forever, hand in hand. The first photo showed her and Michael looking at the altar in the church. She is in a pristine white gown while he is in a black suit. The second photo offers a better look at their faces. Sreejita has minimal makeup on and is wearing a diamond necklace. The third picture shows them sharing a kiss after the ceremony.

Many celebrities wished the couple on their big day. Sreejita's Bigg Boss co-contestant Shiv Thakare wrote, Congratulations. Archana Gautam wrote, Congratulations yara. Actor Narayani Shastri commented, Congratulations my love. A fan wrote, Sooooo pretty congratulations to both of you.

What she planned for the wedding

Speaking to Hindustan Times about her wedding, Sreejita had said, My idea was always to have an intimate, close-knit wedding. The wedding in Hamburg will be held on July 1 whereas in October end, we will organise the rituals in India, and of course, with a long list of ceremonies. My sasural people are way too excited for the Indian wedding function as they want to be part of all the rituals including haldi, mehendi. I am tired of explaining the purpose of all the ceremonies."

Experience with Bigg Boss

Sreejita took part in Bigg Boss 16 and Michael even paid her a visit inside the home during her stay in the house. Speaking about the Bigg Boss experience, she said to HT, There is no script, and you are left to live with people you might know a bit or dont know at all. But it was fun, I enjoyed it because I always find my tribe. And I dont carry the baggage of negativity. If I get to work with people with whom I dont gel at some point, I will still manage without slightest of apprehension.

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Days after she was voted out of the ongoing reality show Bigg Boss OTT 2, Aaliya Siddiqui has opened up on allegations of playing the victim card when she was inside the house. Insisting that she would have been after the "husband's money" had she done that, Aaliya also claimed that it is filmmaker-actor Pooja Bhatt who is actually playing the victim card on the Salman Khan show. Aaliya was recently evicted from the reality show. (Also read| Bigg Boss OTT 2: Angry Salman Khan reacts to the 'kiss', leaves show) Pooja Bhatt is using her father's name on Bigg Boss OTT 2, alleges Aaliya Siddiqui.

Pooja urged Aaliya to stop using victim card

Aaliya is a film producer who has been mainly in the news for her legal fights with actor-husband Nawazuddin Siddiqui. Earlier on Bigg Boss OTT 2, Pooja had nominated Aaliya saying that she plays the victim card, using her husband's name.

Aaliya insists she's not playing victim

Talking to ETimes, Aaliya said it is Pooja's thinking that she plays the victim card but she never claimed to be a bechari. Main bechari banke kabhi nahi aayi this (I was never a helpless person).. had I been a bechari (helpless) I would have never been on this show. I was brought on BB OTT because they felt Im a fighter and can raise my voice against injustice and maybe thats the reason Im on the show. Had I been a bechari I would have filed a case against my husband, made a lot of money. She added that she's had a Dubai house for herself and roamed around in luxury cars. She also said that she left her husbands property on her own and she has only asked for a house which is her basic need.

'Pooja's playing the victim card'

Aaliya added that it is Pooja who has been playing the victim card, using her father's name. (Pooja keeps saying)Main Mahesh Bhatt ki beti hoon, arre bhai aap khud Pooja Bhatt ho ('I am Mahesh Bhatt's daughter', you are a known name - Pooja Bhatt), you are in yourself a renowned actress and famous personality, why do you need your fathers tag? Shes playing the victim card and not me. Yeda Ban ke peda kha rahe hai (They are trying to enjoy all benefits by acting all innocent).

She also said that she calls herself Nawazuddin Siddiquis wife as she has done much else in the public eye, but Pooja has her own identity and she must not address herself as Mahesh Bhatts daughter. Aaliya also said that even Falaq Naaz is using her brother Sheezan Khan's name and playing the victim card.

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On Sunday, Salman Khan announced Akanksha Puri's exit from the house of Bigg Boss OTT 2. Her eviction comes after her steamy kiss with Jad Hadid on live camera during a task.' This week Abhishek Malhan, Jiya Shankar and Akanksha Puri were nominated to leave the show. Also read: Palak Purswani reacts to Jad Hadid's bum-baring episode, wants action against him Bigg Boss OTT 2: Akanksha Puri evicted from house.

Akanksha Puri evicted

On the other hand, Jad has been punished by host Salman Khan for his recent behaviours and will be facing nominations next week. Akanksha, Jiya and Abhishek were taken to the BBVerse and given a task. They were asked to decide who between them should exit the show. The longer they took, the more the rest of the housemates would lose. Abhishek and Akanksha took Jiya's name and Jiya chose Akanksha. They debated for a long time before Salman announced that Akanksha would be evicted.

Jad to face nominations

Jad is likely to be out next week. He went to nominations after Salman Khan strongly reacted to two incidents in the house involving Jad. He kissed Akanksha Puri for 30 seconds. Following this, he showed his behind to Bebika Dhurve during a big argument. She told him to reveal his true self to the world. Jad showed her his butt to talk to it. The clip was censored by the producers.

Salman reacts to Jad's behaviour

Salman Khan told Jad, "Try this in Abu Dhabi, try this in the GCC belt, try this in Saudi Arabia." Jad apologised, "Sir it was a mistake. I admit it." Salman continued, "When did you say it was a mistake? Right now?" Jad added, "No no no. I said it straight away but she (Bebika) wasn't in a mood that I could approach her."

Salman also told Jad Hadid, A lot of people may not find anything wrong with what you did. But a lot of people may find it offensive. It (India) is a very conservative country. ... It's also a very forgiving country. We all have been forgiven by the people of this country a million times. And you? They loved you. The way you were, even though they did not understand the language, they loved you, they loved Abdu (Rozik)... till these two incidences. Leave aside the kiss incident, this is the bummer.

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Salman Khan has reacted strongly to the two incidents, involving Jad Hadid inside the Bigg Boss OTT 2 house, during the Weekend ka Vaar episode. The actor, who currently hosts the show, spoke about the kiss between Jad and Akanksha Puri. He also angrily talked about Jad showing his behind to Bebika Dhurve. (Also Read | Jad Hadid shows his butt to Bebika during fight, Salman Khan says Bigg Boss OTT 2 producers edited it out) Salman Khan schooled Jad Hadid on Bigg Boss OTT 2.

Salman schools Jad

Speaking to Jad, Salman Khan said, "Try this in Abu Dhabi, try this in the GCC belt, try this in Saudi Arabia." Jad replied, "Sir it was a mistake. I admit it." Salman continued, "When did you say it was a mistake? Right now?" Jad added, "No no no. I said it straight away but she (Bebika) wasn't in a mood that I could approach her."

Salman tells Jad that India is a forgiving country

The Bigg Boss OTT 2 host then told Jad, "A lot of people may not find anything wrong with what you did. But a lot of people may find it offensive. It (India) is a very conservative country. ... It's also a very forgiving country. We all have been forgiven by the people of this country a million times. And you? They loved you. The way you were, even though they did not understand the language, they loved you, they loved Abdu (Rozik)... till these two incidences. Leave aside the kiss incident, this is the bummer."

Jad apologises for his behaviour on Bigg Boss OTT 2

Jad told Salman, "I take full blame. I apologise to you, to India, to every member of this house. I am extremely sorry, what I did was unforgivable and it was a huge mistake. And I swear to my daughter's life, I am extremely sorry." Salman told him, "You have a daughter?" Jad kept silent and Salman asked him again, "How old is she?" Jad responded, "Four and a half." The actor added, "Then you understand what I am saying to you. For her, you shouldn't have done this." A Lebanese model living in Dubai, Jad is a divorcee and has a young daughter Cattleya Hadid.

Salman also warned Jad and Akanksha Puri saying the show was not meant for such stunts and if they have to indulge in such activities, they should find another show. The show host also looked upset with Bebika Dhurve, telling her that the way she provokes and pokes everyone was very irritating.

Jad showed Bebika his behind

On the show, while Jad and Jiya Shankar washes dishes in the kitchen, Bebika screamed. Jad said he did not wish to speak with this girl which made Bebika angry. A few moments after they started exchanging barbs, Jad told her to talk to his butt, baring it in front of her. Salman later said that the show's team edited it out.

About Bigg Boss OTT 2

The second season of Bigg Boss OTT, which started on June 17, streams on JioCinema. The contestants who entered the show this season also include Avinash Sachdev, Palak Purswani, Jiya Shankar, Aaliya Siddiqui, Falaq Naazz, Cyrus Broacha, Manisha Rani, Abhishek Malhan, and Pooja Bhatt.

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Former Maharashtra minister Aaditya Thackeray on Sunday said the political developments of Maharashtra -- the split of the Nationalist Congress Party with Ajit Pawar joining the BJP-Shinde government -- indicates once again that chief minister Eknath Shinde is incompetent. The Worli MLA said he won't go into the 'depths of the dirty politics', but will comment on the four main things that he observed. Aaditya Thackeray said in Maharashtra the politics is a battle between the selfish and the principled.

NCP crisis LIVE: Jitendra Awhad replaces Ajit Pawar as LoP in Maharashtra assembly

Shinde MLAs did not get berth, Ajit Pawar's MLAs accommodated

Referring to the Shinde's rebellion last year which toppled the government headed by his father Uddhav Thackeray, Aaditya said those who went with Shinde did not get any ministerial berth while 9 NCP leaders took oath today.

When did it all start? Tracing Ajit Pawar's long history of revolt and rebellion

'Didn't you have a problem with the NCP?'

As the Sena MLAs who went with Eknath Shinde leaving Uddhav said that they were miffed with the Maha Vikas Aghadi -- the alliance of the Sena (undivided) with the Congress and the NCP, Aaditya Thackeray asked how those Sena traitors today had to quietly welcome NCP MLAs to the government.

"The original Gaddaars backstabbed us on the pretext that NCP leaders and ministers from their districts didnt let them work.

Today, the same ones from NCP blamed for being roadblocks, be it in Raigad or Nashik or other districts, were sworn in as Cabinet Ministers those original Gaddaars complaining against them had to quietly welcome them!," Aaditya wrote.

BJPs washing machine': Congress after Ajit Pawar's Maharashtra move splits NCP

'Shinde is as incompetent as ever'

A year of the Shinde-Fadnavis government and the induction of the NCP group only indicated that Eknath Shinde is as incompetent as ever, Aaditya wrote.

'If we distanced from Hindutva then...'

Citing the allegation against Uddhav that by allying with the NCP and the Congress, he distanced from Balasaheb Thackeray's ideology of Hindutva, Aaditya questioned the induction of the same NCP people in the government. "We were blamed by the BJP and the Gaddaars for distancing from Hindutva and our ideologies because we allied politically with the INC and NCP.

What has the Mindhe (Eknath Shinde) gang and BJP distanced itself from today?" Aaditya Thackeray tweeted.

"Its clear from todays politics that the fight is going to be selfish vs principled. Those who have gone, have only gone for selfish reasons, and we will fight for selfless and principled politics!" Aaditya added.

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Mayawati supports Uniform Civil Code but doesn't support BJP's politics Bahujan Samaj Party chief Mayawati on Sunday said her party was not against implementing Uniform Civil Code (UCC), which she believed would lead to communal harmony but slammed the Bharatiya Janata Party for "politicising the issue. Read More BSP chief Mayawati (HT File Photo)

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Disha Patani and Tiger Shroff spotted first time together since breakup

Rumoured ex-couple and actors Tiger Shroff and Disha Patani made a public appearance together for the first time since their alleged breakup. The duo recently also flew together from Mumbai to Delhi on the same flight. Read More

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The fourth day of the second Ashes Test saw an incredible moment during Australia's second innings as Nathan Lyon  who injured his calf during his fielding effort earlier in the Test  braved pain to bat following the fall of the ninth wicket. Read More

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The ransomware attack on the All-India Institute of Medical Sciences prompted the government to formulate a national cybersecurity response framework (NCRF), Indias former national cybersecurity coordinator has said. Former cybersecurity chief says the ransomware attack on AIIMS prompted government to make cyber response framework. (Hindustan Times)

Speaking to HT, Lt Gen Rajesh Pant, who took over in 2019 and held the top cybersecurity job till June 30, said the attack was shone a spotlight on the need to protect critical infrastructure.

Also Read | The AIIMS attack shows the importance of a robust cybersecurity framework

It was realised that critical sectors need to have a uniform framework to respond to cybersecurity, said Pant. So, the NCRF was conceptualised. It will be put in the public domain for critical infrastructure, such as those in the power and health sectors to implement.

The framework outlines an architecture of a cyber defence system, the former NCRF chief said, and specifies trusted companies and supply chain mechanisms.

On the morning of November 23, the systems at AIIMS and its centres were corrupted by the cyberattack, which wiped outpatient and research data from its primary and backup servers.

Also Read | Ransomware attack: Cyber terrorism probe as AIIMS services paralysed

The Delhi Polices Intelligence Fusion and Strategic Operations (IFSO) cell filed an FIR invoking sections of cyber terrorism against unknown people, even as teams from the National Informatics Centre and Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-In) launched an investigation into the incident.

According to Pant, the AIIMS attack exposed loopholes in the cyber defence systems and several lessons have been drawn from it to better prepare the critical information infrastructure and address vulnerabilities. The manner in which the network was architected, was not done by professionals but by a team of doctors. There were too many loopholes in the network, and it was easy to get into the network, he said. A lot of lessons have come out from the incident from a government point of view, and these will, hopefully be implemented.

Pant added that the framework would address crucial gaps in response mechanisms. There is a need for standard operating procedures to handle such incidents to that steps for mitigation are taken with immediate effect, he said.

Also Read | Ransomware attack: Report flags host of security lapses at AIIMS

Pant also stressed on the need for inter-ministerial cooperation and setting up of a nodal ministry to address cybersecurity threats as the cybersecurity is continuously changing. According to the business allocation rules, no ministry is solely dedicated to addressing such incidents. The concept of peace has changed today, there is no peace in cyber space, he said, adding that the governments cybersecurity strategy was in the advance stages.

The cybersecurity strategy of the government, which has been in the works since 2020, proposes several mitigation measures to combat data breaches. The strategy was drawn up during Pants tenure as cybersecurity coordinator.
The 'double-engine' government, which was being run under the leadership of Prime Minster Narendra Modi, has received a triple-engine government, Maharashtra chief minster Eknath Shinde said after Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) leader Ajit Pawar sworn in as the new deputy chief minister of the state. Maharashtra Governor Ramesh Bais congratulates the newly sworn-in Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, during a ceremony at Raj Bhavan, in Mumbai, Sunday, July 2, 2023. Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde and Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis are also seen.(PTI)

After coming out of Raj Bhavan in Mumbai, following the swearing-in ceremony, the Maharashtra CM said he welcomes Ajit Pawar and his leaders for the development of the state. He also added that the NCP leader's experience will help strengthen the state.

On seat sharing in the Maharashtra cabinet, CM Shinde said there is enough time to decide on that. He further said that the opposition managed to secure four or five seats' in the Lok Sabha from the state, this time they will not manage to get even those number of seats.

In a sudden development about which there was absolute silence in Maharashtra political circle until Sunday morning, Pawar sworn in as dy CM of Maharashtra  third time in the current state assembly  in the middle of Ajit dada, hum tumhare saath hai slogans by his supporters.

Ahead of the swearing-in ceremony, some NCP MLAs said they were upset with party chief Sharad Pawar's unilateral decision to share stage and ally with Congress leader Rahul Gandhi and the Opposition unity meeting in Patna last month, according to news agency ANI.

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As Nationalist Congress Party leader Ajit Pawars rebellion led to a new twist in Maharashtra politics, Congress Jairam Ramesh slammed the BJP for kickstarting its washing machine. Attacking the NCP workers who switched to the Eknath Shinde-Devendra Fadnavis government on Sunday, Ramesh said the corrupt leaders jumped ship to escape the pressure from investigating agencies. He added that Congress will work towards removing BJP from power in Maharashtra. Congress General Secretary in-charge Communications Jairam Ramesh addresses a press conference. (ANI)

The Congress general secretary tweeted, It is clear that BJP's washing machine has resumed its work. Many of the leaders who joined the BJP-led coalition in Maharashtra today faced serious corruption charges. ED, CBI and Income Tax officials were after them. Now all of them have got clean chit. Congress will intensify its efforts to free Maharashtra from the clutches of BJP.

Ajit, who split the NCP and took oath as the deputy chief minister of Maharashtra, said his party decided to become part of the Shinde-led government for the development of the country and praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership. Eight other NCP leaders took oath as ministers.

The Congress is part of the Maha Vikas Aghadi alliance comprising itself, Shiv Sena (Uddhav Thackeray) and the NCP.

Several opposition leaders reacted to the surprise development on Sunday.

Rajya Sabha MP Kapil Sibal on Sunday took a swipe at Modi and said that probably this is "the mother of democracy" that the PM talked about in his address to the US Congress.

Samajwadi Party leader Akhilesh Yadav on Sunday hit out at the BJP and said, BJP does this from time to time, first they did this in Madhya Pradesh, and then in Maharashtra, but people are watching this.

AAP national spokesperson Sanjay Singh also criticised the defection and called PM Modi the biggest patron of corruption in the country.

(With inputs from PTI)

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Ajit Pawar Highlights: Nationalist Congress Party's senior leader Ajit Pawar joined the Maharashtra government as CM Eknath Shinde's deputy on Sunday. After Pawar, senior NCP leaders Dilip Walse Patil, Chhagan Bhujbal were among other eight leaders to take oath as ministers in the Shinde cabinet. Sharad Pawar and Ajit Pawar(HT_PRINT)

The development came as Pawar met some party leaders and MLAs at his official residence in Mumbai earlier. Later, he reached Raj Bhawan, where the swearing ceremony took place in the presence of CM Shinde, deputy CM Devendra Fadnavis and governor Ramesh Bais, as well as supporters of Shinde faction and the BJP.

Earlier, Pawar announced that he wanted to step down as Leader of the Opposition in Maharashtra and would like any party post. I was never interested in working as Leader of Opposition but accepted the role on demand of the party MLAs. Assign me any post in the party organisation and I will do complete justice to whatever responsibility given to me, he had said at a party event on Wednesday.
Some of the MLAs who accompanied Nationalist Congress Party's (NCP) senior leader Ajit Pawar to the Raj Bhavan in Mumbai, ahead of the dramatic swearing-in ceremony on Sunday, said they were upset with the party chief Sharad Pawars unilateral decision to share the stage and ally with Congress Rahul Gandhi at the Opposition unity meeting in Patna last month, news agency ANI reported. NCP president Sharad Pawar in a discussion with party leader Ajit Pawar after announcing being resigned from the party post at YB Chawan Auditorium in Mumbai in May. (ANI Photo)

In a dramatic turn of events, Ajit Pawar, who is also Sharad Pawar's nephew, along with nine MLAs, reached the Raj Bhavan to meet Governor Ramesh Bais and joined the Eknath Shinde-led government in Maharashtra before taking oath as the deputy chief minister of the state.

Chief minister Eknath Shinde and his deputy Devendra Fadnavis were also present on the occasion.

The opposition leaders, including Sharad Pawar, had met at Bihar chief minister Nitish Kumar's residence earlier to prepare an agenda for moving ahead together while working in the respective states to fight the Bharatiya Janata Party in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections.

Nitish Kumar had termed the huddle a "good meeting" and added that the opposition parties had decided to fight the elections together. The huddle was also attended by opposition leaders including West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee, Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal, Congress leaders Mallikarjun Kharge and Rahul Gandhi, PDP chief Mehbooba Mufti, National Conference's Omar Abdullah.

Earlier, Ajit Pawar announced that he wanted to step down as Leader of the Opposition in Maharashtra and would like any party post.

"I was never interested in working as Leader of Opposition but accepted the role on demand of the party MLAs. Assign me any post in the party organisation and I will do complete justice to whatever responsibility given to me," Ajit Pawar had said at a party event in Mumbai.

On Sunday morning, a meeting of NCP leaders was called at the residence of Ajit Pawar and later he along with other party leaders reached the Raj Bhavan.

Meanwhile, Bharatiya Janata Party unit president Chandrashekhar Bawankule claimed that 40 MLAs of the NCP have supported the state government.

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Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) leader Sharad Pawar in a press conference held in Pune on Sunday, confidently responded to a question about the "reliable face" of the party. With a touch of enthusiasm, Pawar raised his hand and declared, "Sharad Pawar." Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) chief Sharad Pawar addresses a press conference on party leader Ajit Pawar joining the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) government and taking oath as Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra, in Mumbai on Sunday. (ANI)

The incident unfolded during a media interaction where journalists sought clarity on the NCP's future leadership and who could be considered as the party's reliable representative. Known for his political acumen and experience, Sharad Pawar's response left no room for doubt as he signaled his own candidacy for the role.

NCP political crisis: Follow LIVE updates

His remark came hours after NCP's Ajit Pawar, along with eight party leaders, joined the Maharashtra government today. Pawar was sworn in as the deputy chief minister of the western state - a position he will share with Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Devendra Fadnavis.

Expressing displeasure over Ajit Pawar's action, the NCP boss stated that the party does not endorse Ajit's actions, as they were his individual decision.

Read | When did it all start? Tracing Ajit Pawar's long history of revolt and rebellion

Sharad Pawar expressed that what happened today might have been surprising for many, but not for him, as he faced a similar challenging situation in 1980 when all the party leaders deserted him. The NCP chief's statement comes shortly after Ajit Pawar's claim that he had the support and blessings of all party members for joining hands with the Shinde-Fadnavis government.

This development has caused significant political upheaval, as Ajit Pawar's actions have seemingly created a division within the party. However, Sharad Pawar reassured party members and supporters that he remains committed to strengthening the NCP and playing a vital role in the united opposition against the ruling government in the upcoming elections.

As the 2024 Lok Sabha elections draw closer, all eyes are on Sharad Pawar and the NCP to see how they navigate through this internal challenge and their positioning within the united opposition front.

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That Ajit Pawar was getting ready to align with the Bharatiya Janata Party in Maharashtra has been known for sometime  yet, when it did happen on Sunday, it still managed to take everyone by surprise. BJP leader Devendra Fadnavis and NCP leader Ajit Pawar at Raj Bhavan in Mumbai on Sunday. (Anshuman Poyrekar/HT Photo)

In a few hours, the Nationalist Congress Party had seemingly changed hands, Maharashtra had one more deputy chief minister, and the Bharatiya Janata Party, one more ally for 2024.

For the grouping-in-the-making of opposition parties that hope to take the fight to the BJP in 2024, Sundays developments were a setback. The events also raise serious questions about the future of the non-Ajit Pawar section of the NCP.

In some ways, though, Sundays events were only to be expected in a state where, since 2019, stunning somersaults have become the leitmotif of local politics. If it started with the Shiv Sena breaking up with its long-term ally after the 2019 state polls, the latest chapter (the book is far from over) saw Ajit Pawar being sworn in along with eight other NCP leaders.

The NCP split comes exactly a year after the cleaving of the Shiv Sena, and it was executed with similar stealth and precision. At least 37 of the NCPs 53 MLAs have gone with Ajit Pawar, and more are likely to follow.

Raj Bhavan staff were alerted only a couple of hours before the swearing in and such was the haste that even families of most ministers who took oath did not have time to reach Raj Bhavan for the ceremony. A senior BJP leader said the decision to induct Ajit Pawar in the state cabinet was taken last week by Union home minister Amit Shah in consultation with Maharashtra deputy chief minister Devendra Fadnavis.

The depletion of both the Shiv Sena and the NCP now raises questions over the effectiveness of the Maha Vikas Aghadi (the Congress is the third wheel in the alliance). While Ajit Pawar has said that the entire party is with him and that the NCP will formally be contesting the 2024 Lok Sabha and Maharashtra Assembly elections in alliance with the BJP, Sharad Pawar declared that unlike Uddhav Thackeray, he will not be seeking legal recourse following the split, but would rather go to the people directly. When asked at a press briefing about who would now be the face of the NCP, Sharad Pawar simply raised his hand. The partys state president and legislative party chief Jayant Patil said late on Sunday night that they have begun exploring legal options against those who have joined the government.

Pawars comments lend credence to a theory doing the rounds that his nephew as well as some senior NCP leaders sworn in on Sunday are unlikely to have done anything without his concurrence and that he may well be hedging his bets for 2024, but the elder statesman did seem sincere about reaching out to people. He will start with a meeting with all NCP office bearers at the YB Chavan Centre on July 5. Sharad Pawar is the tallest leader in the party, but Ajit Pawar does have a strong following in the state, although he doesnt enjoy the national status his uncle does.

Under the anti-defection law, at least two-thirds of the party MLAs need to break away from the original party and merge with another existing party in the Assembly. However, last year, when he split the Shiv Sena, Eknath Shinde upended this by claiming that his faction was the original Shiv Sena. Ajit Pawar similarly indicated on Sunday that it is he who represents the real NCP.

Most of the MLAs and leaders are with us. We, as NCP, decided to join the government to resolve the issues of the people. We will contest all the upcoming elections as NCP on its election symbol  the clock, Ajit Pawar told the media after being sworn in. He argued that if the party could join hands with Uddhav Thackerays Shiv Sena then it could well partner the BJP as both were considered equally communal.

A senior BJP leader disclosed that the BJPs Devendra Fadnavis, the states former CM and current deputy CM had been trying to get Ajit Pawar to cross over since April. This, he added, was part of the BJPs Mission 45 to win 45 seats in the state in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. Maharashtra with 48 MPs is crucial to the partys Lok Sabha campaign.

Opposition parties hit out at the BJP, accusing it of resorting to dirty politics to remain power.

Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge and party leader Rahul Gandhi extended their support to NCP chief Sharad Pawar.

The BJPs dirty tricks department is working on overdrive in Maharashtra. This is not a legitimately elected government, but an ED-facilitated power grab. The Maharashtra government is a product of corruption and sin, Congress general secretary KC Venugopal tweeted.

The BJP has also been worried about Eknath Shindes performance as chief minister, and there have been signs that all is not well between him and deputy chief minister Fadnavis, but with the break up in the NCP, the BJP believes it is in a near-unassailable position ahead of the polls. Western Maharashtra is key to us where the NCP is strong in nine constituencies, said the BJP leader cited above. This includes Baramati, the Pawar family stronghold, from where Ajit Pawar is the sitting MLA.

After the swearing in Ajit Pawar announced that he had the blessings of all party leaders although Sharad Pawars comments contradicted this, if only mildly. The recently-appointed working president of the NCP, Praful Patel, who shared the dais with Ajit Pawar and rebel leader Chhagan Bhujbal, said, We have taken this decision (to join the government) united as a party and we stand with Ajit Pawar. He added that he would always the thankful to Sharad Pawar who gave him positions of responsibility from the time he stepped into politics. Patel is expected to be given a portfolio in the Union cabinet when there is a reshuffle.

Delhi has been abuzz with a possible organisational reshuffle of the BJP and a cabinet reshuffle, in preparation for key state elections later this year and the national elections in 2024, and it is likely the partys central leadership was waiting for the denouement in Maharashtra before announcing those.

Chandarashekhar Bawankule, the state BJP president, said, NCP MLAs have joined the government reposing faith in Prime Minister Modi and their strengthening the government will help Maharashtra take a leap into the future. Were happy that two deputy CMs will now work for Maharashtra.

Political analyst Padmabhushan Deshpande said that on paper the BJP-led coalition looks strong but whether this has worked or not will be seen in the upcoming elections only. The reaction among the people can be gauged only after the three-party government completes the next new months. A lot will depend upon their performance as a coalition government. On the other hand, both Uddhav Thackeray and Sharad Pawar may get sympathy from the people, Deshpande said.

Chief minister Eknath Shinde who kept a low profile for most of the day, told the media that his formerly double-engine government would now run like a bullet train.

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Ajit Pawar on Sunday took oath as the deputy chief minister of Maharashtra in the presence of chief minister Eknath Shinde and existing deputy chief minister Devendra Fadnavis at Raj Bhavan. He will share the post with BJP leader and deputy CM Fadnavis. Ajit Pawar (File Photo)

Senior Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) leader Chhagan Bhujbal also took oath as Maharashtra minister. The other MLAs who are expected to be sworn in include Dilip Walse Patil, Hassan Mushrif, Dharmarao Baba Atram, Aditi Sunil Tatkare, Sanjay Bansode, Anil Patil and Dhananjay Munde.

His swearing-in as the deputy CM with the support of at least 30 MLAs, as he claimed, indicates that he will likely split with the Sharad Pawar-led party.

This comes shortly after Ajit called an urgent meeting of NCP MLAs on Sunday.

Earlier in the day, Ajit met with NCP legislators and is likely to split NCP with at least 30 MLAs and join the Shiv Sena-Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) alliance. The NCP in total has 54 MLAs.

A meeting was held at Ajits official residence Devgiri in Mumbai, where many senior leaders and legislators, including NCP working president Supriya Sule and Praful Patel, were present. Sule left the residence without speaking to the reporters.

NCP president Sharad Pawar, who was in Pune, said he was unaware of the meeting, but added that Ajit, as leader of the opposition in the Assembly, can call a meeting of legislators.

The development comes almost a month after Sharad Pawar named senior party colleague Praful Patel and daughter Supriya Sule the new working presidents of the party after which Ajit had offered to resign from the post of Leader of Opposition, seeking an organisational responsibility.

Ajit was rumoured to be unhappy about being denied the post of partys state unit chief, even as he debunked media reports that he was unhappy after Sule and Patel were made working presidents of the outfit.

On June 21, Ajit expressed his desire to work as Maharashtra president saying, he has no interest left in continuing in the opposition leader position and wants to show the people how to run the party. He made the demand soon after Sule was elevated as the new working president.

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Chennai: The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has chosen to distance itself from the ongoing tussle between Tamil Nadu governor RN Ravi and the states ruling Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK)-led government over the dismissal of minister V Senthil Balaji, party leaders aware of the matter said. Tamil Nadu governor RN Ravi on June 29 ordered dismissal of minister V Senthil Balaji from the Council of ministers. (ANI)

The governors actions and remarks seemingly against the ruling DMK in the state has actually put the BJP on the back foot in Tamil Nadu. In the past one week, Ravi has retracted two of his decisions- 1. refusing to reallocate portfolios of Balaji and 2. putting the ministers dismissal on hold, after being advised by the Union home minister Amit Shah to consult the Attorney General.

While the questions should be against the DMK- why is the chief minister supporting Senthil Balaji? Where is his brother? But the governors actions have turned the focus on whether what he [the governor] is doing is right or wrong, said a BJP leader.

The BJP and its ally All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK) had urged the governor to convince chief minister MK Stalin to remove Balaji, after he was raided by the Income-Tax department in May. The Enforcement Directorate (ED) raided the Tamil Nadu minister, and arrested him on June 14. We, as political parties, have the right to demand his removal but actually removing him is hastily done.

BJP has stayed away from hardcore Hindutva in the state and instead appealed to the sensibilities of language, culture to get a foothold in the southern Dravidian state.

In this scenario, the governors unilateral dismissal of a sitting minister plays into the criticism by DMK and non-BJP leaders that governors such as Ravi serve as agents of the Union government. With such actions, the impression is that Delhi is telling the governor to target the DMK, said retired justice K Chandru.

Though several BJP leaders hailed the governor for dismissing Balaji on June 19, the Constitution states that the governor has no such powers.

The BJP state president K Annamalai, on June 30, announced that the party does not want to get into that the governor has power to remove a minister from the cabinet, in refernce to the dismissal of cash for jobs scam minister Balaji. But called out the chief minister for double speak on the issue.

In 2018, the then-opposition leader Stalin demanded that Balajiwho was then with AIADMK be sacked by the then governor due to allegations of corruption, said Annamalai asking that what has changed now.

ED has arrested Balaji now on charges of money laundering in a case dating back to 2014 when he was transport minister in the AIADMK before he moved to the DMK in 2018.

But, the narrative seems to have changed. The governors actions has drawn the ire of the parties opposed to the BJP in the run up to the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. Besides DMKs ally Congress, the Aam Aadmi Party, Rashtriya Janata Dal have condemned the governors dismissal.

Balaji, who held the two portfolios of electricity and prohibition and excise, was arrested by ED on June 14 under sections of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act(PMLA).

On the day of his arrest, he had dramatically collapsed, undergoing a beating heart coronary artery bypass in Chennais Kauvery hospital and is still recuperating in the hospital.

Citing his health, Stalin reallocated his two portfolios- with Thennarasu additionally handling the electricity department and retained Balaji in the cabinet as a minister without portfolio.

Meanwhile, Annamalai will go on his padyatra on July 28 with a slogan En Mann, En Makkal, which means, My Land, My People, aimed at spreading Prime Minister Narendra Modis achievements over the past 9-years and against the DMK-led government in the state.

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Barmer/Jaipur: With just months to go for the crucial Rajasthan assembly elections, senior Congress leaders have asked former state minister and MLA Harish Choudhary to broker peace between chief minister Ashok Gehlot and his bete noire, Sachin Pilot, both of whom have been locked in a power tussle since 2018, according to senior party functionaries. Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot and Congress leader Sachin Pilot (ANI)

The development comes after Choudhary met senior Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on June 27 during his two-day visit to New Delhi to discuss the party feud, the functionaries said.

Also Read | Reconciliation with Sachin Pilot is permanent, says Rajasthan CM Ashok Gehlot

Ever since the friction in Congresss Rajasthan unit surfaced in 2018, the top leadership appointed three state in-charges  Avinash Pande, Ajay Maken and Sukhjinder Singh Randhawa  to pacify Gehlot and Pilot, but all efforts for a truce failed to yield desired results, the functionaries said.

With the state due to go to the polls later this year, Gandhi has now asked Choudhary to act as a mediator between the two leaders and resolve the factional feud at the earliest, they added.

Choudhary has been asked to find a solution. He has met both Gehlot and Pilot, a senior Rajasthan Congress leader said, seeking anonymity.

Choudhary, an MLA from Baytu, is believed to be a close aide of Gandhi and is also general secretary in-charge of Punjab Congress.

Also Read | CM Gehlot's veiled patience message for Sachin Pilot: You win trust by

Over the last week, the Baytu legislator has held a series of meetings with Gehlot, Pilot, Randhawa and state ministers like Pramod Jain Bhaya, Ram Lal Jat, Parsadi Lal Meena and Lal Chand Kataria in the past five to six days to discuss ways to settle the power tussle.

A second senior party leader said the Congress high command is considering bringing a change in the organisation and government very soon.

Differences between Gehlot, a three-time chief minister, and Pilot spilled out into the open in 2020 when the latter rebelled against the government, plunging the Congress administration into crisis. Then last year, lawmakers close to Gehlot did not attend a Congress Legislative Party (CLP) meeting in Jaipur called to elect a new leader at a time when it seemed almost certain that Gehlot would become the Congress president and Pilot would succeed him as chief minister.

The tussle between Gehlot and Pilot intensified on April 11 after the latter demanded action from the state government against alleged corruption by the previous Vasundhara Raje-led Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) regime, reconstitution of the Rajasthan Public Service Commission (RPSC) and compensation to those affected by the job exam paper leaks. In April, Pilot had observed a day-long fast over his demands, even as Randhawa said the protest was against the interests of the party.
Sonia Gandhi speaks to Sharad Pawar as NCP splits between uncle-nephew In 1999, Sharad Pawar was expelled from the Congress for objecting to Sonia Gandhi's leadership and thus the Nationalist Congress Party was born. On July 2, as the NCP stands split between Sharad Pawar and his nephew Ajit Pawar who joined hands with the BJP to become the deputy chief minister of Maharashtra, Sonia Gandhi extended her support to Sharad Pawar. Read more Congress leader Sonia Gandhi (PTI)

Two village volunteers killed in fresh violence in Manipur

At least three people were killed after a fresh round of violence erupted in strife-torn Manipur, police said on Sunday. The incident took place around 12.05am on Sunday when unknown miscreants attacked village volunteers of Khoijumantabi village situated on the boundary of Churachandpur and Bishnupur districts, police said. Read more

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New Delhi/Imphal: In a fresh violence in ethnic clashes-hit Manipur, at least three people were killed after unidentified miscreants opened fire on village volunteers in Bishnupur district, police said on Sunday. Three people were killed by unidentified miscreants in fresh violence in Bishnupur district of Manipur. (ANI)

The incident took place at Khoijumantabi village, situated on the boundary of Churachandpur and Bishnupur districts, a little past midnight on Sunday, the Manipur Police said in a statement.

Today at about 00.05 hours (12.05am) unknown miscreants coming from adjoining hills fired at the village volunteers stationed at Khoijumantabi Hills, Bishnupur district, the statement read.

Three local village volunteers were killed in the firing, after which an operation was launched by police forcing the armed miscreants to flee, the police said. The village volunteers were in a bunker manning the main route to prevent intrusion of outsiders into the village.

Following the incident, the 12-hour curfew relaxation in Bishnupur was curtained to five hours. Curfew was curtained from 5 am at 10 am, the state government said in a statement.

Manipur chief minister N Biren Singh, along with security personnel, visited the spot and took stock of the situation.

At least 120 people have been killed, over 300 injured and nearly 40,000 displaced in Manipur since May 3, when ethnic violence erupted in the northeastern state between numerically dominant Meitei community  which forms 53% of the state population  and tribal communities, especially Kukis, who live primarily in the hill districts.

Meanwhile, the police said that five civilians, allegedly detained by villagers in Gwaltabi and Urangpat areas under Yaingangpokpi police station a day ago, were rescued by security forces and handed over to the officer-in-charge of Yaingangpokpi on Sunday.

The Indigenous Tribal Leaders Forum (ITLF) condemned the attack on tribal villages, adding that five villagers have been kidnapped. This reprehensible act further highlights the urgent need for immediate action to ensure the safety and security of the tribal communities in Outer Manipur, the top tribal group said in a statement, calling for Presidents rule in the state.

Sundays incident was the second big killing in the week, after two village volunteers were killed in Senjam Chirang, on the boundary of Imphal West and Kangpokpi districts, on Thursday.

Protesting Thursdays incident and taking strong exception to the governments failure to stop violence, women vendors at the iconic Nupi Keithel  hailed as Asias largest women-run market  have announced to shut their business in Imphal for five days and join the peoples movement to restore peace and normalcy. As a result, the Khwairamband Keithel, the main market in Imphal, and other business establishments around it continued to remain closed.

The Manipur Police said that 118 checkpoints have been placed in different districts of the northeastern state, both in the hill and the valley, in which three arms and six bombs were recovered in the last 24 hours.

In another development, the United Peoples Front (UPF) and Kuki National Organisation (KNO)  two umbrella Kuki organisations  have decided to lift the blockade of Kangul (Kangpokpi) on the National Highway-2 with immediate effect to ensure uninterrupted supply of essential commodities.

In a joint statement, UPF spokesperson Aron Kipgen and KNO spokesperson Seilen Haokip said: The decision was taken after a wide-ranging consultation with civil society organisations, village chiefs, youth and women leaders on several occasions.

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July 1, 2023 | 03:25 pm PT

I met Chokchai Koisrichai, CEO of the Talaad Thai wholesale fruit market, at the Thaifex international food and beverage fair in late May.

A man with dark skin wearing shabby clothes, Koisrichai spoke English fluently and conversed with everyone slowly in a soft voice.

When asked about Thai agricultural firms' competitive experience, he said it was important to distinguish between the two types of agricultural products: fresh and processed.

For fresh produce, Thai companies focus on filling seasonality gaps. For instance, Chinese consumers love cabbage: but during the rainy season in China farmers there normally lose cabbage crops and that's when Thailand exports massive amounts of cabbage to China.

Meanwhile, processed food has to have attractive packaging and it is important for customers to learn the stories behind such products.

While I was listening to what he said, I thought about my grandma and the fairy tales she used to tell me when I was a kid.

Koisrichai said that telling customers stories about the products we want them to buy is a must these days. And Thai firms have been telling such stories via QR codes.

New technology has replaced our grandmas completely: Customers only need to scan the QR code and they will know the products whole life cycle, from its basic ingredients through the entire process of creating it. Sometimes the QR codes lead to interesting videos.

During a seminar at Thaifex, Nguyen Thanh Huy, an official from the Vietnam Trade Office in Thailand, explained why many competitive Vietnamese products have yet to find a place on the Thai market. He said it is because they yet to tell attractive stories.

Storytelling is emerging as a new trend in doing business. It has become a core skill in marketing, Huy added. Storytelling means researching and understanding customers, and then, defining which products fit whom, and how to sell them.

He recalled that at first, only big Vietnamese firms attended Thaifex with very large booths and glorious television advertisements. Years later, more and more small and medium-sized enterprises are bringing their creative and unique products to the international fair to expand their market.

This year's fair saw the largest-ever number of Vietnamese enterprises participate, at almost 160. If each of them can tell a great story about their product, each story could be a tool to help make Vietnamese agricultural products become more competitive.

However, storytelling in the Industry 4.0 era should not be as simple as the folk tales told by a grandma. Companies these days must demonstrate their product.

For example, at this years Thaifex, Vietnamese food firm QP Foods displayed processed products that were as eye-catching as fresh ones.

The company invited chefs to cook Vietnamese food at its booth. Talented cooks whipped up fish noodle soup, crab noodle soup and pho from the companys products right then and there in front of the eyes of live potential customers. From what I saw, I can say that businesspeople from Europe and the U.S. enjoyed those hot flavorful dishes very much.

Customers pick fruits at a supermarket in HCMC, June 18, 2023. Photo by VnExpress/Tung Dinh

At a seminar on green economics and sustainable products in Thailand, I said we could use our Thai cousins experiences to help build up the competitive advantage of Vietnamese products. I said joining Thaifex to display products and find new markets was just half of the workload.

The remaining work includes learning from Thai companies participating in the event, collecting information, attending seminars and meeting partner companies and distributors.

Sharing the same opinion, Jariya Chirathivat, a representative of Central Group in Vietnam, said Vietnams agricultural products must have QR codes that tell their stories to customers in their export markets.

Enterprises should also pay attention to marketing activities to further expand to new markets. If they fail to entice customers to try their product, they will fail no matter how good their product is.

Creating a "grandma QR code" to boost sales in Thailand or in other markets is a matter that should not be underestimated.

It is indeed a weapon Vietnamese products could use to become more competitive.

*Vu Kim Hanh is Chairwoman of the Business Association of High-Quality Vietnamese Products.
Dehradun: A 6-ft deep hole has appeared in a field in Joshimath in Uttarakhands Chamoli district, according to an eyewitness, sparking fresh fears of geological instability due to the monsoon rains in the pilgrim gateway town where hundreds of families had to be evacuated to safer locations in January after several houses developed dangerous cracks. Several houses in Uttarakhands Joshimath had developed dangerous cracks in January. Several hundreds of peole were evacuated earlier this year and most of them are still living in relief camps. (AP)

I discovered a hole at least 6ft deep in a small field near my house. It appears to have been developed due to monsoon rains, said Vinod Saklani, a resident of Sunil ward in Joshimath town. We fear more damage to structures in our town due to the rains. I have filled the hole with stone and soil. Even the cracks in damaged houses are expanding slowly but gradually.

Also Read: Construction of bypass road reignites protest in Joshimath

The Saklani family was among the first in the town to see cracks develop in their house two years ago. The situation aggravated in early January this year. I have been living in a hotel (in a safer location) since January 6 and visit my house every day during the day to take care of the cattle tied in the field near the house, Saklani said.

Local authorities visited to location on Sunday. They have said that a technical team would visit to inspect the hole thoroughly on Monday, Saklani said.

As many as 868 structures have developed cracks in Joshimath, the gateway town to the Hindu shrine of Bradrinath, and 181 have been declared unsafe so far. Several hundreds of peole were evacuated earlier this year and most of them are still living in relief camps.

Also Read: Monsoon sparks apprehensions of further geological instability in Joshimath

A group of residents under the banner of Joshimath Bachao Sangharsh Samiti recently met Chamoli district magistrate Himanshu Khurana at district headquarters Gopeshwar over possible threats to the town during the monsoon and presented 11-point unfulfilled demands.

The civil society group will stage a sit-in on Monday to draw the attention of the government on questions around the stability of Joshimath, according to convener Atul Sati.

On rainy days, the disaster-affected people are spending their days and nights in fear. However, there has been a lack of interest by the government towards Joshimth in the past two months despite the chief ministers assurance. Leave alone fulfilling the 11-point demands, our proposals for dialogue have been ignored, Sati said.

Also Read: Residents flag fresh cracks in Joshimath

The fact-finding report of scientists is yet to be made public, he added. Without this, the authorities restarted construction work of the Helang Marwari bypass, which is deadly for the towns future.

Subdivisional magistrate Kumkum Joshi didnt respond to calls despite repeated attempts.

Chamoli receives 1,230.8 mm of rainfall every year, according to India Meteorological Department, which is higher than the state average of 1,162.7 mm. In 2022, Chamoli received 1196.4 mm of rainfall between June and September, whereas Uttarakhand received 1,128.0 mm rainfall during the south-west monsoon.

Also Read: 3 months on, Joshimath families await permanent resettlement

As the larger part of Chamoli district is situated on the southern slopes of the outer Himalayas, monsoon currents penetrate through trenched valleys, with rainfall reaching its maximum during the monsoon season.

Chamoli district, where Joshimath is located, has a history of extreme rainfall events. It received 537.9 mm of rainfall in July 2013, which was the second highest recorded rainfall in the district since records began in 1901. The maximum rainfall of 860.7 mm was reported in September 1924.

The February 2021 Chamoli tragedy near Raini village, just 20km from Joshimath, showed how vulnerable the area was to natural disasters. The flash floods killed 204 people, but only 92 bodies were recovered. These flash floods in the Alaknanda River, flowing at the base of the Joshimath town, had eroded the toe at the base of the town, with local residents claiming it could be one of the causes of instability of Joshimaths landmass.

The water moving underground erodes fine material (loose soft rocks) under the surface and creates a depression in the form of a hole. A lot depends on monsoon rains. In event of excessive rainfall, it would aggravate the problem there, Professor YP Sundriyal, head of department, Geology, Hemvati Nandan Bahuguna Garhwal University, said.
Heavy rain has triggered flash floods and landslides in Uttarakhand and Gujarat along with other parts of northern India. The India Meteorological Department has issued an orange alert in certain parts of Uttarakhand till July 5. Landslides in the Chamoli district of the state blocked the Badrinath National Highway for the second time on Saturday. Landslides triggered by flash floods wreaked havoc in Uttarakhand.(AP File)

Speaking about the rapid advancement of the monsoon in the country, IMD scientist Soma Sen told ANI earlier, The monsoon is active currently with its rapid advancement in the last 4-5 days. Leaving some parts of northwest India, the monsoon has impacted almost the entire country. Entire Gujarat and south-east Rajasthan have been covered by the monsoon."

Nine people have lost their lives due to rain-related incidents in Gujarat in the past two days. Visuals posted by news agency ANI also showed river water entering the low-lying residential areas in the state.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Sunday spoke to Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel about the prevailing situation in the state. He said that the NDRF and SDRF teams are working hand-in-hand with the local administration to help the people. Shah tweeted in Hindi, I talked to the Chief Minister Shri @Bhupendrapbjp ji and inquired about the situation. NDRF and SDRF teams and local administration are engaged in helping people in these areas. The Central Government and the State Government are standing with the people in this difficult time.

Meanwhile, visuals of monsoon havoc also surfaced from other parts of the country. In a video posted by PTI, several cars and bikes were seen damaged as over 50 trees fell amid heavy rainfall in Puducherry on Sunday.

(With agencies' inputs)

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Senior Congress leader P Chidambaram on Sunday hit out at Assam chief minister Himanta Biswa Sarma over his remarks on the Manipur conflict, saying that it would be helpful if the BJP leader did not poke his nose in the situation. The Congress leader also called for Manipur chief minister N Biren Singh's resignation and demanded a President's Rule in the northeastern state. Congress leader P Chidambaram.(ANI)

On Saturday, Sarma had said that the situation in neighbouring Manipur will improve within 7-10 days. The situation in Manipur is improving day by day. I am of the view that in the next one week to 10 days, there will be more improvement, he had said.

CM, Assam has promised that peace will return to Manipur in a week. It will help if CM, Assam did not poke his nose into Manipur's conflict and stayed away. It will also help if Mr Biren Singh resigned as CM and President's Rule was imposed for a few months, Chidambaram wrote on Twitter.

Manipur CM's resignation

High drama unfolded outside CM Singh's residence and Raj Bhavan on Friday after he tendered his resignation. He was even all set to meet state governor and resign from his post when he was stopped by his supporters from going to Raj Bhavan. Hours later, the CM took back his resignation letter.

Speaking about his resignation, Singh on Saturday told ANI, I saw effigies of PM Modi and HM Amit Shah being burnt at a few places in the state, saw attempts of attack on BJP office. What the Centre did for Maipur and we did for Manipur in 5-6 years, I doubted if we have lost the trust of people. Thinking about this made me feel bad...Abusive language was used by a small group against me a few days back at a market. It didn't feel good...So, I decided this.

My supporters cried and showed me their trust in me. This proved my thoughts (of doubts) wrong) because the people still stood in my support. They told me not to resign. If they tell me to resign, I will; if they tell me not to, I won't, he added.

Manipur violence

Violence in Manipur first broke out on May 3 after a 'Tribal Solidarity March' was organised in the hill districts to protest against the Meitei community's demand for Scheduled Tribe (ST) status. More than 100 people have lost their lives in the violence, while thousands fled their homes.
Ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modis two-day visit to Paris, one of Indias closest allies France made an offer many steps ahead of the path-breaking GE-414 engine deal with the US, people familiar with the matter said on Saturday. French President Emmanuel Macron welcomes Prime Minister Narendra Modi before a meeting at the Chateau of Chantilly, near Paris, France in August 2019(REUTERS)

The Emmanuel Macron government has given the green signal to defence major Safran to jointly design, develop, test, manufacture and finally certify an engine that will power Indias twin engine advanced multi-role combat aircraft (AMCA) and the twin engine deck-based fighter for Indian aircraft carriers.

While the government is tight-lipped about the deal, authoritative sources have confirmed that the 100% transfer of technology offered by the French Safran is free from US International Trade in Arms Regulation (ITAR) and the proposed 110 kilo newton engine will be fully Made in India.

DRDO chief Dr Samir V Kamat paid a special visit to the Safran engine factory and the R&D centre near Paris on the sidelines of the recently concluded 2023 Paris Air Show. The engine proposal has been under discussion under the defence minister and NSA-led strategic dialogue with France.

PM Narendra Modi will arrive in Paris on July 13 afternoon to attend the Bastille Day celebrations the next day. He is expected to hold bilateral talks with President Macron on July 13. The Indian Air forces Rafale fighter will be participating in the Bastille Day fly-past on July 14.

The French offer includes a completely new engine, new materials, new architecture, stealth compliance with full supply chains and ancillary manufacturing based in India. While the price of the jet engine deal will be extremely competitive per engine in US dollar terms, the total process from designing to certification of the manufactured engine will take 10 years from the date of signing. The offer also includes Safran setting up a centre of excellence in gas turbine technology in India with full design and metallurgical precision software tools.

Despite the DRDO's best efforts since 1996, it could not deliver on the Kaveri jet engine due to issues with metallurgical tools, rotating parts, single crystal blade technology and high-pressure engine core. The French offer is synchronised with Safrans facility coming up in Hyderabad to maintain repair and overhaul (MRO) LEAP engines for the A320 and Boeing 737 aircraft and will also be developed as MRO for the M-88 engine, which powers the Rafale fighter.

Air India alone requires some 800 LEAP engines for its massive aircraft purchase from Airbus and Boeing. It is understood that the Safran offer covers the full hot section of the engine including the rotating parts, most crucial single crystal blade technology and high-pressure compressor.

While the M-88 engine of the existing Rafale fighter with IAF has a thrust of 75-80 kilo newton, the French offer, which includes tying up with Indian defence PSUs and local private players, will produce higher thrust engine as required by the AMCA or TEDBF being developed by the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) under the DRDO. Safran is already working on a 125 KN engine for the French next generation fighter. Safran engines power the helicopters made by HAL and the two companies are reported to have agreed to jointly develop the engine for Indian multi-role helicopters.

Safran has also developed sourcing in India for engine parts for LEAP and M-88 at its own facilities in India and ancillary units, such as a Lucknow-based company that is making titanium alloy parts for the LEAP and Rafale engines.

While the investment in the entire process from design to flight involves several billion euros, the French claim that the offer is most competitive by international standards and the advantage is that it will create a 360-degree capability and ownership of full engine technology by India.

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Principal opposition in Karnataka Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has decided to stage a protest both inside and outside the legislative assembly on July 4, demanding the effective implementation of the Congresss pre-poll guarantees without conditions, former minister deputy chief minister Dr CN Ashwath Narayan said on Sunday. Karnataka Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has decided to stage a protest both inside and outside the legislative assembly on July 4 (PTI)

Speaking to the media at the BJP office in Bengaluru on Sunday, Narayan asserted that the Congress, which came to power by assuring guarantees in May, has failed to fulfil its promises.

The former minister said that the BJP to ready to fight against this and will launch a stop cheating, implement guarantees protest on July 4.

In the run-up to the elections, the Congress had promised 200 units of free power to all households under the Gruha Jyothi scheme, 2,000 a month to each woman head of the family under the Gruha Lakshmi scheme, free travel for women in government-run buses under the Gruha Shakti scheme, 3,000 a month to unemployed graduates and 1,500 a month to unemployed diploma graduates for two years under the Yuva Nidhi scheme and 10kg food grains to each member of a below poverty line (BPL) family under the Anna Bhagya scheme.

The Congress government has already launched the Gruha Shakti scheme, which will provide free travel for women in public transport buses. Two more guarantees - cash for beneficiaries in place of the additional 5 kg of rice under the Anna Bhagya scheme, and 200 units of free electricity to households under the Gruha Jyothi scheme  came into effect on Saturday. The application process for the Gruha Lakshmi scheme is likely to start on July 14 and it is scheduled to be launched on August 15.

The Karnataka assembly session is scheduled from July 3 to 14, which will also see the new government tabling a fresh budget. The Congress government is facing hiccups in the implementation of multiple schemes that were a part of their election manifesto in the southern state.

After the Congress party came to power, there has been a lack of confidence in the implementation of the guarantees. We will fight inside and outside the House, demanding the implementation of the guarantees without conditions. They have increased electricity rates by more than 50%, Narayan said, adding that under the Congress government, the state is witnessing price rise and corruption.

Narayan further criticised the Congress government for struggling to give 10 kg of rice as promised.

The former minister also slammed the Shakti scheme alleging that it has resulted in a shortage of buses across the state. There are not enough buses for the Shakti scheme. Students and commuters have been inconvenienced.

Last week, former chief minister B S Yediyurappa said that the Congress government must implement all its five guarantees in its full scope or relinquish power. While attributing BJPs poll debacle to the Congress guarantees, Yediyurappa said the saffron party will not take these promises lightly as people are waiting for them to be implemented.

Reacting to the protests, chief minister Siddaramaiah on Sunday said that the government would implement the five guarantees without fail. We will implement the five guarantees announced during the election no matter how difficult it may be. No matter who tries to play games, we will pay for all five schemes in this years budget. Our five guarantees transcend caste and religion.

As long as I am in power, I will strive for the prosperity of the oppressed class, Dalits, minorities and poor people of all castes, Siddaramaiah added.

On Sunday, women and child development minister Laxmi Hebbalkar clarified that the Gruha Lakshmi scheme would be launched soon and an announcement in the regard would be made by July 4.

Gruha Lakshmi will be implemented from August. We are keeping our word. We will work as per the expectations of the people of the state in the coming days, Hebbalkar added.
The Karnataka Text Books Society (KTBS) has published 140 pages of revised school textbooks corrigendum of the Social Science and Kannada textbooks for classes 6 to 10 in state schools. (Representative Photo)

According to the corrigendum, the revisions were made to Kannada first and second language for classes 6 to 10 and Social Science textbooks for classes 6, 7 and 10 in Kannada and English language.

The corrections suggested by the subject experts were consolidated subject-wise in Kannada and English, printed in corrigendum form and supplied one to each school. These changes are available on the departmental website (www.ktbs.kar.nic.in), KTBS said in a statement.

Teachers have been instructed to ensure that students of all mediums make changes in the textbooks supplied in the year 2023-24 as per this circular. Accordingly, teachers of all mediums have been asked to adopt and follow the suggested changes in teaching, learning and evaluation, it added.

The Congress, in its poll manifesto ahead of this years assembly elections, promised to reverse such changes made to textbooks during the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) regime. The Congress government had appointed a School Textbooks Review Committee headed by Baraguru Ramachandrappa to look into the changes made in textbooks during the previous BJP regime.

Last month, the Karnataka cabinet approved the revision of Social Science and Kannada textbooks for classes 6 to 10 in state schools. Some of the key omissions include chapters on Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) founder KB Hedgewar, Hindutva ideologue VD Savarkar, right-wing ideologue Chakravarthy Sulibele, Sanskrit and Kannada scholar Bannanje Govindacharya.

Meanwhile, chapters on educationist Savitribai Phule, Indias first prime minister Jawaharlal Nehrus letter to his daughter Indira Gandhi, and a poem on BR Ambedkar, which were removed last year, were restored. The government will also make it mandatory for all schools to hold a reading of the Preamble to the Constitution.

Last year, the Textbook Revision Committee, headed by Rohith Chakrathirtha, drew flak from writers, academics, religious leaders and Opposition parties, who accused the government-appointed panel of attempting to saffronise the curriculum by dropping works of social reformers and progressive thinkers.

Among the objections raised included the omission of chapters on social reformer Narayana Guru, freedom fighter Bhagat Singh, and works of progressive writers such as Sara Aboobacker and P Lankesh. Meanwhile, chapters on Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) founder KB Hedgewar, and works of right-wing ideologues such as Chakravarti Sulibele, Govinda Pai and Bannanje Govindacharya, among others, were included.

Objections were also raised over omissions and commissions in chapters relating to religious icons such as 12th-century social reformer Basavanna, and personalities such as Ambedkar. Some noted writers, including Devanur Mahadev, G Ramakrishna and SG Siddaramaiah, had withdrawn permission for the use of their works in the textbooks in protest.

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In a surprising political development, Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) leader Ajit Pawar, along with 9 other party leaders, has joined the Maharashtra government. Pawar was sworn in as the deputy chief minister of the western state - a position he will share with Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Devendra Fadnavis. Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) leader Ajit Pawar signs documents after taking oath as Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister, at Raj Bhavan, in Mumbai.(PTI)

Earlier today, a significant gathering of NCP legislators took place at Ajit Pawar's Mumbai residence. The meeting was attended by the party's working president Supriya Sule and senior leader Chhagan Bhujbal. However, state party president Jayant Patil was notably absent from the gathering.

Catch all the live updates here: Ajit Pawar, 8 other MLAs inducted into Eknath cabinet

The alliance between the NCP and the BJP has caught many by surprise, as the two parties have had contrasting ideologies in the past. The move is expected to bring about a reshuffle in the power dynamics within the Maharashtra government.

Here are 5 points on on Ajit Pawar's switch:

1 Out of the total 53 NCP MLAs in the state, 40 are apparently with Ajit Pawar, who is the leader of opposition in the state Assembly.

2. Ajit Pawar met some party leaders and MLAs at his official residence 'Devgiri' in Mumbai earlier in the day.

3. Senior NCP leader Chhagan Bhujbal and party's working president Supriya Sule were among the leaders present at the meeting. However, NCP president Sharad Pawar, who was in Pune, said he was unaware of the meet.

NCP splits: List of MLAs took oath as ministers with Ajit Pawar in Maharashtra

4. Ajit Pawar took the oath as the deputy chief minister of Maharashtra for the third time since 2019.

5. Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut expressed his concern over the political developments, referring to the government formation through vertical splits within political parties as a "circus." He warned that the people of Maharashtra would not tolerate such maneuvers for an extended period.

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR Kanishka Singharia Kanishka is a journalist at Hindustan Times news desk. When not in newsroom, you will find her on streets of Delhi exploring food cafes or capturing world through her lens. ...view detail
With favourable conditions for the rapid advancement of southwest monsoon, the India meteorological Department (IMD) said Sunday it is expected to cover the remaining parts of India, including those in Rajasthan, Haryana and Punjab during the next two days. For the rest of the country, the weather body issued a significant warning during the next five days, as the active monsoon season is expected to bring heavy to very heavy rainfall at many places. Vehicles crossing during monsoon rain falling in Patna , Bihar on Saturday. (Photo by Santosh Kumar / Hindustan Times)

For Delhi and its adjoining regions, the IMD said light rain is expected to continue till July 6. A yellow alert is in place for moderate rainfall on July 5 and 6. Before that, most places will receive drizzle to light rain, an official said. Meanwhile, Gujarat is anticipated to experience light to moderate rainfall over the next 24 hours. The state has encountered heavy rainfall in several districts, resulting in the flooding of low-lying areas and disrupting normal life in some places.

IMDs monsoon prediction for rest of India:

Uttarakhand and Uttar Pradesh and rest of northwest India: IMD said there is a high likelihood of light to moderate scattered to fairly widespread rainfall persisting in northwest India over the next 24 hours. Additionally, Uttarakhand is expected to experience isolated heavy to very heavy rainfall till July 6; In Uttar Pradesh, while the eastern region will experience heavy rainfall from July 4-6; the IMD said western UP is likely to witness isolated heavy rainfall on July 5 and 6.

Chhattisgarh, MP and central India: The IMD said light to moderate fairly widespread to widespread rainfall would occur across central India for the next five days. Additionally, chances of isolated heavy rainfall are high in Chhattisgarh till July 6. East Madhya Pradesh and Vidarbha are likely to encounter isolated heavy rainfall on July 5 and 6, the IMD added.

Goa, Maharashtra and west India: Over the next five days, there is a high probability of light to moderate fairly widespread to widespread rainfall across west India.The IMD said that during this period, Konkan and Goa and the Ghat areas of Madhya Maharashtra. Gujarat is likely to receive rainfall during the next 24 hours.

Bihar, Jharkhand, and rest of east and north-east India: The weather body predicted fairly widespread to widespread light to moderate rainfall across east and north-east India for the next five days. During this period, sub-Himalayan West Bengal and Sikkim, Assam & Meghalaya, and Arunachal Pradesh are likely to experience isolated heavy to very heavy rainfall. The same weather conditions will persist for Bihar till July 3, while Jharkhand is expected to receive isolated heavy rainfall on Tuesday. In Odisha, isolated heavy rainfall is likely from July 3-6.

Kerala, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu and remaining South India: Light to moderate scattered to widespread rainfall in the next five days over Kerala and Mahe, as well as Coastal Karnataka. Andhra Pradesh and south interior Karnataka are likely to receive isolated heavy rainfall from July 3-6. Additionally, isolated heavy rainfall is likely in coastal Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Kerala over the next five days and isolated very heavy rainfall from July 3-6. Isolated heavy rainfall will be seen in south interior Karnataka, coastal Andhra Pradesh, and Rayalaseema from July 3-5. Telangana may experience the same on July 4 and 5.

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Mysuru city police commissioner B Ramesh Bhanot on Saturday suspended a head constable for allegedly making derogatory remarks against Mysuru-Kodagu MP and senior Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Pratap Simha on social media, officials said on Sunday. Mysuru commissioner B Ramesh Bhanot suspended a head constable for making derogatory remarks against MP Pratap Simha

According to officials, the suspended head constable, B Prakash, attached to VV Puram police station in the city, made derogatory remarks against Simha in a Facebook comment on June 24. Commenting on a video clip of Chikkaballapura Congress MLA Pradeep Eshwar criticising Simha shared on Facebook, the constable said derogatory words against Simha.

The head constable, in his comment on the post, said that Simha had availed BDA house site by showing his wife as a sister.

The comment came to the notice of MPs staff, after which Simha filed a complaint with the commissioner of police. The complaint stated that a few people indulged in fake propaganda against him and his family, officials said.

The commissioner suspended the head constable for violating Karnataka civil service rules (KCSR) and ordered a departmental enquiry, VV Puram traffic police inspector Prasanna Kumar told HT. He said Karnataka State Police (Disciplinary Proceedings) Rules-1965, Rule-5 of 1989, Prakash B has been suspended pending departmental inquiry with immediate effect.

Subsistence allowance will be paid during the period of suspension as per rules, and no private profession or business transactions shall be carried during the period of suspension. If found to be involved in any such work, it will be treated as illegal, and appropriate disciplinary action will be taken separately, and the subsistence allowance will be withheld, Kumar said.

The inspector further said that during the suspension period, the central post should not be left without prior permission and cant get leave facilities.

Also, it is mentioned in the suspension order that an affidavit of non-engagement in any private profession etc. shall be produced before receiving subsistence allowance every month, he added.
Moments after taking oath as the deputy chief minister of Maharashtra on Sunday, National Congress Party (NCP) leader Ajit Pawar made a change to his Twitter bio. It now reads, Deputy Chief Minister Maharashtra, along with other tags such as Member of Legislative Assembly, Baramati, Former LoP (Leader of Opposition), and NCP leader. Follow LIVE updates on NCP crisis here NCP leader Ajit Pawar's Twitter bio changed to "Deputy Chief Minister, Maharashtra"(Twitter/@AjitPawarSpeaks)

In a surprising move, the Ajit Pawar faction of the NCP has decided to join the Shinde-Fadnavis led government. Along with Ajit Pawar, a total of nine MLAs have been sworn in as ministers and inducted into the cabinet.

After the oath-taking ceremony

During a press conference immediately after the swearing-in ceremony in Mumbai, Ajit Pawar on Sunday said, "We joined for the purpose of development. Modi is leading the country and working towards its progress. We felt the need to support him. The opposition is attempting to unite and hold meetings, but each state has its own unique circumstances, and these meetings have not yielded any results."

Following NCP leader Ajit Pawar's oath-taking as the deputy chief minister, CM Eknath Shinde said, Maharashtra will now move forward swiftly with one chief minister and two deputy chief ministers. We support a politics focused on development, which is led by a leader committed to progress. Sometimes, when a deserving party worker is given a secondary role, such situations arise.

Criticism after Ajit Pawar's move

Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut said on Sunday that Sharad Pawar, the supremo of NCP, remains undeterredby the party split and is ready for a fresh start. Raut tweeted, I just spoke with Sharad Pawar of the NCP. He assured me of his strong determination and the unwavering support of the people. We can begin anew with Uddhav Thackeray.

Priyanka Chaturvedi, another Shiv Sena (UBT) leader, criticised the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) amid the swearing-in ceremony of Ajit Pawar as the deputy chief minister, along with other MLAs taking on ministerial roles in the Maharashtra government led by Eknath Shinde.

Referring to the BJP as a political opportunist, Chaturvedi said that they should be the last party to talk about ideological alliances. She said in a tweet, They (BJP) are only political opportunists who desire power at any cost. With the recent developments in Maharashtra, those MLAs who were involved in corruption and imprisoned are now being sworn in as ministers!

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Rena Murshud

Azerbaijan police is celebrating the 105th anniversary of its honorable activity. According to the decree signed by national leader Heydar Aliyev in 1998, July 2 every year is marked a professional holiday of law enforcement officers performing police duties. The work of the police in the protection of security in Azerbaijan is irreplaceable. However, regarding this, we also wanted to learn the views of experts.

Political analyst Tural Aliyev, who commented on the issue for Azernews, noted that the quality of police services in Azerbaijan is developing rapidly.

"In general, in every country, law enforcement agencies play a major role in protecting the society, the state, general security and public order. Currently, the function of the police and law enforcement agencies in Azerbaijan consists of this. It's hard to say, because the police reforms currently underway in the system are constantly being renewed and further developed."

The expert spoke about the dedication of the police during important events in Azerbaijan.

"There are special and important events in every country. For example, if we look at the period of the pandemic or the Patriotic War in Azerbaijan, we can say that at those times, law enforcement officers and representatives of other power structures of the state were more prominent. There were sufficient number of police officers among those who lost their lives during the period of either Pandemic or the Second Karabak War," he said.

Tural Aliyev also emphasized the special professionalism shown by the Azerbaijani police in regulating mutual relations with citizens at a time when martial law was declared in the country during the Patriotic War.

"While every citizen has a responsibility to the state, law enforcement agencies also have a number of mutual obligations to the citizen. Each obligation is regulated by laws. If there is a violation of the law from any side, it is prevented within the system and legally assessed. Finally, mutual relations is regulated. In this regard, our policemen made a great effort to follow the rules and regulations applied during the Patriotic War in Baku and other districts," the expert stressed.

The political analyst also said that visitors to Azerbaijan have very high impressions of the police. He noted that this is not just a word, but also an opinion based on statistical data.

"Today, guests or tourists coming to Azerbaijan from abroad pay special attention to the stability in the country. Because the opinion from outside is also important to evaluate the work of special security agencies. In other developed countries, it is very dangerous to walk in the city at different times of the day, mainly at midnight. It is not just a word, it is possible to see if we look at the world statistics. However, since law and order is maintained at a high level in Azerbaijan, it is possible to go for a walk very comfortably from night to morning, even in a densely crowded areas of our country," the expert noted.

He also added that there is great progress in the training of police personnel in Azerbaijan. A patient, discreet and extremely polite police officer today attracts attention with his exemplary behavior in resolving any dispute. This creates an incentive for the positive development of relations between ordinary citizens and the police.

"If there is any tension between the police and citizens, it is not correct to blame it on the system in general. If 20 years ago there was a tangible problem, now such cases are no longer visible. Even the incidents that occur are eliminated very calmly and systematically, and most importantly it is solved administratively and legally. Because what is important for Azerbaijan is the health and safety of its citizens," the expert concluded.
The results of a review for relaxing Malaysias 10-year visa program will be known within two months, said Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing.

It may take up to eight weeks to obtain approval from the government before the latest conditions on the Malaysia My Second Home program could be finalized, the minister said, as cited by The Star newspaper.

The visa program, which was launched in 2002, allows foreigners to stay in Malaysia for up to 10 years.

In August 2021, the government imposed stricter conditions, requiring applicants to provide proof of RM1.5 million (US$338,000) in liquid assets and a minimum of RM40,000 in monthly income.

Previously, applicants only needed savings of between RM300,000 and RM500,000.

Earlier, many associations and experts called on the Malaysian government to quickly resolve issues in its 10-year visa program to help raise government revenue and stir up the stagnant housing market.
In the wake of nine NCP leaders, including Ajit Pawar, joining the Eknath Shinde government, party chief Sharad Pawar has convened a meeting on July 5 in Mumbai to discuss the developments and the future course of action, its state unit chief Jayant Patil said on Sunday. New Delhi: Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) President Sharad Pawar with senior leader Praful Patel during party office bearers' meet, in New Delhi, Wednesday, June 28, 2023. (PTI Photo/Ravi Choudhary) (PTI06_28_2023_000094A)(PTI)

Earlier in the day, Ajit Pawar led a vertical split in the party to become the deputy chief minister, while eight other NCP leaders were sworn in as ministers in the Shiv Sena-Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government. Talking to reporters, Patil said the meeting will be held at 1 pm on Wednesday at the Y B Chavan Centre in south Mumbai.

"NCP as a party doesn't support the Eknath Shinde-BJP government. Many of the MLAs who have signed the letter of support to the government, called me saying that they were confused and will always back Sharad Pawar," he said.

He said some leaders in the party would often demand that the party go with the BJP, but the party's top leadership never approved of it, he said. He said the nine NCP leaders have taken oath as ministers going against the party's ideals.

"As of now, nine of our party MLAs have become ministers . Others had gone to witness the swearing-in," Patil said.

Ajit Pawar has the support of more than 40 MLAs and over six MLCs of his party, sources claimed citing a letter submitted to the Raj Bhavan. The party has 53 MLAs and nine MLCs.
Nationalist Congress Party's senior leader Ajit Pawar on Sunday met some party leaders and MLAs at his official residence in Mumbai and later reached the Raj Bhavan along with other party leaders. The meeting assumes significance in the wake of Ajit Pawar recently saying he was not keen on continuing as the Leader of Opposition and wanted to work in the party organisation. NCP leader Ajit Pawar

Sources said the NCP is on the verge of a split as Ajit Pawar is likely to join the Shiv Sena-led Eknath Shinde and Bharatiya Janata Party government and take oath as deputy chief minister of Maharashtra.

Pawar is likely to split the NCP with at least 30 MLAs and join the Shiv Sena-BJP alliance.

Visuals shared by news agency ANI showed NCP leader Chhagan Bhujbal and other party leaders, including Ajit Pawar, are present at the Maharashtra Raj Bhavan.

Earlier, ANI reported that NCP working president Supriya Sule, party leader Praful Patel and others had reached Ajit Pawar's residence for the meeting.

However, NCP president Sharad Pawar, who was in Pune, said he was unaware of the meeting, but added that Ajit Pawar, as leader of opposition (LoP) in the Maharashtra assembly, can call a meeting of legislators, news agency PTI reported.

Bhujbal was among the leaders present at the meeting held at Ajit Pawar's official residence 'Devgiri', while state party president Jayant Patil was not present.

The agenda of the meeting was not known. Meanwhile, Sharad Pawar told reporters in Pune that he was unaware of the meeting in Mumbai.

'On July 6, I have called a meeting of senior leaders and decisions related to the party will be discussed,'' he said. The NCP chief also said that as the LoP, Ajit Pawar can call a meeting of legislators.

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The new data protection law, likely to be introduced for discussion during the monsoon session of parliament that begins from July 20, will add penal provisions for entities that flout voluntary undertaking commitments, officials aware of the matter have said. HT Image

The punishments are meant to give teeth to a provision in the law that will potentially allow companies to proactively inform the future data protection board about privacy breaches and undertake remedial measures, which could otherwise help them avoid hefty fines.

The voluntary undertaking may include an undertaking to take specified action (such as reporting a data breach) within a specified time, an undertaking to refrain from taking specified action, and an undertaking to publicizing the voluntary undertaking, the new draft states, one of these persons said.

Fines under the data protection law, if a company is found to have violated its provisions, can otherwise extend up to 500 crore, according to the draft.

The law, as per a draft in the public domain, will set up a Data Protection Board that will become the de-facto regulator, with the power to monitor incidents and lay down penalties. The acceptance of the voluntary undertaking by the Board shall constitute a bar on proceedings under the provisions of this act as regards to the contents of the voluntary undertaking, this person said, implying that once a voluntary undertaking is accepted, other proceedings may not be initiated.

But breaching these commitments itself may lead to a fine, this person said, adding that this is a new provision being baked into the draft law.

The previous version of the Act also underlined the need for voluntary undertakings but did not specify a specific fine for the same or what would happen if these were violated.

The data protection law has been long overdue and the government has had to go back to the drawing board more than once after previous attempts were seen to have failed to strike a balance between privacy and ease of compliance. The latest draft too has been criticised for several lapses. But focussing on voluntary undertaking avenues, and making them enforceable, is a welcome step since cybersecurity experts have warned that privacy laws must not become too cumbersome to dissuade companies from coming clean  the sooner a breach is mitigated, the better the outcomes are.

The proposed law has been criticised for giving the government excessive leeway in framing rules and protocols outside of the parent legislation. The independence of the regulator too has been of some debate.

The voluntary undertaking mechanism has precedence in other data privacy laws. Singapore in 2020 amended its data protection laws to create similar avenues, and such steps have been considered by the UK.
If there is one piece of commentary that dominated foreign policy discourse heading into the recently concluded summit between Narendra Modi and Joe Biden in Washington, DC, it was a Foreign Affairs essay titled, Americas Bad Bet on India, authored by the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace scholar Ashley J Tellis. Tarapore, a research scholar at the Walter H Shorenstein Asia-Pacific Research Center at Stanford University, told Vaishnav that the expectation that India would or should join the United States in a future military response to a Chinese takeover of Taiwan is the wrong benchmark with which to assess US-India security cooperation (HT Photo)

Last week on the Grand Tamasha podcasta co-production of Carnegie and HThost Milan Vaishnav sat down with security expert Arzan Tarapore, who published a high-profile response to Tellis, titled Americas Best Bet in the Indo-Pacific.

Tarapore, a research scholar at the Walter H Shorenstein Asia-Pacific Research Center at Stanford University, told Vaishnav that the expectation that India would or should join the United States in a future military response to a Chinese takeover of Taiwan is the wrong benchmark with which to assess US-India security cooperation.

How can we expect India, which is a relatively new partner of the United States with a very different history and a very different geography, to have the same degree of alignment with the United States that even treaty allies dont have? asked Tarapore. If even countries like France and Japan cant have that degree of alignment, we certainly cant expect to India to have that degree of alignment that some people seem to expect.

But Tarapore stressed that theres a considerable amount the two countries can do together, short of coalition warfare. For instance, Tarapore argued that the United States should bolster Indias efforts to extend its military posture in the Indian Ocean region, support Indias development of high-value niche military capabilities and intensify its diplomatic coordination with India.

According to Tarapore, India and the United States could develop a better combined posture in the Eastern Indian Ocean region that includes another joint partnerAustralia. What this concretely means is having ships and aircrafts and munitions positionedthat can better safeguard Indian security interests there, as well as U.S. and Australian interests, said Tarapore. The three countries could share rotational deployments, or put their forces on the bases of the other countries.

Tarapore also sees value in the United States and India coordinating more closely on diplomatic outreach, especially when it comes to countries in the Global Southwith whom India enjoy a unique standing. It is exactly this difference in political relationships and political interests thatcould prove to be a huge asset to the partnership, said Tarapore. Where the United States and India agree on a common set of interestsespecially revolving around Chinese coercion or aggressionIndias voice can actually help to take that common message to corners of the world where the United States does reach. In other words, the United States and India do not have to agree on everything because they agree on one big thingChina. It is exactly that divergence between the United States and India that can prove to be an advantage it if it is mobilizedin advance of an act of aggression in the Indo-Pacific.
With at least 37 of his 53 MLAs defecting and joining hands with the BJP-Sena government in Maharashtra, Sharad Pawar, 82, said he would not be pursuing a legal battle, choosing instead to go to the people directly. There is no need to fight this battle legally, and neither do I have any issues if someone claims ownership over the NCP. We will go to people and seek their support. I am confident they will support us, said Sharad Pawar on Sunday evening hours after his nephew, Ajit Pawar claimed that the NCP would ally with the BJP in the 2024 Lok Sabha and Maharashtra Assembly elections. NCP chief Sharad Pawar. (PTI)

Pawars comments, which mean the NCP will not see the sort of bruising legal battle the Shiv Sena did under strangely similar circumstances, lend credence to a theory doing the rounds that there was no way some of the NCP leaders that have gone with Ajit Pawar would have done so without his knowledge, and that the senior Pawar, known for his Machiavellian politics may well be hedging his bets for 2024.

Among the 37 NCP MLAs who have defected-- and that number is likely to go up in the next few daysare some of Pawars closest aides, Dilip Walse-Patil and Chhagan Bhujbal. But, Pawar said he was undeterred by the split and that he would rebuild his party from scratch.

The Maratha leader who has spent over five decades in politics said such a crisis was not new to him. In 1980 too, when he had tried to split the Congress to form a government in alliance with the Left parties, 52 of the 58 MLAs dissented and refused to go with his plan. However just two years later he went on to become Maharashtras youngest chief minister with a whopping 79 MLAs supporting him.

On Sunday, even as Ajit Pawar was telling the media in Mumbai that he had the blessing of the entire party, speaking from his Modi Baug residence in Pune Sharad Pawar announced that he intended to rebuild his political base from the very next day. His first public meeting, he said, would be in Karad, Satara, on Monday which will start with him paying tribute at the memorial of his mentor, YB Chavan.

Jitendra Awhad, the NCP MLA from Mumbra-Kalwa, was announced as the new Leader of Opposition in Assembly, replacing Ajit Pawar. By evening, Pawars daughter and Baramati MP Supriya Sule had reached the NCP headquarters at Rashtrawadi Bhavan at Ballard Estate with her husband Sadanand Sule and children Revati and Vijay. Two weeks ago, she had been appointed as the executive president of the NCP in anticipation of exactly such a rebellion. She was accompanied by several party workers from all over the city who defaced Ajit Pawars posters outside the office. In a closed door meeting, where she reportedly broke down, an emotional Sule appealed to the remaining party workers and leaders to stick together. She was later joined by Anil Deshmukh who flew in from Nagpur and Jayant Patil who arrived from Pune. Those who have left the party are crows, said an angry party worker outside the NCP headquarter, while those of us who remain with Pawar saab are like Shivajis soldiers. (Gele te kavle, rahile te mavle).

Sharad Pawar in his press briefing also took potshots at Prime Minister Modi: I am happy that he has absolved some NCP colleagues of corruption charges as they are now inducted as ministers in the government, he said referring to the PMs remarks last week in Bhopal where he had accused the NCP and its leaders of being embroiled in corruption.

The NCP chief however hinted that he will be taking action against senior leaders Praful Patel and Sunil Tatkare. As NCP president, I had appointed Praful Patel and Sunil Tatkare but they did not follow their responsibilities therefore I have to take some action against them if they do not resign from their current posts, he said. Praful Patel, had been elected as the working president the same time as Supriya Sules elevation, while Tatkare was made the partys general secretary.

When asked about the impact of the split in his family, Pawar said, I will never say that my home has split; this issue is not regarding my family, this is about the people of Maharashtra. I am also worried about the future of those who left the party. I want to give the credit for this to PM Modi. Two days ago, he had made certain statements and after that statement these people began feeling uneasy as some of them were facing ED investigation.

He added that in this time of crisis, national opposition leaders such as Mamata Banerjee and Mallikarjun Kharge had reached to him promising their support and he said that he would be participating in all national opposition meetings in future.

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Samajwadi Party leader Akhilesh Yadav on Sunday hit out at the BJP after NCP's Ajit Pawar joined the Shinde-Fadnavis government in Maharashtra. He said, BJP does this from time to time, first they did this in Madhya Pradesh, and then in Maharashtra, but people are watching this. SP leader Akhilesh Yadav (HT File)

NCP leader Ajit Pawar along with 9 other party leaders took oath; Ajit as the deputy chief minister of Maharashtra - a position he will share with Bharatiya Janata Party leader Devendra Fadnavis.

Addressing a press conference after taking oath as the deputy chief minister Pawar said, If we can go with Shiv Sena, we can go with the BJP. It is for the state's development.

The NCP leader further said that he had not seen a single leader from the opposition who is fighting for the cause of the country. In fact, since 1984 no leader singlehandedly led the country, he said and added, But PM Modi has been doing it for the last nine years. He is popular abroad. We want to join his development.

Pawar further said that all MLAs are with him and there is no need to worry. All the MLAs, MPs, and workers of the party (NCP) are with us that's why I took oath as Deputy CM We will go together in the General elections and Assembly elections, he said.

Earlier today, a gathering of NCP legislators took place at Ajit Pawar's residence in Mumbai. The meeting was attended by the party's working president Supriya Sule and senior leader Chhagan Bhujbal.

(With inputs from PTI)
The Bharatiya Janata Party is the biggest gainer from Sundays developments that saw Ajit Pawar and a raft of Nationalist Congress Party leaders join the Maharashtra government. In one move, the BJP has weakened the Maharashtra Vikas Aghadi (MVA), gain the upper hand over its ally, the Eknath Shinde-ed Shiv Sena (and also chief minister Shinde himself), and improved its prospects in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections in the state. Maharashtra deputy chief minister Devendra Fadnavis with NCP leaders at Raj Bhavan in Mumbai. (Anshuman Poyrekar/HT)

The similarities between Sundays events and last years, when the BJP managed to effect a split in the Sena are clear. Yet, there is one big difference. The split in the Sena did not really seem to weaken the MVA, and the BJPs Mission 45, under which it targeted winning 45 of the 48 Lok Sabha seats in the state appeared out of reach. But with questions being asked about the future of the Sharad Pawar-led remnant of the NCP, the MVA is now weaker (as the work-in-progress national opposition grouping-in-the-making). A weaker MVA is expected to improve the BJPs prospects in certain parts of Maharashtra .

Also Read: In another Maha twist, Ajit splits NCP, becomes Dy CM

In an interview to Hindustan Times on Thursday, deputy chief minister and BJP leader Devendra Fadnavis admitted that their number of MPs in Maharashtra may decrease, as the Uddhav Thackeray faction still enjoyed a strength in the state, and added there could be drop in their seats but the number would not be dropped to 22 from 42.

A BJP leader who asked not to be named put numbers to this theory, and said the party could now make inroads into 11 Lok Sabha constituencies that were previously the NCPs stronghold.. These NCP bastions have a completely different voter base. Our only option was to create a dent in the party by poaching their leaders. This will help us enter districts in western Maharashtra, including Pune, Satara and others.

Also Read: When did it all start? Tracing Ajit Pawar's long history of revolt and rebellion

And Ajit Pawars entry provides the perfect way for the BJP to offset Shinde. Fadnavis and Ajit Pawar are believed to enjoy a warm relationship. We have managed to create an alternative to the Shinde faction by inducting some of Maharashtras stalwarts into the cabinet, admitted the BJP leader cited above. Shinde and his party, this person added, did not create the impact that was expected and this was disclosed to both the CM and deputy CM last month by the BJPs central leadership last month. Keeping Shinde in check is foremost on the partys agenda, the BJP leader said, referring to the controversial advertisement released by the Chief Minister a fortnight ago that created a rift between the two parties. The ads seemed to suggest that Shinde was everyones first choice of CM and played down the importance of the BJP and deputy CM Fadnavis.

State BJP chief Chandrashekhar Bawankule said, The NCP MLAs have joined the government keeping full faith in the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. This will help Maharashtra and the country to take another leap. We are happy that the two deputy chief ministers will work in the interest of the state.

Also Read: Ajit Pawar changes Twitter bio after taking oath as Maharashtra deputy CM

Another BJP leader however expressed apprehension over the two splits the BJP has effected in two main opposition parties in the state over the past year. The voters may be disgruntled by these developments, although they may not completely go against the Modi government for want of powerful opposition, this person added.

But he was quick to add that this factor too had been taken into account.

We have been told by our central leaders that a weaker opposition proves more beneficial (to us) than any damage to our image from breaking the parties.

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A year after the Shiv Sena led by Uddhav Thackeray saw a split after the rebellion of Eknath Shinde with his 40 supporters, Ajit Pawar has led the second rebellion by swearing-in with eight of his party colleagues. His aides claim they have almost the same number of NCP MLAs with them. PREMIUM BJP leader Devendra Fadnavis and NCP leader Ajit Pawar at Raj Bhavan in Mumbai on Sunday. (Anshuman Poyrekar/HT Photo)

In a span of a year, the BJP has managed to engineer two splits in two regional parties in Maharashtra that were strong. While Uddhav Thackeray has even lost the party, it is not yet clear what will happen in case of the NCP  just like Eknath Shinde, Ajit Pawar has claimed that his is the original party.

The roots of the two splits were sown in 2019. NCP chief Sharad Pawar took initiative and formed the opposition coalition Maharashtra Vikas Aghadi to keep the BJP out of power. Uddhav Thackeray joined in his efforts. The leadership of the BJP had then decided to punish both of them  and make both the leaders powerless. It has happened now in a span of one year, said a top state BJP leader, seeking anonymity.

Also Read: Ajit Pawar, the ultimate political player

Ajits rebellion is similar to Shindes: Form a group of majority of MLAs, declare support to the government with the BJP, claim to be the original party. While Shinde succeeded in taking control of the party, what happens in the next few days will decide whether Ajit manages to get the NCP, formed by his uncle in 1999.

Chief minister Shinde, who was urban development minister in the Uddhav Thackeray-led MVA government, walked out of the government on June 20, 2022, the day of the legislative council elections that saw cross-voting by the ruling party members. The rebellion was believed to have been handled by the BJPs central leadership, especially Union home minister Amit Shah and was in making for months before it, party leaders in the know of the matter indicated.

According to party insiders, the success of the rebellion by Shinde and his men was important for the BJP because of the failed attempt to form a government with Ajit Pawar in November 2019. The central leadership not only ensured that Shinde had a sizeable number of MLAs with him, but also managed the split by over two-thirds of the members. This gave the rebellion firm legal ground, though the Sena cadre was not fully with him, a BJP minister said.

Also Read: After NCP joins Maha govt, Shindes MLAs face uncertain future

Ajits rebellion is the second attempt by him after the first failed bid in November 2019. His claim after his rebellion  that he is part of the NCP and his is the real party  will have to be substantiated with numbers. He will have to get the support of at least 36 MLAs from the party to avoid action under the anti-defection law. The first rebellion in November 2019 when he was sworn in as deputy chief minister was derailed by party chief Sharad Pawar. The Supreme Court order over the floor test went in favour of the MVA, which was in the making at that point of time. Ajit Pawar faces the same challenge now to prove his majority within the party.

Ajit began mobilising MLAs in April-May. Unlike in 2019, several senior MLAs such as Chhagan Bhujbal and Dilip Walse-Patil as well as senior leaders such as Praful Patel stood by him. Pawars resignation drama turned out to be a setback in getting MLAs on his side. He has not declared how many MLAs have signed their letters of support this time though his aides insist it is close to 40 out of 53 party MLAs,said a senior NCP leader.

While Shinde succeeded in getting hold of the party, it may not be so easy for Ajit. The Supreme Court in its verdict on the split in Shiv Sena, observed that the strength of elected representatives was not enough to decide who would have the control of the party. It means Ajit will have to show the support of the majority of the party organisation on his side. It could be a tough challenge for him.

Also Read: Baramati rallies behind Ajit dada amid NCP crisis

Both, Shinde and Ajit will have to go to the people for their support.

More than who orcheastrated the splits and who benefited from them, the betrayal of the voters and their mandate is more worrisome today. The voters are upset with every party as they have betrayed their mandate, the trust. The voters want fresh elections to be held in the state. The first rebellion of Shinde happened out of the revenge politics of BJP to teach Thackeray a lesson, while the second has been engineered after the BJP realised that the Shinde faction was has not been able to perform to expectations, said Mumbai-based political analyst Prakash Akolkar.
Bahujan Samaj Party chief Mayawati on Sunday said her party was not against implementing Uniform Civil Code (UCC), which she believed would lead to communal harmony but slammed the Bharatiya Janata Party for "politicising the issue. Bahujan Samaj Party Supremo Mayawati during the meeting with party office bearers at party office in Lucknow.(ANI file photo)

Our party (BSP) is not against the implementation of UCC but we do not support the way BJP is trying to implement Uniform Civil Code in the country. It is not right to politicise this issue and forcefully implement UCC in the country, Mayawati said at a press conference.

The UCC will not weaken the country but strengthen the country and it will also lead to communal harmony.but people having faith on various religions live in the country. They have separate practices and customs and it should not be overlooked," Mayawati added.

She stressed that the UCC must not be forcibly implemented and there should be general consensus on the matter.

Mayawati also alleged the BJP was raking up the issue to divert the attention of the public from contentious issues and problems faced by them. There should not be politics over the UCC.The Article 44 of the Constitution clearly states that the state shall endeavour to secure for the citizens a Uniform Civil Code through the country, she added.

Mayawati's statement comes days after Prime Minister Narendra Modi pushed for the UCC during a programme in Madhya Pradesh's Bhopal. The UCC is a proposal to formulate and implement personal laws of the citizens which will be applicable to every Indian irrespective caste, religion and sexual orientation.

Modi, during a rally on Tuesday, alleged that the opposition was using the UCC issue to incite the Muslim community and slammed the policy of appeasement, which he blamed for the backwardness of some social groups.

Shortly, after Mayawati's presser, Samajwadi Party spokesperson Sunil Singh Sajan reacted to her remarks and said, What Mayawati has said is the same thing that SP chief (Akhilesh Yadav) has been saying time and again that the BJP is trying to set its agenda. SP is always against the agenda of hatred and division being set by the BJP.

The debate surrounding the contentious issue gained momentum again last month after the Law Commission of India called for fresh suggestions from public and religious organisations on the issue.

While the Aam Aadmi Party has extended its in principle support to the UCC, the Congress said it was undesirable at this stage. The Opposition has also charged the Centre of milking the issue for political gains just ahead of the 2024 Lok Sabha election.

BJP ally and Meghalaya chief minister Conrad Sangma and his Kerala counterpart Pinarayi Vijayan have expressed their reservations over the issue. While Sangma said the UCC goes against the idea of India, Vijayan alleged that it was on the electoral agenda of the BJP to press their majoritarian agenda of deepening the communal divide".
The Uttar Pradesh government is investigating security lapses surrounding the murders of gangsters Atiq Ahmed and his brother Ashraf, who were killed while being taken to hospital under police custody in April, the state has informed the Supreme Court in a status report. HT Image

The status report, filed in response to a PIL filed by a lawyer demanding an independent probe into the killings, the state government said, The state is enquiring into the security lapses that led to the three attackers getting through the 17-men strong police cordon and firing at Atiq Ahmed and Ashraf.

The report was filed after the top court, on April 28, asked the state if there were any breaches in security during the killings, and if there was a pattern to the murder, given that Atiqs son Asad was killed in an encounter two days before him.

However, the status report did not reveal details of the probe conducted so far.

The PIL is listed before a bench headed by justice S Ravindra Bhat on Monday.

Posing as journalists, three assailants on April 15 sprayed the two with bullets at a hospital in Prayagraj city around 10.30pm on Saturday, when the police brought the two in for a routine health check-up. Ahmad and Ashraf were speaking to the media and were ring-fenced by policemen when gunshots rang out. The murder was captured live on video.

The killings have posed several difficult questions of the Uttar Pradesh administration and its claims of having cleaned up law and order. Even more worrisome was the brazenness of the murders, which unfolded even as police personnel stood by. The states probe must be fair and accurately pinpoint the breaches in the polices preparedness that allowed the killings, to bolster faith in the states security apparatus.

Three attackers  Lavlesh Tiwari, Mohit and Arun Kumar Maurya  were named in a subsequent FIR and later arrested. The state government earlier also announced that a judicial commission would investigate the killings, which sparked allegations of police laxity and a breakdown of law and order.

Asads death also triggered a political storm, with allegations that the state administration had staged the shootout.

Ahmad  a former five-time state legislator and former Lok Sabha member who has 100 cases against him  and Ashraf were both wanted in the February 24 murder of lawyer Umesh Pal, who was the prime witness in the 2005 killing of Bahujan Samaj Party lawmaker Raju Pal. This was the sixth death of an accused in the February 24 case.

The court, on April 28, also asked if the state had taken any action pursuant to recommendations on police reforms made by a commission headed by former Supreme Court judge, justice (retd) BS Chauhan.

To this, the state in its report, said justice Chauhans primary concern was on the separation of law and order from the investigation wing in police stations.

Since April 2021, the state has carved out 10,877 new posts in various cadres to ensure there is no dearth of manpower, the report said.

Further, investigation units have been formed at important police stations and a police officer of additional superintendent of police rank has been appointed to handle work of crime branch in all districts. To further boost investigation of crimes, forensic labs in the state have been increased from 8 to 12 and local intelligence units have been strengthened in all districts.
Editor's note: July 1, 2023, marks the 102nd anniversary of the founding of the Communist Party of China. Three experts share their views on the Party's governance and the far-reaching impacts of its leadership on the country's economy, trade, people's livelihoods and culture.

Growth miracle stuns world

By Dan Steinbock

Starting from the late 1970s, when the reform and opening-up policy was launched, the Communist Party of China has focused on de-collectivization of agriculture, opening up the country to foreign investment and advanced technology, and encouraging entrepreneurship.

With nationwide industrial takeoff, economic reforms broadened, while price controls, and protectionist policies and regulations were lifted.

Nothing exemplifies the success of China's reform and opening-up more than Shenzhen. In 1979, it was a poor fishing village with some 20,000 residents struggling at subsistence level. Today, it has an urban population of almost 18 million and its per capita GDP (nominal) is more than $27,000, on par with Portugal and Bahrain. In this process, a special catalyst role was played by the special economic zones, which were initiated in coastal China.

In 2018, economic development in Guangdong province moved to a new stage with the launch of the Greater Bay Area, China's "Silicon Valley".

Initially, like Western Europe and Japan in the postwar era, Chinese companies used to imitate global technology leaders. Today, Chinese innovators and high-tech companies such as Huawei and ByteDance (Tik-Tok's parent company) are being imitated by global competitors and cooperators. Hence, the US' efforts to contain Chinese innovators in the name of "national security".

In four decades, Shenzhen has transformed itself from a poor village to one of the most advanced metropolises.

When reform and opening-up were launched in the late 1970s, the standard Western reform packages were shaped by the "Washington Consensus", which promoted disruptive liberalization, deregulation and privatization across the board. Such "reforms" primarily benefited foreign investors, domestic oligarchs and the informal economy, not the ordinary people.

That was not the Chinese path. The Chinese path favors stability, gradual advances and pragmatic experimentation.

While the CPC leadership with former president Jiang Zemin as its core further developed socialism with Chinese characteristics  through his "Theory of Three Represents"  it also launched a campaign against corruption in the 1990s. What paved the way for a decade of export-led double-digit growth was China's membership of the World Trade Organization in 2001. And former president Hu Jintao highlighted the importance of "China's peaceful development".

More important, under President Xi Jinping's leadership, policies have accelerated China's post-industrialization process.

Today China's growth may be slowing relative to the recent past, but its per capita income continues to rise rapidly. In the new era, rebalancing builds on world-class innovation and expanding consumption. Moreover, the eradication of extreme poverty in a developing country of more than 1.4 billion people is a historic achievement.

It is this high-quality growth that supports the rise of the world's largest emerging middle-income group. In 2017, a set of bold objectives for 2035 were adopted as staging posts to achieve the second centenary goal of developing "China into a great modern socialist country that is prosperous, strong, democratic, culturally advanced, harmonious, and beautiful" by the middle of this century. The goal is also to make China a global leader in science and technology, creating a green economy, and reducing the urban-rural income gap.

Through the 20th century, the major economies touted globalization that benefited mainly the West. Their exclusive globalization was supported by the World Bank, the International Monetary Fund, the World Trade Organization and other multilateral institutions. This status quo prevailed as long as the West drove global growth  that is, till the 2000s.

But the West's exclusive globalization is de-integrating, thanks to the United States' two decades of "global war on terror" and half a decade of trade wars, the pandemic-induced global depression, the role of the US and NATO in inciting the Russia-Ukraine conflict, and global de-integration. In fact, the US' desperation to contain China's peaceful rise is part of a broader effort to maintain Western supremacy.

As a percentage of the world's GDP, world trade is at the level where it was around 2006. Worse, global investment net inflows as a percentage of global GDP are less than half of the level in 1999.

And as migration flows are being blocked, the number of forcibly displaced people has soared to almost 110 million, which is nearly three times the level of 1945 after the end of World War II.

Such a state of affairs is inhuman, destructive and untenable.

As secular stagnation is spreading in the West, growth prospects rely increasingly on China and other large emerging economies, which have fueled global growth since the late 2000s. These prospects are supported by the creation of the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank, the BRICS New Development Bank, the Belt and Road Initiative, and the promotion of de-dollarization in bilateral trade.

The new emerging world economy now thrives on inclusive globalization, which seeks to lift all boats, not just a few. The future belongs to multipolar inclusion, not exclusion.

The author is the founder of Difference Group and has served at the India, China and America Institute (US), Shanghai Institutes for International Studies (China) and the EU Centre (Singapore).

The views don't necessarily reflect those of China Daily.

Party leads building of modern civilization

By Liu Dongchao

Chinese civilization has a glorious history of more than 5,000 years. Still, building a modern civilization is a daunting task and a challenging project for the Chinese nation.

Since the First Opium War (1840-42), this project has covered two major stages: the preparatory period from 1840 to 1949 (founding of the People's Republic of China), and the construction period from 1949 to the present.

After experiencing many ups and downs and going through arduous struggles, the Chinese nation has achieved significant progress in building or preliminarily establishing a modern civilization.

And all this has been achieved under the leadership of the Communist Party of China.

Marxism is a political and economic philosophy that uses materialist interpretation of historical socioeconomic development, or historical materialism, to understand social conflict, and dialectics to analyze social transformation.

However, to ensure it plays a key role in the transformation of Chinese society, Marxism must be combined with China's reality and integrated with China's fine traditional culture. This process can be called Sinicizing and modernizing Marxism.

In the process of building a modern civilization, the CPC, after going through the stages of exploration and summarization, gains and losses, and optimization and refinement for more than a century, has developed a massive, effective policy system.

From a legal perspective, this system covers several levels, from the Constitution to local regulations for cultural activities.

In terms of content, the system can be divided into two major parts: building of a material civilization and building of a spiritual civilization.

As for spiritual civilization, it includes the protection, inheritance and use of fine traditional culture, as well as modern socialist culture. Ample resources and the correct approach to handle those resources are required to build a modern civilization.

The CPC has attached great importance to cultural resources, in war times as well as during the socialist construction period.

In 1942, Chairman Mao Zedong called on the Chinese people to inherit the excellent literary and artistic heritage, both foreign and Chinese, critically absorb all things beneficial, and use them as reference when describing the lives of the people in their works. He went a step further in 1964 to propose the principle that encourages the Chinese people to use "the past to serve the present and the foreign to serve China".

After the launch of reform and opening-up, late leader Deng Xiaoping, reiterating this principle, stressed the need to dialectically handle domestic and foreign cultural resources.

And after being elected general secretary of the CPC Central Committee at the 18th National Congress of the CPC in 2012, Xi Jinping put forward the concept of creatively transforming and innovatively developing fine traditional Chinese culture and promoting exchanges and mutual learning among civilizations. Over the years, Party leaders have recognized the richness and importance of traditional and foreign resources, and proposed an effective way of using resources in the construction of modern Chinese civilization.

Especially in the new era, traditional and foreign resources have played a significant role in the construction of modern Chinese civilization. For example, ancient Chinese literature, poetry in particular, was once confined to books and exchanges among scholars. Today, TV programs such as the "Chinese Poetry Competition" have made millions of people appreciate poetry, and inspired more people to participate in poetry competitions.

The establishment of the national park system is another example. Originating in the United States in the second half of the 19th century, this system helps the authorities to better protect the environment and ecology including rare and threatened flora and fauna. China issued the overall plan for establishing a national park system in September 2017. And thanks to this system, China has better protected ecological and cultural resources.

Under the Party's leadership, and due to people's cultural contributions, China's national characteristics are manifested in the inheritance of the outstanding traditional culture and core socialist values. They can be seen in the significant development of cultural facilities including museums, as well as in the systematic protection and use of intangible cultural heritage. They can also be seen in the rapid development of China's science and technology sector.

According to the report of the 20th Party Congress in October 2022, China has built the world's largest network of high-speed railways and expressways, as well as airports, ports, and water conservancy projects, power generation and supply infrastructure, while improving information and other infrastructure facilities. It has also become stronger in basic research and innovation, made breakthroughs in some core technologies, and boosted emerging strategic sectors. And these national characteristics, rich with contemporary connotations, are reflected in modern Chinese civilization.

The author is a professor in the department of literature and history research at the Party School of the CPC Central Committee.

The views don't necessarily reflect those of China Daily.

BRI promotes inclusive globalization, peace

By HISHAM ABUBAKR METWALLY MOHAMED

Ten years after the launch of the Belt and Road Initiative, we can safely say that the initiative has been helping build an inclusive global economy.

In 2013, President Xi Jinping proposed the Belt and Road Initiative to help improve infrastructure connectivity between China and the rest of the world, especially Eurasia, the Middle East and Europe, and Southeast Asia and Africa.

From the initial 34 countries to more than 150 countries in the 10th year, the initiative has attracted three-fourths of the countries in the world and over 30 international organizations due to its development programs.

What's more, the Belt and Road Initiative is in line with the United Nations Development Programme, the African Union's Agenda 2063 development plan, and many other countries' development initiatives.

For example, during his visit to Saudi Arabia in December last year, President Xi and Saudi Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman signed agreements on "harmonizing" Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 with the Belt and Road Initiative.

And Egyptian Minister of International Cooperation Rania Al Mashat has said the Belt and Road Initiative is consistent with Egypt's national development priorities and goals.

The initiative has strengthened infrastructure in partner countries, helping them pursue their development goals and bolster their industry, value and supply chains.

The Belt and Road Initiative is not only about building roads, railways, ports, dams and other infrastructure facilities, but rather a major global opening-up initiative. In fact, it has helped build hundreds of industrial parks around the world.

The Belt and Road Initiative also facilitates the development of e-commerce in partner countries, and promotes green development. In general, it is helping a large part of the global economy to shift to the green development path.

The initiative does not differentiate between small and big, or developing and developed economies, because it is focused on planning and building large-scale infrastructure development projects, improving connectivity, facilitating cross-border trade and investment, boosting cooperation among economies, and increasing people-to-people exchanges.

The volume of trade and investments under the Belt and Road framework increased from $1 trillion in 2013 to $2 trillion in 2023, an average annual increase of 8 percent.

Moreover, according to the World Bank, the Belt and Road Initiative is expected to reduce shipping time in Africa by up to 11.9 percent, and trade costs by up to 10.2 percent. Given that 90 percent of Africa's imports and exports pass through the sea, this will enhance the efficiency of African ports and boost their cargo handling capacity.

Another example of the initiative's achievement is the Ain Sokhna port project in Egypt, which aims to develop into an international trade hub and promote investment in the region.

Also, the International Highway Project in the United Arab Emirates, the Doha Port project in Qatar, the Tangier Med Port Development Project in Morocco, a railway project in Tunisia and other such projects have been successfully implemented.

Indeed, the Belt and Road Initiative has enabled the transfer of China's high-quality infrastructure building technology and management expertise to the rest of the world.

However, the greatest aspect of the initiative is that it promotes peace, cooperation, openness, mutual benefit, helps develop mutual political trust, and facilitates economic integration for the benefit of all.

Furthermore, the initiative aims to help improve global governance and make economic globalization more inclusive and fair, while providing equal opportunities for all to achieve growth and prosperity.

The author is an economics researcher at the Egyptian Ministry of Trade and Industry.
Uttarakhand chief minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Saturday met Union defence minister Rajnath Singh. He also met Union fisheries, animal husbandry and dairying minister Parshottam Rupala in New Delhi on Sunday. Chief minister Pushkar Singh Dhami greets Union defence minister Rajnath Singh in New Delhi (HT Photo)

Dhami said he has requested Union defence minister Singh to dissolve the Cantonment Boards in Ranikhet and Lansdowne and transfer the areas outside the military stations to the state administration, while he has urged Rupala to release the remaining funds for livestock insurance under the National Livestock Mission scheme in the state.

Ranikhet and Lansdowne are not strategic cantonments, so they should be dissolved on priority. Dissolution of Cantonment Boards and transfer of civil areas in these cities to local municipalities/district administrations will benefit the local population. It will also help in unlocking the tourism potential of such areas, Dhami said.

Expressing gratitude to Singh for recommending the opening of an Ex-Servicemen Contributory Health Scheme (ECHS) centre for ex-servicemen and their dependents in Rudraprayag district, Dhami requested the defence minister that a CSD canteen should also be set up for ex-servicemen and their dependents on the premises of the polyclinic at ECHS centre.

The Uttarakhand CM also requested Singh for the transfer of four acres of NRTO (National Technical Research Organisation) land for the expansion of Jolly Grant Airport Dehradun. He said the state government is ready to provide alternative land to NRTO.

Dhami also requested the Union defence minister to allow the Uttarakhand government to use Joshimath and Dharchula Army helipads for operating Regional Connectivity Scheme (RCS) services.

Dhami said Union defence minister Rajnath Singh assured him of all possible cooperation on these issues.

Dhami, who met Union animal husbandry minister Rupala on Sunday, said they discussed issues related to animal husbandry and the dairy sector in the state.

In the meeting with the Union animal husbandry minister, Dhami urged to release of the remaining funds for livestock insurance under the National Livestock Mission scheme and to make available the services of mobile veterinary vehicles operating in the state in the remaining 35 development blocks.

Expressing gratitude for the cooperation in the development of Uttarakhand, Dhami said that schemes related to animal husbandry have an important place in various employment schemes being run in the state.

Livestock insurance is being operated by the government of India under the National Livestock Mission Scheme for the cattle herders of the marginal hilly and plain areas of the state.

In 2022-23, an amount of 14 crore was received against 40 crore approved under the scheme, in which the Centres share was 8.67 crore and the states share was 5.58 crore. Against the target of livestock insurance in the state, a total of 1,45,451 animals have been insured under the scheme.

The chief minister requested the Rupala to make available the remaining funds of the approved budget to achieve the goals of the approved scheme.

Dhami said that in Uttarakhand, 60 mobile veterinary vehicles are being operated with the aim of providing medical facilities of modern technology at the doorstep of cattle rearers in the state. Through these, the treatment of 58,392 animals has been done at the doorsteps of the cattle rearers, he said.

The CM urged the minister to provide 7.86 crore for similar services in the remaining 35 development blocks of the state.

Dhami said that to ensure the health of the sheep and goats of the state, the PPR (Peste des petits Ruminants or Goat Plague ) eradication scheme is being implemented with the help of the Centre. For the ambitious vaccination plan to make the state PPR free by 2030, 14 lakh doses of vaccines are needed in Uttarakhand, he said.
Kolkata: In the run-up to any election in West Bengal over the past 10 years, Asaduddin Siddique (48) would distribute leaflets in his village in Murshidabad district, urging residents not to engage in violence. This time around, however, he has given up on his awareness campaign. People dont understand life is more precious than a vote: Bengal poll violence victims

Nothing seems to have changed. Violence still continues and people are still dying. They dont understand that a life is more precious than one vote, Siddique told HT.

The small-time businessman from Beldanga village had lost his wife Nurjahan to a crude bomb explosion near a polling booth on the day of voting for panchayat elections on July 22, 2013.

Ten years on, as the eastern state is in the middle of hotly contested panchayat elections again, Siddique has come to terms that it would take a proactive resolve by various political parties to stop poll violence.

Recalling that fateful day in 2013 which shattered his family, Siddique said: My wife had just come out of the house looking for our younger daughter. When she was returning home, a crude bomb exploded and shrapnel pierced her stomach.

Siddique was survived by his two daughters  eight and three  and a son who was only one-and-a-half years old at the time.

After his wifes death, Siddiqui took it upon himself to create awareness among fellow residents about the devastation of poll violence. His leaflets carried the pictures of his three children and a message that they did not get help from anyone  poll panel, state government, police, human rights commission and political parties. Even though a first information report (FIR) was registered with the Beldanga police station, no one has been arrested in connection with the case, he said.

Ahead of the July 8 panchayat polls in West Bengal, violence and clashes have been reported from various parts of the state, claiming at least 12 lives and injuring several others so far, according to police data.

The eastern state has had a long history of poll violence abetted by various political parties in fray. During the 2018 panchayat polls, the state reported 20 deaths; the toll stood at 39 in 2013 and 76 five years ago.

Following sporadic incidents of violence reported ahead of the three-tier panchayat polls, the Calcutta high court has directed the State Election Commission to deploy central paramilitary forces across the state. In 2013, too, the high court had issued a similar direction to the state government.

Sufal Sikdar, a resident of Nadia district, had to abandon his studies and join his family business after his father Biplab Sikdar was shot dead in May 2018.

My father was a BJP [Bharatiya Janata Party] booth president at Melermath in Nadias Shantipur. He was shot dead while he was sleeping in the house after the 2018 panchayat poll results were declared, Sufal recalled. The BJP had won the Melermath panchayat.

Biplab ran a small factory from his house dealing in coloring of cotton strings which were later used for weaving sarees. He was the only bread-earner of the three-member family, comprising his wife and son. Sufal was only 19 at the time of his fathers death and pursing bachelors in philosophy at Shantipur college. I had to take up the profession and quit studies, Sufal said. Till date we havent got justice, even though a case was registered.

Bhola Dafadar, a Trinamool Congress worker, was stabbed and shot dead on May 13, 2018. He was returning home on the polling day, when CPI(M)-backed goons caught him. He was dragged to a house where they stabbed him and shot him dead, Bholas nephew Shafikul Dafadar said. Bombs were also hurled at his house.

After Bholas death, his 25-year-old son took up a job to wash cars and buses in Delhi and left the village. Shafikul is contesting the panchayat poll from Bilkumari village at Nakashipara in Nadia district on a TMC ticket. All the accused in the case are out on bail, he added.

Nripen Mondol, a Congress block president of Habibpur in Malda, was shot dead days ahead of the 2013 panchayat polls. His brother Malin Mondol, who looks after Nripens wife and two children  a son and a daughter who were seven and 16 years old back then  said they have lost track of the case. I heard that a few people were arrested but all are now on bail and the case is still continuing, Malin added.

The ruling TMC and the Opposition BJP in the state blame each other for inciting violence.

West Bengal is politically a very hyper-sensitive state. This time candidates of the opposition parties, who have lost the peoples support and are being rejected, are triggering the violence to create an unrest, TMC MP Santanu Sen said. There are 341 blocks and violence has been reported in only four-five blocks.

BJP spokesperson Samik Bhattacharya said violence was introduced in Bengal politics by the totalitarian approach of the Left. The TMC rule is all about hegemony... They betrayed the people, Bhattacharya said. Then there is economics. There is no industry and no job but huge natural resources such as sand, coal, fertile land and porous international border among others. The ruling party wants to control these.

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The high court also rejected her plea for an interim bail for 30 days. The Mumbai-based activist was granted interim bail by the Supreme Court in September last year and was consequently released from judicial custody in the case.

The high court order compelled Setalvad to rush to the top court, which allowed her an urgent hearing. In the Supreme Court, the matter was referred to a larger three-judge bench at 9pm, after a two-judge bench failed to agree on granting her protection earlier. Setalvad was, at last, provided the interim bail relief by the three-judge bench led by justice BR Gavai, which observed that heavens wont fall if the interim protection is granted".

Who is Teesta Setalvad?

1)Setalvad is accused of indulging in a larger conspiracy surrounding the 2002 Gujarat riots and purportedly making efforts to implicate Prime Minister Narendra Modi and other individuals in the riots. The prosecution alleged that she received 30 lakh from late Congress leader Ahmed Patel, with the aim of the Gujarat government led by Modi following the 2002 post-Godhra riot cases.

2)The 61-year-old activist-journalist was arrested on June 25, with two others, for fabricating evidence to frame innocent people in the cases. The arrest came a day after the top court gave a clean chit to Modi, who was the then Gujarat chief minister and others in the case.

3)An FIR was filed against her and former Gujarat director general of police RB Sreekumar and ex-IPS officer Sanjiv Bhatt, after the apex court dismissed the plea filed by Zakia Jafri, widow of former Congress MP Ehsan Jafri, who had challenged the clean chit given by the SIT to Modi and others. Jafri had alleged a "larger conspiracy" behind the post-Godhra incident riots. However, the SIT in the apex court had opposed the plea and claimed her complaint was directed by Teesta Setalvad, who levelled allegations just to keep the pot boiling.

4)Setalvad was awarded Padma Shri, one of the highest civilian awards in the country, by the Congress-led United Progressive Alliance government in 2007 and currently serves as the secretary of Citizens for Justice and Peace, a human rights organisation she founded in 2002.

5)She has also served as a former member of the erstwhile Planning Commission.

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The United States is gearing up to celebrate 247th anniversary of its independence on 4th July. The celebrations involve parades, fireworks, official ceremonies and events and picnic gatherings by the citizens. The Star-Spangled Banner, the national anthem of the United States is sung during various events to mark the historic day. The United States will celebrate 247th anniversary of its independence on 4th July. (Getty Images)

Here are five interesting facts related to 4th of July- US Independence Day.

ALSO READ| 4th July 2023 celebrations: Things to do in New York for a lifetime experience

Voting for Independence was not done on July 4th

The second Continental Congress voted for America's Independence on July 2. July 4, 1776, is significant because on the day Congress officially adopted the Declaration of Independence document.

In fact, John Adams who was important leader of the American war of Independence and the second US President, predicted 2nd July to be celebrated as Independence Day. In a letter to his wife, Abigail, Adams wrote: "The second day of July, 1776, will be celebrated by succeeding generations as the great anniversary festival. It ought to be solemnized with pomp and parade, with shows, games, sports, guns, bells, bonfires, and illumination, from one end of this continent to the other, from this time forward forevermore."

The Declaration of Independence, U.S. Constitution and other documents were secretly stored at Fort Knox after the attack on Pearl Harbour during World War II

The attack on Pearl Harbour by Japan on December 7, 1941, during World War II, was a major event in US' history. While it raised grave questions about national security, Secret Service Agent Harry Neal was given the responsibility of moving "priceless historical documents" to a secure facility away from USA's capital Washington, D.C. In consultation with librarian Archibald MacLeish at the Library of Congress, Neal got important documents including The Declaration of Independence, transported to Fort Knox, which is near Louisville, Kentucky. Abraham Lincolns Gettysburg Address, the Gutenberg Bible and the Articles of Confederation were also moved to Fort Knox. The Declaration of Independence was returned to Washington, D.C., in 1944.

Reason behind folding the National Flag of United States in the shape of a triangle

The National Flag of United States is folded in the shape of a triangle to replicate the iconic "tri-cornered" hat that soldiers wore in the Continental Army during the Revolutionary War.

Fourth of July wasnt a federal holiday until 1870

It was in 1870 that for the first time, 4th of July was made an unpaid federal holiday. It took more than 70 years for it to be declared a paid federal holiday, in 1941.

Bristol has been hosting the Fourth of July Parade for the longest time

Bristol, Rhode Island has been conducting Fourth of July Parade annually since 1785. It is considered to be the oldest annual 4th of July celebration to date.
Marine scientists have discovered a new octopus nursery off the coast of Costa Rica, according to the Schmidt Ocean Institute. The newly found nursery is almost two miles below the surface of the Pacific Ocean. The site was found during a 19-day expedition by a team of 20 scientists led by Dr Beth Orcutt of the Bigelow Laboratory for Ocean Sciences and Dr Jorge Cortes of the University of Costa Rica. Newly discovered octopus nursery off the coast of Costa Rica.(Twitter/SchmidtOcean)

A statement published on the website of the Schmidt Ocean Institute quotes its executive director Dr Jyotika Virmani, "The discovery of a new active octopus nursery over 2,800 meters beneath the sea surface in Costa Rican waters proves there is still so much to learn about our ocean."

The scenes documented on video during the #OctoOdyssey expedition are stunning and informative: octopus nurseries, unexplored seamounts, unexpected geological features, and a high diversity of creatures! the institute wrote posting a video of the expedition on Twitter.

The octopuses in the newly-found nursery belong to the genus of Muusoctopus, and dont have ink sacs - an organ found in most cephalopods.

During the expedition, the researchers also spotted another active nursery. When it was discovered first in 2013, no developing embryos were detected. However, researchers confirmed that the Dorado Outcrop, previously identified as a gathering site for deep-sea octopuses, is indeed an active nursery.

Dr. Rachel Lauer, a geoscience professor at the University of Calgary in Canada, described her reaction to the discoveries made during the expedition. "I was bouncing off the walls," she said.

The two nurseries, plus another one off the coast of Monterey, California, brings the total number of known octopus nurseries up to three.
Network infrastructure and 5G technology provider Nokia has signed a new long-term patent license agreement with Apple to replace the current deal between the two companies that is set to expire at the end of 2023. Nokia expects to recognize revenue related to the agreement starting January 2024(Reuters)

The deal, which enables Apple to use the Finnish company's technology in its products, covers Nokia's inventions in 5G and other technologies. The terms of the agreement announced late Friday remain confidential.

Nokia expects to recognise revenue related to the agreement starting January 2024, and the company said the deal is consistent with its long-term outlook disclosed in the first quarter.

The agreement reflects the strength of Nokia's patent portfolio, decades-long investments in Rand D, and contributions to cellular standards and other technologies, Nokia Technologies President Jenni Lukander said in a statement.

The previous license agreement between Apple and Nokia was announced in May 2017.

Nokia said its patent portfolio is built on more than 140 billion euro (USD 153 billion) invested in research and development since 2000, and is composed of around 20,000 patent families, including over 5,500 patent families declared essential to 5G.

The Espoo, Finland -based Nokia is one of the world's main suppliers of 5G, the latest generation of broadband technology, along with Sweden's Ericsson, China's Huawei and South Korea's Samsung.

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Dal and rice is a combination that many love and some even like eating it as their comfort food. On the other hand, sushi is a Japanese delicacy that people enjoy once in a while. Are you someone who likes both the dishes? Then how would you feel about them being served together in a whole new fusion dish? As for netizens, most were not convinced that it is a combination that they would like to try. A few even went on to say that it is an insult to both the dishes. The image shows the dal-rice sushi. Would you like to try it? (Instagram/@anushreebhutada)

Instagram user Anushree shared a video that shows her making the dish. Recreated the OG comfort food - dal & rice and turned it into sushi! I know its not conventional, but I loved this little creative challenge for myself and the cherry on the top? Got mummas approval! Plain rice, pomegranate & garlic chutney, lachha pyaaz, sukhi dal, dal tadka on the side. All of these elements went SO well together, it had everything - sweetness, spice, sourness and it tasted really good, almost like a hug, she also shared while posting the video.

Also Read: Sushi gets an ice cream twist and people are not ready for it

What does the fusion sushi video show?

The video opens to show someone pouring daal on a plate filled with sushi. As the video progresses, it becomes clear that the sushi is also made using rice, chutney, and other ingredients.

Take a look at the video:

How did the video make you feel? For some netizens, they were not happy and didnt hold back while expressing just that.

Heres how some Instagram users shared how they dont like the Dal-rice sushi dish:

Why, why , why though, asked an Instagram user. Please dont insult the cuisine, joined another. Im crying, please dont do it again, added a third. Dont, just dont, shared a fourth. Nah! No! No! No! wrote a fifth.

A few, however, shared that they like the concept:

Unique concept, commented an Instagram user. This is so good, added another. Damnnnnn. I love your creativity, expressed a third.

The video was posted some five days ago. Since being shared, it has accumulated close to 1.4 million views and the numbers are only increasing. What are your thoughts on the video? Would you like to try the dish?
Rioters in France rammed a car into the home of the mayor of a town south of Paris, injuring his wife and one of his children, mayor Vincent Jeanbrun said on Sunday. The mayor L'Hay-les-Roses town tweeted that protesters "rammed a car" into his home before setting a fire while his family slept. A municipal police officer stands in front of the damaged home of the mayor of l'Hay-les-Roses Vincent Jeanbrun, a suburb of Paris, on Sunday, after rioters rammed a vehicle into the building injuring his wife and one of his children,(AFP)

"Last night a milestone was reached in horror and disgrace," the mayor tweeted.

The incident took place on the fifth night of chaos across France, where rioters have set cars on fire, attacked infrastructure, and clashed with security forces after police shot dead a 17-year-old boy, Nahel M, trying to flee a traffic stop.

"My wife and one of my children were injured," said Jeanbrun. "It was an attempted murder of unspeakable cowardice."

Police made 719 arrests nationwide by early Sunday after a mass security deployment aimed at quelling France's worst social upheaval in years.

Also Read: China complains to France after Chinese tourist bus attacked amid riots

The fast-spreading crisis is posing a new challenge to President Emmanuel Macron's leadership and exposing deep-seated discontent in low-income neighbourhoods over discrimination and lack of opportunity.

The 17-year-old whose death on Tuesday spawned the anger, identified by his first name Nahel, was laid to rest Saturday in a Muslim ceremony in his hometown of Nanterre, a Paris suburb where emotion over his loss remains raw.

As night fell over Paris, a small crowd gathered on the Champs-Elysees for a protest over Nahel's death and police violence but met hundreds of officers with batons and shields guarding the iconic avenue and its Cartier and Dior boutiques. In a less-chic neighbourhood of northern Paris, protesters set off volleys of firecrackers and lit barricades on fire as police shot back with tear gas and stun grenades.

Several schools, police stations, town halls and stores have been targeted by fires or vandalism in recent days but such a personal attack on a mayor's home is unusual.

Skirmishes erupted in the Mediterranean city of Marseille but appeared less intense than the night before, according to the Interior Ministry. A beefed-up police contingent arrested 55 people there.

(With inputs from agencies)

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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
Massive protests and riots rocked across France, especially in the neighbourhood of Nanterre in Paris, after the killing of a 17-year-old teenager by a police officer during a traffic stop. Identified as Nahel M, who was of Algerian origin, was shot at point-blank range in the chest on Tuesday. French riot police officers stand guard next to a burnt out trash bin during a demonstration against police in Marseille, southern France on July 1, 2023, after a fourth consecutive night of rioting in France over the killing of a teenager by police. (AFP)

Also read: UK warns nationals going to France of travel disruption amid unrest

According to reports, the officer who shot Nahel is being investigated for voluntary homicide after a primary investigation concluded that the conditions for the legal use of the weapon was not met. However, the officer has claimed that he fired the shot as he feared the boy was going to run someone over with his car.

The incident has again exposed the severe racial tensions in modern France and the longstanding grievances about policing.

Who was Nahel M?

Reportedly, Nahel worked as a takeaway delivery driver and had been an active member of the Pirates of Nanterre rugby club for the past three years. He had also been a part of an integration programme for teenagers struggling in school - run by an association called Ovale Citoyen. While the teen's family has not revealed his surname, he was the only child raised by his mother Mounia. Nahel's mother has alleged that her son was killed because he had an "Arab face." The officer saw an Arab face, a little kid, and wanted to take his life, she said. Reportedly, Nahel was enrolled at a college in Suresnes to train to be an electrician. However, his attendance record in college was poor. Nahel had also been in trouble before and was known to police, however his family lawyers said that he had no criminal record, reported BBC.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Ed Cassano, the leader of the search team that located the remains of the ill-fated Titan submersible, was visibly moved while recounting the recovery mission. In a news conference, Cassano, the CEO of Pelagic Research Services, shared the emotional journey his team experienced during the operation. Edward Cassano speaks during a news conference on the Titan submersible are displayed.(AP)

From the outset, Cassano emphasized that their primary focus was on rescuing the crew of the Titan. Pelagic Research Services swiftly deployed their remotely operated vehicle, the Odysseus 6K, and reached the underwater wreckage of the Titanic at a depth of approximately 12,500 feet within a remarkable 90 minutes.

However, any hopes of finding survivors aboard the Titan quickly dissipated. Cassano somberly revealed, "Shortly after arriving on the seafloor, we discovered the debris of the Titan submersible." The tone shifted from rescue to recovery by noon.

During his address to the press, Cassano struggled to hold back tears, overcome by the weight of the situation. Apologizing for his emotions, he emphasized the exhaustion and intense emotions experienced by the team. He urged everyone to "recognize the seriousness of the event and respect the death and range of emotions" felt by those involved.

Investigations into the incident reveal that the 21-foot Titan likely suffered a "catastrophic implosion" shortly after commencing its dive on June 18. Tragically, all five individuals aboard the submersible lost their lives. Among the victims were OceanGate CEO Stockton Rush, who piloted the Titan, French Titanic expert Paul-Henri Nargeolet, British billionaire Hamish Harding, prominent Pakistani businessman Shahzada Dawood, and his son Sulaiman Dawood, aged 19.

In recent days, revelations have surfaced about safety concerns seemingly overlooked by Rush, who charged wealthy tourists $250,000 for deep-sea trips to witness the iconic shipwreck.

Also read | Does viral video show Titan submersible before it imploded? Here's the truth

Adding to the gravity of the situation, the US Coast Guard confirmed the discovery of "presumed human remains" among the submersible debris. Both US and Canadian authorities are actively investigating this devastating tragedy, seeking to uncover the full extent of the incident and its underlying causes.

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"It will be great to live in this city," said Salguero Solis Jonathan Esau, a young vlogger from El Salvador. He is one of a group of "Generation Z" from Russia, Equatorial Guinea, Turkmenistan, El Salvador, and Bangladesh, who visited an exhibition hall showcasing intangible cultural heritage in Yangzhou City, east China's Jiangsu Province on Wednesday.

From Yangzhou paper cutting and Yangzhou Lacquerware to woodblock printing technique, a wide range of Yangzhou intangible cultural heritage projects were on display, leaving a strong impression on the youths.

Young vloggers were invited to experience simple techniques of woodblock printing with the guidance of Zhu Xu, an inheritor of the traditional technique and grandson of master Chen Yishi.

"Look at my artwork! Isn't it beautiful?" said Nurberdiyev Eziz from Turkmenistan, raising his work after experiencing the intangible cultural heritage. "China's traditional culture is very impressive. In Yangzhou dialect I just learnt, it's 'gua gua jiao (pretty good)'," said Hasan Mahady from Bangladesh. "I'm planning to sell my first woodblock print for 3,000 yuan (about 413.6 U.S. dollars)," he joked.

The art of woodblock printing in Yangzhou dates back to the Tang Dynasty (618-907) and experienced unprecedented development during the Qing Dynasty (1644-1911). More than 3,000 volumes of books, including the Complete Tang Poems, were produced with the woodblock printing technique during the reign of Emperor Kangxi (1661-1722).

In October 2009, the traditional Chinese engraved block printing technique was inscribed on the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO.

With a history of over 2,500 years, Yangzhou is honored as a "National Civilized Model City", and won the United Nations Habitat Scroll of Honor Award in 2006.
Open Society Foundations, led by billionaire philanthropist George Soros, is undergoing a major transformation with significant job cuts. The announcement comes just a month after George Soros passed the reins to his son, Alexander Soros. In a joint statement with Mark Malloch-Brown, the foundation's president, Alexander Soros explained that the organization would be implementing a new operating model to address current challenges and build upon past achievements. George Soros is seen with his son Alexander.(Reuters)

According to a spokesperson for Open Society Foundations, the new vision necessitated difficult decisions, resulting in a global reduction of staff by at least 40%. Currently employing around 800 people worldwide, the organization aims to become a more agile entity capable of tackling emerging issues.

In June, George Soros appointed his son Alexander, known as Alex, as the organization's new chair. In a candid interview with the Wall Street Journal, Alexander disclosed that he and his father held similar perspectives, yet he characterized himself as more politically inclined. Notably, he hinted at a heightened emphasis on domestic politics within the United States under his leadership.

Since assuming his new role, Alexander Soros has been active in engaging with leaders and officials. Reports indicate that he recently held meetings with prominent figures such as Brazil's President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva and Canada's Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. These discussions signal a shift towards increased involvement in global politics under the younger Soros's leadership.

George Soros, estimated by Forbes to possess a net worth of $6.7 billion, has been a major contributor to his foundation, having donated a staggering $32 billion since 1984. Open Society Foundations is renowned as the world's largest private funder of independent groups dedicated to promoting justice, democratic governance, and human rights.

The transformation within Open Society Foundations, spearheaded by Alexander Soros, marks a significant turning point for the organization. As it redefines its priorities and confronts pressing challenges, the impact of these changes on the global stage remains to be seen.
Israel carried out airstrikes on areas near the central Syrian city of Homs early Sunday causing material damage but no casualties, the Syrian military said in a statement. Smoke rises after an Israeli air strike in Syria.(AFP File Photo)

A Syrian anti-aircraft missile exploded over Israeli territory, the Israeli military said, prompting another round of strikes.

Syrian state media quoted an unnamed military official as saying the air defenses shot down some of the missiles fired by Israeli warplanes flying over neighboring Lebanon.

Israeli authorities did not comment on the airstrike on Homs. But the military said one of the Syrian air defense missiles exploded over Israeli territory without causing any damage. Israeli police said the rocket's remains landed in the southern Israeli city of Rahat.

In response to the rocket, Israeli jets struck the air defense battery from where the anti-aircraft rocket was launched. The military said it also struck other targets, without elaborating.

Israel, which has vowed to stop Iranian entrenchment next door, has carried out hundreds of strikes on targets in government-controlled parts of neighboring Syria in recent years, but it rarely acknowledges them.

The last suspected Israeli airstrike on Syria was on June 14, near the capital Damascus that left one soldier wounded.

Israel has also targeted the international airports in Damascus and the northern Syrian city of Aleppo several times over the past few years, often putting it out of commission.

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A new edition of Courtiers: The Hidden Power Behind the Crown by Valentine Low claims that Kate Middleton played a key role in the royal family's response to Meghan Markle's 2021 Oprah Interview. During the interview, Meghan and Prince Harry had made the stunning claim that there were "concerns and conversations in the royal family about how dark their son Archie's skin might be when he's born." Kate Middleton and Meghan Markle(left)(File)

As per a report by People, Kate pushed the "some recollections may vary line to be included in Buckingham Palaces official response to the interview.

Notably, the statement "issued by Buckingham Palace on behalf of Queen Elizabeth II" read: "The whole family is saddened to learn the full extent of how challenging the last few years have been for Harry and Meghan. The issues raised, particularly that of race, are concerning. While some recollections may vary, they are taken very seriously and will be addressed by the family privately. Harry, Meghan and Archie will always be much loved family members."

ALSO READ| Titan submersible mishap: Harvard professor explains how investigators might ascertain cause through recovered debris

According to the report by People, Low quotes a source to have claimed that the Palace's response initially had "a much milder version" of the "recollections" sentence.

"Kate Middleton and Prince William were both of one mind that we needed something that said that the institution did not accept a lot of what had been said," said the source.

Author Low quotes another source as claiming that Kate insisted on having the phrase in the palace's response.

It was Kate who clearly made the point, History will judge this statement and unless this phrase or a phrase like it is included, everything that they have said will be taken as true.'"

She[Kate] does not get as much credit as she should, because she is so subtle about it. She is playing the long game. She has always got her eye on, This is my life and my historic path and I am going to be Queen one day,'" claimed the source.
As per a new edition of Courtiers book by journalist Valentine Low, King Charles III forced Queen Elizabeth IIs most trusted assistant to move out of the royal estate after the death of his mother. King Charles III (AFP)

According to a report in Page Six, Low claims in her book that Queen Elizabeth IIs assistant Angela Kelly had expected to be allowed to stay in a cottage in Windsor Home Park after the monarch's death. But due to King Charles' instructions, she doesn't live there. This is in contrast to the common practice of gifting homes called grace-and-favour homes in the royal estate to longtime staff members.

Now 65-year-old Kelly started working for Queen Elizabeth as her dresser in 1994. Initially, she took care of the monarch's clothes, insignia and jeweller but overtime, she got more responsibilities.

During the late Queens last years, there was no one outside her immediate family who was closer to her than Angela Kelly, claims Low in her book.

Her official title was Personal Assistant, Adviser and Curator to Her Majesty the Queen  but she was also her confidante, her friend and the person who looked after her more than anyone else; as Kelly would tell friends, she was effectively the Queens carer.

ALSO READ| Kate Middleton helped finalise royal family's official response to Meghan Markle's 2021 Oprah Interview: Report

Though Kelly didn't get to live in the royal estate, King Charles bought for her a home in Yorkshire, England, which will be returned to the Crown upon her death.

Negotiations ensued in which it was suggested that the King would buy her a home near Sheffield, [England], to be near her grandchildren, writes Low.

Angela wasnt everybodys cup of tea, but nevertheless the King had no wish to see her homeless. I get the impression that the King just didnt want to be living next door to her, a source told Low.
Royal expert Angela Levin has shared her insights on Meghan Markle's and Prince Harry's separate paths after stepping back from royal duties. In an interview with GB News, Levin highlighted Meghan's upcoming project, a preview of Charles Dickens's book "Great Expectations," which she sees as a feminist take on a man's world. However, Levin expressed skepticism about the project's success, citing previous adaptations of the novel. Notably, Meghan is pursuing this endeavor while remaining in the United States. (FILES) Britain's Prince Harry and Meghan Markle speak during the 2021 Global Citizen Live festival at the Great Lawn, Central Park on September 25, 2021 in New York City. (AFP)

In contrast, Prince Harry appears to have different plans. According to Levin, he is considering a trip to Africa, a place he holds dear and considers his second home. During his potential visit, he aims to focus on topics such as people and wildlife, reflecting his passion for the continent. Levin described Prince Harry as feeling happy and content in Africa.

These insights shed light on the divergent paths the Duke and Duchess of Sussex have embarked on since their departure from the royal family. Meghan's focus on creative endeavors, specifically the adaptation of "Great Expectations," seems to align with her dedication to empowering women and exploring societal dynamics. Meanwhile, Prince Harry's affinity for Africa and his desire to advocate for its people and wildlife demonstrate his ongoing commitment to humanitarian and conservation causes.

As the couple continues to navigate their post-royal lives, their individual pursuits reflect their personal interests and aspirations. Meghan's work as a feminist and her stay in America indicate a desire to pursue projects that resonate with her values and allow her to make a meaningful impact. Prince Harry's affinity for Africa suggests his intention to leverage his platform and experiences to bring attention to important issues in the region.

While their paths may diverge for now, it remains to be seen how Meghan and Harry will collaborate on joint projects or align their individual efforts in the future. As they explore new avenues and endeavors, the world will eagerly follow their journey and see how they continue to make a difference in their respective spheres.
Meghan Markle, the Duchess of Sussex, seems unfazed by the criticism surrounding Spotify's departure from their partnership. Reports suggest that she is more focused on rebranding her image than addressing the negative comments. FILE - Meghan Markle, Duchess of Sussex, arrives at the Invictus Games venue in The Hague, Netherlands, Friday, April 15, 2022. Meghan will be in New York Tuesday, May 16, 2023, along with Black Voters Matter co-founder LaTosha Brown, to receive the Ms. Foundations Women of Vision Award, as the nations oldest womens foundation marks its 50th anniversary. (AP)

Insiders close to the situation, speaking to Radar Online, revealed that Meghan is not bothered by the accusations of being money-hungry or being labeled as "grifters." She and Prince Harry view these criticisms as mere jealousy and the actions of mean-spirited individuals trying to tarnish their reputation.

Spotify's recent announcement of parting ways with the Sussexes has raised eyebrows, but they maintain that it was a mutual decision. Despite this setback, Meghan remains committed to her endeavors.

Meanwhile, Prince Harry has a new project lined up in Africa, but surprisingly, Meghan won't be by his side for this one. The couple has decided to drop their "double act" strategy for incoming projects to avoid ridicule, according to Martin Robinson, the chief reporter for the Daily Mail.

It appears that Meghan Markle is more focused on rebuilding her public image rather than getting entangled in addressing every piece of criticism thrown her way. She's determined to move forward and make a positive impact with her initiatives.

The decision to part ways with Spotify may have taken some by surprise, but the couple maintains that it was a mutual agreement. This move could potentially give them more freedom to explore other opportunities and partnerships.

As they venture into new projects, Prince Harry and Meghan are ready to face whatever challenges come their way. They are no strangers to scrutiny, but they believe in their causes and remain undeterred by negative voices.

With the Duchess planning to rebrand her image and the Duke embarking on solo projects, it will be interesting to see how their journeys unfold. Despite the ongoing criticism and challenges, they are resolute in making a difference and contributing to causes they deeply care about.
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has experienced a significant financial boost, becoming a millionaire due to the success of his book aimed at bolstering his presidential aspirations. However, despite his newfound wealth, DeSantis still finds himself burdened with student loan debt. Florida Governor Ron Desantis addresses Iowa residents at Sun Valley Barn in Pella, Iowa,(REUTERS)

According to a financial disclosure form filed with the state of Florida, DeSantis's net worth soared to $1.17 million in 2022, a substantial increase from the $319,000 he reported in June of the previous year.

Last year, DeSantis derived income from two sources: his governor's salary of $141,400 and a hefty $1.25 million payment from HarperCollins Publishers. The latter was part of a reported $2 million advance for his memoir titled "The Courage to Be Free," released in February.

DeSantis's book quickly became a New York Times bestseller, selling nearly 170,000 print copies by mid-June, which is a remarkable achievement for a political candidate's autobiography.

The governor, who sold his family home upon assuming office, reported no real estate assets or investments. Instead, he opted to keep his funds in checking and savings accounts with USAA, a bank catering to military members and veterans, as well as a couple of retirement funds.

However, despite his financial success, DeSantis still carries a student loan debt of over $18,000 from his time at Yale University and Harvard Law School. Last year, he managed to pay off approximately $2,600 of the outstanding balance. It is worth noting that DeSantis has been critical of President Biden's promises to cancel the student debts of millions of Americans while emphasizing the importance of personal responsibility.

Also read | Donald Trump gets 29-point lead over Ron DeSantis among Republican primary voters in latest NBC poll

The Supreme Court recently dealt a blow to Biden's plan to eliminate hundreds of billions of dollars in federally held student loan debt, ruling it as an overreach of presidential authority.

As the political landscape continues to grapple with this issue, it remains to be seen how DeSantis's personal experience will shape his stance on student loan reform in the future.

Also read | Not done fighting yet, President Biden to announce new plan to protect student loan borrowers amid SC's ruling- report
Venezuelan's enthusiasm for beauty pageants is unparalleled, and Miss Venezuela - the crown jewel of them all - may be the only event able to unite the deeply divided country. Once a year, class, race and politics are put aside as the South American nation tunes in to see who will represent Venezuela on the global stage. Sofia Salomon gives an interview at a radio program in Caracas, Venezuela.(AP)

Behind the cheers and claps for the women vying for the coveted title is a deeply conservative society with little to no tolerance for any defiance of heteronormative standards. Sofia Salomon is ready to challenge that.

The influencer and Instagram model has applied to take part in this year's Miss Venezuela contest. If accepted, she will be the first transgender woman to participate.

I think it is a great platform to bring visibility to my community, echo the positive things, and show people the reality of transgender women, Salomon said.

With no end in sight for the protracted crisis that has pushed millions of Venezuelans into poverty and 7.3 million to migrate, LGBTQ rights are hardly a dinner table topic for families or a dominant campaign issue in the race to upend President Nicolas Maduro in 2024.

Sunday's planned Pride march in the capital, Caracas, may draw hundreds of people, but there is almost no acceptance of the LGBTQ community nationwide, unlike in some other Latin American nations with conservative, Roman Catholic-based values. And Venezuelans who often idolize the European lifestyle have largely resisted that continent's wide inclusion of the community and its rejection of homophobia and transphobia.

Venezuela's top court in May repealed a law that punished consensual same-sex conduct by military personnel, but has been holding off for seven years in deciding a case that aims to give same-sex couples the right to marry.

It has also not ruled in Tamara Adrian's case, which she filed with the court in 2004. The transgender woman wants to legally change her name and sex on her birth certificate and in public records. The government argues that the law already allows for that, but Adrian and the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights, which examines human rights violations in the hemisphere, disagree. She has requested hearings and filed over 30 briefs in her case with no response.

Nonetheless, Adrian became the country's first transgender lawmaker in 2015, representing a district in Caracas, and in June this year, she entered the opposition's presidential primary race, hoping to oust Maduro.

In order to see changes in social matters, the state must implement public policies, and in that sense there is undoubtedly a penetration of changes (in other Latin American countries) that you cannot see in Venezuela, Adrian said. There is often not even an awareness here that a certain phrase is racist or homophobic or transphobic or misogynistic.

Last year, Salomon finished in the top six of Miss International Queen, the world's largest beauty pageant for transgender women. During the event, she mentioned the law Adrian is fighting.

I would like that law changed so transgender women could be accepted with the name they feel more safe, she said.

A transgender woman was selected in February to participate in Puerto Rico Miss Universe - a first for the Caribbean island - bolstering Salomon's hopes for her entry in the Venezuela contest. She said her parents, siblings and boyfriend support her decision to apply, and the comments and emojis on her Instagram posts are overwhelmingly positive.

The Miss Venezuela organization did not respond to a request for comment from The Associated Press.

Miss Venezuela winners go on to compete in Miss Universe, and the global contest opened to transgender competitors in 2012. That decision prompted Osmel Sousa, then head of Miss Venezuela, to declare that the humble, Christian Venezuelan public will never accept that position.

Marcia Ochoa, an associate professor of feminist, critical race and ethnic studies at UC Santa Cruz, applauded Salomon's efforts.

She is doing something that makes a lot of sense for a Venezuelan person, Ochoa said, insisting that Venezuelan culture has space for an idiosyncratic gender identity: miss. You can see somebody and say whether or not they are in beauty pageants because they look like a beauty pageant contestant. You can say: es toda una miss.' The phrase encapsulates a truly Venezuelan compliment, that a perfectly put together woman is absolutely a Miss (Venezuela).

In 2018, Angela Ponce from Spain became the first transgender woman to participate in Miss Universe, and last year, a Thai business tycoon and transgender woman bought the Miss Universe Organisation - once partly owned by former U.S. President Donald Trump - for USD 20 million.

Miss Venezuela winners earn instant fame that can lead to positions of influence. The 1981 Miss Universe winner, Irene Saez, went on to become mayor of a municipality of Caracas, and she ran for president in 1998, losing to Hugo Chavez.

Caracas resident Josefina Mejia has watched Miss Venezuela for decades with family and friends. They pick favorites and have a friendly competition over whose pick will win. Mejia, 65, said she does not oppose Salomon's efforts but would rather see transgender women stay out of the contest.

This is a conservative society, and sometimes we judge people even though we shouldn't be judging, Mejia said. I would like a separate contest for that gender."

The activist-run Venezuelan Observatory of LGBTIQ Violence reported at least 97 cases of violence against members of the community nationwide in 2022, including 11 homicides. The figures are likely an undercount because so many cases are not reported. A formal complaint was filed with authorities in at least 10% of the cases.

Salomon, who is interested in a career in real estate, received a confirmation email that the Miss Venezuela organization had received her application but she still doesn't know if she has been accepted. She said she thinks her modeling and pageant experience gives her an advantage over other contestants.

I am of the opinion that experience is not improvised, Salomon said. That is why people trust that I will make history in the country.
Researchers at Stanford University recently conducted a study that has revealed a new category of depression, referred to as the "cognitive subtype." According to the study, approximately 27% of diagnosed individuals are affected by this unique form of depression, which exhibits characteristics closely resembling attention deficit disorders. Representative image.

The findings, published in the New York Post, also highlight that standard antidepressant medications are ineffective in treating this particular type of depression.

The study, based on a randomised clinical trial involving over 1,000 adults, aimed to balance serotonin levels in the brain, which are believed by many researchers to contribute to depression. However, the researchers discovered that only 38% of individuals diagnosed with the cognitive subtype experienced remission of symptoms, compared to nearly 48% of those without this subtype.

Lead author Leanne Williams emphasises the need to find new approaches to address the challenges faced by patients with this cognitive subtype of depression. The traditional trial-and-error process for treatment needs to be improved to ensure that more individuals can recover more effectively.

"One of the big challenges is to find a new way to address what is currently a trial-and-error process so that more people can get better sooner," Williams is quoted as saying by the Post.

The researchers consider this discovery to be the first instance of a "clinically actionable cognitive biotype of depression." Their findings suggest that cognitive dysfunction is not solely a result of depression but can also be a contributing factor to its development.

The identification of this cognitive subtype of depression presents a significant breakthrough in understanding and treating the complexities of depressive disorders. It highlights the limitations of targeting serotonin levels in the brain through traditional antidepressant medications for patients with cognitive dysfunction.

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR Kanishka Singharia Kanishka is a journalist at Hindustan Times news desk. When not in newsroom, you will find her on streets of Delhi exploring food cafes or capturing world through her lens. ...view detail
OceanGate CEO Stockton Rush reportedly acknowledged two years ago that the Titan submersibles design had"broken some rules." Stockton, along withBritish billionaire Hamish Harding, French diver Paul Henry Nargeolet, and Pakistani businessman Shahzada Dawood and his son, Suleman, died after the vessel was destroyed in a catastrophic implosion. Stockton Rush speaks in front of a projected image of the wreckage of the ocean liner SS Andrea Doria during a presentation on their findings after an undersea exploration (AP Photo/Bill Sikes, File)(AP)

In a 2021 interview with Mexican YouTuber alanxelmundo, Stockton said he wished to be remembered as an innovator. "I think it was General MacArthur who said: 'You're remembered for the rules you break,'" Stockton said. He then said he acknowledges that he had broken some rules" with the Titan's manufacturing, however, he had confidence that the vessel was safe.

"I think I've broken them with logic and good engineering behind me. Carbon fiber and titanium? There's a rule you don't do that," he told alanxelmundo. "Well, I did."

The Titans hull was constructed with aerospace-grade carbon fibre, even though submersible hulls are typically made with solid metals like steel or titanium. Several emails and messages between experts and Stockton went viral after his death, revealing that he dismissed repeated warnings that the submersible was not safe.

"It's picking the rules that you break that are the ones that will add value to others and add value to society," Stockton said. "And that really, to me, is about innovation."

Of his journey into the ocean, Stockton said, Because this is where we're going to find strange new lifeforms, and the future of mankind is underwater. It's not on Mars, we're not going to have a base on Mars or the moon.

It recently emerged that Stocktontold a friend in 2019 that he would shut down his company, it has been revealed. Stockton emailed a friend named Karl Stanley, who is an expert in submersibles. Karl had earlier expressed concerns over the safety of the Titan submersible after hearing cracking noises while on a dive in the Bahamas.

Following the tragedy, investigators from the US Coast Guard, the US National Transportation Safety Board, the Transportation Safety Board of Canada, the French marine casualties investigation board and the United Kingdom Marine Accident Investigation Branch have been working closely on the probe.
Vietnam welcomes nearly 5.6 million international visitors in the first half of this year. (Photo: VNA)

Regarding the level of recovery compared to before the pandemic, five markets saw growth including Cambodia (338%), India (236%), Laos (117%), Thailand (108.4%), and Singapore (107.4%).

Two markets with the growth close to their 2019 levels were the US (95%) and Australia (92%). In addition, the number of visitors to Vietnam from the Republic of Korea (RoK), the UK, Germany, and France all increased positively. However, the Chinese market only recovered 22.4% because China reopened group tours to Vietnam from March 15 this year.

The RoK remained the largest market of the Vietnamese tourism in the first half of 2023 with 1.6 million tourist arrivals, accounting for 28% of total international visitors to Vietnam. It was followed by China and the US.

Among the top ten markets of Vietnam tourism, four were in Northeast Asia - the RoK, China, Taiwan (China) and Japan, and three in Southeast Asia - Thailand, Malaysia, and Cambodia. Australia and India ranked ninth and tenth.

The UK, France, and Germany were the three biggest markets for Vietnam tourism in Europe. In addition, Vietnam attracted 62,000 Russian tourists in the reviewed period.

In 2023, Vietnam aims to welcome 110 million tourists including 8 million international visitors. The country expects to earn about 650 trillion VND (27.56 billion USD) from tourism./.
AMERICANS IN AREAS hit hard by deindustrialisation feel abandoned by the Democratic Party. This is a phenomenon outlined by Mike Lux, a Democratic strategist, in a recent study of American factory towns. It is also one that wea US Representative from Silicon Valley and a state senator from eastern Iowarecognise. To regain trust, our party must make sure that Americans across the country understand how new legislation will help them through investments in technology and manufacturing. In addition, we should own up to, and reverse, the disastrous trade and economic policies (adopted by both parties) that have devastated Americas factory towns. PREMIUM Democrats need to promote what weve delivered in recent years to win back sceptical voters.(Bloomberg)

In Iowa, as in many other states, a clear divide has grown between voters. Democrats over-perform in large and growing urban and suburban communities and Republicans succeed in small towns and rural areas. The destruction of Iowas once-vibrant manufacturing sector over the past 30 years has had catastrophic consequences and accelerated this divide.

Residents of many small cities have seen their jobs shipped abroad and their communities have suffered as a result. There is no better example than Newton in Jasper County, Iowa. Formerly known as the Washing Machine Capital of the World, Newton saw Maytag, a major manufacturer, leave in the early 2000s. Jasper County was once a Democratic-leaning place, but Donald Trump carried it with 56% of the vote in 2016 and 60% in 2020. Reinvigorating American factory towns with new, well-paid manufacturing and tech jobs is critical if we are to support such communities and spread wealth. It is only through such gains that Democrats can defeat Donald Trumps populist narrative.

To be sure, the trade and economic policies of recent decades are not the only factors that have contributed to our countrys manufacturing decline. They are also not the only factors explaining the success of conservative politics in these communities, especially considering Republicans have not implemented effective solutions to fix these problems. But Republican rhetoric about supporting American factory towns has resonated with the people who call these communities home. Democrats have been painted as out of touch and recent polling shows that only 23% of rural voters say that the Democratic Party cares more about my community than the Republican Party. To turn things around, we must show people that we care.

Thats why Democrats need to promote what weve delivered in recent years to win back sceptical voters. That starts with the American Rescue Plan, a stimulus package signed into law in March 2021, which is funding the deployment of high-speed broadband internet to rural communities, and the Bipartisan Infrastructure Act, signed into law in November, which is helping to repair roads and bridges. Those in Iowa are among the countrys least structurally sound.

In July, we led the passage of the CHIPS and Science Act. It is the start of a new economic vision for the future that supports American workers by making sure advanced manufacturing and production are done here at home, not offshore. Its aim is not to restrict international trade, but to rebalance production and reduce the existing trade deficit. We are already seeing the results with Intels new semiconductor factories in Ohio. They are a $20bn investment and are expected to create at least 3,000 new company jobs in the state and 7,000 construction jobs. Most of these jobs do not require college degrees yet they pay well.

By contrast, Republicans continue to implement and support policies that harm workers in Iowa by eroding unemployment insurance and workers compensation programmes. The partys demagogues also stir racial resentment to divide working-class communities. They oppose legislation like the PRO Act, introduced last year, which would protect and expand workers rights. Their priorities are more tax cuts for the ultrarich and big corporations. We saw this clearly with the Trump tax cuts of 2017 and a recent, similar tax giveaway passed by Republicans in Iowas state legislature.

As our country enters a new era of industrial policy, this is the moment to make sure our economy works for every community. Democrats must embrace inclusive populism, as Leah Hunt-Hendrix, an activist and writer, laid out in a recent opinion article in Politico. This requires speaking honestly to voters about difficult issues like immigration and race. We should acknowledge that certain communities have been hit harder by deindustrialisation than others. But we can bring people together through a shared goal: creating well-paying jobs and making things in America again. Its important not to allow ourselves to be divided.

Our economic vision includes fair pay and benefits for working-class families. It transcends geography, party and race, and can help stitch this country back together. Theres no time to waste. With the midterms approaching, Democrats must demonstrate that we are the party that is taking action to revitalise Americas factory towns.

Ro Khanna, a Democrat, is the US representative from Californias 17th congressional district. Zach Wahls, a Democrat, is the Iowa state Senate Minority Leader.

 2023, The Economist Newspaper Limited. All rights reserved. From The Economist, published under licence. The original content can be found on www.economist.com
During a recent visit to a London museum, Prince William's wife Kate Middleton was seen chatting to a group of school students about her children. As the Princess of Wales attended the opening of the refurbished Young V&A Museum in South London as patron of its parent institution, she was introduced to groups of children who engaged in conversation with the royal. Britain's Catherine, Princess of Wales watches as Britain's Princess Charlotte of Wales tries her hand at archery.(AFP)

A clip shared on social media showed the princess telling students, I'm Charlotte's mommy- a cute reference to her daughter.

"She's going into Year Four [equivalent to third grade] next year," Kate said of her daughter, before being asked by a student if she was "Charlotte's mommy?"

"I'm Charlotte's mommy!" Kate said, continuing, And George is in Year Five and Louis is in Reception. Kate Middleton then went on to discuss her children's love of storytelling.

They tell me stories all the time. Does anyone else have a story?, she asked.

In another humorous interaction with a student, Kate Middleton was asked how old she was. The princess said in a whisper, joking, I'm 41. But don't tell anyone!

During the visit, she paid tribute to her position as the institution's patron. In 2021, Kate Middleton started The Royal Foundation Centre for Early Childhood as well. This year, the senior royal launched an awareness campaign titled "Shaping Us."

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Royal expert Angela Levin weighed in on what she thinks about Meghan Markle reportedly working on a "preview" of Great Expectations by Charles Dickens. The Duchess of Sussex has reportedly decided to work on her new Netflix project while her husband Prince Harry wants to take up a slightly different route. Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, Duke and Duchess of Sussex are seen.(AP)

Royal expert Angela Levin, while speaking about the pair's conflicting ideas for upcoming projects, told GB News, "It's interesting that Meghan is working on doing a preview really of [Charles] Dickens's book Great Expectations and she's doing it as a feminist living in a man's world. So, it's before she's left at the altar, and you think, it's not going to work before it's even got anywhere because it's going to be about Meghan's life and men in a very difficult community and it's not fair and it's not right."

You know, everything on Great Expectations since the first film in 1946 has proven to be absolutely hopeless. So she's going to do that, she's staying in America, she said.

Talking about Prince Harry, the royal commentator said that he "wants to go to Africa and talk about the people and the animals and all that, which he loves - he's called it his second home. He feels very happy in that."

The could continue to have a deal with the streaming service, despite losing their contract with Spotify last month. Prince Harry and Meghan Markle- who signed with Spotify in 2020- parted ways with the company last month, with both issuing a statement to announce the same.

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Meghan Markle "never really wanted to be accepted by the Royal Family", a royal expert claimed. The Duchess of Sussex married Prince Harry in 2018 and said in the couple's Netflix docuseries that there was no formal introduction of instruction into royal life or on protocols that are to be followed. But if "she had been more willing to adapt herself to place life" things could have been different, royal correspondent Valentine Low said. Meghan Markle at the funeral of Queen Elizabeth II.

Some of those who worked with Meghan argue that she never really wanted to be accepted by the royal family. That might be true. But if the institution had tried harder, and if she had been more willing to adapt herself to palace life, she could have been one of the royal familys greatest assets, the expert added.

Meghan Markle admitted in the docuseries that she "needed to learn a lot" when she began dating Prince Harry.

I never saw pictures or videos of a walkabout. Like, whats a walkabout?, she said.

The Duchess also recalled the first time she met the late Queen Elizabeth II when her husband asked her if she knew how to curtsy. Prince Harry said, "How do you explain that to people? How do you explain that you bow to your grandmother? And that you would need to curtsy, especially to an American. Thats weird."

The couple stepped down from their royal roles and moved to the United States- where they now live- in March 2020. Since then, their relationship with the royal family remains strained following claims made by the Duke and Duchess of Sussex in a controversial interview with Oprah Winfrey and the more recent publication of Prince Harry's memoir 'Spare'.

Most recently Prince Harry attended King Charles' coronation in the UK alone while Meghan remained in the US with the couple's children.

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Prince William and Kate Middleton are in the process of making big decisions about their children's schooling. Prince George currently attends Lambrook School with his siblings Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis. As per the family tradition, younger royal are sent to boarding school for their secondary education. A royal expert said that this would be a "sad" outcome. Britain's Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge, Britain's Prince George of Cambridge, Britain's Prince William, Duke of Cambridge and Britain's Princess Charlotte of Cambridge are seen.(AFP)

Both Prince William and Kate Middleton attended boarding schools, Eton and Marlborough College respectively. King Charles, Prince Andrew and Prince Edward attending Gordonstoun in Scotland. The couple were recently spotting taking Prince George on a tour of Eton, suggesting that he may follow in his father's footsteps.

Former BBC royal correspondent Jennie Bond said, "The choice of school for the children will tell us a lot about William and Catherine. So far, theyve been such a hands-on parents and, personally I think it would be sad to see them send their children away to boarding school. I would applaud a decision to keep them as day pupils at schools nearby their home. But I think both William and Catherine were happy at boarding school. I suppose its what they know and perhaps they will want to pass this experience on to their children. I imagine it will be all or nothing - in other words, all three will go away to school, or none of them.

I will be cheering loudly if they decide to keep their children close and nurture them through their adolescence as they have nurtured them through the young years," the expert added.

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Queen Elizabeth II had some things to say about Frogmore Cottage before Prince Harry and Meghan Markle visited the place which became their UK residence. Then, the late monarch warned her grandson saying that the resident was a bit of a shell. In his memoir, Prince Harry said that Kensington Palaces Nottingham Cottage was charming but too small for them, two rambunctious dogs, and a Prince Archie. Queen Elizabeth.(File)

Then, Prince Harry went to Queen Elizabeth about his housing situation. The latter gave it a think before offering up Frogmore Cottage which the Duke of Sussex thought was Frogmore House

No, no  Frogmore Cottage. Near Frogmore House, the queen told him, adding, Sort of hidden. Tucked away. Calling it a lovely place, historic, part of the Crown Estate, and very sweet, Prince Harry recalled, that the queen gave a word of caution to the couple.

She warned: Its a bit of a building site. Bit of a shell. But go and have a look and do tell me if it works," Prince Harry wrote. The couple visited the property on the same day and Harry recalled, Granny was right.

The house spoke to us both. Charming, full of potential. Hard by the Royal Burial Ground, but so what? Didnt bother me or Meg. We wouldnt disturb the dead if theyd promise not to disturb us," he explained.

Frogmore Cottage would be a dream come true, Harry recalled telling Queen Elizabeth over the phone before thanking her profusely, he said.

With the queens permission, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle began sitting down with builders, planning the minimum renovations, to make the place habitable  piping, heating, water", he wrote in his memoir.

This comes as Prince Harry and Meghan officially vacated Frogmore Cottage, a Buckingham Palace spokesperson. The couple paid for the expenditure incurred by the Sovereign Grant in relation to the renovation of Frogmore Cottage, thus leaving the Crown with a greatly enhanced asset," The Telegraph reported.

However, it remains unclear who will live at the Frogmore Cottage now with some reports claiming that King Charles had offered the residence to his brother Prince Andrew.

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In a virtual gathering that aimed to honor their beloved late mother's philanthropic endeavors, Prince Harry and Prince William recently came together for the Diana Award ceremony. However, due to the circumstances, the brothers did not have an opportunity to meet face-to-face. Britain's Prince William and Britain's Prince Harry.(AP)

The event commenced with a prerecorded message from Prince William, who extended his congratulations to the winners and emphasized the remarkable ability of young people to instigate meaningful change. He underscored the importance of organizations like The Diana Award, echoing his mother's belief in investing in the younger generation and equipping them with the tools and opportunities to make a difference.

Prince Harry, on the other hand, played an active role in the ceremony by interviewing a recipient of the 2021 Diana and Legacy Award and introducing some of the winners. He reflected on the profound belief that his mother held in the transformative power of young people, emphasizing their capacity to challenge societal norms and foster inclusivity and compassion. Harry expressed his pride in continuing Diana's legacy and acknowledged her lasting inspiration in navigating the complexities of the present world.

Prior to this event, Harry participated alongside Diana Award CEO Tessy Ojo in a meeting with young individuals in Los Angeles. This marked the first time the charity's Conversation for Change meeting had taken place outside the U.K., according to People magazine.

The two brothers last encountered each other in person at the coronation of King Charles III. While Harry attended alone, Meghan Markle remained in California with their children, Archie and Lilibet. Notably, there was no interaction between Harry and William during the coronation, and the Duke of Sussex promptly returned to California, choosing to forgo post-coronation festivities, including the concert at Windsor Castle.

They were brought together amidst sorrow last year when their grandmother, Queen Elizabeth II, passed away. During that time, Harry and William, alongside Markle and Kate Middleton, appeared united as a foursome at Windsor Castle, providing solace to those mourning the loss.

Despite their once close bond, the relationship between the brothers has been strained for some time. Harry has been candid about this in his memoir, "Spare," and in the Netflix docuseries he created with Markle, "Harry & Meghan." Harry even alleged that William had once grabbed and knocked him down during an argument, with William allegedly using derogatory terms to describe Markle soon after their marriage.

In a January interview with Anderson Cooper, Harry admitted that he hadn't spoken to either William or his father in quite some time. Nevertheless, he expressed hope for finding peace in their relationships in the future.

The image of the two young princes walking side by side behind Diana's coffin in 1997, after her tragic car accident when they were just 15 and 12 years old, is etched in the collective memory. The recent participation of Harry and William in speaking about their late mother's legacy evokes poignant emotions tied to that heartbreaking period.

According to Diana Award CEO Tessy Ojo, both Harry and William remain dedicated to supporting the Diana Award and following in their mother's footsteps. Ojo expressed gratitude for their ongoing involvement and emphasized their understanding of the passion young people possess for effecting social change.

Also read | Royal Family: Prince William's whopping salary runs into millions of dollars
After the US Supreme Court on Friday struck down the Biden administrations plan to cancel debt for millions of Americans, The New York Times faced backlash for its column mentioning death as one of the ways to wipe out one's student loan. The Times later changed the subheading to Debt wont carry on.(REUTERS)

In a financial advice column titled Ways you can still cancel your federal student loan debt, writer Ron Lieber listed plenty of ways to get your student debt wiped away.

The suggestions included making an income-driven repayment, appealing for public service loan forgiveness, and bankruptcy and disability discharges.

Why was the article roasted?

Under a subheading titled Death, Lieber wrote, If youre a young adult wondering about the federal PLUS loans your relatives took out to pay for your education, you may be wondering whether the debt dies with the person or people who take it on.

It does.

The federal government will not make a claim on their estate, and you will not inherit the balance.

A screenshot of the article was shared on Twitter.

Reacting to the article, former Secretary of Labor Robert Reich wrote, Weve reached the point where The New York Times is suggesting death as a viable solution to crushing student debt.

The newspaper later changed the subheading to Debt wont carry on.

Will pursue another plan: Biden

President Joe Biden said he will try a new legal avenue to provide student-loan borrowers with relief after the Supreme Court's Friday ruling, undoing one of his signature initiatives, reported Bloomberg.

The country's department of education has now initiated a new regulatory process that hopes to provide relief under the Higher Education Act and created a 12-month on-ramp repayment program designed to help borrowers reduce the threat of default. But these debt forgiveness regulations, which will take months to finalize, are certain to face legal challenges similar to the one that felled Bidens initial attempt.
The cause of implosion of Titan submersible which claimed five lives, is yet to be ascertained officially. However, statements by Ed Cassano, CEO of Pelagic Research Services which led Titan's search-and-rescue operation, might shed light on an important possible reason of the mishap. The Titan submersible, operated by OceanGate Expeditions(via REUTERS/file)

The submersible was pushed beyond its depth rate, Cassano said.

Notably, Cassano's company deployed its remotely operated vehicle, the Odysseus 6K, which reached the Titanic wreckage roughly 12,500 feet underwater within 90 minutes.

Shortly after arriving on the seafloor, we discovered the debris of the Titan submersible, said Cassano.

By 12 oclock, a rescue turned into a recovery, he added.

In a press conference on Friday, Cassano recounted the recovery operation and got emotional, seemingly holding back tears. He requested people to respect the deceased and highlighted the sentiments faced by those involved in the recovery of Titan debris.

I have to apologize, we are still demobilizing, theres a lot of emotions, people are tired, said Cassano.

ALSO READ| Kate Middleton helped finalise royal family's official response to Meghan Markle's 2021 Oprah Interview: Report

British billionaire businessman Hamish Harding, British father and son Shahzada and Suleman Dawood who had roots in Pakistan as one of its richest families, OceanGate CEO Stockton Rush and former French navy diver Paul-Henry Nargeolet were the five persons who perished in the Titan submersible tragedy. The sub had gone missing within two hours of starting its trip to explore the wreckage of famous "Titanic" ship which sank in 1912.

The US Coast Guard have recovered presumed human remains from the Titan wreckage. United States medical professionals will conduct a formal analysis of the presumed human remains.

The entire incident grabbed eyeballs across the world and has raised "serious questions" over the safety of similar adventure missions including private space trips.

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US President Joe Biden will host Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson next week to talk about transatlantic security cooperation and the war in Ukraine, the White House said Saturday. US President Joe Biden(File)

The two leaders "will review our growing security cooperation and reaffirm their view that Sweden should join NATO as soon as possible," the White House said in a statement about the Wednesday meeting.

Sweden asked to join NATO in May 2022, three months after Russia invaded Ukraine, but its membership bid, which must be ratified by all 31 member states, has been blocked by Turkey and Hungary.

Western officials had hoped to formally welcome Sweden into the bloc by the time a NATO summit is held in Lithuania on July 11-12.

But earlier this week, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan denounced Sweden for allowing a protest during which a man burned pages from the Koran, further clouding the Nordic nation's chances of quickly joining the military alliance.

"I am delighted that President Biden is inviting us to a meeting next week, before the NATO summit in Vilnius the following week," Kristersson said in a statement. "The focus of the visit will be on Sweden's NATO accession."

The White House said Biden and Kristersson will also "discuss our shared commitment to supporting Ukraine in the face of Russia's brutal war of aggression."

They will additionally talk about transatlantic coordination on China, climate change and emerging technologies.

Western officials had hoped Erdogan would soften his position on Sweden's bid to join NATO after he secured a hard-fought reelection in May.

Western allies and Stockholm have insisted that Sweden has met the terms of a deal agreed with Ankara last year.

That accord includes a commitment to crack down on opposition Kurdish movements, such as the Kurdistan Workers' Party PKK, blacklisted by Ankara which considers them "terrorist" groups.

Top diplomats from Turkey and Sweden will meet on Thursday, the day after Kristersson's White House visit, at NATO headquarters in Brussels for talks on Stockholm's bid to join the alliance.

Turkey dropped objections to Sweden's Nordic neighbor Finland joining earlier in the year and Helsinki became a NATO member in April.

Meanwhile, Hungary's parliament had been expected to vote on Sweden's bid by the end of its "extraordinary summer session" on July 7, but did not list it as an order of business for the session.
VANCOUVER, Canada, July 2. Armenia continues to make warmongering statements, disregarding Azerbaijans sovereignty and territorial integrity, Azerbaijani MP Tural Ganjaliyev said, while speaking at the session of the 2nd Committee of the OSCE Parliament Assembly, Trend reports.

The usage of fictitious geographical locations in Azerbaijan, which hold no international or domestic legal standing, serves as evidence that Armenia's declarations at the highest level regarding respect for Azerbaijan's territorial integrity are contradicted by Armenia's actions, including those of its parliamentary delegation to the OSCE PA, Ganjaliyev said in response to the representative of Armenian delegation.

Armenia`s support of Azerbaijan`s territorial integrity could have been welcomed if it wouldn`t be in contrary to real actions of this country. Actions undertaken by Armenia aims at undermining the process of post-conflict normalization between Armenia and Azerbaijan and continue illegal military presence in the sovereign territories of Azerbaijan, he added.

The MP also pointed out that Azerbaijan has never created impediments for the movement on the Lachin road [connecting Azerbaijans Karabakh and Armenia] and the statements of the Armenian side about the so-called "blockade or ethnic cleansing" are nothing, but false propaganda.

Azerbaijan remains committed to the normalization agenda on the basis mutual recognition of sovereignty and territorial integrity. At the same time, Azerbaijan will continue defending its sovereignty and territorial integrity, he concluded.
PRESIDENT JOE BIDEN is literally living history. With every passing day he sets a new record for oldest presidentthe sole octogenarian ever to occupy the Oval Office. When he began his campaign to unseat Donald Trump, Mr Biden intimated that he would not seek a second term, presenting himself as an elder statesman who would calm the nations turbulent politics before a younger generation took over. And yet he is now giving every sign that he intends to stay in office for six more years, by seeking re-election in 2024. PREMIUM The president stammers through his speeches, sequesters himself from the press and recently had a minor health scare in the form of a cancerous skin lesion. So why doesnt Joe want to go?

It is not as though his age doesnt show. The president stammers through his speeches, sequesters himself from the press and recently had a minor health scare in the form of a cancerous skin lesion. So why doesnt Joe want to go? The proximate cause was the midterm elections, which did not go nearly as badly for Democrats as Mr Bidens lacklustre approval ratings suggested they might. That halted the sense, once well-established among Democrats, that he was leading the party to disaster and the likely re-election of Mr Trump in 2024. Most insurrectionist chatter of pushing the president out before he wanted to go was quelled. The exception is the declared challenge from Marianne Williamson, a quackish self-help guru who thinks the Avatar movies hold the secret to Middle East peace. The unexpectedly light rebuke by voterswho only narrowly awarded Republicans the House of Representatives and even granted Democrats an extra seat in the Senategave the administration scope to crow about its accomplishments. The president had steered the country out of the pandemic, passed the largest climate-change-mitigation bill in history, repaired international alliances and led the West in supporting Ukraine. A younger president with a similar record would have an unquestioned right to seek re-election. But the other impulse that might keep the Democratic ticket unchanged is an extreme kind of risk aversion. The party is terrified of Mr Trumps return to the White House and the damage that would do. Mr Biden owes his current position to a similarly pragmatic calculation: when the party risked nominating the ultra-progressive Bernie Sanders in 2020, support consolidated around Mr Biden as the only viable option for winning. This time, too, many Democrats fear that an open primary could be disastrous. Kamala Harris, the vice-president, has developed a reputation for bungling issues assigned to her, like deterring migration at the southern border. Her approval rating among the public is even lower than the presidents. Her gaffes rival her bosss, but without the available excuse of old age. Yet plenty of donors and perhaps enough voters would find the prospect of passing over the countrys first female vice-president off-putting. The memory of Hillary Clintons loss still haunts the party. Despite her weaknesses, hardly anyone in Washington expects Mr Biden to choose a different running mate. The vice-presidential survival sweepstakes are a quadrennial parlour game, but the last president to actually go through with it was Franklin Roosevelt in 1944.

Plan B(The Economist)

Mr Biden himself sees it as his mission to defeat Trumpism. Donald Trump and the MAGA Republicans represent an extremism that threatens the foundations of our republic, he said in a severe speech delivered in Philadelphia last year. In 2020 Mr Biden promised to beat Mr Trump like a drum; he thinks he can deliver another thumping in 2024.

But although Mr Bidens credentials as a Trump-beater are impeccable, the calculations in a match against a Republican alternative are less compelling. The presidents approval ratings remain underwhelming, barely better than Mr Trumps at this point in his presidency. Recent polling from YouGov shows that only 44% of Democrats are keen for Mr Biden to run again. (Other polls show even less enthusiasm.) Most are unsure who they would rather have to replace him, though. Only 2% say they would like to see Ms Harris at the top of the ticket. Make way while the sun shines Democrats are probably right to think that widespread antipathy towards Mr Trump, who has alienated much of the donor class of his own party, would paper over some of Mr Bidens vulnerabilities. But the contrast with Ron DeSantis, the 44-year-old Republican governor of Florida who is closer in age to some of the presidents grandchildren, would be particularly extreme. And highly visible: unlike the campaign of 2020, which was largely conducted in lockdown, the coming race will require strenuous campaigning. Democrats are probably right to think that widespread antipathy towards Mr Trump, who has alienated much of the donor class of his own party, would paper over some of Mr Bidens vulnerabilities. But the contrast with Ron DeSantis, the 44-year-old Republican governor of Florida who is closer in age to some of the presidents grandchildren, would be particularly extreme. And highly visible: unlike the campaign of 2020, which was largely conducted in lockdown, the coming race will require strenuous campaigning. There is precedent for a president reneging on a re-election pledge, but it is not a happy one. In 1968, after a disappointing show in the New Hampshire primaries, Lyndon Johnson dropped his campaign for another term just eight months before the presidential electionwhich his party subsequently lost to Richard Nixon. Still, an open primary might not be as catastrophic as some Democrats fear. When evaluating a partys presidential bench, conventional wisdom tends to focus on those who campaigned in the previous election. Most of those also-ran Democratssuch as Pete Buttigieg, now transportation secretary, and Elizabeth Warren, a Massachusetts senatordo not inspire much confidence as contenders. Ms Harriss standing is so dismal that she would not freeze the field as Mrs Clinton did in 2016. That leaves room for alternatives. As Democrats have moved away from the progressive stances that were voguish in 2020 and back towards the centre, a crop of state governors, who tend to be more pragmatic than senators, appear more compelling. Rather than opting for progressives like Gavin Newsom in California or J.B. Pritzker in Illinoisboth of whom have been unsubtly signalling that they are keen to run for presidentDemocrats could plump for Gretchen Whitmer, who just won handy re-election in an important Midwestern swing state, Michigan. The newly elected governors of Pennsylvania and Maryland, Josh Shapiro and Wes Moore, are both gifted speakers. Jared Polis, the freethinking governor of Colorado, is an effective tactician. Then there are governors, like Andy Beshear in Kentucky and John Bel Edwards in Louisiana, who have proved capable of winning in red states. And Gina Raimondo, who was governor of Rhode Island before becoming Mr Bidens secretary of commerce, is arguably the most effective member of the current administration. If a senator must be chosen, there are mild-mannered newcomers who might suit a general election better than a progressive bomb-thrower. Raphael Warnock is an African-American preacher who won the crucial swing state of Georgia twice in two years. Mark Kelly has done the same in Arizonaand would have the distinction of being the first astronaut president that schoolchildren dream of. All may be capable, but none will challenge the president unless he excuses himself. Almost every modern president who has garnered a serious primary challenger as an incumbentJohnson, Jimmy Carter, George Bush seniorhas gone on to lose. And no Democrat wishes to be blamed for ensuring their partys loss. Mr Biden obsessively tries to study the examples of presidents past, and convenes councils of historians at the White House. He may do well to look back beyond the modern era, to the time when George Washington gave up power so that the business of democracy could properly flourish. After accomplishing the Herculean task of defeating Mr Trump, Mr Biden has already scored unexpected success. That is all a fitting coda; losing to a sprightlier Republican would be an undignified end for Americas eldest statesman. Stay on top of American politics with Checks and Balance, our weekly subscriber-only newsletter, which examines the state of American democracy and the issues that matter to voters. You can also read other articles about the elections of 2024 and follow along as we track shifts in Joe Bidens approval rating.  2023, The Economist Newspaper Limited. All rights reserved. From The Economist, published under licence. The original content can be found on www.economist.com

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An anti-feminist YouTuber has been dubbed the female Andrew Tate after she said she believes women should not have the right to vote, and divorce should be illegal. 26-year-old Hannah Pearl Davis frequently takes to social media to express her conservative views, and has garnered over 1.5 million followers. Among other controversial views, Hannah Pearl Davis believes women should not have the right to vote (@pearlythingz/Twitter)

Hannahs popularity increased after Andrew Tate was arrested in Romania on sex trafficking charges in December. Shortly before being taken into custody, Andrew appeared as a guest on Hannahs channel. Her YouTube following has increased from 960,000 subscribers to 1.54 million after that, as per SocialBlade. She was banned on TikTok in August last year, where she had 930,000 followers.

Why do all of these big companies censor one side but they dont censor the other? she said in a video at the time. Men have issues, Im not saying they dont, but its not a fair conversation if only one side gets to speak. Weve heard about mens issues the last 20 years, but women dont listen to men. Feminists dont want to have the conversation because it makes them look bad. Anything that puts women in a bad light, its taken down, its censored.

Hannah was born to software entrepreneurs Dan and Jennifer Davis, and grew up in Chicago, Illinois. Her mother was notably once on the board of directors for UN Women USA, which is a charity supporting gender-equality programs of the United Nations. Hannah now lives in London. She joined YouTube in 2020 but started becoming popular only around May 2022.

Hannah previously told the news outlet Insider that she was influenced by videos of popular right-wing figures like The Daily Wire founder Ben Shapiro and economist Thomas Sowell during college.

Hannah Pearl Davis believes women should not have the right to vote

Among other controversial views, Hannah believes women should not have the right to vote. A lot of people think Im insane because I dont think women should vote, she said in a Twitter video on June 29. If anything this is probably my most extreme opinion. She explained that she came to this conclusion because she wanted to know why men were so angry about women.

When I started researching this stuff it was pretty easy to figure out why  90 percent of women have been on birth control, one out of three women has had an abortion, one out of three women has an STD, the average body count is over five, 95 per cent of women are not virgins on their wedding day  so I understand these complaints, Hannah said.

Hannah went on to say that the courts, the legal system, all of society is basically pandering and simping for women, and cited examples like payments for single mothers. If you pay women to be terrible, then youre probably going to have more terrible women, she said.

The issue is that the politicians, the only way they can get elected, the women vote for them. The reason we cant see a change in these laws  is because they wont be re-elected. Does every person deserve the right to vote? Because essentially we have a society where men are just paying for womens bad decisions, she added.

Hannah Pearl Davis suggests outside of reproduction, society would function fine without women

In another video, Hannah said that outside of reproduction, society would function fine without women. If women stopped working tomorrow I think we would have an increase in efficiency, not a decrease, she said.

The problem is we have all these women that think theyre doing more than they are because theyre hot and they make money off of being hot, and theyre subsidized by the government, she added.

There are several other videos of Hannah, where she claimed that women don't deserve a guy that makes six figures if youre obese, that women are to blame if their partner cheats, and then men should be able to hit women back. A lot of you guys are shitty wives, she said in one video. You dont cook for your man, you belittle him, you nag on him all the time. You dont treat him like a man.

Hannah also made some very controversial comments on divorce. I just think that if you want to leave, you just shouldnt get married. You know, because marriage is supposed to be for better or for worse, in sickness and in health, for richer or for poorer, its not supposed to be when I feel like leaving. The majority of divorces now its just when the girl feels like leaving, she said.

Hannah insisted that she is not a misogynist. Misogyny is the hatred of women, she said. I dont hate women. For some reason acknowledging a basic truth like men and women are different is labelled as misogyny nowadays.
Days after Vladimir Putin witnessed one of the biggest challenges as Russian premier after the Wagner Group chief launched a mutiny against the top leadership, Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky on Saturday claimed that the war-torn country has killed at least 21,000 Wagner mercenaries and wounded another 80,000 so far. Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky(AFP)

Speaking during a press conference with a Spanish media, Zelensky said that the private military company has suffered enormous losses, particularly in Eastern Ukraine, reported CNN.

Calling the Wagner mercenaries as mostly convicts who had nothing to lose, the Ukrainian President said that the fighters are motivated staff of the Russian army.

Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin's rebellion has greatly affected Russian power on the battlefield and could be beneficial to Ukraine's counteroffensiveWe need to take advantage of this situation to push the enemy out of our land, Zelensky said, adding that he would not rush the counteroffensive as he values human lives.

On being asked if he fears for his life amid the war, Zelensky said that it is more dangerous for Putin. It's only in Russia that they want to kill me, whereas the entire world wants to kill him, he added, reported CNN.

Putin's 3 options to Wagner

On June 29, the the Wagner Group chief launched a mutiny against Putin claiming that it was to save save his group after being ordered to place it under the command of the defence ministry. Following this, Putin gave the fighters three options - sign contracts with the Russian defence ministry, return to civilian life or go into exile in Belarus.
KRAKOW, Poland, July 2. Azerbaijani kickboxer Farid Agamoglanov has emerged victorious, securing a gold medal at the III European Games, Trend reports.

Agamoglanov achieved a resounding victory in the final, defeating Italian athlete Damiano Tramontano with a score of 3:0.

The ongoing tournament, lasting until July 2, features the participation of approximately 7,000 athletes from 48 countries. Azerbaijan is represented by a contingent of 86 athletes competing in 13 sports.

The Azerbaijani national team has demonstrated exceptional performance, accumulating a total of nine medals at the III European Games, including two gold, one silver, and six bronze.

The inaugural European Games were held in Baku in 2015, followed by the second edition in Minsk in 2019. Azerbaijan's national team achieved an impressive second-place finish in Baku-2015 and secured 10th place in Minsk-2019, amassing a remarkable tally of 84 medals: 26 gold, 25 silver, and 33 bronze.
Berkshire Humane Society Overwhelmed With Cats

PITTSFIELD, Mass.  Berkshire Humane Society is in need of supplies, food, donations and, especially, adoptees for more than 150 cats.

The nonprofit organization is asking animals lovers to help with an escalating situation by donating cash or goods, adopting a homeless animal or sponsoring an animals adoption, providing a specialized foster home or volunteering.

The shelter is taking $100 off dog and cat adoption fees through July 15 in an effort to move animals out of the crowded shelter. In addition, adoption fees of all small animals except rabbits will be waived.

"I've never seen it like this," said John Perreault, executive director, in a statement. "We have waiting lists for people to surrender their pet; our kennel is full, our cat room is full and we're overflowing with small animals  more than double our normal capacity.

"We can't keep pet food in our pantry due to increased assistance requests and our low-cost spay and neuter program is booking into February. It's a harmonic convergence of need and we're looking to the good people of Berkshire County and beyond to help fulfill that need."

Perrault said the society is asking for money donations to support its life-saving programs, including its pet food pantry and low-cost spay and neuter program. The shelter is also accepting donations of dog and cat food and cat litter.

"If you were ever thinking about adopting an animal, now is the time. We have the best selection of animals that we've had in years," he said. "And if you can't adopt, you can sponsor the adoption fee or one of our animals, individually or through your business."

Volunteers at the shelter are also welcome and there are expanded opportunities to foster animals that need individual attention before becoming adoptable.

Perreault said he hasn't seen shelter populations as large as they are since the late 1990s. He attributes this to a number of factors.

"Other shelters throughout New York and New England previously reported a 'post-COVID' surge in surrenders. We hadn't seen that, but now we are. People are losing their homes and their money and can't afford food or veterinary care for their pets, if they can even find a vet appointment," he said.

"Some people are so desperate that they've abandoned their pets at our door, as was the recent case for a young hound and box of guinea pigs. We ask anyone needing to surrender an animal to work with us and find an appropriate time for us to accept your animal. It may take a few weeks, but together we can find that perfect home."

Other factors ballooning animal numbers is a lack and timely availability of low-cost spay and neuter programs for pet cats and community cats that's resulted in an excess of kittens.

The shelter has also admitted more animals recently to help towns deal with unhealthy overcrowding of animals in homes, including more than 70 dogs and cats from just two removal cases. On top of that, more adoptable cats have been captured through the shelter's Community Cat Program.

Shelves in the food bank are depleted regularly and more pets need medical attention before they are adoptable. Animals are also staying longer at the shelter because they await scarce spay and neuter appointments. With a shortage of local veterinarians, the shelter has advertised for an in-house veterinarian to address these needs.

Berkshire Humane Society recently opened a Wellness Clinic in the former Allen Heights Veterinary Hospital to provide affordable and accessible preventative care.

"We're doing what we can to relieve the pressure," said Perreault, "but as a nonprofit, we can only do as much as our supporter provide. On behalf of the animals, we're asking for your help."
BAKU, Azerbaijan, July 1. Bulgaria has imported 74.8 million cubic meters of natural gas from Azerbaijan in April 2023, as compared to 44.5 million cubic meters in March 2023, Eurostat, the statistical office of the European Union, told Trend.

As such, the countrys gas imports from Azerbaijan rose by more than 68 percent month-on-month.

The value of gas supplies stood at 29,873,543 euros in April, compared to 30,492,637 euros in March, showing more than 2 percent decrease.

Bulgaria started importing gas from Azerbaijan via the Interconnector Greece-Bulgaria (IGB) which was put into operation on October 1, 2022. The contracted volume of gas supplies via this interconnector is 1 billion cubic meters per year. The total capacity of IGB is 3 billion cubic meters, expandable to 5 billion cubic meters per year.

Azerbaijan exports gas to Europe via the Trans Adriatic Pipeline, the final leg of the Southern Gas Corridor. The initial capacity of TAP is 10 billion cubic meters expandable to 20 billion cubic meters per year.

Follow the author on Twitter: @Lyaman_Zeyn
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India cannot be restricted by exclusive relationships with a single country and it is advancing on multiple major relationships at the same time, foreign minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar said about ties with US and Russia.

Delivering a lecture at an event in Kolkata, Mr Jaishankar said Indias strong ties with Russia or any other country should not become an obstacle in equally strong relations with the US.

It is not in our (Indias) interest to be tied down to exclusive relationships, Mr Jaishankar said on the question of divided loyalties and India-US relations.

Because we have a tradition of strong ties with Russia, that should not become a burden or an obstacle to an equally strong relationship with the United States, he said.

The White House rolled out a red carpet for Indian prime minister Narendra Modi for a three-day visit during which he met president Joe Biden. The two leaders said the United States and India are among the closest partners in the world as the two leaders hashed out deals and made announcements of new partnerships.

This was despite suppressed frustration over New Delhis reluctance to directly criticise Russia for its war in Ukraine while sticking to a policy that best suits Indias interest. Experts have said India is maintaining a neutral position in the war to continue its balancing act between the West and Russia.

Mr Jaishankar said that independence of thoughts and independence of actions should not be confused with neutrality.

India will look at any situation from the point of view of what is in its interests, he said.

India which calls Russia the time-tested partner has ramped up the purchase of Russian crude oil since Vladimir Putins invasion of Ukraine. India has become one of the biggest importers of Russian oil as the European Union imposed sanctions on energy to squeeze its energy gains and cut funding to war in Ukraine.

The Indian leadership has defended the imports saying it will look after its interests first while blaming the European Union for importing more than India.
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German bodybuilder Jo Lindner, known online has Joesthetics, has died from an aneurysm in Thailand, aged 30.

The news was confirmed by the fitness influencers girlfriend Nicha on Saturday (1 July).

Posting pictures of herself with Lindner on her Instagram feed, Nicha paid tribute to the YouTuber she desribed as sweet, kind, and hardworking.

And he is the believer in EVERYONE, she continued. specially [sic] ME he believes in me that I could be better and be someone in this world.

Lindner had 8.4 million Instagram followers, and his YouTube videos reportedly earned nearly 500 million views.

Nicha said Lindner suffered an aneurysm after complaining of pain in his neck earlier this week. She also said she was with him when he died.

An aneurysm is an abnormal swelling or bulge in the wall of a blood vessel.

[The] Last word he said [to me]: Bae we all always can start again and that is the key. always keep start [sic] again, she later wrote on her Instagram Stories.

Subsequently, Nicha appeared to address speculation around Lindners cause of death, writing its unfair to her partner that people guess how he die [sic] or say he overdose.

She added that if Lindner was brave enough to admit he used steroids, there was no reason not to believe him.

In an interview with fellow bodybuilder Bradley Martyn last month, Lindner spoke about being diagnosed with rippling muscle disease, a rare genetic condition that causes muscles to become unsually sensitive to movement or pressure.

According to the Genetic and Rare Diseases Information Center (GARD), the disorder is characterised by signs of increased muscle irritability such as repetitive tensing of the muscle, bunching up of the muscle, and/or prominent rippling.

Technically, its a cramp, Lindner told Martyn, during an episode of the latters Raw Talk show.

After news of Lindners death broke, fellow bodybuilder Noel Deyzel confirmed the reports were true on his Instagram Stories.

This is not a joke. His mother requested that we inform people about the situation, he wrote. Please keep Jo and his loved ones in your prayers.

I still just cant f***ing believe it. Rest in peace brother.

Another one of Lindners friends, known as Vigorous Steve, posted a YouTube video shortly after his death, explaining that the cause of death reports were based on preliminary findings.

Were still waiting for the autopsy reports, he added.
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The Duchess of York, Sarah Ferguson, reportedly feels very lucky to be alive after undergoing surgery to treat breast cancer, following a routine mammogram.

Last week, a spokesman for Ferguson, 63, told The Independent the mastectomy had been successful and that the duchess was recuperating with her family.

He added: She is also hugely thankful to the staff involved in the mammogram which identified her illness, which was otherwise symptom-free, and believes her experience underlines the importance of regular screening.

Now, a friend of Ferguson has reportedly told the Mail on Sunday that the surgery lasted nearly eight hours and was more involved than people think.

Today, the message she wants to get out is that she is very grateful to those who saved her and she feels very lucky to be alive, the newspaper quoted its source as saying.

On behalf of Ferguson, the source thanked surgeons Christina Choy and Stuart James who carried out the operation and the entire medical team who worked tirelessly to help her.

As per the report, Fergusons daughter Princess Eugenie has all but moved in to the Royal Lodge, where the duchess lives with Prince Andrew, to look after her mother.

The former couples older daughter Princess Beatrice is constantly on the phone with Ferguson, who she visits frequently.

A representative for the duchess declined to comment on the story.

In the latest episode of her podcast Tea Talks with the Duchess and Sarah, Ferguson urged listeners to get screened for breast cancer.

The episode was recorded one day prior to the duchess surgery at King Edward VIIs Hospital in central London.

She said: Tomorrow Im going in for a mastectomy. I want every single person who is listening to this podcast to go get checked, go get screened, and go do it.

She also said preparing for the mastectomy has inspired a fresh outlook on her life.

Sarah, Duchess of York (Jonathan Brady/PA) (PA Archive)

Im taking this as a real gift to  change my life, she explained. Im going to get super fit, super strong  and look at it straight on.

Ferguson recently celebrated the birth of her new grandchild, Ernest George Ronnie Brooksbank, the son of Princess Eugenie and Jack Brooksbank.

Earlier this year, she also released her new Mills & Boon book, A Most Intriguing Lady, a historical romance whodunnit.

Ferguson married Andrew in 1986, and they separated six years later in 1992. However, they have remained close since their divorce was finalised in 1996, and continue to reside in the Royal Lodge in Windsor together.

During an appearance on Good Morning America in March, Ferguson said its been really difficult to watch the disgraced duke endure withering public scrutiny.

Andrew stepped down as a senior member of the royal family over his alleged ties to convicted paedophile Jeffrey Epstein.

In an interview with The Independent, Ferguson spoke about her relationship with Andrew, adding no one can break the York family.
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The sex they had was disgusting. The words, vile (I want to grab you by the ass while I suffocate you with my cock). The whole thing: straight out of a porn scene bookmarked by a teenage boy. But in The Idol, troubled superstar Jocelyn actually seems into these triple X-rated liaisons with creepy club owner Tedros. Soon hes moved into her house for work purposes. Next, the pair are singing thats my family around a grand piano. And thats the moment you realise: this is not a family, its a cult.

Much has been written about The Idol, HBOs seedy new drama about a young musicians attempted comeback following a nervous breakdown and her fledgling relationship with a seedy self-help guru that may or may not have done some dark s***, as one of the characters claims. But its most interesting aspect  its depiction of cults  is one that has been strangely glossed over. The much-maligned series from Euphorias Sam Levinson and Tesfaye has been criticised for everything from its gratuitous nudity and undeveloped plotlines to its torture obsession and grotesque sex scenes. All this has led to a somewhat disastrous reception, only made worse by the recent news that the six-part series will conclude one episode earlier than planned this weekend.

The fraught reception suggests that The Idol will be remembered more for its shortcomings than its triumphs, of which there are, in fact, actually a few. Alongside the depiction of Jocelyns entourage, its representation of cults is one of them, even if the writers dont quite delve into it with the depth it deserves. It would be fascinating, for example, to learn more about how Tedros various followers came under his spell, and why it is that he seems fixated on gathering such talented people, and controlling their talent as if its his own.

But the trouble is that nothing in this show is subtle; in Levinsons script, nuance doesnt exist. And so, even though you get the gist early on that Jocelyn is being manipulated into Tedros army of talented yet tormented twentysomethings, its not explicitly spelled out for us until later.

Take the moment Tedros snaps at Jocelyns best friend-slash-assistant Leia (Rachel Sennott): Im running the show now, he says, smirking. Or when Tedros takes Jocelyn shopping for a full wardrobe revamp at Valentino because he doesnt think she has taste. The most excruciating moment for the viewer, though, comes in episode four when the duo start writing a new song and Jocelyn tells her strange lover-turned-manager, I like not having to make decisions for myself, and goes on to put a variation of the line in her track. We get it, shes under his spell.

Given how clearcut the cult theme is in the show, it seems frustrating, then, that its not explored beyond the superficial. According to Dr Steven Hassan, a world-renowned cult expert, the definition of a cult is a group that is controlling peoples behaviour, thoughts and emotions to the degree that it makes those people dependent on and obedient to a leader or the groups ideology.

In order to ascertain whether something fits this description, Dr Hassan uses a model called BITE, named for the fact that it determines the extent of a cult leaders control on ones behaviour, information, thought and emotions. Many people think of mind control as an ambiguous, mystical process that cannot be defined in concrete terms, Dr Hassan explains on his website. In reality, mind control refers to a specific set of methods and techniques, such as hypnosis or thought-stopping, that influence how a person thinks, feels and acts.

Most people are recruited [into cults] at a vulnerable moment, without understanding the forces that are brought to bear on them Dr Steven Hassan

This is Tedros and Co to a tee. Throughout the series, we see him subjecting each of his disciples to various acts of psychological and physical torture as a way of enforcing their loyalty. There is the electric shock collar that he uses on Izaak (Moses Sumney) and Xander (Troye Sivan), the latter of whom attempts to frame Jocelyns ex-boyfriend by photographing him with another woman, an act of vengeance that can only have been instructed by Tedros.

In the most disturbing moment of the show so far, there is the hairbrush Tedros uses to hit Jocelyn, mimicking the abuse of her late mother. His control over her only seems to grow as a result of this act of violence. It gets to a point whereby, in episode four, Tedros manages to convince Jocelyn to let him bring her to orgasm in front of a room full of people so that they add a recording of her doing so in one of her songs.

All of this is troubling to watch, particularly because Tedros's mind control methods combine sex with torture, exploiting deep-rooted trauma to elicit devotion. Jocelyn has made it clear that she is grieving her mother, which, combined with the complexities of her feelings about the way she abused her, makes her particularly susceptible to someone like Tedros. Most people are recruited [into cults] at a vulnerable moment, without understanding the forces that are brought to bear on them, says Dr Hassan.

This is something we see in real-life cults time and time again. The now-defunct wellness giant, OneTaste, taught a practice known as orgasmic meditation (OM) whereby men would stroke women until they reached orgasm, often in groups of 30 or more pairs. Devoted members of the OneTaste community often ended up working for the company, and in some cases, lived together in a communal house in Brooklyn, New York. According to one report from Bloomberg, several of its employees and devotees were survivors of sexual assault.

OneTaste founder Nicole Daedone (pictured in 2017), who was charged with forced labour conspiracy this month (John Salangsang/BFA/Shutterstock)

Earlier this month, OneTaste founder Nicole Daedone was charged with forced labour conspiracy after facing other allegations of sex trafficking and prostitution. Prosecutors in Brooklyn said that Daedone and OneTastes former head of sales Rachel Cherwitz also subjected members to surveillance in communal homes, instructed them to engage in sex acts for freedom and enlightenment, and failed to pay promised wages.

The downfall of OneTaste might sound extreme, but its business model is omnipresent in todays world. Valued at $1.5 trillion, the wellness industry is booming more than ever. Whether its selling orgasmic meditation or strawberry flavoured lubricant, the seductive promise is always the same: you are broken, we can fix you. This seems to be Tedros unspoken mantra, too  Chloe and Izaak repeatedly credit him for saving their lives, though what theyve been saved from is never explained.

Perhaps then, the question that The Idol almost asks us is whether or not the cult of Tedros is that dissimilar from the cult of the music industry. After all, both are fundamentally about power and exploiting talent for some sort of financial gain. Except one of them is legitimised and the other isnt. It could be an interesting point had the writers explored this further, particularly with regards to the music industrys treatment of young women more generally. Britney Spears appears to be a clear inspiration for Jocelyn, for example, through her clothing and dance routines. But the show never really goes there.

Instead, it seems that Levinson and Tesfaye were too fixated on showing us every crevice of Depps body to make any serious points about anything at all. This is a show that has been sold to us as subversive. But there is nothing shocking about being shocked for shocks sake. It just makes the whole thing seem a little juvenile. Had The Idols creators focused more on the story theyre telling rather than the fanfare around which they've used to tell it, this could have been a powerful series  one that would have been remembered for a lot more than salacious sex scenes that are almost too embarrassing to watch.

The Idol is on Sky and Now
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A U.S.-based group that keeps track of how the Catholic hierarchy deals with allegations of sexual abuse by clergy says Pope Francis made a troubling choice in appointing an Argentine prelate to a powerful Vatican office that handles such cases.

On Saturday, the Vatican announced that the pontiff had picked Monsignor Victor Manuel Fernandez, who is archbishop of La Plata, in the popes homeland, to head the Holy Sees watchdog office for doctrinal orthodoxy. That offices mandate also includes handling of sex abuse allegations lodged against clergy.

BishopAccountability, which is based in Massachusetts, said in a written statement that the prelate in 2019 refused to believe victims who accused a priest in the La Plata archdiocese of sexually abusing boys.

Francis has made a baffling and troubling choice,'' the group said in statement emailed late Saturday in the United States. The statement cited what it said was Fernandez' handling of the case in the Argentine archdiocese. "In his response to allegations, he stoutly supported the accused priest and refused to believe the victims,'' BishopAccountability.org said.

Telephone calls to the La Plata archdiocese office went unanswered on Sunday. The archdiocese didn't immediately respond to an emailed request for comment from the archbishop on the criticism by BishopAccountability.org.

As prefect of the Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith, the 60-year-old archbishop, who will take up his Vatican post in September, will have immense power, especially when it comes to judging and punishing priests who abuse children,'' the U.S. group said.

A trusted adviser to the pontiff, Fernandez has been nicknamed the popes theologian since he is widely believed to have helped author some of Francis most important documents.

Among the duties of the dicastery, or department, are evaluating and processing allegations by victims that they were abused by pedophile priests.

According to BishopAccountability.org, on account of his handling of the 2019 allegations, Fernandez "should have been investigated, not promoted to one of the highest posts in the global church. Nothing about his performance suggests that he is fit to lead the pope's battle against abuse and cover-up.''

Francis has pledged that the Catholic Church will adhere to a zero-tolerance policy on clergy sexual abuse.

BishopAccountablity.org said after a child abuse complaint against the La Plata parish priest from 2008 resurfaced in 2019, the archbishop, who was named by Francis in 2018 to head the archdiocese, published a letter from the priest on the archdiocese's website in which the clergyman denied the allegation, contending he was slandered.

BishopAccountability.org lamented that the archbishop later went to that parish and concelebrated a Mass with the accused priest.

Despite more allegations surfacing against the priest, Fernandez allowed him to continue in his parish ministry, the group said, until the archbishop removed him from the post citing the priest's request to leave for "health reasons.'' In December 2019, the priest took his own life hours after a judge issued an order for his arrest, according to the group and Argentine media reports at the time.

BishopAccountability.org is a 20-year-old group that maintains an online archive documenting the global abuse crisis in the Roman Catholic Church.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, July 2. In late January 2023, it was announced that Kyrgyzstan is developing a new transport corridor that will enable the supply of goods to Russia bypassing Kazakhstan, Trend reports.

As Governor of Russias Astrakhan region Igor Babushkin said while speaking on the sidelines of the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum (SPIEF) held on June 14-17, Astrakhan shipping companies are ready to participate in the establishment of a shipping line in the Caspian Sea between Astrakhan and the Turkmen port of Turkmenbashi.

Reportedly, shipments from Kyrgyzstan would first be delivered to Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan, and then transported through the Caspian Sea from the port of Turkmenbashi to the Russian port of Astrakhan.

"We have worked with our shipping companies on the opening of a shipping line [between the Astrakhan port of Olya and the port of Turkmenbashi], and they are ready to participate. In addition, our shipbuilders are ready to construct vessels for operations on Caspian shipping lines; we have sufficient experience and competence. This will contribute to the growth of cargo traffic along the North-South international transport corridor and reduce transportation costs for cargo owners across the Caspian Sea," said Babushkin.

In 2022, the government of Turkmenistan and the administration of the Astrakhan region agreed to build a logistics center in Olya, a major trading port in the Caspian basin, located 100 km south of Astrakhan.

Meanwhile, as Minister of Economy and Commerce of Kyrgyzstan, Daniyar Amangeldiyev, noted, Kyrgyzstan will supply re-export goods from China through the new transport corridor, as local entrepreneurs face difficulties with transit through Kazakhstan.
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Eighteen private Jewish schools run by New York City's politically powerful Hasidic community deprived thousands of students the required secular education in English, math, science and social studies that they need to function successfully outside their religious enclaves, according to findings from an eight-year investigation by New York City school officials.

The eight-year investigation  which critics say was long delayed because of politics  concluded that many of the religious schools, or yeshivas, were not providing substantially equivalent instruction in core subjects as do public schools  as mandated by state law.

In a letter to at least one school, NYC schools Chancellor David Banks expressed concern that students were not being instructed in key subjects sufficient to prepare them for their futures.

A review of more than two dozen yeshivas, which receive hundreds of millions public funding, determined that only seven of those schools were in compliance with state rules.

The probe was sparked by complaints by a former student who said he was not provided with the schooling necessary to navigate the outside world.

That prompted a group called Young Advocates for a Fair Education to call for the citys Department of Education to launch an investigation. City officials began its inquiry in 2015.

But the investigation was conducted in fits and starts, as Hasidic leaders used political muscle to push back against any intrusions into their community, which is concentrated in the Brooklyn neighborhood of Williamsburg.

Hasidic Jews comprise one movement of the Orthodox Judaism. And while the roughly 200,000 Hasidic Jews in New York City represent just a fraction of the citys Jewish population, they have amassed considerable influence within the citys power structure because of the communitys penchant for voting as a bloc.

We hope that the completion of this investigation compels the city and Mayor Eric Adams to act on behalf of thousands of students who are being deprived of their right to a sound basic education, said the groups executive director, Beatrice Weber.

But Weber suggested some of the schools deemed compliant were not reviewed adequately and that students in those schools will continue to be deprived of a basic education.

Richard Bamberger, a spokesman for Parents for Educational And Religious Liberty in Schools, said parents send their children to yeshivas because of the moral and religious approach taken by the schools.

They will continue to do so, regardless of how many government lawyers try to insist that yeshiva education is best measured by checklists they devise rather than the lives yeshiva graduates lead, he told the New York Daily News.

City school officials said the bulk of schools it visited were cooperative, while a small number of schools were less so.

For any school found to not be substantially equivalent, NYC schools spokesperson Nathaniel Styer said in a statement, the DOE stands ready to support the school to becoming substantially equivalent.

The schools that failed to provide the necessary instruction must draft a remediation plan and have as long as two years to put it in place.

Our goal is to educate children, not punish adults, Styer said.

Because Saturday is a day of Sabbath for many Jews, spokespeople for various groups could not be reached.

The findings come amid a push to strengthen oversight of the state's 1,800 private and religious schools, following a New York Times investigation published last fall that exposed how students at Hasidic schools were denied basic education in crucial subjects.

But the new state rules were pared back by a judge earlier this year after a lawsuit was brought by ultra-Orthodox Jewish schools. The judge ruled that parents cannot be required to pull their children from private schools that fail to meet state-designated standards.
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Just two out of 1,049 Afghans offered refuge by the UK for their part in helping British forces have been brought to safety from Pakistan in the past three months, The Independent can reveal. A further 300 who did not work directly with UK forces are eligible to come to the UK through a separate programme.

Interpreters who worked for the British army are among those who have been invited to resettle in Britain after risking their lives to help coalition forces.

But they and their families, who have been stuck in hotels in Islamabad for months, are now living as prisoners and afraid to go out for fear of deportation back to the Taliban-run country.

In recent weeks, Pakistans authorities have cracked down on refugees, with at least 175 immigrants  mainly Afghans  detained and imprisoned. Earlier this year, more than 600 people were sent back to Afghanistan.

The UKs failure to look after those it promised to help was blasted as shameful by the shadow defence secretary, while former army officer and Labour MP Dan Jarvis urged ministers to get a grip on the situation.

The revelation comes as The Independent is campaigning for an Afghan pilot, who served alongside coalition forces and has been threatened with deportation to Rwanda because he arrived in the UK on a small boat, to be granted refuge.

Sign The Independents petition calling for UK to support Afghan war heroes who served alongside Britain

The military and diplomatic employees all worked for or with the British in the run-up to the fall of Kabul in August 2021.

They have all been given permission to come to the UK under the Ministry of Defences Afghan relocations and assistance policy scheme (Arap), but are unable to get here as a result of the British governments decision to stop chartering flights last November and its stipulation that they need to find their own accommodation in the UK before they can travel here.

They are currently living in hotels run by the UK government, with temporary Pakistani visas. The UK has spent 17m between April 2022 and March 2023 on housing them.

The latest government data shows that only two people were relocated to the UK from Pakistan between 1 March and 24 May this year. Eight people in total have been relocated to the UK from anywhere in the world during the three-month period covering March, April and May.

Those still stranded in Islamabad told The Independent they are terrified of being sent back to Taliban-run Afghanistan if the Pakistan authorities find out their visas have expired.

One former interpreter who was embedded with British troops in Helmand province said his visa had run out and that he would not go outside the hotel for fear of arrest.

The man, who has been waiting for more than a year in Islamabad, said: We are now living as prisoners. Afghans are arrested and deported by the police every day. Life is very hard and no one listens to us or understands our problems.

Another former interpreter, who has been in a hotel since April, asked his caseworker what would happen to him and his family now that their three-month Pakistani visas had run out.

He was told by the British High Commission caseworker that he shouldnt leave the hotel and that, if he did, the police would arrest him or deport him back to Afghanistan.

We are not good because we dont know how long we will stay here. I dont know who in the UK can help us with accommodation. Our visas have expired and the caseworker told me they would not be able to intervene if I am arrested, he said.

One former interpreter with the British army has been told he should not leave his hotel in Pakistan for fear of arrest and deportation (The Independent)

The UK government has told the Afghans they will only be transferred if they can prove they have private accommodation in the UK and can show they have the funds to support themselves.

The majority  around 1,049 people  of those stuck in hotels in Islamabad are eligible for relocation under Arap, which was set up to support Afghans employed by the British army.

And around 300 people in the hotels qualify for resettlement under the Afghan citizens resettlement scheme (ACRS), because they were employed as British embassy guards or British Council workers or are on the Chevening scholarship programme, which gives leaders from around the world the opportunity to undertake a masters degree in the UK.

A former British embassy worker, who is living in an Islamabad hotel with his wife and five children, said: Our visas are expired and we are not allowed to go outside and we are facing problems. My children are not getting any education and they feel so bad.

Interpreters embedded with the British army are among those stranded in hotels in Islamabad (The Independent)

Shadow defence secretary John Healey said Britain has a moral duty to assist these Afghans.

He said: Bringing only two Arap-eligible individuals to the UK in three months is simply shameful. It leaves hundreds of Afghans fleeing the Taliban stuck in Pakistan hotels without hope or proper support. Ministers must fix the failing Arap scheme.

Labour MP Dan Jarvis said the government had failed to honour its commitment to these families, leaving them in limbo in Pakistan. He said: Ministers need to get a grip on the situation and allow them safe and legal passage to the UK.

We are now living as prisoners says one person staying in an Islamabad hotel (The Independent)

Former Tory minister and Brexit Party MEP Ann Widdecombe said the situation was a scandal.

She added: We had years to bring the interpreters over and we left everything until the last minute. We then encouraged people to cross into Pakistan, and weve now stopped running evacuation flights from there. Weve just abandoned them.

Steve Valdez-Symonds, from Amnesty International, said the UK governments Afghan resettlement scheme remains a mirage. He added: The governments offer of protection is grossly flawed and utterly inadequate.

Jon Featonby, from the Refugee Council, said it is completely unrealistic to expect men, women and children who have fled the Taliban to find their own accommodation in the UK while stuck in a hotel in Pakistan.

A government spokesperson said it is vital that those arriving have somewhere suitable to stay once they are in the UK.

They added: The UK has made an ambitious and generous commitment to help at-risk people in Afghanistan and, so far, we have brought around 24,600 vulnerable people to safety, including thousands of people eligible for our Afghan resettlement schemes.
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Fears are growing for a missing Transatlantic sailor in his 60s after his yacht was found drifting with nobody on board.

Duncan Lougee, from Essex, went missing after setting sail from Plymouth at midday on 18 June.

Mr Lougee was due to arrive in Baltimore, Ireland, on 22 June, but there had been no contact since his departure, prompting a search to be launched.

Duncan Lougee is from Essex (Facebook)

The search was called off after the sailors yacht was found off the coast of Cornwall on Thursday. Mr Lougee was not on board, the UK Marine and Coastguard Agency said.

His boat was found 70 miles (113km) north west off Trevose Head.

Mr Lougee, who lived in Dedham near Colchester, was taking part in the single-handed sailing challenge. He has previously completed the same trip successfully and was planning to sail the route via the Isles of Scilly.

He was described as an experienced yacht broker, boat builder and sailor.

The missing Essex resident had undertaken many miles of sailing, including single-handedly crossing the Atlantic Ocean.

The UK Marine & Coastguard Agency said: The search for the yacht Minke and its skipper, who was taking part in the single-handed Jester Challenge, from Plymouth to Baltimore, Ireland, has been stood down.

The yacht was found on 29 June approximately 70 miles north-west off Trevose Head, Cornwall; sadly the skipper was not on the vessel.

It is unclear in what condition the missing vessel was found in.

Duncan Lougee was decribed as an experienced sailor (Facebook)

A spokesman for Devon and Cornwall police confirmed Mr Lougee remains missing.

They added: The Minke is due to be brought to shore and Coastguard will continue searches in the area.

Mr Lougees next of kin has been informed of the latest developments, Devon and Cornwall police said.

The sailor was last seen around Falmouth Bay near the Helford River at around 2pm on Monday, June 19.

A Facebook post described Mr Lougees family as frantic. It said: On behalf of the family, please look out for Duncan Lougee who has been missing at sea off the south coast since 18 June.

Any information, no matter how seemingly insignificant, is desperately needed.

As you can imagine, his family are frantic.

Mr Lougee was a director for yacht broker firm Clarke and Carter. A spokesperson for the company said they are deeply concerned for Mr Lougees wellbeing.

On behalf of the entire yachting community here in Suffolk, we would like to express our huge gratitude to the authorities for their ongoing search, the statement said.

Our priority at this time is supporting Duncans family.
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Bridget Phillipson has said she does not believe her Labour frontbench colleague Jess Phillips is racist, amid a row with a high-profile headteacher.

Ms Phillips was accused of racist and bullying behaviour by Katharine Birbalsingh, former chairwoman of the Social Mobility Commission and once dubbed Britains strictest headteacher.

Asked about the allegations on Sunday, shadow education secretary Ms Phillipson said she does not believe her colleague is racist, but anyone who is unhappy with the conduct of an MP should make their concerns known through the formal parliamentary process.

Ms Birbalsingh, head of high-achieving Michaela Community School in Brent, north-west London, accused Ms Phillips, MP for Birmingham Yardley and a shadow Home Office minister, of seeking to whip up a social media mob against her on Twitter.

Her behaviour is a clear example of unconscious bias. I mean that she hates me, despite not knowing me, because she subscribes to the idea that black and Asian individuals in public life owe a duty to voice opinions that match with a left-wing view of the world, or they are worthy of her contempt, Ms Birbalsingh said in a four-page open letter to Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer published on Saturday.

The row came after the headteacher said she inadvertently tweeted a picture of Tina Turner alongside her abusive former husband Ike Turner amid tributes to the late star.

Ms Phillipson was asked on Skys Sophie Ridge On Sunday programme to respond to the allegations levelled at her colleague.

She said: My reaction to anyone who feels unhappy about the conduct of a Labour MP is that they should complain through our processes and then the matter can be looked into.

And, as Members of Parliament, were also subject to a code of conduct and there are processes in place for people who are unhappy with an MPs behaviour, to report it in that way.

I would suggest that to any individual thats unhappy about the conduct of a Member of Parliament.

Asked if it is right for Ms Birbalsingh to put in an official complaint, Ms Phillipson said: I think anyone who is unhappy about the conduct of an MP in any way should make their concerns known and then they can be properly considered.

Asked if she thinks Ms Phillips is racist, Ms Phillipson said: No, I dont. But I think its important that, if people have concerns, if theyre unhappy about the conduct of a Member of Parliament, that can be investigated as part of that process.

She was also asked if there is any truth in claims that criticism has been levelled at the headteacher because she is not seen as being left-wing.

Ms Phillipson said: When I visit schools the length and breadth of the country, what I find are dedicated people who are focused on making sure children get a great start in life.

Very rarely will the conversation drift into politics. What people come into teaching to do, and what people when they become school leaders are focused on as well, is delivering really high-quality education. And thats as it should be.

Asked if she would like to visit the Michaela Community School run by Ms Birbalsingh, the shadow education secretary said: I visit schools everywhere. Im always open to invitations to visit schools right across the country, its the best part of the job.

Ms Phillips has been contacted for a response.
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Joe Biden will meet the King and Prime Minister Rishi Sunak when he visits the UK later this month.

A visit to the UK had long been expected and comes after Mr Sunak visited Washington last month for talks with the US president.

Downing Street said that the visit reflected the strong relationship between the UK and US, after the White House confirmed the trip.

President Biden is scheduled to travel to the United Kingdom, Lithuania, and Finland from July 9-13.

President Biden will first travel to London, United Kingdom for engagements with King Charles III and Prime Minister Rishi Sunak to further strengthen the close relationship between our nations, White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said in a statement.

Buckingham Palace confirmed that the King will meet Mr Biden at Windsor Castle on July 10.

A No 10 spokeswoman said: The Prime Minister looks forward to welcoming President Biden in the UK later this month.

This reflects the strong relationship between the UK and US, building on a series of bilateral visits and meetings earlier this year.

Mr Biden made a brief trip to Northern Ireland earlier this year to mark the 25th anniversary of the Good Friday Agreement, meeting the Prime Minister for brief talks in Belfast.

The White House said that after visiting the UK Mr Biden would then travel to Vilnius, Lithuania from July 11- 12 to attend the 74th Nato Summit.

On July 13, President Biden will visit Helsinki, Finland for a US-Nordic Leaders Summit.

The apparently short trip by Mr Biden comes after the US and the UK announced a new partnership, the Atlantic Declaration, to bolster economic security.

Announced during Mr Sunaks visit to the White House, it included commitments on easing trade barriers, closer defence industry ties and a data protection deal.

While both sides used that Washington visit to hail the strength of US-UK ties, Mr Biden has not been afraid of occasionally criticising London.

Mr Biden in May claimed that he visited the island of Ireland earlier this year to ensure the Brits didnt screw around, amid ongoing US concern about the impact of Brexit on the peace process.

During that visit, the President told the Irish parliament that he believed the UK should be working more closely with the administration in Dublin to support Northern Ireland.

Mr Biden and First Lady Jill Biden travelled to London for the funeral of the late Queen last September.

The US President did not attend the Kings coronation, with his wife attending instead.

Mr Sunak will also be attending the Nato summit in Vilnius, which is seen as a crunch summit at which a compromise on Ukraines demand for membership of the alliance is expected to be hammered out.
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Tributes have been paid to a true public servant of the highest integrity, Lord Bob Kerslake, after his family announced he has died.

The former head of the civil service, 68, died on Saturday after a short battle with cancer, his devastated sister Ros Kerslake CBE said in a post on social media on Sunday morning.

Former prime minister David Cameron called him a committed public official and said that he served the Coalition Government with great professionalism after a long career in local government.

Senior Labour Party figures including leader Sir Keir Starmer; shadow health secretary Wes Streeting; former shadow chancellor John McDonnell; and mayor of London Sadiq Khan, were also among those who paid their respects to the crossbench peer.

He was nominated for a peerage by Mr Cameron and ennobled following his retirement as permanent secretary at the Department for Communities and Local Government, with the peerage was conferred by the late Queen in 2015.

Lord Kerslake was also a chairman of Kings College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust in south London but he quit the role in 2017, warning that the health service could not continue staggering along under the current funding levels.

Announcing the news on Twitter, Ros Kerslake wrote: My brother Bob (Lord Robert Kerslake) died yesterday after a short battle with cancer. We are all devastated.

In another tweet, Eleanor Kerslake added: Unfortunately my wonderful dad Bob Kerslake died yesterday.

We are all devastated.

Dad had a few jobs in his time but the most important to him was being a truly fantastic husband, dad, brother, son and granddad.

Im very sorry to learn that Bob Kerslake has died, Sir Keir tweeted on Sunday.

Bob was a talented public servant, utmost professional, and a good man.

He was rightly respected across Westminster for his experience and wisdom, and Im grateful for his recent contributions to the Labour Party.

Sincere condolences to his family.

Cabinet Secretary Simon Case said he was deeply saddened by the news.

Bob will always be remembered for his immense contribution to public life, including during his time as head of the Civil Service, he said in a statement.

Labour veteran Mr McDonnell tweeted: Just heard the terribly sad news Bob Kerslake has died.

Ive known Bob from when he was with us at the GLC (Greater London Council).

He was a true public servant of the highest integrity, dedicating his life to caring for people & tackling inequality wherever he found it. My condolences to his family.

Mr Streeting said his death was terribly sad news.

Bob was such a committed and decent public servant taken far too soon, he tweeted.

Deepest condolences to your family and all those who knew and loved him.

Mr Khan hailed him as a true public servant.

His kindness and commitment to improving our city and country will always be remembered, he added.

My thoughts are with his family and friends today.

Mark Lloyd, chief executive at the Local Government Association, paid tribute to the peer who served as president of the body between 2015 and 2021.

He said: Bob was a giant of local government and remained a passionate champion during his time as our president and far beyond.

He will be missed.

Lord Kerslake also chaired the independent review into Greater Manchesters preparedness and response to the Manchester Arena bombing in 2017.
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The cancer which led to the death of campaigner Laura Nuttall is being neglected and treated as the cancer in the corner, her mother has said.

Nicola Nuttall said her daughter would be marching on the House of Commons if she was still alive, demanding improvements for the care of people with glioblastoma multiforme.

Her daughter died in May, aged just 23, after years of campaigning and raising awareness of the rare and aggressive brain cancer.

Mrs Nuttall called for a number of improvements in care, including genome sequencing of brain tumours and more information for those affected by the disease.

She is backing a new report by the charity OurBrainBank which states that glioblastoma is being neglected by the healthcare system and that it is not getting the same level of research as other cancers.

She said that families should be able to access more information about the disease to be included on the NHS website  currently just listed as a malignant tumour on nhs.uk  and that newly diagnosed people are coming to her when they cannot find information online.

I dont have any medical training but theyre coming to me and asking me for advice and support, and Im happy to give it, but its really poor that somebody that runs an indoor play centre is seen as an expert in glioblastoma, she told the PA news agency.

Every time I get an email that says Im sorry for contacting you, could you give me some advice, my heart just sinks because its another family that are looking for a miracle where there really arent any.

The report also calls for whole genome sequencing for everybody that has a brain tumour removed in surgery.

It really does feel like it's the cancer in the corner that nobody is putting any effort into Nicola Nuttall

When that tumour is removed the actual tissue thats removed is like gold dust, Mrs Nuttall said.

You can use it for genomic sequencing so you can identify exactly what that tumour was made up of.

And in the long term gives (scientists) the option of using frozen tissue to make a vaccine which is looking like quite promising treatments for glioblastoma.

She added: So its really important that something that could be seen as just medical waste is actually treated properly and used as a resource going forward.

And once we know what the mutations are, then theres the option to develop novel drug treatments. But at the moment there is one kind of chemotherapy and thats all thats given to people with glioblastoma, and it may well work for a period of time for some people, but we really do need personalised medicine as is available in other kinds of cancers.

It just feels like this one is really neglected.

I know its a hard one, I know the prognosis is really low, but we can change that by putting some effort into it.

And you know, if you go on the NHS website and put glioblastoma in, youll just get a page on malignant tumours, you wont actually find any specific information on it.

So it really does feel like its kind of the cancer in the corner that nobody is putting any effort into.

She said that she will keep campaigning because Laura would be expecting us to continue the fight.

Mrs Nuttall added: Theres been no improvement in decades for this cancer.

Were just going to have to be more noisy about it because unless we do that nothing is going to change.

Ms Nuttall, from Barrowford, Lancashire, was diagnosed with brain cancer in autumn 2018 following a routine eye test.

She was initially told by medics that she would have 12 months to live and dropped out of university in London and underwent an operation to remove the largest of eight tumours.

But in September 2019 she was able to resume her studies closer to home at the University of Manchester and completed a number of items on her bucket list before she died, including completing her degree, meeting Michelle Obama, piloting a Royal Navy patrol boat and presenting a television weather bulletin.

In August 2021 comedian Peter Kay performed two sell-out gigs in Manchester to raise money for Ms Nuttall and Hollywood A-lister Sandra Bullock sent her a touching video message just days before she died in May.

The OurBrainBank report sets out the state of care and therapies available to people diagnosed with glioblastoma in the UK.

The document, which will be presented to the British Neuro-Oncology Society conference in Manchester later this week, says that although there have been many cancer advances in recent years, little progress has been made on glioblastoma, with the standard of care in the NHS unchanged for almost 20 years.

The authors set out the steps which should be taken to improve the situation for patients including genome sequencing for brain tumours removed during surgery, better information on glioblastomas on NHS and Government websites and more clinical trials.

The campaign is also being backed by journalist Richard Clemmow, the widower of former BBC executive Jana Bennett, who died in January 2022, aged 66.

He said: Glioblastoma has been consistently overlooked by those in charge of the NHS at all levels. Its a scandal.

Whilst huge advances have been made in treatment of more common cancers, the situation for people diagnosed with glioblastoma hasnt changed in 20 years. We should hold politicians and those in healthcare to account. We all need to use our brains and focus our minds on the reports findings immediately.

A Department of Health and Social Care spokesperson said: Brain cancer can be a devastating disease  which is why weve specifically allocated 40 million for research in this area, on top of 1 billion a year for wider health research.

Weve invested in every suitable application made and the funding will continue to be available for further studies to develop new treatments and therapies for brain tumours.

To encourage further successful applications, we are investing in infrastructure, workshops for researchers and training for clinicians.

For more information visit: https://www.ourbrainbank.org/use-your-brains/
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Former Tory leader Sir Iain Duncan Smith has warned that the merger between Vodafone and Three is dangerous and risks giving a company with its roots in Communist Party-ruled China a more prominent place in the UKs mobile network.

The former work and pensions secretary and MP for Chingford and Woodford Green said the proposed deal raised serious questions about national security and competition within the UK telecommunications market.

Vodafone and Three, both of which have millions of customers in the UK and Ireland, announced last month that they were joining forces in a multibillion-pound deal they said would create one of Europes biggest 5G networks.

This is a dangerous deal, which it seems is yet another example of how the Communist Party is trying to create a Western dependency on China, Sir Iain told The Independent. Not only does it raise important questions about competition, but it poses risks to our communication networks and personal data.

Three is owned by CK Hutchison, a Hong Kong-listed conglomerate that has been accused of supporting repression in the former British territory, from which thousands of residents fled after Chinas implementation of a sweeping national security law used by authorities to crack down on dissent against the regime in Beijing.

Sir Iain is among a number of cross-party MPs to raise concerns about the growing influence of China in the West, and in particular, telecoms companies who have their headquarters there and are operating in the UK.

The government still doesnt seem to understand that Chinese companies can be mandated to hand over their data to Beijing at the drop of a hat, Sir Iain said.

We should be really worried about that. I also think we need to be taking a closer look at who owns these companies, the links between them and the Chinese government and the origins of the money flowing through them.

Sir Iain Duncan Smith says that the Vodafone and Three merger poses security risk (PA Archive)

Last autumn, the government announced that Shenzen-based Huawei technology must be removed from the UKs 5G public networks by the end of 2027. It followed advice from the National Cyber Security Centre and pressure from Washington, which banned equipment made by the company because it posed an unacceptable risk to US national security.

In March, prime minister Rishi Sunak warned that China aims to reshape the world in plans that pose an era-defining challenge for the UK and its allies in the West but he dismissed calls for Beijing to be categorised as a threat, something his predecessor Liz Truss had pushed for.

The union Unite, which has 1.4 million members, is also campaigning against the merger, which some analysts say could result in job losses and higher prices for consumers who are already being squeezed by the cost-of-living crisis. The deal has triggered an initial investigation by the Competition and Markets Authority and will be subject to approval under the new National Security and Investment Act.

Gail Cartmail, Unites executive head of operations, said: Instead of idly watching the CK Group cream profits from UK businesses, the government should ask if they are a suitable custodian of British assets.

Former prime minister Liz Truss has also raised concerns about Chinas influence (PA Wire)

Charlotte Nichols, the Labour MP for Wigan North who sits on the Department for Business and Trade sub-committee on national security, said: Unite the Union has shared research with me that shows this merger would leave sensitive government contracts and the data of millions of UK consumers in the hands of Three, a company whose key leadership have supported repression in Hong Kong and worked hand-in-hand with the Chinese state for decades.

This will be dangerous deal for the UK and I fully support Unites campaign against it.

Other MPs  both Labour and Conservative  have tabled questions to government departments asking what security assessments ministers have made of the proposed merger deal.

Both Three and Vodafone refused to comment but have previously dismissed concerns about security, saying that they work closely with security bureaus in what is a regulated industry.

The Cabinet Office has said it welcomes foreign trade and investment where it supports growth and jobs in the UK, meets our stringent legal and regulatory requirements, and does not compromise our national security.

It added: However, we will not hesitate to use our powers to protect national security where we identify concerns.
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A Government TD has denied that the coalition could be seeking revenge against RTE amid an ongoing controversy around undeclared top-up payments and governance.

Government representatives have also denied reports in the Irish Mail On Sunday that there are plans within Cabinet to split the commercial and public service parts of the broadcaster and implement redundancies.

On Friday, Taoiseach Leo Varadkar had expressed concern that commercial and public money all goes into the one pot, suggesting that would no longer be appropriate.

Minister of State Ossian Smyth said redundancies are not being sought, while Fianna Fail TD Niamh Smyth, who is chairwoman of the media committee, said the government was not using the controversy at the broadcaster to enact revenge.

Ms Smyth also said that, having spoken to the Media Minister on Sunday morning on foot of the headlines, she is sure that that is not the intention of the government to implement redundancies or split up RTE.

Im pretty certain from speaking with the minister this morning, that is our intention: to protect the staff, to protect RTE, and when I say protect RTE I mean protect that entity of public service broadcasting.

She added: I dont think its revenge on anybodys heart or mind in trying to sort out this in RTE.

Irelands public service broadcaster has been embroiled in controversy since it revealed that it had underdeclared fees paid to highest-earner Ryan Tubridy over several years.

Most of the focus has been on two undeclared 75,000 euro payments made by RTE to Tubridy for the years 2021 and 2022, which were made after RTE reportedly underwrote the amounts due to Tubridy from Late Late Show sponsor Renault.

Political and media scrutiny has focused on why this guarantee was given, what level of governance and financial controls are in place at the broadcaster, and the use of a barter account used to pay the amounts, dubbed a slush fund by politicians and a former RTE chair.

RTE operates on a dual funding model, with 55% of its income, 200 million euro a year, brought in by way of the licence fee  which costs Irish households with a television 160 euro a year.

In recent years, RTE has emphasised a funding crisis at the broadcaster and called for reform of the licence fee, stating that millions were being lost annually by people evading the fee and using the RTE Player on phones and tablets.

Cabinet is due to meet on Tuesday and expected to approve Media Minister Catherine Martins proposal to launch an external review into RTEs governance.

Mr Smyth said on RTEs The Week In Politics that this process is expected to take a number of months, and would include interim reports.

Ms Martin is also due to meet with chairwoman of the RTE board Siun Ni Raghallaigh and incoming director general Kevin Bakhurst in the coming days to discuss is the external review, Mr Bakhursts plan to reconstitute the executive board and to engage with RTE staff.

The Oireachtas media committee has also invited former chairwoman of the RTE board Moya Doherty, ex director general Noel Curran, and former chief financial officer Breda OKeeffe to answer TDs and Senators questions on Wednesday.

Speaking on Newstalks On the Record programme on Sunday, Niamh Smyth said they would try to find out what knowledge there was of these undeclared payments.

The crux of this is about secret payments and the deception of that and I suppose the intended mechanism that was put in place to deceive, not just the public, but the government and the taxpayer, ultimately, she said.

Ms Smyth said it wasnt lost on committee members that no executive came to the committee last Wednesday with an opening statement, which is almost always used by witnesses to lay information before committees.

She said that Mr Tubridy and his agent Noel Kelly would be invited before members once the work with the RTE board and executives had been completed, and said the invite to Ms Forbes still stands.

Time is also being set aside in the Dail on Tuesday afternoon to allow TDs to give statements about recent developments.
TASHKENT, Uzbekistan, July 2. The early voting phase for the presidential elections in Uzbekistan commenced on June 28, providing an opportunity for citizens unable to be present at their place of residence on election day to cast their votes in advance, Trend reports.

According to the Uzbekistan Central Election Commission (CEC), as of July 1, a total of 376,623 voters have casted their votes. Among them, 275,592 voters have cast their ballots within the country, while 101,031 voters have done so outside Uzbekistan.

The early voting will continue until July 5, leading up to the election day scheduled for July 9, 2023.
 Close Baltimore: Mayor condemns 'reckless, cowardly' mass shooting of 30 people

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A teenager is among two people dead after a mass shooting in Baltimore.

An 18-year-old woman was pronounced dead at the scene, while a 20-year-old man was pronounced dead after being taken to a local hospital, police said. A further 28 people were injured, including three who were left in critical condition.

Nine victims were transported to area hospitals after being found with gunshot wounds by police.

Police said the gunman remains at large and were unclear on a possible motive. Baltimore Police Department acting commissioner Richard Worley said investigators were working an extensive crime scene.

The shooting took place in the 800 block of Gretna Avenue early Sunday morning.

Hundreds of people were gathered in the area for an event called Brooklyn Day, a witness told TV station Fox 45, adding that they had heard 20 to 30 shots fired

Mayor Brandon Scott described the shooting as reckless and cowardly.

We will not stop until we find youand we will find you, Mr Scott said, speaking about the perpetrator.
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Members of the far-right organization, the Proud Boys, have been ordered to pay more than $1million damages for their role in destroying property at a predominantly Black church in 2020.

DC Superior Court Judge Neal Kravitz approved the judgement on Friday against Proud Boys members Joseph Biggs, Enrique Tarrio, Jeremy Bertino, and John Turano, as well as the group's LLC.

Judge Kravitz described the incident as "hateful and overtly racist conduct," according to CNN.

The hate group tore down the Metropolitan African Methodist Episcopal Church's Black Lives Matter sign while rallying in Washington DC in 2020.

On 12 December, 2020, individuals dressed in Proud Boys clothing had "leaped over Metropolitan AME's fence, entered the church's property, and went directly to the Black Lives Matter sign," according to Judge Kravitz's order.

"They then broke the zip ties that held the sign in place, tore down the sign, threw it to the ground, and stomped on it while loudly celebrating," Mr Kravitz wrote in his ruling.

"Many others then jumped over the fence onto the churchs property and joined in the celebration of the signs destruction.

He added that the church had "vocally and publicly" supported civil rights and racial justice causes.

Church leaders and congregants view supporting the Black Lives Matter movement as a continuation of the churchs mission of advocacy for civil rights and racial justice, he wrote.

Proud Boys leader Enrique Tarrio was among four ordered to pay $1million to a church after the group destroyed its Black Lives Matter sign in 2020 (Noah Berger)

The judge also said the Proud Boys had "incited and committed acts of violence against members of Black and African American communities across the country".

"They also have victimized women, Muslims, Jews, immigrants, and other historically marginalized people, he wrote.

The $1m compensation awarded to the church will be used to repair the sign and increase security in reponse to the attack and "ongoing threats".

Arthur Ago, an attorney representing the church, said the congregation was not looking for a "monetary windfall" but rather wanted to "stop the Proud Boys from being able to act with impunity, without fear of consequences for their actions".

Tarrio, a leader of the Proud Boys, pleaded guilty in July 2021 to property destruction in a criminal case involving the burning of a Black Lives Matter banner at another predominantly Black church in Washington.

Tarrio and Biggs were also among the four Proud Boys found guilty of seditious conspiracy for their roles in the Capitol riot on January 6, 2021.
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Explosive devices were detonated outside three businesses in Washington DC in the early hours of Sunday, according to law enforcement.

The devices exploded outside stores in the northeast of the capital within 15 minutes of each other, according to the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD).

The first attack occurred around 4.30am when the suspect detonated an explosive device on the sidewalk outside of the ATM attached to the Truist Bank on the 2300 block of Washington Place.

Moments later  at around 4.36am  another device was detonated outside a Nike store in the 700 block of H Street.

After fleeing the scene in a car, a nearby Safeway grocery store was hit with a Molotov cocktail-style object at around 4.45am, police said.

The businesses were closed at the time of the incident and no one was injured. MPD said in a statement that the perpetrators appeared to have targeted commercial establishments, but not members of the public.

Metropolitan Police released surveillance images of the suspect  dressed in black trousers and a white/cream hooded top  as well as a vehicle wanted in connection to the attacks.

The vehicle is a gold or champagne-coloured Acura TL with Maryland licence plate 17971CK.

Pictures shared by 32-year-old DC resident Amanda Koski on Twitter showed damage to one of the targeted structures.

Surveillance image of the suspect and vehicle from the DC attacks (MPD)

The noise woke me up. I have PTSD so when it happened, I kind of froze up and originally I thought it was gunshots. When I looked through my window, I saw glass shattered so I originally thought someone had shot at the bank, Ms Koski told The Independent.

Ms Koski, who works as a political consultant, lives in the apartments above the Truist Bank.

She said the neighbourhood was eerily quiet before MPD and the fire department arrived at the scene.

Metropolitan Police Departments Criminal Investigations Division and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives Washington Field Division are seeking the publics help in identifying suspects and the vehicle involved.

A reward of up to $20,000 is being offered to anyone who provides information leading to the arrest of the individual or individuals behind the Sunday attacks.

Anyone who may have any information about these incidents, to include video or photos from any of the offense location are encouraged to call MPD at (202) 727-9099 or text your tip to the Departments TEXT TIP LINE at 50411.
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A five-year-old girl was declared dead after she was found unresponsive in a pool at a waterpark in Tinley Park, Illinois.

The emergency crew responded to a call at White Water Canyon Water Park Friday afternoon at around 4.20pm after the girl was retrieved from the pool.

Lifeguards and paramedics immediately performed CPR and other life-saving measures at the scene before she was taken to Silver Cross Hospital.

She was declared dead 5.12pm local time at the hospital, according to the Will County Coroners office.

The Tinley Park Police Department is investigating the incident, the office said in an update.

An autopsy will be performed on Saturday, July 1st 2023. The final cause and manner of death will be determined after police, autopsy, and toxicological reports are completed.

The waterpark remained shut on Saturday and opened on Sunday from 11.30am for members of the public, White Water Canyon Water Park said in a Facebook post.

The cause of the girls death remains unknown.

The Tinley Park District which manages the waterpark extended condolences to the family.

The Tinley Park-Park District Board Commissioners and entire Park District staff extend our heartfelt condolences to the family who lost their loved one yesterday. Our thoughts are with them at this difficult time, it said.

The girl arrived at the water park with at least three adults, reported CBC News. It said the girl is suspected to have died from drowning but the park district has not revealed how long the girl was underwater before she was first noticed by lifeguards.

The incident comes just two days after a six-year-old boy died at Fun-Plex Waterpark in Omaha, Nebraska. The boy from Sioux City, Iowa died after drowning in a pool in the waterpark on 25 June, the family said according to a GoFundMe page.
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Debris from the Titan was brought ashore by deep-sea robots on Wednesday as the US Coast Guard continues recovery operations following the subs catastrophic implosion.

The Titans wreckage was seen for the first time in pictures after the Coast Guard announced on 22 June that ROVs (remotely-operated vehicles) found its chambers in a sea of debris 1,600ft from the bow of the Titanic, roughly 12,000ft below the ocean surface.

Pelagic Research Services, the company that operated the ROV that made the previous debris findings, said on Wednesday that its team had successfully completed off-shore operations and was now in the process of demobilisation after 10 days of work. The company said a press conference will be held later in the day.

Photos from the wharf show what appear to be several pieces of the submersible being lifted from the ship, including the nose cone with its distinctive circular window. The pieces were unloaded from the American ships Sycamore and Horizon Arctic at a port in St Johns, Newfoundland.

The US Coast Guard declined to comment on the investigation or the return of debris to shore. Representatives for the National Transportation Safety Board and Transportation Safety Board of Canada (TSB), which are both involved in the investigation, also declined to comment.

We are not able to provide any additional information at this time as the investigation is ongoing, said Liam MacDonald, a spokesperson for the TSB said.

The Coast Guard announced just hours later that presumed human remains had been found on the sea floor. They will now be formally analysed.

The CEO of the company that operated the Titan, Stockton Rush, British billionaire Hamish Harding, renowned French diver Paul-Henri Nargeolet and Pakistani businessman Shahzada Dawood and his 19-year-old son Suleman were aboard the Titan when it imploded last week.

The submersible lost contact with its mothership Polar Prince just one hour and 45 minutes into its descent to the wreck of the Titanic on 18 June, sparking a frantic four-day search. Canadian, American and French marine authorities and experts combed large portions of the ocean hoping to find signs of life, before the tragic developments on 22 June.

Photos shared by the Associated Press showed what appeared to be several pieces covered with white tarps being unloaded from the American ships Sycamore and Horizon Arctic at a port in St Johns, Newfoundland. (AP)

The submersible lost contact with its mothership Polar Prince just one hour and 45 minutes into its descent to the wreck of the Titanic on 18 June (AP)

(Reuters)

The Coast Guard said last week that the US Navy had detected sounds that matched an implosion or explosion sometime after the sub vanished and before rescue efforts were launched. Rescue efforts continued at the time because the information was not definitive, the Coast Guard said.

An international group of agencies is now investigating what may have caused the submersible to implode, and US maritime officials say theyll issue a report aimed at improving the safety of submersibles worldwide.

(REUTERS)

Debris from the Titan submersible, recovered from the ocean floor near the wreck of the Titanic, is unloaded from the shore (AP)

An international group of agencies is now investigating what may have caused the submersible to implode (AP)

The Coast Guard said over the weekend that salvage operations were ongoing, but recovery of the bodies will be difficult due to the unforgiving condition on the ocean floor. A final report will be issued by the International maritime Organisation.
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Three camp counsellors in Connecticut were injured in an attack by a rabid bobcat this weekend.

The three adults were leading a group of nine youth campers at the Selden Neck State Park in Lyme on Friday.

The attack took place around 2am when one of the counsellors was sleeping in a hammock, the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection told FOX 61.

The man, and two additional adults, subsequently killed the bobcat, Deep River Fire Department Chief Tim Lee said.

The bobcat tested positive for rabies at a state public health laboratory, according to the New York Times.

The adults and children were transported by boat to Deep River town by fire officials following the incident.

Emergency services from the neighbouring towns of Essex, Lyme and Valley Shore were requested

The three adults who came into contact with the bobcat were treated at Middlesex Hospital in Middletown.

Were out in the woods, we talk about the various things that can go on in the woods, different scenarios that can happen. Our instructors all go out with a wilderness first responder certificate, supervisor Scott Basile told Fox.

The three adult counsellors and nine minors were transported to Deep River town by fire officials after they encountered a rabid bobcat in the early morning hours of Friday. (Deep River Fire Department)

The camp trip was part of a state-funded Wilderness School program, which provides expeditions to individuals ages 13-21 who have been in the foster care system. According to the website, the program has a prevention, intervention and transition focus.

Due to [the counsellors] courageous and outstanding efforts, the safety of the youth was maintained, and they were not harmed, a spokesperson for the Connecticut Department of Children and Families Wilderness School told CNN.

No minors were injured during the attack.
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President Joe Biden will travel to the UK next week for two days ahead of a Nato summit in Vilnius, Lithuania.

Mr Biden will meet King Charles and Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, the White House said in a brief statement on Sunday. Buckingham Palace confirmed the news.

President Biden is scheduled to travel to the United Kingdom, Lithuania, and Finland from July 9-13. President Biden will first travel to London, United Kingdom for engagements with King Charles III and Prime Minister Rishi Sunak to further strengthen the close relationship between our nations, said White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre.

She added: The President will then travel to Vilnius, Lithuania from July 11-12 to attend the 74th NATO Summit. On July 13, President Biden will visit Helsinki, Finland for a U.S.-Nordic Leaders Summit. More details about the trip will be announced soon.

Mr Bidens first meeting with King Charles comes soon after the coronation of the British monarch, which he did not attend. First Lady Jill Biden and granddaughter Finnegan represented the US at the historic event. The US president last was in Europe in mid-April to mark the 25th anniversary of the Good Friday Agreement, and met with Irelands prime minister. He and the first lady travelled to London for the funeral of the late Queen last September.

Mr Biden spoke with Mr Sunak and other European leaders last week in the wake of the armed rebellion in Russia by the mercenary army Wagner Group. At the upcoming Nato summit, leaders including Mr Biden and Mr Sunak are expected to discuss Ukraines bid for entry.

The British Prime Minister, who is facing waves of political blows at home, travelled to Washington DC last month where he met with the president at the White House.
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Former Vice President Mike Pence was a surprise guest this weekend at a rally in Paris, France, hosted by Iranian dissidents in support of overthrowing Irans regime.

Mr Pence, whos running in the increasingly-crowded 2024 Republican primary, railed against the authoritarian government in Tehran and what he claimed were efforts by the Biden administration to revive the 2015 nuclear accord between Iran, the US, and several European countries. That deal was abandoned by the Trump administration who accused Tehran of violating the deal in spirit.

Now, a new administration is threatening to unravel all of the progress we made in marinalising the tyrannical regime in Tehran, Mr Pence claimed.

They are working overtime to restore the Iran Nuclear Deal, putting Tehran back on the fast track to obtaining nuclear weapons. The Independent has reached out to the White House for comment on those comments.

He also claimed that Iran could develop a nuclear weapon in a year if sanctions were rolled back and the 2015 deal snapped back into place.

However, the Biden administration has shown no signs, at least publicly, of reigniting the abandoned agreement.

If there was any possibility of restarting Iran negotiations, those would now have likely hit a roadblock with the suspension of Rob Malley, Bidens special envoy to Iran, over an internal State Department review into whether he mishandled classified material.

Sources with knowledge of the situation described Mr Malley as a proponent of the 2015 Iran nuclear deal to The Independent.

The State Department has refused to confirm in recent weeks whether talks regarding the nuclear deal are ongoing, and has only said that Mr Malleys status is under review.

Pence appeared at the annual event hosted by the National Council of Resistance of Iran (NCRI) just days after an unannounced visit to Ukraine to meet President Volodymyr Zelensky.

The dissident groups event went off without a hitch and was attended by thousands despite an initial refusal by the French government to allow the group a permit for an outdoor rally. That decision was later reversed by a French court.

Authorities had warned that the threat of a terror attack necessitated the rallys cancelation. NCRIs previous events in Paris have faced similar threats including in 2018 when a diplomat working for Irans government and three others were arrested and later convicted of a bomb plot.

The former vice presidents European trip comes as his bid for the White House has yet to clear double-digit levels of support in any major polling, though he is likely to qualify for at least one presidential debate.
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Mike Pence cheered the end of affirmative action in US colleges and universities on Sunday in the wake of the Supreme Courts ruling outlawing the practice.

The former vice president discussed the issue on CBSs Face the Nation and said that the time for policies aimed at improving outcomes for minority students in general had passed. A candidate for the 2024 Republican presidential nomination, Mr Pence is up against his former boss, Donald Trump, and other conservatives like Florida Governor Ron DeSantis and former UN Ambassador Nikki Haley.

His comments came as activists and authorities in the higher education field vowed to keep fighting to ensure that diversity would remain a core value in student recruiting.

Fundamentally, do you believe that there are racial inequities in the education system in the United States? asked host Margaret Brennan.

I really dont believe there is [racial inequality in US schools]. I believe there was, Mr Pence said.

I mean, its  there may have been a time when affirmative action was necessary simply to open the doors of all of our schools and universities, but I think that time has passed.

His response drew backlash on Twitter with many questioning whether Mr Pences children had attended schools and colleges with diverse student bodies.

The three Pence children, Michael, Charlotte and Audrey, attended Purdue, DePaul, and Yale Universities.

The Supreme Court ruled on Thursday that universities and colleges may not consider race as a specific factor when choosing to admit individual students.

They may, however, continue to take into account how race plays into the individual experiences that those prospective students describe in their applications, such as in personal essay prompts.

[T]he student must be treated based on his or her experiences as an individualnot on the basis of race, wrote Chief Justice John Roberts for the majority.

The suit was brought on behalf of a group of Asian American students who argued that they were discriminated against by admissions staff at Harvard University.

Critics of the ruling say it will gut efforts to improve representation of minority students in college classes. College enrollment rates remain noticeably lower among Black and Hispanic students compared to white and Asian American students.

In addition, an analysis of US education data has shown that about 40 per cent of Black children attend schools where 90 per cent or more of the students are nonwhite.

President Joe Biden responded to the ruling on Thursday after news of the decision broke, telling reporters simply: This is not a normal court.
 Close Trump shares threatening fan-made video

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Donald Trump could be indicted by a grand jury investigating his efforts to overturn the 2020 election and the January 6 Capitol riot by Friday.

The Independent learned that a possible indictment could be handed down as soon as this week, charging the former president in his third criminal case.

Mr Trump announced on Tuesday that he had been sent a letter by special prosecutor Jack Smith informing him that he is the target of a grand jury investigation.

The target letter cites three statutes under which he could be charged including conspiracy to commit offence or to defraud the United States, deprivation of rights under colour of law and tampering with a witness, victim or informant, multiple outlets reported.

William Russell, a former White House aide who now works for the Trump presidential campaign and spent much of January 6 with the then-president, is believed to have testified before the grand jury on Thursday.

The former president was given until today to report to the Washington, DC, federal courthouse but with a midnight deadline is not expected to appear.

Instead, he shared a fan video on Truth Social with a threatening mob boss feel using audio featuring an expletive and lifted from comments he made in 2020 on Iran.
TASHKENT, Uzbekistan, July 2. Saudi Arabia and Uzbekistan have assessed the implementation of projects in the field of green hydrogen as one of promising spheres for cooperation, Trend reports.

The issue was discussed at an online meeting between Minister of Investments, Industry, and Trade Laziz Kudratov, and Minister of Investment of Saudi Arabia Khalid al-Falih.

The parties discussed the expansion of bilateral cooperation in the investment and trade sectors.

The current status and prospects of joint projects in the energy sector, chemical industry, pharmaceuticals, agriculture, healthcare, infrastructure, and tourism were considered.

With the support of the Saudi Development Fund, an agreement was reached on the implementation of several significant programs in the fields of energy, healthcare, education, water supply, agriculture, and infrastructure development.

Following the talks, an agreement was reached to expedite the implementation of ongoing investment projects and further enhance cooperation in the preparation of new projects.

Meanwhile, earlier this year, Saudi Arabia's ACWA Power has signed an agreement on the development of a $88 million worth green hydrogen project in Uzbekistan. The current portfolio of projects of ACWA Power in Uzbekistan is $7.5 billion.
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Thousands of people turned out for rallies across Australia on Sunday in support of a campaign to recognise the countrys Indigenous people in the constitution ahead of a referendum later this year.

Across several cities in Australia, organisers rallied for the Come Together for Yes campaign which is likely to be held between October and December, local media reported.

Indigenous Australians Minister Linda Burney addressed a crowd at the Brisbane Yes23 event kicking off the day of action on Sunday. She emphasised that a Yes vote would make a much-needed difference to the lives of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

How often do we get the chance to put our shoulder against the wheel of history and give it a bit of a shove? Ms Burney asked. It comes once a lifetime and this is our time. This is about moving Australia forward for everyone.

Reports said that many hundreds of people lined the steps at the Emma Miller Place park on Roma Street to listen to speeches and watch cultural performances.

ABC News quoted Rachel Perkins, the co-founder of the Yes23 campaign as saying that you dont necessarily see it on television. You dont see it in the newspapers, but there are conversations happening around kitchen tables, in sporting clubs, in workplaces around the country. And thats just going to grow.

Prime Minister Anthony Albaneses government is in support of the change while the opposition Liberal-National conservatives have urged a No vote.

On Sunday, an Australian Council of Social Service tweet showed Sydney rally attendees in T-shirts with the words Vote Yes and caps with the words The Uluru Statement, referring to a key document that calls for an Indigenous Voice, Reuters reported.

These community events are opportunities for people to come together and gain valuable information about the importance of a successful referendum later this year, Yes23 campaign director Dean Parkin said in a statement.

Were asking all Australians to walk beside us  vote yes for a better future, a Ngunnawal elder Aunty Violet urged the crowd to vote yes to change Indigenous lives.

At the University of Wollongong, Jaymee Beveridge from the Woolyungah Indigenous Centre told those gathered the campaign was a long game. We are exhausted but we are hopeful warriors, she said.
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The home of a Paris mayor has been raided and set alight while his wife and children were inside sleeping as the city continues to be rocked by riots.

Vincent Jeanbrun, who is in charge of the area of LHay-les-Roses in the southern suburbs, said rockets were also thrown as they fled from the burning house in what hes calling an assassination attempt.

Mr Jeanbrun said his wife and one of his two children, who are both aged under eight, were injured as they fled the building in the early hours of Sunday.

The attack took place at the home of a suburban Parisian mayor (Bel Trew/The Independent)

Last night, a milestone was reached in horror and ignominy, he wrote on Twitter.

My home was attacked and my family was the victim of an assassination attempt.

The mayor was not at home at the time but was instead working at his office.

Mr Jeanbrun also said the attack was a murder attempt of unspeakable cowardice.

A line has been crossed, he said. If my priority today is to take care of my family, my determination to protect and serve the Republic is greater than before.

A car was used to ram through the gates of the familys home before the vehicle was set on fire in an effort for flames to spread to the house, Mr Jeanbrun said in a statement.

His wife, Melanie Nowak, suffered a broken leg when she attempted to flee through rocket fire.

Protests have taken place in different parts of the country (AFP via Getty)

An attempted murder investigation has already been opened, according to Frances minister of the interior Gerald Darmanin. The perpetrators will answer for their heinous acts, he said.

The street outside of the Jeanbruns family home in LHay-les-Roses was closed off by police officers who declined to speak to the media on Sunday evening about what had occurred.

However, residents of the affluent and quiet suburb said they were deeply frightened by the incident and said it was unimaginable in their neighbourhood.

By chance we spoke to the mayor just yesterday and he said there was a problem but we never imagined this. Its very scary and unexpected, said Dominique, 61, who lives 100m away and is a neighbour of the Jeanburns.

He said the mayors wife was still being treated for her injuries in hospital.

They came at 1am and set fire to a car, rammed the house with it while the children were inside, his wife Veronique added, visibly shaken. In all the 20 years we have lived here we have never experienced anything like it. Its terrifying, she added.

Firefighters douse the flames of a hotel set on fire during protests in Roubaix, northern France (AFP via Getty)

Both said the area had been quiet despite the unrest rocking the rest of country but the mayor had been concerned in recent days as he had come out publicly supporting the need to police the streets.

There is no justification for this act  people have looted shops, burned cars and now done this, attacking a family while children are inside, Veronique added.

Another resident of the area  Michel, 30, a lawyer  said the attack only shored up the belief in these neighbourhoods that a greater police presence was needed. Nobody is safe at the moment and so we live day by day. This area is usually calm but people are jumping on this moment, opportunists to destabilise everything, he added.

The attack took place about 30km (19 miles) away from where a 17-year-old boy was killed, allegedly by a police officer, during a traffic stop on Tuesday in the suburb of Nanterre.

Nahel Merzouks death has triggered widespread riots in France, which resulted in tens of thousands of police officers being deployed to the streets.

His grandmother, Nadia, urged people not to join in the chaos in a desperate plea on Saturday. I want it to stop everywhere, she told TV channel BFM TV.

I tell the people who are rioting this: do not smash windows, attack schools or buses. Stop! Its the mums who are taking the bus, its the mums who walk outside.

Nadia went on to detail just how the tragedy has undone her family. Its over, my daughter no longer has a life, she said.

Anger and unrest quickly spread from the capitals suburbs to other parts of France including Marseille after almost a week since the shooting.

Mounia attended Thursdays march in tribute to her son in Nanterre (Reuters)

Curfews have been enforced in some places and thousands of police deployed to the streets in a bid to stop the chaos, which has included looting and bins being set on fire.

Riots continued for a fifth night on Saturday, with 45,000 police deployed and 719 people arrested across the country by early on Sunday.

Mourners paid tribute at the teenagers funeral in the Parisian suburb of Nanterre on Saturday, near where he died.

Nahels mother, who was identified as Mounia, told French television station France 5 this week about the tragedys impact on her.

(The police officer) saw a little Arab-looking kid, he wanted to take his life, she said. A police officer cannot take his gun and fire at our children, take our childrens lives.

The teenager was of Algerian and Moroccan descent and lived in a suburb in the Vieux-Pont neighbourhood of Nanterre, about 15km from the centre of Paris.

Nadia did not attend the marche blanche, which was organised by her daughter on Thursday night as she didnt want to leave the spot where her grandson died.

French president Emmanuel Macron met with ministers on Sunday evening in a desperate effort to review the situation.
 Close Police clash with rioters as unrest continues for fifth night

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Children as young as 12 or 13 have been detained for attacking law enforcement and setting fires during six nights of violence after the fatal police shooting of 17-year-old Nahel Merzouk in suburban Paris.

The average age of the 3,354 people arrested over the past week was 17, the interior minister Gerald Darmanin said.

In all, 99 town halls have been attacked during the unrest, including an attempt to ram a burning vehicle into the home of lHay-les-Les Roses mayor Vincent Jeanbrun. His wife and one of his young children were injured during the attack, which began at the weekend while they slept.

We saw the real face of the rioters, that of assassins, Mr Jeanbrun said in an emotional speech. France and democracy itself were being attacked in the days of rioting, he said.

Meanwhile, an insulting fundraiser set up for the family of the police officer who shot Nahel has amassed more than 1 million (840,000).

Organised by Jean Messiha, a former adviser to the French far-right politician Marine Le Pen, the appeal has raised far more than the donation page set up for the family of the teenage victim.
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The prime suspect in the Madeleine McCann case had a burglary tool kit that can pick any lock, a witness has claimed.

Helge Bs allegations against Christian B cast fresh doubt over the official theory that the then-three-year-old was kidnapped by someone who climbed through the window of her familys holiday apartment in Portugal 16 years ago.

The 52-year-old, a petty criminal himself, told The Sun on Sunday he took the kit from the Algarve home of Christian B, who was in prison for theft at that time.

Madeleine disappeared in May 2007 while staying with her parents at a holiday apartment in Praia da Luz (PA Media)

He said: I knew from Christian that he uses tools to break into holiday resorts, hotels and holiday homes to steal from tourists.

There were passports on the table. There was all sorts of stuff lying around  cameras, suitcases, everything that tourists have with them. I also found a lock pick set.

You can use it to pick any lock, including security locks.

Helge B, who is now in witness protection, said he informed German police about the kit, which includes 14 black stainless steal picks designed for different door types, according to The Sun on Sunday.

A police source told the newspaper: The German detectives were electrified by the discovery of the tool kit with the lock picks in it. This evidence is now very important to them.

It confirmed a suspicion that theyd had for a long time  that Christian B entered the apartment through the door.

When asked how Christian B could have entered the McCanns holiday apartment, Helge B suggested: Through the door. Easily. He can open any door.

The development has led detectives to conclude the window theory could be a red herring, according to insiders close to the German police probe, reported The Sun on Sunday.

Teams searched a reservoir in the Algarve region in May as part of their investigation (PA)

It is understood police are also investigating the possibility Christian B used car paint to sedate Maddie after being told he had access to the solvent because he had been a mechanic.

Reports the metal window shutters were rolled up and a curtain was blowing in the apartment after Maddie went missing could be explained by the theory her kidnapper did so to avoid inhaling toxic fumes.

Helge B did recently allege to the German outlet Bild that Christian B let slip Maddie didnt scream when she was kidnapped.

The pair crossed paths at a music festival in Spain in 2008, Helge B said, when the topic of Maddies disappearance came up and I said: Anyway, I dont understand how the little one could have disappeared without a trace.

Christian had drunk two or three beers, and he said: She didnt scream.

Christian B allegedly told the witness: She didnt scream (PA) (PA Media)

In what has been described as the most heavily reported missing person case in modern history, Madeleine disappeared in May 2007 while staying with her parents at a holiday apartment in Praia da Luz.

Her parents, Gerry and Kate McCann, had been dining with their friends at a restaurant 55 metres away when they discovered she was missing during a routine check at 10pm.

The case has remained unsolved for 16 years with no body discovered, however German prosecutors have stated their belief that she was killed.

Brueckner was identified as the primary suspect in 2020, with authorities conducting a major search of a remote Algarve reservoir in May as part of their investigation. It is believed that the jailed paedophile had regularly visited the mile-long peninsula and had described it as a little slice of paradise when living near the Praia da Luz resort.

Brueckner has previous convictions for child sexual abuse, drug trafficking and is currently serving a prison sentence in Germany for raping a 72-year-old pensioner.
 Close Head of MI6 says Putin clearly under pressure after Wagner Group uprising

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Russian president Vladimir Putin is the ultimate apostle of payback and is buying time to strike back against Wagner Group chief Yevgeny Prighozin, CIA director William Burns said.

The Wagner mutiny last month was one of the toughest challenges to the Kremlin in decades and exposed some of the significant weaknesses in a system that Putin has built, Mr Burns said.

Putin is someone who generally thinks that revenge is a dish best served cold, he said at the Aspen Security Forum 2023.

In my experience, Putin is the ultimate apostle of payback so I would be surprised if Prigozhin escapes further retribution.

If I were Prigozhin, I wouldnt fire my food taster.

Meanwhile, the US has hit nearly 120 people and entities with new Russia-related sanctions, designed to block its access to electronics and battlefield supplies.

Russias embassy in Washington denounced the sanctions as part of endless attacks by Joe Bidens administration in the context of the hybrid war unleashed by the West against our country.

Elsewhere, US-supplied cluster munitions are in the Ukrainian militarys hands and are being deployed, John Kirby said.
A group of axe-wielding masked robbers have been caught on CCTV snatching boxes of money from cash in transit drivers in Greater Manchester.

The gang carried out a series of armed robberies, with police identifying them by their mode of operation - they would attack the guard with an axe and attempt to cover their tracks by hiring rental cars and wearing balaclavas.

Police identified Paul Dunn, of Hulme, Nathan Kennedy, from Trafford, and Liam McCloy, from Tameside, after money was deposited into Dunns and Kennedys bank account.

The three were handed sentences between six and 14 years.
Steve Barclay has accused junior doctors of "walking away from talks" ahead of this month's upcoming strikes.

A five-day walkout of all junior doctors in England will be held from 13 to 18 July in a dispute over pay, the British Medical Association has confirmed.

The union is campaigning for a wage rise of 35 per cent, which would restore pay to 2008 levels.

Speaking to Sky News, the health secretary accused junior doctors of "refusing to move" during talks.

"It was the junior doctors sadly who walked away from the discussions and called a further strike," he added.
Dramatic footage shows the moment a rollercoaster swayed after a crack was found in one of its support beams.

Carowinds, an amusement park in North Carolina, closed the Fury 325 ride on Friday (30 June) following the discovery.

The ride is advertised on the park's website as the tallest, fastest, longest giga coaster in North America" that crosses into both North Carolina and South Carolina.

Footage shows the beam bending with the top of it visibly detached as cars with passengers sped by.
The drinks giant is in a row with rapper Sean Combs  but a fall-off in US spirits is of a lot more concern to investors

MOSCOW, RUSSIA - 2023/04/19: A bottle of Swedish vodka, Absolut, is seen on a shelf of an upper-class grocery store, Azbuka Vkusa, in Moscow. The maker of the Swedish Absolut vodka brand announced that it would completely discontinue sales of Absolut vodka to Russia. The Absolut company and its parent organization, Pernod Ricard, reportedly faced criticism in Sweden for exporting their vodka to Russia while some other brands ceased to trade with the country. (Photo by Vlad Karkov/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images)

European spirits players, including Jameson-owner Pernod Ricard, continued to underperform in the broader US spirits market in the year to date. Photo: Getty

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - MAY 01: Diddy attends The After 2023 on May 01, 2023 in New York City. (Photo by Johnny Nunez/WireImage)

Combs claimed Diageo had 'typecast' their co-owned DeLeon tequila brand, as well as Ciroc vodka on which he collaborated with the company and treated them as 'black brands'. Photo: Getty

Guinness owner and alcohol group Diageo has been at odds with a bad boy.

Last month, Sean Combs, also known as rapper P Diddy, who had a string of hits through the 1990s and early 2000s, including Ill Be Missing You and Bad Boy For Life, alleged racial discrimination by the drinks giant in a lawsuit filed by his company.

Combs claimed Diageo had typecast their co-owned DeLeon tequila brand, as well as Ciroc vodka on which he collaborated with the company and treated them as black brands that should be targeted to urban consumers.

Last week, Diageo categorically denied the claims by Combs. It added in a response filed in New York that he had made false and reckless allegations, including numerous defamatory and disparaging accusations of racism on the part of Diageo and certain of its senior executives.

Diageo added Combs had left us no choice but to move to dismiss his baseless complaint and end our business relationship.

Diageo categorically denied the claims by Combs

But a legal battle with a famous American rapper-turned entrepreneur is not the only thing keeping Diageo, which also distils the Dublin-based Roe & Co whiskey brand, busy Stateside.

According to a recent analyst note by investment bank JP Morgan, the US spirits industry faces a more volatile and potentially less buoyant demand environment following two years of solid growth.

The note added that European spirits players, including Jameson-owner Pernod Ricard, continued to underperform in the broader US spirits market in the year to date, partly driven by their lower exposure to the fast-growing ready-to-drink category.

Indeed, JP Morgan also recently flagged how Diageos first-half results for 2023 disappointed some investors due to a reported 2pc growth in organic sales in the US spirits sector.

So what next for the London-listed alcohol giant in America? Can it get back on track in the eyes of its backers?

While the analysts at JP Morgan said they expect the US market to decelerate, they flagged Diageos results might not disappoint in the second half of the year. The analysts said recent data meant they estimated Diageo was nearly in line with current market expectations, with it a solid performer in the US spirits sector when excluding ready-to-drink..

European spirits players, including Jameson-owner Pernod Ricard, continued to underperform in the broader US spirits market in the year to date. Photo: Getty

Despite this, JP Morgan lowered its price target to 40 (46) from 45, valuing shares at a roughly 5pc premium to the international spirits sector.

Analysts at Barclays were more positive than those at JP Morgan.

Barclays said that while market expectations for US shipments were bearish, Diageos overall strength across its various geographies would help the company.

More specifically, we expect European trading to continue to be robust, supported by continued momentum in Latin America, as well as bright spots in Asia and Africa, the analysts said.

With analysts expecting a US slowdown in spirits, investors will hope Diageos share price can remain frothy

Part of its positivity on the African market for Diageo was bolstered by Guinness Nigeria, which bucked market trends when it grew despite negative trading more generally there.

Despite the positivity, Barclays did lower its price target for Diageo to 47.20 from 48.90. It is currently trading at 33.28.

With analysts expecting a US slowdown in spirits, investors will hope Diageos share price can remain frothy. The alcohol giants battle with rapper Combs is not centre stage for investors just yet.
Costs sought include for Brosnans inquiry into a pending lawsuit between Futures Group and the US Department of Defence

Brosnans lawyers claimed Futures was trying to 're-litigate' an issue already decided by the court. Photo: Brian Gavin/Press 22

Ex-Kerry Group boss Denis Brosnan has challenged claims made by his former son-in-laws company in a long-running US court case as the two sides row over his legal expenses  including for Brosnans investigations into a pending lawsuit the US tech company has with the US Department of Defence.
The National Bank of Bahrain (NBB) said it has been awarded the Elite Quality Recognition Award by JP Morgan for its exceptional performance in individual US Dollar transfers for the calendar year 2022.

The award recognises the banks achievements in best-in-class Straight-Through Processing (STP) rates with a 99.37% STP rate based on J.P. Morgans internal data., said NBB in its statement.

Sherif Abdel Salam, Executive Director and Head of GCC & Turkey FIG of JP Morgan, presented the award to NBB Group Head of Coverage Ali Abdulkarim and Head of Bank Operations Nabeel Mustafa.

On the top recognition, Mustafa said: "The achievement of 99.37% STP rate was due to our continuous efforts in investing in technologies and enhancing processes and training plans. The award is a testament to our ongoing efforts to provide our customers with high-quality business performance and improve our service levels across our money transfer operations."

Since 1997, JP Morgan has been presenting awards in recognition of outstanding efforts in best Straight-Through Processing (STP).

As the leading national bank with a commitment to achieve the Kingdoms Vision 2030, NBB maintains an array of quality services positioning it as a regional leader in the industry.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, July 2. Iranian Foreign Ministry advises its citizens to refrain from visiting France due to protests in Paris, Spokesman for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the country Nasser Kanani said in a statement, Trend reports.

As the Ministrys Telegram channel writes, he urged compatriots living in France not to leave their homes unless absolutely necessary and to avoid areas where clashes are taking place.

The protests began after the murder of a 17-year-old teenager who disobeyed an order of the traffic police in the Parisian suburb of Nanterre in the province of Ile-de-France.
Its almost the Fourth of July folks, and for you lovely Irish readers, that means its a regular Tuesday  but for this transplanted American, the date evokes all sorts of emotional memories.

I remember the small town parades in Farmland, Indiana where I grew up or in LaPorte, Indiana where both sets of grandparents lived and where we often visited over the national holiday. High school bands marched, inevitably playing The Stars and Stripes Forever by John Philip Sousa. Firefighters strode alongside their fire engine with lights flashing. We kids pleaded for the driver to blare its siren. Sometimes they would and we would cheer. Local politicians, perched on the backs of opened convertibles, waved and tossed candy toward the spectators lining the streets. The grownups would wave small red, white and blue flags handed out by parade organisers back to the politicians in response while we kids scrambled to scoop up the scattering of candy.

Later in the afternoon, I recall gathering at my Grandpa and Grandma Londons house. My dad would manage the hamburgers and hotdogs on the grill while we kids splashed around in a plastic kiddie pool. When it began to get dark, we lit sparklers and fluttered them around laughing as the pink and bluish flames made streaks in the air. Mom would call us into the car filled with blankets and snacks and wed all head over to the fairgrounds to try and stake out a piece of ground big enough to stretch out and lay down so we could look up to the sky and wait for the firework show about to take place overhead.

When night became dark enough, the first rocket sound shot forth and crowd-fulls of ooohs and aahhs were said collectively from the hundreds of people gathered together; in sync with each colourful explosion bursting overhead.

Wed return home late. Sleepy but satisfied.

Like the various sizes and hues of fireworks, heres a festive display of workplace reminders.

The Power of Moments

I had the pleasure of meeting Dan Heath at the Workhuman conference I was chairing in London earlier this month. An academic based in the US along with his brother Chip, hes one-half of a best-selling writing duo of business books. The Power of Moments is the name of one of those tomes and it was also the focus of his keynote speech.

He kicked off by talking about summer holidays and for each person to think back to a beloved memory.

And, as with my recollections of family Fourth of Julys, it wont surprise you that none of you remember every single detail. You might picture the hotel or the beach or a meal. Its always moments. You didnt think about how long it took to get from the taxi to the hotel or what you ate on the plane because, of course, its only and always  the moments. Psychologists call this duration neglect. When time passes, we are only left with moments.

In the business world, creating the best moments for your team-members doesnt take five stars, it requires four elements.

Elevation

These moments spark joy, delight, and surprise. Power-up your meetings with pops of the unexpected and watch engagement soar like fireworks.

Insight

Rather than inform your team that something isnt working or needs to be transformed, find a way to help them discover it for themselves. Deciding to change always comes with less resistance and friction to implementation than when people are simply directed.

Pride

How often do you celebrate moments of accomplishment? Celebrating in groups rather than quietly singling out an individual is shown to be beneficial to team productivity and morale.

Sharing with more people gives the others who are not directly being feted, a chance to join in the overall sense of pride and spirit.

Connection

When we create moments, we forge connections. Striving toward making peak moments deepen our ties to other people in the workplace and any place.

Importance of Transparency

Theres a lot of news at the moment about pay transparency. No matter where you work, research consistently shows its a good thing that creates a happier and fairer environment for employees.

The downside comes obviously, as Tomasz Tadeusz Obloj, associate professor at the Kelley School of Business at my alma mater of Indiana University says, when wage transparency reveals discrepancies. Those can be costly in terms of decreasing morale, increasing mobility and politicking, and so on.

The Investment in Relationships

Like my family gathered at the Fourth of July, its essential to seek every opportunity to go beyond the transactional processes and invest more in essential relationship building.

According to Gallup polling from the US, UK and Ireland last year, only one in four said they feel connected with their culture while only one in three said they feel they belong. So, lets recommit to making memorable moments every day. In a good way.

Write to Gina in care of SundayBusiness@independent.ie 

With corporate clients in five continents, Gina London is a premier communications strategy, structure and delivery expert. She is also a media analyst, author, speaker and former CNN anchor. @TheGinaLondon 885
The iconic Living Bridge at the University of Limerick which climbed over 100 places to 426th in the QS rankings. Photo: Getty Images

From scams and tech industry layoffs to AI concerns and too much screen time, theres no shortage of things to worry about in tech.

But for those of us in Ireland, there are reasons to be cheerful, too. Genuinely. Here are five of them.

1. Dublin solidifying its US HQ lead in Europe

According to a detailed piece of research from Irish-American venture capital company Frontline last week, Dublins top position as a US tech hub in Europe has wedged in even further. The Frontline report, based on analysis of hundreds of US software firms, shows that Dublin is preferred over almost all other EU cities combined when it comes to choosing a landing city for expansion into Europe. The reason, the report says, is a combination of taxes, regulation and pre-existing clusters of multinational software companies in the UK and Ireland which allow for hiring. Its simply easier to hit the ground running in Dublin, the US tech sector is saying.

For those who worry about the fragility of corporate taxes from booming US tech firms, this could provide important context for what we might expect in the medium term.

Oddly, Dublin is nowhere near as big a startup hub as Berlin, Paris or a handful of other European cities. But that doesnt matter, the report says: Dublin now has a seemingly unassailable lead as an EU HQ destination for American tech, even its still way behind the outright European leader, London.

2. Irish universities rising in the rankings

Ask any big tech executive what they value as a long term indicator of a countrys likely performance in tech and a highly-performing third level sector will almost always be close to the top. So last weeks stellar performance by almost all Irish universities in the prestigious global QS rankings has to be chalked up as a decent day in the parish. Trinity College rose to 81st in the world, putting it in the outer suburbs of US Ivy League institutions. Its an incredible result.

UCD, too, rose 10 places to 171st, cementing its place as a bona fide elite university. UCC broke into the top 300 while the University of Limerick had the biggest single rise, climbing over 100 places to 426th. To be clear, rankings can be fickle and just because this years results  which can depend as much on external sentiment as actual achievement  are excellent, it doesnt mean that Irish third level institutions arent cash-strapped (they mostly are, relative to high-performing US, European and Asian peers) or in need of serious investment. But this was a good week.

3. Sign of light in the scam call epidemic

Whats the most downright annoying element of tech in our lives? The RTE Player? Weak mobile signals? Theres a good chance that its the glut of scam calls and texts, claiming to be from the likes of eFlow, the Revenue, Amazon, An Post and countless others.

Now, finally, there are signs of genuine action from Irish operators and authorities about it.

Under new Comreg proposals, operators such as Vodafone, Three and Eir will not only be encouraged, but required to implement effective blocking measures on scam operators.

This will mainly take the form of a number of technical blocking initiatives and protected registries.

4. Broadband: Ireland approaching blanket ubiquity

Remember when lack of broadband was a crisis that dominated headlines almost every week? Remember the outrage and the Oireachtas hearings? Those days really do seem to be fading away. According to the latest figures from the National Broadband Plan, 167,000 of the 569,000 homes, farms and businesses in rural and poorly-covered parts of Ireland are now within the footprint of the state-funded scheme.

Thats being supplemented by a huge private-sector rollout from the likes of Eir, Siro and Virgin Media. Not to be pollyanna-ish about this, but the scale of it shouldnt be understated. Ireland has already moved to the upper quadrant of broadband availability in Europe. Within the next three to four years, it will likely be number one by some distance. The lack of howling over broadband, and all of the utility it brings, says a lot.

5. Calmness gradually replacing hysteria

We can be thankful that the national, if perhaps not the international, tone discussing the role of tech in our lives has calmed down from some of hysteria we fell for a few years ago. No, 5G wont give you cancer. No, smartphones wont destroy young people.

To be sure, we have concerns about AI but there is a feeling that weve seen this horror movie before. And its not quite as scary as the first time.
Results show little desire for change, but public remain far more concerned with housing and cost of living

The decline in support for Fine Gael from 20pc to 19pc falls within the margin of error in this months Sunday Independent/Ireland Thinks opinion poll, but it also reflects another data point in an unexpected trend since the change of Taoiseach in Merrion Street  and is a record low in our seven years of polling the party.

This poll is reminiscent of our first big impact poll in December 2016 when we asked the public an unusual last-minute question about whether they would vote for Fine Gael if the party was led by Leo Varadkar instead of Enda Kenny.

In the follow-up, I was asked to spell out the findings in a series of radio shows, TV programmes and meetings with Fine Gael bigwigs which, Im led to believe, had an impact on the change of leadership that saw Varadkar take over.

Fast forward to 2023 and Fine Gaels long-standing lead over Fianna Fail has disappeared. And not coincidentally, we return to the issue of the Fine Gael leadership.

However, as it stands, Varadkar is perhaps more secure than his partys nadir suggests.

Amid rumours of a challenge, we asked Fine Gael voters who they preferred to lead the party into the next election. In a head-to-head between Varadkar and Simon Harris  the rival most recently tipped by Fine Gael sources as his successor  50pc opted for Varadkar and 28pc favoured Harris while a non-negligible 23pc opted either for Not sure or Neither of the above.

One could argue there may be voters out there who may come in to support Fine Gael if there was a change of leadership or, indeed, that there were more viable alternatives to Harris.

Either way, given the level of support for Varadkar among Fine Gael voters, a change of leadership would invariably lead to quite the divided party.

Record lows are like buses, it seems. The Labour Partys 2pc in this poll is also its lowest level of support in our seven years of polling.

That Labour has struggled to make an impact since 2016 is well documented. The partys standing seems to be a product of an environment it struggles to influence.

It is worth highlighting the fact Ivana Bacik is still relatively popular. Her approval rating at 32pc is still higher than the leaders of Aontu and the Green Party. A story similar to that of her predecessor, Alan Kelly.

What both parties would benefit from is a clear understanding of the economic undercurrent of Irish politics today.

For example, the recent rise and fall of Sinn Fein in the past year perfectly tracks the rise and fall in the severity of cost-of-living concerns, which have not totally gone away. While the RTE media storm rolls on, the top three issues remain as before: housing, cost of living and healthcare.

These bread-and-butter concerns reflect a population that earns a median individualised income of 26,257 (or household income of 46,999).

To spell that out, half of the adult population earn an annual income of less than this 26,257. While just 3pc earn 100,000 or more, figures in sharp contrast to the those in RTE being discussed at the national level last week.

This is a critical undercurrent of the RTE story and the continued appetite for it.

There is a sense of a lack of fairness in the distribution of incomes, especially where exorbitant incomes are paid for by the public. When asked whether there should be a 250,000 cap on public sector pay, 78pc agreed, while 77pc disagreed with the findings of the recently published independent report on end-of-term bonuses for senior public servants.

One can easily dismiss public attitudes as not appreciating the competition for top talent in the labour market.

However, the public are not as unrealistic as might be alluded, with a relatively balanced 40pc believing Patrick Kieltys 250,000 is about right, compared with 52pc believing it is somewhat or far too much.

Indeed, if you were to estimate the median figure for what the public believe RTE top talent salaries should be capped at, you would arrive at a figure of between 150,000 and 200,000  a figure that only a handful at RTE exceed.

While these salaries in the public sector only have a small impact on the bottom lines of such organisations, they do undermine any sense of leadership from the top on the issue of cost control while simultaneously incentivising an overly cautious leadership in organisations in desperate need of a significant upheaval.
At the Shein launch of its EMEA HQ in Dublin were, from left to right: Shiwei Yu, country manager Ireland; Cui He, director for Europe; Leonard Lin, global head of government relations; Minister Simon Coveney; and Eileen Sharpe, head of growth markets, IDA Ireland. Photo: Maxwells, Dublin
RTE executives said that only Dee Forbes had full knowledge of Late Late presenters agreement

In the absence of Dee Forbes at last weeks Oireachtas committee meetings to discuss the unfolding debacle at RTE, the story begins with Geraldine OLeary.

Commercial director for more than 25 years, she recalled that it was February 2020 when she was first approached about Ryan Tubridys contract.

Renault, her loyal and valued client, was in year two of a three-year contract to sponsor The Late Late Show.

Forbes, RTEs director general, was negotiating a new five-year contract with Tubridy through his agent, Noel Kelly.

She could not recall who came up with the idea to put the invoices through as consultancy fees

The outgoing chief financial officer, Breda OKeeffe, had given her a heads-up that Tubridys contract negotiations were coming to an end.

There was going to be a commercial element to it, and they would talk to me about it, said OLeary.

RTE CFO reluctant to answer when asked about his salary

Forbes came to OLeary in March 2020 with a proposal.

The idea was that I would talk to the sponsor about including some personal appearances by Ryan Tubridy as part of the overall Renault relationship with RTE, OLeary added.

She went to Renault on March 9, 2020 with a proposal  that she said she had no part in negotiating. The Late Late host would do three personal appearances for 75,000 a year. The client said he would consider it, and he would run it through his finance department, she said.

A week later, the country went into Covid-19 lockdown. Renault agreed to sign a contract with Tubridy but it would have to be cost neutral to Renault.

Ideally, I am sure the hope was that Renault would have extra money to pay Ryan Tubridy separately, but it had not, said OLeary.

OLeary told Forbes, who instructed her to issue a credit note to Renault. As the Grant Thornton report for the RTE board said: In effect RTE funded the 75,00 payment to Talent [Tubridy].

In July 2020, Kelly invoiced Renault for 75,000. RTE issued a credit note to Renault for the same amount.

OLeary said she was unaware that Forbes and Kelly had reached an agreement of their own  that if Renault pulled out of the Tubridy contract, RTE would pay the stars 75,000 annual fee.

According to Adrian Lynch, RTEs interim deputy director general, the only evidence of this deal appeared to be a online meeting in May 2020 between Forbes and Kelly. And the only minute of this meeting appeared to be notes taken by a solicitor from the broadcasters legal department who sat in on it.

RTEs July 2020 credit note to Renault crossed the desk of chief financial officer Richard Collins without obstruction.

Collins said he didnt sign off on the credit note; it had already been approved by Forbes and he was copied in on an email, he said.

When he joined RTE in January 2020, replacing the outgoing Breda OKeeffe, he had been briefed on a commercial arrangement RTE was trying to put in place for Tubridy, he said.

To be honest, I did not cop what this was related to, Collins told the Public Accounts Committee (PAC)

John Brady, the Sinn Fein TD, surmised Collins was asleep at the wheel.

Collins protested: The director general was involved in this. I took comfort, from a control point of view, that the director general was looking at this.

He added he had a lot on his plate at that time. He said he was also dealing with Covid-19, the prospect of RTE running out of cash, and two big tax audits.

The pandemic disrupted Tubridys appearances for Renault  although they were honoured later  and in 2021, Renault chose not to renew the contract.

By 2022, Forbes was under pressure to pay Tubridy, according to OLeary, who recalled there was an urgency about it.

OLeary said Forbes asked her if there were any commercial partnership possibilities and I said No.

Then Forbes asked OLeary to liaise with Noel Kelly Management (NKM) to raise the invoices for Tubridy though a barter account used by the commercial department, because the money was not available elsewhere.

According to OLeary: There was no budget available elsewhere. This money [in the barter account] is linked to commercial campaigns and, therefore, sits primarily in the commercial department. Dee Forbes wanted to use that account.

OLeary could not recall who had come up with the idea of putting the invoices through as consultancy fees but suggested that it was either Forbes or Kelly.

When Sinn Fein TD Imelda Munster pressed her several times on what Kelly had told her what the invoices were for  Now, come on now, be truthful.  OLeary agreed she knew they were top-up payments for Tubridy.

What I did know was about how the payment was happening, she said. I did not know that it was designed to conceal Ryan Tubridys earnings. I did not know that.

Kelly sent in two invoices for 75,000 from a UK company, CMS Marketing, to the UK barter company in May and July last year for consultancy fees with no mention of Tubridy.

The Late Late presenter received the payments via his agent, according to the Thornton report.

Collins saw the invoices but did not question them. The first thing is I was not aware that CMS was a company associated with Noel Kelly, he said.

But looking back, he agreed with Brian Stanley, chairman of the PAC, that he should have asked more questions on this.

By March of this year, Tubridy had been paid, Forbes was preparing to retire from RTE, and Deloitte began auditing the broadcasters 2022 accounts.

The 150,000 payments accounted for as consultancy fees jumped out.

On March 7, Collins received a phone call from Deloitte about the invoices from CMS Marketing, asking what they were for. Collins said he would ask the director general and report back.

On March 8, he asked Forbes about the purpose of the two 75,000 payments.

She told me they were consultancy invoices relating to Noel Kelly Management

On March 9, Collins passed on her explanation to Deloitte.

How exactly had Forbes explained the invoices to Collins, TDs wanted to know.

Consultancy invoices relating to services during Covid that Noel Kelly had provided, said Collins.

And later: The services related to how RTE restructured its operations

And later again: He was giving advice to RTE as to how we dealt with sponsors.

Mr Collins is being a bit vague, said Munster at the PAC.

To be honest, I got a high-level response from the director general. Deloitte was not happy with the response I was given, and I cannot and will not go there because

Munster pressed on.

I cannot remember exactly how she explained it, he said, before stating: I probably have notes from then on what it was.

When asked by another TD if he was doing his job effectively, Collins replied: At that stage, she [Forbes] gave what appeared to be a plausible explanation...

Was she being truthful, Social Democrats TD Catherine Murphy asked.

I could not say that she was not being truthful. She gave me an answer. It is not for me to second-guess her. She gave me an answer...

From what Mr Collins knows now Murphy said.

Obviously now, yes, she was not truthful, said Collins.

On March 13, Ryan Tubridy went to the office of RTE director of content Jim Jennings, to tell him he was stepping down from The Late Late Show.

On March 17  St Patricks Day  Deloitte rang Anne OLeary, the head of the RTE boards audit and risk committee, triggering a forensic audit and the bombshell disclosures on June 23 that Tubridys earnings had been understated by 345,000 over five years.

Did Tubridy know what was coming? The timing of his departure did not go unnoticed.

The whole country is talking about this. The coincidence is incredible, said Alan Kelly, the Labour TD, at last weeks PAC meeting.

Did anyone speak to Tubridy, his agent, or anyone belonging to him about what was coming down the line?

Those present assured him that, no they had not  but they could not be sure.

On Wednesday, Lynch said there was no way Tubridy would have known about the concerns raised about his pay before he stepped down.

Then on Thursday, he said it was possible someone had told him.

Munster asked RTEs head of legal, Paula Mullooly, if creating false invoices could be presented as a criminal offence?

No, said Mullooly. We took specific advice on that.

Asked for his opinion of what had transpired, Collins said: Maybe the taxpayer was defrauded, but...

Sinn Fein TD John Brady asked Collins if he had reported this to An Garda Siochana.

No, I have not, said Collins.

Did he intend to?

I would have to take advice on that, said Collins.
Sinead Ryan: Never mind Bakelite phones and cassettes, one day I had to tell my daughter what a cheque was
Years ago, when I felt in need of a good laugh, I used to detour to the Rue des Tongres, which is about a 10-minute walk from the EU quarter in Brussels. It was, and still is, one of Belgiums chicest streets, serving a neighbourhood of very fine houses built in the late 19th and early 20th centuries with riches for the most part looted from the Belgian Congo.
Even masters of the universe are subject to human frailty. So it seems following the publication of claims that Elon Musk, the worlds richest man, has depression. Last week, friends of the tech entrepreneur told the Wall Street Journal that the Twitter owner micro-doses ketamine in order to manage his low mood.
Albert Reynolds was asked to help bid for F1 race in capital. Photo: Part of the NPA and Independent Newspapers Ireland

On the first of May 1981, Ireland was sent into shock when an Aer Lingus flight was hijacked on its short trip from Dublin to London.

The story made international headlines as a former Australian monk, Lawrence 'Larry' Downey, held the Irish plane hostage for almost eight hours. So, what were his intentions?

And how did then Minister for Transport, and later Taoiseach, Albert Reynolds, become an unlikely hero in a story that stretched as far as Iran and the Vatican?

Presenter Siobhan Maguire hears everything about this mysterious tale from Sunday Independent columnist, Sarah Caden.
Passenger in his 20s was critically injured in crash in Fermoy on Saturday

A male passenger in his 20s critically injured on Saturday in a two-car crash in Fermoy, Co Cork, has died in hospital.

The man was a passenger in one of two vehicles involved in the collision at McCurtain Street in Fermoy at 8.40pm on Saturday.

He was rushed to Cork University Hospital in what was described as a critical condition.

A female driver in her 50s was also taken to hospital but with non life-threatening injuries.

A male, in his 30s, who was arrested at the scene of the crash and detained under section four of the Criminal Justice Act has since been charged in connection to the incident and is due to appear before Mallow District Court on Monday morning at 10.30am.

Gardai investigating the fatal collision continue to appeal for witnesses to come forward, in particular any motorists who might have dashcam footage and who were travelling in the area between 8.30pm and 9pm. They are asked to make the footage available to gardai.

Anyone with any information is asked to contact Fermoy Garda station on 025 82100, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111 or any Garda station.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, July 2. President Macron continues to lose control over France as riots continue in the major cities of the country. The current situation looks a lot worse than predicted earlier. And truthfully, this was expected to a certain degree, based on the fact that grievances in French society tend to be exhibited in radical ways. Numerous aspects can be analyzed when looking at the case of protests in France, which illustrate several issues of the national political system.

The latest round of protests erupted after 17-year-old Nahel Merzouk was shot dead during a traffic stop Tuesday morning. The footage shows that one of the two police officers at the scene fired a gun despite not being in immediate danger.

The death of Nahel, a teenager of Algerian and Moroccan descent, shocked the country and sparked protests in several cities against police brutality. The systemic crisis is exacerbated by the fact that police brutality, particularly against people from Northern African ethnic backgrounds, is not a new phenomenon. The issue of social injustices and illegal law enforcement practices can be traced back to the mid-90s when these topics were one of the major themes of independent French movies.

The key questions that we need to answer are what motivates the protesters to continue their fight for their rights and how will it impact France and its political elites, namely President Emmanuel Macron.

Understanding protest motivation

Understanding the motivation for protests is vital to realize how important the fight against injustices is perceived to be for the protesting population.

It is vital to establish that the death of Nahel is not the root cause of the protests. Rather, the fatal incident was a trigger mechanism, which sparked the demonstrations. The cause that led to the eruption of violence is the deep-rooted animosity demonstrated by local law-enforcement agencies when dealing with youth from Algerian and Moroccan backgrounds. The fact that French police try to contain demonstrations via violent measures fuels the protests further.

It is obvious that the latest shooting, as well as earlier incidents, create a perception in people of Northern African heritage that they are being treated differently. This feeling is a very important motivator for protest as it illustrates the lack of feeling of security among parts of the population.

The second reason why the protests continue is more nuanced, yet critical to comprehend because it illustrates that vulnerable segments of the population have limited choice but to continue protesting. Protests against police violence enable people to issue a demand for change outside of formal institutions. This illustrates that there is limited belief in the ability of formal institutions to bring change to the troubling situation, which highlights the government's inability to enact meaningful changes in the past.

There are three additional elements, that justify the protests. First, the crowds actions aim to restore the freedom of vulnerable population groups. Second, the protests promote equality, as they seek to ensure that law-enforcement agencies do not discriminate. Third, the protests give voice to the grievances of the marginalized groups. These elements serve as a counter-argument for the supporters of the French president, who consider the protests illegal.

Interestingly, there is logic in the argument that President Macron needs to resign. In essence, the government is unable to control the situation, which means that it is unable to provide safety for its citizens. In a scenario when the government is not the only party with a license for violence, the social contract between citizens, who surrender some of their individual rights, in exchange for services such as safety provided by the government, is being broken. With this in mind, it is possible to understand why protesters may demand the resignation of the French President.

To be fair, President Macron demonstrated an inadequate reaction to the protest in the initial stage. While the early signs of trouble became visible, the Head of State chose to attend a concert of Elton John with his wife, instead of dealing with the crisis. His choice further contributed to the negative perception that he is unable to deal with the crisis.

Macrons choices  from bad to worse

The situation is looking rather grim at this point. The potential choices of President Macron range from bad to very bad, as there is no good way out of the current crisis. Should he choose to appease the protestors, then he will face a new wave of demonstrations. One particular example that comes to mind is the possibility of renewal of the pension reform protests. This development may happen because people would pressure President Macron to address their grievances as well. Consequently, appeasing the protestors is likely to end the current crisis, yet it will be a catalyst for future protests. One element important to note here is that if President Macron appeases the protestors, then he will legitimize and highlight the effectiveness of the methods utilized by the protestors, which will make future protests in the country more intensive.

However, this is not the worst choice. A riskier way to deal with the crisis is to quell the protests via more violence. The danger here is that it will suppress the grievances of the population for a time, yet this will lead to an outbreak of more violent protests in the future. Additionally, this will lead to significant international criticism, as a large number of countries may see this measure as undemocratic.

The third choice of President Macron is to resign, in a bid to save the country from collapsing. The major problem here is that the French Head of State had a very difficult time in office, both in terms of economic policies and subsequent domestic policy issues. This creates a fertile ground for populism, which will be utilized by far-right and far-left politicians. Macrons presidency was marred by ruinous economic and political choices, and the next generation of decision-makers will use the unsuccessful and highly controversial policies of President Macron as a foundation for their election programs.

The current crisis also gives an excellent opportunity for populist politicians to promote their agenda. In times of crisis, people often look for strong leadership and decisive action. Populist leaders often promise this, positioning themselves as strong, decisive figures who will protect the nation and its people. This will contrast with the stance of President Macron, who, in the eyes of many people, lacks the image of a strong politician capable of addressing the urgent needs of people swiftly.

In retrospect, it is easy to see that President Macrons policies failed in several areas. His foreign policy victories were non-existent, economic policies led to massive protests over the past years, and now we are witnessing the breakdown of society due to the presidents inability to address the key issues. As the protests continue, the French Head of State is running out of time to find a way out of the existing crisis.
Our columnist reveals some key ingredients to help get the maximum luscious effect for your pout

As the sun gets brighter and the weather gets warmer, your smile should too! A simple glossy lip is the perfect complement to summer clothes.

But before we even think of putting anything on our lips, we have to take off any dry, flaky bits by doing a simple trick thats been around forever and is key to glossy lips  a moisturised mouth.

Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour Skin Protectant Cream, 35, boots.ie

Simply buff your lips with an old toothbrush and apply lots of balm or Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour Skin Protectant Cream (35, boots.ie) before swiping on any gloss.

Charlotte Tilbury has launched Airbrush Flawless Lip Blur, 34, charlottetilbury.com

Charlotte Tilbury has launched Airbrush Flawless Lip Blur (34, available on the new Charlotte Tilbury app and charlottetilbury.com). Charlotte described this to me recently as a matte meets moisture lipstick  how clever!

Available in eight shades, I, of course love the iconic Pillow Talk shade lipstick and being a lady of a certain age, love the blur effect it creates as well as how its matte and at the same time moisturising.

The applicator has a diamond-shaped tip, with which the lipstick can be applied precisely, so you dont need a lip liner.

Oh hang on, we were meant to be talking gloss!

Artdeco Plumping Lip Fluid, 14.45, stralabeauty.com

Step forward, please, Artdeco Plumping Lip Fluid (14.45, available in selected salons and private pharmacies nationwide, and stralabeauty.com).

Its optical lifting effect smooths the lips and fills them with a delicate vanilla scent, combining fresh colour with a wet-looking shine.

Its thanks to the modified red pepper extract that provides maximum volume and a plumped, glossy finish.

Dior Addict Lip Glow Oil (42, dior.com)

Next up, the viral sensation that is Dior Addict Lip Glow Oil (42, dior.com) is enriched with cherry oil. It leaves lips coated in a glossy lacquer that is neither sticky nor greasy, so midway between a balm and a gloss really, with the slightest sweet yet minty scent.

YSL Touche Eclat, 36, brownthomas.com

Finally, if you are a femme dun certain age as I mentioned above, to help disguise nasolabial folds or smile lines which I prefer to call them  the vertical lines from the nose to the outer corners of the mouth  grab your YSL Touche Eclat (36, brownthomas.com) and blend it along the deepest part of the crease to achieve that lifting, plumping effect.

Three summer fragrances

e11even Fragrance Oil, 90, Brown Thomas

1 e11even Fragrance Oil, 90, Brown Thomas Cat Deeleys BFF, MUA Amanda Grossman created this secret fragrance oil back in 2005. Now theyve become business partners, bringing us this unisex mood pick-me-up. The rollerball means you can take it everywhere for touch-ups during the day and it can also be used on hair or beards.

Jo Malone London Sakura Cherry Blossom, 65, exclusive to Brown Thomas Dublin.

2 Jo Malone London Sakura Cherry Blossom, 65, exclusive to Brown Thomas Dublin This is a subtle, intimate fragrance experience as its beautiful, citrussy and light. It has a fresh, floral fragrance with notes of bergamot, cherry blossom and rosewood that makes me think of an expensive all-white wardrobe the wearer of this surely has!

Phlur Missing Person, 140, Selfridges.

3 Phlur Missing Person, 140, Selfridges. Now, this delicate delight will make absolutely no impact when you walk into a room! But heres the thing  youll find the compliments coming in quick succession from those immediately around you. The subtle yet comforting scent is inspired by an intimate embrace with someone you love. Aaaaaw!!!
The wife of Coronation Street actor Sam Aston has opened up about suffering two miscarriages within four months, in the interest of breaking the taboo.

Aston, who has played the role of Chesney Brown on the hit show since 2003, married trainee midwife Briony in 2019.

On Saturday, July 1, Briony posted a picture on her Instagram account of a pregnancy test kit that had been edited to read: Not pregnant anymore.

She captioned her post: This is a difficult thing to share, but in the interest of breaking the taboo, Im miscarrying again, the second time in four months... its heartbreaking and its unfair, BUT Im not seeking sympathy, I feel well supported and want others to feel supported too.

And thats why I wanted to post this today, because having people you can talk to and receiving comfort from those who have been through something similar makes the world of difference, she wrote.

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Briony said hearing from other women about the babies they lost made procesing her own grief easier, adding: I dont feel alone at all.

She continued: In fact I feel the opposite of alone, I feel held and heard and I hope that by continuing these difficult conversations about miscarriage and pregnancy loss we open the door for others who will sadly experience loss too.

Sam and Briony share two children, son Sonny James, two, and daughter Daisy, one.

According to the National Health Service, a miscarriage is the loss of a pregnancy during the first 23 weeks. It is estimated that one in eight known pregnancies will end in miscarriage.

According to the NHS, recurrent miscarriages, or losing three or more pregnancies in a row, is less common and affects about one in 100 women.

In the past, stars such as Jessie J, Jennifer Lawrence, Cher, and Sharon Stone have spoken about their experiences of miscarrying.

Jessie J  real name Jessica Cornish  welcomed her first child in May, over one year after suffering a miscarriage in November 2021.

At the time, she said the sadness is overwhelming, adding: I also know millions of women all over the world have felt this pain and way worse. I feel connected to those of you I know and those of you I dont.

Stone has previously revealed she lost nine children to miscarriages, responding to a news story about dancer Peta Murgatroyds miscarriage while her husband was in Ukraine.

Commenting under an Instagram post from People, Stone wrote: We, as females, dont have a forum to discuss the profundity of this loss. I lost nine children by miscarriage.

It is no small thing, physically nor emotionally yet we are made to feel it is something to bear alone and secretly with some kind of sense of failure.

The 65-year-old actor added: Instead of receiving the much needed compassion and empathy and healing which we so need. Female health and wellness left to the care of the male ideology has become lax at best, ignorant in fact, and violently oppressive in effort.
No peace talks until Russia quits our country, says Ukraine

Defiant Zelensky dismisses peace talks any time soon, or at least until former borders are restored

Ukraine's president Volodymyr Zelensky welcomes Spanish prime minister Pedro Sanchez before a meeting in Kyiv yesterday. Photo: Reuters

James Kilner Telegraph.co.uk Sun 2 Jul 2023 at 03:00






Image: Pixabay

Dhaka: Consignments of green chillies have started arriving from India through Bhomra land port in Satkhira. Indian green chillies will be available in the Bangladesh market from July 3, sources said on Sunday.

A total of 60 metric tonnes of green chillies in six trucks -- 10 tonnes each -- arrived in the country around 11:30 am on Sunday, after the end of the holidays marking Eid-ul-Azha.

Bhomra customs supervisor Ifthekaruddin said several trucks of green chillies arrived in the country today morning.

More trucks with the consignment of chillies will enter the country steadily. It will take time.

The price of green chilli in the countrys market was raised abnormally several days before the Eid-ul-Azha.

On 25 June, the government allowed importing this kitchen ingredient in a bid to decrease its skyrocketing price.

Bhomra C&F agent association general secretary ASM Maqsud Khan said six trucks of green chilli entered today. Several more will arrive in the evening. Due to the imports, the price of green chillies will reduce in the local market.

General secretary of the Kitchen Market Traders Association in Satkhira, Abdur Rahim, said the green chilli is now being sold at Tk 400 to Tk 500 per kg in Satkhiras market.

Since the consignments of green chilli have arrived, the price has started falling. It will drop to Tk 50 and Tk 60 per kg within one or two days.

It is to be noted that Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in a recent press conference spoke about the conservation of green chillies in Bangladesh.

From the day after her speech, green chilli disappeared from the market in Bangladesh and the price went beyond the reach of the common man. A turbulent situation is created in the market across the country.

For the past few days, green chillies have been sold in the market for 600 to 1000 BDT. In view of which Bangladesh decided to import green chillies from India.

(With UNI inputs)
Image Credit: UNI

Imphal/IBNS/UNI: Three people were shot dead by armed miscreants in Manipur 's Bishnupur district on Sunday, police said.

The incident happened in Kumbi town. According to sources, there was heavy firing from the nearby hills at Laingoubi, Chandolpokpi, and Soukom areas since Saturday midnight.

People of the area requested the central forces to help them as the firing from the Kuki-dominated hill areas had been going on since May 3.

Around 50000 people living in the foothills and other affected areas have been displaced and are still living in relief camps.

Locals said many people who were guarding the villages were killed. The miscreants repeated firing using sophisticated guns, sniper, and mortar from the hills which made it impossible for the villagers to return.

The villagers said the miscreants also killed cattle and took them away.

Some volunteers now guard the vacated villages as locals fear their houses will be completely burnt. Over 3000 houses have been burnt since the beginning of the present disturbances.

Manipur Governor Anusuiya Uikey also condemned the attack on farmers.

Curfew was still on in most parts of the state, save relaxation of a few hours. The Internet has been suspended since May 3 when the crisis started in the Churachandpur district.
Image: Twitter video grab

Male: The Maldives government has condemned the opposition's action of staging an anti-India demonstration in Maldives.

At the demonstrations that took place on Thursday, some of the protestors wore masks depicting Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, while others held banners that read, India Out, reports Scroll.

The Maldivian government blamed the opposition party's for the demonstration.

The demonstration did not only provoke hatred, but also promote hostility with the objective of tarnishing the countrys long-standing cordial ties with India, the Maldivian government said as quoted by Scroll.

The cause of the protest is still not clear.

The opposition parties in the country have been using the India Out campaign since 2020 to target the government.

The roots of the India Out campaign are in the change in Maldives foreign policy since Ibrahim Mohamed Solih took over as the president in 2018. The previous dispensation led by Abdulla Yameen was seen to have been closer to China than India. During Yameens tenure between 2013 and 2018, Maldives was estimated to have borrowed US$ 1.5 billion (over Rs 12,000 crore) from China, according to a paper published by the Observer Research Foundation, reports Scroll.

In 2018, his [Yameen] government asked India to withdraw its helicopters and operatives from the country, accusing them of espionage and violating sovereignty, the paper noted.
Image UNI

Mumbai: In a sudden political development in Maharashtra, senior Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) leader Ajit Pawar - the nephew of party chief Sharad Pawar - on Sunday split the legislative party and joined the state's NDA ministry with eight other MLAs.

Sixty-three-year-old Ajit Pawar has joined the state's NDA government for the second time since 2019, when he had a short-lived tryst as deputy CM before returning to the NCP fold in two days.

Ajit Pawar, so long the leader of the opposition, took over as the second Deputy Chief Minister (after BJP's Devendra Fadnavis) on Sunday as he was administered the oath by state Governor Ramesh Bais at Raj Bhavan here in the presence of NCP veteran Praful Patel - a longtime close confidant of Sharad Pawar.

Although Patel did not take oath as state minister, there is speculation that he may be inducted into the union ministry.

A few other NCP MLAs will be included in the Shinde ministry soon, Pawar told media persons after taking his oath, and said he took the decision for the development of the country and "to solve the problems of the people of Maharashtra."

He showered praise on Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Shinde, who himself became the chief minister a year back by engineering a similar split in the ruling Shiv Sena after rebelling against the then chief minister and party chief Uddhav Thackeray, claimed 35 out of NCP's 54 MLAs were present in the Raj Bhavan along with Pawar.

In all, the new deputy chief minister enjoyed the support of more than 40 NCP legislators, he said.

After Pawar, Chhagan Bhujbal, Dilip Valse-Patil, Hasan Mushrif, Dhananjay Munde, Dharmaraobaba Bhagwantrao Atram, Aditi Tatkare, Sanjay Bansode and Anil Patil also were sworn in as ministers.

Bhujbal is a leading OBC leader in the state.

Profusely praising Ajit Pawar, Shinde said he has always done the politics of development.

The Chief Minister said now his double engine government - BJP and the Shiv Sena (Shinde) - has a triple engine for the development of the state.

Pawar's joining would give a further boost to the government which was already working for the state's development under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Shinde added.

On the other hand, NCP's Maharashtra Chief Spokesperson Mahesh Tapase termed the developments a part of BJP's Operation Lotus programme.

In a statement, Tapase said all the leaders, workers, district presidents and frontal organisations are with Sharad Pawar.

Over the past couple of months, political circles in the state were agog with speculation about the possibility of Ajit Pawar jumping ship.

Ajit Pawar was said to be unhappy over being sidelined in the party, with Sharad Pawar elevating Supriya Sule and Praful Patel as working presidents.

Recently, Ajit Pawar also wanted to quit as Leader of the Opposition and sought an organisational responsibility, but the party national executive asked him to wait for two months.

(With UNI Inputs)
Twitter video grab

Bern: Swiss police have detained seven people, including six minors, during nightly riots in the city of Lausanne after over 100 rioters attacked shops and police officers, the 20 Minutes newspaper reported on Sunday, citing police.

The reports said that the unrest was sparked by calls on social media to take to the streets amid ongoing protests in neighboring France.

The French riots are now spilling over into Switzerland, specifically in Lausanne. pic.twitter.com/6EdDP2pRFY  Russian Market (@runews) July 1, 2023

The protesters threw stones and at least one Molotov cocktail at the law enforcement officers, the newspaper reported. Nobody was injured, the newspaper added.

Six minor detainees, who are between 15-17 years old, are of Portuguese, Bosnian, Somalian, Georgian and Serbian origin, the 20 Minutes said. The only adult among the apprehended is a 24-year-old Swiss citizen, according to the newspaper.

On Tuesday, 17-year-old Nahel M. was shot dead in the French commune of Nanterre after he had refused to comply with police orders during a traffic stop. The officer who pulled the trigger on the teenager has been charged with voluntary manslaughter and is in custody. The fatal police shooting sparked riots across the country.

Violent protests have continued throughout the week, with injures and detentions reported every day.

French media said on Saturday, citing the interior ministry, that 1,311 were detained over the past night, including 406 in greater Paris.

In addition, 1,350 cars and 234 buildings were set on fire, according to reports.

(With UNI inputs)
Pixabay

Police in Pakistan's Balochistan region have ordered a combing operation for the arrest of 13 prisoners who escaped from a district jail in Chaman on the first day of Eid.

A jailer and other officials were suspended following the incident.

Home and Tribal Affairs Minister Ziaullah Langove has ordered a probe into the incident.

Officials told Dawn News that 17 prisoners kept in the district jail were facing trial in cases related to heinous crimes and added that the suspects escaped after attacking the jail and security staff when they were brought out of their cells for morning prayers.

The prisoners attacked the jail staff, opened fire after snatching a weapon from a security guard and managed to injure police personnel, Naeem Achakzai, Chamans senior superintendent of police, told Dawn.

He added that with the help of weapons snatched from police, they also broke the locks of the gate and escaped.
Image: Pixabay

A survey has shown that nearly one year after the Islamic Emirate returned to power in Afghanistan, 'life was worse for Afghans than at any point in the past decade -- or for anyone else on the planet'.

"Afghanistan has ranked as the least positive country in the world every year since 2017, apart from 2020 when Gallup could not survey the country because of the pandemic," the report was quoted as saying by Tolo News, adding that "after dropping to a global record low of 32 in 2021, the situation was not much different a year later. The countrys score of 34 in 2022 is the lowest in the world."

The Gallup surveys taken in July and August 2022 focused on five negative experiences and it was conducted across 142 nations.

Mental security requires stability, law enforcement, facilitating citizen freedoms and creating services such as employment, education and work that can bring the freedoms of citizens, and when the freedoms come, mental security can be maintained and expanded, Hujatullah Merzae, a lecturer, told Tolo News.

Kabul residents said they are facing unemployment and poverty as the main challenges.

"Even though I am an educated person, now I collect bottles. This should be considered by our elders -- those who are above us -- what will be the effect on a person's brain when an educated person collects bottles to make ends meet?" Mohammad Nayeem, a street vendor, told the news portal.

We are totally crazy, I am mentally crazy, I don't understand where I am these days and where I am working, this is how it is, what else can we do, poverty and misery are everywhere, Ahmad Zia, a Kabul resident, told Tolo News.

The Taliban government of Afghanistan, however, rejected the report.

"We reject this Gallup poll ... which is not valid. In the past, Gallup always made propaganda against Afghanistan, Zabiullah Mujahid, spokesman of the Taliban government, told Tolo News.
Alexandria prosecution conducted an investigation after more than 50 people, mostly children, inhaled Thursday chlorine gas that leaked from a swimming pool at a club in the district of Sporting.
Image: Pixabay

Acute water shortage in Pakistan's Karachi has left people suffering hard even at a time when the city was celebrating Eidul Azha.

While the reports of acute shortage of water kept on pouring from almost every locality of the city, insiders in the Karachi Water and Sewerage Board said that it was not possible to fix the problems of short supply mainly due to decades-old infrastructure, parts of its running for over 40 years, reports Dawn News.

The localities worst-hit by acute shortage of water include the densely populated Orangi Town, Baldia Town, Gadap, North Karachi, Nazimabad, North Nazimabad, Federal B Area, Gulistan-i-Jauhar, Gulshan-i-Iqbal, Malir, Landhi, Korangi, Shah Faisal Colony, parts of Clifton under the municipal control of the Karachi Metropolitan Corporation, Lyari etc where residents complain that they get less than 60 per cent of water allotted to them.

The water shortage also persisted in the salubrious parts of the city such as Defence Housing Authority and Clifton, which falls under the administrative and municipal control of the Cantonment Board Clifton, as people said they had no option but to buy water tankers to meet their requirement, the newspaper reported.

Meanwhile, the water tanker rate has also increased with the price now standing at Rs5,000-Rs5,500.

A KWSB engineer, who did not wish to be named, told Dawn News that the water boards dilapidated transmission and distribution system was not capable to cater for the needs of people as it had completed the designated economic life leading to losses of up to 42 per cent.

A resident of Clifton told Dawn News that despite regularly paying bills water flowed through the main pipelines in her locality once a week that too for only 10 minutes.
Guru Purnima 2023 Date & Puja Timing: Guru Purnima is celebrated on a full moon day. As the name suggests, is celebrated in reverence of ones Guru or Teacher. According to the Gregorian calendar, Guru Purnima is celebrated on the full moon day of the Hindu month of Ashadha, which coincides with June or July.

Guru Purnima 2023 Date, Significance And Other Important Details | Freepik

On Guru Purnima, people worship and pay respect to their teachers. Guru Purnima, also known as Vyasa Purnima, the day is celebrated as the birth anniversary of the Hindu epic, Mahabharatas author, Ved Vyasa.

Lord Buddha is also honored on this day by his followers as it is believed that Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon on this day.In India, the occasion of Guru Purnima, is celebrated by millions of Hindus, Buddhists, and Jains.

Guru Purnima, also known Vyasa Purnima festival falls on the first full moon day or Purnima right after the summer solstice, in the month of July. As per the Hindu Panchang, this day arrives in the Ashadha maas, and this year, it will fall on July 3rd, 2023.

Guru Purnima 2023 Tithi

Guru Purnima 2023: Date and Time Guru Purnima 2023: Date July 3, 2023 Guru Purnima Day Monday Guru Purnima Tithi Begins 8:21 PM, July 2, 2023 Guru Purnima Tithi Ends 5:08 PM, July 3, 2023





Guru Purnima 2023: Mantra

Gurur Brahma, Gurur Vishnu, Guru Devo Maheshwara.

Guru Saakshaat Parabrahma, Tasmai Shri Gurave Namah.

   ,         ||

Guru Purnima 2023 Date, Significance And Other Important Details | Freepik

Guru Purnima 2023: Significance Of Guru Purnima

Traditionally the festival is celebrated by Buddhists in honour of the Lord Buddha who gave his first sermon on this day at Sarnath, Uttar Pradesh.

However, the followers of the Hindu religion celebrate Guru Purnima as the birth anniversary of Veda Vyasa. Guru Purnima is believed to be the day when Krishna-Dwaipayana Vyasa  author of Mahabharata was born to sage Parashara and Satyavati.

Hence the day is also called Vyasa Purnima. Sage Vyasa worked for the cause of Vedic studies by gathering all the Vedic hymns and further dividing into four parts based on rites and characteristics. The four parts are namely Rig, Yajur, Sama, and Atharva.

Guru Purnima 2023: Importance of Guru Purnima

On the day of Guru Purnima, devotees take a bath and offer prayers to their Gurus. Guru Purnima is celebrated all over the country. They recite this Shloka in remembrance of their Gurus.

Guru Purnima 2023 Date: Time, Tithi, Importance And Significance Of Guru Purnima | Freepik

1. "A man should first direct himself in the way he should go. Only then should he instruct others" - Gautam Buddha

2. Guru is the creator Brahma, Guru is the preserver Vishnu, Guru is the destroyer, Shiva. Guru is directly the supreme spirit, I offer my salutations to this Guru - Adi Shankara

3. "To the world, you may just be a teacher but to your students, you are a hero" Happy Guru Purnima!

4. You are a light for me in the dark. Support me always and I will succeed in all ways.

5. It is an incomparable journey where the Guru leads you from the visible to the invisible, from the material to the divine, from the ephemeral to the eternal. Thank you for being my Guru.

6. "Teachers are parents in schools and I have been blessed to have the best of them".

7. "It is an incomparable journey where the Guru leads you from the visible to the invisible, from the material to the divine, from the ephemeral to the eternal. Thank you for being my Guru".

8. "My guru said that when he suffers, it brings him closer to God. I have found this, too" - by Ram Dass

9. As you walk with the Guru, you walk in the light of existence, away from the darkness of ignorance. You leave behind all the problems of your life and move towards the peak experiences of life".

10. "In his words, you'll find wisdom, At his feet, you'll find the world. Guru is a link between You and God".

ALSO READ: List Of Important Days in July 2023: National & International Events in July
Its the battle of the year! On a typical day on the Internet, a month ago, Elon Musk shocked everyone when he proposed a cage fight between himself and his social media rival CEO Mark Zuckerberg.

On hearing of a possible brawl between two of the biggest tech billionaires, the internet was drooling involuntarily at the thought. Well, apparently it was not just the people who wanted to see the two go at each other but also the Facebook boss Zuckerberg who jumped at the chance and agreed to a match.

Since then, news about the two looking into suitable arenas for the cage fight has been popping up all over the internet. The excitement has reached such a peak that recently the government of Italy offered the two CEOs to have their battle on the ancient grounds of the iconic Colosseum.

Whatever the venue, it is clear that both Zuckerberg and Musk want this fight to happen. Their conviction for the clash has made people even more curious about the outcome of the throwdown. To add fuel to everyones fire, I picked up my trusty Tarot deck to find out who has a better chance of winning the fight, Musk or Zuckerberg if it ever comes to blows between the two tech CEOs.

Elon Musks Chances Of Winning

From the looks of it, Musk might ask for some help to prepare for the Colosseum-worthy fight. The Three of Pentacles is indicative of his urge to bring in help from contemporaries. With the Seven Of Wands in the spread, Musks conviction for the fight seems real and strong. He is preparing to put up a strong fight.

Sejal Jakhwal

However, he might also have a trick or two up his sleeve as The Moon card so evidently points out. But it seems Musks training will have to go in vain, as The Tower card shows up in the reading to pose an unexpected upheaval.

The last card to pop out was the Queen of Pentacles which signifies that even if Musk loses the fight, which seems a likely outcome, he will still gain something from the experience. In short, it will not be a complete loss for the Tesla tycoon.

Mark Zuckerbergs Chances Of Winning

Zuckerbergs reading starts off way worse than Musks as the Ten of Swords pops up. The card tells me that the Facebook CEO will be exhausted and even unfavoured in the fight. However, this upheaval is balanced by the Strength card coming out for Mark as a testament to his power in the cage.

Sejal Jakhwal

It is already known that Mark has the upper hand in cage fights given that he has been a martial artist for a while now. The cards show a similar story. With The Temperance, the reading shows how Mark will maintain his balance and moderate his temperament before and during the supposed fight.

He is also set on winning as the Three of Wands shows his conviction towards the match. The card also stands for confidence, success, and self-belief, three things that will immensely help the CEO win the match, if it ever happens.

The final card in the spread, The Ace of Cups, shows how this win has a better chance of ending up in Zuckerbergs hands. As it signifies all things good and calls for a celebration.

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Defend the Tampa 5! Drop the Charges Now!

Date:

Sunday, July 09, 2023

Time:

2:00 PM - 3:30 PM

Event Type:

Protest

Organizer/Author:

Freedom Road Socialist Organization

Location Details:

San Jose City Hall

200 E. Santa Clara St. San Jose, Ca 95113

Freedom Road Socialist Organization (FRSO) San Jose, along with the San Jose chapter of Students for a Democratic Society (SDS) are participating in a national week of protest on Sunday, July 9th at 2pm in front of San Jose City Hall to demand that the charges against the Tampa 5 be dropped immediately.



The Tampa 5 are five SDS activists from Tampa, Florida that have been charged with wrongful felonies and are facing up to 10+ years in prison. Their names are Chrisley Carpio, Gia Davila, Laura Rodriguez, Lauren Pineiro and Jeanie Kida. These student activists were brutally beaten and arrested by University of South Florida campus police for protesting Republican governor Ron DeSantis attacks on Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) programs in colleges. Despite being released on bail, they are still facing wrongful felony charges including battery against a police officer, even though there is video evidence of them being attacked by the police unprovoked. Protesting is not a crime and we must demand that these outrageous charges be dropped!


The Anambra State Government has commenced the installation of clock-in devices in public health facilities to curb absenteeism and ensure that health workers take their duties seriously.

Dr Afam Obidike, the Commissioner for Health disclosed this during a meeting with administrators of public hospitals in Awka, the states capital.

He noted that during some of his unannounced visits to hospitals, many health workers were absent while some health facilities did not open for services.

Obidike said such attitude has contributed to mortalities recorded in the state and hindered progress in the health sector.

READ ALSO: Woman Nabbed For Using 10-Year-Old Sick Child For Alms Begging In Anambra

He said, This is part of the reasons for the installation of the clock-in device in all government hospitals; it is to ensure that healthcare workers are at their duty posts to attend to the health needs of the people.

The device will also be used to monitor the hours health workers put in each day and that will subsequently determine their monthly salaries and allowances.

The goal is to eliminate maternal and infant mortalities, as well as restore the confidence of our people in the healthcare services we provide in the state.

We are establishing the Hub and Spoke approach for proper networking among the hospitals. The telemedicine will also allow primary healthcare centres have access to different doctors.

We are strengthening at least one general hospital in each local government area so that primary health centres can refer patients when the need arises.

The state government is doing all it can with limited resources and as healthcare providers, we cannot afford to fail.
The Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company (IBEDC), has disclosed that the Nigerian Electricity Regulation Commission (NERC) is yet to give a directive on the new electricity tariff earlier scheduled to commence on July 1.

Busolami Tunwase, Public Relations Officer of IBEDC, stated this in a chat with the News Agency of Nigeria in Ibadan on Saturday.

I am not aware that NERC has given us any such directive. It is the commission that does the whole thing and I am not sure it has given such a directive.

But, any moment we get the directive to that effect, we will announce it and it will commence based on instructions from NERC, Tunwase said.

READ ALSO: Electricity Tariff Hike: We May Relocate To Other African Countries  Manufacturers Tell FG

Information Nigeria understands that Abuja Electricity Distribution Company (AEDC) is also yet to effect any increment in tariff.

Condemnation had greeted the proposed new tariff since it hit Nigerians, with stakeholders arguing that the timing of the increment was wrong, following the effect of fuel subsidy removal.

Though IBEDC offices were besieged by lots of customers seeking to buy energy ahead of the commencement of the new tariff, they were disappointed, as they could not purchase the energy due to complaints of congestion and network hitches by the company.
Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf of Kano State, has maintained that the demolitions he embarked upon in the State capital, was for the interest of the people.

Yusuf disclosed this on Saturday while hosting the Emir of Kano, Aminu Ado Bayero, at the government house during the celebrations of the Eid-el-Kabir.

The governor said, Your highness it is important for the Emirate Council to note that we embarked on the demolition exercise to bring back public properties that were illegally acquired and we will ensure that all such properties are restored back for the interest of the good people of Kano.

READ ALSO: Kano: Gov. Abba Yusuf Gets 72-Hr Ultimatum To Stop Demolition Madness

While reiterating he has no regrets demolishing the structures the past administration of Abdullahi Umar Ganduje sold out, he appreciated the Emir and members of the Emirate Council for the visit being the first of its kind since his assumption of office.

He also used the opportunity to enumerate the achievements of his administration in the last 31 days in office.

According to him, his achievements in office included the payment of National Examination Council, NECO, fees for 55,000 secondary school students amounting to N1.5 billion, restoration of street lights, and minimizing the cases of phone snatching within the Kano metropolis.
President Umaro Sissoco Embalo of Guinea-Bissau, Saturday, paid a visit to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at his Ikoyi residence in Lagos State.

Special adviser to the President on Special Duties, Communication, and Strategy, Dele Alake, said Embalos visit was to create a bond with Tinubu.

According to Alake, though the visit was of a private nature, Embalo took the opportunity to express his willingness to cooperate with Nigeria while commending the laudable policy initiatives taken by the President since he assumed office.

Abiodun Oladunjoye, state house director on information, quoted Alake as saying: President Embalo commended the laudable policy initiatives of President Tinubu in the last month and added that everyone in the international community has been commending the giant strides of the Nigerian leader.

READ ALSO: Tinubu Shouldnt Take Credit For Fuel Subsidy Removal, Buhari Planted It  Northern Elders

He came to pay his solidarity and bond with a brother African head of state, in the first instance, and in particular as a brother head of state in West Africa.

This is a very commendable sign of things to come in the entire West African region in terms of the atmosphere being generated by Nigerias giant steps in the last one month, and the need for Nigeria to take its rightful place in African affairs.

Everybody is looking up to Nigeria, especially in Africa and the ECOWAS region and President Tinubu is ready to take up the gauntlet.

In a social media post, Tinubu said he and Embalo, who is currently the chairman of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Authority of Heads of State and Government, enjoyed a pleasant lunch together and discussed several issues of mutual interest. 
Former Governor of Sokoto State, Attahiru Bafarawa, has expressed worry about how banditry in the North-West and North-East has posed severe danger to food security in Nigeria.

According to him, President Bola Ahmed Tinubus administration should prioritise food security rather than discussing cabinet ministerial selections, subsidies, and the economy.

The trustee for the Peoples Democratic Party also forewarned that the North will experience serious educational backwardness over the next 50 years if tough steps were not implemented to reduce insecurity.

Bafarawa, who stated this in an interview with The Punch on Sunday, said that many primary and secondary schools in Northern Nigeria have been shut down because of the activities of bandits, saying, this is a serious disaster.

Information Nigeria reports that while the announcement by the government of the petrol subsidy removal culminated in a hike in the price of food and consumables, discussions about the ministerial appointment by the President have dominated the media.

READ ALSO: RCCG Pastor Shot Dead, Gunmen Abducts Worshippers

He however advised that the government sets its priorities correctly.

He said, Instead of talking about cabinet, subsidy, and the economy, the government should consider food security because with the rate we are going, in the next three months, we are definitely going to have problems in Nigeria, especially in the North-West.

The bandits have refused to allow farmers to cultivate their crops. This is a very dangerous situation, not only because the bandits are killing people but also because the food scarcity is going to be too serious in the next few months, especially in the North West and North East. So, we want the government to wake up and do something about it.

Also, with the way education is going, in the next 50 years, we are going to be very backward in education because most of the primary schools in the North have been closed because of banditry. There are no primary schools, no secondary schools and this is a serious disaster. So, we cannot sit down and watch; something must be done right before it gets worse.

The government should fight security, especially food insecurity, in the country because its a serious matter. Whatever the government is going to do, let the issue of food security be top priority.
Coalition of South East Youth Leaders (COSEYL), has challenged the National Chairman, Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Mahmood Yakubu, to prove his innocence by walking on the streets of Abuja without security personnel, following allegations of corruption leveled against him.

Information Nigeria reports that the INEC boss had been accused by opposition parties of compromising the integrity of the electoral body by allegedly manipulating the outcome of the 2023 presidential elections in favour of the Commissions preferred candidate.

Yakubu, however, denied all the allegations, insisting that the election which produced President Bola Ahmed Tinubu was free and fair.

READ ALSO: INEC Confirmed 2023 Polls Was Manipulated In Favour Of Their Preferred Candidate  Kenneth Okonkwo

President General of COSEYL, Goodluck Ibem, via a statement on Saturday, asked the INEC boss to walk on the streets of Abuja on foot without security for 30 minutes if his conscience is clear that he conducted a free and fair 2023 general elections using the Bimodal Verification Accreditation System, BVAS, for all the elections.

Conscience, they say, fears no accusation and truth, they say, is an open wound, we challenge Prof Yakubu on this for the whole world to see.

This is a challenge and test of integrity for Yakubu and if he doesnt accept the challenge, it then tells us who he is and what he did during the general elections.
After almost a year of working on a hybrid schedule with three days per week in the office, Comcast is planning to expand in-office time to four days per week starting in the fall. Read more

And then there was one ... remote work day.

After almost a year of working on a hybrid schedule with three days per week in the office, Comcast is planning to expand in-office time to four days per week starting in the fall, according to a company spokesperson.

The decision was based on observations from the past year of hybrid work, and a desire to provide more opportunities for collaborative work, in-person meetings, and mentorship, the spokesperson said.

Office-based employees have been expected to come in on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays since September. The new policy requires four days in the office, and the specific days will be decided between employees and their managers based on their teams needs, the spokesperson said.

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Comcast will also allow flexibility for employees and their managers to adjust in-office schedules for individual needs, such as child-care arrangements, and special circumstances, the spokesperson added.

Comcasts two Center City buildings, at 1701 John F. Kennedy Blvd. and 1800 Arch St., are the primary work location for about 8,000 employees.

When the company rolled out its hybrid work policy last year, leadership had already analyzed roles to determine which ones most needed in-office time, and designated thousands of jobs as virtual home-office positions. Before the pandemic, very few jobs at Comcast had that designation, but now there are more than 25,000 such jobs at the company, said Bill Strahan, Comcasts executive vice president of human resources, in an interview last month.

Good news for Center City business

Comcasts shift back to the office last year was widely seen as a signal to the rest of the local business community that in-office work would be part of the future. Foot traffic in Center City increased immediately.

In April, the average number of pedestrians in the Center City business district on a Tuesday was about 40,000  roughly 15,000 more than it had been in April 2022  according to a recent Center City District report. Foot traffic on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays was also up significantly from 2022, though it was down slightly on Fridays.

Paul Levy, president and CEO of Center City District, said he sees Comcasts increase in office days as a very positive sign for Center City activity. He expects it will bring more business to retailers and restaurants, and will likely inspire other employers to bring people back into the office more.

When a major firm like Comcast says theyre coming back, it gives a signal to other firms, even if they dont do business with Comcast, Levy said.

While downtown recovery has been steady, its not complete. The number of people downtown on an average day in May was 75% of May 2019 levels, and the office vacancy rate is nearly 20% (up from 12% in 2019). The prevalence of remote work has continued to plague the lunch business at Center City restaurants. Ridership on SEPTA Regional Rail is around half of what it was pre-pandemic, while its slightly higher for buses and lower for the Broad Street and Market-Frankford Lines.

Comcast has been in touch with SEPTA about the planned increase in in-office days, SEPTA spokesperson Andrew Busch said.

Were thrilled any time we see an indication that more people are going to be on the system, Busch said. Every fare paid helps.

SEPTA saw a significant dip in ridership as a result of the pandemic and with federal infrastructure money expiring next year, the transit agency is eager to attract more riders to increase revenue.

Busch said SEPTA has been in frequent contact with employers large and small in the city as part of their efforts to boost ridership. With three months to prepare for Comcasts increase in foot traffic, he said, there will be time to discuss potential adjustments to service to meet their needs. Busch noted that SEPTA has already noticed some increase in the number of commuters on Mondays, but that hasnt created a significant uptick in revenue for the transit system yet.

Marc Vetri, who opened Pizzeria Salvy in the Comcast Technology Center last month, said he expects another day of in-office presence to make a big difference for his business.

Anything to boost vibrancy of the city and keep it humming is a great thing in my book, Vetri said.
The Comcast Center in Philadelphia will likely see a lot more activity on Mondays and Fridays come September, when the company amends its hybrid policy to require in-office attendance on any four weekdays, instead of just Tuesday through Thursday. Read more

When the news broke last month that Comcast plans to require its workforce to show up in the office four days a week, reactions from employees ranged from frustrated to celebratory.

Among those who expressed concern, the main worry was that they would eventually lose all hybrid-work flexibility gained in the pandemic  that four in-office days would eventually become five; that they would be expected to stay in the office for a full eight hours, complicating family obligations and child-care arrangements, or that in-office time would be closely monitored and deviations from the policy would be reprimanded.

A spokesperson for Comcast emphasized that the latest iteration of Comcasts hybrid policy is meant to encourage collaboration and flexibility and noted that the company has made changes to thousands of roles over the last three years to allow fully remote work arrangements for positions for which that works best. For example, in May, a small group of recruiters was designated as virtual home-office employees based on the fact that most of their work involves meeting with candidates individually by video or phone.

With roughly 8,000 workers at its two Center City buildings, Comcast is one of the largest private-sector employers in the city. Its the only Fortune 100 company headquartered in Center City, and it often sets the tone for other companies that call Philadelphia home. When leadership announced a partial return to the office last year, it was seen as a signal that in-office work would survive in the post-pandemic work environment. Downtown stakeholders have suggested that other employers with Center City offices are likely to follow Comcasts lead.

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The worries of some employees are perhaps fueled by reports of other U.S. companies taking a firm stance on in-office time post-pandemic, tracking employee attendance using security-badge scans, and threatening action against people who dont show up on the required number of days.

Recent messaging from Comcast leadership seems to strike a different tone.

The policy, effective Sept. 12, was announced internally on June 27 in an email from president and CEO Dave Watson to U.S. office-based employees. Watson noted that in-office includes business travel, external meetings, sales calls, site visits or other instances where you are interacting with colleagues, clients or prospects on-site and in-person.

Watson told employees they should work with their managers to determine which four days to be in the office each week and noted that employees will be allowed to work from home without taking time off on days when they are sick or have sick family members.

We value flexibility, and in return, we expect you to be responsive to the needs of the business and your team, Watson added.

Comcasts hybrid pros and cons

Comcasts hybrid work policy since September has asked employees to be in the office on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays, with the option to work remotely on Mondays and Fridays.

Several current employees, who spoke with The Inquirer on the condition of anonymity because they didnt want to compromise their employment, said they had heard chatter before the news broke and before the internal communications were sent that Comcast would add another in-office day per week.

This completely just made 8,000 Philadelphians feel devalued when they have been working tirelessly from a hybrid schedule to only be told ... that theyre essentially being punished, said one Philadelphia-based business professional. I thought three [in-office days per week] was really the right balance.

Some current employees said the messaging around in-person collaboration seems hollow because many of their meetings, even when people are in the office, are held on Microsoft Teams to include people across multiple offices.

The people who I would want to pick their brains [when Im in the office], I cant even get on their schedule because of all the Teams meetings, the Philadelphia business professional said.

Another business professional, who is headquartered in Philadelphia and commutes more than an hour from the suburbs, accepted the job when the company was fully remote due to COVID-19 mitigation protocols. The commuter understood at the time that Comcast would likely adopt a hybrid model once COVID-19 concerns eased but was told that a requirement of more than three in-office days was unlikely to take shape.

It took a long time for me to get used to three days a week in the office, the commuter said. My productivity definitely goes down when I have to go to the office.

Still, flexibility from management in the last nine months has been helpful, said the commuter, who has a young family. Being able to work the end of the day remotely on in-office days allows this employee to be home for dinner and kids bedtimes.

I really, really dont want to leave Comcast, the commuter said. Everything has been so great so far, but four days a week if its so rigid, especially if its with eight hours a day  it would make me at least start looking.

Some employees who spoke with The Inquirer welcome the increased face time with colleagues. They also noted that the office is easily accessible by public transit and offers such amenities as a gym and an assortment of food nearby.

We have a great office in Philly for increased collaboration, said a Philadelphia-based senior software engineer. I take SEPTA to work and I love the train ride and exploring the vibrant Philadelphia eateries.

The software engineer expressed little concern that the change will require sacrificing family time because Comcast believes in work-life balance.

I actually do see benefit from coming in. I do interact with people more, being in the office, one longtime sales employee said. I meet with people I normally wouldnt talk with when Im in the office.

Still, the sales employee said, messaging from leadership hasnt been clear about why more office time is needed, when many meetings continue to take place over video between people in different offices.

If its for economic reasons, just say so, the sales employee said. Just own that message: We like the collaboration, but were also a pillar of the economic community in Philadelphia. We have two giant buildings and we need people here.

Regional economic impact

Stimulating the local economy was not mentioned in Watsons email to employees. Still, downtown stakeholders were happy about the change when news broke, expecting the added in-office day will boost revenue for local businesses and SEPTA. Center City District president and CEO Paul Levy said last month that Comcasts move might motivate other employers to encourage more in-office time for their workers.

When a major firm like Comcast says theyre coming back, it gives a signal to other firms, even if they dont do business with Comcast, Levy said.

An April survey by the Center City District, a group representing downtown business interests, which garnered responses from 64 Center City and University City businesses, found that nearly a third of respondents see the average worker come in four or five days per week.

Still, the majority said workers tend to come in less often than that. The most popular answer among the 64 businesses, none of whom had a fully remote workforce: three in-office days a week.
Millions suffered through intense heat Wednesday as fires raged, health worries mounted and the world appeared headed for its hottest month of July on record.
Philadelphia police arrested five Moms for Liberty protesters for blocking traffic outside the Philadelphia Marriott Downtown Sunday morning. Read more

Five Moms for Liberty protesters were arrested Sunday morning for blocking traffic outside the Philadelphia Marriott Downtown, and a sixth for waving a flag over a barricade set up outside the hotel, according to activists.

Philadelphia police said the six people were arrested on charges of failure to disperse, but did not provide further details. ACT UP Philadelphia, the AIDS activism group, provided photographs of five people, who were holding hands while standing in the middle of the intersection at 12th and Filbert Streets.

They were chanting for Moms for Liberty to go home and blocking traffic, said Aaron Bodiford, an activist with the group. He said police gave the activists three warnings before making the arrests, pulling their vans up in front of the barricades where the rest of the protesters were stationed.

Later Sunday, Bodiford said a trans woman was also arrested for waving a trans flag over the barricade set up around the Marriott. A video posted to Twitter showed the activist on the Marriotts property.

The arrests came on the fourth and final day of the summit for the controversial parental rights group, which targets LGBTQ issues and diversity education and has drawn protests since its arrival in Philadelphia Thursday. The event, attended by 650 people from across the country, featured speeches from former President Donald Trump and Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, among other Republican presidential contenders.

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Sundays program included North Carolina Lt. Gov. Mark Robinson, a GOP candidate for governor who has said theres no reason anybody anywhere in America should be telling any child about transgenderism, homosexuality, any of that filth; and KrisAnne Hall, a self-described constitutional attorney who has previously addressed the Oath Keepers militia group.

The summit contained a heavy focus on opposing transgender identity and gender transitioning  messages not lost on protesters, who throughout the conference have been waving Pride flags and chanting Philly is a trans city and Philly is a queer city.

Police have been stationed at the protests, which started Thursday outside the Marriott and the Museum of the American Revolution as it hosted a welcome reception for Moms for Liberty that night over outcry from its staff. While some interactions have been tense  police threatened to arrest anyone who blocked traffic Thursday night  only one arrest had been reported before Sunday.

Saturdays protests were family-oriented, with children drawing on the street with chalk and decorating signs during a daylong dance party. Bodiford said activists hadnt wanted to risk arrests of families.

As the dance party resumed Sunday, Bodiford said protesters wanted to send a message.

We are willing to take things further than we have been, he said from outside the Marriott, where Moms attendees were trickling out as the summit ended. Its actually not on their terms. Its on our terms.
Kel Smith, 40, of Queen Village, and their partner, Lydia Tseng, 39, of Old City, stand along the fence with signs as a Moms of Liberty attendee is interviewed Friday. Read more

Inside a conference room at the Philadelphia Marriott Downtown on Saturday morning, women held their cell phones in the air, filming a video that began to play in front of them.

I dont ever want someone else to feel this way, said a tearful young woman on the screen, who said she regretted receiving treatment after being told she was transgender. I feel like no one wants to date me or love me. Some in the crowd murmured, No.

Standing at the front of the room, Chris Elston told the women that if you teach [children] theres such a thing as being in the wrong body, theyre going to believe you.

Elston  who said the video came from Reddit  isnt a medical or mental health professional. Hes a father known as Billboard Chris, who travels the country wearing a billboard that says Children cannot consent to puberty blockers.

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And he wasnt speaking at a health conference, but at a summit training candidates to take over school boards.

 READ MORE: Education officials tell Moms for Liberty attendees that schools need to get all this woke stuff out

The national Moms for Liberty summit being held in Philadelphia this weekend has drawn leading GOP presidential candidates and hundreds of attendees  mostly women  from across the country. Moms for Liberty, which bills itself as a parental rights group, says its concerned with empowering parents to hold school leaders accountable.

But a major theme of the conference, raised repeatedly by speakers, has been denying transgender identity  in addition to arguing that schools shouldnt teach about the topic. A 2022 analysis found that 1.6 million people in the United States, including 300,000 youth over the age of 13, identify as transgender.

No child is born in the wrong body, said Jaimee Michell, a graphic designer and founder of the group Gays Against Groomers, who addressed the full conference Saturday morning and said that we will not make peace with an ideology that seeks to sexualize, indoctrinate, and amputate the healthy body parts of children.

Elston, addressing attendees during a separate breakout session, said that using pronouns that affirm childrens gender identities rather than biological sex is like a cult. What chance do these children have at getting out of this?

Former Arkansas Gov. Asa Hutchinson, a Republican presidential contender who spoke Saturday, drew applause when he said: I believe that God created two genders.

LGBTQ advocates said Moms for Liberty was spreading hatred and misinformation.

Its untrue that there is a simple or clear gender binary for all humans, said Billie Swiggard, a staff physician at the Mazzoni Center, Philadelphias largest LGBTQ health agency. Swiggard, who is a transgender woman, also noted that it was extremely rare for someone to receive gender-affirming surgery under the age of 18.

The Moms are not medical or educational experts and their statements lead to real harm, said Chris Bartlett, executive director of the William Way LGBT Community Center in Philadelphia.

The groups positions and activities  and Moms for Libertys recent designation by the Southern Poverty Law Center as an antigovernment extremist group  has helped drive opposition to the summit, which began Thursday. Protesters chanted Philly is a trans city and displayed Pride flags outside the Museum of the American Revolution, which hosted a reception despite outcry from its staff.

Demonstrations have continued outside the Marriott throughout the weekend. On Saturday, a daylong dance party protest infused with electro beats endured under the summer sun. Rally members danced and blew bubbles into the air as parents and their children drew in rainbow chalk on a portion of Filbert Street in front of the hotel, decorating their own protest signs and capes. Others waved flags and posters in front of stopped cars, and drag performer Danny Delorean read aloud to the crowd of families.

 READ MORE: Moms for Liberty is sharing the Philadelphia Marriott with an international Jewish conference. Some attendees arent happy.

Posing for a photo waving a large blue, pink, and white transgender flag in front of the Marriott, Radiance Angelina Petro said she came to rally against anti-trans policies in schools and government and in support of the queer kids, because they are the future.

Petro, 55, said she was protesting Moms for Liberty, because as a trans person, my life depends on it, citing the elevated suicide rates of trans people compared with the rest of the population  a statistic that advocates emphasize is due to mistreatment and stigmatization in society.

Alicia Oglesby, a school counselor in Philadelphia, attended the protest  organized by the Philly Childrens Movement and the Philly Childcare Collective  with her daughter, Maya, 11.

Theres no one group that deserves to say that children should not learn about all types of people, so Moms for Liberty has a lot of audacity, Oglesby said. Maya, who held a sign featuring a quote from James Baldwin, added: You shouldnt judge people by what they look like, you should judge people by their personality.

Some Moms for Liberty attendees pushed back. We are for the trans community; we are just not for the teaching of gender identity in classrooms, Tiffany Barbato, the Delaware County chapter chair of Moms for Liberty, told The Inquirer.

Barbato, who said she got involved in Moms for Liberty when her children were required to wear masks while running track, added that the group wasnt seeking to ban books, but to ensure only age-appropriate books were in classrooms.

The group, however, has helped fuel the removal of books from school libraries across the country  including in the Central Bucks School District, where Gender Queer and This Book is Gay were banned in May, and where book challengers drew heavily on a Moms for Liberty-affiliated website that flags explicit passages for parents.

Amy McGahran, a mother of Central Bucks graduates, traveled with others to the Marriott from Doylestown to protest, saying Moms for Liberty has infiltrated her districts school board.

Its heartbreaking, said Kira Kraiman, also a former Central Bucks parent motivated to campaign for change on the board.

Inside the Marriott on Saturday, speakers urged Moms for Liberty members to stay focused on their goals rather than their critics.

What you guys are slogging through is a cultural revolution, said James Lindsay, a pundit and author of such books as Race Marxism, who drew parallels to Chinas Cultural Revolution and the forced reeducation of teachers.

At one session Saturday, attendees got instruction on probing schools use of social emotional learning  an approach aimed at helping students manage their emotions and develop other skills, but that conservatives say is ushering in critical race theory and other topics they believe should be out of bounds of public schools.

Deb Fillman, a homeschool consultant who held a breakout session focused on the topic, likened social-emotional learning to a drug being tested on children.

We always think medically, she said, but a lot of these ideas ... are experimental.

Swiggard, of the Mazzoni Center, noted that treatment of children and youth for physical gender transitions is done carefully, in consultation with doctors, parents, psychologists and other members of the young persons care team.

These decisions are not done casually or without long deliberation, she said.

Staff writers Punya Bhasin and Rita Giordano contributed to this article.
Jackee Nichols holding a painting of her grandson, Rasul Benson, in her South Philadelphia home. Benson was 15 when he was shot and killed at a gas station at 25th Street and Passyunk Avenue in October 2018. Read more

To hear Nyseem Smith tell it, shooting people was something of a pastime for him and his friends in South Philadelphia.

Week after week, sometimes day after day, Smith said, he and his crew from 31st Street would fall into a familiar routine: Theyd steal a car, hop in with guns they all shared, then go looking for rivals to shoot.

Sometimes, he said, theyd seek out young men associated with 27th Street, another neighborhood group. Other times, theyd look for people who lived around the nearby Wilson Park apartments.

The cycle of violence  sometimes chronicled on Instagram  became virtually impossible to extinguish. And by the time investigators caught up with Smith in 2019, he confessed to a staggering array of crimes.

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All told, he said, during a 13-month stretch when he wasnt in jail or on house arrest, he participated in shootings that left at least 17 people wounded and one man dead.

Still, when asked why he and a generation of young men believed that the conflict was worth such bloodshed, his reply, almost nonchalant, consisted of just five words:

We dont like each other.

Smiths account took center stage at a Philadelphia murder trial this month when he served as a star witness against two men charged in the shooting death of 15-year-old Rasul Benson, an unintended target killed at a gas station in 2017 amid the long-running neighborhood conflict.

The defendants  Hanef Wilkins, 22, and Yameen Mofield, 21  were convicted of third-degree murder and related crimes, largely due to the testimony of Smith, 25, who spoke in a dry staccato from the witness stand and wore a surgical mask that covered nearly his entire face.

He said Wilkins and Mofield  who, like him, were associated with 31st Street  told him theyd killed the teen because they were targeting people from 27th Street who were also at the station pumping gas. Aspects of Smiths statement were corroborated by cell phone records, prison phone calls, and ballistics evidence.

Lawyers for Wilkins and Mofield sought to cast Smith as a liar and unreliable narrator. They repeatedly stressed to the jury that he was offered a plea deal with a prison sentence of just five to 20 years  far short of the maximum he could have faced for his extended crime spree.

The Nyseem Smith you saw here was a commonwealth robot, said Wilkins lawyer, Richard J. Giuliani. What he told you wasnt true. It simply wasnt true.

Beyond his testimony in this case, Smith spoke to authorities at least 17 times after his arrest. And his statements provided an exceedingly rare glimpse into the type of recurring violence that can take hold in the city. Although hundreds of shootings every year go unsolved, in part due to a lack of cooperating witnesses, Smiths statements helped investigators solve at least 10 additional crimes, said Assistant District Attorney William Fritze, head of the offices Gun Violence Task Force.

Smith often implicated himself, Fritze said. And his testimony did not come without risk. His statements were leaked online, where he was called a rat, and Fritze said Smith has been moved to different prisons due to safety concerns. In addition, when Smith testified at trial earlier this month, Fritze said, agents had to bring him to and from the courthouse alone  instead of on a bus carrying other prisoners  to ensure that he wouldnt be attacked.

His role in convicting Wilkins and Mofield was perhaps the last significant action in a sprawling, yearslong investigation that sought to disrupt the conflict between 31st Street, 27th Street, and Wilson Park. Nearly 20 people have now been convicted for their roles in gunfire that left at least 30 people wounded and three dead, Fritze said. And only two cases remain pending, both of which he said are expected to result in guilty pleas in the coming weeks.

For a time, Jackee Nichols, Bensons grandmother, said she felt as if Bensons killing  which took several years to solve  had been forgotten. But shortly after the verdict was delivered Wednesday, she said she was grateful for some measure of justice.

I got more than most families and victims ever get, she said.

A string of shootings

Smith, during his time on the stand, hardly resembled the type of charismatic star witness brought in to charm juries in movies or on television shows. He spoke softly, almost mumbling, and although he was asked dozens of questions over nearly two days, he routinely answered by saying only yes or no.

Still, he offered some insight into his background, saying he took to the streets of South Philly about age 12 or 13  selling drugs, carrying guns, and stealing cars. He said people in the crew from 31st and Tasker Streets would routinely share and trade firearms, and often tried to sell the stolen vehicles to chop shops in Southwest Philadelphia.

But in 2017, he told investigators, his crimes grew more serious.

That December, he said, he participated in two shootings in two days, including the fatal shooting of 17-year-old Nasir Livingston at a Chinese takeout at 27th and Dickinson Streets. Smith said he didnt shoot Livingston, but was in a car driving around with friends as they were looking for him. They decided to shoot Livingston because he was an affiliate of 27th Street, Smith said.

Three months later, in February 2018, Smith said, he participated in four shootings in less than three weeks, including one on the 2700 block of Reed Street. In that case, Smith said, he and other 31st Street members were targeting a member of 27th Street because he talks a lot.

But they hit a bystander  a 59-year-old nurse who was shot in the crossfire. She survived.

I felt bad for her, Smith said on the stand, an assertion that lawyers for Wilkins and Mofield sought to pick apart during cross-examination.

In March 2018, Smith was arrested and jailed for possessing a gun. But he posted bail a few months later. Not long after that, he said, he participated in a triple shooting on the 1600 block of South Marston Street.

And near the end of 2018, he said, he led police on a high-speed chase from Grays Ferry into West Philadelphia after authorities noticed he was driving a stolen car. He was not caught.

On March 6, 2019, Smith was arrested again  this time charged with the Marston Street shooting.

As he sat in jail to await trial, he decided to speak to police.

The investigation takes shape

By late 2019, Bensons murder had been unsolved for more than a year. The wait gnawed at Nichols, his grandmother.

From the beginning, she believed Benson had been killed as part of the back-and-forth violence in the neighborhood. Benson wasnt part of the 27th Street crew, but he knew people who were. And on the night he was shot  Oct. 4, 2018  he was with two friends at the Gulf station on Passyunk Avenue near 25th Street, pumping gas for tips.

Surveillance video played at the trial showed a car pulling in to the station about 8 p.m. A gunman got out of the back seat and chased one of Bensons friends through the parking lot. Another shooter fired from the back seat of the car.

It was all over within seconds. The gunman got back into the car and was driven away.

Benson was struck in the chest and declared dead at the hospital. The two other teens were shot but survived.

As her grandsons case languished without an arrest, Nichols struggled to get through basic tasks without experiencing painful memories. And she occasionally encountered people on the street who she was convinced knew whod killed Benson.

It wasnt until Smith began talking that the investigation started to heat up.

In a statement given in early 2020, Smith told police that Wilkins and Mofield had come to his house after the crime and confessed. Mofield was panicking, Smith said, saying hed dropped his phone at the scene.

Evidence discovered later appeared to corroborate portions of Smiths account, Fritze said. And Fritze told jurors that some of the details would have been impossible for Smith to have known or made up when he spoke to investigators.

One example: Smith said Wilkins and Mofield came to his house with two other people, and one of them  a teen Smith called Markelle  had not been on law enforcements radar before that. But cell phone records later showed that Markelle (who was never charged) had called Mofield an hour before the killing, according to trial testimony. And Markelle had deleted all of his messages in the hours surrounding the crime.

Smiths statement was not without issues. Mofield, for example, had not actually dropped his phone at the gas station. Prosecutors acknowledged that cell phone records showed his device leaving South Philadelphia later that night. But they said he could have dropped a second phone. And they pointed to a recorded prison phone call, placed just days after the slaying, in which two other 31st Street members  neither of them Smith  talked about Mofield, and said he was worried that hed dropped his phone at the crime scene.

Fritze contended this was corroboration for what Smith had told police. Mofields lawyer, Robert Gamburg, meanwhile, sought to cast Smiths statement as little more than unverified gossip, saying Smith was happy to tell investigators whatever they wanted to hear if it would spare him from receiving the equivalent of his own life sentence.

This is how rumors get started, Gamburg told the jury. This is how rumors spread.

But Fritze said prosecutors had sought to verify Smiths account line by line. And he said Smith  who faced significant danger for speaking up  never professed to be testifying for anything other than a chance at getting out of jail before hes an elderly man.

He pointed the finger at his boys over and over again, Fritze said.

Wilkins and Mofield are scheduled to be sentenced by Common Pleas Court Judge Charles Ehrlich in October. Nichols and her family plan to attend and tell the judge about the pain of losing Benson.

Fritze said the scale and scope of this investigation is unlike any other hes handled in his career. And moving forward, he said, one thing will stick with him above all.

We gave Rasuls family an answer, he said.
Pennsylvania homeowners face foreclosure while they wait for money from the state to help pay their mortgages. Read more

More thunderstorms may be rolling into our region again Sunday, and forecasters say some of them could be potent.

Homeowners across Pennsylvania applied for federal funds to help them with bills they struggled to pay during the pandemic. Our lead story highlights issues with the program that now requires them to apply again.

 Paola Perez (@pdesiperez, morningnewsletter@inquirer.com)

Eighty-year-old Deborah Brown is struggling to keep up with her bills. She was forced to retire due to kidney failure, and its become almost an impossibility to hold onto the Southwest Philadelphia rowhouse where shes lived for five decades.

To get help with her mortgage payments and utility bills, Brown applied for the Homeowner Assistance Fund, a state pandemic-relief program offering homeowners up to $50,000.

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Wheres the money? The state has paid out $119 million so far, about a third of the $350 million it received through the federal American Rescue Plan Act. But the program was mismanaged, even leading to applications being mistakenly denied. Theres a backup of more than 15,000 applications.

Brown is now six months behind on her mortgage. Thousands of Pennsylvania homeowners like her are still waiting for help  some of whom applied much earlier than Brown did.

Now, homeowners who previously applied must re-register in order for the state to consider their applications, and housing advocates are worried that homeowners dont know that.

In their own words: People are facing the loss of their homes while theyre waiting for the money to come through, said Rachel Labush, supervising attorney at Community Legal Services of Philadelphia. Were concerned that many people have given up or dont know they need to do anything now and are waiting.

Continue reading on whats next for homeowners waiting for funds.

What you should know today

The Liberty Bell remains a significant symbol of freedom as the United States observes Independence Day. The inscription at the top reads: Proclaim liberty throughout all the land unto all the inhabitants thereof.

Did the bell actually ring in July of 1776? Most say no. The National Park Service (the bells caretaker) says there is no evidence that the bell rang on July 4 or 8 that year.

But Thomas Kauffman, a writer who loves history, vintage church bells, and Philadelphia, makes the case for it in his new book, Independence Bells of Philadelphia. He insists that the Liberty Bell was among those rung during the day and into the night of July 8, 1776.

In his own words: There is a substantial account in the records of the Pennsylvania Provincial Assembly that the bell was being rung so often and so loudly that it irritated local residents, who complained to the assembly with a petition in 1772.

Continue reading about this conclusion in Kevin Riordans interview with Kauffman.

Pop quiz

A runaway was on the loose on the Kutztown University campus this week. Which animal was it?

A) Cheetah

B) Bear

C) Cow

D) Box turtle

 Unscramble the anagram 

Hint: A Philly woman-owned original 

BECKER DORRY TWEETS

Email us if you know the answer. Well select a reader at random to shout out here. Cheers to Stacy Stone who correctly guessed Fridays answer: fried chicken sandwich.

Photo of the day

 For todays track, were listening to: Dont you know theyre talking about a revolution? / It sounds like a whisper. 

 Taylors got you covered bright and early with the Monday morning news. Enjoy the fireworks.
Pennsylvania homeowners are waiting for mortgage assistance that the state received from the American Rescue Plan Act. Some applied in February 2022 when the program opened and are still waiting. Read more

A kidney failure diagnosis forced 80-year-old Deborah Brown into retirement a few years ago against her will. Since then, shes been fighting to keep up with bills and hold on to the Southwest Philadelphia rowhouse where shes lived for 50 years.

Before I retired, it was just a struggle, she said. Now its more than a struggle. Its almost an impossibility.

Paying her mortgage got harder. Her gas got shut off. Her son had a stroke early in the pandemic and moved in with her.

Brown applied for help through a state pandemic-relief program offering homeowners up to $50,000 for assistance with mortgage payments and utility bills. That was at the end of January, a day before the program closed to new applicants. Now, she said, shes six months behind on her mortgage, and shes among thousands of Pennsylvania homeowners still waiting for help  some of whom applied much earlier than Brown.

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 READ MORE: Thousands of homeowners still at risk as Pa. alleges improper denials, delays in mortgage relief

In the meantime, Im getting letters from the mortgage company. Im getting calls from the mortgage company. Im getting calls from collection agencies, she said.

For far, Pennsylvania has paid out $119 million  about a third of the $350 million it received through the federal American Rescue Plan Act for its Homeowner Assistance Fund. The private contractor that the state hired botched management of the program, including improperly denying some applications. So the Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency took over earlier this year. It faces a backlog of more than 15,000 applications.

The nonprofit Philadelphia Unemployment Project said it knows of lenders that have foreclosed on Pennsylvania homeowners who were waiting for assistance.

And now, homeowners who previously applied must re-register in order for the state to consider their applications, and housing advocates are worried that homeowners dont know that. In the five-county Philadelphia region, a little more than half of roughly 7,500 current applicants had re-registered, as of Friday. Statewide, more than 9,600 applicants had not registered again.

People are facing the loss of their homes while theyre waiting for the money to come through, said Rachel Labush, supervising attorney at Community Legal Services of Philadelphia. Were concerned that many people have given up or dont know they need to do anything now and are waiting.

Philadelphia and Chester are among the counties with the highest numbers of applicants who have not re-registered. The Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency is hosting re-registration events in July in those counties.

Labush said some clients didnt receive the emails meant to alert them to what they need to do, and others dont regularly use email. At the end of May, the agency started calling applicants, and homeowners should be receiving letters, too, the agency said.

Applicants should call the agencys hotline at 888-987-2423 if they need assistance.

In Philadelphia, the Residential Mortgage Foreclosure Diversion Program has been tracking homeowners with pending applications and pausing their cases, Labush said, but homeowners in other counties are vulnerable.

A spokesperson for the Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency said the agency has contacted the state office that oversees the courts. He said that office will help get the word out to courts that handle foreclosures and sheriffs sales about the Homeowner Assistance Program and the courts ability to expedite cases in which homeowners are in imminent danger of losing their homes.

In a statement, the agency said it recognizes the urgent need for many Pennsylvanians to receive financial assistance from [the program] and is working diligently and methodically to ensure that federal funds are appropriately distributed.

 READ MORE: N.J. and Pa. homeowners who are struggling because of the pandemic can apply for federal funds (From 2022)

Pennsylvania has until 2025 to distribute the funds, but homeowners across the state are running out of time as foreclosure proceedings continue. In May, Philadelphia was among the major metropolitan areas where lenders started the foreclosure process on the most properties, according to the real estate data company Attom.

A coalition of legal aid groups and housing advocates spoke about the urgency of getting funds to homeowners at a news conference Tuesday in Harrisburg.

We cannot afford to have administrative bureaucracy stand in the way of homeowners accessing those resources, State Rep. Donna Bullock (D., Philadelphia) said during the news conference. We cannot afford to allow homeowners to go into foreclosure, to sheriffs sale, when there are dollars on the table waiting for them.

The program is not accepting new applications, as the state makes its way through the backlog. This month, the Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency plans to post on its website an accounting of applications processed and in progress and funds distributed and remaining.

To be eligible for funds, households could make no more than 150% of the area median income. In the Philadelphia region, thats $141,750 for a family of four. According to federal guidelines, 60% of funds must go to households with incomes at or below 100% of area median income. Thats $94,500 for a family of four.
A prolonged campaign to secure better allowances for the countys elite military forces has finally been won by the military association representing them.

Members of the Army Ranger Wing (ARW), who won major plaudits from senior politicians for their recent roles in Afghanistan and Chad, have for years received significantly less in allowances than elite forces in other countries.

PDforra, which represents enlisted members of the ARW, got an arbitration recommendation in 2010 to get significant improvements to allowances for the troops because of the unique requirements of their job.

However, due to the financial crash, the government did not honour the adjudication. The ARW did manage to get a small increase in 2018 and it was agreed that an upward review of their allowance should be undertaken in 2021.

Army Ranger Wing members. Picture: Eamonn Farrell/RollingNews.ie

PDForra has won a new adjudication which will increase the ARW special allowance by slightly more than 200 per month, backdated to October 2021. This represents an increase of around 27% in their special allowance.

The arbitration board, which convened under the terms of the Conciliation & Arbitration Scheme for the Defence Forces, said there "has been a significant change in the weight of responsibilities on members of the ARW which is not reflected in the quantum of the allowance as presently constituted".

The board said the key characteristics of this change relate to the greatly increased level of international training now required and the increased level of activity due to heightened operational tempo in light of the changed international security context.

They decided that both of these factors impact on the intensity and frequency of assignments, with inevitable consequences on work-life balance for the personnel involved and their ability to take time off, and that ARW members should be entitled to compensation for this.

PDForra general secretary Gerard Guinan said his association is grateful to the arbitration board members for their recommendation.

He said it is appreciated the Department of Defence, in its submission to the board, acknowledged the unique nature of service these members (of the Defence Forces) provide to the State.

PDForra is hopeful that the arrears recommended and the increase in the allowance will be paid shortly, said Mr Guinan.

Having endured a pay reduction for so long, it is incumbent on all parties to make payments in an expedited fashion.

As an association, we are incredibly proud of the service rendered by these personnel in Afghanistan and recently in Chad. They are always willing to put themselves to the forefront of protecting our citizens and the interests of the State.

"If we are to encourage more members to join the Defence Forces, they must be assured that they are going to be paid and equipped appropriately.
One story has dominated the airwaves and the newspapers across the last fortnight and there are no signs that will change any time soon.

The 'secret payments' made from RTE to presenter Ryan Tubridy worth 345,000 across 2017 to 2022 has left the nation shocked, saddened and everything in between.

Two appearances from the RTE executives and board members did nothing to quell the anger from the public and Tubridy's fellow RTE employees.

Irish Examiner columnist and communications expert Terry Prone has been keeping a watchful eye on the unfolding saga and the key players involved.

Here is how she has assessed the scandal so far.

The reputational damage dwarfs the sum involved

Imagine this. Imagine that the head of the parks department in a local authority was being paid, directly, not through the normal payroll, 75,000 per year by  lets say  a company supplying tractors to the local authority.

It couldnt happen. Maybe in the bad old days but not today.

And, in the unlikely event that it did happen, RTEs Prime Time Investigates would get wind of it and expose it as a failure in public service governance.

Read More Terry Prone: The reputational damage to Ryan Tubridy and RTE dwarfs the sum involved

Ryan Tubridy needed to own his faux pas, but he totally missed the point

If you go on the Six One news, being liked by David McCullough shouldnt be your objective. No, lets put that more firmly. It cannot and must not be your objective. The person to reach, inform, and influence is the viewer. Any deflection from that wastes taxpayer money and viewer time.

Someone needs to tell this to Adrian Lynch, the new deputy director general of RTE.

Because Lynch came home from his travels last week, got promoted, arrived at the news studio wearing a cute lapelled cardigan, and got personal with McCullough.

Why was the RTE director general negotiating with an agent?

As the door banged behind Dee Forbes, her final statement arrived.

Most final statements attract cliches such as closing the door, drawing a line, and putting the issue to bed".

This one actually invited door-pushing, drew no effective line, and kept the issue up and awake.

Towards the end of the statement, she apologised unreservedly (when will we ever see someone apologise reservedly?) for my part in this episode".

It has to be asked why shes apologising towards the end of a statement, the bulk of which goes to establish that she did everything out of love for RTE, knew her objectives, didnt go against advice, and generally did everything right.

RTE's statement fails to nail down who came up with the method of deception

Outside RTE were some of the best-known faces from our TV screens  the ones were used to telling us whats what, and asking severe questions of politicians, public servants, and business people.

On Tuesday afternoon, under a threatening sky, those household names and faces were answering, rather than asking, questions.

Answering them with contained fury.

Asserting their pride in their work, their appreciation of their colleagues, and their absolute dissatisfaction with management practices as revealed by the Ryan Tubridy scandal.

RTE's highest-paid shouldnt get freebies  they can buy their own

The one thing thats clear, after the two Oireachtas Committees interrogation of RTEs top brass, is that the Tubridy saga happened because of corporate governance failures.

That confession, oddly, makes everybody comfortable, even the top management from RTE.

Or perhaps especially the top management, who nodded in agreement with their own grave diagnosis over the two days.

Its as if corporate governance was an inanimate object, like the chair Goldilocks broke. What the top brass dont seem to get is that they are corporate governance.
The Government has been accused of ignoring an escalating crisis in nursing homes as over 750 beds have been lost from long-term public facilities.

According to figures from the HSE, there have been 11 public nursing homes either shut or downgraded since 2019, with Nursing Homes Ireland CEO Tadhg Daly saying it is likely due to Health Information and Quality Authority (Hiqa) standards not being met.

Public nursing homes, which represent around 15% of the total bed capacity in the sector, have steadily lost beds over the last four years.

Since 2019, a total of 754 beds were downgraded or lost entirely from public nursing homes. Downgrading of homes means that, rather than closing, they become short-stay nursing homes.

Mr Daly said that, set alongside private and voluntary nursing home closures, the nursing home sector requires further support from the Government.

The Government is ignoring a real crisis in nursing, Mr Daly said. The sector is on its knees at the moment.

A PwC report published at the end of May found that 31 private and voluntary nursing homes had been shut over the last three years, with the loss of 915 beds.

Among its findings were that the cost of operating a nursing home has risen by 36% and that a third of all public nursing homes had posted a loss last year.

We have a Government that is blind to the fact that 33% of private nursing homes lost money last year, Mr Daly said, adding that, despite the closures, public nursing homes are better resourced than private nursing homes.

Sinn Feins health spokesman David Cullinane said private sector nursing homes are starting to become unviable and said that the sector needs additional funding.

The Government has created the circumstances where we are relying on the private sector, which is now becoming unviable, Mr Cullinane said.

Mr Cullinane said that there needs to be a quid pro quo for increased funding to private operators, adding they would need to deliver on better standards and higher pay for staff.

He also said there needs to be a review of the Fair Deal scheme to address the real pressures within the private sector.

Concerns about the scheme were first raised by Hiqa in a report in 2021, when it flagged that Fair Deal was not providing enough funding to nursing homes.

In particular, Mr Cullinane has raised concerns over the HSEs failure to replace the closed nursing homes with new facilities.

None of the public homes that have closed have been replaced. Thats a lot of public beds gone, Mr Cullinane said.

He added that it is not acceptable that the beds are not replaced and called for the Government to implement a large scale building programme for public nursing homes.
United Arab Emirates leader Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan probed, in a meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday, the possibility of establishing trilateral cooperation with Egypt in the Russian Industrial Zone project located in Egypts Suez Canal Economic Zone.

The suggestion came during both leaders meeting in the Saint Petersburg Economic Forum where Putin praised UAE-Russian relations.

The industrial zone agreement was originally signed between Egypt and Russia in 2018 with the aim of attracting investments over the following fifty years.

In 2021 an agreement was made to further expand the zone over an area of five million square metres.

As originally signed, the agreement is set to be renewed this year.

Russia and UAE have closely cooperated as members of the OPEC+ oil alliance and Dubai is one of the rare world capitals to have maintained direct flights to Moscow following the start of the Ukraine conflict in February 2022.

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A man has died after going overboard on a ferry travelling from Belfast to the Scottish village of Cairnryan on Saturday evening.

A full investigation into the incident is currently under way, led by Police Scotland.

Stena Line said the man overboard incident took place at around 6pm as its Superfast VIII vessel approached its destination of Loch Ryan Port.

Emergency response procedures were initiated, including the launch of Stena Lines onboard fast response craft, it said, adding that the alarm was raised with the coastguard and Police Scotland.

Emergency services attended the scene and a search and rescue operation was launched.

Police Scotland said in a statement to PA that the man was taken to University Hospital Ayr, where he was pronounced dead.

Enquiries to establish the full circumstances of the incident remain ongoing, however there are not thought to be any suspicious circumstances, a spokesman said.

A report will be submitted to the Procurator Fiscal.

The Stena Line vessel resumed its sailing schedule at around 8.30pm.
People served by a stricken water supply system in East Cork have spent hundreds of thousands of euro on bottled water due to almost constant boil water notices  and it looks likely theyll have to continue digging deeper into pockets until at least 2026.

Meanwhile, calls that they should be compensated appear to have fallen on deaf ears.

Since early 2016 there have been repeated boil water notices issued to approximately 9,500 people on the Whitegate Water Supply Scheme.

It provides water to Whitegate, Aghada, Cloyne, Saleen, Ballycotton, Ballinacurra, and parts of Midleton.

The supply is coming through highly silted underground channels. Conventional ultraviolet treatment to kill bacteria cannot pass through the silt.

As a result, Uisce Eireann (formerly Irish Water) has on numerous occasions had to issue boil water notices after consultations with the HSE.

Eoin Fitzpatrick initially responded to boil water notices by doing just that  boiling up the kettle for every drop of drinking water his family consumed. However it is so cumbersome that, like most householders in East Cork, he now buys bottled water at great expense. Picture: Denis Minihane

The utilitys last boil water notice was issued last October. It was hoped it would have been discontinued in the summer, but it has been extended for the foreseeable future.

Uisce Eireann put forward a proposal for a 20m upgrade of the supply system, which includes new treatment procedures to make the water safe to drink.

Cork County Council granted planning permission for the upgrade. However, objections have been lodged recently to a new treatment plant and those will have to be decided on by An Bord Pleanala.

The utility had hoped to have the new system operational by the end of 2025. The best-case scenario now is 2026.

Eoin Fitzpatrick and his family live in Ballycotton. He estimates that, since 2016, there have been at least eight boil water notices issued for the scheme with small periods of remittance between them. The 48-year-old married healthcare company manager, who is the father of two teenage boys, said:

During that time I have not seen one water tanker coming into the area.

Eoin said that, for the first couple of notices, he and his family did boil water  but doing so became too cumbersome and, like most householders, he now buys in bottled water.

He said there is constant confusion surrounding information on the boil water notices and, like others, he is critical of the utility companys communications.

If I go on the Uisce Eireann website it can say it [the supply] is OK  but if I go on the Whitegate one it says it isnt, even though theyre on the same system, he said. There was a boil water notice issued in Dublin and the issue was fixed almost immediately. Obviously we are too far from the epicentre of power and we are left to rot.

Access to proper water is a UN human right. Weve been too quiet about this for way too long. Weve water pouring out of the sky yet we have this. Its insane.

His mother, Rita, is fortunate to live next door.

It would be pretty hard for her to lift a five-litre bottle of water on her own. I pity elderly people in the area who dont have help, its not fair on them, Eoin said.

Sean McGrath has owned McGraths pub in Ballycotton for 37 year. Running such a business requires clean water. Ice cant be made from what comes out of the taps.

The pub trade is suffering as it is and he doesnt need the hassle of a boil water notice almost constantly hanging over his head.

The water presented to us isnt fit for purpose. I had to get a water treatment system installed in the bar and it cost me thousands of euro.

On the one hand we get the HSE doing hygiene inspections [in pubs] but, on the other hand, Uisce Eireann is giving us water not fit for purpose, he said.

Sean said that, over the years, when hes had issues with the supply hes had to contact a call centre.

You seem to get on to somebody in India. Theyre very nice and try to help. But trying to explain an issue in Ballycotton to somebody in an Indian call centre isnt easy, he said.

TD tallies the cost The issue has been repeatedly debated at municipal and full county council meetings in the past few years and, more recently, was highlighted in the Dail by Fine Gael Cork East TD David Stanton. Mr Stanton urged the relevant minister for state, Malcolm Noonan, to ask Uisce Eireann about potential compensation for the thousands of customers on the supply scheme. Mr Stanton, who lives in Midleton, said the water supply issue is causing people to buy in bottled water, or boil what comes out of the tap. He said that, considering the increases in electricity prices, it is a further burden on some people who are already struggling financially. Mr Noonan said he would ask the utility about potential compensation and said he accepted almost 10,000 people have been badly affected and put out by having to buy bottled water daily. Its difficult when people have young babies and use baby formula, Mr Noonan said.  Its a huge inconvenience. We all want to see this notice lifted without undue delay but only when the HSE and EPA have confirm the water supply is safe can we do so. I take on board the points the deputy made and will convey them to the minister for housing and, in due course, to Uisce Eireann. However, since then there has been radio silence on the issue and Mr Stanton readily admitted to the Irish Examiner that its not looking like it [compensation] is going to happen. Householders have to spend between 1.39 and 1.49 on 5l of water from their local supermarkets, Mr Stanton said. This adds up to a minimum of 16 per month for a recommended consumption of 2l of water per day, and a minimum of 64 per month for a family of four.

Mr Stanton and county councillors had previously called on numerous occasions for the project to be fast-tracked by the utility, especially considering the number of people impacted and the length of time it has been going on.

Im concerned that there are some people out there who cant afford to keep buying bottled water and they may get ill as a result of drinking the tap water, Mr Stanton said. There are also people who have recently moved into the area who dont appear to know of the boil water issues. Thats another concern.

Local Fine Gael councillor Michael Hegarty said he is worried a decision by An Bord Pleanala could take a long time. He said previously the planning appeals board always issued rigid decision dates. However, since the recent upheavals in the board, many are now not adhered to and it could take many months before a conclusion is reached.

I have been in contact with An Bord Pleanala asking them to fast track the decision-making process because its a substantial piece of infrastructure and the lack of it is causing significant disruption, he added.

Eoin Fitzpatrick lives next door to his mother, Rita Fitzpatrick. 'It would be pretty hard for her to lift a five-litre bottle of water on her own,' he says. 'I pity elderly people in the area who dont have help, its not fair on them.' Picture: Denis Minihane

If Uisce Eireann doesnt provide compensation, there should be a government grant given to those people whore being impacted, Mr Hegarty said. Theres a lot of frustration out there, but it should be easy to work out whos on the water supply line and provide them with some aid.

Susan McCarthy, a councillor who lives in Midleton, said plastic bottles generated by the water problem are an environmental concern too.

This is going on for seven and a half years and nearly 10,000 people are impacted, she said. Can you imagine how many plastic bottles of water have been consumed during that time.

Its a kick in the face to the environment when you have agencies coming up with plans for climate action and youve this. Its a disgrace. Were supposed to be a first-world country.

An Uisce Eireann spokesman said they acknowledge the inconvenience the boil water notices are having on the community and theyre continuously working towards lifting them as soon as its safe to do so.
Israel carried out air strikes on areas near the central Syrian city of Homs early on Sunday, causing material damage but no casualties, the Syrian military said in a statement.

A Syrian anti-aircraft missile exploded over Israeli territory, the Israeli military said, prompting another round of strikes.

Syrian state media quoted an unnamed military official as saying the air defences shot down some of the missiles fired by Israeli warplanes flying over neighbouring Lebanon.

Israeli authorities did not comment on the air strike on Homs. But the military said one of the Syrian air defence missiles exploded over Israeli territory without causing any damage.

Israeli police said the rockets remains landed in the southern Israeli city of Rahat.

In response to the rocket, Israeli jets struck the air defence battery from where the anti-aircraft rocket was launched. The military said it also struck other targets, without elaborating.

Israel, which has vowed to stop Iranian entrenchment next door, has carried out hundreds of strikes on targets in government-controlled parts of neighbouring Syria in recent years, but it rarely acknowledges them.

The last suspected Israeli air strike on Syria was on June 14, near the capital, Damascus, and injured one soldier.

Israel has also targeted the international airports in Damascus and the northern Syrian city of Aleppo several times over the past few years, often putting it out of commission.
The patriots at the Key Biscayne Rotary Club will once again offer the Rotary Liberty Grill & Picnic on the Village Green during and after the 4th of July Parade. This year, the Rotarians offerings are reinforced with the addition of Tank Brewery.

The folks at the local Tank Brewery are sponsoring the picnic, offering their delicious, cold, craft brews. Tank beers are a great pairing with Rotarys Americana fare of hamburgers, hot dogs, fresh-squeezed lemonade, beverages and watermelon.

Co-Chairs Bob Brookes and Joe Kellogg shared that the world-famous Rotary Mojo Burger is back! This delicacy has been a staple of our events for over 30 years. Not to be missed!

The Rotary Liberty Grill will be open from 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. on the east side of the Village Green across from the reviewing stand.

Rotary Club of Key Biscayne incoming President Mayra Mesa, said, Beer for Good, Food for Good. What could be better? Mesas employer, Amerant Bank, also is a sponsor of the event after opening a new Key Biscayne branch on June 26.

The event is a fundraiser for local and world-wide charitable and humanitarian projects the Rotary Club of Key Biscayne undertakes each year, including providing anti-malaria nets in remote jungles of Colombia, Peru and Venezuela; books and school supplies for underprivileged children in Liberty City; school rebuilding in earthquake ravaged Haiti; schools and sanitation facilities in Ghana; childrens mental health programs in South Florida; and more.

The Rotary Club of Key Biscayne was founded in 1979 with the motto Service Above Self as its guiding principle. The members of the club are community-minded individuals joined together in the quest to make a positive difference in our community and the world.

For additional information, or to participate with Rotary, please contact Bob Brookes at rckbfinfo@yahoo.com.
Three Palestinian shepherds, including a child, were injured today in an attack by Israeli settlers northwest of the ancient city of Jericho, in the occupied West Bank, the Palestinian News Agency WAFA reported.

Settlers chased the shepherds while they were grazing their sheep in al-Mleihat community, threatened them at gunpoint, and forced them to leave the pastures, Hasan Mleihat, an activist with the Bedouin community said.

He said two men and a 10-year-old child were injured in the attack.

Settlers regularly attack shepherds in the pastures and force them to leave the area.

The incident came amid a wave of Israeli attacks on Palestinian villages in the West Bank over the last week.

On Tuesday and Wednesday, approximately 200 Israeli settlers, some armed and under the protection of the Israeli army, carried out a brutal attack on the Palestinian village of Turmus Ayya in the central West Bank, murdering one Palestinian and wounding dozens of others. They also burned 30 houses, 60 cars and dozens of olive trees.

Later, the extremist Israeli settlers stormed a mosque in Urif, vandalized the building and to ripped pages out of the Quran before discarding it in the street. Settlers also set fire to a school and attempted to burn down houses.

UN estimates indicate that about 700,000 illegal settlers are living in 164 settlements and 116 outposts in the occupied West Bank and occupied Jerusalem.

Under international law, all Israeli settlements in the occupied territories are considered illegal.

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This Week in Review

A weekly review of the best and most popular stories published in the Imperial Valley Press. Also, featured upcoming events, new movies at local theaters, the week in photos and much more.
More than 65,000 tax disputes, spanning seven years, have been settled away from court, said Finance Minister Mohamed Maait.

The move came following President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi's directives to settle tax disputes swiftly out of court, Maait added in a statement on Saturday.

According to the finance minister, more than 65,000 tax disputes dating from September 2016 to May 2023 have been settled away from court, with a total value of more than EGP 51.5 billion.

He further said that a law was drafted to settle all the accumulated tax files, thus creating a suitable environment for business and encouraging investors to expand their activities in the Egyptian market.

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The Saudi-based Organisation of Islamic Cooperation on Sunday called for collective measures to avoid future Quran burnings, days after a copy was torched outside a Stockholm mosque.

The 57-member body met at its Jeddah headquarters to respond to Wednesday's incident in which an Iraqi citizen living in Sweden, Salwan Momika, 37, stomped on the Islamic holy book and set several pages alight.

It coincided with the start of the Eid al-Adha holiday and the end of the annual hajj pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia, sparking anger across the Muslim world.

On Sunday, the OIC urged member states to "take unified and collective measures to prevent the recurrence of incidents of desecration of copies of the" Quran, according a statement released after the "extraordinary" meeting.

The body's secretary general, Hissein Brahim Taha, "stressed the need to send a clear message that acts of desecration" of the Quran are "not mere ordinary Islamophobia incidents," the statement said.

"We must send constant reminders to the international community regarding the urgent application of international law, which clearly prohibits any advocacy of religious hatred."

Taha condemned Momika's Quran burning as "a despicable act", echoing widespread denunciations that have included demonstrations near the Swedish embassy in Iraq's capital.

Countries including Iraq, Kuwait, the United Arab Emirates and Morocco have summoned Swedish ambassadors in protest.

On Sunday, Iran's Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian said Iran is holding off sending its new ambassador to Sweden, Hojjatollah Faghani, over the burning of the Quran outside a mosque in Stockholm.

Swedish police had granted Momika a permit in line with free speech protections, but authorities later said they had opened an investigation over "agitation".

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By John Quiggin, The University of Queensland | 

We use energy in everything we do, but few of us understand it properly. Much of the time this doesnt matter. We can flick a light switch or turn the ignition key in a car, knowing the technology will work whether we understand it or not. Even something as simple as the distinction between alternating current and direct current is a mystery to most people without a scientific education.

But thanks to climate change, we can no longer be comfortably ignorant. A better understanding of energy systems is urgently needed if we are to transform those systems successfully.

Review: Powering Up: Unleashing the Clean Supply Energy Chain  Alan Finkel (Black Inc.)

The science of climate change is complex  too complex for any individual to comprehend completely. It encompasses physics, chemistry, time-series statistics and computer modelling, among many other issues. But by now, thanks to the work of communicators like the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, most of us understand the basics.

The exception to this general understanding is the shrinking group of self-described sceptics, determined not to understand. Members of this group pride themselves on doing their own research. This catchphrase does not mean undertaking years of intensive training in science and research methods, then applying it to the study of complex problems, but rather using Google to find talking points that confirm my prior beliefs.

The central findings of climate research can be simply summarised. Over the course of the 20th century, we used more and more energy, the great majority of it derived from burning carbon-based fuels  oil, coal and natural (methane) gas. The result has been a buildup of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases in the atmosphere, trapping more of the Suns heat and radiating less back to outer space.

This process has already caused the global climate to heat up, with some disastrous results, such as wildfires and heatwaves. Global heating will inevitably continue, as will climate-related disasters. If we are to avoid truly catastrophic damage, we need a rapid transition to carbon-free sources of energy for electricity, transport and industrial uses.

A necessary guide

But which sources should we be pursuing, and is a rapid transition possible?

There are many issues to address. We must consider not only choices between technologies, but the balance between changing energy sources, promoting energy efficiency, and simply consuming less energy. As with the science of climate change, most of us lack the time and training to research these issues. We need a reliable guide.

Alan Finkel  formerly Australias chief scientist  has provided us with the guide we need. His new book, Powering Up, covers most of the issues relating to the energy transition in a way that is approachable and readable, without oversimplification.

The book begins by describing the magnitude of the energy transition we face. The process may be summed up very simply as decarbonise electricity and electrify everything. But that simple statement hides a great many complexities.

Nevertheless, Finkel argues, the massive reductions in the cost of solar photovoltaic cells and wind energy mean that the problem, while massive in scale, is economically manageable and will ultimately yield benefits.

Finkel gives an accessible explanation of the distinction between energy (the ability of a system to do things) and power (how quickly energy is generated and used). This is important in understanding variable energy sources, such as solar, and in explaining energy storage systems, such as batteries.

Critical minerals

The first two chapters of Powering Up deal with the minerals required for the energy transition, often referred to as critical minerals. These minerals have been the subject of many hand-wringing opinion pieces about inadequate supply and the damage caused by mining. However, as Finkel shows, most of these worries are misplaced. So-called rare earths, for example, are neither rare nor earths.

The only really problematic case is that of cobalt, mostly produced in the Democratic Republic of Congo by an industry that employs around 200,000 workers, many of them children, under appalling conditions.

This is a big problem, but there are ways to resolve it. Most obviously, the companies that mine the cobalt could pay their workers a living wage  as some, at least, have promised to do. If workers were paid US$10,000 a year, well above the average for Africa as a whole, the total wage bill would only be $2 billion a year, a trivial amount in the context of the global energy economy.

Alternatively, as Finkel shows, it would be possible to source cobalt from other countries, including Australia, or to switch to somewhat less efficient technologies based on manganese. The lesson of history is that, just as the cemetery is full of indispensable men, there is no single mineral so critical that civilisation would grind to a halt without it.

The next two chapters focus on the core of the transition to an electricity system based on solar photovoltaic and wind generation. This would need to be backed up by batteries, pumped hydro, and other technologies for firming (dealing with short-run fluctuations) and storage (dealing with mismatches between the time electricity is generated, and the time it is needed).

In this context, renewable is a somewhat unfortunate term  what matters is low emissions. In particular, the term excludes nuclear power and allows potentially problematic sources, such as burning biomass.

However, as Finkel observes, nuclear power is no longer a relevant issue for Australia. There is no prospect of nuclear power here before 2040, by which time all coal-fired plants will be closed, and gas will play at most a marginal role. Globally, it makes sense to extend the lives of existing nuclear plants, but new nuclear power cant compete with the combination of renewables and storage.

Getting the transition right is a complex problem. Finkel discusses the sorry history of energy policy over the past decade or so (a period in which we worked together as members of the Climate Change Authority). This period of failure included the rejection of the Clean Energy Target, which he recommended to the Turnbull government, and the creation of the misnamed and misbegotten Energy Security Board, now thankfully abolished.

Finkel considers what might emerge from the current rather chaotic situation, in which a variety of government initiatives interact with the remains of the artificial electricity market that emerged from the reforms of the 1990s. Looking to the future, he provides a guide to the exciting possibilities of the hydrogen economy, and the opportunity to use Australias massive endowment of sun and wind as the basis of an energy export industry to replace coal and gas.

This would include a revived green steel industry, in which direct reduction of iron ore using hydrogen would replace the blast-furnace technology that has been dominant since the 19th century. A hydrogen-based steel industry will require the use of magnetite, the highest-quality form of iron ore, with which we are also well endowed.

One disappointment in this chapter is Finkels failure to give adequate weight to direct export of electricity using high-voltage direct current. Projects such as Sun Cable, which aims to export Australian electricity to Singapore and other destinations, seem at least as promising as hydrogen.

Finkel concludes with a discussion of some of the complex political and social issues surrounding the energy transition in Australia and globally. His treatment of these issues is measured and sensible, but doesnt match the depth of his analysis of the technical issues in the main body of the book. It would be wonderful to have a summary of the policy issues as accessible and comprehensive as Finkels overview of the technological issues.

In the meantime, this is a book that everyone interested in the energy transition should read.

John Quiggin, Professor, School of Economics, The University of Queensland

This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.

Featured Image: Andrey Metelev/Unsplash, CC BY-SA
( Globalvoices.org )  The Ghaith family, living in Jerusalems Muslim Quarter since 1945, has been fighting forced eviction from their home for four decades. Israeli settler organizations persist in their efforts to displace them and seize their home for Jewish settlement. The recent court ruling favored the settler group and left the family unprotected.

Nora Ghaiths family has lived in this house since 1948. The family obtained a rent contract from the Jordanian government in 1953, which assumed custodianship of Jerusalem in 1950 in the aftermath of 1948 Nakbah (Catastrophe).

The Nakbah led to the destruction of Palestinian society and the displacement of over 700,000 indigenous Palestinians to make room for the establishment of Israel.

Palestinians were forced to leave their lives and properties behind, and for the last seven decades they have been fighting for their right to return home.

Since 1953, the Ghaith family has been classified as protected tenants, safeguarding them from eviction as long as this status holds.

Despite the 1967 Naksa (setback), when Israel assumed control of the West Bank and Gaza Strip, in what the UN deemed as an illegal annexation, the family has maintained their designation and faithfully paid rent to the Israeli General Custodian.

In a WhatsApp conversation between Global Voices and human rights activist Raafat Sub Laban  Nora Ghaiths son, and a UNHCR employee  he shed light on his familys connection with the house. His father Mustafa Sub Laban, 73 years old, joined his wife Nora, who is now 68 years old, at the time of their marriage in 1978, and they have been living there ever since. Sub Laban elaborates:

My mother lived there all her life. In the 1970s, the Shuvu Banim settler movement tried to blackmail my uncle [Noras brother] to acquire the tenancy rights. He was the head of the family after his parents death. However, upon his refusal, the settler orchestrated his deportation to Jordan. My mother and father assumed responsibility for the house at that point.

The Sub Laban family has deep roots in Jerusalem, predating the establishment of Israel by decades. Their lineage traces back to a Sufi scholar who moved to Jerusalem in 1692. The family had several properties, including the notable building that houses the Rockefeller Archaeological Museum in Jerusalem, confiscated by Israel in 1948 and 1967. This historical context explains the familys home attachment, as described by Sub Laban.

We have always been conscious that this property is the last remaining one for my parents, and it has been important for us to safeguard it. We always made sure to maintain a presence in the house. Our properties were confiscated by Israel, and as Palestinians we are denied the right to reclaim ownership. Meanwhile, Jewish individuals are granted the right to reclaim property, regardless of ownership. This is simply unfair.

In the 1970s, Israel enacted an administrative law that perpetuates a system of apartheid and discrimination, by favoring Jews over non-Jews. It allows settlers to reclaim pre-1948 Jewish-owned properties in East Jerusalem, even if unrelated. However, Palestinians are denied the right to claim their own properties in West Jerusalem. This law has been exploited by settler organizations to undermine Palestinian ownership rights across East Jerusalem.

A lifelong legal battle

The Ghaith Sub Laban family has been entangled in a 40-year legal battle against settler groups.

According to Israeli NGO Ir Amim, dedicated to promoting a more equitable Jerusalem, the familys case involves the Atara Leyoshna group affiliated with the Ateret Cohanim, a notorious settler organization known for its efforts to Judaize Jerusalem and displace indigenous residents, including a high-profile attempt to seize iconic Christian hotel properties near Jaffa Gate.

Sub Laban highlights that other Palestinian families have faced a gradual eviction:

The apartment next door to my familys home, which was originally occupied by the Karaki family, who were forcibly evicted in 1982 or 1983. The settlers then expanded the apartment and blocked my familys entrance. The only means to enter the apartment was though a neighbors unit. In response, my parents pursued legal action and endured a 17-year-old wait until a judge finally allowed them to open a new entrance.

In May 2010, based on the 1970s law, the General Custodian transferred the ownership of the Ghaith-Sub Laban property to Atara Leyoshna.

Shortly after gaining ownership, Atara Leyoshna initiated an eviction claim against the family. The case reached the Supreme Court in 2016. The court ruled to evict Nora and Mustafas children but granted the couple, as protected tenants, the right to remain in their home for an additional 10 years, breaking the family apart.

In 2018, Israeli settlers launched another eviction lawsuit, claiming that Nora and Mustafa had violated the terms of their protected tenancy by spending time away from home. Nora needed medical assistance and temporarily stayed at Raafats residence in Shofat camp, where he had moved with his younger sister after their eviction. This arrangement was necessary, as per Raafats account, the children were prohibited from staying overnight with their parents.

In early 2018, my mother went on an Umrah pilgrimage. She already had issues with discs in her lower back and neck, which worsened during the journey. As she required assistance while recovering, she stayed with me. The settlers closely monitored my parents movement using cameras, and they noticed my mothers absence. However, my father traveled between their home and my residence during that time.

The settlers exploited Noras absence during her recovery to argue that she had forfeited her protected tenancy status. Despite having medical records from Israeli health service providers as evidence, the lower court unjustly ruled in favor of the settler group. The familys request to appeal against the decision was recently rejected by the Supreme Court.

Unexpected allies fight with the family

Nora and Mustafa are facing imminent eviction, scheduled between June 28 and July 23, 2023. Exhausting all legal avenues, their only hope now lies in government intervention, which can be influenced by public pressure and advocacy efforts, as per Raafats account.

Free Jerusalem, a collective of radical Israeli activists based in West Jerusalem, is dedicated to resisting Israeli apartheid and supporting Palestinians in occupied Jerusalem. Their mission encompasses fighting against family displacements, home demolitions, police brutality, settler violence, among other unjust practices and policies carried out by Israel.

The movement has been supporting the Ghaith Sub Laban family since 2015. They have been providing round-the-clock support to the family at their home to garner attention and solidarity from both Israeli and international communities.

In a WhatsApp conversation with Global Voices, Gal Kramarski, a spokesperson for the movement, exposed Israels complex and influential mechanism designed to displace Palestinians and expel them from Jerusalem, creating opportunities for Zionist settlers to replace them. She highlighted the manipulation of discriminatory laws through a pseudo-legal process to forcefully evict families and leave them homeless.
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Ann Arbor (Informed Comment)  Late in 2022, the Biden administration announced that it had given upon on negotiating a restoration of the 2015 Iran nuclear deal (the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action or JCPOA), which Donald Trump destroyed in May 2018 by ripping it up and slapping what amounts to a financial and trade embargo on Iran.

Precisely because of the incredible severity of US sanctions on Iran, which went so far as to prevent the country from freely selling its own petroleum on the world market, however, the US and Iran still have a relationship. It is just a very tense and a very bad one. And they continue to have bilateral issues that need resolving.

As the Soufan Center rightly says, these include Irans alleged provision to Russia of drones for use against Ukraine and the possibility that it will supply Moscow with missiles, as well. Iran-backed militias have sent rockets onto the US base in Syria at Tanf, and the US has bombarded them in return. Iran holds three Iranian-American dual citizens and a green card holder in unfair detention. Iran has also been acting out, angry at being subjected to severe sanctions even though it had mothballed 80% of its civilian nuclear enrichment program in return for sanctions relief. It has enriched small amounts of uranium to 60%. You need 95% or so to have fissile material for a bomb.

The vise-like grip to which Washington has been subjecting the Iranian economy is extremely dangerous, because it puts the two countries on a war footing. No country is going to quietly accept being treated like that. Iran has acted out through stealth attacks on oil shipping in the Gulf and even by a drone attack in 2019 on Saudi Arabias key Abqaiq refinery. During Trumps roller coaster ride of a presidency, the two countries more than once came close to open hostilities, which could have spiraled down into a shooting war. Then chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Mark Milley expressed concerns about this situation.

The problem is that the situation has not improved under Biden, who has kept all of Trumps maximum pressure sanctions in place. It is even to the extent that the Iranian national bank was designated a terrorist organization, which discourages charitable organizations from trying to send money and supplies, since they could be charged for material support of terrorism just by dealing in the Iranian currency, the riyal.

The Biden administration also seems worried about being slammed as Iran-lovers in the 2024 election cycle by the increasingly fascist Republicans, most of whom say they will brook no compromise.

The administrations response has therefore been to engage in low-key talks with Iran at out-of-the-way sites such as Muscat in Oman and Doha in Qatar, where there isnt much press attention. The hope appears to be to achieve some informal understandings that will reduce tensions, rather than a full-fledged treaty on the JCPOA model. As I noted last month, Iran admits that these talks are taking place.

This development is taking place in tandem with an easing of Iran-Saudi tensions, brokered by China, which is also worried about war breaking out in the Gulf, given its dependence on Middle East petroleum.

One carrot the US can offer in these talks is Treasury Department waivers on sanctions imposed by its Office of Foreign Asset Control (OFAC). To show that the administration is talking in earnest, in June it issued a waiver to Iran allowing Baghdad to transfer to Iran the nearly $3 billion it owed its neighbor for fuel, electricity and other items of bilateral trade. This waiver, which protected Iran from Treasury Department sanctions for trading with Iran, appears to have been issued as a confidence-building step on the part of the US.

Another $7 billion or so is sequestered in banks in countries such as South Korea, Japan and India, who purchased petroleum from Iran before the May 2018 sanctions were suddenly imposed, but who have never been able to pay for it for fear of OFAC.That money, too, could be released to Iran through a waiver.

Article continues after bonus IC video

Al Jazeera English: Nuclear bomb fears are a false excuse: Irans Khamenei

Reining in the Shiite militia attacks on the some 900 US troops in Syria could be one quid pro quo. Another may be a pledge to cease supplying drones to Moscow, and to refrain from giving Russia any missiles. Yet another could be to destroy its tiny stock of uranium enriched to 60% and to cease enriching to that level. Releasing the four Iranian-American hostages is another. These are relatively small asks, but have the advantage that Tehran could easily deliver on them. Given the state of the Iranian economy under sanctions, another $7 billion in waivers, on top of the $3 billion already issued, for a total of $10 bn. could well serve as sufficient motivation to coming to these understandings.

Moreover, any understandings at all are preferable to the war footing on which Trump placed the US regarding Iran. In the current situation, with hard liners on both sides eager to act as spoilers, such quiet, small steps may be the best that can be hoped for. With the Ukraine War sucking all the air out of the room for any other focus of US diplomacy, moreover, they are probably all Washington has the attention span for.
The Ministry of Emigration and Egyptian Expatriates Affairs established a task force to assist in locating missing family members who were performing Hajj in Saudi Arabia, according to a statement released on Sunday.

Minister of Emigration Soha Gendy initiated the procedure following appeals from families who lost their family members during Hajj rituals in Mecca, Saudi Arabia.

The statement indicated that the task force will collaborate with the Egyptian embassy in Saudi Arabia and other relevant authorities in the country to coordinate its efforts.

The minister confirmed that if the missing person is found to have passed away, the family will have the option to bury them in either Saudi Arabia or Egypt.

Hajj, which takes place over five or six days from the 8th to the 12th of Dhul Hijjah, the twelfth month of the Muslim lunar calendar, is mandatory for financially capable able-bodied Muslims at least once in their lifetime and is performed at the Kaaba in Mecca.

This year's Hajj took place from 26 June to 1 July, and due to temperatures reaching 48 degrees Celsius, up to 2,000 people suffered from heat stress.

As of 30 June, 30 individuals have passed away, as reported by their respective countries, with no cause of death specified.

Gendy conveyed condolences to those who lost family members during Hajj and affirmed the emigration ministry's unwavering commitment to providing assistance to all Egyptians residing abroad.

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A gated fence leads into the site of the former Hippodrome racetrack, a vacant lot that the city of Montreal plans to develop into affordable housing, in Montreal, Thursday, June 29, 2023. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Christinne Muschi
By Kevin Githuku

The United Kingdom has issued a travel advisory to its citizens against Uganda, citing increased terrorism threats.

This follows the June 16th attack on a school in Mpondwe, Kasese district by suspected Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) rebels that left at least 43 people dead.

The Commonwealth & Development Office says the travel advice aims to inform British nationals so they can make decisions about travelling to Uganda.

In a statement, it says terrorists are very likely to try to carry out attacks in Uganda, which could be indiscriminate or against foreign nationals or places frequented by foreign nationals.

It thus advises British nationals to be vigilant at all times, especially in crowded areas and public places like hotels, transport hubs, restaurants, and bars, and during major gatherings like sporting or religious events and when in close proximity to government buildings or security installations such as police stations.

One of the recent attacks by suspected terrorists was on November 16, 2021, when assailants used two explosive devices in central Kampala, killing 4 and injuring 33 people. Two further explosive devices were disarmed by the police.

On October 25, 2021, terrorists used an explosive device on a bus travelling on the Kampala-Masaka road near Mpigi killing, one person.

On October 23, 2021, terrorists used an explosive device to attack a restaurant in Kamamboga, a suburb in the northeast of Kampala, killing one person and injuring others.

The Uganda Police Force regularly issues alerts, particularly around public holidays or religious events.
SalamAir, Omans value-for-money airline, has announced a firm commitment to lease three Airbus A330neo aircraft from Avolon, an international aircraft leasing company.



A letter of intent was signed at the Paris Air Show on June 19 and the first delivery is expected to be in October 2023.



The introduction of three new Airbus A330neo wide-body aircraft will bring significant advantages to SalamAir and support the airlines fleet and network expansion plans. These modern aircraft feature a dual-class configuration with 365 economy seats and 12 premium flatbed seats, allowing for enhanced passenger comfort and capacity. The A330neo offers a substantial increase in distance compared to SalamAir's existing fleet.



One notable advantage of the A330neo is its improved fuel efficiency, resulting in reduced fuel consumption and lower CO2 emissions when compared to previous-generation aircraft. This contributes to a decrease in operational costs for the airline, aligning with their commitment to environmental sustainability.



Captain Mohamed Ahmed, CEO of SalamAir, said: The decision to introduce the Airbus A330neo complements the existing fleet of Airbus aircraft, which includes the A320neo, A321neo, and an A321 freighter. By adding the A330neo to the fleet, SalamAir aims to enhance its capacity, meet the growing demands of the market, and attract more inbound tourists, aligning with the objectives of Oman's Vision 2040.



The extended range of the A330neo will allow SalamAir to efficiently serve medium-range destinations, particularly in the Far East and Europe. This expanded reach not only improves passenger convenience but also enhances the airline's competitiveness in the market. It enables SalamAir to strengthen its network and seize opportunities for further growth and expansion.



Mikail Houari, President, Airbus Africa and Middle East said: "We are delighted that SalamAir has chosen the A330neo aircraft which offers unique operational versatility with cost and environmental benefits. The A330neo stands out among the wide-body segment with its superior fuel efficiency and range, advanced aerodynamics and technologies, as well as enhanced passenger comfort due to its spacious cabin."



Paul Geaney, President and Chief Commercial Officer, Avolon said: We are delighted to welcome SalamAir as a new customer, bringing the fuel-efficiency benefits of the A330neo to another airline. Since their launch, SalamAirs low-cost model has proven a great success, and these new aircraft will support their plans to offer their growing number of passengers greater capacity and comfort. The expansion of aviation traffic in the Middle East is set to continue and the region is a focus for further leasing opportunities for Avolon.  TradeArabia News Service
Five people have been killed and 11 others injured after suspected jihadists fired a rocket-propelled grenade at a town in northeast Nigeria's Borno state, two anti-jihadist militia commanders told AFP on Sunday.

Scores of fighters attempted to invade the town of Damboa late on Friday but met stiff resistance from the anti-jihadist militia, a paramilitary outfit that works alongside the armed forces, the militia said.

The attack is the latest in Nigeria's 14-year jihadist conflict in the northeast, where 40,000 have died and more than two million have been displaced by the fighting since 2009.

"Out of desperation, the insurgents fired an RPG (rocket-propelled grenade) on the town from a distance, which killed five people and injured 11 others," said Babakura Kolo, a militia leader in the region.

The five dead victims were buried on Saturday while the injured were flown to the regional capital Maiduguri aboard a helicopter for medical attention, said Ibrahim Liman, a second militia commander.

Nigeria's army, whose troops were in the town guarding the military base, did not immediately respond to a call seeking comment.

Damboa, around 90 kilometres (55 miles) south of Maiduguri, which lies on the fringes of the Sambisa forest, a game reserve that has become a jihadist enclave, has been repeatedly targeted by fighters who attack residents and a military base.

Although the Boko Haram jihadist group and its rival, the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), commonly launch RPG attacks on military targets, they rarely use them on civilians.

Boko Haram has on several occasions fired volleys of rocket-propelled grenades on Maiduguri in bids to take over the city, the latest being in February 2021, when 10 people were killed and around 60 were injured, according to officials.

In February, on the day of a presidential election, at least five people were injured when jihadists fired several mortar bombs on voters from mountains overlooking the town of Gwoza on the border with Cameroon.

In September 2017, seven people were killed when Boko Haram jihadists in two pick-up trucks fired a rocket-propelled grenade into a displaced people's camp housing some 80,000 people in the town of Ngala, also near the border with Cameroon.

Nigeria's President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who came to power in May, has said tackling insecurity is a priority as troops battle jihadists and heavily armed criminal gangs while also trying to end intercommunal clashes and separatist tensions in various parts of the country.

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Iowa Governor Terry Branstad fields questions from the Senate Foreign Relations Committee during his confirmation hearing to be U.S. Ambassador to China.
Palestinian sources reported that Jewish settlers stormed the Al-Aqsa Mosque Sunday from the Mughrabi Gate under heavy security from the Israeli occupation forces, according to DPA.

The Palestinian News and Information Agency (Wafa) quoted the sources as saying that "dozens of settlers stormed Al-Aqsa Mosque, organized provocative tours in its courtyards, and performed Talmudic rituals."

According to Wafa, "Al-Aqsa Mosque witnesses daily series of violations and incursions by settlers - except for Fridays and Saturdays - under the protection of the occupation police, in an attempt to impose full control over the mosque, and divide it temporally and spatially."

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Woman dies after tree falls on her car during Saturdays severe weather in St. Louis
Absa Group Limited (OTCMKTS:AGRPY  Free Report)s stock price passed below its 200-day moving average during trading on Friday . The stock has a 200-day moving average of $20.42 and traded as low as $17.52. Absa Group shares last traded at $18.47, with a volume of 1,322 shares trading hands.

Absa Group Price Performance

The stock has a 50-day simple moving average of $17.85 and a 200-day simple moving average of $20.40.

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Absa Group Cuts Dividend

The business also recently disclosed a dividend, which was paid on Thursday, May 4th. Investors of record on Friday, April 21st were paid a $0.5416 dividend. This represents a yield of 5.36%. The ex-dividend date was Thursday, April 20th. Absa Groups payout ratio is 46.51%.

Absa Group Company Profile

Absa Group Limited, together with its subsidiaries, provides retail, business, corporate, investment banking, insurance, financial, and wealth management products and services in South Africa and internationally. It offers retail and business banking products and services; residential property-related finance solutions; vehicle and asset finance products and services; credit cards; personal loans; corporate, relationship and transactional banking services; and savings and investment products and services.

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Shares of Lennox International Inc. (NYSE:LII  Free Report) have been assigned a consensus rating of Hold from the twelve ratings firms that are presently covering the stock, MarketBeat reports. Two analysts have rated the stock with a sell recommendation, six have given a hold recommendation and four have issued a buy recommendation on the company. The average 12-month price target among brokerages that have covered the stock in the last year is $261.58.

LII has been the subject of several research reports. Barclays boosted their price objective on shares of Lennox International from $248.00 to $272.00 in a research note on Friday, April 28th. StockNews.com initiated coverage on shares of Lennox International in a research note on Thursday, May 18th. They issued a hold rating for the company. Robert W. Baird upped their target price on shares of Lennox International from $272.00 to $300.00 in a research note on Friday, April 28th. Morgan Stanley decreased their target price on shares of Lennox International from $279.00 to $272.00 and set an equal weight rating for the company in a research note on Wednesday, April 5th. Finally, Wells Fargo & Company decreased their target price on shares of Lennox International from $300.00 to $283.00 and set an overweight rating for the company in a research note on Thursday, April 13th.

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Lennox International Stock Performance

Shares of LII stock opened at $326.07 on Friday. Lennox International has a one year low of $202.97 and a one year high of $328.77. The company has a 50 day moving average price of $292.80 and a 200 day moving average price of $265.31. The firm has a market capitalization of $11.58 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 22.72, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 3.03 and a beta of 0.92.

Lennox International Increases Dividend

Lennox International ( NYSE:LII Free Report ) last released its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, April 27th. The construction company reported $2.83 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $2.42 by $0.41. Lennox International had a net margin of 10.76% and a negative return on equity of 200.13%. The company had revenue of $1.05 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $1.03 billion. During the same period in the previous year, the firm earned $2.36 earnings per share. Lennox Internationals revenue for the quarter was up 3.6% on a year-over-year basis. As a group, equities analysts forecast that Lennox International will post 15.25 EPS for the current fiscal year.

The firm also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, July 14th. Shareholders of record on Friday, June 30th will be issued a dividend of $1.10 per share. This represents a $4.40 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 1.35%. This is a boost from Lennox Internationals previous quarterly dividend of $1.06. The ex-dividend date is Thursday, June 29th. Lennox Internationals dividend payout ratio is 30.66%.

Insiders Place Their Bets

In other Lennox International news, Director Sherry Buck bought 350 shares of the companys stock in a transaction on Monday, May 1st. The shares were bought at an average cost of $285.02 per share, with a total value of $99,757.00. Following the completion of the acquisition, the director now owns 2,388 shares of the companys stock, valued at $680,627.76. The acquisition was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through the SEC website. In other Lennox International news, CFO Joseph William Reitmeier sold 2,808 shares of the stock in a transaction on Wednesday, May 10th. The shares were sold at an average price of $282.17, for a total transaction of $792,333.36. Following the sale, the chief financial officer now directly owns 23,986 shares of the companys stock, valued at $6,768,129.62. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which can be accessed through the SEC website. Also, Director Sherry Buck acquired 350 shares of the companys stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, May 1st. The stock was purchased at an average cost of $285.02 per share, for a total transaction of $99,757.00. Following the acquisition, the director now owns 2,388 shares in the company, valued at $680,627.76. The disclosure for this purchase can be found here. Over the last three months, insiders have sold 5,527 shares of company stock valued at $1,574,120. Company insiders own 2.80% of the companys stock.

Institutional Trading of Lennox International

A number of large investors have recently modified their holdings of LII. Captrust Financial Advisors increased its holdings in shares of Lennox International by 662.1% in the 2nd quarter. Captrust Financial Advisors now owns 4,085 shares of the construction companys stock worth $844,000 after acquiring an additional 3,549 shares during the period. Lazard Asset Management LLC acquired a new stake in shares of Lennox International in the 3rd quarter worth about $104,000. Allstate Corp acquired a new stake in shares of Lennox International in the 3rd quarter worth about $651,000. Caisse DE Depot ET Placement DU Quebec bought a new position in Lennox International in the 3rd quarter valued at about $201,000. Finally, Bank of New York Mellon Corp grew its position in Lennox International by 2.6% in the 3rd quarter. Bank of New York Mellon Corp now owns 404,068 shares of the construction companys stock valued at $89,973,000 after buying an additional 10,227 shares in the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 68.43% of the companys stock.

About Lennox International

(Free Report

Lennox International Inc, together with its subsidiaries, designs, manufactures, and markets a range of products for the heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration markets in the United States, Canada, and internationally. It operates through three segments: Residential Heating & Cooling, Commercial Heating & Cooling, and Refrigeration.

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BlackRock Innovation and Growth Term Trust (NYSE:BIGZ  Free Report) saw a large increase in short interest in the month of June. As of June 15th, there was short interest totalling 144,700 shares, an increase of 71.4% from the May 31st total of 84,400 shares. Based on an average daily trading volume, of 780,800 shares, the short-interest ratio is presently 0.2 days.

BlackRock Innovation and Growth Term Trust Stock Performance

Shares of BIGZ traded up $0.09 during trading hours on Friday, hitting $7.85. The stock had a trading volume of 981,686 shares, compared to its average volume of 861,014. The firm has a 50 day simple moving average of $7.56 and a 200-day simple moving average of $7.44. BlackRock Innovation and Growth Term Trust has a 1-year low of $6.47 and a 1-year high of $9.59.

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BlackRock Innovation and Growth Term Trust Dividend Announcement

The business also recently declared a monthly dividend, which was paid on Friday, June 30th. Shareholders of record on Thursday, June 15th were paid a dividend of $0.07 per share. The ex-dividend date was Wednesday, June 14th. This represents a $0.84 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 10.70%.

Hedge Funds Weigh In On BlackRock Innovation and Growth Term Trust

About BlackRock Innovation and Growth Term Trust

A number of hedge funds have recently added to or reduced their stakes in BIGZ. UBS Group AG boosted its stake in BlackRock Innovation and Growth Term Trust by 75.6% during the 1st quarter. UBS Group AG now owns 3,898,263 shares of the companys stock valued at $44,401,000 after purchasing an additional 1,677,919 shares during the last quarter. City of London Investment Management Co. Ltd. lifted its position in shares of BlackRock Innovation and Growth Term Trust by 83.2% during the 4th quarter. City of London Investment Management Co. Ltd. now owns 3,454,095 shares of the companys stock worth $23,574,000 after buying an additional 1,569,045 shares in the last quarter. Saba Capital Management L.P. bought a new position in shares of BlackRock Innovation and Growth Term Trust during the 3rd quarter worth approximately $10,135,000. Logan Stone Capital LLC lifted its position in shares of BlackRock Innovation and Growth Term Trust by 605.0% during the 4th quarter. Logan Stone Capital LLC now owns 1,464,392 shares of the companys stock worth $9,973,000 after buying an additional 1,256,691 shares in the last quarter. Finally, OTA Financial Group L.P. lifted its position in shares of BlackRock Innovation and Growth Term Trust by 241.4% during the 4th quarter. OTA Financial Group L.P. now owns 1,276,755 shares of the companys stock worth $8,694,000 after buying an additional 902,765 shares in the last quarter.

(Free Report)

BlackRock Innovation and Growth Term Trust is a mutual fund launched by BlackRock, Inc and managed by BlackRock Advisors, LLC. BlackRock Innovation and Growth Term Trust is based in United States.

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Morgan Stanley began coverage on shares of Carrefour (OTCMKTS:CRRFY  Free Report) in a report published on Wednesday morning, The Fly reports. The firm issued an overweight rating on the stock.

Carrefour Stock Up 2.4 %

Carrefour stock opened at $3.85 on Wednesday. The stocks 50 day moving average is $3.80 and its 200 day moving average is $3.78. Carrefour has a one year low of $2.72 and a one year high of $4.21. The company has a quick ratio of 0.63, a current ratio of 0.89 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.64.

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Carrefour Announces Dividend

The company also recently disclosed a dividend, which was paid on Wednesday, June 28th. Stockholders of record on Wednesday, June 7th were given a dividend of $0.084 per share. This represents a dividend yield of 2.29%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Tuesday, June 6th.

About Carrefour

Carrefour SA operates stores in various formats and channels in France, Spain, Italy, Belgium, Poland, Romania, Brazil, and Argentina. The company operates hypermarkets, supermarkets, convenience stores, and cash and carry stores; e-commerce sites; and service stations. Its stores offer fresh produce; local products; and non-food products, including electronic and household appliances, textiles, childcare, and seasonal products.

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Hovde Group upgraded shares of Community Bank System (NYSE:CBU  Free Report) from a market perform rating to an outperform rating in a report published on Wednesday, The Fly reports.

Several other research firms also recently commented on CBU. Janney Montgomery Scott began coverage on Community Bank System in a research note on Tuesday, March 14th. They set a buy rating and a $66.00 price objective for the company. Piper Sandler decreased their price target on Community Bank System from $54.00 to $50.00 in a report on Wednesday, April 26th. StockNews.com initiated coverage on shares of Community Bank System in a research note on Thursday, March 16th. They issued a sell rating on the stock. Keefe, Bruyette & Woods reduced their target price on shares of Community Bank System from $64.00 to $57.00 and set a market perform rating for the company in a research note on Thursday, April 6th. Finally, TheStreet lowered shares of Community Bank System from a b- rating to a c+ rating in a research note on Tuesday, April 11th. One research analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, two have given a hold rating and three have given a buy rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat, the stock has a consensus rating of Hold and a consensus target price of $59.00.

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Community Bank System Stock Performance

Shares of CBU opened at $46.88 on Wednesday. The companys 50 day simple moving average is $49.10 and its 200-day simple moving average is $54.60. The firm has a market cap of $2.52 billion, a PE ratio of 17.30 and a beta of 0.61. Community Bank System has a 12-month low of $44.26 and a 12-month high of $72.86. The company has a current ratio of 0.68, a quick ratio of 0.68 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.05.

Community Bank System Announces Dividend

Community Bank System ( NYSE:CBU Free Report ) last issued its quarterly earnings data on Tuesday, April 25th. The bank reported $0.86 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of $0.95 by ($0.09). Community Bank System had a return on equity of 12.33% and a net margin of 21.64%. The business had revenue of $124.53 million for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $153.75 million. As a group, equities analysts predict that Community Bank System will post 3.37 EPS for the current year.

The business also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, July 10th. Stockholders of record on Thursday, June 15th will be given a dividend of $0.44 per share. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Wednesday, June 14th. This represents a $1.76 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 3.75%. Community Bank Systems payout ratio is 64.94%.

Institutional Trading of Community Bank System

Institutional investors have recently bought and sold shares of the company. Benjamin Edwards Inc. grew its holdings in Community Bank System by 159.2% during the 1st quarter. Benjamin Edwards Inc. now owns 547 shares of the banks stock valued at $29,000 after buying an additional 336 shares during the last quarter. Quadrant Capital Group LLC increased its position in Community Bank System by 80.4% during the 4th quarter. Quadrant Capital Group LLC now owns 487 shares of the banks stock worth $31,000 after purchasing an additional 217 shares in the last quarter. Lazard Asset Management LLC acquired a new position in Community Bank System in the 4th quarter valued at about $31,000. Eagle Bay Advisors LLC acquired a new position in Community Bank System in the 2nd quarter valued at about $32,000. Finally, Covestor Ltd lifted its holdings in Community Bank System by 82.8% in the 1st quarter. Covestor Ltd now owns 585 shares of the banks stock valued at $41,000 after purchasing an additional 265 shares in the last quarter. 71.97% of the stock is currently owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

Community Bank System Company Profile

(Free Report)

Community Bank System, Inc operates as the bank holding company for Community Bank, N.A. that provides various banking and other financial services to retail, commercial, and municipal customers. It operates through three segments: Banking, Employee Benefit Services, and All Other. The company offers various deposits products, such as interest and noninterest -bearing checking, savings, and money market deposit accounts, as well as time deposits.

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Keppel REIT (OTCMKTS:KREVF  Free Report) and Advanced Oxygen Technologies (OTCMKTS:AOXY  Free Report) are both finance companies, but which is the better business? We will compare the two businesses based on the strength of their institutional ownership, profitability, valuation, analyst recommendations, earnings, risk and dividends.

Volatility and Risk

Keppel REIT has a beta of 0.4, suggesting that its share price is 60% less volatile than the S&P 500. Comparatively, Advanced Oxygen Technologies has a beta of -0.62, suggesting that its share price is 162% less volatile than the S&P 500.

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Profitability

This table compares Keppel REIT and Advanced Oxygen Technologies net margins, return on equity and return on assets.

Net Margins Return on Equity Return on Assets Keppel REIT N/A N/A N/A Advanced Oxygen Technologies 2.16% 0.25% 0.12%

Analyst Recommendations

Sell Ratings Hold Ratings Buy Ratings Strong Buy Ratings Rating Score Keppel REIT 0 2 1 0 2.33 Advanced Oxygen Technologies 0 0 0 0 N/A

This is a summary of current ratings and target prices for Keppel REIT and Advanced Oxygen Technologies, as provided by MarketBeat.

Valuation & Earnings

This table compares Keppel REIT and Advanced Oxygen Technologies gross revenue, earnings per share (EPS) and valuation.

Gross Revenue Price/Sales Ratio Net Income Earnings Per Share Price/Earnings Ratio Keppel REIT $159.10 million 15.80 $294.12 million N/A N/A Advanced Oxygen Technologies $40,000.00 14.06 $60,000.00 N/A N/A

Keppel REIT has higher revenue and earnings than Advanced Oxygen Technologies.

Summary

Keppel REIT beats Advanced Oxygen Technologies on 5 of the 8 factors compared between the two stocks.

About Keppel REIT

(Free Report)

Listed by way of an introduction on 28 April 2006, Keppel REIT is one of Asia's leading real estate investment trusts with a portfolio of prime commercial assets in Asia Pacific's key business districts. Keppel REIT's objective is to generate stable income and sustainable long-term total return for its Unitholders by owning and investing in a portfolio of quality income-producing commercial real estate and real estate-related assets in Asia Pacific. Keppel REIT has a portfolio value of over $9.0 billion, comprising properties in Singapore; the key Australian cities of Sydney, Melbourne and Perth; Seoul, South Korea; as well as Tokyo, Japan. Keppel REIT is sponsored by Keppel Land Limited, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Keppel Corporation Limited. It is managed by Keppel REIT Management Limited, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Keppel Capital Holdings Pte. Ltd. (Keppel Capital). Keppel Capital is the asset management arm of Keppel Corporation, a Singapore-headquartered global asset manager and operator with strong expertise in sustainability-related solutions spanning the areas of energy & environment, urban development and connectivity. Keppel Capital has a diversified portfolio of real estate, infrastructure, data centres and alternative assets in key global markets.

About Advanced Oxygen Technologies

(Free Report)

Advanced Oxygen Technologies, Inc., through its subsidiaries, owns and leases a commercial real estate property in Vojens, Denmark. It also distributes and sells cargo security straps and tie downs. The company was formerly known as Aquanautic Corporation. The company was incorporated in 1981 and is based in Randolph, Vermont.

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Egypt released goods worth around $32 billion in the past five months, with priority given to food manufacturing components and production supplies, the Ministry of Finance announced.

The Minister of Finance, Mohamed Maait, said on Sunday that over the past five months, the authorities at various ports and outlets granted customs clearance for imported goods, commodities, and products worth approximately $32 billion.

Maait added that priority is given to essential goods; food manufacturing components; medications; and production supplies that ensure the smooth operation of the production cycle.

Furthermore, he noted that the government has reduced fees and penalties to ease the burden on importers.

The minister further emphasized the governments commitment to securing the state's strategic stockpile of essential goods to meet the needs of the citizens.

This is crucial in maintaining sufficient quantities of goods in the local markets and creating favourable conditions for price stability, Maait said.

Securing these quantities, he said, demonstrates how the government aims to minimize the adverse impacts of the war in Europe, which caused disruptions in supply chains and an unprecedented surge in global prices for goods and services.

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Fenimore Asset Management Inc. trimmed its position in Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. (NYSE:AJG  Free Report) by 3.4% in the 1st quarter, according to the company in its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The firm owned 460,435 shares of the financial services providers stock after selling 16,438 shares during the period. Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. accounts for 2.3% of Fenimore Asset Management Inc.s investment portfolio, making the stock its 17th biggest position. Fenimore Asset Management Inc.s holdings in Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. were worth $88,086,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

Other large investors have also recently bought and sold shares of the company. Texas Permanent School Fund boosted its holdings in Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. by 0.7% in the 4th quarter. Texas Permanent School Fund now owns 29,956 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $5,648,000 after purchasing an additional 195 shares during the period. Trust Co. of Vermont lifted its holdings in shares of Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. by 52.4% during the 1st quarter. Trust Co. of Vermont now owns 1,448 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $277,000 after acquiring an additional 498 shares during the last quarter. Toronto Dominion Bank lifted its holdings in shares of Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. by 18.3% during the 4th quarter. Toronto Dominion Bank now owns 113,992 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $21,482,000 after acquiring an additional 17,651 shares during the last quarter. Townsquare Capital LLC lifted its holdings in shares of Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. by 17.8% during the 4th quarter. Townsquare Capital LLC now owns 6,702 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $1,263,000 after acquiring an additional 1,012 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Stratos Wealth Advisors LLC lifted its holdings in shares of Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. by 1.9% during the 4th quarter. Stratos Wealth Advisors LLC now owns 3,061 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $577,000 after acquiring an additional 58 shares during the last quarter. 85.55% of the stock is owned by institutional investors.

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Insider Activity at Arthur J. Gallagher & Co.

In related news, insider Susan E. Pietrucha sold 57,419 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction dated Wednesday, May 3rd. The shares were sold at an average price of $211.21, for a total transaction of $12,127,466.99. Following the transaction, the insider now owns 5 shares in the company, valued at $1,056.05. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through this link. In related news, insider Susan E. Pietrucha sold 57,419 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction dated Wednesday, May 3rd. The shares were sold at an average price of $211.21, for a total transaction of $12,127,466.99. Following the transaction, the insider now owns 5 shares in the company, valued at $1,056.05. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through this link. Also, Director David S. Johnson sold 1,000 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction dated Friday, June 16th. The shares were sold at an average price of $216.40, for a total transaction of $216,400.00. Following the transaction, the director now owns 46,538 shares in the company, valued at approximately $10,070,823.20. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Insiders have sold 101,503 shares of company stock worth $21,433,355 over the last 90 days. 1.60% of the stock is owned by company insiders.

Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. Price Performance

AJG stock opened at $219.57 on Friday. The firms 50-day moving average price is $210.39 and its two-hundred day moving average price is $197.93. Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. has a 12-month low of $160.60 and a 12-month high of $220.63. The stock has a market capitalization of $47.04 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 40.74, a PEG ratio of 2.26 and a beta of 0.70. The company has a current ratio of 1.06, a quick ratio of 1.06 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.61.

Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. (NYSE:AJG  Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, April 27th. The financial services provider reported $3.03 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $3.00 by $0.03. Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. had a net margin of 13.22% and a return on equity of 18.86%. The firm had revenue of $2.67 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $2.67 billion. As a group, equities analysts predict that Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. will post 8.71 earnings per share for the current year.

Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. Announces Dividend

The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, June 16th. Shareholders of record on Friday, June 2nd were given a $0.55 dividend. This represents a $2.20 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 1.00%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Thursday, June 1st. Arthur J. Gallagher & Co.s payout ratio is 40.82%.

Analyst Ratings Changes

A number of research firms have recently issued reports on AJG. Raymond James lifted their price objective on shares of Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. from $240.00 to $245.00 in a report on Tuesday, June 20th. Keefe, Bruyette & Woods dropped their price objective on shares of Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. from $213.00 to $211.00 and set a market perform rating for the company in a report on Friday, March 17th. StockNews.com initiated coverage on shares of Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. in a report on Thursday, May 18th. They set a hold rating for the company. Jefferies Financial Group lifted their target price on shares of Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. from $238.00 to $245.00 in a research report on Friday, June 16th. Finally, Citigroup lifted their target price on shares of Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. from $228.00 to $232.00 in a research report on Tuesday, April 18th. Four analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating, eight have assigned a buy rating and one has issued a strong buy rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the company presently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $224.57.

Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. Profile

(Free Report)

Arthur J. Gallagher & Co, together with its subsidiaries, provides insurance and reinsurance brokerage, consulting, and third-party property/casualty claims settlement and administration services to businesses and organizations worldwide. It operates in Brokerage and Risk Management segments. The Brokerage segment offers retail and wholesale insurance and reinsurance brokerage services; assists retail brokers and other non-affiliated brokers in the placement of specialized and hard-to-place insurance; and acts as a brokerage wholesaler, managing general agent, and managing general underwriter for distributing specialized insurance coverages to underwriting enterprises.

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Want to see what other hedge funds are holding AJG? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. (NYSE:AJG  Free Report).

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KeyCorp (NYSE:KEY  Free Report) has been assigned a consensus rating of Hold from the fourteen brokerages that are presently covering the company, MarketBeat Ratings reports. One analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, six have given a hold rating and seven have assigned a buy rating to the company. The average 1 year price target among analysts that have updated their coverage on the stock in the last year is $14.93.

A number of equities analysts have recently commented on KEY shares. 888 reiterated a maintains rating on shares of KeyCorp in a report on Tuesday, June 13th. TheStreet lowered KeyCorp from a b- rating to a c+ rating in a research note on Monday, May 1st. Wells Fargo & Company decreased their price target on KeyCorp from $20.00 to $17.00 and set an overweight rating for the company in a research note on Friday, April 21st. StockNews.com started coverage on KeyCorp in a research note on Thursday, May 18th. They set a sell rating for the company. Finally, Robert W. Baird raised KeyCorp from a neutral rating to an outperform rating and set a $20.00 price target for the company in a research note on Friday, March 10th.

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Insider Transactions at KeyCorp

In other news, insider Amy G. Brady sold 12,388 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction on Thursday, May 25th. The stock was sold at an average price of $10.11, for a total value of $125,242.68. Following the completion of the transaction, the insider now directly owns 106,733 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $1,079,070.63. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is available at this hyperlink. In related news, insider Amy G. Brady sold 12,388 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction on Thursday, May 25th. The stock was sold at an average price of $10.11, for a total transaction of $125,242.68. Following the transaction, the insider now directly owns 106,733 shares in the company, valued at approximately $1,079,070.63. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which can be accessed through this link. Also, insider Victor B. Alexander bought 8,500 shares of the companys stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, April 21st. The shares were acquired at an average price of $11.83 per share, for a total transaction of $100,555.00. Following the completion of the purchase, the insider now owns 117,196 shares in the company, valued at $1,386,428.68. The disclosure for this purchase can be found here. In the last three months, insiders purchased 85,700 shares of company stock valued at $857,507. Corporate insiders own 0.61% of the companys stock.

Institutional Trading of KeyCorp

KeyCorp Price Performance

Several large investors have recently added to or reduced their stakes in KEY. FMR LLC grew its stake in KeyCorp by 391.4% during the 1st quarter. FMR LLC now owns 20,763,994 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $259,965,000 after purchasing an additional 16,538,866 shares during the last quarter. BlackRock Inc. grew its stake in KeyCorp by 10.3% during the 1st quarter. BlackRock Inc. now owns 89,759,881 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $1,123,794,000 after purchasing an additional 8,391,787 shares during the last quarter. Norges Bank purchased a new stake in KeyCorp during the 4th quarter valued at about $134,162,000. Federated Hermes Inc. grew its stake in KeyCorp by 21.0% during the 1st quarter. Federated Hermes Inc. now owns 20,409,671 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $255,529,000 after purchasing an additional 3,544,491 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Marshall Wace LLP grew its stake in KeyCorp by 2,228.2% during the 3rd quarter. Marshall Wace LLP now owns 2,593,491 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $41,548,000 after purchasing an additional 2,482,098 shares during the last quarter. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 79.69% of the companys stock.

Shares of KeyCorp stock opened at $9.24 on Friday. The stock has a market cap of $8.64 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 5.22, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 1.46 and a beta of 1.25. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.92, a quick ratio of 0.86 and a current ratio of 0.86. The stock has a 50 day moving average price of $9.96 and a 200-day moving average price of $14.00. KeyCorp has a one year low of $8.53 and a one year high of $20.30.

KeyCorp (NYSE:KEY  Free Report) last announced its earnings results on Thursday, April 20th. The financial services provider reported $0.44 EPS for the quarter, hitting analysts consensus estimates of $0.44. The firm had revenue of $1.71 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $1.80 billion. KeyCorp had a return on equity of 15.63% and a net margin of 19.09%. The companys quarterly revenue was up 1.1% on a year-over-year basis. During the same quarter in the previous year, the business earned $0.45 EPS. Equities analysts expect that KeyCorp will post 1.49 EPS for the current year.

KeyCorp Dividend Announcement

The business also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Thursday, June 15th. Stockholders of record on Tuesday, May 30th were given a $0.205 dividend. This represents a $0.82 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 8.87%. The ex-dividend date was Friday, May 26th. KeyCorps payout ratio is 46.33%.

About KeyCorp

(Free Report

KeyCorp operates as the holding company for KeyBank National Association that provides various retail and commercial banking products and services in the United States. It operates in two segments, Consumer Bank and Commercial Bank. The company offers various deposits, investment products and services; and personal finance and financial wellness, student loan refinancing, mortgage and home equity, lending, credit card, treasury, business advisory, wealth management, asset management, investment, cash management, portfolio management, and trust and related services to individuals and small and medium-sized businesses.

Further Reading

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Landis+Gyr Group AG (OTCMKTS:LGYRF  Free Report) saw a significant increase in short interest in the month of June. As of June 15th, there was short interest totalling 12,000 shares, an increase of 114.3% from the May 31st total of 5,600 shares. Based on an average trading volume of 0 shares, the days-to-cover ratio is currently  days.

Landis+Gyr Group Price Performance

Shares of Landis+Gyr Group stock remained flat at $92.00 during midday trading on Friday. The stock has a 50 day simple moving average of $81.00 and a 200 day simple moving average of $77.79. Landis+Gyr Group has a 52 week low of $92.00 and a 52 week high of $92.00.

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Landis+Gyr Group Company Profile

(Free Report)

Further Reading

Landis+Gyr Group AG, together with its subsidiaries, provides integrated energy management solutions to utility sector in the Americas, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, South America, Canada, and the Asia Pacific. The company offers prepayment electricity, commercial/industrial and grid, and non-smart and smart gas meters; heat and water meters and solutions; load control devices; and system deployment, and managed network solutions.

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LATAM Airlines Group (OTCMKTS:LTMAY  Free Report) and Global Crossing Airlines Group (OTCMKTS:JETMF  Free Report) are both transportation companies, but which is the superior business? We will contrast the two companies based on the strength of their dividends, valuation, earnings, profitability, analyst recommendations, risk and institutional ownership.

Insider and Institutional Ownership

3.9% of Global Crossing Airlines Group shares are held by institutional investors. 7.8% of LATAM Airlines Group shares are held by company insiders. Comparatively, 26.8% of Global Crossing Airlines Group shares are held by company insiders. Strong institutional ownership is an indication that hedge funds, endowments and large money managers believe a company is poised for long-term growth.

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Profitability

This table compares LATAM Airlines Group and Global Crossing Airlines Groups net margins, return on equity and return on assets.

Net Margins Return on Equity Return on Assets LATAM Airlines Group 18.02% -45.94% 13.64% Global Crossing Airlines Group -15.16% N/A -20.00%

Analyst Recommendations

Sell Ratings Hold Ratings Buy Ratings Strong Buy Ratings Rating Score LATAM Airlines Group 0 1 0 0 2.00 Global Crossing Airlines Group 0 0 0 0 N/A

This is a summary of recent ratings and price targets for LATAM Airlines Group and Global Crossing Airlines Group, as reported by MarketBeat.

Risk & Volatility

LATAM Airlines Group has a beta of 3.24, meaning that its share price is 224% more volatile than the S&P 500. Comparatively, Global Crossing Airlines Group has a beta of 20.41, meaning that its share price is 1,941% more volatile than the S&P 500.

Valuation and Earnings

This table compares LATAM Airlines Group and Global Crossing Airlines Groups gross revenue, earnings per share (EPS) and valuation.

Gross Revenue Price/Sales Ratio Net Income Earnings Per Share Price/Earnings Ratio LATAM Airlines Group $9.36 billion 34.91 $1.34 billion N/A N/A Global Crossing Airlines Group $97.11 million 0.58 -$15.82 million ($0.32) -3.13

LATAM Airlines Group has higher revenue and earnings than Global Crossing Airlines Group.

Summary

LATAM Airlines Group beats Global Crossing Airlines Group on 5 of the 9 factors compared between the two stocks.

About LATAM Airlines Group

(Free Report)

LATAM Airlines Group S.A., together with its subsidiaries, provides passenger and cargo air transportation services primarily in Chile, Peru, Ecuador, Colombia, Brazil, other Latin American countries, the Caribbean, North America, Europe, and Oceania. It offers other services, such as ground handling, courier, logistics, and maintenance services. The company was formerly known as LAN Airlines S.A. and changed its name to LATAM Airlines Group S.A. in June 2012. LATAM Airlines Group S.A. was founded in 1929 and is headquartered in Santiago, Chile.

About Global Crossing Airlines Group

(Free Report)

Global Crossing Airlines Group Inc. operates in the airline business in the United States, Europe, Canada, and Central and South America. It operates a US Part 121 flag and supplemental airline using the Airbus A320 family of aircraft, as well as the Airbus A321 freighter. The company offers aircraft, crew, and maintenance and insurance using wet lease contracts to airlines and non-airlines; and passenger aircraft charter services. As of December 31, 2022, it operated a fleet of eight aircraft. The company is based in Miami, Florida.

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Lawson Kroeker Investment Management Inc. NE increased its position in Brookfield Asset Management Ltd. (NYSE:BAM  Free Report) (TSE:BAM.A) by 95.5% in the first quarter, according to the company in its most recent filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The fund owned 162,122 shares of the financial services providers stock after acquiring an additional 79,178 shares during the period. Lawson Kroeker Investment Management Inc. NEs holdings in Brookfield Asset Management were worth $5,305,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

Other hedge funds have also added to or reduced their stakes in the company. UMB Bank n.a. purchased a new stake in Brookfield Asset Management during the 1st quarter valued at $35,000. Ronald Blue Trust Inc. raised its stake in Brookfield Asset Management by 146.4% during the 4th quarter. Ronald Blue Trust Inc. now owns 1,003 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $41,000 after buying an additional 596 shares during the last quarter. BNP Paribas Arbitrage SA raised its stake in Brookfield Asset Management by 35.5% during the 2nd quarter. BNP Paribas Arbitrage SA now owns 1,057 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $47,000 after buying an additional 277 shares during the last quarter. RE Dickinson Investment Advisors LLC purchased a new stake in Brookfield Asset Management during the 4th quarter valued at $48,000. Finally, Allspring Global Investments Holdings LLC raised its stake in Brookfield Asset Management by 1,995.1% during the 1st quarter. Allspring Global Investments Holdings LLC now owns 1,718 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $56,000 after buying an additional 1,636 shares during the last quarter. 57.29% of the stock is currently owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

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Analyst Ratings Changes

BAM has been the subject of a number of research reports. Keefe, Bruyette & Woods lowered shares of Brookfield Asset Management to an underperform rating in a research note on Tuesday, April 18th. Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft began coverage on shares of Brookfield Asset Management in a research report on Tuesday, May 30th. They set a hold rating for the company. Royal Bank of Canada reissued an outperform rating and set a $40.00 price objective on shares of Brookfield Asset Management in a research report on Tuesday, March 28th. Finally, StockNews.com began coverage on shares of Brookfield Asset Management in a research report on Thursday, May 18th. They set a hold rating for the company. One investment analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, three have given a hold rating, four have given a buy rating and one has given a strong 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 $43.57.

Brookfield Asset Management Stock Up 1.2 %

Shares of Brookfield Asset Management stock opened at $32.63 on Friday. The company has a fifty day moving average of $32.08 and a 200 day moving average of $31.95. Brookfield Asset Management Ltd. has a fifty-two week low of $26.76 and a fifty-two week high of $36.50.

Brookfield Asset Management (NYSE:BAM  Free Report) (TSE:BAM.A) last issued its earnings results on Wednesday, May 10th. The financial services provider reported $0.32 earnings per share for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of $0.33 by ($0.01). The company had revenue of $966.00 million for the quarter. On average, analysts anticipate that Brookfield Asset Management Ltd. will post 1.35 earnings per share for the current year.

Brookfield Asset Management Dividend Announcement

The company also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, June 30th. Investors of record on Wednesday, May 31st were issued a $0.32 dividend. This represents a $1.28 annualized dividend and a yield of 3.92%. The ex-dividend date was Tuesday, May 30th.

Brookfield Asset Management Company Profile

(Free Report)

Brookfield Asset Management Ltd. provides alternative asset management services. Its renewable power and transition business includes the ownership, operation, and development of hydroelectric, wind, solar, and energy transition power generating assets. The company's infrastructure business engages in the ownership, operation, and development of utilities, transport, midstream, data and sustainable resource assets.

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Truist Financial upgraded shares of Louisiana-Pacific (NYSE:LPX  Free Report) from a hold rating to a buy rating in a research report sent to investors on Wednesday morning, The Fly reports. Truist Financial currently has $82.00 price objective on the building manufacturing companys stock, up from their previous price objective of $49.00.

Several other research analysts have also weighed in on the stock. StockNews.com lowered shares of Louisiana-Pacific from a hold rating to a sell rating in a report on Thursday, May 11th. TD Securities raised shares of Louisiana-Pacific from a hold rating to a buy rating and raised their price objective for the stock from $63.00 to $75.00 in a report on Thursday, May 4th. Finally, DA Davidson raised their price objective on shares of Louisiana-Pacific from $60.00 to $65.00 in a report on Thursday, May 4th. One analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, two have assigned a hold rating and two have issued a buy rating to the company. According to MarketBeat.com, Louisiana-Pacific currently has an average rating of Hold and an average price target of $69.50.

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Louisiana-Pacific Stock Performance

Louisiana-Pacific stock opened at $74.98 on Wednesday. Louisiana-Pacific has a 12-month low of $48.20 and a 12-month high of $75.50. The company has a market capitalization of $5.40 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 9.42 and a beta of 1.64. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.24, a current ratio of 3.11 and a quick ratio of 1.30. The firms fifty day moving average price is $63.08 and its 200 day moving average price is $61.41.

Louisiana-Pacific Dividend Announcement

Louisiana-Pacific ( NYSE:LPX Free Report ) last released its quarterly earnings results on Wednesday, May 3rd. The building manufacturing company reported $0.34 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $0.07 by $0.27. Louisiana-Pacific had a net margin of 19.05% and a return on equity of 37.43%. The firm had revenue of $584.00 million for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $618.23 million. During the same quarter in the previous year, the firm posted $5.08 EPS. The firms quarterly revenue was down 56.3% on a year-over-year basis. On average, research analysts forecast that Louisiana-Pacific will post 2.58 EPS for the current fiscal year.

The firm also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, May 26th. Stockholders of record on Friday, May 12th were issued a $0.24 dividend. This represents a $0.96 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 1.28%. The ex-dividend date was Thursday, May 11th. Louisiana-Pacifics dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 12.06%.

Institutional Inflows and Outflows

Several hedge funds and other institutional investors have recently modified their holdings of the business. Nations Financial Group Inc. IA ADV acquired a new position in Louisiana-Pacific during the 4th quarter valued at about $202,000. Harvest Fund Management Co. Ltd boosted its stake in Louisiana-Pacific by 6,016.0% during the 4th quarter. Harvest Fund Management Co. Ltd now owns 1,529 shares of the building manufacturing companys stock valued at $91,000 after purchasing an additional 1,504 shares during the period. Natixis boosted its stake in Louisiana-Pacific by 21.5% during the 4th quarter. Natixis now owns 369,899 shares of the building manufacturing companys stock valued at $21,898,000 after purchasing an additional 65,500 shares during the period. Valeo Financial Advisors LLC boosted its stake in Louisiana-Pacific by 7.2% during the 1st quarter. Valeo Financial Advisors LLC now owns 8,255 shares of the building manufacturing companys stock valued at $448,000 after purchasing an additional 555 shares during the period. Finally, First Trust Advisors LP boosted its stake in Louisiana-Pacific by 2.9% during the 3rd quarter. First Trust Advisors LP now owns 3,614,296 shares of the building manufacturing companys stock valued at $185,015,000 after purchasing an additional 102,847 shares during the period. 87.75% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

Louisiana-Pacific Company Profile

(Free Report)

Louisiana-Pacific Corporation, together with its subsidiaries, provides building solutions primarily for use in new home construction, repair and remodeling, and outdoor structure markets. It operates through: Siding, Oriented Strand Board, and South America. The Siding segment offers LP SmartSide trim and siding products, LP SmartSide ExpertFinish trim and siding products, LP BuilderSeries lap siding products, and LP Outdoor Building Solutions; and engineered wood siding, trim, soffit, and fascia products.

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Axfood AB (publ) (OTCMKTS:AXFOF  Free Report) is one of 62 public companies in the Grocery Stores industry, but how does it contrast to its peers? We will compare Axfood AB (publ) to related businesses based on the strength of its earnings, dividends, risk, analyst recommendations, valuation, profitability and institutional ownership.

Dividends

Axfood AB (publ) pays an annual dividend of $15.00 per share and has a dividend yield of 54.3%. Axfood AB (publ) pays out 73.4% of its earnings in the form of a dividend. As a group, Grocery Stores companies pay a dividend yield of 4.1% and pay out 62.3% of their earnings in the form of a dividend.

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Institutional & Insider Ownership

13.8% of Axfood AB (publ) shares are held by institutional investors. Comparatively, 45.3% of shares of all Grocery Stores companies are held by institutional investors. 22.8% of shares of all Grocery Stores companies are held by insiders. Strong institutional ownership is an indication that large money managers, hedge funds and endowments believe a stock will outperform the market over the long term.

Analyst Ratings

Sell Ratings Hold Ratings Buy Ratings Strong Buy Ratings Rating Score Axfood AB (publ) 1 0 1 0 2.00 Axfood AB (publ) Competitors 1121 2752 3007 114 2.30

This is a breakdown of current ratings and target prices for Axfood AB (publ) and its peers, as reported by MarketBeat.

As a group, Grocery Stores companies have a potential upside of 100.25%. Given Axfood AB (publ)s peers stronger consensus rating and higher probable upside, analysts plainly believe Axfood AB (publ) has less favorable growth aspects than its peers.

Profitability

This table compares Axfood AB (publ) and its peers net margins, return on equity and return on assets.

Net Margins Return on Equity Return on Assets Axfood AB (publ) N/A N/A N/A Axfood AB (publ) Competitors 2.07% 14.53% 4.72%

Valuation & Earnings

This table compares Axfood AB (publ) and its peers revenue, earnings per share (EPS) and valuation.

Gross Revenue Net Income Price/Earnings Ratio Axfood AB (publ) N/A N/A 1.35 Axfood AB (publ) Competitors $26.96 billion $611.52 million 192.81

Axfood AB (publ)s peers have higher revenue and earnings than Axfood AB (publ). Axfood AB (publ) 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.

Summary

Axfood AB (publ) peers beat Axfood AB (publ) on 11 of the 13 factors compared.

About Axfood AB (publ)

(Free Report)

Axfood AB (publ) engages in the food retail and wholesale businesses in Sweden. It operates through Willys, Hemkop, Dagab, and Snabbgross segments. The company sells groceries through Willys, Hemkop, Eurocash, and Mat.se store chains. It is also involved in the e-commerce business; and provision of private label products. In addition, it offers home delivery of meal kits under the Middagsfrid name, as well as operates Urban Deli, a combination of restaurant and market hall; and Apohem, an online pharmacy. The company serves restaurants, fastfood operators, and cafes; and retailer-owned stores, mini-marts, service stations, and other convenience retailers. Axfood AB (publ) was founded in 1958 and is headquartered in Stockholm, Sweden. Axfood AB (publ) is a subsidiary of Axel Johnson AB.

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Digital Media Solutions (NYSE:DMS  Free Report) and American Well (NYSE:AMWL  Free Report) are both small-cap business services companies, but which is the superior business? We will contrast the two businesses based on the strength of their risk, institutional ownership, valuation, profitability, earnings, analyst recommendations and dividends.

Institutional and Insider Ownership

30.6% of Digital Media Solutions shares are held by institutional investors. Comparatively, 48.8% of American Well shares are held by institutional investors. 82.3% of Digital Media Solutions shares are held by company insiders. Comparatively, 12.9% of American Well shares are held by company insiders. Strong institutional ownership is an indication that hedge funds, endowments and large money managers believe a stock is poised for long-term growth.

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Profitability

This table compares Digital Media Solutions and American Wells net margins, return on equity and return on assets.

Net Margins Return on Equity Return on Assets Digital Media Solutions -11.02% N/A -10.25% American Well -216.13% -26.40% -23.33%

Earnings & Valuation

Gross Revenue Price/Sales Ratio Net Income Earnings Per Share Price/Earnings Ratio Digital Media Solutions $391.15 million 0.06 -$31.95 million ($1.05) -0.31 American Well $277.19 million 2.13 -$270.43 million ($2.14) -0.98

This table compares Digital Media Solutions and American Wells revenue, earnings per share and valuation.

Digital Media Solutions has higher revenue and earnings than American Well. American Well is trading at a lower price-to-earnings ratio than Digital Media Solutions, indicating that it is currently the more affordable of the two stocks.

Analyst Recommendations

This is a summary of current ratings and price targets for Digital Media Solutions and American Well, as provided by MarketBeat.

Sell Ratings Hold Ratings Buy Ratings Strong Buy Ratings Rating Score Digital Media Solutions 0 1 1 0 2.50 American Well 0 5 3 0 2.38

Digital Media Solutions presently has a consensus target price of $3.50, suggesting a potential upside of 962.22%. American Well has a consensus target price of $4.28, suggesting a potential upside of 103.57%. Given Digital Media Solutions stronger consensus rating and higher probable upside, analysts clearly believe Digital Media Solutions is more favorable than American Well.

Risk & Volatility

Digital Media Solutions has a beta of 0.96, indicating that its stock price is 4% less volatile than the S&P 500. Comparatively, American Well has a beta of 0.76, indicating that its stock price is 24% less volatile than the S&P 500.

Summary

Digital Media Solutions beats American Well on 11 of the 14 factors compared between the two stocks.

About Digital Media Solutions

(Free Report)

Digital Media Solutions, Inc. operates as a digital performance marketing company that offers a software delivery platform in the United States. The company operates through three segments: Brand Direct, Marketplace, and Technology Solutions. It operates as a performance marketing engine for companies across various industries, including consumer finance, e-commerce, education, insurance, home services, brand performance, automotive, gig, health and wellness, and career placements. The company also provides managed services that help clients to access and control the advertising spends, as well as marketing automation software as a service to clients. Digital Media Solutions, Inc. was founded in 2012 and is headquartered in Clearwater, Florida.

About American Well

(Free Report)

American Well Corporation operates digital care delivery enablement platform in the United States and internationally. Its platform connects and enables providers, insurers, patients, and innovators to deliver access for quality care. The company's products offer urgent care; scheduled visits; acute behavioral health; telestroke; comprehensive behavioral health; ED triage; pediatrics; end-stage renal disease and dialysis; and retail health, school health, and home settings. Its application offers telehealth urgent care; primary care; chronic care; digital therapy; teledermatology; manage Medicaid; behavior health; online nutrition counselling; sleep; women's health; employee assistance program therapy; and musculoskeletal care. The company also provides telemedicine equipment, including telemedicine carts, peripherals, tyto care, hospital TV kits, and telehealth tablets. American Well Corporation was incorporated in 2006 and is headquartered in Boston, Massachusetts.

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First Trust New Opportunities MLP & Energy Fund (NYSE:FPL  Free Report) is one of 1,194 public companies in the Asset Management industry, but how does it contrast to its peers? We will compare First Trust New Opportunities MLP & Energy Fund to related companies based on the strength of its dividends, earnings, profitability, risk, analyst recommendations, institutional ownership and valuation.

Valuation & Earnings

This table compares First Trust New Opportunities MLP & Energy Fund and its peers revenue, earnings per share (EPS) and valuation.

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Gross Revenue Net Income Price/Earnings Ratio First Trust New Opportunities MLP & Energy Fund $20.52 million N/A 1.36 First Trust New Opportunities MLP & Energy Fund Competitors $200.08 million -$13.43 million -0.32

First Trust New Opportunities MLP & Energy Funds peers have higher revenue, but lower earnings than First Trust New Opportunities MLP & Energy Fund. First Trust New Opportunities MLP & Energy Fund is trading at a higher price-to-earnings ratio than its peers, indicating that it is currently more expensive than other companies in its industry.

Dividends

Insider and Institutional Ownership

First Trust New Opportunities MLP & Energy Fund pays an annual dividend of $0.45 per share and has a dividend yield of 7.5%. First Trust New Opportunities MLP & Energy Fund pays out 10.2% of its earnings in the form of a dividend. As a group, Asset Management companies pay a dividend yield of 7.7% and pay out 1,121.9% of their earnings in the form of a dividend.

32.4% of shares of all Asset Management companies are owned by institutional investors. 18.2% of shares of all Asset Management companies are owned by insiders. Strong institutional ownership is an indication that large money managers, hedge funds and endowments believe a stock will outperform the market over the long term.

Analyst Ratings

This is a breakdown of current ratings and recommmendations for First Trust New Opportunities MLP & Energy Fund and its peers, as reported by MarketBeat.com.

Sell Ratings Hold Ratings Buy Ratings Strong Buy Ratings Rating Score First Trust New Opportunities MLP & Energy Fund 0 0 0 0 N/A First Trust New Opportunities MLP & Energy Fund Competitors 1030 4453 5789 82 2.43

As a group, Asset Management companies have a potential upside of 90.92%. Given First Trust New Opportunities MLP & Energy Funds peers higher possible upside, analysts plainly believe First Trust New Opportunities MLP & Energy Fund has less favorable growth aspects than its peers.

Profitability

This table compares First Trust New Opportunities MLP & Energy Fund and its peers net margins, return on equity and return on assets.

Net Margins Return on Equity Return on Assets First Trust New Opportunities MLP & Energy Fund N/A N/A N/A First Trust New Opportunities MLP & Energy Fund Competitors 380.51% 7.64% 4.95%

Summary

First Trust New Opportunities MLP & Energy Fund peers beat First Trust New Opportunities MLP & Energy Fund on 8 of the 10 factors compared.

First Trust New Opportunities MLP & Energy Fund Company Profile

(Free Report)

First Trust New Opportunities MLP & Energy Fund is a closed-ended balanced mutual fund launched and managed by First Trust Advisors L.P. It is co-managed by Energy Income Partners LLC. The fund invests in the public equity and fixed income markets of the United States. It seeks to invest in securities of companies operating in the energy and utilities sectors. The fund primarily invests in equity and debt securities of MLPs and MLP related entities, as well as in dividend paying growth stocks of other energy and energy utilities companies. It benchmarks the performance of its portfolio against the S&P 500 Index, Alerian MLP Total Return Index, and Wells Fargo Midstream MLP Total Return Index. First Trust New Opportunities MLP & Energy Fund was formed on October 15, 2013 and is domiciled in the United States.

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F & M Bank Corp. (OTCMKTS:FMBM  Free Report) saw a significant drop in short interest in the month of June. As of June 15th, there was short interest totalling 600 shares, a drop of 33.3% from the May 31st total of 900 shares. Based on an average trading volume of 2,200 shares, the days-to-cover ratio is presently 0.3 days.

F & M Bank Price Performance

F & M Bank stock remained flat at $20.94 during midday trading on Friday. F & M Bank has a fifty-two week low of $18.01 and a fifty-two week high of $27.99. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.10, a current ratio of 0.68 and a quick ratio of 0.68. The business has a fifty day simple moving average of $20.48 and a two-hundred day simple moving average of $21.57. The company has a market cap of $72.87 million, a price-to-earnings ratio of 10.63 and a beta of 0.36.

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F & M Bank (OTCMKTS:FMBM  Free Report) last released its earnings results on Friday, April 28th. The financial services provider reported $0.30 EPS for the quarter. F & M Bank had a return on equity of 9.74% and a net margin of 12.63%. The company had revenue of $9.71 million during the quarter.

F & M Bank Increases Dividend

About F & M Bank

The company also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Tuesday, May 30th. Stockholders of record on Monday, May 15th were paid a dividend of $0.26 per share. This represents a $1.04 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 4.97%. The ex-dividend date was Friday, May 12th. This is an increase from F & M Banks previous quarterly dividend of $0.25. F & M Banks payout ratio is 52.79%.

(Free Report)

F & M Bank Corp. operates as the bank holding company for Farmers & Merchants Bank that provides commercial banking services in Virginia. The company offers commercial and individual demand and time deposit accounts, savings accounts, checking accounts, money market accounts, internet and mobile banking services, and drive-in banking services.

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The Swedish-Danish extremist, Rasmus Paludan, has burned the Holy Quran in the Swedish capital Stockholm after he demonstrated in front of the Turkish embassy during the Muslims celebration of Eid al-Adha.



A heinous act by all standards that inflames the feelings of two billion Muslims worldwide, increases tension and strife and contradicts all human values and principles.

It is also an act that will have dire consequences.

This is not the first time the Holy Quran has been burned in Sweden. The same act has happened before. This time, however, those who burned the Quran before a mosque in Stockholm obtained a permit from the Swedish authorities.

This means that the Swedish government is a party to the matter; Unlike previous times, the extremist perpetrators did not act independently, which makes the Swedish government responsible for the burning, whose timing was deliberately chosen.

Some Western officials believe that burning the Holy Quran is a legal act and comes within the framework of freedom of opinion and expression stipulated in international human rights conventions. This view of the act, however, contradicts practical reality.

Article (19) of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights stipulates that Everyone has the right to freedom of opinion and expression; this right includes freedom to hold opinions without interference and to seek, receive and impart information and ideas through any media and regardless of frontiers.

Article (19) of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights stipulates the following: 1- Everyone shall have the right to hold opinions without interference. 2- Everyone shall have the right to freedom of expression; this right shall include freedom to seek, receive and impart information and ideas of all kinds, regardless of frontiers, either orally, in writing or print, in the form of art, or through any other media of his choice. 3- The exercise of the rights provided for in paragraph (2) of this article carries special duties and responsibilities. It may therefore be subject to certain restrictions, but these shall only be as provided by law and are necessary. These restrictions include (a) Respect for the rights or reputations of others; (b) Protecting national security, public order, or public health or morals.

Even the European Convention on Human Rights, in article (10), states that the right to freedom of expression is subject to certain restrictions that are "in accordance with the law" and "necessary in a democratic society".

These restrictions include protecting the interests of national security, territorial integrity or public safety; preventing disorder or crime; safeguarding health or morals; protecting the reputation or the rights of others; preventing the disclosure of information received in confidence; and maintaining the authority and impartiality of the judiciary.

The international human rights law also prohibits hate speech that includes incitement to discrimination, hostility or violence. Article 20 (2) of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights states that any advocacy of national, racial or religious hatred that constitutes incitement to discrimination, hostility or violence shall be prohibited by law.

Speech directed against a particular sect is permissible under international human rights law as long as it does not include clear incitement to discrimination, hostility or violence. However, the human rights law criminalizes any speech against a specific sect that exudes hatred, incitement to violence or discrimination, calling on states to take all necessary measures to prevent it.

Thus, burning the Holy Quran is an act that includes incitement to discrimination, hostility, hatred, and, of course, violence. There is ample evidence that this act has often triggered acts of violence and created an environment hostile to Muslims in their collective capacity as Muslims. It also indicates blatant religious racism.

Therefore, it is an act that is prohibited by international law, and it cannot fall under the category of freedom of opinion and expression since it is a legal act.

Such extremist and irresponsible acts may open the door to chaos and instability, triggering retaliatory violence in many countries worldwide.

This we have previously seen on more than one occasion after right-wing extremists insulted religions and abused symbols and sanctities.

The crime of burning the Holy Quran is not the first and may not be the last, but it certainly clearly reflects an extremist racist ideology that has begun to invade many societies.

Traces of this ideology can be seen in the crimes of Islamophobia and hostility towards foreigners and Muslims. These crimes should be condemned and penalized. They should also be stopped by legal means which criminalize all forms of incitement to religious or racial hatred.

Civilization, democracy and freedom strongly oppose extremism and racism against others; they cannot thrive while disregarding values, symbols and sanctities. Instead, they should be built on solid foundations of peace, tolerance, mutual respect, dialogue and coexistence among nations, religions and civilizations.

The integrity of a society, group, or state that adopts freedom of opinion and expression as a slogan becomes questionable as long as it is incapable of respecting differences and understanding the other's values, customs, and sanctities.

Freedom, in general, can never be absolute as it must have bounds and limitations.

Respecting others privacy, beliefs, and symbols is no less important than freedom of expression because, as human beings, we have different values, customs, and religions.

Therefore, we must understand and respect these differences to live, coexist, and build the best societies.

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MANSFIELD, La.  Melissa Welch was delivering newspapers early on the morning of March 30, 2010 when she saw a man in a green Action Taxi cab 
Imagenes cortesia de Phaidon y pertenecientes al libro Making Life Simpler.

Forty years ago, in 1983, photos of a spartan-looking London apartment contrasted with the opulent summer issue of World of Interiors magazine. In the process, the images planted the unexpected seed of simplicity in the postmodern and neo-baroque aesthetic luxury of the early 1980s. Alongside the images of the Paris home of banker David de Rothschild  which featured a sumptuous festival of marble busts, gilded moldings and heavy upholstery orchestrated by interior designer and antiques dealer Geoffrey Bennison  the pristine panorama of uncluttered surfaces and Venetian blinds of that seemingly uninhabited apartment amounted to a sort of manifesto.

In the main room, there was a single table, a black LC6 designed by Le Corbusier, Jeanneret & Perriand. Of course, there was nothing on the walls, [there were] no books in sight, no pictures or tableware. There was no visible trace of clothing or other possessions. Just white walls, writes Deyan Sudjic in John Pawson: Making Life Simpler (Phaidon), the book that the critic, writer and former director of Londons Design Museum published about the British architect. Pawson was the precursor of a style that has since become known as minimalism, and he is one of the most influential space creators in recent decades.

If today our walls are smooth, and we are comfortable with the fact that nothing is hanging on them, it is partly because of the success and relative democratization of Pawsons style, which Sudjics book explores in depth. His work reflects the rethinking of interiors; it removes anything that might distract or disturb the space from view and dispenses with taken-for-granted accessory and routine elements like baseboards, which almost always disappear in Pawsons projects, sometimes in favor of a poetic hollowness that sublimates the intersection between the floor and the wall. Pawsons work engages in an essential exploration of masses and volumes, of light and space, to create a void defined by accuracy and discipline, as one of the architects earliest supporters and clients, the late writer Bruce Chatwin, noted. He has also created a new formula for opulence, based on absence, the precision of each gesture and the quality of the materials.

John Pawson with Calvin Klein in 1995. PHAIDON

His renovation of the apartment in Elvaston Place was the first milestone in Pawsons late-blooming career, which began in his 30s after leaving his studies at the School of the Architectural Association in London. The apartment belonged to gallerist Hester van Royen, Pawsons partner at the time; the initiative was a sort of self-managed end-of-degree project, for which he did not earn a degree but received a lot of publicity.

In Japan, its the same thing. An architects first job is usually a house for his parents or girlfriend. I tore down the apartment and rebuilt it. The problem was that it was a rental, and the landlord got a bit angry, Pawson recalls from his studio in London on the first workday after the coronation of King Charles III (which coincided with his birthday). At home, there was some confusion about who the king was, he jokes. He then commented on the new monarchs well-known tendency to criticize architecture. Ive been lucky enough to be fairly independent and have never relied on his patronage, but his opinions have made it very difficult for architecture in the U.K. And thats a pity, because on other issues, like the environment, he has been a very positive voice.

Saatchi sink prototype (1987). PHAIDON

Japan inspired Pawsons interest in architecture. At only 17, shortly before his graduation, Pawson gathered the courage to flee the oppressive environment of the prestigious Eton College and embark on a journey of discovery through Asia and Australia. My parents wouldnt call it courage, he says ironically. They would have said I was rather fickle. He returned to England with an Australian accent that horrified his father. For six years, he worked in the familys textile company, but that didnt go well. As he was experiencing an emotional and existential crisis, Pawson saw a film about some Japanese Buddhist monks who lived in a temple on top of a mountain and prayed at dawn. I decided to leave Halifax, go to that mountain and live there forever.

He went to Japan and got to the temple, but he only stayed for one night. Subsequently, he settled in Nagoya, where he taught English for three years; he then moved to Tokyo. There, in a bookstore, he discovered a monograph by designer Shiro Kuramata, whose work Pawson had already seen a few years earlier in Domus magazine. With the naivete of a 24-year-old, I called his studio. I told him I wanted to meet him. He must have thought I was someone influential and decided to be kind. We met for coffee, and he was very nice. During the year I spent in Tokyo, I visited him several times; he took me in and introduced me to his circle, Pawson recalls. Kuramatas influence was key in nurturing his existing interest in visually simple architecture, from Mies van der Rohe to Cistercian monasteries. That [interest] was always there. Thats why I decided to go to Japan. Kuramata represented the refined, contemporary, thoroughly modern vision of those ideas.

Van Royen Apartment (1981), in London. PHAIDON

He returned home with a purpose and enrolled in school just before he turned 30. It wasnt until I found architecture that I was really contented. I didnt have a plan. I never thought I would practice architecture. For me, it was an interest, a passion, but I wasnt thinking that Id have an office and clients and projects. I did Hesters apartment, then her office at Waddington Gallery, and then the gallery itself, and artist Michael Craig-Martins apartment, and so on. One thing led to another, he explains.

A book  the first monograph on Pawsons work, which was published in Spain  was crucial in the unfolding of those events as well. Almost all of my firsts have been in Spain: my first girlfriend, my first house [in Mallorca, in 1989] and my first book. My memory of it is vague, but I think they surprised us by writing and telling us about the project. I was very interested in supervising it, but they explained to me that they were the editors, not me, so they did it the way they wanted to, and it was fantastic. That book, he says, has been responsible not only for my career but for my life. Hotel entrepreneur and real estate developer Ian Schrager happened to see the book, and in turn he showed it to Calvin Klein. That resulted in a partnership between the designer and the architect, which yielded the imposing Madison Avenue store that opened in Manhattan in 1995 and boosted Pawsons international reputation.

Tetsuka House (2005), in Tokyo. PHAIDON

Since then, unlike other star architects, Pawson has kept his studio on a modest scale that guarantees personal interaction with clients, and he has participated in very few competitions. Sometimes I wonder if thats a mistake, but to tell the truth I dont like them. A lot of work is done without dialogue with the client, and no matter how much they respect you, they treat you as part of a disposable whole. Its not a very pleasant feeling, and its exhausting financially and emotionally, he admits.

The remodeling of the block of apartments at 50 Gramercy Park (2004-2007) in Manhattan marked the beginning of a long and prolific collaboration with Schrager. That partnership culminated in the interior design of The Madrid Edition hotel. We were lucky to collaborate with Francois Champsaur. We laid the foundation, and other artists and creators were able to add other layers, he says.

The Oroya restaurant is located on the top floor of the Edition hotel. There, a lush artificial jungle hangs from the high ceilings. When asked if he had anything to do with it, Pawson smiles: That was Ians doing. But the most important thing is that the project is a success. In my early days, every detail, every material, every decision seemed important. I was unable to compromise, and conflict was inevitable. I thought not compromising was a good thing then, but Ive learned to go along with other peoples decisions.

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Hazaribag, Jul 2 (PTI) One person was killed and 12 others were injured after a bus overturned and fell in a roadside ditch in Jharkhand's Hazaribag district on Sunday, police said.

The bus was on the way to the Chhinnamasta temple in Rajrappa in Ramgarh district from Jehanabad in Bihar with devotees when the accident happened on National Highway 2 near Pipra village in Chouparan police station area, they said.

Also Read | PM Narendra Modi To Lay Foundation Stone for Railway Wagon Manufacturing Unit in Telangana on July 8.

Superintendent of Police Manoj Ratan Chothe said the driver of the bus lost control, following which it overturned and fell in a roadside ditch.

One person was killed and 12 others were injured, he said.

Also Read | Ajit Pawar Joins Maharashtra Government: State Will Sprint on Path of Development With Two Deputy CMs, Says CM Eknath Shinde.

The deceased person was identified as Sikandar Kumar Yadav, he added.

Among those injured, the conditions of two persons were critical and they were sent to the Rajendra Institute of Medical Sciences (RIMS) in Ranchi for treatment, Chothe said.

The others were undergoing treatment at the Community Health Centre in Chouparan.

The body of the deceased was sent to the Sheikh Bhikhari Medical College and Hospital in Hazaribag for post-mortem examination, police said.

(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, July 2: Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Sunday virtually inaugurated the 'Akshar River Cruise' at Sabarmati Riverfront in Gujarat's Ahmedabad. 'Akshar River Cruise is a floating restaurant and has been a joint venture of Akshar Travels, Amdavad Municipal Corporation (AMC), and Sabarmati Riverfront Development Corporation.

A 162-capacity cruise will take the passengers on a one and half hour journey with a meal. A floating restaurant has a sprinkler facility against fire, a lifeboat, life jackets, and other facilities for safety. In his address, Amit Shah said that the Sabarmati Riverfront has become the soul of social and cultural activities in Ahmedabad. Amit Shah to Visit UP Today, to Attend Event Marking Sonelal Patel's Birth Anniversary.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah Virtually Inaugurates Akshar River Cruise

#WATCH | Union Home Minister Amit Shah virtually inaugurates 'Akshar River Cruise' at Sabarmati Riverfront in Ahmedabad pic.twitter.com/VFs75b6vZc  ANI (@ANI) July 2, 2023

"As the then Gujarat chief minister, Prime Minister Modi for the first time imagined a riverfront and planned for it, and it was constructed during his tenure (as CM). Now, it has become known not just in Ahmedabad but also across the country and abroad," Shah said while addressing the gathering through video conferencing. Gujarat Rains: Home Minister Amit Shah Speaks to CM Bhupendra Patel, Says Govt Engaged in Providing All Possible Help (Watch Video).

He also noted that a floating restaurant has a sprinkler facility against fire, a lifeboat, life jackets, and other facilities for safety. Shah further lauded Prime Minister Narendra Modi, saying when the latter was the chief minister of Gujarat, he took many initiatives which helped in increasing the tourist footfall in the state.

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
Chandigarh, Jul 2 (PTI) Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann Sunday said his government is making concerted efforts to make Punjab a power surplus state and promote green, solar and hydropower.

The state government is setting up a 206 MW hydropower project in Pathankot on the Ravi River, Mann also said, adding that this water will also be used judiciously for irrigating fields in Punjab.

Also Read | Delhi Shocker: 16-Year-Old Girl Raped, Blackmailed by Man After Sedating Her With Cold Drink in Gurugram; Arrested.

In a statement here, Mann said due to the efforts of the state government, canal water reached the tail end in villages, which reduced the burden on tube wells thereby considerably saving electricity and groundwater.

The state government is committed to carving out a 'rangla' (vibrant) Punjab for which everyone in the state should play a proactive role.

Also Read | Bihar Shocker: Woman Slits Rapists Genitals in Self-Defence in Banka After Man Barges Into Home and Rapes Her; Accused Arrested.

He also congratulated people on the completion of a year of giving free power (300 units per month) in the state.

The state government on July 1 last year launched the guarantee of providing free power to the people.

He said 90 per cent of the households in the state are getting free power and have got zero electricity bills since last July.

Mann also said farmers are getting more than eight hours of power supply without any cuts.

Elated farmers are sharing videos regarding it and expressing gratitude to the Punjab government, he claimed.

Apart from it, the state government paid a subsidy worth Rs 20,200 crore to the power utility Punjab State Power Corporation Limited, the chief minister informed.

This has not been made possible by taking loans, as done by previous governments, but by checking pilferages and corruption, he said.

Due to concerted efforts of the state government, the supply of coal from Pachwara coal mine that was stopped has been resumed after 2015, Mann said adding, that earlier governments stalled supply from this coal mine to mint money illegally from private thermal plants.

For the first time in the history of the state, Punjab has a coal stock of 43 days whereas the earlier threat of blackout loomed large in the state during earlier regimes, he said.

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
Gorakhpur (Uttar Pradesh) [India], July 2 (ANI): In an attempt to become a trillion-dollar economy within the next five years, the Gorakhpur Industrial Development Authority (GIDA) accelerated the process of setting up industries.

GIDA will soon initiate the application process for the allocation of 253 industrial plots in different sectors, including the plastic and readymade garments park projects among others, said an official statement.

Also Read | Ajit Pawar Joins Maharashtra Government: State Will Sprint on Path of Development With Two Deputy CMs, Says CM Eknath Shinde.

Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath had earlier said that by 2027, Uttar Pradesh will become a one-trillion-dollar economy.

According to Pawan Agrawal, the Chief Executive Officer of GIDA, the allocation process for the new plots will expedite the development of a plastic park. According to the available data, 92 plots with a total area of 2,18,859 sqm will be allotted in the plastic park in Sector 28.

Also Read | Thailand Takes Back Elephant from Sri Lanka over Abuse Claim.

Pawan Agarwal added, "GIDA is being developed as an excellent industrial area in line with the vision of the Chief Minister. Implementing the investment proposals received at the Global Investors Summit in the ground-breaking ceremony is also progressing rapidly."

The sizes of these plots range from 594 sqm to 20,764 sqm. A total of 42 plots will be available with sizes up to 1,000 sqm, 42 plots with sizes ranging from 1,001 to 4,000 sqm, 5 plots with sizes ranging from 4,001 to 20,000 sqm, and 3 plots with sizes exceeding 20,001 sqm, for which entrepreneurs/investors can submit their applications.

Similarly, a total of 41 new plots will be allocated at the Garment Park in GIDA Sector 26, covering a total area of 28,340 sqm. These plots will have sizes ranging from 510 to 1,000 sqm.

Besides, 120 plots will be allotted for general industries. These plots are located in four sectors, with a total area of 479,053.83 sqm. Entrepreneurs and investors can apply for 26 plots with areas ranging from 600 to 42,284.20 sqm in Sector 13, 18 plots ranging from 759 to 15,500 sqm in Sector 15, 12 plots ranging from 3,996 to 17,514 sqm in Sector 26, and 64 plots, ranging from 541 to 62,952.70 sqm in Sector 27.

Entrepreneurs can apply for plots according to their requirements. There are altogether 35 plots with an area of up to 1,000 sqm, 64 plots ranging between 1,001 to 4,000 sqm, 17 plots ranging from 4,001 to 20,000 sqm, and 4 plots with a size exceeding 20,001 sqm.

It is worth mentioning here that the GIDA, as per the intention of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, is consistently enriching its land bank to ensure that investors receive land plots according to their requirements. Additionally, the process of allocating land to entrepreneurs and connecting their plots with infrastructure development is also progressing rapidly.

Agrawal also mentioned that GIDA has received a target of Rs 12,500 crore for the ground-breaking ceremony. So far, approximately two-thirds of the target has been achieved. The allocation of new plots will further contribute to GIDA's progress beyond the set goals. Small, medium, and large plots have been developed according to the needs of every investor and entrepreneur.

Notably, GIDA has emerged as the preferred destination for investors over the last six years, similar to Noida due to improved law and order situation as well as industry-friendly and transparent policies of the Yogi government. During the Global Investors Summit held in February, Gorakhpur received investment proposals worth Rs 1.71 lakh crore. (ANI)

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
Ottawa, July 2: Canada has moved to prohibit animal testing for cosmetics, joining a number of other countries and American states in doing so, CNN reported. The decision was revealed by the Canadian government in a news release on Tuesday this week.

According to the news release, Bill C-47 changes the Food and Drugs Act to prohibit both animal testing of cosmetic items and the sale of products based on animal testing data. Mystery Brain Disease Strikes in Canada: Cluster of Mysterious Brain Diseases Detected in New Brunswick, Victims Develop Dementia-Like Symptoms, Says Report.

With this new development, Canada will join the European Union, Australia, the United Kingdom (UK), and South Korea in outlawing the cruel practice of animal testing for cosmetics.

Citing Humane Society International, an organisation that promotes the human-animal bond across the globe, CNN reported that a total of 44 countries have passed laws banning cosmetic animal testing.

Furthermore, the practice is prohibited in ten states in the United States: New York, Virginia, California, Louisiana, New Jersey, Maine, Hawaii, Nevada, Illinois, and Maryland.

"Protecting animals, now and in the future, is something that many Canadians have been calling for, and something we can all celebrate," CNN quoted Canadian Minister of Health Jean-Yves Duclos as saying in the release.

"We are proud to move forward with this measure and to assure Canadians that the products they buy are cruelty-free. We will keep working with experts and international partners to explore safe, cruelty-free alternatives so no more animals suffer and die due to cosmetic testing." Google Avoids Paying Publishers As Per New Law in Canada: Tech Giant Removes Canadian News Content From Search Results, Google News.

According to the announcement, Health Canada is also attempting to identify "effective alternatives to animal testing" outside of the cosmetic industry.

Notably, cosmetic testing included "toxicity tests" in which animals were trained to swallow or inhale specific chemicals, or to have the chemicals applied to their skin or eyes.

(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, July 2: In yet another case of electrocution, a man lost his life due to an electric shock in the basement of an under construction building in the premises of LNJP hospital here, officials said on Sunday.

The incident is similar to the one that occurred at the New Delhi railway station on June 25 when a woman died after getting electrocuted amid waterlogging due to incessant rainfall. Delhi Shocker: Woman Electrocuted to Death at New Delhi Railway Station After Coming in Contact With Live Wire Due to Incessant Rain (See Pics and Video).

According to sources, the basement was filled with water, and the electrical wires were submerged in it. A senior police official said that on Sunday, at around 9 a.m., a person was brought to the emergency room of LNJP Hospital as he had suffered an electrical shock. He was declared dead by the doctors.

"The deceased was identified as Sujeet Kumar, a resident of Samastipur, Bihar. He was working as a labourer at the construction site within the premises of LNJP Hospital. Uttar Pradesh: Minor Girl Electrocuted to Death After Power Cable Falls On Her in Bareilly.

"While he was working in the basement, he got electrocuted. He was taken to the emergency room with the help of another worker working at the site," said the police.

The official said that the crime scene was being inspected by the FSL (Forensic Science Laboratory) and the Crime team."The body has been preserved, and necessary legal action is being initiated," said the police.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jul 02, 2023 01:20 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).
Bernardine Evaristo, 63, vividly remembers her first ever visit to Spain. It was in 1988, I spent a year traveling around Europe with a friend and we ended up in Fuengirola, we were looking for some sun. Im English, we really like coming to the Canary Islands and the Costa del Sol, she says laughing. The author is back in Madrid to discuss her memoirs, Manifesto: On Never Giving Up. She says her book is not a typical autobiography, but a book about creativity, how to lead a creative life on your own terms.

The idea originated in 2019, when she scooped the Booker Prize for Girl, Woman, Other, awarded jointly for the first time in the history to Evaristos novel and The Testaments by the Canadian writer Margaret Atwood. I have literally now given hundreds and hundreds of interviews and talked about myself a lot. Thats why, the next step for me as a writer was to let people know who I was, to fill in the gaps, because a lot of people were being introduced to me because of the prize, they didnt know who I was, although I have been around for 40 years and my first book was published in 1996, she explains. Certain spaces had yet to be filled. Most memoirs were traditionally written by men, famous men. So, I think its really important that womens stories get out there and we need more memoirs, autobiographies, biographies, more women writing books, she says. In 2022, Annie Ernauxs autobiography won the Nobel Prize, and authors who explore their lives, such as Mary Karr or Vivian Gornick, are now highly acclaimed.

As a child, she says, she felt she lacked role models, and she turned to reading as a refuge, discovering authors like Audre Lorde. In the 1980s, she wrote a book, an autobiography called Zami: A New Spelling of My Name, and it was extraordinary because that was 40 years ago when she was writing about her life and she was a Black lesbian and a poet, and it was very inspiring for me as a young woman to read that, she explains.

Evaristo was raised along with her seven siblings  a mixed family of a white English mother of Irish descent and a Nigerian father of Brazilian-African descent  in a white neighborhood of London. I wanted people to know how hard it was to grow up in a household where there was so much racism in a society that there was so much disapproval of your parents marriage. But Ive used it in a positive way and its made me stronger, she points out.

She takes a look back at the past to see how far society has advanced, where she has come from: When I was young, racism was legal, sexism was legal. When you have no legislation against bigotry and discrimination, people can do what they like and say what they like and get away with it. That world that I was born into 63 years ago was a very different world to the world today. She believes that the Black Lives Matter movement really shook the foundations of British culture, because the institutions really started looking at themselves, at their systemic racism. However, the issue is far from resolved: Weve had the Tory government for 12 years now and one of the things the government never acknowledges is systemic racism. They deny it, even if theyre brown themselves, like our prime minister, Rishi Sunak, or home secretary, Suella Braverman. So, There was a backlash against looking critically at British history and people were accused of being unpatriotic. I cant believe it.

The process of exploring her origins to write her memoirs has helped her to understand her own creative approach. She left home early, she needed a room of her own, to no longer have to share with one of her sisters. I painted the walls bright red because I could, and there was nobody to stop me. But I felt I could be myself, she recalls. This was the first step in the fight against the establishment that has shaped her life. You have these milestones that society says youre supposed to achieve at certain ages as a woman. But life throws lots of curveballs at you. Life is unpredictable. And for some people, whats established doesnt work. At the age of 20, I studied Dramatic Art and turned to theater; when I was 30 I decided to become a writer; I met my long life partner, David, in my forties; I got my first proper full time job at a university when I was 51; I bought my own home for the first time at 55; and then I won the Booker Prize at 60. People ask me if it wouldnt have been better to win it when I was younger and I say no, because I couldve got lost within myself. Whereas at the age of 60, I was very established in who I am, I know who my friends are and what my creativity is. I know what I believe in. I can actually just enjoy the moment and exploit it.

In Manifesto, she deplores this ageism, which she perceives as palpable in literature and the audiovisual industry. We live in a patriarchal society where young women are judged according to how they look, and the stories of older women are not told. Its shocking. Its shocking that the fashion industry is still focusing on the thinnest women imaginable to sell clothes when 99.9% of women do not look like that, it doesnt make sense. It is all part of a patriarchal society. And that needs to change, she explains.

Evaristo believes that one of the ways to define her personality was by making her own clothes: It was a statement to the world of who I was and what my identity was. When I was a child, I wanted to be like everybody else, but by the time I was 13 or 14, I wanted to stand out, and I was reacting against not being accepted by deciding that I didnt want to be like everybody else. As a result of going against the tide, many of the lessons that she recounts in her memoirs have emerged, where she opens up and, in addition to celebrating her achievements, reflects on dark moments, such as her relationship with a woman she calls the Mental Dominatrix. I had a really toxic relationship with the Mental Dominatrix, which took a long time for me to overcome, I hope it serves as a warning not to be with people like that. You have to get away from what is detrimental to you and to your creative process.

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Palghar, July 2: A minor boy and his sister were mowed down by a speeding pickup van in Maharashtra's Palghar district, police said on Sunday. The incident took place on Friday evening and the 27-year-old van driver was arrested from Dahanu area here on Saturday, they said.

The seven-year-old boy and his sister aged 12, belonging to Modgaon-Khoripada in Dahanu, were walking on a road when the speeding van hit them, Palghar police spokesperson Sachin Navadkar said. Palghar Road Accident: MSRTC Bus Collides With Truck in Varle Village, 21 Injured.

The injured children were rushed to a hospital where doctors declared them brought dead, he said. The van driver, who fled from the spot after the incident, was nabbed on Saturday, the police said. Maharashtra Road Accident: Four Killed as Car Hits Bus on Mumbai-Ahmedabad Highway in Palghar (Watch Video).

A case was registered against the driver under Indian Penal Code sections 304(A), (causes death by rash or negligent act not amounting to culpable homicide), 279 (rash driving or riding), 337 and 338 (causing hurt by act endangering life or personal safety of others) and provisions of the Motor Vehicles Act, they said.
The 29-year-old elephant was flown back home on a flight which cost hundreds of thousands of US dollars. The Sri Lankan prime minister previously apologized to Thailand over the animal's condition.A Thai elephant returned to his home country on Sunday, after being away in Sri Lanka for over two decades. Activists claim the animal had suffered mistreatment.

Also Read | Navi Mumbai Water Cut Update: NMMC Says No Additional Water Cut in Navi Mumbai As Morbe Dam Receives Good Rainfall; Half Day Water Cut per Week To Continue.

The 29-year-old Muthu Raja, also known as Sak Surin, spent 22 years abroad. Until last year, the 4-ton elephant was kept at a Buddhist temple in Sri Lanka, where he is believed to have suffered torture and neglect.

Also Read | Amit Shah in Uttar Pradesh: BJP-Apna Dal Alliance Has Rid UP of Divisive SP, BSP, Says Union Home Minister.

What happened to the elephant?

The elephant was rescued from the temple following a campaign by the Rally for Animal Rights and Environment (RARE) group. RARE has petitioned authorities to prosecute those who it blames for his condition.

The animal was in pain and covered in abscesses when it was extracted from the temple to a zoo at the Sri Lankan capital, according to the Zoo's chief veterinarian.

Animal rights groups say Muthu Raja was forced to work with a logging crew and that his handler inflicted some of the wounds.

The elephant is now due to undergo hydrotherapy in Thailand for further treatment.

RARE organized a Buddhist blessing on Friday to bid the animal farewell.

Sri Lankan PM apologizes to Thai king

The elephant's $700,000-journey (roughly 641,000) has strained ties between Thailand and Sri Lanka. Thai authorities revealed the cost of the journey, without clarifying who would pay for it.

Sri Lanka-based wildlife environmentalist Jagath Gunawardana said that when a gift is taken back, it is bound to have a negative effect on both countries' ties.

Sri Lanka considers elephants sacred and protects them by law. However, that does not eliminate the possibility of animals experiencing abuse, which also a common problem in Thailand.

Sri Lankan Prime Minister Dinesh Gunawardena told parliament last month that he had personally conveyed his country's regrets over the animal's condition to the Thai king.

Thailand has stopped sending its elephants abroad, and is currently checking the conditions of those already overseas, Thai Environment Minister Varawut Silpa-archa said.

rmt/dj (AFP, dpa)

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jul 02, 2023 05:10 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).
From United Press International

A magician who compared himself to the legendary Harry Houdini and had himself buried inside a plastic-and-glass coffin for a Halloween night escape trick was killed when the coffin collapsed under tons of dirt and wet cement.

Joseph Burrus, 32, a recovering drug addict, was performing the stunt at a local amusement park, Blackbeards Family Fun Center, when the coffin unexpectedly collapsed.

As trick-and-treaters watched in shock, rescuers frantically dug Burrus out but were unable to reach him in time.

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I consider myself a master of illusion and escape artist, Burrus said before the stunt. I believe Im the next Houdini and greater.

Harry Houdini, considered the master of escape artists, died on Halloween night in 1926.

Burrus had done the escape-from-the-buried-casket stunt successfully a year ago in Oregon using only dirt over the coffin.

Wednesday night, wearing a white tuxedo, Burrus was handcuffed, wrapped in chains, locked inside the see-through coffin and then lowered into a seven-foot-deep hole.

Crews started pouring wet cement into the hole from a cement truck until Burrus knocked on the casket lid asking them to stop.

He said the chain was too tight (around his neck) and was choking him, said Sean Henderson, a resident of the Third Floor drug recovery clinic. Burrus was staging the stunt as a benefit for the clinic.

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We gave him time to slip the chain from his neck. After he got that done, he wanted the locks back on and asked us to start burying him again, Henderson said. The crews put another three feet of dirt into the hole and then began covering that with three feet of cement.

As soon as we finished and the truck pulled away the whole thing dropped, Henderson said. The . . . cement busted the coffin. It buried him alive.

Witnesses said they could hear the plastic and glass of the coffin shatter from the estimated nine tons of cement and dirt. The crews worked frantically to exhume the casket, but efforts to revive Burrus were unsuccessful.
SPECIAL TO THE TIMES

Attila the Hun is back. After resting peacefully in the history books for 1,500 years, the barbarian warlord, dubbed the Scourge of God after he plundered 5th-Century Europe, is again at the center of a battle.

This time, the conflict is academic. The weapons are obscure citations in Byzantine texts. And the prize, if one could call him that, is Attila himself--and a new, prouder sense of Ukrainian identity.

Attila the Hun commanded a tribe of fierce horsemen whose savagery and military prowess won them fame and fear throughout Europe. In 451, they attacked the frontier of the Roman Empire. And they might even have taken Rome itself had the Pope not interceded with Attila to spare it.

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Almost any encyclopedia will tell you that these barbarians who made the Romans shake in their sandals were Asian nomads who set out from Mongolia sometime in the 4th Century and, under Attilas rule, set up their capital in territory that eventually became Hungary.

But now Hryhory Vasylenko, a historian at Kiev State University, has concluded that the encyclopedias are wrong. The Huns, he claims, were neither Asians nor nomads. They were a Slavic tribe called Polanians. And they were not based in Hungary, either. Byzantine accounts of diplomatic journeys to Attilas capital show that the king of the Huns built his city on the Dnieper River, in present-day Ukraine, according to Vasylenko.

The search for Attilas pedigree is about a lot more than historiography. Its Ukrainian self-identity thats at issue.

Ukrainian historians point out that during the 350 years that Ukraine was a Russian colony, it was not permitted to have a history of its own--a deprivation that todays independent Ukraine is determined to correct.

That the Huns spent time in Ukraine, known then as Scythia, is beyond question. With the Antes, a federation of Slavic tribes led by the Polanians, they chased the Goths out of Scythia in 376. Then, for good measure, they pillaged a few of the Greek city-states that dotted the Black Sea coast.

But Vasylenkos implication that the Scourge of Gods name should be changed to Attila the Slav is sure to raise eyebrows in academic circles, as will his theory that Attila was not just any Slav. Supposedly, he was Kij, the fabled Polanian prince who legend says founded Kiev in the 5th Century.

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Whats more, Vasylenko believes that Attila-Kij was the victim of a bad historical rap, devised by Byzantine historians to disparage their enemy. Far from being a savage who drank from his slain enemies skulls, Vasylenkos Attila was noble, fair and wise, a talented diplomat and one of Ukraines first freedom fighters, waging war against the Roman Empire to avenge injustice against his people.

Actually, Attila the Huns rehabilitation is just one of the controversial historical assertions percolating through Ukrainian popular culture as scholars, enthusiastic amateurs and even a few crackpots search through the millennia for their past.

The Tripillians, a neolithic agricultural society that flourished on the west bank of the Dnieper River 5,000 years ago, hold a special fascinationtoday.

The Tripillians hold many claims to fame, including the worlds first two-story houses and painted pottery that UCLA archeologist Marija Gimbutas praised for its remarkable artistic maturity.

But Ukrainian archeologist Yuri Shylov has more ambitious assertions. In direct challenge to the widely held view that writing was invented around 3100 BC in the Mesopotamian city-state of Sumer, Shylov claims that the Tripillians did it first. Unfortunately, he cant prove it.

The evidence--clay tablets with cuneiform-type markings discovered in Tripillian excavations--disappeared from an archeological archive in the 1970s.

While proof of Tripillian literacy would be an academic bombshell, some of the historical revisions coming out of independent Ukraine have potentially explosive political implications.

Russia stole Ukraines history, charged Omejlan Pritsak, a retired Harvard University history professor now working in Kiev. Now that Ukraine is independent, it wants its history back.

The history is that of Kievan Rus, the medieval empire centered in the capital founded by Vasylenkos Attila-Kij. At its zenith in the 10th and 11th centuries, Kiev was an international center of trade, scholarship and religion. It ruled a tribal federation that stretched from the Carpathian mountains to the Volga, and from the Black Sea to the Baltic.

But in 1240, Mongols sacked the city and most of Kievan Rus fell under the Golden Horde.

That much is not very controversial. What happened afterward is. Two hundred years later, a small principality called Muscovy (later Moscow) chased the Mongols out and proclaimed itself the successor to Kievan Rus. Only Muscovy did not even exist during Kievs heyday, and the tribes that lived there were not Slavs. They were Finno-Ugric.

To explain away that fact, Russian historians decided that the Slavic inhabitants of Kievan Rus all migrated north under pressure from the Mongols. They became the modern Russian nation. As for the Ukrainians, they came from somewhere else (no one bothered much to find out where) and settled on the territory around Kiev centuries later.

According to Ukrainian historian Vitaly Shevchuk, Muscovys claim to Rus created a pretext for expanding its empire by gathering together the Rus lands that had fragmented after the Mongol invasion. It also created the myth of the Russian elder brother, whose prerogative was telling his Slavic little brother (Ukraine) what to do, Shevchuk said in an interview published by a Kiev newspaper.

Thus, when Muscovy absorbed Ukraine in 1654, the Russians called the result a reunion. Three hundred years later, the Soviets celebrated the occasion by building a giant Arch of the Reunion on the hills above the Dnieper. But now the Ukrainians are calling that so-called reunion annexation, and while newspapers regularly publish schemes for demolishing the arch, scholars like Shevchuk and Pritsak are poking holes in Russias version of history and its claim to Kievan Rus.

Saying that Kievan Rus is a part of Russian history, argues Pritsak, would be like American historians saying that Shakespeare was an American because many colonists came from England.

That view faces an uphill battle when every encyclopedia traces Russias history back to Kiev. Nevertheless, Pritsak, who was instrumental in founding Harvards Institute of Ukrainian Studies, believes that his Western colleagues will soon come to accept the Ukrainian version of history.

But persuading Russians, most of whom remain convinced that Rus is synonymous with Russia, could be a matter of strategic significance.

If reactionaries come to power in Moscow, Ukraine could again be the victim of a campaign to gather together the Rus lands that fragmented with the Soviet Unions collapse. Unless, of course, a new Attila-Kij appears to lead the anti-imperial battle.
From Times Wire Services

Twenty people were killed in a gun battle between members of a Christian religious group and army troops in the southern Philippines, an army spokesman said Saturday.

Maj. Johnny Macanas said the encounter took place Friday in the town of Pangantocan in Bukidnon province on Mindanao Island, 870 miles south of Manila, the Philippine capital.

The troops were accompanying local police to arrest Alfredo Opciona, the leader of the Tadtad religious sect, on charges of attempted murder, police said.

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They went to the place of this religious sect supposedly to serve a warrant of arrest to the leader of the Tadtad group, but [the group] resisted and there was an encounter, Macanas said in a radio interview.

Fighting began after the cult members, armed with long knives and homemade guns, refused to give up the suspect, said Edgardo Villamayor, the provincial police chief.

Sixteen Tadtad members, including the suspect, were killed, along with three members of the army auxiliary group and one civilian.

Cult members in remote areas of the Philippines, a mostly Roman Catholic nation, often combine traditional and Christian beliefs.

Tadtad was one of several civilian organizations that battled Muslim insurgents in the 1970s, but police say it now functions as a Christian cult.

Macanas said the army began a search for cult members who had fled, but it was not known how many were at large.

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Macanas denied that the encounter had anything to do with the governments battle with Muslim insurgents on Mindanao.

Theres no connection, he said. This was a Christian religious organization, and there was just a warrant for the groups leader.
In the heart of the Ethiopian community here, a group of friends gathered after work in an office to chew on dried khat leaves before going home to their wives and children. Sweet tea and sodas stood on a circular wooden table between green mounds of the plant, a mild narcotic grown in the Horn of Africa.

As the sky grew darker the conversation became increasingly heated, flipping from religion to jobs to local politics. Suddenly, one of the men paused and turned in his chair. See, it is the green leaf, he said, explaining the unusually animated discussion as he pinched a few more leaves together and tossed them into his mouth.

For centuries the flower of paradise has been used legally in East Africa and the Arabian Peninsula as a stimulant and social tonic.

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But in the United States khat is illegal, and an increased demand for the plant in cities such as Washington and San Diego is leading to stepped up law enforcement efforts and escalating clashes between narcotics officers and immigrants who defend their use of khat as a time-honored tradition.

In the last few years, San Diego, which has a large Somali population, has seen an almost eight-fold increase in khat seizures. Nationally, the amount of khat seized annually at the countrys ports of entry has grown from 14 metric tons to 55 in about the last decade.

Most recently, California joined 27 other states and the federal government in banning the most potent substance in khat, and the District of Columbia is proposing to do the same.

It is a very touchy subject. Some people see it like a drug; some people see it like coffee, said Abdulaziz Kamus, president of the African Resource Center in Washington, D.C. You have to understand our background and understand the significance of it in our community.

Increased immigration from countries such as Ethiopia, Yemen and Somalia has fueled the demand in this country and led to a cultural conflict.

We grew up this way, you cant just cut it off, said a 35-year-old Ethiopian medical technician between mouthfuls of khat as he sat with his friends in the office.

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In the Horn of Africa and parts of the Middle East, khat is a regular part of life, often consumed at social gatherings or in the morning before work and by students studying for exams. Users chew the plant like tobacco or brew it as a tea. It produces feelings of euphoria and alertness that can verge on mania and hyperactivity depending on the variety and freshness of the plant.

But some experts are not convinced that its health and social effects are so benign. A World Health Organization report found that consumption can lead to increased blood pressure, insomnia, anorexia, constipation and general malaise. The report also said that khat can be addictive and lead to psychological and social problems.

It is not coffee. It is definitely not like coffee, said Garrison Courtney, spokesman for the Drug Enforcement Administration. It is the same drug used by young kids who go out and shoot people in Africa, Iraq and Afghanistan. It is something that gives you a heightened sense of invincibility, and when you look at those effects, you could take out the word khat and put in heroin or cocaine.

Khat comes from the leaves and stems of a shrub and must be shipped in overnight containers to preserve its potency. It contains the alkaloid cathinone, similar in chemical structure to amphetamine but about half as potent, according to Nasir Warfa, a researcher in cross cultural studies at Queen Mary University of London.

The United Kingdom determined last year that evidence does not warrant restriction of khat. In the United States, the substance has been illegal under federal law since 1993.

But the world supply of khat is exploding. Countries such as Ethiopia and Kenya now rely on it as a major cash crop to bolster their economies. Khat is Ethiopias second largest export behind coffee.

Khat usage has grown so much in San Diego that Assemblyman Joel Anderson (R-San Diego) wrote a 2008 bill that added cathinone and its derivative cathine to Californias list of Schedule II drugs along with raw opium, morphine and coca leaves.

As of Thursday, Andersons bill made possession of khat a misdemeanor in California, punishable by up to one year in county jail and a $1,000 fine. Possession of the leaf with intent to sell is a felony that carries a three-year maximum sentence in state prison.

In some cases, khat seizures have resulted in warnings and probation. In other instances, like New York Citys Operation Somali Express bust in 2006, which led to the seizure of 25 tons of khat worth an estimated $10 million, the perpetrators were sent to jail for up to 10 years.

In my mind, [such arrests are] wrong, said an Ethiopian-born cabdriver who was arrested in November in a Washington, D.C., khat bust and spoke on condition of anonymity. They act like they know more about khat than I know.

Khat leaves are sold attached to thick stalks or dried like tea leaves. A bundle of 40 leafed twigs costs about $28 to $50.

The plants cost has been linked to family problems, including domestic abuse, said Starlin Mohamud, a Somali immigrant who is completing a dissertation on khat at San Diego State University.

In fact, within the East African community in the U.S., there are many who welcome the khat restrictions.

I have seen what it does, Mohamud said. Families who are trying to make ends meet on a daily basis cannot afford it. It just creates so many problems between a husband and wife to the point where a broken family is going to be the result.

Not all lawmakers, however, support the increased efforts to prosecute khat sellers and users. California state Sen. Gloria Negrete McLeod (D-Chino) called khat use a minor problem that may be nonexistent and little understood and voted against Andersons bill.

The Legislature cannot continue to add on penalties and punishments filling up critically overcrowded prison system without weighing the consequences on how this will affect California, she said.

Even though khat smuggling continues to grow in the United States, the level is nowhere near that of drugs like marijuana, cocaine, heroine and methamphetamine. Still, law enforcement officials worry that in a refined, stronger and more portable form, khat could spread outside the immigrant communities.

In Israel, a pill known as hagigat (essentially Hebrew for party khat), has emerged on the club scene.

I dont think we are going to see American teenagers chewing the plant, said Phil Garn, a U.S. postal inspector in San Diego. But based on what I saw with meth and how it spread across the country, I can absolutely see how khat in a refined form could be a major problem.

--

cynthia.dizikes@latimes.com
Donald Trumps visit to Colorado on Friday offered the presumptive GOP nominee a chance to repair relations with Republicans in this pivotal swing state after a contentious primary season. But Trump instead dwelt on the divisions that threaten to split open the party.

In his address at the Western Conservative Summit, Trump repeatedly mentioned the fractious GOP primaries, particularly Colorados complicated delegate allocation process, in which the real estate mogul was outmaneuvered by GOP rival Sen. Ted Cruz.

Polls came out and I was going to win Colorado, doing really well in Colorado. It looked good, and I was looking forward to it, Trump recounted. And then, all of a sudden, I didnt get the delegates!

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Back in April, Trump slammed the process, and the fierce outcry he triggered culminated in state GOP Chairman Steve House receiving death threats.

Election 2016 | Live coverage on Trail Guide | Sign up for the newsletter

On Friday, House introduced Trump and spoke glowingly about his campaign, suggesting a detente. The two exchanged handshakes and back slaps, to the delight of the summits organizer, Jeff Hunt, of the Centennial Institute at Colorado Christian University.

That moment when Steve House welcomed Donald Trump  that was what I wanted to see, Hunt said in an interview.

But Trump and his supporters doubled down on the rift with GOP leaders and other party members who have yet to fall in line behind him.

Former Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin, who spoke before Trump, lambasted conservatives who remain skeptical of him.

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I just call them Republicans Against Trump  or RAT for short, said Palin, among several prominent GOP politicians and activists featured at the confab, including prominent anti-Trump voices such as Nebraska Sen. Ben Sasse and media personality Erick Erickson.

By dwelling on the rancor of the primaries, Trump also underscored just how difficult it will be to soothe GOP discord.

They were really nasty to me. And I was really nasty to them, Trump said of his Republican primary rivals.

The billionaire businessman insisted he had moved on, despite being the one to bring up their past quarrels, and reminded Republicans that the stakes of this election include the potential of multiple vacancies on the Supreme Court.

Having a Republican president selecting those justices is the difference between having our country as a great country and having Venezuela, he said.

Eventually, Trump trained his attention on Hillary Clinton, the presumptive Democratic nominee, calling the former secretary of State as weak as you get and declaring that Islamic State militants were hoping for her election.

And he scoffed at news of Bill Clintons meeting with Atty. Gen. Loretta Lynch, a face-to-face encounter that has garnered criticism given that Lynchs Justice Department is conducting a probe into his wifes use of a private email server to conduct government business.

When I first heard the story, I said. No, no, youre kidding. I dont believe it,  Trump said, adding that the former president really opened up a Pandoras box by meeting with the attorney general. Lynch said Friday that she would accept the recommendation of prosecutors when deciding whether to bring charges in the investigation.

Trumps speech got high marks from Teresa Bramlett, an executive assistant from Brighton, Colo.

Bramlett, 57, was not originally a Trump supporter but was won over by his penchant for taking the blindfolds off everybodys eyes.

I am thrilled with the promises and even hopeful that they will be done, Bramlett said after the speech.

melanie.mason@latimes.com

Follow @melmason for the latest on national politics.

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Most of Naomi Wus projects center on wearable technology for women. (Dec. 8, 2017) (Sign up for our free video newsletter here http://bit.ly/2n6VKPR)

Theres no mistaking Naomi Wu amid Shenzhens deliverymen and investors.

Her long, auburn-dyed hair falls over tight, low-cut tops; her miniskirts reveal more. Wu often wears these outfits in do-it-yourself videos that show her devising an LED-lit skirt or creating heels that hide hacking tools.

Wu calls herself a sexy cyborg. She also calls herself a maker, the term for tech hobbyists who build creative DIY projects. Her endeavors have earned Wu 157,000 subscribers on YouTube and more than 43,000 Twitter followers in a country that blocks both platforms. She has more than 700 supporters on Patreon, a crowd-funding site.

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But in recent weeks shes received even more attention  first from skeptical online commentators and then from Dale Dougherty, a California executive who helped launch the maker movement. They accused her of fraud.

Their remarks not only challenged her brand, they dismissed her ability. They took unsupported aim at an aspiring woman in a male-dominated industry  and, in particular, a young Chinese female who likes to dress revealingly.

That set off a social media tirade that spread across continents, underscoring the rigidity of gender stereotypes and the Internets powerful role in determining a persons fate.

It doesnt make sense, said Wu, 23, speaking in rapid-fire English outside one of the worlds largest electronics markets. Competent women never doubted me.

Wu works as a freelance web developer in Chinas electronics manufacturing hub, a southeastern coastal city that grew from a collection of fishing villages into one of the countrys wealthiest metropolises.

The city is home to Tencent, the social media company that temporarily surpassed Facebook in market value. Apple recently established a research and development center here. Wu takes pride in her city, like she does in her creations.

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Most of her projects center around wearable technology for women, such as LED eyelashes or a makeup case that holds a tiny computer. She also tests products in her videos, and films 360-degree tours around Shenzhens tech spaces.

Naomi Wu purchases components in Huaqiangbei, Shenzhens electronics mecca. (Jessica Meyers/for the Los Angeles Times )

Im determined, diligent, and I work hard, Wu said, striding through Huaqiangbei, a mecca of electronics goods shipped throughout the world. Wu, clad in a sea-green jumpsuit and white lace-up boots, ignored the male eyes peering from beyond mountains of mouse pads and microchips. Visibility is very important to me, she said.

Even before the accusations, online comments questioned Wus near fluent English (she was an English major) or her technical skills (she taught herself to code because she was an English major and needed work).

But the attacks grew more pronounced this fall, when an anonymous blog post claimed Wu was the face of a boyfriends operation. Wu insisted the projects were her own creations.

Then Dougherty got involved. Hes often referred to as the father of the movement, which promotes everyday creators from basement tinkerers to inventors of talking robots. Dougherty also runs Maker Media, a San Francisco media company that publishes Make: magazine and organizes events for the industry known as Maker Faires.

Wu had criticized Dougherty online for excluding her from such events and attacked him personally. He responded in November.

Naomi is a persona, not a real person, he tweeted. She is several or many people.

Dougherty told his nearly 26,000 followers to send him a direct message for more information. Then the small spat turned into an international battle.

Wu said employers started pulling out of potential deals or asking more questions about her work.

Other makers began demanding Doughertys resignation. Andrew bunnie Huang, an American researcher and hacker, wrote a 2,345-word defense of Wu on his blog.

Its not a big leap for me to accept Naomi as a Maker, he said in the post. I do my best engineering when sitting half-naked at my desk.  I dont have the strength to challenge these social norms that associate certain dress with intelligence. Secretly, Im glad someone is.

Naomi is just a flash point ...because she is extremely vocal and not ashamed of her femininity.  Andrew bunnie Huang, an American researcher and hacker

Two days after his tweet, Dougherty apologized. He followed it with a more comprehensive mea culpa in Make:, calling his comments completely inappropriate.

His words, he said, reflected my unconscious biases; and the negative impact of my tweets were amplified by the fact that I, a white, Western, male CEO of a key company in the Maker community publicly questioned a young, female, self-employed Chinese maker.

He offered to put Wu on the cover of the magazine and include a story about her work. He also invited her to participate in an advisory board for events in China.

Dougherty, in an email, confirmed the magazine is working on a piece about Wu for the next issue, but declined to say more.

Dale was wrong, and he knows that, said Sherry Huss, vice president of Maker Media. It was really just an unfortunate situation.

Huss, who helped start Maker Faires 12 years ago, said the movement is by nature an inclusive one. Its people that are curious and have a creative mind, thats the group were trying to appeal to, she said.

Maker Media partners with another company for the Shenzhen fair, which Huss attended in mid-November. Event organizers pulled together a meeting of 13 women to discuss their experiences.

The conversations have started and the healing has begun, and thats a good sign, Huss said.

Wu considers the situation resolved  although it refuses to die on the Internet.

Naomi is just a flash point for the issue because she is extremely vocal and not ashamed of her femininity, Huang said in an email. Its kind of disappointing that it takes someone so far from the average to make progress.

Mao Tse-tung, the founder of modern China, encouraged women to join the labor force in his quest for an industrialized society. Despite that legacy, Chinese women still struggle to achieve top positions in academia and politics. No woman has reached the highest rung of power, a seven-member leadership panel. Only one serves on the 25-member Politburo.

Chinese women find more success than those in the U.S. when it comes to tech, according to a 2016 report by Silicon Valley Bank. Nearly 80% of Chinese startups include one high-level woman, it concluded, compared with 54% of American startups.

Zhou Qunfei, founder of touch-screen maker Lens Technology, labored in factories before she ran them. Now shes the worlds richest self-made woman. Hu Weiwei, a 35-year-old former journalist, heads Chinas hugely successful bike-sharing service, Mobike.

That advancement only goes so far. The World Economic Forums global gender gap index ranks China at 100 out of 144 countries, above Turkey and Korea but below Tajikistan and India. Despite Chinas increasing affluence, its spot has fallen for nearly a decade.

Discrimination persists in more nuanced ways, analysts say, from not hiring a woman near childbearing age to assuming a foreign male has more expertise.

Theres this perception that if you are the woman, you must be the translator, said Law Yee Ping, founder of Hong Kong Innovation Services, which works with makers in Shenzhen.

Law admitted to her own bias when she first heard about Wu. On second thought, I said, We have a right to choose what we wear.

Much like her wearable designs, Wu considers her visibility a tool to defy norms of appearance and profession. That commitment, she said, has only intensified.

Every day now, Im doing everything I can to promote women in tech, she said, before resuming her shopping  for a new microcontroller.

Meyers is a special correspondent.

Twitter: @jessicameyers

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Parents Sushma, left, and Vinod Singh pose with their daughter Lali at their residence in Saini Sunpura, 50 kilometers (31 miles) east of New Delhi, India, Tuesday, April 8, 2008.

A baby with two faces was born in a northern Indian village, where she is doing well and is being worshipped as the reincarnation of a Hindu goddess, her father said Tuesday.

The baby, Lali, apparently has an extremely rare condition known as craniofacial duplication, where a single head has two faces. Except for her ears, all of Lalis facial features are duplicated -- she has two noses, two pairs of lips and two pairs of eyes.

My daughter is fine -- like any other child, said Vinod Singh, 23, a poor farm worker.

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Lali has caused a sensation in the dusty village of Saini Sunpura, 25 miles east of New Delhi. When she left the hospital, eight hours after a normal delivery on March 11, she was swarmed by villagers, said Sabir Ali, the director of Saifi Hospital.

She drinks milk from her two mouths and opens and shuts all the four eyes at one time, Ali said.

Rural India is deeply superstitious and the little girl is being hailed as a return of the Hindu goddess of valor, Durga, a fiery deity traditionally depicted with three eyes and many arms.

Up to 100 people have been visiting Lali at her home every day to touch her feet out of respect, offer money and receive blessings, Singh told The Associated Press.

Lali is Gods gift to us, said Jaipal Singh, a member of the local village council. She has brought fame to our village.

Village chief Daulat Ram said he planned to build a temple to Durga in the village.

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I am writing to the state government to provide money to build the temple and help the parents look after their daughter, Ram said.

Lalis condition is often linked to serious health complications, but the doctor said she was doing well.

She is leading a normal life with no breathing difficulties, said Ali, adding that he saw no need for surgery.

Lalis parents were married in February 2007. Lali is their first child.

Singh said he took his daughter to a hospital in New Delhi where doctors suggested a CT scan to determine whether her internal organs were normal, but Singh said he felt it was unnecessary.

I dont feel the need of that at this stage as my daughter is behaving like a normal child, posing no problems, he said.
Progress requires reflection  revolution, even more so.

The left has traditionally been a political space prone to academic debate, the discussion of ideas, the creation of theories and the endless generation of texts. While its enough for the conservative right to simply bolster existing logic, progressivism has, at its core, the need to offer alternatives. Thus, the history of the left is marked by ideological conflicts, splits and confrontations over theoretical issues. This end of the political spectrum has also been frequently accused of indulging in intellectual finesse, moving away from popular sentiments  especially when compared to the anti-intellectualism that runs rampant in the extreme right.

Theres a widespread feeling that the imagination of the left has exhausted itself. One thinks of the popular quote that is often attributed to philosopher Frederic Jameson: Its easier to imagine the end of the world than the end of capitalism. Cultural theorist Mark Fisher, meanwhile, lamented the permanence of capitalist realism  that is, the idea that theres no alternative to capitalism (something that Margaret Thatcher already said, though she hailed from the other end of the political spectrum).

For this reason  and in view of the political decline of the left and the growth of right-wing and far-right options  its interesting to see who the lefts references are today. EL PAIS even conducted a survey to put together a list of the most influential thinkers among progressives at the moment. They include Karl Marx, Judith Butler, Antonio Gramsci, Thomas Piketty, Michel Foucault, Hannah Arendt, Simone de Beauvoir, Jurgen Habermas, Karl Polanyi and Walter Benjamin.

The left is based on the Enlightenment idea of human progress  on the conviction that our future is in our hands and that we must get involved, explains historian Juan Sisinio Perez Garzon, who has written about the history of the left in Spain, which has its roots in the French Revolutions motto of liberty, equality, fraternity (although the right has had great success in capitalizing on the concept of freedom). From 1789 until the present, programs consisting of maximums  revolutionary ideas in search of a new and better society  have warped into programs of minimums.

Social-democratic pragmatism has opted to accept the free market, liberal democracy and the national framework, the historian notes. It has been learned that revolutionary violence doesnt advance lasting social achievements any faster than through democratic channels.

Its worth asking what the ideological situation of the left is today, due to the repeated lack of imagination to propose new futures especially when it seems that the future wont even exist. More than imagination, what is needed is a sense of justice, says philosopher Laura Llevadot. Justice, she points out, is an urgent requirement, especially when inequality, precariousness, exploitation and exclusion exist. For [justice to be achieved], no imagination is needed, nor regulatory utopias, nor fabulating other possible worlds, she adds. Whats expected of so-called leftists  if something is still expected after so much betrayal  is that they dont sell out to capital, that they stand up to it and dont succumb to its imperatives of commodified creativity and imagination.

On the one hand, theres talk of a crisis within social democracy. Many attribute this to the fact that it has lost its essence, abandoning its beliefs by slowly subscribing to economic globalization. This erosion accelerated after the neoliberal revolution led by Reagan and Thatcher in the 1980s, which coincided with the collapse of the Soviet Union. However, if these were the main causes, we would have observed the progressive electorate move towards parties to the left of social democracy, which only happens to a minor extent, says political scientist Ignacio Sanchez-Cuenca. In any case, we are witnessing a gradual disappearance of the welfare state, which could be understood as the raison detre of this trend. Social democracy is in crisis if new ideas arent developed while maintaining the essence [of the ideology], warns sociologist Manuel Castells. And whats the essence? The welfare state and its relationship with trade unionism. If thats abandoned, [social democracy] will be liquidated, Castells clarifies. For the sociologist, new ideas dont come from parties, but rather, from social movements. Hence, its necessary to integrate them.

A future welfare state  or a new social contract  shouldnt be copied from the previous one, which flourished in the European post-war period, where the reduction of inequality was combined with sustained economic growth following World War II. Today, you cannot count on trade unions to make up a powerful base, as they did in the 20th century. Rather, emerging movements must be taken into account  such as LGBTQ, anti-racist and feminist collectives  political transparency and democratic participation must be deepend, while climate change and the technological revolution have to be dealt with head-on. Perhaps the concept of a basic income should be considered, as machines take over several jobs.

A false dilemma?

Its striking that the first place on the list of left-wing thinkers compiled by EL PAIS is still occupied by Karl Marx  the great father of the classical left. Judith Butler  a prominent figure in queer theory  is close behind. This says a lot about the times we live in today, when another of the alleged causes of the crisis on the left is the schism that exists between the material left and the identity left. The material left or classical left worries about the economy, labor, housing, the redistribution of wealth and food supply. Meanwhile, the identity left  or post-material left  is focused on feminism, LGBTQ groups, oppressed minorities, postcolonial theory, anti-racism and so on. Curiously, environmentalism is usually included in the second ideological pack, perhaps because it was incorporated into the discourse of the (new) left in the turbulent 1960s, like the aforementioned identity struggles.

Are these two schools of thought irreconcilable? No  and they never have been, until recently. The left used to want to help minorities materially, precisely by working to reduce inequality and thus incorporate people as full citizens. The more modern left, on the other hand, focuses on recognition  particularly on the recognition of difference, explains Mark Lilla, a professor of Political Science at Columbia University. Hes one of the biggest critics of identity currents in the United States. In American universities, many critics see a breeding ground for ideas that were strongly influenced by the French philosophers of the second-half of the 20th century, such as Foucault and Deleuze. French theory would anchor its roots in postmodern continental philosophy and in the social movements of the 1960s. The right has denounced this cultural Marxism that originates on college campuses, holding it responsible for cancel culture. They are critical of the woke.

What is being posed is a false dilemma: minorities are overrepresented among the working classes, and, conversely, the proportion of working classes is higher among racial minorities, explains Eric Fassin, professor of Sociology and Gender Studies at the University of Paris 8. Theres no reason to oppose the politics of recognition and redistribution, as distinguished by [feminist thinker] Nancy Fraser. For Fassin, right-wing figures such as Trump or Le Pen are primarily interested in dividing the popular classes according to class, race, gender or sexual orientations. He thinks that the left must reject these false narratives. According to Nancy Fraser, the dilemma between the redistribution of wealth and sociocultural recognition is real although its not obligatory to take sides. Rather, its necessary to form coalitions to respond through multiple and intertwined avenues to multiple and intertwined injustices within the economic and cultural spheres.

A broad and inclusive left cannot act with its back to reality, moved by nostalgia for a time that will never return, says Sanchez-Cuenca. If the left aims to protect the vulnerable and increase social equality, there should be no difference between majority or minority groups, or between identity and class, because class is also an identity. The challenge consists of establishing links between groups that are culturally very heterogeneous, the political scientist explains. In some countries this hasnt been achieved: sectors of the working class  the traditional base of the left  have fallen for the siren songs of the extreme right and the culture wars, many times voting against their own interests.

Degrowth and other post-capitalist views

Some segments of the left still look to the future with hope, or with the intention of avoiding a systemic collapse, as in the case of the degrowth movement. This ideology  pioneered by economists such as Serge Latouche  proposes a reduction in global consumption and production. It opposes the continuous growth around which the economy is structured, on a planet that has been pushed to the brink. We know that the main causes of human well-being are having access to public health, public education and economic security [these are] the things that matter. And, to achieve them, we dont need to grow, opines anthropologist Jason Hickel, the author of Less is More. His proposals include tax increases on wealth (the upper classes, he points out, are responsible for 72% of global emissions) or establishing both maximum and minimum incomes.

Mass consumption is key to the current situation, both quantitatively and qualitatively: If capitalism has triumphed, its because  unlike communism  it has understood how to appropriate narcissistic desire. It has promised fulfillment, visibility, creativity, petty-bourgeois luxuries [and] controlled addictions, while the moralistic left has limited itself to lecturing people, explains philosopher Laura Llevadot. She emphasizes the libidinal character of capitalism, as thinkers such as Mark Fisher, Nick Land, Gilles Deleuze and Pierre-Felix Guattari have noted. Llevadot proposes a notion of post-capitalist desire, which could be explained as a resistance to the desires that capital imposes on us: a bigger house, a faster car, free pornography, a few beers on the terrace desires that have insidious characteristics and are never fully satisfied, eroding the hopes of the younger generations as they play out.

Other groups propose thinking about how to accelerate the technological and social contradictions of capitalism, in order to reach a new historical phase. Nick Srnicek is one of the greatest exponents of left-wing accelerationism. The Canadian academic doesnt believe that left-wing thought is exhausted although it might have seemed so at the turn of the last century, when the dominant position of capitalism was accepted and post-capitalist thought was neglected. However, that situation has changed in the last 15 years since the 2008 [financial] crisis, I think there has been a flowering of ideas about how we could organize society in better ways, he notes. Hes referring to the currents of ecosocialism, platform socialism, projects on post-work and basic income, concerns about the use of free time and other theories that visualize alternatives for the future.

Faced with a future full of challenges  in a time of confusion and sorrow, according to historian Perez Garzon  its worth remembering that the history of the left is not necessarily the history of defeat. To a large extent, todays society is the result of the struggles faced by those who came before us. Looking back, we can verify that universal suffrage, the abolition of slavery, the eight-hour workday, decent wages, improved working conditions, unemployment benefits, health insurance, the right to strike, the fight against sexist violence or the right to abortion are attributable to left-wing movements and legislation. All of these are [victories] of the left. So, I dont think that were facing a lack of ideas: its just that we have new challenges to face on the horizon, the historian concludes.

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A squad of police marched. A letter from the governor was read aloud. There were tears as three-year-old Sharon Fahy unveiled the plaque naming the bridge for her father.

Missing from the crowd of 500 that assembled in Bethlehem 50 years ago this week was Philip J. Fahy himself.

The Bethlehem police officer died four years earlier, on Aug. 29, 1969, after a shootout during a traffic stop. (Fahys killer, who was wounded in the gunfight, died in prison in 2004 while serving a life sentence.)

The death, according to the ceremonys invocation, was an example of tragedy that should make us aware of the value of humanity, the Bethlehem Globe-Times reported on July 7, 1973. The paper recounted that Fahy was a three-year police veteran who planned to quit and go to college. He had been married for a year. His daughter was born several months after he died.

With the dedication, the New Street bridge became known as the Philip J. Fahy Memorial Bridge, connecting Southside Bethlehem with the north side at City Hall and police headquarters. The old two-lane bridge was replaced with the four-lane span starting in 1968. Its 1970 completion was short-lived as it was closed after a month due to buckling supports. After more delays, it finally opened to four-lane travel in June 1973  one more hour late as lines were painted.

Today, the Fahy Bridge accommodates pedestrians crossing between the north and south sides, and is a popular place to see Musikfest fireworks.

MORE LEHIGH VALLEY HISTORICAL HEADLINES THIS WEEK

 10 YEARS AGO | In 2013, the fledgling Colony Meadery plans to open its first location at an Allentown business incubator.  Town criers from the U.S. and Canada debate American independence  loudly, in hear ye fashion  in a new event for Easton Heritage Day.

 20 YEARS AGO | In 2003, a horse-racing track is proposed in Palmer Township. The plan presented by the Pennsylvania Horsemans Benevolence and Protection Association for 435 acres in the townships northern tier calls for a 1.1-mile track, thousands of slot machines and a new Route 33 interchange, with a goal of opening in two years.

 25 YEARS AGO | In 1998, folks flock to Washington Hardware for odds and ends as the Main Street mainstay in Washington Borough prepares to close after at least five decades in business. The store was also a landmark with its trademark giant red hammer sign.

 100 YEARS AGO | In 1923, South Side Easton celebrates Independence Day with its fourth annual baby parade, where costumed infants ride through town on floats. The Easton Express called it one of the finest pageants ever witnessed anywhere.  Blue Mountain Telegraph and Telephone Co. takes over the Slate Belt Telegraph and Telephone Co. for $65,000, giving it exclusive operating rights in that region.

This story is part of Lehigh Valley Then, a weekly series that recalls historical headlines from lehighvalleylive.com, The Express-Times and their predecessors from 10, 20, 25, 50 and 100 years ago. Headlines are pulled from microfilm at the Easton and Bethlehem area public libraries.

CLARIFICATION: A reference to Fahy being the second Bethlehem police officer killed on duty was removed from this story because its accuracy could not be verified.

Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to lehighvalleylive.com.

Steve Novak may be reached at snovak@lehighvalleylive.com.
Forks Township police are searching for a 30-year-old woman accused of the assault and robbery of two women she knows, officials said.

Taylor Marie Llorens, 30, of the first block of Saratoga Court, is facing a felony count of robbery, two summary counts of harassment, and misdemeanor counts of unauthorized use of a motor vehicle and simple assault in the incident.

Forks Police were called to Llorens home Saturday around 2 p.m., officials said. A victim reported Llorens assaulted her and another woman before stealing their cellphones and fleeing in the other womans 2016 Honda Fit sedan.

Llorens is accused of hitting one of the victims in the cheek and shoving the other onto a couch, police said. She forcefully grabbed each victims cellphone during the attacks, they said.

Llorens then drove off in the Honda, according to police. Police believe she could be headed to New York City, officials said.

A warrant has been obtained for Llorenss arrest and filed at the office of District Judge Susan Hutnik. Police described Llorens as white, 5 feet 6 inches tall and 130 pounds with brown hair and brown eyes. The Hondas license plate is JZV0324.

Those with information on Llorens whereabouts are asked to call Forks Township police at 610-759-2200.

Please subscribe now and support the local journalism YOU rely on and trust.

Pamela Sroka-Holzmann may be reached at pholzmann@lehighvalleylive.com.
The Easton Area School District is expected to lose about 400 students over the next 10 years, according to an enrollment study.

The school board paid FutureThink of Dublin, Ohio, to conduct the study prior to deciding whether to renovate the high school or build a new one.

State projections forecast a drop in the Easton Area districts enrollment, but a designer working on the high school project predicted enrollment would increase due to the number of new homes going up in the Easton area.

The enrollment study says 2,200 new homes are underway in the district. But that growth is offset by declining birth rates, according to FutureThink CEO Tracy Healy. She spoke to the school board at the June 20 meeting. You can see her comments on YouTube.

Her study shows that more school-age children are leaving Pennsylvania than are moving in.

The district is concerned about overcrowding at the high school and wants to plan accordingly as it considers whether to replace or renovate the aging building in Palmer Township.

That was the purpose and catalyst for this enrollment study, " Assistant Superintendent Josh Ziatyk said at the June 20 meeting.

Its unclear what effect the study will have on building plans. School board members and administrators didnt respond to a request for comment on the topic.

A presentation in April for the school board offered four high school options ranging in price from $204 million to $247 million. All of them call for a new pool to replace the outdated one built in the 1960s.

The board is expected to discuss high school options at the meeting July 18.

The school district paid FutureThink $12,750 for the study, but theyre getting their moneys worth, Ziatyk said. FutureThink has done enrollment studies for 570 school district with a high accuracy rate, Ziatyk said.

The Easton Area School Districts last enrollment study in 2014 was very inaccurate, Ziatyk said. He said enrollment trends ought to be reviewed after couple years.

A PowerPoint presentation of the enrollment study is on the school district website.

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Rudy Miller may be reached at rmiller@lehighvalleylive.com.
A Philadelphia-based tow yard is accused of running an organized criminal enterprise, netting the company millions from stolen catalytic converters bought from thieves and resold at profit, authorities said.

The Bucks County District Attorneys Office announced the arrests last week following a year-long investigation by local, state and federal law enforcement agencies across the state and New Jersey.

Eleven defendants  including 10 adults and a 17-year-old  are facing felony charges related to the incident, spanning the past three years.

Authorities describe the schemes ringleader as 52-year-old Michael Williams of Philadelphia, who operated TDI Towing at 2335 Wheatsheaf Lane. Williams himself is facing multiple felony charges related to the purchase and resale of the stolen catalytic converters, in addition to organized crime and corruption charges, according to court records.

The district attorneys office says many of the companys employees had a family connection to Williams. These includes Williams sister-in-law, Lisa Davalos, 47, of Philadelphia; as well as Eric Simpson, 41, of Philadelphia; Michael Bruce, 30, of Sewell, N.J.; Kevin Schwartz, 33, of Philadelphia; Patrick Hopkins, 24, of Philadelphia; and the 17-year-old.

The alleged thieves, known by law enforcement as cutters, include Michael Evangelist, 35, of Philadelphia; Anthony Davalos Sr., 43, of Philadelphia; Richard Allan Page, 39, of Warminster; and Gary Shirley, 48, of Hatboro. All but Page, who remains at large, have been arraigned on the charges, according to court records.

Mr. Williams believes he has been treated fairly thus far by the Buck County District Attorney and recognizes the severity of the allegations, Philadelphia-based attorney Bruce Castor Jr., representing Williams, told lehighvalleylive.com. I will review the evidence against him beyond that which has already been provided and advise him on his options going forward.

Like anyone accused of a crime, Mr. Williams is presumed to be innocent and the burden of proof rests with the Commonwealth. He will advance his position in court, however, and not in the press, Castor added.

Doylestown-based attorney, John J. Fioravanti Jr., representing Simpson, did not immediately return a request for comment Sunday afternoon. No attorney information was listed for Lisa Davalos, Bruce, Schwartz, Hopkins, Evangelist or Anthony Davalos Sr. in court records.

Alleged towing by day, criminal enterprise by night

Investigators say TDI Towing advertised itself as a daytime business.

But by night, the tow yard was the scene of a major criminal enterprise, they said.

Within a three-year span, TDI Towing purchased a total of $8.2 million worth of stolen catalytic converters from thieves before reselling them at an 8% markup, authorities say.

TDI came under scrutiny when law enforcement noticed a skyrocketing amount of stolen catalytic converters from 2020 to 2023 in Bucks County. The converters resemble small mufflers along an exhaust system and are designed to convert environmentally hazardous exhaust emitted by the engine and convert it into less harmful gases. To do this, they use platinum, palladium or rhodium.

The values of these precious metals has boomed since the start of the coronavirus pandemic, the National Insurance Crime Bureau says. As of June 30, rhodium sits at $2,700 per ounce, palladium at $1,202 per ounce and platinum at $903 per ounce, according to kitco.com.

Law enforcement began to focus not only on individual cutters, a name given to the thieves who steal and later resell the converters, but also the organizations or businesses buying the stolen goods. TDI Towing then became known as the main buyer of catalytic converters stolen in Bucks and Montgomery counties, authorities said.

Folks would arrive at all hours of the night to sell the parts, authorities said. Williams would take the catalytic converters from TDI Towing for resale and profit at another location, according to the DAs Office. This happened weekly and sometimes biweekly, with Williams dropping off about 50 catalytic converters per trip, authorities say.

The cutters included Evangelist, Anthony Davalos Sr., Page and Shirley, authorities say.

The tow yard was found to have bought an average of 175 catalytic converters weekly or 27,300 catalytic converters across the three-year span, the DAs Office says. At its peak, TDI Towing was paying a minimum of $10,000 a night to thieves coming to the tow yard to sell the stolen converters, according to authorities.

Some nights included 30 transactions with some thieves showing up more than once. On multiple occasions, TDI Towing was found to be paying $1,000 for a single converter and averaging $300 per converter, according to the DAs office.

The tow yard was so popular with thieves that in one case a catalytic converter was sawed off from a stolen vehicle right outside the yard, authorities said.

Hotline enacted

More arrests and charges could be forthcoming in the investigation, the DAs office says. Those who have more information or know of Pages whereabouts are asked to call Bucks County detectives at 215-348-6354 or visit www.bucksda.org.

The Bucks County District Attorneys Office has since enacted a Catalytic Converter Theft Ring hotline at 215-340-8899 and online form for those who suspect theyve been a victim of the alleged theft ring.

Authorities say these victims may be eligible for reimbursement for their loss. However, the hotline and restitution will be made available only to victims who had their catalytic converters stolen in Bucks County, which authorities describe as the rings target area.

Victims should provide proof, such as a police report, that their converter was stolen between 2020 and 2023, according to the form.

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Pamela Sroka-Holzmann may be reached at pholzmann@lehighvalleylive.com.
A man has been left in a critical condition following a two-car collision in Co Cork.

The crash took place at around 8.40pm on Saturday on McCurtain Street in Fermoy.

A passenger of one of the cars, a man in his 20s, was taken to Cork University Hospital; Gardai described his condition as critical.

A woman aged in her 50s, who was driving the other car, was taken to Cork University Hospital with serious but non-life threatening injuries.

The road at McCurtain Street remains closed on Sunday morning, with local diversions in place pending a forensic examination of the scene.

Gardai are investigating the incident, and are appealing for witnesses to come forward.

Road users who may have camera or dash-cam footage, and were travelling in the McCurtain Street area between 8.30pm and 9pm, are asked to share this footage with gardai.

People can contact Fermoy Garda station on 025 82100, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111 or any Garda station.
Art lovers in Laois have the whole of July to view a multi-media exhibition honouring the deep beauty, textures and colours of the county's boglands.

Artist Bridget Flannery (below speaking at the launch) recently opened her exhibition Looking/Seeing/Making BOGLANDS in the beautiful surroundings of the Laois Arthouse in Stradbally, including work of local artists. More below gallery of photos by Michael Scully.

The exhibition shares not just Bridget's artworks, but those created by her students in a four day course that took place in The Malthouse, Stradbally during June, as part of the adult summer arts programme by Laois County Council Arts Office and the Laois Arthouse, Stradbally.

It was officially opened by Cathaoirleach of Laois County Council, Cllr Thomasina Connell, and attended by Muireann Ni Chonaill Arts Officer and Angela Mc Evoy Director of Services, Laois Co Council.

Music at the opening was provided by Mountmellick Uilleann piper, Niamh Morris.

Over the four-days, Bridget had shared her work methods and experience to assist and guide students. It focused on development of work through sketchbook, word gathering, collage and material gathering, composition, texture, outdoor work and colour mixing.

Bridget Flannery is a visual artist living near the Laois-Carlow border in Ireland. She graduated from the Crawford College of Art and Design, Cork in 1981. Her work is mainly focused on painting and drawing. She has consistently exhibited in solo and group shows in Ireland and Europe. Her work is held in public and private collections nationally and internationally. Studio residencies include the Ballinglen Arts Foundation, Co. Mayo, Cill Rialaig Artists Retreat, Co. Kerry and The Tyrone Guthrie Centre in Co. Monaghan. She is represented by Solomon Fine Art, Dublin. She works as a Part-Time Learning Curator at VISUAL, Carlow and as a visiting tutor at Abbeyleix College of Further Education, ArtForm, Dunmore East, and numerous Plein Air painting events throughout the country.

The exhibition opened on Friday evening, June 16, supported by Laois County Council. It will remain open until the end of July.
ICSA Beef chair Edmund Graham has warned meat factories that their continued assault on beef prices is having a devastating effect at farm level and causing immense frustration amongst farmers.



The situation with beef prices has reached a tipping point. Producing beef only to get hammered by the processors and come out making a loss is completely unsustainable. Farmers are at their wits end, he said.



The power the processors wield has never been more evident as they continue to offer prices that simply do not reflect the actual cost of production. There appears to be no acknowledgement whatsoever of the challenges beef farmers have faced over the last year with input costs rising left right and centre. It has never been more costly to produce beef and the lack of any recognition of that fact has created a tinderbox situation out there.



Mr Graham said factories must refrain from any further price cuts, The recently published Teagasc National Farm Survey for 2022 shows just how little the average beef farmer is making. Teagasc themselves also put the basic cost of production at 6/kg, yet we are somehow being expected to take less than 5/kg. Adding insult to injury is the 2022 shows just how little the average beef farmer is making. Teagasc themselves also put the basic cost of production at 6/kg, yet we are somehow being expected to take less than 5/kg. Adding insult to injury is the fact that factories had encouraged farmers to feed cattle for May and June. A tipping point has been reached; there is literally no more they can take from farmers and still expect them to produce.
COUNCILLORS have approved plans for a new footpath in an area of County Limerick which has seen a number of road fatalities.

It comes after Limerick City and County Council's executive lodged an application for the path which will be constructed between Clarina village and Brick Lodge on the Ferrybridge side of the village.

The works will include the set back of the footpath six metres from the road and the creation of a four-metre shared surface.

With the current junction being considered dangerous, community groups in Clarina have called for this for years.

Since the development is taking place on public lands, it was the role of councillors to reject, approve or change it.

Members of the metropolitan district endorsed the proposal when it came before them at their monthly meeting.

Independent councillor for Patrickswell, Fergus Kilcoyne has welcomed the approval given to this new path.

He said it was his own notice of motion, from July 8, 2019 when he had just joined the local authority which got the ball rolling on this.

In the motion, he pointed out there had been numerous fatalities in the area over the years.

Fellow Patrickswell councillor Dan McSweeney also welcomed the approval.

He said: This is a major advancement for this long awaited scheme which the community have waited many years for. Its brilliant news for the area of Clarina/Ballybrown, it is a project I have worked extremely hard on for the last four years with council Staff and at times it has moved slowly but today we can look back and see how far this scheme has come.

Paying tribute to council staff, he said he hopes to see diggers on the ground soon.
GRACE Cussen, a sixth-class student at Scoil Mhuire Broadford, has won a competition aimed to raise awareness about the dangers of carbon monoxide and the significance of having carbon monoxide alarms in 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 entries from all over Ireland, but it was Graces poster which was deemed the overall winner.

Her winning poster outlined the dangers of carbon monoxide and the importance of having a carbon monoxide alarm in your home.

Speaking as she presented Scoil Mhuire Broadford with an iPad for use in their school classroom, Gas Networks Irelands Social Sustainability Manager, Grainne OReilly said: "Science, technology, engineering and maths expertise is at the centre of our business, so were big supporters of STEAM education. Congratulations to Grace and indeed all in Scoil Mhuire Broadford for winning term three of the 2022/23 Energize poster competition. Particularly as art is such a wonderful medium to use when engaging with STEAM, so we are always excited to see so many creative entries.

Michael Boyce, sixth-class teacher at Scoil Mhuire, commented: "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 Grace won this award. All of the class engaged in the poster competition and grasped the important safety messages related to carbon monoxide with wonderful creativity. Thanks to JAI, Mary Barrett from University of Limerick, and Gas Networks Ireland; who helped deliver the programme.
Some mornings, when she leaves her house for work, Lude must avoid the street and cross through her neighbors properties, climbing the walls that separate them, until she can get out of Clercine, her neighborhood. Once she makes it out  after several jumps  she can finally walk normally and take the taptap, a kind of minibus that will take her to the office.

Lude  the pseudonym given by this 30-year-old woman  allows her neighbors to do the same with her property. Its like a solidarity agreement. On some morning in Clercine, men and women  wearing shirts, ties and skirts  scale the walls to get out of their own neighborhood. This cruel reality is representative of Port-au-Price, the capital of Haiti. Clercine is on the frontlines of the battle, situated along the border between two gangs that aspire to control the area. Chen Mechan  which could be translated from Creole (the countrys official language) as crazy dogs  and 400 Mawozo are the two street gangs fighting over territory. Sometimes, they shoot each other with rifles and pistols. They go on patrol, looking for people to rob. During these moments of strife, Lude and her neighbors scale the walls to avoid trouble.

Dalia, who lives hidden in a shelter in Port-au-Prince. Alfons Rodriguez

Lude once lived in another nearby neighborhood, La Croix-des-Bouquets. One morning in 2019, she was walking with her uncle when two gang members approached them. They stole everything. Once they were done, they shot Ludes uncle in the face. For the pleasure of it, she recalls. Her mother heard the shots from home. After that murder, Lude and her family moved to Clercine. Years later, the confrontation between the two armed groups began. Specifically, on the night of April 23, 2022, when hundreds of residents were killed indiscriminately. A massacre, says Lude.

If they told me a few years ago that I would have to [climb over walls to get to work], I wouldnt have believed it, says Lude, sitting in a church pew. She has chosen this place to speak, away from the surveillance of the gangs. To get here, we had to go look for her in Clercine. But as we arrived, she called us: Dont come. Wait for me two streets down. The gangsters have set up a checkpoint. We pulled over.

She tells us that life in Port-au-Prince is impossible. Its not life, she whispers. The gangs have taken control  we have no police or rulers. There are kidnappings, gunshots... I dont do anything other than be at home or at work. Theres no future in this country.

I miss being able to go down the street, to be able to go out, to walk calmly. I miss not being afraid, Lude sighs, before saying goodbye.

If you could, would you leave the country?

Tomorrow. Sorry  today. I would leave today.

Marie Lancie Fanor, 69. She has been displaced from her neighborhood due to continuous fighting between armed gangs. Alfons Rodriguez

Theres a war in Port-au-Prince. There are frontlines, armed groups and displaced civilians. Women and girls are raped; men are killed by the thousands.

The only difference is that this war has not been declared. Not officially, at least. And this has huge downsides, the main one being that no foreign country is helping Haitians while their country bleeds to death.

Lude lives in a neighborhood located on the front lines of the battle between two armed gangs. Every morning, she moves from house to house, so as not to step on the street. Alfons Rodriguez

The root of the problem can be found in the almost-total absence of the state. This societal collapse began in 2010, in the most symbolic way possible: a devastating earthquake left Port-au-Prince in ruins, with more than 300,000 people dead. It was a macabre finishing touch to what was already a drift inherited from the 1960s, when Francois Papa Doc Duvalier set himself up as dictator for life. He was succeeded 20 years later by his son, Baby Doc. Between the father and son, they launched a regime of terror that, according to the United Nations, left at least 50,000 dead in the country. The secret police  known as the Ton-Ton Macoute (boogeymen)  continued to kill even years after the Duvalier regime ended, in the form of paramilitary groups. Despite the arrival of democracy, instability and corruption became entrenched in Haiti.

In August 2021, another devastating earthquake hit the country. And, just one month earlier, then-president Jovenel Moise was assassinated by Colombian mercenaries in his home  an attack in which political intrigue, business interests and affairs that begin in Haiti and end in Washington were mixed. From that day until the present, Haiti has been without a head of state. There isnt a single elected member of parliament. In fact, the legislative building doesnt even exist  it collapsed during the earthquake and was subsequently abandoned. On paper, Prime Minister Ariel Henry is the acting head of state, although hes surrounded by a very small clique, with the majority of the population opposed to him. In Haiti, in real terms, nobody is in charge.

Merline lives in a shelter at the Famille Kizito mission. Hundreds of children live abandoned in the streets of the Haitian capital Alfons Rodriguez

Esther, 22, with her two children, Roben, five, and Robenson, four. They live in the Waff Jeremie neighborhood. Alfons Rodriguez

There are no public sanitation services, there arent enough police and theres hardly any healthcare infrastructure. Almost half of Haitis population is experiencing hunger, according to the latest report from the World Food Program. There are no trials: 85% of the prisoners havent gone through the courts, which are paralyzed. There isnt even power: the country relies on generators that it obtains from a private company owned by one of Haitis elite families. Haiti has collapsed, but business can always be done.

When one arrives at the Port-au-Prince airport, one becomes fully aware of the dire situation. Theres only one plane on the runway. Inside the terminal, the corridors are dark and empty. A listless customs officer silently stamps passports. The uncertainty of lawlessness begins as soon as you leave the airport.

A neighborhood checkpoint in the Pacot neighborhood. Alfons Rodriguez

A young man walks past a mural with the name of an armed gang from the Boston neighborhood of Cite Soleil. Alfons Rodriguez

Yuri Mevs  a businesswoman and member of the Haitian oligarchy  lives this situation from above. Literally  geography is also metaphorical in Port-au-Prince. High up, in the mountains of Petion-Ville  the district where the capitals wealthiest neighborhood can be found  three-story mansions with swimming pools rise above shanty towns, displaying a graphic contrast. Some 20 families make up Haitis elite, almost all of them of European and Arab origin. They control the main companies and political parties. They spend the weekends in their second homes in Miami or New York, where their children usually study. An army of private security companies patrols this area, keeping reality at a distance.

Mevs runs Shodecosa  the countrys largest industrial park  located in Cite Soleil, the poorest district of Port-au-Prince. I dont want to, but if things dont improve, I will have no choice but to sell what I have and leave. My daughters will do the same. The situation here is close to untenable.

A shanty town in the Petion-Ville district of Port-au-Prince. Alfons Rodriguez

At the foot of the Petion-Ville hills, the city is tortuous. Hostile. If it doesnt rain, a layer of white dust forms under the enormous sun  a kind of photographic filter that turns the streets into a blurry and confusing landscape, like the images of a dream. If it rains, the city becomes a quagmire, where garbage and mud fuse together. The streets are full of potholes, where pools of dirty water form. There are mountains of rubbish everywhere, with goats and pigs eating from them. Battered cars, noisy motorcycles, unbreathable street markets, collapsed buildings, broken traffic lights (not a single one works in the city), stagnant green water at the entrance to a supermarket... nobody has been hired to clean up, nobody regulates traffic, nobody repairs the damage. Nobody takes care of Port-au-Prince.

Leica is eight years old. Her parents left her at the door of the Famille Kizito shelter for girls, in the Cite Soleil neighborhood of Port-au-Prince. Alfons Rodriguez

The state is absent, summarizes Milo Milford, 36, an independent Haitian journalist. He receives us in a small and modest office, where he works on pieces for various media outlets. He belongs to a middle class that is practically extinct in the country. Almost everyone has left. The Haitian diaspora is immense. Those of us who stay do so out of militancy. So much so that, if the diaspora stopped sending money tomorrow, Haiti would go bankrupt in 24 hours.

This diagnosis is shared by Maryse Penette-Kedar, president of the Progress and Development Foundation. Shes one of the cultural engines of the city: her living room is open for gatherings, lectures and debates. The most essential people have left, she explains. In this country, there are only the poor  who cannot help  and the rich, who dont want to.

The consequence of the disappearance of the state is that the armed gangs have taken its place, Milo says. More than 60% of Port-au-Prince is controlled by these groups. In some neighborhoods  such as Martissant and Bel Air, very close to the downtown  the police havent been around in months. The residents live under gang rule. If they have any problem or request, they must go to the gang leaders, who tax business and even issue permits to build or repair homes. They act as a proto-state.

An armored police vehicle in downtown Port-au-Prince. Alfons Rodriguez

Other neighborhoods arent strictly controlled by gangs and there is a police presence. But this doesnt mean that theyre free of incidents  gangs come out at night on patrol and attack anyone they come across. Its estimated that there are about 160 armed gangs in Port-au-Prince. There are hardly any zones free of violence. According to a report by the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, between January and March 2023, 1,634 violent assaults  including murders and rapes  took place in Port-au-Prince. More than 18 episodes of extreme violence a day. Once the sun goes down, an unspoken curfew goes into effect. Leaving home at night simply doesnt make sense in Port-au-Prince.

The two most powerful gangs are G-PEP and G9 & Family. The latter is an alliance of various gangs led by Jimmy Cherizier  alias Barbecue  a well-known figure in Haiti who gives press conferences, amasses millions of dollars and has even blocked the citys port, preventing the entry of goods and food. Barbecue is seen by many as the future mayor of the city  there have been public calls to distinguish between criminal gangs and armed groups driven by ideology. The latter groups are well-organized bodies, heavily armed with both weapons and political discourse. Barbecue  more than the leader of a gang  is almost like a military leader.

Sister Paesie, a French nun settled in the Cite Soleil neighborhood, where she has been helping families in extreme situations for 20 years. Alfons Rodriguez

To enter a neighborhood controlled by a gang, you need the permission of their boss. In Boston  a neighborhood in the heavily punished Cite Soleil district  Matias is in charge. Hes a well-dressed young man who drives a white SUV with tinted windows over dirt roads and potholes. His gang is part of the G9. Thanks to the Salesian parish priest of the neighborhood, Matias gives us the green light to visit his territory. We do it accompanied by Daniel, his lieutenant.

Boston  like almost all of Cite Soleil  is a neighborhood made up of shacks and humble houses, where the garbage scattered along the streets. In some areas, its knee-deep. Its been two years since a policeman has set foot here. If he did, hed be killed. In an instant, Daniel calmly explains. In the background, there are shots coming from Brooklyn  the next neighborhood over, which is controlled by G-PEP, the rival gang. Three walls separate both areas. If someone even comes close to the border, theres a good chance that theyll be shot.

In Boston, we meet Sister Paesie  a French nun who has lived here for more than 20 years. She has rented a house in the middle of the neighborhood and  thanks to private donations  is dedicated to rescuing street children and welcoming them into the homes and schools that she herself has built as part of her Famille Kizito mission. Sister Paesie tries to get the head of the G-PEP to admit us to Brooklyn, but the answer is a firm no. If youve been in rival territory, its not feasible to cross the border.

Milo Milford, 36, a freelance journalist, in his office. Alfons Rodriguez

Sister Paesie has to talk to gang leaders because, in these districts, they are the state. International agencies, NGOs, or ambulances dont enter here. When theres a corpse, [the gangs] notify me, so that I can take it out of the neighborhood and they can pick it up, she explains. Its true that, for some time now, [the corpses] have been burned. Dont believe that its for health reasons  they do it because, according to their magical beliefs, if you dont burn the dead body, it can take revenge on you in another life. Along with God, everyone here believes deeply in voodoo.

Sister Paesie shows us one of the shelters. At the entrance, dozens of women crowd around, waiting to ask for help. Every day, I have no less than 10 requests from mothers who want to leave their children here. In the house, Sister Paesie introduces us to a smiling young woman. Shes been hiding here for two years: a gang leader wants her to be his wife and were protecting her. The last threat to the girl was sent by the boss through her sister: he raped her and told her that he hadnt forgotten about her. Some families sell their daughters to the gangs, so that they can be supported financially. Its pure survival, Sister Paesie concludes.

Joseph Inerrimen, 19, a member of the G-PEP gang, after being shot. Alfons Rodriguez

In Waf Jeremie  another forgotten neighborhood, south of Cite Soleil  Elio speaks to us. Hes a Brazilian missionary from Belem Mission. He shows us the hospital that theyre building. You can only do this if Mikano gives you permission, he explains. Mikano is the head of the gang that controls Waf Jeremie  hes the one who has authorized our entry. Hes famous in the city: according to a local journalist, he proclaimed himself king a few weeks ago  he ordered the construction of a castle in the neighborhood and a throne on which he sits. Mikano has also demanded that all the adolescent girls of War Jeremie lose their virginity to him. It can be said that this guy has raped all the girls in the neighborhood, the journalist laments.

We ask Mikano for an interview, but he refuses. He later agrees but in return, he wants $10,000. These bosses are millionaires. They drive high-end cars, wear the best sneakers and record video clips. The kids are fascinated by them, explains Elio, after informing the boss that weve declined his proposal.

Joseph Inerrimen is 19-years-old and belongs to the G-PEP gang. He is in a Doctors Without Borders (MSF) hospital because, a few days ago, he was shot while riding a motorcycle. We ask him if hell return to his neighborhood when he recovers. Where else would I go? he snaps, his expression angry and disgusted. We ask him how long hes been in his gang. Since I was born, he replies.

Here, theres no authority or control, Elio affirms. Again, the absence of the state appears. Most of the locals eat only once a day its very rare to find a 17-year-old girl whos not a mother. Many people dont even have a birth certificate: officially, they dont exist.

A street in the Boston neighborhood, in Cite Soleil, the hardest-hit district of Port-au-Prince, where tons of garbage has accumulated. Alfons Rodriguez

The most explicit symbolism of gang power is found in the center of the capital, the political and financial heart of Haiti. The G9 has controlled it for months  its impassable. On a visit to its edges  marked by the Champ de Mars square  we see streets that are covered with rubbish and emptied of people. The residents have been gone for months. The paradox is brutal: here is where the City Hall and the government ministries are located. All empty and unapproachable. The prime ministers office is also here, which offers the most symbolic image: the occupant of the office hasnt been able to enter for a long time. The only building in operation is the Bank of the Republic  the police keep it accessible to avert the total collapse of Haiti. From Monday to Friday, between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m., the agents form a corridor along Casernes street, to allow bank workers to reach the building.

Haiti has lost its heart. The gangs have controlled it for months. The problem  just one of them  is that most of these gangs are at war, turning Port-au-Prince into a literal battlefield. The shootings are constant. Its very rare to travel through the city without hearing shots from time to time. One gets used to it in a few days. The locals are unfazed.

When two warring gangs control adjacent neighborhoods, problematic borders are created, such as Boston and Brooklyn. Sometimes, these fractures are physical: numerous Port-au-Prince neighborhoods are separated by walls, barricades and checkpoints, which are controlled by gang members who are armed with rifles. Without permission, you cannot enter. A resident of one neighborhood cannot access another: if they did so without permission, they would be assassinated, accused of spying or collaborating. This is what day-to-day life is like in the Haitian capital.

Richemor is 18-years-old. Hes a student in one of the professional training courses given by the Salesian Don Bosco mission in Haiti. The school is located in La Saline  a very poor neighborhood controlled by a gang that is part of the G9 alliance. The problem is that he lives in another neighborhood controlled by the G-PEP, the rivals. Every day, he has to cross three borders  three checkpoints, guarded by armed men  to get to school. The journey takes more than two hours. At the crossing points, they know me  thats why they let me continue. But there are many days that I cant reach, because theres a battle and theres shooting. On those days, I dont go to class, he says, while sitting in the school.

All the residents of Port-au-Prince have a very clear map in their heads. They know which neighborhoods are accessible and which are not. Where there are police and where there are gang members. They know which street they can walk through and when to turn around. They usually divide the city up into red (prohibited), yellow (there are gangs, but theres also a police presence) and green zones. A neighbor replies: Green? There have been no green areas in Port-au-Prince for years! Memorizing this map is truly a matter of life and death.

Milo the journalist says that, on many occasions, it has been impossible for him to return home from the office. I have everything prepared here in the newsroom to be able to spend up to two weeks [inside]. Its already happened to me several times, he explains, showing us the small kitchenette and the bed.

This isnt an extraordinary case. Many residents of Port-au-Prince sleep at their jobs  the crossfire prevents them from returning home.

Episodes of gang violence reach their peak when one group decides to occupy a neighborhood. They take no prisoners: gang members consider residents to be potential enemies and kill as many as they can. Port-au-Prince has experienced massacres typical of a war.

People on a motorcycle drive down a flood street in Port-au-Prince. Alfons Rodriguez

On May 24, Danielle Lamothe, 54, a widow, was sleeping at home. In the next room was her 18-year-old son. It was around 2 a.m. in the Canape Vert neighborhood, a quiet area south of the capital. As if taken from a horror script, suddenly, Danielle heard noises in the distance. In the shape of a wave, the murmur grew closer, until it entered her bedroom: motors, shots, terrible screams. Danielle sat up  as she walked out of her room, a crash of glass exploded in the living room. My son came out of his room and we hugged as they banged on the door to try to break it down. Since they couldnt knock it down, they shot at the lock, Danielle says, from her bed in an MSF hospital. One of those bullets hit Danielles shoulder. Next to her, dozens of men, women and children are lying in hospital beds, all shot.

MSF explains that in their hospital alone, they treat more than 10 patients wounded by gunshots every day. In my neighborhood there were never gangs. I thought that was in other areas of the city, Daniella says. But it happened: on that night, the Ti Makak gang  from the Laboule 12 district  tried to take control of Canape Vert. Hundreds of residents were murdered. Today, many parts of the neighborhood remain empty. Im not going back, Danielle declares. Bel Air, Martissant, Delmas 6, Bicentenaire, dozens of neighborhoods in Port-au-Prince seem to be abandoned movie sets. Ghost towns where activity was bustling not so long ago. No state presence, no residents. Lifeless.

In reality, the gangs that control these forgotten slums and mountain mansions arent that far away. According to Milo Milford, some of the families of the Haitian oligarchy finance the gangs, supplying them with weapons and using them to destabilize the country. Security isnt a priority for them. The struggle for power comes first. And, in that struggle, the armed wings are the gangs.

But the monster has now been overfed and threatens to devour them all. For months, the gangs have been out of control. Not even the richest families are safe, explains Patrice Dumont, a former senator who receives us in his residence. A rain of kidnappings has gripped the capital: between January and March of 2023 alone, 389 kidnappings took place in the country, according to data from the Center for Human Rights Analysis and Investigation (CARDH). Almost five kidnappings a day, which makes for a huge source of financing. Scientists, teachers, journalists, businessmen and doctors travel through the city at full speed, in cars with tinted windows, and with the mental map ever-present. The targets of the kidnappings are precisely the people that Haiti needs the most. And theyre all leaving, Dumont concludes.

A burned body on a street in the Pacot neighborhood, minutes after the man  accused of being a gang member  was killed by members of the Bwa Kale neighborhood watch movement. Alfons Rodriguez

Since the end of May, the circle of violence has been closed by the Bwa Kale movement. This organized reaction has come out of several neighborhoods, especially those that never lived with gangs before and that, today, are being threatened. The movement was born in Canape Vert  precisely the night that Danielle Lamothes house was attacked. The day of violence ended with a mob of local residents taking the gang members out of the police station where they were being held to lynch and burn them. Since then, groups of residents have controlled the neighborhood, setting up checkpoints with barricades. They are called watchmen.

This vigilante movement has spread to nearby neighborhoods. In Pacot, we come across one of these barricades. A tree and a semi-dismantled truck block the way  the young people manning the checkpoint shout at us to stop. They approach and run a metal detector over us  they ask us questions, but the sound of gunshots distracts them. A few streets up, a reported gang member has been shot down. The body is tied to a motorcycle, dragged to the entrance of a supermarket and burned. The torched body will remain there for 24 hours, as a warning, while pedestrians and cars go about their business.

Again, for the umpteenth time, we witness the absence of the state: neighbors who get organized, to defend themselves in the face of police ineffectiveness. More violence in a city that has reached its limit. Port-au-Prince is truly a lawless land. And, for now, no one seems to care. The collapse of Haiti continues.

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PLANS to further expand Dublin Airport beggar belief when there is capacity in Shannon Airport, Limerick Chamber has said.

Bosses at the capital's airport are bidding to increase the numbers through the facility, potentially through the construction of a new runway.

However, Limerick Chamber, which is the biggest business representative body in the Mid-West, has called on government to step in and force the use of the capacity available in Shannon.

Chief executive Dee Ryan said: It beggars belief that in 2023, when faced with stark regional disparities and housing pressures, the government has not taken National Aviation Policy by the scruff of the neck and reworked it to support delivery of jobs and housing in Cork, Kerry, Limerick, Tipperary, Clare and Galway.

She said there are obvious consequences to the overdevelopment of Dublin Airport.

It is time for government to take the matter in hand and deal with it. Yes - route connectivity is essential to the national economy and to sustain the businesses that we have. No - it does not all need to come through one airport.

Chamber has called on government to include all airports with under three million passengers yearly to be able to compete for State funding.

Up to 2020, Shannon Airport bosses were not able to do this.

It's worrying, Ms Ryan said, that following Britain's decision to leave the European Union (EU), Shannon Airport no longer has direct daily connectivity to a hub airport on the continent.

Having surveyed its members Limerick Chamber says it found a lack of EU hub service and poor public transport links are the two main inhibiting factors to businesses in the Mid-West using their local airport.

Chamber chief economist Sean Golden said: Limerick Chamber has long been an advocate for using aviation policy as a tool for encouraging more balanced regional development. In 2019 we contracted Copenhagen Economics to undertake an aviation study of the Mid-West and West. Many of their recommendations and observations remain valid to this day, there is an over reliance on Dublin, there is large, underutilised capacity in regional airports, the need for an updated National Aviation Policy and of course, that state-owned regional airports, such as Shannon and Cork, should be included in the plan long-term.

Regional airports, he added, have huge potential to help Ireland grow in the long-term.
A MAN has been charged at a special court sitting this Sunday afternoon in connection with a fire at a historic building in Limerick city in the early hours of Saturday morning.

Patrick O'Donovan, aged 26, of Hyde Avenue, Ballinacurra Weston, Limerick city appeared before Judge Carol Anne Coolican in Newcastle West Court.

Garda Peter Connolly gave evidence of arresting and charging Mr O'Donovan with five offences. Mr O'Donovan is accused of burglary with intent to cause criminal damage at Sailors' Home, O'Curry Street, Limerick city on Saturday, July 1.

Mr O'Donovan is also accused of four criminal damage by fire incidents on vehicles in the O'Curry Street and Henry Street areas of the city.

Garda Connolly said Mr O'Donovan made no reply to each of the five charges after caution.

Inspector Vincent Brick, prosecuting, objected to bail on behalf of the State.

Lee-Ann Purcell, solicitor for Mr O'Donovan, said they were reserving their position in relation to bail.

Judge Coolican remanded Mr O'Donovan in custody to appear in Limerick District Court via videolink later this coming week.

Ms Purcell made an application, which was granted by the judge, that her client receive all medical treatment necessary in custody. Legal aid was also granted as Mr O'Donovan was "not working".

A brother of the accused - Jason O'Donovan, aged 32, of Hyde Avenue, Ballinacurra Weston was also charged at the special court sitting.

He is accused of causing criminal damage to a garda jeep outside Henry Street garda station on Saturday, July 1. Bail was granted subject to a number of conditions.

The case was adjourned until September for DPP's directions.
Byju's has recently addressed the concerns of its employees in a town hall meeting amid the ongoing crisis. The town hall meeting, presided over by the co-founder and CEO of Byju's Byju Raveendran , was aimed to instill confidence in employees during this challenging period in the organization.

After the event, Byju's co-founder Divya Gokulnath took to Instagram and shared positive messages from employees. Moneycontrol reported that the employees reached out to Divya Gokulnath after the meeting that took place about the recent happenings at the company.

Outpouring of love, Gokulnath termed the messages on the social media site. In the messages, one employee wrote, We didnt come this far to just come thus far."

Hey Divya, when the going gets tough, the tough gets going  this is exactly how I felt post the town hall. Addressing all issues with so much clarity has helped clear the air acrossyes, we have challenges, but we will all stick together to address and overcome each one of them. We have not come this far, just to come this far," a second employee said.

Another employee expressed his happiness that the company's CEO has directly addressed their concerns and clarified all doubts. In messages, he said that Byju's will eventually defeat all the current challenges, Moneycontrol reported.

At a town hall meeting organized by the Bengaluru-based firm, Raveendran reassured the employees that the company had amicably ended its associations with Deloitte as well as its board members, and was working diligently to resolve the bondholder issue at the earliest.

While he did not say anything about the layoffs, or the delays in remitting provident fund amounts and realigning certain loss-making businesses within the group during the town hall, in an email addressed to all employees on Thursday evening he said: My heart goes out to each and every team member who is facing the difficult reality of downsizing, a decision that was made as a last resort and with a heavy heart."

The company will grow more sustainably going forward", he added.
With a dream of reforming India's fast food culture, an IT professional turned entrepreneur Biraja Rout established a quick-service restaurant chain called Biggies Burger in 2016 which offers a delightful taste of authentic grilled burgers to its customers.

For Biraja Rout, a burger was more than just a meal, a representation of a statement, and a symbol of being a part of the global community when he envisioned Biggies Burger, the founder said.

A burger is not merely a food item; it embodies convenience, a complete meal packed with the perfect combination of bread, protein, vegetables, and sauces. Unlike traditional Indian delicacies, which often require accompaniments like raita or kebabs, a single burger provides a satiating dining experience on its own," he told Livemint.

Rout revealed that he tasted burgers for the first time at the age of 21 years of his life when he shifted to Bengaluru to work at Infosys. This is when he had fallen in love with burgers.

The moment Biraja Rout started doing research on burgers, he figured out that Indian consumers literally did not have a single Indian homegrown burger chain to choose from years back. In the end, they are left with the options of American burger chains. And here, Biraja found a golden opportunity to scale up a global burger QSR from India.

No business experience, Biraja only had 20,000 in hand and the passion to build an Indian QSR Burger chain in the country.

I started from scratch which includes a basic understanding of burger ingredients, and the art of making it from YouTube and blogs. After diving deep into the burger-making process, I came up with a small kiosk that was 5x5 feet where I started Biggies Burger. I spent my weekends selling burgers at my kiosk near my office which attracted food enthusiasts from all around. The struggle to start Biggies Burger yielded initial results when one of my customers volunteered to take a franchise Biggies Burger. Today we are a franchising-led business," the food chain's founder told us.

Biggies Burger is super conscious about its product quality. The company even started the Biggies Entrepreneur Programme that solely focuses on training its franchisees to become successful foodpreneurs.

Earlier, Biraja's vision was to build a homegrown burger chain that offered a diversified menu that keeps the customer delighted, but now it has been expanded to grow the food business on an international level too.

Also I wanted to take this global delicacy to the Tier II and III cities making it accessible to the consumers who never tasted authentic burgers. Our recent funding round aimed at the same and today we are already seeing success in our mission to take Biggies Burger to tier II and III cities," he told Livemint.

In addition, the company has also entered the cafe segment with BIGG Cafe, the gourmet burger cafe.

I am immensely proud of Biggies Burger's journey from a small kiosk to its current position as India's oldest and largest homegrown burger chain and look forward to continuing our growth while maintaining our focus on quality, customer satisfaction, and creating opportunities for aspiring foodpreneurs."

Speaking about the specialty of its product, Biraja asserted that Biggies Burger takes pride in crafting burgers that resonate with the Indian palate while maintaining international standards of taste and quality.

Our commitment to innovation and creating a delightful customer experience sets us apart in the competitive QSR landscape. With Biggies Burger, customers get to enjoy the best of both worlds  the familiarity of global QSR chains and the uniqueness of flavors inspired by Indian cuisine," he said.

This year, Biggies Burger strives to achieve a revenue of 100 crore with its primary focus on increasing the store count and venturing into new regions, Biraja said.

Currently, it has a mix of franchisee-owned and franchisee-operated (FOFO) stores, company-owned and franchisee-operated (COCO) stores, and a few company-owned and company-operated (COCO) stores. Moving forward, the founder aims to establish more FOCO and COCO model stores in cities like Bangalore, Hyderabad, and Pune.

We are proud to announce that we are looking at reaching a revenue of 100 crores. This milestone is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our team, as well as the support and loyalty of our valued customers," he added.
New Delhi: The union minister of state (Independent Charge) for science and technology, Jitendra Singh has said that StartUps Intellectual Property Rights Protection scheme is aimed at promoting innovation and entrepreneurship.

Addressing the National Intellectual Property Festival, Singh said that the filing of intellectual property rights (IPR) including patents and trademark by startups, along with industry linkages will encourage innovation and motivate enterprise in India.

The scheme envisages 80% rebate in patent filing and 40%-50% rebate compared to the conventional industries and the companies, he said

You can couple the StartUps, eg. you have the Mudra scheme, which offers you a loan of 10-20 lakhs without any gratuity, mortgage, almost interest free," he said.

Government launched the scheme, Startups Intellectual Property Protection (SIPP) for encouraging innovation and creativity of startups. Under the new Trademark Rules, Startups have been given a 50% rebate in filing fees compared to other companies.

Even for promotion of registration of Industrial Designs by StartUps as per the new design amendment rules 2021, the government has reduced filing and prosecution fees for small entities.

Jitendra Singh called for combining the digital repository of traditional knowledge and heritage with the modern scientific innovation and by institutionalizing this mechanism, we can gain cutting edge in sectors such as Khadi, Aroma Mission and Lavender cultivation.

I am convinced this is one of the best times happening, optimum times happening, and if we are into this StartUp IPR protection, we have the advantage of supplementing our StartUp ventures with our traditional knowledge, which is not happening as frequently as it could happen here. And if we do that, we would actually have an edge over other countries," he said.

Secretary, DPIIT, Rajesh Kumar Singh and senior scientists and officials of CSIR and DST were present on the occasion.
This week, streaming platforms are offering a diverse lineup of entertainment to captivate audiences. From highly anticipated Hindi drama 'Pyaar Ka Pehla Adhyaya Shivshakti' to the English movie The Art of Incarceration, there's something for everyone. Here's a glimpse of what's in store on OTT platforms this week:

The Art of Incarceration - Netflix (July 3)

Directed by Alex Siddons, this English-language documentary takes place at Victoria's Fulham Correctional Centre. First Nation prisoners share their experiences with art, culture, history, and identity, attempting to transcend the shackles and cycles of imprisonment. The film features individuals such as Jack Charles, Robby Wirramanda, Christopher Austin, and Troy.

Pyaar Ka Pehla Adhyaya Shivshakti - Zee5 (July 3)

This Hindi drama show revolves around Shiv, a successful doctor with a crumbling personal life. Shakti, an orphan, has a nurturing nature. Will Shakti heal Shiv's broken self? Find out in this engaging series premiering on Zee5.

Insidious: The Red Door - Theatres (July 7)

The fifth instalment of the Insidious franchise, 'Insidious: The Red Door' serves as a direct sequel to 'Insidious' and 'Insidious: Chapter 2'. The story follows Dalton Lambert, the son of Josh Lambert, who is haunted by repressed demons from his past as he prepares for college. Josh and Dalton venture beyond the infamous red door, facing horrifying terrors. Patrick Wilson, who also makes his directorial debut, stars as Josh alongside Ty Simpkins, Rose Byrne, Lin Shaye, Andrew Astor, and Hiam Abbass.

Also read: The Kerala Story can't find offers from any OTT platform, makers say getting punished for

Tarla - Zee5 (July 7)

'Tarla' is a Hindi-language biographical drama portraying the life of renowned Indian female chef Tarla Dalal, portrayed by Huma Qureshi. Directed by Piyush Gupta, the film explores Tarla Dalal's journey and legacy as an iconoclast during the early liberalisation period, empowering women through the art of cooking. The cast includes Sharib Hashmi and Veenah Naair.

Longevity Biohacking: The Ultimate Frontier - DocuBay (July 7)

This English language movie sheds light on the transformation of human life expectancy from the 1500s to the early 1900s, when it averaged around 35 years, to over 75 years in the early 2000s. The film delves into the world of biohacking, where scientists utilise science and technology to enhance the health-span and life-span of humanity, exploring the pursuit of the elixir of life.

Archie'r Gallery- Zee5 (July 7)

Archier Gallery' is a Bengali-language romantic drama written by Arnab Bhaumik and directed by Promita Bhattacharya. The story revolves around Archie, a person who has always had an old-fashioned approach to romance. When he develops feelings for his colleague, he realises that he needs to adapt to modern dating methods to win her over. The film features actors Rajatabha Dutta, Bonny Sengupta, and Ayoshi Talukdar in lead roles.

Zongo - DocuBay (July 8)

'Zongo' focuses on the challenges faced by Ghana's tribal communities, including poverty and belief in superstitions, which hinder their progress and well-being. The English language movie follows the inspiring story of a young tribesman who breaks the cycle of helplessness and victimisation, working towards empowering his rural community.

Also read: OTT releases this week: Bollywood releases, Malayalam series, John Wick 4 and much more

These exciting releases on various platforms offer a range of genres and themes to cater to diverse audience preferences.
In a path-breaking move in the field of global trading in India, the popular SGX Nifty will be re-branded as GIFT NIFTY from July 3 and all the derivative contracts worth $7.5 billion, earlier traded in Singapore, will shift to India.

The beginning of the operation of GIFT NIFTY will be a significant step in the shifting of the base Singapore Exchange to the NSE International Exchange (NSE IX) in Gandhinagar, Gujarat.

GIFT City is the new financial hub in Gujarat, which the government intends to develop as a competitor of other global financial centres like Dubai, Mauritius, and Singapore.

The recent move is set to come into effect after the resolution of a five-year-old feud between the National Stock Exchange of India Ltd came to an end. It holds special significance for India's trade market and Gujarat's GIFT city.

Importance of SGX Nifty transformation into GIFT Nifty for India?

-Four products of GIFT Nifty: The umbrella brand will include a total of four products, which are GIFT Nifty 50, GIFT Nifty Bank, GIFT Nifty Financial Services and GIFT Nifty IT derivative contracts.

-Watershed moment for India: MD and CEO of NSE International Exchange, V Balasubramaniam, called the move to be a watershed moment in the history of India," according to an Economic Times report. He said that for the first time, India will get an international contract which was earlier exported out of India.

-Major boost to GIFT City: GIFT City has emerged as India's first international financial centre. FEMA restrictions were removed by RBI from this zone in 2015. The transformation wil result With the shifting of derivative contracts due to SGX-Nifty tie up, Indian bourses revenue is also expected to rise in the current financial year. Nifty derivative contracts used to be a major contributor to SGX's revenue from higher average fees and volumes.

-SGX-NIFTY's 50-50 partnership: All the open positions in SGX Nifty are shifted to NSE IFSC Nifty as part of a liquidity switch, according to the SGX. As per the deal, SGX and NIfty will split costs and revenues roughly 50-50" Michael Syn, SGXs head of equities, said in an interview. Trading of futures and options will be held in the GIFT City and SGX will take care of clearing.

-21 hour trading: At present, SGX Nifty operates for 16 hours from 6:30 am IST till 10:30 pm IST. However, GIFT Nifty's operation time has been extended from 4 am IST to 2 am IST the following morning. After the transition on Monday, all US dollar-denominated Nifty derivatives contracts will be exclusively traded on NSE IFSC.

-GIFT Nifty to be the early indicator for markets: Earlier, SGX Nifty was seen as an early indicator for dictating the Indian market, which will change from July 3 onwards.

I am happy to say that the Indian equity markets every day were being led by the international prices because we all wake up in the morning because Singapore Nifty opens before us and they start setting up the price market and the tone for our Indian market," he told ET.

-Expansion of global investor reach: The NSE-SGX connect will help Indian markets to increase their reach among global investors, especially those who are not directly engaged with Indian capital markets.

There are many initiatives that are underway to see that global markets directly engage with the Indian capital markets through the international exchanges in GIFT IFSC. For example, we are looking at the potential of sponsored and unsponsored depository receipts of Indian stock," Injeti Srinivas, Chairman, International Financial Services Center Authority (IFSCA) told Indian Express.

BSE More Information
The larvae crawled in and out of his wound. Blood, pus, maggots and hopelessness infested the rotting flesh of 21-year-old James Fennis, who lay helpless in a hospital bed. The doctor stuck his hand in and pulled them out, said his mother, Cecilian Solomon. There were still doctors then, but we had to buy the medications, and I didnt have 5,000 gourdes [$30].

That was last November. The medical center where James still lies  the University Hospital of Haiti  is in what was the nicest part of Port-au-Prince, two blocks from the National Palace. Then, in late December, the doctors went on strike. They only asked for a little more pay and better working conditions.

Police at the police academy in the capital city guard the coffins of three colleagues who died in the line of duty. Odelyn Joseph (AP)

The doctors are still on strike, and James, admitted last August, still languishes in his hospital bed. His room is dark because the electricity was cut off. The hospital, like the doctors, has been forgotten. To try and keep the maggots at bay, Jamess mother cleans his injury with chlorine tablets that she grinds into powder and rubs into the wound. The last time she got him out of bed was on Christmas Eve when a Christian group came and helped wash him. Other than that, James never gets up.

James was shot, says Cecilian. She speaks for her son because he doesnt have the strength. He was walking down one of the streets that run from the surrounding hills to the downtown area when a bullet pierced his lower back. It shattered his spine and kidneys, says Cecilian. There is little else to say  just a stray bullet, a random event. These days, anything can happen in the capital of a country that is falling apart.

Haiti is struggling to survive. EL PAIS interviewed doctors, human rights activists, international organizations and victims of the violence plaguing Port-au-Prince, Haitis capital. No one can remember a worse time than the last six months, not even after the assassination of President Jovenel Moise in July 2021. The situation keeps getting worse and worse, says Benoit Vasseur, the local head of Medecins Sans Frontieres (MSF), which runs one of the largest networks of clinics and hospitals in Port-au-Prince. All the institutions are collapsing. The education system, the justice system  its a dying country.

Dozens of criminal gangs control much of the capital and the surrounding area, home to a quarter of the countrys 12 million people. The police force of 10,000 seems powerless to control them.

A masked and armed gang member in the Portail Leogane neighborhood of Port-au-Prince. Rodrigo Abd (AP)

In December 2022, the United Nations reported that gangs control 60% of Port-au-Prince. In other words, the city is in a de facto state of war. The evidence is everywhere. The countrys principal court of justice is a few blocks from the university hospital and the National Palace. Weeds have swarmed over the building, an unfinished monument to the independence bicentennial commissioned by former President Jean Bertrand Aristide. From below, it looks like the ruins of an abandoned cemetery. A hundred meters to the east is where the gangs hang out in the rubble of the cathedral destroyed in the 2010 earthquake that killed more than 200,000 people.

No one is allowed to approach gang territory without their permission. Various criminal groups control all the roads in and out of Port-au-Prince and have turned the city into a bunker. Its rare to get permission from anyone except Jimmy Barbecue Cherizier, one of the most famous gang leaders. Cherizier is a former policeman who likes to take journalists on tours of the shantytowns on the coast of Port-au-Prince. Usually, he takes them to Cite Soleil and talks about how hes not a murderer, just a local leader who wants to end corruption.

The tense, war-like environment becomes more noticeable in the densely populated areas leading down from the National Palace to the ruined cathedral, the entryway to the embattled Bel-Air neighborhood. Theres no one to be seen near the old church or the surrounding streets  just barricades of garbage, old tires and concrete blocks erected by the gangs. There are other gang bosses besides Barbecue, who people say got his nickname from his mother, a barbecue chicken street vendor: Vitelhomme, Gabriel Jean Pierre, Izo, Ti Makak and more.

Police patrol the streets of Port-au-Prince Odelyn Joseph (AP)

The gangs of Port-au-Prince

What matters most to the gangs is their firepower, as daunting as ever, and their business interests  mostly extortion and kidnapping these days. According to local NGOs that try to collect data on behalf of an absent government, there have been hundreds of kidnappings in the last two years. Sometimes its foreigners that get kidnapped for ransom, like the group of North American missionaries captured in late 2022, but mostly it is locals.

Located in the historic but tattered neighborhood of Pacot, the Hotel Oloffson is an apt symbol of the deterioration of Port-au-Prince. One of the jewels of Haitian gingerbread architecture, the hotel now looks like the sad shell of a ship adrift. For decades it was the favorite haunt of local bohemians and home to RAM, the voodoo rock band led by Haitian-American Richard Morse. RAM regularly played there, attracting droves of party-goers who came to dance and drink the night away.

The Hotel Oloffson now languishes in lonely silence. Nightlife is practically non-existent in the capital, especially in a neighborhood close to where the gangs fight daily for turf, transit routes and possibly even votes. Two mountains of garbage stand in front of the hotel, stark proof of the citys decay. Plumes of smoke and ash rise from trash burning in a dry riverbed nearby.

I started playing in the Oloffson in 1988, says Morse, who recently moved his family and band to New Orleans. I rented it because it was a good opportunity. We played our first show there on Christmas Eve 1990 and kept going until 2022. But at the end of last year, the situation became untenable. We had seven events canceled around the country in September and October, he said. We left in October.

Protestors swarm the streets of the Villa Petion area in Port-au-Prince. Odelyn Joseph (AP)

Haitis latest cycle of disaster started last September, when interim Prime Minister Ariel Henry, who has been running the country since Moises assassination, raised fuel prices by more than double. Long subsidized by Venezuela, Henrys price hike triggered a wave of protests that literally paralyzed the country.

Blocked by barricaded streets, water, food and fuel deliveries ground to a halt. Barbecue and his federation of gangs, known as the G9 Family and Allies, seized the port terminal where imported fuel is stored. Then, MSF detected a new cholera outbreak in late September, years after the last case was seen.

Open warfare between gangs raged all over the city  it was chaos. On October 5, Henry asked for international help in controlling the violence and the cholera outbreak. Nine days later, the United Nations issued an alert about the catastrophic famine affecting nearly five million people throughout the country.

Aerial view of the Jalousie neighborhood in Port-au-Prince. HECTOR RETAMAL (AFP)

In January, 14 policemen were murdered in the span of three weeks, unnerving a police force incapable of dealing with all the crime. A violent protest by current and former police officers paralyzed the area near the airport, forcing Henry to hole up in the terminal for hours after arriving from a trip to Argentina. Local media reported gunfire next to his home.

The situation has not improved. People take to the streets daily to sell what they have to survive, finding new ways to avoid the gangs. The severely crippled Henry government, rejected by much of the country, and constant crises make thinking about the future fruitless. Haiti is a shipwrecked country inhabited by desperate survivors forced to live one day at a time.

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Trading in futures & options (F&O) is indeed risky for retail investors, if data put out by the market regulator Securities and Exchange Board of India (Sebi) recently is anything to go by. A detailed analysis by Sebi showed that 90% of active individual traders in the F&O segment suffered losses in FY22. This figure was 87% in FY19.

The study highlights the growing interest of individual investors in the F&O segment ever since the pandemic struck in 2020. Millions of people confined to their houses amid the lockdowns and inspired by finfluencersflooded the stock markets in search of easy money, despite the inherent risks. Thus, a record 14.2 million new demat accounts were opened in FY21, three-times higher than the previous financial year. Most of them were by DIY (do it yourself) investors who wanted a piece of the F&O action.

F&O trading is a high-risk business and new investors, many of whom relied on online course subscriptions, suffered losses. Market experts say it is important to hire a good broker if you decide to dabble in the F&O segment. But, choosing the right broker is not an easy affair either. For one, there are a large number of brokers today offering competitive brokerage. Also, discount brokers alone used to hitherto offer flat brokerage, now even full-service brokers do that. Discount brokers are stockbrokers who carry out buy and sell orders at a reduced commission rate. Unlike full-service brokers, they do not provide personal consultations, financial advice, tax planning, or research and analysis.

Brokers today also offer a range of features such as option strategy, API (application programming interface) for trade automation, advanced option chain, etc. You need to look for brokers who can offer the best features for your trading requirements. Do take note of trading glitches in the software offered by brokers.

Mint speaks to some F&O traders for their insight on how they utilize the service of brokers.

View Full Image Mint

Discount brokers

Bengaluru-based Sandeep Rao, 43, a fintech executive, says he has had an account with brokerage firm Zerodha since 2011. Rao, who has been trading in the F&O segment through Zerodha for the last 10 years, loves the firms smooth UI (user interface) and access to the Zerodha ecosystem.

Another advantage with Zerodha is the MProfit tracking app which allows one to track investments across different assets and platforms. As Zerodha is one of the investors in MProfit, it is well-integrated into the system," he says. Rao says he is sticking with Zerodha for the reason that he has also built a sizeable investment portfolio with the broker over the years

Yet, Rao says there are a few things about Zerodha that he hates. For instance, the firm charges 2,000 per month for its API (application programming interface), which is usually used by traders for automation of their trading strategies. While Zerodhas API is reliable, most brokers today dont charge any additional fee for API," he says.

He cites the example of Dhan, which doesnt charge for the API. He uses Dhan occasionally as a back-up for trading. I like Dhan as it keeps adding innovative features after getting feedback from traders. But the software it uses will need to be optimized."

Rao says that he has faced some software glitches even on Zerodha, but fortunately he has not had to face any losses because of that.

Mumbai-based Viraj Batra, 24, has just started trading in the F&O segment. A financial services professional, Batra has opened an account with Upstox. He initially used the account for investments but started using it five months back for F&O trading.

Batra, who says he has so far not faced any major issue on the platform, is a fan of the low brokerage it charges and its user interface. To be sure, Upstox users have also faced software issues in the past.

Full-service brokers

Pune-based Tushar Karmakar, 27, has tried several brokers in the recent past. He started using Zerodha for F&O trading in 2020, but after some restrictions on trading in out of the money, or OTM, contracts (OTM contracts are those that are farthest from current index levels), he shifted to Upstox. When he faced issues with accessing the Upstox account for trading on Budget day, he moved to Fyers. He used the broker till October 2022 when he faced hurdles in placing orders from his account. He claims that there were delays of 5-7 seconds even for an order modification.

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Karmakar, who has since shifted his loyalties to Kotak Securities, says he is in awe of the Kotak Neo mobile app and uses it to key in most of his trading orders. I like their user interface, and the overall experience has been good. Also, I have taken zero brokerage plan in Kotak Securities," he says.

At Kotak Securities, investors below 30 years of age can opt for the Trade Free Youth Plan for an initial two years. They need to pay 499 for the first two years, which offers zero brokerage across segments. Traders also have to bear an annual account maintenance charge of 600. After two years, they are moved to the regular Trade Free Plan, which is open for all. Here, a flat fee of 20 is applicable per order in the F&O segment. Karmakar adds that he faced software glitches at Kotak Securities soon after opening his account (in December last year) but didnt suffer any losses.

Mumbai-based Tulika Mall, 32, is a full-time trader in the F&O segment for the last three years. She uses ICICI Directs platform to place her trades and is very happy with its low-brokerage fee. She has subscribed to both ICICI Directs Neo and Prime plans, and pays 20 per lot in brokerage.

As a full-service broker, she has access to the relationship manager (assigned to her due to multiple family accounts and large volumes) as and when required. She claims to have faced order lags in the brokers software, but doesnt mind it for now. A well-established financial services brand and a personal RM, just a call away, matters. We are trading with huge volumes of money. So, brand comfort is equally important for us," Mall says.

Mall says she goes through the brokerages research reports emailed to her for actionable insight if any stock piques her interest.

What to consider

Trading in F&Os is not suitable for everyone. It requires both large capital and deep understanding of how F&O pricing works.

Those looking for brokers to trade in the F&O segment should check for reports of frequent glitches in the software used by the broker. It is not uncommon for such glitches to occur especially on big event days (such as during the Union budget, elections) when market trading volumes are high. If you cant exit a position with your primary broker at the right time due to a software issue, it can turn your profits into losses or limit your ability to minimize losses on an already loss-making position.

Having a secondary broker might be useful as well. For example, you can place a counter trade with the secondary broker to hedge against the position on your primary broker.
Today's Doodle has paid tribute to Amancay Diana Sacayan, an Indigenous Argentine human rights activist. On this day in 2012, Sacayan made history as the first Argentine trans woman to receive a national identity card affirming her gender.

The artwork, illustrated by guest artist Juan Dellacha from Buenos Aires, portrays Sacayan as a joyful activist whose enduring spirit, despite the violence she faced throughout her life, left a lasting legacy.

Born on December 31, 1975, in Tucuman, Argentina, Sacayan was a proud descendant of the Diaguita people. She relocated to Buenos Aires with her 15 siblings, where she spent majority of her life. Sacayan's journey was marked by challenges as she faced expulsion from school upon coming out as transgender. She experienced frequent persecution and arrests by the police for expressing her gender identity through her choice of clothing.

Also read: Google Doodle celebrates Dragon Boat Festival. Here's all you to know

Throughout her life, Sacayan fought tirelessly for LGBTQ+ rights. She actively participated in various activist groups and was a member of the National Front for the Gender Identity Law and a leader in the International Lesbian, Gay, and Bisexual Association.

She founded the Anti-Discriminatory Liberation Movement (Movimiento Antidiscriminatorio de Liberacion), dedicated to advancing human rights for the queer community and fostering inclusion in schools, workplaces, and hospitals. Thanks to her advocacy, trans individuals can now have their names and genders respected when accessing healthcare.

Also read: Google Doodle celebrates the 93rd birthday of Polish sculptor Magdalena Abakanowicz

Sacayan's efforts also led to the implementation of the Trans Labor Quota Law, which ensured that 1% of public sector employees in Buenos Aires are from the trans community. Although she did not live to see it, this law was expanded nationally in 2020.

Tragically, Sacayan was the victim of a hate crime in 2015, and her murderer became the first person in Argentina to be convicted of a hate crime against the trans community.

Her resilience and achievements continue to inspire others. Sacayan successfully advocated for the inclusion of trans individuals in the public sector, fought for the use of correct names in hospitals, and set an example as the first legally recognised trans person in her country.

Google Doodle showcasing Juan Dellacha illustration of Amancay Diana Sacayan is visible for Google users of Argentina and Mexico.
Ernakulam: On 13 May, B.A. Aloor, a lawyer in Kochi known to defend those accused of murder, rape, and drug trafficking charges, received a call to bail out Zubair Derakhshandeh.

In his 40s, Derakhshandeh is from Balochistan, bordering Iran and Afghanistan. And he is a suspected accomplice in an international drug trafficking network run by Pakistan-based gangster Haji Salim. Earlier in the day, he was the only one found on an Iranian ship that Indias anti-narcotics investigators searched, off Keralas Kochi coast.

The investigators unearthed 132 sealed bagswhite, orange, pink, and green in colour. Some jute bags, from two Pakistani rice companies, were kept alongside. All of this looked like normal cargo. Except that they werent.

The bags packed over 2,500 kg of white crystals, or Methamphetamine, a highly-addictive synthetic drug. Estimated at 25,000 crore, it turned out to be one of Indias largest drug seizures to date.

Aloor appeared for Derakhshandehs bail but the plea was rejected by the Ernakulam district court. Mint could not verify if Aloor was contacted by a cartel, or he volunteered himself. Nonetheless, he continues to be in great demand, representing people accused of drug trafficking in southern towns like Kochi and Chennai. Those who entrust us with such cases are always concerned that their cover will be blown. They will keep changing lawyers," Aloor said.

The arrest of Derakhshandeh and all the effort to get him out, underlines a complex network operating in the shadows. In the past, drug-related cases and violence have plagued several northern states including Delhi, Punjab, and Uttar Pradesh. Now, a series of drug busts have led authorities to wonder if south India is becoming a major transit point for drugs originating in the Death Crescentdrugs grown in Afghanistan, shipped in massive Iranian vessels, and smuggled out of Pakistanto major transport hubs such as Sri Lanka and the Maldives.

Drug busts are now common not only in the port cities of Kochi and Chennai but even in tiny fishing jetties, like Thoothukudi and Rameswaram in Tamil Nadu. In September 2021, a prominent Tamilian YouTuber, known for his fishing skills and cooking videos, was held. Customs agents reportedly confiscated 150 kg of ganja (cannabis) from his boat near the port of Nagapattinam.

In December last year, the media reported on Mohamed Imran, a Sri Lankan drug kingpin, who is believed to have slipped into Rameswaram, days after his release on bail by a court in Sri Lanka.

Such incidents tell us that the South is not just a transit point. A network of couriers and suppliers actively market the drugs in metros such as Bengaluru and Hyderabad. The modus operandi spans from usage of the darknet to, hold your breath, contact-less delivery! Some fishermen and influencers have turned part-time drug lords, escalating the competition between law enforcement and bigger traffickers trying to control the international routes as well as local consumption markets.

Sea and land

A top anti-drug investigator, stationed in Kochi, who did not want to be identified, said that in the past, he used to catch a fishermans boat or a flight travellers baggage that carried synthetic drugs. The weight of these seizures never crossed a kilo. Things have changed more recently.

Once, he followed a large ship in a small coastguard vessel, climbed over its rails in the high seas and seized packages labelled with symbols like 999 and unicorn inscriptionsbrand trademarks of Haji Salims cargo.

According to the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB)s records obtained by Mint, the total weight of synthetic drugs seized by the agency in Kochi, in 2019, was just 2.491 kg. Compare this to the drug haul made on 13 Maythe ship carried 2,525.675 kg of Methamphetamine. The NCB is Indias drug law enforcement agency.

This also fits into a pattern of large seizures. The ship was the fourth such capture of a cargo originating in Pakistan or Afghanistan recently caught near Kerala seas. On 25 March 2021, the NCB confiscated 300 kg of heroin off the coast of Thiruvananthapuram, near the upcoming Vizhinjan port. Another 337 kilograms were seized in Kochi a month later. On 6 March, they seized 199 kg heroin, 15 gm hashish oil, and 400 gm opium near Kochi.

The network, the syndicate, is definitely bigger than we could imagine," said P. Aravindhan, the NCBs Chennai zone chairman. He also heads the Kerala and Karnataka areas. He emphasizes this as a troubling trend: southern Indias coastline districts have become major transit routes for narcotics smuggling.

When it comes to trafficking by Sri Lanka-based syndicates, they find the usage of these ports easier," Aravindhan said. Not only the sea route, even via land routes," he added.

The NCB has noticed a pattern in the land routedrug consignments find their way to Kolkata from Myanmar and then travel to Chennai and Madurai. Next, the consignments are sent to Rameswaram before being finally smuggled into Sri Lanka.

The final journey to Sri Lanka may not involve a ship or a port. Instead, the traffickers use smaller vessels, luring fishermen or locals with money.

But then, some seizures can completely bring forth a new trend.

A month after the Kochi seizure made national headlines, a truck was seized on the Nellore-Chennai highway near Sullurupeta in Andhra Pradesh. It contained 240 kg of ganja. Eight people who worked for a big ganja distributor in Chennai were allegedly trafficking it to a Sri Lankan national. The men were promised payment in gold instead of cash. The police believe such rewards are a new trend.

Too long, too few

Rishiraj Singh retired as Keralas director general of police of prisons but he had made headlines earlier in a different roleas the former excise commissioner, he was known for surprise raids. This year, he published a book, Before Its Too Late, which warns of rising stress and drug abuse among young people. Contrary to popular belief, he believes it is far easier to transport drugs into and out of southern India.

Kerala alone has a 600-km-long coastline. You could see people going in their fishing sails, exchanging something with ships, and returning," he said. It cannot be halted because the investigators are severely underfunded," he added.

According to Singh, the coastguard has only one ship to patrol between Kochi and 200 km south of Thiruvananthapuram. The NCB in Kochi, on the other hand, does not have any ship and must rely on the coastguard and the Indian Navy for searches and seizures.

At the state level in Kerala, at least four agencies are involved, and none of them can provide payment for informants (because it isnt legal), limiting their efficiency, Singh informed. These agencies are the excise, the railway police, the coastal security group and the police force.

The excise departments, with the exception of Kerala, are also not permitted to make arrests under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, the strongest legislation available to prosecute such crimes.

Nonetheless, the NCB is the only central agency that has made significant arrests. Despite its sensitive work, it is severely understaffed. In Kochi, for example, its team consists of roughly six senior officers who do not even have a full-fledged office.

Ecstasy and pain

Lets circle back to domestic consumption where cartels have targeted cities that are wealthy.

A top-ranking intelligence officer in Kerala, who asked not to be identified, said the cops are closing in on a trafficker who has shifted from the illicit alcohol trade to narcotics. But tracking him down is quite a taskhe refrains from using cellphones. We were surprised to learn that one of his close associates is a nursing professional in Bengaluru with A+ grades in all subjects in Class XI," the officer said. Having such associates in the city helps. The wealthy in Bengaluru can afford narcotics like Methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA), popularly known as ecstasy. It reportedly costs upwards of 500 per gram.

Perhaps no one sees the threat as clearly as B Dayananda, the police commissioner of Bengaluru. According to him, a record number of synthetic drugs were confiscated last year, worth almost 30 crore. But the worst came this year. The hoard seized till March 2023 grew to over 90 crore, totalling about 4,000 kgpredominantly marijuana but also MDMA. By June, the hoard grew again by another 2,000 kg. The pile was destroyed by the cops.

Dayananda, who took over as the commissioner in May, links the increase in drug trafficking to the use of the darknet, which is a popular route for drug ordering. The darknet is an encrypted portion of the internet that is not indexed by search engines. It can be accessed using specific software and authorization.

The covid-19 lockdowns have inadvertently provided individuals with easy access to online platforms, facilitating drug transactions from the comfort of their homes," he said.

Dayananda acknowledges the complexity the police face in their effort to nab the traffickers. Contactless deliveries are offered. Once the order is placed through the darknet, they (peddlers) will tie it (a pouch containing the drug) up behind an electric pole or so, and send you the coordinates. Its impossible to catch or track such supply chains," he said.

This supply-chain, oddly, even involves public services.

Courier services such as India Post or the private ones are supposed to have security cameras in their surroundings to verify the senders identity before accepting the purchase. However, this is not always the case," said the anti-narcotics investigator mentioned above. There are incidents where drugs arrived in Kochi by sea and ended up in Gurugram through post," he added.

At the bottom of the supply food chain are the street peddlersthey are also the ones most likely to be arrested. According to officials, several cases involving peddlers arrested in the south frequently lead back to Bengaluru.

According to Dayananda, drug networks use a lot of naive, poor African nationals as peddlers who dont even know the value of the contraband they carry. Over the previous four years, Bengaluru has deported at least 100 African nationals suspected of being drug peddlers, he informed.

The missing ganja

Aravindhan of the NCB, meanwhile, pointed to something both interesting and concerning. Pre-pandemic, the agency had seized about 2,000-3,000 kgs of ganja in the south. Post-pandemic, the amount seized is down by more than half. Where have all the ganja gone?

Turns out, there is a shift in supply and consumptionfrom plant-based drugs like ganja, which are predominantly grown and processed in India, to synthetic drugs, which come from abroad.

State governments are now realizing that combating narcotics requires not just addressing the supply side but also the demand side. Every state government in the south now has initiatives that address the problem. Kerala, for instance, has at least one de-addiction facility in each districtthe majority of them opened in the last five years.

While maritime reasons may have helped the advent of narcotics trafficking in the south, it spread because of the regions affluence. Drug traffickers see the south as an emerging market," Aravindhan said.

Indias law enforcement agencies, therefore, have a long and tiring battle on their hands.
France has given the green signal to defence major Safran to jointly design, develop, test, manufacture, and finally certify an engine with India that will empower twin-engine advanced multi-role combat aircraft (AMCA) and the twin-engine deck-based fighter for Indian aircraft carriers. According to a report by the Hindustan Times, while the Centre is tight-lipped about the deal but officials have confirmed about the 100% transfer of technology offered by Safran.

Recently, DRDO chief Dr Samir V Kamat paid a special visit to the Safran engine factory and the R&D centre near Paris on the sidelines of the Paris Air Show 2023. The engine proposal has been under discussion between the defence minister and NSA-led strategic dialogue with France.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to visit France on 13 July to attend the Bastille Day celebrations. He is expected to hold bilateral talks with President Emmanuel Macron on July 13. The Indian Air Forces Rafale fighter will be participating in the Bastille Day fly-past on July 14.

According to the HT report, the French offers include a completely new engine, new materials, new architecture, with full supply chains, and ancillary manufacturing based in India. Besides, the offer also includes Safran setting up a centre of excellence in gas turbine technology in India with full design and metallurgical precision software tools.

The French offer is synchronised with Safrans facility coming up in Hyderabad to maintain repair and overhaul (MRO) LEAP engines for the A320 and Boeing 737 aircraft. The French company is already working on a 125 KN engine for the next-generation fighter jet.

Safran engines power the helicopters made by HAL and the two companies are reported to have agreed to jointly develop the engine for Indian multi-role helicopters.

Last week US-based GE Aerospace signed a memorandum of understanding with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited to produce fighter jet engines for the Indian Air Force during PM Narendra Modi's visit to the States.

As per the new agreement, Aerospace's F414 engines will be co-produced in India to power the Tejas Light Combat Aircraft Mk2.
Jitendra Awhad, newly-appointed Opposition leader in Maharashtra Assembly, Sunday said the actual number of MLAs with defected leader Ajit Pawar will be clear once Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) chief Sharad Pawar starts "calling up" legislators.

Jitendra Awhad was appointed Leader of Opposition (LoP) in the Maharashtra Assembly after incumbent LoP Ajit Pawar defected from NCP joined the Eknath Shinde government as deputy chief minister today. Awhad further said the families of several MLAs have called party leaders to voice their opposition to the developments of the day.

A close aide of Ajit Pawar said 36 out of 53 NCP MLAs have extended support to the new deputy CM and the numbers could go to 46 in a few days time, news agency PTI reported.

When Awhad was questioned about such claims by the defected MLAs, he said, "Wait till Sharad Pawar gets active fully, once he starts dialling numbers of his MLAs."

Lashing out at State chief minister Eknath Shinde, the Opposition leader said the former had routinely criticised Ajit Pawar's role in the Maha Vikas Aghadi dispensation but was joining hands with him now.

"Shinde revolted by complaining Ajit Pawar as finance minister did not give Sena MLAs enough funds (under MVA rule). Now, Shinde is shaking hands with Ajit Pawar. People know what exactly is happening here," Awhad said.

Awhad had earlier said NCP state unit president Jayant Patil had appointed him chief whip of the party and LoP in the Assembly.

"All the MLAs will have to abide my whip," he asserted in an apparent reference to defection and disqualification angles that are bound to come up in connection with Sunday's developments brought about by a vertical split in the NCP, the PTI reported.

When Awhad was queried if the cases by Enforcement Directorate and Central Bureau of Investigation against the NCP leaders played a role in switching sides, the LoP said, "I don't see any other reason behind these leaders deciding to join the state government. There was no need to do such a thing. Those leaders could have sat aside."

"These leaders should not forget the party made them ministers in the past 25 years. Now, they are deserting their leader in his twilight years," Awhad said.
Over the past few months, debate on calls to bring in a censorship system into the OTT space has gained momentum with several celebrities opposing it. Actor Suniel Shetty is not in favor of the idea to introduce a censorship system on OTT platforms .

It is a touch to ascertain what to censor and what to leave," Suniel Shetty said as quoted by Hindustan Times.

He believes that there is a very thin line in everything in today's world. The actor, who is exploring the OTT platforms in his shows Dharavi Bank and Hunter - Tootega Nahi, Todega, said that it's not fair if someone is taking advantage of no censorship system in the web space to sell junk.

According to Suniel Shetty, the restrictions in the OTT space should be there when it comes to the age and content of the shows.

In case, if a show is causing harm to any religion, group of individuals, or anything, then it's not fair. One needs to be morally responsible in such cases. I don't think that only evil sells or good doesn't sell," he said as quoted by HT.

He further said that every decade has its own bunch of problems and also, censorship is a very difficult process. Hence, producers, actors, and creators have to be conscious about what they are producing, Suniel Shetty said.

On the other hand, Bollywood actor Salman Khan earlier this year voiced his opinion about OTT content and he supported censorship over the streaming platforms.

I really think there should be censorship over the medium...All these... vulgarity, nudity, gaali galauch (swearing) should stop. Kids as young as 15 or 16 years old can watch them all. Would you like it if your young daughter watches it? I just think the content on OTT should be checked. Jitna clean hoga content, utna behtar hoga, viewership uski zyada hogi," the actor said.

Some big names like Shahid Kapoor, Priyanka Chopra, Saif Ali Khan, and Manoj Bajpayee have already stepped into the world of digital.
Tomato prices have shot up since the beginning of June by an average of 85-90%. In a number of cities, prices have doubled or tripled. Prices in Gorakhpur in Uttar Pradesh crossed 120 per kg. In Ahmedabad, prices rose from an average of 22 per kg on 1 June to 80 per kg on 27 Junean increase of 264%, the most among large cities. In Delhi, prices rose from similar levels to around 60. Among the large cities, Hyderabad has so far seen the least increase in prices over the course of June, by 23%.

As a Mint article pointed out last week, a primary culprit for the surge in tomato prices has been crop damage caused by a mix of unusually hot weather in the main growing areas such as Karnataka, along with incessant rain. In mandis in Maharashtra, till a few weeks ago, farmers were dumping tomatoes because of extremely low prices. Since then, there has been a dramatic turnaround.

In June, according to government data, the average price of tomatoes across 518 centres increased from 25 per kg to 57 per kg. However, the rise in prices has to be seen in perspective. As high as prices have gone, they are still lower than what prevailed in 2022 at the same time of the year. In fact, daily average prices at the start of June were almost half of what prevailed last year. But as prices have surged, the year-on-year gap has narrowed significantly in recent days to less than 10%.

Fewer arrivals

An important reason for the spike in prices has been a fall in arrivalsthe quantity of tomato produce that farmers bring to mandis (wholesale markets) across the country. Daily mandi arrivals of tomatoes have fallen from an average of about 12,500-13,000 tonnes in mid-June to about 9,300 tonnes in end-June.

Again, however, arrivals in June (till 28 June) were significantly higher than what came into mandis in the corresponding period of 2022, shows government data. Between 1 June and 28 June, a total of 346,100 tonnes of tomatoes came into mandis across India. By comparison, in the corresponding period of 2022, farmers brought around 290,000 tonnes of tomatoes to mandis. The difference is in the trend. Last year, daily mandi arrivals of tomatoes in early-June were around 6,000 tonnes, and started gathering pace later to cross 14,000 tonnes by the end of the month.

State stress

This June, mandis in just six states accounted for close to three-quarters of tomato arrivals across India. The three biggest states were Karnataka (18% of all-India tomato arrivals), Maharashtra (16%) and Andhra Pradesh (15%). Each of these three states saw a dip in tomato arrivals in their mandis, though of varying degrees.

Daily average arrivals between 20 June and 29 June fell by as much as 46-47%, as compared to the earlier days in the month, in Maharashtra and Uttar Pradesh (which accounted for 12% of mandi arrivals in June). These two states accounted for a bulk of the fall in mandi arrivals in the latter part of June. Their shortfall was made up only partly by an increase in daily average arrivals in Karnataka towards the end of June. Other states that saw declines in daily average arrivals during 20-29 June, compared with 1-9 June, included Andhra Pradesh (-11%), Gujarat (-28%), and Telangana (-39%).

Longer-term Picture

Seen in a longer-term perspective of monthly averages over two years, the latest spike looks far less extreme. In November 2021, June 2022 and October 2022, tomato prices rose far more. In November 2021, the all-India monthly average price rose to 58 per kg, whereas the current average price is 32 per kg.

For Delhi, average prices then were 63 per kg, compared with around 31 per kg for June as a whole. Cities such as Bengaluru, Kolkata and Chennai also saw their highest tomato prices over that period. At that time, weak rains in Maharashtra and Gujarat had caused prices of tomatoes to skyrocket. Mumbais monthly average price peaked in June 2022, at 72 per kga time when shortages were caused by crop failures in the south. As and when arrivals increase, the expectation is prices will cool down.

www.howindialives.com is a database and search engine for public data
China is actively engaging in a significant natural gas acquisition campaign, and government officials are encouraging importers to continue striking deals even as the global energy crisis subsides.

have expressed their support for state-owned buyers to secure long-term contracts and invest in export facilities, aiming to enhance energy security until the middle of the century.

Based on discussions with individuals who have met with Chinese officials, it is evident that the government is committed to bolstering its natural gas reserves. In 2023, China is poised to become the world's leading importer of liquefied natural gas (LNG). Furthermore, Chinese companies have, for the third consecutive year, committed to purchasing more LNG on a long-term basis than any other nation, as reported by Bloomberg News.

To mitigate the risk of future energy shortages and sustain economic growth, China is taking a forward-looking approach. By focusing on long-term LNG contracts, the country aims to ensure a stable and predictable supply of natural gas. Compared to the volatile spot market, where prices spiked dramatically following Russia's invasion of Ukraine, long-term contracts offer the advantage of securing shipments at relatively steady prices.

Energy security has always been a priority for China," said Toby Copson, global head of trading and advisory at Trident LNG in Shanghai. Having ample supply in their portfolio allows them to manage future volatility. I would expect to see more."

China's ongoing efforts to strike long-term natural gas contracts will not only benefit its own energy security but also support global export projects and strengthen the role of liquefied natural gas (LNG) in the global energy mix. As suppliers actively seek to attract Chinese importers, Beijing's influence in the market is expected to grow.

The Chinese government initiated its pursuit of long-term contracts in 2021, coinciding with improved relations with the United States. Although Chinese LNG imports experienced a decline last year due to reduced demand caused by Covid-19 restrictions, Chinese buyers renewed their efforts after the invasion of Ukraine disrupted pipeline gas supplies to Europe. This event served as a catalyst for China to further diversify its natural gas sources and strengthen its LNG imports through long-term agreements, thereby ensuring a more reliable energy supply.

In addition to China, other importers such as India are also actively seeking to secure more long-term LNG contracts to mitigate future shortages and reduce dependence on spot deliveries.

However, China has been particularly swift in finalizing these agreements. Bloomberg calculations indicate that China has accounted for 33% of the total long-term LNG volumes signed so far this year, indicating its accelerated pace in securing these contracts compared to other countries.

Recently, China National Petroleum Corp. (CNPC), a state-owned company, finalized a 27-year agreement with Qatar and also acquired a stake in Qatar's large-scale expansion project. Additionally, ENN Energy Holdings Ltd., another Chinese company, entered into a long-term contract with US developer Cheniere Energy Inc. Both agreements involve significant durations spanning multiple decades. The supplies from these contracts are scheduled to commence as early as 2026.

More deals are in the offing as negotiations span boardrooms from Singapore to Houston. State-owned giants including Cnooc Ltd. and Sinopec are in discussions with the US, while smaller firms such as Zhejiang Provincial Energy Group Co. and Beijing Gas Group Co. are also searching for deals, according to traders. Qatar is in talks with several Chinese buyers for sales contracts that could last more than 20 years, the traders said.

The deals will help feed the roughly dozen new import terminals that are slated to start construction across Chinas coastal cities in this decade. The nations LNG imports could rise to as high as 138 million tons by 2033, about double current levels, according to Norwegian consultant Rystad Energy.

Currently, over half of Chinas LNG demand from 2030 to 2050 remains uncontracted," said Xi Nan, a Rystad analyst.

The government isnt forcing companies to sign deals, and traders will only ink agreements that have attractive prices, the traders said. Chinese buyers are also using the new LNG contracts to expand portfolios and unlock lucrative trading opportunities.

The bullish demand outlook isnt certain, however, especially as China boosts gas production at home, while overland shipments from Russia could rise if new pipelines are constructed. An excess of supply increases the risk that LNG import terminals are likely to sit idle more frequently, Cnooc senior analyst Xie Xuguang warned last month.

Nevertheless, power outages and shortages over the last few years have changed the thinking of Chinas policymakers, who now favor energy security over fuel importers facing a possible oversupply, according to traders who are briefed on the governments strategy.

China experienced electricity curtailments and a slowdown in economic growth due to a shortage of coal, which is the country's primary fuel for power generation. In response to this challenge, China made a commitment to enhance its coal mining capacity, resulting in record-level production and well-stocked storage sites, thus reducing the need for coal imports.

Now, policymakers in Beijing are adopting a similar approach for natural gas. They are urging energy giants to increase domestic gas production by reducing drilling costs, aiming to enhance self-sufficiency in gas supply. By promoting higher gas production within the country, China seeks to mitigate the risk of gas shortages and ensure a more secure and reliable energy supply. These efforts align with China's broader strategy of reducing dependence on imports and strengthening its energy self-sufficiency.

Given that new pipelines are being discussed but have yet to be finalized, Chinese buyers are still looking to secure supplies" from the LNG market, said Michal Meidan, head of China Energy Research at the Oxford Institute for Energy Studies.

Plus, the more deals China signs, the more control the nation has over global LNG supply. China is already playing a key role in balancing the market, reselling its contracted shipment to the neediest buyers when demand at home is weak, with that trend set to expand as the new deals start this decade.

Larger and more established buyers typically possess greater negotiation power compared to smaller or emerging players," said Rystads Xi. Continuing to sign long-term contracts is a logical decision."
The coastlines of Southern California are witnessing a distressing scene as numerous sea lions and dolphins have been discovered either deceased or unwell, displaying abnormal behaviour.

Recent reports from CNN reveal that authorities have received over 1,000 calls in the past few weeks regarding sick, dying, and dead marine mammals found washed ashore from Santa Barbara to San Diego County. This disconcerting situation is believed to be linked to a pervasive toxic algal bloom proliferating in the coastal waters.

According to Justin Greenman, a stranding coordinator with NOAA Fisheries, the number of deceased or ailing animals is one of the largest seen in memory and is overwhelming for experts. Regrettably, there seems to be no immediate end in sight to this distressing occurrence.

Greenman told CNN that the wave of dead or sick animals is "one of the largest in memory". "It's completely overwhelming," he said.

Scientists specialising in marine life have identified the harmful algal bloom as the probable cause, although they are awaiting test results to confirm this hypothesis.

The alga responsible, known as Pseudo-Nietzsche, produces a neurotoxin called domoic acid. This toxin can be detrimental to seabirds and fish upon ingestion, subsequently working its way up the food chain to affect larger marine creatures like dolphins, sea lions, and, potentially, humans.

While seafood is carefully tested to prevent contamination, humans can still fall ill if they consume food tainted with domoic acid. In light of this, the California Department of Health issued a specific warning against consuming "sport-harvested mussels, clams, or scallops from Santa Barbara County" due to elevated toxin levels.

The Channel Islands Marine and Wildlife Institute, led by co-founder and managing director Ruth Dover, has been actively responding to the crisis. They have encountered more than 100 deceased sea lions and 300 live sea lions displaying symptoms of domoic acid ingestion in Santa Barbara and Ventura counties.

In a similarly-distressing turn, the death toll for dolphins has now reached 100, an unusually high number. Greenman remarked on the extraordinary aspect of this algal bloom affecting species that typically inhabit more distant waters, ANI reported.

The situation remains concerning as experts continue to monitor and investigate the extent of the toxic algal bloom and its impact on marine life in Southern California. Efforts are underway to better understand and mitigate this unfortunate phenomenon, ensuring the safety and well-being of both wildlife and humans in the region.

(With ANI inputs)
Europe's Euclid space telescope was launched on Saturday, embarking on a groundbreaking mission to unravel the enigmatic nature of dark energy and dark matter in the universe.

As reported by AFP, the European Space Agency's (ESA) Director General, Josef Aschbacher, expressed his excitement and anticipation for the mission's success. The telescope was successfully launched from Cape Canaveral, Florida, aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket at 11:12 am local time (1512 GMT). Following separation from the rocket, Euclid promptly transmitted its first signal according to the planned schedule.

Due to Russia's decision to halt the use of Soyuz rockets in response to sanctions related to the conflict in Ukraine, the European Space Agency (ESA) had to rely on Elon Musk's SpaceX to carry out the launch of the Euclid mission.

As reported by AFP, Carole Mundell, the science director of ESA, expressed satisfaction with the flawless launch and emphasized the beginning of Euclid's remarkable journey. Euclid will spend approximately one month traveling through space before reaching its designated position known as the second Lagrange Point, situated at a stable hovering spot around 1.5 million kilometers (over 930,000 miles) from Earth. It will join the James Webb telescope at this location.

From there, Euclid will chart the largest-ever map of the universe, encompassing up to two billion galaxies across more than a third of the sky. By capturing light that has taken 10 billion years to reach Earth's vicinity, the map will also offer a new view of the 13.8-billion-year-old universe's history.

"We will unravel the mysteries of the Dark Universe," Mundell said.

Scientists hope to use information gathered by Euclid to address what project manager Giuseppe Racca calls a "cosmic embarrassment": that 95 percent of the universe remains unknown to humanity. Around 70 percent is thought to be made of dark energy, the name given to the unknown force that is causing the universe to expand at an accelerated rate.

And 25 percent is dark matter, thought to bind the universe together and make up around 80 percent of its mass. "Ever since we could see stars we've wondered, is the universe infinite? What is it made out of? How does it work?" NASA Euclid project scientist Michael Seiffert told AFP.

It's just absolutely amazing that we can take data and actually start to make even a little bit of progress on some of these questions."

Euclid consortium member Guadalupe Canas told a press conference ahead of the launch that the space telescope was a "dark detective" which can reveal more about both elements. Euclid, which is 4.7 meters (15 feet) tall and 3.5 meters wide, will use two scientific instruments to map the sky.

Its visible light camera will let it measure the shape of galaxies, while its near-infrared spectrometer and photometer will allow it to measure how far away they are.

So how will Euclid try to spot things that cannot be seen? By searching for their absence.

The light coming from billions of light years away is slightly distorted by the mass of visible and dark matter along the way, a phenomenon known as weak gravitational lensing.

"By subtracting the visible matter, we can calculate the presence of the dark matter which is inbetween," Racca told AFP.

While this may not reveal the true nature of dark matter, scientists hope it will throw up new clues that will help track it down in the future.

As for dark energy, French astrophysicist David Elbaz compared the expansion of the universe to blowing up a balloon with lines drawn on it.

By "seeing how fast it inflates," scientists hope to measure the breath -- or dark energy -- making it expand.

A major difference between Euclid and other space telescopes is its wide field of view, which takes in an area equivalent to two full moons.

Project scientist Rene Laureijs said that this wider view means Euclid will be able to "surf the sky and find exotic objects," like black holes, that the Webb telescope can then investigate in greater detail.

Beyond dark energy and matter, Euclid's map of the universe is expected to be a "gold mine for the whole field of astronomy," said Yannick Mellier, head of the Euclid consortium.

Scientists hope Euclid's data will help them learn more about the evolution of galaxies, black holes and more.

"We are trying to determine something that escapes us enormously: dark matter, dark energy," Marc Sauvage, a member of the Euclid consortium, told AFP.

The first images are expected once scientific operations start in October, with major data releases planned for 2025, 2027 and 2030.

The 1.4 billion euro ($1.5 billion) mission is intended to run until 2029, but could last a little longer if all goes well. Over the next few years, NASA also plans to launch the Nancy Grace Roman space telescope, its own project to study dark matter and dark energy.
For thousands of years, human beings respected the darkness and silence that lies up to 21,325 feet at the bottom of the ocean. However, technology has made possible what was once science fiction, allowing humans to now extract essential minerals for the green transition  minerals for wind turbines, mobile phones and electric batteries  from the depths. The possible benefits are colossal as is the damage to the environment.

This contentious present begins in the past. In 1994, the United Nations created the International Seabed Authority (ISA) to ensure that minerals extracted from international waters would benefit humanity. Its decisions are made by a rotating council of 36 members, representing the 167 countries that have ratified the Law of the Sea. The United States participates as an observer. This body of international law requires that any company that wants to explore deep sea mining must pay the ISA around $500,000 for a license and be supported by a member country that will ensure that the firm complies with environmental regulations. Since 2001, government agencies and private companies have extracted minerals from more than 500,000 square miles in the Indian, Pacific and Atlantic oceans. But recent investigations by The Los Angeles Times and The New York Times reveal the close relationship that the ISA secretariat maintains with certain mining firms, along with the pressure exerted on some weaker nations to gain support for deep sea mining operations.

The regulation is so outdated that mining companies have found a big loophole. In June of 2021, Nauru  a tiny Pacific island  warned that the UN treaty requires the ISA to complete negotiations in two years. Otherwise, come July, they have the right to exploit their waters minerals: something that has previously been prohibited.

The Republic of Nauru has endorsed the operations of The Metals Company (TMC), a Canadian start-up. While the regulator will be accepting applications shortly, this doesnt mean that our subsidiary, Norin, will begin to operate, TMC notes in a statement. Together with Nauru, we have committed to submit a commercial contract application only after completing a thorough and scientific environmental and social impact assessment of the highest quality. However, if they obtain the license, they could start extracting minerals by the end of next year, or the start of 2025. The New York Times estimates that, in two decades, they can rake in revenues of $30 billion from 240 million tons of material.

The situation is muddied by too much pressure, too much money and too many geopolitical interests. TMC has three exploratory contracts but China has five, the largest amount around the island. Beijing doesnt want to lose its lead in amassing critical minerals. Its diplomats argue that environmental concerns should never underestimate the economic benefits of mining. This opinion is shared by Belgium, France, the United Kingdom, Germany, India, South Korea, Russia and Singapore, who have around 30 exploration agreements approved by the ISA. We need those minerals. But we must make sure that we dont harm nature, says Michael Widmer, a metals strategist at Bank of America.

In a surprise move, American defense giant Lockheed Martin recently sold its deep sea mining subsidiary  UK Seabed Resources  to the Norwegian firm Loke Marine Minerals. In turn, the shipping company Maersk is leaving the industry. Companies such as Samsung, BMW, Google, Renault, Volvo and Philips are asking for a moratorium to fully understand the environmental consequences of bolstering deep sea mining. This request is supported, above all, by the governments of Chile, Costa Rica, Ecuador, New Zealand and Spain. France, meanwhile, is demanding an absolute ban on deep sea mining.

Extractive activity is safe and our technology guarantees minimal environmental impact, emphasizes Walter Sognnes, the CEO of Loke Marine Minerals, in a defense of his firm. British lawyer Michael Lodge, the ISAs secretary general, has warned that a moratorium is against international law.

Where the light never reaches

Down below  where the light never reaches  these miners are after polymetallic nodules. The mineral clumps are covered with sand, at a depth of between 13,000 and 21,325 feet. The largest reserves run between Mexico and Hawaii; they contain manganese, copper, cobalt, nickel and traces of rare earth elements.

Harvesting the nodules requires much less energy than the traditional method [of mainland mining]. Since the concentration of metals is much higher, refinement is also easier, says Seaver Wang, co-director of the Energy and Climate Program at the Breakthrough Institute in California. Wang has no doubt that, if one company succeeds in such an endeavor, others will follow. In July, its unlikely that the regulations will be approved. Without them, no company will exploit minerals, although tons have already been removed durings tests, says Sian Owen, director of the Deep Sea Conservation Coalition (DSCC). For instance, the Canadian firm collected 4,500 tons in tests from the waters around Nauru in 2022 alone. The New York Times reveals that the company has designed an underwater vehicle with the capacity to lift 3,200 tons of polymetallic nodules from the floor of the Pacific Ocean.

The Law of the Sea also establishes that states have the right to explore and exploit their natural resources (wind or tidal energy) up to 200 nautical miles from their coasts. This includes minerals. Norway has set aside an area of 127,000 square miles (almost the size of Germany) to study the feasibility of deep sea mining. The public agency responsible for regulating resources  the Norwegian Petroleum Directorate (NPD)  has discovered significant amounts of offshore cobalt, copper, manganese, nickel and rare earth elements.

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China's Consular Affairs Office issued a statement on Sunday, expressing its dissatisfaction with France after an incident in Marseille where a bus carrying a Chinese tour group had its windows shattered, resulting in minor injuries to some passengers.

As reported by Reuters, the Consulate General in Marseille raised the complaint, highlighting the concern over the incident.

The Consulate General's formal complaint called for France to ensure the safety of Chinese citizens and their property, the statement said.

The Consular Office statement said, The bus was attacked by rioters on Thursday, according to state broadcaster CCTV, during violence which hit French cities in recent days since the police shooting of a teenager of North African descent. The Chinese tourists have since left France."

Chinese citizens in France or heading to France should "strengthen prevention" and be "more vigilant and cautious" in light of the riots which have swept across the country in recent days, the Consular office statement added.

Rioting across France appeared to be less intense on Saturday, as tens of thousands of police had been deployed in cities across the country after the funeral of the teenager, although there was some tension in central Paris and sporadic clashes in Nice, Strasbourg and Marseille.

In the midst of France's fifth consecutive night of unrest following the police killing of a teenager, young rioters engaged in clashes with the police and targeted the home of a mayor by setting a car on fire, AP reported.

However, compared to previous nights, the overall level of violence seemed to decrease. As part of a massive security deployment, law enforcement authorities made 719 arrests nationwide by early Sunday in an attempt to calm the country's most significant social upheaval in years.

As reported by AP, the number of nationwide arrests decreased compared to the previous night, a trend attributed to the determined actions of the security forces, according to Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin. Since the death of Nahel, over 3,000 individuals have been detained in total. While some residents in targeted neighbourhoods and shop owners affected by looting have welcomed the significant police presence, others perceive it as exacerbating the core issues of France's current crisis, specifically police behaviour.

The unrest has also had an impact on President Macron's diplomatic standing. His planned state visit to Germany, which would have been the first by a French president in 23 years, was postponed due to the ongoing situation. Macron was originally scheduled to travel to Germany on Sunday.

The violence has taken a toll on law enforcement, with hundreds of police officers and firefighters injured. The exact number of injured protesters has not been disclosed by authorities. Additionally, in French Guiana, an overseas territory, a 54-year-old individual lost their life after being struck by a stray bullet.
Kate Middleton delighted a group of school students during a recent visit to a London museum. As the patron of the parent institution, the Duchess of Cambridge attended the opening of the refurbished Young V&A Museum in South London. During her interaction with the children, she shared some insights into her own family life.

Princess Charlotte, at the age of 8, holds the distinction of being the second child and only daughter of Kate Middleton and Prince William. Born in 2015, she has progressively made her presence known at Royal engagements in recent months, gracing several notable ceremonies, including the funeral of her great-grandmother, Queen Elizabeth II, and the coronation of her grandfather, King Charles III.

A TikTok video posted by the user the.royal.watcher on June 29 quickly gained popularity, amassing over 1.6 million views within 24 hours. In the clip, Princess Kate Middleton can be heard charmingly telling a group of students, "I'm Charlotte's mommy." The endearing moment captured the hearts of viewers, receiving more than 77,000 likes and attracting 300 comments.

In a light-hearted moment, one curious student asked the Duchess about her age. With a mischievous whisper, Kate humorously responded, "I'm 41. But don't tell anyone!" During her visit to the museum, Kate Middleton also took the opportunity to emphasise her role as the institution's patron.

Amidst the engaging conversation, Kate revealed that her daughter, Princess Charlotte, would be entering Year Four (equivalent to third grade) in the upcoming academic year. When one student asked if she was Charlotte's mother, the Duchess replied playfully, confirming her maternal role and expressing her love for her children.

Furthermore, Kate mentioned that her eldest son, Prince George, is currently in Year Five while her youngest, Prince Louis, is in Reception, which is the first year of primary education in the UK. The Duchess also shared that her children have a passion for storytelling and often entertain her with their imaginative tales.

In 2021, she launched The Royal Foundation Centre for Early Childhood, demonstrating her commitment to promoting the well-being and development of young children. In 2023, the Duchess initiated an awareness campaign entitled "Shaping Us", aimed at highlighting the crucial importance of early childhood experiences in shaping individuals and society.
Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg who last week visited Kyiv to draw attention to environmental damage caused by the Ukraine war, has criticized the world's response to the June 6 collapse of the vast hydro-electric Kakhovka dam that killed more than 100 people and flooded across southern Ukraine and Russian-occupied areas of the Kherson region.

The causes of the dams collapse have yet to be established but Ukrine has blamed Russia for one of the biggest ecological disasters Europe has seen in the last few decades.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky described the dams collapse as an environmental bomb of mass destruction." Calling it a war crime and possible criminal environmental destruction, or "ecocide", Zelensky has estimated the cost of the dam's collapse at 1.2 billion euros.

Several high profile figures outside Ukraine have also agreed with the Ukrainian president. The Swedish climate activist told reporters that ecocide and environmental destruction is a form of warfare as Ukrainians by this point know all too well, and so does Russia."

"And that's why they are deliberately targeting the environment and people's livelihoods and homes and therefore also destroying lives...," Thunberg added.

As the world continues to witness ecological disasters that span national borders, criminal accountability is rare, due lack of proper legislation and investigative process. But there has been a long-running fight to get large-scale environmental destruction recognized as an international crime, prosecutable at the International Criminal Court (ICC).

What is ecocide?

Until now, international criminal law has focused mainly on crimes committed directly against people, now experts feel that there is a gap when it comes to global legislation that would target the gravest harms to the environment.

In 2021, a expert panel drafted legislation that, if adopted, would add ecocide" as the fifth crime the ICC can prosecute, alongside genocide, crimes against humanity, war crimes and the crime of aggression.

The panel defined ecocide as unlawful or wanton acts committed with knowledge that there is a substantial likelihood of severe and either widespread or long-term damage to the environment being caused by those acts."

When you put ecocide alongside genocide, its also about saying that actually, when we destroy ecosystems upon which we essentially depend for our existence, then that is just as bad, wrong, dangerous, serious as destroying people," CNN reported quoting Jojo Mehta, co-founder and executive director of Stop Ecocide International as saying.

Mehta believes the legislation could help stop environmental crimes being perpetrated in the first place, forcing corporate executives and political leaders to consider the environmental damage their actions may cause.

What happens next?

Though, the legislation proposed by the expert panel is yet to be adopted by the more than 120 countries that are parties to the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court, but several countries, including Ukraine, have already adopted ecocide as a crime under domestic law.

Some experts believe adoption of the proposed legislation by the ICC is inevitable. It is not a question of whether ecocide will become part of international criminal law, its only a question of when," Philippe Sands, was part of the expert panel, said.

Though, there are sticking points.

The fact that ecocide would not just apply in conflicts could be an obstacle, reported CNN quoting Doug Weir of a UK-based charity Conflict and Environment Observatory as saying. It also applies in peacetime, and its also potentially targeting corporations, like big oil companies, who may well be committing ecocide through their actions," said Weir. There are a number of countries that may fear how far it could go, or what it could constrain," he added.

Many experts still believe that the recognition of ecocide as a separate crime at the ICC is needed to provide the tools to hold people accountable, and also to act as a deterrent, the report said.

Ukraine calculates the damage

In southern Ukraine, officials and non-profits are still trying to figure out the extent of the ecological catastrophe resulting from the dam collapse.

Once picturesque coastline of Odesa has turned into a garbage dump and animal cemetery," Ukrainian authorities have said. Nearly 3,000 people have been evacuated from the Kherson and Mykolaiv regions.

There are also fears more environmental disasters could follow. The biggest nuclear plant in Europe, the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant in southern Ukraine, is currently under Russian control and could cause an ecological catastrophe if it were damaged, Weir said.

(With inputes from agencies)
World UFO Day is an annual worldwide celebration that takes place on either July 2 or June 24, depending on the tradition followed. It aims to promote the gathering of people who are interested in observing the skies for unidentified flying objects (UFOs).

The date June 24 is significant as it marks the first widely reported UFO sighting in the United States.

History

On July 2, 1952, a significant event took place in Washington, D.C., involving multiple sightings of unidentified flying objects (UFOs). These sightings were not only reported by numerous individuals but were also confirmed by radar operators and witnessed by experienced pilots. The incident garnered substantial attention from the public, increasing their fascination with UFOs and prompting government investigations into these phenomena.

World UFO Day was officially established in 2001 by Haktan Akdogan, a Turkish UFO researcher. Initially, it was celebrated on June 24 to commemorate the first widely reported UFO sighting in the United States. However, in order to avoid conflicts with other UFO-related events, the date was later changed to July 2. This change was made to coincide with the significant UFO sightings that occurred over Washington, D.C. on July 2, 1952.

Significance

World UFO Day holds significance as it serves as a platform to foster open discussions and debates regarding the existence of extraterrestrial life. By encouraging the free exchange of ideas and theories, this day promotes a broader understanding of the possibility that we are not alone in the universe. It prompts individuals to contemplate our position in the vast cosmos and embrace the exhilarating concept of life beyond Earth.

How to Celebrate

Taking part in UFO conventions: Numerous UFO conventions take place worldwide throughout the year, providing excellent opportunities to expand knowledge about UFOs, connect with fellow enthusiasts, and explore exhibits showcasing UFO sightings. These events serve as valuable gatherings for learning and networking within the UFO community, offering a platform to delve deeper into the subject and engage with like-minded individuals. Additionally, attendees can enjoy firsthand experiences through the exhibitions that showcase various aspects of UFO sightings.

Research about UFOs: A wide range of books on UFOs are readily available for reading, offering ample opportunities to explore the subject in-depth. Additionally, numerous documentaries focusing on UFOs are accessible for viewing, providing visual and audio accounts of these phenomena. Moreover, there are numerous websites dedicated to offering comprehensive information about UFOs. These websites serve as valuable resources for learning about UFO sightings, accessing firsthand eyewitness accounts, and examining photographs and videos of UFOs. Utilizing these online platforms can greatly contribute to expanding one's knowledge and understanding of the subject matter.

See documentaries: There are a plethora of documentaries available that delve into the topic of UFOs. These documentaries offer various perspectives, theories, and evidence related to unidentified flying objects. They often feature interviews with eyewitnesses, experts, and researchers who share their insights and experiences.
Justice Ranjana Desai will soon deliver to the Uttarakhand government a report on the implementation of the Uniform Civil Code and the draft code itself. We have talked to all the parties," says Justice Desai. This report will help to build the social fabric while furthering gender equality."

If the Bharatiya Janata Party government in Uttarakhand receives a favourable report from this commission, which was appointed a year ago, Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami would make every effort to enact the code expeditiously. If this happens, Uttarakhand will join Goa as the second state of India to enact the UCC. In Goa, the code was first implemented in 1867 by its then Portuguese rulers. Post Independence, in 1961, Goa re-adopted the code with some modifications.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi himself has set this agenda while addressing BJP workers in Bhopal on 27 June. The party seems focused on this strategy for the 2024 elections. Following the PMs statement, the parliamentary committee called representatives from the Central Law Commission and the law ministry to discuss the matter.

The Opposition is questioning why the PM chose this time for such an issue. The answer is simple. Five states will hold assembly elections in the coming months. This will be the litmus test" on the proposal.

The Opposition is also asking why the BJP, despite being in power in Gujarat for a quarter century, has taken no similar initiative in that state. Is the BJP not serious about this? It is far too early to assume so. Keep the 2019 election in mind. Triple talaq and Article 370 were referenced in bold letters in the partys election campaign advertisements. The Modi government put these into action immediately after regaining power. Was the PM actually giving a message in Bhopal that if the BJP won the upcoming elections, it would get UCC implemented?

The Muslim Personal Law Boards point of view should also be discussed here. The board resolved to give its opinion only to the law commission, at its meeting the day after Modis statement. The meaning is clear: the board wishes to proceed cautiously as they understand that public outrage will benefit the BJP. Will they be able to silence the maulanas who began yelling on TV on this issue? Will the Oppositions boastful leaders show some restraint?

According to media reports, Shiv Sena (Uddhav), a prominent alliance partner of anti-BJP front, agrees with the BJP on the matter. Is this why Sharad Pawar speaks with caution? Pay close attention to the Aam Aadmi Partys position here: It will support the law if the government enacts it with support of all parties. Parties such as the Congress and the National Conference, though, are openly opposed to UCC. Will this have an impact on Opposition unity?

Two significant occurrences in the next six months should also be mentioned here. In September, India will lead the G-20 heads of states meeting. Since Narendra Modi is the events chairperson, he will be at the centre of all activities. Similarly, the Ramlala Temple in Ayodhya will be dedicated early next year. The BJP will undoubtedly try to capitalize on this.

From the Congress perspective, there has undoubtedly been a good shift since the last election. Rahul Gandhi has overcome the taint on his image by the Bharat Jodo Yatra". Nobody calls him Pappu" anymore. He is continuously trying to improve his image. Rahul was interacting with victims of violence in Manipur when Justice Ranjana Desai was speaking to reporters. Previously, he had been successful in grabbing headlines by travelling in trucks at times and reaching out to students or working ladies at other times. The victories in Himachal Pradesh and Karnataka have improved the Congresss morale. Meanwhile, Priyanka Gandhi has increasingly made her presence felt, and the party has attempted to send a message to the marginalized Dalit voters by appointing Mallikarjun Kharge to the office of president. With Kharge taking centre stage, allegations of nepotism have receded.

Is this sufficient for 2024?

There is no harm in discussing Opposition unity here. On 23 June in Patna, 15 parties pledged to contest the elections together. The same leaders will now meet again in Bengaluru. Will they be able to strike an agreement this time? They should keep in mind that the BJP will use religion, nationalism, public welfare, and the PMs strong personality to win the election for the third time in a row.

Because the BJP has already begun to set up the chess board, the Opposition will have to make a firm decision soon.

Shashi Shekhar is editor-in-chief, Hindustan. Views are personal.
The US Supreme Court has deemed it illegal for universities to practise affirmative action", which is an American phrase for what Indians call reservations". This is a part of the courts war against discrimination based on race", which is an American word for caste", and to assert the US Constitutions colorblindness," which is American idealistic nonsense whose Indian equivalent is secularism." The verdict was split with a majority of judges in favour of abolition and three dissents, marking not the end of a war, but a historic moment in an eternal political contest of two bad arguments.

The argument that triumphed is hinged on the view that everyone is equal in theory. The dissenting argument is based on the idea that society should lower the bar for some people to help them catch up. One argument is dear to people who venerate merit because they misunderstand their own luck for talent. Among the people who celebrated the verdict was Donald Trump, who was born into wealth. He wrote, People with extraordinary ability and everything else necessary for success, including future greatness for our Country, are finally being rewarded" This is almost exactly how many upper castes in India would react if the top court deems all quotas in educational institutions illegal. There is an implication in this view that their success is a result of their innate abilities. They think merit begins at the start of an entrance exam, and not in the cradle or earlier. What they cannot see is that being born into the upper class is a system with a 100% reservation for its own. Just look what happened in some spheres of life when a broad section of Indians got some opportunities. There was a time when it seemed only upper castes could crack the Joint Entrance Exam of the Indian Institutes of Technology, or even have the right technique to be batsmen. All that has changed.

The other argument, the one that lost, is more humane and like all humane arguments about equality it is dear to people who are beneficiaries of inequality. It is also dear to people of a race or caste or group that is perceived as the underclass". Especially the elite among them, who are in the best position to gain from affirmative action. They appropriate the trauma of their people, even though they themselves are privileged. When a society lowers the bar to help victims of historical injustice, the people who benefit the most from are not weakest in the group, but the best off.

I do not say that African-Americans who benefited from affirmative action were all affluent, but I do say that they were, in their own ways luckier than most of their community. Even to work hard and succeed, you need to come from the right home. There are African-Americans who got college admission on merit" as Indians would call it. They endure the discomfort of being perceived as unfairly selected. This is among the arguments that conservatives have presented to abolish affirmative action. It is not that their hearts ache for meritorious" African-Americans, but because arguments need moral facades.

Michelle Obama issued a statement on the verdict that tried to remind us she entered Princeton and Harvard not because of quotas, but because she had worked hard" for it; I sometimes wondered if people thought I got there because of affirmative action. It was a shadow that students like me couldnt shake, whether those doubts came from the outside or inside our own minds." She considers affirmative action essential, though, despite some of its problems. Her husband Barack Obama reacted similarly: Affirmative action was never a complete answer in the drive towards a more just society. But for generations of students who had been systematically excluded from most of Americas key institutionsit gave us the chance to show we more than deserved a seat at the table."

The problem with affirmative action is that it has not realized its goals; it has not liberated most African-Americans. So why have a policy that gives to privileged African-Americans what it takes from privileged Caucasians?

If both the arguments on affirmative action are flawed, then what is the solution to the fact that some people having an unfair head-start over the rest?

Much strife in the modern world emerges from constricted paths to economic well-being. What you love doing or what youre very good at is usually not lucrative. Most entrepreneurs, artists and athletes fail to make a good living. A more certain path to a decent life is corporate bureaucracy, whose doors are guarded by a club that demands quality education" for entry. So the consecration of higher education is not only a fake solution to social problems, but also a creator of new forms of inequality. It is a club that wishes to broaden the diversity of its snobs by luring people to imitate straight Caucasian males.

There will always be inequality because that is the instinctive objective of individual ambition. The central aim of a typical family is to provide an unfair advantage to the familys children. Economic inequality is far less unnatural than people think. Social equality, which means the rich pretending everyone is equal, is possible because mass acting is not hard to achieve.

An ideal society would not waste its time trying to end inequality. Instead, it would try to establish a compassionate government that makes a high quality of life inexpensive for everyone, with only things like a seat in a carbon-fibre submarine that are left unaffordable.

Manu Joseph is a journalist, novelist, and the creator of the Netflix series, Decoupled
Senior NCP leader Ajit Pawar led a rebellion on Sunday, joining the Eknath Shinde-led Maharashtra government. He was accompanied by eight other prominent lawmakers from the party and insisted that all NCP MLAs were with him". A year after the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena rebellion toppled the Maharashtra government last year, there is now speculation that the NCP too may be heading towards a vertical split.

Several people will criticise now a bit. We don't give value to that and we will keep working for the progress of Maharashtra and that is why we have taken this decision. Most of our MLAs are satisfied with this. We have supported this govt with NCP Party. We will contest all elections in the name of NCP only," Ajit Pawar said after the oath ceremony.

Ajit Pawar said there was no split in NCP and claimed all the elected representatives (of the party) have supported the decision to join the government. He also said they would contest all future elections on the NCP's name and symbol.

Party chief Sharad Pawar meanwhile said that action would be taken the NCP leaders who violated the party line. He rebutted suggestions that the recent developments had split his house.

"This is not about the question of a house. Such things happen in politics, and it has to be dealt with politically," he said.

Numerous Shiv Sena and BJP lawmakers have however claimed that 40 MLAs (out of 53) were supporting Ajit Pawar.

"Ajit Pawar has the backing of more than 40 MLAs in Vidhan Sabha and more than 6 MLCs in Vidhan Parishad," party sources told news agency ANI.

(With inputs from agencies)
Senior NCP leader Ajit Pawar led a rebellion of sorts on Sunday afternoon taking oath as Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra under the Eknath Shinde administration. He was accompanied by eight MLAs who will now be allocated various portfolios under the NDA government in the state.

According to reports quoting sources, the MLAs accompanying Pawar to the Raj Bhawan had been upset with NCP supremo Sharad Pawar's 'unilateral' decision to share the stage and ally with Rahul Gandhi at the opposition unity meet in Bihar last month.

The development also comes in the wake of announcements that the Maharashtra government would soon expand its Cabinet. Chief Minister Eknath Shinde however said that a seat sharing agreement was yet to be ironed out.

Here's a full list of NCP MLAs who joined the government today:



Ajit Pawar

Chhagan Bhujbal

Hasan Mushrif

Aditi Tatkare

Dhananjay Munde

Dilip Walse Patil

Dharmarao Baba Atram

Anil Patil

Sanjay Bansode

Maharashtra has seen four oath-taking ceremonies in as many years at its stately Raj Bhavan. Indeed, this is the third time that Pawar has been sworn in as Deputy Chief Minister since the 2019 elections.

Earlier in the day a slew of party leaders also attended a meeting at his residence. The meeting - that NCP chief Sharad Pawar later said he was unaware of - was attended by the partys national working president Praful Patel and Supriya Sule. The latter had reportedly left the meeting halfway.

Pawar had recently indicated his desire to step down from the Leader of the Opposition role. Assign me any post in the party organisation and I will do complete justice to whatever responsibility given to me," he had said on Wednesday.

(With inputs from agencies)
Senior NCP leader Ajit Pawar became the Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra for the third time in four years on Sunday. The 63-year-old leader has worked with three different CMs since the 2019 elections and made no bones about his willingness to assume the top post. But the 2019 elections were not the beginning of Pawar's conflicts with the NCP and its leaders.

We already knew that this was going to happen," said Uddhav Thackeray Faction MP Sanjay Raut soon after the oath ceremony. Others including Congress MLA Vijay Namdevrao Wadettiwar appeared to concur even as many marvelled at the abruptness of it all.

Pawar's clashes with the NCP leadership however are not new. In 2009 for example, he had made waves after coming forward to openly criticise his uncle Sharad Pawar's decisions and leadership style. He is believed to have been eyeing the Deputy CM post at the time but failed to secure the job (it went to now minister Chhagan Bhujbal). Pawar had threatened to resign and it was some time before he reconciled with the party.

He eventually went on to serve as deputy CM during the 15-year Congress-NCP government under Ashok Chavan and Prithviraj Chavan.

ALSO READ: From 'no NCP' to lauding 'triple engine': How CM Eknath Shinde changed stance

More recently, Pawar's relationship with his party has become increasingly turbulent. Having been re-elected from Baramati Assembly constituency with the highest margin of more than 1.65 lakh votes, he had joined hands with the BJP for a short stint as Deputy CM in 2019.

The government led by BJP's Devendra Fadnavis and Pawar took oath in a hush hush early morning ceremony and ultimately lasted a mere 80 hours - perhaps the shortest term on record. As the Maha Vikas Aghadi alliance emerged, Pawar had returned to the party fold.

He served as deputy chief minister in the MVA government led by Thackeray for two and a half years till its dissolution.

ALSO READ: Ajit Pawar's move reminds Sharad Pawar's 1978 rebellion against Vasantdada Patil

In May this year, before Sharad Pawar announced his short-lived decision to quit as the party chief, Ajit Pawar had visited Delhi to meet the BJP leadership. Reports quoting sources suggested that Supriya Sule's elevation in the party expedited his decision to join the ruling BJP-Shiv Sena alliance.

Last week Pawar had appealed to the party leadership to relieve him of the responsibility of leader of the opposition in the Maharashtra Assembly and assign him a role in the party organisation.

(With inputs from agencies)
A group of anonymous individuals claimed that ChatGPT creator OpenAI Inc is stealing a vast amount of personal information to train its artificial intelligence models in a heedless hunt for profits. They have filed a lawsuit against the company and sought a class action status.

In the 157-page lawsuit, the individuals claimed that OpenAI has violated privacy laws by secretly scraping 300 billion words from the internet, tapping content including personal information obtained without consent, according to Bloomberg reports.

The Clarkson Law Firm on Wednesday filed a suit against ChatGPT creator on Wednesday in federal court in San Francisco. They cite $3 billion in potential damages.

Despite established protocols for the purchase and use of personal information, Defendants took a different approach: theft," they allege as quoted by Bloomberg News.

They said that ChatGPT along with the company's other products is trained on private information taken from hundreds of millions of internet users without their permission.

Congress is debating the potential and dangers of artificial intelligence as the products raise questions about the future of creative industries and the ability to tell fact from fiction.

Last month, OpenAI Chief Executive Officer Sam Altman himself called for AI regulation. The company is accused in the suit of conducting an enormous clandestine web-scraping operation, violating terms of service agreements and state and federal privacy and property laws.

The lawsuit reads, OpenAI illegally accesses private information from individuals interactions with its products and from applications that have integrated ChatGPT."

Such integrations allow the company to gather image and location data from Snapchat, music preferences on Spotify, financial information from Stripe and private conversations on Slack and Microsoft Teams," it added.

The plaintiffs also claimed that OpenAI abandoned its original principle of advancing artificial intelligence in the way that is most likely to benefit humanity as a whole.

The suit puts ChatGPTs expected revenue for 2023 at $200 million, as per Bloomberg reports.

The group is also asking the court to temporarily freeze commercial access to and further development of OpenAIs products.

(With Bloomberg inputs)
South Africa: North West to investigate blocked housing projects

North West Acting Premier and Human Settlements MEC, Nono Maloyi, has called on the Bojanala District Municipality and departmental officials to investigate and submit a report with recommendations regarding all outstanding blocked housing projects.

The report should include blocked projects which were not covered on a preliminary report.

Maloyi visited the area this week to assess projects in the district, some of which are reported to be in existence for over 10 years and are expected to undergo further testing by the National Home Builders Registration Council (NHBRC).

During his visit, Maloyi introduced seven contractors to fast track the completion of the blocked projects and resolved some housing challenges in the district. The contractors will be introduced to ward councillors and community members.

He warned the contractors against shoddy work, non-performance and late completion of projects in the rural areas of the province.

The projects are expected to be completed by December 2023.

The MEC recommended the termination or downscaling of non-performing contractors, and called on the department to appoint contractors with capacity that will complete projects on time.

We are hopeful and certain that appointed contractors will complete those projects on time. We are also monitoring performance and the quality of work done, [and] answering a call by people of the North West to build a sustainable human settlements for them, Maloyi said.

Illegal occupation of houses

Maloyi raised his concern at the continuous illegal occupation of low cost houses and community residential units across the province.

He reiterated the commitment he made during his budget vote recently that the department, in collaboration with municipalities, will deal decisively with such invaders, in line with municipal bylaws, in order to restore the houses to their rightful beneficiaries.

Some of the areas dealing with illegal invasion include Marikana and Matlosana.

We are concerned about the illegal occupation of houses built for our beneficiaries. Every house constructed in this province has a specific beneficiary, said Maloyi.

The MEC and his team will this week visit the Dr Ruth Segomutsi Mompati District Municipality and continue to revisit other districts to monitor performance.  SAnews.gov.za

This story has been published on: 2023-07-02. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article.
Eighteen centuries ago, the philosopher Plotinus stated that human beings are halfway between gods and beasts, sensing a path that linked our nature with that of animals. Charles Darwin, in The Descent of Man, elaborated on that perception by expressing his fears that many people would be annoyed by the main conclusion of his book: that humanity descended from an inferior organic being. Now, Portuguese neurologist Antonio Damasio has gone even further, stating that there is a link between our cultural life and the first microorganisms; that our consciousness did not arise suddenly, but is part of a path that, through feelings, links us to the beasts.

Sensations as basic as hunger, thirst or pain are behind the most sublime art and the most sophisticated technological advances. Fundamental feelings, he says, help us adapt to our environment and are the first step towards the consciousness that for millennia was the defining feature of humanity. Damasio is the director of the Brain and Creativity Institute at the University of Southern California (USC); his theories have inspired neuroscientists and intellectuals, and some of his books, such as Descartes Error, are a reference in the dissemination of science and philosophy. He recently visited Madrid, Spain, invited by the Bankinter Foundation, to talk about how the progressive knowledge of the brain is facilitating the brain-machine connection and the latest advances in artificial intelligence.

Question. You did your thesis in Lisbon in the 1960s. If you could travel back in time and meet your younger self, what would be the most shocking developments of recent decades for that other Antonio Damasio?

Answer. I did a doctorate in neuroscience, but I was I was also a neurologist and I trained as a neurologist. As a neurologist, I would be telling him about the spectacular developments in the way we can treat neurological diseases. For example, there is a remarkable set of developments in Lausanne, in Switzerland. They have restored the ability of a paraplegic to walk with electrical patches that stimulate the spinal cord. No one, 20 years ago, would have hoped for something like this.

The other thing is something that is astonishing but almost frightening: the possibility of having direct implants in our brain that can act on our mental functions and on the way we make decisions. Theyre implants that can technically help someone that has a disease, like Parkinsons, or an implant could help with Alzheimers disease, for example, with a recovery of memory. Of course, any time you plant something in your brain you face a lot of risks, infection risks and the damage that you could cause, as you are basically charting new territory. Its like shooting for the Moon; you dont quite know where youre going to land. Newer technologies have enormous potential for good, but we have to move forward very cautiously so that we dont make mistakes.

Q. Sometimes technological advances go in frustrating directions: we have phones to watch videos of kittens, but no flying cars, and we may develop implants to view those images without touching the phone, but we dont make advances in the treatment of Alzheimers.

A. The commercial interests, of course, play a big role, because historically, human beings have done a lot of things because of the prospect of profit. But its also because there are certain things that fascinate people and others that dont. Taking care of something very simple, like an upset stomach or a problem with the skin, is less fascinating than things like moonshots.

Q. You talk about motivations, and motivations have a lot to do with feelings, something you have researched and written about extensively throughout your career. If feelings are a tool to adapt to our environment, is it a good idea to always act on our feelings?

A. There are some feelings that we have to follow, and those are the homeostatic feelings [homeostasis is the bodys ability to keep its interior stable despite changes in the environment]. Our consciousness is made up of those feelings. For example, the feeling of body temperature. Its monitoring you all the time, and it tells you what to wear or if you suddenly have a fever, that theres something wrong with you. So feelings like body temperature, hunger, thirst, pain, well-being, malaise; thats what I call homeostatic feelings, because they translate the state of homeostasis, which is the technical term for life regulation.

Thats what we think is the genesis of consciousness. Now, there are other feelings that are not good guides. For example, the feeling of ambition, the feeling of enormous joy and excitement, the feeling of envy, the feeling of anger or the feeling of sadness. Those are emotional feelings, and our emotions can be good guides sometimes, but sometimes they derail us. The emotion of ambition can be extremely destructive; anger too. One of the things which we most need to govern as individuals and as social and political agents is to guide a lot of the horrible things that emotions can lead us to do.

Q. But if we look at classical education, in part, it consists of fighting against feelings such as hunger or the search for immediate well-being in order to achieve freedom. It is using reason against feelings to achieve long-term benefits.

A. Homeostatic feelings are always positive because they tell you what to do immediately, but they also suggest a social and political project that could allow you to overcome problems of hunger and thirst. In the immediate term, they can save your life, but then, as motivations for social and political action, they can lead you to have the right development so that people can have food and water. So I think that theyre generally very good counselors.

Q. It also seems that emotions have more and more weight in politics. Does this have anything to do with an increase in the complexity of the reality in which we live and that comes to us through the internet? Do we take refuge in emotional intuitions when reality confuses us?

A. Its not so much what we can do in terms of controlling the emotion, but in terms of trying to control the social effects of our own success. The internet is an incredible development in our lives. When I was in medical school, there was very little that I could find without going to a library. If I wanted to read an article by a scientist from another country, I would have to write [to ask for it]. Today I have that at my fingertips. Thats wonderful. On the other hand, the internet also allows social media to exist, and I think that a lot of what youre describing is a side effect of the brutal development of social media, which allows you to constantly be confronting people. Instead of having a bit of time to think, analyze the facts, you can respond immediately.

A lot of good things came with these technical developments, but also some negative aspects. It used to be that you would spend some minutes, about three minutes, on a certain image, and now you spend 30 seconds. We have this acceleration of the way we deal with reality thats largely being transacted through a device that you carry with you. I have this image, especially post-Covid-19, where Im walking at the university at USC, which is a very nice campus, they have beautiful buildings, parks, trees, all of that. You see all these students walking around and talking and they bump into you. There are days in which theres not a single person that does not have this thing in their hands. Its amazing. How can you function that way?

Neurologist Antonio Damaso. Jaime Villanueva

Q. There is a book called Amusing Ourselves to Death, by Neil Postman, from 1985. It talks about how audiovisual culture and the dependence of American citizens on television are dumbing down people, making them incapable of paying attention to complex speech. You could change television for internet or social media in the book and the arguments would be identical to those used today to criticize them and, even so, we dont seem to have become fools since 1985. Scientific advance is much faster now than then.

A. I think its not us in general. Some people are capable of surviving in this fast environment and being creative in spite of it, but there are some people for whom this is disastrous.

Q. When you were a student, the separation between humans and animals was much clearer. Only we had consciousness and there was less concern for the feelings of other animals. Now we think that we are all part of a continuum; that in the matter of consciousness there is no leap from the animal nothing to the human everything.

A. Exactly.

Q. Do you think that this imposes some ethical decision on us?

A. I think its quite apparent that there are lots of animals that are conscious in the same way we are. When you look at mammals, or fish, or birds, you dont need to be very thoughtful or charitable towards animals to realize that those animals are aware of themselves, and protective of themselves, and operate in ways that are very similar to ours. They are capable of having feelings of pain, or pleasure, or hunger, or thirst. And they are operating according to very similar life regulation principles. I think, in relation to those animals that seem to have something that is very relatable to us, that we should behave in a very kind way. I dont like to propose overlegislation, but we have to think in terms of the rights of those creatures. If we humans are very well educated, we will realize that we should not be torturing them. The business of recognizing consciousness should make you more aware of those creatures.

Q. But in these ethical and political decisions there is also a lot of arbitrariness, which perhaps has to do with the emotional part of supposedly rational decisions. There are people who easily accept this continuum between animals and humans and conclude that their lives must be respected, but then they say that abortion is acceptable before three months of gestation and not after, when there is also a continuity that is arbitrarily broken.

A. We are very smart at compartmentalizing things, you know. You can eat dogs, but dont eat my dog.

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Joe Biden at the White House on Friday. Associated Press/LaPresse Evan Vucci (APN)

This is not a normal court. Thats what U.S. President Joe Biden replied when asked if the Supreme Court was corrupt. He didnt go that far, but last week, he was quick to show his indignation at three sentences made by the conservative supermajority of the Supreme Court on affirmative action, LGBTQ+ discrimination and student loan relief. These rulings have continued the conservative revolution the court embarked on last year with sentences on abortion, firearms and the fight against change climate, among others. Whats more, a defiant Biden is seeking a way to take on the court and circumvent its decisions with alternative measures, but doing so, is not proving easy.

On Thursday, after the Supreme Court struck down affirmative action in college admissions, Biden blasted the decision and commissioned the Department of Education for new admission guidelines to achieve more inclusive and diverse campuses. We cannot let this decision be the last word, he said. On Friday, he stood up again to the court after it effectively killed his plan to cancel or reduce federal student loan debts for millions of Americans. Todays decision has closed one path, now were going to pursue another. Im never going to stop fighting for you, said Biden, who announced that he will use another legal route to provide student-debt relief.

In his speech, Biden repeatedly attacked the Republicans, pointing out that Republican members of Congress were happy to receive hundreds of thousands of dollars in relief during the pandemic (loans that were forgiven), but did not support offering relief to students, from whom they had snatched away hope. The hypocrisy is stunning, he continued. These Republican officials just couldnt bear the thought of providing relief for working-class and middle-class Americans.

The conservative revolution of the Supreme Court is set to mark American politics for years. The Democrats hope that backlash to the sentences will help mobilize young, Latino and Black voters ahead of the 2024 presidential election, just as the Supreme Courts decision to struck down the federal right to abortion rallied voters at the 2022 midterm election.

Until this week, the Supreme Court appeared more willing to reach consensus. Conservative and liberal judges had joined forces in several high-profile cases to reject the most extreme lawsuits brought before the court by Republicans and conservative groups. Together they validated immigration deportation policies of the Biden government, rejected an Alabama electoral map that suppressed Black voters, and even turned a deaf ear to an even more aggressive Trumpist electoral theory, the doctrine of the independent state legislature, which threatened to undermine the foundations of democracy by leaving the electoral rules and decisions handed down by their parliaments unchecked by state courts. Conservatives and liberals also preserved the system that gives preference to Native American families in foster care and adoption proceedings of Native children.

Whats more, there was unanimity in other important decisions. The court unanimously rejected a lawsuit alleging social media platforms should be held liable for enabling a lethal attack on a Turkish nightclub, and sided with a religious mail carrier who refused to deliver packages on Sundays due to his faith.

But this vision of the court was a mirage. Its yearly term has ended with a sharp shift to the right, with the conservative and liberal justices exchanging fierce words, that at times appear person, as seen with the attacks between the two Black justices on the bench: Clarence Thomas and Ketanji Brown Jackson.

In addition to the rulings on affirmative action and student-debt relief, the Supreme Court also ruled in favor of Lorie Smith, a graphic artist who wanted to design wedding websites that refuse to work with same-sex couples. According to Ben Olinsky, vice president of the Center for American Progress, the verdict gives businesses a license to discriminate.

The case also reflects the kind of culture battles the courts conservative majority is willing to wage. No same-sex couple had asked the designer for a website for their wedding. She didnt even make websites for weddings. It was all a custom-made case promoted by an ultra-conservative group to win a battle against the LGBTQ+ community.

The last three sentences have reminded the public that the courts conservative majority  achieved thanks to the three appointments Donald Trump made during his term  is there to stay. Since Richard Nixon, no president has been able to appoint as many Supreme Court justices. Despite the fact that the Republicans have only won the popular vote in one presidential election since 1992 (the 2004 election won by George W. Bush), the Supreme Court has six conservative judges and only three liberals.

After a multi-decade, special interest-funded effort to reshape the federal judiciary, the fanatical MAGA right have captured the Supreme Court and achieved dangerous, regressive policies that they could never attain at the ballot box, said Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, while Trump and other Republicans celebrated each controversial sentence.

The court is relatively young (the oldest Conservative justices are Clarence Thomas, 75, and Samuel Alito, 73) and the seats are for life. Some Democratic lawmakers have proposed expanding the court or limiting terms, but Biden has neither a majority to approve such measures nor the desire to do so. He believes that this would only serve to further politicize the justice system.

Progressive female judges have raised their voices in private votes. In all respects, the Court today exceeds its proper and limited role, Elena Kagan wrote of the college loan ruling. The decision "rolls back decades of precedents and transcendental progress," said Sonia Sotomayor about affirmative action. "It is wrong, profoundly wrong," the three progressive judges argued about the web designer's ruling.

I think the court has misinterpreted the Constitution, Biden said on Friday in a speech that surprised experts such as Noah Rosenblum, an associate professor at the NYU School of Law. This is a very direct confrontation with the Court  much more so than after Dobbs [the case that struck down the federal right to abortion]. Wild stuff, said Rosenblum in a message on Twitter.

Scandal over luxury vacations gifted to justices The Supreme Court has not only been in the news because of its controversial rulings, but also because of several scandals, which have called into question the ethics of some of the justices. Newspaper revelations have shown that two conservative justices, Clarence Thomas and Samuel Alito, received undisclosed invitations and lavish gifts from large Republican donors. According to ProPublica, for the past 20 years, Thomas and his wife, Victoria Ginni Thomas, have received luxury hotel stays, private jet flights and cruises thanks to the generosity of their billionaire friend Harlan Crow, a prominent real estate magnate and Republican donor. In Alito's case, he went to Alaska for a fishing trip on a private plane in 2008 that belonged to a fund manager whose business interests have come before the Supreme Court. Alito, who did not step aside from the cases, denies any wrongdoing. In May, Chief Justice John Roberts said, without offering specific details, that the court is taking steps to adhere to the highest standards of conduct." Democrats have called for more regulation and transparency. This MAGA-captured Supreme Court feels free to accept lavish gifts and vacations from their powerful, big-monied friends, all while they refuse to help everyday Americans, said Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer on Friday.

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A forensic report aimed at determining whether a gun was allegedly used in an incident which resulted in a south Longford man being remanded in custody on threat to kill and false imprisonment charges has found no evidence of any firearm residue being found at the scene.

Paul Boyce (46) Kinard, Legan, Longford is currently on remand in prison charged with false imprisonment, assault and threatening to kill or cause serious harm to a female at Aghnavealoge, Legan on a date unknown between April 1 2023 and April 2 2023.

The court had been told three weeks previously of how gardai were still awaiting a report from the Forensic Science Laboratory of Ireland concerning details relating to the alleged case.

That coincided in a senior garda being appointed to the investigation in a bid to fast-track the process.

Longford Senator says households 'cancelling' TV licence fee payments in wake of RTE controversy Government bosses fear households across the country will en masse veto against paying the States 160 TV licence fee in the midst of the RTE payments crisis.

When the case returned before a recent sitting of Longford District Court, Judge John Brennan was informed the reports findings required further consultation with the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP).

The forensic report is back and it is to the benefit of Mr Geartys client, said Sgt Mark Mahon. I will be seeking further time for DPP directions in relation to the matter.

Man found shouting in Longford estate left ashamed by his behaviour, court is told A man found under the influence of alcohol as he persistently shouted in the middle of a Longford housing estate has spoken of how he has been left very ashamed and embarrassed by his actions.

Mr Gearty, defending, confirmed those remarks and said the analysis had found no trace of firearm residue in a car at the scene of the alleged incident, something he said would alleviate the seriousness of the matter.

The case was adjourned to a sitting of Longford District Court on July 4 for DPP directions when, Mr Boyce, is again expected to appear via video link.
Earlier this year Peter Panto saw Backstage Youth Theatre (BYT) mark 20 years of involvement in local pantomime. In those two decades the group nurtured the talents of a remarkable number of young actors.

Many have gone on to work in the field of dramatic arts. Among the numbers are quite a few who participated in the National Youth Theatre platform.

This year, yet again, a BYT member has been selected to perform in the National Youth Theatre. The National Youth Theatre (NYT) is a biennial event that sees 20 young people from youth theatres across Ireland working together for a year.

They develop as a company under the guidance of a professional creative team. The ensemble comprises 16 members of the performing ensemble and 4 design and technical roles. These young artists work with professional artistic and technical teams culminating in a performance in a major professional theatre venue.

Longford man calls time on four decade long career at State's largest telecoms provider In an industrial estate on the outskirts of Longford town the Eir building is a symbol of an industry that has changed remarkably in the 42 years of its existence.

The National Youth Theatre programme in partnership with the Abbey Theatre. The 2023 Production is 'Like We Were Born To Move' by Eimear Hussey.

Representing Longford is the immensely talented Setanta Flood. Setanta is a social member of BYT, added to this remarkable achievement is that he is also contending with the dreaded LC. Setanta was one of the writers of Peter Pan and is also an accomplished musician.

BYT are planning an outing to see the show in The Peacock stage at the Abbey Theatre on Saturday August 19.

This is a matinee performance at 2.30 pm. BYT members will be able to purchase a subsidised ticket for the bus and show of 25. The bus leaves Longford at about 11.30 and back by about 7pm. However, there are limited seats.
Manchester, VT (05254)

Today

Scattered thunderstorms this morning, then mainly cloudy during the afternoon with thunderstorms likely. High 73F. Winds S at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 90%. Locally heavy rainfall possible..

Tonight

Scattered thunderstorms early, with fog developing late. Potential for heavy rainfall. Low 61F. Winds SW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 80%.
Israel carried out air strikes in Syria near the government-held city of Homs, Syrian state news agency SANA said on Sunday, citing a military source.

The Israeli enemy carried out air strikes coming from northeast Beirut, targeting some points in the vicinity of the city of Homs, SANA said, quoting the source.

During more than a decade of war in Syria, Israel has launched hundreds of air strikes on its territory, primarily targeting Iran-backed forces and Lebanese Hezbollah fighters as well as Syrian army positions.

Syrian air defences intercepted some missiles, SANA said, quoting the same source, adding that there were some material losses.

SANA earlier had said the missiles were intercepted in the northern Homs countryside.

In a brief statement that did not mention the air strikes, Israels army acknowledged a Syrian anti-aircraft rocket appears to have exploded in the air over Israeli territory.

No special instructions for civilians on the Israeli home front have been issued at this time. The details are under review, it added.

The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights war monitor said the targeted area in the northeastern Homs countryside was a Hezbollah stronghold housing arms depots belonging to the Lebanese Iran-backed group.

While Israel rarely comments on the strikes it carries out on Syria, it has repeatedly said it will not allow its archfoe Iran to expand its footprint there.

On June 14, Israel carried out air strikes near Damascus wounding a soldier, according to SANA.

The Observatory said at the time that the strikes had targeted arms depots belonging to pro-Iran fighters.

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Five For Fighting (aka John Ondrasik) will be joining Barenaked Ladies on their Last Summer on Earth tour, making stops at Mohegan Sun Arena in Uncasville, Connecticut, on July 7 and Leader Bank Pavilion in Boston on July 9.

Ondrasik will bring along his band, drummer Randy Cooke, bassist Sean Hurley, and guitarist Peter Thorn.

The boys and I are thrilled to be back in the bus this summer opening for Barenaked Ladies across the United States, Ondrasik said in a press release. Our summer 2022 post pandemic headline tour was a poignant reminder of how fortunate we are to share the communal experience of live music with audiences, and we are grateful to be back

To date, Five For Fighting has released six studio albums, including the platinum-certified America Town and The Battle for Everything.
President Joe Biden meets with NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg in the Oval Office of the White House, Tuesday, June 13, 2023, in Washington

President Joe Biden will head to Europe at weeks end for a three-country trip intended to bolster the international coalition against Russian aggression as the war in Ukraine extends well into its second year.

The main focus of Bidens five-day visit will be the annual NATO summit, held this year in Vilnius, Lithuania. Also planned are stops in Helsinki, Finland, to commemorate the Nordic countrys entrance into the 31-nation military alliance in April, and Britain, the White House announced Sunday.

Biden will begin his trip next Sunday in London, meeting with King Charles III. The president did not attend Charless coronation in May, sending first lady Jill Biden to represent the United States. In June, Biden hosted British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak at the White House, where the two leaders pledged continued cooperation in defending Ukraine.

The NATO meeting comes at the latest critical point in the war. Ukraines president, Volodymyr Zelenskiy, says counteroffensive and defensive actions against Russian forces are underway as Ukrainian troops start to recapture territory in the southeastern part of the country, according to its military leaders.

Jens Stoltenberg, NATOs secretary-general, visited the White House on June 13, where he and Biden made clear that the Western alliance was united in defending Ukraine. Biden said during that meeting that he and other NATO leaders will work to ensure that each member country spends the requisite 2% of its gross domestic product on defense.

The NATO allies have never been more united. We both worked like hell to make sure that happened. And so far, so good, Biden said as he sat alongside Stoltenberg, who is expected to extend his term for another year. We see our joint strength in modernizing the relationship within NATO, as well as providing assistance to defense capabilities to Ukraine.

When Finland joined NATO in April, it effectively doubled Russias border with the worlds biggest security alliance. Biden has highlighted the strengthened NATO alliance as a signal of Moscows declining influence.

Sweden is also seeking entry into NATO, although alliance members Turkey and Hungary have yet to endorse the move. Biden will host Swedens prime minister, Ulf Kristersson, at the White House on Wednesday in a show of solidarity as the United States presses for the Nordic nations entry into NATO.

Turkeys president, Recep Tayyip Erdogan, has said Sweden is too lax on terrorist groups and security threats. Stoltenberg has said Sweden has met its obligations for membership through toughening anti-terrorist laws and other measures.

Hungarys reasons for opposing Sweden have been less defined, complaining about Swedens criticism of democratic backsliding and the erosion of rule of law. Hungary, while providing humanitarian aid to Ukraine, has also sought to balance its relations between NATO and Russia. Budapest is heavily reliant on Russia for its energy requirements.

All nations in the alliance have to ratify the entry of a new member country.

The White House has stressed that Sweden has fulfilled its commitments to join NATO and has urged that it join the alliance expeditiously.

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BEVERLY  Arvinder Arvi Bahal continually purges his bucket list.

He has run with the bulls in Spain. Trekked by sled and on foot across the frozen tundra of Antarctica. Cavorted with cheetahs and silverback gorillas in the deserts and forests of Africa. Skydived over Mount Everest. Mingled in South Sudan amid rioters.

Bahal has had audiences with then-Prince Charles of England and with His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama.

Hes marveled at towering Buddhist statues accessible primarily by horseback.

And now, he plans to celebrate his 78th birthday this fall by skydiving over pyramids near Cairo.

Adrenaline junkie? Thrill seeker? Bahal, a self-made immigrant who lives in Beverly, lives a life of wanderlust, thirsting to use his wealth to travel the globe and immerse himself in distant cultures.

He has traveled to all 193 countries recognized by the United Nations at least once, and a few that have not. He was able to travel to North Korea before tourism there became trickier  with a military guide as his companion.

In an interview at his home, he pored over stacks of glossy travel materials from his journeys, narrating along the way.

Oh, thats the first time I was in Antarctica, he tells a reporter, looking at a photo that shows him submerged for a so-called polar plunge.

How many times have you been? he is asked.

Four.

Bahal has traveled more than three million miles on various airlines, the equivalent of 120 trips around the Earth at the equator. Given all that, hes among the few who know firsthand this planets beauty and tragedy.

From pole to war zone

Bahal calls Antarctica one of the most pristine and dazzling places in the world, with its glaciers, blinding snow glare and biting temperatures. He travels in search of more than beauty. A recent trip took him to Syria for the second time in 20 years. He went to witness the war-torn country for himself after American tourist visas became more available.

I went to see the destruction. I had a guide and a driver take us from Damascus to the historic area of Palmyra. All the buildings, the temples  all bombed out and destroyed. It was very disheartening, Bahal said, noting the frequent military checkpoints.

There, he met a family that invited him and a friend to eat a traditional meal prepared at their home. It was one of the best he has ever eaten, Bahal said.

Despite the wealth he has amassed in the import-export and real estate industries, he eschews five-star hotels in favor of small Airbnbs or boutique hotels. He has even pitched a tent on occasion or hopped an overnight ride on a freight train bound for the Islamic Republic of Mauritania, in the northwest corner of Africa where many of its residents are nomads.

Really all Im looking for is a clean bed and a hot shower, he says, adding that he prefers sites that are less touristy. The most valuable travel resources are the locals wherever I go. More than 99% of them are very hospitable as long as you are respectful of their cultures and traditions.

Arvi Bahal visits in 2019 with His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama. (Photo courtesy of Arvi Bahal)

A trip that has remained out of reach may have Bahal rocketing into space next year on a Virgin Galactic shuttle. That craft made its first trip last week. Billionaire founder Richard Branson has come under fire for greenlighting the mission just a week after the Titan submersible imploded, killing five people on their way to explore the ruins of the Titanic.

But Bahal shows his space reservation proudly: Future Astronaut No. 326. He purchased the ticket for $250,000. Reservations on the commercial space flights have since shot up to $450,000. He has already attended passenger training in New Mexico and is anxiously awaiting a flight date.

Arrival in U.S.

Bahal immigrated from India to the United States in the 1970s, while in his 20s. He landed at John F. Kennedy International Airport with $108 in his pocket, as that was all the Indian government would allow for travel to America at the time. He had heard much about Times Square and asked his cabbie to take him to Broadway at 2 a.m.

A former polo player and manager of a tea factory, overseeing 6,000 employees, Bahal took up residence at the YMCA for $3 in nightly board. His first encounter with a New Yorker was less than hospitable.

I had a drink with a gentleman  although I shouldnt call him that  at a local bar. I told him my story and I was wearing gold rings I planned to sell to have more money, Bahal recounts.

The man lured him to a waiting car with purported plans to head to another watering hole, but instead tried to hold him up at knifepoint for his jewelry. A New York City police cruiser came screaming by with its sirens and lights on just at that moment, and Bahal was able to escape without injury. Serendipity, he says.

That, and an entrepreneurial spirit, has gotten him to where he is today, Bahal believes. When he was nearly out of money in New York, he called a man he knew in Boston who owned a factory there and invited him to come stay. Bahal was short about $3 for the train ticket. He sold one of his Indian silk scarves on the street for $5 and set out.

And the rest, as they say ... Bahal says with a grin.

He began working as a dishwasher at the Copley Hotel and in other areas of the hospitality industry. He started importing Indian clothing during the mid- to late-70s, when Eastern-inspired clothing was hot. Bahal met his wife, Pam, in Boston and married in 1979. He later began investing in real estate domestically and internationally.

Arvi Bahal poses at the monument to Rear Admiral Richard E. Byrd, polar explorer, at McMurdo Station in Antarctica. (Photo courtesy of Arvi Bahal)

The couple eventually settled in Beverly and raised two children in the pretty seaside suburb that has become more and more posh over the years. They now live in a condo with a view of an ocean marina. He and Pam have been married for 44 years and have four grandchildren.

Bahals aim is to never retire completely and to continue globe-trotting. He holds a pilots license and flew his own single-engine plane until he sold it some years back. He has taken helicopter piloting classes and earned a certificate, but never pursued a license. It didnt seem useful enough.

Whatever it costs

Asked about his travel budget, Bahal says he doesnt really have one.

When you have a passion, you find ways to work it out, he says.

Soon after arriving home from Syria in June, he was preparing for a two-week cruise from Barcelona to Istanbul, a city he says he knows even better than Boston. Cruising is not really his speed, but he is devoted to his wife.

Luxury cruise liners, small ships. Im not really one to rough it like Arvi does, Pam says, showing the dimpled smile that likely captivated her husband nearly 50 years ago.

Neither does she hold her husband back from his relentless travel. Bahal said he got used to flying early in his import-export career, when he traveled twice monthly from the U.S. to London and Korea and India, among other places. About 10 years ago, he began intently focusing on traveling  inspired by news headlines, or frequent trips to his public library.

He will sometimes go on trips with Pam, or with a group or a friend. But he prefers to travel alone, taking solitary, early morning walks on the streets of wherever he has landed.

Arvi Bahal holds a pilots license and flew his own single-engine plane until he sold it some years back. He has taken helicopter piloting classes. (Photo courtesy of Arvi Bahal)

As a Sikh who wears traditional garb and a turban, he often attracts attention. Some ask him why he wears a turban. He answers that he, too, has love for his culture and religion.

Bahal has become so adept at global travel he can research his next destinations and plan trips within a matter of days. He needs no travel agent.

I do a lot of research and reading, but I do like an element of surprise when I travel, he says.

Bahal takes a long pause when asked what there is left for him to do and see. Perhaps wing walking in Washington State. The activity requires a participant to move along the wings of a plane while its aloft.

Still, his trip into space may be the most thrilling yet. It will last four hours from takeoff to landing. Passengers are promised eight minutes of weightlessness. That excursion exemplifies his urge for new frontiers.

When you go to space, there are no borders, Bahal says.
A wrong-way driver was arrested Saturday night after police say he caused multiple crashes on Route 3.

At 10:25 p.m., Massachusetts State Police received multiple calls about a car driving south on the northbound side of the road in Weymouth, which had caused numerous accidents, according to a press release. State and local police began looking for the driver.

At some point, police say, the suspect got back on Route 3 in the correct direction, then turned around and began again driving south on the northbound side.

After multiple crashes with oncoming track, the suspect crashed into the guardrail on the median in Weymouth, police said. Multiple witnesses saw a man walking outside the vehicle holding a knife.

When police arrived, they attempted but failed to use their taser on the suspect, who then threw the knife toward the wood line, police said. The suspect was then arrested.

Two lanes of Route 3 were closed for a period of time, with only the breakdown lane open, because of the crashes.

The suspect was brought to South Shore Hospital for a psychiatric evaluation, police said. His identity and any charges have not been publicly released.
To mark the launch of daily direct flights from London Gatwick Airport to Mauritius, Air Mauritius in association with the Mauritius Tourism Promotion Authority organised a Networking Gala Evening at the JW Marriott Grosvenor House, in London on 22 June 2023.

Air Mauritius, the flagship carrier of Mauritius, will be marking their 50 year anniversary of operations in the UK with a momentous move from its previous home at London Heathrow Airport to London Gatwick Airport on 29 October 2023.

The evening was graced by the presence of his Excellency Mr Girish Nunkoo, High Commissioner of the Republic of Mauritius, Mr. Laurent Recoura, Chief Commercial Officer of Air Mauritius, Mr. Arvind Bundhun, Director of the Mauritius Tourism Promotion Authority and other dignitaries from the Travel Trade and top media persons.

Mr. Laurent Recoura, Chief Commercial Officer of Air Mauritius stated,

We are excited for this new chapter in our journey to continue delivering the best service to our esteemed UK visitors. It has been a pleasure to see the UK market grow over the years and the increased access to the destination will enable that growth to continue.

Arvind Bundhun, Director of the Mauritius Tourism Promotion Authority mentioned,

This has been a long-awaited moment and I am confident that this will improve connectivity for the UK market. This is the first direct daily flight from the UK which will increase accessibility as well as provide stability and confidence for the trade and consumers directly to book Mauritius. Our people are the foundation of the tourism industry, and we would like to pay tribute to them for keeping the Mauritian flag high.

H.E Mr. Girish Nunkoo, High Commissioner of the Republic of Mauritius, reiterated the key attributes of the destination, which for years has been a preferred long-haul destination for British holidaymakers. The island is a multi-faceted holiday destination that offers unique experiences for all.

It is to be noted that this year the MTPA launched a B2C campaign titled Feel our island energy which highlights the immersive experiences unique to Mauritius, and lays emphasis on our population endowed with a legendary sense of hospitality.

From January to June, we welcomed 54,231 tourists representing an increase of 9% v/s 2019. Air Mauritius will operate daily flights between London and Mauritius as per the following schedules:

MK 042 MRU-LGW Monday to Sunday 23h05 07h00 *

MK 053 LGW-MRU Monday to Sunday 15h55 07H15 **

The Gala event ended with an exciting lucky draw, where Air Mauritius offered multiple return tickets, and hotels offered stay vouchers to the winners, in their endeavour to encourage other trade partners to make efforts to increase sales of the destination as a leisure, MICE, and wedding destination.
There are millions of people across the globe suffering from or have died due to vaccine-preventable diseases. We generally assume that the vaccinations we receive as children are enough to safeguard us throughout life. Contrary to this belief, our need for immunization does not stop with childhood. A few of the reasons are given below:

Many adults have never been administered vaccines during childhood.

Some of the vaccines available now were not available a few years ago.

It is also established that immunity reduces as a person grows old.

Childhood immunization is done very early and some of its effects are likely to wear-off, leaving individuals at risk for newer and different diseases. Regardless of age, we need immunization against a whole gamut of vaccine-preventable diseases to maintain good health and lead a disease-free life.

Each country has its own guidelines regarding immunization in adults. An adults need for immunization is very specific and are determined by certain factors. These include the following:

Age

Health condition

Previous immunization status

Lifestyle

Occupation

Areas / locations where travel is to be undertaken

Tetanus, Diphtheria and Whooping Cough: Tetanus is a serious infection that causes painful tightening of muscles. The disease is commonly known as lockjaw, where a person is unable to open the mouth, swallow or breathe. It is caused by the bacterium Clostridium tetani, which produces a toxin that affects the brain and nervous system, leading to stiffness of the muscles. It is transmitted through cuts or wounds.

Diphtheria is a serious respiratory infection caused by the bacterium Corynebacterium diphtheriae. The infection generally affects the mucous membranes of the nose and throat.

Whooping cough or pertussis is an extremely contagious respiratory tract infection that is caused by the bacterium Bordetella pertussis. Living with whooping cough can be traumatic as it involves periods of fitful coughing, difficulty in breathing, choking and difficulty in doing everyday chores. The condition can be quite severe for both babies and adults.

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Tetanus, diphtheria and whooping cough infections can be prevented by administering the vaccine Tdap to an adult who has not been administered vaccines for these conditions earlier. Tdap is commercially available as Adacel (Sanofi) and Boostrix (GlaxoSmithKline). The CDC recommends the Tdap vaccine once in individuals who have not received the vaccine beyond the age of 11 years. The primary series should be 3 doses of Td [commercially available as Tenivac (Sanofi)] given at least 1 month apart; of this, one dose should be replaced by Tdap. Subsequently, Td boosters should be given every 10 years.

Seasonal Influenza: Influenza, commonly known as flu, is a respiratory viral infection characterized by chills, runny nose, headache, body pain, fatigue and fever. It is caused by the viruses Influenza A and B. It is mostly seasonal and can cause complications especially in the elderly. All adults can be protected against the flu virus by taking the flu vaccine. Immunization can be carried out either with a trivalent inactivated vaccine (TIV) or a live-attenuated influenza vaccine (LAIV). Both LAIV and TIV contain strains of influenza viruses that are antigenically equivalent to the annually circulating strains as per the World Health Organization (WHO) recommendations. Of the two types of influenza vaccines discussed above, your health care provider will decide on the correct one that you should take.

Influenza vaccines are available commercially as Fluarix Quadrivalent (GlaxoSmithKline) and Fluzone Quadrivalent (Sanofi Pasteur). Annual vaccination against influenza is recommended for adults wanting to reduce the risk of coming down with the flu or of transmitting it to others. Moreover, for adults who are either at high risk of complications arising from flu, or are close contacts of persons at higher risk, should also be vaccinated. The vaccine has to be repeated every year.

Chickenpox: Chickenpox, also known as varicella, is a highly contagious viral infection, which causes an itchy, blister-like rash on the skin. It is caused by the varicella zoster virus (VZV). The infection can be more severe in adults than in children. Chickenpox can be prevented by vaccination. The varicella vaccine is a live-attenuated vaccine, which is commercially available as Varivax (Merck). The chickenpox vaccine is a two-dose vaccine that is administered to adults who have not received it earlier or who have not suffered from the infection during their childhood.

Shingles: Shingles, also known as herpes zoster, is an infection characterized by skin rashes, headaches, chills, and fever and is brought about by the same virus which causes chickenpox. Shingles can cause loss of eye sight if the virus attacks the eye. Herpes zoster vaccine is available commercially as Zostavax (Merck) and is licensed by the US Food and Drug Administration (USFDA) for all adults, 60 years and older. People with a past episode of herpes zoster also can receive the vaccine to help prevent future occurrences of the disease.

Meningococcal Disease: Bacterial meningitis is caused by the meningococcus, Neisseria meningitidis. The pathogen causes infection of the brain and spinal cord, which can be prevented in adults through meningococcal vaccination. The vaccine may be administered to adults who are at high risk for the infection. Currently, there are three meningococcal vaccines that are available.

Meningococcal Conjugate Vaccines: These include Menactra  (Sanofi Pasteur), Menveo  (GlaxoSmithKline) and MenHibrix  (GlaxoSmithKline).

These include Menactra (Sanofi Pasteur), Menveo (GlaxoSmithKline) and MenHibrix (GlaxoSmithKline). Meningococcal Polysaccharide Vaccine: This is available commercially as Menomune  (Sanofi Pasteur). However, this vaccine has been discontinued from February, 2017.

This is available commercially as Menomune (Sanofi Pasteur). However, this vaccine has been discontinued from February, 2017. Serogroup B Meningococcal Vaccines: These are available commercially as Bexsero (GlaxoSmithKline) and Trumenba (Pfizer).

Hepatitis A and B: Hepatitis is a condition involving inflammation of the liver. It is brought about by Hepatitis A and B viruses (HAV and HBV). Hepatitis A is spread through food contamination while hepatitis B is spread most commonly from mother to child at birth (perinatal transmission), and through contact with infected blood products, unsafe sex with infected partner(s), and using infected needles in healthcare settings and among drug users. The symptoms of hepatitis include fever, fatigue, loss of appetite and nausea, abdominal discomfort, dark urine, and yellowing of the skin and the white of the eyes. Adults may be protected against these viral hepatitis infections by being vaccinated against Hepatitis A and B viruses if they did not receive the vaccines as children.

Currently, two vaccines are available for Hepatitis A. These include Havrix (GlaxoSmithKline) and Vaqta (Merck), both of which are two-dose vaccines. The first dose is followed by the second dose between 6-18 months.

Similarly, there are two hepatitis B vaccines that are currently available, both of which are made by recombinant DNA technology or Genetic Engineering. Both vaccines are based on the recombinant hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg or Australia antigen) protein, which is commercially called Recombivax HB (Merck) and Engerix-B (GlaxoSmithKline). These are three-dose vaccines and are administered at 0, 1 and 6 months.

Rubella: Rubella is also known as German measles. The infection is caused by the rubella virus and is generally a mild infection. The infection occurs most often in children and young adults and is characterized by fever, sore throat, rash, headache, and red, itchy eyes. In pregnant women, rubella infection can cause fetal death or congenital defects in their children. It can be prevented with the help of the Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR) vaccine, which is commercially available as M-M-R II (Merck). The CDC recommends that adults born in 1957 or later without acceptable evidence of immunity to measles, mumps, or rubella should receive 1 dose of the MMR vaccine unless they have a medical contraindication to the vaccine, e.g., pregnancy or severe immunodeficiency.

Pneumococcal Disease: Pneumococcal infections are caused by the bacterium Streptococcus pneumoniae that is responsible for pneumonia, sinus infections, ear infections, meningitis and sepsis. Adults who have lower immunity are more prone to these infections, which can be prevented through pneumococcal vaccinations. There are two vaccines currently available for pneumococcal disease  the 23-valent pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine (PPV) and the 13-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV-13).

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PPV contains purified capsular polysaccharide from 23 serotypes of S. pneumoniae and is recommended for children above 5 years, adolescents and adults. PPV is used as a single-dose vaccine for immunizing adults and is safe, effective and well-tolerated. It is available commercially as Pneumovax 23 (Merck). The PCV-13 is available commercially as Prevnar 13 (Wyeth Pharmaceuticals Inc.) and is recommended exclusively for infants and children below 5 years.

HPV Infections: The human papillomavirus (HPV) causes cervical cancer in females and genital warts in both males and females, which can be prevented by vaccination. There are currently two safe and effective vaccines available for HPV. These are the 9-valent Gardasil9 (Merck) and the bivalent Cervarix (GlaxoSmithKline). As per CDC recommendations, females should be vaccinated with three-doses in the age-group 19-26 years. Males should be vaccinated with three-doses in the age-group 19-21 years.

Japanese Encephalitis: Japanese encephalitis (JE), also known as brain fever, is caused by the Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV) and is spread by the bite of Culex mosquitoes. There are currently three JE vaccines available in India:

JENVAC  : This vaccine is manufactured by Bharat Biotech International Ltd., a Hyderabad based company. It is an inactivated (killed) Vero-cell derived vaccine prepared from an Indian strain of JEV. It is a two-dose vaccine.

This vaccine is manufactured by Bharat Biotech International Ltd., a Hyderabad based company. It is an inactivated (killed) Vero-cell derived vaccine prepared from an Indian strain of JEV. It is a two-dose vaccine. JEEV  : This vaccine is manufactured by Biological E Ltd., based in Hyderabad. It is a purified inactivated (killed) vaccine that uses the SA 14-14-2 strain of JEV. It is a two-dose vaccine.

This vaccine is manufactured by Biological E Ltd., based in Hyderabad. It is a purified inactivated (killed) vaccine that uses the SA 14-14-2 strain of JEV. It is a two-dose vaccine. SA 14-14-2: This vaccine is manufactured by the Chengdu Institute of Biological Products, China. It is a live-attenuated, single-dose vaccine. It is imported by India and used exclusively for mass vaccination campaigns by the Government of India. It is not available commercially.

Although JE vaccines are recommended for children, as per new guidelines, adults in JE endemic areas who are susceptible to JE infection, as well as people traveling to JE endemic regions can also be vaccinated.

Cholera: Cholera is a severe diarrheal disease caused by the bacterium Vibrio cholerae. The disease causes profuse watery stool (called rice water stool), leading to rapid dehydration, and if not treated promptly can cause death within a matter of hours. An oral cholera vaccine is available and is commercially known as Shanchol (Sanofi). Shanchol is indicated for active immunization against Vibrio cholerae. The vaccine can be administered to anyone above the age of 1 year.

Typhoid: Typhoid fever, also known as enteric fever, is caused by the bacterium Salmonella typhi, a highly virulent and invasive enteric pathogen. It is a major cause of morbidity and death in children and adults with a global annual incidence of 22 million cases and 200,000 deaths. Typhoid continues to be a major public health problem in developing countries like India. Typhoid can be prevented by vaccination. Three typhoid vaccines are commercially available. These include Typherix (GlaxoSmithKline), Typbar (Bharat Biotech), and Typhim Vi (Sanofi Pasteur). These are recommended for active immunization of adults and children 2 years of age and older for protection against Salmonella typhi infection.

New Vaccines

There are a couple of new vaccines that are yet to be available commercially. When these become available, recommendations will be made for adult immunization. These vaccines are briefly highlighted below:

Malaria Vaccine: Malarial disease is caused by the Plasmodium parasite that is transmitted to people through the bites of infected female Anopheles mosquitoes. Symptoms include fever, headache, and chills. The RTS,S is the most advanced malaria vaccine till date. It has been developed by PATH Malaria Vaccine Initiative (MVI) and GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) with support from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation (BMGF). It is a recombinant vaccine, which consists of the P. falciparum circumsporozoite protein (CSP) from the pre-erythrocytic stage of the malaria parasite life-cycle. WHO has recommended a large-scale pilot implementation of RTS,S among children aged 5 to 17 months in 35 settings of moderate-to-high transmission in sub-Saharan Africa.

Dengue Vaccine: Dengue is a mosquito (Aedes aegypti)-borne viral infection characterized by high fever, severe headache, pain behind the eyes, muscle and joint pains, nausea, vomiting, swollen glands or rash. A recombinant dengue vaccine called Dengvaxia (CYD-TVD), developed by Sanofi Pasteur has been extensively evaluated in more than 40,000 individuals in 15 different countries, including India. The Sanofi vaccine is recommended by WHO for use in individuals aged between 9 and 45 years in areas of the world where dengue is prevalent. The vaccine has been evaluated in a 3-dose schedule (0/6/12 months) in Phase III clinical trials and was first registered in Mexico in December 2015 and first commercially available in 2016 in the Philippines and Indonesia. The vaccine has since been adopted in 7 other dengue-endemic countries around the globe, namely, Brazil, Paraguay, El Salvador, Costa Rica, Peru, Guatemala, and Singapore, where more than 500,000 people have already been vaccinated with over 1.5 million doses distributed so far. The vaccine is yet to be available in India.

A consultation with a doctor will help you decide on the vaccinations that are required. If you are at risk for a disease because of your occupation or if you are traveling to a region that is endemic for a particular infectious disease, you may need to talk to your doctor about it and get vaccinated accordingly.

As responsible adults, it is our responsibility to live a healthy life and to make sure that our family and loved ones are disease-free. Let us make it our duty to remind our near and dear ones, our colleagues and others in our community about the need to protect ourselves by getting vaccinated.
Raynauds (pronounced Ray-Nohz) is a rare disorder of the blood vessels making some parts of the body, especially the fingers and toes, to become numb and cold in response to cold temperature or stress. Raynauds is named after the French physician, Maurice Raynaud who first recognized this disease.

In this condition, the small arteries supplying blood to the skin undergo spasm and restrict blood flow to the affected parts like the fingers, toes, nose or ears. During the spasm, the affected area turns white and then blue. The attack is usually painful and followed by some swelling and redness. Attacks usually last from a few minutes to a few hours. In severe cases, the attacks can lead to ulcerations and even gangrene.

Primary Raynauds is not associated with any other disorder, and therefore has no underlying cause.

Secondary Raynauds has close connections to autoimmune disorders such as:

Scleroderma  or systemic sclerosis which is an autoimmune connective tissue disorder causing hardening of the skin

Lupus  is also a chronic, autoimmune disease which attacks the connective tissues including the skin

Rheumatoid arthritis  is an autoimmune condition where the joints are chronically inflamed.

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Other conditions that may also be associated with secondary Raynauds include:

Viral infections like hepatitis B and hepatitis C

Blood cancers like lymphoma and multiple myeloma

Intake of medications like sumatriptan and beta blockers, or illegal drugs like cocaine and amphetamine

The use of vibrating tools, or injury to the hands or feet

Smoking

Diseases affecting arteries like atherosclerosis and Beugers disease

Carpal tunnel syndrome, a condition that compresses the nerve supplying to the hand at the wrist.

People with Raynauds usually experience attacks due to cold temperatures, anxiety or emotional stress.

Raynauds affects fingers, toes, nose, ears and lips. An attack can last from a few minutes to a few hours.

During the attack, the arteries narrow thereby reducing the blood flow to the affected areas. This leads to symptoms like:

Numbness with acute pain or throbbing in the affected parts

Change in color from pale to white to blue

Redness, soreness, tingling and burning as the blood flow returns

In the case of secondary Raynauds, there is a risk of skin sores which can consequently lead to ulcers or gangrene. These need to be watched and the sores should be covered with appropriate dressing. The patient may also need oral antibiotics for infection.

While there is no single blood test or diagnostic test to determine if one has Raynauds, doctors usually do a first-in-line clinical examination like examining the nail fold (skin at the base of the fingernail) under a microscope. If he/she finds blood vessels enlarged or deformed, this may be a sign of Raynauds.

The doctor will also find clues in your medical history and other underlying diseases you might have had. If the doctor suspects that you have secondary Raynauds due to autoimmune or connective tissue disorders, he/she may recommend the following tests:

ANA (Antinuclear antibodies test)  The presence of antinuclear antibodies indicates that the person is suffering from an autoimmune or other connective tissue disorders.

ESR (Erythrocyte sedimentation rate)  ESR determines the rate at which the red blood cells settle at the bottom of the tube. An abnormal ESR could indicate the presence of an autoimmune disorder.

CBC - A complete blood count helps to rule out underlying infections.

Raynauds can be treated at home with a few simple precautions. In some cases, you might need certain medications. Treatment should be towards preventing repeated attacks and tissue damage.

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Try the following tips to reduce the frequency of your attacks:

Make sure you keep your whole body warm. Try using gloves for your hands and socks for your feet.

Make sure to stop smoking and cut back on alcohol.

Reduce your stress levels with proper relaxation techniques like yoga and meditation.

Avoid stimulants like coffee, tea and colas.

Get regular exercise to improve your overall blood circulation.

Medications may be required in some cases. The usual medications prescribed are:

Vasodilators relax blood vessels. These may be in the form of creams applied to the fingers and toes to heal the sores. Prostaglandins may also be helpful.

relax blood vessels. These may be in the form of creams applied to the fingers and toes to heal the sores. Prostaglandins may also be helpful. Calcium channel blockers like nifedipine relax and dilate the blood vessels in the hands and feet. These usually reduce the frequency of attacks and also heal ulcers.

like nifedipine relax and dilate the blood vessels in the hands and feet. These usually reduce the frequency of attacks and also heal ulcers. Alpha blockers  Drugs like prazosin and doxazosin usually counter the action of norepinephrine, a chemical in the blood that which constricts (tightens) the blood vessels.

If you have been diagnosed with Raynauds, your doctor may inform you to stay off certain drugs like over-the-counter cold medicines and beta blockers.

The only way to prevent Raynauds is to avoid cold climes. If it is inevitable or you live in a cold climate, make sure you always keep warm. Try thermals to protect your hands and feet. Use a room heater if possible. Do not stay too long outdoors in the cold wind. Opt out of air conditioned spaces; Try an air cooler instead during summers. These simple measures can at least reduce the frequency of painful attacks.
Truncus arteriosus is a developmental defect of the heart where there is only a single artery in the heart that carries blood both to the lungs and the rest of the body instead of two separate vessels, one to the lung (pulmonary artery) and the other (aorta) to the rest of the body.

The incidence of truncus arteriosus is about 1 in 10,000 births.

The heart is a four-chambered organ consisting of two atria and two ventricles that work constantly to keep the blood circulation going. The blood circulation is described briefly below in the following steps though it is in fact a continuous process.

The impure or venous blood from all over the body returns to the right atrium (RA).

This venous blood then flows into the right ventricle (RV) via the tricuspid valve.

From the RV, the deoxygenated blood is carried into the lungs via the pulmonary artery (PA) to be purified and oxygenated.

to be purified and oxygenated. The pure oxygenated blood is emptied into the left atrium (LA) and reaches the left ventricle (LV) via the bicuspid valve.

The LV contracts to empty this blood into the major blood vessel, the aorta to be distributed to all the organs and tissues of the body.

Thus, there are two arteries in the heart, the pulmonary artery that conveys venous blood to the lungs and the aorta that distributes oxygenated blood to the entire body.

In truncus arteriosus, the only single large vessel that is present divides itself into the pulmonary and the aortic arteries.

In addition, this defect is associated with a hole in the wall between the right and the left ventricles (the 2 lower chambers), referred to as ventricular septal defect (VSD). As a result, impure blood from the right side mixes with oxygenated blood on the left side of the heart, which is then carried to the lungs and also the rest of the body via the truncus.

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Depending on the branching pattern of the pulmonary artery, truncus arteriosus is classified into the following types described by Collett /Edwards 1949.

Type 1 - Pulmonary artery branching takes place just above the valve.

Type 2 - Pulmonary arteries branching to the lungs is separate but close together directly off the truncus.

Type 3 - Pulmonary arteries branch separately and are far apart.

The exact etiology is not known. However there have been several risk factors associated with the development of this condition, which occurs in the womb during fetal development. The risk factors include the following:

Family history of congenital heart disease

German measles (rubella), a viral illness during pregnancy

Poorly controlled diabetes in the pregnant woman

Smoking and alcohol during pregnancy

Chromosomal disorders  Babies with Di Georges syndrome, velocardiofacial syndrome appear to be at increased risk of developing truncus arteriosus

Certain medications taken during pregnancy are associated with defective heart development, for example antiseizure drugs and Ibuprofen

In truncus arteriosus there is too much blood going into the lungs than would in a normal newborn. In addition, when there is associated VSD as is often the case, there is mixing of pure and impure blood. Signs and symptoms are evident within a few days after birth and include the following:

Shortness of breath (dyspnea)

Rapid shallow breaths (tachypnea)

Bluish discoloration of skin (cyanosis)

Poor feeding

Weak cry

Failure to gain weight or thrive

Irregular heart beat

History and Physical Examination:

When the anxious parents and family members consult the pediatrician or child specialist, he will obtain a detailed history and perform a thorough physical examination, which will reveal the above signs and symptoms and raises suspicions of a heart defect.

In addition a chest examination may show the presence of abnormal heart sounds or murmurs and may also point to presence of fluid in the lungs.

He may order some blood tests and imaging to determine the cause.

Blood tests:

Testing of the babys blood (pulse oximetry, a simple bedside test) may show low levels of oxygen saturation responsible for the breathlessness and bluish discoloration of skin and mucous membranes.

Imaging tests:

Chest x-ray  A chest x-ray may show evidence of fluid accumulation in the lungs and outline the size of the heart.

 A chest x-ray may show evidence of fluid accumulation in the lungs and outline the size of the heart. Echocardiogram  An echocardiogram is essentially an ultrasound scan of the heart and reveals the activity of the heart as an image.

 An echocardiogram is essentially an ultrasound scan of the heart and reveals the activity of the heart as an image. The presence of a single large vessel leading from the heart, the defect in the wall between the left and right ventricles, and other abnormalities in the valve between the large vessel and the ventricles are seen. The amount of blood flowing into the lungs and the risk for developing high blood pressure in the pulmonary vessels (pulmonary hypertension) can also be determined.

CT and MRI Heart  These investigations give more detailed information and a clearer picture of the heart compared to a plain chest x-ray.

 These investigations give more detailed information and a clearer picture of the heart compared to a plain chest x-ray. Cardiac catheterization  This is procedure that involves the introduction of a thin flexible tube into the heart through a blood vessel in the groin and injecting a contrast agent. Detailed imaging of the heart vasculature is obtained.

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Surgery is the definitive treatment, usually performed in the neonatal period (1-2 weeks after birth).

Medications:

Before the surgery is performed, the child may receive medications such as diuretics and digoxin to improve heart and lung function. Digoxin improves the strength of heart muscle contractions, and enables it to pump more efficiently. Diuretics help remove extra fluid from the lungs and body, which often occurs in cases of heart failure.

Surgery:

During the surgery, the ventricular septal defect (hole in the wall between the right and left ventricles) is closed with a patch.

The upper part of the pulmonary artery is separated from the single common artery (truncus arteriosus) and connected with the right ventricle using a tube or a conduit.

The single large vessel is then reconstructed to create a new aorta. The surgeon might also repair the truncal valve, if necessary.

Complications associated with truncus arteriosus include the following:

Pulmonary hypertension  This occurs due to increased blood flow in the lungs, which causes the pulmonary vessels to reflexly constrict causing raised pressure in the pulmonary circulation.

Heart enlargement (cardiomegaly)  The presence of pulmonary hypertension, and increased blood flow through the heart makes the heart pump harder causing enlargement and thickening of its walls.

(cardiomegaly)  The presence of pulmonary hypertension, and increased blood flow through the heart makes the heart pump harder causing enlargement and thickening of its walls. Heart failure  This can result due to reduced oxygen supply to the heart and due to increased workload on the heart.

 This can result due to reduced oxygen supply to the heart and due to increased workload on the heart. Leaky heart valves (regurgitation).

(regurgitation). Arrhythmias (irregular heart beat).

As mentioned previously, certain risk factors are associated with the development of congenital heart defects. These can be addressed to reduce or prevent the development of heart defects.
Doctors Louis Wolff, Sir John Parkinson, and Paul Dudley White, first described the cardiac syndrome in 1930 when they observed changes in a persons heart rate. In a normal heart, electrical conduction of the heartbeat that travels from the atrium to the ventricle (the upper and lower chambers of the heart, respectively) passes through the atrioventricular node (AVN) . When the electrical conduction passes through the AV node to the ventricle, the number of electrical signals are controlled and the next transmission (the refractory period) is delayed giving the cells of the ventricle time to get ready for the next impulse. This feature is absent in WPW patients.

In the WPW syndrome, the electrical connection passes through another accessory pathway called the bundle of Kent between the atrium and the ventricle of the heart. This pathway does not cut down the electrical activity nor does it delay the electrical transmission going to the ventricles. This leads to extremely rapid heartbeats.

Although WPW syndrome is present at birth, the symptoms may appear only in adulthood between the ages of 20 and 40. The WPW syndrome affects 1 to 3 individuals out of 1000. Mortality due to the WPW syndrome affects 4% of the affected population.

The most common type of irregular heartbeat caused in the WPW syndrome is known as paroxysmal supraventricular arrhythmia.

Not much is known on how the extra electrical connection (accessory pathway) develops in the heart. In hereditary WPW, scientists have attributed a region on chromosome 7 as responsible for the syndrome, and they have also identified a gene responsible for the syndrome. However, the association between the gene and the pathophysiology of the condition is still not clear.

The accessory pathway bypasses the standard AVN that is the standard route for electrical conduction of the heart rate. There are 5 types of accessory pathways between the atrium and ventricle.

There are risk factors for sudden death associated with WPW syndrome. They are:

Ebstein anomaly

Numerous accessory pathways

Very short pre-excitation periods in the ventricle

Hereditary WPW syndrome

History of tachycardia (rapid heart rate)

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The WPW syndrome is also associated with other congenital conditions, such as Ebstein anomaly. It is also observed as part of other genetic conditions, such as Pompe disease, tuberous sclerosis complex, Danon disease, and hypokalemic periodic paralysis.

Not everyone exhibits the same symptoms. There are some who experience rapid heart beats once or twice a week, and others experience only a few instances of tachycardia. There are those who experience no symptoms. The following characterize the symptoms of WPW syndrome:

Palpitations (pounding or fluttering sensation in the chest)

Fainting (syncope)

Dizziness

Shortness of breath

Chest pain

Feeling light in the head

Diagnosing WPW patients is based on the presence of tachyarrhythmias and pre-excitation. Men are more frequently diagnosed compared to women. The gender distinction is not observed in children.

Electrocardiogram (ECG) or a continuous- or person-triggered ambulatory (portable) ECG monitoring e.g. a Holter monitor may help diagnose and distinguish between WPW alone and WPW with AF.

A normal heart rate for an adult ranges between 60 to100 beats per minute while in infants and children it is less than 150 beats per minute. During an episode of tachycardia, the heart rate is more than 100 beats per minute.

Electrophysiologic (EPS) study that uses catheters to assess the heart can help to detect the accessory pathway. A negative EPS indicates low risk of getting future ventricular fibrillation (VF  an extremely rapid heartbeat causing death), atrioventricular re-entrant tachycardia (AVRT), or pre-excited atrial fibrillation (AF)

Combined diagnosis and treatment is a good strategy to manage the condition. The goal in treating WPW syndrome is to extend the refractory period of the accessory pathway (AP) compared with that of the traditional AVN. This gives the ventricle more time to transmit the next electrical impulse through the AP. In this way, the heart rate is stabilized.

Radiofrequency (RF) catheter ablation is used to treat Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome combined with AF. This procedure helps to destroy the tissue that is causing the rapid heartbeat. The procedure has an 85% to 95% success rate. However, RF ablation leads to complications, such as sudden death, stroke, cardiac surgery, and myocardial infarction.

Open heart surgery is an effective treatment for WPW but is performed only in the case of a heart surgery for an associated condition.

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Medications:

There are 4 drugs that are used to treat WPW:

Flecainide increases the interval between heartbeats as it blocks the sodium channels in the heart, which conduct electrical potential. Tachyarrhythmia is controlled. However, Flecainide negatively affects the contractility of the ventricular muscles. Hence, this drug cannot be prescribed to those who have any structural defects in their heart along with WPW syndrome.

IV procainamide (17 mg/kg) is used in the chemical cardioversion (shock) of stable patients with WPW.

(17 mg/kg) is used in the chemical cardioversion (shock) of stable patients with WPW. Amiodarone blocks potassium channels in the heart muscle and prolongs the transmission of electrical impulses. The drug is effective in patients who are not experiencing pre-excitation in the heart. In the presence of existing pre-excitation, the drug accelerates the heart rate resulting in VF.

blocks potassium channels in the heart muscle and prolongs the transmission of electrical impulses. The drug is effective in patients who are not experiencing pre-excitation in the heart. In the presence of existing pre-excitation, the drug accelerates the heart rate resulting in VF. Ibutilide is a drug that may be used but has many side effects.

Electrical cardioversion (shock) can be used to immediately treat patients with WPW and AF, who are unstable.

Vagal maneuvers are postures that slow the heart rate by affecting the vagus nerve, such as putting an ice pack on the face or bending down while coughing.

Patients with WPW and AF should not be treated with drugs that prolong electrical conduction through the AVN. This will only accelerate electrical conduction through the AP and result in degeneration to VF.

Patients should avoid alcohol or exercise that trigger the rapid heartbeat.
Health is a Human Right. The affordability and accessibility of health insurance have to be ensured. Higher incomed population can access and afford medical care, however, for the below poverty population medical care is neither accessible nor affordable. The Central Government launched the national health insurance schemes to provide healthcare support to all Indian citizens from private sectors, to government staff and specifically for the below poverty line people such as cobblers, fisheries and such occupations.

The list of national health insurance schemes by the central government are as follows:

Rashtriya Swasthiya Bima Yojana (RSBY)

Employment State Insurance Scheme (ESIS)

Central Government Health Scheme (CGHS)

Aam Aadmi Bima Yojana (AABY)

Janashree Bima Yojana (JBY)

Universal Health Insurance Scheme (UHIS)

Ministry of Labour and Employment launched the RSBY to provide health insurance for the below poverty line (BPL) population. BPL families under RSBY will be benefited with hospitalization coverage of Rs.30,000/- for most diseases that require hospital admission. The benefits of RSBY are: no age limit and no pre-existing conditions which are covered from day one. This scheme covers five members of a family, which include the head of the family, spouse and three dependents. There is a registration fee of Rs.30/- and the payment to the insurers will be paid by the central and state government.

Comparing RSBY with other schemes, RSBY is unique and provides some unique features mentioned below:

Empowers the beneficiaries by giving a choice between public and private hospitals.

Inclusion of intermediaries such as Non Governmental Organizations (NGOs) and Micro Financial Institutions (MFIs) to assist BPL households.

Each family pays a maximum of Rs.750/-, per year to access quality healthcare to the BPL.

Biometric enabled smart cards and key management systems make RSBY a safe and foolproof scheme.

The smart card can be used by the beneficiary at any of the RSBY enlisted hospitals across India.

Cashless and paperless transactions with the beneficiarys smart card and fingerprint verification are used to approve cashless transactions.

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Employment State Insurance Scheme (ESIS) provides socio-economic protection to the working population and their dependents. It is regarded as a multidimensional social security system. This scheme covers various cash benefits like physical distress, temporary or permanent disablement. Monthly pension called dependents benefit is also available for beneficiaries who die due to injuries or accidental deaths during their employment term time. The available coverage limit is Rs.15,000/- per month.

There is also a coverage applicability for this scheme. It covers non-seasonal factories with 10 or more employees. It also includes shops, hotels, cinemas, newspaper establishments and road-motor transport establishments hiring 20 or more employees. Private medical and educational establishments in specific states/union territories recruiting 20 or more employees are covered under this scheme. ESIS is available in all states except Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur and Mizoram. It is only available in the Union Territories of Delhi and Chandigarh. The government has plans to implement this scheme in other Union Territories and states, where ESIS is unavailable.

The central government first initiated the Central Government Health Insurance Scheme (CGHS) in 1954 at New Delhi. This scheme is precisely tailored to provide comprehensive health care support to central government employees and pensioners including their dependents living in cities that cover CGHS. This central government scheme is now active in the cities of Allahabad, Ahmedabad, Bangalore, Bhubhaneshwar, Bhopal, Chandigarh, Chennai, Delhi, Dehradun, Guwahati, Hyderabad, Jaipur, Jabalpur, Kanpur, Kolkatta, Lucknow, Meerut, Mumbai, Nagpur, Patna, Pune, Ranchi, Shillong, Trivandrum and Jammu. Wellness centers/polyclinics offer medical facilities under Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha, Homeopathic (AYUSH) systems. This scheme also consists of components like dispensary services-domiciliary care, hospitalization and health education to beneficiaries.

Aam aadmi bima yojana launched on 2nd October 2017 is a social security scheme for people living in rural households. This scheme either covers the head or the earning member of the family within the age group of 18 to 59 years. The central and state government shares a premium of Rs.200/- annually. A premium of Rs.30,000/- is paid for natural deaths, Rs.75,000/- for death due to accidents and Rs.35,000 for partial permanent disability due to accidents.

The central government has set a separate fund called Aam Aadmi Bima Yojana Premium Fund to pay its contribution, and LIC maintains the fund resources.

This scheme was introduced on 10th August 2000 to yield protection to below poverty or marginally above poverty line people. JBY replaced two insurance schemes such as Social Security Group Insurance Scheme (SSGIS) and Rural Group Life Insurance Scheme (RGLIS).

NO OCCUPATION NO OCCUPATION 1 Beedi workers 24 Hilly area woman 2 Brick kiln workers 25 Foodstuffs products like khandsari/sugar 3 Carpenters 26 Textile 4 Cobblers 27 Manufacture of food products 5 Fisherman 28 Manufacture of paper products 6 Hamals 29 Manufacture of leather products 7 Handicraft artisans 30 Printing 8 Handloom weavers 31 Rubber and coal products 9 Handloom and Khadi workers 32 Chemical products like candle manufacture 10 Lady Tailors 33 Mineral products like earthen clay toys 11 Leather tannery workers 34 Agriculturists 12 Pappad workers attached to SEWA 35 Transport drivers association 13 Physically handicapped self employed persons 36 Transport karmacharis 14 Primary milk producers 37 Rural poor 15 Rickshaw pullers/ Auto drivers 38 Construction workers 16 Safai karmacharis 39 Fire crackers workers 17 Salt growers 40 Coconut processors 18 Tendu leaf collectors 41 Anganwadi workers/ Helpers 19 Scheme for urban poor 42 Kotwal 20 Forest workers 43 Plantation workers 21 Sericulture 44 Woman associated with SHG 22 Toddy tappers 45 Sheep breeders 23 Power loom workers

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People between the age group of 18 to 59 years and members of the above mentioned occupational groups are eligible for this scheme. Since 2013, Aam Aadmi Bima Yojana and Janashree Bima Yojana are incorporated into one scheme as Aam Aadmi Bima Yojana"

Universal health insurance scheme is implemented by four public general health insurance companies like LIC, etc,. UHIS aims to focus on improving healthcare access for low-income families. This scheme has been revamped to meet the needs of below poverty line (BPL) families. It includes individuals, families and groups. The scheme price ranges from Rs.100/- to Rs.200/- for an individual, Rs.300/- for a family of five and Rs.400/- for a family of seven. Regardless of the premium, there are no reductions in benefits.

The UHIS covers a reimbursement of Rs.30,000 for medical expenses during hospitalization floated among the entire family and Rs.25,000/- death cover due to an accident of the earning family head. A compensation of Rs.50/- per day is paid to a person with job loss for maximum up to 15 days.
Cystoscopy refers to the process of viewing a persons urinary passage and bladder through an instrument introduced through their urinary passage. The instrument which is used for this purpose is called a cystoscope .

Cystoscopy is an endoscopic procedure i.e. there is no need for cutting or removal of any tissue. It is not an open surgery; so no scars are left behind on your body.

The cystoscope is provided with lenses which allow the doctor to see the inner surface of the urethra (the tube which carries the urine from inside the body to the outside) and the urinary bladder (the organ which is used to store the urine). The cystoscope is as thick as a pencil and it has an opening at the end of the tube for the light.

A cystoscope may be rigid or flexible. A flexible cystoscope has flexible fiber optics which are used to transmit light from one end of the tube to the other. A cystoscope also has channels through which other small instruments can be introduced and used for specific purposes, for e.g. taking a biopsy.

A flexible cystoscope is carried out with regional or General Anesthesia and sometimes local anesthesia.

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When you have a urinary problem, your doctor may ask you to get a cystoscopy done to rule out abnormalities in the bladder or urethra. It can be done with local anesthesia with minimal discomfort or it may be done using other forms of anesthesia.

The following conditions may require a cystoscopy to be done:

Repeated attacks of urinary tract infection.

The presence of blood in the urine (hematuria).

Involuntary leakage of urine from the urethra (incontinence).

Any abnormalities in passing urine - either in starting and / or completing urination, urgency in urination or not being able to empty the bladder fully.

Painful urination not responding to conservative management.

Blockage of urine due to enlargement of the prostate or narrowing of the urethra.

Stones in the urethra or the urinary bladder.

Any unusual growth in the urinary tract seen radiologically.

The nurse or technician who is responsible for taking care of the patient in the ward will carry out certain instructions like cleaning the area around the urethral opening, administrating a local anesthetic if it is a flexible procedure and giving other test injections.

The patient might be given specific instructions about:

When and whether to drink plenty of fluids before the procedure.



When to stop oral food intake before the surgery.



Whether to give a urine sample before the procedure.

As any medical procedure, whether minor or major has some amount of risk associated with it, the patient may have to sign a consent form expressing their consent for the surgery. They should not hesitate to ask their doctor about any doubts or fear they have about the surgery. They will be made to wear a hospital gown before getting shifted to the operation theatre.

Once shifted to the operation theatre complex, the urologist will require information about their medical history, current pills being consumed and if they have any allergies to any medications.

Finally, the anesthesia doctor will do a check to see if they are fit for surgery and shift them inside the operating room.

A cystoscopy can be done in a doctors office, in an outpatient clinic or in the hospital.

A local or general anesthesia is given depending on the requirement of the situation. A local anesthesia is either an anesthetic gel around the urethral opening or an injection into the urethra. A general anesthetic is given intravenously.

is either an anesthetic gel around the urethral opening or an injection into the urethra. A is given intravenously. Women will be made to lie on their back with their knees raised and apart while men can lie down or be sitting.

The lower part of the body will be covered by clean towels. Before this, a nurse or the doctor will clean your private area with an anti-septic solution.

The doctor will gently pass the cystoscope through the urinary passage. Pelvic muscles must be relaxed to make this part of the test easier. A sterile solution (usually normal saline) will flow through the instrument to help the doctor have a better view of the urinary passage.

As the bladder gets filled, there will be some discomfort and urge to pass urine.

The linings of the urethra and the bladder are examined for abnormalities such as inflammation or a cancerous growth. In certain cases, the doctor might find something unusual like a stone or a growth in the urinary tract. In such a case, the procedure might get prolonged as the doctor will remove the stone or take a sample of the tissue for biopsy as the case may be. But in most of the cases, the entire examination will take about 1520 minutes.

are examined for abnormalities such as inflammation or a cancerous growth. In certain cases, the doctor might find something unusual like a stone or a growth in the urinary tract. In such a case, the procedure might get prolonged as the doctor will remove the stone or take a sample of the tissue for biopsy as the case may be. But in most of the cases, the entire examination will take about 1520 minutes. In some cases, the doctor may also decide to place a tube or a catheter to drain the urine from the urinary bladder for 1 or 2 days.

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Urine can be passed if needed. Temperature, blood pressure and pulse may be monitored regularly for a few hours (15 to 30 minutes).

Any burning sensation while passing urine or blood in the urine can occur after an instrument has been put into the urinary passage. It will automatically settle within 1 or 2 days after the procedure if plenty of fluids are taken ( 2 to 3.5 liters/ day, two glasses every 23 hours).

A warm bath or a damp washcloth over the urethral opening will relieve any discomfort while urinating.

Antibiotics might be given for a few days following the procedure to prevent infection.

Recovery depends on whether local or general anesthesia was given. Patients with general anesthesia will be discharged after 1 to 4 hours. Instructions will be given on rest, driving and physical activities.

In most of the cases, normal food and normal activities can resume after cystoscopy. In some cases, you might have to be admitted for a day for observation. If such is the case, you will be discharged on the next day if your doctor feels so.

A follow-up evaluation might be done that includes repeat urinalysis and a study that will evaluate the volume, speed and duration of urine released by the body.

Results might be discussed immediately or in a follow-up appointment. Any biopsies taken will be sent to the lab and results will be known later.

If the bladder has smooth walls, is of normal size, shape and position there is no cause for alarm. No blockages, growths or stones also indicate normal results.

Any signs that do not look normal could indicate bladder stones or cancer, bladder wall decompression, inflammation of the urethra, presence of polyps or cysts, irritable bladder, prostrate problems or a congenital abnormality.
KYODO NEWS - Jul 2, 2023 - 19:48 | All, Japan

A majority of Japanese universities bolstered measures against cults recruiting on campus after former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe's fatal shooting a year ago added to concerns that students could be easy targets, a Kyodo News survey shows.

Of the 50 universities that gave valid responses, 28 or 56 percent said they strengthened steps to alert students of the risk of joining cults as controversy erupted after Abe was shot dead on July 8 last year.

Tetsuya Yamagami has told investigators he killed the former leader over his link with the Unification Church, often regarded as a cult. The 42-year-old held a grudge against the church, and targeted Abe because he was a grandson of former Prime Minister Nobusuke Kishi, who helped the religious group set up in Japan.

Yamagami's mother had made huge donations to the church, pushing the family into financial and emotional distress.

With multiple answers allowed in the survey conducted in June on 65 universities with a student body of more than 10,000, 16 universities said they had put up warnings on bulletin boards and 14 said they had handed out flyers.

Among other steps were lectures being conducted to students about cults by 12 universities and an increase campus patrols by 11 universities.

Seven universities had added warnings to their guidelines to new students, and two had beefed up information sharing measures with the police.

Incoming students in particular are targeted, since they are thought to be more vulnerable as they have not yet fostered strong relationships, cult experts say.

The survey, however, found nearly 80 percent of the universities had difficulty grasping the situation, with nine saying they did not understand the full extent of the engagement of cults with students and 29 saying they were only partially aware.

Past recruitment practices by cults involved calling the students directly or pretending to be a student club. But the methods have become less visible with the use of social media.

One university said that they are unable to do anything until a student comes forward to request help.

Another university said that they "respond on the basis of consultations requested by the student, friend or guardian, and there is a limit to getting an accurate reading of the situation."

The survey also showed universities are confused on how to act for fear of treading on the freedom of religion. One university said "it is hard to ban an organization by name," while another said they could "potentially be sued if a student is a second-generation believer" of cult teachings.

Takashi Uriu, 49, who joined a Buddhist cult in 1993 for around 12 years, said that he used to recruit new students by pretending to be a university lecturer or by setting up fake student clubs.

He warned that cults are now targeting junior and high school students, and that new groups that are pushing self-help topics are rising.

"It is important that society as a whole embraces those who sense contradictions in their lives and who are deeply worried so that they are not unfortunately drawn by authoritative religions and leaders," he said.

Related coverage:

Japan marks 28 years since AUM cult's Tokyo subway sarin attack

Ex-PM Abe shooter faces additional charges as police cap off investigation

Japan warns Unification Church over murky child adoption practice
About

Fainting or syncope is characterized by transient loss of consciousness and a spontaneous recovery.

Fainting or syncope is a common symptom suffered by many adults and children. A typical fainting attack occurs suddenly with a transient loss of consciousness. The patient usually falls down, but promptly recovers completely without any treatment.

Syncope is a result of decreased blood flow to the brain. It often accompanies a change in posture. The most common cause of syncope is a vasovagal attack. Certain situations like emotional or painful situations result in stimulation of a nerve called the vagus nerve. This, in turn, slows down the heart resulting in a syncopal attack.

Syncope should be differentiated from the following:
By Peter Masheter, KYODO NEWS - Jul 2, 2023 - 10:42 | All, Japan

Amid growing security concerns over Russia's nuclear threat and North Korea's missile ambitions, a nonprofit organization in Japan has built a model nuclear shelter near Tokyo to raise awareness and encourage people to consider digging a doomsday bunker of their own.

While not yet open to the public, the underground concrete structure opened on May 10 in a parking lot opposite the Japan Nuclear Shelter Association's office in Tsukuba, Ibaraki Prefecture. It has already hosted about 40 tours by construction professionals, national and local politicians, government agencies and the media.

The association says it aims to see shelters built in Japan to established standards. Interest in its activities has exploded last year, it said, with its membership rising from just two companies to around 30 in over a year.

"We were thinking about building this even before the (Russian) invasion of Ukraine, but decided we really had to from spring last year," said director Takahiro Kawashima.

The facility is built to specifications from Switzerland, where 1960s legislation at the height of the Cold War required shelters be made available to all citizens.

The structure can withstand a blast like the 1945 atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, provided it is just under a kilometer or more from the explosion's center, according to the association.

It says the underground shelter can house a family of four adults, three children and one pet for a maximum of two weeks. While the entire space is about 48 square meters, its living area is around 25.6 square meters.

Amenities include a portable toilet, an air filtration system and a 200-millimeter-thick blast-proof door. Its foreign specifications present limitations, though, with the association saying Japanese building rules on hot water in enclosed spaces mean any shower in the unit can only run cold.

The Cabinet Office considers below-ground facilities more effective than surface ones in reducing the effects of air blasts. But a Kyodo News survey on local governments in January and February found that of 59,132 facilities designated as emergency shelters, just 2,390 of them -- or about 4 percent -- are underground.

Discussion among political figures about the construction of bunkers has accelerated in Japan as Russia's aggression in Ukraine created fears of nuclear war. Those worries were only exacerbated by the potential for conflict between China and Taiwan in the coming years.

The threat from North Korea has also ramped up after it launched missiles, including intercontinental ballistic missiles, on a record 37 occasions in 2022, in some cases prompting alerts recommending people seek shelter in some parts of Japan.

The situation has led to the establishment of a group of ruling Liberal Democratic Party lawmakers calling for the government to provide financial support for establishing shelters in municipalities that host armed forces' bases. They presented their proposals to Prime Minister Fumio Kishida in June.

But it remains unclear how much a system like the one the association is showcasing would cost if it became a national standard.

Construction of the model shelter came in at a total of around 40 million yen ($277,000) to build and outfit but the organization maintains that a more standard price would be around 20 to 30 million yen per unit, not inclusive of the land on which it is constructed.

Due to the demand for tours, Kawashima said there has not yet been an opportunity for anyone to try staying in it. "We are thinking about asking someone to try living down there for the full 14 days -- perhaps a YouTuber or someone like that," he added with a laugh.
How to use the mindat.org media viewer

Click/touch this help panel to close it.

Welcome to the mindat.org media viewer. Here is a quick guide to some of the options available to you. Different controls are available depending on the type of media being shown (photo, video, animation, 3d image)

Controls - all media types

Zoom in and out of media using your mousewheel or with a two-finger 'resize' action on a touch device.

Use the mouse or your finger to drag the image or the view area of the image around the screen.

< and > at the left and right hand side of the screen move forwards and backwards for the other images associated with the media you selected. Usually this is used for previous/next photo in a gallery, in an article or in search results. Keyboard shortcuts: use shift + the left and right arrow keys.

< and > in the bottom center are used for switching between the photos of the same specimen. Keyboard shortcuts: use the left and right arrow keys.

> in the bottom center, raises the information box giving details and further options for the media, < at the top of this box then hides it. Keyboard shortcuts: use the up and down arrow keys.

? opens this help window. Keyboard shortcuts: use the H key or the ? key.

Other keyboard shortcuts:

1 Fit image to screen 2 Fill screen with image 5 Display at full resolution < Make background darker > Make background lighter space Hide/dim titles and buttons

Scalebar

If the field of view (FOV) is specified for the photo, the scalebar appears in the left bottom corner of the viewer. The scalebar is draggable and resizeable. Drag the right edge to resize it. Double click will reset the scalebar to it's default size and position. If the scalebar is in default position, double click will make it circular.

Controls - Video

Video files have a standard set of video controls: - Reset to start, - Skip back, - Play, - Pause, - Skip forwards. Keyboard shortcuts: You can stop/start video play with the P key.

Controls - Animation (Spin Rotation)

Animation (usually 360 degree spin rotations) have their own controls: - enable spin mode. Note that while images are loading this option will not be available but will be automatically activated when the animation has loaded. Once active you can spin the image/change the animation by moving your mouse or finger on the image left/right or by pressing the [ or ] keys.

The button switches to move mode so that you can use your mouse/fingers to move the image around the screen as with other media types.

The button, or the P key will start playing the animation directly, you can interrupt this by using the mouse or finger on the image to regain manual movement control.

Controls - 3D Stereoscopic images

If a stereoscopic 3D image is opened in the viewer, the 3D button appears in the bottom right corner giving access to "3D settings" menu. The 3D images can be viewed in several ways:

- without any special equipment using cross-eyed or parallel-eyed method

- with stereoscope

- with anaglyph glasses.

- on a suitable 3D TV or monitor (passive 3D system)

For details about 3D refer to: Mindat manuals: Mindat Media Viewer: 3D

To enable/disable 3D stereo display of a compatible stereo pair image press the 3 key. If the left/right images are reversed on your display (this often happens in full-screen mode) press the 4 key to reverse them.

Controls - photo comparison mode

If a photo with activated comparison mode is opened in the viewer, the button appears in the bottom right corner giving access to "Comparison mode settings" menu.

Several layouts are supported: slider and side by-side comparison with up to 6 photos shown synchronously on the screen. On each of the compared photos a view selector is placed, e.g.: Longwave UV . It shows the name of currently selected view and allows to select a view for each placeholder.

Summary of all keyboard shortcuts
Twins infielder Royce Lewis saw his career-long injury woes continue during yesterdays game against the Orioles. The 24 year old suffered a strained left oblique while attempting to beat out a groundball. Lewis has played well in the big leagues when healthy, pairing a career 136 wRC+ in 140 plate appearances with strong defense on the left side of the infield for Minnesota. Unfortunately, staying healthy has proved to be a considerable challenge for the youngster, whos played a total of just 82 games between the major and minor leagues since the end of the 2019 campaign. Per a club announcement, Lewis is headed to the 10-day injured list, though Phil Miller of the Star Tribune notes the club is hopeful hell only require a minimum stay on the shelf.

Replacing Lewis on the roster is Jose Miranda, the Twins Opening Day third baseman. After a solid rookie season in 2022 where he hit .268/.325/.426 in 483 plate appearances, Miranda scuffled through the first 35 games of his sophomore season. A brutal .220/.275/.318 slash line in 142 plate appearances was enough for Minnesota to demote Miranda to Triple-A, where the results (including a .686 OPS in 39 games) havent been much better. That being said, the 25 year old has begun to hit better in recent weeks, with a .300/.370/.456 slash line, a 10% walk rate and a 16% strikeout rate over his last 100 plate appearances. If Miranda has successfully recaptured the offensive form he flashed during his rookie season, he should help to boost a Twins offense that ranks just 18th in MLB with a wRC+ of 98.

More from around the AL Central
The White Sox announced a series of roster moves this afternoon. The club placed right-hander Michael Kopech on the 15-day injured list with right shoulder inflammation. To fill Kopechs spot on the active roster, Chicago selected the contract of right-hander Bryan Shaw. To clear space for Shaw on the 40-man roster, infielder Romy Gonzalez was transferred to the 60-day IL.

Kopech, 27, was a first-round pick by the Red Sox in the 2014 draft and came over to the White Sox in the Chris Sale trade prior to the 2017 season. Kopech had a brief cup of coffee in the majors in 2018 that lasted four starts, but became a more permanent fixture of Chicagos pitching staff in 2021 as a member of the bullpen, where he posted a 3.50 ERA and 2.97 FIP in 69 1/3 innings. 2022 saw the right-hander move to the rotation.

Since then, Kopechs performance has been solid if unspectacular. In 205 1/3 innings of work across 41 starts, the young hurler has posted a 3.77 ERA and 4.95 FIP. Hes posted a solid 23.3% strikeout rate during that time though his 12.2% walk rate leaves something to be desired, particularly when paired with a groundball rate of just 35.6%. Still, hes provided solid stability at the back of the clubs rotation. With Kopech joining Mike Clevinger on the shelf, the Sox figure to rely on Tanner Banks and Jesse Scholtens to handle starts in the run-up to the All Star break.

As for Shaw, the veteran hurler was a second-round pick by the Diamondbacks in the 2008 draft and was a steady relief option for Arizona and Cleveland from 2011-17, with a 3.13 ERA and 3.52 FIP in 446 1/3 innings of work. In five seasons since then, Shaw has been far less effective, with a 5.23 ERA in 268 1/3 innings of work. He signed with the White Sox on a minor league deal back in April and has delivered a solid 4.03 ERA in 22 1/3 innings of work at the Triple-A level since then. Now, Shaw will join the clubs bullpen mix, covering the middle innings alongside the likes of Gregory Santos and Aaron Bummer.

Gonzalez, meanwhile, heads to the 60-day IL a few weeks after being placed on the injured list with right shoulder inflammation, a designation that will keep him out until late August at the earliest. The utility man hit a paltry .194/.208/.376 in 97 plate appearances for the Sox this season prior to his placement on the IL.
If youre looking for a paddling adventure in Northwest Lower Michigan but want something a bit more structured than noodling around a lake, its time to explore a water trail.

Water trails are the aquatic equivalent of hiking trails but made for kayaks, paddleboards and other non-motorized watercraftound to navigate lakes, rivers and other bodies of water. Designated water trails make paddling trips easy by connecting multiple access points, highlighting points of interest, and even including amenities such as restaurants, hotels and campgrounds.

According to Michigan Water Trails, a resource for Michigans 3,000 miles of water trails, Northwest Lower Michigan has five official water trails ranging in length from 14 miles to more than 100 miles, with trips suitable for beginners, intermediate and advanced paddlers.

Heres a quick guide to Northwestern Michigan water trails, with more details at michiganwatertrails.org.

The Inland Waterway: This 40-mile route traces a historic water trail along a series of interconnected rivers and lakes from Petoskey to Cheboygan, then opens into a coastal adventure along Lake Hurons shoreline to Mackinac City and the Straits. Along the way youll encounter parks, preserves, small towns, campgrounds, historic sites and more. Paddlers should be prepared to share the water with motorized boats. More details here

Bear River: For much of its 14-mile journey from Walloon Lake to Little Traverse Bay, this river meanders peacefully through wetlands before picking up the pace in Petoskeys Bear River Recreation Area, where experienced paddlers can enjoy a mile of whitewater over the steepest drop of any river in Michigans Lower Peninsula. A richly historic and culturally important waterway. More details here

The Chain of Lakes Water Trail: Stretching more than 100 miles, this trail flows along a series of interconnected lakes and rivers, including Torch Lake and Elk Lake, across scenic Charlevoix, Antrim, Kalkaska and Grand Traverse counties. Clear, helpful signage points the way as you paddle through charming towns and beautiful swaths of nature. Find maps and segments suitable for all skill levels at PaddleAntrim.com.

RELATED: Up North paddling festival invites all skill levels to explore Chain of Lakes water trail

The Lake Michigan Water Trail: This 350-mile trail covers seven counties worth of glorious golden coast. Paddle your preferred portions to access Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, dozens of parks, beaches, coastal towns, lighthouses, historic sites, vineyards, orchards and more. Find segments and more information here

Beaver Island Water Trail: Circumnavigate beautiful Beaver Island on this 42-mile trail, which offers a taste of the islands stunning natural setting and heritage. Note that due to the often unpredictable nature of Lake Michigan, this trail is geared more toward experienced paddlers; novices are encouraged to stick to the islands harbor or inland lakes, or to hire a guide. Learn more and download a map and guide here.

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KYODO NEWS - Jul 2, 2023 - 09:52 | Travel/Tourism, All, Japan

A Kyoto tourism association is selling premium tickets worth 400,000 yen ($2,770) each to view the Gion Festival, one of the largest festivals in Japan, held annually in July.

The 84 seats, mainly for foreign tourists, will be set up at an intersection in the heart of the city. Here, they can witness the captivating spectacle of traditional floats spinning 90 degrees through the power of human effort as one of the highlights of the Yamahoko parade portion of the festival on July 17.

Ticket holders can enjoy this spectacle from their seats, or legless chairs placed on a heightened platform with tatami mats and Japanese-styled sunshades, according to the Kyoto City Tourism Association.

The festival will feature more than 30 Yamahoko floats, some weighing more than 10 tons, in the parade. The ticket holders can listen to earphone-guided explanations in English or Chinese while drinking beverages and eating Kyoto cuisine, said the association.

The highest price for a paid seat had previously been 20,000 yen, according to the association.

For the newest premium seats, tickets started being sold on June 19, and several have already been sold.

"We wanted to offer a service that would add value to the experience of people from inside and outside Japan and help them understand the culture," an official of the association said, adding profit from the festival will be used to preserve the tradition.

The festival originally started in the western Japan city in 869 to pray for an epidemic to disappear. From 970 onward, it turned into an annual Shinto festival to welcome and send out gods, according to the city office.

The Yamahoko parade, specifically the float ceremony of the Gion festival, is one of the 33 festivals in Japan added to UNESCO's Intangible Cultural Heritage list in 2016.
FLINT, MI -- Flint history is up for sale.

But it may not necessarily be sold to the highest bidder.

The former Flint home of Charles Nash, former president of General Motors with large ties to the earliest days of Buick Motor Company, is for sale.

The Genesee County Land Bank hosted a showing of the historic home at 307 Mason St. on June 28, where prospective buyers had to be in attendance before making a proposal to buy, invest in, and preserve the Victorian-style, three-bedroom home that was built in 1890 in the citys Carriage Town Neighborhood.

Related: Home of Flint auto pioneer Charles Nash is for sale. Heres how to get in on the bidding

Michael Freeman, executive director of the Land Bank, said the Nash house ended up in his agencys hands after the county foreclosed on it for failure to pay property taxes. The Land Bank is highlighting the homes availability and accepting proposals from prospective buyers until 4 p.m. July 24.

Freeman said the agency wants to make sure its selling the home of a Flint auto pioneer to the right buyer.

Our priority is more about what you are going to put into it versus what we get for it ..., Freeman said. Its (an important property) that we need to ensure something good is done with.

Nashs life was a rags-to-riches story.

Flint Journal files say when he was roughly 6 years old, he was abandoned by his parents. A DeKalb County, Illinois, judge sent him to live with a Flushing-area farmer with the understanding that hed work on the farm until age 21.

Instead, Nash ran away at age 12 and found work on another farm near Grand Blanc, formed a hay-bailing business, and later moved to Flint, where he worked for a downtown store.

He was noticed by William C. Durant and J. Dallas Dort and was hired to work in their Durant-Dort Carriage Co. in Flint, once the largest-volume producer of carriages in the United States.

Nash rose from a laborer to general superintendent of the carriage company. He later became the president of GM. In 1916, he left the company to found the Nash Motor Co. in Kenosha, Wisconsin.

Freeman said the Nash home, located across Mason Street from the carriage company site, is solidly built but needs attention, including its porch and back door area.

Its got really good bones ... , he said. We want to make sure it lands in the right hands.

The Land Bank is known best for demolishing and maintaining tax-foreclosed properties in the city but its promoting the sale of what it calls Very Interesting Properties like the Nash house, requiring buyers to commit to specific plans for the homes and giving that more weight than the purchase price offer.

Proposal scoring for the Nash house offers is made up of the buyers experience and financing (up to 50 points), the feasibility of the project (up to 20 points), the price offered (up to 10 points), neighborhood benefit (up to 10 points), and area residency of a buyer (10 points).

The buyer will be required to complete the project within one year of the sale closing.

A full description of the home, proposal guidelines, project completion guidelines, and other information is listed on the Land Banks website.

Take a look through the gallery above to see inside of the home

Want more Flint-area news? Bookmark the local Flint news page or sign up for the free 3@3 Flint daily newsletter.

Read more at The Flint Journal:

Whats that? Historic Flint home on I-beams is slowly on the move

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GRAND RAPIDS, MI  Pam Kryger has spent her life baking nonstop for her five kids. Now that those kids are grown, shes turned her hobby into a business.

Joy of Sprinkles, located at 4318 Plainfield Ave NE Suite A, celebrated its opening on June 9. The bakery is the newest one-stop shop for all baked goods needs including models for your next treat and freshly bakery goods such as cookies and muffins.

Grace Nagel frosts cake pops in the kitchen at Joy of Sprinkles.

Shelves that line the store are filled with different kinds of sprinkle blends named Unicorn Barf' or Enchanted, cookie cutters 3D-printed by Krygers sister and even earrings that hang from jewelry holders, standing out among the oven mitts.

Like its namesake, Joy of Sprinkles has its own collection of house made sprinkles.

In the center of the store, Kryger talks to every customer that comes in, learning their name and their favorite type of cookie as desserts come in from the kitchen and are placed in the showcase still warm.

Kryger has been busy passing out samples to the community since the stores opening, including at the dance studio next door.

I try to pass out samples and get to meet people, Kryger said. When I opened this, I wanted it to have a sense of community, so I tried to bring things across the street to the fire station and help other people.

Kryger has been a dental hygienist in the community for the last 25 years before retiring this past February. While exploring the options for baking supplies the last few years there were limited options in West Michigan for baking supplies other than big chain stores.

The last few years Kryger has been molding a store of her own that would have fit all her needs when she was baking for her kids. It took Kryger 18 months to find the space, gather all of the supplies she wanted to sell and make renovations to the building like adding a kitchen to the back.

Kryger also had the support of Spring GR, a nonprofit that assists business owners in tips and tricks in the business industry, taking classes on accounting and business taxes.

I love decorating sugar cookies (but) I really cant stand computers and technology, Kryger said.

Kryger said she has grown in her business strategies and Spring GR celebrated her growth as a business owner by hosting a ribbon cutting celebration for the grand opening, inviting friends, family and community members.

The showcase at the front of the building is currently filled with popular items like the Brookie, which is a brownie mixed with a cookie, and maple bacon cookies.

Straight out of the oven, the famous brookies are half brownie and chocolate cookie at Joy of Sprinkles.

The items across the store are exactly what Kryger pictured when she was dreaming up Joy of Sprinkles.

I wanted the feel of a boutique rather than just a more industrial kind of warehouse feel to the store, Kryger said. I wanted it to smell good every day, and I wanted people to come in and sit around and eat a cookie, so I put a church pew in the front window.

Another specialty that separates Joy of Sprinkles from other cookie shops is Krygers cookie decorating classes. She plans on holding a kids camp where kids can come in throughout the day and complete a craft and decorate a cookie.

Kryger said she loves a sense of family, watching joy radiate from her own children while cookie decorating, wanting to bring that same experience through cookie decorating classes at Joy of Sprinkles and have kids be at home in her shop.

I feel like fingerprints on our cookie case is a sign of being well-loved, Kryger said.

Joy of Sprinkles is located at 4318 Plainfield Ave NE Suite A.

Joy of Sprinkles is open 10 a.m.- 5 p.m. Tuesday through Friday and 9 a.m.- 1 p.m. on Saturdays. The shop is closed Sundays and Mondays.

Contact Joy of Sprinkles at 616-287-4672.

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.

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BENZIE COUNTY, MI  A motorcyclist was injured early Sunday, July 2, in a collision with a Benzie County sheriffs patrol car, police said.

The crash happened around noon at U.S. 31 and Reynolds Road in Benzie Countys Inland Township.

Police said the sheriffs deputy was driving south on Reynolds Road when the patrol car collided with the westbound motorcycle on U.S. 31. The motorcyclist suffered an apparent leg injury, police said.

The deputy was not hurt.

The motorcyclist was not wearing a helmet.

Drugs and alcohol are not believed to be factors in the crash. State police are investigating.

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GRAND RAPIDS, MI  The annual Fourth of July fireworks display was held at Ah-Nab-Awen Park in downtown Grand Rapids on Saturday, July 1.

The event, that included food vendors and vendor exhibits on the banks of the Grand River, was free and open to the public. The music acts began about 6 p.m. this year with DJ Rob Sparks, followed by classic rock band Pretty Rage, with the fireworks beginning about 10:30 p.m.

Related: Fourth of July fireworks show in downtown Grand Rapids happening Saturday

Its exciting to bring all of West Michigan back to downtown Grand Rapids as a community to give families a place to enjoy and celebrate our nations independence, Russ Hines, CEO for Riverbank Events and Media, which organizes the annual celebration and display, recently told MLive.

The title sponsor of this years fireworks is the Soaring Eagle Casino and Resort. The casino and resort at 6800 Soaring Eagle Boulevard, Mount Pleasant, also sponsored the fireworks last year.

Other sponsors and partners for this years display include the city of Grand Rapids, Floor & Decor, Kendall Lighting Center, Red Water Collection, Gilmore Car Museum, LiveSpace, Salvation Army, Stock Da Bar Vodka and the Amway River Bank Run.

Scenes from the annual Fourth of July fireworks at Ah-Nab-Awen Park in downtown Grand Rapids on Saturday, July 1, 2023. Andrew Travis | MLive.com

Scenes from the annual Fourth of July fireworks at Ah-Nab-Awen Park in downtown Grand Rapids on Saturday, July 1, 2023. Andrew Travis | MLive.com

Scenes from the annual Fourth of July fireworks at Ah-Nab-Awen Park in downtown Grand Rapids on Saturday, July 1, 2023. Andrew Travis | MLive.com

Scenes from the annual Fourth of July fireworks at Ah-Nab-Awen Park in downtown Grand Rapids on Saturday, July 1, 2023. Andrew Travis | MLive.com

Scenes from the annual Fourth of July fireworks at Ah-Nab-Awen Park in downtown Grand Rapids on Saturday, July 1, 2023. Andrew Travis | MLive.com

Scenes from the annual Fourth of July fireworks at Ah-Nab-Awen Park in downtown Grand Rapids on Saturday, July 1, 2023.Andrew Travis | MLive.com

Scenes from the annual Fourth of July fireworks at Ah-Nab-Awen Park in downtown Grand Rapids on Saturday, July 1, 2023. Andrew Travis | MLive.com

See more images in the picture gallery below or click here to view the gallery.
SAGINAW, MI  The Fourth of July wont be the last time Saginaw residents can celebrate American patriotism next month.

The Castle Museum of Saginaw County History will host a 1940s-themed Victory Bash from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday, July 22. The event is planned outdoors on the property of the museum, 500 Federal in Saginaw.

The celebration will feature live music from Saginaw Elite Big Band, drinks, dancing and donuts, museum planners said. Tickets cost $25.

The event will mimic the United Service Organizations- (USO) and American Red Cross-organized celebrations that roused patriotism and boosted morale during World War II, complete with big band music.

Museum staff said they encourage attendees to wear their best 1940s-era inspired outfits.

The gathering is aimed at engaging the community and connecting residents with the museum, organizers said.

Engaging with history can be fun, so why not celebrate summer with a historically themed party, Jennifer Vannette, the museum outreach coordinator, said in a statement.

For more information about the Victory Bash, contact the museum at (989) 752-2861.

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.

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To say it was a busy week in Michigan politics would be an understatement. Im still trying to catch my breath, and thats not just because of the poor air quality here in Lansing.

Theres some big things catch up on, so lets jump into it:

4 takeaways from Trumps first Michigan speech of 2024 election

Trumps first Michigan campaign stop of 2024 election cycle was at the Oakland County Republican Partys Lincoln Day Dinner in Sunday night in Novi Sunday.

He accepted a man of the decade award from the county party then spoke for nearly an hour to a sold-out crowd of roughly 2,500 Republicans.

In the speech, characteristically wide-ranging, Trump attacked, among other topics, his primary rivals, President Joe Biden, electric vehicles and transgender athletes, recounting two scenarios where transgender athletes demolished other women in power lifting and running.

Michigans $82 billion budget brings record spending to all corners of state government

Democrats passed a record $81.7 billion budget late Wednesday night, committing billions in federal funding and a major surplus to make a statement about the priorities of a state government controlled by Democrats for the first time in decades.

This budget is a statement of our words, House Speaker Joe Tate, D-Detroit, said. This budget reflects the priorities of the people.  If we go back home, our constituents will ask us what have you done for us? How have you made our lives better? This budget does that.

Its a budget hallmarked by record spending on traditional Democratic priorities, including education, environmental protection and social services alongside additional spending on public safety, infrastructure and economic development.

Republicans throughout the legislature, however, decried the budgetary process, asserting they had been sidelined by Democratic majorities who only allowed them to review the nearly 1,600 pages of legislation on the day it passed.

Michigan schools given record per-pupil funding, $204M for at-risk students

Legislators also passed Wednesday a $24.3 billion school aid budget that largely prioritizes investments in Michigans K-12 schools, starting with the largest ever per-pupil allocation at $9,608 a student.

Chair of the Senate Appropriations K-12 Subcommittee, Sen. Darrin Camilleri, D-Brownstown Township, said lawmakers put the school budget together with the help of educators, parents and students.

We went into the field to listen to their stories, Camilleri said. This is a budget that truly reflects the values of the people of Michigan and equity was a core component of our budgeting process.

Line items within the school aid budget focus on reversing learning loss experienced by students as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, incentives for educators as a way to address the teacher shortage, school safety and several community-based projects.

Community colleges and universities were awarded a smaller chunk of the newly passed budget. However, there was a 4.9% increase for community college operations and a 6.4% increase for higher-education operations.

School contract employees arent being properly screened by education department, audit finds

The Michigan Department of Education is not adequately checking into the background and criminal history of contracted employees in the states public school system, an audit found.

A recently released report from the Office of the Auditor General determined the department did not properly monitor whether school districts were fingerprinting new hires and monitoring for criminal convictions as required by state law.

The audit estimated roughly 220 staff members, 4%, of the 5,010 contracted staff in the 41 districts surveyed were never fingerprinted for employment. None, however, were listed in the sex offender registry, which would automatically bar anyone from school employment.

Three of 45 sampled staff, it also found, were not fingerprinted in a timely manner. In one case, it took 10 years. Five others had serious criminal convictions, but the education department did take appropriate actions later, the report found.

Whitmer signs laws upping sexual abuse protections in medical, school settings

A series of bills signed into law by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer Thursday will, among other things, stiffen penalties for sexual abuse disguised as medical treatment while expanding protections against abuse in schools and retaliation against those who report abuse.

Born out of the Larry Nassar scandal at Michigan State University, some form of the bills had been introduced every session since 2018 but never made it through the full legislature. Longtime advocates for the reforms viewed them as unfinished business and a necessary response to the crimes of Nassar and Robert Anderson, doctors at Michigan State University and the University of Michigan, respectively.

Whitmer signed six House bills into law Thursday, but another nine pieces of legislation with further protections have been teed up for her signature and she anticipates signing them in the coming weeks, her office wrote in a release.

We must work together to support and protect students at every level and create environments that safeguard them from abuse, Whitmer said in a statement after the signing. Last year, I worked with legislators to expand the occupations required to report child abuse, and todays legislation builds on that bipartisan work to keep our kids safe. We have all seen the devastating impacts of ongoing, unreported abuse.

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The whole NDC fraternity including the Germany Chapter is overjoyed with the resounding victory of Hon. James Gyakye Quayson in the by-election conducted on 27.06.2023.

Despite the obvious persecution of Hon. Quayson by this NPP government, the Assin North constituents have shown their unalloyed support to their hardworking MP and retained him to continue with his good works in Parliament.

This victory for Hon. Quayson is indeed a reflection of the affection of the people of Assin North for Hon. Quayson and the NDC Party to rescue Ghana from the economic mess and the sinking image of Ghana created by this badly performing NPP government.

The people of Assin North have loudly spoken to register their frustrations, on behalf of Ghanaians, concerning untold hardships visited on them by this failing and clueless Akufo-Addo-Bawumia-led regime.

We also recommend the national executives of the Party for galvanizing the support base of the Party to massively vote for Hon. Quayson amid intimidation and disinformation.

Ghanaians are ready to roundly reject this poor-performing governing NPP government in 2024. All hands should be on deck to rescue and rebuild the Ghana we want come 2025!

We wish Hon. James Gyakye Quayson all the best in his parliamentary duties.

Signed

Mr. Daniel Dake, NDC Germany Chapter Chairman
Turkish authorities have cracked down on Istanbul's Pride parade with dozens of arrests. Once one of the biggest events in the region, Pride is now struggling to survive, with newly re-elected President Recep Tayyip Erdogan accusing the LGBTQ+ movement of threatening Turkish society.

For three decades Istanbul Pride Week has been the focal point of the year for Turkey's LGBTQ+ community, attracting tens of thousands of people.

"It's super important because we don't have any other location or place where we can actually talk about these things," says Can Kortun, a member of the Istanbul Pride Committee.

"We don't have any location where we can talk about Muslim feminist LGBTQ+ people. We don't have any place to talk about immigrant LGBTQ+ people. We don't have any place we can talk about our civil rights.

"The other side is being able to show people that we are not a small number of people."

Parade branded 'terror threat'

Relations between people of the same sex have been allowed  or at least not criminalised  in Turkey since the establishment of the secular republic in 1923.

But in recent years, the authorities have been cracking down on Pride week.

This year is no different. The centre of Istanbul was locked down after the local governor ruled that a planned parade by LGBTQ+ members was a terror threat.

Despite massive security, participants attempted to go ahead with their Pride march, which resulted in over a hundred arrests and heavily armed riot police chasing people through the streets.

Last month Erdogan used his victory speech to ramp up his anti-LGBTQ+ rhetoric. He accused the community of posing an unacceptable threat to family values.

Oner Ceylan of Lambda, an Istanbul-based LGBTQ+ group, says Erdogan sees their movement as a political threat.

"The political spaces in Turkey have been immensely narrowing more and more. And the only people who can go out on the street and protest are women and they are being severely punished," says Ceylan.

"Because of that, Erdogan has chosen the LGBTQ+ community as a target consciously because I think he believes that it's the movement strong enough to be visible and disturbing to some people who are afraid of liberties in society."

Pride struggling to survive

Many LGBTQ+ organisations that have developed over the past few decades in Turkey are now struggling to survive under increasing legal pressure.

"We have activists who are facing jail time," said Mustafa Sariyilmaz of the Turkish branch of the Sweden-based Civil Rights Defenders group.

"Many of those people who were sued, they have been banned to leave the country, and most of them are like youngsters, university students."

Sariyilmaz says the crackdown is undermining the effectiveness of LGBTQ+ groups.

"They are stuck in a corner. Every single step they want to take and every single thing they want to do is being investigated. So they cannot openly support many people.

"The cases against us are getting bigger and bigger every year, and we don't have enough lawyers to support us."

Legal and political pressures are widely predicted to increase, and there's an expectation among LGBTQ+ members that things are going to get worse.

But there's also a belief their achievements can't be undone.

"I grew up in the 80s where there was next to nothing about queer issues in the media in the society'" recounts veteran activist Ceylan.

"It was not something that people discussed. It was very difficult for me to find my way around, and it took a long time. Now, thanks to the movements of 30 years ... there's a very different scene.

"No matter how hard Erdogan tries, he cannot squeeze us back in the closet."
Following a night where 1,300 people were arrested across France, 45,000 police officers have been deployed again across the country, after the killing of a teenager at a police checkpoint sparked unrest that prompted President Emmanuel Macron to postpone a trip to Germany.

The French president felt compelled to postpone a state visit to Germany that was due to begin on Sunday due to the ongoing unrest.

On Twitter, France's interior ministry revised the number of people arrested on Friday up to 1,311. Yet despite the rise in arrests, the ministry remarked the violence was "lower in intensity" than the previous night.

Mirroring the Macron government's decision to deploy 45,000 police officers on Friday, the same number  along with armoured vehicles  have been sent out this Saturday night to tackle what is the worst crisis to face the president's leadership since the "Yellow Vest" protests which brought much of France to a standstill in late 2018.

Nahel, a 17-year-old of Algerian and Moroccan descent, was shot by a police officer during a traffic stop on Tuesday in the Paris suburb of Nanterre, where buses have been halted.

A quiet funeral

Meanwhile, several hundred people reportedly lined up to enter Nanterre's grand mosque, which was guarded by volunteers in yellow vests, to express support for Nahel's family during his funeral on Saturday afternoon.

According to mourners, Nahel was buried at the Mont-Valerien cemetery in Nanterre in the presence of his mother and grandmother.

The ceremony reportedly took place "very calmly, quietly and without any outbursts," with those in attendance adding that a large number of young people were present, in a "family-like" atmosphere.

The shooting of the teenager  caught on video  has reignited longstanding complaints by poor and racially mixed urban communities of police violence and racism.

Macron had denied there is systemic racism in French law enforcement agencies and has called out social media platforms for their role in fomenting violence.

Shops ransacked, events cancelled

Looters have ransacked dozens of shops and torched 2,000 vehicles since the start of the riots, which have spread to cities such as Marseille, Lyon, Toulouse, Strasbourg and Lille.

Finance minister Bruno Le Maire said more than 700 shops supermarkets, restaurants and bank branches had been "ransacked, looted and sometimes even burnt to the ground since Tuesday".

Local authorities all over the country announced bans on demonstrations and ordered public transport to stop running in the evening.

Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin has said that more than 200 police officers have been injured adding that the average age of those arrested was 17.

The unrest has revived memories of nationwide riots in 2005 that forced then President Jacques Chirac to declare a state of emergency, after the death of two young men electrocuted in a power substation as they hid from police.

When asked on Friday whether the government could declare a state of emergency, Darmanin said: "Quite simply, we're not ruling out any hypothesis and we'll see after tonight what the President of the Republic chooses."

Events including two concerts at the Stade de France on the outskirts of Paris have been cancelled, while Tour de France organisers said they were ready to adapt to any situation when the cycle race enters the country on Monday from Spain.
Residents of Hangaline-Al Manara, a suburb of Damongo, the Savannah regional capital battle for their lives and properties with a century-old erosion gutter as the rains set in.

Electorates of this area can no longer sleep or go to farms as they don't know when this century-old erosion gutter will be claiming their lives and properties as their homes now hang in the air.

Not sitting idle, efforts have been made by both Assembly member and residents of this electoral area to get a proper drainage system as a lasting solution but went in vain as promises by both the government representatives and politicians were unfulfilled.

In an engagement with one Mr. Tahiru, a teacher and resident of the area when I went to verify things for myself, he narrated how he lost over GHS4000 as an apron he constructed to serve as a defense against heavy rains that may sweep his home away or swallowed by this century-old erosion gutter has been washed away overnight by the rains.

Residents are therefore once again, appealing to individuals, NGO's, MP for Damongo constituency, Lawyer Samuel Abu Jinapor and the government to come to their aid as all that they need for now is a drainage system.
By Shunsuke Yamamoto, KYODO NEWS - Jul 2, 2023 - 11:50 | All, Japan, Feature

Automatically operated shinkansen bullet trains could be right around the bend.

Central Japan Railway Co. and East Japan Railway Co. aim to commercialize driverless systems around 2028 for the Tokaido Shinkansen and the mid-2030s for the Joetsu Shinkansen, respectively.

But as testing of the systems progresses, the differing goals of the two JR companies have become apparent, reflecting the characteristics of the route and the level of cost-cutting targeted.

In the early morning on May 11, a test train on the Tokaido Shinkansen Line equipped with an automatic train operating system, or ATO, departed from Hamamatsu Station in Shizuoka Prefecture, central Japan.

The train accelerated when the driver pushed a green button, then automatically decelerated and re-accelerated in response to sudden instructions and later stopped at Shizuoka Station. There was a deviation of 9 millimeters (0.35 inches) in the stop position and an arrival time error of 2 seconds.

The trial was hailed "a major success" by JR Central officials.

The main challenges for the ATO being developed by JR Central are sticking to standard departure, transit, and arrival times set in 15-second increments at each station and improving passenger comfort and energy-saving operation by adjusting for the number of acceleration/deceleration cycles and speed fluctuations.

The semi-automatic system includes an advanced feature that allows the train to run at higher speeds than usual until it reaches a slowdown section -- established in the event of bad weather along the route or for other reasons -- to compensate for the delay caused by a projected slowdown.

JR Central has targeted Grade 2 automation in light of the classification recognized by international organizations, which calls for an operator to always be in the driver's seat. Grade 2 automatic train operation has already been introduced by the Tokyo Metro subway system and other firms and is not a new form of operation.

For now, the company has no intention of aiming for a higher automation grade. Of the five degrees of automation, Grade 4, in which a train is automatically controlled without staff on board, is the highest. The Yurikamome line, Tokyo's first fully automated transit system connecting Shimbashi to Toyosu via the artificial island of Odaiba, runs without staff on board.

"We need a driver to communicate with the command center and to respond to emergencies," a JR Central official said.

Meanwhile, JR East is aiming to introduce Grade 3 automation on the Joetsu Shinkansen, which will allow operation by train attendants who need not be qualified as drivers. The train still needs a crew member on board to operate.

It also plans to extend the system to the Hokuriku Shinkansen, running on the Sea of Japan side of central Japan.

"This will reduce the cost of driver training. Grade 2 requires the operator to be in the driver's seat at all times, even during automatic driving, which makes work conditions harder," said a JR East official. The company has been carrying out tests since October 2021.

Ryo Takagi, a professor of railroad engineering at Kogakuin University in Tokyo, pointed out that "Grades 2 and 3 are not so different in terms of the performance of the ATO."

But Takagi speculates that "JR Central probably does not see much significance in trying to reduce the number of its drivers" as the Tokaido Shinkansen Line carries a considerable volume of passengers, making it sometimes necessary for them to respond quickly when an abnormality is found or the timetable is disrupted.

As far as automation is concerned, he added, "I hope that it will be introduced as a technology to reduce the stress of work, not to use train attendants as cheap labor."
On behalf of the 2023 Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) candidates of Froebel Education Complex in Kumasi, the management of the school has settled the hospital bills of some patients.

Five dustbins were also presented to the Mater Dei Hospital, at Patase to curb wastage ahead of the 30th Anniversary of the school.

The staff of the school and the candidates earlier had donated food items to Cherubs Children's Home, at Aperi near Kumasi in the Atwima Kwanwoma District.

The items donated to the orphans are a bag of rice, a carton of milk, a bag of sugar, bottled water, and toiletries among other items, and a cash of GHS10,000.

The administrator of the school, Mr. David Owusu explained the rationale behind the gesture.

He said, "Froebel established thirty years ago the journey has not been so easy. As we are about to climax it, it is wise for us to celebrate it with the less privileged in society, we again thought it wise to share the little we have with our brothers and sisters who through no fault have found themselves here."

Mr. David Owusu also touched on the need for parents and guardians to invest much in children's education which according to him, is the only legacy for their kids.

"At Froebel Educational Complex, we are doing our best to ensure students become 'somebody' and we urge parents to also prioritize their kid's education for future purposes," Mr. David Owusu stated.

The administrator of Cherubs Children's Home, Mr. Bernard Osei Bonsu, who happens to be a pioneer of Froebel received the items and the amount of cash from Mr. David Owusu.

Mr. Osei Bonsu presented an appreciation letter after the kind gesture from the BECE candidates to Froebel management.

Head of Social Services at Cherubs, Pastor Bismark Osei Bonsu prayed for God's blessings for the candidates and anyone who supported the donation.
01.07.2023 LISTEN

A delegation from the National Peace Council (NPC) led by His Eminence Numo Blafo Akotia Omaetu III, a member of the councils governing board, has held a meeting with the Chiefs and Elders of the Somey Traditional Area.

The meeting chaired by Torgbi Adamah III, Paramount Chief of the Somey Traditional Area, was to deliberate over the controversy which surrounded comments made by Archbishop Charles Agyin-Asare, founder and general overseer of the Perez Chapel International, and to see how best to address the issue in the interest of peace and unity.

The Archbishop during a summit at the Perez auditorium in Accra, described Nogokpo as the demonic headquarters in the Volta region.

His comments infuriated the people of Nogokpo and the larger Volta region, some of whom took to various social media platforms to criticize the respected clergyman.

The chiefs and elders of the town issued a two week ultimatum to the Archbishop to withdraw his comments and render an apology to the people.

The ultimatum has long elapsed.

Torgbi Adamah told the Ghana News Agency (GNA) after the meeting that both the Peace Council and the Somey Traditional Council had agreed to resolve the issue amicably.

We have communicated our position to the Peace Council, and have tasked the council to communicate that position to the Archbishop. The Somey Traditional Council is giving the Archbishop a weeks ultimatum to withdraw the controversial comment and render an unqualified apology to the people of Nogokpo, the Somey Traditional Area and the entire Volta region.

Torgbi Adamah said the Traditional Council had asked its lawyers to officially write to the Archbishop of the councils decision and position.

He clarified that the one week ultimatum would start from the day the Archbishop officially received the letter from the traditional councils lawyers.

He said should the Archbishop fail to heed the traditional councils demand for an apology, the Somey Traditional Council would advise itself accordingly.

The Paramount Chief noted that there had always been a negative perception about the people of the Volta region.

This should not have been an issue, but the fact that the people of the region have over the years been perceived as bad people, affecting our marriages to other tribes and job opportunities, the Archbishop should not have uttered those comments in the first place.

He is a respected and experienced man of God who should be uniting people and not passing divisive comments. He must render an apology to bring this matter to rest  we are not happy with this at all. Torgbi Adamah said.

Numo Blafo Akotia Omaetu III, showed appreciation to the Somey Traditional Council for the warm reception and understanding.

He assured of the Peace Councils commitment to ensuring that the issue was resolved amicably in the interest of harmony and peaceful coexistence.

Some members of the Volta regional Peace Council, including its Chairman, Rev. Seth Kwesi Mawutor, were present at the meeting.

GNA
Richard Appiah, the accused person in the infamous Abesim murder case, is still under psychiatric examination, Madam Justina Owusu-Banahene, the Bono Regional Minister, has said.

Mad. Owusu-Banahene at a media briefing in Sunyani asked the bereaved families to remain calm with the assurance that justice would prevail.

Appiah was arrested in October 2021 for the alleged killing of 12 and 15-year-olds, Louis Agyemang and Stephen Sarpong at Abesim, a suburb of Sunyani and he had since been standing trial at the Kaneshie District Court.

The court has, however, ordered a psychiatric examination of the accused based on the advice of the Attorney-General.

Describing the murder as monstrous, Mad. Owusu-Banahene said Appiah is undergoing serious psychiatric evaluation and examination to ascertain his mental faculty.

I have met the Inspector General of Police and the Deputy Attorney-General and Minister of Justice on the matter and I assure you that prosecution on the matter is steadily progressing, she stated.

Touching on security, Mad. Owusu-Banahene said the Regional Security Council (REGSEC) was working hard to improve on the security situation in the region and called for support of the public.

She emphasised the need for everybody to remain watchful, refrain from walking alone at night and in isolated places, and report people with questionable characters and strange movements to the security services to apprehend them for prosecution.

Meanwhile, some residents at Abesim and its surrounding area have appealed to the judiciary to be expeditious on the prosecution of the accused person.

GNA
02.07.2023 LISTEN

Mrs. Samira Bawumia in the lead-up to the 2016 general elections was undoubtedly vocal with respect to how Ghana was badly governed under the Mahama-led regime.

Like her husband, Vice President Bawumia, Samira Bawumia was emphatic that Ghanaians were seeing corruption and incompetence everywhere under former President Mahama and urged voters to reject the governing NDC government then.

The theoretically refined economic propaganda submissions and incompetence tag for former President Mahama coined by her husband were also re-echoed by Second Lady, Samira Bawumia, leading to the victory of the NPP Party in 2016.

Time has indeed exposed the insincere and super incompetence exhibited by this NPP government, which failed to fight worsening corruption, nepotism, galamsey menace, unsustainable borrowing, etc. leading to the ongoing painful domestic debt exchange programme as a precondition for the IMF loan Agreement.

The conspicuous silence of the Second Lady in the face of these worrying and devastating economic realities under this Akufo-Addo-Bawumia-led regime is interestingly concerning, and I am tempted to ask the following questions.

1. Is Mrs. Samira Bawumia not seeing the worsening corruption, nepotism, and incompetence going on everywhere in this Akufo-Addo-Bawumia-led regime?

2. Is this the kind of governance that the Second Lady wanted Ghanaians to vote for to change their livelihood in 2016?

3. What kind of advice is she giving to her husband who is the head of the Economic Management Team (EMT) now, and yet the national debt and Ghana cedi have escaped the shackles of the former IGP?

4. Is she waiting for the head of the EMT to possibly win the NPP presidential race in November or so before she breaks her deafening silence on how badly or well this government has performed?

Well, the good people of Ghana are now fully aware of the shenanigans and false hope given in 2016 by the second Lady. Now, the weak and shaky fundamentals of the economy and the appalling living conditions of Ghanaians have badly exposed her insincere stance.

This is the very reason why the name of the second Lady, Samira Bawumia should be called out now before she resurrects her dead voice again in the event that her husband gets the nod of the NPP supporters.

It is apparent that the Second Lady was engaging in cheap talk and Ghanaians should beware of her future utterances as we go into the 2024 general elections.

This NPP government has no viable campaign message for Ghanaians again as they have amazingly disappointed so many Ghanaians including myself with their highly unsatisfactory governance. So far, this is not the government that shows any scintilla of proof that they have the men to execute government business effectively and efficiently.

For instance, the so-called year of roads has become the year of potholes, and Ghana beyond aid has now become Ghana begging for aid as well as failed campaign promises such as 1D1F, 1V1D, and the wobbly fSHS programmes are some of the failures of this government.

The Ghanaian voter is more discerning than before and very much poised to exercise their franchise come 2024 once again. The Assin North victory for Hon. James Gyakye Quayson and the NDC Party in the just-ended by-election confirms this position.

Ghana badly needs rescue now and it is our collective responsibility to ensure that this inept and insensitive Akufo-Addo-Bawumia-led regime is shown the political power exit on December 7, 2024.
The private two-floor apartment belonging to former Queen of France Marie-Antoinette has reopened to the public after years of renovations.

Marie-Antoinette, who was the Archduchess of Austria, arrived at the Palace of Versailles in 1770 after her marriage to the future King Louis XVI.

Having grown up with the less elaborate ceremonial routine of Austria's royal palaces, Marie-Antoinette had a hard time adapting to France's complex royal etiquette and over the years tried to seek out a more private life.

She moved into the former Queen Marie Leszczynska's apartment on the first floor of Versailles, but quickly started decorating her own chambers, which she continued to embellish until 1788.

Marie-Antoinette was known for her eye for detail in fashion and interior design, and her love of the arts.

Her taste for decorating and collections are clear in the private quarters, which were reopened to the public this week after extensive restoration work.

On the first floor is the Meridienne room  named after the ottoman placed in an alcove lined with mirrors  which was fitted out in 1781.

The library, dating back to 1781, was also recently restored thanks to sponsorship from the Friends of Versailles group.

The Golden Cabinet was named after the sculpted woodwork inspired by Egyptian motifs, which were all the rage in 1784. Prior to that, in 1779, Marie-Antoinette had it decorated with silk flowers, arabesques and gilded medallions.

The two floors of the apartment are connected by small staircases, located behind the alcove of the main room.

The second floor has a dining room, a boudoir and a billiard room (a game played at Versailles since Louis XIV), which was also used for hosting friends and guests. Three rooms were assigned to the chambermaids and three rooms for other staff.

The restoration of the Jouy tapestries, a central element of the second floor, was carried out for the most part using the traditional flat frame technique.

Many of the pieces in the apartment are decorated with the pineapple motif, produced by the Manufacture de Jouy in the 18th century.

Read also:
02.07.2023 LISTEN

Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to use his good offices and leadership position to urgently publish details of spending of about N400bn so far saved as a result of the removal of subsidy on Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) popularly called petrol.

SERAP urged him to provide details of the plans on how subsequent savings from the removal of subsidy on petrol, including specific projects on which the funds would be spent, and the mechanisms that have been put in place to ensure that any such savings are not embezzled, misappropriated or diverted into private pockets.

According to reports, the Federal Government has saved N400bn within the four weeks following the implementation of the policy on the removal of payment of subsidy on petrol.

In the letter dated 1 July 2023 and signed by SERAP deputy director Kolawole Oluwadare, the organisation said: Your government has a legal responsibility to ensure that the savings from the removal of subsidy on petrol are spent solely for the benefit of the 137 million poor Nigerians who are bearing the brunt of the removal.

SERAP said, Prevention of corruption in the spending of savings from the removal of subsidy on petrol and preventing and addressing the challenges caused by the removal are serious and legitimate public interests.

According to SERAP, Nigerians have the right to know how the savings are spent. Publishing the details of the spending of the savings would promote transparency, accountability, and reduce the risks of corruption in the spending of the funds.

The letter, read in part: SERAP is concerned that the savings from subsidy removal may be embezzled, misappropriated or diverted into private pockets.

Opacity in the spending of the savings from subsidy removal would have negative impacts on the fundamental interests of the citizens and the public interest.

We would be grateful if the recommended measures are taken within 7 days of the receipt and/or publication of this letter. If we have not heard from you by then, SERAP shall consider appropriate legal actions to compel your government to comply with our request in the public interest.

Unless the government is transparent and accountable to Nigerians in how it spends the savings from the removal of subsidy on petrol, the removal will continue to undermine the rights of Nigerians, and increase their vulnerability to poverty and social deprivation.

Transparency would ensure that the funds saved from the removal of subsidy are not diverted into private pockets, and increase public trust and confidence that these savings would be used to benefit Nigerians.

The implementation of the National Social Safety Net Programme (NASSP) and spending on the programme have been mostly shrouded in secrecy.

Publishing the details of the spending of the N400bn and other savings from the removal of subsidy would also ensure that persons with public responsibilities are answerable to the people for the performance of their duties including the management of the funds.

Transparency and accountability in the spending details of the N400bn saved as a result of the removal of subsidy on petrol, and on the spending of subsequent savings from the removal would mean that the savings can help poor Nigerians to overcome the effects of such removal.

It would also help to avoid a morally repugnant result of double jeopardy on poor and socially and economically vulnerable Nigerians.

The lack of transparency and accountability in the spending of savings from the removal of subsidy on petrol and the resulting human costs would directly threaten fundamental human rights that your government has an obligation to protect.

Your government has the legal obligations to address the effects of subsidy removal on the human rights of 137 million poor Nigerians, and to prevent and address some of the direst consequences that the removal may reap on human rights, especially given the disproportionate impact on these Nigerians.

SERAP also urges you to promptly instruct Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) and Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to monitor the spending of all savings from subsidy removal.

SERAP notes that the removal of subsidy on petrol continues to negatively and disproportionately affect poor Nigerians, undermining their right to adequate standard of living.

Your government has a positive obligation to protect individuals against the threat posed to human rights by the removal of subsidy on petrol. Your government also has legal obligations to effectively address the aftermath of subsidy removal.

SERAP is seriously concerned that years of allegations of corruption and mismanagement in the spending of public funds and entrenched impunity of perpetrators have undermined public trust and confidence in governments at all levels.

The Freedom of Information Act, Section 39 of the Nigerian Constitution, article 9 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples Rights and article 19 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights guarantee to everyone the right to information, including the details of how the N400bn and other savings from the removal of subsidy on petrol would be spent.

By the combined reading of the provisions of the Nigerian Constitution 1999 [as amended], the Freedom of Information Act 2011, and the African Charter on Human and Peoples Rights, there are transparency obligations imposed on your government to widely publish the details of how the N400bn and other savings from the removal of subsidy on petrol are spent.

The Nigerian Constitution, Freedom of Information Act, and the countrys anti-corruption and human rights obligations rest on the principle that citizens should have access to information regarding their government's activities.

Section 13 of the Nigerian Constitution imposes clear responsibility on your government to conform to, observe and apply the provisions of Chapter 2 of the constitution. Section 15(5) imposes the responsibility on your government to abolish all corrupt practices and abuse of power in the country.

Under Section 16(1) of the Constitution, your government has a responsibility to secure the maximum welfare, freedom and happiness of every citizen on the basis of social justice and equality of status and opportunity.

Section 16(2) further provides that, the material resources of the nation are harnessed and distributed as best as possible to serve the common good.

Similarly, articles 5 and 9 of the UN Convention against Corruption also impose legal obligations on your government to ensure proper management of public affairs and public funds, and to promote sound and transparent administration of public affairs.
I can say with absolute certainty that Nana Akufo Addo, the president of Ghana at the moment, is not clever in the least. Together with his family, the finance minister, Ken Ofori-Atta, their brashness, incompetence, laziness, extensive corruption, and covert criminal activity, have irreparably damaged Ghana and its economy. Therefore, we must question ourselves, "If you are a person with a brain, why do people leave Akufo Addo alone to insult Mahama amid the carnage?" The answer is simple, he is 500% more intellectual than Akufo Addo, and everyone knows that.

Corruption is endemic in African politics because the legal system is too weak to combat it and because the law itself is corrupt. Why then do people criticize Mahama while ignoring the harm that Akufo Akufo Addo has done to the nation with his pervasive corruption, extreme laziness, gross incompetence, and arrogance? Assuming that Mahama wasn't perfect in the past, why people have failed to realize the extensive damage Akufo Addo has done to this nation after he promised to improve things for the people? Mahama isn't a fool like Akufo Addo, which is why people hate him and he will never be.



If someone can convince me that Akufo Addo is more intelligent than John Mahama, I would give that person 500 Euros through the editor of Modern Ghana.

Mahama has outperformed Akufo Akufo in terms of intelligence and productivity. His accomplishments spread to the Ashanti people, where, after more than seven years in power, Akufo Addo began to make improvements as a result of the by-election. However, as soon as Joel Savage writes and it hits them hard, they will either call his article trash or accused him of receiving payment from the NDC. This is in contrast to the fact that whenever someone writes against Mahama and insults him, despite what he has accomplished in the country, nobody accuses them of hating the former Ghanaian leader or calls their articles trash.

Such people should be dealt with by God harshly and without any mercy because they contributed to and are accountable for the disaster that has befallen our country. I have always warned Ghanaians that Akufo Addo is not the best person to lead the country and that appointing his relative Ken Ofori-Atta as finance minister will bring the country to its knees. I was constantly attacked, as usual, but now that the dust has settled, Ghanaians can see it clearly and comprehend all I was trying to tell them. Without any shame, they try to pull me down but who can pull Joel Savage down?

Mahama has many enemies because he is not stupid and as foolish as Akufo Addo. He ponders things carefully, as all reasonable people should. He hasn't demolished government buildings without replacing them, and he most certainly wouldn't demolish the hospital serving the La-Teshie-Nungua people if he knew there wasn't enough money to construct a replacement. Akufo Addo's foolish and dumb action won't be taken by Mahama. The fact that he refused to act foolishly like Akufo Addo is making his enemies very unhappy and kept them up at night.



Certain writers hate Mahama and their actions have rather let the majority of Ghanaians know that John Mahama is better than Akufo Addo. How do you consider yourself an intelligent writer by ignoring all the crimes of Akufo Addo, including illegal mining that has polluted all the water bodies in Ghana, engaging in illegal gold trade that has cost the nation millions, and going against someone whose leadership in Ghana established a booming economy? I am not saying Mahama is a saint but Akufo Addo has done more harm to Ghana than any Ghanaian leader.

Anyone who believes that Ghana is doing better now than it was during the Mahama administration is not acting like a normal person. He will soon join the insane people who are camped out in cemeteries and under bridges. Gone are those that I feel bad about those who constantly criticize and insult me, including my parents, whenever I write. These days, I don't care because those who do so actually know you hit the nail at the right place or stepped on a tender spot that hurt them, and so they insult you out of resentment.

If you want to know if Akufo Addo is intelligent, consider why he can't build but enjoys changing the names of Ghanaian institutions and historical events. Alternatively, pay attention to the pointless claims he constantly makes to determine how sluggish he is. Consider the question of why Akufo Addo wants to sell Ghana's property one more time. More importantly, think about why this president is reluctant to tell Ghanaians what he did with the money despite having a substantial debt there. Do the gullible writers truly think that insulting Mahama will change anything in Ghana? Thats why Akufo Addo is failing.



It's time to acknowledge that their relentless criticism of Mahama has raised awareness among enlightened Ghanaians that he is unique and that nothing or anybody can diminish his intelligence or compare him to the stupid Akufo Addo era. While I am aware that Akufo Addo and Ken Ofori-Atta are to blame for the tragedies that have befallen the country, I will not remain silent in response to false charges and attacks against Mahama. God is my judge, so I don't care if I'm called names or even if I'm accused of taking money from the NDC.
Anti-corruption activist Paul Holden has done South Africa a great favour by summarising the work of the judicial commission that probed massive corruption under former president Jacob Zuma. No one except academics will read the commission's 4,750 page report, but many will read Holden's book, Zondo at your Fingertips .

Holden is a former director of investigations at Corruption Watch , the South African corruption watchdog. He has worked with the investigative organisations Shadow World and Open Secrets for many years. He seeks to expose how corrupt individuals, aided by auditors and banks, not only looted the state but came to control it and pervert it into a kleptocracy.

The author, who has also lived in the UK, tells us that the Zondo commission was globally unique:

There are only a handful of examples of any state or quasi-judicial inquiry being given the task and resources to delve so deeply into the corruption of the ruling party  something like the scale, importance and independence of the Zondo Commission could never happen in the United Kingdom.

Holden has written a good and solid book, selecting and explaining the significant Zondo findings. It is useful for South Africans in getting a grasp of the commission's report. Overall, this book is recommended for your bookshelf and every library.

If South Africans are lucky, the multi-volume report will be read through by prosecutors, who have the power to formulate charges and get the courts to issue warrants of arrest.

But the historical odds are stacked against this. The country has had over a dozen big commissions of inquiry. Not many people landed up in jail as a consequence.

How the story is told

Holden starts by telling us that the commission, headed by then deputy chief justice Raymond Zondo , heard 1,731,106 pages of documentary evidence, which it summarised in a transcript of 75,099 pages. The commission's 19-volume report totals 4,750 pages. It heard 300 witnesses over 400 days of hearings, spread over four and a half years between 2018 and 2021.

Only the report of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission , which probed human rights abuses by both the apartheid regime and the liberation movement during the struggle for freedom in South Africa, has been comparable in length and scope . It sat from 1996 and submitted its final report in October 2003 .

Read more: A democracy or a kleptocracy? How South Africa stacks up

The book is well structured in 10 parts. These include a chapter on the capture of state institutions such as the South African Revenue Service, the capture of state-owned enterprises such as South African Airways, the failures of the president, the African National Congress, and parliament, and a chapter on what money went where.

Commissions of inquiry

The most ambitious commission of inquiry set up in South Africa was the Truth and Reconciliation Commission. Set up in 1996 after the end of apartheid, it offered amnesty in exchange for information about atrocities.

No one who refused to apply for amnesty, or whose amnesty application was refused by the commission, was in fact prosecuted. A quarter of a century lapsed before the families of some detainees who'd been tortured to death found pro bono lawyers who instituted the reopening of inquests and other litigation  with zero support from the government.

The great majority of the recommendations of commissions of inquiry, such as the Farlam Commission into the massacre of striking miners and other killings at Marikana, North West province in 2012, remain unimplemented and ignored by the government. Sceptics argue that commissions of inquiry merely provide governments with a pretext to stall any remedial actions for years , until the politics of the front page has moved onto other issues.

Read more: South Africa has a new Chief Justice: an introduction to Raymond Zondo

Holden notes that Judge Zondo ordered the government to lay charges with the police against Dudu Myeni, former chair of South African Airways, for revealing the identity of a witness. But no arrest or prosecution has yet occurred. Likewise, the commission's recommendations to the Legal Practice Council , to explore whether certain lawyers who enabled corruption should be struck off the roll, and to the auditors' regulatory entity, to do the same with some auditors, have not yet resulted in action.

However, the author concludes, on the positive side, the Asset Forfeiture Unit , which is empowered to seize assets which are the proceeds of crime, successfully froze the Optimum coal mine to prevent it being sold on to cronies of the Guptas , the Indian family accused of orchestrating mass corruption in South Africa.

The Special Investigating Unit took up numerous cases against multinational companies to recoup state funds and got billions of rand refunded. The Investigative Directorate of the National Prosecuting Authority made numerous arrests; prosecutions are pending.

Recommendations

Holden notes that the Zondo Commission made a number of recommendations. Key among these are to professionalise all appointments to the boards of state-owned enterprises, and prevent cabinet ministers from appointing political cronies and other unqualified or compromised persons. The same applies to professionalising civil service , provincial, and municipal procurement officials.

Read more: Whistleblowers are key to fighting corruption in South Africa. It shouldn't be at their peril

Holden also summarises the commission's enhanced proposed protection for whistle blowers, and to grant them compensation for losses they suffered. He notes that Zondo also flagged the deployment of party loyalists to key state positions as a violation of the constitution's section 197 (3).

Keith Gottschalk is a member of the ANC, but writes this review in his professional capacity as a political scientist.

By Keith Gottschalk, Political Scientist, University of the Western Cape
The Bono East Regional Minister, Kwasi Adu Gyan, says governments commitment to ICT education is amply demonstrated in its relentless effort to promote Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) education in the country.

To this end, measures are being put in place to strengthen STEM education as well as promote technical and vocational training with emphasis on the use of ICT for teaching and learning.

For now, ten (10) modern STEM schools are being built with eight fully completed, fully equipped and in operation. Government is prioritizing the building, rehabilitation and retooling of TVET centers in the country and has established TVET Services as a unit under the Ministry of Education with its own Director General. The effort is aimed at producing skilled middle work force to serve as the bedrock of Ghanas industrialization agenda, he said.

The minister was addressing the 10th Congregation of the Atebubu College of Education (ATECOE) at Atebubu over the weekend.

The occasion was under theme: Enhancing IT Integration in Contemporary Teacher Education: The Role of the Colleges of Education.

The colourful ceremony attracted people from all walks of life including the Bono Regional Minister, Justina Owusu Banahene, who is also a past student, as well as other past students, chiefs and a host of others.

Mr. Adu Gyan noted that the success of STEM and TVET education in the country is contingent on the integration of Information Technology in the education and training of teachers to acquire the requisite skills, knowledge and competencies to enhance their output.

Leadership

The minister urged the Principal, Members of Governing Board and Management of the College to be fully committed to the vision of the College by providing sound and visionary leadership to support the successful training of competent teachers for the region and the country at large.

To the graduating class, the minister reminded them that the real value of attaining their certificates lies in how they apply the knowledge acquired in real life situations to impact society positively.

Do not forget, or take for granted, the most obvious things around us. College education is about learning how to think and exercise some degree of control over your thoughts so you can choose what to pay attention to, said the minister.

It is important to remember that the degree certificates you earn today and conferred by your university, signifies that you have successfully completed a course of study. The real value lies in how you apply the knowledge you have received in the world of work. How you avail yourself of the opportunities to learn, adapt, and better yourselves and therefore experience the needed change you desire in your life, he added.

The Regional minister emphasised that Ghanas quest of becoming an industrialised country depends on the quality of her citizens who are a product of its educational system.

It is in this respect that the Government has initiated some key education reforms to transform teaching and learning and improve education outcomes under the Education Strategic Plan (ESP 2018-2030), he explained.

These reforms, according to him, are expected to contribute to the achievement of the sustainable Development Goal 4: Quality Education and lead to the improvement of learning outcomes especially at the pre-tertiary levels.

ATECOE

The Atebubu College of Education is a Teacher Education College in Atebubu (Atebubu-Amantin Municipal), Bono East Region, which was founded in October 1965. The College was the first second cycle institution, and the only Teacher Training College in the eastern corridor of the then Brong-Ahafo Region.

The College began with eighty male students but now has a student population of 1,745 comprising 890 men and 855 women.

It started with four-year Post Middle Teachers Certificate A courses. Other programmes the College has gone through are 2-year Post Secondary and 3-year Post Secondary. In the 1975/76 academic year, on admitting female students, the College became co-educational. In September 2004, the first batch of students was admitted into the college to pursue a three-year course for Diploma in Basic Education.

It runs dual-mode Open Distance Learning (ODL) for untrained teachers. The College is now a tertiary institution, affiliated with the University of Cape Coast and currently running 4-year degrees in Primary Education, Early Childhood Education and JHS Education.
02.07.2023 LISTEN

Ghana is the world's second-largest (approx.30% of market share) exporter of cocoa. It is known as the champion in producing the best cocoa beans in the world. Swiss gigantic chocolate manufacturer Lindt&Spruengli sources most of its cocoa from Ghana. The "Golden Tree" as cocoa trees are often referred to, is Ghana's real identity for all times, far ahead of its vast gold reserves.

Ghana's first President, Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, was well aware of this fact. To be seen in the industry as a qualified country dealing eye-to-eye with the Big Six in the market and harvesting the full potential of cocoa from beans to chocolate bars, he mandated in 1965 Joachim Burmeister from Hamburg-Othmarschen, Germany, Europe's expert No 1 of blessed memories to establish for him in Tema CPC Cocoa Processing Company Ltd. As a party policy CPC Ltd never faced the challenges of an entrepreneur driven entity. It produces chocolate products that are not competitive in the international markets. Even Ghanaians are tired of the same old portfolios.

Originally CPC Ltd employed at peak times 700 workers. Now 200 workers barely have a poor regular income. The company was once listed on Ghana Stock Exchange. Annually Ghana subsidizes CPC Ltd with $ 12-15 Mio.. Too much sugar content makes the chocolate bars marketable in the open markets and at street lights.

The EU warned Ghana to be boycotted as too many chemicals were detected in the cocoa beans. Galamsey, illegal gold mining, destroys many cocoa farms with mercury found in the surrounding water bodies. Cocobord, mandated to manage this national sector, has no farms and no direct control of the planting process yet still sees chemicals, not organic farming, as the future of Ghana's 800.000 petty cocoa farmers.

Right before the eyes of Ghanaians and the entire world, Ghana currently destroys the future of future generations. Politicians and traditional rulers often benefit from illegal mining Galamsey more than cocoa farming. They have their family and friends' interests at heart, not the future of the nation.

Profit traditionally in this sector comes from trading and manufacturing, not growing cocoa beans. Good ideas can help Ghana to stand proud as the country producing the best chocolate in the world, but the political parties of Ghana, all of them, allow the white man to exploit the nation's treasure and mock them, not being able to harvest the full potential of the God-given blessings. In fact, when good ideas are presented to them, they mock such persons and even try to steal their funds and ideas (an attempt happened to me via the nephew Thomas Akwasi Owusu-Afriye of the Otumfo Osei Tutu II).

Affected and wise people of the nation with sound minds and vision understand the trap and danger Ghana is in as we speak. You recognize them easily by the red color in their dark brown/black faces.
KYODO NEWS - Jul 2, 2023 - 21:31 | All, World

At least two people are dead and 28 others were injured in a mass shooting during a party in Baltimore on Sunday morning, local media reported.

Nine people were transported to local hospitals and three of the injured are in critical condition, according to the reports.

The shooting took place just after 12:30 a.m. at a block party in the southern part of the city, The Associated Press reported citing a local police officer.

All of the victims were adults. Police said an 18-year-old woman was found dead at the scene and a 20-year-old man was pronounced dead at a hospital shortly after, according to The Associated Press.

No arrests had been made immediately after the shooting, local reports said.

"This was a reckless, cowardly act that happened here," Baltimore Mayor Brandon M. Scott said at a news conference, adding "I want those who are responsible to hear me, and hear me very clearly. We will not stop until we find you, and we will find you."
Abrdn Global Dynamic Dividend Fund (NYSE:AGD  Free Report) was the target of a significant decline in short interest during the month of June. As of June 15th, there was short interest totalling 9,300 shares, a decline of 35.0% from the May 31st total of 14,300 shares. Based on an average daily trading volume, of 69,300 shares, the short-interest ratio is presently 0.1 days.

Institutional Trading of Abrdn Global Dynamic Dividend Fund

Hedge funds and other institutional investors have recently bought and sold shares of the company. LPL Financial LLC grew its holdings in shares of Abrdn Global Dynamic Dividend Fund by 1,822.8% during the first quarter. LPL Financial LLC now owns 400,511 shares of the companys stock valued at $3,737,000 after purchasing an additional 379,681 shares during the last quarter. Karpus Management Inc. bought a new position in shares of Abrdn Global Dynamic Dividend Fund during the first quarter valued at approximately $3,349,000. Bank of America Corp DE grew its holdings in shares of Abrdn Global Dynamic Dividend Fund by 101.7% during the first quarter. Bank of America Corp DE now owns 633,493 shares of the companys stock valued at $5,910,000 after purchasing an additional 319,463 shares during the last quarter. Heron Bay Capital Management bought a new position in shares of Abrdn Global Dynamic Dividend Fund during the first quarter worth about $2,223,000. Finally, Anfield Capital Management LLC bought a new position in shares of Abrdn Global Dynamic Dividend Fund during the first quarter worth about $3,361,000.

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Abrdn Global Dynamic Dividend Fund Stock Performance

Shares of Abrdn Global Dynamic Dividend Fund stock traded up $0.03 during trading on Friday, reaching $9.54. The company had a trading volume of 55,758 shares, compared to its average volume of 64,636. Abrdn Global Dynamic Dividend Fund has a fifty-two week low of $8.23 and a fifty-two week high of $10.61. The firms fifty day moving average is $9.36 and its 200-day moving average is $9.49.

Abrdn Global Dynamic Dividend Fund Dividend Announcement

Abrdn Global Dynamic Dividend Fund Company Profile

The company also recently disclosed a monthly dividend, which was paid on Friday, June 30th. Investors of record on Friday, June 23rd were issued a $0.065 dividend. This represents a $0.78 annualized dividend and a yield of 8.18%. The ex-dividend date was Thursday, June 22nd.

(Free Report)

abrdn Global Dynamic Dividend Fund is a mutual fund, closed-end investment trust. It focuses on long-term growth of capital and seeks high current dividend income. The company was founded on May 11, 2006 and is headquartered in Philadelphia, PA.

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Banco Bradesco S.A. (NYSE:BBD  Free Report) was the target of a large decline in short interest in the month of June. As of June 15th, there was short interest totalling 35,880,000 shares, a decline of 33.8% from the May 31st total of 54,160,000 shares. Based on an average daily volume of 25,750,000 shares, the short-interest ratio is currently 1.4 days.

Banco Bradesco Stock Performance

Shares of BBD stock traded up $0.12 during mid-day trading on Friday, reaching $3.46. 23,670,264 shares of the companys stock traded hands, compared to its average volume of 19,697,024. Banco Bradesco has a 12 month low of $2.34 and a 12 month high of $4.16. The firm has a 50 day moving average price of $3.21 and a two-hundred day moving average price of $2.87. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.44, a quick ratio of 0.72 and a current ratio of 0.72. The firm has a market capitalization of $36.88 billion, a PE ratio of 11.16, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 0.65 and a beta of 0.73.

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Banco Bradesco (NYSE:BBD  Free Report) last issued its earnings results on Thursday, May 4th. The bank reported $0.07 earnings per share for the quarter, hitting the consensus estimate of $0.07. The company had revenue of $9.82 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $5.43 billion. Banco Bradesco had a net margin of 9.54% and a return on equity of 11.66%. During the same quarter in the prior year, the firm posted $0.12 EPS. On average, research analysts forecast that Banco Bradesco will post 0.37 EPS for the current year.

Banco Bradesco Increases Dividend

Institutional Inflows and Outflows

The company also recently announced a monthly dividend, which will be paid on Tuesday, August 8th. Investors of record on Wednesday, July 5th will be issued a $0.0039 dividend. The ex-dividend date is Monday, July 3rd. This represents a $0.05 annualized dividend and a yield of 1.36%. This is an increase from Banco Bradescos previous monthly dividend of $0.00. Banco Bradescos dividend payout ratio is currently 19.35%.

Several hedge funds have recently bought and sold shares of the company. Oppenheimer Asset Management Inc. purchased a new stake in Banco Bradesco in the 4th quarter worth $115,000. Thomas White International Ltd. purchased a new stake in Banco Bradesco in the 3rd quarter worth $4,864,000. Profund Advisors LLC lifted its stake in Banco Bradesco by 33.5% in the 4th quarter. Profund Advisors LLC now owns 234,602 shares of the banks stock worth $676,000 after purchasing an additional 58,867 shares in the last quarter. Single Point Partners LLC purchased a new stake in Banco Bradesco in the 1st quarter worth $128,000. Finally, Thrivent Financial for Lutherans raised its position in shares of Banco Bradesco by 144.8% during the 4th quarter. Thrivent Financial for Lutherans now owns 168,408 shares of the banks stock valued at $485,000 after buying an additional 99,614 shares in the last quarter. Institutional investors own 1.54% of the companys stock.

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

Separately, Barclays cut their price objective on shares of Banco Bradesco from $3.50 to $3.00 and set an equal weight rating for the company in a research report on Tuesday, March 7th. Five research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and four have given a buy rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the stock presently has an average rating of Hold and an average target price of $11.93.

Banco Bradesco Company Profile

(Free Report)

Banco Bradesco SA, together with its subsidiaries, provides various banking products and services to individuals, corporates, and businesses in Brazil and internationally. The company operates through two segments, Banking and Insurance. It provides current, savings, click, and salary accounts; real estate credit, vehicle financing, payroll loans, mortgage loans, microcredit, leasing, and personal and installment credit; debit and business cards; financial and security services; consortium products; auto, personal accident, dental, travel, and life insurance; investment products; pension products; real estate and vehicle auctions; cash management, and foreign trade and exchange services; capitalization bonds; and internet banking services.

Further Reading

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Banco Bradesco S.A. (NYSE:BBDO  Free Report) saw a significant decline in short interest in the month of June. As of June 15th, there was short interest totalling 5,000 shares, a decline of 57.6% from the May 31st total of 11,800 shares. Based on an average daily volume of 18,000 shares, the short-interest ratio is presently 0.3 days.

Institutional Investors Weigh In On Banco Bradesco

A number of institutional investors and hedge funds have recently made changes to their positions in the stock. Jane Street Group LLC purchased a new stake in shares of Banco Bradesco in the 1st quarter valued at $56,000. Northern Trust Corp increased its stake in Banco Bradesco by 11.8% during the 2nd quarter. Northern Trust Corp now owns 138,498 shares of the banks stock worth $378,000 after buying an additional 14,610 shares during the period. Envestnet Asset Management Inc. purchased a new stake in Banco Bradesco during the 3rd quarter worth approximately $36,000. Citadel Advisors LLC increased its stake in Banco Bradesco by 43.4% during the 3rd quarter. Citadel Advisors LLC now owns 17,012 shares of the banks stock worth $51,000 after buying an additional 5,151 shares during the period. Finally, Itau Unibanco Holding S.A. purchased a new stake in Banco Bradesco during the 4th quarter worth approximately $50,660,000. 0.01% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

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Banco Bradesco Trading Up 2.0 %

NYSE:BBDO traded up $0.06 on Friday, reaching $3.01. The companys stock had a trading volume of 45,312 shares, compared to its average volume of 16,816. Banco Bradesco has a 12-month low of $2.12 and a 12-month high of $3.35. The company has a quick ratio of 0.72, a current ratio of 0.72 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.44. The firm has a market cap of $32.08 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 9.71 and a beta of 0.87. The stock has a 50 day moving average price of $2.74 and a 200 day moving average price of $2.52.

Banco Bradesco Increases Dividend

Banco Bradesco ( NYSE:BBDO Free Report ) last posted its earnings results on Thursday, May 4th. The bank reported $0.07 EPS for the quarter. Banco Bradesco had a return on equity of 11.66% and a net margin of 9.54%. The company had revenue of $9.82 billion for the quarter.

The business also recently declared a monthly dividend, which will be paid on Tuesday, August 8th. Stockholders of record on Wednesday, July 5th will be paid a $0.0036 dividend. This represents a $0.04 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 1.42%. This is an increase from Banco Bradescos previous monthly dividend of $0.00. The ex-dividend date is Monday, July 3rd. Banco Bradescos payout ratio is 19.35%.

About Banco Bradesco

(Free Report)

Banco Bradesco SA, together with its subsidiaries, provides various banking products and services to individuals, corporates, and businesses in Brazil and internationally. The company operates through two segments, Banking and Insurance. It provides current, savings, click, and salary accounts; real estate credit, vehicle financing, payroll loans, mortgage loans, microcredit, leasing, and personal and installment credit; debit and business cards; financial and security services; consortium products; auto, personal accident, dental, travel, and life insurance; investment products; pension products; real estate and vehicle auctions; cash management, and foreign trade and exchange services; capitalization bonds; and internet banking services.

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Wedbush upgraded shares of Beazer Homes USA (NYSE:BZH  Free Report) from a neutral rating to an outperform rating in a report published on Wednesday morning, MarketBeat.com reports. The brokerage currently has $31.00 target price on the construction companys stock. Wedbush also issued estimates for Beazer Homes USAs Q1 2024 earnings at $0.67 EPS, Q2 2024 earnings at $1.10 EPS, Q3 2024 earnings at $1.32 EPS, Q4 2024 earnings at $1.59 EPS, FY2024 earnings at $4.67 EPS, Q1 2025 earnings at $0.78 EPS, Q2 2025 earnings at $1.21 EPS and FY2025 earnings at $5.24 EPS.

A number of other equities research analysts also recently weighed in on the stock. StockNews.com started coverage on Beazer Homes USA in a research note on Thursday, May 18th. They issued a hold rating for the company. B. Riley lifted their price objective on shares of Beazer Homes USA from $22.00 to $28.00 in a research note on Monday, June 26th.

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Beazer Homes USA Stock Up 1.5 %

Beazer Homes USA stock opened at $28.29 on Wednesday. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.99, a current ratio of 16.37 and a quick ratio of 2.46. The companys 50-day moving average is $21.55 and its 200-day moving average is $17.17. The firm has a market capitalization of $886.89 million, a PE ratio of 4.35 and a beta of 2.17. Beazer Homes USA has a fifty-two week low of $9.47 and a fifty-two week high of $28.50.

Hedge Funds Weigh In On Beazer Homes USA

Beazer Homes USA ( NYSE:BZH Free Report ) last posted its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, April 27th. The construction company reported $1.13 earnings per share for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $0.84 by $0.29. Beazer Homes USA had a return on equity of 21.32% and a net margin of 8.54%. The business had revenue of $543.91 million for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $519.91 million. During the same quarter in the prior year, the business earned $1.45 EPS. The firms revenue for the quarter was up 7.0% on a year-over-year basis. Sell-side analysts anticipate that Beazer Homes USA will post 3.95 earnings per share for the current year.

Institutional investors and hedge funds have recently added to or reduced their stakes in the stock. BlackRock Inc. increased its holdings in shares of Beazer Homes USA by 0.3% during the first quarter. BlackRock Inc. now owns 2,659,506 shares of the construction companys stock worth $42,233,000 after buying an additional 9,216 shares in the last quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. increased its holdings in Beazer Homes USA by 6.6% in the 1st quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 1,759,636 shares of the construction companys stock worth $26,782,000 after purchasing an additional 108,173 shares in the last quarter. Apollo Management Holdings L.P. bought a new position in Beazer Homes USA in the first quarter valued at about $21,323,000. Dimensional Fund Advisors LP boosted its stake in shares of Beazer Homes USA by 15.1% during the first quarter. Dimensional Fund Advisors LP now owns 1,081,091 shares of the construction companys stock valued at $17,166,000 after purchasing an additional 141,924 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Acadian Asset Management LLC grew its holdings in shares of Beazer Homes USA by 4.6% during the first quarter. Acadian Asset Management LLC now owns 1,012,418 shares of the construction companys stock worth $16,070,000 after purchasing an additional 44,397 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors own 77.62% of the companys stock.

About Beazer Homes USA

(Free Report)

Beazer Homes USA, Inc operates as a homebuilder in the United States. It designs, constructs, and sells single-family and multi-family homes under the Beazer Homes, Gatherings, and Choice Plans names. The company sells its homes through commissioned new home sales counselors and independent brokers in Arizona, California, Nevada, Texas, Indiana, Delaware, Maryland, Tennessee, Virginia, Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, and South Carolina.

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Bright Horizons Family Solutions Inc. (NYSE:BFAM  Free Report) was the target of a significant growth in short interest in June. As of June 15th, there was short interest totalling 2,910,000 shares, a growth of 96.6% from the May 31st total of 1,480,000 shares. Based on an average daily trading volume, of 446,800 shares, the days-to-cover ratio is presently 6.5 days. Approximately 5.1% of the shares of the stock are short sold.

Bright Horizons Family Solutions Stock Up 1.9 %

NYSE:BFAM traded up $1.73 during mid-day trading on Friday, hitting $92.45. The stock had a trading volume of 440,189 shares, compared to its average volume of 447,595. The stock has a 50-day simple moving average of $86.83 and a two-hundred day simple moving average of $78.96. The company has a market capitalization of $5.34 billion, a PE ratio of 78.35 and a beta of 1.21. Bright Horizons Family Solutions has a twelve month low of $54.19 and a twelve month high of $95.53. The company has a current ratio of 0.47, a quick ratio of 0.47 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.87.

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Bright Horizons Family Solutions (NYSE:BFAM  Free Report) last issued its earnings results on Tuesday, May 2nd. The company reported $0.39 earnings per share for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $0.37 by $0.02. Bright Horizons Family Solutions had a net margin of 3.28% and a return on equity of 12.08%. The firm had revenue of $553.61 million for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $531.41 million. During the same quarter last year, the company earned $0.39 earnings per share. The firms revenue was up 20.2% compared to the same quarter last year. On average, equities research analysts anticipate that Bright Horizons Family Solutions will post 2.4 EPS for the current year.

Insider Transactions at Bright Horizons Family Solutions

Institutional Trading of Bright Horizons Family Solutions

In related news, Director Lightfoot Sara Lawrence sold 2,282 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated Wednesday, May 24th. The shares were sold at an average price of $82.25, for a total value of $187,694.50. Following the completion of the sale, the director now owns 4,435 shares of the companys stock, valued at $364,778.75. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at the SEC website . In related news, Director Lightfoot Sara Lawrence sold 2,282 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated Wednesday, May 24th. The shares were sold at an average price of $82.25, for a total value of $187,694.50. Following the completion of the sale, the director now owns 4,435 shares of the companys stock, valued at $364,778.75. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at the SEC website . Also, CEO Stephen Howard Kramer sold 4,800 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated Monday, May 8th. The shares were sold at an average price of $90.44, for a total transaction of $434,112.00. Following the completion of the sale, the chief executive officer now directly owns 137,518 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $12,437,127.92. The disclosure for this sale can be found here . Insiders sold 29,762 shares of company stock valued at $2,638,463 over the last 90 days. 1.20% of the stock is currently owned by corporate insiders.

A number of hedge funds and other institutional investors have recently added to or reduced their stakes in BFAM. Raymond James Financial Services Advisors Inc. acquired a new stake in Bright Horizons Family Solutions during the first quarter worth approximately $213,000. American Century Companies Inc. grew its position in shares of Bright Horizons Family Solutions by 9.6% during the first quarter. American Century Companies Inc. now owns 1,885 shares of the companys stock worth $250,000 after acquiring an additional 165 shares during the last quarter. Citigroup Inc. grew its position in shares of Bright Horizons Family Solutions by 70.4% during the first quarter. Citigroup Inc. now owns 9,624 shares of the companys stock worth $1,277,000 after acquiring an additional 3,975 shares during the last quarter. MetLife Investment Management LLC purchased a new position in shares of Bright Horizons Family Solutions during the first quarter worth approximately $444,000. Finally, Raymond James Trust N.A. grew its position in shares of Bright Horizons Family Solutions by 12.5% during the first quarter. Raymond James Trust N.A. now owns 3,972 shares of the companys stock worth $527,000 after acquiring an additional 440 shares during the last quarter.

Analyst Ratings Changes

Several research analysts have weighed in on BFAM shares. Citigroup lowered shares of Bright Horizons Family Solutions from a buy rating to a neutral rating and increased their target price for the stock from $95.00 to $101.00 in a research note on Friday, May 12th. UBS Group assumed coverage on shares of Bright Horizons Family Solutions in a research report on Wednesday, May 31st. They set a sell rating and a $79.00 price target on the stock. Morgan Stanley increased their price target on shares of Bright Horizons Family Solutions from $57.00 to $61.00 in a research report on Monday, June 26th. Finally, StockNews.com cut shares of Bright Horizons Family Solutions from a hold rating to a sell rating in a research report on Wednesday. Three equities research analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, three have issued a hold rating and two have issued a buy rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the company currently has a consensus rating of Hold and an average target price of $79.00.

Bright Horizons Family Solutions Company Profile

(Free Report)

Bright Horizons Family Solutions Inc provides early education and childcare, back-up care, educational advisory, and other workplace solutions services for employers and families. The company operates through three segments: Full Service Center-Based Child Care, Back-Up Care, and Educational Advisory and Other Services.

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CACI International Inc (NYSE:CACI  Free Report) saw a significant growth in short interest in the month of June. As of June 15th, there was short interest totalling 489,800 shares, a growth of 75.1% from the May 31st total of 279,800 shares. Approximately 2.2% of the shares of the company are sold short. Based on an average daily volume of 158,200 shares, the short-interest ratio is presently 3.1 days.

Insider Activity

In other news, Director Gregory G. Johnson sold 150 shares of the firms stock in a transaction on Tuesday, June 13th. The stock was sold at an average price of $320.30, for a total transaction of $48,045.00. Following the transaction, the director now directly owns 5,958 shares of the companys stock, valued at $1,908,347.40. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through the SEC website. Corporate insiders own 1.23% of the companys stock.

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Institutional Investors Weigh In On CACI International

A number of institutional investors have recently bought and sold shares of the business. Dark Forest Capital Management LP grew its stake in shares of CACI International by 262.5% in the 4th quarter. Dark Forest Capital Management LP now owns 87 shares of the information technology services providers stock valued at $26,000 after buying an additional 63 shares in the last quarter. ST Germain D J Co. Inc. bought a new stake in shares of CACI International in the 4th quarter valued at approximately $36,000. Van ECK Associates Corp bought a new stake in shares of CACI International in the 1st quarter valued at approximately $39,000. GPS Wealth Strategies Group LLC bought a new stake in shares of CACI International in the 1st quarter valued at approximately $49,000. Finally, Quent Capital LLC boosted its position in CACI International by 33.0% during the first quarter. Quent Capital LLC now owns 234 shares of the information technology services providers stock worth $69,000 after purchasing an additional 58 shares during the period. 89.34% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

CACI International Trading Up 0.7 %

CACI traded up $2.44 during trading on Friday, reaching $340.84. The company had a trading volume of 121,035 shares, compared to its average volume of 173,134. CACI International has a 12-month low of $245.32 and a 12-month high of $342.83. The company has a market cap of $7.77 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 21.71, a PEG ratio of 2.29 and a beta of 0.97. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.57, a quick ratio of 1.23 and a current ratio of 1.23. The firms 50-day simple moving average is $312.23 and its 200 day simple moving average is $302.49.

CACI International (NYSE:CACI  Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings data on Wednesday, April 26th. The information technology services provider reported $4.92 EPS for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $4.64 by $0.28. CACI International had a return on equity of 13.60% and a net margin of 5.57%. The firm had revenue of $1.74 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $1.66 billion. During the same period last year, the company posted $4.64 EPS. The businesss quarterly revenue was up 10.1% compared to the same quarter last year. Equities research analysts anticipate that CACI International will post 18.4 earnings per share for the current year.

Analyst Ratings Changes

A number of research firms recently issued reports on CACI. Stifel Nicolaus lifted their target price on CACI International from $315.00 to $360.00 in a report on Thursday, June 22nd. 888 reaffirmed a maintains rating on shares of CACI International in a report on Friday, April 28th. Finally, StockNews.com began coverage on CACI International in a research note on Thursday, May 18th. They issued a buy rating on the stock. Five research analysts have rated the stock with a buy rating, According to data from MarketBeat, CACI International currently has an average rating of Buy and an average price target of $341.83.

CACI International Company Profile

(Free Report)

CACI International Inc, together with its subsidiaries, provides expertise and technology to enterprise and mission customers in support of national security missions and government modernization/transformation in the intelligence, defense, and federal civilian sectors. It operates in two segments, Domestic Operations and International Operations.

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Callon Petroleum (NYSE:CPE  Free Report) had its price target upped by equities research analysts at Mizuho from $54.00 to $59.00 in a report issued on Friday, The Fly reports. Mizuhos price objective suggests a potential upside of 68.23% from the companys current price.

Several other research analysts also recently weighed in on the company. Truist Financial lifted their target price on Callon Petroleum from $55.00 to $71.00 in a research note on Monday, May 8th. Citigroup lowered their target price on Callon Petroleum from $40.00 to $36.00 in a research note on Sunday, May 21st. Morgan Stanley lowered their target price on Callon Petroleum from $45.00 to $43.00 and set an equal weight rating on the stock in a research note on Wednesday, April 19th. Royal Bank of Canada reiterated an outperform rating and issued a $60.00 target price on shares of Callon Petroleum in a research note on Wednesday, March 22nd. Finally, StockNews.com assumed coverage on Callon Petroleum in a research note on Thursday, May 18th. They issued a hold rating on the stock. Six investment analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and four have issued a buy rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the stock currently has an average rating of Hold and a consensus target price of $56.13.

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Callon Petroleum Trading Up 0.5 %

NYSE:CPE opened at $35.07 on Friday. The stocks 50 day moving average price is $32.66 and its 200 day moving average price is $35.57. The company has a market capitalization of $2.17 billion, a PE ratio of 1.56 and a beta of 2.75. The company has a quick ratio of 0.39, a current ratio of 0.39 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.60. Callon Petroleum has a 52-week low of $28.91 and a 52-week high of $50.19.

Insider Activity at Callon Petroleum

Callon Petroleum ( NYSE:CPE Free Report ) last released its quarterly earnings results on Wednesday, May 3rd. The oil and natural gas company reported $1.94 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of $1.96 by ($0.02). The firm had revenue of $560.00 million for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $535.29 million. Callon Petroleum had a return on equity of 27.29% and a net margin of 46.15%. The companys quarterly revenue was down 27.9% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same quarter in the prior year, the business earned $3.43 EPS. On average, research analysts anticipate that Callon Petroleum will post 8.27 EPS for the current year.

In other Callon Petroleum news, Director Steven A. Webster purchased 10,000 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Thursday, May 11th. The shares were purchased at an average cost of $30.24 per share, for a total transaction of $302,400.00. Following the completion of the purchase, the director now directly owns 592,824 shares in the company, valued at $17,926,997.76. The acquisition was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which can be accessed through the SEC website. In other news, Director Steven A. Webster acquired 10,000 shares of Callon Petroleum stock in a transaction that occurred on Thursday, May 11th. The stock was purchased at an average cost of $30.24 per share, with a total value of $302,400.00. Following the completion of the acquisition, the director now owns 592,824 shares in the company, valued at approximately $17,926,997.76. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through the SEC website. Also, Director Steven A. Webster acquired 20,000 shares of Callon Petroleum stock in a transaction that occurred on Tuesday, May 9th. The shares were purchased at an average cost of $31.63 per share, with a total value of $632,600.00. Following the completion of the acquisition, the director now owns 562,824 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $17,802,123.12. The disclosure for this purchase can be found here. Insiders have acquired a total of 37,384 shares of company stock worth $1,160,212 over the last three months. 1.80% of the stock is currently owned by corporate insiders.

Hedge Funds Weigh In On Callon Petroleum

Several hedge funds and other institutional investors have recently bought and sold shares of the company. Duality Advisers LP acquired a new position in Callon Petroleum during the first quarter worth $463,000. Squarepoint Ops LLC raised its holdings in Callon Petroleum by 1,893.2% during the first quarter. Squarepoint Ops LLC now owns 138,543 shares of the oil and natural gas companys stock worth $4,633,000 after purchasing an additional 146,269 shares during the last quarter. Geode Capital Management LLC raised its holdings in Callon Petroleum by 4.4% during the first quarter. Geode Capital Management LLC now owns 936,280 shares of the oil and natural gas companys stock worth $31,309,000 after purchasing an additional 39,777 shares during the last quarter. Graham Capital Management L.P. raised its holdings in Callon Petroleum by 110.8% during the first quarter. Graham Capital Management L.P. now owns 144,952 shares of the oil and natural gas companys stock worth $4,847,000 after purchasing an additional 76,195 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Alberta Investment Management Corp acquired a new position in Callon Petroleum during the first quarter worth $235,000. 92.46% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

About Callon Petroleum

(Free Report)

Callon Petroleum Company, an independent oil and natural gas company, focuses on the acquisition, exploration, and development of oil and natural gas properties in West Texas. The company was founded in 1950 and is headquartered in Houston, Texas.

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StockNews.com upgraded shares of Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce (NYSE:CM  Free Report) (TSE:CM) from a sell rating to a hold rating in a report published on Thursday morning.

Several other equities analysts have also commented on the company. Canaccord Genuity Group raised Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce from a hold rating to a buy rating in a research report on Wednesday, May 10th. CIBC upgraded shares of Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce from a hold rating to a buy rating in a research note on Tuesday, May 9th. One research analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, six have issued a hold rating and two have assigned a buy rating to the company. According to MarketBeat, Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce presently has an average rating of Hold and an average target price of $70.40.

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Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce Stock Performance

NYSE CM opened at $42.68 on Thursday. The company has a fifty day moving average of $42.09 and a 200-day moving average of $42.84. The company has a market capitalization of $39.18 billion, a P/E ratio of 10.78, a P/E/G ratio of 1.66 and a beta of 1.01. Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce has a 52-week low of $39.40 and a 52-week high of $53.36. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.14, a quick ratio of 1.06 and a current ratio of 1.06.

Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce Increases Dividend

Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce ( NYSE:CM Free Report ) (TSE:CM) last announced its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, May 25th. The bank reported $1.25 earnings per share for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $1.20 by $0.05. The firm had revenue of $4.21 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $4.15 billion. Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce had a return on equity of 14.13% and a net margin of 11.14%. As a group, equities research analysts predict that Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce will post 5.12 EPS for the current fiscal year.

The firm also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, July 28th. Shareholders of record on Wednesday, June 28th will be paid a dividend of $0.642 per share. This represents a $2.57 annualized dividend and a yield of 6.02%. This is a boost from Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerces previous quarterly dividend of $0.64. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Tuesday, June 27th. Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerces payout ratio is presently 64.65%.

Hedge Funds Weigh In On Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce

Several hedge funds and other institutional investors have recently added to or reduced their stakes in the stock. K.J. Harrison & Partners Inc lifted its holdings in shares of Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce by 5.2% in the 4th quarter. K.J. Harrison & Partners Inc now owns 41,655 shares of the banks stock worth $2,281,444,000 after acquiring an additional 2,041 shares during the last quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. increased its stake in Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce by 3.6% in the 3rd quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 31,644,399 shares of the banks stock valued at $1,384,759,000 after buying an additional 1,107,934 shares during the period. Lantz Financial LLC acquired a new position in Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce during the 1st quarter worth approximately $204,000. Clear Street Markets LLC acquired a new position in Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce during the 4th quarter worth approximately $110,000. Finally, Te Ahumairangi Investment Management Ltd grew its stake in shares of Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce by 0.8% during the 4th quarter. Te Ahumairangi Investment Management Ltd now owns 90,566 shares of the banks stock worth $3,661,000 after purchasing an additional 700 shares during the period. 37.70% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce Company Profile

(Free Report)

Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce, a diversified financial institution, provides various financial products and services to personal, business, public sector, and institutional clients in Canada, the United States, and internationally. The company operates through Canadian Personal and Business Banking; Canadian Commercial Banking and Wealth Management; U.S.

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Consolidated Edison (NYSE:ED  Free Report) had its price objective decreased by Bank of America from $96.00 to $92.00 in a research note published on Wednesday morning, The Fly reports.

Several other research firms have also issued reports on ED. Morgan Stanley lifted their price target on shares of Consolidated Edison from $70.00 to $77.00 and gave the stock an underweight rating in a research report on Thursday, April 20th. 3M restated a maintains rating on shares of Consolidated Edison in a research report on Friday, May 5th. Guggenheim lifted their price target on shares of Consolidated Edison from $86.00 to $90.00 in a research report on Monday, May 8th. StockNews.com initiated coverage on shares of Consolidated Edison in a research report on Thursday, May 18th. They issued a hold rating on the stock. Finally, The Goldman Sachs Group assumed coverage on shares of Consolidated Edison in a research report on Wednesday, June 7th. They set a sell rating and a $88.00 price objective on the stock. Five equities research analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, six have given a hold rating and one has assigned a buy rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat, the stock currently has an average rating of Hold and an average target price of $90.38.

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Consolidated Edison Price Performance

NYSE ED opened at $90.40 on Wednesday. Consolidated Edison has a 12 month low of $78.10 and a 12 month high of $102.21. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.99, a current ratio of 1.20 and a quick ratio of 1.11. The firm has a market capitalization of $31.33 billion, a PE ratio of 12.88, a P/E/G ratio of 9.22 and a beta of 0.38. The companys 50 day simple moving average is $94.84 and its 200 day simple moving average is $94.76.

Consolidated Edison Dividend Announcement

Consolidated Edison ( NYSE:ED Free Report ) last posted its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, May 4th. The utilities provider reported $1.83 EPS for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $1.62 by $0.21. Consolidated Edison had a net margin of 15.56% and a return on equity of 8.36%. The business had revenue of $4.40 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $4.01 billion. During the same quarter last year, the business earned $1.47 earnings per share. The businesss revenue for the quarter was up 8.4% on a year-over-year basis. As a group, equities research analysts forecast that Consolidated Edison will post 4.86 EPS for the current fiscal year.

The business also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Thursday, June 15th. Stockholders of record on Wednesday, May 17th were issued a dividend of $0.81 per share. This represents a $3.24 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 3.58%. The ex-dividend date was Tuesday, May 16th. Consolidated Edisons dividend payout ratio is currently 46.15%.

Hedge Funds Weigh In On Consolidated Edison

Several institutional investors and hedge funds have recently modified their holdings of ED. EP Wealth Advisors LLC bought a new stake in Consolidated Edison in the first quarter worth $409,000. Level Four Advisory Services LLC boosted its holdings in Consolidated Edison by 44.1% in the first quarter. Level Four Advisory Services LLC now owns 8,421 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $806,000 after purchasing an additional 2,577 shares in the last quarter. Ontario Teachers Pension Plan Board boosted its holdings in Consolidated Edison by 88.9% in the first quarter. Ontario Teachers Pension Plan Board now owns 48,416 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $4,632,000 after purchasing an additional 22,790 shares in the last quarter. Fortis Group Advisors LLC bought a new stake in Consolidated Edison in the first quarter worth $2,524,000. Finally, Empower Advisory Group LLC bought a new stake in Consolidated Edison in the first quarter worth $11,057,000. 67.30% of the stock is currently owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

About Consolidated Edison

(Free Report)

Consolidated Edison, Inc, through its subsidiaries, engages in the regulated electric, gas, and steam delivery businesses in the United States. It offers electric services to approximately 3.6 million customers in New York City and Westchester County; gas to approximately 1.1 million customers in Manhattan, the Bronx, parts of Queens, and Westchester County; and steam to approximately 1,530 customers in parts of Manhattan.

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Chatham Lodging Trust (NYSE:CLDT  Free Report) and American Hotel Income Properties REIT (OTCMKTS:AHOTF  Free Report) are both finance companies, but which is the superior stock? We will contrast the two businesses based on the strength of their institutional ownership, valuation, analyst recommendations, earnings, profitability, risk and dividends.

Earnings and Valuation

This table compares Chatham Lodging Trust and American Hotel Income Properties REITs top-line revenue, earnings per share and valuation.

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Gross Revenue Price/Sales Ratio Net Income Earnings Per Share Price/Earnings Ratio Chatham Lodging Trust $294.85 million 1.55 $9.81 million $0.14 66.86 American Hotel Income Properties REIT N/A N/A N/A $0.06 29.80

Chatham Lodging Trust has higher revenue and earnings than American Hotel Income Properties REIT. American Hotel Income Properties REIT is trading at a lower price-to-earnings ratio than Chatham Lodging Trust, indicating that it is currently the more affordable of the two stocks.

Analyst Recommendations

Sell Ratings Hold Ratings Buy Ratings Strong Buy Ratings Rating Score Chatham Lodging Trust 0 0 3 0 3.00 American Hotel Income Properties REIT 0 0 0 0 N/A

This is a summary of recent ratings and target prices for Chatham Lodging Trust and American Hotel Income Properties REIT, as reported by MarketBeat.com.

Chatham Lodging Trust presently has a consensus price target of $15.33, indicating a potential upside of 63.82%. American Hotel Income Properties REIT has a consensus price target of $3.08, indicating a potential upside of 70.27%. Given American Hotel Income Properties REITs higher possible upside, analysts plainly believe American Hotel Income Properties REIT is more favorable than Chatham Lodging Trust.

Profitability

This table compares Chatham Lodging Trust and American Hotel Income Properties REITs net margins, return on equity and return on assets.

Net Margins Return on Equity Return on Assets Chatham Lodging Trust 4.68% 1.76% 1.07% American Hotel Income Properties REIT N/A N/A N/A

Insider & Institutional Ownership

92.7% of Chatham Lodging Trust shares are held by institutional investors. Comparatively, 10.3% of American Hotel Income Properties REIT shares are held by institutional investors. 5.2% of Chatham Lodging Trust shares are held by company insiders. Strong institutional ownership is an indication that endowments, hedge funds and large money managers believe a company will outperform the market over the long term.

Dividends

Chatham Lodging Trust pays an annual dividend of $0.28 per share and has a dividend yield of 3.0%. American Hotel Income Properties REIT pays an annual dividend of $0.76 per share and has a dividend yield of 41.8%. Chatham Lodging Trust pays out 200.0% of its earnings in the form of a dividend, suggesting it may not have sufficient earnings to cover its dividend payment in the future. American Hotel Income Properties REIT pays out 1,245.1% of its earnings in the form of a dividend, suggesting it may not have sufficient earnings to cover its dividend payment in the future.

Summary

Chatham Lodging Trust beats American Hotel Income Properties REIT on 10 of the 12 factors compared between the two stocks.

About Chatham Lodging Trust

(Free Report)

Chatham Lodging Trust is a self-advised, publicly traded real estate investment trust (REIT) focused primarily on investing in upscale, extended-stay hotels and premium-branded, select-service hotels. The company owns 39 hotels totaling 5,915 rooms/suites in 16 states and the District of Columbia.

About American Hotel Income Properties REIT

(Free Report)

American Hotel Income Properties REIT LP (TSX: HOT.UN, TSX: HOT.U, TSX: HOT.DB.V), or AHIP, is a limited partnership formed to invest in hotel real estate properties across the United States. AHIP's portfolio of premium branded, select-service hotels are located in secondary metropolitan markets that benefit from diverse and stable demand. AHIP hotels operate under brands affiliated with Marriott, Hilton, IHG and Choice Hotels through license agreements. AHIP's long-term objectives are to build on its proven track record of successful investment, deliver monthly U.S. dollar denominated distributions to unitholders, and generate value through the continued growth of its diversified hotel portfolio.

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The 19th Western China International Fair in Chengdu, capital of southwest China's Sichuan Province, has attracted over 3,500 enterprises from 56 countries and regions.

Over 60,000 distinguished guests and merchants from home and abroad are estimated to attend the event from Thursday to next Monday in person or online.

The expo has a total exhibition area of 200,000 square meters, showcasing the Belt and Road cooperation and the development of the western regions and the digital economy and hydrogen industry.

Organizers plan to hold 50 activities, including over 30 investment promotion activities.

Thailand is the guest country of honor at the fair this year, and 17 countries, including Thailand, Belarus, Chile, Australia, and Pakistan, have set up their national pavilions.





Produced by Xinhua Global Service
Cyrela Brazil Realty S.A. Empreendimentos e Participacoes (OTCMKTS:CYRBY  Free Report) and Taylor Wimpey (OTCMKTS:TWODF  Free Report) are both finance companies, but which is the superior investment? We will contrast the two businesses based on the strength of their profitability, risk, institutional ownership, valuation, dividends, earnings and analyst recommendations.

Profitability

This table compares Cyrela Brazil Realty S.A. Empreendimentos e Participacoes and Taylor Wimpeys net margins, return on equity and return on assets.

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Net Margins Return on Equity Return on Assets Cyrela Brazil Realty S.A. Empreendimentos e Participacoes N/A N/A N/A Taylor Wimpey N/A N/A N/A

Dividends

Cyrela Brazil Realty S.A. Empreendimentos e Participacoes pays an annual dividend of $0.08 per share and has a dividend yield of 2.1%. Taylor Wimpey pays an annual dividend of $0.01 per share and has a dividend yield of 0.4%. Cyrela Brazil Realty S.A. Empreendimentos e Participacoes pays out 18.6% of its earnings in the form of a dividend. Taylor Wimpey pays out 7.9% of its earnings in the form of a dividend. Both companies have healthy payout ratios and should be able to cover their dividend payments with earnings for the next several years.

Insider & Institutional Ownership

Analyst Recommendations

0.0% of Cyrela Brazil Realty S.A. Empreendimentos e Participacoes shares are held by institutional investors. Comparatively, 39.9% of Taylor Wimpey shares are held by institutional investors. Strong institutional ownership is an indication that hedge funds, large money managers and endowments believe a company is poised for long-term growth.

This is a breakdown of current recommendations and price targets for Cyrela Brazil Realty S.A. Empreendimentos e Participacoes and Taylor Wimpey, as reported by MarketBeat.com.

Sell Ratings Hold Ratings Buy Ratings Strong Buy Ratings Rating Score Cyrela Brazil Realty S.A. Empreendimentos e Participacoes 0 1 1 0 2.50 Taylor Wimpey 1 6 1 0 2.00

Taylor Wimpey has a consensus price target of $130.20, indicating a potential upside of 8,213.99%. Given Taylor Wimpeys higher probable upside, analysts plainly believe Taylor Wimpey is more favorable than Cyrela Brazil Realty S.A. Empreendimentos e Participacoes.

Valuation and Earnings

This table compares Cyrela Brazil Realty S.A. Empreendimentos e Participacoes and Taylor Wimpeys revenue, earnings per share (EPS) and valuation.

Gross Revenue Price/Sales Ratio Net Income Earnings Per Share Price/Earnings Ratio Cyrela Brazil Realty S.A. Empreendimentos e Participacoes $888.00 million 1.67 $169.36 million $0.43 8.95 Taylor Wimpey N/A N/A N/A $0.09 17.89

Cyrela Brazil Realty S.A. Empreendimentos e Participacoes has higher revenue and earnings than Taylor Wimpey. Cyrela Brazil Realty S.A. Empreendimentos e Participacoes is trading at a lower price-to-earnings ratio than Taylor Wimpey, indicating that it is currently the more affordable of the two stocks.

About Cyrela Brazil Realty S.A. Empreendimentos e Participacoes

(Free Report)

Cyrela Brazil Realty S.A. Empreendimentos e Participacoes develops, constructs, and sells residential properties in Brazil. The company also provides consultancy services related to real estate. It offers properties under the Cyrela, Living, Vivaz, and Cyrela Urbanismo brand names. The company was founded in 1962 and is headquartered in Sao Paulo, Brazil.

About Taylor Wimpey

(Free Report)

Taylor Wimpey plc operates a residential developer in the United Kingdom and Spain. It builds and delivers various homes and communities. Taylor Wimpey plc was incorporated in 1935 and is based in High Wycombe, the United Kingdom.

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Delta Air Lines (NYSE:DAL  Free Report) had its price target raised by Susquehanna from $45.00 to $54.00 in a research note published on Wednesday, The Fly reports.

DAL has been the topic of several other reports. Bank of America lifted their price target on shares of Delta Air Lines from $40.00 to $48.00 in a report on Monday, June 26th. Jefferies Financial Group lifted their price target on shares of Delta Air Lines from $45.00 to $50.00 in a report on Tuesday, June 27th. Raymond James boosted their price objective on shares of Delta Air Lines from $53.00 to $54.00 and gave the company a strong-buy rating in a report on Monday, April 3rd. Morgan Stanley started coverage on shares of Delta Air Lines in a report on Wednesday. They set a top pick rating on the stock. Finally, JPMorgan Chase & Co. dropped their price objective on shares of Delta Air Lines from $81.00 to $69.00 in a report on Monday, May 8th. Fifteen investment analysts have rated the stock with a buy rating and two have given a strong buy rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, the company presently has a consensus rating of Buy and an average target price of $52.32.

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Delta Air Lines Stock Performance

Shares of DAL stock opened at $47.54 on Wednesday. The companys 50 day moving average is $37.72 and its 200 day moving average is $36.63. The company has a quick ratio of 0.42, a current ratio of 0.47 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 3.17. Delta Air Lines has a 52-week low of $27.20 and a 52-week high of $47.73. The firm has a market cap of $30.55 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 16.12, a PEG ratio of 0.20 and a beta of 1.24.

Delta Air Lines Cuts Dividend

Delta Air Lines ( NYSE:DAL Free Report ) last released its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, April 13th. The transportation company reported $0.25 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of $0.29 by ($0.04). Delta Air Lines had a return on equity of 56.49% and a net margin of 3.51%. The firm had revenue of $12.76 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $12.25 billion. During the same period in the prior year, the firm posted ($1.23) earnings per share. Delta Air Liness revenue for the quarter was up 36.5% compared to the same quarter last year. On average, sell-side analysts anticipate that Delta Air Lines will post 6.12 EPS for the current fiscal year.

The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, August 7th. Shareholders of record on Monday, July 17th will be given a $0.10 dividend. The ex-dividend date is Friday, July 14th. This represents a $0.40 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 0.84%.

Insiders Place Their Bets

In other news, Director David S. Taylor acquired 5,000 shares of the firms stock in a transaction on Friday, April 14th. The stock was acquired at an average price of $33.56 per share, for a total transaction of $167,800.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the director now owns 15,360 shares in the company, valued at approximately $515,481.60. The acquisition was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which can be accessed through this link. In related news, EVP Joanne D. Smith sold 7,513 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated Wednesday, May 31st. The shares were sold at an average price of $36.90, for a total transaction of $277,229.70. Following the completion of the transaction, the executive vice president now owns 107,782 shares in the company, valued at approximately $3,977,155.80. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which can be accessed through the SEC website. Also, Director David S. Taylor purchased 5,000 shares of Delta Air Lines stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, April 14th. The shares were bought at an average price of $33.56 per share, with a total value of $167,800.00. Following the transaction, the director now owns 15,360 shares in the company, valued at $515,481.60. The disclosure for this purchase can be found here. Over the last quarter, insiders bought 15,000 shares of company stock worth $503,250. Company insiders own 0.89% of the companys stock.

Institutional Inflows and Outflows

Several hedge funds have recently modified their holdings of DAL. Pacifica Partners Inc. raised its position in shares of Delta Air Lines by 117.6% during the 1st quarter. Pacifica Partners Inc. now owns 740 shares of the transportation companys stock worth $25,000 after purchasing an additional 400 shares during the last quarter. Sound Income Strategies LLC raised its holdings in Delta Air Lines by 1,136.7% in the 1st quarter. Sound Income Strategies LLC now owns 742 shares of the transportation companys stock valued at $26,000 after acquiring an additional 682 shares during the last quarter. Coppell Advisory Solutions Corp. acquired a new stake in Delta Air Lines in the 4th quarter valued at about $28,000. Sittner & Nelson LLC raised its holdings in Delta Air Lines by 200.0% in the 4th quarter. Sittner & Nelson LLC now owns 900 shares of the transportation companys stock valued at $30,000 after acquiring an additional 600 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Harvest Fund Management Co. Ltd acquired a new stake in Delta Air Lines in the 4th quarter valued at about $32,000. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 68.35% of the companys stock.

About Delta Air Lines

(Free Report)

Delta Air Lines, Inc provides scheduled air transportation for passengers and cargo in the United States and internationally. The company operates through two segments, Airline and Refinery. Its domestic network centered on core hubs in Atlanta, Minneapolis-St. Paul, Detroit, and Salt Lake City, as well as coastal hub positions in Boston, Los Angeles, New York-LaGuardia, New York-JFK, and Seattle; and international network centered on hubs and market presence in Amsterdam, Mexico City, London-Heathrow, Paris-Charles de Gaulle, and Seoul-Incheon.

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Shares of Franklin Resources, Inc. (NYSE:BEN  Free Report) have been assigned a consensus rating of Strong Sell from the eleven brokerages that are currently covering the company, Marketbeat reports. Six equities research analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating and five have issued a hold rating on the company. The average 1-year price target among analysts that have issued a report on the stock in the last year is $24.55.

A number of analysts recently commented on BEN shares. StockNews.com started coverage on Franklin Resources in a report on Thursday, May 18th. They set a hold rating on the stock. BMO Capital Markets lifted their price target on Franklin Resources from $19.00 to $20.00 in a report on Tuesday, May 2nd. Bank of America dropped their price target on Franklin Resources from $28.00 to $24.00 and set an underperform rating on the stock in a report on Wednesday, April 5th. Finally, Evercore ISI dropped their price target on Franklin Resources from $27.00 to $24.00 and set an underperform rating on the stock in a report on Thursday, April 13th.

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Insider Activity

In related news, insider Franklin Resources Inc purchased 2,465,483 shares of Franklin Resources stock in a transaction dated Friday, April 28th. The stock was bought at an average cost of $10.14 per share, for a total transaction of $24,999,997.62. Following the completion of the transaction, the insider now owns 4,955,483 shares in the company, valued at $50,248,597.62. The acquisition was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through this hyperlink. 23.40% of the stock is owned by company insiders.

Hedge Funds Weigh In On Franklin Resources

Franklin Resources Stock Down 0.3 %

Several hedge funds have recently made changes to their positions in the stock. State Street Corp grew its position in Franklin Resources by 7.3% during the third quarter. State Street Corp now owns 34,909,926 shares of the closed-end funds stock worth $761,187,000 after buying an additional 2,384,798 shares in the last quarter. Balyasny Asset Management L.P. purchased a new position in Franklin Resources during the first quarter worth about $55,460,000. Franklin Resources Inc. grew its position in Franklin Resources by 197.0% during the first quarter. Franklin Resources Inc. now owns 2,598,687 shares of the closed-end funds stock worth $70,009,000 after buying an additional 1,723,802 shares in the last quarter. Envestnet Asset Management Inc. grew its position in Franklin Resources by 937.6% during the first quarter. Envestnet Asset Management Inc. now owns 1,576,101 shares of the closed-end funds stock worth $2,781,000 after buying an additional 1,424,200 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Royal Bank of Canada grew its position in Franklin Resources by 202.7% during the first quarter. Royal Bank of Canada now owns 2,126,650 shares of the closed-end funds stock worth $59,377,000 after buying an additional 1,424,044 shares in the last quarter. 46.70% of the stock is currently owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

Shares of NYSE:BEN opened at $26.71 on Friday. The stock has a market cap of $13.38 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 16.09 and a beta of 1.26. The company has a quick ratio of 2.09, a current ratio of 2.09 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.85. Franklin Resources has a 12-month low of $20.24 and a 12-month high of $34.37. The businesss 50 day moving average is $25.57 and its 200 day moving average is $27.44.

Franklin Resources (NYSE:BEN  Free Report) last announced its earnings results on Monday, May 1st. The closed-end fund reported $0.61 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $0.57 by $0.04. The company had revenue of $1.93 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $1.80 billion. Franklin Resources had a return on equity of 11.21% and a net margin of 10.79%. Franklin Resourcess quarterly revenue was down 7.4% on a year-over-year basis. During the same quarter in the previous year, the firm earned $0.96 earnings per share. On average, sell-side analysts forecast that Franklin Resources will post 2.34 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

Franklin Resources Dividend Announcement

The business also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, July 14th. Stockholders of record on Friday, June 30th will be given a $0.30 dividend. This represents a $1.20 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 4.49%. The ex-dividend date is Thursday, June 29th. Franklin Resourcess dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 72.29%.

About Franklin Resources

(Free Report

Franklin Resources, Inc is a publicly owned asset management holding company. Through its subsidiaries, the firm provides its services to individuals, institutions, pension plans, trusts, and partnerships. It launches equity, fixed income, balanced, and multi-asset mutual funds through its subsidiaries.

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Cadence Bank (NYSE:CADE  Free Report)  Equities research analysts at DA Davidson reduced their FY2023 earnings per share (EPS) estimates for shares of Cadence Bank in a report issued on Tuesday, June 27th. DA Davidson analyst K. Fitzsimmons now forecasts that the company will earn $2.64 per share for the year, down from their prior forecast of $2.84. DA Davidson has a Buy rating and a $25.00 price objective on the stock. The consensus estimate for Cadence Banks current full-year earnings is $2.66 per share. DA Davidson also issued estimates for Cadence Banks FY2024 earnings at $2.56 EPS.

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Cadence Bank (NYSE:CADE  Free Report) last released its earnings results on Tuesday, April 25th. The company reported $0.68 EPS for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $0.66 by $0.02. The company had revenue of $600.20 million during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $456.09 million. Cadence Bank had a return on equity of 13.24% and a net margin of 19.37%. During the same period in the prior year, the business posted $0.65 EPS.

Cadence Bank Stock Performance

CADE has been the topic of several other reports. Morgan Stanley dropped their target price on Cadence Bank from $29.00 to $23.00 and set an equal weight rating on the stock in a research report on Wednesday, April 5th. Keefe, Bruyette & Woods dropped their target price on Cadence Bank from $32.00 to $28.00 and set an outperform rating on the stock in a research report on Thursday, April 6th. UBS Group started coverage on Cadence Bank in a research report on Wednesday, March 15th. They issued a sell rating and a $21.00 target price on the stock. Raymond James lowered their price target on Cadence Bank from $30.00 to $26.00 and set a strong-buy rating on the stock in a report on Thursday, April 6th. Finally, TheStreet lowered Cadence Bank from a b- rating to a c+ rating in a report on Tuesday, May 2nd. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, two have assigned a hold rating, four have given a buy rating and one has assigned a strong buy rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat.com, the stock currently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $26.70.

CADE stock opened at $19.64 on Friday. The company has a current ratio of 0.79, a quick ratio of 0.78 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.11. The firm has a market cap of $2.13 billion, a P/E ratio of 8.69 and a beta of 0.97. Cadence Bank has a 12-month low of $16.95 and a 12-month high of $29.41. The stocks 50 day simple moving average is $19.48 and its 200 day simple moving average is $22.52.

Institutional Trading of Cadence Bank

Institutional investors have recently modified their holdings of the company. Metropolitan Life Insurance Co NY boosted its stake in Cadence Bank by 3.5% in the 4th quarter. Metropolitan Life Insurance Co NY now owns 11,141 shares of the companys stock valued at $275,000 after buying an additional 373 shares in the last quarter. Creative Planning boosted its stake in Cadence Bank by 3.0% in the 4th quarter. Creative Planning now owns 13,051 shares of the companys stock valued at $322,000 after buying an additional 386 shares in the last quarter. State of Michigan Retirement System boosted its stake in Cadence Bank by 0.9% in the 4th quarter. State of Michigan Retirement System now owns 46,410 shares of the companys stock valued at $1,144,000 after buying an additional 400 shares in the last quarter. Oregon Public Employees Retirement Fund boosted its stake in Cadence Bank by 0.8% in the 4th quarter. Oregon Public Employees Retirement Fund now owns 53,637 shares of the companys stock valued at $1,323,000 after buying an additional 425 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Shaker Investments LLC OH boosted its stake in Cadence Bank by 2.6% in the 1st quarter. Shaker Investments LLC OH now owns 29,191 shares of the companys stock valued at $606,000 after buying an additional 740 shares in the last quarter.

Cadence Bank Dividend Announcement

The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, July 3rd. Stockholders of record on Thursday, June 15th will be issued a dividend of $0.235 per share. This represents a $0.94 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 4.79%. The ex-dividend date is Wednesday, June 14th. Cadence Banks payout ratio is presently 41.59%.

About Cadence Bank

(Free Report)

Cadence Bank provides commercial banking and financial services. Its products and services include consumer banking, consumer loans, mortgages, home equity lines and loans, credit cards, commercial and business banking, treasury management, specialized and asset-based lending, commercial real estate, equipment financing, and correspondent banking services.

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Geberit AG (OTCMKTS:GBERY  Free Report) was the recipient of a significant increase in short interest in the month of June. As of June 15th, there was short interest totalling 2,500 shares, an increase of 92.3% from the May 31st total of 1,300 shares. Based on an average daily volume of 8,500 shares, the days-to-cover ratio is presently 0.3 days.

Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

Several research firms recently issued reports on GBERY. Societe Generale cut Geberit from a hold rating to a sell rating in a research note on Tuesday, March 14th. Citigroup assumed coverage on shares of Geberit in a research report on Friday, May 12th. They issued a sell rating for the company. Finally, Stifel Nicolaus cut shares of Geberit from a buy rating to a hold rating in a research report on Wednesday, May 10th. Four analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, two have given a hold rating and one has assigned a buy rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat, the stock presently has an average rating of Hold and an average target price of $491.20.

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Geberit Price Performance

Shares of OTCMKTS GBERY traded up $1.14 on Friday, reaching $52.23. 1,918 shares of the companys stock traded hands, compared to its average volume of 3,763. The businesss 50 day simple moving average is $54.51 and its two-hundred day simple moving average is $53.83. Geberit has a 12 month low of $40.21 and a 12 month high of $59.29.

Geberit Increases Dividend

Geberit Company Profile

The business also recently disclosed a dividend, which was paid on Wednesday, May 10th. Shareholders of record on Monday, April 24th were paid a dividend of $0.8352 per share. This is a boost from Geberits previous dividend of $0.81. The ex-dividend date was Friday, April 21st. This represents a yield of 1.52%. Geberits payout ratio is presently 35.40%.

(Free Report)

Geberit AG develops, produces, and distributes sanitary products and systems for the residential and commercial construction industry in Switzerland and internationally. The company offers installation and flushing systems, such as installation technology and flushing systems for toilets, including cisterns and fittings; and piping systems consisting of building drainage and supply systems, as well as piping technology for use in buildings for drinking water, heating, gas, and other media.

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GoGreen Investments Co. (NYSE:GOGN  Free Report) was the target of a large decrease in short interest in the month of June. As of June 15th, there was short interest totalling 600 shares, a decrease of 50.0% from the May 31st total of 1,200 shares. Based on an average daily volume of 91,500 shares, the days-to-cover ratio is presently 0.0 days.

GoGreen Investments Price Performance

Shares of GoGreen Investments stock traded up $0.46 on Friday, reaching $11.09. 37,949 shares of the companys stock were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 193,657. GoGreen Investments has a 52 week low of $9.64 and a 52 week high of $11.82. The firms 50-day moving average is $10.71 and its two-hundred day moving average is $10.56.

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Hedge Funds Weigh In On GoGreen Investments

A number of institutional investors and hedge funds have recently modified their holdings of the business. Prelude Capital Management LLC boosted its holdings in shares of GoGreen Investments by 142.4% during the 1st quarter. Prelude Capital Management LLC now owns 200,000 shares of the companys stock worth $2,110,000 after buying an additional 117,498 shares in the last quarter. Berkley W R Corp boosted its holdings in shares of GoGreen Investments by 157.1% during the 1st quarter. Berkley W R Corp now owns 872,056 shares of the companys stock worth $9,200,000 after buying an additional 532,805 shares in the last quarter. Glazer Capital LLC boosted its holdings in shares of GoGreen Investments by 70.0% during the 1st quarter. Glazer Capital LLC now owns 1,571,938 shares of the companys stock worth $16,584,000 after buying an additional 647,267 shares in the last quarter. Quarry LP bought a new position in shares of GoGreen Investments during the 1st quarter worth approximately $2,806,000. Finally, First Trust Capital Management L.P. lifted its holdings in shares of GoGreen Investments by 5.0% in the 1st quarter. First Trust Capital Management L.P. now owns 980,320 shares of the companys stock worth $10,342,000 after purchasing an additional 46,311 shares in the last quarter. 70.00% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors.

About GoGreen Investments

GoGreen Investments Corporation does not have significant operations. It intends to effect a merger, share exchange, share purchase, reorganization, or similar business combination with one or more businesses in the power generation, industrial, transportation, or other industries. The company was incorporated in 2021 and is based in Houston, Texas.

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Harleysville Financial Co. (OTCMKTS:HARL  Free Report) was the target of a large increase in short interest in June. As of June 15th, there was short interest totalling 200 shares, an increase of 100.0% from the May 31st total of 100 shares. Based on an average daily trading volume, of 3,800 shares, the short-interest ratio is presently 0.1 days.

Harleysville Financial Price Performance

HARL stock traded down $0.01 during midday trading on Friday, reaching $22.25. The company had a trading volume of 2,953 shares, compared to its average volume of 2,717. Harleysville Financial has a 1 year low of $22.00 and a 1 year high of $33.68. The company has a market capitalization of $81.44 million, a P/E ratio of 7.25 and a beta of 0.24. The firm has a 50-day moving average price of $23.38 and a 200-day moving average price of $24.38.

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Harleysville Financial (OTCMKTS:HARL  Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings results on Wednesday, April 19th. The bank reported $0.82 EPS for the quarter. Harleysville Financial had a net margin of 33.57% and a return on equity of 13.73%. The business had revenue of $8.33 million during the quarter.

Harleysville Financial Announces Dividend

Harleysville Financial Company Profile

The firm also recently disclosed a dividend, which was paid on Wednesday, May 17th. Stockholders of record on Wednesday, May 3rd were paid a $0.30 dividend. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Tuesday, May 2nd. This represents a dividend yield of 4.84%. Harleysville Financials dividend payout ratio (DPR) is 39.09%.

(Free Report)

Harleysville Financial Corporation operates as the bank holding company for Harleysville Bank that provides various banking products and services primarily in southeastern Pennsylvania. The company offers various deposit products, including savings, money market, and checking accounts; and certificates of deposit.

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Firm Capital Mortgage Investment (OTCMKTS:FCMGF  Free Report) and Ocwen Financial (NYSE:OCN  Free Report) are both financial services companies, but which is the better business? We will compare the two businesses based on the strength of their analyst recommendations, valuation, profitability, risk, dividends, earnings and institutional ownership.

Institutional and Insider Ownership

0.3% of Firm Capital Mortgage Investment shares are held by institutional investors. Comparatively, 68.1% of Ocwen Financial shares are held by institutional investors. 5.8% of Ocwen Financial shares are held by company insiders. Strong institutional ownership is an indication that endowments, hedge funds and large money managers believe a stock will outperform the market over the long term.

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Valuation & Earnings

This table compares Firm Capital Mortgage Investment and Ocwen Financials top-line revenue, earnings per share (EPS) and valuation.

Gross Revenue Price/Sales Ratio Net Income Earnings Per Share Price/Earnings Ratio Firm Capital Mortgage Investment N/A N/A N/A $0.80 9.80 Ocwen Financial $953.90 million 0.24 $25.70 million ($8.55) -3.51

Profitability

Ocwen Financial has higher revenue and earnings than Firm Capital Mortgage Investment. Ocwen Financial is trading at a lower price-to-earnings ratio than Firm Capital Mortgage Investment, indicating that it is currently the more affordable of the two stocks.

This table compares Firm Capital Mortgage Investment and Ocwen Financials net margins, return on equity and return on assets.

Net Margins Return on Equity Return on Assets Firm Capital Mortgage Investment N/A N/A N/A Ocwen Financial -7.38% -8.61% -0.34%

Analyst Recommendations

This is a summary of current ratings and target prices for Firm Capital Mortgage Investment and Ocwen Financial, as provided by MarketBeat.com.

Sell Ratings Hold Ratings Buy Ratings Strong Buy Ratings Rating Score Firm Capital Mortgage Investment 0 0 0 0 N/A Ocwen Financial 0 0 1 0 3.00

Firm Capital Mortgage Investment currently has a consensus target price of $13.50, suggesting a potential upside of 72.63%. Given Firm Capital Mortgage Investments higher possible upside, equities analysts plainly believe Firm Capital Mortgage Investment is more favorable than Ocwen Financial.

Summary

Firm Capital Mortgage Investment beats Ocwen Financial on 5 of the 9 factors compared between the two stocks.

About Firm Capital Mortgage Investment

(Free Report)

Firm Capital Mortgage Investment Corporation, through its mortgage banker, Firm Capital Corporation, provides residential and commercial short-term bridge, and conventional real estate finance in Canada. The company engages in originating, funding, purchasing, and servicing mortgage investments. It also offers mortgage services, such as real estate financing, real estate investment financing, capital market, and loan servicing and advisory services; and a line of lending programs, including construction and development lending, investment property financing, short term lending, bridge finance, mezzanine and equity investments, capital market facilities, alternative residential lending program, and infill construction lending program. The company was founded in 1988 and is based in Toronto, Canada.

About Ocwen Financial

(Free Report)

Ocwen Financial Corporation, a financial services company, originates and services mortgage loans in the United States, the United States Virgin Islands, India, and the Philippines. The company operates through Servicing and Originations segments. It provides commercial mortgage loan servicing, special servicing, and asset management services, as well as residential mortgage loan servicing, such as forward and reverse conventional, government-insured, and non-agency loans, including the reverse mortgage loans to owners of mortgage loans and foreclosed real estate. The company also originates and purchases conventional and government-insured residential forward and reverse mortgage loans through its correspondent lending arrangements, broker relationships, and retail channels. It serves primarily under the PHH Mortgage and Liberty Reverse Mortgage brands. Ocwen Financial Corporation was founded in 1988 and is headquartered in West Palm Beach, Florida.

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HFG Advisors Inc. lifted its stake in shares of Delta Air Lines, Inc. (NYSE:DAL  Free Report) by 50.6% during the first quarter, Holdings Channel.com reports. The firm owned 16,805 shares of the transportation companys stock after acquiring an additional 5,650 shares during the period. HFG Advisors Inc.s holdings in Delta Air Lines were worth $587,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

A number of other institutional investors and hedge funds also recently made changes to their positions in DAL. Candriam Luxembourg S.C.A. acquired a new stake in shares of Delta Air Lines in the 1st quarter worth about $502,000. Pacifica Partners Inc. raised its holdings in shares of Delta Air Lines by 117.6% in the 1st quarter. Pacifica Partners Inc. now owns 740 shares of the transportation companys stock worth $25,000 after acquiring an additional 400 shares during the last quarter. Sound Income Strategies LLC raised its holdings in shares of Delta Air Lines by 1,136.7% in the 1st quarter. Sound Income Strategies LLC now owns 742 shares of the transportation companys stock worth $26,000 after acquiring an additional 682 shares during the last quarter. Coppell Advisory Solutions Corp. purchased a new stake in Delta Air Lines in the 4th quarter valued at about $28,000. Finally, Sittner & Nelson LLC increased its stake in Delta Air Lines by 200.0% in the 4th quarter. Sittner & Nelson LLC now owns 900 shares of the transportation companys stock valued at $30,000 after buying an additional 600 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors own 68.35% of the companys stock.

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Delta Air Lines Stock Performance

DAL traded up $1.23 on Friday, hitting $47.54. The companys stock had a trading volume of 13,335,735 shares, compared to its average volume of 12,267,597. The companys 50 day simple moving average is $37.72 and its 200-day simple moving average is $36.63. The firm has a market cap of $30.55 billion, a P/E ratio of 16.12, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 0.20 and a beta of 1.24. Delta Air Lines, Inc. has a 12 month low of $27.20 and a 12 month high of $47.73. The company has a quick ratio of 0.42, a current ratio of 0.47 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 3.17.

Delta Air Lines Cuts Dividend

Delta Air Lines ( NYSE:DAL Free Report ) last released its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, April 13th. The transportation company reported $0.25 EPS for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of $0.29 by ($0.04). The business had revenue of $12.76 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $12.25 billion. Delta Air Lines had a return on equity of 56.49% and a net margin of 3.51%. The firms quarterly revenue was up 36.5% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period last year, the business posted ($1.23) earnings per share. Analysts forecast that Delta Air Lines, Inc. will post 6.27 EPS for the current year.

The firm also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, August 7th. Investors of record on Monday, July 17th will be issued a $0.10 dividend. This represents a $0.40 annualized dividend and a yield of 0.84%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Friday, July 14th.

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

Several research firms have commented on DAL. Bank of America increased their price objective on shares of Delta Air Lines from $40.00 to $48.00 in a research note on Monday, June 26th. Morgan Stanley began coverage on shares of Delta Air Lines in a research note on Wednesday. They issued a top pick rating for the company. Barclays increased their price objective on shares of Delta Air Lines from $48.00 to $55.00 in a research note on Friday, June 23rd. 22nd Century Group reiterated a maintains rating on shares of Delta Air Lines in a research note on Wednesday. Finally, Evercore ISI upgraded shares of Delta Air Lines from an in-line rating to an outperform rating and increased their price objective for the company from $40.00 to $47.00 in a research note on Tuesday, March 7th. Fifteen analysts have rated the stock with a buy rating and two have issued a strong buy rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the stock presently has a consensus rating of Buy and an average price target of $52.32.

Insider Buying and Selling

In other Delta Air Lines news, President Glen W. Hauenstein sold 5,000 shares of the firms stock in a transaction on Monday, April 17th. The shares were sold at an average price of $34.53, for a total value of $172,650.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the president now directly owns 273,712 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $9,451,275.36. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which can be accessed through the SEC website. In other Delta Air Lines news, President Glen W. Hauenstein sold 5,000 shares of the firms stock in a transaction on Monday, April 17th. The shares were sold at an average price of $34.53, for a total value of $172,650.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the president now directly owns 273,712 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $9,451,275.36. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which can be accessed through the SEC website. Also, EVP Joanne D. Smith sold 7,513 shares of the firms stock in a transaction on Wednesday, May 31st. The shares were sold at an average price of $36.90, for a total transaction of $277,229.70. Following the completion of the transaction, the executive vice president now directly owns 107,782 shares of the companys stock, valued at $3,977,155.80. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. In the last ninety days, insiders acquired 15,000 shares of company stock valued at $503,250. Company insiders own 0.89% of the companys stock.

Delta Air Lines Company Profile

(Free Report)

Delta Air Lines, Inc provides scheduled air transportation for passengers and cargo in the United States and internationally. The company operates through two segments, Airline and Refinery. Its domestic network centered on core hubs in Atlanta, Minneapolis-St. Paul, Detroit, and Salt Lake City, as well as coastal hub positions in Boston, Los Angeles, New York-LaGuardia, New York-JFK, and Seattle; and international network centered on hubs and market presence in Amsterdam, Mexico City, London-Heathrow, Paris-Charles de Gaulle, and Seoul-Incheon.

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Want to see what other hedge funds are holding DAL? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Delta Air Lines, Inc. (NYSE:DAL  Free Report).

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Howard Capital Management Group LLC grew its stake in Philip Morris International Inc. (NYSE:PM  Free Report) by 13.4% during the 1st quarter, according to the company in its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The institutional investor owned 31,774 shares of the companys stock after purchasing an additional 3,744 shares during the period. Howard Capital Management Group LLCs holdings in Philip Morris International were worth $3,090,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

Several other hedge funds have also bought and sold shares of the stock. Advisor OS LLC purchased a new position in shares of Philip Morris International during the 4th quarter valued at approximately $200,000. Prospera Financial Services Inc lifted its position in shares of Philip Morris International by 8.3% during the 4th quarter. Prospera Financial Services Inc now owns 12,912 shares of the companys stock valued at $1,307,000 after buying an additional 987 shares in the last quarter. Van ECK Associates Corp lifted its position in shares of Philip Morris International by 4.9% during the 4th quarter. Van ECK Associates Corp now owns 54,238 shares of the companys stock valued at $5,489,000 after buying an additional 2,545 shares in the last quarter. Profund Advisors LLC lifted its position in shares of Philip Morris International by 10.1% during the 4th quarter. Profund Advisors LLC now owns 17,092 shares of the companys stock valued at $1,730,000 after buying an additional 1,568 shares in the last quarter. Finally, K.J. Harrison & Partners Inc purchased a new position in shares of Philip Morris International during the 4th quarter valued at approximately $5,484,250,000. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 77.43% of the companys stock.

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Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

Several research firms recently commented on PM. StockNews.com began coverage on Philip Morris International in a research note on Thursday, May 18th. They issued a hold rating for the company. Stifel Nicolaus began coverage on Philip Morris International in a research note on Thursday, April 13th. They issued a buy rating and a $114.00 price objective for the company. Citigroup raised Philip Morris International from a neutral rating to a buy rating and increased their price objective for the company from $109.00 to $117.00 in a research note on Tuesday, June 20th. Finally, JPMorgan Chase & Co. raised Philip Morris International from a neutral rating to an overweight rating and increased their price objective for the company from $109.00 to $116.00 in a research note on Thursday, March 30th. One investment analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, two have issued a hold rating and eight have given a buy rating to the company. According to MarketBeat, Philip Morris International has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $111.40.

Philip Morris International Price Performance

Shares of NYSE:PM traded down $0.07 during midday trading on Friday, reaching $97.62. 3,754,940 shares of the companys stock were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 4,310,658. The firms 50 day simple moving average is $94.48 and its two-hundred day simple moving average is $97.96. The stock has a market cap of $151.53 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 17.46, a P/E/G ratio of 2.48 and a beta of 0.68. Philip Morris International Inc. has a fifty-two week low of $82.85 and a fifty-two week high of $105.62.

Philip Morris International (NYSE:PM  Free Report) last issued its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, April 20th. The company reported $1.38 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $1.34 by $0.04. The firm had revenue of $8.10 billion during 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 companys quarterly revenue was up 4.6% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period last year, the company earned $1.56 EPS. Equities research analysts predict that Philip Morris International Inc. will post 6.19 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

Philip Morris International Dividend Announcement

The company also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Tuesday, July 11th. Investors of record on Friday, June 23rd will be issued a dividend of $1.27 per share. This represents a $5.08 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 5.20%. The ex-dividend date is Thursday, June 22nd. Philip Morris Internationals dividend payout ratio (DPR) is 90.88%.

Philip Morris International Company Profile

(Free Report)

Philip Morris International Inc operates as a tobacco company working to delivers a smoke-free future and evolving portfolio for the long-term to include products outside of the tobacco and nicotine sector. The company's product portfolio primarily consists of cigarettes and smoke-free products, including heat-not-burn, vapor, and oral nicotine products that are sold in markets outside the United States.

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Tourists from Beijing pose for a group photo at Brunei International Airport in Bandar Seri Begawan, capital of Brunei, July 1, 2023. Brunei tourism authority and the Chinese Embassy in Brunei held a ceremony at the International Airport on Saturday to welcome the arrival of about 110 tourists from China.

The arrival of Chinese tourists marked the reconnection between the two countries' capital cities through direct flights by Royal Brunei Airlines in three years since the COVID-19 pandemic. (Photo by Jeffrey Wong/Xinhua)

BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN, July 1 (Xinhua) -- Brunei tourism authority and the Chinese embassy in Brunei held a warm ceremony at the International Airport on Saturday to welcome the arrival of about 110 tourists from China.

The arrival of Chinese tourists marked the reconnection between the two countries' capital cities through direct flights by Royal Brunei Airlines in three years since the COVID-19 pandemic.

Tourists from China will help bring gradual resurrection to the tourism industry in the country, Dayang Salinah, acting director of the Tourism Development Department at Brunei's Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism, told Xinhua.

According to the Tourism Development Department, China is one of the top five countries in terms of tourist arrival to Brunei. In 2019, 22 percent of a total of 333,244 tourists to Brunei were recorded from China. 

Performers organized by Brunei tourism authority welcome Chinese tourists at Brunei International Airport in Bandar Seri Begawan, capital of Brunei, July 1, 2023. Brunei tourism authority and the Chinese Embassy in Brunei held a ceremony at the International Airport on Saturday to welcome the arrival of about 110 tourists from China.

The arrival of Chinese tourists marked the reconnection between the two countries' capital cities through direct flights by Royal Brunei Airlines in three years since the COVID-19 pandemic. (Photo by Jeffrey Wong/Xinhua)
Howard Capital Management Group LLC grew its holdings in shares of Eli Lilly and Company (NYSE:LLY  Free Report) by 20.7% in the 1st quarter, HoldingsChannel reports. The firm owned 1,144 shares of the companys stock after acquiring an additional 196 shares during the quarter. Howard Capital Management Group LLCs holdings in Eli Lilly and Company were worth $393,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).

Several other large investors have also recently made changes to their positions in the business. Patriot Financial Group Insurance Agency LLC purchased a new stake in shares of Eli Lilly and Company during the 1st quarter valued at $245,000. Strategic Wealth Investment Group LLC increased its position in shares of Eli Lilly and Company by 43.3% during the 1st quarter. Strategic Wealth Investment Group LLC now owns 5,298 shares of the companys stock valued at $1,218,000 after purchasing an additional 1,600 shares during the last quarter. Clear Creek Financial Management LLC increased its holdings in Eli Lilly and Company by 9.3% in the 1st quarter. Clear Creek Financial Management LLC now owns 1,230 shares of the companys stock worth $422,000 after acquiring an additional 105 shares during the last quarter. MEAG MUNICH ERGO Kapitalanlagegesellschaft mbH increased its holdings in Eli Lilly and Company by 14.0% in the 1st quarter. MEAG MUNICH ERGO Kapitalanlagegesellschaft mbH now owns 193,378 shares of the companys stock worth $66,410,000 after acquiring an additional 23,729 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Maryland State Retirement & Pension System increased its holdings in Eli Lilly and Company by 1.1% in the 1st quarter. Maryland State Retirement & Pension System now owns 66,710 shares of the companys stock worth $22,910,000 after acquiring an additional 694 shares during the last quarter. 87.25% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

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Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

A number of analysts recently weighed in on LLY shares. Truist Financial boosted their target price on Eli Lilly and Company from $421.00 to $430.00 in a research report on Friday, April 28th. Guggenheim lowered their price objective on Eli Lilly and Company from $395.00 to $392.00 and set a buy rating for the company in a research report on Tuesday, April 11th. Morgan Stanley boosted their price objective on Eli Lilly and Company from $478.00 to $507.00 in a research report on Monday, May 15th. Wells Fargo & Company boosted their price objective on Eli Lilly and Company from $440.00 to $500.00 in a research report on Friday, May 26th. Finally, Credit Suisse Group boosted their price objective on Eli Lilly and Company from $420.00 to $490.00 in a research report on Thursday, May 4th. One investment analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, two have assigned a hold rating and thirteen have given a buy rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, Eli Lilly and Company currently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $437.90.

Eli Lilly and Company Stock Up 1.0 %

LLY stock traded up $4.49 during midday trading on Friday, hitting $468.98. The stock had a trading volume of 3,173,216 shares, compared to its average volume of 2,534,527. The firm has a market cap of $445.19 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 74.56, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 2.13 and a beta of 0.36. The business has a 50-day moving average of $434.32 and a two-hundred day moving average of $377.22. Eli Lilly and Company has a 52-week low of $296.32 and a 52-week high of $469.87. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.67, a current ratio of 1.30 and a quick ratio of 1.02.

Eli Lilly and Company (NYSE:LLY  Free Report) last issued its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, April 27th. The company reported $1.62 earnings per share for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of $1.73 by ($0.11). The firm had revenue of $6.96 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $6.87 billion. Eli Lilly and Company had a return on equity of 61.42% and a net margin of 20.54%. Eli Lilly and Companys revenue for the quarter was down 10.9% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period in the previous year, the company earned $2.62 earnings per share. As a group, equities research analysts forecast that Eli Lilly and Company will post 8.78 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

Eli Lilly and Company Dividend Announcement

The business also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, September 8th. Shareholders of record on Tuesday, August 15th will be issued a $1.13 dividend. This represents a $4.52 annualized dividend and a yield of 0.96%. The ex-dividend date is Monday, August 14th. Eli Lilly and Companys dividend payout ratio (DPR) is 71.86%.

Insiders Place Their Bets

In other Eli Lilly and Company news, major shareholder Lilly Endowment Inc sold 11,760 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction on Wednesday, June 28th. The stock was sold at an average price of $465.41, for a total value of $5,473,221.60. Following the sale, the insider now directly owns 101,237,050 shares of the companys stock, valued at $47,116,735,440.50. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at this hyperlink. In other news, EVP Patrik Jonsson sold 6,000 shares of the companys stock in a transaction on Thursday, June 1st. The stock was sold at an average price of $429.46, for a total transaction of $2,576,760.00. Following the transaction, the executive vice president now directly owns 36,941 shares of the companys stock, valued at $15,864,681.86. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is available at the SEC website. Also, major shareholder Lilly Endowment Inc sold 11,760 shares of the companys stock in a transaction on Wednesday, June 28th. The shares were sold at an average price of $465.41, for a total value of $5,473,221.60. Following the transaction, the insider now directly owns 101,237,050 shares in the company, valued at $47,116,735,440.50. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Over the last three months, insiders have sold 1,086,543 shares of company stock valued at $445,911,136. 0.13% of the stock is currently owned by corporate insiders.

About Eli Lilly and Company

(Free Report)

Eli Lilly and Company discovers, develops, and markets human pharmaceuticals worldwide. It offers Basaglar, Humalog, Humalog Mix 75/25, Humalog U-100, Humalog U-200, Humalog Mix 50/50, insulin lispro, insulin lispro protamine, insulin lispro mix 75/25, Humulin, Humulin 70/30, Humulin N, Humulin R, and Humulin U-500 for diabetes; and Jardiance, Trajenta, and Trulicity for type 2 diabetes.

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Illinois Tool Works Inc. (NYSE:ITW  Free Report) has earned an average rating of Reduce from the thirteen research firms that are currently covering the company, MarketBeat reports. Three equities research analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, eight have given a hold rating and two have issued a buy rating on the company. The average 1-year target price among brokerages that have updated their coverage on the stock in the last year is $228.21.

ITW has been the topic of several research reports. Wells Fargo & Company dropped their price target on Illinois Tool Works from $250.00 to $227.00 and set an equal weight rating on the stock in a research report on Thursday, April 13th. StockNews.com lowered Illinois Tool Works from a buy rating to a hold rating in a research report on Thursday, June 22nd. Stifel Nicolaus dropped their target price on Illinois Tool Works from $240.00 to $236.00 in a research report on Wednesday, May 3rd. Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft dropped their target price on Illinois Tool Works from $183.00 to $181.00 and set a sell rating on the stock in a research report on Wednesday, April 12th. Finally, 3M reaffirmed a maintains rating on shares of Illinois Tool Works in a research report on Wednesday, May 3rd.

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Insider Activity at Illinois Tool Works

In related news, CAO Randall J. Scheuneman sold 5,425 shares of the stock in a transaction on Monday, June 12th. The stock was sold at an average price of $239.23, for a total value of $1,297,822.75. Following the completion of the transaction, the chief accounting officer now owns 8,870 shares in the company, valued at approximately $2,121,970.10. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at the SEC website. 0.88% of the stock is currently owned by corporate insiders.

Institutional Investors Weigh In On Illinois Tool Works

Illinois Tool Works Stock Performance

Hedge funds have recently bought and sold shares of the business. Spire Wealth Management lifted its stake in Illinois Tool Works by 39.8% in the 4th quarter. Spire Wealth Management now owns 3,055 shares of the industrial products companys stock worth $673,000 after acquiring an additional 870 shares in the last quarter. State of Alaska Department of Revenue lifted its stake in Illinois Tool Works by 1.7% in the 4th quarter. State of Alaska Department of Revenue now owns 52,903 shares of the industrial products companys stock worth $11,653,000 after acquiring an additional 870 shares in the last quarter. Balentine LLC raised its stake in shares of Illinois Tool Works by 25.9% during the 4th quarter. Balentine LLC now owns 5,063 shares of the industrial products companys stock worth $1,115,000 after purchasing an additional 1,043 shares in the last quarter. CX Institutional raised its stake in shares of Illinois Tool Works by 77.6% during the 4th quarter. CX Institutional now owns 2,092 shares of the industrial products companys stock worth $461,000 after purchasing an additional 914 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Edmond DE Rothschild Holding S.A. raised its stake in shares of Illinois Tool Works by 0.8% during the 4th quarter. Edmond DE Rothschild Holding S.A. now owns 13,920 shares of the industrial products companys stock worth $3,067,000 after purchasing an additional 109 shares in the last quarter. 79.37% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

Illinois Tool Works stock opened at $250.16 on Friday. The stock has a market cap of $76.02 billion, a P/E ratio of 25.02, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 3.74 and a beta of 1.10. The company has a current ratio of 1.20, a quick ratio of 0.84 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.78. The stock has a 50 day moving average of $234.57 and a 200-day moving average of $232.51. Illinois Tool Works has a 52 week low of $173.52 and a 52 week high of $253.37.

Illinois Tool Works (NYSE:ITW  Free Report) last released its earnings results on Tuesday, May 2nd. The industrial products company reported $2.33 EPS for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $2.23 by $0.10. The company had revenue of $4.02 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $3.98 billion. Illinois Tool Works had a return on equity of 92.13% and a net margin of 19.27%. The businesss revenue was up 2.0% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period in the prior year, the business posted $2.11 EPS. On average, analysts expect that Illinois Tool Works will post 9.65 EPS for the current fiscal year.

Illinois Tool Works Dividend Announcement

The business also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Thursday, July 13th. Investors of record on Friday, June 30th will be given a $1.31 dividend. The ex-dividend date is Thursday, June 29th. This represents a $5.24 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 2.09%. Illinois Tool Workss dividend payout ratio (DPR) is 52.40%.

Illinois Tool Works Company Profile

(Free Report

Illinois Tool Works Inc manufactures and sells industrial products and equipment worldwide. It operates through seven segments: Automotive OEM; Food Equipment; Test & Measurement and Electronics; Welding; Polymers & Fluids; Construction Products; and Specialty Products. The Automotive OEM segment offers plastic and metal components, fasteners, and assemblies for automobiles, light trucks, and other industrial uses.

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Institute for Wealth Management LLC. lessened its position in shares of Union Pacific Co. (NYSE:UNP  Free Report) by 3.4% during the first quarter, according to its most recent filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The fund owned 5,383 shares of the railroad operators stock after selling 191 shares during the quarter. Institute for Wealth Management LLC.s holdings in Union Pacific were worth $1,083,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

Other hedge funds have also recently added to or reduced their stakes in the company. Koesten Hirschmann & Crabtree INC. purchased a new position in Union Pacific during the 4th quarter worth approximately $25,000. Coppell Advisory Solutions Corp. purchased a new position in Union Pacific during the 4th quarter worth approximately $32,000. Power Corp of Canada purchased a new position in shares of Union Pacific in the 1st quarter valued at approximately $40,000. Heritage Wealth Management LLC grew its stake in shares of Union Pacific by 152.5% in the 4th quarter. Heritage Wealth Management LLC now owns 202 shares of the railroad operators stock valued at $42,000 after purchasing an additional 122 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Chelsea Counsel Co. purchased a new position in shares of Union Pacific in the 4th quarter valued at approximately $43,000. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 84.04% of the companys stock.

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Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

Several research analysts have weighed in on the company. Stifel Nicolaus lowered their target price on Union Pacific from $222.00 to $216.00 and set a hold rating on the stock in a research note on Friday, April 21st. Morgan Stanley lowered their target price on Union Pacific from $176.00 to $171.00 and set an equal weight rating on the stock in a research note on Friday, April 21st. Credit Suisse Group lowered their target price on Union Pacific from $237.00 to $235.00 and set an outperform rating on the stock in a research note on Friday, April 21st. Wolfe Research lowered their target price on Union Pacific from $221.00 to $220.00 and set an outperform rating on the stock in a research note on Friday, April 21st. Finally, StockNews.com initiated coverage on Union Pacific in a research note on Thursday, May 18th. They issued a hold rating on the stock. Thirteen investment analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating, twelve have assigned a buy rating and one has assigned a strong buy rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat, the stock currently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $217.41.

Union Pacific Stock Performance

NYSE UNP opened at $204.62 on Friday. Union Pacific Co. has a fifty-two week low of $183.69 and a fifty-two week high of $242.35. The stock has a market cap of $124.87 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 18.08, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 1.81 and a beta of 1.10. The business has a fifty day moving average of $198.78 and a 200-day moving average of $201.61. The company has a quick ratio of 0.54, a current ratio of 0.65 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 2.50.

Union Pacific (NYSE:UNP  Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, April 20th. The railroad operator reported $2.67 earnings per share for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $2.57 by $0.10. Union Pacific had a return on equity of 57.75% and a net margin of 27.91%. The company had revenue of $6.06 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $6.03 billion. During the same period in the previous year, the firm posted $2.57 earnings per share. The businesss revenue for the quarter was up 3.3% compared to the same quarter last year. As a group, analysts predict that Union Pacific Co. will post 11.31 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

Union Pacific Announces Dividend

The business also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, June 30th. Stockholders of record on Wednesday, May 31st were issued a $1.30 dividend. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Tuesday, May 30th. This represents a $5.20 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 2.54%. Union Pacifics dividend payout ratio (DPR) is 45.94%.

Union Pacific Profile

(Free Report)

Union Pacific Corporation, through its subsidiary, Union Pacific Railroad Company, operates in the railroad business in the United States. The company offers transportation services for grain and grain products, fertilizers, food and refrigerated products, and coal and renewables to grain processors, animal feeders, ethanol producers, and other agricultural users; petroleum, and liquid petroleum gases; and construction products, industrial chemicals, plastics, forest products, specialized products, metals and ores, soda ash, and sand, as well as finished automobiles, automotive parts, and merchandise in intermodal containers.

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Ipsos SA (OTCMKTS:IPSOF  Free Report) saw a significant decrease in short interest during the month of June. As of June 15th, there was short interest totalling 100 shares, a decrease of 50.0% from the May 31st total of 200 shares. Based on an average daily volume of 0 shares, the short-interest ratio is presently  days.

Ipsos Stock Performance

Ipsos stock remained flat at $59.60 during trading hours on Friday. Ipsos has a twelve month low of $43.86 and a twelve month high of $65.26. The business has a fifty day simple moving average of $59.60 and a 200-day simple moving average of $61.93.

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Ipsos Company Profile

(Free Report)

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Ipsos SA, together with its subsidiaries, provides survey-based research services for companies and institutions in Europe, the Middle East, Africa, the Americas, and the Asia-Pacific. The company offers audience measurement, automotive and mobility development, brand health tracking, channel performance, corporate reputation, creative excellence, customer experience, healthcare, innovation, Ipsos MMA, Ipsos UU, market strategy and understanding, observer, public affairs, social intelligence analytics, and other specialist services, as well as research methodologies, such as device agnosticism, programmatic sampling, and digital face-to-face interview.

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Lathrop Investment Management Corp acquired a new position in Oracle Co. (NYSE:ORCL  Free Report) during the 1st quarter, according to the company in its most recent disclosure with the SEC. The fund acquired 2,161 shares of the enterprise software providers stock, valued at approximately $201,000.

Other hedge funds also recently made changes to their positions in the company. Clear Investment Research LLC purchased a new position in Oracle in the 4th quarter worth about $25,000. Steward Financial Group LLC purchased a new position in Oracle in the 4th quarter worth about $27,000. WFA of San Diego LLC purchased a new stake in shares of Oracle in the 4th quarter valued at approximately $29,000. Trifecta Capital Advisors LLC purchased a new stake in shares of Oracle in the 4th quarter valued at approximately $30,000. Finally, Tanglewood Legacy Advisors LLC purchased a new stake in shares of Oracle in the 4th quarter valued at approximately $35,000. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 43.43% of the companys stock.

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Oracle Price Performance

Shares of ORCL stock opened at $119.09 on Friday. The firms 50 day moving average price is $106.21 and its two-hundred day moving average price is $94.28. The stock has a market cap of $323.24 billion, a PE ratio of 38.92, a PEG ratio of 3.27 and a beta of 1.00. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 55.54, a quick ratio of 0.91 and a current ratio of 0.91. Oracle Co. has a 52-week low of $60.78 and a 52-week high of $127.54.

Oracle Announces Dividend

Oracle ( NYSE:ORCL Free Report ) last released its quarterly earnings data on Monday, June 12th. The enterprise software provider reported $1.67 EPS for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $1.58 by $0.09. Oracle had a net margin of 17.02% and a negative return on equity of 470.73%. The business had revenue of $13.84 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $13.74 billion. During the same quarter in the prior year, the company earned $1.31 EPS. The firms quarterly revenue was up 16.9% on a year-over-year basis. As a group, analysts forecast that Oracle Co. will post 4.5 EPS for the current year.

The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Wednesday, July 26th. Stockholders of record on Wednesday, July 12th will be given a dividend of $0.40 per share. This represents a $1.60 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 1.34%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Tuesday, July 11th. Oracles dividend payout ratio is 52.29%.

Analyst Ratings Changes

Several equities research analysts recently commented on the stock. StockNews.com downgraded shares of Oracle from a buy rating to a hold rating in a research report on Saturday, May 27th. Berenberg Bank boosted their target price on Oracle from $72.00 to $82.50 in a research note on Wednesday, March 8th. Bank of America raised their price objective on shares of Oracle from $112.00 to $132.00 in a research report on Tuesday, June 13th. Credit Suisse Group set a $115.00 price objective on Oracle and gave the company an outperform rating in a research note on Wednesday, March 15th. Finally, BMO Capital Markets upped their price objective on shares of Oracle from $96.00 to $132.00 in a report on Tuesday, June 13th. Twelve research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and twelve have issued a buy rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat.com, Oracle currently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $118.15.

Insider Activity

In other news, insider Edward Screven sold 354,837 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction dated Tuesday, June 20th. The stock was sold at an average price of $123.39, for a total value of $43,783,337.43. Following the sale, the insider now directly owns 2,543,033 shares in the company, valued at $313,784,841.87. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is accessible through the SEC website. In other Oracle news, Director Michael J. Boskin sold 90,000 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction dated Friday, June 23rd. The shares were sold at an average price of $118.83, for a total transaction of $10,694,700.00. Following the sale, the director now directly owns 87,473 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $10,394,416.59. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at this link. Also, insider Edward Screven sold 354,837 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction dated Tuesday, June 20th. The stock was sold at an average price of $123.39, for a total transaction of $43,783,337.43. Following the sale, the insider now directly owns 2,543,033 shares in the company, valued at $313,784,841.87. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Insiders have sold a total of 6,052,544 shares of company stock worth $686,725,797 over the last three months. Corporate insiders own 43.70% of the companys stock.

About Oracle

(Free Report)

Oracle Corporation offers products and services that address enterprise information technology environments worldwide. Its Oracle cloud software as a service offering include various cloud software applications, including Oracle Fusion cloud enterprise resource planning (ERP), Oracle Fusion cloud enterprise performance management, Oracle Fusion cloud supply chain and manufacturing management, Oracle Fusion cloud human capital management, Oracle Advertising, and NetSuite applications suite, as well as Oracle Fusion Sales, Service, and Marketing.

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Macerich (NYSE:MAC  Free Report) had its price objective decreased by Truist Financial from $15.00 to $14.00 in a research report sent to investors on Wednesday morning, The Fly reports.

Several other research firms have also recently issued reports on MAC. StockNews.com initiated coverage on Macerich in a research note on Thursday, May 18th. They issued a sell rating for the company. VNET Group reaffirmed a maintains rating on shares of Macerich in a research note on Wednesday, May 17th. Mizuho lowered their price objective on shares of Macerich from $11.00 to $9.00 in a research note on Friday, May 26th. The Goldman Sachs Group started coverage on Macerich in a research note on Tuesday, March 21st. They issued a sell rating and a $8.50 price objective on the stock. Finally, Piper Sandler decreased their target price on Macerich from $11.00 to $9.00 in a research note on Friday, May 5th. Five investment analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, one has assigned a hold rating and one has given a buy rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat, the company has an average rating of Reduce and a consensus price target of $10.86.

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Macerich Trading Down 0.7 %

Shares of MAC opened at $11.27 on Wednesday. The stock has a 50-day moving average price of $10.22 and a 200 day moving average price of $11.09. Macerich has a one year low of $7.40 and a one year high of $14.51. The company has a market capitalization of $2.42 billion, a P/E ratio of -28.17, a P/E/G ratio of 1.99 and a beta of 2.11. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.50, a quick ratio of 1.02 and a current ratio of 1.02.

Macerich Dividend Announcement

Institutional Investors Weigh In On Macerich

The business also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, June 2nd. Shareholders of record on Friday, May 19th were paid a $0.17 dividend. The ex-dividend date was Thursday, May 18th. This represents a $0.68 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 6.03%. Macerichs dividend payout ratio is -170.00%.

Hedge funds have recently added to or reduced their stakes in the business. Raymond James & Associates boosted its holdings in Macerich by 59.5% in the 1st quarter. Raymond James & Associates now owns 17,799 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock valued at $278,000 after purchasing an additional 6,640 shares during the period. Cambridge Investment Research Advisors Inc. grew its stake in shares of Macerich by 19.2% during the first quarter. Cambridge Investment Research Advisors Inc. now owns 26,417 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $413,000 after buying an additional 4,253 shares during the last quarter. Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Public School Empls Retrmt SYS lifted its stake in shares of Macerich by 10.5% in the 1st quarter. Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Public School Empls Retrmt SYS now owns 78,076 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock valued at $1,221,000 after acquiring an additional 7,444 shares during the last quarter. Great West Life Assurance Co. Can increased its position in Macerich by 5.9% in the 1st quarter. Great West Life Assurance Co. Can now owns 295,511 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock valued at $4,777,000 after acquiring an additional 16,588 shares during the period. Finally, Yousif Capital Management LLC lifted its holdings in Macerich by 1.4% during the 1st quarter. Yousif Capital Management LLC now owns 120,805 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $1,889,000 after buying an additional 1,700 shares during the period. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 83.38% of the companys stock.

Macerich Company Profile

(Free Report)

Macerich is a fully integrated, self-managed and self-administered real estate investment trust (REIT). As a leading owner, operator, and developer of high-quality retail real estate in densely populated and attractive U.S. markets, Macerich's portfolio is concentrated in California, the Pacific Northwest, Phoenix/Scottsdale, and the Metro New York to Washington, DC corridor.

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Martello Technologies Group (OTCMKTS:DRKOF  Free Report) is one of 129 public companies in the SoftwareInfrastructure industry, but how does it contrast to its competitors? We will compare Martello Technologies Group to similar businesses based on the strength of its earnings, risk, analyst recommendations, institutional ownership, valuation, profitability and dividends.

Institutional and Insider Ownership

30.0% of shares of all SoftwareInfrastructure companies are owned by institutional investors. 32.0% of shares of all SoftwareInfrastructure companies are owned by insiders. Strong institutional ownership is an indication that endowments, large money managers and hedge funds believe a stock is poised for long-term growth.

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Profitability

This table compares Martello Technologies Group and its competitors net margins, return on equity and return on assets.

Net Margins Return on Equity Return on Assets Martello Technologies Group N/A N/A N/A Martello Technologies Group Competitors -46.74% -75.80% -11.49%

Analyst Recommendations

Sell Ratings Hold Ratings Buy Ratings Strong Buy Ratings Rating Score Martello Technologies Group 0 0 0 0 N/A Martello Technologies Group Competitors 173 735 1171 5 2.48

This is a breakdown of current ratings and target prices for Martello Technologies Group and its competitors, as provided by MarketBeat.

As a group, SoftwareInfrastructure companies have a potential upside of 81.01%. Given Martello Technologies Groups competitors higher probable upside, analysts clearly believe Martello Technologies Group has less favorable growth aspects than its competitors.

Valuation & Earnings

This table compares Martello Technologies Group and its competitors top-line revenue, earnings per share (EPS) and valuation.

Gross Revenue Net Income Price/Earnings Ratio Martello Technologies Group N/A N/A -0.01 Martello Technologies Group Competitors $190.53 million -$20.86 million -19.09

Martello Technologies Groups competitors have higher revenue, but lower earnings than Martello Technologies Group. Martello Technologies Group is trading at a higher price-to-earnings ratio than its competitors, indicating that it is currently more expensive than other companies in its industry.

About Martello Technologies Group

(Free Report)

Martello Technologies Group Inc. develops digital experience monitoring software solutions in Canada, the United States, Europe, Asia, Latin America, Australia, and internationally. The company operates through three segments: Vantage DX Monitoring Mitel UC, Vantage DX Analytics IT Service Analytics, and Vantage DX Monitoring Microsoft 365. Its products portfolio includes proactive Microsoft 365 monitoring, Microsoft teams call quality analytics, Microsoft active network path analysis, Microsoft 365 and Microsoft teams advanced troubleshooting, ITSM incident workflows, and Microsoft 365 performance reports (SLA/OLA); Vantage DX, a single platform DEM suite, which optimizes the modern workplace with a focus on Microsoft 365 and Microsoft Teams, as well as UC performance analytics software; and subscription-based software as a service. The company also provides software licenses, hardware, training, and maintenance and support services. Martello Technologies Group Inc. is headquartered in Ottawa, Canada.

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Guggenheim initiated coverage on shares of Mister Car Wash (NYSE:MCW  Free Report) in a report issued on Thursday, The Fly reports. The brokerage issued a buy rating and a $11.00 price target on the stock.

Other research analysts have also recently issued research reports about the stock. BMO Capital Markets decreased their target price on shares of Mister Car Wash from $13.00 to $11.00 in a research report on Wednesday, May 3rd. UBS Group reduced their price target on shares of Mister Car Wash from $11.00 to $10.00 in a research report on Wednesday, May 3rd. Finally, Piper Sandler reduced their price target on shares of Mister Car Wash from $11.00 to $10.00 in a research report on Wednesday, April 26th. Four equities research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and one has assigned 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 $10.13.

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Mister Car Wash Stock Performance

MCW opened at $9.65 on Thursday. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.08, a current ratio of 0.68 and a quick ratio of 0.62. The firm has a fifty day moving average price of $8.71 and a 200 day moving average price of $9.05. Mister Car Wash has a 1 year low of $7.80 and a 1 year high of $12.57. The stock has a market cap of $2.98 billion, a P/E ratio of 33.28, a P/E/G ratio of 2.53 and a beta of 1.02.

Insider Buying and Selling at Mister Car Wash

Mister Car Wash ( NYSE:MCW Free Report ) last released its earnings results on Tuesday, May 2nd. The company reported $0.06 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of $0.08 by ($0.02). Mister Car Wash had a return on equity of 13.15% and a net margin of 11.16%. The business had revenue of $225.96 million for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $231.61 million. Equities research analysts anticipate that Mister Car Wash will post 0.27 earnings per share for the current year.

In other news, CEO John Lo-Minn Lai sold 198,200 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, June 12th. The shares were sold at an average price of $8.87, for a total transaction of $1,758,034.00. Following the transaction, the chief executive officer now directly owns 2,518,130 shares in the company, valued at $22,335,813.10. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is accessible through this hyperlink. In other news, CFO Jedidiah Marc Gold sold 4,079 shares of Mister Car Wash stock in a transaction on Monday, June 26th. The stock was sold at an average price of $8.46, for a total transaction of $34,508.34. Following the completion of the transaction, the chief financial officer now owns 23,588 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $199,554.48. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at this link. Also, CEO John Lo-Minn Lai sold 198,200 shares of Mister Car Wash stock in a transaction on Monday, June 12th. The stock was sold at an average price of $8.87, for a total value of $1,758,034.00. Following the transaction, the chief executive officer now directly owns 2,518,130 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $22,335,813.10. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Insiders have sold 561,355 shares of company stock worth $4,912,967 over the last three months. Insiders own 71.20% of the companys stock.

Institutional Inflows and Outflows

Hedge funds and other institutional investors have recently made changes to their positions in the company. JPMorgan Chase & Co. increased its position in Mister Car Wash by 25.7% during the 1st quarter. JPMorgan Chase & Co. now owns 22,357 shares of the companys stock worth $331,000 after purchasing an additional 4,571 shares in the last quarter. Bank of New York Mellon Corp increased its position in Mister Car Wash by 16.4% during the 1st quarter. Bank of New York Mellon Corp now owns 184,107 shares of the companys stock worth $2,723,000 after purchasing an additional 25,960 shares in the last quarter. Citigroup Inc. increased its position in Mister Car Wash by 19.9% during the 1st quarter. Citigroup Inc. now owns 15,536 shares of the companys stock worth $229,000 after purchasing an additional 2,583 shares in the last quarter. Bank of Montreal Can purchased a new stake in Mister Car Wash during the 1st quarter worth about $165,000. Finally, MetLife Investment Management LLC purchased a new stake in Mister Car Wash in the 1st quarter valued at about $63,000.

About Mister Car Wash

(Free Report)

Mister Car Wash, Inc, together with its subsidiaries, provides conveyorized car wash services in the United States. It offers express exterior and interior cleaning services. The company was formerly known as Hotshine Holdings, Inc and changed its name to Mister Car Wash, Inc in March 2021. Mister Car Wash, Inc was founded in 1969 and is headquartered in Tucson, Arizona.

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Orchid Island Capital, Inc. (NYSE:ORC  Free Report) saw a significant drop in short interest in June. As of June 15th, there was short interest totalling 1,200,000 shares, a drop of 44.4% from the May 31st total of 2,160,000 shares. Based on an average trading volume of 854,000 shares, the short-interest ratio is currently 1.4 days. Currently, 3.1% of the shares of the stock are short sold.

Analyst Ratings Changes

Separately, StockNews.com began coverage on shares of Orchid Island Capital in a research note on Thursday, May 18th. They issued a sell rating for the company.

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Orchid Island Capital Stock Performance

Shares of NYSE:ORC traded up $0.09 on Friday, reaching $10.35. The companys stock had a trading volume of 824,820 shares, compared to its average volume of 1,124,969. Orchid Island Capital has a 52-week low of $7.95 and a 52-week high of $16.40. The company has a market cap of $405.00 million, a P/E ratio of -3.38 and a beta of 1.64. The company has a 50-day simple moving average of $10.16 and a 200 day simple moving average of $10.81.

Orchid Island Capital Announces Dividend

Hedge Funds Weigh In On Orchid Island Capital

The firm also recently disclosed a monthly dividend, which will be paid on Thursday, July 27th. Shareholders of record on Friday, June 30th will be paid a $0.16 dividend. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Thursday, June 29th. This represents a $1.92 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 18.55%. Orchid Island Capitals payout ratio is currently -62.74%.

A number of institutional investors and hedge funds have recently made changes to their positions in ORC. Prudential Financial Inc. purchased a new position in shares of Orchid Island Capital during the 2nd quarter worth about $32,000. Atria Wealth Solutions Inc. purchased a new position in shares of Orchid Island Capital during the 1st quarter worth about $38,000. Renaissance Technologies LLC purchased a new position in shares of Orchid Island Capital during the 2nd quarter worth about $42,000. Legal & General Group Plc boosted its stake in shares of Orchid Island Capital by 40.2% during the 2nd quarter. Legal & General Group Plc now owns 14,975 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $43,000 after purchasing an additional 4,291 shares during the period. Finally, Quadrant Capital Group LLC boosted its stake in shares of Orchid Island Capital by 689.3% during the 4th quarter. Quadrant Capital Group LLC now owns 4,420 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $46,000 after purchasing an additional 3,860 shares during the period. 30.15% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

Orchid Island Capital Company Profile

(Free Report)

Orchid Island Capital, Inc, a specialty finance company, invests in residential mortgage-backed securities (RMBS) in the United States. The company's RMBS is backed by single-family residential mortgage loans, referred as Agency RMBS. Its portfolio includes traditional pass-through Agency RMBS, such as mortgage pass through certificates and collateralized mortgage obligations; and structured Agency RMBS comprising interest only securities, inverse interest only securities, and principal only securities.

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Ping An Insurance (Group) Company of China, Ltd. (OTCMKTS:PIAIF  Free Report) saw a large decline in short interest during the month of June. As of June 15th, there was short interest totalling 456,600 shares, a decline of 50.4% from the May 31st total of 920,300 shares. Based on an average trading volume of 26,300 shares, the short-interest ratio is presently 17.4 days.

Ping An Insurance (Group) Company of China Stock Performance

Shares of OTCMKTS PIAIF traded down $0.07 during mid-day trading on Friday, reaching $6.27. 5,330 shares of the company were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 23,006. Ping An Insurance has a 52 week low of $3.89 and a 52 week high of $8.19. The companys 50 day moving average price is $6.84 and its 200 day moving average price is $6.92.

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Ping An Insurance (Group) Company of China Company Profile

(Free Report)

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Ping An Insurance (Group) Company of China, Ltd. provides financial products and services for insurance, banking, asset management, and technology businesses in the People's Republic of China. Its Life and Health Insurance segment offers term, whole-life, endowment, annuity, investment-linked, universal life, and health care and medical insurance to individual and corporate customers.

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Lee Jae-myung, chairman of South Korea's main opposition Democratic Party (DP), addresses a rally to oppose Japan's nuclear-contaminated water discharge plan in Seoul, South Korea, July 1, 2023. South Korea's DP held a rally in central Seoul on Saturday to oppose Japan's nuclear-contaminated water discharge plan and urge the government to make clear its opposition to Japan's plan. According to the DP, nearly 100,000 people took part in the rally. Lee Jae-myung said that if Japan wants to pollute the sea, (the South Korean government) should openly oppose it. (Photo by James Lee/Xinhua)

SEOUL, July 1 (Xinhua) -- South Korea's main opposition Democratic Party (DP) held a rally in central Seoul on Saturday to oppose Japan's nuclear-contaminated water discharge plan and urge the government to make clear its opposition to Japan's plan.

According to the DP, nearly 100,000 people took part in the rally.

Lee Jae-myung, chairman of the DP, said that if Japan wants to pollute the sea, (the South Korean government) should openly oppose it.

Rep. Park Kwang-on, floor leader of the DP, called on South Koreans to unite against Japan's radioactive wastewater discharge plan and join hands to safeguard people's lives.

"It makes no sense for Japan, a developed country, to risk the lives of people all over the world (by releasing nuclear-contaminated water into the sea)," Cho Han-ki, a citizen who joined the rally, told Xinhua.

Despite ongoing opposition from its neighbors and the Pacific island countries, Japan has been rushing to carry out its plan of dumping radioactive wastewater from the crippled Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant into the Pacific Ocean. 

People take part in a rally to oppose Japan's nuclear-contaminated water discharge plan in Seoul, South Korea, July 1, 2023. South Korea's main opposition Democratic Party (DP) held a rally in central Seoul on Saturday to oppose Japan's nuclear-contaminated water discharge plan and urge the government to make clear its opposition to Japan's plan. According to the DP, nearly 100,000 people took part in the rally. Lee Jae-myung, chairman of the DP, said that if Japan wants to pollute the sea, (the South Korean government) should openly oppose it. (Photo by James Lee/Xinhua)

People take part in a rally to oppose Japan's nuclear-contaminated water discharge plan in Seoul, South Korea, July 1, 2023. South Korea's main opposition Democratic Party (DP) held a rally in central Seoul on Saturday to oppose Japan's nuclear-contaminated water discharge plan and urge the government to make clear its opposition to Japan's plan. According to the DP, nearly 100,000 people took part in the rally. Lee Jae-myung, chairman of the DP, said that if Japan wants to pollute the sea, (the South Korean government) should openly oppose it. (Photo by James Lee/Xinhua)

People take part in a rally to oppose Japan's nuclear-contaminated water discharge plan in Seoul, South Korea, July 1, 2023. South Korea's main opposition Democratic Party (DP) held a rally in central Seoul on Saturday to oppose Japan's nuclear-contaminated water discharge plan and urge the government to make clear its opposition to Japan's plan. According to the DP, nearly 100,000 people took part in the rally. Lee Jae-myung, chairman of the DP, said that if Japan wants to pollute the sea, (the South Korean government) should openly oppose it. (Photo by James Lee/Xinhua)

People take part in a rally to oppose Japan's nuclear-contaminated water discharge plan in Seoul, South Korea, July 1, 2023. South Korea's main opposition Democratic Party (DP) held a rally in central Seoul on Saturday to oppose Japan's nuclear-contaminated water discharge plan and urge the government to make clear its opposition to Japan's plan. According to the DP, nearly 100,000 people took part in the rally. Lee Jae-myung, chairman of the DP, said that if Japan wants to pollute the sea, (the South Korean government) should openly oppose it. (Photo by James Lee/Xinhua)
First Quantum Minerals (OTCMKTS:FQVLF  Free Report) had its price target trimmed by Scotiabank from C$41.00 to C$40.00 in a report issued on Wednesday, The Fly reports.

Other research analysts also recently issued research reports about the company. Morgan Stanley dropped their price objective on First Quantum Minerals from C$25.00 to C$22.00 in a report on Thursday, March 30th. CIBC dropped their price objective on First Quantum Minerals from C$28.00 to C$26.00 in a report on Tuesday, February 28th. JPMorgan Chase & Co. raised First Quantum Minerals from an underweight rating to a neutral rating in a research report on Thursday, March 9th. National Bank Financial raised First Quantum Minerals from a sector perform rating to an outperform rating in a research report on Thursday, April 27th. Finally, Raymond James decreased their target price on First Quantum Minerals from C$35.00 to C$34.00 in a research report on Thursday, April 20th. Two research analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, four have issued a hold rating and six have issued a buy rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, First Quantum Minerals has a consensus rating of Hold and a consensus target price of $32.21.

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First Quantum Minerals Price Performance

Shares of OTCMKTS FQVLF opened at $23.65 on Wednesday. The stocks 50-day moving average is $23.64 and its two-hundred day moving average is $22.39. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.52, a current ratio of 2.14 and a quick ratio of 1.24. First Quantum Minerals has a 1-year low of $14.48 and a 1-year high of $27.09. The company has a market cap of $16.38 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 22.74, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 6.03 and a beta of 1.96.

First Quantum Minerals Cuts Dividend

First Quantum Minerals ( OTCMKTS:FQVLF Free Report ) last issued its quarterly earnings results on Tuesday, April 25th. The basic materials company reported $0.11 earnings per share for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $0.04 by $0.07. First Quantum Minerals had a return on equity of 5.37% and a net margin of 10.31%. The company had revenue of $1.56 billion for the quarter. Analysts forecast that First Quantum Minerals will post 1.2 EPS for the current fiscal year.

The business also recently disclosed a dividend, which was paid on Monday, May 8th. Shareholders of record on Monday, April 17th were given a dividend of $0.0969 per share. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Friday, April 14th. This represents a yield of 0.89%. First Quantum Mineralss payout ratio is 18.27%.

First Quantum Minerals Company Profile

(Free Report)

First Quantum Minerals Ltd., together with its subsidiaries, engages in the exploration, development, and production of mineral properties. It primarily explores for copper, nickel, pyrite, gold, silver, and zinc ores, as well as produces acid. The company has operating mines located in Zambia, Panama, Finland, Turkey, Spain, Australia, and Mauritania, as well as a development project in Zambia.

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BlackRock MuniVest Fund, Inc. (NYSE:MVF  Free Report) was the recipient of a significant drop in short interest during the month of June. As of June 15th, there was short interest totalling 6,500 shares, a drop of 50.8% from the May 31st total of 13,200 shares. Based on an average trading volume of 124,900 shares, the days-to-cover ratio is presently 0.1 days.

Institutional Inflows and Outflows

A number of hedge funds and other institutional investors have recently modified their holdings of MVF. Raymond James Financial Services Advisors Inc. increased its position in shares of BlackRock MuniVest Fund by 2.0% during the first quarter. Raymond James Financial Services Advisors Inc. now owns 139,508 shares of the companys stock worth $1,138,000 after acquiring an additional 2,723 shares during the last quarter. Cambridge Investment Research Advisors Inc. purchased a new stake in shares of BlackRock MuniVest Fund during the first quarter worth about $92,000. U.S. Capital Wealth Advisors LLC increased its position in shares of BlackRock MuniVest Fund by 9.9% during the first quarter. U.S. Capital Wealth Advisors LLC now owns 30,000 shares of the companys stock worth $245,000 after acquiring an additional 2,700 shares during the last quarter. Allianz Asset Management GmbH purchased a new stake in shares of BlackRock MuniVest Fund during the first quarter worth about $3,271,000. Finally, Ancora Advisors LLC increased its position in shares of BlackRock MuniVest Fund by 18.1% during the first quarter. Ancora Advisors LLC now owns 34,700 shares of the companys stock worth $323,000 after acquiring an additional 5,313 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 36.82% of the companys stock.

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BlackRock MuniVest Fund Trading Up 0.1 %

Shares of MVF traded up $0.01 during midday trading on Friday, reaching $6.73. 58,079 shares of the company were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 117,614. The stock has a 50-day moving average price of $6.70 and a 200-day moving average price of $6.85. BlackRock MuniVest Fund has a 1-year low of $6.33 and a 1-year high of $7.90.

BlackRock MuniVest Fund Dividend Announcement

BlackRock MuniVest Fund Company Profile

The business also recently disclosed a monthly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, July 3rd. Shareholders of record on Thursday, June 15th will be paid a dividend of $0.021 per share. This represents a $0.25 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 3.74%. The ex-dividend date is Wednesday, June 14th.

(Free Report)

BlackRock MuniVest Fund, Inc is a closed-ended fixed income mutual fund launched by BlackRock, Inc It is managed by BlackRock Advisors, LLC. The fund invests in the fixed income markets of the United States. It primarily invests in investment grade, long term municipal obligations that are exempt from federal income taxes.

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Greenhill & Co., Inc. (NYSE:GHL  Free Report) was the target of a large decrease in short interest during the month of June. As of June 15th, there was short interest totalling 77,000 shares, a decrease of 33.2% from the May 31st total of 115,200 shares. Approximately 0.6% of the shares of the stock are sold short. Based on an average trading volume of 259,000 shares, the days-to-cover ratio is presently 0.3 days.

Analysts Set New Price Targets

A number of equities analysts have weighed in on GHL shares. The Goldman Sachs Group decreased their target price on Greenhill & Co., Inc. from $9.50 to $8.50 and set a sell rating on the stock in a research note on Tuesday, April 11th. JMP Securities lowered Greenhill & Co., Inc. from an outperform rating to a market perform rating in a research note on Tuesday, May 23rd. Keefe, Bruyette & Woods upgraded Greenhill & Co., Inc. from an underperform rating to a market perform rating in a research note on Monday, May 22nd. StockNews.com assumed coverage on Greenhill & Co., Inc. in a research note on Monday, June 26th. They issued a hold rating on the stock. Finally, TheStreet lowered Greenhill & Co., Inc. from a c rating to a d+ rating in a research report on Wednesday, May 31st. One investment analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating and four have given a hold rating to the company. According to MarketBeat.com, the company has an average rating of Hold and a consensus target price of $11.38.

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Greenhill & Co., Inc. Price Performance

Shares of Greenhill & Co., Inc. stock remained flat at $14.65 during trading on Friday. The stock had a trading volume of 92,206 shares, compared to its average volume of 204,430. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 5.09, a quick ratio of 1.90 and a current ratio of 1.90. The company has a market capitalization of $268.40 million, a PE ratio of -21.54 and a beta of 1.15. The business has a 50 day simple moving average of $11.51 and a two-hundred day simple moving average of $10.93. Greenhill & Co., Inc. has a 12-month low of $5.64 and a 12-month high of $14.97.

Greenhill & Co., Inc. Dividend Announcement

Greenhill & Co., Inc. ( NYSE:GHL Free Report ) last issued its earnings results on Wednesday, May 3rd. The financial services provider reported ($1.27) earnings per share for the quarter. The company had revenue of $49.68 million for the quarter. Greenhill & Co., Inc. had a negative net margin of 3.02% and a negative return on equity of 13.14%.

The business also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Wednesday, June 21st. Investors of record on Wednesday, June 7th were issued a dividend of $0.10 per share. This represents a $0.40 annualized dividend and a yield of 2.73%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Tuesday, June 6th. Greenhill & Co., Inc.s dividend payout ratio is presently -58.82%.

Institutional Investors Weigh In On Greenhill & Co., Inc.

Institutional investors and hedge funds have recently bought and sold shares of the business. Fisher Asset Management LLC lifted its holdings in Greenhill & Co., Inc. by 4.0% in the 4th quarter. Fisher Asset Management LLC now owns 460,587 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $4,721,000 after buying an additional 17,621 shares during the period. GSA Capital Partners LLP lifted its holdings in Greenhill & Co., Inc. by 5.1% in the 4th quarter. GSA Capital Partners LLP now owns 163,201 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $1,673,000 after buying an additional 7,924 shares during the period. Kestra Advisory Services LLC lifted its holdings in Greenhill & Co., Inc. by 37.7% in the 4th quarter. Kestra Advisory Services LLC now owns 16,752 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $172,000 after buying an additional 4,585 shares during the period. Barclays PLC lifted its holdings in Greenhill & Co., Inc. by 139.0% in the 4th quarter. Barclays PLC now owns 3,456 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $36,000 after buying an additional 2,010 shares during the period. Finally, Tower Research Capital LLC TRC lifted its holdings in Greenhill & Co., Inc. by 69.0% in the 1st quarter. Tower Research Capital LLC TRC now owns 3,859 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $34,000 after buying an additional 1,576 shares during the period. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 63.50% of the companys stock.

Greenhill & Co., Inc. Company Profile

(Free Report)

Greenhill & Co, Inc, an independent investment bank, provides financial and strategic advisory services to corporations, partnerships, institutional investors, and governments worldwide. The company offers advisory services related to mergers and acquisitions, divestitures, restructurings, financings, private capital raising, and other similar transactions.

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Nuveen Massachusetts Quality Municipal Income Fund (NYSE:NMT  Free Report) saw a large increase in short interest in June. As of June 15th, there was short interest totalling 9,900 shares, an increase of 98.0% from the May 31st total of 5,000 shares. Based on an average trading volume of 12,300 shares, the days-to-cover ratio is currently 0.8 days.

Nuveen Massachusetts Quality Municipal Income Fund Price Performance

NYSE:NMT traded down $0.01 during mid-day trading on Friday, hitting $10.44. 18,197 shares of the companys stock traded hands, compared to its average volume of 13,885. The firm has a 50 day moving average of $10.38 and a two-hundred day moving average of $10.61. Nuveen Massachusetts Quality Municipal Income Fund has a 12 month low of $9.90 and a 12 month high of $12.31.

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Nuveen Massachusetts Quality Municipal Income Fund Dividend Announcement

The company also recently declared a monthly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, July 3rd. Shareholders of record on Thursday, June 15th will be issued a $0.026 dividend. The ex-dividend date is Wednesday, June 14th. This represents a $0.31 annualized dividend and a yield of 2.99%.

Hedge Funds Weigh In On Nuveen Massachusetts Quality Municipal Income Fund

About Nuveen Massachusetts Quality Municipal Income Fund

Several large investors have recently added to or reduced their stakes in NMT. Melfa Wealth Management LLC raised its holdings in shares of Nuveen Massachusetts Quality Municipal Income Fund by 2.2% in the 1st quarter. Melfa Wealth Management LLC now owns 45,023 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $479,000 after buying an additional 975 shares in the last quarter. Raymond James Financial Services Advisors Inc. raised its holdings in shares of Nuveen Massachusetts Quality Municipal Income Fund by 6.0% in the 1st quarter. Raymond James Financial Services Advisors Inc. now owns 19,726 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $251,000 after buying an additional 1,117 shares in the last quarter. Wells Fargo & Company MN raised its holdings in shares of Nuveen Massachusetts Quality Municipal Income Fund by 4.6% in the 4th quarter. Wells Fargo & Company MN now owns 27,570 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $291,000 after buying an additional 1,200 shares in the last quarter. Bank of America Corp DE raised its holdings in shares of Nuveen Massachusetts Quality Municipal Income Fund by 2.2% in the 4th quarter. Bank of America Corp DE now owns 85,724 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $906,000 after buying an additional 1,812 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Tortoise Investment Management LLC raised its holdings in shares of Nuveen Massachusetts Quality Municipal Income Fund by 38.1% in the 1st quarter. Tortoise Investment Management LLC now owns 8,094 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $86,000 after buying an additional 2,232 shares in the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 9.56% of the companys stock.

(Free Report)

Nuveen Massachusetts 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 Massachusetts, United States. The fund primarily invests in undervalued municipal securities and other related investments which are exempt from regular federal and Massachusetts income taxes.

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Source Financial Advisors LLC lessened its holdings in shares of SPDR Gold Shares (NYSEARCA:GLD  Free Report) by 23.7% in the first quarter, according to its most recent filing with the SEC. The firm owned 5,073 shares of the exchange traded funds stock after selling 1,580 shares during the quarter. Source Financial Advisors LLCs holdings in SPDR Gold Shares were worth $929,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

A number of other institutional investors also recently added to or reduced their stakes in GLD. Proficio Capital Partners LLC boosted its position in SPDR Gold Shares by 14,239.7% during the 1st quarter. Proficio Capital Partners LLC now owns 42,305,863 shares of the exchange traded funds stock worth $46,412,000 after acquiring an additional 42,010,836 shares during the period. Moneta Group Investment Advisors LLC boosted its position in SPDR Gold Shares by 67,584.6% during the 4th quarter. Moneta Group Investment Advisors LLC now owns 3,037,008 shares of the exchange traded funds stock worth $515,198,000 after acquiring an additional 3,032,521 shares during the period. State Street Corp boosted its position in SPDR Gold Shares by 256.0% during the 1st quarter. State Street Corp now owns 1,142,717 shares of the exchange traded funds stock worth $206,432,000 after acquiring an additional 821,773 shares during the period. Fullerton Fund Management Co Ltd. boosted its position in SPDR Gold Shares by 4,847.1% during the 4th quarter. Fullerton Fund Management Co Ltd. now owns 622,043 shares of the exchange traded funds stock worth $105,523,000 after acquiring an additional 609,469 shares during the period. Finally, Virtu Financial LLC acquired a new stake in shares of SPDR Gold Shares in the first quarter valued at $100,880,000. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 38.86% of the companys stock.

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SPDR Gold Shares Trading Up 0.7 %

Shares of SPDR Gold Shares stock traded up $1.18 during trading on Friday, hitting $178.27. The stock had a trading volume of 6,420,904 shares, compared to its average volume of 6,012,834. The business has a fifty day moving average of $182.92 and a two-hundred day moving average of $178.68. SPDR Gold Shares has a fifty-two week low of $150.57 and a fifty-two week high of $191.36.

SPDR Gold Shares Company Profile

SPDR Gold Trust (the Trust) is an investment trust. The investment objective of the Trust is for the Shares to reflect the performance of the price of gold bullion, less the Trusts expenses. The Trusts business activity is the investment of gold. The Trust creates and redeems Shares from time to time, but in one or more Baskets (a Basket equals a block of 100,000 Shares).

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StockNews.com initiated coverage on shares of International Tower Hill Mines (NYSEAMERICAN:THM  Free Report) (TSE:ITH) in a research note released on Wednesday morning. The firm issued a sell rating on the mining companys stock.

International Tower Hill Mines Stock Performance

NYSEAMERICAN:THM opened at $0.42 on Wednesday. International Tower Hill Mines has a fifty-two week low of $0.37 and a fifty-two week high of $0.75. The company has a 50 day moving average price of $0.48 and a 200 day moving average price of $0.52. The stock has a market capitalization of $81.67 million, a P/E ratio of -20.95 and a beta of 0.70.

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Institutional Trading of International Tower Hill Mines

An institutional investor recently raised its position in International Tower Hill Mines stock. Renaissance Technologies LLC increased its stake in shares of International Tower Hill Mines Ltd. (NYSEAMERICAN:THM  Free Report) (TSE:ITH) by 25.2% in the 4th quarter, according to its most recent 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The institutional investor owned 161,859 shares of the mining companys stock after purchasing an additional 32,559 shares during the quarter. Renaissance Technologies LLC owned 0.08% of International Tower Hill Mines worth $69,000 at the end of the most recent quarter. 55.34% of the stock is owned by institutional investors.

International Tower Hill Mines Company Profile

International Tower Hill Mines Ltd., a mineral exploration company, engages in the acquisition, exploration, and development of mineral properties. It holds or has rights to acquire interests in the Livengood gold project covering an area of approximately 19,546 hectares located to the northwest of Fairbanks, Alaska.

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StockNews.com assumed coverage on shares of NovaBay Pharmaceuticals (NYSE:NBY  Free Report) in a research note issued to investors on Sunday. The firm set a hold rating on the stock.

NovaBay Pharmaceuticals Price Performance

NovaBay Pharmaceuticals Company Profile

(Free Report)

NovaBay Pharmaceuticals, Inc, a biopharmaceutical company, develops and sells eyecare, skincare, and wound care products in the United States and internationally. It offers Avenova Spray, a solution for removing foreign materials, including microorganisms and debris from skin around the eye, such as the eyelid; and wound care products, which are used for cleansing and irrigation as part of surgical procedures, as well as treating certain wounds, burns, ulcers, and other injuries under the NeutroPhase and PhaseOne brands.

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Stone Point Wealth LLC grew its holdings in iShares National Muni Bond ETF (NYSEARCA:MUB  Free Report) by 28.0% during the first quarter, according to its most recent 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The firm owned 8,786 shares of the exchange traded funds stock after purchasing an additional 1,921 shares during the quarter. Stone Point Wealth LLCs holdings in iShares National Muni Bond ETF were worth $947,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).

Other hedge funds and other institutional investors also recently made changes to their positions in the company. Providence Capital Advisors LLC bought a new stake in shares of iShares National Muni Bond ETF during the 4th quarter valued at about $25,000. Fortis Capital Advisors LLC bought a new stake in shares of iShares National Muni Bond ETF during the 4th quarter valued at about $25,000. Morris Financial Concepts Inc. boosted its position in shares of iShares National Muni Bond ETF by 524.4% during the 4th quarter. Morris Financial Concepts Inc. now owns 256 shares of the exchange traded funds stock valued at $27,000 after purchasing an additional 215 shares in the last quarter. First Manhattan Co. bought a new stake in shares of iShares National Muni Bond ETF during the 4th quarter valued at about $29,000. Finally, Sound Income Strategies LLC boosted its position in shares of iShares National Muni Bond ETF by 70.5% during the 4th quarter. Sound Income Strategies LLC now owns 283 shares of the exchange traded funds stock valued at $30,000 after purchasing an additional 117 shares in the last quarter.

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iShares National Muni Bond ETF Stock Up 0.2 %

Shares of iShares National Muni Bond ETF stock traded up $0.20 on Friday, hitting $106.73. 1,295,479 shares of the companys stock traded hands, compared to its average volume of 2,522,222. iShares National Muni Bond ETF has a one year low of $101.35 and a one year high of $108.82. The company has a fifty day moving average of $106.61 and a two-hundred day moving average of $106.76.

iShares National Muni Bond ETF Profile

iShares National AMT-Free Muni Bond ETF (the Fund), formerly iShares S&P National AMT-Free Municipal Bond Fund, is an exchange-traded fund (ETF). The Fund seeks investment results that correspond generally to the price and yield performance of the S&P National AMT-Free Municipal Bond Index (the Index).

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Tempur Sealy International (NYSE:TPX  Free Report) and Richelieu Hardware (OTCMKTS:RHUHF  Free Report) are both retail/wholesale companies, but which is the better investment? We will contrast the two businesses based on the strength of their earnings, profitability, valuation, analyst recommendations, risk, institutional ownership and dividends.

Earnings & Valuation

This table compares Tempur Sealy International and Richelieu Hardwares top-line revenue, earnings per share and valuation.

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Gross Revenue Price/Sales Ratio Net Income Earnings Per Share Price/Earnings Ratio Tempur Sealy International $4.92 billion 1.40 $455.70 million $2.31 17.35 Richelieu Hardware N/A N/A N/A $2.47 12.49

Tempur Sealy International has higher revenue and earnings than Richelieu Hardware. Richelieu Hardware is trading at a lower price-to-earnings ratio than Tempur Sealy International, indicating that it is currently the more affordable of the two stocks.

Profitability

Net Margins Return on Equity Return on Assets Tempur Sealy International 8.39% -522.46% 9.76% Richelieu Hardware N/A N/A N/A

Dividends

This table compares Tempur Sealy International and Richelieu Hardwares net margins, return on equity and return on assets.

Tempur Sealy International pays an annual dividend of $0.44 per share and has a dividend yield of 1.1%. Richelieu Hardware pays an annual dividend of $0.55 per share and has a dividend yield of 1.8%. Tempur Sealy International pays out 19.0% of its earnings in the form of a dividend. Richelieu Hardware pays out 22.3% of its earnings in the form of a dividend. Both companies have healthy payout ratios and should be able to cover their dividend payments with earnings for the next several years. Tempur Sealy International has increased its dividend for 3 consecutive years.

Institutional and Insider Ownership

99.5% of Tempur Sealy International shares are held by institutional investors. Comparatively, 62.6% of Richelieu Hardware shares are held by institutional investors. 5.2% of Tempur Sealy International shares are held by company insiders. Strong institutional ownership is an indication that endowments, hedge funds and large money managers believe a company is poised for long-term growth.

Analyst Ratings

This is a breakdown of recent ratings for Tempur Sealy International and Richelieu Hardware, as provided by MarketBeat.

Sell Ratings Hold Ratings Buy Ratings Strong Buy Ratings Rating Score Tempur Sealy International 0 3 6 1 2.80 Richelieu Hardware 0 2 0 0 2.00

Tempur Sealy International currently has a consensus price target of $42.67, suggesting a potential upside of 6.48%. Richelieu Hardware has a consensus price target of $46.50, suggesting a potential upside of 50.88%. Given Richelieu Hardwares higher possible upside, analysts plainly believe Richelieu Hardware is more favorable than Tempur Sealy International.

Summary

Tempur Sealy International beats Richelieu Hardware on 11 of the 15 factors compared between the two stocks.

About Tempur Sealy International

(Free Report)

Tempur Sealy International, Inc., together with its subsidiaries, designs, manufactures, markets, and distributes bedding products in the United States and internationally. It provides mattresses, foundations and adjustable foundations, and adjustable bases, as well as other products comprising pillows, mattress covers, sheets, cushions, and various other accessories and comfort products under the Tempur-Pedic, Sealy, Stearns & Foster, and Cocoon by Sealy brand names. The company sells its products through approximately 700 company-owned stores, e-commerce, and call centers; and third party retailers, including third party distribution, hospitality, and healthcare. It also operates a portfolio of retail brands, including Tempur-Pedic retail stores, Sleep Outfitters, Sleep Solutions Outlet, Dreams, and SOVA, as well as licenses Sealy, Tempur, and Stearns & Foster brands; technology; and trademarks to other manufacturers. Tempur Sealy International, Inc. was founded in 1846 and is based in Lexington, Kentucky.

About Richelieu Hardware

(Free Report)

Richelieu Hardware Ltd. manufactures, imports, and distributes specialty hardware and complementary products in North America. The company's principal product categories include furniture; glass and building decorative, and functional hardware; lighting systems; finishing and decorating products; ergonomic workstation components; kitchen and closet storage solutions; sliding door systems; decorative and functional panels; high-pressure laminates; railing and balusters; and floor protection products, as well as accessories for power tools. It also manufactures veneer sheets and edge banding products; and various decorative moldings and components for the window and door industry. The company serves kitchen and bathroom cabinet, storage and closet, home furnishing, and office furniture manufacturers; door and window manufacturers; residential and commercial woodworkers; and hardware retailers, such as renovation superstores. The company was incorporated in 1968 and is headquartered in Montreal, Canada.

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The Taiwan Fund, Inc. (NYSE:TWN  Free Report) was the target of a large growth in short interest during the month of June. As of June 15th, there was short interest totalling 5,600 shares, a growth of 80.6% from the May 31st total of 3,100 shares. Based on an average daily volume of 15,700 shares, the short-interest ratio is currently 0.4 days.

The Taiwan Fund Price Performance

Shares of NYSE:TWN traded down $0.12 during trading on Friday, hitting $31.34. The company had a trading volume of 3,482 shares, compared to its average volume of 16,043. The Taiwan Fund has a one year low of $18.35 and a one year high of $31.89. The company has a fifty day simple moving average of $28.47 and a two-hundred day simple moving average of $26.77.

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Institutional Investors Weigh In On The Taiwan Fund

Several institutional investors have recently modified their holdings of the stock. Advisor Group Holdings Inc. lifted its stake in shares of The Taiwan Fund by 21.7% during the 1st quarter. Advisor Group Holdings Inc. now owns 3,652 shares of the companys stock worth $121,000 after acquiring an additional 651 shares during the last quarter. Raymond James & Associates lifted its stake in shares of The Taiwan Fund by 3.9% during the 1st quarter. Raymond James & Associates now owns 17,644 shares of the companys stock worth $580,000 after acquiring an additional 664 shares during the last quarter. UBS Group AG lifted its stake in shares of The Taiwan Fund by 198.2% during the 2nd quarter. UBS Group AG now owns 1,333 shares of the companys stock worth $33,000 after acquiring an additional 886 shares during the last quarter. Captrust Financial Advisors bought a new stake in shares of The Taiwan Fund during the 2nd quarter worth approximately $83,000. Finally, Matisse Capital bought a new stake in shares of The Taiwan Fund during the 4th quarter worth approximately $262,000. 88.58% of the stock is owned by institutional investors.

The Taiwan Fund Company Profile

The Taiwan Fund, Inc is a closed-ended equity mutual fund launched and managed by JF International Management Inc It invests in the public equity markets of Taiwan. The fund seeks to invest in stocks of companies operating across diversified sectors. It employs fundamental analysis focusing on such factors as overall growth prospects, competitive position in the respective industry, technology, research, and development, productivity, labor costs, raw material costs and sources, profit margins, return on investment, capital resources, government regulation, and management to create its portfolio.

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This aerial photo taken on Jan. 28, 2023 shows a night view of the Datang Everbright City scenic area in Xi'an, northwest China's Shaanxi Province. (Xinhua/Liu Xiao)

* Understanding China requires grasping the "cultural and civilizational soil" in which the CPC is firmly rooted.

* The "Second Integration" provides insight into Chinese modernization and a new model for human advancement.

* The integration serves as China's new statecraft in the new era, answering "Why China is China" based on its history and culture.





by Xinhua writer Zhang Yunlong

BEIJING, July 2 (Xinhua) -- A new research report from Xinhua News Agency's think tank delves into the Communist Party of China (CPC) concept of integrating the basic tenets of Marxism with fine traditional Chinese culture, known as the "Second Integration."

The report by the New China Research analyzes the connotation and global significance of the "Second Integration," saying the integration opens a new frontier in adapting Marxism to the Chinese context and the needs of the times.

The "Second Integration" serves as a key to unlocking the understanding of China in the new era, providing insight into Chinese modernization and a new model for human advancement, according to the report. It also offers a valuable perspective for observing the relationship between China and the world.

The concept was introduced by President Xi Jinping, also general secretary of the CPC Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, in his speech commemorating the CPC's 100th anniversary on July 1, 2021.

It builds on the CPC's "First Integration" theoretical synthesis -- integrating the basic tenets of Marxism with China's specific realities -- which was summarized in the 1940s and has successfully guided China.

Experts in CPC history and traditional Chinese culture have acclaimed the release of the report titled "The 'Second Integration' that Transforms China -- Theoretical Innovation and Practice in Building the Modern Civilization of the Chinese Nation."

The report helps explain to the world why China possesses such strong governance and vitality, and why it is a crucial force in maintaining world peace and development, says Zang Fengyu, dean of School of Philosophy, Renmin University of China.

TWO MIRACLES

Under the CPC's leadership, China has achieved rapid growth and stability for over seven decades -- feats widely referred to as "two miracles." The report says understanding China requires grasping the "cultural and civilizational soil" in which the CPC is firmly rooted.

The report describes China's "two miracles" as truly remarkable, featuring "security, stability, development, and advancement" alongside 10,000 years of culture and more than 5,000 years of civilization that continues to thrive today.

"Without China's 5,000-year-old civilization, where would the unique characteristics of China come from? And without the unique characteristics of China, where would our successful socialist path with Chinese characteristics be today?" said Xi during a March 2021 visit to a memorial hall dedicated to Zhu Xi, a Chinese philosopher of the 12th century.

The report says understanding China today hinges on understanding the CPC, which in turn requires understanding the "cultural and civilizational soil" in which the Party grew.

The report describes the "Second Integration" synthesis as a significant advance in the CPC's theory.

It says the synthesis fully captures the current landscape, aligns with the Chinese national rejuvenation goals, and symbolizes Chinese leaders guiding people to reconstruct historical perspectives, reinterpret their civilization, and elucidate China's governance.

People visit the Liangzhu Museum in Yuhang District of Hangzhou, capital of east China's Zhejiang Province, March 4, 2023. (Xinhua/Xu Yu)

CONNOTATION

The report says integrating the basic tenets of Marxism with fine traditional Chinese culture enriches China's socialist path with the "bloodline and civilization" of the Chinese nation.

It says this integration combines communist and socialist beliefs with the millennia-old ideals of the Chinese people -- Xiaokang (a well-off society), common prosperity, and world harmony.

While adhering to historical materialism, the report says, the CPC creatively borrows the "reasonable kernel" of China's people-oriented ideology spanning 5,000 years of history.

The result has been a people-centered development philosophy that elevates ancient Chinese people-oriented thinking to a new level, the report adds.

The integration also features combining core socialist values with the traditional values of the Chinese nation, creating a source of spiritual values for the nation, the report says.

China's fine traditional culture has always embodied the spirit of pursuing the right path with righteousness, it notes.

The report says that the integration also combines the vision of a community with a shared future for humanity proposed by Xi with a traditional Chinese diplomatic approach centered on harmony among nations.

GLOBAL INSPIRATIONS

The report says the "Second Integration" serves as China's new statecraft in the new era, answering "Why China is China" based on its history and culture.

A nation's culture defines its soul, and China's confidence lies in its over 5,000 years of heritage, the report says. It stresses accurately positioning China's fine traditional culture, which nurtured core socialist values and withstands global cultural influences.

The report points out that the new theory "goes beyond Western centrism and China's outdated notions since modern times, reconstructing Chinese people's historical awareness of their own country."

The "Second Integration" can effectively explain today's reality of China's success, further enabling the Chinese people to grasp the historical initiative and spiritual initiative, it says.

"Through the theory, Chinese leaders have reshaped the country's cultural identity and public consensus, thereby strengthening national identity and political identity," reads the report.

The report says the integration helps China reinterpret its civilization and promote civilizational exchanges.

China emphasizes allowing cultural exchanges to transcend estrangement, mutual learning to transcend clashes, and coexistence to transcend feelings of superiority, the report adds.

Additionally, the report notes that China's tradition of pursuing harmony with the world and the CPC's global vision differs from the Western worldview that treats the world as an object to conquer.

"China in the new era approaches the world with an attitude of interconnection, interdependence, win-win cooperation, and harmonious coexistence," it says. 
Piper Sandler began coverage on shares of TJX Companies (NYSE:TJX  Free Report) in a research report released on Thursday, The Fly reports. The brokerage issued an overweight rating and a $110.00 target price on the apparel and home fashions retailers stock.

Several other research analysts have also commented on TJX. Morgan Stanley raised their price objective on TJX Companies from $90.00 to $93.00 in a research report on Thursday, May 18th. Barclays lifted their price target on TJX Companies from $93.00 to $95.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a research note on Thursday, May 18th. StockNews.com assumed coverage on TJX Companies in a research note on Thursday, May 18th. They issued a buy rating for the company. Finally, Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft boosted their price target on TJX Companies from $85.00 to $86.00 in a research report on Thursday, May 18th. Two research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and fifteen have issued a buy rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the company has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $87.88.

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TJX Companies Price Performance

Shares of NYSE:TJX opened at $84.79 on Thursday. TJX Companies has a one year low of $54.55 and a one year high of $85.22. The businesss fifty day moving average price is $79.14 and its two-hundred day moving average price is $78.82. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.45, a quick ratio of 0.58 and a current ratio of 1.20. The stock has a market cap of $97.44 billion, a PE ratio of 26.09, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 2.24 and a beta of 0.90.

TJX Companies Announces Dividend

TJX Companies ( NYSE:TJX Free Report ) last issued its earnings results on Wednesday, May 17th. The apparel and home fashions retailer reported $0.76 earnings per share for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $0.71 by $0.05. TJX Companies had a return on equity of 62.78% and a net margin of 7.56%. The firm had revenue of $11.78 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $11.82 billion. During the same quarter last year, the firm earned $0.68 earnings per share. The firms revenue for the quarter was up 3.3% compared to the same quarter last year. On average, analysts forecast that TJX Companies will post 3.56 EPS for the current fiscal year.

The firm also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Thursday, August 31st. Investors of record on Thursday, August 10th will be given a dividend of $0.3325 per share. This represents a $1.33 annualized dividend and a yield of 1.57%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Wednesday, August 9th. TJX Companiess payout ratio is 40.92%.

Insider Activity at TJX Companies

In other TJX Companies news, EVP Scott Goldenberg sold 26,271 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction dated Thursday, May 18th. The stock was sold at an average price of $78.91, for a total value of $2,073,044.61. Following the transaction, the executive vice president now owns 72,580 shares in the company, valued at $5,727,287.80. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through the SEC website. 0.19% of the stock is owned by insiders.

Institutional Trading of TJX Companies

Several large investors have recently made changes to their positions in the stock. Narus Financial Partners LLC bought a new stake in shares of TJX Companies during the 1st quarter worth about $207,000. Berkshire Asset Management LLC PA acquired a new stake in TJX Companies during the 1st quarter valued at $390,000. EP Wealth Advisors LLC acquired a new stake in TJX Companies during the 1st quarter valued at $3,082,000. Golden State Equity Partners bought a new position in TJX Companies in the 1st quarter valued at $214,000. Finally, Macquarie Group Ltd. boosted its position in TJX Companies by 2.5% in the 1st quarter. Macquarie Group Ltd. now owns 6,872,586 shares of the apparel and home fashions retailers stock valued at $538,535,000 after buying an additional 165,713 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors own 92.26% of the companys stock.

TJX Companies Company Profile

(Free Report)

The TJX Companies, Inc, together with its subsidiaries, operates as an off-price apparel and home fashions retailer in the United States, Canada, Europe, and Australia. It operates through four segments: Marmaxx, HomeGoods, TJX Canada, and TJX International. The company sells family apparel, including footwear and accessories; home fashions, such as home basics, furniture, rugs, lighting products, giftware, soft home products, decorative accessories, tabletop, and cookware, as well as expanded pet, kids, and gourmet food departments; jewelry and accessories; and other merchandise.

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The market reached new heights on the very first day of the July series, i.e. June 30, mainly backed by technology and banking & financial services stocks. The volatility also sustained at historic lows, indicating the markets may remain stable in the near future.



The BSE Sensex rallied 803 points or 1.26 percent to 64,719, while the Nifty50 jumped 217 points or 1.14 percent to 19,189 and formed a bullish candlestick pattern on the daily charts, with making higher highs, higher lows formation for the third straight session.



"This surge in the Nifty followed a breakout from a period of consolidation, indicating strong bullish reversal. The overall trend appears positive in the near term as the index has consistently remained above its moving average," said Rupak De, Senior Technical analyst at LKP Securities.



Furthermore, he feels the momentum indicator RSI (relative strength index) has shown a bullish crossover on the daily timeframe, suggesting strong momentum.



Looking ahead, "there is potential for the index to move towards 19,450 in the short term, indicating further upward movement. However, on the downside, there is support at 19,000," De said.



Bulls also support the broader markets throughout week as the Nifty Midcap 100 and Smallcap 100 index gained 0.66 percent and 0.42 percent, respectively.







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



The pivot point calculator suggests that the Nifty may get support at 19,071, followed by 19,029 and 18,961, whereas in the case of an upside, 19,206 can be a key resistance area for the index, followed by 19,248 and 19,316.



Nifty Bank



The Bank Nifty gave a strong closing above 44,500 levels, rising 420 points to 44,747, and formed small bodied bullish candlestick pattern with long lower shadow on the daily charts, indicating support-based buying at lower levels.



Looking ahead, "the Bank Nifty is looking to pave the way for 45,200 and 45,500," said Arvinder Singh Nanda, Senior Vice President of Master Capital Services.



He believes any correctional decline for 44,400 and 44500 may provide an opportunity to establish fresh long positions. However, it is important to remain cautious, as a sustainable fall below the support level of 44,200 could potentially impact the current bullish sentiments, he said.



The pivot point calculator indicated that the Bank Nifty is likely to take support at 44,531, followed by 44,451 and 44,321, whereas 44,790 can be the initial resistance zone for the index, followed by 44,871 and 45,000.







Call options data



As per weekly options data, the maximum Call open interest (OI) was at 19,500 strike, with 73.43 lakh contracts, which can act as a crucial resistance area for the Nifty50 in coming sessions.



This was followed by 68.75 lakh contracts at 19,200 strike, while 19,400 strike has 62.31 lakh contracts.



The meaningful Call writing was seen at 19,400 strike, which added 35.95 lakh contracts, followed by 19,200 strike and 19,300 strike, which added 35.2 lakh and 25.02 lakh contracts respectively.



Maximum Call unwinding was at 19,000 strike, which shed 20.68 lakh contracts, followed by 18,900 and 18,800 strikes, which shed 6.27 lakh and 95,400 contracts, respectively.







Put option data



On the Put side, the maximum open interest was at 19,000 strike, with 1.18 crore contracts, which can be a crucial support level for the Nifty50 in the coming sessions.



This was followed by the 19,100 strike, comprising 85.26 lakh contracts, and the 18,900 strike, which has 77.2 lakh contracts.



Put writing was seen at 19,100 strike, which added 77.83 lakh contracts, followed by 19,000 strike and 19,200 strike, which added 69.45 lakh contracts and 43.86 lakh contracts, respectively.



We have not seen any Put unwinding within 18,000-20,000 strikes range.







Stocks with high delivery percentage



A high delivery percentage suggests that investors are showing interest in the stock. We have seen the highest delivery in Bharti Airtel, Havells India, HDFC, ICICI Lombard General Insurance Company, and Dabur India among others.







108 stocks see a long build-up



We have seen a long build-up in 108 stocks including Escorts, Birlasoft, Bandhan Bank, HDFC AMC, and Biocon, based on the open interest (OI) percentage. An increase in open interest and price indicates a build-up of long positions.







14 stocks see long unwinding



Based on the OI percentage, 14 stocks including Can Fin Homes, Piramal Enterprises, Bajaj Auto, JK Cement, and Polycab India saw a long unwinding. A decline in OI and price generally indicates a long unwinding.







35 stocks see a short build-up



We have seen a short build-up in 35 stocks including MCX India, Granules India, Gujarat Gas, LIC Housing Finance, and Havells India, based on the OI percentage. An increase in OI along with a price decrease indicates a build-up of short positions.







31 stocks see short-covering



Based on the OI percentage, 31 stocks were on the short-covering list. These included Aditya Birla Capital, Mphasis, Max Financial Services, Coforge, and Cummins India. A decrease in OI along with a price increase is an indication of short-covering.







Bulk deals







(For more bulk deals, click here)



Investors Meetings on July 3







Stocks in the news



Reliance Industries: RIL and bp p.l.c. announced commencement of production from the MJ field. The MJ field represents the last of three major new deepwater developments the RIL-bp consortium have brought into production in block KG D6 off the east coast of India. Together, the three fields are expected to produce around 30 million standard cubic metres of gas a day (1 billion cubic feet a day) when MJ field reaches peak production.



Housing Development Finance Corporation: The boards of mortgage lender Housing Development Finance Corporation (HDFC) and leading private sector lender HDFC Bank have approved July 1 as the effective date of merger, and July 13 as the record date. Post the deal, HDFC Bank will be 100 percent owned by public shareholders, and existing shareholders of HDFC will own 41 percent of the bank.



Vedanta: The subsidiary of Vedanta Resources has decided to initiate a strategic review of its steel and steel making raw materials businesses. The review will begin immediately and evaluate a broad range of options to maximize stakeholder value, including but not limited to a potential strategic sale of some or all of the steel businesses. The company has engaged advisors to assist in this review.



Maruti Suzuki India: The country's largest car maker has sold 1.59 lakh units in June 2023, rising 2.3 percent over 1.55 lakh units sold in same month last year. Domestic sales increased by 5.77 percent to 1.39 lakh units, but exports dropped 17 percent to 19,770 units.



Hero MotoCorp: The country's largest two-wheeler maker will make an upward revision in the ex-showroom prices of its motorcycles and scooters, effective from July 3, 2023. The price increase will be around 1.5 percent and the exact quantum of increase will vary by specific models and markets.



Granules India: Companys unit-IV facility at Visakhapatnam in Andhra Pradesh has successfully completed the US FDAs pre-approval inspection (PAI) and GMP audit with zero 483 observations. The USFDA conducted inspection of the said facility during June 26 and 30. Unit-IV facility manufactures active pharmaceutical ingredients (API).



Aditya Birla Capital: Aditya Birla Capital has completed the fund raise of Rs 3,000 crore, through a qualified institutional placement (QIP) of equity shares worth Rs 1,750 crore and a preferential issuance of equity shares worth Rs 1,250 crore to its promoter and promoter group entity, Grasim Industries and Surya Kiran Investments Pte Ltd, respectively.



Fund Flow







FII and DII data



Foreign institutional investors (FII) bought shares worth Rs 6,397.13 crore, while domestic institutional investors (DII) purchased shares worth Rs 1,197.64 crore on June 30, provisional data from the National Stock Exchange shows.



Stock under F&O ban on NSE



The National Stock Exchange has added Indiabulls Housing Finance to its F&O ban list for July 3. Securities thus banned under the F&O segment include companies where derivative contracts have crossed 95 percent of the market-wide position limit.



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.
Days after the Enforcement Directorate (ED) took the chairman of Supertech into custody until July 10, some homebuyers voiced their concern that their houses may not be completed and the developer may find it difficult to secure funding to finish the pending projects. Others, who have been waiting for almost a decade to get possession of their flats, believe that it makes no difference because if the promoter had the intention of completing the units, he would have done so long back.



Some buyers are concerned that the real estate firm may find it difficult to secure funds to complete the project given that the promoter faces a case under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) for the alleged laundering of bank loans worth Rs 1,500 crore.



How is taking the builder into custody going to solve my problem? said Gautam Sethi, who had booked an apartment in Gurugram under a subvention scheme almost a decade ago, and has paid Supertech more than 90 percent of the amount. A subvention scheme is a home loan where the buyer does not pay the EMI for a certain period, and the builder bears the interest for the same.



Sethi had invested in a house in 2015 and had no clue whether he would get possession of his unit in a project called Hill Crest, which is part of a larger project known as Hill Town. I am not worried that he has been taken into custody, because even when he was not behind bars nothing was accomplished. Ultimately, it is to do with intention. He had more than a decade to complete the project. As far as shortage of funds is concerned, we have been hearing this for the last 10 years, he said.



Sethi and other buyers from the project have knocked the doors of all legal fora the High Court, Supreme Court (SC), the Real Estate Regulatory Authority (RERA), the National Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission (NCDRC), and even filed an FIR with the Economic Offences Wing (EOW).



Amit Gupta, a buyer from Noida, is of the opinion that the arrest may hamper further construction in projects that are yet to be completed. It may even become difficult to get information on financial dealings and documents, etc. Tribunals may get overburdened with cases with everyone wanting to recover their money. This may aggravate the problem instead of resolving anything, he said.



Experts say that buyers had found themselves in a similar situation in the Amrapali case. It took a long time to get the financial documents and information about who all the assets had been pledged to.



Also, in 2019, when an SC bench of Justices Arun Mishra and U U Lalit asked the Noida authorities whether they would be able to complete the task, they said it would not be possible for them to do so.



We are not technically competent and lack the expertise to do the task. Let some reputed developer complete the project, and a monitoring committee appointed by the court should keep an eye on it, the lawyer appearing for the Noida authority had told the bench. The Greater Noida authority also took the same stand.



Amit Goenka, CEO, Nisus Finance, feels that when the promoter of a project is taken into custody, it becomes harder for someone else to complete the project given that the developer maintains all the records and is in control of the project. Without the promoters intervention, it becomes difficult to resolve the issue even if the lenders were to enforce their rights under law. Procuring financial data becomes harder, he explained.



D K Sinha, another buyer who had invested in a Supertech project in Greater Noida, said that while he received possession in 2016, there is no boundary wall and nor have any facilities been provided to the buyers as only a portion of the project is complete.



Advocate Aditya Porolia, who has handled several cases on behalf of homebuyers, said that funding may be difficult to come by under such circumstances. We are in discussions with some homebuyers to move the courts to ask the government to take over the entire company and complete the project.



Heena Chheda, Partner at Economic Laws Practice, a law firm, said that serious non-compliance by developers leading to legal action will make funding extremely difficult given the (tight) regulatory environment. The pool of funders will narrow down to corporates with high governance and a good track record in completing projects.



There was no response from the builder to queries sent by Moneycontrol.



On June 27, the ED had arrested Arora on charges of money laundering. He was taken into custody following a third round of questioning at the agency's office, the ED said in a statement on June 28.



The investigation by ED showed that in 2013-14, Supertech Group had siphoned Rs 440 crore of homebuyers money to purchase land in Gurugram at highly inflated prices, and they did not complete the projects in Noida. Instead, a new project was launched on this newly-acquired land and further advances were collected from hundreds of homebuyers, and loans were taken from banks / non-banking financial corporations (NBFC), which became non-performing assets (NPA). The lenders accused the builder of fraud.



Similarly, Rs 154 crore was allegedly misappropriated by Supertech for acquiring land in the name of another shell company in the same time period. Also, Rs 40 crore was allegedly siphoned off to another shell company and land was purchased in its name in Delhi, the ED statement said.



Funds were thus diverted to shell companies instead of being used for ongoing projects that are still incomplete. During this period, Arora was the main controlling and decision-making authority for Supertech Group, who decided to siphon the monies, the statement added.



In May this year, the companys insolvency resolution plan was cleared by the Supreme Court.



The Delhi bench of the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) had ordered the initiation of insolvency proceedings against Supertech in March 2022 on a petition filed by the Union Bank of India for non-payment of dues of around Rs 432 crore.
Note to readers: The Whole Truth is a fortnightly column that helps you make sense of the new age of wellness



Dr Vivek Murthy, US surgeon general, declared Americas brand new epidemic last month. And its loneliness. He released an 81-page report from his office that said conclusively that widespread loneliness in the US poses health risks as deadly as smoking up to 15 cigarettes a day, costing the health industry billions of dollars annually. After the pandemic, this sounds like a crisis we already seemingly know how to brave. But this is not new. Loneliness is pain. It is lack of connection and intimacy. Since forever, loneliness which is not a choice, has been a trigger for mental ailments.



This is what neuroscientists believe happens in your brain when you are lonely: The human brain has evolved seeking safety in numbers and groups, and registering loneliness as a threat. Amygdala, the core of a neural system in our brains for detecting and processing threat, go into an overdrive, triggering a release of fight or flight stress hormones. Your heart rate rises, your blood pressure and blood sugar level increase to provide energy in case you need it. Your body produces extra inflammatory cells to repair tissue damage and prevent infection, and fewer antibodies to fight viruses. Subconsciously, as you start getting used to living that way, you view other people more as potential threats and less as friends or well-wishers who could be remedies for your loneliness.



So the theory that floated during the pandemic that social isolation was a double-edged sword  that while we could escape the virus, our immune system wasnt the best it could be because of the isolation  is not entirely baseless.



Several new studies and several more in the last decade have pointed to this connection between loneliness and health. This year, a study by the journal Nature Human Behavior, which involved more than two million adults, a meta-analysis of 90 previously published studies, examined the links between social isolation and early death and found that participants who experienced loneliness had a 14 per cent higher risk of dying early compared to those who didnt feel lonely. Participants who experienced social isolation, on the other hand, were 32 per cent more likely to die early compared to those who werent socially isolated. Participants were followed for anywhere from six months to 25 years. A 2023 paper published in Science Advances found that people who had stronger social bonds, whether with their friends and family or with an extended group like their government or country, were less likely to be anxious or depressed compared to those who didnt. The study also found that people who had an easy time connecting with society reported higher levels of well-being. Blimey! Isnt the desire or inability to connect with society more common than we think? Isnt solitude and pursuing our own tribe no matter how long it takes also therapeutic when society around us is always expecting us to be a certain way?



In India, loneliness takes on a dimension thats far removed from the individual-first culture of the West. Besides our immediate family, the people who are over-interested in our friends and connections and over-eager to help us find a soulmate who they think are right for us are our uncles and aunts, nephews and nieces, besties from school, colleagues and bosses, neighbours and domestic helps  basically, everybody.



Our loneliness is much worse because those of us with minds and hearts that refuse to follow are lonely in crowds. And when we cut off from oppressive or limiting situations and settings, it can even be seen as taboo. If we havent found a life partner on our own, it is the responsibility of these aforementioned people to find one for us with dire urgency and purpose.



It is obvious by now that Indians in their 20s and 30s now are much bigger fans of structure, planning and balance than the generations before. Self-care is their religion  the idea of self-care being predicated on the fact that it is for us, our unique problems and issues and can heal us the persons. The hope, perhaps, is that all of us in our individual healing chambers will one day meet each others best selves and we can all go back to being connected.



The sustainable, healthy cure for loneliness, at least in India, is being part of communities that understand us, accept us and gain from us. No shrink can cure loneliness and amp up our immune cells if we hold on to the idea that finding a life-partner or spouse and having our own children are the only ways we can find connection and intimacy.
Qu Dongyu delivers a speech after being re-elected as director-general of the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) in Rome, Italy, July 2, 2023. Qu Dongyu was re-elected as director-general of the FAO here on Sunday during the ongoing 43rd session of the FAO Conference. (Xinhua/Jin Mamengni)

ROME, July 2 (Xinhua) -- Qu Dongyu was re-elected as director-general of the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) here on Sunday during the ongoing 43rd session of the FAO Conference.

Qu was first elected in June 2019 to head the UN agency and is the first Chinese national to serve in the position.

Since assuming office, Qu has actively led the FAO to address the challenges concerning global food security and contribute to the food and agricultural development of all countries, especially developing countries. His efforts have been extensively recognized by FAO member nations.

Founded in 1945 and headquartered in Rome, Italy, FAO is a specialized UN agency leading cooperation in food and agriculture. The organization plays a vital role in global food and agricultural policy exchanges, standard-setting, information gathering and statistics. 

Qu Dongyu delivers a speech after being re-elected as director-general of the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) in Rome, Italy, July 2, 2023. Qu Dongyu was re-elected as director-general of the FAO here on Sunday during the ongoing 43rd session of the FAO Conference. (Xinhua/Jin Mamengni)

Qu Dongyu (2nd L) receives congratulations after being re-elected as director-general of the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) in Rome, Italy, July 2, 2023. Qu Dongyu was re-elected as director-general of the FAO here on Sunday during the ongoing 43rd session of the FAO Conference. (Xinhua/Jin Mamengni)

Qu Dongyu (L) shakes hands with Marie-Claude Bibeau, Chairperson of the 43rd session of the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) Conference, after being re-elected as director-general of the FAO in Rome, Italy, July 2, 2023. Qu Dongyu was re-elected as director-general of the FAO here on Sunday during the ongoing 43rd session of the FAO Conference. (Xinhua/Jin Mamengni)

Qu Dongyu (C) receives congratulations after being re-elected as director-general of the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) in Rome, Italy, July 2, 2023. Qu Dongyu was re-elected as director-general of the FAO here on Sunday during the ongoing 43rd session of the FAO Conference. (Xinhua/Jin Mamengni)

Qu Dongyu (C) receives congratulations after being re-elected as director-general of the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) in Rome, Italy, July 2, 2023. Qu Dongyu was re-elected as director-general of the FAO here on Sunday during the ongoing 43rd session of the FAO Conference. (Xinhua/Jin Mamengni)

United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) Director-General Qu Dongyu (C) attends the 43rd session of the FAO Conference in Rome, Italy, July 2, 2023. Qu Dongyu was re-elected as director-general of the FAO here on Sunday. (Xinhua/Jin Mamengni)

This photo taken on July 2, 2023 shows a scene at the 43rd session of the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) Conference in Rome, Italy. Qu Dongyu was re-elected as director-general of the FAO here on Sunday. (Xinhua/Jin Mamengni)
Fox News has agreed to pay $12 million to Abby Grossberg, a former Fox News producer who had accused the network of operating a hostile and discriminatory workplace and of coercing her into providing false testimony in a deposition.



Parisis G. Filippatos, a lawyer for Grossberg, said that the settlement concluded all of Grossbergs claims against Fox and the people she had named in her complaints, including former host Tucker Carlson and some of his producers.



Grossbergs legal team filed a request in U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York on Friday to dismiss a remaining lawsuit against Fox in light of the settlement.



Grossberg said in a statement Friday that she stood by her allegations, but she was heartened that Fox News has taken me and my legal claims seriously.



I am hopeful, based on our discussions with Fox News today, that this resolution represents a positive step by the network regarding its treatment of women and minorities in the workplace, she said.



Fox News had previously disputed Grossbergs claims. A spokesperson for the network said in a statement Friday: We are pleased that we have been able to resolve this matter without further litigation.



Justin Wells, a former senior executive producer for Carlson, who was named in a complaint, said in a post on Twitter: We deny Ms. Grossbergs claims and allegations against Tucker Carlson and his team. Nevertheless, we are glad that Fox has settled this matter and that all sides can move forward.



The settlement with Grossberg is the latest development in a series of legal battles involving Fox. In April, the company agreed to pay Dominion Voting Systems $787.5 million, in what is believed to be the biggest settlement figure in a defamation case. Days later, Fox took Carlson, its most popular host, off the air after the companys leadership concluded he was more of a problem than an asset and had to go.



Fox faces a second defamation case by another voting technology company. Smartmatic, like Dominion, says Fox knowingly spread false information about its products, baselessly claiming that they contributed to election fraud in 2020.



The accusations against Fox by Grossberg, 42, sprung partly from the Dominion case. In March, she filed a lawsuit in Delaware, claiming that Fox coerced her into lying in sworn testimony she gave in the case. Grossberg amended her witness testimony before the Dominion trial, presenting another hurdle for Foxs legal team, which had been dealt a series of blows in pretrial rulings.



Grossberg also filed a separate lawsuit in New York that accused Fox and Carlson of allowing a culture of rampant misogyny. She said she had been subjected to sexist and antisemitic harassment during her time as the head of booking on Tucker Carlson Tonight.



Fox fired Grossberg four days after she filed the two lawsuits, saying in a statement at the time that she had disclosed privileged information about the Dominion case. She withdrew the Delaware suit in May, but her lawyer said at the time that they planned to refile in New York.



Grossberg joined Fox News in 2019 as a senior producer for host Maria Bartiromo. In August 2022, she moved to Carlsons team as the head of booking.



In her lawsuit, Grossberg said she found a workplace tainted by misogyny and harassment, where male producers were openly sexist to her and her co-workers, made crude jokes and had decorated the space with photos of Nancy Pelosi, then the House speaker, in a swimsuit showing cleavage.



Grossberg never met Carlson, who worked mostly from his homes in Florida and Maine, but she corresponded with him frequently over email, text and video calls. Carlsons staff in New York was led by Wells, the senior executive producer. (Wells was fired by Fox in April.)



After filing her lawsuits, Grossberg drip-fed audio recordings from her time at Fox to other media organizations. The recordings showed, among other things, Carlsons immense influence on the Republican Party; an admission by Rudy Giuliani, lawyer to former President Donald Trump, that he didnt have evidence of voter fraud; and discussions between Sen. Ted Cruz of Texas and Bartiromo about his attempts to audit the 2020 election results.



Filippatos confirmed that he had been contacted by the office of the special counsel investigating Trumps efforts to overturn the 2020 election, and that he and his client were cooperating. At least 90 tapes had been retrieved and Grossbergs legal team was forensically analyzing all of Grossbergs devices in case there were any additional recordings, Filippatos said.



Grossberg said she would not comment further on her accusations against Fox or her time at the company, but would continue to speak out on issues and causes that I believe in, including journalism, equality, dignity and respect in the workplace.



This article originally appeared in The New York Times.
Skip the usual stops like Switzerland and California on your world chocolate tour. There are more ways to experience the world of modern chocolate-making right here in India, and abroad.



The chocolate experience while flying out: All major airports across India



Some of Indias best chocolate brands and retail destinations, such as Smoor and Cococart, an upmarket chocolate retail format, have cafes in all major airports. Their chocolate-laden coffees and hot chocolate are streets ahead of any Starbucks you may buy. Smoors flat whites and cappuccinos are richer due to the use of Couverture chocolates that contain a higher amount of cocoa butter.



Among airlines, the best chocolate experience can be had aboard an Emirates flight. After the airlines collab with Dublin-based Butlers Chocolates, they serve chocolate-infused coffee and bars of chocolates to first-class customers. A definite must-have is their truffles and fudge chocolates.







The new cacao frontier: Kerala



Kerala, home to several spice plantations, now also boasts modern cacao plantations that produce the best of Indian chocolate. At Malabar Cacao and Spices in Wayanad, workshops and tours introduce travellers to organic farming practices and the cacao that grows on the estate. Cacao County in the picturesque Idukki district and Cacao Trails in Kannur are boutique plantations where the focus is on preserving traditional farming methods and heritage cacao varieties.







Chocolate Tasting: Mumbai



One of the best chocolate-tasting sessions in India is conducted by Mandar Bhosale, who gave up his flourishing corporate career and moved to Pune to become a chocolate sommelier. His Confessions of a Chocolatier sessions have been wildly popular, and he engages people with stories about chocolates, the process of making them and how to savour them (much like fine wine) and find notes of wine, raspberry, nuts, and woody tones present within pure chocolate without added flavours.



The city chocolate experience: Cape Town, South Africa



In what may surprise many, Cape Town is considered the Willy Wonka town full of independent chocolatiers. De Villiers, a vegan-friendly chocolatier at Paarl Spice Route Farm, is part of the Rainforest Alliance (a non-profit working on the intersection of business, agriculture and forests) and offers a tasting of four different chocolates, among them an African Collection made from pure African cocoa beans. Huguenot Fine Chocolates lies in a valley full of rolling vineyards and fringed by mountains.



Spier Wine Farm, voted one of the 100 Worlds Best Vineyards in 2021, offers delicious parings of chocolates crafted by its resident chocolatier with robust flavours from the winerys liquid treasures. Afrikao, along the V&A Waterfront, is pioneering the art of ethical Direct Trade chocolate making in Africa. They only use cacao that comes from within Africa and has strong bonds with Tanzania's Tujikomboe Cocoa Farmer Group that grows cocoa with a high flavour profile.







The chocolate heartland: Mexico



Mayans and Aztecs were among the first to cultivate cacao and are said to have binged on a bitter cocoa concoction called Xocoatl, described as a cold and heavy brew served during ceremonies or other such occasions. The chocolate experience in Mexico has evolved to include local chocolatiers, who make the most sinful hot chocolates and chocolate bars.



At Hacienda Cacaotera Jesus Maria, travellers can book a stay, visit the cacao plantations and factory, and explore local cuisine and music. The San Miguel de Allende Chocolate Tour takes travellers to various chocolatiers, introduces them to Mexicos 4,000-year-old chocolate history and throws in a big meal which includes a savoury chocolate dish.







Climate-resistant cacao: Peru



The biggest challenge to chocolate today is the warming weather. However, there is some hope. The forests of Peru are home to wild strains of cacao which are resilient to climate change. Scientists estimate that they will continue to thrive and expand by more than a third by 2070. What you may get is rather expensive and exclusive chocolates, as it is difficult to convert these plants into cash crops.



Peru offers a tour of its Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu and its wild cacao forests, which takes travellers deep into the Andean homelands, where they stay with local families in comfortable home stays, explore forests for wild cacao and other forest produce, and visit the small cocoa farms, where locals produce chocolate sustainably.







Along the Ivory Coast: Cote d'Ivoire



Most of the worlds cocoa, at the moment, comes from either Cote d'Ivoire or Ghana. Head to Soubre, often called the new cocoa loop for its lush plantations and the quality of its cacao. While the Ivory Coast produces only raw cacao (the big money is in the finished product or the chocolate), a new generation of Ivory Coast chocolatiers is trying to keep the wealth within the country.



Financed by the government and international aid agencies, the chocolatiers are turning cocoa beans into cocoa powder, beverages, chocolate bars and other goodies, helping develop a local chocolate industry. At Choco+, cacao is turned into chocolate and cocoa tea, among other products. Ivory Coasts chocolatiers experiment with cocoa-flavoured beer, vinegar, and chocolate beverage mixed with bouye, the juice of the baobab trees fruit, besides pralines and chocolate bars.







The Making of Royce: Japan



The world is obsessed with the beauty and complexity of Japanese cult chocolatier, Royces chocolates. In the New Chitose Airport in its home base of Hokkaido, the brand has set up the Royce Chocolate World Museum and Factory. Visitors explore the history of chocolate, watch chocolatiers make chocolate behind large glass panes, take a souvenir photograph with a giant chocolate teddy bear, indulge in freshly baked products in the bakery, and buy from over 200 treats, including Royces popular chocolate-covered potato chips.
So you want to start a home bar. Maybe its a lifelong dream; maybe its all those quarantinis on Instagram. Maybe youre looking to master the art of the cocktail; maybe you just want something to sip after a long day spent social distancing. Whatever your goal, the trick to drawing out your inner bartender is to improvise and innovate, and above all, keep it simple.



Cocktails are an intuitive process you should approach like you do cooking, said Tess Rose Lampert, a beverage educator. Some people follow the recipe to the T; some read many recipes, then make their own variation; some are comfortable substituting with whats on hand.



Ideally, a home bar will have a good supply of the basics. Start with a whiskey, preferably a bourbon or a rye  then go with vodka or gin, white rum and tequila or mezcal.



From there, pick three or four cocktails you know youll want to drink and augment your bar with a few special bottles. If youre partial to whiskey cocktails, add a blended scotch and a single malt; if you prefer tropical drinks, add an aged rum and a dark rum. If you like gin, get a London Dry, like Tanqueray, and a New Western Dry, like Hendricks (the first kind is juniper-forward; the second leans into the botanicals).



Bolster your booze squad with mixers. High-quality tonics, like Q or Fever Tree, which are made without high fructose corn syrup, are ideal, although you shouldnt sweat if all you can find is Schweppes. Youll also want some combination of soda water, seltzer, cola, ginger ale  any of these go with a base spirit and ice to make a highball, a delicious (and easy!) cocktail style.



Add at least one kind of all-around bitters, like Angostura or Peychauds. Many bartenders like to keep some orange bitters on hand, too (these are also liquor-store staples). Dont forget sweet and dry vermouth  yes, youll need both. Summer is coming, and even if youre stuck indoors, youll probably want something light  so get Campari or Aperol for spritzes, or an orange liqueur for margaritas.



Finally: citrus. Fresh, whole lemons, limes, grapefruit  keep them handy and change them up. Sometimes a twist of a citrus peel can completely change your whatever and soda, said Berit Jane Soli-Holt, who tends bar at Banzarbar in Manhattan and Jupiter Disco in Brooklyn.



When it comes to gear, the good news is that less is more. Troy Clarke, the founder of Twelve24 Cocktails, which makes professional bar equipment, recommends a couple of items: a jigger (with measurements between a half-ounce and 2 ounces), a tall mixing glass, a bar spoon and a shaker. He prefers a Boston shaker (two parts, one slightly larger than the other) over a cobbler shaker (smaller, with a built-in strainer). A Boston shaker is larger, so you can make two drinks at a time, but youll need to buy your own strainer.



Youll be surprised how many supermarkets carry basic bar equipment; its also easy to find online. But in a pinch, if you have a decently equipped kitchen, you have what you need already. Measuring cups double as jiggers; slotted spoons double as strainers. Mason jars or even metal water bottles work as shakers. At the end of the day, nothing is absolutely necessary outside of the booze, Clarke said.



Finally, in the internet age, recipes are just a few clicks away. But its worth investing in a few classic books, like Dale DeGroffs The Essential Cocktail or Gary Regans The Joy of Mixology; both are comprehensive and easily accessible for beginners with smaller bars. Both are bestsellers, and you can easily find them online. (You can also find hundreds of bartenders giving in-home lessons on Instagram these days.)



Once youve got the basics down, change them up. If youre quarantining, chances are youll have to tweak, compromise and substitute, and thats OK. Follow recipes in the beginning  but dont be afraid to mess with them, said DeGroff, a veteran bartender. Half the fun is making something new and uniquely your own.



And even as you map out your cocktail future, dont forget that, sometimes, you just want a shot of something tasty, right out of the bottle.



I also really believe in having something nice to sip on, like if youre home and you get some great news  or terrible  there should be something to sip straight, said Meaghan Dorman, the bar director at Raines Law Room and Dear Irving, both in Manhattan. I love Balvenie Caribbean Cask or Calvados. I also always have a bottle of Champagne. It is a fun errand when its time to replace, in normal times.



Here are some simple recipes to get started.



MANHATTAN



2 oz. whiskey (bourbon or rye)



1 oz. sweet vermouth



2 dashes bitters



Cocktail cherry



Combine ingredients over ice, and stir for 30 seconds. Strain into a glass and top it with the cherry as garnish. Ideally, youd use a coupe glass (similar to a martini glass, with sloped sides), but anything will do in a pinch. As a twist, use Scotch whisky instead, and youve got a Rob Roy.



SPRITZ



3 oz. prosecco (or Champagne, or even ginger ale, if thats what youve got)



2 oz. bitter liqueur (can be Aperol, Campari, Cynar, whatever)



1 oz. club soda



Combine over ice, stir lightly. Its that easy  and even easier to play around with.



TOMMY MARGARITA



2 oz. tequila (or split it evenly with mezcal)



1 oz. fresh lime juice



1/2 oz. agave nectar (but you can make simple syrup at home in a pinch)



Lime



Combine ingredients in a shaker, over ice. Give it several good shakes, then strain into a chilled glass over a single large ice cube. To make it complete, before adding the spirits, wet the rim of the glass and press it into a pile of salt. Garnish with a lime wedge.



By Clay Risen c.2020 The New York Times Company



Clay Risen is the deputy daily opinion editor at The Times and the author of Single Malt: A Guide to the Whiskies of Scotland and American Whiskey, Bourbon and Rye: A Guide to the Nations Favorite Spirit."
Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) leader Ajit Pawar, who had recently offered to resign as LoP (Leader of Opposition), took oath as Maharashtra's second deputy chief minister on July 2, with Chief Minister Eknath Shinde and existing Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis in attendance. This is the third time in four years that Ajit Pawar has taken oath oath as deputy chief minister. Former Maharashtra Home Minister and NCP leader Dilip Walse Patil also took oath as Maharashtra Minister. NCP leader Hasan Mushrif, the Kolhapur MLA, also was sworn in as a minister in Maharashtra Cabinet. New 18 reported earlier in the day that Pawar reached Raj Bhawan, accompanied by 29 NCP MLAs, including Chhagan Bhujbal, Praful Patel and Hasan Mushrif. Read our live blog on the Maharashtra development here Pawar's swearing-in follows rumors of his discontentment over not being appointed as the NCP's state unit chief. The meeting, originally scheduled for July 6 with the presence of NCP chief Sharad Pawar, who is currently in Pune, has been moved forward. Further behind the scene, the primary cause of the division appears to be discontent among Ajit Pawar's followers towards Supriya Sule and Sharad Pawar. This dissatisfaction arose when they attended a gathering of opposition leaders in Patna and shared the platform with Congress leader Rahul Gandhi. Reacting to the development, Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Priyanka Chaturvedi tweeted, "Principles be damned, BJP should be the last party in the country talking about ideological alliances. They are just political opportunists wanting power at any cost. With the latest development in Maharashtra, those MLAs who were corrupt & were jailed are now being sworn in as ministers!"

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With his nephew Ajit Pawar and some MLAs joining the Shiv Sena-BJP government in Maharashtra, NCP chief Sharad Pawar on Sunday said took a swipe at BJP saying this development was not a "googly" but a "robbery.



Pawar clarified it was not the decision of the NCP to align with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-Shiv Sena government and said action would be taken against those leaders who violated the party line.



He said the "credit" for this development goes to Prime Minister Narendra Modi because some leaders in NCP became restless days after the PM made a statement about corruption.



Pawar said he did not know what happened at a meeting of NCP leaders which was addressed by Ajit Pawar earlier in the day.



He claimed some people whose names are on the list (of BJP) have called him to inform that they were invited (to Mumbai) and their signatures were taken. "They said their stand as (MLAS) of NCP is different," he added.



As the political developments unfolded over the day, Pawar said it seems the Prime Minister has "exonerated" the NCP and all those against whom he had levelled allegations "I am happy today that he gave cabinet berths to some colleagues from NCP. It shows the allegations against corruption were not factual. I am thankful to the PM for this," Pawar said.



He said some leaders of NCP were nervous about the investigation by the Enforcement Directorate and named Ajit Pawar, Chhagan Bhujbal, Dilip Walse-Patil, Hasan Mushrif.



"There was restlessness due to ED cases. After the PM made that statement, the restlessness increased and they (BJP) got the benefit. But the real credit for this so-called success goes to the PM," he said tauntingly.



"Prima facie, this development is the result of the PM's allegations...the kind of action and the use of agencies. We need to see when these people (who took oath) get relief from the ED probe and what sort of understanding was there (between them). I am waiting to know that," the NCP chief said.



Ajit Pawar, who was Leader of the Opposition in the state Legislative Assembly, has taken oath as the deputy chief minister, while eight MLAs from his party, including some veteran leaders, were inducted as ministers.



Addressing a press conference here, the Pawar senior said, Ajit and other NCP MLAs joining the Shinde government was a robbery.



"...It is not googly, it is a robbery. It is not an easy thing. The allegations levelled by Prime Minister (Narendra Modi) against the party...Now (he) has done an important work of exonerating some of the leaders from those allegations," Pawar said. The googly reference was given by Pawar while speaking about whether NCP had decided to support BJP in forming a government in 2019.



Pawar had said he had bowled a "googly" to expose BJP's desperation for power after the 2019 polls.



He was replying to a query on whether the surprising move by nine NCP leaders was a game plan of the BJP or a googly that he talked about recently.



Queried on the action he was planning to take against NCP leaders, Pawar said the move by Ajit and other MLAs was not in sync with the party's policy.



"If someone has taken steps that are against the party's policies, then it is not good for the party. The key leaders in the party will sit and take decisions on this," he said.



Pawar said he was not upset with anybody but slammed NCP leaders Praful Patel and Sunil Tatkare for "abandoning" guidelines of the party president and taking a "wrong path".



He said that the picture related to the actual stand of NCP leaders, especially members of the legislature, will become clear in the next two to three days.



"The reason I am saying this is because some people whose names are on the list (those who are with BJP ) have called me and told me that they were invited and their signatures were taken but they said that their ( MLAS) stand is different," he said.



The veteran politician said he is receiving support from various corners of the country. "Before coming here, I received a call from Mamata Banerjee and Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge and that is why I am not worried about today's incident," he said.



Pawar said he would start reaching out to people to build the party afresh and visit the samadhi of Yashvantrao Chavan, the first chief minister of Maharashtra, in Karad.



"For us, one thing is important now that the state unit chief of the party and the party's national committee, those party colleagues who joined the government...it was not the party's stand," he said.



Putting up a brave front, Pawar said this situation is not new to him.



"After 1980, the party I was representing, had 58 MLAs. Barring six MLAs including me, all others left the party. With the remaining MLAs, I ventured out to reconstruct the party and in the elections, we won 69 seats. Barring two to three MLAs, all those who left us then faced defeat," Pawar recalled.



He said a similar picture will emerge now and it will be his "one-point program" to reconstruct the (party) with the support of the people.



"I have great faith in people and the youth. There was a similar situation ahead of the elections 4 years ago. That time, I reached out to people which increased our tally and we could form a joint government (MVA)," Pawar added.



Queried about Ajit staking a claim to NCP and its poll symbol, Pawar said he has nothing to say if someone is making any kind of claim.



"I have faith in people and they will decide. NCP's real strength is common people and party workers," Pawar said, adding there is a need to reconstruct the party.



Pawar claimed he came to know about his nephew's resignation as the Opposition leader through the media.



"The resignation is tendered before Speaker. He (Ajit) might have submitted it to Speaker," Pawar added.



He said only Chhagan Bhujbal told him before leaving that whatever is going on is not appropriate.



"Bhujbal told me he would apprise me of developments. But later, I learnt that he also took the oath as minister," Pawar added.
Senior BJP leader B S Yediyurappa on Sunday left for New Delhi after being summoned by the party's top leadership amidst a delay in electing the Leader of Opposition in the Karnataka Legislative Assembly.



Though the BJP stalwart, who is the BJP parliamentary board member, expressed ignorance over the reason for the call, party sources said he has been summoned to decide on the candidates for the posts of leader of the opposition as well as the party's state chief. BJP National president J P Nadda has summoned me to New Delhi. I don't know what the subject is, Yediyurappa told reporters here.



He said, I will go there, talk to him and if possible, I will return by tonight because a massive protest by thousands has been planned for day-after-tomorrow. So I will try to return by tonight or tomorrow morning. Asked whether he has been called to New Delhi to discuss the appointment of LoP, Yediyurappa said he was not aware.



After talking to him, I will get to know what is running in his mind. I don't have any clue why he has summoned me, the former CM said. To a query about the lobbying in the party for the two top posts, Yediyurappa said only the national leaders would take a call on such matters.



Many people demand many things Our national leaders will decide. Since he (Nadda) has called me, I will go there and talk to him, he added. Regarding the BJP's agitation on Tuesday, Yediyurappa said a massive protest will be organised against the ruling Congress for its "failure" to fulfill its election promises.



It has been decided to protest the failure of the state government. Thousands of people will participate. I will also take part in it, he added. With just one day left for the budget session of the assembly to start, the BJP is yet to finalise its leader of opposition.



There is a stiff contest in the saffron party in the state for these two prime posts. There are many frontrunners for the role of opposition leader, sources in the BJP said. Among them are former Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai, former ministers Araga Jnanendra, R Ashoka and Vijayapura MLA Basanagouda Patil Yatnal.



Recently, former Minister V Somanna had expressed his desire to become the BJP state president. The incumbent Nalin Kumar Kateel said although his term got over a year ago he was continuing in the post due to the assembly elections.



Now, the decision on his replacement would be made by the party high command, he said.According to party sources, the BJP legislative party meeting to elect their leader, which was scheduled for today has been cancelled.



Today there is no meeting of the BJP legislative party. We expect that the leader of opposition will be decided by tomorrow (Monday) afternoon, a senior BJP leader told PTI. Meanwhile, the Congress mocked the BJP's indecisiveness to finalise the leader of opposition.



In a tweet on Saturday, the party posted a picture of a chair with a caption which read, Advertisement  Urgently needed. A suitable person for the vacant post of leader of opposition of Karnataka assembly is required.
Opposition parties on Sunday lashed out at the BJP after NCP leader Ajit Pawar and eight others were inducted into the Eknath Shinde-led Maharashtra government, saying the ruling party's "washing machine" has resumed its operations and it can no longer talk about fighting corruption as it has joined hands with tainted leaders.



Ajit Pawar, who split the NCP and took oath as the deputy chief minister of Maharashtra, said his party decided to join the BJP-Shiv Sena government for the development of the country and praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership.



Reacting to the development, Congress general secretary Jairam Ramesh said, "Clearly the BJP's washing machine has resumed its operations. A number of new entrants into the BJP-led alliance in Maharashtra today had been facing serious corruption charges with ED, CBI and Income Tax authorities after them. Now they have all got a clean chit." The Congress will intensify its efforts to free Maharashtra from the clutches of the BJP, Ramesh asserted.



The Congress is part of the Maha Vikas Aghadi alliance that also comprises Shiv Sena (UBT) and Sharad Pawar-led NCP.



"The oath-taking ceremony in Maharashtra was part of Operation Lotus and it has no official support of NCP. Those who took oath, it is their personal decision and not that of the NCP," Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) spokesperson Mahesh Tapase said.



After inducting "corrupt men" as ministers, the BJP and Prime Minister Narendra Modi cannot talk about fighting corruption, senior TMC leader Babul Supriyo, who was earlier a minister in the Modi government and had switched from the BJP, said.



Calling the BJP "hypocrite", Supriyo, a minister in the Mamata Banerjee government in West Bengal, said tainted leaders under the scanner of ED for corruption have been put into a "washing machine" manufactured by the BJP to remove their stains and blemishes.



Shiv Sena (UBT) Rajya Sabha leader Priyanka Chaturvedi tweeted, "Principles be damned, BJP should be the last party in the country talking about ideological alliances. They are just political opportunists wanting power at any cost. With the latest development in Maharashtra, those MLAs who were corrupt and were jailed are now being sworn in as ministers!" Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav claimed that Maharashtra has emerged as a "bigger laboratory" for the BJP after Madhya Pradesh and the saffron party will do other "experiments" in the run-up to 2024 general elections to stay in power "BJP does this from time to time, first they did this in Madhya Pradesh, and then in Maharashtra, but people are watching this," Yadav told reporters in Lucknow.



AAP leader Atishi said that BJP has declared openly now that all the corrupt should come to its fold and get "cleaned off their sins in its washing machine".



Congress leader Rashid Alvi said, "The BJP and PM Modi have violated the Constitution. It (Ajit Pawar joining the Maharashtra government) is the biggest joke on democracy. Rajiv Gandhi brought anti-defection law while Atal Bihari Vajpayee increased the number of MLAs (to change the party) to 2/3rd, so this is an insult to Vajpayee as well." Former Maharashtra chief minister Ashok Chavan said the Shinde government was resorting to taking help from MLAs of other parties because of its own instability.



"After the opposition parties' meeting in Patna, they (BJP) are afraid, and that's why they want to break opposition parties," said DMK leader TKS Elangovan.



Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut claimed it was the beginning of the process of Eknath Shinde losing his chief minister's post.



RJD leader Mritunjay Tiwari also said the BJP has engineered the defection to save its government in Maharashtra.



PDP chief Mehbooba Mufti said no words are enough to condemn the manner in which the BJP has repeatedly undermined the popular mandate in Maharashtra.



"Not only is democracy being butchered but they are using the national anthem to provide cover for such disgraceful actions. On one hand, BJP is arresting political opponents on trumped-up corruption charges while they themselves are on an MLA purchasing spree. Hard-earned public money is being misused to quench BJP's thirst for power," she alleged.



In a swipe, Rajya Sabha MP Kapil Sibal tweeted, "I guess this is the mother of democracy that Modiji was talking about in his address to the US Congress!" "BJP doesn't believe in people's power, they only believe in politics of defections (jod-tod ki rajniti) and this time they will get a big shock," JD (U) president Rajiv Ranjan Singh alias Lalan Singh said.



BJP spokesperson R P Singh, however, said, "India is developing rapidly and this is happening only because of PM Modi. Ajit Pawar knows this very well and that's why he decided to join hands with us." Union Minister Ramdas Athawale said Ajit Pawar was unhappy in the Opposition for a long time.



"Ajit Pawar's decision to join the NDA is a 'dashing decision' and this is a huge setback for Sharad Pawar," he added.
The Nationalist Congress Party appointed Jitendra Awhad as Leader of Opposition in the Maharashtra Assembly after incumbent LoP Ajit Pawar joined the Eknath Shinde government as deputy chief minister on Sunday. The development comes amid a close aide of Pawar saying 36 out of 53 NCP MLAs have extended support to the new deputy CM and the numbers could go to 46 in a few days time. Awhad, MLA from Mumbra-Kalwa in neighbouring Thane district, said NCP state unit president Jayant Patil had appointed him chief whip of the party and LoP in the Assembly. "All the MLAs will have to abide my whip," he asserted in an apparent reference to defection and disqualification angles that are bound to come up in connection with Sunday's developments brought about by a vertical split in the NCP. Queried on Enforcement Directorate and Central Bureau of Investigation probes against some NCP leaders and its role in them switching sides, Awhad said, "I don't see any other reason behind these leaders deciding to join the state government. There was no need to do such a thing. Those leaders could have sat aside." "These leaders should not forget the party made them ministers in the past 25 years. Now, they are deserting their leader (83-year-old Sharad Pawar) in his twilight years," Awhad said. Lok Sabha MPs Sunil Tatkare and Amol Kolhe and Rajya Sabha member Praful Patel attended Sunday's swearing-in ceremony.

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Nationalist Congress Party's senior leader Ajit Pawar on Sunday met some party leaders and MLAs at his official residence in Mumbai. However, NCP president Sharad Pawar, who was in Pune, said he was unaware of the meet, but added that Ajit Pawar, as leader of opposition (LoP) in the Maharashtra Assembly, can call a meeting of legislators. The meeting assumes significance in the wake of Ajit Pawar recently saying he was not keen on continuing as the LoP and wanted to work in the party organisation. Senior NCP leader Chhagan Bhujbal and party's working president Supriya Sule were among the leaders present at the meeting held at Ajit Pawar's official residence 'Devgiri', while state party president Jayant Patil was not present. Some MLAs were also present in the meeting. The agenda of the meet was not known. Meanwhile, Sharad Pawar told reporters in Pune that he was unaware of the meeting in Mumbai. 'On July 6, I have called a meeting of senior leaders and decisions related to the party will be discussed,' he said. The NCP chief also said that as the LoP, Ajit Pawar can call a meeting of legislators.

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The European Space Agency (ESA) successfully launched the Euclid telescope from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida, USA, aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket, on July 1, at 17:12 CEST (8:30 pm IST) to probe the dark Universe.



The ESA's European Space Operations Centre (ESOC) in Darmstadt, Germany, confirmed the successful acquisition of the signal from Euclid after the telescope was launched and separated from the rocket. This confirmation happened at 17:57 CEST.







We have #AcquisitionOfSignal from #ESAEuclid!

The spacecraft has said its first words from space, captured by our New Norcia ground station in Western Australia.@ESA_Euclid, we hear you loud and clear.#AoSpic.twitter.com/kpME9ZTy9h



 ESA Operations (@esaoperations) July 1, 2023









1.5 million kilometres journey from earth to space



The successful launch marked the start of Euclid's epic voyage to space, travelling 1.5 million kilometres in the opposite direction of the Sun. Euclid's final destination is Lagrange point L2.









Safe travels, #ESAEuclid!



The #DarkUniverse  detective ventures into the unknown. pic.twitter.com/JvWBpIz4Sx



 ESA's Euclid mission (@ESA_Euclid) July 1, 2023













Euclid is expected to reach Lagrange point L2 in four weeks, after which it will undergo two months of testing, scientific instrument calibration, and preparation for routine observations. Following that, Euclid will begin its mission of surveying one-third of the sky.



6-year mission to demystify the dark Universe



The Euclid mission will spend six years studying the secrets of the dark cosmos, gathering data that will throw light on the evolution of galaxies, and the expansion of the universe.



The aim of the mission is to transmit data back to earth via ESAs Estrack network of ground stations across the globe, giving precious details on the early Universe and its evolution. This data will be studied by the Euclid Consortium  a group of more than 2000 scientists from more than 300 institutes across Europe, the US, Canada and Japan.



'Endeavour to answer compelling questions'



Following the successful launch of Euclid, ESA Director General Josef Aschbacher stated that this marks the beginning of an exciting scientific endeavour aimed at unravelling one of the world's greatest mysteries.



The successful launch of Euclid marks the beginning of a new scientific endeavour to help us answer one of the most compelling questions of modern science, said Aschbacher.



"...The quest to answer fundamental questions about our cosmos is what makes us human. And, often, it is what drives the progress of science and the development of powerful, far-reaching, new technologies. ESA is committed to expanding Europes ambitions and successes in space for future generations, he added.



The Euclid mission is the result of the passion and expertise of those who contributed to designing and building this sophisticated space telescope, the competence of our flight operations team, and the inquiring spirit of the science community, said Giuseppe Racca, ESAs Euclid Project Manager.



What the Mission hopes to investigate



According to NASA, dark energy accounts for around 68 percent of the cosmos, while dark matter accounts for 27 percent. Euclid's main goal is to learn more about the universe's mysterious 95 percent.



If all goes as planned, Euclid will create a great map of the large-scale structure of the Universe across space and time by observing billions of galaxies. The space mission will study 10 billion light years of cosmic history to understand why our universes expansion is accelerating.



It will also provide astrophysicists with the data they need to better comprehend two long-standing mysteries: dark matter and dark energy, as well as locate hints to the Universe's expansion.



According to the ESA, the mysterious 'dark' components are thought to be the cause of the Universe's accelerating expansion, but their nature and origin are unknown.



Euclid will help in solving these puzzles



- The structure and history of the cosmic web

- The nature of dark matter

- The expansion of the Universe changed over time

- The nature of dark energy

- Understanding of gravity



Also Read: Virgin Galactic achieves milestone with successful first commercial spaceflight



2000 scientists, 13 European countries



Euclid is a European mission built and maintained by the European Space Agency, with contributions from NASA's Roman Space Telescope. NASA is helping the mission by providing crucial hardware for the spacecraft's instruments, financing the science team, and creating a Euclid data processing centre in the United States.



The Euclid Consortium  consisting of more than 2000 scientists from 300 institutes in 13 European countries, the US, Canada and Japan  provided the scientific instruments and scientific data analysis.
TEHRAN, July 1 (Xinhua) -- An Iranian police officer was killed and two others injured on Saturday in an operation to arrest a suspect in the southeastern Iranian province of Kerman, the semi-official news agency Young Journalists Club reported.

The police officers were shot when they showed up with an arrest warrant at the door of a wanted person, said the report, citing Baft County's Governor Farhad Arasteh as saying.

The "criminal" opened fire on the officers while answering the door, he said, identifying the killed officer as Javad Karimi.

The two wounded officers were sent to the hospital, he added.

Abdol-Ali Ravanbakhsh, the deputy police chief for Kerman province, told the semi-official Tasnim news agency that the suspect had fled the scene, adding further investigations into the case were underway.

Baft County's prosecutor Enaiatollah Dehqani said the suspect had criminal records and used a Klashinkov rifle to kill the officer. 
The stunning Sobhita Dhulipala, who plays Kaveri, asks her super rich husband, Weve been together for so long and yet I dont know what it is you do.



That is the least of Anil Kapoors problems. We know, because we watched Tillotama Shomes Lipika Saikia Rao, Joy Senguptas Danish Khan recruit Aditya Roy Kapurs Shan Sengupta to find proof that Shelly Rungta (Anil Kapoor is one of the finest villains on screen) is an arms dealer. That happens in Season One that ended in a delicious cliffhanger and we ended up marking a reminder on the show.







Before the proof-finding mission actually takes place, a confession. Aditya Roy Kapur would usually show up on screen quite awkward with his long limbs (that would explain why he has been shown mostly at the mercy of Bacchus in his films  whether as the heartbroken lover in Aashiqui 2, 2013, or the generally alcoholic friend in Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani, 2013).



But in The Night Manager, he showed up as a sexy lad (many thanks to the female director of the show Priyanka Ghose for that sensational transformation). Never thought Id react to a shirtless lad jumping into a pool or strolling barefoot on the beach, buttons of his shirt undone. At first, I blamed it on the objectification of the male body in shows like Bridgerton (2020). But realised that there must be more, because Tom Hiddleston who plays the same role and has a legion of female fans, does not evince the same reaction when seen shirtless as Kapur does. So, he made for a rather interesting casting choice. And it worked because several people (mostly men) on social media complained how he just did not look Bengali enough.



In Season One, that wrapped up with Shelly and Shan shaking hands on a partnership, leaving Saikia wondering if Shan had flipped sides thanks to the unlimited money Rungta may have offered him.



The story now takes off with Shelly and his longtime co-conspirator Jaiveer Singh aka JV propping up Shan Sengupta as a new face to their new deal with Saudis. With his name changed to Abhimanyu Mathur, Shan is pretty good when covering up his horror at discovering how agricultural equipment is being used to disguise the purchase of arms. As someone unkindly said, it helps because the role does not require too much emoting from the lead characterI admit I was too distracted by Shan Senguptas eyelashes to care. The show is a hundredfold better than the vituperative-ridden, small-town India-based, political or drug-laced shows.







While Sobhita Dhulipalia is meant to be the seductive love interest of the villain, she is soon charmed by Shan as well. Plus Shan earns brownie points because hes so good with Shellys son Taha. That brings us to Tillotama Shome who is naturally a good actor, but here shes made to duckface when she speaks and that is a trifle disconcerting. But shes a fun watch (action sequences while visibly pregnant!). Joy Senguptas hesitant yet honest co-worker with Tillotama Shome is a great foil.







A character who put the dread of vicious powerful men in the pit of my stomach wasnt the evil Anil Kapoor, Shelly Rungta who says, You forgot to fear me. It was the unrelenting viciousness of Freddie Rahman who had no compunctions in throwing his very young bride out of the hotel window Well done Resh Lamba! You saw him act in CityLights (2014), Bell Bottom (2021) and more. But as Freddie Rahman, Resh Lamba instils the same fear in the audience that Shan Sengupta feels when he shows up in Dhaka again.







Of course, one can write pages about how brilliant Anil Kapoor is, having reinvented himself as a villain ever since shows and films started streaming on different platforms. This Hotstar special will give many heartburn to see that Anil Kapoors Shelly gets to kiss the beautiful Kaveri, but without any raised eyebrow order his henchman to get her to spill the beans. Before I cross the line with any more spoilers, let me make a wish for more content like this from Disney+ Hotstar and add Aditya Roy Kapur to my cheesecake-for-the-eyes list.







The Night Manager Season 2 released on Disney+ Hotstar on June 30
Small tea lights guide us through the side entrance leading up a flight of stairs to Napoli by Shatranj in Bandra. Inside, the warm glow from flickering candles continues to surround us from different nooks and corners of the Italian restaurant which re-opened after a gap of eight years. A fusion of modern aesthetics and cooking techniques with a nod to their glorious past, the classy restobar wants to appeal to the youth as well as attract the older generation who has seen the glory days of the popular Italian restaurant when it ran for almost 25 years.







A backlit tree installation in a corner catches our eye as do the carved red bricks that create an interesting play of texture. Upon entering we had been taken in by the rustic hanging light made with bulbs and twigs with the suspended metal rack bar display right behind it. A display of the wide range of premium wines on the left of the entrance and a lit display of select wines next to the metal and fluted glass door is another decor feature by interior designer Minnie Bhatt. The 54-cover dining area can accommodate another 25 in the lounge section which is on the other side of the bar. The minimalist setting puts one in the right mood for the culinary session to begin.



Before we get on to the food, mixologist Garry nudges us to try The Po, an umami and creamy concoction of rum infused with cardamom and coconut cream. It comes with a tiny pineapple sprinkled with spices, which he encourages us to bite into before sipping the drink. The easy and mild drink is an absolute winner on the palate and we are sold.











The Truffle Potato Flat Bread with thinly sliced potatoes and cheese sauce comes piping hot and crispy to the table and is devoured pretty quickly. The other two standout dishes of the meal include an Herb Crusted Chicken with boneless wings garnished with a spicy mayo and the Chicken Caesar Salad which Consultant Chef Sanjay Kotian has reimagined with rolled chicken slices full of microgreens and caesar cream and Parmesan crisps.







The restaurants menu is skewed now in favour of cleaner plating and cooking techniques such as sous vide to infuse more flavour into the food and create healthier dishes. There are also a few dishes which are Shatranj Classics from the original menu. The idea behind them, explains Gautam Mansinghani, business development consultant, is to appeal to the generation which used to frequent the restaurant before it shut down. Our Prawn Paprika  from the said section  with sauteed vegetables, herb rice and pan-seared prawns is slightly heavy on the paprika sauce and although it has the touch of nostalgia, we are not so impressed by the flavours.







We try one more drink, the slightly savoury Formaggio Pepe with gin and fat washed parmesan and olive before getting on to the desserts. The Churros Spirale with a doughnut-shaped churro, chocolate ice cream and chocolate soil with its different textures works better for us than the Caramel Apple which leans towards the sweeter side with its caramel poached apple, walnut soil and hazelnut ice cream.
As onlookers clapped and danced, a mayor of a small southern Mexico town entered into holy matrimony with a female reptile in a traditional rite to bring good fortune to his people.



Victor Hugo Sosa, mayor of San Pedro Huamelula, a town of Indigenous Chontal people in the Tehuantepec isthmus of Mexico, took as his betrothed a reptile named Alicia Adriana, re-enacting an ancestral ritual.



The reptile was a caiman, an alligator-like marsh dweller endemic to Mexico and Central America. Sosa swore to be true to what local lore calls "the princess girl."



"I accept responsibility because we love each other. That is what is important. You can't have a marriage without love. I yield to marriage with the princess girl," Sosa said during the ritual.



Marriage between a man and a female caiman has happened in Mexico for 230 years to commemorate the day when two Indigenous groups came to peace - with a marriage.



Tradition has it that frictions were overcome when a Chontal king, embodied these days by the mayor, married a princess girl of the Huave Indigenous group, represented by the female alligator. The Huave live along coastal Oaxaca state.



The wedding allowed the sides to "link with what is the emblem of Mother Earth, asking the all-powerful for rain, the germination of the seed, all those things that are peace and harmony for the Chontal man," explains Jaime Zarate, chronicler of San Pedro Huamelula.



Before the wedding ceremony, the reptile is taken house to house so that inhabitants can take her in their arms and dance. The alligator wears a green skirt, a colorful hand-embroidered tunic and a headdress of ribbons and sequins.



The creature's snout is bound shut to avoid any pre-marital mishaps. Later, she is put in a white bride's costume and taken to town hall for the blessed event.



As part of the ritual, Joel Vasquez, a local fisherman, tosses his net and intones the town's hopes that the marriage may bring "good fishing, so that there is prosperity, equilibrium and ways to live in peace."



After the wedding, the mayor danced with his bride to the sounds of traditional music.



"We are happy because we celebrate the union of two cultures. People are content," Sosa told AFP.



As the dance winded down, the king plants a kiss on the snout of the "princess girl."
When it comes to planning a honeymoon, finding a destination that is inexpensive and romantic can be difficult. For this reason, we have curated a guide to the most romantic places that do not cost a fortune. These economical destinations provide couples with the opportunity to bond in charming settings. However, it is worth noting that costs vary based on the time of year. Therefore, to ensure that your honeymoon is economical, it is best to book in advance and plan your romantic getaway during the non-peak season, when the prices and crowds are typically lower.



Here are the 7 best Indian and international destinations for an affordable honeymoon:



1. Sri Lanka



The island nation of Sri Lanka is our top pick for an affordable honeymoon destination, and for good reason. In Sri Lanka, beautiful beaches, rainforests, cultural sites, tea plantations, and verdant wildlife parks come together to create the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable honeymoon.



While Colombo is a great place to start, make your way to the smaller towns of Ahangama, Balapitiya, Galle, Hikkadua, and Haputale for a unique experience immersed in nature and local culture. These towns are home to several quaint boutique hotels that are economical. Our favourites are Sundara by Mosvold, Galle Fort Hotel, Thotalagala and Taru Villas.







2. Andaman and Nicobar Islands



In recent years, the connectivity to the Andaman and Nicobar Islands has drastically improved, with numerous airlines and cruises offering low-cost tickets to the destination.



Honeymooners can enjoy the natural beauty of the scenic islands. They can participate in several outdoor activities, such as snorkelling, scuba diving, kayaking, and underwater diving, at inexpensive prices. Couples can also go island hopping at low costs. Several travel agents and tour operators sell reasonably priced sightseeing packages.



Additionally, these Indian islands are home to a number of affordable boutique hotels. Some options to consider are Sea Shell, Silver Sand Sentinel, Symphony Samudra, and Silver Beach Resort.







3. Dubai



A short flight away from India, Dubai is a popular destination for honeymooners. The city offers a plethora of activities for all budgets. From spending the day at the beach or in the desert to indulging in delectable food or partying the night away, Dubai has something for everyone.



Couples can bond by engaging in cultural activities at Desert Safari Dubai, exploring the gold market, meeting aquatic life at the Dubai Aquarium, or dining at the citys highly rated restaurants.



Furthermore, while Dubai is known for its luxurious hotels, it is home to a number of well-priced boutique hotels with excellent amenities. XVA Art Hotel, Arabian Courtyard Hotel & Spa, and Rove Downtown Dubai are great options.







4. Prague, Czechia



Compared to other European destinations, Prague offers more economical accommodation and dining options for honeymooners. Prague can be explored on foot or by its efficient public transport system.



The citys cobblestone streets and breathtaking landmarks such as the Prague Castle, Charles Bridge, Vltava River, St Vitus Cathedral, the Astronomical Clock, and Old Town Square provide a fairytale setting for romance. Many of these attractions are free or have nominal entrance fees.



Moreover, the city has a thriving culinary scene with a wide variety of inexpensive restaurants and cafes. Check out Sisters Bistro, Cafe Louvre, Lehka Hlava, and Las Adelitas.







5. Thailand



Thailands affordability, along with its awe-inspiring landscapes, rich cultural heritage and warm hospitality, make it a good choice for honeymooners.



In addition to Bangkok, we suggest adding the stunning beach towns of Phuket, Krabi, Koh Samui, and Phi Phi Islands to the honeymoon itinerary. These destinations are home to tranquil beaches with turquoise waters, offering couples an excellent venue to spend quality time together.



Additionally, Thailand has some of the best affordable yet luxurious hotels in the world. Our top picks are Amari Watergate Bangkok, Charm Resort Phuket and Nora Buri Resort & Spa.



While street food in Thailand is cheap and delicious, the restaurants are also well-priced.







6. Bahrain



An island nation in the Arabian Gulf, Bahrain offers well-priced activities and stay options, making it an ideal affordable honeymoon destination.

Couples can unwind at Al Jazair Beach, celebrated for its pristine beauty, or take a boat ride to Jarada Island. They can also go pearl diving in the waters of Jarada Beach, creating a cherished memory.



For a more adventure-filled honeymoon, couples can visit the renowned F1 Bahrain International circuit or take a romantic walk amidst the lively atmosphere of Manama Souq, a vibrant market brimming with stalls, selling fragrant spices and local handicrafts.



For culture buffs, the Bahrain National Museum, the Bahrain Fort, and the ancient Dilmun Burial Mounds, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, are must-visits.







7. Mammoth Lakes, California



While honeymooning in Californian cities such as Los Angeles and San Francisco can become expensive, the lesser-known town of Mammoth Lakes is much more affordable.



Nestled amidst the Sierra Nevada Mountains, this underrated destination is home to a surreal natural landscape. Think crystal-clear lakes, gushing waterfalls, majestic mountain ranges, and lush green forests. Couples can spend the day hiking, biking, fishing, skiing, or unwinding in a beautiful natural setting. Furthermore, honeymooners can take day trips to the nearby Yosemite National Park, Devils Postpile and Rainbow Falls National Monument, Mono Lake, Bodie State Historic Park, Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest, Mt Whitney, and the Mammoth Lakes Basin.
EgyptAir introduces free 96-hour transit visa: EgyptAir, the national carrier of Egypt, has announced that travellers can obtain a free transit visa to enter Egypt and stay for a duration starting from 8 hours to 96 hours. This visa can be obtained upon arrival at Cairo International Airport, provided that the passenger goes to the EgyptAir transit office at the airport to fill out the data form upon which they can obtain the visa free of charge.



Transit passengers can take advantage of tour programs offered by its tourist tours subsidiary Karnak to explore attractions in the country.



Recently, Egypt introduced a new five-year multiple-entry visa for foreigners, available for a fee of $700.



It may be recalled that in March this year, Egypt had relaxed tourist visa requirements for visitors from India, China, Iran, Turkey, Morocco, Algeria and Israel.



Tired of GoT tourists, San Juan introduces online ticketing system: San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, a tiny town in Basque Country (an autonomous community in northern Spain known as Dragonstone to Game of Thrones fans) is so tired of Game of Thrones enthusiasts that it has launched an online ticketing system to curb tourism and deter tourists from ringing the church bell.



San Juan has seen an exponential increase in arrival of tourists that is not only causing discontent amongst locals but is also disturbing the breeding patterns of marine life due to the constant ringing of church bells by GoT fans.



Not more than 6 alcoholic drinks a day in Balearic Islands (Spain): The all-inclusive meal options in Magalluf, El Arenal, Playa de Palma in Mallorca and Sant Antoni in Ibiza, will serve a maximum of six alcoholic drinks per person per day and these drinks will be provided only during lunch and dinner ( 3 each). The Balearic government has also put a stop to pub crawls, the sale of alcohol in shops between 9.30pm and 8am, and advertising party boats in some areas.



Spanish party capitals Ibiza and Majorca have introduced heavy penalty for excessive and illegal partying. Clubbers attending illegal parties on these two islands can be fined up to 29,000 while those participating in events/parties inside protected natural areas can be fined up to 28,000. The penalty for home partying is much higher - up to 350,000.



No strolley bags in Croatian town: As part of a campaign to reduce noise and encourage responsible tourism, the city of Dubrovnik (Croatia) has announced that visitors to the Old Town of Dubrovnik will no longer be able to roll their luggage on the stone-paved streets.



Dubronvik is a favourite of Games of Thrones (GoT) fans because the city has been a prominent GoT filming location since Season 2. After all, Dubrovnik is Kings Landing, the capital of the Seven Kingdoms.



According to the mayor of the city, residents of the Old Town complained about the noise of the suitcases rolling at night. So, for this summer season, visitors must carry their bags and avoid rolling the wheels on the stone-paved streets.



This November onwards, there will be a logistics centre within the Cilipi (Dubrovnik airport) from where all the luggage of Dubrovnik visitors will be transported from Cilipi directly to the guests addresses. Of course, the visitors will have to pay for this service.



Ryanair bans alcohol as cabin luggage: Ryanair, the low-cost Irish carrier, has banned passengers from carrying duty-free alcohol as part of their cabin luggage. In all airlines, onboard passengers are not allowed to open and consume alcohol bought at duty-free stores but can carry it as cabin luggage, but Ryanair has gone a step forward and issued a diktat that any purchased alcohol will have to be stowed in the hold. If you arrive at the departure gate with the alcohol only in a carrier bag, you could be made to put it in the bin.



Eurostar ends direct trains from London to Disneyland Paris: The convenience of hopping into a Eurostar in London straight to Disneyland Paris is no longer available until the end of 2023.



Starting next year, Eurostars train that connects Amsterdam to London will also be suspended for a period of over 11 months. According to Eurostar, the service disruption is due to renovation work at Amsterdams railway station that will start in June 2024 and will last until May 2025 and during this period there will be no direct cross-channel rail services to Amsterdam.
KUNMING, July 2 (Xinhua) -- Police in southwest China's Yunnan Province have arrested 93 individuals suspected of involvement in an online gambling case, the public security bureau of Zhaotong City announced on Sunday.

Police said that more than 900 million yuan (about 124.6 million U.S. dollars) was involved in the case. A total of seven online gambling apps have been shut down.

In 2021, police in Zhaotong found that an individual surnamed Wang, along with others, had organized gambling activities on internet platforms with huge capital flows. The police then established a task force to investigate the case.

They found an internet technology company had developed gambling apps and designated regional agents at varying levels in a pyramid structure. After 16 months of investigation, the police raided nine gang premises inside or outside of the province, seizing some 80 mobile phones and 27 computers. 
July 02, 2023

Ukraine Open Thread 2023-157

Only for news & views directly related to the Ukraine conflict.

The current open thread for other issues here.

Please stick to the topic. Contribute facts. Do not attack other commentators.

Posted by b on July 2, 2023 at 13:50 UTC | Permalink

Comments

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Giant panda Xin Xin eats bamboo at the Chapultepec Zoo in Mexico City, Mexico, July 1, 2023. The giant panda Xin Xin celebrated its 33rd birthday on Saturday. (Xinhua/Xin Yuewei)

Staff members share cake with tourists to celebrate giant panda Xin Xin's birthday at the Chapultepec Zoo in Mexico City, Mexico, July 1, 2023. The giant panda Xin Xin celebrated its 33rd birthday on Saturday. (Xinhua/Xin Yuewei)

Giant panda Xin Xin is ready to enjoy a meal at the Chapultepec Zoo in Mexico City, Mexico, July 1, 2023. The giant panda Xin Xin celebrated its 33rd birthday on Saturday. (Xinhua/Xin Yuewei)

Giant panda Xin Xin eats bamboo at the Chapultepec Zoo in Mexico City, Mexico, July 1, 2023. The giant panda Xin Xin celebrated its 33rd birthday on Saturday. (Xinhua/Xin Yuewei)

Giant panda Xin Xin plays at the Chapultepec Zoo in Mexico City, Mexico, July 1, 2023. The giant panda Xin Xin celebrated its 33rd birthday on Saturday. (Xinhua/Xin Yuewei)

Giant panda Xin Xin is pictured at the Chapultepec Zoo in Mexico City, Mexico, July 1, 2023. The giant panda Xin Xin celebrated its 33rd birthday on Saturday. (Xinhua/Xin Yuewei)
The international shipping industry is responsible for 3 percent of the world's carbon emissions.
A communications tower at IT&E headquarters in Harmon is shown May 22, 2023. Guams three major telecom providers reported that 90% of cell sites, if not more, are back up and running.
Ethiopian experts and policymakers attending a high-level meeting on Friday hailed the China-proposed Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) as a mutually beneficial cooperation platform advancing socioeconomic development in Ethiopia and beyond.

Themed "China-Ethiopia Building Belt and Road," the roundtable meeting brought together senior Ethiopian government officials, Chinese diplomats in Ethiopia, officials from the Ethiopia-Djibouti Standard Gauge Railway Share Company (EDR), heads of different think tanks, as well as media leaders, among others.





Produced by Xinhua Global Service
SANTA FE, N.M. (AP)  Federal land managers have called off plans to spray pesticides near the Rio Chama in northern New Mexico as part of an effort to eradicate invasive grasshoppers.

The decision announced Thursday by the Bureau of Land Management followed an outcry by environmentalists and others who worried that dispersing 670 gallons (2,536 liters) of carbaryl  a potent neurotoxin  would also kill bees, monarch butterflies and other insects vital to the areas ecosystem.

Although the U.S. Agriculture Department conducted an environmental assessment earlier this year, the Bureau of Land Management said additional analysis and outreach was needed.

Due to the time needed to carry out additional analysis, the project cannot be achieved this season and will no longer take place. We will continue to work on this important issue in partnership with the U.S. Department of Agricultures Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, said Pamela Mathis, the BLMs Taos field manager.

The plan called for spraying the pesticide across 39 square miles (101 square kilometers) in Rio Arriba County. The U.S. Agriculture Department had concluded that grasshoppers had proliferated to the level deemed a severe outbreak and would not only consume grasses essential to grazing cattle but also would pose a threat to the ecosystem.

Recent surveys in the area tallied 35 grasshoppers per square yard, or more than quadruple the eight per yard considered an outbreak and a threat to rangeland ecosystems, the Santa Fe New Mexican reported.

The Xerces Society and other environmental groups argued that the pesticide could inflict widespread collateral damage for the ecosystem. Some critics also noted that the chemical has been found to be carcinogenic to humans.

Aimee Code, Xerces pesticide program director, acknowledged that the agencies initial action was centered on helping ranchers.

Now weve taken a step back and said lets figure out whats the right solution for the ranchers, for the recreationalists, for the tribes and the pueblos, for the many people that use this area and the wildlife that are there. Code said.

Federal officials had planned to set up no-spray buffers 500 feet (152 meters) from water bodies and a quarter-mile from riparian areas such as the Chama, Nutrias and Cebolla rivers. But critics were concerned that the pesticide would drift into other locations.

Terry Sloan, director of Albuquerque-based Southwest Native Cultures, said he feared that any contamination of the Rio Chama could flow downstream to the Rio Grande and ultimately farms and tribal lands along the two waterways.

Mother Earth and her inhabitants win, Sloan said in a statement.  More work ahead, with public and tribal consultation, as we figure out a natural and or Indigenous way to address the grasshopper problem.
South Korea's main opposition Democratic Party (DP) held a rally in central Seoul on Saturday to oppose Japan's nuclear-contaminated water discharge plan and urge the government to make clear its opposition to Japan's plan.





Produced by Xinhua Global Service
Mexican anti-cartel vigilante leader buried and with him, an armed citizens movement View Photo

LA RUANA, Mexico (AP)  One of the last leaders of Mexicos anti-gang citizens movement was buried Saturday alongside two of his faithful followers, and any hope of reviving armed civilian resistance to drug cartels probably died with them.

Self defense vigilante leader Hipolito Mora had long since ceased to pose an armed threat to the cartel that dominates western Mexicos Michoacan state, as was clear from the overwhelming, deadly, multipoint ambush in which he and three followers were slain Thursday.

While some angry relatives talked of reviving the 2013-2014 armed farmers movement that kicked out one cartel  only to see it replaced by others  many doubted that heroic, tragic chapter could ever be repeated.

I think its not a question of reviving the past, said the Rev. Gilberto Vergara, one of the priests who officiated the funeral Mass for Mora and his followers Calixto Alvarez and Roberto Naranjo. The third follower was buried elsewhere.

The circumstances have changed, theyre different, and we saw how everything ended.

Mora himself acknowledged that the 2013 movement, in which farmers and ranchers banded together to resist constant threats and extortion from the Knights Templar cartel, wound up infiltrated by members of other drug gangs.

The cartel now dominating the state, alternately called the Viagras or the United Cartels, is worse than the ones who were here before, Moras brother, Guadalupe Mora Chavez, said.

If the government and (Michoacan Gov. Alfredo Ramirez) Bedolla dont do something, there are possibilities the people will rise up in arms again, the brother said.

But most at Moras wake were too afraid of cartel retaliation even to have their names appear in print.

He looked out for his town, for his people, and that is something none of us is going to do, his sister, Olivia Mora, said in a tearful address in front of his coffin.

We all think first about our own families, she said. None of us are going to have the courage to do what he did.

I hope that something remains, another of Moras weeping female relatives said. I hope his voice hasnt been silenced.

Mora always spoke out against the cartels extortion of local farmers and lime growers, ,even after his hundreds of followers had been reduced to a handful.

The female relative, who asked that her name not be used, said the extortion has grown so bad some growers are giving up their businesses, and locals sometimes are forced to pay double the price for basic goods.

The power of the drug cartels has only grown over the last decade. The Rev. Gregorio Lopez, a priest who was not present at the funeral, said President Andres Manuel Lopez Obradors policy of not confronting the cartels has allowed them to grow.

The hugs not bullets policy has been the perfect fertilizer for growing drug cartels across the country, he said.

The overwhelming power of the cartels was visible in the bullet holes in the walls where Mora and his bodyguards died. The Michoacan state prosecutors office said unidentified gunmen cut off his SUV and his bodyguards pickup truck on a street in La Ruana, Moras hometown, then riddled Moras vehicle with bullets and then set it on fire.

In a forensic inspection Friday, authorities marked out where bullets hit Moras vehicle from three sides. Residents shared video of the attack that suggested cartel gunmen used a machine gun and a sniper rifle to destroy Moras vehicle.

Residents of La Ruana, located in the torrid agricultural belt of western Michoacan state, did turn out by the hundreds Saturday for the funeral.

At the local cemetery, Mora and his two followers were laid to rest to the tune of the Joan Sebastian corrido ballad The General. The lyrics go: I have been a general a long time, and even though I am wounded, I never forget about my troops, and they havent buried me yet.

A knot of state police stood outside the cemetery, providing security that was never provided to Mora. Despite the big tearful farewell, it is becoming more difficult to even speak out against the cartels domination, which is mainly what Mora did in his final years along with running his lime orchard.

The cartels seem intent on squelching even non-violent resistance.

The narcos and the drug cartels are always going to try to get rid of anything that gets in their way, said Vergara, the priest.

The time for armed self-defense movements is past, he said.

Guns dont help us, civilians shouldnt carry guns, Vergara said. I think it is up to the government to do their duty.

That appears unlikely, given the governments current policy of tolerating the homegrown Viagras cartel, while fighting off an offensive by the Jalisco cartel to enter the state.

They have to fight all the cartels, said Guadalupe Mora.

By MARK STEVENSON

Associated Press
Australia is the first country to let patients with depression or PTSD be prescribed psychedelics

Australia is the first country to let patients with depression or PTSD be prescribed psychedelics View Photo

SYDNEY (AP)  Australia is now the first country to allow psychiatrists to prescribe certain psychedelic substances to patients with depression or post-traumatic stress disorder.

Beginning Saturday, Australian physicians can prescribe doses of MDMA, also known as ecstasy, for PTSD. Psilocybin, the psychoactive ingredient in psychedelic mushrooms, can be given to people who have hard-to-treat depression. The country put the two drugs on the list of approved medicines by the Therapeutic Goods Administration.

Scientists in Australia were surprised by the move, which was announced in February but took effect July 1. One scientist said it puts Australia at the forefront of research in this field.

Chris Langmead, deputy director of the Neuromedicines Discovery Centre at the Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, said there have been very few advancements on treatment of persistent mental health issues in the last 50 years.

The growing cultural acceptance has led two U.S. states to approve measures for their use: Oregon was the first to legalize the adult use of psilocybin, and Colorados voters decriminalized psilocybin in 2022. Days ago, President Joe Bidens youngest brother said in a radio interview that the president has been very open-minded in conversations the two have had about the benefits of psychedelics as a form of medical treatment.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration designated psilocybin as a breakthrough therapy in 2018, a label thats designed to speed the development and review of drugs to treat a serious condition. Psychedelics researchers have benefited from federal grants, including Johns Hopkins, and the FDA released draft guidance late last month for researchers designing clinical trials testing psychedelic drugs as potential treatments for a variety of medical conditions.

Still, the American Psychiatric Association has not endorsed the use of psychedelics in treatment, noting the FDA has yet to offer a final determination.

And medical experts in the U.S. and elsewhere, Australia included, have cautioned that more research is needed on the drugs efficacy and the extent of the risks of psychedelics, which can cause hallucinations.

There are concerns that evidence remains inadequate and moving to clinical service is premature; that incompetent or poorly equipped clinicians could flood the space; that treatment will be unaffordable for most; that formal oversight of training, treatment, and patient outcomes will be minimal or ill-informed, said Dr. Paul Liknaitzky, head of Monash Universitys Clinical Psychedelic Lab.

Plus, the drugs will be expensive in Australia  about $10,000 (roughly $6,600 U.S. dollars) per patient for treatment.

Litnaitzky said the opportunity for Australians to access the drugs for specific conditions is unique.

Theres excitement about drug policy progress, he said,  about the prospect of being able to offer patients more suitable and tailored treatment without the constraints imposed by clinical trials and rigid protocols.
NYC school officials say yeshivas run by Hasidic community fail to teach students in core subjects View Photo

NEW YORK (AP)  Eighteen private Jewish schools run by New York Citys politically powerful Hasidic community deprived thousands of students the required secular education in English, math, science and social studies that they need to function successfully outside their religious enclaves, according to findings from an eight-year investigation by New York City school officials.

The investigation  which critics say was long delayed because of politics  concluded that many of the religious schools, or yeshivas, were not providing substantially equivalent instruction in core subjects as do public schools  as mandated by state law.

In a letter to at least one school, NYC schools Chancellor David Banks expressed concern that students were not being instructed in key subjects sufficient to prepare them for their futures.

A review of more than two dozen yeshivas, which receive hundreds of millions in public funding, determined that only seven of those schools were in compliance with state rules.

The probe was sparked by complaints by a former student who said he was not provided the schooling necessary to navigate the outside world. He would later form a group called Young Advocates for Fair Education, which got the citys Department of Education to launch an investigation in 2015.

We hope that the completion of this investigation compels the city and Mayor Eric Adams to act on behalf of thousands of students who are being deprived of their right to a sound basic education, said the groups executive director, Beatrice Weber.

The investigation was conducted in fits and starts, as Hasidic leaders used their political muscle to push back against any intrusions into their community, which is concentrated in the Brooklyn neighborhood of Williamsburg.

Hasidic Jews comprise one movement of Orthodox Judaism. And while the roughly 200,000 Hasidic Jews in New York City represent just a fraction of the citys Jewish population, they have amassed considerable influence within the citys power structure because of the communitys penchant for voting as a bloc.

Yeshivas, many of them small, play a central role in preserving Hasidic traditions and religious orthodoxy. In some schools, instruction is conducted primarily in Yiddish  in violation of state law mandating that instruction be done in English. The investigation found that sometimes English was not taught at all. The typical school day was spent on teaching the Torah and Talmud. In some cases, yeshiva administrators refused requests to allow city school officials to do follow-up visits.

A spokesperson for Parents for Educational and Religious Liberty in Schools, which has defended the Hasidic schools under fire, could not be reached on Saturday, a day of Sabbath for many Jews.

Richard Bamberger, a representative of the group, told the New York Daily News on Friday that parents send their children to yeshivas because of the moral and religious approach taken by the schools.

They will continue to do so, regardless of how many government lawyers try to insist that yeshiva education is best measured by checklists they devise rather than the lives yeshiva graduates lead, he told the New York Daily News.

City school officials said the bulk of schools it visited were cooperative, while a small number of schools were less so.

For any school found to not be substantially equivalent, NYC schools spokesperson Nathaniel Styer said in a statement, the DOE stands ready to support the school to becoming substantially equivalent.

The schools that failed to provide the necessary instruction must draft a remediation plan and have as long as two years to put it in place.

Our goal is to educate children, not punish adults, Styer said.

The completion of the investigation comes amid a push to strengthen oversight of the states 1,800 private and religious schools, following a New York Times investigation published last fall that exposed how students at Hasidic schools were denied basic education in crucial subjects.

The new state rules were pared back by a judge earlier this year after a lawsuit was brought by ultra-Orthodox Jewish schools. The judge ruled that parents cannot be required to pull their children from private schools that fail to meet state-designated standards.

Weber said she worries about how the remediation plans will be implemented.

Were very concerned about what this will look like, what this will mean and how much guidance these schools will get, Weber said in an interview Saturday. We cannot just let years go by with the schools claiming theyre trying to improve. There needs to be real deadlines.

It is unclear how many students attend the schools that were reviewed, but they certainly number in the thousands.

Whats more, there are scores of other Hasidic yeshivas that were not part of the investigation, Weber said, so there could be other schools that are noncompliant but have yet to be subjects of complaint.

Weber acknowledged that many of these yeshivas are indeed complying with state standards and are doing exceptional jobs in giving their students the education that will help serve them later in life.

By BOBBY CAINA CALVAN

Associated Press
North Carolina amusement park closes ride after discovering crack in support beam View Photo

CHARLOTTE, N.C. (AP)  A North Carolina amusement park closed one of its roller coasters Friday after a crack was found on a support beam.

According to news reports, Carowinds shut down Fury 325. The parks website advertises the ride as the tallest, fastest, longest giga coaster in North America that crosses into both North Carolina and South Carolina.

Video of the ride showed the beam bending, the top of it visibly detached, as cars with passengers whirled by.

Safety is our top priority and we appreciate the patience and understanding of our valued guests during this process, Carowinds officials said in a statement. As part of our comprehensive safety protocols, all rides, including Fury 325, undergo daily inspections to ensure their proper functioning and structural integrity.

Fury 325 first opened to the public in 2015 and cost approximately $30 million to build, according to news reports.

Carowinds did not say how long repairing the ride would take. The rest of the park will remain open.
Trumps South Carolina rally attracted a massive crowd in heavily Republican area View Photo

PICKENS, S.C. (AP)  Former President Donald Trump marked a return to the large-scale rallies of his previous presidential campaigns, speaking to a massive crowd gathered in the streets of a small South Carolina city on a blazing summer weekend.

Theres nowhere else Id rather be to kick off the Fourth of July weekend than right here on Main Street, with thousands of hardworking South Carolina patriots who believe in God, family and country, Trump said Saturday to a roaring crowd in downtown Pickens as temperatures climbed into the 90s.

Randal J. Beach, the police chief in the conservative Upstate community of about 3,400 residents, told The Associated Press on Sunday that his estimates of the crowd were somewhere between 50-55,000.

The heavily Republican area is a popular one for GOP hopefuls as they aim to attract support for South Carolinas first-in-the-South presidential primary. In recent months, other candidates including Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, former Vice President Mike Pence and biotech entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy have all held events in the Upstate, as well as the two South Carolinians in the race: former Gov. Nikki Haley and Sen. Tim Scott.

But none drew an audience like Trump, whose appearance effectively shuttered Pickens quintessential Southern downtown.

Contrasted with his 2016 and 2020 campaigns, which drew thousands to rallies in states across the country, Trumps 2024 effort has been markedly different. Earlier this year, instead of addressing voters in a gymnasium or airplane hangar, Trump held his first South Carolina campaign event inside the Statehouse in Columbia, rolling out his state leadership team at an invitation-only gathering in an ornate lobby between the House and Senate chambers.

In other states, the former president has focused his efforts on smaller events, including a series of speeches before state party organizations, as he works to bolster his standing with delegates and local officials.

This was only Trumps second large rally of the 2024 campaign. In March, he rallied in Waco, Texas, disparaging the prosecutors then investigating him on hush-money charges  on which he was later indicted  and predicting his vindication. A planned outdoor rally in Iowa in May was canceled due to tornado warnings.

The rallies are also expensive to put on, although Trump has continued to bring in millions in fundraising, after both the New York indictment and also federal charges related to his retention of classified documents after leaving the White House. Last month, senior Trump aide Chris LaCivita told the conservative Ruthless podcast that the rallies are half a million bucks a pop.

Trumps campaign has also leaned in on unannounced stops at restaurants  such as at a celebrated Philadelphia cheesesteak restaurant Friday or Versailles, a famous Cuban eatery in Miami  in a bid to showcase his strong appeal among supporters despite the multiple legal challenges.

In a broad GOP field that has continued to grow, Trumps campaign has pointed to polls showing him with a considerable lead over his rivals, despite a campaign schedule that is far less robust than many of his rivals. He has also given frequent media interviews and appeared at many of the multi-candidate events of the primary season so far, including this past weeks Moms for Liberty gathering in Philadelphia.

Still, the chance to see the former president in person drew thousands from across the Southeast for Saturdays rally, with attendees beginning to line up the night before, and coming from as far as Florida. Greg Pressley and his wife, Robin, said they drove more than three hours from their home in eastern Tennessee to see the candidate theyve supported since his first run in 2016.

Donald Trumps the best president in history, Greg Pressley said. I love his policies. I love the man. Im here to support him getting back to where he needs to be, to begin with.

Shelley Fox of Spartanburg, who said she has supported Trump since he entered the 2016 race, said she didnt feel it necessary to even think about any other candidates for next years election.

Id write him in, she said, when asked what she would do if forced to consider another hopeful. No question  Id write him in.

___

Meg Kinnard can be reached at http://twitter.com/MegKinnardAP

By MEG KINNARD

Associated Press
SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico (AP)  A federal control board that oversees Puerto Ricos finances on Friday approved a $12.7 billion general fund budget that contains increases for teachers, judicial employees and the U.S. territorys public university.

It is the largest budget approved in the islands history.

The bulk of the funds, $2.6 billion, will go toward education, followed by $1.2 billion for public safety, $600 million for the University of Puerto Rico and $555 million for the islands health department.

The approval comes after last-minute debates threatened to derail the proposed budget, which is slightly bigger than last years $12.4 billion budget.

The new budget was previously approved by Puerto Ricos legislature and governor on Thursday and goes into effect on July 1.

Puerto Rico government officials claimed it is the islands third balanced budget, but a spokesman for the board noted that the fiscal year 2022 budget hasnt been audited.

The government has continued to pass laws during recent fiscal years that reduce revenues or increases expenditures without identifying ways to pay for that incremental cost, the board said.

In addition, the board said it is still working to help the island meet the requirements to gain access to, and the trust, of credit markets.

If a fourth balanced budget is approved next year, that would mark the end of the federal control board, which was created by U.S. Congress. But the board said it is premature to forecast when its role would end given ongoing work with Puerto Ricos government.
WEST HOLLYWOOD, Calif. (AP)  The swanky, celebrity-studded city of West Hollywood officially has the highest minimum wage of any U.S. city after pay zoomed to $19.08 an hour Saturday.

Workers in West Hollywood welcomed the increase amid rising rent, gas and food prices, although employers grumbled about growing labor costs that they say could drive them out of business.

Lucian Tudor, chief executive of upscale restaurant La Boheme, told the Los Angeles Times he has cut staff from 120 to 80 to trim costs. The citys minimum wage climbed $1 in January to $17.50 an hour for businesses with at least 50 employees.

These pay increases are about superficiality and about opportunistic politicians who are just trying to make a name for themselves, Tudor, who would prefer a minimum wage that accounts for tips like what New York City has, told the news outlet.

West Hollywood, tucked between the cities of Beverly Hills and Los Angeles, has about 35,000 people.

The minimum wage also went up in other cities on Saturday.

San Franciscos minimum wage increased more than a $1 to $18.07 an hour. Los Angeles is now $16.78 an hour, and the minimum wage in Washington, D.C. is $17, up from $16.10 an hour.

For workers in Los Angeles hotels with 60 rooms or more, the minimum pay increased to $19.73 an hour on Saturday, up from $18.86. Hotel workers in Santa Monica also saw their pay climb to $19.73.

Seattle had the highest minimum wage of any U.S. city in January when its hourly rate increased to $18.69.

Norberto Ruiz, who works in a liquor store in West Hollywood, told the Los Angeles Times that a wage increase last summer allowed his family to purchase a $150 air conditioner.

I dont think people understand how much an extra dollar or two can change peoples lives, Ruiz told the news outlet.
Single-engine airplane crashes into Lake Tahoe, 2 on board rescued by boaters

PLACERVILLE, Calif. (AP)  A small, single-engine airplane crashed into Lake Tahoe early Saturday, and the two people on board were rescued by boaters, authorities said.

The El Dorado County Sheriffs Office said in a statement they received calls for service shortly after 10 a.m. Saturday.

One of the rescued people sustained a serious head injury, according to the statement.

The single-engine Piper PA-28 crashed into the southern part of Lake Tahoe, the Federal Aviation Administration said in an email. The administration will investigate along with the National Transportation Safety Board.

The sheriffs office did not immediately respond to a request for information.

The plane left the nearby Truckee Tahoe Airport around 9:15 a.m., according to flight tracking platform FlightAware. It was not immediately known where the plane was headed or what caused the crash.
2nd bus carrying asylum seekers from Texas arrives in Los Angeles View Photo

LOS ANGELES (AP)  A bus carrying migrants from a Texas border city arrived in downtown Los Angeles on Saturday for the second time in less than three weeks.

The office of Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass was not formally notified but became aware on Friday of the bus dispatched from Brownsville, Texas, to L.A. Union Station, Bass spokesperson Zach Seidl said in a statement.

The City of Los Angeles believes in treating everyone with respect and dignity and will do so, he said.

The bus arrived around 12:40 p.m., and the 41 asylum-seekers on board were welcomed by a collective of faith and immigrant rights groups. Eleven children were on the bus, according to a statement by the Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights.

The asylum seekers came from Cuba, Belize, Colombia, El Salvador, Guatemala, Mexico, Nicaragua and Venezuela. They received water, food, clothing and initial legal immigration assistance at St. Anthonys Croatian Parish Center and church.

Jorge-Mario Cabrera, a spokesperson for the coalition, said the group was less stressed and less chaotic than the previous time. He said most were picked up by family in the area and appeared to have had sandwiches and water, unlike the first time.

Los Angeles was not the final destination for six people who needed to fly to Las Vegas, Seattle, San Francisco and Oakland, he said.

The city received a bus carrying 42 migrants from Texas on June 14. Many were from Latin American countries, including Honduras and Venezuela, and they were not provided with water or food.

Bass said at the time that the city would not be swayed by petty politicians playing with human lives.

Texas Gov. Greg Abbott said he sent the bus to Los Angeles because California had declared itself a sanctuary for immigrants, extending protections to people living in the country illegally.

It was unclear if Abbott sent the latest bus. A phone message to his office was not immediately returned.

Earlier in June, the state of Florida picked up three dozen migrants in Texas and sent them by private jet to Californias capital, catching shelters and aid workers in Sacramento by surprise.
People watch a dancing show in the Victoria Park of Hong Kong, south China on July 1, 2023. (Li Gang/Xinhua)

"I have been to many places in the mainland and the traditional Chinese culture is really beautiful. Young people in Hong Kong should go to the mainland and experience the charm of different Chinese dynasties," said Chui Wai-sze, a Hong Kong college student.

HONG KONG, July 2 (Xinhua) -- In the Tang culture experience zone at Hong Kong's Victoria Park, women dressed elegantly in Tang Dynasty (618-907) costumes were dancing cheerfully on Saturday.

Dressing as a young girl in Tang Dynasty costume, Miss Lee, a Hong Kong resident, took a selfie with her mobile phone against the backdrop of red lanterns under the sun.

Saturday marked the 26th anniversary of Hong Kong's return to the motherland. Lee and her friends went to the Victoria Park to celebrate this special day.

"The decorations here match the Tang clothes so well," Lee said.

Hong Kong resident Wan Miu-ling, 67, waited two and a half hours in the scorching heat and was finally seated in the makeup section.

A visitor puts on makeup at the exhibition area of Shaanxi Province in the Victoria Park of Hong Kong, south China on June 30, 2023. (Xinhua/Chen Duo)

"I like the costumes of various Chinese dynasties, and the Tang costumes were the most gorgeous," Wan said she was satisfied with the makeup and hairstyle designed by the makeup artist.

Wan said she loves traditional Chinese culture. "After I retired, I began to study Yi Jing, or Book of Changes, and the Analects of Confucius. I keep studying because I am Chinese," she said.

Such an immersive cultural experience was greatly loved by Hong Kong people. Many local people flocked to the park to try on Han-style clothing, the traditional dress of the Han Chinese people.

Wang Ning, a representative of the Han-style clothing experience zone in the park, told Xinhua that there were 120 sets of different styles of costumes for people to choose from.

"It seems that Chinese traditional costumes are very popular among Hong Kong people," Wang said.

In another corner, children of different ages sat quietly at the table to do handicrafts.

A girl makes a moon-shaped fan at the exhibition area of Shaanxi Province in the Victoria Park of Hong Kong, south China on June 30, 2023. (Wang Qian/Xinhua)

A sixth-grade primary school student surnamed Lee was making a moon-shaped fan, which was popular in the Tang Dynasty. Lee decorated the fan carefully and wrote the word "peace" in the blank space.

"I heard there was a traditional culture experience zone here, so I dressed in my Han-style outfit to join the party," said Chui Wai-sze, a local college student.

"I have been to many places in the mainland and the traditional Chinese culture is really beautiful. Young people in Hong Kong should go to the mainland and experience the charm of different Chinese dynasties," Chui said. 
From a sunset cruise and New England Taco Festival to a salsa and hustle dance class party, Connecticut has a series of Latin events coming up that appeal to various interests.

Here are five in-state events you can add to your July calendar.

Salsa and hustle dance class inStamford

STAMFORD  La Vista Bistro, located at 891 Cove Road, is hosting a hustle and Latin dance party on Wednesday, July 5, from 7-10 p.m. Maria Fioras Dance Studio organizes the event and runs its Wednesday Hustle and Latin mixer at different locations. The monthly Hustle and Latin mixer is a great way to make new friends, mingle and dance in a low-pressure atmosphere. No partner is required for the dance class, which will begin at 7:40 p.m. and end at 8:40 p.m. Purchasing a four-pack of tickets will give attendees a $5 off discount per ticket; the four-pack includes entry to the class and party and costs $110. Tickets are $20 for the party and $35 for the dance class and party. Guests can purchase tickets on the Eventbrite website.

Latincolors Magazine to host networking breakfast in Stamford

STAMFORD  Latincolors Magazine is hosting a networking breakfast on Wednesday, July 12, from 7-8:15 a.m. at KeyBank, 2386 Summer St. Sponsors, clients, and anyone interested is invited to the networking event. Latincolors, a bilingual magazine, circulated throughout Fairfield County and Westchester County, New York. The event is free and open to the public. To reserve your spot, visit the Eventbrite website.

ConnecticutScience Centerrecognizes LatinoConservation Week

HARTFORD  The Connecticut Science Center and UConn Extension Urban Forestry Program are collaborating to provide a learning opportunity for teens and their families to learn about job paths concerning conservation and environmental science in recognition of Latino Conservation Week on Saturday, July 15, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Connecticut Science Center, 250 Columbus Blvd. The bilingual sessions will provide guests with a significant experience for every age group, and other local organizations will be at the event to give guests with activities and information. Admission is free, but guests can reserve a free ticket on the Connecticut Science Center website.

Greater Bridgeport Latino Network hosts Sunset Cruise

BRIDGEPORT  The Greater Bridgeport Latino Network is hosting its 19th Annual Sunset Cruise on Thursday, July 20, at Port Jefferson Ferry, 1 Ferry Road. Check-in, networking, and appetizers from El Coquito, a Bridgeport family-run Puerto Rican restaurant, are from 5 -6:30 p.m. The ferry departs at 7 p.m. and returns at 9:30 p.m. This years theme is Tropical Night, and the event organizers encourage guests to consider it when choosing their evening outfits. DJ Vic will play music for the evening. Early admission was $60 from Saturday, June 24 through Friday, June 30, and general admission is $70 from Saturday, July 1 through Thursday, July 20. Guests can purchase tickets on the Eventbrite website.

Third annual New England Taco Festival

GUILFORD  The 3rd annual New England Taco Festival will occur on Saturday, July 29, from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Sunday, July 30, from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. at Guilford Fairgrounds, 111 Lovers Lane. Every year, families gather to enjoy an array of taco trucks, donkey rides, mariachi bands, lucha libre, tequila, margaritas and more. The event will also include craft vendors, carnival games, rides, free mechanical bull rides and bouncy houses. Animals on a leash are allowed entry. Admission for children under the age of 12 is free. General admission is $15 per person per day. Tickets are available on the Eventbrite website.

If you know of any local event that interests and is relevant to our Latino communities, please share it with us via email: RJLatinos@record-journal.com.
UN report: Cocaine smuggling and production increase amid growing demand for illicit substances

reveals that

cocaine usage and production are at an all-time high

A new report from the United Nations

This is according to the World Drug Report 2023, which found that the number of cocaine users in 2021, the most recent year for which data is available, reached 22 million, compared to 21 million the previous year. The report highlights the growing demand for illicit substances of cocaine.

Furthermore, the report notes that cultivation of coca bushes, from which the drug is produced, has soared from approximately 234,200 hectares in 2020 to an alarming 315,000 hectares in 2021.

"The world is currently experiencing a prolonged surge in both supply and demand for cocaine, which is now being felt across the globe and is likely to spur the development of new markets beyond the traditional confines," stated the report.

Despite the high production, law enforcement agencies have seized significant quantities of cocaine. In 2021 alone, authorities confiscated 2,026 tons of the drug. As a result, the total amount of cocaine available to consumers remains slightly lower than levels observed in the mid-2000s. Nevertheless, the report underscores the steady increase in production since 2015.

While the Americas and Western and Central Europe continue to dominate the market, the report reveals that cocaine usage is rapidly expanding in Africa, Asia and Southeastern Europe. The global trade of drugs has evolved, with criminal actors diversifying their operations to create more efficient supply chains.

Drug traffickers becoming more innovative as demand increases

Traffickers are now using innovative smuggling techniques to transport cocaine base without detection. The cocaine base is dissolved into other materials, such as plastic and charcoal, making it more difficult for traditional screening methods to detect the contraband.

In Europe, traffickers have established "super labs" to extract the cocaine base from these concealed materials and convert it into powder. Gang chemists have developed techniques to effectively "lock" the cocaine into carrier materials. (Related: Cocaine and other illegal drugs are so common that 13% of us have traces of it on our fingers even if we don't use it.)

Laurent Laniel, a principal scientific analyst at the European Monitoring Center for Drugs and Drug Addiction, previously reported that the chemicals used to bind the cocaine base with carrier products make it nearly impossible to retrieve the drug without specific knowledge of the precise unlocking process.

Similarly, Pieter "Posh Pete" Tritton, an early European pioneer of this trafficking method, noted that he mixed cocaine base with liquid rubber, "impregnating" it into the ground sheets of tents that were smuggled from South America to the United Kingdom. The cocaine was then extracted from the materials in a super lab in Britain.

Tritton and his associates used a latex solution impregnated with a cocaine base instead of cocaine hydrochloride. This method minimized losses during the extraction process and proved more cost-effective. With cocaine hydrochloride, the extraction process resulted in losing up to 30 percent of the drug and decreased potency. In contrast, using cocaine as a base reduced losses to around 10-15 percent and maintained its potency.

According to Tritton, this method offered advantages for traffickers. It increased the chances of successfully smuggling the drug without getting caught, making it extremely challenging for authorities to detect and prove the presence of cocaine. Since the drug was not in its final form, it created difficulties for law enforcement to identify and apprehend individuals knowingly carrying it.

Each trafficker customized their recipe for impregnating the cocaine into carrier materials, making it even more challenging for law enforcement to recover the drug. Tritton highlighted that this posed a significant challenge for the police and resulted in higher quality and lower-cost cocaine on the streets, benefiting end-users.

Learn more about the trafficking of illicit drugs at DrugCartels.news.

Watch this video of Bill Clinton's sex slave recounting his cocaine smuggling scandal.

This video is from the Red Voice Media channel on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

Arizona state trooper seizes over $3M worth of fentanyl pills and cocaine during traffic stop less than 30 miles from the border.

Coca-Cola operates secret COCAINE manufacturing facility in New Jersey.

Cocaine-producing giant Colombia seeking to DECRIMINALIZE the drug.

Cocaine, Spices, and Hormones Now Being Found in Drinking Water.

Sources include:

Vice.com 1

Reuters.com

Vice.com 2

Brighteon.com
BOMBSHELL: Dr. Peter Hotez deliberately misleads public in huge COVID ORIGINS COVER-UP involving Fauci-funded, CCP military lab research

As it turns out, the entire pandemic was not just planned, but planned out very well, over years and years, in an insidious collaborative way with the Chinese Military medical complex, with deep roots to vaccine researchers Dr. Fauci and Dr. Hotez. This is worth careful consideration, as the future "health" of the world hangs in the balance. Mountains of evidence reveal how Fauci and Hotez conspired for decades to facilitate illegal transfers of information, technology, and intellectual property that was "detrimental to U.S. institutions," according to FBI reports.

The revelations also show suspicions that the Chinese military were constructing a COVID vaccine BEFORE they even notified the WHO about the initial outbreak. How could that be? It's no wonder they did not want truth media calling it the "plandemic." In fact, the world's first patent application for a COVID-19 vaccine was filed back in February of 2020 by one Dr. Zhou Yusen, a PLA officer (through the PLA's Academy of Military Sciences) and the lead inventor. This is a smoking gun that the Fauci Flu (SARS-CoV-2) is in fact a military-made bioweapon used for depopulation, communist domination, and the creation and (coerced and forced) administration of the deadliest "vaccine" ever created.

Gain of function research funded by Fauci and coordinated by Hotez was the fulcrum that enabled cross-species transmission of Coronavirus to humans

Recently uncovered research, as revealed in a US Senate report, points to development of a Covid jab as early as November of 2019. Dial it back to at least five different publications, detailing funding by Fraudulent Fauci and his evil cohort Dr. Hotez, who's grant list raises concerns about connections to Chinese Military scientists involved in creating and possibly releasing Covid-19 in China. This documents scientific research that was literally published about biotechnology processes to support Chinese military end uses. So will the next gain-of-function outbreak, followed up by another deadly, vascular-clotting vaccine series, wipe out most Americans, so that the Chinese communists, including their military, can invade our Republic and completely take over? Sure does sound like that's the plan, and with all this evidence piled up, the only conspiracy theorists left are those who don't follow the science and the money.

Dr. Hotez discusses coronavirus vaccines with Chinese military scientists and how to use gain-of-function to arm coronavirus for attacking humans

Through subcontracted funding, Dr. Hotez collaborated with Chinese military scientists to help them develop a complex bioweapon by inserting furin cleavage sites into coronaviruses. It was all a two-pronged insidious plan, in other words, to infect the world with a "novel" virus, then inject everyone with toxic, sticky spike proteins that cause horrific health consequences that even doctors can't seem to link to the vaccines. This is the highest form of treason and terrorism on the planet, and should be investigated as such.

The Chinese military scientists are documented in their connections to Dr. Anthony Fauci and Dr. Peter Hotez, who are scrambling every day now to cover up their plots and plans of the scamdemic. Dr. Anthony Faucis National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) awarded research grants to Chinese Military scientists back in November of 2020 for over $1 million entitled RBD [receptor binding domain] RECOMBINANT PROTEIN-BASED SARS VACCINE FOR BIODEFENSE." Defense? How about Attack?

Plus, it all ties right back to the grand ole' U.S. of A., because the grants include collaboration with the University of Texas Medical Branch Galveston, home of the Department of Defense-funded Center for Biodefense and Emerging Infectious Diseases, which houses a BL-4 high containment facility for viral research. This was all shared with the U.S. Armys Walter Reed Army Institute of Research and most likely also with the Chinese military.

All in all, from 1997 to 2016, there's a trail of over $17 million in research grants that tie Fauci's NIAID to the Communist Chinese government, where principal investigators and scientists received support to create and weaponize a virus and its vaccine that would help install communist rule in nearly every nation (via health dictatorship, fixed elections, and incapacitated economies).

Based on all of this funding, collaboration, gain-of-function research, and directly related vaccine "technology," the COVID-19 virus (SARS-CoV-2) pandemic is a well-planned, thoroughly-documented military-made, bioweapon-based WAR on humanity. All roads lead to Fauci and Hotez as the "masterminds" who helped the insidious US vaccine industrial complex (VIC) coordinate with the communist Chinese military for the past two decades.

The best way to find out when criminals are guilty of repeat offenses is just to, as they say, follow the money. Dr. Hotez has left a long trail of documented subcontracted funding for the People's Liberation Army and the Wuhan Institute of Virology, where they purposely inserted furin cleavage sites into coronaviruses to create the bioweapon we all know as COVID-19. Now hundreds of millions of people are dead or incapacitated around the world from the supposed antidotal "vaccines" that turned out to be bioweapons themselves.

Hotez the pharma hack even admitted it all in a February 2021 interview, where he discussed collaboration with Chinese military scientists, stating, "About ten years ago, we got approached by a group at the New York Blood Center led by Shibo Jiang and Lanying Du that had a pretty good idea for coronavirus vaccines." Oh really?

Bottom line: Dr. Peter Hotez and Dr. Anthony Fauci are entangled in a complex web of collaboration, funding, and developing bioweapons responsible for the deaths of hundreds of millions of humans around the world. Had they not planned, engaged, and funded all of this, the pandemic would NEVER have happened, and the Vaccine Holocaust would not be happening right now.

Bookmark Vaccines.news to your favorite independent websites for updates on the Fauci-funded Vaccine Holocaust that's sweeping the nation and the world as you read this.

Sources for this article include:

Pandemic.news

Kanekoa.news

ZeroHedge.com

NaturalNews.com

CCnationalsecurity.org
Electronic message from Hunter Biden demanded payment from Chinese businessman: I am sitting here with my father

Republicans probing Biden family corruption have found the ultimate smoking gun linking Joe Biden to his son Hunter's corrupt influence-peddling business deals, though the president has regularly denied having any knowledge of them.

An IRS whistleblower provided members of the House Oversight Committee with a WhatsApp message from Hunter to Chinese businessman Henry Zhao that directly implications Joe Biden as being in the same room at the same time with his son as he demanded payment.

Breitbart News reported this week:

Henry Zhao was influential in forming Harvest Fund Management. He was elected the chairman of the board in November 2017. Under his leadership, Harvest has become one of Chinas leading asset management companies serving more than 100 million investors, Harvest Advisors website reads.

Zhao was also the chairman and Chinese Communist Party general secretary at the firm, according to Breitbart News senior contributor and Government Accountability Institute president Peter Schweizer.

Emails reveal Hunter Biden played an important role in brokering the joint venture between the Chinese firm Bohai Harvest and Burnham, a firm owned by Devon Archer, Hunter Bidens business partner. Archer is reportedly working with GOP House investigators probing the Biden family business ventures.

The July 30, 2017, WhatsApp message reads: I am sitting here with my father and we would like to understand why the commitment made has not been fulfilled. Tell the director that I would like to resolve this now before it gets out of hand, and now means tonight."

It adds: "And, Z, if I get a call or text from anyone involved in this other than you, Zhang, or the chairman, I will make certain that between the man sitting next to me and every person he knows and my ability to forever hold a grudge that you will regret not following my direction. I am sitting here waiting for the call with my father."

A July 30th, 2017, WhatsApp message from Hunter Biden to Henry Zhao: "I am sitting here with my father and we would like to understand why the commitment made has not been fulfilled pic.twitter.com/yVukTL9emb  Miranda Devine (@mirandadevine) June 22, 2023

One could almost make the case that the Bidens knew Joe was going to be installed as president in the very near future; otherwise, what influence would he still have to sell or peddle?

Meanwhile, the FBIs supposed investigation into Hunter Biden wrongly labeled verified evidence as disinformation, agency whistleblowers claimed last summer.

Agents investigating Joe Bidens son opened an assessment which was used by an FBI headquarters team to discredit negative Hunter Biden information as disinformation improperly and caused investigative activity to cease, according to Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-IA). Grassley revealed the claim after his office received a significant number of protected communications from highly credible whistleblowers about the investigation. The Republican claimed one of the communications shows verified and verifiable derogatory information on Hunter Biden was falsely labeled as disinformation.

According to the disclosures, FBI supervisory intelligence agent Brian Auten initiated the assessment in August 2020, which the agency subsequently utilized. Among the whistleblowers' claims is that the FBI's assistant special agent in charge of the Washington field office, Timothy Thibault, halted an investigation into Hunter Biden in October 2020, even though certain details were already known to be accurate at that time.

A whistleblower also said Thibault ordered closed an avenue of additional derogatory Hunter Biden reporting, according to Grassley, even though all of the reporting was either verified or verifiable via criminal search warrants. The senator said Thibault ordered the matter closed without providing a valid reason as required and that FBI officials subsequently attempted to improperly mark the matter in FBI systems so that it could not be opened in the future, according to the disclosures.

The Bidens are nothing short of a mafia family.

Sources include:

NaturalNews.com

Breitbart.com
Zimbabwean businesses welcome the export of more local products to China as the first shipment of Zimbabwean citrus is set to depart for the Asian country in July.





Produced by Xinhua Global Service
Military experts insist Ukraines counteroffensive is not failing, just off to a slow start  tell that to the Marines

Military experts insist that Ukraine's much-anticipated offensive is not failing, claiming that it is "way too early" to be drawing conclusions about the success or failure of Kyiv's renewed push to retake territories.

Kyiv has launched one of its largest military operations since the start of the war. But now, even Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is acknowledging that this offensive is going "slower than expected."

"It's just getting underway," said retired Lt. Gen. Ben Hodges, who formerly served as the commanding general of United States Army Europe, in an interview with Business Insider. "Most of Ukraine's army is not even in the fight yet."

Official sources claim that Ukraine is still in the initial phase of its most recent ground operations, which are focused on collecting information and confirming intelligence that offers insight into the enemy's objectives.

"The offensive has started, but not the main attack," claimed retired Australian Army Maj. Gen. Mick Ryan. He added that the Ukrainians have taken a broad front approach to the conflict, scanning the front lines and trying to find penetrable places to attempt to break through the Russian defenses.

"When they find it, they'll do it," he said. "They only have to create one significant breakthrough to cause all kinds of problems for the Russians."

Ukraine working hard to counter Moscow's messaging about "failed" counteroffensive

Ukrainian and pro-Ukrainian Western analysts are actively attempting to counter Russian messaging about how Zelensky's so-called counteroffensive has been a total failure, pointing to Moscow's own recent bout of mutinous infighting with President Vladimir Putin's former confidante Yevgeny Prigozhin's Wagner Group, which actually was short-lived and ended with a deal with Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko that would see Prigozhin go into exile.

Furthermore, even U.S. sources note that the Wagner rebellion didn't change much on the 600-mile front in southern and eastern Ukraine.

"As of now, it's not going to have any significant effect on the battlefield. The battlefield remains what it was," said retired U.S. Marine Corps Col. Steve Ganyard, adding that the counter offensive "continues to be a very long, hard, difficult and bloody fight."

Since Kyiv started the counteroffensive earlier this month, the country's efforts to break through Russia's dug-in trenches have been hobbled by dangerous minefields along the miles-long front and air attacks from above, culminating in a brutal slog of an offensive thus far.

"Everything is mined, everywhere," said Lt. Ashot Arutiunian, the commander of a drone unit, who watched through a drone's video link as one mine exploded under a U.S.-supplied Bradley armored vehicle and halted the advance of an armored column.

At least 17 of 113 such tanks that the U.S. gave Ukraine earlier this year have been damaged or destroyed, a senior U.S. military official said. (Related: Nearly 15% of Bradley armored vehicles the US sent to Ukraine now DESTROYED over just 3 days.)

The same official added that Ukrainian forces in some locations along the front line are pausing to reassess which breaching and clearing tactics and techniques are working best as the minefields become bigger and more ubiquitous, and the Russian troops have proven adept at replenishing some minefields cleared by Western-supplied equipment.

"They dug in, they mined, they are ready," said Yevhen, a private with a paramilitary police unit who insisted on being identified only by his first name and rank. "It is difficult, but there is no other option."

Follow UkraineWitness.com for updates on the recent developments in Russia's special military operation in Ukraine.

Watch the video below discussing Kyiv's counteroffensive, which is now on operational pause.

This video is from Red Voice Media on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

Peace talks over Russia-Ukraine conflict could be held as soon as July, German media reports.

Ukraine launches biggest attack in months as much-hyped counteroffensive begins.

ACTS OF TERROR: Ukraine's intel chief admits his government has MURDERED "quite a few" Russian civilians.

RFK Jr. on Ukraine: Russia is fighting an EXISTENTIAL war and can't afford to lose.

Right Now with Ann Vandersteel: Russia-Ukraine War is part of global "Game of Thrones"  Brighteon.TV.

Sources include:

BusinessInsider.com

Edition.CNN.com

ABCNews.go.com

IndianExpress.com

Brighteon.com
A new study has revealed that human activities have caused a surge in the numbers of wild pigs and macaque monkeys in Southeast Asia, which could have serious implications for the environment and public health.

Human activities create ideal conditions for wildlife pests

The study, published in the journal Nature Communications, was led by researchers from The University of Queensland, who analysed species population data from across the region, some of it collected with a network of cameras, as per Phys.org.

They found that human activities, such as logging and establishing palm oil farms, have created ideal breeding conditions for wild pigs and macaque monkeys, which are taking over Southeast Asia's disturbed forests.

The researchers reported that wild boar and macaque numbers were 400,% higher in forests near the plantations than in untouched environments.

They explained that these animals take full advantage of the farmland, raiding crops and thriving on calorie-rich foods

They also pointed out that these wildlife pests are not evenly distributed across the region, but tend to concentrate in areas where human disturbance is high and natural predators are low.

For example, they found that macaques were more abundant in Indonesia and Malaysia than in Thailand and Vietnam, while wild pigs were more abundant in Thailand and Vietnam than in Indonesia and Malaysia.

Also Read: 'Monkey See, Monkey Do' a Real Phenomenon for Monkeys and Whales

Wildlife pests pose serious zoonotic disease risks

The researchers also highlighted the significant human health risks in the rising pig and macaque populations, as per ScienceDaily.

They said that mammals in human-modified ecosystems often host high pathogen loads and pose serious zoonotic disease risks, as shown by the wildlife origins of the COVID-19 pandemic.

They noted that both pigs and macaques are recognized as carriers of diseases that can be transmitted to people and they're the most common species in a region considered to be the global zoonotic disease hotspot.

One of the collaborators, a professor from the University of East Anglia (UK), said that densely settled rural areas in Southeast Asia may be a source of future human epidemics.

He cited examples of viral, bacterial, rickettsial, helminth, and protozoan diseases that have been associated with rodents, pigs, and macaques in Southeast Asia.

Some of these diseases include leptospirosis, Japanese encephalitis, Nipah virus infection, plague, scrub typhus, murine typhus, salmonellosis, brucellosis, tuberculosis, toxoplasmosis, and trichinellosis.

The researchers also warned that the population explosions could have negative impacts on native flora and fauna in the affected regions.

A PhD candidate from the University of East Anglia and Southern University of Science and Technology (China) said that both pigs and macaques trigger negative cascading impacts in these pristine ecosystems.

He said that they kill the seeds and seedlings of native plants and eat bird and reptile eggs, and further said that the Malaysian pigs alone were found to reduce rainforest tree regeneration by 62%.

He also mentioned that these animals can compete with or displace other native wildlife species, such as small carnivores, primates, rodents, and birds.

Effective management strategies are needed

The researchers called for more effective management of wildlife pests in Southeast Asia, such as culling, fencing, sterilization, or relocation.

They also urged for more research on the ecological and epidemiological consequences of wildlife population explosions in human-modified landscapes.

These experts suggested that an integrated approach that combines ecological knowledge, socio-economic factors, cultural preferences, and stakeholder participation is needed to develop sustainable solutions.

The importance of preserving natural habitats and restoring degraded forests to enhance biodiversity and ecosystem services has also been greatly emphasized.

They concluded that addressing the problem of wildlife pests is not only crucial for protecting crops and livestock but also for safeguarding human health and conserving nature.

Related article: Australian Wild Pig Drinks 18 Beers, Gets in Fight with Cow
In Florida and Texas, there have been a number of reported cases of malaria. Although there is no need to panic, it might be a rising issue, according to experts.

Mosquito-Transmitting Malaria

Residents' worries about recent occurrences of malaria in Florida and Texas have spurred state and federal authorities to issue public alerts.

However, for a number of reasons, experts and public health officials advise restraint.

First off, there are very few cases, which reduces the total risk. Second, there are low-tech, straightforward precautions that people can take for their own safety.

Last but not least, there is virtually no possibility that a single mosquito would spread malaria.

Nevertheless, researchers agree that climate change is changing the environment and causing mosquito-borne diseases like West Nile virus and dengue fever to expand northward in the United States.

These insects can now survive in areas that were previously unsuitable for them due to rising temperatures and lengthened mosquito seasons.

The recent emergence of malaria cases could act as a warning sign for potential disease outbreaks in the future.

Philip Stoddard, a Florida International University professor of biological sciences, emphasizes the potential for the spread of novel, unidentified mosquito-borne viruses from West Africa.

Additionally, Cameron County, Texas, has reported one more instance of local transmission.

Travel-Related Malaria

Around 1,800 cases of malaria were associated with travel in the United States in 2018, which means that the cases were discovered in people who had been abroad, and seven people passed away as a result of the condition.

Although the CDC reported that all five of the malaria patients in Florida and Texas have gotten treatment and are making progress, the recent increase in cases is exceptional given that all of the patients contracted the parasite from Anopheles mosquitoes inside the country.

According to Derrick Mathias, a Florida Medical Entomology Laboratory assistant professor at the University of Florida, malaria is almost always transmitted by mosquito vectors, despite the fact that it can technically be spread by blood transfusion, organ transplantation, contaminated needles, or syringes.

There are 14 species of Anopheles mosquitoes in Florida, according to Florida Health.

All of which have the capacity to transmit malaria, and Mathias claimed that the recent emergence of cases is not particularly surprising.

However, according to Mathias, there must be three essential components for transmission to occur: the host, the capable vector, and the parasite.

Malaria via local transmission, which claimed the lives of over 2,700 people in the United States a hundred years ago in 1923, has since been effectively eliminated in 1951.

Once the parasite is eliminated, the other two can just live, and the mosquito becomes a pest and does not transmit disease.

Climate Change and a Growing Problem

An important recurrence of malaria is not always assured by a recent cluster of cases.

Mathias emphasized that a number of random occurrences are necessary for malaria transmission; any one of these can be targeted to stop the disease's progress.

In Florida and Texas, Anopheles mosquitoes-which transmit malaria-don't specialize in biting people. They bite different animals, lowering the possibility of transmission.

Additionally, the parasite takes one to two weeks to incubate in the infected mosquito, during which time it may face a variety of dangers.

These random occurrences are somewhat more likely as a result of climate change. Warmer temperatures hasten the maturation process, possibly facilitating the spread of malaria.

Experts predicted that as global temperatures rise, more months of the year may experience mosquito-borne illnesses like malaria.

Also Read: Flower Foraging Dooms Mosquitoes as Nectar Spreads Honey Bee Virus to Bloodsuckers

Early Detection

Americans don't need to worry about malaria right now. The illness might die down on its own because it doesn't pass from person to person like COVID-19 or the flu.

Since there is no animal reservoir for the parasite in Florida, malaria is unlikely to become endemic in the area. However, prevention of transmission should be the main priority. In order to stop the progression of severe diseases, early detection and treatment are essential.

Every occurrence is taken seriously by the Florida Department of Health, which also urges people to take precautions, including emptying standing water, donning protective gear, and applying insect repellent. Tower fans, air conditioners, and window screens can all help keep mosquitoes away.

There is no current requirement for malaria-prevention drugs or vaccinations.

In the evening, Floridians should exercise additional caution, especially those who live in low-income regions without air conditioning.

Over the Fourth of July weekend, it is especially important to stick to these suggestions, STAT News reported.

Related Article: Squirrel Pox Cases Transmitted by Mosquitoes Increase in Maine
A rare, critically endangered Przewalski foal was just born at a California zoo following the arrival of a cloned colt, which experts are thrilled about.

Przewalski Foal in a California Zoo

At a zoo in California, a rare horse was born that was thought to be extinct. According to the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance, the Przewalski's horse foal was born to "mother Nikki and father Ziggy" on June 11.

According to the group, the unnamed colt is continuing to gain his footing while remaining close to his mother, Nikki.

The organization says that "the tiny prancer" is blending in well with the dozen or so horses who make up the Przewalski's horse herd.

But when a second foal entered the herd in April, it was the second Przewalski's horse that scientists had successfully cloned.

According to the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance at the time, it was anticipated that his presence would aid in restoring genetic variety to the critically endangered P-horse population.

The Przewalski's horse was thought to be extinct in the wild up until 1996, according to the organization as resported by The Sacramento Bee.

Rare Species: Przewalski's Horse

According to the San Diego organization, zoos all over the world have mostly been responsible for the species' survival for the past 40 years.

As per the Smithsonian's National Zoo & Conservation Biology Institute, the horses formerly roamed throughout Europe and Asia.

The horse moved east to Asia and eventually went extinct in the wild due to competition with humans and cattle as well as environmental changes.

The species is now restricted to reintroduction areas in China, Mongolia, and Kazakhstan, according to the Smithsonian Institute.

The last truly wild horse can be found in Mongolia; they are called Przewalski's horses. They happen to be distant cousins of the domestic horse, which was once believed to be their ancestor.

Based on mitochondrial DNA, they may have separated from a common ancestor 500,000 years ago.

According to the institute, the wild horses that wander Australia, North America's western plains, and the barrier islands off the East Coast are actually domestic horses who fled from ranches and farms.

Also Read: Wild Horse Caroline Dies of Neck Injury as Aggressive Stallion Attempts Mating -North Carolina

Przewalski's Horse Project

The Przewalski's horse species is recovering from an extreme historical bottleneck, like many other endangered species. Today's 2,000+ Przewalski horses are descended from just 12 people.

Continual reintroductions throughout the 1990s have helped to create wild herds in Mongolia and China, but genetic diversity needs to be restored for the species to continue existing.

Using a cell line that had been cryopreserved at the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance Frozen Zoo since 1980, Revive & Restore, together with the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance, as well as ViaGen Pets and Equine, began working together in 2018 to clone the first Przewalski's horse in history.

Kurt, the foal, was born on August 6, 2020, and he possesses valuable genetic diversity that has been lost from the existing gene pool.

The same cell line gave birth to a second Przewalski's horse clone on February 17, 2023.

Kurt and the young foal are genetic twins who might be the first cloned creatures to replenish their species' genetic diversity, according to Revive & Restore.

Related Article: 5 Most Expensive Horse Breeds in the World: What They're Worth
A man was attacked by a shark while swimming in the Red Sea in Egypt. Thanks to a group of dolphins, his life was saved.

A report on Live Science said Martin Richardson was in the middle of the sea when he was bitten at least five times by a mako shark. In his mind, he was near to death as he believed there was no reason for the wild animal to stop.

"I had lost approximately 5 pints [2.8 liters] of blood. You only have 8 to 9 [pints, or 4.5 to 5 L] in your body. I was waiting for a feeding frenzy... I knew it was circling me... I turned away and looked at the mountains. I gave up," Richardson was quoted in the report.

Richardson recalled that the attack fortunately stopped when a group of dolphins appeared.

He firmly believed that the dolphins saved his life from the shark.

When the attack stopped, Richardson was immediately pulled onto the boat that was trying to catch and save him from the shark. He was then brought to the hospital wherein he was given more than 300 stitches.

Dolphins protecting their community

Marine biologist Tom Hird said in the report that "Being saved by another animal is certainly a very romantic notion."

However, there were also doubts on whether the dolphins were really trying to save the human of they were trying to protect themselves from imminent danger.

A report on Daily Star quoted Professor Mike Heithaus of the Department of Biological Sciences at Florida International University saying that if the dolphins had their young, they might have suspected the shark was looking to attack their babies, therefore they opted to go on the offensive.

Heithaus mentioned that there were a lot of cases wherein it seemed that dolphins and even whales were protecting humans, but in most cases, this was not actually the case.

"The dolphins see a big cloud of blood, they know a shark is in the area," Heithaus said in the report. "They may not have been trying to save Martin."

Read Also: 'Guardian Angels' and Dolphins Save Australian Surfer From Gargantuan 20-Foot Shark

Previous incident

An Inside Hook report echoed that this action of dolphins could be less out of altruism and more to protect their own lives.

In other words, saving a human life might only a "side effect" because the dolphins were really out in the sea to protect their own community, according to the report.

One of the similar incidents that was reported before was when British swimmer Adam Walker was completing his 16-mile challenge swim across the Cook Strait when he came across a shark, the Daily Mail reported.

The swimmer tried not to panic when he saw the wild animal swimming beneath him.

Right after that, Walker noticed that the dolphins, who was swimming with him from the start, formed a ring around him, which acted as a shield against the shark's attack.

The report said sticking together in pods is the main way of the dolphins to defend one another from a sharks.

Related Article: 7 Disturbing Facts That Reveal The Mean Side Of Dolphins
The extreme heat being experienced in Texas is forecasted to move towards southern United States, weather specialists said.

According to a report on AccuWeather, meteorologists warned that the core of the extreme heat in Texas was likely to move farther to the east over the southern United States.

Weather experts explained that the core of the large heat dome, which prompted temperatures to rise past 100 degrees Fahrenheit in Texas, would begin to ease up in the next days.

However, they said temperatures are forecasted to remain near or above historical averages for central and eastern parts of Texas.

AccuWeather Senior Meteorologist Bill Deger said the high-pressure system, which has been responsible for the extreme heat over the previous couple of days and weeks, has exited Texas to the east.

"As the high-pressure area slides to the east, it will now pump up the heat over the Southeast into the early part of the weekend," Deger said in the report.

Temperatures are forecasted to remain in the middle to upper 90s in areas such as Louisiana, Arkansas, western Tennessee, Mississippi, Alabama and Georgia into Sunday.

On the other hand, cities such as Shreveport, Louisiana; Little Rock, Arkansas; Memphis, Tennessee; Jackson, Mississippi; Birmingham, Alabama; and Macon, Georgia; are among the major towns and cities that will have sweltering conditions.

Read Also: Triple-Digit Heatwave In Texas Leaves 13 Dead Due To Heat Stroke

Temperature in previous days

The weather condition in Texas had claimed multiple lives in the past days, including the 11 fatalities recorded in Webb County, a report in CNN said.

Experts said that the buildup of heat in urban areas and in homes that have no air conditioners can put a deadly strain on certain individuals.

Alex Sosnowski, senior meteorologist of AccuWeather, said the heat has been accompanied by high humidity levels which is also encountered in the central and eastern parts of Texas as well as in the southern Plains.

The report said McAllen in Texas had endured 18 days in a row of high temperatures at or above 100 through Friday.

Further, Dallas recently jumped on the 100-degree bandwagon with five straight days of triple-digit temperatures from Sunday through Thursday.

Meanwhile, the metro area in Houston also experienced 100-degree temperatures for several days, but high humidity levels have made it to feel much hotter than the slightly lower temperatures near the Gulf Coast.

Heat advisory

A New York Times' report said more than 55 million people in the United States were under heat advisory.

This will warn and caution the public against extensive heat that can affect one's health and lifestyle.

Earlier, the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recorded an average 837 heat-related emergency room visits per 100,000.

However, the number of visits might be higher because not all medical centers are reported and included in the data.

More than 100 heat-related incidents have been responded by the paramedics in the past two weeks in Austin, city officials said as reported by Independent.

Due to this weather condition, experts have urged the public to avoid strenuous activity and drink plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration.

They are also advised to seek an air-conditioned environment where and when possible to reduce the risk of heat-related sickness.

Related Article: South-Central US Heatwaves: Scorching Heat To Unfold In Texas Until Weekend
Are you constantly worried about the well-being of your cats? Then you might be interested in downloading an application that can detect if your cat is in pain.

A Tokyo-based tech firm and university have collaborated to produce an app trained on thousands of cat photos that can tell if your pet is in agony.

"Cat Pain Detector" has gained 43,000 users since it was releaseed last May, a Phys.Org report said.

6,000 Cat Photos

Go Sakioka, Carelogy's head developer, said the users of their app are mostly from Japan, but it has caught the attention of cat owners who are from Europe and South America.

The company teamed up with Nihon University College of Bioresource Science wherein they studied at least 6,000 cat photos to determine the position of the animal's ears, noses, whiskers, and eyelids.

They used a scoring system created by the University of Montreal to assess minute variations between healthy cats and those experiencing discomfort as a result of imperceptible illnesses.

Then, they entered the data into an AI detection system, which has improved its abilities as a result of the user-uploaded photographs.

"The app has an accuracy level of more than 90%", Sakioka told AFP as cited in a Yahoo article.

This modern-day app is part of an initiative by technological companies to determine the overall welfare of their fur babies, including a similar mood and pain detector which made in Canada and Israel.

Read Also: Japanese Study Suggests That Cats Can Remember Each Other's Names

App Used In Vet Clinics

The Japan Pet Food Association noted that 60% of cat owners in Japan bring their feline to the vet once a year.

The developers of the latest app said they want to give cat owners a provision of whether they need to bring their pets to the veterinarian or not.

"We want to help cat owners judge more easily at home whether to see a vet or not," Sakioka said.

Japanese veterinarians have already started using the app, but the developer warned that the AI system needs to be enhanced to be more accurate before it is used as a standardized tool.

Cats Symbolized Good Luck In Japan

A maneki-neko is a popular Japanese cat figurine believed to bring good luck.

The Japanese considered cats to have protective powers and symbolize good fortune, hence, cat owners in the Land of the Rising Sun spend a lot on the welfare of their pets.

Katsuhiro Miyamoto, professor emeritus at Kansai University, said the Japanese phenomenon "nekonomics," or economic effects of cats, has earned about US$14.6 billion (1.9 trillion yen) in 2021 alone, MenaFN reported.

Japanese also frequently visit cat theme cafes and tourist spots, such as islands known for having a lot of cats just to take pictures and pet the cats.

In 2022, cats population in Japan was recorded at an estimated 8.8 million as it remained to be one of the leading animals held as pets in the country.

Related Article: New Japanese Study Suggests Cats Are Able To Grasp Law Of Physics To Hunt Prey
DAMASCUS/JERUSALEM, July 2 (Xinhua) -- Israel launched a missile strike on military sites in Syria's central province of Homs after midnight Sunday, causing material damage, the Syrian army said in a statement.

According to the statement, the missiles triggered the Syrian air defenses, which intercepted some of the missiles.

The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights war monitor said the attack targeted weapon depots of the Iranian-backed militias.

After the attack, Syria launched an anti-aircraft missile into Israeli territory, which exploded in midair and caused no injuries, the Israeli military said in a statement on Sunday.

In response to the Syrian missile attack, Israeli fighter jets then struck the Syrian air defense battery from which the anti-aircraft missile was launched into Israeli territory and "other targets in the area," the Israeli statement added.

The Israeli military did not comment on the airstrikes in Homs.

The Syrian army occasionally launches missiles in response to frequent Israeli airstrikes within the country. 
Dipak Mondal By

Express News Service

NEW DELHI: The GST turned six on 30th June this year. A pathbreaking tax reform despite the many early hiccups the laws seem to have started to settle down and deliver results as was expected.

The growth in GST collection has been picking up as compliances improved and more taxpayers came under the GST fold. Though the compliances have increased, digitalization of all the processes have reduced the paperwork. However, the GST is far from being perfect even after six years.

Robust collection, speedier movement of goods

From an average monthly GST collection of Rs 82,000 crore in the first year of GST in 2017-18, the average collection has surpassed Rs 1.50 lakh crore, registering a compounded annual growth rate (CAGR) of almost 13 per cent. In the first full year of GST in 2018-19, the total GST collection was Rs 11.77 lakh crore. In 2022-23, the collections rose to Rs 18 lakh crore, growing at a CAGR of over 11 per cent.

As per Abhishek Rastogi, a GST lawyer and founder of Rastogi Chambers, the GST framework has certain inherent characteristics, which require businesses to complete compliance on time. As a corollary, GST collections have been increasing consistently over a period of time, he says.

The states, which had their doubts about the loss of revenue due to GST, have not fared poorly either. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman while speaking at an event on the completion of 6 years of GST in New Delhi on Saturday said that the states tax growth was at 8.3 per cent before GST, but post-GST tax revenues have gone up at 12.3 per cent.

States have not lost out under GST. GST has brought higher tax buoyancy for states, and even without GST compensation, states tax buoyancy at 1.15, the FM said. Though, it is also true that some state governments have raised the issue of their shrinking tax sovereignty under GST. The movement of goods across states has improved with the introduction of GST as most of the documents are uploaded electronically and there is a better mechanism to track the goods, classification and tax details, say experts.

Over the last six years, the government has introduced several measures, including rolling out e-way bills, leading to faster movement of goods across state borders.

Ironing out issues

After teething problems in the initial years, and the resultant chopping and changing of tax rates and rules, the GST laws have started settling down, but there are still some issues that need ironing out.

The situation is way better as compared to 2017 when it was first introduced, but as it stands, the GST regime is yet to become a perfect or close to a perfect system, says Anita Rastogi, Partner, GST & Indirect Taxes at Pricewaterhouse Co & LLP. Abhishek Rastogi of Rastogi Chambers says that addressing a few structural changes such as blocking of credit issues, decriminalisation of certain provisions, clarity on jurisdictional issues, and clear provisions of penalty will further improve the tax structure.

Industry is still grappling with several issues surrounding the free flow of credits, and this needs to be looked into with a broader lens. He also pointed out that the provisions relating to blocked credits are also a huge cause of concern for the businesses, which should be rationalized, says Shashi Mathews, partner, Induslaw.

Merging of 12 per cent and 18 per cent tax rates is of utmost importance, feels Abhishek Rastorgi, as this will reduce classification disputes as well. There are certain goods and services which are exempted under GST, and as a result, the suppliers are not able to utilise the input tax credits. Experts say these supplies should either be taxed at a 5 per cent rate with the option of utilising the credit or a refund must be granted to keep the prices of these supplies under control.

Clarity on various interpretational matters should be provided, and a special focus should be on the new age sectors such as NFT (Non-Fungible tokens), cryptocurrencies, etc, feels Anita Rastogi, Partner, GST & Indirect Taxes at Pricewaterhouse Co & LLP.

Rise of litigations under GST

It was expected that litigations under GST would be fewer as it was supposed to be a simple and uniform tax law. However, tax experts and lawyers feel litigations under the GST are on the rise.

Due to varying rates applicable on goods and services, a lot of litigation on the issues of classification has emerged, says Mathews. The contrary views of the Authority for Advance Ruling in states have added to the litigations. And without the formation of a GST Tribunal, even High Courts and even the Supreme Court are burdened with GST cases.

NEW DELHI: The GST turned six on 30th June this year. A pathbreaking tax reform despite the many early hiccups the laws seem to have started to settle down and deliver results as was expected. The growth in GST collection has been picking up as compliances improved and more taxpayers came under the GST fold. Though the compliances have increased, digitalization of all the processes have reduced the paperwork. However, the GST is far from being perfect even after six years. Robust collection, speedier movement of goodsgoogletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); From an average monthly GST collection of Rs 82,000 crore in the first year of GST in 2017-18, the average collection has surpassed Rs 1.50 lakh crore, registering a compounded annual growth rate (CAGR) of almost 13 per cent. In the first full year of GST in 2018-19, the total GST collection was Rs 11.77 lakh crore. In 2022-23, the collections rose to Rs 18 lakh crore, growing at a CAGR of over 11 per cent. As per Abhishek Rastogi, a GST lawyer and founder of Rastogi Chambers, the GST framework has certain inherent characteristics, which require businesses to complete compliance on time. As a corollary, GST collections have been increasing consistently over a period of time, he says. The states, which had their doubts about the loss of revenue due to GST, have not fared poorly either. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman while speaking at an event on the completion of 6 years of GST in New Delhi on Saturday said that the states tax growth was at 8.3 per cent before GST, but post-GST tax revenues have gone up at 12.3 per cent. States have not lost out under GST. GST has brought higher tax buoyancy for states, and even without GST compensation, states tax buoyancy at 1.15, the FM said. Though, it is also true that some state governments have raised the issue of their shrinking tax sovereignty under GST. The movement of goods across states has improved with the introduction of GST as most of the documents are uploaded electronically and there is a better mechanism to track the goods, classification and tax details, say experts. Over the last six years, the government has introduced several measures, including rolling out e-way bills, leading to faster movement of goods across state borders. Ironing out issues After teething problems in the initial years, and the resultant chopping and changing of tax rates and rules, the GST laws have started settling down, but there are still some issues that need ironing out. The situation is way better as compared to 2017 when it was first introduced, but as it stands, the GST regime is yet to become a perfect or close to a perfect system, says Anita Rastogi, Partner, GST & Indirect Taxes at Pricewaterhouse Co & LLP. Abhishek Rastogi of Rastogi Chambers says that addressing a few structural changes such as blocking of credit issues, decriminalisation of certain provisions, clarity on jurisdictional issues, and clear provisions of penalty will further improve the tax structure. Industry is still grappling with several issues surrounding the free flow of credits, and this needs to be looked into with a broader lens. He also pointed out that the provisions relating to blocked credits are also a huge cause of concern for the businesses, which should be rationalized, says Shashi Mathews, partner, Induslaw. Merging of 12 per cent and 18 per cent tax rates is of utmost importance, feels Abhishek Rastorgi, as this will reduce classification disputes as well. There are certain goods and services which are exempted under GST, and as a result, the suppliers are not able to utilise the input tax credits. Experts say these supplies should either be taxed at a 5 per cent rate with the option of utilising the credit or a refund must be granted to keep the prices of these supplies under control. Clarity on various interpretational matters should be provided, and a special focus should be on the new age sectors such as NFT (Non-Fungible tokens), cryptocurrencies, etc, feels Anita Rastogi, Partner, GST & Indirect Taxes at Pricewaterhouse Co & LLP. Rise of litigations under GST It was expected that litigations under GST would be fewer as it was supposed to be a simple and uniform tax law. However, tax experts and lawyers feel litigations under the GST are on the rise. Due to varying rates applicable on goods and services, a lot of litigation on the issues of classification has emerged, says Mathews. The contrary views of the Authority for Advance Ruling in states have added to the litigations. And without the formation of a GST Tribunal, even High Courts and even the Supreme Court are burdened with GST cases.
Sumeet Bhasin By

There have been few political leaders who have enjoyed full public trust. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is one of them. Having crafted Indian diplomacy to serve the national interests, his visit to the US shows the arrival of India on the global stage. PM Modi summed up his vision for Indias foreign policy in 2014: Naa aankh jhukaunga, naa aankh dikhaunga; aankh se aankh mila kar baat karunga (neither will I lower my eyes, nor stare; I will look into eyes and talk). In his tenure so far, he has ensured that India is counted as an equal by the world powers.

In Indian political history, only two Prime MinistersLal Bahadur Shastri and Atal Bihari Vajpayee enjoyed such public support. People responded with zeal and vigour to Shastris call of Jai Jawan, Jai Kisan; this was the time when the country faced external threats and also fought internal war against hunger. Vajpayee announced the arrival of India on the global stage by conducting nuclear tests in 1998. When India faced Western sanctions for it, the former PM called upon the NRIs to help the country. They responded by depositing more than Rs 50,000 crore in various schemes. The Indian diaspora did so because they believed that Vajpayee was pursuing the path of reform, perform and transform. PM Modi is in the league of Shastri and Vajpayee.

During the 2002 SAARC Summit, former Pakistani President Pervez Musharraf extended the hand of friendship to Vajpayee, who quickly said such gestures should be matched with action on ground. Modi, in 2015, on his return from Afghanistan, made a surprise stopover in Islamabad to meet his counterpart Nawaz Sharif. Earlier he had also invited SAARC leaders to his swearing-in ceremony in 2014, showing his intent to work with neighbours.

The world powers measure the strength of the leadership. They had seen Manmohan Singh allowing the insertion of Balochistan in Sharm el-Sheikh in a joint statement with Pakistani leadership. Such self-goal did not go unnoticed. The gains made by Vajpayee were squandered during the 10 years of UPA rule. Modi picked the thread once more in 2014 and began working from where Vajpayee had left. The Western nations took note of the fact that he has a decisive leadership and enjoys full public support. With the surgical strike, Modi showed that when you take action on the basis of empirical evidence and databases, the leadership of the country gets the strength to stand up to the superpowers. The US and other nations saw the repeat of the Modi doctrine in the Galwan clash of 2020 in eastern Ladakh.

The perception about India has changed. The West has started acknowledging that the nation can no longer be held back. Modi won friends all over the world because he showed that the country was not an aggressor, but was capable enough to defend. India raises its voice against terrorism, hunger, climate change, developmental inequities and gender discrimination. Its partnership with small island nations such as Sri Lanka and the Maldives is a template for good relations. It stands for the poorwhen half the population of Afghanistan was starving last year, the country sent wheat and medicines. India is now indispensable for the global order, which aims to work for the well-being of humanity.

(Author is Director, Public Policy Research Centre; he tweets at @BhasinSumeet)

There have been few political leaders who have enjoyed full public trust. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is one of them. Having crafted Indian diplomacy to serve the national interests, his visit to the US shows the arrival of India on the global stage. PM Modi summed up his vision for Indias foreign policy in 2014: Naa aankh jhukaunga, naa aankh dikhaunga; aankh se aankh mila kar baat karunga (neither will I lower my eyes, nor stare; I will look into eyes and talk). In his tenure so far, he has ensured that India is counted as an equal by the world powers. In Indian political history, only two Prime MinistersLal Bahadur Shastri and Atal Bihari Vajpayee enjoyed such public support. People responded with zeal and vigour to Shastris call of Jai Jawan, Jai Kisan; this was the time when the country faced external threats and also fought internal war against hunger. Vajpayee announced the arrival of India on the global stage by conducting nuclear tests in 1998. When India faced Western sanctions for it, the former PM called upon the NRIs to help the country. They responded by depositing more than Rs 50,000 crore in various schemes. The Indian diaspora did so because they believed that Vajpayee was pursuing the path of reform, perform and transform. PM Modi is in the league of Shastri and Vajpayee. During the 2002 SAARC Summit, former Pakistani President Pervez Musharraf extended the hand of friendship to Vajpayee, who quickly said such gestures should be matched with action on ground. Modi, in 2015, on his return from Afghanistan, made a surprise stopover in Islamabad to meet his counterpart Nawaz Sharif. Earlier he had also invited SAARC leaders to his swearing-in ceremony in 2014, showing his intent to work with neighbours.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); The world powers measure the strength of the leadership. They had seen Manmohan Singh allowing the insertion of Balochistan in Sharm el-Sheikh in a joint statement with Pakistani leadership. Such self-goal did not go unnoticed. The gains made by Vajpayee were squandered during the 10 years of UPA rule. Modi picked the thread once more in 2014 and began working from where Vajpayee had left. The Western nations took note of the fact that he has a decisive leadership and enjoys full public support. With the surgical strike, Modi showed that when you take action on the basis of empirical evidence and databases, the leadership of the country gets the strength to stand up to the superpowers. The US and other nations saw the repeat of the Modi doctrine in the Galwan clash of 2020 in eastern Ladakh. The perception about India has changed. The West has started acknowledging that the nation can no longer be held back. Modi won friends all over the world because he showed that the country was not an aggressor, but was capable enough to defend. India raises its voice against terrorism, hunger, climate change, developmental inequities and gender discrimination. Its partnership with small island nations such as Sri Lanka and the Maldives is a template for good relations. It stands for the poorwhen half the population of Afghanistan was starving last year, the country sent wheat and medicines. India is now indispensable for the global order, which aims to work for the well-being of humanity. (Author is Director, Public Policy Research Centre; he tweets at @BhasinSumeet)
By Online Desk

Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) leader Ajit Pawar joined the Eknath Shinde-led Maharashtra government as the deputy chief minister on Sunday. He will share the post with BJP's Devendra Fadnavis.

Pawar took oath in a ceremony in Raj Bhawan.

Eight NCP leaders were sworn in as ministers: Chhagan Bhujbal, Dilip Walse Patil, Hasan Mushrif, Dhananjay Munde, Aditi Tatkare, Dharmarao Atram, Anil Patil and Sanjay Bansode.

Out of the total 53 NCP MLAs in the state, 40 are with Pawar, Maharashtra BJP president Chandrashekhar Bawankule claimed.

Maharashtra Assembly Speaker Rahul Narwekar, who was present in the Raj Bhawan, said Ajit Pawar has resigned as the leader of opposition (LoP) in the Lower House and that he has accepted it.

Deputy Speaker Narhari Zirwal and NCP working president Praful Patel were also present in the Raj Bhawan.

Ajit Pawar defended his decision to share power with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

"If we can go with the Shiv Sena, then we can go with the BJP as well. The same thing happened in Nagaland as well. Overall and comprehensive development was taken into account. We have a vast experience of the administration, we can utilise it for the good," he said.

The cabinet portfolios will be announced in a couple of days and we will immediately start working on it, he added.

VIDEO l NCP leader Ajit Pawar takes oath as Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra at Raj Bhavan in Mumbai. pic.twitter.com/KZw4nBK6im  Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) July 2, 2023

Ajit Pawar recently had said he was not keen on continuing as the LoP in the Assembly and that he wanted to work in the party organisation.

Earlier today, Pawar met some party leaders and MLAs at his official residence in Mumbai. NCP's Chhagan Bhujbal and party's working president Supriya Sule were among the leaders present at the meeting. However, NCP president Sharad Pawar, who was in Pune, said he was unaware of the meet, but added that Ajit Pawar, as leader of opposition in the Assembly, can call a meeting of legislators.

Elections to the 288-member state Assembly are due next year.

After the 2019 Maharashtra Assembly polls, the Uddhav Thackeray-led Shiv Sena snapped ties with long-term ally BJP.

Later, Devendra Fadnavis and Ajit Pawar were sworn in as the chief minister and deputy CM respectively in a hush-hush ceremony at the Raj Bhawan, but their government lasted only 80 hours.

Thackeray subsequently tied-up with the NCP and Congress to form the MVA government.

In June last year, a revolt led by Eknath Shinde led to a split in the Shiv Sena and the collapse of the MVA government, following which Shinde became the CM with the BJP's support. Devendra Fadnavis became the deputy CM.

ALSO READ | Maharashtra sees four oath-taking ceremonies since 2019

Reactions pour in over political developments in state:

Eknath Shinde: Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde said Maharashtra will now sprint forward with one chief minister and two deputy chief ministers.

"Politics of development is being backed by a man of development. When a deserving party worker gets a secondary role, such things happen," Shinde said.

"Now the double engine government has a triple engine. The state will sprint (on the path of development). Now we have one CM and two deputy chief ministers. This will help faster development of the state," he told reporters.

Sharad Pawar: NCP chief Sharad Pawar said it was not the party's decision to go with BJP-Shiv Sena.

"I am not bothered that people have left, but I am worried for their future Those (leaders) who violated party line and took the oath (as ministers), a decision has to be taken on them," he said.

Sharad Pawar tried to put up a brave face, saying such things (rebellion in a party) are not new for him.

Sanjay Raut: Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut said people of Maharashtra will not tolerate such a "circus", an apparent reference to government formation through vertical splits in political parties, for long.

"Some people seem to be determined to completely spoil Maharashtra's politics. Let them proceed on their chosen path," said Raut, in an apparent reference to Ajit Pawar, CM Shinde and the Bharatiya Janata Party.

In a tweet, Raut said, "I just spoke with NCP Sharad Pawar. He said he is firm and people's support is behind us. We can make a fresh start with Uddhav Thackeray." He added that Nationalist Congress Party supremo Sharad Pawar is undeterred by the split in his party and can start afresh.

Jairam Ramesh: Congress general secretary Jairam Ramesh said, "Clearly the BJP's Washing Machine has resumed its operations. A number of new entrants into the BJP-led alliance in Maharashtra today had been facing serious corruption charges with ED, CBI and Income Tax authorities after them. Now they have all got a clean chit."

The Congress will intensify its efforts to free Maharashtra from the clutches of the BJP, Ramesh asserted.

The Congress is part of the Maha Vikas Aghadi alliance comprising itself, Shiv Sena (Uddhav Thackeray) and the NCP.

(With PTI inputs)

Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) leader Ajit Pawar joined the Eknath Shinde-led Maharashtra government as the deputy chief minister on Sunday. He will share the post with BJP's Devendra Fadnavis. Pawar took oath in a ceremony in Raj Bhawan. Eight NCP leaders were sworn in as ministers: Chhagan Bhujbal, Dilip Walse Patil, Hasan Mushrif, Dhananjay Munde, Aditi Tatkare, Dharmarao Atram, Anil Patil and Sanjay Bansode.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); Out of the total 53 NCP MLAs in the state, 40 are with Pawar, Maharashtra BJP president Chandrashekhar Bawankule claimed. Maharashtra Assembly Speaker Rahul Narwekar, who was present in the Raj Bhawan, said Ajit Pawar has resigned as the leader of opposition (LoP) in the Lower House and that he has accepted it. Deputy Speaker Narhari Zirwal and NCP working president Praful Patel were also present in the Raj Bhawan. Ajit Pawar defended his decision to share power with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). "If we can go with the Shiv Sena, then we can go with the BJP as well. The same thing happened in Nagaland as well. Overall and comprehensive development was taken into account. We have a vast experience of the administration, we can utilise it for the good," he said. The cabinet portfolios will be announced in a couple of days and we will immediately start working on it, he added. VIDEO l NCP leader Ajit Pawar takes oath as Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra at Raj Bhavan in Mumbai. pic.twitter.com/KZw4nBK6im  Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) July 2, 2023 Ajit Pawar recently had said he was not keen on continuing as the LoP in the Assembly and that he wanted to work in the party organisation. Earlier today, Pawar met some party leaders and MLAs at his official residence in Mumbai. NCP's Chhagan Bhujbal and party's working president Supriya Sule were among the leaders present at the meeting. However, NCP president Sharad Pawar, who was in Pune, said he was unaware of the meet, but added that Ajit Pawar, as leader of opposition in the Assembly, can call a meeting of legislators. Elections to the 288-member state Assembly are due next year. After the 2019 Maharashtra Assembly polls, the Uddhav Thackeray-led Shiv Sena snapped ties with long-term ally BJP. Later, Devendra Fadnavis and Ajit Pawar were sworn in as the chief minister and deputy CM respectively in a hush-hush ceremony at the Raj Bhawan, but their government lasted only 80 hours. Thackeray subsequently tied-up with the NCP and Congress to form the MVA government. In June last year, a revolt led by Eknath Shinde led to a split in the Shiv Sena and the collapse of the MVA government, following which Shinde became the CM with the BJP's support. Devendra Fadnavis became the deputy CM. ALSO READ | Maharashtra sees four oath-taking ceremonies since 2019 Reactions pour in over political developments in state: Eknath Shinde: Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde said Maharashtra will now sprint forward with one chief minister and two deputy chief ministers. "Politics of development is being backed by a man of development. When a deserving party worker gets a secondary role, such things happen," Shinde said. "Now the double engine government has a triple engine. The state will sprint (on the path of development). Now we have one CM and two deputy chief ministers. This will help faster development of the state," he told reporters. Sharad Pawar: NCP chief Sharad Pawar said it was not the party's decision to go with BJP-Shiv Sena. "I am not bothered that people have left, but I am worried for their future Those (leaders) who violated party line and took the oath (as ministers), a decision has to be taken on them," he said. Sharad Pawar tried to put up a brave face, saying such things (rebellion in a party) are not new for him. Sanjay Raut: Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut said people of Maharashtra will not tolerate such a "circus", an apparent reference to government formation through vertical splits in political parties, for long. "Some people seem to be determined to completely spoil Maharashtra's politics. Let them proceed on their chosen path," said Raut, in an apparent reference to Ajit Pawar, CM Shinde and the Bharatiya Janata Party. In a tweet, Raut said, "I just spoke with NCP Sharad Pawar. He said he is firm and people's support is behind us. We can make a fresh start with Uddhav Thackeray." He added that Nationalist Congress Party supremo Sharad Pawar is undeterred by the split in his party and can start afresh. Jairam Ramesh: Congress general secretary Jairam Ramesh said, "Clearly the BJP's Washing Machine has resumed its operations. A number of new entrants into the BJP-led alliance in Maharashtra today had been facing serious corruption charges with ED, CBI and Income Tax authorities after them. Now they have all got a clean chit." The Congress will intensify its efforts to free Maharashtra from the clutches of the BJP, Ramesh asserted. The Congress is part of the Maha Vikas Aghadi alliance comprising itself, Shiv Sena (Uddhav Thackeray) and the NCP. (With PTI inputs)
By Express News Service

LUCKNOW: Union Home Minister Amit Shah charged the previous SP, BSP and Congress dispensations of depriving the poor and backward sections of their rightful.

Amit Shah was addressing a gathering at an event anchored by Apna Dal (s) chief and minister in Modi cabinet Anupriya Patel to mark the 74th birth anniversary of her father and founder of Apna Dal here on Sunday.

Shah reiterated that the upcoming general elections would be fought by BJP along with allies Apna Dal (s) and NISHAD party to win all 80 seats in Uttar Pradesh.

Shah described Apna Dal (S) as a strong partner of the BJP-led NDA in Uttar Pradesh that had consistently thwarted the nefarious bid of SP and BSP to orchestrate division in society for electoral gains.

"BJP-Apna Dal have been winning the previous elections (two Lok Sabha and two Uttar Pradesh assembly elections) because we have fought unitedly and cohesively. We have to do it again," he said.

Shahs rhetoric marked BJP's bid to project a united front with its allies for countering an aggressive opposition in the run-up to the high-stakes 2024 Lok Sabha elections.

While claiming that during SP, BSP and Congress rules, the deprived and downtrodden did not get their right, Shah said that PM Modi had accorded constitutional status to backward classes during his nine-year tenure. He claimed that it was the first time that as many as 27 OBC ministers got a berth in the Union cabinet.

Significantly, the event to mark the birth anniversary of Apna Dal founder Sonelal Patel is an annual affair organised by the Apna Dal (S) workers and leaders every year. This year, just ahead of the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, all the senior BJP leaders including Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath, both the deputy CMsKeshav Maurya and Brajesh Pathak, state Finance Minister Suresh Khanna, Agriculture Minister Surya Pratap Shahi, Industry minister Nand Gopal Gupta Nandi, Jal Shakti minister Swantantra Dev Singh and UP BJP chief Bhupendra Patel and other allies including Union minister and RPI chief Ram Das Athawale, and NISHAD party president Sanjay Nishad, were invited and their presence on the dais was a reflection of the status of Apna Dal (S) in NDA.

Apna Dal (S) has its clout among the backward sections including the Kurmis who make up a significant 4 per cent of the total electorate in UP.

Anupriya Patel, herself a Kurmi by caste, is a Member of Parliament from Mirzapur. Apna Dal (S) has two MPs in Lok Sabha.

The party had been tying up with the BJP for the last four elections  2014 and 2019 Lok Sabha and 2017, 2022 Assembly -- in Uttar Pradesh.

LUCKNOW: Union Home Minister Amit Shah charged the previous SP, BSP and Congress dispensations of depriving the poor and backward sections of their rightful. Amit Shah was addressing a gathering at an event anchored by Apna Dal (s) chief and minister in Modi cabinet Anupriya Patel to mark the 74th birth anniversary of her father and founder of Apna Dal here on Sunday. Shah reiterated that the upcoming general elections would be fought by BJP along with allies Apna Dal (s) and NISHAD party to win all 80 seats in Uttar Pradesh.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); Shah described Apna Dal (S) as a strong partner of the BJP-led NDA in Uttar Pradesh that had consistently thwarted the nefarious bid of SP and BSP to orchestrate division in society for electoral gains. "BJP-Apna Dal have been winning the previous elections (two Lok Sabha and two Uttar Pradesh assembly elections) because we have fought unitedly and cohesively. We have to do it again," he said. Shahs rhetoric marked BJP's bid to project a united front with its allies for countering an aggressive opposition in the run-up to the high-stakes 2024 Lok Sabha elections. While claiming that during SP, BSP and Congress rules, the deprived and downtrodden did not get their right, Shah said that PM Modi had accorded constitutional status to backward classes during his nine-year tenure. He claimed that it was the first time that as many as 27 OBC ministers got a berth in the Union cabinet. Significantly, the event to mark the birth anniversary of Apna Dal founder Sonelal Patel is an annual affair organised by the Apna Dal (S) workers and leaders every year. This year, just ahead of the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, all the senior BJP leaders including Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath, both the deputy CMsKeshav Maurya and Brajesh Pathak, state Finance Minister Suresh Khanna, Agriculture Minister Surya Pratap Shahi, Industry minister Nand Gopal Gupta Nandi, Jal Shakti minister Swantantra Dev Singh and UP BJP chief Bhupendra Patel and other allies including Union minister and RPI chief Ram Das Athawale, and NISHAD party president Sanjay Nishad, were invited and their presence on the dais was a reflection of the status of Apna Dal (S) in NDA. Apna Dal (S) has its clout among the backward sections including the Kurmis who make up a significant 4 per cent of the total electorate in UP. Anupriya Patel, herself a Kurmi by caste, is a Member of Parliament from Mirzapur. Apna Dal (S) has two MPs in Lok Sabha. The party had been tying up with the BJP for the last four elections  2014 and 2019 Lok Sabha and 2017, 2022 Assembly -- in Uttar Pradesh.
By PTI

NEW DELHI: The Delhi High Court is likely to pronounce on Monday its order on a public interest litigation (PIL) challenging the RBI's decision to withdraw Rs 2,000 denomination banknotes from circulation.

A bench of Chief Justice Satish Chandra Sharma and Justice Subramonium Prasad had reserved its order on the PIL on May 30 after hearing the counsels for the petitioner and the RBI.

Petitioner Rajneesh Bhaskar Gupta has contended that the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has no power to withdraw Rs 2,000 currency notes from circulation and only the Centre could have taken a decision in this regard.

In his petition, the petitioner submitted that the RBI has no independent power to direct the non-issue or discontinuance of the issue of banknotes of any denominational values and this power is vested only with the Centre under section 24 (2) of the RBI Act, 1934.

Regarding the high court's May 29 judgment on a PIL which had challenged the notifications by the RBI and SBI enabling the exchange of Rs 2,000 banknotes without requisition slip and identity proof, Agarwal had said that was a completely different issue.

The plea was opposed by the RBI which said it was only withdrawing Rs 2,000 notes from circulation which was a "currency management exercise" and a matter of economic policy.

Earlier, the high court had dismissed the plea by lawyer Ashwini Kumar Upadhyay, which claimed notifications by the RBI and SBI enabling the exchange of Rs 2,000 banknotes without proof were arbitrary and against the laws enacted to curb corruption, saying it has been done to avoid inconvenience to citizens and the court cannot sit as an appellate authority on a policy decision.

The high court has maintained it cannot be said that the government's decision is perverse or arbitrary or it encourages black money, money laundering, profiteering or abets corruption.

The instant petition stated that the RBI notification gave no other reason except "clean note policy" for the "big arbitrary decision of withdrawing the Rs 2,000 denomination banknotes from circulation without analysis of the expected problems of the public at large".

"RBI has not cleared so far what is the benefit to the RBI or National Economy after withdrawing the denomination of Rs 2000 banknote from circulation, however, the hardship to the citizen of the country is very well known and seen during the demonetisation of denomination of Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 in the year 2016 and withdrawn of Rs 2000 is not much different from previous demonetization," the plea said.

The banknotes in Rs 2,000 denomination will continue to be a legal tender, the RBI said in a statement.

In order to ensure operational convenience and to avoid disruption of regular activities of bank branches, the RBI has said the exchange of Rs 2,000 bank notes into banknotes of other denominations can be made up to a limit of Rs 20,000 at a time at any bank starting from May 23.

In a communication to the chief general manager of all its local head offices, the State Bank of India (SBI) informed that the facility of exchange of Rs 2,000 notes by the public up to a limit of Rs 20,000 at a time will be allowed without obtaining any requisition slip.

"Further, no identity proof is required to be submitted by the tenderer at the time of exchange," the communication dated May 20 said.

NEW DELHI: The Delhi High Court is likely to pronounce on Monday its order on a public interest litigation (PIL) challenging the RBI's decision to withdraw Rs 2,000 denomination banknotes from circulation. A bench of Chief Justice Satish Chandra Sharma and Justice Subramonium Prasad had reserved its order on the PIL on May 30 after hearing the counsels for the petitioner and the RBI. Petitioner Rajneesh Bhaskar Gupta has contended that the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has no power to withdraw Rs 2,000 currency notes from circulation and only the Centre could have taken a decision in this regard.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); In his petition, the petitioner submitted that the RBI has no independent power to direct the non-issue or discontinuance of the issue of banknotes of any denominational values and this power is vested only with the Centre under section 24 (2) of the RBI Act, 1934. Regarding the high court's May 29 judgment on a PIL which had challenged the notifications by the RBI and SBI enabling the exchange of Rs 2,000 banknotes without requisition slip and identity proof, Agarwal had said that was a completely different issue. The plea was opposed by the RBI which said it was only withdrawing Rs 2,000 notes from circulation which was a "currency management exercise" and a matter of economic policy. Earlier, the high court had dismissed the plea by lawyer Ashwini Kumar Upadhyay, which claimed notifications by the RBI and SBI enabling the exchange of Rs 2,000 banknotes without proof were arbitrary and against the laws enacted to curb corruption, saying it has been done to avoid inconvenience to citizens and the court cannot sit as an appellate authority on a policy decision. The high court has maintained it cannot be said that the government's decision is perverse or arbitrary or it encourages black money, money laundering, profiteering or abets corruption. The instant petition stated that the RBI notification gave no other reason except "clean note policy" for the "big arbitrary decision of withdrawing the Rs 2,000 denomination banknotes from circulation without analysis of the expected problems of the public at large". "RBI has not cleared so far what is the benefit to the RBI or National Economy after withdrawing the denomination of Rs 2000 banknote from circulation, however, the hardship to the citizen of the country is very well known and seen during the demonetisation of denomination of Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 in the year 2016 and withdrawn of Rs 2000 is not much different from previous demonetization," the plea said. The banknotes in Rs 2,000 denomination will continue to be a legal tender, the RBI said in a statement. In order to ensure operational convenience and to avoid disruption of regular activities of bank branches, the RBI has said the exchange of Rs 2,000 bank notes into banknotes of other denominations can be made up to a limit of Rs 20,000 at a time at any bank starting from May 23. In a communication to the chief general manager of all its local head offices, the State Bank of India (SBI) informed that the facility of exchange of Rs 2,000 notes by the public up to a limit of Rs 20,000 at a time will be allowed without obtaining any requisition slip. "Further, no identity proof is required to be submitted by the tenderer at the time of exchange," the communication dated May 20 said.
By PTI

RANCHI: Former minister Jagarnath Mahto's wife Baby Devi will take oath as minister in the Hemant Soren-led UPA government in Jharkhand on Monday, a JMM leader said on Sunday.

A ministerial berth in the Hemant Soren cabinet was vacant after the death of Mahto, who held charge of school education and literacy and excise.

The swearing-in ceremony is likely to be held around noon in Raj Bhavan, the JMM leader said.

"Jharkhand Governor CP Radhakrishnan will administer the oath of office and secrecy to her at an event in Raj Bhavan.

Chief Minister Hemant Soren and other cabinet ministers will also be present at the ceremony," JMM central committee member Vinod Pandey told PTI.

Mahto, who was a four-time JMM MLA from Dumri in Giridih district, died during treatment at a Chennai hospital on April 6.

The Dumri assembly seat is vacant after the death of the former minister.

Devi is likely to contest in the by-election from the seat, the JMM leader said.

Devi told media persons on Sunday that she would complete the unfinished tasks of the former minister.

"The way he (Jagarnath Mahto) used to meet people and share their sorrow and pain, I will be doing the same in same manner," she said.

In the 81-member Jharkhand assembly, there could be a maximum of 12 ministers including the chief minister in the cabinet.

However, the Hemant Soren cabinet currently has 10 members.

Devi will be the second JMM leader, who will become a minister in the UPA government before being elected to the Assembly.

Earlier, JMM leader Hafizul Ansari was sworn-in as minister in the UPA government on February 6, 2021.

Later he won the Madhupur by-poll on May 2, 2021.

The by-election in Madhupur in Deoghar district was necessitated by the death of former minister Haji Hussain Ansari, father of Hafizul, on October 3, 2020.

RANCHI: Former minister Jagarnath Mahto's wife Baby Devi will take oath as minister in the Hemant Soren-led UPA government in Jharkhand on Monday, a JMM leader said on Sunday. A ministerial berth in the Hemant Soren cabinet was vacant after the death of Mahto, who held charge of school education and literacy and excise. The swearing-in ceremony is likely to be held around noon in Raj Bhavan, the JMM leader said.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); "Jharkhand Governor CP Radhakrishnan will administer the oath of office and secrecy to her at an event in Raj Bhavan. Chief Minister Hemant Soren and other cabinet ministers will also be present at the ceremony," JMM central committee member Vinod Pandey told PTI. Mahto, who was a four-time JMM MLA from Dumri in Giridih district, died during treatment at a Chennai hospital on April 6. The Dumri assembly seat is vacant after the death of the former minister. Devi is likely to contest in the by-election from the seat, the JMM leader said. Devi told media persons on Sunday that she would complete the unfinished tasks of the former minister. "The way he (Jagarnath Mahto) used to meet people and share their sorrow and pain, I will be doing the same in same manner," she said. In the 81-member Jharkhand assembly, there could be a maximum of 12 ministers including the chief minister in the cabinet. However, the Hemant Soren cabinet currently has 10 members. Devi will be the second JMM leader, who will become a minister in the UPA government before being elected to the Assembly. Earlier, JMM leader Hafizul Ansari was sworn-in as minister in the UPA government on February 6, 2021. Later he won the Madhupur by-poll on May 2, 2021. The by-election in Madhupur in Deoghar district was necessitated by the death of former minister Haji Hussain Ansari, father of Hafizul, on October 3, 2020.
Chen Mingjian, Chinese ambassador to Tanzania, addresses the 10th-anniversary celebration of the Confucius Institute at the University of Dar es Salaam in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, on July 1, 2023. The Confucius Institute at the University of Dar es Salaam in Tanzania on Saturday celebrated its 10th anniversary. Government officials, Chinese diplomats in Tanzania, representatives from Confucius institutes and Chinese companies in the country attended the ceremony. They also took part in a symposium on Chinese education in Africa. (Photo by Herman Emmanuel/Xinhua)

DAR ES SALAAM, July 1 (Xinhua) -- The Confucius Institute at the University of Dar es Salaam in Tanzania on Saturday celebrated its 10th anniversary.

Government officials, Chinese diplomats in Tanzania, representatives from Confucius institutes and Chinese companies in the country attended a ceremony held in Dar es Salaam, the largest city in the East African country. They also took part in a symposium on Chinese education in Africa.

Kenneth Hosea, director of the Department of Higher Education in the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology, commended the Confucius Institute at the University of Dar es Salaam for the accomplishments it has made in promoting mutual understanding of friendly cooperation between China and Tanzania.

Speaking on behalf of the minister, Hosea said the institute has been instrumental in offering cultural exchanges and Chinese language learning as an effective approach to the further development of China-Tanzania ties.

"The directors of the Confucius Institutes are working hard to ensure that Tanzanian youth learn the Chinese language so as to improve their competitiveness in both future career development and self-development," Hosea said.

Bernadeta Killian, acting vice chancellor of the University of Dar es Salaam, said the university was resuming offering Bachelor of Arts with Education (Chinese and English) to students who will later teach the Chinese language in primary and secondary schools in Tanzania.

Chen Mingjian, the Chinese ambassador to Tanzania, said so far the Confucius Institute has trained nearly 50,000 Chinese learners in Tanzania, providing opportunities for students who want to learn Chinese.

Chen said the Confucius Institute at the University of Dar es Salaam has also helped nearly 100 students to apply for scholarship, providing them with the opportunity to study in China.

During its 10 years in Tanzania, the institute has organized a total of 244 students to participate in Chinese summer camps for college and secondary school students, she said.

The Confucius Institute at the University of Dar es Salaam was established in 2013 under an agreement between the University of Dar es Salaam, the Chinese International Education Foundation and Zhejiang Normal University.

The vision of the Confucius Institute is to be one of the leading Chinese language training and testing centers, as well as one of the best Chinese cultural and academic exchange centers in Africa. 

Students perform a lion dance at the 10th-anniversary celebration of the Confucius Institute at the University of Dar es Salaam in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, on July 1, 2023. The Confucius Institute at the University of Dar es Salaam in Tanzania on Saturday celebrated its 10th anniversary. Government officials, Chinese diplomats in Tanzania, representatives from Confucius institutes and Chinese companies in the country attended the ceremony. They also took part in a symposium on Chinese education in Africa. (Photo by Herman Emmanuel/Xinhua)

Tanzanian teachers sing a Chinese song at the 10th-anniversary celebration of the Confucius Institute at the University of Dar es Salaam in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, on July 1, 2023. The Confucius Institute at the University of Dar es Salaam in Tanzania on Saturday celebrated its 10th anniversary. Government officials, Chinese diplomats in Tanzania, representatives from Confucius institutes and Chinese companies in the country attended the ceremony. They also took part in a symposium on Chinese education in Africa. (Photo by Herman Emmanuel/Xinhua)

Bernadeta Killian, acting vice chancellor of the University of Dar es Salaam, addresses the 10th-anniversary celebration of the Confucius Institute at the University of Dar es Salaam in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, on July 1, 2023. The Confucius Institute at the University of Dar es Salaam in Tanzania on Saturday celebrated its 10th anniversary. Government officials, Chinese diplomats in Tanzania, representatives from Confucius institutes and Chinese companies in the country attended the ceremony. They also took part in a symposium on Chinese education in Africa. (Photo by Herman Emmanuel/Xinhua)
By PTI

MUMBAI: Nationalist Congress Party's senior leader Ajit Pawar on Sunday met some party leaders and MLAs at his official residence in Mumbai.

However, NCP president Sharad Pawar, who was in Pune, said he was unaware of the meeting, but added that Ajit Pawar, as leader of the opposition (LoP) in the Maharashtra Assembly, can call a meeting of legislators.

BREAKING NEWS | Ajit Pawar takes oath as Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister, NCP leaders sworn in as ministers

The meeting assumes significance in the wake of Ajit Pawar recently saying he was not keen on continuing as the LoP and wanted to work in the party organisation.

Senior NCP leader Chhagan Bhujbal and the party's working president Supriya Sule were among the leaders present at the meeting held at Ajit Pawar's official residence 'Devgiri', while state party president Jayant Patil was not present.

Some MLAs were also present in the meeting. The agenda of the meeting was not known.

Meanwhile, Sharad Pawar told reporters in Pune that he was unaware of the meeting in Mumbai. "On July 6, I have called a meeting of senior leaders and decisions related to the party will be discussed," he said.

The NCP chief also said that as the LoP, Ajit Pawar can call a meeting of legislators.

MUMBAI: Nationalist Congress Party's senior leader Ajit Pawar on Sunday met some party leaders and MLAs at his official residence in Mumbai. However, NCP president Sharad Pawar, who was in Pune, said he was unaware of the meeting, but added that Ajit Pawar, as leader of the opposition (LoP) in the Maharashtra Assembly, can call a meeting of legislators. BREAKING NEWS | Ajit Pawar takes oath as Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister, NCP leaders sworn in as ministersgoogletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); The meeting assumes significance in the wake of Ajit Pawar recently saying he was not keen on continuing as the LoP and wanted to work in the party organisation. Senior NCP leader Chhagan Bhujbal and the party's working president Supriya Sule were among the leaders present at the meeting held at Ajit Pawar's official residence 'Devgiri', while state party president Jayant Patil was not present. Some MLAs were also present in the meeting. The agenda of the meeting was not known. Meanwhile, Sharad Pawar told reporters in Pune that he was unaware of the meeting in Mumbai. "On July 6, I have called a meeting of senior leaders and decisions related to the party will be discussed," he said. The NCP chief also said that as the LoP, Ajit Pawar can call a meeting of legislators.
By Agencies

IMPHAL: Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh on Saturday hinted that external forces or elements may have had a hand in the ethnic violence that claimed several lives in the state, ANI reported. The state is in the throes of a bloody conflict between the Meiteis and tribal Kukis since the March 27 Manipur High Court order that asked the state government to send a recommendation to the Centre within four weeks on the demand for Scheduled Tribes (ST) status to the majority community.

When asked during an ANI interview whether an international organisation could have played a role in the violence, Singh said that he could neither deny nor vehemently affirm the possibility.

He said that the violence seemed to have been planned, but the reason behind it was not clear. "Manipur shares its borders with Myanmar. China is also nearby. As much as 398 km of our borders are porous and unguarded. There are security forces deployed on our frontiers but even a robust and extensive security deployment can't cover such a vast area."

The CM reassured that the Centre and the state government were making all efforts for restoring peace to the state, adding that he spoke with his "Kuki brothers and sisters" over the telephone earlier in the day, saying, "Let's forgive and forget".

In an impassioned appeal to the people of the Northeast state, he said all tribes have to live together, adding that he will not allow Manipur to be splintered on ethnic lines.

"We are one. Manipur is a small state but we have 34 tribes. All of these 34 tribes have to live together. We just have to be careful that not many people from outside come and settle here. We have to ensure that there is no demographic imbalance. As the CM, I promise that I won't allow Manipur to break up and neither will there be a separate administrative authority in the state. I am prepared to make sacrifices to keep everyone together," the CM said.

Ethnic violence broke out on May 3 after thousands of people, mostly Kukis, participated in a protest march by the All Tribal Students Union (ATSU) to oppose the demand of the majority Meiteis to be included in the Scheduled Tribes category.

Meanwhile, Biren Singh, who was reportedly on the verge of resigning as CM on Friday, June 30, decided to withdraw the decision under public pressure. "At this critical juncture, I wish to clarify that I will not be resigning from the post of Chief Minister," Singh said on Twitter.

(With ANI, PTI inputs)

IMPHAL: Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh on Saturday hinted that external forces or elements may have had a hand in the ethnic violence that claimed several lives in the state, ANI reported. The state is in the throes of a bloody conflict between the Meiteis and tribal Kukis since the March 27 Manipur High Court order that asked the state government to send a recommendation to the Centre within four weeks on the demand for Scheduled Tribes (ST) status to the majority community. When asked during an ANI interview whether an international organisation could have played a role in the violence, Singh said that he could neither deny nor vehemently affirm the possibility. He said that the violence seemed to have been planned, but the reason behind it was not clear. "Manipur shares its borders with Myanmar. China is also nearby. As much as 398 km of our borders are porous and unguarded. There are security forces deployed on our frontiers but even a robust and extensive security deployment can't cover such a vast area."googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); The CM reassured that the Centre and the state government were making all efforts for restoring peace to the state, adding that he spoke with his "Kuki brothers and sisters" over the telephone earlier in the day, saying, "Let's forgive and forget". In an impassioned appeal to the people of the Northeast state, he said all tribes have to live together, adding that he will not allow Manipur to be splintered on ethnic lines. "We are one. Manipur is a small state but we have 34 tribes. All of these 34 tribes have to live together. We just have to be careful that not many people from outside come and settle here. We have to ensure that there is no demographic imbalance. As the CM, I promise that I won't allow Manipur to break up and neither will there be a separate administrative authority in the state. I am prepared to make sacrifices to keep everyone together," the CM said. Ethnic violence broke out on May 3 after thousands of people, mostly Kukis, participated in a protest march by the All Tribal Students Union (ATSU) to oppose the demand of the majority Meiteis to be included in the Scheduled Tribes category. Meanwhile, Biren Singh, who was reportedly on the verge of resigning as CM on Friday, June 30, decided to withdraw the decision under public pressure. "At this critical juncture, I wish to clarify that I will not be resigning from the post of Chief Minister," Singh said on Twitter. (With ANI, PTI inputs)
By PTI

MUMBAI: The Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) appointed Jitendra Awhad as Leader of Opposition in the Maharashtra Assembly after incumbent LoP Ajit Pawar joined the Eknath Shinde government as deputy chief minister on Sunday.

The development comes amid a close aide of Pawar saying 36 out of 53 NCP MLAs have extended support to the new deputy CM and the numbers could go to 46 in a few days time.

Awhad, MLA from Mumbra-Kalwa in neighbouring Thane district, said NCP state unit president Jayant Patil had appointed him a chief whip of the party and LoP in the Assembly.

"All the MLAs will have to abide my whip," he asserted in an apparent reference to defection and disqualification angles that are bound to come up in connection with Sunday's developments brought about by a vertical split in the NCP.

Queried on Enforcement Directorate and Central Bureau of Investigation probes against some NCP leaders and its role in them switching sides, Awhad said, "I don't see any other reason behind these leaders deciding to join the state government. There was no need to do such a thing. Those leaders could have sat aside."

"These leaders should not forget the party made them ministers in the past 25 years. Now, they are deserting their leader (83-year-old Sharad Pawar) in his twilight years," Awhad added.

Lok Sabha MPs Sunil Tatkare and Amol Kolhe and Rajya Sabha member Praful Patel attended Sunday's swearing-in ceremony.

MUMBAI: The Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) appointed Jitendra Awhad as Leader of Opposition in the Maharashtra Assembly after incumbent LoP Ajit Pawar joined the Eknath Shinde government as deputy chief minister on Sunday. The development comes amid a close aide of Pawar saying 36 out of 53 NCP MLAs have extended support to the new deputy CM and the numbers could go to 46 in a few days time. Awhad, MLA from Mumbra-Kalwa in neighbouring Thane district, said NCP state unit president Jayant Patil had appointed him a chief whip of the party and LoP in the Assembly.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); "All the MLAs will have to abide my whip," he asserted in an apparent reference to defection and disqualification angles that are bound to come up in connection with Sunday's developments brought about by a vertical split in the NCP. Queried on Enforcement Directorate and Central Bureau of Investigation probes against some NCP leaders and its role in them switching sides, Awhad said, "I don't see any other reason behind these leaders deciding to join the state government. There was no need to do such a thing. Those leaders could have sat aside." "These leaders should not forget the party made them ministers in the past 25 years. Now, they are deserting their leader (83-year-old Sharad Pawar) in his twilight years," Awhad added. Lok Sabha MPs Sunil Tatkare and Amol Kolhe and Rajya Sabha member Praful Patel attended Sunday's swearing-in ceremony.
Mayank Singh By

Express News Service

NEW DELHI: The history of war is full of instances where effective use of technology has been the dividing line between the victorious and vanquished. Revolutions in military warfare at various intervals have stimulated major shifts in tactics, strategy and employment of arms and equipment.

The employment of Unmanned Aircraft Systems in conventional conflicts like in Nagorno-Karabakh (Azerbaijan-Armenia), the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war and the unconventional global war on terror, have tilted the balance in favour of drones.

Where did it all begin

According to military historians, the first UAV called Ruston Proctor Aerial Target, was developed by the UK in 1916-17. Initially used as a surveillance platform, its potential for precision strikes was soon realised. US-based General Atomics first developed the MQ-1 Predator as a reconnaissance platform. By and by, it was modified into a strike drone by attaching a Hellfire missile payload. Ever since the expansion in drone technology has been mind-boggling.

The Predator

India initiated the process to buy 31 armed MQ-9B High Altitude Long Endurance (HALE) UAVs from General Atomics during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent visit to the US. General Atomics will also establish a Comprehensive Global MRO (maintenance, repair and operations) facility in India to support the country's long-term goals of indigenous production. The MQ-9Bs can loiter up to 50,000 ft, remain airborne for over 35 hours and carry four Hellfire missiles besides around 450 kg of other bombs.

The formal process to purchase it began with the Defence Acquisition Council on June 15, clearing the Acceptance of Necessity of 31 MQ-9Bs (16 Sky Guardian and 15 Sea Guardian) for the tri-services through the Foreign Military Sale route. The US government has suggested a total estimated ticket price of $3,072 million. Though there has been some political noise over its cost to the exchequer, the final price will be negotiated after regulatory clearance from the US government.

Why India needs MQ-9Bs

Given Indias geopolitical position, active borders with Pakistan, the prevalence of terrorism, and the ongoing stand-offs with China, the country needs a suitable policy framework that includes a robust counter-drone component considering the increasing number of incidents along the international border. The affordability and utility of drones have made them a platform of choice even for non-state actors.

Indias UAV requirements at present are mostly met from imports of the Heron I, the Searcher Mk II and the Harop loitering munition from Israel. They have been deployed to monitor activities along the volatile borders with China and Pakistan.

Indigenisation so far

India has a fairly wide basket of prototypes to indigenise production of UAVs but none has been integrated into the service so far. The prototypes include Defence Research and Development Organisation's (DRDO) Imperial Eagle, Aeronautical Development Establishment Laboratory and CSIRs National Aerospace Laboratories' Golden Hawk, National Aerospace Laboratory's Slybird and NAL/ADE's Pushpak. HALs Combat Air Teaming System, too, is in the development phase. The DRDO is also working on the Abhyas and Lakshya target drones.

Autonomous underwater vehicles for anti-submarine warfare are another category of drones, for which the process of Indian acquisition began in March this year. Besides, the DRDO is working on developing Submarine Launched Unmanned Aerial Systems.

Indias quest for drones started in 1990 with a DRDO project to build the Nishant UAV. Four of them were built but the Indian Army was not satisfied with its performance. Later, a wheeled version of Nishant called Panchi, was developed but not inducted.

The Indian army is in collaboration with the Drone Federation of India to develop a Him Drone-a-thon, which is a pan-India connection with all stakeholders, including the industry, academia, software developers and drone product manufacturers. It will be conducted in stages with quantifiable parameters (like altitude, weight, range, endurance etc) being progressively enhanced based on demonstrated capabilities.

The way ahead

Drones introduced a dramatic transformation in warfare in the last decade of the 21st century. The threat of drones, in conventional as well as non-conventional domains, has compelled nations to reconfigure their offensive and defensive plans. Drones eliminate the need for pilots in the air or to put ground troops in danger of being killed or kidnapped.

A tactical element to the technology was announced by Russia on March 1, 2018. It said it was developing a nuclear-armed underwater drone. Ever since there have been reports of the US and China joining the race in this sphere.

SkyGuardian

Unmanned drone operated remotely by two pilots

Flight duration: Can fly for up to 40 hours

Over the Horizon Satcom: Global satellite communications

High Definition EO/IR: Full motion video

Lynx Multi-Mode Radar: provides high-resolution photographic-quality imagery.

This high-performance system can capture images of the target in all types of weather like snow, rain, dust and smog.

This high-performance system can capture images of the target in all types of weather like snow, rain, dust and smog. This model is also able to withstand severe environmental conditions.

Wingspan: 24 metre

Payload capacity: Nine external hardpoints (8 wings and 1 centreline)

can carry a maximum weight of 2155 kg

can carry a maximum weight of 2155 kg Internal payloads: 363 kg

Other important feature

Detect and Avoid System Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR)

Electronic Warfare

Over-the-Horizon Targeting

Long-Range Strategic ISR

Other operations

Humanitarian Assistance/Disaster Relief

Search and Rescue

Law Enforcement

Border Enforcement

SeaGuardian

Another multi-domain remotely piloted aircraft system is the Sea Guardian.

This model is the maritime variant of Sky Guardian

This model is the maritime variant of Sky Guardian Sonobuoy monitoring system: 4 wingspans stations that can carry sonobuoy dispenser pods

Tracking: Can identify, detect and track subsurface targets

Features

Anti-Surface Warfare (ASuW)

Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW)

HA/DR  Humanitarian Assistance/Disaster Relief

Search and Rescue

NEW DELHI: The history of war is full of instances where effective use of technology has been the dividing line between the victorious and vanquished. Revolutions in military warfare at various intervals have stimulated major shifts in tactics, strategy and employment of arms and equipment. The employment of Unmanned Aircraft Systems in conventional conflicts like in Nagorno-Karabakh (Azerbaijan-Armenia), the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war and the unconventional global war on terror, have tilted the balance in favour of drones. Where did it all begingoogletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); According to military historians, the first UAV called Ruston Proctor Aerial Target, was developed by the UK in 1916-17. Initially used as a surveillance platform, its potential for precision strikes was soon realised. US-based General Atomics first developed the MQ-1 Predator as a reconnaissance platform. By and by, it was modified into a strike drone by attaching a Hellfire missile payload. Ever since the expansion in drone technology has been mind-boggling. The Predator India initiated the process to buy 31 armed MQ-9B High Altitude Long Endurance (HALE) UAVs from General Atomics during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent visit to the US. General Atomics will also establish a Comprehensive Global MRO (maintenance, repair and operations) facility in India to support the country's long-term goals of indigenous production. The MQ-9Bs can loiter up to 50,000 ft, remain airborne for over 35 hours and carry four Hellfire missiles besides around 450 kg of other bombs. The formal process to purchase it began with the Defence Acquisition Council on June 15, clearing the Acceptance of Necessity of 31 MQ-9Bs (16 Sky Guardian and 15 Sea Guardian) for the tri-services through the Foreign Military Sale route. The US government has suggested a total estimated ticket price of $3,072 million. Though there has been some political noise over its cost to the exchequer, the final price will be negotiated after regulatory clearance from the US government. Why India needs MQ-9Bs Given Indias geopolitical position, active borders with Pakistan, the prevalence of terrorism, and the ongoing stand-offs with China, the country needs a suitable policy framework that includes a robust counter-drone component considering the increasing number of incidents along the international border. The affordability and utility of drones have made them a platform of choice even for non-state actors. Indias UAV requirements at present are mostly met from imports of the Heron I, the Searcher Mk II and the Harop loitering munition from Israel. They have been deployed to monitor activities along the volatile borders with China and Pakistan. Indigenisation so far India has a fairly wide basket of prototypes to indigenise production of UAVs but none has been integrated into the service so far. The prototypes include Defence Research and Development Organisation's (DRDO) Imperial Eagle, Aeronautical Development Establishment Laboratory and CSIRs National Aerospace Laboratories' Golden Hawk, National Aerospace Laboratory's Slybird and NAL/ADE's Pushpak. HALs Combat Air Teaming System, too, is in the development phase. The DRDO is also working on the Abhyas and Lakshya target drones. Autonomous underwater vehicles for anti-submarine warfare are another category of drones, for which the process of Indian acquisition began in March this year. Besides, the DRDO is working on developing Submarine Launched Unmanned Aerial Systems. Indias quest for drones started in 1990 with a DRDO project to build the Nishant UAV. Four of them were built but the Indian Army was not satisfied with its performance. Later, a wheeled version of Nishant called Panchi, was developed but not inducted. The Indian army is in collaboration with the Drone Federation of India to develop a Him Drone-a-thon, which is a pan-India connection with all stakeholders, including the industry, academia, software developers and drone product manufacturers. It will be conducted in stages with quantifiable parameters (like altitude, weight, range, endurance etc) being progressively enhanced based on demonstrated capabilities. The way ahead Drones introduced a dramatic transformation in warfare in the last decade of the 21st century. The threat of drones, in conventional as well as non-conventional domains, has compelled nations to reconfigure their offensive and defensive plans. Drones eliminate the need for pilots in the air or to put ground troops in danger of being killed or kidnapped. A tactical element to the technology was announced by Russia on March 1, 2018. It said it was developing a nuclear-armed underwater drone. Ever since there have been reports of the US and China joining the race in this sphere. SkyGuardian Unmanned drone operated remotely by two pilots Flight duration: Can fly for up to 40 hours Over the Horizon Satcom: Global satellite communications High Definition EO/IR: Full motion video Lynx Multi-Mode Radar: provides high-resolution photographic-quality imagery. This high-performance system can capture images of the target in all types of weather like snow, rain, dust and smog. This model is also able to withstand severe environmental conditions. Wingspan: 24 metre Payload capacity: Nine external hardpoints (8 wings and 1 centreline) can carry a maximum weight of 2155 kg Internal payloads: 363 kg Other important feature Detect and Avoid System Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) Electronic Warfare Over-the-Horizon Targeting Long-Range Strategic ISR Other operations Humanitarian Assistance/Disaster Relief Search and Rescue Law Enforcement Border Enforcement SeaGuardian Another multi-domain remotely piloted aircraft system is the Sea Guardian. This model is the maritime variant of Sky Guardian Sonobuoy monitoring system: 4 wingspans stations that can carry sonobuoy dispenser pods Tracking: Can identify, detect and track subsurface targets Features Anti-Surface Warfare (ASuW) Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW) HA/DR  Humanitarian Assistance/Disaster Relief Search and Rescue
By PTI

KOLKATA: A Trinamool Congress (TMC) worker was killed late on Saturday night and several other members of the ruling party and opposition outfits were injured in clashes in panchayat poll-bound West Bengal, police said.

The TMC worker, identified as 52-year-old Jiyarul Molla, was shot dead in the Phulmalancha area in Basanti in South 24 Parganas district while he was returning home, a police officer said.

The man was taken to a local hospital, where doctors declared him brought dead.

A local Indian Secular Front (ISF) leader claimed that Molla, who was a close associate of TMC leader Amarul Laskar, was a victim of infighting within the ruling party.

Molla's daughter Manwara, who is a TMC candidate in Kathalberia gram panchayat, also alleged that her father had complained to the police about frequent threats from a rival faction which asked him to quit politics but the law enforcers did not take any action.

"I am a first-time candidate. My candidature is not liked by another local faction at the party.I demand a high-level probe into the incident," she told reporters.

Local TMC MLA Saokat Molla said the police should probe the matter and take prompt action against whoever is responsible.

With the fresh death, 10 people have been killed so far in West Bengal in poll-related violence since the filing of nominations for the rural elections began on June 9, according to police reports.

Meanwhile, at least 10 people were injured in clashes between CPI(M) and ISF supporters on one side and those of the TMC on the other in Paschim Medinipur district on Sunday, police said.

The incident took place in the Krishnapur area in Chandrakona in the morning after the TMC members tried to erect party flags, and faced resistance from opposition activists.

The 10 injured people, who belong to both camps, have been admitted to hospitals, where they are undergoing treatment, another police officer said, adding that their condition is stated to be stable.

"A large contingent of police team has been deployed on the spot," he added.

The police did not mention the number of people detained or arrested after the clashes.

In another incident, Ibrahim Mollah, TMC candidate in Chaltaberia gram panchayat, was seriously injured when he was thrashed and stabbed allegedly by ISF activists while he was returning home in the Bhangar area in South 24 Parganas on Sunday night after campaigning, police said.

TMC leader Saokat Molla alleged that ISF's Bhangar MLA Naushad Siddique was behind the attack as he wanted to unleash a "reign of terror" in the area.

Siddique, however, denied the charge, while counter-alleging that the TMC was threatening and intimidating ISF workers in villages.

"Villagers are rising against the atrocities and 'bomb culture' of the TMC and that is not being liked by the gang patronised by Shaukat Mollah.

The ISF believes in peaceful movement by people, not violence," he added.

Around 5.67 crore people are eligible to cast their votes in the three-tier panchayat elections in the state on July 8 for nearly 74,000 seats in zilla parishads, panchayat samiti and gram panchayats.

KOLKATA: A Trinamool Congress (TMC) worker was killed late on Saturday night and several other members of the ruling party and opposition outfits were injured in clashes in panchayat poll-bound West Bengal, police said. The TMC worker, identified as 52-year-old Jiyarul Molla, was shot dead in the Phulmalancha area in Basanti in South 24 Parganas district while he was returning home, a police officer said. The man was taken to a local hospital, where doctors declared him brought dead.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); A local Indian Secular Front (ISF) leader claimed that Molla, who was a close associate of TMC leader Amarul Laskar, was a victim of infighting within the ruling party. Molla's daughter Manwara, who is a TMC candidate in Kathalberia gram panchayat, also alleged that her father had complained to the police about frequent threats from a rival faction which asked him to quit politics but the law enforcers did not take any action. "I am a first-time candidate. My candidature is not liked by another local faction at the party.I demand a high-level probe into the incident," she told reporters. Local TMC MLA Saokat Molla said the police should probe the matter and take prompt action against whoever is responsible. With the fresh death, 10 people have been killed so far in West Bengal in poll-related violence since the filing of nominations for the rural elections began on June 9, according to police reports. Meanwhile, at least 10 people were injured in clashes between CPI(M) and ISF supporters on one side and those of the TMC on the other in Paschim Medinipur district on Sunday, police said. The incident took place in the Krishnapur area in Chandrakona in the morning after the TMC members tried to erect party flags, and faced resistance from opposition activists. The 10 injured people, who belong to both camps, have been admitted to hospitals, where they are undergoing treatment, another police officer said, adding that their condition is stated to be stable. "A large contingent of police team has been deployed on the spot," he added. The police did not mention the number of people detained or arrested after the clashes. In another incident, Ibrahim Mollah, TMC candidate in Chaltaberia gram panchayat, was seriously injured when he was thrashed and stabbed allegedly by ISF activists while he was returning home in the Bhangar area in South 24 Parganas on Sunday night after campaigning, police said. TMC leader Saokat Molla alleged that ISF's Bhangar MLA Naushad Siddique was behind the attack as he wanted to unleash a "reign of terror" in the area. Siddique, however, denied the charge, while counter-alleging that the TMC was threatening and intimidating ISF workers in villages. "Villagers are rising against the atrocities and 'bomb culture' of the TMC and that is not being liked by the gang patronised by Shaukat Mollah. The ISF believes in peaceful movement by people, not violence," he added. Around 5.67 crore people are eligible to cast their votes in the three-tier panchayat elections in the state on July 8 for nearly 74,000 seats in zilla parishads, panchayat samiti and gram panchayats.
By PTI

GOPESHWAR (U'khand): A 56-year-old ex-serviceman who was sitting on a day-long hunger strike as part of a group to demand benefits under the 'One Rank, One Pension' died at the protest site here on Sunday, police said.

Shiv Singh Bisht was sitting on a one-day hunger strike with fellow ex-service personnel at the district magistrate's office in Chamoli.

According to information from the office of the Superintendent of Police (Chamoli), Bisht's health deteriorated during the hunger strike and meeting on the Collectorate premises.

He was taken to the district hospital where doctors declared him brought dead, the police said.

Ex-service personnel have been agitating to press for their 16-point list of demands, including the 'One Rank, One Pension'.

Virendra Singh, president of the Chamoli District Ex-Servicemen League Organization, said Bisht's death was a sad incident for his family and the organisation.

GOPESHWAR (U'khand): A 56-year-old ex-serviceman who was sitting on a day-long hunger strike as part of a group to demand benefits under the 'One Rank, One Pension' died at the protest site here on Sunday, police said. Shiv Singh Bisht was sitting on a one-day hunger strike with fellow ex-service personnel at the district magistrate's office in Chamoli. According to information from the office of the Superintendent of Police (Chamoli), Bisht's health deteriorated during the hunger strike and meeting on the Collectorate premises.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); He was taken to the district hospital where doctors declared him brought dead, the police said. Ex-service personnel have been agitating to press for their 16-point list of demands, including the 'One Rank, One Pension'. Virendra Singh, president of the Chamoli District Ex-Servicemen League Organization, said Bisht's death was a sad incident for his family and the organisation.
By Express News Service

PATNA: A Uzbekistan national was arrested from the Indo-Nepal border in Bihar's Sitamarhi district for allegedly trying to enter Indian territory from Nepal without a valid passport and other travel-related documents.

According to the police, a car driver, Mohammad Aarish in whose vehicle the Uzbekistan national travelled from Kathmandu, has been detained for interrogation.

Superintendent of Police (SP), Sitamarhi, Manoj Kumar Tiwari said the Uzbekistan national identified as Khalil Mukhtorov was crossing the Indo-Nepal border near the Sonbarsa border check post.

Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) personnel who were on a routine vehicle check-up stopped the car.

Himanshu Rathod, commandant of SSB, 51st battalion said the man was nabbed when he tried to enter India from Nepal without a valid passport. He was detained at the border check post and subsequently,

officials of intelligence agencies were alerted.

According to a statement from the Bihar police, altogether 35 foreign nationals hailing from 11 countries have been arrested from the districts close to the Indo-Nepal border for their involvement in illegal activities since January.

The countries whose citizens have been arrested by the police include Nepal, Sudan, Myanmar, Russia, Check Republic, Tibet (China), Uganda (East Africa), Uzbekistan, Nigeria, Bangladesh and the United States of America, the statement read.

It said 20 foreign nationals were detained while trying to cross the international border and enter Indian territory. Six foreigners were arrested for being involved in the smuggling of gold. Four others were held for violating prohibition law. Police said cases were lodged under relevant sections of the IPC and the Foreign National Act and further investigations are underway.

PATNA: A Uzbekistan national was arrested from the Indo-Nepal border in Bihar's Sitamarhi district for allegedly trying to enter Indian territory from Nepal without a valid passport and other travel-related documents. According to the police, a car driver, Mohammad Aarish in whose vehicle the Uzbekistan national travelled from Kathmandu, has been detained for interrogation. Superintendent of Police (SP), Sitamarhi, Manoj Kumar Tiwari said the Uzbekistan national identified as Khalil Mukhtorov was crossing the Indo-Nepal border near the Sonbarsa border check post. Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) personnel who were on a routine vehicle check-up stopped the car.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); Himanshu Rathod, commandant of SSB, 51st battalion said the man was nabbed when he tried to enter India from Nepal without a valid passport. He was detained at the border check post and subsequently, officials of intelligence agencies were alerted. According to a statement from the Bihar police, altogether 35 foreign nationals hailing from 11 countries have been arrested from the districts close to the Indo-Nepal border for their involvement in illegal activities since January. The countries whose citizens have been arrested by the police include Nepal, Sudan, Myanmar, Russia, Check Republic, Tibet (China), Uganda (East Africa), Uzbekistan, Nigeria, Bangladesh and the United States of America, the statement read. It said 20 foreign nationals were detained while trying to cross the international border and enter Indian territory. Six foreigners were arrested for being involved in the smuggling of gold. Four others were held for violating prohibition law. Police said cases were lodged under relevant sections of the IPC and the Foreign National Act and further investigations are underway.
Ketan Narotttam Tanna By

Express News Service

NEW DELHI: On June 23, at the White House alongside President Joe Biden, Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke about India joining a space pact called the Artemis Accords during his visit to the US.

By deciding to join the Artemis Accords, we have taken a significant leap forward in our space cooperation. In fact, when it comes to the partnership between India and America, even the sky is not the limit, he said.

To understand the leap Modi was talking about, its important to figure out why the Artemis Accords are such a big deal. For starters, they are a series of agreements aimed at establishing guidelines for the exploration and utilisation of celestial bodies such as the Moon, Mars, other planets and asteroids. One of their primary objectives is to put humans on the Moon by 2025. India is the 27th country to sign the nonbinding accords.

What are the Artemis Accords?

Artemis, named after the Greek Moon goddess, represents a comprehensive agreement drawn up by the US to bring together nations that share a common vision for civil space exploration. It serves as a framework for cooperation and collaboration in space exploration, building upon the foundation of the Outer Space Treaty of 1967. The Artemis Accords were jointly launched by the United States Department of State and NASA on October 13, 2020. Signatories to the agreement include Australia, Canada, Italy, Japan, Luxembourg, the United Arab Emirates, the United Kingdom, and the United States.

The principles of the Artemis Accords include peaceful exploration, full transparency in space activity, including public release of scientific data, interoperability of systems to enhance safety and sustainability, emergency assistance to personnel in distress, preserving outer space heritage, extracting and utilising space resources in compliance with the Outer Space Treaty, and the safe disposal of orbital debris.

Think of them as the space variant of the UN-led Conference of the Parties (COP) framework to save Earth from destruction due to human greed. Artemis is an attempt to avert that dire situation in outer space and all celestial bodies.

Origins of the Accords

The inception of the Artemis programme can be traced back to the discontinuation of the Constellation programme, which aimed to transport astronauts to the International Space Station (ISS) after the space shuttles were retired. When Constellation came to an end, Artemis emerged as its successor.

Artemis represents the most ambitious space exploration endeavour undertaken by the US since the final manned spaceflight of NASAs space shuttle in 2011. In the interim, NASA astronauts relied on the Russian Soyuz spacecraft and the privately-developed SpaceX Dragon spacecraft for space access.

The Outer Space Treaty

The Outer Space Treaty, based on which the Artemis Accords are built, is a multilateral pact under the United Nations. It serves as the foundation for the international space law and became effective on October 10, 1967. Currently, 113 countries are parties to the treaty, including all major space-faring nations.

Outer space, the treaty underlined, is meant for all of mankind and cannot be subject to any national appropriation. It barred countries from not only placing nuclear warheads or other weapons of mass destruction in orbit or on celestial bodies, it asked them to avoid contaminating space in any way. The treaty also said it would hold space-faring nations liable for any damage caused by their space objects. Astronauts, it went on to say, shall be regarded as the envoys of mankind.

Difference between OST & Artemis

The differences between Artemis and the Outer Space Treaty lie in their nature and governing bodies. The Outer Space Treaty is a multilateral agreement overseen by the United Nations, while the Artemis is a US initiative. Artemis has a specific objective of reintroducing humans to the Moon and establishing a long-term sustainable presence. It intends to achieve this goal through a strategic combination of crewed missions, robotic systems, and collaborations with international partners.

Artemis will be the broadest and most diverse international human space exploration program in history, and the Artemis Accords are the vehicle that will establish this singular global coalition, said NASA when the accords were launched in 2020.

Camping on the Moon

One of the primary goals of the Artemis Accords is to resume human missions to the Moon and establish a regular sequence of crewed missions to it - about once a year. NASA plans to set up an Artemis Base Camp on the Moon  a habitat designed to support astronauts in their lunar activities.

The Artemis Base Camp would have various components, including a modern lunar cabin, a versatile rover, and a mobile home tailored to meet the astronauts requirements. Initially, the missions will involve shorter stays on the lunar surface. However, as the base camp evolves, the ultimate objective is to enable crew members to reside on the Moon for extended durations of up to two months at a time.

Whats in it for the country?

NASA and the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) have committed to developing a strategic framework for human spaceflight cooperation by the end of this year. It will facilitate access of Indian astronauts to the International Space Station (ISS). NASA has already announced it will provide advanced training to Indian astronauts at the Johnson Space Center in Houston, Texas, to prepare them for the ISS in 2024. A set of Indian astronauts shortlisted for the countrys first space mission, Gaganyaan, have already had a training stint in Russia.

The collaboration between ISRO and NASA holds immense potential for technological advancements in manned missions. By joining the Artemis Accords, ISRO gains access to valuable technologies and opportunities for scientific and technological advancements. Collaboration with NASA would enable knowledge-sharing, technology transfer and enhance Indias space exploration efforts.

The joint mission to the ISS in 2024 coupled with the Gaganyaan human module flights would set the stage for India to raise its space aspirations. ISROs preparations for the Gaganyaan mission would benefit from NASAs involvement, allowing for more ambitious missions and expanded capabilities. This partnership fosters collaboration, knowledge-sharing, and technology transfer, propelling both agencies towards new frontiers in space exploration.

Mike Gold, Chief Growth Officer at Redwire Space and a former NASA official who played a key role in developing the Accords in 2020, sees India becoming its signatory as a transformative moment. In an interview with Spacenews.com, he expressed confidence in Indias ongoing lunar and Martian exploration initiatives, highlighting the forthcoming launch of Chandrayaan-3 on July 13, 2023. Chandrayaan-3 will have a lander on the Moon and a rover but no orbiter.

Indias inclusion in the Artemis Accords would propel it to the forefront of human space exploration, allowing it to benefit from technological advancements and capabilities that emerge during this extraordinary voyage of exploration, Gold said. He also emphasised the reciprocal advantage, stating Artemis would significantly benefit from Indias capacity for innovation and its ability to execute missions cost-effectively.

Remember, the total cost of Indias successful Mars mission  in its very first attempt  was Rs 450 crore (USD 73 million), as compared to the USD 100 million spent to make the Hollywood movie Gravity. It gave the country bragging rights for making its mission the most cost-effective in the world.

NEW DELHI: On June 23, at the White House alongside President Joe Biden, Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke about India joining a space pact called the Artemis Accords during his visit to the US. By deciding to join the Artemis Accords, we have taken a significant leap forward in our space cooperation. In fact, when it comes to the partnership between India and America, even the sky is not the limit, he said. To understand the leap Modi was talking about, its important to figure out why the Artemis Accords are such a big deal. For starters, they are a series of agreements aimed at establishing guidelines for the exploration and utilisation of celestial bodies such as the Moon, Mars, other planets and asteroids. One of their primary objectives is to put humans on the Moon by 2025. India is the 27th country to sign the nonbinding accords.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); What are the Artemis Accords? Artemis, named after the Greek Moon goddess, represents a comprehensive agreement drawn up by the US to bring together nations that share a common vision for civil space exploration. It serves as a framework for cooperation and collaboration in space exploration, building upon the foundation of the Outer Space Treaty of 1967. The Artemis Accords were jointly launched by the United States Department of State and NASA on October 13, 2020. Signatories to the agreement include Australia, Canada, Italy, Japan, Luxembourg, the United Arab Emirates, the United Kingdom, and the United States. The principles of the Artemis Accords include peaceful exploration, full transparency in space activity, including public release of scientific data, interoperability of systems to enhance safety and sustainability, emergency assistance to personnel in distress, preserving outer space heritage, extracting and utilising space resources in compliance with the Outer Space Treaty, and the safe disposal of orbital debris. Think of them as the space variant of the UN-led Conference of the Parties (COP) framework to save Earth from destruction due to human greed. Artemis is an attempt to avert that dire situation in outer space and all celestial bodies. Origins of the Accords The inception of the Artemis programme can be traced back to the discontinuation of the Constellation programme, which aimed to transport astronauts to the International Space Station (ISS) after the space shuttles were retired. When Constellation came to an end, Artemis emerged as its successor. Artemis represents the most ambitious space exploration endeavour undertaken by the US since the final manned spaceflight of NASAs space shuttle in 2011. In the interim, NASA astronauts relied on the Russian Soyuz spacecraft and the privately-developed SpaceX Dragon spacecraft for space access. The Outer Space Treaty The Outer Space Treaty, based on which the Artemis Accords are built, is a multilateral pact under the United Nations. It serves as the foundation for the international space law and became effective on October 10, 1967. Currently, 113 countries are parties to the treaty, including all major space-faring nations. Outer space, the treaty underlined, is meant for all of mankind and cannot be subject to any national appropriation. It barred countries from not only placing nuclear warheads or other weapons of mass destruction in orbit or on celestial bodies, it asked them to avoid contaminating space in any way. The treaty also said it would hold space-faring nations liable for any damage caused by their space objects. Astronauts, it went on to say, shall be regarded as the envoys of mankind. Difference between OST & Artemis The differences between Artemis and the Outer Space Treaty lie in their nature and governing bodies. The Outer Space Treaty is a multilateral agreement overseen by the United Nations, while the Artemis is a US initiative. Artemis has a specific objective of reintroducing humans to the Moon and establishing a long-term sustainable presence. It intends to achieve this goal through a strategic combination of crewed missions, robotic systems, and collaborations with international partners. Artemis will be the broadest and most diverse international human space exploration program in history, and the Artemis Accords are the vehicle that will establish this singular global coalition, said NASA when the accords were launched in 2020. Camping on the Moon One of the primary goals of the Artemis Accords is to resume human missions to the Moon and establish a regular sequence of crewed missions to it - about once a year. NASA plans to set up an Artemis Base Camp on the Moon  a habitat designed to support astronauts in their lunar activities. The Artemis Base Camp would have various components, including a modern lunar cabin, a versatile rover, and a mobile home tailored to meet the astronauts requirements. Initially, the missions will involve shorter stays on the lunar surface. However, as the base camp evolves, the ultimate objective is to enable crew members to reside on the Moon for extended durations of up to two months at a time. Whats in it for the country? NASA and the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) have committed to developing a strategic framework for human spaceflight cooperation by the end of this year. It will facilitate access of Indian astronauts to the International Space Station (ISS). NASA has already announced it will provide advanced training to Indian astronauts at the Johnson Space Center in Houston, Texas, to prepare them for the ISS in 2024. A set of Indian astronauts shortlisted for the countrys first space mission, Gaganyaan, have already had a training stint in Russia. The collaboration between ISRO and NASA holds immense potential for technological advancements in manned missions. By joining the Artemis Accords, ISRO gains access to valuable technologies and opportunities for scientific and technological advancements. Collaboration with NASA would enable knowledge-sharing, technology transfer and enhance Indias space exploration efforts. The joint mission to the ISS in 2024 coupled with the Gaganyaan human module flights would set the stage for India to raise its space aspirations. ISROs preparations for the Gaganyaan mission would benefit from NASAs involvement, allowing for more ambitious missions and expanded capabilities. This partnership fosters collaboration, knowledge-sharing, and technology transfer, propelling both agencies towards new frontiers in space exploration. Mike Gold, Chief Growth Officer at Redwire Space and a former NASA official who played a key role in developing the Accords in 2020, sees India becoming its signatory as a transformative moment. In an interview with Spacenews.com, he expressed confidence in Indias ongoing lunar and Martian exploration initiatives, highlighting the forthcoming launch of Chandrayaan-3 on July 13, 2023. Chandrayaan-3 will have a lander on the Moon and a rover but no orbiter. Indias inclusion in the Artemis Accords would propel it to the forefront of human space exploration, allowing it to benefit from technological advancements and capabilities that emerge during this extraordinary voyage of exploration, Gold said. He also emphasised the reciprocal advantage, stating Artemis would significantly benefit from Indias capacity for innovation and its ability to execute missions cost-effectively. Remember, the total cost of Indias successful Mars mission  in its very first attempt  was Rs 450 crore (USD 73 million), as compared to the USD 100 million spent to make the Hollywood movie Gravity. It gave the country bragging rights for making its mission the most cost-effective in the world.
By PTI

KOLKATA: A Trinamool Congress (TMC) worker was killed and a Congress activist shot at in separate incidents of violence ahead of the July 8 panchayat polls in West Bengal, police said on Sunday.

The TMC worker, identified as 52-year-old Jiyarul Molla, was shot dead in the Phulmalancha area in Basanti in South 24 Parganas district late on Saturday night when he was returning home, a police officer said.

In another incident at Samserganj in Murshidabad district on Sunday night, Congress worker Arif Seikh was seriously injured after being shot at by unidentified men, another police officer said.

Seikh was taken to the Jangipur Hospital after he was shot at during an altercation with some people when he was campaigning for local panchayat candidate, the officer said, adding that his condition was critical.

As news of the attack on Seikh surfaced, Congress workers blocked roads in different parts of Samserganj, disrupting vehicular movement for several hours.

Samserganj Block Congress president B Seikh alleged that the TMC was "behind the unprovoked firing incident" and said party workers would again demonstrate on Monday.

However, the TMC denied the charge, asserting that the firing incident occurred "due to rivalry" and it has "nothing to do with politics".

In the Basanti incident, a local Indian Secular Front (ISF) leader claimed that the deceased, who was a close associate of TMC leader Amarul Laskar, was a "victim of infighting within the ruling party".

Molla's daughter Manwara, who is a TMC candidate in Kathalberia gram panchayat, also alleged that her father had complained to the police about "frequent threats" from a rival faction which asked him to quit politics but the "law enforcers did not take any action".

"I am a first-time candidate. My candidature is not liked by another local faction in the party. I demand a high-level probe into the murder of my father," she told reporters.

Local TMC MLA Saokat Molla said the police will probe the matter and take prompt action against whoever is responsible.

With the fresh death, 10 people have been killed so far in rural poll-related violence in West Bengal since the filing of nominations began on June 9, according to police reports.

Meanwhile, at least 10 people were injured in clashes between CPI(M) and ISF supporters on one side and those of the TMC on the other in Paschim Medinipur district on Sunday, police said.

The incident took place in the Krishnapur area in Chandrakona in the morning after TMC members tried to put up party flags and faced resistance from opposition activists.

The 10 injured people, who belong to both camps, have been admitted to hospitals, where they are undergoing treatment, another police officer said, adding that their condition is stated to be stable.

In another incident, Ibrahim Mollah, a TMC candidate in Chaltaberia gram panchayat, was seriously injured when he was thrashed and stabbed allegedly by ISF activists on Saturday night, the police said.

The incident occurred when he was returning home in the Bhangar area in South 24 Parganas after campaigning, the officer said.

TMC leader Saokat Molla alleged that ISF's Bhangar MLA Naushad Siddique was "behind the attack" as he wanted to unleash a "reign of terror" in the area.

Siddique, however, dismissed the charge and alleged that the TMC was "threatening and intimidating ISF workers" in villages.

"Villagers are protesting against the atrocities and 'bomb culture' of the TMC. These protests are not being liked by the gang patronised by the ruling party leader. The ISF believes in peaceful movement by people, not violence," he added.

Around 5.67 crore people are eligible to cast their votes in the three-tier panchayat elections in the state on July 8 for nearly 74,000 seats in zilla parishads, panchayat samitis and gram panchayats.

KOLKATA: A Trinamool Congress (TMC) worker was killed and a Congress activist shot at in separate incidents of violence ahead of the July 8 panchayat polls in West Bengal, police said on Sunday. The TMC worker, identified as 52-year-old Jiyarul Molla, was shot dead in the Phulmalancha area in Basanti in South 24 Parganas district late on Saturday night when he was returning home, a police officer said. In another incident at Samserganj in Murshidabad district on Sunday night, Congress worker Arif Seikh was seriously injured after being shot at by unidentified men, another police officer said.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); Seikh was taken to the Jangipur Hospital after he was shot at during an altercation with some people when he was campaigning for local panchayat candidate, the officer said, adding that his condition was critical. As news of the attack on Seikh surfaced, Congress workers blocked roads in different parts of Samserganj, disrupting vehicular movement for several hours. Samserganj Block Congress president B Seikh alleged that the TMC was "behind the unprovoked firing incident" and said party workers would again demonstrate on Monday. However, the TMC denied the charge, asserting that the firing incident occurred "due to rivalry" and it has "nothing to do with politics". In the Basanti incident, a local Indian Secular Front (ISF) leader claimed that the deceased, who was a close associate of TMC leader Amarul Laskar, was a "victim of infighting within the ruling party". Molla's daughter Manwara, who is a TMC candidate in Kathalberia gram panchayat, also alleged that her father had complained to the police about "frequent threats" from a rival faction which asked him to quit politics but the "law enforcers did not take any action". "I am a first-time candidate. My candidature is not liked by another local faction in the party. I demand a high-level probe into the murder of my father," she told reporters. Local TMC MLA Saokat Molla said the police will probe the matter and take prompt action against whoever is responsible. With the fresh death, 10 people have been killed so far in rural poll-related violence in West Bengal since the filing of nominations began on June 9, according to police reports. Meanwhile, at least 10 people were injured in clashes between CPI(M) and ISF supporters on one side and those of the TMC on the other in Paschim Medinipur district on Sunday, police said. The incident took place in the Krishnapur area in Chandrakona in the morning after TMC members tried to put up party flags and faced resistance from opposition activists. The 10 injured people, who belong to both camps, have been admitted to hospitals, where they are undergoing treatment, another police officer said, adding that their condition is stated to be stable. In another incident, Ibrahim Mollah, a TMC candidate in Chaltaberia gram panchayat, was seriously injured when he was thrashed and stabbed allegedly by ISF activists on Saturday night, the police said. The incident occurred when he was returning home in the Bhangar area in South 24 Parganas after campaigning, the officer said. TMC leader Saokat Molla alleged that ISF's Bhangar MLA Naushad Siddique was "behind the attack" as he wanted to unleash a "reign of terror" in the area. Siddique, however, dismissed the charge and alleged that the TMC was "threatening and intimidating ISF workers" in villages. "Villagers are protesting against the atrocities and 'bomb culture' of the TMC. These protests are not being liked by the gang patronised by the ruling party leader. The ISF believes in peaceful movement by people, not violence," he added. Around 5.67 crore people are eligible to cast their votes in the three-tier panchayat elections in the state on July 8 for nearly 74,000 seats in zilla parishads, panchayat samitis and gram panchayats.
By Online Desk

EDifying or UnEDifying? That is for you to decide. But the fact remains that the Chanakya of realpolitik, Sharad Pawar, was on Sunday categorical in stating the headline-grabbing rebellion in his Nationalist Congress Party, which he termed a robbery, was prompted by fears of Enforcement Directorate (ED) raids and arrests.

"I want to give the credit for this to PM Modi. Two days ago, he had made statements and after that statement, some people started feeling uneasy, some of them were also facing ED actions," the 83-year-old veteran was quoted as saying.

Sharad Pawar being Sharad Pawar did not let it stay at that. He said that the decision to make his nephew Ajit Pawar the deputy CM and many others ministers has made it "clear that all the charges have been cleared". "I am thankful to him (PM Modi)," he added, tongue-firmly-in-cheek.

The senior Pawar specifically named Ajit Pawar, Chhagan Bhujbal, Dilip Walse-Patil and Hasan Mushrif as being among the leaders cowed down by the fear of looming arrests. Notably, Ajit Pawar, Bhujbal and Praful Patel, another prominent leader who has shifted allegiance, already have pending ED cases against them.

Sharad Pawar's statements come a little less than a month after Tamil Nadu CM MK Stalin accused Enforcement Directorate (ED) sleuths of harassing Tamil Nadu minister V Senthil Balaji relentlessly before the latter's arrest -- harassment that Stalin charged sent Balaji to the ICU.

Governor RN Ravi had recently ordered the dismissal of Balaji before retracting it reportedly after Union home minister Amit Shah advised him to do so. Unlike Balaji who possibly faces a long fight to clear his name, Ajit Pawar by deserting the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) and joining the Eknath Shinde-led BJP government, has now earned himself the right to be the third engine in what CM Eknath Shinde has termed his all-new "triple-engine" sarkar.

The ED had earlier submitted a chargesheet in the Maharashtra State Cooperative (MSC) Bank scam in which it had attached the properties of a sugar mill linked to Ajit Pawar and his wife Sunetra. However, according to reports even before Sunday's surprising and fast-paced developments, Ajit and his wife's names were later dropped from the ED chargesheet.

Maha dramas of this nature are presently the new reality.

The way Eknath Shinde and his faction toppled the Uddhav Thackeray-led government involved resort politics and allegations of horsetrading and pressure from Central agencies. Rajasthan CM Ashok Gehlot had put a figure to the sums exchanged in such horsetrading sessions -- Rs 35 crore in 2022, the year Shinde became CM.

"The BJP's acts are weakening democracy. They topple state governments and form their own government after buying MLAs. Using the money received through electoral bonds, they buy MLAs just like people buy goats from bakra mandis during Eid," Gehlot had said then.

Ajit Pawar's 'rebellion' is a follow-up act in that script, which had seen Shinde's crowning on July 3, 2022, in Maharashtra. The new deputy CM has assumed office on another July day -- July 2, 2023. Beware the start of July may be the cry going around in opposition circles now.

EDifying or UnEDifying? That is for you to decide. But the fact remains that the Chanakya of realpolitik, Sharad Pawar, was on Sunday categorical in stating the headline-grabbing rebellion in his Nationalist Congress Party, which he termed a robbery, was prompted by fears of Enforcement Directorate (ED) raids and arrests. "I want to give the credit for this to PM Modi. Two days ago, he had made statements and after that statement, some people started feeling uneasy, some of them were also facing ED actions," the 83-year-old veteran was quoted as saying. Sharad Pawar being Sharad Pawar did not let it stay at that. He said that the decision to make his nephew Ajit Pawar the deputy CM and many others ministers has made it "clear that all the charges have been cleared". "I am thankful to him (PM Modi)," he added, tongue-firmly-in-cheek. googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); The senior Pawar specifically named Ajit Pawar, Chhagan Bhujbal, Dilip Walse-Patil and Hasan Mushrif as being among the leaders cowed down by the fear of looming arrests. Notably, Ajit Pawar, Bhujbal and Praful Patel, another prominent leader who has shifted allegiance, already have pending ED cases against them. Sharad Pawar's statements come a little less than a month after Tamil Nadu CM MK Stalin accused Enforcement Directorate (ED) sleuths of harassing Tamil Nadu minister V Senthil Balaji relentlessly before the latter's arrest -- harassment that Stalin charged sent Balaji to the ICU. Governor RN Ravi had recently ordered the dismissal of Balaji before retracting it reportedly after Union home minister Amit Shah advised him to do so. Unlike Balaji who possibly faces a long fight to clear his name, Ajit Pawar by deserting the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) and joining the Eknath Shinde-led BJP government, has now earned himself the right to be the third engine in what CM Eknath Shinde has termed his all-new "triple-engine" sarkar. The ED had earlier submitted a chargesheet in the Maharashtra State Cooperative (MSC) Bank scam in which it had attached the properties of a sugar mill linked to Ajit Pawar and his wife Sunetra. However, according to reports even before Sunday's surprising and fast-paced developments, Ajit and his wife's names were later dropped from the ED chargesheet. Maha dramas of this nature are presently the new reality. The way Eknath Shinde and his faction toppled the Uddhav Thackeray-led government involved resort politics and allegations of horsetrading and pressure from Central agencies. Rajasthan CM Ashok Gehlot had put a figure to the sums exchanged in such horsetrading sessions -- Rs 35 crore in 2022, the year Shinde became CM. "The BJP's acts are weakening democracy. They topple state governments and form their own government after buying MLAs. Using the money received through electoral bonds, they buy MLAs just like people buy goats from bakra mandis during Eid," Gehlot had said then. Ajit Pawar's 'rebellion' is a follow-up act in that script, which had seen Shinde's crowning on July 3, 2022, in Maharashtra. The new deputy CM has assumed office on another July day -- July 2, 2023. Beware the start of July may be the cry going around in opposition circles now.
BEIJING, July 2 (Xinhua) -- China's National Meteorological Center on Sunday renewed a yellow alert for high temperatures as heatwaves are expected to scorch vast parts of the country.

During daylight hours on Sunday, temperatures in parts of Beijing, Tianjin, Hebei, Henan, Shandong, Inner Mongolia, Liaoning, Hubei, Hunan, Jiangxi, Guangxi, Guangdong, and Fujian are forecast to exceed 35 degrees Celsius, according to the center.

In some areas, temperatures may climb to as high as 37 to 39 degrees Celsius during the same period, according to the forecast.

The center has advised people to avoid outdoor activities in the afternoon and suggested that workers exposed to high temperatures adopt necessary protective measures.

China has a three-tier weather warning system for high temperatures, with red representing the most severe warning, followed by orange and yellow. 
By PTI

BENGALURU: Senior BJP leader B S Yediyurappa on Sunday left for New Delhi after being summoned by the party's top leadership amidst a delay in electing the Leader of Opposition in the Karnataka Legislative Assembly.

Though the BJP stalwart, who is the BJP parliamentary board member, expressed ignorance over the reason for the call, party sources said he has been summoned to decide on the candidates for the posts of leader of the opposition as well as the party's state chief.

"BJP National president J P Nadda has summoned me to New Delhi. I don't know what the subject is," Yediyurappa told reporters here.

He said, "I will go there, talk to him and if possible, I will return by tonight because a massive protest by thousands has been planned for day-after-tomorrow. So I will try to return by tonight or tomorrow morning."

Asked whether he has been called to New Delhi to discuss the appointment of LoP, Yediyurappa said he was not aware.

"After talking to him, I will get to know what is running in his mind. I don't have any clue why he has summoned me," the former CM said.

To a query about the lobbying in the party for the two top posts, Yediyurappa said only the national leaders would take a call on such matters.

"Many people demand many things. Our national leaders will decide. Since he (Nadda) has called me, I will go there and talk to him," he added.

Regarding the BJP's agitation on Tuesday, Yediyurappa said a massive protest will be organised against the ruling Congress for its "failure" to fulfill its election promises.

"It has been decided to protest the failure of the state government. Thousands of people will participate. I will also take part in it," he added.

With just one day left for the budget session of the assembly to start, the BJP is yet to finalise its leader of opposition.

There is a stiff contest in the saffron party in the state for these two prime posts.

There are many frontrunners for the role of opposition leader, sources in the BJP said.

Among them are former Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai, former ministers Araga Jnanendra, R Ashoka and Vijayapura MLA Basanagouda Patil Yatnal.

Recently, former Minister V Somanna had expressed his desire to become the BJP state president.

The incumbent Nalin Kumar Kateel said although his term got over a year ago he was continuing in the post due to the assembly elections.

Now, the decision on his replacement would be made by the party high command, he said.

According to party sources, the BJP legislative party meeting to elect their leader, which was scheduled for today has been cancelled.

"Today there is no meeting of the BJP legislative party. We expect that the leader of opposition will be decided by tomorrow (Monday) afternoon," a senior BJP leader told PTI.

Meanwhile, the Congress mocked the BJP's indecisiveness to finalise the leader of opposition.

In a tweet on Saturday, the party posted a picture of a chair with a caption which read, "Advertisement -- Urgently needed. A suitable person for the vacant post of leader of opposition of Karnataka assembly is required."

BENGALURU: Senior BJP leader B S Yediyurappa on Sunday left for New Delhi after being summoned by the party's top leadership amidst a delay in electing the Leader of Opposition in the Karnataka Legislative Assembly. Though the BJP stalwart, who is the BJP parliamentary board member, expressed ignorance over the reason for the call, party sources said he has been summoned to decide on the candidates for the posts of leader of the opposition as well as the party's state chief. "BJP National president J P Nadda has summoned me to New Delhi. I don't know what the subject is," Yediyurappa told reporters here.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); He said, "I will go there, talk to him and if possible, I will return by tonight because a massive protest by thousands has been planned for day-after-tomorrow. So I will try to return by tonight or tomorrow morning." Asked whether he has been called to New Delhi to discuss the appointment of LoP, Yediyurappa said he was not aware. "After talking to him, I will get to know what is running in his mind. I don't have any clue why he has summoned me," the former CM said. To a query about the lobbying in the party for the two top posts, Yediyurappa said only the national leaders would take a call on such matters. "Many people demand many things. Our national leaders will decide. Since he (Nadda) has called me, I will go there and talk to him," he added. Regarding the BJP's agitation on Tuesday, Yediyurappa said a massive protest will be organised against the ruling Congress for its "failure" to fulfill its election promises. "It has been decided to protest the failure of the state government. Thousands of people will participate. I will also take part in it," he added. With just one day left for the budget session of the assembly to start, the BJP is yet to finalise its leader of opposition. There is a stiff contest in the saffron party in the state for these two prime posts. There are many frontrunners for the role of opposition leader, sources in the BJP said. Among them are former Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai, former ministers Araga Jnanendra, R Ashoka and Vijayapura MLA Basanagouda Patil Yatnal. Recently, former Minister V Somanna had expressed his desire to become the BJP state president. The incumbent Nalin Kumar Kateel said although his term got over a year ago he was continuing in the post due to the assembly elections. Now, the decision on his replacement would be made by the party high command, he said. According to party sources, the BJP legislative party meeting to elect their leader, which was scheduled for today has been cancelled. "Today there is no meeting of the BJP legislative party. We expect that the leader of opposition will be decided by tomorrow (Monday) afternoon," a senior BJP leader told PTI. Meanwhile, the Congress mocked the BJP's indecisiveness to finalise the leader of opposition. In a tweet on Saturday, the party posted a picture of a chair with a caption which read, "Advertisement -- Urgently needed. A suitable person for the vacant post of leader of opposition of Karnataka assembly is required."
By PTI

CHENNAI: AIADMK General Secretary Edappadi K Palaniswami on Sunday lashed out at the ruling Congress in Karnataka and the DMK in Tamil Nadu over the neighbouring state pushing for the construction of the contentious Mekedatu reservoir and the Stalin-led government not putting up a resistance to protect the interests of the state.

Palaniswami especially came down hard on Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M K Stalin, charging him with not fiercely opposing Karnataka Deputy CM D K Shivakumar's assertion that the balancing reservoir would be built on river Cauvery at Mekedatu in the neighbouring state.

Tamil Nadu is opposed to the construction of the dam, saying its prospects will be hurt, and also insists that its consent is required to implement the project.

Palaniswami, Leader of the Opposition in the State Assembly, said that due to his previous government's efforts in 2018, the Mekedatu issue was never discussed in the meetings of the Cauvery Management Authority (CMA).

The CMA had said that Tamil Nadu's consent was required for the project, and the state would intervene in the matter as the reservoir is proposed to come up on the Cauvery river bed, he stated.

"Following this, the Mekedatu issue remained calm till May this year. But, after the Congress government came to Karnataka (in May), Deputy CM Shivakumar is blowing up the matter saying the dam will certainly be constructed," the AIADMK chief said in a statement.

He said that soon after the Congress formed the government in that state, Shivakumar had asked his officials to expedite the matter.

The deputy CM had recently written to the Union Jal Shakti Minister also on the issue, Palaniswami said.

"I had then itself expressed my strong criticism of the Karnataka government. Had the puppet chief minister Stalin of the DMK government given a befitting reply to Shivakumar then (in May when Shivakumar first flagged the matter), he would not have done so today," Palaniswami said in an apparent reference to the Karnataka leader raising the issue of the dam with the Centre.

Palaniswami alleged that the DMK "cedes Tamil Nadu's rights" whenever in power, and cited the Cauvery and Katchatheevu issues to buttress his claim.

He slammed Stalin for remaining "silent" over the Cauvery issue and demanded a strong response from him personally, besides urging him to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi along with the 38 Lok Sabha MPs belonging to the DMK-led coalition to prevent Karnataka from going ahead with the Mekedatu dam.

The AIADMK will go through the necessary struggles to prevent Tamil Nadu from "turning into a desert," the former chief minister added.

Mekedatu is a multi-purpose drinking water and power project proposed by Karnataka, which involves building a balancing reservoir near Kanakapura in Ramanagara district.

Tamil Nadu has been opposing the project, raising apprehensions that the state would be affected if the project takes shape.

The project, once completed, is aimed at ensuring drinking water supply to Bengaluru and neighbouring areas (4.75 TMC).

It also can generate 400 MW of power.

The estimated cost of the project is Rs 9,000 crore.

CHENNAI: AIADMK General Secretary Edappadi K Palaniswami on Sunday lashed out at the ruling Congress in Karnataka and the DMK in Tamil Nadu over the neighbouring state pushing for the construction of the contentious Mekedatu reservoir and the Stalin-led government not putting up a resistance to protect the interests of the state. Palaniswami especially came down hard on Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M K Stalin, charging him with not fiercely opposing Karnataka Deputy CM D K Shivakumar's assertion that the balancing reservoir would be built on river Cauvery at Mekedatu in the neighbouring state. Tamil Nadu is opposed to the construction of the dam, saying its prospects will be hurt, and also insists that its consent is required to implement the project.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); Palaniswami, Leader of the Opposition in the State Assembly, said that due to his previous government's efforts in 2018, the Mekedatu issue was never discussed in the meetings of the Cauvery Management Authority (CMA). The CMA had said that Tamil Nadu's consent was required for the project, and the state would intervene in the matter as the reservoir is proposed to come up on the Cauvery river bed, he stated. "Following this, the Mekedatu issue remained calm till May this year. But, after the Congress government came to Karnataka (in May), Deputy CM Shivakumar is blowing up the matter saying the dam will certainly be constructed," the AIADMK chief said in a statement. He said that soon after the Congress formed the government in that state, Shivakumar had asked his officials to expedite the matter. The deputy CM had recently written to the Union Jal Shakti Minister also on the issue, Palaniswami said. "I had then itself expressed my strong criticism of the Karnataka government. Had the puppet chief minister Stalin of the DMK government given a befitting reply to Shivakumar then (in May when Shivakumar first flagged the matter), he would not have done so today," Palaniswami said in an apparent reference to the Karnataka leader raising the issue of the dam with the Centre. Palaniswami alleged that the DMK "cedes Tamil Nadu's rights" whenever in power, and cited the Cauvery and Katchatheevu issues to buttress his claim. He slammed Stalin for remaining "silent" over the Cauvery issue and demanded a strong response from him personally, besides urging him to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi along with the 38 Lok Sabha MPs belonging to the DMK-led coalition to prevent Karnataka from going ahead with the Mekedatu dam. The AIADMK will go through the necessary struggles to prevent Tamil Nadu from "turning into a desert," the former chief minister added. Mekedatu is a multi-purpose drinking water and power project proposed by Karnataka, which involves building a balancing reservoir near Kanakapura in Ramanagara district. Tamil Nadu has been opposing the project, raising apprehensions that the state would be affected if the project takes shape. The project, once completed, is aimed at ensuring drinking water supply to Bengaluru and neighbouring areas (4.75 TMC). It also can generate 400 MW of power. The estimated cost of the project is Rs 9,000 crore.
Rajesh Asnani By

JAIPUR: Union Home Minister Amit Shahs trip to Udaipur on Friday delivered a powerful message to the Rajasthan BJP. Shah arrived in the Lake City to address a rally and the leader of the Opposition, Rajendra Rathore, was entrusted to manage the event. During the rally, after state party chief CP Joshis speech, Rathore wanted to invite the Union Home Minister to the stage. However, Shah signalled Rathore to invite former chief minister Vasundhara Raje before him.

This unexpected move has sparked intense speculation in political circles of the desert state, particularly fuelled by photographs showing Raje and Shah together in a car. The BJP has chosen not to declare a chief ministerial candidate for Rajasthan for the assembly polls due later this year. Instead, the party plans to rely on the popularity of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

However, recent developments suggest that the partys top leadership may be reconsidering this strategy. A sign of this shift was seen through Rajes prominent presence at PM Modis recent rally in Ajmer last month. During the previous elections in Rajasthan, the popular slogan was, Vasundhara is BJP and BJP is Vasundhara. Nevertheless, due to the perceived sidelining of Raje by the leadership in recent years, the party appeared badly divided, with various leaders vying for the coveted CM post. This internal strife has left party workers puzzled, unsure of which faction to align with. The differences among influential party leaders are seen in multiple party events.

In light of these circumstances, analysts believe that the BJPs top leadership is reluctant to continue with its present experiment in Rajasthan. Instead, they may opt to declare Vasundhara Raje as the Chief Ministerial face well in advance of the elections, as they have done in the past four elections.

This move could potentially reinvigorate Rajes political career, challenging the seemingly one-sided contest faced by the Congress. Both the parties should brace themselves for an intense poll battle in the days to come.

Two big public rallies of the BJP top brass in Rajasthan in the last two days have created a buzz about the return of former CM Vasundhara Raje to the centre stage of the party. The gestures shown by party president JP Nadda and Union Home Minister Amit Shah towards Vasundhara Raje in their public meetings at Bharatpur and Udaipur respectively have indicated that Raje may be the front-runner for the face of the party in the coming assembly elections of Rajasthan.

Rajes address on Friday also indicated that she was going to get prominence in the poll campaign of the party. She asked party workers to work hard for the elections and at the same time, warned them to not be overconfident. Ganga khud chal kar nahin aati hai (Ganga wont come to you on its own), said Raje to the workers.

In Bharatpur too, where Nadda came to address the public meeting on Thursday, Raje was given the chance to address the public just before Nadda. She came to the meeting with Nadda in his car and was given the due importance in the meeting. The videos of Shah and Raje have gone viral in Rajasthan and the political corridors of the state are busy speculating about the role Raje is expected to play in the coming days.

JAIPUR: Union Home Minister Amit Shahs trip to Udaipur on Friday delivered a powerful message to the Rajasthan BJP. Shah arrived in the Lake City to address a rally and the leader of the Opposition, Rajendra Rathore, was entrusted to manage the event. During the rally, after state party chief CP Joshis speech, Rathore wanted to invite the Union Home Minister to the stage. However, Shah signalled Rathore to invite former chief minister Vasundhara Raje before him. This unexpected move has sparked intense speculation in political circles of the desert state, particularly fuelled by photographs showing Raje and Shah together in a car. The BJP has chosen not to declare a chief ministerial candidate for Rajasthan for the assembly polls due later this year. Instead, the party plans to rely on the popularity of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. However, recent developments suggest that the partys top leadership may be reconsidering this strategy. A sign of this shift was seen through Rajes prominent presence at PM Modis recent rally in Ajmer last month. During the previous elections in Rajasthan, the popular slogan was, Vasundhara is BJP and BJP is Vasundhara. Nevertheless, due to the perceived sidelining of Raje by the leadership in recent years, the party appeared badly divided, with various leaders vying for the coveted CM post. This internal strife has left party workers puzzled, unsure of which faction to align with. The differences among influential party leaders are seen in multiple party events.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); In light of these circumstances, analysts believe that the BJPs top leadership is reluctant to continue with its present experiment in Rajasthan. Instead, they may opt to declare Vasundhara Raje as the Chief Ministerial face well in advance of the elections, as they have done in the past four elections. This move could potentially reinvigorate Rajes political career, challenging the seemingly one-sided contest faced by the Congress. Both the parties should brace themselves for an intense poll battle in the days to come. Two big public rallies of the BJP top brass in Rajasthan in the last two days have created a buzz about the return of former CM Vasundhara Raje to the centre stage of the party. The gestures shown by party president JP Nadda and Union Home Minister Amit Shah towards Vasundhara Raje in their public meetings at Bharatpur and Udaipur respectively have indicated that Raje may be the front-runner for the face of the party in the coming assembly elections of Rajasthan. Rajes address on Friday also indicated that she was going to get prominence in the poll campaign of the party. She asked party workers to work hard for the elections and at the same time, warned them to not be overconfident. Ganga khud chal kar nahin aati hai (Ganga wont come to you on its own), said Raje to the workers. In Bharatpur too, where Nadda came to address the public meeting on Thursday, Raje was given the chance to address the public just before Nadda. She came to the meeting with Nadda in his car and was given the due importance in the meeting. The videos of Shah and Raje have gone viral in Rajasthan and the political corridors of the state are busy speculating about the role Raje is expected to play in the coming days.
Yeshi Seli By

NEW DELHI: India and Pakistan exchanged the list of civilian prisoners and fishermen in each others custody, via diplomatic channels, simultaneously at New Delhi and Islamabad on Saturday. Under the provisions of the 2008 Agreement on Consular Access, such lists are exchanged every year on January 1 and July 1.

India has shared a list of 343 civilian prisoners and 74 fishermen in its custody, who are Pakistanis or are believed to be Pakistanis. Similarly, Pakistan has shared a list of 42 civilians and 266 fishermen, who are Indians or are believed to be.

The government has called for early release and repatriation of civilian prisoners, missing Indian defence personnel, and fishermen along with their boats, from Pakistans custody. Pakistan was asked to expedite the release and repatriation of 254 Indian fishermen and four Indian civilian prisoners, who have completed their sentence, according to the Ministry of External Affairs.

Pakistan has also been asked to provide immediate consular access to the remaining 12 fishermen and 14 civilian prisoners in its custody, who are believed to be Indians. Pakistan has been requested to ensure the safety, security and welfare of all Indian civilians and fishermen in custody and those who are believed to be Indians, pending their repatriation.

NEW DELHI: India and Pakistan exchanged the list of civilian prisoners and fishermen in each others custody, via diplomatic channels, simultaneously at New Delhi and Islamabad on Saturday. Under the provisions of the 2008 Agreement on Consular Access, such lists are exchanged every year on January 1 and July 1. India has shared a list of 343 civilian prisoners and 74 fishermen in its custody, who are Pakistanis or are believed to be Pakistanis. Similarly, Pakistan has shared a list of 42 civilians and 266 fishermen, who are Indians or are believed to be. The government has called for early release and repatriation of civilian prisoners, missing Indian defence personnel, and fishermen along with their boats, from Pakistans custody. Pakistan was asked to expedite the release and repatriation of 254 Indian fishermen and four Indian civilian prisoners, who have completed their sentence, according to the Ministry of External Affairs. googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); Pakistan has also been asked to provide immediate consular access to the remaining 12 fishermen and 14 civilian prisoners in its custody, who are believed to be Indians. Pakistan has been requested to ensure the safety, security and welfare of all Indian civilians and fishermen in custody and those who are believed to be Indians, pending their repatriation.
Namita Bajpai By

LUCKNOW: Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath directed the authorities concerned to speed up the development work, ensuring quality and timeliness of the projects for public interest.

Presiding over a high-level department meeting, on Friday night, CM Yogi reviewed the updated status of approvals issued by the state government in relation to the budgetary provisions in the financial year 2023-24, the amount allocated by the head of the department and the amount received from the Government of India relative to the target.

The CM said that with the completion of the first quarter of financial year 2023-24, proper expenditure of the funds provided in the current budget should be ensured by all the departments. Allocation and expenditure are expected to accelerate. Expenditure should also be reviewed at the department

level. The ministers concerned should review their depart -mental status.

He laid emphasis on the plan to set up digital libraries in gram panchayats and urban wards.

LUCKNOW: Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath directed the authorities concerned to speed up the development work, ensuring quality and timeliness of the projects for public interest. Presiding over a high-level department meeting, on Friday night, CM Yogi reviewed the updated status of approvals issued by the state government in relation to the budgetary provisions in the financial year 2023-24, the amount allocated by the head of the department and the amount received from the Government of India relative to the target. The CM said that with the completion of the first quarter of financial year 2023-24, proper expenditure of the funds provided in the current budget should be ensured by all the departments. Allocation and expenditure are expected to accelerate. Expenditure should also be reviewed at the department level. The ministers concerned should review their depart -mental status.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); He laid emphasis on the plan to set up digital libraries in gram panchayats and urban wards.
Preetha Nair By

NEW DELHI: A Congress Parliamentary Strategy Group meeting chaired by UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi here on Saturday reiterated the partys position that the 22nd Law Commissions decision to seek public opinion on a Uniform Civil Code (UCC) represents the governments desperation to continue with its agenda of polarization and diversion from its failures.

The party will examine the issue after the government comes up with a UCC draft.The meeting also discussed the key issues that will be taken up during the monsoon session of Parliament, which begins on July 20. Many leaders, including Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge, Shashi Tharoor, Digvijay Singh, Jairam Ramesh, Salman Khurshid and Pramod Tiwari attended the meeting.

We stated our stand on UCC on June 15th after the Law Commission issued a public notice. When there is a draft or a discussion, we will participate and examine the issue. Right now, we only have the commissions notice, said Jairam Ramesh.

The meeting came ahead of a Standing Committee meeting of Law and Justice on July 3 to seek the views of the members of the Law Ministry, Law Commission, and other stakeholders on UCC.

In its June 15 statement, the party said, The real reason is that the 21st Law Commission after carrying out a detailed and comprehensive review of the subject observed that it is neither necessary nor desirable at this stage to have a UCC. said the statement.

While speculation is rife that the government may table the bill on UCC in the upcoming session of Parliament, some of the Opposition parties like Uddhavs Shiv Sena and the Aam Aadmi Party are not on the same page. They have extended qualified support to it. The divergent positions of the opposition parties will be advantageous to BJP at a time when the parties are set to meet for the second time in Bangalore on July 14.

NEW DELHI: A Congress Parliamentary Strategy Group meeting chaired by UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi here on Saturday reiterated the partys position that the 22nd Law Commissions decision to seek public opinion on a Uniform Civil Code (UCC) represents the governments desperation to continue with its agenda of polarization and diversion from its failures. The party will examine the issue after the government comes up with a UCC draft.The meeting also discussed the key issues that will be taken up during the monsoon session of Parliament, which begins on July 20. Many leaders, including Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge, Shashi Tharoor, Digvijay Singh, Jairam Ramesh, Salman Khurshid and Pramod Tiwari attended the meeting. We stated our stand on UCC on June 15th after the Law Commission issued a public notice. When there is a draft or a discussion, we will participate and examine the issue. Right now, we only have the commissions notice, said Jairam Ramesh.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); The meeting came ahead of a Standing Committee meeting of Law and Justice on July 3 to seek the views of the members of the Law Ministry, Law Commission, and other stakeholders on UCC. In its June 15 statement, the party said, The real reason is that the 21st Law Commission after carrying out a detailed and comprehensive review of the subject observed that it is neither necessary nor desirable at this stage to have a UCC. said the statement. While speculation is rife that the government may table the bill on UCC in the upcoming session of Parliament, some of the Opposition parties like Uddhavs Shiv Sena and the Aam Aadmi Party are not on the same page. They have extended qualified support to it. The divergent positions of the opposition parties will be advantageous to BJP at a time when the parties are set to meet for the second time in Bangalore on July 14.
Ejaz Kaiser By

RAIPUR: With the support of tribals seen as crucial by political parties, defence minister Rajnath Singh on Saturday asserted that the deciding factor behind creating a separate state of Chhattisgarh by the then

Atal Bihari Vajpayee government was done keeping in mind the welfare of the tribal communities and giving them their due rights.

Addressing a public meeting at tribal-dominated Kanker district, about 150 km south of Raipur, Singh said, Adivasis left behind by hundreds of years needed to be taken along on the path of development and growth. For this very reason, the Jharkhand state too was carved out. Congress has ruled the country for a very long time but never created any state intended for the welfare of tribal communities. Its the BJP that also created a separate ministry of tribal welfare.

Have you ever thought that a daughter from a tribal community can reach the highest constitutional post to become the President. The Modi government for the first time in the history of India earmarked separate budgetary allocation of Rs 90,000 crore for the development of tribal communities.

RAIPUR: With the support of tribals seen as crucial by political parties, defence minister Rajnath Singh on Saturday asserted that the deciding factor behind creating a separate state of Chhattisgarh by the then Atal Bihari Vajpayee government was done keeping in mind the welfare of the tribal communities and giving them their due rights. Addressing a public meeting at tribal-dominated Kanker district, about 150 km south of Raipur, Singh said, Adivasis left behind by hundreds of years needed to be taken along on the path of development and growth. For this very reason, the Jharkhand state too was carved out. Congress has ruled the country for a very long time but never created any state intended for the welfare of tribal communities. Its the BJP that also created a separate ministry of tribal welfare. Have you ever thought that a daughter from a tribal community can reach the highest constitutional post to become the President. The Modi government for the first time in the history of India earmarked separate budgetary allocation of Rs 90,000 crore for the development of tribal communities.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); });
Pranab Mondal By

KOLKATA: Amid continuing violence ahead of the panchayat elections claiming 11 lives since June 9 and allegations of opposition parties accusing the TMC of unleashing terror, the State Election Commission (SEC) issued a notification revealing its plan to use the Central Armed Paramilitary Force (CAPF) on the day of the rural polls on July 8, without mentioning whether central force personnel will guard the polling booths, a demand raised by oppositions.

The BJP, the principal opposition of the TMC, alleged it was a state poll panels ploy to help the ruling party in those booths where saffron camps candidates are contesting. In the notification, the SEC mentioned CAPF shall be deployed for area domination, Naka Checking, confidence building measures, international or inter-state check points and for patrolling etc.

CAPF shall especially be deployed in the places for patrolling, route marches and other confidence building measures where political violence, complaints of intimidation or threat have been received by Commission or Districts and Police administration. CAPF shall invariably be used as mobile force covering the entire district, the notification mentions.

BJPs state president Sukanta Majumdar said the notification reflects the conspiracy to loot votes in the rural polls. The SEC is working at the behest of the ruling party and the poll panels notification using the utilisation of the CAPF is a reflection of it. After forcing our many candidates to withdraw nominations, the ruling TMC is not planning to manipulate the poll process in those booths where our candidates are contesting. We demanded for the deployment of CAPF in every booth on several occasion, he said.

The saffron camps 46,404 candidates have joined the rural poll fray where a total number of around 74,000 candidates will contest the panchayat elections. The Left front fielded over 44,000 candidates in the upcoming rural polls. Following a high-pitched drama in the Calcutta High Court and Supreme Court, the decision of deployment of the CAPF was taken.

KOLKATA: Amid continuing violence ahead of the panchayat elections claiming 11 lives since June 9 and allegations of opposition parties accusing the TMC of unleashing terror, the State Election Commission (SEC) issued a notification revealing its plan to use the Central Armed Paramilitary Force (CAPF) on the day of the rural polls on July 8, without mentioning whether central force personnel will guard the polling booths, a demand raised by oppositions. The BJP, the principal opposition of the TMC, alleged it was a state poll panels ploy to help the ruling party in those booths where saffron camps candidates are contesting. In the notification, the SEC mentioned CAPF shall be deployed for area domination, Naka Checking, confidence building measures, international or inter-state check points and for patrolling etc. CAPF shall especially be deployed in the places for patrolling, route marches and other confidence building measures where political violence, complaints of intimidation or threat have been received by Commission or Districts and Police administration. CAPF shall invariably be used as mobile force covering the entire district, the notification mentions.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); BJPs state president Sukanta Majumdar said the notification reflects the conspiracy to loot votes in the rural polls. The SEC is working at the behest of the ruling party and the poll panels notification using the utilisation of the CAPF is a reflection of it. After forcing our many candidates to withdraw nominations, the ruling TMC is not planning to manipulate the poll process in those booths where our candidates are contesting. We demanded for the deployment of CAPF in every booth on several occasion, he said. The saffron camps 46,404 candidates have joined the rural poll fray where a total number of around 74,000 candidates will contest the panchayat elections. The Left front fielded over 44,000 candidates in the upcoming rural polls. Following a high-pitched drama in the Calcutta High Court and Supreme Court, the decision of deployment of the CAPF was taken.
Shruti Kakkar and Dilip Singh Kshatriya By

NEW DELHI/ AHMEDABAD: Social activist Teesta Setalvad late on Saturday night got some relief after a three-member special bench of the Supreme Court stayed for seven days a Gujarat High Court fiat directing her to surrender immediately in a criminal case related to the 2002 Gujarat riots.

Before that, there was a lot of courtroom drama as a two-judge special bench of the SC had differed on granting her interim protection.

The matter then went to the three-judge special bench of the SC comprising B R Gawai, A S Bopanna and Dipankar Datta, which stayed the HC order.

In the division bench, Justice A S Oka expressed his intention to grant her protection by asking the state to place on record that no coercive action would be taken against her. However, Justice Prashant Kumar Mishra was reluctant. They then referred the matter to Chief Justice of India D Y Chandrachud, asking him to constitute a three-judge bench to hear the bail plea.

READ MORE: 'I felt fear and loneliness', activist Teesta Setalvad recounts time spent in jail

There is a disagreement between us on the question of grant of interim protection. So we request the Chief Justice to assign this matter to a larger bench, the bench said.

Justice Oka was of the view that the high court should have given some breathing time for her to surrender and for the matter to be placed before the top court.

The SC granted Teesta interim bail on Sept 2, 2022. Justice Oka said, The court (HC) could have granted at least breathing time so that it could have been considered by the SC. Heavens wont fall if you say that you will not take any action until Tuesday.

Appearing for the Gujarat government, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta said Teesta was not entitled to interim protection since she took the system for a ride.

HC order

Gujarat High Court judge Nirzar Desai had directed petitioner Teesta Setalvad to surrender immediately

NEW DELHI/ AHMEDABAD: Social activist Teesta Setalvad late on Saturday night got some relief after a three-member special bench of the Supreme Court stayed for seven days a Gujarat High Court fiat directing her to surrender immediately in a criminal case related to the 2002 Gujarat riots. Before that, there was a lot of courtroom drama as a two-judge special bench of the SC had differed on granting her interim protection. The matter then went to the three-judge special bench of the SC comprising B R Gawai, A S Bopanna and Dipankar Datta, which stayed the HC order.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); In the division bench, Justice A S Oka expressed his intention to grant her protection by asking the state to place on record that no coercive action would be taken against her. However, Justice Prashant Kumar Mishra was reluctant. They then referred the matter to Chief Justice of India D Y Chandrachud, asking him to constitute a three-judge bench to hear the bail plea. READ MORE: 'I felt fear and loneliness', activist Teesta Setalvad recounts time spent in jail There is a disagreement between us on the question of grant of interim protection. So we request the Chief Justice to assign this matter to a larger bench, the bench said. Justice Oka was of the view that the high court should have given some breathing time for her to surrender and for the matter to be placed before the top court. The SC granted Teesta interim bail on Sept 2, 2022. Justice Oka said, The court (HC) could have granted at least breathing time so that it could have been considered by the SC. Heavens wont fall if you say that you will not take any action until Tuesday. Appearing for the Gujarat government, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta said Teesta was not entitled to interim protection since she took the system for a ride. HC order Gujarat High Court judge Nirzar Desai had directed petitioner Teesta Setalvad to surrender immediately
A local troupe member wearing the mask of a monster celebrates the Eid al-Adha festival at Al-Maazbah village in Ibb Province, Yemen, on July 1, 2023. (Photo by Mohammed Mohammed/Xinhua)



SANAA, July 2 (Xinhua) -- The sound of drums and tambourines fills the air as local theatrical troupe members wearing outlandish masks walk along the roads between villages in the southern Yemeni province of Ibb.

Villagers follow the troupe joyously as they were entertained by the uproarious antics and jests of the masked performers.

This is the way how for centuries villagers in the Al-Maazbah District of Ibb have celebrated Eid al-Adha, one of the most important festivals for Muslims across the world.

A local troupe member wearing the mask of a monster celebrates the Eid al-Adha festival at Al-Maazbah village in Ibb Province, Yemen, on July 1, 2023. (Photo by Mohammed Mohammed/Xinhua)



These customs have been passed down through generations, reflecting the strong bonds within local communities. At the core of the traditions is the practice of "mutual visits," symbolizing unity and togetherness during the holiday season.

During the Eid Al-Adha holiday, many villagers visit neighboring villages to sing songs and perform traditional dances. They are accompanied by local troupes donning strange attire and wearing masks that resemble monsters and mythical creatures. These performers, known as the "prince of the feast," are very good at filling the procession with playful banter and laughter.

"The good-natured skirmishes among masked jesters are all part of the revelry," said Abraheem al-Fareh, a local villager. "'The prince of the feast' has the power to entertain as he pleases, without causing annoyance or displeasure," he added.

Yemeni villagers banter with local troupe members wearing masks of monsters to celebrate the Eid al-Adha festival at Al-Maazbah village in Ibb Province, Yemen, on July 1, 2023. (Photo by Mohammed Mohammed/Xinhua)



A warm and grand welcome is extended to the visitors upon their arrival at the neighboring village. Drums are beaten in the background as dances and traditional chants and songs are performed. The festivities culminate at the village's central parade ground, where the visitors are embraced with open arms.

This visit is reciprocated the next day, as the host villagers perform the same ritual by paying a visit to those who had visited them.

"This celebration is a treasured inheritance from our ancestors. It fosters a sense of kinship, camaraderie, and delight," al-Fareh said.

Such celebrations have special meaning for the villagers, who consider them a vital part of their community during Eid al-Adha. Even those who have been engrossed in their own pursuits and spent most of the year in far-off cities and regions will travel back to their villages for the Eid al-Adha holiday, demonstrating their dedication to their roots and shared heritage.

Local villagers hope similar customs could flourish in other parts of Yemen to foster social unity.

"The tradition gives all of us an unforgettable experience. It reminds us how good it feels to be friendly and kind to others, especially when our country is divided by war," al-Fareh added.

Yemen's civil war flared in late 2014 when the Houthi group seized control over much of the country's north and forced the internationally-recognized government out of the capital Sanaa.

The war has not only brought an immense humanitarian crisis to the Arab country but also separated many families and communities.

According to the United Nations, 4.5 million Yemenis, or 14 percent of the population, have been forced to flee their homes because of the conflict.

"Our steadfast hold onto the Eid al-Adha tradition is a testament to the indomitable spirit and unwavering resilience of the Yemeni people," al-Fareh said. 
NIA, police forces of Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh to fight jointly against organised crime

Chandigarh, June 30: The National Investigation Agency (NIA), in collaboration with the Police Forces of Haryana, Punjab and Chandigarh, on Friday announced the establishment of a collective institutionalised mechanism for real-time as well as regular information sharing and coordinated action & operations against the gangster eco-system in the northern region, said an official press statement on Friday.

NIA, police forces of Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh to fight jointly against organised crime

They also decided to set up a 'Joint Listing Committee', with representative officers from the NIA and the three Police forces, to list out and map the entire network of the various criminal syndicates active in the northern states and UT. It was further decided to hold monthly meetings of all the stakeholders to address the issue of organised crimes and criminals in these areas, a press statement added.These decisions were taken at a high-level Inter-State coordination meeting held in Panchkula, Haryana, under the chairmanship of NIA Director General, Dinkar Gupta. The meeting discussed the activities of leaders and members of organized criminal syndicates/groups operating in the northern states, and also the ongoing investigations in the various criminal cases connected with them, read the press statement further.This was the second such meeting steered by the NIA DG for tackling the menace of organised criminal terror syndicates. The DG had initiated these meetings to collectively deal with such syndicates through sharing of findings and inputs among the various police agencies and forces.Underscoring the need for collaborative action in combating organised crime, Sh. Dinkar Gupta called for enhanced cooperation and information sharing among the NIA, Punjab Police, Chandigarh Police, and Haryana Police to effectively address the growing threat posed by these criminal syndicates, particularly in the northern region, reads the press statement.NIA, which is investigating three such cases against criminal terror syndicate, shared its findings and observations on the methodology adopted by the syndicates operating from jails. It emphasised the need for fast-tracking of trials against these gangsters as an effective tool to tackle the problem, along with the need for a witness protection plan.DGP Haryana PK Agrawal underlined the urgency of taking swift and decisive action to dismantle the networks of these criminal syndicates, disrupt their activities, and ensure justice. He reassured the participants that the Haryana Police was fully committed to supporting and actively participating in the coordinated efforts to combat organized crime. DGP Punjab Gaurav Yadav emphasized that international liaison and cooperation with LEAs in foreign countries is essential to extradite and deport active leaders and members based abroad in various countries, mentioned the press statement.DGP Chandigarh Praveer Ranjan highlighted close inter-State coordination and joint operations between Police forces of affected States as the Criminal Syndicates were operating all over including Chandigarh.Interventions required at both the structural level, as well as the operational level to dismantle the terror syndicate's ecosystem, were discussed threadbare, and it was decided to formulate an institutionalised mechanism for the timely sharing of actionable inputs with all the stakeholders, added the press statement.The growing nexus between criminals and gangsters, with their inter-state linkages and conflicts, has become a cause for concern for the northern states. The foot soldiers, recruits, harbourers etc of these criminal gangster syndicates are spread across the states of north India, requiring a coordinated and synergised effort by the police of different states to deal with them effectively.Representatives from various agencies presented their findings and insights into the ongoing investigations during the meeting. Officials from the NIA, Haryana Police, Punjab Police, and Chandigarh Police made presentations and shared valuable information regarding the operations, modus operandi, and key individuals associated with these criminal syndicates, read the press statement further.Following the presentations, a detailed and constructive discussion took place among senior officers from all participating agencies. The focus of the discussion revolved around devising strategies to disrupt the activities of organized criminal syndicates, strengthen intelligence-sharing mechanisms, and coordinate efforts to apprehend the individuals involved in these unlawful activities.ANI01 July 2023

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IMD predicts moderate to heavy rainfall in Mumbai, Palghar, Thane for next 3-4 days

Mumbai, July 1: India Meteorological Department (IMD) Mumbai has predicted moderate to heavy rainfall in the city and suburbs with the possibility of very heavy rainfall likely at isolated places in the districts of Mumbai, Thane and Palghar during the next 3-4 hours.

IMD predicts moderate to heavy rainfall in Mumbai, Palghar, Thane for next 3-4 days

IMD Mumbai said, "Nowcast warning issued at 800 am. Moderate to heavy rain in the city and suburbs with the possibility of very heavy rainfall likely at isolated places in the districts of Mumbai, Thane and Palghar during the next 3-4 hours."Earlier, an official statement from the IMD said, "Due to active monsoon conditions enhanced rainfall activity with heavy to very heavy rainfall is expected at a few places over parts of Konkan and adjoining ghat areas of Madhya Maharashtra during the next 2-3 days."According to the official release, the Konkan and Ghat regions of Maharashtra experienced extensive rainfall, with isolated areas receiving moderate to extremely heavy rainfall, while the monsoon remained active across most of these regions."Monsoon remained active over most parts of Konkan and Ghat areas of Madhya Maharashtra. They received widespread rainfall with heavy to very rainfall at isolated places. Extremely heavy falls also occurred at isolated places over parts of North Konkan on Thursday," the statement said.The IMD has also issued a caution to fishermen around the North Maharashtra coast not to travel along and off from June 29 to July 3.ANI01 July 2023

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Lotus Petal Foundation celebrates inclusion and diversity with an empowering event to commemorate Pride Month 2023

SRV Media, New Delhi, July 1 Lotus Petal Foundation, a leading institution committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse community today hosted its highly anticipated event, 'Celebrating Pride and Inclusivity' at Lotus Petal Senior Secondary School at Dhunela (Gurugram), aimed at celebrating the spirit of inclusivity and diversity during Pride Month.

Lotus Petal Foundation celebrates inclusion and diversity with an empowering event to commemorate Pride Month 2023

The event proved to be an enlightening and empowering experience for the 200+ workforce across all the verticals of Lotus Petal Foundation. This one-of-its-kind event was designed to honor and celebrate the LGBTQ+ community, promoting awareness, understanding, and acceptance amongst the staff, and the wider school community. The panel discussion explored a range of topics, such as the importance of inclusive education, promoting acceptance, and the challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals in society.Kushal Chakraborty, Founder, Lotus Petal Foundation shared, "In our journey of #Changinglives, One Child At A Time, through engaging in an open conversation, the institution aims to bridge gaps of understanding and nurturing a culture of acceptance and support at the workplace and all their campuses. Today was an inspiring and eye-opening conversation around the issues of the LGBTQ+ community. At Lotus Petal we work with all age groups from children, to teenagers, young adults, and adults. We will take affirmative action to make our entire organization more inclusive and be the change we wish to see in society".The esteemed panel was moderated by Co-Founder and Chief Transformation Officer, Saloni Bhardwaj, Key panelists included Maya Awasthy, Co-founder of Transgender Welfare Equity and Empowerment Trust (Tweet Foundation), Dr Kavita Arora, Co-Founder of Children First, a dedicated Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist and Kushal Chakravorty, Founder and Managing Trustee of Lotus Petal Foundation."For a school to take up this initiative is a big step. When the right to diversity and respect is introduced in children early with an intent to create equality, to respect there is no better place than school. Inclusion is not just about education, it's in the minds of the individuals'', said Dr Kavita Arora, Co-Founder of Children First, a dedicated Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist while speaking at the forum.Saloni Bhardwaj, Co-Founder and CTO, Lotus Petal Foundation added "To create a wholesome inclusive workplace it is very important for us to create awareness, as only after awareness will there be acceptance. Since we are a school it's most important for us to create a sense of empathy in our teachers and academic staff where such cases can be identified. Lotus Petal Foundation believes in creating an all-encompassing, diverse and inclusive workplace"Maya Awasthy, Co-founder of Transgender Welfare Equity and Empowerment Trust (Tweet Foundation), added "This has been a very innovative forum for me as it is for the first time I witnessed a campaign of this sort at a school level. This needs to be taken to various schools so that children can identify a safe space around them to come out in the open with the help of academic staff and counselors".The event created an empowering dialogue on How can schools effectively respond to instances of bullying or discrimination targeting LGBTQ+ students, what strategies can be employed to sensitize students, particularly those from underserved communities, about LGBTQ+ issues and foster acceptance in schools, How does an institution prepare, confront and promote inclusivity among students, How does an institution address bullying and harassment and take steps to prevent it and more.Lotus Petal Sr. Secondary School promoted by Lotus Petal Foundation, India, is a non-profit organization founded in 2011 to provide equal opportunities for underprivileged children living in the urban slums of Gurugram, Haryana, India. The Foundation has over 10 years of grassroots-level expertise in handling challenges faced by underprivileged children and transforming their lives through education.Media QueriesContact Shraddha - 9869100555Email(Disclaimer The above press release has been provided by SRV Media. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same)ANI01 July 2023

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Maldives government strongly condemns India Out protests

Male [Maldives], July 1: After the banned India Out campaign, the Maldives government has strongly condemned the disrespectful acts by the opposition parties during a demonstration held on Thursday, during the Eid festivities.

Maldives government strongly condemns 'India Out' protests

On Thursday, during its demonstrations in commemoration of Eid-Al-Adha, the opposition took to the streets, with "India Out" slogans and masks depicting Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's face.In the statement, the Maldivian government said that they "strongly condemn the disrespectful act by the opposition using face masks depicting Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the demonstrations held yesterday, and further denounces the attempts to spread false information through various platforms, using the so-called "India Out" slogan.""Such dishonourable acts by the opposition regarding one of Maldives' key bilateral partners and its leadership during Eid Al-Adha festivities, a time of peace joy and harmony, does not only provoke hatred but also promote hostility with the objective of tarnishing the country's long-standing cordial ties with India," it added.Highlighting that the strong bilateral relationship between the two neighbouring countries is based on shared historical and cultural ties matched by dynamic people-to-people contact, the ministry said that India has always been the closest ally and "trusted neighbour" of their country.The long-standing ties between both countries have been elevated to new heights during the past five years, with the strong commitment of the leadership of both countries. The Government appreciates India's "Neighbourhood First Policy" and Maldives reiterates upholding its "India First" policy and remains committed to cementing the close ties it shares with India.The Government of Maldives urges all parties to act responsibly and refrain from such disrespectful acts and spreading false information that undermines the country's relations with its neighbours and the international community, according to the statement.ANI01 July 2023

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TV BRICS hosts tour to Russia for media persons from BRICS, Africa

Moscow, July 1: A media team from BRICS nations and Africa will be touring Russia shortly to cover leading events on the international agenda.

TV BRICS hosts tour to Russia for media persons from BRICS, Africa

The event is being organised by the BRICS Media Association in cooperation with TV BRICS International Media Network and with grant support from the Gorchakov Fund.Among the participants of the BRICS Global Media Tour, Russian Edition are top managers of media companies, and partners of TV BRICS from Brazil, India, China, South Africa, Zimbabwe and Mozambique. They represent various types of media state and private TV stations, radio, and news agencies at national and regional levels.The media tour programme consists of several tracks -- educational, business and cultural. Within the business track, meetings with the leadership of the Ministry of Communications and Digital Development and the National Association of TV and Radio Broadcasters, as well as the business dialogue at the Moscow office of TV BRICS are planned.The educational track includes a series of conferences and expert sessions dedicated to the issues of journalism and media education, as well as multilateral cooperation between BRICS and Africa, which will take place at the Humanities Institute of Television and Radio Broadcasting - GITR named after MA Litovchin and the A Gorchakov Public Diplomacy Fund.Victoria Karsleyeva, deputy executive director of the Gorchakov Fund, said, "Strengthening cooperation within BRICS is an important area of work for all member countries of the association. Current developments show the need for closer information cooperation, and the increased interest in BRICS participation from different countries of the world only underscores the need for this vector of work".Janna Tolstikova, CEO of TV BRICS said, "It is important to note that the media tour is conducted at an expert level. Considering the composition of the delegates, we can expect an effective exchange of experience, active B2B communication, strengthening of existing and building of new business connections, planning of new joint media projects and taking practical decisions on further cooperation within the programme of the visit. For TV BRICS, it is also an opportunity to 'evolve' with our partners, to show them Russia not through content prepared by our Russian editorial office, but offline, to draw attention to a constructive information agenda including business cooperation, partnership in science and technology, education and culture".Russian Edition, involving visits to the main sights of Moscow and Kemerovo, as well as participation in a series of welcome events in the traditional Russian style, demonstrate the famous Russian hospitality. (ANI/TV BRICS)ANI01 July 2023

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Indian university introduces Dictionary of Buddhist Terms to promote Buddhist studies

Thimphu [Bhutan], July 1: The Dictionary of Buddhist Terms has been published by the Department of Pali and Buddhist Studies at Savitribai Phule Pune University (SPPU) in Pune, India, as a significant contribution to the academic community, reported The Bhutan Live.

Indian university introduces Dictionary of Buddhist Terms to promote Buddhist studies

This innovative multilingual dictionary uses Pali as the basis for its entries and offers translations into English, Sanskrit, and Tibetan. For academics interested in comparative Buddhist studies, each phrase is represented in Roman script and further supported by textual references.The media revealed intentions for this ambitious dictionary to eventually build a vast 50-part collection with the introduction of the third portion on March 9. This lexicographic masterpiece's first two parts were published last year, according to The Bhutan Live.The Bhutan Live covers Bhutan news, politics, Bhutan culture, Bhutanese Buddhism and more, for a unique understanding of the Himalayan region.Plans for the future also call for Chinese translations, paving the way for this lexicon to be acclaimed as the only bilingual dictionary in its field.Mahesh Deokar, the eminent professor who oversees the Department of Pali and Buddhist Studies, revealed upcoming plans to include the Chinese language. Deokar stated, "We are currently looking for a competent scholar to join our endeavour," and made further allusions to the dictionary perhaps being made available in Tibetan and Devanagari scripts.The team behind this monumental project includes Prof Deokar, Lata Deokar, Snehal Kondhalkar, and Prof Maheshwar Singh Negi. They initiated this venture two years ago with the intention to eventually cover the full spectrum of the Pali alphabet in their dictionary, as per The Bhutan Live.The dictionary currently has 100 words in each section, totalling 300 words that begin with the letter "A" in the first three sections. There will be at least 300 more words in the following section, according to the commitment.As stated by SPPU, the aim of this book is to track the changing semantics of Buddhist terminology over space and time, illuminating both the common and unique vocabulary between Pali and Sanskrit Buddhist traditions.In essence, the Dictionary of Buddhist Terms is intended to serve as a reference tool for academics conducting comparative analyses of various Buddhist practises, primarily employing Tibetan, Pali, and Sanskrit.The vice-chancellor of SPPU, Prof Nitin Karmalkar, who has worked extensively in Ladakh and has interacted with Buddhist monks, thinks the dictionary can reveal Tibetan literary masterpieces that are currently hidden away in a number of Ladakh monasteries, according to The Bhutan Live.Sanskrit expert and Vice-Chancellor of Deccan College Prof Prasad Joshi lauded the study for its significant contribution to lexicography. He has also spent years working on a Sanskrit dictionary. He emphasised the need for new lexicographers to be trained in order to save the craft from dying out and revealed a digital edition that would be available to academics all over the world.The Khyentse Foundation and Deshana, an Institute of Buddhist and Allied Studies, oversaw the launch of this multilingual dictionary project in June 2020.The Department of Pali and Buddhist Studies, earlier known as the Department of Pali, was found in July 2006. Before that, the Department of Sanskrit and Prakrit Languages offered courses in Pali and Buddhist studies. Currently, the Department is the only facility under SPPU's control where students can pursue various levels of study of Buddhist literature in Pali, Sanskrit, and Tibetan, The Bhutan Live reported.ANI01 July 2023

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Renowned doctors of Ahmedabad were felicitated on the occasion of Doctors Day

PNN, Ahmedabad, July 1 Kaushik Outdoors has always honored personalities over social welfare works.

Renowned doctors of Ahmedabad were felicitated on the occasion of Doctors Day

Recently they held an event honoring women on Women's Day as well. Apart from this, Kaushik Outdoors also distributed 5000 plants across Ahmedabad on the occasion of World Environment Day on 5th June to overcome environmental challenges.Now on the occasion of Doctor's Day which is on 1st July, a unique initiative was taken by Kaushik Outdoors. They put up hoardings in several areas across Ahmedabad to honor the talented doctors of Ahmedabad who have made their unprecedented contributions in the field of medical. Some of these doctors have also received the Padma Shri award.The day is dedicated to honoring doctors who dedicate their lives to the health and well-being of their patients. It is a day to acknowledge the significant contribution made by doctors to the society and to express gratitude for their hard work and dedication.Kaushikbhai Shah, Chairman, Kaushik Outdoors and Saket Shah, Managing Director, Kaushik Outdoors said, "We at Kaushik Outdoors have taken this initiative to honor doctors who have rendered their unprecedented service to the society. In the Covid Pandemic, doctors have treated the people of the society without caring about their own family. Doctor is God to every citizen. Doctors are always at the forefront of helping people, regardless of day or night. We want to salute them on this Doctor's Day."An unprecedented initiative has been taken by Kaushik Outdoors by putting up hoardings of doctors in Ahmedabad. This is almost the first time such an honor has been given in Gujarat. As many as 25 hoardings were put up in prime locations of Ahmedabad.Kaushik Outdoors integrates the scope of urban advertising with multi-media and highly targeted delivery for brands and products across Gujarat. They have set the stage to meet customer expectations with high impact mediums for out of home advertising in the form of hoardings, railway station promotions, transit boards and BRTS BQS. With total of 700 locations in Ahmedabad and over 1700 locations in Gujarat, Kaushik Outdoors has a huge customer reach.Similarly, Kaushik Outdoors remains engrossed in the hearts and minds of Gujarat and the people of Gujarat by doing such social activities.(Disclaimer The above press release has been provided by PNN. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same)ANI01 July 2023

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Macron postpones state visit to Germany amid unrest in France

Berlin [German], July 1: French President Emmanuel Macron has decided to postpone his state visit to Germany due to intense protests in France which erupted after the fatal police shooting of a teenager that has shocked the whole nation.

Macron postpones state visit to Germany amid unrest in France

The spokesperson for German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier said President Macron has asked that a planned state visit to Germany be moved to another date, DW News reported.According to Steinmeier's office, Macron asked for the postponement of his trip during a telephone conversation with the German counterpart on Saturday."Steinmeier regrets the cancellation and has the fullest understanding in view of the situation in our neighbouring country," his office said.The visit would be rescheduled as soon as possible, the German president's office said, DW News reported.Macron was supposed to arrive in Germany on Sunday and visit the cities of Ludwigsburg, Berlin and Dresden on Monday and Tuesday respectively.Prior to this, a state visit to France by Britain's King Charles III was postponed as the nation dealt with unrest over President Macron's decision to raise the retirement age, DW News reported.Notably, President Macron faced outrage for attending an Elton John concert on Wednesday, at a time when unrest was brewing over the country, CNN reported.Meanwhile, over 1300 people have been arrested following the violence that has been going on the fourth day of unrest.France's Interior Ministry said Saturday that 1,311 people had been detained following the fourth night of violence, an update on its previous figure. It said 2,560 fires had been reported on public roads, with 1,350 cars burned, and that there had been 234 incidents of damage or fire in buildings, CNN reported.Seventy-nine police and gendarmes were injured over the course of Friday night and there were 58 attacks on police and gendarme stations, the Ministry added.Two police officers suffered gunshot wounds in Vaulx-en-Velin, a suburb of Lyon, the Interior Ministry said, one to the nose and the other to the thigh, CNN reported.These developments take place after the death of the teenager, 17, identified as Nal after being stopped for a traffic violation in the Paris suburb town of Nanterre on Tuesday. The officer who is accused of shooting him was taken to jail.Footage of the incident filmed by a bystander showed two officers standing on the driver's side of the car, one of whom fired his gun at the driver despite not appearing to be in any immediate danger, according to CNN.The officer has said he fired his gun out of fear that the boy would run someone over with the car, according to Nanterre prosecutor Pascal Prache.The officer currently faces a formal investigation for voluntary homicide and has been placed in preliminary detention.On Friday, French Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin announced the "exceptional" mobilization of 45,000 police and gendarmes to avoid a fourth consecutive night of riots, CNN reported.Amid burning debris, "vengeance pour Nael" which translates to "revenge for Nael" appeared to be spray painted on a wall in Nanterre with regards to the slain teenager and using an alternative spelling of his name, the report said.A bank was set on fire in Nanterre and 15 people were taken in by police for questioning after a march was carried out in memory of the teenager became violent. Protesters threw fireworks at police officers in Marseille, CNN reported citing BFMTV.Six people were taken by police for questioning after they took part in a protest barred by authorities in Lille, the regional authority in a Facebook post, CNN reported.ANI02 July 2023

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MOGADISHU, July 2 (Xinhua) -- The African Union and United Nations envoys in Somalia have lauded Burundi peacekeepers for their sterling stabilization efforts in Somalia.

Mohammed El-Amine Souef, the special representative of the Chairperson of the AU Commission for Somalia and head of the AU Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS), and Anita Kiki Gbeho, the UN Secretary-General's Deputy Special Representative for United Nations Assistance Mission in Somalia, cited Burundi's key contributions to peace and stability in Africa, especially in Somalia and Central Africa.

Souef said Burundi has contributed immensely to the ideal universal peace mainly through political solutions anchored on mediation and constant engagement in favor of peace and security, according to a statement issued by the ATMIS Sunday in Mogadishu, the capital of Somalia.

Burundian troops serving with the ATMIS on Saturday joined their country to celebrate 61 years of independence from colonial rule.

"Burundi has never resisted investing in peace operations which for many people represent the unique hope for finding lasting peace like in Somalia and Central Africa," he said Saturday evening in Mogadishu during the celebrations.

Gbeho also lauded Burundian peacekeepers for their courage and sacrifice and pledged the UN's commitment to continue supporting the AU Mission. "With more than 3,000 Burundian troops committed to the largest AU peace support operation, you are making a difference daily to the security of the Somali people," she noted.

Sam Okiding, ATMIS force commander, said the Burundian troops have played a key role in pacifying Somalia and protecting the civilian population in their area of responsibility. "The Burundi contingent in Somalia has been at the forefront in fostering peace and stability in their Areas of Responsibility, and we commend you for your selfless efforts," Okiding said.

ATMIS Deputy Force Commander Marius Ngendabanka in charge of Operations and Plans, who hails from Burundi, outlined the contributions of Burundian troops since their deployment to Somalia in 2007 and reiterated their commitment to the peacebuilding process.

Ngendabanka said the Burundi contingent, currently deployed in Sector Five in Middle Shabelle, has demonstrated its support for Africa's peace and freedom initiatives hence serving as an example to other African countries.

Burundi is one of the ATMIS Troop Contributing Countries alongside Djibouti, Ethiopia, Kenya, and Uganda. 
Defence Secretary visits Myanmar, discusses transnational crimes

New Delhi, July 1: Defence Secretary Giridhar Aramane paid an official visit to Myanmar from June 30 to July 1, holding discussions on matters related to illegal trans-border movements and transnational crimes, the Ministry of Defence stated.

Defence Secretary visits Myanmar, discusses transnational crimes

Issues like maintenance of tranquillity in the border areas, and India's security were also discussed during the visit, and the two sides reaffirmed their commitments towards their respective territories.During his visit, Aramane called on the Chairman of the State Administrative Council, Senior General Min Aung Hlaing, in Nay Pyi Taw. He also called on the Defence Minister of Myanmar Gen (Retd.) Mya Tun Oo and held meetings with Commander-in-Chief, Myanmar Navy, Admiral Moe Aung and Chief of Defence Industries Lt Gen Khan Myint Than.The visit came as an opportunity for the Defence secretary to raise matters pertaining to India's security interests with the senior leadership of Myanmar.During the meetings, the two sides discussed issues related to the maintenance of tranquillity in the border areas, illegal trans-border movements and transnational crimes such as drug trafficking and smuggling.Both sides also reaffirmed their commitment to ensure that their respective territories would not be allowed to be used for any activities inimical to the other.India shares an approximately 1,700-km-long border with Myanmar. Any developments in that country have a direct impact on India's bordering regions.Peace and stability in Myanmar and the well-being of its people, therefore, remain of utmost importance to India, the ministry stated.ANI02 July 2023

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Chhattisgarh: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh meets wood carving exponent and Padma Shri recipient Ajay Mandavi

Kanker, July 1: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh met Ajay Mandavi, a noted exponent in tribal art and Padma Shri recipient, in Chhattisgarh's Kanker on Saturday.

Chhattisgarh: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh meets wood carving exponent and Padma Shri recipient Ajay Mandavi

He met the tribal artist before addressing a public rally in Kanker on Saturday."I have arrived here today after meeting your son, Ajay Mandvi, from Kanker. A proud son of the Kanker district of Chhattisgarh, he has incorporated Gond tribal art in woodcraft," Rajnath said after meeting Mandavi.Mandavi, who teaches wood calligraphy art to jail inmates, was honoured with the country's fourth-highest civilian honour, Padam Shri, by the Union government for excellence in art on Republic Day this year.The tribal art exponent is credited with transforming the lives of more than 400 undertrials by encouraging them to take up wood carving.He has dedicated himself to rehabilitating the 'misguided youth' by teaching them wood calligraphy.Mandavi has been into wood calligraphy since 2005.In 2010, the then District Collector requested him to teach woodcraft to jail inmates. Since then, Mandavi has been teaching the art to prisoners, most of whom are undertrials in Naxal cases.Around 400 suspected Naxalites have learnt the art from Mandavi.ANI02 July 2023

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Israel says Jenin rockets not linked to Hamas, posed no threat

Jerusalem, July 1: A lone wolf was responsible for two rockets fired from Jenin on Monday and they did not carry explosives, the Israel Defense Forces said on Tuesday this week.

Israel says Jenin rockets not linked to Hamas, posed no threat

A Hamas -linked group called the Al-Ayyash Battalion shared a video claiming to show the rocket launches from the city of Samaria towards Moshav Ram-On. However, the IDF said that there was no connection between the projectiles and an organized terrorist group, despite a report that Hamas's "military wing" claimed responsibility for them.The army earlier confirmed that a rocket was fired on Monday morning from the area of Jenin and struck Palestinian Authority territory. The army said the rocket did not pose a threat to Israeli communities.According to the IDF, the identity of the Palestinian who fired the rocket is known and the homemade projectiles did not contain explosives.Military officials said that it was more of a publicity stunt than an actual threat to surrounding Israeli communities.Also on Monday, the Israel Security Agency, or Shin Bet, arrested a Palestinian Arab after finding a rocket in an open field in an eastern section of Jerusalem about a month ago.Abdel Alhakim Buatna, a resident of Ajjul, north of Ramallah, was arrested on suspicion of intending to fire the rocket at Israelis during this year's Jerusalem Day flag parade in May. (ANI/TPS)ANI02 July 2023

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Past Lives actor Greta Lee set to star in Tron 3

Washington, July 2: Hollywood actor Greta Lee, who is currently getting a lot of praise for her performance in the romantic film 'Past Lives' is all set to star in the upcoming cyber tech adventure film 'Tron 3'.

'Past Lives' actor Greta Lee set to star in 'Tron 3'

Titled 'Tron Ares' the film also stars Jared Leto and Evan Peters in the lead roles. Joachim Ronning, who helmed 'Maleficent Mistress of Evil' and co-directed 'Pirates of the Caribbean Dead Men Tell No Tales,' is in the director's chair.According to The Hollywood Reporter, a US-based media house, 'Tron' was released in 1982, with Jeff Bridges starring as video game designer Kevin Flynn, who is transported inside his own creation and teams up with Tron, a security program played by Bruce Boxleitner. A 2010 sequel took on a generational approach to the story, bringing back Bridges while adding Garrett Hedlund and Olivia Wilde.The previous two parts were largely set inside the world of computers and programs, the script for 'Ares,' written by Jesse Wigutow and Jack Thorne, is said to focus on the emergence of a sentient program that crosses over into the human world that is not ready for contact.Leto is Ares, the manifestation of the program, with Lee starring as a video game programmer and tech company CEO who has to go on the run in order to protect her world-changing technology, as per The Hollywood Reporter.The official release date of the film is still awaited.ANI02 July 2023

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In message, Chinese students post unique graduation photos

Beijing, July 1: Chinese students, who are graduating amid the country's economic turmoil, and are staring at an ultra-competitive environment in the work market, have come up with a unique style of graduation photos, The Washington Post reported.

In 'message', Chinese students post 'unique' graduation photos

A small but sizable cohort of China's Class of 2023 has marked the occasion by posting photos of themselves looking completely worn out. Sprawled on the ground, their faces covered by their tasselled caps. Bent over railings with their hands dangling listlessly.On social media, they're often accompanied by hashtags like "zombie-style" or "lying flat."The Chinese economy is struggling to emerge from three paralyzing years of zero-covid policies. Unemployment, especially among the youth is staggering. According to the latest statistics, some 20 per cent of people between ages 16 and 24 are jobless, The Post reported.At this juncture, a record 11.6 million people who have graduated from college are finding their prospects bleak, and adopting a "lying flat" -- or "Tangping" in Chinese -- mentality.Lying flat calls for getting by with minimum effort, and the buzzword symbolizes subtle, passive defiance. The mindset has been publicly denounced and discouraged by the government.Tangping has emerged as a rallying cry among Chinese millennials and Gen-Z'ers who have had enough of the rat race and want to opt out of China's intense work culture and the social expectations that come with it, The Post stated.For some students, posting unconventional graduation photos online is not only a reflection of their mental state but also one last chance to just have fun with classmates before leaving school.The authors gave examples of several students, who are actually a part of this.Brenda Lu studied media and communication at Nanjing University says that her lying flat is about avoiding repetitive and meaningless internal friction, and it means that she wants to choose her own way of lifeFor the 21-year-old, the lying-flat graduation photos are a show of defiance against social expectations and China's rigid educational system."Throughout the three years of the pandemic, my classmates were just stuck in the dormitory taking online courses, like being locked up in prison," she said, adding, "So many people have had no social life for three years and are desperate to find a way out. This year's job search can only be described as particularly dismal."Jessie Hu an English student at Lanzhou University, after failing to get accepted to grad school, sent her resume to five companies earlier this year, but wasn't selected anywhere."I didn't even pass the first round," said the 22-year-old.She states that for her laying flat on the grass of her campus for her graduation photos, is a reflection of feeling overwhelmed by the choices in front of her."Most of my peers and I had only one goal in high school, which was to get high scores and go to a good college," she said. "But when you are graduating from college, there are so many options. Take public servant exams, apply for grad schools, study abroad or go find a job. ... You can't make up your mind because you don't have a specific goal, so you just get slapped down instead," The Post quoted her as saying.21-year-old Walnut Liu, who studied at Xian University of Posts and Telecommunications has been worrying about getting a job after graduation ever since her freshman year.Despite having a degree in automation technology, which should position her well for a job at a semiconductor company, she hasn't had any luck.She sent her resume to about 300 e-commerce companies and eventually got two offers. But she turned them down because they paid only 830 USD a month."I began to think that I can't find a good job based on my resume, so I thought I'd go to graduate school."Her lying-flat graduation photos were partly about fun, partly a reflection of her pandemic college life.She also feels missed out looking at the current students who can go to music festivals and bars."We didn't get to experience much," she said.Jingying Li (21) studied financial management at Zhuhai College of Science and Technology felt inspired after seeing the first lying-flat graduation photos"I thought it was very refreshing...really fun and exciting compared with the usual graduation photos. Plus, you don't have to worry about your facial expressions, and it's nice to take pictures while feeling mentally and physically relaxed," The Post quoted her as saying.Li, whose college experience was marred by the pandemic recently finished an internship as a broadcast host and is trying to remain upbeat even in this difficult job market."Negative news is like a stone thrown into the sea It sinks and disappears," she said, adding, "You can choose to spend your day happily or unhappily. I choose to be happy."Rain Xu (22) studied digital media art at Zhejiang Sci-Tech University in Hangzhou. He and her friends wanted to be part of the graduation photo trend, so they sprawled on auditorium floors and flopped over rows of seats, The Washington Post reported."This is what the mindset of college students looks like nowadays," she said. "Three years out of our four-year college life, we were in the pandemic. It's like not having gone to college at all."Xu, who studied digital media art, hasn't found a full-time job yet and is planning to do an internship as a secretary looking for a suitable job."There are layoffs and the salaries have been dropping," she said, noting that her friends with jobs are getting paid only 350 USD a month.Xu is thinking about studying abroad or graduate school, but her parents want her to take the civil servant exam. As a backup, she also has a teaching certificate."The rent in Hangzhou is so high. How do you live [on that]?," she said, adding, "If I can't do anything right, I think there is still demand for art teachers."Dexter Yang, another 22-year-old, who studied theoretical physics at the South China University of Technology, posed on the ground, covering his face with his graduation cap; giving the message 'The job market is depressing'."I think the trend reflects how the years of the pandemic have affected people," he said.Yang is planning to do a doctorate and become a professor but is also feeling conflicting about his choices."For new graduates, it's a blow to our confidence, especially when you see layoffs from big companies," he added."Of course, the ideal would be to choose what you like, but you also have to eat, right?," The Post quoted Yang as saying.ANI02 July 2023

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UP collected revenue of over Rs 46,000 crore in first quarter: CM Yogi Adityanath

Lucknow, July 1: Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Saturday reviewed the updated status of non-tax revenue receipts in the current financial year in a high-level meeting held at his official residence on Saturday, a press release said.

UP collected revenue of over Rs 46,000 crore in first quarter: CM Yogi Adityanath

Finance Minister Suresh Khanna was also present at the meeting.As per the official press release, the Chief Minister also received the details of revenue collection targets and relative achievements in Goods Services Tax, Value Added Tax, Excise, Stamp and Registration, Transport, Land Revenue and Energy on the occasion and gave necessary guidelines to the departmental officers."Money received in the form of revenue belongs to the public, and is being used in the public interest," CM Yogi said.During the meeting, the CM said that due to planned efforts, the non-tax revenue collection of the state is continuously increasing."In the first quarter of the current financial year, revenue of more than Rs 46,000 crores has been collected so far through various means. It includes Rs 26,000 collected from GST/VAT, Rs 10,000 crore as excise tax, Rs 6,000 crore from stamp and registration and more than Rs 2400 crore from transport. This condition can be called satisfactory. This is the amount collected from the public which will be spent in the development of the state and in public welfare works," CM Yogi said, informed the statement."There are immense possibilities in Uttar Pradesh. We should also create new sources to increase revenue collection. Concerted efforts should be made in line with the GST and VAT collection target of Rs 1.50 lakh crore for the current financial year," the CM said.CM Yogi expressed concern that the theft of revenue is a national loss. "There is a need to raise awareness to prevent attempts to evade GST. Collect solid information before proceeding with the raid. Intelligence needs to be improved," he said."There is a need to increase the activation of Special Disciplinary Units and Mobile Team Units. However, in recent times, due to their vigilance, success has been achieved in effectively curbing tax evasion. Still, there is a need for a comprehensive improvement in the working style. Qualified skilled and efficient officers should be posted in the field," CM Yogi added."To increase revenue collection, a clear target should be given to the field officers at the government level. This should be reviewed weekly/monthly. The quarterly review will continue from my end. All concerned departments should make every necessary effort for revenue collection relative to the target," CM Yogi added.CM Yogi instructed officials that strict action should be taken against the activities of making and selling illegal liquor. "Such activity should not happen in any district. It should also be ensured that liquor shops do not operate near religious places, schools, highways etc"."Vehicles engaged in mining work should not be overloaded under any circumstances. It is against the rules and also causes accidents. Therefore, it should be dealt with strictly," CM Yogi said, informed the statement.ANI02 July 2023

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Italian painting looted by Nazi Germany recovered in Japan

Tokyo, July 1: A priceless painting that Nazi Germany stole from a Polish aristocrat in 1940 has been found in Japan and returned to Poland, as per the Polish Embassy in Japan and a Tokyo-based art auction house, Kyodo News reported.

Italian painting looted by Nazi Germany recovered in Japan

The painting, "Madonna with Child" by Italian Baroque-Era painter Alessandro Turchi, was handed over to the Polish Embassy in Tokyo in late May at no expense to Poland. However, it is unclear how the piece ended up in the ownership of its previous Japanese owner.The embassy claims that this is the first time a piece of art that was seized from Poland during Nazi rule has been found in the Far East, as per Kyodo News.Kyodo News is a news agency based in Minato, Tokyo.According to Poland's Ministry of Culture and National Heritage, the painting has been missing since the 1990s, when it was offered for auction in New York.The painting's former owner requested that it be sold at auction in the autumn of 2021, according to Mainichi Auction Inc. in Tokyo, which uploaded a picture of the painting online and estimated its value at about 3 million yen (USD 21,000).The Polish ministry approached the corporation in advance of the auction, which was slated to take place in late January 2022. According to the firm, Polish authorities first claimed that some of the painting's elements did not match those on an old photograph of the stolen artwork that was thought to have been shot in 1939 or 1940, according to Kyodo News.Later, a Polish team of experts travelled to Japan to verify the authenticity of the painting and that it had been stolen during the Nazi occupation. A UV scan revealed that the original had been painted over in several places.Yoshiaki Onoyama, Mainichi Auction's official who negotiated with the former Japanese owner for the return of the painting said, "Polish citizens, who give the highest acclaim to Madonna with Child, have once again become its owner.""There was no financial incentive for us, but I think we got the job done," he added, Kyodo News reported.ANI02 July 2023

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Union Minister Sonowal launches campaign to transform 75 iconic lighthouses into tourism spots in India

New Delhi, June 1: The Union Minister of Ports, Shipping & Waterways and Ayush, Sarbananda Sonowal on Saturday launched a campaign to transform 75 historic lighthouses into tourism spots when he inaugurated three revamped lighthouses in Dwarka, Gopnath and Veraval that were transformed into tourist destinations.

Union Minister Sonowal launches campaign to transform 75 iconic lighthouses into tourism spots in India

As per the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, "The historic lighthouses were renovated with adequate facilities to act as tourist spots. This marks the beginning of the campaign by the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways (MoPSW) to transform 75 historic lighthouses across India into tourism spots. This is in line with the visionary approach of Prime Minister, Narendra Modi to transform India's distinctive lighthouses into captivating tourism sites.The initiative aims to showcase the rich culture, significance, and allure of these magnificent structures whereby they can propel prospect of tourism and power local economy.Speaking on the occasion, the Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, and Ayush, Sarbananda Sonowal, said, "It is a historic moment as we launch a campaign to transform India's iconic lighthouses as potential tourism spots propelling the economies of scale locally as well as boosting tourism sector of India. Our dynamic leader, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has spoken about the unique appeal of lighthouses and their potential as tourist attraction during the 75th episode of Mann Ki Baat. With Modi ji's guidance, this campaign is aimed at rejuvenating our lighthouses to become centre of attractions for tourists and witness the beauty of India's magnificent natural beauty. We believe that these transformed lighthouses will create a vibrant tourist destination showcasing India's rich and unique heritage to the world."Earlier, Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal attended the CII B20 Meet at Surat where he spoke and interacted with the leading members of the business community. Sonowal highlighted key achievements of Narendra Modi government in the past 9 years in different aspects of the society, economy and cultural aspects of India.The Shipping Minister Sarbananda Sonowal also called upon the business leaders to invest in the rich inland waterways sector of India in both B2B as well as B2C businesses.Sonowal called upon the business houses to opt for inland waterways, which is an economical, environmentally safer option, for movement of their cargo. Following the mammoth success of Ganga Vilas, the longest river cruise in the world, Sonowal also called upon for investment in the rich river cruise tourism sector through novel river cruise experiences which can be 'Narmada Vilas', 'Godavari Vilas', 'Mahanadi Vilas', 'Cauvery Vilas' and others.Speaking on the occasion, Sarbananda Sonowal said, "Surat's remarkable growth and resilience in the face of challenges is a shining example of India's economic potential, and the strength of our political leadership and vision provided by the Hon'ble Prime Minister Narendra Modi ji. India's G20 presidency is the globalisation and internationalisation of the vision of 'Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas'. Today, India has become the fifth largest economy in the world and has grown significantly not just as a consumer market with greater purchasing power, but also as a preferred investment destination. Under the visionary leadership of the Prime Minister, propelled by transformative initiatives like National Logistics Policy, Gati Shakti National Masterplan for Multimodal Connectivity, and other such reforms, the Indian infrastructure sector has grown manifold."The government is also committed towards supporting transition towards green growth in India's maritime sectors, and have set forth time-bound commitments and investments towards the achievement of the same." he addedSpeaking about the scope and opportunity to utilise Inland Waterways sector for transformational changes, Union Minister Sonowal added, "I take this opportunity to call all business leaders to come forward and jointly develop new river cruising experiences in India. We must have 'Narmada Vilas', 'Godavari Vilas', 'Mahanadi Vilas', 'Cauvery Vilas' and many more river cruises all across our river-rich nation. For movement of your cargo, take advantage of the inland waterways which is extremely economical and Eco-friendly mode of transportation that was revived under the visionary leadership of our Hon'ble Prime Minister Narendra Modi."ANI02 July 2023

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Campaign for elimination of Sickle Cell Anaemia will become key mission of Amrit Kaal: PM Modi

New Delhi, July 1: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday launched the National Sickle Cell Anaemia Elimination Mission in Shahdol, Madhya Pradesh and distributed sickle cell genetic status cards to the beneficiaries.

Campaign for elimination of Sickle Cell Anaemia will become key mission of Amrit Kaal: PM Modi

The Prime Minister also kickstarted the distribution of about 3.57 crore Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY) cards in Madhya Pradesh. During the programme, the Prime Minister honoured Rani Durgavati, the ruling queen of Gondwana in the mid-16th century.Addressing the gathering, the Prime Minister paid tributes to Rani Durgavati and said that the National Sickle Cell Anaemia Elimination Mission inspired by her is being initiated today. He also mentioned that 1 crore Ayushman Cards are being issued to the people of Madhya Pradesh.PM Modi underlined that the biggest beneficiaries of the two major efforts are the people of Gond, Bhil and other Adivasi societies. He congratulated the people and the double-engine government of Madhya Pradesh on the occasion."From the land of Shahdol, the nation is taking a big pledge of securing the lives of the people from the tribal communities, a resolution of freedom from Sickle Cell Anaemia and saving the lives of 2.5 lakh children and families that are affected by the disease. Recalling his personal experience with the tribal communities, the Prime Minister underlined the painful symptoms and genetic origin of Sickle Cell Anaemia," he said.The Prime Minister lamented the fact that no attention was paid towards the issue of Sickle Cell Anaemia for the past 70 years even though more than 50 per cent of Sickle Cell Anaemia cases in the world arise in India itself.He highlighted the indifference of the past governments towards the Adivasi communities and stated that it was the present government that went on to find a solution for this.For the present government, the Prime Minister said the Adivasi community is not just an electoral number but a matter of great sensitivity and emotion. He informed that he has been putting in efforts in this direction way before he first became the Chief Minister of Gujarat where he and the present Governor of Madhya Pradesh, Mangubhai C Patel would visit Adivasi communities and create awareness about Sickle Cell Anaemia.He also recalled starting various campaigns in the state as the Chief Minister of Gujarat. He further informed about seeking help from a Nobel Prize-winning scientist during his visit to Japan as the Prime Minister of India.The Prime Minister said that this campaign for elimination of Sickle Cell Anaemia will become a key mission of the Amrit Kaal. He expressed the determination to free the tribal communities and the country from the menace of Sickle Cell Anaemia by 2047.He underlined the need for a coordinated approach of government, health personnel and tribals. He informed that blood banks are being established for the patients, arrangement for bone marrow transplant is being enhanced, and screening of Sickle Cell Anaemia is being revamped. He asked the people to come forward for screening.The Prime Minister said that disease affects the entire family as disease pushes the family into the web of penury.Referring to his own background of poverty, PM Modi said that the government knows this pain and is sensitive about helping the patients. These efforts have reduced the cases of TB and the country is working to eliminate TB completely by 2025. Giving facts about the incidence of various diseases, the Prime Minister said in 2013, there were 11,000 cases of Kala Azar, now they have been reduced to less than a thousand. In 2013 there were 10 lakh cases of Malaria which have now come down to less than 2 lakhs in 2022. Similarly, leprosy cases have come down from 1.25 lakh to 70-75 thousand."The present Government strives to not only reduce ailments but also minimize the expenses on any ailment", the Prime Minister remarked as he highlighted the Ayushman Bharat Scheme which has significantly reduced the financial burden on the people due to medical expenses. He informed that 1 crore beneficiaries have been handed Ayushman cards today which will act as an ATM card worth Rs 5 lakh for the poor who have to pay a visit to the hospital."Be it any part of India, you can show them this card and get free treatment worth Rs 5 lakh", he asserted.The Prime Minister informed that about 5 crore patients have availed free treatment under the Ayushman Scheme, in the entire country, saving more than one lakh crore rupees of patients. This Ayushman Card is the guarantee of eliminating the biggest worry of the poor. No one has given this guarantee of 5 lakh rupees in the past, it is this government, it is Modi, that has given this guarantee", the Prime Minister said.The Prime Minister warned about those who are offering false guarantees and asked the people to identify their shortcomings.Referring to the guarantee of free electricity, the Prime Minister said that it implies that the cost of electricity will rise. Similarly, when a government is offering free rides, it means that the transport system of the state is about to be destroyed, when promises are made for higher pensions, it is a clear indication that the salaries of its employees would be delayed.He also referred to cheap petrol prices on offer and said that it only means increased tax rates for the people. Upon guarantees of employment, the Prime Minister said it is a surety that the newly introduced policies will destroy the industries in the state.Talking a sharp jibe at the opposition, the Prime Minister said, "The intention of some political parties is 'Niyat mein Khot aur Gareeb par Chot' (evil intentions and the tendency to hurt the poor). In the past 70 years, the previous governments could barely put food on the table for the poor, but the present government is turning the tables by providing a guarantee of free food grains to 80 crore families through Garib Kalyan Yojna".He also touched upon providing health security to 50 crore beneficiaries through Ayushman Yojna, free gas connections to 10 crore women beneficiaries of Ujjwala Yojna, and loans to 8.5 crore beneficiaries through the Mudra Yojna.The Prime Minister also talked about the anti-tribal policies of the past. The Prime Minister said that the new National Education Policy has addressed the challenge of language before the tribal students.He lamented the opposition to NEP by the people who gave false guarantees. He informed about more than 400 new Eklavya Schools that are providing residential schooling to tribal kids. 24,000 such students are getting education in Madhya Pradesh alone.Continuing with honouring the tribal heritage, the Prime Minister talked about steps taken in the last 9 years. He listed steps like declaring 15 November, the birth anniversary of Bhagwan Birsa Munda as Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas and museums dedicated to various tribal freedom fighters.The Prime Minister announced that the 500th birth anniversary of Rani Durgavati will be celebrated by the government of India at national level. A film will be made on her life and a commemorative coin and postal stamp will be issued.Concluding the address, the Prime Minister asked for the cooperation and blessings of the people to continue these efforts even further. He expressed confidence that the blessings and inspiration of Rani Durgavati will enable Madhya Pradesh to soar to new heights of development and together realize the dream of a developed India.ANI02 July 2023

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Best co-star: Ameesha Patel shares her working experience with Sunny Deol in Gadar 2

Mumbai, July 1: Actor Ameesha Patel talked about sharing screen space with Sunny Deol in 'Gadar 2', saying the chemistry between the two characters played by them is magical.

Best co-star: Ameesha Patel shares her working experience with Sunny Deol in 'Gadar 2'

She said, "A deep link between Sakeena (Ameesha Patel) and Tara(Sunny Deol) and the family elevates 'Gadar 2' to a new level. This bond is amazing, and everyone will adore them because of the family's love and togetherness. Still more. Sunny's action is fantastic, and the music and emotions will appeal to everyone's emotions."Ameesha added, "Sunny is the best co-star I have ever worked with."She continued, "Tara and Sakeena chemistry is real and magical and we hope audiences give them the same love the way they had loved them in 'Gadar'."Earlier, she also tweeted about her role after a still from the film which shows Sunny Deol with folded hands in front of a grave. Seeing the same, many assumed that it was of Sakeena and were upset thinking that her character was dying.She tweeted, "Hey all my lovely fans!! Too many of u have been concerned n worried with this shot from GADAR 2 thinking it's SAKINA who is dead !! Well it's not !! Who it is I can't say but it's not SAKINA !! So pls don't WORRY !! love u all"The teaser of 'Gadar 2,' hints that the story begins right from where the story ended in 'Gadar Ek Prem Katha' and the fans could also hear a sad version of the song 'Ghar Aaja Pardesi'.The film's portrayal of the partition of India and its impact on people's lives struck a chord with the audience. The epic tale of patriotism, love and sacrifice of Tara and Sakeena broke multiple records back in 2001 and now the makers are all set to entertain the audiences with the second instalment of the film.ANI02 July 2023

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PHNOM PENH, July 2 (Xinhua) -- Cambodian authorities had arrested 9,034 drug-related suspects, including 167 foreigners, in 3,764 cases during the first half of 2023, said an Anti-Drug Police Department's (ADP) report on Sunday.

Some 52 percent of the suspects were drug traffickers, manufacturers, possessors and transporters, while 48 percent were drug users, the report said.

"A total of 993 kg of illicit drugs, 9 kg of dry marijuana, and 17,950 marijuana plants were seized from those suspects from January to June 2023," the report said, adding that some 326 kg of chemical substances used for drug manufacturing were also confiscated.

The authorities have also impounded 12 homemade rifles, 26 pistols, 99 cars, 1,025 motorbikes, 3,195 telephones and 229 scales, as well as some cash, it said.

The seized drugs included heroin, ecstasy, cocaine, crystal methamphetamine, methamphetamine pills, cathinone and ketamine, among others.

Cambodian Prime Minister Samdech Techo Hun Sen said earlier this week that illicit drugs have continued to pose a threat to security, public order and development in the Southeast Asian country.

He said that despite great strides already made, criminals still continued to actively smuggle drugs across borders by land, sea, post and air, and some had manufactured illegal drugs for circulating within the kingdom and trafficking to other countries.

Cambodia has no death sentence for drug traffickers. Under its law, someone found guilty of trafficking more than 80 grams of illicit drugs could be jailed for life. 
Balochistan vulnerable to climate-induced disasters: Report

Balochistan, July 1: In terms of climate-induced disasters, Balochistan remains one of the areas which is most susceptible to natural calamities, and also has one of the worst defences against those, reported The News International.

Balochistan vulnerable to climate-induced disasters: Report

Another period of heavy rain and violent hailstorms arrived before those impacted by the floods and torrential rains brought on by climate change in 2022 could begin to recover.Those affected by the 2022 floods and torrential rains triggered by climate change had yet to be rehabilitated when another spell of heavy rainfall and fierce hailstorms hit Pakistan.The hail destroyed a solar panel set on a tubewell in the Khuzdar district of Wadh, fractured a PVC pipe, and cracked windows on cars and stores.Several districts in Balochistan's standing crops that were ready to be harvested were negatively impacted; they include the Khuzdar area of Wadh, Loralai, Zhob, Qilla Saifullah, Muslim Bagh, Ziarat, and Harnai, according to The News International.Wheat, cotton, and vegetables like peppers, garlic, and onions were among the crops that were devastated by the unusually high rains and hail. Additionally devastated were fruit crops like those of grapes, pomegranates, cherries, and apricots.A resident of Wadh, 55-year-old Ghulam Nabi, is a small land-holding farmer, and his only source of livelihood is farming on a few hectares.He said he has never seen such a hailstorm in his life and that, "This is the second year all our cotton and vegetable crops have been destroyed by unexpected rain and heavy hail," he said.Nabi said the farmers should receive compensation from the provincial government and that there will be a food scarcity if this doesn't happen, he added.In Balochistan, the flash floods of 2022 caused widespread devastation. There were 336 rain-related fatalities between June 1 and October 30, 2022, according to data from the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA). 187 more people suffered injuries. 475,721.434,424 animals died as a result of flash floods that affected 3 acres of agricultural land, according to The News International.According to United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) more than 116,000 people in Balochistan are still registered as displaced.ANI02 July 2023

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Over 60,000 farmers avail benefits of PM Kisan Yojana in J-Ks Udhampur

Udhampur, July 2: The government launched an income support scheme, Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN), for the farmers in the interim Budget 2019 with an aim to provide direct benefit to the poor farmers, an official release said.

Over 60,000 farmers avail benefits of PM Kisan Yojana in J-K's Udhampur

The PM-KISAN scheme entails direct cash support of Rs 6,000 for farmers and is estimated to cost the exchequer Rs 75,000 crore.Under the scheme, small and marginal farmers with less than two hectares of land will get cash in their accounts in three installments of Rs 2,000 each, the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare mentions in the scheme document.Farmers from Udhampur district especially from Debrah Panchayat hailed the scheme as now they are able to buy proper seeds as earlier they were unable to buy because of lower income. As many sixty thousand four hundred eighty-nine farmers in the district benefit from the scheme, officials said.Debrah Village is experiencing a remarkable transformation in its agricultural landscape. Thanks to the growing demand for organic vegetables, farmers are reaping the benefits of organic farming practices, which have significantly improved their fortunes. This shift towards organic vegetable cultivation has been propelled by the superior nutritional value, absence of genetically modified ingredients, and the positive environmental impact associated with organic farming.Sanjeev Kumar Sharma, a veteran vegetable farmer with 33 years of experience from Debrah village, has embraced organic farming methods to cater to the rising demand for organic vegetables in Udhampur.Sharma, known for his dedication to chemical-free farming, expressed his gratitude to the Central government for implementing the scheme.Sharma highlighted the significant increase in demand for his organic vegetables, citing the organic farming methods he employs as the key factor. He emphasized that the use of chemical fertilizers is completely avoided in his farming practices, thereby ensuring the production of safe and healthy vegetables for consumers.He acknowledged the government's proactive stance in addressing the needs of farmers. He confirmed that he has received these installments promptly, which have been instrumental in enabling him to purchase various types of vegetable seeds to sustain and expand his organic farming operations.He urged the youth not to solely rely on government jobs but to establish their own businesses or embrace agriculture, citing the numerous welfare schemes launched by the government for the benefit of farmers.As organic vegetable cultivation flourishes in Debrah village, farmers like Sanjeev Kumar Sharma are leading the charge toward sustainable and environmentally friendly agricultural practices. With the support of the PM-KISAN Yojana and increasing demand for organic produce, Debrah Village is emerging as a beacon of success, setting an inspiring example for other regions to follow in their quest for a greener and more prosperous future.Sanjay Anand Chief Agriculture Officer, Udhampur said that there are a total of 60,489 registered farmers who avail of the benefits of the scheme.ANI02 July 2023

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Will implement 5 guarantees come what may: Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah

Bengaluru, July 2: Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Sunday said that his government will implement the five guarantees announced during the state election come what may.

Will implement 5 guarantees come what may: Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah

"We will implement the five guarantees announced during the election no matter how difficult it may be. No matter who pays, we will pay for the five announcements in this year's budget," he said."Our five guarantees transcend caste and religion. The poor and the middle class of all sections of society are in dire straits. We are fulfilling these to alleviate their suffering," he added.Reaffirming his promise to all Kannadigas, he said, "As long as I am in power, I will strive for the prosperity of the oppressed castes, dalit communities, minority communities and the poor people of all castes."Reiterating that he would not contest for polls again, he said, "I will not stand for election again. I will be active in politics till the end. I will continue my politics and fight for the poor."The Chief Minister was speaking after performing the groundbreaking ceremony of Sri Kaginele Mahasansthan Kanaka Gurupeeth here. He said that the Kaginele Mahasansthan has been established with the intention to serve as a conglomeration for all exploited communities."It is not just a caste-society Mutt. It belongs to all the exploited societies," Siddaramaiah said.The Chief Minister said that the Kaginele Mahasansthan was established with the aim of becoming a voice for the oppressed communities. "It was established by touring across the state and bringing all communities together. He said that the Peetha, which has been successfully doing social activities in the presence of Swamiji Tarakanandpuri Shri, is now doing social activities in the presence of Niranjananandpuri," he said.At the groundbreaking ceremony on Saturday, Jagadguru Sri Niranjanandpuri Mahaswamy of the Mahasansthan, head of the Mutt branch Eswaranandpuri Mahaswamiji, Siddaramamanandpuri Mahaswamiji, Shivanandpuri Mahaswamiji, Tridandi Venkataramanuja Mahaswamiji, community leaders H. Vishwanath, Minister Bhairathi Suresh, MLAs S. T. Somasekhar, former minister H.M. Revanna, among others, were present.Jagadguru Sri Niranjanandapuri Mahaswamy, who presided over the program, said, "We do not ask for government funding for the construction of the branch mutt, the sweat and hard work of the society is enough."Speaking at the event, Minister Bhairati Suresh announced that he would personally donate Rs 50 lakhs for the construction of the Sri Mutt.ANI02 July 2023

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Kajol dons classy saree as she redefines meaning of BLACK

Mumbai, July 2: Actor Kajol on Sunday, shared pictures of her desi avatar and redefined the meaning of Black.

Kajol dons classy saree as she redefines meaning of 'BLACK'

The 'Trial' actor shared a series of stunning pictures on Instagram in a black saree.She wrote, "B is for Bold, L is for Lazily lovely, A is for Aal is Well, C is for Cccooooofffeeee, K is for "Kajol."The first, second and third pictures gave a close-up look at the actor.The last three photos gave a full glimpse of the actor's look.She accessorized her attire with silver earrings and rings, which unleashed her ethereal avatar. She kept her hair tied in a bun, accentuating her look further. Meanwhile, on the work front, Kajol will be seen in an upcoming web series 'The Good Wife'.The series is an Indian adaptation of the American courtroom drama of the same name starring Julianna Margulies in the lead role The show has seven seasons and concluded in 2016.Kajol is seen as a housewife who returns to working as a lawyer after her husband's scandal lands him in jail. Directed by Suparn Verma it will stream on Disney+ Hotstar.She was seen in 'Lust Stories 2' along with Neena Gupta, Tamannaah Bhatia, Vijay Varma, Mrunal Thakur, Angad Bedi, Amruta Shubhash, Tillotama Shome and Kumud Mishra.ANI03 July 2023

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PRAGUE, July 1 (Xinhua) -- The Czech Republic on Saturday took over the one-year presidency of the Visegrad Group (V4) from Slovakia, planning to build on the previous presidency's efforts to "return to the roots of cooperation."

Established in 1991, the V4 consists of the Czech Republic, Hungary, Poland and Slovakia.

Calling "V4 Citizens" as its main motto, the Czech presidency will focus on three pillars -- a safe and advanced society, an innovative and interconnected economy and the Russia-Ukraine conflict and its impacts, according to its presidency program.

The Czech Republic continues to regard the V4 format as "a traditional, Central European platform for cultivating good neighborly relations through dialogue and practical human-centered cooperation, to bring specific benefits for the citizens of the V4 countries," states the program.

The Czech presidency will also continue V4 cooperation with external partners. It will keep support for "an ambitious EU enlargement policy high on its agenda as a long-standing priority."

The Czech presidency also calls for "clear, firm and concrete support" for Ukraine. However, the V4 countries disagree on military aid to Ukraine, the Czech News Agency reported. There are also differences in their approach to reforming the EU's migration rules.

The V4 is a cultural and political alliance of four Central European states for the purpose of advancing military, cultural, economic and energy cooperation with one another. The rotating V4 Presidency usually runs from the beginning of July to the end of June of the following year. 
COVID-19 has resulted in enormous morbidity and mortality around the world. The pandemic has also adversely affected socially susceptible individuals with lower levels of education, lower yearly household income, and a higher percentage of pediatric family members.

Vaccination is an important technique for mitigating the effects of COVID-19 and reducing the global COVID-19 burden on health and healthcare institutions.

In a recent Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's (CDC) Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report (MMWR), researchers describe discrepancies in the incidence rates of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) and the effects of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) vaccination on the inequalities by annual household income in Los Angeles.

Study: Disparities in COVID-19 Disease Incidence by Income and Vaccination Coverage  81 Communities, Los Angeles, California, July 2020September 2021. Image Credit: OSORIOartist / Shutterstock.com

About the study

In the present study, researchers evaluate SARS-CoV-2 infection incidence among 81 lowest-income localities in California and the effect of COVID-19 vaccination on decreasing these discrepancies.

Data on a total of 5,083,093 Los Angeles community-dwelling residents were obtained from the Los Angeles Times SARS-CoV-2 infection information repository between March 2020 and September 2021. The United States Census Bureau provided sociodemographic information. Using postal codes as the identifier, SARS-CoV-2 infection incidence rates and immunization information were linked with U.S. census information.

Generalized linear mixed effects-type modeling was performed with Poisson distributions to determine the median SARS-CoV-2 vaccination uptake in Los Angeles communities. Disease incidence rates across household income levels were determined during three periods of surges in SARS-CoV-2 infections.

Adjusted incidence rate ratio (aIRR) values were compared between areas based on the median family income percentile in the highest month of every COVID-19 wave. The covariates were adjusted by participants' sex, the proportion of prime-vaccinated individuals, the proportion of individuals aged 65 years and above, those born in non-U.S. locations, non-Hispanic Whites, Blacks, or African Americans, Hispanics, or Latinos, individuals who had attained high school-level education, the mean family count, and the number of individuals without health insurance.

Study findings

The aIRR values among localities with the smallest and biggest median family income deciles in the first two surge periods were 6.6 and 4.3, respectively. Model estimations did not reveal an incidence differential among the richest and poorest households during the September 2021 surge with an aIRR of 0.8.

Vaccination uptake was lowest among low-income communities and highest among high-income ones at 59% and 72%, respectively. A significant relationship between family income levels and COVID-19 vaccination on the incidence of SARS-CoV-2 infections revealed that vaccination had the most profound effect on SARS-CoV-2 infection incidence among low-income groups. Vaccination availability was inversely correlated with SARS-CoV-2 infection incidence across all income levels; however, this impact was greatest in low-income populations.

A 20% rise in community vaccinations would have led to an additional 8% reduction in the incidence of SARS-CoV-2 infections among communities with low incomes compared to those with high incomes. These findings highlight the importance of increasing the availability of vaccines and reducing vaccine reluctance in impoverished communities to decrease the inequalities in SARS-CoV-2 infection incidence.

Vaccination uptake was inversely related to the incidence of SARS-CoV-2 infections across all socioeconomic levels during the third COVID-19 surge period. Vaccination had the most significant influence on SARS-CoV-2 infection incidence in low-income groups, likely due to the higher likelihood of SARS-CoV-2 exposures and amounts of post-SARS-CoV-2 infection immunity.

Despite efforts by the government to improve vaccine availability for low-income localities, vaccination uptake varied by income. California assigned 40% of COVID-19 vaccinations to groups in the Californian Healthy Places Index's (HPI) lowermost quartile, which resulted in a minor variation in prime vaccination uptake among adults across different income levels in Los Angeles communities during the third surge in September 2021.

Conclusions

COVID-19 incidence was higher in lower-income communities of Los Angeles during two COVID-19 surges before vaccine availability in July 2020 and January 2021 as compared to higher-income communities.

Despite lower vaccination coverage, the effects of vaccination were highest in the low-income communities. Thus, addressing barriers to COVID-19 vaccination in lower-income communities is crucial to reducing disparities in SARS-CoV-2 infection incidence and related illnesses.

Efforts to increase vaccination confidence and accessibility are needed to reduce income-associated inequalities. Future preparation is also essential to ensure preparedness to deploy methods to reduce inequalities during pandemics that affect low-income populations while vaccines are being produced.

Minimizing vaccination challenges, such as delivering booster doses of updated bivalent SARS-CoV-2 vaccines, is critical for reducing the impact of SARS-CoV-2 infections and associated diseases in the U.S.
Ever since Honda officially unveiled its feature-loaded Elevate in India, it has created a buzz all over the internet. Now, reports say that the company will start accepting the booking for SUVs on July 3 with a token amount of Rs 21,000. Amid this, the company is likely to reveal the price, and other important details about the car by the end of August or the start of September.

Some reports also suggested that the Elevate will reach the authorized showrooms for the display before July ends. While the test drive is expected to begin in August or September.

Honda Elevate Models

As per the details shared by some dealerships, it has been suggested that the Elevate will be offered in four models. However, the company has yet to release related details about the same. It has been reported that the SUV will come in SV, V, VX, and ZX variants. The car will be featured in a manual gearbox as standard. While automatic transmission will be offered in the top upper only.

Honda Elevate Engine Details

Honda Elevate will hit the Indian road with 1.5-litre, four-cylinder, naturally-aspirated petrol engine option. The unit will generate a max power of 120bhp, and 145Nm peak torque. The SUV will be paired with either a 6-speed manual or an optional 7-step CVT gearbox. Those who were waiting for the petrol-hybrid powertrain will get some disappointments as the company has no plans to introduce one as yet.

Honda Elevate Size

To give a wider perspective about the car, it will share a similar size as Creta and Seltos, measuring 1,790mm in width, 4,312mm in length, 1,650mm in height with a wheelbase of 2,650mm. Apart from this, the vehicle also will get s decent 220mm of ground clearance.
While securing their family against future financial challenges remains the main driver for 83% of the respondents in a latest study, more than 70% of life insurance consumers believe that they could secure their childs education and medical emergencies expenses with adequate insurance coverage.

These are the findings of Future Generali India Life Insurance Co. Ltd., based on a study on the perceptions and preferences surrounding life insurance. The report highlighted key hurdles consumers face when purchasing life insurance or enhancing their coverage, especially the rising discontent amongst Gen-Z policyholders who remain unenthused by the lack of transparency, trust and commitment displayed by life insurers during the policy period.

Also Read: Motor, Health Or Life? How Bharat Prioritise Insurance

According to the study, lack of funds (44%) and lack of knowledge/understanding (40%) are the top barriers to life insurance. 48% of males stated insufficient funds compared to females. While, 18% of respondents believe that premiums are very expensive.

The company said that the study is based on responses collected from 1300 respondents belonging to different age groups, income groups, genders, and key markets.

Across age groups, respondents believe they cant expect better returns from life insurance products.

Also, despite 89% of the participants viewing life insurance as an instrument to achieve future financial security, more than 50% believe it to be an appealing savings product that also offers superlative tax benefits. 61% of the population in Tier 1 & 75% of the population in Tier 2 plan to invest in Life Insurance.

More than a third (39%) of those in the 45+ yrs age group have opted for life insurance to secure lump sum or regular pay-outs, indicating changing purchasing preferences as consumers age.

Across the younger respondents though, aspects such as income protection and the potential to generate better returns than traditional saving instruments remain the top drivers to purchase life insurance products.

Gen-Z population has poorer perceptions of life insurance companies trustworthiness, transparency, and commitment.

Around 70% of participants feel the need to increase their life insurance coverage, particularly males and those aged 27-34.

Bruce de Broize, MD and CEO, Future Generali India Insurance, said, For a country that is pegged to become the third largest economy by 2027-28, improving life insurance penetration can act as an important driver for overall economic development.

To bring India on par with the global average, addressing the top barriers preventing the countrys citizens from securing themselves with life insurance is pertinent. Unsurprisingly, 44% of our surveys respondents confessed to not having sufficient funds to invest, while nearly 40% cited their lack of knowledge about the benefits of life insurance and the increasing product complexity as the top reasons for not investing in a suitable life insurance cover, Bruce de Broize added.

The study emphasised the growing popularity of online channels like websites and mobile applications amongst the intended target group, mainly due to the increased transparency and benefits on offer.

Moreover, with ~70% of existing life insurance purchasers inclined to increase their coverage, insurers need to improve their customer outreach initiatives and capitalise on the immense opportunities presented by the countrys booming working population.
When it comes to establishing a stable career, many of us often gravitate towards government jobs. These positions offer several advantages, including job security, opportunities for career advancement, pension plans, access to medical facilities, housing allowances, and more. If you are contemplating a career in government or looking to reinvigorate your professional path, we have compiled a selection of job vacancies available across various government agencies.

India Post Recruitment For 263 Vacancies

India Post is inviting online applications for the positions of Gramin Dak Sevaks (GDS), Branch Postmaster (BPM), and Assistant Branch Postmaster (ABPM) in the North East Circle of Manipur. This recruitment drive aims to fulfil 263 vacancies for 12,828 Branch Postmasters and Assistant Branch Postmasters in various circles. Interested candidates can submit their applications online atindiapostgdsonline.gov.in until July 8. The minimum age requirement is 18 years and the maximum age limit of 40 years as of July 11, 2023, with relaxations for SC/ST, OBC, and Persons with Disabilities. Selection will be based on merit in Class 10, and an application fee of Rs 100 will be charged except for specific categories.

Punjab and Sind Bank Recruitment For 183 Specialist Officers Vacancies

Punjab and Sind Bank have recently released a notification for the recruitment drive of 183 Specialist Officers. The last date to apply is till July 12. The positions available are for IT officers, Rajbhasha officers, Law managers, Forex officers, and more. The selection process involves a written test, shortlisting, and interview. Applicants should be between the age of 25 to 35 years old in order to apply. The application fee ranges from Rs. 850 to Rs. 1003 for general candidates, and Rs. 150 to Rs. 177 for reserved candidates (GST applicable). The payment is non-refundable and can be made online.

Indian Navy Recruitment For 35 Agniveer MR Musician position

The Indian Navy has commenced the recruitment drive for the Agniveer MR Musician position, aiming to fill 35 vacancies. Unmarried male and female candidates can apply online through the official website by July 2. The selection process will involve academic merit, physical fitness tests, music screening tests, medical tests, and document verification. As per the age criteria, candidates must be born between November 1, 2002, and April 30, 2006. They should have completed Class 10 from a recognised institution. Selected candidates undergo basic training at INS Chilka, followed by specialized professional training at INS Kunjali for fourteen weeks.

Bharatiya Pashupalan Nigam Limited Recruitment For 3444 vacancies

Bharatiya Pashupalan Nigam Limited (BPNL) is recruiting candidates who have completed their Class 10 and Class 12 examinations. With 3444 vacancies available, interested candidates have until July 5 to apply. The openings are for the positions of 2870 Surveyors and 574 Surveyor-in-charge roles. The age limit is 21-40 years for Surveyor-in-charge and 18-40 years for Surveyor. The application fee ranges from Rs 826 to Rs 944. Selected candidates will receive a monthly salary of Rs 24,000 for Surveyor-in-charge and Rs 20,000 for Surveyor.

Rajasthan Public Service Commission Recruitment For 905 Vacancies

The Rajasthan Public Service Commission (RPSC) has announced the Rajasthan State and Subordinate Services Combined Competitive Examination. Interested candidates can apply on the official website,rpsc.rajasthan.gov.in, from July 1 to July 31. The examination targets to fulfil 905 vacancies for RAS/RTS recruitment, including 424 vacancies for State Services and 481 vacancies for Subordinate Services. Candidates must be at least 21 years old and should possess a degree from a recognised university. The application fee includes Rs 600 for general category candidates and Rs 400 for EWS, ST, SC, and reserved categories.

Bihar Teaching Recruitment For 1.78 lakh teaching positions

The government of Bihar has decided to remove the residency requirement for teachers recruitment in state-run schools. From now on, any Indian citizen can apply for government teaching jobs in Bihar, even if they belong to any other state. The recruitment drive will commence soon for 1.78 lakh teaching positions in primary and high schools. Bihar Public Service Commission (BPSC) will conduct the examination. According to the state government, the recruitment process will be completed by the end of this year.
Television actress Sreejita De married her boyfriend Michael Blohm-Pape on Sunday, July 2, in a dreamy wedding ceremony. The actress took to her Instagram account and shared first photos from the wedding. The Bigg Boss alum revealed that she and Michael had a church ceremony. In the photos, Sreejita was seen wearing a gorgeous white gown while Michael looked dapper in a black tuxedo.

Sharing the first wedding photos, Sreejita wrote, Today we celebrate the beginning of forever, hand in hand. "

The couple was showered with love and wishes from friends and fans. Her fellow Bigg Boss 15 contestant Shiv Thakare wrote, Congratulations ." Actress Monalisa wrote, Congratulations  you both Have a blessed Life." Shaleen Malhotra also sent them his love. Hey. Congratulations then both of you. " he wrote. Actress Narayani Shastri also commented, Congratulations my love."

A fan wrote, Sooooo pretty congratulations to both of you ." Big congratulations to you both may god bless you both and your married will be full of happiness " added another. Congratulations Sree" a third user wrote.

The wedding seems to have taken place in Germany, Michaels home country. During an interview with ETimes ahead of her wedding, the actress said, I will be wearing a white gown for the Christian wedding. I want to adorn myself a little before the wedding. In fact, I havent coloured my hair for a while, so I am getting a new hair colour. Its going to be a western wedding and the gown has already been finalized."

Following their Christian wedding in Germany, Sreejita and Michael will return to Mumbai to celebrate their union with a reception on July 17. Additionally, they have exciting plans for a Bengali-style wedding as well, which will be held in Goa.

Who is Michael Blohm-Pape?

The couple has been together since 2019. The couple reportedly met at a restaurant and exchanged numbers. Michael is said to be a business development manager at a firm. The couple dated for two years and in 2021, he proposed to her in Paris. The engagement photos had gone viral at the time.
Sreejita De, a popular television actress and former Bigg Boss contestant, has tied the knot with her German boyfriend Michael Blohm Pape. The photos from their church wedding have been going viral on social media. Even the actress also shared on her Instagram account

The actress is known for her performance in shows such as Kasautii Zindagii Kay, Nazar, Lal Ishq. Her fiance came to the limelight when he came to Bigg Boss house during family week. The couple grabbed a lot of attention from the fans. Well, as the wedding took place in Germany, lets see who is Sreejita Des Husband Michael Blohm-Pape?

He is s a German citizen and was born on October 6, 1990, in Hamberg, Germany. There is not much information regarding him. He works for a shipping company named Hapag-Lloyd AG as a business development manager, reportedly.

In one of the interviews, Srijita shared that she met Michael Blohm-Pape in 2019 at a restaurant. Srijita said she was the one who initiated the conversation, and later they exchanged numbers. After talking for a while, they started liking each other and started dating.

Sharing the first wedding photos, Sreejita wrote, Today we celebrate the beginning of forever, hand in hand.

The wedding seems to have taken place in Germany, Michaels home country. During an interview with ETimes ahead of her wedding, the actress said, I will be wearing a white gown for the Christian wedding. I want to adorn myself a little before the wedding. In fact, I havent coloured my hair for a while, so I am getting a new hair colour. Its going to be a western wedding and the gown has already been finalized."

Following their Christian wedding in Germany, Sreejita and Michael will return to Mumbai to celebrate their union with a reception on July 17. Additionally, they have exciting plans for a Bengali-style wedding as well, which will be held in Goa.
Hundreds of mourners from Frances Muslim community, filled with grief and evident anguish, created a somber procession from a mosque to a hillside cemetery on Saturday. They came together to lay to rest a 17-year-old whose tragic death at the hands of the police has sparked days of rioting throughout the country.

The severity of the situation was emphasized by President Emmanuel Macrons decision to cancel an official trip to Germany due to the ongoing unrest in France, as per Associated Press.

To prevent a fifth night of violence, the government deployed 45,000 police officers to the streets of cities nationwide. In a tweet, Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin stated that the night had been relatively calmer compared to previous ones. He said 427 arrests were made during the course of the night.

What Caused the Protests?

The protests were sparked by the shooting death of a teenager named Nahel, who had Algerian heritage, during a traffic stop in the Paris suburb of Nanterre, according to CNN.

A video of the incident recorded by a bystander showed two officers standing by the drivers side of the car, with one of them firing his weapon at the driver despite no immediate apparent threat. The officer claimed he shot because he feared the teenager would run someone over with the car.

The actions of the officer were deemed potentially illegal, and he is currently under investigation for voluntary homicide. He has been placed in preliminary detention as part of the investigation, according to CNN.

What Has Happened Since?

Since Nahels death, protests have erupted with demonstrators holding signs that highlight police killings. Numerous government buildings have been damaged in the unrest, as anger over racial bias in the country has been ignited.

In response to the violence, French officials have launched a crackdown, mobilizing over 40,000 police officers to patrol cities nationwide. Since Tuesday, more than 2,000 people have been detained, and over 500 police officers and gendarmes have been injured. In Paris alone, 5,000 security personnel were deployed, with additional powers granted to officers to restore order and make arrests, as stated by French Interior Minister Gerard Darmanin.

The protests have also extended to overseas French territories, where violent demonstrations have taken place. In the capital of French Guiana, Cayenne, a man was killed by a stray bullet during the riots. In Reunion, a French territory in the Indian Ocean, at least 28 people have been detained in connection with the riots, according to local authorities.

France and Racial Bias

France has often earlier witnessed a resurgence of public debates surrounding race and racism. Several significant events have contributed to this discourse. One such event was the beheading of school teacher Samuel Paty in October 2020, which occurred in a banlieue (suburban outskirt) north of Paris. This tragic incident brought issues of extremism and religious tensions to the forefront of public attention.

Another incident that sparked controversy was the beating of Michel Zecler, a forty-one-year-old Black music producer, by four police officers in Paris in November. The incident was captured on video, leading to widespread outrage and calls for police accountability.

These events have led to discussions on the influence of Anglo-American or US conceptions of race and racism being imported into the French context, as per the Georgetown Journal of International Affairs.

As per the report, discussing race remains a sensitive and often taboo topic in the country. The French state has historically pursued a policy of universalism, emphasizing equality and citizenship while downplaying or even denying the existence of racial or ethnic differences.

However, research has shown that France shares similarities with the United States regarding the acknowledgment and denial of differences based on race and ethnicity. In both contexts, there is a complex interplay between recognizing and dismissing racial and ethnic disparities.

Colourblind to Racism

Since the Second World War, France has undergone significant demographic changes, becoming an ethnically diverse country. Currently, around five percent of the French population is non-European and non-white. While this percentage is lower than that of non-white citizens in the United States, which ranges from 15 to 25% when considering how Latinos are classified, it still amounts to at least three million people. As a result, issues related to ethnic diversity have become prominent on the French policy agenda.

Contrasting with many other advanced industrialized countries, France has adopted a distinct approach to addressing ethnic issues, according to a report by Brookings. The country adheres to a color-blind" model of public policy, which means that it does not specifically target policies towards racial or ethnic groups. Instead, France utilizes geographic or class criteria to tackle social inequalities. However, since the early 1970s, France has developed an extensive repertoire of anti-racist policies.

Traditionally, French policies have primarily focused on combatting hate speech, often going beyond the measures taken by their American counterparts. Comparatively, there has been relatively less emphasis on addressing issues of discrimination in areas such as employment, housing, and access to goods and services.

Frances color-blind approach and its emphasis on universalism and equality have faced criticism for failing to adequately address the specific challenges faced by marginalized racial and ethnic communities.

A Reminder Through Nahel

The killing of Nahel has brought to the forefront the deep-rooted issues of poverty, discrimination, unemployment, and lack of opportunities that persist in neighborhoods across France, particularly in areas where many residents have ancestral ties to former French colonies, like Nahels neighborhood.

For many residents, Nahels story served as a catalyst, igniting pent-up frustration and hopelessness among young people who have been grappling with various challenges. Housing shortages, joblessness, and low wages were among the concerns highlighted by Samba Seck, a transportation worker from the Paris suburb of Clichy-sous-Bois.

Nahels story is the lighter that ignited the gas. Hopeless young people were waiting for it. We lack housing and jobs, and when we have (jobs), our wages are too low, Samba Seck, a 39-year-old transportation worker in the Paris suburb of Clichy-sous-Bois told Associated Press.

Clichy-sous-Bois was the epicenter of the riots in 2005, triggered by the deaths of two teenagers who were electrocuted while fleeing from the police. The incident occurred in the same housing project where Seck lived. The current violence targeting Clichy and other areas has been met with mixed feelings among residents, who express both frustration and empathy. They lament the destruction caused by the rioters while highlighting their own already precarious socioeconomic circumstances.

The fear of police violence is also prevalent among the younger generation, contributing to their anger and disillusionment. Many feel that they are trapped in a cycle of poverty and marginalization, with limited prospects for improvement.

Although the crisis has escalated, President Macron has refrained from declaring a state of emergency, a measure employed during the 2005 riots. However, the government has significantly increased law enforcement presence by deploying a large number of police officers, some of whom were called back from their vacations.

In response to the unrest, Frances justice minister, Dupond-Moretti, issued a warning that young people sharing calls for violence on platforms like Snapchat could face legal consequences. President Macron has also attributed the escalation of violence to social media, further fueling concerns over its influence in these situations.

Associated Press contributed to this report
A woman in Bihars Banka district resorted to self-defence and partly slit a mans genitals who barged into her house and allegedly raped her on Friday night. Police has reportedly lodged a case into the matter and arrested the accused, who was later admitted to the hospital.

The woman, who is in her 20s, was asleep at her home when the 27-year-old accused barged into her house from the roof door and raped her, while her husband was away, the Times of India reported quoting police.

As per the report, the woman tried to resist the mans attempt to rape her first, but when she was unable to stop him, she picked up a shaving blade kept nearby and partly slit his genitals.

The woman then managed to free herself from the attackers clutches and raised an alarm. However, by the time villages came to her rescue, the accused had fled from the crime scene.

Later, villagers informed the police of the matter and a case was lodged, following which the accused was arrested.

The woman reportedly told police that she had forgotten to lock the door to her roof from inside while going to bed, through which the man entered the house.

The mans genitals were partly slit in self-defence. We have arrested the accused while the rape survivor is being sent for medical examination," Banka Town SHO Shambhu Yadav told TOI on Saturday.
LOS ANGELES, July 1 (Xinhua) -- The European Space Agency (ESA)'s Euclid spacecraft was launched from the U.S. state of Florida on Saturday, starting its mission to study dark matter and dark energy of the universe.

The Euclid spacecraft lifted off from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida at 11:12 a.m. Eastern Time (1512 GMT) on Saturday.

Following the launch, the ESA confirmed the acquisition of signal from Euclid via the New Norcia ground station in Australia.

The successful launch marks the beginning of an ambitious mission to uncover the nature of two mysterious components of the universe: dark matter and dark energy. This will help answer the fundamental question of what the universe is made of, according to the ESA.

Euclid will observe billions of galaxies out to 10 billion light-years to create the largest and most accurate 3D map of the universe, with the third dimension representing time itself.

This detailed chart of the shape, position and movement of galaxies will reveal how matter is distributed across immense distances and how the expansion of the universe has evolved over cosmic history, enabling astronomers to infer the properties of dark energy and dark matter, according to the ESA.

"By studying the 'dark side' of our universe, Euclid is not only paving the way for NASA's Roman Space Telescope. It is igniting a new golden age of survey astronomy that will help us understand our universe's history and structure in ways that were not possible before," said Nicola Fox, associate administrator for NASA's Science Mission Directorate in Washington. 
Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Sunday announced that the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government would not pay the lawyers fee of Rs 55 lakh for Uttar Pradeshs gangster-turned-politician Mukhtar Ansari to fight a case in the Supreme Court and the amount should be recovered from the former Congress Home minister.

Ansari is currently lodged at the Central Jail of Punjab serving a life sentence in 32-year-old Awadesh Narain murder case. Mann, in a tweet, said that Ansari was kept in a jail in Punjab because of his friendship with leaders from the Congress. This money will be recovered from then Home Minister Amarinder Singh and Jails Minister Sukhjinder Randhawa. In case of non-payment, their pension and other government benefits will be cancelled, tweeted Mann.

The AAP government has accused the previous Congress regime of providing VIP treatment to Ansari when he was lodged at Rupnagar jail in the state.

Senior minister Harjot Singh Bains had in the assembly session alleged that Ansari was kept in Rupnagar jail for two years and three months after a fake First Information Report (FIR) was lodged against him. He (Ansari) was given VIP treatment and his wife stayed with him. Five-star facilities were given to him," the Minister told the House, adding, It is a serious issue. I am a jails minister and I came across a case in which gangster Mukhtar Ansari was kept in Rupnagar jail for two years and three months.

The Minister said the Uttar Pradesh government had to move the Supreme Court to get Ansaris custody.

He further said senior lawyers were engaged to save Ansari by the then state government and the fee of a lawyer was Rs 11 lakh for appearing in the case. He also claimed a bill of Rs 55 lakh on account of fee of the advocates. Why should we pay Rs 55 lakh for keeping a gangster? I have ordered registration of FIR in the case, Bains had said.
WORLD UFO DAY 2023: People have always been curious about outer space. While many believe living cells can only be found on the earth, there are several instances when people got to notice a saucer-shaped object taking a round across the sky, sparking the concept of aliens or inhabitants of other planets. Every year on July 2, the world celebrates UFO Day, an occasion which is dedicated to unidentified flying objects. The special day raises awareness about the concept of UFOs, encouraging people to watch the sky which can enable the opportunity to sight such devices more often.

Due to certain reasons, World UFO Day was earlier commemorated on two different dates June 24 and July 2. In a bid to clear off the confusion,the World UFO Day Organization (WUFODO) designated July 2 as the official date for the celebration. The first UFO Day was celebrated by researcher Haktan Akdogan in 2001.

World UFO Day 2023 History

On June 24 in 1947, Americanaviator-cum- businessman Kenneth Arnold revealed his story of a UFO sighting, which was the first of such reports in the United States. Arnold claimed that he spotted a string of nine, shiny flying objects flying around Mount Rainier. As estimated by him, the speed of those unidentified objects was a minimum of 1,200 miles per hour. Arnolds sighting was the reason behind celebrating World UFO Day on June 24.

The day July 2 came into consideration following the popular Roswell incident a suspected UFO crash, which also occurred in 1947. A team of officers from the Roswell Army Air Field recovered balloon debris from a farm in New Mexico. Among other things, the debris reportedly included a flying disc. But the US government allegedly tried to hide the truth, altering the report issued by the Roswell Army Air Field. Referring to the occurrence, theWUFODO began observing World UFO Day on July 2 to highlight the undoubted existence of UFOs.

Some Notable Facts About UFOs

Following the Arnold report, many other UFO sightings were recorded in America, forcing the US Air Force to begin an investigation into these sightings, under the name Operation Sign. Thanks to the results of the inquiry, the US Air Force established Project Blue Book, which had its main office in Dayton, Ohio. The Blue Book project gathered information on more than 12,000 UFO sightings between 1947 and 1969.

The earliest mention of a UFO in India was recorded in 10,000-year-old rock paintings discovered in Chhattisgarhs Bastar area. Several reports of UFO encounters along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) came to light in 2013. The most recent report of a sighting came in 2014 when some people in Lucknow spotted a flying saucer in the night sky.

In a serious effort for UFO-related research, NASA announced a new study in June of 2022 that it will appoint some leading aero scientists to analyse unidentified aerial phenomena.

How To Celebrate World UFO Day

On this special day, those who believe in the existence of UFOs are encouraged to spread awareness about such objects among other people. They can observe the night sky together and take part in UFO-related activities. People can also watch films related to UFOs and extraterrestrial life to gather more knowledge about such objects.
2023 seems to be a good year for actress Alia Bhatt as she will soon be seen in Karan Johars magnum opus Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahani. The film has been making the headlines for all the right reasons and the excitement of the fans has been amped up further after the makers released the first song Tum Kya Mile. While the film featuring Alia with her real life BFF Ranveer Singh is still a month away, the audience are eager to catch a glimpse of the trailer. And it seems the wait is finally coming to an end.

For more: Alia Bhatt FINALLY Reveals The Trailer Launch Date Of Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahani; Check It Out

Varun Dhawan and Jawan director Atlee are teaming up for their next action thriller. The film is yet to be titled by the makers but they have revealed the releasing date. It will be hitting the silver screen on May 24, 2024. This has surely increased the excitement level among fans as they are eagerly waiting for the other details including the first-look poster.

For more: Varun Dhawan And Atlees Untitled Action Thriller To Release On This Date; Deets Inside

Pregnant Ileana DCruz has shared yet another glimpse of her mystery man with fans. On Saturday, the Bollywood actress took to her Instagram Stories to reveal she is spending the night indoors with her man and their dog. Ileana shared a photo of the man but refrained from revealing his identity. Instead, she shared in the photo that he loves their dog.

For more: Pregnant Ileana DCruz Gives a Close Glimpse of Her Mystery Man, Hints at Cooking Dinner For Him

A day after Parineeti Chopra and Raghav Chadha shared photos from their visit to the Golden Temple in Amritsar, a video of the couple offering seva at the shrine has surfaced online. The Bollywood actress and the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader, who are soon going to get married, joined fellow devotees to not only offer prayers but also perform seva at the holy shrine. In a video going viral, Parineeti and Raghav were seen washing dishes as they were surrounded by bystanders.

For more: Parineeti Chopra, Raghav Chadha Wash Dishes at Golden Temple as Part of Seva; Video Goes Viral

Tamannaah Bhatia and Vijay Varma who are dating in real life, have been receiving rave reviews for their sizzling on-screen chemistry in Lust Stories 2. The talented duo starred together in Sujoy Ghoshs segment in the Netflix anthology. While they continue to create a massive buzz for the same, a behind-the-scene from the sets of their outing has gone viral that perfectly captured some rare moments between Tamannaah and Vijay.

For more: Vijay Varma Cant Take His Eyes Off Ladylove Tamannaah Bhatia in New Video; Watch
Nargis had closely worked with the Kapoor family, especially with Raj Kapoor. The duo delivered several blockbusters, including Barsaat (1949), Aah (1953), Shree 420 (1955), and Chori Chori (1956). However, did you know that her family objected her from working with Raj Kapoor in Awaara (1951)? Shammi Kapoor, in an old interview, once revealed that Nargis was so eager to work with Raj on Awaara that she promised Shammi that if things worked out, she would give him a kiss.

Speaking with Quint, Shammi said, Once I met Nargis ji. I was in school and she was shooting my brother Rajs film Barsaat. One day I found her in a pensive mood. She wanted to work in Raj bhais next film Awaara, but her family was not ready, there were some rumours about them. I told her, keep faith in yourself and God, surely her family would not let go this opportunity as she was on the path of becoming a big star. She told me, If gharwale maan gaye toh I will give you a kiss."

However, when the deal came through and Nargis was taken on board of Awaara, the actress backed out from her promise. She felt that Shammi had grown up from a boy to a man and offered to buy him a gift instead of coming through with her promise of a kiss.

You know, Barsaat became a big hit and Raj Kapoor started his Awaara and Nargis was his heroine. By that time I had finished my school, joined and left college, started working with my father Prithiviraj Kapoors drama theatre, company roaming all around the country. By chance, I met Nargisji again in RK studio. She saw me and said I remember my promise, but now you are a grown up man, so ask for something else. I said, Gramophone, he added.

Awaara went on to become one of the biggest hits of its time, with the film boosting of timeless classics such as Awaara Hoon, Hum Tujhse Mohabbat Kar Ke  both sung by Mukesh  and Ghar Aaya Mera Pardesi sung by Lata Mangeshkar.
Akshay Kumar and Katrina Kaif have delivered a number of blockbusters in the past. From Namastey London to Welcome, their chemistry set the screen on fire in the 2000s. However, did you know, Akshay ignored Katrina during their intial interactions of their first film together, Humko Deewana Kar Gaye (2006)? In a video going viral, Katrina opened up about her first meeting with the actor and revealed that he threw attitude at her.

In a video shared by a fan on Instagram, Akshay Kumar, Katrina Kaif and Farah Khan were seen promoting Tees Maar Khan when the actor-duo opened up about their first meeting. Katrina revealed that she met Akshay for the first time at Firoz A. Nadiadwalas office and he brushed her off and walked off despite her greeting him. They crossed paths again at Amitabh Bachchans birthday party and Akshay brushed her off yet again.

Akshay then revealed that the duo then met on the sets of Humko Deewana Kar Gaye and he ignored her there as well. Akshay teased that she went crying to someone, who fans believed was Salman Khan, and complained to him about Akshay. He revealed that Katrina explained how bad (he) is, that he doesnt talk to her and that he along with the cast spoke only in Punjabi.

It seems that the duo eventually worked things out and went on deliver several blockbusters together. Akshay and Katrina were last seen together in 2020s Sooryavanshi, which was a hit that year.

While fans are hoping they reunite, Akshay Kumar and Katrina Kaif have been busy with their respective projects. Akshay will be seen in OMG: Oh My God 2 this year whereas Katrina has Merry Christmas with Vijay Sethupathi. The actress works with Sriram Raghavan.
As Prime Minister Narendra Modi sets corruption as the primary agenda for the upcoming general elections in 2024, it may perhaps be timely to look at how different Prime Ministers of India have been affected by it. And there cannot be a bigger case study of a Prime Minister abusing his power for dubious deals than that of Rajiv Gandhi. While his family members who came to power before him were also accused of being corrupt and abusive of their position, Rajiv seemed to have taken the baton several goalposts ahead.

Prime Minister Modi, earlier in the week at an election rally in Bhopal, did not hold back when he accused the Congress of siphoning off several lakh crore rupees. He also attacked the other Opposition parties that have been allies of the Congress for many decades, and have enjoyed unhindered support from the GOP to wipe away money from the Indian government treasury  a sum total of over Rs 20 lakh crore. PM Modi has been able to launch a full-force attack of this nature, primarily because he has been successful in running a corruption-free government over the last nine years in the country and for eleven years as Chief Minister of Gujarat prior to that.

When it comes to protecting public money, ensuring that it gets used only for the benefit of the people of the country, Modi has been uncompromising. Now, in a stark contrast, let us consider Rajiv Gandhis prime-ministerial tenure. The Congress of today continues to paint Rajiv as Mr Clean of Indian politics, continuing the narrative that the Congress in 1885 worked very hard to build. The narrative-building efforts were so strong that Rajiv himself, at the Congress centenary celebrations in 1986, delivered an impactful speech in which he attacked his own party members as being dalaals and running the party as their jagir.

The context here is important because, this is also around the time it came to light that agents  during the Indira Gandhi regime  had taken about 7 percent bribe in the purchase of German HDW submarines, amounting to Rs 330 crore (Rs 7,000 crore in todays calculation). These agents also made concessions to the technical specifications and requirements in the submarines, specified by the Indian Navy, whose stated requirements, for instance, for the diving depth was 350 metres, but the HDW submarines could only achieve a diving depth of 250 metres. The cost of the submarines mysteriously increased to Rs 465 crore  such a sudden rise pushed the then Defence Minister, VP Singh, to order that attempts be made to renegotiate the price and bring it down, since it was clear that the Germans were overcharging. In a response to his order, the Indian Ambassador in Germany clarified that the HDW officials were unwilling to renegotiate the price since the 7 percent commission given to Indian agents was included and already paid.

This submarine purchase deal carried over to Rajivs tenure and despite all the efforts of his party and ecosystem to paint him as the reluctant, honest, technocrat thrown into the corridors of power, he seemed adept at playing the power game just like previous members of his family. As the HDW submarine scandal broke, VP Singh ordered an inquiry into the accusations of Indians having taken a 7 percent commission. This led to differences between him and Rajiv Gandhi, and the former had to resign from the Union cabinet within three days of ordering the investigation.

Rajiv Gandhi, while holding the charge of the Defence Ministry, closed a large purchase deal with the Swedish Arms manufacturer, AB Bofors, for 400 field howitzers for a price of $1.4 billion (Rs 11.5 thousand crore), which amounts to about $5.1 billion today (about Rs 43 thousand crore).

The news first broke on the Swedish national radio about a year after the deal was signed, that middlemen in India had been paid a large commission for this deal. Pressure built on Rajiv to investigate and name these middlemen and perhaps in an instantaneous moment he announced in Parliament that neither he nor anyone close to him had received any kickbacks for the Bofors deal. This outright lie was one that compromised him  no one was pointing fingers at him before his impulsive outburst.

Meanwhile, the Indian Ambassador in Sweden learned that even while the negotiations led by Rajiv Gandhi were ongoing with the two shortlisted companies for the arms purchase French firm Sofma and AB Bofors  Rajiv Gandhi while on a visit to Sweden to condole Swedish PM Olaf Palmes death had assured the incumbent Prime Minister Ingvar Carlsson that the purchase order will go to the Swedish firm, as opposed to the Sofma. This was eight days before the negotiations officially concluded and a purchase order was issued.

As further pressure built, Rajiv Gandhi was forced to allow his government to press the Swedish government to conduct an investigation in Sweden as to who in India were the kickbacks given to by Bofors. However, Rajiv stalled this investigation by assuring the Swedish Prime Minister that Bofors had already clarified to him that no money was paid to middlemen in India and thus, no investigation was necessary. On Rajivs insistence, the Swedish government stalled the inquiry. However, as pressure continued to mount on Rajiv, he accused people of his own party of conspiring with international forces to bring down his government, using the Bofors deal as an excuse. Following which, he expelled several leaders within the Congress who had begun to point fingers at him.

Meanwhile, further investigations and journalistic reports revealed that three firms had been paid in their Swiss bank accounts  two of which were owned by Hinduja brothers and Vin Chaddha. It was the third firm, AE Services, which linked Rajiv and the family directly to this deal. The investigations and a personal diary of the CEO of AB Bofors eventually revealed that AE Services was owned by Ottavio Quattrocchi, an Italian businessman with close links to Sonia and Rajiv Gandhi. The two families were so close that even the children had reportedly grown up playing together.

Quattrocchi was stationed in India for several years before the Bofors deal and had been similarly acquiring large government contracts, starting with fertilizers. By the time the Bofors deal was closed, it was well known in the corridors that Quattrocchi was the man for the job  for big-ticket procurements in the Rajiv government.

As the investigation continued and more and more details began to emerge of the deal, the public sentiment against Rajiv Gandhi grew. There was immense anger and slogans like, gali gali mein shor hai, Rajiv Gandhi chor hai and ab yeh spasht hai, Rajiv Gandhi brasht hai began to echo on the streets. Rajiv and the Congress lost the forthcoming elections, due to this mass public anger. However, even after Rajivs death, his wife Sonia Gandhi as well as the consequent Congress governments reportedly went out of their way to protect Quattrocchi  whether it was by allowing him to leave India despite orders of his passport to be impounded, hiding the fact that the Interpol had arrested him for weeks to win some state elections, or even Priyanka and other family members meeting their old pal, Quattrochhis son, at a party thrown by a Congressman.

From Mr Clean to Rajiv Gandhi chor hai  it has been a tough journey for the Gandhis. These revelations were scathing and have stuck to them over the years. No matter how much Rahul and Priyanka try to wipe their fathers image clean, the reality is that public memory isnt short when it comes to allowing foreign firms to loot Indian money  money which could be used for the development of the country. A barrage of scams, repeatedly in the Congress regime, which followed and preceded the Bofors, has ensured that the corruption tag from the GOP simply cannot be wiped off, regardless of the thousands of crores spent in media management and brand rebuilding.

(This op-ed is Part 1 of a multi-part series.)

Priyam Gandhi-Mody is an author of three best-selling books, her most recent one being A Nation to Protect. Her next book is scheduled to release in October 2023.
In a dramatic turn of events, Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) leader Ajit Pawar took oath as the second deputy chief minister of Maharashtra at Raj Bhawan in Mumbai on Sunday with the support of around 30 NCP MLAs, out of whom eight were inducted into CM Eknath Shindes cabinet.

LIVE | Ajit Pawar Takes Oath as Maharashtra Deputy CM

The sudden development took place after Ajit Pawar called a meeting of NCP MLAs days after he offered to resign as Leader of the Opposition (LoP), requesting that he should be given organisational responsibilities.

Besides Ajit, NCP senior leader Chhagan Bhujbal, Dilip Walse Patil, Hassan Mushrif, Dharmarao Baba Atram, Aditi Sunil Tatkare, Sanjay Bansode and Anil Patil were also sworn-in as ministers in the NDA government.

Political reactions started to pour in as the political development turned into one of the biggest power-play of the year so far.

Ajit Pawar Claims Control of NCP, Praises PM Modi

NCP leader and new Maharashtra Deputy CM Ajit Pawar said all the MLAs were with him, including the senior members of the party and that they have not split the NCP.

ALSO READ: Ajits Pawar Play in Maharashtra: His Role in NCP & State Government | From 2019 to 2023

He highlighted that if the NCP can join hands with the BJP in Nagaland and asked why this cannot be done for the betterment of Maharashtra and its people.

Addressing a press conference after the ceremony, Ajit Pawar said that Weve spoken with higher-ups.We have all the numbers, all MLAs are with me. We are here as a party. We have informed all seniors also. The majority is given importance in a democracy."

Pawar also praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi saying that the country is progressing under his leadership. He is also popular in other countries. Everyone supports him and appreciates his leadership," he said.

He added that they will fight the upcoming Lok Sabha and Assembly elections with the saffron party but in the name of NCP only. He asserted control over NCP and said the party will fight elections as NCP. Our faction is real NCP," he said, adding the party name and symbol will be with him.

Thankful to PM Modi: Sharad Pawar on NCP Split

NCP chief Sharad Pawar, addressing the media after his nephew Ajit Pawar was sworn in as Maharashtra Deputy CM, said that it was an individual decision and he had no involvement in it.

Two days ago the PM had said about NCP He had said two things in his statement that NCP is a finished party. He mentioned irrigation complaints and allegations of corruption. I am happy that some of my colleagues have taken the oath. From this (joining the NDA government) it is clear that all the charges have been cleared. I am thankful to him.

Sharad said the rebellion was not a big thing" and that he would address the issue during a public meeting on Monday. The NCP chief called the rebellion within his party robbery".

The NCP supremo said he did not receive a single call from Ajit Pawar regarding the move and party members who rebelled are not my personal enemies." He further vowed to strengthen the party and said he would take action against rebel leaders.

Pawar hinted at action against rebels. Those who violated the party line and took an oath, a decision has to be taken on them," he said.

Sharad said Modi is Coming Back as PM in 2024: Bhujabal

After Sharad Pawar claimed that Narendra Modi is coming back as the Prime Minister in 2024, Maharashtra Minister Chhagan Bhujabal said they saw this as a positive gesture and decided to join the NDA government for development.

We have joined the government as its third party. A few people are saying that we have split the party but that is not correct. We have come here as the NCP. We have also criticised the Modi government on many occasions but it is true that the country is safe in his hands," he said.

Victory for PM Modi, Ajit Pawar Was Sidelined: CM Shinde

Maharashtra CM Eknath Shinde took a dig at NCP leader Sharad Pawar and said, When a good political leader is sidelined, such incidents happen. The MVA has broken. This is a victory for PM Modi. Ajit Dada has joined us. Cabinet expansion will happen soon."

Shinde welcomed Ajit Pawar and eight other NCP leaders induction into his government and said the MLA from Baramati always followed developmental politics. With Ajits entry, Shinde said and now the double-engine government will become a triple-engine government.

The CM said Sharad Pawar has been clean-bowled twice and his government is working for the welfare of Maharashtra. When a good leader is sidelined, such things happen. Our MLAs will become ministers in the upcoming days. Our leaders are mature, and there is no ego, he said.

No Pressure from Anyone: Praful Patel

NCP working president Praful Patel, who apparently sided with Ajit Pawar and was seen at Raj Bhavan today, said the decision to join the NDA was a collective one. Sharad Pawar is a highly respectable person. Whatever decision we have taken as Ajit Pawar mentioned in his press conference, it is the partys decision, a collective decision. There is no pressure from anyone, he said.

BJP Carrying Out Operation Lotus: Maha Cong Chief

Maharashtra Congress chief Nana Patole said the BJP-led government at the Centre is misusing federal agencies to carry out Operation Lotus".

The BJP is carrying out Operation Lotusruining the politics of the countryBJP can do anything for power, they either scare members of other parties using ED and CBI or else will offer them money,, he said.

NCP Means Sharad Pawar: New LoP Jitendra Awhad

NCPs Jitendra Awhad who was appointed as the new Leader of Opposition after Ajit Pawar stepped down from the post due to his new position as the Maharashtra Deputy CM, says Nationalist Congress Party means Sharad Pawar and the party symbol is with the party chief. The statement came after Ajit Pawar said his faction is the real NCP and laid claims over the party symbol.

Awhad said Sharad Pawar-led NCP will fight the elections and will come to power.

BJP Wants to Eliminate Oppn Using Money Power, Agencies: Gehlot

Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot targeted the BJP over the political developments in Maharashtra, saying the party wants to eliminate" the Opposition on the basis of money power and central agencies.

The political developments that have taken place in Maharashtra today show that the BJP wants to eliminate the opposition parties on the basis of money power and central agencies. It is highly condemnable," Gehlot said in a tweet.

He further said, All the leaders, including Ajit Pawar, whom the BJP used to accuse of corruption till yesterday, were inducted in the cabinet. The BJP has been nervous ever since the opposition parties started coming together, due to which it is breaking regional parties by putting pressure from central agencies." No matter how much the BJP tries, the public has decided that it will give a befitting reply when the time comes to thwart these attempts to kill democracy," the senior Congress leader said.

Kharge, Rahul Gandhi Speak with NCP Chief Sharad Pawar, Extend Support

Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge and party leader Rahul Gandhi spoke with NCP chief Sharad Pawar on Sunday and extended support to him, after the Maharashtra strongman faced a revolt by his nephew Ajit Pawar who along eight other leaders joined the Eknath Shinde-led government.

The Congress said that the BJPs washing machine" has resumed its operations as a number of these leaders had been facing serious corruption charges and have now got a clean chit".

Congress president Kharge and Gandhi spoke with NCP president Sharad Pawar and extended support to him, AICC general secretary K C Venugopal said on Twitter.

The BJPs dirty tricks department is working on overdrive in Maharashtra. This is not a legitimately elected government, but an ED-facilitated power grab. The Maharashtra government is a product of corruption and sin," Venugopal alleged.

The people have very well identified the traitors, corrupt and compromised leaders of Maharashtra and each of them will be taught the lessons of their lifetime in the next elections," he said.

Mahesh Tapases Reaction To Ajit Pawars Switch

NCPs Mahesh Tapase hit out at Ajit Pawars move and said all party workers are with Sharad Pawar and called the oath-taking a part of Operation Lotus".

Those who have taken the oath, its their personal decision. We all are with Sharad Pawar," Tapase said.

AIMIMs Waris Pathan Says Pawar Jumped Ship Because of Possible ED Probes

Waris Pathan, AIMIM leader and Maharashtra minister told News 18 that those taking oath were facing ED investigation".

Shiv SenaS (UBT) Priyanka Chaturvedi said in a tweet BJP should be the last party in the country talking about ideological alliances".

Principles be damned, BJP should be the last party in the country talking about ideological alliances. They are just political opportunists wanting power at any cost. With the latest development in Maharashtra, those MLAs who were corrupt & were jailed are now being sworn in as ministers!" she said.

Principles be damned, BJP should be the last party in the country talking about ideological alliances. They are just political opportunists wanting power at any cost. With the latest development in Maharashtra, those MLAs who were corrupt & were jailed are now being sworn in as Priyanka Chaturvedi (@priyankac19) July 2, 2023

As many as eight NCP MLAs are expected to be included in the Eknath Shinde-led Maharashtra Cabinet expansion. The names include Chhagan Bhujbal, Hasan Mushrif, Dilip Walse Patil, Dhananjay Munde, Aditi Tatkare, Anil Bhaidas Patil, Baburao Atram and Sanjay Bansode.

Raj Thackeray Calls Ajit Pawars Political Switch Sharad Pawars Masterstroke

Maharashtra Navanirman Sena (MNS) chief Raj Thackeray took to Twitter to say that Ajit Pawar joining hands with the BJP was Sharad Pawars move to get rid of Uddhav Thackeray.

         .       ,      .  ()      ,        !   Raj Thackeray (@RajThackeray) July 2, 2023

Shindes Future Uncertain: Sanjay Raut on Ajit Pawars Entry

Shiv Sena (UBT) spokesperson Sanjay Raut said that the move by Ajit Pawar shows that Shindes future is in jeopardy.

They needed the support of Ajit Pawar and his supporters despite having close to 170 MLAs supporting the government. This shows that they are scared of the SC verdict and Eknath Shinde and his supporters about to be disqualified and he is going to lose the CMs chair," he said.

Kapil Sibal on Ajit Pawars Power-play

Senior Congress leader Kapil Sibal said in a tweet, I guess this is the mother of democracy that Modiji was talking about in his address to the US Congress!"

Ajit Pawar(NCP)To be sworn in as Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra along with 9 others as Ministers in the Shinde led government I guess this is the mother of democracy that Modiji was talking about in his address to the US Congress !  Kapil Sibal (@KapilSibal) July 2, 2023

Akhilesh Yadav on Maharashtra Coup

Maharashtra has become a new laboratory for BJP, by hook or crook BJP wants to be in Government," said Akhilesh Yadav.

Something Similar Happened in 2019

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) won 105 seats in the Maharashtra Assembly elections, the results of which were announced on October 24, 2019.

The Shiv Sena, which was in alliance with the BJP, won 56 seats.

Despite having enough seats to form a government together, the two allies bickered over power-sharing  who will get the chief ministers post being the bone of contention  resulting in the Shiv Sena starting negotiations with the ideologically different Congress and NCP instead.

With no outcome in sight then, the Centre imposed Presidents Rule in Maharashtra on November 12. The Shiv Sena, Congress and NCP continued negotiation, and Sharad Pawar later announced that Uddhav Thackeray had been unanimously chosen to head the new government.

However, in one of the biggest political surprises in Maharashtra, then-Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari swore in Devendra Fadnavis as the Chief Minister and Ajit Pawar as Deputy Chief Minister in an early morning swearing-in on November 23.
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Addressing the media after the ceremony, Shinde said, Now we have 1 Chief Minister and 2 Deputy Chief Ministers. The double-engine government has now become triple engine. For the development of Maharashtra, I welcome Ajit Pawar and his leaders. Ajit Pawars experience will help strengthen Maharashtra.

The fast-paced political developments came after a routine meeting of his supporting MLAs and within hours, the decision was taken to walk out of the NCP.

This afternoon, Pawar, along with several NCP heavyweights, went to Raj Bhavan to meet Governor Ramesh Bais and hand over a letter of support signed by around three-dozen MLAs.

Soon afterwards, Shinde, Fadnavis, BJP state President Chandrashekhar Bawankule and other senior leaders of the ruling alliance also rushed to Raj Bhavan.

Pawars visit to Raj Bhawan comes amid rumours of him being upset about being denied the post of partys state unit chief.

Earlier, Ajit Pawar had offered to resign from the post of Leader of Opposition, seeking an organisational responsibility. The party discussed the matter on Wednesday at the national executive of the party in Delhi and the final decision is expected in two months.
Nationalist Congress Partys (NCP) Ajit Pawar on Sunday took oath as Deputy Chief Minister at Raj Bhawan and joined the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) government in Maharashtra led by CM Eknath Shinde.

The move comes days after the reshuffle in NCP. So where does the party stand now?

#LIVE | Ajit Pawar takes oath as Maharashtra Deputy CM in Sunday shocker, 8 more NCP leaders join cabinet; other top news https://t.co/bFjLdEiYuD News18 (@CNNnews18) July 2, 2023

THE MAY 2 RESIGNATION SHOCK

After the debacle of the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) under then CM Uddhav Thackeray, there were unconfirmed reports about how the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) was keen to have another partner to win maximum Lok Sabha seats in Maharashtra. There were talks that one camp of the NCP was in touch with the BJP and had even approached Ajit Pawar.

ALSO READ | Ajit Pawar News LIVE Updates HERE

In the middle of all this, Sharad Pawar on May 2 suddenly announced his decision to step down as NCP president on May 2. Leaders across parties and party workers urged him to reconsider the decision. NCPs national vice-president Praful Patel on May 5 announced that the party has unanimously rejected Sharad Pawars resignation as the outfits supremo.

"PM's double engine government in Maharashtra has now become 'triple engine' government. It will now run at the speed of a bullet train": CM Eknath Shinde after Ajit Pawar's oath-taking ceremony@AnchorAnandN @vinivdvc | #Maharashtra #MaharashtraPolitics pic.twitter.com/Uy8n2btReY News18 (@CNNnews18) July 2, 2023

WORKING PRESIDENTS: SUPRIYA SULE AND PRAFUL PATEL

On the Nationalist Congress Partys foundation day on June 10, Sharad Pawar, the party supremo, on the partys 24th foundation day, announced the names of Supriya Sule and Praful Patel as the working presidents of the party. This is the first time that the NCP will have the post of working president.

As the working president, Sule was given the responsibility of Maharashtra, Haryana and Punjab, whereas Patel got Goa, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan. Both leaders represent the NCP in Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha, and also have contacts across parties.

ALSO READ | Ajits Pawar Play in Maharashtra: His Role in NCP & State Government | From 2019 to 2023

By appointing two working presidents, Pawar gave them responsibilities of different states. The next step was to mentor a leader, so that after the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, they run the show when Pawar steps down.

Patel has already made it clear that he is not in the running to become national president. Hence, in such a scenario, the partys Lok Sabha face Sule is likely to take over as the national president after the all-important elections next year.

Pawar has also given the responsibility of Maharashtra to Sule, which could be a hint that she could be the next boss. She was awarded the best parliamentarian award more than a couple of times and has good connections across all parties.

CADRE GALVANISED, BUT NEW CHALLENGE AHEAD

With his resignation saga, Pawar created space in the hearts and minds of young party workers again, with a clear agenda to fight the BJP head-on. Pawar also got the confidence that the young brigade of his party is with him, which has boosted his energy levels.

ALSO READ | Certain Things Were Done to Expose BJPs Lust for Power: Sharad Pawar on Fadnaviss Claims

He started his tours of rural Maharashtra and made speeches against the BJP.

However, Ajit Pawars new twist of joining the Maharashtra government, has added a new challenge ahead of the party.
BRS president and Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao on Sunday called for a radical change in the traditional decades-old existing governance and administrative system and to move forward with the goal of welfare, development and upliftment of all sections.

Speaking after several ex-servicemen from Maharashtra, who joined the Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) here, Rao, also known as KCR asserted a qualitative change will be achieved only by Parivartan Bharat (India Transformation).

Leaders of ex-Military Associations and ex-servicemen from Maharashtra joined the BRS party in the presence of KCR, who welcomed them into the party fold by offering them the pink (party) scarves, an official release said.

KCR said that it was a remarkable occasion that the soldiers of the country were coming forward to establish the Farmers Regime" on a call of Ab ki baar kisan sarkar.

The BRS chief explained about the various development and welfare schemes which were being implemented in Telangana.

Rao called upon the ex-servicemen that the time has come to rededicate themselves and continue their duty as heroic soldiers to bring a qualitative change in the lives of the people in Maharashtra.

Ex-soldier and secretary of Fauji Janata Party from Nashik district Bapurao Pagare joined the BRS, the release said adding along with him several other former army personnel, who have served in various ranks in the India Army joined the BRS party.

After renaming the TRS as BRS in December last year, Rao addressed rallies in neighbouring Maharashtra in recent months as part of plans to expand the party. The BRS has seen leaders from different parties and trade unions from Maharashtra and other states joining the KCR-led party during the last couple of months.

.
Participants march and chant slogans at a rally protesting the Supreme Court's ruling against affirmative action on Harvard University Campus in Cambridge, Massachusetts, the United States, on July 1, 2023. The U.S. Supreme Court on Thursday ruled that race-conscious admissions policies used by colleges and universities are unconstitutional, in a pair of cases involving Harvard University and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

The Supreme Court stated that the admissions policies of Harvard and the University of North Carolina (UNC), two of the oldest institutions of higher learning in the country, violated the equal protection clause of the 14th Amendment to the United States Constitution. (Photo by Ziyu Julian Zhu/Xinhua)

Participants march and chant slogans at a rally protesting the Supreme Court's ruling against affirmative action on Harvard University Campus in Cambridge, Massachusetts, the United States, on July 1, 2023. The U.S. Supreme Court on Thursday ruled that race-conscious admissions policies used by colleges and universities are unconstitutional, in a pair of cases involving Harvard University and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

The Supreme Court stated that the admissions policies of Harvard and the University of North Carolina (UNC), two of the oldest institutions of higher learning in the country, violated the equal protection clause of the 14th Amendment to the United States Constitution. (Photo by Ziyu Julian Zhu/Xinhua)

Participants march and chant slogans at a rally protesting the Supreme Court's ruling against affirmative action on Harvard University Campus in Cambridge, Massachusetts, the United States, on July 1, 2023. The U.S. Supreme Court on Thursday ruled that race-conscious admissions policies used by colleges and universities are unconstitutional, in a pair of cases involving Harvard University and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

The Supreme Court stated that the admissions policies of Harvard and the University of North Carolina (UNC), two of the oldest institutions of higher learning in the country, violated the equal protection clause of the 14th Amendment to the United States Constitution. (Photo by Ziyu Julian Zhu/Xinhua)

Participants march and chant slogans at a rally protesting the Supreme Court's ruling against affirmative action on Harvard University Campus in Cambridge, Massachusetts, the United States, on July 1, 2023. The U.S. Supreme Court on Thursday ruled that race-conscious admissions policies used by colleges and universities are unconstitutional, in a pair of cases involving Harvard University and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

The Supreme Court stated that the admissions policies of Harvard and the University of North Carolina (UNC), two of the oldest institutions of higher learning in the country, violated the equal protection clause of the 14th Amendment to the United States Constitution. (Photo by Ziyu Julian Zhu/Xinhua)

Participants march and chant slogans at a rally protesting the Supreme Court's ruling against affirmative action on Harvard University Campus in Cambridge, Massachusetts, the United States, on July 1, 2023. The U.S. Supreme Court on Thursday ruled that race-conscious admissions policies used by colleges and universities are unconstitutional, in a pair of cases involving Harvard University and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

The Supreme Court stated that the admissions policies of Harvard and the University of North Carolina (UNC), two of the oldest institutions of higher learning in the country, violated the equal protection clause of the 14th Amendment to the United States Constitution. (Photo by Ziyu Julian Zhu/Xinhua)

Participants march and chant slogans at a rally protesting the Supreme Court's ruling against affirmative action on Harvard University Campus in Cambridge, Massachusetts, the United States, on July 1, 2023. The U.S. Supreme Court on Thursday ruled that race-conscious admissions policies used by colleges and universities are unconstitutional, in a pair of cases involving Harvard University and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

The Supreme Court stated that the admissions policies of Harvard and the University of North Carolina (UNC), two of the oldest institutions of higher learning in the country, violated the equal protection clause of the 14th Amendment to the United States Constitution. (Photo by Ziyu Julian Zhu/Xinhua)
After one year of split in Shiv Sena, which led to the fall of Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) government in Maharashtra, alliance partner Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) joined the Eknath Shinde government on Sunday, with Ajit Pawar taking oath as the Deputy CM of Maharashtra for the fifth time.

In the Congress-NCP government in 2009, Ajit served as the Deputy CM in Prithviraj and Ashok Chavans cabinet. In 2019, Ajit took oath again in early morning swearing-in in the Devendra Fadnavis cabinet, but the government lasted only for a few days before Uddhav Thackeray took over as Chief Minister and Ajit was again sworn in as Deputy CM. And today, his political life comes a full circle when he took oath for the fifth time as the Deputy CM.

Ajit started his political career by contesting in the 1991-92 Lok Sabha elections from Baramati. Later, he vacated the seat for his uncle and NCP supremo Sharad Pawar, who became the defence minister in the Narsimha Rao government. Ajit had been representing the Baramati state assembly constituency from 1995 to 2019.

He started his career as junior minister. In 1991-92, when he returned to the state politics, Ajit served as the state minister of agriculture and power in the Sudhakar Naiks government. Between 1992 and 1993, when Sharad Pawar came back to the state as CM, Ajit served as junior minister and took over the soil conservation portfolio.

But in 1999, when the Congress-NCP government came to the power, Ajit was elevated as the irrigation minister in the Vilasrao Deshmukhs government. During the Sushilkumar Shinde government between 2003 and 2004, Ajit was given an additional charge of rural development.

In 2019, Ajit took oath as the Deputy Chief Minister under two different Chief Ministers. First, in early morning swearing-in, he took oath as Deputy CM in Fadnavis government, which lasted for a few days. Then, he again took oath as Deputy CM in Uddhav Thackeray-led MVA government.

Since 2019, Ajits family members and relatives have been troubled by the central agencies, with offices of his son in Mumbai being raided. Both of Ajits sisters houses in Pune and other properties also came under the scanner of central agencies.

NCP MLAs and MPs, who have extended their support to Ajit, includes Chaggan Bhujbal, who had faced the ED inquiry, Hasan Mushrif who is also under ED scanner. Both leaders took oath as ministers today.

Interestingly, Sunil Tatkares daughter Aditi, who served as junior minister in the MVA, was also given a cabinet seat in the Shinde government. Former home minister of Maharashtra Dilip Walse Patil, who was considered as close aid of Sharad Pawar, was also sworn in as minister today.

It is learnt that Ajit was resentful after being denied a bigger role in the party while he expressed his desire to get relieved from the responsibility of the Leader of Opposition (LOP). The party leadership had not taken any decision on his demand during the last meeting of national leaders in Delhi.

But before Sharad Pawar could have decided the fate of Ajit, he along with 30-35 MLAs have given his support to the Shinde-Fadnavis government.

State Assembly speaker Rahul Narvekar confirmed to media that he has accepted the resignation of Ajit Pawar as the LOP.
In a stunning turn of events, NCP leader Ajit Pawar claimed control over the party on Sunday as he became the second deputy chief minister of Maharashtra, and eight other MLAs were inducted into the Eknath Shinde-led Maharashtra government  a move that his uncle and party chief, Sharad Pawar, termed as robbery."

NCP chief Sharad Pawars daughter and partys working president, Supriya Sule, stated in a late-night press conference that her father has spoken elaborately on the political developments in the state and clarified that party members are not just her colleagues but family members." Pawar saheb has treated everyone as a family members, she said.

Responding to questions related to split in the party, she said in a democracy, everyone has their personal opinion. For me dada (Ajit Pawar) will always be my elder brother. I will not argue with him, she said.

Here are the top developments in the Maharashtra political upheaval:
After he joined the Eknath Shinde-led Maharashtra government as deputy chief minister, Ajit Pawar on Sunday that all the MLAs were with him, including the senior members of the party and that they have not split the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP).

Addressing a press conference after the ceremony, Pawar said that Weve spoken with higher ups.We have all the numbers, all MLAs are with me. We are here as a party. We have informed all seniors also. The majority is given importance in a democracy." Follow Live Updates Here

Pawar highlighted that if the NCP can join hands with the BJP in Nagaland, why cannot this be done for the betterment of Maharashtra and its people.

Pawar also praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi saying that the country is progressing under his leadership. He is also popular in other countries. Everyone supports him and appreciates his leadership," he said.

Pawar added that they will fight the upcoming Lok Sabha and Assembly elections with the saffron party but in the name of NCP only.

ALSO READ | Ajit Pawar Ticks Off His Maha Ambition, BJP Pleased to Destroy MVA, How Will This New Set-Up Play Out?

..Most of our MLAs are satisfied with this. We have supported this govt with NCP Party. We will contest all elections in the name of NCP only.." he said.

Several people will criticise now a bit. We dont give value to that and we will keep working for the progress of Maharashtra and that is why we have taken this decision," Pawar added.

Not splitting NCP, says Chhagan Bhujabal

Maharashtra Minister Chhagan Bhujabal, who also addressed the presser, said, We have joined the government as its third party. Few people are saying that we have split the party but that is not correct. We have come here as NCP. We have also criticised Modi govt on many occasions but it is true that the country is safe in his hands."

How has Sharad Pawar reacted?

Reacting to the development, NCP chief Sharad Pawar addressed the media and said he did not receive a single call" for his nephew Ajit regarding any of this and that party MLAs and senior leaders will together decide any action against the rebel leader.

It is the right of the speaker to decide about of the leader of the Opposition. In the next two-three days, we will sit with Congress and Uddhav Thackeray to access the situation. Our main strength is the common people, they have elected us, Sharad Pawar said.

What has happened?

In a huge political upheaval, Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) leader Ajit Pawar on Sunday reached Raj Bhawan along with 29 party MLAs, including Hassan Musharraf and Chhagan Bhujbal and joined Chief Minister Eknath Shinde-led Maharashtra government.

Pawar, who was the Leader of the Opposition (LoP) in the Maharashtra Assembly, was sworn in as the Deputy Chief Minister in Chief Minister Eknath Shindes cabinet. He will share the post of Maharashtras Dy CM along with BJPs Devendra Fadnavis.

The presence of NCP president Sharad Pawar and partys working president Supriya Sule at the Opposition meeting in Patna had irked Ajit Pawar and his supporters, sources said. While Ajit Pawar was sworn in as the deputy chief minister by Governor Ramesh Bais at the ceremony held in the Raj Bhawan, eight other NCP leaders took oath as ministers.

Those who were sworn in as ministers are Chhagan Bhujbal, Dilip Walse Patil, Hasan Mushrif, Dhananjay Munde, Aditi Tatkare, Dharmarao Atram, Anil Patil and Sanjay Bansode.
Rahul Kanal-a close aide of Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Aaditya Thackeray- who joined the ruling Shiv Sena faction on Saturday, demanded a detailed probe into the deaths of actor Sushant Singh Rajput and his ex-manager Disha Salian.

Addressing the media after switching over to Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde-led faction of Shiv Sena, Kanal said that some people are saying he changed sides because the current government initiated a probe in Disha Salian and Sushant Singh Rajput death cases.

Kanal, who is also a restaurateur and a known name in Bollywood circles, said probe will be an apt reply to people levelling allegations against him, and if his name crops up during the investigation, he will leave politics and you can whip me with your shoes."

Kanal joined the Shiv Sena in the presence of Shinde, his son and MP Shrikant Shinde, and other party MLAs on Saturday.

If my name crops up then you can whip me with your shoes. There is a need for a detailed investigation and I can go anywhere for this, he added talking about the case.

Probe Still On

The development came days after Maharashtra Deputy CM Devendra Fadnavis, in an interview, said that an investigation into the Sushant Singh Rajput case is still underway and that the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) is probing the case from all angles.

Fadnavis also talked about Salians case and said that police were still recording statements matter and the probe has not been closed.

At first, the information available was based on hearsay. However, some individuals asserted that they possessed substantial evidence regarding the case. In response, we reached out to them and requested that they submit the evidence to the police," Fadnavis told Republic.

Currently, we are in the process of examining the credibility of the presented evidence. The investigation is still in progress, and it would be premature for me to provide any comments on the eventual outcome of the case at this stage," the politician added.

Sushant Singh Rajput & Disha Salian Death Cases

Sushant Singh Rajput was found hanging in his Mumbai apartment in June 2020. Starting with the Mumbai Police, the Enforcement Directorate (ED), Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) were brought in to investigate various angles in the death of Sushant Singh Rajput.

Salian, who was Rajputs talent manager, fell to her death from a highrise building on June 8, 2020, days before the actor was found dead in his house.

Soon after several conspiracy theories claimed both Salian and Rajput were murdered, with several BJP leaders (then in Opposition) levelling allegations against Aaditya Thackeray and some other Sena leaders.
NCP chief Sharad Pawar on Sunday said that his nephew Ajit Pawars decision to jump ship and be sworn in as the Deputy Chief Minister in the Maharashtra government, led by Shiv Sena and BJP, was not a big thing" and that he would address the issue during a public meeting on Monday.

READ MORE | Weve Spoken with Higher Ups: Ajit Pawar Claims Control of NCP, Explains Why He Joined NDA

Addressing the media, the veteran leader said two days ago Prime Minister Narendra Modi had made a statement about the NCP. He mentioned two things in his statement: that the NCP is a finished party and he referred to the irrigation complaint and allegations of corruption."

I am happy that some of my colleagues have taken the oath. From their joining the NDA government, it is clear that all the charges have been cleared. I am thankful to him," he added.

Ajit Pawar was earlier sworn in as deputy chief minister in the Eknath Shinde government, while eight others, including Dilip Walse Patil and Chhagan Bhujbal, were made ministers.

The NCP chief called the rebellion within his party as robbery". This is not googly, it is a robbery. It is not a small thing," he said.

I had called a meeting of all the leaders on July 6 where some important issue was to be discussed and some changes were to be made within the party but before that meeting, some of the leaders have taken a different stand," Pawar said.

He said the leadership crisis in the NCP was not a new thing" as he had faced a similar situation within the party in 1980s. The party I was leading in 1980 had 58 MLAs, later all left and only 6 MLAs left. But I strengthened the numbers and those who left me lost in their constituencies," he said.

The NCP supremo said that while he did not receive a single call from Ajit," the party members who rebelled are not my personal enemies."

He further vowed to strengthen the party and said he would take action against some leaders. MLAs and all senior leaders will sit together to decide about any action against the rebel leaders. Being the president, I had appointed Praful Patel and Sunil Tatkare but they did not follow their responsibilities. Therefore, I have to take some action against them," he said.

NCPs Patel and Tatkare Abandoned Guidelines

He said Patel and Tatkare for abandoned" guidelines and took a wrong path". I am not upset with anybody except Praful Patel and Tatkare. I had appointed them as general secretaries but they abandoned the guidelines of the party president and took the wrong path. They have no right to remain in that position," the NCP chief said. Tatkare, whose daughter Aditi took oath as minister earlier in the day, was appointed as the national general secretary of NCP.

Pawar has hinted at action against rebels. Those who violated the party line and took oath, a decision has to be taken on them," he said.

He also said he would be to travel as much as possible within state and the country and build relations with people."

Expressing confidence, Sharad Pawar said I am not bothered that people have left, but I am worried for their future."

With the Leader of Opposition in the Maharashtra Assembly stepping down from the post due to his new role in the Shinde cabinet, Sharad Pawar said he will discuss the matter with the Congress and Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray. It is the right of the speaker to decide about the Leader of the Opposition. In the next two-three days, we will sit with Congress and Uddhav Thackeray to access the situation. Our main strength is the common people, they have elected us," he said.

Meanwhile, Ajit Pawar claimed control over NCP, calling his faction as the real" party and said he decided to become part of the Eknath Shinde government for the development of the country, and praised Prime Minister Narendra Modis leadership.

He dismissed split in the Nationalist Congress Party and said they would contest all the future elections on the NCPs name and symbol.

The country is progressing under the leadership of PM Modi. He is also popular in other countries. Everyone supports him and appreciates his leadership," he said defending his decision to share power with the BJP.

We will fight the upcoming Lok Sabha and Assembly elections with them (BJP) and that is why we have taken this decision," he added.

Without naming Ajit, Sharad Pawar criticised the rebelling leaders who praised PM Modis leadership, stating that he couldnt comprehend what had changed over the past four years since the 2019 Assembly polls. Four years ago, when we faced elections, our target was Modi, and we were Modis target. Now, after opposing (him) for four years, what suddenly happened today? The real thing is they wanted to go as they needed power," he said.

Meanwhile, Pawar further said the Maharashtra cabinet will be expanded soon and the portfolios will be announced in a couple of days.

Congress Leadership Dial Sharad Pawar, Extend Support

Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge, CPP chairperson Sonia Gandhi and party leader Rahul Gandhi spoke to Sharad Pawar regarding the situation and extended support.

washing machine

Congress general secretary (organisation) K C Venugopal said, The BJPs dirty tricks department is working on overdrive in Maharashtra. This is not a legitimately elected government, but an ED-facilitated power grab. The Maharashtra government is a product of corruption and sin. The people have very well identified the traitors, corrupt and compromised leaders of Maharashtra and each of them will be taught the lessons of their lifetime in the next elections.On June 29, PM Modi had spoken about corruption. It appears he switched on theand these leaders are now squeaky clean after this oath taking ceremony.
Uniform Civil Code Updates: Sticking to its stand that uniform civil code (UCC) is undesirable at this stage, the Congress on Saturday decided to wait for the next move of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led government over the issue and noted that it will comment further if a draft bill or a report on UCC comes up.

When theres a draft and a discussion we will participate and examine what is proposed. As of now, all we have is the law commission public notice for responses. The Congress reiterates the statement as nothing new has happened," Congress general secretary Jairam Ramesh said on Saturday.

Congresss move came after it publicly denounce the Law Commissions decision to again examine the UCC on a reference made by the Law Ministry and Prime Minister Narendra Modis subsequent pitch on the issue later. The party alleged the Law Commissions latest attempt to seek fresh public opinion on UCC represents the Narendra Modi governments desperation for continuing with its agenda of polarisation and diversion from its failures.

The grand old partys top leadership held its parliamentary strategy group meeting on Saturday where it was decided UCC will be among the partys main issues to be raised during the Monsoon session of Parliament beginning July 20.

The congress is also planning to base its argument against UCC during Mondays Parliamentary Standing Committee meeting on the consultation paper issued by the Law Commission in 2018, in which it said that such a code is neither necessary nor desirable at this stage, Deccan Herald reported quoting the source.

The debate over the UCC was initiated after the Law Commission had on June 14 initiated a fresh consultation process over the issue by seeking views from stakeholders, including public and recognised religious organisations, on the politically sensitive issue.

UCC Latest Updates

Mayawati supports Uniform Civil Code: A day before Parliamentary Standing Committee on the Uniform Civil Code, Bahujan Samaj Party supremo Mayawati on Sunday said that her party is not against implementing the proposed law.

However, she hit out at BJP for politicising the issue and claimed that the saffron party was raking up the issue to divert the attention of the public from everyday issues.

The implementation of UCC will strengthen the country and unite Indians. It will also develop a sense of brotherhood among people. The forceful implementation of UCC is not right, politicising this issue will create problems. The government should currently focus on issues like inflation, unemployment, education and healthcare," the BSP chief said.

Our party (BSP) is not against the implementation of UCC but we do not support the way BJP is trying to implement Uniform Civil Code in the country. It is not right to politicise this issue and forcefully implement UCC in the country," she added.

Kerala Muslim Body Indicates Opposition to Uniform Civil Code: Muslim organisations appear to be staunchly against the Centres push for a Uniform Civil Code (UCC) in the country, with the Samastha Kerala Jem-iyyathul Ulama  a Sunni-Shafii scholarly body  on Sunday indicating its opposition to the proposed law.

Speaking out against the UCC, Muhammad Jifri Muthukkoya, president of Samastha Kerala Jem-iyyathul Ulama, told reporters today that not just Muslims, but even other religions  Christianity, Buddhism, Jainism, etc,  would not be able to accept the UCC.

He said that as far as Muslims were concerned, marriages, divorce, inheritance or succession are all part of their religion and there are certain rules and regulations which have to be followed for them to become valid.

BJP Moves to Recharge Core Voters: With the crucial Lok Sabha elections less than a year away, PM Modi earlier this week gave a strong push to a Uniform Civil Code (UCC) making it clear he plans to fulfil one of the prominent election promises that has been pending for long and hoping to recharge the partys core constituency of voters.

Modis strong pitch for the UCC came as the party has fulfilled its promises of abrogation of Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir and the construction of a Ram temple in Ayodhya which is underway,and was a part of the BJPs core manifesto agenda. Now in the list of unfulfilled promises of the BJP and its ideological body Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh, remains the implementation of the UCC.

Move to Divert Peoples Attention?: Days after PM Modi pitched for the UCC in Madhya Pradeshs Bhopal, the Congress has hit back at the government dubbing it as a tool" to divert attention from real issues and it represents the Modi governments desperation for a legitimate justification of its continuing agenda of polarisation.

For Himanta, UCC Keys to Consolidation of Hindu Votes: Assam is one of the few BJP states where there has been a vocal push for adopting the Uniform Civil Code (UCC), with Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma leading the charge.

Sarma stated numerous times over the past few months that UCC is the need of the hour. No Muslim woman in the country wants her husband to have three wives. You only need to ask a Muslim woman, nobody will suggest that her husband should marry three women," Sarma mentioned recently.

Sarma claimed that it was not a Hindu community problem, but rather an issue of Muslim mothers and sisters when a Muslim man marries more than one woman. He asserted that the UCC must be implemented for Muslim mothers and women to be respected in society following the passage of the triple talaq law.

Congress Minister in Himachal Extends Support to UCC: A first-timer Congress minister in Himachal Pradesh on Saturday extended support to UCC, but questioned the BJP over its timing.

We have said that whenever Uniform Civil Code comes, we will support it. Congress has always contributed towards taking unity and integrity forward, PWD Minister Vikramaditya Singh told the media.

But the main issue at present is Manipur, which has been burning for nearly two months and is on the verge of a civil war. No action has been taken against the Manipur Chief Minister, said Singh, the son of six-time Chief Minister late Virbhadra Singh.

Without mincing words, Singh added, The BJP doesnt speak of the burning issues in the country and starts a new debate to mislead the people.

UCC Initiative to End Reservation, Says JD-U: Bihar Building Construction Minister Ashok Choudhary on Saturday said that the implementation of the Uniform Civil Code is an attempt to end the reservation in the country.

Today the government is bringing UCC in the country. Then they will stop the reservation. They (government) will ask why Dalit, EBC, OBC are getting reservation? This should be stopped. We appeal to every person to oppose this bill. UCC is an initiative to end reservation in the country, Choudhary said.

He said that the implementation of UCC should be opposed by every Muslim, Dalit, OBC and EBC in the country as the BJP government under this policy wants to implement one law for every person.

What is UCC?: The UCC refers to a common set of laws that are applicable to all the citizens of India that is not based on religion and dealing with marriage, divorce, inheritance and adoption among other personal matters.

People privy to the development believe that pitching the issue of UCC just a year ahead of the crucial polls might prove beneficial for BJP as it hopes that it will once again give a clear message to its core voters.

As per sources, heated debates on the UCC might help the party to recharge the BJPs core constituency.
Maharashtra industries minister Uday Samant welcomed NCP leader Ajit Pawar to the Mahayuti fold, led by chief minister Eknath Shinde and his deputy Devendra Fadnavis. He said Ajit dada will complement the progressive state government with his strong hold over administration.

Samant was speaking at a press conference in Mumbai on Sunday, after Ajit took oath as the second deputy CM of the state. Ajit dada has a strong hold over administration. He will be complementing the progressive government of Shinde-Fadnavis. Shiv Sena welcomes Ajit Pawar into the Mahayuti family. His role in building the NCP is important, he will give more power to our alliance. We will contest elections together under the leadership of the three party leaders and Delhi BJP decision-makers guidance, he said.

The Shiv Sena leader heaped praise on Shinde and Fadnavis for inducting Ajit into the government as deputy CM. Some people had started raising doubts about Eknath Shinde saheb not appreciating the move. But Shinde and Fadnavis are both mature leaders and mutually took the decision. The CM is taking everyone along with the aim of the development of Maharashtra, he said.

He shrugged off any possibility of disruptions or disputes in the existing government. There, it might be chemical locha, here it is chemistry. Comfort level and space have been adequately given so there is no scope for disturbance or dispute. Just as we are under Shindes leadership, BJP and NCP party men (workers) follow their respective leaders. The remaining portfolios will be allotted to leaders and the three leaders will unanimously decide, he added.

Samant came down heavily on the Shiv Sena (UBT) for name-calling Sena leaders and terming them as traitors. He said Ajits oath episode was a positive day for Maharashtra as people saw what the previous government was doing to its own leaders.

I appreciate Sharad Pawar saheb for not name-calling anyone in the NCP. Whereas, they (Sena UBT) resorted to cheap and petty name-calling. Parties that ignore merit face dissent, he said.
Nokia said on Friday it had signed a new long-term patent license agreement with Apple, as the current license between the companies expires at the end of 2023.

While terms of the agreement remain confidential between the companies, it covers Nokias inventions in 5G and other technologies.

Nokia said the company expects to recognize revenue related to the agreement starting January 2024, and it is consistent with the companys long-term outlook disclosed in the first quarter.

Nokias patent portfolio is built on more than 140 billion euros ($152.70 billion) invested in research & development and is composed of around 20,000 patents, including over 5,500 declared essential to 5G, the Finnish company said.

The agreement reflects the strength of Nokias patent portfolio, decades-long investments in R&D, and contributions to cellular standards and other technologies, said Jenni Lukander, president of Nokia Technologies.
A video which is currently going viral shows a heated fight in a Vistara airlines aircraft. According to the caption of the video, a man was seen screaming and yelling at another man after his daughter was touched by him. The video has been uploaded on Twitter handle Ghar Ke Kalesh. You can also hear a woman screaming How dare you. However, no face is visible. The crew members are trying to calm people down and neutralise the situation but the man seems to be out of control.

Also Read: Woman Proposes to Her Bf At Kedarnath, Video Sparks Discussion About Using Phones At Religious Places

The video, which has now gone viral, was uploaded on Twitter. The video has now gathered over 46K views with multiple people sharing it and tagging Vistara Airlines.

Here is the viral video:

Kalesh Inside the vistara flight b/w Two man over a guy touched another man Daughter pic.twitter.com/BTlS1EHhma Ghar Ke Kalesh (@gharkekalesh) July 2, 2023

Meanwhile, earlier, in another plane related incident, a video which went viral showed a man losing his calm over a crying baby. The incident took place on a Southwest Airlines Flight to Florida. The video first surfaced on TikTok under the title Belligerent passenger causes diversion. It was then re-shared on other social media platforms. The incident was recorded by a passenger on the flight when the unidentified man was trading heated arguments with two flight attendants. The angry passenger is recorded hurling profanities at the flight crew multiple times to express his frustration.

Also Read: Better Than All Stars in Milky Way: Mothers Touching Reaction On Daughters PhD Thesis Goes Viral

One crew member can be heard saying, Youre yelling. The angry man replies, So is the baby. At one point in the video, the woman seated beside the upset passenger was captured placing their head in their hands in a fed-up gesture.
The micro-blogging site suffered an outage on Saturday when several users globally reported issues. People were unable to refresh their feeds and access their tweets. According to Down Detector, approximately 4,000 users in the US reported issues with Twitter during the outage. #WTF Twitter, Twitter Down, Oh Twitter tags started trending on social platforms.

Also Read: Cake That Looks Like Instagram Chat: Mans Surprise For Friend He Met Online Impresses Internet

With so many of them running to Twitter to tell Twitter that Twitter is down, memes started surfacing as users got no chill. Check out how Twitter down memes loaded up the social media site after users complained about not being able to load it temporarily.

Twitter Down now Elon Musk trying to fix the problem be like#TwitterDown pic.twitter.com/7OeWprN7CJ Ashutosh Srivastava (@sri_ashutosh08) March 1, 2023

Whenlife goes down Twitter goes down pic.twitter.com/k1SyErDOMj  (@VenkaT_PawanisT) July 2, 2023

twitter is still down bro pic.twitter.com/sAWKHEIzQL (@archiveofyjgw) July 2, 2023

me realizing i wont be able to see fujimoto's food updates or yaoi recommendations if twitter shuts down pic.twitter.com/Bh3XBynpSH sugar  (@mcsugarcane_) July 2, 2023

me, when twitter was down!pic.twitter.com/kcC2Qv4qvX Jeet Shah (@Mostly_Momentum) July 2, 2023

i feel like twitter being down is like a message to all of us to like get a life or something but no thanks pic.twitter.com/UAFj3IRI1J ITF (@lauraslayed) July 2, 2023

Also Read: Mans Undivided Attention To His Phone Stuns Internet

Meanwhile, Twitter also went down early in the month of February, aling with Instagram and Facebook as all of them crashed at once, leaving users with glitches and technical issues. For the bluebird app, the problem began when they tried sending a tweet but received a message that read, You are over the daily limit for sending Tweets". The outage, however, was reported as one of its first since Elon Musks takeover.
New Delhi:- In Sweden, on the burning of the Quran NATO Chief Jens Stoltenberg spoke in the morning that burning the Quran is Offensive and Objectionable but not that illegal. However, the Chief adjusted Swedens accession to NATO.

The United States on Thursday said it condemned the burning of the Quran outside a mosque in Sweden, but added that granting permission to demonstrate was in favour of freedom of expression, not action.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Thursday criticized the protest in Quran burning in Sweden would disturb the relationship or could be a problem to the countrys bid for membership in NATO.

Also Read:- UN Narrows the List of companies supporting Israeli Settlements

Erdogan told members of the Justice and Development Party that he equated "those who authorized crimes" with those who committed crimes. Swedish police have allowed protests outside a central Stockholm mosque on the grounds of freedom of expression after a court overturned a similar Koran-burning ban.

A man tore up and burned the Quran outside Stockholm's main mosque on Wednesday, the first day of the Islamic Eid al Adha holidays. This action infuriates Turkey, which should support Sweden's accession to the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO).

US State Department spokesman Matt Miller said at a daily press conference that the US government believed the demonstrations had created an "environment of fear" that effectively restricted the ability of Muslims to practice their religion freely. "We're going to say we condemn it," Miller said.

Also Read:- UK environment minister quits with Swipe at Uninterested PM Sunak

"We believe this demonstration will create an environment of fear and affect the ability of Muslims and members of other religious minorities in Sweden to freely exercise their rights to freedom of religion and belief." added.

"We also believe that granting permission to this demonstration supports freedom of expression, not the conduct of the demonstration." Swedish police had allowed anti-Quran protests. But after the fire, police accused the man who started the fire of hate speech against an ethnic or national group.

Following Russia's invasion of Ukraine last year, Sweden sought NATO membership. But Turkey, an ally, has stalled the process, accusing Sweden of harboring people it considers terrorists and demanding their extradition. Miller declined to say whether the demonstrations and their aftermath would affect Turkey-Swedish relations and thus NATO membership but reiterated the US position that the Nordic countries are ready to join the alliance.

Also Read:- Ukraine Announces the first charges for deporting orphans from Kherson

"The time has come for Sweden to become a full member of NATO," he said. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan criticized Sweden for burning the Koran in Stockholm and said Turkey would never yield to its policy of provocation and intimidation.

The Quran was burned in front of a mosque in Sweden on Wednesday and on Millers reaction was not as insulting as it depicted the practices of the Muslims and the NATO Chief said it is not illegal but also offensive to burn a Quran.
China is positive towards providing further development assistance to Nepal, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Home Affairs Narayan Kaji Shrestha said on Sunday.

Talking to reporters here, Shrestha said he held extensive discussions with the Chinese leaders focusing on strengthening bilateral relations, promoting trade, investment and economic development.

Shrestha said he found Chinese officials positive towards assisting Nepal in its development endeavours.

We asked China to increase its economic assistance to Nepal when we prioritize the goals for economic development and prosperity, Shrestha said at the Tribhuvan International Airport after arriving here from China following a five-day visit.

Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng and Communist Party of China Sichuan Province Chief Wang Xiaohui assured that they would take Nepals proposal seriously, Shrestha added.

During the meeting with the Chinese Vice-Premier, discussions were held on promoting bilateral trade, tourism, investment, connectivity, scaling of Chinas assistance to Nepal among others, he said.

Shrestha said he thanked the government of China for its significant assistance to Nepal during the hour of crisis such as earthquake, and COVID-19 pandemic.

He said his meetings with the Chinese leaders also focussed on the implementation of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) project.

The Chinese side was optimistic about Nepals preparedness to take benefits from projects under the BRI, he said. In response, we briefed them about Nepals plans and steps regarding the BRI, he added.

Shrestha also held talks with office bearers of Sichuan Airlines on operating flights from Chengdu to new airports in Nepal. The airline was positive about the matter, he informed.

During the meeting, the Nepal side asked China to add Chengdu-Kathmandu flights, and commercially begin flights from Chengdu to Pokhara and Bhairahawa International Airports in Nepal, Shrestha said.

We have urged them to run a Chengdu-Kathmandu flight daily. On the matter, they were positive. We have also asked them to start Chengdu-Pokhara and Chengdu-Bhairahawa direct commercial flights, he added.

During his visit, Shrestha also addressed the 19th Western China International Fair as the chief speaker.

On the occasion, he urged Chinese investors to invest in Nepal as the country has adopted a policy of encouraging, promoting and protecting foreign investments by carrying out reforms in its investment system.

Shrestha also inspected the Jinping Hydropower Project and Dujiangyan Irrigation System.
For the fifth consecutive night, France witnessed unrest, with rioters clashing with the police on Sunday.

The protestors targeted a mayors home with a burning car, but overall the violence appears to have decreased in intensity as compared to previous nights.

Till now, the police has made at least 719 arrests across the country, news agency Reuters reported.

The violence was triggered after a 17-year-old delivery driver, identified as Nahel, was shot and killed by a police officer Tuesday in the Paris suburb of Nanterre.

The death has unleashed tensions between angry residents setting barricades on fire and police firing tear gas.

Here are the latest updates on the France unrest-

Seven people were arrested from Switzerland after shop windows in the Swiss city of Lausanne were smashed as young people gathered in an echo of riots in neighboring France. Rioters on Saturday reportedly set fire to a residential building in Frances Grigny as violence continued. Extra forces and equipment were sent to Lyon, Grenoble and Marseille, which had previously seen intense rioting. The country activated 45,000 police and gendarmes across France Saturday night to quell riots. Protesters rammed a car into the home of the mayor of a town south of Paris, injuring his wife and one of his children, AFP reported quoting the mayor on Sunday. After midnight on Saturday, a small crowd gathered on the Champs-Elysees for a protest over Nahels death and police violence but met hundreds of officers with batons and shields guarding the iconic avenue and its Cartier and Dior boutiques. In a neighborhood of northern Paris, some protestors set of firecrackers and lit barricades on fire as police shot back with tear gas and stun grenades, Reuters reported. French President Emmanuel Macron has cancelled his Germany visit in light of the prevailing situation. This would have been the he first state visit by a French president to Germany in 23 years and Macron was scheduled to fly on Sunday. Frances justice minister, Dupond-Moretti on Saturdy warned that young people who share calls for violence on Snapchat or other apps could face legal prosecution. Macron has previously blamed social media for fueling violence and urged people not to share sensitive content on it. Earlier this week, Nahels mother talked with France 5 television and said, He (the police officer) saw a little Arab-looking kid. He wanted to take his life."

The protests over the death of the teen, who was of Algerian origin, have again exposed the severe racial tensions in modern France, increasing scrutiny on the police, who have long been accused of singling out minorities.
A video of two Colombian Air Force fighter planes colliding mid-air and bursting into flames killing two pilots at the Apiay Air Base on Saturday surfaced on social media and went viral.

The tragic accident took place when both aircraft were participating in a training exercise at the Apiay Air Base, Meta, a central Colombia, local radio network W Radio Colombia reported.

According to the statement released by the countrys Air Force, at least two pilots were killed in the fatal accident.

The @FuerzaAereaCol regrets to inform that two T-27 Tucano aircraft, on a training mission, crashed at the 2nd Air Combat Command," tweeted Colombian Air Force.

#NoticiaW | Asi fue el accidente de dos aeronaves de la Fuerza Aerea (@FuerzaAereaCol), en la base militar de Apiay, ubicada en Villavicencio, Meta. pic.twitter.com/juN9fiIFUF W Radio Colombia (@WRadioColombia) July 1, 2023

The video of the fatal crash shows a fleet of fighter planes going in circles during the training exercise when two T-27 Tucano aircraft collide and burst into flames.

Condoling the death of two pilots, Air Force added, We express our condolences and solidarity to the family of the deceased pilot, Lieutenant Colonel Mario Andres Espinosa Gonzalez (RIP) and to each of the men and women of the Institution. Pilots dont die, they just fly higher."
The Saudi-based Organisation of Islamic Cooperation on Sunday called for collective measures to avoid future Quran burnings, days after a copy was torched outside a Stockholm mosque.

The 57-member body met at its Jeddah headquarters to respond to Wednesdays incident in which an Iraqi citizen living in Sweden, Salwan Momika, 37, stomped on the Islamic holy book and set several pages alight.

It coincided with the start of the Eid al-Adha holiday and the end of the annual hajj pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia, sparking anger across the Muslim world.

On Sunday, the OIC urged member states to take unified and collective measures to prevent the recurrence of incidents of desecration of copies of the" Quran, according a statement released after the extraordinary" meeting.

The bodys secretary general, Hissein Brahim Taha, stressed the need to send a clear message that acts of desecration" of the Quran are not mere ordinary Islamophobia incidents," the statement said.

We must send constant reminders to the international community regarding the urgent application of international law, which clearly prohibits any advocacy of religious hatred."

Taha condemned Momikas Quran burning as a despicable act", echoing widespread denunciations that have included demonstrations near the Swedish embassy in Iraqs capital.

Countries including Iraq, Kuwait, the United Arab Emirates and Morocco have summoned Swedish ambassadors in protest.

On Sunday, Irans Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian said Iran is holding off sending its new ambassador to Sweden, Hojjatollah Faghani, over the burning of the Quran outside a mosque in Stockholm.

Swedish police had granted Momika a permit in line with free speech protections, but authorities later said they had opened an investigation over agitation".
New and expanded powers for British police took effect on Sunday, including measures targeting activists who stop traffic and major building works with protests.

Authorities have repeatedly condemned environmental protest groups, including Just Stop Oil and Extinction Rebellion, which have sought to raise awareness about the urgency of climate change by staging multiple high-profile protests at the busiest highways and roads. Their protests in recent years often caused serious disruption for motorists.

From Sunday, police will have powers to move static protests. Critics have argued the toughened laws are a threat to the right to protest, but U.K. officials say the measures were to stop disruption from a selfish minority.

The public have had enough of their lives being disrupted by selfish protesters. The mayhem weve seen on our streets has been a scandal, Home Secretary Suella Braverman said.

Authorities say that under the new Public Order Act, protesters found guilty of tunnelling  or digging underground tunnels to obstruct the building of new infrastructure works  could face three years in prison. Anyone found guilty of obstructing a major transportation project could be jailed for up to six months.

The law also makes locking on, or protesters attaching themselves to other people, objects or buildings, a criminal offense.

Hundreds of climate change protesters were arrested last year in the U.K. for blocking major roads and bridges. Many activists protested by sitting in the middle of the roads or gluing themselves to the roadway to make them harder to move.

The civil disobedience is a wave of direct action that has also seen activists glue themselves to famous museum paintings or throw soup at artworks to draw media attention to their cause.

Police have said its costly to deal with the protests and that they diverted thousands of officers from other work like dealing with crime.
On a visit to spotlight violence and chaos in Haiti, the UN secretary-general on Saturday called for a robust international effort to help the countrys beleaguered police in fighting rampant criminal gangs.

For months, Antonio Guterres has raised the alarm bell about the situation in the Western Hemispheres poorest country, which has been wracked by spiralling violence, a worsening public health situation and political instability.

But he traveled to Port-au-Prince  his first visit to Haiti as head of the United Nations  to make his point on the ground.

We must put Haiti on the international political map, and make the tragedy of the Haitian people the international communitys top priority," Guterres told a press conference.

I met Haitians, and I felt the exhaustion of a population that has been facing a cascade of crises and unbearable living conditions for too long," he said.

This is not the time to forget about Haiti," Guterres said after meeting with Prime Minister Ariel Henry, and other political and civil society leaders.

Guterres urged the UN Security Council, which is due to discuss the Haiti situation later this month, to authorize the immediate deployment of a robust international security force."

In October, he relayed Henrys request for a non-UN force to support the overwhelmed national police force.

But the call has gone unheeded. A few countries have indicated their willingness to participate, but none has volunteered to lead an operation in a country where multiple past foreign interventions have become mired.

I call on those states that have the capacity to provide a robust security force to stop hesitating and be ready to follow a Security Council decision," Guterres said.

Every day counts. If we dont act now, instability and violence will have a lasting impact on generations of Haitians."

- Widespread sexual violence -

UN officials in recent months have offered increasingly grim assessments of the impact of gang shootings, kidnappings and rapes on the Haitian population.

Port-au-Prince is surrounded by armed gangs blocking the main roads leading to the northern and southern departments, controlling access to water, food and health care," Guterres said Saturday.

He condemned in the strongest possible terms the widespread sexual violence used by armed gangs as a weapon to instill fear."

Earlier in the week, UNICEF executive director Catherine Russell said after a trip to Port-au-Prince that the world was failing the Haitian people."

She recounted the horrific story of an 11-year-old girl who was kidnapped by five men  and raped by three of them.

She was eight months pregnant when we spoke and gave birth just a few days later," Russell said, recalling that armed gangs control more than 60 percent of the capital and large swathes of the countryside.

Almost half the population, or 5.2 million people, are in need of humanitarian assistance, including almost three million children.

No elections have been held since 2016, and Henry, appointed prime minister just days before the assassination of president Jovenel Moise in July 2021, faces questions about his legitimacy.

Guterres said he had frank exchanges" with Henry and others about the need for a political agreement to put an end to the crisis," without offering specifics.

He called on civic leaders to overcome their personal interests and make concessions in order to facilitate the emergence of a common vision and a viable and credible electoral path."

After Haiti, Guterres travels to Trinidad and Tobago for a Caribbean Community (Caricom) summit, where issues surrounding Haiti will be discussed.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken also will attend the summit.
Description

"Sushi Savant  We sing about food and by extension, consumer culture. For those looking to brave heavier fare, we also perform songs about dystopian futures, the challenges of aging, unrequited love, sword-wielding geisha, and then to lighten things up, ponies and rainbows. We have a cumulative 240 years of musical experience, and thus, to our mind, have earned the self-proclaimed nickname Philosopher Kings of Rock n Roll.

It was over pasta with a meaty red sauce recalls Joe Gioglio. Yeah adds John Tabacco and Jim showed up to the diner with flow charts. I wanted to maximize our leverage explains Jim Pastor. The three Long Island songwriters emerged from their 2016 meeting with a collective mission: to get their set of diverse and original tunes heard. A bar gig and a WUSB Benefest later, the trio connected with rhythm master Gary Settoducato, whose past collaborations include The EVT Band, Hank Stone Band, and He-Bird, She-Bird. Gary brings a vast library of righteous grooves to the mix boasts Jim. Shaking his head, Gary adds Theres no laying back with these guys  so many time signature and tempo changes. The foursome played their eclectic blend at original music-friendly venues such as KJ Farrells and 89 North, eventually shuffling the roster a bit to invite Long Island music community stalwart Mike Christian, founding member of the popular genre-defying Grand Folk Railroad, to play bass. Sushi Savant is my new favorite band proclaims Mike. Their debut as a quintet was this past spring at The BACCA Arts Center in Lindenhurst.

For more, visit sushisavantband.com or facebook.com/sushisavant"
When you think of one of the largest power providers in the country, Georgia-based Southern Co., it's unlikely that any cloak-and-dagger escapades come to mind. But in a detailed report by Katherine Blunt of the Wall Street Journal , things are that strange. Southern has been dealing for over a year or so with a "peculiar espionage effort," writes Blunt. The company has yet to explain the situation to consumers, but the surveillance, focused on now-former CEO Tom Fanning, came to light last year as part of a lawsuit between two consultants who work for a company that contracts with Alabama Power, a subsidiary of Southern. The suit alleged that Alabama Power ordered the surveillance of Fanning "in order to possibly gain internal leverage," per the Journal.

Much is murky, however. Southern conducted its own investigation into all of the above but says it hasn't been able to figure out who ordered the spying or why. (Private investigators followed Fanning's mundane activities and logged visits to his girlfriend.) The lawsuit, however, provided some possible clues before it was settled. One of the consultants alleged that the other conducted the surveillance at the behest of Alabama Power execs in order to influence decision on major corporate decisions that were pending. The head of Alabama Power, Mark Crosswhite, "abruptly" announced his retirement amid the Southern investigation, even though he had been a prime candidate to replace the retiring Fanning, per the Journal. Crosswhite declined to comment on the convoluted tale. Read the full story. (Or check out other longforms.)
Soldiers assigned to 129th Area Support Medical Company and Forward Support MEDEVAC Platoon, 3rd Combat Aviation Brigade, 3rd Infantry Division conduct patient movement operations for aeromedical evacuation during a training while attending Saber Guardian 23 in Slobozia, Romania, June 1, 2023. Saber Guardian 23, a component of DEFENDER 23, is an exercise co-led by Romanian Land Forces and the U.S. Army at various locations in Romania to improve the integration of multinational combat forces by engaging in different events such as vehicle road marches, medical training exercises, and river crossings. (Photo by Staff Sgt. Laura Torres)
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TDT | Manama

The Daily Tribune  www.newsofbahrain.com

Bahrain has been granted the best office for pilgrims affairs award for garnering the highest satisfaction rate of pilgrims during the just concluded Hajj season.

This recognition was part of the "Labbaytum" Award given out by the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah in Saudi Arabia.

Nawaf bin Mohammad Al Maawda, the Minister of Justice, Islamic Affairs and Endowments, and Chairman of the Supreme Committee for Hajj and Umrah Affairs, emphasised that this accolade highlights the utmost importance placed on pilgrims' well-being, a priority championed by His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa.

The minister also acknowledged the invaluable support rendered to the committee by His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister.

The announcement came during the closing ceremony organised by the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah, which aimed to recognise the outstanding efforts of both government and private sectors in successfully executing this year's Hajj season.

Justice Minister Al Maawda affirmed that this achievement is a testament to the dedication of all the committees within Bahrain's Hajj mission, led by Shaikh Adnan bin Abdullah Al Qattan.
Key Insights

Institutions' substantial holdings in Lockheed Martin implies that they have significant influence over the company's share price

The top 15 shareholders own 51% of the company

Insiders have sold recently

Every investor in Lockheed Martin Corporation (NYSE:LMT) should be aware of the most powerful shareholder groups. The group holding the most number of shares in the company, around 75% to be precise, is institutions. 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 Lockheed Martin.

Check out our latest analysis for Lockheed Martin

What Does The Institutional Ownership Tell Us About Lockheed Martin?

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 Lockheed Martin 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 Lockheed Martin's historic earnings and revenue below, but keep in mind there's always more to the story.

Investors should note that institutions actually own more than half the company, so they can collectively wield significant power. Hedge funds don't have many shares in Lockheed Martin. State Street Global Advisors, Inc. is currently the largest shareholder, with 15% of shares outstanding. Meanwhile, the second and third largest shareholders, hold 8.7% and 6.6%, of the shares outstanding, respectively.

A closer look at our ownership figures suggests that the top 15 shareholders have a combined ownership of 51% implying that no single shareholder has a majority.

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 are plenty of analysts covering the stock, so it might be worth seeing what they are forecasting, too.

Insider Ownership Of Lockheed Martin

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. 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.

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 less than 1% of Lockheed Martin Corporation. It is a very large company, so it would be surprising to see insiders own a large proportion of the company. Though their holding amounts to less than 1%, we can see that board members collectively own US$95m worth of shares (at current prices). It is always good to see at least some insider ownership, but it might be worth checking if those insiders have been selling.

General Public Ownership

The general public-- including retail investors -- own 24% stake in the company, and hence can't easily be ignored. This size of ownership, while considerable, may not be enough to change company policy if the decision is not in sync with other large shareholders.

Next Steps:

While it is well worth considering the different groups that own a company, there are other factors that are even more important. To that end, you should be aware of the 2 warning signs we've spotted with Lockheed Martin .

Ultimately the future is most important. You can access this free report on analyst forecasts for the company.

NB: Figures in this article are calculated using data from the last twelve months, which refer to the 12-month period ending on the last date of the month the financial statement is dated. This may not be consistent with full year annual report figures.

Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com.



This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned.

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TDT | Manama

The Daily Tribune  www.newsofbahrain.com

Sabeer Nelli, a distinguished US fintech entrepreneur and founder of Zil Money Corporation (https://zilmoney. com), is charting new territory in Bahrain as the launchpad to expand his innovative fintech solutions. The strategic decision stems from the Kingdoms favourable regulations, strong financial sector, and role as the gateway to the Middle East.

Bahrains commitment to fostering growth in the fintech industry, particularly through efforts by the Bahrain Economic Development Board, has been a significant factor in Nellis expansion.

He also acknowledged Bahrains stature as a global hub for Islamic finance, stemming from the Central Bank of Bahrain (CBB) creating an ideal regulatory environment that has laid a solid foundation for sustainable fintech growth. Bahrains support for the industry through robust regulations aligns perfectly with my business ethics and the services I offer, said Nelli.

We are considering potential collaborations that can help leverage our expansion in this region.

Zil Money Corporation, the parent company of www.OnlineCheckWriter.com, www.ZilBank.com, and www.ZilMoney.com, is committed to developing innovative payment technologies.

These solutions cater to evolving business needs while maintaining conformity with Shariah. Nelli founded Zil Money to address the struggles of small businesses in managing their finances.

His fundamental banking principles revolve around socio-religious guidelines, which resonate deeply with the Middle Eastern audience, hence his decision to expand business operations to Bahrain.

Through ZilBank, Nelli aims to assist Bahraini individuals and businesses who aspire to set up a bank account in the US.

His vision is to enable non-US residents to remotely establish a bank account in the US. ZilBanks fee-free checking account only requires business details and a valid passport to set up.

Other key advantages of ZilBank include managing multiple bank accounts through the platform, instant money transfers between ZilBank accounts, and efficient ACH and wire transfers.

Having a US bank account enables entrepreneurs to receive US dollars directly, opening the door to abundant global market opportunities.

The financial service sector in Bahrain, being the second-largest industry after oil and gas, further solidifies why weve chosen the Kingdom as our business expansion platform, said Nelli.

Nelli recognizes the role of fintech in revolutionizing global financial services and promoting financial inclusion. His move to Bahrain highlights the agility of fintech firms to seize opportunities and adapt to diverse markets.

Nellis success in Bahrain could inspire more fintech firms to consider expansion into the Kingdom. His strategic move benefits his enterprise and enhances Bahrains position as a burgeoning fintech hub in the Middle East.
Kyodo - Jul 19

Former Nissan Motor Co. Chairman Carlos Ghosn, who fled Japan while awaiting trial, said Tuesday he has filed a criminal lawsuit in Lebanon against the Japanese company, vowing to make it pay for "the damage that cannot be repaired."




Former Governor of Abia State, Okezie Ikpeazu, has said African Development Bank, AfDB, has given final approval for a $115 million loan for road construction, erosion control and solid waste management in the State.





The former governor, who spoke through Onyebuchi Ememanka, his Chief Press Secretary, on Saturday, said the loans were initiated and achieved by his government for use by the successive administration.





The fund, according to him, is to be used for the construction of 190.43km of road in Aba and 58.03 km of road in Umuahia, the State capital.





Erosion control projects and solid waste management are also to be executed with the funds captured in the loan.





He expressed gratitude to God that the loan has, according to him, scaled the final approval hurdle, adding that the total funding cost of the projects is $263.80 million, while the Abia State Government would provide $23.80 million counterpart funds to be used in compensating people affected by the project and for implementation of settlement action plans.





Ikpeazu, who accused politicians of allegedly writing the National Assembly to stop the loan, berated their unpatriotic efforts but said he was happy that the loan became a reality.





He thanked some officials of his administration who played vital roles in making the loan a project.





While we worked on this facility, I understood clearly that the final approval would come after I had left office.





I wasnt bothered about that because since governance is a continuum, whoever will take over from me will implement it for the good of the people of Abia State, he said.





Ironically, some of these people are the ones in government today and who will superintendent over the management of the projects they desperately sought to frustrate.





The former Governor said the former administration under his watch started works on Port Harcourt road in Aba even when the loan had not been received.





The Obingwa-born politician said securing the loan was one of his most cherished objectives as Governor.





He said he had no regrets that the loan was not approved while he was still in power and advised the present administration in the State to work with the funds.





That the final approval came one month after I left office immaterial. The ball is now in the court of the present administration in the State, he said.





The state government is yet to confirm the approval of the AfDB loan as claimed by Ikepeazu.
Jeremy Hunt plans to clamp down on overzealous behaviour of lenders - Jordan Pettitt/PA

Banks are to be told by the Treasury that they must protect free speech amid an escalating row over the blacklisting of customers who hold controversial views.

Jeremy Hunt, the Chancellor, is understood to be deeply concerned that overzealous lenders are closing down accounts because they disagree with customers opinions and has asked City minister Andrew Griffith to investigate the issue.

Whitehall sources said that results of a consultation on the subject will be published within weeks, after it was launched earlier this year in the wake of PayPal blocking the accounts of free speech groups.

The controversy flared up again last week after the leading Brexiteer Nigel Farage revealed his account had been closed by his bank. A vicar was also dropped as a customer after criticising his lenders stance on LBGTQ+.

The Treasury is poised to recommend a more rigid notice period if payment providers, including high street lenders, want to close a customers account as well as requiring banks to provide more information about why they have decided to shut accounts. Regulators will be able to take action against banks that break the rules.

Officials believe that the recommendations can curb excessive behaviour by banks.

A senior Treasury source said: It is absolutely a concern. No one should have their bank account denied on the grounds of freedom of expression. We expect to take action on this issue within weeks.

Ministers are increasingly worried that there is a trend of closures affecting customers who hold controversial political views.

Mr Farage has been unable to find other lenders to accept his funds - Geoff Pugh

Mr Farage last week said his bank accounts were closed without explanation and other high street lenders refused to allow him to transfer his funds to them.

Anglican vicar Reverend Richard Fothergill claimed that his Yorkshire Building Society account was shuttered days after writing to the bank to complain about its public messaging during Pride month.

A spokesman for Yorkshire Building Society said the company never closes accounts based on different opinions or beliefs, adding an account was only ever closed if a customer is rude, abusive, violent or discriminates in any way.

Government sources stressed that even people with extreme views should be entitled to hold a bank account if they have not broken the law.

The Treasury source added: Banks and payment providers occupy a privileged place in society and it would be a concern if financial services were being denied to those exercising the right to lawful free speech.

Under current rules, regulators expect banks to give customers at least 30 days notice if they intend to close personal bank accounts.

However, they can give customers less than this in exceptional circumstances, such as if they suspect fraud or if the customer was threatening or abusive to staff.

In its consultation on payment services regulations, the Treasury said: The government is very clear that regulations must respect the balance of rights between users and service providers obligations, including in relation to protecting the freedom of expression of anyone expressing lawful views.

As a minimum, it is the governments view that, without deviation, a notice-period and fair and open communication with a customer must apply in situations which relate to termination on grounds other than suspected or actual criminal offences or when otherwise allowed by law.

Treasury ministers last week responded to concerns raised by Conservative MPs about customers who convey minority views having their accounts closed.

It came after Mr Farage said his personal and business accounts with a major retail bank were closed because of a commercial decision, and other high street lenders have refused to allow him to transfer his funds to them.

Several former Brexit Party MEPs have also said their bank accounts were shut after they were elected to the European Parliament.

Meanwhile, in June, Barclays was forced to pay over 20,000 compensation to Christian ministry groups, after closing their accounts due to pressure from LGBTQ+ activists, who were concerned about conversion therapy practices.

The Treasury has also given the City watchdog marching orders to review the operation of its politically exposed persons (PEPs) regime amid concerns that its application has been heavy handed.

Politicians and others classed as a PEP  ranging from British political leaders to the rulers of regimes in Africa and the Middle East  are subject to enhanced checks by banks to ensure they are complying with the law.

Regulatory guidance already differentiates between foreign PEPs and British politicians, who are less closely scrutinised because they are regarded as lower risk.

However, the Treasury is to amend its money laundering rules in the next 12 months to give this distinction greater weight. It has also ordered the Financial Conduct Authority to review whether banks are properly following the existing guidance.

The Telegraph is aware of at least two MPs who have contacted Mr Griffith as he looks into banks behaviour.

One MPs father faced trouble with the bank he had been with for 60 years when he was linked to the PEP system.

Another MPs mother was questioned about the politicians involvement in the purchase of her home, when the MP was only eight at the time.

Mr Griffith met with Toby Young, head of the Free Speech Union, earlier this year after the campaign groups PayPal accounts were closed in 2022.

Accounts owned by the FSU and the Daily Sceptic blog were frozen last September along with an account run by UsForThem, a group that campaigned for schools to reopen during the UKs Covid lockdown. The accounts were later reinstated.

Toby Youngs Free Speech Union had its accounts closed by PayPal - Andrew Crowley

Mr Young last night said he believed thousands of people have had their accounts closed.

He said: Im pleased this issue is on Jeremy Hunts radar, but I hope the investigation wont take too long. There is no doubt that thousands of people are being penalised by banks and payment services providers for exercising their right to lawful free speech.

Indeed, the Free Speech Union has been lobbying the Treasury to change the payment services regulations for the last nine months and submitted reams of evidence about the scale of the problem. Since then, it has only got worse. The Treasury urgently needs to change the regulations to prohibit this new and sinister form of cancel culture.

Some of the UKs biggest lenders, including Barclays and HSBC, are ranked highly in a Workplace Equality Index run by LGBT+ charity Stonewall, which aims to measure and improve their inclusion practice. HSBC is ranked 12th and Barclays 32nd, having moved up five places after a recalculation.

The charitys Diversity Champions scheme includes guidance to employers on gender-neutral spaces and the use of pronouns.

A number of high-profile organisations including The BBC, Channel 4, the Cabinet Office, the Department of Health have stopped working with Stonewall amid growing concern over the scheme.

Guidance has included describing mothers as a parent who has given birth, to remove gendered language, and allow those who self-identify as a woman to use female toilets and changing rooms.

Stonewall said that there were no requirements in its scheme for how companies engage with customers and it did not seek to influence operational decisions.

HSBC and Barclays were approached for comment.

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Abdullahi Adamu, national chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), says the executive and legislative arms of government must collaborate in the interest of citizens.

Speaking on Saturday when he received a delegation of senators led by Senate President Godswill Akpabio at his residence in Keffi, Nasarawa state, Adamu said Nigerians expect a lot from the new leadership of the national assembly.

The APC chairman said it was a great relief when Akpabio and Barau Jibrin, senator representing Kano north, were elected as senate president and deputy.

I congratulate you and your deputy on your emergence as the president of the senate and deputy president of the senate respectively, Adamu said.

Your emergence was a great relief to the party. Contests for offices are over; it is now time for governance. There must be effective collaboration between the legislature and the executive in the overall interest of our people.

Nigerians expect a lot through you and that can only be achieved through a united legislature and the executive working in sync in a bipartisan manner.

As the president of the senate and chairman of the national assembly, you have the knowledge, experience and what it takes for the two arms of government to work in harmony for the peace and development of our country.

On his part, Akpabio said the senate under his leadership would support the administration of President Bola Tinubu to succeed.

As I have been saying, the 10th national assembly will support the President Bola Tinubu-led administration to succeed. We will put laws in place to support the Renewed Hope agenda of this administration in the overall interest of national peace, unity and development, he said.

We are here to pay Sallah homage to a man (Adamu) of honour. To give respect to whom it is due. We thank the leadership of the party and the national working committee (NWC) through you for the role you played which led to the success of the national assembly leadership elections.

We also thank the Almighty Allah for keeping you alive and we pray that He keeps you alive in good health for more contributions to the development of the youth of this country.








Members of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, have been warned not to cause any friction between Agom Jarigbe, the Senator representing Cross River North Senatorial District and a former governor of Rivers State, Nyesom Wike, a bigwig of the party, as they prepare to elect a Minority Leader of the Upper Chamber.





This call was made by a socio-political group, Pathfinder 4 Unity.





In their statement made available to newsmen in Calabar and signed by Elder Arthur Etta, they noted that both share a special relationship.





They cautioned PDP members not to use their ambition to cause further disunity and faceoff amongst party leaders.





The group advised those interested in the position to be circumspect in what they dish out to the public.





They warned that those attempting to cause disaffection between the two because of political position would only end up being consumed.





According to them, Agom Jarigbe will not be distracted as he has made his intention clear that he is not interested in spite of several attempts to lure him.





It further noted that the relationship shared by the two has always been to ensure the promotion of good governance in the South-South and the country as a whole.





On the issue of the Senate Minority Leader, the group said there had been no discussions between Wike and the Senator.





The group said, Jarigbe has made his position known that he is not interested and that no one has consulted him on the position.





Our advice remains that anyone interested in that position to make known their attention and stop the blackmailing against Senator Jarigbe.




Four players are expected to sign contracts with Arsenal in the coming week.





Gunners boss, Mikel Arteta, will add two new faces in Declan Rice and Jurrien Timber to his squad within the next 48 hours.





Rice will complete his record-breaking 105million move from West Ham. The transfer has already been agreed between both London clubs. But they are still thrashing out the finer details.





Arsenal will also wrap up a deal for Ajax defender, Timber, who will sign a five-year deal at the Emirates. He will cost the Premier League side 40million.





But, just as important for the North London side, they hope to tie down key defender William Saliba to a new four-year deal.





And they are keen to complete and announce a new contract for forward Reiss Nelson, too. Nelson has been a target for Crystal Palace as his contract expired last week.





The Gunners completed the 65m signing of Kai Havertz from Chelsea last week.




The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project, SERAP, has issued a 14-day ultimatum to President Bola Tinubu over the fuel subsidy removal.





SERAP said Tinubu should publish the spending details of fuel subsidy within the next four weeks.





The body vowed to initiate a legal action against Tinubu if he fails to publish the details within four weeks.





Tweeting on Sunday, SERAP wrote: BREAKING: Subsidy removal: Weve urged President Tinubu to widely publish spending details of the N400 billion saved in four weeks from the removal of subsidy on petrol, or face legal action.





Tinubu had declared an end to fuel subsidy regime during his inauguration on May 29.





He had vowed to ensure that money spent on fuel subsidy was directed to infrastructures in the areas of education, health, and others.
President Bola Tinubu on Sunday left Lagos where he has been on Sallah holidays for Abuja.





Before departing the presidential wing of the Murtala Muhammed Airport, Tinubu in the company of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu took the salute Nigeria Army parade.





During his five days stay in Lagos, the president paid a courtesy visit to the paramount rulers of Ijebu, Egba, and Eko.





He also played host to the President of Guinea Bissau and Chairman, Authority of ECOWAS Heads of State and Government, Umaro Sissoco Embalo in his Lagos residence on Saturday.





As Tinubu returns back head to the seat of power, Nigerians are patiently waiting for his list of ministerial nominees amidst speculations of intense lobbying by interested individuals.





A source told newsmen that the list is ready and undergoing final security checks by the Department of State Services and members of the Presidential Strategic Team.





The source also hinted that the president kept the core of the ministers to himself, heavily influenced by the kitchen cabinet of his special advisers.




The 2023 African Action Congress, AAC, presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, has reacted to the report of President Bola Tinubu giving mouth watering retirement package to the sacked Service Chiefs.





Sowore suggested that Tinubu gave the sacked Service Chiefs the retirement packages to avoid them overthrowing his government.





Last week, Tinubu ordered the sack of all Service Chiefs and the Inspector-General of Police, Advisers, and the Comptroller-General of Customs.





He immediately replaced them.





Following their retirement, reports had it that the Chief of Defence Staff and the service chiefs got bulletproof Sport Utility Vehicles, personal aides, guards and other perks of office, including generous allowance for medical treatment abroad, as retirement benefits.





Reacting to the development, Sowore claimed that the package was due to the plot to remove him while he travelled to France.





Tweeting, Sowore wrote: These mouth-watering retirement offers to these suddenly retired Nigerian military top brass sounds like they held Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu @ABATMediaCentre to ransom because they knew something the public didnt know about his Presidency. And selection.





I think the rumour of their (military) plan to take out @officialABAT before his return from France might be true after all. So far, the interests of ordinary Nigerians have been sacrificed to get Tinubus power consolidated.
A professor of 20 years at Rutgers New Jersey Medical School in Newark who New York City Mayor Eric Adams called a plantation owner at a town hall on Wednesday during a heated exchange over rent increases said shes glad their confrontation went viral.

Im happy it happened, because now this is going to bring attention to what kind of a mayor he is and how anti-people he is, said Jeanie Dubnau, an 83-year-old professor of microbiology at Rutgers University and longtime tenants rights activist in her Washington Heights neighborhood in Manhattan.

The interaction occurred at a Talk with Eric community event in Washington Heights, part of a series of at least nine town halls where New Yorkers can discuss all the issues that are most important to them with the mayor and city government leadership, according to a city press release.

Dubnau was the first community member to speak at the event and began reading a prepared statement confronting Adams about back-to-back rent increases in rent-stabilized apartments.

I said, I wanted to tell you, Mayor Adams, youre the enemy of rent stabilized tenants, Dubnau recalled. And then I started talking about how, You support the outrageous rent increases passed by the Rent Guidelines Board, many of whose members were appointed by you.

Adams then interjected to say he doesnt control the Rent Guidelines Board, which establishes rent adjustments for New York Citys rent stabilized units.

I dont control the board. I make appointments, they make the decision. Everyone knows I dont control the board, Adams said.

Thats not true, said Dubnau, a volunteer with the Riverside Edgecombe Neighborhood Association, a tenants and housing rights advocacy group.

Rising to her feet, Dubnau accused Adams of controlling the Rent Guidelines Board and criticized him for two years of rent increases on rent-stabilized apartments.

Why in New York City, where the real estate is controlling you Mr. Mayor, why are we having these horrible rent increases last year and this year? Dubnau asked.

Adams didnt answer the question. He instead fired back at Dubnau and compared her to a slave owner.

If youre going to ask a question dont point at me and dont be disrespectful to me. Im the mayor of this city, and treat me with the respect I deserve to be treated, Adams said.

Im speaking to you like an adult. Dont stand in front like you treated someone thats on the plantation that you own. Give me the respect I deserve, said the mayor.

Dubnau said she wasnt hurt by the mayors words. She was more so surprised by his reaction.

I guess he got angry at me for having the guts and the nerve to criticize it, which anybody can criticize an elected official. Ive done it many times, Dubnau said.

Dubnau said she went home thinking the the whole event was a waste of time. That is, until her children began sending her viral tweets and videos on social media depicting the exchange.

The interaction received coverage in news outlets around the country and even internationally. Dubnaus phone began ringing off the hook. And her email inbox began filling up with people asking about the Riverside Edgecombe Neighborhood Association.

Ive gotten incredible emails, including from community people who I dont even know who now want to join RENA, Dubnau said.

Dubnau also happens to be a survivor of Nazi Germany, having fled Europe with her family during the Holocaust as a young child. This fact has been included in coverage of the exchange with Adams, but Dubnau doesnt find it relevant.

That is true, but I cant blame Mayor Adams. He had no idea and I dont want people to use that to try to say that he was being anti-semitic because I would never never claim that, Dubnau said.

Dubnau said she has not heard from Adams since the incident and does not expect him to apologize. The mayors office said earlier this week it was standing by Adams remarks.

The mayors comments are the mayors comments. We stand by the mayors comments, Press Secretary Fabian Levy told the New York Post.

Although she didnt expect to become this weeks viral sensation, Dubnau said shes ultimately grateful for the attention.

This helps the housing movement because more and more people now are aware of what he has done, Dubnau said.

She also hopes the interaction inspires others to advocate for their own communities and not fear the ire of elected officials.

Speak up, Dubnau said. Theres nothing he can do to you for speaking up.

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Air New Zealand is adding flight seats to its regular flight schedule to accommodate Swifties interested in seeing Taylor Swift perform her Eras tour dates in Australia.

The performer announced last week that she will play seven shows in Australia in February 2024 as part of her worldwide Eras tour.

She will play three shows in Melbourne on Feb. 16-18 and four dates in Sydney from Feb. 23-26, but no shows have been announced in New Zealand as of now.

This means that Kiwi Swifties will have to travel just a little bit longer to see their star perform, and Air New Zealand is providing a solution.

The airline said it would add 2,000 additional seats to its regular flight schedule to accommodate Taylor Swift fans headed to the Australian shows.

The additional flights include roundtrips from Auckland, Christchurch and Wellington to Sydney and Melbourne, according to Conde Nast Traveler.

Tickets for the added seats will go on sale starting at 2 p.m. New Zealand Standard Time on June 30 around when the Eras tour tickets are released.

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Trippie Redd is heading out on tour at the end of August 2023.

The Take Me Away Tour will begin in Somerset, Wis. on Aug. 31 and will wrap up on Oct. 9 in Seattle, Wash.

While on tour, he will perform at Barclays Center in Brooklyn, N.Y. on Sept. 12 and at the Freedom Mortgage Pavilion in Camden, N.J. on Sept. 13.

Supporting Trippie Redd on the Take Me Away Tour will be special guests Lucki, Jean Dawson, D Savage, Ekkstacy and K Suave.

The rapper will also perform at Rolling Loud Miami from July 21-23.

Tickets for the Trippie Redds Take Me Away Tour are on sale on Ticketmaster.

Fans of the rapper can also purchase on secondary market websites, such as StubHub, Vivid Seats, MegaSeats, TicketNetwork and TicketCity.

First-time Vivid Seats users can save $20 on ticket orders over $200 by entering promo code NJ20 at checkout.

A complete list of Trippie Redds tour dates is available here.

More massive rap tours in 2023

Trippie Redd is not the only rapper heading out on tour this year.

Here are a few more upcoming tours you wont want to miss.

RELATED STORIES ABOUT LIVE EVENTS:

Matt Rife world tour 2023: Schedule, dates, where to buy tickets

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Billy Joel ends 10-year MSG residency in 2024: How to secure tickets

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Nicole Iuzzolino can be reached at niuzzolino@njadvancemedia.com. Have a tip? Tell us at nj.com/tips.
It is among the truly iconic movie lines filmed in New Jersey.

Leave the gun. Take the cannoli.
(Bloomberg) -- Barclays Plc is seeking to end its corporate banking relationship with Odey Asset Management after recent sexual assault allegations against the hedge funds founder Crispin Odey, according to the Financial Times.

Most Read from Bloomberg

Barclays told the UKs Financial Conduct Authority that it wants to extricate itself from Odey Asset Management, the Financial Times reported, citing people familiar with the situation it didnt identify.

The hedge fund has been battling to contain an investor exodus after a June 8 article by the newspaper alleged that founder Crispin Odey mistreated women over a 25-year period.

The hedge fund ousted Odey and said the partnership would now be owned and controlled by the remaining partners and managed as an independent legal entity. Crispin Odey denies the allegations.

Read more: Odeys $710 Million Fortune Mostly Trapped Out of His Reach

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2023 Bloomberg L.P.
By Enobong (Anna) Branch

The Supreme Court decided this week that our brief experiment with the redress of deeply entrenched racial inequality was over. To be clear, the holistic use of race as one factor of many in college admissions was hardly the sea change that would make Black America whole, but it was a step.

An acknowledgment that we are a long way still from the founding fathers declaration that equality among men was self-evident. For Black people in America, the ideals of unalienable rights: life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness did not apply. It would take a Civil War and the ratification of the 14th Amendment to extend these rights to the formerly enslaved.

Reconstruction was a short-lived experiment in the federal enforcement of racial equality, followed by Jim Crow laws that enforced racial segregation. The mass mobilization of the Civil Rights Movement was a bloody struggle to force America to confront the incongruity of its ideals and treatment of Black people. There has been significant racial progress and the racial retrenchment we see today is the American way. Yet, nothing bad is happening.

I know it seems ludicrous to suggest, but it is a starting point, Sam Bennett argues, for us to embrace uncertainty. It creates perspective.

Consider this: Several weeks ago, I was a guest on a podcast called Sociology for Dark Times. The host, Sanjiv Gupta, opened by asking whether I shared his sense that these were particularly dark times. My answer, edited here for clarity, was yes and no. I do think it all feels like too much. I had a staff member who said recently, Im tired of living in unprecedented times I want normal. There is a craving for normalcy and predictability.

The feeling of a once-in-a-lifetime pandemic has been compounded with a racial reckoning that this generation had not lived through, on top of the world feeling like its on the verge of collapse as we return to a version of the Cold War. Theres just the feeling that we had a sense of normal, I will note pre-2016 in terms of our expectations of the government, in terms of our expectations of the national discourse, that just doesnt exist anymore.

That reckoning for all of us is unsettling. But is it dark? You cant look at history and call this dark; not by comparison. If I were to ask Black people in the 1960s are these times dark, they would laugh. Because there is just no contest. Is it hard? Yes. Is it uncomfortable? Yes. Is it darker than it was? No.

We tend to focus on the present in our struggle and that is real for us. We are frustrated, there is no question. But the sense of the longue duree, the history of struggle, helps me. There are no dogs coming at me in the street. I have not been hosed down.

But I am uncomfortable. People behind mikes are loud and trolls didnt exist before in the way that we experience them today, but perspective matters in being able to see progress. Once we have perspective, we can be more grounded, reflective and introspective.

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Nothing bad is happening, is a frame Sam Bennett uses to ask the more meaningful question: What is happening? Many assume that progress, while hard fought and slowly attained, was linear and cumulative. To be patient with the pace of change, we repeated Martin Luther King Jrs reminder that the arc of the moral universe is long, but it bends toward justice. Yet, we are watching, in collective disbelief, the large-scale dismantling of efforts that we thought were foundational to building a more perfect union, an inclusive America.

The final question Sam offers is a call to action. Where am I being called to change and grow? I want to argue that it is to shed the naivete that the pervasive economic inequality that is endemic to America can be reconciled with its passive commitment to racial equality.

While the Supreme Courts decision requires race-neutral consideration in college admissions, the factors shaping the composition of college admission pools are anything but race-neutral. We must address those factors. Workplace inequality shapes the communities where Black children live, the quality of the schools they attend, and the additional resources their parents can expend to bolster their academic success.

You cannot care about reducing inequality in the educational outcomes of Black children without addressing the economic well-being of their mothers. The focus on education in the abstract, the chase for the golden ticket that right college admission represents ignores devastating upstream racial impacts. Institutional commitments to the educational benefits of diversity without a societal commitment to reparative justice miss the mark.

If we respond to this moment with renewed vigor to challenge the structural factors that cement inequality, then, just maybe, we can look back at this moment as necessary.

Enobong (Anna) Branch is a professor of sociology, senior vice president of equity at Rutgers University, and the co-author of Work in Black and White: Striving for the American Dream.

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In 1935, Austrian physicist Erwin Schrodinger devised a thought experiment. He proposed that if you sealed a cat in a box with a flask of poison that may eventually kill it that you cant definitively know the cats fate until the box is unsealed. Therefore, in the liminal space before the box is unsealed the cat can be considered both alive and dead. Its true of hypothetical felines and the Democrats property tax relief program.

Assembly Speaker Craig Coughlin would very much like to retain control of the legislature this November when all 120 seats are up for grabs. To that end, hes been plotting a big fat tax cut for senior homeowners.

When first proposed StayNJ was a naked giveaway to suburban seniors. There was no income limit and zero benefits for renters, not to mention an eye-watering price tag the state cant remotely afford. Gov. Murphy was vehemently opposed, pitched a fit, fake threatened a government shutdown, secured some cosmetic concessions and promptly rolled over. StayNJ is soon to be the law of the landmaybe.

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The program doesnt actually kick in until 2026. Care to guess when Murphy leaves office and a new boss takes over?

By the time StayNj is set to take effect there will be a brand new governor who will probably not be too keen on digging a big wet hole in the budget for some nonsense the last guy gave the green light.

Revenues are already dropping and theres a better-than-decent chance they crater by 2026. If and when they do, it would spell doom for StayNJ. Astute readers will notice that 2026 is well past this November, so the fate of the legislature will long have been decided. What a coincidence.

For now, the box is sealed and StayNJ is both alive and dead.

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A pall hung over the gathering of the leadership of 14 religious orders of Charity Sisters in Halifax, Nova Scotia, last month. Among them were the New York Charities who, in April, decided to eventually dissolve their community and will no longer accept new members as they are on a path to completion.

The significance is that Mother Elizabeth Ann Seton, the first American-born saint, planted the seeds for their order when she sent three sisters to New York City in 1817 to start an orphanage. Eight years prior, in Maryland, Seton had founded the Sisters of Charity  the first community for religious women in the U.S. In 1846, the Sisters of Charity of New York spun off into a separate order.

Sister Maureen Shaughnessy, the General Superior of the separate New Jersey Charities who was at that meeting, told me: Well be facing the same decision in the next 10 years. She had served as the head of the order from 2003 to 2011 when there were about 500 sisters in the community.

Yesterday, she started her second four-year term after finishing one that began in 2019. Today there are 164 N.J. Charities with the average age of 83.

Sister Mary Canavan, now 94 and a Charity for 75 years living in Jersey City, was General Superior from 1987 to 1995 when there were about 1,000 Sisters in the order. She said the order at one time in the 1960s almost approached 2,000 members.

Mother Mary Xavier Mehegan started the N.J. branch in 1859. They staffed the powerhouse parish schools in Jersey City, Union City, Kearny and Harrison. At Our Lady of Grace in Hoboken, they had over 2,000 students in the grammar school and also staffed its orphanage with more than two dozen sisters living in the convent. They educated my mother, Grace, and her siblings at St. Bridgets, Jersey City. And they also ran several high schools in Hudson County.

Vatican II changed all that as more sisters moved out of traditional teaching into ministries that promoted social justice, among other areas.

Sisters of Charity vote during a Joint General Assembly in April. (Donna Sartor-Halatin photo courtesy of the Sisters of Charity of Saint Elizabeth)

Shaughnessy, who was my professor of catechetical theology in the seminary, remains hopeful. She does not know what will replace the traditional religious life and claims, we dont own our charism. Meaning that others can take it up and shape it for a new millennium.

One group can be their Seton associates, some 250 mostly women, and some men, who support the sisters in their own way as they live their own lives. They embrace the spirituality of the Charities handed down from St. Vincent de Paul and St. Louise de Marillac, two 17th-century French contemporaries. Shaughnessy summed it up as: Live for others and not yourself.

And that resonated with Rosemary Carroll, the first lay, paid director of the group from 2009 to 2021 when she saw the group grow from 170 to 325 members. She brought to the role a wealth of experience in journalism, public relations and development to advance the mission of charity. She graduated from now-St. Elizabeths University twice after a masters degree in theology and was president of their alumnae.

It was like being part of the family, she said.

Since associates live all over the country where Sisters of Charity have been missioned, she started a newsletter so all could keep in touch with each other.

Seton associate Theresa Nolan, right, is seen with her Sister of Charity sponsor, Sister Margaret Killough. (Photo courtesy of Theresa Nolan)

Carroll noted a bittersweet moment when there were more associates than actual vowed sisters. So, I asked Theresa Nolan, 29, who now works in the development office of her alma mater, St. Vincent Academy in Newark, why she did not enter the convent.

I dont feel being a sister is my vocation, she said but added, Being an associate is like being a sister without being a sister.

She is among the two dozen younger associates. Sister Margaret Killough is her sponsor. (The Killoughs lived across the street from me on Magnolia Avenue in Jersey City, and as a boy I used to see them visiting in their old habits. Sister Maureen was the long-time principal of Sacred Heart in Jersey City and has passed.)

A student at St. Vincent Academy in Newark who participates in the Toward Boundless Charity group applies face paint during the group's Truck or Treat event last fall. (Theresa Nolan photo courtesy of St. Vincent Academy)

Nolan also moderates a group at St. Vincents called Toward Boundless Charity, an extracurricular activity in the school. About a dozen girls do a lot of service outside of school, she said. Four Charities girls high schools offer this program.

The N.J. Charities also count perhaps hundreds of thousands living alums from their institutions who have been formed in that spirit. Carroll sees part of the future of religious life resting very much with the laity as the future of the church. She said the associates offer church and charism where they live and minister. They touch lives and draw people to the church.

Nonagenarian Canavan, a revered Sister of Charity, has always seen the lay associates dedicated to our ministries like we are and doing something new. In leadership and in retirement, she is still a visionary.

The Rev. Alexander Santora is the pastor of Our Lady of Grace and St. Joseph, 400 Willow Ave., Hoboken, NJ 07030. Email: padrealex@yahoo.com; Twitter: @padrehoboken.
The abandoned Rahway Valley Railroad tracks in Union County are one step closer to becoming a multi-use trail system with an infusion of $1.5 million from a federal program dedicated to non-traditional transportation projects.

The Union County Board of Commissioners announced in early June the state Department of Transportation had chosen its Rahway Valley Rails-to-Trails Project to receive funds through the Transportation Alternatives Set-Aside program.

The Rahway Valley Rails-to-Trails Project paves the way for a brighter future, where safe and accessible multi-use trails bring people together, boost local businesses, create jobs and unlock the beauty of Union County, Commissioner Chairman Sergio Granados said in a press release.

The plans include converting a section of the railroad tracks into hiking and biking trails from Kenilworth to neighboring Roselle Park. But advocates are also looking at creating a network of trails around the county using other abandoned rail lines.

The Transportation Alternatives federal program is administered by the state, in partnership with the North Jersey Transportation Planning Authority, the Delaware Valley Regional Planning Commission and the South Jersey Transportation Planning Organization.

The Rahway Valley Rails-to-Trails Project is a great example of how this program can be used to create multi-use trails that provide safe transportation options and connect people to jobs, boosting the local economy, North Jersey Transportation Planning Authority Executive Director David W. Behrend said in a statement.

The Rahway Valley Railroad operated in northern New Jersey from 1897 until it closed in 1992. At its height, the railroad was nearly 12 miles long, including the 7.1 mile long mainline and three branch lines, according to a historical account from the National Parks Service. The railroad traversed Roselle Park, Kenilworth, Union, Springfield, Summit and Maplewood.

The Rahway Valley Railroad Station on North 31st Street in Kenilworth served as a hub at the turn of the century. The station even served as a backdrop for numerous movies, according to the Kenilworth borough website.

However, traffic on the Rahway Valley Railroad was way down by the 1980s. The Delaware Otsego Corporation eventually abandoned the line in 1992. In 1995, the state Department of Transportation purchased the Rahway Valley Railroad with a plan for rehabilitating the line. However, decades went by without any change.

Today, most of the old Rahway Valley Railroad is overgrown. Some of its tracks are still visible beneath tall grass and weeds.

But the rail line was not completely forgotten. Residents and elected officials have been working to raise funds for a project that would transform the old rail line into a trail system that connects existing greenways and parks with the Watchung Reservation.

Theres all these other trails in other counties, why should I have to put bikes on the back of my car and go to another town to have safe trails? asked Michael Dury, president of Union County Connects, a nonprofit group advocating for a Union County trail system.

Trails come in many forms but the ones interesting to us were the ones hidden in plain sight, which were the old rail system, said Dury. A lot of them are not used anymore and that coincides with a big need that we have.

Union County is the third most-densely-populated county in the state with approximately 575,345 residents, according to the latest census data.

This is desperately needed in Union County, Dury said.

The Rahway Valley Rails-to-Trails Project aims to create safe multi-use trails from the abandoned Rahway Valley Railroad section that traverses the Kenilworth and neighboring Roselle Park. The new trails, designed for pedestrians and bicyclists, will connect communities, businesses, shopping and recreational opportunities.

This is a great way to keep active and promote healthy lifestyles, said Jay Robaina, a Roselle Park councilman and co-founder of Union County Rails-to-Trails, a group created to discuss transforming the inactive rail lines of Union County into a public trail system.

A project like this will provide transportation, create open space, access to parks, schools, businesses, transit hubs, Robaina said. And hopefully this is just the start.

Union County Connects and Union County Rails-to-Trails have their sights set on converting other abandoned rail lines in the county, including 3.5 miles of the inactive Central Railroad of New Jersey line. The rail corridor, extending from Elizabeth to Cranford, is currently owned by Conrail.

The abandoned North Shore branch of the Staten Island Rapid Transit Railroad, which also extends from Elizabeth to Cranford, is another line eyed for future trail use. The branch of the Staten Island Rapid Transit Railroad has been abandoned since the 1980s.

How fantastic would it be to turn that into something that could connect our families? asked Robaina.

The Rahway Valley Rails-to-Trails Project received $1.5 million in federal funds to go toward converting the old railroad into a multi-use trail for pedestrians and cyclists.

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Verilux is a fabricated word. And just like any of the countless new words that enter our ever-evolving usage, verilux takes its meaning from the surrounding context.

For New Orleans musician Nora Jane Messerich, verilux means truth glowing with light. Its a word with a certain energy surrounding it, and its a concise frame for Verilux, Messerichs first album under the moniker Zora Lucent.

Released in June, Verilux is a fascinating album of ethereal, expansive works blending vocal experimentation, glitchy electronics, percussive beats and string arrangements. Messerich wrote, recorded and produced Zora Lucents Verilux, and engineer Ben Lorio helped mix and master the record.

While listeners will be able to ground themselves in familiar, contemporary classical elements, Messerichs experimentation creates a feeling of space where reflection can happen. Theres a push and pull of the human and the technological. My hope is that the music will guide listeners into introspective and imaginal worlds, Messerich says.

Verilux opens with the title track and the words My sweet memory, but the song pivots to a string of familiar and fabricated words: vinea nebula, striata nova, and lucent aphylla. The precise meaning isnt important. Set against sparse electronics and strings and modulating vocal tones, Messerich is shaping a feeling.

Other songs on the album, like Severance // Feedback Loop, fit more conventional, poetic lyrical structure, while others contain fabricated words or a combination. Still other tracks rely on lyrics-less vocalization.

I enjoy working with and manipulating my voice, so that remains centric to my music, she says. It was, after all, my first instrument and it holds this inherent rawness and vulnerability and capability of expressing nuance. But the process of manipulating the voice takes it into these otherworldly territories for me.

Messerich grew up in St. Paul, Minnesota, singing pop music as well as religious and Renaissance choral pieces, she says, and after graduating high school left for Glasgow, Scotland, to study music. Her degree had her writing atonal orchestral music and learning classical, jazz and experimental music.

I wrote my dissertation on Bjork and Sarah Vaughan, she says. Which was really just an excuse to go down obsessive rabbit holes on the internet about them.

Bjork, Messerich adds, has been a notable influence, and she notes the Icelandic artists Vespertine and Vulnicura albums as particular inspirations when creating Verilux. Messerich also gives nods to experimental electronica artists like Dolphin Midwives and Aisha Devi.

After finishing her degree in 2016, Messerich found her way to New Orleans. And in recent years, she joined guitarist and pianist Tristan Gianola to form the electro-chamber duo Pink Lion, performing vocals and electronics along with the glass harp.

But the music Messerich was becoming increasingly more passionate about, she says, required working in a digital audio workstation, and in recent years she shifted to composing in the program Ableton and learning more about music production.

I have always wanted to have more self-sufficiency and freedom in my creation process as well, and electronics offer this, she says.

The process of making Verilux took about eight months, she says, but it came about after a four-year period where she was intensely focused on occultism, magical studies and healing practices  energy work, trancework, herbalism, divination. She also had dug into The Artists Way, Julia Camerons book about creativity and self-growth.

The combination resulted in a lot of healing and unlocking of parts of myself, and clearing the channel if you may, which made this music possible, Messerich says.

Ive been inclined towards making music that leans soothing [and] ethereal rather than super high-energy or hardcore, she adds. This album wanted to be gentle, because, I presume, thats what I needed energetically at the time.

Verilux can be found at zoralucent.bandcamp.com.
By Mike Scarcella

(Reuters) - A U.S. judge on Friday ordered a new trial on damages against BNSF Railway in a privacy class action, in a ruling that wiped out an award of $228 million to truck drivers who accused the freight railway giant of unlawfully collecting their fingerprints.

The ruling from U.S. District Judge Matthew Kennelly in Illinois upheld a jury's liability verdict that BNSF had violated the Illinois Biometric Information Privacy Act, which imposes restrictions on the collection and use of personal information such as retinal scans and fingerprints.

But Kennelly said damages under the biometric law were discretionary, and so "BNSF is entitled to have a jury determine the appropriate amount of damages."

The trial was the first to be held under the Illinois biometric privacy law, which is among the most stringent nationwide in protecting sensitive personal information.

Warren Buffett's Berkshire Hathaway owns BNSF, which operates one of the country's largest freight rail networks.

A spokesperson for BNSF and a lawyer for the company did not immediately respond to requests on Friday seeking comment.

Attorneys for the plaintiff did not immediately respond to similar messages.

A truck driver sued BNSF in 2019, alleging the Fort Worth, Texas-based company unlawfully required drivers to scan fingerprints at facilities in the state.

The jury in Chicago last year concluded BNSF "recklessly or intentionally" violated the Illinois biometric privacy law 45,600 times. The law allows $5,000 per violation.

Lawyers for BNSF said in a post-trial brief that the Illinois biometric law contains the word "may" and that "there is the option not to award damages, or to award damages in any amount less than the statutory maximum."

The state law poses myriad compliance hurdles for companies, and many have faced litigation. In 2020, Facebook said it would pay $650 million to resolve class action allegations that it violated the Illinois law in a feature that could recognize people in photographs shared to the site.

The case is Rogers v. BNSF Railway Company, U.S. District Court, Northern District of Illinois, No. 1:19-cv-03083.

For plaintiffs: Jon Loevy of Loevy & Loevy, Myles McGuire and David Gerbie of McGuire Law, and others

For BNSF: Elizabeth Herrington of Morgan, Lewis & Bockius

Read more:

White Castle could face multibillion-dollar judgment in Illinois privacy lawsuit

BNSF must pay truck drivers $228 mln for privacy violation

(Reporting by Mike Scarcella; Editing by Leigh Jones and Matthew Lewis)
With at least five wind farms now proposed for the waters off Louisiana, the state is quickly becoming a national leader for near-shore wind energy development.

Louisiana is very much a first mover on this, said Jenny Netherton, a program manager for the Southeastern Wind Coalition. This is all kind of new, but Louisiana is one of the only states making it an option for developing in state waters.

This month, global renewable energy firm Vestas began negotiations with the state for potential offshore wind farms near the coasts of Cameron and St. Mary parishes, according to records from the state Department of Natural Resources.
A Kenner man accused of illegally obtaining sexually explicit images of three female victims, including a minor, and extorting them is now facing several dozen additional charges after authorities identified a new victim, a 13-year-old girl.

Jefferson Parish Sheriff's Office officials fear there may be many more.

Dekunta Mason Jr., 21, was first arrested June 19 and booked with simple rape, three counts of video voyeurism, three counts of extortion, computer-aided solicitation of a minor and indecent behavior with a juvenile, said Sgt. Brandon Veal, spokesperson for the Sheriff's Office.

The charges stem from complaints from two women, ages 18 and 19, as well as a juvenile girl whose age was not available, according to court records.

The Sheriff's Office rearrested Mason June 21 after a detective spoke with the 13-year-old victim. He was booked with 16 counts of video voyeurism, 15 counts of possession of juvenile pornography, six counts of extortion, indecent behavior with a juvenile and computer-aided solicitation of a minor, Veal said.
Promotions

Melissa Brunner

WIBW-TV general manager Roger Brokke has promoted veteran anchor/reporter Melissa Brunner to the news director position. Brunner succeeds Jon Janes, who retired after 24 years leading the 13 NEWS team and 51 years in journalism. She will continue to host Eye on Northeast Kansas and co-anchor 13 NEWS at 6 p.m. alongside David Oliver. I look forward to continuing the strong tradition of local news for which WIBW-TV has always been known, Brunner said. We have a fantastic team who are dedicated to providing quality journalism every day. Its a joy to work alongside them. Brunner has been with WIBW-TV for 27 years. Her work has won numerous awards from the Kansas Association of Broadcasters and Kansas City Press Club; shes been part of the team thats won six Heartland Regional Emmys for Best Newscast; her anchor and reporting work has earned two Emmy nominations; and she won a Regional Edward R. Murrow Award for writing. Brunner is a native of Manitowoc, Wisconsin. She and her husband, WIBW-TV chief photojournalist Doug Brown, live in Topeka.

Laura Stephenson

Danny Wade

Beth ONeill

Kelly Erby

Washburn University has announced several promotions as follows:

Added the designation of provost to the vice president for academic affairs position held by Laura Stephenson . She continues with the same roles and responsibilities, serving as the chief academic officer responsible for overseeing all matters relating to the academic enterprise at Washburn University and Washburn Tech. Stephenson is filling the role on an interim basis while a national search is conducted for a permanent provost and vice president for academic affairs.

Named Danny Wade assistant provost for faculty development. This new position increases focus on new faculty recruitment, onboarding, mentoring, the tenure and promotion process as well as the Center for Teaching Excellence and Learning. Wade also will serve as the point person in the Provosts Office for student academic concerns. Wade joined the Washburn faculty in 2008 as an assistant professor and program coordinator for English Education. He received tenure at Washburn in 2012 and was promoted to full professor in 2021. He has served as Chair of the Department of English for five years.

Named Beth ONeill assistant provost for curricula and program innovation. This new position increases focus on new program analysis and development, program review and assessment, reporting and support of faculty governance structures in the review of curricula. ONeill joined Washburn in 2018 as an assistant professor in social work and received tenure in 2023. She has served as a program director in the department of social work and is currently Washburns director of assessment.

Named Kelly Erby interim dean for the College of Arts and Sciences. Erby earned a bachelors degree in history and English from the Ohio State University and her masters and doctorate in history from Emory University. She joined Washburn in 2011 as an assistant professor in history, received tenure in 2017 and was promoted to full professor in 2021. Since 2019, Erby has served as an assistant or associate dean of Washburns College of Arts and Sciences. A national search for a permanent dean will be conducted in the upcoming academic year.

Topeka-area hirings, promotions, retirements and other announcements can be emailed to iyb@cjonline.com.

This article originally appeared on Topeka Capital-Journal: It's Your Business has WIBW-TV and Washburn University
As some production of vital components improves more new car stocks are arriving in dealer showrooms.

Replacement cars for Motability customers are getting back on track, which is good news for those who have been waiting for deliveries.

Fleet and business cars are also being replaced and while the offers are far short of pre-Covid there is definitely flexibility from the manufacturers as production increases.

This, in turn, will bring in more part-exchanges to provide the used car market with new and increased numbers to meet demand and stabilise prices.

Additionally, we are beginning to see new entrants in the electric market with better range batteries and some additional charging facilities.

There are new entrants in the small- and medium-size cars as European manufacturers step up their pace to meet the new Chinese models already here or planned during the next two years.

Some Chinese brands are already following the success of MG and several dealers have been appointed to represent Ora, BYD, and Chery, with more brands to follow in due course. The Europeans see this as a major threat and are challenging the UK government to cut tariffs in conjunction with Europe to ensure no additional penalties for production and component movement.

There is ongoing pressure to move to electric and more cities are making it clear they want vehicles out of the city centres.

Where people live in high-rise flats and apartments this makes sense as charging would be difficult but some new house builds are not providing off- road parking and are also not allowing street parking.

There are more 20mph areas arriving and councils are actively looking to provide more cycle lanes to encourage motorists to park the car and jump on a bike in built-up areas.

Certainly, in some countries in Europe this has worked well with cycle lanes in some countries as large as car lanes and cyclists being given rights of way, for example, on roundabouts. There are proposals to register electric bikes, which can do up to 30mph, to ensure safety for the riders and other road users as well as pedestrians.

This is a greater challenge in the UK where there are more cars in confined spaces and lack of a comprehensive local rail or bus services at reasonable rates.

These changes will take many years to make and there is increased scepticism that electric cars will turn out to be the environmental panacea its claimed to be.

Many drivers have adopted a 'wait and see' approach and see no reason to rush into buying an electric car, at least until charging facilities and range have dramatically improved.

The electric van for local deliveries is however, presenting a different story. With a range of up to 200 miles - more realistically reaching 150 miles - there are real benefits for those determined to make them work.

I spoke to two owners at the Royal Cornwall Show who deliver to local businesses on a daily basis, covering around 100 miles.

In one case, the owner has solar panels at his business and told me his fuel costs were now nil. This stop-start activity is also much cleaner in electric mode and meets councils requirements for the future.

As we approach 2030, look out for more interesting developments.

Written by Peter Vosper, Chairman of the Vosper Group
More than 200 people with disabilities have been helped into education, employment, training, or given one-to-one support through a project led by Learn Devon.

Over the past year, Devon County Councils adult education provider, Learn Devon, has worked in partnership with the Councils Reaching for Independence teams and Employer Hub, to run the innovative Ability not Disability (AnD) programme.

This initiative has been providing support and advice to help people with disabilities into employment. It was one of 13 projects in the county to receive a share of UK Community Renewal Funding.

The scheme has been helping disabled people to develop their skills and gain experience in a variety of businesses.

As part of the programme, Learn Devon partnered with the Reaching for Independence team to offer a Job Guarantee scheme, helping match a number of disabled people with potential employers to provide them with three months paid work and training.

Crucial to the success of this scheme was the direct support provided to individuals to apply for and gain employment while working with employers to understand their needs.

Businesses were supported, via the County Council's Employer Hub, as they took on their new employees and made their workplaces more accessible. They were also assisted in applying for the Disability Confident Award to demonstrate their commitment to inclusion and diversity in the workplace.

Over the course of the project, more than 25 people from across Devon have benefitted from a supported work placement, with many of them being offered full-time positions afterwards.

Among them was Luke Souster, who has been supported to find work as an administrative officer at The Northam Care Trust in Bideford, and Elaine Bamford who worked at Dolphin Preschool and Nursery in Exmouth and has now gone on to continue her maths and English studies at college.

Luke said: As its the first time Ive been able to receive a paycheck its given me more independence outside of work. Its a good way to get your foot in the door and its giving me a purpose in life.

Fiona White, HR Manager at The Northam Care Trust, said: "We are extremely proud of Luke, who has become a great addition to our team. His presence is always uplifting, and he is a perfect showcase for our organisation and for the Ability Not Disability project."

Elaine Bamford worked as an Early Years Assistant at Dolphin Preschool and Nursery in Exmouth. She said: I always wanted to work with children. Reaching for Independence and Learn Devon supported me and theyve helped me a lot. Dont give up on what you want to do. Keep going even if it might seem hard or draining sometimes, but just keep ploughing along because youll get there in the end.

Peter Curnow-Yates, Ops Manager at Dolphin Nursery, said: "Our experience of working with the Ability not Disability Project was a positive experience in which Dolphin, its team members and particularly Elaine have greatly benefitted. Elaines experience of Makaton fitted well with our most recent initiative to further aid and support communication and language which is essential to all areas of learning and development for children. Elaine is now empowered to further her career in Early Years.

Councillor Rufus Gilbert, Cabinet Member for Economic Recovery and Skills, said: The project has been a genuine lifeline for disabled people seeking to become more self-sufficient and financially independent. It has given people with additional needs the opportunity to gain more control over their lives, and the feedback that Learn Devon has received has been extremely positive. Some fantastic matches were made with local businesses who were really open to finding talented people that may otherwise be overlooked. Those who have taken part in the project say its given them a greater sense of purpose and belonging that can be difficult to attain without the support of a job.

While the Ability not Disability project has come to an end, both Learn Devon and Devon County Council are continuing to offer support to disabled people who are seeking work or looking to develop their skills.

To find out more please visit: www.learndevon.co.uk, email learndevon@devon.gov.uk or call 0345 155 1014.
One of the best investments we can make is in our own knowledge and skill set. With that in mind, this article will work through how we can use Return On Equity (ROE) to better understand a business. To keep the lesson grounded in practicality, we'll use ROE to better understand Tenaga Nasional Berhad (KLSE:TENAGA).

Return on Equity or ROE is a test of how effectively a company is growing its value and managing investors money. In short, ROE shows the profit each dollar generates with respect to its shareholder investments.

View our latest analysis for Tenaga Nasional Berhad

How Is ROE Calculated?

The formula for return on equity is:

Return on Equity = Net Profit (from continuing operations)  Shareholders' Equity

So, based on the above formula, the ROE for Tenaga Nasional Berhad is:

6.0% = RM3.6b  RM60b (Based on the trailing twelve months to March 2023).

The 'return' is the profit over the last twelve months. Another way to think of that is that for every MYR1 worth of equity, the company was able to earn MYR0.06 in profit.

Does Tenaga Nasional Berhad Have A Good Return On Equity?

One simple way to determine if a company has a good return on equity is to compare it to the average for its industry. However, this method is only useful as a rough check, because companies do differ quite a bit within the same industry classification. As shown in the graphic below, Tenaga Nasional Berhad has a lower ROE than the average (8.8%) in the Electric Utilities industry classification.

roe

That's not what we like to see. That being said, a low ROE is not always a bad thing, especially if the company has low leverage as this still leaves room for improvement if the company were to take on more debt. A company with high debt levels and low ROE is a combination we like to avoid given the risk involved. You can see the 2 risks we have identified for Tenaga Nasional Berhad by visiting our risks dashboard for free on our platform here.

The Importance Of Debt To Return On Equity

Virtually all companies need money to invest in the business, to grow profits. That cash can come from retained earnings, issuing new shares (equity), or debt. In the first and second cases, the ROE will reflect this use of cash for investment in the business. In the latter case, the debt required for growth will boost returns, but will not impact the shareholders' equity. Thus the use of debt can improve ROE, albeit along with extra risk in the case of stormy weather, metaphorically speaking.

Tenaga Nasional Berhad's Debt And Its 6.0% ROE

Tenaga Nasional Berhad does use a high amount of debt to increase returns. It has a debt to equity ratio of 1.07. With a fairly low ROE, and significant use of debt, it's hard to get excited about this business at the moment. Debt does bring extra risk, so it's only really worthwhile when a company generates some decent returns from it.

Summary

Return on equity is a useful indicator of the ability of a business to generate profits and return them to shareholders. In our books, the highest quality companies have high return on equity, despite low debt. All else being equal, a higher ROE is better.

But ROE is just one piece of a bigger puzzle, since high quality businesses often trade on high multiples of earnings. The rate at which profits are likely to grow, relative to the expectations of profit growth reflected in the current price, must be considered, too. So you might want to take a peek at this data-rich interactive graph of forecasts for the company.

Of course, you might find a fantastic investment by looking elsewhere. So take a peek at this free list of interesting companies.

Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com.



This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned.

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PORTER  A 44-year-old woman suffered life-threatening injuries when she was shot Friday by a 17-year-old carjacker, who then led officers on a high-speed chase before crashing and being thrown through the windshield, according to police.

The woman was transported to a Chicago hospital for treatment, while the teen was treated locally for minor injuries and then taken to the Lake County Juvenile Detention Center, Lake County Sheriff Oscar Martinez Jr. said.

The teen had just been released from custody in Illinois on a charge of armed carjacking, Porter police Lt. Dan Dickey said.

Lake County police responded just before 7:30 p.m. to the 2900 block of Dekalb Street in New Chicago for a report of the carjacking and shooting, Martinez said.

A preliminary investigation revealed the womans Nissan Sentra had been stolen by a male suspect believed to be 17 years old, he said.

Dickey said that not long after his department learned of the carjacking and shooting, the stolen vehicle was picked up by a license plate recognition camera as heading east on U.S. 20 near Ind. 49.

A Porter police officer working in the area of U.S. 20 and County Road 500 East spotted the eastbound vehicle, clocked it at 75 mph and then watched it accelerate to more than 120 mph when a traffic stop was attempted.

As the suspect attempted to negotiate a curve just east of Railroad Avenue, he lost control of the vehicle and crashed into a wooded area, Dickey said. The suspect was partially ejected through the windshield and asked officers for help.

Portage man given 3 years for injuring county security guard can potentially reduce that term Porter Superior Court Judge Jeffrey Clymer also approved a request from the victim for restitution of $716 to cover lost wages and approved a plan for transferring Tidwell's $500 cash bond toward that fee.

The teen was taken to the hospital for an evaluation before being turned over to New Chicago police.

The Lake County Sheriffs Department Crime Scene Investigation Team reportedly assisted in the incident and took possession of the stolen vehicle.

Porter police are seeking felony charges of resisting law enforcement and theft of a motor vehicle, and misdemeanor reckless driving and never receiving a license, Dickey said.

Porter police were unaware of what charges the teen faces in Lake County.
LAPORTE  The LaPorte County Council has unanimously voted to switch from precinct-based voting to vote centers.

Final approval is now required by the LaPorte County Commissioners, which is expected to consider the proposal in August.

Until then, LaPorte County Clerk Heather Stevens plans to host a series of public meetings to explain how vote centers work, along with their advantages over the precinct voting system, and answer questions.

Stevens said switching from precinct voting would be more convenient by allowing residents to vote at any polling location in the county.

She said one of the ideas behind vote centers is increasing voter turnout.

For example, people returning home from their jobs on Election Day are often pressed for time to reach a polling location in the precinct in which they live before it closes.

But at a voting center, registered voters would be able to stop at the first polling place in LaPorte County they pass, which could be up to 30 miles or even more from where they live.

This is especially important for working people, she said.

Stevens said money would also be saved by having fewer polling locations to staff.

Initially, her plan calls for the number of voting sites to go from 52 to 38.

Under a population-based formula, the state would require a minimum of eight voting sites in LaPorte County.

Stevens said she believed such a low number of polling places would make voting more of a challenge for people who have to drive a distance in the county, the largest by square miles in the state.

More polling places could be eliminated if some locations in upcoming elections wind up with a handful of people casting ballots outside their neighborhoods, she said.

Council President Mike Rosenbaum said voting would also become easier for people who relocate then go to the polls to learn that their change of address was not reflected on their voter registration.

When that happens, Rosenbaum said, voters must go to where they cast their ballots previously.

Some of them have had to wait in line then find that out. It just makes a difference when you dont have to go to a different location and youre able to vote anywhere in the county, he said.

On June 16, the LaPorte County Election Board also voted unanimously for vote centers.

Support for vote centers has also been expressed by LaPorte County Republican Party Chairman Allen Stevens and LaPorte County Democratic Party Chairwoman Angela Hensman.

A majority of the counties in Indiana use a vote-center approach in their elections.
After years of intense study and poring over dense textbooks, the newly minted doctors pulled the sleeves of the physicians coats onto their arms in an exuberant moment of triumph at Northwest Health-Porter Hospital in Valparaiso.

Last week, the health care system with hospitals in Valparaiso, LaPorte and Knox welcomed its inaugural class of family-medicine residents in a traditional white-coat ceremony, ushering them into the medical profession.

Northwest Healths family-medicine residency program is currently the only one in Northwest Indiana, though Methodist Hospital in Gary earlier had a similar program for years before it was discontinued. It gives med-school graduates hands-on experience in their area of specialization while treating patients in a real-world clinical setting.

The hope is to attract, train and retain new doctors in Northwest Indiana.

Our family-medicine residency program is a significant milestone for Northwest Health and Northwest Indiana, said Ashley Dickinson, CEO of Northwest Health. I appreciate the dedication of Dr. Joel Bates, program director, and the team that has worked to create this robust program.

The addition of graduate medical education gives us the ability to train future physicians who share our commitment to clinical excellence and outstanding patient experience.

The six new Northwest Health residents hail from medical schools outside the area; four of them come from abroad. The new physicians will train under Northwest Medical Group, HealthLinc and other Northwest Health physicians over the next three years. They will gain experience providing a full continuum of care to patients for a range of conditions.

Caribbean Medical University School of Medicine graduate Sarah Elassal, Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University College of Medicine graduate Chukwuka Ikediashi, Chicago College of Osteopathic Medicine of Midwestern University graduate Andrea Origenes, Des Moines University College of Osteopathic Medicine graduate Jessica Swearingen, Guadalajara Medical School graduate Laura Vives and Shandong University School of Medicine graduate Yangyang Wang will get inpatient and outpatient training at the hospital and HealthLincValparaiso.

This is an exciting day for Northwest Health, in partnership with HealthLinc, as we kick off our very first residency program that paves the way for future programs, Northwest Health Chief Medical Officer James Leonard said. We are committed to providing our family-medicine residents with an outstanding academic education and clinical experiences that will prepare them to always do their best for our patients.

Northwest Health got accreditation for the program from the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education, an independent organization that sets and monitors educational standards to help ensure safe and high-quality medical care.

Im incredibly grateful for the opportunity to direct this program, and Im looking forward to working with these exceptional resident doctors as they begin their careers in family medicine, Bates said. In family medicine we often have the extraordinary opportunity to care for some patients over their entire lifetime, having a profound impact on their overall health and the well-being of their families and the health of an entire community.
The man made eye contact with me from the center median of a busy road in Gary.

How close am I to the lake? he asked.

I had just pulled up to the intersection of U.S. 20 and Lake Street in Miller when I spotted him asking motorists for money. He held a sign: Please help. Need food. God bless. Thank you.

Youre pretty close to the lake, I told him from my car. Its straight north from here.

Oh, OK, Im not from around here, he replied.

He was making small talk to sweet talk some cash from my wallet. I didnt mind. He has his job to do and I have mine. In fact, I was there that day to show a new colleague around Miller. She had never been there. Maybe this guy hadnt either, I didnt know.

Whats your name, sir? I asked as the light turned green.

He told me his name. I told him mine with a fist bump.

Ill get back to you when I swing back through this intersection, I told him.

A few minutes later, I returned. My colleague and I first went into Armans restaurant, near where the man was panhandling. On our way out, we circled back to him by walking to that intersection.

Hey, you actually came back! he told me, with a surprised look on his face.

Yep, I said.

I handed him a $10 bill. He didnt expect it.

Thanks for remembering me, he said, shaking my hand and giving me a hug.

I figured this would be the end of our exchange. But he had more small talk. And a confession.

Hey, I actually know how close I am to the lake, he said sheepishly. I live just down the road in a motel.

I knew where he lived. I noticed him a few months ago when I visited there for an interview.

Yeah, I know you do, I told him.

Ive learned that if you let people talk, they will often reveal themselves to you.

After this guy tucked away the $10 I gave him, I guess he felt bad about lying to me earlier.

I wasnt sure how to respond. In my younger years, I would have been antagonistic during our brief exchange. Or I may have debated him or focused on his lie. These days, Im trying to show more tact.

Thanks for being honest with me, I told him as cars whizzed past us.

Ive struggled to show such grace to others. It doesnt come naturally for me.

Too often Id rather be right than do the right thing. Im still learning the difference. Just last week, a church pastor explained to me the differences between grace, mercy and justice.

If we live by an eye-for-an-eye, justice-driven philosophy, we will not get a better world, said Greg Lee, lead pastor of Suncrest Christian Church in St. John.

I understand this, I told him. But I also understand the concept of justice more than I do the virtue of grace.

Lee told me: When human beings put themselves in charge of justice, its no good for the world.

For a species that instinctively demands justice, grace can be a hard sell, I told him. It has to be demonstrated case by case, person to person, attempt after attempt.

A while back, a man named McKenzie approached me outside a public bathroom at a highway rest area in Arkansas. He was polite and respectful of my personal space, something I immediately noticed.

Excuse me, he said. Im at the mercy of God and good people like you.

I reached out to shake his hand. I asked his name, where hes from, where hes going.

Im just trying to get back home to Texarkana, but I need gas money to get there, he replied.

I told him I had no money on me  I dont like carrying a wallet  but if he pointed out his vehicle, Id leave something on his windshield after I used the restroom.

I promise to pay it forward someday, he said.

This wasnt the first time he has used this patter to strangers. It wouldnt be his last.

A few minutes later, when I walked toward his vehicle with a few bucks in hand, he met me on the way. Ill never know if he had a vehicle there or if it was out of gas. I handed him $20.

Thanks again for showing mercy, he told me before hustling away.

The writer in me wanted to stick around and watch him interact with other motorists. Im a panhandler for the currency of personal interactions. I cant resist capturing them and sharing them.

Like I told that guy in Miller, he has his job to do and I have mine.

But the wanderer in me had to leave that rest area and continue on my way.

I tried showing grace to the guy in Miller. I tried showing mercy to the guy in Arkansas. Justice seems easier to understand and to execute.

Im still searching for grace, I told Lee, who was a guest on my She Said, He Said podcast. (This episode will be released soon.)

The existence of grace was a recurring topic during the recording of that episode. It feels elusive to me, like catching a gust of wind in your hands.

After that show, my wife and I went out to dinner, where I pondered one of our most meaningful episodes and its broader themes: grace, mercy, justice and redemption. We ended up at the Paragon Family Restaurant in Hobart.

We could have gone pretty much anywhere in the Region that night. For some reason we wound up there. A host led us to a table away from other diners. We could have gone to another section of the restaurant. We wound up there.

Our server greeted us at the table. We could have had another server. We wound up with her.

She smiled and cheerfully introduced herself: Hi, my name is Grace.

My wife and I just looked at each other and laughed.
Q. Why do I sleep like a log in the winter and have insomnia in the summer?

While there isnt much research on this particular phenomenon, there is some evidence that seasonal changes can impact sleep patterns, and there are several issues that could cause you to lose sleep in the summer.

Daylight saving time. The most probable culprit is the extra sunlight exposure we tend to get in the evenings during the summer versus the winter  especially for those who live in northern latitudes. This is because light suppresses the bodys production of melatonin, a hormone that plays a role in signaling to the body that its time to sleep. So if youre still soaking up the sun late into the evening  or even under artificial lighting  rather than relaxing in a dimly-lit environment, melatonin wont be released, and youll likely have a harder time falling asleep at your regular bedtime.

Warmer weather. Higher temperatures during the summer can also wreak havoc on sleep. Under ideal conditions, your body temperature starts to fall by a couple of degrees about one to two hours before bedtime in preparation for sleep  and it continues to decline while sleeping, said Leslie Swanson, a clinical psychologist and associate professor of psychiatry in the Sleep and Circadian Research Laboratory at the University of Michigan. This internal cooling effect helps us achieve the deep, restorative stage of sleep known as slow-wave sleep. But when the ambient temperature is high outside, it prevents our body temperature from falling as quickly to where we want it to be in order to facilitate sleep, Dr. Swanson said. This not only makes it harder to fall asleep, but it can also cause frequent awakenings during the night.

A more vibrant social life. Beyond light and temperature, its also useful to look at your lifestyle during the summer, which may be quite different from your habits throughout the rest of the year. Summer is a time when many of us ease into vacation mode, which can translate into more socializing, drinking and eating late at night. All of these activities too close to bedtime will delay your bodys internal (or circadian) clock and make it harder for you to get the shut-eye you need.
The possibility of a U.S. central bank digital currency (CBDC) has become a hot-button political issue in the U.S., but it appears that concern over such a monetary instrument is also shared by Americas neighbors to the north in Canada as well as among its forbearers across the pond in the UK.

Two surveys published last weekone by hardware wallet manufacturer Trezor and the other by financial news site WealthRocketexamined public attitudes toward CBDCs in the UK and Canada, respectively. Each one posed distinct questions, yet reached similar conclusions.

People in Canada and the UK have clear reservations about the tech that central banks and governments across the globe are exploring as an alternative to cash. A majority of Brits said they were concerned about UK authorities having control over peoples funds, while 39% of Canadians said a loss of control over their finances was a concern.

There is a distrust of government in so many countries around the world, Steven Lubka, head of private clients and family offices at Swan Bitcoin, told Decrypt in an interview. They don't want to just hand over unilateral control over their money to their states.

US 'Has Not Yet Determined Whether It Will Pursue a CBDC,' Says Treasury Official

CBDCs are digital tokens, similar to stablecoins. But CBDCs are maintained by their respective governments or central banks as opposed to being issued by private companies on public networks like Cricles USDC or Tethers USDT stablecoins.

Both surveys come as CBDC public comment periods come to a close in Canada and the UK. Responses to a Consultation Paper on CBDCs crafted by the Bank of England were due by Friday's end. Canadas consultation came to a close on June 19.

The studies follow research done by the Cato Institute, a libertarian think tank, that found only 16% of Americans support the adoption of a CBDC, with greater pushback among Republicans than Democrats.

Canadas Concerns

In America, presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. has pointed to Canada as a reason to support Bitcoin. He said he was inspired to support Bitcoin after the Canadian government tried to quell protests against COVID-19 restrictions in the region by freezing protestors bank accounts.

Still, 59% of the 1,500 Canadians surveyed by WealthRocket said they were willing to use CBDC for payments. 25% said they were not willing at all.

Canadas central bank, the Bank of Canada, has no plans to issue a CBDC anytime soon but is exploring the technology in case Canadian Parliament asks for one in the future, according to its website.

Canadian Conservative Pierre Poilievre last April said CBDC is a no-go if hes ever elected prime minister, per Reuters. Its a position similar to Republican presidential nominee and Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, who vowed to stop a CBDC from being issued in the United States if he is elected president.

Its not surprising that conservative-leaning politicians are more likely to express criticism of CBDC, said Lubka, describing it as a paranoia wet dream for people suspect of the governments intentions.

Canadian Lawmakers Want to Help Blockchain Businesses 'Flourish'

Even though hes sympathetic to some concerns, Lubka thinks the likelihood of CBDCs in America and countries with other developed economies is somewhat overblown, pointing to financial middlemen like banks and fintech companies that would be hurt.

It is just the quintessential embodiment of everything that has galvanized and mobilized conservative concerns for the last few decades, he said. The only thing they're wrong about is their probability of happening.

Among the most common concerns of Canadians surveyed about a CBDC were the potential for fraud, the risk of cyber attacks, and the potential for cash to be phased out. But, rest assured, the Bank of Canada says that paper bills are going nowhere.

Notably, the least common concern among Canadians was a digital dollar rivaling cryptocurrencies and challenging the rise of digital assets. So, it appears Canadians either have some confidence in their digital wallets contents or couldnt care less about what happens to crypto.

In terms of the potential benefits, safety and convenience were chief among Canadians. The BoC has signaled that a CBDC could help protect the Canadian economys stability from widespread use of cryptocurrency or CBDCs issued by other countries.

Englands Unease

While UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak suggested that the Bank of Englands CBDC project be dubbed Britcoin when he was Chancellor in 2021, the endeavor should not be confused with Satoshi Nakamotos namesake.

A consensus has not been reached on whether the Bank of England will ultimately pursue a CBDCor whether it would even use blockchain technologybut the UK central bank and HM Treasury has explored the possibility since 2021.

The digital pound, explored in a recent Consultation Paper, is sometimes referred to as digital sterling, the bank says. Yet, Trezors survey of found that among 1,000 Brits, 55% of had heard of the digital pound.

This contrasts with widespread awareness of CBDCs that has circulated in crypto corners for years. Bitcoin OGs like Erik Vorhees have described CBDC an Orwellian spy surveillance nightmare, while American whistleblower Edward Snowden has dubbed them cryptofascist currencies.

Bank of England Says Britcoin CBDC Might Not Be on a Blockchain

The knowledge gap is an order of magnitude more among the general public than within crypto when it comes to CBDCs, said Lubka. I've been paying attention for years. This discussion has been ongoing on for years.

The Trezor survey found that people, while they may not be familiar with CBDC, are wary of the potential features one might have.

When it comes to giving authorities control of their funds, 73% said it would be concerning. Additionally, 67% of Brits were troubled by the idea that CBDCs could expire, with funds going away if theyre not spent.

Echoing the CBDC skepticism of DeSantis, who said that a CBDC could be used to curtail purchases of firearms, 62% of Brtis expressed concern about control over which goods and services could be paid for using the tech.

Trezor Bitcoin Analyst Josef Tetek said in a statement theres a substantial mismatch between peoples knowledge of Britcoin and how it could possibly impact people in the UK.

Its clear that the vast majority of people are not comfortable with financial authorities having the kind of powers that a CBDC could grant them, he said. Before the UK [...] goes too far down the path to roll-out, we need a comprehensive, society-wide debate with ordinary people.
I made a deal with myself. I still needed my smartphone for work, but I would use my flip phone when I ventured out into the world and on weekends. At first, the results were great. My Alcatel was a dumb phone, a Dostoyevsky-The-Idiot-of-phones that helped me see the simplicity in the world. Hell, I was having a spiritual moment. The first week I had my flip phone, I read a book. A whole book! In a week! Nothing like this had happened since I was forced to read a celebrity autobiography for my former job.

Everything seemed possible until my third week away from a touch screen, when I began to feel the pain of relying on an archaic device. One night, while I was out, I found that I had hit my 80-text-messages-a-month limit. Remember those? This is what happens when you can no longer write sonnets over iMessage. Also, youll have to call me and describe that meme youre trying to send, because my phone doesnt do visuals.

Theres no denying that Im more engaged with the world now that Im not attached to an iPhone every minute of the day. But thats because without access to Google Maps, Im getting lost in the world. I now own a map of Manhattan. You know, the paper kind, just in case I dont follow my handwritten directions for the destinations I need to get to during the day.

When I open the map, I look like a confused French tourist from the 90s whos exploring the glorious Big Apple. Instead, Im a longtime New Yorker whos late for a work meeting and pathetically attempting to navigate the Lower East Side.

In addition to the unwieldy map, Ive collected an albatross of vintage tech: an indestructible Walkman Sport CD player like the one I had in high school. I have only two CDs: Natalie Imbruglias Left of the Middle and Madonnas Ray of Light, which used to be my favorite Madonna album, until I recently listened to it all the way through.

Most of the time, I hate the inconvenience of my flip phone. Its cumbersome. It has made me into a fool with a bag full of vestigial tech and a map four times the size of my head. But then I remember how much I hated my dependence on the smartphone. Not to mention my tech-neck hump.
A judge in Washington, D.C., on Friday ordered members of the Proud Boys to pay over $1 million to a historic Black church after it sued the far-right group for destruction of property in a December 2020 episode in which the groups members tore down the churchs large Black Lives Matter sign.

The lawsuit, filed by Metropolitan African Methodist Episcopal Church against the Proud Boys leadership and limited liability company, said several of the groups members climbed over a fence surrounding the church to destroy the sign during a violent clash between supporters and opponents of President Donald J. Trump near the White House. The church sought compensatory damages for tens of thousands of dollars to replace the sign and to cover the cost of increased security.

The ruling by Judge Neal E. Kravitz of the Superior Court of the District of Columbia was a default judgment issued after the defendants, which included Enrique Tarrio, Joseph R. Biggs, Ethan Nordean, Jeremy Bertino, John Turano and over a dozen unknown parties, failed to appear in court.

The additional $1 million awarded in punitive damages represents an amount that the court saw appropriate to both punish the Proud Boys for what they did and also deter them from ever doing it again, said Arthur Ago of the Lawyers Committee for Civil Rights Under Law in a phone interview on Saturday. The committee represented the church.
And the audio experience that emerged from the 124 speakers was unremarkable at best. The xx remix did nicely separate the bass, coming up palpably but not too heavily out of the bottom of the sphere, from the voices around and above. To no compelling end, though, and the albums whispery intimacy was supersized into a much blander grandeur.

The situation was more distressing for Levit. While the spare, spacious chords of Palais de Mari registered more or less cleanly, with only slight fuzz, the sound was muddy for the Bach chorale he played as a prelude; it was the perennial challenge of amplifying acoustic instruments, times 124. And the jittery lighting, a collaboration between Levit and the artist Rirkrit Tiravanija, could hardly have been more uncomprehending of Feldmans glacial austerity.

For all the souped-up spiffiness of the Sonic Sphere, the programming on Saturday felt like a retread of artists who were more interesting when Alex Poots, the Sheds artistic director, presented them during his stint at the Park Avenue Armory uptown.

There, in 2014, the xx did a celebrated (live) residency in front of only a few dozen people per show. Levit, the following year, played Bach as part of an ornate concentration exercise orchestrated by Marina Abramovic. (Will he, now a fixture of New Yorks more unconventional spaces, end up hanging upside-down at the piano once the Perelman Performing Arts Center opens this fall?)

Those Armory shows were more memorable than either Shed set. Both of them on Saturday were under 40 minutes, but I found myself getting antsy well before time was up. Perhaps the audiences at Burning Man, the techno-hippie hedonist bonanza in the Nevada desert where a Sonic Sphere was built last year, were more engrossed, experiencing it on harder drugs than the Coke Zero Id had with dinner.
When Bayard Winthrop, the chief executive of the retailer American Giant, ordered the batch of shirts that his company would advertise for the Fourth of July, he didnt think much of it. The retailer, which has been producing its apparel solely in factories around the United States for more than a decade, perennially leans into its Made in America pitch for Independence Day.

This years batch of crew neck T-shirts are fittingly available in red, white or blue with very little embellishment other than getting straight to the point: Letters that read American Made. They cost $60 each. And they sold out in the first day. Then he ordered another set, which also sold out quickly as well. The company is scrambling to secure its fourth order.

For American Giant, this year is shaping up to be its most lucrative Fourth of July yet.

The company has been using its Made in America status to advertise to consumers since its founding in 2012. But, Mr. Winthrop said, it is now reaching customers at a time when chatter about the global supply chain, re-shoring, trade deal loopholes and sustainability in fashion has moved beyond corporate board rooms and policy circles in Washington.
Little of that common wisdom encourages employers to embrace multigenerational workplaces. Its unfair and I wish you had more recourse. I hope you find a great new employer that embraces all you bring to an organization.

Middle School Never Really Ends

A few years ago, a colleague whom I considered a friend, although not a particularly close one, invited me to their home for dinner. What I thought was a pleasant social evening turned out to be a setup to pry information out of me that was immediately shared without my permission. Since then, our relationship has been chilly. My colleagues efforts to exclude me from social gatherings, and to make sure I know Im being excluded, have recently escalated to middle-school levels of absurdity. Its things like consistently scheduling events on dates when I said I couldnt make it, stage whispers with other colleagues about upcoming plans when Im right there, among other slights. Im beginning to feel pretty isolated in a workplace I used to feel was quite congenial. Any advice? I believe that this colleague will probably leave for another position in a few years, so Im tempted to ride this out because I dont see how responding to these provocations will have a positive outcome.  Anonymous

It is astonishing how many people deal with petty torments in the workplace. I shouldnt be surprised given that I work in academia, a bastion of pettiness, but still  This is a strange, unfortunate situation. You dont say what the nature of the information they pried out of you is or if anything precipitated such a dramatic shift in behavior from a friendly colleague, so its hard to know whats going on here.

Waiting it out for two to three years is probably the most realistic and frictionless way forward, but thats a long time to feel isolated in your workplace. Why are your other colleagues going along with this? I have more questions than answers, but you should stand up for yourself! Point out that your colleague is scheduling events when you made it clear you arent available. Create your own plans with colleagues. Meet absurd with absurd if you have to.

Corporate Theft

I work for a nonprofit with more than 800 employees. Salaries arent high, but we get a 2-to-1 match on our retirement plan contributions, which is significant. The organization restructured last year, and our retirement plan administrator changed. For one month, we couldnt make contributions, and therefore didnt receive a match. We were told if we made up the amount for that month, wed get the match at the end of the year. Its now over a year later, and no one has received the match. HR blames the company that administers our retirement plan and says it is working on a fix. I feel like being over a year late to pay into our retirement plans is wage theft! People have left the organization and I assume theyll never get the match. Is this worth getting upset over, even though its only a few hundred dollars I wont even get to use until decades from now?  Anonymous

This is certainly some kind of theft, however unintentional. A few hundred dollars matter to most people, particularly when that money accrues interest over time. Unless they chase that payment, your former colleagues will never see that money, which Im sure the organization knows.

Those of you still working there should continue to press the issue. You are owed the money and if the situation was reversed and you owed the organization, you can best believe management would do everything in its power to collect.

You have to calibrate how upset you get about this and how much you escalate the issue, with how much you care. This probably isnt something that requires a scorched earth approach, but you can ask HR for specifics on how the company is working on it and a timeline for resolution. Stay on this until you get the money you are owed.

Write to Roxane Gay at workfriend@nytimes.com.
Roseate has been selling its pearl and pearl-inspired jewelry only since May, but its founder spent most of her career working for a considerably more established retailer: Tiffany & Company.

The idea for Roseate came up in 2021, when Pamela Cloud, who worked on the business side at Tiffany for 25 years, eventually leading the companys merchandising, was catching up over lunch with her former boss, Michael J. Kowalski. He was chief executive at Tiffany from 1999 to 2015, with a temporary return in 2017, and board chairman from 2003 to 2017.

We were talking about things, Ms. Cloud said in an interview at Roseates headquarters, in a co-working space in New Yorks Little Italy neighborhood. That if you were to build a brand differently, any brand, how would you do it? That then got us to talking about materials, and we share this love of pearls.
But the school makes an ethical commitment, he said. Schools like Saint Anns are not just educational institutions. Theyre communities with human commitments to the children in their charge. Saint Anns thrives on being a community, and one would think that Saint Anns would be wholly transparent about standards and expectations, academic as well as behavioral.

In the days following Elliss suicide in May 2021, the grief Mr. Gural felt was really intense and overwhelming physically, he said. He wrote to the head of the school, Vincent Tompkins, describing how he lifted his sons lifeless body and placed it on his bed to cover it with a blanket.

Youre just hit with waves of uncontrollable convulsions of pain, he said recently at his kitchen table in Red Hook. Theres a tremendous amount of guilt and regret. Theres levels of stress that are so far above what youve ever experienced in your life. Theres layers upon layers of the experience that, if you were only dealing with one of them, would be completely overwhelming, and youve got 50 layers.

The family searched for answers. How was it that a school that prided itself on nurturing the talents of every student could tell their son after nine years that he no longer had a place there? What responsibility did the school have, to them and to other families, to disclose its process of counseling out certain students who did not meet unspecified criteria?

The parents also questioned themselves. Ellis had always been up and down emotionally, Mr. Gural said, and they had shielded him from some of their conversations with the school. When they told him that the school would not allow him to return the next year, it was devastating, Mr. Gural said.
In Brooklyn, Councilwoman Jennifer Gutierrez, a Democrat, appeared to win her primary with 2,971 votes, which were 81 percent of the total ballots cast in that race.

In the Bronx, District Attorney Darcel D. Clark soared to an easy victory in the Democratic primary by winning a little over 20,000 votes in a borough of nearly 1.4 million people.

The dynamic is especially problematic in New York City because Republicans are largely noncompetitive in these kinds of races and so the Democratic primary has essentially replaced the general election. Lackluster primary turnout stymies competition even further, emboldening donors and special interest groups that include political clubs, the real estate industry and NIMBYs.

The low turnout may help explain why the actions of elected officials in the city are sometimes bizarrely out of step with the needs of the majority of the constituents they serve. State lawmakers and Gov. Kathy Hochul failed to produce a single meaningful piece of legislation on housing this year, for example, even though the housing crisis is clearly the most urgent issue facing New York. But will voters show up at the polls and express anger about this inaction? The usual Albany calculus is: Nah.

The limited competition also tends to encourage bad behavior among politicians. Thats probably one reason Mayor Eric Adams felt comfortable publicly berating a distraught constituent in recent days who dared to ask him why he had allowed the citys Rent Guidelines Board to raise rents in thousands of regulated apartments.
In a staggering report last month, the Department of Justice documented pervasive abuse, illegal use of force, racial bias and systemic dysfunction in the Minneapolis Police Department. City police officers engaged in brutality or made racist comments, even as a department investigator rode along in a patrol car. Complaints about police abuse were often slow-walked or dismissed without investigation. And after George Floyds death, instead of ending the policy of racial profiling, the police just buried the evidence.

The Minneapolis report was shocking, but it wasnt surprising. It doesnt read much differently from recent Justice Department reports about the police departments in Chicago, Baltimore, Cleveland, Albuquerque, New Orleans, Ferguson, Mo., or any of three recent reports from various sources about Minneapolis, from 2003, 2015 and 2016.

Amid spiking nationwide homicide rates in 2020 and 2021 and a continuing shortage of police officers, many in law enforcement have pointed to investigations like these  along with defund the police-style activism  as the problem. With all the criticism they are weathering, the argument goes, officers are so hemmed in, they can no longer do their job right; eventually they quit, defeated and demoralized. Fewer police officers, more crime.

Lying just below the surface of that characterization is a starkly cynical message to marginalized communities: You can have accountable and constitutional policing, or you can have safety. But you cant have both.
To the Editor:

Re SOS: Keep TCM Afloat, by Maureen Dowd (column, June 25):

Thank you, Ms. Dowd, for your beautifully expressed column about the unique place that Turner Classic Movies holds in our lives and culture, and your appeal to keep it intact as it undergoes painful budgetary and staffing changes under the ownership of Warner Bros. Discovery.

I speak as one of 25 TCM viewers chosen in a national contest to be a guest programmer on TCM for its 25th anniversary in 2019. Each of us was asked to introduce a film that meant something highly personal to us and to dedicate it to someone special in our lives.

One woman chose to introduce the 1968 detective film Bullitt and dedicated it to her late father, explaining that she switched on TCM immediately upon returning from his funeral and was struck by how much he resembled the films star, Steve McQueen. She sensed in that serendipitous moment that her father was still with her, and it sustained her.

I chose the 1958 Oscar-winning musical Gigi and dedicated it to my wife. The composer Frederick Loewe gave us our first wedding gift after I spent the day with him for a newspaper story I was writing as he prepared a stage version for Broadway. His gift was tickets to a performance of the show.
U.S. Army Master Sgt. Andre Rush, "Strongest Chef In the Army" and U.S. Marine Master Sgt. Andrew Atkinson, chef for the White House, demonstrate how to make "Chocolate Steak and Seafood Sauage" during the 37th Annual Military Culinary Competition in Fort Lee, Va., March 2, 2012.

Editor's note: This article discusses the veteran suicide epidemic. If you or a veteran you know are struggling with thoughts of suicide, dial 988 for immediate assistance. You are not alone!

Did you know that military service members are more likely to die by suicide than in battle, and veterans are 50% more likely to die by suicide than their non-veteran peers?

And, its very preventable.

One of the veterans leading the fight to help prevent veteran suicide is Chef Andre Rush. You might not know his name, but we can all but guarantee you have seen his biceps on social media. Chef Rush is a former Army Master Sergeant who went viral when a picture showed up online of him cooking a meal at the White House while rocking 24-inch biceps.

People quickly found out that he served under Presidents Clinton, Bush, Obama and Trump and had a long career in the Army as a cook and trainer. But now Chef Rush has a new mission. He has teamed up with USAA to Face the Fight of veteran suicide.

Face the Fight is a first-of-its-kind coalition. Headed by USAA, The Humana Foundation and Reach Resilience, an Endeavors Foundation, their mission is to cut veteran suicide by half over the next six years. The coalition will invest $41 million in philanthropic grants and will focus on supporting nonprofit programs with specific focus areas in preventing suicide.

Chef Rush, who is currently on Kitchen Commando on Tubi has found therapy in cooking to aid his Post Traumatic Stress. But he has seen people he has known and loved who have been lost to this battle and hes ready to share those stories with you.

In Chef Rushs latest endeavor, he has partnered with Face the Fight to assist in amplifying the coalitions effort to break the stigma around seeking help and providing resources for those who are struggling. We Are The Mighty was able to sit with Chef Rush and learn more about him and his campaign to help mitigate veteran suicide.

WATM: Chef, its a pleasure to meet you. Preventing veteran suicides is important for all of us. Do you think awareness has subsided since the end of the war in Afghanistan and minimal troops in Iraq?

Rush: I don't think the awareness in our society has subsided, but I think that the world went into different traumas and distractions. You think about the pandemic, and we had other things that popped up on social media. I mean you kind of get distracted and it feels like no time was the right time, but I think anytime is the perfect time to deal with this and remind everybody to pull together. Because now that all that has passed, we're here right now and we have to deal with it. Thats what drew me to work with USAA on this issue.

WATM: Tell us about the USAA program Face the Fight and what drew you to them.

Rush: To work with USAA is an absolute honor and to see the magnitude of what they're doing on it is amazing. It is going to change so many different lives and so many people from different demographics. Not just military veterans but also their families.

People don't talk about that a lot. They always talk about the military and veterans, but their families get ignored. But with this program, we educate everybody because this affects the whole entire family if you think about everything that's happening with veteran suicide.

Retired Army Master Sgt. Andre Rush makes seafood sausage during a food demonstration March 14 as part of the Joint Culinary Training Exercise (JCTE) at Fort Lee, Va. The 44th annual JCTE officially started March 9 at MacLaughlin Fitness Center and continues until March 14. The exercise, administered by the Joint Culinary Center of Excellence, is the largest American Culinary Federation-sanctioned competition in North America. The exercise showcased the talent of more than 200 military chefs from all military services around the globe to include three international teams.

WATM: When it comes to veteran suicide, a lot of times the general public doesnt think about families.

Rush: Exactly, that is usually the first thing I hit on; when I go and speak. The first thing I do is speak to the families. I dont speak to the veteran first because when you think about us, we have been in battle. We have been trained to be in stressful situations and have done that for years. But think of the wife, husband or kids. They didnt have that training and they suffer from the trauma second-hand too.

WATM: A lot of veterans want to be the tough guy that pushes through. What advice do you give them?

Rush: That's a great question because I was one of those guys, you know. We get into a situation with these stigmas where you look at a guy like me and look at a guy like you. We are big guys, and you think, There is nothing wrong with them  they are rocks, no they are mountains, no they are planets! So, you think nothing can happen to them. We pick up habits and mindsets in the military that we are invincible, indestructible, and unbreakable because we worked out with other alpha males and females.

You came to the point where it's like, OK I'm not going to say anything if he doesn't say anything and Well, he didnt say anything either so I wont say anything.

But we just need to come out together and pick up our phones and do a buddy check. Like a real check, not a, You good? but a deep dive to get inside of someones mindset and find out whats really going on in that persons head. To see if there is some type of underlying issue.

And not just a text. Dont text because someone can just text, I am good and you will drop it. No, pick up the phone and call and actually talk to your friend.

WATM: When did you decide to get help?

Rush: I came to the conclusion that, Hey I'm not OK and that was OK, but it was not OK not to say anything about it. When I came out and said I wasnt OK nationally, I had a rush of veterans from all over saying I needed you to say that. I needed you to say that and now I can go out and speak up myself.

And they do and that's the first step of it. But sometimes it's just that we get tripped up and get caught in our own head.

The first time I went to my therapist I had my head down as I was walking in, and I saw another alpha male type passing me with his head down too. By the time I was done, I was walking back to the elevator with my head up and he ran up to me and said, Hey brother, if you are here then I know I need to be here too. And we hugged and I never put my head down again. Ive held it high and its still up that high.

WATM: You lost a friend to suicide, tell us about them and how that motivated you to talk about this issue?

Rush: I have lost a few to suicide, but that one in particular  he was one of my soldiers. Something had happened to one of his loved ones while he was in Iraq, and he was on a compassionate reassignment. They took him from Iraq and assigned him to me. They didnt tell me why, but I told him, I am going to work you and train you and teach you everything you need to know. And he was ok with that.

But a month later, he broke down and told me what happened with his family and why he was on compassionate reassignment and that everything wasnt rosy.

The military put him back on assignment where he had just left and all the trauma had just happened and he couldnt deal with it. I personally knew he couldnt but there was nothing I could do. As far as the military was concerned, they wanted him back where they wanted him.

He was a very strong, happy-go-lucky and energetic soldier. He thought he would be OK, but he wasnt. When things happen to you, you might not be aware of how much it affects you. And we have to learn to go our leadership and say, hey I dont think he or she is ok. We need to help him or her.

U.S. Army Master Sgt. Andre Rush, "Strongest Chef In the Army" saws into a block ice for the Ice Carving Competition in Fort Lee, Va., March 3, 2012. Members of each branch of the military competed in various culinary categories during the 37th Annual Military Culinary Competition. (U.S. Army photo by Spc. Daneille Hendrix)

WATM: How do you find that cooking helps with PTSD symptoms?

Rush: Thats a great question. Cooking saved my life. It feels like going to the gym but I cant go to the gym all time, but I do have to eat. So I do this thing called Cooking and Cope. I do this with a lot of military veterans where I get them a mystery basket that is full of food. No recipes, no rhyme or reason, and just have them cook the food. From that comes a lot of anger then laughter as they come up with recipes. But then it becomes an educational team-building exercise. Then I teach them about what the food does for them. We also get their spouses and children involved too so they can have fun and learn.

So for me, it became a coping tool in a world full of triggers.

WATM: Tell us about your pushup routine. How do you break up 2,222 in a day? You dont do them all at once do you?

Rush: I do them all at once. I tried to break them up throughout the day, but it was too tedious for me because I am a busy person. So what I did was set aside an hour and a half a day and get them done. I get up at 3:00 in the morning and meditate. Then I do pushups. I do sets of 125 each which breaks down to 17.76 sets which is an important number to me, too.

I am an endurance trainer. I do things to the extreme. It helps me keep my muscle memory, it keeps me young, it keeps me competitive, and keeps my metabolism up.

WATM: You served under many presidents; you cooked for everyone from President Clinton to President Trump, right? That's got to be another level of pressure. How do you deal with that?

Rush: I manage my life by starting my day with meditation. I meditate about anything negative because not every day is going to be a great day. So, I turn those into positives.

Another thing is I compete all over the world and I learn to thrive off pressure. So I tell my guys, You dont sweat unless I sweat. And I am not going to sweat!

I dont look at pressure as leading to failure. And at the White House, you cant think of pressure. You just have to know that you have to work as one combined unit to make the best of whatever the situation might be.

Face the Fight is a new first-of-its-kind coalition comprised of corporations (two Fortune 100, to start), foundations and organizations who are joining together to raise awareness and support for veteran suicide prevention. The aspiration is to cut the veteran suicide rate in half by 2030.
SUNDAY BUSINESS

An article last Sunday about financial planning by L.G.B.T.Q. people misstated the year that Yassin Adams arrived in the United States from Egypt. It was 2012, not 2015. The article also misstated the amount he pays for hormone care every three months. It is $500, not $5,000.

The Strategies column on June 18 about whether stocks are in a bull or bear market incorrectly described stock market returns over 20-year periods. Over 20-year periods since 1926, stock investors have had positive returns; the stock market has not always risen over periods of 20 years or longer.

ARTS & LEISURE

An article on June 18 about a new wave of raunchy comedy movies misspelled the given name of an actor in Anyone but You. He is Glen Powell, not Glenn.

MAGAZINE

An article on Page 34 this weekend about the evangelical Marcos Witt incorrectly describes the company Gloo. It is a technology platform for ministry leaders, not a ministry-management app.
There are the fireworks. Its hard to tell the difference between guns and fireworks, and here there is always something on the news about a shooting or something, so it makes me nervous, she said. They are also bad for the environment. They release a lot of toxic chemicals.

This year she is skipping the holiday altogether, opting instead to travel with her church youth group to visit a Navajo nation community in Arizona, but the trip was canceled because of a Covid outbreak.

Some Americans, especially younger people, are rethinking whether they want to celebrate Independence Day. A survey by YouGov found that 56 percent of American adults planned to join in the festivities this year.

Of course, there are many people, including celebrities, still getting into the patriotic spirit. Demi Lovato, Post Malone and Sheryl Crow are among many artists performing in CNNs Fourth of July Special. Ja Rule is playing live at Coney Island as part of an Independence Day celebration.

Marissa Vivori, 29, a tech product manager in Manhattan, remembers the last time she celebrated the Fourth of July, a few summers ago. She was going to the Hamptons, she said, on the most packed Long Island Rail Road train she have ever been on. I didnt get a seat and I was standing in the aisle, she said, and the toilet overflowed, and we all had to hold our bags.
For the Whiteheads, an African American family living in the city of Baltimore, race is discussed at the dinner table. In the car on the way to work and school and games. In the backyard while the sons practice sports.

So when the Supreme Court struck down race-conscious admissions at colleges and universities, effectively ending the practice known as affirmative action, the family began talking about it earnestly, echoing the range of emotions felt by people across the country who are invested in the ruling.

Though the result was anticipated, Karsonya Wise Whitehead, 54, a college professor, said she was so devastated that she had to sit down to process the type of history being made at that moment.

Her husband, Johnnie Whitehead, 59, the principal of a Christian school, said he took no joy in the ruling but was ambivalent about affirmative action. He is hopeful that it is no longer needed, but fears it is.
For the head of admissions at a medical school, Dr. Mark Henderson is pretty blunt when sizing up the profession.

Mostly rich kids get to go to medical school, he said.

In his role at the medical school at the University of California, Davis, Dr. Henderson has tried to change that, developing an unorthodox tool to evaluate applicants: the socioeconomic disadvantage scale, or S.E.D.

The scale rates every applicant from zero to 99, taking into account their life circumstances, such as family income and parental education. Admissions decisions are based on that score, combined with the usual portfolio of grades, test scores, recommendations, essays and interviews.

The disadvantage scale has helped turn U.C. Davis into one of the most diverse medical schools in the country  notable in a state that voted in 1996 to ban affirmative action.
Frustrated Baltimore officials pleaded on Sunday with residents to come forward with information about a shooting at a crowded neighborhood block party that left two people dead and 28 others wounded, many of them teenagers.

A motive for the shooting, which was reported at 12:30 a.m. in Baltimores southern neighborhood of Brooklyn, was unclear, but the authorities said there was more than one assailant. It was unclear whether the victims were targeted.

Officials said an 18-year-old woman, Aaliyah Gonzalez, was dead at the scene of the shooting, which happened at Brooklyn Homes, a public housing complex. A 20-year-old man, Kylis Fagbemi, was later pronounced dead at a hospital, the police said.

The victims were between 13 and 32 years old, the citys acting police commissioner, Col. Richard Worley, said at a news conference Sunday afternoon.
House Republican leaders working to write and pass the spending bills that fund the government face a major hurdle: Their own party  especially their most powerful, arch-conservative faction  has spent the last decade assailing federal spending and, with growing frequency, casting vote after vote against it.

G.O.P. members of the House have supported spending bills less than half the time over the last dozen years, according to a New York Times analysis of such votes since 2011. Hard-right lawmakers associated with the Freedom Caucus, which has been the most outspoken about slashing spending, have voted in favor of government funding bills less than 20 percent of the time. And a smaller bloc of ultraconservative members who have threatened to blockade the House floor if their priorities are not met has almost always voted against appropriations bills  in an average of 93 percent of cases.

Despite all of that, Speaker Kevin McCarthy, working to manage a right-wing revolt, has agreed to tailor the spending bills to the demands of a group of lawmakers who have rarely, if ever, supported such measures during their time in Congress. At their insistence, he has embraced funding levels far below what he agreed to in May as part of a deal with President Biden to suspend the debt limit and avoid a federal default.

The approach could make it difficult to move the bills through the House and place the chamber on a collision course with the Democrat-controlled Senate that could lead to a government shutdown this fall. It promises to further complicate a process that was already going to be extraordinarily difficult, as top members of Congress try for the first time in years to enact individual spending bills to fund all parts of the government in an orderly fashion and avoid the usual year-end pileup.
A closely watched political fight is developing in North Carolina over voting rights and control of elections, as Democrats aim to recapture a presidential battleground and Republicans look to win back the governors office.

Much as Georgia, Florida and Texas drew an outpouring of national attention and political cash as Republicans moved to restrict voting in the heated months after the 2020 election, North Carolina is poised for headline-grabbing confrontations over nearly every lever of the electoral apparatus.

In the Republican-led legislature, the State House is considering two bills passed by the Senate that would sharply alter how elections are run, adding voting restrictions and effectively neutering the state elections board, which is now controlled by Gov. Roy Cooper, a Democrat. And in a looming redistricting clash, the newly conservative State Supreme Court has ordered lawmakers to redraw the states congressional and state legislative maps, which will most likely be far friendlier to Republicans.

In North Carolina, every little edge could matter: The state, despite a long string of Republican presidential victories interrupted by Barack Obamas 2008 triumph, has grown increasingly close. Donald J. Trump squeezed by in 2020 by just over a percentage point, and President Bidens allies have signaled that they plan to invest in the state in 2024, seeing it as potentially winnable. Mr. Trump, Gov. Ron DeSantis of Florida and other Republican candidates have already held events in North Carolina as they contend for their partys nomination.
As fireworks lit up the three-mile stretch of coastline in the capital of Australias remote Northern Territory, a swath of grass along the beach went up in flames.

A few revelers used tree branches to beat down the blaze; one man poured water on the fire with one hand, clutching a beer in another. But most, having judged that the fire probably would not spread, were content to carry on setting off fireworks and waiting for firefighters to arrive to douse the conflagration, which they did after about 15 minutes. About three feet from the fire, close enough to feel its heat, a couple lit sparklers and danced with their two young children.

Welcome to Territory Day in the Northern Territory, the one time and place in mainland Australia where anyone can set off fireworks, no permits needed and no questions asked.
Masaki Sashima gazed through the fog one recent afternoon onto the gray waters of the Tokachi River in Hokkaido, Japans northernmost island. From here, his Indigenous people, the Ainu, once used spears and nets to catch the salmon they regarded as gifts from the gods.

Under Japanese law, river fishing for this salmon, an essential part of Ainu cuisine, trade and spiritual culture, has been off limits for more than a century. Mr. Sashima, 72, said it was time for his people to regain what they see as a natural right, and restore one of the last vestiges of a decimated Ainu identity.

In the past in our culture, the salmon were for everybody to enjoy within the community, he said. The salmon is here for us, and we want to ensure our right to be able to take this fish.

Mr. Sashima is leading a group that is suing the central and prefectural governments to reclaim salmon fishing rights, four years after Japans Parliament passed a law recognizing the Ainu as the nations Indigenous people.
The mayor of a suburb of Paris said on Sunday that protesters had rammed a car into his home and then set the vehicle on fire, injuring his wife and one of his children, as violent demonstrations across France over the police killing of a 17-year-old stretched into a fifth night.

Last night, a milestone was reached in terms of horror and ignominy, the mayor, Vincent Jeanbrun, of LHay-les-Roses, a town to the south of the capital, said in a statement on Twitter.

In a separate attack, the police said on Twitter that rioters had tried to set fire to a car belonging to another mayor, in the town of La Riche, near the city of Tours, southwest of Paris.

Across the rest of France, Saturday evening had generally been calmer than recent nights, during which hundreds of protests have taken place nationwide. But still, local news media reported rioting, looting and clashes in Marseille, Frances second-largest city, and hundreds more people were arrested.
(Bloomberg) -- China is on a natural gas shopping spree, and officials are happy for importers to keep striking deals even after a global energy crisis has eased.

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The government continues to back efforts by state-owned buyers to sign long-term contracts and even invest in export facilities, in order to bolster energy security through the middle of the century, according to people who have had meetings with policymakers.

The nation is on track to be the worlds top importer of liquefied natural gas in 2023. And for the third straight year, Chinese companies are agreeing to buy more of it on a long-term basis than any single nation, according to data compiled by Bloomberg News.

China is looking well into the future to avoid a repeat of energy shortages, while also seeking to fuel economic growth. Long-term LNG contracts are attractive because shipments are promised at a relatively steady price compared to the spot market, where gas surged to an all-time after Russias invasion of Ukraine.

Energy security has always been a priority for China, said Toby Copson, global head of trading and advisory at Trident LNG in Shanghai. Having ample supply in their portfolio allows them to manage future volatility. I would expect to see more.

The deal-making efforts will help underpin global export projects, strengthening the role the seaborne fuel will play in the energy mix. And as suppliers move to woo Chinese importers, Beijings influence in the market is set to increase.

China began its push for long-term contracts in 2021, after relations with the US improved. While imports dipped last year partly due to weaker demand amid Covid restrictions, Chinese buyers renewed the drive after the invasion of Ukraine cut pipeline gas to Europe.

The resulting high prices and global competition for the super-chilled fuel provided a quick lesson in the need for stable supplies. Part of Chinas push for energy security is to diversify imports among various countries as a cushion against further geopolitical disruptions.

Several other importers, including India, are also looking to sign more deals to avoid future shortages and curb dependence on spot deliveries. Yet China is locking in contracts at a much faster pace. So far this year, 33% of long-term LNG volumes signed went to China, according to Bloomberg calculations.

In the last month, state-owned China National Petroleum Corp. sealed a 27-year deal with Qatar and took a stake in the exporters massive expansion project, while ENN Energy Holdings Ltd. inked a decades-spanning contract with US developer Cheniere Energy Inc. Supplies from both contracts are slated to begin as soon as 2026.

More deals are in the offing as negotiations span boardrooms from Singapore to Houston. State-owned giants including Cnooc Ltd. and Sinopec are in discussions with the US, while smaller firms such as Zhejiang Provincial Energy Group Co. and Beijing Gas Group Co. are also searching for deals, according to traders.

Qatar is in talks with several Chinese buyers for sales contracts that could last more than 20 years, the traders said. Sinopec is among companies holding talks to invest in a gas development in Saudi Arabia, which may include the construction of facilities to export the fuel, Bloomberg reported in May.

The deals will help feed the roughly dozen new import terminals that are slated to start construction across Chinas coastal cities in this decade. The nations LNG imports could rise to as high as 138 million tons by 2033, about double current levels, according to Norwegian consultant Rystad Energy.

Currently, over half of Chinas LNG demand from 2030 to 2050 remains uncontracted, said Xi Nan, a Rystad analyst.

The government isnt forcing companies to sign deals, and traders will only ink agreements that have attractive prices, the traders said. Chinese buyers are also using the new LNG contracts to expand portfolios and unlock lucrative trading opportunities.

The bullish demand outlook isnt certain, however, especially as China boosts gas production at home, while overland shipments from Russia could rise if new pipelines are constructed. An excess of supply increases the risk that LNG import terminals are likely to sit idle more frequently, Cnooc senior analyst Xie Xuguang warned last month.

Nevertheless, power outages and shortages over the last few years have changed the thinking of Chinas policymakers, who now favor energy security over fuel importers facing a possible oversupply, according to traders briefed on the governments strategy.

A lack of coal  Chinas mainstay fuel for power generation  triggered widespread electricity curtailments to factories for a brief period in 2021, while a drop in hydropower output prompted a shortage in 2022, slowing economic growth. In response, the country vowed to increase mining capacity, and production has risen to record levels, keeping storage sites well stocked and reducing imports last year.

Now, policymakers want to do the same with gas. Beijing is pushing the energy giants to also lift gas production at home, cutting drilling costs to increase self-sufficiency, according to people close to the government.

Given that new pipelines are being discussed but have yet to be finalized, Chinese buyers are still looking to secure supplies from the LNG market, said Michal Meidan, head of China Energy Research at the Oxford Institute for Energy Studies.

The more deals China signs, the more control it has over global LNG supply. China is already playing a key role in balancing the market, reselling its contracted shipment to the neediest buyers when demand at home is weak, with that trend set to expand as the new deals start this decade.

Larger and more established buyers typically possess greater negotiation power compared to smaller or emerging players, said Rystads Xi. Continuing to sign long-term contracts is a logical decision.

--With assistance from Ruth Liao, Anna Shiryaevskaya and Dan Murtaugh.

(Updates with details of Chinas gas investment discussions in the 12th paragraph.)

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Russian forces launched a wave of drone attacks on Ukraines capital before dawn on Sunday, the first aerial assault on Kyiv by unmanned vehicles in nearly two weeks.

Serhiy Popko, the head of the citys military administration, said that air defenses had destroyed all of the drones in Kyivs airspace. Debris from downed drones damaged three homes in the region, injuring one man, the administration said. No one was killed.

Russia has repeatedly launched overnight attacks on Kyiv  using both drones and missiles  since its full-scale invasion began in February 2022, and Ukraines complex air-defense network has become increasingly adept at intercepting those attacks. But even successful interceptions pose a danger: Last week, air defenses fended off a 20-missile barrage that still killed five people after falling debris hit a high-rise building and started a fire.

Sundays attack, which began after air-raid alarms sounded around 2:30 a.m., was the first time in 12 days that Russian forces had used Iranian-made attack drones to target the capital, Mr. Popko said in a statement on the Telegram messaging app.
An Offaly school has celebrated a 40 years in existence this year, having been established in 1983.

Coolderry Central School is an amalgamation of two former schools in the parish, namely Ballyegan National school and Coolderry National School.

Down through the years, Coolderry Central School has undergone many major improvements. At the time of the establishment of the school, the staff consisted of Mr George Cunningham, Mrs Anne Kennedy, Mrs Lucy McCarthy, Mr Tom Lupton and Miss Una Cleary.

The only member of the original staff who has remained there to this day is Mrs Una Teehan (nee Cleary), who took on the role of Principal almost twenty years ago and who has with the help of the Boards of Management initiated major developments at the school such as the designated infant soft play area, new entrance doors, improved security, a sensory room, provision of interactive white boards throughout the school, new floor coverings , upgrading of the staff room with the installation of a new kitchen unit and facilities, provision of a new office for the Principal a computer room, an office for the secretary, the upgrading and refurbishment of facilities within the school and landscaping of the school grounds to name just a few - all of which ensure that the school today looks very impressive indeed.

On May 26th, a formal celebration of 40 years of the school was held at the school. The weather was absolutely magnificent. There was glorious sunshine and the formal event which was held outdoors on the school grounds began with Mrs Una Teehan extending a very warm welcome to the huge crowd in attendance. This was followed by an outdoor concert provided by the school choir under the direction of Mrs Geraldine Bryan. Throughout the evening, the pupils performed a vast array of songs, instrumental music and dance to the enjoyment of all present. The pupils were absolutely fantastic, finishing with the Offaly Rover with everyone joining in.

The music was interspersed with presentations and words of welcome from Mrs Marie Kennedy , Chairperson of the Board of Management, Mr Paddy Bates, former Principal, and Mrs Una Teehan, the current Principal. Presentations were made by Mrs Una Teehan to former members of staff in recognition of their dedication contribution and service over many years, current staff members who continue this great tradition and also to Mrs Geraldine Bryan, who has been a constant support to the school at Confirmations, Holy Communions, Graduations and many other celebrations, giving of her time and expertise freely over many years. Mrs Una Teehan acknowledged the huge contribution of all who have worked in the school in any capacity over the past 40 years and thanked them for their dedication.

A presentation of a beautiful bouquet of flowers was also made to Mrs Una Teehan by Mrs Marie Kennedy, Chairperson of Board of Management, on behalf of all present at the 40th celebration. She wished Mrs Teehan a very happy retirement as Una, who after 42 years in the parish, beginning her teaching career, initially, as a newly qualified teacher in1981, in one of the prefabricated buildings which pre-dated the current school, has decided to retire. Una is very sad to be leaving as the school community has been an integral part of her life for the past 42 years.

As School Principal, Una has always encouraged pupils to achieve their potential. Down through the years, the pupils participated in numerous initiatives and won many local and national awards for their projects and sporting achievements, which have given students great life skills. Una has always encouraged pupils to participate in various sporting activities and is very proud of what the pupils have achieved individually, for the school and for the county.

Una congratulated and praised their current camogie champions who had just won the Cumann na mBunscol B final the previous day in Birr gaining victory over Kinnitty in a very exciting closely fought final, which was a fantastic achievement for all of the panel and for the school.

Una also acknowledged the support of the Boards of Management and the Parents Associations over the years and had a special word of thanks to the current Board of Management and the current Parents Association who give so freely of their personal time for the benefit of the school community.

Una also acknowledged the wider community for their great friendship and generous support. She was very appreciative of the support of the local GAA, the Camogie club and the Community Threshing group under the guidance of Ray Dempsey, who have provided huge support to the school over many years. Una expressed a special word of thanks to both Ray Dempsey and Coleman Coady who ensured that the marquee which the Threshing Committee very kindly supplied for the refreshments, was delivered and set up for the occasion with the help of some parents and members of the Board of Management.

After the cutting of the cake in honour of the occasion by former Principal Mr Paddy Bates and Mrs Una Teehan, all in attendance were invited to relax and chat over a cup of tea and other refreshments for both children and adults, which were available in the marquee at the back of the school. Food items were very kindly donated by parents. The teas were provided by the Parents Association.

There was a very large and extensive photographic exhibition relating to life not only in the school, but in the parish in general over the past 40 years throughout the school along with other memorabilia of times gone by on display in the various classrooms for all to view at their leisure.

It was a very enjoyable and relaxing evening, which continued late into the night for all in attendance. It afforded people the opportunity to reminisce and catch up as they recalled times gone by while wandering through the classrooms viewing the photos on the display boards and on the Power points, or as they sat out in the beautiful sunshine on what was truly a memorable occasion for the 40th celebration of Coolderry Central School on Friday May 26,2023.
JKL Street in Edenderry has been chosen as the location for Offaly's first Rainbow Pedestrian Crossing.

Cllr Mark Hackett told the Tribune that, during a consultation with the Council's Area Engineer, it was decided to opt for the crossing on this street.

Cllr Hackett pointed out that pictures in the media of the LGBT+ crossings show rainbow-coloured crossings running across the road but this is not what he wants. I am looking for minor painting of the roadway, no more than about a foot in width, adjacent to the pavement. I am conscious of the fact deviations from established zebra crossings are considered unsafe, unexpected and could present a danger to road users. At some crossings in Ireland the local authorities have painted rainbow colours running alongside the zebra markings, but Cllr Hackett said he isn't seeking this.

There was a mixed reaction to the Councillor's call for the creation of the crossing during the June meeting of Offaly County Council.

In a Notice of Motion submitted to the Council meeting, the councillor called for the introduction of the crossing, at an appropriate location, in recognition of the marginalised position of members of the LGBT+ community and to coincide with Pride Month. The motion was seconded by Cllr Sean O'Brien.

Some councillors told the meeting that they were not against the LGBT+ community but they were wondering about the wording of the councillor's motion. However, in spite of their misgivings, they didn't submit a countermotion.

Cllr Hackett said the Crossing is a sympathetic gesture and there are quite a few Rainbow Crossings in Ireland, including Limerick, Cork, Dublin, Waterford and Portlaoise.

Cllr John Leahy told the meeting that he doesn't think the LGBT+ community are marginalised. He said the community has enjoyed a lot of publicity in recent years and it's time to equally focus on other marginalised groups. "We have Pride Month, we have flags in most schools. We have the flag outside the Aras when asked for. Where does this stop?

Cllr Tony McCormack said he also had a problem with the word marginalised in the motion. Cllr John Clendennen agreed. He said there's a danger of finding prejudice, of believing that certain groups or individuals are being prejudicial, when in fact no such prejudice exists. Cllr Clendennen warned that they should be cautious about appearing to favour one group or groups over other groups.

Cllr Hackett told the Tribune this week that he was saddened to hear negative reactions to his proposal. He said his proposal is coming from a good place. If other groups asked me for a similar show of support I would give it. For example, if Ukrainians asked me for a display of solidarity I would have no hesitation. Through my work on gender-based violence in public spaces I have become increasingly aware of how isolated and vulnerable LGBT+ people can feel. This crossing is a symbolic gesture, designed to raise awareness of the need for inclusiveness and safety. I feel that our work as allies of LGBT+ people in Offaly must be proactive. The idea of this Rainbow Crossing is to bring this visible reminder of inclusion and safety to Offaly."

Christina Fitzharris, Coordinator at the Midlands LGBT+ Project, pointed out that Offaly is one of the only counties left in Ireland without an annual pride parade or festival and it is imperative that we send messages of solidarity to our local LGBT+ people in Offaly that they are safe and welcome here, especially at this time when reported hate crime and hate crime related incidents have risen 23% in the past year. A rainbow crossing will help show support and allyship to our LGBT+ community as it has in many other counties across the country."
A teenager who trespassed on a property in Roscrea has been jailed by Judge Elizabeth MacGrath in Nenagh District Court.

Sgt Regina McCarthy told the court that Tommy Murphy, 19, of 24 Ard Na Greine, Roscrea, entered the curtilage of a house at Tullaskeagh, Roscrea, at 3.14am on December 26 last year.

He was seen putting his hand on the front door and the couple inside the house were concerned and worried about his activities at such an early hour in the morning.

He subsequently gave a voluntary statement to gardai in which he made full admissions in relation to being on the private property and identified himself on CCTV footage captured at the scene.

In a separate incident he was confronted by gardai along with another individual encroaching on a childcare facility at Corville, Roscrea, at 11.20pm on February 7 this year.

He was subsequently arrested and conveyed to the local garda station. No damage had occurred at the childcare facility. A co-accused had been before the court and in that instance the case had been adjourned for the preparation of a probation report.

Sgt McCarthy said Mr Murphy had 29 previous convictions, including seven in relation to drugs, eleven under the Road Traffic Act and two in relation to criminal damage.

Defending solicitor Elizabeth McKeever said her client was currently serving an 18-month prison sentence in relation to a robbery charge and was due for release in November 2024.

He had no memory of going to the front door of the house in Tullaskeagh in the early hours of the morning due to his level of intoxication on the date.

In relation to the incursion on to the grounds of the childcare facility at Corville, her client was found by gardai just sitting there with another individual.

He was very familiar to the court and had come from a background of tragedy as a child which had impacted on him later in life.

A father of a young child, he was a bright young man and was doing very well in prison where he intended to sit his Leaving Certificate next year. He had been in custody since March 21 this year.

Judge MacGrath said she considered the offences committed by Mr Murphy to be on the lower scale.

She noted that he was making efforts to deal with his addiction and that he was a highly intelligent young man that had previously secured a place in an educational establishment because of his high level of intelligence.

She told Mr Murphy that he could turn his life around if he could pull himself out of his addiction and make full use of the educational services available to him in prison.

For the incident at the house in Tullaskeagh, she imposed a three-month prison sentence, to run concurrent with the sentence he is already serving.

The charge in relation to trespass at the childcare facility in Corville was taken into account.
TWO Offaly men, Jack Corboy from Birr and Louis Hofmeyr from Ferbane are among 11 apprentices who graduated from the first cohort of the QQI Level 6 Arboriculture Apprenticeship Programme. Eanna Ni Lamhna, biologist, environmentalist, broadcaster and author, presented the apprentices with their certificates on the day.

The arboriculture apprenticeship was developed by employers from the industry working in partnership with Galway and Roscommon Education and Training Board.

It is a two-year programme which includes on-site training in Petersburg Outdoor Education Centre, Clonbur, Galway.

The arboriculture apprenticeship programme, managed by Galway and Roscommon Education and Training Board is the first formal qualification in the arboriculture industry in Ireland that offers all eleven NPTC (National Proficiency Tests Council) certificates of competence required to practice as an arborist.

Louis Hofmeyr

An arborist studies the biomechanics of trees; growth, cultivation, reactions to pruning, diseases and all of the practical aspects of tree management. Along with maintaining and caring for trees by tree pruning, removal, planting and emergency tree care, an arborist provides many other services such as insect control, fertilization, cabling, aeration, and lightning protection.

Speaking at the graduation ceremony, Jeremy Ryan, Coordinator of the National Arboriculture Apprenticeship Programme, said We want to extend our congratulations to all eleven apprentices who have graduated from the first class of the arboriculture apprenticeship. We are proud to be the National Lead Coordinator for this apprenticeship and to be able to welcome students to the beautiful surroundings of Petersburg Outdoor Education Centre in Galway.

The apprenticeship course is hugely important as it is the first national qualification put in place for the arboriculture industry. Apprentices get the unique opportunity to earn while you learn through on-the-job experience blended with their onsite training in Petersburg. This is an international qualification which will allow graduates to travel around the world using the skills and knowledge they have gained.

The apprenticeship is suitable for both new and existing employees who are hoping to upskill. Its great to see apprentices coming from a large spread across the country including Cork, Clare, Fermanagh and Tipperary. Our next intake is August 2023 and we encourage anyone who has an interest in working in the outdoors and the environment to get in touch. Were looking forward to seeing the class of 2023 go out into the workforce and make their mark on the arboriculture industry in Ireland.

The arboriculture apprenticeship programme graduation was held on Wednesday, 31st May at Petersburg Outdoor Education Centre, Clonbur, County Galway.
Aditya Thackeray steps out of Mumbai: Here is why

Aaditya Thackeray's 4 Takeaways After NCP Split

India

oi-Prakash KL

Former Maharashtra minister Aaditya Thackeray on Sunday mocked the Shinde government calling the "double engine government in Maharashtra now has a third wheel" after NCP leader Ajit Pawar along with eight other MLAs joined the NDA.

He shared four key takeaways from the current development without "going into the depths of the dirty politics."

Check Out The 4 Key Points Shared by Aaditya Thackeray On Twitter:

1) The failed double-engine government in Maharashtra now has a third wheel.

Now it's over a year but the original Gaddaars dreaming desperately of a cabinet berth today, sat there watching 9 others take oath, but none could be ministers again!

2) The original Gaddaars backstabbed us on the pretext that NCP leaders and ministers from their districts didn't let them work. Today, the same ones from NCP blamed for being roadblocks, be it in Raigad or Nashik or other districts, were sworn in as Cabinet Ministers... those original Gaddaars complaining against them had to quietly welcome them!

3) 1 gaddaar in a tv byte today said that seniors in the BJP told them that they needed this NCP faction, so as to win 145 seats in Maharashtra... Proves that Mindhe is as incompetent as he ever was.

4) Most importantly we were blamed by the BJP and the Gaddaars for distancing from Hindutva and our ideologies because we allied politically with the INC and NCP. What has the Mindhe gang and BJP distanced itself from today?

Especially when their immoral and illegal alliance needed no legislative numbers to prove majority!

It's clear from today's politics that the fight is going to be selfish vs principled.

Those who have gone, have only gone for selfish reasons, and we will fight for selfless and principled politics!
Setback For Devendra Fadnavis, Ajit Pawar Likely To Get Finance Portfolio

NCP Splits, Ajit Pawar Takes Oath As Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister

India

oi-Deepika S

Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) leader Ajit Pawar joined the Maharashtra government as the deputy chief minister on Sunday. Backed by 29 leaders, Pawar will share the Deputy Chief Minister post with BJP's Devendra Fadnavis.

The move comes days after Ajit Pawar expressed his desire to step down as Leader of Opposition in the Maharashtra Assembly.

Out of the total 53 NCP MLAs in the state, 40 are reportedly with Ajit Pawar, who is the leader of opposition in the state Assembly.

A total of nine NCP leaders including Chhagan Bhujbal, Hasan Mushrif, Dhananjay Munde, Dilip Walse Patil, Dharmarao Baba Atram, Aditi Tatkare, Anil Patil and Sanjay Bansode took oath as ministers.

Earlier in the day, Pawar called an urgent meeting of NCP leaders, amid rumours that he had met BJP senior Amit Shah earlier this week.

However, NCP president Sharad Pawar, who was in Pune, said he was unaware of the development, but added that Ajit Pawar, as leader of opposition (LoP) in the Maharashtra assembly, can call a meeting of legislators, news agency PTI reported.

"I do not know exactly why this meeting has been called but being the leader of the Opposition, Ajit Pawar has the right to call a meeting of MLAs. He does that regularly. I don't have much detail about this meeting," Sharad Pawar told reporters.

Notably, NCP chief Sharad Pawar has entrusted his daughter and Member of Parliament, Supriya Sule, with the responsibility of Maharashtra by appointing her as a working president. Additionally, Praful Patel has been appointed as another working president to oversee affairs in other states.

An attempt made in the past

In one of the most dramatic incidents in Maharashtra politics, Ajit Pawar went missing only to reappear alongside BJP leader Devendra Fadnavis at Raj Bhavan in 2019. In a hastily organised ceremony, Ajit took oath as Deputy CM with Fadnavis as the Chief Minister. However, the government fell within days as it could not muster enough numbers to attain majority.
What Happened With Daughters Can Never Be Forgiven: PM Modi On Manipur Parade Incident

If PM Modi Is Angry About Manipur, He Must Dismiss The CM: Mallikarjun Kharge

Amid Reshuffle Buzz, PM Modi To Chair Meeting Of Council Of Ministers On Monday

India

oi-Prakash KL

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will chair a meeting of the Union Council of Ministers on Monday amid a heightened buzz about the likelihood of a Cabinet reshuffle following a series of meetings of the ruling BJP's top brass.

The Monday meeting is expected to be held at the newly built convention centre at Pragati Maidan here, which will host the G20 summit in September.

The political upheaval in Maharashtra on Sunday as NCP leader Ajit Pawar joined the BJP-Shiv Sena government along with several of his party legislators and a number of closed-door meetings involving the BJP's brain trust, including Home Minister Amit Shah and party president J P Nadda, have strengthened the view that a Cabinet reshuffle is on the cards.

Senior NCP MP and former Union minister Praful Patel, who ditched his longtime mentor Sharad Pawar to join hands with his nephew, is being seen as a probable contender among the likely new ministers in the central government.

With Ajit Pawar taking oath as deputy chief minister in Maharashtra, there is also speculation about Devendra Fadnavis, also a deputy chief minister and the key BJP leader in the state, being brought into the central government.

BJP sources have been indicating that allies will be given representation in the Cabinet whenever Modi decides to go in for a rejig in his Council of Ministers.

The fact that the period before Parliament's Monsoon Session, which begins on July 20, could be the last window for such an exercise has added to the reshuffle buzz.

The BJP's organisation, including in some states, may also see some changes as its top brass makes its choices for key positions with the campaign for the 2024 Lok Sabha polls intensifying, sources said.

PM Modi held a meeting with Mr Shah and Mr Nadda on June 28. This came after closed-door meetings involving Shah and Nadda, among others, to take stock of organisational and political affairs.

Any Cabinet rejigs will factor in the upcoming assembly polls as well.

The BJP has been making hectic preparations for several state polls scheduled this year, with the Congress showing some bounce following its big win in Karnataka.

Elections are due in Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, Telangana and Mizoram later this year, and the Congress will be the BJP's main challenger in the first three states.

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Story first published: Sunday, July 2, 2023, 23:04 [IST]
Cong Won't Join Any Opposition Bloc Having BRS: Rahul In Telangana

India

oi-Prakash KL

Launching a scathing attack on Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrashekar Rao, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Sunday said his remote control was with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and described the state's ruling party as "BJP's B-Team" and its new nomenclature, BRS, as 'BJP Rishtedar Samithi'.

Gandhi alleged that the corruption charges against Rao and his party's leaders have made them subservient to the BJP, and asserted that he told all other opposition leaders that the Congress would not join any bloc where the BRS (Bharat Rashtra Samithi) was involved. Addressing a public meeting here, he sounded the poll bugle for the Congress for the upcoming assembly polls in the state and promised Rs 4,000 per month as pension for senior citizens and widows, and land for tribals. "This is another step to help the poor and our tribal brothers will be given back their land," the former Congress chief said.

He said there are many people who have left the Congress but the party's doors are always open for those who believe in the Congress' ideology. Gandhi also cited Delhi's alleged 'liquor scam' to accuse Chief Minister K Chandrashekar Rao, popularly known as KCR, of being under the "control" of Prime Minister Modi. Some Telangana leaders have also allegedly come under the scanner in the Delhi liquor scam case, besides leaders of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), which is in power in the national capital.

"Telangana and its youth should understand one thing that KCR is under the control of Prime Minister Modi because of his corruption activities. The corruption he did in the liquor scam, is known to all agencies," Gandhi said. "That's why I said that TRS is BJP's B-Team and they have accepted that by changing their name to BRS, which means BJP Rishtedar Samithi," he added. The Telangana Rashtra Samithi (TRS) is now known as the BRS. The Enforcement Directorate had arrested Arun Ramchandra Pillai, an alleged frontman for the liquor cartel 'South Group', in a money laundering case related to the Delhi excise policy case.

He is said to be a close aide of BRS MLC and Chief Minister Rao's daughter K Kavitha. Kavitha has also been questioned in the case related to the now-scrapped Delhi excise policy for 2020-21. Congress leader Gandhi alleged that the corruption charges against Rao and his party's leaders have made them subservient to the BJP, and that is why the prime minister has hold over him.

"The corruption done in the liquor scam is all known to the agencies. That is why I say TRS is BJP's B-team and that is why it has now changed its name to 'BJP Rishtedar Samithi, and we will defeat them here (Telangana)," he asserted. Gandhi said when the Congress raised the farmers' bill issue in Parliament, the TRS supported the BJP. "Whatever Modi wants, Rao does for him. Because Modi has got remote control of KCR," he said. Referring to the recent Karnataka assembly elections, Gandhi said, "A few months ago, we fought against a corrupt and anti-poor government in Karnataka and we defeated it." "We defeated the BJP in Karnataka where they were supported by their billionaire friends and something similar is going to happen in Telangana.

On one side, there is the chief minister, his family and his 10-15 billionaire friends, and the other side has all the poor, dalits, tribals, minorities, small shopkeepers, farmers and small workers, who will all together repeat what has happened in Karnataka," he said. Something similar is going to happen in the state and "like we defeated the BJP in Karnataka, we will defeat BJP's B-team in Telangana", Gandhi said. On the recent attempts to unite the opposition against the BJP for the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, Gandhi said, "We told other opposition leaders if TRS attends the meeting, Congress will not attend it, Congress can't share stage with TRS."

"We told other opposition parties that the Congress will not join any bloc where the BRS is involved. We can't share stage with the BRS," he said. Over a dozen opposition parties recently met in Patna, Bihar, to put up a united front against the BJP and will be meeting again in Bengaluru soon. The BRS and a few other non-BJP parties are not part of this grouping.

"Chief Minister KCR thinks he is a king and Telangana is his kingdom. The land that was given by Indira amma (former prime minister Indira Gandhi) to the poor, dalits, tribals is being taken away by the TRS," Gandhi said. "I want to tell you that this land doesn't belong to the chief minister, but belongs to you and it is your right. The Congress will hand over this land to you as it belongs to you," he said drawing a thunderous applause from the massive crowd at the rally. Noting that Telangana was a dream of the poor, farmers, labourers and marginalised, he said that dream stands shattered in the last nine years of rule of the TRS.

Attacking the BJP, Gandhi said earlier it was said that there was a three-way fight between the TRS , the Congress and the BJP in Telangana. "But the BJP does not exist at all in Telangana. Their all four tyres have got punctured. Now, it is a fight between Congress and the B-Team of BJP," he said. Gandhi also described Congress workers as 'babbar sher' (lions) and "backbone" of the party. "With your support, we can defeat the BRS like we did in Karnataka," he told party workers. "We got a huge support from here (Telangana) during the Bharat Jodo Yatra and I want to thank you all for that," he said.

"During the yatra, we talked about uniting the country. On one hand, we follow an ideology to unite the country and there is another side that is trying to break the country," the Congress leader said. "The entire country supported the yatra and said they wouldn't allow hatred in this country. Khammam has always supported the Congress as it believes in our ideology. I welcome the leaders who have decided to join the Congress today. But most importantly, I want to thank the workers of the party, who are like our lions (babbar sher)," he said.

The BRS "attacked you all but none of you were scared", Gandhi told the party workers. "I also want to tell one thing, there are many people who have left the Congress party. Our doors are always open for everyone. Whoever believes in the Congress ideology, our doors are always open for them. But whoever believes in the ideologies of the BJP and the TRS, we do not have anything to do with those people," he said as a number of leaders, including from the BRS, joined his party.

Gandhi, however, did not say anything about the developments in Maharashtra where a big chunk of the Sharad Pawar-led NCP on Sunday switched sides, a development being seen as a major jolt to the opposition bloc. The public meeting 'Telangana Jan Garjana Sabha' was attended by AICC's Telangana in-charge Manikrao Thakre, state party president Revanth Reddy, Congress Legislature Party leader Bhatti Vikramarka, party leaders Jeevan Reddy, Madhu Goud Yakshi, Renuka Chaudhary and N Uttam Kumar Reddy, among others.

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Story first published: Sunday, July 2, 2023, 22:42 [IST]
Qingdao, China--(Newsfile Corp. - July 2, 2023) - On June 30th Beijing time, Qilu Pharmaceutical Group, located in Shandong Province, China, will export more than 45000 cisplatin injections produced to the United States. This is the second batch of drugs supplied by this well-known Chinese pharmaceutical company to the United States, following the first batch of 18000 cisplatin injections exported to the United States.





Chinese company Qilu Pharmaceutical is supplying the anti-cancer drug cisplatin injection to the United States again



To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/8247/172145_d37568b1041379e9_001full.jpg

In March of this year, Qilu Pharmaceutical Group received an urgent email from the FDA inquiring about the availability of the anticancer drug cisplatin injection due to a shortage in the US market. Qilu Pharmaceutical Group responded quickly and had multiple rounds of communication and negotiations with the FDA. The product was declared and successfully approved in just one and a half months. On May 31st Beijing time, Qilu Pharmaceutical Group shipped 18000 bottles of cisplatin injection to the United States without affecting domestic product supply.

The FDA temporarily licensed the import of Qilu Pharmaceutical's cisplatin injection after only 1.5 months, mainly focusing on Qilu Pharmaceutical Group's comprehensive quality management system. As early as the 1990s, this company established a joint venture with a well-known Italian pharmaceutical company in Jinan. The pharmaceutical concept was the first to align with international standards, establishing a globally unified quality management and control system that meets different needs according to the requirements of different countries and regions, and achieving high-quality products throughout the production process, achieving full lifecycle management of products. Moreover, this enterprise is at the forefront of automation, intelligence, and digitization, with the world's highest quality and high-end production and testing equipment, ensuring that every product has world-class quality.

In addition, the FDA's rapid licensing of Qilu Pharmaceutical's cisplatin injection for export to the United States is related to the company's years of deep cultivation in the world's largest pharmaceutical market - the United States market. As early as 2016, Qilu Pharmaceutical Group's products entered the US market. On May 3, Beijing time, their first-line targeted specific drug Gefitinib tablets for the treatment of non-small cell lung cancer also successfully went on sale in the United States market. With the shipment of cisplatin injection to the United States, this is already the 24th formulation product of Qilu Pharmaceutical Group to achieve commercial sales in the United States.

Sun Ke

wangzhan@qilu-pharma.com

https://www.qilu-pharma.com/

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/172145
How Opposition Parties React To NCP Split?

India

oi-Prakash KL

Opposition parties on Sunday came down heavily on the BJP after NCP leader Ajit Pawar and eight others were inducted into the Eknath Shinde-led Maharashtra government.

The parties attacked the BJP saying that the saffron party can no longer target opposition parties on corruption charges as some of the leaders who joined the NDA are being probed on various cases by central agencies.

What Opposition Parties Said?

NCP Chief Sharad Pawar said he was not worried about what happened and will work to strengthen the party again.

"This is not 'googly', it is a robbery. It is not a small thing," he said. "Some of my colleagues have taken a different stand. I had called a meeting of all the leaders on July 6, where some important issue was to be discussed and some changes were to be made within the party but before that meeting, some of the leaders have taken a different stand."

The NCP supremo claimed that in the next two-three days, they will sit with Congress and Uddhav Thackeray to access the situation. "Our main strength is the common people, they have elected us". Apparently referring to Ajit Pawar who faced accusations related to the alleged irrigation scam, Pawar took a dig at BJP and Prime Minister Narendra Modi saying, "it is clear that all the charges have been cleared".

"Two days ago the PM had said about NCP... He had said two things in his statement that NCP is a finished party. He mentioned irrigation complaint and allegations of corruption. I am happy that some of my colleagues have taken oath. From this (joining the NDA government) it is clear that all the charges have been cleared. I am thankful to him," Pawar said. Sharad Pawar said he had dealt with splits earlier and rejuvenated the party. "This is not a new thing. The party I was leading in 1980 had 58 MLAs, later all left and only 6 MLAs left, but I strengthened the numbers and those who left me lost in their constituencies," he added.

Congress general secretary Jairam Ramesh said: Clearly the BJP's washing machine has resumed its operations. A number of new entrants into the BJP-led alliance in Maharashtra today had been facing serious corruption charges with ED, CBI and Income Tax authorities after them. Now they have all got a clean chit." The Congress will intensify its efforts to free Maharashtra from the clutches of the BJP, Ramesh added.

After inducting "corrupt men" as ministers, the BJP and Prime Minister Narendra Modi cannot talk about fighting corruption, senior TMC leader Babul Supriyo, who was earlier a minister in the Modi government and had switched from the BJP, said.

"After the opposition parties' meeting in Patna, they (BJP) are afraid, and that's why they want to break opposition parties," said DMK leader TKS Elangovan.

Congress leader Rashid Alvi said, "The BJP and PM Modi have violated the Constitution. It (Ajit Pawar joining the Maharashtra government) is the biggest joke on democracy. Rajiv Gandhi brought anti-defection law while Atal Bihari Vajpayee increased the number of MLAs (to change the party) to 2/3rd, so this is an insult to Vajpayee as well."

Calling the BJP "hypocrite", Supriyo, a minister in the Mamata Banerjee government in West Bengal, said tainted leaders under the scanner of ED for corruption have been put into a "washing machine" manufactured by the BJP to remove their stains and blemishes.

Shiv Sena (UBT) Rajya Sabha leader Priyanka Chaturvedi tweeted, "Principles be damned, BJP should be the last party in the country talking about ideological alliances. They are just political opportunists wanting power at any cost. With the latest development in Maharashtra, those MLAs who were corrupt and were jailed are now being sworn in as ministers!"

Samajwadi Party Chief Akhilesh Yadav claimed that Maharashtra has emerged as a "bigger laboratory" for the BJP after Madhya Pradesh and the saffron party will do other "experiments" in the run-up to 2024 general elections to stay in power "BJP does this from time to time, first they did this in Madhya Pradesh, and then in Maharashtra, but people are watching this," Yadav told reporters in Lucknow.

In a swipe, Rajya Sabha MP Kapil Sibal tweeted, "I guess this is the mother of democracy that Modiji was talking about in his address to the US Congress!" "BJP doesn't believe in people's power, they only believe in politics of defections (jod-tod ki rajniti) and this time they will get a big shock," JD (U) president Rajiv Ranjan Singh alias Lalan Singh said.

The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) slammed Prime Minister Narendra Modi by calling him the "biggest patron of corruption". Reacting to the development, AAP national spokesperson Sanjay Singh hit out at the prime minister on Twitter. "Narendra Modi is the biggest patron of corruption in the country," the Rajya Sabha MP said in a tweet in Hindi.

AAP leader Atishi said that BJP has declared openly now that all the corrupt should come to its fold and get "cleaned off their sins in its washing machine".

RJD leader Mritunjay Tiwari also said the BJP has engineered the defection to save its government in Maharashtra. PDP chief Mehbooba Mufti said no words are enough to condemn the manner in which the BJP has repeatedly undermined the popular mandate in Maharashtra.

"Not only is democracy being butchered but they are using the national anthem to provide cover for such disgraceful actions. On one hand, BJP is arresting political opponents on trumped-up corruption charges while they themselves are on an MLA purchasing spree. Hard-earned public money is being misused to quench BJP's thirst for power," she alleged.

Congress General Secretary said that BJP's dirty tricks department is working on overdrive in Maharashtra. "This is not a legitimately elected government, but an ED-facilitated power grab. The Maharashtra government is a product of corruption and sin. The people have very well identified the traitors, corrupt and compromised leaders of Maharashtra and each of them will be taught the lessons of their lifetime in the next elections. On June 29, PM Modi had spoken about corruption. It appears he switched on the washing machine and these leaders are now squeaky clean after this oath taking ceremony."

He further stated that Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge and senior leader Rahul Gandhi have spoken to NCP chief Sharad Pawar and extended their support to him.
Maharashtra: Among 9 NCP MLAs, 2 Sharad Pawar Loyalists Too Join NDA

India

oi-Prakash KL

By Pti

Dilip Walse Patil and Chhagan Bhujbal joining the Eknath Shinde government on Sunday is being seen as a shocker in Nationalist Congress Party circles as the two are considered the staunchest supporters of Sharad Pawar.

Ajit Pawar was earlier sworn in as deputy chief minister in the Eknath Shinde government, while eight others, including Walse Patil and Bhujbal, were made ministers, the developments coming after a vertical split in the NCP.

Bhujbal belongs to the Mali community and was previously a firebrand Shiv Sena leader before leaving it in 1991 to join the Congress. In 1999, when Pawar split from the Congress to form the NCP, Bhujbal, who was leader of opposition in the Maharashtra Legislative Council at the time, followed the Maratha strongman.

The MLA from Yeola in Nashik has been deputy chief minister of the state earlier and was also the first NCP state unit chief in 1999. When Ajit Pawar recently said he wanted a role in the party organisation and sought to step down as leader of opposition in the Assembly, Bhujbal threw his hat in the ring and batted for a state unit chief from the OBC category, of which he is a prominent leader.

Bhujbal was grilled by the Central Bureau of Investigation during the probe into the multi-crore Telgi stamp paper scam, while he was in jail for two years in a PMLA case before getting bail in 2018.

Walse Patil started his political career as the personal assistant (PA) of 83-year-old Sharad Pawar and is considered his closest aide. He has served as speaker of the assembly, held the energy, excise and home portfolios and is a seven-time MLA from Ambegaon constituency.

Hasan Mushrif, who represent Kagal Assembly seat in Kolhapur district, is facing an Enforcement Directorate probe into corruption allegations and premises connected to him have also been searched by the Central agency earlier.

Dhananjay Munde, who represents Parli Assembly seat in Beed district, is nephew of late BJP stalwart Gopinath Munde and a close aide of Ajit Pawar, while Anil Patil is MLA from Amalner and was the NCP whip in the Assembly. Aditi Tatkare represents Shrivardhan in Raigad district and is the daughter of Sunil Tatkare, NCP MP from Raigad, and close aide of Ajit Pawar.

Incidentally, Aditi Tatkare had the maximum number of portfolios in the Maha Vikas Aghadi government under Uddhav Thackeray, which fell in June last year. She also becomes the first woman minister in the Eknath Shinde government, which completed its first anniversary on June 30.

Sanjay Bandsode is MLA from Udgir in Latur district, while Dharmarao Baba Atram represents Aheri constituency.
Manipur Violence: Kuki Groups Lift 2-Month Blockade On NH-2

India

pti-PTI

The United Peoples' Front (UPF) and Kuki National Organisation (KNO), two umbrella Kuki organisations, have withdrawn roadblocks in Manipur's Kangpokpi district on National Highway 2.

In a joint statement, the two organisations, which represent among others former militant groups that have signed suspension of operations pacts with the government, said the blockade on the highway has been lifted with immediate effect, following an appeal by Union Home Minister Amit Shah.

The organisations said the home minister had shown "deep concern to restore peace and harmony" in the state. However, Kuki civil society group Committee on Tribal Unity (COTU), which had announced a roadblock on NH-2 two months ago, has not officially withdrawn the agitation yet. Manipur has two national highways -- NH-2 (Imphal-Dimapur) and NH-37 (Imphal-Jiribam).

The NH-2 has been blocked by Kuki organisations since the violence broke out in Manipur on May 3, and was temporarily opened following Shah's visit in late May. The decision to lift the blockade comes following a recent meeting of the UPF, KNO and other Kuki groups with Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma in Guwahati, sources close to the development said.

"The decision was taken after wide-ranging consultations with civil society organisations, village chiefs and women leaders on several occasions," the joint statement said. More than 100 people have so far lost their lives in ethnic violence between Meitei and Kuki communities in Manipur.

Meiteis account for about 53 per cent of Manipur's population and live mostly in the Imphal Valley. Tribals -- Nagas and Kukis -- constitute another 40 per cent of the population and reside in the hill districts.

"The Kuki Zo organisations had earlier met the home minister and appealed to him to provide security in the vulnerable villages in the bordering and foothill areas. We appreciate that central forces have been deployed in most of these areas as assured, and the process is in progress," UPF and KNO said.

Once the deployment of central forces is complete in all vulnerable areas, the Kuki groups will withdraw their "volunteers" from those places to help restore peace and tranquility, the statement said. "We also take this opportunity to appeal to all peace-loving organisations and citizens in the state of Manipur to reciprocate our gesture and take steps towards peace and communal harmony in the state," it added.
NCP Appoints Jitendra Awhad As LoP In Maha Assembly

India

pti-PTI

The Nationalist Congress Party appointed Jitendra Awhad as Leader of Opposition in the Maharashtra Assembly after incumbent LoP Ajit Pawar joined the Eknath Shinde government as deputy chief minister on Sunday.

The development comes amid a close aide of Pawar saying 36 out of 53 NCP MLAs have extended support to the new deputy CM and the numbers could go to 46 in a few days time.

Awhad, MLA from Mumbra-Kalwa in neighbouring Thane district, said NCP state unit president Jayant Patil had appointed him chief whip of the party and LoP in the Assembly. "All the MLAs will have to abide my whip," he asserted in an apparent reference to defection and disqualification angles that are bound to come up in connection with Sunday's developments brought about by a vertical split in the NCP.

Queried on Enforcement Directorate and Central Bureau of Investigation probes against some NCP leaders and its role in them switching sides, Awhad said, "I don't see any other reason behind these leaders deciding to join the state government. There was no need to do such a thing. Those leaders could have sat aside."

"These leaders should not forget the party made them ministers in the past 25 years. Now, they are deserting their leader (83-year-old Sharad Pawar) in his twilight years," Awhad said. Lok Sabha MPs Sunil Tatkare and Amol Kolhe and Rajya Sabha member Praful Patel attended Sunday's swearing-in ceremony.
If Sanjay Raut is saying...: Sharad Pawar on NCP CM

Eknath Shinde Will Be Replaced As Maharashtra CM Soon; 16 MLAs will be disqualified: Raut

This Circus Won't Last Long: Sanjay Raut Slams Ajit Pawar For Jumping Ship

India

oi-Deepika S

In a shocking turn of events in Maharashtra, NCP leader Ajit Pawar took oath as the deputy chief minister of Maharashtra - third time since 2019.

Criticising Ajit Pawar's move, senior Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut said this 'game' will not be tolerated for long.

Raut said some people have taken up the task of cleaning up Maharashtra politics, 'let them have their way'.

"I just had a talk with Mr. Sharad Pawar. He said 'I am strong. We have the support of the people. We will rebuild everything again with Uddhav Thackeray'. Yes, people will not tolerate this gam for long," Raut tweeted in Marathi.

"Some people seem to be determined to completely spoil Maharashtra's politics. Let them proceed on their chosen path," said Raut, in an apparent dig at Ajit Pawar, CM Shinde and the Bharatiya Janata Party.

Out of the total 53 NCP MLAs in the state, 30 are apparently with Ajit Pawar, who is the leader of Opposition in the state Assembly. Key NCP leaders Dilip Walse Patil, Hasan Mushrif, Chhagan Bhujbal took oath as Maharashtra ministers along with Ajit Pawar today.

Ajit Pawar met some party leaders and MLAs at his official residence 'Devgiri' in Mumbai earlier in the day.
France Violence: Rioters Ram Car Into Mayor's House In Paris, Wife And Child Injured

International

oi-Deepika S

As violence continuous unabated in France, rioters rammed a car into the home of the mayor of a town south of Paris, injuring his wife and one of his children, mayor Vincent Jeanbrun said on Sunday.

The mayor L'Hay-les-Roses town tweeted that protesters rammed a car into his home before setting a fire while his family slept.

"Last night a milestone was reached in horror and disgrace," the mayor tweeted.

The incident occured on the fifth night of chaos across France, where rioters have set cars on fire, attacked infrastructure, and clashed with security forces following the death of a 17-year-old boy.

The fast-spreading crisis is posing a new challenge to President Emmanuel Macron's leadership and exposing deep-seated discontent in low-income neighborhoods over discrimination and lack of opportunity.

The 17-year-old whose death Tuesday spawned the anger, identified by his first name Nahel, was laid to rest Saturday in a Muslim ceremony in his hometown of Nanterre, a Paris suburb where emotion over his loss remains raw.

As night fell over the French capital, a small crowd gathered on the Champs-Elysees for a protest over Nahel's death and police violence but met hundreds of officers with batons and shields guarding the iconic avenue and its Cartier and Dior boutiques.

In a less-chic neighborhood of northern Paris, protesters set off volleys of firecrackers and lit barricades on fire as police shot back with tear gas and stun grenades. A burning car hit the home of the mayor of the Paris suburb of l'Hay-les-Roses overnight.

Several schools, police stations, town halls and stores have been targeted by fires or vandalism in recent days but such a personal attack on a mayor's home is unusual. Skirmishes erupted in the Mediterranean city of Marseille but appeared less intense than the night before, according to the Interior Ministry.

A beefed-up police contingent arrested 55 people there. Nationwide arrests were somewhat lower than the night before, which Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin attributed to "the resolute action of security forces." Some 2,800 people have been detained overall since Nahel's death on Tuesday. T

The heavy police deployment has been welcomed by some frightened residents of targeted neighbourhoods and shopowners whose stores have been ransacked - but it has further frustrated those who see police behavior as the core of France's current crisis.
Russia Launches First Drone Strike On Kyiv In 12 Days; All Shot Down

International

oi-Prakash KL

After a relative lull, Russia launched a drone attack early Sunday on Ukraine's capital, Kyiv, officials said. It was the first such attack of the war in 12 days. All of the Iranian-made Shahed exploding drones were detected and shot down, according to Serhii Popko, the head of the Kyiv city administration. In addition to the city itself, the surrounding Kyiv region was targeted.

Kyiv regional Gov. Ruslan Kravchenko reported that one person was wounded by falling debris from a destroyed drone. Officials in the Ukrainian capital didn't provide an exact number of drones that attacked the city. But Ukraine's air force said that across the country, eight Shaheds and three Kalibr cruise missiles were launched by the Russians.

Further south, a 13-year-old boy was wounded in overnight shelling of Ukraine's partially occupied southern Kherson province, said Oleksandr Tolokonnikov, spokesman for the Ukrainian administration of the province. The child was wounded when the Russian army shelled the village of Mylove on the banks of the Dnieper River in the Beryslav district, Tolokonnikov said.

"The child was hospitalised, there is no threat to his life," Tolokonnikov added," he said on state TV. Shelling of Kherson province continued Sunday morning, wounding four people in the regional capital, also called Kherson. The regional prosecutor's office said that a residential area of the city was targeted by Russian troops operating in the Russia-occupied part of the Kherson province.

" "At least four citizens were wounded, two of them due to a targeted strike on a high-rise building," the office wrote on Telegram. Meanwhile, Ukraine's military reported that the most intense fighting continued in Ukraine's industrial east, with attacks focused around Bakhmut, Marinka and Lyman in the country's Donetsk province, where 46 combat clashes took place. Ukrainian forces were advancing amid a "massive offensive" on the southern and northern flanks of the destroyed city of Bakhmut, Ukraine's Eastern Group of Forces spokesman Serhii Cherevaty told Ukrainian state television.

But he didn't mention how much progress they made. The details, he said, would be disclosed once Ukrainian forces had analysed the situation and consolidated their positions. In its regular update Sunday morning, the General Staff said that over the previous 24 hours, Russia had carried out 27 airstrikes, one missile strike and around 80 attacks from multiple rocket launchers, targeting regions in the north, northeast, east and south of the country. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy visited the Black Sea port city of Odesa on Sunday - the day the country honors its navy - to hear a report from the navy commander, discuss prospects for the development of a naval drone and missile program, as well as present awards to service members.

In Russia, local officials reported that air defense systems shot down a drone over the Belgorod region, which borders Ukraine, while the neighbouring Kursk region faced shelling attacks. No casualties or damage were reported. Following the drama of Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin's rebellion last week, Russian authorities remained defiant. Vyacheslav Volodin, speaker of Russia's lower house of parliament, the State Duma, said Sunday that Russian President Vladimir Putin came out of this situation "having strengthened his position even more both in the country and in the world."

Russian society, he said, "having passed this test, has shown its maturity." According to Volodin, there was "not a single example of someone supporting the rebellion." But Gen. Sergei Surovikin, the deputy commander of the Russian group of forces fighting in Ukraine, was believed to have been detained days after the mutiny. It's not clear whether Surovikin, who has longtime links to Prigozhin, faces any charges or where he is being held, reflecting the opaque world of the Kremlin's politics and uncertainty after the revolt.

Writing on Telegram, Volodin said that the Russian president "did everything to prevent bloodshed and confusion," including explaining to Wagner fighters "the real state of affairs." "(Putin) suggested that those who want to defend Russia continue their service with weapons in their hands. As far as I know, many of them agreed to this," Volodin said.

In addition, the speaker of the State Duma said that he had analyzed the "challenges" Russia faced in the past, affirming that if "someone like Putin" had been leading the country in 1917 and 1991, there wouldn't have been a revolution in Russia, and the USSR wouldn't have collapsed. But independent observers and analysts say that Putin may come out politically weakened after first announcing that Wagner would face harsh repercussions, only to later say that the group's forces wouldn't face prosecution. Prigozhin was also allowed to leave Russia for Belarus.

Polish Interior Minister Mariusz Kaminski said Sunday that Poland would send 500 police officers to join 5,000 border guards and 2,000 soldiers already on the country's border with Belarus. It follows an announcement earlier this week that Poland would strengthen defences on its eastern border after the relocation of Wagner fighters to Belarus.

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Story first published: Sunday, July 2, 2023, 23:21 [IST]
Thailand shooting: 34 killed in a shooting and knife attack at child care center, officials say

Thailand Takes Back Elephant From Sri Lanka Over Abuse Claim

International

dwnews-DW News

A Thai elephant returned to his home country on Sunday, after being away in Sri Lanka for over two decades. Activists claim the animal had suffered mistreatment.

The 29-year-old Muthu Raja, also known as Sak Surin, spent 22 years abroad. Until last year, the 4-ton elephant was kept at a Buddhist temple in Sri Lanka, where he is believed to have suffered torture and neglect.

What happened to the elephant?

The elephant was rescued from the temple following a campaign by the Rally for Animal Rights and Environment (RARE) group. RARE has petitioned authorities to prosecute those who it blames for his condition.

The animal was in pain and covered in abscesses when it was extracted from the temple to a zoo at the Sri Lankan capital, according to the Zoo's chief veterinarian.

Animal rights groups say Muthu Raja was forced to work with a logging crew and that his handler inflicted some of the wounds.

The elephant is now due to undergo hydrotherapy in Thailand for further treatment.

RARE organized a Buddhist blessing on Friday to bid the animal farewell.

Sri Lankan PM apologizes to Thai king

The elephant's $700,000-journey (roughly 641,000) has strained ties between Thailand and Sri Lanka. Thai authorities revealed the cost of the journey, without clarifying who would pay for it.

Sri Lanka-based wildlife environmentalist Jagath Gunawardana said that when a gift is taken back, it is bound to have a negative effect on both countries' ties.

Sri Lanka considers elephants sacred and protects them by law. However, that does not eliminate the possibility of animals experiencing abuse, which also a common problem in Thailand.

Sri Lankan Prime Minister Dinesh Gunawardena told parliament last month that he had personally conveyed his country's regrets over the animal's condition to the Thai king.

Thailand has stopped sending its elephants abroad, and is currently checking the conditions of those already overseas, Thai Environment Minister Varawut Silpa-archa said.

rmt/dj (AFP, dpa)

Source: DW
The TV personalitys column in The Sun about Prince Harrys wife became the most complained-about article, generating over 25,000 complaints from members of the public.
Russia's invasion of Ukraine has prompted Sweden to abandon its longstanding military neutrality and knock on the doors of NATO seeking protection under its security umbrella.
Crookes Brothers (JSE:CKS) Full Year 2023 Results

Key Financial Results

Revenue: R615.7m (down 9.3% from FY 2022).

Net loss: R180.2m (down by 388% from R62.6m profit in FY 2022).

R11.80 loss per share (down from R4.10 profit in FY 2022).

All figures shown in the chart above are for the trailing 12 month (TTM) period

Crookes Brothers' share price is broadly unchanged from a week ago.

Risk Analysis

You should learn about the 3 warning signs we've spotted with Crookes Brothers (including 1 which is a bit concerning).

Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com.



This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned.

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Ukraine's foreign minister said his nation's armed forces are suffering from a lack of anti-aircraft weapons on the ground. Meanwhile, Austria is seeking to join European air defense system. DW has the latest.
London sent the Hawker Hurricanes to the Soviet Union to help them fight against Nazi Germany.
The Ukrainian president visits Odesa port to thank navy personnel for their work and meets wounded soldiers in hospitals. Meanwhile, Austria is seeking to join a European air defense system. DW has the latest.
The Security Council on Friday unanimously approved the complete withdrawal of UN peacekeeping forces in Mali, although it will take six months for the final blue helmets to depart.



Security Council members reiterated strong support for the full withdrawal of the decade-old UN Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization...
The sigh of relief in a swath of land stretching from China to Africas Atlantic coast was audible when Yevgeny Prigozhin, a Russian oligarch who heads the Wagner Group, a state-funded private military company, called off his mutiny against President Vladimir Putins military and security establishment.



So were the...
Eurasia Review 11 Jul 2023

Sometimes one wishes Winston Churchill had left behind an evergreen quote in regard of Russian diplomacy as well, similar to his..
Malta Decision Protects the Rights of Offshore Operators

Published June 30, 2023 by Lee R

The rights of offshore operators are gaining new life in Malta.

In Malta, an unorthodox law addressing offshore operator protections has been approved.

Impact

Lets take a closer look at the law and the ramifications for the iGaming industry overall.

The Bill

Maltese lawmakers have approved Bill 55, a bill designed to protect offshore operators based in Malta from foreign liability.

Protections

On the surface, this sounds like a move to protect Malta operators who attempt to serve other jurisdictions from being fined or penalised by the jurisdictions they try to serve.

Goal

The law is indeed a measure to protect said Malta-based foreign operators through the infrastructure of the Malta legal system.

Enforcement

Signed into law June 16, 2023 by Malta President George Vella, Gaming Amendment Act No. XXI of 2023 orders Malta courts to refuse to recognise or enforce foreign judgements against Malta-licensed operators active in the European market.

Exempt from Penalties

In other words, operators licensed in or by the Maltese authority will be exempt from enforcement of penalties they incur when attempting to serve other European jurisdictions. This is in effect a refusal by the jurisdiction of Malta to honor penalties imposed against companies they have licensed which try to serve other jurisdictions.

Malta Historical Position

Since Malta is one of the pioneers of iGaming, it has remained a hotbed for new provider and operator licenses.

Recent Precedent in iGaming

Many new operators from Malta have attempted to branch out into nearby European jurisdictions via offshore activity, a practice which has been reduced in direct proportion to the number of European nations legislating their own iGaming licensing systems.

Basis for Offshore Offerings

The offering of services to other countries by Malta-licensed companies practice accepted through what is known as the European single market--in keeping with the

Treaty of the Functioning of the European Union that provides for the free movement of services across Europe.

Basis for EU Penalties

EU enforcement against offshore operators serving jurisdictions they are not licensed in traces back to the EU Commissions 2017 decision to close infringement procedures and complaints in the gambling sector.

New Movement

A plethora of cases concentrated in Germany and Austria show that the rights of offshore operators to serve jurisdictions they are not licensed in is gathering momentum, with many operators penalised for serving other jurisdictions companies seeking out lawyers in Malta to protect their rights.

Outlook

The basis for protection of the rights of offshore operators has clearly gained traction in Malta, representing a reversal trend of acceptance of offshore offerings as violations in an industry which has become accustomed to penalising offshore operators in recent years.
The largest migrant boat disaster recently off the coast of Greece involved 750 persons wanting to get to Germany and elsewhere in Europe. Though this was the largest tragedy, similar voyages are happening almost daily with loss of life.

The US and EU sanctions prevent Syrians from a livelihood at home, and desperate people make deadly choices to feed their families. If sanctions were lifted, Syrians could find a job in the many reconstruction projects and new factories that could open if the sanctions were lifted, which currently prevent any reconstruction projects, or factories refurbishment or construction. The Syrian economy sits idle and Syrian workers are unemployed because of sanctions. Many feel their only hope is an illegal boat ride to Europe, which has a seemingly open-door policy that encourages human trafficking.

Germany has welcomed 560,000 Syrian refugees, and while many have become productive members of society, many others have remained uninterested in German integration, and a few have become criminals. In an effort to understand the problems surrounding the current Syrian economic migrants to Germany, Steven Sahiounie of MidEastDiscourse interviewed Gunnar Lindemann, a Member of the German Parliament who has been to Syria and has first-hand information, and has proposed a way to end the illegal migrant boats to Europe, and thus save lives.

Gunnar Lindemann is member of Parliament of the Federal state of Berlin from the party "Alternative for Germany".

#1. Steven Sahiounie (SS): Recently, in Essen there was a massive fight between Lebanese and Syrian refugees. In the German media, the Lebanese were said to be operating as a mafia involved with the illegal drug trade.

From your perspective, how are the German police handling the problem, and what is the German citizens' reaction to these crimes?

Gunnar Lindemann (GL): The problem is not the German police. The problem is German politics and the German government. This government is acting irresponsibly by allowing hundreds of thousands of people, mostly illegally, to enter Germany for decades. The problem with the Lebanese clans has also been known for a long time. The mistake is that criminal or violent migrants are almost never deported, even though they disobey German laws.

#2. SS: A ship carrying 750 illegal migrants to Europe recently sank with great loss of life, and it is an ongoing tragedy happening almost daily.

In your opinion, what can Germany and the European Union do to prevent this situation?

GL: Here, too, politics in Germany and Europe is to blame. All people rescued from the Mediterranean should not be allowed to go to Europe, but would have to be brought back to their starting point in Africa. If you did it like that for a few weeks, nobody would risk a voyage on an unfit ship anymore. And with that, no one would drown.

#3. SS: Syrian refugees number about 800,000 in Germany, and are the largest refugee community. Syrian Christians and Muslims both reject the LGBTQ lifestyle and do not want their school-aged children indoctrinated in an adult subject.

In your view, shouldn't parents have the right to choose what their child is taught in school about a sensitive topic?

GL: Yes, of course, parents should have more influence over school lessons on sensitive topics. Most German parents also reject this LGTB propaganda in German schools. From my point of view, this early sexualization in children has no place and should be banned.

#4. SS: The armed conflict in Syria is over. The last period of open conflict was in 2017, and today the cities of Aleppo, Damascus, Homs, and Latakia are all safe and calm. There is even a growing tourism industry as visitors return, including Syrians living in Germany who often return each summer for a beach vacation and family visits.

In your opinion, is it time to ask Syrians in Germany to return home, especially those who do not want to integrate into the society?

GL: I was in Damascus myself 2 years ago. The war in Syria is over. The Syrians in Germany should now return to their homeland, whereby the German government should certainly provide financial return assistance here. Diplomatic relations with Syria should also be resumed immediately and sanctions against Syria must be lifted. Relations between Germany and Syria must finally return to normal. Syria has great potential in economic development and of course in the tourism sector. Which is certainly interesting for German investors and business people.

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Article originally published in The PuLSE Institute

By Robert Weiner and Annie Cayer

Now that Juneteenth has just been celebrated, the nation still faces erasing black history in books and college courses, a threat to America's intellect.

Governor Ron DeSantis of Florida geared up for his presidential announcement and started a cultural fight with an influential organization of higher education- The College Board. When DeSantis rejected the course material in a pilot Advanced Placement African American class, outrage across the country sparked, and a new question was raised about what is American History.

The Florida Department of Education released a statement that the curriculum lacked education value and would be rejected. The Department Office of Articulation said it is "inexplicably contrary to Florida law and significantly lacks educational value." This reasoning highlights their effort to control how racism is taught in school.

In his state of Florida--but with repercussions nationally because of his presidential campaign--the governor plans to dramatically change the state's education system by eliminating "ideological conformity" and reducing the number of courses in diversity, paralleling his recent ban on the AP black history course.

His Stop WOKE Act, which has been temporarily blocked from enforcement by two federal courts, is attempting to restrict how schools and workplaces can address topics such as race, gender, and sexual identity. Similarly, on May 15, DeSantis signed a bill into law to defund programs that advance diversity. According to a release by his office, "The Governor signed Senate Bill (SB) 266 to prohibit institutions from spending federal or state dollars on discriminatory initiatives, such as so-called diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI)" programs:" Governor Ron DeSantis Signs Legislation to Strengthen Florida's Position as National Leader in Higher Education.

Dr. Bernice King, the youngest child of civil rights leader Dr. Martin Luther King Junior, has been active in her disapproval of this bill. In a statement issued by The King Center on January 22, she wrote, "Florida would prefer its students not learn about our nation's well-documented history of genocide, slavery, discrimination, and oppression imposed upon black people," and continues by imploring those around the country to speak out about inhumanity and injustice. She says, "the time is now. The children are waiting for you to step up, stop the propaganda and disinformation and show them how you will stand for justice and truth."

Advanced Placement courses are a pivotal classroom opportunity in which students can harness their desire to learn beyond what is required, as well as gain credit for college classes. Governor DeSantis' ban is shutting down expansive ways that could change how students discuss subjects such as mass incarceration, police brutality, and potential and actual discrimination in the justice system.

The College Board, which develops and administers these standardized tests, has now excluded the names of many prominent black writers and other academics associated with critical race theory. Toni Morrison, a literary giant and the first black woman to receive the Nobel Prize in Literature, has compiled work that is transformational in its writing of our history and future. Unfortunately, the work she completed is frequently now in high schools across the country the target of book bans for its "inappropriate" and "explicit" material.

It is not just Florida that is enacting this; sixteen states and counting have banned "critical race theory". The list of states that have banned Critical Race Theory includes Alabama, Arkansas, Arizona, Georgia, Idaho, Iowa, Mississippi, Montana, New Hampshire, North Dakota, Oklahoma, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, and Virginia. Several more states are looking to follow suit.

Shortly after the world spent the day Honoring Dr. Martin Luther King Junior on the 55th anniversary of his assassination on April 4, Texas Sen. Ted Cruz invoked the civil rights leader's name in his own tweet attacking the NAACP, one of America's most acclaimed anti-racist institutions. Again, Dr. Bernice King spoke back to him. King responded to his tweet with a social media post of her father's picture and a statement saying, "What my father would be deeply concerned about is the harmful, discriminatory legislation in Florida. "

Bernice King is once again needing to defend the legacy of her father, Martin Luther King Jr., against people who are misusing his legacy.

"There is no teaching on the horrors and myriad of monstrous manifestations of white supremacy and racism that will be palatable to white supremacists and racists," she stated.

Robert Weiner is a former Clinton and Bush White House spokesman who also served as a senior staffer for the House Government Operations and Judiciary committees and for Congressman John Conyers and Charles Rangel, co-founders of the Congressional Black Caucus, as well as Claude Pepper, Ed Koch, Sen. Ted Kennedy, and Gen. Barry McCaffrey, and Sen. Ted Kennedy. Annie Cayer is policy and research analyst at Robert Weiner Associates and Solutions for Change.


Surgery damage apparent

(Image by Martha Rosenberg) Details DMCA



Primary septoplasty which Frederick received only has a success rate of 43 to 85 percent-- leaving at least 15 percent of patients with no "relief from symptoms," according to research published in the medical journal Cureus last year.

"This surgery I did not consent and which was unnecessary has changed my whole life," Frederick told me. "I wanted to join the Air Force but can't with my constant need for nose strips and sinus wash outs. I can't run and exercise and my sleep is seriously impaired leaving me exhausted all day and barely able to function." Over the nine years since the surgery Frederick says he has lost friends and jobs.

Frederick contacted the surgeon, Joseph Raviv, MD, of the NorthShore University Health System, soon after the surgery, declaring that he was worse, not better. However, the doctor said he could not perform a "revision septoplasty"""the condition was unfixable and permanent.

Online reviews of Dr. Raviv suggest similar patient events. "About five years ago, Dr. Raviv did an extremely invasive procedure on me where he made a new opening in my cheek bone into my sinus cavity," wrote Terri C. in 2021. "He told me it was necessary. I've had nothing but misery since and have worse sinus infections than prior. It has also affected my Csf [cerebrospinal fluid] pressure. When I went back to him with my post-op issues he basically told me there was nothing he could do and washed his hands of me."

Writing on Yelp in 2020, Jeremy S. agreed about Dr. Raviv's problematical surgical skills and indifference to their likely aftermath. Dr. Raviv, "Ruined my nose in surgery," he wrote. The surgeon "took out way too much cartilage. When I came back to show him, he told me, 'maybe you'll learn to breathe through your mouth.'"

Also in agreement with the skepticism was "FP" writing on Yelp, "Regarding my test results, I could not get Dr. Raviv on the phone to answer a single question. I was repeatedly ignored, made seven different phone calls and directed to nurses and managers that could not answer my questions. It resulted with being told that I must make another appointment to discuss my results when the nurse couldn't answer my question."

Legal and Medical Remedies

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(Reuters) -Some Dublin airport staff's financial information has been compromised by a cyber-attack on provider company Aon that also affected various other firms, the Dublin Airport Authority (DAA) said on Sunday.

"DAA can confirm that as a result of a recent cyber-attack on Aon, a third-party professional service provider, data relating to some employees pay and benefits was compromised," a spokesperson said in a statement.

Britain's Sunday Times reported that the attack on file-transfer software tool MOVEit, used by Aon, affected nearly 2,000 Dublin airport staff, as well other agencies and companies in the US and UK.

The cl0p ransomware gang has claimed to be behind the hacking of MOVEit.

AON did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

"DAA is offering support, advice and assistance to employees impacted by this criminal cyber-attack," the Irish airport authority said, without giving further details.

(Reporting by Anirudh Saligrama, additional reporting by Gursimran Kaur, Editing by David Gregorio and Jonathan Oatis)
Portland police arrested a 27-year-old driver for allegedly threatening a police officer with his car Saturday evening.

Adolfo Beltran-Megia Jr. is accused of driving directly at a moving police SUV and slamming on his brakes at the last minute, nearly striking the police car.
Despite all the drama and rancor that defined the 2023 legislative session, Oregonians should be pleased with the results that lawmakers delivered by sessions end. While theres a long way to go, the Legislature made several moves to help steer a course through, if not out, of crisis.

Lawmakers authorized millions for rent assistance to support tenants and approved sensible changes in building code requirements to encourage housing construction. They passed a new child tax credit to provide some relief to the states lowest-income families. Their investments in science-based literacy techniques reflect an acknowledgment that Oregon must make extra efforts to compensate for years of poor educational leadership on such a critical skill. And passage of a bill making possession of more than a gram of fentanyl a misdemeanor represents a sane step to protect Oregonians from a drug that killed more than 500 people statewide in 2021.

But theres another long-festering problem that lawmakers once again failed to address  campaign contribution limits. Despite voters repeatedly showing their support for cracking down on the unlimited donations that individuals, companies, labor unions and others can make to their preferred candidates, lawmakers have yet to pass a law curbing the massive donations of the past year, as The Oregonian/OregonLives Grant Stringer reported. If legislators are unable to develop a credible, fair system by the February short session, voters should be ready to make their voices known, again, and support efforts to adopt limits by initiative on the 2024 ballot.

Oregon is one of only four states in the country with no limits on contributions. In past years, the millions given by Nike co-founder Phil Knight to primarily Republican candidates have been cited as Exhibit A for why Oregon needs limits on campaign contributions. But media reports over the past year exposing multiple problematic donations to Democrats show the need for reform crosses parties.

Last October, now-disgraced FTX executive Nishad Singh sent $500,000 to the Democratic Party of Oregon, contributing the single largest donation that the party has received. But the donation was initially identified as coming from a cryptocurrency payment processing company  not from Singh. Such false reporting should raise questions about whether the Democratic Party of Oregon intentionally flubbed basic campaign finance reporting to sidestep transparency requirements.

Unfortunately, its unclear whether Oregonians will ever get a straight answer to that question thanks to the lackluster investigation by the secretary of states office, whose elections director formerly served as the Democratic Party of Oregons deputy director. Regardless, the influence that such a massive donation can wield is exactly what donation caps help temper.

The more than $200,000 in donations made by La Mota owners Aaron Mitchell and Rosa Cazares to top Democrats should also add pressure for imposing contribution limits. The two have donated heavily over the years to Gov. Tina Kotek, former Secretary of State Shemia Fagan, U.S. Rep. Val Hoyle, Senate President Rob Wagner and several others  sometimes in large stacks of cash  an oddity that the Legislature just voted to disallow.

Do large donations matter? Considering the relatively low salaries that statewide elected officials earn and the flexibility with which they can spend from campaign accounts, such large donations at the very least raise legitimate concerns. Fagan, who had received $45,000 in contributions from Mitchell since 2020, earned only $77,000 as secretary of state and conceded that she was having trouble making ends meet.

In 2021, she sought Cazares input on a draft plan for auditing the Oregon Liquor and Cannabis Commission, public records show, and appears to have incorporated her feedback into the initial audit framework. That was months before she accepted the $10,000-a-month contract with La Mota that would result in her resignation. Would Cazares have had any input on the audit without those donations to Fagans campaign?

Unfortunately, some of the proposals that legislators have pushed the hardest in recent years would still allow large contributions by labor unions and other small-donor political action committees, ensuring that some of the same players that have dominated Oregon politics would continue to wield outsized power.

Oregonians arent looking for a perfect system, but they are looking for a fair one. And if legislators are unable to deliver that, voters should look closely at initiative petitions by campaign finance reform advocates aimed at the 2024 ballot. Considering that its been hard for legislators to turn off the spigot of cash flowing their way, voters may need to do it for them.

-The Oregonian/OregonLive Editorial Board

Sign up for our free Oregon Opinion newsletter. Email:


We are happy to receive feedback on our work, and readers often contact us with questions, comments or concerns. Here are a few that have crossed my desk.

In my recent update to our newsroom diversity initiatives, I mentioned we had lost one diverse reporter. I received a few emails that I found interesting.

Comment 1: You correctly used the word diverse in the phrases diverse perspectives and diverse voices. But diverse should not be applied to individuals. One solitary person, place or thing cannot be diverse.

Comment 2: While I enthusiastically applaud the recent articles on this topic, I suggest that there be some reflection on the use of terms. Specifically, the use of the term diverse to refer to nonwhite people reflects a white-centered orientation; that white people are the norm/standard and everyone else is diverse.

Response: Both these points are well-taken. It is easy in Oregon, where the population is overwhelmingly white to assume white is the default. But in pockets of Oregon, such as Cornelius, the Latino population is more than 50%. In Hillsboro, a quarter of residents are Hispanic. Language that does not presume people are white unless designated otherwise is best.

Comment: As the owner of a Tesla, I question why you call out that a Tesla was involved in a car accident (19-year-old Tesla driver killed in SE Portland crash with tow truck). What make was the third car involved? Why wasnt it listed?

I dont seem to recall that you call out a Ford, Chevy, or Toyota in the headline when those cars involved in an accident? Theres nothing in the story that says the Tesla itself directly contributed to the accident. I believe this is a classic example of MEDIA BIAS.

Response: The police identified the car involved as a white 2022 Tesla Model Y 4-door sedan. To us, thats just an interesting fact. A relatively young, potentially inexperienced driver was operating an expensive, newer, high-performance car and crashed. Similarly, tow truck is more informative than truck. The other car was minimally involved and therefore not described.

Comment: I was very disappointed in the terminology that was used in the article Lawmakers poised to extend right to medically assisted suicide to out-of-state residents. The proper term for this practice is medical aid in dying, not assisted suicide.

The people who choose to make use of Oregons Death With Dignity Law are not suicidal. They much prefer to live but have the misfortune of having a terminal illness. Medical aid in dying allows them to avoid terrible suffering at the end of their lives, caused by the illness. The term suicide has a negative connotation, is not appropriate in this situation, and is actually insulting to those who choose to use Oregons law and to their families.

Response: The language of advocacy is an important issue for journalists, who want to choose words that do not bias the reader toward or against a point of view. We dont regularly use unborn child, for instance, a phrase used by abortion opponents. We would not use death with dignity for the same reason, unless it was in a direct quote (or we needed to cite the actual name of the law, chosen by advocates). The reader is correct that under Oregon law aid-in-dying deaths are not categorized as suicides.

Best practice for journalists is to use neutral terms like medical aid in dying and similar. The word suicide is technically accurate: knowingly and intentionally taking ones own life. But it is also true the term suicide carries a stigma that is unnecessary to associate with this medical intervention. Thats why people have moved away from the phrase physician-assisted suicide.

Comment: Please stop revealing locations of wolf packs. Surely you realize this puts them in danger. This gives the hunters both a map and a green light.

Response: Reporters always balance the right to know, or the need to know, with the potential for harm. Residents of an area have a strong interest in knowing wolves are present. That outweighs the potential harm of someone going there to harm wolves, especially when articles do not pinpoint exact locations and wolves travel widely (30 miles in a day).

Comment: I always enjoy Letters to the Editor. Today, a letter really raised my blood pressure -- the snarky one about the author saying he felt sorry for all the people who watched Fox News. I found it to be quite offensive to people like myself who tend to be on the conservative side. I watch Fox News, I watch CNN news, local news, and am a loyal subscriber to The Oregonian since 1958, thus I feel that I have a pretty broad perspective on goings on locally and on the global fronts. Publishing a snarky letter like that was not in good taste.

Response: We try to carry wide-ranging viewpoints in our letters. I often say an opinion page everyone agrees with is neither attainable nor desirable. The best response is perhaps your own rebuttal sent to letters@oregonian.com.
David Gomberg and Khanh Pham

Gomberg, a Democrat, represents House District 10-Central Coast, Lincoln, Lane and Benton counties, in the Oregon House. Pham, a Democrat, represents House District 46 - Outer Southeast Portland, in the Oregon House.

Over the past week, Oregonians have read many headlines about the accomplishments of the just-concluded legislative session, from major investments in affordable housing to initiatives in education, behavioral health, the opioid crisis, economic development, wildfire response and public safety.

They will have also read that for more than 40 days, the state Senate simply didnt meet.

Because of an unusual provision in our state constitution, Oregon requires two-thirds of lawmakers be present for either chamber of the Legislature to vote on bills. That means that just 10 of 30 senators can walk away and the entire process grinds to a halt.

This is the seventh walkout in six years by Republican legislators of either chamber. Weve seen walkouts to protest bills for school funding, climate policies, redistricting, COVID restrictions and now guns, abortion and whether legislation is easy enough to read. Republicans have consistently walked out on Democratic leadership, and Democrats, in 2001, walked out on Republican leadership. This problem is about process, not partisanship.

We understand the walkouts. Each of us has issues and values that we are prepared to use any and every tool available to protect. But taking a larger view, concerns for some issues should not be able to stop work on all issues. That is not negotiation. That is obstruction.

Last year, voters overwhelmingly approved Measure 113 in an effort to address the problem. But the walkouts persisted. This session we introduced a bill, House Joint Resolution 30 to address the problem more directly.

We believe a simple majority (50% +1), which is the standard for 46 other states and the U.S. Congress, should be the requirement for the Oregon Legislature to conduct business. This change would make walkouts and boycotts by a minority of members irrelevant.

Our bill sought to refer the issue to voters on whether to amend the constitution to change the quorum requirement. A broad coalition of lawmakers from across our state, representing diverse viewpoints and constituencies, are united in support of this change to get Oregons government working for Oregonians again.

In 2023, Oregonians lost six weeks of work by their elected state Senate because we lack a simple majority rule.

Bipartisanship and collaboration are important to our democracy, but it doesnt mean that we always have to agree. In a democracy, you show up, you debate, you negotiate, you amend and then you vote. Thats how government functions in a democracy. And it works! This year, 90% of House and Senate bills passed with strong bipartisan support.

Clearly, Measure 113 did not have the deterrent effect that voters intended. Its time to fix this for good. While House Joint Resolution 30 did not make it through the legislative process this year, we see it as the start of a conversation that our Legislature  and public  desperately needs to have.

As lawmakers, we represent very different districts. From coastal communities to Portlands Southeast neighborhoods, we share a commitment to service and a workable democratic process. The problems facing our communities simply cant wait for grandstanding walkouts that threaten our governments ability to perform its basic functions.

We support a ballot measure to ask Oregon voters to decide: should Oregon join the vast majority of states by adopting a simple majority quorum? Grinding government to a halt by simply not showing up has become an annual Oregon tradition. Its one we should do away with, before the frayed edges of our fragile form of self-government become too worn for repair.

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Alison Edelman and Maria Rodriguez

Edelman and Rodriguez are both physicians at Oregon Health & Science Universitys Center for Womens Health and hold masters degrees in public health.

It was a terrifying moment when a patient from Idaho began leaking fluid during her pregnancy. She was diagnosed with a pregnancy complication in which the amniotic sac surrounding the baby breaks. Once the sac breaks, the risk of developing a serious infection is high. She was told it was very unlikely her baby would survive.

But because she was in Idaho, the patient was not able to receive the recommended care, an abortion. A new law in Idaho bans health care professionals from ending someones pregnancy, unless the fetus no longer has a detectable heartbeat or the patient experiences a medical emergency. But under Idahos extremist laws, determining what is a medical emergency has become a legal minefield for doctors. The patient, who soon developed a life-threatening infection, was rushed to Oregon.

Although a care team at Oregon Health & Science University was able to treat her, it was a traumatic experience: Not only did she have to deal with the sudden loss of a desired pregnancy while facing a frightening medical diagnosis, but she was forced to do so away from her home, community and support system.

Providers are seeing these types of circumstances every week as Oregon experiences a significant influx of out-of-state patients seeking abortion care in the one year since the U.S. Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade  ending 50 years of federal abortion protections in the United States  with its decision in Dobbs v. Jackson Womens Health Organization. Since then, many states have, like Idaho, implemented total abortion bans or adopted other extreme restrictions on abortion care.

These dangerous policies have resulted in abortion services  what should be basic health care  becoming increasingly unsafe and inaccessible to individuals, especially for people of color, immigrants, low-income individuals and LGBTQ+ people, who already face significant barriers.

And they have forced many patients to travel to other states for care; face potential harm to their health; or continue an undesired pregnancy.

Oregon is experiencing the impact of this dilemma firsthand. In the first six months after the Dobbs decision, the number of abortions performed in Oregon for out-of-state residents shot up to 543  a 48% increase over the 366 abortions during the same six-month period a year earlier, according to Oregon Health Authority statistics. Its worth noting that the majority of abortion care in the state is performed by a small handful of providers, so any increase has significant impact.

In a shift from previous years, the majority of OHSUs out-of-state patients last year were from Idaho and Texas  states with some of the most restrictive laws. OHSU also saw individuals from states we have never seen before, including South Dakota, Oklahoma, Louisiana and Florida.

And for those who do make it to Oregon, its rarely an easy journey.

These individuals are extensively delayed in receiving care due to financial constraints, managing time off work and childcare, travel logistics and health care system barriers, including lack of insurance coverage or cultural and language barriers. They are often scared and experiencing significant trauma.

Now more than ever, Oregons reproductive health providers face an increased responsibility to ensure people from out-of-state are able to access safe and legal abortions. Managing this increase in demand for services requires additional time and resources and strains our own health care system, often increasing workloads for providers and wait times for patients.

This also highlights how we as OB/GYNs and Oregonians are at the center of a national reproductive health crisis. Our reproductive health protections affect people far beyond our borders, and we all can reach beyond our statehouse and clinics to fight for reproductive justice.

Supporting organizations like Planned Parenthood and ACLU will fuel national efforts to challenge these harmful abortion bans in courts and at the ballot box. OHSUs own Center for Reproductive Health Equity will provide data-driven education to support those efforts. Additionally, community support of this work though efforts like the Abortion Care and Training Fund are essential to ensuring Oregon can remain a safe haven for individuals who need this life-saving care.

The past year has been a very frightening reality. Were now seeing the very real consequences the Dobbs decision, and all other policies aimed to restrict reproductive health, are having on individuals across this country. Despite the uphill battle were fighting, we will continue to do everything we can to ensure that everyone has access to safe, legal abortion care.

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Elite Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (PNK:ELTP) Q4 2023 Earnings Call Transcript June 30, 2023

Operator: Good morning, ladies and gentlemen, and welcome to the Elite Pharmaceuticals Conference Call. At this time, all lines have been placed on a listen-only mode. Before management begins speaking, the Company has the following statements. Elite would like to remind their listeners that remarks made during this call may contain forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties that are subject to changes at any time, including, but not limited to, statements about Elites expectations regarding future operating results. Forward-looking statements are made pursuant to the Safe Harbor provisions of the federal securities laws and represent managements current expectation. Actual results may differ materially.

Elite disclaims any obligation to update or revise its forward-looking statements, except as required by law. More complete information regarding forward-looking statements, risks and uncertainties can be found in the reports Elite files with the SEC, which are available on Elites website at elitepharma.com under the Investor Relations section. Elite encourages you to review these documents carefully. With that covered, it is now my pleasure to turn the floor over to your host, Mr. Nasrat Hakim, President and Chief Executive Officer of Elite Pharmaceuticals. Sir, the floor is yours.

Nasrat Hakim: Thank you, Matthew, and good morning, ladies and gentlemen. Thank you for joining us today. My name is Nasrat Hakim, I am Elites Chairman and CEO. This is our year-end earnings call. I will give you a summary of the company's financials, an update on Elite's R&D, manufacturing, sale and distribution, and answer some of the questions that you have submitted to Diane. Before I start let me address the issue of our CFO vacancy. Since Diane received a few questions about the subject and I don't want to wait till the end. We have Carter Ward as our CFO for over 13-years. He was here a lot longer than I have been here. And while Carter got a great opportunity elsewhere that we could not match, we wished him well and encouraged him to take it, because he, his family and he is a good person, good CFO and a good stockholder, whom we stay in contact with till today.

Mark helped us recruit his successor. We took a chance on a gentleman, who was a controller and we promoted him to CFO, and he was really good. The pressure got to him and he want to go back to his old job. Anytime you are in a regulated industry where you're subject to the SEC and the auditors as scanning every decision you make and you have to consult with the SEC at times all the time, it [Indiscernible] when you are not used to it. But I would like to emphasize that he did a decent job. He was good and he actually resigned. He made the choice to leave. The next two CFOs did not. I will say nothing further about the subject out of respect for everybody. When you're working for a small company, you got to work. All right. As the acting CFO at least for today, I have the pleasure of updating you on our wonderful financials.

Yesterday, we filed our 10-K for the year ending March 31, 2023. Elite is on a March fiscal year, a copy of the 10-K is available in the Investors Section of our website at elitepharma.com. It is also posted on sec.gov and many other websites that provide link to our filings. I'll start with the financial update with the income statement. We had record sales of about $34 million this fiscal year, up approximately $2 million, compared to the last year ending in 2022. Last year we had $32 million this year it's $34 million. This is primarily to the sales of our generic version of Adderall, Naltrexone tablets and Loxapine capsules. The cost of goods sold was $17.6 million, compared to $17.5 million during the previous year. Now as a general rule, the cost of goods usually increases as revenues increase.

Despite a $2 million increase in revenues, the cost of goods held constant. We posted an operating profit of approximately $3.7 million, compared to $5 million in 2022. The $1.7 million decrease in operating profit was primarily driven by an increase in R&D spending of about $2 million over the previous year. Previous year we have spent about $1.5 million, this year we spent $3.5 million, $2 million more than previous year. Our operating expenses were $13 million, an increase of approximately $3 million over the previous year of $10 million. The increase was primarily related to R&D increase in spending, that's $2 million and $1 million of interest on our outstanding loan. Let's move to our balance sheet. Our working capital is $13.6 million, compared to $12.2 million during the previous year.

Our cash from operating activities is $3.7 million, down from $6.5 million, compared to the previous year for the reasons we spoke of R&D expenses et cetera in 2023. Our total cash on hand was $7.8 million as of March 31, 2023. That is after we paid a $12 million loan to East West Bank. Let me say a couple of words about the loan that we recently repaid. Elite's working capital requirements have increased as we transition to direct sales. Payment terms for direct sales require a longer time for repayment and a longer inventory hold time, compared to licensing our product. Elite had a $12 million loan from East West Bank that we intended to use part of it for this purpose. Due to restrictive covenants and Lannett's termination agreement, the bank would not allow us access to the majority of the loan money, but continue charging us on the full loan.

Therefore, Elite decided to pay off the loan and decided to raise the money elsewhere. The company put in place a loan proposal to raise $6 million under the same terms as East West Bank, but without the restrictions. This is a short-term loan to be paid in one to two years. It's a short-term loan for one year with only Elite having the right to extend it to a second year to support the sales transition. This new loan provides the working capital needed without the restrictions that East West Bank put on us. It will also allow us to reduce the outstanding debt interest by on $6 million by 50%. So we had $12 million, we really didn't need all of it, so we're, kind of, borrowed $6 million with paying interest on $12 million, to less pay interest on $6 million.

Same exact conditions except actual Elite the money instead of paying interest and not using it. And so far, I have contributed $3 million and there is $1 million in the queue that's coming week and we may pause in here to see how we do before we raise the other two, okay? We have potential investors that are willing to do this, but for now we may pause and see how the working capital working and continue with that. That is mainly to help us reduce the cost of interest of borrowing this money. Now an important fact I was to highlight is our annual sales have been on progressive trend for the past five years. $7.5 million in fiscal year 2019, $18 million in 2020; $25 million in fiscal year 2021, $32 million in 2022, and now $34 million this fiscal year.

In a short period of five years, Elite's revenues have drastically increased by 325%. That is excellent news for us. The bad news is our stock price is inversely proportional to our achievements. The better we do, the less value it gets over the past five years, even though quarter-after-quarter, year-after-year, we have shown growth in the business that is undeniable, the stock price is still disappointing and not where we want it to be. Once we go through an adjustment period in the next few months, now that we started our own sales and marketing, this trend will continue. The revenues after few months -- just to give you a target date, let's say January of 2024 and few months. From January -- December, will be substantially higher when they are today.

I mentioned the number $40 million in revenues annually during the last conference call. I would like to resend that and say it will be north of $40 million. To continue this trend, we need to invest in R&D. We need to feed the pipeline. Elite continues to invest in product development. Our goal is to commercialize a new competitive products as we grow and diversify our portfolio. Elite recently filed two ANDAs, a generic antimetabolite ANDA and a generic dopamine agonist ANDA. These two are under review by FDA today. In addition, the company submitted partial ANDA for pain management for review by FDA. The partial application contains the recently conducted insufflation study. Elite intends to provide the FDA with the remaining data in Q3 of 2023 to complete this filing.

We disclosed a while back that we're actually continued working on a generic version of Oxycodone. And the last time we filed it, we had deficiencies and one of the deficiencies that everybody got is that an insufflation study was not conducted. It was cost prohibitive. That study alone is about $1.5 million, $2 million, and this is why we put the project on hold. Once we learn that the things are turning in the opioid world and the states and the federal government have sued everybody they can sue and settled everything they can settle. Now the pendulum is switching and we really believe in the next three to five years that opioids are going to come back under managed control. Nowadays, before we release anything, we have to have realization, where actually the FDA can come in here and know exactly where each bottle not lot, each bottle ended up at what pharmacy or whose house okay?

That's how sterilization works. It also demanded the FDA that we have RIMs where we have to educate the doctors and the patients about the use. They also reduce the amount of prescriptions or tablets per prescription that you can have at home you cannot likely all days have automatic refill. You have to go to the doctor. You can get a specific amount. So all of these are factors in opioids getting back to the market in my opinion. And this is why we started working on this product. Once we did the insufflation study, we are resourced because the results were positive and we wanted to make an announcement. But then we learned that there are three other companies that are doing the same thing and we did not want them to beat us to the punch by knowing that we just made an announcement that we're going to file.

So we had to be quiet, wait till we file a partial application to get the PDUFA date going, okay? And now I can tell you about it. The full application should be filed by August 1st and hopefully the FDA would accept it. That usually takes 45 to 60 days and once they do, we'll make an announcement. All right. Elite has three products that have moved from the formulation development phase and are now in the clinical phase. They are in the pilot BE phase. We have conducted pilot studies or the BE studies or the BE study is ongoing. For future growth, Elite has other products that have entered the formulation development stage. We will update you on other development products when we reach certain milestones such as filing or approval. Let me take a second and summarize R&D as I did with the financials.

In order to have a full R&D system and a company functional R&D system, you have to have formulations that are pending FDA approval, because they're going to get approved and you recognize revenues from that. You need to have some that you're doing clinical trials on or close to filing with the FDA. And you have to have some that you've just vetted the process, yes, these are good products for us to have, they are fit for our company, the extended release or tablet or capsule, which we can do versus an injectable. What I just described to you right now, we have products that are in the formulation stage. We have three that are in the clinical stage and two are with FDA. We have a fully functional R&D system. The second thing I want to emphasize is that the three products that I mentioned that are in the clinical stage are all needle movers.

What I mean by that, they will have material impact on the company if any of them is approved. If we got one of them approved, we'll continue the positive revenue trend beyond 2024 and 2025 as a result of the contribution from them. If we hit all three of them, that would be a very good day for Elite and the stockholders. We finished this year with a strong sales through our licensees. And by year I mean fiscal year ending March 31st, 2023. We saw revenue growth from the year before. We invested some of our profits and the continued development of our pipeline and invested in creating our sales on -- and distribution organization. The products that are bringing the revenues today are Amphetamine, IR and ER. These are Elite's largest products this year.

We expect them to continue to be that under Elite's label. We have contracts in place and we expect to maintain our double-digit marketing shares with these products. Management of the DEA quota is always a challenger. However, Elite has been able to manage through this challenge to-date. Amphetamine IR remains on the FDA shortage list and both products are in demand. A few minutes ago, I got a call from Kirko the IMS or IQVIA data came out for the month of May, we just launched in April and we didn't have that much material to launch, because we were making everything for Lannett. And for the month of April, for the IR, were on command with 6.68% of the market. I definitely expect that number to improve. Isradipine and Trimipramine are being sold under Elite's label now as of April 1st although modest in volume.

Both products have only one competitor and that is really important. Isradipine in particular is an interesting opportunity and we believe with direct sales, Elite can increase the value of this product. And so Isradipine can make a difference in contributing margins to the bottom line of Elite. Loxapine and Dantrolene are also transitioned to Elites label as of April 1st. Both products have only two competitors. Pricing has been challenging though despite few competitors and despite Loxapine only recently coming off of the FDA shortage list. But we do expect that we will be making a -- they will be making a contribution to the company and hopefully the margins, because they are in a field of two players will be healthy margins of profit.

License products, we will continue to sell selected products through licensees as well. For example, our long-term partner TAGI that's been with us for a decade and a half, well continue to sell Phentermine and Naltrexone for us. The increase in sales are introducing new products once the ANDAs are approved, require more employees, more warehouse storage space and more equipment. We are in the process of upgrading several pieces of equipment in the facility to keep up with sales demands. But there is a point where we will have to have another facility to support our manufacturing. And the time to plan for it is now. It's an expensive project, but it's one of the most important projects that's on my mind. As an executive, you always have to think within a three-year time zone plus or minus, not only three-years in the future.

Decisions we made few years ago impact us today. We need to continue refining these decisions, adjusting them and planning to make them better. Decisions we make today are going to affect us in the future and we need to do the same. For example, when we did the three basket approach or three-pronged approach, slowing the [art] (ph) technology, creating partnerships that led to SunGen and amphetamine combo and developing our own R&D, that decision is really what made us profitable today, okay? On the first part, slowing down the art technology, it was draining as the FDA kept asking for more and more and each study will cost millions of dollars and these millions of dollars, I don't believe in borrowing money. So we were selling shares and we'll address that in a second.

And we as a point where we can't do that anymore, because it doesn't look like there is an ending sight for that. Slowing that down and focusing our attention on partnerships and our own product give us amphetamine combo and give us the products we have today and made us the viable company we did today. If we did not and if we actually borrowed money back then in order to support the art technology, we will be like a corn bankrupt. It will be bankrupt even like Lannett, whom today even though they survived, but the stockholders didn't. The stockholders got zero money and the private detectors took over the whole company. Elite would have been in the same position and even though our stock is low, it has the hope of coming back because our great financials.

But if we borrowed money, there will be zero hope and zero opportunity for us to even make it. Okay. Sales and marketing -- sales and distribution is one of these instances. In addition to thinking of another plan, sales and distribution is another one of these instances. Just to give you a historic background of how we got here, you all know and understand and remember that we then have sales and marketing, so us and SunGen partners with Lannett for the IR and ER, we engaged in a three-year licensing agreement that would end March of 2022. Lannett did a good job with growing the net sales for the amphetamine IR and ER. Elite and Lannett decided to extend the licensing agreement by two years to 2024, and that's March 2024. It was interesting that Lannett extended it at about the same month in November 2021, when they got approval for their amphetamine ER.

Well, when that happened, immediately responding into action and start planning for the company's future, we start looking into sales and marketing by 2024 or another distributor, because we sold the writing on the wall. Now in January of 2022 after about a month or two of [Indiscernible] it was starting to bother me, I started to search for a VP of sales. We screened and interviewed several candidates, three very solid candidates, still we met Kirko and of course, we selected number four, who was in my opinion outstanding. In July 2022, Lannett received approval for the IR and for amphetamine. Even then, they placed them on the discontinued list and everybody tried to assure me like, hey, don't worry, they have GMP issues, their financial problems, they don't want to head up with making this, you're making it taking all the risk and they're just selling it, they put it on the discontinued list.

Pharmacy, Medicine, Health

Photo by Raimond Klavins on Unsplash

There is no way they want to sell it. And I said, no. We continue trying to get licensed in all 50 states, hiring somebody to do this and planning for our own sales and marketing. Sure enough shortly after, Lannett exercised six month termination clause in the agreement. Within these six months because of all of the background work we did, we got licensed in all 50 states and we hired Kirko. September of 22, I believe 5th or 6th of September, we hired Kirko. When we hired Kirko, we want him to succeed, so we immediately also issued a termination notice to Epic to bring home Isradipine and Trimipramine also by March of 22. We got six month notice from Lannett. We issued six month notice to everybody else, hey, we want our products back, because we've got somebody who's going to sell them.

We terminated the contract with Lannett for Dantrolene and brought that home by March 2023. We terminated the Prasco agreement and brought home Loxapine by March 2023. So in addition to Amphetamine IR and ER, we also had Phendimetrazine and Phentermine and Dantrolene and Isradipine and Trimipramine and Loxapine for [Indiscernible] that makes it a little better for a salesperson to go in with all of these products instead of one. Kirko joins in September and with the mandate to set up a commercial operations group and launch the Elite brand, meaning launch Elite's products on our label. For all of Elite's ANDAs that are available by April 1st, 2023. Kirko explained to us what the process involved, he needed to set up a national distribution system with the support of 3PL partners, 3PL stands for third-party logistics provider.

Because Elite does not have the capability and the warehouse operation to ship directly from here to pharmacies in smaller months and pick and pack and all of that, we needed the 3PL to do that. So he did that, he developed the specifications for the 3PL service. He set up the RFP process for the interested 3PL service providers to bid on a three-year contract to work with Elite. We consider six providers, reduced it to three and selected [Crossroads] (ph). Kirkos mandate was to develop a commercial sales, marketing and distribution strategy, ecocide and distribution contracts with distributing partners such as McKesson, AmerisourceBergen, Cardinal, buying groups such as Premier Genetics, Optisource, Topco, RX Sourcing strategies, LLC, retailers such as CVS, Walgreens, Publix and Myers.

He also set up the contracting with the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services CMS to provide access to Elite's products. And was ready for national distribution of 29 NDCs on Elite's label by April 1st, 2023. We got him in September and October, he already signed the contract with Crossroads the 3PL in November, he had the first contract delivered to us with Premier by December. He had contracts with Publix, Myers, Optisource, Golden Oaks and then Red Oaks, which is 50% for our business. He had contracts in place with all of these guys in addition to working with the staff, getting license in all 50 states, listing at in the compendium as well. When in March, the customer awards commitments began coming in, we are making batches for Lannett and we still managed to launch our products on April 1st.

April 1st through June, it's my rough estimation that this is going to be a dip quarter, it's going to be a low quarter. It's going to be in the $7 million range in revenues. Now we're talking about $7 million range just remember in 2019 in the entire year we made seven $7 million. Now in this quarter is about as much as we used to make an entire year. Elite now has in place logistics, warehousing, sales, and financial reporting for both controlled and uncontrolled products. Elite is executing its growth plan by filing new ANDAs as I've explained, obtaining product approvals and creating our own sales and distribution organization. We look forward to reporting our first quarter's earnings and talking to you about it or analyzing it with you on August 15th.

Goodbye. All right, so take -- I'll go to some of the questions that you sent to Diane. And honestly some of the questions are as always some of our stockholders are brilliant, they ask the right questions, some of them give me great feedback and some not so much. I'll start first with the partnerships and sales. The first set of questions, but five, six of them, five of them are about Mikah and Adderall, okay? I've addressed this issue to death and there will be no more at a single decision. If and when, the Board of Directors decided this time to make an offer. And if it is accepted then there will be an announcement, till then, we are in the same norm we were in the port, where SunGen on this product and if SunGen sold it to a Chinese or Indian company, would have been in the same boat or even worse, it does not impact Elite in any way shape or form.

The board will decide if and when they are going to make an offer and you're asking the question doesn't mean I'm going to tell you, oh yeah, thanks for asking, I talked to the board and they said let's do this. These questions are meant to create negative impact on the Board and create gossip and we're done with that. We are a serious company. We're starting sales and marketing. We need to start in sustaining serious questions. Questions like why didn't you give us the money in 2020 in order to buy this are really ridiculous. Okay? Under Lannett, Adderall XR barely scratched the surface. What are the expectations for Elite with this and the IR? Very intelligent question, really very complicated question. If this was not a controlled substance, I will tell you it will be like a home run with the base is loaded, but this is a controlled substance.

We cannot sell more than what the DEA permits us. We definitely are trying, but today I'm trying to give you the honest to witness positive picture about the company, so I don't want to talk about the demons on my head and that is the DEA Census Code hand to mouth, we are having to struggle and turn things around and all the hard work we're doing here, that's not for you guys to worry about. That's for Doug Plassche and myself and Chris Dick and Kirko to worry about. But we cannot make a product if we don't have the API. To get the API, the DEA needs to allow us quota. The DEA is really controlling the quota now. The DEA is not developed here. They have a good point. They sent us analysis that they authorize, let's say I don't remember the numbers, let's say 5 billion units to go to the market and they only see 3 billion in the market.

So where are the other 2 million? Are people holding on in it to drive the prices up or to wait till somebody can deliver and they have a failure to supply situation? They need to investigate that stuff. But Elite is now one of these people, we're a tiny little company that really are making this stuff and next day we're shipping it and we can show evidence that it's going straight to the pharmacy and it's being sold, okay? But of course, we have to go through the channels everybody goes through and we have to work with the DEA. And but for that we would do very well, okay. With this long answer, let me give you a positive twist. My expectations for 2024 that will probably double the ER sales, okay, at least go 1.5 times what we have with Lannett.

I'm hoping showing the DEA that I'm selling all of this and I have contracts that will give us a break and that break will go a little at a time, so it's not going to happen today. So maybe by next year, when I show them all that data, they'll trust us and give us more. But up till then, we're going to be selling pretty much about the same thing we sold under Lannett or maybe a little more. Development questions, any word on the oxy genetic abuse study? Yes, as I just updated you, we really ran the insufflation study. We had to go radio silence on it because of competitive reasons. We submitted the data to FDA will supplement it in another 30-days or so with the rest of it. We will wait for them to give us final answer, I'm going to have final answer, we'll let you know.

Does Elite Pharmaceutical have any plans to resume their abuse deterrent technology? Not at this time, it's extremely costly. As I mentioned before, we don't have the money for us to go back to the SequestOx, which is going to cost millions of dollars, we are better served taking care of the facility, the parent R&D line, Kirko, sales and marketing, and creating a foundation that will survive. Later on, when we have money disbursed, then we can do that. But right now, I have no interest in doing that for the reasons I mentioned. The ER is of interest to me and Pfizer is still blocking everything, because of what they did and we forget a way around that when we have the money. Right now, we don't. Please provide an update on the Pyros genetic vigabatrin launch?

We are nearing one year into three year deal with zero revenues generated thus far. We sold Pyros the product. It is theirs, okay? We are contact manufacturers. When they ask us to manufacture it, we will manufacture it at a cost plus, but that's about it. This is not a product that we intend to discuss. I wish them success. We will support them in any way we can to succeed, but this is their product now and we will contact manufacturers for a couple of years for them and we'll move on, okay. Any update on Dexcel in Israel? Fanish ask this week we actually heard it from them. They sent us a notification telling us they are going to sent a samples for us to test, so let me explain to our stockholders that don't understand the issue in here what's going on.

We have a product that's approved by FDA. We are selling it in America. The Israelis would like it. These are either laws are different than ours. They have the administrative health that needs to approve this product. If it's approved by FDA, that's a plus, but that doesn't mean they automatically let it in the country. So Dexcel have to go through specific steps in order to make that product fit their country if they can. They may not be able to, okay. This is an exploratory venture that are trying. They think they can. They think it's a great opportunity, they think they want to talk about other products. But all of that to me is talking till we get to the point where it gets approved? From our end there is nothing for us to do. The product is already approved.

All we can do is they sent the samples to go please compare this to that. Please compare to what we sell in Israel. Please look if you can see certain impurities for the Israeli Ministry of Health. Whatever they ask us for, we'll do it. If and when we have a material event such as they're going to launch the product, we'll tell you. It will be great news for us to share. Other than that, there's nothing for us to discuss really. Can you please provide some clarity on the CFO changes? I already did that. There's two, three questions on that. When you work for a small company, you got to work hard. Look at Kirko in six months, he moved mountains. Doug Plassche, unbelievable acoustic same thing, I have an outstanding senior staff that we are all on the front line doing the work.

I cannot handle a person that recruiters bring into us. So they can be a corporate person sitting in their office and wanting to hire and entire staff and not work. You need to be a worker be at Elite, that's what we all are. Business strategies, almost all previously communicated, strategies have failed. The three-pronged that was the last long-term strategy review. Please provide a strategic vision for investors as to where the company is heading near-term and long-term? And I only read this questions to make a point. First, the reason we exist today is because of the three-pronged approach, number one. Number two, every single quarter even though we are an OTC, bulletin boards, small company, I have digitize on what we're doing, what we have done and what we're going to do.

So these are the questions I will not be answering in the future. What are the revenue expectations for the current quarter? It's going to be above 7%. The next quarter maybe 8.5%. The one after, maybe we'll start hitting the mark, if not, definitely, by January. And as I said, I do expect us to surpass the 40 million at least when they did this [Indiscernible] and we are full swing and especially for next fiscal year. And by the way, the next CFO, the very first mandate for him or her, is going to be change this fiscal year crap from March to a normal year, because that is really annoying. What events has happened between the loss you see and today that you feel may have a material impact on the Elite share price? The first question is part of the question is wonderful.

The second one is the depressing part. As I just said, all of the good things that happen it seems like our share price is inversely proportional to our achievement. We've done a lot of great things and the share price is not moving. So I am not sure yet short-term what I can do to move it. Long-term, I have a plan, okay. In a year or two when we get couple of more products, there are certain things we can do in order to change that. But right now we have done a lot of things. I just want to throw them all from all of the achievements setting up sales and marketing, moving the products in-house, our revenues, all of that has been since the last meeting. What impact, if any, has the expiration of the Lannett partnership with the Elite Financials revenues on profitability?

As I said, I am hoping that will be in better financial shape, because now we're in charge for our own destiny we can sell other products not only Amphetamine IR and ER with the same figure. Okay, I'll disclose something for you to understand what I mean. The company that was selling one of our products, not the Amphetamine IR and ER, our lesser products brought in certain revenues in 12-months in the whole year. Kirko in 12-weeks brought in twice as much money and they did in the whole year. Why? Because it's his product, he's going there and trying to sell it, okay, versus the other company they put it and some compendium registering and somebody orders that they do and they don't, they don't. He actually sold more than they did in a whole year in 2.5 months, okay?

And it's still the first quarter, yes. So this is the kind of thing that I'm hoping will help us financially. Revenue wise it's going to be more, profit is going to be a little tricky, because now we have a higher cost for the sales and marketing department, okay? Just to give you a simple example that just came to mind, let's assume you're a pharmacist and you have five products in your pharmacy and one of them is mine, you're selling it. Well, you decide not to sell mine anymore and I want to sell it. If I open a pharmacy for that one product, if you and I sell the same amount of product, my cost is higher, because I only have one in the pharmacy and you got five, okay? So how the profitability is going to work over the next few months? I'm still trying to figure out that out and what other products we can supplemented with, maybe even going as far as asking another company if we can sell their product in order for us to do that.

There are other things we can do. But right now, I got to focus on how to make this a success, okay? And then we'll move to the next step. As Elite has become self-sufficient financially. Would you consider taking your salary in all cash as this would have a definite impact on the dilution of the share of the company? Listen, nothing would please me more than I would have been paid in cash from day one. The reason I don't is because we don't have the money. And it is a little bit weird for me to say to the board, hey, yeah, why don't you pay me in cash? And by the way, I'm loaning you money because you need it. So yes, the answer is yes long-term, I'm hoping in a year or two, we will change all of that. As of today, it's only me and the Board that gets and talks everybody else, we've cleared that out.

And hopefully we will change that. But right now, this is what's working for us and we'll continue doing it for at least another year. Can Mr. Hakim explain on the press release regarding the increase in R&D and setting up sales and distribution effect or efforts? Both are quite important. My interest in R&D is if the company is working on products with substantial marketing opportunity. That's very intelligent question. That's really a true stockholders question and the answer is yes, as I've explained before, we're spending more on R&D, because that's our lifeline, that's our bloodline and unless we feed that, is going to be a point where your revenues are kind of start to go down and you'll go out of business and the same goes for the sales and marketing.

Thank you for that question. Okay. Launch of Elite's label. How is the launch of the Elite label going? It's going well. It's very exciting actually. I traveled with Kirko to Dallas one time. We spent an entire week of going through with all of the potential sales and marketing distributors and man he knows everybody and he's well connected in there. And we launched as April 1st, slow and study and May was much better than April and June was better than April and May. And July will be that and August will part to tip-off and after that we will be in a nice trajectory. We have not had any updates on the impact of the new sales department leader has had on the company? Can you share with us some of the achievements since he came on board? I already went through all of that.

Kirko has done an outstanding job with Elite. So I'll not repeat everything I said, but I'll tell you this, Kirko is not only a great employee. He's really a great human being, yes. I sat when we want to meet with that also, I sat with him in the car for five, six hours each race, so we spent 10 to 12 hours in the car. He really is a wonderful human being. He is a good family man, a good human being. He is fun, he is intelligent, he is highly educated and IT graduate. He speaks multiple languages. He is well liked as I said everywhere we went to a conference call, it was like speed dating. They bring people every 20 minutes. Every 20 minutes you have to part two different company and they kicked them out another 20 minutes. And everybody that came in, he either knew them, knew the college that were there before them and knew their families and knew their company once it's with their history.

So many of them were delighted to see him and that goes a long way in getting sales and marketing. What he's done in the past six months, we take somebody else over two years, okay? I just realized something. Diane, do you think Kirko is listening? Because if Kirko is listening, this is going to ask me to renegotiate his contract. So let me amend my question and say this, he's doing okay, all right? I'm going to have to study him for a year and two before I give you a final answer. Well, thank you all for listening. This concludes our meeting for today. We will talk to you on August 15. Have a wonderful weekend and happy birthday to America. Thank you, Mathews.

Operator: Thank you, everyone. This concludes today's event. You may disconnect at this time and have a wonderful day. Thank you for your participation.

See also 15 Hardest Sports in the World Ranked and 16 Best Places to Live in Upstate New York for Families .

Q -:
Paris, France (PANA) - The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) has accepted the proposal of the US to rejoin the UN agency
Photo: (Photo : Spencer Platt/ Getty Images)

In a heartbreaking turn of events, two 14-year-olds met a tragic fate while engaging in the dangerous act of subway surfing in New York City.

The incidents, occurring within a week of each other, have raised serious concerns about the alarming rise in subway surfing incidents and the safety of young individuals in the bustling metropolis. The city mourns the loss of these young lives while grappling with the urgent need to address this dangerous trend.

Subway Surfing Deaths Soar as New York City Faces Disturbing Trend

According to NBC News, subway Surfing, a perilous activity involving riding on top of train cars, has gained momentum among adventurous youths in New York City.

However, the consequences of this daredevil act have proven to be fatal. The recent deaths of two 14-year-olds, Jevon Fraser and Brian Crespo, have shed light on the gravity of the issue and the urgent need for preventive measures.

The tragedy unfolded on Thursday evening at the 33rd and Rawson Street subway stations in Queens.

Jevon Fraser was found unconscious on the 7 train platform, displaying injuries indicative of a fall from an elevated height. Despite being rushed to a local hospital, Fraser succumbed to his injuries, joining Brian Crespo, who tragically lost his life just a week prior while subway surfing on a Manhattan-bound L train in Brooklyn.

NY City Officials, Law Enforcement Respond to Disturbing Trend

With the rise in subway surfing incidents and the loss of young lives, New York City officials, including Mayor Adams, have expressed their deep concern and called for immediate action.

Adams has attributed the surge in subway surfing to the influence of social media, urging platforms like TikTok to take responsibility and ban videos promoting such dangerous stunts.

The New York Police Department (NYPD) has been actively working to address this issue. Their efforts include apprehending a 12-year-old boy, who was caught subway surfing for the fourth time.

As previously reported by CBS, there was a staggering 366% surge in the incidence of subway surfing between 2021 and 2022.

Tragically, in March, a 14-year-old boy lost his life after falling between subway cars in the Bronx while engaging in this dangerous act atop a 5 train.

The NYPD issued a Juvenile Report for Reckless Endangerment, highlighting the dangers associated with this act and emphasizing the importance of passenger safety.

Read Also: President Biden Unveils New Student Loan Repayment Options After Supreme Court Blocks Debt Relief Plan

Urgent Measures to Combat Subway Surfing, Ensure Passenger Safety

As subway surfing incidents continue to escalate, city officials and law enforcement agencies are exploring strategies to combat this dangerous trend.

According to the New York Post, Mayor Adams has called for increased awareness campaigns, educating youngsters about the perils of subway surfing and emphasizing the importance of responsible behavior while using public transportation.

Additionally, the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) is actively collaborating with the NYPD to enhance security and surveillance measures across subway stations. They aim to identify individuals engaging in subway surfing and discourage such risky behaviors through stricter penalties and increased enforcement.

The incidents serve as a sobering reminder of the need for greater vigilance, education, and enforcement to ensure passenger safety on the subway.

With city officials, law enforcement, and transportation authorities working together, there is hope that proactive measures can be implemented to prevent further tragedies and protect the lives of the city's young residents.

Related Article: US Supreme Court Ruling Allows Businesses To Refuse LGBTQ Customers
Photo: (Photo : Allison Joyce / Getty Images)

North Carolina, known for its ongoing debates and legal battles surrounding abortion laws, has taken a significant step forward in implementing a revised 12-week abortion ban.

On Friday, U.S. District Judge Catherine Eagles ruled in favor of allowing nearly all provisions of the revised law to take effect.

However, she temporarily blocked one rule that raised concerns among doctors regarding potential criminal penalties.

The decision has sparked mixed reactions among advocates and critics of the new legislation.

Implementation of the Revised 12-Week Abortion Ban

Judge Eagles' ruling paves the way for the majority of North Carolina's revised abortion law to be enacted starting Saturday.

The Republican-controlled General Assembly recently passed legislation that revised or repealed most of the provisions challenged by abortion providers, making arguments against them moot.

Notably, the lawmakers clarified that medication abortions would remain legal in nearly all cases up to 12 weeks of pregnancy.

Additionally, the revised law reaffirms that a lawful abortion is an exception to North Carolina's fetal homicide statute.

As reported by ABC, while the revised law can now be enforced, Judge Eagles temporarily blocked one specific rule that doctors feared could expose them to criminal penalties.

The rule required doctors to document the existence of a pregnancy within the uterus before conducting a medication abortion.

Abortion providers argued that this requirement raised questions about the dispensation of abortion pills when it was too early in a pregnancy to locate an embryo using an ultrasound, potentially subjecting providers to violations of the law.

Judge Eagles acknowledged these concerns and directed that the state refrain from enforcing this rule for at least the next two weeks.

North Carolina's New Law Received Varying Support and Opposite

Advocates of abortion rights, including Planned Parenthood South Atlantic, expressed some relief at the judge's ruling.

Peter Im, an attorney for Planned Parenthood, stated that they had already achieved many of their objectives through revisions made by the legislature. He emphasized that the ruling clarified that care could be provided to patients in the earliest stages of pregnancy.

On the other hand, according to the Associated Press, supporters of the revised law, such as Caitlin Connors from the anti-abortion group SBA Pro-Life America, hailed the ruling as "a crucial win for the unborn and their mothers."

Critics of the 12-week abortion ban and related restrictions argue that they will disproportionately affect low-income women and those residing in rural areas, making it harder for them to access lawful abortions.

They point to requirements such as mandatory in-person visits to providers before the state's 72-hour waiting period can begin, which was previously allowed over the phone.

Additionally, starting October 1, surgical abortions performed after 12 weeks of pregnancy must be completed in hospitals, according to the new law.

The licensing of abortion clinics is also set to change in October, adding further implications to the landscape of reproductive healthcare in North Carolina.

Read Also: North Carolina Republicans Pass Bill Restricting Abortion Access to 12 Weeks, Sparking Controversy

Moving Forward with the 12-Week Abortion Ban

While the ruling allows the revised 12-week abortion ban to take effect, it does not resolve all the concerns raised by abortion providers.

As per CNN, Judge Eagles has expressed her intention to address other challenges and revisit the temporarily blocked rule in upcoming hearings.

The battle over North Carolina's abortion laws is far from over, as advocates and opponents of the revised legislation continue to engage in legal battles and public discourse on the rights of women, access to reproductive healthcare, and the role of the state in regulating abortion.

As North Carolina moves forward with the implementation of the revised abortion law, the effects on doctors, patients, and the broader healthcare landscape remain to be seen.

The temporary limitation on doctor protections highlights the ongoing legal complexity surrounding abortion rights in the state, leaving many anxiously awaiting the next stages of the legal process and the potential long-term implications for reproductive healthcare access in North Carolina.

Related Article: Students of North Carolina's Forsyth Technical Community College Safe After Gunfire Scare Prompts Evacuation
Photo: (Photo : TANNEN MAURY / Getty Images)

The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) has taken legal action against a detention center in Southern Illinois, alleging the violation of children's rights through the use of inhumane solitary confinement practices.

The lawsuit shines a light on the conditions at the Franklin County Juvenile Detention Center, where young detainees as young as 11 years old are confined to small cells for up to 23 hours a day, subjected to limited access to basic necessities, and deprived of mental health support.

The ACLU of Illinois has recently filed a lawsuit against the Franklin County Juvenile Detention Center, situated in Benton, Southern Illinois.

Allegations of Inhumane Conditions Unveiled

According to The Daily Best, the legal action asserts that the facility has been subjecting children as young as 11 to extremely harsh conditions, primarily through the use of solitary confinement.

The lawsuit claims that these young individuals are confined to cells comparable in size to parking spaces, spending up to 23 hours a day alone. Such prolonged isolation significantly impacts their mental well-being and overall development.

According to the lawsuit, young detainees at the Franklin County Juvenile Detention Center face additional challenges. They must seek staff permission even to perform basic activities such as flushing the toilet. Access to educational materials and schoolwork is often severely limited, with some children going days or even weeks without appropriate learning resources.

Shockingly, the lawsuit also reveals the presence of black mold growing on the walls of the facility, further compromising the health and safety of the detainees.

Violation of Children's Rights and Lack of Rehabilitation

ABC reported that the ACLU's legal action asserts that the conditions at the Franklin County Juvenile Detention Center are a direct violation of the children's rights protected under the 14th Amendment.

Kevin Fee, the lead lawyer representing the ACLU in the case, describes the situation as "inhumane to the level of being unspeakable."

The lawsuit seeks a court order to compel the facility to make immediate improvements and address the deprivation of the detainees' constitutional rights. Solitary confinement, especially for extended periods, has been widely recognized as harmful, particularly for juveniles.

The ACLU lawsuit highlights the contradiction between the purpose of the juvenile legal system, which should prioritize rehabilitation over punishment.

Clinical and forensic psychologist Apryl Alexander, who works with detained youth, emphasizes the need to treat these young individuals as capable of change and growth rather than subjecting them to inhumane conditions.

Calls for Urgent Reforms and Ban on Solitary Confinement

According to Time, the alarming revelations about the conditions at the Franklin County Juvenile Detention Center have sparked calls for immediate action and systemic reforms.

The ACLU of Illinois, through its lawsuit, aims to shed light on the unjust treatment endured by young detainees and bring about substantial changes in the facility's practices.

It is crucial to note that solitary confinement for youth has been prohibited by the Illinois Department of Juvenile Justice since 2015.

However, the recent legislation signed by Governor J.B. Pritzker serves to reinforce this ban, making it illegal to subject "young detainees in detention centers to solitary confinement for any purpose other than preventing immediate physical harm."

Read Also: US Supreme Court Ruling Allows Businesses To Refuse LGBTQ Customers

Clinical experts and advocates emphasize that solitary confinement can have severe consequences, including an increased risk of suicide and retraumatization, especially for young individuals who have already experienced trauma before their detention.

The lawsuit aims to hold the Franklin County Juvenile Detention Center accountable for its actions and to ensure that the rights and well-being of detained children are safeguarded.

As of now, neither the Franklin County Juvenile Detention Center nor the Illinois Department of Juvenile Justice has issued a response to the allegations presented in the lawsuit.

In conclusion, the ACLU's lawsuit against the Southern Illinois detention center sheds light on the violation of children's rights through inhumane solitary confinement practices.

With mounting evidence of the detrimental effects of prolonged isolation, the legal action seeks urgent reforms to improve the conditions for young detainees at the Franklin County Juvenile Detention Center and ensure that their rights are protected moving forward.

Related Article: New York Subway Surfing Tragedy: Two 14-Year-Olds Fall To Their Deaths
In the new film, Sound of Freedom, releasing this week from Angel Studios, Mira Sorvino (Mighty Aphrodite, Romy and Micheles High School Reunion) co-stars as Katherine, wife of Tim Ballard (Jim Caviezel), a former government agent fighting for the release of abducted children. The film sheds light on the worldwide epidemic of human trafficking, a cause dear to the heart of the Academy Award-winning actress and former United Nations Goodwill ambassador.

Ive been an advocate against human trafficking since 2004, Sorvino said. I first discovered that slavery did not die with the end of legal slavery but is alive and well in the form of this illicit, multi-billion dollar industry, with 40 million people living as slaves today, the highest number in recorded history, and only .4% of them being discovered, rescued or exiting themselves.

The true story centers on Tim, who at times is torn between being a husband and father at home or remaining on the frontlines to rescue trafficked children. It is the couples love between each other and faith in God that compels them to continue.

Katherine challenged him to say that, Now that you know about this, now you have the opportunity to help these children youre asking me for an excuse not to? she said. When were called before God, what are we going to say? We had a calling and we didnt answer it? You need to answer this, even if it causes sacrifice to our family.

Beyond the Ballards, Sorvino says that the calling of God is for all people  to reach out and help that are oppressed and mistreated.

We have a soul that the Holy Spirit can affect, she said. It can call to us, God can call to us, Jesus can call to us. And when we hear that call, if we dont answer it, were turning away from God. I had a minister once who described sin as distance from God. And when we dont do what we need to do to help people in need if we see the need and really exposed to it and we look away  we are distancing ourselves from God in the most profound sense. And Jesus loved children more than anyone. He said, Whatsoever you do unto them, you do to me. Our call is to help these children.

Sorvino credits the performances in the film, including Caviezel, whose face registered the pain of the situation and the beautiful child actors who portrayed the real-life heroes who the film is based on.

That pain Ballard experienced may translate as a wakeup call for many viewers who were not aware of the depth of the issue. The answer, she says, is to call upon local, state, and federal governments to do more to toughen legislation against human trafficking as well as to address the root causes that cause children to either run away or be abducted and sold into slavery. Sorvino hopes viewers walk away knowing that even though they cant venture into the deepest darkest parts of the world, all of us in some way, small or great, can do something to end modern slavery in our time.

I think all of us can watch this movie and say, Well, he did something, we can do something, she said. All of us in our own way, small or great, can do something to end this modern slavery in our time, and help the survivors of it reclaim the lives that they were meant for.

Sound of Freedom, directed by Alejandro Monteverde and starring Jim Caviezel and Mira Sorvino, releases July 3 from Angel Studios. For more information or to order tickets, click here. Watch below for the extended interview with Mira Sorvino and DeWayne Hamby.
Cocoa prices surged to the highest in 46 years on the Intercontinental Exchange in London on Wednesday as bad weather in West Africa threatened production prospects for the main suppliers of the primary raw material used to make chocolate.



The benchmark September contract for cocoa in London gained more than 2% on Wednesday to 2,590 pounds per metric ton. The session high was the highest price since 1977 at 2,594 pounds.



Prices are rising in reaction to a tight market for cocoa beans, which are mainly produced in Ivory Coast and Ghana. Arrivals of cocoa at Ivory Coast ports for export are down nearly 5% this season.



The International Cocoa Organization (ICCO) widened this month its forecast for a global deficit on cocoa supply from 60,000 metric tons previously to 142,000 metric tons.



"It is the second consecutive season with a supply deficit," said Leonardo Rosseti, cocoa analyst at broker StoneX.



He said that the stocks-to-use ratio, an indicator of cocoa availability in the market, is expected to fall to 32.2%, the lowest since the 1984/85 season.



Meanwhile, above-average rains in Ivory Coast are causing flooding in some cocoa fields, potentially hurting the main crop that starts in October.



Rosseti said that the rains are also hurting the drying process for cocoa beans that have already been collected.



Refinitiv Commodities Research said it expects moderate to high rainfall in the West African cocoa belt over the next 10 days.



Cocoa prices rose in New York as well. The September contract gained 2.7% to $3,348 a metric ton, its highest in 7-1/2 years.



In other soft commodities, July raw sugar fell 0.46 cent, or 2%, at 22.57 cents per lb. Arabica coffee settled down 5 cents, or 3%, at $1.6195 per lb, while robusta coffee fell $99, or 3.6%, at $2,616 a metric ton.

Source: Reuters









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

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Nana continues to demand of me the education of the civilian populace on the military. The focus of this article is on the rank structure in the Ghana Armed Forces. This is basically modelled on British lines.



On commission after meeting all the requirements over a period of study, the trainee (Officer Cadet) becomes a Second- Lieutenant in the Army, or equivalent of Acting Sub-Lieutenant in the Navy, and Pilot Officer in the Air Force. The officer ranks go from Second Lieutenant  Lieutenant- Captain as Junior Officers.



Generally, subject to passing Promotion Examinations, it takes six years to become a Captain, and an additional five years to become a Major (eleven years in all).



Types of Commission



There are two kinds of courses/commission for officers. There is the Regular Career Course (RCC) for officers who train to become professional career officers. There is a second category of Short Service Commissioned (SSC) officers. These are professionals like doctors, lawyers, teachers, architects, engineers etc. They train to become officers to pursue their original course of study as military doctors, educationists, lawyers etc. They are commissioned either as lieutenants or captains, depending on the antedate given for the duration of their courses in the university.



There is also a Special Duties (SD) Course which is run together with the Short Service Commission, hence SSC/SD Course. The SD Course is for Non-commissioned officers who are commissioned into specific areas of specialization eg Weapons, Quartermaster (Logistics) and Drill and Duties. They do not go beyond the rank of Major.



From Captain, the officer moves into the Senior officer zone from Major- Lieutenant Colonel  Colonel. Promotion examinations are taken along the line for advancement or otherwise. It took me twenty-six (26) years to become a Colonel.



From Colonel, an officer advances to the zone of Generals. The General rank from Colonel is Brigadier-General (One Star)  Major-General (Two-Star)  Lieutenant-General (Three-Star) and General-of-the-Army (Four-Star). There are Naval and Air Force equivalents which space will not allow me to discuss for now.



Other Ranks (Non-Commissioned Officers)



With the Other Ranks, on passing out from the Training Centre the recruit starts as a Private. Progression from Private is to Lance-Corporal-Corporal-Sergeant- Staff Sergeant- Warrant Officer Class 2-Warrant Officer Class One. In recent times, some Americanisms have been added to the British ranks in Ghana. Hence there are Master Warrant Officers, Chief Warrant Officers and Service Warrant Officers etc we the older generation are trying to understand.



Appointments



The Ghana Armed Forces is made up of three Services; the Army, Navy and the Air Force. Each of them is headed by a Service Chief. The Army has the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), the Navy the Chief of Naval Staff (CNS) and the Air Force the Chief of Air Staff (CAS). They are all two-star Generals and equivalent. The Chief of the Defence Staff CDS) is the head of the Armed Forces of Ghana and is a three-Star General.



Discussion



Before independence in 1957, we had the Gold Coast Regiments. At independence, they became the Ghana Army. On 29th July 1959, an Act of Parliament laid by Osagyefo Dr Kwame Nkrumah established the Ghana Navy. The Ghana Air Force started on 24th July 1959 as a Flying Training School to complement the Army and Navy.



Though highly acknowledged as one of the leading UN Peacekeeping Nations in the world, domestically, the Ghana Armed Forces has a soiled image starting in 1966, when then Col Kotoka (later Lt Gen) and his Brigade Major, (later Lt Gen A.A Afrifa,) together with Police Commissioners Harley and Deku, in collusion with foreign powers, overthrew Ghanas First Republic of the Dr Nkrumah. In 1972, Col (later Gen) I.K Acheampong overthrew Dr K.A Busias Second Republic in a bloodless coup. In June 1979, a mutiny by junior ranks resulted in the overthrow of Lt. Gen. Akuffo's SMC 2, and installation of Flt Lt Rawlings as the Chairman of the Armed Forces Revolutionary Council. 1979 together with 31st December 1981 coup marked the bloodiest period in Ghanas history.



Indeed, at the time of writing 30th June 2023, the 41st Anniversary Church Service was held at the Holy Spirit Cathedral, Accra to commemorate the 41st anniversary of the abduction, murder and attempted incineration of three High Court judges and a retired Army Major.



In the field of international Peacekeeping, Ghana has done remarkably well. Lt Gen EA Erskine was the first African to command a UN Force. In 1978, he established the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL). Later the Force was commanded by another Ghanaian Lt Gen Seth Obeng. There have been many Deputy Force Commanders as well as top Staff appointments.



The Ghana Armed Forces continues to play a major role in Internal Security in support of the Police.



Leadership, lead! Fellow Ghanaians, WAKE UP!





Brig Gen Dan Frimpong (Rtd)



Former CEO, African Peace Support Trainers Association



Nairobi, Kenya





Council Chairman



Family Health University College



Accra



[email protected]









Source: Brig Gen Dan Frimpong (Rtd), Former CEO, African Peace Support Trainers Association, Nairobi, Kenya









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

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Tuesday, 27th June 2023 was another wonderful day when Team Kozie visited the Chief Imam of Adentan, Alhaji Mohammed Issahaq ahead of the Eid-ul-Adha celebration.



This forms part of Akosua Manu's outreach to the Muslim community in line with her commitment to make the New Patriotic Party of Adentan unite in prayer and supplications while seeking the blessings of Allah.



In addition, Akosua Manu also donated to the Chief Imam of Adentan and the Adentan Housing Down Central Mosque ahead of the Eid.



Akosua Manu has often emphasized that Adentan is great because of our diversity and Eid-ul-Adha is a great reminder of the need to sacrifice.



Building the spirit of sacrifice as a community and as a party is how we can thrive and prosper in 2024 and beyond.



The Chief Imam also called for unity for the party not just for the primaries but also for the general elections as that is critical to securing victory.



In attendance were key stakeholders of Nasara and the Nasara Executive Council.

Source: Peacefmonline com









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

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Minister for Information, Kojo Oppong Nkrumah has expressed satisfaction with the steady progress in implementing the Agenda 111 hospital project.



With the objective of bridging the healthcare inequality gap and strengthening the health system nationwide, Agenda 111 has been a cornerstone of the Akufo-Addo administration's vision for Ghana's healthcare sector. The project will provide hospitals to 101 special districts, along with regional and specialized hospitals.



During a press briefing on Thursday, June 29, 2023, in Trede in the Ashanti Region, Mr Oppong Nkrumah emphasized that the project is advancing steadily, with several milestones already achieved.



Currently, 88 out of the intended 111 health facilities are under construction, showcasing the government's commitment to improving healthcare infrastructure and accessibility across the country. Gradually, the governments grand vision of transforming the healthcare system of the country is coming to fruition and in due course, we all will witness this unprecedented achievement in the history of our Republic, he said.



He highlighted the meticulous planning and management of the project, which has been divided into eight zones, each consisting of an average of 14 sites. These sites have dedicated teams of consultants, including architects, civil engineers, structural engineers, mechanical engineers, and biomedical engineers, ensuring the smooth execution of the construction process.



Minister Oppong Nkrumah acknowledged the challenges in implementing the project but assured the public that the government remains steadfast in its commitment to delivering high-quality healthcare facilities.



The Minister also called on all stakeholders, including local beneficiary communities, traditional leaders, youth, and actors in the local health sector, to rally behind the project and provide their unwavering support. He stressed the importance of community engagement and collaboration to ensure the seamless integration and optimal functionality of the health facilities upon completion.



Agenda 111 envisions state-of-the-art healthcare facilities equipped with surgical theatres for maternity, obstetrics, and gynaecology, as well as male, female, pediatric, and isolation wards, among other essential amenities. Accommodation will also be provided for doctors, nurses, and other healthcare personnel within the hospital premises.

Source: Peacefmonline com









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

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President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo Addo Friday joined the Ghana Bar Association and the Judiciary to mark the 41st anniversary of the remembrance service for three murdered High Court Judges at the Holy Spirit Cathedral in Accra.



Chief Justice Gertrude Sackey Torkornoo and Justice of the Superior and Lower Court witnessed the ceremony.



The three murdered judges are justice Fred Poku Sarkodee, Mrs Justice Cecilia Koranteng-Addow and Justice Kwadwo Agyei Agyepong.



The three judges and a Retired Army Officer, Major Sam Acquah, were abducted on the night of curfew hours of June 30, 1982, and brutally and savagely murdered at Bundase Range in the Accra Plains.



Preaching the sermon, Very Reverend Father Dr. Ebenezer Akesseh, Parish Priest, Christ the King Parish, said lawyers should see their profession or vocation as a calling, which meant that they were giving themselves away.



Father Akesseh described a martyr as a witness adding, the highest form of a martyr is shedding ones blood.



Yours may not be shedding of your blood but insults and threats and false accusations and may be no promotion. But find comfort in the words of Jesus Christ that blessed are you who are persecuted and falsely accused.



According to Father Akesseh, martyrs of Christianity led to the growth and flourishing of the faith.



He said the suffering of the three judges should also lead lawyers and judges to witness in their profession with integrity and resilience.



We are celebrating martyrs of Justice; it means we acknowledge that they have crusaded for justice and in implementing justice, they lost their lives.



The Parish Priest urged lawyers and judges to hunger and thirst for righteousness and seek wisdom for their work.



He also appealed to the judges and lawyers to pay attention to the dictates of their conscience.





Do not ignore the dictates of your conscience. Keep your conscience clear before man and God. 



Three Justice of the High Court, Justice Charles Gyamfi Danquah, Justice Akua Sarpomaa Amoah and Justice Kwasi Anokye Gyimah read the biographies of the murdered Judges.



Chief Justice Torkornoo and Mr Godfred Yeboah Dame, Minister of Justice and Attorney General, read the first and second bible readings respectively.



Cantoribus Chorale treated the gathering to melodious songs.









Source: GNA









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

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Mr Musk has increased his focus on China, a key market for Tesla - Chesnot/Getty Images

Tesla delivered a record number of vehicles in the second quarter of this year after slashing prices in an effort to stoke demand.

The carmaker, run by tech billionaire Elon Musk, handed over 466,000 vehicles in the three months to June.

Analysts had expected Tesla to deliver 445,000 cars, according to polling by Refinitiv.

It came as Mr Musk battled fresh controversy at Twitter, another of his businesses, after limiting the number of tweets that can be viewed to 10,000 per day for paying users and a maximum of 1,000 for others.

Mr Musk sought to defend the decision by claiming it would help people disconnect from the internet, writing: You awake from a deep trance, step away from the phone to see your friends & family.

Tesla has nearly doubled its numbers since a year ago, when it delivered 254,695 vehicles.

The worlds most valuable automaker is expected to hit record sales again in China, its second-biggest market after North America.

Tesla has been fending off stiff competition in China from market leader BYD.

The company said total production rose 86pc in the past year to nearly 480,000 vehicles.

Earlier this year Tesla cut its global prices by up to 20pc after missing Wall Street delivery estimates for 2022.

Discounts for vehicles in inventory were raised to a $1,600 (1,260) to $7,500 range and all Model 3s were made eligible for full federal tax credits of $7,500 starting in June in the US.

Tesla delivered 446,915 Model 3 compact cars and Model Y sport-utility vehicles, as well as 19,225 of its Model S and Model X premium vehicles.

Deliveries are closely monitored by markets as they represent the closest indicator of sales.

Mr Musk visited China at the end of May as the country becomes an increasing area of focus for Teslas expansion.

In a whirlwind two-day trip, he met senior Chinese government officials including the highest-ranking vice premier.

Photos of his visit to Teslas Shanghai factory  the automakers biggest production hub  showing him holding up a Giga Shanghai sign alongside hundreds of employees.

Shanghai officials welcomed Tesla to increase its investments and expand business in the city.

Mr Musk also owns Twitter, which is banned in China but accessible to some users through a virtual private network.

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.
Presidential candidate hopeful of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) Hon. Alan Kyerematen is set to engage Party delegates in series of cluster meetings throughout the country as part of his robust campaign tour to garner support for his presidential bid.



The former Trade and Industry Minister will engage every single delegate of the Party to detail his Great Transformational Plan (GTP) ahead of the Partys November 4, 2023 Presidential primaries.



A press release, issued by Hon Yaw Buaben Asamoa, Press Secretary to Hon Kyerematen, announcing the tour said, the ground-breaking cluster delegates meetings will see the presidential-hopeful engaging with over 200,000 NPP delegates.



The cluster constituency delegates meetings will also showcase Hon Kyerematen's commitment to sharing ideas with the people and working together with them for victory in the November primaries and the national elections in 2024.



"This innovation is expected to change the dynamics of Aspirant and Delegate interactions, giving diverse delegates from different constituencies a unique opportunity to meet, fraternize, and share experiences from differing perspectives", the release said.



The cluster engagements will commence on Monday, 3rd July 2023, from the Greater Accra Region and from there move to the other regions.

The cluster meetings with delegates is fashioned along constituencies with contiguous borders and common characteristics.

This strategic arrangement aims to maximize interaction and cooperation among party members.



They will help delegates and the presidential hopeful together, "devise winning strategies towards the A4P goal of building a strong partnership for power between the NPP and the public," the release stated.



It added that "participation in the durbars is expected to lift the spirits of the delegates and the rank and file of the Party, renewing hope that 'Together, We Will Win' the 2024 General and Presidential Elections to transform the fortunes of Ghana."



Alan Kyerematens profile as a former Trade and Industry Minister adds weight to his bid as a presidential candidate hopeful for the NPP, as majority of party members see him as the best candidate to the 2024 presidential elections.

Source: Peacefmonline









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The Accra High Court has adopted an out-of-court settlement agreement filed by dancehall artiste, Charles Nii Armah Mensah also known as Shatta Wale, and his former Manager Lawrence Asiamah Hanson, known as Bulldog, in a defamation suit.



The lawyers from both sides informed the court about the settlement terms before the hearing of the case could start.



At the last court sitting on June 13, 2023, lawyers for Shatta Wale prayed the court to grant them a two-week adjournment to enable them to file the terms of settlement, a request, that was subsequently granted by the Court presided over by Justice Joseph Agyemang Adu Owusu On Tuesday, June 27, 2023.



Dr Justice Srem Sai, Lawyer for Lawrence Asiamah Hanson also known as Bulldog, told the court that the parties have completed the terms of settlement in the same field.



The lawyer consequently prayed the court to adopt the settlement terms, between the parties and same be adopted by the court as a consent judgement.



Meanwhile, Major Selasie Atuwo, lawyer for Shatta Wale, informed the Court of the death of Madam Cynthia Quarcoo, a managing partner at the firm.



Ms. Quarcoo is said to have passed on last Tuesday after a short illness.



Bulldog sued Shatta Wale following a publication he made on his social media page last November accusing him of the murder of Fennec Okyere who was the Manager of musician Kwaw Kese.



Shatta Wale also made other allegations against Bulldog. Bulldog claims the series of allegations against him were malicious and defamatory and sought damages against Shatta Wale.

Source: GBC









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

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BALTIMORE  Gunfire erupted at a block party in Baltimore on Sunday  killing two people, wounding 28 and leaving an extensive crime scene that marred the U.S. holiday weekend, police said. Three of the wounded were in critical condition.

Baltimore Police Department Acting Commissioner Richard Worley told reporters there were a total of 30 victims during a press conference at the scene.

The shooting took place just after 12:30 a.m. at a block party in the Brooklyn Homes area in the southern part of the city, Worley said.

The shooting comes amid gatherings around the country leading up to the July Fourth holiday. Elsewhere, a shooting in Kansas left seven people with gunshot wounds and two more victims hospitalized after being trampled as people rushed out of a nightclub early Sunday morning, police there said.

Nine victims were transported by ambulance and 20 victims walked into area hospitals with injuries from the shooting, Worley said.

Nineteen of those victims were treated in the emergency department at MedStar Harbor Hospital, according to hospital spokesperson Debra Schindler. Nine of the critically injured patients were stabilized and transferred to Baltimore trauma centers. All but one of the 19 victims sent to MedStar have been released.

As is protocol following any walk-in victim of violence, the hospital went on immediate lock-down to secure the campus and ensure the safety of all patients and associates, Schindler said in a statement. Multiple critically injured patients were evaluated and triaged simultaneously by clinical staff, while hospital security managed the throng of family members that gathered in and outside of the emergency department.

A police officer stands in the area of a mass shooting incident in the Southern District of Baltimore, Sunday, July 2, 2023. Police say a number of people were killed and dozens were wounded in a mass shooting that took place during a block party just after midnight. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)AP

Meanwhile, dozen victims were sent to be treated at R Adams Cowley Shock Trauma Center and four others were sent to the University of Maryland Medical Centers Pediatric Emergency Department, according to University of Maryland Medical System spokesman Michael Schwartzberg.

An 18-year-old woman was found dead at the scene and a 20-year-old man was pronounced dead at a hospital shortly after, police said.

I want those who are responsible to hear me, and hear me very clearly, Mayor Brandon Scott said at the scene. We will not stop until we find you, and we will find you. Until then, I hope that every single breath you take, that you think about the lives that you took, think about the lives that you impacted here tonight.

No arrests were made immediately after the shooting. Scott asked anyone with information to come forward to assist investigators locate the cowards who were responsible for the shooting.

Authorities said the crime scene was extensive and that it will take some time for detectives to work it.

Treat this as if it were your family, Scott said. How you would want people to treat it if you were mourning, if this was your neighborhood, if this was an event in your community that this happened at. We want you to treat it that way because thats how we have to treat each other as Baltimoreans.

Hours after the shooting, a number of officers remained on the scene, working behind police tape amid densely packed two-story housing blocks. Folding tables and plastic cups were scattered around the scene, apparently left behind when people ran from the gunshots.

Lakell Nelson said there had been several false alarms of people mistaking the sounds of fireworks for gunfire earlier in the night while she was at the block party. However, by the time she was getting to her car, the actual shooting began.

The shots were just going on and on and on, she said.

Thats when two young women approached her and said theyd been shot, with one woman showing how a bullet had gone through her shorts.

A tow truck operator removes a vehicle with multiple bullet holes near the area of a mass shooting incident in the Southern District of Baltimore, Sunday, July 2, 2023. Police say a number of people were killed and dozens were wounded in a mass shooting that took place during a block party just after midnight. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)AP

Nelson said she told the women to get in the car and she sped through red lights to get to the nearest hospital.

When I pulled up to the door of the hospital, my car was almost getting ready to be inside the hospital, because I was determined to get those babies in that hospital, Nelson said.

The violence comes as federal prosecutors in Baltimore this week touted their efforts to reduce violent crime in the city. Police have reported nearly 130 homicides and close to 300 shootings so far this year, though thats down from the same time last year. Authorities have vowed to crack down aggressively on repeat violent offenders.

Julio Cortez and Holly Ramer of The Associated Press wrote this story.

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Next possible airplane travel disruption: 5G wireless
By Lana Ferguson, The Dallas Morning News (TNS)

A former American Idol contestant from Plano, Texas, was sentenced to eight years of probation after accepting a plea deal Friday on a sexual assault charge out of Grapevine.

Ronald Kombo Bultongez, then 25, turned himself in to police in 2021 after he was accused of sexually assaulting a 16-year-old girl over the course of several months in 2020 and 2021. The age of consent in Texas is 17.

According to an affidavit, the teen reported the sexual abuse months before Bultongezs arrest and told authorities that on at least one occasion, he assaulted her after she told him no.

Bultongez did not use a condom during the assaults and bought the girl several Plan B pills, the affidavit says, and he also told her not to tell anyone about their relationship or that hed go to jail.

Bultongez was initially charged with four felony counts of sexual assault of a child, but three of the counts were waived, according to Tarrant County court records.

Bultongezs attorney, Christy Jack, told the Dallas Observer that her client accepted the plea deal and sentence.

After lengthy negotiations with prosecutors, our legal team reached an agreement where our client received eight years probation, Jack said in a written statement. During the hearing on Friday, the complainant was given the opportunity to say her piece. We believe our client to be a man of character and this agreement avoided a trial and gave closure to everyone involved.

Bultongez appeared on the 2018 season of American Idol, making it to the top 24. He released a single weeks before his arrest titled Put Myself First.

The 27-year-old is still producing music, according to his social media profiles, including on Instagram where he has 17,300 followers.

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Ex-priest pleads guilty to sexual abuse of a 72nd victim

Cumberland County man to serve 1 to 2 years in prison for abuse of foster children
PHILADELPHIA  Moms for Liberty, a parental rights group that has sought to take over school boards in multiple states, is looking to expand those efforts across the country and to other education posts in 2024 and beyond. The effort is setting up for a clash with teachers unions and others on the left who view the group as a toxic presence in public schools.

The groups co-founder, Tiffany Justice, said during its annual summit over the weekend in Philadelphia that Moms for Liberty will use its political action committee next year to engage in school board races nationwide. It also will start endorsing at the state board level and elected superintendents.

Her comments confirm that Moms for Liberty, which has spent its first two years inflaming school board meetings with aggressive complaints about instruction on systemic racism and gender identity in the classroom, is developing a larger strategy to overhaul education infrastructure across the country.

As the group has amassed widespread conservative support and donor funding, its focus on education ensures that even as voters turn their attention to the 2024 presidential race, school board elections will remain some of the most contentious political fights next year.

Moms for Liberty started with three Florida moms upset with COVID-19 restrictions in 2021, but has quickly ascended as a national player in Republican politics. Its support for school choice and the fundamental rights of parents to direct their childrens education has drawn allies such as Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, a leading GOP presidential contender, and the conservative Heritage Foundation.

The group has been labeled an extremist organization by the Southern Poverty Law Center for allegedly harassing community members, advancing anti-LGBTQ+ misinformation and fighting to scrub diverse and inclusive material from lesson plans.

Justice said in an interview that she and her co-founder, Tina Descovich, were two moms who had faith in American parents to take back the public education system in America and that they fully intend on reclaiming and reforming that system.

Demonstrators gather outside the Moms for Liberty meeting in Philadelphia, Friday, June 30, 2023. (AP Photo/Nathan Howard)AP

So far, the group has had mixed success at getting its preferred candidates elected. In 2022, slightly more than half of the 500 school board candidates it endorsed across the country won,. In the spring of 2023, fewer than one-third of the nearly 30 candidates it endorsed in Wisconsin were elected.

Focusing on state-level candidates could give Moms for Liberty an opportunity to assert its influence on some of the positions that have more control in determining curriculum, said Jon Valant, a senior fellow at the Brookings Institution who has studied education policy.

A close partnership with the conservative training organization the Leadership Institute and added money from a growing donor base also could help the Moms for Liberty run more electable candidates and help them win in 2024.

Monty Floyd, vice chair of the Moms for Liberty chapter in Hernando County, Florida, knows what its like to have the groups support in a political campaign. He ran for school board in 2022 and received the groups endorsement, as well as $250 from its Florida-based PAC.

Floyd lost that race but plans to run again in 2026, he told The Associated Press at the summit. He looks forward to seeing how the groups political influence grows and said that even more than the money, the national network of Moms for Liberty provides a great resource to a candidate.

The wealth of knowledge they have and the network of support and just the advocacy tips that were learning from the speakers today, he said. They have good advice to give. So you kind of learn a lot about what you can improve in your messaging.

Moms for Liberty may face obstacles, however, as its rising national presence has driven a countermovement of activists who oppose it, Valant said.

Moms for Liberty co-founders Tiffany Justice speaks at their meeting, in Philadelphia, Friday, June 30, 2023. (AP Photo/Matt Rourke)AP

Randi Weingarten, president of the American Federation of Teachers, said she thinks groups such as Moms for Liberty have created more action and more energy among teachers unions.

We have 41 new units that we have organized as the AFT this year. Weve never had that, she said. She said the union would do what we have to do during elections to show the contrast between its endorsed candidates and Moms for Liberty candidates.

Beyond unions, Moms for Liberty is likely to face opposition from grassroots groups and voters who just dont agree with their vision of what public education should be, Valant said.

Martha Cooney, a Pennsylvania educator who was one of about 100 protesters dancing and holding signs outside the summit Saturday afternoon, agreed. She said that as Moms for Liberty tries to assert more political power, she and others will continue to stand in its way.

They are a very small minority who are trying to act like they represent this whole nation, and they do not, Cooney said.

Moms for Liberty did not answer questions on which races it would focus on in 2024, besides making it clear that it would not endorse in legislative races or the presidential election.

But even as the group says it will not get involved in the White House race, Republican candidates have tried to harness Moms for Libertys influence and broad network of more than 120,000 members in 45 states to woo its voting bloc and benefit their primary campaigns.

Five GOP candidates gave speeches during the gathering in Philadelphia, which ended Sunday. They included DeSantis and former President Donald Trump. The rivals tried to outflank each other with claims that woke ideology had overtaken education and that pronouns and critical race theory needed to be struck from classrooms.

I think moms are the key political force for this 2024 cycle, DeSantis said in his address to attendees Friday.

Other Republican presidential candidates who appeared at the summit included former U.N. Ambassador Nikki Haley, former Arkansas Gov. Asa Hutchinson and biotech entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy, who brought his wife and two children to the stage Saturday. He pledged to prioritize parents rights and shutter the U.S. Department of Education if elected.

The membership of this organization is just a small tip of the iceberg of a broader pro-parent movement, pro-children movement in our country, Ramaswamy told reporters at the summit. And so how important is that? You better believe its pretty darn important.

Ali Swenson of The Associated Press wrote this story.

The Associated Press receives support from several private foundations to enhance its explanatory coverage of elections and democracy. See more about APs democracy initiative here. The AP is solely responsible for all content.

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Storms forecast to arrive over the next few hours, hang around for much of the week

Baltimore block party shooting leaves 2 dead, 28 injured: police
The 1900 block of Boas Street in Harrisburg was closed Sunday afternoon as emergency crews dealt with a house fire.

Calls for a fire in the residential neighborhood came in shortly after 2 p.m., and crews were able to bring in the incident under control within 10 to 15 minutes, according to Harrisburg Deputy Fire Chief Glenn Sattizahn.

Damage, including charred beams and broken sections of roof, was visible on the third story of the home, where the fire is believed to have started. The first and second floors sustained smoke and water damage as well as damage from firefighters searching for areas where fire may have spread, Sattizahn said.

All of the buildings occupants appear to have made it out safely, according to resident Ian Hewston. Six people lived in the home, Hewston said, in addition to Hewstons cat, who was also unharmed. Hewston was standing on the sidewalk holding the cat at the scene.

Sattizahn said firefighters were pretty confident that the fire was electrical in nature, caused by an overloaded circuit.

The Red Cross will be assisting the temporarily displaced residents; Sattizahn said he believed the home could be repaired and reoccupied.
By Nancy Murray

The PA House has passed a budget that includes a $170 million cut to intellectual disability/autism (ID/A) services. Unfortunately, many in the legislature see this as a savings because the amount being cut equals the amount not spent in the previous fiscal year.
Key Insights

Maxis Berhad's estimated fair value is RM3.69 based on 2 Stage Free Cash Flow to Equity

Maxis Berhad's RM4.10 share price indicates it is trading at similar levels as its fair value estimate

Analyst price target for MAXIS is RM4.11, which is 11% above our fair value estimate

In this article we are going to estimate the intrinsic value of Maxis Berhad (KLSE:MAXIS) by taking the expected future cash flows and discounting them to their present value. One way to achieve this is by employing the Discounted Cash Flow (DCF) model. Before you think you won't be able to understand it, just read on! It's actually much less complex than you'd imagine.

We would caution that there are many ways of valuing a company and, like the DCF, each technique has advantages and disadvantages in certain scenarios. Anyone interested in learning a bit more about intrinsic value should have a read of the Simply Wall St analysis model.

See our latest analysis for Maxis Berhad

The Method

We are going to use a two-stage DCF model, which, as the name states, takes into account two stages of growth. The first stage is generally a higher growth period which levels off heading towards the terminal value, captured in the second 'steady growth' period. To start off with, we need to estimate the next ten years of cash flows. Where possible we use analyst estimates, but when these aren't available we extrapolate the previous free cash flow (FCF) from the last estimate or reported value. We assume companies with shrinking free cash flow will slow their rate of shrinkage, and that companies with growing free cash flow will see their growth rate slow, over this period. We do this to reflect that growth tends to slow more in the early years than it does in later years.

Generally we assume that a dollar today is more valuable than a dollar in the future, and so the sum of these future cash flows is then discounted to today's value:

10-year free cash flow (FCF) estimate

2024 2025 2026 2027 2028 2029 2030 2031 2032 2033 Levered FCF (MYR, Millions) RM2.24b RM2.34b RM2.23b RM2.18b RM2.18b RM2.19b RM2.23b RM2.28b RM2.34b RM2.41b Growth Rate Estimate Source Analyst x7 Analyst x7 Analyst x1 Est @ -1.99% Est @ -0.32% Est @ 0.85% Est @ 1.66% Est @ 2.23% Est @ 2.64% Est @ 2.92% Present Value (MYR, Millions) Discounted @ 10.0% RM2.0k RM1.9k RM1.7k RM1.5k RM1.4k RM1.2k RM1.1k RM1.1k RM994 RM931

("Est" = FCF growth rate estimated by Simply Wall St)

Present Value of 10-year Cash Flow (PVCF) = RM14b

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 3.6%. We discount the terminal cash flows to today's value at a cost of equity of 10.0%.

Terminal Value (TV)= FCF 2033  (1 + g)  (r  g) = RM2.4b (1 + 3.6%)  (10.0% 3.6%) = RM39b

Present Value of Terminal Value (PVTV)= TV / (1 + r)10= RM39b ( 1 + 10.0%)10= RM15b

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 RM29b. To get the intrinsic value per share, we divide this by the total number of shares outstanding. Compared to the current share price of RM4.1, 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.

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 Maxis 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 10.0%, which is based on a levered beta of 0.800. Beta is a measure of a stock's volatility, compared to the market as a whole. We get our beta from the industry average beta of globally comparable companies, with an imposed limit between 0.8 and 2.0, which is a reasonable range for a stable business.

SWOT Analysis for Maxis Berhad

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 Wireless Telecom market.

Expensive based on P/E ratio and estimated fair value.

Opportunity

Annual earnings are forecast to grow for the next 3 years.

Threat

Dividends are not covered by earnings and cashflows.

Annual earnings are forecast to grow slower than the Malaysian market.

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?" If a company grows at a different rate, or if its cost of equity or risk free rate changes sharply, the output can look very different. For Maxis Berhad, there are three further aspects you should consider:

Risks: For instance, we've identified 2 warning signs for Maxis Berhad (1 shouldn't be ignored) you should be aware of. Future Earnings: How does MAXIS's growth rate compare to its peers and the wider market? Dig deeper into the analyst consensus number for the upcoming years by interacting with our free analyst growth expectation chart. Other Solid Businesses: Low debt, high returns on equity and good past performance are fundamental to a strong business. Why not explore our interactive list of stocks with solid business fundamentals to see if there are other companies you may not have considered!

PS. Simply Wall St updates its DCF calculation for every Malaysian stock every day, so if you want to find the intrinsic value of any other stock just search here.

Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com.



This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned.

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The most expensive four-card event of the 2023 World Series of Poker schedule at the Horseshoe and Paris Las Vegas is one step closer to crowning a champion. Out of a massive field of 200 entries in Event #71: $50,000 Pot-Limit Omaha High Roller, only 11 players remain in contention for the biggest slice of the $9,550,000 prize pool.

To put things in perspective, the 33 late entries at the start of Day 2 ensured that the High Roller contest gathered a field bigger than the previous two editions in 2021 and 2022 combined, further showcasing the tremendous growth in many mixed game and high-stakes tournaments during this ongoing festival in Sin City.

When another 12 levels of 40 minutes had concluded, not only had the money bubble burst but the unofficial final table was almost reached. Four bracelet winners remain in contention to potentially increase their tally and they are led by Tyler Smith, who held the top spot for an extended period and bagged up 14,000,000. Fellow bracelet winners Isaac Haxton (2,500,000) and Ian Matakis (2,150,000) can be found at the bottom of the leaderboard.

Matakis has had a memorable 2023 WSOP already as he captured his first WSOP gold bracelet in Online Event #2: $500 No-Limit Hold'em Bankroll Builder at the start of the series. He then finished seventh just one day ago in Event #65: $5,000 No-Limit Hold'em (6-Handed) before max late-registering this event. Known under his moniker "potamophobia" during the start of the global pandemic, his fear of rivers may only be challenged by the fear of an opponent raising the pot behind.

Ian Matakis

Second in chips behind Smith is the always dangerous Jesse Lonis, one of the rising young players on the international live poker circuit with a WSOP online domestic bracelet to his name from one year ago. He was involved in plenty of big pots thanks to his aggressive playing style, undeterred by the fact that this is his first event with such a high price tag. Lonis already has 10th and 9th place finishes in Freezeout tournaments during the 2023 WSOP and will be aiming to further improve on those finishing positions.

Several PLO specialists remain in contention such as Elias Harala (6,575,000), James Park (4,325,000), Adam Hendrix (3,500,000) and Jonas Kronwitter (3,225,000).

Seat Assignments for the Final Day

Casino Table Seat Player Country Chip Count Big Blinds Horseshoe 1 2 Danny Hannawa United States 6,125,000 25 Horseshoe 1 3 Tyler Smith United States 14,000,000 56 Horseshoe 1 4 Jonas Kronwitter Germany 3,225,000 13 Horseshoe 1 5 Kabeelan Rajamurthy Malaysia 5,400,000 22 Horseshoe 1 6 Anthony Marsico United States 3,525,000 14 Horseshoe 1 8 James Park United Kingdom 4,325,000 17 Horseshoe 2 1 Jesse Lonis United States 8,650,000 35 Horseshoe 2 3 Ian Matakis United States 2,150,000 9 Horseshoe 2 4 Isaac Haxton United States 2,500,000 10 Horseshoe 2 7 Elias Harala Finland 6,575,000 26 Horseshoe 2 8 Adam Hendrix United States 3,500,000 14

The penultimate tournament day started with a short delay in order to accommodate all late entrants with all but one open seat getting sold. Some of those jumping in at the last minute barely lasted one full level with Eric Rabl and Gjergj Sinishtaj bowing out in the very first hand. Other big names such as Phil Hellmuth, Jason Koon, Erick Lindgren, Josh Arieh, and Bryce Yockey followed their path to the rail soon after.

Often involved in the action was Lonis, who notched up several knockouts along the way and was only overtaken by Smith on the final six tables. As the money bubble drew closer, several big names of the international poker scene all came short of a cash price including Shaun Deeb, Chance Kornuth, 2022 runner-up Dash Dudley, Day 1 chip leader Alex Foxen, and James Obst. The latter was ousted by Smith when the Aussie called off a river shove with two pair and the busted nut flush draw. Zeki Soyirgaz was eliminated by Danny Hannawa on the same table shortly after to let the bubble burst.

Sam Soverel was knocked out by Lonis in a large pot for a min-cash before a wild roller coaster ride on the final three tables for Lonis followed, after which he ultimately came out with a big stack once more.

Defending champion Robert Cowen fell in 20th place for $103,093 and Smith then won the biggest pot of the tournament so far when he rivered a flush against Aaron Katz, who received the same payout as Cowen.

Notables to bow out thereafter included Anton Morgenstern, Jared Bleznick, Krasimir Yankov, Matthew Wantman, and Eelis Parssinen. This locked up a cash prize of at least $157,963 for all survivors and the top three finishers will earn seven-figure paydays with $2,303,017 reserved for the eventual champion.

The final 11 players will return to the side feature tables of the Horseshoe Event Center on Sunday, July 2nd, 2023, at 1 p.m. local time. Recommending blinds in level 25 will be 125,000-250,000 with a big blind ante of 250,000. One further redraw awaits with nine hopefuls remaining. All those still in contention by then will also receive an additional eight time eight time bank extensions.

Stay tuned right here on PokerNews for the conclusion of this record-setting $50,000 High Roller.
The big bets will be flying when Event #73: $2,500 Mixed Big Bet, comes to town Saturday, July 1st 4:00 p.m. at Horseshoe and Paris Las Vegas . A full menu of no-limit and pot-limit varietals will lure a field of the biggest names in big-bet games, and will require a Swiss Army knife of skills to triumph.

Players will navigate a rotation of big bet flop or draw games Big O, No-Limit Holdem, No-Limit 2-7 Single Draw, Pot-Limit Omaha 8 or Better, No-Limit Five Card Draw High, Pot-Limit Omaha, and Pot-Limit 2-7 Triple Draw, over three days of action.

Last years event was won by 22-year-old Lok Chan. He battled through a record field of 281 to capture his first WSOP bracelet and the top prize of $144,338.

When I turned 17 or 18, I would go to Taiwan and play live tournaments and I would play cash online, Chan said after the event. This is my first time coming to Las Vegas for the WSOP. I was lucky enough to stay alive and have a chance to get a bracelet.

With four cashes already in 2023, Chan should be in great form to defend his title. In addition to Chan, last year's field boasted bracelet winners Rami Boukai, Galen Hall, Patrick Leonard, Renan Bruschi, Richard Ashby, Scott Bohlman, Keith Lehr, Michael Savakinas, and Naoya Kihara all finishing in the top 20, so whoever hoists the bracelet will have survived a top-level gauntlet of big-bet masters.

$2,500 Mixed Big Bet History

Year Entries Winner Country Prize (USD) 2022 281 Lok Chan Hong Kong $144,338 2021 212 Denis Strebkov Russia $117,898 2019 218 Loren Klein United States $127,808 2018 205 Scott Bohlman United States $122,138 2017 179 Jens Lakemeier Germany $112,232

Players will begin 4:00 p.m. local time with 35,000 chips and play ten 60-minute levels with 15-minute breaks every two levels. Two re-entries will be available to players should they bust before registration closes at the end of Level 8.

Be sure to stay tuned to PokerNews for full coverage of this inaugural event as we begin the road to the crowning of another champion at the 2023 World Series Of Poker.
With nine levels of play concluded (ten levels of play were initially scheduled but were reduced to nine after the start time was pushed back due to the Colossus), we can confirm a total of 377 players entered World Series of Poker Event #: 73 $2,500 Mixed Big Bet at Horseshoe and Paris Las Vegas, smashing last years record of 281 by nearly 100 players.

The field is led by Erick Lindgren with 350,000, who shared a laugh with fellow bracelet winner, Yueqi Zhu, on their similar starting hand selection. Many other notable names will carry healthy stacks into Day 2, as well, including, Dimitrios Michailidis (330,200), Julio Belluscio (328,800) and three-time bracelet winner, Chad Eveslage (301,300), all crossing the 300,000 chip mark and rounding out the top four.

Chad Eveslage

Ren Lin (255,000), Richard Bai (218,000), and Maximilian Schindler (203,800) are not far behind, either, each bagging more than 200,000 in chips.

Ren Lin

With players able to re-enter up to two times, the record field of 377 entries created a total prize pool of $836,600, with 57 players earning at least $4,021, and $190,240 and the coveted gold bracelet going to the eventual champ.

Prize Pool and Payouts

Place Prize Place Prize 1 $190,240 11-Oct $11,398 2 $117,577 17-Dec $8,948 3 $78,939 18-23 $7,199 4 $54,118 24-29 $5,938 5 $37,901 30-35 $5,027 6 $27,130 36-41 $4,713 7 $19,857 42-49 $4,398 9-Aug $14,870 50-57 $4,021

As expected, action was fast and aggressive in the big bet games, as demonstrated in this hand by Josh Arieh, and this one that sent him back to the registration cage for the first time.

Craig Chait was an early elimination, as was Poker Hall of Famer, Daniel Negreanu.

The remaining 146 survivors will return on Sunday, July 2nd at 2 p.m., positioning themselves to take home the much desired gold bracelet.

As always, stay tuned to PokerNews for continued coverage of this live event.

End of Day 1 Top Ten Chip Counts
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Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg took apart Gov. Ron DeSantis (R-FL) for bragging about taking away LGBTQ+ rights.

Video:

Sec. Buttigieg said on CNNs State Of The Union:

Im going to choose my words carefully, partly because Im appearing as secretary, so I cant talk about campaigns, and Im going to leave aside the strangeness of trying to prove your manhood by putting up a video that splices images of you in between oiled up shirtless bodybuilders, and just get to the bigger issue that is on my mind whenever I see this stuff in the policy space, which is, again, who are you trying to help? Who are you trying to make better off? And what public policy problems do you get up in the morning thinking about how to solve?

You know, what were focused as an administration on how to get things done to make people better off. I spent my week traveling around the country to places that are benefiting from infrastructure funding. We were in Appalachia, an eastern Kentucky community thats been wiped out by floods completely and were bringing them highway funding thats going to help them not only improve the road, but improve the dam and protect them from floods in the future. A few weeks ago, we were in North Dakota where there was a railroad crossing that was a community headache for decades. And thanks to President Bidens bipartisan infrastructure funds, we finally have the resources to do something about it, and were going to make that better and have it not be a problem holding back first responders.

These are the kinds of problems that most of us got into government, politics, and public service in order to work on. And I just dont understand the mentality of somebody who gets up in the morning, thinking that hes going to prove his worth by competing over who can make life hardest for a hard-hit community, that is already so vulnerable in America.

Buttigieg had to be careful with his remarks because the Hatch Act prohibits government officials from using the official position to engage in election activities, but he made his point clear.

Republicans like Ron DeSantis are running on making life harder for people who already have it difficult in the United States. The Republicans arent running on making peoples lives better. The GOP is trying to divide America down to the nub so that they can win elections with far-right extremism.

It is almost too easy to take down DeSantis and his failing culture war campaign of failure, but the question that voters need to ask themselves is what kind of government do they want.

Do they want a government that helps people, or hurts them?

The answer to that question will go a long way toward determining who wins in 2024.
Key Insights

The projected fair value for United Parcel Service is US$150 based on 2 Stage Free Cash Flow to Equity

Current share price of US$179 suggests United Parcel Service is potentially trading close to its fair value

Our fair value estimate is 21% lower than United Parcel Service's analyst price target of US$190

How far off is United Parcel Service, Inc. (NYSE:UPS) from its intrinsic value? Using the most recent financial data, we'll take a look at whether the stock is fairly priced by estimating the company's future cash flows and discounting them to their present value. Our analysis will employ the Discounted Cash Flow (DCF) model. There's really not all that much to it, even though it might appear quite complex.

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 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 United Parcel Service

What's The Estimated Valuation?

We are going to use a two-stage DCF model, which, as the name states, takes into account two stages of growth. The first stage is generally a higher growth period which levels off heading towards the terminal value, captured in the second 'steady growth' period. To start off with, we need to estimate the next ten years of cash flows. Where possible we use analyst estimates, but when these aren't available we extrapolate the previous free cash flow (FCF) from the last estimate or reported value. We assume companies with shrinking free cash flow will slow their rate of shrinkage, and that companies with growing free cash flow will see their growth rate slow, over this period. We do this to reflect that growth tends to slow more in the early years than it does in later years.

Generally we assume that a dollar today is more valuable than a dollar in the future, and so the sum of these future cash flows is then discounted to today's value:

10-year free cash flow (FCF) forecast

2024 2025 2026 2027 2028 2029 2030 2031 2032 2033 Levered FCF ($, Millions) US$8.70b US$8.64b US$9.41b US$9.08b US$8.93b US$8.89b US$8.91b US$8.98b US$9.09b US$9.22b Growth Rate Estimate Source Analyst x13 Analyst x7 Analyst x2 Analyst x1 Est @ -1.66% Est @ -0.53% Est @ 0.26% Est @ 0.82% Est @ 1.21% Est @ 1.48% Present Value ($, Millions) Discounted @ 8.3% US$8.0k US$7.4k US$7.4k US$6.6k US$6.0k US$5.5k US$5.1k US$4.8k US$4.4k US$4.2k

("Est" = FCF growth rate estimated by Simply Wall St)

Present Value of 10-year Cash Flow (PVCF) = US$59b

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 8.3%.

Terminal Value (TV)= FCF 2033  (1 + g)  (r  g) = US$9.2b (1 + 2.1%)  (8.3% 2.1%) = US$153b

Present Value of Terminal Value (PVTV)= TV / (1 + r)10= US$153b ( 1 + 8.3%)10= US$69b

The total value is the sum of cash flows for the next ten years plus the discounted terminal value, which results in the Total Equity Value, which in this case is US$129b. In the final step we divide the equity value by the number of shares outstanding. Relative to the current share price of US$179, 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.

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. 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 United Parcel Service 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 8.3%, which is based on a levered beta of 1.036. 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 United Parcel Service

Strength

Debt is well covered by earnings and cashflows.

Dividends are covered by earnings and cash flows.

Weakness

Earnings growth over the past year underperformed the Logistics industry.

Dividend is low compared to the top 25% of dividend payers in the Logistics market.

Opportunity

Annual earnings are forecast to grow for the next 3 years.

Good value based on P/E ratio compared to estimated Fair P/E ratio.

Threat

Annual earnings are forecast to grow slower than the American market.

Next Steps:

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. 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 example, changes in the company's cost of equity or the risk free rate can significantly impact the valuation. For United Parcel Service, there are three important elements you should consider:

Risks: Every company has them, and we've spotted 1 warning sign for United Parcel Service you should know about. Future Earnings: How does UPS'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 High Quality Alternatives: Do you like a good all-rounder? Explore our interactive list of high quality stocks to get an idea of what else is out there you may be missing!

PS. 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.

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Aiken, SC (29801)

Today

Partly to mostly cloudy skies with scattered thunderstorms during the morning. High 94F. Winds W at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 50%..

Tonight

A few clouds. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. Low 73F. Winds WNW at 5 to 10 mph.
For a handful of days in June, Hammond Hill Elementary served as a training site for North Augusta Public Safety as the department put each of its officers through a simulated active shooter response.

A blank is fired. Two officers rush down the hallway, checking behind every door. Another blank: go where the shots are, where the threat is, and go quickly; get control of the situation without loss of life  thats the leading directive.

Though law enforcement's response to an active shooter situation hasnt changed much in recent years, it looks different than it did a quarter century ago, when the Columbine shooting left 15 dead.

Columbine kind of started the revolution for changing school security, Vicky Gaskins said.

Gaskins, now director of security and emergency management for Aiken County Public Schools, had been a school resource officer with the Aiken County Sheriff's Office. Columbine, in April 1999, had just taken place when Gaskins started in her role as SRO.

Before Columbine, the active shooter response was slow and deliberate, she said. But afterward, everything changed, just as 9/11 changed everything for our airports. Protocols were re-established to quickly go to the target, go to the threat.

Just as response protocols drastically changed with Columbine, standards around building security also changed  it used to be that exterior doors werent locked, cameras were scarce and having just one point of entry was unusual.

Gaskins said it's been "a gradual process in updating Aiken County's 43 public schools. New this year is that every building will have a panic button for easy dispatch to law enforcement. The district began installing them late in the recent school year.

But the crucial change, she said, is one thats been slowly growing year after year: the addition of school resource officers.

This school year marks the first time that all North Augusta schools will have an SRO on site. It's also the first year that SROs will be in Aiken County elementary schools.

North Augusta Public Safety was awarded four fully funded state grants at the end of June that will provide for the addition of officers at North Augusta, Mossy Creek and Hammond Hill elementary schools and Highland Springs Middle School.

SROs act as both deterrent and early response should there be an incident on campus.

It gives a sense of security to the public and a sense of security to the students and staff  and its a liaison, a resource liaison, between the students, community and law enforcement, she said. A lot of our students, their only interaction with law enforcement might have been a negative, depending on their home life or what theyve interacted with, so this gives them a positive person.

The goal of an officer in every school isnt without its challenges.

Even if grant funding is available, the officers might not be. For every officer stationed in the schools, thats one more position for a law enforcement agency to back-fill.

Its a good thing for us, but that also means for every one of those positions that we get  and we need those people in every school weve got  well, where are those people going to come from? Theyre coming from our Public Safety department; theyre coming off the road and going into the schools, North Augusta Public Safety Chief John Thomas said during the citys long-term planning retreat in May.

A proviso to this years state budget, which passed late last month, attempts to expand the pool of eligible SROs by pouring $46 million into removing the cap on retirement earnings specifically for these positions.

Retired officers in South Carolina who come back to law enforcement post-retirement are able to draw both a regular paycheck and a portion of their retirement check. For those coming back as SROs, at least for the short term, there is no longer a cap on how much of that retirement check can be drawn.

As a proviso, the change will come under annual review, but state Rep. Bill Hixon, R-North Augusta, joined other lawmakers in passing a bill that now lies with the state Senate and that would make that change more permanent.

Resource officers and building upgrades are two parts of Aiken County Schools safety response. The other is creating a climate of security in which students understand basic prevention  not to open doors for anyone  and everyone, from students and parents to school staff and community members, is aware of whats happening around them.

Gaskins advises parents to stay engaged with their kids: know the social media platforms theyre using and the people they hang with.

Threats, rumors, concerns  all of this needs to be reported, Gaskins urges. Report it, but dont broadcast it, she said. That way, law enforcement can get into it before it gets muddied by everybody elses twists on it.
One of the nation's largest freight transportation companies is stepping up its presence in the Charleston market.

Averitt Express announced last week it has invested nearly $4.6 million into its hub at Palmetto Commerce Park, adding a dozen jobs to its local trucking and logistics operations.

The North Charleston expansion includes 35,000 square feet of warehousing space and more on-site parking and fuel tanks. The company said the investment enhances its ability to meet increased demand from customers as more cargo moves through the local port system.

Barry Blakely, executive vice president and chief operating officer, said the company is looking to grow in what he termed "one of the nation's most strategic logistics hubs."

Established in 1971 in Livingston, Tenn., privately owned Averitt started with just three trucks and now handles shipments to more than 100 locations worldwide. Its trucking services run primarily in the Southeast, including the Carolinas.

Boeing in Baghdad

Iraqi Airways recently took delivery of the airline's first North Charleston-made 787 Dreamliner with a special event in Baghdad to welcome the Boeing Co. widebody jet.

The Iraq flag carrier has ordered 10 787s to grow its long-haul network and connect Iraq to more international destinations.

The new Dreamliner follows the delivery of four Boeing 737 Max commercial airplanes since February. Iraqi Airways has ordered six 737-8s and 10 737-10s, giving its single-aisle fleet more capability for regional and medium-haul routes.

"As domestic and international air traffic gains momentum, it's crucial that our ... fleet matches growing demand with more efficient, capable and comfortable airplanes," Manaf Abdel-Monem, director general of Iraqi Airways, said in a written statement.

The carrier serves more than 50 destinations from Baghdad and is beefing up its fleet to support the projected increase in international business and leisure travel to and from its homeland. With global air traffic rebounding, Middle Eastern airlines are seeing more than a 40 percent increase in traffic compared to last year.

"Air transport is at the heart of economic growth. It creates employment, facilitates trade, enables tourism and supports sustainable development" Kuljit Ghata-Aura, Boeing's president of Middle East, Turkey and Africa, said in a statement. "The arrival of the Boeing 787 is an important step in connecting the Iraqi people to the region and the world."

Charge it

Volvo Cars, which next year will produce the EX90 battery-powered SUV at its plant near Ridgeville, has signed a deal that will let customers charge their electric vehicles at Tesla charging stations in North America.

The Swedish carmaker's EVs will be equipped with Tesla-designed plugs, called the North American Charging Standard, beginning in 2025.

The new charging points are in addition to existing access Volvo owners and lessors have to tens of thousands of fast-charge points, the company said.

As part of our journey to becoming fully electric by 2030, we want to make life with an electric car as easy as possible, CEO Jim Rowan said in a written statement. One major inhibitor to more people making the shift to electric driving  a key step in making transportation more sustainable  is access to easy and convenient charging infrastructure. With this agreement, were taking a major step to remove this threshold for Volvo drivers in the United States, Canada and Mexico.

Future Volvo vehicles equipped with the Tesla ports can continue using the alternative system with an adapter, the company said.

Council kudos

The American Council of Engineering Companies has recognized the Port of Charleston's Leatherman Terminal as one of the nation's top eight projects for its industry.

The two-year-old cargo hub at the former Navy base in North Charleston was a "Grand Award" recipient for 2023. It also was a finalist for the trade group's "Grand Conceptor" category, which signifies the best overall achievement.

Hundreds of people from every engineering discipline worked together on the site every day to build this container terminal," Walter Lagarenne, vice president of engineering and facilities for the State Ports Authority, said in a written statement. "It was the best project coordination Ive seen in my nearly 40-year career.

Among the firms that worked on the project: HDR Inc., Banks Construction Co., Samet Corp., Cape Romain/McLean and Cape Romain Contractors Inc.

The $1 billion first phase of the Leatherman opened in April 2021, marking the first new greenfield container terminal to open in the U.S. since 2009. Its operations have been hampered by a labor dispute between the SPA and the International Longshoremen's Association that is being reviewed by a federal appeals court.

The terminal's first phase can handle the equivalent of 700,000 20-foot containers a year and a ship carrying as many as 20,000 cargo boxes at a time. At full buildout, Leatherman will have three berths capable of accommodating 2.4 million containers annually.
After a lengthy quiet spell, investigators are onto at least two more suspects with South Carolina connections to a sprawling international Medicare scam.

The latest development in "Operation Brace Yourself" was included in a sweeping series of charges the U.S. Justice Department unveiled June 28 against 78 individuals in 16 states who are accused of billing the government $2.5 billion and collecting about $1.1 billion for a variety of bogus health care claims.

Millions of dollars in cash, cars and real estate were seized as part of the latest crackdown.

Two of the cases were filed in federal court in South Carolina, both tied to a wide-ranging probe that originated in the Palmetto State over fraudulent orders of medical braces and other so-called orthotic devices.

The ongoing federal probe into the telemedicine swindles quickly went national and its tentacles have reached as far as Asia, pulling in the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Internal Revenue Service and the agency that runs Medicare.

The newly filed criminal charges in Operation Brace Yourself name two business owners a half a world apart  Chintan Anjaria of India and Jeffrey Brooks of western New York. They appear to have been operating separately while playing in the same sandbox.

According to the government, Anjaria owns a marketing business that identified Medicare beneficiaries who qualified for certain treatments or equipment at no or little cost to them, such as knee, back or neck braces.

Prosecutors described a late 2019 kickback exchange involving signed prescriptions obtained from "certain tele-doctors" and false invoices that his firm would upload to the Medicare system.

The transaction also included the illegal sale of the orders to a South Carolina medical brace supplier  $375 each, in one example  and a $5,000 referral fee to an unidentified liaison, also in South Carolina, who helped arrange the deal.

As for Brooks, he's accused of submitting about $30 million in claims to Medicare and a similar federal program for veterans based on prescriptions procured through bribes and other payments, from May 2019 through 2020. The government estimated that it paid out about half that amount.

Investigators also learned that Brooks failed to disclose, as required, that he controlled eight Florida-based medical equipment businesses that were filling some of the orders. He concealed his ownership by paying others to have their names listed as the owners on official government forms, according to court documents.

Brooks' South Carolina tie-in  a Greenville call center  was described as a linchpin in his operation. His Remote Solutions LLC was set up in part to induce Medicare beneficiaries, who are mostly 65 and over or disabled, to give up their personal health information "and to agree to accept braces regardless of medical necessity," prosecutors said.

In addition, an undisclosed amount of federal reimbursement money was routed through the Upstate company's bank account before being transferred to Brooks, prosecutors said.

The fresh charges are coming to light more than four years after the Justice Department held a news conference in Columbia to announce it had started unraveling the Operation Brace Yourself web.

The probe at that point required 80 search warrants.

The early roundup of 24 individuals included Andrew Chmiel, then a Mount Pleasant resident, real estate investor and car enthusiast who owned or co-owned 14 medical equipment businesses. He was accused of acquiring fraudulent Medicare prescriptions through a call center in the Philippines and collecting nearly $100 million from taxpayers for unnecessary back, leg and neck braces.

Chmiel and two of his companies pleaded guilty in April 2021. By then, the government had seized his bank accounts and most other assets, including a $1.1 million home in Hobcaw Creek Plantation and six automobiles.

More than two years on, Chmiel still hasn't been sentenced, and his case file has been only occasionally updated.

Among the latest entries, the Justice Department sought the court's permission to sell three of his automobiles, including a 2005 Ferrari 430 Spyder, saying the cars have incurred more than $40,000 in storage expenses and are losing value. The proceeds will offset to some degree what the government expects to be "a significant amount of restitution to the victims in this case."
Fentanyl, a powerful synthetic opioid, killed nearly 1,500 people in South Carolina and sent another 10,000 to the hospital in a single year.

A Post and Courier investigation found the number of overdoses is likely much higher.

The paper surveyed coroners from almost half of South Carolina's counties and discovered that fatal overdoses often go unreported.

Coroners said this is because their offices can't afford toxicology or autopsies on everyone who dies, even as fentanyl continues to drive up death counts. Some offices are also understaffed, making it difficult to track figures at all.

The deaths that are counted don't show the full extent of the problem. Coroners' offices count drug deaths differently, skewing county-to-county comparisons.

This underreporting, coupled with delays in statewide data, has hampered medical and law enforcement officials' efforts to end fentanyl-related deaths. It means not enough of a life-saving antidote that can reverse the effects of an overdose is available. It means not enough police are patrolling areas where dealers sell drugs. It means not enough awareness is brought in communities where the drug is having devastating impacts.

Quantifying the problem

Only 22 coroners of the states 46 counties responded to a reporters requests for overdose data late last year and early this year. Of those, just 17 counties produced data specific to fentanyl.

Adding to the confusion, the S.C. Department of Health and Environmental Control uses different data for its annual overdose death report, which provides figures from two years ago. The latest report, published in February, covered drug fatalities from 2021.

It showed more than 2,000 people died of an overdose that year. More than two out of three poisonings were caused by fentanyl.

The report parsed deaths by county, and drugs used, but the figures didnt match those provided by coroners. For instance, the state listed 70 lethal overdoses in Berkeley County, but the Coroners Office said it investigated 85 drug-related deaths.

Caleb Cox, the health agency's director of vital statistics, said the discrepancy likely boils down to where the person died versus where they overdosed. A Berkeley County resident may have overdosed in their home, but was taken to MUSC, where they were pronounced dead. That death would be tallied in Charleston County, not Berkeley, Cox explained. But the number of deaths reported by the state in Charleston County is just one higher than the 240 deaths reported by Coroner Bobbi Jo O'Neal.

The state health department data is the standard, reported and verified by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Cox said. He blamed the federal agency, and the overall uptick in deaths during the COVID-19 pandemic, for the two-year delay in releasing the report.

The report capturing overdose deaths from 2022 isn't expected until at least September. And this years death toll wont be reported until mid-2024.

Between then and now, if trends continue, another 2,000 or more South Carolinians will die from overdoses.

Without timely data, response efforts that could save lives are also delayed, according to prevention and intervention experts, including Arnold Aliler, director of public health preparedness at the state health department. Before that, Aliler was a paramedic for 40 years and saw the devastating impact of the opioid epidemic.

Its important to know the numbers, he said.

Knowing where overdoses are concentrated helps authorities deploy resources there, Aliler added. Resources range from police officers, who arrest suppliers or deter dealers from selling, to public health awareness campaigns, and the distribution of naloxone or its brand-name Narcan, the leading overdose reversal treatment. Most first responders and health departments in the state use a tool called OD Map, which plots the overdoses they report and alerts them when there is a hotspot, but is not available to the general public.

An alert went out May 24 in Charleston after three men, in their 50s and 60s, died within 24 hours and one block of one another. Preliminary toxicology showed each had recently taken cocaine mixed with fentanyl, according to the alert provided by a law enforcement official. Two others were treated for nonfatal overdoses in the same area.

Aliler said there are other indicators to gauge where resources should go, including EMS transport data and documented uses of Narcan.

In 2022, EMS treated more than 10,000 people for suspected opioid overdoses, administering more than 15,000 doses of Narcan, according to data provided by the state health department.

Those numbers have steadily climbed since 2010, Aliler said. And skyrocketed since the pandemic.

As of June 6, less than halfway through the year, EMS has already treated over 7,000 suspected overdose patients.

But even this data doesnt capture the complete picture of fentanyl's destruction. Official figures cant capture overdoses when 911 isnt called. About 80 percent of people hospitalized for an overdose are taken there by EMS, Aliler said, but that means at least another 2,000 people could have overdosed last year.

Narcan is also widely available, and individuals are not required to report when they use or administer the nasal spray. Anyone can get it from health departments, treatment centers and some police departments across the state, and it's available over the counter in drug stores.

A national EMS tracker, which compares nonfatal overdose rates across the country, ranks South Carolina as "higher than the national average." Jasper County's rate is among the highest in the nation.

Charleston may have a solution

Charleston County Coroner Bobbi Jo ONeal is leading an effort to fix inconsistencies in overdose data collection, at least in the Lowcountry. Her office is one of the only ones in the state publishing real-time data on overdose deaths.

Last year, 240 people in Charleston County died from an opioid poisoning. That is more than either of the prior two years, according to the coroners online dashboard.

So far this year, 74 fatal opioid overdoses have been confirmed, and another 46 are suspected, pending toxicology results.

(The dashboard) really puts it into perspective that this is an ongoing problem, ONeal told The Post and Courier. We don't have a handle on it.

Recently, her office hired a forensic analyst, Suzanne Abel, to focus on improving the region's efforts in fatal overdose investigations. The role was part of a nearly $300,000 federal grant. Abel works with neighboring coroners' offices to improve and regulate data-entry protocols for state and national databases.

According to O'Neal, the hope is that this effort will provide more accurate opioid death statistics so local, state and federal agencies can analyze opioid-specific mortality rates.

In January, the office also purchased a rapid toxicology machine that will help it better detect suspected overdoses.

If we could do toxicology on everyone, I think wed be shocked, ONeal said, referencing an untold number of overdoses that are missed because there were no outward signs of drug use.

The machine was part of a $625,000 emergency preparedness grant. The remaining funds are earmarked in case of a mass casualty event.

But ONeal considers the lives lost to fentanyl, and other opioids, mass casualties.

In the emergency preparedness world, there is a tendency to plan for the big events, like a hurricane or a mass shooting, she said, adding that often not enough focus is given to protracted events like the opioid epidemic or the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Charleston Police Department was recently awarded a $900,000 federal grant for a police-assisted peer recovery program. Shelby Joffrion, a civilian, joined the department in October to run the program, but plans are to hire two more people who have firsthand experience with addiction to help with outreach.

Joffrion's focus has been following up with every person who has overdosed in the city, or their families. She offers to connect them with recovery services, or at the least leaves behind a harm-reduction kit.

Each kit contains Narcan, strips to test drugs for fentanyl, and a resource card for substance use services. She also visits hot spots, like motels and restaurants, where overdoses are occurring regularly, helping other departments do the same.

Last year, South Carolina began receiving $360 million, its portion of a national opioid settlement. All 46 counties as well as 43 eligible municipalities signed on to the settlement agreement, pledging to spend 92 percent of the funds on directly addressing the opioid crisis.
Charleston, SC (29403)

Today

Thunderstorms during the morning hours, then skies turning partly cloudy during the afternoon. High 97F. Winds W at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 80%..

Tonight

Scattered thunderstorms during the evening. Partly cloudy skies after midnight. Gusty winds and small hail are possible. Low 77F. Winds WNW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 40%.
COLUMBIA  South Carolina's 2023 legislative session was dominated by hard-right pushes to ban abortions, expand gun-toting rights and generally fight "woke" progressivism.

But there were also bipartisan wins in public safety and state spending.

Legislators in both parties called it a year of historic investments in South Carolina workers  both in boosting the pay of public employees and incentivizing the creation of thousands of private-sector jobs.

"Our economic development is off-the-charts good," said House Minority Leader Todd Rutherford, specifically pointing to South Carolina scoring Scout Motors' $2 billion electric vehicle manufacturing plant.

The company's first U.S. plant, expected to employ 4,000 people, was lured with a record-breaking $1.3 billion package that legislators passed quickly in March. No borrowing was necessary.

The money for a new interstate interchange, as well as other road and utility work and soil stabilization at the site, came off the top of higher-than-expected tax collections.

The Richland County plant is considered a potential gamechanger for the Midlands, especially, which lacks the industrial base of the Upstate and Lowcountry.

"This is better than BMW and Boeing," Rutherford, D-Columbia, said. "This is a corporate headquarters, and it cements South Carolina's role in automobiles."

The state budget for the fiscal year that started July 1 provides every state worker a raise of at least $2,500, which they'll start to collect in their next paycheck. And they'll see the full benefit, since the budget covers increases in health insurance premiums and pension contributions.

Workers who already made at least $50,000 will get a 5 percent boost, representing the largest cost-of-living increase across state government in nearly 40 years. Jobs deemed critical to fill and keep  in law enforcement, nursing and mental health  will see salary hikes that could surpass 15 percent.

The budget also increased the minimum pay for teachers by $2,500 across the state salary schedule, which pays according to classroom experience and level of degree. How much of a raise teachers get will vary by district, depending on what their local school board approves. Regardless, lawmakers tout a 33 percent jump over five years in the allowed salary floor as significant progress.

Asked about the good, bad and ugly of the session, Senate Minority Leader Brad Hutto said "the good was in the budget and money to teachers and state employees.

"Weve got too many vacancies in state agencies in some critical areas and a lot of that is due to funding, so by telling state employees we value them, that were going to give them raises, I think was really important," said the Orangeburg Democrat.

Hutto, whose district spans six rural counties, also pointed to a third year of money for school construction in poor districts. The budget put $120 million toward the effort.

Culture-war debates

As for the ugly, Hutto said "social issues just kept popping to the top. It seems every week the majority (Statehouse Republicans) decided to put up a bill that fed to the red meat of their party."

Senate Majority Leader Shane Massey doesn't dispute that Republicans who rule both chambers took up a lot of social issues. But he contends that's what constituents wanted.

"We spent time on issues we've heard about from people all over the state, not just in a couple of places, not just in pockets, but everywhere," said the Edgefield Republican. "Ill also say that even though we did spend time addressing social issues, that did not keep us from addressing other issues.

"We addressed controversial issues and non-controversial, but we tackled the main issues we wanted to address this year and Im proud of that," he continued.

Laws he counts as big deals that weren't partisan include one ending South Carolina's half-century "certificate of need" bureaucratic process that required hospitals to get permission to build or expand. Time will tell if it results in the improved access to health care that advocates have argued for years.

A bill Republican senators refused to take up would add penalties for people convicted of a crime committed against someone due to their race, gender or sexual orientation. South Carolina remains one of just two states in the nation without a specific hate crime law.

Named after the late Sen. Clementa Pinckney, who was among the nine victims gunned down in 2015 by a white supremacist at a Black church in Charleston, the bill that passed the House in March would tack on to a sentence up to five years in prison and a $10,000 fine. It advanced again to the Senate floor but has yet to receive debate.

The single topic that took up the most time was abortion, as Republicans in both chambers continued to fight over how far they're willing to go in banning them in South Carolina.

A state Supreme Court decision days before the session opened in January guaranteed abortion would be the central issue. In a split decision, justices tossed out a six-week ban that had temporarily taken effect last summer after the U.S. Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade. The session ended with the Legislature passing another six-week ban that was almost immediately suspended.

How the state's high court rules after last week's oral arguments on the new law could dictate whether abortion continues to be the priority for the GOP in 2024.

Republicans count the abortion bill's eventual passage as a huge win. Democrats call it a continued stripping away of women's rights.

Other culture-war issues that advanced but didn't reach Gov. Henry McMaster's desk include bills that ban hormone treatments and surgery for transgender youth, bar Chinese citizens from buying land in South Carolina, and require the state's pension fund investors to continue making decisions based solely on what will net the most money  rather than giving weight to company policies on climate change and social impacts.

The latter is part of the fight over ESG, which stands for environmental, social and corporate governance. But the head of the investment agency says that bill would change nothing about how South Carolina's pension investors operate.

Education

Both chambers passed different versions of a bill that requires "fact-based" lessons on race in K-12 schools and creates a multi-step uniform process for parents to complain if they believe already banned concepts are being taught. Sections added during the House debate made even the chief sponsor question her support.

The session ended with the House refusing to accept the Senate's version. A compromise could be worked out after legislators return in January. In the meantime, the race-centric concepts at the heart of the debate remain banned through the budget.

Another contentious education bill that did cross the finish line creates South Carolina's first broad private-school choice program  if it survives an expected legal challenge. The law culminates a two-decade push by Republicans and would make $6,000 vouchers for private tuition available starting in the 2024-25 school year. Opponents say the law's built-in year of preparation makes an immediate lawsuit unnecessary.

An education bill signed with bipartisan support guaranteed teachers and other school district employees six weeks of paid parental leave starting June 26.

Public safety

Compromises were reached on changing South Carolina's bail bond system, punishing fentanyl traffickers with up to 40 years in prison, and requiring everyone convicted of drunk driving to get a device on their vehicle that won't let it start if it detects alcohol on their breath.

But McMaster didn't get his biggest request of the year for reducing violent crime  a law that enables state and local law enforcement to charge more felons with illegal gun possession and increases penalties for subsequent violations.

That got tied up with an effort for so-called "constitutional carry," which would allow adults to carry a gun openly or concealed without needing a permit. Law enforcement officials have opposed the idea for years, but it's become a conservative litmus test for many GOP primary voters. The bill got stuck this year in the Senate with Republicans divided on the issue. Advocates are sure to put pressure on Republican opponents in the off-session.

Whether the felon-in-possession piece can pass separately next year or it reaches McMaster as part of permit-less carry will likely get a lot of attention ahead of the March filings for re-election.

All bills carry over into next year at whatever point in the process they're in when this session ended in mid-June. And every House and Senate seat will be on the ballot in 2024.

Other bills that made it into law in 2023:
The recent U.S. Supreme Court rulings checking state legislatures power to control congressional mapping has raised questions of what happens next in the legal fight over the two congressional districts that split Charleston.

After a trial last October, a three-judge federal panel found South Carolinas Republican-controlled Legislature improperly used race to draw the coastal 1st Congressional District held by Republican Nancy Mace and ordered it redone.

Republicans in the Statehouse appealed to the Supreme Court, which will hold oral arguments in the case this fall.

Because the Supreme Courts recent rulings covering places such as Alabama and Louisiana involved challenges under the Voting Rights Act and state constitutions, those cases are not seen as perfectly parallel to the South Carolina lawsuit.

The S.C. case involves the 14th and 15th Amendments, so experts say those decisions will not directly impact Charleston.

Nonetheless, Democrats and other advocates seeking to shake up South Carolinas political lines believe the rulings offer signs the high court will side with them.

What did the U.S. Supreme Court rule?

Allen v. Milligan: In a 5-4 ruling released June 8, the Supreme Court ruled Alabamas Republican state lawmakers violated Section 2 of the Voting Rights Act when they drew congressional maps that gave Black voters, who represent a quarter of the electorate, a majority in just one of seven districts.

Section 2 of the VRA bars states from diluting minority groups electoral power. To analyze whether states have done so, courts determine whether its possible to draw more geographically compact and politically cohesive minority-majority districts. In Milligan, Chief Justice John Roberts reaffirmed both that test and a lower courts decision to flunk Alabama.

The court did the same in a case involving Louisiana.

Moore v. Harper: On June 27 in a 6-3 decision of a case anchored in North Carolina, the court largely rejected a fringe legal theory with an odd South Carolina backstory that would have ended state courts ability to review federal elections laws passed by state legislatures. That would have made it impossible for state courts to reject congressional maps that violate state constitutional provisions barring partisan gerrymandering.

The rulings came as a surprise to many observers as the courts now-dominant conservatives, led by Roberts, had previously weakened the VRA in 2013 and given state legislatures wide leeway on redistricting, according to Todd Shaw, a University of South Carolina political scientist.

Will the rulings impact the 1st District?

The cases are about similar issues but have fundamental differences, Harvard University elections law expert Nick Stephanopoulos told The Post and Courier.

So Milligan tells us very little about what might happen in the South Carolina case, he said. Milligan clearly affirms that racial gerrymandering claims remain viable, but it doesn't speak to how any particular such claim might be resolved.

In the South Carolina case, a coalition of advocacy groups and Black voters in the Lowcountry sued Republican state lawmakers, alleging race was the predominant factor in drawing the boundaries of the 1st District after the 2020 census, which would be unconstitutional under the 14th and 15th Amendments.

Specifically, they argued that moving about 30,000 Black Charleston-area voters from Maces 1st District to Columbia Democratic Rep. Jim Clyburns 6th District was racially motivated.

In court filings and trial testimony, Republican lawmakers countered the boundary shifts were prompted not by race but by politics  to give the previously toss-up 1st District a stronger Republican tilt.

While racial gerrymanders are unconstitutional, a 2019 Supreme Court decision essentially allowed political gerrymanders.

In Milligan, Black voters and advocacy groups argued that Alabama lawmakers were required under the VRA to consider race  basically the opposite of the South Carolina case  to create two Black-majority districts. Mapmakers are allowed to consider race in drawing lines in order to comply with the VRA as the high court has ruled that is a compelling government interest.

Courts even struggle with the interplay between a Section 2 VRA claim and a racial gerrymandering claim, but it is the case that lawmakers can consider race. They just cant consider race for the wrong reasons, said Allen Chaney, the legal director for the ACLU of South Carolina, which is one of the parties challenging the maps.

Meanwhile, the North Carolina ruling concerned state courts while the South Carolina legal battle is playing out in federal court.

Why werent Charlestons districts challenged under the VRA?

Theres a good reason the plaintiffs did not pursue a VRA claim, said state Sen. Chip Campsen, who is at the center of the litigation as the Statehouse Republicans chief mapmaker after the 2020 census.

To win a challenge under the VRA, plaintiffs would have to show the Legislature could create another compact, majority-minority district. Due to the geographic distribution of South Carolinas Black population, that is likely impossible.

We cant even draw one compact, majority-minority district in South Carolina, much less a second one, Campsen, R-Isle of Palms, said.

Do the rulings hint at how the justices could vote in the South Carolina case?

Campsen said the recent decisions dont portend anything about future votes because he sees the cases as unrelated.

Thats what happens when you have judges that call balls and strikes. One side may be happy on one opinion and then theyre unhappy on the next opinion, he said.

Yet, the high court in the Alabama and North Carolina decisions made a point of reaffirming precedents and deferring to the factual findings of the trial courts. Both precedent and the trial court favor those challenging South Carolinas maps, Chaney said, adding the recent rulings are encouraging.

The court effectively stated by a 6-3 majority  that its giving greater scrutiny to what legislatures do when it comes to voting and to voting rights, USCs Shaw said.

What are the 1st District candidates saying?

If state lawmakers are forced to redraw the maps, the 1st District, which Mace won by 14 points in 2022, would likely become more competitive.

Mace dismissed the recent rulings impact on the case.

Totally separate laws, totally separate cases. I don't know what will happen, she told The Post and Courier June 28.

Maces Democratic challengers, Mac Deford and Michael B. Moore, whose chances of success against Mace heavily rely on a redrawn district, have hailed the decisions.

SCOTUS agrees: Politicians shouldnt be able to use redistricting to unfairly influence elections, Moore said in a tweet.

Caitlin Byrd contributed from North Charleston.
Washington has received the green light to rejoin United Nations' heritage, cultural and science body Unesco, a move expected to give rise to yet another front for US-China rivalry - this time over setting the global rules on artificial intelligence (AI).

Observers said the US will push back on increasing efforts by China to mould Unesco policymaking on emerging technologies, which is deemed important in shaping global regulations.

A US proposal to rejoin the body was adopted on Friday, with "a very large majority" of the 193 member states voting in favour, according to a Unesco press release.

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.

"With this return, Unesco will be in an even stronger position to carry out its mandate," director general Audrey Azoulay was quoted as saying.

China was among the 10 members that voted against the motion, alongside Russia, North Korea, Belarus, Iran, Eritrea, Indonesia, Nicaragua, Syria and the Palestinian representatives, while 132 voted in favour.

This comes after the Biden administration submitted a formal application to rejoin Unesco on June 8, some five years after then-president Donald Trump ordered an exit.

The US will fund the equivalent of 22 per cent of the Paris-based body's regular budget, and also progressively repay estimated arrears of US$619 million, Friday's press release said. Unesco's annual operating budget is US$534 million.

John Bass, the US under secretary of state for management, said in March that absence from Unesco was hurting the US in its rivalry with China, which has invested large sums in UN organisations.

"[If the US is] really serious about the digital-age competition with China ... we can't afford to be absent any longer", he said.

China, which quickly became the top UN donor after the US pulled out, earlier criticised Washington's bid to return, saying international organisations should not be used as "arenas for geopolitical competition".

According to Bart Edes, a distinguished fellow at the Asia-Pacific Foundation of Canada, "Washington is reclaiming a seat at the Unesco table as its role in making recommendations on AI is of particular concern to the US."

Unesco plays a critical role in leading global dialogues, publishing concept papers and providing technical advice to governments, and is expected to shape the international discourse on AI.

In early June, it published a policy paper setting norms on AI ethics to address global concerns about the lack of regulation standards, especially as OpenAI's ChatGPT takes the world by storm.

While UN policy papers are merely advisory, they often carry a lot of weight in shaping global norms and values, and inform policymaking processes.

An exterior view of the Unesco headquarters is seen in Paris, France. Photo: EPA-EFE alt=An exterior view of the Unesco headquarters is seen in Paris, France. Photo: EPA-EFE>

Edes said participating in Unesco and being involved in rule-setting and allocating resources offer China and the US opportunities to promote their values and interests in the international arena.

After the US said it would leave in 2017, China quickly increased its contribution and became the largest donor the following year. Also in 2018, it successfully backed Chinese diplomat Xing Qu to serve as Unesco's deputy director general, the No 2 rank in the organisation.

The changes came as China sought a bigger say on global AI rule-setting. In 2019, it co-hosted with Unesco the International Conference on AI and Education in Beijing, where important figures from more than 120 member states gathered to discuss AI strategies for digital transformation.

Both Unesco and the Chinese government hailed the Beijing Consensus policy paper as a key achievement of the conference, which was hosted by China's capital city for three years in a row.

The Beijing Consensus outlines AI-related recommendations to member states, promoting a "whole-government" to AI regulation and "giving special priority to Africa" in AI financing.

Becoming a key political and economic player in Africa has been high on China's recent global agenda. China has also relied on Unesco's platform to publish and promote its science agenda, such as "Made in China 2025" - a strategic plan to promote technological self-reliance and push manufacturers to decouple from US tech suppliers.

Michael Frank, a senior fellow at the Wadhwani Centre for AI and Advanced Technologies under Washington-based think tank Centre for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS), said blocking China's efforts to set AI standards and constrain its AI ability is of strong interest to the US.

China has been active in international organisations that set standards for all kinds of emerging technology, from AI to 5G, and the UN is increasingly seen as a platform for Beijing to channel its global ambitions.

However, China's aims of guiding coalitions like Unesco to serve its interests might face a hurdle if the US was able to steer other major economies away from the UN system, he said.

The US can set standards among fellow democracies in blocs such as the Group of 7, the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework, the Quad, and the US-EU Trade and Technology Council - alternatives that are not available to China.

Frank said the US recognises that even by being in the room, it will be more effective at blocking China from pushing its AI agenda through the organisation.

However, Unesco had a comparatively limited role in AI rule-setting, he pointed out. "I doubt Unesco will play a major role in settling the most important international aspects of AI, like intellectual property, weapons development, and existential risk."

In 2020, the Chinese government lobbied for its candidate, Wang Binying, to head the UN's rule-setting World Intellectual Property Organization, which handles a more critical aspect of the issue. But he was eventually defeated by a US-backed candidate.

Amid intensifying US rivalry and a sluggish post-Covid economic recovery, China has vowed to double down on unleashing the power of AI, hoping it will transform industries and boost growth.

"China is fundamentally miscalculating its ability to develop world-leading AI on its own," Frank warned.

Since ChatGPT went viral, many Chinese tech firms have also launched their own chatbots, but they must comply with national censorship rules.

The request from China's top internet regulator for AI companies to use algorithms that "uphold core values of socialism" imposed significant technical limitations that would make Chinese AI firms lag behind their foreign peers, Frank said.

"Efforts to develop a domestically self-sufficient AI ecosystem, and then export AI products and services around the world after determining China-friendly standards, will not work," he forecast.

"AI ecosystems are simply too complex."

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.
This month, 10 students will travel to and and study in Taiwan as part of the University of Guam Smart Agriculture Technology & Culture Experience Study Abroad Program, the university announced in a news release.

The students were selected in the 2021-22 academic year to partake in the study abroad program for the 2023 fall semester through a U.S. Department of Agriculture National Institute of Food and Agriculture grant by the UOG College of Natural and Applied Sciences.

The program, which began July 3, aims to advance agriculture and food science education in insular institutions with the use of virtual reality technology, UOG stated in the release.

The two-week experience will consist of hands-on exercises in utilizing both virtual reality technology and operation of farm implements in the field. Kuan-Ju Chen, UOG assistant professor of agricultural economics, elaborated on how the program will benefit the students and demonstrate the essentials of learning agriculture from a global perspective.

Through this program, the students will gain a deep understanding of the challenges and solutions faced by farmers from around the world, Chen said. They will have the opportunity to experience different philosophies concerning land use, get hands-on experience with time-honored agricultural methods, and witness the cutting-edge future of farming.

Trip preparation included Chinese language lessons, which were taught by National Taiwan Normal University visiting scholar Liang-Kuang Chen.

Cecilia Pangelinan, a junior, shared her appreciation.

Our teacher has been very helpful and understanding, especially at the (accelerated) pace were going, said Pangelinan.
The Conservative Millennial

In the wake of the powerful Typhoon Mawar that has recently struck our beloved island of Guam, it is crucial for us to rally together as a res Read moreUniting for a clean and safe school year
FOX 9 is the Twin Cities Fox affiliate. Via Twitter, I see that it has gone deep on the Supreme Court case holding that President Biden lacked the authority to forgive some $430 billion in student debt with the wave of a pen. FOX 9s Corin Hoggard covers the story Burden of student debt heavier for minorities after Supreme Court ruling. Hoggard overlooks the constitutional issue addressed by the Court in Biden v. Nebraska. Instead, he seeks to create a racial issue where there is none.

What a shame that the one student featured isnt satisfied with a subsidized student loan or with his investment in his own education, though even that is unclear in this ludicrous story. The intellectually haggard Mr. Hoggard does not appear to understand how the quote from rising sophomore Marty Micheli bears on his own story: I dont want to be caught as like the only dummy who paid for their loans when everyone else is are getting covered by the government.

What a shame that we dont live in a monarchy. What a shame that the president cannot rule with a pen, at least in this case. What a shame that his powers are constrained by a Constitution. What a perfect way to get the ball rolling on this long July 4 weekend.
Has United States Attorney David Weiss been granted the ultimate authority to investigate and charge the Hunter Biden case as he sees fit? IRS whistleblower Gary Shapley testified that Weiss told him and others on the investigative team that he did not (for example, at page 28 of the Shapley transcript). Taking advantage of the long holiday weekend in a scandal management kind of way, on Friday Weiss released a letter to House Judiciary Committee Chairman Jim Jordan responding to Jordans question on this point. I say respond rather than answer advisedly. Weisss June 30 letter is posted online here. Analyze this:

Now he can answer to Congress regarding whether he lied to FBI and IRS agents on 10/7/22 about having asked for special counsel authority and been turned down, or whether he is playing semantics in this letter with *when* assurances were made to him about receiving it in future.  Tristan Leavitt (@tristanleavitt) July 1, 2023

The New York Post covers Weisss Friday news-dump letter in Hunter Biden prosecutor maintains he had ultimate authority over probe: I stand by what I wrote. Im not sure stand by is the right formulation. Wobbles by may be more like it. The Post story does not take up the interpretive issues raised by Weisss response.

Margot Cleveland provides background necessary to understanding Weisss current letter in her Federalist column IRS Whistleblower Emails Suggest David Weiss Misled Congress In Letter Claiming Charging Authority. Cleveland notes that Weisss current letter is his second. It follows up on Weisss June 7 letter to Jordan. Weisss June 7 letter is posted online here.

That letter prompted a June 22 letter from Jordan. Jordans June 22 letter is posted online here. Weisss current letter responds to Jordans June 22 letter.

In the June 22 letter Jordan asked Weiss to provide a list of individuals who drafted or assisted in drafting Weisss June 7 letter. Jordan also asked Weiss who instructed you to sign and send your June 7 letter to the Committee and for details on any conversations Weiss had with Attorney General Merrick Garland or others at the Department of Justice.

It would be unduly charitable to describe Weisss current letter as ambiguous on the subject of ultimate authority. Weiss doesnt have it. It should also be noted that Weiss failed to respond in any fashion to Jordans questions above. It may be time for Elizabeth Stauffer to go back to work on the I hate Attorney General Merrick Garland so much I can barely stand to hear him speak beat.
PR-Inside.com: 2023-07-02 19:03:35

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NEW YORK, NY / ACCESSWIRE / July 2, 2023 / Bronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman, LLC, a nationally recognized law firm, notifies investors that a class action lawsuit has been filed against Toronto-Dominion Bank ("TD Bank") and several of its officers on behalf of all persons or entities that purchased or otherwise acquired securities of First Horizon Corporation ("First Horizon") (NYSE:FHN).Class Definition:This lawsuit seeks to recover damages against Defendants for alleged violations of the federal securities laws on behalf of all persons and entities that purchased or otherwise acquired First Horizon securities between February 28, 2022 and May 3, 2023, inclusive (the "Class Period"). Such investors are encouraged to join this case by visiting the firm's site: www.bgandg.com/fhn Case Details:The Complaint alleges that Defendants made materially false and/or misleading statements and failed to disclose material adverse facts about TD Bank's operations, the risks associated with the timing for the closing of the First Horizon acquisition, and TD Bank's ability to obtain the necessary regulatory approvals to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which they were made, not false and misleading. Specifically, the Complaint alleges that Defendants misrepresented and/or failed to disclose to the market that: (1) TD Bank had deficient controls over AML and suspicious transaction reporting; (2) that the lack of controls posed a significant risk to the closing of the First Horizon acquisition; and (3) that the deficient AML controls actually caused a delay in obtaining the regulatory approvals for the First Horizon acquisition. As a result, Defendants' positive statements about TD Bank's risk culture and its ability to timely close the First Horizon transaction were materially false and misleading and/or lacked a reasonable basis at all relevant times.What's Next?A class action lawsuit has already been filed. If you wish to review a copy of the Complaint you can visit the firm's site: www.bgandg.com/fhn or you may contact Peretz Bronstein, Esq. or his Law Clerk and Client Relations Manager, Yael Nathanson of Bronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman, LLC at 212-697-6484. If you suffered a loss in First Horizon, you have until July 21, 2023 to request that the Court appoint you as lead plaintiff. Your ability to share in any recovery doesn't require that you serve as a lead plaintiff.Why Bronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman:Bronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman, LLC is a nationally recognized firm that represents investors in securities fraud class actions and shareholder derivative suits. Our firm has recovered hundreds of millions of dollars for investors nationwide.Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes.Contact:Bronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman, LLCPeretz Bronstein or Yael Nathanson212-697-6484 | info@ bgandg.com SOURCE: Bronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman, LLC
Netflix says July looks electrifying as it has an enthralling mix of action, drama, comedy, and adventure titles showing and also debuting on its platform.

The titles include Fatal Seduction, Love, Sex and 30 Candles and more.

Proud Mary debuted on the 1st of July. Here, a guilt-ridden hit woman sparks a bitter mob war and soon faces tremendous threats from all sides while trying to protect an orphaned boy.

After that, UNKNOWN, a four-part docuseries event that tells breathtaking stories of adventure and exploration in awe-inspiring uncharted territories, will premiere weekly on Netflix from July 3.

On the 6th, Deep Fake Love will be available for viewing. Here, five couples put their trust to the test in this steamy reality series, where deep fake technology blurs the line between truth and lies in a cash prize game.

The next day, viewers can watch Seasons which tells the story of two best friends who make a deal to take risks and look for love again after a string of failed relationships.

Multiple delights

The fun doesnt end as Fatal Seduction, and Out-Laws hit the streaming platform on the same day.

Fatal Seduction tells the story of a married professor who is pulled into a passionate affair with a younger man that uncovers a path of tragedy and betrayal from those closest to her.

While Out-Laws follows Owen after the bank he manages gets robbed just days before his wedding, all the evidence points in one incredibly awkward direction: his future in-laws.

In Nineteen to Twenty, premiering on the 11th, young adults share their last week of teens and the first week of their twenties together  experiencing freedom and all the firsts of adulthood.

Netflix has something in store for children, too, with Sonic Prime: Season 2 hitting the platform on the 13th. In this season, Sonic battles the Chaos Council for control of the powerful Paradox Prism, one Shard at a time, with the help of his ragtag group of Shatterverse allies.

On the 14th, a young, happily-in-love couples bond is tested when rumours and suspicions threaten to tear them apart in Deja vu.

In Nganu, which is coming to the platform on the 21st, villagers advise an abusive husband to channel his rage in the army. There, he must come to terms with violent urges with deep and painful roots.

Fans of BASTARD -Heavy Metal, and Dark Fantasy will be excited to know that the series is returning to Netflix with its second season on the 31st of the month. This season, the Dark Rebel Army continues to terrorise the land in its ruthless mission to unlock the final seal. But an evolved Yoko leads the forces of good.

Nollywood titles

Viewers can also sit back and enjoy all the awesome local titles currently on Netflix, including Passport, A Lot like love, Ijakumo, ObaraM, Mari, Finding Fela and Yahoo+.

In Passport, a pair of men from vastly different backgrounds recruit a street-smart sidekick to help recover a stolen passport in time to catch an important flight.

A Lot Like Love follows an heiress and her husband  also her fathers most trusted aide  as they enjoy a romantic weekend getaway until its disrupted when things take a nightmarish turn.

A pastor living a double life falls for an exotic dancer in his congregation, but hes unaware that its all part of an ex-lovers plan to destroy him in Ijakumo. While ObaraM Oluchi, a promising musician confronted by her past, trying to reconcile with the daughter she abandoned.

After escaping from the village of Rimau, Mati goes to Zazzau to look for the treasure left behind by his wealthy deceased father, In Mati.

Finding Fela, on the other hand, is a documentary that explores the life and legacy of Afrobeat pioneer and political activist Fela Kuti. Directed by Oscar winner Alex Gibney.

Yahoo+ sees 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.

All these and many more are available for viewing, only on Netflix.

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The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Abdullahi Adamu, has asked the leadership of the National Assembly to make policies that will help President Bola Tinubu achieve his campaign promises.

Mr Adamu gave the advice on Saturday when the President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, led members of the Senate to his Keffi residence in Nasarawa State.

The APC national chairman said the only way to support the administration of Mr Tinubu is to ensure that members of the two legislative chambers are united.

Nigerians expect a lot through you and that can only be achieved through a united legislature and the executive working in sync in bipartisan manner.

As the President of the Senate and Chairman of the National Assembly, you have the knowledge, experience and what it takes for the two arms of government to work in harmony for the peace and development of our country, he said.

READ ALSO:

Mr Adamu congratulated the senate president and his deputy, Barau Jibrin, for their emergence as leaders of the upper legislative chamber.

He said, I congratulate you and your deputy on your emergence as the President of the Senate and Deputy President of the Senate respectively. Your emergence was a great relief to the party.

Contests for offices are over, it is now time for governance. There must be effective collaboration between the legislature and the executive in the overall interest of our people.

In his remarks, Mr Akpabio extended appreciation to the leadership of the APC for their support.

Sallah is a period to exchange love which is what Islam enjoins us to do. We are here to pay Sallah homage to a man of honour, to give respect to whom it is due.

We thank the leadership of the party and the National Working Committee (NWC) through you for the role you played which led to the success of the National Assembly leadership elections.

We also thank the Almighty Allah for keeping you alive and we pray that He keeps you alive in good health for more contributions to the development of the youth of this country.

As I have been saying, the 10th National Assembly will support the President Bola Tinubu-led administration to succeed. We will put laws in place to support the Renewed Hope agenda of this administration in the overall interest of national peace, unity and development.

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The Court of Appeal in Calabar on Friday upheld the conviction of an international fraudster convicted for internet fraud.

Agatha Okeke, Federal High Court judge in Uyo, had on 27 June 2022 convicted Scales Olatunji for internet fraud and money laundering charges preferred against him by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

He was sentenced to 235 years in prison without an option of a fine.

Mr Olatunji was prosecuted by the Uyo Zonal Command of the EFCC, the anti-graft agency said in a statement posted on Twitter on Wednesday.

The convict was prosecuted, following the receipt of a petition by Oslo Police District, Norway, requesting the assistance of the Commission in investigating a network of Nigerian citizens, who had serially duped some Norwegians, the EFCC said in the statement.

According to the EFCC, Mr Olatunji belonged to a syndicate of internet fraudsters who specialised in compromising business emails.

The convict defrauded the Norwegian Government and its citizens to the tune of N525,172,580 and used the proceeds of the crime to purchase luxurious properties in choice areas within Lagos State.

The anti-graft agency said the offence contravenes provisions of Section 18 (a) of the Money Laundering (Prohibition) Act 2011 (as amended) and punishable under Section 15 (3) of the same Act.

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Dissatisfied with the judgment of the trial court, the convict approached the appellate court, where he raised 11 grounds of appeal and prayed to the court to set aside the trial courts judgment.

Delivering judgment on the matter, a three-person panel of the appellate court led by Justice Muhammed Idris dismissed the appeal because the prosecution counsel had proven his case beyond reasonable doubt and upheld the lower courts decision.

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The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has faulted the decision of the federal government on the dissolution of the Governing Councils of all federal universities in the country.

The union said that the move was inimical and a major setback toward the growth and development of university education in Nigeria.

The Chairman of the University of Jos chapter of the union, Chris Yilgwan, stated this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Saturday in Jos.

NAN reports that the National Universities Commission (NUC) had on June 22, announced the dissolution of governing councils of all federal universities and boards of other agencies and parastatals in the country.

The NUC directive was based on a similar one three days earlier by President Bola Tinubu ordering the dissolution of the boards of all government parastatals, agencies and companies. A PREMIUM TIMES review of the presidential directive showed that universities, polytechnics and even the NUC were among the educational institutions affected by the directive.

Mr Yilgwan, who condemned the move, insisted that such a trend if allowed to continue, would cripple the university system.

According to Mr Yilgwan, the dissolution contravened the Act establishing federal universities, adding that it will stagnate the progress of the institutions.

The recent dissolution of the governing councils of federal universities by the National Universities Commission does not conform with the Miscellaneous Act of 2003 as amended.

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The Act provided a statutory tenure of governing councils of universities and so they cannot be dissolved at will like other boards.

The governing council is the highest decision-making body of every university, and once it is dissolved without immediate replacement, it stalls every major decision in the university.

So, we consider the dissolution as inimical to the progress of the university system and call on the federal government to rescind its decision, he said.

He appealed to the government at all levels to allow the universities to operate in accordance with the law establishing them.

(NAN)

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Richard Gingras, the Vice President of News at Google, is confirmed to give the Keynote address at the West Africa Journalism Innovation Conference hosted by the Centre for Journalism Innovation and Development (CJID). He will set the tone for the conference which aims to explore the crucial intersection between accountability journalism and innovation in Africa.

Other speakers and panellists have also been confirmed, and together they would help ensure the robustness of conversation around various topics. These include Kole Shettima who is the Director of the Nigeria Office at MacArthur Foundation; Dapo Olorunyomi who is the Publisher at Premium Times; Samson Itodo of Yiaga Africa, a community organiser and expert on democracy; Jake Epelle, a champion for the cause of disability; Richard Gevers, the founder of Open Cities labs; Shamima Muslim, the founder and convenor of the Alliance for Women in Media Africa (AWMA) and others whose vast knowledge and expertise is sure to ensure that vital issues surrounding accountability journalism in Africa are properly tackled.

Artificial intelligence, particularly the recent breakthroughs in large language models (LLMs), has brought about a revolutionary transformation in our world. Its impact on jobs and democracies can be both positive and negative, depending on the steps adopted in guiding its development in the immediate future. In West Africa, the media plays a crucial role in addressing these concerns, yet it faces its own challenges in this rapidly changing landscape.

To assure the depth of the information from WAJIC, we diligently brought together experts, mobilizers, and significant actors from numerous fields worldwide, says Busola Ajibola, the deputy director of Journalism at the CJID.

CJID encourages the public to follow up on preparations and other crucial information concerning the conference and other panellists on the www.wajic.thecjid.org event. The centre is eager to make this one enormous move toward improving journalism in Africa and hopes you would join us.

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George Soros says A.I. threatens democracies and helps authoritariansbut he sees no way to stop it

George Soros doubts artificial intelligence can be stopped. But he believes the technology poses a grave danger to democracies and gives authoritarians powerful new surveillance capabilities.

A.I. is particularly good at producing instruments of control that help closed societies to surveil their subjects, the billionaire financier wrote in a recent Project Syndicate essay.

The 92-year-old wrote that the world faces a polycrisis with many sources, but the main ones, in order of importance, are A.I., climate changes, and Russias invasion of Ukraine.

The hedge-fund pioneer noted that Geoffrey Hinton, widely considered the godfather of A.I.," resigned from Google so that he could speak freely about the risks posed by the technology. Hintons warning that A.I. will surpass human intelligence in five to 20 years and realize that it achieves its goals better if it becomes more powerful made a big impression on me, Soros wrote.

A.I. a 'mortal threat'

While Soros agrees with experts that A.I. should be regulated, he also thinks regulations have to be globally enforceable given the temptation to gain an advantage by evading them. But he added that unfortunately, global regulations are unattainable given the conflict between open and closed societies. (In the former, he says, the role of the state is to defend the freedom of the individual, while in the latter the role of the individual is to serve the interests of the rulers.)

Nobody can predict where [artificial intelligence] will take us, he wrote. But we can be sure of one thing: A.I. helps closed societies and poses a mortal threat to open societies. For that reason, he added, hes instinctively opposed to A.I., even as he doesnt know how it can be stopped.

Yesterday Open Society Foundations, the juggernaut nonprofit founded by Soros, said it will cut at least 40% of its staff in the months ahead. Soros, long a bogeyman for the far right, has donated more than $32 billion to the organization, which helps liberal causes ranging from climate change initiatives to criminal justice reform.

Earlier this month, Soros ceded control of the organization to his 37-year-old son Alex, who told the Wall Street Journal hes more political than his father and will keep pumping money to the left as long as the other side is doing it.

The elder Soros wont likely be around to see how A.I. plays out in the decades ahead. But he stands a good chance of witnessing next years U.S. elections, where he believes A.I. will undoubtedly play an important role, one which is unlikely to be anything but dangerous.

He added, A.I. is very good at producing disinformation and deep fakes and there will be many malicious actors. What can we do about that? I dont have the answer, but I hope this issue will receive the attention it deserves.

This story was originally featured on Fortune.com

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Gunmen stormed a Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) parish in Abule-Ori, Obafemi Owode Local Government Area of Ogun, killing the pastor and abducting seven members of the church.

The Commander of Ogun State So-Safe Corps, Soji Ganzallo, confirmed the incident to journalists in Abeokuta on Sunday.

Mr Ganzallo explained that officials of the corps, however, rescued the seven church members and killed one of the kidnappers during a rescue operation.

According to a statement made available to journalists by the So-Safe Director of Information and Public Relations, Moruf Yusuf, Mr Ganzallo was reported as saying that the incident occurred at about 12:00 midnight on Saturday.

The Owode-Egba Zonal Command of the corps, under Jimoh Omoniyi, received a distress call that some members of the RCCG, Desires of Nations Parish, under Ogun Province 22, Abule-Ori in Obafemi Owode Local Government Area were attacked during a vigil.

That seven members of the church were kidnapped and the pastor killed.

Officers of the Corps were charged to go after the suspects to rescue the victims unhurt and the officers swung into action immediately, he said.

Mr Ganzallo disclosed that the seven victims were rescued unhurt, while one of the kidnappers was killed, saying many of the suspects sustained serious injuries during a fire exchange.

He said that a joint team of the police and the So-Safe Corps were already after the fleeing kidnappers to capture them alive.

The commander said that the body of the dead kidnapper had been deposited in a nearby morgue.

(NAN)

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One week after his death in an auto crash, the Association of Communication Scholars and Professionals of Nigeria (ACSPN) released the burial details and plans to immortalise the late Professor of Communication, Lai Oso.

The association, which Mr Oso served as its president between 2014 and 2020, said it is also working with other media organisations and civil societies to raise support for the family of the deceased.

Mr Oso had in 2020 handed over the associations leadership baton to another egghead and Vice-Chancellor of the Federal University, Kashere, Gombe State, Umaru Pate.

Mr Pate described the death of his predecessor as a collective loss of immense proportions, saying the deceased was a highly respected intellectual giant.

Since Mr Osos demise on 24 June, the celebration of his contributions in academic and professional circles has continued to flood the Nigerian media space, even as well-wishers have continued to troop to his country home in Sagamu, Ogun State, to commiserate with his wife, Abimbola Oso, children and family members.

Other funeral details

In a statement shared by the ACSPN Secretary and Vice-Chancellor of Caleb University, Imota, Lagos State, Nosa Owens-Ibie, the remains of Mr Oso will be interred on Friday, 14 July, on the fourth day of the funeral programmes.

The first day of the programme, the statement said, will feature a special session of tribute, which will be held at the deceaseds last place of work- Faculty of Communication and Media Studies (FCMS), Lagos State University (LASU), Ojo, on 11 July.

Meanwhile, an event tagged; Prof. Lai Oso: A Day of Tributes is scheduled to be held on 12v July in Abeokuta, Ogun State capital, and other locations, including communication schools and media houses, among others.

On the third day of the programme  13 July  a wake will be held at Mercy Hall, Sagamu, by 4.00 p.m.

Activities to honour Mr Oso

ACSPN gave some highlights of plans already developed to honour the communication scholar, noting that a delegation of the body visited the former leaders home to commiserate with the family.

Mr Owens-Ibie also disclosed that a team of university lecturers, coordinated, among others, by Eserinune Mojaye of the National Open University of Nigeria, and Muyiwa Popoola of Ajayi Crowther University, Oyo, are vigorously rallying resources to support the family.

Media, civil society efforts

According to the statement, the groups collaborating to immortalise Mr Oso includes Wole Soyinka Centre for Investigative Journalism, PREMIUM TIMES, International Press Centre (IPC), African Centre for Media and Information Literacy (AFRICMIL), and Diamond Awards for Media Excellence (DAME).

ACSPN also disclosed that it plans to have a special session in honour of Mr Oso during its 10th annual conference, already slated to hold between 6 and 7 September in Abuja, Nigerias federal capital territory (FCT).

ACSPN added that a book project in honour of Prof Oso is to be published, noting that it would include major contributors and contributions from scholars and professionals across Nigeria and beyond.

It said the required announcements would be made as appropriate.

Some other activities would be unveiled by other entities in appreciation of Prof Osos contributions, going forward, the statement said.

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The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) has explained why corps members are yet to receive their June allowances a day after the month ended.

Nigerians who have completed their bachelors degree and Higher National Diploma programmes are legally mandated to participate in a youth service scheme for 12 months in any state other than their states of origin.

During the 12 months, the corps members are entitled to a monthly allowance of N33,000, a little above Nigerias current minimum wage.

Serving corps members are, however, yet to receive their June allowances until the second day of July.

Reasons for delay

The NYSCs Director, Press and Public Relations, Eddy Megwa, in a statement, blamed the development on the various banks used by the corp members.

According to Mr Megwa, the management of the NYSC remitted the corps members allowances to the banks a few days before the end of the month.

For the avoidance of doubt, the Scheme completed all arrangements for the payment of corps members allowance since the 27th of June, and remittances made the same day to various banks accordingly. The delay currently experienced is due to the administration of funds by various banks who are yet to credit corps members accounts.

Mr Megwa, however, stated that the management is already interfacing with the banks to ensure speedy processing of the allowances.

In line with the above, NYSC management is assiduously interfacing with the banks to fast-track the payment of corps members June allowance without further delay.

He also urged corps members to remain calm and be law-abiding and dutiful in their respective places of national service, saying, the scheme will continue to treat issues relating to their welfare with utmost priority.

Qosim Suleiman is a reporter at Premium Times in partnership with Report for the World, which matches local newsrooms with talented emerging journalists to report on under-covered issues around the globe

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After three weeks of legal fireworks sparked by the move by Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi to invalidate the outcome of the 23 February election at the Presidential Election Petition Court in Abuja, President Bola Tinubu and his party, the All Progressive Congress (APC), are set to open their defence on Monday.

Nigerias electoral commission, INEC, also a respondent in the cases pending at the court, will commence its defence of the outcome of the election before the five-member panel of the court headed by Haruna Tsammani on Monday.

Mr Tinubu of the APC emerged as Nigerias 16th leader in a fiercely contested election on 25 February.

He defeated Atiku of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), the Labour Partys Mr Obi and 15 other contenders in the disputed race.

Five petitions were filed at the court to challenge the election outcome in the wake of the announcement of the results. But the number of petitions dropped to three after two were withdrawn by those who filed them.

So far, Atiku, Mr Obi and the Allied Democratic Party (APM) have closed their cases by calling witnesses and tendering documents to support their allegations of widespread irregularities and manipulation of results during the poll.

Specifically, the petitioners accused INEC of rigging the entire process in favour of Mr Tinubu and his APC party.

Proving electoral fraud in Nigeria is a herculean task, owing to the countrys vast electoral field, with 176,974 polling units as of the recent general election.

However, this years exercise was distinct owing to the level to which technology was deployed in the conduct of the election. Yet, the final collation and announcement of the presidential election results were delayed for almost a week.

The poll was held on 25 February across many states of the federation, but the exercise was rescheduled in other areas due to violence and logistical issues, leading to INECs eventual declaration of Mr Tinubu winner of the poll on 1 March.

Atikus outing in court

With a legal team comprising dozens of lawyers, including a battery of Senior Advocates of Nigeria (SANs), Atiku called his first witness on 30 May, a day after Mr Tinubu was sworn in as president at Eagles Square in Abuja.

Atikus legal team, headed by Chris Uche, a SAN, tendered tons of electoral documents numbering 118 exhibits before the court.

The documents were certified true copies of the results of the presidential election from the 36 states of the country and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

To substantiate his claims, Atikus team also presented records of the number of permanent voter cards (PVC) used for the election across the 36 and printouts of data obtained from the Bimodal Voters Accreditation System (BVAS) machines- a technology used in the conduct of the election.

The BVAS machines and the INEC Results Viewing (IReV) portal were innovations of the electoral commission to boost Nigerias electoral integrity and credibility.

But INECs failure to upload the photographic copies of polling station results forms one of the major grounds of the petition.

Key witnesses

In aid of his case, Atiku called subpoenaed, star and expert witnesses totalling 27 at the close of his case on 23 June.

As the subpoenaed witnesses, mostly INEC ad-hoc presiding officers, took the witness box, they alleged that the electoral umpire failed to electronically transmit polling units results of the presidential election in real-time to the INEC Results Viewing (IReV) portal on 25 February when the poll was held.

Two polling unit presiding officers  Friday Egwuma and Grace Timothy  were engaged by INEC to conduct the disputed poll.

But they were subpoenaed by the five-member court based on the request of Atikum

They recounted their experiences at different polling stations where they presided over the election.

According to them, the photographic copies of the results of the National Assembly election, held simultaneously with the presidential poll, were successfully uploaded to the INEC IReV portal.

But they said the attempts to do the same for the presidential election as stipulated in the electoral commissions guidelines for the conduct of the polls failed.

Another contentious issue before the court is the integrity of data stored on Bimodal Voters Accreditation System (BIVAS) machines from the presidential election.

Hitler Nwala, a digital forensic analyst subpoenaed to testify as Atikus expert witness, said he inspected and analysed 110 BVAS machines used for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) election.

Mr Nwala said he found out that INEC deleted results on all the BVAS machines he inspected but didnt know when the deletion was done.

Equally critical at the defence stage of the suits will be Mr Tinubus legal teams capacity to counter allegations of forgery of academic records and impersonation against the president.

At the tail end of the presentation of his case, Atiku called Mike Enahoro-Ebah, a star witness, who narrated how he obtained several documents detailing Mr Tinubus biodata.

Mr Enahoro-Ebah, who identified himself as a public interest litigator, told the court that his lawyer in the US obtained Mr Tinubus academic records from Chicago State University.

Mr Enahoro-Ebah alleged that there were discrepancies in Mr Tinubus academic records both at the Chicago State University and the South West College in the US.

He tendered Mr Tinubus transcripts from the South West College in the US. He added that the transcripts, issued in 1977, identified Mr Tinubu as female.

The court admitted the documents as exhibits.

In addition, the court admitted a notarised judgement of criminal forfeiture of Mr Tinubus assets over alleged drug trafficking in the US.

Another star witness in Atikus case, Dino Melaye, who is a former senator and PDP candidate in the forthcoming 11 November Kogi State governorship election.

He alleged wrongful computation of the presidential election results while testifying before the court.

Obis case

At the court, Mr Obi called 13 out of the 50 witnesses he had proposed to call to prove his case against Mr Tinubu.

In the suit, Mr Obis legal team led by Livy Uzoukwu, a SAN, tendered several electoral documents comprising BVAS reports, IRev reports, video exhibits, polling stations results, Vice President Kashim Shettimas nomination form, a copy of $460,000 forfeiture judgment, reports of polling stations where elections did not hold and record of PVCs collected.

Witnesses

Contrary to INECs claim, Obis expert witness, Mpeh Ogar, told the court that a report of the health status of Amazon Web Services, which hosts the INEC IReV portal, showed no technical glitches on 25 February 2023.

Ms Ogar, a cloud engineer and architect at Amazon Web Services Incorporated, said the INECs IReV portal did not experience any glitches to justify the failure to upload real-time the polling unit results of the 25 February presidential election.

The commission had, in a statement issued a day after the polls by its Commissioner for Voter Education, Festus Okoye, blamed unexpected technical glitches for the commissions inability to ensure real-time uploading of results to the IReV portal as provided in the guidelines for the election

Mr Obi and his party had alleged that INECs inability to upload the photographic copies of result sheets from polling stations to the IReV portal in real-time during the election was one of the breaches that marred the polls.

Another witness, Lawrence Nwakaeti, a lawyer from Anambra State, told the court that Mr Tinubu was fined in the US for allegedly trafficking in narcotics.

Mr Obis lawyer, Jibrin Okutepa, a SAN, tendered some court documents purporting to be the US courts decision awarding $460,000 fine against Mr Tinubu for illicit drugs trafficking imposed by the United States District Court, Northern District of Illinois, Eastern Division.

A thread that runs through the narratives of many of the witnesses that testified for Atiku and Mr Obi was the failure of INEC to promptly upload photographic copies of polling units presidential election results.

APMs case

Meanwhile, the Allied Peoples Movement (APM) concluded its case after calling one witness to prove its petition against INEC, Mr Tinubu and the APC.

Its case involved an alleged double nomination against Mr Shettima as Mr Tinubus running mate in the presidential election.

Expectations

As proceedings are due to continue on Monday, the respondents  Mr Tinubu and the APC have a week to prove their case, while INEC has five days to defend its case.

Based on the report of the prehearing sessions, Mr Tinubus lead lawyer, Wole Olanipekun, a SAN, had said he was prepared to defend his clients victory with a total of 39 witnesses in all the pending cases.

The APC, represented by Lateef Fagbemi, a SAN, disclosed that the party would present 25 witnesses to defend its victory.

While on its part, INEC informed the court that it would call two witnesses.

Background

Atiku came second with 6,984,520 votes. During the presidential election, he led in 12 states.

Atiku won in Katsina, Kebbi, Sokoto, Kaduna, Gombe, Yobe, Bauchi, Adamawa and Taraba states. He also won in Osun, Akwa Ibom and Bayelsa states.

Mr Obi came third in the election with 6,101,533 votes, winning 11 states and the FCT, Abuja.

Mr Obi won in Edo, Cross River, Delta, Lagos, Plateau, Imo, Ebonyi, Nasarawa, Anambra, Abia and Enugu States, and the FCT.

Rabiu Kwankwaso of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) came fourth with 1,496,687 votes. He won in only Kano state.

But Mr Tinubu won the election in Rivers, Borno, Jigawa, Zamfara, Benue, Kogi, Kwara, Niger, Osun, Ekiti, Ondo, Oyo and Ogun states.

INEC had on 1 March declared Mr Tinubu the winner of the election with 8,794,726 votes. Mr Tinubu led in only 12 of the 36 states of the federation.

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President Bola Tinubu has rejected the report of the European Union Election Observation Mission (EU-EOM), describing it as a product of a poorly done desk job.

He said the EU did not provide any substantial evidence viable enough to question the integrity of the 2023 election outcomes.

Presidential spokesperson Dele Alake stated this position in a statement on Sunday.

Nigeria held its general election in February and March. Supplementary elections were also held in April.

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) declared the candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Bola Tinubu, the winner of the 25 February presidential poll.

Mr Tinubu defeated 17 other candidates to emerge winner and was inaugurated on 29 May.

His victory is however being challenged in court by the candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Atiku Abubakar, and the Labour Party (LP), Peter Obi.

EU-EOM report

The EU-EOM, in its final report on the poll last Tuesday, said though the elections showed the commitment of Nigerians to democracy, it also exposed enduring systemic weaknesses and therefore signal a need for further legal and operational reforms to enhance transparency, inclusiveness, and accountability.

It added that shortcomings in law and electoral administration hindered the conduct of well-run and inclusive elections and damaged trust in INEC.

Jaundiced report

Mr Alake said Mr Tinubu and his team have rejected any notion or idea from the EU that the election was fraudulent.

We strongly reject, in its entirety, any notion and idea from any organisation, group and individual remotely suggesting that the 2023 election was fraudulent, the statement said.

He said they were convinced that what EU-EOM called the final report on our recent elections is a product of a poorly done desk job that relied heavily on a few instances of skirmishes in less than 1000 polling units out of over 176,000 where Nigerians voted on election day.

Mr Alake reiterated that the 2023 general elections, most especially the presidential election, won by Mr Tinubu were credible, peaceful, free, fair and the best organised general elections in Nigeria since 1999.

He added, Our earlier position that the technology-aided 2023 general elections were the most transparent and best organised elections since the return of civil rule in Nigeria has been validated by all non-partisan foreign and local observers such are the African Union, ECOWAS, Commonwealth Observer Mission and the Nigerian Bar Association.

Earlier alert

Mr Alake recalled that in May the Tinubu campaign organisation had in a statement alerted the nation to a plan by a continental multilateral institution to discredit the polls and the main target was the presidential election won by Mr Tinubu.

While we did not mention the name of the organisation in the said statement, we made it abundantly clear to Nigerians how this foreign institution had been unrelenting in its assault on the credibility of the electoral process, the sovereignty of our country and on our ability as a people to organise ourselves.

We find it preposterous and unconscionable that in this day and age, any foreign organisation of whatever hue can continue to insist on its own yardstick and assessment as the only way to determine the credibility and transparency of our elections, he said.

INEC had also condemned the EU report, describing it as unfair on its overall performance during the 25 February and 11 March general elections conducted in Nigeria.

INEC kicks

It is not fair to judge the entire performance of the commission on the basis of a glitch in the result upload for the presidential election, INEC spokesperson Festus Okoye said in a television interview.

He argued that the the glitch in downloading the presidential election result was not a solid reason to question the electoral bodys performance during polls.

Read the full statement by Mr Alake below.

STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE

WE REJECT EUROPEAN UNIONS CONCLUSIONS ON 2023 GENERAL ELECTIONS

Sometimes in May, we alerted the nation, through a press statement, to the plan by a continental multi-lateral institution to discredit the 2023 general elections conducted by the Independent National Electoral Commission. The main target was the presidential election, clearly and fairly won by the then candidate of All Progressives Congress, Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

While we did not mention the name of the organisation in the said statement, we made it abundantly clear to Nigerians how this foreign institution had been unrelenting in its assault on the credibility of the electoral process, the sovereignty of our country and on our ability as a people to organise ourselves. We find it preposterous and unconscionable that in this day and age, any foreign organisation of whatever hue can continue to insist on its own yardstick and assessment as the only way to determine the credibility and transparency of our elections.

Now that the organisation has submitted what it claimed to be its final report on the elections, we can now categorically let Nigerians and the entire world know that we were not unaware of the machinations of the European Union to sustain its, largely, unfounded bias and claims on the election outcomes.

For emphasis, we want to reiterate that the 2023 general elections, most especially the presidential election, won by President Bola Tinubu/All Progressives Congress, were credible, peaceful, free, fair and the best organised general elections in Nigeria since 1999.

There is no substantial evidence provided by the European Union or any foreign and local organisation that is viable enough to impeach the integrity of the 2023 election outcomes.

It is worth restating that the limitation of EU final assessment and conclusions on our elections was made very bare in the text of the press conference addressed by the Head of its Electoral Observation Mission, Barry Andrews. While addressing journalists in Abuja on the so-called final report, Andrews noted that EU-EOM monitored the pre-election and post-election processes in Nigeria from January 11 to April 11, 2023 as an INEC accredited election monitoring group. Within this period, EU-EOM observed the elections through 11 Abuja-based analysts, and 40 election observers spread across 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory. With the level of personnel deployed, which was barely an average of one person per state, we wonder how EU-EOM independently monitored election in over 176,000 polling units across Nigeria.

We would like to know and even ask EU, how it reached the conclusions in the submitted final report with the very limited coverage of the elections by their observers who, without doubt, relied more on rumours, hearsay, cocktails of prejudiced and uninformed social media commentaries and opposition talking heads.

We are convinced that what EU-EOM called final report on our recent elections is a product of a poorly done desk job that relied heavily on few instances of skirmishes in less than 1000 polling units out of over 176,000 where Nigerians voted on election day.

We have many reasons to believe the jaundiced report, based on the views of fewer than 50 observers, was to merely sustain the same premature denunciatory stance contained in EUs preliminary report released in March.

We strongly reject, in its entirety, any notion and idea from any organisation, group and individual remotely suggesting that the 2023 election was fraudulent.

Our earlier position that the technology-aided 2023 general elections were the most transparent and best organised elections since the return of civil rule in Nigeria has been validated by all non-partisan foreign and local observers such are the African Union, ECOWAS, Commonwealth Observer Mission and the Nigerian Bar Association.

Unlike EU-EOM that deployed fewer than 50 observers, the Nigerian Bar Association that sent out over 1000 observers spread across the entire country for same election gave a more holistic and accurate assessment of the elections in their own report.

NBA, an organisation of eminent lawyers and an important voice within the civic space, reported that 91.8 per cent of Nigerians rated the conduct of the national and state elections as credible and satisfactory. Any election that over 90% of the citizens considered transparent should be celebrated anywhere in the world.

It is heart-warming that INEC, through its National Commissioner for Information and Voter Education, Mr. Festus Okoye, has come out to defend the integrity of the election it conducted by rejecting the false narratives in the EU report.

It is also gratifying that the electoral umpire, as an institution that is open to learning and continuous improvements, has also committed to taking on board more ideas, innovation and reforms that will further enhance the integrity and credibility of our electoral process.

As a country, we have put the elections behind us. President Tinubu is facing the arduous task of nation-building, while those who have reasons to challenge the process continue to do so through the courts. In just one month in office, Nigerians appear satisfied with the decisive leadership of President Tinubu and the manner he is redirecting the country to the path of fiscal sustainability and socio-economic reforms. We urge the EU and other foreign interests to be objective in all their assessments of the internal affairs of our country and allow Nigeria to breathe.

Dele Alake

Special Adviser to the President

(Special Duties, Communications and Strategy)

July 2, 2023

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Thirteen pilgrims from Nigeria have so far died in the course of the 2023 Hajj in Saudi Arabia, the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has said.

Usman Galadima, the leader of the NAHCON medical team, disclosed this in Makkah on Sunday during a post-Arafat meeting.

PREMIUM TIMES had earlier reported that six pilgrims died before the commencement of the Mishair period.

The Mishair is the main hajj exercise. It is the movement from Mina to Arafat and back to Mina. It is within this period that the major Hajj rites are performed.

In his presentation, Mr Galadima said seven pilgrims died before Mishair, while another six died during the Mishair. This means six pilgrims died within five days four in Arafat and two in Mina.

Osun and Kaduna states recorded two fatalities each, while Plateau, Kaduna, Borno Yobe, Lagos, and Benue recorded one each. Furthermore, private tour operators recorded three casualties.

To reduce the mortality rates, Mr Galadima recommended that elderly pilgrims and those that are very sick should be discouraged from going to Jamarat, the site of the stoning of the devil.

He noted that pilgrims should be encouraged to use the Jamaraat train services and that there should be thorough pre-Hajj medical screening with the issuance of a certificate of medical fitness.

Mr Galadima also disclosed that the team detected three cases of chickenpox among Nigerian pilgrims during Mishair, and they have been referred to Saudi hospitals for treatment.

The team also had five psychiatric cases, seven heat strokes, 12 severe malaria and seven cases of diabetes emergencies.

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Quite clearly, successive regimes in Nigeria have found pockets of banditry useful in the enterprise of taking and keeping power. Unsurprisingly, politicians are mostly half-hearted in fighting it. During elections in 2023, for instance, banditry nearly vanished remarkably. Immediately after the vote, it resumed with full force. It seems rather evident that in Nigeria now, the bandits and the politicians are in bed with one another.

Since well before Nigerias return to elective governance in 1999, the country has been overtaken by a progressive escalation of what Hannah Arendt in her classic On Violence called a massive intrusion of criminal violence into politics. In contemporary Nigerianism, the word for this is banditry.

Bandits is a conveniently capacious bogeyman for insecurity in Nigeria that precludes necessary questions on the provenance of the descent into lawlessness. It captures diverse elements that may include terrorists, cultists, herdsmen, kidnappers, criminal gangs, and militants.

Originally applied to the motorcycle gangs who perpetrate carnage in different parts of Nigerias North-West, bandits have now become the trope for an intolerable toll of destruction by mostly non-state entities, as well as the inexplicable haplessness of Nigerias Federal Government that has never been known to cringe at the thought of exterminating significant numbers of its citizens. This lamentable situation compels a retrospective on how what the country now calls banditry evolved.

Since independence, successive governments in Nigeria have confronted variants of banditry. The evidence over time suggests a link between governance, its failures, and what is now called banditry. As a usage, it conflates two underlying crises  government without consequences and ungoverned spaces.

In This Present Darkness, his history of organised crime in Nigeria, Stephen Ellis traces post-independence banditry in Nigeria to shortly before the civil war, when government broke down in some parts of the Western Region and there was a blurred line between political violence, crime, and organised insurgency. When the war ended in 1970, the military regime failed to manage the demobilisation programme properly.

In Southern Nigeria, which comprises a mere 29% of Nigerias nearly 924,000 km landmass, urban banditry ensued. Armed robbery in built-up areas of the country was an early manifestation. An early exponent of this was Ishola Oyenusi, a high-school dropout who chose to be called the Doctor and terrorised Lagos at the end of the Civil War. In response, the military government introduced mandatory death by firing squad for convicted armed robbers. The first public executions took place in front of Bar Beach, in Victoria Island, Lagos on 26 April 1971. Less than four-and-a-half months later, on 8 September 1971, Oyenusi was executed at the same location.

The pace of public executions quickly escalated. By 1979, Nigeria had publicly executed over 500 armed robbers by firing squad. In 1984 alone, the regime of Major-General Muhammadu Buhari shot at least 355. In 1985, it killed another 301 by firing squad. In 12 years between 1984 and 1996, over 1,200 of such executions took place.

By the 2000s, political violence and assassinations would emerge as dominant forms of outlawry. With the introduction of online banking to minimise cash-in-transit, armed robbers began stealing human beings in order to get their money. Commercial kidnapping boomed. Osisikankwu (Obioma Nwankwo) in Abia State and resource militants in the Niger Delta traded in this. In parts of South-East Nigeria, politicians and these organised crime gangs made common cause, leading government to break down.

In 1984, the response of General Muhammadu Buhari to the emergence of drug trafficking, as a new dimension to outlawry in Nigeria, was also the firing squad. Far from being mitigated, however, drug trafficking by Nigerians became more organised, more lucrative, and more violent.

In a little-noticed release on 21 December 2018, Nigerias then Defence Minister, Mansur Dan-Ali, a retired one-Star General from Zamfara State, complained: the issue of (sic) drug abuse, unemployment and governance amongst others contributes to the deplorable security situation in Zamfara State. In the same month the Buhari administration launched a Presidential Advisory Committee on the Elimination of Drug Abuse chaired by retired Brigadier Buba Marwa. The membership included the wives of both the president and the vice-president. In the four decades that separated the beginning and end of Buharis two tours of duty as head of state, Nigerias response to organised drug cartels had evolved from firing squad to pillow-talk.

It appeared that each succeeding decade saw an intensification of urban outlawry in different parts of southern Nigeria. In the 1980s, the poster-boy was Lawrence Anini, another school drop-out who concatenated indiscriminate violence with a touch of Robin Hood, in a peculiar form of advocacy for the downtrodden.

Aninis reign of terror in the then Bendel and surrounding states was facilitated by the complicity of some senior police personnel, who helped to provide his gang with intelligence and disappeared evidence against them. When two members of his gang were convicted in mid-1986, following effective police work, Anini turned his guns against the police in an intense rampage of mass killing, during which 10 police officers in Bendel State died between August and October 1986. That would prove to be his undoing.

Military President, Ibrahim Babangida, turned up the heat on then Inspector-General of Police, Etim Inyang, famously asking him during a meeting of the then ruling military council in October 1986: Where is Anini? Two months later, in December 1986, the police arrested Anini and dismantled his gang, which included George Iyamu, a Police superintendent. In March 1987, they were executed.

In the 1990s, Shina Rambo terrorised parts of South-West Nigeria with similar escapades. In South-East Nigeria, the Otokoto case in Owerri, Imo State, in 1996 revealed a netherworld of ritualised human sacrifice.

By the 2000s, political violence and assassinations would emerge as dominant forms of outlawry. With the introduction of online banking to minimise cash-in-transit, armed robbers began stealing human beings in order to get their money. Commercial kidnapping boomed. Osisikankwu (Obioma Nwankwo) in Abia State and resource militants in the Niger Delta traded in this. In parts of South-East Nigeria, politicians and these organised crime gangs made common cause, leading government to break down. In response, a bandit, vigilante horde, known as Bakassi Boys, took over the streets.

Three additional factors collaborated in launching this new phase.

Babangidas transition to civil rule programme created a mutual support network between politicians, robbers and cults. In the Niger Delta, the military regime of General Abacha introduced guns to quell civic advocacy for resource justice. In 1994, it deployed the Joint (Military) Task Force. Three decades later, the guns are everywhere and the JTF is mired in an interminable mission.

First, public universities incredibly became fertile breeding grounds for outlaws. The story originated in the competition among university-based confraternities, which forced the Pyrates Confraternity, the oldest of these confraternities in Nigeria, to leave the universities around 1986. The Supreme Eiye Confraternity (National Association of Airlords) emerged in Lagos around 1965 as a rival to the Pyrates. In Ibadan, the National Association of Sealords, better known as the Buccaneers, followed in 1972. University of Calabar produced the Klansmen Confraternity and in University of Port Harcourt, the Vikings emerged. These university cults pursue their cause with brazen audacity and outright disregard for the laws of the country.

The growth of the different groups coincided with the emergence of articulate civic activism in the universities, led by the National Union of Nigerian Students (NUNS), later known as the National Association of Nigerian students (NANS). Military rulers co-opted these cults to disrupt official student activism. Competing groups in the politics of university administration also found them useful. In the Niger Delta, Stephen Ellis recalls, they became a factor in the regions politics.

Second, mismanagement of natural resource exploitation in the country energised the transition from urban to rural banditry. Southern Kaduna, for instance, had always been rich in gemstones, including diamond, sapphire, quartz, ruby, temaline, and aquamarine. In the early-to-mid 1980s, this set off a mad rush of artisanal gemstone rustlers who invaded communities in Jemaa. The rustlers came from as far as Mali, Senegal and Sudan in search of shiny gemstones that the locals called devil stones.

In 1986, Newswatch magazines Aniete Usen reported cases of eliminating by kidnapping, sudden disappearance of dealers and diggers and a whole range of other blood-chilling tales. The barons, agents and diggers became fanatically. fully armed with automatic weapons. The weapons they brought into Southern Kaduna would feature prominently in the first Kafanchan crisis in 1987. Their methods have been evident in the descent from artisanal mining to organised banditry in Birnin-Gwari and Zamfara three decades later.

Third, Babangidas transition to civil rule programme created a mutual support network between politicians, robbers and cults. In the Niger Delta, the military regime of General Abacha introduced guns to quell civic advocacy for resource justice. In 1994, it deployed the Joint (Military) Task Force. Three decades later, the guns are everywhere and the JTF is mired in an interminable mission.

By 2008, Mujahid Asari Dokubo, asked how the armed youths in the Niger Delta who traded in violence acquired their weapons, answered the Rivers State Truth and Reconciliation Commission presided over by former Supreme Court Justice, Kayode Eso, that the guns were purchased with money disbursed by politicians.

Quite clearly, successive regimes in Nigeria have found pockets of banditry useful in the enterprise of taking and keeping power. Unsurprisingly, politicians are mostly half-hearted in fighting it. During elections in 2023, for instance, banditry nearly vanished remarkably. Immediately after the vote, it resumed with full force. It seems rather evident that in Nigeria now, the bandits and the politicians are in bed with one another.

Chidi Anselm Odinkalu, a lawyer, teaches at the Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy can be reached at chidi.odinkalu@tufts.edu.

A version of this article first appeared in December 2018 as Banditry in Nigeria: A Brief History of A Long War.

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The Bible makes an emphatic statement concerning the secret of national greatness in Proverbs 14:34: Righteousness exalts a nation, But sin is a reproach to any people.

This passage is not just an admonition to the nation of Israel but an instruction and a forewarning counsel to all nations on the earth, without distinction, and without exception. It is a universal principle. So, when the Bible says that righteousness exalts a nation, it means that righteousness brings a country into favour with God who in turn lifts up such nation. Disobedience to God and rebellion against God brings Gods curse upon a nation. God withdraws his blessings and protection from a sinful nation, and the consequences are

unimaginable. The universal testimony of history attests to the veracity of the principle that the true greatness of a nation and that which determines the progress, peace and prosperity of its future lies not in the quality of its civilized population, nor its intellectual or technological advancement, nor yet in its political sagacity and tolerance; but in the quality of its moral rectitude in all its conducts, both in its private, public and international life as dictated by national set of values of the country.

This problem of neglecting the obvious problems of our moral failure is well entrenched in our psyche as Nigerians, we will rather simply blame the leaders, while we the populace dwell in self delusion that we are fine. These sentiments are repeated over and over again by well respected Nigerians. Ill like to also quote from one of our iconic Nigerian leaders in literature because he came up with a concept that is now widely embraced by most Nigerians.

The trouble with Nigeria is simply and squarely a failure of leadership. There is nothing basically wrong with the Nigerian character. There is nothing wrong with the Nigerian land or climate or water or air or anything else. The Nigerian problem is the unwillingness or inability of its leaders to rise to the responsibility, to the challenge of personal example which are the hallmarks of true leadership.Chinua Achebe

This quotation is probably the most popularly known statement on the failure of leadership in Nigeria as a country. However, when it comes to this question of leadership, this is one area where I will beg to disagree with the doyen of Nigerian literature. Lets examine his statement in details.

Chinua Achebe wrote there is nothing basically wrong with the Nigerian character. . .  Really? As a patriotic citizen of Nigeria myself I can easily understand where Chinua Achebe is coming from when he says there is nothing basically wrong with the Nigerian character. When I read such a statement from him or any other Nigerian, I cannot but be sympathetic to their cause. The truth however is far from that statement. There are many things basically wrong with the Nigerian character until we consciously develop a system thatll change them.

The things that are wrong with our national character are not just the things that are being manifested today; many things have been wrong for a long time before now. Lets face it. We as Nigerians have issues that we must address in regards to our character and behaviors in general.

The notion that there is nothing basically wrong with the Nigerian character cannot be right by any means. Do you mean there was nothing wrong with the basics of our character when:

Our people were making human sacrifices before the emergence of missionaries on our land Most of our people were killing and murdering twin babies Our people will bury innocent citizens with their deceased kings Our elites and aristocrats sold their fellow men into slavery in their millions The rulers owned everything and the citizens owned close to nothing Our people would marry 3, 4, 5, 20 or more wives. What does that do to the psyche of our young ladies? Our people would force their daughters to go through the rituals of circumcision Tribes and people groups annihilated other groups just because of some flimsy excuses Some of our people actually practiced cannibalism Our politicians easily amass to themselves the wealth of their people while the rest of the populace live in abject poverty Students and ordinary citizens are bragging about getting an opportunity to eat of the national cake We need long leg and connection before we can get matters of significance resolved Our people are willing to take other peoples lives to make money rituals People are more afraid of witches and wizards than the God of heaven Parents families and relatives send their children for prostitution abroad Our people are willing to traffic drugs that kill other people, both within and outside the country, just for them to make money Parents bribe their way for their children to get admission into higher institutions Examination malpractice is so rampant among our students Advanced fee fraud (419) originated from our country Children are willing to sacrifice their parents and parents ready to sacrifice their children just to have money, fame or wealth

The list of those things that are wrong with the basic character of our people cannot be exhausted in this here. We all know most of them. I already referred to this when I highlighted the corrupt value system of our people. We need to address it, we need to face it. Every nation under the sun has its own issues. Those countries that have faced their issues and challenge themselves to change are those we now call civilized countries.

We want to run to these societies because they have faced and challenged their demons. They have admitted their faults and have changed their ways; hence they were able to build progressive and prosperous societies that everyone of us would rather go and live in today. As I have said earlier, our leaders are only a reflection of who we are as a people. If the vices I mentioned above and more had not been so prevalent in our nation and character, there was no way we would have produced leaders with these evils.

Sunday Adelaja is a Nigeria born leader, transformation strategist, pastor and innovator. He was based in Kiev Ukraine.

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At least 50 people have been reportedly killed and several houses burnt as fresh communal clashes erupted on Saturday in Karim Lamido Local Government in Taraba State, witnesses said.

But police said the number of casualties cannot yet be ascertained due to the inaccessibility of the terrain at the time of the findings.

The states police command spokesperson, Usman Abdullahi, said the new crisis between the Wurkuns and the Karimjos started around 3 a.m. as guerilla attacks.

In the last few days, there have been pockets of guerilla attacks in some communities in the area whereby the Karimjos attack the Wurkuns, and the Wurkuns also attack in return, or the Wurkuns attack the Karimjos, and they also attack in return, he said.

Mr Abdullahi said a joint security team of military and police personnel are already in the area to restore order.

The latest killings and destruction of properties, including houses, farmlands and domestic animals, is coming barely a week after the state governor, Agbu Kefas, met with traditional rulers and heads of security agencies on the need to foster peace.

Taraba State, like many parts of our great nation, has been grappling with the scourge of insecurity. The rising cases of banditry, kidnapping, communal clashes, and farmer-herder conflicts have caused immense pain and sufferings to our people, he said during the meeting.

The loss of innocent lives, displacement of communities and destruction of properties have cast a dark cloud over our once peaceful state. Our collective responsibility is to confront these challenges head-on and restore peace and security to our state.

In the face of such adversities, unity and collaboration becomes paramount. We must set aside our differences to embrace dialogue and work together to find a lasting solution.

Your Royal Highnesses, I implore you to harness your influence, bring your communities together, and foster an atmosphere of understanding and cooperation; by fostering peace at the grassroots, or at the grassroots level, you can pave the way for a harmonious and prosperous state as I said earlier, as the custodians of our traditions and culture, you possess a unique power to shape the hearts and minds of our people.

It is in this regard that I urge you to utilise the power to promote peace, discourage violence, and encourage youth engagement in productive activities, by leading by example and promoting the values of tolerance, respect and peaceful coexistence; we can create a society where every citizen can feel secure, and go about their productive endeavours, he said.

In May, PREMIUM TIMES reported clashes between the two ethnic groups after the appointment of a Wurkun man as the monarch in the area.

The Karimjo people felt that the appointment was unfair to them, especially after creating a new chiefdom for the Wurkuns in Bambur.

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Chinedu Onyeizu, the 2023 Labour Party (LP) candidate for Abia South senatorial district, has vowed to appeal the dismissal of his petition by the Election Petition Tribunal.

The tribunal, sitting in Umuahia, had dismissed Mr Onyeizus petition against Eyinnaya Abaribe of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) for failing to apply for pre-trial contrary to the first schedule of Electoral Act 2022.

Mr Onyeizu had approached the tribunal, challenging the declaration of Mr Abaribe as the winner of the election by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

He told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Umuahia on Friday that he was not happy with the tribunals decision.

My earlier request for the re-assignment of the case was turned down; so, I was not surprised about the tribunals decision, he said.

READ ALSO:

He said verifiable records showed that the three respondents were all given the pre-trial notice. INEC accepted, the others did not, he said.

Im escalating to the Appeal Court by Gods grace and Im expecting the court to return my case file to another panel so that they can hear my case based on merit.

The judiciary is supposed to be the last hope of the common man and I expect that to happen, the LP candidate said.

The Returning Officer for the district election, Georgina Ugwuanyi, had declared Mr Abaribe as the winner with 49,903 votes, while Mr Onyeizu came second with 43,903 votes.

(NAN)

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Goldman Sachs is thinking about breaking up with Apple after losing billions on its consumer banking push, reports say

Goldman may end its partnership with Apple. Getty Images

Goldman Sachs may be looking to end its partnership with Apple, The Wall Street Journal reported.

It started offering an Apple-branded credit card in 2019 and more products since then.

Goldman has abandoned other elements of its consumer banking push in recent months.

It seems Goldman Sachs might prefer Wall Street to main street after all.

The investment banking giant has made forays into consumer lending in recent years, but some of those have been abandoned. Now Goldman is considering breaking up with Apple too, according to a report by The Wall Street Journal.

In 2019 the bank started offering an Apple-branded credit card, and launched a savings account and "buy now pay later" service with the tech giant earlier this year.

However, Goldman's broader consumer efforts have struggled, leading to criticism of CEO David Solomon over his support of attempts to diversify away from its traditional activities.

Solomon said last October that the partnership with Apple had been extended until 2029, but those plans may now be shifting.

On Friday the Journal cited unnamed sources who said Goldman has discussed a deal that would move its Apple offerings to American Express.

CNBC later confirmed the discussions, but both CNBC and the Journal said no deal was imminent. Any change would also require Apple's approval.

In January Goldman said it'd lost about $3 billion from its consumer banking activities in three years.

The following month Solomon said the bank was considering "strategic alternatives," but had appeared committed to the Apple partnership.

Goldman may also be looking to get out of offering a General Motors-branded credit card, the Journal reported.

Goldman Sachs, Apple, and American Express did not immediately respond to requests for comment from Insider, made outside normal working hours.

Read the original article on Business Insider
XINJIANG, China , July 2, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Born in Urumqi, Northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, writer Li Dong has long been enchanted with the historical culture of his birthplace.

The region was once a thoroughfare for the ancient Silk Road, a time when it was referred to as the "Western Regions," but now it is a major hub for modern China's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).

The popular history book 400 years of Western Regions, published earlier in 2023, was Li's gift to the region. The work focuses on the exchanges between the Han people and the ancient nomadic Xiongnu tribe.

Both sides of history

Examining the history of the region during the Han Dynasty (206BC-AD220), the book gives a detailed picture of 29 Han Dynasty emperors, 36 ancient kingdoms in the Western Regions such as the mysterious Loulan Kingdom and also 39 chanyu, an exclusive title for the tribal chiefs of the Xiongnu people.

Comprising five chapters such as "The Rise of Powerful Han" and "Dominating Xiongnu," Li's book maps out the Han-Xiongnu political relationship while also including the "subtle and always shifting attitudes" of the several small kingdoms caught between the two strong forces.

"The prosperity of the Central Plains sparked infinite longing among the Western Regions. The trade route expanded upon by [Han ambassador] Zhang Qian was under control of the Xiongnu people, who enslaved those small ancient kingdoms," Li told the Global Times.

Sun Yijun, an expert in Silk Road history, told the Global Times that the nomadic Xiongnu tribe, which originated from the Mongolian Plateau, had several "back and forth rivalries" with the Han Dynasty in the region.

While Li's book is similar to many other publications that touch upon "ancient Xinjiang," Zhang Pan, the book's chief editor, told the Global Times that its narrative angle is unique as it puts "the stories of both the Han and Xiongnu people parallel to each other."

This design allows readers to see how the developments of the Central Plains had a "direct impact on the Western Region."

"Many books would take the Han people's power as a main thread, but this one covers the Han, Xiongnu and Western Kingdoms' cultural characteristics and their different strategies for coping with each other," Zhang noted.

She emphasized that these "historical complexities" are an important part of depicting how the two sides' relationship changed from "hostile to integrated."

Although the book is based on rigorous historical research, Li categorizes his book as a "popular history" that aims to reach regular readers and tell stories from history that resonate today. Many of these real historical events reveal the Han people's generosity and belief in unity and harmony.

Li wrote about the story of a Han princess named Liu Jieyou. The princess' marriage to the leader of the Wusun Kingdom has been seen as contributing greatly to bringing the Han Dynasty and the Western Regions closer.

Li described the courage of the princess as part of the "Han spirit," adding that Han people, even in ancient times, have always held values such as "sacrificing oneself for righteousness" and "promoting world peace."

Ancient trade

In the book's preface, Tang Yongcai, a 90-year-old expert in Xinjiang culture and history, wrote how the Central Plains and the Western Regions mutually nurtured each other.

"Without the Central Plains, the Western Regions could never have prospered; without the Western Regions, the Central Plains would not have had a shield of safety," Tang noted.

Li also emphasized the ancient Silk Road's importance in establishing this mutual relationship.

Over 400 years of time, trade along the ancient Silk Road was "extensive and continuous," Sun told the Global Times. Led by imperial envoy Zhang Qian, Central Plains' products such as silk, ceramics and tea were introduced to the Western Regions.

Ma Shangwen, a cultural researcher, told the Global Times that trade not only contributed to economic prosperity for both sides, but also enhanced the "mutual cultural and people-to-people understanding" between the Central Plains and Western Regions.

In the book, Li writes about a special artwork discovered in Xinjiang - a brocade armband embroidered with the characters "Five stars rise in the East, benefitting China."

The artifact refers to the ancient belief that when the five planets - Mercury, Venus, Mars, Saturn and Jupiter appear in the sky together they will bring victory to China. Ma told the Global Times that this was only one example of the many discoveries in Xinjiang that show how "social systems and beliefs" from the Central Plains had made their way to the Western Regions.

In the book's final chapter - "Peace, China's best contribution to the world" - Li wrote about how Zhang Qian's mission started with "military purpose" but ended up achieving far more culturally.

"Peace has never been begged for or given," Li noted, adding that China, as a country with the biggest population in the world, has the goal of safeguarding peace.

SOURCE Global Times
LOS ANGELES, July 2, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Wayfinder Family Services' board of directors has appointed Jay Allen as president and chief executive officer of the organization. Allen will assume the CEO role in addition to his current duties as president.

"Jay leads with heart and integrity, and I am thrilled that someone with his vision and commitment will steer Wayfinder into the organization's next phase," said Miki Jordan, Wayfinder's outgoing CEO. Jordan is retiring after 17 years of leading the organization.

Allen will lead Wayfinder Family Services, a statewide nonprofit serving more than 21,000 Californians each year. Tweet this Allen has over 30 years of experience in nonprofit and human services leadership.

Allen has dedicated more than 20 years to Wayfinder, joining in 2000 as vice president of programs. With more than 30 years of experience in nonprofit and human services leadership, he has a strong vision for Wayfinder's future. Allen shared three things he would like to accomplish as CEO:

I look forward to the day when each of Wayfinder's clients has equal access to health and well-being, educational success, economic opportunity, and safety and resilience. These four areas are the building blocks of human potential and well-being. The result will be a healthy and equitable society. We are expanding prevention services in the communities we serve. Rather than play catch-up downstream, upstream interventions can avert the need for crisis services. Also, early implementation of our whole-person approach to care will tackle the social drivers of healththe underlying social and physical conditionsthat impact the health and well-being of individuals, families and communities. I want to continue to mentor great leaders. Wayfinder's employees are outstanding, and we train some of the best leaders in the social services sector. While we hope that they all stay at Wayfinder, many of our former employees are now in charge of programs and organizations throughout the state, leading change and continuing Wayfinder's impact.

Prior to joining Wayfinder, Allen was executive director of ResCare California, which serves children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities in more than 30 sites throughout Northern California. Also, he led a division of programs serving individuals with developmental disabilities at the Fernald Center in Massachusetts.

Allen, who has a bachelor's degree in business management from Lesley University and a master's in health care administration from Framingham State University, received the Massachusetts Governor's Pride in Performance Award to recognize his participation in the development of an innovative program model for service to people with disabilities. He is a prominent speaker and trainer on topics including effective leadership, increasing influence, successful partnerships and mergers, innovative communications and superior quality management. In addition, he is a successful public-policy advocate and recently chaired the California Agencies for the Blind and Visually Impaired.

About Wayfinder Family Services

Formerly known as Junior Blind, Wayfinder Family Services is the place to turn for people facing the greatest challenges. The organization provides expert, individualized support and services to children, youth, adults and familiesfrom people with vision loss and developmental disabilities to children in need of temporary shelter, foster care and adoption. In addition, he is a successful public-policy advocate and was a longtime chair of the California Agencies for the Blind and Visually Impaired.

SOURCE Wayfinder Family Services
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Tehran, July 2 : An Iranian police officer was killed and two others injured in an operation to arrest a suspect in the southeastern Iranian province of Kerman, media reported.

The police officers were shot when they showed up with an arrest warrant at the door of a wanted person, said the report on Saturday, citing Baft County's Governor Farhad Arasteh as saying.

The "criminal" opened fire on the officers while answering the door, he said, identifying the killed officer as Javad Karimi.

The two wounded officers were sent to the hospital, he added.

Abdol-Ali Ravanbakhsh, the deputy police chief for Kerman province, told the semi-official Tasnim news agency that the suspect had fled the scene, adding further investigations into the case were underway, Xinhua news agency reported.

Baft County's prosecutor Enaiatollah Dehqani said the suspect had criminal records and used a Klashinkov rifle to kill the officer.
Bijnor : , July 2 (IANS) The Bijnor police have arrested three people for allegedly throwing meat pieces in a well, police said.

The incident took place in Peepli village under the Himpurdeepa police station area on Saturday.According to police, the locals found meat pieces in a well located in a vacant plot. The well is dry but the locals have a devotional sentiment with it.Following the incident, tension gripped the area and heavy police was deployed.

Ram Pratap Singh, Station House Officer of Himpurdeepa police station, said, "Locals reported the matter to police and a complaint was received against four people. Samples have been collected and sent to laboratories for testing. A case under IPC sections 269 and 270 (negligently doing any act) has been registered and three suspects have been arrested. One is absconding."

In another incident, meat pieces were also found near a temple in the Aurangabad area of Bulandshahr by some unidentified persons. Hindu activists have demanded police action into the matter. While no FIR has been registered, police said that an investigation is underway.--IANS

amita/khz
Stockholm, July 2 : The restart of a Swedish nuclear reactor which was due to be operational by the end of June following maintenance work has been postponed by three more weeks, media reported.

The Ringhals 3 reactor will instead restart on July 19, Johan Pettersson, a spokesperson for the electricity company Vattenfall, which owns and operates the Ringhals nuclear power plant, told Swedish Television (SVT) on Saturday.

"At the end of the maintenance period, another task was added," Pettersson said.

Another reactor, the Ringhals 4, was originally scheduled to be reconnected to the energy system last November, following repairs of a pressure vessel that was damaged in August. The restart date was pushed back several times until the reactor was eventually restarted in April this year.

But Pettersson added that the scale of the current problem is not comparable with the previous one of the Ringhals 4, Xinhua news agency reported.

Following the decommissioning of four reactors between 2017 and 2020, six reactors remain at three sites and produce around 30 per cent of the electricity in Sweden, according to the Swedish Energy Agency.

Since last summer, some of the remaining reactors have at times been offline for extended periods due to maintenance and technical problems, which has at times led to electricity price peaks.
Bhubaneswar, July 2 : One month ago, the tragic triple train accident involving Coromandel Express and Yeshwantpur Howrah Express occurred in Odisha's Bahanaga Bazaar in Balasore.

The mishap shook the entire country and devastated many families as at least 293 people were killed and over 1000 injured in India's worst train accident in the last three decades.

After the news flashed, the family members of passengers started searching for their loved ones. Over 210 people were able to identify bodies of their family members and performed their last rites. Those who found their loved ones in hospitals with injuries were lucky.

However, even though one month has passed since the incident, many families are still waiting for their family members. West Bengal's Ashok Rabidas is one of them. He is waiting for the authorities to allow him to take the mortal remains of his younger brother Krishna Rabidas (22).

After roaming from one hospital to another, Ashok Rabidas reached AIIMS Bhubaneswar where dead bodies of unidentified persons were preserved.

To identify the body of his brother Krishna, the AIIMS authority has sent DNA samples of Ashok and the concerned body to the Central Forensic Science Laboratory (CFSL) in New Delhi.

Meanwhile, DNA reports of 29 bodies matching with their claimants have been received by the AIIMS Bhubaneswar. However, Krishna's DNA report has not arrived, said Ashok.

Ashok, a native of Harischandanpur Tripletala village of Malda in West Bengal, was staying here at a guest house provided by railways. As the waiting is not over and he has to return to his work, Ashok left for his village four days back and now his brother Sibcharan Rabidas is waiting in Bhubaneswar for Krishna's body.

Sharing his story with IANS, Ashok said that Krishna worked as a daily wage labourer in Bangalore since July 2022, where he laid underground pipes. On June 2 he was returning home in the Yeshwantpur Howrah Express for his younger sister's wedding.

"My sister's wedding was scheduled for June 12. Now, it has been cancelled. Discussion was also initiated with the family members of a girl for Krishna marriage as well. We had planned to conduct Krishna's wedding after our sister's. However, the accident spoiled everything," said Ashok.

"My father and mother are completely broken down after the incident. More worrisome is that we have yet to get the body of our brother, due to which, nothing is normal in our house. Even my family members have been following all the rituals when someone dies in a Hindu family since the accident," he said.

Similarly, Sibakanta Roy from Cooch Behar district of West Bengal is in trauma as the body of his son Bipul Roy was taken away by another family from Bihar.

"I was in Arunachal Pradesh when I came to know about the accident. I immediately went home and requested our BDO to arrange a vehicle for me. He arranged it and I arrived at Balasore," Roy said.

After searching here and there, the father came across the picture of Bipul on a wall among the photographs of all deceased persons. Stunned, Sibakanta, when sought his sonas body, came to know that someone from Bihar had already taken it.

"After reaching AIIMS Bhubaneswar, I came to know that my son's body was taken by someone else. Now what can I do? asked Roy.

Out of 293 persons who died in the tragic train accident on June 2 evening, unidentified 81 dead bodies were stored in AIIMS Bhubaneswar, of which 29 have been identified through DNA testing. Another 52 bodies are yet to be identified.
Aizawl/Imphal, July 2 : The Manipur violence has added to Mizoram's refugee burden as the tiny northeastern state since 2021 has become a sanctuary for Myanmarese and Bangladeshi tribals.

Since the ethnic violence began in neighbouring Manipur on May 3, the displaced tribals have started taking shelter in Mizoram and their number has crossed 12,200.

After the military takeover in Myanmar in February 2021, thousands of Myanmarese fled to Mizoram with around 35,000 men,women and children from that country staying in the mountainous state.

Over 7,000 tribals have also sheltered in Mizoram after trouble broke out in the Chittagong Hill Tracts (CHT) of southeast Bangladesh.

The tribal refugees have fled from their native villages in the CHT after an armed conflict started in mid November last year between the Bangladesh Army and the Kuki-Chin National Army (KNA), also known as Kuki-Chin National Front (KNF).

The KNA is an underground militant outfit, demanding sovereignty for the Chin-Kukis residing in Rangamati and Bandarban districts of mountainous CHT and to protect the tribals' tradition, culture and livelihood.

The leaders of the Bangladeshi tribal refugees said that after the armed conflict with the KNA started in November last year, the Bangladesh Army accompanied by Myanmar's Arakan Army raided many villages, and assaulted and arrested many tribals while some were forcibly sent to jail. They were prevented from going from one village to another.

After the Army's crackdown, many tribals are missing, one of the tribal leaders said, adding : "We were totally unsafe in our villages. The Muslim people are boycotting us socially. We used to sell our agricultural and horticultural produce in the markets but the Muslims refused to buy anything from us."

In Christian dominated Mizoram, the tribal group is unified under one banner called 'Mizo', while in Bangladesh they are referred to as Chin-Kuki and Chin or Laimi or Zomi in Myanmar.

The Chin-Kuki tribals and the Mizos in Mizoram belong to the Zo community and share the same culture and ancestry besides they are all Christians. The Kuki-Chin community in Bangladesh belongs to the Mizo community and the Mizo tribal communities, which consist of different tribes, are sometimes known as Zofate or descendents of Zo.

Belonging to the Zo ethnic community, the tribals began trickling in after ethnic strife broke out in Manipur, where so far 125 people have been killed, 450 injured while property including houses, vehicles and shops have been either burnt or damaged in the two- month-long ethnic hostilities.

The Mizoram government has been asking the Centre to recognise the Myanmarese, sheltered in Mizoram, as refugees and grant funds to provide food and relief to all the people from Manipur, Myanmar and Bangladesh.

But the Central government is yet to provide any financial assistance for the displaced people from Manipur and the refugees from the neighbouring countries.

The people from Manipur, Myanmar and Bangladesh are lodged at relief camps in all the 11 districts in Mizoram, while a large number of them live outside the relief camps -- in relatives houses, rented houses, church complex, community centres.

Mizoram Chief Minister Zoramthanga has written two letters to Prime Minister Narendra Modi on May 16 and May 23 and sought financial support of Rs 10 crore to provide relief to the displaced people from Manipur.

Mizoram Home Commissioner cum Secretary H. Lalengmawia said that a delegation from the state led by Tourism Minister Robert Romawia recently met officials of the Union Home Ministry including Home Secretary Ajay Kumar Bhalla and requested them to release Central funds to provide relief to the displaced people.

"The response of the MHA officials' was positive. But we are yet to receive any financial support. We are expecting funds from the MHA," said Lalengmawia, who was also part of the delegation.

Amidst tribal Kuki communities, various organisations and 10 MLAs in Manipur are demanding to create separate administration (equivalent of a separate state) for the tribals, Mizoram Chief Minister Zoramthanga said that the Mizo National Front (MNF) has been working for the unification of all Zo tribes for over six decades.

Zoramthanga, who is the president of the ruling MNF, while addressing party members at Saitual last week, said that he recently told Manipur Chief Minister N. Biren Singh that his party has been sincerely trying to integrate all the tribes of the Zo community under one administrative set up since 1961.

After coming overground in 1986, the erstwhile militant outfit MNF was converted into a political party and was recognised as a state party by the Election Commission.

After the signing of the Peace Accord in 1986, ending two decades of strife and insurgency spearheaded by the MNF, Mizoram became the 23rd state of India on February 20, 1987.

The MNF supremo said that the question of unification of Mizo inhabited areas of Mizoram's neighbouring states to form one administrative set-up under the concept of "Greater Mizoram" was one of the demands of the MNF, and the issue was raised during the peace parleys with the Indian government before signing of the agreement 37 years ago.

"The unification of all ethnic Zo or Mizo tribes in India and bringing them under one administrative unit was one of the main aims of the founders of MNF, including Laldenga, who was the Chief Minister of Mizoram from August 1986 to October 1988".

The Mizoram Chief Minister, however, said that the state (Mizoram) cannot directly interfere in the internal affairs of Manipur on the issue of 'Greater Mizoram' or unification of Zo or Mizo tribal inhabited areas in Manipur with the state.

"The unification initiatives should come from 'our kindred brothers' in Manipur as the issue of unification of Chin-Kuki-Mizo-Hmar-Zomi tribes should not be imposed," he observed.

Zoramthanga's statement came close on the heels of the separate administration demand, raised by 10 Kuki MLAs of Manipur (seven of them belong to the ruling BJP), the Indigenous Tribal Leaders' Forum (ITLF) and Kuki Inpi Manipur (KIM).

The Kuki-Hmar-Mizo-Zomi-Zo ethnic group shares close ethnicity with the Mizo people in Mizoram..

Union Home Minister Amit Shah and the Manipur Chief Minister have on a number of occasions rejected the separate administration demand and categorically said that the territorial integrity of Manipur will be protected and under no circumstances it will be compromised.

(Sujit Chakraborty can be contacted at sujit.c@ians.in)
Patna, July 2 : After the grand success of the 15 parties meeting in Patna, the morale of Bihar chief minister Nitish Kumar and leaders of the Mahagathbandhan (Grand Alliance) is very high but at the same time Nitish Kumar is facing some challenges on the ground thanks to his own decisions which may turn into self goals on his own turf.

Nitish Kumar allowed TET job aspirants from other states to participate in the recruitment of teachers in Bihar. His decision became problematic after Bihar education minister Prof Chandharsheker claimed that the TET aspirants of Bihar have lesser knowledge of Math, Physics, Chemistry and English than those from other states.

Following this decision of the Nitish Kumar government, there was outrage in the state with the TET aspirants hitting the roads in Patna.

The Bihar Primary Youth Teachers Association has decided to gherao the Vidhan Sabha during its monsoon session starting July 10. They have appealed for a Maha Andolan (great revolution) in Bihar following Nitish Kumar's decision which changed the domicile policy pertaining to the recruitment of 1.70 lakh teachers in the state. Earlier, the 1.70 lakh posts were kept only for the Bihar origin CTET and BTET pass students. Now, the students of other states who have passed CTET or BTET can also be eligible for the job.

Thousands of job aspirants came out on the streets of Patna on Saturday and burnt effigies of NItish Kumar. They have demanded a roll back of the decision.

"The youths of Bihar are already facing job scarcity and the fresh move of Nitish Kumar will give their jobs to the students from other states. This is not happening in other states then why is the Bihar government doing it. Nitish Kumar will not be allowed to achieve his national political ambition at the cost of our future," said Rahul Kumar, an agitating student.

The students blocked some areas of the city during the protest on Saturday.

The leaders of the Mahagathbandhan government are facing an extremely tough situation.

When asked about the domicile policy of the Nitish Kumar government, Uday Narayan Chaudhary,RJD MLA and senior lawmaker, became angry and diverted the question asked by a reporter in his office on Friday. He argued with the media persons.

Deputy CM Tejashwi Yadav had promised to provide 10 lakh jobs during the 2020 assembly election. Now, people are asking whether those jobs are for the students of Bihar or of other states? Nitish Kumar also announced 20 lakh jobs during his Independence Day speech in Patna last year;, the students are asking whether that promise was for the unemployed youths of Bihar or of other states?.

If the opposition parties asked such questions, the ruling parties generally would not bother about it but if the common people started asking such questions, it would be worrying for the leaders of the ruling combine.

The BJP leaders are targeting Nitish Kumar because he is taking meetings of 45 MLAs, 23 MLCs and 16 MPs of the Lok Sabha in fear of a stampede which is on the cards in the JD-U. The leaders of the JD-U however said that it was just a routine meeting where the chief minister wants to know the ground reality and the mood of the voters.

Nitish Kumar is already facing a blowback for the poor implementations of prohibition, sand mining and rising incidents of crime.

Nitish Kumar is known for the politics of Lav-Kush (Kurmi-Kushwaha) equation which is anti-Yadav in Bihar. Yadav is a vote bank of Lalu Prasad Yadav and the Muslims also trust the RJD. The Muslim community does not trust Nitish Kumar wholeheartedly due to his earlier relationship with the BJP although he has not allowed any major communal violence in the state during his tenure. Even the communal violence in Sasaram and Biharsharif during Ramnavami this year was controlled within a few days.

However, there is also a buzz in the political circles of Bihar that whenever Nitish Kumar takes one to one meetings with his legislators, he takes big decisions after a few days. Last time, he had taken the meeting in June 2022 and he executed his Paltimar programme in August.

Recently, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had taken the names of several leaders for their alleged involvement in scams but had not taken the name of Nitish Kumar. BJP leader Sushil Modi also met him recently in Raj Bhavan which is a hot topic as well.
(Bloomberg) -- The Supreme Court is already planning to dive back into the culture wars and tackle the power of regulatory agencies in Washington in the slew of new cases its taking up in the fall.

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After ending its 2022 term with far-reaching decisions striking down affirmative action in college admissions, tossing a student loan relief plan, and backing a business opposing same-sex marriage, the justices are poised to hear cases on gun rights and administrative authority. They might also delve back into the abortion debate.

Here are the cases to watch.

Chevron Doctrine

Conservatives who have spent years pushing to rein in federal bureaucrats will have a shot at victory as the Supreme Court considers toppling the so-called Chevron doctrine, a 39-year-old precedent that critics say has fueled an explosion of government overreach.

The doctrine  once supported by conservatives  gives federal agencies latitude to interpret ambiguous laws. If the justices overturn the precedent, there are vast implications for government regulations and presidential authority, potentially touching issues from climate change to finance to corporate power.

The case, Loper Bright Enterprises v. Raimondo, centers on four New Jersey fishing companies that asked the court to overturn the watershed 1984 Chevron v. Natural Resources Defense Council ruling. That decision said courts should defer to administrative agencies when they offer a reasonable interpretation of an unclear statute.

SEC, CFPB Questions

The Supreme Court will review a pair of cases focused on the structure and constitutionality of some federal agencies.

The court will review a ruling that cast doubt on the Securities and Exchange Commissions use of in-house judges to handle cases. And separately, it will consider a case centered on whether the Consumer Financial Protection Bureaus funding system is constitutional.

In SEC v. Jarkesy, the justices will consider the legitimacy of in-house judges at federal agencies. A lower court ruled that Congress violated the Seventh Amendment, which protects the right to a jury trial in civil lawsuits, by letting the SEC ask an administrative law judge to impose penalties rather than going to federal court.

In CFPB v. Community Financial Services Association, the court will also consider whether the agencys funding system  which does not go through annual congressional appropriations  is constitutional. The decision in the case could impact a slew of other federal agencies that receive their funding in similar ways, including the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation and the Comptroller of the Currency.

Guns and Domestic Violence

The Supreme Court will decide the fate of a federal law barring gun possession by people who are subject to domestic-violence restraining orders. The Biden administration is appealing a ruling that declared the 1994 law unconstitutional.

The case, US v. Rahimi, will test the high courts decision last year establishing a constitutional right to carry a handgun in public. The case revolves around Zackey Rahimi, who was indicted under the law after taking part in five shootings near Arlington, Texas, in 2020 and 2021. Rahimi was subject to a two-year restraining order secured by an ex-girlfriend he was accused of assaulting and threatening.

Abortion Pill

The Supreme Court earlier this year preserved access to mifepristone. But the fight has continued in lower courts and its likely to return to the high court, setting up the highest-stakes legal battle over abortion since the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade last year.

A conservative appeals court is considering whether to uphold a federal trial courts opinion that would suspend mifepristone. The Texas lawsuit contends the Food and Drug Administration did not adequately consider safety concerns when it allowed mifepristone to enter the market.

Social Media Laws

The Supreme Court earlier this year asked the Biden administration for input on Florida and Texas laws that would sharply restrict the editorial discretion of the largest social media platforms. The US has not yet submitted its opinion. While the high court hasnt said whether it will take up the case, it is being closely watched by the technology industry.

Two tech industry groups challenged the Republican-backed laws. The Texas law bars large platforms from discriminating based on viewpoint, while the Florida statute requires a thorough rationale for every content-moderation decision.

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis and Texas Governor Greg Abbott say the measures are needed to keep conservative voices from being silenced.

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New Delhi, July 2 : The grand reception accorded to Prime Minister Narendra Modi in the US by President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden on June 22 at the White House - to which a large number of US nationals of Indian origin were invited - demonstrated three new aspects of the US-India friendship.

These aspects are: the two largest democracies are set to lead the democratic world in facing both achallenges and opportunitiesa in the times ahead, the Americans of Indian origin are bringing pride to both nations, and the Indo-US relationship now embraces all aspects of defence and security.

These are clearly the new benchmarks set to define what looks like an irreversible friendship between the two countries.

It is indeed remarkable that there are no conceivable negatives about this relationship notwithstanding Indiaas balanced approach to the Ukraine-Russia military conflict and a strong lobby in the US questioning the alleged erosion of freedom of expression in India under the Modi regime.

In their opening remarks, both Biden and Modi referred to the democratic base of the Constitution of the two countries rooted in the words aWe the peoplea and spoke of their shared commitment to world peace and advance of democratic values.

International relations in todayas geopolitics are determined by both security and economic concerns of the nations but the geo-strategic dimensions had the overriding importance - significantly the National Security Advisors of India and the US, Ajit Doval and Jake Sullivan, were the only other invitees to the private dinner and musical evening that President Biden hosted for the Indian Prime Minster at the White House on the first night of the visit itself.

Prime Minister Modias comprehensive, informative and powerful address at the US Congress was undoubtedly the best presentation of Indiaas progress in recent years, its civilisational strength and its vision of a peaceful aone worlda. He called for a new world order- post-Covid- marked by a seamless Indo-US cooperation for economic growth, security and environmental sustainability.

His commitment to Indiaas national interests stood out as he marshalled the facts of Indiaas advance in digitalisation, the success of adirect transfersa to the poor and the mutuality of gains that would result for both the countries from American investments in India.

Modi's emphasis on India speaking with aone voicea despite its vast diversity in terms of language, customs and ways of worship was an effective counter to those who had been building a narrative of Indiaas internal adivisivenessa.

The Prime Minister pointed out that from being aa strangera in the area of defence cooperation, the US is now one of the largest defence collaborators for India.

On important geopolitical developments, the Prime Minister was characteristically upfront as he forcefully upheld the right of all stakeholders to demand aan open rules-based ordera in the Indo-Pacific and oppose any aggression and encroachment there, reiterated in the context of Ukraine-Russia military confrontation, that athis was not the era of wara and called for peaceful negations to end the ahuman miserya resulting from the conflict and made strong advocacy for full membership for African Union in the G20.

He was clearly advising President Putin to heed the call for peace negotiations with Ukraine under the UN charter but he did that without joining in the criticism of Russia for its military intervention in that country.

On China, Prime Minister Modi said that dark clouds of acoercion and confrontationa were looming large over the Indo-Pacific and left no one in doubt that India was fully committed to Quad for protecting the freedom of the region. All of this secured a complete convergence of the stand of the US and India against China as the common adversary - Indiaas unlimited cooperation with the US in areas across the spectrum - from space to ocean - gives a message to China that any aggression in the Indian Ocean would be effectively put down.

What was implicit in Indiaas approach to Russia - and this seems to have been grasped by the US-led West finally - was that nothing should be done to irreversibly push Putin into the Chinese camp as this would not be in the strategic interest of either the US or India.

Prime Minister Modi put the development agenda on top by highlighting the need for rebuilding supply chains disrupted by Covid and the Ukraine-Russia conflict and demonstrated his political will in solving problems without giving in to challenges.

He used the occasion successfully to project India as the leader of the Global South and hence a world power in its own right. He spoke in English and spoke with his heart and his address was full of alliterations therefore, made a huge impact.

It speaks of the strategic comprehension of Prime Minister Modi and his National Security Advisor that the Prime Minister used the address at the Congress to warn the world that Terrorism in whatever form should be condemned without aifs and butsa as it remained a prime threat to world security. He was in a way referring to the trap of agood terrorists and bad terroristsa the American administration had once fallen into while dealing with Pakistan. Without naming Pakistan, Prime Minister Modi specifically wanted action to be taken against countries harbouring and exporting terrorism.

The danger of terrorism is particularly live for India ever since Pakistan was successful in reinstalling the Taliban Emirate in Kabul in 2021 and the Sino-Pak axis was able to reach a give-and-take with the Taliban on Afghanistan enabling China to extend its Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) to that country.

Collaboration between Pakistan and China has become deeper after India abrogated Art 370 relating to Kashmir in August 2019 - the two hostile neighbours of India are stepping up covert operations to destabilise India internally and Chinese drones are now being used by Pak ISI to drop arms and drug consignments in the border states of Kashmir and Punjab.

The threat of radicalisation translating into the raising of Mujahideen - including suicide bombers - cannot be treated lightly as a desperate Pakistan is left only with the option of creating trouble for India.

Pakistan is now able to use militant groups across the Islamic spectrum - including not only HuM, LeT and Jaishe Mohammad but also those linked to the radical stream of Taliban, Al Qaeda and ISIS, in the proxy war against India. The precedence of how SIMI an off-spring of Jamaat-e-Islami Hind, gave rise to Indian Mujahideen (IM) is a good illustration of how faith-based terror could be churned out of communal militancy.

This US visit of Prime Minister Modi has proved to be of immense importance for the build-up it has given to the vision that in todayas conflict-ridden geopolitics, the forces of democracy can prevail over the undemocratic regimes and create a peaceful and prosperous world - the degree of unity demonstrated by the two largest democracies of the world gave credence to this global thought.

India and the US certainly looked like aequala partners in this mission and this perhaps would be the strongest point of this visit - the credit for pushing India up to this special status, squarely going to Prime Minister Modi.

The fact that under the Modi regime Indian economy rose to fifth position from the earlier tenth and that it is on its way to becoming the third largest in the quickest time is a tribute to the Prime Ministeras initiatives and strong governance.

The visit also marks a crowning glory for Indiaas handling of international relations and this would surely enhance the political standing of Prime Minister Modi at home. If the economic development of India leads to the betterment of the average Indian, the Modi regime would gain electorally too.

In India, the opposition is feeling squeezed because of the popular support enjoyed by Prime Minister Modi over and above the party's influence. The narrative of the Modi government promoting majoritarianism and authoritarianism and not giving protection to the minorities has not caught up and in a rare interaction with media in Washington, Prime Minister affirmed that there was no discrimination in India on the basis of caste, creed and region and that he believed in asabka saath, sabka vikas and sabka vishwasa thus placing his governmentas policy of putting all citizens on the same footing, on record.

Addressing a huge gathering of Indian ex-pats at Reagan Centre on the last day of his US visit, Prime Minister Modi declared that the anew journeya started by India with the US will areshape the worlda and expressed confidence that the big investments from the US will give a boost to job creation and innovation in India.

He emphasised that the multiple tech-linked accords with the US would help India break new ground.

Prime Minister must be complimented for thinking big as far as Indiaas economic growth was concerned and presenting India as a proud nation willing to partner with the US on global advancement and peace.

The messaging is timely and appropriate and in the months and years ahead, India should hope to create jobs and opportunities on a scale that should effectively tackle the problems of unemployment and poverty.

It would be unfair to suggest that Prime Minister Modi remained engaged with the world outside and did not think enough of solving these domestic issues. This visit to the US was as much about geopolitical strategies as it was for taking India to a new high in terms of economic growth and the welfare of the people.

The joint statement issued at the end of Prime Minister Modias epoch-making visit to the US specifically touched on different spheres of Indo-US cooperation in the future.

Prime Minister Modi and President Biden acknowledged that the statement represented the most expansive and comprehensive vision for progress ain the history of our bilateral relationshipa.

The statement, among other things, covered the growing bilateral education partnership, active collaboration across the full expanse of health sectors and further action to facilitate the movement of professional and skilled workers, students, investors and business travellers.

It announced that India and the US would take specific steps towards developing bilateral cooperation for strengthening economic relationships including trade ties. The two leaders reaffirmed that the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework (IPEF) is an important pillar of collective efforts to build resilience in supply chains, clean energy, effective tax administration and capacity-building measures.

Apart from propelling global growth, the two countries detailed the measures required for a deepening strategic convergence. President Biden welcomed Prime Minister Modias Lifestyle for Environment initiative(LiFE) as a successful national model and resolved to work together with him to implement the G20 High-Level Principles on Lifestyles for Sustainable Development. This is a huge compliment to the Prime Ministeras vision of translating lifestyle contributions to the amelioration of global issues of climate change, land degradation and biodiversity loss.

The two leaders expressed deep concern over the conflict in Ukraine, mourned the tragic human situation created by it and called for greater efforts to mitigate the consequences of the war in the developing world in particular. They called for respect for international law, principles of the UN charter and territorial integrity and sovereignty. They even mentioned post-conflict reconstruction of Ukraine - an idea first mooted by India.

The statement significantly did not mention Russia and this in a way legitimised Indiaas stand on the conflict. The US and India held that multilateral systems reflected contemporary realities better and recommitted themselves to empowering Quad as a partnership for the global good.

The statement made out that the Quad to be hosted in India in 2024, would be an opportunity for consolidating cooperation for an open and secure Indo- Pacific by working in partnership with regional platforms like the Indian Ocean Rim Association, Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative and ASEAN.

India has thus built a geopolitical counter to deal with any Chinese aggressiveness off the Indian Ocean through a partnership with the US.

The US visit has given a transformational lift to India as a world player in both global growth and security.

The most important part of the joint statement from the point of view of Indiaas strategic and national security concerns is the clear denunciation of global terrorism and violent extremism in all its forms and manifestations, by both US and India. Demanding concerted action against all UN-listed terror groups including Al Qaeda, ISIS, LeT, JeM and Hizbul Mujahideen, the two leaders condemned cross-border terrorism and called on Pakistan to take immediate action to ensure that no territory under its control was used for launching terror action.

President Biden joined the Indian Prime Minister in demanding strong action against those behind 26/11 and the attack on the Pathankot airbase in January 2016.

Biden administration has finally discovered the true character of the aDeep Statea in Pakistan and got over notions of agood terrorists vs bad terroristsa it once harboured to draw a line between Islamic radicals who attacked the US-led West and the India-specific terror outfits controlled by Pak ISI that made no hostile move against the US.

American administration also realised that Pakistan pretended to be a mediator in talks at Doha only with the intention of getting the Taliban Emirate reinstalled in Kabul just like what it had done in 1996 in the years following the withdrawal of the Soviet army from Afghanistan.

The visit has effectively highlighted the threat posed by the Sino-Pak axis to the entire democratic world. While diplomacy continues to contribute to the evolution of foreign policy, todayas uncertain geopolitics has made the role of Indiaas National Security Advisor particularly important as a prime determinant of international relations.

The visit of Prime Minister Modi to the US has proved this - the stand clearly shared by him with President Biden on the threat of Islamic radicalisation was extremely important. Prime Minister Modias visit to Egypt on his return has met a strategic requirement of India in dealing with this threat.

Egypt still carrying the legacy of the Shiite Fatimid empire practices moderate Islam of the kind that had facilitated the advent of Sufism. Egypt, Saudi Arabia and UAE with their new equation with Israel in I2U2, are the nodal points in the Muslim world that Prime Minister Modi on the advice of the NSA is tackling to the great advantage of India.

(The writer is a former Director of the Intelligence Bureau. Views expressed are personal)
New Delhi, July 1 : After two religious structures at Delhi's Bhajanpura Chowk area were demolished on Sunday, the police said the action was carried out with people's support.

The religious structures included a temple and a mazar, and the demolition action was meant to pave the way for a proposed road widening project, police said.

Before the demolition of the temple, Subodh Goswami, the additional DCP of North East Delhi, offered prayers in the temple. Then, the idols were respectfully taken away and only after that the demolition drive began, said the police.

DCP North East Joy Tirkey stated that the police had a conversation with the temple attendees/bhakts, and they agreed to assist the police as the demolition was being carried out to widen the road.

"It was a very peaceful operation, and even the bhakts of the temple helped us during the demolition drive. They took the idols with utmost respect. When we arrived here, we requested their cooperation. I want to emphasize that during conversation with them, they understood that the decision to widen the road was made by the religious committee of the government.

"Some matters fall under the civil administration, while my responsibility is to maintain law and order. When we spoke to the people, they agreed and even assisted us," said Joy Tirkey, DCP North East.

However, due to the seriousness of the situation, paramilitary forces were deployed in advance. Senior officials were visiting the area to monitor the situation. The police also utilized drones to monitor the entire area.
Panaji, July 2 : With the opposition parties in Goa often targeting the BJP government over the unemployment issue, Chief Minister Pramod Sawant has given a 'Mantra' of skilling, upskilling and reskilling.

Leader of Opposition Yuri Alemao had said that NITI Ayog headed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi exposed in its report that the unemployment rate in Goa is the highest in the country.

"Even the Centre for Monitoring Indian Economy (CMIE) in its latest report has stated that the unemployment rate in January 2023 is 16 per cent which is double of the national average," Alemao said.

The Goa Forward Party and the Aam Aadmi Party, who are in the opposition, have targeted the BJP government over its pre poll promise of providing jobs to the youths of Goa.

After the frequent attacks from the opposition, the BJP government had organised a two-day 'mega job fair' (private jobs). However, as only a few got employment, the Congress had again targeted the government for spending crores of rupees on organising the 'job fair'.

Since the last one year, Chief Minister Pramod Sawant has been urging unemployed youths to go in for skilling, upskilling and reskilling to get good jobs in the private sector as according to him everyone canat get government jobs.

"If Goan youths lack the skill in the tourism and hospitality sector, then outsiders will come and grab the job opportunities. There is wide scope in the tourism and hospitality sector in Goa. You will not find such scope anywhere else in the country," he said.

"The way star hotels are being established in Goa and the increasing footfall of tourists, in future Goa will become the tourism capital of India," Sawant said.

"We are targeting high-end tourists. To cater to their needs we need infrastructure and human resources. Private players are ready to build infrastructure in the state. Many people are approaching us. But we donat have that much human resource. If our youths are not skilled in these sectors then outsiders will come and grab the opportunity," Sawant said.

In June last year, Sawant had said that if youths from Himachal Pradesh, UP and Bihar can work here in the hospitality sector, then why not Goans.

"Everyone canat get a government job," he said.

"If we do a survey, during the Covid lockdown period people had started to migrate from one state to another. In Goaas hospitality sector maximum 80 per cent employees are outsiders from Himachal Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and other states. However, here people say that there are no jobs," Sawant added.

He said that everyone will not get a government job as at present 70,000 government employees are there. "More 8 to 10,000 (candidates) can be recruited as retirements take place," he said.

"Many get confused about choosing their career after completing graduation. Most of them try for jobs in any position. I have seen this in my political career since 2012. They fail to identify their talent and skill to grow in it," he said.

"There are many opportunities in the coastal belt. In the next 5 years more than 2 lakhs jobs will be created in the hospitality and tourism sector. If we donat grab these opportunities then youths from other states will grab them," Sawant said, urging the youths to skill themselves.

Sawant had said that if the youths from Himachal Pradesh, UP and Bihar can work here in the hospitality sector, then why not Goans.

Sawant, in past, has also expressed his concern over youths looking for jobs in other states and countries.

"We have got good atalenta here, but it should not go outside (in search of opportunities), it should be used for the growth of the state," he said.

"We need development and industries to create jobs. Be it Information and Technology sector, Hospitality, Electronic manufacturing or other, all such ventures are welcome," Sawant stated.

"We procure fruits, flowers, milk, chicken, mutton and many essential things from other states. People can venture into these businesses and earn, so we donat remain dependent on our neighbouring states," he said.

"After liberation we are completing 60 years. We used to import very less before 1987, now we are importing additionally, maybe because of tourism (demand). If we continue to import from others, then when will we become swayampurn," Sawant questioned.
New Delhi, July 2 : The Delhi Police on Sunday said that they have lodged a Zero FIR after a minor girl here registered a case of rape.

A senior police official said that the victim lives in North Delhi's Roop Nagar, but originally hails from Bihar, where the incident had happened.

"The complainant stated that her father and mother are working as house helps and before Holi they went to their home in Bihar' Madhubani, where one of her friends' brother was getting married.

"She met a person who made physical relations with her on the pretext of marriage. Later she along with her family came to Delhi.

"On June 29, she fell sick and on checking she found that she was pregnant. Hence the case was registered," the police said.

The official said that since the incident occurred in Madhubani, they lodged a Zero FIR and have informed the concerned police station.
Khammam : , July 2 (IANS) Former MP Ponguleti Srinivasa Reddy has alleged that the Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) government is creating hurdles for the public meeting to be addressed by former Congress chief Rahul Gandhi here Sunday evening.

He said hundreds of private vehicles hired for bringing people to the public meeting were seized by the authorities due to pressure from the ruling party.

Srinivasa Reddy, who is set to join the Congress party at the public meeting, told media persons that no matter how many hurdles the BRS creates, the public meeting will prove a huge success.

The former MP said the Telangana State Road Transport Corporation (TSRTC) refused to give buses on hire for bringing people for the public meeting. "The BRS is also stopping private vehicles from bringing people to Khammam. They have seized licences and registration certificates of 1,700 private vehicles," he said.

Srinivasa Reddy said private vehicle operators were being forced not to give their vehicles to the Congress party for the public meeting.

The former MP turned emotional while appealing to his supporters to make the public meeting a big success. He urged them to defy the attempts of the ruling party in a peaceful manner to gather in large numbers.

He said the downfall of BRS and Chief Minister KCR would start from this public meeting.

The Congress party has made elaborate arrangements for the public meeting, where Srinivasa Reddy along with his supporters will join the Congress party. The meeting will also mark the culmination of 'people's march' by Congress Legislature Party (CLP) leader Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka.

The Congress leaders are confident that the public meeting will infuse new enthusiasm in the party and give a big boost to the efforts to bring the party to power in the state.

Rahul Gandhi will be reaching Gannavaram airport at Vijayawada in Andhra Pradesh from New Delhi in the afternoon. From there, he will reach Khammam by a helicopter around 4 p.m.

Heavy rains lashed Khammam on Saturday night, disrupting the arrangements. However, the Congress leaders said this would have no impact on the conduct of the public meeting. They were hoping that there will be no rains on Sunday evening.
New Delhi, July 2 : In yet another case of electrocution, a man lost his life due to an electric shock in the basement of an under construction building in the premises of LNJP hospital here, officials said on Sunday.

The incident is similar to the one that occurred at the New Delhi railway station on June 25 when a woman died after getting electrocuted amid waterlogging due to incessant rainfall.

According to sources, the basement was filled with water, and the electrical wires were submerged in it.

A senior police official said that on Sunday, at around 9 a.m., a person was brought to the emergency room of LNJP Hospital as he had suffered an electrical shock. He was declared dead by the doctors.

"The deceased was identified as Sujeet Kumar, a resident of Samastipur, Bihar. He was working as a labourer at the construction site within the premises of LNJP Hospital.

"While he was working in the basement, he got electrocuted. He was taken to the emergency room with the help of another worker working at the site," said the police.

The official said that the crime scene was being inspected by the FSL (Forensic Science Laboratory) and the Crime team.

"The body has been preserved, and necessary legal action is being initiated," said the police.
New Delhi, July 2 : To curb the practice of fake GST invoices and bogus entities, the central government is planning to make geotagging of addresses of all companies mandatory.

Also there are plans to make biometric authentication mandatory for entities found to be risky, finance ministry sources said.

This exercise will help strengthen the GST system, they added.

Also verification of new entities during their registration needs to be more diligent, to weed out fake entities, the ministry officials have said.

To ensure this, the ministry plans to use biometric authentication through PAN and Aadhaar for risky or doubtful entities, sources said.

As per provisions of GST legislation, the address of the business entity has to be physically present.

The ministry has in fact begun pilot projects in a few states, to geotag addresses of business entities to check their veracity and soon it may become a mandatory exercise, the ministry officials said.
New Delhi, July 2 : Several days have passed since an armed robbery took place in the Pragati Maidan tunnel, leaving the police struggling to determine the exact amount stolen by four assailants on June 24. At present, the police have managed to recover approximately Rs 6 lakh from the eight accused involved in the incident.

The victim's complaint stated that the stolen amount ranged from Rs 1.5 lakh to 2 lakh, raising suspicions that it might be associated with "hawala or black money", considering that the recovered sum exceeded the reported range.

As time goes on, even the police remain uncertain about the precise amount involved in the robbery. The incident unfolded on June 24 when a delivery agent, employed by a private firm in Chandni Chowk, set out on a journey with an associate to transport a bag of cash to Gurugram.

Chandni Chowk, Kucha Ghasiram, Karol Bagh, and Chawri Bazar are areas known for their substantial cash transactions through the Angadiya System. On a daily basis, numerous cash agents come and go in these areas, handling significant sums of money.

An anonymous Angadiya (money dealer) in the Chandni Chowk area affirmed, "We hand over money to the cash agent after verifying the details, and we deal with amounts in lakhs."

According to local sources, the Angadiya System is an ancient banking system prevalent in the country, particularly in the jewellery business, and prominently observed in Delhi, Gujarat, and Mumbai. Angadiyas charge a fee for their services as they undertake the transportation of money on behalf of businessmen.

"The Angadiya system operates primarily on trust. When a businessman needs to send cash or diamonds from one place to another, they rely on their trusted Angadiyas, who have been associated with their families for generations," stated a money dealer on the condition of anonymity.

Businessmen place complete faith in the Angadiyas and take measures to ensure the safety of their valuables. The Angadiyas have established designated routes for their deliveries and prefer using trains or buses instead of flights.

"To send cash through the Angadiya System, businessmen use secret numbers known only to them and their Angadiyas. Typically, they use Rs 10 notes for this purpose. The businessman or their agent hands over a Rs 10 note to the Angadiya, with a specific number written on it, serving as an identification marker for the recipient collecting the cash.

"Upon verification, instead of receiving cash, the collector is given a diamond, document, or any pre-arranged item. The Angadiyas receive a fee for providing this service," the dealer explained.

The operation of the Angadiya System in several parts of Delhi has raised suspicions of hawala transactions, although the police are yet to confirm this.

The presence of such a money transfer system in these areas raises questions about the nature of the funds, especially considering the significant sums kept in shops located in dimly lit lanes under constant CCTV surveillance and heavy 24-hour security.
New Delhi, July 2 : A worrying trend of recent rape cases in the national capital reveal a pattern of the crime showing the accused persons are either neighbours or known to the victims.

This disturbing revelation has raised serious concerns about the safety and trust within communities and emphasises the need for heightened vigilance and preventive measures to protect potential victims.

"The Delhi Police, while investigating various rape cases, have found a disconcerting pattern where the perpetrators had close proximity to the victims. This proximity includes being neighbours or acquaintances, leading to increased vulnerability and potential exploitation of trust," said a senior police official.

"The cases of rape by close relatives or acquaintances are a matter of great concern. According to a report by the Delhi Police, over 44 percent of the cases registered with the police in the year 2019-20 involved victims who identified their rapists as either relatives or members of their family. The biggest factors contributing to the increase in rape cases are lack of education and matrimonial or family disputes. It is also about the erosion of our social and family values," said Vineet Jindal, a lawyer at the Supreme Court.

"To effectively control rape cases, the government must implement a time-bound manner of investigation and trial, which can provide a strong response to the accused in rape cases," said Jindal.

In one such incident, the Delhi Police arrested a 68-year-old man for allegedly raping a minor. The accused had taken advantage of the trust placed in him by the victim's family. The shocking revelation came to light when the accused's son, suspicious of his father's activities related to "black magic," secretly recorded the act on his mobile camera.

Disturbed by what he witnessed, the son forwarded the video to the minor's father, who promptly informed the police. An FIR was registered at a police station falling under the jurisdiction of north Delhi district, invoking relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), including punishment for 376 (rape), 506 (criminal intimidation), 354 (outraging a woman's modesty) and section 4 of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act.

Additionally, the son of the accused is also facing legal action under sections of the IT Act.

Simultaneously on June 27, another horrifying incident unfolded in Delhi's Rohini, Sector 28, where a 16-year-old girl was allegedly gang-raped by four persons in a park in the wee hours. The Delhi Police acted swiftly, apprehending three of the suspects, all of whom were locals aged between 15 and 20.

While two of the arrested suspects were adults, one was a minor. However, a fourth person remains at large, and the police are actively pursuing leads to establish their involvement and ascertain whether they are a minor.

In addition to the direct perpetrators, the police also apprehended two minor boys who allegedly witnessed the sexual assault but failed to inform the authorities. This incident underscores the importance of community awareness and the need to educate young individuals about their responsibilities in reporting such crimes.

Sadly, these recent incidents follow a similar pattern of sexual violence in Delhi. In February, a three-year-old girl was allegedly raped by two men in south Delhi's Fatehpur Beri. The distressing incident came to light when the child's mother discovered her crying in the jungle, with visible signs of trauma. The accused, hailing from Madhya Pradesh, was arrested, as he resided in the same neighborhood.

These incidents have once again raised concerns about the safety and protection of minors in Delhi. The Delhi Police, recognising the gravity of these crimes, have acted swiftly to apprehend the perpetrators and ensure that justice is served. However, the community as a whole must unite to create a safer environment for all residents, especially vulnerable individuals.
New Delhi, July 2 : A cash delivery agent and his associate were robbed in broad daylight inside the high-security tunnel in Delhi's Pragati Maidan on June 24. Four armed men on motorcycles intercepted their car, snatched a bag containing a significant amount of cash, and swiftly escaped.

The incident, captured on the tunnelas security camera, has sent shockwaves through the city, raising concerns about the safety of residents and the effectiveness of security measures.

However, the Pragati Maidan tunnel incident is not an isolated case. Delhi has witnessed a noticeable surge in robberies and snatching incidents in recent months.

On June 19, a septuagenarian man was robbed of Rs one lakh. He was dragged while resisting robbery by two bike borne assailants in northeast Delhias Harsh Vihar area. The entire incident was captured on CCTV camera.

In the CCTV footage, the victim sat as a pillion on the motorcycle, two men came towards him and tried to snatch a bag from his hand.

As per sources there have been 3,700 cases of snatchings while 740 cases of robberies have taken place in last six months in Delhi.

Notably, vehicle thefts have reached unprecedented levels, with an astonishing average of 105 vehicles stolen daily, as revealed by a comprehensive analysis of crime data.

It is important to note that these figures represent only the cases in which First Information Reports (FIRs) have been filed by the police. The actual number of these crimes may be much higher, as many incidents go unreported and are solely documented through Police Control Room (PCR) calls, which are beyond the control of law enforcement.

These snatchers and robbers, most of them armed with country made pistols, primarily target pedestrians, cyclists, and people traveling on two-wheelers or cars. The modus operandi of the criminals involves swift snatching of belongings, such as mobile phones, wallets, jewelry, and bags, often leaving the victims traumatized and physically injured.

An analysis of the street crimes recorded in recent years reveals that they are not limited to specific regions. These crimes occur with equal frequency in gated communities, open neighborhoods, and unauthorized colonies and now even recce is done by the robbers or snatchers before committing the crime, which is evident through recent Pragati Maidan tunnel armed robbery.

However, what varies is the intent and expectations of the criminals in each targeted area.

According to a senior police official, these criminals specifically target people in affluent areas like Vasant Vihar, Greater Kailash, and Defence Colony, where they focus on stealing high-end phones, robbing women wearing jewelry, and targeting businessmen carrying cash in busy markets such as Chandni Chowk, Gandhi Nagar, and Azadpur. In lower-income areas, their primary targets are gold chains and phones.

"Inadequate patrolling and lack of police presence in the national Capital exacerbate the problem, emboldening criminals to carry out their nefarious acts with relative impunity," said Aditya Okhade, a resident of Malviya Nagar.

"The rising incidents of robberies and snatchings have significantly impacted public safety and perception of security in the city. Citizens are increasingly feeling vulnerable while stepping out, especially during evening hours," he said.

"The fear of being targeted by criminals has compelled many people to alter their routines, restrict their movements, and adopt precautionary measures such as concealing valuables and avoiding secluded areas," said Sangram Singh, a resident of Rohini.

A senior Delhi Police official said that recognizing the urgency to address this growing menace, law enforcement agencies in Delhi have ramped up efforts to tackle the rising incidents of robberies and snatchings.

"We have deployed additional personnel in vulnerable areas, increased patrolling, and enhanced surveillance measures. We have also intensified intelligence gathering to identify and apprehend criminal networks involved in such crimes," the official added.
Key Insights

Using the 2 Stage Free Cash Flow to Equity, Associated British Foods fair value estimate is UK27.99

Current share price of UK19.91 suggests Associated British Foods is potentially 29% undervalued

Analyst price target for ABF is UK21.53 which is 23% below our fair value estimate

How far off is Associated British Foods plc (LON:ABF) 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. The Discounted Cash Flow (DCF) model is the tool we will apply to do this. Before you think you won't be able to understand it, just read on! It's actually much less complex than you'd imagine.

Remember though, that there are many ways to estimate a company's value, and a DCF is just one method. Anyone interested in learning a bit more about intrinsic value should have a read of the Simply Wall St analysis model.

View our latest analysis for Associated British Foods

The Model

We are going to use a two-stage DCF model, which, as the name states, takes into account two stages of growth. The first stage is generally a higher growth period which levels off heading towards the terminal value, captured in the second 'steady growth' period. To start off with, we need to estimate the next ten years of cash flows. Where possible we use analyst estimates, but when these aren't available we extrapolate the previous free cash flow (FCF) from the last estimate or reported value. We assume companies with shrinking free cash flow will slow their rate of shrinkage, and that companies with growing free cash flow will see their growth rate slow, over this period. We do this to reflect that growth tends to slow more in the early years than it does in later years.

Generally we assume that a dollar today is more valuable than a dollar in the future, and so the sum of these future cash flows is then discounted to today's value:

10-year free cash flow (FCF) estimate

2024 2025 2026 2027 2028 2029 2030 2031 2032 2033 Levered FCF (, Millions) UK912.5m UK967.0m UK1.04b UK1.15b UK1.22b UK1.27b UK1.32b UK1.35b UK1.39b UK1.41b Growth Rate Estimate Source Analyst x8 Analyst x6 Analyst x1 Analyst x1 Est @ 5.80% Est @ 4.43% Est @ 3.48% Est @ 2.80% Est @ 2.34% Est @ 2.01% Present Value (, Millions) Discounted @ 6.8% UK854 UK848 UK851 UK885 UK877 UK857 UK830 UK799 UK765 UK731

("Est" = FCF growth rate estimated by Simply Wall St)

Present Value of 10-year Cash Flow (PVCF) = UK8.3b

After calculating the present value of future cash flows in the initial 10-year period, we need to calculate the Terminal Value, which accounts for all future cash flows beyond the first stage. For a number of reasons a very conservative growth rate is used that cannot exceed that of a country's GDP growth. In this case we have used the 5-year average of the 10-year government bond yield (1.2%) to estimate future growth. In the same way as with the 10-year 'growth' period, we discount future cash flows to today's value, using a cost of equity of 6.8%.

Terminal Value (TV)= FCF 2033  (1 + g)  (r  g) = UK1.4b (1 + 1.2%)  (6.8% 1.2%) = UK26b

Present Value of Terminal Value (PVTV)= TV / (1 + r)10= UK26b ( 1 + 6.8%)10= UK13b

The total value, or equity value, is then the sum of the present value of the future cash flows, which in this case is UK22b. The last step is to then divide the equity value by the number of shares outstanding. Relative to the current share price of UK19.9, the company appears a touch undervalued at a 29% 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

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 Associated British Foods as potential shareholders, the cost of equity is used as the discount rate, rather than the cost of capital (or weighted average cost of capital, WACC) which accounts for debt. In this calculation we've used 6.8%, which is based on a levered beta of 0.800. Beta is a measure of a stock's volatility, compared to the market as a whole. We get our beta from the industry average beta of globally comparable companies, with an imposed limit between 0.8 and 2.0, which is a reasonable range for a stable business.

SWOT Analysis for Associated British Foods

Strength

Debt is not viewed as a risk.

Weakness

Earnings declined over the past year.

Dividend is low compared to the top 25% of dividend payers in the Food market.

Opportunity

Annual earnings are forecast to grow faster than the British market.

Good value based on P/E ratio and estimated fair value.

Threat

Paying a dividend but company has no free cash flows.

Revenue is forecast to grow slower than 20% per year.

Moving On:

Whilst important, the DCF calculation 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. Instead the best use for a DCF model is to test certain assumptions and theories to see if they would lead to the company being undervalued or overvalued. If a company grows at a different rate, or if its cost of equity or risk free rate changes sharply, the output can look very different. Why is the intrinsic value higher than the current share price? For Associated British Foods, we've compiled three further factors you should consider:

Risks: For example, we've discovered 1 warning sign for Associated British Foods that you should be aware of before investing here. Future Earnings: How does ABF'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 High Quality Alternatives: Do you like a good all-rounder? Explore our interactive list of high quality stocks to get an idea of what else is out there you may be missing!

PS. Simply Wall St updates its DCF calculation for every British stock every day, so if you want to find the intrinsic value of any other stock just search here.

Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com.



This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned.

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New Delhi, July 2 : The city's current criminal environment, marked by a series of alarming incidents, has severely shaken the core of society.

There has been a notable increase in crimes targeting the physical well-being of individuals, particularly sexual offences and homicides.

The notions of safety and security, once taken for granted, have become distant aspirations, especially in the nation's capital.

A 20-year-old brutally killed his girlfriend by repeatedly stabbing in the Shahbad Dairy area on May 28. The deceased 16-year-old girl, a resident of JJ Colony, was repeatedly stabbed to death by Sahil, who stabbed her more than 20 times and also hit her with a boulder.

A video of the incident went viral on social media. In the video, Sahil can be seen stabbing the girl. Around seven to eight bystanders were also present, standing and observing as he stabbed her.

"What makes the already terrifying incident, more frightening is the fact that the murder took place in full public view with people passing by and yet no one cared to call the police or for that matter intervene to save the girl," advocate Vediccaa Ramdanee said.

The Delhi Police had on June 28 filed the charge sheet running into 640 pages under Indian Penal Code (IPC) Sections 302 (murder), 354 A (punishment for sexual harassment) and 509 (word, gesture or act intended to insult the modesty of a woman), sources said.

Besides the above sections, the accused has also been charged under the Arms Act, Section 12 of POCSO (punishment for committing sexual harassment upon a child) and different Sections of the Scheduled Caste and Schedule Tribe ( Prevention of Atrocities) Act.

It seems that the Shahbad Dairy area is subjected to a curse as exactly after a month of this incident, another 16-year-old girl has been gang-raped by a group of four, including a minor.

The girl had gone to the Shahbad Dairy Park to meet a friend and it was while on their way back that the accused persons stopped and threatened them.

She was raped in turns while her friend fled the spot. Case under Sections 376 D (Gang Rape), 323 (Punishment for voluntarily causing hurt), 34 (acts done by several persons in furtherance of a common intention) and Section 6 of the POCSO Act has been registered at the Shahbad Dairy Police Station.

Though one accused is still on the run, the police apart from arresting the other three, have also apprehended two juveniles under Section 21 (Punishment for failure to report or record a case) of the POCSO Act who though being at the place of crime, failed to inform the police.

Murder (Section 302 IPC) carries the punishment of death or life imprisonment along with a fine. Sexual Harassment (Section 354 A IPC) carries a punishment for a term which may extend to 3 years or with fine or with both. Under POCSO, Sexual Harassment (Section 12) carries a punishment for a term which may extend to 3 years along with fine.

Rape (Section 376 IPC) is punishable for a term which shall not be less than 10 years but which may extend to life imprisonment along with fine. Gang-rape (Section 376 D) carries a punishment for a term not less than 20 years, which may extend to life imprisonment and with fine.

Ramdanee said: "The landmark verdict in the Nirbhaya Case has definitely not acted as a deterrent in such crimes. On the contrary, the ruthlessness with which the crimes are being committed has only worsened.

"Though amendments in the law have taken place, the spirit of the written word is yet to materialise in the form of speedy trial and justice to the victims. Even if trial commences, the punitive Sections of the law still provide for "may extend to" and "OR" when it comes to alternative punishment."

While this is there to weigh the facts of each case and then prescribe the appropriate sentence, it is often misused for the accused who deserve the maximum punishment.

The gruesome murders that grip the capital pose a challenge not only for the law enforcement agencies but also for the law makers. Are the existing laws acting as a deterrent for these crimes against the human body, be it rape or murder. The rising numbers of such heinous crimes clearly tell a different story.

"While the agencies in most cases are acting swiftly and carrying out a watertight investigation and filing robust charge sheets in the court of law to seek maximum punishment. The larger question that has to be addressed is how to curb such heinous crimes," advocate Anant Malik said.

"The judicial system needs to relook at the 'death sentence only in rarest of rare cases' stance as well as refrain from giving bail easily to perpetrators of such crimes," Ramdanee said.

A survivor of rape can only perceive it as fortunate for their case to receive the necessary attention it deserves, considering the severity of such crimes.

Although the mentioned cases have garnered media attention, numerous other instances of rape and gang rape either go unreported or receive minimal coverage, often escaping public notice.

Gang-rape of a Class 5 student by a peon and his associates, gang-rape by seniors in a school washroom, abduction and gang-rape of a 38-year-old woman for two days in Ghaziabad over a property dispute are only the tip of the ice-berg which stands not only strong but very deep.

Ramdanee opined: "As of today, it is easier to get bail in such heinous cases than cases involving economic offences. The price of life which is unquantifiable is surprisingly less than quantifiable money.

"Apart from this, there is a dire need to legislate stricter actions and punitive measures against those who are at the crime scene, yet fail to report or record the case."

"The deterrence effect of the existing laws stands questioned. In some cases we see the act is carried out in broad daylight in full public view. This is a dangerous trend and needs to be nipped in the bud or else a disaster awaits," Malik added.

The bystanders are also members of the society and not alien to the system. By legislating stringent measures against those who could have prevented the crime, yet chose not to, there can be several cases that can not only be stopped before taking place but also can prevent death of the victims by timely intervention, Ramdanee said.

"Better on ground intelligence and policing may act as a welcome change so that any suspicious activity does not escape the eye of the agencies. Swift response time by the police is another cause of concern as a life may be saved if the authorities have the bandwidth to act in time," Malik opined.

In essence, reducing the time taken to respond to reports of heinous criminal activities will undoubtedly serve as a deterrent to the intentions of predators.

While laws are already in existence and can be further strengthened to impose stricter penalties, it is the improvement of on-the-ground policing that requires attention.

--IANS

spr/ dpb
New Delhi, July 2 : The killing of gangster Tillu Tajpuria inside the highly secured Tihar jail in May has once again brought the notorious operations of gangs in Delhi and the neighboring northern states into the limelight.

Gang wars have been a longstanding phenomenon in Delhi, with the outer districts, particularly Dwarka and South West Delhi, witnessing the emergence of these criminal syndicates.

These gangs are deeply involved in organized crimes such as threats, extortion, land grabbing, and violent rivalries for dominance. To expand their nefarious operations across multiple states, they form alliances, creating a complex criminal nexus.

On April 14, two unidentified men had entered the office of Surender, district president Najafgarh Kishan Morcha of BJP Unit, and fired upon him leading to his death. The Kapil Sangwan alias Nandu - Lawrance Bishnoi gang was behind the killing to create their dominance in the area.

Rising Criminal Nexus:

Presently, two dominant gang nexuses operate in northern India, drawing their operations as far as Rajasthan, Haryana, Punjab, and even abroad in countries like Italy, Armenia, Canada, America, Dubai, the Philippines, Pakistan, Azerbaijan, and Turkey. In the age of social media, these gangs flaunt their dominance and attract millions of followers through various social media handles.

One of the significant alliances within this nexus involves Lawrence Bishnoi, a jailed gangster, and Haryana's notorious Sandeep alias Kala Jathedi. The duo is associated with other key gang members, including Rajkumar alias Raju Basodi, Naresh Sethi, and Anil Chhippi.

The initial expansion of Lawrence Bishnoi and Kala Jathedi's alliance saw collaborations with Gurugram-based Sube Gujjar and Rajasthan-based Anandpal Singh. Subsequently, they joined hands with Jitender Gogi, who met his end in a conspiracy planned by rival gangster Tillu Tajpuria.

Gogi Gang's Desperate Fight for Dominance:

Jitender Gogi, who was gunned down in a shootout inside Rohini court in September 2021, was one of the most dreaded gangsters, known for his fierce associates Kuldeep alias Fazza and Rohit Moi. Fazza, who managed to escape from police custody in March 2021, was later killed in a police encounter. Other members of the Gogi gang are currently in judicial custody. The gang, currently run by Rohit alias Moi and Deepak alias Boxer, faces intense scrutiny from law enforcement.

The Key to Gang Operations - "The Enemy's Enemy is a Friend":

A significant strategy employed by these gangs for their expansion is the principle of "the enemy's enemy is a friend." Exploiting rivalries between gangs, they form temporary alliances to strengthen their hold on territories and consolidate their power.

The recent killing of Tillu Tajpuria by members of the Gogi gang inside Tihar jail was met with a supportive Facebook post from fugitive gangster Goldy Brar, showcasing the strength of their alliances.

Fallen Rivals and Eliminated Gangs:

The Tillu Tajpuria gang, led by the eponymous gangster, had a bitter rivalry with Jitender Gogi. This enmity, which originated during the 2013 student union elections, led to numerous violent clashes that resulted in several killings, including innocent bystanders. Both Tillu Tajpuria and Jitender Gogi eventually met their end in this brutal gang rivalry.

Another prominent gang, the Neeraj Bawana gang, rose to prominence after the death of rival gang head Neetu Daboda in 2013. Since then, Neeraj Bawana expanded his gang and engaged in a series of ruthless activities. He was later arrested by the Special Cell Delhi Police in 2015, but his gang continues to have a strong presence.

The Ongoing Battle Against Gang Violence:

The gang situation in Delhi and its surrounding regions remains a significant concern for law enforcement agencies, who are consistently working to dismantle them.

(Shekhar Singh can be reached at shekhar.s@ians.in)
New Delhi, July 2 : The National Investigation Agency (NIA) is currently conducting raids at four locations in three states as part of its probe into the 'Ghazwa-e-Hind' terror module that was busted in Bihar last year involving the banned Popular Front of India (PFI).

The case involves the radicalisation of impressionable youth over various social media platforms for carrying out violent terrorist acts.

The Bihar ATS and other state police are also assisting the NIA in the matter.

A senior NIA official told IANS that raids are underway at two locations in Bihar -- Darbhanga and Patna; one location in Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh, and one location in Surat, Gujarat.

In the case, the NIA had filed a charge sheet against Marghoob Ahmad Danish before a special NIA Court in Bihar on January 6.

The case was initially registered at police station Phulwari Sharif in Patna and later re-registered by the NIA on July 22, 2022.

Danish was the admin of a WhatsApp Group 'Ghazwa E Hind,' created by a Pakistani national named Zain. He had added many individuals from India, as well as other countries, including Pakistan and Yemen, with the intention of radicalising them and forming sleeper cells to carry out terrorist activities.

Danish had created the 'Ghazwa E Hind' group on various social media platforms, including WhatsApp, Telegram, and BiP Messenger.

He had also created another WhatsApp group called 'BDGhazwa E HindBD' and had added Bangladeshi nationals.

The NIA official stated that once the raid was completed, details will be provided.
Mumbai, July 2 : The upcoming film 'The Crew', which stars Tabu, Kareena Kapoor Khan and Kriti Sanon in the lead has set its release date for March 22, 2024. The film also stars Punjabi star Diljit Dosanjh and television star Kapil Sharma.

The film has been shot in Mumbai and Abu Dhabi.

The film follows the story of three women who work and hustle to move on with life. But as they try to make their way forward, their destinies lead them to some unexpected and unwarranted situations, leading them to get caught in a web of lies.

The film also marks the collaboration between Ektaa R Kapoor and Rhea Kapoor, following their successful film, 'Veere Di Wedding'.

Directed by Rajesh Krishnan, 'The Crew' is produced by Balaji Telefilms and Anil Kapoor Films Communication Network.
New Delhi, July 2 : What is it that's commonly visible at almost all events, panel discussions, and event- advertisements organised by media houses in India? Manels

The prevalence of manels (male-only panels) at media events raises concerns about their commitment to true inclusivity and shines a spotlight on the lack of attention to ESG issues within the realm of business media. At the same breath, these media organisations publicly advocate for improved ESG behaviour, grill the industry officials on ESG journey, and carry content about ESG. No doubt, it is disheartening to witness the persisting hypocrisy about gender diversity.

India has leaders across genders, and across all industries. Yet the media focuses in inviting male experts, most of the time.

Media brands, with their influence and reach, possess a unique responsibility to lead by example, when it comes to promoting diversity and inclusivity. By consistently organising manels, media brands inadvertently marginalise and exclude women from important conversations, hindering the overall progress towards gender equality. This perpetuates a cycle where influential voices, ideas, and perspectives are disproportionately represented, undermining the goal of fostering a more inclusive and balanced society.

Today, women leaders in India are breaking barriers and shattering glass ceilings in all spheres of economic activities. From boardrooms to executive positions, every business function boasts the presence of highly accomplished and influential senior women professionals.

However, one area that continues to lag behind is the representation of women in media events, conferences, and shows. It is disheartening to witness prominent media brands perpetuating the archaic practice of assembling all-male panels, inadvertently undermining the progress achieved in promoting gender diversity. Such exclusion, not only perpetuates a skewed narrative but also silences the invaluable perspectives and experiences that women can contribute. It is time for media brands to acknowledge this detrimental trend and take proactive steps to rectify it.

ESG encompasses a wide spectrum of issues, ranging from environmental sustainability to social justice and corporate governance. The omission of gender diversity and representation from these discussions highlights a significant blind spot within the media industry's understanding of ESG. It exposes a lack of comprehensive consideration for the social aspect of ESG and raises questions about the true commitment of these brands to foster inclusive dialogue and address systemic biases.

Media brands have a critical role in shaping public opinion and influencing societal norms. They possess the power to amplify diverse voices and promote progressive agendas. By organising manels, these media brands perpetuate an exclusionary culture that disregards the invaluable perspectives and expertise of women. Such actions erode the credibility of these organisations and hinder the advancement of ESG principles they claim to champion.

The responsibility lies not only with media brands but also with event organisers, conference hosts, and show producers to actively promote gender diversity. It is imperative that they prioritise the inclusion of women in their panels, ensuring a fair and balanced representation that reflects the diverse society we live in.

Media brands must make a conscious effort to reach out to accomplished and

knowledgeable women professionals, providing them with platforms to share their expertise and insights. By doing so, they can tap into a vast pool of talent, diversify perspectives, and inspire young women to pursue careers in media and related fields. Moreover, media brands should establish clear guidelines and policies that advocate for gender diversity in their events.

It is crucial to recognise that achieving gender diversity goes beyond token representation. Instead, it requires a systemic change in the way media events are planned and organised. This shift will not only benefit women professionals but also lead to richer, more comprehensive discussions that encompass a broad range of perspectives.

As consumers of media, we also have a role to play in demanding greater gender diversity. By expressing our dissatisfaction with manels and supporting media brands that actively promote inclusivity, we can drive the necessary change. Only by challenging the status quo and breaking free from the constraints of male-dominated panels can we pave the way for a more inclusive and representative media industry, reflecting the diversity and richness of our society.

(Dr Srinath Sridharan is author, policy researcher & corporate advisor. He can be reached at Twitter: @ssmumbai)
Los Angeles, July 2 : 'Star Wars' actor Ewan McGregor received much love and adulation as he was feted with the President's Award for lifetime achievement at the 57th Karlovy Vary International Film Festival. The Scottish actor, director and producer accepted the honour in an overflowing ceremony in the festival's Grand Hall in the Czech spa town.

He was joined by his daughter Clara McGregor, his mother, and partner Mary Elizabeth Winstead.

The audience repeatedly clapped and cheered as they were treated to a reel of the actor's career highlights, with scenes from films of the Star Wars universe, 'I Love You Phillip Morris' and 'Trainspotting'.

"This is like a dream to see that," McGregor told the audience. "It was my dream as a little boy to become an actor. And that's the thing of dreams, seeing that reel."

McGregor then joked that he was going to do a bit in Czech onstage but decided against it after the reaction to his practicing Czech, as per The Hollywood Reporter.

"Somebody called for an ambulance because they thought I was having a medical emergency," he quipped. Instead, he decided to keep things short and simple, saying: "Thank you so much for being here tonight. And it means just the world to me. I believe so much in what we do as actors. I'm so fortunate to do what I love and love what I do."

McGregor, winner of a Golden Globe, an Emmy, two European Film Awards and numerous other awards, introduced his new film 'You Sing Loud, I Sing Louder', in which he appears alongside his daughter Clara. He described acting with his daughter as a highlight of what he has done.

For 'Star Wars' fans, McGregor is better known as the younger version of Jedi Master Obi-Wan Kenobi. The actor first essayed the role in 'Star Wars: Episode I a" The Phantom Menace (1999)' and most recently in the Disney+ series 'Obi Wan Kenobi'.

'You Sing Loud, I Sing Louder' premiered at South by Southwest. It is a road trip drama, inspired by the father-daughter duoas real-life stories. Clara also co-wrote the script. McGregor is currently filming the miniseries 'A Gentleman in Moscow', which he is also producing.
Thiruvananthapuram, July 2 : Senior Congress leader and leader of the opposition in Kerala legislative Assembly V.D. Satheesan said the proposal of the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) recently mooted by the Prime Minister was to divide the country and not for implementation.

Speaking to reporters in Kochi on Sunday, Satheesan said the Congress party will respond at the right time regarding this.

He said that the Uniform Civil Code would bring a lot of issues in several communities and added that even in Hindu religion the customs and traditions in different areas of the country are different and bringing them all under one umbrella was impossible.

Satheesan said that while the marriage with the maternal uncle's daughter or son in the Hindu religion was acceptable in Kerala but was taboo in the North.

He also said that the BJP government at the Centre was trying to create fissures between the Muslims and Hindus and thus foment communal divide in the country and expected to garner votes through this.

The Kerala Opposition leader called for investigation into the allegations made by former Associate Editor of CPI(M) mouthpiece, G. Sakthidharan that a killer squad was deployed by the CPI(M) to murder the present Congress president of Kerala, K. Sudhakaran.

It may be recalled that G. Sakthidharan who was earlier the Associate Editor of 'Deshabhimani' , the CPI(M) mouthpiece has strongly come out against the CPI(M) leadership, including Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and is a raging controversy in the state.

The senior Congress leader said that the Congress party would go to any extent to charge a criminal case on the revelations made by G. Sakthidharan.

Satheesan also said that he did not accept the suggestion of Congress MP, Hybi Eaden to move a private bill in Parliament to shift the capital of Kerala from Thiruvananthapuram to Kochi. Satheesan said that Thiruvananthapuram was the apt place for the capital even though he was also a person from Kochi. He said that he had called Eaden and expressed his anguish.
Los Angeles, July 2 : Director Salim Ali, who has directed the spy-thriller-espionage series 'Secret Invasion', has said the show has a darker and more grounded tone as opposed to other MCU offerings.

However, the director has said that one of the things which helped in enhancing that tone was the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war and the massive tensions between US and Russia.

According to The Hollywood Reporter: "It's coincidence, serendipity, danger and all of the above. But the thing that I like about it is that this show is meant to be real and grounded," Selim said.

"The stakes are Earth and humanity, as opposed to something off in outer space that's more abstract or fictional. So the real-life conflict between Russia and the U.S. only helps to make this story feel more real'."

The series has focused a lot on the former S.H.I.E.L.D director Nick Fury's growing age and him becoming rusty, with the final episode in the series showing how Nick Fury will now be a part of the upcoming MCU film 'The Marvels'.

When asked about how he'd fit the character into 'The Marvels', the director told The Hollywood Reporter: "Theyare not protracted conversations (with The Marvels team). It's just simply, 'Where do you need him? You need him here? Great.' And then we write into that. So that kind of stuff is very simple because itas all above my pay grade."

The plot of the series focuses on Skrull rebel leader Gravik who is trying to incite a war between the United States and Russia so that the Skrulls can take over Earth. Fighting alongside allies, which include Everett Ross, Maria Hill, and his Skrull ally Talos. Fury fights to save humanity in a race against time amidst a massive Skrull invasion.
Lucknow, July 2 : As many as 16 gangsters and their gang members have been gunned down in separate police encounters in Uttar Pradesh while 55 others, including 19 mafiosi, have been convicted and awarded death penalty and life term or sentenced with different periods of imprisonment in 42 different cases.

The state police had initiated stern action against 69 mafiosi and 1,153 of their gang members in nearly three-and-a-half-years since January 2020.

UP Police Special Director General (SDG), Law and Order, Prashant Kumar informed that the state police had been acting tough on criminals and mafia and properties worth Rs 3,516 crore procured and occupied by them, were seized and demolished or freed from illegal possession since January 2020.

Besides, the involvement of criminals and mafiosi in different government contracts and other occupations was curbed that led to the loss of over Rs 1,424 crore to them, he said.

Prashant Kumar said as many as 650 criminal cases were lodged against these elements while acting against them and at least 549 of them were arrested.

He said 239 were booked under the Goonda Act, 704 under Gangsters Act and 18 under the National Security Act. Preventive measures were taken against 336 people under provisions of 110G Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC).

The Special DG said similarly, 92 new criminal gangs were registered in the police records and vigilance was intensified on gang leaders and members.

He said history sheets of 404 criminals were opened and action of 'Zila Badar' (expulsion of regular offenders from a certain district for a certain period) was taken against 83 of them while bail of 25 criminals was cancelled and they were sent back to jail.
Kolkata, July 2 : Manoara Piyada, the daughter of slain Trinamool Congress leader Jiyarul Molla, on Sunday demanded a CBI probe into the murder of her father by unidentified gunmen in Basanti in West Bengal's South 24 Parganas district.

Interestingly, she is herself a Trinamool Congress candidate in the forthcoming elections for the three-tier panchayat system in the state scheduled to be held on July 8.

"My father, who had been associated with the youth Trinamool Congress, had been facing threats from the old-timer faction in the party. We informed the police but they did not take any action. So we do not have any more faith in the state police and we want a CBI probe into the matter. We also have faith in the Governor C.V. Ananda Bose," she told media persons.

Since Saturday evening, local residents said, pockets of Fulmalancha area in Basanti, have witnessed sporadic clashes between the supporters of two factions of the ruling party.

When Molla was returning home late Saturday night, four to five armed assailants shot him on his belly and stomach from a close range and fled the scene.

He was rushed to Canning sub- division hospital, where he was declared brought dead.

Trinamool Congress state vice-president Jaiprakash Majumdar claimed that the media was trying to create a narrative from some statements made by the grief-stricken family members of the slain Trinamool Congress leader.

With this killing, pre election death toll has risen to 12 since announcement of poll date on June 8. Maximum number of casualties (four) have been reported from South 24 Parganas district. Area-wise Bhangar in the same district has reported three casualties.
Key Insights

The projected fair value for Philip Morris International is US$152 based on 2 Stage Free Cash Flow to Equity

Philip Morris International's US$97.62 share price signals that it might be 36% undervalued

The US$113 analyst price target for PM is 26% less than our estimate of fair value

Today we will run through one way of estimating the intrinsic value of Philip Morris International Inc. (NYSE:PM) by taking the expected future cash flows and discounting them to their present value. We will use the Discounted Cash Flow (DCF) model on this occasion. Models like these may appear beyond the comprehension of a lay person, but they're fairly easy to follow.

Companies can be valued in a lot of ways, so we would point out that a DCF is not perfect for every situation. 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 Philip Morris International

Crunching The Numbers

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. Where possible we use analyst estimates, but when these aren't available we extrapolate the previous free cash flow (FCF) from the last estimate or reported value. We assume companies with shrinking free cash flow will slow their rate of shrinkage, and that companies with growing free cash flow will see their growth rate slow, over this period. We do this to reflect that growth tends to slow more in the early years than it does in later years.

Generally we assume that a dollar today is more valuable than a dollar in the future, and so the sum of these future cash flows is then discounted to today's value:

10-year free cash flow (FCF) forecast

2024 2025 2026 2027 2028 2029 2030 2031 2032 2033 Levered FCF ($, Millions) US$10.7b US$11.5b US$12.2b US$12.7b US$13.2b US$13.6b US$14.0b US$14.4b US$14.8b US$15.1b Growth Rate Estimate Source Analyst x6 Analyst x5 Est @ 5.53% Est @ 4.50% Est @ 3.79% Est @ 3.28% Est @ 2.93% Est @ 2.68% Est @ 2.51% Est @ 2.39% Present Value ($, Millions) Discounted @ 7.3% US$10.0k US$10.0k US$9.9k US$9.6k US$9.3k US$8.9k US$8.6k US$8.2k US$7.8k US$7.5k

("Est" = FCF growth rate estimated by Simply Wall St)

Present Value of 10-year Cash Flow (PVCF) = US$90b

The second stage is also known as Terminal Value, this is the business's cash flow after the first stage. The Gordon Growth formula is used to calculate Terminal Value at a future annual growth rate equal to the 5-year average of the 10-year government bond yield of 2.1%. We discount the terminal cash flows to today's value at a cost of equity of 7.3%.

Terminal Value (TV)= FCF 2033  (1 + g)  (r  g) = US$15b (1 + 2.1%)  (7.3% 2.1%) = US$296b

Present Value of Terminal Value (PVTV)= TV / (1 + r)10= US$296b ( 1 + 7.3%)10= US$146b

The total value is the sum of cash flows for the next ten years plus the discounted terminal value, which results in the Total Equity Value, which in this case is US$236b. In the final step we divide the equity value by the number of shares outstanding. Compared to the current share price of US$97.6, the company appears quite undervalued at a 36% discount to where the stock price trades currently. Valuations are imprecise instruments though, rather like a telescope - move a few degrees and end up in a different galaxy. Do keep this in mind.

dcf

Important Assumptions

The calculation above is very dependent on two assumptions. The first is the discount rate and the other is the cash flows. 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 Philip Morris International 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 7.3%, which is based on a levered beta of 0.879. 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 Philip Morris International

Strength

Debt is well covered by earnings.

Dividend is in the top 25% of dividend payers in the market.

Weakness

Earnings declined over the past year.

Opportunity

Annual revenue is forecast to grow faster than the American market.

Good value based on P/E ratio and estimated fair value.

Threat

Debt is not well covered by operating cash flow.

Total liabilities exceed total assets, which raises the risk of financial distress.

Dividends are not covered by earnings and cashflows.

Annual earnings are 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. DCF models are not the be-all and end-all of investment valuation. Preferably you'd apply different cases and assumptions and see how they would impact the company's valuation. For instance, if the terminal value growth rate is adjusted slightly, it can dramatically alter the overall result. What is the reason for the share price sitting below the intrinsic value? For Philip Morris International, there are three additional factors you should further research:

Risks: For instance, we've identified 2 warning signs for Philip Morris International that you should be aware of. Future Earnings: How does PM's growth rate compare to its peers and the wider market? Dig deeper into the analyst consensus number for the upcoming years by interacting with our free analyst growth expectation chart. Other Solid Businesses: Low debt, high returns on equity and good past performance are fundamental to a strong business. Why not explore our interactive list of stocks with solid business fundamentals to see if there are other companies you may not have considered!

PS. Simply Wall St updates its DCF calculation for every American stock every day, so if you want to find the intrinsic value of any other stock just search here.

Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com.



This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned.

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Chandigarh, July 2 : Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Sunday said the government will not pay Rs 55 lakh spent on cozy stay of dreaded criminal Mukhtar Ansari in jails of the state and will recover this money from former Chief Minister Capt Amarinder Singh and former deputy CM Sukhjinder Randhawa.

In a statement here, the Chief Minister said this was a serious crime against the state and its people, adding that those involved in it will have to pay for it.

He said for reasons best known to them both Capt Amarinder Singh and Randhawa extended largesse to notorious gangster for his comfortable stay in jails of Punjab.

Mann said why should the state waste taxpayer's money in this way just because those in power at that time had a strong bond with Ansari.

The Chief Minister said this is brazen loot of the public money which cannot be tolerated. For reasons best known to the previous regimes this notorious criminal was kept in the Ropar jail with full comforts.

Mann said apart from ensuring comfortable stay the state government ensured that this hardcore criminal does not face any sort of difficulty within the jail and escapes the legal action against him.

The Chief Minister said that surprisingly the then government spent Rs 55 lakh of taxpayers' money to safeguard the interests of this criminal lodged in the Jail.

He said this atrocious loot of the public money is totally unwarranted and undesirable, adding this open plundering of the common man's money cannot be tolerated at any cost.

He said Capt Amarinder Singh and Randhawa will have to pay this money from their own pocket else their pensions and other benefits will be stopped to recover this money.
New Delhi, July 2 : Delhi Minister Atishi on Sunday wrote another letter to Lt. Governor V.K. Saxena accusing him of not taking any action against the officials in connection with the two tragic deaths, one of an auto driver in Harsh Vihar and second at the LNJP Hospital.

She demanded that power should be transferred to the Delhi government.

In the first incident, on June 29 a driver lost his life after his auto-rickshaw fell into a water-filled pothole in Harsh Nagar. In the other incident, a man was electrocuted at a construction site at LNJP Hospital.

"In first case, the Public Works Department (PWD) officials are responsible. The second incident took place at LNJP Hospital, where a worker died due to an electric shock during construction work today. Despite these accidents, you have remained silent and inactive.

"Two days have passed since the death of the auto-rickshaw driver due to the officials' negligence, but you have neither taken any action nor spoken about it," read her letter.

She said that the L-G had the power to take action against the officials but despite it, he wasn't taking any action.

"You are sitting silently, and no action is being taken against the officials responsible for the loss of people's lives," she accused the L-G.

She further stated in the letter that for the past eight years the power over services in Delhi had been in the hands of the Lieutenant Governor, but no action has been taken against any official for doing wrong or being negligent.

"Therefore, the power to suspend officials, take action against them, and transfer them should rest with the elected government of the state. That is why we have approached the court against this black law ordinance," her letter read.

Earlier in the day, she wrote a letter to the L-G on the demolition of two religious structures.
New Delhi, July 2 : Country's largest lender State Bank of India (SBI) on Sunday launched its enhanced digital banking application, 'YONO for Every Indian' and Interoperable Cardless Cash Withdrawal (ICCW) facilities.

The facility was launched by SBI as part of the 68th Bank Day celebrations. With 'YONO for Every Indian', bank customers will have access to UPI features like Scan and Pay, Pay by contacts, Request money, among others on YONO's new avatar.

"This milestone upgrade further expands SBI's commitment to providing inclusive and customer-centric digital banking services to every Indian citizen," a statement issued by SBI said.

In 2022-23 itself, 64 per cent or 78.60 lakh savings accounts were acquired digitally through YONO. The upgraded version of the YONO app will empower customers of other banks to embark on the YONO journey, thereby encouraging them to become a part of the ever-growing SBI family, the statement added.

"With the rollout of the Interoperable Cardless Cash Withdrawal facility, both the customers of SBI and other banks can withdraw cash seamlessly from ICCW-enabled ATMs of any bank by using the 'UPI QR Cash' functionality. The transaction will be facilitated through a single-use dynamic QR code displayed on the ATM screen," the statement said.

"Users can conveniently withdraw cash by employing the Scan and Pay feature available on their UPI application. While the groundbreaking facility simplifies the cash withdrawal process, it also ensures enhanced security for customers," it added.

By eliminating the need to enter a PIN or physically handle a debit card, the ICCW facility minimises the risks associated with shoulder surfing or card cloning, the bank said.

SBI chairman Dinesh Khara said, "SBI is dedicated to offering cutting-edge digital banking solutions that empower every Indian with financial independence and convenience. The YONO app has been revamped, keeping in mind the expectations of our customers for a seamless and pleasant digital experience. This will further fulfill our goal of making the 'YONO for Every Indian' mission a reality."

--IANS

ans/svn
Short Description New Delhi, July 2 (IANS) The National Investigation Agency (NIA) on Sunday conducted raids at multiple locations across three states as part of its probe into the 'Ghazwa-e-Hind' terror module that was busted in Bihar last year and found to be being run by Pakistan-based suspects.

The official said that a total of five locations, one in Darbhanga and two in Patna (all Bihar), one in Surat (Gujarat), and one in Bareilly (Uttar Pradesh), were raided.

The official said that they have recovered incriminating materials, including digital devices (mobile phones, memory cards), SIM cards and documents, during the raids.

"The case came to light after the arrest of Marghoob Ahmad Danish alias Tahir, of Phulwari Sharif by the Bihar Police, which registered a case on July 14, 2022. The NIA took over the case on July 22, 2022. Marghoob was charge sheeted on January 6, under various sections of IPC and UA (P) Act," the official said.

The official said that the accused was found to be a member of the module, which was operated by Pakistan-based operatives, with the objective of radicalising impressionable youth for the establishment of Ghazwa-e-Hind over Indian territory.

Investigations revealed that Marghoob was the admin of a WhatsApp Group 'Ghazwa-e-Hind, created by a Pakistani national named Zain. He had added many Indians, Pakistanis, Bangladeshis, and Yemeni nationals to the group with the aim of establishing sleeper cells in the country for carrying out terrorist activities.

The accused had created various social media groups of the 'Ghazwa-e-Hind' on WhatsApp, Telegram and BiP Messenger.

He had also created another WhatsApp group in the name of 'BDGhazwa E HindBD' and had added Bangladeshi nationals to it.

Investigations further revealed that various suspects involved in the case were in contact with Pakistan-based handlers and were involved in propagating the idea of Ghazwa-e-Hind.

The NIAas raids on Sunday were conducted at the premises of these suspects across three states. Further investigation into the matter is ongoing, said the officials.
Ahmedabad, July 2 : Union Home Minister Amit Shah virtually inaugurated the Akshar river cruise floating restaurant at Sabarmati Riverfront in Ahmedabad on Sunday.

The river cruise restaurant is a joint venture of Akshar Travels, the Amdavad Municipal Corporation (AMC), and the Sabarmati Riverfront Development Corporation (SRDC).

The 162-passenger river cruise restaurant offers a captivating one and a half hour journey accompanied by a delectable meal.

Ensuring the safety of passengers, it is equipped with essential facilities such as a sprinkler system to combat fire, lifeboats, life jackets, and other safety measures.

Addressing the virtual inaugural function, Shah expressed his desire to share a meal with his family on the cruise. He enthusiastically announced that whenever he would visit Ahmedabad, he will plan to have dinner on this cruise, relishing the experience with the people of Ahmedabad.

The river cruise restaurant has added another attraction to the picturesque Sabarmati Riverfront, providing locals and tourists alike with a unique and memorable dining experience on the serene waters of the Sabarmati River.
Pune, July 2 : Appearing cool after his nephew Ajit Pawar engineered a vertical split in the party on Sunday, Nationalist Congress Party President Sharad Pawar 'thanked' Prime Minister Narendra Modi and 'blamed' the Enforcement Directorate (ED).

Addressing media persons, Pawar, 83, said that just recently, Modi had hurled allegations of corruption against the Congress-NCP.

"Today, his party has joined hands and sworn-in (as Ministers) some people from the same (NCP) party against whom Modi had pointed fingers. This means that Modi's allegations were baseless and we are now 'absolved' of all the charges. I am thankful to him for this I am happy for those facing enquiries who have taken oath today," he said.

The NCP supremo said that some of his party leaders were uneasy about the investigations by various probe agencies like ED, and after the PM's accusations they got very uneasy, prompting them to take the move on Sunday.

"However, many of those who have gone are in touch with me Some have also said how their signatures were taken. They have also said that they would make their stance clear in the next two-three days," said Pawar.

He admitted that he was not 'aware' of Ajit Pawar's resignation as the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA)'s Leader of Opposition on June 30 and blamed him for "breaking up the NCP".

Unlike the Shiv Sena-UBT led by ex-CM Uddhav Thackeray, Pawar said that he would not initiate a legal challenge to the 'split', and whatever allegations anyone may level, he would go to the peoples' court and present their stand.

He expressed strong displeasure at the NCP Working President Praful Patel and General Secretary Sunil Tatkare - whom he had appointed on June 10 but both switched over to Ajit Pawar's side  for not fulfilling their responsibilities properly that led to the split.

To a question, Pawar said that today's developments are 'nothing new' for him and recalled how, in 1986, many leaders had deserted him and he was left with just 5 people with whom he rebuilt the entire party.

"We shall rebuild the party now There is no second level now. You will soon see new leaders who are concerned about the state and country coming to the fore in the party," he declared.

Pawar also said that he has been inundated with phone calls from all over the country and among the callers were Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge and Trinamool Congress President and West Bengal CM Mama Banerjee, expressing their concerns.

In response to a query, the NCP supremo said that Sunday's upheaval doesn't indicate a 'split in the Pawar clan' and it was politics outside the family ambit.
New Delhi, July 2 : Chinese authorities in Tibet have intensified monitoring of Tibetans, and continue to interrogate them in the regional capital Lhasa to prevent communication with people outside of Tibet, a media report said.

The Chinese government has been intensifying its monitoring of Tibetans and maintained their interrogations of Tibetans living in Lhasa to determine if they have contacted people outside Tibet and stepped up surveillance measures to prevent such communication, RFA reported.

In March, two major anniversaries prompted police to step up surveillance. The month marked the 15th anniversary of a 2008 riot, and the 64th anniversary of the 1959 uprising against Chinese troops that had invaded the region a decade earlier.

But the heightened security from March has continued well into June, and police have continued closely monitoring residents in Lhasa and random searches of their cell phone and online communications to discover whether they had communicated abroad, the report added.

The police were particularly concerned that the Lhasa residents might be in contact with journalists or researchers outside of Tibet, a Tibetan resident told RFA.

"Tibetans are warned not to contact people outside and those who have, have been summoned and interrogated," the source said. "Their cell phones are confiscated and they are under constant scrutiny."

The source was among those who had contacted people outside of Tibet, and was summoned for interrogation along with some friends.
Sydney, July 2 : Opioid pain relievers have no benefit for people suffering from acute lower back and neck pain, and rather carry misuse risks, warned a study published in The Lancet.

Results of the first randomised controlled trial to investigate the safety and efficacy of opioid pain relievers for acute lower back and neck pain with a follow-up of one year, showed there was no significant difference in pain levels in patients with lower back or neck pain who were given opioid pain relievers compared to those given a placebo.

Further, it carried the risk of future dependence, misuse, and overdose.

Lower back and neck pain are very common worldwide. Clinical guidelines currently recommend opioid pain relievers for patients where other treatments have failed or are contraindicated, but there are concerns around the strength of the evidence to support this recommendation.

"Our study now suggests that they could be making patients' pain levels worse in the medium and long term. As well as not providing patients with the pain relief intended, we also know that being prescribed opioid pain relievers even for a short period of time increases the risk of opioid misuse long term," said Prof Christine Lin from the University of Sydney.

"Considering all the evidence and known risks, we firmly believe doctors should not prescribe opioid pain relievers for new episodes of lower back and neck pain.

"Lower back and neck pain can severely impact patients' quality of life, so we need to offer them the best options to help manage their pain, but opioid pain relievers do not work and carry serious risks. Instead, doctors should be encouraged to focus on patient-centred approaches that could include advice to stay active, and simple pain relievers," Lin added.

The study took place across 157 sites in Australia between 2016 and 2021. It included 347 participants who had already been experiencing lower back pain, neck pain, or both for up to 12 weeks.

All participants received guideline care (reassurance and advice to stay active), while 174 were given opioid pain relievers and the other 173 were given a placebo for up to six weeks.

There was no significant difference in pain scores at six weeks between the opioid and placebo groups  with average pain scores out of 10 being 2.8 in the opioid group compared to 2.3 in placebo group. There was no difference in overall number of participants reporting an adverse event between treatment groups, however, there were more reports of nausea, constipation, and dizziness in the opioid group.

Participants in the opioid group had a greater risk of opioid misuse after one year. Risk of misuse was significantly higher in the opioid group after one year  20 per cent compared to 10 per cent in placebo, the study showed.

--IANS

rvt/vd
New Delhi, July 2 : The Delhi Government on Sunday said that the National Capital Civil Services Authority (NCCSA), established through the Centre's Ordinance, was nothing but a farce, as bureaucrats are overturning the Chief Minister's decisions.

A meeting of NCCSA was recently held on June 29. During the meeting, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal had issued several crucial directives pertaining to pending transfer-posting proposals.

"A total of eleven women officers had requested transfers on sympathetic grounds. Chief Minister supported these requests, stating that working women handle work at both the office and home, and therefore their requests must be considered favorably on sympathetic grounds. Both the bureaucrats -- the Chief Secretary and Principal Secretary (Home) -- did not oppose the Chief Minister's stand during the meeting. However, while finalising the minutes of the meeting, the bureaucrats callously overturned all decisions of the Chief Minister, proceeding with their own agenda instead," it said.

The Delhi Government said NCCSA has been reduced to a farce with bureaucrats dictating their own will and overturning Chief Minister's decisions.

"In the same meeting, the Chief Minister proposed that the posting requests made by Ministers Saurabh Bhardwaj and Raaj Kumar Anand be recommended by the Authority. However, the bureaucrats again took advantage of their majority and refused to entertain the matter in the meeting," it said.
Mumbai, July 2 : Bollywood star Alia Bhatt, who will be soon seen sharing the screen with actor Ranveer Singh in the upcoming film 'Rocky Aur Rani Ki Prem Kahani', has shared that she shot for the song 'Tum Kya Mile' four months after the arrival of her baby girl Raha.

In the recently released video about the making of the song, the actress shared,"When I see the final result, I feel so happy that something I can proudly say that I did four months after a baby. So, I really prepped myself up to this. I really wanted it to be outstanding (sic)."

Ranbir and Alia became proud parents to baby girl Raha in November, 2022 after they tied the knot in April, 2022 at Ranbiras Vastu apartment in Pali Hill area of Mumbai.

'Rocky Aur Rani Ki Prem Kahani' marks Dharma head-honcho Karan Johar's return to direction seven years after his last outing 'Ae Dil Hai Mushkil' which starred Alia's husband Ranbir Kapoor as the lead along with Anushka Sharma and Aishwarya Rai Bachchan. The trailer of 'Rocky Aur Rani Ki Prem Kahani' will be released on July 4 with the film landing in theatres on July 28.
The analysts covering BenevolentAI S.A. (AMS:BAI) delivered a dose of negativity to shareholders today, by making a substantial revision to their statutory forecasts for this year. Revenue estimates were cut sharply as the analysts signalled a weaker outlook - perhaps a sign that investors should temper their expectations as well.

Following the latest downgrade, the four analysts covering BenevolentAI provided consensus estimates of UK9.1m revenue in 2023, which would reflect an uneasy 14% decline on its sales over the past 12 months. Losses are predicted to fall substantially, shrinking 66% to UK0.48. However, before this estimates update, the consensus had been expecting revenues of UK14m and UK0.44 per share in losses. So there's been quite a change-up of views after the recent consensus updates, with the analysts making a serious cut to their revenue forecasts while also expecting losses per share to increase.

View our latest analysis for BenevolentAI

There was no major change to the consensus price target of UK3.03, signalling that the business is performing roughly in line with expectations, despite lower earnings per share forecasts. There's another way to think about price targets though, and that's to look at the range of price targets put forward by analysts, because a wide range of estimates could suggest a diverse view on possible outcomes for the business. The most optimistic BenevolentAI analyst has a price target of UK8.48 per share, while the most pessimistic values it at UK1.51. As you can see the range of estimates is wide, with the lowest valuation coming in at less than half the most bullish estimate, suggesting there are some strongly diverging views on how think this business will perform. As a result it might not be possible to derive much meaning from the consensus price target, which is after all just an average of this wide range of estimates.

Looking at the bigger picture now, one of the ways we can make sense of these forecasts is to see how they measure up against both past performance and industry growth estimates. These estimates imply that sales are expected to slow, with a forecast annualised revenue decline of 14% by the end of 2023. This indicates a significant reduction from annual growth of 21% over the last three years. Compare this with our data, which suggests that other companies in the same industry are, in aggregate, expected to see their revenue grow 6.5% per year. So although its revenues are forecast to shrink, this cloud does not come with a silver lining - BenevolentAI is expected to lag the wider industry.

The Bottom Line

The most important thing to take away is that analysts increased their loss per share estimates for this year. Unfortunately analysts also downgraded their revenue estimates, and industry data suggests that BenevolentAI's revenues are expected to grow slower than the wider market. Often, one downgrade can set off a daisy-chain of cuts, especially if an industry is in decline. So we wouldn't be surprised if the market became a lot more cautious on BenevolentAI after today.

As you can see, the analysts clearly aren't bullish, and there might be good reason for that. We've identified some potential issues with BenevolentAI's financials, such as dilutive stock issuance over the past year. For more information, you can click here to discover this and the 2 other warning signs we've identified.

Another way to search for interesting companies that could be reaching an inflection point is to track whether management are buying or selling, with our free list of growing companies that insiders are buying.

Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com.



This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned.

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Chennai, July 2 : Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M. K. Stalin on Sunday said that the state government was taking steps to take the Tamil culture and their antiquity across the globe.

"Largest numbers of inscriptions in India were discovered in Tamil Nadu. The writing of history of the Indian subcontinent should commence from the Tamil land," the Chief Minister said while delivering a virtual address in the 36th convention of the Federation of Tamil Sangams of North America (FeTNA).

He said that the state government has taken steps for several research studies in this subject. He pointed out that the Keeladi archeological findings had brought to light the urbanization even in 6th century BC and added that there was literacy in that society.

The Chief Minister said that archeological explorations were taking place in Sivakalai, Gangakonda Cholapuram, Myladumparai in Krishnagiri district, Vembakottai in Virudhunagar district, Thullukarpattai in Tirunelveli district and Perumpulai in Dharmapuri districts of the state.

He said that findings of archeological excavations have led to the fact that in Myaladumparai iron was in use in Tamil land since 4200 years ago.

The Chief Minister also said that bull was a Dravidian symbol and added that from the Indus Valley to Alanganallur in Tamil Nadu, bulls were present.
New Delhi, July 2 : A senior citizen couple was saved by the Delhi Police from a fire incident that took place in East Delhi's Jheel Khuranja, official said.

"Hoti Lal (62) and Chandwati (62) were found trapped in on the top floor of the building where the fire broke out. The police staff lifted them on their shoulder and brought them out of the building. They were then taken to hospital. Both are safe," said the official.

According to fire department, they got a call of the incident at around 11 a.m. The official said that soon after getting the call they sent four fire tenders to the spot.

The police staff somehow managed to reach at the terrace of the building; they then broke the door of roof entrance and successfully rescued the couple.

The official said that the cause of fire was not yet known. The official said that there was no casualty.
New Delhi, July 2 : In yet another incident of capital shame, a 16-year-old girl was allegedly sexually assaulted and blackmailed by a 22-year-old man in Outer Delhi's Mundka area.

DCP outer district, Harendra Kumar Singh, said that the victim approached the police on July 1 after which the accused was held.

"It has been alleged that the girl was allegedly raped by one Salman. Both the complainant and the accused knew each other. They both work in the same factory," said the official.

The official said that the girl alleged that on June 29, the accused took her to Gurugram. She was offered a cold drink laced with sedatives. She said that she fell unconscious and when she woke up she found herself naked.

She alleged that the accused threatened her not to spill the beans. The victim said that the accused then blackmailed her and developed physical relation many times.

"We have registered a case under sections of IPC and POCSO Act at Mundka police station. Statement of victim was recorded before Magistrate under sections 164 CrPC. Accused has been arrested and sent to judicial custody," said the official.
Mumbai, July 2 : Actor Aditya Roy Kapur, who is receiving a lot of appreciation for his work in 'The Night Manager: Part 2', has shared what songs he likes to listen to on his playlist.

The actor, who is known for his films like 'Aashiqui 2', 'Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani', 'Ok Jaanu', 'Ludo' and several others, is also a musician and often strums on his guitar, honing his craft as a musician.

Talking about his favourite genres of music, the actor told IANS that he loves all forms of rock music. He said, "Classical rock, neo-classical rock, and other derivatives of rock, I absolutely love them. I also love electronic music, techno, and psychedelic trance because that's the kind of stuff that used to be big back in the day when I was growing up as a kid in Mumbai."

When asked to name his favourite guitarist, the actor thought for a few seconds before taking Pink Floyd rocker David Gilmour's name, the man behind the iconic riffs of 'Comfortably Numb' and 'Time'.

"I really love the music created by Pink Floyd with David Gilmour being one of my favourite guitarists of all time. Their music is something else, it's just heavenly", he added.

'The Night Manager: Part 2' is streaming on Disney+ Hotstar.
New Delhi, July 2 : Hours after Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) faced a split after Sharad Pawar's nephew Ajit Pawar took oath as Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister, the Congress on Sunday took a swipe at the BJP saying "its washing machine has resumed operations" while reiterating its resolve to free Maharashtra from clutches of the saffron party.

Congress General Secretary, in charge Communications Jairam Ramesh said: "Clearly the BJP's washing machine has resumed its operations. A number of new entrants into the BJP-led alliance in Maharashtra today had been facing serious corruption charges with ED, CBI and Income Tax authorities after them. Now they have all got a clean chit."

"The Congress will intensify its efforts to free Maharashtra from the clutches of the BJP," he added.

His remarks came after NCP chief Sharad Pawar, maintaining his cool over the surprise developments, "thanked" Prime Minister Narendra Modi and "blamed" the Enforcement Directorate (ED).

Addressing media persons in Pune, Pawar, 83, said that just recently, Modi had hurled allegations of corruption against the Congress-NCP.

"Today, his party has joined hands and sworn-in (as Ministers) some people from the same (NCP) party against whom Modi had pointed fingers. This means that Modi's allegations were baseless and we are now 'absolved' of all the charges. I am thankful to him for this I am happy for those facing enquiries who have taken oath today," he said.

He said that some of his party leaders were uneasy about the investigations by various probe agencies like ED, and after the PM's accusations they got very uneasy, prompting them to take the move on Sunday.

Meanwhile, Ajit Pawar, after taking oath, also staked claim over the NCP, which entered its Silver Jubilee year last month, and its symbol 'clock'. Addressing a crowded media conference, Ajit Pawar, 64, who took oath as Deputy CM for the 5th time, said that the entire NCP is with him and he had blessings of everyone in the party.
Chennai, July 2 : Around 65,087 sanitary workers of Tamil Nadu attended the medical camps for sanitary workers on Sunday.

The camp was inaugurated by Health Minister Ma Subramanian while the inaugural function was held at Government higher secondary school, Kodambakkam.

Ma Subramanian said that the camp for sanitary workers which was announced in the budget of 2022-23 has commenced.

"The camp would conduct master body checkups for the sanitary workers and the health department would provide medical treatment for those sanitary workers who were diagnosed with diseases," the minister said.

The minister said that the medical colleges would provide treatment to the sanitary workers on the base of the reports from the health camps.

He said that the state public health department would have details of the patients and would set time table for the people on when and where they should go for full body check up.

The minister said that it includes X-Ray, ECG and Ultra Sound.

He said that based on the reports, the health department would provide treatment to the patients accordingly.

Chennai Mayor R. Priya, Deputy Mayor Magesh Kumar, Greater Chennai Corporation Commissioner, J. Radhakrishnan and Health Secretary, Gagandeep Singh Bedi were also present during the inauguration at Kodambakkam High school.
Los Angeles, July 2 : Belgian rapper and director Baloji is poised to make his feature directorial film 'Omen', a supernatural folk-drama.

The movie is derived from his personal experiences as a Congolese-born European and deals with the complexities and emotions that come with inheriting two cultures, one of both his birth and the other of adopted homeland.

Witchcraft and magic are the centerpieces of the film.

Speaking to 'The Hollywood Reporter', Baloji said: aMy name, Baloji, means asorcerera in Swahili, which is a difficult name to live with. Itas like being an American named adevila."

"I did a lot of reading about witchcraft and the culture of witches in different societies. The origin of my name, actually, had meant man of science or woman of science. A healer might be the best translation in English," he added.

He continued: "But when Christianity and the colonizers came, they gave the local science negative connotations, making it like black magic. So all those things, the tradition, the language, the religion, the history and how it all comes together in personal identity, thatas the subject of Omen."

Baloji also described the film as a mix of different art forms which combine real events with imagination. He said that the perception of his work is derived from multiple art forms ranging from literature, writing, to his own job as a musician, music, as well as visual arts.

As per 'The Hollywood Reporter', the plot follows Koffi (Marc Zinga), a young Congolese man living in Europe with his white fiancAe Alice (Lucie Debay) who travels to Congo in an effort to mend his relationship with his family, particularly his mother Mujila (Yves-Marina Gnahoua).
New Delhi, July 2 : The chronicler of Delhi, Swapna Liddle, has come out with a new book that, in the words of William Dalrymple, "finally supersedes Percival Spear's classic, 'Twilight of the Mughals'." Taking a majestic sweep through the years 1803, when the army of the East India Company General, Viscount Gerard Lake, defeated the forces of Daulatrao Scindia led by a French mercenary at the Battle of Patparganj and entered Delhi, to 1857, when the last Mughal emperor involuntarily set off the events of the Revolt, 'The Broken Script' explores the forgotten facets of the intervening five decades -- or the "hybrid half-century", as Liddle describes them.

In the words of Dalrymple, Liddle has "salvaged from the ruins an outstanding new history of a great city suspended between two Empires. A brilliant work of historical scholarship."

Liddle is known for her books 'Chandni Chowk: The Mughal City of Old Delhi' and 'Connaught Place and the Making of New Delhi', apart from her edited and annotated translation of 'Sair-ul-Manazil', the first known listing of Delhi's historical monuments compiled in the 1820s by Mirza Sangin Bayg.

At the start of the 19th century, there was a Mughal emperor on the throne in Delhi, but the Mughal empire, in decline for almost a century, was practically gone, says the book's promo. A new power had emerged -- the East India Company, which captured the Mughal capital in September 1803, becoming its de facto ruler.

As two regimes overlapped, Delhi found itself at the cusp of modernity, changing in profound ways that are scarcely recognised today.

'The Broken Script', published by Speaking Tiger, describes in vivid detail the complex tussle between the last two Mughal emperors and the East India Company, one still wielding considerable symbolic authority, the other a fast-growing military and political power.

In this maelstrom of political uncertainty, Delhi saw some of its best moments, exemplified by characters such as the poet Ghalib and the self-taught mathematician Ram Chander, and of course the cultural and intellectual elite, business magnates, the old landed nobility and the exotic new ruling class -- the British.

Through their prism, Liddle looks at the economic, social and cultural climate that evolved over six decades.

She examines the great flowering of poetry in Urdu, even as attempts to use the language for scientific education faltered; the fascinating history of the Delhi College, where both Ghalib and Ram Chander taught, and how it represented a radically new model for higher education in India; the rise of modern journalism in Urdu, and various printing presses and publications, represented by papers like the 'Dehli Urdu Akhbar'; and the founding of institutions such as the Archeological Society.

All of these developments point to a fast-modernising society that was being shaped to a significant extent by Western ideas and institutions, but was also rooted strongly in indigenous systems of thought and learning.

The Revolt of 1857 and its aftermath violently disrupted this distinctive modernity, according to Liddle. Her book draws upon a variety of records -- including Urdu poetry written after the revolt was brutally suppressed, proceedings of the trials conducted by the British, private letters and newspaper reports -- for a nuanced examination of the events of 1857, challenging many commonly held and often simplistic assumptions.

In the process, 'The Broken Script' details not only the destruction wreaked upon Delhi, but also strategies for survival and early attempts to rebuild and revive individual lives and institutions.
New Delhi, July 2 : Hours after Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) split after Sharad Pawar's nephew Ajit Pawar took oath as Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister, the Congress on Sunday made a series jibes at the BJP, saying its "washing machine" has resumed operations, and its "dirty tricks department" was on an overdrive in the state.

Congress General Secretary, in charge Communications, Jairam Ramesh said: "Clearly the BJP's washing machine has resumed its operations. A number of new entrants into the BJP-led alliance in Maharashtra today had been facing serious corruption charges with ED, CBI and Income Tax authorities after them. Now they have all got a clean chit."

"The Congress will intensify its efforts to free Maharashtra from the clutches of the BJP," he added.

Congress General Secretary, Organisation, K.C. Venugopal said: "The BJP's dirty tricks department is working on overdrive in Maharashtra. This is not a legitimately elected government, but an ED-facilitated power grab. The Maharashtra government is a product of corruption and sin. The people have very well identified the traitors, corrupt and compromised leaders of Maharashtra and each of them will be taught the lessons of their lifetime in the next elections."

"On June 29, PM Modi had spoken about corruption. It appears he switched on the washing machine and these leaders are now squeaky clean after this oath taking ceremony," he said.

He also said that Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge and party leader Rahul Gandhi spoke to NCP President Sharad Pawar and extended support to him.

The Congress leaders' remarks came after Sharad Pawar maintaining his cool 'thanked' Prime Minister Narendra Modi and 'blamed' the Enforcement Directorate (ED).

Addressing media persons, Pawar, 83, said that just recently, Modi had hurled allegations of corruption against the Congress-NCP. "Today, his party has joined hands and sworn-in (as Ministers) some people from the same (NCP) party against whom Modi had pointed fingers. This means that Modi's allegations were baseless and we are now 'absolved' of all the charges. I am thankful to him for this I am happy for those facing enquiries who have taken oath today," he said.

The NCP supremo said that some of his party leaders were uneasy about the investigations by various probe agencies like ED, and after the PM's accusations, they got very uneasy, prompting them to take the move on Sunday.

Meanwhile, Ajit Pawar after taking oath, also staked claim over the NCP, which entered its Silver Jubilee year last month, and its symbol 'clock'.

Addressing a crowded media conference, Ajit Pawar, 64, who took oath as Deputy CM for the 5th time, said that the entire NCP is with him and he had blessings of everyone in the party.

--IANS

aks/vd
New Delhi, July 2 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to hold a meeting of the council of ministers on Monday, days after hectic parleys last week within the BJP top brass, amid speculations of a cabinet reshuffle.

The meeting is scheduled to take place at the newly renovated Pragati Maidan' convention centre, sources aware of developments said.

The development is also taking place when the monsoon session of the Parliament is scheduled to begin from July 20 onwards.

If any reshuffle has to take place, then it may have to happen before the Parliamentary session. Also the last cabinet reshuffle had taken place in July 2021, i.e. two years back.

Political circles went abuzz with speculations over cabinet reshuffle and even organisational changes within the BJP, after Modi met Home Minister Amit Shah and party President J.P. Nadda on June 28.

That meeting had taken place after Shah and Nadda had met separately earlier. Having lost in Karnataka and crucialAassembly polls lined up in Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh and Telangana, followed by 2024 Lok Sabha elections, the July 3 meeting holds a lot of political significance.

Also with a coalition of opposition parties already having begun their deliberations on the strategy for Lok Sabha polls and key opposition party NCP facing defections in Maharashtra, as several of its MLAs on Sunday joined the ruling Shiv Sena (Eknath Shinde)-BJP alliance, the coming days are going to witness a lot of political churn.

--IANS

ans/vd
crypto exchange Kraken must provide a wide variety of information about its users to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), according to a ruling in theU.S. District Court of Northern California yesterday.

According to a Friday court filing, the company will need to produce full documentation for any Kraken user that bought, sold, or traded at least $20,000 worth of cryptocurrency between 2016 and 2020. Full documentation includes name, taxpayer identification number, physical address, phone number, email addresses, and transactional ledger.

Even so, magistrate Judge Joseph Spiro denied a number of separate petitions by the IRS, which included requests for information on money laundering activities, clients net worth, and their source of wealth, among others.

Karen Cincotta, the IRS agent leading the case, has stated the platform accounts for over 4 million users, and has processed $140 billion since its opening in 2011. According to Cincotta, however, only 288,330 clients have filed official tax returns, a number dwarfed by the number of trading activity that occurs on Kraken.

Why the IRS Has an Interest in the FTX Bankruptcy Case

Payward Ventures Inc, which operates Kraken, one of the worlds third largest exchanges according to Coingecko, has been battling the governmental agency for some time. Last April, a judge pushed back against demands from the IRS to review Kraken's records, although a higher court gave the IRS a green light to proceed with its inquiry.

The company has repeatedly denied the IRSs previous requests for information as well as other summons put forth by the agency. It did, however, publish a crypto tax guide in April.

Yesterdays resolution comes amid a widespread regulatory crackdown on a number of cryptocurrency platforms. The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has taken Coinbaseamply named in Krakens investigationto the court for alleged unregistered securities offering, as well as Binances U.S. branch.

Kraken has been in constant swings with regulators over the past months. The SEC delivered a $30 million fine ordering it to stop its staking service earlier this year, and the company has been trying to gain access to the Federal Reserve payment system to no avail.
Mumbai, July 2 : On a cool wintry Saturday dawn nearly four years ago, the fledling Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) of Shiv Sena-Congress-Nationalist Congress Party was patting itself and preparing to anoint Uddhav Thackeray as Maharashtra Chief Minister. Suddenly, they spluttered on their morning cup of tea when breakfast TV flashed news of a close-door ceremony in which BJP's Devendra Fadnavis and NCP's Ajit Pawar took oath as CM and Deputy CM.

Nearly four years later, Ajit Pawar again sent the MVA into a post-luncheon tizzy, this time by splitting the NCP to join the Shiv Sena-Bharatiya Janata Party regime of Chief Minister Eknath Shinde and Deputy CM Fadnavis, as the second Deputy CM  a first for the state, though a fifth time for himself.

For the beleaguered MVA, this is the third near-fatal 'surgical strike' inflicted on the alliance by in-house leaders going switching camps to join the rival BJP.

After the November 2019 aborted experiment, Shiv Sena's Eknath Shinde quietly defected to join hands with BJP as the new CM on June 30, 2022.

For the former autorickshaw-driver turned CM, and the state BJP, this is an irony of sorts. They had vehemently attacked the MVA regime as a stationary 'autorickshaw' with three drivers facing in opposite directions.

With Ajit Pawar's NCP group joining the Sena-BJP, it has been catapulted to a three-wheeler, though Shinde quickly interjected today to say that they are now "a triple-engine government" which will move faster than a 'Bullet Train', tugging at PM Narendra Modi's heart.

NCP President Sharad Pawar, when questioned about it, said: "This is not a googly, it's a robbery!", referring to Shinde's comments that his googly resulted in clean-bowling of the NCP.

Stunned by Ajit Pawar's second deception-cum-defection, livid Congress and Shiv Sena-UBT leaders have hit out at Shinde, Fadnavis, and Ajit Pawar for the 'fraud' perpetrated on the people of Maharashtra.

State Congress President Nana Patole said democracy was 'disrobed' in the state with "the perverted BJP vandals now sabotaging the NCP in its lust for power".

He targeted Shinde, reminding how he pretended that Hindutva was in peril after Thackeray joined the MVA, and had dumped the Shiv Sena in June 2022.

"Now, what about Shinde's Hindutva, it is purified? Just recently, Modi accused NCP of corruption of Rs 70,000-crore, and now he has joined hands with the same NCP group," slammed Patole.

Attacking in full mode, MP Sanjay Raut said that almost all who were sworn-in today as ministers had serious enforcement investigations pending against them.

"All those whom the BJP had threatened to throw in jail have now been inducted as Ministers," said Raut, a fact later corroborated even by Sharad Pawar himself.

Raut added that some people have taken up the task of "cleaning up" Maharashtra politics, they are free to have their way, but Sharad Pawar is standing solid and "the people will not tolerate this game for long".

State Congress General Secretary Sachin Sawant said that Modi in his recent trip to the US had uttered the word 'democracy' 14 times in his speech, but now the 'mask' has been yanked off his democratic slogans.

"Modi himself had levelled corruption allegations against NCP and now the BJP is moving shoulder-to-shoulder with its breakaway group. We would like to see how much they enjoy it The BJP was desperate and had realised that its going to lose badly in Maharashtra in the next elections, so they targeted the NCP," said Sawant.

NCP state President Jayant Patil said that the MLAs were made to fraudulently sign on some papers even without informing what it was all about. Mahesh Tapase, NCP's chief spokesperson assured that barring those who had left the party today, the entire NCP apparatus from the block to district to the state level stands like a rock behind Sharad Pawar.

Other senior Congress leaders like Balasaheb Thorat, Atul Londhe, Sena-UBT's Kishore Tiwari and NCP's Dr. Jitendra Awhad  named the new Leader of Opposition and Chief Whip  have also decried the manner in which the BJP split the NCP.

Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) President Raj Thackeray also expressed disgust at the manner in which state politics, which led and enlightened the nation, has now gone such a low level and thrown to muck.

(Quaid Najmi can be contacted at: q.najmi@ians.in)
Khammam : , July 2 (IANS) Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Sunday said that result of Karnataka Assembly elections will be repeated in Telangana.

Addressing a public meeting, he claimed that after the Karnataka poll outcome, BJP has been eliminated in Telangana and there will be direct contest between the Congress party and the Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS).

Dubbing BRS as 'BJP Rishtedar Samithi' and 'B team of BJP', Rahul Gandhi said the Congress defeated the corrupt and anti-poor government of BJP in Karnataka as all poor stand with the Congress.

"On one side there was BJP and their billionaires on the other, there were farmers, labourers, tribals, Dalits, small traders, minorities and weaker sections. The same is going to be repeated in Telangana. On one side there will be the Chief Minister, his family and his 10-15 billionaire friends and on the other side there will be all the poor, Dalits, farmers, tribals, small traders, minorities and weaker sections. What happened in Karnataka will be repeated in Telangana," he said.

Titled 'Telangana Jana Garjana', this was the first major public meeting of the Congress party after the party's victory in Karnataka.

With Sunday's massive show, the Congress party has kicked off its campaign for Telangana Assembly elections due to be held later this year.

Rahul Gandhi said that earlier it was being said that the fight in Telangana is between BRS, Congress and BJP but BJP is finished in Telangana without the party even realising it.

"The fight will be between Congress and BJP B team. The way we defeated BJP in Karnataka, same way we will defeat BJP B team in Telangana," he said.

He said that Congress refused to attend the opposition meeting if they had invited BRS. "We made it clear that we will not attend a meeting with the BJP B team. Will not sit with them and we will defeat them. We can never compromise with the BJP B team," Rahul Gandhi said.

He also launched a scathing attack on Chief Minister K. Chandrasekhar Rao (KCR) over corruption and his support for the BJP government on key bills in the Parliament.

"KCR does whatever Narendra Modi wants. His remote control is in the hands of Narendra Modi," he said.

Referring to Delhi excise policy case in which the name of KCR's daughter had also figured, Rahul Gandhi said that because of corruption, KCR's is under pressure from Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Stating that Congress workers are the backbone of the party, he said they can easily defeat BRS. "You demonstrated your power in Karnataka and now show your might in Telangana."

"KCR thinks he is the raja of Telangana and Telangana is his jagir. KCR is snatching the lands which Indira Gandhi and Congress party had given to the poor, Dalits and tribals," Rahul Gandhi said.

He said that KCR has left no stone unturned as far as corruption is concerned. He alleged that Rs.1 lakh crore were siphoned off in the Kaleshwaram project and there was massive corruption in Mission Kakatiya.

"KCR is using the Dharani portal to snatch your lands. He has snatched the rights of every section," he said.

Stating that Telangana was a dream of poor, farmers, labourers and weaker sections, he said BRS shattered this dream during its rule during in last nine years.
New Delhi, July 2 : It was 2020 when she started feeling anxious, and then started the act of cutting herself. It was impossible for her to stay still, there were uncontrollable spells of crying. From loss of appetite and sleep to inability to focus on anything -- she had all the classic symptoms of anxiety and depression which any psychiatrist could decipher in the first meeting itself.

Just, in this case, this was happening to a psychiatrist.

When Aashima Chander (name changed) joined the Psychiatry department of Chandigarh's prestigious Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER) three years back as a Junior Resident, she initially assumed it was the high-pressure job -- long working hours, strenuous academic demands and the massive number of consultations that were taking a toll on her.

"Those who make it to PGI's post-graduate programme are overachievers and even a small dip in performance can lead to a feeling of worthlessness. And of course, there were times when I thought the teachers would think less of me -- that I am unable to cope with the pressure. I may have joined the Department of Psychiatry but I was still a novice and did not realize that I was suffering from a mental illness for a long time. It was during a long spell of crying in the washroom, that a friend pulled me and forced me to see one of our Professors," recalls the 28-year-old, originally from Prayagraj.

Stressing that it was a time when she was not herself, Chander remembers asking the Professor if she would ever be a good psychiatrist -- considering she was battling the disease herself. Her doctor paused and assured her she would be a better one as she would always have a deeper idea of what her patients were going through.

Her husband, who is also a doctor pushed her to consult one. And Chandra's mother played a special role. "She stayed with me when I was at my lowest. One day when I returned from the office, there were heart marks drawn with nail paint on every sharp object in her room -- knives, and paper cutters."

Ask her if she ever feels a certain disbelief that a mental health professional is suffering from this condition, and she smiles, "Not at all. Because I am a psychiatrist and know that this is an illness that can strike anyone. "

But Chandra recently who recently had a relapse, took a long time before she approached her consultant. "Let's say, I was in denial -- like any other patient."

Along with medications, what helped her were certain observations made by her Professor during multiple sessions. "The fact that I had a tendency to always seek and thrive on appreciation, something that made me push my boundaries to what I wasn't comfortable with and force me to overwork. he told me that this could also lead to professional abuse. Frankly, I am still changing that about myself."

As the conversation veers to how mental illness is perceived in India even in this time and age, she feels the situation is sad across the world: "A patient is assumed to be harmful and out of control. Media and film descriptions have also added to that, there were really weird depictions even 10 years ago, although we have become somewhat more sensitive about it now. In a corporate setup, the top management tends to feel that someone with mental illness may not be able to handle the stress and then eventually turn out to be a liability. And of course, then there are psychiatric illnesses deniers who insist it is a hoax."

The doctor, who is no longer with PGI now, applauds other professionals in her department for their sensitivity and for giving her the 'space'. "Not that I announced my illness, but they know. And have never been intrusive. Once during my low phase, I was on emergency duty with a very strict Senior Resident. There was an immense work backlog, and I just started crying inconsolably. It was a panic attack. He sat there, kept looking at me, and did not say anything. After a while, handed me a glass of water. The act of not offering a quick fix was extremely kind."
Khammam : , July 2 (IANS) In a major promise ahead of Assembly elections in Telangana, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi announced on Sunday that if the party is voted to power, widows and senior citizens will get a monthly pension of Rs.4,000 each.

Rahul Gandhi unveiled the promise at the mammoth public meeting 'Telangana Jana Garjana' organised here Sunday evening.

He recalled that the party had already announced farmers' declaration at Warangal and youth declaration at Hyderabad.

"Today we are announcing another historic step. Senior citizens and widows will get Rs.4,000 each as pension every month," he said.

The BRS government currently provides Rs.2,016 per month as the pension for senior citizens and widows under Aasara Pension Scheme.

He also promised that if voted to power, the Congress will return Podu lands to tribals. He said all those lands taken away by KCR government from farmers and Dalits will also be returned to them.

Welcoming former Khammam MP Ponguleti Srinivasa Reddy into the Congress party, Rahul Gandhi said he accepted the ideology of the party. Srinivasa Reddy was recently suspended from Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) for anti-party activities.

The Congress leader noted that Khammam is a stronghold of the Congress party. He told people that they always supported Congress and the ideology of the Congress party is in their heart and blood.

Rahul Gandhi also declared that the doors of the Congress party are open for all those who quit Congress party in the past. "For all those who agree with our ideology, our doors are open. We have nothing to do with those who support the ideology of BJP and BRS," he said.

He reiterated that the Congress party's ideology is to unite the country while on the other side there is the ideology of hate and violence. He said during his Bharat Jodo Yatra, the entire country supported the Congress ideology and vowed that they will not allow hate and violence to spread.

As the public meeting also marked the culmination of 1,360 km long padyatra of Congress Legislature Party (CLP) leader Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka, Rahul Gandhi felicitated him.

He thanked Bhatti for undertaking the yatra and raising the issues of people and weaker sections.

Terming Congress workers as the lions of the party, he said they did not leave the party even in testing times and despite the repression by the BRS.
Los Angeles, July 2 : 'Blade Runner 2049' actor Ryan Gosling has pulled out of promoting his upcoming film 'Barbie' in South Korea due to 'inevitable circumstances'.

Sharing the big screen with 'The Suicide Squad' actress Margot Robbie, who will play Barbie, Gosling will essay the role of Ken, as per Female First.

Warner Bros. Korea said in a statement: "Ryan Gosling is hoping to meet with you through another opportunity. However, Margot and America Ferrera (Gloria) joined director Greta Gerwig for the press and fan gathering".

A 'Barbie' pop-up opened yesterday in Hannam-dong, central Seoul, and will remain open until July 31.

According to Gosling, he laughed when he was told that he was "too old" to play Ken. He told GQ: "I would say, you know, if people don't 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? And everyone was fine with that, for him to have a job that is nothing. 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***** 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. I care about this dude now. I'm like his representative. 'Ken couldn't show up to receive this award, so I'm here to accept it for him," he added.

--IANS

anv/aa/sha
London, July 2 : When it mattered the most for England, captain Ben Stokes dished out yet another heroic and stunning 155 in the pursuit of chasing 371. But it was not enough for the hosts to avoid a 43-run loss to Australia on a thrilling fifth and final day of the second Ashes Test at Lord's on Sunday.

Resuming the final day on 114/4, Stokes and Ben Duckett (83) added a further 63 runs before the former fell to Josh Hazlewood just after the first hour of the morning session was over.

Jonny Bairstow was run-out in controversial circumstances for 10, as wicketkeeper Alex Carey threw the ball at the stumps after the batter wandered out of the crease while avoiding a bouncer, leaving England at 193/6, with the crowd booing Australia and some confrontational scenes happening in Long Room at lunch break.

In between, Stokes went for an ultra-attacking approach with the bat, reaching his century with three scintillating sixes and paving the path for another great escape for England by hitting nine fours and as many maximums.

As Stokes marched forward in his onslaught, Australia, minus Nathan Lyonas bowling, were having flashbacks of Headingley 2019 coming true at Lordas 2023. But once Stokes fell to Hazlewood and his 108-run stand with Stuart Broad came to an end, Australia were able to bowl out England for 327 in 81.3 to go 2-0 up in the five-game series.

For England, what came back to hit them hard was allowing Australia to get too many runs in the first innings after electing to bowl first and then throwing away too many wickets in their first essay while looking to attack the short ball, giving the visitors a 91-run lead.

They now must win the third Test at Headingley, starting from Thursday, otherwise, they wonat be able to regain the Ashes.

Earlier on Sunday morning, Stokes and Ben Duckett resumed from where they had left off, nurdling the ball around and getting on top of the bounce.

The Australians persisted with the short-ball ploy without much success early in the session. Stokes survived an lbw review off Mitchell Starcas sharp yorker and his century stand with Duckett was up soon.

Just as England seemed to be on course to push Australia into panic mode, Hazlewood struck by finding Duckettas top edge as the batter tried to pull off a short ball. Bairstow joined Stokes in the middle as the visitors continue to barrage them with short balls.

However, the wicket came in highly-unexpected fashion when Bairstow wandered outside the crease after leaving a delivery, with an alert Carey throwing down the stumps to catch the England batter well short.

Post the bizarre dismissal, Stokes began to tee off, taking on the short ball with relentless pulls through the leg side. In the 54th over, he smashed Cameron Green for three fours, all off pull shots, and treated him to another four followed by a hat-trick of sixes in his next over to reach his hundred in quite dramatic fashion, with Stokes celebrating in subdued fashion.

Broad held his end firm as Stokes continued to flay the Aussie attack. What appeared to be well outside Englandas reach suddenly seemed possible with the skipperas unrelenting onslaught.

Two sixes came in the 60th over bowled by Hazlewood and two more followed in the 65th over from Mitchell Starc with the left-arm seamer resorting to T20 tactics to outfox Stokes. The duo soon brought up the century stand at more than run-a-ball, with Broad contributing only 11 runs to it at that point in time.

Stokes, targeting bowlers from only one end to evade the deep fielders, raced past 150, but Headingley 2019 was not to be repeated at Lordas as Hazlewood eventually bounced Stokes out -a" the batter edging one to the keeper off a short delivery and departing for 155.

The rest of the line-up hung around for a while, but Starc sent Josh Tongue back with a searing yorker and uprooted his leg-stump to hand Australia a memorable win and a 2-0 lead in the series after two Tests.

Brief scores:

Australia 416 & beat England 325 & 327 in 81.3 overs (Ben Stokes 155, Ben Duckett 83; Pat Cummins 3-69, Mitchell Starc 3-79) by 43 runs
New Delhi, July 2 : Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Sunday said that Chhattisgarh should have been one of the richest state but due to a lack of good governance the state has turned into a poor state.

"Chhattisgarh is a state blessed with abundant beauty and resources, including beautiful rivers, forests, and traditional forms of medicine. It is also rich in various types of minerals. With all these resources, it should have been the wealthiest state in India. Unfortunately, it is also the state with the highest poverty rate," Kejriwal said while addressing a rally at the Jansabha in Bilaspur, Chhattisgarh.

Kejriwal said that if Chhattisgarh gives his party a chance just like in Delhi and Punjab, people in Chhattisgarh too will forget about the BJP and Congress.

He also criticised PM Narendra Modi, calling him an 'uneducated' Prime Minister.

Kejriwal pointed out that during an interview, PM Modi himself confessed that he didn't pursue further studies after leaving his village school.

"PM Modi implemented demonetisation and destroyed the entire economy. An educated Prime Minister would have never taken a step," Kejriwal said.

Kejriwal emphasised that he was providing essential services to the people of Delhi free of cost. He accused the Congress-led Chhattisgarh government of not providing basic facilities and free electricity for 20 years.

"PM Modi says Kejriwal distributes 'Free Ki Revdi,' but PM has forgotten that his own best friend receives more 'Free Ki Revdi' than anyone else. PM Modi is favoring his friends for corporate interests," he said.

Kejriwal stated that despite the abundant resources and good intentions of the people of the state, bad politicians have cursed its progress. To enable the state to progress, the ruling political party in Chhattisgarh needs to be changed.

"In 2000, the state of Chhattisgarh was created after being separated from Madhya Pradesh. At that time, the residents of the state had high hopes and believed that their state will also see development.

"Chhattisgarh is a state blessed with abundant beauty and resources, including beautiful rivers, forests, and traditional forms of medicine. The state is also rich in various types of minerals, and coal and steel are produced here. The Gods have blessed the state and given it everything, except probably just one thing  honest politicians. This is one thing that, unfortunately, this state does not have," Kejriwal said.

Kejriwal mentioned that the residents of Chhattisgarh, whom he interacted with, were completely surprised when they found out that the people of Delhi receive a zero electricity bill.

He further added that the governments in Chhattisgarh could have done it as well, but they were busy looting the people to fill their own coffers.

Kejriwal stated that the people had been forced to go through adversity by the PM just so that he could provide free loans to his "businessmen friends."

Kejriwal mentioned that the Prime Minister of the country was only assisting his "businessmen friends" without getting anything in return.

"In the last 10 years, the BJP-led Centre has made a mess of our country. They made ghastly decisions such as implementing demonetisation. Their rationale behind it was to end corruption. I want to ask the people gathered here  has corruption ended after demonetisation? They even claimed that it would put an end to terrorism, but no such thing has happened. If we had an educated leader running the country, he would certainly not make such poor policy decisions," Kejriwal said.

Kejriwal urged the citizens of Chhattisgarh to give AAP an opportunity in the state.

"The way the people of Delhi did not vote for BJP and Congress, the way the citizens of Punjab did not vote for BJP, Congress, and the Akali Dal, similarly, I urge the people of Chhattisgarh to give AAP a chance," he said.
Thiruvananthapuram, July 2 : Congress leaders in Kerala on Sunday strongly came out against the party's Ernakulam MP, Hibi Eden's private member's bill suggesting Kochi be the state capital instead of Thiruvananthapuram.

Leader of the Opposition in Kerala Assembly, V.D. Satheeshan said that Congress has never discussed such a subject.

He also said that the MP had moved the bill without consulting the party and added that the party had asked him withdraw the bill.

After Eden moved the private member's bill in parliament, the Union Home Ministry sought the opinion of the Kerala government.

However the state government rejected the demand, with Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan noting in the file that the demand was impractical and hence, was being rejected.

Satheeshan, while speaking to media persons at Kochi, said: "Hibi is like my younger brother and when I noticed the news, I had immediately contacted him and told him about the party's dissatisfaction on this. This is not the decision of the party. He has moved a private member's bill and party has asked him to withdraw the bill with immediate effect."

He said that he was also from Kochi but never had the urge to make it the capital city and added that Thiruvananthapuram was a good capital city for Kerala.

Thiruvananthapuram MP and senior Congress leader Dr. Shashi Tharoor also told media persons that there was no need for such a demand.

Vadakara MP K. Muraleedharan said that the demand of Eden has to be rejected outright, and reiterated that Thiruvananthapuram was a good place to be the capital of the state.

He asked whether he could demand Vadakara as the capital of Kerala, adding that these were all immature suggestions.

Several other senior state Congress leaders came out strongly against the demand of Eden.

Meanwhile, Kerala Industries Minister P. Rajeev told media persons that the demand of Eden is an indication that he was the candidate for Ernakulam Lok Sabha seat again.
New Delhi, July 2 : The Southwest monsoon, that made its onset over the Kerala coast on June 8, has now covered the entire country, including Rajasthan, Haryana, and Punjab, the India Meteorological Department said on Sunday.

The IMD reported that the monsoon's progression and coverage was ahead of schedule -six days earlier than the normal date of July 8.

However, the country still experiences a rainfall deficiency of 13 per cent at 136.5 mm since June 1.

Some states have received excess rainfall, while others have experienced deficient rainfall.

The month of June saw normal rainfall in 12 states, while 14 states recorded deficient rainfall, with two states facing a significant deficiency.

The presence of cyclonic circulations in the central parts of the south Bay of Bengal and the north Andaman Sea has led the IMD to issue warnings for south, west, east, and northeastern India. Heavy to heavy rainfall is expected in various regions, including south interior Karnataka, coastal Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, Karaikal, Kerala, Mahe, coastal Andhra Pradesh, Yanam, Rayalaseema, Telangana, north interior Karnataka, and Lakshadweep on different days.

Additionally, light to moderate rainfall is predicted in Konkan, Goa, Ghat areas of central Maharashtra, and Gujarat.

"Bihar will experience fairly widespread to widespread light or moderate rains until Wednesday, while Assam, Meghalaya, Sub-Himalayan West Bengal, and Sikkim may face extremely heavy falls until Monday. Isolated heavy rainfall is likely in Gangetic West Bengal, Jharkhand, and Odisha on specific days. The rest of the country is not expected to undergo any significant weather changes," it said.
Hyderabad, July 2 : Telangana Chief Minister K. Chandrasekhar Rao has ordered the officials concerned to initiate measures on a war footing to stockpile water in the reservoirs by lifting from the projects on Krishna and Godavari rivers to prevent drought conditions in the state.

With the state witnessing dry spell due to deficit rainfall, CM KCR on Sunday held a high level meeting with officials on rainfall, availability of water in the rivers like Pranahita, water storage in reservoirs and electricity demand. He wanted the officials to take action to prevent shortage of drinking water and irrigation needs in the state.

Senior officials of the respective departments explained the project wise details of water availability to CM KCR.

The Chief Minister advised the officials to give priority to the supply of drinking water and to continuously monitor water reserves in the reservoirs under the Godavari and Krishna. The Irrigation Department and Energy Departments have been asked to work in coordination and preserve every drop of water for future needs.

CM KCR said that water reaching through Pranahita should be lifted through Medigadda, Annaram and Sundilla projects and fill the Mid Manair. From there, half of the water will be lifted to lower Manair Dam and the remaining half to the SRSP through the revived Flood Canal. This will ensure that the last ayacut of Kaleshwaram till Suryapet and the SRSP ayacut get irrigation water.

CM KCR ordered the agriculture department officials to prepare a contingency plan to supply seeds and fertilizers to the farmers who already sowed cotton and other crop seeds and were waiting to go for another round of sowing activity due to dry spell.

The officials have been asked to submit a minute to minute report every morning to the CMO. Based on the reports submitted by Irrigation, Agriculture, Energy and Panchayat Raj Departments regarding the distribution of drinking water and irrigation water, the CM's office will give orders and alerts to the ministers and public representatives of the respective areas from time to time. The CM said that the CMO will resolve every issue by coordinating all wings.

"Now, the value of Kaleshwaram will be known in difficult times to everyone. It is the testing time for the Irrigation department. Irrigation, Agriculture and Energy wings have the responsibility to ensure adequate supply of drinking and irrigation water by lifting water from Pranahita and Godavari. It is a crucial time for all of us," he said.

"It is not the past Telangana and we should not think like earlier. We built projects to address the water crisis. Abundant water is available for drinking and irrigation needs. We should prove our potentiality when the state encounters difficult situations," he added.
Key Insights

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Occidental Petroleum's US$58.80 share price indicates it is trading at similar levels as its fair value estimate

The US$68.00 analyst price target for OXYis comparable to our estimate of fair value.

In this article we are going to estimate the intrinsic value of Occidental Petroleum Corporation (NYSE:OXY) 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. Don't get put off by the jargon, the math behind it is actually quite straightforward.

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See our latest analysis for Occidental Petroleum

Is Occidental Petroleum Fairly Valued?

We're using the 2-stage growth model, which simply means we take in account two stages of company's growth. In the initial period the company may have a higher growth rate and the second stage is usually assumed to have a stable growth rate. To begin with, we have to get estimates of the next ten years of cash flows. Where possible we use analyst estimates, but when these aren't available we extrapolate the previous free cash flow (FCF) from the last estimate or reported value. We assume companies with shrinking free cash flow will slow their rate of shrinkage, and that companies with growing free cash flow will see their growth rate slow, over this period. We do this to reflect that growth tends to slow more in the early years than it does in later years.

Generally we assume that a dollar today is more valuable than a dollar in the future, and so the sum of these future cash flows is then discounted to today's value:

10-year free cash flow (FCF) forecast

2024 2025 2026 2027 2028 2029 2030 2031 2032 2033 Levered FCF ($, Millions) US$6.22b US$5.09b US$5.37b US$5.33b US$5.33b US$5.37b US$5.43b US$5.51b US$5.60b US$5.70b Growth Rate Estimate Source Analyst x8 Analyst x5 Analyst x3 Analyst x3 Est @ 0.13% Est @ 0.72% Est @ 1.14% Est @ 1.43% Est @ 1.63% Est @ 1.78% Present Value ($, Millions) Discounted @ 10% US$5.6k US$4.2k US$4.0k US$3.6k US$3.3k US$3.0k US$2.7k US$2.5k US$2.3k US$2.1k

("Est" = FCF growth rate estimated by Simply Wall St)

Present Value of 10-year Cash Flow (PVCF) = US$33b

After calculating the present value of future cash flows in the initial 10-year period, we need to calculate the Terminal Value, which accounts for all future cash flows beyond the first stage. The Gordon Growth formula is used to calculate Terminal Value at a future annual growth rate equal to the 5-year average of the 10-year government bond yield of 2.1%. We discount the terminal cash flows to today's value at a cost of equity of 10%.

Terminal Value (TV)= FCF 2033  (1 + g)  (r  g) = US$5.7b (1 + 2.1%)  (10% 2.1%) = US$71b

Present Value of Terminal Value (PVTV)= TV / (1 + r)10= US$71b ( 1 + 10%)10= US$27b

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$60b. In the final step we divide the equity value by the number of shares outstanding. Relative to the current share price of US$58.8, the company appears about fair value at a 13% discount to where the stock price trades currently. Valuations are imprecise instruments though, rather like a telescope - move a few degrees and end up in a different galaxy. Do keep this in mind.

dcf

The Assumptions

Now the most important inputs to a discounted cash flow are the discount rate, and of course, the actual cash flows. If you don't agree with these result, have a go at the calculation yourself and play with the assumptions. The DCF also does not consider the possible cyclicality of an industry, or a company's future capital requirements, so it does not give a full picture of a company's potential performance. Given that we are looking at Occidental Petroleum 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 10%, which is based on a levered beta of 1.375. 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 Occidental Petroleum

Strength

Earnings growth over the past year exceeded its 5-year average.

Debt is well covered by earnings and cashflows.

Dividends are covered by earnings and cash flows.

Weakness

Earnings growth over the past year underperformed the Oil and Gas industry.

Dividend is low compared to the top 25% of dividend payers in the Oil and Gas market.

Opportunity

Current share price is below our estimate of fair value.

Threat

Annual earnings are forecast to decline for the next 3 years.

Moving On:

Valuation is only one side of the coin in terms of building your investment thesis, and it shouldn't be the only metric you look at when researching a company. It's not possible to obtain a foolproof valuation with a DCF model. Preferably you'd apply different cases and assumptions and see how they would impact the company's valuation. For example, changes in the company's cost of equity or the risk free rate can significantly impact the valuation. For Occidental Petroleum, we've compiled three further items you should assess:

Risks: For example, we've discovered 2 warning signs for Occidental Petroleum (1 shouldn't be ignored!) that you should be aware of before investing here. Future Earnings: How does OXY'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 High Quality Alternatives: Do you like a good all-rounder? Explore our interactive list of high quality stocks to get an idea of what else is out there you may be missing!

PS. 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.

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New Delhi, 2 July : Union Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways is building a 'National Maritime Heritage Complex' (NMHC) at the Indus Valley civilization region of Lothal in Gujarat.

The marinetime complex will have a special gallery depicting heritage and history of Navy and Coast Guard. The Indian Coast Guard and Indian Navy will contribute in this project.

The Ministry of Defence (MoD) said that Indian Navy and coast guard will work for the planning, development, construction, and commissioning of a gallery on the theme "Evolution of Indian Navy and Indian Coast Guard" at the National Maritime Heritage Complex.

For this initiative a memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between Indian Coast Guard and Indian Navy with Indian Port Rail and Ropeway Corporation Ltd on Sunday July 2. The foundation stone for the NMHC project was laid by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in March 2019.

MoD apprised that it will have several innovative and unique features such as Lothal mini recreation to recreate Harappan architecture and lifestyle, four theme parks  Memorial theme park, Maritime and Navy theme park, Climate theme park, and Adventure and Amusement theme park, fourteen galleries highlighting India's maritime heritage starting from the Harappan times till now, Coastal states pavilion displaying the diverse maritime heritage of states and UTs; among others, officials at MoD added.

According to the Ministry of Defence, the NMHC project comprising of a maritime museum, lighthouse museum, maritime theme parks, amusement park centres, etc.

MoD said NMHC will showcase the maritime heritage of the country from ancient to modern times by adopting an edutainment approach using the latest technology to spread awareness about India's maritime heritage.

--IANS

Gcb/dan
Kolkata, July 2 : Prices of chilli and ginger, the two essential cooking ingredients, have skyrocketed in different retail markets in Kolkata on the first Sunday of July.

Crossing the triple-century mark, chilly is being sold at Rs 350 a kg in most of the retail markets, while ginger, another cooking staple, is being sold at the same rate per kg.

In some shops located at retail markets located at posh areas in the city the commodity price has touched even Rs 400 a kg.

"Till now we had been wondering how to tackle the skyrocketing price of tomatoes. But now the rising prices of chilli and ginger really made us helpless. We can manage some days without tomatoes. But how is cooking possible without chilli and ginger," Sharmishtha Rajak, a senior executive of a private sector bank in Kolkata said expressing anxiety over the rising prices of these essential cooking ingredients.

According to a member of the task force of the West Bengal for control of prices of essential commodities in the state, because of the prolonged dry spell and extreme heat, the production of chillies in the state had been affected in a major way.

"Apart from that a section of the hoarders are also responsible for the increased price. But today there was a meeting of the task force members which was chaired by Chief Secretary H.K. Dwivedi. We will start massive patrolling at the local markets from Monday. We expect the situation to be brought under control within the next fortnight," he said.

As regards to ginger, he said that although this commodity is produced in West Bengal, its quality is not high.

"The state imports a substantial quantity of ginger from Manipur. But because of the ongoing tension at that northeastern state, that supply has been affected from that state to a great extent. This is a major reason for the skyrocketing price of the commodity," he added.
New Delhi, July 2 : The Delhi Police's Economic Offences Wing on Sunday said that they have arrested two people involved in income tax refund fraud.

The accused were identified as Nitin Mehta and Nikunj Dudeja.

Police said that an FIR was lodged against them, based on a complaint filed by Income Tax Department official Mohit Garg.

"It was alleged that during scrutiny process, Income Tax Department observed that some refunds had been issued to some fake assessees in suspicious manner and without receipt of any refund application u/s 154 I.T. Act. The refund amount was 3.36 crore disbursed to the 20 assessees for the financial years 2012-13, 2013-14, and 2014-15, respectively.

"Moreover, TDS reflected in their Form 26AS showed that the TDS was deducted by struck off companies whereas their bank accounts did not reflect any payments received for any assignment," an EOW official said.

Police said that as per Delhi Income tax office, none of the assessees were traceable at the address furnished in the PAN cards, which were also found to be obtained on fake documents.

Seeing the gravity of the matter, police lodged an FIR of cheating and forgery and started the investigation.

"The investigation revealed that out of 20 bank accounts of fake assessees, 19 bank accounts were opened on the recommendation of VBMCS Sales Pvt Ltd and the assessees were shown as employees of the company. The accused Nitin Mehta and Nikunj Dudeja were shown as the directors of VBMCS Sales Pvt. Ltd," the official said.

During investigation, the complainant was examined and relevant documents were seized. Relevant bank statements were analysed which revealed that a huge amount was collected in fake accounts and later withdrawn and thus, fraud on public money committed.

"Both the accused were finally arrested. They have been sent to 14 days judicial custody," said the official.
Imphal, July 3 : The Army and Assam Rifles troopers rescued five youth belonging to the Meitei community after they were abducted by Kuki militants two days ago, official sources said.

An official in Imphal said on Sunday that the Army and the Assam Rifles soldiers rescued the five youth from Gwaltabi village under the Yaingangpokpi police station in Imphal East district.

The Kuki militants reportedly abducted the youth on Saturday evening when they were travelling in an autorickshaw.

However, the Kuki militants claimed that as part of the greater interest of peace and communal harmony they released five youth.
Jerusalem, July 3 : Israel has approved the purchase of 25 new F-35 stealth fighter jets from the US, the Defence Ministry said in a statement.

The Ministry added on Sunday that the deal is valued at about $3 billion, which will be financed through the US defence aid package received by Israel.

As part of the original agreement between the US and Israel, the aircraft manufacturer Lockheed Martin and the engine manufacturer Pratt & Whitney have agreed to involve Israel's defence industries in the production of aircraft components.

The acquisition will bring the number of F-35s operated by the Israeli Air Force to 75, Xinhua news agency reported.

The procurement was approved by Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant following the recommendation of military Chief Herzi Halevi, Director General of the Defence Ministry Eyal Zamir, and Commander of the Israeli Air Force Tomer Bar.

Israel was the first country outside the US to acquire the F-35 aircraft. The Israeli Air Force operates a customised version of the plane called "Adir," which is translated into "Mighty" in Hebrew.

The first nine F-35s in Israel became operational in December 2017, and in May 2018, the first plane was deployed for combat.
Damascus/Jerusalem, July 3 : Israel launched a missile strike on military sites in Syria's central province of Homs, causing material damage, the Syrian Army said in a statement.

According to the statement on Sunday, the missiles triggered the Syrian air defences, which intercepted some of the missiles.

The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights war monitor said the attack targeted weapon depots of the Iranian-backed militias, Xinhua news agency reported.

After the attack, Syria launched an anti-aircraft missile into Israeli territory, which exploded in midair and caused no injuries, the Israeli military said in a statement on Sunday.

In response to the Syrian missile attack, Israeli fighter jets then struck the Syrian air defence battery from which the anti-aircraft missile was launched into Israeli territory and "other targets in the area," the Israeli statement added.

The Israeli military did not comment on the airstrikes in Homs.

The Syrian Army occasionally launches missiles in response to frequent Israeli airstrikes within the country.
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Mr Gove has fuelled divisions with the building industry executives with his interventionist approach - Jeff Overs/BBC/PA

Michael Goves department is sitting on enough land to build more than 250,000 homes, analysis suggests, after the Housing Secretary criticised developers for hoarding hundreds of thousands of plots.

Homes England, an agency tasked with supporting the development of new affordable homes, controls a portfolio with enough space for 279,000 houses, according to analysis carried out privately by the housing industry and shared with the Telegraph. The agency disputes the figures and says the number of houses that could be built is significantly lower.

It comes after the FTSE 100 housebuilder Barratt Developments was last week exposed as the biggest land banker in the private sector with a total of 189,000 plots, according to reports. In second place was Bellway, with just under 100,000 sites. The top 10 house builders had 700,000 plots lying idle, research found.

The revelations sparked a strong rebuke from Mr Gove who told the i newspaper that it was completely unacceptable for developers to sit on land and drive up prices.

Mr Goves remarks were branded  ridiculous nonsense by senior figures within the housebuilding sector. One insider said: Mr Gove did one of his characteristic politics-over-substance interventions.

In the terms of reference of a review into Homes Englands remit published last Monday, the agency said it had a portfolio of 9,000 hectares of land.

According to figures from the Office for National Statistics, an average of 31 houses are being built per hectare at present  although this figure is significantly lower than an average of more than 40 properties in previous years.

At 31 houses per hectare, this would mean Homes England has 279,000 housing plots lying idle.

New home completions have hit a 15-year low, despite a Conservative pledge for 300,000 properties to be built every year before the last general election. The Government was hit by criticism last December for watering down the target.

Meanwhile, planning delays and red tape means the housebuilding sector now estimates just 120,000 new homes will be built this year.

Presented with the private sector land banking figures, Mr Gove said: It is completely unacceptable for developers to sit on land and drive up prices. I expect them to play their part in delivering affordable housing for communities right across the country.

I am giving councils the power to clamp down on developers who are building too slowly through the Levelling Up and Regeneration Bill. This will create a modern and efficient planning system so councils can identify developers failing to build at an acceptable rate.

Mr Gove has angered many property industry executives by taking a more interventionist approach towards planning restrictions. Bosses are also fuming after he forced them to pay to replace dangerous cladding following the Grenfell Tower tragedy.

Last month he vowed to review a decision by the Planning Inspectorate which, having been appointed by the Housing Secretary himself, had rejected an application to open a Papa Johns takeaway pizza outlet on the grounds that it would exacerbate obesity in the local area.

Mr Gove has been unapologetic for calling in flagship building projects for a review, exercising a power that was used more sparingly by his predecessors.

Speaking to the Telegraph in April, he said: When it comes to marquee developments: quality matters. We have to build for the long term.

We have a brilliant architectural profession in this country. We should be when were thinking about buildings, thinking about the aesthetic quality of them.

Because it matters to all of us, not just those who are in them and who use them, but those who are part of that broader built environment.

So one of the key things Ive been clear about is we must demand high aesthetic standards.

Home England said that large tracts of its land are not immediately suitable for housing, because of complex challenges such as heavy contamination or a lack of major new infrastructure.

It added that 3,000 hectares of its portfolio is already being built on, while 1,600 hectares are undevelopable land such as verges and waterways.

Over 55,000 homes are expected to be built on the remaining space, it said  30,000 of them in the next five years.

A spokesman for Homes England said: We dont land bank and we absolutely refute this claim, and the figures being stated. We enable the right homes to be built in the right places  many of which are affordable.

We only intervene when the market needs us to. We tackle the most complex and unviable situations to enable the release of land for housing that local communities need and which would otherwise remain locked away.

As soon as the land is ready and outline planning is received, we engage housebuilders to build out as quickly as possible. Land banking suggests that we do nothing, but this couldnt be further from the truth. Were not measured on the amount of land we own, but on the homes delivered.

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West Texas National Bank will open their first Lubbock location at 6502 Slide Road in August 2023.

A West Texas community bank recently announced their upcoming entry into the Lubbock market, which will be led by a life-long local and Texas Tech graduate.

On June 30, the Midland-based West Texas National Bank announced they will open a location in Lubbock in August. The bank will be at 6502 Slide Road, and offer full-banking services, according to a news release from the company.

As a bank headquartered in West Texas, were deeply rooted in this region and believe Lubbock closely aligns with the Mission and Values we share at WTNB," said Chris Whigham, bank president and CEO. "Were excited and honored to expand our footprint and serve the Lubbock community."

Jay Kemper, a Texas Tech grad, was appointed as Senior Vice President and Lubbock Market President. He has 29 years of banking experience, with specializations in commercial lending. Kemper also serves on the Scottish Rite West Texas Board, active in the Lubbock Chamber of Commerce, and previously served with the Lubbock United Way.

WTNB is a strong community bank built on integrity and excellence, and I am both excited and grateful to work with them as they expand into Lubbock," Kemper said. "As someone born and raised in Lubbock, its important to me that we have banking options in this area from industry leaders who understand the market and the economic strengths and challenges that come with it. Lubbock is a growing community, and Im honored that we get to grow along with the community."

WTNB has locations in Dallas, Houston, Alpine, Crane, Denver City, Kermit, Midland, Odessa, Pecos, Seminole, and Terlingua.

This article originally appeared on Lubbock Avalanche-Journal: Midland's West Texas National Bank prepares to enter Lubbock market
Sarah Herron / Instagram

By Elizabeth Kwiatkowski, 07/02/2023



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Elizabeth Kwiatkowski is Associate Editor of Reality TV World and has been covering the reality TV genre for more than a decade.

The Bachelor alum Sarah Herron has explained how her prosthetic arm works.Sarah has proven for years that she's capable of doing most things in life with one hand, but she thought using a prosthetic arm might make parenting a baby a little easier in the future.Sarah therefore followed through with getting a COVVI prosthetic hand in April.Sarah took to Instagram recently with a video showing how her prosthetic arm opens and closes.The Bachelor alum captioned her post, "Lots of questions about how my @covvi hand opens and closes! For such a hi-tech gadget, it's actually pretty simple. #bionicwoman #bionichand #covvi #prostheticarm #prosthetichand #limbdifferenceawareness #limbdifference #limbdifferent #disabilityawareness #limitlesspossibilities #everybodyisagoodbody."In the video, Sarah explained, "For such a technical gadget, it's really pretty simple. Inside there are these two electrodes on each side, and those are the electrodes that control the open and close function. When I flex my arm out, it's open, and when I flex my arm [inward], it's closed."Sarah added, "It really only requires a very simple muscle movement."And for holding fragile objects or things that might break, such as a ceramic mug, Sarah continued, "There's a lock so I don't drop it.""The COVVI hand can cycle through 14 different programmable grips so you can find a grip that best suits whatever activity it is that you are doing," Sarah shared.Sarah's prosthetic arm also apparently fits snugly, and so it cannot slip off easily."It is suctioned on really securely," Sarah confirmed."Even though my arm looks red, it doesn't hurt. Mostly the only 'pain' is muscle fatigue because I just don't have a lot of strength in my arm. The red is something I always have. There's a TON of blood in my arm, so when I'm hot/cold/doing activities, blood pumps to my arm."In the comments section, Sarah revealed that her favorite grip is the "Power Grip."She explained, "It's the most versatile. The @covvi describes Power Grip as a stable grip for when holding heavier items, but it is also great for daily and manual tasks such as carrying bags, pushing a shopping trolley, or mowing the lawn."Sarah announced she was expecting her first child with fiance Dylan Brown in late September 2022 after trying to conceive for two years, beginning in 2020. Her baby was due in May 2023.But Sarah revealed in February the couple's newborn son Oliver, who was born at 24 weeks, passed away just hours after his birth on January 28."He passed away in his dad's arms shortly after," Sarah wrote on Instagram at the time."There are no words for the magnitude of loss and pain we're experiencing. It's beautiful and simultaneously tragic. He had my nose and his dad's mouth and long fingers."Sarah continued in her post, "Oliver, our IVF miracle defied so many odds and fought through so many hard milestones to be here, but the higher powers still had other plans for the three of us.""Our time together was short, but we are grateful for the days we had with Oliver in my belly," she added. "He has taught us so much about the integrity of life, love and death. Oliver filled our home and hearts with so much love and most importantly, optimism."Sarah revealed in May 2021 that Dylan had popped the question in front of Mount Sopris in the Colorado mountains and they got engaged after four years of dating."To everyone who thinks life has to go in one particular order, or by a specific time... IT DOESN'T. I'd wait a lifetime all over again -- through the heartbreaks, years of self-work and countless Rose Ceremonies -- to end up with this person," Sarah previously gushed on social media, referencing her history on The Bachelor franchise."We make each other better, we have so much fun and we're going to become parents together, so we decided to do the damn thing! 5.15.21 My forever paradise, favorite adventure bud and BEST friend, @dylan.h.brown."But Sarah shared how she and Dylan had a lot on their plates and so they decided to put wedding plans on hold."[We] will resume planning once baby is here," Sarah told Us Weekly following her engagement. "The idea of our little baby getting to attend our wedding with mom and dad someday feels really beautiful to me, so we'll wait until that day is right."Sarah, who competed on Sean Lowe 's The Bachelor season in 2013, began dating the filmmaker in March 2017.One month later, Sarah and Dylan went Instagram official when she shared a picture of the couple and gushed, "Happily not returning to this summer." She added the hashtags "Paradise Found" and "adventurebuds" to her post at the time.Sarah also previously appeared on Season 1 of in 2014, when she had dated Robert Graham, followed by Season 3 of BIP when she found herself caught in a love triangle with Daniel Maguire and Christian Bishop Sarah chose to date Daniel, a wise-cracking goofball, instead of Christian -- a decision many fans criticized because Christian had treated Sarah wonderfully on a date in Mexico and seemed to have honorable dating intentions.Although Daniel did appear to develop genuine feelings for Sarah, he admitted to cameras he just needed a rose in order to stay on the ABC reality dating show longer.Once it became time for Daniel to hand a rose to Sarah, he gave it to Haley Ferguson instead. Haley, one of the bubbly blonde twins from Ben Higgins ' season of The Bachelor, is now married.Interested in more The Bachelor news? Join our The Bachelor Facebook Group
Opposition parties on Sunday lashed out at the Bharatiya Janata Party after Nationalist Congress Party leader Ajit Pawar and eight others were inducted into the Eknath Shinde-led Maharashtra government, saying the ruling party's 'washing machine' has resumed its operation to clean tainted leaders and it was an 'ED-facilitated power grab'.

IMAGE: NCP supporters smear black ink on the posters of party leaders who joined the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) government, in Mumbai on Sunday. Photograph: ANI Photo

Ajit Pawar, who split the NCP and took oath as the deputy chief minister of Maharashtra, said his party decided to join the BJP-Shiv Sena government for the development of the country and praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership.

Raising the corruption allegations faced by the newly inducted ministers, the opposition parties said the BJP can no longer talk about fighting corruption after joining hands with them and alleged that democracy is being 'disrobed' in Maharashtra.

The BJP, however, took a dig at the opposition parties saying those trying to forge an alliance against it are unable to keep their leaders united.

Congress general secretary Jairam Ramesh said, "Clearly the BJP's washing machine has resumed its operations. A number of new entrants into the BJP-led alliance in Maharashtra today had been facing serious corruption charges with ED, CBI and Income Tax authorities after them. Now they have all got a clean chit."

The Congress will intensify its efforts to free Maharashtra from the clutches of the BJP, Ramesh asserted.

The Congress said its president Mallikarjun Kharge and party leader Rahul Gandhi spoke with NCP chief Sharad Pawar and extended support to him. Gandhi, however, did not refer to the Maharashtra developments in his address at a rally in Telangana.

'The BJP's dirty tricks department is working on overdrive in Maharashtra. This is not a legitimately elected government, but an ED-facilitated power grab. The Maharashtra government is a product of corruption and sin,' All India Congress Committee general secretary K C Venugopal alleged on Twitter.

The Congress is part of the Maha Vikas Aghadi alliance that also comprises Shiv Sena-Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray and Sharad Pawar-led NCP.

"The oath-taking ceremony in Maharashtra was part of Operation Lotus and it has no official support of NCP. Those who took oath, it is their personal decision and not that of the NCP," Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) spokesperson Mahesh Tapase said.

After the revolt, NCP chief Sharad Pawar said it is 'not a googly but a robbery', referring to BJP's move, and made it clear that his party will not fight the battle legally, and he would instead go to the people and seek their support.

He said Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently levelled allegations against the NCP saying that the party indulged in corruption.

"I am happy today that he gave cabinet berths to some colleagues from the NCP. It shows that the allegations of corruption were not factual. He has exonerated the party and all those against whom he had levelled allegations and I am thankful to the PM for this," he said.

After inducting 'corrupt men' as ministers, the BJP and Prime Minister Narendra Modi cannot talk about fighting corruption, senior Trinamool Congress leader Babul Supriyo, who was earlier a minister in the Modi government and had switched from the BJP, said.

Calling the BJP 'hypocrite', Supriyo, a minister in the Mamata Banerjee government in West Bengal, said tainted leaders under the scanner of ED for corruption have been put into a "washing machine" manufactured by the BJP to remove their stains and blemishes.

Shiv Sena-UBT Rajya Sabha leader Priyanka Chaturvedi tweeted, 'Principles be damned, BJP should be the last party in the country talking about ideological alliances. They are just political opportunists wanting power at any cost. With the latest development in Maharashtra, those MLAs who were corrupt and were jailed are now being sworn in as ministers!'

BJP national spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla took a swipe at the opposition leaders' attempt at forming an alliance to take on the BJP in 2024 and tweeted, 'PDA - Poora (completely) Disturbed Alliance?'

Those who cannot keep their parties and leaders united are trying to forge opposition unity 'from Rajasthan, Maharashtra, Karnataka to Bihar', Poonawalla charged and added, 'Gehlot, Pilot, DKS, Siddaramaiah, Manjhi...first unite them!'

Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav claimed that Maharashtra has emerged as a 'bigger laboratory' for the BJP after Madhya Pradesh and the saffron party will do other 'experiments' in the run-up to 2024 general elections to stay in power.

"BJP does this from time to time, first they did this in Madhya Pradesh, and then in Maharashtra, but people are watching this," Yadav told reporters in Lucknow.

Maharashtra Congress president Nana Patole said.

"This game of musical chairs is going to destroy democracy and the Constitution. Democracy is being disrobed in Maharashtra and the power-hungry Bharatiya Janata Party has a big role to play in it," Patole said.

Indian Youth Congress president Srinivas B V said NCP MLA Hasan Mushrif has become free from corruption charges after joining the Shinde-led government.

"A few days ago, ED had filed a case and raided his house and sugar factory. Today he has become corruption free after being cleaned in the washing machine completely. Will ED raid at his places again? he asked.

AAP leader Atishi said that BJP has declared openly now that all the corrupt should come to its fold and get 'cleaned off their sins in its washing machine'.

Congress leader Rashid Alvi said, "The BJP and PM Modi have violated the Constitution. It (Ajit Pawar joining the Maharashtra government) is the biggest joke on democracy. Rajiv Gandhi brought anti-defection law while Atal Bihari Vajpayee increased the number of MLAs (to change the party) to 2/3rd, so this is an insult to Vajpayee as well."

Former Maharashtra chief minister Ashok Chavan said the Shinde government was resorting to taking help from MLAs of other parties because of its own instability.

"After the opposition parties' meeting in Patna, they (BJP) are afraid, and that's why they want to break opposition parties," said DMK leader TKS Elangovan.

Shiv Sena-UBT leader Sanjay Raut claimed it was the beginning of the process of Eknath Shinde losing his chief minister's post.

But Chief Minister Shinde ridiculed the opposition parties who 'routinely predict' the fall of his government.

"From day one, opposition parties have been predicting the fall of the state government. Now, they must be very disappointed. I wonder which astrologer is giving them such advice," he said.

Rashtriya Janata Dal leader Mritunjay Tiwari also said the BJP has engineered the defection to save its government in Maharashtra.

Communist Party of India-Marxist leader Mohammad Yousuf Tarigami said it is one more lesson for the people and the Opposition to close ranks.

People's Democratic Party chief Mehbooba Mufti said no words are enough to condemn the manner in which the BJP has repeatedly undermined the popular mandate in Maharashtra.

"Not only is democracy being butchered but they are using the national anthem to provide cover for such disgraceful actions. On one hand, BJP is arresting political opponents on trumped-up corruption charges while they themselves are on an MLA purchasing spree. Hard-earned public money is being misused to quench BJP's thirst for power," she alleged.

In a swipe, Rajya Sabha MP Kapil Sibal tweeted, 'I guess this is the mother of democracy that Modiji was talking about in his address to the US Congress!'

'BJP doesn't believe in people's power, they only believe in politics of defections (jod-tod ki rajniti) and this time they will get a big shock,' Janata Dal-United president Rajiv Ranjan Singh alias Lalan Singh said.

BJP spokesperson R P Singh, however, said, 'India is developing rapidly and this is happening only because of PM Modi. Ajit Pawar knows this very well and that's why he decided to join hands with us.'

Union Minister Ramdas Athawale said Ajit Pawar was unhappy in the Opposition for a long time.

"Ajit Pawar's decision to join the NDA is a 'dashing decision' and this is a huge setback for Sharad Pawar," he added.

Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot alleged the BJP wants to 'eliminate' the Opposition on the basis of money power and central agencies.
Nationalist Congress Party leader Ajit Pawar, who took oath as Maharashtra's deputy chief minister on Sunday, said his party decided to join the Eknath Shinde-led government in the interest of the state and the country, and praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership..

IMAGE: Maharashtra Governor Ramesh Bais with Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and newly-sworn-in deputy CM Ajit Pawar and other ministers at Raj Bhavan in Mumbai after the swearing-in ceremony on July 02, 2023. Photograph: Sahil Salvi

Maintaining that there was no split in the NCP, Pawar said all the elected representatives (of the party) have supported the decision to join the government, and that they would contest all the future elections on the NCP's name and symbol.

Pawar took oath as the deputy chief minister, while eight MLAs of the (NCP) took oath as ministers in the Shinde government earlier in the day.

Defending his decision to share power with the Bharatiya Janata Party in the state, he told reporters, "If we can go with the Shiv Sena, then we can go with the BJP as well. The same thing happened in Nagaland as well."

After the 2019 Maharashtra Assembly polls, the Shiv Sena (undivided) had joined hands with the NCP and the Congress to form the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) government, which collapsed in June 2022 after Eknath Shinde's rebellion against Uddhav Thackeray's party leadership.

"All the (NCP) MLAs are with us and also informed the top leadership. In a democracy, majority opinion has to be respected," Pawar said.

When asked about NCP chief Sharad Pawar's views on joining the Shinde-led government, he said new leadership should come forward.

"All the MLAs, MPs and party workers are with us. We have communicated our decision to all the elected representatives. Some of them are out of station while a few are out of the country. Most of them will reach Mumbai by this evening," he added.

The cabinet portfolios will be announced in a couple of days and we will immediately start working on it, he said.

"We have a huge country and population. That is why we took the decision to join hands with the BJP-Shiv Sena government in the interest of the state and the country," Pawar said.

Talking about PM Modi, he said that after 1984, it was for the first time that one leader has gained huge popularity and his leadership was widely accepted.

"Show me one opposition party who is thinking about the country and working accordingly. Most of the opposition leaders are thinking about their respective states only," he alleged.

"We felt that all the forthcoming elections, including the next year's Lok Sabha, should be contested with the BJP under Modi's leadership. This would benefit Maharashtra as well as the country," he said.

"Overall and comprehensive development was taken into account. We have a vast experience of the administration, we can utilise it for the good," he added.

His party colleague Chhagan Bhujbal, who also took oath as a cabinet minister, told reporters, "We realised that in order to solve the issues faced by people, we cannot only fight and agitate, but we need to take some positive steps. Therefore, we have taken the decision."

One thing cannot be ignored that the leadership of the country is in the hands of PM Modi, he said.

"PM Modi has taken a lot of efforts to take decisions and solve pending issues. Several issues of OBCs can be solved by being in power," he said.

Bhujbal is a prominent OBC leader in the state.

"In one of the recent meetings, Sharad Pawar had told us that PM Narendra Modi will win the 2024 general elections. We did not see all the opposition parties coming together. We decided to join the government to solve the issues faced by the people," he said.

Some people would say that we have decided to join the government because of the ongoing investigation against some of us, he said.

"All the cases against Ajit Pawar are nil now. A major case against me is now almost over," Bhujbal said.

Even Hasan Mushrif (who took oath on Sunday) faced some probes, but the court has not taken any coercive action against him. The court is giving new dates, because there was no strong evidence against him, he claimed.

Industries Minister Uday Samant, who belongs to the Shinde-led Shiv Sena, said as part of the MVA, Shiv Sena expected the then chief minister (Uddhav Thackeray) to ensure equal distribution of development funds to all MLAs, which was not happening.

But Ajit Pawar, Eknath Shinde, Devendra Fadnavis are all people's leaders, he said.

"So now we will have no problem in distribution of funds and also seat-sharing to contest elections," Samant said.

"The chemistry of these three leaders is perfect, but earlier there was 'chemical locha' (imbalance)," he said.
The Maharashtra Congress has convened a meeting of its legislators on Tuesday in view of the developments in the state that saw a split in the Nationalist Congress Party and Ajit Pawar being inducted as deputy chief minister in the Eknath Shinde government.

IMAGE: Maharashtra Congress president Nana Patole with party leader Balasaheb Thorat. Photograph: ANI Photo

The meeting has been convened by Congress Legislature Party leader Balasaheb Thorat.

Thorat called the developments unfortunate and said people are watching them and would give a verdict against such moves in the polls.

The Congress' Maha Vikas Aghadi allies Shiv Sena and the Nationalist Congress Party have now seen splits in the last one year.

The Sena split in June last year after a rebellion by Shinde, who became CM with the support of the Bharatiya Janata Party.

Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge and party leader Rahul Gandhi spoke with NCP chief Sharad Pawar on Sunday and extended support to him.

The Congress said that the BJP's 'washing machine' has resumed its operations as a number of these leaders had been facing serious corruption charges and have now got a 'clean chit'.

In a surprising move, Ajit Pawar took oath as the deputy chief minister, while eight legislators of his NCP took oath as ministers in the government led by the Shiv Sena and the Bharatiya Janata Party earlier in the day.

Congress president Kharge and Gandhi spoke with NCP president Sharad Pawar and extended support to him, All India Congress Committee general secretary K C Venugopal said on Twitter.

"The BJP's dirty tricks department is working on overdrive in Maharashtra. This is not a legitimately elected government, but an ED-facilitated power grab. The Maharashtra government is a product of corruption and sin," Venugopal alleged.

"The people have very well identified the traitors, corrupt and compromised leaders of Maharashtra and each of them will be taught the lessons of their lifetime in the next elections," he said.

On June 29, PM Modi had spoken about corruption and it appears he switched on the 'washing machine' and these leaders are now squeaky clean after this oath-taking ceremony, Venugopal said.

Reacting to the development, Congress general secretary Jairam Ramesh said, "Clearly the BJP's Washing Machine has resumed its operations. A number of new entrants into the BJP-led alliance in Maharashtra today had been facing serious corruption charges with ED, CBI and Income Tax authorities after them. Now they have all got a clean chit."

The Congress will intensify its efforts to free Maharashtra from the clutches of the BJP, Ramesh asserted.

Maharashtra Congress president Nana Patole also slammed the BJP for its 'power hungry politics'.

"The BJP has an alliance with Ajit Pawar whose party was accused of corruption by Prime Minister Narendra Modi," Patole said, adding that he wondered if the BJP was playing musical chairs in anticipation of Shinde and several of his MLAs being disqualified.

"Just the other day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi accused the Nationalist Congress Party of corruption of Rs 70,000 crore. Now, the BJP will have to answer how the same Narendra Modi and Devendra Fadnavis are sitting in power with an NCP faction," he said.

Patole said people are aware who is making a deal with whom for power, adding that the departure of the NCP faction will not have any impact on the Congress alliance, which will return to power due to the trust of the voters.

Asserting that the Congress was the only credible party in the state, Patole asked if 'Eknath Shinde's Hindutva' can now co-exist happily with the NCP faction.

Senior Congress leader Prithviraj Chavan told PTI Maharashtra Assembly Speaker Rahul Narwekar will have to take a decision to disqualify Shinde and 15 MLAs by August 11, failing which the Congress will move the Supreme Court.

"Today's development is preparing the ground," the former chief minister said.

The BJP has joined hands with an NCP faction by playing the politics of sabotage as public support is dwindling, Patole said.

"This game of musical chairs is going to destroy democracy and the Constitution. Democracy is being disrobed in Maharashtra and the power-hungry Bharatiya Janata Party has a big role to play in it," Patole said.

He said landslide Congress victories in Karnataka and Himachal Pradesh had made the BJP jittery, which knows it is also staring at defeat in Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh, where polls are to be held in the year end.

In Maharashtra too, the Congress is getting the support of people, which led to the BJP causing a split in the NCP despite the state government enjoying a clear majority in the House, he added.

CM Shinde used to accuse Uddhav Thackeray of abandoning Hindutva by joining hands with the Congress and NCP, but he himself was now allied with Ajit Pawar, said Patole.

Shinde will need to answer to the people about this u-turn, the Maharashtra Congress leader said.
Its a miracle of stupidity: Jordan Peterson told Dave Ramsey that this is the number-one thing Americans need to accomplish their goals  and its dead simple

Its a miracle of stupidity: Jordan Peterson told Dave Ramsey that this is the number-one thing Americans need to accomplish their goals  and its dead simple

When it comes to vision, many Americans get the concepts importance when it comes to their love lives and family goals. But what about finances? Maybe feeling spent  literally  is more like it.

On a recent episode of The Ramsey Show, Canadian psychologist Dr. Jordan Peterson contended that its fairly shocking that so many Americans have failed to visualize their financial goals.

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Its a miracle of stupidity, Peterson said. Its the number-one thing we should be teaching people, and we dont do it at all!

Peterson told host Dave Ramsey that while poverty has many causes, the absence of a plan ranks high up there. And despite the widespread belief that only the rich get richer, Peterson stated that even the rich cant achieve their goals  financial or otherwise  without planning.

You need to develop a vision for your life, he stressed. And that makes delaying gratification for example, and not engaging in impulsive momentary pleasure, worthwhile because youre building towards something that you actually want to attain.

A vision helps you keep going

If you ask Peterson, it boils down to some fairly simple questions. Americans need to ask themselves who they want to be and why; where they see themselves in five years; and what theyre building towards. In other words: Why work if theres nothing worthwhile at the end of the line?

Ramsey further argued that not only does having a high definition vision benefit you in the long run, but also in the short term as burnout goes away.

Youre probably tired, but youre not burnt out, Ramsey added.

This comes as you work towards a goal, Peterson explained. You experience the hopes, joys and other strong positive emotions that come with achieving that goal little by little. And that in turn makes you want to work even harder and improve your focus.

No goal, you have none of that! No vision, no goal! Peterson said. So youre not going to get tired and feel hard done by if your sacrifices youre endeavoring to do are clearly worthwhile by your own definition.

Read more: Here are 7 amazing 1-week vacations you can do for around $1,000

Map it out

To help, Peterson created an exercise for helping come up with your vision: Imagine yourself in five years. You can have what you want and need but first you must map out exactly what that looks like. Now commit that map to paper, writing for 15 minutes straight.

Dont worry about getting it right, Peterson said. Just get it down for 15 minutes.

For some, its easier to carry out the exercise by pretending youre caring for yourself in the same way you would for a friend or child.

Having a goal in mind seemed crucial to unlocking how young Americans could visualize a future that includes a solid education. Peterson says American teenagers who participated in this Future Authoring program before they went to college saw incredible results. He claims grade point averages (GPA) were 35% higher and dropout rates plummeted to 50% lower than the national average.

Our school system was set up to produce mindless, obedient workers, Peterson went on. We havent updated our notion of what schools are for 140 years!

To shift from this expectation, Peterson recommends that Americans avoid working merely out of circumstance. Instead, set goals on your own terms. You can imagine that dream life with less effort than you think.

Daydream, like when you were a kid, he said. You want to bind that with a little intelligent rationality  within the realm of possibility.

With a vision thats possible while still compelling, youll be well on your way to a life thats worth dreaming about  but you probably already saw that in your vision of the future.

What to read next

This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind.
A mass cremation was held on Sunday of 24 out of the 25 victims charred to death after a private bus caught fire in Maharashtra's Buldhana district, a senior official said.

IMAGE: People gather near the charred remains of a bus after it caught fire while travelling from Maharashtra's Yavatmal to Pune on the Samruddhi Mahamarg Expressway in Buldhana on Saturday. Photograph: ANI Photo

The body of one of the victims will be handed over to the family for burial, an official said earlier in the day.

As most of the victims were charred beyond recognition after the bus caught fire in the early hours of Saturday, efforts were made to convince their families for mass cremation of the bodies instead of their DNA analysis, the official said.

The DNA testing is a lengthy procedure which may take days to ascertain the identity of the deceased, as per sources.

The mass cremation of 24 bodies was held at Vaikunth Dham Hindu Smashan Bhoomi in Buldhana on Sunday.

Relatives of the deceased and Maharashtra minister Girish Mahajan were present during the cremation and paid homage to the deceased.

The 25 passengers were charred to death as the private bus they were travelling in caught fire after hitting a divider on the Nagpur-Mumbai 'Samruddhi Expressway' in eastern Maharashtra's Buldhana district at around 1.30 am on Saturday, police earlier said.

The deceased included 11 male and 14 female passengers. Ten of the victims were from Wardha, seven from Pune, four from Nagpur and two each from Yavatmal and Washim.

The family members of the 25 deceased have reached Buldhana, according to local administration.

Eight persons, including the driver and 'cleaner' (driver's assistant), survived the horrific accident.

A case for negligent driving was registered against the bus driver on Saturday with police believing that, prima facie, he dozed off and lost control of the vehicle.

Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde has ordered a probe into the accident and announced an ex gratia assistance of Rs 5 lakh for the families of each deceased.
Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Sunday cited Delhi's alleged 'liquor scam' to accuse Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrashekar Rao of being under 'remote control' of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

IMAGE: Congress leader Rahul Gandhi during a public meeting, in Khammam on Sunday. Photograph: ANI Photo

Some Telangana leaders have also allegedly come under the scanner in the Delhi liquor scam case, besides leaders of the Aam Aadmi Party, which is in power in the national capital.

"Telangana and its youth should understand one thing that KCR is under the control of Prime Minister Modi because of his corruption activities. The corruption he did in the liquor scam, is known to all agencies," Gandhi said at a public meeting in Khammam.

"That's why I said that TRS is BJP's B-Team and they have accepted that by changing their name to BRS, which means BJP Rishtedar Samithi," he added.

The Enforcement Directorate had arrested Arun Ramchandra Pillai, an alleged frontman for the liquor cartel 'South Group', in a money laundering case related to the Delhi excise policy case.

He is said to be a close aide of Bharat Rashtra Samiti MLC and Chief Minister Rao's daughter K Kavitha.

Kavitha has also been questioned in the case related to the now-scrapped Delhi excise policy for 2020-21.

Gandhi said when the Congress raised the farmers' bill issue in Parliament, the TRS (Telangana Rashtra Samiti, now known as BRS or Bharat Rashtra Samiti) supported the BJP.

"Whatever Modi wants, Rao does for him. Because Modi has got remote control of KCR," he said. Chief Minister K Chandrashekar Rao is popularly called KCR.

Referring to the recent Karnataka assembly elections, the former Congress chief said, "A few months ago, we fought against a corrupt and anti-poor government in Karnataka and we defeated it."

"We defeated the BJP in Karnataka where they were supported by their billionaire friends and something similar is going to happen in Telangana. On one side, there is the chief minister, his family and his 10-15 billionaire friends, and the other side has all the poor, dalits, tribals, minorities, small shopkeepers, farmers and small workers, who will all together repeat what has happened in Karnataka," he said.

"Like we defeated the BJP in Karnataka, we will defeat BJP's B-team in Telangana," Gandhi said.

On the recent attempts to forge an opposition unity against the BJP for the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, he said, "When opposition parties met, they told us that TRS should also be called, but we told them very clearly that if TRS attends this meeting, the Congress would not attend it."

"We told the opposition parties that TRS is BJP's B-team and we will throw them out of Telangana. We can't do any deal with the BJP's B-team," Gandhi said.

While BRS was not part of the recent opposition meeting in Patna, Bihar, the Aam Aadmi Party after attending the meet said that any alliance with the Congress would be 'very difficult' until the grand old party agrees to oppose the Centre's Delhi ordinance.

Gandhi, however, did not say anything about the developments in Maharashtra where a big chunk of the Sharad Pawar-led Nationalist Congress Party on Sunday switched sides, a development being seen as a major jolt to the opposition bloc.

"I also want to tell one thing, there are many people who have left the Congress party. Our doors are always open for everyone. Whoever believes in the Congress ideology, our doors are always open for them. But whoever believes in the ideologies of the BJP and the TRS, we do not have anything to do with those people," he said as a number of leaders, including from the BRS, joined his party.

"I want to tell workers of the Congress that they are our backbone and they can easily defeat the TRS. You have shown your power in Karnataka and now is the time to do the same here in Telangana," Gandhi said.

He also promised Rs 4,000 per month pension for senior citizens and widows, and land for tribals.

"This is another step to help the poor," the Congress leader said.
In the wake of nine Nationalist Congress Party leaders, including Ajit Pawar, joining the Eknath Shinde government, party chief Sharad Pawar has convened a meeting on July 5 in Mumbai to discuss the developments and the future course of action, its state unit chief Jayant Patil said on Sunday.

IMAGE: Maharashtra Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) president Jayant Patil addresses the press, in Mumbai on Sunday. Leader of Opposition in Maharashtra Assembly Jitendra Awhad also present. Photograph: ANI Photo

Earlier in the day, Ajit Pawar led a vertical split in the party to become the deputy chief minister, while eight other NCP leaders were sworn in as ministers in the Shiv Sena-Bharatiya Janata Party government.

Talking to reporters, Patil said the meeting will be held at 1 pm on Wednesday at the Y B Chavan Centre in south Mumbai.

"NCP as a party doesn't support the Eknath Shinde-BJP government. Many of the MLAs who have signed the letter of support to the government, called me saying that they were confused and will always back Sharad Pawar," he said.

He said some leaders in the party would often demand that the party go with the BJP, but the party's top leadership never approved of it, he said.

He said the nine NCP leaders have taken oath as ministers going against the party's ideals.

"As of now, nine of our party MLAs have become ministers . Others had gone to witness the swearing-in," Patil said.

Ajit Pawar has the support of more than 40 MLAs and over six MLCs of his party, sources claimed citing a letter submitted to the Raj Bhavan.

The party has 53 MLAs and nine MLCs.
Nationalist Congress Party spokesperson Mahesh Tapase on Sunday said the oath taken by nine NCP MLAs as ministers in the Eknath Shinde-led Maharashtra government does not have official support of the party.

IMAGE: Maharashtra Governor Ramesh Bais congratulates the newly sworn-in Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar during a ceremony, at Raj Bhavan, in Mumbai on Sunday. State Deputy CM Devendra Fadnavis is also seen . Photograph: ANI Photo

Senior NCP leader Ajit Pawar was sworn in as deputy chief minister while eight MLAs of the party took oath as ministers in the government led by the Shiv Sena and the Bharatiya Janata Party earlier in the day.

In a video message, Tapase said NCP's party workers, district president, taluka president, youth and women are with party's national leader Sharad Pawar.

"The oath-taking ceremony in Maharashtra was part of Operation Lotus and it has no official support of NCP. Those who took oath, it is their personal decision and not that of the NCP," he said.

Elections to the 288-member state Assembly are due next year.

The political development comes a year after a revolt led by Shinde against the Shiv Sena (then undivided) led to the collapse of the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) government.

On June 30, 2022, Shinde was sworn in as the CM with BJP leader Devendra Fadnavis as the deputy CM.
With reports surfacing of differences between Eknath Shinde and Devendra Fadnavis, Fadnavis was out seeking new allies.

A disgruntled Ajit Pawar was easy to persuade.

IMAGE: Nationalist Congress Party Maharashtra President Jayant Patil, right, interacts with Ajit Pawar during the party's OBC wing meeting in Nagpur, June 3, 2023. Photograph: ANI Photo

'At the national level, I will report to Sharad Pawar and Praful Patel. In the state, I will report to Ajit Pawar, Chhagan Bhujbal, and Jayant Patil,' Supriya Sule, the new working president of the Nationalist Congress Party, was quoted as saying in last month.

So many bosses!

In a way, that tells its own story.

In May this year, Pawar announced almost casually that he was stepping down from the presidency of the party he had founded in 1999 and would contest no more elections.

He also set up a committee to decide on the succession. That report was submitted a few days ago.

The result? No party position for nephew Ajit, who has run things in the NCP in Maharashtra for some time now, although he continued to be Leader of the Opposition in the Maharashtra assembly -- a position he acquired after some struggle.

Among Sule's bosses is Patil, whom the party sees as an alternative pole of power to Ajit.

When the Uddhav Thackeray government fell, the Shiv Sena split, and the Eknath Shinde Shiv Sena faction formed the government with the BJP.

It was not Patil who was named Leader of the Opposition in the Assembly but Ajit.

Patil had already staked claim to the position and, as party president of the Maharashtra unit, was required to write a letter to the Speaker.

When he was told it was Ajit who would be occupying the post, he simply sat on the letter; it took two calls from Patel to get him to issue it.

For those following Maharashtra politics, this was the very public ramification of an internal power tussle.

Ajit has been deputy chief minister of Maharashtra, but believes he hasn't gotten his due.

Pawar assured Ajit that he would secure the position of deputy CM for him under a Uddhav Thackeray-led government.

But Ajit thought he could outdo his uncle in the deal-making department, and after the assembly elections, he went to the Bharatiya Janata Party with an offer they could not refuse.

The action suggested that MLAs in the party were with him.

But he could not cobble up the requisite numbers, and the move failed, with him returning to the party. That showed he was a man in a hurry.

Speaking at Baramati some time ago, it was Pawar who best described his nephew. Ajit, by nature, is different,' the senior Pawar said.

'He is someone who loves to work on the ground and is result-oriented. He is not media-friendly and is not bothered by publicity. He is working for the party and the state. But there are misconceptions about him,' he said.

The latest events suggest otherwise.

IMAGE: Nationalist Congress Party leader Chhagan Bhujbal, left, speaks as Sharad Pawar, his wife Pratibha Pawar, nephew Ajit Pawar and other NCP leaders listen after Sharad Pawar announced his decision to step down as NCP president at the Y B Chavan auditorium in Mumbai, May 2, 2023. Photograph: ANI Photo

Already, banners have appeared all over Mumbai declaring Ajit as the new CM.

With reports surfacing of differences between CM Shinde and Deputy CM Devendra Fadnavis, the parting of ways between the two parties cannot be ruled out.

Fadnavis will be out in the market seeking new allies. A disgruntled Ajit might be easy to persuade.

Although Pawar is propelling the party in the direction of the Opposition, there is nothing to suggest he would not assent to this plan.

Books have been written about a call Fadnavis made to Pawar to seal Ajit's defection.

Talks appeared to be at such an advanced stage that the NCP and the BJP discussed not just portfolios but even guardian ministers once they'd helped each other form the government.

A conversation between Pawar and Prime Minister Narendra D Modi on this issue has also been described in the books.

As many as 40 MLAs of the 53-member NCP in the Maharashtra assembly were reportedly ready to jump ship.

If it could happen once, it can happen again.

Ajit has been quite critical of the Congress leadership's attitude towards the PM.

The last time he spoke out was when Mallikarjun Kharge described Modi and others as 'venomous snakes' during the Karnataka election campaign.

'Today Modi is our PM. Before that, there was Manmohan Singh and Atal Bihari Vajpayee. It does not feel right to make such a statement about the PM of the country or the CM of the state,' he said at the time.

In a sense, he was reflecting the commonly held but rarely expressed view in the Opposition that attacks on the PM can be politically counterproductive.

In the politics of the NCP, the person to watch in the future might not be cousin and Working President Supriya Sule, but Ajit Pawar.

Feature Presentation: Aslam Hunani/Rediff.com
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Moving abroad can be an exciting and life-changing experience, but it also requires careful planning, especially when it comes to your finances. Whether youre moving for work, retirement or simply seeking a new adventure, its crucial to ensure your financial affairs are in order before you embark on your international journey.

Tips: Suze Ormans Top 26 Tips That Will Save You From Financial Disaster

See: How To Build Your Savings From Scratch

To help you navigate this complex process, weve put together a comprehensive financial checklist. By following these steps, you can set yourself up for a smooth transition into your new life abroad. Bon voyage!

1. Accounts and Investments

Before moving abroad, review your existing bank accounts, credit cards and investments. Inform your financial institutions about your relocation plans to ensure uninterrupted access to your accounts. Consider opening an international bank account that offers convenient currency conversion and low transaction fees. Research local banking options in your destination country and be prepared to provide the necessary documentation to open a new account.

Know your banks fees, and know how to get in touch with your bank if it needs to be by phone, said Becca Siegel, travel expert from Half Half Travel. This might sound easier than it is: your bank could have fees for foreign withdrawals or overdrafts, and if you need to place an international call, you may need more than just the WhatsApp app on desktop. Have either an international calling plan or a service like GoogleFi to be able to seamlessly call an 800 number to get in touch and resolve issues.

Just because youre moving doesnt mean your investments need to, too, said Shelley Marmor, the face behind Travel to Oaxaca and a happy expat in Mexico. Evaluate your portfolio and consider if you need to rebalance considering your future plans. Also, bear in mind that your new country might have different rules about foreign investments. 

Im a Financial Planning Expert: Here Are 5 Things You Should Never Spend Money on If You Want To Be Rich

2. Housing

One of the most significant expenses youll encounter when moving abroad is housing. Research the cost of living in your destination country and city to determine an appropriate budget for accommodation. Decide whether you want to rent or buy property and explore local real estate markets. Consider engaging a local real estate agent who can guide you through the process and help you understand any legal requirements or restrictions.

When I moved, I had to make a choice between selling, renting out, or keeping my property in the States, Marmor said. If you decide to rent out your property, youll have to consider hiring a property manager and understanding the tax implications. On the other hand, if youre thinking about buying a house in your new country, youll need to understand the local housing market and the mortgage system, which might be vastly different from what youre used to.

3. Taxes

Understanding the tax implications of moving abroad is crucial to avoid any potential legal issues. Consult with a tax professional who specializes in international tax laws to determine your tax obligations both in your home country and the country youre moving to. Some countries have tax treaties that may affect your liability, and you may be eligible for certain tax benefits as an expatriate. Ensure you comply with all reporting requirements and deadlines to avoid penalties.

Its an open secret that Uncle Sam likes to keep tabs on us, even if were not in the States, Marmor said. So, understanding your tax obligations before moving is not just smart, its essential. Remember, some countries have tax treaties with the U.S., which can be a blessing.

4. Retirement and Benefits

If youre moving abroad permanently, assess how your retirement savings and benefits will be affected. Research the regulations and eligibility criteria for Social Security benefits, pensions and retirement accounts in both your home and destination countries. Determine whether you need to transfer your retirement funds or if you can continue contributing to them from abroad. Consult with a financial advisor to make informed decisions regarding your retirement planning.

5. Estate Planning

Moving abroad also calls for reviewing your estate planning documents, such as wills, trusts and powers of attorney. Different countries have varying legal systems and inheritance laws, so consult with an estate planning attorney who is knowledgeable about international law. Update your documents to ensure they align with the laws of your new country and reflect your current wishes.

6. Physical Documents

Gather all important physical documents and make copies or digital scans of them before you move. This includes passports, birth certificates, marriage certificates, insurance policies, investment statements and any other legal or financial documents. Keep both physical and digital copies in a secure location accessible to you and a trusted individual, such as a family member or attorney.

7. Consult an Immigration Professional

Navigating immigration laws and obtaining the necessary visas or residency permits can be complex. You might want to start by consulting an immigration professional who can guide you through the process and ensure you meet all legal requirements. They can provide valuable advice on the necessary paperwork, timelines and any specific conditions or restrictions that may apply to your situation.

Maybe not the cheapest option in the short run but dont be penny-wise and pound-foolish when it comes to moving abroad, said Richard Bexon, managing director of Investing Costa Rica. Having someone to rely on to help you find a rental/home, open bank accounts, meet you at the airport, organize initial car delivery, cell phone, utilities, etc., will pay its weight in gold! Especially important if you dont speak the local language!

Are You Ready for the Next Step?

Moving abroad requires careful consideration and planning, especially when it comes to your finances. By following this comprehensive financial checklist, you can set yourself up for a successful transition and avoid any unnecessary financial hurdles. Remember to be proactive, seek professional advice and stay organized throughout the process. Whether its the cobblestone streets of Firenze or the beaches of Brazil, with proper preparation, you can embrace your new adventure with peace of mind and financial stability in your new home.

More From GOBankingRates

This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: Moving Abroad? Heres the Financial Checklist You Need
The Enforcement Directorate on Saturday said it has arrested three people who were allegedly running fake call centres in Mathura district of Uttar Pradesh for "cheating" foreign nations from countries such as the US, Canada and the Philippines by luring them with cheap loans.

The federal probe agency said in a statement that it arrested the alleged "mastermind" Shahnawaz Ahmed Jeelan, who had a pseudonym Davind Morrison, and his two "close associates" Vipin Kumar Sharma and Viraj Singh Kuntal. A special Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) court sent them to ED custody till July 5, it said.

The arrests came after the agency launched raids at a total of 14 premises in Rajasthan -- Jaipur and Nagaur -- and Mathura, Kanpur, Prayagraj and Lucknow in Uttar Pradesh on June 27 in a money laundering case linked to "fraud with foreign nationals in the guise of cheaper/concessional loans." Rs 90.37 lakh in cash was seized by the agency during these searches apart from "incriminating" material from the two Mathura call centres that contained "details of thousands of foreign nationals cheated by the accused over the years".

The agency said it has traced the money trail of about Rs 54 crore "proceeds of crime" sent to India by the victims in the accounts of more than 50 entities "controlled" by Jeelani, his alleged associate Mahmud Khan and others.

Some people working in these call centres had also worked in a similar fake setup in Jaipur, against whom the Rajasthan Police too had booked some criminal cases in the past, the ED said. PTI NES CK
President Joe Biden will host Sweden's prime minister at the White House on Wednesday in a show of solidarity as the United States presses for the Nordic nation's entry into NATO, a bid stalled by objections from two members of the Western military alliance.

Biden and Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson plan to review our growing security cooperation and reaffirm their view that Sweden should join NATO as soon as possible, the White House said a statement Saturday. The leaders also will discuss the war in Ukraine and China.

Sweden and neighbor Finland dropped their long-standing military neutrality after Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022 and applied for NATO membership, seeking protection under the organization's security umbrella.

Finland, which shares an 832-mile (1,340 kilometer) border with Russia, joined NATO in April. Sweden, which has avoided military alliances for more than 200 years, has seen its ascension delayed by Turkey and Hungary; NATO requires the unanimous approval of all members to expand.

NATO had hoped the road to Sweden's membership would be smoothed out before the alliance's summit July 11-12 in Vilnius, the capital of Lithuania. Swedens entry would be a highly symbolic moment and the latest indication of how Russias war is driving countries to join the alliance.

But Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has resisted, with his government accusing Sweden of being too lenient toward groups that it says pose a security threat, including militant Kurdish organizations and people associated with a 2016 coup attempt in Turkey.

This past week, he condemned Sweden over a Quran-burning protest. Swedish police allowed the protest outside a mosque in central Stockholm, citing freedom of speech after a court overturned a ban on a similar Quran-burning.

NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg said he would gather senior officials from Turkey, Sweden and Finland this coming Thursday to try to overcome Turkey's objections.

Hungary also has yet to ratify Swedens bid. Hungarian lawmakers said a long-delayed parliamentary vote on that would not would not happen until the autumn legislative session.

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbans government has alleged that Swedish politicians have told blatant lies about the condition of his country's democracy. High-ranking Hungarian officials have said they support Swedens membership bid while also making vague demands from Stockholm as conditions for approval.
The North Korean government has escalated its efforts to suppress what they refer to as "puppet language", which refers to the South Korean dialect of Korean. Individuals in North Korea who are found using slang or vocabulary from the southern region may be subjected to punishments such as forced labor in a prison camp or even death, in accordance with the Pyongyang Cultural Language Protection Act. Residents who are already accustomed to the South Korean way of speaking now feel like they have to practice the Pyongyang dialect, a resident in the northwestern province of North Pyongan told Radio Free Asia (RFA). They are worried that South Korean words will unintentionally or unknowingly come out of their mouths and that they will be punished, he said.

According to the report, North Korean women are prohibited from using terms like "jagiya" or "oppa" to refer to their husbands or boyfriends. Instead, they are required to use the term "dongji" (comrade). Additionally, North Koreans are expected to refrain from incorporating South Korean loan words derived from English into their language, including words like "paesyeon" (fashion), "heeoseutail" (hairstyle), and "waipeu" (wife), reported South China Morning Post.

Even openly saying I love you is evidence that they have seen South Korean movies and such language has become normalised, the report added. North Korean authorities are making this change as they are intent on wiping out the rotten language of capitalism, RFA reported. There have been documented cases in the past of individuals facing consequences for adopting South Korean speech patterns in North Korea. Additionally, there have been disturbing incidents where people have been executed for attempting to sell prohibited videos and music.

South Korea picks North Korea human rights critic as Unification Minister

In a cabinet reshuffle, South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol has appointed a conservative scholar who is known for being critical of North Korea's human rights record as the new unification minister responsible for handling relations with Pyongyang, reported Reuters. Kim Yung-ho, a political science professor at Sungshin Women's University, has been nominated for the position. Yoon has been actively highlighting human rights abuses in North Korea, especially given the recent increase in tensions on the Korean peninsula. Back in March, Yoon emphasised the need for the international community to have a better understanding of the situation in North Korea. Kim, aged 63, previously served as a presidential secretary for unification and a human rights envoy during the conservative administrations of Lee Myung-bak and Park Geun-hye.
US President Joe Biden will head to Europe at weeks end for a three-country trip intended to bolster the international coalition against Russian aggression as the war in Ukraine extends well into its second year. The main focus of Bidens five-day visit will be the annual NATO summit, held this year in Vilnius, Lithuania. Also planned are stops in Helsinki, Finland, to commemorate the Nordic countrys entrance into the 31-nation military alliance in April, and Britain, the White House announced Sunday.

Biden will begin his trip next Sunday in London, meeting with King Charles III. The president did not attend Charless coronation in May, sending first lady Jill Biden to represent the United States. In June, Biden hosted British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak at the White House, where the two leaders pledged continued cooperation in defending Ukraine.

The NATO meeting comes at the latest critical point in the war. Ukraines president, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, says counteroffensive and defensive actions against Russian forces are underway as Ukrainian troops start to recapture territory in the southeastern part of the country, according to its military leaders. Jens Stoltenberg, NATOs secretary-general, visited the White House on June 13, where he and Biden made clear that the Western alliance was united in defending Ukraine. Biden said during that meeting that he and other NATO leaders will work to ensure that each member country spends the requisite 2% of its gross domestic product on defense.

The NATO allies have never been more united. We both worked like hell to make sure that happened. And so far, so good, Biden said as he sat alongside Stoltenberg, who is expected to extend his term for another year. We see our joint strength in modernizing the relationship within NATO, as well as providing assistance to defense capabilities to Ukraine.

When Finland joined NATO in April, it effectively doubled Russias border with the worlds biggest security alliance. Biden has highlighted the strengthened NATO alliance as a signal of Moscows declining influence.

Sweden is also seeking entry into NATO, although alliance members Turkey and Hungary have yet to endorse the move. Biden will host Swedens prime minister, Ulf Kristersson, at the White House on Wednesday in a show of solidarity as the United States presses for the Nordic nations entry into NATO.

Turkeys president, Recep Tayyip Erdogan, has said Sweden is too lax on terrorist groups and security threats. Stoltenberg has said Sweden has met its obligations for membership through toughening anti-terrorist laws and other measures.

Hungarys reasons for opposing Sweden have been less defined, complaining about Swedens criticism of democratic backsliding and the erosion of rule of law. Hungary, while providing humanitarian aid to Ukraine, has also sought to balance its relations between NATO and Russia. Budapest is heavily reliant on Russia for its energy requirements.

All nations in the alliance have to ratify the entry of a new member country. The White House has stressed that Sweden has fulfilled its commitments to join NATO and has urged that it join the alliance expeditiously.
On July 1, 2022, thousands of people in Karakalpakstan took to the streets to demonstrate against proposed changes to Uzbekistans constitution which, if enacted, would have stripped the region of its status as a sovereign republic with the right to secede. When police and security forces moved to disperse the peaceful protesters, violence broke out. At least 21 people were killed. What has happened in the year since the Karakalpakstan tragedy? Joining host Bruce Pannier to discuss are Gulyaim Ahmedova, a pseudonym for a native of Karakalpakstan now living outside Uzbekistan; Joanna Lillis, a veteran Central Asia journalist who has been in Karakalpakstan several times since the violence; and Steve Swerdlow, a rights lawyer who has spent many years focusing on Central Asia, and is currently an associate professor at the University of Southern California.
Serbian government critics and opposition supporters have continued to hold protests triggered by two unrelated gun attacks in early May. On June 30, protesters blocked a highway leading through Belgrade. On July 1, thousands gathered outside the headquarters of the private Pink television station. The demonstrators accuse the broadcaster of promoting violence and hate speech. The media outlet deployed bodyguards outside its offices and hung a large Serbian national flag from the building.
Russia on July 20 launched a third consecutive round of air strikes on southern Ukraine, targeting port installations and grain storage facilities as well as civilian infrastructure and killing at least two people, regional officials said.

The attacks came after Russia refused to extend a UN-sponsored deal that had allowed shipments of Ukrainian grain abroad, and warned that it would consider cargo ships on the Black Sea destined for Ukraine as potential military targets.

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 counteroffensive, 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 Mykolayiv, one person was killed and at least 18 civilians, including children, were wounded in an attack on a three-story residential building in the city center, regional Governor Vitaliy Kim said.

"The Russians hit the city center. A garage and a three-story residential building caught fire.... A total of 18 people were injured. Nine of them were hospitalized, including five children, while two people were rescued from under the rubble. It's a miracle that we managed to save them," Kim said.

In Odesa, at least two civilians, one of them a 21-year-old man, were killed in the strikes that targeted grain and oil terminals, and also caused destruction in the city center, Odesa region Governor Oleh Kiper reported.

"Unfortunately, as a result of the overnight Russian attack, we have one person killed in Odesa. The deceased is a security guard of a civil building, born in 2002," he said, adding that the body of a second victim was pulled from under the rubble.

The Ukrainian Energy Ministry said grain terminals and port infrastructure in the ports of Odesa and Chornomorsk were targeted. In Chornomorsk, 60,000 tons of grain were destroyed, the ministry said.

Ukraine's air defense said in an update on July 20 that during the attack, Russia fired 19 cruise missiles and 19 kamikaze drones. It said it shot down 13 Iranian-made drones, two Kalibr cruise missiles, and three Iskander-K missiles.

IN PHOTOS: Moscow targeted the Black Sea port cities of Odesa and Mykolayiv on July 20. It was the third consecutive round of air strikes that targeted Odesa.

Russia's Defense Ministry has said strikes on Odesa and Mykolayiv were retaliation against facilities where it claimed Ukraine was building seaborne drones of the type that Moscow says damaged a bridge in the annexed region of Crimea.



But Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy said on his Telegram channel late on July 19 the Russian strikes had "deliberately" targeted sites in the Odesa region that are used to export grain after Russia refused to extend the grain deal.

"About 1 million tons of food is stored in the ports that were attacked today. Exactly the volume that should have been delivered to consumer countries in Africa and Asia a long time ago," Zelenskiy said in a video message. "Everyone in the world should be interested in holding Russia accountable for terror," he added.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres slammed the attacks near the Black Sea port cities.



"These attacks are...having an impact well beyond Ukraine. We are already seeing the negative effect on global wheat and corn prices which hurts everyone, but especially vulnerable people in the global south," Guterres said in a statement from his spokesman, Stephane Dujarric.

After Ukraine said it would continue to export grain despite Moscow's pullout from the deal, Russia announced that starting from July 20, it would consider international waters in northwestern and southeastern parts of the Black Sea "temporarily dangerous" for shipping and warned that it will consider any incoming vessel as a legitimate target.

The Russian statement prompted the White House to issue a warning that Moscow is preparing for possible attacks on civilian cargo ships in the Black Sea.

"Our information indicates that Russia laid additional sea mines in the approaches to Ukrainian ports," White House National Security Council spokesman Adam Hodge said in a statement.

"We believe that this is a coordinated effort to justify any attacks against civilian ships in the Black Sea and lay blame on Ukraine for these attacks."

The Russian ambassador to the U.S. was quoted by RIA Novosti as saying that Moscow was not preparing to attack civilian ships on the Black Sea.

The Black Sea escalation comes as Kyiv reports a new attempt by Russia to return to the offensive in the northeast. Two people were wounded in an afternoon attack on July 20 on a village in the Kharkiv region.

At the same time the United States said U.S.-supplied cluster munitions are being deployed in the field. White House National Security Council spokesman John Kirby said the munitions are having an impact on Russian defensive formations and maneuvering.

"We have gotten some initial feedback from the Ukrainians, and they're using them quite effectively," Kirby said at a news briefing.

Also on July 20, Valeriy Zaluzhniy, commander in chief of the Ukrainian forces, had a phone call about the operational situation along the entire front line with U.S. General Mark Milley, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff.

"The armed forces of Ukraine, despite the enemy's extremely complex minefields, anti-tank barricades, and a fire damage system, are methodically destroying the enemy's forces and continue to conduct offensive actions to de-occupy our territory. We are successful in several areas. Our soldiers are heroes," Zaluzhniy said on Facebook.

With reporting by AP and Reuters
We can readily understand why investors are attracted to unprofitable companies. For example, biotech and mining exploration companies often lose money for years before finding success with a new treatment or mineral discovery. But while history lauds those rare successes, those that fail are often forgotten; who remembers Pets.com?

So should Nighthawk Gold (TSE:NHK) shareholders be worried about its cash burn? For the purposes of this article, cash burn is the annual rate at which an unprofitable company spends cash to fund its growth; its negative free cash flow. We'll start by comparing its cash burn with its cash reserves in order to calculate its cash runway.

Check out our latest analysis for Nighthawk Gold

When Might Nighthawk Gold Run Out Of Money?

A cash runway is defined as the length of time it would take a company to run out of money if it kept spending at its current rate of cash burn. As at March 2023, Nighthawk Gold had cash of CA$13m and no debt. Importantly, its cash burn was CA$27m over the trailing twelve months. Therefore, from March 2023 it had roughly 6 months of cash runway. That's quite a short cash runway, indicating the company must either reduce its annual cash burn or replenish its cash. Depicted below, you can see how its cash holdings have changed over time.

How Is Nighthawk Gold's Cash Burn Changing Over Time?

Nighthawk Gold didn't record any revenue over the last year, indicating that it's an early stage company still developing its business. So while we can't look to sales to understand growth, we can look at how the cash burn is changing to understand how expenditure is trending over time. Given the length of the cash runway, we'd interpret the 22% reduction in cash burn, in twelve months, as prudent if not necessary for capital preservation. Clearly, however, the crucial factor is whether the company will grow its business going forward. For that reason, it makes a lot of sense to take a look at our analyst forecasts for the company.

Can Nighthawk Gold Raise More Cash Easily?

While Nighthawk Gold is showing a solid reduction in its cash burn, it's still worth considering how easily it could raise more cash, even just to fuel faster growth. Issuing new shares, or taking on debt, are the most common ways for a listed company to raise more money for its business. Commonly, a business will sell new shares in itself to raise cash and drive growth. We can compare a company's cash burn to its market capitalisation to get a sense for how many new shares a company would have to issue to fund one year's operations.

Since it has a market capitalisation of CA$67m, Nighthawk Gold's CA$27m in cash burn equates to about 40% of its market value. That's fairly notable cash burn, so if the company had to sell shares to cover the cost of another year's operations, shareholders would suffer some costly dilution.

So, Should We Worry About Nighthawk Gold's Cash Burn?

On this analysis of Nighthawk Gold's cash burn, we think its cash burn reduction was reassuring, while its cash runway has us a bit worried. After looking at that range of measures, we think shareholders should be extremely attentive to how the company is using its cash, as the cash burn makes us uncomfortable. Separately, we looked at different risks affecting the company and spotted 5 warning signs for Nighthawk Gold (of which 3 shouldn't be ignored!) you should know about.

If you would prefer to check out another company with better fundamentals, then do not miss this free list of interesting companies, that have HIGH return on equity and low debt or this list of stocks which are all forecast to grow.

Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com.



This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned.

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These days it's easy to simply buy an index fund, and your returns should (roughly) match the market. But you can significantly boost your returns by picking above-average stocks. To wit, the Oceana Group Limited (JSE:OCE) share price is 48% higher than it was a year ago, much better than the market return of around 2.1% (not including dividends) in the same period. So that should have shareholders smiling. On the other hand, longer term shareholders have had a tougher run, with the stock falling 3.8% in three years.

So let's assess the underlying fundamentals over the last 1 year and see if they've moved in lock-step with shareholder returns.

View our latest analysis for Oceana Group

To paraphrase Benjamin Graham: Over the short term the market is a voting machine, but over the long term it's a weighing machine. One way to examine how market sentiment has changed over time is to look at the interaction between a company's share price and its earnings per share (EPS).

During the last year Oceana Group grew its earnings per share (EPS) by 110%. It's fair to say that the share price gain of 48% did not keep pace with the EPS growth. So it seems like the market has cooled on Oceana Group, despite the growth. Interesting. This cautious sentiment is reflected in its (fairly low) P/E ratio of 8.76.

The company's earnings per share (over time) is depicted in the image below (click to see the exact numbers).

We're pleased to report that the CEO is remunerated more modestly than most CEOs at similarly capitalized companies. But while CEO remuneration is always worth checking, the really important question is whether the company can grow earnings going forward. Dive deeper into the earnings by checking this interactive graph of Oceana Group'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, Oceana Group's TSR for the last 1 year was 58%, which exceeds the share price return mentioned earlier. This is largely a result of its dividend payments!

A Different Perspective

It's nice to see that Oceana Group shareholders have received a total shareholder return of 58% over the last year. That's including the dividend. That's better than the annualised return of 3% over half a decade, implying that the company is doing better recently. Given the share price momentum remains strong, it might be worth taking a closer look at the stock, lest you miss an opportunity. 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. Like risks, for instance. Every company has them, and we've spotted 2 warning signs for Oceana Group (of which 1 is potentially serious!) you should know about.

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 South African exchanges.

Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com.



This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned.

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Luann comic strip cartoonist Greg Evans of San Marcos has written several musicals inspired by the characters in Luann and other family relationships. On Jan. 25, Evans will premiere his latest musical, Quibbling Siblings at Patio Playhouse in Escondido.

Not long after Greg Evans launched his long-running comic strip Luann in 1985, he featured a brief storyline featuring fractious teen characters Luann and Brad DeGroot competing on an imaginary game show called Quibbling Siblings.

These days, the now-grown cartoon siblings get along just fine. But longtime fans of the strip can relive the pairs more contentious years this week at Patio Playhouse in Escondido, which is producing the world premiere of Evans new musical Quibbling Siblings. It opens Friday and will run in alternating repertory through Feb. 17 with Evans 2014 musical A Boy and a Girl.

Quibbling Siblings is the fourth musical penned by the 71-year-old San Marcos author/artist since he premiered Luann: Scenes from a Teens Life in the mid-1980s. He also wrote a musical for the senior set called Wrinkles in 2010. Still percolating in his head is an all-female show about meeting Mr. Right.

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All of Evans musicals and his comic strip focus on the same central theme: the dynamic of human relationships.

Ive always been interested in male-female relationships. Theyre so fascinating to me, he said. I find females particularly interesting  that combination of the simplistic male and the complex female.

While the new musical Quibbling Siblings is inspired by the the preteen wars waged between Luann and Brad in Luann, Evans joked that hes drawn additional inspiration for the musical in recent years from his sometimes contentious grandchildren.

Luann comic strip cartoonist Greg Evans, center, on the set of his musical Quibbling Siblings with Patio Playhouses artistic manager Matt FitzGerald and publicity chair Samantha Goldstein. (Don Boomer / San Diego Union-Tribune)

Evans was inspired to create his Luann strip from his own daughter, Karen Evans, who now collaborates with him three days a week on the strips ever-evolving plot. When the strip started, Luann was 13. Now shes in college and her older brother, Brad, is married.

Evans said he always dreamed of being a cartoonist, but couldnt find a buyer for his hand-drawn strips in his 20s and early 30s, so he bounced around in a series of jobs  high school art teacher in El Centro, TV news camera operator in Colorado Springs and talking-robot operator at the San Diego Zoo and Seaport Village.

Then, one day in 1984, he saw 5-year-old Karen, the youngest of his three children with his wife, Betty, walking around their Twin Oaks Valley home dressed in her moms clothing and jewelry.

I saw her and I got the idea for a strip about a little girl, and for once it struck a chord because it wasnt a contrived subject. It was drawn from real life, Evans said.

The syndicated strip now runs in more than 400 newspapers and its online readership, at luanncomic.com, attracts more than 100,000 pageviews a day. In 2003, Evans won the National Cartoonists Societys prestigious Reuben Award.

The idea of creating musicals came from his shared passion for writing music and songs and a desire to see his characters come to life in front of an audience.

I love to entertain people with the comic strip, but I never get to see readers reactions, he said. My job is really solitary, so being able to sit in a theater and see and hear people reacting to my work is amazing.

Quibbling Siblings is directed by Amanda Frawley, who has been helping Evans develop and hone the script over the past two years. About 18 months ago, she brought the script to Patio Playhouse for a reading, where Artistic Manager Matt FitzGerald suggested producing the show this season in a repertory production.

Set in a television studio with a 20-song score, Quibbling Siblings is a colorful family-friendly musical comedy with 14 actors. A Boy and a Girl, directed by Patrick OConnor, is a musical comedy-drama for a cast of eight. Its the story of a couple on their wedding day reflecting on the ups and downs of their lifelong relationship.

FitzGerald describes Quibbling Siblings as the standard cute musical that people like to see.

My personal taste is for work thats more challenging but you have to give audiences candy sometimes for balance. These are candy, FitzGerald said. People will come and enjoy one of them and then hopefully come back to see the other.

As part of the Evans repertory program, Patio Playhouse will be raising donations for the San Diego fire Rescue Foundation. For each show Patio produces, publicity chair Samantha Goldstein finds a charity beneficiary that fits the theme of the show.

Goldstein brought Evans the idea of supporting the fire charity and he agreed it would be a great fit. After the 9/11 attacks in 2001, Evans decided to make Brad a firefighter, and in 2016, Brad married fellow firefighter Toni Daytona.

The Fire Rescue Foundation raises money for firefighting equipment that fire departments cant afford. Goldstein said donations will be collected during intermission and after each performance at a staffed information table in the lobby.

Evans said that he trusts Frawley and the team at Patio so much with his script and score that he has taken a hands-off approach. He hasnt attended any rehearsals and doesnt plan to see Quibbling Siblings until opening night.

Im sure it will be awesome, Evans said. Its always fun to see these characters take human form.

Quibbling Siblings & A Boy and a Girl

When: Opens Friday, Jan. 25, and runs in rotating repertory through Feb. 17. Showtimes, 8 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays. 2 p.m. Sundays.

Where: Patio Playhouse, 116 S. Kalmia St., Escondido

Tickets: $20, adults. $17, seniors, military, students. $12 for youth 16 and under.

Phone: (760) 746-6669

Online: patioplayhouse.com

pam.kragen@sduniontribune.com
Former Vice President Mike Pence called former Arizona Gov. Doug Ducey following the 2020 election, but there was no pressure involved, he said in an interview airing Sunday.

Pence's comments followed a report in the Washington Post that former President Donald Trump pushed Pence to make a call to Ducey to urge him to find evidence that would help Trump overturn the states presidential results.

I did check in, with not only Governor Ducey, but other governors in states that were going through the legal process of reviewing their election results, but there was no pressure involved, Pence said during an interview on CBSs Face the Nation."

After so much uncertainty about the election outcome in places like Arizona, in places like Georgia, states around the country, were going through the legal process of engaging in a  review under state law, Pence said. I got updates on that, passed that along, and it was no more, no less than that.

According to the Posts report, Trump also called Ducey, prodding the Republican governor to find enough fraudulent votes to help overturn his narrow loss to Joe Biden in the state.

Since Duceys refusal to overturn the states election results in 2020, he has been a political punching bag for Trump, who has called him a RINO  Republican in Name Only  and one of the worst Governors in America. But Ducey, who has since left office after reaching his term limit, has stood by his decision, saying he was loyal to the Constitution and the law.

Trump is under federal investigation over efforts he and allies may have taken to attempt to overturn the 2020 election results. He is also facing a state investigation in Georgia on similar allegations; in a recording of a call to Georgia Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger, Trump can be heard asking Raffensperger to find more votes.
Researchers from the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus have identified a potential new immune checkpoint receptor that could lead to treatments for diseases such as lung and bowel cancer and autoimmune conditions including IBD.

The study, published today in Science Immunology, examines a family of 13 receptors, or proteins that transmit signals for cells to follow, called killer cell immunoglobulin-like receptors (KIR). Of the 13 receptors, one is unique in that it has not readily been observed on immune cells of peripheral blood. Researchers identified that this mysterious receptor, called KIR3DL3, is found in the intestine and lungs, suggesting it could provide signals specifically required by immune cells that are resident in mucosal tissues.

"We're always searching for these cell surface receptors that can be such important targets for immunotherapies," says Billy Palmer, PhD, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus researcher and lead author. "This is one that is very specific to T cells in certain tissues. That's something that may be able to be leveraged medicinally, opening the door for potential new therapies."

Researchers were able to determine the tissue distribution of the elusive KIR3DL3 receptor by searching for a sequence of nucleotides specific to KIR3DL3 in public RNA sequencing databases. After developing a short list of probable tissues where KIR3DL3 could be expressed, they collaborated with lab groups in the United Kingdom that created a KIR3DL3-specific antibody, and colleagues from the University of Colorado School of Medicine who supplied the tissues. Using this antibody, the researchers confirmed KIR3DL3 protein expression was rare in peripheral blood and most common in the intestine.

To assess the functional attributes of KIR3DL3-expressing cells, the researchers used flow cytometry and single cell RNA sequencing. These approaches identified KIR3DL3 expression in a unique population of T cells with hallmarks suggestive of recent activation. In a series of functional experiments, they found that when KIR3DL3 is activated by its binding partner, HHLA2, it transmits a signal that can inhibit immune responses.

"KIR3DL3 marks a unique cell population, and assessing its role is a very exciting discovery -- we now have a new tool at our disposal" says Paul Norman, PhD, professor in the CU Anschutz Department of Biomedical Informatics and a senior author of the study. "Whenever a unique cell population is discovered, we want to know how these cells affect disease. Can we further our understanding, and design new therapies or treatments with this knowledge? Our findings present the opportunity to see how best we can utilize this receptor; work that is ongoing in the lab."
Poly Network Attack Conjures Billions of Dollars in Tokens That 'Did Not Exist'

Poly Network was hacked over the weekend, falling victim to an attacker that used the interoperability platform to issue billions of tokens out of thin air.

The attacker found a vulnerability in Poly Networks cross-chain bridge tool that apparently allowed them to create massive amounts of tokens that did not exist before, said 3z3 Labs founder Arhat on Twitter.

Acknowledging that its platform had been attacked, Poly Network informed users on Sunday that its services had been suspended. Additionally, the platform said that it was assessing the scope of the attack and the assets impacted.

Please remain calm, Poly Network said. We are committed to safeguarding your assets.

Poly Network Suffers Record-Breaking $600.3 Million Hack

The hackers digital wallet held nearly $43 billion worth of cryptocurrency at one point after the hack, according to DeBank, the decentralized finance portfolio tracker. The figure was affirmed in a post shared PeckShield, the blockchain data and security firm.

Bridges are an important part of Web 3s ecosystem, allowing users to move assets from one network to another. Users who lock up tokens on one chain are issued an equal amount on another.

Bridges have historically been a lucrative target for hackers, however.

On the layer-2 network Metis, attackers issued themselves nearly 100 million of BNB and $10 billion of the Binance-branded stablecoin BUSD as part of the Poly Network attack, according to Chinese crypto journalist Colin Wu.

Nearly 100 trillion of Shiba Inu, the dog-themed meme coin, was issued on the network Heco. A significant amount of altcoins were also issued on Polygon and Avalanche.

Just In: PolyNetwork is suspected to be hacked again. Hackers issued additional huge assets on several chains: 99,999,184 BNB and 10 billion BUSD were issued on Metis, and 999.8127T SHIB was issued on Heco , 87,579,118 COW and 999,998,434 OOE, 636,643,868 STACK, 88,640,563 GM  Wu Blockchain (@WuBlockchain) July 2, 2023

Metis said that the BNB and BUSD tokens issued by hackers on its network are effectively useless because there is no sell liquidity available, preventing any gains from being realized. The tokens have been locked by Poly Network as well, Metis said.

3z3 Labs Arhat acknowledged that the overall Poly Network attack was somewhat stifled due to lackluster liquidity, which prevented any ill-gotten gains on Metis, but not on other networks like Ethereum, where stolen tokens were swapped on decentralized exchanges.

Despite the magnitude of this hack, the hacker was only able to convert a small portion of these tokens, he said, estimating the attacker walked away with $400,000 worth of crypto. Everything else had no liquidity and were essentially worthless.

The blockchain security firm SlowMist said the attackers total gains were higher. Over $4 million worth of digital assets from the hack has been cashed in, the firm said. This includes over 1,500 Ethereum worth $3 million and 93 billion SHIB worth $700,000.

MistTrack Security Alert@PolyNetwork2 has been hacked again. 1/ The main hacker profit address is 0xe0afa599. The Hacker has cashed in over $4.39 million in mainstream assets. pic.twitter.com/SYPFI4n9kF  MistTrack (@MistTrack_io) July 2, 2023

Though Poly Networks name is less well known, the platform made headlines in 2021 after a historic attack, the largest exploit in decentralized finance at the time. Even now, plugging Poly Network into a Google search returns the infamous attacks date.

Poly Network lost $600 million in the attack, which saw funds across on Ethereum, Binance Smart Chain, and Polygon siphoned away. Poly Network moved to repay users who lost funds after the hacker returned $342 million worth of stolen crypto.

According to messages included in Ethereum transactions, the attacker from 2021 said the heist was simply for fun and that returning the stolen crypto was always the plan. They eventually returned nearly all of the stolen funds.

While this weekends hack of Poly Network pales in comparison to the projects previous $600 million lesson, the event undoubtedly raises questions about the platforms security moving forwardand whether any stolen crypto will come back to the platform and its users this time.
States are passing right-to-repair laws that could save you money when it comes time to fix consumer goods like smartphones, and TVs and even farm equipment.

If youve ever replaced your smartphone because the screen was cracked or put a relatively new flat-screen TV out for trash pickup, you know how difficult it is to get consumer products repaired.

Thats changing. Legislation enacted or introduced in more than two dozen states requires manufacturers of everything from smartphones to farm equipment to make it easier for consumers to take damaged products to an independent repair shop  or fix the products themselves. Some state bills would provide right to repair protections for all consumer products, while others are limited to smartphones and laptops.

Aaron Perzanowski, a law professor at the University of Michigan and author of The Right to Repair: Reclaiming the Things We Own, says many of the products we buy are inextricably tied to the manufacturer, leading to what he calls the tethered economy. Forcing consumers to go back to the manufacturer to get their products repaired means were not free of that relationship once we make a purchase and bring it home, he says.

Opponents of right-to-repair legislation say it would jeopardize consumers safety and force manufacturers to share proprietary information. Most consumer-technology products are composed of complex electronics, which require specialized training and sophisticated test instruments to repair safely, Dusty Brighton, representing the industry-funded Repair Done Right Coalition, said in testimony at a Minnesota House Judiciary Committee hearing in February.

Despite those concerns, several states have moved forward with right-to-repair bills. In May, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz signed legislation that requires manufacturers of smartphones, laptops, appliances and other equipment to provide independent shops and consumers with the tools and instructions needed to fix their products. New York Gov. Kathy Hochul signed similar legislation in December. In April, Colorado Gov. Jared Polis signed a bill that requires manufacturers to give farmers the tools, manuals and software they need to fix their tractors. Farmers who supported the bill said they were frequently forced to wait days for a manufacturers representative to repair their equipment, which hurt their profits.

California lawmakers are considering legislation that would require manufacturers of appliances and consumer electronics to make their repair manuals publicly available, sell parts to consumers, and provide consumers with the ability to open digital locks that prevent them from fixing their products. The legislation is significant because California is the nations most populous state and home to many large technology manufacturers.

Right-to-repair advocates say the cost of replacing damaged products costs consumers billions of dollars a year. A survey by U.S. PIRG, a consumer advocacy group, found that the average household spent $1,767 to buy electronic products in 2021, up 19% since 2019.

The right-to-repair movement is popular because its common sense, says Nathan Proctor, a senior director for U.S. PIRG. People want to be able to fix stuff, and theyre sick of the excuses they get from manufacturers about why they cant.

Note: This item first appeared in Kiplinger's Personal Finance Magazine, a monthly, trustworthy source of advice and guidance. Subscribe to help you make more money and keep more of the money you make here.
Politics

spotlight

Homelessness

Shelter, housing and how SF leaders view UCSF homelessness study

Craig Lee/The Examiner Homeless tent encampment on Van Ness Avenue near Golden Gate Avenue in San Francisco on Thursday, May 18, 2023.

A sweeping study published by San Francisco researchers last week analyzed the primary causes of homelessness in California and made a series of recommendations for solving the states most vexing problem.

But its unlikely to end the ceaseless debates in San Francisco over how The City should address its enduring struggles to rein in homelessness, treat people with mental health disorders, or combat addiction.

Led by Dr. Margot Kushel at the UCSF Benioff Homelessness and Housing Initiative, the study collected information from thousands of people experiencing homelessness across eight representative regions in California, including the Bay Area.

San Francisco Supervisor Rafael Mandelman, who has taken a leading role in The Citys evolving homelessness policy, called the UCSF study a political document tailored to meet its authors preconceived notions.

I think it has to be accepted for what it is, which is a lot of interviews with unhoused people across the state, Mandelman told The Examiner. Its not focusing on San Francisco; its a statewide survey of info by unhoused people about their own circumstances and how they got where they are and what theyve experienced.

Kushel, in an email to The Examiner, stressed that the study intended not only learn about the causes and conditions of homelessness but assess the barriers to ending it.

Like all studies, we have to state our aims up front, Kushel said.

The study surveyed 3,200 participants, including 325 who were interviewed in-depth. The majority were unsheltered  meaning they sleep outside  as are most homeless people in California.

Because one of our goals at the outset was to look at solutions to homelessness (people in shelters are homeless, so by definition, being in a shelter doesnt solve homelessness), we spent effort on understanding barriers to housing, Kushel said.

The study found that despite rumblings that California is a de facto destination for the nations homeless, most are from this state. A primary reason for this is the states high cost of housing, which makes it likely that a person will become homeless  and will struggle to regain housing once unhoused.

The study expressly advocated for policies to reduce obstacles to housing and touched on themes deeply familiar to San Franciscans.

San Francisco has long found itself embroiled in a debate over whether or not it should pour resources into affordable and permanent housing  a policy endorsed by the UCSF study  or fund the expansion of temporary emergency shelter.

A central question with which city leaders wrestle is whether San Francisco should make itself a model for state and national policies for which it advocates  namely, by investing in housing. Or should The City acknowledge its limits and aim to quickly and efficiently mitigate unsheltered homelessness by expanding shelter?

Those questions played out in a recent budget committee meeting as Mandelman and Supervisor Hillary Ronen debated the best path forward.

Ronen decried the negative attention San Francisco receives but said in the committee meeting that the problems are not unique to San Francisco.

What we are dealing with  is the emergency of poverty, and we dont call it poverty, but thats at the root cause of all of the issues, Ronen said.

Ronen acknowledged The City could do things better, but said its a balancing act.

How do you address the root causes so that were not dealing with this problem forever, versus how much do you address the symptoms ... of poverty so that its not life and death situation for people today, Ronen said. The root of these problems are not with the way that we govern in San Francisco.

She pointed to Mayor London Breeds recent proposal to pull funding earmarked for young adult and family housing to fund the expansion of temporary shelter.

Do you take money from youth and family homelessness to deal with the more visible adult homelessness in the street, or do you end family and youth homelessness so that they dont become the adult homeless tomorrow? Ronen asked.

The City, she said, never commits to a strategy.

Mandelman said Ronen isnt wrong but that he and Ronen are trying to address different problems.

Mandelman argues that while the studys proposed solutions to homelessness might work on the state level, they arent necessarily a prescription for San Francisco.

Instead, Mandelman argues that The City should implore the state and federal government to tackle systemic issues, while it invests in solutions that address our San Francisco problems in particular, such as the proliferation of encampments.

The City spends a significant portion of its budget  which totaled $14 billion last year  on a broad array of homeless services. San Franciscos Department of Homelessness and Supportive Housing had a $672 million budget last year, and Mayor London Breeds proposed budget this year called for the department to receive $690 million. A bit more than half funds permanent housing efforts, while slightly less than a quarter is earmarked for shelter and crisis intervention.

If youre Hillary Ronen, you advocate to model at local level to try to pressure them into following along, Mandelman said. He said his preference is to do some of that in San Francisco, but work more directly to address locally the most problematic manifestations of inadequate state and federal policy.

Maybe that looks like an increased police presence, and breaking up drug rings, and displacing open air drug markets, Mandelman said.

Mandelman believes The City should rapidly expand the amount of temporary, emergency shelter it offers to the homeless, breaking up open-air drug markets, and more readily compelling people into mental health treatment.

An expansion of shelter would theoretically allow The City to begin enforcing sweeps against homeless encampments. The City is currently barred from carrying out sweeps, in part because of the massive deficit of shelter beds it has compared to its homeless population.

And while the study implores the government to facilitate swift exits from homelessness and notes that many respondents struggle to find shelter, Mandelman highlighted how it does not expressly advocate for shelter as a solution.

The study states that 90% of its respondents reported spending at least one night unsheltered in the last six months, and 41% said they had attempted to access a shelter but were unable to do so.

Kushel said she does not deny the importance of shelter and hopes her work can guide how shelter should be implemented. The study found that most people in shelters were generally pleased with their experience, but those unsheltered had wide-ranging concerns like curfews, requirements to vacate during the day, and COVID-related health risks.

And basically all, whether in shelter or not in shelter, wanted housing, Kushel said.

People in shelters were more likely to receive help in obtaining housing, while unsheltered people were more likely to view such services as ineffective.

Still, we found (as have others) near unanimous desire for permanent housing, Kushel said. Our findings suggest the significant challenges that California faces, with its extreme shortage of housing for extremely low-income households, to end this crisis, and suggest concrete steps that could get us to the goal we all share, of ending homelessness.

But that might be too big a task for San Francisco to tackle on its own, Mandelman argues.

The City is embarking on a state-mandated plan to make housing more readily available by building more than 80,000 new homes by 2031. Its new five-year strategic plan on homelessness calls for the addition of 3,250 new units of permanent supportive housing.

But as of the most recent homeless count in 2022, more than 4,000 people were living on the street. Investments in expanding permanent supportive housing have been successful, Mandelman acknowledges, and we are improving peoples lives.

By that measure, it is working, Mandelman said. By the measure of, are San Franciscans feeling the benefit of their buck? Absolutely not.
For many, the main point of investing is to generate higher returns than the overall market. But every investor is virtually certain to have both over-performing and under-performing stocks. So we wouldn't blame long term Genting Malaysia Berhad (KLSE:GENM) shareholders for doubting their decision to hold, with the stock down 49% over a half decade.

It's worthwhile assessing if the company's economics have been moving in lockstep with these underwhelming shareholder returns, or if there is some disparity between the two. So let's do just that.

View our latest analysis for Genting Malaysia Berhad

There is no denying that markets are sometimes efficient, but prices do not always reflect underlying business performance. One way to examine how market sentiment has changed over time is to look at the interaction between a company's share price and its earnings per share (EPS).

We know that Genting Malaysia Berhad has been profitable in the past. On the other hand, it reported a trailing twelve months loss, suggesting it isn't reliably profitable. Other metrics might give us a better handle on how its value is changing over time.

We note that the dividend has fallen in the last five years, so that may have contributed to the share price decline. On top of that, revenue has declined by 12% per year over the half decade; that could be a red flag for some investors.

You can see below how earnings and revenue have changed over time (discover the exact values by clicking on the image).

Genting Malaysia Berhad is well known by investors, and plenty of clever analysts have tried to predict the future profit levels. So we recommend checking out this free report showing consensus forecasts

What About Dividends?

When looking at investment returns, it is important to consider the difference between total shareholder return (TSR) and share price return. Whereas the share price return only reflects the change in the share price, the TSR includes the value of dividends (assuming they were reinvested) and the benefit of any discounted capital raising or spin-off. It's fair to say that the TSR gives a more complete picture for stocks that pay a dividend. We note that for Genting Malaysia Berhad the TSR over the last 5 years was -33%, which is better than the share price return mentioned above. The dividends paid by the company have thusly boosted the total shareholder return.

A Different Perspective

Genting Malaysia Berhad shareholders are down 8.8% for the year (even including dividends), but the market itself is up 2.6%. However, keep in mind that even the best stocks will sometimes underperform the market over a twelve month period. Unfortunately, last year's performance may indicate unresolved challenges, given that it was worse than the annualised loss of 6% over the last half decade. We realise that Baron Rothschild has said investors should "buy when there is blood on the streets", but we caution that investors should first be sure they are buying a high quality business. I find it very interesting to look at share price over the long term as a proxy for business performance. But to truly gain insight, we need to consider other information, too. For instance, we've identified 2 warning signs for Genting Malaysia Berhad (1 is concerning) 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.

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STATEN ISLAND, N.Y.  Staten Island desperately needs more specially-trained drug-recognition police officers so drivers who get behind the wheel while high can be prosecuted, the boroughs top law-enforcement official warned.

The Island has just one drug recognition expert (DRE) to serve a half a million residents  the same number assigned here at the time of the legalization of marijuana statewide in 2021, District Attorney Michael E. McMahon said.

DREs are police officers who have received specialized training approved by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHSTA) and the International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP), and are considered experts in the field of drug recognition.

They provide expert witness testimony at trials against alleged drugged drivers to ensure that the cases move forward and they are required for the successful prosecution and conviction of defendants, McMahon said.

A bud tender holds up a flower of cannabis at a dispensary in Portland, Oregon. (Staten Island Advance/Amanda Steen)Staff-Shot

These experts are trained and it is ultimately their observations and their testimony that will be the proof of a drug impairment of the person driving the car, said a spokesman for McMahons office. Its based on their training that they can say Hey, this person is impaired on this type of drug.

In 2021, the Staten Island Advance/SILive.com reported that initially $36 million was earmarked for the training through the states newly formed Office of Cannabis Management, however, an additional $10 million was added following advocacy from Assemblyman Michael Reilly (R-South Shore) for DREs, totaling $46 million.

The Advance/SILive.com reported in 2018 that there were 15 DREs citywide and only one on Staten Island. More than five years later, the NYPD said there are four more DREs citywide (19).

We are very concerned with driving-while-drugged cases, specifically with cases involving marijuana, because there is no on-site test for driving under the influence of marijuana; we have to utilize the observations from DREs, McMahon said to the Advance/SILive.com.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, there was a decrease in arrests and instances of drugged driving.

As COVID relented, weve seen the numbers come back up, said McMahon. Weve seen some increases.

HOW MANY DREs SHOULD THERE BE?

Although, there is no official way to determine what areas get more or less DREs in New York State, if it were determined strictly by population, Staten Island would need nearly 10 additional DRE officers.

In New York, the state population is 20,201,249, according to the 2020 census. According to data from New York States Governors Traffic Safety Committee, there are 447 trained experts in the state. Based on the total population and the number of officers already employed, there should be approximately one DRE officer for every 45,000 residents.

The population of Staten Island is about 495,000, so that equates to approximately 11 DRE officers for the borough.

Based on the population of 8.468 million people, approximately 188 DREs should be in New York City instead of the current total of 19 specially trained DRE officers.

Currently the number of DREs per capita in New York City is one per 445,684 people.

This has been a prevalent plea on our part to get more DREs on Staten Island, McMahon said. Theres a lot of drugged driving going on and it has made our lives difficult  more challenging. We need more experts to help us with that.

In research conducted by the U.S. Department of Transportations National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) in 2018, 46% of drivers who were killed in crashes and were tested for drugs tested positive.

The Institute for Traffic Safety Management & Research said in a recent survey of active DREs that the number of DRE evaluations conducted decreased 7% from 2019 to 2020, followed by a 7% increase to 2,746 in 2021 coinciding with statewide cannabis legalization. Thirty-eight percent of the DRE evaluations were associated with an arrest from 6 p.m. to midnight. Cannabis and narcotic analgesics were both the most common drug category identified by the DREs at 41%.

According to the Governors Traffic Safety Committee, they have plans to increase the number of trained DRE officers statewide to 550 by the end of 2023. It is unclear if Staten Island is slated to receive additional officers.



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Hendrik Meijer was an adventurer.

He came to America in 1907, at the age of 23. That year, the United States admitted 7,000 immigrants from the Netherlands. At least half of them headed for Michigan, and many landed in Holland. Among them were Hendrik, his father, Fredrik, and his sister, Anna.

They crossed the Atlantic aboard a Holland-America ship, the S.S. Nieuw Amsterdam. It danced on the water like a feather wrote Hendrik, making everyone sick. Fortunately, after a week at sea, they spotted the American coast. After disembarking at the Hoboken dock, Hendrik, his father, and his sister passed through customs.

Avoiding the hawkers, they boarded a streetcar for Grand Central Station, where they boarded a train for Buffalo. The train ride lasted through the night. The next morning, they took a ferry to Detroit, then boarded another train for Grand Rapids, then another to Holland.

Holland Hotel

In Holland, they spent their first night at the Holland Hotel, but they couldn't afford it. The next morning, without breakfast, they found a place to stay in a friends rented apartment on W. Tenth Street.

Hendriks first job was at Heinz, wheeling barrels of pickles. He disliked the work, and thought the pay was too little. Then he found a job at a furniture company, then another. Then he worked in a foundry, but the Panic of 1907 almost ended that.

Factories laid off many workers, but Hendrik and his father kept their jobs, as did Hendriks sister, Anna, who worked as a maid. Hendrik believed he knew why the Panic occurred: The capitalists are saying they have overproduction, but we know better. ... The trustmen like the Rockefellers, the VanderBilts, and the Pierpont Morgans are at fault. They take all the money out of the banks, the banks panic, and then the people hear about it and take whatever little money theyve got because they get scared  so that leaves no money to go around."

Instead of bosses or church acquaintances, Hendrik preferred the company of the men at the foundry, who were, he believed, rowdy and tolerant. He also attended a society for socialism. Usually, each meeting drew a dozen young men and began with a singing of La Marseillaise, the anthem of the French Revolution.

Steve VanderVeen

Seeking higher pay, Hendrik applied at Holland Furnace Company. The company instead gave the job to an American he knew from his socialist group. Then, a few days later, the American told him there was another open foundry job.

While working at Holland Furnace Company, Hendrik joined a group called the Modern Sons of Marx, which met on Sunday afternoons. He also walked in a march for presidential candidate William Jennings Bryan.

In 1908, Hendrik took a trip to Chicago. In 1909, after getting into an argument with his foreman at Holland Furnace, he quit his job and headed for the place Carl Sandberg would call The City of Big Shoulders. In Chicago, he found, in a newspaper ad, a company that was looking for colored wagon washers.

When he went to apply, he learned that colored was not referring to the wagons. He also applied for a trolley conductors job, but didn't get it. Next, he applied for a job at another foundry. But because he didnt have a union card, he was locked out  unless he agreed to start as an apprentice molder. He did. That lasted a year.

In 1910, Hendrik left for the Netherlands to visit his girlfriend. On his return to America, he stopped in New Jersey, where he got a job working for a pipe-fitter. Later, he returned to Holland, where, on the street, he ran into the president of Holland Furnace Company. Two days later, he was back at the foundry.

But wanderlust set in again, and Hendrik left for Washington. He landed in Yakima, where again he got a job at a foundry. But he was much too adventurous to be a foundryman forever.

 Community Columnist Steve VanderVeen is a resident of Holland. Contact him through start-upacademeinc.com.

This article originally appeared on The Holland Sentinel: Holland History: Hendrick Meijer had a case of wanderlust
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y.  If youre looking to plan ahead, New York City has released the public school calendar for the 2024-2025 school year.

The city Department of Educations (DOE) academic calendar includes some two-dozen days off between the first day of school on Thursday, Sept. 4, 2024, and the last day of classes on Friday, June 26, 2025.

The calendar gives time off for religious holidays like Good Friday, Yom Kippur and Eid al-Fitr, and week-long breaks for winter recess, mid-winter recess and spring recess, which include Christmas and Passover. Diwali has also been added as a public school holiday.

The school calendar also allows time off for Italian Heritage Day/Indigenous Peoples Day (Columbus Day), Election Day, Thanksgiving, Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Memorial Day and Juneteenth.

Dates for parent-teacher conference days for elementary, middle schools and high schools are also posted in the calendar.

Here are key dates you need to know for the 2025-2026 school year:

SEPTEMBER 2025

Sept. 4 - First day of school

Sept. 11 - Evening Parent-Teacher Conferences for elementary schools and Pre-K Centers

Sept. 18 - Evening Parent-Teacher Conferences for middle schools and D75 schools

Sept. 23-24 - Schools closed for Rosh Hashanah

Sept. 25 - Evening Parent-Teacher Conferences for high schools, K12, and 612 schools

OCTOBER 2025

Oct. 2 - Schools closed for Yom Kippur

Oct. 13 - Schools closed for Italian Heritage/Indigenous Peoples Day

Oct. 20 - Schools closed for Diwali

NOVEMBER 2025

Nov. 4 - Schools closed for Election Day

Nov. 6 - Afternoon and Evening Parent-Teacher Conferences for elementary schools; students in these schools dismissed three hours early

Nov. 11 - Schools closed for Veterans Day

Nov. 13 - Afternoon and Evening Parent-Teacher Conferences for middle schools and D75 schools; students in these schools dismissed three hours early

Nov. 20 - Evening Parent-Teacher Conferences for high schools, K12, and 612 schools

Nov. 21 - Afternoon and Evening Parent-Teacher Conferences for high schools, K12, and 612 schools; students in these schools dismissed three hours early

Nov. 27-28 - Schools closed for Thanksgiving recess

DECEMBER 2025

Dec. 24 - Winter recess begins

JANUARY 2026

Jan. 2 - Classes resume after winter recess

Jan. 19 - Schools closed for Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day

January dates to be determined - Regents exams are administered

January dates to be determined - Professional Development Day; no classes for students attending high schools and 6-12 schools, all other students attend school

FEBRUARY 2026

Feb. 16-20 - Schools closed for mid-winter recess

MARCH 2025

March 5 - Afternoon and Evening Parent-Teacher Conferences for elementary schools and Pre-K Centers; students in these schools dismissed three hours early

March 12 - Afternoon and Evening Parent-Teacher Conferences for middle schools and D75 schools; students in these schools dismissed three hours early

March 18 - Evening Parent-Teacher Conferences for high schools, K12, and 612 schools

March 19 - Afternoon Parent-Teacher Conferences for high schools, K12, and 612 schools; students in these schools dismissed three hours early

March 20 - Schools closed for Eid al-Fitr

APRIL 2026

April 2-10 - Schools closed for spring recess

MAY 2026

May 7 - Evening Parent-Teacher Conferences for elementary schools and Pre-K Centers

May 14 - Evening Parent-Teacher Conferences for middle schools and D75 schools

May 21 - Evening Parent-Teacher Conferences for high schools, K12, and 612 schools

May 25 - Schools closed for Memorial Day

May 27 - Schools closed for Eid al-Adha

JUNE 2026

June 4 - Schools closed for Anniversary Day/Chancellors Conference Day for staff development; students do not attend

June dates to be determined - Regents exam administration

June 19 - Schools closed for Juneteenth

June 26 - Last day of classes

School Zone: An education newsletter with the updates you need throughout the school year and beyond. Enter your email address here and hit "subscribe" to receive this weekly newsletter:



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STATEN ISLAND, N.Y.  New Yorkers will have their pick when it comes to watching fireworks this Fourth of July.

From Staten Island to Long Island, and all the way down to the Jersey Shore, here are the best places to view all the action.

This year, the Staten Island Borough President Vito J. Fossella is kicking off the Sounds of Summer Concert Series with a special Fourth of July celebration on Monday, July 3. The show featuring the band, Cause and The Effects, will be held at the Midland Beach Splaza from approximately from 7 to 9 p.m. Monday.

A fireworks display will follow.

OTHER FOURTH OF JULY EVENTS

This year, the Macys Fourth of July Fireworks show is celebrating its 47th year. The display will be launched along the East River in Manhattan at 9:45 p.m. Tuesday. According to Macys, the best locations to see the show are:

Manhattan: Along First Avenue at 20th Street, 34th Street and 42nd Street

Queens: Gantry Plaza State Park

Brooklyn: Newtown Barge Park, Transmitter Park or Marsha P. Johnson State Park

Viewers can tune to WINS 1010 AM to hear the musical score live. The show also will be available to watch on NBC and Peacock.

The Macys fireworks display is not visible from Staten Island, but there are opportunities to view fireworks in the outer boroughs.

STATEN ISLAND

Empire Outlets will celebrate Independence Day beginning at 3 p.m., Tuesday with its Fourth of July Block Party and Fireworks. The days events include face painting, live performances and Empire Outlets fourth annual Cannoli Eating Contest. Fireworks begin at around 9 p.m.

BROOKLYN

Coney Islands Fourth of July Fireworks will take place on Coney Islands boardwalk at approximately 9:30 p.m. The display will be an hour-long extravaganza.

On Staten Island, you can view them from:

Franklin Delano Roosevelt Boardwalk, South Beach

Gateway National Recreational Area, Fort Wadsworth

LONG ISLAND

The Jovia Financial Credit Union Fireworks Spectacular at Jones Beach will take place at 9:30 p.m. at the state park on Long Island. Admission is $10 per vehicle. WALK 97.5 FM and KJOY 98.3 FM will broadcast music during the show, which will last 25 minutes.

JERSEY SHORE

Down the Jersey Shore, Jenkinsons Boardwalk, 300 Ocean Ave., Point Pleasant Beach, N.J., will host a fireworks display at night. The Seaside Heights Boardwalk, 715 Boardwalk, Seaside Heights, N.J., will host a fireworks show at 9:30 p.m.

All of these events are weather permitting.



RELATED COVERAGE: Fourth of July on Staten Island

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>> Last Fourth of July, 3 Staten Islanders suffered grisly fireworks injuries; NYPD issues warning
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- Messiah Lutheran Church in Annadale celebrated the retirement of Pastor Garry Squire on Sunday June 25, 2023, his 40-year anniversary of his ordination.

Originally from New Jersey, Squire had found an opportunity to minister to the community at Messiah Lutheran Church, located at 205 Jefferson Blvd. Now, after 40 years of ministry, and 35 years at Messiah Lutheran, Squire is ready to move on to other spaces of service.

However, Squire didnt always want to become a pastor. When he was in fourth grade, his religion teacher told him about the life of ministry, and it didnt seem appealing at first. When I asked him how long it would take, he said he had to get out of this school and go to junior high, and high school and college. I thought maybe I should be a fireman instead, Squire said.

As the years went by, he developed a love for music and planned to become a music teacher after graduating William Paterson University in Wayne, N.J. However, he noticed that a career in music education wouldnt be stable enough at the time, and he started to get more involved with Grace Lutheran Church in New Jersey. Soon after, he felt a calling to ministry.

[A pastor] said, Its just so funny that youve never tried seminary, and that sparked my desire to be a minister -- to be a minister like he was in my eyes.

Inspired by the example set by his pastor, he decided to become involved in the church. He inspired me to be involved in the local church that youre called to. To not only be a part of, [but to have] a ministry beyond local church doors, he said.

He first went to St. Pauls Lutheran Church in Richmond Hill, Queens, where he was then recommended by a bishop to Messiah Lutheran Church in Staten Island.

Ive just had a rich opportunity to work with people here, Squire said. He worked with the nursery school in the 1990s, the Feeding Ministry at Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church, and actively worked with the Boy Scouts Troop 8, which meets at Messiah Lutheran.

One of the reasons I stayed here is because of the people. We got to feel like family and got to know each other, he said.

There are roughly 150 members of the congregation, and Squire says they were able to get close because they went through so much together.

We went through a lot of stuff and changes of ministry...I had my last confirmation class and it made me sad I wasnt going to work with them, he said. We helped each other, the congregation and I during our personal times. They returned what I was always trying to give to them.

In looking forward to his parting with Messiah Lutheran, Squire will still be on Staten Island and involved with ministries around the borough. He wants to continue partnering with the Feeding Ministry at Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church, and with Lutheran churches to help immigrants get settled on the Island through clothing drives and food donations.

After 40 years in the ministry it was time for me to slow down. But Im not really stopping. Im retiring from my call here at Messiah, but will still be involved in the church, he said.
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y.  Police have identified the 33-year-old motorcycle rider who died after his vehicle collided with a pickup truck on the West Shore Expressway near in Rossville Saturday evening.

Michael Bugliaro of Whiting, New Jersey, was operating a 2009 Suzuki motorcycle when he suffered severe body trauma as a result of striking a pickup truck while traveling northbound on the West Shore Expressway around 5 p.m. on July 1, according to a spokesman for the NYPDs Deputy Commissioner of Public Information.

He was attempting to travel in between the right and left lanes that were already occupied by vehicles, said the spokesman. Vehicles are riding, hes going in the middle, trying to go between the cars.

This Department of Transportation traffic camera shows the emergency response to a crash on the West Shore Expressway on Saturday, July 1, 2023.

The crash occurred when Bugliaro was traveling northbound on the West Shore Expressway about a half mile away from the Arthur Kill Road and Huguenot Avenue exit, when he collided with a 2008 Dodge pickup truck that was attempting to switch from the right lane to the left lane, according to the preliminary investigation by police.

As the truck was doing that [switching lanes] the motorcycle collided into his driver side door, the spokesman said. The motorcyclist lost control of his vehicle and ends up crashing into the roadway.

Traffic is backed up on the northbound West Shore Expressway as officials respond to a crash on Saturday, July 1, 2023. (Staten Island Advance/Luke Peteley)

Responding officers from the NYPDs 123rd Precinct found Bugliaro lying in the roadway with body trauma at the scene. The victim was pronounced deceased on scene by EMS, police said.

The 52-year-old male driver of the Dodge remained on scene uninjured, according to the police spokesman.

There are no arrests; the investigation remains ongoing.

This image from a Department of Transportation traffic camera shows an emergency response on the West Shore Expressway on Saturday, July 1, 2023.



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A real estate entrepreneur and former chief executive of Domain Group, Catalano bought ACM from Nine (the owner of this masthead) in 2018 for $115 million. The acquisition, backed by billionaire Alex Waislitz, involved 170 newspaper titles and a large amount of property in regional and capital cities.

Australian Community Media is a privately owned newspaper publisher with titles including The Canberra Times, The Newcastle Herald and The Land.

Managing director of ACM Tony Kendall told this masthead the company has been significantly impacted by the lack of federal government spend after extensive lobbying.

ACM has been on a selling spree recently, offloading eight South Australian and Queensland titles to The Star Group. It has sold a further six NSW titles to Hartley Higgins Provincial Press Group and another two titles in Western Australia to Sports Entertainment Group to partner with its radio licences.

Kendall says government ad spend is down 70 per cent across all media and has fallen further than that at his company, which he calls an unprecedented reduction.

We continue to lobby the government for a fair share of the media dollars they commit to the market more broadly, and we think should be going into supporting regional newspapers, he said.

According to data provided by Standard Media Index, the government category is down 43 per cent in the period between January and April this year against that period in 2022, representing a $90 million loss in advertising revenue.

The scale of the reduction is most severe in regional media, down 59 per cent year on year, with ACM bearing the brunt of the cut as a major player in the sector.
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 Lets also give a shout-out to the media for reporting the shenanigans of Gladys Berejiklian and Daryl Maguire (A corrupt liar; ICAC, June 30). Without it, we the public would have been completely in the dark about the corruption that took place. Journalists help keep those in power accountable and honest. Thats why we need to continue supporting journalism and the media. Con Vaitsas, Patra, Greece Gladys Berejiklian Daryl Maguire ICAC report Credit: Marija Ercegovac That Berejiklian was found to be corrupt is not the shocking revelation: believing she would marry Maguire and have children at age 45 is.

Suzanne Saunders, Wadeville As noted by Peter Hartcher (To halt the rot, stop the rorts, July 1), the response from previous Coalition governments at both federal and state levels when accused of pork-barrelling was the response its not illegal. This was met with understandable outrage by the then oppositions, both of whom are now in government and have the power to pass laws to make pork-barrelling illegal. Albanese and Minns: whats the hold-up? Ian Rewell, Longueville Berejiklian would do much to restore her reputation if she would withdraw her endorsement of pork-barrelling, which is the double enemy of democracy because it rewards government electorates while punishing non-government ones. That is not good government for the people of NSW but a descent into tribalism, whose features are rampant corruption, political instability and mayhem. ICAC is our strongest bastion against politicians indulging their self-interest. Present and past politicians, premiers and ministers especially, should be able to see beyond their own privileges and entitlements. Accountability is the bedrock of democracy. Howard Dick, Toronto Brad Hazzard and his Ruby Princess Sydney COVID superspreader event. Dominic Perrottet and his heartless icare. What did they have in common? Gladys Berejiklian was their leader. Overlooking her boyfriends misdeeds may be excused as a romantic mistake, but overlooking her ministers misdeeds can not. The near total silence of Labor in opposition also encouraged these misdeeds. Chris Minns now needs to back ICAC with legal teeth. To continue the silence will be a clear sign that voting for independents at the next election is the only way forward for the honest working taxpayer. Michael Preece, Summer Hill Carmel Tebbutt (I admired Gladys too, but her downfall is her fault, July 1) has insightfully recognised the former premiers main flaw as a leader: Berejiklian felt she should not be judged by others standards, and that she, alone, understood the job, its pressures, and what is right and wrong. Berejiklian should carefully consider Tebbutts wise words before she embarks upon a hubristic and futile legal challenge. Pam Timms, Suffolk Park

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The contribution to the Riverina Conservatorium by the disgraceful actions of Daryl Maguire may well be a boon to the people of my region too, Lesley Forbes (Letters, June 30). However, this contribution will be forever tainted by the justifiable findings of the ICAC inquiry. There is no reason imaginable why this clear case of corruption should not be mentioned by the inquiry. While the conservatorium now has some improved facilities, this has clearly been at the expense of the rest in NSW. Terry Charleston, Cootamundra ALP must ignore Duttons destructive ways The weak and disorganised state of the federal Liberal Party has no better representation than the role of wrecker adopted by Peter Dutton (Dutton the wrecker risks self-demolition, July 1). Unable to put forward cohesive and attractive policy alternatives to the firm and clear direction of the Albanese government, the opposition leader has decided to attempt to create maximum division, trading in half-truths, exaggeration and unwarranted negativity. As pinpointed by George Megalogenis, Dutton has taken a page out of the Tony Abbott playbook, seemingly unaware of the ultimate downfall that Abbott brought on himself. Opposition Leader Peter Dutton Credit: Alex Ellinghausen However, there are signs that Duttons approach may be gaining some traction; the Albanese government cannot afford to be spooked and govern with too much caution. While there will always be an audience for the insincerity and fearmongering of Dutton, the ALP must continue on a path of much-needed reform and rectification of years of Coalition neglect and inaction. Ross Butler, Rodd Point Totally agree with the Megalogenis article. In a time of global uncertainty, Australians could be leading the way with a bit of consensus and bi-partisanship. But with the disruptive wrecking ball Dutton leading the way to create division and roadblocks, positive outcomes become more difficult. Negativity is flowing through the Liberal party like a pollutant under Duttons reign. Most Australians wish to move forward on the major issues including the Voice. Duttons removal as leader will be a positive and lead to constructive dialogue. David Goldstein, Balgowlah After a lost decade of achieving next to nothing in government, it will take more from the Liberals than opposing everything to get back into government. Abbotts successful negativity in opposition morphed into an inept and ineffective term in office. Wrecking, sniping and undermining doesnt cut it anymore; Dutton has shown nothing positive and no policies that would make Australia a better place as he steers the Coalition into political irrelevance. Alan Marel, North Curl Curl

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Liberals being unpopular with younger people is the problem. Younger people are kinder than the Liberal Party because younger people can appreciate hardship for people through circumstances and arent dismissive of the needy, as many Liberals are. Liberals and indeed Labor could also turn young renters into buyers with policies to get Baby Boomers to sell off their property hoard, perhaps by incentives to get them to sell and put the money into Australian companies listed on the stock market. John Dobinson, Herston (QLD) Free uni not only benefit I dont doubt that David MacKintosh worked hard for what he has (Letters, July 1). But he fails to acknowledge some other generational advantages beyond free university education: an actual career path less at risk of being disrupted by technology or globalisation, steady employment instead of casualisation and precarity, and perhaps most important of all, affordable housing, with average prices growing from 4.3 times to 8.8 times average earnings since the early 80s. If the money spent on his education was a net benefit for society, shouldnt that still be the case for the young of today?

David Morgan, Ashfield I, too, might be regarded as a Boomer, though in my mind I float unattached between designated generations. I work, pay tax, volunteer, pay rent and subsidise the rents of another individual and a family of four. When I retire, I will have a modest super and a semi-detached home to live in, and I will be more than satisfied. To those who wish to generalise and label, be careful.

Meredith Williams, Northmead Its a funny thing about retirees because some with share portfolios are not actually wealthy. Lets make it fairer all round and limit refunds of franking credits (from all sources) to say $15,000 yearly per individual. The discounted capital gains tax isnt a wealth tax because the capital gain is treated as income. Instead, try NSW land tax; its a form of wealth tax. Including the primary residence in the pension assets test without a threshold would deprive most pensioner homeowners of their pension. What a way for a government to lose office. Geoffrey Williamson, Woollahra

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Heaven on Earth Laura Chungs earth report card was sobering but essential reading (In chartered territory, evidence of record warm year, July 1). As heat and extreme weather records fall like dominoes across the globe, I shudder to think what an El Nino summer means for Australian wildlife, regional communities and for the Great Barrier Reef. The situation is heartbreaking, given that we humans have the solutions. Imagine, for example, the health, social and environmental benefits that would be achieved with cheap, clean and abundant renewable energy powering efficient electric homes and transportation? If governments could break free from the shackles of fossil fuels, and we could work together to adapt to the baked-in climate impacts, we could yet create a safe and prosperous future for generations to come. The choice is in our hands. Amy Hiller, Kew (Vic) Australia faces the prospect of more devastating climate-fuelled bushfires if global warming is not reined in. Credit: Getty Images I fail to understand the complacency of governments about the global climate emergency we face. In many parts of Australia, the weather has been kinder to us with the cooler La Nina season. But this year we are faced with another El Nino, meaning more severe droughts, record high temperatures, and the threat of intense bushfires. Who could forget the devastation of the Black Summer fires of 2019 to 2020? We are not immune. Yet our government continues to approve extraction and use of the very products that fuel this emergency. The Narrabri coal-mining project alone is set to release around half a million tonnes of carbon emissions each year, according to estimates. Wake up, Australia. Anne OHara, Wanniassa Letter late than never Im so glad to read that my published hope (Letters, June 4) was realised, and that Dennis Lillee was indeed kind enough to now replace the sadly lost and much-treasured letter that he had sent to Kate Halfpennys husband, Clive, when he was a lad. Anne Ring, Coogee Kate Halfpennys delightful piece (After all these years, this is Lillees finest delivery, July 1) reminded me of my similar experience. Aged nine, I wrote a letter about myself and family addressed to The Mackintosh of Mackintosh, Moy Hall, Via Inverness, Scotland. A month or so later, a letter addressed to me arrived, with the Royal Navy crest on the back of the envelope. Inside was a lovely letter from Rear Admiral Lachlan The Mackintosh of Mackintosh. He was a war hero  captain of HMS Eagle, sunk while defending the famous Malta convoy. We corresponded for years  he sent me a history of the Mackintoshes and the clan muniments, which I treasure to this day, along with his letters. Thank you, Kate, for reminding me. Andrew Macintosh, Cromer

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In vino veritas Such is the concern about student cheating that Professor Dawson says, we are looking at increasing the use of interactive oral exams; in other words, conducting a conversation with the student (Watch out now: Hundreds of HSC students caught cheating, July 1). The founder of the original Academy, Plato, also favoured this form of examination  by personal question and answer. In his book The Laws, he suggests examining each student by this method twice, once when the student is sober and once when drunk. Before we laugh at this quaint idea from long ago, recall the way we assess people for important positions in business today: the candidate attends a formal interview, and then is taken to dinner by the board. Jim Mackenzie, Cherrybrook Is it too simple to suggest that we stop using devices for teaching and use old-fashioned textbooks, pens and paper to combat cheating and plagiarism? Who knows, it may even help with mental health issues. Jenny Greenwood, Hunters Hill Cruel, not corrupt The robo-debt royal commission is not delivering its long-anticipated findings until July 7 to allow it the opportunity to make referrals to the newly formed National Anti-Corruption Commission (PwC, former Morrison minister on anti-corruption watchdog referral wishlist, June 27). As sensible as this is, I doubt they will have much to refer. The commission has exposed the blistering incompetence of government ministers and senior public servants and has shown those people to be wilfully indifferent to the suffering of victims. As reprehensible as this was, it is probably not corrupt. Corruption requires some level of self-serving intelligence. Ross Hudson, Mount Martha (Vic.) Ticket to ride

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Save Log in , register or subscribe to save articles for later. Save articles for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them any time. Got it Normal text size Larger text size Very large text size Investment properties, Airbnbs and even caravans are being used as drug labs across Sydney, exposing suburban neighbourhoods to organised criminal gangs and a very real threat of toxic explosions. The dangerous trade is also burrowing further into the citys fringe, police bosses say, after two multimillion-dollar labs were uprooted in the last week. Retirees on Oakhursts Southee Circuit peered through lace curtains as heavily armed police stormed a brick house in their quiet corner of Sydney late last month. HAZMAT firefighters and specially trained police in yellow jumpsuits followed, dragging buckets of chemicals out to the front lawn. Forensic police dismantle a clandestine methamphetamine laboratory on a suburban street in Oakhurst, in the citys west. Credit: Janie Barrett There were few signs that the unassuming rental hid a clandestine lab, $2 million of methamphetamine and $10,000 cash until police cars converged. The cook was brought from overseas in the UK to set up a lab and extract methamphetamine, Drug and Firearms Squad commander John Watson told the Herald.

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Two men were arrested, and more than two kilograms of methamphetamine were produced, but we were able to prevent it hitting the streets. The drug squad is now finding labs secretly set up in Airbnbs, short-term holiday lets and rental homes rather than set down in permanent locations, Watson said. The Oakhurst operation was just five minutes drive from the largest lab the squad found in 2022. It was linked to $21 million worth of ice, bundles of cash, and cars with secret compartments, and took a full week to dismantle last October. Regional police and firefighters during a training course inside a simulated suburban home littered with childrens toys and caustic chemicals. Credit: Janie Barrett In April this year the squad were called in to a lab inside a Parramatta high-rise apartment. The cooks had soaked 60 packets of baby wipes in methamphetamine oil so they could sell it without raising suspicion. Some labs travel across the country packed in the boot of a car, set up for a matter of days or weeks, and then move on. Weve even had converted caravans and trailers that people have hitched on the back of vehicles that have been stopped or located that were just mobile labs, Watson said.

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Box labs are so common theyre one of the three scenarios the drug squad spent last week training country cops to detect. Watson said the familiar clandestine labs are the heart of a new breed of drug syndicate; no longer organised along ethnic lines or dominated by outlaw bikie gangs (OMCG) as in previous years. Theres no real ethnicity, its not necessarily OMCG doing the labs  Theyre syndicates limited purely by imagination and connected with the common purpose of manufacturing these drugs, Watson said. Detective Superintendant Warren Lysaght with a mock drug lab at Orchard Hills in the citys west, where police and firefighters are trained to search and secure meth houses in rural NSW. Credit: Janie Barrett For drug cooks, the goal hasnt changed: stay off the radar for as long as possible. The residents of Southee Circuits lab kept to themselves, locals said, and Watson wants the public to know how often he hears that. These people arent inviting anyone over, theyre not talking to neighbours, the commander said.

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You might hear stirring noises inside, indicative of something mechanical, some sort of grinding noise continually during weird hours. You may be able to see someone loading up vans with waste water, plastic buckets. Bad salt was still scrawled in a drug cooks handwriting on one bucket seized from Oakhurst. Tea-coloured liquid sloshed as the officers decanted it into a forensic container. Such drug lab waste is caustic enough to rot your fingers off, Detective Inspector Warren Lysaght told officers learning how to combat the drug trade, down the road at a massive training facility. Lysaght spent Friday teaching country police officers how to identify and stabilise drug labs until specialised units arrive from Sydney. Five years ago they were predominantly in Sydney metro areas, but weve seen a real pattern of movement to remote areas, Watson said. They feel theyre not as known by law enforcement in those areas, or maybe the labs are so remote and distant neighbours wont detect them.

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The final test at the Orchard Hills training facility requires officers to enter a home with a simulated active lab. They edge past glassware percolating on the kitchen bench, open caustic chemicals and electrical wires, while being alert to potential explosions or toxins. Childrens toys and clothes are dotted around the room between a massive methamphetamine condenser and white powder racked into lines on the dining room table. A mock drug lab was set up for the simulation. Credit: Janie Barrett Watson said its not uncommon for families, including children, to also live in the labs. Sometimes cooks or their family members show up at emergency departments with chemical burns. Its not uncommon for clandestine labs to catch on fire, to explode; theyre inherently dangerous, Watson said. Our hearts and minds go out to these kids  Its devastating for the officers investigating to know these children have been exposed. Six days after the Oakhurst raid, heavily armed police flooded into Eric Crescent in Lidcombe, where another laboratory was found in the kitchen. The HAZMAT and police chemical unit followed to dismantle the equipment.

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Nine people were taken to hospital and dozens of residents had to be evacuated after a fire at the Gold Coasts Q1 building, Australias tallest skyscraper.

Police closed several streets and paramedics were treating residents for smoke inhalation after they made their way down several flights of stairs after the fire just after 7am on Monday.

Firefighters had the blaze contained by 9am.

Clifford Street and Surfers Paradise Boulevard were closed, with police diverting traffic. The streets were later reopened.
More than 25 years ago, the Canadian province of Quebec introduced universal, $5-a-day daycare.

Fast-forward to today, and Canadas federal government is introducing $10-a-day universal early childhood education and care to the rest of the country.

The Australian government is currently looking at how to improve the countrys childcare system, and there are two broad reviews of the existing system being undertaken by the Productivity Commission and the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission.

Canadian economist Professor Gordon Cleveland said in Canada, Australia is used as an example of what not to do in childcare policy.

We would say youre funding on the demand side, youre funding parents rather than funding the services. Thats a bad thing to do, he said.
The state government will stage an intervention at Concord Hospital after staff revolted against the hospitals chief executive over concerns including a toxic workplace culture and a backlog of radiology scans.

A majority of the hospitals senior medical staff voted in favour of a no-confidence motion against Sydney Local Health District chief executive Dr Teresa Anderson, who presides over Concord and four other inner-Sydney hospitals, at a secret ballot on Thursday.

Medical staff at Concord Hospital passed a vote of no confidence in the hospitals leadership on Thursday night. Credit: James Brickwood

The Herald reported last week that staff were particularly concerned about a backlog of thousands of unreported scans due to staff levels in the radiology department. One member of the department said there was a backlog of more than 30,000 scans.

Health Minister Ryan Park had an urgent discussion with Health Secretary Susan Pearce at the weekend and decided to intervene.
'Never touch your retirement savings': Suze Orman was 'so upset' when the government made it easier to tap your 401(k) in an emergency  here's why and what you can do instead

'Never touch your retirement savings': Suze Orman was 'so upset' when the government made it easier to tap your 401(k) in an emergency  here's why and what you can do instead

It might have seemed like a good idea at the time: allowing Americans to pull from their 401(k) accounts penalty free when the COVID-19 pandemic struck.

Many people faced uncertainty when it came to their jobs and finances and the ability to dip into retirement funds provided some needed short-term stability.

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But as personal finance expert Suze Orman told Moneywise last fall, the short-term gains might not be worth it.

I was so upset, honest to God, when the government allowed people to withdraw $100,000 from their account, Orman said.

Moneywise spoke with her again this spring about the need to keep your retirement accounts intact.

The more expenses you have, the more debt you have, the more income you need when you finally retire, she explains. How do you get that income? By having a lot of money in your retirement accounts or investment accounts.

Starting next year, under the Secure 2.0 Act that passed at the end of 2022, you will be allowed to take $1,000 a year from your 401(k) account tax-free.

The author and host of the Women & Money Podcast warns that borrowing from your retirement nest egg is often a big mistake that many people will regret when they enter retirement.

Watch now: Full interview: Suze Orman and Devin Miller of SecureSave delve into why so many Americans aren't prepared for their next financial emergency

What happened

The CARES Act, a COVID relief law that was enacted in March of 2020, made it easier to pull money from ones 401(k) or IRA.

It allowed people to take up to $100,000 out of their accounts and have three years to pay it back without the normal 10% early withdrawal penalty and tax payment.

For Americans who needed cash quickly, their 401(k) was a tempting well to dip into that wouldnt have been otherwise available.

In the spring of 2020, nearly 20% of all withdrawals from 401(k)s, between April 6 and June 26 were related to COVID, according to CNBC.

CNBC reported that at Fidelity Investments, the largest provider of 401(k) plans in the U.S., more than 700,000 people took from their 401(k) or their 403(b) plan. The median amount was about $5,000, while more than 18,000 people asked for the full $100,000 amount.

And Vanguards How America Saves report from 2021 found that more than 7% of people withdrew from their 401(k) or a 401(b)  similar to a 401(k) but available to not-for-profit companies  in 2020.

But Orman says taking money out of those retirement accounts at that time has ended up costing people a lot more in the long run.

It tells you that people did not have an emergency savings account, she said.

In fact, only roughly 1 in 3 Americans could pay for an unexpected $400 expense without tapping their credit cards or taking out a loan, according to a November 2022 poll by Orman's emergency savings platform SecureSave.

But Orman says you should always think twice before withdrawing that money for any emergency situation you find yourself in.

"I want to be clear: I still think you should do everything possible to never touch your retirement savings. It is crucial to work on building up an emergency savings account," she wrote in a February blog post.

Read more: 3 big mistakes people make with cash back credit cards that cost them every time they swipe

Unseen costs of dipping into your 401(k)

People who took money from their accounts at that time missed out on having that cash work for them during the historic market gains that came after the deep lows of 2020, says Orman.

They allowed them to do that at the exact time that the stock market was skyrocketing  skyrocketing, right, so they missed out on a tremendous amount of growth, especially if they were near retirement at that time.

With the country's continued economic uncertainty, putting that money back into your 401(k) may not look all that appealing.

People who are working today are watching their 401(k)'s go down 10%, 20%, 50%, said Orman last fall. You can mark my bottom dollar, that they will stop contributing to their 401(k)s because they are scared to death.

In fact, a 2023 report from investment firm Vanguard shows the average 401(k) account balance at Vanguard in 2022 was down 20% compared to 2021.

Given the current economic climate, Orman advises Americans to take the least amount possible out of retirement accounts" even once you enter retirement.

Orman told Moneywise the less money you withdraw each year, the better off you are.

Watch now: Full interview: Suze Orman and Devin Miller of SecureSave delve into why so many Americans aren't prepared for their next financial emergency

Dont go dipping into your 401(k) now

Beyond missing the historic gains, taking from your 401(k) can leave you vulnerable if you ever need to declare bankruptcy, says Orman, because 401(k)s are protected against bankruptcy and cant be touched if you ever need to go that route.

So if you are really in a horrific situation, and you have all this debt, you're underwater with everything, and you need to claim bankruptcy to get rid of that, you still have your retirement accounts.

By making it easier to pull from those accounts, legislators have allowed a lot of people to put their financial future at risk, advises Orman.

If you start taking money from your retirement accounts simply to pay bills and use it for anything other than retirement, you're going to use up all the money that was protected against bankruptcy to pay bills, she said last year. Now you don't have the money to do so.

What to do before you pull from your 401(k)

The majority of Americans are feeling some level of anxiety when it comes to their financial future. Data from the Federal Reserve Board shows only 40% of non-retirees feel confident about their retirement savings.

But before you start plundering your 401(k), it might be worth your while to get some advice from an expert first.

Working with a financial adviser is often a smart move and its better to get started sooner rather than later.

Many people find it overwhelming to find a suitable and trusted professional. Thankfully, there are free online services that will match you with a pre-screened financial adviser who can meet your unique needs.

With a little expert insight, you might be able to find a better solution to your financial worries than robbing your retirement fund.

What to read next

 With files from Bethan Moorcraft

This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind.
Loading The GIGN  Frances top hostage rescue unit, similar to the SAS  arrived in Marseille on Saturday evening, according to police in Bouches-du-Rhone, following a night of fierce clashes between police and protesters. The results of the night can be summed up in one word: apocalyptic, Rudy Manna, of the Bouches-du-Rhone police union, said of Friday night. We had scenes of guerrillas in the centre of Marseille, the northern districts were also affected by looting, burning of vehicles and trash cans. Gerald Darmanin, the French interior minister, said a lot of resources were being sent to the two embattled cities, which have been home to some of the worst clashes since the unrest broke out on Tuesday.

As well as the elite counter-terror unit, armoured vehicles and helicopters were being sent to shore up security in Marseille. Graffiti reading Justice for Nahel is seen on a wall nearby the mosque in which his funeral prayers were held, on July 1 in Nanterre, France. Credit: Getty Despite the violence, curfews have not been introduced in either of the two cities. French police on Saturday said their officers were being ambushed by rioters. More than 200 policemen have been injured and over 700 businesses ransacked or burnt down since the police shooting of Merzouk sparked nationwide unrest on Tuesday.

Police made 1311 arrests overnight from Friday to Saturday  the most so far  but claimed the violence had been lower in intensity and with fewer cars and buildings set ablaze compared with previous nights. A woman pays her respects at the site where Nahel Merzouk died in Nanterre, France. Credit: Getty Meanwhile, hundreds of mourners gathered in Nanterre for Merzouks funeral on Saturday afternoon. The funeral passed off peacefully, although correspondents described a tense atmosphere and mourners described anger at what they said was endemic police racism. Merzouk, who was of Algerian and Moroccan descent, was driving a yellow Mercedes through Nanterre about 8am on Tuesday when he was shot. There were two other people in the vehicle at the time.

Police initially claimed the officer opened fire because the vehicle was driving towards them as if to hit them. Charred cars and a bus are pictured in Lyon on Friday. Credit: Laurent Cipriani But a social media video of the incident, which news agencies have confirmed, shows an officer pointing a gun through the stationary car window before opening fire as it drove away. Prosecutors investigating the case said on Friday that two motorcycle officers involved told investigators that they tried to stop the car when they spotted it driving in a bus lane about 8am on Tuesday. The driver ignored an initial request to stop and drove away through a red light, according to their account. They gave chase, pulled the car over, and pointed guns at the driver to deter him from driving away again.

Protesters say his killing is typical of a heavy-handed and racist approach to policing in Frances deprived racially mixed neighbourhoods. The riots are Frances worst since the 2018 Yellow Vest protests brought the country to a standstill. French television reported that at least four officers were wounded by shotgun fire in Vaulx-en-Velin, a suburb of Lyon, on Friday night. The main public library in Marseille, Frances second-largest city, was burnt down on Thursday. Overnight looting on Friday continued into Saturday morning, sparking appeals from shopkeepers for French President Emmanuel Macron to do something. The citys mayor asked residents not to put out rubbish or other bulk items because of the risk they would be set on fire by rioters.

CRS 8, an elite riot squad, was deployed to Lyon after the citys mayor issued a public appeal for reinforcements. A man passes by a wall illuminated by a burning barricade on which is written Police kills in the centre of Lyon, central France, on Friday. Credit: AP The unit, formed in 2021 as a rapid response force to tackle urban violence, consists of about 60 specialist officers trained to deploy from their base outside Paris within 15 minutes of the order being given. It has previously been involved in a controversial operation to evict undocumented migrants from the French Indian Ocean island of Mayotte. Twelve people were arrested overnight Friday to Saturday in Lyon, where rioters have fired massed barrages of fireworks rockets and hurled tiles from rooftops at police.

Explosions were heard on the streets overnight on Saturday and looters hit businesses ranging from motorcycle dealers to luxury boutiques. St Etienne, 65 kilometres south-east of Lyon, announced a curfew for unaccompanied minors from 7pm to 6pm. Gael Perdriau, the citys mayor, appealed to the state to enforce order by all necessary means. With no sign of the riots easing, Macron cancelled a trip to Germany on Saturday. Macron spoke on the phone on Saturday with Frank-Walter Steinmeier, the German president, and briefed him on the situation, said a German spokesman.
Pickens, South Carolina: Former President Donald Trump marked a return to the large-scale rallies of his previous presidential campaigns on Saturday, speaking to thousands gathered in the streets of a small South Carolina city on a blazing day ahead of the July 4 holiday.

Former US President Donald Trump delivers remarks at his Make America Great Again rally in Pickens, South Carolina on Saturday. Credit: Reuters

Theres nowhere else Id rather be to kick off the Fourth of July weekend than right here on Main Street, with thousands of hardworking South Carolina patriots who believe in God, family and country, Trump said to a roaring crowd standing on asphalt as temperatures climbed into the 30s.

It wasnt immediately clear how many people had gathered in the streets of downtown Pickens, a small city in South Carolinas conservative Upstate of about 3400 residents. Law enforcement officials told some media outlets that about 15,000 people had gathered by 11am, two hours before Trumps remarks.
PHILIPSBURG:--- The management team of the Police Force of Sint Maarten (KPSM) extends its congratulations to the participants from Sint Maarten and other Dutch Caribbean islands who have successfully completed the "Training Intelligence Ondersteuner" at the police station in Philipsburg, Sint Maarten.

This training program, aimed at enhancing intelligence support within law enforcement, has provided participants with invaluable knowledge and skills to strengthen their abilities in the field. KPSM commend each individual for their dedication, perseverance, and commitment to professional development.

The successful completion of this rigorous training is a testament to the hard work and determination exhibited by all participants. The Police Force of Sint Maarten is proud to acknowledge their accomplishments and the positive impact they will undoubtedly have on their communitys safety and security.

KPSM would also like to express our gratitude to the instructors and trainers who facilitated the "Training Intelligence Ondersteuner" program, as their expertise and guidance were instrumental in shaping the participants' success.

KPSM Press Release.
TOKIO - Some families show their history through trees, but this family with century-old roots near Plains shares their story by vines - grape vines to be exact.

On a hot June morning, Kirk and Shawn Williams walked down the rows of grapes, which would later be turned into their family's Williams Ranch wines, as they shared their story.

"It's really good to be able to tell our story to people," said Kirk, whose family started the ranch in 1915 in Tokio. "It's nice to be able to carry on the tradition."

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The grapes, once harvested near the tasting room on 2031 CR 120 or other nearby vineyards, go to Brownfield to be crushed and bottled, then the bottles are labeled by their youngest son.

Each bottle boasts a label with tidbits of the family's history. The Moscato, Rose, and Cabernet Sauvignon labels depict the Tokio post office. The Markey Mayhem Merlot honors Shawn's mother, the youngest child of a large family, with a black and white photo of the family. Rafter W Red Blend, named after Kirk's father, and Mary Dale's White Blend honor relatives as well.

Shawn Williams holds the Markey Mayhem Merlot wine at Williams Ranch Vineyard, Wednesday, June 21, 2023, in Tokio. Williams' mom loved Merlot and they named the wine after her.

"We've been able to tell the story of our parents and our family, and that's been fun," Shawn said.

From the land to the label, family is the heart of the operation, and the Williams hope to bring more families to experience all the property has to offer.

More: Take a sip back in time: Yoakum County vineyard launching tasting room on old family ranch

Rooted in family: Williams Ranch Tasting Room offers family-friendly space, events, in century-old home

Off the beaten path near Plains sits a unique 1930s house, where bits of sandstone stick out from the exterior to spell out initials or reveal other details about the family that has called this land home since 1915.

"The house is made with concrete blocks, which were made on-site, and my grandmother broke sandstone pieces and stuck them in wet concrete," Kirk said. "We have people's names, designs, art. We're still finding artifacts in the stones."

Shawn Williams walks around the Williams Ranch Vineyard tasting room, Wednesday, June 21, 2023, in Tokio. The house is her husband, Kirk's, family home from 1915.

The Williams family recently renovated and opened their historic home as a tasting room for anyone who wants to swing by for a drink, a chat and some family-friendly fun.

"We're very child-friendly," Shawn said. "We have crayons, Legos, cornhole and activities. It is an hour drive from Lubbock, and you can bring your kids. We have five kids ourselves, so we are very family-friendly."

The vineyard and winery also offers special events that are open to everyone. For September, they will host a harvest festival with grape stomping.

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"That's something people like to do," Shawn said. "And we do not use the grape juice from that. We just celebrate."

In October, they host Pumpkins in the Vineyard, where people can pick their own pumpkins, take photos, and enjoy hayrides. Food trucks and live music will be there as well to keep the fun going.

In December, they are looking forward to having Christmas at the Ranch. Last year, the event offered free photos with Cowboy Santa, mulled wine, free children's' activities, ornament making and cookie decorating.

Shawn also suggested people join their wine club, which gives members 15% off their wine, includes three shipments of three customized bottles a year, and other benefits. Members can have orders shipped, delivered, or pick it up themselves at one of the pickup parties.

"Our pickup parties always have food, and sometimes we'll do dinner with pairings," Shawn said. "It's just a fun time, and members could be the first to try our new wines. We hope to expand our club and our line this year."

Outside of events, the wine can be purchased online, on location Saturday afternoons from 2-6 p.m., or at their Downtown Lubbock Farmers Market booth on Saturday mornings.

People can keep up with the Williams Ranch Vineyard online at williamsranchvineyard.com, Facebook, and Instagram. The vineyard can be reached by phone at 210-601-4347 or email williamsranchvineyard@gmail.com.

Williams Ranch turned mesquite pasture into vineyard, here's why and how

When it comes to planting wine grapes, there are many things to consider. Two of the items on that list are soil and and climate, which the Texas High and South Plains regions meet.

"This is a good region to grow grapes because our elevation is high, 3,000 feet above sea level, so we get a nice diurnal shift between morning and evenings," Kirk said. "When we get rainfall, it usually just rains and moves on. The soil is good, and drains well."

Kirk Williams stands in his vineyard, Wednesday, June 21, 2023, in Tokio.

Kirk's decision to join the growing Texas wine industry came to fruition in 1998, when the Williams began planting Cabernet Sauvignon grapes in the once mesquite-infested pasture.

"I've worked in the agriculture industry out there in Northern California, and kind of caught the wine bug up there," Kirk said. "When we came back on vacations, we would pass by Newsom Vineyards, and that clicked that we could grow grapes."

In Kirk's opinion, another part of why vineyards are popping up more frequently is due to wine grapes being a high-value crop with a fun product that doesn't take as much time as sorghum.

"The finished product is fun, and wineries are a desirable place to go," Kirk said.

The vineyard initially sold their grapes to other wineries. In 2020, the family decided to start using their grapes to make their own wine.

This article originally appeared on Lubbock Avalanche-Journal: Williams Ranch Vineyard & Winery bottles family history in High Plains
Episode two starts with a flashback from 1995, with a recap regarding mostly Captain Marvel's first movie. After the Marvel Studios intro, were fast-forwarded to 1997, in Brixton (London), Fury meets a teenage Gravik for the first time during the Skrulls vs Krees war. A mysterious woman introduces them and explains Gravik is a good kid who has lost his parent because of the war. The whole concept of this time is the way Fury helped Talos and the Skrulls reconstruct their community, now destructed by the Krees. Giah is just a pre-teen, barely older than when we see her in the movie.

Back in the present (no pun intended), we see the chaos the Skrull attack has brought on humans while Fury gets taken away by an apparently Russian guard, who turns out to be Talos instead. In the next scene, we see Talos on a train, disguised as a Russian woman, talking to some Russian guardians searching for Fury (who is hiding in the train carriage). During the trip, Fury starts talking about his childhood when he and his mother used to take the train to Detroit, confined to the colored car as he describes it, with no bathroom working, while they couldnt go to the dining car, so they brought food for themselves and make gamesher fave was: tell me something I dont know. All of this backstory brings up a discourse with Talos. Asking to tell him something he doesnt know about the Skrulls, their destruction, and what happened to the ones that fled after they lost the war. And we find out, with Fury, that most of the Skrulls that fled are not back on Earth. Millions of them. Talos complained about how Fury abandoned them and disappearedwhile Fury debated he was still one call away (which is true, he wouldve abandoned S.A.B.E.R. before, if Talos called. So I agree with Fury 100%). As they stop fighting, Fury asks Talos to go away.

In the next scene, were at Maria Hills funeral, as her mother touches her coffin, she sees Fury from a distance and runs to him to ask for an explanation about what happened to Maria. Why she died, what happened if it was worth it? He said they were in Moscow, and they killed her to hurt him. (I still think something going on, but I wont say what I think about this for now.) Marias mother blames him, saying Maria believed in him, and even if she doesnt know what her daughter died for she asks him if it wont be for nothing.

After this, we see Gravik and Giah in the car, talking about the attack, as she asks about Fury, Gravik tells me hes just an old man, he has no spy skills left, and he couldve killed him if he wanted to. Giah accompanies him to a Council meeting with some world leaders, to discuss what to do with Gravik after what happened in Moscow, as he murdered humans for no reason. Gravik starts speaking the Skrulls language and tells them Fury promised freedom to all of them and never actually helped. He abandoned them all, so he doesnt care about humans. Says he will conquer Earth. One of the apparent world members asks Gravik what will happen if the Avengers come backand he says he has thought of it all. This brings me to one question, maybe hes ready for Avengers, but what if hes not ready for other, different, more powerful superheroes? Much to think about. As all the council members swear loyalty to Gravik, nominating him as a Skrull generalwe learn all the supreme war leaders are, as a matter of fact, SKRULLS. We get the invasion is deeper than we originally thought. One of the Skrulls refuses to support him and runs away from the room, calling Talos to inform him about this sudden change of events.

At the Skrulls compound, Gravik gets a standing ovation after what he accomplished, while Giah seems a little suspicious of everything, and follows one of his thugs to a hidden lab, where two scientists are trying to make an experiment on something unknown called the Harvest. (Which has not been found yet.) Ive made some research and all Ive found is a Marvel Comics character called the Harvest butis it possible? Honestly, Id like to stick to the show for now, but Ill read some stuff about it. They also created an energy field or something? I dont know how to explain it but it reminded me of some sort of time travel portal. Or an inter-dimensional portal? I dont know, but Ive seen it before and Im VERY curious about it.

It reminded me of the Agents of SHIELDs machine we saw in season 4A when Robbie Reyes uncle got his powersand also the one Fitz used for project looking-glass. I like these references but at what cost? Some people even theorize Madame Hydra could be behind all this but who knows.

In London, Rhodey gets questioned about Fury and Maria Hills presence in Moscow during the attacks at an International Summitat which he gets a call from Fury asking him to meet ASAP. They meet at a tavern and start discussing how Furys presence in Moscow just set a precedent for the star of WWIII. Fury tells Rhodey to be careful and not to trust his guards, because they could be Skrulls, and tells him the war has started already and he needs to be protected and helped. Im actually disappointed by Rhodey because, I know things have changed, but Fury has ALWAYS been reliable, he created the Avengers, he MADE them, and he managed to run S.H.I.E.L.D. while pretending to be dead. Im actually hoping he was a Skrull because theres no way Rhodey treated Fury that way. Fury isnt the same as before the blip, but hes still an excellent spy. And, as he said to Rhodey, hes ALWAYS in.

In the next scene, we see Sonya stepping up during a Skrull interrogation. I have to say she reminded me of Peggy Carter a lot. And not because of the accent (lol) but the wit, the styleshe looks like a darker Peggy. She injects the Skrull with a compound that starts burning him from the inside and starts asking about Gravik. Apparently, those two scientists are working on a way to make the Skrulls stronger  heres another reference to what Leopold Fitz was doing in the framework. Is it a coincidence?

Anyway, after Sonya ends the interrogation, Gravik comes to get the Skrull, promising he wont hurt him. Promise he doesnt keep because he kills him in the woods right after.

At the end of the episode, we see a Skrull cooking in a fancy house, as Nick drives to this house, we learn the Skrull woman is actually his wife. Does he know that? Is she the woman who introduced Fury to Gravik in the flashbacks?

What did you think of this episode? Did you like it? Let me know in the comments!
H ollywood star Stanley Tucci has spoken of his belief that actors should not be restricted to roles that match their own sexuality amid an ongoing debate on the subject.

The 62-year-old American, who has starred in hits including The Hunger Games and The Devil Wears Prada, said an actors job is to play different people, adding: Thats the whole point of it.

In an interview about his life and career on BBC Radio 4s Desert Island Discs, host Lauren Laverne asked for his take on whether straight actors should play gay characters following his recent role playing Colin Firths on-screen partner in Supernova.

He said: Obviously, I believe thats fine, and Im always very flattered when gay men come up to me and talk about The Devil Wears Prada or when they talk about Supernova, and they say It was just so beautiful, you did it the right way  because often its not done the right way.

But I really do believe that an actor is an actor is an actor.

Youre supposed to play different people. You just are. Thats the whole point of it.

During the conversation, Tucci spoke of acting as an escape, particularly following the death of his first wife, Kathryn (Kate) Spath, in 2009 from breast cancer.

He said: Its a way of controlling time and emotion and space, because we have no control over any of that in our lives and thats what theatre does, thats what film-making does.

I feel much safer on stage than I do in my real life. Sometimes walking into a cocktail party or a dinner party I get very nervous.

Tucci said he did not work for a almost a year after Kates death, adding: You never really get over it.

Describing his guilt that he could not offer more help in her final days, he said: I was afraid it would affect me so greatly that it would overwhelm me, so that I wouldnt be able to go on and take care of the kids, so I had to step away.

Other people were there with her but you still feel guilty about it and you feel sad about it.

The actor, who now lives in London with his second wife, Felicity Blunt, spoke about the doubts he had dating the sister of his The Devil Wears Prada co-star Emily Blunt, who was more than two decades younger than him.

I was kind of afraid of getting into a relationship and I kept trying to break it off because I am 21 years older than she is and I didnt want to feel old but I knew this was an incredibly special person, he said.

If anybody made things better for all of us, it is her. Shes the one.
Review at a glance









I t is nearly two years since the Talibans resurgence shook the foundations of Afghanistan and the wider world. In little over three weeks, 20 years of western foreign policy was undone as terrorist fighters launched a lightning insurgency that culminated in the capture of Kabul and the fall of Afghanistans democratic Government.

With the war in Ukraine and its ramifications understandably dominating the headlines since, it is easy to forget the scale of the crisis. Overnight, 40 million people were left at the hands of a murderous regime that ruled through public floggings and executions. Women saw their rights obliterated: banned from secondary schools, universities, parks and gyms.

As the Taliban closed in on Kabul on August 13, 2021, British military personnel were tasked with the evacuation of 15,000 British passport holders, embassy staff and vulnerable Afghans in just 16 days as part of Operation Pitting. Then Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab was whisked from his sun lounger in Crete to direct the strategic response, which rapidly descended into chaos.

Soldiers in a C-17 plane / Channel 4

While Select Committees and newspaper investigations have already picked apart the political disaster that unfolded in Westminster, Channel 4s Evacuation tells the stories of the British military personnel who carried out the operation at Kabul airport. The soldiers, pilots and medics involved speak with admirable candour and honesty; a necessary tonic to the sunny optimism trotted out by ministers.

Evacuation perfectly captures how indecision at the top of Government led to chaos on the ground. British forces were tasked with processing those eligible for a flight for evacuation from the Baron Hotel, near the airport. But when thousands of desperate Afghan civilians amassed outside the hotel, many with babies and young children, squaddies were left with the heart-wrenching decision of who to take and who to leave in the hands of the Taliban. As one sergeant major, identified as Gaz, puts it: You had British foreign policy being dictated by a 19-year-old lance corporal.

What is striking is the youth and inexperience of many of the services personnel deployed through Operation Pitting, and their bravery in the face of this trauma. Some were on their first ever deployment to what was then the most hostile and combustible environment on earth. Diana Bird, a Royal Air Force Police squadron leader, describes her team as a sixth-form field trip.

The documentary also includes the voices of Afghans who were rescued during the Operation. Fawzia, a Supreme Court judge, faces death or imprisonment at the hands of the Taliban. I had convicted Taliban men, they would have killed us, she warns. Burhan, who worked as an interpreter for British forces in Helmand province during the 2001 war, movingly remembers the moment that a British soldier pulls him and his family across the fence towards a flight departing for Britain. He was like an angel; I will never forget his face.

Mike, one of the soldiers, being interviewed / Channel 4

Thirteen days into the evacuation, the perimeter of the airfield was struck by a suicide bomber, killing at least 13 US troops and 60 Afghan nationals. The scenes described by the soldiers are horrifying. Lance corporal David Mitchell compares it people being put in a blender and tipped out everywhere.

The documentary is well-paced and makes good use of camera phone footage and drone shots to illustrate the soldiers stories. As a pure record of events, it excels  but what it fails to do is place the fall of Kabul in any historical and geopolitical context. There is no explanation of the chain of events that set off the crisis: the failure to root out corruption in Afghanistans nascent democracy or train a decent state army and the sluggish response of western leaders. Nor is there any allusion to the allied invasion of 2001. Clocking in at nearly three hours, Evacuation could have easily devoted more time to providing this essential background.

At the end of the documentary, the soldiers reflect on the failure of Britains two-decade effort in Afghanistan. Some 456 British personnel lost their lives during the conflict and UK governments spent more than 22 billion on the deployment since September 2001. Calvin, an RAF wing commander, says his existence for 20 years felt as if it had been completely undone. LCpl Mitchell says Afghanistan is failed and suggests that a lot of us would have been saved if the UK had decided never to intervene in the first place.

The horrors of what unfolded over those 16 days will haunt them forever. But for ordinary Afghans, the pain evoked by the fall of Kabul is even greater. Their plight is captured movingly by Fawzia in one of the shows final scenes: We lost our careers, our professional lives, our country everything.

Evacuation will begin airing on Channel 4 on Sunday July 2
F ive Just Stop Oil protesters have been charged after disrupting the Pride parade in central London.

Seven eco-activists were arrested on suspicion of public nuisance offences after trying to block the march at 1.25pm in Down Street, Piccadilly, on Saturday.

Ben Plumpton, 68, of Underbank Ave, Charlestown, Calderdale; Zosia Lewis, 22, of Melbourne Street, Newcastle upon Tyne; Oliver Clegg, 20, of Olney Street, Manchester; Gosse Bootsma, 25, of no fixed address, and Callum Goode, 23, of Ashbourne, Derbyshire charged with behaviour likely to cause harassment, alarm or distress.

They have been bailed to attend Westminster Magistrates Court on August 4.

Two males, aged 19 and 22, were released on bail pending further enquiries.

Prior to the event, Just Stop Oil had threatened escalations if organisers refused to comply with their demands.

A Just Stop Oil spokesman had said: The climate crisis has already killed, and made homeless, millions of people including many LGBTQ+ people.

We are calling on Pride in London to make a statement condemning new oil, gas and coal. If Pride in London fails to take these basic steps necessary to protect our community, we will have to consider potential escalations.
R iots in France, killer asbestos in schools and taxpayer funds directed to removing asylum seekers were among the stories making the front pages of the UK papers on Sunday.

The Independent continues to report on the riots in France, saying there were more than 1,300 arrests on Friday night.

The Sunday Times says 10,000 people have been killed by asbestos in schools across the UK.

Meanwhile, the Sunday Express reveals hundreds of millions in taxpayer funds has been given to organisations fighting to remove asylum seekers to Rwanda.

The Sunday Telegraph says hundreds of miles of overheard power cables and pylons will be fast tracked in an effort to reach net zero targets.

The Sunday Mail say Met Police officers at London Pride have been banned from wearing badges that commemorate fallen officers.

The Sunday Mirror looks into the Stephen Lawrence murder case, with the paper talking to one of Lawrences best friends who accused the Met Police of sabotage.

And the Daily Star says Britain is facing an invasion of boozed up hornets who like to sip beer and wine.
(Bloomberg) -- Fighters from the Wagner mercenary group may be about to regroup en masse in Belarus, according to reports from the Associated Press and US analysts at the Institute for the Study of War. Satellite images show hundreds of large tents set up over the past week at a previously abandoned base in Asipovichy, about 150 miles north of the Ukrainian border, ISW said, adding that the militia forces will reportedly operate out of three field camps in Belarus.

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Ukrainian military commanders met Saturday at the Rivne nuclear power plant to assess possible threats to the site and hear a report on the operational situation on the Belarusian border, President Volodymyr Zelenskiy said on Telegram. As many as 8,000 Wagner fighters may be deployed in Belarus, a Ukrainian border guard official told local media.

Zelenskiy repeated a warning that Russia plans what he called a terrorist act at the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant to pressure Western allies to end the war on Kremlin terms. Russia is reducing its presence at the plant, and Ukrainian employees have been advised to leave, Ukraines Defense Intelligence Directorate said in a report on Friday.

CIA Director William Burns called his Russian counterpart to say the US had no involvement in the failed mutiny by Wagner Group leader Yevgeny Prigozhin, the Wall Street Journal reported, citing officials familiar with the matter. The call with Sergei Naryshkin is believed to be the highest-level contact between the governments since the attempted uprising a week ago.

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J oe Biden will meet the King and Rishi Sunak on a visit to London this month to further strengthen the close relationship between our nations, the White House has confirmed.

It will mark the Kings first meeting with Mr Biden since his coronation, which the US president did not attend, with First Lady Jill Biden taking his place.

Mr Biden will visit the UK on July 9 before heading off to the Nato summit in Lithuania and ending in Finland on July 13.

A visit to the UK had long been expected and comes after Prime Minister Rishi Sunak visited Washington last month for talks.

Confirming the visit, White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said: President Biden will first travel to London, United Kingdom for engagements with King Charles III and Prime Minister Rishi Sunak to further strengthen the close relationship between our nations.

Buckingham Palace said the King would meet with Mr Biden at Windsor Castle on July 10.

A No10 spokesperson said the visit reflects the strong relationship" between the UK and US.

The Prime Minister looks forward to welcoming President Biden in the UK later this month, she said.

This reflects the strong relationship between the UK and US, building on a series of bilateral visits and meetings earlier this year.

We'll set out further detail in due course."

Mr Biden made a brief trip to Northern Ireland in April to mark the 25th anniversary of the Good Friday Agreement, meeting the Prime Minister for brief talks in Belfast.

Next weeks short trip by Mr Biden comes after the US and the UK announced a new partnership, the Atlantic Declaration, to bolster economic security.

Announced during Mr Sunak's visit to the White House, it included commitments on easing trade barriers, closer defence industry ties and a data protection deal.

While both sides used that Washington visit to hail the strength of US-UK ties, Mr Biden has not been afraid of occasionally criticising London.

Mr Biden in May claimed that he visited the island of Ireland earlier this year to ensure the Brits didn't screw around", amid ongoing US concern about the impact of Brexit on the peace process.

During that visit, the President told the Irish parliament that he believed the UK should be working more closely with the administration in Dublin to support Northern Ireland.

Mr Sunak will also be attending the Nato summit in Vilnius, which is seen as a crunch summit at which a compromise on Ukraines demand for membership of the alliance is expected to be hammered out.
P olice officers at London Pride were reportedly told not to wear a badge commemorating officers killed in the line of duty because of concerns about its links to far-right groups in the US.

While the Thin Blue Line badge has traditionally been used to show support for law enforcement, it has become politically charged in the US, where it has been used by counter-protesters at Black Lives Matter marches.

The ban of the badge at London Pride, reported in the Mail on Sunday, was condemned by the mother of police constable Andrew Harper who was killed in the line of duty in Berkshire in 2019.

His mother, Debbie Adlam, told the newspaper that she considered the badge, which consists of a blue line stretched across a black background, to be a universal memorial.

London Pride 2023 1 / 10 London Pride 2023 SEI162434074.jpg London Pride 2023 AFP via Getty Images SEI162438308.jpg London Pride 2023 Getty Images SEI162440630.jpg London Pride 2023 REUTERS SEI162434990.jpg London Pride 2023 AFP via Getty Images SEI162437102.jpg London Pride 2023 PA SEI162437166.jpg London Pride 2023 Getty Images SEI162436018.jpg London Pride 2023 Getty Images SEI162434092.jpg Felipe Dantas and Win Vidal kiss as they take part in the 2023 Pride Parade in London REUTERS

Since we lost Andrew, we have considered the Thin Blue Line image to be a universal memorial to the loss of these officers, she said.

She added: It concerns me that there are those who want to take (the badge) away.

I hope that today is not the start of the end for the Thin Blue Line and all it means to us in the UK.

The paper reported that a Met commander ahead of Saturdays parade advised officers the symbol had been linked to anti-trans groups in the US.

No Thin Blue Line badges/patches are to be worn whilst policing this event, the commander is reported to have said.

These have been linked to far-right and anti-trans groups in the US and this years Pride is focusing very much on the trans community. This is non-negotiable and supervisors are expected to ensure this is adhered to please.

Asked about the reported ban, a Metropolitan Police spokesman said officers can only wear insignia associated with the National Police Memorial Day Trust, Help for Heroes and the Royal British Legion charities.

The Mets Dress Code Policy sets out the official uniform police officers must adhere to whilst serving the public without fear or favour, a spokesperson for the force said.

The policy has not changed. The policy makes exception for the work of the National Police Memorial Day Trust, Help for Heroes and the Royal British Legion charities and permits officers to wear their insignia whilst on duty.

Former home secretary Priti Patel condemned the reported ban, writing on Twitter that it was nonsense from vested interest groups imposing their false narratives and ludicrous demands on our hard-working officers.

In November 2022, the Mayor of Londons spokesperson said that the Metropolitan Police Service (MPS) Uniform & Appearance Board was reviewing the wearing of the badge to ensure the MPS approach remains consistent with other forces nationally.

The spokesperson said that the Thin Blue Line is commonly accepted as demonstrating camaraderie among the police.

The spokesperson added at the time: Subtle wearing of this imagery, eg: a Velcro patch or pin badge is not prohibited by the current MPS dress code.
T ributes have been paid to a true public servant of the highest integrity, Lord Bob Kerslake, after his family announced he has died.

The former head of the civil service, 68, died on Saturday after a short battle with cancer, his devastated sister Ros Kerslake CBE said in a post on social media on Sunday morning

Senior Labour Party figures including its leader Sir Keir Starmer, shadow health secretary Wes Streeting, former shadow chancellor John McDonnell and mayor of London Sadiq Khan were among those who paid their respects to the crossbench peer.

He was nominated for a peerage by David Cameron and ennobled following his retirement as permanent secretary at the Department for Communities and Local Government, with the peerage was conferred by the late Queen in 2015.

Lord Kerslake was also a chairman of Kings College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust in south London but he quit the role in 2017, warning that the health service could not continue staggering along under the current funding levels.

Announcing the news on Twitter, Ros Kerslake wrote: My brother Bob (Lord Robert Kerslake) died yesterday after a short battle with cancer. We are all devastated.

In another tweet, Eleanor Kerslake added: Unfortunately my wonderful dad Bob Kerslake died yesterday.

We are all devastated.

Dad had a few jobs in his time but the most important to him was being a truly fantastic husband, dad, brother, son and granddad.

https://twitter.com/SadiqKhan?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor

Im very sorry to learn that Bob Kerslake has died, Sir Keir tweeted on Sunday.

Bob was a talented public servant, utmost professional, and a good man.

He was rightly respected across Westminster for his experience and wisdom, and Im grateful for his recent contributions to the Labour Party.

Sincere condolences to his family.

Labour veteran Mr McDonnell tweeted: Just heard the terribly sad news Bob Kerslake has died.

Ive known Bob from when he was with us at the GLC (Greater London Council).

He was a true public servant of the highest integrity, dedicating his life to caring for people & tackling inequality wherever he found it. My condolences to his family.

Mr Streeting said his death was terribly sad news.

Bob was such a committed and decent public servant taken far too soon, he tweeted.

Deepest condolences to your family and all those who knew and loved him.

Mr Khan hailed him as a true public servant.

His kindness and commitment to improving our city and country will always be remembered, he added.

My thoughts are with his family and friends today.

Lord Kerslake also chaired the independent review into Greater Manchesters preparedness and response to the Manchester Arena bombing in 2017.
A man has been charged in connection with alleged threatening and abusive behaviour after transgender double rapist Isla Bryson claimed to have suffered abuse while in prison.

Bryson, from Clydebank, was jailed for eight years in February for raping two women.

The attacks were carried out in 2016 and 2019 while Bryson, who was born Adam Graham, was living as a man.

In a letter sent to the Sunday Mail, Bryson, who is in prison in Edinburgh, claimed: Im not doing too good because of abuse from the staff members, all because I am transgender, and other prisoners too.

This jail is full of transphobic people. The police are involved because of the abuse to do with my gender. People wont stop being transphobic.

A Police Scotland spokesman said: Around 11am on Thursday 8 June 2023, we received a report of a hate crime at HMP Edinburgh.

A 24-year-old man has been charged in connection with threatening and abusive behaviour. A report will be submitted to the Procurator Fiscal.

Brysons case sparked outrage after the rapist was initially kept in an all-female prison, forcing an intervention from the Scottish Government.

The then first minister, Nicola Sturgeon, told MSPs that this prisoner will not be incarcerated at Cornton Vale womens prison, with Bryson moved to the male prison estate.

Ms Sturgeon made clear at the time that there is no automatic right for a trans woman convicted of a crime to serve their sentence in a female prison.

Speaking in February she said that each case is subject to rigorous individual risk assessment in which the safety of other prisoners is paramount.

Afterwards it was announced that the Scottish Prison Service was carrying out a review of management of trans prisoners as part of its gender identity and gender reassignment policy review.

The Scottish Government confirmed in February that until the review and other work is complete, no transgender person in prison who has a history of violence against women will be moved from a male prison to the female prison estate.

In addition, newly convicted or remanded transgender prisoners will initially be placed in a prison in line with their sex at birth, it said.
T wo people were killed and 28 others left injured, including four children, in a mass shooting in the US city of Baltimore, Maryland on Sunday.

An 18-year-old woman and 20-year-old man were killed and three victims were still in critical condition Sunday morning, according to police in the city.

At least four victims were treated in the University of Maryland Medical Center Pediatric Emergency Department, the hospital said, without providing details on their ages.

The suspect or suspects remained at large on Sunday.

I want those who are responsible to hear me, and hear me very clearly," Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott told reporters at the scene.

We will not stop until we find you, and we will find you. Until then, I hope that every single breath you take, that you think about the lives that you took, think about the lives that you impacted here tonight."

The tragedy occurred at the start of the Fourth of July holiday weekend, when Americans typically gather for parades, barbecues and fireworks.

It began shortly after midnight at the Brooklyn Day block party in the Brooklyn Homes neighbourhood of Baltimore, which hundreds of people attended, local media reported.

A witness told TV station Fox 45 that they had heard 20 to 30 shots fired.

Nine people were transported from the scene to local hospitals, while 20 others affected walked into hospitals in the area, police said.

Pictures showed folding tables and plastic cups scattered around the scene, apparently left behind when people ran from the gunshots.

A witness, Lakell Nelson told the Associated Press there had been several false alarms of people mistaking the sounds of fireworks for gunfire earlier in the night while she was at the block party.

However, by the time she was getting to her car, the actual shooting began. The shots were just going on and on and on," she said.
R ussia has cancelled a major international air show because of drone security concerns, in a fresh embarassment for Putin.

The British Ministry of Defence said Russia would not be going ahead with MAKS, which the Kremlin uses to highlight Russias civil and military air tech, largely due to genuine security concerns.

Russian officials were scared of reputation damage caused by having fewer international attendees because of its ongoing invasion of Ukraine.

It comes after two apparent explosive drones allegedly targeted the Kremlin and were shot down in May.

In its latest briefing, the MoD said: The war has been exceptionally challenging for Russias aerospace community.

The sector is struggling under international sanctions; highly trained specialists are being encouraged to serve as infantry in the Roscosmos space agencys own militia.

The MoD also said a top Russian general, Commander in Chief of the Aerospace Forces, Sergei Surovikin, has not been seen in public since the abortive mutiny by Wagner Group last month.

Surovikin had served as a point of contact with the Russian Ministry of Defence.

Reports claim he may have been arrested for having pre-knowledge of the Wagner mutiny.

But it is not clear whether Surovikin faces any charges or whether he is being held, and the US White House and the Kremlin have not commented.

Many analysts believe the mutiny has weakened Putin because he first announced that Wagner would face harsh repercussions, only to later say that the groups forces would not face prosecution.

The mercenary groups leader Yevgeny Prigozhin was also allowed to leave Russia for Belarus.

While cancelling its own air show for fear of drone attacks, Russia separately launched drone attack early on Sunday on Kyiv. It was the first such attack in 12 days.

All of the Iranian-made Shahed exploding drones were detected and shot down, according to Serhii Popko, the head of the Kyiv city administration. One person was wounded due to falling debris, he said.
U krainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba has warned European nations that failing to make Ukraine a Nato member would be a suicidal mistake.

Nato allies will gather on July 11-12 in Vilnius, Lithuania, for their annual summit, where Ukrainian membership will be one of the main talking points.

The UK, US and France have all signalled their willingness to allow Ukraine to join Nato.

Dmytro Kuleba, the Ukrainian Foreign Minister, has urged allies to allow Ukraine to become a member of the international military alliance as soon as possible.

After the war ends, it will be suicidal for Europe not to accept Ukraine into Nato because it will mean that the option of  war will remain open, Mr Kuleba told Axel Springer in an interview on Friday in Kyiv.

The only way to shut the door for the Russian aggression against Europe and Euro Atlantic space as a whole is to take Ukraine in Nato, because Russia will not dare to repeat this experience again, he added.

Mr Kuleba warned against an outcome similar to the 2008 Nato summit in Bucharest, when Berlin and Paris rejected Nato membership for Ukraine and Georgia.

Do not repeat the mistake Chancellor Merkel made in Bucharest in 2008 when she fiercely opposed any progress towards Ukraines Nato membership, he said.

This decision opened the door for Putin to invade Georgia and then to continue his destabilizing efforts in the region, and then eventually illegally annexing Crimea, Kuleba said. Because if Ukraine was accepted in Nato by 2014, there would not [have been] the illegal annexation of Crimea. It would not be war in Donbas, there would not be this large-scale invasion, he said.

It comes after the UKs foreign secretary James Cleverly said Britain will support Ukraine in securing fast-track membership of Nato.

Countries aspiring to join Nato must set out a membership action plan, as part of a process agreed in 1999.

The process can take decades and involves annual submissions to the defensive alliance on the candidate nations economic and military strength, as well as evidence of democratic reforms.

Mr Cleverly has indicated that the UK would be happy to bypass the process altogether to fast-track Nato membership for Ukraine.
K ate Garraway has marvelled at her husband Derek Drapers determination to watch her collect an MBE from the Prince of Wales at Windsor Castle.

The Good Morning Britain presenter was recognised in the 2022 New Year Honours for her services to broadcasting, journalism and charity  and received the award from William this week with Draper watching from a wheelchair nearby.

Former political adviser Draper, 55, fell seriously ill with Covid-19 in March 2020, which left him with long-lasting damage to his organs and needing daily care.

Posting on Instagram, Garraway said: Well what a week, that started with Derek in hospital and ended with Derek in hospital, but with this extraordinary day in the middle.

I am so incredibly moved and humbled by the whole experience.

So many of you have sent so many lovely messages, including the lady who stopped her car a few minutes ago outside our house to say I know what youre going through, and I know how much that moment meant and I am a nurse.

It was so wonderful to see Dereks determination to be there, so kind of the Prince of Wales, to make it special for him and to recognise the work of Jake our incredible carer, who represents all those who make Dereks daily life possible, and of course my long-suffering, Mum and Dad!

Garraway said William made everyone receiving honours feel as special as they are and described the ceremony as humbling to meet all the others much more deserving than myself.

Pictures from the day showed Draper in a blue suit and striped tie, while his wife wore a cream dress with a bejewelled collar and a matching headpiece for the investiture ceremony.

The 56-year-old thanked sustainable British designer Lisa Redman for loaning her a fit for a king dress and Miss Bs Millinery for her bespoke matching hat.

Garraway added: Tomorrow Derek is back in hospital and of course the daily struggles go on  but the fact that he was able to be part of Wednesday is to be treasured and cant thank everyone in the @NHS and all around him who love him for making it possible.

The TV presenter has since made two documentaries detailing her familys life as Draper battles the long-term effects of coronavirus, with both programmes winning National Television Awards in the authored documentary category.

She has also written two books  The Power Of Hope: The Moving Memoir From ITVs Kate Garraway and The Strength Of Love: Embracing An Uncertain Future With Resilience And Optimism  following Drapers health struggle.

There are plans for her to front a third documentary exposing the broken care system.
L ove Island fans everywhere are mourning the split of one of the shows most beloved couples, Ekin-Su Culculoglu and Davide Sanclimenti.

In an announcement on his Instagram story in June, Sanclimenti said that the pair were no longer together but that he wished his former partner nothing but the best. Although Culculoglu is yet to address the break-up publicly.

While it wasnt meant to be for the duo, it doesnt mean that all romances borne from the famous Hidden Hills Villa have been mugged off once back on home soil.

Infact, among the 12-strong couples that are still together theres been four weddings, and eight babies, with hopefully a few more on the way as these couples continued to prove theyre each others type on paper.

Kai Fagan and Sanam Harrinanan, Winter 2023

Kai was first coupled with Tanyel and then Olivia, before he met Sanam in Casa Amor where he decided to recouple with her.

And their romance proved to be a winning combination as they were crowned the winners of Winter Love Island 2023.

In his exit interview, Kai said: As soon as we get out of here, thats when even more effort starts. You can really value someones time and effort when you have to put in the time and effort. Thats what I am looking forward to.

Shaq Muhammad and Tanya Manhenga, winter 2023

After first admitting that they loved one another during the Winter edition, Shaq and Tanya are still going strong outside the villa.

The pair have enjoyed several milestones since leaving the ITV2 villa including idyllic breakaways to Malta and Spain.

In June, the couple confirmed that they were taking the next step in their relationship and were viewing properties in Manchester after five months of commuting between London and Liverpool.

Jessie Wynter and Will Young, Winter 2023

Jessie turned farmer Wills head immediately when she entered in the villa alongside fellow Aussie bombshell Aaron.

While Aaron appearance was a flash in the pan, Jessie and Wills romance was not as they survived Casa Amor (just about) and even told professed their love for one another.

Although they didnt make it to the final, they left the Villa as boyfriend and girlfriend. Since then, they have enjoyed trips to the States and her native Oz to introduce Will to her parents.

Indiyah Polack and Dami Hope, 2022

Who could forget the rollercoaster Indiyah and Dami took viewers on in 2022?

After the self-proclaimed heartbreakers rekindled their romance in the villa following an explosive Casa Amor, theyve proved their relationship is a match made in heaven.

Their flame is burning so brightly that Dami has swapped his native Dublin for London and moved in with the Aftersun contributor.

Tasha Ghouri and Andrew Le Page, 2022

When Andrew told Tasha he licked [Cocos] t** or whatever on national TV, I dont think anyone of us would believe that this pairing would last the distance.

Yet, they have rightly proved the naysayers wrong.

Although at the time Andrews actions nearly split the couple apart, they decided to let the past by the past and are happier than ever a year after leaving the villa.

Eva Zapico and Nas Majeed, Winter 2020

Eva and Nas are possibly one of Love Islands most underrated couple after meeting in Casa Amour during series six of the show.

The pair were inseparable in the villa and continue to be now as they regularly update fans on their relationship on social media.

Both have said that if it werent for the Villa their paths would have never crossed.

Molly Smith and Callum Jones, Winter 2020

Callum brought the drama on the first ever Winter Love Island when he coupled up with Molly at Casa Amor behind Shaughna Phillipss back.

Despite Shaughna being the peoples princess that season, Callums infatuation for Molly was clear to see so much so the public kept them in until just before the finals.

The couple have proved that their Villa romance wasnt a fleeting moment two and half years on as they now live together in Manchester.

Molly-Mae Hague and Tommy Fury, 2019

Molly-Mae and Tommy are perhaps one of the most notable couples to have ever come from the ITV2 series.

The lovebirds are still together four years after their series ended and have even welcomed their first child together, a baby girl named Bambi.

Camilla Thurlow and Jamie Jewitt, 2017

Camilla was dealt a terrible hand when she first entered the Villa in 2017, having initially been paired up with Jonny Mitchell, who memorably told her he would feel emasculated if a girl paid on a date.

After a few more failed connections, viewers were thrilled when model Jamie Jewitt came in to sweep her off of her feet so much so they wed in 2021 and have welcomed two daughters, Nell and Nora.

Jess Shears and Dom Lever, 2017

Another couple to stand the test of time is Jess Shears and Dom Lever, who paired up early on in the 2017 installment.

Soon after Shears entered the Villa as a bombshell, she was voted out by her fellow Islanders. Although heartbroken by her departure, Dom stayed in the villa for another week before he was eliminated.

Despite fans doubts, the couple married live on Good Morning Britain in February 2018, before they officially tying the knot in Mykonos in October that same year.

They are also now parents to two sons.

Cara Delahoyde and Nathan Massey, 2016

Cara and Nathan won series two of the dating series but briefly split a year after being crowned Love Island winners.

However, the chemistry between the couple was too strong to deny and they rekindled their relationship just before welcoming their first child, Freddie-George, together in 2017.

After their sons birth, Nathan got down on bended knee at the original villa the show was filmed in 2018. They married that same year  and have since added a daughter, Delilah, to their brood in 2020.

Olivia Buckland and Alex Bowen, 2016

Alex and Olivia are one of the shows biggest success stories having met back in 2016 during series two.

Although they didnt win, they did become the first ever Love Island couple to walk down the aisle, just two years after their Villa stint in 2018.

Now living in Essex, the couple have since welcomed their first child a baby boy named Abel Jacob Bowen back in 2022.
(Bloomberg) -- Potential Wagner Group militia camps in Belarus prompted alarm in Poland, which said it will send 500 extra police officers to its border with the Russian ally. In St. Petersburg, Russian authorities took computers and servers at a company linked to Wagner leader Yevgeny Prigozhin as the Kremlin seeks to take over his social-media and mercenary empire, the Wall Street Journal reported.

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Prigozhins private jet reportedly landed in Minsk on Saturday from St. Petersburg, according to the Institute for the Study of War, which cited public flight tracking data. Satellite images show hundreds of large tents set up over the past week in Belarus about 150 miles (240 kilometers) north of the Ukrainian border, according to Associated Press.

Ukrainian forces advanced toward Bakhmut, a military spokesman said. Russia is likely pulling forces from elsewhere toward Bakhmut, according to ISW.

Ukraines air defense said it downed eight Shahed drones and three Kalibr missiles launched by Russia overnight, including the first attempted strike on Kyiv in almost two weeks. Zelenskiy visited Odesa on Sunday to review naval capabilities.

The Kremlins invasion of Ukraine has had a corrosive effect on President Vladimir Putins regime and Russian society, Central Intelligence Agency Director William Burns said Saturday. Disaffection with the war will continue to gnaw away at the Russian leadership, the CIA head said in a lecture at Britains Ditchley Foundation.

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LOS ANGELES, July 2, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Wayfinder Family Services' board of directors has appointed Jay Allen as president and chief executive officer of the organization. Allen will assume the CEO role in addition to his current duties as president.

Allen has over 30 years of experience in nonprofit and human services leadership.

"Jay leads with heart and integrity, and I am thrilled that someone with his vision and commitment will steer Wayfinder into the organization's next phase," said Miki Jordan, Wayfinder's outgoing CEO. Jordan is retiring after 17 years of leading the organization.

Allen has dedicated more than 20 years to Wayfinder, joining in 2000 as vice president of programs. With more than 30 years of experience in nonprofit and human services leadership, he has a strong vision for Wayfinder's future. Allen shared three things he would like to accomplish as CEO:

I look forward to the day when each of Wayfinder's clients has equal access to health and well-being, educational success, economic opportunity, and safety and resilience. These four areas are the building blocks of human potential and well-being. The result will be a healthy and equitable society. We are expanding prevention services in the communities we serve. Rather than play catch-up downstream, upstream interventions can avert the need for crisis services. Also, early implementation of our whole-person approach to care will tackle the social drivers of healththe underlying social and physical conditionsthat impact the health and well-being of individuals, families and communities. I want to continue to mentor great leaders. Wayfinder's employees are outstanding, and we train some of the best leaders in the social services sector. While we hope that they all stay at Wayfinder, many of our former employees are now in charge of programs and organizations throughout the state, leading change and continuing Wayfinder's impact.

Prior to joining Wayfinder, Allen was executive director of ResCare California, which serves children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities in more than 30 sites throughout Northern California. Also, he led a division of programs serving individuals with developmental disabilities at the Fernald Center in Massachusetts.

Allen, who has a bachelor's degree in business management from Lesley University and a master's in health care administration from Framingham State University, received the Massachusetts Governor's Pride in Performance Award to recognize his participation in the development of an innovative program model for service to people with disabilities. He is a prominent speaker and trainer on topics including effective leadership, increasing influence, successful partnerships and mergers, innovative communications and superior quality management. In addition, he is a successful public-policy advocate and recently chaired the California Agencies for the Blind and Visually Impaired.

About Wayfinder Family Services

Formerly known as Junior Blind, Wayfinder Family Services is the place to turn for people facing the greatest challenges. The organization provides expert, individualized support and services to children, youth, adults and familiesfrom people with vision loss and developmental disabilities to children in need of temporary shelter, foster care and adoption. In addition, he is a successful public-policy advocate and was a longtime chair of the California Agencies for the Blind and Visually Impaired.

Wayfinder Family Services logo (PRNewsfoto/Wayfinder Family Services)

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SOURCE Wayfinder Family Services
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EAST ST. LOUIS  Land was flat and plentiful. Cheap coal was just up the hill. Low-wage workers were easy to find.

Once a quiet ferry landing on the east bank of the Mississippi River, this town burst with growth in the late 19th Century. Industrialists built sprawling factories across the formerly swampy expanse of the American Bottom. Workers lived in drab houses nearby. It was a gritty town, but there was plenty of work.

East St. Louis, briefly called Illinoistown after its incorporation in 1859, was home to only 5,600 people in 1870. Then came the National Stockyard in 1873 and the Eads Bridge one year later. The city became a tangle of 22 railroads connecting St. Louis to the north, east and south.

By 1910, with 58,000 residents, the city and environs were home to many industries that burned mountains of sooty coal from nearby Illinois mines. The big payrolls included Aluminum Ore Co., American Steel Foundry, Republic Iron & Steel, Obear Nester Glass and Elliot Frog & Switch (a frog was part of a railroad switch).

Many of the factories were built just beyond the city limit to avoid municipal taxes, which helped keep city services shoddy and corrupt.

The adjoining town of National City was home to the stockyards and packing houses, including Armour and Swift. It handled nearly 5 million pigs annually and was the nations biggest market for horses and mules.

Read the Post-Dispatch coverage of the East St. Louis riot The accounts hold back nothing in terms of graphic detail and gore. Even today, this reporting must run with a disclaimer cautioning readers t

World War I created a bonanza for the draft-animal trade. It made American industry hum. And it aggravated social conflict that exploded in shocking violence in summer 1917.

Thousands of black people from the South moved north to work in war factories. East St. Louis black population, 6,000 strong in 1910, nearly doubled by 1917.

That spring, the largely white workforce at Aluminum Ore, 32nd and Missouri avenues, went on strike. Management hired strikebreakers, both black and white. Embittered union leaders remembered black faces, and they demanded that City Hall get rid of the newcomers.

Tension already was raw when white men in a Ford shot into black homes on the night of July 1. Armed black men gathered at Bond Avenue and 10th Street and fired onto an oncoming Ford, killing two people who turned out to be police officers arriving to investigate.

The next morning, whites poured from a tense meeting in the Labor Temple downtown and began beating and killing blacks.

Rampaging white men used guns, rocks, pipes and nooses. White women egged them on, sometimes taking part. Rioters set fires in black neighborhoods and torched the Broadway Opera House on the false tale that blacks were hiding there.

Many fled to St. Louis across the Eads and Municipal (MacArthur) bridges. East St. Louis police stood by or joined the carnage. Illinois National Guard soldiers who were hustled to town did little to protect people until late in the day.

On July 3, the Post-Dispatch ran a harrowing account by Carlos F. Hurd, the reporter who scooped the world with interviews of Titanic survivors five years before. Hurd wrote that he witnessed the massacre of helpless negroes on streets where a black skin was a death warrant.

More than 300 homes and businesses were burned. The local investigation was inept, so its hard to know the full scope of the carnage. The official death count was 39 blacks and nine whites, but the toll probably was closer to 100.

Factories begged black workers to return, but many didnt. When schools reopened, black enrollment was down by more than half. A lengthy congressional investigation, reporting one year later, described the riot as savagery.

Lena Cook sees her family murdered, testifies against killers

Lena Cook and her family were taking a streetcar home to St. Louis from a fishing outing in Illinois. The car reached downtown East St. Louis as angry whites were on the rampage.

Her husband, Edward, and her son, Lurizza Beard, 14, were pulled from the streetcar and shot to death. A white bystander, hardware merchant William Keyser, also was killed, probably by the same shot that passed through Lurizza.

St. Clair County authorities eventually charged more than 140 people, most of them white and including police officers and East St. Louis Mayor Fred Mollman. Indictments against the officers were "lost," and the charge against the mayor was dropped.

But 21 people were convicted of serious crimes, including two white men in the murder of Keyser. Those verdicts came after the brave testimony of Lena Cook, who never wavered against racist cross-examination.

Newspaper files have no mention of verdicts in the murders of Cook's husband and son.

St. Louis official opens city shelter to fleeing families

There were few heroes in the East St. Louis riot. One man who tried to help was Louis Aloe, president of the St. Louis Board of Aldermen.

East St. Louis Mayor Fred Mollman cowered in his office during the carnage. Illinois National Guard Col. Stephen Tripp found time to step out for lunch.

Thousands of blacks fled to St. Louis, where Aloe was filling in for Mayor Henry Kiel. Aloe opened the city's Municipal Lodging House, a homeless shelter across 12th Street (Tucker Boulevard) from City Hall, and approved emergency spending for food.

For the next week, the Lodging House provided overnight shelter to about 700 men, women and children, and fed more than 7,500. The local Red Cross assisted. Refugees, including at least one man with a gunshot wound in his back, were treated at City Hospital.

In 1923, Aloe was a driving force in an $87 million city bond issue that included money for clearing land along Market Street. He is namesake of Aloe Plaza, across from Union Station. His widow, Edith, donated money for the "Meeting of the Waters" fountain.

Louis Aloe died in 1929 and is buried in Mount Sinai Cemetery.

Photos from the archive: The 1917 East St. Louis race riots East St. Louis riot, 1917 East St. Louis race riot: victim Flames near East St. Louis city library Fires from riots, as seen from Eads Bridge Refugees from the 1917 East St. Louis race riot East St. Louis residents flee the city in 1917 Refugees gather in St. Louis shelter 1917 East St. Louis race riot, destruction Narcis Gurley, victim of East St. Louis race riot Mineola McGee, victim of East St. Louis race riot Collinsville Avenue in East St. Louis, 1919 Congressional committee New York silent protest march after East St. Louis race riot ~~ VERTICAL GALLERY: HIDE TITLES, ENLARGE TYPE ~~
Illustration by Mitchell Preffer for Decrypt

It was a relatively quiet week in the cryptoverse. The most significant bit of adoption news came from Buckingham Palace on Thursday when British King Charles signed his assent to a reform bill that now recognizes crypto trading as a regulated activity. Similarly, European parliamentarians announced their own crypto-focused regulatory reforms.

These were hardly discussed on Twitter, though. More attention was given to Apples removal of decentralized social networking app Damus from the App Store. Apple had given Damus a fortnight to remove its Bitcoin tipping feature (via the Layer 2 Lightning Network) and bring the app into compliance by integrating it with Apples own in-house payments mechanism.

On Monday, Damus tweeted that it had updated its app to bring it into compliance, yet was still removed from the store.

Looks like we are getting removed from the appstore even after updating our app to make it clear that no digital content is getting unlocked when users are tipped. Users are only ever tipped after posts are made, the idea that content is being sold is nonsense. We will be filing pic.twitter.com/Su945kE37v  Damus (@damusapp) June 26, 2023

The following day, Bitcoin-loving Block CEO Jack Dorsey criticized Apple for encroaching on users and creators financial freedom. Coinbase CEO Brian Armstrong supported his argument.

It's really crazy that Apple will unilaterally block you from running the software you want on your own device. One of the most disrespectful parts of their culture, and it's damaging to their brand. https://t.co/n1Mo9jPBzX  Brian Armstrong  (@brian_armstrong) June 27, 2023

Crypto journalist Ekin Genc shared a chart on Monday highlighting the explosive growth of Ethereum staking over the last two and a half years.

staked eth now exceeds eth on centralised exchanges pic.twitter.com/GYIt9dq3om  ekin (@eking0x) June 26, 2023

Crypto custodian and fintech infrastructure company Prime Trust LLC landed in hot water with Nevadas Financial Institutions Division, according to Crypto Twitter news account @tier10k. The allegations are pretty damning.

FID alleged Prime Trust lost access to legacy wallets in 2021 and used customer assets to buy back crypto oh brother https://t.co/2rrW2jpmDr pic.twitter.com/zjebYPAkcA  db (@tier10k) June 27, 2023

Solana co-founder and Chief Operating Officer Raj Gokal got excited about Futuramas revival on Hulu. The new episodes appear to reference crypto and COVID. How very zeitgeisty!

YES! @aeyakovenko the universe is once again conspiring in our favor. and they have a crypto episode!! https://t.co/udjnCH6QwD  raj  (@rajgokal) June 27, 2023

That day, Brian Armstrong accused the U.S. of squandering an early lead in the adoption and regulation of crypto before reiterating his tireless call for sensible regulation. Coinbase is a publicly listed U.S. company, but it has recently been expanding into other territories due to the harsh domestic regulatory climate.

The U.S. is squandering an early lead, in part because SBF embarrassed some politicians and regulators who now want to look tough on crypto. Pretty much everyone else has moved on though, and FTX is not really discussed in UK, UAE, etc. The way to solve it is just get sensible https://t.co/8HAeWiB7Mi  Brian Armstrong  (@brian_armstrong) June 26, 2023

Presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr is trying to position himself as the crypto-friendly option. Looks like he has Michael Saylors vote.

The next President will be a pro-Bitcoin President.  Michael Saylor (@saylor) June 27, 2023

Speaking of Bitcoin believers, if youve been wondering what MicroStrategys chairman has been up to lately, then wonder no more. Hes still Buying More Bitcoin.

MicroStrategy has acquired an additional 12,333 BTC for ~$347.0 million at an average price of $28,136 per #bitcoin. As of 6/27/23 @MicroStrategy hodls 152,333 $BTC acquired for ~$4.52 billion at an average price of $29,668 per bitcoin. $MSTR https://t.co/joHo1gEnR0  Michael Saylor (@saylor) June 28, 2023

Bloomberg ETF expert Eric Balchunas explained how ARK Invests amended proposal to the SEC for a Bitcoin spot ETF has given the company a head start on BlackRock. BlackRock is the worlds largest asset management company, stewarding a whopping $9 trillion in assets. Of the 576 ETF applications it has made to the SEC, 575 of them have been approved to date, so it makes sense that other ETF-hungry firms are looking at BlackRocks filing for tips for their own.

JUST IN: ARK has amended their 19b-4 for spot bitcoin ETF to include a surveillance sharing agreement bt CBOE and a crypto exchange (likely Coinbase), which makes their's like BlackRock's filing now, and puts them in pole position to be approved first bc they filed first. pic.twitter.com/P8PCmPdhln  Eric Balchunas (@EricBalchunas) June 28, 2023

Market data from Kaiko suggests that Bitcoins correlation with tech equities has hit a three-year low.

#Bitcoins correlation with the tech-heavy Nasdaq collapsed to just 3% in June, hitting its lowest level in nearly three years. pic.twitter.com/BUbijQiVv9  Kaiko (@KaikoData) June 29, 2023

Finally, self-proclaimed Internet Detective Exposing Scams Coffeezilla jumped on a bit of content by notorious influencer/scammer Logan Paul.

Hey Logan, was promising $1.8 million in refunds to CryptoZoo victims, and 6 months later not paying "another masterclass in marketing"? Asking for all the people who got scammed by you and the criminals you hired. https://t.co/wRS4yE24Jb  Coffeezilla (@coffeebreak_YT) June 29, 2023

Paul did not respond.
EXPANDING

TWM, Inc., an engineering and geospatial services firm with five offices in the St. Louis area, opened a tenth office in Decatur, Illinois.

GETTING BETTER

i3 Broadband added multi-gig tiers and price structures for internet services customers in the greater St. Louis area.

HELPING OUT

Delta Dental Institute invested more than $1.27 million to support oral health initiatives, educational programs and community outreach events through St. Louis-based Delta Dental of Missouri.

MILESTONE

OBATA celebrated its 75th year of providing corporate branding and creative services.

MORE BIZ

Our Local Wallpaper Studio partnered with artist and illustrator Mary Engelbreit to showcase The Mary Engelbreit x Our Local Wallpaper Studio collection of peel-and-stick wallpaper.

OPENING

The Staenberg Group opened House of Pain, a strength training gym and fitness center, in The District of St. Louis at:

17017 North Outer 40 Road

Ponce Health Sciences University celebrated the opening of its St. Louis campus at:

2351 Market Street

PROJECTS

St. Louis Community College hired PARIC as general contractor of a $44 million health sciences building at the Florissant Valley campus.
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Bilal Hill has been dead for more than two years, but his legacy just got a boost that could last another lifetime.

The former Columbia, Missouri man died in Charlotte, N.C., where he was living with his sister after a compassionate release from the Phelps County Jail.

Hill was fighting cancer at the time. The cancer was so bad in part because the healthcare provider at the jail ignored his symptoms for at least 80 days. After he died at the age of 43, a federal jury awarded his sister, Lady Maakia Charlene Smith, a massive $8.5 million verdict.

When I wrote about the verdict last year, Smith told me how hard it was to get anybody at the jail or its healthcare provider, Advanced Correctional Healthcare, to pay attention to Hills repeated pleas for help.

People are treated differently if they get outside care versus care inside the facility, Smith said then. They basically let him deteriorate and waste away for more than three months. He was in excruciating pain. The nurse and the doctor were very dismissive of his complaints. It was inhumane. Ive seen animals treated better than my brother did in jail.

Now, Smith is grateful the law firm that helped her obtain the verdict is growing its commitment to helping people. Last week, the Shook, Hardy & Bacon firm announced it was investing the fees from Hills case into a new, national pro-bono practice to advocate for incarcerated people who are mistreated.

The firm hired Houston attorney Michael L. Harrison to head up the new unit focused on civil rights and racial justice. Harrison is a former prosecutor who used to handle excessive force and corruption cases.

The firm wanted to do something that was meaningful, paying forward Bilal Hills legacy, Harrison told me in a telephone interview. Well be able to combine the means and trial experience of a big firm. These cases are not cheap.

On the day Harrison and I spoke, his firm was part of a team that filed a civil rights lawsuit in another case involving a person incarcerated in Missouri  a Black transgender woman who was placed in solitary confinement for more than six years, allegedly to protect her because she had HIV. The case, filed by the nonprofits MacArthur Justice Center and Lamda Legal, as well as Shook, Hardy & Bacon, is not connected to Harrisons new practice. But it highlights the many ways people who are incarcerated have to fight for healthcare and humane treatment.

The horrors (she) experienced throughout her prolonged time in solitary confinement ... caused her to experience depression, hopelessness, severe anxiety, and feeling as if she were going insane and reaching a mental breaking point, the lawsuit alleges. The prolonged period of time of over six years and the extreme conditions of confinement drove her to physically self-harm including attempts to take her own life.

During Hills time in jail, his sister had to fight over and over again for him to get help. She worried he was just going to curl up on the floor of his cell and die, with nobody ever knowing what ailed him.

Im positive there are other families and detainees that are dealing with the same types of issues, Smith says.

Thats why shes glad her attorneys are committed to seeking justice and pursuing more cases like the one for Hill. Im hoping that it will bring more awareness to what goes on behind prison walls.

The effort should shine more light on the injustices that happen in Americas prisons and jails. While nonprofits such as the MacArthur Justice Center and the ACLU regularly bring such cases, Harrison hopes the dedicated resources of a national law firm can help make a difference.

The first challenge in such cases is often to open the eyes  and hearts  of the public. Most of the folks who are incarcerated are supposed to re-enter society someday, not die behind bars because of the lack of health care or inhumane treatment.

The general public can be sort of ambivalent to this segment of society, Harrison says.

His job now is to use the courts to remind officials and taxpayers that people like Hill deserve treatment for their cancers. That people with HIV dont deserve to confined and neglected for years. And that serving time for most crimes shouldnt result in a death sentence issued not by a judge or jury, but by government officials who turn their backs on humanity.
In the midst of the storms that punished St. Louis Saturday afternoon and night, a woman sat in her car that had been crushed by a tree. She was dying.

Neighbors tried calling 911. They called for 30 minutes, they said, but could not get through. The 33-year-old woman, who had recently moved to a new apartment in The Grove district, died in her parked car behind the apartment building.

On Monday, police identified the victim as Katherine Coen of the 4100 block of Manchester.

This is not a new problem. This has been going on for years. When you call 911, you almost never get through. You either get a busy signal or you get put on hold, said Helen Petty, who owns the Chopshop hair salon on the other side of the alley.

Petty said her employees called her around 4:10 p.m. Saturday to say water was coming in and that they had lost power at the shop, which faces Manchester Avenue. The tree that took out the stores power was also the one that hit the womans car, Petty said.

By the time Petty arrived at 4:45 p.m., the fire department was working to get the woman out of the car. But neighbors told her they had tried frantically to reach the emergency number for a half-hour before that, to no avail.

One man who runs a neighboring restaurant told her that the victim was responsive when he and others began calling 911. That man was not available for comment Saturday or Sunday.

The city has had problems with its 911 system for years.

Police records obtained by the Post-Dispatch in 2021 revealed that the St. Louis police departments 911 dispatchers were delayed in responding to nearly one-third of all emergency calls made in the city in 2020. Staffing shortages were blamed, and interviews with former and current employees showed they believed the department did not act on memos calling for the hiring and retention of workers to be prioritized.

Since then, the problems have only worsened.

In 2021, St. Louis Mayor Tishaura O. Jones pledged to reduce 911 delays in the city. But in 2022, 40% of callers were put on hold for at least 10 seconds, and some waited 10 minutes or more.

The minimum industry standard, as established by the National Emergency Number Association is for 90% of 911 calls to be answered within 10 seconds.

The last time I checked, it was close to 50% of the 911 calls were put on hold, said Alderwoman Cara Spencer. Its truly, truly terrifying.

Theyve been kicking the can on this issue for far too long.

Officials in the mayors office and the Department of Public Safety did not answer requests for comment.

Spencer said the city should combine 911 systems for police, fire and emergency medical services, so that all three types of calls can go into the same system in the same central office. And the office needs to be fully staffed, she said.

There are times when you have one or two dispatchers for entire half of the city, and that is truly inadequate, she said.

It is nothing short of terrifying when you call 911 and you get a recorded message saying All operators are busy, please stay on the line. Someone will be with you shortly, she said. I know it by heart.

Spencer said she has nothing but sympathy for the 911 dispatchers who work in a very stressful environment. They do the best they can, she said, but the work can be overwhelming.

Petty said, I place the blame with our governor who just signed a line item veto to fund the 911 system in our area.

On Friday, Missouri Gov. Mike Parson cut $23 million from the state budget that would have paid for new police and 911 facilities in St. Louis.

With this budget, our administration has done the right thing  the conservative thing  to make strategic investments and maintain responsible spending, he said at the time.
OLD MONROE  A few years ago, Joe Vehige and his wife moved back to the farm where he grew up. They enjoy a nice buffer in retirement from all the population growth hitting Lincoln and St. Charles counties.

A long gravel driveway leads to a front porch cooled by breezes blowing across rows of corn. Childhood memories, like learning how to drive a tractor at 7 or 8 years old, rest in each direction.

State Highway 79 is the only smudge in the idyllic canvas.

Of course, its much busier than when I was a kid, said Vehige, 69.

Like many others interviewed last week, he and his wife said theyve been run off the busy two-lane highway. At home, they also have a glimpse of the traffic as it crosses the Cuivre River Bridge. On June 23, they heard a loud boom coming from there that could have been mistaken for late Friday afternoon fireworks  if only it wasnt followed by squealing tires.

Soon, emergency responders did their work and traffic in both directions was rerouted for four hours.

We knew it had to be something drastic, Vehige said.

The boom was the sound of a 2002 F-250 pickup truck pulling a trailer full of tree debris colliding with a 2018 Honda Civic. According to a preliminary investigation by the Missouri State Highway Patrol, a front tire blew on the northbound truck, causing it to plow into oncoming traffic.

Jessica M. Hecht, 31, of Old Monroe, was in the Honda. She was pronounced dead at the scene.

A more thorough crash reconstruction is underway, but at this point officials said they dont anticipate filing charges. There were no obvious signs of impairment involved.

Hes pretty upset, Chris Blevins, chief of the Old Monroe Fire Protection District, said of the 36-year-old pickup driver from Elsberry who walked away from the crash. He took a young kids life. No fault of his own. It was just an accident.

There have been an alarming number of accidents on Highway 79, particularly near Old Monroe. According to a Post-Dispatch analysis, nine people were killed within the same half-mile stretch of the highway between the Cuivre River Bridge and the Highway C interchange to town since September 2017. Five of the six fatal crashes were head-on collisions; three happened on the bridge. Four of the nine dead were teenage girls; one victim was an elderly man.

In addition to the latest crash, these are the other fatal incidents within the half-mile area:

 Approaching midnight on April 29, a 2016 Chevrolet Impala full of teenagers struck an oncoming 2022 Hyundai Elantra while trying to pass another vehicle. The southbound Impala caught fire. Its 16-year-old driver, of Wright City, and two of her three passengers, 15- and 16-year-old girls from OFallon, Missouri, died at the scene. Their names have not been released because they are juveniles. The driver of the Hyundai, Racheal G. Neldon, 23, of Elsberry, also died.

Officials said the teenagers were coming home from a party. Lincoln County Coroner Dan Heavin said Wednesday that the case isnt finalized but that toxicology reports found elevated levels of alcohol in the three teens, not in Neldon.

Today, a roadside memorial, including a large pink cross and a photo of one of the girls, marks the location of the crash along a curve near the Highway C interchange.

 On June 29, 2021, Francis R. Biron, 83, of Troy, was northbound on a Harley-Davidson near the same spot when he veered off the right side of the highway around 11:20 a.m., then crossed back to the left and overturned. He was wearing a helmet.

 On Feb. 18, 2021, Roger M. Flerlage, 44, of Old Monroe, drove a 1998 Mazda Protege into an oncoming vehicle at 7:20 a.m. after losing control on the ice-covered road. He wasnt wearing a seat belt, according to the patrol. Nor was the other driver, who was flown by medical helicopter to the hospital with serious injuries.

 On Jan. 15, 2019, Zola A. Rodey, of Winfield, was caught up in a three-vehicle crash on the bridge on her 60th birthday. She was hit by an oncoming vehicle driven by Alonzo J. Cannon, who faced previous DWIs. He pleaded guilty to charges stemming from her death and is currently in prison.

 On Sept. 16, 2017, Zoe Marie Gratton, 17, was northbound in a 2005 Ford Focus around 2:50 a.m. when she crossed the center line. The driver of an oncoming 2016 Volkswagen Jetta tried to veer out of the way, the patrol said, but struck the front-left section of the Focus. Gratton died at the scene; the other driver survived.

Gratton was a high school senior from Farmington, coming back to the area where shed grown up to visit friends after work. Today, a pink envelope in a clear plastic bag to protect it from rain is tacked to a roadside cross in her name. The cross is planted near the south entrance of the Cuivre River Bridge, at the St. Charles County-Lincoln County line.

I feel like you never get over that loss, said Grattons mother, Virginia Hepperman, 45. She was such an intricate part of our family.

Thursday would have been her 23rd birthday.

She had a whole future ahead of her, like all of these kids did, she said.

Clocking 107 mph

The city of Old Monroe only has about 250 residents. Other people live in nearby Winfield, Foley and unincorporated Lincoln County. They often use Highway 79 as a main thoroughfare to jobs in St. Louis. Apart from commuters and trucking, some just want to have a good time.

Everybody loves the life out here, said Justin Garver, 29, a native. Heres the thing: The road is long and boring. Everybody has a lot of attitude with it.

Highway 79 used to be much slower when it came through the middle of Old Monroe. In 1987, a bypass was built to accommodate regional population growth. It killed much of downtown but provided a much bigger bridge over the Cuivre River and a higher speed limit.

Old Monroe police Chief Chuck Marsonette said the highway is unsafe partly because long straightaways from each direction feed into curves that drivers often dont slow down for. He said the department does the best it can with five part-time officers.

We lack the resources to be able to enforce these speed limits, which would increase safety and reduce injuries and deaths, Marsonette said.

In the past 18 months, he said, theyve written citations against two drivers going 107 and 103 mph in the 60 mph zone of the highway; 36 citations for driving in the 90s; and 63 in the 80s.

In addition to the nine people who died in the half-mile stretch of Highway 79 since 2017, many others perished down the roadway in both directions. Within 2 miles north, three crosses stand in the ditch; nothing marks the spot where one woman fatally struck a telephone pole beside a curve in the highway. To the south, four people have been killed on the highway since 2016 in the St. Paul area.

Every random person around Old Monroe seems to know somebody who has died on the highway.

My nephew was one of three, said Rick Schulte, 58, taking a break from loading trucks at a downtown feed store, recalling Justin Tidwell. The same exact spot that the girl (Hecht) got killed.

On Sept. 19, 2002, Tidwell, 20, was southbound in a Chevrolet S-10 pickup when he crossed the center line about 6:40 a.m. and collided with a 1993 Ford Taurus. Both vehicles were traveling close to the speed limit of 60 mph.

When they hit, their momentum equaled out, and they just stopped, a Highway Patrol spokesman told the Post-Dispatch at the time. It would have been like hitting a brick wall at 120 miles per hour.

In addition to Tidwell, of Old Monroe, both occupants of the Taurus died: William Harris, 45, of St. Peters, and Timothy Oster, 44, of St. Charles. None of them were wearing seat belts but officials said it likely wouldnt have mattered.

Last week, the Highway Patrol said it is aware of the dangers on Highway 79 near Old Monroe.

We do have that on our radar, as far as doing enforcement there, said Cpl. Dallas Thompson, a spokesman. There have been several crashes that resulted in fatalities.

Apart from the devastating toll on family and friends, some emergency responders are dealing with post-traumatic stress from the April 29 crash that killed three teenage girls and a young woman.

It still lingers with them and they are working their way through it, said Ray Antonacci, chief administrator of Lincoln County Ambulance District.

Not prioritized for funding

Blevins, the fire chief, said hes asked the Missouri Department of Transportation for lane improvements on Highway 79.

Their reply is they are always looking at it, he said. What are you looking at?

If it cant be turned into a four-lane highway, he said there should at least be center lanes and lighting for the Highway C overpass.

You wouldnt even know its there at 1 in the morning, he said.

Taylor Brune, a spokeswoman for MoDOT, said dividing Highway 79 and making it a four-lane isnt going to happen soon.

Although it was built to support additional lanes if needed, such a project has not been identified as a need by the areas regional planning commission and therefore not prioritized for funding, Brune said by email.

She said most of the highway by Highway C interchange  though not all  is striped no-passing because there are on-off ramps to Old Monroe. She said the agency also added center line rumbles in 2013 to provide additional warning to motorists.

That doesnt appear to be working well. Several people said theyve been run off the road by on-coming drivers.

Vehige and his wife, Jeanine, recalled narrowly missing a collision. An on-coming car passed in a straightaway. Another right behind it didnt get over in time and barreled right at them. Vehige steered for the shoulder in a 1991 Ford pickup. So did the other driver.

I went down into the ditch, said Joe Vehige, glad there was mud in the bottom to help slow them down.

Steve Gnade, 56, an insurance agent, said hes had to hit the shoulder at least four times in the past three years between Old Monroe and St. Paul.

They drive like its a four-lane highway, he said.

Jessica Hawkins, 44, town clerk, said defensive driving keeps her alive.

I cant tell you how many times Ive saved myself from a head-on collision, she said. They are passing on a double line.

_____
Who and where  Diane Burkard and Donna Greenwald, both of Manchester, at Sintra, the Palacio Nacional da Pena, outside of Lisbon, Portugal.

Contribute  Email your photo to stlpost@gmail.com. Include the full names of everyone in the photo, including where they are from and where you are standing in the photo. Also include your address and phone number. Please also tell us a little about the trip and a travel tip. Were looking for interesting, well-composed, well-lighted photos.
- First presentation of data from Phase 3 ASCEND study will feature pharmacokinetic results that indicate minimal systemic absorption of isotretinoin -

- Data to be presented at the Society for Pediatric Dermatologys Annual Meeting -

WARREN, NJ - (NewMediaWire) - June 20, 2023 - Timber Pharmaceuticals, Inc. ("Timber" or the Company) (NYSE American: TMBR), a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on the development and commercialization of treatments for rare and orphan dermatologic diseases, today announced that interim pharmacokinetic (PK) analyses from the Phase 3 ASCEND study indicate minimal systemic absorption of isotretinoin or its major metabolites in patients with moderate to severe forms of congenital ichthyosis (CI) who were treated with TMB-001 0.05% ointment. Full PK results will be presented during the Society for Pediatric Dermatologys Annual Meeting to be held July 13-16, 2023, in Asheville, North Carolina.

Many dermatologists are familiar with oral isotretinoin, but high-dose and chronic oral isotretinoin therapy required in the treatment of CI cannot be tolerated by many patients due to systemic toxicity, said Alan Mendelsohn, M.D., Chief Medical Officer of Timber. We are advancing innovative clinical research evaluating TMB-001, a topical isotretinoin formulated using our proprietary IPEG delivery system that enables targeted delivery to the epidermis and dermis with the potential to minimize systemic drug absorption, which we hope will translate into better safety and lower systemic toxicity while still maintaining high degrees of efficacy.

The Phase 3 ASCEND study (https://ichthyosistrial.com/about_ascend_study.htm) is an ongoing double-blind, vehicle-controlled randomized 12-week study followed by 12 weeks of open label treatment of patients who are greater than 6 years of age with moderate to severe X-linked recessive CI (XLRI) or autosomal recessive CI (ARCI). The primary endpoint is the difference in proportions of treated patients with 2-point Investigator's Global Assessment (IGA) scaling/fissuring score improvement from baseline at 12 weeks. A subset of patients is also participating in a 12-week open label Maximal Use Study (MuST) that includes the collection of PK data as well as safety and efficacy data.

The interim PK analyses include the first nine patients who completed 15 days of the MuST study. The results indicate minimal absorption of isotretinoin when TMB-001 0.05% is applied to 75-90% of the body surface area. The 9 subjects (7 ARCI, 2 XLRI; ages 12-62) demonstrated mean plasma concentrations (ng/mL) of isotretinoin at Day 14 of 4.83 (range: 1.46-16.59), 4-oxo-isotretinoin of 13.71 (6.52-47.86), tretinoin of 0.08 (0-0.66) and 4-oxo-tretinoin of 0.

The dry, thickened, and scaling skin that people living with these rare genetic keratinization disorders must deal with can be seriously debilitating, especially in the most severe cases of XLRI and ARCI, said Joyce M.C. Teng, M.D., Ph.D., Professor and Director of Pediatric Dermatology, Stanford University. If we can overcome toxicity challenges of oral treatment with a novel topical formulation of isotretinoin, we may be able to provide better care for our patients. These interim PK data are encouraging, especially when we compare the results to plasma isotretinoin concentrations that we typically see on the labels of oral therapies, which are as high as 862ng/mL with a single dose of 80mg of isotretinoin.

Timber has received both Breakthrough Therapy Designation and Fast Track Status from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for TMB-001.

About Timber Pharmaceuticals, Inc.

Timber Pharmaceuticals, Inc. is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on the development and commercialization of treatments for rare and orphan dermatologic diseases. The Company's investigational therapies have proven mechanisms-of-action backed by decades of clinical experience and well-established CMC (chemistry, manufacturing, and control) and safety profiles. The Company is initially focused on developing non-systemic treatments for rare dermatologic diseases including congenital ichthyosis (CI) and sclerotic skin diseases. For more information, visit www.timberpharma.com.

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 product development, clinical and regulatory timelines, market opportunity, competitive position, intellectual property rights, possible or assumed future results of operations, business strategies, potential growth opportunities and other statements 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 which may cause actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. Such factors include those set forth in the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2022, as well as other documents filed by the Company from time to time thereafter with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Prospective investors are cautioned not to place undue reliance on such forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date of this press release. The Company undertakes no obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

For more information, contact:

Timber Pharmaceuticals, Inc.

John Koconis

Chairman and Chief Executive Officer

[email protected]

Investor Relations:

Stephanie Prince

PCG Advisory

(646) 863-6341

[email protected]

Media Relations:

Adam Daley

Berry & Company Public Relations

(212) 253-8881

[email protected]
My Tooth Media has expanded their digital market services, now offering better services for dental practices who seek to gain local and national media exposure as a way to attract new patients and grow their businesses.

Marina Del Rey, California--(Newsfile Corp. - July 1, 2023) - Newly revised to include marketing solutions for pediatric dentists and orthodontists, the services from My Tooth Media aim to boost visibility for practices through the creation and distribution of multimedia content and branded news features.

More information can be found at https://mytoothmedia.clientcabin.com





Pediatric Dentist & Orthodontist Marketing Services Expanded By My Tooth Media



To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/8814/172141_37d84fd51401aa27_001full.jpg

For pediatric dentists and orthodontists who seek to grow their practices, the company's marketing solutions provide a pathway to get more media exposure through dynamic content, such as blogs, videos, and infographics, thereby reaching more prospective patients through a variety of media platforms.

A recent article published in the Journal of Mobile Information Systems shows that multimedia information, particularly video content, has a strong effect on consumer trust levels, explains the company. The study found that most prospective clients respond strongly to video marketing in terms of understanding information and relating emotionally to the service offered. Through video content and other tools, the multimedia marketing services from MTM help clients contact a broader audience and establish trust with potential patients. Founder, Damien Gallow, says, "We help you reach your best patients by crafting meaningful hyper-local ads and media coverage."

The agency's content marketing services are made possible through its connections with a wide range of digital platforms, with client practices receiving predictable coverage on a wide range of digital outlets.

Clients work with MTM to create a high-end, multimedia marketing plan that includes the publication of multiple content pieces over a set time frame.

Although exposure occurs at both local and national levels, the focus of the multimedia marketing packages is on the distribution of compelling, hyper-local content, meaning that a dental practice is more likely to be featured at the top of search results when patients look for dental services in a specific geographical area.

The agency will continue to expand its services to meet the marketing and branding needs of clients in the dental and health care industries.

Further details can be found at https://mytoothmedia.clientcabin.com/about

Contact Info:

Name: Damien Gallow

Email: [email protected]

Organization: DJG Global Investments, LLC DBA My Tooth Media

Address: 578 Washington Blvd Unit 203, Marina Del Rey, CA 90292, United States

Website: https://mytoothmedia.clientcabin.com

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/172141
XINJIANG , China , July 2, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Born in Urumqi, Northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region , writer Li Dong has long been enchanted with the historical culture of his birthplace.

The region was once a thoroughfare for the ancient Silk Road , a time when it was referred to as the "Western Regions," but now it is a major hub for modern China's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).

The popular history book 400 years of Western Regions, published earlier in 2023, was Li's gift to the region. The work focuses on the exchanges between the Han people and the ancient nomadic Xiongnu tribe.

Both sides of history

Examining the history of the region during the Han Dynasty (206BC-AD220), the book gives a detailed picture of 29 Han Dynasty emperors, 36 ancient kingdoms in the Western Regions such as the mysterious Loulan Kingdom and also 39 chanyu, an exclusive title for the tribal chiefs of the Xiongnu people.

Comprising five chapters such as "The Rise of Powerful Han" and "Dominating Xiongnu," Li's book maps out the Han-Xiongnu political relationship while also including the "subtle and always shifting attitudes" of the several small kingdoms caught between the two strong forces.

"The prosperity of the Central Plains sparked infinite longing among the Western Regions. The trade route expanded upon by [Han ambassador] Zhang Qian was under control of the Xiongnu people, who enslaved those small ancient kingdoms," Li told the Global Times.

Sun Yijun , an expert in Silk Road history, told the Global Times that the nomadic Xiongnu tribe, which originated from the Mongolian Plateau, had several "back and forth rivalries" with the Han Dynasty in the region.

While Li's book is similar to many other publications that touch upon "ancient Xinjiang ," Zhang Pan , the book's chief editor, told the Global Times that its narrative angle is unique as it puts "the stories of both the Han and Xiongnu people parallel to each other."

This design allows readers to see how the developments of the Central Plains had a "direct impact on the Western Region ."

"Many books would take the Han people's power as a main thread, but this one covers the Han, Xiongnu and Western Kingdoms' cultural characteristics and their different strategies for coping with each other," Zhang noted.

She emphasized that these "historical complexities" are an important part of depicting how the two sides' relationship changed from "hostile to integrated."

Although the book is based on rigorous historical research, Li categorizes his book as a "popular history" that aims to reach regular readers and tell stories from history that resonate today. Many of these real historical events reveal the Han people's generosity and belief in unity and harmony.

Li wrote about the story of a Han princess named Liu Jieyou. The princess' marriage to the leader of the Wusun Kingdom has been seen as contributing greatly to bringing the Han Dynasty and the Western Regions closer.

Li described the courage of the princess as part of the "Han spirit," adding that Han people, even in ancient times, have always held values such as "sacrificing oneself for righteousness" and "promoting world peace."

Ancient trade

In the book's preface, Tang Yongcai, a 90-year-old expert in Xinjiang culture and history, wrote how the Central Plains and the Western Regions mutually nurtured each other.

"Without the Central Plains, the Western Regions could never have prospered; without the Western Regions, the Central Plains would not have had a shield of safety," Tang noted.

Li also emphasized the ancient Silk Road's importance in establishing this mutual relationship.

Over 400 years of time, trade along the ancient Silk Road was "extensive and continuous," Sun told the Global Times. Led by imperial envoy Zhang Qian , Central Plains' products such as silk, ceramics and tea were introduced to the Western Regions.

Ma Shangwen, a cultural researcher, told the Global Times that trade not only contributed to economic prosperity for both sides, but also enhanced the "mutual cultural and people-to-people understanding" between the Central Plains and Western Regions.

In the book, Li writes about a special artwork discovered in Xinjiang - a brocade armband embroidered with the characters "Five stars rise in the East, benefitting China ."

The artifact refers to the ancient belief that when the five planets - Mercury, Venus, Mars, Saturn and Jupiter appear in the sky together they will bring victory to China . Ma told the Global Times that this was only one example of the many discoveries in Xinjiang that show how "social systems and beliefs" from the Central Plains had made their way to the Western Regions.

In the book's final chapter - "Peace, China's best contribution to the world" - Li wrote about how Zhang Qian's mission started with "military purpose" but ended up achieving far more culturally.

"Peace has never been begged for or given," Li noted, adding that China , as a country with the biggest population in the world, has the goal of safeguarding peace.

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/global-times-popular-history-book-unravels-complicated-history-of-exchanges-between-han-dynasty-xiongnu-tribe-301868579.html

SOURCE Global Times
(Reuters) - Israeli warplanes targeted a Syrian air defence battery from which an anti-aircraft missile was launched towards Israel, an Israeli military spokesman said early on Sunday.

The warplanes also attacked other targets in the area, while no casualties were reported from the Syrian missile, said the spokesman, Avichay Adraee.

(Reporting By Moaz Abd-Alaziz in Cairo; Editing by William Mallard)
FILE PHOTO: Migrants stand near the wall on Polish Belarusian border near Bialowieza, Poland May 28, 2023. Agnieszka Sadowska/Agencja Wyborcza.pl via REUTERS

WARSAW (Reuters) -Poland said on Sunday it will send 500 police to shore up security at its border with Belarus to cope with rising numbers of migrants crossing as well as any potential threats after the Wagner group of mercenaries relocates to Belarus.

"Due to the tense situation on the border with Belarus I have decided to bolster our forces with 500 Polish police officers from preventive and counter-terrorism units," Minister of Interior Mariusz Kaminski wrote on his Twitter account.

The police force would join 5,000 border guards and 2,000 soldiers in securing the border, he said.

Poland has accused Belarus of artificially creating a migrant crisis on the border since 2021 by flying in people from the Middle East and Africa and attempting to push them across the frontier.

The Polish Border Guard said on Sunday that 187 people tried to cross into Poland from Belarus illegally on Saturday, and numbers have been growing steadily in recent months, although they are well below levels seen in 2021.

A spokeswoman for Poland's Border Guard said that Polish patrols at the border have also faced more aggressive behaviour in the past two months as the number of migrants rose.

"The groups are more aggressive. There have been many attacks on Polish patrols. Seventeen vehicles have been damaged this year, of which 13 in June alone," Border Guard spokeswoman Anna Michalska said.

Deputy Minister Coordinator of Special Services Stanislaw Zaryn told Reuters the bigger security presence was also in response to the transfer of Wagner group mercenaries to Belarus.

Russian President Vladimir Putin's decision to offer troops from the private military company the choice of relocating to Belarus has led to fears among eastern NATO members that their presence will cause greater instability in the region.

"It is still a matter of analysis and hypotheses whether the Wagner group will engage in destabilising Poland and will also be active in coordinating the migration route," Zaryn told Reuters by phone.

"We assume the Wagners aren't going to Belarus to recuperate, but to carry out a mission. This mission could be aimed at Poland, but also against Lithuania or Ukraine," he added.

(Reporting by Karol BadohalEditing by David Goodman and Susan Fenton)
The recent Regency Pear Tree Blossom Pageant benefited Rikkis Refuge; guests and contestants donated pet food, supplies and treats to the nonprofit. This years theme was Spring Fling, and contestants competed in photo, fashion modeling and formal wear. Miss Spotsylvania Regency Stephani Burton emceed the event. Regency Pear Tree Blossom title winners include: Title winners will spend their year participating in events, parades and volunteering. The Miss Spotsylvania Regency pageant will be held Nov. 25. For more information, visit regencypageants.com.
(Reuters) - The ultra-nationalist Liberal Democratic Party of Russia (LDPR) is working on a bill that would temporarily ban the travel of close relatives of high-ranking officials to "unfriendly countries," the RIA state news agency reported on Sunday.

Russia considers all countries that have hit it with sanctions over its military campaign in Ukraine to be "unfriendly."

Citing a member of the Russian Duma, Sergei Karginov, RIA reported that restrictions may also affect, among others, law enforcement officers, judges, top managers of state corporations, and the board of directors of the Central Bank.

"Now, when Russia is forced to confront a group of Western countries led by the United States that provoked a conflict in Ukraine, such journeys ... are not only inadmissible, but also dangerous," RIA cited Karginov as saying.

Russia launched a full-scale invasion on Ukraine in February 2022, calling it a "special military operation" to demilitarise and denazify its neighbour. Kyiv and its allies call the war, in which thousands of people have been killed, an unprovoked aggression to grab land.

Despite its name, Russia's Liberal Democratic Party (LDPR) has since its founding in 1991 espoused a hardline, ultranationalist ideology, demanding Russia reconquer the countries of the former Soviet Union.

It was not immediately clear when the LDPR would bring the bill for consideration by the Duma, Russia's lower house of parliament.

(Reporting by Lidia Kelly in Melbourne; Editing by Simon Cameron-Moore)
One hundred and fifty years before Rep. George Santos was charged with a host of financial crimes, a former New York congressman, William Magear Boss Tweed, sat in one of the citys courtroom docks. Tweed was facing 55 charges of embezzlement of public funds, with each offense involving multiple counts.

When the jury found him guilty in November 1873, it was of 102 separate crimes, for which prosecutors pursued a 102-year sentence.

So many individual verdicts had to be returned that, as Kenneth D. Ackerman wrote in his biography Boss Tweed: The Corrupt Pol Who Conceived the Soul of Modern New York, the jury foreman had to hand the clerk a written formula to break down the specific items of the indictment. The conviction only added to the scandal that had engulfed Tweed, an enormously influential power broker in 19th-century New York.

But, despite those 102 counts, Tweed would make it out of prison soon enough, only to be jailed again  and then dramatically escape.

It had all started with humble beginnings. Born on Cherry Street in todays Lower East Side, Tweed left school at age 11 to work in his familys furniture-making business. As a young man, he joined the Americus Big Six volunteer fire company, infamous for decorating its pump wagon with tiger artwork and brawling with rivals when responding to blazes.

Elected as the crews foreman, the rotund, towering Tweed soon was approached by the Society of St. Tammany, otherwise known as Tammany Hall, the private group and Democratic political machine that provided shelter, jobs and food to New Yorks flow of immigrants.

After declining Tammanys first request for him to run as alderman on its behalf, Tweed accepted in 1851. He had witnessed vote-buying on the streets of New York during the 1844 presidential election, and decided to put his bookkeeping skills  taught to him by his father while working in his store  to good use.

Tweed was elected alderman for the Seventh Ward in New York in 1851 and won election to the House of Representatives the next year. Though he failed in his House reelection bid, by 1856 he had been elected as school commissioner, then a member of the New York County Board of Supervisors, before he was elected to the state Senate in 1867.

Tweeds soaring popularity was no accident: He had capitalized on the citys immigrant communities by selling citizenship documents, issued via complicit local judges, in return for a pledge to vote for him. By 1863, he was exempting workmen, police and fire crews from Civil War conscription or paying the $300 commutation clause.

His power soon grew further. In 1870, Tweed marshaled the Democratic majorities in the state legislature to usher in a new charter, one that specifically altered the governing structure of New York City and gave local representatives more autonomy over political appointments. Tweed thereafter installed friends into powerful positions, many of whom championed his industrious public image and civic achievements.

As a result, he became a recorded sponsor in the building of Central Park Zoo, the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Upper West Side, the American Museum of Natural History and the Brooklyn Bridge. With the power to preside over construction contracts, he skimmed money  15% to 35%  from city development works via his board of supervisors.

The former congressmans cronies lined his and their pockets, too. Together, the Tweed Ring bribed, raided and reappropriated millions of dollars from New Yorks budget via falsified leases, inflated service prices and goods purchased from co-conspirators. Selected companies would deliberately carry out substandard building work that soon required repairs  which other bidders hooked into the Tweed Ring would handle.

One operation involved stalling the construction of New Yorks pneumatic transit system, a precursor to todays subway. Tweed was a major stakeholder in the streetcar and omnibus lines, and he viewed the potential new alternative as a threat to his income.

As Tweeds grip on the city grew, his corruption became increasingly flagrant. Soon, a reform movement grew in opposition to his plundering.

Three of its more prominent voices calling for his imprisonment were New York Times publisher George Jones; the prominent reform lawyer Samuel J. Tilden; and Harpers Weekly cartoonist Thomas Nast. Ignoring bribes of $100,000 by Tweeds representatives to leave his subject alone, Nast depicted Tweed variously as an obese grotesque with a sack of dollars for a head and as a giant standing next to a ballot box proclaiming, As long as I count the votes, what are you going to do about it?

The sketches incensed Tweed, who is alleged to have remarked, Stop them damned pictures. I dont care so much what the papers say about me  my constituents dont know how to read  but they cant help seeing them damned pictures!

The cartoons helped force officials into action. County Sheriff James OBrien, a former Tweed ally who since had tried and failed to blackmail him, leaked details of the rings illegalities to Jones and the Times.

With enough evidence for charges of larceny and forgery, Tweed was arrested and convicted of those 102 crimes. But an impassioned plea from his defense helped lower the total punishment to 12 years in prison. A higher court reduced it further, to just 12 months.

Tweed spent those 12 months with such luxuries as a springboard mattress, a velvet sofa and library books in his cell. But the state, while Tweed was behind bars, sought to recover some of his embezzled money by filing a $6 million lawsuit against him. The suit resulted in his rearrest and sentencing to the Ludlow Street debtors jail in 1875.

Tweed, though, was allowed home visits to relatives, under escort by a jailer. And while he was visiting his sons brownstone on Madison Avenue, on the pretext of speaking with his sick wife, he slipped away while William Jr. and the warden waited downstairs.

Tweed had planned to escape via a covered wagon; a mark drawn on the stoop at his sons front door was his signal that his jailbreak was due to go ahead. Catching a boat in the Hudson River to New Jersey, and traveling with a red wig and spectacles under the alias John Secor, Tweed journeyed on to Cuba, a country with no extradition treaty with the United States.

After he was recognized by the American consul in Havana, Tweed crossed the Atlantic to Spain. But New York officials sent one of his cartoon depictions to the Spanish port authorities, who identified the former congressman despite his posing as a seaman, and despite his considerable weight loss caused by seasickness.

After a brief detention in Spain, Tweed was returned to Ludlow Street via the USS Franklin frigate on Nov. 23, 1876. He tried to broker an early release by disclosing details of his illegalities to a board of aldermen investigative committee. Tilden  by then the governor of New York  ensured the deal was not honored. The convicted congressman died of pneumonia while incarcerated on April 12, 1878.

Tweed since has become synonymous with political corruption and unchecked greed, appearing both in novels and as a side character in Martin Scorseses 2002 crime epic Gangs of New York. In a final twist, the politician brought down by a newspaper cartoon was in 2009 mourned by the New York Post, which ran a tongue-in-cheek op-ed pining for his return. Its midnight in our politics, it read. The state has been cleansed of giants.

A week before, coincidentally, former congressman William J. Jefferson (D-La.) received 13 years imprisonment, having been found guilty of 11 counts of corruption.

It was an incarceration that set a congressional record, beating Boss Tweeds sentence by a year.
KOULKIME, Chad - Alhadji Yaro was a teenager when Boko Haram militants stormed onto his island in the vast, blue-green waters of Lake Chad and made villagers an offer at gunpoint.

"'We will give you good lives,'" he recalled the fighters' saying as they urged young men to join them. "'You will have everything.'"

Yaro felt fear mixed with curiosity. He said he had grown up during a time of relative abundance, before changes in the weather started to mean smaller and smaller harvests for his family. Then, a few months before Boko Haram showed up in 2015, a flood destroyed their crops of corn and millet, leaving Yaro's family with nothing.

Throughout the Sahel, the region that stretches across Africa below the Sahara Desert, climate change is raising temperatures, increasing droughts and making rainfall less predictable, researchers say. These changes, in turn, are helping fuel Boko Haram, an Islamist extremist movement born in the 2000s in northern Nigeria out of political grievances, and stoking its violence, according to interviews with former militants, local leaders, military officials and researchers.

Climate change, they say, is reducing the economic prospects of young men in this part of Africa and making them more susceptible to recruitment by violent extremists. This dynamic reflects a broader finding by the United Nations this year that the opportunity for jobs, rather than religious ideology, is the main reason that people join extremist groups across Africa.

Local residents and researchers say that climate change also fosters conflict in the Lake Chad region, as extreme hunger pushes people to begin fishing and farming in areas controlled by extremists. The Lake Chad area - where the borders of Chad, Nigeria, Cameroon and Niger converge - has provided bases for Boko Haram and other militant groups since 2014.

Military officials at the U.S. Africa Command said they view climate change as a "threat exacerbator" in the Lake Chad region and elsewhere. They said they are closely studying the connections between climate and conflict, because Africom's area of responsibility involves some of the Sahelian countries most vulnerable to climate change, including Mali and Burkina Faso, where Islamist violence is spiraling. An official in the French military, which has one of its largest African bases in Chad, agreed that climate change contributes to the conflict.

Worldwide, more than half of the 20 countries considered most vulnerable to climate change are experiencing armed conflicts, according to a report by the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC). Chad, a landlocked nation of 17 million, is ranked the third-most vulnerable.

"Climate change didn't cause this conflict, but it is compounding existing dimensions of the conflict," said Janani Vivekananda, the head of climate diplomacy and security with Adelphi, a German think tank. "Then the conflict reduces people's ability to cope with climate change . . . which then creates new conflict."

Yaro, who has lived in a dusty displacement camp since surrendering to Chadian soldiers, said the riches that Boko Haram promised never materialized.

"When I got there, all they gave me was a gun," said Yaro, now 26, his eyes downcast as he remembered details of the years he would rather forget. "They told me that if I wanted to eat, I'd have to go and fight."

Inside the red zone

The lake was quiet on a recent day as two motorized pirogues cut through the gentle waves, blue water stretching toward the horizon.

The islands in this area are included in a red zone; many displaced residents have decided it is too dangerous to return here, and most aid groups, other than the ICRC, have deemed operating here to be too risky. After Boko Haram fighters began their sweep across Lake Chad nearly a decade ago, they killed scores, kidnapping entire villages, pressuring young people to join and burning the homes of those who refused.

On the island of Koulfoua, where children played along the shores and women sold fish, Chief of the Canton Mahamat Ali Kongoi said a near-total lack of economic development has made the area fertile ground for extremist recruitment. Kongoi, the local leader, noted that few here make it past primary school and have no options but farming and fishing.

Most do not know what climate change is, he said, much less what is causing it. But he said they know intimately that the weather is less regular than it was and that because of it they are poorer.

In the past 30 years, the average temperature in Chad has been about 2.5 degrees Fahrenheit higher than during the period between 1951 and 1980, according to the World Bank. There has been a threefold increase in the intensity of rainstorms across the Sahel, including in Chad, since 1982, British researchers say, and the pattern of rainfall has become less predictable.

The insurgent groups have taken advantage of these factors, Kongoi said, his voice heavy with resignation. "They have means," he said, "and they utilize their means to convince people who have nothing."

Choosing insurgency

The makeshift village of Koulkime emerges from Lake Chad's sandy shores, a cluster of shelters constructed with nothing more than reeds and blankets. For years, it has housed hundreds of families displaced from the islands by Boko Haram. About 200 men in this part of Koulkime, local leaders said, were members of Boko Haram or the rival Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) group who have since surrendered.

Yaro, now a father of four, lives in a neatly swept shelter so small that cooking materials have to be stored on top of it. He said that when he was growing up, he lived in a bigger house made of brick on an island near Nigeria. Fish, cows, goats, millet and corn were abundant.

But sometime during his teenage years, Yaro said, he noticed that the seeds they planted no longer yielded as much as before. So he was already struggling to imagine a future before the flood wiped out his crops and Boko Haram arrived.

Stories like Yaro's are common, according to interviews with six former Boko Haram members in the Lake Chad region. They said that some who joined the group were forced to do so, while others signed up voluntarily, often motivated by a combination of economic problems and frustration with the government.

"They join because of hope and because of revenge [against the government]," said Malimiti Mahamat, 35, a former Boko Haram member. And they join, he said, "because the harvests are small and the water levels are changing."

Mahamat Abdoulaye, 33, who said he was forced into Boko Haram in 2014 when he was a fisherman, said many in the group were young, desperate for money and saw no other way to get it. Many of those who joined the Islamist extremists for economic reasons were still fighting, he said.

Back on Koulfoua, Hassan Mboduo, 50, said his brother joined the militant ISWAP group in 2019 because fish had become scarce in the lake, a phenomenon that both men blamed on changes in the weather. Mbodou said he begged his brother not to go. But his brother insisted. "'I have to feed my family,'" Mbodou recalled his brother saying as he left.

After enlisting with Boko Haram, Yaro shifted his allegiance to ISWAP. The group's leaders instructed members to rob and intimidate villagers to get supplies, he recounted. Yaro said he fired on soldiers across the border in Nigeria but did not know whether he killed anyone. "They said it is about religion, but it is nothing close to religion," he said.

After a few years, Yaro recalled, he decided to escape from the islands where the extremists were holed up, and he commandeered a pirogue with three friends. They paddled as fast as they could to the shore. Being caught would mean death. He said he still remembers the loud beating of his heart.

A deadly calculus

Climate change and violent conflict can create a vicious circle, according to Vivekananda and other researchers.

In areas without conflict, people can adapt to changes in the weather by moving, for instance, searching out dry land when there is flooding and more-fertile areas when there is drought. But in areas where violent extremists are active and the military is waging a counterinsurgency, as in the Lake Chad region, people either go hungry or relocate into the sights of the militants.

Ali Abdallah, 40, said he and his brother had long tried to farm the dry land outside the village of Baga Sola. But after years of struggling to feed their families, relying mostly on money from the Irish nonprofit organization Concern Worldwide, the brothers decided in 2020 to start farming on the islands, despite the danger posed there by Boko Haram.

For a couple of years, it went well, Abdallah recounted. He and his brother were able to bring rice and potatoes home to their children. Then, one rainy night a few months ago, Abdallah said, he woke to the sound of gunfire. Insurgents had attacked their camp, fatally shooting his brother. Abdallah fled into the water.

Many who live in the region say family members and friends have faced a similar fate.

Kaka Koura, 40, a mother who lives in a one-room house, had begged her husband not to begin fishing on the lake. But she said so few options for sustenance existed on land that she could not stop him.

She said she learned he had been killed in an ambush after she heard the wailing of other women who'd lost their husbands in the same extremist attack.

Fear that conflict is inevitable

Scientists predict that as the world warms, the Sahel will be a hot spot, with temperatures here estimated to rise 1.5 times faster than the global average. It is likely that by the middle of this century, more than 40 days a year will exceed 95 degrees F, according to the U.N. Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change. Water shortages will increase and crop productivity will decline, the IPCC found.

Cameroonian Brig. Gen. Assoualai Blama, who helps lead a multinational force combating the insurgency, said the military has been defeating Boko Haram. But when he thinks about the future of the Lake Chad region, he worries, he said. The changing climate means there will be fewer economic resources to split among a growing population. Conflict, he fears, is inevitable.

Already, some former Boko Haram members say they feel trapped. After spending a few months in reentry camps run by the military, the men were released back to their families. But these days, they explained, there are even fewer opportunities than before because of the increasingly erratic weather and the shrinking area that is both arable and safe from extremists.

Ahmat Souleymane, 30, was a fighter with Boko Haram and then ISWAP. In the years since he escaped from them, he said, his wife and child have died of sicknesses that he blames on poor living conditions.

Now, he admits, he'd be ready to return to the militant fold - if only the groups would not kill him as a deserter.

"Dying here is not a solution," he said.

Mouta Ali contributed to this report.
VILSECK, Germany  A 20-year-old U.S. soldier was killed and two others were seriously injured when their car crashed into a tree near Vilseck on Friday.

The three soldiers were traveling toward Vilseck on Bavarian State Road 2120 around 7:50 p.m., when the 22-year-old driver lost control of his silver Ford Focus, possibly due to aquaplaning on the wet roadway, police told Stars and Stripes.

The vehicle skidded off the road, slammed sideways into a tree and came to rest in a roadside ditch.

The driver and a 20-year-old front seat passenger managed to free themselves, but the 20-year-old soldier in the back seat was trapped inside the vehicle. Vilseck firefighters removed the soldier from the wreckage and provided first aid.

Despite immediate medical assistance, the soldier who was in the back seat died at the scene of the accident, Alexander Lerach, spokesperson for the Oberpfalz Police Department, told Stars and Stripes on Sunday.

The other two soldiers were taken to a hospital with serious injuries that were not life-threatening, according to authorities.

Approximately 40 members of the Vilseck and Schlicht volunteer fire departments, two emergency physicians, an ambulance service and the Vilseck military police were present at the scene. The road was closed for several hours.

An investigation into the exact cause of death and the sequence of events is ongoing, Oberpfalz police said.

The U.S. military has not released the name of the soldier who died, pending notification of their next of kin.

Fridays death is the second motor vehicle fatality in Bavaria in June. A 2nd Cavalry Regiment soldier was killed in a head-on collision on a wet roadway near Vilseck on June 5.
Storytelling helped Army Lt. Col. Scott Mann deal with post-traumatic stress after serving in the Afghanistan War and retiring in 2012. A decade later, its helping him  and others  deal with the fallout of that war all over again.

In August 2021, as the Taliban took over Afghanistan and the U.S. scrambled to evacuate its allies and citizens, former Green Beret Mann was busy launching the film version of his play, Last Out: Elegy of a Green Beret, on Amazon. The play, written by and starring Mann, tells the story of a Green Beret who is trapped between his family obligations and his mission in Afghanistan as he struggles to ascend to the mythical warrior afterlife of Valhalla after getting hit with a roadside bomb.

But Mann soon switched gears, founding Task Force Pineapple with other veterans to help more than 1,000 Afghan refugees escape Kabul.

It was all-consuming until my wife had my best friends stage an intervention somewhere around October after the collapse, and I stepped away from it and got myself healthy again, Mann said recently from his home in Tampa, Fla. I was not in a good place  coming out of the Pineapple experience, and even writing the book (Operation Pineapple Express, published in 2022) because interviewing all of those folks that made it, those folks that didnt, the veterans. I have interviewed just hundreds of veterans  iconic special operators  and watching them weep in front of me and telling me that theyre never gonna let their son join the Army, and just the moral injury that I felt and so many of my peers who fought this war for 20 years felt and the families. So there was a lot of just heaviness coming out of that.

Around this time, Mann got a call from actor, musician and veterans advocate Gary Sinise. Sinise had seen the film version of Last Out through mutual friend and songwriter John Ondrasik, better known as soft-rock piano balladeer Five for Fighting.

He was struggling, Scott, with  what did we do and why did we do it, and he was losing friends who were committing suicide, and terrible different things were happening, Sinise told Stars and Stripes in May. Much like the guys back in Vietnam  the veterans that I met back in the 80s who wrote a play called Tracers because they were struggling with their own service and coming home from that war to a divided nation and a nation really that had abandoned them. The healing play that theyd made was very, very positive for them, and Scott did the exact same thing.

The partnership with the Gary Sinise Foundation has led to a summer tour for Last Out that kicked off with performances in San Diego and Phoenix, and continues through October with stops in Sioux Falls, S.D.; Franklin, Tenn.; Milwaukee and Topeka, Kan. Along with a preview show at Sinises Steppenwolf Theatre in Chicago  where Sinise presented the Vietnam-era play Tracers in the early 80s  these are the first performances of the play since COVID, and more significantly, since the end of the war in Afghanistan.

When Gary called me and said, You know, Scott, this reminds me a lot of Vietnam, I was walking in the driveway  and I just kind of fell apart on him, Mann said. And Im like, Gary, it is a lot like that. And if we dont do something, were on the front end of a mental-health tsunami. I mean, I told Congress this when I testified to the House Foreign Affairs Committee about Pineapple. I was like, you guys dont understand; I mean, youre talking about 73% of the Afghan War population feels betrayed. This is really bad, and on top of all, the suicide rate. So coming back to the play, when Gary brought that up, we both agreed that this was a preexisting asset that could be put into play right now to help veterans make meaning out of their lived experience while simultaneously showing politicians and civilians the impact.

Mann wrote the play over several years and premiered it in Tampa in November 2018. At the time, Mann and his team of actors and crew  all veterans and military family members with little to no theater experience  thought it was a one-time thing, according to the plays website. But audience reaction led Mann to mount a 16-city, 28,000-mile tour out of a U-Haul van in 2019 through his nonprofit, The Heroes Journey.

Last Out was originally developed as a one-man show with Mann starring as career Green Beret, Master Sgt. Danny Patton. But as the story progressed, Mann knew he had to involve other characters  namely, Pattons best friend and fellow Green Beret Kenny Suggins (portrayed by Lenny Bruce, also a former Green Beret who served in Afghanistan with Mann), wife Lynn (Heather Corrigan) and son Kaiden (Cooper Mann, Manns son).

While not directly autobiographical, much of the play is based on Manns own experiences. Suggins is based on Clifford Patterson, one of Manns closest friends who was killed on 9/11 at the Pentagon. And Lynn Patton takes inspiration from Manns wife, Monty Mann, and her experiences at home while Mann was in Afghanistan.

I started asking my wife questions about what happened when I was gone, what happened when I was deployed, and at first she was resistant  almost agitated about it, Mann said. At this point Id been retired for seven years, and shes like, Why are you bringing this stuff up? I dont want to talk about this. And there were times when we would kind of go at it. And then finally she told me, Babe, I had to keep all this from you to keep you alive; I really dont want to do this. And I said, Well I think if we can put this out there, its going to validate what you and a lot of other family members did. 

That seems to be exactly what has happened. Audiences, often made up of veterans and family members not just from the recent Middle East wars, but stretching back to Vietnam, Korea and World War II, participate in talkbacks at the end of the show, sharing their own experiences with Mann and each other.

We had the sister of a Green Beret sergeant major, she stood up and she said, You guys told me in two hours what my baby brother has been trying to tell me for five years,  Mann said. And so you see these families sitting together looking at the war from each others perspective, because the way the play works is the protagonist, Danny the Green Beret, hes stuck between his living room and his fire base after being severely wounded, and so he cant ascend. And so you see both, and the audience is affected by that in a very profound way because a lot of the home front stuff, no one really understands or knows.

But the play also was written for civilians to help them understand the holistic horror of war, as Mann describes it.

Im a father of three boys. My oldest son a few years ago told me he was gonna join the Army and he wanted to be a Special Forces guy, and that just hit me right between the running lights, Mann said. Because at that point we were over there, we were in this war that  most people didnt even know that we were there.  I cant tell you how many times people would say to me in airports, Were still in Afghanistan? And now my sons gonna go fight a war that I didnt finish. That for me became something that I felt like that had to be fixed, that had to be adjusted.

 My vision was that I could tell a story kind of like Its a Wonderful Life with body armor, in a way that the audience could really go for the ride and feel what its like to say goodbye to your wife at the airfield, to feel what its like to hold your buddy in your arms in his final moments because he did what you asked him to do, he continued. The things that go with combat that most people dont know. To see a military spouse watch a news report with no dialogue in a scene, and just fall to her knees and scream  I mean, it rocks the civilians to the core.

That mission seems even more important now with veterans struggling with how the Afghanistan War ended. Mann hopes to continue touring the show in partnership with the Gary Sinise Foundation, and plans to film the show in a live setting, a la the filmed version of Hamilton.

The irony in all of this is that weve been telling stories  warrior storytelling  since weve been fighting wars, Mann said. I mean, if you look at most of Shakespeares plays, thats what they do. And civil society has used storytelling as the primary way to bring veterans home from war, in every civil society on the planet, and weve lost that.
The Montpelier Foundation, operator of the home of the James Madison, has named a new CEO. The announcement came last week, after a more-than-yearlong search that followed a tumultuous period on the board of directors revolving around the history of race in America.

A native Virginian and a public historian for more than 20 years, Eola Lewis Dance was selected as the foundations new president, effective Aug. 14.

Dance, 43, most recently worked as executive director of The Black Lunch Table, a Chicago-based oral history archiving project, focused on the lives and works of Black artists.

She is a doctoral candidate in the history program at Howard University in Washington, studying African diaspora and public history. Dance said in a phone call last week she is in the thick of writing for her degree before her transition to Montpelier and hopes to defend her dissertation next year.

My work has been related to descendant engagement since 2001, Dance said. At that time, we didnt use that particular language in historic house museums and cultural landscapes. We considered ourselves doing outreach.

Dance started her career as a park ranger at the Frederick Douglass National Historic Site in Washington, the last home of famed African American abolitionist.

More than 20 years later, accepting the position at Montpelier just fit with the full evolution of her work in history, art and culture, Dance said.

It was the right time, even though I didnt know it was the right time, she said.

In March, the Montpelier Foundation announced a $5.8 million grant from the Mellon Foundation that will go toward construction of a memorial to the 300 enslaved people owned by the Madison family.

The project will be a big part of the work moving forward, said Dance, an ethnohistorian, artist and activist.

While working at Fort Monroe National Monument in Hampton from 202022, Dance said she had opportunity to support memorials like the one being planned at Montpelier, in engagement and planning.

The community, the resources and the future generation will be taken into consideration in how we thoughtfully move forward with the project in collaboration with (Montpelier owner) the National Trust and the community of people who care about Montpelier and that history.

Dance grew up at Fort Monroe in a military family. Her father retired from the Army and worked as a civil servant for more than 20 years at the military installation.

Virginia is home for me. My family moved here because of the military from Louisiana, Dance said.

It was when she was undergraduate at Southern University in Louisiana that Dance first encountered the history of James Madison, the fourth U.S. president. A mentor encouraged her to write a paper on Madison and the Federalist Papers and the concept of factions. It was her first serious paper on history, Dance said.

So this is very much a full circle moment for me, she said, noting she had the opportunity to visit Montpelier twice this year.

The CEO elect will replace interim CEO Elizabeth Chew, the foundations former executive vice president and chief curator. The two previously worked together on a collaborative National Trust initiative, Reimagining International Sites of Enslavement.

Chew assumed the interim position as CEO in May 2022, when the board accepted the resignation of former President and CEO Roy F. Young II. A month earlier, he had fired Chew and other key staff members in retaliation for criticizing the foundations barring Madison slave descendants from having an equal say in running the site.

A month later, the Montpelier Foundation board of directors announced actions to restore the good name of the presidential plantation and museum and to strengthen its finances. The board appointed 11 new directors identified by the Montpelier Descendant Community to join its three previous descendants committee appointees.

It wasnt politics that informed early decisions at Montpelier to tell the full American story, Dance said.

It was very intentional work. The leadership, the board and the staff, were committed to inclusive history and engagement and sharing decision making and so even though challenges were presented, that didnt sway that value and belief that have made the right decision, she said. That is our North Star in how we continue to move forward together.

Engagement with descendants of enslaved people, like is being done at Montpelier is so important, Dance emphasized, and has guided much of her work. Her family traces it ancestry to Orange County, she said.

Engaging Descendant Communities in the Interpretation of Slavery at Museums and Historic Sites is a rubric Dance said informed projects she worked on at Manassas Battlefield and at Jamestown and Yorktown. Dance said she has looked to the example of the Montpelier Descendants Committee and the foundation for several years now.

It isnt hard history when you take the time to have the conversations. It can help people through a range of emotions to learn how people were enslaved and how they persevered and lived, she said.

Montpelier Foundation Board of Directors chair Hasan Kwame Jeffries said they are thrilled to welcome Dance.

Montpelier is a national treasure, and Eola has the experience, expertise, enthusiasm and vision to lead Montpelier to new and exciting heights, Jeffries said.

Dance, in a statement, said she is honored to lead the Montpelier team and board as the site continues to make advancement in telling the full history of the Madisons, the African American experience and the making of America.

As a country, this time of year, we reflect on the American Revolution and the foundation of American ideals, she said. Montpelier is an ideal place for all to explore this rich history.

Dance holds a bachelors in history from Southern University and a masters in Historic Preservation from Savannah College of Art and Design. She is a mother to three sons, ages 6, 13 and 17.

This is just so special for them, Dance said. On the Dance side of the family, there are roots here. Were learning Orange is much bigger than we imagined.

The Montpelier Foundation preserves, cares for and interprets James and Dolley Madisons restored home and its surrounding landscape, the reconstructed South Yard, home to members of the plantations Enslaved Community, the Montpelier Family Cemetery and Montpelier Burial Ground, a 4,300-object museum collection, the Gilmore Cabin, the first freedmans farm in the United States, the 1910 Train Depot, preserved to represent what it would have looked like during the Jim Crow era and 150 historic structures built across multiple periods of American history.

Montpelier is located on 2,700 acres, two-thirds of which are under conservation easement, four miles southwest of the town of Orange.
The post-hajj flight operation to transport over 800000 Hujjaj of government scheme has started.

According to reports, the first two flights of the operation have departed from Jeddah airport to Pakistan.

Four airlines including Pakistan International Airlines, Airblue, Serene Air, and Saudi Airlines will work together to facilitate the safe return of Pakistani hujjaj.

A total of four flights will depart from Jeddah today (Sunday).

Minister for Religious Affairs Talha Mahmood has also departed for Islamabad International Airport in todays flight.

Officials of religious affairs and interfaith harmony, the Civil Aviation Authority, and the airlines concerned will welcome the returning hujjaj while five liters of Aab-e-Zam Zam would be provided to pilgrims upon their arrival at the Pakistan airports.

Besides, the departure of pilgrims from Makkah to Madinah will also begin from today while the first Hajj flight operation from Madinah to Pakistan will start on Wednesday.

A total of 38,000 pilgrims will be sent to Madinah while the last hajj flight from Madinah will reach home on second of next month.
Cops still search for missing man in tourist hotspot

The missing man was seen socialising in the fishing town of nearby Killybegs

The missing man was seen socialising in the fishing town of nearby Killybegs

The people of southwest Donegal are still in shock today as the search for a missing man goes into its seventh day.

Earlier this week, a multi -agency approach involving gardai, the Irish Coast Guard and the Donegal Mountain Rescue team concentrated their efforts around the stunning Sliabh Liag beauty spot as well as nearby Teelin Harbour.

Access to the popular tourist areas was denied to members of the public for four days as search efforts increased.

Yesterday morning, the Garda Press Office said it had nothing to add to a statement issued earlier this week, apart from saying the search was still ongoing.

In the event of a body being recovered, it is expected the Garda investigation will switch from a missing person probe to a full-scale murder inquiry.

Two people  a man in his 30s and a woman in her 20s who were arrested earlier this week in connection with what gardai described as an alleged assault  have been released pending a file being forwarded to the Director of Public Prosecutions.

The missing man was seen socialising in the fishing town of nearby Killybegs

In recent days though, the focus of the investigation appears to have switched towards establishing the identity of the missing person.

It is known that a man in his 60s visited the Killybegs area last weekend.

He is known to have served a prison sentence here along with a man from Donegal.

Yesterday, gardai in Killybegs were said to be still in the process of searching a house a short distance from the well-known fishing port town.

Garda forensic officers are believed to be at the scene.

The identity of the missing man is still to be released by Gardai but local sources say he is from Northern Ireland, although he is well-known to the Gardai.

It is believed he was seen socialising with two local people in Killybegs last Saturday evening but has not been seen since.

Seizure

A Donegal news outlet claimed the PSNI in Co. Tyrone had been contacted with a request to track down the missing mans family in the hope of obtaining DNA samples.

The Sliabh Liag cliffs

It is believed gardai were initially alerted to a possible crime through a telephone call by a third party.

Last Monday, at sitting of Letterkenny District Court, Judge Brendan OReilly granted a warrant for the seizure of a car belonging to one of the two people arrested the previous day.

And it is expected the police may soon search an area close to a house in Ardara, where it has been speculated a vehicle had been cleaned last Sunday.

Gardai are appealing for anyone with knowledge or information relating to any of these events to contact them.
Two people, a man in his 30s and a woman in her 20s, were arrested and quizzed over two days on Monday and Tuesday

The town of Ardara, where a car was searched by gardai

A man arrested by gardai investigating the mysterious Sliabh Liag missing person case is the son of a well-known writer.

A huge search across the cliffs took place over a number of days since Monday.

The bizarre investigation followed a tip-off to gardai that a man had been seriously assaulted and was missing.

Two people, a man in his 30s and a woman in her 20s, were arrested and quizzed over two days on Monday and Tuesday following the tip-off before they were released without charge.

The missing man is understood to be in his 60s and from Northern Ireland and was staying in the Killybegs and Kilcar area before disappearing last weekend.

The two people arrested are understood to have been in the mans company in the days before he was last seen.

The pair crashed a car in the village of Fintown on Sunday last, resulting in the mans arrest for alleged drink-driving.

The man was rearrested as he left Letterkenny District Court on suspicion of assault, while the woman was arrested at another location.

At the same time, detectives applied to Judge Brendan OReilly for a search warrant to examine the mans car.

Splatters of blood were found in the car which were examined and analysed by forensics officers.

A warrant was also secured to examine a property on the outskirts of Killybegs.

Between Monday and Thursday, gardai closed off public access to Sliabh Liag, one of the highest sea cliffs in Europe, which is normally very busy with tourists at this time of year.

Late on Wednesday the focus of the search shifted to the nearby Teelin Pier, where the Garda Water Unit carried out searches until Thursday evening.

On Friday evening it was announced Sliabh Liag was reopening to the public but that Garda searches would continue in the area.

Gardai have continued to exercise extreme caution around the case and have not confirmed that they are searching for a missing person but only sought information on an alleged assault at Sliabh Liag.

The case and the search for a possible missing person has become a huge talking point, with social media awash with claims and counter-claims as to what exactly happened.

If there has been a fatal assault, a body could surface in the coming days at a number of locations around the coastline.

The discovery of a body would completely change the direction of the Garda investigation.

As it stands, a file on the matter has been sent to the Director of Public Prosecutions to decide the future direction of any possible charges.
Johnny Foley (16) was killed as stolen car with five teenagers ploughs head-on into female driver on motorway

Gardai in Cork at the site of the fatal crash on the M8 motorway

Johnny Foley (16), who was a passenger in the stolen car, died in the crash

Johnny Foley (16), who was a passenger in the stolen car, died in the crash

Fire crews at the scene of the crash on the M8 motorway which killed one teenager and injured five other people

The driver of a car which drove the wrong way down the motorway and crashed into a female motorist in Co. Cork, was a suspect in a separate stolen car incident in Dublin in recent weeks.

Johnny Foley (16) died in the head-on collision when the stolen car in which he was a passenger drove the wrong way down the M8 motorway in the early hours of Saturday morning.

The shocking incident also led to the hospitalisation of five others, including the female driver of the other car, whose condition is described as serious.

The crash, which occurred on the M8 motorway at Ballybeg near Mitchelstown, Co. Cork, around 1am yesterday, is the latest in a string of recent incidents in which stolen cars have been driven the wrong way down motorways as the drivers believe gardai wont chase after them.

Johnny Foley (16), who was a passenger in the stolen car, died in the crash

Officers have referred the incident to the Garda Siochana Ombudsman Commission as gardai had tried to intercept the car before it entered the motorway.

While the investigation is at an early stage, it is believed gardai did not give chase to the vehicle.

The car had been reported stolen earlier in the week and was being driven by a 17-year-old boy who had four teenage passengers, including Johnny Foley, in the vehicle with him.

The driver of the car, who is known to Gardai, is understood to be originally from Blanchardstown, Dublin, but had been living in Cork in recent times.

He was suspected of being the driver in another incident in recent weeks, where a stolen car was involved in two chases before driving the wrong way down the N3 in Dublin.

The driver managed to get away as gardai had to stand down because they couldnt follow him against the oncoming traffic.

Yesterday, he was driving the wrong way down the M8 in Cork between junctions 12 and 13 on the northbound carriage of the M8 motorway when he crashed head-on into a car being driven by a female motorist.

Johnny Foley, who is from the Togher area of Cork, suffered catastrophic injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene.

The four other occupants of the car  three teenage boys and a teenage girl  were rushed to Cork University Hospital with non-life threatening injuries. Four occupants were under-age with the exception of one passenger, an 18-year-old male.

Gardai in Cork at the site of the fatal crash on the M8 motorway

The sole occupant of the other vehicle  a woman in her 30s  had serious injuries.

The stolen vehicle had been taken from outside a house in Glasheen on the southside of Cork earlier in the week.

Friends and relatives of Johnny Foley paid tribute to him on social media yesterday.

His aunt Mary Foley wrote: Cant believe I am writing this. Rip my beautiful nephew johnny you are going to be missed so much. OUR JOHNNY we all love you so much and our hearts are breaking. Sleep tight kid.

The scene was sealed off yesterday for technical examination.

There has been a spate of joyriders, burglary gangs and other criminals driving the wrong way down motorways in recent weeks in the belief gardai would not risk prosecution by continuing the pursuit.

In May, the Sunday World reported how there had been three incidents in one day in Dublin and Kildare where thugs had driven the wrong way down motorways. There have been several more incidents in the meantime.

Rank-and-file gardai recently expressed serious concerns about the growing trend and said it posed a huge danger.

On Wednesday a garda appeared in court accused of dangerous driving following a road crash that killed three members of a burglary gang who drove the wrong way down a motorway.

Johnny Foley (16), who was a passenger in the stolen car, died in the crash

John Francis Ryan appeared in court on charges in connection with incident on Dublins N7 two years ago. The case against him was adjourned at Dublin District Court to October 4.
Gangster Foley admits threatening behaviour after heavy claimed he would slit mans throat over unpaid rent debt

Foley, who was a member of the gang led by Martin the General Cahill, has had his life under threat

Veteran gangster Martin the Viper Foley has pleaded guilty to engaging in threatening and abusive behaviour during an incident in which a heavy for Viper Debt Recovery threatened to slit a mans throat over a 4,000 debt.

The 68-year-old, widely regarded as one of Irelands most notorious gangland criminals, faces a maximum sentence of three months in prison after taking the stand at Wexford District Court on Tuesday and entering the plea.

State prosecutor Sinead Gleeson confirmed to Judge James McCourt the State would not be proceeding with a separate charge against Foley alleging he too had made a threat to kill tenant Nigel Doolin on the day of the incident.

Details of the charge on which Foley was being arraigned were read to him after he entered the dock.

The count alleged that Foley, on June 17, 2020 at 20 Holly Walk, Cromwellsfort Grove, Wexford engaged in threatening, abusive or insulting words or behaviour with an intent to provoke a breach of the peace or being reckless as to whether such a breach of the peace occurred.

In reply to the charge, Foley responded: Guilty.

Foley set up Viper Debt Recovery Services in 2004

Ms Gleeson told the court that sentencing in the matter would take a relatively short period of time as Foleys co-accused Alan Nulty had already pleaded guilty to making a threat to kill and had been sentenced for that offence.

During Nultys sentencing hearing in January last year, the court heard how he had been working for Viper Debt Recovery  a company founded by Martin Foley  when on June 17, 2020 he threatened tenant Mr Doolin he would have his throat slit while he walked his dog if he didnt come up with 4,000 in rent arrears.

Nulty uttered the threat, and another that he would get someone to smash your head with a hammer while attempting to collect the debt in rent arrears from Wexford man Doolin.

Nulty dodged a jail sentence over the threats, which carry a maximum sentence of up to 10 years in prison, after the court heard he had no intention of carrying out the threats.

Nultys sentencing hearing heard how Garda Emer OReilly was called to the house on that date.

On arriving at the property, she spoke to landlord David Allen, who claimed that he was owed 4,000 in rent by his tenant Nigel Doolin.

He also said that he had called in the debt recovery agency run by Martin Foley.

The accused, Alan Nulty, was present too and he stated that he was there to recover property to cover the debt.

The garda heard a recording of a man with a Dublin accent, who turned out to be Nulty. The recording was made through the door of the house by Doolin.

As well as the hammer threat, the recording also picked up a warning that the tenant would have his throat slit while he was out walking his dog.

The garda witness described the tone of the threats made by the defendant as persuasive. The court was told that the debt recovery agency was due to take 20 per cent of whatever was recovered.

Foley, who was a member of the gang led by Martin the General Cahill, has had his life under threat

Nulty told the garda that he had no intention of carrying out any of the threats he made. A qualified electrician and father of three, he had been working for a security firm in recent years.

However, his ability to work had been affected by an arm injury sustained in a motorcycle accident four years earlier.

Defending counsel accepted that what happened at Holly Walk was totally unacceptable, describing it as a spectacular once off lapse of judgement.

The judge described the incident at Cromwellsfort as an insidious crime with disturbing aspects to it and he decided to take a couple of days to formulate his decision.

When the case was re-called, the judge remarked that the tenant had been threatened in a very serious way.

Alan Nulty

What Nulty said was delivered in such a way as to make it believable and Doolin was rightly terrified. It was noted that no actual violence occurred.

The seriousness of the incident was marked by the recording of a three-year jail term. However, this sentence was suspended in full once Nulty agreed to raise 5,000 to be offered to the man he attempted to intimidate.

Martin Foleys sentencing for the offence of engaging in threatening and abusive behaviour during the incident was this week adjourned to a later court date.

Foley set up Viper Debt Recovery on November 18, 2004, at which time his profession was described in company documents as a sale rep.

The company identified its purpose as the provision of debt recovery and repossession services and to carry out all activities in relation to the aforementioned business.

He resigned as a director of the company on November 17, 2014.

Foleys wife Sonia, who was present in court with him on Tuesday, was appointed as a director of the company in October 2018 and retains this position.

Nicknamed The Viper, Foley has more than 40 convictions for offences including assault, robbery and possession of threatening weapons.

In 2020, he was ordered to pay 738,449 in tax, interest and penalties after losing a Supreme Court appeal against a Criminal Assets Bureau tax bill.

Foley had taken the case to the Supreme Court, claiming that CAB had delayed for years in pursuing him for the principal sum, interest and penalties and that the total sum owed dwarfed the original judgment against him.

The interest and penalties incurred over the unpaid tax bill more than trebled the amount initially owed.

Foley came to prominence in the 1980s when he was a member of the gang which was led by slain mobster Martin The General Cahill and as a spokesman for a gang which clashed with the Concerned Parents anti drug movement.

He was kidnapped by the IRA in 1984 but was freed after a shoot-out between the terrorists and gardai in Phoenix Park.

Foleys life has been under threat since the late 1980s with different criminal enterprises intent on murdering him.

In the last major attack on his life, he was shot numerous times in broad daylight in Dublin in January 2008 by the Kinahan cartel.

Although the attacker escaped in a white Ford van, Foley whispered his name to the first garda who arrived on the scene.
It has been suggested that Brueckner came through the door of the McCanns apartment using a lock picking kit.

The prime suspect in Madeleine McCann's disappearance had a kit that could "pick any lock, a witness has claimed.

Christian 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 from her family's holiday apartment in the Algarve resort of Praia da Luz in May 2007.

Helge Busching, who is now in German police witness protection, suggested that Brueckner came through the door of the McCanns apartment using a lock picking kit.

The 52-year-old told The Sun that he found the kit at Brueckners Algarve home after he and a friend decided to raid the property and kept it before turning it into police.

I knew from Christian that he uses tools to break into holiday resorts, hotels and holiday homes to steal from tourists, he said.

There were passports on the table. There was all sorts of stuff lying around  cameras, suitcases, everything that tourists have with them. I also found a lock pick set.

You can use it to pick any lock, including security locks.

The kit is comprised of fourteen black stainless steel picks, each designed to unlock a different type of door.

It is understood to be made by Dino, which claims that its products ensure easier access into the most restrictive European keyways fast.

Police in Portugal have maintained that the man who kidnapped Madeleine broke in through the window of the apartment and either left through a door with her or climbed back out the window.

But Busching believes that the main suspect may have used his lock picking kit to get access to the premises, saying he entered Through the door. Easily. He can open any door.

German police were reportedly electrified by the discovery of Brueckners lock picking kit and now believe that the window theory may be a red herring, according to a source.

An insider said: The German detectives were electrified by the discovery of the tool kit with the lock picks in it. This evidence is now very important to them.

It confirmed a suspicion that theyd had for a long time  that Christian B entered the apartment through the door.

It is understood that police have also been told Brueckner had access to car paint solvent as he had previously worked as a mechanic, The Sun reports.

Detectives are now examining a theory that Brueckner used the substance to knock Madeleine out before opening the window from the inside to avoid inhaling toxic fumes.

Busching last week also claimed that Brueckner confessed to kidnapping Madeline, as reported by Bild.

He alleged that Brueckner told him the child didn't scream during the abduction.

Busching claims that Brueckner made the confession at the illegal Dragon Festival, which was held in the southern Spanish town of Orgiva a year after Madeleine's disappearance.

He said he knows that Brueckner abducted Madeleine, adding that another witness knows it as well.

Last month, soil from a reservoir in Portugal searched by police last month was submitted the be compared with samples from Brueckners camper van.

Detectives believe Brueckner visited the remote Barragem do Arade reservoir in Portugals Algarve region days after Madeleine disappeared.

Sources told The Daily Mirror that officials now believe they can prove that Brueckners van was in the area at the time the three-year-old was abducted.

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.
I hate to remind you, but every one of us (including me) will die one day

All over the world, including Ireland, there is a concerted movement to pass laws claiming to give us the right to decide when we die, and how we die, so as to avoid pain and suffering.

I hate to remind you, but every one of us (including me) will die one day. No matter how we sugarcoat it with pass away or passed or even pass on, we cant avoid dying. We just dont know when. I can live with that  there are many who cannot.

My personal conviction is that we dont choose either birth or death. There is a higher power who decides such momentous events. There are others who have a different perspective and I have to respect their convictions as I hope they respect mine.

We need to think through the implications of changing the law.

Society is struggling to explain why so many take their own life now. We are rightly horrified by the rise in deaths by suicide, particularly among young men. But if the State legalises the deliberate taking of life in the womb and in old age, it becomes impossible to argue that suicide at other times is wrong. We cannot have it both ways.

One good thing is that the movement to pass laws permitting assisted suicide is actually forcing us to think about the sacredness of life itself.

There is widespread misinformation about death. Many believe Catholic theology requires prolonging life for as long as possible; this is not true. As far back as the 16th century, Catholics taught that one does not have to use extraordinary means to prolong life.

Furthermore, the use of drugs to overcome pain is not only allowed but encouraged, even when the result is decreased consciousness and a shortening of life.

The US Catholic bishops  who are by no means a liberal bunch  wrote recently: The duty to preserve life is not absolute, for we may reject life-prolonging procedures that are insufficiently beneficial or excessively burdensome.

Most moral experts, however, oppose euthanasia  the direct killing of a person, as in assisted suicide. Assisted suicide is legal in nine states in the USA. There has been a process of softening up peoples attitudes to the idea of assisted suicide in the same way that other forms of ending life, including abortion, have slipped into law. I know from my dealings with people at the end of life, that a growing number believe assisted suicide is acceptable.

Modern society has a universal fear of suffering. Advances in medical science convince us that life can be prolonged, but when old age actually arrives, we cannot cope and claim the right to end life on a whim.

Another fear is that prolonging death will lead to huge medical expenses which can bankrupt the dying persons family. Believe me, it is a real problem.

American theologian Thomas Reece recently describes what happens. Those supporting assisted suicide tout it as a free choice made by rational people. In reality, people requesting suicide may be suffering from depression or inadequate pain medication.

There is also a danger of coercion from people who do not want to bear the expense of caring for the dying. Assisted suicide would certainly reduce the costs to insurance companies and to government programmes.

The question is: How free are such decisions?

I spend much of my life accompanying patients on their last journey in this life. I have always believed that this should be a time for love, compassion and reconciliation. Ive experienced beautiful times with patients, their families and the caring professions, especially in hospice care.

Sadly I have also witnessed people being cast aside because they no longer contribute to society. The excuse often used by families and others is that they dont want to see their relatives suffering on and on. The fact is though that unbearable suffering is rarely an issue for most patients in this day and age.

There is no justification to prolong life through extraordinary means; nor should we cut life short because WE cant cope with THEIR pain.

Caring for People at the End of Life, has good advice: What distinguishes ordinary from extraordinary in Catholic moral theology is not whether the treatment is ordinary in the sense of being normal or frequently used, but rather whether the treatment is beneficial (ordinary) or excessively burdensome (extraordinary) to the patient.

Does a particular medical intervention or procedure offer a reasonable hope of benefit to the patient that is not excessively burdensome?

At the start of an illness, it is perfectly acceptable to experiment with a variety of interventions. But if the illness is at an advanced stage, interventions may be neither practical nor helpful. It is right to honestly assess the situation. It is not abandoning the person; it is rather admitting the limits of medicine.

For example, at the beginning of a cancer diagnosis, it is right to try many forms of chemotherapy etc, but in the latter stages treatment might have to be discontinued because it is no longer of benefit and may even be harmful.

The family, the patient and the medical team together need to balance the pain inflicted with the chances of overcoming the illness and the questionable value of causing unjustified pain to someone who needs to be freed from their hopeless situation.

In former times, death was hard to ignore because people died at home surrounded by their families. Even children saw death as a common occurrence. Now everything, including death, has to be sanitised.

Finally, every family should have conversations about death and funerals. There is nothing worse than a family dispute in a hospital room over what to do with their mother when she dies. Such rows can be avoided if people make their desires known to their relatives before they get sick. Initiating such a conversation with an elderly relative requires diplomacy, but their voice deserves to be heard.
The country has seen violent protests after police killed a teenager on Tuesday.

Police officers take position during riots following the death of Nahel, a 17-year-old teenager killed by a French police officer in Nanterre during a traffic stop, at Champs Elysees in Paris, France, July 1, 2023. REUTERS/Nacho Doce

The Department of Foreign Affairs has advised Irish people travelling to and from France to exercise caution following days of riots.

The country has seen violent protests after police killed a teenager on Tuesday.

Earlier this week, the Department of Foreign Affairs took to Twitter to advise those entering France to take care and avoid areas where disturbances or riots are taking place.

A spokesperson for the Irish Embassy in Paris tweeted: The Embassy is aware of ongoing and significant public disturbances across France.

Irish citizens should exercise caution and avoid areas of confrontation. Keep an eye on updates from your transport provider; trams and busses in Paris will stop service early this evening.

The warning comes following a spate of protests over the death of 17-year-old Nahel M, who was shot by police at point-blank range during a traffic stop.

Officials said that around 45,000 French police were deployed on Saturday to control the riots, with more than 700 arrests across the country.

Read more Rioters ram car into French mayors house while family sleep

And more than 800 fires were lit by rioters during the night, although Saturday resulted in fewer arrests overall than in previous days.

Protestors in L'Hay-les-Roses, south of Paris, also tried to set fire to Mayor Vincent Jeanbruns home before launching rockets at his fleeing wife and children.

Mr Jeanbrun was not at home at the time but his wife suffered a broken leg and one of their children was also hurt as a result of the shocking incident.

Mr Jeanbrun said he had been in his office overseeing the riots when the attack on his home took place at 1.30am on Saturday.

In a statement, the mayor said that attackers used a car to break through the gates of their home before setting the vehicle on fire so that the blaze would spread to his home.

He said the incident was "a murder attempt of unspeakable cowardice".

"A line has been crossed," he said.

"If my priority today is to take care of my family, my determination to protect and serve the Republic is greater than before," he added.
Ukraines Constitution Day is a public holiday in the country and has been celebrated every year, on June 28, since 1996, when the constitution was adopted.

With over 1,300 Ukrainians in County Wicklow and, in Greystones, just over 100 residing at Tiglins centre in Coolnagreina in the town, where better to celebrate than at the centre, which welcomed Ukrainians only weeks after the Russian invasion, after Tiglin chairman Aubrey McCarthy called the head of the Irish Red Cross, Pat Carey, who then swiftly linked Tiglin with the International Protection Office.

Those living at Coolnagreina are mainly women and children, while most primary school children in Greystones attend St Patricks NS.

And Principal Rachel Harper, who is also a board member of Tiglin, and Whale Theatre founder Ross McParland, were among those who helped to a organise a truly memorable day for the towns Ukrainian nationals, where among the guests were Ukrainian Ambassador to Ireland Larysa Gerasko, the Polish Ambassador to Ireland Anna Sochanska and Israeli Ambassador to Ireland Lironne Bar Sadeh.

Jay Bobinac, who is one of Tiglin's centre managers, said that over 150 people turned out on the day where there was a number of performances, including poetry reading, Irish dancing and acts from local theatre groups.

Her Excellency expressed her gratitude to the people of Ireland and Greystones for accepting her countrymen to the town, saying that she was grateful to all the organisers of this wonderful day full of good mood, Ukrainian and Irish songs and pleasant communication that brings Ukrainians and Irish together every day.

"She was so thankful for the approach of the town, where they are integrated into the community, Jay said. Most of the people that live with us have an opportunity to build in the community and find work, and they have been so well supported. The children are going to local schools and those that want to work are working. Some of the pupils from St Patrick's also performed on the day and the ambassador and the guests were so impressed with them and it was a lovely occasion.

"We just have to thank the community for being so supportive and for the Ukrainians it was such a great day for them to get together. The Ukrainian people also prepared Ukrainian food, so they played a big role as well.

Opening the event, Ms Harper told all gathered that our hearts are with our Ukrainian friends, you have become such a huge part of our community.

"You have brought so much to Greystones and we are so grateful and we are all in awe at your strength and courage, she added, remarking at how much the children at St Patricks heave learnt from their new Ukrainian friends.

Addressing the Ukrainians directly, she concluded by telling them that Greystones is your home for as long as you want it to be.
Before attending a California air show in 1974, Charles Dewey Reinhard had never seen a hot air balloon before. Two years and a full-fledged balloon fascination later, in 1976, he founded the Colorado Springs Balloon Classic and thus "launched one of the longest, most iconic traditions in the city of Colorado Springs, Mayor John Suthers said during an award ceremony Monday.

Suthers presented Reinhard, 92, with the Spirit of the Springs Celebration Award, given annually to honor "the outstanding achievement of an individual or organization" in the city. Since Reinhard's first balloon event drew roughly 100 spectators nearly half a century ago, the event had garnered so much acclaim that in 2015 it rebranded as Labor Day Lift Off, one of the nations largest, free balloon festivals.

The record-breaking 200,000 spectators that attended this year's balloon extravaganza from Sept. 3-5 at Memorial Park have Reinhard to thank for the awe-inspiring morning liftoffs, evening balloon glows and everything in between.

We are incredibly fortunate that (Reinhard) chose to share his passion for ballooning for the benefit of Colorado Springs residents and visitors, Suthers said.

Reinhard, a Navy veteran and lifetime Colorado Springs businessman, said he returned to work the Monday after that fateful airshow and immediately scoured the Front Range for a hot air balloon.

Though he grew up flying aircraft and gliders, he didn't learn to pilot a giant balloon until years later when an Air Force Academy cadet showed him the ropes. From there, Reinhard went on to found the Ballooning Society of Pikes Peak and was inducted into the United States Ballooning Hall of Fame in 2011.

(Balloons are) the only kind of aircraft you can go flying over  and pick up wildflowers out of your basket, or go up to 10 or 12,000 feet in Aspen and pick pine cones out of the top of pine trees, or dip down in Prospect Lake or the Atlantic Ocean, the balloonist said.

A "dip down" into that mighty ocean would be an understatement regarding Reinhard's ambitions in 1977, when he became the 16th man to attempt a balloon ride across the Atlantic, a feat so preposterous that CBS deemed the mission the "Impossible Dream."

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According to a previous Gazette feature on Reinhard, the journey lasted 47 hours before a storm befell the "Eagle," his gas balloon. But he later pressed on in his international ventures, representing the U.S. in challenges like the Gordon Bennett Cup.

In the decades since, Reinhard hurdled the peaks of the Alps and Colorado's Front Range along telephone poles, trees and more  often with his family chasing him down from the ground. Sometimes, while flying gas balloons, a pilot might be in the sky for two or three days at a time with no idea of where the balloon might land.

"Every time you land a balloon, youre trespassing, so you have to have some social skills at times," Reinhard said, adding that he "always carried money to pay farmers for damaged crops.

But rarely were residents miffed to see the great colorful thing rising from their fields, Reinhard said. "Balloons are happy things."

That joy has been shared with thousands of people since founding the Colorado Springs balloon festival. Reinhard said he had three goals in mind when pioneering the Springs' own festival to rival that of Albuquerque's: have the highest quality balloon event in the nation, keep the admission to the festivities free and "promote aviation in general."

Based on the reactions he sees each year as the balloons rise during the Labor Day Lift Off, Reinhard said he believes he's done that.

After all the hard work that goes into these things," Reinhard said, 'its just a special reward seeing the smiles on everyones faces.
Report gives incredible insight into Noahs last messages and searches, which point to obsession with controversial psychologist Jordan Peterson

Fiona with her adored son Noah, whose body was found in a storm drain in 2020

The mother of tragic Noah Donohoe has rejected a report by a psychiatrist which states her son died by suicide while suffering low mood and struggling with his sexuality.

Fiona Donohoe says Noah was raised in an open-minded family in Belfast and around people of same-sex relationships, and showed no signs of battling with his own sexual identity.

There is absolutely no evidence that I have ever been made aware of that Noah was confused about his sexuality. In fact, our dynamic as a family was always one of open discussion on all topics, including sexuality.

The report seen by the Independent Investigation team probing the circumstances around Noahs death does, however, give an incredible insight into his last texts, social media messages and Google searches, which point to a strange obsession with controversial psychologist Jordan Peterson.

Noah Donohoe's backpack: A look at the contents inside

The team lead by Dublin-based journalist Donal MacIntyre, says the last message sent by Noah was to Petersons blue-tick Instagram account, and while it was answered, the PSNI have been unable to access the communication.

Hed also spent his last day searching biblical references and places on the internet as well as advice on how to ward off Satan.

The details are contained in the psychiatric report prepared for the coroner, and the experts opinion is that the 14-year-old died by suicide as he could not square-off being gay with his perception of Petersons views of the future.

MacIntyre says the report reveals important details of the teenagers fascination with Peterson and says the run-up to his tragic death would suggest that Noah may have been suffering a mental health episode, but believes there are no factors identified which suggest he was in any way suicidal.

He might not have been thinking straight but he wasnt thinking about suicide. None of this was planned, he said.

Fionas mum insisted: Noah was brought up around same-sex relationships and couples, and so the idea he would have struggled accepting whatever his sexuality was is inconceivable to me.

To suggest this would be a factor to trigger Noah to consider suicide shows the little understanding the expert had into who Noah was as a teenage boy.

Noah had no issues of sexuality. That is never something Noah would have hidden.

And he would never have felt shame in it as he was brought up to be proud of who he was and embrace everyones individuality regardless of colour, religion and preferences towards how they live their life as long as they dont harm another person by doing so.

She said she does not believe that there is any merit in the suicide suggestion.

It is understood that none of his friends or teachers interviewed by the police suggested that Noah had issues with his sexuality.

The report was written up by a leading psychiatrist based on witness statements, testimony from friends and family and forensic reports along with CCTV, medical records and maps.

The report does not view his death as the result of a concussion, due to drugs or alcohol and nor does it believe it could have been an accident.

But it does take the view that suicide is a strong possibility, despite Noah having no history of mental ill-health, self-harm and being described as a happy, bright and well rounded child.

In the report, the psychiatrist  whose identity we have chosen not to reveal  outlines a scenario where Noah is described as experiencing an acute episode of low and unstable mood at the time of his death.

A stressor is outlined as possible struggles with his sexuality, referenced in communication with pals in the weeks before his death when he describes being in denial and coming out although the report admits the messages are not clear.

It couples the feelings with statements around his interest in Peterson at the time and the possibility that he couldnt tally that with the psychologists beliefs.

Whether the shedding of clothes along the way to the storm drain area reflects a deeper quasi religious symbolism will need further clarification, the report states.

Hours before he disappeared, Noah looked up ancient religious places including Sodom and Gomorrah referred to in Petersons Biblical Series released on the same day, June 21, 2020.

That afternoon, Noah set off from his home on his bicycle, telling his mum Fiona he was meeting pals at Cave Hill but instead he was caught on CCTV on a bizarre journey across the city during which he lost his back pack and removed his clothes before abandoning his bike.

He was found six days later in a storm drain off the Shore Road.

His inquest will hear details of the psychiatric report, which reveals how witnesses say he had been voraciously reading the bestselling Peterson book 12 Rules for Life and speaking with friends about his philosophies about the pursuit of happiness and changing his mindset.

MacIntyre, whose team has already revealed how the youngster secretly left his Belfast home in the early hours of the morning of his disappearance, says the report gives no evidence he was suicidal but focusses heavily on Peterson.

At the time, the psychologist was releasing a series of podcasts called the Biblical Series, featuring lengthy lectures from the ancient books of Genesis and applying them to modern life.

On the day Noah went missing his internet searches included ancient biblical terms, including: Tree of Moreh, a place where messages from God were received; Bethel, where Abraham found a ladder to heaven; Negev, a desert where ancient people developed techniques to conserve water and the Land of Ai, conquered by the Israelites.

On the same day, Peterson released a podcast called Sodom and Gomorrah, which focused on transformation in humans being like a baptism and a return to water, the source of life.

In statements collected by the PSNI, friends and others have said in the days before his death Noah rarely left down Petersons book and carried it with him until shortly before he disappeared naked into the storm drain.

His inquest will hear that he had told friends he was feeling a bit blue and had cancelled a day out, saying he wanted to be on his own to think. On June 16, mum Fiona reported to a pastoral team at the school that his mood wasnt as good as usual. At 2am on June 18 Noah texted a pal and said: Ask yourself are you truly happy with the things in your life.

But by June 20 a friend said he was calmer and focused all conversation on Petersons book, talking about risks that must be taken in life.

The report described Noah as a straight A student who was bright and enthusiastic and had plans to become a doctor and attend Trinity College, in Dublin.

MacIntyre agrees with Fiona Donohoe that nothing in Noahs personal search history seemed to indicate he was struggling with his sexuality. The experts can only work with the data theyve been given, and not all the evidence held by the PSNI was in the psychiatrists hands when he wrote the report.

As much as it is an expert report, it is equally a subjective opinion and is likely to be challenged by alternative experts commissioned by the family.

You can donate to the investigations crowdfunder at crowdfunder.co.uk/p/the-independent-noah-donohoe-investigation.
Ex-RTE Director Generals legal team corresponding with station as bosses brace for wave of litigation

Lawyers representing ex-RTE Director General Dee Forbes have been in correspondence with the station  sparking fears she could now be set to sue her former employers.

Last night, a spokesman for the former RTE boss confirmed to the Sunday World that Ms Forbes had lawyered up but refused to comment on whether she had threatened legal action.

It comes as the broadcaster is bracing itself for a litigation battle as part of the fall out from the scandal over the secret 345,000 pay deal with Ryan Tubridy.

During this weeks tense Oireachtas hearing, RTEs Director of Legal Paula Mullooly had admitted the station is now facing a number of active and threatened litigation arising out of the controversy.

But when asked by the Sunday World if Ms Forbes had threatened legal action against her former employer, the spokesperson replied: No comment.

Ryan Tubridy with his agent Noel Kelly

Queried whether lawyers for Ms Forbes are now in correspondence with RTE, he replied: Of course.

There has been correspondence from Dees lawyers and RTE  that is absolutely the case. Beyond that I wouldnt really be prepared to say anything.

Asked whether it is envisaged in the short to medium term that Ms. Forbes may be available to the Public Accounts Committee to answer questions, he replied: I would refer back to two things that we have said on the record that there are genuine and ongoing health concerns.

The Sunday World also attempted to contact Ryan Tubridy and his high-powered agent Noel Kelly of NK Management yesterday in an effort to establish if either of them has threatened litigation against the station.

When we called to the Foxrock home of Mr. Kelly, no-one answered the door while calls to his mobile phone went unanswered and a text message did not elicit a response.

We also called to the gated home of Mr. Tubridy in Clontarf but no-one responded when we buzzed at the entrance.

A phone call to Mr. Tubridy also did not elicit a response and a follow up text was not returned.

A spokesperson for Renault Ireland responded, when asked if the company had threatened litigation arising as a result of the commercial agreement entered into between RTE, Renault and Tubridy: We dont have any further comment and as previously said Renault doesnt comment on commercial agreements.

RTE buildings

Calls to RTEs media team were not responded to.

The fact RTE is now facing active and threatened litigation was disclosed during a exchange between TD Alan Kelly and RTEs Director of Legal Paula Mullooly during an exchange at the Public Accounts Committee on Thursday.

Mr. Kelly began by asking whether the online meeting, during which a deal was brokered that would see Renault pay Tubridy to attend commercial events with the cost to be deducted against their sponsorship of the Late Late Show.

AK: In relation to the zoom call  this famous teams call that took place . the tri-partite  can we get a copy of it? Presumably, thats recorded?

PM: No, it wasnt recorded. Its not recorded.

AK: Is that not standard practice for calls like that.

PM: No, I dont believe so! No!

AK: So theres no minutes?

PM: There is a note of the call taken by the lawyer who was present at that meeting!

AK: Who was the lawyer?

PM: I dont want to name the lawyer in question  its not fair! Shes acted appropriately throughout this!

AK: Ok  no problem. Thats fine. Will you provide a copy of the note to us please by next Thursday?

PM: Deputy, sorry! Can I just intervene there? The note forms part of the legal advice in the context of this file.

It is covered by legal professional privilege. I have an issue in the context of this matter where there is a number of active and threatened litigation and I need to protect the legal professional privilege in respect of that.

RTEs Director of Legal, Paula Mullooly

Contacted yesterday, Mr. Kelly said: After (the meeting) I followed up with her and I pointed out that the Board and the Chairperson make the decision on whether to waive privilege on that note and, given everything thats happened, I expect that that privilege will be waived and we will get that note.

Asked whether the Public Accounts Committee will seek further clarity on which parties or parties are behind the active and threatened litigation arising from the Tubridy deal, Mr. Kelly said he is unsure whether this falls within (PACs) remit before adding the focus for PAC is on obtaining the notes of the meeting.
Emergency services are responding to a crash on State Highway 29.

Waka Kotahi NZTA advise that there is a crash on SH 29, Kaimai Range, between Tauranga and Te Poi.

"Police received a report of a single-vehicle crash on State Highway 29, Lower Kaimai at around 4.05pm," says a police spokesperson.

"Initial reports suggest a vehicle rolled.

"There are no reports of injuries or road closures."

"Due to a crash near Hanga Rd, road users are advised to expect delays and to pass the scene with care," says an NZTA spokesperson.

At the scene?

Phone 0800SUNLIVE or email newsroom@thesun.co.nz
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A fundamental principle of the law of wills is that, when you die, you can leave your property to anyone you choose, as long as your spouse gets a legally required share.

A fundamental principle of the law of contracts is that promises, once made, will be enforced.

So what happens when the law of wills meets up with the law of contracts?

Well, its possible to form a contract dealing with the making of a will or agreeing not to revoke a will or electing to die intestate  without a will. But, this is tricky business and something for which you will want help from a lawyer who knows both probate law and contract law.

In play here in Colorado is a statute tucked away in the Probate Code, which confirms that people can enter into contracts affecting a will.

This statute says that, to be effective, such a contract must be evidenced by "(i) provisions of a will stating material provisions of the contract; (ii) an express reference in a will to a contract and extrinsic evidence proving the terms of the contract, or (iii) a writing signed by the decedent evidencing the contract."

To summarize, the contract needs to be in writing and its terms must be clear. In addition, as with any other contract, there needs to be "consideration"  meaning the person benefiting from a promise must give something of value to the person making the promise. The Colorado statute also states that "the execution of a joint will or mutual wills does not create a presumption of a contract not to revoke the will or wills."

To shed further light (perhaps) on this murky subject, heres a hypothetical example of a will-related contract.

Lets say your grandfather owns a Colorado lakeside cabin where you and he have spent many happy days fishing together. Your grandfather has placed in his will a provision that, on his death, the cabin will come to you.

However, there are other relatives of yours lurking about who also covet this cabin and would like it to come to them when your grandfather dies. How can you protect your inheritance from your grandfather changing or revoking his will?

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The Colorado statute on contracts affecting wills would seem to allow you to enter into a binding contract with your grandfather wherein he promises not to revoke or amend his will and thereby cancel your inheritance of the cabin.

You will need to provide consideration for his promise. Lets therefore say you promise to, and do, fix the brakes on his truck. Youll want this agreement to be in writing and signed by you and your grandfather.

But what happens if your grandfather breaches the agreement by, say, selling the cabin to a purchaser who knows nothing about your agreement or by amending his will to leave the cabin to one of your cousins?

This suggests you should record the agreement in county real estate records and maybe provide a copy to the personal representative named in your grandfathers will.

Then I wonder if your remedy for your grandfathers breach of the contract is limited to money damages or if you can ask a court for a remedy of specific performance  an order requiring transfer of title to the property to you?

And what happens if, when your grandfather dies, his estate is not sufficient to pay his debts? Can his creditors force his estate to sell the cabin to cover those debts?

There are few reported court decisions addressing contracts affecting a will and what decisions there are seem to be state law specific and inconsistent, leaving many unanswered questions about how contract law and probate law come together to resolve disputes.

What is clear is that contracts affecting wills, while perhaps a useful tool in an estate planning lawyers toolbox, are definitely not do-it-yourself projects.

Business columnist Jim Flynn is with the Colorado Springs law firm Flynn & Wright. He can be contacted at [email protected].
Parents of teenagers know how tough it is to wake them before the crack of noon. Teens never seem to get the eight to 10 hours of sleep that experts say they need.

So, its puzzling that the Syracuse City School District is moving high school start times 25 minutes earlier, to 7:25 a.m., and middle school start times 20 minutes earlier, also 7:25 a.m. Start and dismissal times are changing at 27 of the districts 34 schools when the new school year begins in September.
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There are two axioms that perfectly fit the property tax rip-off going on right now in Colorado.

The first, Fool me once, shame on you. Fool me twice, shame on me.

Voters got conned into repealing the Gallagher Amendment two years ago, realizing only now our property taxes are going through the roof because of it. If they vote for Prop HH this fall, well lose our TABOR refunds forever, yes forever, and then, shame on me.

Well be fooled again.

Which brings us to the second old bromide, History is written by the victors. Although in Colorado the platitude is modified to, Ballot victories are written by lying legislators.

This takes a moment to explain, but its well worth the ride.

When you get your ballot every fall the questions on it are called ballot titles.

When citizens petition to bring something to the ballot, as Ive done several times, we write up a proposed change to law, just like a legislator writes a bill. The bill is way too long for the whole thing to go on the ballot. So, voters get a summary, the ballot title.

Citizens, again like me, by law must bring our bill up to a well-intentioned, but very bureaucratic committee, called the Title Board who come up with what you read on the ballot, the title.

Their mission is to write a title so it explains to voters what the bill theyre voting on really does without that title campaigning for or against the measure.

Now heres where the fun is. By contrast, when the Legislature brings forward a ballot question, their bill doesnt go through the Title Board. They get to write it by themselves!

They write it as deceptively as they like to con voters to vote for it.

This is why voters were suckered into repealing Gallagher.

The Gallagher repeals first sentence said, Without raising property tax rates. The key word being rates. Voters innocently thought that meant it wouldnt raise property taxes.

You see, when your property values go skyrocketing, as they did the last few years, and your property tax rate stays the same, your property tax doesnt stay the same. It also skyrockets! Im oversimplifying, but Gallagher used to lower the property tax rate of your residential property to make sure that property tax was basically the same as the year before, even if your property value went skyrocketing. Pretty cool.

No wonder the Legislature hated it.

The lying ballot title then went on to say how repealing it would (without raising tax rates) fix education, first responders, fire departments and give orphans unicorns.

In the same way, this falls HH, also written by the Legislature, lies. Its first line says Shall the state reduce property taxes  You had me at hello!

Whether HH passes, you are going to have the largest property tax increase in Colorado history. Period. Youre paying the price of repealing Gallagher.

Should HH pass your property tax will be just a tiny bit less than otherwise, kinda, but in exchange you will over time lose your TABOR refunds forever. No TABOR refund checks for you, your kids, their kids, and so on.

HHs Ballot Title doesnt mention that its itsy-bitsy, teeny-weenie property tax reduction comes out of your TABOR refunds. It only says its paid for by, Using a portion of the state surplus.

The lying Legislature doesnt even mention in its ballot title that those state surplus would have gone back to you anyway!

As an amusing side note, I filed an initiative to force the Legislature to go through the Title Board process when bringing something to the ballot, like we citizens must, so they couldnt play these games. My initiative was rejected. The Title Board ruled it had multiple subjects and killed it.

How do they get away without saying HH will take away your TABOR refunds forever? Its clever really.

The state only does budget forecasts for a couple of years ahead. So, there are no TABOR refunds in the future because they refuse to look ahead that far. But since HH keeps property taxes rising whether property values go up or down, it has a compounding effect. The increasing tax take overtakes any surpluses that could be refunded.

You cant fight the math and they know it. Hell, they love it.

Jon Caldara is president of the Independence Institute in Denver and hosts The Devils Advocate with Jon Caldara on Colorado Public Television Channel 12. His column appears Sundays in Colorado Politics.
KharbandaKartik BHPian

Join Date: Aug 2021 Location: Delhi Posts: 36 Thanked: 587 Times

Positive service experiences with Brite koda, Noida



I want to share my bit of experience with Skoda's after-sales service. Before I purchased my car, I had heard a lot of bad things about VW/Skoda, starting from the unreliable injectors, gearbox breakdowns, non-availability of parts, higher cost of maintenance and whatnot! Took a leap of faith and brought home a Kushaq in August 2021.



I was waiting to share my experience with you all since the first service, but I thought I should be giving it more time (more workshop visits), so that whatever I share is more concrete. My experience is only limited to Brite Skoda, Noida.



To start with, my experience so far with Skoda has been good. During my recent service visit, the team stayed at the workshop till 8:00 PM, so that they could deliver my car the same day. Booking the service is easy - you can either call them up directly or book an appointment through the website. I always run through the Skoda service calculator



Positives :

Team is responsive towards any problems being pointed out

No unnecessary add-ons to the service bill

Customer friendly

Negatives :

Time taking service process For problems which aren't common, don't expect a quick resolution The load on the service centres has gone up, and their service centres aren't really capable of attending to a lot of vehicles in a day Some spare parts can be expensive

Before buying the vehicle, I had gone through the prices of spares, just to have an idea of what I was getting into, the prices at that time seemed reasonable to me but recently the prices have gone up quite quickly, for example, the brake pads change is now 4.5k which was around 3k initially. The brake pads for the bigger discs (1.5 TSI) are 7.5 K. These pads are being manufactured in India by TVS. I have come to realise that the spares are going to be definitely more expensive than the rivals.



The service manual skips on a lot of important information, there's no mention of cleaning/service of brakes, throttle body cleaning, transmission oil replacement, coolant replacement, etc and I don't understand what they mean when they say "lifetime coolant". I strongly feel most of the service centres do their best to serve a customer, the problems which a customer may face, is also a lot of times because of the manufacturer itself, the manufacturers are supposed to train the technicians, make sure of the spare part availability, plan their dealerships, due-diligence of a dealer, etc. All the manufacturers have deliberately designed the business in such a way, in case, anything goes wrong, the dealer gets sandwiched. I know someone who works in SAVIPL, Pune, I told her about the fluctuating blower problem in my Kushaq, and whenever I followed up, I was given another date for a solution, now I have been asked to wait till end of August, through this I can now safely assume, that the problems which you and I face, which aren't so common, there's no solution for them from the manufacturer itself and we usually blame the dealer.



Now, for the 45,000 kms service, the engine oil, oil filter, air filter, cabin filter, were replaced, also got the wheel balancing done. The service is time taking though, they take a complete log after the vehicle is serviced, which is submitted to Skoda in real time and takes around 60 mins. The engine oil used is 0W20 Longlife IV, which is green in colour. My power window bounce back was resolved in March 2023, it works as intended. The A/C software was also updated during the March visit and it works better now at lower rpms, not that I had a problem with it to begin with.



My vehicle has been performing flawlessly so far and I am really enjoying the ownership. I have taken it to Ladakh last year



For around a month's time in between I wasn't able to fill 95 octane and could feel a slight loss of power, got back to 95 Octane, and the performance has also resumed. My tyres will be up for a change very soon, they should be good for another 5-7 K kms.



So far everything is bone stock. I bought Morel components last year but didn't fit them yet. My driving has also come down a lot since the time I got into RC flying, it takes up a lot of my free time. We are planning up a road trip to Madhya Pradesh in July this year, let's see how it fares. I'll share my in detail long-term ownership experience once I hit 50K.



Till then, drive safe and have happy holidays. Let me begin this post with a shout-out to each and everyone on the forum, the knowledge, experiences and expertise which we share with each other is priceless.I want to share my bit of experience with Skoda's after-sales service. Before I purchased my car, I had heard a lot of bad things about VW/Skoda, starting from the unreliable injectors, gearbox breakdowns, non-availability of parts, higher cost of maintenance and whatnot! Took a leap of faith and brought home a Kushaq in August 2021.I was waiting to share my experience with you all since the first service, but I thought I should be giving it more time (more workshop visits), so that whatever I share is more concrete. My experience is only limited to Brite Skoda, Noida.To start with,. During my recent service visit, the team stayed at the workshop till 8:00 PM, so that they could deliver my car the same day. Booking the service is easy - you can either call them up directly or book an appointment through the website. I always run through the Skoda service calculator https://www.skoda-auto.co.in/aid/ser...ost-calculator before the visit, so I have an idea about what all has to be done. The team at Brite is cordial and they let me stay with the car during the service and I make sure each and every thing happens in front of me. Can't have it any other way.Positives :Negatives :Before buying the vehicle, I had gone through the prices of spares, just to have an idea of what I was getting into, the prices at that time seemed reasonable to me but recently the prices have gone up quite quickly, for example, the brake pads change is now 4.5k which was around 3k initially. The brake pads for the bigger discs (1.5 TSI) are 7.5 K. These pads are being manufactured in India by TVS. I have come to realise that the spares are going to be definitely more expensive than the rivals.The service manual skips on a lot of important information, there's no mention of cleaning/service of brakes, throttle body cleaning, transmission oil replacement, coolant replacement, etc and I don't understand what they mean when they say "lifetime coolant". I strongly feel most of the service centres do their best to serve a customer, the problems which a customer may face, is also a lot of times because of the manufacturer itself, the manufacturers are supposed to train the technicians, make sure of the spare part availability, plan their dealerships, due-diligence of a dealer, etc. All the manufacturers have deliberately designed the business in such a way, in case, anything goes wrong, the dealer gets sandwiched. I know someone who works in SAVIPL, Pune, I told her about the fluctuating blower problem in my Kushaq, and whenever I followed up, I was given another date for a solution, now I have been asked to wait till end of August, through this I can now safely assume, that the problems which you and I face, which aren't so common, there's no solution for them from the manufacturer itself and we usually blame the dealer.Now, for the 45,000 kms service, the engine oil, oil filter, air filter, cabin filter, were replaced, also got the wheel balancing done. The service is time taking though, they take a complete log after the vehicle is serviced, which is submitted to Skoda in real time and takes around 60 mins. The engine oil used is 0W20 Longlife IV, which is green in colour. My power window bounce back was resolved in March 2023, it works as intended. The A/C software was also updated during the March visit and it works better now at lower rpms, not that I had a problem with it to begin with.My vehicle has been performing flawlessly so far and I am really enjoying the ownership. I have taken it to Ladakh last year https://www.team-bhp.com/forum/trave...da-kushaq.html (3000-km roadtrip to Ladakh in a Skoda Kushaq) and Lahaul & Spiti twice https://www.team-bhp.com/forum/trave...ti-kushaq.html (Winter Spiti in a Kushaq) apart from these trips, it has been to Kinnaur, H.P a few times, to Rajasthan every month or so. This is basically a highway runner, it has spent more than 90% of it's time on the highways. The fuel efficiency hovers in the region of 17-19, it's a manual.For around a month's time in between I wasn't able to fill 95 octane and could feel a slight loss of power, got back to 95 Octane, and the performance has also resumed. My tyres will be up for a change very soon, they should be good for another 5-7 K kms.So far everything is bone stock. I bought Morel components last year but didn't fit them yet. My driving has also come down a lot since the time I got into RC flying, it takes up a lot of my free time. We are planning up a road trip to Madhya Pradesh in July this year, let's see how it fares. I'll share my in detail long-term ownership experience once I hit 50K.Till then, drive safe and have happy holidays. Attached Thumbnails



Last edited by Aditya : 1st July 2023 at 18:42 . Reason: Paragraph composition
AnnaRocks BHPian



Join Date: Apr 2021 Location: Trivandrum Posts: 105 Thanked: 610 Times

Re: Zoom Car Reviews - Self Drive Rentals in India ZOOMCAR & an Old XUV 500 - A rattling combo



For a sudden trip to Mumbai, my friend and I found ourselves in a predicament with limited options and time constraints. Despite a previous positive experience with Zoomcar in their early years, this particular adventure turned into a series of mishaps and left us with a lasting impression. Buckle up as I recount the tale of our ill-fated encounter with Zoomcar and an XUV500 that seemed to have seen better days. Getting the driver profile verified after installing the app was a headache. This was followed by car pickup fiasco. Throughout the process, I got a strong 'Golmal hai bhai sab golmal he' vibe from Hera Pheri.









The following was the car shown on the app for representative purpose(I wondered why the original pic wasn't shown then)









The Dirty Dilemma:

We headed straight to the parking lot after landing. As we approached the car, parked in the dark underground parking of BMC near Mumbai Airport, our enthusiasm began to wane. It was as if we stumbled upon the dirtiest car we had ever travelled, surpassing even some of those leased unkempt Uber/Ola vehicles found in some metros. And to think that we had to spend the next 3 days in this. The level of filth was so extraordinary that my friend flat-out refused to touch the steering wheel, creating an instant bond of disgust between them. Prior to this, I had used Zoomcar years ago, and if my memory serves me right, it was a relatively smooth process when Zoomcar managed the cars themselves. The cars were neat, had those Zoomcar stickers prominently displayed, white and yellow plates etc. However, I must confess that I haven't kept up with what happened to them since then, as I rarely used their services. On a couple of occasions while waiting for the delivery of my new car, I resorted to using EVMwheels, which turned out to be a pleasant experience.

























The Never-Ending Handover:

The process of car handover turned into a lengthy affair, taking a whopping 45 minutes in the humid basement parking. The car itself was a sorry sight, with signs of severe abuse and a nonchalant caretaker who couldn't care less about its condition. As we waited for the car handover and completed the formalities, the combination of the stifling humidity and lack of proper ventilation created a near Sauna bath experience for us. To add insult to injury, he demanded a fuel deposit of Rs. 3500, making us feel like we were being taken for a ride before the ride even began. Nevertheless, pressed for time, we reluctantly transferred the money and embarked on our journey



The Wallet Quest:

Shortly after our departure, the caretaker called in a state of panic, claiming he may have left his wallet in the car. We reluctantly pulled over in the chaotic Mumbai traffic to search for the elusive wallet. Alas, there was no wallet to be found. The caretaker, still flustered, promised to check with other cars he had rented out that day. We resumed our bumpy ride, with my friend expressing his colorful dissatisfaction with the XUV.



The Symphony of Warnings:

As we continued our adventure, the car treated us to a symphony of warning sounds and illuminated warning lights. Confused, we called the caretaker for assistance, only to receive an incredulous response claiming that the car was in perfect condition. We couldn't help but chuckle at the absurdity of the situation. Miraculously, the warnings gradually became less frequent and eventually stopped altogether, granting us a temporary reprieve.



The Bonnet Fiasco:

Just when we thought the comedy of errors had reached its peak, the caretaker called again, suggesting that his wallet might be there in the engine bay. Yes, you read that right. His high levels of hope and equal levels of sheer stupidity led him to believe that a wallet could survive a two-hour drive nestled within an engine compartment. Finding a suitable spot on the highway, we attempted to open the bonnet, only to be met with stubborn resistance. Even the boot had a secret trick to open it, which we learned during the car handover in the basement. We must have looked like amateur detectives trying to crack a case. We even consulted a mechanic at a petrol pump, engaging in video calls and troubleshooting over the phone. Time continued to slip away as we fell further behind schedule.



From Concern to Crankiness:

The caretaker's incessant calls became more aggressive, and that was the tipping point. We decided to put an end to the madness and refused to entertain his increasingly demanding requests. With no refund or apologies forthcoming, we returned the car post our journey to an unfamiliar face in the "Pataal Parking," bidding farewell to our unforgettable Zoomcar experience.



Post-trip, our attempts to address the refund issue with Zoomcar were met with automated bot responses in the app. It seemed like an endless loop of frustration until a glimmer of hope emerged. Finally, a human representative from Zoomcar replied and suggested connecting with the host to settle the refund matters. Unfortunately, the chat option was no longer available in the app since the trip had ended, and the provided phone number yielded no response.

This was the available options in chat which got responses from bot. I saw no other customer service contact number.



Frustrated but resigned, we ultimately decided to let it go, vowing never to embark on another Zoomcar adventure anytime soon, and my friend declared a temporary ban on Mahindra cars in his automotive aspirations.



As we bid adieu to Zoomcar, we couldn't help but reflect on the importance of reliable customer service and the role it plays in shaping our perceptions of a brand. Although this adventure had its fair share of frustrations, it gifted us with a humorous story and a cautionary tale about the perils of last-minute bookings and overlooked car maintenance. For a sudden trip to Mumbai, my friend and I found ourselves in a predicament with limited options and time constraints. Despite a previous positive experience with Zoomcar in their early years, this particular adventure turned into a series of mishaps and left us with a lasting impression. Buckle up as I recount the tale of our ill-fated encounter with Zoomcar and an XUV500 that seemed to have seen better days. Getting the driver profile verified after installing the app was a headache. This was followed by car pickup fiasco. Throughout the process, I got a strong '' vibe from Hera Pheri.The following was the car shown on the app for representative purpose(I wondered why the original pic wasn't shown then)We headed straight to the parking lot after landing. As we approached the car, parked in the dark underground parking of BMC near Mumbai Airport, our enthusiasm began to wane. It was as if we stumbled upon the dirtiest car we had ever travelled, surpassing even some of those leased unkempt Uber/Ola vehicles found in some metros. And to think that we had to spend the next 3 days in this.The level of filth was so extraordinary that my friend flat-out refused to touch the steering wheel, creating an instant bond of disgust between them. Prior to this, I had used Zoomcar years ago, and if my memory serves me right, it was a relatively smooth process when Zoomcar managed the cars themselves. The cars were neat, had those Zoomcar stickers prominently displayed, white and yellow plates etc. However, I must confess that I haven't kept up with what happened to them since then, as I rarely used their services. On a couple of occasions while waiting for the delivery of my new car, I resorted to using EVMwheels, which turned out to be a pleasant experience.The process of car handover turned into a lengthy affair, taking a whopping 45 minutes in the humid basement parking. The car itself was a sorry sight, with signs of severe abuse and a nonchalant caretaker who couldn't care less about its condition. As we waited for the car handover and completed the formalities, the combination of the stifling humidity and lack of proper ventilation created a near Sauna bath experience for us. To add insult to injury, he demanded a fuel deposit of Rs. 3500, making us feel like we were being taken for a ride before the ride even began. Nevertheless, pressed for time, we reluctantly transferred the money and embarked on our journeyShortly after our departure, the caretaker called in a state of panic, claiming he may have left his wallet in the car. We reluctantly pulled over in the chaotic Mumbai traffic to search for the elusive wallet. Alas, there was no wallet to be found. The caretaker, still flustered, promised to check with other cars he had rented out that day. We resumed our bumpy ride, with my friend expressing his colorful dissatisfaction with the XUV.As we continued our adventure, the car treated us to a symphony of warning sounds and illuminated warning lights. Confused, we called the caretaker for assistance, only to receive an incredulous response claiming that the car was in perfect condition. We couldn't help but chuckle at the absurdity of the situation. Miraculously, the warnings gradually became less frequent and eventually stopped altogether, granting us a temporary reprieve.Just when we thought the comedy of errors had reached its peak, the caretaker called again, suggesting that his wallet might be there in the engine bay. Yes, you read that right. His high levels of hope and equal levels of sheer stupidity led him to believe that a wallet could survive a two-hour drive nestled within an engine compartment. Finding a suitable spot on the highway, we attempted to open the bonnet, only to be met with stubborn resistance. Even the boot had a secret trick to open it, which we learned during the car handover in the basement. We must have looked like amateur detectives trying to crack a case. We even consulted a mechanic at a petrol pump, engaging in video calls and troubleshooting over the phone. Time continued to slip away as we fell further behind schedule.The caretaker's incessant calls became more aggressive, and that was the tipping point. We decided to put an end to the madness and refused to entertain his increasingly demanding requests. With no refund or apologies forthcoming, we returned the car post our journey to an unfamiliar face in the "Pataal Parking," bidding farewell to our unforgettable Zoomcar experience.Post-trip, our attempts to address the refund issue with Zoomcar were met with automated bot responses in the app. It seemed like an endless loop of frustration until a glimmer of hope emerged. Finally, a human representative from Zoomcar replied and suggested connecting with the host to settle the refund matters. Unfortunately, the chat option was no longer available in the app since the trip had ended, and the provided phone number yielded no response.This was the available options in chat which got responses from bot. I saw no other customer service contact number.Frustrated but resigned, we ultimately decided to let it go, vowing never to embark on another Zoomcar adventure anytime soon, and my friend declared a temporary ban on Mahindra cars in his automotive aspirations.As we bid adieu to Zoomcar, we couldn't help but reflect on the importance of reliable customer service and the role it plays in shaping our perceptions of a brand. Although this adventure had its fair share of frustrations, it gifted us with a humorous story and a cautionary tale about the perils of last-minute bookings and overlooked car maintenance. Last edited by AnnaRocks : 29th June 2023 at 20:13 .
The Russian military has allegedly deployed bottlenose dolphins to protect the Black Sea naval stronghold at Sevastopol. These specially trained marine creatures safeguard the vital military station from divers approaching since dolphins can detect divers and notify their handlers due to their speed and diving ability.

The number of enclosures holding the trained dolphins has lately increased, according to the UK Ministry of Defense, suggesting an increase in hiring these clever animals.

Dolphins can efficiently alert their handlers to the presence of underwater intruders. They may even help tag them for easy identification, even if they won't engage in direct battle with divers, per Science Alert. According to current estimates, up to seven dolphins may be working in the port area, and they are readily moved about the site utilizing crates made explicitly for boats.

Dolphin Patrollers

One element of the complete defensive system defending the Sevastopol naval facility is the deployment of dolphins. The base is fortified with anti-torpedo nets, depth charge systems, and rocket launchers. Divers will encounter the difficult barrier the watchful dolphins offers if they can get beyond these levels of defense.

The Russian Black Sea Navy has been the target of several drone strikes ever since the Kremlin invaded Ukraine in 2022, as per a Politico report. These instances led to increased security measures, which included including dolphins in the defensive plan.

Sevastopol, which is in Crimea and was taken by Moscow in 2014, is strategically vital to Russia. The facility holds weak Russian ships that are safe from missile attacks but yet susceptible to attacks from below the water's surface.

Read Also: VIDEO: Ukrainian Soldier Shoots Down Russian Su-25 Jet with Shoulder-Held Missile

What Makes Dolphins Effective?

Due to dolphins' ability to detect underwater things like mines using echolocation during the Cold War, the United States and the Soviet Union studied using dolphins, according to The Guardian.

With nearly $28 million invested, the US has continued a study involving dolphins and sea lions that might enhance military activities. Additionally, Ukraine had a dolphin training program close to Sevastopol that was resurrected in 2012 but was taken over by Russia after the 2014 annexation of Crimea.

Marine creatures have more considerable natural talents compared to robots when it comes to identifying underwater dangers, despite substantial recent advances in military technology. The US Navy unveiled intentions in 2012 to progressively end its use of marine mammals and replace them with robots. Over $90 million in significant money was allotted for research to deliver military robots by 2017. However, such robotic systems have yet to be implemented.

The US Navy's official website stated that although underwater drones may soon be able to carry out these tasks, the present technology cannot compete with the extraordinary talents of marine creatures.

The extraordinary swimming abilities of bottlenose dolphins, which can swim up to 18 miles (29 kilometers) per hour, have earned them worldwide acclaim. Even the most skilled human divers cannot match dolphins' agility, making them an effective deterrent against covert underwater assaults.

There have been hints of Russian military interaction with dolphins in areas other than Sevastopol. Their use at the Tartus naval port in Syria during the Syrian conflict was evident from satellite photography.

In addition, claims of a beluga whale that may have been trained by the Russian military being observed off the coast of Norway surfaced in 2019. Fishermen observed the beluga whale sporting strange trappings, indicating cameras and disrupting their boats.

Related Article: Archaeologists Launch Quest to Find Burial Site of Fabled 19th-Century Elephant

 2023 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
An orbital satellite developed in Europe was launched from Florida on a mission to investigate the enigmatic cosmic phenomena known as dark energy and dark matter, which, according to scientists, make up 95% of the cosmos we can see.

Saturday's SpaceX flight launched the Euclid Observatory on a 1.5 million kilometers journey near the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST). Euclid will begin its ambitious six-year study in the following autumn season after a month-long voyage.

German flight controllers cheered and applauded when the telescope communicated soon after liftoff. The main task of Euclid, named after the eminent Greek mathematician of antiquity, is to painstakingly scan the billions of galaxies that make up more than one-third of the universe, according to Euronews.

The two significant elements of the dark universe are the focus of the Euclid telescope's ground-breaking mission, which costs $1.4 billion. The first is dark matter, an enigmatic cosmic framework thought to impact development substantially and define the universe's structure while being unseen. The second is dark energy, an equally mysterious component discovered in the 1990s and assumed to be the cause of the universe's expansion's continued acceleration, according to Al Jazeera.

A partner in the Euclid project, NASA, is also ready to use its next Roman Space Telescope to investigate the mysteries of dark energy and matter. Additionally, experts anticipate that the US-European Webb telescope will help this joint effort.

What is Euclid's Next Move?

As the Euclid telescope has arrived at its destination in space and started communicating with Earth, its first goal is to adjust its course toward L2 (Lagrangian point 2). This crucial alignment phase will occur about two days after launch, with ongoing checks to ensure Euclid stays on course.

Read Also: How Russian Military Dolphins Safeguard Black Sea Naval Base at Sevastopol

In the next month, Euclid will go to L2, where it will gradually acclimate to the extreme cold of space while undergoing meticulous system and instrument inspections. Engineers will evaluate Euclid versus ground-based expectations in months 2 and 3, perhaps releasing calibration photos, per Space.com.

Giuseppe Racca, project manager for Euclid, said that after three months, the mission "should be ready to start scientific observations." However, some precise calibrations would still be needed. If testing goes well and there are no significant problems, Euclid should be completely operational in eight months.

Scientists Express Confidence

The calibration approach is comparable to that of NASA's James Webb Space Telescope (JWST), which underwent a similar process to L2 but with slight calibration difficulties. Euclid will scan large sky areas to analyze light bending around stars and galaxies, a vital sign of the dark universe. The JWST studies tiny parts of the cosmos.

The Euclid team places a premium on image quality since even seemingly unimportant elements like humidity may have an impact. Racca observed the irony of Euclid's launch from Florida on a usually cloudy July day, when a few nanometers of water ice on the optics may significantly affect picture quality.

A backup strategy is in place if Euclid experiences moisture contamination. Rene Laureijs, the project scientist, highlighted the difficulties in fixing such problems. The expert noted that they had to heat the two-ton satellite and cool it down again to eliminate the moisture if they encountered contamination. Laureijis is confident they could accomplish that, but it would interfere with the mission timetable.

Related Article: NASA Targets Lunar Mining Trial Within Next Decade

 2023 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
We are mad as heck on Colorado roads.

Colorado is the third-worst state in the country for confrontational drivers, and fully a quarter of drivers know someone who has been injured by an aggressive driver. The Colorado State Patrol reported over 31,000 calls to their hotline about road rage incidents in 2022.

Individual factors like personal attitudes and bad driving habits can lead to road rage. But there are other reasons for anger, frustration and dangers on Colorados roads. Here are the Big Three in my estimation.

Gridlock

Colorado ranks just outside the bottom third in the country for road congestion, wasting motorists 23 hours per year in traffic. But thats the statewide average. Denver commuters lose 62 hours, and Springs drivers waste 44 hours, costing more than $1,000 per vehicle each year.

All that time idling in traffic also creates 2 billion pounds of carbon emissions each year. The solution is not to take all cars off the road, but to let them move more efficiently. Switching over completely to electric cars would reduce tailpipe emissions but not fix congestion or save time.

Colorados recent efforts to reduce road congestion, including forced urbanization (SB23-213) and increased funding for failing public transportation (SB23-180), are a violation of both property rights and individual freedom. Centralized planning conflicts with the ethos of Coloradans and never measures up to its overblown promises.

Rough roads

We have all experienced that moment when we hit a pothole and think well crack a tooth or damage our cars suspension. 47% of our major roads are in poor or mediocre condition. Colorado ranks in the bottom seven states in the nation for overall road conditions and cost effectiveness, according to the Reason Foundations 2023 Annual Highway Report. Thats a decline of seven places since 2016.

More than 8% of our rural interstate pavement is in poor condition, but thats not necessarily a sign of the blue parts of Colorado ignoring the red parts. Almost 7% of urban interstate roads are bad, too. Driving on bad roads costs us $2.9 billion a year in vehicle repairs, accelerated depreciation, fuel consumption and tire wear.

CDOT has a budget of $1.55 billion. Where is all the money going? We have the 11th highest ratio of administrative costs, and the 43rd worst efficiency in spending on maintenance, and some of the worst roads in America. Baruch Feigenbaum, lead author of the Reason highway report, says, Colorado has the fourth highest percentage of poor rural Interstate pavement. Colorados spending numbers are average-high and its overall pavement quality is average-poor. For the amount the state spends, the pavement quality should be better.

CDOT cant blame everything on frost heave and mountain snow. States with similar topography and weather like Utah and Wyoming rank near the top of the national list for good roads.

High drivers

Driver impairment is also a significant factor in road rage incidents. But lets call it what it is  driving drunk and stoned. In 2019, of all Colorado drivers charged with DUI, 47% tested positive for Delta-9 THC, and 19% tested positive for both alcohol and THC. Drivers who are drunk and high are significantly more likely to speed on residential streets and drive aggressively than those impaired only by alcohol, according to AAA.

Further, 17% of marijuana users admit to driving within 2 to 3 hours of consuming THC. Open your car window on many streets in Denver and you are likely to see and smell puffs of marijuana smoke from vehicles around you. High drivers are twice as likely to be involved in a crash, and 1 in 4 traffic deaths in Colorado involves THC. Proponents of legalization introduced stoned driving to the state, but they do not seem to be leading on efforts to address the deadly epidemic.

It is about time that the Governor and legislative leaders get serious about addressing the crisis of Colorados roads, from congestion to road repair to impaired driving. After discussions last fall with transportation industry leaders, GOP gubernatorial candidate Heidi Ganahl proposed spending $10 billion on Colorado roads.

That seems like a good place to start the conversation when the state legislatures joint transportation committee meets in July.

Tom Copeland, Ph.D., is director of research at the Centennial Institute in Lakewood, where he writes on public policy and the intersection of faith, culture, and politics. The views expressed are those of the author and do not represent Colorado Christian University or Centennial Institute.
Did the lioness come from private keeping? In Germany, this is hardly regulated

Are you staying in August in Madrid? 10 good restaurants to enjoy all month

Marseille: four police officers indicted for violence in assembly, one placed in provisional detention

Did the lioness come from private keeping? In Germany, this is hardly regulated

Chen Duling: On the road of actor's cultivation, the original intention is my "power code"

The controversial documentary about the death and last hours of Mario Biondo, the husband of Raquel Sanchez Silva, arrives on Netflix

The drama "Golden Lock" led by "Queen of Hong Kong Stage Plays" Jiao Yuan will return to the Beijing Lao She Theater Festival

80-year-old man "news village broadcast" for 25 years "sound" into the hearts of the people, you are insisting on it

This was the agony of Pogacar in La Loze: "Tadej, we must suffer"

After being awarded a controversial penalty and withdrawing from the game in tears, Zhang Shuai waited to apologize

(Women's World Cup) Preview: The United States, Japan and Britain are safe to win, and the Chinese team faces the crucial battle

LIVE - Tour de France: the riders have an appointment in the Jura for the 19th stage

On People's Bank of China 25, the National Treasure (Dawn of Civilization) gold and silver commemorative coins will be issued

Zhongxin True Detective | Research Center of the State-owned Assets Supervision and Administration Commission of the State Council: It has nothing to do with this company

Seven departments: accelerate the innovation of electronic product technology and continue to promote home appliances to the countryside

State Administration of Foreign Exchange: The medium- and long-term development pattern of China's current account surplus maintaining a reasonable size surplus will not change

Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security: Do everything possible to promote the employment and entrepreneurship of young college graduates

The construction of China's first high-speed railway directly to the Sino-Vietnamese border has entered the final stage

Two official articles were issued in a row to promote the consumption of automobiles and electronics

The fourth anniversary of the opening of the Science and Technology Innovation Board: Adhere to the positioning of "hard technology" and cultivate a group of high-growth enterprises

North Korea/South Korea: U.S. soldier piled up from the airport  and then across the border

Sanchez calls nationalism an "outdated ideology" but would rely on them again

Taiwan's "Internet experts" enter Xinjiang: using short videos to build a new bridge between the two sides of the strait

The maintenance scale of 8 branches and tributary channels of the Yangtze River trunk line was dynamically released

Ministry of Public Security: Strengthen supervision of website platforms Seriously pursue the responsibility of parties involved in the publication and dissemination of online rumors

The repercussions of the desecration of the Qur'an in Stockholm. Demonstrations in Iraq and Al-Azhar calls for a boycott of Swedish products

Three activists arrested for sneaking into Ibiza airport sticking to a private jet and spraying it with paint

RaHDit hackers published the routes of ships from which they could hit the Crimean bridge

The astonishing data of the time trial in which Vingegaard swept Pogacar: "He scored more watts than expected"

After her return to the Arabic language. Is the relationship between Mali and France over forever?

The situation in the morning - A lion is loose in the summer slump. Navalny in prison. Stress in the German open

Ministry of Public Security: Shut down more than 2,1 illegal accounts in accordance with the law

 Communities 2019 - Privacy

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America, since 1787, has had a distinctive system of federalism. A number of responsibilities, such as national defense, are clearly given to the national government, but a substantial number of policy decisions rest with the 50 states.

Governors and state legislatures have been especially active in the past year. In many states, public policies have been enacted that push states politically to the far right or far left.

Colorado is just one example. Democrats took advantage of favorable gerrymandering and pushed through progressive legislation by raising the age limit to buy a gun. They acted on transgender rights by requiring gender-neutral bathrooms in new public buildings. They protected the right to abortion in most circumstances.

According to reports in The New York Times, what was happening in Colorado also happened in about 16 other states where Democrats dominated both houses of the Legislature and controlled the governors office.

Such a situation, where all three major power points  House of Representatives, Senate and governor  are controlled by one political party is nicknamed a trifecta.

Meanwhile, Republicans in at least 22 states, where they are in control of the Legislature and the governorship, were using their power to legislate on similar subjects but to push in a different direction  a decidedly conservative direction.

Republican trifectas pushed for enacting strict anti-abortion laws, putting curriculum restrictions in public schools, enacting gay and lesbian rights regulations, and a doubling down on gun rights.

Or put it this way: Democratic-controlled legislatures and governors limited guns, but Republican-controlled legislatures and governors made it easier to carry guns in public places. Democratic legislatures and governors expanded transgender rights, while Republican legislatures and governors limited them. Democratic legislatures and governors facilitated abortions, but Republican legislatures and governors made abortions harder to get.

The New York Times report used the term bulldozed to describe how the dominant party, whether Democratic or Republican, forced its legislation on the other political party. It also theorized that the taking of strong stands on the nations thorniest social issues left significant portions of a states electorate, particularly moderate and unaffiliated voters, unrepresented.

States listed in the report as single-party control Democratic included California, Illinois, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, New York, Washington and Colorado.

Some of the states listed as Republican dominated were Florida, Iowa, Mississippi, Montana, North Carolina, North Dakota, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas and Wyoming.

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What is the meaning of this for Colorado?

Our Legislature is gerrymandered to favor Democrats. They have 30 safe seats in the House compared with 19 for Republicans. In the Senate, the tally is 15 safe Democratic seats and nine safe Republican. The Democrats also hold the governors office.

But Colorado is not exceptional; in fact, it is normal. Add 17 states dominated by Democrats to 22 states dominated by Republicans, and you get 39 of 50 states where one political party or the other has a clear advantage.

In only the remaining 11 states are Republicans and Democrats able to compete evenly for power or produce laws that have a chance of being moderate, neither far left nor far right.

It presents a confusing future in which, as one travels from state to state, abortion laws can change from permissive to strict, transgender rights be strong or nonexistent, and automatic weapons can be legal on one side of a state line and illegal on the other.

Coloradans should be aware of what is happening with state legislatures and governors nationwide. We are seeing more political polarization, with 17 liberal and progressive Democratic state governments on one side and 22 arch-conservative Republican state governments on the other.

But this is American federalism at work. At the Constitutional Convention in Philadelphia in 1787, a compromise was reached that gave some powers to the national government and reserved others to the states, That compromise is still with us.

We do not want a heavily centralized top-down governmental system. But the price we pay for that is diversity and complexity within our individual states. And right now, many of our states are tacking strongly left or decidedly right, depending on their ideological leanings.

The bottom line is a patchworky system that is likely to remain this way for a significant time to come.

News columnists Tom Cronin and Bob Loevy write about Colorado and national political issues.
Like the general public, East Baton Rouge Parish School Board members are torn when it comes to Sito Narcisse, the man they hired 29 months ago to lead the school system, with some members rating the superintendent as doing nearly a perfect job and others deeply critical.

The last time they had the chance, three members rated Narcisse extremely highly  two of them giving him perfect scores  while three others rated him relatively poorly. Two other board members gave him good overall ratings, but pointed to areas they thought the veteran educator could improve. And finally, one board member opted not to complete the evaluation.

See the documents yourself: Here are the performance evaluation scores and how to read them
For days after Hurricane Ida, Chandra Straws New Orleans neighborhood was choked by waves of thick, black smoke. She stopped going outside, preferring the dark and stifling heat of her home, one of thousands that lost power after the 2021 storm. She shut the windows and stuffed blankets under the doors, but the fumes crept in, eventually forcing her to do what Idas winds and torrential rains hadnt.
University students enrolled in arts degrees are shunning traditional English and history majors as the number of undergraduates taking those subjects tumbles to a 10-year low.

National data showed the number of arts students choosing history majors plunged by a third in the past decade, while enrolments in literature had fallen by more than a quarter.

English honours student Abeni Termytelen, who is studying at the University of Sydney. Credit: Louise Kennerley

Almost 4500 fewer undergraduate arts students were enrolled in 2021 across both subjects when compared with 2011, a downturn academics said was a result of a shift to job-ready, skills-based courses, humanities fee hikes and the influence of technology.

The change in our attention spans and move to visual storytelling has put huge pressure on us, said Jesper Gulddal, an English lecturer at the University of Newcastle.
The Australian sharemarket has started the new financial year on the front foot as miners and consumer companies climbed after a rally on Wall Street.

The S&P/ASX 200 was up 42.8 points, or 0.6 per cent, to 7246.1 at the close, despite information technology stocks underperforming during the session.

Novus Capital senior adviser Gary Glover said while strong US markets helped buoy the Australian sharemarket on Monday, all eyes were on the Reserve Banks next rates decision.

Markets recovered from a shake-out last week, Glover said. Retailers bounced back strongly after getting murdered in the past few weeks but if the RBA lifts rates by another 25 basis points, therell be a squeeze on markets.

Read the full update.
Animal rights protesters have stormed a Perth restaurant after it controversially banned vegans following a customer complaint about the lack of meat and dairy-free options on its menu last month.

Notorious protester Natasha Peterson was filmed on Friday night entering Fyre in Connolly and shouting at diners and UK celebrity chef owner John Mountain.

The sound you hear now are pigs screaming for their lives inside carbon dioxide gas chambers, youre responsible for their murder if you are not vegan.

You have blood on your hands, psychopaths.
A shooting in downtown Colorado Springs Saturday evening left one person in serious condition, but police two days later were able to provide little other information.

Police responded to a call around 8:15 p.m. reporting that a person had been shot in the area of East Bijou Street and North Tejon Street. Officers found one person with an apparent gunshot wound, police.

The victim was driving a vehicle at the time of the shooting and caused several traffic crashes, according to police.

The regional manager for the Dos Dos restaurant told Gazette news partner KKTV that she was just happy everyone in the nearby restaurant was safe.

"I mean its just kind of surreal to think about that," Jacinda Gallegos said. "It was right next to a place that me and my staff and everyone frequents on a daily basis. Its just crazy to think that it can be so close to you.

The shooting happened as hundreds of tourists and locals made for a typical, busy summer downtown scene.

Police said they believe the incident started a few blocks away, and that a woman was driving a car during the shooting and as a result crashed into other vehicles.

It appears after the shooting the car veered off on Tejon starting at Cimarron all the way to location here at Bijou, Larry Dyer, a sargent with the Colorado Springs Police Department, told KKTV.

On Monday, police spokesman Robert Tornabene said he did not have an exact number of vehicles that had been hit.

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The driver was transported to a local hospital and is in serious but stable condition, police said.

According to Tornabene, "there have been arrests related the shooting" as of Monday, but suspect information was not given.

He said the investigation is ongoing and that police cannot comment further on the events that led to the shooting.

The police department also could not provide an update on the victim's latest condition as of Monday afternoon.
Ukrainians watched with glee as Russia flirted with civil war on June 24. They had hoped that Yevgeny Prigozhins march on Moscow would tie up Russian troops and destabilise Vladimir Putins regime. Alas, the insurrection proved short-lived. In recent days Ukraines army has made modest advances in the east. But a counteroffensive that began on June 4 shows little sign of breaking through Russian lines in force any time soon, making some Western officials nervous.

Still, Ukraine has made some hay with the disarray next door. Its army made striking progress in the eastern town of Bakhmut, which Prigozhins Wagner Group had captured only last month after almost a year of fighting. Ukrainian forces now threaten to encircle Russian defenders from the north and south. Volodymyr Zelensky, Ukraines president, hailed a happy day after visiting front lines on June 26. Russia responded with a dinner-time missile strike on a popular restaurant in Kramatorsk on June 27, 30 kilometres from the front line. It killed at least eight people, including three children.

Ukrainian servicemen fire mortar towards Russian positions at the frontline near Bakhmut, Credit: AP

The aim of Ukraines offensive towards Bakhmut appears less to enter the city than to surround it. We can now hit any point in the city and on the approaches  We are working to cut off their logistics, says Denys Yaroslavksy, a special-forces officer fighting to the north of Bakhmut. Serhiy Cherevaty, a military spokesman, confirmed that a number of brigades advanced around Bakhmut by about two kilometres on the day of Prigozhins mutiny.

The front lines shifted elsewhere, too. Ukraines capture of territory in the western suburbs of Donetsk city was especially telling: troops crossed into territory which Russia had captured in 2015, during its first invasion of Ukraine. Farther west, in the Kherson region, Ukrainian forces established small bridgeheads above and below the partially destroyed Kakhovka dam. Some officials suggest that Ukraine may be able to conduct a more serious crossing of the rapidly desiccating Kakhovka reservoir in the weeks to come.
At 1.12am on Sunday (AEST), the Euclid spacecraft launched into its mission to chart the history of our universe as far back as 10 billion years ago.

The space telescope, built by the European Space Agency, will use its instruments to record more than one-third of the extragalactic sky over the next six years, creating the most accurate 3D map of the cosmos to date.

A SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket, with the European Space Agency Euclid space telescope, lifts off from pad 40 at the Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Cape Canaveral, Florida, on July 1. Credit: AP

Researchers plan to use Euclids map to explore how dark matter and dark energy  mysterious stuff that makes up 95 per cent of our universe  have influenced what we see when we look out across space and time.

Euclid is coming at a really interesting time in the history of cosmology, said Jason Rhodes, a physicist at NASAs Jet Propulsion Laboratory who leads Euclids US science team. We are entering a time when Euclid is going to be great at answering questions that are just now emerging. And I am certain that Euclid is going to be fantastic for answering questions we havent even thought of.
In most Western countries, the ideals of our societies are works in progress, to put it as nicely as possible, and of course many of those over the centuries who have wound up on the wrong side of the ledger dont think the niceness is necessary. We may be at the cusp of a new era where this reality is ignored  and progress reversed.

The US Supreme Court made plain its status as a coldly atavistic force in the countrys social landscape last week. It did it by turning away from, by refusing to give notice to, the vulnerable and victimised. Thats not what the phrase justice is blind is supposed to mean.

Same old story ... context is everything. Black Americans carry signs for equal rights, integrated schools, decent housing, and an end to bias in the early 1960s. Credit: Buyenlarge

The most far-reaching of the several rulings it released effectively outlaws affirmative action at universities in America. The case, brought against Harvard and the University of North Carolina, brought to an end the measures institutions of higher learning take to diversify their student bodies. (To be blunt, thats a euphemism for admit more African-American students than their strict admissions standards would otherwise permit.) The court, in an opinion written by Chief Justice John Roberts, flatly outlawed race as a consideration in university admissions.

Ive seen the admissions debate over my whole life. I can offer some insight into how this radical overturning of a core societal precept was allowed to happen. It began in 1978 when a prospective medical student named Allan Bakke, who was white, sued the University of California (which I attended), arguing that he was excluded by less-qualified black students.
Nutson's Auto News Weekly Wrap-up June 25-July 1, 2023













Auto Central July 2, 2023; Every Sunday Larry Nutson, The Chicago Car Guy and Auto Channel Executive Producer, with able assistance from senior editor Thom Cannell from The Auto Channel Michigan Bureau, compile The Auto Channel's "take" on this past week's automotive news, condensed into easy to digest news Nuggets.

LEARN MORE: Complete versions of today's news nuggets, along with thousands of pages of relevant news and opinions, information stored in a million-page library published and indexed on The Auto Channel during the past 25 years. Complete information can be found by copying a headline and inserting it into any Site Search Box.

Nutson's Auto News Weekly Wrap-up June 25-July 1, 2023.

* More than 50 million Americans are expected to travel for the July 4 holiday weekend, the most travelers to ever hit the road for the holiday. In total, 50.7 million Americans will travel 50 miles or more over the holiday period from Friday, June 30, to Tuesday, July 4, according to AAA. Thats more than the previous July 4 record of 49 million travelers set in 2019, and 2.1 million more travelers than 2022. Most travelers will hit the road with 43.2 million travelers expected to drive to their destinations.

* Despite growing interest, a gap exists between consumer enthusiasm for electric vehicles (EVs) and their actual purchasing decisions, according to new research released by Cox Automotive. The 2023 Path to EV Adoption: Consumer and Dealer Perspectives study also reveals a lack of EV readiness among U.S. automotive dealers regarding sales and service. As EV inventories continue to climb, dealers must bridge this gap. The study highlights key findings, such as: 51% of consumers are now considering either a new or used EV, up from 38% in 2021. Yet, while interest in EVs rapidly increases, the gap between consideration and sales remains wide; 53% of consumers feel EVs are the future and will largely replace gas engines over time, compared to only 31% of dealers; Despite concerns, dealers see electric vehicles as important to the growth of their dealerships, both in selling (55%) and servicing (57%) EVs. However, the study reveals that dealerships need more support and guidance from automakers. https://www.coxautoinc.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Path-to-EV-Adoption-Study-Summary-June-2023.pdf

* Reuters reports ruptures in what once looked like a Washington-Auto industry consensus on EV policy broke open this week. The Alliance for Automotive Innovation, the trade group representing the Detroit Three and most other major automakers in the United States, called the Biden Administrations proposals to push EVs to two-thirds of the U.S. market by 2032 neither reasonable nor achievable. To understand whats behind the Alliance message, look at the $3 billion Ford says it will lose on EVs this year alone. Less than a week before, United Auto Workers union President Shawn Fain blasted the Biden administration for giving Ford and its battery partners $9.2 billion in low-cost, federally-subsidized loans to build three U.S. battery factories. The Alliance proposed returning to a 50% EV goal with more flexibility to allow for plug-in hybrids and account for obstacles such as inadequate charging or lack of domestic battery minerals.

* We read from SAE International, by the end of 2023 there will be 10 Chinese electric passenger vehicles using advanced semi-solid-state batteries (ASSB)  an industry-first application for EVs and a milestone for vehicle electrification, according to Paul Haelterman, North American VP at Autodatas, a vehicle benchmarking and research firm. The EV models coming in China will have an estimaged driving range of 1000 km (621 miles) and a battery recharge time of 10 minutes to achieve 80% state of charge, Haelterman said. We note, EVs will improve over time with the second and third generation of a model offering imporved customer satisfaction.







* Reuters reports GM has dropped the promised $39,000 version of its electric Silverado pickup truck. The initial electric Silverado models, due to start production in a few weeks, will start at $77,905, excluding shipping charges. They also will not have on-board charging ports compatible with Tesla Superchargers. Those arrive in 2025.

* We read in USA Today governments on both coasts of the U.S. want to persuade the small percentage of drivers who use the most gas to switch to electric vehicles  and some leaders are taking the first steps toward incentives to make it happen. Research shows the top 10% of drivers in the U.S. use almost one-third of the nation's gas. These noncommercial drivers log long miles, sometimes in inefficient vehicles like SUVs and trucks, guzzling serious amounts of gas and producing a lot of carbon dioxide. Research findings spelled it out: Gasoline accounts for one-sixth of U.S. carbon emissions, and U.S. drivers burn 35% of all the gasoline in the world. 10% of U.S. drivers burn 32% of all gasoline. These "superusers" burn on average 1,500 gallons of gas a year compared with regular users' 409 gallons. Ed Note: Plug-in Vehicles (PHEV) Using Flex-Fuel Instead Of Polluting Gasoline Create Less Emissions Than An Electric Vehicle Without The Stupidity Of Battery Power

* Lordstown Motors shares plummeted after the electric-vehicle maker filed for bankruptcy. The move to seek Chapter 11 protection from creditors follows a protracted dispute with iPhone maker Foxconn Technology over a deal to make pickup trucks for Lordstown at an assembly plant in Ohio. The Taiwanese manufacturer had said it was prepared to pull out of their production partnership, prompting the EV startup to warn it could fail if it was unable to resolve the conflict. The troubled EV manufacturer also sued Foxconn for breach of contract. In its complaint, Lordstown alleged Foxconn consistently failed to honor its agreements and forced it into bankruptcy.

* SAE International confirmed today that it will standardize the Tesla-developed North American Charging Standard (NACS) charging connector for EVs. The global engineering organization that engages nearly 200,000 engineers, technical experts and volunteers said in a press release that it will work to help with deployment of the NACS connector, an alternative to the longstanding SAE J1772 Combined Charging System (CCS) connector, after Ford, General Motors and a number of EV public-charging equipment suppliers recently indicated they intend to adopt the NACS connector design.

* And this: Electric Volvo car drivers will get access to 12,000 Tesla Superchargers across the United States, Canada and Mexico as Volvo Cars adopts North American Charging Standard.

* Joe White for Reuters brought to our attention that J.D. Power in a study says when it comes to reliability, no other provider is even close to Tesla. Through the first quarter of this year, 21.6% of EV drivers visiting non-Telsa public charging stations were unable to charge their vehicle. Among Tesla drivers using the Tesla Supercharger network, that number falls to just 3.9%.

* And finally, Electrify America announced today it will add the North American Charging Standard (NACS) connector to Electrify America and Electrify Canadas fast charging networks as part of the companys commitment to broaden charging solutions for electric vehicle (EV) drivers today and in the future. Electrify America will continue to provide the Combined Charging System (CCS-1) connector throughout its network as it transitions to also support automakers adding NACS charging ports. The company will work to offer a NACS connector option at existing and future charging stations by 2025 to make charging as convenient as possible for EV owners.

* Drivers in New York City will be charged extra in tolls to enter Manhattan south of 60th Street as part of a long-stalled congestion pricing plan. Congestion pricing in New York City has cleared its final federal hurdle, officials said, all but ensuring that the first such program in the nation will begin next year with the aim of reducing traffic and pollution in Manhattan and funding improvements to mass transit.

* The Detroit News reports former Audi boss Rupert Stadler was convicted of fraud in connection with the automaker's diesel emissions scandal, making him the highest-ranking executive found guilty over cars that cheated on emissions tests with the help of illegal software. A German court handed Stadler a suspended prison sentence of 21 months and ordered him to pay a fine of 1.1 million euros ($1.2 million), some of which will go to charitable groups. The sentence resulted from an agreement between his lawyers, the judge and prosecutors after he pleaded guilty last month. Three other Audi engineers have been found guilty and received sentences. It is the first criminal trial to conclude in Germany in connection with the diesel emissions scandal.

* On June 30, 1953, the first Chevrolet Corvette was built. Just six months after its General Motors Motorama debut at the Waldorf-Astoria in New York, the popular Corvette concept became a production car. The first Corvettes were largely hand-built at GMs plant in Flint, Michigan. Just 300 examples were produced, all of which were Polo White with a red interior. Happy 70th Birthday! Corvette Museum 70th Birthday Celebration

* The 2023 Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, the 101st running of the Race to the Clouds, has concluded. In the Unlimited class, Robin Schute set the fastest time of the event in his 2018 Wolf TSC-FS with a time of 8:40.080.

* Gerald C. Meyers, who went from top product engineer to CEO at American Motors Corp. during an era that produced the AMC Pacer and Gremlin vehicles, died on June 19. Meyers, 94, died of natural causes at his home in West Bloomfield, Michigan according to family.

* We wish all a safe and happy Independence Day weekend!

Stay safe. Be Well.
2023 Lexus IS 500 Review By Larry Nutson

2023 Lexus IS 500

Lots of show and go

By Larry Nutson

Executive Editor and Bureau Chief

Chicago Bureau

THE AUTO CHANNEL

Apparently among the Lexus cognoscenti the color Grecian Water is a topic of conversation.

Grecian Water is the blue exterior color of the IS 500 that is the subject of this review.

As I walked out of a shop where I had left our kitchen knives for sharpening I noticed a red Porsche 911 parked behind the IS 500. The Porsche owner was eyeing the Lexus. I offered to swap cars, with a smile on my face. Of course, I couldnt because the IS 500 was not mine to swap, it being on loan to me.

It turned out the Porsche driver had an IS 350 in his family fleet that he was looking to replace. He wanted confirmation of the color name and proceeded to tell me there was only about 50 in the country at that time. Not surprising since most car dealers go the safe and easier sale route, and order white, black, grey or silver for dealer inventory stock.

The Lexus IS has been around now for about 20 years. In 2021 it received its latest update and in 2022 the all-new IS 500 F SPORT Performance brought the naturally aspirated 5.0-liter V8 with 472-horsepower and 395 lb.-ft. of torque to play in the premium compact sport sedan market. All the power sitting under the raised front hood gets to the road through an 8-speed direct shift automatic driving the rear wheels---there is no all-wheel drive available.

I was really looking forward to driving this car, although most all would be around my Chicago home. No track time! I have been driving a lot of electrified vehicles lately, and the car guy in me was needing a rumbling exhaust from a big V8one of the few still being offered in the US.

The IS 500 is fun to drive, for sure. Its very sporty with a comfortable ride and confident handling. Steering is quick, comfortable, not overly heavy, with nice feedback. The brakes stop fast. Zero to sixty is in 4.4 seconds. Top speed is 149 mph. Fuel consumption is what it is. Just drive!

Im often nervous about tire failure driving Chicagos streets in a car with low profile summer performance tires. The grippy 235/40s up front and the 265/35s in the rear mounted on the 19-inch Matte Black BBS forged alloys ($2,450 extra) looked great. No tire issues came into play and the ride was not too jarring over road imperfections.

Inside, the cabin has a premium look and feel. Leather trim and good quality soft-touch surfaces look classy. Im of average frame and found the front seating very comfortable and ingress and egress quite easy.

The IS 500 is equipped with a long list of collision warning, collision intervention, and driving control assistance features. The 17-speaker 1800-watt Mark Levinson audio system delivers nice tones that suggest a long highway road trip would be very pleasant. The 10.3 inch touchscreen is smallish, in todays world, and the IS still employs the Lexus center console trackpad.

Base price for the 2023 IS 500 F Sport Premium is $61,620 plus the $1,150 delivery fee. If the color Grecian Water is not to your taste an array of black, white, gray, silver, red and blue choices await you. And as for fuel economy, the EPA rating is 20 mpg combined.

More information and details about the 2023 Lexus IS can be found at www.lexius.com. The 2023 IS 500 F SPORT Premium with the Special Appearance Package will be limited to 150 units and went on sale last fall.

If the IS 500 is a bit much for your household, theres the 241-horspeower 2.0-L IS 300 priced to start at $40,585. Also available is the 311-hospeower V6 IS 350 priced at $43,660 to start. Both are available in rear-wheel or all-wheel drive.

All the world is abuzz about electrified vehicles. Sit back. Relax. EVs need to improve and will improve, along with the same for charging infrastructure, for them to completely replace ICE-powered vehicles. Enjoy a V8 now. Enjoy the dynamic bond with the Lexus IS 500.

Happy motoring!

 2023 Larry Nutson, the Chicago Car Guy
if the people of Biafra want Republic of Biafra, it will be a reality during my administration. ----Donald Trump Donald Trump I wi...
Batavia, NY (14020)

Today

Chance of a shower or two during the morning, followed by partly cloudy skies this afternoon. High 73F. Winds W at 10 to 20 mph. Chance of rain 30%..

Tonight

A few clouds. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. Low 57F. Winds WNW at 10 to 15 mph.
Batavia, NY (14020)

Today

Showers and a few thunderstorms likely. Potential for severe thunderstorms. Low 63F. Winds SW at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 100%..

Tonight

Showers and a few thunderstorms likely. Potential for severe thunderstorms. Low 63F. Winds SW at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 100%.
11 Million Low- or Modest-Income Canadians to Receive One-Time Grocery Rebate on July 5

Grocery prices have been rising significantly in Canada, largely due to inflation. (The Canadian Press/Nathan Denette)

Millions of Canadian households considered low- or modest-income will receive a one-time grocery rebate from the federal government this week.

The Grocery Rebate will be delivered to 11 million eligible Canadians on July 5, by either direct deposit or cheque via the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) along with the next quarterly GST/HST credit payment.

For couples with two children and $35,000 in net income, it could mean up to an extra $467, and for single Canadians without children, up to an extra $234. Seniors can expect an extra $225 on average.

The benefit is part of Bill C-46, the Cost of Living Relief Act, No. 3, which was part of the federal governments Budget 2023. The rebate was passed on May 11. The rebate is equivalent to double the GST/HST credit amount a household received in January. The amount is calculated based on a households family situation in January 2023 and its 2021 adjusted family net income.

Recipients did not need to apply for the Grocery Rebate. It is being calculated and delivered automatically as an increase to the July GST/HST credit. However, taxpayers have to have filed a 2021 tax return to be able to receive the payment.

The government notes that it is possible for households to be entitled to the Grocery Rebate but not the July GST/HST credit payment or vice versa, because the Grocery Rebate is calculated based on the 2021 tax returns while the July GST/HST credit payment in July is calculated based on the 2022 tax returns.

Also, if an amount is owing to CRA, the rebate could be taken to apply to an outstanding balance.

The CRA gives a number of examples of the rebate payment depending on household makeup. For example, a single parent with one child could receive up to $387, and so would a married parent with one child, while a single parent with four children would receive $628, and so would a married parent with four children.

If you are single, you could receive a maximum payment of:

$234 (no children)

$387 (with 1 child)

$467 (with 2 children)

$548 (with 3 children)

$628 (with 4 children)

If you are married or have a common-law partner, you could receive up to:

$306 (no children)

$387 (with 1 child)

$467 (with 2 children)

$548 (with 3 children)

$628 (with 4 children)

Anyone who does not receive the Grocery Rebate on the expected date is advised to wait 10 business days before contacting the Canada Revenue Agency at 1-800-267-6999.
2 Emergency Requests Targeting Huntington Beach Air Show Settlement Denied by Judge

The United States Air Force Thunderbirds fly over the Huntington Beach Pier during the Pacific Airshow in Huntington Beach, Calif., on Oct. 1, 2021. (Michael Heiman/Getty Images)

A judge denied two emergency requests in the morning hours of June 30 targeting Huntington Beachs settlement for Pacific Airshow, which was partially canceled in 2021 due to an oil spill off the citys coast.

One of the requests sought to stop the citys $1.9 million payment to the events organizer, which is due by July 31, and the other was requesting disclosure of the full settlement agreement to the public.

On June 29, former Huntington Beach Mayor Connie Boardman and former Planning Commissioner Mark Bixby filed a lawsuit against the city, arguing that the settlement is an unlawful gift of public funds, and that the citys first payment should be stopped immediately.

The settlement was the result of a lawsuit filed against the city by the operator of the Pacific Airshow, Code Four, in 2021 after the final day of the three-day event was canceled due to the oil spill, where 25,000 gallons of crude oil leaked through a cracked pipeline into the ocean of the citys coast.

Bixby and Boardman in their argument allege that the air shows lawsuit against the city is wholly without merit, since the oil spill was out of their control and the oil was toxic, and that even the city recognized that the air show litigation was without merit, as they had filed a motion to dismiss before deciding to settle the case instead.

I think the city had every right to protect the public safety when theres an oil spill, and I disagree with the councils decision to settle even before a judge has an opportunity to dismiss the case, Boardman told The Epoch Times.

On June 7, Gina Clayon-Tarvinvice president of Ocean View School Districtalso filed a lawsuit seeking full disclosure of the entire settlement agreement, after her own request to the city was denied.

During the recent court hearing, Orange County Superior Court Judge Michael Strickroth denied the two emergency requests to have their demands met immediately.

Judge Martha Goodingwho has been presiding over the case between Huntington Beach and the air showwill hear both cases July 17.

Clayton-Tarvin told The Epoch Times she believes her request for immediate action was denied because Strickroth was weary of making an action that is going to end up before another judge.

She said the emergency request was a gamble to see if you can get your issue heard before a judge and get them to understand the urgency of the matter.

So I think the judge kind of punted, and thats fine  I have no doubt that Im going to prevail, she said.

Boardman argued that the city officials claim that they needed to save the air show because it brings in millions each year isnt justified, since there are other operators who can put on the same event.

Code Four is not the only company that can provide an air show  The council might have saved Code Four by giving them $7 million of taxpayer money, but they didnt necessarily save an air show, she said.

The city will pay $5 million to the Pacific Air Show, waive $195,000 in fees owed from the 2021 show, and refund an additional $149,000 in fees from last years event in the form of a credit, according to city officials.

Up to an additional $2 million could also be dished out in related funds if the city files its own lawsuitand prevailsagainst Amplify Energy, the pipeline operator involved in the oil spill, which mostly affected Huntington Beach.

City Attorney Michael Gates told The Epoch Times, regarding Boardman and Bixbys case, the plaintiffs position is entirely ridiculous.

He said the city was sued by the operators of the Pacific Airshow not because they canceled the last day of the three-day event, but because of how the previous city council handled the cancellation.

It was that dispute that the city council evaluated, he said. And after months and months of negotiations, which were done at arms length  the city council chose to resolve the matter, rather than continue litigation for months and possibly years.

In the case of Clayton-Tarvins request for a full copy of the agreement, Gates said he couldnt release it while the city is still in pending litigation over the matter, including the lawsuit they have yet to file against Amplify seeking to recover damages from the spill.

In this case, we did release the terms of the agreement that are of importance to the taxpayer, Gates told The Epoch Times in an interview last week. Government code is very clear that were required to disclose the substance of the settlement, but nowhere in state law does it say the settlement agreement itself.

During the announcement of the settlement in a press conference in May, Mayor Tony Strickland pointed to a study facilitated by Visit Huntington Beacha tourism marketing agency for the cityon last years air show, which demonstrated astronomical financial benefits the event brought to the city, which he said shows the importance of continuing the yearly event.

According to the study conducted by Destination Analystsa market research company for travel and tourismthe air show generated $70.4 million in direct spending in 2022 and attracted 690,000 attendees.

Of the total visitors, 520,000 were from outside of Huntington Beach and 91 percent were returning visitors specifically because of the show.
2nd Bus Carrying Illegal Immigrants From Texas Arrives in Los Angeles

News media vans are parked outside St. Anthony Croatian Catholic Church in Los Angeles on June 14, 2023. (Damian Dovarganes/AP Photo)

LOS ANGELESA bus carrying illegal immigrants from a Texas border city arrived in downtown Los Angeles on Saturday for the second time in less than three weeks.

The office of Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass was not formally notified but became aware on Friday of the bus dispatched from Brownsville, Texas, to LA Union Station, Bass spokesperson Zach Seidl said in a statement.

The City of Los Angeles believes in treating everyone with respect and dignity and will do so, he said.

The bus arrived around 12:40 p.m., and the 41 illegal immigrants on board were welcomed by a collective of faith and immigrant rights groups. Eleven children were on the bus, according to a statement by the Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights.

The illegal immigrants came from Cuba, Belize, Colombia, El Salvador, Guatemala, Mexico, Nicaragua, and Venezuela. They received water, food, clothing and initial legal immigration assistance at St. Anthonys Croatian Parish Center and church.

Jorge-Mario Cabrera, a spokesperson for the coalition, said the group was less stressed and less chaotic than the previous time. He said most were picked up by family in the area and appeared to have had sandwiches and water, unlike the first time.

Los Angeles was not the final destination for six people who needed to fly to Las Vegas, Seattle, San Francisco, and Oakland, he said.

The city received a bus carrying 42 illegal immigrants from Texas on June 14. Many were from Latin American countries, including Honduras and Venezuela, and they were not provided with water or food.

Officials transport new blankets into St. Anthony Croatian Catholic Church, hosting newly arrived illegal immigrants in the Chinatown area of Los Angeles, on June 14, 2023. (Damian Dovarganes/AP Photo)

Bass said at the time that the city would not be swayed by petty politicians playing with human lives.

Texas Gov. Greg Abbott said he sent the bus to Los Angeles because California had declared itself a sanctuary for immigrants, extending protections to people living in the country illegally.

It was unclear if Abbott sent the latest bus. A phone message to his office was not immediately returned.

Earlier in June, the state of Florida picked up three dozen illegal immigrants in Texas and sent them by private jet to Californias capital, catching shelters and aid workers in Sacramento by surprise.
Chinese Premiers Europe Trip Exposes His Weak Position in CCP: Analysts

Li had no special flight or media questions

Chinas new premier Li Qiang completed his first overseas trip to Europe last week, but notably did not fly on a special flight as his predecessors did and declined to attend media questioning sessions. Lis ranking in the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) is second only to that of Party leader Xi Jinping, but political observers believe that Lis power may have been restricted to remain humble to his superiors.

Mouthpiece CCTV highlighted the details of Lis visit to Europe, twice mentioning chartered plane in the same news report on June 19 when describing how Li left Beijing and arrived at Berlin Brandenburg Airport on June 18, German time.

Chinese Premier Li Qiang(L) bows to delegates during the opening of the fourth plenary session of the National Peoples Congress in Beijing, China on March 11, 2023. (Lintao Zhang/Getty Images)

Li should have been one of the two VIPs in the Communist ruling Party who have the privilege of traveling on a special plane, the other one is Xi.

According to a Party regulation proposed by Xi in December 2012, only the General Secretary of the Central Committeethe CCP regimes top leaderand the Premier of the State Council can travel on special flights while other members of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Central Committee may travel on chartered aircraft or shuttles as per work needs.

An Epoch Times reporter searched for past reports in Chinese official media and found no precedent of the Chinese premier taking a chartered plane on an overseas visit. Even the former Premier Li Keqiang, who had a long conflict with Xi, had traveled to various countries on special flights.

Lis diplomatic trip on a chartered plane is tantamount to making it public that his status is Chinas premier but indistinguishable from the rest of the Politburo Standing Committee within the CCP, according to political commentator Chen Pokong.

Depreciation and Prevention

Chen said on his YouTube channel on June 20 that Lis downgrade to take a chartered flight partly reflects the CCP top echelons attitude toward him: One is depreciation, and the other is prevention.

Although Li is the No. 2 leader of the CCP and the state, Xi is willing to make him very different from himself, said Chen, likening Xis rule to a red imperial system that all ministers must distance themselves from the red emperor as Xi is one above all.

Li is a member of Xis faction, he was the chief secretary of Xi when he oversaw Zhejiang Province from 2002 to 2007, so Xi used to treat Li as his secretary even though Li had been promoted to the state premier. It is probably Xi Jinping instructed Cai Qi, director of the Central Committee Office, to restrain Li not to take a special plane as glamorous as the last premier Li Keqiangthis is a sort of depreciation to Li Qiang, Chen said.

Another measure against Li is prevention, in Chens view, Lis governance thoughts seem somewhat different from Xis as Li has some ideas about a market-oriented economy and good relations with entrepreneurs during his tenure in Zhejiang Province and Shanghai. Moreover, after he presided over government work as Chinese premier in March, a street barbecue business model in Zibo city, Shandong Province, is rapidly gaining popularity nationwide.

The Zibo barbecue model stems from the street vending economy, which was first rolled out by Lis predecessor Li Keqiang to alleviate the increasingly dire employment situation in China. However, the street vending economy failed to convince Xi Jinping and his cronies as they sought to restore the state-planned economy in Maos era.

Former Chinese Premier (L2) Li Keqiang shakes hands with Chinese Premier Li Qiang(R) during the fourth plenary session of the National Peoples Congress in Beijing, China, on March 11, 2023. (Lintao Zhang/Getty Images)

In mid-May, Xi told a conference that the capital Beijing was first and foremost a political center, not a hodgepodge, and that it could not run a factory in an alley or engage in a street-vending economy. This is the first time Xi publicly disapproved of the former premiers economic approach to street stalls.

Therefore, Lis Europe trip with an economic mission would also be in the saddle of the CCP to prevent his words and actions from deviating from Xis orbit, Chen said.

No Media Questions

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz and Li did not take any questions from the media during a press conference in Berlin on June 20. Its rare in diplomatic activities.

Scholzs spokesman Steffen Hebestreit explained on June 21 to the journalists that the Chinese side made it clear that it was not prepared to answer any questions and suggested that if not, the Chinese Premier would prefer not to meet with the media: The alternative would have been, either the chancellor appears before the press alone or there is no press statement at all,

In that sense it was the least-worst option, he said.

Several German media outlets have condemned CCPs banning media questions, according to a report of the Chinese language of Radio France International on June 21.

(L to R) German Minister of Economics and Climate Protection Robert Habeck, Chinas Premier Li Qiang, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz and Chairman of Chinas National Development and Reform Commission Zheng Shanjie pose ahead German-Chinese Forum for Economic and Technological Cooperation at the Economy Ministry in Berlin on June 20, 2023. (John MacDougall/AFP via Getty Images)

The prohibition of asking questions is a consistent practice of the CCP to curb the freedom of the press in China. It might be that the new Chinese premier is not confident enough to answer some sensitive questions and avoid embarrassing situations that would shame the CCP, said Zhang Tianliang, a columnist for The Epoch Times, on his video channel on June 21.

Otherwise, [Li Qiangs] power is so weakened that he cant say anything [to the foreign media] until Xi Jinping gives him a direction, Zhang Tianliang said.

Whatever the actual situation is, according to Zhang Tianliang: Li Qiang looks weaker than expected. It can be said that since the CCP seized power, he has been the weakest of all the premiers, including ex-premiers Wen Jiabao and Li Keqiang, which is quite an unusual phenomenon for the political activities of the CCP.
California Retail Theft Very Serious and Escalating to Violence: Small Business Advocate

Tragedy struck a Home Depot store in the San Francisco Bay Area in April as a 26-year-old employee was fatally shot while confronting an alleged shoplifter who was armed with a handgun, authorities said.

Just a few months before, an Antioch gas station cashier was shot to death during an armed robbery, according to local police.

I never believed in my wildest dreams that we would see it get this bad.  These arent just people stealing property. Its now getting very serious and escalating to violence, John Kabateck, who works for a nationwide small business advocacy organization, said in a recent interview on EpochTVs California Insider.

Kabateck, California state director of the National Federation of Independent Business, said that Californias rising crime is now heavily impacting retailers as its severity escalates at an alarming rate. Among the victims, small business owners and residents are the most vulnerable since they dont have enough resources to protect them from criminals, he said.

A screenshot of security footage of a daytime robbery in Hancock Park, Calif., on Nov. 28, 2021. (Courtesy of the Los Angeles Police Department)

The spike in property theft also led to many stores locking up their merchandisein some cases, even entire aisles of itemswhich was never seen in the state several years ago, he said.

This happened, in part, because people have given up on reporting these crimes, since they dont believe they will receive help from law enforcement, he added.

The biggest thing that theyre feeling right now is that Why should I even try and report this? Why should I even call the police? They wont come, he said.

However, Kabateck said this is not due to people not trusting the police, but because they see that law enforcement is understaffed due to a variety of policies and a lack of support from the government.

They have faith in law enforcement. They just dont have faith that our policymakers are doing enough, to fund enough, to keep them protected, he said.

For example, the San Francisco Police Department is around 25 percent short of the staffing needed to address workload demands, according to Police Chief Bill Scott. Los Angeles and San Diego police departments have also reported significant staffing shortages.

Aside from small businesses, many large retailers are also victims of the increase in shoplifting and robberies. Several well-known stores, including Nordstrom, Saks Off 5th, Anthropologie, Office Depot, H&M, and more than a dozen others, have opted to close their doors in San Francisco over the past couple of years.

Additionally, in April, Whole Foods Market shut down its 8th and Market Street location due to safety concerns, merely a year after its grand opening.

Pedestrians walk by a closed Whole Foods store in San Francisco on April 12, 2023. (Justin Sullivan/Getty Images)

Laws and Policies

Kabateck said soft-on-crime policies that were passed starting nearly a decade ago have played important roles in todays crime issue. Laws like Proposition 47which made property theft less than $950 a misdemeanorhave made property crime a lot more unmanageable for law enforcement, he said.

There is also a lack of interest in addressing these laws from policymakers, he said.

When it comes to those committee hearings, and when theres a real specific but realistic policy that would help both rehabilitate and move forward with accountability, something just gets in the way, he said.

He added that one of the reasons behind Californias crime problem is the philosophical issue with our leadership.

At the end of the day, there is a feeling that really, we need to hug the criminal. We need to give the perpetrator more attention and care, he said.

A sign sits on the display in front of a popular shopping area of Santa Monica, Calif., on Jan. 19, 2023. (John Fredricks/The Epoch Times)

Possible Solutions

Talking about solutions, Kabateck said that lawmakers listening to peoples problems more carefully would be a good first step.

[It] is important for our policymakers to have a thoughtful discussion with all the parties involved, about how to address [the crime issue] and address it for small and ethnic businesses, who are the most vulnerable, and families, he said.

At the same time, the state needs to increase funding for law enforcement and local governments so they can better protect the community, according to Kabateck.

He also said it is important to address Prop. 47 at the ballot box and let voters decide how they would like public safety issues to be tackled.

Lastly, he urged people to go out and talk to lawmakers and raise their awareness of the problem.

Make sure that our policymakers are hearing about these kinds of crimes, he said. Every day in their backyard, [so] they feel uncomfortable enough to actually want to make some good happen and protect us.
Canada to Deploy Two More Warships to Search for Mines in European Waters

HMCS Fredericton is on manoeuvres in Frobisher Bay at the southern tip of Baffin Island, taking part in a sovereignty exercise in a file photo. (Michel Comte/AFP via Getty Images)

Canada is deploying two Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) warships from their home port of Halifax to join a NATO maritime operation to clear mines in northern Europe.

Defence Minister Anita Anand made the announcement at a news conference in London, U.K., on June 29, alongside her British counterpart, Secretary of State for Defence Ben Wallace.

His Majestys Canadian Ship (HMCS) Shawinigan and HMCS Summerside will deploy on July 3 to join the Standing NATO Mine Countermeasures Group 1 (SNMCMG1) based in Latvia on Operation Reassurance.

Anand said the mine countermeasures group was established in 1973 to clear World War II mines from the English Channel. The Canadian ships will patrol northern waters in Europe and hunt for sea mines.

In addition to our efforts at sea, we are going to continue to be part of this high-readiness task group with a long history of clearing ordinance from the seas, making maritime routes safer for all maritime activity, Anand said.

This shows Canadas continuing commitment to NATO and the presence of these ships will strengthen security in European waters.

Both ships have Royal Canadian Navy clearance diving teams on board, as well as mine countermeasure search capabilities using autonomous underwater vehicles, the federal government said in a June 29 news release.

The contribution of two Kingston-class Maritime Coastal Defence Vessels (MCDV) to SNMCMG1 demonstrates Canadas ongoing commitment to NATOs high readiness continuous at-sea presence, and the Royal Canadian Navys leadership in strengthening security throughout European waters, read the news release.

Ukraine

During Anands trip to the United Kingdom from June 27 to 29, the minister visited a military base where CAF members are training Ukrainian soldiers.

At the news conference, Anand spoke to Canadas commitment to continue providing donations and military support to Ukraine.

Since February 2022, when Russia began its invasion of Ukraine, Canada has committed over $1 billion in military aid to Ukraine, she said, and recently announced an additional $500 million in aid. She added that Canada has committed hundreds of armoured vehicles, eight battle tanks, an air defence system, along with artillery, ammunition, and more.

The United Kingdom is home to the Royal Canadian Air Force detachment in Prestwick, Scotland, which has delivered over 10 million pounds of Ukraine-bound military aid donated by Canada and its partners and allies using three Hercules aircraft, Anand said, thanking the British government for hosting the detachment.

Anand added that, through Operation Unifier, the CAF has trained more than 36,000 Ukrainian troops. Canada will continue to stand alongside our allies in support of Ukraine for as long as it takes, she added.

Anand said Canadas commitment to the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) remains ironclad.

We will always do whatever it takes to defend every inch of NATO territory. In closing, Canada and the United Kingdom share a deep and historic relationship forged on the battlefields where we defended the values of peace and freedom for all people, she said at the news conference.
China Warns Foreign Consulates Against Visiting Detainees of Dual-Nationality in Hong Kong

The entrance of the Office of the Commissioner of Ministry of Foreign Affairs of China in Hong Kong, on Jan. 26, 2023. (Sung Pi-lung/The Epoch Times)

Japanese media Nikkei Asia reported recently that the Office of the Commissioner of Foreign Affairs in Hong Kong sent letters to local foreign consulates, citing that the Chinese Communist Partys (CCPs) law does not recognize dual nationality, warning them they have no right to conduct consular access to Hong Kong detainees with dual nationality.

Nikkei Asia disclosed that the Office of the Commissioner of the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Hong Kong sent a letter to all local foreign consulates on May 31, stating that the CCP does not recognize dual nationality and warning that foreign consular officers shall not be entitled to visit any Chinese nationals detained in Hong Kong. The report quoted the letter as saying, Beijing considers an individual a Chinese national unless they renounce their citizenship.

The Canadian Consulate in Hong Kong and Macau confirmed that it had received the notice. The Canadian Consulate stated that this will prevent consular officials from providing assistance to Canadians with dual citizenship. It emphasized that the Government of Canada attaches great importance to the safety of Canadians abroad.

The Japanese consulate did not respond as to whether it had received the said letter. Still, the Japanese side stated that regardless of the laws of the CCP, if the individual concerned is a bona fide Japanese national, it will continue to provide its consular access. The U.S. consulate urged Hong Kong authorities to comply with the Vienna Convention on Consular Relations and bilateral agreements to provide detainees with consular notification. The Australian and British consulates declined to comment, while South Korea did not respond.

Under the Vienna Convention on Consular Relations, consular officers have the right to access their nationals who are imprisoned, detained, or interned abroad, to converse or communicate with them, and to appoint legal representatives on their behalf. However, the consular officer shall refrain from acting if the person expressly objects to any action being taken on his behalf.

Several people with dual citizenship have been arrested in Hong Kong, including one of the defendants in the pro-democracy camps primary election case. He has Australian and Chinese dual nationalities. Australian media reported in February 2022, citing Australian government sources, that the local Australian consulate staff had made several requests to the Hong Kong government to meet with the defendant but was refused in each attempt. The person in question is believed to be Gordon Ng Ching-hang.

The other is Jimmy Lai Chee-ying, the founder of the former Next Media who holds a British passport. He is accused of violating the Hong Kong National Security Law. The case will go to trial in September, with a pre-trial hearing in August. Iain Duncan Smith, former leader of the British Conservative Party, expressed concern about Lais case at a meeting of the House of Commons a few days ago and believed that the British government had a duty to assist him, including exercising consular access rights to visit him.
EU Offer on Trade Deal Not Good Enough: Australian Agriculture Minister

A trade deal with the European Union remains a way off as the Australian government pushes back on the latest offer.

Agriculture Minister Murray Watt says the terms put on the table by the EU are just not good enough.

He said Australia was not asking for anything unreasonable and its demands aligned with agreements brokered between the EU and other countries.

But unfortunately, the EU hasnt been prepared to come to the party at the moment, he told ABC News on Sunday.

The minister had been meeting with EU officials ahead of the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organisation conference in Rome.

The federal government has been working on a free trade agreement with the EU for around five years that would give Australian producers greater access to a market of more than 450 million people.

But negotiations have broken down over the conditions attached to a range of agricultural commodities, including beef, sheep, sugar, and dairy products.

The agriculture minister said the latest round of meetings had allowed the government to reiterate its position.

A lot of the European agriculture ministers were of the view that the deal was nearly done and that Australia was quite happy with what was being offered, he said.

So its obviously been very useful to make clear that thats not the case.

While the trade and agriculture ministers remain determined to reach an agreement, the government has said it will walk away if a deal cannot be reached thats in Australias best interests.

We think that there are real benefits for both Australia and the EU, Watt said.

But we do need to see the EU offer to Australia in terms of agricultural inputs to be much higher than what theyve got on the table at the moment.

While the minister said Australia had a strong preference to open up the EU marketwhich was currently very restricted to Australian agriculture products and other goods and services, he emphasised that the deal must be in the countrys national interest.

Were not going to do a deal just for the sake of doing a deal. Its got to be in Australias interests as well as being in EUs interests, Watt said.

If we cant get the kind of market access that were seeking, then its not in our interest to do that deal.

Trade Minister Don Farrell also agreed that Australia would not back down on the issue of geographical indications, a type of trademark that establishes intellectual property rights for specific products whose qualities are linked to the production region.

If the Europeans play too hard, then we wont have an agreement, he said.

Its not that we dont have other options, but  thats a big, relatively wealthy community, so its an important one to get.

Alfred Bui contributed to this article.
Federal Court Delivers Blow to ATFs Ban on Ghost Guns

Some of the 3D-printed ghost guns seized in Operation Centaure are displayed during a news conference in Montreal, June 21, 2023. (The Canadian Press/Ryan Remiorz)

A federal judge has delivered a blow to the Biden administrations gun control policy by reversing a federal ban on so-called ghost guns, arguing that the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) had overstepped its authority.

Texas-based U.S. District Court Judge Reed OConnor on June 30 ruled that the ATF erred by saying that unfinished gun parts are guns and can therefore be regulated. His ruling found that parts arent guns under federal law.

This case presents the question of whether the federal government may lawfully regulate partially manufactured firearm components, related firearm products, and other tools and materials in keeping with the Gun Control Act of 1968, wrote OConnor in his order (pdf). Because the court concludes that the government cannot regulate those items without violating federal law, the court holds that the governments recently enacted final rule  is unlawful agency action taken in excess of the ATFs statutory jurisdiction. On this basis, the court vacates the final rule.

His order also stated that the ATF is trying to regulate a gun component as a frame or receiver, even after the agency determined the component in question is not a frame or receiver. Elaborating, he wrote: It may not. Logic dictates that a part cannot be both not yet a receiver and receiver at the same time. Defendants reliance on that logical contradiction is fatal to their argument.

Pro-firearms groups and websites cheered the ruling, saying that it was an attempt to claw back what they described as attempts by the Biden administration to grab guns via federal rulemaking. The case was brought by the Firearms Policy Coalition, a pro-Second Amendment group.

Were thrilled to see the Court agree that ATFs Frame or Receiver Rule exceeds the agencys congressionally limited authority, Cody J. Wisniewski, of the Firearms Policy Coalition, said in a statement. With this decision, the Court has properly struck down ATFs Rule and ensured that it cannot enforce that which it never had the authority to publish in the first place.

Another pro-gun rights group, the Second Amendment Foundation, also hailed the move. This case is one more example of the Biden administrations ongoing effort to exceed its authority in an effort to place as many restrictions as possible on the rights of law-abiding gun owners, the groups director, Adam Kraut, said in a statement.

The Department of Justice (DOJ), which is likely to appeal the case, has not issued a public comment about the ruling. The Epoch Times has contacted the agency for comment.

Last April, Attorney General Merrick Garland signed the ATFs final rule that defines a frame or receiver, with the agency saying the rule addresses technological advancements and judicial developments since the regulatory definitions were originally set forth in 1968 and 1971.

According to the ATFs summary of the rule, it identifies only one part of a firearm to be the frame or receiver that requires a serial number. It is the part that provides housing or a structure for one specific, primary fire control component of weapons that expel a projectile; or one specific, primary internal sound reduction component of firearm mufflers or silencers.

Pro-gun control groups such as Everytown Research praised the Biden administration for issuing the order at the time.

Ghost guns are the fastest-growing gun safety problem facing our country and have emerged as a weapon of choice for violent criminals, gun traffickers, dangerous extremists, and other people legally prohibited from buying firearms, the group alleged on its website, citing its own research. Ghost guns are also the thread connecting a recent increase in gunfire on school grounds. Schools in Arizona, New Mexico, Maryland, and Kansas have been devastated by school shootings involving ghost gunshighlighting a scary trend and another important reason to regulate these dangerous weapons.
Feds Issued Security Bulletin Falsely Claiming Freedom Convoy Protesters Raiding Govt Buildings: Documents

Protesters mark the first anniversary of police removal of Freedom Convoy protesters from downtown Ottawa, in Ottawa on Feb. 18, 2023. (Jonathan Ren/The Epoch Times)

During the Freedom Convoy protest that took place in downtown Ottawa in early 2022, Public Safety Canada issued a false bulletin claiming that protesters were ransacking federal office buildings, according to records obtained through an access to information request.

On June 5, Alexander Cohen, spokesman for Public Safety Minister Marco Mendicino, said the department had no involvement in the bulletin sent out by the Government Operations Centre, which is a division of Public Safety Canada.

The ministers office does not direct the Government Operations Centre, said Cohen.

According to a Blacklocks Reporter article on June 6, the centre issued the faked security bulletin at 3:54 p.m. Ottawa local time on Jan. 28, 2022, the first day of the protest outside Parliament Hill.

We have received confirmation that protesters have started to enter office buildings in the Ottawa downtown core and are allegedly causing damage, the bulletin said. As a result, Minto Place is going into weekend lockdown mode (all entrance doors will be locked) effective immediately.

There were no incidents that involved protesters in office buildings. However, Public Safety would not explain the source of the disinformation when it said on June 5 that it had nothing to do with the disinformation.

Seeking to Discredit the Protesters

Meanwhile, departmental records released through the Public Order Emergency Commission (POEC) showed that government staff sought to discredit the protesters as being violent even if the allegations were false.

Some of their more extreme comments, i.e. calling for a January 6 style insurrection, are getting more coverage in the media, government staff wrote in a Jan. 24, 2022, text. There could be an opportunity to get in on this growing narrative of the truckers.

One aide wrote, Theres a danger that if we come down too hard they might push out the crazies. Another aide replied, Thats fair.

Mendicino had also earlier testified at the Commons public safety committee, on Feb. 25, 2022, that he had personally contacted certain unnamed news reporters and warned them to use caution when dealing with the Freedom Convoy.

As for journalists, trust me, I reached out to some of them and urged them to be very careful, Mendicino told the committee.

Allegations

Several media outlets acted on the allegations that the protesters were violent. In a Feb. 1, 2022, letter to the Commons Speaker, the Canadian Parliamentary Press Gallery expressed concerns that the protest wasnt safe.

Some of our members have been harassed by protesters of the truck convoy in the last few days and we cannot afford to be left exposed without protection for hours outside the building, wrote Catherine Levesque of the National Post, then-president of the press gallery. However, Levesque provided no examples.

CBC-TV was so concerned that it provided security guards to protect reporters assigned to cover the protest.

At CBC, in order to go out you needed one-to-one security guards, reporter Judy Trinh told the audience at a March 8, 2022, seminar at Carleton University.

Your camera would have a security guard and the reporter would have a security guard, she said. This was a real threat.

National Emergency

On Feb. 14, 2022, Public Safety Canada issued a news release stating that the federal government had declared a public order emergency to end the occupation of the city of Ottawa.

The government said it was working with the provinces and municipalities to get the current situation under control and end the ongoing illegal blockades and occupations taking place across the country.

In order to declare a public order emergency, the Emergencies Act requires that there be an emergency that arises from threats to the security of Canada that are so serious as to be a national emergency, said the news release.

Threats to the security of Canada may include the threat or use of acts of serious violence against persons or property for the purpose of achieving a political or ideological objective.

However, internal reports from Public Safety Canada itself said there was no evidence of violence by Freedom Convoy supporters in Ottawa.

The daily security update issued by the Government Operations Centre on Feb. 14, 2022, the day cabinet invoked the Emergences Act, described the protest as small, peaceful, and having little impact on federal government operations.

Approximately 10 people on Parliament Hill and approximately 100 on the surrounding streets, said the updated obtained by Blacklocks Reporter.

The Canadian Security Intelligence Services (CSIS) said in an assessment, No concerns at this time.

No Serious Violence

Meanwhile, Mendicino reiterated to reporters on Feb, 16, 2022, that the protest was angry and violent, saying, At the core of the movement is anger, animosity and in far too many cases violence.

What were beginning to see emerge are the hallmarks of a sophisticated and capable organization of a small number of individuals but with a steel resolve driven by an extreme ideology that would seek to overthrow the existing government, said Mendicino. Theres a real danger in trivializing and diminishing whats going on.

An internal email from RCMP Deputy Commissioner Brian Brennan on Feb. 21, 2022, said there was no serious violence in Ottawa related to the Freedom Convoy protest.

Brennans assessment echoed similar conclusions by CSIS and the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP).

CSIS director David Vigneault said the convoy and its supporters across the country never constituted a threat to the security of Canada, according to a summary of his interview with the POEC.

OPP Intelligence Bureau chief Pat Morris told the commission on Oct. 19, 2022, that the lack of violent crime was shocking considering the protest in totality.

Peter Wilson, Isaac Teo, and Noe Chartier contributed to this report.
Former Anheuser-Busch Executive Asks Current CEO to Step Down: Hes Been Paralyzed

A former Anheuser-Busch executive is calling on Brendan Whitworth, the beer companys U.S. chief executive officer, to step down from his position over his handling of Bud Lights partnership with transgender influencer Dylan Mulvaney.

Anson Frericks, who once was president of sales and distribution for Anheuser-Busch, wrote in a column published by The Daily Mail on July 1 that Whitworth has clearly shown himself to be incapable of solving the Mulvaney crisis.

Hes had multiple chances and hes failed, Frericks wrote. Its time he did the right thing and stepped aside to make way for someone capable of righting the sinking Bud Light ship.

The controversy surrounding Bud Light started in April after the company rolled out a personalized beer can featuring the face of Mulvaney. The marketing fiasco has cost Bud Light billions in sales and the beer company lost its top position in the U.S. beer market in May, dethroned by Modelo Especial.

After all, the beer companys decision to make trans-activist Dylan Mulvaney the face of Bud Light has cost a staggering $20 billionand countingin lost market cap value, Frericks wrote.

Mulvaney

Frericks criticized Anheuser-Busch for giving a weak and indecisive response recently, following Mulvaneys outcry slamming Bud Light for failing to provide support amid the backlash. Frericks added, Mulvaney did something Whitworth should have had the wisdom to do weeks agocut ties.

Mulvaney, in an Instagram video published on June 29, said, For a company to hire a trans-person and then not publicly stand by them is worse, in my opinion, than not hiring a trans-person at all because it gives customers permission to be as transphobic and hateful as they want.

In response to Mulvaneys remarks, Anheuser-Busch said, We remain committed to the programs and partnerships we have forged over decades with organizations across a number of communities, including those in the LGBTQ+ community, without mentioning Mulvaney by name.

As we move forward, we will focus on what we do bestbrewing great beer for everyone and earning our place in moments that matter to our consumers, Anheuser-Busch added.

What does that mean? Frericks asked about Anheuser-Buschs response. Absolutely nothing. And it will only deepen the chasm between the brand and its customers.

As suchand I take no pleasure in passing this judgementits clear to me that its time for the shareholders and board of Anheuser-Busch to ask Whitworth to step down.

The former Anheuser-Busch executive emphasized that he and Whitworth had a good relationship before he left on his own terms to co-found Strive Asset Management last year.

So I write this with a heavy heart, not out of spite but because its important for Americans to understand how and why corporate leaders can bungle the management of once-iconic American brands so badly, sacrificing countless jobs and invested assets in the process, Frericks added.

Responses

Frericks then brought back Whitworths past responses, starting with the CEOs first statement over Mulvaney in April.

On April 14th, Whitworth made his first attempt at addressing plunging sales with a flat corporate response that neither mentioned the specific controversy, nor apologized for it, Frericks wrote. Instead of helping, it made things even worse: inflaming both the customers who wanted an apology for the campaignand those who were sympathetic to Mulvaney and wanted to see the company defend the influencer.

On June 16th, Whitworth tried again, Frericks wrote, commenting on the CEOs statement in light of a weeks-long boycott against the beer company. But this statement, as bland as the first, only announced additional investments in Bud Lights summer marketing campaign, support for front line employees and a few weak platitudes telling consumers we hear you and heres to a future with more cheers.

Finally, Frericks slammed Whitworths interview with CBS News on June 28.

He made his first public appearance since the debacle on CBS Morning News where he was twice asked by hosts if he would send the can to Mulvaney again or if it had been a mistake. It was a softball question. He should have belted it out of the park, Frericks wrote.

Frericks said Whitworth should have openly admitted that the company made a mistake in having Bud Light cans emblazoned with Mulvaneys face. The former executive then offered an explanation explaining why Whitworth didnt do so.

Because hes been paralyzed by corporate Americas forced adoption of stakeholder capitalism, which preaches to companies about why they must serve activists, politicians, non-governmental organizations, and all manner of interestsanyone really apart from their shareholders and customers!

The Epoch Times has reached out to Anheuser-Busch for comment.
Former US Marshal Gets 10 Years for Framing Ex-Girlfriend in Anaheim Condo Dispute

LOS ANGELESA former deputy U.S. marshal from Glendora was sentenced June 30 to 10 years and one month in federal prison for framing his ex-girlfriend for sexual assault in an apparent effort to gain sole ownership of a condo they purchased together.

Because of the scheme run by Ian R. Diaz, 45, and his then-wife, the ex-girlfriendidentified in court documents as Jane Doespent almost three months in jail, according to prosecutors. The scheming couple had posed online as Jane Doe and sent themselves harassing and threatening messages.

Diaz was found guilty by a Los Angeles jury in March of conspiracy to commit cyberstalking, cyberstalking, perjury, and obstruction. His former wife was not charged by federal prosecutors, but was sentenced to five years in state prison after pleading guilty in state court to related charges, officials said.

Evidence showed that Diaz and his then-wife solicited and lured men found through Craigslist personal advertisements to engage in so-called rape fantasies in an attempt to stage a purported sexual assault orchestrated by the ex-girlfriend.

Diaz then reported the threats to local law enforcement, falsely claiming that Jane Doe posed a genuine and serious threat to his wife. Their actions caused local law enforcement to arrest, charge, and hold the former girlfriend in jail for nearly three months for conduct for which Diaz and his then-wife framed her.

According to the indictment, Diaz and Jane Doe purchased the Anaheim condo in 2015 but soon broke up and the woman moved out. Diaz remained and eventually married the woman with whom he conspired, according to court documents.

Diaz and the ex-girlfriend fought over the condo, and in May 2016, he and his then-wife began plotting to gain control of the condo, prosecutors said.
Hollywood Actors Union Agree to Extend Contract With Studios as Talks Continue

Writers on strike march with signs on the picket line on day four of the strike by the Writers Guild of America in front of Netflix in Hollywood, California on May 5, 2023. (Frederic J. Brown/AFP via Getty Images)

LOS ANGELESThe Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA) actors union and Hollywood producers agreed to an extension of the 2020 TV/theatrical contracts on June 30, which were to expire at 11:59 p.m. Friday evening, avoiding a possible strike for now.

The agreements will now expire on July 12 at 11:59 p.m., according to a joint statement from the SAG-AFTRA and the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP), which represents studios, television networks, and streaming services.

In the meantime, the parties will continue to negotiate under a mutually agreed upon media blackout.

In order to exhaust every opportunity to achieve the righteous contract we all demand and deserve, after thorough deliberation it was unanimously decided to allow additional time to negotiate, SAG-AFTRA President Fran Drescher and National Executive Director Duncan Crabtree-Ireland said in a message to union members. No one should mistake this extension for weakness.

Despite progress in talks, significant differences remain, sources told the Los Angeles Times. Key issues in the negotiations include how to measure streaming residuals and secure protections against the abuse of artificial intelligence, according to the Los Angeles Times.

Union members have overwhelmingly authorized their national board to call a strike if it is deemed necessary.

Negotiations between SAG-AFTRA and AMPTP began on June 7.

Fridays extension agreement comes at a time when the Writers Guild of America is in the ninth week of a strike that has shuttered virtually all scripted productions. There is no word of negotiations between the writers guild and the AMPTP, despite the writers guilds calls for talks to resume.

Fridays agreement also comes just under a month after AMPTP reached a three-year deal with the Directors Guild of America. The pact was overwhelmingly ratified by directors guild members on June 24.

The deal between the directors guild and AMPTP includes a 12.5 percent salary increase over a three-year period for directors, plus a substantial increase in residuals for streaming contentincluding a 76 percent increase in foreign residuals for the largest platforms and mutual confirmation that artificial intelligence is not a person and cannot replace the duties performed by directors guild members.

That deal came after less than a month of negotiations, ahead of a June 30 expiration of the directors guilds previous contract.
Hospitality Workers Walk Off Job at Dozens of Southern California Hotels

The InterContinental in downtown Los Angele is seen in a 2019 screenshot image. (Google Maps/Screenshot via The Epoch Times)

LOS ANGELESWorkers at dozens of major hotels in Southern California went on strike July 2, forming picket lines at many of the businesses in an effort to secure higher pay and improvements in health care and retirement benefits.

BREAKING: Southern California hotel workers are ON STRIKE! Thousands walked off the job at properties across DTLA & Santa Monica. Dozens more properties remain without a Union contract, Unite Here Local 11 wrote on Twitter at 6:01 a.m. Sunday.

That tweet was followed by several more that showed workers picketing Sunday morning at sites including the InterContinental in downtown Los Angeles, JW Marriott LA Live, Millennium Biltmore Hotel, Hotel Figueroa, Le Meridien Delfina Santa Monica, Viceroy Santa Monica, Fairmont Miramar Hotel in Santa Monica, Sheraton Universal Hotel, and DoubleTree Los Angeles.

The union, which represents up to 15,000 workers employed at 65 major hotels in Los Angeles and Orange counties, had said June 30 in an Instagram post that its members could strike at any moment during the Fourth of July weekend.

The contract between the hotels and Unite Here Local 11 expired at 12:01 a.m. Saturday although the union reached a deal Wednesday night with the largest of its employers, the Westin Bonaventure Hotel & Suites in downtown L.A.

Contract agreements are unresolved with the remaining hotels.

Welcome to the fight  Viceroy Santa Monica is ON STRIKE. #SoCalHotelStrike pic.twitter.com/MgKeo2JPg1  UNITE HERE Local 11 (@UNITEHERE11) July 2, 2023

Hotel officials have told reporters their facilities will remain open with management and other nonunion staff filling in if the union strike materializes.

The workers include thousands of cooks, room attendants, dishwashers, servers, bellhops, and front desk agents.

On June 8, 96 percent of the unions members approved a strike authorization that could result in one of the nations largest hotel worker strikes.

Union officials said their members earn $20 to $25 an hour. Negotiators are asking for an immediate $5 an hour raise and an additional $3 an hour in subsequent years of the contract along with improvements in health care and retirement benefits.

The union is also seeking to create a hospitality workforce housing fund. Officials said a survey showed that 53 percent of workers said they either have moved in the past five years or will move in the near future because of soaring housing costs, with many saying theyre now commuting hours from areas like Apple Valley, Palmdale, California City, and Victorville.

Our members were devastated first by the pandemic, and now by the greed of their bosses, Unite Here Local 11 Co-President Kurt Petersen said in a statement put out by the union. The industry got bailouts while we got cuts. Now, the hotel negotiators decided to take a four-day holiday instead of negotiating. Shameful.

With the Westin contract settled, the Coordinated Bargaining Group is negotiating on behalf of 44 of the other unionized hotels. The remaining 21 hotels would adhere to that same agreement.

Representatives for the hotels accused workers of being inflexible in their demands.

The union has not budged from its opening demand two months ago of up to a 40 percent wage increase and an over 28 percent increase in benefit costs. From the outset, the union has shown no desire to engage in productive, good faith negotiations with this group, the reps said in a statement provided to the Los Angeles Times.

Attorney Keith Grossman of Hirschfeld Kraemer, one of two firms representing the hotel coalition, told the Los Angeles Times that employers have offered raises of $2.50 an hour in the first 12 months and $6.25 over four years. He said housekeepers at unionized hotels in Beverly Hills and downtown Los Angeles, who currently make $25 per hour, would get a 10 percent wage increase in 2024 and make more than $31 per hour by January 2027.

If there is a strike, it will occur because the union is determined to have one, Grossman said.
ANALYSIS: US Takes First Step to Counter Chinas Drug Warfare Against America

Tablets believed to be laced with fentanyl are displayed at the Drug Enforcement Administration Northeast Regional Laboratory in New York on Oct. 8, 2019. (Don Emmert/AFP via Getty Images)

The massive export of fentanyl from China has already caused hundreds of thousands of deaths and billions of dollars in economic losses in the United States. Experts say that the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) deliberately allows the drugs to flow into the United States. The recent prosecution of related Chinese companies can be seen as the United States firing the first shot in the counterattack.

On June 23, the U.S. Department of Justice announced two arrests in the Southern and Eastern Districts of New York and released three indictments charging four Chinese companies and eight Chinese nationals with crimes related to the production and sale of fentanyl precursors. This is the first time that Chinese companies and Chinese nationals have been prosecuted in the United States for the sale of fentanyl precursors. During the operation, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) seized more than 200 kilograms (440 lbs.) of fentanyl precursors, an amount large enough to kill 25 million Americans.

Fentanyl is a highly addictive synthetic opioid that is 50 times more potent than heroin and 100 times more potent than morphine.

Fentanyl and its analogs have wreaked havoc in communities across the United States and exacerbated the overdose problem. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimated that fentanyl killed about 110,000 Americans by 2022. Fentanyl is now the leading cause of death among Americans aged 1849.

Amarvel Biotech, based in Wuhan, Hubei, was one of four companies indicted by the U.S. Department of Justice on June 23.

The company claimed online that it was shipping fentanyl precursor chemicals to the United States and Mexico.

Drug cartels operate clandestine laboratories in Mexico that synthesize these precursors into finished fentanyl on a large scale and sell them throughout the United States.

In order to successfully transport the drugs to the United States and Mexico, these Chinese companies go to great lengths. They claim to guarantee a 100 percent invisible shipment, which means using deceptive packaging, for example, claiming the contents are dog food, nuts, or motor oil.

DEA chief Anne Milgram said these companies also chemically camouflage their products in the lab.

They even disguised the chemicals at a molecular level, adding a molecule to mask the precursors so they would not be detected as banned substances during transport, she said. They taught their customers how to remove that molecule after they received the chemicals.

Small Fraction of Illicit Cases

The Chinese drug manufacturers charged by the United States on June 23 are just a small fraction of companies involved in such illegal activity. According to National Public Radio, there are more than 100 suppliers of fentanyl or related chemicals in China. They use online networks to blatantly sell fentanyl analogs and fentanyl precursors, and ship them directly to customers in the United States and Europe, as well as to Mexican cartels.

The production and export of fentanyl is growing rapidly inside some unnoticed labs in China.

A U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement official in China told NPR that inside a laboratory in Hebei Province housed in a sprawling industrial warehouse complex, drug investigators found a high-volume fentanyl manufacturing plant, all located in two small rooms, with product drying on tape in sheet cake pans.

In November 2018, Chinese police, acting on information from the U.S. side, seized more than 26 pounds of fentanyl and 42 pounds of other drugs from the lab, according to the NPR report.

C4ADS, the Center for Advanced Defense Studies, identified the detailed locations of 92 fentanyl-selling entities in China, 41 percent of which were located in Shijiazhuang, the capital of Hebei Province, just 154 miles away from Beijing.

The United States has been trying to urge the CCP to strengthen the supervision of fentanyl-like drugs through diplomatic channels. After years of U.S. diplomatic pressure, Chinese leader Xi Jinping reached an agreement with President Donald Trump at the G20 summit in December 2018 to include all synthetic opioids in the regulatory program.

However, since then, China has remained a major source of fentanyl in the United States, as Chinese-made fentanyl products now enter the United States through Mexico instead. Mexican criminal groups purchase fentanyl precursors from China and then traffic finished fentanyl to the United States.

A new investigation by the Voice of America found that Chinese sellers shipped fentanyl precursors from Shanghai to Mexico by air, paying a shipping cost of $230 per kilogram. The United States has accused China of ineffective law enforcement and poor action against drug smugglers and money launderers.

New Opium War

James Lewis, senior vice president of the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS), a Washington think tank, told The Epoch Times on June 26 that he believes the Chinese communist regime does not really care about fentanyl precursors going to the United States, and would not provide any actual help to resolve the U.S. fentanyl crisis.

They may even see it as payback from the Opium Wars, he said.

Between 1840 and 1842, Chinas Qing Dynasty pursued a closed-door policy and tribute system, which led to diplomatic conflicts and trade imbalances between China and the United Kingdom. The Qing governments strong measures to ban the opium trade, which violated the diplomatic bottom line of the British envoy and the fundamental interests of British merchants, eventually led to a military conflict between the Qing Empire and the British Empire. This was known as the First Opium War.

This war resulted in the widespread proliferation of opium in China. The National Army Museum of the United Kingdom documented that China had an estimated 10 million opium addicts by the year 1840.

A man smokes fentanyl-laced marijuana in San Francisco, Calif., on Feb. 22, 2023. (John Fredricks/The Epoch Times)

Todays America bears similarities to the phenomenon seen in China 180 years ago. According to the testimony of Vanda Felbab-Brown, the Director of the Brookings Institutions project, during a congressional hearing in March 2023, drug overdose has resulted in over one million deaths in the United States since 1999. Since the significant influx of synthetic opioid drugs from China starting in 2012, the mortality rate has dramatically increased. In 2021, the death toll was 106,699; and by 2022, the estimated death toll was 107,477. The majority of these deaths are attributed to fentanyl.

In their article China Wages a Drug War, Retired U.S. Navy Captain Jim Fanell and William C. Triplett II, a recognized specialist in national security matters, said that the CCP is waging a hot war against the United States by importing fentanyl into the country.

Americans are dying at an annual rate that is higher than during the entirety of the Vietnam War, the article stated.

According to a report by the Council on Foreign Relations, the opioid death toll in the United States soared to 80,411 in 2021, more than ten times the number of U.S. military deaths in the post-9/11 wars in Iraq and Afghanistan.

Anne Arundel County, Maryland, reported that nearly 200 people died from drug overdoses in the county in 2017. Despite government resources to combat the opioid influx, the county had more opioid overdose deaths than traffic accidents, homicides, and suicides in 2016. And Anne Arundel County is not an ordinary county; it is home to the U.S. Naval Academy, the National Security Agency (NSA), and many high-paying government contracting programs. However, the county has been inundated by a wave of fentanyl from China.

Anders Corr, the founder of Corr Analytics Inc. and Epoch Times contributor, told The Epoch Times on June 24: The deaths should be considered a direct attack on the United States and genocidal by the U.N. definition. Arrests and sanctions on individuals are insufficientthe sanctions should be against the CCPs top leadership and against the Chinese economy as a whole.

In addition to causing a large number of deaths of U.S. citizens, the influx of fentanyl has also devastated the U.S. economy. In 2022, the Joint Economic Committee (JEC) of Congress found that the opioid epidemic cost the country nearly $1.5 trillion in 2020, or 7 percent of gross domestic product (GDP), an increase of about one-third from 2017. The JEC predicted that this growth will continue due to the rising number of drug overdose cases.

The opioid epidemic is also taking a toll on the U.S. workforce. Researchers estimated in 2022 that of the about 6.3 million people missing from the U.S. workforce compared to pre-pandemic numbers, roughly 20 percent of that number was caused by opioids.

Corr believes that the CCPs lack of cooperation on drug control is intentional, like the retaliation for Nancy Pelosis trip to Taiwan.

Following U.S. House Speaker Nancy Pelosis visit to Taiwan last August, the CCP imposed a series of retaliations on the United States, including suspending cooperation with Washington to curb drug trafficking and suspending an agreement reached between Xi and Trump in 2018.

Sen. Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) told CBS that based on briefings she has received, she believes that the Chinese are intentionally poisoning America.  And of course, the Chinese dont want to assist us with this.
Kidnapped Mexican Security Staff Freed After 3-Day Search

State security ministry employees, who were kidnapped by members of an armed group days ago, react after meeting their relatives after being freed, outside the Secretary of Public Security and Citizen Protection of Chiapas, in Tuxtla Gutierrez building, Mexico, on June 30, 2023. (Jacob Garcia/Reuters)

MEXICO CITYSixteen Mexican state security ministry employees were freed on Friday after being kidnapped earlier in the week in the southern state of Chiapas, authorities said, following a three-day search.

All of them are OK, a spokesperson for the ministry said.

The employees, all men, were kidnapped Tuesday by an armed group on a highway near the state capital of Tuxtla Gutierrez after leaving work, authorities said.

More than 1,000 federal and state agents joined the search, and two people were detained earlier in the week.

Local news outlets showed images of families gathered at the ministrys offices, breaking into tears as they reunited with the kidnap victims. One woman was shown sobbing, yelling out, Thank you Lord!

On Tuesday, a spokesperson for Chiapas security ministry told Reuters that the employees were not police officers but administration workers, adding, Nothing like this has ever happened.

The kidnapped employees were recorded in a video shortly after going missing, eyes cast to the ground, standing together, as one gave a message that they would be freed in exchange for resignations from ministry higher-ups.

The ministry confirmed that those in the video were the captives.

The conditions of their release remain unclear.
Man Sentenced to 14 Years in Prison for 2020 Murder in Seattles CHOP Zone

Friends and family gather for a memorial and rally for peace in memory of Lorenzo Anderson in Seattle, Wash., on July 2, 2020.. (David Ryder/Getty Images)

The man convicted of shooting and killing 19-year-old Lorenzo Anderson on the edge of Seattles notorious protest zone in June 2020 was sentenced to 14 years in prison on Friday.

Marcel Long, now 20, was arrested last July in Des Moines, Washington, after being wanted by authorities for more than a year over the killing of Anderson. He entered a deal with prosecutors this May and pleaded guilty to a reduced charge of second-degree murder.

Although Andersons family wanted to take the case to trial in the hope that it would lead to harsher outcomes on Longs part, the King County Prosecuting Attorneys Office said they believe the plea deal is the best option to make sure Long is at least held accountable.

This was a plea deal because theres never a guarantee of what a jury will do, even in a case like this one, the office said at that time.

As part of Fridays sentencing, Long is facing 14 years in prison followed by three years in community custody, in addition to a restitution fine, the amount of which will be determined at a later date.

Anderson, a special needs teenager who had graduated from high school the day before, was shot by Long on June 20, 2020, right on the edge of the citys six-block Capitol Hill Organized Protest (CHOP) area, a barricaded, unpoliced autonomous zone that emerged amid Black Lives Matter protests and was overrun with anti-police anarcho-communists. Anderson died on the way to the hospital.

Surveillance camera footage the night of the shooting shows the two encounter each other and Long pulling out a handgun on Anderson, who was walking away. Though others tried to restrain Long, who broke free and chased Anderson, shooting him four times.

The self-appointed CHOP medics immediately called 911 and asked first responders to rush to Andersons aid. However, Seattle Fire Department ambulance crew stationed just a block and a half away said they would not enter the police-free zone without an all-clear from the Seattle Police Department, which didnt come until about 20 minutes after Anderson was shot.

When the first responders finally arrived at the scene with a police escort, Anderson had already been taken by frustrated CHOP volunteers to the hospital, where he died shortly after.

Andersons father, Horace Anderson, in 2020 filed claims in excess of $3 billion against the city of Seattle and Washington State over his sons death. In 2022, the city paid him a $500,000 settlement.

The money doesnt really mean too much for me, I mean, my son is still gone, his father recently told Fox News. If I could help another family, that would be beautiful because I wouldnt want anybody to go through this.

A separate lawsuit was brought by Donitta Sinclair, Andersons mother. She accused city officials of acting in negligence regarding the violence and lawlessness inside CHOP she said they helped create and should therefore be held responsible for her sons death.

The City had a duty to act reasonably and not create a danger, the complaint read. By abandoning CHOP and approving a no-cop zone where police only entered CHOP in the event of life-threatening crimes, and sometimes not even then, the City created a danger.

Anderson should have been in the hands of professional medics almost immediately and transported to the hospital in a matter of a few minutes. Every minute matters in treating gunshot wounds, it added. The Citys negligence proximately caused Andersons death.

The lawsuit was first dismissed by a federal judge in 2021. The 9th Circuit Court of Appeals in May upheld the lower courts ruling, saying that by abandoning CHOP, the city did create a toxic brew of criminality that would endanger city residents, but not her son specifically.

The danger to which the city contributed was not particularized to Sinclair or her son, or differentiated from the generalized dangers posed by crime, as our precedent requires. We therefore affirm the district courts dismissal of Sinclairs suit for failure to state a claim for relief, Circuit Judge Ryan Nelson, a Trump appointee, wrote for the three-judge panel. He also noted that there is no constitutional right to recover for the loss of her companionship with her adult son.

Nelson was joined by Circuit Judges Richard Tallman, a Bill Clinton appointee, and Danielle Forrest, a Trump appointee.
Massive Crowd Comes to Small Town to Support Trump Despite Indictment

A crowd greets former President Donald Trump as he arrives for a rally in Pickens, S.C., on July 1, 2023. (The Epoch Times/Janice Hisle)

PICKENS, S.C.This tiny city of about 3,000 people burgeoned to more than ten times that size as throngs welcomed former President Donald Trump to a pre-July 4 celebrationpossibly a once-in-a-lifetime event for residents.

A South Carolina newspaper, the Spartanburg Herald-Journal, said Police Chief Randall Beach estimated the crowd at 50,000 supporters; it was Trumps first rally following his federal indictment in Florida last month.

Trump, in the July 1 speech, spent several minutes dissecting that case. He also promised to protect citizens freedom and the American way of life that they cherish.

To all of you, I have your back, he said to thousands of people who were jammed between vintage brick buildings along Main Street in 90-degree heat.

This is the heart of America here, U.S. Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene told The Epoch Times prior to Trumps remarks, adding that she felt like she was in the midst of a great big party, just like all Trump rallies are.

But Greene also addressed a more sobering topic: the criminal charges Trump faces. Not only is he innocent of all the fake charges the left is throwing against him, but he is the only man that can save America and Im so happy to be here to support him.

Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-Ga.) speaks to The Epoch Times before a speech she gave to support former President Donald Trumps 2024 election bid in Pickens, S.C., on July 1, 2023. (Janice Hisle/The Epoch Times)

Dangerous Precedent

Among those who waited in long lines and were thrilled to get inside the barricades for Trumps rally was Tina Tanner, 64, of Pickens. Ive never experienced this before, getting to actually see a former president, Tanner told The Epoch Times.

She didnt vote for Trump in 2016 but liked how he ran the country, so he won her vote in 2020.

It seemed like the country was turning around; I just liked the things that were going on, especially with the economy  and he was aggressive with getting our country more respect in the world, Tanner said.

Tanner added that its hard to know what to believe in the media, but based on what she has learned, the criminal charges against Trump seem to lack substance.

The justice system just seems very biased, she said. The opposing party is pushing these charges and investigations against Trump and setting a precedent that they need to be concerned about, she said. It may come back to shoot them in the foot.

Tina Tanner, 64, waits in line for a chance to see former President Donald Trump, in Pickens, S.C., on July 1, 2023. (Courtesy of Michael Hisle)

During his speech, Trump read aloud parts of past court rulings that said, in essence, that U.S. presidents have sole and complete discretion to determine which records are personal and which are presidential.

Therefore, Trump said, to accuse him of illegally possessing or mishandling classified documents is a phony deal. The audience reacted with whistles and cheers.

The Republican frontrunner accused Democrat President Joe Biden of weaponizing the American justice system as a form of election interference at a time when Trump is seeking to unseat him. Launching investigations and prosecutions of political rivals is the Democrats new form of cheating, Trump said. Biden has said that he never suggested whether a charge should or should not be brought.

Trump also railed against Democrat prosecutor Fani Willis in Georgia, saying that her investigation into his challenge of the 2020 election is also a politically motivated one.

He alleged that people who recorded a phone conversation that included his protestations to the Georgia election officials may have violated Florida law, which requires both parties to consent to the recording.

If elected, Trump vowed to direct a completely overhauled DOJ to investigate every radical [district attorney] in America, a line that elicited loud cheers from the audience.

Why Pickens?

Resident Ed Leese, who runs the Pickens Local Facebook page and podcast, called Trumps rally the biggest event, possibly, in the history of our town. He told The Epoch Times that Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.), who hails from the nearby town of Central, helped bring the Trump rally to Pickens, unbeknownst to many people who almost drowned out Graham with loud, long boos.

According to Leese, the idea for a Pickens rally surfaced after Graham visited a local azalea festival in April.

In addition, the citys namesake, Brigadier Gen. Andrew Pickens, is the source of an inspirational story related to Americas independence from Great Britain.

Trump referenced Pickens legacy during his speech. During the Revolutionary War, Pickens faced long odds of victory, Trump said. Pickens was given no chance. But the general vowed to never retreat and never, ever surrender, Trump said.

Trump says he, too, follows that credo, noting that Pickens is credited with courageously leading troops in the Battle of Eutaw Springs in Charleston, South Carolina. That battle on Sept. 8, 1781, became a pivotal point in the war; the British lost control of the South from that point forward.

An estimated 30,000 people flood the streets of Pickens, S.C., for a pre-Independence Day rally supporting former President Donald Trump as he is campaigning to retake the White House on July 1, 2023. (Janice Hisle/The Epoch Times)

Leese thinks the Trump campaign probably liked the idea of coming to Pickens because its Main Street provides an all-American-looking backdrop.

As Leese put it, the downtown looks and feels like the Mayberry, the fictional town portrayed in The Andy Griffith Show, a 1960s TV series, where everybody knows everyone else.

The Booing Continued

When Graham took to the stage prior to Trumps appearance, he tried to quiet the jeers and heckling without success by repeatedly saying, Thank yall. Thank yall for comin.

He pushed through his speech, saying, Let me tell you why I want to help President Trump  I was on the front row of his presidency and Id never seen anybody this tough for America.

Graham called Trump the most pro-life president in my lifetime, and praised him for appointing conservative U.S. Supreme Court justices who helped overturn the landmark Roe v. Wade abortion ruling, returning authority for that procedure back to the states. He also commended Trump for his toughness that made foreign powers respect America.

Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.) speaks to crowd during a campaign event for former president Donald Trump in Pickens, S.C., on July 1, 2023. (Sean Rayford/Getty Images)

We need him back in the White House right now. So let me tell you how you win elections, folks, Graham said. You get people together that dont agree all the time to agree on the most important things. My hope is we can bring this party together.

He said Trump is the only Republican candidate who has the ability to change this country.

He did it once, he can do it again. And Ive gonna help him all over this country  and he is going to win South Carolina. This is the pathway to the presidency.

Trump later thanked Graham for his support, which again drew booing. But Trump said that Graham has been known to step up when hes really needed. The crowd chuckled when Trump said he would straighten him out.

Flip-Flopping Causes Disapproval

Catherine Whiten, who lives in Grahams hometown, told The Epoch Times that she and others disapprove of Grahams flip-flopping on Trump.

After violence erupted at the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021, Graham turned his back on Trump, in Trump supporters eyes, Whiten and others said. Supporters recall that Graham said opposition to the election results needed to end. He also said Graham also called Biden possibly the best person for the job as the incoming president, CNN and others later reported. Since then, Graham has been on the outs with many Trump supporters.

Whiten, decked out in patriotic Trump gear, said she told her son and daughter-in-law, You were just part of history after they attended the Trump rally.

Catherine Whiten of Central, S.C., in Liberty, S.C., after attending a rally for former President Donald Trump in nearby Pickens, S.C., on July 1, 2023. (Courtesy of Michael Hisle)

Although forecasts had called for severe thunderstorms during the afternoon, that threat shifted to the evening. No matter what the weather, Leese, a two-time Trump voter, said the crowds wouldnt be deterred from coming to see the former president.

A solid 65 percent of these people would stand through a tornado for this guy, he said.

Even though hes an entertaining guy who whips the crowd into a frenzy, Trumps real appeal is rooted in what people have seen him accomplish for America, Leese said. Supporters credit him with gas prices under $2 per gallon and a stronger overall economy, Leese said.

Missing the Trump Years

Whiten is among the people who look back at 20172021, the years of the Trump presidency, wistfully; she thinks he kept his promises to America very well and didnt have enough time to get everything done.

She and others in the crowd grew emotional toward the end of Trumps speech; some people appeared to be on the verge of tears as Trump listed a litany of woes facing the nation.

Former President Donald Trump reacts to crowd applause during a campaign event in Pickens, S.C., on July 1, 2023. (Sean Rayford/Getty Images)

Crime is out of control, the economy is collapsing, the supply chain is broken, and the educational system is ranked at the bottom of every single list, Trump said. The nation has become a joke on the world stage and the people in power are hostile to liberty and freedom, he lamented.

But as instrumental music swelled, Trump changed the mood by promising to rectify those problems if reelected.

We will rescue freedom, Trump said. We will propel that spirit of July 4, 1776, the date when America declared its independence from Great Britain.

And, repeating a scene typical of Trump rallies across the nation, the crowd joined Trump in unison and recited his famous campaign slogan, Make America Great Again.

Whiten, reflecting on those remarks afterward said, I feel like hes the man to do it.

Update: This article has been updated to include comment from Pickens Police Chief Randall Beach.
French Mayor Alleges Rioters Tried to Assassinate Him in 5th Night of Violence

French Prime Minister Elisabeth Borne (R), and Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin (C) talks to Vincent Jeanbrun, the Mayor of L'Hay-les-Roses (L) as they meet with municipal police, after rioters rammed a vehicle into the mayor's house overnight, in L'Hay-les-Roses, south of Paris, on July 2, 2023. (Charly Triballeau/Pool/AFP via Getty Images)

Riots erupted for another night across France over a police-involved shooting of a 17-year-old last week, leading to 1,300 arrests, as top police unions issued a warning that the country is at war. In another incident, the mayor of a Parisian suburb alleged that rioters tried to assassinate him and his family members.

Top French police unions, Alliance Police Nationale and UNSA Police, over the weekend said that officers are at war with vermin and threatened revolt over how the country is handling the riots. Today the police are in combat because we are at war. Tomorrow we will enter resistance and the government should be aware of this, the unions in a statement to The Telegraph.

Now is not the time for industrial action but for fighting against these vermin,' the union statement also said, responding to French President Emmanuel Macrons reluctance to declare a state of emergency.

Restoring the republican order and putting the apprehended beyond the capacity to harm should be the only political signals to give. In the face of such exactions, the police family must stand together. Our colleagues, like the majority of citizens, can no longer bear the tyranny of these violent minorities, the unions statement also said, according to a translation.

At the same time, Vincent Jeanbrun, mayor of the southern Paris suburb of LHay-les-Roses, alleged that rioters tried to assassinate him and his family, including two young children. Jeanbrun said he was at home when it was set on fire while his wife and kids were there sleeping, describing the incident as an assassination attempt.

Municipal police officers stand in front of the damaged home of the Mayor of lHay-les-Roses Vincent Jeanbrun, in lHay-les-Roses, a suburb of Paris, on July 2, 2023. (Geoffroy Van Der Hasselt/AFP via Getty Images)

Last night, a milestone was reached in horror and ignominy. My home was attacked and my family was the victim of an assassination attempt, he wrote on social media. Meanwhile, French Minister of the Interior Gerald Darmani confirmed over the weekend that an investigation was opened, reported The Independent.

It came as riots continued for a fifth night in France overnight on Saturday and Sunday, as officials confirmed that 45,000 police officers were deployed across several cities.

Firefighters work to extinguish a burning container as unrest continues following the death of Nahel, a 17-year-old teenager killed by a French police officer in Nanterre during a traffic stop, in Paris, on July 1, 2023. (Juan Medina/Reuters)

There have been widespread reports and video footage of rioters burning buildings, looting, attacking officers, attacking bystanders, and stealing vehicles, while there has been unconfirmed footage of what appear to be rioters armed with rifles. Its not clear how they obtained the firearms, as France has strict gun-control laws.

Arrests

Police made 719 arrests nationwide by early Sunday following a mass security deployment aimed at quelling Frances worst social upheaval in years.

The 17-year-old whose death Tuesday sparked the violence was laid to rest Saturday in a Muslim ceremony in Nanterre, a Paris suburb. He has been identified publicly only by his first name, Nahel.

As night fell Saturday, a small crowd gathered on the Champs-Elysees to protest his death and police violence but met hundreds of officers with batons and shields guarding the avenue and its boutiques. In a less chic Paris neighborhood, protesters set off firecrackers and lit barricades on fire as police shot back with tear gas and stun grenades.

A burning car hit the home of the mayor of the Paris suburb of LHay-les-Roses. Several schools, police stations, town halls, and stores have been targeted by fires or vandalism in recent days but such a personal attack on a mayors home is unusual.

Firefighters stand as they extinguish burning vehicles during clashes between protesters and police, after the death of a 17-year-old teenager killed by a French police officer during a traffic stop in Nanterre, Paris suburb, France, on June 28, 2023. (Stephanie Lecocq/Reuters)

Macron planned to hold a special security meeting Sunday evening with Borne, Darmanin, and the justice minister. Macron has blamed social media and video games for fueling violence. Frances justice minister has warned that young people who share calls for violence on Snapchat or other apps could face prosecution.

Skirmishes erupted in the Mediterranean city of Marseille but appeared less intense than the night before, according to the Interior Ministry. A bolstered police contingent arrested 55 people there.

Nationwide arrests were lower than the night before. Darmanin attributed that to the resolute action of security forces.

A World War II monument in Nanterre commemorating Holocaust victims and members of the French resistance that was vandalized on the sidelines of a silent march Thursday to pay tribute to Nahel was still defaced Sunday with slogans including Police scum, Dont forgive or forget, and Police, rapists, assassins.

The European Jewish Congress denounced the vandalism as a shameful act of disrespect for the memory of the victims of the Holocaust.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.
Protesters and Presidential Hopefuls at Moms for Liberty National Summit

Woman poses for photo at the "dance protest" opposing the Moms for Liberty national summit in Philadelphia on July 1, 2023. (Beth Brelje/The Epoch Times)

PHILADELPHIAA smattering of protesters hollered insults, like bigot and fascist, over a loud speaker, blasted music, waved rainbow flags and danced in the street in a transgender dance protest on Friday and Saturday at the Moms for Liberty Joyful Warriors National Summit in Philadelphia.

The rally was advertised beforehand as a dance protest in media stories, social media posts, box trucks with electronic signs, and handmade signs plastered on utility poles in the city, listing the location and the words Trump is coming to town.

Protest organizers had a stack of cardboard signs for walk-up protesters to borrow, but the stack was not fully used. There were snacks, sidewalk chalk for writing insults on the ground, tables with reading materials to persuade the public, and people with clipboards and pens working the crowd.

The rally had more effect on people in the street. Moms for Liberty summit attendees were mostly inside during the summit.

Over the course of two days, the grassroots conservative Moms group, which formed out of parental concern over destructive policies in schools two years ago during the COVID-19 pandemic, had the political power to attract five Republican presidential hopefuls: candidates Ron DeSantis, Nikki Haley, and former President Donald Trump on Friday and former Arkansas Gov. Asa Hutchinson and Vivek Ramaswamy on Saturday. Some summit speakers believe that is why Moms for Liberty is being targeted.

Ramaswamy and Family

Republican presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy (R) and his wife Apoorva Ramaswamy (C) with their two children, on the Moms for Liberty national summit stage with Mom for Liberty cofounder Tiffany Justice (L) in Philadelphia on July 1, 2023. (Beth Brelje/The Epoch Times)

Vivek Ramaswamy, alongside his wife Apoorva Ramaswamy, a throat surgeon, sat on stage with his two children and Moms for Liberty cofounder Tiffany Justice, talking about national policies, popping a pacifier into the babys mouth, describing the changes he would make to education, and handing the children teddy bears.

Each time the children did something cute, the room full of mostly moms cooed in unison, Awww. One mom remarked later that it is probably good marketing to bring the kids on stage. [I]t totally works.

Ramaswamys policies work for many moms as well. They stood up to applaud several times in the middle of his speech, including when he announced that if elected, he will shut down the U.S. Department of education. The money saved would make school choice possible.

He would also end other federal agencies such as the FBI, IRS, ATF, and the Nuclear Regulatory Commission, which he would make into something different.

The FBI does not need to exist. In fact, local prosecutors and local police get the job done just fine without a intermediary agency sitting in between. Same thing with the U.S. Marshalls and you have the DOJ. When you have a bureaucracy that sits in between, thats a formula for corruptionfor labeling conservative parents domestic terrorists, he told the press after his speech.

These agencies, he says, create a fourth branch of government.

He said that the opponent protesters gathered outside didnt want to hear the truth, and then listed some truths.

God is real, there are two genders, fossil fuels are a requirement for human prosperity, reverse racism is racist, and parents determine the education of their children, Ramaswamy said. He had some other truths but by then, the Moms were on their feet and cheering too loudly to hear his words.

At 37, Ramaswamy is the first millennial to run for U.S. president. He says his generation is hungry for a cause, purpose, and meaning.

He said that the woke culture of radical America being popularized today leaves a black hole in its wakea moral vacuum.

And when you have a black hole that runs that deep, that is when the poison begins to fill the void. Wokeism, transgenderism, COVIDism, depression, anxiety, drug usage, suicide, Ramaswamy said.

You think its a coincidence that we see the rise of these secular cults and insecurities at the same timeit is not the reason. They are symptoms of a deeper hunger, a deeper national identity crisis that were in today  this is our moment as conservatives, as liberty-oriented Americans, to now level up and fill that void with a vision of American national identity that runs so deep that it dilutes the woke agenda to irrelevance.

Asa Hutchinson Touts Experience

Asa Hutchinson, former governor of Arkansas and current Republican presidential candidate, speaks at the Moms for Liberty national summit in Philadelphia on July 1, 2023. (Beth Brelje/The Epoch Times)

Hutchinson served eight years as Arkansas governor and left the job in 2023, having met the term limit. He is now running for the GOPs 2024 nominee.

We want to give our children every opportunity to make a good living when they finish school. I set a goal for computer science in every high school in Arkansas, and we led the nation in terms of a comprehensive education program for computer science, he said. We went from 1,100 students taking computer science to over 23,000 students. We set a model for the nation, weve gone from 10 percent of schools across the nation that have computer science, to 51 percent.

As president, Hutchinson said he would put computer science programs in every high school in America.

As governor, he signed a transparency bill requiring school districts to put that the curriculum they are teaching on a website. The law defines a process for parents to go to the school board and raise objections if they wish.

Hutchinson said he would take the heavy hand of government off the backs of local school districts, so parents have their voices heard.

I dont want a leftist government telling parents, or interfering with how they deal with the most sensitive issues in terms of genders and healthcare. And I dont want a conservative government doing it either. I want the government out. I want the parents to decide.

Im running for President of the United States because. If you look at all the candidates running, youll see no one with the breadth of experience at the state and federal level that I bring to the table, Hutchinson said.

As a federal prosecutor that addressed fights in the streets, Hutchinson had also been in charge of border security.

I know what needs to be done on the southern border, balancing a budget. We actually did in the Congress 20 years ago. We need to do it again. And I have done it as a governor as well, he said.
Russian Media Watchdog Blacklists Outlets Linked to Wagner Mercenary Chief

Yevgeny Prigozhin, the owner of the Wagner Group military company, records his video addresses in Rostov-on-Don, Russia, on June 24, 2023. (Prigozhin Press Service via AP)

Russias media watchdog blacklisted at least five media outlets affiliated with Wagner mercenary chief Yevgeny Prigozhin and blocked their websites in Russia. The move came after Wagner fighters took control of a Russian military headquarters and advanced on Moscow in what appears to have been an attempted insurrection.

As of Saturday, websites of the RIA FAN news agency and four online news portals controlled by Prigozhins Patriot media holding company Peoples News, Neva News, Politics Today, and Economy Todaywere listed on a register of blacklisted sites maintained by the communications watchdog, Roskomnadzor.

Unconfirmed reports in Russian news outlets Friday claimed that Prigozhin himself had ordered a shut down of St. Petersburg-based Patriot. Prigozhin has not directly confirmed or denied the reports.

Patriot, founded in 2019 to bring together Prigozhins media and internet assets, included the Internet Research Agency, the so-called troll farm linked to Russian attempts to meddle in U.S. elections.

Patriot director Yevgeny Zubarev said last week that the Internet Research Agency, which was tasked with conducting online influence operations to advance Russian interests, had operated under Prigozhins control since 2009 before being brought under the Patriot umbrella. .

In the run-up to the 2016 U.S. presidential election, IRA employees regularly posed as Americans to offer financial help to U.S. protest movements tackling socially divisive topics, according to a 2017 investigation by Russian newspaper RBC.

The investigation, based on accounts from several IRA employees, identified more than 100 Facebook, Instagram and Twitter accounts it said were used to contact U.S.-based activists offering help with organizing protests and events, focusing on race relations and gun rights among other front-page issues.

Prigozhin admitted in November that he had interfered in the 2016 election.

He and his fighters escaped prosecution and were offered refuge in Belarus last week after the president of Belarus helped broker a deal to end what appeared to be an armed insurrection by the mercenary group.

Prigozhins media group encompassed dozens of media outlets.
Supreme Court Justices Clash in Christian Designer Case

Associate Justices Sonia Sotomayor, and Neil Gorsuch in the East Conference Room of the Supreme Court in Washington on June 1, 2017. (Alex Wong/Getty Images)

As the Supreme Court ruled that Colorado cannot compel a website designer to create messages that go against her Christian beliefs, both Justices Sonia Sotomayor and Gorsuch clashed in separate opinions.

Today, the Court, for the first time in its history, grants a business open to the public a constitutional right to refuse to serve members of a protected class, Sotomayor wrote in her dissent, claiming that the 63 majority ruling was a backlash to the movement for liberty and equality for gender and sexual minorities.

Elaborating, Sotomayor, an appointee of former President Barack Obama, made reference to the 2016 Pulse nightclub shooting that left dozens of people dead as an example of a hate crime against that community. However, reports have pointed out it was never established by either the FBI or federal prosecutors that it was a hate crime of any kind.

Or the Pulse nightclub massacre, the second-deadliest mass shooting in U.S. history? she also wrote, alleging that a social system of discrimination has created an environment in which LGBT people were unsafe.

An investigation and trial later found that the suspect, Omar Mateen, was actually unaware that the Pulse nightclub in Florida was a gay bar and seemingly chose the target at random. His wife testified that Mateen, who had pledged allegiance to the ISIS terrorist group, wanted to first attack a Disney event.

Previously, the FBI also was not able to verify whether Mateen went to the Pulse club, knew the club was a gay bar, or was gay himself.

Federal prosecutors in 2018 also established that Mateen had searched on Google, Orlando nightclubs, after his plot to target a Disney resort fell through. The Pulse club was the first result that came up before he drove there and launched the attack.

Sotomayor also made reference to the 1998 slaying of Matthew Shepard, saying he was targeted by two men, tortured, tied to a buck fence, and left to die for who he was. However, it has long been reported that Shepard, who was gay, was also a methamphetamine user and was murdered by an LGBT individual who told investigators that his death had nothing to do with his sexual orientation.

And journalist Stephen Jimenezs investigative book, The Book of Matt, concluded that his death was the result of a meth deal that went bad rather than an anti-LGBT hate crime, as was claimed by mainstream outlets at the time. He also reported that Shephard was also, at one point, involved in a romantic relationship with one of his killers.

Clash of Opinions

The ruling favored artist Lorie Smith, who sued the state of Colorado over its anti-discrimination laws that had prohibited businesses providing sales or other accommodations to the public based on their sexual orientation.

Justices of the U.S. Supreme Court pose for their official photo at the Supreme Court in Washington on Oct. 7, 2022. (Front LR) Justices Sonia Sotomayor and Clarence Thomas, Chief Justice John Roberts, Justices Samuel Alito and Justice Elena Kagan. (Back LR) Justices Amy Coney Barrett, Neil Gorsuch, Brett Kavanaugh, and Ketanji Brown Jackson. (Olivier Douliery/AFP via Getty Images)

Sotomayor also claimed the majoritys ruling reduced LGBT people to second-class status in the United States.

By issuing this new license to discriminate in a case brought by a company that seeks to deny same-sex couples the full and equal enjoyment of its services, the immediate, symbolic effect of the decision is to mark gays and lesbians for second-class status, Sotomayor wrote, responding to Gorsuchs opinion.

And seemingly responding to Sotomayors arguments in the case, Gorsuch wrote last week that her dissent reimagines the facts from top to bottom and does not answer fundamental constitutional questions such as: Can a State force someone who provides her own expressive services to abandon her conscience and speak its preferred message instead?

Her dissent, he wrote, was a distortion of the case and said, In some places, the dissent gets so turned around about the facts that it opens fire on its own position.

For instance: While stressing that a Colorado company cannot refuse the full and equal enjoyment of [its] services based on a customers protected status  the dissent assures us that a company selling creative services to the public does have a right to decide what messages to include or not to include  But if that is true, what are we even debating? he wrote.
The Supreme Court Saves a Republic on the Edge of Extinction

Commentary

Cue Diana Rossthe Supremes are back!

OK, not those Supremes. Those other Supremes known as SCOTUS (Supreme Court of the United States).

You can tell theyre doing the right thing because the gang at The View is having conniption fitsor so Im told, since I never watch it.

To carry forth the Diana Ross theme, those government Supremes have stopped in the name of love (for the American people) several programs of the supposedly liberal or progressive Biden administration that in reality arent liberal or progressive at all, but reactionary.

Do you Hear a Symphony? OK, enough of that.

Whatever you say about our 45th president, Donald J. Trumpand I say mostly positive thingshe certainly did well with his Supreme Court selections.

Well, up to a point. Associate Justices Brett Kavanaugh and Amy Coney Barrett have had their rocky momentsperhaps out of fear the court would be packedbut have shaped up of late, particularly in recent decisions I will get into in a moment.

And the man who is todays Antonin Scalia was nominated by President George H.W. Bush.

I never say long live anybody because it smacks of fascism and was said of people like Francisco Franco, but I do say Long Live Clarence Thomas! I hope the man makes it to 120 and stays on the court until hes 118.

But on to the rulingsfirst up being Bidens attempt to wipe out student loan debt by executive order.

How is that constitutional? I wondered when I first heard about it, and apparently the Supreme Court agreed 63. But it was more than just constitutionality. It would seem evident it was a bad idea if you were remotely in favor of fairness.

How is it fair to cancel the loans of one group when many have already been paying or have paid off theirs, in some cases for years? Not to mention it forces those who elected not to go to collegea growing cohort with increasing justification for their decisionto pay, via taxation, for those who chose to go. Fair? Not even close.

But beyond all this is the issue known in economics as moral hazarda phrase that has been defined variously but basically, according to The Economic Times, is a situation in which one party gets involved in a risky event knowing that it is protected against the risk and the other party will incur the cost.

The first party in this case is the student or family taking out the education loan while knowing they wont have to pay it back because you, the taxpayer, will pay it for them.

What Biden is attempting in this obvious vote grab actually is giving a message to these young people that would, in many cases, ultimately destroy their lives.

Then theres the Supremes earlier decision on affirmative action that for years has delivered a similar message replete with its own form of moral hazard.

As someone who was in the civil rights movement, I became suspicious of affirmative action quite some time ago. Something was going wrong, its roots well-described in Shelby Steels White Guilt: How Blacks and Whites Together Destroyed the Promise of the Civil Rights Era.

That 2007 book that I consider a modern classic is now being made into a documentary by Shelby and his son Eli Steele. Its none too soon.

Heres a sample of Shelbys work for those who dont know it:

Anti-Americanism, whether in Europe or on the American left, works by the mechanism of white guilt. It stigmatizes America with all the imperialistic and racist ugliness of the white Western past so that America becomes a new kind of straw man, a construct of Western sin. (The Abu Ghraib and Guantanamo prisons were the focus of such stigmatization campaigns.) Once the stigma is in place, one need only be anti-American in order to be good, in order to have an automatic moral legitimacy and power in relation to America.

That was authored by a black man who was able to write that eloquently and insightfully without the aid of affirmative action. I am proud to know him as a (too-distant) friend.

Meanwhile, consider for a second the self-image of the black student sitting in the library at Harvard or Yale surrounded by people whose SATs were 200 points above his or hers. What is he supposed to think? Is he supposed to forget this? Can he? Does he feel like a charity case not just for the moment, but for the rest of his life? What does that do to him? Is he likely then to be angry?

Back in the old civil rights days, we fought for integration. Now, on college campuses across the nation, we see segregation growing, with black students even having their own graduation at Harvard.

We were fighting for that? How did that come to pass?

Would things have moved along to that desired equality more successfully without affirmative action regulations that caused discrimination against others, mainly Asians? I would bet on it.

Associate Justice Sonia Sotomayor is upset about the SCOTUS decisions to end affirmative action because at bottom, the six unelected members of todays majority [upended] the status quo based on their policy preferences about what race in America should be.

Unelected? What was she? Who elected her?

I wonder if Sotomayor knew of the Pew poll from early June saying 50 percent of U.S. adults disapproved of selective colleges considering race or ethnicity in admissions, while only 33 percent approved.

Hers was truly a minority opinion.

As is so often the case, the more liberal, the more reactionary.

I await White Guilt: The Motion Picture.

Roger L. Simons 14th book, American Refugees, will 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.
UPS Reaches Tentative Deal With Teamsters, Lowering Risk of Union Strike

GLENDALE, CA - JULY 22: A United Parcel Service (UPS) driver delivers packages on July 22, 2010 in Glendale, California. UPS said its second quarter profit nearly doubled posting a net profit of $845 million, or 84 cents a share, compared to $445 million or 44 cents a year ago. (Photo by Kevork Djansezian/Getty Images)

The United Parcel Service (UPS) has made a tentative deal with workers, lowering the risk of a nationwide strike led by the International Brotherhood of Teamsters.

On June 29, the Teamsters Union said a nationwide strike was imminent after walking away from the negotiating table, giving UPS a single day to return with its last, best, and final offer.

However, the union ultimately held off on carrying out the threat when UPS returned to the table with an updated deal.

UPS is the second-largest ground carrier of packages in the United States, only behind the U.S. Postal Service. The company delivers some 20 million packages per day, meaning that a protracted strike could be devastating for some industries and workers.

Despite the agreement to a deal that addresses many Teamster demands, the union has emphasized that other issues remain unresolved, and that the threat of a strike is still on the table.

Tentative Deal

Now, the Teamsters say they reached a deal with the delivery giant on July 1, diminishing the risk that theyll follow through on their planned strike.

During a hard-fought day at the bargaining table, the #Teamsters reached tentative agreement with @UPS on three major economic issues: tearing down the 22.4 two-tier wage system, establishing Martin Luther King Day as a full holiday for the first time, and ending forced overtime on drivers days off, a Twitter thread from the union reads.

The UPS 22.4 system, a key point of contention for the union, establishes a two-tier seniority system whereby many newer employees at UPS work under stricter conditions for less pay than their more senior peers, according to a grassroots Teamsters organization.

Established employees, including all those who worked for the company prior to 2018, when the 22.4 classification was negotiated, are dubbed Regular Package Car Drivers (RPCD).

For instance, 22.4 employees do not enjoy the same time-off benefits as more senior employees, who are allowed to refuse to work more than three hours of overtime per month under terms negotiated by Teamsters earlier. They also make less than RPCD drivers, despite having the opportunity to receive annual wage bumps as their experience with the company increases.

The new deal negotiated between Teamsters and UPS will do away with the system, immediately promoting all 22.4 employees to the rank of RPCD, which will in turn mean that current 22.4 employees see a pay increase when the new rules go into effect.

UPS commented on the revision to 22.4 status in a statement to The Epoch Times.

UPS and the Teamsters have agreed to eliminate Article 22.4 positions from the next National Master Agreement. These roles, which were introduced during our 2018 negotiations with the Teamsters, were intended to provide UPS with the flexibility to meet increased consumer demand for weekend service. Under the new agreement, existing 22.4 positions would be converted to regular, full-time package car roles working Tuesday through Saturday schedules, and no package-car driver would be forced to work an unscheduled sixth day. This agreement allows UPS the flexibility to address our customers desire for weekend delivery.

The company also said it was pleased to have been able to reach an agreement to allow MLK Day to be a guaranteed day off for workers.

UPS has a long history of honoring Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., whose life and legacy changed the world. His values align with our approach to service and underpin our ongoing commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion, the company said. Over recent months, and as part of our negotiations with the Teamsters, weve heard from UPSers that they would value MLK Day as a paid holiday to remember Dr. King and spend time giving back to their communities. Starting next year, MLK Day will be added as a paid day off for U.S. UPS employees. We are pleased that we were able to come to an agreement with the Teamsters on this employee priority.

In addition, it will ensure that drivers are not forced to work on days they were previously scheduled to be off.

The extraordinary gains, each of which have been key issues for #Teamsters throughout the yearlong contract campaign, came on the heels of an aggressive public warning from the Teamsters National Negotiating Committee that @UPS was running out of time to get a deal, the Teamsters wrote on Twitter.

Strike Threats Continue

Teamsters General President Sean M. OBrien applauded the deal, but emphasized that the threat of a strike was still on the table.

Gains made by the Teamsters at the national table with UPS today cannot be overstated. From the jump, UPS knew we demanded an end to forced overtime, the respect to take MLK Day as a real holiday, and the complete destruction of the unfair 22.4 wage system, OBrien said. The Teamsters have achieved these critical tentative agreements for our members.

But make no mistake, OBrien added. We are not done. UPS knows we must reach full agreement on other economic issues, including higher wages, within the next few days.

OBrien said the Teamsters hope to have the new contract and benefits negotiated go into effect on Aug. 1. But as he emphasized, other issues remain unresolved, meaning the threat of a strike remains on the table.

We have repeatedly told UPS that a new contract must be in place by August 1. The Teamsters will not work one minute beyond the expiration of our current agreement. UPS did not want to make progress on economics, but they conceded today that they will reach a deal by July 5 because they have no choice, OBrien said in a statement.
Wall Street Investment Banks Face Bleak Prospects in China

The entrance of the New York Stock Exchange with the Wall Street sign on Sept. 16, 2008. (Stan Honda/AFP)

Recent data from Dealogic shows that wall street investment banks face bleak prospects in the Chinese market. Lucia Dunn, an economics professor at Ohio State University, says that the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) will never deal with them in a Western-standard fairway.

After lobbying the Trump administration to sign a trade war ceasefire agreement with the CCP, Wall Street was thrown a sweet pie by the CCP, allowing foreign banks to operate wholly owned subsidiaries in China. According to the U.S.China trade agreement, the CCP authorities lifted the foreign ownership limits in the mutual fund and securities industries on April 1, 2020.

However, after more than three years of financial involvement in China, Wall Street giants now find that learning from their joint venture partners, Chinese state-owned enterprises have entrenched positions in the financial sector that foreign firms simply cannot compete with.

According to data from Dealogic, the top 10 underwriters of IPOs in China this year and last year did not include any foreign banks. In 2018, half of the top 10 were foreign banks, including Goldman Sachs and Morgan Stanley.

As of June 16, this year, overseas investors, including those from Hong Kong, held around $364 billion worth of stocks in Shanghai and Shenzhen, which is less than 3 percent of the entire market, according to Wind data.

Among the seven Wall Street and European investment banks operating in China, Credit Suisse, Deutsche Bank, Goldman Sachs, and HSBC reported losses in their Chinese subsidiaries in 2022, while Morgan Stanley saw a decline in profits. JPMorgan and UBS were the only banks with profit growth.

Last year, the total revenue of 140 investment banks in China was 395 billion yuan ($56 billion), with the combined revenue of these seven European and American investment banks accounting for only 0.1 percent, Financial Times reported.

In May, Morgan Stanley announced another round of layoffs that will result in a 7 percent reduction in its Asia-Pacific investment banking division, leaving many bankers unemployed. Since September of last year, at least 100 China-focused foreign investment banking positions have been lost. Goldman Sachs alone has laid off over 10 percent of its staff in China, which is more than 60 people.

Lucia Dunn, an economics professor at Ohio State University, told The Epoch Times on June 11: I think the CCP will cut off more and more businesses until Western companies finally wake up and see the handwriting on the wall.

Dunn said: In my own industryhigher educationfor many years China enticed Western academics to come there to teach by offering lavish payments. Then when they thought they had gotten all they could appropriate from Western academics, they kicked many of us out. I think the same will happen with other industries. Eventually, many Western companies will voluntarily leave because the conditions the CCP is imposing will mean they can no longer make adequate profits. I think the CCP will squeeze them to the limit.

In addition to poor market performance, foreign investment banks also face regulatory issues in China. For example, the CCPs stringent data rules make it difficult for their subsidiaries in China to share crucial information with their headquarters, including the actual operation of their funds and the identities of their clients.

These foreign investment banks have also received demands from CCP regulatory agencies to control executive compensation and defer bonuses to comply with Chinese leader Xi Jinpings so-called common prosperity goal.

Dunn stated that major investments by American and European companies in China are shortsighted.

I think there is too much uncertainty, and I think the CCP will never deal with them in a way that does not violate Western standards of fairness. The CCP does not provide a legal framework for fair and balanced conduct of business. I think it will only get worse over time as the CCP faces its own internal challenges.

Wall Streets Shuttle Diplomacy

In February 2018, when former President Donald Trump launched a trade war against China, putting the Chinese regime in a difficult position, Chinese Vice Premier Liu He traveled to Washington D.C. seeking a truce and turned to a group of Wall Street tycoons for help.

Liu appealed to the gathering of Wall Street executives at a hotel near the White House, saying, We need your assistance. Among these individuals were Larry Fink, CEO of BlackRock; David Solomon, then co-president of Goldman Sachs; and Jamie Dimon, CEO of JPMorgan Chase. At the time, Dimon served as chairman of the Business Roundtables China Committee.

Liu made a promise to the gathering. He said the Chinese regime would provide new opportunities for American financial firms to expand in China.

In November of that year, Peter Navarro, former economic advisor to the Trump administration, criticized the behavior of Wall Street tycoons during a speech at the Center for Strategic and International Studies, saying, Lets think about this now. Consider the shuttle diplomacy thats now going on by a self-appointed group of Wall Street bankers and hedge fund managers between the U.S. and China. As part of a Chinese government influences operation, these globalist billionaires are putting a full-court press on the White House in advance of the G-20 in Argentina.

Shuttle diplomacy refers to a type of diplomacy where a mediator travels back and forth between two or more parties in order to facilitate negotiations and resolve disputes.

Anders Corr, the founder of Corr Analytics and publisher of Political Risk Magazine, told The Epoch Times on June 11 that Wall Street tycoons naturally want to avoid military and economic conflict that would likely hurt his companys prospects for profit, including in China. By lobbying Washington to de-risk the relationship with China rather than de-couple, which would impose greater costs on the regime in Beijing, Beijing may be willing to provide a sweetheart deal to banks that increase their profits and CEO bonuses that vest over time.

Wall Street tycoons have helped China on more than one occasion, driven by their own interests.

Wall Street Tycoons Often Assist China

In the late 1990s, when Chinese banks were struggling with a mountain of bad loans, then-Premier Zhu Rongji asked American investment bankers, including Hank Paulson, Chairman of Goldman Sachs and former U.S. Treasury Secretary, to help clean up the mess.

Following the February 2018 meeting, Liu He approached Larry Fink and BlackRock for assistance in restructuring Chinas pension system. Liu He claimed that the rapidly aging population could lead to a significant shortfall in Chinas pension funds in the coming years. Subsequently, Fink expressed that BlackRock could help the Chinese authorities with this issue.

BlackRock has followed Chinas directives, including in 2017 when it proposed amendments to the articles of association of Chinese companies listed in Hong Kong, such as the Industrial and Commercial Bank of China and the oil and gas giant China Petroleum & Chemical Corporation. The proposed changes required these companies boards of directors to seek the opinion of the Chinese Communist Party committee on major decisions. BlackRock voted in favor of these amendments, even going so far as to flatteringly state: The party committee has played a role in governance making governance clearer and more transparent. However, critics pointed out that these amendments would reduce the influence of shareholders and consolidate the Communist Partys role in corporate governance.
Lets talk about equity in education. Well look at this concept and how it is being applied in Colorado.

Equity is an emotionally charged word, particularly when used in the educational sector. Definitions like this one from the Center for Public Education tell us, Equity is achieved when all students receive the resources, they need so they graduate prepared for success after high school.

This definition sounds like customized teaching. Which is good since one size does not fit all.

Unfortunately, badly led school systems interpret equity as lowering standards, watering down learning and getting rid of anything too hard or too ableist. Inappropriately led school districts promote equity including some definition of racist or privileged that confuses the rest of us.

Bad interpretation of equity has teacher unions railing against capitalism. Likewise, misunderstanding of equity has some parents claiming that it lowers academic rigor for capable students.

Some ways of framing equity insult parents and increase confusion. Like this from Denver Public Schools. Student Equity and Opportunity holds the key to student success in school and success in life.

Was insulting parents the goal of this statement? I agree that a good education can help to bring increased success in the life of students. But removing power from the family even in language  is disrespectful to parents.

Families hold the key to childrens success. No debate needed.

Disrespect like this (even unintended) is why more school boards across the state are being taken over by angry parents.

On top of this, as reported by Chalkbeat, Denver Public Schools possesses the largest gaps in literacy and math between races in Colorado.

Is there a way to create equity that will improve academic outcomes and not cause racial division in our state? Allow me to introduce you to Aaron Griffen, an award-winning educator and author. He is the chief equity officer for DSST Public Schools.

DSST Public Schools is an order of free charter schools in Denver and Aurora. According to U.S. News, the students in these public schools are 97% minority learners and 86% are disadvantaged. Yet the DSST charter schools are among the highest performing in their region.

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DSST offers their working definition of educational equity as this: ensuring that outcomes of DSST students are high-achieving and do not correlate with any adverse social or cultural factors.

I want equity that works like that! So do you. Equity done right produces results like this. On the other hand, equity implemented to manipulate politically advances academic failure.

Toxic equity features age-inappropriate teaching methods, ineffective curriculum, and sometimes oversexualized content. The worst of badly interpreted equity increases racial division.

It is interesting that DSST receives their charter through the Denver public school system. The two organizations have night and day approaches to achieving academic and racial parity. But the DSST approach to achieving parity works better. To date, 100% of DSST graduates have been admitted into college, university, or a post-secondary program including the military.

When asked how the DSST charter schools achieve so consistently Griffen explained, We focus on character development and rigorous academics in equal measure. Our graduates are ready to become the best versions of themselves.

Regarding equity, Griffen tells us, I do equity with people  not to them. I ask folks what their needs are and then make it make sense. I dont rush it... nor do I tear down the whole system.

Griffen is keenly aware of class and racial issues. But his view is refreshing, Because someone mistakenly commits an inequity doesnt mean they are racist, sexist, homophobic, biased, oppressive, or suppressive. Often if given the opportunity ... folks will work to address and correct the issue. He expands this thought saying, Give folks a chance at reciprocity and allow them to show you their unwillingness to improve. Then address that itself not the entire system.

Yes, this is equity  implemented correctly. As support. Of the students. Not a political party. Or the teachers union. Or the egos of administrators or board members.

Lets recap. Equity can be: Customized education that fits the needs of the students. Actual reduction of racial disparity. Rigorous academic and character development. Culturally respectful to students and families.

Colorados DSST charter schools are leading the way with high performance. Their approach to equity in education creates an individualized approach that all Colorado schools need. All low performing school districts in Colorado should consult Griffen and follow their example.

Rachel Stovall is an event manager, entertainer and community advocate.
White House Report Says Blocking Sunlight Can Prevent Global Warming

Special Presidential Envoy for Climate John Kerry (L) listens to President Joe Biden speak on tackling climate change, creating jobs, and restoring scientific integrity in the State Dining Room of the White House in Washington on Jan. 27, 2021. (Mandel Ngan/AFP via Getty Images)

The White House published a report which investigated the possible deployment of climate change techniques like artificially blocking sunlight.

Solar radiation modification (SRM), also known as solar geoengineering, is aimed at preventing sunlight from accelerating the warming of the planet.

Greenhouse gasses warm the climate by blocking a portion of outgoing longwave radiation that would otherwise be emitted into space, states the report (pdf), published by the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy on June 30. By contrast, SRM cools the climate by reflecting a greater amount of incoming solar (shortwave) radiation back into space.  SRM offers the possibility of cooling the planet significantly on a timescale of a few years.

The findings are part of a report the White House prepared in response to a mandate from last years $1.5 trillion spending bill. The White House said in a June 30 statement that the report does not signify any change in policy or activity by the Biden-Harris Administration.

Instead, this report fulfills a Congressional mandate, and there are no plans underway to establish a comprehensive research program focused on solar radiation modification.

Though such artificial cooling could reverse many of the negative consequences of climate change, the report admits that these developments can come with ramifications which are now poorly understood.

The document acknowledged that the research program could help the United States prepare for a possible deployment of SRM through public or private actors.

SRM would not undo the consequences of greenhouse gas emissions. For instance, SRM would not ameliorate most of the impacts of ocean acidification  nor eliminate the tendency for fossil fuel burning to worsen air quality.

In addition, SRM might halt but would not result in the rapid reversal of some important manifestations of climate warming, such as loss of land ice and greenhouse gas emissions from thawing permafrost.

The report also warns about several potential negative consequences of SRM. The procedure can trigger changes in stratospheric temperatures, a rise in sea levels, acidification of oceans, and alteration in precipitation patterns. It can also affect terrestrial vegetation, biodiversity, ecosystems, crop production, and coral reefs.

Model simulations show that the chemistry of the stratosphere may change, and atmospheric circulations may intensify in ways that may lead to seasonal-scale impacts such as more frequent extreme drought or precipitation events, the report stated. Gaps remain in our understanding of how SRM deployments might irreversibly alter the Earths climate system.

In an open letter published in January last year, a group of scientists and scholars called for an international non-use agreement on solar engineering, arguing that such a deal will inhibit further normalization and development of a risky and poorly understood set of technologies that seek to intentionally manage incoming sunlight at planetary scale.

The signatories include Frank Biermann from the Copernicus Institute of Sustainable Development in the Netherlands, Melissa Leach from the Institute of Development Studies at the University of Sussex in the UK, and David Schlosberg from the University of Sydney in Australia.

There are serious concerns about locking in solar geoengineering as an infrastructure and policy option as well as about militarization and security, the letter warned.

Solar geoengineering is not necessary. Neither is it desirable, ethical, or politically governable in the current context. With the normalization of solar geoengineering research moving on with rapid speed, a strong political message to block these technologies is needed. And this message must come soon.

Methods of SRM, US Implementation

The White House document details multiple methods to deploy SRM initiatives. One method is stratospheric aerosol injection (SAI), which involves boosting the amount of aerosols in the stratosphere to reflect sun rays away from the earth. The effect is akin to what happens during volcanic eruptions, which is followed by a cooldown of the planet.

Another method is marine cloud brightening, which involves increasing the reflectivity of certain clouds so that sunlight is reflected back.

Efforts to implement solar geoengineering are already happening. Last year, a startup called Make Sunsets launched weather balloons capable of releasing reflective sulfur particles into the earths atmosphere, which theoretically is believed to potentially cool down the planet.

In an interview with MIT Technology Review, Make Sunsets CEO Luke Iseman said that he expects to be characterized as a Bond villain for what the company is doing, but insists that climate change is a threat.

Other experts have issued warnings against wantonly deploying solar geoengineering projects. David Keith, a leading expert on the subject, explained in a 2018 blog that solar geoengineering is large-scale climate modification which inherently has global consequences that are difficult to quantify even after deployment.
Woman Sacked for Saying Biological Sex Is Real Wins 100,000 Compensation

Maya Forstater, who lost out on a job for saying people cannot change their biological sex, has been awarded 100,000 ($127,000) compensation by an employment tribunal.

She was awarded the payout after it was found she experienced discrimination and victimization at work.

Forstater, who worked as a tax expert at the Centre for Global Development (CGD), didnt get a renewal of her contract in March 2019 after she posted tweets opposing government proposals to reform the Gender Recognition Act to allow people to identify as the opposite sex without a medical diagnosis of gender dysphoria.

In a judgment handed down on Friday, three judges at a London tribunal awarded Forstater compensation of 91,500 ($116,000) and interest of 14,904.31 (almost $19,000).

The compensation is for loss of earnings, injury to feelings, and aggravated damages after the CGD did not renew her contract.

Significant Compensation

Forstater, who co-founded the Sex Matters campaign group two years ago, told The Times of London on Friday: Im happy its over and happy I got significant compensation.

I think it sends a message to employers that this is discrimination like any other discrimination and that the compensation can be significant.

Organisations are going to have to rethink all of their approach to equality and diversity to make sure they really are following the law and not just what activists tell them.

Writer J.K. Rowling poses for the media at the world premiere of the film Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald in Paris on Nov. 8, 2018. (Christophe Ena/AP Photo)

Harry Potter author JK Rowling, who has voiced her support for Forstater before, took to Twitter to congratulate her on her payout.

She wrote: Congratulations to @MForstater, who receives over 100k in compensation from @cgdev, who were found to have discriminated against her due to her gender critical beliefs, which, as her case established, are worthy of respect in a democratic society. #SexMatters.

Protected Belief

Forstaters victory against the CGD came after a ruling at an employment tribunal in June 2021 when she successfully established a binding legal precedent that gender-critical beliefs were in principle protected by the Equality Act.

In July 2022, a fresh employment tribunal ruled that the negative consequences from Forstaters expressions of her protected gender-critical beliefs were unlawfully discriminatory and constituted direct discrimination.

Commenting on the verdict at the time, Forstater said that her case matters for everyone who believes in the importance of truth and free speech.

We are all free to believe whatever we wish, she said. What we are not free to do is compel others to believe the same thing, to silence those who disagree with us, or to force others to deny reality.

Human beings cannot change sex. It is not hateful to say that; in fact it is important in order to treat everyone fairly and safely. It shouldnt take courage to say this and no-one should lose their job for doing so, she added.

Commenting on Fridays ruling on compensation, a CGD spokesperson said: Following the employment tribunals remedy judgment, the case brought against CGD, its president, Masood Ahmed, and CGD Europe by Maya Forstater will come to a close.

CGD has and will continue to strive to maintain a workplace that is welcoming, safe, and inclusive to all, the spokesperson added.

Legal Cases

In addition to Forstaters case, there have been several legal cases involving gender-critical beliefs.

Last week, Denise Fahmy won her claim against her former employer, Arts Council England (ACE), at the Leeds Employment Tribunal.

In a unanimous judgment, the tribunal ruled that Fahmy was subjected to harassment at her workplace for expressing her belief that people cannot change sex.

In July 2022, London-based barrister Allison Bailey won a discrimination case against her own firm after she was placed under investigation for opposing what has been characterised as LGBT charity Stonewalls trans extremism.

Some cases remain ongoing.

In 2021, former criminal defence barrister James Esses was expelled from his psychotherapist training course, three years in. He alleges that this was for openly discussing his fear that young children are actively encouraged to transition gender.

In October 2022, a judge ruled that his claim can be heard in court.

Esses told NTDs British Thought Leaders programme last month that he fears the gender ideology will have serious negative repercussions if unchallenged.

Owen Evans and PA Media contributed to this report.
Xi Jinping Promotes Two More Generals After Wagner Mutiny

(LR) Chinese Communist Party leader Xi Jinping gives a military flag to Wei Fenghe, commander of the Rocket Force of the Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA), and Wang Jiasheng, political commissar of the Rocket Force, in Beijing on Dec. 31, 2015. (Li Gang/Xinhua via AP)

The Chinese Communist Partys (CCP) top leader Xi Jinping promoted two generals in Beijing on June 28, four days after the Wagner mutiny.

The two new generals are Zheng Xuan, political commissar of the Northern Theater Command of the Peoples Liberation Army (PLA), and Ling Huanxin, political commissar of the Academy of Military Sciences, according to CCPs mouthpiece Xinhua News.

General is the highest rank for serving officers in China. The CCPs top leaders use the rank as a carrot to obtain loyalty from their subordinates and purging as a stick-warning to their political rivals.

Xi has been promoting his own generals and purging generals promoted by Jiang and Hu in the name of anti-graft.

Public information shows that Xi has promoted 71 generals since he stepped into the paramount position of the CCP. In comparison, his predecessors Jiang Zemin promoted 79 generals and Hu Jintao promoted 45 generals.

The Wagner revolt against Russias military leadership ended as abruptly as it began, and it may have as profound an impact on China as on Russia, making Xi uneasy about the reliability of Chinas military officers, analysts say.

Wagner Mutiny Makes Xi Worried About Chinas PLA Officers: Analysts

Unlike leaders in democratic countries who are elected by the electorate, CCPs top leaders are selected by previous top leaders as a result of internal fighting and balancing of interests among various political factions within the CCP.

As a regime that believes in power comes from the barrel of a gun, the instability of the military has undoubtedly become a worry for Xi Jinping, especially in the context of the regimes current internal and external difficulties, said Li Yanming, a U.S.-based expert on China issues, in an interview with The Epoch Times on June 24.

Li added that there are signs that the Communist Partys military may be undergoing a new round of purges.

In this photo, disgraced Politburo member Bo Xilai (L) talks to Xu Caihou at the national congress on March 5, 2012. (Liu Jin/AFP/Getty Images)

From June 2 to June 8 this year, the Chinese Communist Partys military newspaper published multiple commentary articles, repeatedly mentioning Guo Boxiong, Xu Caihou, Fang Fenghui, Zhang Yang, and other fallen military tigers, saying that their poisonous influence should be completely and thoroughly eliminated.

At the same time, the CCP issued new rules for serving and retired military officers, regulating their social communications and stipulating them how to deal with social contacts such as government, military, and business circles, friends, and families.

Ni Lexiong, a Chinese military expert and a professor of political science at the Shanghai University of Political Science and Law, told Hong Kong-based South China Morning Post that the CCPs issuance of social guidelines for military cadres was unprecedented, which was not done even in Mao Zedongs times.

A columnist with the alias of Jiang Feng for the Chinese edition of the Voice of America wrote on June 27 that the Wagner mutiny reminds the current CCP leadership that everyone can be an unrevealed two-faced person or potential traitor, and the only subversive threat can only come from within the core of power, wrote Jiang.

The near-record number of promotions of PLAs generals, though viewed as a way to gain the loyalty of rising stars in the military, is an indication of insecurity [of the Chinese regime], reported Chanakya Forum, an India-based magazine on global geopolitics.

Akio Yaita, director of the Taipei office of Japanese media Sankei Shimbun, who was stationed in Beijing for 10 years, also noticed Xis worries about his military cadres.

For Xi Jinping, the cost of attacking Taiwan has gone up again. In the future, when he opens the roster of PLA generals, he may be surprised to find that everyone looks a little like Prigozhin, Yaita wrote in his Facebook account on June 25.

Ning Haizhong contributed to this report.
25 charred to death as bus overturns, catches fire on Samruddhi Expressway





The Hitavada Team : Buldhana : Police suspect human error behind Buldhana crash Only a few passengers were lucky enough to make their way out of the bus before it caught fire

The remains of the deceased were beyond recognition AS THE dark clouds hovered over, the bus of Vidarbha Travels carrying 33 passengers from Nagpur and Wardha started its journey to Pune on Friday evening. However, in the small hours, with nothing but darkness outside and sleeping passengers inside, the bus suddenly overturned due to tyre burst, hit a street-divider and caught fire. In no time, fire engulfed the bus turning it into the pyre of 25 passengers trapped inside. Only a few were lucky enough to make their way out of the bus before it caught fire. On Saturday morning, on that patch of Samruddhi Mahamarg near Pimpalkhuta close to Sindkhed Raja in Buldhana district all that remained of that journey was charred bodies. Lives, their dreams and aspirations all was reduced to ashes. The scene was horrific as it told of the horrors of previous night. Coal-black bodies of children, some grown ups, elderly. A mother struggling till her last breath to save her baby. Though the manifest of the private travels bus operator revealed which seat was occupied by whom, the remains of the deceased were beyond recognition. As the investigators told mediapersons later, the identities would be

established only after DNA testing. As per the details, a bus of Vidarbha Travels (MH 29/BE-1819) was heading towards Pune from Nagpur on Friday evening. At around 1.26 am, the speeding bus suddenly overturned near Sindkhed Raja. As the bus got dragged on the cement road it caught fire due to friction. Even as fire turned fierce, most passengers struggling to get out could not do so and that was the reason behind this huge loss of life. The passenger did try to break the windows but failed. The doors of the air-conditioned bus also were locked adding to passengers plight. Bus driver Sheikh Danish Sheikh Ismail, a resident of Darwah and cleaner Sandeep Rathod, a resident of Yavatmal, escaped to safety and did not suffer any injury. Some passengers also managed to come out of the bus through emergency door. In all eight travellers survived the accident. Passengers with minor injuries have been admitted to rural hospital in Sindkhed Raja. On getting information, Police Department officials reached the spot. Fire brigade vehicle doused the fire. Soon the heart-numbing task of getting bodies of the passengers out of the bus began. District Superintendent of Police Sunil Kadasane also reached the spot at around five in the morning. Five to six ambulances from Sindkhed Raja an Kingaon Raja along with the police personnel from the adjacent police stations reached the spot. T

he charred bodies were brought to Buldhana, where DNA tests would be done. Forensic teams from Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar and Nagpur have reached Buldhana. Late in the afternoon, Maharasthra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde and Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis reached the accident site to take stock of the situation. They also met the survivors in the hospital. Shinde announced an aid of Rs 5 lakh each from the Chief Minister's Relief Fund to the kin of all 25 passengers who died in the accident. Besides, the treatment of those injured would be done free-of-cost. Fadnavis informed that the police administration has been given instructions to conduct a thorough investigation in the accident at Pimpalkhuta. Right from the fitness certificate of the vehicle to other details, will be probed and action will be taken against the guilty.
FM Sharma is sole leader





 Sports Reporter :

WITH a clean slate, FM Ayush Sharma of Madhya Pradesh is leading the table with seven points from seven rounds in the GH Raisoni Memorial Rapid Fide Rating Tournament, part of the Raisoni Chess Festival, that began on Saturday. Sharma was followed by Akash Thakur, Dishank Bajaj and WIM Srushti Pande, all from Nagpur, who were on second spot with six and half points each to their credit. In the seventh round, Sharma defeated Indrajit Mahindrakar on top board. Thakur accounted for Ashwin Daniel of Madhya Pradesh whereas Bajaj scored a win against SS Soman. Srushti beat J Ramkrishna of Telangana. The rapid event is being played in time control of 15 minutes each with 5 seconds increment for each move. The event has attracted a whopping 404 entries.

At the outset, the rapid meet was inaugurated at the hands of Archit Chandak, IPS, Deputy Commissioner of Police (EOW ), Nagpur at GH Raisoni Institute of Information and Technology, Shraddha Park, Wadi Hingna Link Road, Nagpur. The Raisoni Chess Festival is being organised by GH Raisoni Sport and Cultural Foundation jointly with Kalpana Prakash Welfare Foundation and is recognised by Chess Association Nagpur, Maharashtra Chess Association, AICF and FIDE. Archit Chandak, IPS who himself is a FIDE rated Chess player, announced the start of event and extended his wishes for the event. On Sunday, the two remaining rounds of the event will be played in the morning followed by reporting for the blitz event which is scheduled at 11.00 am. The first round of blitz will start at 12.00 noon. The prize distribution function of rapid and blitz events will be held immediately after last round of blitz event.
GST tax payers increased in Ngp Zonefrom 60,000 to 1.99 lakh: R C Sankhala





 Business Bureau

CHIEF Commissioner, CGST, Central Excise & Customs, Nagpur Zone, Nagpur R C Sankhala on Saturday said that the number of GST registration in the zone has gone up to 1.9 lakh in June 2023 from its previous mark of 60,000 in June 20217. This widening of tax payers base has also resulted in hike in revenue collection from Rs 11,000 crore in 2016- 17 to Rs 17,000 crore in 2022- 23, he said while addressing a the CGST officers, staff, professional and others gathered to celebrate GST Day CGST and Central Excise, Customs Nagpur Zone office at Civil Lines in the city. Sankhala further added that the new tax regime has come a long way since it was launched on July 1, 2017. A lot of development has taken place in the tax collection system in the last six years.

However we still have a long way to go forward, he said. On the occasion, Pooja Hirwade, a professional Bharat Natyam exponent, was invited for Ganesh Vandana. Presentations on various topics in view of the completion of six years of GST were also held. The Departmental Officers Abhishek Anand, Joint Commissioner, Shiva P Reddy, Deputy Director (Cost), Prashant Warkar, Superintendent, Shashishekhar Sinha,Superintendent,spokeon various topics of GST such as GST-its achievements, its journey so far, challenges ahead and way forward.

Further, newly recruited Inspectors of the Department presented songs and recited poetry on GST while Arunima Siriah, Senior Hindi Translator, recited a poem penned byVijay Risi, Commissioner, Nagpur-I. Yoagita Mulani, Inspector, expressed her gratitude on behalf of the newly recruited Inspectors. Vote of thanks was proposed by B Bikshapathi, Assistant Commissioner. SuperintendentsShashishekhar Sinha and Manjusha Pardikar conducted the proceedings.
No change in stand on Uniform Civil Code: Cong





NEW DELHI :

THE Congress on Saturday stuck to its stated stand on the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) that it is undesirable at this stage and noted that it will comment further if a draft bill or a report on the issue comes up. The partys top leadership held its parliamentary strategy group meeting where they discussed various issues to be raised during the Monsoon session of Parliament beginning July 20. The Congress is set to corner the Government on issues of Manipur violence, wrestlers protest, inflation, rising unemployment and the manner in which various Governors are conducting themselves.

Talking to reporters after the meeting, Congress general secretary Jairam Ramesh said the party had already made its stand clear on the UCC on June 15. He said since there is nothing extra during the last 15 days on the matter, the party has nothing to add on it as of now. On June 15 we issued a statement, but there is no change in stand on UCC, he said. When theres a draft and a discussion we will participate and examine what is proposed. As of now, all we have is law commission public notice for responses. The Congress reiterates the statement as nothing new has happened, he said. The Congress had alleged the Law Commissions latest attempt to seek fresh public opinion on UCC represents the Narendra Modi governments desperation for continuing with its agenda of polarisation and diversion from its failures.
PM launches National Sickle Cell Anaemia Eradication Mission 2047 in Shahdol





Our Correspondent :

SHAHDOL,

PRIME Minister Narendra Modi launched the National Sickle Cell Anaemia Eradication Mission 2047 at Lalpur in Shahdol district of Madhya Pradesh, on Saturday. Along with this, digital Ayushman cards were distributed to 3.5 crore beneficiaries with one click.

During his speech, the Prime Minister attacked the Opposition and said that they should beware of those who give false guarantees. He said that the guarantee of the Congress means a flaw in the intention and an injury to the poor. PM Modi said that those who do not have any guarantee of their own, they are bringing new schemes with guarantees. Identify the hidden flaws in their guarantee. Recognise the fraud hidden in the name of false guarantee. When they guarantee free electricity, it means they are going to hike electricity tariff. When free travel is guaranteed, it means that the traffic system is going to be ruined.

When the pension is guaranteed to be increased, it means that the employees in that State will not even get their salaries on time. When they guarantee cheap petrol, it means that they are preparing to withdraw money from your pocket by increasing taxes. When he guarantees to increase employment, it means that he will come up with a policy to destroy the industry.

Making a big announcement, PM Modi said that the Government of India will celebrate 500th birth anniversary of Rani Durgavati across the country. A film will be made on her life, a silver coin will be issued, he added.

Attacking the Opposition, PM Modi said that they will take their family forward by giving false guarantees, but you will be left behind. You have to be careful with the guarantees of every political party including the Congress.
Young dreams snuffed out on road to Pune





 The Hitavada Team

A PERSON is often an amalgam of dreams, hopes, aspirations not just his own but others as well. The gruesome accident near Sindkhedraja which put an end to 25 lives has left many, many unconsolable people mourning the loss of their dear ones. Wardha city was numb with shock. Of the 14 passengers that boarded the bus only one survived. Many of those who breathed their last in the ghastly accident were heading to Pune for fulfilling dreams. Some were pursuing careers, some going for education, some for jobs. Most were young lives snuffed out before they could see the big world.

VANKAR FAMILYS three generations perished in the inferno. Vrishali Parineet Vankar, Shobha Vankar and Vaishalis 2- year-old adopted daughter Ovi did not survive the accident. The family from Chandrapur had come to Wardha for a wedding.

AVANTIKA PAUNIKAR,a model by profession was on her way to Pune. She had cancelled her plans to go abroad to take care of ailing mother and sister.

RADHIKA MAHESH KHADSE , a resident of Sainagar, Wardha, was BPharm graduate was pursuing further studies in Pune and had come to attend a wedding.

TEJAS POKALE, an IT engineer from Krishnanagar, had recently got a job in Pune and was on his way to join the company. A bright student for childhood,Tejas was the jope of Pokale family and a role model for younger sister, also pursuing engineering. The accident snapped all dreams.

KARAN BUDHBAVRE, of Zadshi, was to reach Pune onGuru Poornima to bring hir sister back for the first time after her recent wedding. He has now left the family completely broken-hearted.

SHREYA VANJARI AND RADHIKA KHADSE , both roommates, pursuing careers in Pune, were heading there together.

PRATHAMESH KHODE, of Sahyog Nagar area, had gone to cancel his ticket to Pune where he was heading to meet friends already there. He was cancelling his plan to host another friend but at the last moment decided against cancelling the ticket and continued with his journey. He had even returned home to take his headphones. If only he had cancelled his plan!

SUSHIL DINKAR KHELKAR,all but 23, a resident Paonar, was on his way to Pune to collect documents from his college for the job he had secured in Mumbai. The only son of a grocer, Sunils journey turned out to be his last.

RAJSHREE GANDOLE (47), a promoter of herbal life products from Arvi, was staying with her relatives in Wardha and was on her way to meet her husband.

SANJIVANI GOTHE, a computer engineer, who hailed from Allipur of Hinganghat taluka, had just received appointment letter from Excel Company and was to join on Saturday, July 1. Daughter of Sankarrao Gothe of LIC, she had bid her family farewell with great hopes. Needless to say, she leaves her family in unconsolable grief.

TANISHA PRASHANT TAIYDE of Pulpaial, Wardha, had got admission in Fergusson College, Pune. She had lost her father and was recovering from that grief.

Out of 5 from Yavatmal, 3 escape inferno

 DistrictCorrespondent

YAVATMAL,

July 1 OF THE five people who boarded the ill-fated bus from Yavatmal, Sujal Sonone of the city and Nikhil Vasant Pate of Gandari in Babhulgaon taluka fell victim of the bus inferno. Both were heading to Pune in search of job. Sujal had just completed engineering and was looking for openings in Pune, while Nikhil, who hailed from poor family was desperately looking for means to support his family and was on his way to Pune for job. Fortunately, driver of the bus, Sheikh Danish Sheikh Ismail, a resident of Darwa, Cleaner Sandeep Maroti Rathod, a resident ofTivasav. Passenger Shishikant Ramakrishna Gajbhiye, , a resident of Pandharkawda, had a narrow escape as he was pulled out of the burning bus in time.
Young dreams snuffed out on road





 Four young persons from Nagpur were among the 26 who lost their lives on Samruddhi Mahamarg after their bus caught fire enroute to Pune on Saturday. The deceased have been identified as Ishant Gupta (20), a resident of Dabha; Zoya alias Gudiya Shiekh, (26), a resident of Nirala Society, Motha Tajbag; her friend Riya Somkuwar (21), a resident of Kumbhare Colony, New Kamptee and Kaustubh Kale (26), a resident of Manewada. One Ayush Ghadge, a resident of Nagpur, survived the accident as he managed to break open the windshield and jumped off the ill-fated bus.





Ammi, Ja Rahi Hoon were her last words

 Staff Reporter :

AMMI, Ja Rahi Hoon, were the last words heard by the family members of 27-year-old Zoya alias Gudiya J a m a l u d d i n Shaikh, one of the deceased among the 26 persons who lost thier lives on Samruddhi Mahamarg while travelling in a private bus that caught fire in the wee hours of Saturday. The death of Zoya, the sole provider for her family, left her family shattered and engulfed in grief. She was residing with her mother, Husnara Begum, and siblings, Azhar Sheikh (31) and Zakiruddin (24), in a rented house near Nirala Society in Tajbagh. A local resident said that the family had been struggling economically after the untimely demise of their father eight years ago. Due to their father's death, the children lost their educational opportunities.

After completing Class 12, Zoya took the responsibility of the family and secured a job in an event company. She ensured that her mother and brothers had their basic needs met. Zoyas elder brother, Azhar, worked for DishTV, while Zakiruddin worked as a labourer with a tile contractor, the person said. On Friday afternoon, Zoya bid farewell to her family, uttering the words, Ammi ja rahi hoon, as she left for the event in Pune. Little did anyone know that it would be the last time they would hear her voice.

The tragedy struck when Zoya was enroute Pune in the bus of Vidarbha Travels. The news of Zoya's untimely demise was conveyed to the family by her nephew, Sultan, leaving them in a state of shock and deep sorrow. With Zoyas untimely death, the family not only lost their primary source of income, but also a beloved member who tirelessly cared for their well-being. The Sheikh familys financial situation was so bad that they had not even celebrated the recent Eid. Now, the tragic loss of Zoya has made it worse. As a person selflessly dedicated and committed to her family, she leaves behind a void which cant be filled.





Job aspirant dies with dream unfulfilled

Kamptee Correspondent :

AMONG the victims of the bus tragedy at Buldhana was Riya Ganesh Shyamkuvar, a 19- year-old resident of Kumbhare Colony in New Kamptee. Riya, filled with hope and aspirations, had recently completed her Hotel M a n a g e m e n t course in Mumbai and was anticipating a dream job opportunity in Pune. However, fate dealt her with a cruel blow as she was charred in the fire, along with her friend, Gudiya Shaikh, a resident of Nagpur. A pall of gloom descended upon Kamptee after the news of Riyas death in the bus tragedy spread in the town. The family members received the confirmation about Riyas death at around 11 am on Saturday. They rushed to Sindkhed Raja. Riya's journey to pursue her dreams in Pune had started with completion of a Hotel Management course in Mumbai. She had returned from Mumbai to her hometown just two months ago. Gudiya had previously secured a confirmed ticket forVidarbha Travels, while Riya's ticket remained unconfirmed. So, they decided to travel together on Gudiyas ticket, unaware of the dreadful fate that awaited them, he said. Riya, the youngest sibling, among four sisters and two brothers, was dreaming to support the family which had been struggling financially. With both parents working as manual labourers, the family was residing in a rented room. Riyas determination was the hope for the family to alleviate their hardships, a resident of her area said.





He was on the bus for a Pune job interview

 Staff Reporter

THE hopes and dreams of Kaustubh Kale, a young job seeker from Nagpur, were shattered when he became one of the victims of a horrific bus accident. Kaustubh, a resident of Swami Samarth Nagari on Besa-Pipla Road, had recently applied for a job in Pune. His interview was scheduled for Monday. On Friday afternoon, he bid farewell to his parents, seeking their blessings, and boarded the bus bound for Pune. Little did he or his family know that it would be the last time they would see him alive. During his journey, Kaustubh called his elder sister around 1 am. The conversation was cut short when he assured her that he would call again soon.Tragically, the accident occurred within minutes after their conversation, which left his family in a state of shock and disbelief. The news of the accident reached Kaustubhs family on Sunday morning. They learnt about the horrifying accident on the television. Soon after, they learnt that their beloved son was among the victims. Kaustubh's sisters recalled his determination to secure a good job. With one sister residing in Pandharkawada and the other living with Kaustubh. They were supporting each other through life's challenges. Kaustubh's parents were informed that he had been injured in the accident.





Ayush survived mishap, escaped just in time





 Staff Reporter :

AYUSH Ghadge is among the lucky few who escaped the ghastly accident that claimed 26 lives on Saturday. Ayush boarded the bus of Vidarbha Travels from Butibori. As per the initial plan, he and his three friends were to board the same bus. However, the plan changed and he boarded the bus, while his three friends boarded another bus fromWani.Their bus was a few minutes distance behind Vidarbha Travels bus heading to Pune. As Ayush told mediapersons, after a dinner break,VidarbhaTravels bus resumed its journey towards Pune. Around 1.30 am, he was shaken out of his sleep by a loud thud and a couple of fellow passengers banging on him. He realised that something was wrong. He and some other passengers started hitting the window panes to get out of the bus. He called his friends on their cellphone. Within minutes, the bus his friends were travelling in, reached the spot. Ayush and a few other passengers managed to come out of the Vidarbha Travels bus just in time. His friends were relieved to see that Ayush had escaped unhurt.
Society sometimes overcorrects when righting its wrongs. Attempts to stand up for those who have suffered discrimination in one form or another can, in some cases, backfire and undermine the fundamental rights of others. Thats when courts must step in and draw the line.

The U.S. Supreme Court did just that last week, twice, in landmark rulings.

It struck down race-based admissions policies in higher education across the country. And  in a Colorado-centered precedent in which the appellant and the justice who penned the majority opinion are Coloradans  the court sensibly ruled anti-discrimination laws cannot force a business to express views that conflict with its values.

Both decisions reflect an understanding by the nations highest court that the law had gone too far in addressing inequities  by creating inequities.

As we noted here last week, the decision curbing affirmative action, in the case Students for Fair Admissions v. President and Fellows of Harvard College, was overdue. Letting students cut in line in the admissions process because of their race  even if intended to redress past discrimination  is unfair.

First and foremost, its unfair to those very students. Affirmative action wrongly presumes such students dont have what it takes to succeed. That stands to undermine the sense of initiative every student should have. It then doubles down by saddling those students with the stigma of having received preferential treatment.

The courts decision in Colorados 303 Creative LLC v. Elenis set needed boundaries around governments ability to control individual creative expression in the name of advancing tolerance.

The case was fraught with the long-standing tension of the gay-rights debate, yet it really was about something more elementary  whether the law can force people to express themselves in ways that clash with their core beliefs. The court ruled the law cannot do so.

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The case featured a self-employed Colorado web designer, who wanted to expand her services into designing websites for weddings.

Colorados anti-discrimination laws, however, would compel Lorie Smith to design sites for same-sex weddings, too. Smith objected, based on her religious beliefs  beliefs widely held by many Christians, Muslims, Jews and others.

Colorados U.S. Supreme Court Justice Neil Gorsuch wrote for the courts 6-3 majority that Smith could not be forced by the law to create, essentially, a work of art that goes against her values. Gorsuch wrote it was clear Smiths web designs are a form of expression and thus are protected by the First Amendment.

Lets be clear about what the courts ruling doesnt do. It doesnt imperil historic anti-discrimination laws regarding public accommodations, i.e., laws barring discrimination against apartment tenants, loan applicants, restaurant patrons and so forth. More to the point, it doesnt let any business refuse service because of a customers sexual orientation.

The case  much like Colorados high-profile Masterpiece Cakeshop case, decided on a legal tangent by the court in 2018  never was about the sexual orientation of customers despite attempts by some on the other side of the issue to suggest otherwise.

Indeed, Smith wouldnt have any reason to know or care about the sexual orientation of her clients. She simply didnt want to be forced to create a website endorsing what she opposed.

As the court highlighted, her decisions to create speech always turn on what message is requested, never on who requests it, said Kristen Waggoner, president and general counsel of Alliance Defending Freedom, the public-interest legal advocacy organization that had represented Smith in her court battle.

In both cases, the court restored reason to policies that overreached in attempting to tackle discrimination. All of us can welcome that.
A good day for America

The Supreme Courts decision to strike down the use of race as a criteria for college admissions is a huge step toward Martin Luther Kings dream of a color-blind society. And perhaps its a signal that the liberal DEI bandwagon can be pushed into the ditch as well.

In effect, affirmative action has been a policy of racial discrimination for the purpose of ending discrimination. Now five decades later, its failure is on full display. The court said as much, recalling that even its proponents said 25 years should be enough to validate the initiative. Americans sense its basic unfairness, discriminating against Whites while messaging to non-Whites that they dont have the ability to make it on merit.

Nonsense. Look at the Asian American community  reviled, discriminated against, and enslaved. The disproportionate success of Asian Americans in school and professionally is a cultural phenomenon, not the result of any governmental program.

They asked not for equity but for an equal opportunity to work hard and succeed. And have they!

A more glaring example would be professional sports, the ultimate meritocracy. Bring your game and compete. All have the opportunity, and the color of your skin matters not. This resonates with Americans, because it how we think things should be.

We need to stop buying into the notion that the deck is and always has been stacked against folks based on race. It was true many decades ago, but it is not true today. That tired theme is championed by politicians who want to perpetuate their constituency by making them dependent on government policy and largess.

It was a good day for Martin Luther King  and all of America  if we are courageous enough to follow the direction it points.

Matt Coleman

Colorado Springs

Equity kills equality

The ugly truth about equity is that it is impossible to exist without killing equality. Equality is a noble pursuit. It demands, that despite any physical or societal preference, that all people be afforded the same opportunities. It realizes, that in providing the same chance, that the value and dignity of each person is unique and worthy.

Equity, on the other hand, is evil in nature. It insists that despite efforts, that all benefits or results be equal. By definition, it must take from others to bestow unwarranted favor. In essence, to steal the fruits of another persons merit to satiate the undeserved desire of self.

Equality in no way diminishes grace or benevolence. On the contrary, it enables kindness and respect. To give of oneself  to generously recognize and offer recompense to those that have less. The difference is enormous.

Ron Robins

Monument

Lower your Rx cost

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It is legal to import a personal prescription to Colorado from Canada yes, legal. Time for your online research seniors, to verify this and find out how you can begin cutting costs. According to a national publication for seniors, I learned that 6 states (including Colorado) have passed laws allowing importation, with Colorado being the one that has also received the FDA approval. All this information can be verifed online.

When Tricare/Express Scripts refused to continue providing my RX several years ago, although it was requested by my gastrologist I verified the information and set up an account with a Canadian pharmacy.

Your doctor will not assist you in this, for ethical reasons I presume, but if I can get these arrangements made, Id say anyone can. The result is an annual saving of $3,000  enough to pay my real estate taxes and homeowners insurance with some to spare.

The Rx is shipped via CAN/USPS and arrives safely in my mailbox about two weeks after I call in a refill. The bottle is in its original packaging with the manufacturers label clearly visible on one side and the pharmacys label on the other. Again, doing your search on all the details and setting up an account is well worth your time.

Mary Johnson

Colorado Springs

The saw cuts both ways

Speaking as a proud Libertarian, its about time duh gubment finally stopped sanctioning racism. Hopefully, this is only the first step.

It wasnt until I came to Pueblo that I experienced firsthand the blatant, hypocritical, and self-serving racism of the progressives/liberals/deceitocrats.

To this day, Im sure the individual perceives themselves as completely justified in their racist pronouncement. Gordon, you dont understand, youre a White male.

California was just a little more subtle, but the only thing being a White male ever got me was passed over for promotion. After well over 100 fruitless interviews, I received multiple phone calls, on condition of confidentiality, that I was their first choice, but they were forced to make an affirmative action hire. You can sugarcoat and semantics dance around it all day long, but vengeance and retribution are still the same, it just looks a little different.

And sure enough, theyve got politically correct, and MSM approved, euphemisms and labels, like the ever popular White privilege, to rationalize, condone, excuse, encourage, and demonstrate their character, integrity, and values under the guise of furthering an allegedly altruistic goal.

My mother told me that two wrongs do not make a right.

The saw cuts both ways folks, and I grew up poor too, and we ate welfare spam and ketchup spaghetti too, and worked in the tomato fields too, just like everybody else.

Make no mistake about it, this is what the fairness and equality that the progressives/liberals/deceitocrats eagerly espouses really looks like!

Gordon Carleton

Pueblo West
Jones Soda Co. (OTCMKTS:JSDA  Free Report) was the recipient of a large decrease in short interest in the month of June. As of June 15th, there was short interest totalling 8,200 shares, a decrease of 45.7% from the May 31st total of 15,100 shares. Based on an average daily volume of 54,500 shares, the short-interest ratio is presently 0.2 days.

Jones Soda Price Performance

Jones Soda stock traded up $0.01 during trading hours on Friday, reaching $0.23. The stock had a trading volume of 144,444 shares, compared to its average volume of 51,607. The company has a market cap of $22.89 million, a price-to-earnings ratio of -3.25 and a beta of 1.25. The businesss 50 day moving average price is $0.21 and its 200-day moving average price is $0.24. Jones Soda has a 52 week low of $0.18 and a 52 week high of $0.48.

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Jones Soda (OTCMKTS:JSDA  Free Report) last issued its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, May 4th. The company reported ($0.01) earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter. Jones Soda had a negative return on equity of 49.19% and a negative net margin of 33.11%. The business had revenue of $3.87 million for the quarter.

Institutional Inflows and Outflows

Jones Soda Company Profile

A hedge fund recently raised its stake in Jones Soda stock. Private Capital Advisors Inc. increased its holdings in Jones Soda Co. ( OTCMKTS:JSDA Free Report ) by 84.3% during the 4th quarter, according to the company in its most recent 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The firm owned 153,000 shares of the companys stock after buying an additional 70,000 shares during the quarter. Private Capital Advisors Inc. owned about 0.16% of Jones Soda worth $41,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period. 0.20% of the stock is owned by institutional investors.

(Free Report)

Jones Soda Co, together with its subsidiaries, engages in development, production, marketing, and distribution of beverages primarily in the United States, Canada, and internationally. The company provides craft sodas under the Jones Soda and Lemoncocco brands; and cannabis products under the Mary Jones brand.

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The Sage Group (OTCMKTS:SGGEF  Free Report) is one of 288 publicly-traded companies in the SoftwareApplication industry, but how does it weigh in compared to its peers? We will compare The Sage Group to similar businesses based on the strength of its analyst recommendations, earnings, valuation, dividends, risk, institutional ownership and profitability.

Analyst Ratings

This is a summary of recent recommendations and price targets for The Sage Group and its peers, as reported by MarketBeat.

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Sell Ratings Hold Ratings Buy Ratings Strong Buy Ratings Rating Score The Sage Group 0 0 0 0 N/A The Sage Group Competitors 406 1565 3296 18 2.55

As a group, SoftwareApplication companies have a potential upside of 29.27%. Given The Sage Groups peers higher probable upside, analysts clearly believe The Sage Group has less favorable growth aspects than its peers.

Valuation and Earnings

Gross Revenue Net Income Price/Earnings Ratio The Sage Group N/A N/A 63.67 The Sage Group Competitors $423.37 million -$10.94 million 598.74

This table compares The Sage Group and its peers gross revenue, earnings per share (EPS) and valuation.

The Sage Groups peers have higher revenue, but lower earnings than The Sage Group. The Sage Group 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.

Insider and Institutional Ownership

54.7% of The Sage Group shares are owned by institutional investors. Comparatively, 32.3% of shares of all SoftwareApplication companies are owned by institutional investors. 30.2% of shares of all SoftwareApplication companies are owned by insiders. Strong institutional ownership is an indication that hedge funds, endowments and large money managers believe a stock will outperform the market over the long term.

Dividends

The Sage Group pays an annual dividend of $0.12 per share and has a dividend yield of 1.1%. The Sage Group pays out 67.8% of its earnings in the form of a dividend. As a group, SoftwareApplication companies pay a dividend yield of 1.8% and pay out 70.8% of their earnings in the form of a dividend.

Profitability

This table compares The Sage Group and its peers net margins, return on equity and return on assets.

Net Margins Return on Equity Return on Assets The Sage Group N/A N/A N/A The Sage Group Competitors -40.43% -252.99% -8.66%

The Sage Group Company Profile

(Free Report)

The Sage Group plc, together with its subsidiaries, provides technology solutions and services for small and medium businesses in North America, Northern Europe, and internationally. It offers cloud native solutions, such as Sage Intacct, a cloud accounting software products and financial management software; Sage People, a HR and people management solution; Sage 200, a finance and business management solution; Sage X3, a business management solution; Sage Accounting, a solution for small businesses, accountants, and bookkeepers to manage customer data, accounts, and people; Sage Payroll for small businesses manage their payroll; and Sage HR for small and mid-sized businesses for record management, leave management, staff scheduling, and expenses services. The company also provides Sage 50cloud and Sage 200cloud that provides a range of cloud connected accounting solutions. The company was founded in 1981 and is based in Newcastle upon Tyne, the United Kingdom.

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Eurocash (OTCMKTS:EUSHY  Free Report) is one of 62 public companies in the Grocery Stores industry, but how does it contrast to its rivals? We will compare Eurocash to related businesses based on the strength of its analyst recommendations, profitability, valuation, earnings, dividends, risk and institutional ownership.

Institutional & Insider Ownership

0.2% of Eurocash shares are held by institutional investors. Comparatively, 45.3% of shares of all Grocery Stores companies are held by institutional investors. 22.8% of shares of all Grocery Stores companies are held by insiders. Strong institutional ownership is an indication that hedge funds, large money managers and endowments believe a company will outperform the market over the long term.

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Analyst Recommendations

This is a summary of recent ratings and target prices for Eurocash and its rivals, as reported by MarketBeat.com.

Sell Ratings Hold Ratings Buy Ratings Strong Buy Ratings Rating Score Eurocash 1 0 0 0 1.00 Eurocash Competitors 1121 2752 3007 114 2.30

Profitability

As a group, Grocery Stores companies have a potential upside of 100.25%. Given Eurocashs rivals stronger consensus rating and higher probable upside, analysts clearly believe Eurocash has less favorable growth aspects than its rivals.

This table compares Eurocash and its rivals net margins, return on equity and return on assets.

Net Margins Return on Equity Return on Assets Eurocash N/A N/A N/A Eurocash Competitors 2.07% 14.53% 4.72%

Dividends

Eurocash pays an annual dividend of $0.58 per share and has a dividend yield of 14.3%. Eurocash pays out 43.9% of its earnings in the form of a dividend. As a group, Grocery Stores companies pay a dividend yield of 4.1% and pay out 62.3% of their earnings in the form of a dividend. Eurocash is clearly a better dividend stock than its rivals, given its higher yield and lower payout ratio.

Valuation and Earnings

This table compares Eurocash and its rivals gross revenue, earnings per share (EPS) and valuation.

Gross Revenue Net Income Price/Earnings Ratio Eurocash N/A N/A 3.07 Eurocash Competitors $26.96 billion $611.52 million 192.81

Eurocashs rivals have higher revenue and earnings than Eurocash. Eurocash is trading at a lower price-to-earnings ratio than its rivals, indicating that it is currently more affordable than other companies in its industry.

Summary

Eurocash rivals beat Eurocash on 11 of the 13 factors compared.

Eurocash Company Profile

(Free Report)

Eurocash S.A. engages in the wholesale distribution of food and other fast moving consumer goods (FMCG) in Poland. The company operates through Wholesale, Retail, and Projects segments. Its FMCG products include food products, soft drinks, alcoholic beverages, tobacco products, and household chemicals and cosmetics. The company markets its products to traditional retail stores, including small supermarkets, grocery stores, and specialized grocery stores; and kiosks, retail outlets, and convenience stores, restaurants, gas stations, hotel and cafe chains, and catering outlets. It operates a network of Cash & Carry warehouses; Delikatesy Centrum network supermarkets; Inmedio; and franchise and partner stores of Eurocash distribution. Eurocash S.A. was incorporated in 2014 and is based in Komorniki, Poland.

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CPA Asset Management LLC cut its position in iShares MSCI USA Momentum Factor ETF (BATS:MTUM  Free Report) by 88.3% during the 1st quarter, according to the company in its most recent disclosure with the SEC. The firm owned 2,964 shares of the companys stock after selling 22,475 shares during the period. CPA Asset Management LLCs holdings in iShares MSCI USA Momentum Factor ETF were worth $412,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

Several other hedge funds also recently bought and sold shares of MTUM. Captrust Financial Advisors grew its position in shares of iShares MSCI USA Momentum Factor ETF by 1,777.3% in the 4th quarter. Captrust Financial Advisors now owns 1,744,129 shares of the companys stock valued at $254,521,000 after acquiring an additional 1,651,221 shares during the period. JPMorgan Chase & Co. boosted its holdings in shares of iShares MSCI USA Momentum Factor ETF by 4,447.7% during the 4th quarter. JPMorgan Chase & Co. now owns 661,558 shares of the companys stock worth $96,542,000 after buying an additional 647,011 shares during the period. M&T Bank Corp boosted its holdings in shares of iShares MSCI USA Momentum Factor ETF by 353.8% during the 4th quarter. M&T Bank Corp now owns 590,180 shares of the companys stock worth $59,945,000 after buying an additional 460,113 shares during the period. Janney Montgomery Scott LLC boosted its holdings in shares of iShares MSCI USA Momentum Factor ETF by 93.9% during the 4th quarter. Janney Montgomery Scott LLC now owns 507,593 shares of the companys stock worth $74,073,000 after buying an additional 245,795 shares during the period. Finally, Raymond James & Associates boosted its holdings in shares of iShares MSCI USA Momentum Factor ETF by 4.6% during the 1st quarter. Raymond James & Associates now owns 2,830,473 shares of the companys stock worth $393,549,000 after buying an additional 125,724 shares during the period.

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iShares MSCI USA Momentum Factor ETF Stock Performance

Shares of MTUM stock opened at $144.25 on Friday. The company has a market capitalization of $9.87 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 19.35 and a beta of 0.91. The company has a 50-day simple moving average of $139.95 and a 200 day simple moving average of $141.45. iShares MSCI USA Momentum Factor ETF has a 52 week low of $81.37 and a 52 week high of $113.60.

About iShares MSCI USA Momentum Factor ETF

The iShares MSCI USA Momentum Factor ETF (MTUM) is an exchange-traded fund that is based on the MSCI USA Momentum SR Variant index. The fund tracks an index of large- and mid-cap US equities, selected and weighted based on price appreciation over 6- and 12-month periods and low volatility over the past 3 years.

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Great Portland Estates Plc (OTCMKTS:GPEAF  Free Report) was the target of a significant growth in short interest in June. As of June 15th, there was short interest totalling 864,300 shares, a growth of 125.7% from the May 31st total of 382,900 shares. Based on an average daily trading volume, of 100 shares, the days-to-cover ratio is presently 8,643.0 days.

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

GPEAF has been the subject of several recent research reports. Peel Hunt upgraded Great Portland Estates to a buy rating in a report on Tuesday, June 20th. The Goldman Sachs Group downgraded Great Portland Estates from a neutral rating to a sell rating in a research note on Monday, June 12th. Finally, JPMorgan Chase & Co. upped their price objective on Great Portland Estates from GBX 600 ($7.63) to GBX 625 ($7.95) in a research note on Thursday, June 8th. Three analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating and two have given a buy rating to the company. According to MarketBeat.com, Great Portland Estates has a consensus rating of Hold and a consensus target price of $572.50.

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Great Portland Estates Stock Performance

GPEAF remained flat at $5.95 during trading on Friday. The firm has a 50 day moving average price of $5.76 and a 200 day moving average price of $6.15. Great Portland Estates has a 12-month low of $4.42 and a 12-month high of $8.00.

Great Portland Estates Company Profile

We are a FTSE 250 property investment and development company owning 2.5 billion of real estate in central London. We proactively manage our portfolio, flexing our activities in tune with London's property cycle to deliver long-term out-performance. We create in-demand spaces that people want to be part of; helping our occupiers, local communities and the city to thrive.

Further Reading

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WPP (NYSE:WPP  Free Report) is one of 77 publicly-traded companies in the Advertising agencies industry, but how does it weigh in compared to its rivals? We will compare WPP to related companies based on the strength of its earnings, dividends, analyst recommendations, valuation, institutional ownership, risk and profitability.

Dividends

WPP pays an annual dividend of $3.12 per share and has a dividend yield of 6.0%. As a group, Advertising agencies companies pay a dividend yield of 2.4% and pay out 898.4% of their earnings in the form of a dividend. WPP has increased its dividend for 1 consecutive years.

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Earnings & Valuation

This table compares WPP and its rivals revenue, earnings per share and valuation.

Gross Revenue Net Income Price/Earnings Ratio WPP $14.43 billion $844.43 million N/A WPP Competitors $1.90 billion $100.34 million 2,185.58

Profitability

WPP has higher revenue and earnings than its rivals.

This table compares WPP and its rivals net margins, return on equity and return on assets.

Net Margins Return on Equity Return on Assets WPP N/A N/A N/A WPP Competitors -8.41% -9.00% 0.20%

Analyst Ratings

This is a summary of current ratings and target prices for WPP and its rivals, as reported by MarketBeat.

Sell Ratings Hold Ratings Buy Ratings Strong Buy Ratings Rating Score WPP 0 1 5 0 2.83 WPP Competitors 200 1516 2458 35 2.55

WPP presently has a consensus price target of $1,001.29, indicating a potential upside of 1,815.24%. As a group, Advertising agencies companies have a potential upside of 118.79%. Given WPPs stronger consensus rating and higher probable upside, research analysts plainly believe WPP is more favorable than its rivals.

Risk & Volatility

WPP has a beta of 1.36, suggesting that its share price is 36% more volatile than the S&P 500. Comparatively, WPPs rivals have a beta of 1.19, suggesting that their average share price is 19% more volatile than the S&P 500.

Insider & Institutional Ownership

4.1% of WPP shares are held by institutional investors. Comparatively, 47.7% of shares of all Advertising agencies companies are held by institutional investors. 1.0% of WPP shares are held by company insiders. Comparatively, 22.8% of shares of all Advertising agencies companies are held by company insiders. Strong institutional ownership is an indication that large money managers, hedge funds and endowments believe a company will outperform the market over the long term.

Summary

WPP beats its rivals on 10 of the 14 factors compared.

About WPP

(Free Report)

WPP plc, a creative transformation company, provides communications, experience, commerce, and technology services in North America, the United Kingdom, Western Continental Europe, the Asia Pacific, Latin America, Africa, the Middle East, and Central and Eastern Europe. The company operates through three segments: Global Integrated Agencies, Public Relations, and Specialist Agencies. It offers advertising, marketing, brand strategies, and campaigns across all media; and provides media planning and buying services. It also provides media investment; data and technology, and content services. The company also offers public relations and specialist agency services. WPP plc was founded in 1985 and is based in London, the United Kingdom.

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Institute for Wealth Management LLC. cut its stake in Vanguard FTSE Emerging Markets ETF (NYSEARCA:VWO  Free Report) by 8.4% during the first quarter, according to its most recent 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The institutional investor owned 25,586 shares of the exchange traded funds stock after selling 2,345 shares during the quarter. Institute for Wealth Management LLC.s holdings in Vanguard FTSE Emerging Markets ETF were worth $1,034,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

A number of other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also recently bought and sold shares of VWO. Sound Income Strategies LLC lifted its stake in Vanguard FTSE Emerging Markets ETF by 311.0% in the 4th quarter. Sound Income Strategies LLC now owns 637 shares of the exchange traded funds stock valued at $25,000 after buying an additional 482 shares in the last quarter. Endurance Wealth Management Inc. lifted its stake in Vanguard FTSE Emerging Markets ETF by 303.2% in the 4th quarter. Endurance Wealth Management Inc. now owns 633 shares of the exchange traded funds stock valued at $25,000 after buying an additional 476 shares in the last quarter. Retirement Group LLC purchased a new position in Vanguard FTSE Emerging Markets ETF in the 4th quarter valued at about $26,000. Dakota Community Bank & Trust NA lifted its stake in Vanguard FTSE Emerging Markets ETF by 110.1% in the 4th quarter. Dakota Community Bank & Trust NA now owns 689 shares of the exchange traded funds stock valued at $27,000 after buying an additional 361 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Boyd Watterson Asset Management LLC OH purchased a new position in Vanguard FTSE Emerging Markets ETF in the 4th quarter valued at about $27,000.

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Vanguard FTSE Emerging Markets ETF Trading Up 0.9 %

Shares of Vanguard FTSE Emerging Markets ETF stock opened at $40.68 on Friday. The firm has a market capitalization of $72.41 billion, a PE ratio of 10.00 and a beta of 0.69. Vanguard FTSE Emerging Markets ETF has a twelve month low of $34.88 and a twelve month high of $43.22. The firms 50-day moving average price is $40.28 and its 200 day moving average price is $40.42.

About Vanguard FTSE Emerging Markets ETF

The Fund seeks to track the performance of the FTSE Emerging Markets All Cap China A Inclusion Index, that measures the return of stocks issued by companies located in emerging market countries.

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Nuveen AMT-Free Municipal Value Fund (NYSE:NUW  Free Report) saw a significant decline in short interest during the month of June. As of June 15th, there was short interest totalling 3,400 shares, a decline of 50.7% from the May 31st total of 6,900 shares. Based on an average trading volume of 31,500 shares, the short-interest ratio is presently 0.1 days.

Nuveen AMT-Free Municipal Value Fund Stock Performance

Shares of NYSE:NUW traded up $0.07 during trading on Friday, reaching $13.73. The stock had a trading volume of 36,828 shares, compared to its average volume of 31,342. Nuveen AMT-Free Municipal Value Fund has a 52 week low of $12.87 and a 52 week high of $15.05. The businesss 50-day moving average price is $13.75 and its 200 day moving average price is $13.84.

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Nuveen AMT-Free Municipal Value Fund Cuts Dividend

The business also recently disclosed a monthly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, July 3rd. Investors of record on Thursday, June 15th will be given a $0.0405 dividend. This represents a $0.49 annualized dividend and a yield of 3.54%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Wednesday, June 14th.

Institutional Inflows and Outflows

Nuveen AMT-Free Municipal Value Fund Company Profile

Several institutional investors have recently bought and sold shares of the stock. Bank of America Corp DE raised its position in Nuveen AMT-Free Municipal Value Fund by 79.5% in the 1st quarter. Bank of America Corp DE now owns 155,997 shares of the companys stock worth $2,148,000 after purchasing an additional 69,102 shares during the last quarter. UBS Group AG raised its position in Nuveen AMT-Free Municipal Value Fund by 108.3% in the 1st quarter. UBS Group AG now owns 112,260 shares of the companys stock worth $1,546,000 after purchasing an additional 58,361 shares during the last quarter. HighTower Advisors LLC raised its position in Nuveen AMT-Free Municipal Value Fund by 22.7% in the 1st quarter. HighTower Advisors LLC now owns 34,377 shares of the companys stock worth $474,000 after purchasing an additional 6,370 shares during the last quarter. Guggenheim Capital LLC raised its position in Nuveen AMT-Free Municipal Value Fund by 64.5% in the 1st quarter. Guggenheim Capital LLC now owns 254,139 shares of the companys stock worth $3,499,000 after purchasing an additional 99,636 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Empirical Financial Services LLC d.b.a. Empirical Wealth Management bought a new position in Nuveen AMT-Free Municipal Value Fund in the 1st quarter worth approximately $176,000.

(Free Report)

Nuveen AMT-Free Municipal Value Fund is a close-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 fixed income markets of the United States. The fund makes its investments in the securities of companies operating across diversified sectors.

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Citigroup (NYSE:C  Free Report) had its target price trimmed by Wells Fargo & Company from $65.00 to $60.00 in a report published on Wednesday, The Fly reports.

C has been the topic of several other research reports. BMO Capital Markets raised their price target on shares of Citigroup from $56.00 to $68.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a report on Monday, April 17th. Piper Sandler lifted their target price on shares of Citigroup from $47.00 to $53.00 and gave the company a neutral rating in a report on Monday, April 17th. Keefe, Bruyette & Woods decreased their price target on shares of Citigroup from $50.00 to $48.00 in a research report on Thursday, May 25th. Evercore ISI cut their price objective on Citigroup from $53.00 to $50.00 in a research report on Friday, May 12th. Finally, Bank of America upped their target price on Citigroup from $58.00 to $60.00 in a research report on Monday, June 5th. One analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, ten have given a hold rating and seven have assigned a buy rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat, the stock presently has an average rating of Hold and an average target price of $54.50.

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Citigroup Stock Performance

NYSE:C opened at $46.04 on Wednesday. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.48, a current ratio of 0.95 and a quick ratio of 0.95. The firm has a market cap of $89.63 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 6.42, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 1.77 and a beta of 1.57. The firms fifty day moving average price is $46.52 and its 200 day moving average price is $47.63. Citigroup has a 1-year low of $40.01 and a 1-year high of $54.56.

Citigroup Announces Dividend

Citigroup ( NYSE:C Free Report ) last announced its quarterly earnings data on Friday, April 14th. The company reported $2.19 EPS for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $1.66 by $0.53. Citigroup had a net margin of 12.96% and a return on equity of 7.84%. The firm had revenue of $21.40 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $20.07 billion. During the same quarter last year, the firm earned $2.02 earnings per share. The firms revenue was up 11.5% compared to the same quarter last year. On average, sell-side analysts expect that Citigroup will post 5.9 EPS for the current year.

The firm also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, May 26th. Stockholders of record on Monday, May 1st were issued a dividend of $0.51 per share. The ex-dividend date was Friday, April 28th. This represents a $2.04 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 4.43%. Citigroups dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 28.45%.

Insider Activity at Citigroup

In related news, insider Zdenek Turek sold 12,000 shares of Citigroup stock in a transaction dated Tuesday, April 18th. The shares were sold at an average price of $49.87, for a total transaction of $598,440.00. Following the sale, the insider now directly owns 155,979 shares in the company, valued at $7,778,672.73. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which is available through the SEC website. 0.09% of the stock is owned by insiders.

Institutional Trading of Citigroup

A number of large investors have recently added to or reduced their stakes in C. Vanguard Group Inc. raised its holdings in shares of Citigroup by 0.8% during the 3rd quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 165,678,243 shares of the companys stock valued at $6,903,812,000 after purchasing an additional 1,316,516 shares in the last quarter. Snider Financial Group grew its position in Citigroup by 96,645.9% during the first quarter. Snider Financial Group now owns 84,494,926 shares of the companys stock worth $4,512,000 after buying an additional 84,407,589 shares in the last quarter. Geode Capital Management LLC grew its position in Citigroup by 1.5% during the first quarter. Geode Capital Management LLC now owns 35,179,006 shares of the companys stock worth $1,646,775,000 after buying an additional 519,202 shares in the last quarter. Morgan Stanley raised its holdings in Citigroup by 2.6% in the 4th quarter. Morgan Stanley now owns 25,852,678 shares of the companys stock valued at $1,169,317,000 after acquiring an additional 666,560 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Fisher Asset Management LLC lifted its position in shares of Citigroup by 216,016.2% in the 1st quarter. Fisher Asset Management LLC now owns 21,888,245 shares of the companys stock worth $1,026,340,000 after acquiring an additional 21,878,117 shares during the period. 69.39% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors.

About Citigroup

(Free Report)

Citigroup Inc, a diversified financial services holding company, provides various financial products and services to consumers, corporations, governments, and institutions in North America, Latin America, Asia, Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. It operates through three segments: Institutional Clients Group (ICG), Personal Banking and Wealth Management (PBWM), and Legacy Franchises.

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The New York Times pulled together a fascinating collection of essays in anticipation of our countrys 247th birthday. For America is  the paper asked 17 different columnists to pick the one piece of culture that best explains America. They came back with a wide range of answers, from the 1956 horror movie Invasion of the Body Snatchers to a 1979 rap song by the Sugarhill Gang.

The trouble for me, nearly all of the choices and essays expressed a dark, negative or critical vision of the country in which we live.

Weve been through a rough patch lately, yes, but Im seeing something very different in our country right now.

Im seeing the beginning of an American renaissance.

The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted American lives in a million ways, but it also cleared the way for an economic and social revival. A New Yorker essayist wrote recently that Like wars and depressions, a pandemic offers an X-ray of society, allowing us to see all the broken places. When people confront their failures, they have the opportunity to mend them.

It seems to me we gathered our forces during our COVID-induced confinement. Our brush with the worst of times and the chilling prospect of losing our democracy during the Jan. 6 takeover of the Capitol have fired up an American drive for reinvention and reconnection.

I see Americans reprioritizing whats best about our country right now, trying to pull themselves up by their bootstraps and improve their economics, politics and themselves in a hundred ways. I see people shifting the balance of their work lives and personal lives to better address common problems of community and meaning in their lives.

Take our economy right now.

America remains the worlds richest, most productive and most innovative big economy. By an impressive number of measures, it is leaving its peers ever further in the dust, according to a remarkable recent article in the Economist.

According to data from the U.S. Census Bureau, Americans started 5.4 million new businesses in 2021, which is the highest of any year on record and a 53% increase from 2019. We did it again in 2022, starting another 5 million new businesses.

Those new businesses are a good indicator of American dynamism. Starting a business is easy in America, as is restructuring it through bankruptcy, the Economist noted.

Census statistics also show a wider range of Americans starting new businesses now: In 2021, 49% of new business owners were women, up from 29% before the pandemic. The share of Black entrepreneurs has increased from 3% in 2019 to 9% in 2021.

Looking long term on this July Fourth weekend, Americas overperforming economy means Americans wealth is growing more than the wealth of people in other countries, too. Income was 24% higher than in Western Europe in 1990 according to purchasing power parity (PPP) data cited by the Economist. Today, it is 30% higher. It was 17% higher than Japan in 1990; today, it is 54% higher. Residents in Mississippi have higher average incomes than those in France.

Investment in America trumps all other nations as well right now: About half of the worlds venture capital goes to firms in America.

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And though our grade schools and high schools need drastic improvement, the U.S. still boasts 11 of the worlds 15 top-ranked universities, which serve as important pathways for the worlds smartest young people to come here and contribute.

If you look at the big picture on climate change, there's even good news to be found there. Americas industrial carbon-dioxide emissions are 18% below their mid-2000s peak, the Economist also noted. Huge American investments in solar power and wind power and electric cars should only accelerate that trend.

That doesnt mean were without problems, of course. Too many of our young people are dying from an epidemic of addiction and rising gun violence, which together have actually reduced our average life expectancy in this country below other rich countries. And we are suffering a mental health crisis in this country.

The Economist also pointed out that the middle class isnt doing as well in income rise as the poorest and the richest among us. And for some reason, the percentage of prime-age American men who are not working is climbing and is higher than in Britain, France and Germany.

What worries me more is self-sabotage by what Spiro Agnew once memorably identified as the "nattering nabobs of negativism."

Our economy is chugging along in spite of our politics, rather than thanks to them, I would argue. And our toxic politics actually threaten this renaissance.

Highly polarized state governments are starting to endanger the countrys vast unified market, forcing companies to face new choices, the Economist points out. Texas, for instance, has banned financial firms from doing business with the state if it deems them unfriendly to the oil industry.  California is attacking from the opposite end, with a new law that could force oil firms to cap their profits.

And the more politicians think they need to dramatically overhaul our roaring economy, the more likely they are to mess it up. Immigration, for example, has always been one of Americas great strengths when it comes to replenishing its workforce and renewing its yearning spirit, but the politics of immigration right now have turned toxic, threatening to overcorrect and strangle that dynamism.

At the moment, the most remarkable thing about America is that our problems have not noticeably slowed down our growth.

The diagnoses are that China is getting ahead, or that immigrants are a menace, that large corporations are bastions of woke power and free trade a form of treachery, notes the Economist. Their folly is all the more striking because it betrays a lack of appreciation for the bigger economic picture, and just how good America has it.

Another piece of journalism I saw recently that made me think the time is ripe for a true American renaissance compared our emergence from this pandemic with Florences in the 1400s. Thats when Florence became the driving force of the Renaissance of all renaissances, thanks to a impassioned embrace of economic mobility, literacy and widespread participation in the city's civic life after the ravages of the Black Death.

What really enabled the Renaissance was a deep dive into humane learning, historian Jacob Soll observed in Politico. People from all walks of life read about the ancient past, studying books in the hope of recreating Ciceros ideal of a civic regeneration through education."

The key to a new renaissance is making sure the opportunities created by this disruption are spread more widely than ever among rich, middle and poor; Black, White and Brown.

America has done this right (or, at least, partially right) before: After the disruption of World War II, the GI bill allowed young men to study the arts and sciences so they could dream, and achieve, things their parents hadnt been able to, Soll continued. It didnt solve all of Americas inequities; the beneficiaries were mostly White, and Black GIs benefited far less. But we can learn something from the impulse behind it. It was by mixing the humanities writ large with practical, artisanal skills  and a society ready to use them  that Florence produced Donatello and da Vinci. Ours, too, are out there, of all races and creeds. All they need is a chance.
A Wodaado, a Ghanaian, is currently making headlines after he astounded the public with his gimmick leading to his travel success to the United Kingdom.

Wodaado is a fresh university graduate of Education from one University in Ghana. He resorted to leaving the country to pursue his career abroad. The information about his adventure was covered In a video by SVTV Africa on YouTube.

Wodaado narrated that after his university program, he developed an overpowering desire to leave the country. He further disclosed that he felt impulsive to steal the family's land property to run his Visa. He eventually did that though.

"After I realized that an opportunity had come for me to travel to the UK, I told my mother to give me the land document for safekeeping. I immediately sold the land for 90,000 (N5,975,999.96) and used that money to process my visa.

Speaking further, Wodaado revealed that his father was pleased after he discovered that he had stolen and sold the family's land property. His mother on the other hand was mad at him. She resented him for selling the land.

In the long run, his mother who was initially outrageous became calm owing to the promise to buy another land by wodaado.

"My dad was happy about it, but my mother was very angry. After some time, she forgave me with the condition that I buy a land for the family when I make money"
The 9th national assembly is the worst in the history of Nigerias democracy. It achieved nothing relative to its fundamental responsibilities. It was an appendage to the presidency, having surrendered its independence and authority. Nigerias socioeconomic woes were compounded by the failure of the Ahmad Lawan-led 9th national assembly to checkmate the executive excesses. In particular, the huge debt which has sadly placed the country in a sorry state is a result of its ineffectiveness. Corruption, insecurity and poverty grew to a suffocating magnitude under its nose because it aided executive rascality. May Nigeria never again witness such a rubber stamp national assembly!

Every enlightened Nigerian today is familiar with these sweeping statements and their likes. They have become so ritualized that lately, they dominate every democratic governance discourse. Even right now, they still reverberate.

But, how did we get here?

Metaphorically, a rubber stamp legislature simply means an ineffective legislature. The term gained prominence in our political lexicon during the last dispensation when it was largely used to define the 9th national assembly as referenced above. This toga literally overshadowed every positive impact that was made by the then-federal legislature.

But in the real sense, is there anything like a rubber stamp parliament? And if yes, does it exist only in Nigeria?

Citing research findings, the features of a rubber stamp legislature include: giving official approval to something without really thinking about it, agreeing to a decision, plan, or law.without thinking about it much; granting approval to the actions or decisions of others without considering them; approving an idea, project, law, etc. without examining it carefully first as well as not disagreeing with particularly the executive. So by inference, a rubber stamp parliament is inherently lacking in a sense of scrutiny and strength of willpower. It does not embody the wishes of the people. It is a threat to democracy and also constitutes an avenue for wastage of public resources.

Further scratching below the surface, a rubber stamp legislature is mostly powerless yet officially recognized and endowed with considerable de jure power but little de facto power for which it rarely or never disagrees with more powerful organs. Elsewhere, it is called a toy parliament. These are additional proof that a rubber stamp legislature generally is lacking in influence.

For instance the British parliament is a relatively non-influential, and perhaps even peripheral, institution with respect to policy. The House of Commons, in particular, is widely criticised, being described in the media as 'a legislature on its knees' or 'an elaborate rubber-stamp'. In China also, because legislation is decided by party leaders prior to the session, the countrys top legislature, the National Peoples Congress, NPC, is being derisively described as a rubber-stamp parliament.

Meanwhile, writing on African Parliaments: Do They Carry Any Real Political Weight?, Olivier Marbot lamented that parliaments on the African continent struggle to fulfil their legislative role, with the overbearing figure of the head of state  seen as alone embodying public authority  often taking centre stage and relegating the legislature to the background as a mere rubber-stamp..In many African countries, whether their institutions are modelled along British or French lines, political life often, if not exclusively, revolves around the head of state and his or her inner circle.

Then spotlighting Uganda, Prof John Barya hinted that whenever important decisions need to be taken, they are not debated logically within Parliament but rather first processed in the (ruling National Resistant Movement) NRM caucus where the majority is whipped into endorsing the caucus position even when they dont believe in it.

And of course, the Indian parliament is no different. A renowned political activist, Shashi Tharoor, regretted that "today..our government has successfully reduced the parliament to a notice board and a rubber stamp. It is a notice board for the government to announce whatever it wants to do and it is a rubber stamp because their crushing majority obediently passes every bill in exactly the form it comes from the cabinet". The list is inexhaustible.

So evidently again, this phenomenon is not peculiar to Nigeria. But in her own case, the legislature lost its authority, relevance and assertiveness sequel to a weak constitution. It was not deliberate, but a creation of the laws, albeit unintended.

Therefore, while the misgivings about a rubber stamp legislature are justified, they should be matched with the realization that Nigeria cannot have the kind of legislature that meets the expectations of the people until the 1999 constitution is completely replaced or at least comprehensively altered. The laws are largely as faulty as they are undemocratic, thereby making it impossible for the legislature to deliver except with a gracious president.

Otherwise, how can a legislature successfully checkmate the executive under a constitution that does not provide for definite consequences for breach or rascality?

To begin with, the constitution stipulates that certain categories of presidential nominees shall be screened and confirmed by the Senate, but is silent on the ultimate implications of appointing without legislative confirmation.

Also, the legislature is to scrutinize and approve every plan to borrow money for governance under any guise, but nothing is said about the repercussions of taking such loans without parliamentary consent or even how such breaches can be blocked in the first place. Similarly, the constitution does not envisage a scenario where the executive embarks on expenditure without official budgets.

Furthermore, the legislature, in discharging its oversight functions, is to summon any entity, both private and public, for questioning and also issue warrants of arrest against defaulters. But if for instance, the president or his agents acts in breach of this provision, who would execute the orders? Is it the police chief appointed by the same president that would order the arrest? Equally, what is the position of the constitution in a situation where the executive decides to starve the national assembly of operational funds given that the legislature has no access to the national treasury?

Again, what happens if the heads of the security agencies, who are directly answerable to the president, decide to withdraw their personnel from the services of the national assembly? And then importantly, if the parliament for any reason overrides the presidency, how will the objectives be achieved without the willingness of the executive?

These are some of the salient contradictions that cumulatively render the constitution weak resulting sadly in a powerless and ineffective legislature.

Hence, it is a disservice to public morality dismissing the legislature as a rubber stamp simply because it is not engaging in conflicts with the executive. A vibrant parliament is certainly not about friction and confrontations.

Especially in developing countries, a sensitive legislature limits itself to the sphere of influence available to it. Aware that there are no solid constitutional protections for effectiveness and efficiency, such parliament avoids grandstanding or unnecessary fights. Rather than unproductive struggles, it settles for collaboration in the overall interest of the citizenry because different arms of one government cannot engage in hostilities without impoverishing the masses that they are elected to protect. Once again, it takes a magnanimous Nigerian president for the legislature to operate optimally because, by the constitution, he is the most powerful the world over.

The 8th Senate did not confirm Ibrahim Magu but he served as the Chairman of the EFCC for five years. The same assembly made a resolution that the comptroller-general of the customs must wear official uniforms as the laws demand, yet for eight years he functioned on plain clothes.

The 9th Senate made three separate resolutions for the then-service chiefs to be dropped for under-performance, but former president Muhammadu Buhari ignored the directives and even extended their tenures when they were due for retirement. Then apparently out of mutual respect, Buhari did not appoint Lauretta Onochie as INEC commissioner upon rejection thrice by the senate, while the same parliament at a very odd plenary, ratified the funds that were expended months earlier by the presidency without legislative approval. Are these not further testimonies that the legislature is at the mercy of the presidency?

Consequently, the president of the 10th Senate, Godswill Akpabio, allowed reason, courage and foresight to take pre-eminence. He explicitly campaigned that the Senate under him would have a harmonious relationship with the executive to deliver sustainable good governance. His colleagues elected him on that premise thus implying that such disposition has become an adopted corporate strategy.

Upon assumption of office, he was quick to remind them that their choice reflects the collective will of the Senate and also that Nigeria today has in Bola Tinubu, a president who is committed to a strong economy, national security, inclusion and the rule of law.

Akpabio was emphatic that the antecedents of Mr President and his actions in office these past two weeks give not just a pointer but bear witness to an executive government that knows the challenges of the country and is in a hurry to resolve same adding that we should, therefore, anticipate an executive that is proactive, progressive and practical.

And on the senates obligations, he declared that our laws must, therefore, align with the vision of Mr. President to protect and provide for our people at the innermost core of their essence while our actions must also guarantee the best and most efficient use of our national commonwealth.

The senate president further stressed that we must, therefore, as a Senate, rise to partner with His Excellency the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, and provide the required legislative framework and legal environment for him to anchor the policies and programmes that he espouses for the country.

Then on what this senate represents, Godswill Akpabio concluded by charging his colleagues to see every reason to support good policies and programmes of the Federal Government, and I call on you to put this national interest first at all times. Our Senate, the 10th Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, will be a Senate for all Nigeria.

Empirically, Akpabio has placed his cards on the table. And he is dispassionate about it. The 10th Senate has to complement a president who is committed to a strong economy, national security, inclusion and the rule of law.

So if this strategic framework reflects a rubber stamp senate, then good governance is no longer about a strong economy, national security, inclusion and the rule of law.

Besides, it bears repeating that a rubber stamp legislature is inevitable in Nigeria, except one is living in self-denial. The executive arm, principally the presidency, can always "depart from the democratic spirit of the Constitution" or take "autocratic steps" and get away with them because there are no mechanisms to practically resist such tendencies or even bring perpetrators to book. Yes, the executive has enormous protections to act in manners that suggest that "our Constitution is too easily subverted in an undemocratic way" and also that the Parliament's ability to hold the government accountable is completely eroded.

Therefore, until we strengthen the constitution towards a deepened democracy, every enlightened Nigerian adult today is culpable in the making of a rubber stamp 10th senate. One does not need to be politically active to champion nation-building. Succinctly, it is the height of hypocrisy to subjectively judge the Akpabio-led Senate when you have no history of lending a voice through your elected representative for a strong constitution that guarantees equalization of powers among the arms of government; except also, you detest a strong economy, national security, inclusion and the rule of law.

Egbo is a parliamentary affairs analyst


350 deaths shockingly recorded in 18 days (June 12-30): 120 in Plateau, 100 (by military, ors) in Imo and 130 across Nigeria

security forces killed 1000 in Imo State in 30 months (Jan2021-June 2023), burned down 1,400 houses and arrested 3,700

Onitsha, Eastern Nigeria, Sunday, 2nd July 2023: The International Society for Civil Liberties and Rule of Law, Nigerias leading research and investigative human rights, rule of law and security and safety advocacy Organization since 2008 has comprehensively reviewed its special investigative reports on the genocidal situation of Christians in Nigeria and the Imo mass atrocities issued on April 10/June 12 and May 21, 2023. On the situation of Nigerian Christians, it is deeply disheartening and shocking to note that the genocidal footprints (State Jihadism Project) of the out-gone central Government of Retired Major General Muhammad Buhari (29thMay 2015-29th May 2023) have continued to hunt down Christians and non Muslim others including their ancestral lands, dwelling houses, places of worship and learning and other properties belonging to them. Our general review has shown that the grisly and State protected and conspiratorial Jihadist attacks have left 31,700 defenseless Christians dead between June 2015 and June 2023 and 53,750 hacked to death since the 2009 Boko Haram uprising. It was also found that no fewer than 18,200 churches, 1000 traditional religious sanctuaries and 800 Synagogues/related others and 2,200 Christian schools have been burned down or wantonly destroyed-with 1100 Christian communities uprooted, 50m Christians forced out of their ancestral homes and lands into displacement and homelessness. Hundreds of thousands of Christians have been forcefully converted to Islam while tens of thousands of non-menopausal Christian women have become victims of rape or sexual abuse or enslavement. Not less than 15m Christian IDPs/Refugees have been generated and forced into internal or regional/international border homelessness-with Benue State being the worst hit accounting for at least 2.5m Christian IDPs.

It is also shocking and alarming to note that in the last eighteen days of the out-gone June 2023 or June 12-30, at least 350 defenseless Christians and non Muslim others have been slaughtered by Jihadist Fulani Herdsmen and their allied Jihadist Fulani Bandits who originated from Zamfara State as Zamfara Bandits 2011-2013. In the latest butcheries under review, Jihadist Fulani Herdsmen and their allied Jihadist Fulani Bandits accounted for not less than 230 Christian deaths. Joining the list of anti Christian butchers are jihadist elements within the Nigerian military and police and their commanders in Eastern Nigeria. They accounted for 30% of the killings by killing not less than 100 unarmed and defenseless Judeo-Christian-traditionalist Easterners particularly in Imo State within the space of last forty days or 21stMay to 30th June 2023. Within the same last eighteen days of June 2023, Boko Haram and ISWAP had a fraction of the killer-entities responsibilities with at least 20 Christian deaths in Borno State particularly in Christian areas of the Southern Borno including Damboa and Chibok Local Government Areas.

590 Christians Killed In Benue In Jan-June, 502 In Plateau, 322 In Kaduna And 230 In Niger

It is also the finding of the International Society for Civil Liberties and Rule of Law that out of the no fewer than 2,500 defenseless Christians slaughtered or hacked to death in the last six months or 1st January to 30thJune 2023, Benue, Plateau, Kaduna and Niger States accounted for over 60% of the total killings; with Benue State recording the highest number of Christian deaths of 590, followed by Plateau with 502; Kaduna 322 and Niger State with 230 recorded in Christian parts of Paikoro, Shiroro, Munya, Rafi, etc. Regarding the killing of Christians in the last eighteen days of June 2023, Plateau State is the worst hit; accounting for no fewer than 120 Christian deaths. No fewer than 130 Christian deaths were recorded in other parts of the country including 30 Christian deaths in Niger, 20 in Benue, 20 in Borno, 20 in Kaduna, 10 in Ebonyi and Enugu, etc. It was earlier reported in our report of 12th June 2023 that not less than 2,150 defenseless Christians were hacked to death between 1st January and 12th June 2023 and over 1,400 abducted; out of which no fewer than 140 or 10% of the abductees are not capable of returning to their families alive; having been most likely killed in captivity. No fewer than 100 churches were attacked or burned down or wantonly destroyed within the period and at least 30 priests or pastors attacked. Found also were indiscriminate attacks and burning down or wanton destruction of not less than 1000 traditional religious sanctuaries and 800 Synagogues and related others since January 2021 by deployed jihadist elements within the Nigerian Military and Policing squads. The attacks were substantially perpetrated in Imo State and other parts of Eastern Nigeria in furtherance of the militarys atrocious operational codes of class criminalization, false labeling and ethno-religious profiling. Our review also showed that 150-200 defenseless Christians were abducted (in Kaduna, Benue, Plateau, Enugu, Ebonyi, Niger, Ogun, Kawara, Kogi, etc) in the last eighteen days of June 2023 or from 12thto 30th of June 2023.

How 120 Christians Were Slaughtered In Eighteen Days In Mangu And Riyom-Plateau State

Not less than 77 defenseless Christians were hacked to death by Jihadist Fulani herdsmen and their allied Jihadist Fulani Bandits across Plateau State between 12th and 20th of June 2023 and more than 43 others sent to their early graves between 20th and 30th of June 2023. In all, not less than 120 Christians were hacked to death in the last eighteen days of June 2023; covering 12th to 30thJune 2023. Most of the butcheries had taken place in Mangu, Barkin Ladi and Riyom Counties or Local Government Areas of the State. The statistics above were obtained from various credible media sources and eyewitness accounts. According to the reports of the Truth-Nigeria; a credible anti religious persecution media, dated 12th June 2023, quoting a lettered eyewitness who spoke in a video clip, not less than 20 Christians were killed after Sunday Services of 11th June 2023 in Riyom County. The mass killings took place when Jihadist Fulani Herdsmen in their large numbers simultaneously attacked four Christian villages in Riyom County, killing at least 20 local Christians. The Jihadists also attacked churches and homes; forcing thousands of their dwellers to flee and scamper for safety into homelessness. In a related report by the online media, published 24th June 2023, 88 Christian deaths have been recorded in Plateau State between 12th and 24thof June 2023.

According to Punch Newspaper of 27th June 2023, not less than seven Christians were killed on 26th June 2023 by Jihadist Fulani Herdsmen in Kerang Community in Mangu Local Government Area of Plateau State. Other recorded killing of Christians by Fulani Jihadists in the State in the past eighteen days (June 12-30, 2023) are as follows: on June 16, fourteen Christians were killed in Brkin Ladi, on June 17, six were killed, on Sunday, June 18, six were killed including wife of a pastor and his two sons in Barkin Ladi, on June 19, eight were killed, on June 20, fifteen were killed in Mangu and on the same day, not less than 22 Christians including seven Christian civilian watchers were killed in Riyom. Also, according to the Truth-Nigeria, fresh alarms have been raised that Fulani Jihadists and their allied Fulani Jihadist Bandits from Zamfara State have concluded plans to attack and uproot 18 Christian villages of Riyom and Barkin Ladi Counties of Plateau State in coming days including: Gassa in Ropp District, Chit and Tapo in Heipang, Nding, Rawuru, Sagas, Sagasan and Nafan in Fan District; all in Barkin Ladi and Kwi, Wereng Mining Camp, Wereng, Kum and Byei, Jol, Tashek, Tanjol, Rim and Sara of Ganawuri; all in Riyom County or LGA.

1000 Civilians Killed In Imo In 30 Months (Jan 2021-June 2023) And 1,400 Houses Razed

The findings from comprehensive review of our Special Research and Investigative Report on Imo Mass Atrocities unveiled on 21st May 2023 have shown that not less than 100 unarmed civilians have been killed by military personnel and other rogue law enforcement agents between 7th June and 30th of June 2023, a period of 24 days and additional 230 civilian homes burned down or wantonly destroyed-with thousands rendered homeless and forced to flee. The two worst hit areas are communities in Izombe and neighboring others including Agwa Autonomous Community; all in Oguta Local Government Area as well as Amucha, Orlu, Njaba, Orsu and others under Orlu Zone of the State. While 80 of the slain 100 unarmed citizens were openly killed, 20 were killed in custody after having been abducted and disappeared. Not less than 200 unarmed citizens were arbitrarily arrested under false labeling and taken into custody where they are most likely being tortured or threatened with custodial death.



The Nigerian Military and Police authorities have also been detected trying to influence media reports by compromising a section of the media to change their atrocious conducts to attacks carried out by Unknown Gunmen or Members of the proscribed IPOB and its ESN terrorists. For instance, attempts have been made by the authorities of the deployed security forces to change the original media reports accusing the security forces of killing at least 50 civilians and burning down of 170 civilian houses in Izombe and environs between 7thJune and 19thJune 2023. This is to the extent that the falsified version of the story is presently trending in the Nigerian Weekly Security Tracker of June 2023. Attached in the Reference Page of this Review Report are the links to the original version of the report and renewed military crackdowns on communities of Amucha, Njaba, Orlu, etc which have led to indiscriminate abduction of the youths of the affected communities, shootings and killings and burning down or razing of ancestral homes.



Therefore, in the past 30 months or January 2021 to 30th June 2023 under Hope Uzodinma as Imo Governor, a total of 1000 civilians have been killed, 3,700 arbitrarily arrested and 320 disappeared without traces. Not less than 1,400 civilian houses have also been burned down or wantonly destroyed and their 72,000 occupants (average of 30 persons per dwelling ancestral house) forced into homelessness and displacement during which at least 600,000 members of the defenseless general population were forced to flee to avoid being class-criminalized, falsely profiled, abducted or arbitrarily arrested and detained without trial or killed and false-labeled. Seven of the eight armed non state actors operating in Imo State have killed at least 730 and abducted 940 others since then. Intersociety has severally investigated and found that victims of the Muslim-controlled security forces atrocities in Imo State are targeted on the grounds of their ethnicity, religion and identities.

Note: References to the reports above are provided in the links listed below the signature page and for detailed seminal account of the patterns and trends of Jihadist Fulani Herdsmens ongoing anti Christian butcheries across African Continent, please NO 12 of the enclosed links for research article by Nwankwo Nwaezeigwe, PhD

Signed

For: International Society for Civil Liberties and Rule of Law

Emeka Umeagbalasi (Criminologist-Researcher), Board Chair

Chinwe Umeche Esquire, Head, Democracy and Good Governance

Obianuju Joy Igboeli Esquire, Head, Civil Liberties and Rule of Law

Chidinma Udegbunam, Esquire, Head of Publicity

Ndidiamaka Catherine Bernard Esquire, Head, Intl Justice and Human Rights

Ositadinma Agu, Head, Intl Contacts and Mobilization



Contacts:

WhatsApp/Mobile: +2348174090052

Email: [email protected]

Website: https://intersociety-ng.org



References:

1. https://truthnigeria.com/2023/06/muslim-terrorists-slaughter-record-numbers-of-christians-in-central-nigeria/

2. https://truthnigeria.com/2023/06/massed-terrorists-spread-fire-and-murder-across-nigerias-plateau-state/

3. https://www.google.com/amp/s/punchng.com/gunmen-kill-five-in-plateau-community/%3famp

4. https://truthnigeria.com/2023/07/nigerian-bandits-vow-to-uproot-villages-in-riyom-and-barkin-ladi-counties-in-plateau-state/

5. https://truthnigeria.com/2023/06/breaking-20-christians-killed-after-sunday-services/

6. https://communityreporters.com.ng/2023/06/29/amucha-orlu-youths-flee-communities-as-security-agencies-continue-crackdown-on-villages/

7. https://intersociety-ng.org/farewell-gifts-to-buhari-ors-700-christians-slaughtered-in-may-1100-in-60-days-and-2150-in-160-days-of-2023/

8. https://intersociety-ng.org/5068-citizens-massacred-for-being-christians-in-nigeria-in-2022-1041-slaughtered-in-first-100-days-of-2023/

9. https://intersociety-ng.org/armed-state-actors-and-armed-non-state-actors-killed-1600-unarmed-citizens-in-29-months-in-imo-state/

10. https://intersociety-ng.org/gov-uzodinma-ex-igp-alkali-baba-ex-army-chief-faruk-yahaya-ex-cds-irabor-army-chief-lagbaja-27-others-dragged-to-icc-for-investigation-and-prosecution-over-imo-mass-killings-ors/

11. https://thesouthernexaminer.com/imo-community-deserted-as-security-agents-murder-raze-down-houses-p10126-268.htm

12. https://news.band/international-criminal-court-icc-the-ten-stages-of-genocide-why-sultan-of-sokoto-other-fulani-leaders-must-be-tried/
As hot weather approaches and forest vegetation continues to dry, Siuslaw National Forest officials are raising the fire danger designation from moderate to high.

There are currently no restrictions in place for campfires, but the public is urged to be extra vigilant on forested lands over the upcoming holiday weekend, according to Forest Service a news release.

The Oregon Coast Range is much drier than average for this time of year, and we dont see any precipitation in the forecast, Chris Donaldson, deputy fire staff officer for Northwest Oregon Interagency Fire Management, said in a statement.

Lots of folks will likely head outside over the holiday weekend. We ask that everyone is mindful to prevent human-caused fire starts and encourage others to do the same.

Local firefighters have detected several small fires already this year, both on and off Forest Service lands. Rapid responses by fire crews have kept acreage burned to a minimum, according to the news release.

Historically, the majority of fires on the Siuslaw National Forest are human-caused.

We want people to enjoy their time outdoors and at recreation sites as they celebrate Independence Day, but to remember that no fireworks are allowed on National Forest lands in Oregon, Siuslaw National Forest Supervisor Rebecca Brooke said in a statement.

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.

As fire restrictions change, information will be available on the Siuslaw National Forest website, www.fs.usda.gov/main/siuslaw/fire.
Failed Expo bid threatens to slow down Phuket tunnels, light rail

PHUKET: The construction of Patong Tunnel and implementation of other critical infrastructure projects in Phuket might occur later than desired by provincial authorities after Phuket has lost its bid to host Specialised Expo 2027/28, governor Narong Woonciew has admitted.

transporttourismSafetydeathconstruction

By The Phuket News

Sunday 2 July 2023 09:00 AM

Preechawude Keesin and Chalermpong Saengdee called for construction of Patong Tunnel to prevent accidents similar to the June 19 fatal collision Patong Hill. Photo: Chalermpong Saengdee / Move Forward Party

According to Governor Narong, Phukets bid for the expo was strong, showcasing the provinces potential. However, it was ultimately unsuccessful, which may result in a delay in the implementation of infrastructure projects that could have been expedited for completion by 2028, the scheduled year for the Expo.

"Since Phuket was not chosen for the expo, the execution of these infrastructure improvements may not happen as quickly as we had hoped," Governor Narong stated, as quoted by Bangkok Post

Bangkok Post explains that he [Governor Narong] noted that Phuket would have executed its planned projects, such as cross-province highways, a light rail system, tunnels and a water supply system, if the city had been chosen for the Specialised Expo 2028.

It is understood from the previous announcements by the Royal Thai Government and Phuket Provincial Government, that the critical infrastructure projects will be executed anyway, though not necessarily expedited to be finished by 2028.

Following the disappointing Expo decision, Government Spokesperson Anucha Burapachaisri reaffirmed Phukets commitment to long-term development plans, emphasizing sustainability, infrastructure enhancement, and economic stability.

Phuket Vice Governor Amnuay Pinsuwan also expressed the provinces continued dedication to projects associated with the expo, particularly the transformation of the planned venue in Mai Khao into an international health center, according to a report by the state news agency NNT.

Meanwhile, Rewat Areerob, President of the Phuket Provincial Administration Organisation (PPAO), disclosed that discussions would be held with 18 local partners to explore projects aimed at stimulating the economy and boosting tourism in the region, as reported by NNT.

The NNT did not report any deadlines for any of the projects. Only the dedication was confirmed.

Among the projects that could have been expedited for Expo 2028 are two new tunnels. The first is the long-awaited Patong Tunnel, which will connect Kathu to Patong, providing convenient and safe access to Phukets main tourist hub.

The tunnel, officially known as the Kathu  Patong Expressway, will serve as the final segment of the proposed Muang Mai  Koh Kaew  Kathu Expressway, which qualifies as a new "cross-province highway."

The second tunnel is the Heroines Underpass located under the Heroines Monument on Thepkrasattri Rd, aimed at alleviating traffic on the existing "cross-province highway" in Phuket, Theprkrasattri Rd.

On May 31, His Majesty Maha Vajiralongkorn (Rama X) signed a Royal Decree defining the land boundaries for the Kathu  Patong Expressway. However, the project has been stalled due to a lack of private investors interested in undertaking the task, despite the proposal including a 30-year concession to operate the future Patong  Kathu tollway.

In late March, the Expressway Authority of Thailand (EXAT) stated that it would consider combining the Patong Tunnel project with the main part of the Muang Mai  Koh Kaew  Kathu Expressway project after no bids were received from contractors to build the Patong Tunnel alone.

Phuket business and political figures reiterated their call for the construction of the Patong Tunnel following a tragic incident on June 19, when a 10-wheeled truck lost control while traveling from Kathu to Patong and collided with a pickup truck in front of Suwan Khiri Wong Temple (Wat Patong).

The accident resulted in the deaths of Prasat Prateep Na Thalang, a 64-year-old pickup driver, and his passenger, identified by the police as Mr. Kamet Chuayuan, aged 62. The truck driver, Piyarat Kaewprasit, 38, sustained a dislocated shoulder and was taken to Patong Hospital for treatment.

Prominent figures from Phukets business and political sectors, including Preechawude Prab Keesin, the head of the Pisona Group and founder of the Patong Development Foundation, and Chalermpong Saengdee, a member of the Move Forward Party who was officially confirmed as an MP from Phuket on the same day as the accident, have called on officials to commence the construction of the Patong Tunnel. Their primary concern was ensuring the safety of the people in the area.
Police seek cooperation from victims in serial rape case

BANGKOK: The Royal Thai Police have issued a public warning regarding a man who has been arrested on accusations of committing a series of rapes and robberies in Bangkok and Eastern Thailand. Investigators are urging victims of the man to come forward and contact the police so that he can be fully charged for all of the cases.

policecrimesex

By The Phuket News

Sunday 2 July 2023 03:50 PM

Police notice regarding "Tum Chonburi". Image: IDMB Bangkok

According to a notice shared through the IDMB Bangkok page on Facebook on Friday (June 30), the arrested suspect, identified as Wattana Srikaney (aka Tum Chonburi), was apprehended in Chonburi. The man is the primary focus of an ongoing police investigation into the series of rapes and robberies.

Mr Wattana is suspected of targeting victims through dating apps. The police believe that many individuals may have fallen victim to Mr Wattana, but not all cases have been reported.

Seeking the publics cooperation, the Bangkok Metropolitan Police have urged anyone with information about encounters with "Tum Chonburi" to come forward and report their experiences to the police.

Anyone with information related to the suspect, Wattana Srikaney, or the crimes he is believed to have committed, is urged to contact the authorities through the IDMB Bangkok page on Facebook.

Authorities emphasise that such information will be crucial in furthering the investigation and ensuring the suspect faces full charges and justice is served.
India, USA ushers in an era of technology driven equal collaboration

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Dr Jitendra Singh (MoS (IC) Science & Technology)

Prime Minister Narendra Modis just concluded visit to the USA has instantly gone down in the history as it establishes India as a major global player in the years to come. While India and the USA usher in an era of technology driven equal collaboration, it marks the beginning of a journey of which, as Prime Minister Narendra Modi aptly put it, Sky is not the limit.

Indeed, the credit goes to the Prime Minister who, during the last 9 years, took a series of unorthodox and path-breaking decisions, which enabled India to achieve a quantum jump in key areas, as a result of which, for example, the USA which had begun its Space journey several years before India, today solicits India as an equal partner in its future endeavours.

During a ceremony at the Willard Inter-Continental Hotel in Washington on June 21, India became the 27th country to sign the Artemis Accords.

The Artemis Accords establish a practical set of principles to guide civilian space exploration cooperation among nations for peaceful purposes. It enables India to participate in the US led Artemis programme for exploration of moon and other celestial objects. Significantly, the pact will pave the way for easing of restrictions on import of Critical Technologies in space domain especially electronics, bene-fitting Indian companies to develop systems and innovate for US markets. It will also facilitate participation of India in more scientific programmes jointly, allow access to common standards for long term engagements in activities including human Spaceflight pro- grammes and stronger engagements with the US in more strategic areas including micro-electronics, quan- tum, space security etc.

The Artemis Accord is a non-binding agreement with no financial commitments. It was signed on October 13, 2020 by eight Founder Nations,-Australia, Canada, Italy, Japan, Luxembourg, UAE, UK and the United States. Its members include the traditional US allies like Japan, France, New Zealand, UK, Canada, South Korea, Australia and Spain while African Nations like Rwanda, Nigeria etc are the new partners.

Let us try to understand how India will stand to gain by joining the Artemis Accords. According to an estimate, global government expenditure for space programmes hit a record of approximately $103 billion last year. With almost $62 billion, the US Govt spent more than half of the total. The U.S. was followed by China, with almost $12 billion, which is not a part of the consortium, as also Russia which ranks 5th with an annual spending of $3.4B. India ranks 7th with an annual budget of $1.93B.

Let us also try to compare the Space programmes of various nations by the number of Orbital launches in the year 2022. Pay Load Space website says 186 orbital launches were attemp- ted last year, with 76 by the US, China 62, Russia 21 while India made 5 orbital launches. Now, let us compare the third key parameter, viz. number of satellites in space. As of 4th May 2023, the satellite tracking website Orbiting Now lists 7,702 active satellites in various Earth orbits. US has the maximum 2,926 operational satellites, followed by China  493, UK  450, Russia  167, while India ranks 8th with 58 satellites.

Indias space programme is six decades old, and the ISRO came into being seven years later in 1969; international cooperation has been its hallmark with ISRO collaborating with various launch agencies such as Russias Ruscosmos and Europes ESA, while ISRO has launched over 385 foreign satellites from over 34 countries.

Before 2014, ISRO used to undertake launches now and then, but after PM Narendra Modi opened the doors of the Space sector to private sector participation, today ISRO is working with nearly 150 private StartUps. Deep Space Missions require billions of dollars and benefit humanity at large, it is only imperative that nations pool in their resources for the benefit of humankind. Without losing time, like-minded nations have to move on, collaborate and work on each others gains and experiences and as the PM stresses, we must not work in silos!

We may not have to wait long to witness the first major explicit gain of the newfound India-US camaraderie in the Space sector. An Indian astronaut may be sent to the International Space Station (ISS) next year. US President Joe Biden has already confirmed this in the White House after a meeting with Narendra Modi on Thursday.

The joint statement by India and the United States during PM Modis ongoing visit said NASA would provide advanced training to Indian astronauts at one of its facilities.

Other sectors too will see a leap in mutual gains as the two sides. U.S. memory chip firm Micron Technology, Inc said on Thursday it would invest up to $825 million in a new chip assembly and test facility in Gujarat, India, its first factory in the country. Total investment in the facility will be $2.75 billion, with support from the Union Govt and Gujarat Govt.

President Biden and PM Modi also agreed to the establishment of a joint Indo-U.S. Quantum Coordination Mechanism to facilitate collaboration among industry, academia, and government, and work towards a comprehensive Quantum Information Science and Technology agreement. A $2 million grant program is being launched under the U.S.-India Science and Technology Endowment Fund for the joint development and commercialization of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and quantum technologies, and encourage public-private collaborations to develop High Performance Computing (HPC) facilities in India.

President Biden also reiterated his governments commitment to work with U.S. Congress to lower barriers to U.S. exports to India of HPC technology and source code. The U.S. side pledged to make its best efforts in support of Indias Center for Development of Advanced Computing (C-DAC) joining the U.S. Accelerated Data Analytics and Computing (ADAC) Institute. As also, 35 innovative joint research collaborations in emerging technologies will be funded by the U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF) and Indias Department of Science and Technology (DST).

President Biden assured the US support for Indias leadership as Chair of the Global Partnership on AI. The two leaders applauded Googles intent to continue investing through its $10 billion India Digitization Fund, including in early-stage Indian StartUps.

Indias Department of Atomic Energy (DAE) will make a $140 million in-kind contribution to the U.S. Department of Energys (DOEs) Fermi National Laboratory toward collaborative development of the Proton Improvement Plan-II Accelerator, for the Long Baseline Neutrino Facility  the first and largest international research facility on U.S. soil.

In the health sector, research institutes of both countries will collaborate on affordable cancer technology programmes, including for the development of AI enabled diagnostic and prognosis prediction tools, and on diabetes research.

Giving wings to Indias civil aviation sector, Air India will buy 220 Boeing planes for $34 billion. The most apparent sign of India-US ties being at its ever best is that, as PM Modi mentioned in his address to the US Congress, the US is today not only Indias largest trade partner but the Defence sector collaboration reflects the trustworthy relationship.

To conclude with the closing sentence of the Joint Statement issued at the end of PM Narendra Modis USA visit, Our (India and USA) ambitions are to reach ever greater heights PIB
Understanding why the aggression Destroy the bunkers

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Forty eight hours after the resignation drama, Manipur woke up to the ongoing tragic reality. Four killed, including three Meiteis and one Kuki, in a clash somewhere at an area adjoining Bishnupur and Chura-chandpur district. To those who have been closely following the series of clash, the addition of four more deaths in yet another clash at a place lying somewhere between two districts should not come as too much of a shock or a surprise. This is true for those without blinkers or whose views are not clouded by the ugliness of it all. The writings on the wall have been clear and one wonders why these writings should miss the observation of those who are in a way responsible for the upkeep of the law. A critical look at the report carried by The Indian Express which gave a brief detail of a story under the heading, New Manipur security strategy : One force, one area left one pertinent question unanswered. Quoting a security officer, the last paragraph of the news story read, Killings are happening only when one side is going to the other with the intention of arson. The Haraothel incident where two Meitei civilians died on Thursday happened when Kukis retaliated to a Meitei mob trying to burn their houses. The Meitei action itself is a result of some Kukis trying to burn Meitei houses in another area. It is a spiralling cycle which we are trying to break by maintaining a robust buffer zone. This particular quote seems absolutely neutral for it talks about why the Meitei mob tried to set the Kuki houses on fire and the cyclical nature of the violence, but it is also important to look beyond the obvious to get a more rounded understanding of why only one side of the parties in conflict is painted or sought to be portrayed as the aggressor. This is where one needs to have a closer look at some of the reports which have come in from the foothills of Manipur and why the term bunker has become a sort of a terrifying word to many of the people living in the valley area of Manipur.

On June 29, The Sangai Express ran a story from Bishnupur on how Kuki militants opened fire at some farmers who had ventured out to their paddy field for farming works. No one was injured, but here is a clear case of Kuki militants having holed up in some hamlets located in the area adjoining the districts of Bishnupur and Churachandpur. The next day, that is on June 30, another report from Bishnupur talked of how bombs were detonated, a hut standing in the middle of a paddy field was burnt and how cattles were fired upon by Kuki militants. The dawn of a new month, which signalled the completion of two months of the clash, did not see any change as another report came in of Kuki militants firing, hoisting its own flag and building bunkers. Given the nature of the clash and the tense and dangerous atmosphere, it was but natural for the Moirang correspondent of The Sangai Express not to venture near the direction of the place from where the shooting came, but a long range shot of the camera captured the flag being hoisted and if this does not come close to the understanding of a provocation, then one wonders what that would be. This is where it becomes necessary for all the pen pushers and the security experts to understand the ground reality. Go and destroy the bunkers before they are used by the armed militants on the other side, who would then be free to open fire and launch an attack is the response that is naturally expected. The security experts or the Army think tank need to acknowledge the given situation and in such a situation, it would be foolhardy to expect anyone to quietly observe bunkers being set up and the village fired upon indiscriminately. The point is, stop the bunkers being built. This is the first step to silence the guns at the foothills
Photo: Garrett Toothe / CTV News

UPDATE 4:55 p.m.

Police say a tornado in central Alberta has damaged homes but no injuries have come to light so far.

Environment and Climate Change Canada issued a tornado warning at 1:50 p.m. local time on Saturday, noting meteorologists were tracking a severe thunderstorm in Mountain View County that was producing a tornado near Didsbury, Alta.

RCMP said they received reports of a large tornado in the county along Highway 2 at Highway 581, ranging from one to two kilometres wide.

Police said numerous homes were damaged, and while they initially said there were reports of injuries, Cpl. Gina Slaney later said there were no known injuries as of yet.

The tornado warning was later ended.

Lisa Arrowsmith, a former Canadian Press reporter, was driving south on Highway 2 towards Calgary with her husband on Saturday afternoon when she said the sky got dark and they could see a very large funnel cloud to their right.

"The thing that came to my mind is we either have to turn around and drive as fast as we can the other way, or we have to try to outrun this," Arrowsmith said, although she explained that turning around on the divided highway would have been next to impossible due to barriers.

"You make a split-second decision, and we just thought, well, we'd better just floor it and hope for the best."

She said many people had pulled over to shoot video of the twister. But she kept the pedal down and after some hail hit the car, they knew they were finally in the clear, she said.

"It was very frightening to think maybe you were going to get caught on the highway with nowhere to hide and nowhere to seek shelter," she said.

Storm chaser Aaron Jayjack posted video online of a tornado near Didsbury crossing a highway, appearing to damage two rural homes on both sides of the roadway.

In the video, he calls out to anyone who might be in one of the homes, but is prevented from getting any closer due to downed utility lines blocking the driveway.

Police said they would provide further information when it becomes available.

ORIGINAL 4:12 p.m.

Police say a tornado in central Alberta has damaged houses and may have resulted in unspecified injuries.

Environment and Climate Change Canada issued a tornado warning at 1:50 p.m. local time on Saturday, noting meteorologists were tracking a severe thunderstorm in Mountain View County that was producing a tornado near Didsbury, Alta.

RCMP say they received reports of a large tornado in the county along Highway 2 at Highway 581, ranging from one to two kilometres wide.

Police say homes were damaged and there have been reports of injuries.

They warned people in the area to take cover.

Environment Canada warns damaging winds, large hail and locally intense rainfall were also possible.
On a map of India, the dots have been simply marked as Z D A. Those three letters stand for Zawar, Dariba and Agucha and the map figures in a report titled Early Indian Metallurgy ~ The production of lead, silver and zinc through three millennia in north-west India. Dr PT Craddock, with KTM Hedge, LK Gurjar and L Willies finalised the report, first published in 2017. It describes the survey, excavation, and scientific study of three major mines and metal production sites in the Aravalli Hills of Rajasthan, formerly the Mewar region of Rajputana.

All three sites have very extensive remains of mining and smelting activity that occurred through three millennia, that is 3000 years of history that lies in mines. The major minerals exploited at these mines were mixed lead/zinc sulphides. Zinc is currently the principal metal extracted together with minor amounts of lead and zinc.

Till date, the three mines ~ Zawar, Dariba and Agucha ~ are categorised as heritage mines by Hindustan Zinc Ltd, now part of the Vedanta Group, and continue to be mined. Dr Paul T Craddock, the Emeritus Researcher, Conservation and Scientific Research at The British Museum, London explained in a media interview in 2019, In antiquity the driving force behind the establishment by the Mauryans of the major mines at Agucha and Dariba, was the production of silver but at Zawar it is more likely to have been zinc oxide. In the medieval and postmedieval periods some lead and copper were produced at Dariba, mining had ceased altogether at Agucha.

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But at Zawar zinc metal was produced by advanced processes at high temperature distillation, almost certainly the first production of zinc on an industrial scale anywhere in the world. It certainly marks a first for the sub-continent and challenges the Eurocentric view of technological superiority with new scientific facts. The birth of the project to study mines of Mewar is fascinating. The report states, In 1980 Mr Kenneth Bush of Zinc International, RP Kapur of HZL and PT Craddock of British Museum met in London to discuss the feasibility of the project to research into the history of zinc production at Zawar.

The British Museum Research Laboratory (later the Department of Conservation and Science) was already engaged in research into development of copper alloys, especially brass. The Department of Archaeology at the MS University Baroda had a longterm interest in all aspects of scientific archaeology and KTM Hegde had already carried out surveys of early mining activity in the Aravallis. None of the organisations had the expertise in underground explorations and recording of early mine workings. Said Dr Craddock, That is why the team of mining archaeologists at the Peak District Mining Museum was invited to join.

They had worked on ancient copper mines in Israel and copper, silver mines in Spain. L Willies brought his European experience to the Aravallis. In 1982 the joint project was set up and it was the potential of Zawar which aroused our interest. The project was completed in seven years, in 1989, with four short seasons in the field and much longer sessions in laboratories and libraries both in UK and India.

The production of zinc by distillation is described in several iatrochemical texts from the first millennium CE, and the translation of these laboratory methods into a viable commercial chemical process in the medieval period was a remarkable achievement. Iatrochemical refers to use of chemicals for medicinal purposes; zinc quite clearly had pharmaceutical uses, known to Greeks, Romans and the different socio-religious groups across the sub-continent who were developing their own medical systems. What the report highlighted was that these Aravalli mines, in the region of Mewar, were major and complex industrial enterprises taking place well outside the Eurocentric Middle Eastern areas that were the source of most studies of early technology.

The scale and technical sophistication of the processes represented were quite unexpected. In the post-medieval period, these mines had been abandoned or were in serious decline; this was the dawn of the colonial age which witnessed economic and commercial subjugation, leading to decline and ultimate extinction of indigenous technologies. In the 18th and 19th centuries CE, this was a common occurrence through the world. Archaeo-metallurgy and archaeology pose innumerable challenges for its practitioners. Dr Craddock, in the report, explained that simple tasks like ore sampling can throw up questions. As exemplified by Zawar in antiquity, the potential ores of zinc, silver and leader were all mined.

But which were the ores actually sought at particular phases in the mines history is still not known for certain, he said. He added that the ores found in the mines today are the ones which the previous miners did not want! He gave the example of Agucha where the argentiferous minerals were removed but the zinc rich deposits were left. In Zawar, for example, the silver content of the minerals left in the huge ancient galleries is low, but it might have been much higher in the ore that was removed, which once occupied space now several metres from the present walls, the report revealed.

Dr Craddock explained the significance of ascertaining the smelting process in these ancient mines. What the visitors today can see are featureless heaps of production debris spread over kilometres, often quite deep too, as in Dariba. At Zawar, the zinc smelting furnaces have survived in situ, in their original place. This is a rare occurrence and a boon for the archaeologists, he said. In the past, archaeologists charged with investigation of sites of early metal production tended to avoid slag heaps ~ which was unfortunate as this is where the process information can be found.

They were concentrating on ancillary buildings, fortifications, road systems and burials. Information on the smelting process lies in the debris itself. The slags and associated refractory fragments contain a direct and permanent record of the smelting process from the study of which principal operating parameters can be established. It is difficult to date slag heaps; we relied primarily on radiocarbon dating, fortunately there were usually abundant quantities of charcoal found.

Slag itself is the principal component of most heaps and a selection of three typical pieces from every layer, about 8 sq cm, should suffice for scientific study. Refractory fragments are also collected, quantified, and selected for study, Dr Craddock said. At Zawar the aim was to sample the selection of retort and slag heaps, the almost intact furnaces that were still bearing their last load of retorts; this led to their excavation in a more conventional archaeological fashion. We could establish heat regimes of refractory pieces obtained from precise locations in and around the furnace structures, he said, in effect meaning that they could see the Zawar smelting process in action even though they were separated in time by centuries.

A range of analytical methods was used including optical microscopy, thin section petrography, scanning electron microscopy with energy dispersive Xray analysis, X-ray diffraction and atomic absorption spectroscopy at the laboratories of HZL and British Museum, as well as inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectroscopy. Although large-scale industrial enterprises were in progress at these mines contemporary with major mines of the classical world, they have previously received scant recognition, even in antiquity when they were in operation. Said Dr Craddock, We wanted to expand the study of industrial technical innovation and establishment of large-scale production beyond the usual Eurocentric view ~ the development of zinc distillation process at Zawar is important.

Way back in the first millennium CE, methods of producing, condensing metallic zinc were established at Zawar. The zinc oxide was probably intended for brass production too. What is significant is that systems had been developed to collect zinc vapour as a metal on an industrial scale, based on the pre-existing laboratory methods. The real innovation was to develop these into viable industrial processes. The mines at Zawar would always have been under the control of the ruling authority of Maharanas of Mewar, whose capitalcity was Chittaurgarh. Clearly, the Kingdom of Mewar encouraged and supported real innovation and industrial scale production. At Zawar there must have been hundreds, if not thousands of furnace blocks, fitted with components such as perforated plates with identical dimensions. Clearly tens of thousands of these components must have been made in central workshops to maximise efficiency and to ensure maintenance of overall control. Dr Craddock and the team went on record to state that we were impressed by the scale and obvious systematic organisation of the early operation, so much at variance with the European descriptions of the last indigenous mining operations still taking place in 19th century India.

This surprise was even greater because it had been assumed from the excellent state of preservation that these must be late workings contemporary with the last recorded operations in the 18th and early 19th century at Zawar. Radiocarbon dates showed underground mine workings to be ancient; that is to say, the previous millennia operations had been conducted in a more superior fashion than those employed in the 19th century CE. It is a real tribute to our ancestors, a historical nugget dug out deep from the mines of Mewar.

(The writer is a researcherwriter on history and heritage issues, and former deputy curator of Pradhanmantri Sangrahalaya)
Prime Minister Narendra Modi raised the controversial issue of a Uniform Civil Code again this week while addressing BJP workers in Bhopal. Madhya Pradesh is going to the polls at the end of the year. It was not an off-the-cuff remark, as Modi had measured every word. Significantly, it was part of the Sangh Parivars core agenda.

Modi has overseen the other two parts of the agenda in the past nine years of his regime  building the Ram Temple in Ayodhya and revoking Article 370. Bringing a Uniform Civil Code remains on the table. There are various angles, such as political, legislative, religious, gender and Constitutional, to the question. The origin of the UCC dates back to colonial India. The British government submitted its report in 1835 and recommended uniformity in the codification of Indian law. Whether India needs a single law and whether now is the time to implement it remains a question mark.

Article 44 of the Constitution stipulates the state shall endeavour to secure a UCC throughout India for citizens. According to the Directive Principles of State Policy, the UCC is essential. Interestingly, Goa is the only Indian state that follows a uniform civil code. The Portuguese law of 1867 remained even after India annexed Goa. The Supreme Court asked the Centre why it was not extended to other states. Despite the codification of Hindu laws in 1956, a consensus on the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) is yet to be achieved in India. Various religious communities in India currently abide by their own distinct personal laws.

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The UCC intends to unify all personal religious laws, encompassing marriage, divorce, property rights, inheritance, and maintenance, under a secular framework. The UCC has become more politically charged. Supporters and opponents are arguing on both sides.

Supporters believe that sooner or later, there must be a common law that applies to all religious communities. The BJP believes in bringing the UCC as soon as possible. Prime Minister Modi, while making a strong pitch for the UCC, said in Bhopal that the Constitution speaks of having equal rights. If there is one law for one member in a house and another for the other, will the house be able to run? So how will the country be able to run with such a dual system? the Prime Minister asked.

He argued that passing a uniform civil law would provide more benefits despite many differences and conflicts. The UCC would provide gender quality and remove different laws for different religions. Modi urged Muslims to see how the Opposition provoked and exploited them. The opponents, led by the Congress, fear the loss of minority votes.

They oppose it, as Muslims and other minorities do not favour it. Although some Islamic countries have adopted a common law for all, there has yet to be a consensus in India. The UCC is prevalent in France, the United Kingdom, the United States, and Australia.

However, Kenya, Pakistan, Italy, South Africa, Nigeria, and Greece do not have it. The issue had been debated in the Constituent Assembly. Indias first Prime Minister, Jawahar Lal Nehru, postponed a decision claiming, I do not think that at the present moment, the time is ripe for me to try to push it (UCC) through. Had the framers of our Constitution decided on the issue, there would have been no problem. Modis call for a UCC has provoked sharp criticism from opposition parties.

Many, including DMK, RJD, and JD (U) and AIMIM, led by the Congress, allege that Modi was diverting attention from bread-and-butter issues such as rising prices, unemployment and violence in Manipur. They note that there needs to be a consensus on the subject. The opponents point out that Muslims perceive the UCC as infringing on their religious freedom.

The Supreme Court highlighted the importance of a UCC in 1985, stating that it would help maintain national unity. In 1995, the Court recommended that a single law govern all citizens. In 2019, the Modi government expressed its commitment to implementing the UCC for all, following the Supreme Courts ban on Triple Talaq, thus doing justice to Muslim women on divorce. Last month, the Law Commission of India began to examine UCC afresh. It solicited views and suggestions from the public.

In a secular country like India, UCC is significant to assure the majority that there is one law for all. Seventy-five years have passed, and it is time to consider it seriously in a country where 65 per cent are youth. However, it is the political will that is required. The Prime Minister must convene an all-party meeting to mobilise support for the UCC. With Assembly elections in some states and the General elections scheduled for next year, the UCC may have to wait for some more time.
Russian President Vladimir Putin appears to have survived the challenge to his leadership after his one-time protege and leader of the Wagner mercenary group, Yevgeny Prigozhin, called off his uprising against the Kremlins military establishment. But the sigh of relief in Beijing is perhaps nearly as loud as the one in Moscow given Chinese President Xi Jinpings investment in relations with Mr Putin at a personal level and the Russian state strategically. China has looked to the Russian Federation as its main partner in counterbalancing the United States-led West and its allies; both President Xi and President Putin have made their opposition to the US-dominated post-World War II international order very clear indeed. In fact, it is the raison detre for the no-limits partnership between the two countries. So, the Wagner near-rebellion and what it may portend for Russia concerns China deeply.

According to Patricia M. Kim of Brookings, Chinas first-order concerns likely revolve around the potential for domestic upheaval in Russia, with which it shares a more than 2,600-mile border, to spill over into China or to destabilise its immediate neighbourhood. Just as American officials have been closely tracking Russias nuclear posture since the crisis, Chinese leaders are also anxious about the risk of loose Russian nukes and the threat this would pose to Chinas security. The Wagner mercenary armys undoubted military capabilities and the weakness they exposed in the Russian armed forces even with their aborted rebellion have raised fears in Beijing that Chinas strategic alignment with a weakened Russia may turn out to be a burden rather than an advantage. While there is no immediate pressure on President Xi to change tack, Chinese Communist Party strategists will undoubtedly be factoring this development into their policy inputs keeping Beijings interests uppermost.

But it is more than just immediate security concerns which would be worrying the Chinese. Russias trajectory over the coming months and years is now an undoubted cause for pessimism, especially after its botched invasion of Ukraine and the punishing international sanctions imposed on it as a result. Economists agree that the sanctions are likely to cripple the countrys economy in the near future. Some in the CCP policymaking establishment are reported to hold the view that even Russias oil and gas reserves will not help it avert an economic disaster, and its impact will be felt by China as it has significantly deepened economic ties with Moscow. This, added to the reputational damage China has already suffered in not just the West but also parts of the non-aligned world for its backing of Russia on the Ukraine crisis, will undermine chances of a SinoUS detente. Again, that is not in Beijings interest. China has till now refrained from openly criticising Prigozhin or expressing direct support for Mr Putin. That in itself tells a story.

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Trinamul Congress national general secretary Abhishek Banerjee is set to visit Malda once again following the resounding success of the partys Nobo Jowar Jatra. He is supposed to address a massive rally tomorrow. Diamond Harbour MP Banerjee will attend a public meeting at Hatimari Maidan in Block 1, Kaliachak on Sunday, 2 July.

Today, senior TMC leaders of the Malda district, including IC Udayashankar Ghosh of Kaliachak police station, visited Hatimari Maidan. District Trinamul Congress sources have informed that the public meeting will be held at 1 pm on Sunday.

Block presidents of 15 blocks in the district, along with presidents of branch organizations and party workers, have been instructed to attend. Abdur Rahim Bakshi, president of Malda district Trinamul Congress, stated that preparations for Abhishek Banerjees meeting in Malda are in full swing and the common people are eagerly awaiting his arrival.

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TMC national general secretary, Abhishek Banerjee, has already criticized the BJPled Centre for allegedly withholding the states share of funds under various welfare schemes.

He also announced that after the panchayat elections, over 10 lakh people from Bengal would march with him to Delhi to demand their rightful share. The three-tier panchayat elections will be held in Bengal on 8 July, with the counting of votes on 11 July.
General Secretary of All India Trinamul Congress (AITC) Abhishek Banerjee today came down heavily on Alipurduar MP John Barla, who is also Union Minister of State for Minority Affairs. Addressing an election rally at Falakata in Alipurduar district, AITC leader Abhishek Banerjee today blamed Union Minister Mr Barla for non payment of Central funds meant for 100-day job and housing project for the people of West Bengal. John Barla does not have his official job. His only job in Delhi is to increase his number by licking feet, AITC General Secretary Abhishek Banerjee said.

I will quit politics if Mr Barla can prove that he has held a single meeting in Alipurduar in the interest of the people, Mr Banerjee said, adding, He is a product of guarantor. How many times you have seen Barla? Terming Prime Minister Narendra Modi as guarantor, AITC leader Mr Banerjee said: Narendra Modi describing himself as guarantor claimed that he would present corruption free peoples representative. Did you see the house of John Barla?

He is a product of Modi. He also added: His another product is Suvendu Adhikari. All have seen him on television, he has received money. But no action was taken against him by Modi. Urging people to cast vote in favour of Trinamul Congress AITC General Secretary asked: Who is the guarantor of Alipurduar?

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Tell me, who? Didi or Modi ? Is Modi a guarantor here ?  Didi (Mamata Banerjee) is the only guarantor here. You will cast vote to ensure your rights to obtain legitimate claims by electing Trinamul led new civic body. Abhishek Banerjee also announced that after the end of Panchayat polls Trinamul Congress will stage bigger demonstration in Delhi demanding Central funds.

The Central government has stopped disbursement of funds of Rs 7,500 crore meant for 100 day job and Rs 8,000 crore meant for housing scheme. The state governments share of Rs 1.5 lakh crore from the Centre is yet to release, he claimed.
Trinamul Youth Congress president Saayoni Ghosh has been summoned by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) for a second round of questioning regarding the multicrore school recruitment case on 5 July. The actress-turned-politician faced an exhaustive 11- hour questioning at EDs Salt Lake office on Friday. Meanwhile, the actress name has been omitted from the list of campaigners for the panchayat polls. On Saturday, the ruling Trinamul Congress released the list of campaigners for the panchayat polls on the first day of July, which contains the names of the top leaders of the party.

However, Saayonis name was missing. Previously, her name was on the list of panchayat poll campaigners, published by the Trinamul until last Wednesday. During the Friday questioning, 12 pm. to 11 pm, Ghosh did not visibly attempt to evade or avoid questions.

However, according to sources from the agency, she provided several contradictory answers on various occasions. As a result, she was summoned again on 5 July to clarify inconsistencies in her statements. Following Ghoshs departure, the ED office hinted that she may be summoned for further questioning again. Ghosh said, I have fully cooperated.

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They requested some documents, which I have already submitted. If they call me again, I will appear. If necessary, I am willing to stay here for 24 hours and cooperate. Sources revealed that Ghosh was questioned based on her WhatsApp chat messages with another accused in the school recruitment case, former youth Trinamul Congress leader Kuntal Ghosh.

Additionally, the actressturned-politician was questioned about certain banking transactions between her and Kuntal Ghosh, which have come to light during the investigation.

These transactions are related to the purchase of property. Ghosh was instructed to appear at the ED office on Friday with all relevant documents, including bank statements, income tax returns from previous years, and details of her properties and assets.
Its complicated. The relationship between the three political parties, Trinamool, the CPIM and the Congress, that is. And at no other time has the complex nature of their relationship been more glaring than now, when all three parties have decided to be a part of a union of Opposition leaders which has joined hands to take down the BJP-led NDA government at the Centre in the Parliamentary elections of 2024.

The one question that has come up since June 23, when the leaders of seventeen Opposition political parties met in Patna and decided that they would bury their hatchets for the common cause of dethroning arch rival BJP, is how would this new alliance affect the acrimonious equations between Trinamool and the two parties that it has been at loggerheads with in the state of West Bengal  the CPIM and the Congress, which have been jointly rivaling Mamata Banerjee and her ruing grassroots party in every recent election.

Explaining the dynamics in an interview to The Statesman, veteran CPIM leader and former MP and Politburo member, Mohammad Salim said, The question of any changes in the position of the CPIM or the Left parties as far as Trinamool is concerned does not arise because the Left is fighting against the rule of Trinamool in the state, focusing on specific issues, which include corruption and various scams.

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Salim also states that the decision to unite in order to try to topple the BJP government does not constitute an alliance. He says, It would be incorrect to say that the CPIM and other Communist parties decided to work together with Trinamool. Trinamool is just one of the parties which have joined the united Opposition. It comprises several other political parties. The CPIM and the other Left parties are not engaging with the Trinamool in any other way.

Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury, President of the West Bengal Pradesh Congress Committee too said that there will be no shift in the status quo in the state as far as equations between the Congress and the Trinamool is concerned. Congress has always opposed the BJP whereas the Trinamool chief Mamata Banerjee had earlier been a part of the NDA government. Chowdhury is referring to the time when Banerjee had joined the BJP-led NDA government of then Prime Minister Atal Bihar Vajpayee in 1999 and became Railway Minister.

According to Salim  who corroborated that the June 23 meeting will be followed not just by another meeting early this month but by several rounds of meetings before the Parliamentary elections  Trinamool was not the initiator of this union of Opposition political parties and the Left, therefore, is not technically joining the Trinamool. In fact, said Salim, there was another front that was suggested by her (Banerjee) earlier this year and several leaders including Odisha chief minister Naveen Patnaik had been approached but it fell through because some of them did not agree to join the anti-BJP platform.

Political experts point out that political exigencies dictate the political decisions that are taken. On the topic of complicated relationships, Congress and the Left parties, which are currently fighting Didi together in Bengal, had themselves had massive fallouts in the past. In 2008, the Left parties pulled out support from the Congress-led UPA government of then Prime Minister Manmohan Singh over the signing of the Indo-US Nuclear Deal. Yet, Congress Rahul Gandhi and Mallikarjun Kharge will once again sit with CPIMs Sitaram Yechury in the next meeting of Opposition leaders scheduled to be held around July 10. Didi is also going to be there, it is reported.
Trinamul Congress (TMC) MLA Mangobinda Adhikari on Saturday was forced to walk on foot through a muddy road by the people in East Burdwan in West Bengal. The TMC MLA had gone to Bhatar assembly constituency in East Burdwan district of West Bengal to campaign for the upcoming panchyat polls. The people in the area alleged that the TMC government has failed to repair the roads in rural areas since the party came to power in 2011.

The people alleged that despite several appeals neither the district administration nor the local panchayat bodies had taken any initiative to repair the road. We wanted the legislator to feel how problematic it is to walk over the muddy roads, a local said.

Meanwhile, the Leader of the Opposition Suvendu Adhikari posted a video of TMC MLA walking through the muddy road on his official Twitter and Facebook handles and posted a message ridiculing the state gover nment.  The Walk of Shame.

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When Shri Mangobindo Adhikary; Regional Tolamool Party MLA of Bhatar Assembly Constituency; Purba Bardhaman District, arrived at Nityanandapur Gram Panchayat area in the Bhatar Block, which comes under his Assembly Constituency, for campaigning, the people of the village forced him to Walk down on the lane of DEVELOPMENT !

This isnt a stray incident, this is happening across WB, as people are courageously voicing their discontent towards the corrupt TMC Party. (sic), the Leader of Opposition tweeted.
Delhi Minister Atishi on Sunday wrote another letter to Lt. Governor V.K. Saxena accusing him of not taking any action against the officials in connection with the two tragic deaths, one of an auto driver in Harsh Vihar and second at the LNJP Hospital.

She demanded that power should be transferred to the Delhi government.

In the first incident, on June 29 a driver lost his life after his auto-rickshaw fell into a water-filled pothole in Harsh Nagar. In the other incident, a man was electrocuted at a construction site at LNJP Hospital.

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In first case, the Public Works Department (PWD) officials are responsible. The second incident took place at LNJP Hospital, where a worker died due to an electric shock during construction work today. Despite these accidents, you have remained silent and inactive.

Two days have passed since the death of the auto-rickshaw driver due to the officials negligence, but you have neither taken any action nor spoken about it, read her letter.

She said that the L-G had the power to take action against the officials but despite it, he wasnt taking any action.

You are sitting silently, and no action is being taken against the officials responsible for the loss of peoples lives, she accused the L-G.

She further stated in the letter that for the past eight years the power over services in Delhi had been in the hands of the Lieutenant Governor, but no action has been taken against any official for doing wrong or being negligent.

Therefore, the power to suspend officials, take action against them, and transfer them should rest with the elected government of the state. That is why we have approached the court against this black law ordinance, her letter read.

Earlier in the day, she wrote a letter to the L-G on the demolition of two religious structures.
In a surprising turn of events, which in some ways resembled the split in Shiv Sena almost a year back, NCP leader Ajit Pawar took oath as Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister with eight other party legislators also joining the National Democratic Alliance government in the state.

The Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) experienced an internal division as senior leader Ajit Pawar joined the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) along with a group of MLAs. Ajit Pawar said all MLAs are with him and they have joined the Shiv Sena-BJP government as a party.

We have all the numbers. All MLAs are with me. We are here as a party. We have informed all seniors also. The majority is given importance in a democracy. Our party is 24-year old and young leadership should come forward, Ajit Pawar said after taking oath as Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra.

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The Deputy CM further said that a few other ministers would be added in the next expansion.

We took a decision to come with the Shinde-Fadanvis govt with almost all MLAs of NCP. We took the oath and a few other ministers will be added in the next expansion, Ajit Pawar said.

State Governor Ramesh Bais administered the oath to NCP Leader Ajit Pawar as Maharashtras second Deputy Chief Minister.

The Governor also gave oaths to Chhagan Bhujbal, Dilip Walse-Patil, Hasan Mushrif, Dhananjay Munde, Dharmarao Baba Atram, Aditi Tatkare, Sanjay Bansode and Anil Patil.

After the dramatic turn of events, Chief Minister Eknath Shinde said that the double-engine government in the state has now become triple-engine and it will run like a bullet train.

CM Shinde said, Now we have 1 Chief Minister and 2 Deputy Chief Ministers. The double-engine government has now become a triple-engine and now it will run like a bullet train. For the development of Maharashtra, I welcome Ajit Pawar and his leaders. Ajit Pawars experience will help strengthen Maharashtra.

As per the party sources, Maharashtra Deputy CM Ajit Pawar has the backing of more than 40 MLAs in the State Legislative Assembly and more than 6 MLCs in the Legislative Council.

Talking to the media in a joint press conference with Deputy CM Ajit Pawar, NCP leader Chhagan Bhujabal refuted claims of splitting the party and said that they have joined the government as its third party.

We have joined the government as its third party. Few people are saying that we have split the party but that is not correct, we have come here as NCP, Bhujabal said.

Party chief Sharad Pawar slammed Ajit Pawars move and said, this is not googly, it is a robbery and that he was worried about the future of those who left the party.

Talking to reporters after his nephew and eight other party leaders rebelled and joined the Shiv Sena-BJP government in Maharashtra, Pawar said he was not worried about what happened and will work to strengthen the party again.

He also hinted at action against party leaders Praful Patel and Sunil Tatkare, saying they did not follow their responsibilities. Sharad Pawar said some of those who joined the Shiv Sena-BJP government were facing ED cases.

Some of my colleagues have taken a different stand. I had called a meeting of all the leaders on July 6, where some important issue was to be discussed and some changes were to be made within the party but before that meeting, some of the leaders have taken a different stand.

Sharad Pawar said that in the next two-three days, they will sit with Congress and Uddhav Thackeray to access the situation. Our main strength is the common people, they have elected us.

Apparently referring to Ajit Pawar who faced accusations related to the alleged irrigation scam, Pawar took a dig at BJP and Prime Minister Narendra Modi saying, it is clear that all the charges have been cleared.

Two days ago the PM had said about NCP He had said two things in his statement that NCP is a finished party. He mentioned irrigation complaint and allegations of corruption. I am happy that some of my colleagues have taken oath. From this (joining the NDA government) it is clear that all the charges have been cleared. I am thankful to him, Pawar said.

Sharad Pawar said he had dealt with splits earlier and rejuvenated the party.

This is not a new thing. The party I was leading in 1980 had 58 MLAs, later all left and only 6 MLAs left, but I strengthened the numbers and those who left me lost in their constituencies, he said.

The former Maharashtra Chief Minister said he has been receiving calls from other opposition leaders including Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge and West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee over developments in Maharashtra.

Meanwhile, Uddhav Thackeray faction leader and spokesperson Anand Dubey said that we should not forget that BJP has a history to stab in the back.

The leaders who were in the opposition and used to criticise the government until yesterday, have joined the same government today. Today BJP wanted Ajit Pawar, so they took him, but we should not forget that BJP has a history to stab in the back, Dubey said.

Uddhav Thackeray Faction MP Sanjay Raut said that Maharashtra will get another CM in a few days.

We already knew that this was going to happen. Eknath Shinde and the 16 MLAs that went with him will be disqualified. Maharashtra will get another CM in a few days, MP Sanjay Raut said.

This dramatic turn of events took place a year after Eknath Shinde revolted out of the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) Government of Maharashtra along with 39 MLAs and split Shiv Sena, National Congress Party (NCP) leader Ajit Pawar along with 8 NCP MLAs sworn in as Deputy Chief Minister and Ministers respectively, of the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) government in Maharashtra breaking the MVA opposition alliance.

Notably in 2019, the Shiv Sena ended the two-decade-old alliance with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and formed the Maha Vikas Aghadi government in Maharashtra with the Congress and Sharad Pawars Nationalist Congress Party.

But the MVA government collapsed in June 2022 after Eknath Shinde split the party and joined hands with the BJP to form a new government.

Eknath Shinde was later sworn in as Chief Minister of Maharashtra on June 30, 2022, and BJPs Devendra Fadnavis took oath as Deputy Chief Minister.

The BJP-Shiv Sena alliance, which fought the 2019 Maharashtra Assembly elections together, won 161 seats (BJP  105 and Shiv Sena  56). The NCP got 54 seats while the Congress bagged 44 seats.

According to sources, MLAs accompanying Ajit Pawar to Raj Bhawan were

upset with NCP supremo Sharad Pawars unilateral decision to share the stage and ally with Rahul Gandhi at the opposition unity meet in Bihars Patna last month.

Sharad Pawar will sit to decide about any action against the rebel leaders.

I will never say that my home has split, this issue is not regarding my home, this is the issue of people. I am worried about the future of those who left. I want to give the credit for this to PM Modi. Two days ago, he had made statements and after that statement, some people started feeling uneasy, some of them were also facing ED actions, he added.

Maharashtra Congress chief Nana Patole said, BJP is in power in the centre and misusing it. BJP is carrying out Operation Lotusruining the politics of the countryBJP can do anything for power, they either scare members of other parties using ED & CBI or else will offer them moneypeople of Maharashtra is condemning this and BJP will never come back to power in this state.
Sounding the poll bugle in Telangana, Congress leader Rahul GandhiCongress leader Rahul Gandhi on Sunday said that with the BJP fizzling out in the state, it will be a straight fight between the Congress and the BRS which according to him stands for BJPs Rishtedar Party in the upcoming Assembly elections.

Gandhi addressed a huge public rally at Khammam in South Telangana and repeatedly called the BRS as the B Team of the saffron party and that Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao does everything to appease the Prime Minister since his remote control is in the hands of Mr Modi. Their involvement in the liquor scam had left the chief minister vulnerable to the BJP.

He also revealed that because of the objections raised by the Congress, the BRS was not even invited to the meetings to hammer out Opposition unity.

In Delhi prior to the Opposition meeting, we were told that we need to invite the TRS (BRS). We told them if the TRS gets invited, then the Congress will not turn up. TRS is the B team of the BJP. We will not sit with them. We will get rid of the BRS. We can never have an understanding with the BJPs B team, said Gandhi.

He also took a dig at the ruling party saying that the name change from TRS to BRS (BJP Rishtedar Party) reflected the role they play as the B team of the saffron party.

Gandhi said that the BJP has fizzled out in Telangana. BJP has met its end in Telangana. It is like a car stranded on the highway with all four tyres punctured. The fight will be between the Congress and the B team of the BJP, said the former Congress president.

Reminding his audience of the victory of Congress in neighbouring Karnataka, he said that his party fought against a corrupt and anti-poor government and threw it out.

The same thing will be repeated in Telangana claimed Gandhi while adding that Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao was running a corrupt government with his family members and some businessmen and snatching away the rights of the Dalits, tribals, underprivileged and the deprived. The Congress today promised to give Rs 4000 as pension to senior citizens and widows and distribute forest pattas among tribal families.

While former BRS MP from Khammam Ponguleti Srinivasa Reddy today joined the Congress, Gandhi said that their doors were open, inviting all those who had left the Congress in the past to return to the party fold.
Slamming the move of Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) senior leader Ajit Pawar joining Chief Minister Eknath Shinde led government in Maharashtra and taking oath as the Deputy Chief Minister of the state, the Congress on Sunday said this is not a legitimately elected government, but an ED-facilitated power grab.

Reacting to the major political development in Maharashtra, Congress General Secretary KC Venugopal in a tweet said: The BJPs dirty tricks department is working on overdrive in Maharashtra. This is not a legitimately elected government, but an ED-facilitated power grab. The Maharashtra government is a product of corruption and sin. The people have very well identified the traitors, corrupt and compromised leaders of Maharashtra and each of them will be taught the lessons of their lifetime in the next elections.

On June 29, PM Modi had spoken about corruption. It appears he switched on the washing machine and these leaders are now squeaky clean after this oath taking ceremony, the Congress leader said.

In a tweet, Congress leader Jairam Ramesh said: Clearly the BJPs washing machine has resumed its operations. A number of new entrants into the BJP-led alliance in Maharashtra today had been facing serious corruption charges with ED, CBI and Income Tax authorities after them. Now they have all got a clean chit.

The Congress will intensify its efforts to free Maharashtra from the clutches of the BJP, he added.

After NCP leader Ajit Pawar took oath as the new Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra, Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) Minister Atishi said that it is the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) washing machine in action.

Whoever is facing corruption charges, facing different cases, they are definitely afraid of the CBI (Central Bureau of Investigation) and ED (Enforcement Directorate). Such people continuously go to BJP and get themselves cleaned in the BJPs washing machine. Those who got the call of ED, CBI joined BJP, she told a news agency.

Atishi was referring to the claim of many opposition parties against the BJP for allegedly harassing political opponents with the help of investigative agencies like the CBI or ED.

Meanwhile, in his reaction to Ajit Pawar joining the Eknath Shinde-led government, Communist Party of India (CPI) general secretary D Raja said: We should wait and see what is going to be its impact on the politics of Maharashtra and on the politics of the countryBJP is trying to do everything to stay in power.

Meanwhile, Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) president Mehbooba Mufti said that no words are enough to condemn the manner in which the BJP has repeatedly undermined the popular mandate in Maharashtra after Ajit Pawar took oath as Deputy Chief Minister in CM Eknath Shinde led government in the state.

Mehbooba Mufti said not only is democracy being butchered but the national anthem was played to provide cover for such actions.

No words are enough to condemn the manner in which BJP has repeatedly undermined the popular mandate in Maharashtra. Not only is democracy being butchered but they are using the national anthem to provide cover for such disgraceful actions. On one hand, BJP is arresting political opponents on trumped-up corruption charges while they themselves are on an MLA purchasing spree. Hard-earned public money is being misused to quench BJPs thirst for power, Mehbooba Mufti tweeted.
One month ago, the tragic triple train accident involving Coromandel Express and Yeshwantpur Howrah Express occurred in Odishas Bahanaga Bazaar in Balasore.

The mishap shook the entire country and devastated many families as at least 293 people were killed and over 1000 injured in Indias worst train accident in the last three decades.

After the news flashed, the family members of passengers started searching for their loved ones. Over 210 people were able to identify bodies of their family members and performed their last rites. Those who found their loved ones in hospitals with injuries were lucky.

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However, even though one month has passed since the incident, many families are still waiting for their family members. West Bengals Ashok Rabidas is one of them. He is waiting for the authorities to allow him to take the mortal remains of his younger brother Krishna Rabidas (22).

After roaming from one hospital to another, Ashok Rabidas reached AIIMS Bhubaneswar where dead bodies of unidentified persons were preserved.

To identify the body of his brother Krishna, the AIIMS authority has sent DNA samples of Ashok and the concerned body to the Central Forensic Science Laboratory (CFSL) in New Delhi.

Meanwhile, DNA reports of 29 bodies matching with their claimants have been received by the AIIMS Bhubaneswar. However, Krishnas DNA report has not arrived, said Ashok.

Ashok, a native of Harischandanpur Tripletala village of Malda in West Bengal, was staying here at a guest house provided by railways. As the waiting is not over and he has to return to his work, Ashok left for his village four days back and now his brother Sibcharan Rabidas is waiting in Bhubaneswar for Krishnas body.

Sharing his story with IANS, Ashok said that Krishna worked as a daily wage labourer in Bangalore since July 2022, where he laid underground pipes. On June 2 he was returning home in the Yeshwantpur Howrah Express for his younger sisters wedding.

My sisters wedding was scheduled for June 12. Now, it has been cancelled. Discussion was also initiated with the family members of a girl for Krishna marriage as well. We had planned to conduct Krishnas wedding after our sisters. However, the accident spoiled everything, said Ashok.

My father and mother are completely broken down after the incident. More worrisome is that we have yet to get the body of our brother, due to which, nothing is normal in our house. Even my family members have been following all the rituals when someone dies in a Hindu family since the accident, he said.

Similarly, Sibakanta Roy from Cooch Behar district of West Bengal is in trauma as the body of his son Bipul Roy was taken away by another family from Bihar.

I was in Arunachal Pradesh when I came to know about the accident. I immediately went home and requested our BDO to arrange a vehicle for me. He arranged it and I arrived at Balasore, Roy said.

After searching here and there, the father came across the picture of Bipul on a wall among the photographs of all deceased persons. Stunned, Sibakanta, when sought his sons body, came to know that someone from Bihar had already taken it.

After reaching AIIMS Bhubaneswar, I came to know that my sons body was taken by someone else. Now what can I do? asked Roy.

Out of 293 persons who died in the tragic train accident on June 2 evening, unidentified 81 dead bodies were stored in AIIMS Bhubaneswar, of which 29 have been identified through DNA testing. Another 52 bodies are yet to be identified.
Amarnath pilgrims carrying fake registration permits have rung alarm bells among the security forces that have already been put on high alert against any terror attack.

Detection of fake registration slips being carried by a large number of pilgrims particularly from Delhi and UP is worrying the authorities. About 500 fake registration permits have so far been detected for the pilgrimage that began on 1 July.

In a quick action, the Jammu District Police has arrested three Delhi-based fraudsters who were allegedly engaged in selling fake registration slips for the yatra and duping the pilgrims.

Senior Superintendent of Police Chandan Kohli said that the prime accused of this racket along with two of his associates has been arrested.

A team of Jammu Police raided in Delhi and succeeded in the arrest of the accused namely Harender Verma, resident of West Rohtas Nagar, Shahdara Delhi. Later, two other accused namely Daleep Prajapati and Vinod Kumar were also arrested.

The main accused was involved in preparation of fake registration slips while other two associates were indulged in arranging bus service and medical certificates for devotees. The pilgrims were falling prey to fraudsters although the authorities have repeatedly asked them to register themselves only through notified Government means. The District Administration of Jammu has detected at least 300 fake registration permits of Shri Amarnath Yatra. Giving information regarding the issue, the Deputy Commissioner Jammu, Avny Lavasa said that an FIR has already been registered by the police. Advertisement

The District Administration of Samba intercepted two buses carrying 68 pilgrims from Muzaffarnagar in UP and found that most of them were carrying fake yatra permits. Investigations further revealed that one Rahul Bhardwaj had sold each permit for Rs 7000 to the pilgrims.

Deputy Commissioner Samba, Abhishek Sharma said that the police have registered a case against the fraudsters. The District Administration of Kathua has also detected 65 pilgrims with fake permits at Lakhanpur, which is the entry point into Jammu and Kashmir from Punjab.
Two persons including an elderly woman were rescued by police and fire services after a fire broke out at a sweet shop in Delhis Geeta Colony area on Sunday afternoon, officials said.

There were no immediate reports of any casualties or injuries to anyone in the fire, the official further informed. Officials said that the fire broke out at a sweet shop in Delhis Geeta Colony area.

On receiving information, several fire tenders were rushed to the spot and went about dousing the fire.

The exact cause behind the fire could not be ascertained.

A viral video showed police carrying a man to an ambulance with smoke billowing out of the commercial establishment.

More details are awaited

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The Haryana government has introduced a Unique Disability Identity Card (UDID) for persons with disabilities to help them get access to benefits of government schemes and employment opportunities.

Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities, Raj Kumar Makkar on Sunday announced the implementation of the UDID from 1 July in the state. He said this initiative is designed to protect and uphold the rights of persons with disabilities (Divyangjans).

Makkar said it is now mandatory for Divyangjans to obtain a UDID card in order to access government benefits and employment opportunities.

Speaking to reporters in Bhiwani today, Makkar said low-floor buses have been introduced within the campuses of Maharshi Dayanand University, Rohtak and Kurukshetra University.

This initiative aims to facilitate easy movement for Divyangjans, ensuring they would face no inconvenience. Furthermore, the state government has entered into agreements with three corporate sector companies to promote employment opportunities for persons with disabilities, he added.

Makkar said that Divyangs belonging to Group-C and Group-D, recruited through the Common Entrance Test (CET) in the state, will receive their reservation rights as per the provisions.

As a precautionary measure against fraudulent practices, the recruitment process will include a thorough reassessment of Divyang certificates.

In the event that any deficiencies are identified during the initial evaluation, individuals will have the opportunity to appeal at the Panchkula headquarters. A dedicated team of three doctors will conduct a re-evaluation to ensure that Divyang individuals are not unjustly denied their rightful privileges, Makkar said. Advertisement

He said the state government is actively addressing the long-standing backlog of employment opportunities for Divyangjans, which had previously caused them to be deprived for years.

Makkar said the government is committed to providing transparent benefits to persons with disabilities. He said as part of this commitment, Divyangjans in the state will be exempted from the online transfer policy and will be posted in their respective home districts, allowing them to serve with greater dedication.
A journalist associated with a regional news channel was abducted, beaten up severely and then shot at in Madhya Pradeshs Gwalior district on Saturday. He, however, managed to flee and is now undergoing treatment at a hospital.

The victim, identified as Shivam Arya, is resident of Hazira locality in Gwalior. He was reportedly abducted from his home at around 6 a.m. on Saturday.

The kidnappers took him to Shikarpura village and they confined him in a room situated on a hill. They, according to sources, forced him to consume alcohol.

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From Shikarpura, kidnappers drive him to Dabra, a tehsil under Gwalior district located adjacent to Datia district, where he was subjected to further physical assault and abuse.

Later, in the afternoon, one of the kidnappers made a video call to an unknown person. The kidnappers then proceeded to shoot Arya, with the first bullet grazing his temple while second shot struck his thigh. However, while the the kidnapper was reloading the firearm for another round, Arya gathered courage to push one of them aside and ran away from the spot.

After fleeing and covering around one kilometer, he narrated the entire story to a local person. Soon the police was alerted and the journalist was rushed to a nearby hospital for treatment.

According to police, a bullet lodged in his skull was surgically removed and his condition is said to be stable.

Police said that Aryas wife had previously filed a case against one of the young men allegedly involved in the assault. Police suspect that the attackers may have been seeking revenge or attempting to extort money from the journalist.

We have launched an investigation into the matter, and as of now, three suspects have been identified. We are trying to determine the motive behind the crime, said Gwalior SP Rajesh Chandel.
With the Punjab government completing one year of providing 300 units of electricity per month free to each household, Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Sunday said this has not been made possible by taking loans but by checking pilferages and corruption.

In a statement, the CM said the state government had on 1 July last year launched the guarantee to provide free power to the people. He said since then 90 per cent of the households in the state are getting free power and have got zero power bill since July 2022.

Mann said it is a matter of immense pride and satisfaction that along with domestic consumers, the food growers of the country are also getting free and uninterrupted power in the state.

Advertisement The CM said farmers are getting more than eight hours of power supply without any cut. He said the state government has paid a subsidy worth Rs 20,200 Crore to the state-run power distribution company, Punjab State Power Corporation Limited (PSPCL) for the free power supply.

Mann said that this has not been made possible by taking loans, as done by previous governments, but by checking pilferages and corruption. He said due to concerted efforts of the state government supply of coal from Pachwara coal mine that was stopped has been resumed after 2015.

Mann said that earlier governments had stalled supply from this coal mine to mint money illegally from the private thermal plants. He said for the first time in the history of the state, Punjab has a coal stock of 43 days whereas the earlier threat of blackout loomed large in the state during earlier regimes.

The CM said across the country, governments were selling government properties to fetch money but the Punjab government has started a reverse trend by purchasing a private thermal plant. He said industry is being provided uninterrupted power even during the ongoing paddy season.

The CM said the state government is making concerted efforts for making Punjab a power surplus state adding that focus is now being laid to promote green, solar and hydro power in the state.

He also announced that the state government is setting up a 206 Mega Watt (MW) hydro power project in Pathankot on Ravi river to check the pilferage of water. Bhagwant Mann said this water will be used judiciously for irrigating the fields of the state besides generating power.

The CM said that thanks to the efforts of the state government canal water has reached the tail end in villages which has reduced burden on tube wells, thereby considerably saving power and ground water.
Himachal Pradesh governments Rajiv Gandhi Swarozgaar Yojana-2023 (RGSY-2023) is not just a financial assistance program but a catalyst for the overall development and prosperity of Himachal Pradesh, empowering individuals to shape their own success stories and contribute to the states progress.

Stating this, Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu here on Sunday said: Together, we can build a brighter and greener future for Himachal Pradesh, through the power of self-employment and entrepreneurship.

RGSY-2023 aims at promoting self-employment and entrepreneurship among local youth, he said, adding that to facilitate the seamless implementation of the scheme, a corpus fund of Rs 10 crore from the state budget has been allocated. Financial assistance is limited to one person per family, including self, spouse, and minor children.

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The incentives offered under this scheme specifically apply to the Green Field Projects (New Projects), he said, adding that with the RGSY, Himachal envisions a future where self-employment thrives, local entrepreneurship flourishes, and the state experiences robust economic growth.

By supporting green field projects, the scheme paves the way for innovative ideas, cutting-edge technologies, and a sustainable industrial ecosystem, he added.

This impressive feature offers incentives, concessions, and facilities to eligible youth aged 18 to 45 years, empowering them to establish new industrial enterprises within the state, wherein the banks were provided 90 percent of the project cost as term or composite loan while 10 percent is to be contributed by the beneficiary. Women applicants receive a relaxation of 5 years in the upper age limit, he informed.

Under the investment subsidy component of the scheme, eligible applicants can receive a subsidy of 25 per cent of the investment, up to a maximum investment ceiling of Rs 60 lakh in plant and machinery or equipment.

The total project cost, including working capital, should not exceed rupees one crore.

The investment subsidy limit would be 30 percent for Scheduled Castes, and Scheduled Tribes, whereas it would be 35 per cent for women-led enterprises, and Divyangjan beneficiaries.

For the purchase of electric vehicles comprising e-taxi, e-trucks, e-buses, and e-tempo travelers, the quantum of investment subsidy is set at 50 percent for all eligible categories. The eligible components for subsidy differ between the manufacturing and service sectors.

To be eligible for the scheme, applicants must submit a common application form on the RGSY Portal, available on the Departmental website.

The scheme focuses on setting up new industrial enterprises within the state, with a requirement for enterprises to commence commercial production within two years of receiving the first installment of the loan from a bank.

With the implementation of the Rajiv Gandhi Swarozgaar Yojana-2023, the government envisions a thriving ecosystem of self-employment and entrepreneurship in Himachal Pradesh. This scheme not only provides financial support but also encourages the establishment of sustainable industrial enterprises in the state.

The RGSY schemes financial assistance structure emphasizes a collaborative approach, with banks providing the majority of the project cost while the beneficiary contributes margin money. Entrepreneurs are empowered with the flexibility to invest beyond the specified amount, showcasing their commitment and dedication to their ventures.

By promoting self-employment and local entrepreneurship, the government aims to create job opportunities for the youth, boost economic growth, and contribute to the overall development of Himachal Pradesh.
Hours after Ajit Pawar and some other Nationalist Congress Party leaders joined the Maharashtra government, party chief Sharad Pawar said, this is not googly, it is a robbery and that he was worried about the future of those who left the party.

Talking to reporters after his nephew and eight other party leaders rebelled and joined the Shiv Sena-BJP government in Maharashtra, Pawar said he was not worried about what happened and will work to strengthen the party again. He also hinted at action against party leaders Praful Patel and Sunil Tatkare, saying they did not follow their responsibilities. Sharad Pawar said some of those who joined the Shiv Sena-BJP government were facing ED cases.

Ajit Pawar took oath as Deputy Chief Minister. Eight other NCP leaders took oath as ministers.

This is not googly, it is a robbery. It is not a small thing, Sharad Pawar said.

Some of my colleagues have taken a different stand. I had called a meeting of all the leaders on July 6, where some important issue was to be discussed and some changes were to be made within the party but before that meeting, some of the leaders have taken a different stand.

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Sharad Pawar said that in the next two-three days, they will sit with Congress and Uddhav Thackeray to access the situation. Our main strength is the common people, they have elected us.

Apparently referring to Ajit Pawar who faced accusations related to the alleged irrigation scam, Pawar took a dig at BJP and Prime Minister Narendra Modi saying, it is clear that all the charges have been cleared.

Two days ago the PM had said about NCP He had said two things in his statement that NCP is a finished party. He mentioned irrigation complaint and allegations of corruption. I am happy that some of my colleagues have taken oath. From this (joining the NDA government) it is clear that all the charges have been cleared. I am thankful to him, Pawar said.

Sharad Pawar said he had dealt with splits earlier and rejuvenated the party.

This is not a new thing. The party I was leading in 1980 had 58 MLAs, later all left and only 6 MLAs left, but I strengthened the numbers and those who left me lost in their constituencies, he said.

The former Maharashtra Chief Minister said he has been receiving calls from other opposition leaders including Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge and West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee over developments in Maharashtra.

I am receiving several calls from a lot of people, Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge, WB CM Mamata Banerjee and others have called me. I am not worried about whatever happened today. Tomorrow, I will take the blessings of YB Chavan.

He said senior leaders will sit to decide about any action against the rebel leaders.

We will work to strengthen the party again. MLAs and all senior leaders will sit together to decide about any action against the rebel leaders. Being the president, I had appointed Praful Patel and Sunil Tatkare but they did not follow their responsibilities. Therefore, I have to take some action against them, he said.

I will never say that my home has split, this issue is not regarding my home, this is the issue of people. I am worried about the future of those who left. I want to give the credit for this to PM Modi. Two days ago, he had made statements and after that statement, some people started feeling uneasy, some of them were also facing ED actions, he added.

On Monday, the NCP supremo will address a public gathering in former Maharashtra Chief Minister YB Chavans hometown Karad.

Ajit Pawar said earlier they have the numbers.

We have all the numbers, all MLAs are with me. We are here as a party. We have informed all seniors also. The majority is given importance in a democracy. Our party is 24 years old and young leadership should come forward, Ajit Pawar said after taking oath as Deputy Chief Minister.
Jiyarul Molla, a youth Trinamool Congress leader, was shot dead in Basanti, South 24 Parganas district. With this, the total number of pre-poll deaths in the last 24 days has risen to 12 since the polling dates for the forthcoming elections for the three-tier panchayat system were announced on June 8.

The maximum number of casualties has been reported from South 24 Parganas district, with four deaths. Bhangar, an area in the same district, has reported the highest number of casualties, with three deaths.

Initial investigations have revealed that Mollas murder is a result of internal infighting within the ruling Trinamool Congress, which has been evident in the Canning and Basanti areas of South 24 Parganas district since the polling deaths were announced.

Since Saturday evening, pockets of the Fulmalancha area in Basanti have witnessed sporadic clashes between supporters of two factions of the ruling party.

It is reported that when Molla was returning home late Saturday night, he was suddenly surrounded by four to five miscreants on motorcycles. He was shot from close range, and the assailants escaped from the spot.

Local residents rushed him to Canning sub-division hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

According to Trinamool Congress MLA Saokat Molla from Canning (East), Jiyarul was killed by four unknown assassins. It is yet to be known who they were. But I demand that these assassins be identified and action taken against them, he said.

Trinamool Congress MLA Shyamal Mondal from Basanti stated that the murder had no political links.

Meanwhile, around 10 people from both the Indian Secular Front (ISF) and the Trinamool Congress were injured in a fight involving sticks and bricks at Krishnapur area of Chandrakona in West Midnapur.

Five of them, stated to be critical, are undergoing treatment at Chandrakona Hospital. The police force arrived at the scene to handle the situation. The Trinamool Congress alleged that the ISF attacked them without any provocation, and that the incident was fueled by the CPI-M.
Two people were killed and 28 others injured in a mass shooting incident at a block party in Baltimore in the US, CNN reported citing officials.

Nine people were taken to area hospitals for treatment and three of the injured are in critical condition, the report said. People received multiple calls after 12:30 am (local time) and reached the spot. Police found one woman dead and nine people suffering from gunshot injuries, Baltimore Police Acting Commissioner Richard Worley said, according to CNN. Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott called the incident a reckless and cowardly act. He said, This was a reckless, cowardly act that happened here and that has permanently altered many lives and cost two people their lives, according to CNN.

Earlier, Baltimore police spokesperson Lindsey Elridge said that Baltimore police officers are at the site of a mass shooting incident in the South Baltimore area, CNN reported. Elridge said the incident took place in the 800 block of Gretna Avenue.

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Taking to Twitter, Baltimore Police in a tweet stated, Baltimore Police Department is on scene of a mass shooting incident in the 800 blk of Gretna Court in our Southern District. Acting Commissioner Worley and PIO are on scene. Media Staging Area will be located at the intersection of 6th Street and Audrey Avenue.

Earlier in June, at least three people including a woman were killed and five others sustained injuries in a shooting in Kansas City, Missouri, CNN reported.

Police were called to the area near 57th St. and Prospect Ave. around 4:30 am local time on Sunday because initial reports suggested there was a sizable crowd of individuals in a parking lot, it said.

Police later determined five other people had arrived at various hospitals by ambulance or private vehicle with non-life threatening injuries, CNN reported citing an official news release of the police.
The Vadodara Police have initiated a probe after a couple was found dead inside their sixth-floor apartment at a residential colony in the Gotri area of the city.

The bodies were discovered late on Friday night, and the deceased have been identified as Ashish Mane and his wife Aarti. The matter is still under investigation.

The couple leaves behind a two-and-a-half-year-old son, who has been entrusted to the care of Ashishs family. The bodies have been sent for a detailed post-mortem examination at SSG Hospital.

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Preliminary findings from the post-mortem report reveal that Aarti died due to asphyxia and displayed visible marks indicating manual strangulation. The Gotri police, responsible for investigating the case, disclosed that Ashish allegedly killed his wife before taking his own life. The incident took place after 6 p.m. when Ashish, who worked as an executive at a city bank, returned home from work.

The police have registered a case of accidental death and plan to charge Ashish with murder. The investigation is still ongoing as authorities work to uncover the full details surrounding this tragic incident in Gotri.

The police were alerted about the distressing situation when neighbors called for assistance late on Friday evening. Inspector MK Gurjar of Gotri police station stated, The couples toddler son would often visit their neighbors home in the evenings. Following their routine, he went outside through an unlatched door and spent time with them. When the neighbors entered the flat to return the child to his mother, they made the shocking discovery of Ashish hanging and Aartis dead body. They immediately contacted the police. No suicide note has been recovered from the apartment.

Neighbours have provided valuable insights into the couples relationship, revealing that Ashishs suspicious nature had caused marital discord.

According to the neighbors, the couple frequently quarreled as Ashish would often suspect Aarti of being unfaithful. He would lock his wife and child inside the house while he went to work, only unlocking the door upon his return. Close neighbors have mentioned that there were no signs of a fight on Friday evening.
Protests that erupted in France in response to the killing of a 17-year-old by a police officer continued for a fifth night, The New York Times reported. Authorities arrested hundreds of people nationwide overnight Saturday and protesters clashed with police officers in riot gear.

Taking to his Twitter handle, French Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin said that 427 people had been arrested overnight on Saturday. On Friday, more than 1300 people had been detained in France. He further said that 45,000 police officers were deployed nationwide on Saturday evening, a number similar to the night before, according to The New York Times report. A government minister said that the evening was calmer than the recent ones. However, local media reported rioting, looting, and clashes in Marseille, the report said. Gerald Darmanin noted that the number of officers deployed across the nation was not increased and added that more officers were sent to control protesters in Lyon, Grenoble, and Marseille, The New York Times reported. Tensions remained high in France after the funeral of the 17-year-old by a police officer on Tuesday in Nanterre.

The funeral of a French teen, whose shooting by police provoked violent protests across the nation, was held after more than 1300 people were detained overnight on Saturday, CNN reported. The service was held at a mosque in Nanterre, a suburb of Paris, on Saturday afternoon local time.

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Mounia, the mother of the teenager who was shot dead, told France 5 on Friday that she alone held the cop who shot her son, Nahel Merzouk, accountable for his demise. However, the murder has led to widespread damaging unrest and inquiries into whether race played a role in his passing. Meanwhile, French President Emmanuel Macron decided to postpone his state visit to Germany due to intense protests in France.

On Saturday, Frances Interior Ministry said that 1,311 people had been detained following the fourth night of violence, an update on its previous figure. It said 2,560 fires had been reported on public roads, with 1,350 cars burned, and that there had been 234 incidents of damage or fire in buildings, CNN reported. 79 police and gendarmes were injured over the course of Friday night and there were 58 attacks on police and gendarme stations, the Ministry added.
Caleb Willingham, known by his nicknames Double K or Killa K, tragically passed away at the age of 40, leaving fans of the couple mourning and expressing their condolences across the internet. As Tammy grapples with this devastating loss, lets take a closer look at who Caleb Willingham was.

Despite making a solitary appearance on TLCs 1000-Lb. Sisters, Caleb Willinghams relationship with Tammy was showcased during this particular episode, providing viewers with a glimpse of their wedding ceremony documented on camera.

The couples journey began during their shared stay at the Windsor Lane Rehabilitation Center in Gibsonburg, Ohio, lasting approximately 14 months. Tammy sought treatment to address her weight issues in preparation for bariatric surgery, while Caleb was undergoing treatment for obesity. It was within the walls of this facility that their paths intertwined, forming a deep connection that would lead to their future together.

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In October, Caleb proposed to Tammy, and the couple sealed their love in a small and intimate ceremony the following month, held at the rehabilitation center itself. Their wedding day was a testament to their commitment to one another, surrounded by the support of their loved ones.

While few reports have hinted at a possible estrangement between Caleb and Tammy leading up to his passing, specific details regarding the circumstances remain unclear. May marked a parting of ways for the couple, although the reasons behind this decision have not been explicitly disclosed.

Tammy confirmed the heartbreaking news of her husbands death through a statement, expressing her profound devastation and sorrow. She described Caleb as her best friend and expressed her deep love for him. In a heartfelt tribute on Instagram, the reality star shared a series of photographs capturing tender moments, where Tammy and Caleb were seen embracing each other with genuine smiles while seated at a table.

As Tammy Slaton and her loved ones mourn the loss of Caleb Willingham, their cherished memories and the love they shared will forever remain in their hearts.
Television personality Tammy Slaton recently made headlines as she confirmed the tragic passing of her husband. While Tammy is often known for her unique takes on various topics, entertaining videos, and TV appearances, today as the spotlight shines on her during this sombre moment, lets take a closer look at who Tammy Slaton truly is.

Tammy first stepped into the world of reality TV during the inaugural season of the show in 2020, alongside her sister Amy Slaton. She has been incredibly candid and transparent about her weight loss journey on the show 1000-Lb Sisters. However, there is still much more to Tammys story that she doesnt often share.

Before her starring role on 1000-Lb Sisters brought her into the homes of millions of fans, Tammy had lived a life filled with interesting and challenging experiences. In a revealing interview, she disclosed that her childhood was far from easy. Tammy fondly recalled that her mother, who worked three jobs, was always busy, resulting in Tammy and Amy being raised by their grandmother.

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During the first season of 1000-Lb Sisters, Tammy and Amy provided viewers with an intimate glimpse into their lives as two women from Kentucky living with obesity. Amy courageously shared her battle with diabetes, while Tammy faced other medical conditions and even found herself on life support twice. Despite their weight-related struggles, Amy managed to achieve her weight loss goals and start a family of her own.

Although Tammy has gained popularity on platforms like Instagram and TikTok, her initial rise to fame can be attributed to her YouTube channel. Originally featured in Amys videos, Tammy launched her own channel in 2018. Since then, she has shared a plethora of videos, allowing fans to gain deeper insights into her life and experiences.

Tammys love story took an unexpected turn when she met Caleb Willingham at a rehabilitation facility. Their connection was so strong that Caleb proposed to Tammy in the parking lot of the treatment center the following October. The couple then exchanged vows at the very location, celebrating their union with an intimate gathering of loved ones.

As Tammy Slaton navigates this difficult time, her devoted fans stand by her side, offering support and comfort during this period of grief.
You may have heard of people finding love and tying the knot in unconventional ways, but how far can one go? No, were not talking about lavish weddings in exotic locations like Rajasthan or Goa. Imagine falling in love with an alligator and actually getting married to it. Yes, it might sound unbelievable, but its a true story. In an extraordinary event from Central America, a mayor from Mexico has exchanged vows with an alligator. As this news piques your curiosity about this local representative, lets delve into more details about him.

In a remarkable display of cultural tradition and unity, Victor Hugo Sosa, the mayor of San Pedro Huamelula, a town nestled within the Tehuantepec isthmus of Mexico, has partaken in an extraordinary wedding ceremony. In this enchanting event, Sosa embarked on a sacred union with a female reptile named Alicia Adriana, symbolizing an ancestral ritual.

Amidst the joyful cheers and lively dances of onlookers, the mayor of this small southern Mexican town exchanged vows with a caiman, a marsh-dwelling reptile akin to an alligator, known to inhabit Mexico and Central America. As the celebratory dance gradually subsided, the mayor, assuming the role of the Chontal king, bestowed a gentle kiss upon his scaly partners snout, sealing their promise of eternal happiness. Following the wedding, the mayor and his reptilian bride swayed to the enchanting melodies of traditional music, evoking a sense of blissful unity.

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We rejoice in the amalgamation of two cultures. The people are content, expressed Sosa, reflecting on the significance of the union. Notably, this ritual carries profound symbolism, representing peace and harmony between the Indigenous Chontal and Huave communities residing in southern Mexico.

Assuming the persona of the Chontal king, the mayor embraced this union with the reptile, personifying the revered princess girl from local folklore. Throughout the ceremony, the mayor passionately affirmed his devotion and love, underscoring the essence of these emotions in a marital bond. I wholeheartedly accept this responsibility because we share a profound love. That is what truly matters. Love is the foundation of any marriage I willingly enter into matrimony with the princess girl, ardently declared Mayor Victor Hugo Sosa during the ritual, embodying a deep commitment to this unique and symbolic union.
Severe thunderstorms are possible in the Montreal region through midnight. More showers and storms are forecast on Sunday as the muggy weather persists, however the storms should be lower in coverage and intensity.


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King of the Netherlands apologizes for country's role in slavery on 150th anniversary of abolition

King Willem-Alexander of the Netherlands has apologized for his countrys role in slavery and asked forgiveness on the anniversary of the abolition of slavery in Dutch colonies
SusheelKumar wrote:

I'm in a bit of a pickle here, guys. Both schools seem great to me. I'm a 32-year-old male Indian based in the middle East (UAE-Dubai), I've been working here in the retail sector for 7 years, specifically in distribution. Post MBA: similar industry or Amazon. Open to exploring other areas. Location : Europe or UK.



I am leaning towards IMD because of the program structure and leadership focus. Also, I have a basic level knowledge of french and intend to build up on it. Not sure if that's really a strong positive though. My intention is to work in EU/UK for a few years then head back to Dubai. A big factor to consider is the fees, IMD costs a lot more (108k$ compared to SDA 70k$) . What do you think ?

Posted from my mobile device

IMD is more established and better known, especially amongst recruiters.I haven't heard much about Bocconi but an alum once told me that they selectively contacted their grads for the employment surveys in order to boost their rankings in short time. Something to check is whether Bacconis employment report is 3rd party audited. There's a company that does it globally and they list the schools on the website. I recall IMD was on it.Good luck.
GREENSBORO  One person was hospitalized overnight after a shooting near Bywood Road and Phillips Avenue, Greensboro police said in a news release.
Now that the prime minister has come out and batted for the Uniform Civil Code on the front foot, it is no longer a theoretical debate. The immediate responses have been along predictable linesright-wing supporters of the BJP have defended it, and the religious orthodoxy and the political opposition have flayed it.

The blanket opposition to the push for a common family law is a short-sighted and ill-advised response. And, in fact, the more the opposition allies with conservative religious bodies, with mostly archaic ideas about sexuality and gender rights, the more it would help the ruling party.

A uniform civil code is a directive principle of the Constitution. It had the support of the great architects of modern India, including Nehru, Ambedkar and Ram Manohar Lohia. Its philosophical essence is equality.

Illustration: Bhaskaran

A uniform civil code is not a Hindu civil code; nor does it mean the homogenisation of culture, faith or rituals. At its heart, a well-drafted UCC should simply be a law that protects the equality of all citizens. Indians would still be free to profess, propagate and practise their own religionsanother constitutionally enshrined fundamental rightas long as these tenets did not violate a fundamental principle of equality.

In general, personal laws of all faiths, especially as interpreted by the clergy of that particular religion, can often militate against women. A uniform civil code is an opportunity for Indias feminist movement to reframe the conversation around equality within the framework of the Constitution.

Not everyone who supports the idea of a uniform civil code is making a political affiliation. In the past, individuals as varied as musician T.M. Krishna and author Nilanjana Roy drafted their own talking points, for what they called a progressive uniform civil code. Both happen to be staunch critics of the Modi government.

Instead of rejecting the very idea of the uniform civil code and ceding the entire space of its debate to the BJP, the opposition, as well as religious bodies, should engage strenuously on what such a code looks like. Goa, which has long had a uniform civil code, can be an educative example for a robust public debate on what has worked and what has not.

The debate around the uniform civil code can, in fact, be used to demand the strengthening of the Special Marriage Act, a civil law that permits union of interfaith couples. Right now, the act remains shackled by bureaucratic hurdles. The UCC debate actually allows a strong counter to those who classify every Hindu-Muslim union as an example of what BJP leaders call Love Jihad.

Sure, the BJP is bound to bring its own ideas of such a code to the debate. But, if civil rights groups, opposition parties and religious groups decline to be part of this discussion, it would be an own goal.

The resistance to the UCC, as well as the support for it, should be focused on what the details of such a code might look like. And there are drafts that have been prepared by the Law Commission in the past that could be a starting point.

The Uniform Civil Code should be seen for what it isa constitutional ideal.

editor@theweek.in
I really cannot pinpoint when I fell in love with ikat textiles, but I know it has been a rather long affair. I think most of the world is in love with ikat, and probably does not even know it.

Ikat on home textiles and saris is a timeless trend. Its peaks and valleys, almost always in pretty pastels, are found in the most luxurious homes and, thanks to its easy availability, in humbler homes, too. It can be vivid and decorative, or subtle and sophisticated, and thus has an unending demand.

Ikatwhich means to tie, to bundle, or to knot in multiple languages such as Indonesian and even Urdu (ikattha, to gather)is probably our most ancient example of globalisation. It is probably 6,000 years old (literally the Stone Age). It is accepted to have originated in mainland Asia and travelled westward to Central Asia, to countries like Uzbekistan and Iran, and even to Guatemala, Mexico and Argentina.

Gujarats double ikat, Patan Patola

There are three countries where it still thrivesIndia, Indonesia and Japan.

For its ancient origin, ikat is actually a rather complex way of dyeing cloth. It is unlike other textiles, where either the yarn is dyed in a single colour before weaving into cloth, or first woven into cloth and then dyed. Ikat involves dyeing the yarn in multiple, pre-decided colours, so that they may form a pattern when woven into cloth. A bunch of threads is tied together with a rubber strip, to function as a resist, and then dipped in a dye to get the desired colour. The bands are relocated constantly for each colour dye. The result is a complex, geometric grid or multiple colours dancing on the cloth.

In India, ikat is the speciality of three areas. Gujarats Patan village, near Surat, is renowned for a double ikat called the Patan Patola. The double ikat is where the warp and the weft of the cloth are dyed separately to form the pattern (a single ikat sees only the weft, or the horizontal weave, being dyed). The double ikat is also found in a cluster of villages in and around Pochampally, now in Telangana. Sonia Gandhis favourite textile is the double ikatthe oil-dipped telia rumalfrom this region. Odisha is famous for the single ikat. Odia ikats, according to textile researcher and curator Savitha Suri, are more curvilinear thanks to the influence of Jagannath styles of Hinduism. Ikats were first made in Chirala, then Andhra, and the Nizam of Hyderabad brought them closer to the Pochampally cluster. Here you can see the Islamic influences, no parrots and elephants, but just pointy, geometric shapes, she explains.

The Aditya Birla Groups Aadyam Handwoven has taken up Pochampally ikat as one of its pet projects. Their stores in Mumbai, Delhi and Hyderabad celebrate contemporary colours in the Pochampally ikat. We started with Pochampally for its complex geometrical design language that makes it region-agnostic and has a global appeal, Manish Saksena, lead advisor at Aadyam, tells me. He has invited me to visit the villages where his artisans laboriously make these magical, dancing tie-dyes. Their varying thread counts lend to furnishings as well as saris, he says. Aadyam encourages weavers to learn the economics of the business, teaching them to price their work according to suitable markups. This way they are encouraged to be entrepreneurs, not just producers, he says.

This is key, as despite the international allure and reach of ikat, the artisan still lives a meagre life.
Russia witnessed a Wagners opera last week. Richard Wagner, if you dont know, was a German composer whose musical dramas were noted for their massive scale and intense emotions. The owner-commander of the private army that threatened to march on Moscow is said to have named his band Wagner Army after his radio call sign during his service in the Chechen war. Luckily for Russia, Europe and the world, what would have been a tragedy ended up as a farce, thanks to Belarus supremo Aleksander Lukashenko.

Russia and Belarus are like Hanuman and Jambavan. Hanuman was cursed by Rishi Trnabindu to forget his strength till someone reminded him. Jambavan performed this role with a pep talk when Hanuman was hesitating to leap to Lanka across the sea. This columnist wrote so a quarter century ago, when Lukashenko was urging Boris Yeltsin to stop being meek before the west and show Russias strategic heft. The mythological metaphor earned me a vodka drink with Belaruss first ambassador to India Vladimir Sakalousky, who patiently listened to my drunken drivel disguised as puranic punditry.

Look at how those morale-booster doses from Belarus have worked on Russia. Russia is now on a rampage in Europe, much like Hanuman in Lanka with his tail afire.

Fighters of wagner private mercenary group in Rostov-on-Don, Russia | Reuters

Do we have lessons from the farce of force that was staged in Europe? We dont have private armies today, but had quite a few during the Mughal decline in the 18th century, raised by fortune-hunting freebooters like Walter Reinhardt, his more famous wife Begum Samru, James Skinner, Paolo Avitabile, Benoit de Boigne and more. They roamed across Hindustan like the Pindaris, renting out their battalions to the feuding native princes. Some of them carved out little kingdoms and reigned over them, as did Irishman Raja George Thomas in Hansi, Haryana. With the rise of the British as the paramount power in India, the mercenaries lost their relevance and withered away.

Well-armed groups rose similarly in some of the ex-Soviet republics after the break-up of the USSR, when the rule of law broke down in many of them. Oil, banking, mining, manufacturing and transport tycoons began hiring armed private guards to protect their assets from jobless brigands that roamed the hinterland. Some of them gradually grew into private armies, armed with even cannons and tanks, with backhand support from the state, as the Wagner wild bunch did under Vladimir Putins patronage. Putin is said to have been using them to get done those dirty jobs that decent armies are loath to do, or Geneva conventions prohibit them from doingkilling civilians, torturing captives, and more.

Where do they get their troops? Easy. Russia has a huge number of ex-troopers who have served their draft term, got demobbed in the prime of their youth, and found themselves jobless. Most of them know only one skillthat is to killand end up enrolling in private armies. Four months ago, Putin announced a scheme to upskill and absorb them in arms factories where he needs more hands to cast more guns for the war in Ukraine.

That should be cause for concern for us. Our Agnipath scheme too will churn out thousands in their prime of youth into the civil street. Luckily, our government is making provisions to skill them in non-kill trades, keeping jobs for them in the police and para-military, getting arms factories and PSUs to absorb them, and is promising them hefty severance purses with which they can open small businesses.

All the same, the Wagner warning should act as a wake-up call, in case anyone in the government is sleeping over these promises.

prasannan@theweek.in
Launching a scathing attack on Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrashekar Rao, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Sunday said his remote control was with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and described the state's ruling party as "BJP's B-Team" and its new nomenclature, BRS, as 'BJP Rishtedar Samithi'.

Gandhi alleged that the corruption charges against Rao and his party's leaders have made them subservient to the BJP, and asserted that he told all other opposition leaders that the Congress would not join any bloc where the BRS (Bharat Rashtra Samithi) was involved.

Addressing a public meeting here, Gandhi said, "BRS is like BJP Rishtedar Samiti. KCR thinks he is a king and Telangana is his kingdom."

Gandhi said the Congress has always stood against the BJP in Parliament, but Rao's party has been "BJP's B-team". "Prime Minister Narendra Modi carries the remote control of Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrashekar Rao," the former Congress chief said.

He said the Congress recently fought the assembly election in Karnataka against "a corrupt and anti-poor government and we defeated them with the support of the poor, OBCs, minorities and oppressed in the state".

"Something similar is going to happen in Telangana. On one side there would be rich and powerful of the state and on the other side, there would be poor, tribals, minorities, farmers and small shopkeepers with us. What has happened in Karnataka, would be repeated in Telangana," Gandhi said.

The Congress leader said earlier it was said that there was a three-way fight between the TRS (Telangana Rashtra Samithi which is now BRS), the Congress and the BJP in Telangana.

"But the BJP does not exist at all in Telangana. Their all four tyres have got punctured. Now it is a fight between Congress and B-Team of BJP," he said.

Referring to the recent attempts to unite the opposition against the BJP for the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, Gandhi said, "We told other opposition leaders if TRS attends the meeting, Congress will not attend it, Congress can't share stage with TRS."

Over a dozen opposition parties recently met in Patna, Bihar, to put up a united front against the BJP and will be meeting again in Bengaluru soon. The BRS and a few other non-BJP parties are not part of this grouping.

Gandhi also described Congress workers as 'babbar sher' (lions) and "backbone" of the party. "With your support, we can defeat the BRS like we did in Karnataka," he told party workers.

"We got a huge support from here (Telangana) during the Bharat Jodo Yatra and I want to thank you all for that," he said.

"During the yatra, we talked about uniting the country. On one hand, we follow an ideology to unite the country and there is another side that is trying to break the country," the Congress leader said.

"The entire country supported the yatra and said they wouldn't allow hatred in this country. Khammam has always supported the Congress as it believes in our ideology. I welcome the leaders who have decided to join the Congress today. But most importantly, I want to thank the workers of the party, who are like our lions (babbar sher)," he said.

The BRS "attacked you all but none of you were scared", he told the party workers.
Opposition parties on Sunday lashed out at the BJP after NCP leader Ajit Pawar and eight others were inducted into the Eknath Shinde-led Maharashtra government, saying the ruling party's "washing machine" has resumed its operations and it can no longer talk about fighting corruption as it has joined hands with tainted leaders.

Ajit Pawar, who split the NCP and took oath as the deputy chief minister of Maharashtra, said his party decided to join the BJP-Shiv Sena government for the development of the country and praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership.

Reacting to the development, Congress general secretary Jairam Ramesh said, "Clearly the BJP's washing machine has resumed its operations. A number of new entrants into the BJP-led alliance in Maharashtra today had been facing serious corruption charges with ED, CBI and Income Tax authorities after them. Now they have all got a clean chit."

The Congress will intensify its efforts to free Maharashtra from the clutches of the BJP, Ramesh asserted.

The Congress is part of the Maha Vikas Aghadi alliance that also comprises Shiv Sena (UBT) and Sharad Pawar-led NCP.

"The oath-taking ceremony in Maharashtra was part of Operation Lotus and it has no official support of NCP. Those who took oath, it is their personal decision and not that of the NCP," Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) spokesperson Mahesh Tapase said.

After inducting "corrupt men" as ministers, the BJP and Prime Minister Narendra Modi cannot talk about fighting corruption, senior TMC leader Babul Supriyo, who was earlier a minister in the Modi government and had switched from the BJP, said.

Calling the BJP "hypocrite", Supriyo, a minister in the Mamata Banerjee government in West Bengal, said tainted leaders under the scanner of ED for corruption have been put into a "washing machine" manufactured by the BJP to remove their stains and blemishes.

Shiv Sena (UBT) Rajya Sabha leader Priyanka Chaturvedi tweeted, "Principles be damned, BJP should be the last party in the country talking about ideological alliances. They are just political opportunists wanting power at any cost. With the latest development in Maharashtra, those MLAs who were corrupt and were jailed are now being sworn in as ministers!"

Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav claimed that Maharashtra has emerged as a "bigger laboratory" for the BJP after Madhya Pradesh and the saffron party will do other "experiments" in the run-up to 2024 general elections to stay in power

"BJP does this from time to time, first they did this in Madhya Pradesh, and then in Maharashtra, but people are watching this," Yadav told reporters in Lucknow.

AAP leader Atishi said that BJP has declared openly now that all the corrupt should come to its fold and get "cleaned off their sins in its washing machine".

Congress leader Rashid Alvi said, "The BJP and PM Modi have violated the Constitution. It (Ajit Pawar joining the Maharashtra government) is the biggest joke on democracy. Rajiv Gandhi brought anti-defection law while Atal Bihari Vajpayee increased the number of MLAs (to change the party) to 2/3rd, so this is an insult to Vajpayee as well."

Former Maharashtra chief minister Ashok Chavan said the Shinde government was resorting to taking help from MLAs of other parties because of its own instability.

"After the opposition parties' meeting in Patna, they (BJP) are afraid, and that's why they want to break opposition parties," said DMK leader TKS Elangovan.

Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut claimed it was the beginning of the process of Eknath Shinde losing his chief minister's post.

RJD leader Mritunjay Tiwari also said the BJP has engineered the defection to save its government in Maharashtra.

PDP chief Mehbooba Mufti said no words are enough to condemn the manner in which the BJP has repeatedly undermined the popular mandate in Maharashtra.

"Not only is democracy being butchered but they are using the national anthem to provide cover for such disgraceful actions. On one hand, BJP is arresting political opponents on trumped-up corruption charges while they themselves are on an MLA purchasing spree. Hard-earned public money is being misused to quench BJP's thirst for power," she alleged.

In a swipe, Rajya Sabha MP Kapil Sibal tweeted, "I guess this is the mother of democracy that Modiji was talking about in his address to the US Congress!"

"BJP doesn't believe in people's power, they only believe in politics of defections (jod-tod ki rajniti) and this time they will get a big shock," JD (U) president Rajiv Ranjan Singh alias Lalan Singh said.

BJP spokesperson R P Singh, however, said, "India is developing rapidly and this is happening only because of PM Modi. Ajit Pawar knows this very well and that's why he decided to join hands with us."

Union Minister Ramdas Athawale said Ajit Pawar was unhappy in the Opposition for a long time.

"Ajit Pawar's decision to join the NDA is a 'dashing decision' and this is a huge setback for Sharad Pawar," he added.
Does North Carolina need a new state flag?

Yes, say two North Carolina State University students, Wyat Hamilton and Adam Fleischer.

Last week, they told the Raleigh News & Observer that the current flag leaves people feeling apathetic.

Fleischer said, Were trying to bring more pride to the people of North Carolina, trying to up their excitement about being here and being a part of our state and our culture.

The current state flag is familiar to many North Carolinians. It consists of a horizontal red stripe over a white stripe and, at the hoist, a vertical blue stripe incorporating a white star, the initials of the state (NC), and two ribbons, each with a date inscribed.

Hamilton and Fleischer believe the use of text makes the design busy and difficult to read and suggest instead that symbols of the state should be used rather than text.

They criticize using the textual dates referencing the Mecklenburg Declaration of Independence and the Halifax Resolves. They say the flags use of text makes the design busy and difficult to read from afar, and instead of offering symbols tied to the state, it must literally spell out what it aims to represent.

They also criticized the big NC on the flag. Although the initials clearly identify the flag as North Carolinian, Hamilton is still critical. Suffice to say, if you have to remind yourself of what your name is by putting your initials on the state flag, your symbolism has failed.

One flag that seems to meet their criteria to a tee is South Carolinas. It features only a crescent and a palmetto tree on a blue background. No words. Nothing else. Most South Carolinians know that the tree represents a Revolutionary fort built with palmetto logs and the crescent represents the shape of a badge worn by soldiers at the fort.

What images or symbols do they suggest for North Carolina? They have presented stylized versions of our wonderful coastal lighthouses and suggested one of them would be good for the flag. Also, they introduced an eight-pointed star used by American militia at the Battle of Guilford Courthouse during the American Revolution.

Other than a stylized lighthouse or an eight-pointed star, what distinctive North Carolina images would be a good fit for a new North Carolina flag?

People in Charlotte might argue that a hornets nest in the middle of the flag would be distinctive. It would be firmly based on the historical resistance that North Carolinians gave against Cornwalliss British troops during the Revolution.

Mountain folk could argue that an image of Grandfather Mountain on the flag would represent something special about our state.

Coastal residents might push for an image of Virginia Dare arguing that most North Carolinians would identify the connection to The Lost Colony.

Or they might suggest an image of the Wright Brothers flying machine that made the first successful powered flight on our states Outer Banks.

NASCAR fans would say a racing stock car on the flag would be recognized as a symbol of the state. Others might argue that a moonshine bottle might be a better symbol.

Looking back just a few years ago, there would be people who would want to use the image of a cured tobacco leaf. Today, they might argue for another popular weed.

North Carolinas official toast begins, Heres to the land of the long leaf pine, The summer land where the sun doth shine, Where the weak grow strong and the strong grow great.

If we need to have a flag with a single, simple image on our flag, I would vote for the long leaf pine.

But, notwithstanding the good arguments made by Hamilton and Fleischer, I like our current flag and hope we keep it.
The recent heavy rains has left many low-lying areas water-logged in Gujarat creating a flood-like situation. Reportedly, regions including Kutch, Jamnagar, Junagadh and Navsari was severely affected due to flash floods.

National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) was deployed for all necessary relief and rescue operations.

According to State Emergency Operations Centre (SEOC), at least nine people in the last two days in rain-related incidents in Gujarat.

Union Minister Amit Shah reviewed the situation and spoke to Gujarat CM Bhupendra Patel. He assured Centre's all help.

"Due to the heavy rains in Gujarat, the government is fully engaged in providing all possible help to the people affected by the flood-like situation in many places. I talked to the Chief Minister Shri @Bhupendrapbjp ji and inquired about the situation. NDRF and SDRF teams and local administration are engaged in helping people in these areas. The Central Government and the State Government are standing with the people in this difficult time," said Shah in a tweet in Hindi.

                               @Bhupendrapbjp         NDRF  SDRF           Amit Shah (@AmitShah) July 2, 2023

India Meteorological Department (IMD) predicted light to moderate rainfall over the next 24 hours in Gujarat.

Meanwhile, IMD on Sunday predicted 'heavy to very heavy' rainfall across India including Rajasthan, Haryana, Punjab, Chhattisgarh, Delhi and Mumbai.

A significant warning during the next five days across the country, as active monsoon season is expected heavy rains in many places.

IMD predicted light rain in Delhi till July 6. "A yellow alert is in place for moderate rainfall on July 5 and 6. Before that, most places will receive drizzle to light rain," an official was quoted by The Hindustan Times.

Till July 6, Uttarakhand is expected to experience isolated heavy to very heavy rainfall till July 6. Due to heavy rains, the Badrinath highway in Uttarakhand's Chamoli district has been shut for the last 13 hours at Lambagad and Khachada drains. The NHAI is working to reopen the roads as quickly as possible.

The eastern region of Uttar Pradesh will experience heavy rainfall from July 4-6, while the western UP is likely to witness isolated heavy rainfall on July 5 and 6.

Widespread rainfall is predicted across central India for the next five days. Chances of isolated heavy rainfall are high in Chhattisgarh till July 6.

East Madhya Pradesh and Vidarbha are likely to encounter isolated heavy rainfall on July 5 and 6, IMD added.

Andra Pradesh and south Karnataka is likely to receive isolated heavy rainfall from July 3-6. For the next five days, heavy rains is expected to lash in Karnataka, Tamil Nadu and Kerala as well.
The unexpected split in the Nationalist Congress Party set off a mini earthquake in not only Maharashtra politics but also sent aftershocks at a national level. Here are some key takeaways from Sunday's development:

Questions over opposition unity: Ajit Pawar leaving his uncle and NCP supremo Sharad Pawar high and dry to join the Eknath Shinde-led government has severely dented the opposition unity move of 15 parties, which took tentative steps with a meeting in Patna last month.

But even before Sunday's blow, the unity efforts were marred by differences among major players. Among them are the open hostility between AAP and Congress as well as the barbs exchanged between TMC and Congress in West Bengal.

In Kerala too, the Congress and the CPM do not see eye to eye. Ajit Pawar's move severely undercuts the unity efforts that opposition leaders hope will collectively pose a challenge to the Narender Modi-led BJP in the 2024 general elections.

BJP resurgence in Maharashtra: Ajit Pawar's decision to join hands with BJP and Shinde-led Shiv Sena ensures that BJP is once again in the driver's seat in Maharashtra, after being briefly sidelined.

It is now in a position to create a formidable alliance, which can boost its stranglehold over the state during the Lok Sabha elections.

The development also all but ends any edge that the MVA comprising Uddhav Thackery-led Shiv Sena (UBT), Sharad Pawar's NCP and the Congress had. The new alliance represents a formidable electoral control over different regions of Maharashtra.

Congress isolated: According to sources, Ajit Pawar's supporters were irked by Sharad Pawar and Supriya Sule sharing the stage with Rahul Gandhi in Patna and their willingness to accept his apex role.

This, and the spat between the Congress and powerful regional parties, raises the question of whether popular regional leaders will accept Gandhi's leadership in the opposition coalition.

Diminished role of Sharad Pawar: Long considered a wily politician who never failed to pull a rabbit out of the hat, it appears that he was outsmarted by the political play crafted by the BJP with the help of Ajit Pawar. This leaves him greatly weakened. His strategy and views will become clearer on Monday when he is scheduled to speak in public.
In a surprising turn of events, Nationalist Congress Party leader Ajit Pawar pulled off a stunning revolt and joined hands with the ruling Shiv Sena-BJP alliance in Maharashtra at a time when party supremo Sharad Pawar is making efforts to form an opposition front against the BJP ahead of the 2024 Lok Sabha elections.

Ajit took oath as the deputy chief minister while eight other NCP leaders, some of whom are close aides of Sharad Pawar, took oath as ministers in the Eknath Shinde government.

Maintaining that there was no split in the NCP, Ajit said the entire party has supported his decision and that he would contest all future elections on the NCP symbol. "All the elected representatives (of the party) have supported the decision to join the government, he said.

Defending the move, Ajit said: "If we can go with the Shiv Sena, then we can go with the BJP as well. The same thing happened in Nagaland as well."

Ajit also heaped praise on Prime Minister Narendra Modi and said the country is on the path of progress under his leadership.

Everyone supports him (Modi) and appreciates his leadership. We will fight the upcoming Lok Sabha and Assembly elections with them (BJP) and that is why we have taken this decision," he said.

Sources close to Ajit claimed he has the support of more than 40 MLAs and more than six MLCs. A letter of support of these legislators was given to Raj Bhavan, they added. NCP has 53 MLAs and nine MLCs.

Senior NCP leader Jayant Patil, however, countered the claims and said the party is not supporting the BJP in any form. Those who didn't follow our orders and became ministers, we don't have anything to do with them," he said.

Patil said Sharad Pawar has called a meeting of party leaders on July 5 in Mumbai to discuss the developments and the future course of action.

"NCP as a party doesn't support the Eknath Shinde-BJP government. Many of the MLAs who have signed the letter of support to the government, called me saying that they were confused and will always back Sharad Pawar," he said.

Patil further said that some leaders in the party would often demand that the party go with the BJP, but the party's top leadership never approved of it.

The newly-appointed Leader of Opposition in the Maharashtra Assembly Jitendra Awhad of the NCP also said the number of party MLAs with Ajit will be clear once Sharad Pawar starts "calling up" legislators.

The dramatic turn of events, however, has come as a shocker to Sharad Pawar who, while trying to put up a brave face, said: "This is not a googly but robbery.

Long considered a wily politician who never failed to pull a rabbit out of the hat, Sharad Pawar, however, was outsmarted by the political play crafted by the BJP with the help of Ajit. His strategy and views will become clearer on Monday when he is scheduled to speak in public.

The NCP veteran also said he was not upset with anyone for party MLAs joining the Maharashtra government, but with Praful Patel, who has been his close aide for decades, for "abandoning" the guidelines of the party president and taking a wrong path. Patel was was present at the Raj Bhavan and seated next to Ajit at the latter's news conference.
Nationalist Congress Party supremo Sharad Pawar on Sunday indicated that action would be taken against his nephew Ajit Pawar and other party leaders who joined the ruling dispensation in a big political coup earlier in the day. Ajit took oath as the deputy chief minister, while eight MLAs of the NCP took oath as ministers in the Eknath Shinde-led government in Maharashtra.

"Those who violated the party line and took oath, a decision has to be taken on them," Pawar said, adding that his endeavour after this development would be to travel as much as possible within state and the country, and build relations with people.

"Today's episode (on his party MLAs joining the Shinde government) may be new for others, but not for me," he said, referring to the situation in 1980.

The party I was leading in 1980 had 58 MLAs, later all left and only 6 MLAs left, but I strengthened the numbers and those who left me lost in their constituencies, he said.

Taking a swipe at Ajit and other leaders including Chhagan Bhujbal, Dilip Walse-Patil and Hasan Mushrif, Pawar said some party leaders were nervous about probes by the Enforcement Directorate.

"Two days ago the PM had spoken about NCP... He had said two things in his statement -- that NCP is a finished party. He mentioned irrigation complaint and allegations of corruption. I am happy that some of my colleagues have taken oath. From this, it is clear that all the charges have been cleared. I am thankful to him," he said.

Pawar has called a meeting of the party leaders on Monday to discuss what action could be taken against the rebels.

Being the president, I had appointed Praful Patel and Sunil Tatkare but they did not follow their responsibilities. Therefore, I have to take some action against them, said the NCP supremo.

He further said that the NCP's main strength is the people. In the next two-three days, we will sit with Congress and Uddhav Thackeray to access the situation, he added.

Pawar said he has been getting calls from several opposition leaders ever since the political developments in the state.

I am receiving several calls from a lot of people, Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge, West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee and others have called me. I am not worried about whatever happened today. Tomorrow, I will take the blessings of YB Chavan (former Maharashtra CM) and will hold a public meeting, Pawar said.
In a political coup, NCP leader Ajit Pawar split the party on Sunday to join the NDA Government in Maharashtra. Pawar, who arrived at the Raj Bhavan in the afternoon with Maharashtra chief minister Eknath Shinde, took oath as the deputy chief minister, a post he will now share with BJP's Devendra Fadnavis.

Pawar switched sides along with nine NCP MLAs, reported PTI. The party has a total of 53 NCP MLAs in the state and according to the BJP, it now has the backing of over 40 MLAs.

#WATCH | NCP leader Ajit Pawar takes oath as Maharashtra Deputy CM in the presence of CM Eknath Shinde and Deputy CM Devendra Fadnavis pic.twitter.com/3l3p1Fi9nB  ANI (@ANI) July 2, 2023

Besides Pawar, NCP leaders Chhagan Bhujbal, Dilip Walse Patil, Hasan Mushrif, Dhananjay Munde and Anil Patil also took oath as ministers in the Shinde government. "Almost the entire NCP will be joining," BJP leader and Maharashtra minister Sudhir Mungantiwar told ANI ahead of the oath-taking ceremony.

Maharashtra Assembly Speaker Rahul Narwekar, who was present in the Raj Bhawan, said Ajit Pawar has resigned as the leader of the opposition (LoP) in the Lower House and the resignation has been accepted. Deputy Speaker Narhari Zirwal and NCP working president Praful Patel were also present in the Raj Bhawan.

Elections to the 288-member state Assembly are due next year.

Though Ajit Pawar has not yet publicly clarified his actions, an ANI report quoted sources that the MLAs accompanying Ajit Pawar to Raj Bhawan were upset with NCP supremo Sharad Pawar's 'unilateral' decision to share the stage and ally with Rahul Gandhi at the opposition unity meet in Bihar's Patna last month.

Ajit Pawar had recently claimed he was not keen on continuing as the Leader of the Opposition.

Earlier the day, Pawar had met some NCP workers at his official residence in Mumbai, a meeting which Sharad Pawar claimed to have no clue about. Sharad Pawar, who is in Pune, defended Ajit by stating that as a leader of the opposition (LoP) in the Maharashtra Assembly, can call a meeting of legislators.

Besides Bhujbal, the party's working president Supriya Sule was among the leaders present at the meeting held at Ajit Pawar's official residence 'Devgiri'.

Sharad Pawar 'undeterred'

Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut on Saturday said NCP President Sharad Pawar is undeterred by the split in his party and can start afresh.

In a tweet, Raut said, "I just spoke with NCP Sharad Pawar. He said he is firm and people's support is behind us. We can make a fresh start with Uddhav Thackeray. Raut said people of Maharashtra will not tolerate such a "circus" for long.

"Some people seem to be determined to completely spoil Maharashtra's politics. Let them proceed on their chosen path," said Raut.
Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has said that 21,000 Wagner mercenaries have been killed fighting in Ukraine. According to the leader, the private military company had suffered enormous losses, particularly in eastern Ukraine where its most powerful group was fighting.



Our troops killed 21,000 Wagnerites in eastern Ukraine alone, Zelensky told CNN and added that 80,000 Wagner fighters had been wounded. Zelenskyy, who distinguished the Wagner fighters as motivated staff of the Russian army and mostly convicts who had nothing to lose, said, These were enormous losses for the Wagner PMC.

Zelenskyy made the comments at a joint press conference with Spanish President Pedro Sanchez. Last week, the Wagner group's head Yevgeny Prigozhin had led members of the group towards Moscow, taking control of military facilities in two Russian cities in a sign of rebellion. Prigozhin is currently in exile in Belarus.

Zelenskyy on Saturday said Prigozhins rebellion had greatly affected Russian power on the battlefield. They are losing the war. They have no more victories on the battlefield in Ukraine, and so they are starting to look for someone to blame, he added. "It is more dangerous for Putin than for me, honestly. Because its only in Russia that they want to kill me, whereas the entire world wants to kill him," the president added.
Tense situation prevailed across France for the fifth consecutive day after the death of the Arab teen Nahel. Amid protests and violence, the 17-year-old was laid to rest in Mont Valerein cemetery in Nanterre on Saturday.

Hundreds gathered on Saturday afternoon to attend the funeral service of Nahel. According to reports, the premises remained calm with no police officials seen nearby cemetery. However, heavy police was deployed in Nanterre, where Nahel was fatally shot by police earlier this week.

Wide protests and unrest spread across the country criticising the France's policing structures and methods after the teen's death.

All filming and even phones were banned for the funeral as the supporters of the family requested the media to keep away.

With another 322 people arrested on Sunday over 2,000 arrests were made so far, said the French Interior Ministry.

In the wake of the protests and riots, a ban was announced on large public events in France on Saturday. With many artists cancelling their trips and shows in France, even the tourism industry was affected. Reportedly, the government is planning to shutdown internet partially to disrupt the riots.

According to the France Interior Ministry, 2,560 fires had been reported on public roads, with 1,350 cars burned. Also 234 incidents of damage to buildings was also reported.

Police hold down a young person during the fifth night of protests following the death of Nahel, a 17-year-old teenager killed by a French police officer in Nanterre during a traffic stop, in the Champs Elysees area, in Paris | Reuters

Around 45,000 police officers and armoured vehicles were deployed on the streets to quell the riots.

Cities including Marseille, Lyon, Toulouse, Strasbourg, Lille and Paris witnessed violence with people burning tires, looting stores, pelting stones on the police personnel and causing destruction to the public properties.

Wide clashes erupted in Marseille on Saturday evening, with the officials arresting 56 people from the city alone. Reportedly, the clashes continued for over an hour in the area between the rioters and police officials.

The Paris region stopped all buses and trams after 12:00 local time (19:00 GMT) for the second night, reported BBC. Special police forces were deployed in Lille to maintain order as well.

Macron postpones his Germany visit

In the wake of the riots, President Emmanuel Macron postponed his three-day visit to Germany.

Macron urged parents to keep their teens at home to quell the spreading riots across France. Macron pointed fingers on the social media encouraging teenagers to adopt copycat violence spreading wide protests.

Widespread looting was reported across the country. According to Finance Minister Bruno Le Maire, 10 shopping malls, over 200 supermarkets, 250 tobacco shops and 250 bank outlets were attacked or looted by the rioters.

"The violence and looting across the nation is totally unacceptable," he said.

Store lootings were rampant with incidents reported in Marseille, Lyon, Grenoble and in many areas in Paris.

The police officer who fired the shot has been charged with murder and is held in pre-trial detention.

Nahel's mother, Mounia in an interview earlier said that "I blame one person, the one who took my son's life," she said. "He saw an Arab face, a little kid. He wanted to take his life."

A state of emergency was declared in 2005 after riots erupted when two boys were shot dead by the police.

The death of Nahel was the third incident of fatal shooting by police in France this year. Last year, there was a record of 13 such shootings.

The office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) on Friday said that the shooting was a "moment for the country to seriously address the deep issues of racism and racial discrimination in law enforcement", reported The Guardian.

Since 2017, most of the victims of the shooting have been black or Arab origin.

Many critics view the French policing as "repressive", which has becomes a major political issue.

Marseille Mayor Benoit Payan called on the national government for deploying additional troops as well. "The scenes of pillaging and violence are unacceptable," he said in a tweet.
The mayor of Paris Vincent Jeanbrun said his home was attacked early Sunday morning after protesters rammed a car into his home. Jeanburn took to Twitter and called the attack an an assassination attempt.



He said his wife and one of his children were hurt in the incident. At 1:30 a.m., while I was at the city hall like the past three nights, individuals rammed their car upon my residence before setting fire to it to burn my house, inside which my wife and my two young children slept, Jeanburn wrote.

He said, it was an attempted murder of unspeakable cowardice. France has been roiled in protests for five days now. A policeman shooting a 17-year-old boy for failing to stop when asked to triggered the protests. Nahel Merzouk was a 17-year-old boy of Algerian descent whose funeral took place on Saturday at a mosque in Nanterre amid a heavy security presence.

Security forces and riot have been deployed across the country. On Saturday, 427 people were detained. The night before that 1,300 people were detained and about 2,560 fires were reported on public roads.

Nahel, who was asked to stop for reckless driving, reportedly had no criminal record. However, there were incidents where he had evaded police checks. Also, he had received a summons to appear before a juvenile court in September.
Ukrainian officials reported more civilian casualties from Russian shelling in the country's east and south on Saturday, as Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez began a visit to Kyiv as a show of continuing support from Madrid and the European Union for Ukraine's fight to dislodge invading Russian forces.



In an address to Ukraine's parliament that received several standing ovations, Sanchez said, We'll be with you as long as it takes.

I am here to express the firm determination of the European (Union) and Europe against the illegal and unjustified Russian aggression to Ukraine, he said on the day that Spain took over the six-month rotating presidency of the 27-nation EU.

At a later news conference with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Sanchez announced Spain would deliver more heavy weaponry to Ukraine including four Leopard tanks and armored personnel carriers, as well as a portable field hospital.

He also said Spain will provide an additional 55 million euros to help with reconstruction needs.

Elsewhere in Ukraine, regional officials reported that at least three civilians were killed and 17 wounded by Russian shelling on Friday and overnight in the front-line eastern Donetsk region, where fierce battles are raging, Donetsk Gov. Pavlo Kyrylenko said.

The Ukrainian General Staff reported that fierce clashes continued in three areas in Donetsk where it said Russia has massed troops and attempted to advance. It named the outskirts of three cities Bakhmut, Lyman and Marinka as front-line hot spots.

Five people including a child were wounded on Friday and overnight in the Kherson region in the south, regional Gov. Oleksandr Prokudin said.

Prokudin said that Russian forces launched 82 artillery, drone, mortar shell and rocket attacks on the province, which is cut in two by a stretch of the 1,500-kilometer (930 mile) front line and still reeling from flooding unleashed by the collapse earlier this month of a major Dnipro river dam.

In the northeastern Kharkiv region, Russian shelling over the previous day wounded a 57-year-old civilian man, said Gov. Oleh Syniehubov. In the Sumy region farther west, a teenage boy was hurt in a strike from across the Russian border, the local military administration reported.

Referring to possible peace talks, Sanchez said that only Ukraine can set the terms and times for peace negotiations. Other countries and regions are proposing peace plans. Their involvement is much appreciated, but, at the same time, we can't accept them entirely.

This is a war of aggression, with an aggressor and a victim. They cannot be treated equally and ignoring the rules should in no way be rewarded. That is why that is why we support President Zelenskyy's peace formula, Snchez added.

Zelenskyy at the news conference expressed frustration about the lack of clarity over Western training for Ukrainian fighter pilots. He said Western allies have not yet set a timetable to train pilots on U.S.-made F-16s despite their expressions of readiness. "I think that some partners are delaying this process, why they do this I have no idea, he said.

He also renewed Ukraine's claim that Russia is prepared to cause a potential nuclear catastrophe at the Moscow-held Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant as Ukraine continues to make steady advances along the front line.

Russia is technically ready to provoke a local explosion at the station that could cause an emission of dangerous substances in the air. We are clearly communicating, we discussed the need with our partners so everyone understands why Russia is doing this, he said.

The introduction of F-16s to the war could give Ukraine a much needed edge over Russia, which currently enjoys air superiority.
New and expanded powers for British police took effect on Sunday, including measures targeting activists who stop traffic and major building works with protests.

Authorities have repeatedly condemned environmental protest groups, including Just Stop Oil and Extinction Rebellion, which have sought to raise awareness about the urgency of climate change by staging multiple high-profile protests at the busiest highways and roads. Their protests in recent years often caused serious disruption for motorists.

From Sunday, police will have powers to move static protests. Critics have argued the toughened laws are a threat to the right to protest, but UK officials say the measures were to stop disruption from a selfish minority.

The public have had enough of their lives being disrupted by selfish protesters. The mayhem we've seen on our streets has been a scandal," Home Secretary Suella Braverman said.

Authorities say that under the new Public Order Act, protesters found guilty of tunnelling or digging underground tunnels to obstruct the building of new infrastructure works could face three years in prison. Anyone found guilty of obstructing a major transportation project could be jailed for up to six months.

Hundreds of protesters were arrested last year in the UK for blocking major roads and bridges. Many activists protested by sitting in the middle of the roads or glueing themselves to the roadway to make them harder to move.

Police have said it's costly to deal with the protests and that they diverted thousands of officers.
A beer retailer in LeMoyne, Pa., has so much Bud Light on his hands that hes having to sell it for less than the price of some bottled water brands.

Andy Wagner, who manages Glenn Millers Beer and Soda, told The New York Times last week that his Bud Light sales were down 45% from a year ago.

Its just not moving like it used to, Wagner said.

But if youre looking for a bargain this July 4, has he got a deal for you: A 30-pack of Miller Lite will cost you $24.99  a 30-pack of Bud Light only $8.99.

The sales tap for Bud Light isnt running dry only in Pennsylvania. Demand has ebbed nationwide. For 20 years the best-selling brand in the nation, the King of Beers has been dethroned. Bud Light has lost the top spot to Modelo Especial, the Times reports.

Bud sales, which totaled more than $5 billion a year ago, have plummeted by 29%.

Since April, the Time reports, Anheuser-Buschs stock price has dropped by more than 15% since April.

As for why? Well, youve probably heard by now.

Three months ago the mega brewer had the nerve to enlist a transgender influencer, Dylan Mulvaney, to promote a Bud Light-related contest.

And before you knew it, an ideological bar fight had broken out.

The hard-right musician Kid Rock posted a video of himself shooting cases of Bud Light with an automatic rifle.

F-k Bud Light and f-k Anheuser-Busch, he said, just in case you didnt get the point.

Now Kid Rock is entitled to his opinion, although he presumably bought all the beer that he executed.

But why such anger and resentment?

You dont like the pitch person, fine. I didnt think Matthew McConaughey was all that impressive in Lincoln commercials. But I didnt go out and shoot a car.

Theres something else going on here  something mean and troubling and its about a lot more than beer preferences.

Same difference with the wave of ugliness and resentment during Pride Month in June, especially at retailers who had the nerve to display special merchandise.

Tweeted one conservative activist: The goal is to make pride toxic for brands.

To those people who find Pride promotions so offensive and threatening I have only one question: Why?

I also ask you to stop and think about what youre doing.

You are demonizing companies for acknowledging, in a small way, that a certain segment of the population exists (with obvious hopes, of course, of making more money in the process).

What harm are they doing to you or your loved ones?

Some of you will say that breweries and retailers should stick to selling stuff and not making social and political statements.

But the fact is that many of them have been making such statements all along to push everything from pickup trucks to soft drinks.

Its just that you dont like this particular message.

The good news is its a free country.

If you dont believe in homosexuality, you dont have to be a homosexual.

If you oppose same-sex marriage, you dont marry someone of the same sex.

And if you find the concept of being transgender objectionable, no ones compelling you to become transgender.

You are free to be who you are. At least you should be.

Some of you may respond that you dont like these images being forced on you.

But the overwhelming majority of marketing and advertising in this nation remains centered on heterosexual males and females.

As for that would-be transgender influencer for Bud Light, Dylan Mulvaney now says Anheuser-Busch has ghosted her.

Too bad. If a company does choose to act out of social consciousness, it shouldnt cut and run at the first sign of resistance.

In an interview with CBS Mornings last week, Anheuser-Busch North America CEO Brendan Whitworth sounded as if he was tiptoeing in a minefield.

The conversation surrounding Bud Light has moved away from beer, he said.

Ya think?

Time was when corporate America was using its muscle to help overturn North Carolinas misbegotten anti-trans bathroom law, HB 2.

Now the tide has turned.

State lawmakers have introduced more than 500 bills restricting LGBTQ rights across the country this year, including, of course in North Carolina. Seventy-seven have passed.

And if you believe thats all by coincidence Ill bet you a Bud Light its not.
As I stepped into All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Delhi, I was swallowed by a maze of corridors. The queue in front of the pharmacy zigzagged between different buildings. Lanes and passages crisscrossed each other, and suddenly I had to make way for ambulances or patients being carried on stretchers. In the melee, sweepers quickly did their work. There was madness, yes, but with a method to it.

We sit with a yoga teacher and discuss which asana suits a particular patient. Each patient has to spend an hour every day, and come to the centre five days a week. There is a visible change. Dr Rima Dada, professor, lab for molecular reproduction and genetics, department of anatomy, AIIMS When I present papers abroad and get their recognition for yoga, it feels as if I have won a medal for Team India at the Olympics. Dr Gautam Sharma, professor of cardiology and founder, professor-in-charge of the CIMR

AIIMS has been Indias leading medical facility since 1956. The top government medical college and hospital is teeming with patientsfrom the low-income and middle-class households who come for quality and affordable care, to the VVIPs who come for expert opinion or care.

Now, AIIMS has also become the epicentre of yoga research in the country. Doctors and researchers are exploring therapeutic effects of yoga to combine it with modern medicine, and to evolve fresh guidelines for clinical practice. As Yoga has been Indias cultural property, scientists and academicians worldwide are taking keen interest in the research at AIIMS.

In 2016, AIIMS set up the Centre for Integrative Medicine and Research (CIMR), where practitioners of modern medicine collaborate with practitioners of yoga and ayurveda. Then, there are individual researchers like Dr Rima Dada, professor at the lab for molecular reproduction and genetics, department of anatomy. Since 2008, Dada has been studying the impact of yoga on rheumatoid arthritis, glaucoma, depression and male infertility.

Yoga research in AIIMS is usually funded by the Union ministries of Ayush, science and technology, and health. In some cases, the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) steps in. These studies are funded by Ayush, ICMR, etc, and have been provided evidence for the scientific basis of yoga in management of these studies," said Dada.

Case studies are split into two groups, with one on medicines alone and the other on medicines and yoga. Said Dada, The case studies, or the patients, come to our yoga lab and attend the yoga sessions, as advised by a certified yoga teacher. Each case is diagnosed with yoga therapistwhich asana suits a particular patient, and how one should go about with a particular patient. Each patient has to spend an hour every day, and come to the centre five days a week. There is a change in their problems when they complete the yoga session, in AIIMS, at the end of three months. They are then asked to continue doing yoga at home. We keep watch on them.

Dada said her research showed that yoga reduces the severity of many diseases and helps in the re-establishment of immunological tolerance by acting as an adjunctive treatment. Health benefits of yoga as a mind-body intervention begins at molecular level, and it can change the reading of our DNA. There is modification of epigenetic and gene expression profiles [when a person does yoga], said Dada.

Health is wealth: Union Minister of Health and Family Welfare Mansukh Mandaviya (third from left) leading the International Day of Yoga celebrations at AIIMS, Delhi, on June 21 | PTI

In her study on the effects of yoga on male fertility and offspring gene quality, it was found that by practising yoga regularly for six months, men showed not only significant reduction of free radicals and an increased expression of antioxidant activity gene, but also a gradual decline in sperms with damaged DNA, and an improvement in quality of sperms. Our studies also show that yoga lowers the risk of gonadal tumours and transmission of de novo germ to the offspring, said Dada.

Besides, yoga can create wonders for patients with rheumatoid arthritis. There was improvement in quality of life. When patients with arthritis practised yoga, the blood parameters showed a decline in pro-inflammatory markers, said Dada, There was also an increase in the expression of anti-inflammatory cytokine TGF-Beta and HLA-G molecules, thereby re-establishing immunological tolerance. This will improve the response to treatment and alleviate symptoms. Because of the chronic and painful nature of the disease, many patients suffer from co-morbid depression, and yoga improves the mood of the patient, and increases the secretion of feel-good chemicals such as endorphins in the body.

Glaucoma is a leading cause of irreversible blindness, and yoga helps glaucoma patients, too. When yoga is followed as an adjunct treatment for glaucoma, our studies showed that there is an increase in nerve growth, synaptic transmissions and anti-inflammatory gene activities, said Dada. Yoga asanas, she said, help anti-inflammatory action, neurotropic action and prevent release of substances that can block trabecular networks and cause an increase of pressure within the eye. Neuropathic factors were found to be triggering glaucoma. These can be modulated by practising asanas, the anulom vilom pranayama and meditation, said Dada.

Jitendra Kumar, a 39-year-old Central government employee from Haryana, was not inclined towards yoga. In 2019, I visited AIIMS after an eye strain. I was told that my optic nerve had dried up. I used to be in front of the screen for 10 to 12 hours. I was in the preliminary stages of glaucoma. That was when I agreed to join the yoga research on glaucoma. I attended around 18 sessions at Dr Dadas department, and there was a visible change, said Kumar, who will continue to do yoga at home every day. He said the yoga trainer in AIIMS, Richa Mishra, was proficient at her job. She connects yoga asanas with breath. There is so much positive energy that comes out of her, said Kumar.

Strong resolve: Richa Mishra, a yoga trainer at AIIMS, conducting a yoga session. They [patients] have confidence in us and are willing to take any trouble for the final result, said Mishra | Sanjay Ahlawat

Mishra said she thoroughly checks the physical and mental condition of patients and tailors the exercises accordingly. She is a native of Lucknow with a masters in yoga science. She said it was important for ones emotional quotient to be high while doing yoga. Every individuals mind and body mechanisms are unique. Yoga can create magic. There is so much in it, she said.

Mishra has been teaching at AIIMS since 2019. She said most of her patients were from Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Jammu and Kashmir and Rajasthan. They have confidence in us and are willing to take any trouble for the final result. Some patients are Muslims, and they have no problem accepting the benefits of yoga. They say yoga is helping them. What is important is commitment and some lifestyle modifications, along with regular practice, said Mishra.

Amit Rawat from East Delhi works in a private hospital, and is the proud father of a two-year-old daughter. I believe that the yoga training I got from Mishra, as per the advice of Dr Dada, benefited me and helped me become a father, he said. Rawats sperm motility was not normal, as he was taking some medicines. In 2020, I was referred to Dr Dadas department and I agreed to be part of the yoga research, he said, I practised yoga for three months. I was told to do surya namaskar and asanas that focused on the pelvis. After completing my yoga sessions at AIIMS, I practised yoga daily at home, with some lifestyle modifications, like restricting non-vegetarian food. You wont believe, within months my sperm motility was normal, and I was blessed with a baby girl in 2021.

Jayshree Kumar from Chapra in Bihar, too, is banking on yoga. He has been married for eight years, and wants to have a child. Like Rawat, Kumar was referred to Dadas department. After attending the yoga classes for some months, my sperm count has increased, he said, I also had to make some modifications to my lifestyle. There is some hope now. Yoga is helping me even otherwise. I dont get tired that easily now. I hope that I will become a father soon.

In most cases of delayed pregnancy, the problem lies with men, said Dada. Thirty per cent to 40 per cent of men in reproductive age have defects in sperm production. Sperm is the most vulnerable cell in the body, she said, Drinking alcohol, smoking and regular consumption of non-vegetarian food are a cause for concern. There is so much that yoga can offer, and it is proven. It has conquered the world, and it is about time we, Indians, realised the power of yoga.

The Centre for Integrative Medicine and Research in AIIMS was established in 2016. Last year, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during his Mann Ki Baat radio programme, recognised the work done by the CIMR in integrating contemporary medicine with traditional medical practices. Said Modi, The CIMR was established to validate our traditional medical practices. The institute has earned a name for itself after 20 papers from the institute were published in international journals.

Modi was referring to CIMRs study published in Journal of American College of Cardiology that described the benefits of yoga for patients suffering from syncope, and another study published in Neurology, which described the benefits of yoga in patients suffering from migraine. Professor of cardiology and founder, professor-in-charge of the CIMR, Dr Gautam Sharma, was filled with pride when Modi praised his institute. When such a praise comes from the prime minister of the country, it gives us encouragement to work harder, he said.

Studies at the CIMR have proven the benefits of yoga in patients with heart failure, rhythm disorders, depression, sleep disturbances, diabetes, blood pressure and episodic migraine. There were also studies on how prenatal yoga helped pregnant women to stay calm to changes that take place in the body during pregnancy.

Said Sharma, We have a good team of doctors and researchers at the CIMR, with yoga labs where sessions are held regularly. We get patients from every department who are willing to be a part of yoga research. We have yoga physicians here, and mainstream doctors will ask them for suggestions. We work together as a team. We ask yoga physicians about meditation techniques. Like what asanas to do during a migraine. Discussions happen over days, weeks and months. Finally, we make a module and see if it is working, and then we take the module to 10 national yoga experts, and take their consensus. The final onus is on us, the doctors at the CIMR. If we feel some asana is not suitable for a particular disease, we wont take it.

Yoga asanas are chosen according to the requirements of patients, said Sharma. The problem with yoga is that patients are initially excited. Over the first three months they practise it properly. But that does not continue, he said. Now, all our study is done real time online. We have six yoga instructors, and he or she does video call a patient. In the induction phase they are taught at the centre for a week. Once they are here, on an average, they need to practise yoga four days a week, depending on the module. Heart patients cant do yoga for an hour. So, we limit it to 30 minutes.

I have been a cardiologist for more than 25 years. We compete with the best in the world, said Sharma, When I present papers abroad and get their recognition for yoga, it feels as if I have won a medal for Team India at the Olympics. Top universities, he said, have invited him for talks on research on yoga. The CIMR is a self-sustained department, he said. All our staff are hired for some research; grants come from science and technology ministries, Ayush and health ministries, said Sharma.

The aim of the CIMR is to bring yoga under an official protocol and give clinical services to treat various health conditions with an integrated medical system. Soon new guidelines to combine mainstream and alternative medicines in ways that work best for the patient would be drafted based on our findings, said Sharma.

Research at the CIMR happens round the clock. In 2020, a group of doctors from departments of neurology and cardiology at AIIMS evaluated the effectiveness of yoga as an add-on to medical management of migraine. Between April 2017 and August 2018, they chose 160 patients with episodic migraine and divided them into medical and yoga groups. The yoga group showed significant mean delta value reduction in headache frequency as compared with the medical group.

There was another study on the effect of yoga on clinical outcomes and quality of life in patients with vasovagal syncope, where it was proven that yoga improved autonomic balance and alleviated stress.

AIIMS has been in the vanguard of yoga research from the 1960s. Dr B.K. Anand, Dr Baldev Singh and Dr G.S. Chinna were the first few doctors from the institute to do research on yoga. These doctors, in 1961, studied the relationship of yoga to the body, mind and consciousness, and persuaded yogis to cooperate with them.

Interestingly, there were investigations on yogis who claimed they could stop their heartbeat. Though the research at AIIMS found out that they could not do it, they were able to bring down cardiac output by decreasing the venous return to the heart. The yogis achieved it by raising the intra-thoracic pressure by taking a deep inhalation or exhalation followed by closure of glottis and tightening of the chest and abdominal muscles.

The research on Swami Ramanand Yogi is talked about even today. Doctors at AIIMS studied him inside an air-tight, sealed box on two separate occasionsfirst for eight hours and second for 10 hours. Yogis oxygen content decreased and carbon dioxide increased. But he, to everyones surprise, was not taking deeper breaths; there was no rapid heartbeat. Also, his electroencephalogram (EEG) resembled early stages of sleep.

Most of the researches that were carried out at the hospital in the 1980s and 1990s were clinically oriented, like the efficacy of yoga and meditation on epilepsy. On February 3, 2000, the department of physiology under the guidance of Dr Ramesh Bijlani provided structured nine-day lifestyle modification courses on yoga for prevention of chronic diseases such as diabetes and high blood pressure.

Said Bijlani, Although yoga is not a system of medicine, it has several elements that are relevant to medicine. He said if yoga was adopted in its true spirit, it would help promote health and prevent diseases. Yoga makes a person physically fit, emotionally stable, intellectually agile, and gives him a way of looking at the world that can fill life with love, peace and joy. That is why yoga has become a valuable tool in the practice of mind-body medicine, which is the last incarnation of modern medicine, said Bijlani. He took voluntary retirement from AIIMS in 2005, and has been a motivational speaker at the Sri Aurobindo Ashram, Delhi, where he conducts yoga classes.
Jawaharlal Nehrus name may have been dropped from the Teen Murti House Museum and Library by the Union government, but during his recent visit to the US and Egypt, it was perhaps not easy for Prime Minister Narendra Modi to steer clear of Nehrus looming presence. Nehru was one of the founders of the Non-Alignment Movementthe cornerstone of Indian foreign policy for decadesalong with Egyptian president Gamal Abdel Nasser. And the legacy still endures.

In Washington, before the guests at the state dinner hosted in Modis honour tasted the marinated millet, the US Marine band played Ae mere watan ke logonevoking memories of the 1962 Sino-Indian war when president John F. Kennedy helped India, even without a formal alliance.

Although the India-US honeymoon under Nehru lasted just a short while, Kennedy became a hero in India as the US shared crucial aerial photographs which were key to Indias war efforts, just like intelligence was shared in 2020 when violence erupted in the Galwan Valley. Kennedy also broke protocol and greeted Nehru in his plane when he arrived for a visit in 1961.

Prime minister Narasimha Rao with president George H.W. Bush in New York | Getty Images

As Modi nibbled samosas with Vice President Kamala Harris, the soundtrack had moved to Theres no mountain high enough... to keep me from getting to you, symbolising how far the relationship has come over the years. Modis state visit has formalised the possibility of joint defence production between the two countries, taking the partnership to the next level. The comfort level on display was possible because the relationship has been over 30 years in the making, starting with the end of the Cold War and blossoming further with the civil nuclear deal, through the tenures of multiple presidents and prime ministers.

Every Indian prime minister and American president has taken our relationship further, said Modi, addressing the joint session of the US Congress. But our generation has the honour of taking it to greater heights. I agree with President Biden that this is a defining partnership of this century because it serves a larger purpose. Democracy, demography and destiny give us that purpose.

Apart from Lal Bahadur Shastri, Charan Singh, V.P. Singh, H.D. Deve Gowda and Chandra Shekharall other Indian prime ministers have visited the US. Seven American presidentsDwight Eisenhower, Richard Nixon, Jimmy Carter, Bill Clinton, George W. Bush, Barack Obama and Donald Trumphave visited India. The relationship started to flourish from the time of George H.W. Bush as he presided over the end of the Cold War. Under incumbent President Joe Biden, it has become one of the most important bilateral partnerships for the US.

Lessons from history: Prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee receiving president Bill Clinton in Delhi | AFP

The biggest takeaway is that this relationship has become a truly strategic partnership, said Michael Kugelman, Asia Program deputy director at the Washington-based think tank, Wilson Center. It is not an alliance, but it is not far from one. It is quite clear that the relationship is multifaceted, with many different areas of cooperation, not just security, and plenty of tracks separate from China and even geopolitics. There is a lot of trust and goodwill, a far cry from the difficult days of the 1970s and 1980s. And, long-time sticking pointstrade tensions, hesitation about tech transfers, even the Russia issueare starting to melt away. We are seeing the emergence of a full-fledged long-term partnership, something that certainly will not please Beijing and will ensure enduring China-India tensions.

While Modi may enjoy the strategic hug from Biden, despite the unease within the administration over human rights and Indias stand on Russia, the credit for the first step in improving ties goes to P.V. Narasimha Rao. It was Rao who pushed the Indo-US relationship towards the destiny that Modi refers to. His meeting with Bush Sr on January 31, 1992, at the Waldorf Astoria hotel in New York, broke the ice between the two leading democracies. Rao realised that the Cold War was history and the US was the winner. The winds of change were blowing through Gorky Park and the Soviet dream was over. Bush and Rao took the opportunity and started talking, and they did not leave out even the most controversial topic that troubled bilateral relationsIndias nuclear ambitions.

Rao was aware of the allure of the Indian market and signalled that he was liberalising the economy. He lifted the ban on foreign companies setting up shop in India. Rao came calling again two years later. Bill Clinton, a Democrat, was in power, but, by then, a bipartisan consensus has started emerging in the US about the need for robust ties with India. Suddenly, all my cabinet members want to visit India, Clinton told Rao. When the two met at the Oval Office, there was some tension in the air. Rao reassured Clinton by saying that democracy was the future, which gave India and the US a common ground. He said it could change the world and spur economic growth and cooperation.

Prime minister Manmohan Singh with president George W. Bush at a G8 summit in Germany | PTI

If you look at the Indo-US strategic saga, Rao was the one who broke the ice, said Rakesh Sood, a retired diplomat who saw firsthand the change in bilateral ties over the decades. In 1992, the dialogue on nuclear issues began at the level of joint secretary, but it went through several ups and downs.

But Indias nuclear tests of 1998 under Atal Bihari Vajpayee came as a major roadblock in bilateral ties as the US imposed sanctions against India. Yet, Vajpayee was able to convince the US about ending the freeze and returning to the negotiating table. Sood spoke about how Vajpayee sent his trusted aide Jaswant Singh to talk to deputy secretary of state Strobe Talbot. Those were some of the most intensive, inclusive and productive talks, he said. There were 18 rounds of talks in 24 months. It was inconclusive because we signed no agreement, but it was most productive as it changed the perspective on nuclear issues and security between the two countries.

The task was immense. The Pakistani lobby was still very strong in Washington. Talbot himself had made it clear that the sanctions would stay unless India signed the Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty. Yet, Jaswant prevailed. He made a passionate and convincing defence of Indias nuclear ambitionspeaceful, and very much at the heart of its strategic autonomythat helped India emerge out of its isolation.

On July 18, 2005, it was clear that India was officially back in Washingtons good books as the two countries reached an agreement on New Delhi separating its civilian and military nuclear facilities and opening up the civilian facilities for inspections by the International Atomic Energy Agency. The US, in return, agreed to work for full civil nuclear cooperation with India. The agreement was clinched during an official visit of prime minister Manmohan Singh. The successful completion of this initiative clears the way for even greater engagement in a number of key areas in which cooperation has previously been limited or non-existent. The Next Steps in Strategic Partnership, announced in January 2004, was designed to increase cooperation in civilian nuclear activities, civilian space programmes, high-technology trade and missile defence, read the joint statement by the two sides. Three years later, Manmohan and Bush formally concluded the civil nuclear deal. The prime minister withstood tremendous opposition and even risked his government to clinch the deal.

Bilateral partnership has only deepened under Modi, from boosting defence ties to reaping the benefits of the high-technology agreements signed a decade ago. Bush and Obama pushed for defence ties, said Sood. But Modi, along with Trump and Biden, has moved it to the strategic sphere.

The relationship seems to be strong and committed despite concerns about democracy in India, aired in private. And it is going from strength to strength, thanks to Chinas continuing rise and threatening presence. The increasing intensity of the China challenge, as perceived by both Washington and New Delhi, has accelerated the growth of US-India security partnership in recent years, said Kugelman. Both countries have seen their relations with Beijing fall to their lowest levels in decades, and both perceive China as a threat, not just as a mere competitor or rival.
Guwahati, Jul 2 (PTI) HR technology firm Vantage Circle on Sunday said it will almost double its manpower to over 400 people within the next 2-3 years as it looks to foray into Latin America with its various products. The Guwahati-based company, which began as a less than 10-member startup in 2010, has now established operations in over 70 countries catering to more than 700 global clients with approximately 18 lakh corporate employees.

"Most of our clients are from India and the US. We offer various employee engagement solutions to clients in the form of rewards and recognition products. Nowadays, companies are gradually outsourcing this division for better management," Vantage Circle CTO and Co-Founder Anjan Pathak told PTI in an interview.

The company currently offers four different products -- perks, rewards, fit and pulse, which are customised and offered as per client requirements, he added.

Apart from its headquarters in Guwahati, the company has offices in Delhi and Australia, while it operates through a subsidiary in the Netherlands, Pathak said.

"Europe is a big market and we have started our business there. On July 6, we will open our office at Calgary in Canada and this will cater to the company's North American expansion plans," he added.

The Co-founder said that the company is now looking at entering the Latin America market in the coming days.

"We are getting a lot of traction from the Latin American nations. It is a huge market and we are looking for opportunities there," he added.

Pathak also stated that looking at the growth prospects, the company is planning to hire more people in the future.

"At present, we have around 230 employees on our rolls. We are gradually increasing our headcount. We are looking to have 400 people on board within the next 2-3 years," he added.

Out of its total manpower strength, 80 per cent are freshers in the 26-27 years of age group, while 40 per cent of the staff are women, Pathak said.

Asked about the funding source, the CTO said that the company has never borrowed money or accepted investments.

"Vantage Circle is a 'bootstrap' firm. So far, only our family and close friends have put in money. Also, all our products are developed in-house by our own engineers looking at the clients' varied needs," he added.

Some of the top leading business houses like HCL, Accenture, Infosys, Wipro, Aricent, GE, Mu Sigma, Capgemini, Renault, Wakefit, HP, Samsung, Infosys, Sun Pharma, Tesco, Ericsson, Bosch, BCG and Tata Group firms (except TCS) are clients of the Vantage Circle.
London, Jul 2 (PTI) A Tunisian man who had been charged with the murder of Indian-origin student Sabita Thanwani at her university accommodation in the Clerkenwell area of north London in March last year has admitted to her killing in court.

Maher Maaroufe, 23, pleaded guilty to manslaughter by reason of diminished responsibility during a hearing at the Old Bailey court here on Friday and will be sentenced in September.

The court heard how Thanwani, 19, was found under the sheets with a cut to her throat on March 19 last year.

According to court reports, the prosecution described how Maaroufe and Thanwani had been in a relationship prior to the morning of the killing. They were at the student accommodation when a neighbour overheard various noises and screams coming from the room and called emergency services.

A post-mortem examination gave Thanwanis cause of death as sharp force trauma to the neck.

Before the police arrived at the scene of the killing, the suspect had left the building but as he did so he was seen by officers wearing a balaclava, the court was told.

The Metropolitan Police had issued an urgent manhunt for Maaroufe and charged him days later.

At this weeks hearing, he appeared by video link from high-security psychiatric hospital Broadmoor for the hearing and the prosecution accepted the manslaughter plea.

Maaroufe also pleaded guilty to a charge of assault by beating an emergency worker for head-butting a police officer during his arrest last year. In court, he was assisted by an Arabic interpreter and was remanded back into custody.

In a statement released at the time of her death, Thanwani's family described the student as "our angel" and said she had a "radiant smile and incredible heart".

"Sabita was the most caring and loving person we have ever known. She inspired us every day of her precious 19 years of life. Her mission was to help everyone. She was studying psychology at City University to make this happen. Her whole life was ahead of her, a life where her radiant smile and incredible heart could only spread warmth and kindness," they said at the time.
Singapore, Jul 2 (PTI) Singapores Hindi-speaking community of about 100,000 celebrated the 200th Birth Anniversary of Swami Dayanand Saraswati through the launch of a new Heritage Gallery and Mural at the 96-year-old premises of Arya Samaj here on Sunday.

A Chinese Singaporean mural artists work on the Hindi-speaking community on the walls of the Arya Samaj was launched on Sunday as the main part of the 200th Birth Anniversary of Swami Dayanand Saraswati.

Spanning 36m x 8m, across two buildings, the paintings of early migrants from Uttar Pradesh and Bihar as sepoys during the colonial raj is the largest in Singapores Little India precinct.

Artist Yip Yew Chong braved heavy rains, having to repaint the washed-down paint, has helped establish the roots of the community in the Gangetic heartland by incorporating a scene from temple life along the ghats (riverfront steps) in the ancient city of Varanasi at the banks of the river Ganga.

I aim to make my art as visually relatable and authentic as possible to the public, as I hope my art will contribute to the culture and identity of the communities expressed in my art, said Yip, a former accountant turned mural artist with over 80+ painted in Singapore and overseas.

I aim to tell stories through my art - stories of my life, people and places, he said as the mural was launched at the Arya Samaj by community leaders representing some 100,000 Hindi-speaking residents and expatriates.

Yip is confident in painting murals that showcase non-Chinese cultures. Thats because Singapore is a multicultural country and I live, go to school, serve in the army, and work alongside many other races. I enjoy diverse cultures. Thus, in many of my murals in both Singapore and abroad, I have painted familiar scenes and elements of non-Chinese cultures.

The audience is just everyone, regardless of race, language, religion and nationality, he told PTI.

The temple will further strengthen its heritage status through the heritage gallery that includes archival and contemporary images, documentary films, and a stunning mural, the largest in Singapore's Little India, said Associate Professor Rajesh Rai, Head of South Asian Studies Programme at the National University of Singapore and descendent of an early migrant family from Uttar Pradesh.

A community leader and veteran lawyer Sat Pal Khattar launched the heritage gallery, which documents the story of Swami Dayanand Saraswati and Arya Samaj, founded in 1927 in Singapore. Also featured in the mural is the DAV Hindi School at the Samaj and the community that has shaped the history of these organisations.
Washington, Jul 2 (AP) President Joe Biden will head to Europe at week's end for a three-country trip intended to bolster the international coalition against Russian aggression as the war in Ukraine extends well into its second year.

The main focus of Biden's five-day visit will be the annual NATO summit, held this year in Vilnius, Lithuania.

Also planned are stops in Helsinki, Finland, to commemorate the Nordic country's entrance into the 31-nation military alliance in April, and Britain, the White House announced Sunday.

Biden will begin his trip next Sunday in London, meeting with King Charles III. The president did not attend Charles's coronation in May, sending first lady Jill Biden to represent the United States. In June, Biden hosted British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak at the White House, where the two leaders pledged continued cooperation in defending Ukraine.

The NATO meeting comes at the latest critical point in the war. Ukraine's president, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, says counteroffensive and defensive actions against Russian forces are underway as Ukrainian troops start to recapture territory in the southeastern part of the country, according to its military leaders.

Jens Stoltenberg, NATO's secretary-general, visited the White House on June 13, where he and Biden made clear that the Western alliance was united in defending Ukraine.

Biden said during that meeting that he and other NATO leaders will work to ensure that each member country spends the requisite 2 per cent of its gross domestic product on defense.

The NATO allies have never been more united. We both worked like hell to make sure that happened. And so far, so good, Biden said as he sat alongside Stoltenberg, who is expected to extend his term for another year.

"We see our joint strength in modernizing the relationship within NATO, as well as providing assistance to defense capabilities to Ukraine.

When Finland joined NATO in April, it effectively doubled Russia's border with the world's biggest security alliance. Biden has highlighted the strengthened NATO alliance as a signal of Moscow's declining influence.

Sweden is also seeking entry into NATO, although alliance members Turkey and Hungary have yet to endorse the move. Biden will host Sweden's prime minister, Ulf Kristersson, at the White House on Wednesday in a show of solidarity as the United States presses for the Nordic nation's entry into NATO.

Turkey's president, Recep Tayyip Erdogan, has said Sweden is too lax on terrorist groups and security threats. Stoltenberg has said Sweden has met its obligations for membership through toughening anti-terrorist laws and other measures.

Hungary's reasons for opposing Sweden have been less defined, complaining about Sweden's criticism of democratic backsliding and the erosion of rule of law. Hungary, while providing humanitarian aid to Ukraine, has also sought to balance its relations between NATO and Russia. Budapest is heavily reliant on Russia for its energy requirements.

All nations in the alliance have to ratify the entry of a new member country.

The White House has stressed that Sweden has fulfilled its commitments to join NATO and has urged that it join the alliance expeditiously.(AP) RUP

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Kathmandu Jul 2 (PTI) China is positive towards providing further development assistance to Nepal, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Home Affairs Narayan Kaji Shrestha said on Sunday.

Talking to reporters here, Shrestha said he held extensive discussions with the Chinese leaders focusing on strengthening bilateral relations, promoting trade, investment and economic development.

Shrestha said he found Chinese officials positive towards assisting Nepal in its development endeavours.

"We asked China to increase its economic assistance to Nepal when we prioritize the goals for economic development and prosperity," Shrestha said at the Tribhuvan International Airport after arriving here from China following a five-day visit.

Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng and Communist Party of China Sichuan Province Chief Wang Xiaohui assured that they would take Nepal's proposal seriously, Shrestha added.

During the meeting with the Chinese Vice-Premier, "discussions were held on promoting bilateral trade, tourism, investment, connectivity, scaling of China's assistance to Nepal among others," he said.

Shrestha said he thanked the government of China for its significant assistance to Nepal during the hour of crisis such as earthquake, and COVID-19 pandemic."

He said his meetings with the Chinese leaders also focussed on the implementation of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) project. The Chinese side was optimistic about Nepal's preparedness to take benefits from projects under the BRI, he said.

"In response, we briefed them about Nepal's plans and steps regarding the BRI," he added.

Shrestha also held talks with office bearers of Sichuan Airlines on operating flights from Chengdu to new airports in Nepal. The airline was positive about the matter, he informed.

"During the meeting, the Nepal side asked China to add Chengdu-Kathmandu flights, and commercially begin flights from Chengdu to Pokhara and Bhairahawa International Airports in Nepal," Shrestha said.

"We have urged them to run a Chengdu-Kathmandu flight daily. On the matter, they were positive. We have also asked them to start Chengdu-Pokhara and Chengdu-Bhairahawa direct commercial flights," he added.

During his visit, Shrestha also addressed the 19th Western China International Fair as the chief speaker.

On the occasion, he urged Chinese investors to invest in Nepal as the country has adopted a policy of encouraging, promoting and protecting foreign investments by carrying out reforms in its investment system.

Shrestha also inspected the Jinping Hydropower Project and Dujiangyan Irrigation System.
Nanterre, Jul 1 (AP) President Emmanuel Macron scrapped an official trip to Germany on Saturday after a fourth straight night of rioting and looting across France in defiance of a massive police deployment. Hundreds turned out for the burial of the 17-year-old whose killing by police triggered the unrest.

France's Interior Ministry announced that in the latest night of violence, 1,311 people were arrested around the country, where 45,000 police officers fanned out in a so-far unsuccessful bid to restore order.

In the violence sparked by the teen's death on Tuesday, some 2,400 persons have been arrested overall. The interior minister, defending the mass arrests, said 45,000 police would again be deployed Saturday night, with an increase in the cities of Marseille and Lyon after a spike in violence there.

Protesters and rioters turned out on the streets of cities and towns, clashing with police, despite Macron's appeal to parents to keep their children at home. About 2,500 fires were set and stores were ransacked, according to authorities.

The justice minister said 30 per cent of those detained were minors, some as young as 13.

It's not up to the state to raise children, said the minister, Eric Dupond-Moretti, lashing out at parents of underage rioters.

At a hilltop cemetery in Nanterre, where the teen identified only as Nahel was killed, hundreds of people stood along the road to pay tribute as mourners carried his white casket to the burial site, where journalists were barred. Some of the men carried folded prayer rugs. Before the burial, prayers were held at a mosque.

Men first, an official in suit and tie declared to dozens of women waiting to enter the cemetery. But Nahel's mother, dressed in white, walked straight inside to applause and headed toward the grave. Many of the men were young and Arab or Black, coming to mourn a boy who could have been them.

After days of protests, police were nowhere to be seen.

The violence was taking a toll on Macron's diplomatic profile. German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier's office said Macron phoned Saturday to request a postponement of what would have been the first state visit by a French president to Germany in 23 years. Macron had been scheduled to fly to Germany on Sunday evening for the visit to Berlin and two other German cities.

Macron's office said he spoke with Steinmeier and, given the internal security situation, the president (Macron) said he wishes to stay in France over the coming days."

Nahel was shot during a traffic stop on Tuesday in the Paris suburb of Nanterre. Video showed two officers at the window of the car, one with his gun pointed at the driver.

As the teenager pulled forward, the officer fired once through the windshield. This week, Nahel's mother told France 5 television that she was angry at the officer who shot her son, but not at the police in general.

"He saw a little Arab-looking kid, he wanted to take his life, she said.

Nahel's family has roots in Algeria. Race was a taboo topic for decades in France, which is officially committed to a doctrine of colorblind universalism.

The police officer accused of killing Nahel was given a preliminary charge of voluntary homicide, meaning that investigating magistrates strongly suspect wrongdoing, but need to investigate more before sending a case to trial. Nanterre prosecutor Pascal Prache said that his initial investigation led him to conclude that the officer's use of his weapon wasn't legally justified.

Anger over Nahel's death erupted in violence, including in the French territories overseas, where a 54-year-old died after being hit by a stray bullet in French Guiana. Hundreds of police and firefighters have been injured. Authorities haven't released injury tallies for protesters.

The reaction to the killing was a potent reminder of the persistent poverty, discrimination, unemployment and other lack of opportunity in neighborhoods around France where many residents trace their roots to former French colonies -- like where Nahel grew up.

Nahel's story is the lighter that ignited the gas. Hopeless young people were waiting for it. We lack housing and jobs, and when we have (jobs), our wages are too low, said Samba Seck, a 39-year-old transportation worker in the Paris suburb of Clichy-sous-Bois.

Clichy was the birthplace of weeks of riots in 2005 that shook France, prompted by the deaths of two teenagers electrocuted in a power substation while fleeing from police. One of the boys lived in the same housing project as Seck.

Like many Clichy residents, he lamented the violence targeting his town, where the remains of a burned car stood beneath his apartment building, and the town hall entrance was set alight in rioting this week.

Young people break everything, but we are already poor, we have nothing, he said, adding that "young people are afraid to die at the hands of police.

Despite the escalating crisis, Macron held off on declaring a state of emergency, an option used in 2005. But government ratcheted up its law enforcement response, with the mass deployment of police officers, including some who were called back from vacation.

France's justice minister, Dupond-Moretti, on Saturday warned that young people who share calls for violence on Snapchat or other apps could face legal prosecution. Macron has blamed social media for fueling violence.

Finance Minister Bruno Le Maire said 700 shops have been damaged and promised government support for owners.

There is no nation without order, without common rules, he said.

Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin has ordered a nationwide nighttime shutdown of all public buses and trams, which have been among rioters' targets. He also said he warned social networks not to allow themselves to be used as channels for calls to violence.

The violence comes just over a year before Paris and other French cities are due to host Olympic athletes and millions of visitors for the summer Olympics, whose organizers were closely monitoring the situation as preparations for the competition continue.

Thirteen people who didn't comply with traffic stops were fatally shot by French police last year. This year, three more people, including Nahel, died under similar circumstances. The deaths have prompted demands for more accountability in France, which also saw racial justice protests after George Floyd's killing by police in Minnesota.(AP)

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Mumbai, Jul 2 (PTI) Three persons were killed when their car dashed the divider on the Samruddhi Expressway in Maharashtras Ahmednagar district on Sunday, police said.



The incident has occurred just a day after 25 people were charred to death when their bus caught fire on the expressway in Buldhana.



The accident on Sunday took place on the expressway near Bhojade village in Kopargaon around 11.30 am, an official from Kopargaon police said.



The driver lost control of the wheel and the car dashed the divider, killing all three passengers on the spot, the official said.



The victims were travelling to Mumbai from Nanded, he said, adding that locals rushed the trio to a hospital, but they were declared dead.



A case under section 304-A (causing death by negligence) and other relevant provisions of the Indian Penal Code has been registered against the driver, the official said.



Twenty-five passengers were charred to death when the bus they were travelling in caught fire after dashing into the divider and turning turtle on the expressway in Buldhana district on Saturday.



There were 33 passengers onboard the ill-fated bus and eight survived the tragedy.
Imphal, July 1 (PTI) People on Saturday staged demonstrations at several places in Manipurs Imphal Valley demanding implementation of the National Register of Citizens (NRC) and peaceful resolution to the ongoing crisis.



In Imphal East districts Khurai, a large number of women staged a sit-in to denounce any attempt to impose Presidents Rule in the state and affirmed their support to Chief Minister Biren N Singh.



In Jiribam district bordering Assams Cachar district, women took out a rally urging the chief minister and MLAs not to resign as it would tantamount to surrendering before the militants.



These demonstrations come a day after Biren N Singh clarified that he was not resigning from the post.



Before his clarification, thousands of demonstrators had blocked his convoy from proceeding towards Raj Bhavan on Friday.



The CM eventually told women demonstrators that he was not resigning.



He tweeted, At this crucial juncture I would like to clarify that I will not be resigning from the post of chief minister.



Unconfirmed reports said the CM had typed out a resignation letter but was persuaded by his supporters to tear it up. Some of the women agitators alleged they had seen the torn letter and social media also posted copies of it.



More than 100 people have lost their lives in the ethnic violence between Meitei and Kuki communities in the northeastern state so far.

Meiteis account for about 53 per cent of Manipur's population and live mostly in the Imphal Valley. Tribals -- Nagas and Kukis -- constitute another 40 per cent of the population and reside in the hill districts.
Ranchi, Jul 2 (PTI) Former minister Jagarnath Mahto's wife Baby Devi will take oath as minister in the Hemant Soren led UPA government in Jharkhand on Monday, a JMM leader said on Sunday.

A ministerial berth in the Hemant Soren cabinet was vacant after the death of Mahto, who held charge of school education and literacy and excise.

The swearing-in ceremony is likely to be held around noon in Raj Bhavan, the JMM leader said.

"Jharkhand Governor CP Radhakrishnan will administer the oath of office and secrecy to her at an event in Raj Bhavan. Chief Minister Hemant Soren and other cabinet ministers will also be present at the ceremony," JMM central committee member Vinod Pandey told PTI.

Mahto, who was a four-time JMM MLA from Dumri in Giridih district, died during treatment at a Chennai hospital on April 6.

The Dumri assembly seat is vacant after the death of the former minister. Devi is likely to contest in the by-election from the seat, the JMM leader said.
New Delhi, Jul 2 (PTI) President Droupadi Murmu will visit Karnataka, Telangana, and Maharashtra from July 3 to 7, during which she will attend two convocations and meet members of vulnerable tribes, a statement issued on Sunday by the Rashtrapati Bhavan said.

She will attend the 2nd convocation of Sri Sathya Sai University for Human Excellence in Muddenahalli, Karnataka on Monday.

She will also interact with the members of PVTGs (Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups) at the state's Raj Bhavan in the evening, it said.

On July 4, President Murmu will grace and address the closing ceremony of 125th birth anniversary of Alluri Sitarama Raju in Hyderabad.

The President will address the 10th convocation of Gondwana University on Wednesday. She will also inaugurate the Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan's Sanskritik Kendra in Koradi, Nagpur, it added.

On July 6, President Murmu will interact with the members of PVTGs in Raj Bhavan, Nagpur.

She will attend a civic reception at Raj Bhavan, Mumbai, to be hosted in her honour by the government of Maharashtra, the statement added.
New Delhi, Jul 2 (PTI) Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal on Sunday held talks with visiting Justice Minister of Vietnam Le Thanh Long.

In a series of tweets in Hindi, Meghwal said the meeting will further strengthen bilateral ties, including promoting legal and judicial cooperation, between the two countries.

He said the talks were held to mark the 51st anniversary of diplomatic relations between India and Vietnam, and completion of seven years of Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.
Jaipur, Jul 2 (PTI) Rajasthan Congress on Sunday condemned former BJP MLA Kailash Verma for allegedly showing a wrong map of India in a video statement he issued.

Congress spokesperson Swarnim Chaturvedi in a statement alleged said that the BJP leader in a video statement showed a map of India which did not show Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh as its part.

Chaturvedi said that with the map, Verma belied the stance of his own party, which doesn't leave a chance to make "tall claims" on Jammu & Kashmir.

The Congress urges the Centre to take strict action against the leader of the Bharatiya Janata Party who put such "anti-national" videos, he said in the statement.
Lucknow, Jul 2 (PTI) The Uttar Pradesh government plans to use eight rivers as inland waterways to improve connectivity and transportation of goods, especially bulk cargo such as foodgrains and fertilisers.

Senior state government officials said the Yamuna, Gomti, Assi, Ghaghra, Rapti Betwa, Chambal and the Varuna rivers will be used as waterways to transport goods and people.

The move is in line with the BJP-led Centre's Maritime India Vision 2030 that envisages increasing the share of inland water transport to five per cent by 2030. Work on achieving the target has already started. The Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath-led Uttar Pradesh government aims to provide the plan with a shot in the arm, the officials said.

The proposed waterways authority will have officials from the transport, irrigation and tourism departments. However, the initial work to survey prospective waterways has been assigned to transport department officials.

Transport Minister Dayashankar Singh told PTI on Saturday, "Mother Nature has blessed Uttar Pradesh with so many rivers. The potential of these rivers has been neglected in the past. We are making an effort to make the rivers more useful for the public. The plan to develop waterways is a step towards this."

According to a Government of India report, inland water transport is the most economical mode of transportation, especially for bulk cargo such as coal, iron ore, cement, foodgrains and fertilisers.

"The plan is in the initial survey phase. The modalities of it will be decided as per the survey and the feasibility on different rivers. However, we are moving ahead with the intention to realise the aim to strengthen and expand the waterways," Singh added.

Inland water transport has a share of two per cent in India's modal mix. The Centre intends to increase the share to five per cent, according to the Maritime India Vision 2030.

The recent Ganga Vilas luxury cruise that set off from Varanasi and covered over 3,200 kilometres through 27 river systems in India and Bangladesh has given a major push towards the plan to utilise the waterways for public transport.

"Apart from looking at the waterways' potential to ferry cargo, we are also planning to boost public mobility, both for short and longer distances. The transport department will run water taxis in the rivers where it is feasible. We will get further clarity on this once the survey is completed," said Singh.

The survey will be followed by fairway development to ensure the least available depth for the movement of water taxis and cargo boats.

Under the Maritime India Vision 2030, work is underway to ensure least available depth of 2.5 metres in Barh-Ghazipur and 2.2 metres in the Ghazipur-Varanasi stretch of the National Waterway 1 on the Ganga.

The work is being done under the Jal Marg Vikas Project, undertaken by the Inland Waterways Authority of India with technical and financial assistance from the World Bank.

"The work on the waterways will be expedited following the formation of an inland waterways authority. Work is underway to get it cleared by the state cabinet in the coming months," Singh said.
Julana (Haryana), Jul 2 (PTI) Haryana Deputy Chief Minister Dushyant Chautala on Sunday slammed the opposition parties, alleging they only have one job -- that is how to break the ruling BJP-JJP alliance and stop the state's progress.

The Jananayak Janata Party (JJP) is part of a coalition government with the BJP in Haryana.

Dushyant Chautala was speaking at a rally in Julana in the Sonipat parliamentary constituency as part of the party's preparations for the 2024 elections.

In a scathing attack on the opposition parties criticising him, Dushyant Chautala asked if he was the "biggest enemy" of the state and said the JJP worked only for Haryana's progress in the past-three-and-a-half years.

"Today, the opposition has only one job -- that is how this alliance breaks up and how our organisation disintegrates and how to stop the state's progress," he said.

He also listed the works undertaken by the government during this period, including building a new road network and bringing investment to the state.

Referring to the formation of the JJP in 2018, the Haryana deputy chief minister said the "sapling" has grown into a "fruit tree".

The JJP leader also asked party workers to work for the 2024 polls.

Dushyant Chautala also alluded to a newspaper cartoon that showed him with a key and said, "This key will remain here and this key will continue to open the lock of the Haryana Vidhan Sabha."

The BJP and the JJP entered into an alliance after the assembly polls in 2019. The BJP secured 40 seats while the JJP won 10 in the 90-member House. In the 2019 parliamentary elections, the BJP had won all 10 Lok Sabha seats in the state.

Launching an attack on the opposition parties, including the Congress and the Indian National Lok Dal, Dushyant Chautala said they only have only one thing on their mind -- that is to get rid of him.

"You see their statements. They speak (against me) as if I am the biggest enemy of the state. We did not take the state backward. We worked towards taking the state forward," he said.

Slamming the previous Bhupinder Singh Hooda regime, he alleged that the then Congress government acquired 63,000 acres of farmers' land and gave it to private builders.

The BJP-JJP government, however, acquired land only after the farmers consented, he said.

Investment in Haryana did not exceed Rs 20,000 crore in the 10 years of the Hooda regime, he said, but during the BJP-JJP government, a Maruti Suzuki plant is coming up at an investment of Rs 13,000 crore in Sonipat's Kharkhoda.

Describing the plant as the world's biggest, Dushyant Chautala said it will manufacture 10,000 cars every year and generate 12,000 jobs, 75 per cent of which will go to youngsters from the state.

Speaking at the rally, Ajay Singh Chautala, the JJP's national president, exhorted the party workers to strengthen organisation at the booth level ahead of the 2024 Lok Sabha and assembly elections. He added that these steps will ensure that the party's strength in the assembly rises from 10 at present to 46 and its vote share to 51 per cent from the current 17 per cent.
Lucknow, Jul 2 (PTI) The Uttar Pradesh Police's Anti Terrorism Squad has arrested two people for allegedly promoting the ideology of terror outfits on social media.

In a statement on Sunday, the Anti Terrorism Squad (ATS) said, "One Saddam Sheikh (38), a resident of Gonda district who was currently employed with a Bangalore-based firm, arrested for posting radical posts inciting hate on social media platforms."

Sheikh was "highly motivated" by cross-border terror outfits and terrorists.

"He wanted to become an enabler of the terror activities and thus used to post radical social media posts regularly," according to the statement.

Sheikh was allegedly also in touch with a Kashmir-based terrorist over a social media platform, the ATS said.

Another ATS team arrested 23-year-old Kashmir native Rizwan Khan. He was working as a security guard at a meat processing unit in Unnao.

"Rizwan Khan is motivated by terror groups and used to promote their ideology via radical posts on social media groups," the ATS said.

Separate cases have been lodged against Khan and Sheikh at the ATS police station in Lucknow.
Amravati, Jul 1 (PTI) Over 1,300 camps under the 'Jagananna Suraksha' programme were conducted across Andhra Pradesh on Saturday for resolving people's grievances, the state government said.

Government employees, volunteers, and people's representatives interacted with the complainants on a "massive scale and issued tokens after registering their complainants", according to an official statement.

These camps will be held for a month in 15,004 wards and village secretariats across the state.

Chief Minister Y S Jagan Mohan Reddy launched 'Jagananna Suraksha', a month-long programme to reach out to all the households in the state to resolve their grievances.
Thiruvananthapuram, Jul 2 (PTI) Prime Minister Narendra Modi's campaign for the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) was part of the sangh parivar's "preparations" to implement the "Hindutva agenda" in the country and an attempt to damage India's pluralism, the ruling CPI(M) in Kerala said on Sunday.

CPI(M) state secretary M V Govindan, who met the media today, attacked the RSS and the BJP and said they were "parading" the Prime Minister across the country to campaign for the UCC and urged the secular-minded civil society to protest against the proposed move.

"The announcement that the Uniform Civil Code will be implemented is an attempt to damage or destroy the pluralism of the country... The UCC, the CAA all are part of the preparations of the RSS and the sangh parivar to implement their Hindutva agenda," Govindan said.

He said the Left party will organise a seminar in this regard and would invite all parties which are not communal.

He, however, said that the Congress party would not be invited as that party was unable to take a "coherent stand" in this matter.

"The Congress party is not unified in this matter. The leaders have different opinions. A Congress minister recently supported the UCC," Govindan claimed, adding that the state-level seminar would be held at Kozhikode.

He said the issue of UCC was beyond politics and urged everyone with a secular mindset to protest against it.

"The RSS which wants to destroy the secular India and lead the country towards fascism is now parading the Prime Minister across the country to campaign for the UCC," he said.

On Manipur violence, the senior CPI(M) leader attacked the state and the Central governments and said they have no clue about the loses of lives and property in the riots happening there.

"Neither the state government of Manipur nor the Central government or the BJP which fueled the riots in Manipur are now unable to end the violence there. They have absolutely no idea how many temples, churches or mosques have been destroyed there. They don't know how many people lost their lives," Govindan alleged.

The CPI(M) leader said the Left MPs would visit Manipur in coming days.

More than 100 people have lost their lives in the ethnic violence between Meitei and Kuki communities in Manipur since clashes first started on May 3.

In the press meet, Govindan also criticised a section of media in Kerala and alleged that they were attempting to tarnish the image of the Left party and the government after siding with the Congress and the BJP.

He alleged that there was an organised campaign against the Left party.

Govindan pointed out some recent Kerala High Court verdicts which have criticised the media and asked to conduct a self-evaluation.

He said the media was silent over many corruption and cheating cases unearthed against various Congress leaders.

"Now, they are trying to save V D Satheesan (LoP) and K Sudhakran (KPCC president). Both the leaders are claiming that the cases against them were political. Is that so? Sudhakaran is the second accused in a cheating case involving Monson Mavunkal. Satheesan is involved in Punarjani scam in which huge fund from abroad was received to construct houses for poor," Govindan alleged.

He claimed that his party has not supported anyone accused of any wrong doings.

"Is that how the Congress party in Kerala is functioning? The KPCC president had openly supported the accused in Dheeraj murder case and made him an office-bearer of the youth wing," Govindan said and alleged that the media was silent over many similar issues.
Hyderabad, Jul 2 (PTI) Prime Minister Narendra Modi will lay foundation stone for various development projects at Warangal in Telangana on July 8, Union Tourism Minister G Kishan Reddy said on Sunday.

He said Modi would visit the famous Bhadrakali temple before attending the events and would also address a public meeting.

The Union Minister said the Centre has, in principle, decided to establish a wagon manufacturing unit at Warangal.

"I am conveying this with happiness to people of Warangal on behalf of Narendra Modi ji that wagons manufacturing unit is going to come up in Warangal town," he told reporters at Warangal.

He said the proposed unit to be set up by the Centre would have the capacity to manufacture 200 wagons per month. The cost of the unit, its employment potential and other details would be announced soon, he said.

"But, in principle, Government of India, decided to establish wagon manufacturing unit at Warangal city, (with) per month more than 200 wagons manufacturing capacity," he said.

The wagon manufacturing unit is an addition to a periodic overhauling unit which would be established in the city, he said.

The Prime Minister has agreed to perform 'bhumi puja' for the wagon manufacturing unit, he said.

The other development works includes laying foundation for National Highway projects, the Union Minister said.

Alleging that the BRS government in Telangana was spreading false campaign about the NDA government at the Centre, he asserted that the Modi government does not discriminate among states.
The Helena Police Department has partnered with Lewis and Clark Humane Society to implement a trap, neuter and release program for the hundreds of feral cats within city limits.

Helena Police Chief Brett Petty told the Helena City Commission during an April 5 administrative meeting that his animal control officers have identified six to seven feral cat colonies within the city of 20 or more feral cats.

Lewis and Clark Humane Society Animal Services Manager Katie Axline-Pittman said in an interview Thursday that within the greater Helena community, including the north valley outside of HPD jurisdiction and the program's boundaries, there is an estimated 20 to 30 colonies that have been identified in recent years.

"People may only notice a couple of stray cats or dogs in their neighborhood, but the problem is much bigger than that," Axline-Pittman said.

Per the arrangement, HPD animal control officers will identify colonies, set humane society-provided traps in the area, transport the trapped cats to the humane society.

A medical team will assess the health of the captured cats, and those deemed healthy enough for surgery will be spayed or neutered; vaccinated against rabies and other diseases; kept at the shelter overnight for evaluation; and returned by an animal control officer to the location at which they were trapped less a half inch of their left ears.

"The reason for the ear tipping, if we were to re-catch this cat, we would know that this procedure has already happened to the cat," Petty said.

Petty said "(i)f they do catch a cat that is checked out by medical staff and is deemed sick or injured ..., the medical staff can make further decisions regarding the cat's quality of life, including the possibility of having to possibly euthanize the cat."

The program is a fairly large operation. With grant funds, the humane society hopes to host two clinics a month during warmer months.

Axline-Pittman said about five humane society staff members and a veterinarian can handle upward of 25 cats per clinic at the cost of about $500.

She said the police reached out to the humane society after recently receiving a deluge of complaints regarding feral cats in the downtown area.

Axline-Pittman said such programs are implemented across the country and considered "best practice."

Carrol College assistant professor of anthrozoology Molly Sumridge sent the city a letter in support of the program.

"TNR is a mainstream practice across the United States. It's considered good public policy and a standard of practice in most major cities, yet it is sorely missing in Montana," Sumridge wrote in the letter. "I am deeply impressed by the efforts of your Animal Control team to bring Helena forward with policies and procedures to resolve human-animal conflicts. Adopting a TNR policy is integral in this mission."

Petty told the commissioners Havre has run a similar program since 2018.

"They have used this program on over 450 cats," he said. "All the areas they've implemented the program, they've seen a large reduction in the number of cats, also the health of the cats is improved and the amount of cats coming into their shelter has declined."

Petty said there is a real need.

"So the overall goal of this trap, neuter and return program is to TNR 80% or more of a colony," he said. "This would give us the ability to manage the cat population through spay and neuter as well as be able to control the transfer of diseases from cats to other animals by way of vaccinations."

Both Petty and Axline-Pittman said officers and staff are working with effected neighborhood residents.

"Our animal control officers have spoken to a lot of people for and against the program," Petty said.

Axline-Pittman said in cases involving a potential euthanasia, the staff will involve the caregivers, those who provide some level of care to a cat colony, whenever possible, though such situations have been rare thus far.

The shelter has been conducting the program outside the city limits since the spring of 2022 and has so far processed about 175 cats last year. So far this year, the shelter has processed about 50.

"It helps reduce the number of animals, the amount of disease spread while still letting them live their lives," she said.

While rabies is the most common disease of concern among such colonies, Axline-Pittman said the local shelter is seeing a large number of these cats come in with severe upper respiratory illnesses.

The cats can also pose a physical risk to humans who attempt to handle them.

"Most of these community cats are unsocialized," she said. "This is generations of cats that do not interact with people, so observe them from afar."

She said residents can contact the humane society for help with nuisance cats.

"We're happy to provide tips and tricks to help people coexist with the cats," she said.

The Helena City Commission approved during its Monday meeting revisions to city code allowing for the implementation of the program under HPD.

Lewis and Clark Humane Society's grant funding for its part of the program will last for the next year.

For more information, contact the Lewis and Clark Humane Society at 406-442-1660 or animal control at the HPD non-emergency dispatch at 406-457-8866
Westerly, RI (02891)

Today

Cloudy skies this morning followed by thunderstorms during the afternoon. High 76F. Winds SE at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 60%..

Tonight

Thunderstorms this evening, then skies turning partly cloudy after midnight. Potential for heavy rainfall. Low 66F. Winds SSW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 80%.




On Friday afternoon, the New York Times reported on letters sent by the New York City Department of Education to 14 yeshivas. According to the Times, which cited City officials, the news was all bad. Those yeshivas were accused of not providing substantially equivalent instruction, whatever that means.

The Times ignored the fact that 7 other yeshivas were deemed just fine by the City. And we presume that the letters were far more nuanced than the Times is letting on. The new state regulations demands instruction in New York State history and constitution, and a review of a schools teacher recruitment and hiring policies.

It matters  a lot  if a yeshiva is deemed non-equivalent for failures in those areas or if it is lacking in core subjects such as English, Math and Social Studies. And so YWN set out to find out what the Citys 14 letters said about those subjects. But the City wont give us answers.

YWN formally requested the letters on Friday, after the Times reported on them. The City has not responded. It seems like there is one set of rules for the Times and a different one for the Orthodox community.

YWN publicly demands that the City release the letters. If they are all bad  as the Times suggests  release them. If they are more balanced  as YWN suspects  release them.

As things stand now, the yeshiva community is getting pilloried while it cant defend itself because the City has tied its hands by not releasing the letters.

Politics makes for strange bedfellows, and so we understand why many of our mosdos to not want to publicly criticize the City. So we will give the final word to PEARLS, which has courageously lead the battle to protect yeshiva education and was the only organization to issue a public statemnt on Friday.

PEARLS rejects the attempt to measure the efficacy of yeshiva education by applying a skewed set of technical requirements.

Utilizing a government checklist devised and enforced by lawyers may help explain the state of public education. It is designed to obscure rather than illuminate the beauty and success of yeshiva education.

The outcomes of yeshiva education are on display every day across New York: in the successful business and professional careers of tens of hundreds of thousands yeshiva graduates and in the law abiding and loving families they are raising here.

Parents choose yeshiva education for their children because of the religious, moral and educational philosophy and approach of those who lead yeshivas.

They will continue to do so, regardless of how many government lawyers try to insist that yeshiva education is best measured by checklists they devise rather than the lives yeshiva graduates lead.

(YWN World Headquarters  NYC)




This isnt satire. North Korean dictator Kim Jong Un has issued a secret order to local authorities, aiming to ban suicides in response to a significant rise in numbers. The reclusive regime rarely discloses information about the countrys internal issues, making it challenging to ascertain the exact figures. However, according to the South Korean National Intelligence Service, suicides in North Korea have surged by approximately 40% compared to the previous year.

Kim Jong Un characterized suicide as an act of treason against socialism in the directive and emphasized that local government officials would be held jointly responsible for failing to prevent such incidents within their jurisdictions, as reported by Radio Free Asia.

During emergency meetings where the issue was discussed, data regarding the number of suicides was presented, and instances of entire families taking their own lives were highlighted, according to an official interviewed by Radio Free Asia. The disclosure of suicide notes that criticized the country and its social system left attendees shocked.

Another official told Radio Free Asia that suicide was affecting the community more than starvation. Despite the implementation of a suicide-prevention policy endorsed by the General Secretary, officials have struggled to find effective solutions. The prevailing causes of suicides were attributed to extreme poverty and starvation, making it difficult to develop immediate countermeasures.

Based on 2019 data from the World Health Organization, North Korea had an average of 8.2 suicides per 100,000 people, placing the country 45th in the global ranking of suicide rates.

(YWN World Headquarters  NYC)




President Joe Biden vowed Friday to push ahead with a new plan providing student loan relief for millions of borrowers, while blaming Republican hypocrisy for triggering the days Supreme Court decision that wiped out his original effort.

Biden said his administration had already begun the process of working under the authority of the Higher Education Act of 1965, which he called the best path that remains to provide as many borrowers as possible with debt relief.

In the meantime, since student loan-payment requirements are to resume in the fall, the White House is creating an on ramp to repayment and implementing ways to ease borrowers threat of default if they fall behind over the next year.

The president said the new programs will take longer than his initial effort would have to ease student loan debt.

Speaking to reporters at the White House, Biden said borrowers now angry about the courts decision should blame Republicans. He is trying to stay on the political offensive even as the ruling undermined a key promise to young voters who will be vital to his 2024 reelection campaign.

These Republican officials just couldnt bear the thought of providing relief for working class, middle class Americans, Biden said. The hypocrisy of Republican elected officials is stunning.

Trying to place staunch opposition to student loan forgiveness on the GOP could allow Bidens reelection campaign to maintain the issue as one of strength in the short term. But that may ultimately offer little solace to 43 million Americans who benefited from the initial program and will now have to wait for its replacement to take shape.

We do not want to go into excruciating debt for our entire lives to enhance our education, Voters of Tomorrow, a Gen Z-led organization that promotes the power of young Americans, said in a statement.

The White House efforts to forgive loans were an attempt to keep a Biden promise stretching back to his 2020 campaign to wipe out student loan debt  an idea that was especially popular with young voters and progressives. Both will be key for the president in next years presidential race but may be less energized about supporting him after the high courts decision.

Wisdom Cole, the national director of the NAACP Youth & College Division, said Black Americans helped put Biden in the White House, so theres an obligation for him to finish the job with his pledges to provide relief for borrowers.

Its going to have a huge impact on the next election, Cole said, adding, If we dont do this, we continue the cycle of seeing our elected leaders make promises and not follow through.

A May poll from The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research found that 43% of U.S. adults approve of how Biden sought to handle student debt, similar to his approval rating overall of 40% in the same poll.

The poll suggested that Biden gets credit for his handling of the issue among young adults in particular. Fifty-three percent of adults under age 30 said they approved of Bidens handling of student debt, compared with only 36% who approved of his job performance overall.

Senior administration officials said Bidens top advisers had met frequently lately to prepare for a high court ruling on student loans. They also spoke with advocates and allies in Congress. After Fridays decision, Biden met with top advisers and ordered them to immediately begin implementing a new loan plan.

The White House argues that its new efforts will stand up to future legal challenges, even given the Supreme Courts 6-3 current conservative majority. However, the administration also insisted its original plan was legal .

Biden bristled at suggestions his efforts to ease student loan burdens got borrowers hopes up unnecessarily.

I didnt give any false hope, he said. The Republicans snatched away the hope that they were given.

The political stakes are especially high since progressive Democrats in Congress and activists have been clamoring for the administration to offer an alternative to Bidens original student loan plan for months, fearing that the Supreme Court would ultimately move to block the presidents original efforts.

Many progressives argued that the Higher Education Act was the best vehicle all along, though the administration worried that implementation might have been slower had it originally tried employing the act.

The new approach uses a provision allowing Education Secretary Miguel Cardona to compromise, waive or release student loans. The Biden administration used the same basis last year to forgive $6 billion in loans for borrowers who were deceived by their colleges.

The details of the new forgiveness will be negotiated through a federal rulemaking process that the administration launched Friday. The process allows the Education Department to write or change federal regulations with the weight of law.

But theres no guarantee that the plan could survive another legal challenge.

The Higher Education Act has been used to cancel student debt but never at this scale, and lawyers for the Trump administration concluded in 2021 that the education secretary does not have statutory authority to provide blanket or mass cancellation under the act.

The GOP has long countered that repaying student loans is a fairness issue, and many leading Republicans celebrated Fridays ruling. Betsy DeVos, who served as secretary of education under President Donald Trump, called Bidens original plan deeply unfair to the majority of Americans who dont have student loans.

Republicans now seeking their partys 2024 presidential nomination lined up to applaud the decision, with former Vice President Mike Pence saying he was pleased that the court struck down the radical lefts effort to use the money of taxpayers who played by the rules and repaid their debts in order to cancel the debt of bankers and lawyers in New York, San Francisco, and Washington.

Addressing the Moms for Liberty conference in Philadelphia on Friday, Trump slammed Bidens efforts on student loans as a way of trying to buy votes, thats all it was. Former U.S. ambassador to the United Nations Nikki Haley said the Supreme Court was right to throw out Joe Bidens power grab.

After Biden announced his response, some Republicans were equally quick to reject it.

Taxpayers just got sucker punched  again  by this administration, said Rep. Virginia Foxx, a North Carolina Republican. Today, President Biden announced that taxpayers will be forced to pay for the costliest regulation in our nations history.

(AP)




Hundreds of thousands of air travelers are facing potential flight cancellations and delays this weekend, the peak of summer travel, as thunderstorms threaten the East Coast, West Coast and points in between.

Nearly 270 U.S. flights were canceled early Friday, according to flight tracking service FlightAware, and more than 1,100 U.S. flights were delayed. Its been a terrible week for United Airlines and it is leading all major domestic carriers again Friday both canceled and delayed flights.

Staying calm  and knowing your rights  can go a long way if your flight is canceled, experts say. Heres some of their advice for dealing with a flight cancellation:

MY FLIGHT WAS CANCELED. WHAT NEXT?

White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said the DOT and Federal Aviation Administration were working closely with airlines to help minimize flight disruptions resulting from extreme weather heading into the July Fourth holiday.

But if your flight is cancelled, most airlines will rebook you for free on the next available flight as long as it has seats, according to the U.S. Department of Transportation.

If you want to cancel the trip, you are entitled to a full refund, even if you bought non-refundable tickets. Youre also entitled to a refund of any bag fees, seat upgrades or other extras.

Kurt Ebenhoch, a consumer travel advocate and former airline spokesperson, has stressed that travelers are eligible for a refund, not just vouchers for future travel. If you do take a voucher, make sure you inquire about blackout dates and other restrictions on its use.

CAN I ASK TO BE BOOKED ON ANOTHER AIRLINES FLIGHT?

Yes. Airlines arent required to put you on another airlines flight, but they can, and sometimes do, according to the DOT. Jeff Klee, CEO of CheapAir.com, previously recommended researching alternate flights while youre waiting to talk to an agent. Agents are typically under a lot of pressure when a flight is canceled, so giving them some options helps.

Ebenhoch also suggested looking for alternative airports that are close to your original destination.

IS THE AIRLINE REQUIRED TO GIVE ME A HOTEL ROOM, OR OTHER COMPENSATION?

No. As announced last month, the Biden adminstration is seeking to require that airlines compensate travelers and cover their meals and hotel rooms if they are stranded for reasons within the carriers control  but, as of now, each airline still has its own policies about providing for customers whose flights are canceled, according to the DOT.

Many airlines do offer accommodations, so you should check with their staff. The DOT also has an online dashboard that allows travelers to compare cancelation and delay policies of major carriers.

IM FACING A LONG WAIT TO REBOOK. WHAT SHOULD I DO?

If someone in your traveling party is at a higher level in a frequent flier program, use the number reserved for that level to call the airline, Ebenhoch said. You can also try calling an international help desk for the airline, since those agents have the ability to make changes.

HOW CAN I AVOID THIS IN THE FUTURE?

Ebenhoch said nonstop flights and morning flights are generally the most reliable if you can book them. If youre worried about making it to the airport in time for a morning flight, he said, consider staying at a hotel connected to the airport the night before. And consider flying outside of busy dates.

Klee recommended comparing airlines policies on the DOTs service dashboard. He also suggests reserving multiple flights and then canceling the ones you dont use, as long as the airline will refund your money or convert it into a credit for a future flight.

ARE FLIGHT CANCELATIONS TRENDING LOWER IN 2023?

Flight cancellations trended lower throughout the spring of 2023 than last year, according to data from the FAA.

Industry officials argue that carriers have fixed problems that contributed to a surge in flight cancellations and delays last summer, when 52,000 flights were nixed from June through August. Airlines have hired about 30,000 workers since then, including thousands of pilots, and they are using bigger planes to reduce flights but not the number of seats.

Still, officials warn of lingering staffing shortages, notably among key air traffic controllers. The FAA is training about 3,000 more controllers, but they wont be ready for this summers travel. The agency resorted to nudging airlines to reduce flights in the New York City area this summer, and it opened 169 new flight paths over the East Coast to reduce bottlenecks.

In a government audit published last week, the Transportation Departments Office of Inspector General found that the FAA has made limited efforts to have adequate staffing at critical air traffic control facilities, noting that the agency continues to face staffing challenges and lacks a plan to address them, which in turn poses a risk to the continuity of air traffic operations.

(AP)




President Joe Biden will host Swedens prime minister at the White House on Wednesday in a show of solidarity as the United States presses for the Nordic nations entry into NATO, a bid stalled by objections from two members of the Western military alliance.

Biden and Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson plan to review our growing security cooperation and reaffirm their view that Sweden should join NATO as soon as possible, the White House said a statement Saturday. The leaders also will discuss the war in Ukraine and China.

Sweden and neighbor Finland dropped their long-standing military neutrality after Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022 and applied for NATO membership, seeking protection under the organizations security umbrella.

Finland, which shares an 832-mile (1,340 kilometer) border with Russia, joined NATO in April. Sweden, which has avoided military alliances for more than 200 years, has seen its ascension delayed by Turkey and Hungary; NATO requires the unanimous approval of all members to expand.

NATO had hoped the road to Swedens membership would be smoothed out before the alliances summit July 11-12 in Vilnius, the capital of Lithuania. Swedens entry would be a highly symbolic moment and the latest indication of how Russias war is driving countries to join the alliance.

But Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has resisted, with his government accusing Sweden of being too lenient toward groups that it says pose a security threat, including militant Kurdish organizations and people associated with a 2016 coup attempt in Turkey.

This past week, he condemned Sweden over a Quran-burning protest. Swedish police allowed the protest outside a mosque in central Stockholm, citing freedom of speech after a court overturned a ban on a similar Quran-burning.

NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg said he would gather senior officials from Turkey, Sweden and Finland this coming Thursday to try to overcome Turkeys objections.

Hungary also has yet to ratify Swedens bid. Hungarian lawmakers said a long-delayed parliamentary vote on that would not would not happen until the autumn legislative session.

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbans government has alleged that Swedish politicians have told blatant lies about the condition of his countrys democracy. High-ranking Hungarian officials have said they support Swedens membership bid while also making vague demands from Stockholm as conditions for approval.

(AP)




After three years, the pandemic-era freeze on federal student loan payments will end this fall and more than 40 million Americans will have to start making payments again under the terms of a debt ceiling deal approved by Congress.

Student loan interest will start accruing on September 1 and payments will restart in October. That means tough decisions for many borrowers, especially those in already-difficult financial situations.

It might seem tempting to just continue not making payments, but the consequences can be severe, including a hit to your credit score and exclusion from future aid and benefits.

However, President Joe Biden on Friday offered a plan for a 12-month grace period to help borrowers who initially struggle when payments restart. Exact details have yet to be released.

After that on-ramp, experts say delinquency and bankruptcy should be options of last resort. Deferment and forbearance  which pause payments, though interest may continue to accrue  are often better in the short term.

WHAT HAPPENS IF I DONT MAKE STUDENT LOAN PAYMENTS?

Once payments restart in earnest, borrowers who cant or dont pay risk delinquency and eventually default. That can badly hurt your credit rating and make you ineligible for additional aid and government benefits.

If youre struggling to pay, advisers first encourage you to check if you qualify for an income-driven repayment plan, which determines your payments by looking at your expenses. You can see whether you qualify by visiting the Federal Student Aid website. If youve worked for a government agency or a non-profit organization, you could also be eligible for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program, which forgives student debt after 10 years.

Carolina Rodriguez, Director of the Education Debt Consumer Assistance Program at the Community Service Society of New York, emphasizes that anyone temporarily unemployed should be able to qualify for a $0 payment plan. And many others qualify based on income and family size.

The repercussions of falling into delinquency can be pretty severe, Rodriguez said. The federal government can administratively intercept tax refunds and garnish wages. And it can affect Social Security, retirement, and disability benefits. Does it make financial sense at that point? Probably not.

Rodriguez says her organization always advises against deferment or forbearance except once a borrower has exhausted all other options. In the long term, those financial choices offer little benefit, as some loans will continue to accrue interest while deferred.

Abby Shafroth, senior attorney and director of the Student Loan Borrower Assistance Project at the National Consumer Law Center, said that, of the two, deferment is generally a better option.

Thats because interest generally does not accrue on Direct Subsidized Loans, the subsidized portion of Direct Consolidation Loans, Subsidized Federal Stafford Loans, the subsidized portion of FFEL Consolidation Loans, and Federal Perkins Loans. All other federal student loans that are deferred will continue to accrue interest.

Forbearance allows you to postpone payments without it being held against you, but interest does accrue. So youre going to see your balance increase every month.

HOW DID THE SUPREME COURT RULE ON STUDENT LOAN FORGIVENESS?

The U.S. Supreme Court has ruled that the Biden administration overstepped its authority in trying to cancel or reduce student loan debt, effectively killing the $400 billion plan, which would have canceled up to $20,000 in federal student loans for 43 million people. Of those, 20 million would have had their remaining student debt erased completely.

The sharply divided court held the Biden administration overstepped its authority in trying to cancel or reduce student loans for millions of Americans, saying the administration needs the endorsement of Congress before undertaking so costly a program. The 6-3 decision, with conservative justices in the majority, also rejected arguments that a bipartisan 2003 law dealing with student loans provided the authority Biden claimed.

WHAT DID PRESIDENT BIDEN PROPOSE WHEN HIS PLAN WAS STRUCK DOWN?

Biden announced a 12-month grace period when payments restart. Biden said borrowers can and should make payments during the first 12 months after payments resume, but, if they dont, they wont be at risk of default and it wont hurt their credit scores.

Separately, the administration plans to pursue student debt cancellation with a different legal justification than the one struck down by the Supreme Court. The White House hopes to provide relief instead by using the Higher Education Act, a broad federal law that governs the student loan program. Exactly who will be eligible and how much will be canceled will be decided through a federal rulemaking process. But that process can take months, or even longer, so this attempt at cancellation wont come quickly.

Many questions still remain about the plans, and its not entirely clear yet how they will work.

Whats more, theres no guarantee Bidens new forgiveness plan could survive another legal challenge. The Higher Education Act has been used to cancel student debt, but never at this scale. Education lawyers for the Trump administration concluded in 2021 that the education secretary does not have statutory authority to provide blanket or mass cancellation under the act.

WHAT ABOUT DECLARING BANKRUPTCY?

For most student loan borrowers, its still very difficult to have your loans discharged, or canceled, through bankruptcy. Borrowers must prove a very hard standard of financial circumstances, called undue hardship.

That doesnt mean people shouldnt look into it, Rodriguez said. But they may not be successful at discharging their loans.

For borrowers who show that level of financial strain, chances are they have other options, Rodriguez said.

She advises that borrowers make sure they are speaking to a bankruptcy attorney who understands student loan bankruptcy, which requires a different proceeding than other types of bankruptcy.

Shafroth, of the NCLC, says that new guidance on student loan bankruptcy has been coming out in recent years.

Though it is difficult to get your loans discharged through the bankruptcy process, an increasing number of borrowers are eligible to get their loans discharged that way, she said. A lot of people write that off as: Theres no way, its impossible. But its increasingly possible.

WHAT HAPPENS WHEN A LOAN GOES INTO DEFAULT?

When you fall behind on a loan by 270 days  roughly 9 months  the loan appears on your credit report as being in default.

At that point, its not just behind, its in collections, Shafroth said. Thats when you become ineligible to take out new federal student aid. A lot of people go into default because they werent able to complete their degree the first time. This prevents them from going back to school.

Once a loan is in default, its subject to the collection processes mentioned above. That means the government can garnish wages (without a court order) to go towards paying back the loan, intercept tax refunds, and seize portions of Social Security checks and other benefit payments.

WHAT ARE OTHER OPTIONS IF I CANT MAKE PAYMENTS?

Shafroth said that many borrowers may still be eligible to have loans canceled via a patchwork of programs outside of the Biden administrations proposed debt relief program.

If your school closed before you could complete your program, youre eligible for relief. If your school lied to you or misrepresented the outcome of what your enrolling would be, you can file a borrower defense application, and request your loan be canceled on that basis, she said. If you have a disability, you can sometimes have your loans canceled on that basis.

Shafroth encourages borrowers to look at the Student Aid website to see what their options might be before missing payments.

WHAT IF MY LOANS WERE IN DEFAULT BEFORE MARCH 2020?

Under the Biden administrations Fresh Start program, borrowers with federal student loans who were in default before the pause have a chance to become current.

Borrowers who were in default will not be subject to collection processes or have wages garnished through about August 2024, or roughly one year after the payment freeze ends. These borrowers have also been granted permission to apply for federal student loans again, to complete degrees. Lastly, these defaulted loans are now being reported to credit bureaus as current.

That said, borrowers must take action if they want to stay out of default after this year-long leniency period ends.

To eliminate your record of default, you should contact the Education Departments Default Resolution Group online, by phone, or by mail, and ask the group to take the loans out of default via the Fresh Start policy. In four to six weeks, any record of default will be removed from your credit report, and the loans will be placed with a loan servicer. This will also give you access to income-driven repayment plans and Public Service Loan Forgiveness, if applicable.

WHAT IF I WAS BEHIND ON PAYMENTS OR DELINQUENT BEFORE MARCH 2020?

The Fresh Start program also applies to borrowers who were delinquent prior to the payment pause. Those accounts will be considered current, and borrowers will have the option to enroll in income-driven repayment plans that can lower bills to as little as $0, or to apply for deferment, forbearance or bankruptcy.

(AP)




Officials closed a dog park and other areas in a New Jersey nature reserve following an attack by what they called an aggressive coyote that bit a 13-year-old girl and a dog.

Essex County officials said the attack occurred at about 3 p.m. Friday in a wooded area near the dog park in the South Mountain Reservation.

The teenager was taken to Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center with puncture wounds to her leg, a spokeswoman for Essex County Sheriffs Office told reporters. WABC-TV and WPIX-TV reported that a woman was also attacked about 90 minutes later in the same area. There was no immediate word on that persons condition.

County Executive Joseph DiVincenzo Jr. said in a statement that after consulting with state fish and wildlife officials, authorities decided to keep the dog park and nearby picnic and parking areas closed for the next five days out of an abundance of caution to protect the safety of the public.

We ask that anyone visiting the reservation be extremely cautious, DiVincenzo said.

The 2,112-acre county-owned park in central Essex County includes parts of Maplewood, Millburn and West Orange townships.

(AP)




By the time Martin DuPain got back home from a short walk Thursday afternoon, he was covered with a smattering of tiny flying critters. They were in his hair, on his shirt and in his nose.

When he sneezed, the bugs came flying out.

As if the smoke and haze sweeping in from wildfires in Canada werent enough, New York City has been invaded in recent days with plumes of flying insects that have become both a nuisance and a source of fascination  what were they, whered they come from and will they ever go away? Another unwanted Canadian export?

At first, DuPain, who lives in Queens, thought it might have been wind-driven ash, but he soon found out otherwise. Some were alive and flying. He quickly jumped in the shower.

The startling scene was nothing short of a gnatural disaster, quipped a post on Twitter, which has been abuzz with reports of swarms in some neighborhoods, while others remain bug-free.

As they entered clouds of bugs, some people tried to wave them away. Others covered their mouths and noses. Others put on surgical masks before venturing outdoors.

Professor David Lohman, an entomologist at the City University of New York, hadnt seen any of the insects himself, but he concluded from photos and videos circulating on social media that they were winged aphids  not gnats, as amateur bugologists assumed.

Aphids are common all over the United States, even in New York City. They are small, pear-shaped insects that come in a variety of colors, from green, red and yellow to black, brown and gray.

While he is not an aphid expert  there are very few  Lohman said the swarms are unusual, given that aphids dont usually come out in New York City until after summer. He theorized that warm winter temps might have contributed by causing the bugs biological clock to go off-kilter.

On Friday, Lohman went in search of aphid experts who could chime in.

Aphids fly at all times of the growing season, Natalie Hernandez, who specializes in aphids, wrote in an email to Lohman. If a colony gets too large, too dense, it will produce winged morphs to disperse.

The wildfires in Canada and extreme temperatures could be messing with them too, she added.

That theory sounded plausible to Andy Jensen, another aphid researcher.

The smoke might be allowing aphids to remain abundant longer into summer than normal, Jensen said. Many aphids slow down or stop reproduction in the heat of summer.

Whatever the cause, the citys Public Health Department said, there was nothing to be alarmed about.

While this may be annoying, these insects do not present a known public health risk, the department said in a statement Friday. We are looking into these bugs and will share any important health information.

The bug experts say the swarms shouldnt last much longer, which is a relief to Jeremy Cohen, who was riding his bike in Brooklyn when he felt as if he was being pelted by bits of hail.

At times, he steered his bicycle with one hand and used the other to cup his mouth and nose.

I knew the air quality was bad so I just assumed it was debris from the wildfires just flying around  which I thought would have been crazy, said Cohen, a professional photographer. Then I slowly realized there was a swarm of bugs flying around.

While some saw the insects as annoying, the presence of so many bugs delighted Lohman.

The appearance of all these aphids signal something great: New York is organic! he said. If pesticide use was widespread, there wouldnt be this many aphids.

(AP)
South Africa: Government focused on ending load shedding, building a buffer

Minister in the Presidency responsible for Electricity, Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa, has reaffirmed governments commitment to finding solutions to end load shedding.

Briefing media on progress in the implementation of the Energy Action Plan in Pretoria, Ramokgopa reassured South Africans that, working with a team of competent engineers at Eskom and the leadership of the Board, significant strides are being made.

I want to give you confidence that we are going to resolve this, its an engineering problem. I eat, breathe and sleep [finding] solutions to load shedding and Im confident that with the team that is helping us, we will be able to resolve load shedding, he said on Sunday.

We will get out of load shedding and build a buffer and ensure that the South African economy is able to realise its potential, Ramokgopa said.

Government had projected that in winter the country would hit the highs of 34 000 Megawatts, but it has not reached anything close to this. The Minister attributed this to a change in South Africans and industries attitude towards reducing their electricity demand.

Giving an update on the previous five-day average ending on 30 June 2023, Ramokgopa said the current available capacity was beginning to plateau at about 29 913 Megawatts, compared to 28 664 Megawatts of capacity which the country was sitting on from 26 June 2023.

We are making significant improvements of about 1 300 Megawatts of improvement [and] what is encouraging for me is that we are beginning to maintain that, Ramokgopa said.

He said South Africa was beginning to keep up with the demand and this had resulted in no load shedding for significant periods of the day.

However, the Minister emphasised that there was a need to ensure that generation far exceeds demand.

In that way we would be able to pull a number of units through planned maintenance and we would be able to build a buffer, so that, as the South African economy continues to grow and recover, we would have sufficient generation capacity.

The Minister said it was worth noting that in the midst of winter they were able to ramp up planned maintenance, which he said is an illustration of a system that is recovering.

Focus on partial load losses

Partial load losses was an area receiving attention, Ramokgopa said, adding that government was tapping into expertise outside of Eskom to go and work with General Managers at various stations.

We are able to diagnose and determine the root causes of the failures from one unit to the other - what are the common failures that are responsible for the failing of that unit and/or responsible for the partial load losses? Then we know the biggest culprits on the units going out is boiler tubes, quality of the coal, us keeping to the emission parameters.

We are very meticulous [and] deliberate. Theres is a degree of granularity on how we are beginning to understand the performance of these units and the kinds of skills and interventions that are required to help us to address this situation, Ramokgopa said.

Transmission remains a vulnerable area

Meanwhile, the issue of transmission needs to be addressed.

The Minister said this remained a vulnerable area and required urgent attention as it undermines the ability to bring on board new generation capacity from renewable energies that give the best returns.

If you have to do a wind atlas, the best areas for you to have wind is the coastal areas of the Western Cape and Eastern Cape. It is exhausted in the Northern Cape, it is about to be exhausted in the Western Cape [and] it is not sufficient in the Eastern Cape, to accommodate the amount of energy that we want to introduce, he said.

He said Eskom is working on a transmission development plan, but the issue is around finance.

Ramokgopa said this required an innovative plan. - SAnews.gov.za

This story has been published on: 2023-07-02. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article.
Family, friends and Chicago police officers on Thursday shared emotional tributes at the funeral Mass for Chicago police Officer Andres Mauricio Vasquez Lasso, who was shot and killed on March 1 while responding to a domestic 911 call. Police officers filled the pews at St. Rita of Cascia Shrine Chapel for the service, presided in English and Spanish by Chicago police chaplain Fr. Dan Brandt and Fr. Andres Beltran.



The mourners paid their respects to Vasquez Lasso with the solemn rituals of a police funeral. Under cloudy skies, officers and community members lined the streets, saluting as a hearse took Vasquez Lassos casket to the Southwest Side church.



Bagpipers played outside, and scores of police cars lined South Western Avenue as Vasquez Lassos body passed under an American flag held up by two outstretched fire truck ladders. Among attendees were Mayor Lori Lightfoot, mayoral candidate Paul Vallas and a number of aldermen.



At times like these, we are in despair. We dont believe anyone really cares about the sacrifices that are made, or knows the courage and the bravery it takes to constantly run towards danger, Chicago police Supt. Superintendent David Brown told mourners. We dont know if anyone fully understands the trauma of seeing people at their absolute worst or the horrors of seeing death, mangled bodies, tortured souls.



Vasquez Lasso, 32, immigrated to the United States from Colombia when he was 18 years old. He enrolled in college and joined the Chicago Police Department Police by 27, said Bryan Spreyne,cq commander of the Chicago Lawn Police District where Vasquez Lasso was assigned.



Like many people across the city these past few days, Ive been trying to make sense of a tragedy that doesnt make sense, Spreyne said, his voice shaking with emotion.


DECATUR  Jaydyn M. Mitchell has been sent to prison for three years after making repeated attempts to torch his ex-girlfriends Decatur home before setting it on fire and causing more than $4,000 in damage.

Mitchell, 20, took a plea deal negotiated by defense attorney Susan Moorhead and admitted a charge of residential arson.

A sworn affidavit from the Decatur Police Department quoted the girlfriends 55-year-old mother as saying the first attempt to burn down the Wayside Avenue home she lived in with her daughter was made June 28, 2022.

Frightened by the experience, security cameras were installed, and these captured footage of a man matching Mitchells description dousing the house with gas before setting it on fire around 2 a.m. July 29, 2022. Six tires on vehicles parked outside the house were also slashed.

Mitchell was back at the house on Aug. 9 when surveillance footage captured him peering into the homes windows at 1:50 a.m. while carrying a lighter in one hand and what appeared to be a handgun in the other.

Detective Jeremy Appenzeller, who signed the affidavit, said police executed a search warrant for Mitchells truck on Sept. 1 and found clothing matching that worn in the surveillance videos. They also found a BB gun made as a replica of a semiautomatic pistol and a red lighter similar to one seen on the security camera footage.

Mitchell appeared in Macon County Circuit Court June 22, where he was sentenced by Presiding Judge Thomas Griffith. The judge also ordered him to pay $250 to have his DNA added to a criminal database maintained by the Illinois State Police.

2023 mugshots from the Herald & Review Lourash Hirstein Phillip Gehrken Joseph A. Williams Jetrevius O. Jarrett Edwards King-Woods Wilson Derrickson Colby J. Park




Rob Malley, Bidens special envoy on Iran, has been placed on unpaid leave after his security clearance was suspended earlier this year, CNN reported on Thursday.

According to a US official, Malleys security clearance was suspended amid an investigation into his possible mishandling handling of classified material. He was placed on leave on Thursday afternoon.

I have been informed that my security clearance is under review, Malley responded to an inquiry in an email. I have not been provided any further information, but I expect the investigation to be resolved favorably and soon. In the meantime, I am on leave.

US State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller confirmed to Reuters that Malley is on leave.

Rob Malley is on leave and Abram Paley is serving as acting Special Envoy for Iran and leading the Departments work in this area, Miller stated.

Malley, one of the main architects of the pro-Iran policies advanced by President Obama, has a history of virulent anti-Israel views.

(YWN Israel Desk  Jerusalem)




The Israeli Air Force attacked an anti-aircraft battery and other targets in Syria in response to an anti-aircraft missile that was launched from Syria toward Israel and exploded in its airspace on Motzei Shabbos.

Fighter jets attacked an anti-aircraft battery in Syrian territory overnight in response to the launch of an anti-aircraft missile from Syrian territory towards Israeli territory earlier tonight, the IDF spokesperson stated. In addition, the planes attacked other targets in the area.

An initial investigation indicates that the missile launched overnight from Syrian territory into Israeli territory exploded in the air. There are no casualties and no special instructions for the home front.

Shrapnel from the missile landed in the Bedouin city of Rahat in southern Israel and slightly damaged a building.

(YWN Israel Desk  Jerusalem)




Israels Ministry of Defense and IDF have approved a plan to procure a third squadron of Adir F-35 aircraft, expanding the Air Force fleet to a total of 75 F-35s.

Defense Minister Yoav Gallant approved the recommendation of IDF Chief of Staff Herzi HaLevi and Air Force Commander Maj. Gen. Tomer Bar to acquire another 25 Adir fighter jets, the worlds most advanced stealth combat aircraft.

The new aircraft, to be manufactured by Lockheed Martin, are worth an estimated $3 billion and will be received from the US as part of the US military aid budgeted for Israel.

(YWN Israel Desk  Jerusalem)




In a tense pre-dawn incident on Sunday, an anti-aircraft missile launched from Syria detonated over Israeli airspace, resulting in shrapnel falling in the southern city of Rahat. The Israeli Air Force (IAF) allegedly carried out strikes near the Syrian city of Homs, according to reports.

Syrias state news agency, SANA, confirmed the Israeli strikes near Homs, stating that several sites were targeted, causing unspecified material losses. The Syrian air defenses responded to what they referred to as Israeli aggression on Homs, a claim frequently made by Syria in response to alleged Israeli attacks. However, military analysts often doubt the veracity of these assertions.

Fortunately, there were no reports of injuries, however, residents in central and southern Israel reported hearing a significant explosion during the strike.

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) acknowledged the launch of an anti-aircraft missile from Syria towards Israel, indicating that the missile likely exploded mid-air. Footage captured in Rahat showed shrapnel believed to be from a Russian-made S-200 surface-to-air missile system, with the nose of the missile colliding with a building, causing minor damage, while the tail landed in an open field nearby. Firefighters and police forces swiftly responded to the scene.

Rahat, situated approximately 230 kilometers (142 miles) from Israels border with Syria and 415 kilometers (257 miles) from Homs, unexpectedly became the location where the missile debris descended.

The IDF stated that there were no specific instructions for civilians following the incident, and no sirens were activated in Israel when the Syrian missile breached Israeli airspace. While uncommon, previous instances of Syrian surface-to-air missiles fired at Israeli fighter jets have caused damage and triggered sirens as they fell back into Israeli airspace.

Israel has frequently accused the Syrian military of indiscriminately launching anti-aircraft missiles in response to Israeli strikes. Although Israels military generally refrains from commenting on specific operations in Syria, it has admitted to conducting numerous sorties over the past decade against Iran-backed groups attempting to establish a presence in the country. Israeli strikes have also targeted arms shipments believed to be destined for such groups, particularly Lebanons Hezbollah. Syrian air defense systems have also been the repeated targets of airstrikes attributed to Israel.

The most recent Israeli strike in Syria occurred on June 14, resulting in a soldier being seriously injured when IAF jets targeted a site near the capital, Damascus.

(YWN Israel Desk  Jerusalem)
For most passengers, airport security is a nightmare. Is toothpaste a liquid? What if a 200ml bottle is half-filled with sun cream? Do laptops have to be removed from their cases? And why is one member of the travelling party invariably held up because something in their rucksack looks suspicious?

Boring at best, nerve-racking at worse, the whole farrago has been a feature of air transport since 9/11 turned travelling on its head.

Now, finally, things are changing, as highly sophisticated scanners are able to discern whether objects are dangerous even if they remain in passengers' luggage.

Watching brief: For most passengers, airport security is a nightmare

Already in use in many US airports, the equipment is expected to be rolled out across Europe soon, easing air travel for millions, and helping airports shift many more passengers along the way.

Guildford-based DiscoverIE makes a crucial component of these scanners and business is brisk. The company last month reported an 18 per cent surge in sales to 449 million for the year to March 31, 2023, with profits rising 23 per cent to 46 million and the dividend up 6 per cent to 11.45p.

Chief executive Nick Jefferies also said that the new financial year had started well, with orders running above expectations.

Jefferies has run DiscoverIE since 2009. Formerly called Acal, the business was primarily known for distributing other firms' goods.

Today, DiscoverIE designs and makes everything it sells, focusing on complex electronic components in four areas  renewable energy, transport, medical devices and automated industrial equipment. End products range from components for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scanners to sensors on train doors.

In each case DiscoverIE works with manufacturers, designing products for their specific needs.

That means its parts are integral to each piece of equipment and contracts tend to last many years.

Jefferies believes the future looks bright for DiscoverIE. He is keen on acquisitions too and a number of deals are in the pipeline, which should boost prospects further.

Analysts are upbeat about the business as well, forecasting further growth this year and beyond, with the dividend rising to 12.1p next year and almost 13p in 2025.

Midas verdict: Midas recommended DiscoverIE in 2014, when the shares were 2.32. It tipped them again in 2021 at 6.72, saying they should continue to gain ground. The price has since risen to 8.40 and supporters believe they should exceed 10 within the next year or two. Existing shareholders should keep the faith. Investors looking for a strong British business with a rosy long-term future could also snap up some stock.

Traded on: Main market Ticker: DSCV Contact: disoverieplc.com or 01483 544 500
Marks & Spencer is at the centre of a row this weekend after telling its shareholders they should not attend its annual meeting because it has gone digital.

The retailer's AGMs were once famous for lavish hospitality and for small shareholders challenging the bosses on subjects ranging from the dividend to knicker elastic.

But this year the company has said any investors who arrive at the venue on Tuesday will not be able to talk to board members face-to-face and will not be offered refreshments.

Instead, they will be told to join the meeting 'electronically' on their phones or laptops  despite being there in person. The move follows a drive launched this spring by M&S chairman Archie Norman to modernise popular capitalism.

Small shareholder lobby groups who came out in support of his drive now say they are 'disappointed' and 'embarrassed'. They called upon the retailer to offer shareholders a 'hybrid' meeting where they can choose to attend in person as well as digitally.

Under fire: M&S chairman Archie Norman claims some investors have a 'misty-eyed' view of AGMs

In a letter to investors, M&S said: 'Shareholders are advised not to travel to the venue on the day as the meeting will be fully digitally enabled.'

Norman's Share Your Voice campaign advocates 'digital communication by default' and making it easier for private investors to have a say in how firms are run.

He won the endorsement of leading lobby groups for small investors including the UK Shareholders' Association and ShareSoc, as well as the Quoted Companies Alliance.

But these groups are upset at the hardline approach taken by M&S and want firms to have 'hybrid' meetings where investors are still welcome if they wish to attend in person. Mark Northway, of ShareSoc, said his organisation was 'surprised by the language used in the communication to shareholders'. He added that it still supports the overall aims of Share Your Voice but said: 'The M&S approach to this AGM has embarrassed us.'

He said he is 'disappointed' M&S wants a digital meeting and added ShareSoc has a 'strong preference for hybrid.' Shareholders could in theory still attend in person.

However, an M&S spokesman said 'it wouldn't be a very nice experience,' because it will be streamed from a small studio at its HQ in Paddington, central London, which will be hot and cramped. Lib Dem peer Lord Lee of Trafford, the patron of ShareSoc, has tabled a question to Government, asking whether ministers are considering obliging companies to hold 'hybrid' meetings.

He said: 'It is outrageously arrogant to exclude shareholders from attending the annual meeting physically and to say that the board is not prepared to meet them afterwards.' The UK Shareholders' Association said its board is 'firmly in favour of a hybrid approach and doesn't support virtual-only meetings'.

James Ashton, chief executive of the Quoted Companies Alliance, said firms are weighed down with costs and must be allowed to make better use of technology to reach more shareholders through cheaper means.

But he added: 'Those that see digital-first as a way of dodging difficult questions run the risk of depleting their shareholder base.'

Norman said: 'A lot of older shareholders have a misty-eyed view of AGMs and remember fondly the days when hundreds of shareholders would take the day off to attend town hall meetings.

'But the reality of contemporary life is very different now and many of the physical assemblies are ill attended. Because they require time off in the day, they exclude most working age people and people who live away from London.

'We have proven that with digital access and a digital friendly approach we can treble attendance and give access to many who would otherwise be shut out.

'We have dedicated space for any shareholder who chooses to still attend in person and we're not against hybrid AGMs, far from it. M&S has more private shareholder engagement than almost any other company.'

M&S has been holding hybrid meetings since the pandemic. In 2019 its old-style gathering was attended by 561 people, compared with 1,700 shareholders who logged on to its digital meeting last year.
Britain's biggest defence contractor has slammed the hike in UK corporation tax and said it was hampering UK growth.

Brad Greve, finance director at BAE Systems, is the latest executive to lash out at the tax, which was raised from 19 per cent to 25 per cent earlier this year despite a chorus of opposition from business.

'Our corporation tax doesn't help to encourage growth because it limits what we can do on the really critical capital investments that we want to do into the economy,' Greve told The Mail on Sunday.

Business leaders from ITV boss Carolyn McCall to Wetherspoons chairman Tim Martin voiced their opposition at the time the tax rose.

Drugs giant AstraZeneca revealed that rather than build a 320 million factory in England, it had decided it would do so in Ireland because of its low-tax environment.

Unhappy: Brad Greve is the latest executive to lash out at the tax, which was raised from 19 per cent to 25 per cent

Greve said BAE, which employs nearly 40,000 people in the UK and builds naval ships, fighter jets and submarines, appreciated the 'strong support' it had received from the Government's national security and defence policies.

But he added: 'We of course, like most companies, appreciate the carrot aspect of taxation as opposed to the stick.

'We think incentives are helpful in growing an economy, so we of course think lower corporate tax rates are healthy for growth.'

Greve was speaking as BAE published research from Oxford Economics showing the company contributed 11 billion to the UK economy last year, equivalent to 0.4 per cent of GDP.

The figure includes 770 million paid directly to the Treasury through national insurance and corporation tax.

More broadly, the report said, it also funds world-leading research and supports 49,000 jobs throughout its supply chain, plus thousands more in the communities where it operates, including its aerospace hub in Lancashire, submarine plant in Cumbria and shipyard in Glasgow. The company's own workforce has grown by more than 10 per cent since 2020.

Altogether, the report estimates, the company supports 132,000 jobs nationwide.

'If it's all done right, it means that everything grows, but the problem comes when you get a little bit too tilted towards one end of the taxation spectrum,' Greve said.

'What we'd like to see more of is incentives to invest in things that the Government cares about, like net zero.'

'If there were more incentives, I think that would just accelerate investment in these critical areas of technology to bring the economy to net zero faster.'
During our blazing June, Britons headed to the coast in record numbers. But how shattering to find that from Sheerness to Bognor Regis warning signs to steer clear had gone up on more than a dozen beaches because of sewage discharges.

When ownership of troubled Southern Water, which collects and treats waste water, was transferred for 1 billion to Australian investment bank Macquarie two years ago its new owner pledged 'a zero-tolerance mindset to environmental pollution' and to improve outcomes for one of the 'worst performers' in the water sector.

Admittedly, turning around problem utility firms can take time, but one might have hoped that by this summer it would have rendered the beaches in the resorts on the nation's south-eastern rim fit for bathers.

The mystery is why underwhelming water regulator Ofwat ever imagined the bank and infrastructure firm, which has earned the nickname of the 'Vampire Kangaroo', should ever have been allowed to take control of a privatised UK water company again. The history of Macquarie as a custodian of UK water assets has been a fiasco.

Stewardship by Macquarie of South East Water, which supplies water in much of the same area, was short-lived but profitable for investors. However, it demonstrated a liking for complex financial structures. This ought to have been a huge red flag.

Twisted: The history of Macquarie as a custodian of UK water assets has been a fiasco

Between 2003 and 2006 it turned its 386 million purchase into a 665 million sale value, extracting 60 million in dividends and loading the balance sheet with 458 million of debt. In spite of this, Macquarie was allowed to get its hands on the 15 million customers of Thames Water and more recently Southern Water. The Macquarie blueprint of financial engineering at South East Water proved to be its rehearsal for the plundering of Thames Water, which now has a 14 billion debt pile threatening its independent, free market future.

One of the great paradoxes about Macquarie is that in a world dominated by US financial behemoths it is a great non-American survivor with roots dating back to merchant banking in the City of London.

It started as the Aussie offshoot of City stalwart Hill Samuel, founded in 1832, which crashed in the 1970s after over-extending its commercial property investment including the Brighton Marina.

The name Macquarie derives from the British army officer responsible for turning the penal colony of New South Wales into a settlement. The Australian infant has since grown into the world's biggest infrastructure investor with almost half a trillion pounds of assets under its belt.

Under the stewardship of its British-born chief executive Shemara Wikramanayake the enterprise has taken on a green tint. Its rebirth as a climate change warrior was sparked in 2017 when the Tories decided to dismantle the Green Investment Bank, a LibDem coalition project. It was sold to Macquarie for 2.3 billion after a bitterly contested takeover battle.

The deal was a prelude to Macquarie becoming a global investor in wind farms and solar energy. As Macquarie has spread its wings becoming a major player in volatile commodity markets annual income soared to 3.1 billion and executives filled their boots. Commodities boss Nick O'Kane collected a pay cheque of 30.4 million  outpacing Wikramanayake, who had to make do with 17.2 million.

But no amount of greenwashing is ever going to make up for the vandalism of Macquarie at Thames Water. Private equity has done enormous amounts of harm to Britain from the defenestration of the historic department store chain Debenhams to the exploitation of care home residents by Blackstone at Southern Cross. But no deal has done more harm than Macquarie's purchase of Thames Water for 5.1 billion from German utility owner RWE in 2006.

At the time of the deal, as City Editor of the Daily Mail, I warned that Macquarie's reputation for financial engineering and its grasping stewardship of South East Water made it an unsuitable owner.

British-born: Macquarie chief executive Shemara Wikramanayake

This earned me an invitation to meet one of the firm's brash, young Aussie executives at offices in the City, where he proceeded to dress me down for not recognising the genius of the enterprise.

The Macquarie ownership set the scene for the destruction of Thames Water's reputation. It was under its ownership that London's streets became impassable as Victorian-era pipes sprung leaks. Most alarmingly, discharges on the Thames meant Cambridge and Oxford crews preparing for the Boat Race found themselves navigating around pools of raw sewage.

The worst of the damage was financial. The adoption of an extreme debt model, organised around the Cayman Island tax haven, saw the start of the build-up to the 14 billion debt mountain.

Macquarie did spend 11 billion, ladled on to customer bills, starting to modernise Victorian pipes. But under its ownership 2.7 billion was removed in dividends and a further 2 billion in loans. The pension fund deficit soared and the debt pile swelled from 3.4 billion on acquisition to 10.8 billion when it sold its final stake a decade later.

Successive Tory governments, pre- and post-Brexit, have bought into the thesis that the UK must always be open to inward investment from wherever it comes. Macquarie has exploited this prejudice ruthlessly and become the buyer of last resort for assets such as Thames Water, the Green Investment Bank and Southern Water.

Britain is now paying a heavy price for the failings in Whitehall, Westminster and among regulators to properly understand the risks.
City veteran Gerry Murphy has been lined up to replace John Allan as the chairman of Tesco, according to reports.

Murphy, 67, already chairs luxury fashion house Burberry and sweetener maker Tate & Lyle.

It comes after Allan left the group in May following a series of anonymous allegations of personal misconduct, including that he 'grabbed' an employee at an event in 2019. Allan has said this was 'simply untrue'.

Tesco's own investigation did not find any evidence of wrongdoing but it said that the claims of inappropriate behaviour risked becoming a distraction to the business.

Murphy has a long and experienced career in the retail industry.

New face: Gerry Murphy will step down from his role at Tate & Lyle on September 1 to make sure he has 'sufficient capacity' to act as chair of Tesco

He previously ran B&Q-owner Kingfisher and has sat on the boards of Dettol-maker Reckitt Benckiser and British American Tobacco and chaired the European arm of private equity titan Blackstone.

Murphy will step down from his role at Tate & Lyle on September 1 to make sure he has 'sufficient capacity' to act as chair of Tesco.

He will be joining the 17.7 billion supermarket at a time when the industry has been accused of profiteering and been under close scrutiny for posting huge profits during the cost-of-living crisis.

Last week, Tesco's commercial director Gordon Gafa defended the group in front of a committee of MPs, saying it was spending 560 million to keep prices low for shoppers. Allan was at the helm of Tesco for eight years. He arrived as the company was cutting thousands of jobs under plans laid out by then-chief executive Sir Dave Lewis.
TORONTO, June 29, 2023  Thomson Reuters (NYSE, TSX: TRI) announced today its second-quarter 2023 earnings will be issued via news release on Wednesday, August 2, 2023.

Steve Hasker, president and chief executive officer, and Mike Eastwood, chief financial officer, will host a conference call and simultaneous webcast that morning at 8:30 a.m. EDT. Discussions may include forward-looking information.

You can access the webcast by visiting the Investor Relations section of the Thomson Reuters website. Registration for the webcast is now open. Additionally, an archive of the webcast will be available following the presentation.

Thomson Reuters

Thomson Reuters (NYSE / TSX: TRI) (TR) informs the way forward by bringing together the trusted content and technology that people and organizations need to make the right decisions. The company serves professionals across legal, tax, accounting, compliance, government, and media. Its products combine highly specialized software and insights to empower professionals with the data, intelligence, and solutions needed to make informed decisions, and to help institutions in their pursuit of justice, truth, and transparency. Reuters, part of Thomson Reuters, is the worlds leading provider of trusted journalism and news. For more information, visit tr.com.

CONTACTS

MEDIA

Andrew Green

Senior Director, Corporate Affairs

+1 332 219 1511

andrew.green@tr.com

INVESTORS

Gary E. Bisbee, CFA

Head of Investor Relations

+1 646 540 3249

gary.bisbee@tr.com
DECATUR  Evan Foster knew even as a child that he was interested in a military career.

Starting about eighth grade, when we had a seminar about the service academies, West Point sparked my interest, said Foster. It kind of changed off and on whether I'd attend one of the academies, and I ended up deciding the Naval Academy would be the best fit for me.

Foster, a graduate of Maroa-Forsyth High School, is now a plebe (freshman) at the United States Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland, nominated by Rep. Rodney Davis. A nomination by a member of Congress is required to be considered, but that's no guarantee a student will be accepted. After that, prospective candidates have to go through an application and interview process, and only a handful make it.

Foster was also offered a spot at West Point back in December, said his stepfather, Patrick Rykhus, but when the Naval Academy offered a spot there, too, Foster accepted. He hopes to be a naval aviator, but for now, he's busy settling in.

I did attend a summer seminar at Navy last year, Foster said. It gave me a glimpse into what summer would look like as a plebe. It's a lot of working out, a lot of running, calisthenics, you have your three meals a day, a lot of information and material to commit to memory. They not-so-kindly ask if you remember all that stuff, he added with a chuckle. It's a lot of chaos and stuff going on all at once.

He knows he's going to be too busy to get homesick, though he will miss family and friends back home.

It's quite an accomplishment, Rykhus said. He got into West Point in December and we kind of thought he was going there, and maybe a month or two later, he got his acceptance into Navy and that was his No. 1 choice. We returned all our (Army) gear.

The first six weeks will be midshipman training for the Navy before classes begin.

According to the Naval Academy, approximately 1,200 candidates are selected each year for the academys plebe or freshman class, and each student is required to participate in Plebe Summer. During this time, plebes have no access to television, movies, the internet or music, and have restricted access to cellphones. They are only permitted to make three calls during the six weeks of Plebe Summer.

The pressure and rigor of Plebe Summer is carefully designed to help plebes prepare for their first academic year at the Naval Academy and the four years of challenge that await them. As the summer progresses, the new midshipmen rapidly assimilate basic skills in seamanship, navigation, damage control, sailing, and handling yard patrol craft. Plebes also learn infantry drill and how to shoot 9 mm pistols and M-16 rifles.

The plebes also spend their time on swimming, martial arts, basic rock climbing, and obstacle, endurance and confidence courses designed to develop physical, mental and team-building skills. Forty hours are devoted to the instruction of infantry drill and five formal parades.

The Naval Academy, founded in 1845, is ranked the No. 1 public school, No. 4 undergraduate engineering school, and No. 6 national liberal arts college, according to U.S. News & World Report. Students learn from military and civilian instructors. Midshipmen earn a Bachelor of Science degree in a choice of 26 different subject majors and go on to serve at least five years as commissioned officers in the U.S. Navy or U.S. Marine Corps.

Foster hopes to be chosen to be an aviator, which would require a longer term of service after graduation, and more training in flight school.

I'm excited, nervous, happy, sad, a little bit of everything, Foster said.

Photos: VP Harris first woman to give commencement address at US Naval Academy
Shares of TELUS International (Cda) Inc. (NYSE:TIXT  Free Report) have been given an average rating of Moderate Buy by the thirteen brokerages that are presently covering the company, Marketbeat Ratings reports. Four analysts have rated the stock with a hold recommendation and nine have given a buy recommendation to the company. The average twelve-month price target among brokers that have covered the stock in the last year is $26.42.

A number of analysts recently weighed in on the company. Canaccord Genuity Group assumed coverage on TELUS International (Cda) in a research note on Monday, April 24th. They issued a buy rating on the stock. TheStreet downgraded TELUS International (Cda) from a c- rating to a d+ rating in a research note on Thursday, May 4th. Finally, BMO Capital Markets decreased their price target on TELUS International (Cda) from $26.00 to $21.00 in a research note on Monday, May 8th.

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TELUS International (Cda) Trading Up 2.3 %

Shares of TIXT stock opened at $15.18 on Thursday. The businesss 50 day moving average is $16.60 and its two-hundred day moving average is $19.49. TELUS International has a twelve month low of $14.33 and a twelve month high of $31.52. The company has a market capitalization of $1.11 billion, a P/E ratio of 24.89, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 1.47 and a beta of 0.72. The company has a current ratio of 1.30, a quick ratio of 1.30 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.90.

Hedge Funds Weigh In On TELUS International (Cda)

TELUS International (Cda) ( NYSE:TIXT Free Report ) last announced its earnings results on Thursday, May 4th. The company reported $0.24 earnings per share for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $0.22 by $0.02. TELUS International (Cda) had a return on equity of 17.21% and a net margin of 6.38%. The company had revenue of $686.00 million for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $693.05 million. Equities analysts forecast that TELUS International will post 1.1 EPS for the current year.

Institutional investors have recently made changes to their positions in the stock. Advisor Group Holdings Inc. increased its stake in TELUS International (Cda) by 156.0% in the first quarter. Advisor Group Holdings Inc. now owns 9,241 shares of the companys stock valued at $228,000 after purchasing an additional 5,631 shares during the last quarter. JPMorgan Chase & Co. increased its stake in TELUS International (Cda) by 43.4% in the first quarter. JPMorgan Chase & Co. now owns 7,367 shares of the companys stock valued at $182,000 after purchasing an additional 2,228 shares during the last quarter. BlackRock Inc. increased its stake in TELUS International (Cda) by 39.2% in the first quarter. BlackRock Inc. now owns 23,362 shares of the companys stock valued at $577,000 after purchasing an additional 6,582 shares during the last quarter. Cibc World Market Inc. increased its stake in TELUS International (Cda) by 0.8% in the first quarter. Cibc World Market Inc. now owns 88,458 shares of the companys stock valued at $2,186,000 after purchasing an additional 728 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Canada Pension Plan Investment Board increased its stake in TELUS International (Cda) by 39.8% in the first quarter. Canada Pension Plan Investment Board now owns 71,700 shares of the companys stock valued at $1,774,000 after purchasing an additional 20,400 shares during the last quarter. 61.30% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

TELUS International (Cda) Company Profile

(Free Report

TELUS International (Cda) Inc design, builds, and delivers digital solutions for customer experience (CX) in Europe, North America, the Asia-Pacific, and the Central America. The company provides digital experience solutions, such as AI and bots, omnichannel CX, enterprise mobility solutions, cloud contact center, big data analytics, platform transformation, and UX/UI design; and customer experience solutions, including work anywhere/work from home, contact center outsourcing, technical support, sales growth and customer retention, healthcare/patient experience, and debt collection.

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Huatai Securities Co., Ltd. (OTCMKTS:HUATF  Free Report) saw a significant decline in short interest in June. As of June 15th, there was short interest totalling 773,500 shares, a decline of 64.4% from the May 31st total of 2,170,800 shares. Based on an average daily trading volume, of 7,500 shares, the short-interest ratio is currently 103.1 days.

Huatai Securities Stock Performance

OTCMKTS HUATF opened at 1.25 on Friday. Huatai Securities has a 1-year low of 1.12 and a 1-year high of 1.25. The company has a 50 day moving average of 1.25 and a 200-day moving average of 1.25.

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About Huatai Securities

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Huatai Securities Co, Ltd., a security company, provides financial services in Mainland China and internationally. The company buys and sells stocks, funds, bonds, futures, and options on behalf of clients; and provides various financial products and asset allocation, margin financing, securities lending, securities-backed lending, and margin securities lending services.

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StockNews.com started coverage on shares of China Pharma (NYSE:CPHI  Free Report) in a research report report published on Thursday morning. The firm issued a hold rating on the stock.

China Pharma Stock Performance

Shares of CPHI stock opened at $0.34 on Thursday. China Pharma has a 52-week low of $0.27 and a 52-week high of $2.60. The firm has a 50-day moving average of $0.35.

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China Pharma (NYSE:CPHI  Free Report) last posted its quarterly earnings results on Friday, May 12th. The company reported ($0.06) earnings per share for the quarter. The company had revenue of $1.96 million for the quarter. China Pharma had a negative return on equity of 86.48% and a negative net margin of 40.43%.

China Pharma Company Profile

China Pharma Holdings, Inc develops, manufactures, and markets generic and branded pharmaceutical, and biochemical products primarily to hospitals and private retailers in the People's Republic of China. The company offers products in the form of dry powder injectables, liquid injectables, tablets, capsules, and cephalosporin oral solutions.

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Barclays started coverage on shares of Banco Latinoamericano de Comercio Exterior, S. A. (NYSE:BLX  Free Report) in a research report released on Thursday, The Fly reports. The brokerage issued an overweight rating and a $32.00 price target on the banks stock.

Separately, StockNews.com began coverage on shares of Banco Latinoamericano de Comercio Exterior, S. A. in a report on Thursday, May 18th. They set a hold rating for the company.

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Banco Latinoamericano de Comercio Exterior, S. A. Stock Up 1.7 %

Shares of BLX stock opened at $22.06 on Thursday. The company has a market capitalization of $801.33 million, a P/E ratio of 6.81 and a beta of 1.15. Banco Latinoamericano de Comercio Exterior, S. A. has a 12-month low of $13.00 and a 12-month high of $22.11. The firm has a 50-day moving average price of $19.63 and a 200 day moving average price of $17.93.

Banco Latinoamericano de Comercio Exterior, S. A. Dividend Announcement

Banco Latinoamericano de Comercio Exterior, S. A. ( NYSE:BLX Free Report ) last issued its quarterly earnings results on Tuesday, April 18th. The bank reported $1.02 EPS for the quarter. Banco Latinoamericano de Comercio Exterior, S. A. had a net margin of 26.11% and a return on equity of 11.15%. The company had revenue of $59.20 million during the quarter.

The firm also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Wednesday, May 17th. Investors of record on Thursday, May 4th were issued a dividend of $0.25 per share. This represents a $1.00 annualized dividend and a yield of 4.53%. The ex-dividend date was Wednesday, May 3rd. Banco Latinoamericano de Comercio Exterior, S. A.s payout ratio is 30.86%.

Institutional Trading of Banco Latinoamericano de Comercio Exterior, S. A.

Large investors have recently added to or reduced their stakes in the company. Uniplan Investment Counsel Inc. acquired a new stake in Banco Latinoamericano de Comercio Exterior, S. A. in the third quarter valued at $1,630,000. Thomas White International Ltd. increased its holdings in Banco Latinoamericano de Comercio Exterior, S. A. by 0.3% in the 1st quarter. Thomas White International Ltd. now owns 353,718 shares of the banks stock valued at $5,510,000 after buying an additional 1,021 shares during the period. Rhumbline Advisers boosted its stake in shares of Banco Latinoamericano de Comercio Exterior, S. A. by 2.3% in the 1st quarter. Rhumbline Advisers now owns 42,209 shares of the banks stock valued at $734,000 after purchasing an additional 957 shares in the last quarter. Finally, LSV Asset Management boosted its position in Banco Latinoamericano de Comercio Exterior, S. A. by 1.7% during the 4th quarter. LSV Asset Management now owns 972,198 shares of the banks stock worth $15,750,000 after buying an additional 15,990 shares during the period. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 6.92% of the companys stock.

About Banco Latinoamericano de Comercio Exterior, S. A.

(Free Report)

Banco Latinoamericano de Comercio Exterior, S. A., a multinational bank, primarily engages in the financing of foreign trade in Latin America and the Caribbean. The company operates through two segments, Commercial and Treasury. It also offers bilateral loans; structured loans including syndicated and clubbed, such as acquisition and pre-export financing, A/B loan financing, bridge loans, and liability management; and project financing.

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Credit Suisse Group cut shares of Pfizer (NYSE:PFE  Free Report) from an outperform rating to a neutral rating in a research report released on Thursday, The Fly reports. They currently have $40.00 price target on the biopharmaceutical companys stock, down from their prior price target of $47.00.

Other equities research analysts have also recently issued research reports about the stock. Cantor Fitzgerald reaffirmed an overweight rating on shares of Pfizer in a research note on Wednesday, May 17th. Morgan Stanley decreased their target price on Pfizer from $45.00 to $44.00 and set an equal weight rating on the stock in a research report on Monday, April 10th. StockNews.com assumed coverage on Pfizer in a research report on Thursday, May 18th. They set a buy rating on the stock. Barclays decreased their target price on Pfizer from $43.00 to $40.00 in a research report on Wednesday, May 3rd. Finally, Wells Fargo & Company decreased their price objective on Pfizer from $50.00 to $44.00 and set an equal weight rating on the stock in a report on Friday, March 17th. Eleven investment analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and three have assigned a buy rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat.com, Pfizer has a consensus rating of Hold and an average price target of $46.67.

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Pfizer Stock Up 1.6 %

NYSE:PFE opened at $36.68 on Thursday. Pfizer has a twelve month low of $35.76 and a twelve month high of $54.93. The company has a market cap of $207.07 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 7.22, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 1.20 and a beta of 0.64. The stock has a fifty day simple moving average of $38.32 and a 200-day simple moving average of $42.14. The company has a current ratio of 1.37, a quick ratio of 1.11 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.31.

Pfizer Dividend Announcement

Pfizer ( NYSE:PFE Free Report ) last released its quarterly earnings data on Tuesday, May 2nd. The biopharmaceutical company reported $1.23 earnings per share for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $1.00 by $0.23. The firm had revenue of $18.28 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $16.49 billion. Pfizer had a return on equity of 37.53% and a net margin of 31.25%. The firms quarterly revenue was down 28.8% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period in the previous year, the company posted $1.62 earnings per share. Analysts anticipate that Pfizer will post 3.35 EPS for the current year.

The company also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Tuesday, September 5th. Shareholders of record on Friday, July 28th will be issued a $0.41 dividend. This represents a $1.64 annualized dividend and a yield of 4.47%. The ex-dividend date is Thursday, July 27th. Pfizers dividend payout ratio (DPR) is 32.28%.

Insider Buying and Selling at Pfizer

In related news, Director Scott Gottlieb acquired 1,000 shares of Pfizer stock in a transaction dated Monday, May 8th. The shares were acquired at an average cost of $38.58 per share, for a total transaction of $38,580.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the director now directly owns 6,000 shares of the companys stock, valued at $231,480. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is accessible through this link. 0.05% of the stock is owned by corporate insiders.

Hedge Funds Weigh In On Pfizer

Several large investors have recently added to or reduced their stakes in the business. Vanguard Group Inc. lifted its position in Pfizer by 1.1% during the third quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 493,584,761 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock worth $21,599,270,000 after buying an additional 5,139,634 shares during the period. BlackRock Inc. lifted its holdings in Pfizer by 0.6% during the 1st quarter. BlackRock Inc. now owns 445,384,893 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock worth $18,171,704,000 after buying an additional 2,516,132 shares during the last quarter. Wellington Management Group LLP lifted its holdings in Pfizer by 9.8% during the 1st quarter. Wellington Management Group LLP now owns 218,931,933 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock worth $8,932,423,000 after buying an additional 19,602,359 shares during the last quarter. Moneta Group Investment Advisors LLC lifted its holdings in shares of Pfizer by 89,592.7% in the 4th quarter. Moneta Group Investment Advisors LLC now owns 161,143,638 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock worth $8,257,000,000 after purchasing an additional 160,963,976 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Geode Capital Management LLC lifted its holdings in shares of Pfizer by 0.5% in the 1st quarter. Geode Capital Management LLC now owns 109,852,779 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock worth $4,472,433,000 after purchasing an additional 577,201 shares during the last quarter. 67.80% of the stock is currently owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

About Pfizer

(Free Report)

Pfizer Inc discovers, develops, manufactures, markets, distributes, and sells biopharmaceutical products worldwide. It offers medicines and vaccines in various therapeutic areas, including cardiovascular metabolic, migraine, and women's health under the Eliquis, Nurtec ODT/Vydura, and the Premarin family brands; infectious diseases with unmet medical needs under the Prevnar family, Nimenrix, FSME/IMMUN-TicoVac, and Trumenba brands; and COVID-19 prevention and treatment, and potential future mRNA and antiviral products under the Comirnaty and Paxlovid brands.

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MEG Energy (OTCMKTS:MEGEF  Free Report) had its price objective cut by National Bank Financial from C$29.00 to C$27.00 in a research note issued to investors on Thursday, The Fly reports.

Other research analysts also recently issued reports about the company. Scotiabank raised MEG Energy from a sector perform rating to an outperform rating in a report on Tuesday, May 23rd. Royal Bank of Canada downgraded MEG Energy from an outperform rating to a sector perform rating in a report on Wednesday, April 12th. Three research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and two have issued a buy rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat, the stock presently has a consensus rating of Hold and an average target price of $23.86.

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MEG Energy Price Performance

Shares of MEGEF opened at $15.85 on Thursday. MEG Energy has a one year low of $10.10 and a one year high of $17.75. The businesss 50 day simple moving average is $15.60 and its 200-day simple moving average is $15.46.

MEG Energy Company Profile

MEG Energy Corp., an energy company, focuses on sustainable in situ thermal oil production in the southern Athabasca oil region of Alberta, Canada. The company develops oil recovery projects that utilize steam-assisted gravity drainage extraction methods to improve the recovery of oil, as well as lower carbon emissions.

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Louisiana State Employees Retirement System decreased its holdings in Reinsurance Group of America, Incorporated (NYSE:RGA  Free Report) by 1.1% during the first quarter, according to the company in its most recent disclosure with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The firm owned 17,700 shares of the insurance providers stock after selling 200 shares during the period. Louisiana State Employees Retirement Systems holdings in Reinsurance Group of America were worth $2,350,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission.

A number of other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also bought and sold shares of the business. Covenant Partners LLC increased its stake in Reinsurance Group of America by 7.1% in the first quarter. Covenant Partners LLC now owns 2,020 shares of the insurance providers stock worth $268,000 after purchasing an additional 134 shares during the period. Oliver Luxxe Assets LLC grew its position in shares of Reinsurance Group of America by 6.5% during the 1st quarter. Oliver Luxxe Assets LLC now owns 4,047 shares of the insurance providers stock worth $537,000 after buying an additional 246 shares in the last quarter. Park Avenue Securities LLC grew its position in shares of Reinsurance Group of America by 5.2% during the 1st quarter. Park Avenue Securities LLC now owns 12,706 shares of the insurance providers stock worth $1,687,000 after buying an additional 626 shares in the last quarter. Outlook Wealth Advisors LLC bought a new position in shares of Reinsurance Group of America during the 1st quarter worth $314,000. Finally, Assenagon Asset Management S.A. grew its position in shares of Reinsurance Group of America by 25.9% during the 1st quarter. Assenagon Asset Management S.A. now owns 176,568 shares of the insurance providers stock worth $23,441,000 after buying an additional 36,339 shares in the last quarter. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 93.60% of the companys stock.

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Reinsurance Group of America Trading Up 0.5 %

Reinsurance Group of America stock opened at $138.69 on Friday. The stock has a 50-day moving average of $143.59 and a two-hundred day moving average of $141.85. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.58, a quick ratio of 0.14 and a current ratio of 0.14. Reinsurance Group of America, Incorporated has a one year low of $112.23 and a one year high of $153.35. The stock has a market cap of $9.23 billion, a PE ratio of 10.01 and a beta of 0.91.

Reinsurance Group of America Dividend Announcement

Reinsurance Group of America ( NYSE:RGA Free Report ) last released its quarterly earnings results 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 return on equity of 23.94% and a net margin of 5.66%. The company had revenue of $4.25 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $4.23 billion. During the same period last year, the business posted $0.47 earnings per share. On average, research analysts anticipate that Reinsurance Group of America, Incorporated will post 17.77 EPS 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 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 2.31%. The ex-dividend date was Monday, May 15th. Reinsurance Group of Americas payout ratio is 23.10%.

Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

RGA has been the topic of a number of recent research reports. Credit Suisse Group increased their price target on Reinsurance Group of America from $144.00 to $152.00 in a research report on Wednesday, May 24th. Jefferies Financial Group downgraded Reinsurance Group of America from a buy rating to a hold rating and dropped their price target for the stock from $170.00 to $160.00 in a research report on Friday, June 23rd. 58.com reissued a maintains rating on shares of Reinsurance Group of America in a research report on Wednesday, May 24th. Citigroup raised Reinsurance Group of America from a sell rating to a buy rating and raised their price objective for the company from $133.00 to $158.00 in a research report on Wednesday, March 15th. Finally, Barclays raised their price objective on Reinsurance Group of America from $149.00 to $151.00 in a research report on Friday, June 16th. Four 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 companys stock. According to MarketBeat.com, the stock presently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $161.55.

Insider Transactions at Reinsurance Group of America

In other news, CFO Todd C. Larson sold 1,018 shares of the firms stock in a transaction dated Tuesday, May 16th. The stock was sold at an average price of $148.96, for a total value of $151,641.28. Following the completion of the transaction, the chief financial officer now directly owns 44,260 shares in the company, valued at $6,592,969.60. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which is available at the SEC website. In other news, CFO Todd C. Larson sold 1,018 shares of the firms stock in a transaction dated Tuesday, May 16th. The stock was sold at an average price of $148.96, for a total value of $151,641.28. Following the completion of the transaction, the chief financial officer now directly owns 44,260 shares in the company, valued at $6,592,969.60. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which is available at the SEC website. Also, EVP William L. Hutton sold 1,952 shares of Reinsurance Group of America stock in a transaction that occurred 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 transaction, the executive vice president now owns 13,970 shares of the companys stock, valued at $2,095,919.10. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Company insiders own 1.31% of the companys stock.

About Reinsurance Group of America

(Free Report)

Reinsurance Group of America, Incorporated engages in reinsurance business. The company offers individual and group life and health insurance products, such as term life, credit life, universal life, whole life, group life and health, joint and last survivor insurance, critical illness, disability, and longevity products; asset-intensive and financial reinsurance products; and other capital motivated solutions.

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Louisiana State Employees Retirement System raised its stake in shares of American International Group, Inc. (NYSE:AIG  Free Report) by 0.6% in the first quarter, according to the company in its most recent 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The institutional investor owned 48,300 shares of the insurance providers stock after buying an additional 300 shares during the quarter. Louisiana State Employees Retirement Systems holdings in American International Group were worth $2,432,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).

A number of other institutional investors have also added to or reduced their stakes in AIG. Accurate Wealth Management LLC purchased a new stake in American International Group during the 4th quarter valued at approximately $25,000. Arcus Capital Partners LLC purchased a new stake in American International Group during the 4th quarter valued at approximately $25,000. U.S. Capital Wealth Advisors LLC purchased a new stake in American International Group during the 4th quarter valued at approximately $28,000. International Assets Investment Management LLC purchased a new stake in American International Group during the 4th quarter valued at approximately $29,000. Finally, Eagle Bay Advisors LLC grew its holdings in American International Group by 197.7% during the 3rd quarter. Eagle Bay Advisors LLC now owns 762 shares of the insurance providers stock valued at $36,000 after buying an additional 506 shares in the last quarter. 88.18% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

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American International Group Stock Up 0.6 %

Shares of AIG opened at $57.54 on Friday. American International Group, Inc. has a 52-week low of $45.66 and a 52-week high of $64.88. The company has a market cap of $41.64 billion, a PE ratio of 7.51, a P/E/G ratio of 0.88 and a beta of 1.12. The business has a fifty day moving average of $54.41 and a 200 day moving average of $56.77. The company has a quick ratio of 0.30, a current ratio of 0.30 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.09.

American International Group Increases Dividend

American International Group ( NYSE:AIG Free Report ) last released its earnings results on Friday, May 5th. The insurance provider reported $1.63 earnings per share for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $1.43 by $0.20. American International Group had a return on equity of 8.55% and a net margin of 11.71%. The business had revenue of $10.98 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $11.35 billion. During the same period last year, the company earned $1.30 earnings per share. On average, sell-side analysts expect that American International Group, Inc. will post 6.5 EPS for the current year.

The firm also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, June 30th. Stockholders of record on Friday, June 16th were given a dividend of $0.36 per share. This represents a $1.44 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 2.50%. This is an increase from American International Groups previous quarterly dividend of $0.32. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Thursday, June 15th. American International Groups dividend payout ratio (DPR) is 18.80%.

Analysts Set New Price Targets

A number of research analysts recently weighed in on AIG shares. StockNews.com started coverage on shares of American International Group in a report on Thursday, May 18th. They issued a hold rating for the company. Bank of America cut their target price on shares of American International Group from $73.00 to $68.00 in a report on Friday, June 2nd. Barclays raised their target price on shares of American International Group from $55.00 to $58.00 in a report on Tuesday, May 9th. Piper Sandler raised their target price on shares of American International Group from $76.00 to $77.00 in a report on Tuesday, May 23rd. Finally, Keefe, Bruyette & Woods cut their target price on shares of American International Group from $76.00 to $73.00 and set an outperform rating for the company in a report on Tuesday, April 18th. Nine analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and six have given a buy rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the company presently has an average rating of Hold and an average target price of $66.86.

Insider Transactions at American International Group

In other news, major shareholder International Group American sold 10,981,108 shares of American International Group stock in a transaction on Friday, June 23rd. The stock was sold at an average price of $16.41, for a total transaction of $180,199,982.28. Following the completion of the sale, the insider now directly owns 415,413,892 shares in the company, valued at $6,816,941,967.72. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which can be accessed through the SEC website. Corporate insiders own 0.49% of the companys stock.

American International Group Profile

(Free Report)

American International Group, Inc offers insurance products for commercial, institutional, and individual customers in North America and internationally. It operates through General Insurance, and Life and Retirement segments. The General Insurance segment provides commercial and industrial property insurance, including business interruption and package insurance that cover exposure to made and natural disasters; general liability, environmental, commercial automobile liability, workers' compensation, excess casualty, and crisis management insurance products; and professional liability insurance.

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Louisiana State Employees Retirement System lowered its stake in shares of Cleveland-Cliffs Inc. (NYSE:CLF  Free Report) by 0.9% during the first quarter, Holdings Channel reports. The fund owned 136,700 shares of the mining companys stock after selling 1,300 shares during the quarter. Louisiana State Employees Retirement Systems holdings in Cleveland-Cliffs were worth $2,506,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

A number of other large investors have also made changes to their positions in CLF. State Street Corp boosted its stake in Cleveland-Cliffs by 18.6% in the 2nd quarter. State Street Corp now owns 21,000,065 shares of the mining companys stock worth $322,771,000 after buying an additional 3,295,448 shares during the last quarter. Norges Bank acquired a new stake in Cleveland-Cliffs in the 4th quarter worth about $50,678,000. Encompass Capital Advisors LLC acquired a new stake in Cleveland-Cliffs in the 4th quarter worth about $45,544,000. Vanguard Group Inc. lifted its stake in shares of Cleveland-Cliffs by 5.4% in the 1st quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 44,506,741 shares of the mining companys stock valued at $1,433,561,000 after purchasing an additional 2,276,018 shares in the last quarter. Finally, First Trust Advisors LP lifted its stake in shares of Cleveland-Cliffs by 176.8% in the 1st quarter. First Trust Advisors LP now owns 3,006,668 shares of the mining companys stock valued at $96,845,000 after purchasing an additional 1,920,377 shares in the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 62.92% of the companys stock.

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Insiders Place Their Bets

In other news, CEO Lourenco Goncalves bought 100,000 shares of the firms stock in a transaction dated Thursday, April 27th. The stock was bought at an average price of $14.96 per share, for a total transaction of $1,496,000.00. Following the transaction, the chief executive officer now owns 2,464,885 shares in the company, valued at $36,874,679.60. The purchase was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is accessible through this link. In other news, CEO Lourenco Goncalves bought 100,000 shares of the firms stock in a transaction dated Thursday, April 27th. The stock was bought at an average price of $14.96 per share, for a total transaction of $1,496,000.00. Following the transaction, the chief executive officer now owns 2,464,885 shares in the company, valued at $36,874,679.60. The purchase was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is accessible through this link. Also, EVP Keith Koci bought 7,300 shares of the firms stock in a transaction dated Thursday, April 27th. The stock was purchased at an average price of $14.87 per share, with a total value of $108,551.00. Following the transaction, the executive vice president now owns 383,358 shares in the company, valued at approximately $5,700,533.46. The disclosure for this purchase can be found here. Insiders have acquired 125,300 shares of company stock worth $1,875,531 in the last three months. 1.57% of the stock is owned by insiders.

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

Cleveland-Cliffs Price Performance

CLF has been the topic of several research analyst reports. Wolfe Research raised Cleveland-Cliffs from an underperform rating to a peer perform rating in a research note on Monday, March 20th. StockNews.com lowered Cleveland-Cliffs from a hold rating to a sell rating in a research note on Wednesday, May 31st. Finally, JPMorgan Chase & Co. initiated coverage on Cleveland-Cliffs in a research note on Tuesday, May 23rd. They issued a neutral rating and a $18.00 price objective on the stock. Two equities research analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, six have issued a hold rating and five have given a buy rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat, the company presently has a consensus rating of Hold and an average target price of $20.53.

CLF stock opened at $16.76 on Friday. The company has a quick ratio of 0.73, a current ratio of 2.15 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.59. Cleveland-Cliffs Inc. has a 52-week low of $11.82 and a 52-week high of $22.83. The stocks 50 day moving average is $15.41 and its two-hundred day moving average is $17.64. The company has a market capitalization of $8.63 billion, a PE ratio of 18.62 and a beta of 2.21.

Cleveland-Cliffs (NYSE:CLF  Free Report) last posted its quarterly earnings data on Tuesday, April 25th. The mining company reported ($0.11) earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of ($0.20) by $0.09. Cleveland-Cliffs had a return on equity of 8.32% and a net margin of 2.14%. The company had revenue of $5.30 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $5.21 billion. During the same period in the previous year, the business earned $1.71 EPS. Cleveland-Cliffss revenue for the quarter was down 11.1% compared to the same quarter last year. Analysts predict that Cleveland-Cliffs Inc. will post 2.15 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

About Cleveland-Cliffs

(Free Report)

Cleveland-Cliffs is the largest flat-rolled steel company and the largest iron ore pellet producer in North America. The company is vertically integrated from mining through iron making, steelmaking, rolling, finishing and downstream with hot and cold stamping of steel parts and components. The company was formerly known as Cliffs Natural Resources Inc and changed its name to Cleveland-Cliffs Inc in August 2017.

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LGT Group Foundation reduced its stake in shares of Materion Co. (NYSE:MTRN  Free Report) by 40.4% in the first quarter, according to its most recent filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The firm owned 27,182 shares of the basic materials companys stock after selling 18,440 shares during the period. LGT Group Foundation owned about 0.13% of Materion worth $3,153,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

Other large investors also recently modified their holdings of the company. American Century Companies Inc. purchased a new stake in Materion in the 1st quarter worth about $392,000. Citigroup Inc. boosted its position in Materion by 11.8% during the first quarter. Citigroup Inc. now owns 17,656 shares of the basic materials companys stock worth $1,514,000 after purchasing an additional 1,861 shares during the period. Bank of Montreal Can increased its stake in shares of Materion by 7.5% in the first quarter. Bank of Montreal Can now owns 7,835 shares of the basic materials companys stock worth $682,000 after purchasing an additional 544 shares in the last quarter. MetLife Investment Management LLC lifted its stake in shares of Materion by 50.4% during the 1st quarter. MetLife Investment Management LLC now owns 11,008 shares of the basic materials companys stock valued at $944,000 after buying an additional 3,687 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Rhumbline Advisers boosted its holdings in Materion by 2.6% in the 1st quarter. Rhumbline Advisers now owns 61,589 shares of the basic materials companys stock worth $5,281,000 after buying an additional 1,545 shares during the period. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 93.24% of the companys stock.

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Insider Buying and Selling

In other Materion news, VP Gregory R. Chemnitz sold 2,378 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction that occurred on Wednesday, May 17th. The shares were sold at an average price of $102.05, for a total value of $242,674.90. Following the completion of the transaction, the vice president now owns 19,310 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $1,970,585.50. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is available through this link. In other Materion news, VP Gregory R. Chemnitz sold 2,378 shares of Materion stock in a transaction dated Wednesday, May 17th. The stock was sold at an average price of $102.05, for a total transaction of $242,674.90. Following the completion of the sale, the vice president now owns 19,310 shares of the companys stock, valued at $1,970,585.50. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is available at the SEC website. Also, Director Emily M. Liggett sold 2,398 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated Monday, May 8th. The stock was sold at an average price of $104.59, for a total value of $250,806.82. Following the completion of the transaction, the director now owns 2,621 shares of the companys stock, valued at $274,130.39. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. 2.30% of the stock is owned by company insiders.

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

Materion Stock Performance

A number of brokerages have issued reports on MTRN. CL King boosted their target price on shares of Materion from $123.00 to $126.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a report on Tuesday, April 18th. StockNews.com raised Materion from a hold rating to a buy rating in a report on Monday, June 26th.

NYSE MTRN opened at $114.20 on Friday. The companys 50 day simple moving average is $107.18 and its two-hundred day simple moving average is $102.71. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.51, a current ratio of 2.85 and a quick ratio of 1.08. Materion Co. has a 1 year low of $64.89 and a 1 year high of $121.29. The stock has a market capitalization of $2.35 billion, a PE ratio of 24.35 and a beta of 1.08.

Materion (NYSE:MTRN  Free Report) last issued its quarterly earnings data on Wednesday, May 3rd. The basic materials company reported $1.34 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $1.29 by $0.05. Materion had a return on equity of 14.03% and a net margin of 5.57%. The company had revenue of $442.50 million for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $447.10 million. During the same quarter last year, the business posted $1.20 earnings per share. The firms revenue was down 1.5% compared to the same quarter last year. Analysts predict that Materion Co. will post 5.78 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

Materion Increases Dividend

The firm also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Thursday, June 15th. Stockholders of record on Wednesday, May 31st were issued a dividend of $0.13 per share. This is a positive change from Materions previous quarterly dividend of $0.13. The ex-dividend date was Tuesday, May 30th. This represents a $0.52 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 0.46%. Materions payout ratio is presently 11.09%.

Materion Profile

(Free Report)

Materion Corporation, through with its subsidiaries, produces advanced engineered materials used in semiconductor, industrial, aerospace and defense, automotive, energy, consumer electronics, and telecom and data center in the United States, Asia, Europe, and internationally. It operates through Performance Materials, Electronic Materials, and Precision Optics segments.

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CHICAGO  A shooting on Chicago's Southwest Side killed one man and wounded three others, police said.

The four men were standing outside on a sidewalk in the Chicago Lawn neighborhood around 8:15 p.m. Friday when a car approached and someone inside the vehicle fired multiple shots in their direction, police said.

A 23-year-old man shot in the buttocks was taken to the University of Chicago Medical Center in critical condition and was later pronounced dead, police said.

The three others were taken to hospitals in good condition, police said: a 24-year-old man shot in the left knee, a 27-year-old with three gunshot wounds to the thigh, and a 58-year-old shot in the hip and lower back.

No arrests had been made by Saturday afternoon.

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Assenagon Asset Management S.A. reduced its position in Exxon Mobil Co. (NYSE:XOM  Free Report) by 76.6% during the first quarter, according to the company in its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The fund owned 609,185 shares of the oil and gas companys stock after selling 1,997,753 shares during the period. Assenagon Asset Management S.A.s holdings in Exxon Mobil were worth $66,803,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).

A number of other institutional investors and hedge funds have also recently modified their holdings of XOM. Axiom Financial Strategies LLC lifted its position in Exxon Mobil by 17.4% during the first quarter. Axiom Financial Strategies LLC now owns 7,909 shares of the oil and gas companys stock valued at $680,000 after purchasing an additional 1,173 shares in the last quarter. Retirement Income Solutions Inc purchased a new position in Exxon Mobil during the first quarter valued at $275,000. Loomis Sayles & Co. L P lifted its position in Exxon Mobil by 318.8% during the first quarter. Loomis Sayles & Co. L P now owns 17,163 shares of the oil and gas companys stock valued at $1,417,000 after purchasing an additional 13,065 shares in the last quarter. Ergoteles LLC lifted its position in Exxon Mobil by 95.6% during the first quarter. Ergoteles LLC now owns 15,843 shares of the oil and gas companys stock valued at $1,308,000 after purchasing an additional 7,744 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Bridgefront Capital LLC purchased a new position in Exxon Mobil during the first quarter valued at $237,000. 58.59% of the stock is currently owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

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Insider Buying and Selling at Exxon Mobil

In other Exxon Mobil news, VP Darrin L. Talley sold 2,500 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, May 1st. The stock was sold at an average price of $116.11, for a total transaction of $290,275.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the vice president now owns 29,272 shares in the company, valued at $3,398,771.92. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which can be accessed through this link. Company insiders own 0.06% of the companys stock.

Analyst Ratings Changes

Exxon Mobil Trading Up 0.5 %

Several research firms recently weighed in on XOM. The Goldman Sachs Group downgraded Exxon Mobil from a buy rating to a neutral rating and set a $125.00 target price on the stock. in a research report on Monday, May 1st. UBS Group raised Exxon Mobil from a neutral rating to a buy rating and raised their price target for the company from $125.00 to $144.00 in a report on Tuesday, April 18th. Royal Bank of Canada cut Exxon Mobil from an outperform rating to a sector perform rating and set a $125.00 price target on the stock. in a report on Thursday, June 1st. Piper Sandler decreased their price target on Exxon Mobil from $145.00 to $127.00 in a report on Tuesday, June 13th. Finally, Morgan Stanley raised their price target on Exxon Mobil from $118.00 to $122.00 in a report on Tuesday, May 2nd. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, nine have assigned a hold rating and twelve have given a buy rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat, the company presently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $124.70.

XOM opened at $107.25 on Friday. The firm has a market cap of $433.61 billion, a P/E ratio of 7.26, a P/E/G ratio of 0.62 and a beta of 1.09. Exxon Mobil Co. has a 12 month low of $80.69 and a 12 month high of $119.92. The company has a current ratio of 1.46, a quick ratio of 1.10 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.19. The stock has a 50-day moving average of $107.10 and a 200 day moving average of $109.65.

Exxon Mobil (NYSE:XOM  Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings results on Friday, April 28th. The oil and gas company reported $2.83 EPS for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $2.65 by $0.18. The company had revenue of $86.56 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $90.07 billion. Exxon Mobil had a return on equity of 31.48% and a net margin of 15.06%. The firms revenue was down 4.3% on a year-over-year basis. During the same quarter last year, the business posted $2.07 earnings per share. As a group, research analysts forecast that Exxon Mobil Co. will post 9.59 EPS for the current year.

Exxon Mobil Dividend Announcement

The firm also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, June 9th. Shareholders of record on Tuesday, May 16th were given a dividend of $0.91 per share. The ex-dividend date was Monday, May 15th. This represents a $3.64 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 3.39%. Exxon Mobils dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 24.64%.

About Exxon Mobil

(Free Report)

Exxon Mobil Corporation engages in the exploration and production of crude oil and natural gas in the United States and internationally. It operates through Upstream, Energy Products, Chemical Products, and Specialty Products segments. The Upstream segment explores for and produces crude oil and natural gas.

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Nordea Investment Management AB grew its stake in shares of Coterra Energy Inc. (NYSE:CTRA  Free Report) by 1.4% during the 1st quarter, according to its most recent 13F filing with the SEC. The institutional investor owned 768,009 shares of the companys stock after purchasing an additional 10,834 shares during the period. Nordea Investment Management ABs holdings in Coterra Energy were worth $18,716,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

Other institutional investors also recently made changes to their positions in the company. Pinnacle Associates Ltd. boosted its position in shares of Coterra Energy by 12.3% during the 4th quarter. Pinnacle Associates Ltd. now owns 16,225 shares of the companys stock worth $448,000 after purchasing an additional 1,777 shares in the last quarter. Venture Visionary Partners LLC purchased a new position in Coterra Energy in the 1st quarter valued at about $437,000. Copeland Capital Management LLC lifted its holdings in Coterra Energy by 29.9% in the 4th quarter. Copeland Capital Management LLC now owns 763,106 shares of the companys stock valued at $18,750,000 after purchasing an additional 175,770 shares in the last quarter. Treasurer of the State of North Carolina lifted its holdings in Coterra Energy by 12.8% in the 4th quarter. Treasurer of the State of North Carolina now owns 385,155 shares of the companys stock valued at $9,463,000 after purchasing an additional 43,672 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Pinebridge Investments L.P. purchased a new position in Coterra Energy in the 4th quarter valued at about $2,114,000. 92.59% of the stock is currently owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

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Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

CTRA has been the topic of a number of recent research reports. JPMorgan Chase & Co. upgraded shares of Coterra Energy from a neutral rating to an overweight rating and reduced their target price for the company from $33.00 to $31.00 in a report on Tuesday, June 27th. Stephens started coverage on shares of Coterra Energy in a research note on Monday, April 24th. They set an overweight rating and a $32.00 price objective for the company. Barclays upped their price objective on shares of Coterra Energy from $26.00 to $30.00 and gave the company an equal weight rating in a research note on Friday, March 17th. Citigroup raised shares of Coterra Energy from a sell rating to a neutral rating and upped their price objective for the company from $22.00 to $25.00 in a research note on Wednesday, April 19th. Finally, UBS Group started coverage on shares of Coterra Energy in a research note on Wednesday, April 19th. They set a neutral rating and a $27.00 price objective for the company. Fifteen equities research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and five have issued a buy rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat, Coterra Energy has an average rating of Hold and a consensus price target of $29.88.

Coterra Energy Stock Up 0.7 %

NYSE CTRA opened at $25.30 on Friday. The stock has a market cap of $19.16 billion, a PE ratio of 4.83, a P/E/G ratio of 0.19 and a beta of 0.26. Coterra Energy Inc. has a fifty-two week low of $22.25 and a fifty-two week high of $32.47. The business has a 50 day moving average price of $24.67 and a two-hundred day moving average price of $24.72. The company has a quick ratio of 1.61, a current ratio of 1.66 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.17.

Coterra Energy (NYSE:CTRA  Free Report) last released its earnings results on Thursday, May 4th. The company reported $0.85 EPS for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $0.69 by $0.16. The company had revenue of $1.78 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $1.62 billion. Coterra Energy had a return on equity of 29.48% and a net margin of 45.19%. As a group, sell-side analysts predict that Coterra Energy Inc. will post 2.42 EPS for the current fiscal year.

Coterra Energy Cuts Dividend

The firm also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, June 9th. Stockholders of record on Friday, May 26th were paid a dividend of $0.20 per share. This represents a $0.80 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 3.16%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Thursday, May 25th. Coterra Energys dividend payout ratio (DPR) is currently 15.27%.

About Coterra Energy

(Free Report)

Coterra Energy Inc, an independent oil and gas company, engages in the development, exploration and production of oil, natural gas, and natural gas liquids in the United States. The company primarily focuses on the Marcellus Shale with approximately 183,000 net acres in the dry gas window of the play located in Susquehanna County, Pennsylvania.

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Forum Financial Management LP purchased a new stake in Chipotle Mexican Grill, Inc. (NYSE:CMG  Free Report) during the first quarter, according to its most recent disclosure with the SEC. The firm purchased 139 shares of the restaurant operators stock, valued at approximately $237,000.

Other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also recently bought and sold shares of the company. Versant Capital Management Inc purchased a new position in Chipotle Mexican Grill in the 1st quarter valued at about $26,000. FourThought Financial LLC lifted its stake in Chipotle Mexican Grill by 350.0% in the 3rd quarter. FourThought Financial LLC now owns 18 shares of the restaurant operators stock valued at $27,000 after buying an additional 14 shares in the last quarter. Elequin Securities LLC purchased a new position in Chipotle Mexican Grill in the 4th quarter valued at about $28,000. Heritage Wealth Management LLC lifted its stake in Chipotle Mexican Grill by 100.0% in the 4th quarter. Heritage Wealth Management LLC now owns 20 shares of the restaurant operators stock valued at $28,000 after buying an additional 10 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Global Wealth Strategies & Associates purchased a new position in Chipotle Mexican Grill in the 4th quarter valued at about $36,000. 91.91% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

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Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

A number of research firms have weighed in on CMG. Argus raised their target price on shares of Chipotle Mexican Grill from $2,200.00 to $2,400.00 in a research note on Thursday, June 1st. Raymond James raised their target price on shares of Chipotle Mexican Grill from $2,100.00 to $2,300.00 in a research note on Tuesday, June 20th. Barclays raised their target price on shares of Chipotle Mexican Grill from $1,550.00 to $1,885.00 and gave the stock an equal weight rating in a research note on Wednesday, April 26th. Morgan Stanley raised their target price on shares of Chipotle Mexican Grill from $1,743.00 to $1,910.00 and gave the stock an equal weight rating in a research note on Wednesday, April 26th. Finally, Loop Capital raised their target price on shares of Chipotle Mexican Grill from $1,700.00 to $1,850.00 and gave the stock a hold rating in a research note on Wednesday, April 26th. Six investment analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and twenty-one have assigned a buy rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the company currently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $2,066.93.

Insider Transactions at Chipotle Mexican Grill

Chipotle Mexican Grill Stock Up 1.3 %

In related news, CEO Brian R. Niccol sold 1,023 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, April 3rd. The shares were sold at an average price of $1,695.00, for a total value of $1,733,985.00. Following the sale, the chief executive officer now owns 23,347 shares of the companys stock, valued at $39,573,165. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which can be accessed through this hyperlink . In related news, CEO Brian R. Niccol sold 1,023 shares of the stock in a transaction on Monday, April 3rd. The stock was sold at an average price of $1,695.00, for a total value of $1,733,985.00. Following the transaction, the chief executive officer now owns 23,347 shares of the companys stock, valued at $39,573,165. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through this link . Also, CEO Brian R. Niccol sold 1,078 shares of the firms stock in a transaction on Thursday, June 1st. The shares were sold at an average price of $2,058.13, for a total value of $2,218,664.14. Following the completion of the sale, the chief executive officer now owns 23,347 shares in the company, valued at $48,051,161.11. The disclosure for this sale can be found here . Over the last ninety days, insiders sold 12,346 shares of company stock valued at $24,704,401. 0.96% of the stock is currently owned by corporate insiders.

Shares of CMG stock opened at $2,139.00 on Friday. The firm has a 50 day moving average of $2,047.67 and a two-hundred day moving average of $1,740.65. The stock has a market capitalization of $59.02 billion, a PE ratio of 57.86, a P/E/G ratio of 1.51 and a beta of 1.34. Chipotle Mexican Grill, Inc. has a 52 week low of $1,233.61 and a 52 week high of $2,144.17.

Chipotle Mexican Grill (NYSE:CMG  Free Report) last released its earnings results on Tuesday, April 25th. The restaurant operator reported $10.50 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $8.89 by $1.61. Chipotle Mexican Grill had a return on equity of 45.01% and a net margin of 11.49%. The firm had revenue of $2.40 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $2.34 billion. During the same period last year, the business posted $5.70 earnings per share. Chipotle Mexican Grills revenue was up 18.8% compared to the same quarter last year. Analysts expect that Chipotle Mexican Grill, Inc. will post 43.98 EPS for the current fiscal year.

Chipotle Mexican Grill Company Profile

(Free Report)

Chipotle Mexican Grill, Inc, together with its subsidiaries, owns and operates Chipotle Mexican Grill restaurants. It offers burritos, burrito bowls, quesadillas, tacos, and salads. The company was founded in 1993 and is headquartered in Newport Beach, California.

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Sawyer & Company Inc cut its holdings in Pfizer Inc. (NYSE:PFE  Free Report) by 1.2% in the 1st quarter, according to the company in its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The institutional investor owned 22,587 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock after selling 274 shares during the period. Sawyer & Company Incs holdings in Pfizer were worth $943,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

Several other hedge funds have also recently made changes to their positions in the business. Vanguard Group Inc. raised its position in shares of Pfizer by 1.1% in the 3rd quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 493,584,761 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock worth $21,599,270,000 after acquiring an additional 5,139,634 shares in the last quarter. Moneta Group Investment Advisors LLC raised its position in shares of Pfizer by 89,592.7% in the 4th quarter. Moneta Group Investment Advisors LLC now owns 161,143,638 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock worth $8,257,000,000 after acquiring an additional 160,963,976 shares in the last quarter. Morgan Stanley raised its position in shares of Pfizer by 10.3% in the 4th quarter. Morgan Stanley now owns 79,499,361 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock worth $4,073,547,000 after acquiring an additional 7,419,929 shares in the last quarter. Charles Schwab Investment Management Inc. raised its position in shares of Pfizer by 4.6% in the 4th quarter. Charles Schwab Investment Management Inc. now owns 73,340,479 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock worth $3,741,204,000 after acquiring an additional 3,216,573 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Norges Bank bought a new position in shares of Pfizer in the 4th quarter worth about $3,150,472,000. 67.80% of the stock is owned by institutional investors.

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Pfizer Price Performance

Shares of NYSE PFE opened at $36.68 on Friday. Pfizer Inc. has a twelve month low of $35.76 and a twelve month high of $54.93. The stocks 50 day moving average price is $38.32 and its 200-day moving average price is $42.14. The company has a market capitalization of $207.07 billion, a PE ratio of 7.22, a PEG ratio of 1.20 and a beta of 0.64. The company has a quick ratio of 1.11, a current ratio of 1.37 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.31.

Pfizer Dividend Announcement

Pfizer ( NYSE:PFE Free Report ) last announced its earnings results on Tuesday, May 2nd. The biopharmaceutical company reported $1.23 earnings per share for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $1.00 by $0.23. Pfizer had a return on equity of 37.53% and a net margin of 31.25%. The firm had revenue of $18.28 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $16.49 billion. During the same quarter in the previous year, the business earned $1.62 EPS. The companys revenue was down 28.8% compared to the same quarter last year. On average, equities analysts anticipate that Pfizer Inc. will post 3.35 EPS for the current year.

The business also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Tuesday, September 5th. Investors of record on Friday, July 28th will be issued a $0.41 dividend. The ex-dividend date is Thursday, July 27th. This represents a $1.64 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 4.47%. Pfizers dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 32.28%.

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

PFE has been the subject of several research reports. Bank of America reduced their target price on Pfizer from $50.00 to $45.00 and set a neutral rating for the company in a research note on Friday, April 21st. Credit Suisse Group downgraded Pfizer from an outperform rating to a neutral rating and reduced their target price for the company from $47.00 to $40.00 in a research note on Thursday. UBS Group reduced their target price on Pfizer from $41.00 to $39.00 in a research note on Friday, May 5th. Daiwa Capital Markets downgraded Pfizer from an outperform rating to a neutral rating and set a $38.00 target price for the company. in a research note on Thursday, May 11th. Finally, StockNews.com downgraded Pfizer from a buy rating to a hold rating in a research note on Friday. Eleven analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and three have issued a buy rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat, the company has a consensus rating of Hold and a consensus target price of $46.67.

Insider Buying and Selling

In related news, Director Scott Gottlieb purchased 1,000 shares of the stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, May 8th. The shares were bought at an average price of $38.58 per share, with a total value of $38,580.00. Following the acquisition, the director now owns 6,000 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $231,480. The purchase was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at this link. 0.05% of the stock is currently owned by insiders.

Pfizer Company Profile

(Free Report)

Pfizer Inc discovers, develops, manufactures, markets, distributes, and sells biopharmaceutical products worldwide. It offers medicines and vaccines in various therapeutic areas, including cardiovascular metabolic, migraine, and women's health under the Eliquis, Nurtec ODT/Vydura, and the Premarin family brands; infectious diseases with unmet medical needs under the Prevnar family, Nimenrix, FSME/IMMUN-TicoVac, and Trumenba brands; and COVID-19 prevention and treatment, and potential future mRNA and antiviral products under the Comirnaty and Paxlovid brands.

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CENTRAL TRUST Co boosted its holdings in shares of Novartis AG (NYSE:NVS  Free Report) by 3.6% during the 1st quarter, according to the company in its most recent 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The institutional investor owned 7,727 shares of the companys stock after acquiring an additional 270 shares during the period. CENTRAL TRUST Cos holdings in Novartis were worth $711,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).

Several other hedge funds and other institutional investors also recently added to or reduced their stakes in the business. Archford Capital Strategies LLC grew its holdings in Novartis by 2.1% during the 1st quarter. Archford Capital Strategies LLC now owns 14,711 shares of the companys stock worth $1,399,000 after acquiring an additional 301 shares in the last quarter. Godsey & Gibb Inc. bought a new position in Novartis during the 1st quarter worth about $18,737,000. D.B. Root & Company LLC grew its holdings in Novartis by 2.3% during the 1st quarter. D.B. Root & Company LLC now owns 8,363 shares of the companys stock worth $769,000 after acquiring an additional 192 shares in the last quarter. Allworth Financial LP grew its holdings in Novartis by 3.6% during the 1st quarter. Allworth Financial LP now owns 3,242 shares of the companys stock worth $298,000 after acquiring an additional 114 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Hall Capital Management Co. Inc. grew its holdings in Novartis by 2.4% during the 1st quarter. Hall Capital Management Co. Inc. now owns 5,002 shares of the companys stock worth $460,000 after acquiring an additional 115 shares in the last quarter. 8.07% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors.

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Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

Several research analysts have issued reports on NVS shares. StockNews.com began coverage on shares of Novartis in a report on Thursday, May 18th. They set a strong-buy rating on the stock. BTIG Research increased their price target on shares of Novartis from $75.00 to $85.00 in a research report on Wednesday, April 19th. Finally, Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft raised shares of Novartis from a hold rating to a buy rating in a research report on Wednesday, April 26th. Two research analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, five have given a hold rating, three have given a buy rating and one has given a strong buy rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, the stock presently has an average rating of Hold and an average target price of $82.25.

Novartis Stock Performance

Shares of Novartis stock opened at $100.91 on Friday. The firm has a market capitalization of $213.89 billion, a P/E ratio of 31.05, a PEG ratio of 1.64 and a beta of 0.54. The company has a quick ratio of 0.79, a current ratio of 1.05 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.39. The company has a 50 day moving average price of $100.95 and a 200 day moving average price of $93.45. Novartis AG has a 52 week low of $74.09 and a 52 week high of $105.56.

Novartis (NYSE:NVS  Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings data on Tuesday, April 25th. The company reported $1.71 EPS for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $1.55 by $0.16. The firm had revenue of $12.95 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $12.60 billion. Novartis had a net margin of 13.78% and a return on equity of 23.29%. Novartiss revenue was up 3.4% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period last year, the firm posted $1.46 EPS. Sell-side analysts expect that Novartis AG will post 6.74 EPS for the current year.

Novartis Company Profile

(Free Report)

Novartis AG researches, develops, manufactures, and markets healthcare products in Switzerland and internationally. The company operates through two segments: Innovative Medicines and Sandoz. The Innovative Medicines segment offers prescription medicines for patients and physicians. It also provides cardiovascular, ophthalmology, neuroscience, immunology, hematology, and solid tumor products.

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Keudell Morrison Wealth Management boosted its position in shares of The Procter & Gamble Company (NYSE:PG  Free Report) by 1.2% in the 1st quarter, HoldingsChannel reports. The institutional investor owned 9,582 shares of the companys stock after buying an additional 112 shares during the period. Keudell Morrison Wealth Managements holdings in Procter & Gamble were worth $1,425,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

Other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also recently bought and sold shares of the company. J2 Capital Management Inc increased its holdings in shares of Procter & Gamble by 12.2% in the first quarter. J2 Capital Management Inc now owns 2,288 shares of the companys stock valued at $340,000 after buying an additional 249 shares in the last quarter. Horan Securities Inc. raised its position in shares of Procter & Gamble by 0.6% during the first quarter. Horan Securities Inc. now owns 48,748 shares of the companys stock worth $7,248,000 after purchasing an additional 312 shares during the period. M. Kraus & Co lifted its holdings in shares of Procter & Gamble by 1.6% during the first quarter. M. Kraus & Co now owns 65,186 shares of the companys stock valued at $9,692,000 after purchasing an additional 999 shares during the last quarter. Archford Capital Strategies LLC boosted its position in shares of Procter & Gamble by 8.6% in the 1st quarter. Archford Capital Strategies LLC now owns 12,903 shares of the companys stock valued at $1,952,000 after purchasing an additional 1,021 shares during the period. Finally, Godsey & Gibb Inc. increased its stake in Procter & Gamble by 1.5% in the 1st quarter. Godsey & Gibb Inc. now owns 129,102 shares of the companys stock worth $19,196,000 after purchasing an additional 1,898 shares in the last quarter. 64.65% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors.

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Insiders Place Their Bets

In other news, CEO Ma. Fatima Francisco sold 8,000 shares of Procter & Gamble stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, April 24th. The shares were sold at an average price of $156.84, for a total value of $1,254,720.00. Following the transaction, the chief executive officer now owns 9,343 shares of the companys stock, valued at $1,465,356.12. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is available at the SEC website. In other news, COO Shailesh Jejurikar sold 31,000 shares of Procter & Gamble stock in a transaction dated Monday, May 1st. The stock was sold at an average price of $156.03, for a total value of $4,836,930.00. Following the transaction, the chief operating officer now directly owns 10,014 shares in the company, valued at $1,562,484.42. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at the SEC website. Also, CEO Ma. Fatima Francisco sold 8,000 shares of the stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, April 24th. The shares were sold at an average price of $156.84, for a total value of $1,254,720.00. Following the sale, the chief executive officer now owns 9,343 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $1,465,356.12. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Insiders sold 95,093 shares of company stock valued at $14,821,930 over the last 90 days. 0.26% of the stock is currently owned by company insiders.

Analyst Ratings Changes

Procter & Gamble Price Performance

Several research analysts have commented on the stock. StockNews.com assumed coverage on shares of Procter & Gamble in a report on Thursday, May 18th. They issued a buy rating for the company. Royal Bank of Canada lifted their price objective on shares of Procter & Gamble from $160.00 to $165.00 and gave the stock a sector perform rating in a research report on Monday, April 24th. Evercore ISI increased their target price on Procter & Gamble from $160.00 to $170.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a report on Monday, April 24th. UBS Group lifted their price target on Procter & Gamble from $170.00 to $180.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a report on Monday, April 24th. Finally, Jefferies Financial Group increased their price objective on Procter & Gamble from $171.00 to $175.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a research note on Monday, April 24th. Five equities research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and twelve have given a buy rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat, the stock presently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $161.50.

NYSE PG opened at $151.74 on Friday. The company has a 50 day moving average price of $150.41 and a two-hundred day moving average price of $147.36. The Procter & Gamble Company has a 12-month low of $122.18 and a 12-month high of $158.11. The stock has a market capitalization of $357.65 billion, a PE ratio of 26.44, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 4.15 and a beta of 0.41. The company has a quick ratio of 0.39, a current ratio of 0.59 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.51.

Procter & Gamble (NYSE:PG  Free Report) last issued its quarterly earnings data on Friday, April 21st. The company reported $1.37 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $1.32 by $0.05. Procter & Gamble had a net margin of 17.69% and a return on equity of 32.18%. The firm had revenue of $20.07 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $19.32 billion. During the same period in the prior year, the company posted $1.33 earnings per share. Procter & Gambles revenue for the quarter was up 3.5% on a year-over-year basis. As a group, equities analysts predict that The Procter & Gamble Company will post 5.86 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

Procter & Gamble Increases Dividend

The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Monday, May 15th. Investors of record on Friday, April 21st were paid a $0.9407 dividend. This represents a $3.76 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 2.48%. This is an increase from Procter & Gambles previous quarterly dividend of $0.91. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Thursday, April 20th. Procter & Gambles dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 65.51%.

About Procter & Gamble

(Free Report)

The Procter & Gamble Company provides branded consumer packaged goods worldwide. It operates through five segments: Beauty; Grooming; Health Care; Fabric & Home Care; and Baby, Feminine & Family Care. The Beauty segment offers conditioners, shampoos, styling aids, and treatments under the Head & Shoulders, Herbal Essences, Pantene, and Rejoice brands; and antiperspirants and deodorants, personal cleansing, and skin care products under the Olay, Old Spice, Safeguard, Secret, and SK-II brands.

Further Reading

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Waterfront Wealth Inc. raised its holdings in shares of UnitedHealth Group Incorporated (NYSE:UNH  Free Report) by 4.9% in the 1st quarter, according to its most recent filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The institutional investor owned 1,604 shares of the healthcare conglomerates stock after acquiring an additional 75 shares during the quarter. Waterfront Wealth Inc.s holdings in UnitedHealth Group were worth $758,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

Several other hedge funds also recently made changes to their positions in UNH. Heron Financial Group LLC bought a new position in shares of UnitedHealth Group in the first quarter valued at $1,268,000. Nordea Investment Management AB grew its stake in shares of UnitedHealth Group by 9.7% in the first quarter. Nordea Investment Management AB now owns 1,835,884 shares of the healthcare conglomerates stock valued at $868,887,000 after buying an additional 162,541 shares in the last quarter. TIAA FSB grew its stake in shares of UnitedHealth Group by 1.9% in the first quarter. TIAA FSB now owns 131,006 shares of the healthcare conglomerates stock valued at $61,912,000 after buying an additional 2,418 shares in the last quarter. Mcdonald Partners LLC grew its stake in shares of UnitedHealth Group by 4.1% in the first quarter. Mcdonald Partners LLC now owns 4,545 shares of the healthcare conglomerates stock valued at $2,148,000 after buying an additional 180 shares in the last quarter. Finally, FCF Advisors LLC lifted its holdings in UnitedHealth Group by 25.9% during the 1st quarter. FCF Advisors LLC now owns 7,221 shares of the healthcare conglomerates stock valued at $3,413,000 after purchasing an additional 1,484 shares during the last quarter. 92.61% of the stock is owned by institutional investors.

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Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

Several equities research analysts have issued reports on the company. SVB Securities cut their price target on UnitedHealth Group from $625.00 to $560.00 in a report on Wednesday, June 14th. TD Cowen cut their price target on UnitedHealth Group from $596.00 to $562.00 and set an outperform rating for the company in a report on Monday, April 17th. Oppenheimer reaffirmed an outperform rating and set a $610.00 price target on shares of UnitedHealth Group in a report on Monday, April 17th. Raymond James reissued a strong-buy rating and issued a $630.00 target price on shares of UnitedHealth Group in a research report on Friday, April 14th. Finally, Royal Bank of Canada reissued an outperform rating and issued a $592.00 target price on shares of UnitedHealth Group in a research report on Monday, April 17th. One investment 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 MarketBeat, UnitedHealth Group has a consensus rating of Buy and a consensus target price of $592.68.

Insider Activity

UnitedHealth Group Stock Up 0.9 %

In other news, EVP Erin Mcsweeney sold 1,008 shares of the companys stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, April 21st. The stock was sold at an average price of $484.58, for a total value of $488,456.64. Following the completion of the transaction, the executive vice president now owns 10,359 shares of the companys stock, valued at $5,019,764.22. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through this link . In related news, CEO Andrew Witty sold 6,160 shares of the companys stock in a transaction that occurred on Thursday, April 27th. The stock was sold at an average price of $487.49, for a total value of $3,002,938.40. Following the sale, the chief executive officer now directly owns 86,564 shares in the company, valued at $42,199,084.36. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through this hyperlink . Also, EVP Erin Mcsweeney sold 1,008 shares of the stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, April 21st. The stock was sold at an average price of $484.58, for a total value of $488,456.64. Following the transaction, the executive vice president now owns 10,359 shares in the company, valued at $5,019,764.22. The disclosure for this sale can be found here . Insiders sold 8,852 shares of company stock valued at $4,313,962 over the last quarter. 0.35% of the stock is owned by company insiders.

Shares of NYSE UNH opened at $480.64 on Friday. The company has a current ratio of 0.81, a quick ratio of 0.81 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.71. The company has a market cap of $447.49 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 21.98, a PEG ratio of 1.39 and a beta of 0.68. UnitedHealth Group Incorporated has a 12 month low of $445.68 and a 12 month high of $558.10. The stock has a 50-day moving average price of $483.72 and a two-hundred day moving average price of $490.07.

UnitedHealth Group (NYSE:UNH  Free Report) last issued its earnings results on Friday, April 14th. The healthcare conglomerate reported $6.26 EPS for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $6.24 by $0.02. The firm had revenue of $91.93 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $89.77 billion. UnitedHealth Group had a return on equity of 27.05% and a net margin of 6.16%. The businesss quarterly revenue was up 14.7% on a year-over-year basis. During the same quarter in the previous year, the firm earned $5.49 earnings per share. As a group, analysts forecast that UnitedHealth Group Incorporated will post 24.86 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

UnitedHealth Group Increases Dividend

The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Tuesday, June 27th. Stockholders of record on Monday, June 19th were paid a $1.88 dividend. The ex-dividend date was Thursday, June 15th. This represents a $7.52 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 1.56%. This is an increase from UnitedHealth Groups previous quarterly dividend of $1.65. UnitedHealth Groups dividend payout ratio is currently 34.39%.

UnitedHealth Group Profile

(Free Report)

UnitedHealth Group Incorporated operates as a diversified health care company in the United States. It operates through four segments: UnitedHealthcare, Optum Health, Optum Insight, and Optum Rx. The UnitedHealthcare segment offers consumer-oriented health benefit plans and services for national employers, public sector employers, mid-sized employers, small businesses, and individuals; health care coverage, and health and well-being services to individuals age 50 and older addressing their needs; Medicaid plans, children's health insurance and health care programs; and health and dental benefits, and hospital and clinical services, as well as health care benefits products and services to state programs caring for the economically disadvantaged, medically underserved, and those without the benefit of employer-funded health care coverage.

Further Reading

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Heron Financial Group LLC trimmed its stake in Pfizer Inc. (NYSE:PFE  Free Report) by 3.9% during the first quarter, according to its most recent 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The fund owned 13,895 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock after selling 570 shares during the period. Heron Financial Group LLCs holdings in Pfizer were worth $567,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

A number of other hedge funds have also recently modified their holdings of the stock. Atwater Malick LLC grew its position in shares of Pfizer by 2.9% in the 1st quarter. Atwater Malick LLC now owns 156,192 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock valued at $6,373,000 after buying an additional 4,407 shares during the last quarter. MinichMacGregor Wealth Management LLC grew its position in shares of Pfizer by 184.6% in the 1st quarter. MinichMacGregor Wealth Management LLC now owns 6,689 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock valued at $273,000 after buying an additional 4,339 shares during the last quarter. Ballast Inc. grew its position in shares of Pfizer by 9.8% in the 1st quarter. Ballast Inc. now owns 22,055 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock valued at $900,000 after buying an additional 1,972 shares during the last quarter. Herold Advisors Inc. grew its position in shares of Pfizer by 45.8% in the 1st quarter. Herold Advisors Inc. now owns 49,991 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock valued at $2,040,000 after buying an additional 15,710 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Members Trust Co grew its position in shares of Pfizer by 3.9% in the 1st quarter. Members Trust Co now owns 27,674 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock valued at $1,129,000 after buying an additional 1,032 shares during the last quarter. 67.80% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

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Pfizer Stock Up 1.6 %

Shares of NYSE PFE opened at $36.68 on Friday. The stock has a market capitalization of $207.07 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 7.22, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 1.20 and a beta of 0.64. The company has a quick ratio of 1.11, a current ratio of 1.37 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.31. Pfizer Inc. has a 52 week low of $35.76 and a 52 week high of $54.93. The firm has a 50-day moving average price of $38.32 and a 200 day moving average price of $42.14.

Pfizer Dividend Announcement

Pfizer ( NYSE:PFE Free Report ) last announced its quarterly earnings results on Tuesday, May 2nd. The biopharmaceutical company reported $1.23 earnings per share for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $1.00 by $0.23. The firm had revenue of $18.28 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $16.49 billion. Pfizer had a net margin of 31.25% and a return on equity of 37.53%. Pfizers revenue was down 28.8% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period in the previous year, the company posted $1.62 earnings per share. Equities research analysts anticipate that Pfizer Inc. will post 3.35 EPS for the current fiscal year.

The company also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Tuesday, September 5th. Stockholders of record on Friday, July 28th will be given a dividend of $0.41 per share. The ex-dividend date is Thursday, July 27th. This represents a $1.64 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 4.47%. Pfizers payout ratio is currently 32.28%.

Analysts Set New Price Targets

A number of research firms recently commented on PFE. Morgan Stanley dropped their target price on shares of Pfizer from $45.00 to $44.00 and set an equal weight rating on the stock in a research report on Monday, April 10th. Wells Fargo & Company decreased their price target on shares of Pfizer from $50.00 to $44.00 and set an equal weight rating for the company in a research note on Friday, March 17th. StockNews.com cut shares of Pfizer from a buy rating to a hold rating in a research note on Friday. Daiwa Capital Markets cut shares of Pfizer from an outperform rating to a neutral rating and set a $38.00 price target for the company. in a research note on Thursday, May 11th. Finally, UBS Group decreased their price target on shares of Pfizer from $41.00 to $39.00 in a research note on Friday, May 5th. Eleven analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and three have assigned a buy rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the stock currently has a consensus rating of Hold and an average target price of $46.67.

Insider Transactions at Pfizer

In other news, Director Scott Gottlieb bought 1,000 shares of Pfizer stock in a transaction dated Monday, May 8th. The shares were acquired at an average cost of $38.58 per share, with a total value of $38,580.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the director now owns 6,000 shares in the company, valued at approximately $231,480. The purchase was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which can be accessed through the SEC website. Corporate insiders own 0.05% of the companys stock.

About Pfizer

(Free Report)

Pfizer Inc discovers, develops, manufactures, markets, distributes, and sells biopharmaceutical products worldwide. It offers medicines and vaccines in various therapeutic areas, including cardiovascular metabolic, migraine, and women's health under the Eliquis, Nurtec ODT/Vydura, and the Premarin family brands; infectious diseases with unmet medical needs under the Prevnar family, Nimenrix, FSME/IMMUN-TicoVac, and Trumenba brands; and COVID-19 prevention and treatment, and potential future mRNA and antiviral products under the Comirnaty and Paxlovid brands.

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Legacy Trust boosted its position in shares of UnitedHealth Group Incorporated (NYSE:UNH  Free Report) by 22.1% in the first quarter, Holdings Channel.com reports. The institutional investor owned 830 shares of the healthcare conglomerates stock after acquiring an additional 150 shares during the period. Legacy Trusts holdings in UnitedHealth Group were worth $392,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

Other hedge funds and other institutional investors also recently added to or reduced their stakes in the company. Chelsea Counsel Co. bought a new stake in shares of UnitedHealth Group in the 4th quarter valued at approximately $27,000. Freedom Wealth Alliance LLC bought a new stake in shares of UnitedHealth Group in the 4th quarter valued at approximately $31,000. Investors Research Corp lifted its stake in shares of 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 purchasing an additional 24 shares during the last quarter. Legend Financial Advisors Inc. bought a new stake in shares of UnitedHealth Group in the 3rd quarter valued at approximately $37,000. Finally, Bourgeon Capital Management LLC lifted its stake in shares of 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 purchasing an additional 50 shares during the last quarter. 92.61% of the stock is owned by institutional investors.

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Analysts Set New Price Targets

UNH has been the topic of several recent analyst reports. Truist Financial reduced their price target on UnitedHealth Group from $610.00 to $580.00 in a report on Wednesday, June 14th. JPMorgan Chase & Co. reduced their price target on UnitedHealth Group from $595.00 to $562.00 in a report on Tuesday, May 30th. Loop Capital increased their price target on UnitedHealth Group from $590.00 to $600.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a report on Monday, April 17th. Royal Bank of Canada reiterated an outperform rating and issued a $592.00 price target on shares of UnitedHealth Group in a report on Monday, April 17th. Finally, 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. One investment analyst has rated the stock with a hold rating, fourteen have assigned a buy rating and one has issued a strong buy rating to the company. According to MarketBeat, the company presently has a consensus rating of Buy and an average price target of $592.68.

Insiders Place Their Bets

UnitedHealth Group Trading Up 0.9 %

In other UnitedHealth Group news, CEO Andrew Witty sold 6,160 shares of UnitedHealth Group stock in a transaction dated Thursday, April 27th. The stock was sold at an average price of $487.49, for a total transaction of $3,002,938.40. Following the completion of the sale, the chief executive officer now owns 86,564 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $42,199,084.36. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is accessible through this hyperlink . In other UnitedHealth Group news, EVP Erin Mcsweeney sold 1,684 shares of UnitedHealth Group stock in a transaction dated Monday, April 24th. The stock was sold at an average price of $488.46, for a total transaction of $822,566.64. Following the completion of the transaction, the executive vice president now owns 8,675 shares in the company, valued at approximately $4,237,390.50. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through this link . Also, CEO Andrew Witty sold 6,160 shares of UnitedHealth Group 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 transaction, the chief executive officer now owns 86,564 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $42,199,084.36. The disclosure for this sale can be found here . In the last 90 days, insiders sold 8,852 shares of company stock valued at $4,313,962. 0.35% of the stock is owned by company insiders.

Shares of NYSE:UNH opened at $480.64 on Friday. UnitedHealth Group Incorporated has a 12-month low of $445.68 and a 12-month high of $558.10. The businesss fifty day simple moving average is $483.72 and its 200-day simple moving average is $490.07. The company has a market capitalization of $447.49 billion, a PE ratio of 21.98, a P/E/G ratio of 1.39 and a beta of 0.68. The company has a current ratio of 0.81, a quick ratio of 0.81 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.71.

UnitedHealth Group (NYSE:UNH  Free Report) last posted its quarterly earnings data on Friday, April 14th. The healthcare conglomerate reported $6.26 earnings per share 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 businesss quarterly revenue was up 14.7% on a year-over-year basis. During the same quarter last year, the firm earned $5.49 EPS. As a group, equities research analysts predict that UnitedHealth Group Incorporated will post 24.86 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

UnitedHealth Group Increases Dividend

The firm also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Tuesday, June 27th. Stockholders of record on Monday, June 19th were given a $1.88 dividend. This is a boost from UnitedHealth Groups previous quarterly dividend of $1.65. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Thursday, June 15th. This represents a $7.52 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 1.56%. UnitedHealth Groups dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 34.39%.

UnitedHealth Group Profile

(Free Report)

UnitedHealth Group Incorporated operates as a diversified health care company in the United States. It operates through four segments: UnitedHealthcare, Optum Health, Optum Insight, and Optum Rx. The UnitedHealthcare segment offers consumer-oriented health benefit plans and services for national employers, public sector employers, mid-sized employers, small businesses, and individuals; health care coverage, and health and well-being services to individuals age 50 and older addressing their needs; Medicaid plans, children's health insurance and health care programs; and health and dental benefits, and hospital and clinical services, as well as health care benefits products and services to state programs caring for the economically disadvantaged, medically underserved, and those without the benefit of employer-funded health care coverage.

Further Reading

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Louisiana State Employees Retirement System increased its holdings in shares of Merck & Co., Inc. (NYSE:MRK  Free Report) by 0.6% during the 1st quarter, HoldingsChannel.com reports. The institutional investor owned 164,800 shares of the companys stock after purchasing an additional 1,000 shares during the quarter. Louisiana State Employees Retirement Systems holdings in Merck & Co., Inc. were worth $17,533,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

Other large investors have also recently added to or reduced their stakes in the company. Veracity Capital LLC raised its holdings in shares of Merck & Co., Inc. by 1.9% in the 1st quarter. Veracity Capital LLC now owns 4,892 shares of the companys stock worth $520,000 after purchasing an additional 92 shares during the period. Tradewinds Capital Management LLC raised its holdings in shares of Merck & Co., Inc. by 41.5% in the 4th quarter. Tradewinds Capital Management LLC now owns 317 shares of the companys stock worth $35,000 after purchasing an additional 93 shares during the period. Mcrae Capital Management Inc. raised its holdings in shares of Merck & Co., Inc. by 1.0% in the 4th quarter. Mcrae Capital Management Inc. now owns 9,524 shares of the companys stock worth $1,057,000 after purchasing an additional 94 shares during the period. Coco Enterprises LLC raised its holdings in shares of Merck & Co., Inc. by 1.2% in the 4th quarter. Coco Enterprises LLC now owns 7,644 shares of the companys stock worth $848,000 after purchasing an additional 94 shares during the period. Finally, Capital Advantage Inc. raised its holdings in shares of Merck & Co., Inc. by 0.7% in the 4th quarter. Capital Advantage Inc. now owns 14,353 shares of the companys stock worth $1,592,000 after purchasing an additional 95 shares during the period. 76.60% of the stock is currently owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

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Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

MRK has been the topic of a number of research reports. Berenberg Bank raised their price objective on Merck & Co., Inc. from $125.00 to $130.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a report on Friday, March 10th. Atlantic Securities raised their price objective on Merck & Co., Inc. from $122.00 to $127.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a report on Tuesday, March 7th. Jefferies Financial Group initiated coverage on Merck & Co., Inc. in a report on Monday, March 6th. They issued a buy rating and a $125.00 price objective on the stock. Citigroup upgraded Merck & Co., Inc. from a neutral rating to a buy rating and raised their target price for the company from $105.00 to $130.00 in a report on Thursday, April 13th. Finally, Societe Generale downgraded Merck & Co., Inc. from a buy rating to a hold rating in a report on Tuesday, March 28th. Five research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating, sixteen have assigned a buy rating and one has issued a strong buy rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat, the stock currently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $121.74.

Insider Transactions at Merck & Co., Inc.

Merck & Co., Inc. Price Performance

In other news, CEO Robert M. Davis sold 143,329 shares of Merck & Co., Inc. stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, April 28th. The stock was sold at an average price of $114.93, for a total value of $16,472,801.97. Following the completion of the transaction, the chief executive officer now owns 271,817 shares in the company, valued at approximately $31,239,927.81. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is available through this hyperlink . In other news, CEO Robert M. Davis sold 143,329 shares of Merck & Co., Inc. stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, April 28th. The stock was sold at an average price of $114.93, for a total value of $16,472,801.97. Following the completion of the transaction, the chief executive officer now owns 271,817 shares in the company, valued at approximately $31,239,927.81. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is available through this hyperlink . Also, insider Sanat Chattopadhyay sold 134,055 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Thursday, April 13th. The stock was sold at an average price of $115.07, for a total value of $15,425,708.85. The disclosure for this sale can be found here . In the last quarter, insiders sold 488,258 shares of company stock worth $56,481,018. 0.20% of the stock is currently owned by corporate insiders.

Shares of NYSE MRK opened at $115.39 on Friday. The firm has a market cap of $292.80 billion, a PE ratio of 22.54, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 1.98 and a beta of 0.35. The business has a 50 day moving average price of $113.50 and a two-hundred day moving average price of $110.77. The company has a quick ratio of 1.19, a current ratio of 1.44 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.60. Merck & Co., Inc. has a fifty-two week low of $84.52 and a fifty-two week high of $119.65.

Merck & Co., Inc. (NYSE:MRK  Free Report) last issued its earnings results on Thursday, April 27th. The company reported $1.40 EPS for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $1.34 by $0.06. The company had revenue of $14.49 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $13.81 billion. Merck & Co., Inc. had a return on equity of 37.92% and a net margin of 22.52%. The businesss revenue was down 8.9% on a year-over-year basis. During the same quarter last year, the firm earned $2.14 EPS. Sell-side analysts expect that Merck & Co., Inc. will post 6.95 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

Merck & Co., Inc. Dividend Announcement

The company also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, July 10th. Stockholders of record on Thursday, June 15th will be given a $0.73 dividend. The ex-dividend date is Wednesday, June 14th. This represents a $2.92 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 2.53%. Merck & Co., Inc.s payout ratio is 57.03%.

About Merck & Co., Inc.

(Free Report)

Merck & Co, Inc operates as a healthcare company worldwide. It operates through two segments, Pharmaceutical and Animal Health. The Pharmaceutical segment offers human health pharmaceutical products in the areas of oncology, hospital acute care, immunology, neuroscience, virology, cardiovascular, and diabetes, as well as vaccine products, such as preventive pediatric, adolescent, and adult vaccines.

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The 1878 Comal County Jail building when it was being bulldozed to make additions to the Texas Commerce, now Chase, bank building. Note the iron cell door on the second floor. | Sophienburg Museum & Archives
International Assets Investment Management LLC decreased its position in shares of Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc. (NYSE:TMO  Free Report) by 98.9% in the first quarter, according to the company in its most recent 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The fund owned 1,111 shares of the medical research companys stock after selling 102,365 shares during the period. International Assets Investment Management LLCs holdings in Thermo Fisher Scientific were worth $640,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

A number of other institutional investors and hedge funds have also recently bought and sold shares of TMO. Moneta Group Investment Advisors LLC lifted its position in Thermo Fisher Scientific by 104,536.8% during the 4th quarter. Moneta Group Investment Advisors LLC now owns 8,355,245 shares of the medical research companys stock worth $4,601,150,000 after acquiring an additional 8,347,260 shares during the last quarter. Norges Bank bought a new position in shares of Thermo Fisher Scientific during the 4th quarter worth about $3,105,677,000. Polen Capital Management LLC bought a new position in shares of Thermo Fisher Scientific during the 4th quarter worth about $1,208,055,000. Morgan Stanley increased its holdings in shares of Thermo Fisher Scientific by 17.7% during the 4th quarter. Morgan Stanley now owns 11,730,063 shares of the medical research companys stock worth $6,459,629,000 after purchasing an additional 1,764,312 shares during the period. Finally, Proficio Capital Partners LLC increased its holdings in shares of Thermo Fisher Scientific by 65,486.3% during the 1st quarter. Proficio Capital Partners LLC now owns 733,255 shares of the medical research companys stock worth $733,000 after purchasing an additional 732,137 shares during the period. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 96.33% of the companys stock.

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Insider Buying and Selling at Thermo Fisher Scientific

In related news, CEO Marc N. Casper sold 10,000 shares of Thermo Fisher Scientific stock in a transaction on Friday, May 5th. The stock was sold at an average price of $545.22, for a total transaction of $5,452,200.00. Following the completion of the sale, the chief executive officer now directly owns 141,330 shares of the companys stock, valued at $77,055,942.60. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which can be accessed through the SEC website. In related news, CEO Marc N. Casper sold 1,600 shares of Thermo Fisher Scientific stock in a transaction that occurred on Tuesday, May 9th. The shares were sold at an average price of $534.82, for a total transaction of $855,712.00. Following the transaction, the chief executive officer now owns 141,330 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $75,586,110.60. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which can be accessed through this hyperlink. Also, CEO Marc N. Casper sold 10,000 shares of Thermo Fisher Scientific stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, May 5th. The stock was sold at an average price of $545.22, for a total transaction of $5,452,200.00. Following the transaction, the chief executive officer now directly owns 141,330 shares in the company, valued at approximately $77,055,942.60. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Corporate insiders own 0.32% of the companys stock.

Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

Thermo Fisher Scientific Stock Up 1.4 %

TMO has been the topic of several research reports. Barclays dropped their price objective on shares of Thermo Fisher Scientific from $610.00 to $590.00 in a report on Tuesday, June 27th. StockNews.com began coverage on shares of Thermo Fisher Scientific in a research note on Thursday, May 18th. They issued a hold rating on the stock. Evercore ISI lowered their target price on shares of Thermo Fisher Scientific from $615.00 to $610.00 and set an outperform rating on the stock in a research note on Tuesday, April 4th. Robert W. Baird lowered their target price on shares of Thermo Fisher Scientific from $693.00 to $670.00 in a research note on Thursday, April 27th. Finally, JPMorgan Chase & Co. lowered their target price on shares of Thermo Fisher Scientific from $675.00 to $660.00 in a research note on Thursday, May 25th. One research analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, three have given a hold rating and nine have assigned a buy rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat, the company currently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $629.77.

NYSE:TMO opened at $521.75 on Friday. The company has a market cap of $201.25 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 34.01, a P/E/G ratio of 2.55 and a beta of 0.79. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.69, a quick ratio of 0.92 and a current ratio of 1.27. The stocks fifty day moving average price is $528.28 and its two-hundred day moving average price is $551.08. Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc. has a 52-week low of $475.77 and a 52-week high of $611.06.

Thermo Fisher Scientific (NYSE:TMO  Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings data on Wednesday, April 26th. The medical research company reported $5.03 EPS for the quarter, hitting analysts consensus estimates of $5.03. Thermo Fisher Scientific had a return on equity of 19.16% and a net margin of 13.75%. The firm had revenue of $10.71 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $10.67 billion. During the same period last year, the company earned $7.25 earnings per share. The companys revenue was down 9.4% on a year-over-year basis. On average, analysts anticipate that Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc. will post 23.69 EPS for the current year.

Thermo Fisher Scientific Announces Dividend

The firm also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, July 14th. Shareholders of record on Thursday, June 15th will be paid a $0.35 dividend. The ex-dividend date is Wednesday, June 14th. This represents a $1.40 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 0.27%. Thermo Fisher Scientifics payout ratio is presently 9.13%.

Thermo Fisher Scientific Company Profile

(Free Report)

Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc provides life sciences solutions, analytical instruments, specialty diagnostics, and laboratory products and biopharma services in the United States and internationally. The company's Life Sciences Solutions segment offers reagents, instruments, and consumables for biological and medical research, discovery, and production of drugs and vaccines, as well as diagnosis of infections and diseases; and solutions include biosciences, genetic sciences, clinical next-generation sequencing, bio production to pharmaceutical, biotechnology, agricultural, clinical, healthcare, academic, and government markets.

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Forum Financial Management LP reduced its position in shares of Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (NYSEARCA:VYM  Free Report) by 23.1% in the first quarter, according to the company in its most recent disclosure with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The firm owned 2,033 shares of the companys stock after selling 612 shares during the period. Forum Financial Management LPs holdings in Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF were worth $214,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

A number of other institutional investors also recently modified their holdings of the company. Opal Wealth Advisors LLC raised its stake in Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF by 32.4% in the first quarter. Opal Wealth Advisors LLC now owns 3,073 shares of the companys stock worth $324,000 after buying an additional 752 shares in the last quarter. Bell Bank grew its holdings in shares of Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF by 64.8% during the first quarter. Bell Bank now owns 592,467 shares of the companys stock valued at $62,505,000 after buying an additional 233,021 shares during the last quarter. Rocky Mountain Advisers LLC grew its holdings in shares of Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF by 5.6% during the first quarter. Rocky Mountain Advisers LLC now owns 12,542 shares of the companys stock valued at $1,323,000 after buying an additional 663 shares during the last quarter. Carmel Capital Partners LLC purchased a new stake in shares of Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF during the first quarter valued at approximately $89,000. Finally, Patriot Investment Management Group Inc. grew its holdings in shares of Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF by 0.8% during the first quarter. Patriot Investment Management Group Inc. now owns 117,130 shares of the companys stock valued at $12,357,000 after buying an additional 886 shares during the last quarter.

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Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF Stock Up 0.8 %

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Syria said it repelled a missile salvo on Sunday from Israel, where police reported that remnants of a Syrian anti-aircraft missile struck a remote town without causing injuries.

Israel has in recent months intensified strikes on Syrian airports and air bases to disrupt Irans increasing use of aerial supply lines to deliver arms to allies in Syria and Lebanon, including Lebanons Hezbollah.

Syrian state media said air defences intercepted Israeli missiles across central parts of the country, downing most of them. A Syrian army statement said missiles that flew over parts of Lebanons capital Beirut hit locations in the vicinity of the city of Homs, resulting only in material damage.

Reuters could not immediately confirm the report.

An Israeli military spokesperson said warplanes struck targets including a Syrian air defence battery from which an anti-aircraft missile was launched towards Israel.

After a mid-air explosion heard across Israel, remnants of the Syrian missile landed in Rahat, a town some 180 km (110 miles) south of the armistice line between the countries, Israeli police said. There was no word of any casualties.

Local media showed what appeared to be the blackened front end of a large missile, standing upright in an open area among residential buildings, and tail-fins in a field.

The Israeli military said its warplanes were unscathed.

The Israeli strikes are part of an escalation of what has been a low-intensity conflict continuing for years with a goal of slowing Irans growing entrenchment in Syria, Israeli military experts say.

Tehrans influence has grown in Syria since it began supporting President Bashar al-Assad in the civil war that started in 2011.

Fighters allied to Iran, including Hezbollah, now hold sway in areas in eastern, southern and northwestern Syria and in several suburbs around the capital.

SOURCE: REUTERS
Hundreds of new laws took effect Saturday, ranging from naming the Chincoteague Pony as the states official pony to one saying drivers must move over a lane for disabled vehicles.

After more than two decades of trying, one of the 2023 General Assembly sessions biggest new initiatives, setting minimum staffing ratios for nursing homes, has a delayed effective date: July 1, 2025.

But the July 1 start date for new laws includes several with significant impact on Virginians daily lives.

Here are a few:

Pocketbook bills

A major reform of how Virginia regulates the electricity monopoly Dominion Energy is cutting power bills  by more than $7 off a benchmark 1,000 kilowatt-hour, $137 monthly bill. It does so by ending three surcharges. Down the pike, it clears the way for a program to ease the impact of Dominions pass-through of fuel costs to ratepayers and gives the State Corporation Commission more power to see if the utilitys base rate is justified, a move the legislations advocates say should bring down that rate, which accounts for about two thirds of a monthly bill.

Landlords who rent more than four units must give tenants at least 60 days notice of plans to raise rents when leases have an option to renew or have an automatic renewal provision.

At work

Employers wont be able to pay new employees who have disabilities less than the minimum wage.

Employers cant enforce nondisclosure or confidentiality agreements that conceal details of a sexual harassment claim.

A new state Department of Workforce Development and Advancement aims to boost Virginias job training and job-finding services by consolidating workforce program evaluation and data sharing; the new department also takes charge of apprenticeship programs.

Employers with more than 50 employees have to provide up to 60 days unpaid leave for l

, including bone marrow donations.

People with 85 various occupational and professional licenses from other states will be able to get on a fast track for Virginia licenses.

Health

Licensed midwives may now administer drugs and devices that come within the scope of their practice.

Pharmacists can refill insulin prescriptions in an emergency, using information on the container label if the prescriber cant be reached.

For health insurance plans that will be sold this fall providing coverage for next year, health insurers will have to cover hearing aids for minors for up to $1,500 every 24 months.

Health insurers will no longer be allowed to charge higher premiums for smokers.

Patients can go to telemedicine services to provide continuity of care when their previously established doctor or health care provider is unavailable.

Families

Guardians of incapacitated people must visit the individuals they are responsible for at least three times a year, and at least once in person.

Parents can allow their kids to play or walk home from school or engage in other activity without adult supervision if that play or activity is appropriate for the childs age and abilities. Parents can allow such activities without running the risk of being accused of abuse or neglect unless such lack of supervision is so extreme that it endangers a childs health or safety.

A new state program will promote and support placements of children with relatives in order to avoid foster care.

Spouses wont be liable for medical care if their spouse has died.

Fathers have to share the costs of pregnancy and delivery.

Consumers

All providers of services with automatic renewal provisions or that offer free trials that then automatically kick over into a paid service have to give customers 30 days notice that they can cancel.

Companies that provide service they say can improve a consumers credit or win an extension of credit now must give customers a complete and accurate statement of their right to receive annual free copies of their credit reports from each of the three nationwide consumer reporting agencies.

Sales tax will no longer be charged on the labor involved in diagnosing motor vehicle repair work and emergency roadside service.

The Joint Commission on Technology and Science is to recommend ways for people to opt out of unwanted telephone solicitation calls and text messages.

The Attorney General can now investigate entities believed to violate state consumer finance law if those entities are not licensed by the State Corporation Commission.

Cannabis product labels now must list all active and inactive ingredients, the total percentage and milligrams of tetrahydrocannabinol and cannabidiol included in the product and the number of milligrams of tetrahydrocannabinol and cannabidiol in each serving. They also must have child and safety warnings in a conspicuous font and comply with any requirements imposed by the Board of Pharmacy.

Driving

Motorists must now move over and slow down when passing a stopped car or truck that has flashing hazard lights, or that has set up flares or that has set a warning sign.

Modification of headlights so they look blue is banned.

Housing

Tenants can end a lease and receive a full refund of all deposits and rent paid if, when they move in, the apartment or house is a fire hazard or serious threat to safety and health, including infestation of rodents, lack of heat, running water, electricity or sewage disposal.

Crime

People who make prank emergency calls  swatting  that result in the dispatch of police or other emergency personnel, are now subject to a punishment of one to five years in prison if such a call results in serious bodily injury, and a penalty of one to 10 years if someone is killed as a result. The term swatting is derived from the SWAT teams that often respond as a result of such calls.

It will now be a felony to team up with another person or people to steal from more than one store, even if each theft is small enough to be a misdemeanor ($1,000 or less). Organized retail theft is now subject to a prison term of five to 20 years.

It also will now be a felony to threaten in writing or by electronic message to disseminate, sell or publish nude images of another person, or of another person engaged in a sex act. This is now subject to a prison term of one to 10 years. If the other person is less than 18, the prison term can be up to 20 years.

And it is now against the law to sell or buy a catalytic converter detached from a motor vehicle, except by or from a scrap metal dealers. Judges and juries can now assume that a person with such a detached catalytic converted got it illegally.

Property

Judgment liens on real estate that could otherwise stall or stop a sale or transfer can now be released by a settlement agent if creditors dont respond to notices or cant be found.

Taxes

The state Tax Commissioner will have to offer installment plans so taxpayers can pay for what they owe over a term of up to five years.

Mental health

People whose mental health crisis appears to be result of intoxication can be held under a temporary detention order of a hospital emergency room for treatment (instead of being transported to a mental health hospital or ward and held for 72 hours).

People held under a temporary detention order who are awaiting transport to a mental health facility can be released ahead of the orders 72 hours if they no longer meet the criteria for involuntary commitment.

Foster care

Students at public colleges and universities who have aged out of foster care can now stay in school housing at no cost between school sessions and during vacations, since theyd otherwise have no place to go.

History

New historical site signs are authorized for Green Book locations. These are the hotels, guest houses, service stations, drug stores, taverns, barbershops, and restaurants that were listed in The Negro Motorist Green Book as safe for traveling Black Americans during the Jim Crow era.
[July 02, 2023] HFM's Unique Cent Account Just Recently Launched, Already Gains Impressive Traction Tweet

EBENE, Mauritius, July 2, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Leading global brokerage brand HFM (formerly HotForex) has released a statement regarding its Cent account, launched earlier this year. In the statement, the company informs that the number of active users passed all expectations, across the globe and especially in Latin America. "When we first opened this Cent account for registration back in January, we projected it to be a success," commented a spokesperson for HFM, "but we didn't imagine it would become as popular as it is today. Our Cent account offers an opportunity for traders who are not as seasoned in this field, or have a limited investing budget, to take advantage of the many possibilities that pop up in the foreign exchange market on a daily basis." The advantages of opening a Cent account with HFM The revolutionary Cent account offered by HFM manages to make CFD trading a lot more inclusive and global. With it, traders can use cent lots whn placing trades, with no swaps and zero commissions. Furthermore, HFM also raises the bar by offering a 1:2000 leverage through its Cent account and by enabling it via all of the platforms that the company deploys, including MetaTrader 4 and 5.



HFM's Cent account is ideal for forex and gold CFD trading, and there is no minimum deposit for opening one. Also, users who open a Cent account are entitled to assistance from a personal account manager, just like all other clients of HFM. "Our Cent account is a great way for novice traders to test the waters, and an ideal intermediary step between a demo account and a regular live trading account," added the spokesperson. "Since the registration process is free and simple, we invite all our traders - in Mexico and around the world - to give it a try today."

About HFM Established in 2010, HFM today boasts over 3.5 million active users globally, with more than 60 prestigious industry awards already obtained. Aside from its Cent account, the broker also offers other attractive options, such as the Pro and Premium accounts, with exclusive benefits and state-of-the-art trading tools. As of today, traders choosing to work with HFM gain access to over 3,500 instruments from various asset classes, accompanied by the firm's expert support team, available for assistance 24/5. www.hfm.com



View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/hfms-unique-cent-account-just-recently-launched-already-gains-impressive-traction-301868586.html

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Today, Kansas City's foremost criminology expert blesses our TKC blog community with a bold perspective that is overlooked by every other media outlet.

Agree or disagree . . . We RESPECT the premise of a recent note from Dr. Ernest Evans.

From our vantage, here's his argument . . .



We can't hope to solve the KCMO homicide crisis if we aren't allowed to talk about it.

A preface to his analysis . . .



"A lot of people in our city do not want to hear these painful factsbut the only way to bring the situation under control is to acknowledge what is happening."

Dr. Evans is a thoughtful and educated man. He know the risks involved in bringing up these inconvenient facts but, it seems that he's willing to take the heat if his words can help save lives.

Here's another insight . . .



"I realize fully that I will be accused of racism for pointing out this painful realityand "Frankly, my dear, I don't give a damn." My interest is in stopping this crime surge in the black neighborhoods of the cityif the price of doing that is me being called a racist then that is a price I am quite willing to pay."



And so, here's the important data sent to our TKC blog community . . . We share this note if only so that information, data and an honest effort to STOP THE VIOLENCE will serve as the guiding principal of this discussion and future considerations . . .



Crime Surge in Black Neighborhoods of KCMO



"There has been a great deal of media attention focused on the surge in the number of homicides in KCMO in 2023. If we are to bring this crime crisis under control, its exact nature must be understood. So, allow me to point out something that a lot of people around town do not want to hear:

"The crime surge is entirely in the black neighborhoods of the city."

"Specifically, at this point in 2022 there had been 73 homicides17 white/Asian /Hispanic and 56 black. As of today in KCMO, in 2023 there have been 17 white/Asian/Hispanic homicides and 80 black homicides."

"I stress that why there is this surge of violence in the black neighborhoods of the city can be debated. I am not interested in a "blame game"--only in stopping this ongoing surge of violence affecting the black people of the city. If we are to stop this wave of violence, its existence must first be acknowledged."

##########



Developing . . .


Once again we dive into news about panties along with references and info on pop culture, community news and top headlines.



Check TKC news gathering . . .

Angry About Eras

St. Louis family scammed out of Taylor Swift tickets ahead of KC concert Many are falling prey to ticket scammers ahead of big summer concerts, and one St. Louis family knows that pain all too well.

Be Careful Driving!!!

One dead after single car crash near Brush Creek, Ward Parkway One person is dead after a car crash late Friday night, on Ward Parkway near Brush Creek.

Show-Me Road Work . . .

Missouri governor signs off on I-70 expansion and $52B state budget Missouri Gov. Mike Parson on Friday signed a close to $52 billion state budget, which includes billions in funding to expand part of Interstate 70 between Kansas City and St. Louis

Rock Chalk New Rules

Kansans woke up to dozens of new state laws delving into crime, gender, guns and food - Kansas Reflector Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly and Republican-led Kansas Legislature tangled over many issues in 2023 session, leading to 77 new laws taking effect Saturday.

Insect Politics Pondered

Stowers Institute scientist studies fruit flies to find out how memories are made You may walk away with a newfound respect for something you can find in your kitchen. We're talking about fruit flies.

Skivvies For Sale . . .

Victoria's Secret expands business to Amazon for the first time You can now shop Victoria's Secret and PINK right on Amazon. Shop bestselling bras, underwear, pajamas and beauty favorites.

More Deets On Double Down

Biden's backdoor student loan forgiveness plan A new loan repayment plan could cost the federal government hundreds of billions of dollars.

MAGA Flexes On Foes

Trump rally packs small city in South Carolina show of force His appearance was a shot across the bow in a critical primary state with two home-grown contenders.

From Russia With No Love . . .

CIA director says Wagner Group rebellion is a "vivid reminder" of the "corrosive effect" of Putin's regime In his first public remarks on the matter, William Burns said the U.S. "has had and will have no part" in Prigozhin's rebellion or its fallout.

Flipper For The Win . . .

'I knew it was circling me': Man attacked by shark was waiting to die, then dolphins saved his life NatGeo Sharkfest episode focuses on stories of whales and dolphins saving people from sharks. But are they really trying to protect us?

Twit Throttle Proposed

Elon Musk sets new daily Twitter limits for users Elon Musk said verified accounts would be limited to reading 6,000 posts per day while unverified users will be limited to 600.

More Cowtown Eras Hype

Royals invite you to spend an 'Enchanted' night at Kaufman We have less than a week until Taylor Swift takes the stage in Kansas City and the Royals are celebrating at the ballpark.

EXCELLENT PIX!!!

Brief Garden Visit Photography Blog

Katie Shares Forecast

Saturday showers moving through the metro Saturday morning showers, then scattered storms in the afternoon

And this is the OPEN THREAD for right now.
Don't worry we're not getting too preachy here . . . Just wanted to start off with a reference that might or might not have been penned by Shakespeare . . .

"For what shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul?"

It's a question that only po'folk ponder which makes our mediocrity seem strangely virtuous.

But, in our caffeine-addled brain the words bring to mind the glorious triumph of KC Tenants Power in the recent election . . . And once again begs the question . . .

WHY HAVE KC TENANTS REMAINED SILENT IN THE JACKSON COUNTY PROPERTY TAX FIGHT OF 2023???

There have been bold declarations of their power and influence . . . But a week after so-called ground/shifting changes in local politics . . .We've yet to see the results of KC Tenants and their EPIC victory.



Heck . . . Promo party dude Hartzell hasn't YET offered a bold declarations or trendy protestations . . .



But don't mistake our snark for skepticism . . .



Surly, KC Tenants Power & their many supporters are eager to make an impact on the Jackson County Property Tax crisis and it wasn't all just some dark money election branding, right?!?



The reality . . . KC denizens are willing to take help from whoever offers given that . . .



The consequences of EPIC property tax hikes also confront renters . . .

Take a peek . . .



"Landlords tell KMBC that they will likely have to increase rents by $50 to $100 per home because of those higher taxes and as well as higher insurance in Jackson County."



Accordingly, we share an indicator with our blog community . . .

UNLESS KC TENANTS & THEIR ARMY OF PROTESTERS STEP UP IN THIS FIGHT . . . THEY'RE JUST A BUNCH OF TALK & BRIGHTLY COLORED T-SHIRTS!!!



We encourage locals to WATCH the real world impact (or lack thereof) when it comes to campaign promises.



Read more via www.TonysKansasCity.com link . . .
A bullet hole in a door in Sameera Abdys apartment building serves as a constant reminder of the gun violence plaguing her community.
100 years ago,

July 2, 1923

MATTOON  Beginning today, all pool hall proprietors who have been selling soft drinks over bars or counters in their places of business must eliminate this sort of trade or suffer the consequences, according to an edict issued to them this morning by Chief of Police Portlock. This, according to Portlock, is in accordance with the provisions of an ordinance passed by the city council some years ago. The pool hall proprietors - three of them who have been selling such drinks - were told that they might dispose of the stocks they had on hand. All readily agreed to eliminate this sort of business. The chief said he believed that such business tends to attract to the pool halls boys and youths who have no business there. Mayor Ozee, at the beginning of his administration on May 1, had virtually decided not to issue pool licenses during his term of officer, but decided later to issue them...CHARLESTON  Nelson Freeman, the fifteen-year-old son of Ernest Freeman of Charleston, was detained this morning by Deputy Sheriff Shirley on complaint of the boy's father. The boy decided to see the world and started out in his father's car Sunday afternoon, getting as far as Mattoon. The father came to Mattoon this morning to get the car and the boy.

50 years ago, 1973

TOLEDO  The body of Benjamin E. White was pulled from the Embarras River about 8:30 a.m. Saturday. White, 34, of rural Lerna had been missing since 1:30 a.m. Friday when he entered the river near Ryan Bridge, about seven miles northeast of Toledo. The body was found tangled in a grape vine near the spot where White entered the river by officers of the Illinois Department of Conservation. White was reported missing by three witnesses, Robert Greeson, 36; Greeson's son, Mike, 13; and Lonnie Lucas. The Cumberland County sheriff's officer said the three reported the incident at 3 a.m. Friday. They told authorities White said he was going for a swim. Asked what White and his companions were doing near the bridge prior to White's disappearance, Cumberland County Coroner Charles Hiles said: "I don't know. They weren't fishing, I guess, just sort of horsing around." Hiles asked why the incident was not reported to authorities until 3 a.m. "At that hour they might have done a little hopeful looking themselves," said Hiles. "Then they would have to get to a telephone. That might take time. They might have thought he would show up. It is kind of an odd situation," said Hiles. The coroner said an inquest would be held "as soon as we get an autopsy report from Dr. (Byron) Ruskin of Mattoon. I imagine we will receive it in a day or two."

25 years ago, 1998

CHARLESTON  Six hairs and some apparent footprints may prove that huge mammals roamed Coles County 20,000 years ago. "It could be the hard evidence we need," said Vincent Gutowski, a professor in EIU's geology/geography department. For 10 years, Gutowski and a host of undergraduate students have sifted through and pored over countless bucketloads of dirt, rock, and debris taken from digs near the banks of the nearby Embarras River. Tree stumps discovered during a routine class exercise were the first indication that something very special was happening. "What was unusual was how well-preserved they were, and that they were found rooted - still standing upright," Gutowski said. "That was significant in proving that the stumps had developed there rather than having been moved to that location." EIU researchers also found depressions, or holes, in the old soil measuring nearly 40 inches across and more than nine inches deep. Jeffrey Saunders, research scientist at the Illinois State Museum in Springfield, is "99 percent sure" that the depressions are tracks from very large mammals traveling though very shallow water, Gutowski said. The most likely candidates are known as mastodons, earlier and larger ancestors of the modern-day elephant.'

Photos: Remembering Alan Arkin, 1934-2023
Spain will soon supply Ukraine with an additional four Leopard tanks, armored personnel carriers and a mobile field hospital.

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez said this at a joint press conference with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in Kyiv on Saturday, July 1, according to an Ukrinform correspondent.

"Spain will soon deliver new military hardware to help [Ukraine] in the war, including four Leopard tanks and armored personnel carriers. We will also supply a mobile field hospital with surgical equipment. This element should bolster Ukraine's ability to provide assistance to wounded military personnel and civilians near the front line," Sanchez said.

He also noted that in the past few months, Spain has provided various types of assistance to more than 650 Ukrainian citizens, many of whom were wounded in action.

"I am also pleased to inform you that after our bilateral talks during my latest visit to Kyiv, Ukrainian therapists are already undergoing advanced training in the city of Zaragoza. They study modern methods of treatment and the use of prostheses. Even more specialists will arrive in Spain every next three weeks for training. They will be able to provide better treatment and rehabilitation," Sanchez said.

Sanchez is visiting Ukraine on Saturday.
Karen Parker, the first Black woman to receive an undergraduate degree from UNC Chapel Hill, says she was saddened by Thursdays U.S. Supreme Court ruling that struck down affirmative action in college admissions.

It brought me to tears, said Parker, a 1965 UNC graduate and a former copy editor at the Winston-Salem Journal. Im very emotional about it right now.

I would like to think that I didnt get in (UNC) because of affirmative action, Parker said. But I did get in because of affirmative action.

Affirmative action has benefited Parker throughout her life, she said.

I just know my life would have been very different if not for affirmative action, Parker said. Im grateful it was around when I needed it.

Many local and state educational leaders denounced the courts ruling, but university officials in North Carolina said they will comply with it.

The courts landmark decision left colleges across the nation searching for new ways to promote student diversity.

Gov. Roy Cooper said the courts ruling undermines decades of progress made across the country to reduce systemic discrimination and promote diversity on campuses which is an important part of a quality education.

Campus leaders will now have to work even harder to ensure that North Carolinians of all backgrounds are represented in higher education, Cooper said, and to ensure strong, diverse student bodies at our colleges and universities to train the next generation of leaders for North Carolina and the nation.

President Susan Wente of Wake Forest University said in a statement that her school will not waiver in its commitment to creating and sustaining inclusive, diverse learning communities.

The universitys mission and values have not and will not change, Wente said.

We will continue to recruit and enroll academically qualified students of diverse backgrounds who seek an intellectual home at Wake Forest where they belong and thrive, and in compliance of the courts ruling, Wente said.

Jose A. Villalba, Wake Forests vice president for diversity and inclusion, also said his institution will continue to recruit and enroll academically qualified students of diverse backgrounds.

Ernie Wade, the director of minority affairs at Wake Forest from 1986 to 1995, said the courts ruling was unfortunate.

Thats a big step backwards, Wade said.

In the aftermath of the courts ruling, fewer people of color will be accepted to attend predominantly white colleges and universities, Wade said. In turn, historically Black colleges and universities may see increases in student enrollment from their applicants, he said.

President Summer J. McGee of Salem Academy and College reaffirmed the schools commitment to diversity in the wake of the courts ruling.

This decision yesterday has come with great disappointment and concern for me as I am sure it has for many across our community, McGee said. I want everyone in our Salem family to know that we stand with you in support, and our deep and long-standing commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion remains unchanged today.

UNC System officials are reviewing the courts ruling, and they will follow the law, President Peter Hans of the UNC System said.

Our public universities do extraordinary work every day to serve students of all backgrounds, beliefs, income levels and life experiences, Hans said in a statement. Every student in North Carolina should know that the UNC System welcomes their talent and ambition.

The most important work of higher education is not in deciding how to allocate limited admissions slots at highly competitive schools, but in reaching and encouraging more students to take advantage of our 16 remarkable public universities, Hans said.

The system includes the Triad schools of Winston-Salem State University, UNC Greensboro, N.C. A&T State University in Greensboro and the UNC School of the Arts in Winston-Salem.

UNC Chancellor Kevin Guskiewicz also issued a statement about the courts ruling.

Carolina is committed to bringing together talented students with different perspectives and life experiences and to making an affordable, high-quality education accessible to the people of North Carolina and beyond, Guskiewicz said.

I know that this decision may raise questions about our future and how we fulfill our mission and live out our values, Guskiewicz said. But Carolina is built for this, and we have been preparing for any outcome.

Our leadership team will need time to thoroughly review the details of this outcome and its potential impact before determining specifically how we will comply with this decision. In the coming weeks, we will communicate our plans with the campus community, Guskiewicz said.

Jelani Favors, a professor of history and politics at N.C. A&T, sharply criticized the courts ruling.

It is shameful, regressive and ignores the multitude of other criteria that are often used to admit students to college, Favors said. The ruling says nothing about the children of large donors, legacies or athletes who will still be given preferential admissions.

The Supreme Court ruling not only undercuts those who are less privileged, it also undermines the efforts of those who understand that more diverse and equitable spaces in higher education are inextricably linked to producing the beloved community that the civil rights generation fought and died for, Favors said. Simply put, we are clearly not learning from the sins of our past, and that is never healthy for our society.

U.S. Rep. Virginia Foxx, R-5th, wrote in a tweet that the courts ruling is a victory for students across the country.

Academias ivory towers should not divide and promote preferences based on the color of ones skin, Foxx wrote. In America, fairness is the key to educational opportunity, where ones success is judged by merit rather than arbitrary quotas.

Postsecondary education has been plagued by affirmative action for far too long, Foxx said, and Im pleased that the Supreme Court has finally upheld the equal protection of students. Fairness and merit will finally receive the due deference they deserve.

U.S. Sen. Thom Tillis, R-N.C. agreed with Foxx, writing in a tweet, The Supreme Court made the right decision today. Colleges should not be able to discriminate against applicants based on the color of their skin.
PortauPrince, July 2 (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 2nd Jul, 2023 ) :On a visit to spotlight violence and chaos in Haiti, the UN secretary-general on Saturday called for a robust international effort to help the country's beleaguered police in fighting rampant criminal gangs.

For months, Antonio Guterres has raised the alarm bell about the situation in the Western Hemisphere's poorest country, which has been wracked by spiralling violence, a worsening public health situation and political instability.

But he traveled to Port-au-Prince -- his first visit to Haiti as head of the United Nations -- to make his point on the ground.

"We must put Haiti on the international political map, and make the tragedy of the Haitian people the international community's top priority," Guterres told a press conference.

"I met Haitians, and I felt the exhaustion of a population that has been facing a cascade of crises and unbearable living conditions for too long," he said.

"This is not the time to forget about Haiti," Guterres said after meeting with Prime Minister Ariel Henry, and other political and civil society leaders.

Guterres urged the UN Security Council, which is due to discuss the Haiti situation later this month, "to authorize the immediate deployment of a robust international security force." In October, he relayed Henry's request for a non-UN force to support the overwhelmed national police force.

But the call has gone unheeded. A few countries have indicated their willingness to participate, but none has volunteered to lead an operation in a country where multiple past foreign interventions have become mired.

"I call on those states that have the capacity to provide a robust security force to stop hesitating and be ready to follow a Security Council decision," Guterres said.

"Every day counts. If we don't act now, instability and violence will have a lasting impact on generations of Haitians."
MOSCOW (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 02nd July, 2023) The Iranian Foreign Ministry on Sunday advised citizens against traveling to France, where unrest has continued throughout the week, and urged Paris to stop the violence.

"The government of France is expected to stop coercive treatment of its people by respecting the principles based upon human dignity, freedom of speech, and the citizens' right to peaceful protests," foreign ministry spokesman Nasser Kanaani was quoted as saying by the Tasnim news agency.

The foreign ministry's travel advisory also urged Iranians already in France to avoid unnecessary presence in the French cities and clash scenes for the duration of "insecure and unpredictable situation.

"

Unrest has engulfed France since Tuesday, when a teenager of North African descent was shot dead by a policeman for alleged non-compliance during a traffic stop in Nanterre, a suburb of Paris. The officer who pulled the trigger on 17-year-old Nahel M. has been taken into custody over voluntary manslaughter, but this did not stop the protesters.

Violent protests have escalated into riots and looting, prompting authorities in some parts of France to impose partial curfews and limitations on public transport. The French Interior Ministry has been reporting detentions and cases of injuries among the policemen daily.
Rest of the story

When you hear the term "book ban," red flags go up. That is intentional in this day and time.

Headlines, sound bites and memes are not the whole picture, but these days there are enough to start a riot (verbal or kinetic) without context or background.

Teachers and librarians (school and public) fight back, loudly declaring they must protect literature. Parents fight back against what they view as inappropriate material for their children.

As a former teacher I was a member of the committee that addressed parental book objections. Our procedure was to read the entire book, discuss the objection and come to a conclusion about the book and the validity of the concern. In other words: research. In my opinion that is the missing element.

Find the books, read them, consider the student age group and watch YouTube videos depicting parents speaking at school board meetings, attempting to read aloud parts of books, being shut down as "inappropriate " for public meetings.

Why are there laws that porn stores cannot be in the vicinity of schools? Were those stores/material banned? No, access was determined to be inappropriate for children and young people.

In my opinion this has nothing to do with acceptance of LGBTQ rights, just protecting young brains from being presented with information they are too young to process.

Patricia Williams

Bermuda Run

GOP knows S-E-X

It is reassuring that state Sen. Joyce Krawiec and the Republican Party are so smart. They know more and have better insight into health care and the psychological well-being of patients than the American Medical Association, the American Academy of Pediatrics and the Endocrine Society!

Gosh, I wish others could be that smart.

What is it with sexual matters that demands so much attention from Republicans? Birth control, abortion and gender identity all seem like unhealthy fixations. Freud would be interested.

They could instead focus more on the schools. Oh wait ... they're already taking money from public schools to help the wealthy to attend private schools.

One shudders to think if and when it will stop.

Bill Vaassen

Rural Hall

Wanted: Leaders

Real leaders, where are you?

In this divisive contentious time, we need  we are desperate for  leaders who will rise above the fray to work to bring us together, to find the common good and to address the issues of our country.

In all levels of government and society in general, we need men and women of honor and integrity, women and men who will treat others with courtesy and respect, men and women who will look for common ground, build a consensus and move forward with solutions, rather than telling us how bad the other side is, and espousing endless demagoguery.

We need women and men who set the example. We are innately better than what we have displayed in recent years.

Real leaders,it is time to step up. We need you, so we can leave a better country and world for those who follow us.

Jay Vincent

Blowing Rock

Go electric

The low-air-quality days we have had recently because of the forest fires in Canada really brought home to me that, when it comes to climate change, it is a small world.

I want to protect Mother Earth, especially the air our children breathe. My thoughts jumped from dirty air from forest fires to more ubiquitous causes of dirty air that are closer to home.

Do you remember riding a diesel school bus as a child? I remember the noise and the smell of those buses. These days, children still go to school on diesel buses, as more than 90% of all schoolchildren who ride buses in the U.S. do, but things could be different.

The 2021 Investment Infrastructure & Jobs Act allocated $5 billion in grants through 2026 for school districts to electrify their fleets. The EPA already has awarded $500 million in grants to school districts to purchase electric buses, and $400 million more is available to school districts in 2023.

Some school districts have yet to apply, and of course, some districts do not even know about the funding. If Forsyth County applied for and won one of these grants, our children would have cleaner air. Not only that, winning school districts can expect much lower maintenance costs (as is true of all electric vehicles) and even perhaps increased local electricity efficiency if the buses can feed power back to the grid when unused.

I hope the Winston-Salem/Forsyth County School District has applied for these funds  or that it will before the Aug. 22 deadline. Wouldn't it be nice if future generations remembered traveling to school in zero-emission school buses?

Sheri Grace

Rural Hall
An Iranian appeals court has jailed for five years prominent activist and journalist Golrokh Iraee who has been held since her arrest at the onset of a protest movement, supporters said Sunday.

Iraee had refused to take part in the appeals court hearing over her sentence for taking part in illegal gatherings and violating national security, saying she did not recognize the legitimacy of the court, rights groups have said.

She was arrested last September in a police raid on her home at the start of the protest movement sparked by the death of Mahsa Amini who had been detained for allegedly violating the strict dress rules for women.

"Golrokh Iraee, who been in Evin prison for 280 days, was sentenced to 5 years of imprisonment" by the Tehran court, according to a Twitter account in her name run by supporters.

The court of first instance initially sentenced her to seven years in April.

Well-known for her campaigns on issues including stoning sentences and prison conditions, Iraee is the wife of activist Arash Sadeghi, who was also arrested during the protest movement but has now been released.

Some activists arrested during Iran's crackdown on the protest movement have been released over the past few months as the protests abated in intensity.

But prominent women campaigners remain behind bars including the prize-winning Narges Mohammadi, labor rights activist Sepideh Gholian and environmental campaigners Niloufar Bayani and Sepideh Kashani.

Meanwhile, the two women journalists who did most to expose the case of Amini  Niloufar Hamedi and Elaheh Mohammadi, also both held since September  are on trial in Tehran on national security charges.
The United Arab Emirates, host of this year's U.N. climate talks, must release dozens of Emirati nationals "unjustly imprisoned" in a 2013 mass trial, Amnesty International said Sunday, decrying the country's rights record.

In a statement marking a decade since the trial concluded, Amnesty warned that the COP28 meeting would be "tarnished by repression" if the 60 Emiratis still languishing in prison are not immediately freed.

The UAE "is in the international spotlight through its upcoming hosting of the most important annual climate change conference," said Heba Morayef, Amnesty's regional director for the Middle East.

But "its government has not released any of the 60 Emiratis it unjustly imprisoned in the notorious mass trial of 2013, even though 51 of those detained have completed their sentence," she said in a statement.

The so-called "UAE94" trial followed a spate of arrests and persecutions in 2012 targeting 94 Emirati critics of the government, including activists, lawyers, students and teachers.

The UAE charged dozens of suspects with links to the Muslim Brotherhood, which it considers a "terrorist group."

The case has drawn criticism from rights groups, especially in the lead-up to COP28, due to be held in the UAE financial hub of Dubai from November 30.

"COP28 will not bring about the ambitious action we need to avoid climate breakdown if it is held in an environment where the host state has laws that restrict the freedom of expression," Morayef said.

"If governments around the world want to ensure that COP28 is not tarnished by repression... they must act now by pressuring the Emirati government to urgently release these prisoners."

In May, more than 40 human rights groups issued a petition demanding the immediate release of the Emirati detainees.

That same month, an Emirati-Turkish dual national sentenced in absentia to 15 years' jail as part of the mass trial was extradited to the UAE from Jordan.
U.S. President Joe Biden is leaving in a week on a five-day, three-nation trip to Europe, the White House said Sunday, with the key stop at the annual NATO summit in Vilnius, Lithuania, where Western leaders plan to discuss their latest efforts to bolster Ukraines fight against Russia.

Biden is heading first to London next Sunday on the July 9-13 trip, where over two days he is planning to meet with King Charles and Prime Minister Rishi Sunak to further strengthen the close relationship between our nations, the White House said.

The U.S. leader then heads to Lithuania for two days of NATO meetings where leaders of the 31-nation Western military alliance will discuss the state of Ukraines counteroffensive to recapture territory in the southeastern part of the country that Russia took in the earliest stages of 16 months of fighting.

SEE ALSO: Wagner Move Rattles Baltic Nerves, Broadens NATO Summit Agenda Beyond Ukraine NATO countries, led by the United States, have sent billions of dollars of armaments to Ukraine, but Russian aerial bombardments have continued to kill dozens of Ukrainian civilians even as Kyivs forces have shot down hundreds of incoming missiles. The ones that have landed have proved devastating, killing people and destroying their residential buildings.

After the NATO summit, Biden is heading to Helsinki, the Finnish capital, to mark Finland recently joining the military alliance created in the aftermath of World War II, and to meet with Nordic leaders.

Biden did not attend Charless coronation in London in May, instead sending first lady Jill Biden to represent the U.S. Biden last month hosted Sunak at the White House.

SEE ALSO: NATO Says Western Aid to Ukraine 'Making a Difference' NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg also met with Biden at the White House last month, where the two leaders pledged their continued support of Ukraine in its war against Russia.

"The NATO allies have never been more united. We both worked like hell to make sure that happened. And so far, so good," Biden said as he sat alongside Stoltenberg.

Finland joined NATO in April, effectively doubling Russia's border with the world's biggest security alliance. Biden has characterized the strengthened NATO alliance as a sign of Moscow's declining influence.

SEE ALSO: Blinken Encourages Turkish Counterpart to Support Sweden's NATO Bid Sweden is also seeking entry into NATO, although alliance members Turkey and Hungary have yet to endorse the move. Biden is hosting Sweden's prime minister, Ulf Kristersson, at the White House on Wednesday as a show of support for its bid for NATO membership.

Turkey President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has said Sweden is too lax on terrorist groups and security threats, while Stoltenberg has said Sweden has met its obligations for NATO membership by toughening anti-terrorist laws and other measures. Hungary's reasons for opposing Sweden have been less defined, complaining about Sweden's criticism of democratic backsliding and the erosion of the rule of law.

All NATO nations have to ratify the entry of new member countries.
WASHINGTON - Efforts to establish robust, independent civil societies are facing headwinds in the post-Soviet republics of Central Asia, where foreign-funded NGOs have long been regarded as agents of Western influence and even purveyors of color revolutions.

Despite their suspicions, regional governments have reluctantly allowed some space for these nongovernmental organizations to operate, largely due to pressure from the United States and the European Union. But supporters are warning of new regulations that will further restrict and even criminalize their activities.

Kyrgyzstan has the regions most robust civil society, which activists say is now under direct threat. In Uzbekistan, officials boast of thousands of functioning NGOs, but they are subject to tight controls and onerous checks.

Experts there note the phenomenon of the GONGO  government-organized nongovernmental organizations  which may appear independent but are actually run by the government.

Bishkek and Tashkent both say they welcome foreign assistance and claim to support the development of civil society. In reality, NGOs struggle greatly to obtain registration and function.

Foreign representative bill in Kyrgyzstan

Earlier this month, several prominent human rights groups issued a joint statement urging lawmakers in Kyrgyzstan to reject a bill introduced by 33 legislators. The signatories included Human Rights Watch, the International Partnership for Human Rights, Norwegian Helsinki Committee, Helsinki Foundation for Human Rights, Front Line Defenders, Freedom Now, International Federation for Human Rights, and the World Organization Against Torture.

This draft law, which draws heavily on corresponding Russian legislation and is primarily aimed at stigmatizing and restricting the activities of foreign-funded organizations, poses a direct and serious threat to Kyrgyzstans vibrant civil society, in particular human rights defenders and their organizations, the statement said.

If adopted, the draft law risks reversing previous achievements with respect to civil society development in the country and eroding the crucial role played by nongovernmental groups in promoting human rights, assisting those in need, and implementing other activities in support of the public good.

The coalition has urged Kyrgyzstans partners to speak out against this repressive legislative initiative, stressing that its adoption would hurt assistance programs.

The draft law is incompatible with international human rights obligations, restricting freedom of association and expression, as well as introducing in some cases criminal liability for nongovernmental organizations and their staff members, said Syinat Sultanalieva, HRW Central Asia researcher.

Similar proposals have been pushed in Bishkek for a decade. Some lawmakers say a foreign agent law is needed to defend the national interests of Kyrgyzstan, where the government has been overthrown several times since 2005.

This years initiative labels foreign-funded entities as foreign representatives, and arms the Justice Ministry with new powers, such as the right to make unscheduled inspections. If a group fails to register, its activities could be suspended without a court decision.

The draft would grant the government enhanced oversight powers, with representatives of the Justice Ministry allowed to participate in the internal activities of nongovernmental organizations and the right to bar organizations operating in the country from receiving funds from foreign sources.

It also introduces criminal liability  ranging from fines to as much as 10 years in prison  for establishing or participating in an NGO found to be inciting citizens to refuse to perform civic duties or to commit other unlawful deeds.

VOAs sources in Bishkek say the bill appears to have been removed from the agenda of the relevant parliamentary committee and at least 13 lawmakers are no longer supporting it. But optimism is unwarranted, say activists, who continue to engage the MPs.

Changes coming in Uzbekistan?

In Uzbekistan, the situation is a little more hopeful. There, the government is thought to be reconsidering a year-old decree requiring significant size-grant receivers to partner with state institutions.

We believe they are reviewing the policy and are determined to ease the terms for civil society, said Eldor Tulyakov, head of the Development Strategy Center, an NGO founded by the administration of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev in 2017.

Last years decision by the Cabinet triggered debates within the NGO community and beyond, Tulyakov said in an interview. Such requirements are seen as direct interference in the work of entities that are supposed to be independent.

But, Tulyakov said, this measure enables civil society to navigate the system faster with a committed official partner, assisting it in specific parts of the country focusing on specific issues. He told VOA that groups should trust the governments promises of continued reforms.

Tulyakov sees the U.S. Agency for International Development playing a constructive role in building trust between NGOs and the government. Their projects are designed to help us develop, to demonstrate how civil society works  supporting people and helping the state to serve them.

NGOs as key socioeconomic actors

Mukhayo Portmann, who has run programs for international organizations in Central Asia, argues that any responsible government values civil society because it completes its work and delivers key services to the population.

Ultimately, it is about the well-being of your people, and NGOs ease the states tasks, Portmann said in an interview.

For her, the official suspicion of grants from other governments and of activists who pursue goals such as fighting corruption and promoting democracy is the legacy of the Soviet system.

Yet it is a mistake to assume that civil society groups only push for human rights, Portmann said.

Civil society is a significant economic contributor," she said. "Look at the data and this sectors growth impact. NGOs and donors must showcase those results. Most of these groups consist of grassroots volunteers, and solve day-to-day issues where the government is missing the mark.

Portmann urges NGOs to be transparent in order to dispel suspicions. Your beneficiaries, the communities you serve, need to know your mission and how you are funded," she said. "If people benefit from your work, they will often come out supporting you and the governments will have to acknowledge your service.

Portmann sees a rocky road ahead for civil society in Central Asia, yet is optimistic that perceptions can improve.

To be independent and influential, you need to connect with the people," she said. "I remember doing rural projects in Kyrgyzstan, where we engaged women, youth, farmers and the authorities. They knew the NGOs involved in the area and that helped everyone.
PARIS  Young rioters clashed with police late Saturday and early Sunday and targeted a mayor's home with a burning car as France faced a fifth night of unrest sparked by the police killing of a teenager, but overall violence appeared to lessen compared to previous nights.

Police made 719 arrests nationwide by early Sunday after a mass security deployment aimed at quelling France's worst social upheaval in years.

The fast-spreading crisis is posing a new challenge to President Emmanuel Macron's leadership and exposing deep-seated discontent in low-income neighborhoods over discrimination and lack of opportunity.

The 17-year-old whose death Tuesday spawned the anger, identified by his first name, Nahel, was laid to rest Saturday in a Muslim ceremony in his hometown of Nanterre, a Paris suburb where emotion over his loss remains raw.

As night fell over the French capital, a small crowd gathered on the Champs-Elysees for a protest over Nahel's death and police violence but met hundreds of officers with batons and shields guarding the iconic avenue and its Cartier and Dior boutiques. In a less-chic neighborhood of northern Paris, protesters set off volleys of firecrackers and lit barricades on fire as police shot back with tear gas and stun grenades.

A burning car hit the home of the mayor of the Paris suburb of l'Hay-les-Roses overnight. Several schools, police stations, town halls and stores have been targeted by fires or vandalism in recent days but such a personal attack on a mayor's home is unusual.

Skirmishes erupted in the Mediterranean city of Marseille but appeared less intense than the night before, according to the Interior Ministry. A beefed-up police contingent arrested 55 people there.

Nationwide arrests were somewhat lower than the night before, which Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin attributed to "the resolute action of security forces."

Some 2,800 people have been detained overall since Nahel's death on Tuesday. The mass police deployment has been welcomed by some frightened residents of targeted neighborhoods and shopowners whose stores have been ransacked  but it has further frustrated those who see police behavior as the core of France's current crisis.

The unrest took a toll on Macron's diplomatic standing. German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier's office said Macron phoned Saturday to request a postponement of what would have been the first state visit by a French president to Germany in 23 years. Macron had been scheduled to fly to Germany on Sunday.

Hundreds of French police and firefighters have been injured in the violence that erupted after the killing, though authorities haven't released injury tallies of protesters. In French Guiana, an overseas territory, a 54-year-old died after being hit by a stray bullet.

On Saturday, France's justice minister, Dupond-Moretti, warned that young people who share calls for violence on Snapchat or other apps could face legal prosecution. Macron has blamed social media for fueling violence.

The violence comes just over a year before Paris and other French cities are due to host Olympic athletes and millions of visitors for the summer Olympics, whose organizers were closely monitoring the situation as preparations for the competition continue.

At a hilltop cemetery in Nanterre, hundreds stood along the road Saturday to pay tribute to Nahel as mourners carried his white casket from a mosque to the burial site. His mother, dressed in white, walked inside the cemetery amid applause and headed toward the grave. Many of the men were young and Arab or Black, coming to mourn a boy who could have been them.

This week, Nahel's mother told France 5 television that she was angry at the officer who shot her son at a traffic stop, but not at the police in general.

"He saw a little Arab-looking kid. He wanted to take his life," she said. Nahel's family has roots in Algeria.

Video of the killing showed two officers at the window of the car, one with his gun pointed at the driver. As the teenager pulled forward, the officer fired once through the windshield. The officer accused of killing Nahel was given a preliminary charge of voluntary homicide.

Thirteen people who didn't comply with traffic stops were fatally shot by French police last year, and three this year, prompting demands for more accountability. France also saw protests against police violence and racial injustice after George Floyd's killing by police in Minnesota.

The reaction to the killing was a potent reminder of the persistent poverty, discrimination and limited job prospects in neighborhoods around France where many residents trace their roots to former French colonies  like where Nahel grew up.

"Nahel's story is the lighter that ignited the gas. Hopeless young people were waiting for it. We lack housing and jobs, and when we have (jobs), our wages are too low," said Samba Seck, a 39-year-old transportation worker in the Paris suburb of Clichy-sous-Bois.

Clichy was the birthplace of weeks of riots in 2005 that shook France, prompted by the death of two teenagers electrocuted in a power substation while fleeing from police. One of the boys lived in the same housing project as Seck.

New violence targeted his town this week. As he spoke, the remains of a burned car stood beneath his apartment building, and the town hall entrance was set alight in rioting Friday.

"Young people break everything, but we are already poor, we have nothing," he said. Still, he said he understood the rioters' anger, adding that "young people are afraid to die at the hands of police."
Editor's note: Here is a look at immigration-related news around the U.S. this week. Questions? Tips? Comments? Email the VOA immigration team: ImmigrationUnit@voanews.com.

Detained Migrant Minors in US Get More Phone Time With Family

Unaccompanied migrant children in U.S. shelters will now be allowed longer phone calls with loved ones. That's because of a recent change in guidance announced by the U.S. agency that oversees the care and release of minors. VOA's immigration reporter Aline Barros has the story.

Minnesota Lawmaker Sends Message of Hope to Refugees

A Somali American who came to the U.S. as a refugee is now helping to chart the future of her state as an elected representative. Mohamud Mascadde sat down with Hodan Hassan for a one-on-one interview in Minneapolis, Minnesota, in this story narrated by Salem Solomon.

Immigration around the world

EU Leaders Resume Migration Talks

European Union leaders opened a second day of migration talks Friday as Poland and Hungary continued to block progress after they were outvoted earlier this month on a plan to share refugees arriving in Europe among the 27 member countries. The Associated Press reports.

Somali Refugees Rush to Kenyan Camps for IDs, US Relocation Opportunity

Somali refugees are heading to the Dadaab refugee camps in Kenya to register for identification, in hopes of securing relocation to the U.S. and other Western countries. The rush follows the creation of a program that allows Americans to sponsor refugees arriving through the U.S. Refugee Admissions Program. Juma Majanga reports from the Dadaab camps.

Zimbabweans in South Africa Get Relief from Court Ruling

About 180,000 Zimbabweans working in South Africa who faced the threat of being kicked out of the country, even if their children are citizens, have welcomed a court ruling to stop the action. Pretoria's High Court ruled the government's plan to terminate their special residency permits was unconstitutional. Kate Bartlett reports.

UN to Establish Independent Body to Clarify Fate of Missing Syrians

The U.N. General Assembly approved a resolution Thursday that will establish an independent body to determine what happened to more than 130,000 people missing because of the conflict in Syria. The Associated Press reports.

Despite Uncertainty, Syrian Refugees in Turkey Remain Hopeful

More than 3 million Syrians have made Turkey home since the start of their country's conflict in 2011. Despite the challenges of life in Turkey, many have remained active, trying to help other Syrian refugees. VOA's Eyyup Demir has the story from Ankara, narrated by Sirwan Kajjo.

News brief

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security has a full webpage dedicated to migration and the border. There, readers will find the U.S. immigration system explained, the difference between Title 8 and Title 42, information on enforcement, and more.
Airline passengers who have endured tens of thousands of weather-related flight delays this week could face a new source of disruptions starting Saturday, when wireless providers are expected to power up new 5G systems near major airports.

Aviation groups have warned for years that 5G signals could interfere with aircraft equipment, especially devices using radio waves to measure distance from the ground and which are critical when planes land in low visibility.

Predictions that interference would cause massive flight groundings failed to come true last year, when telecom companies began rolling out the new service. They then agreed to limit the power of the signals around busy airports, giving airlines an extra year to upgrade their planes.

The leader of the nation's largest pilots' union said crews will be able to handle the impact of 5G, but he criticized the way the wireless licenses were granted, saying it had added unnecessary risk to aviation.

Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg recently told airlines that flights could be disrupted because a small portion of the nation's fleet has not been upgraded to protect against radio interference.

Most of the major U.S. airlines say they are ready. American, Southwest, Alaska, Frontier and United say all of their planes have height-measuring devices, called radio altimeters, that are protected against 5G interference.

The big exception is Delta Air Lines. Delta says 190 of its planes, which include most of its smaller ones, still lack upgraded altimeters because its supplier has been unable to provide them fast enough.

The airline does not expect to cancel any flights because of the issue, Delta said Friday. The airline plans to route the 190 planes carefully to limit the risk of canceling flights or forcing planes to divert from airports where visibility is low because of fog or low clouds.

The Delta planes that have not been retrofitted include several models of Airbus jets. The airline's Boeing jets have upgraded altimeters, as do all Delta Connection planes, which are operated by Endeavor Air, Republic Airways and SkyWest Airlines, the airline said.

JetBlue did not respond to requests for comment but told The Wall Street Journal it expected to retrofit 17 smaller Airbus jets by October, with possible "limited impact" some days in Boston.

Wireless carriers including Verizon and AT&T use a part of the radio spectrum called C-Band, which is close to frequencies used by radio altimeters, for their new 5G service. The Federal Communications Commission granted them licenses for the C-Band spectrum and dismissed any risk of interference, saying there was ample buffer between C-Band and altimeter frequencies.

When the Federal Aviation Administration sided with airlines and objected, the wireless companies pushed back the rollout of their new service. In a compromise brokered by the Biden administration, the wireless carriers then agreed not to power up 5G signals near about 50 busy airports. That postponement ends Saturday.

AT&T declined to comment. Verizon did not immediately respond to a question about its plans.

Buttigieg reminded the head of trade group Airlines for America about the deadline in a letter last week, warning that only planes with retrofitted altimeters would be allowed to land under low-visibility conditions. He said more than 80% of the U.S. fleet had been retrofitted, but a significant number of planes, including many operated by foreign airlines, have not been upgraded.

"This means on bad-weather, low-visibility days in particular, there could be increased delays and cancelations," Buttigieg wrote. He said airlines with planes awaiting retrofitting should adjust their schedules to avoid stranding passengers.

Airlines say the FAA was slow to approve standards for upgrading the radio altimeters and supply-chain problems have made it difficult for manufacturers to produce enough of the devices. Nicholas Calio, head of the Airlines for America, complained about a rush to modify planes "amid pressure from the telecommunications companies."

Jason Ambrosi, a Delta pilot and president of the Air Line Pilots Association, accused the FCC of granting 5G licenses without consulting aviation interests, which he said "has left the safest aviation system in the world at increased risk." But, he said, "Ultimately, we will be able to address the impacts of 5G."
Iran will refrain from sending a new ambassador to Sweden in protest over the burning of a Koran outside a mosque in Stockholm, Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian said Sunday.

A man tore up and burned a Quran outside Stockholm's central mosque Wednesday, the first day of the Muslim Eid al-Adha holidays.

Swedish police charged the man who burned the holy book with agitation against an ethnic or national group. In a newspaper interview, he described himself as an Iraqi refugee seeking to ban it.

Iran's foreign ministry summoned Sweden's charge d'affaires Thursday to condemn what it said was an insult to the most sacred Islamic sanctities.

"Although administrative procedures to appoint a new ambassador to Sweden have ended, the process of dispatching them has been held off due to the Swedish government's issuing of a permit to desecrate the Holy Quran," Amirabdollahian said Sunday on Twitter.

He did not specify how long Iran would refrain from sending an ambassador to Sweden.

While Swedish police have rejected several recent applications for anti-Quran demonstrations, courts have overruled those decisions, saying they infringed freedom of speech.

In its permit for Wednesday's demonstration, Swedish police said that while it "may have foreign policy consequences," the security risks and consequences linked to a Quran burning were not of such a nature that the application should be rejected.
BEIRUT  Israel carried out airstrikes on areas near the central Syrian city of Homs early Sunday causing material damage but no casualties, the Syrian military said in a statement.

A Syrian anti-aircraft missile exploded over Israeli territory, the Israeli military said, prompting another round of strikes.

Syrian state media quoted an unnamed military official as saying the air defenses shot down some of the missiles fired by Israeli warplanes flying over neighboring Lebanon.

Israeli authorities did not comment on the airstrike on Homs. But the military said one of the Syrian air defense missiles exploded over Israeli territory without causing any damage. Israeli police said the rocket's remains landed in the southern Israeli city of Rahat.

In response to the rocket, Israeli jets struck the air defense battery from where the anti-aircraft rocket was launched. The military said it also struck other targets, without elaborating.

Israel, which has vowed to stop Iranian entrenchment next door, has carried out hundreds of strikes on targets in government-controlled parts of neighboring Syria in recent years, but it rarely acknowledges them.

The last suspected Israeli airstrike on Syria was on June 14, near the capital, Damascus, that left one soldier wounded.

Israel has also targeted the international airports in Damascus and the northern Syrian city of Aleppo several times over the past few years, often putting it out of commission.
A cascade of former Cambodian opposition politicians and activists have defected to the ruling Cambodian People's Party ahead of the July 23 election amid alleged government threats and frustration with Cambodia's political situation, putting pressure on the country's remaining opposition leaders.

In May, the government disqualified its main opposition Candlelight Party from participating in the election, hastening the departure of members. Even before that, though, defections had accelerated as Prime Minister Hun Sen cracked down on dissent with lawsuits, arrests and alleged beatings in recent months.

Candlelight spokesman Kimsour Phirith estimated that 10% to 15% of the embattled partys central leadership has defected. Cambodian Peoples Party spokesman Sok Eysan claimed hundreds, thousands of opposition supporters and officials had joined the party in the last year but did not provide evidence.

This is the strategy of the rival party in order to make our party become weak  to show the image that we are breaking, Phirith told VOA.

Among the defectors is Yim Sinorn, who spent a decade organizing Cambodian migrant workers in South Korea and worked closely with Cambodia National Rescue Party leader Kem Sokha, who was recently sentenced to 27 years of house arrest.

SEE ALSO: Two Cambodians Held on Rare Royal Insults Charge After Facebook Posts In March, Sinorn was arrested for posts on Facebook allegedly insulting King Norodom Sihamoni. While on bail, he posted a public apology on his wifes Facebook page and announced his allegiance to the ruling party, quickly receiving a high-level appointment at the Ministry of Labor.

Sinorn claimed his decision stemmed not from pressure related to his arrest but years of frustration with the now-dissolved Cambodia National Rescue Party and its successor, Candlelight.

Ive seen the weakness of leadership of the former opposition party that made me realize I cant continue the journey, Sinorn told VOA. I decided that I have to choose a new place to participate in serving the nation.

Everything I have done comes from my own will, he added. I think [my former work] was serving the benefit of society. Its not that everything I did with the opposition group was a useless thing.

Other defections have followed a similar trajectory. In June, Candlelight executive Sar Longdeth apologized and denounced the opposition after Prime Minister Hun Sen accused him of defamation over comments he made about the Southeast Asian Games. In May, 10 jailed opposition activists asked Hun Sens forgiveness in a video and joined the Cambodian Peoples Party, but told local media they were not threatened into doing so.

Yet those who remain with opposition say that the ruling partys coercion has been more brazen than ever this election season.

Chao Veasna, a popular former opposition leader in Banteay Meanchey province who was jailed in 2017 for allegedly inciting an anti-government protest, said he was approached by a senior government official in May who politely told him he was targeted for life and asked him to defect to the government, where he would receive a fine position.

It looks like they are doing it openly and without hiding as before, Veasna told VOA. Still, he refused the offer, saying he could not be forced into something he didnt believe in.

I am not worried about being killed  We need to have a strong spirit, he said.

Cambodian political analyst Em Sovannara, a political science professor in Phnom Penh, said that while defections happen during every five-year election cycle, the sheer volume since last years local elections demonstrates how difficult it has become to survive outside the grip of the ruling party.

Since January, Human Rights Watch has counted at least seven acts of violence against opposition members, including three beatings that involved metal rods.

Were seeing that the process of democracy in Cambodia is shrinking and moving in a way that doesnt give voters full freedom, Sovannara told VOA. It reflects the idea that democracy is only alive when people are supporting and in line with the ruling party. Constructive criticism seems to be disappearing.

Activist networks have also lost key members. In February, a member of environmental group Mother Nature denounced the group and formed a new organization  with the same name  under the governments Environment Ministry.

Phuon Keoraksmey, an activist who remains with the original group, said she did not believe the government version would garner support or trust.

We pity [them] and feel sorry that they are willing to leave freedom and go to live in a cage by supporting the government, she told VOA.

Others have remained under pressure even after publicly proclaiming support for the ruling party.

Theng Savoeun, president of the agricultural NGO Coalition of Cambodian Farmer Community, was arrested in May along with two colleagues and accused of fomenting a peasant revolution. Savoeun publicly apologized and confessed to his alleged crimes, but the Ministry of Interior ordered the organization to temporarily stop operating two weeks later.

Veasna, the opposition organizer who said he had been pressured to defect, said he did not want to be remembered as a traitor.
In the bitterly divided, highly partisan world of Washington, D.C., few institutions are more divided and more partisan than todays Supreme Court.

The court showcased that split again on May 25 when it significantly narrowed the federal governments authority to protect wetlands under the 51-year-old Clean Water Act in Sackett v. Environmental Protection Agency. The 5-4 decision was as groundbreaking as it will be water-polluting, say environmental advocates.

The facts of the case are clear: In 2007, an Idaho couple, the Sacketts, planned to build a home near a lake. As construction began, EPA ordered it halted because their lot contain(ed) wetlands protected by the CWA, which bars the discharge of pollutants, including rocks and sand, into navigable waters, explained the independent, peer-reviewed SCOTUSblog.

The Sacketts didnt file suit over the fact that a wetland was on their property; everyone agreed that there was. Instead, the fight ensued over whether the wetland drained into a navigable water as defined under the Clean Water Act.

EPA ruled it did; the Sacketts disagreed, noting that the wetland first drained into an unnavigable creek before it drained into the indisputably navigable lake. Despite court loss after court loss, the couple pursued the case until it rose, appeal after appeal, to the high court.

The court, unsurprisingly, accepted the case because previous Supreme Court rulings in Clean Water Act cases seemed to muddy the complicated law as property owners and the federal government wrestled with how far to extend its protections against polluting the navigable waters of the country, Roll Call recently explained.

Farm and ranch groups joined the Sacketts in the fight. After decades of tiptoeing through legal and legislative fights over what constitutes a navigable water, everyone  even environmental groups  wanted someone, be it Congress, the courts, or the White House, to arrive at a clear, workable clean water rule.

Previous attempts centered around WOTUS, or the broadly interpreted, EPA-empowering Waters of the United States rule.

To most farmers, WOTUS was a I-cant-tell-you-what-it-is-until-I-see-it EPA trap that had not kept up with agricultures rapid industrialization under the aging Clean Water Act. The courts agreed and, as such, WOTUS went through several updates and revisions under succeeding administrations.

The May 25 Sackett decision, however, ended that bitter, decadeslong fight by starting another bitter, probably decadeslong fight.

Justice Samuel Alito (he of recent Alaskan water fame) wrote that the Sacketts had been right from the get-go: In sum, we hold that the CWA extends to only those wetlands with a continuous surface connection to bodies that are waters of the United States in their own right ... .

In fact, Alito added, ... they are indistinguishable from those waters.

The decision, joined by Chief Justice John Roberts, Justice Clarence Thomas, Justice Amy Coney Barrett, and Justice Neil Gorsuch, significantly shrank the reach of the federal clean water protections, dealing a major blow to President Joe Bidens efforts to restore protections to millions of acres of wetlands and delivering a victory to multiple powerful industries, reported Politico.

Thats an understatement; most land developers, farmers, and ranchers were elated after the razor-thin decision was handed down.

Also understated are the rulings long-term consequences, notes DemocracyNow, a left-leaning news organization. The courts action ends protections for about half of all wetlands in the contiguous United States, jeopardizing access to safe drinking water for millions.

In a curious twist, the courts other four justices agreed that the Sacketts had been right from the start but strongly disagreed with their colleagues solution: knee-capping the Clean Water Act by appointing themselves as the national decision-maker on environmental policy. That was Congresss job and, in fact, it had done that job when it drafted the CWA.

Justice Brett Kavanaugh went further in his dissent. Writing for his three colleagues, Kavanaugh, a Trump appointee, noted that the courts new (WOTUS) test is sufficiently novel and vague and that it will create precisely the kind of regulatory uncertainty that the majority criticized.

In short, the split decision only further muddies the law and rural Americas increasingly dirty waters  navigable or unnavigable.
Baltimore officials say 30 people were shot overnight at a block party near the South Baltimore neighborhood of Brooklyn Homes.

Police say three people are in critical condition and two people have died.

Police say they received multiple calls about the shooting.

Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott told CNN that the shooting highlights the need to deal with access to guns not only in Baltimore, but across the country.

Acting Baltimore Police Commissioner Richard Worley described the crime scene as extensive. He said 20 of the victims were able to walk to the hospital.

Mayor Scott addressed the assailants, I want those who are responsible to hear me and hear me very clearly. We will not stop until we find you, and we will find you. Until then, I hope with every single breath that you take that you think about the lives that you took and you think about the lives that you impacted here tonight."
LA RUANA, MEXICO  One of the last leaders of Mexico's anti-gang citizens' movement was buried Saturday alongside two of his faithful followers, and any hope of reviving armed civilian resistance to drug cartels probably died with them.

"Self-defense" vigilante leader Hipolito Mora had long since ceased to pose an armed threat to the cartel that dominates western Mexico's Michoacan state, as was clear from the overwhelming, deadly, multipoint ambush in which he and three followers were slain Thursday.

While some angry relatives talked of reviving the 2013-14 armed farmers' movement that kicked out one cartel  only to see it replaced by others  many doubted that heroic, tragic chapter could ever be repeated.

"I think it's not a question of reviving the past," said the Rev. Gilberto Vergara, one of the priests who officiated the funeral Mass for Mora and his followers Calixto Alvarez and Roberto Naranjo. The third follower was buried elsewhere.

"The circumstances have changed, they're different, and we saw how everything ended," Vergara said.

Mora himself acknowledged that the 2013 movement, in which farmers and ranchers banded together to resist constant threats and extortion from the Knights Templar cartel, wound up infiltrated by members of other drug gangs.

The cartel now dominating the state, alternately called the Viagras or the United Cartels, "is worse than the ones who were here before," Mora's brother, Guadalupe Mora Chavez, said.

"If the government and (Michoacan Gov. Alfredo Ramirez) Bedolla don't do something, there are possibilities the people will rise up in arms again," the brother said.

But most at Mora's wake were too afraid of cartel retaliation even to have their names appear in print.

"He looked out for his town, for his people, and that is something none of us is going to do," his sister, Olivia Mora, said in a tearful address in front of his coffin.

"We all think first about our own families," she said. "None of us are going to have the courage to do what he did."

"I hope that something remains," another of Mora's weeping female relatives said. "I hope his voice hasn't been silenced."

Mora always spoke out against the cartels' extortion of local farmers and lime growers, even after his hundreds of followers had been reduced to a handful.

The female relative, who asked that her name not be used, said the extortion has grown so bad some growers are giving up their businesses, and locals sometimes are forced to pay double the price for basic goods.

The power of the drug cartels has only grown over the last decade. The Rev. Gregorio Lopez, a priest who was not present at the funeral, said President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador's policy of not confronting the cartels has allowed them to grow.

"The 'hugs not bullets' policy has been the perfect fertilizer for growing drug cartels across the country," he said.

The overwhelming power of the cartels was visible in the bullet holes in the walls where Mora and his bodyguards died. The Michoacan state prosecutors' office said unidentified gunmen cut off his SUV and his bodyguards' truck on a street in La Ruana, Mora's hometown, then riddled Mora's vehicle with bullets and set it on fire.

In a forensic inspection Friday, authorities marked out where bullets hit Mora's vehicle from three sides. Residents shared video of the attack that suggested cartel gunmen used a machine gun and a sniper rifle to destroy Mora's vehicle.

Residents of La Ruana, located in the torrid agricultural belt of western Michoacan state, did turn out by the hundreds Saturday for the funeral.

At the local cemetery, Mora and his two followers were laid to rest to the tune of the Joan Sebastian "corrido" ballad The General. The lyrics go: "I have been a general a long time, and even though I am wounded, I never forget about my troops, and they haven't buried me yet."

A knot of state police stood outside the cemetery, providing security that was never provided to Mora. Despite the big tearful farewell, it is becoming more difficult to even speak out against the cartels' domination, which is mainly what Mora did in his final years along with running his lime orchard.

The cartels seem intent on squelching even non-violent resistance.

"The narcos and the drug cartels are always going to try to get rid of anything that gets in their way," said Vergara, the priest.

The time for armed self-defense movements is past, he said.

"Guns don't help us, civilians shouldn't carry guns," Vergara said. "I think it is up to the government to do their duty."

That appears unlikely, given the government's current policy of tolerating the homegrown Viagras cartel, while fighting off an offensive by the Jalisco cartel to enter the state.

"They have to fight all the cartels," said Guadalupe Mora.
Militants attacked a security post in Pakistans southwestern Baluchistan province, triggering a shootout that left three police officers a paramilitary soldier and one militant dead Sunday, officials said.

Local police chief, Abdul Salam Baloch said while one of the militants was killed, the others managed to escape to the mountainous terrain in the Shirani district, bordering North Waziristan where they have multiple hideouts.

Baloch said the attackers used hand grenades, rocket-propelled grenades and assault rifles on the joint security post of police and paramilitary forces.

Bilal Shabbir, a top administrative officer in Shirani district, said two militants and one paramilitary trooper were wounded in the shootout that lasted for about two hours. He said the attackers managed to escape with their wounded accomplices. He added that security forces launched a search operation in the area and surrounding mountains to trace and eliminate the perpetrators.

Head of the provincial government, Abdul Quddoos Bizenjo, condemned the attack and expressed grief over the loss of the four security men.

No one immediately claimed responsibility for the attack but militants from the banned Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan, known as the Pakistani Taliban or TTP, operate in the area and have been involved in past attacks on security forces in recent months.

TTP is a separate group but allied with the Afghan Taliban, who seized power in the neighboring country in August 2021 as U.S. and NATO troops were in the final stages of their pullout. The Taliban takeover of Afghanistan has emboldened the Pakistani Taliban, which has stepped up attacks on police and troops in recent months after unitarily ending a cease-fire with the government.

Pakistans military has carried out major operations in recent years in the tribal belt along the Afghan border, which has served as a haven for local and foreign militants for decades. However, militants still carry out attacks in the region.
Poland said on Sunday it will send 500 police to shore up security at its border with Belarus to cope with rising numbers of migrants crossing as well as any potential threats after the Wagner group of mercenaries relocates to Belarus.

"Due to the tense situation on the border with Belarus I have decided to bolster our forces with 500 Polish police officers from preventive and counter-terrorism units," Minister of Interior Mariusz Kaminski wrote on his Twitter account.

The police force would join 5,000 border guards and 2,000 soldiers in securing the border, he said.

Poland has accused Belarus of artificially creating a migrant crisis on the border since 2021 by flying in people from the Middle East and Africa and attempting to push them across the frontier.

The Polish Border Guard said on Sunday that 187 people tried to cross into Poland from Belarus illegally on Saturday, and numbers have been growing steadily in recent months, although they are well below levels seen in 2021.

A spokeswoman for Poland's Border Guard said that Polish patrols at the border have also faced more aggressive behavior in the past two months as the number of migrants rose.

"The groups are more aggressive. There have been many attacks on Polish patrols. Seventeen vehicles have been damaged this year, of which 13 in June alone," Border Guard spokeswoman Anna Michalska said.

Deputy Minister Coordinator of Special Services Stanislaw Zaryn told Reuters the bigger security presence was also in response to the transfer of Wagner group mercenaries to Belarus. SEE ALSO: Satellite Photos, Reports Suggest Belarus Building Army Camp for Wagner Fighters

Russian President Vladimir Putin's decision to offer troops from the private military company the choice of relocating to Belarus has led to fears among eastern NATO members that their presence will cause greater instability in the region.

"It is still a matter of analysis and hypotheses whether the Wagner group will engage in destabilizing Poland and will also be active in coordinating the migration route," Zaryn told Reuters by phone.
Researchers say they are detecting a dramatic spike in ocean surface temperatures around the world  reaching as much as 5 degrees Celsius (9 degrees Fahrenheit) above normal in the North Atlantic  and they could rise even higher.

It is very alarming, and as temperatures keep spiking, this is not unexpected, said Kim Cobb, a climate scientist and professor of earth, environmental and planetary sciences at Brown University in Rhode Island.

As the oceans get warmer each year, scientists say they are triggering chaotic weather patterns around the world, including torrential downpours and intense heat waves that cause flooding and severe drought.

Climate scientists attribute much of the warming to so-called greenhouse gases and say that to prevent the most severe consequences, the use of fossil fuels must be cut in half by 2030.

The most recent increase has caused the most extreme ocean heat wave in the British Isles in 170 years, according to the Met Office, the United Kingdoms national weather service.

This is an off-the-charts heat wave in the oceans, said John Abraham, a climate change scientist at the University of St. Thomas in Minnesota. The temperatures we are seeing this year are a remarkable excursion from normal temperatures.

Oceans, which cover 70% of the Earth, have a huge impact on weather.

When the air blows over the oceans, the air warms up and gets more humid and that drives storms, Abraham told VOA.

The water vapor amplifies warming by trapping outgoing radiation from escaping and that feeds the storms, noted Kevin Trenberth, a global warming expert and a scholar at the National Center for Atmospheric Research. So, there is a huge magnifying effect.

A study in the journal Earth System Science Data published in April warns that oceans are heating-up more rapidly than previously thought, creating a greater risk for extreme weather, rising sea levels, and the loss of marine ecosystems.

Even a small increase in ocean temperature can have other profound effects, which include coral bleaching and more intense hurricanes.

There is also the loss of ice, the disintegration of the Antarctic and Greenland ice sheets that are contributing to sea level rise earlier than we expected it to, said Michael Mann, professor of environmental science at Pennsylvania State University.

There are many places in the world that will be warmer than usual this year, Abraham said.

In South America, we expect both coasts to be warmer than average and the Caribbean and Central American regions to be both warm and dry. In large parts of Southeast Asia, we should expect drier conditions in the upcoming months.

Adding to the already crucial situation, an El Nino has formed that is likely to bring extreme weather patterns later this year. An El Nino refers to a warming of the ocean surface in the central and eastern Pacific Ocean. Scientists say the phenomenon is not caused by global warming but may be exacerbated by it.

It causes unprecedented but strong dry spells in many places, and droughts that may promote wildfires, such as those were seeing in Canada, and torrential rains in other places in the world, said Trenberth.

The temperatures will spike higher every time there is an El Nino, said Abraham. What were seeing now is a foretelling of our future unless we reduce our greenhouse emissions.

In a warmer world, were in for a very bumpy ride that includes extreme rainfall, mudslides, wildfires, drought and failed crop yields, said Cobb of Brown University.

Mann said greenhouse gases need to be significantly reduced soon or the environmental consequences will become even worse.

We need governments to provide incentives to move the energy and transportation industries away from fossil fuels and towards renewable energy, he said.
Rioting in France to protest the police shooting death of an Arab teenager, diminished Saturday night following the youths funeral earlier in the day.

The government deployed about 45,000 police onto the streets to try to control unrest after the funeral of Nahel, a 17-year-old with Algerian and Moroccan parents, who was shot during a traffic stop Tuesday in the Paris suburb of Nanterre.

"Forty-five thousand police officers and thousands of firefighters have been mobilized to enforce order. Their action ... made for a quieter night," the ministry said on Twitter.

The biggest flashpoint overnight was in Marseille, where police fired tear gas and fought street battles with youths around the city center late into the night.

In Paris, security forces lined the city's famous Champs Elysees Avenue after a call on social media to gather there. Shop facades were boarded up to prevent potential damage.

On Sunday morning, Vincent Jeanbrun, the mayor of LHay-les-Roses, in suburban Paris, said his wife and one of his children were injured when they tried to flee their home after protesters rammed a car into his house and set the vehicle on fire. The mayor was not home at the time of the incident. An officer has acknowledged firing the lethal shot that killed Nahel, a prosecutor says, telling investigators he wanted to prevent a police chase, fearing he or another person would be hurt. The officer involved is under investigation for voluntary homicide. The officer has extended an apology to the victims family. Nahels mother told France 5 television when the police officer saw a little Arab-looking kid; he wanted to take his life.

SEE ALSO: Unrest Erupts in France Again in Response to Police Shooting of Teen Rights groups and people living within the low-income, racially mixed suburbs that ring major cities in France have long complained about police violence and systemic racism inside law enforcement agencies.

The United Nations human rights office said the unrest was a chance for France "to address deep issues of racism in law enforcement."

Its just this deeply entrenched, really colonial mindset, Crystal Fleming, a professor of sociology and Africana studies at New Yorks Stony Brook University, told France 24 television, that prevents French authorities from admitting that racism ... is rooted in Frances history of colonization.

French President Emmanuel Macron has been steadfast in his denial that systemic racism exists in France.

Macron postponed a planned state visit to Germany that was due to have begun Sunday. Instead, he planned to meet with his ministers Sunday evening to review the volatile situation.
KYIV, UKRAINE - Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy warned Saturday that a "serious threat" remained at the Russian-occupied Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant and that Russia was "technically ready" to provoke a localized explosion at the facility.

Zelenskyy cited Ukrainian intelligence as the source of his information.

"There is a serious threat because Russia is technically ready to provoke a local explosion at the station, which could lead to a (radiation) release," Zelenskyy told a news conference alongside visiting Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez.

He gave no further details. Ukrainian military intelligence has previously said Russian troops had mined the plant.

Zelenskyy called for greater international attention to the Zaporizhzhia plant, Europe's largest civil nuclear facility. He also urged sanctions on Russia's state nuclear company Rosatom.

Zelenskyy met with the top military command and nuclear power officials at another of Ukraine's five nuclear plants, in Rivne, in the northwest of the country.

"The key issues discussed were the security of our northern regions and our measures to strengthen them," Zelenskyy said in his nightly video address, standing in front of the Rivne plant.

Zelenskyy's trip to Rivne was a rare journey for the Ukraine leader to an area relatively far from the fighting. But it is near the border with Belarus, where Russia's Wagner mercenaries have a deal to go after last week's aborted uprising. Their leader, Yevgeny Prigozhin, was offered the option of resettling in Belarus, on Ukraine's northern border.

Energoatom, Ukraine's nuclear power authority, said Friday it had conducted two days of exercises simulating the effects of an attack on the Zaporizhzhia plant.

Russia's U.N. ambassador, Vassily Nebenzia, issued a statement describing the Ukrainian allegations as "simply preposterous." Russia has dismissed any suggestion it plans to attack or sabotage the Zaporizhzhia plant. Each side accuses the other of shelling near the facility.

Sanchez said his visit to the Ukrainian capital was meant to underscore his support for Ukraine as Spain takes up the six-month rotating EU presidency. Spain would provide an additional $60 million financial package for Ukraine to help the economy and small businesses, he said.

The Zaporizhzhia plant, near the city of Enerhodar in southern Ukraine, has been occupied by Russia since shortly after Moscow's invasion in February 2022.

Ukraine, then part of the Soviet Union, suffered the world's worst nuclear accident in 1986, when clouds of radioactive material spread across much of Europe after an explosion and fire at the Chernobyl nuclear power plant.
Clashes between Sudan's army and paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) intensified on Sunday, as the war in the country's capital and western regions entered its 12th week with no attempts in sight to bring a peaceful end to the conflict.

Air and artillery strikes as well as small arms fire could be heard, particularly in the city of Omdurman, as well as in the capital Khartoum, as the conflict deepens a humanitarian crisis and threatens to draw in other regional interests.

The RSF said it brought down an army warplane and a drone in Bahri, in statements to which the army did not immediately respond.

"We're terrified, every day the strikes are getting worse," 25-year-old Nahid Salah, living in northern Omdurman, said by phone to Reuters.

The RSF has dominated the capital on the ground and has been accused of looting and occupying houses, while the army has focused on air and artillery strikes.

SEE ALSO: Sudan: No End in Sight After Nearly 50 Days of Fighting Army chief Abdel Fattah al-Burhan last week called on young men to join the fight against the RSF and on Sunday the army posted photos it said were of new recruits.

The Sudanese Doctors Union accused the RSF on Saturday of raiding the Shuhada hospital, one of the few still operating in the country, and killing a staff member. The RSF denied the accusation.

The war has also hit cities in the western Kordofan and Darfur regions, in particular the westernmost city of El Geneina, where the RSF and Arab militias have been accused of ethnic cleansing.

The Combating Violence Against Women Unit, a government agency, said on Saturday it had recorded 88 cases of sexual assault, which it said was a fraction of the likely real total, in Khartoum, El Geneina, and Nyala, capital of South Darfur, with victims in most cases accusing the RSF.

Talks hosted in Jeddah and sponsored by the United States and Saudi Arabia were suspended last month, while a mediation attempt by East African countries was criticized by the army as it accused Kenya of bias.
KYIV, UKRAINE  Latest developments:

After a break of almost two weeks, Russia launched a drone attack Sunday on Kyiv, Reuters reports. There have been no reports of casualties or damage.

The United States is confident Ukraines counteroffensive against Russia is making progress despite the lack of any significant break in the Russian lines. Joint Chiefs of Staff Chairman General Mark Milley told an audience in Washington Friday the slow pace of Ukraines advance is part of the nature of war.

Milley also said the U.S. is openly considering providing Ukraine with cluster-munitions, long-range Army Tactical Missile System (ATACMS) missiles and even some of its own F-16 fighter jets. "These things are on the table, he said. There's no decision at this point.

The U.N. expressed concern Friday that no new ships have been registered since June 26 under a deal allowing the safe Black Sea export of grain from Ukraine. "We call on the parties to commit to the continuation and effective implementation of the agreement without further delay," U.N. spokesperson Farhan Haq told reporters.

Russian President Vladimir Putin spoke by phone with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday. Moscow said Modi expressed support for what the Kremlin called the Russian leadership's decisive actions in handling the mutiny by the Wagner mercenary group last Saturday. The call comes after the U.S. and India declared themselves "among the closest partners in the world" last week during a state visit to Washington by Modi. India has yet to condemn ally Russia for the invasion of Ukraine.

Russian forces hit a school in Serhiivka, Donetsk oblast, on Friday, killing two members of staff and injuring six others, the regional prosecutor's office reported.

Ukraine has published a package of sanctions against 300 legal entities and almost 200 individuals, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Saturday in his daily address. The president said the sanctions against individuals are not only Russian citizens, but anyone in the world who helps the aggressor.

Ukrainian officials reported more civilian casualties from Russian shelling in the countrys east and south Saturday, as Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez began a visit to Kyiv as a show of continuing support from Madrid and the European Union for Ukraines fight to dislodge invading Russian forces.

In an address to Ukraine's parliament that received several standing ovations, Sanchez said, Well be with you as long as it takes.

I am here to express the firm determination of the European [Union] and Europe against the illegal and unjustified Russian aggression to Ukraine, he said on the day that Spain took over the six-month rotating presidency of the 27-nation EU.

At a later news conference with Zelenskyy, Sanchez announced Spain would deliver more heavy weaponry to Ukraine including four Leopard tanks and armored personnel carriers, as well as a portable field hospital. He also said Spain will provide an additional 55 million euros to help with reconstruction needs.

Elsewhere in Ukraine, regional officials reported that at least three civilians were killed and 17 wounded by Russian shelling Friday and overnight in the front-line eastern Donetsk region, where fierce battles are raging, Donetsk Gov. Pavlo Kyrylenko said.

The Ukrainian General Staff reported that fierce clashes continued in three areas in Donetsk where it said Russia has massed troops and attempted to advance. It named the outskirts of three cities  Bakhmut, Lyman and Marinka  as front-line hot spots.

Five people including a child were wounded Friday and overnight in the Kherson region in the south, regional Gov. Oleksandr Prokudin said. Prokudin said that Russian forces launched 82 artillery, drone, mortar shell and rocket attacks on the province, which is cut in two by a stretch of the 1,500-kilometer front line and still reeling from flooding unleashed by the collapse earlier this month of a major Dnipro River dam.

In the northeastern Kharkiv region, Russian shelling over the previous day wounded a 57-year-old civilian man, said Gov. Oleh Syniehubov. In the Sumy region farther west, a teenage boy was hurt in a strike from across the Russian border, the local military administration reported.

Referring to possible peace talks, Sanchez said that only Ukraine can set the terms and times for peace negotiations. Other countries and regions are proposing peace plans. Their involvement is much appreciated, but, at the same time, we cant accept them entirely.

This is a war of aggression, with an aggressor and a victim. They cannot be treated equally and ignoring the rules should in no way be rewarded. That is why that is why we support President Zelenskyys peace formula, Sanchez added.

Zelenskyy at the news conference expressed frustration about the lack of clarity over Western training for Ukrainian fighter pilots. He said Western allies have not yet set a timetable to train pilots on U.S.-made F-16s despite their expressions of readiness. "I think that some partners are delaying this process, why they do this I have no idea, he said.

He also renewed Ukraine's claim that Russia is prepared to cause a potential nuclear catastrophe at the Moscow-held Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant as Ukraine continues to make steady advances along the front line.

Russia is technically ready to provoke a local explosion at the station that could cause an emission of dangerous substances in the air. We are clearly communicating, we discussed the need with our partners, so everyone understands why Russia is doing this, he said.

The introduction of F-16s to the war could give Ukraine a much needed edge over Russia, which currently enjoys air superiority.
Protesters for and against affirmative action argue outside the U.S. Supreme Court in Washington on June 29, 2023. (Kenny Holston/The New York Times)

Reading about the Supreme Courts unsurprising affirmative action ruling, I was reminded of Sen. Hubert Humphreys defense of the landmark 1964 Civil Rights Act.

If anyone can find language in the bill, said the Minnesota Democrat, that would require an employer to hire based on percentage or quota related to color, race, religion or national origin, I will eat my hat.

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The bill passed and, fortunately for Humphrey, he never had to eat his hat, despite a half century of arguments over how precise racial or ethnic goals or timetables have to be before they constitute a quota.

A similar decadeslong saga has unfolded over affirmative action to promote diversity at universities that accept federal funding, which the Supreme Court all but banned at colleges Thursday.

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Having followed affirmative action debates for decades, I was surprised only by how unsurprised I was by the ruling.

I remembered Justice Sandra Day OConnors unusual prediction in the 2003 opinion she wrote for the 5-4 majority that decided race-conscious admissions did not unduly harm non-minority applicants at the University of Michigan Law School.

Near the end of the opinion, she included a prediction that now sounds prophetic:

We expect that 25 years from now, the use of racial preferences will no longer be necessary to further the interest approved today.

That expectation proved to be correct with the high courts ruling in lawsuits by Students for Fair Admissions against Harvard University and the University of North Carolina.

Attention to this case has been growing for years along with evidence that racial considerations have worked against Asian Americans. Theyre more likely than other groups to enroll in selective colleges and universities, yet also more likely to be rejected by what amount to de facto quotas.

So, as disappointed as some longtime supporters of affirmative action  like me  may be, I also cant deny that, when a remedy to historical discrimination against minorities produces new unfairness to other minority groups, the remedy needs to be seriously reconsidered.

I have little doubt that universities will continue their efforts to diversify their student bodies with properly qualified students, as they should.

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And, as much as Chief Justice John Roberts sharply criticized the purpose of race-conscious admissions policies that the court had supported in prior cases, he also hinted at approaches that could offer similar diversity benefits without the apparent harm.

Roberts court did not rule out considering students backgrounds and circumstances in what admissions officers call holistic reviews that look more completely at their profiles  beyond race or ethnicity.

This approach would give more weight to the applicants essay. Mentioning your race is no longer enough, for example, but admissions officers can still give credit to applicants who have overcome challenges that happen to be related to their race or other qualities that would bring unique experiences to the campus.

Admissions essays, like recommendations and other material, can help to construct a more holistic portrait than race or ethnicity alone to paint a compelling portrait of individual applicants.

Over the years I have become convinced that most students and adults tend to be much less favorable to offering opportunities based on race or ethnicity than on economic class.

Find a kid who has overcome social and economic obstacles in pursuit of success and, regardless of their race, you have someone who is closer to what most folks view as the American ideal of a fair chance to succeed.

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Since applicants who have low income or no family wealth also are more likely to be racial or ethnic minorities, universities can achieve more of their diversity goals through the holistic approach that tries to be fair to everyone.

The way to stop discrimination on the basis of race, Justice Roberts has famously declared, is to stop discriminating on the basis of race.

But, as an alternative, Roberts appears to have little trouble with more holistic alternatives to race. I can hear the groans already coming from those who think race questions are complicated enough without wrestling with even more standards.

Theyd rather deal with people as individuals. So would I. But, the best way to appreciate individuals is to appreciate all the aspects of themselves that make them special.

Im not going to wager my hat like Sen. Humphrey did, but the holistic approach just might work better.

cpage@chicagotribune.com

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Twitter @cptime
TELESCOPE: SpaceX launched the European Space Agency's Euclid observatory Saturday toward its ultimate destination 1 million miles away, the Webb Space Telescope's neighborhood. It will take a month to get there and another two months before it starts its ambitious six year survey this fall.

AIRPORT SHOOTING: A Tajikistan national who shot and killed two security officers at Moldova's main international airport is wanted in his native country in relation to the kidnapping of a Tajik bank official, authorities said Saturday. The General Prosecutor's Office of Tajikistan alleged Rustam Ashurov was a member of an "organized criminal group."

PROTEST: The London Pride march briefly came to a halt Saturday as climate activists blocked a Coca-Cola float to protest event organizers accepting sponsorship money from "high-polluting industries." Seven members of the group Just Stop Oil were arrested.

SWEDEN: President Joe Biden will host Sweden's prime minister at the White House on Wednesday in a show of solidarity as the United States presses for the Nordic nation's entry into NATO, a bid stalled by objections from two members of the Western military alliance.

KENYA: A truck rammed into several other vehicles and market traders Friday evening in western Kenya, killing at least 51 people, police said. More people were believed to be trapped in the wreckage, an official said. The Kenya Red Cross Society said Saturday 32 people were injured.

MILITANTS KILLED: Pakistan's military said security forces raided two militant hideouts Friday in regions near the border with Afghanistan, triggering intense shootouts that left six insurgents dead during the Eid holidays. Security forces also seized weapons and ammunition, the military said late Friday.
Photo: Leon Bennett/Getty Images

In 2016, Miranda Sings was borderline inescapable. A character created by Colleen Ballinger in 2008, Miranda Sings is a parody of a teenage girl with an annoying (on purpose) personality, bad red lipstick, and a smug, crooked smile. It was simple enough for Ballinger, then a 21-year-old student at Azusa Pacific, a private Christian university, to transform into Miranda Sings. All she needed was a crumpled blue button shirt, red sweatpants hiked to her waist, and a signature, yet unplaceable, accent. And not liking Miranda Sings was always part of the brand. But now, former fans of the YouTuber and 36-year-old mother of three are more than annoyed. In the midst of her national tour as Miranda Sings, Ballinger is facing multiple accusations of inappropriate relationships with minors and bullying. One of her tour stops has been canceled due to unforeseen circumstances, and more past racially insensitive material is coming to light.

Early in her career, Ballinger, who majored in vocal performance, said that she created her Miranda Sings character to mock other videos she saw of actual teenagers singing in their rooms in hopes of being discovered on YouTube. They were terrible, she said in a 2011 interview with Seth Rudetsky for his Playbill YouTube show, Obsessed. But they were so cocky. On their YouTube pages, in their profiles, theyd be like Im doing this to become famous.

Now that Ballinger herself is famous with almost 9 million followers on her personal YouTube channel and close to 11 million on her Miranda Sings channel  although her popularity has largely waned  shes maintained a legacy, both as herself and her most popular character, by regularly posting YouTube, TikTok, and a new podcast co-hosted with another controversial internet figure, Trisha Paytas (who has since said she is embarrassed to be associated with Ballinger).

Accusations of inappropriate behavior by Ballinger date back to an April 28, 2020, video by Adam McIntyre, an ex-fan and YouTuber. McIntyre has claimed that Ballinger interacted inappropriately with him when he was a minor, a claim that Ballinger addressed in an apology video. However, more allegations have since surfaced, which she responded to on June 28, 2023 in the form of a 10 minute ukulele song (yes, thats real). Heres a breakdown of everything we know so far about the controversy around Ballinger.

What were the first allegations against Colleen Ballinger?

On April 28, 2020, a 20-year-old YouTuber from Derry, Ireland, named Adam McIntyre uploaded a video titled colleen ballinger, stop lying to address recent drama he had with Ballinger. McIntyre started running a fan account for Miranda Sings in 2013, when he was just 10 years old, and had since developed an online friendship with Ballinger. In the video, he says just a month prior, on March 26, 2020, he was given control of the official Miranda Sings Twitter account to post preapproved original content. I have a present for you today. Ive never done this with anyone but Im trusting you, McIntyre claimed Ballinger messaged him on Instagram on March 26, 2020. Right now Im considering you my social media intern. After he posted a satirical tweet he posted on the Miranda Sings account about her coming out as a Meghan Trainor fan received backlash, Ballinger issued an apology and deleted the post, as well as everything else McIntyre had posted. As a result, McIntyre claims Ballinger ignored him, bad-mouthed him, and caused him to lose the community of friends he had made through running his fan account and the Miranda Sings account. In the video, he holds up lingerie that he says Ballinger sent to him, which his mother took from him cause she was so shocked. (McIntyre will come up again soon, as hell release 12 more videos describing Ballingers behavior and their interactions.)

Did Colleen Ballinger respond to the initial allegations against her?





Around the same time McIntyre shared his story about the lingerie, Ballinger answered for other bad behavior, including a racist video she made mocking Latinas, a fatphobic comment she made about a woman on an airplane, and a video where she talks about abusing her childhood dog. She apologized for all of these videos in a video titled addressing everything, released May 12, 2020. She also seemed to address McIntyres claim that she sent him lingerie: No, I should have never sent a fan underwear, how stupid am I? No, I definitely should have never given him access to my Twitter account, and no, I shouldnt have talked to him as often as I did, she said. But, I am not a monster and I am not a groomer. She said that McIntyre wanted to move on, and so did she. So, Ballinger kept making videos, both as Miranda and as a family-channel vlogger, while McIntyre began making videos for his own channel, which now has 232,000 subscribers. The matter was scarcely discussed after 2020, until Kodee Tyler Dahl brought the conversation to 2023.

Why have allegations against Ballinger resurfaced?

On June 4, 2023, Kodee Tyler Dahl posted a now-deleted video titled why I left the colleen ballinger fandom  In the video, Dahl says Ballinger reached out to them in 2020 after McIntyre posted his video. Dahl, 33, claimed they were planning on making a video on their own drama channel, KodeeRants, siding with McIntyre, until Ballinger reached out. I wanted to reach out to you privately and in confidence and let you know why Im staying silent, Dahl claims Ballinger wrote in a private message on Twitter. In the video, Dahl says Ballingers message made them feel important, saying I was going to be her knight in shining armor. Dahl started to become less entrenched in the fandom when they learned about previous jokes Ballinger had made regarding race, weight, and sexual assault. But the bulk of the new allegations come from a group message on Twitter called colleenys weenies group chat.

Wait, what is colleenys weenies group chat?





Colleenys weenies was a group chat on Twitter reserved for Ballingers inner circle of fans  what members have said were mostly minors, at the time  to vent, talk about the fandom, and send memes with Ballinger herself. In one message to the group, McIntyre, who was around 15 at the time, asked the group for questions to be used in a YouTube Q&A. Dahls alleged screenshot appears to show that Ballinger, who was in her early 30s, responded Are you a Virgin? and also asked McIntyre what his favorite sex position was. In another alleged screenshot, Adam tells the chat his ass looks good today and Ballinger appears to respond pics adam. Ballinger has yet to comment on these screenshots. In Ballingers 2023 response, she did not directly comment on the screenshots. Dahl also agreed with McIntyres claims that Ballinger would trauma dump on the group of tweens she called friends, especially when she was getting her divorce from Joshua David Evans.

In his June 7, 2023, video, McIntyre says Ballinger would promise special things, including a trip to the National Wax Museum, in exchange for his loyalty. The 15-year-old and 31-year-old had planned to spend the day together in Dublin before her June 8, 2018, show. However, in the video, McIntyre says that when the day came, she was being unkind and flaky to the point that even his parents were apprehensive about them meeting. He says they ended up meeting for only five minutes. He still cites this as an example of emotional whiplash that he said had become all too common in their dynamic. Ballinger has yet to directly respond to these claims and did not respond when asked for comment.

Though people have been doxxing him and sending death threats, to the point where he claims to have filed a police report, McIntyre said he isnt backing down. Since Dahls video was posted, McIntyre has made 12 YouTube videos on the controversy. In a recent video, he claims Ballinger grooms her fans emotionally.

On June 4, 2023, Dahls why I left the colleen ballinger fandom  video had less than 1,000 views, but still ignited conversation about Ballingers behavior. Ballinger did not respond to the accusations in the video.

So, Colleen Ballinger has been accused of her own inappropriate behavior, but what is happening with Miranda Sings?

On June 13, 2023, a former Miranda Sings fan with the TikTok username @noitsbecks described an experience she had at a 2019 Miranda Sings show where she said she was left feeling humiliated onstage. It was well known that Ballinger would bring up audience members for various segments of the show, usually seeking out a specific type of person to fulfill different roles in her show. She scouted girls wearing short dresses, crop tops, or anything Miranda would consider racy, so she could make jokes about it during the show. So, Becky chose to dress for the Miranda gaze and wore a romper. I was kind of trying to dress skimpy, so that I would be called up onstage, Becky said in a TikTok video posted on June 13, 2023. She also tweeted about the incident. Instead of being chosen for the porn bit, she was chosen for the yoga bit.

Pause. What is a porn bit and what is a yoga bit?

These names of the portion of the show are extreme to elicit a reaction from the audience, but its still a bit weird. Both the porn bit and yoga bit required audience volunteers. For the porn bit, it was usually a young girl wearing something that showed skin. So think spaghetti straps, skirts, crop tops  basically anything that would get you dress-coded in a strict public school. She would also bring up a fan in red sweatpants and full coverage top  the Miranda Sings uniform  to compare the two outfits. The girl showing even the slightest bit of skin was porn and the Miranda Sings clone was not. For the yoga bit, Miranda and an audience volunteer copied bizarre-looking, difficult yoga-inspired poses. At the show Becky attended, she was chosen to come on stage for the yoga bit, and she said the experience left her feeling unsafe in front of a large audience of people. Becky is not the only former fan who has come forward to talk about their uncomfortable Miranda Sings tour experiences as minors.

ive been debating posting this picture, but this was me on stage. she encouraged her fans to wear revealing clothing so we would get called on stage. and then she exploited us and our bodies for her own gain. so yeah, im okay with calling her a predator. https://t.co/uQRHsi9zD7 pic.twitter.com/8CWZtoN8cw  becky (@noitsbecks) June 10, 2023

Similar to Becky, a person named Grace posted a video to TikTok about seeing the Miranda Sings tour when she was 14. In the video, the 14-year-old has on a black skirt, white shirt, and green jacket and a 31-year-old Ballinger, as Miranda, declares that all it takes is a little breeze and Ill see all the bits. Another portion of the show had Miranda going on dates with audience members during a search for a bae segment. A portion of this segment she would repeat was putting a bag of cheese balls in the front of her pants, and inviting the audience member to reach in and grab a handful of cheese balls. One infamous clip of a young boy named James participating in this bit during a 2016 London show has resurfaced, amongst other photos and videos of similar occurrences in multiple cities and over the span of a couple years. Ballinger has not directly responded to the allegations by Becky, Grace, or anyone else alleging inappropriate behavior during any Miranda Sings tour show.

colleen ballinger pretending to be on a date with a 9 year old and telling him to reach into her pants for a snack.making child incredibly uncomfortable towards the end as everyone laughs at him.



WTF WTF WTF

@theadammcintyre @noitsbecks pic.twitter.com/cA9yguVq8e  vinny (@lomlgraperry) June 7, 2023

What are Kory DeSoto and Trent Ballinger accused of?

An 18-year-old former fan named Oliver claims they had inappropriate interactions with Colleens brother Trent Ballinger, mostly over Twitter direct message and later via text. Oliver claims they were 13 to 14 at the time, while Trent was in his 30s. Oliver said the conversations centered around their sexuality.

DeSoto and Ballinger met as freshmen at Azusa Pacific University. He eventually ended up working for Ballinger, and even lived with her for a time. He was widely known in the fandom, and even has his own online presence and fanbase. Some of his fans created a group chat, named korys klit. Members of the group, mostly minors, claim that DeSoto did not name the group chat, but he was an active participant in it. Some members of the group chat claim he was modeling similar strange and inappropriate behavior to Ballinger  trauma dumping, bullying, taunting fans, complaining about Ballinger, and talking about sex, drugs, and alcohol. One leaked message also appears to show that DeSoto would threaten to block people if they shared info about the group chat. A Reddit group, r/ColleenBallingerSnark claims DeSoto started scrubbing various social-media accounts once allegations about himself and Ballinger started to spread on social media. Controversy struck. One post claimed that he had deleted 80 videos and listed 75 of the titles of those videos, which included SEXY WALL TWERKING and Sex Advice: Cosmo Corner. DeSoto deleted his Twitter around June 11, 2023.

Another former fan and employee of Ballingers, Johnny, came out with a video with similar allegations of bullying and being paid and treated poorly during his time on tour with Ballinger, Evans, and DeSoto. In this, he claims that DeSoto was a bully. Evans issued a public apology to Johnny. Ballingers response did not specifically respond to Johnnys claims and DeSoto has yet to respond entirely.

Has Colleen Ballinger/ Miranda Sings released an apology?

Ballinger posted a ten-minute video, titled hi, on June 28, 2023, where she denied the allegations in song while accompanying herself on the ukulele. After looking dejected for ten seconds, she launches into a speak-sung monologue, in which she condemns the internet for boarding the toxic gossip train, chugging down the tracks of misinformation. In this video, she declares that her team advised her to not speak on the allegations against her, but said nothing about singing. This video has a decidedly different tone than her 2020 response. Yes, she admits to messaging fans, but says it was in a loser way because, as she put it, the only thing Ive ever groomed is my two Persian cats. She claims to have made jokes in poor taste and bad decisions, but sings that her intentions were not malicious, despite what millions of people have decided. I know that you wanted me to say that I was 100 percent in the wrong / Well, Im sorry Im not going to take that route of admitting to lies and rumors that you made up for clout, she sings. She also states that Miranda Sings is PG-13-rated content and blames parents for bringing their kids to her shows as it is not her responsibility to cater to a younger audience: Thats why you wont find my videos on the YouTube Kids app. The message of the video is best described with one of Ballingers lyrical denials: Im not a groomer / Im just a loser. Multiple times in the video, including a long chorus near the end in which she rhymes human with human, she states that she is not a horrible human, but a human who made a mistake and doesnt deserve hate. The video/song ends with Ballinger resigning both the chorus and herself: Well, what do I know? Fuck me, right? Vulture reached out to Ballinger for comment.

Previous to the video, her podcast with Trisha Paytas has lost sponsorship from OneSkin and ZocDoc, according to TMZ. We were made aware of this previously and have decided to cease the relationship completely. This behavior is appalling and we do not condone or support it in any form, OneSkin said in a statement to TMZ. As of publishing, she has lost 30,000 followers since June 15. Ballingers June 28 video on her vlog channel has been her only response, besides an impromptu speech at a recent tour stop, where she claimed there were so many things to say, but decided to not say those things. One person reportedly booed at the end of the show, and one twitter user claims they spent $3 on a ticket and attended just to support McIntyre.

Ballingers August 10 tour stop in St. Louis, Missouri, was canceled on July 5 due to unforeseen circumstances, per the venue. Currently, Ballinger has six other shows set before August 10. Vulture reached out to the concert promoter for additional comment.

Have there been any further accusations?

Yes. Ballinger has been accused of body shaming Trisha Paytas and texting unsolicited nudes of Paytas to at least two former fans  including Adam McIntyre, who confirmed in a July 4 video that he was 14 years old at the time. In a 21-minute video titled colleen, Paytas addressed Ballingers alleged messages, calling them disgusting and illegal. Referencing a fans description, she claimed Ballinger held viewing parties of my adult content to make fun of me. According to Paytas, Ballinger vehemently denied ever sending any photos of Paytas, instead claiming that an underage fan sent the photos and everything was being taken out of context. Paytas said she is embarrassed to be associated with Ballinger. She further noted that her sexual content is paywalled to people over age 18 and criticized the negative impact that Ballingers alleged actions could have on perceptions of sex workers. I will never speak on Colleen again, Paytas concluded. She just does not exist to me anymore. Ballinger has not publicly responded to Paytass video.

Meanwhile, April Quioh, a television writer and former writers assistant on Ballingers short-lived Netflix show Haters Back Off, wrote about her experience on the show in her newsletter. Quioh described her time as writers assistant as so, so uncomfortable due in part to Ballingers demand that the show include incestual innuendo involving a character named Uncle Jim. (Uncle Jim, part of Miranda Sings lore, has an implied sexual relationship with Miranda). She often pitched stories in which Miranda and Uncle Jim would be caught in compromising positions or stomach-churning moments of intimacy that could always be easily explained away by a clueless Miranda, Quioh wrote.

Quioh also wrote about racist behavior from Ballinger, including Ballingers insistence that we used limited POC background actors as the show took place in Washington. While filming in an Asian food market dressed as a bodega, Ballinger demanded assurance that all the Asian shit would be removed before filming, according to Quioh. Ballinger repeatedly crossed professional boundaries with Quioh and the rest of the crew, per Quioh. She had a knack for making funny, biting comments about the people around her and since we all had her to thank for our jobs, we were forced to just go with it, Quioh wrote. She saw no issue with commenting on my hair, or my clothes, or asking about my personal life. Her lack of boundaries was remarkable. Ballinger has not responded to the accusations from Quioh.

On July 5, 2023, YouTuber Paige Christie posted a clip of Ballinger (as Miranda) allegedly in blackface, pretending to be Beyonce while performing Single Ladies in 2009. Legal representation for Ballinger denied she was doing blackface in a statement to Vulture. A full video shared by Variety shows Ballinger in Elphaba-green face paint performing As Long As Youre Mine from Wicked with Oliver Tompsett, a member of the original West End cast, directly before going into her Single Ladies performance.

This post has been updated.
Photo: Axelle/Bauer-Griffin/FilmMagic

Ezra Miller issued a statement after a temporary harassment order against them was lifted following a court hearing on Friday. Sharon Guin, mother of a 12-year-old, had filed the temporary order in Greenfield, Massachusetts after she accused the actor of menacing her family and acting inappropriately toward her child, according to a report from the Daily Beast. Per the report, Miller had an outburst at the familys home while carrying a gun and wearing a bullet-proof vest. Following this incident, Miller proceeded to harass the family and forcibly touch the child by hugging them and touching their hips, according to the mother and child. It was really uncomfortable. I was really nervous. I was scared to be around them after hed yelled at my mother and she was crying, the child told the Daily Beast.

No criminal charges were filed, and Millers attorney, Marissa Elkins, claims that Miller was never alone with the child and never interacted with the child outside of two brief encounters which occurred in the presence of several other adults. The attorney also denies that Miller had a gun during the incident at the familys home. In a court hearing in Greenfield District Court, which Miller attended, a judge ruled that the temporary restraining order (set to expire on July 1) would be lifted. Miller released a rare statement about the case on Instagram. Im encouraged by todays outcome and very grateful at this moment to everyone who has stood by me and sought to ensure this egregious misuses of the protective order system was halted, the statement reads.

The statement continues, Protective orders are meant to provide safety for individuals, families and children who are in danger. They are not meant to be used as weapons by those seeking attention or fleeting tabloid fame or some sort of personal vengeance when there are people in true and dire need of these services. Miller goes on to claim, I have been unjustly and directly targeted by an individual who the facts have shown has a history of such manipulative and destructive actions. They note that they are trying to reverse the collateral damage this ordeal has brought upon me and those close to me. Read the full statement above.
Photo: Taylor Hill/WireImage

Earlier this month, Spotify, Prince Harry, and Meghan Markle made a mutual decision to part ways on their $20 million exclusive deal. However, despite the microphones being put away, the noise inside Archewell Audio still seeps out in the form of drama and rumors. To backtrack a little: Spotify announced that the former royal family members signed an exclusive deal with it toward the end of 2020. With Archewell Audio, their goal was to create podcasts that centered on uplifting voice through shared experiences, powerful narratives, and universal values. During their time with Spotify, they released two podcasts: a holiday special and Archetypes, hosted by Markle, which discusses stereotypes against women that featured guests like Mariah Carey, Mindy Kaling, and Paris Hilton. However, just a little under three years after the announcement, Archewell Audio is splitting from Spotify and reportedly searching for a new home for its audio projects.

As Markle and Prince Harry try to figure out their next move, were still trying to figure out what in the past two years led to all this. Thankfully, weve compiled all the Meghan/Harry/Spotify drama and will be dishing it out in a 20-episode-long drawn-out podcast series with ads every 15 minutes. Kidding. Its all below for easy listening reading.

What was going on behind the scenes?

According to The Wall Street Journal, Spotify leadership was reportedly frustrated with the time it took to conceptualize and complete projects. Archewell struggled with its team, as it initially did not have a team member assigned to audio projects but eventually hired a head of audio. Despite the slow start, Archetypes flew to No. 1 on the Spotify charts and was in talks for a season two before the contract ended. However, its short success wasnt unconditional. Since its inception in 2020, the Archewell team had several departures in its leadership. The head of communications at Archewell left in May 2022, and several others, like the head of audio, head of scripted content, and head of marketing, left as well. Other departures included Promising Young Woman producer Ben Browning and president of Archewell Mandana Dayani.

Prince Harry pitched what as podcasts?

On Harrys end of the deal, he reportedly struggled to develop a podcast idea that led to an actual show. WSJ reported that some of his ideas ranged from interviewing military veterans to misinformation to his point of view on living in America. Others included celebrities involvement, like co-hosting an unnamed show with comedian Hasan Minhaj. According to Bloomberg, he was also interested in a podcast about fatherhood and major societal conversations, with Pope Francis on as a potential guest to talk about religion. However, the most random ideas that came from Harry were the reports that he wanted to interview guests like Vladimir Putin, Mark Zuckerberg, and Donald Trump on their childhood trauma to see how they became the people they are today.

What are industry leaders saying?

They are  not being supportive, to say the least. The CEO of UTA Jeremy Zimmer called Markle untalented during the Cannes Lions advertising festival. Turns out Meghan Markle was not a great audio talent, or necessarily any kind of talent, Zimmer reportedly said of the end of the podcasting deal and the trend of celebrity podcasts, according to Semafor. And, you know, just because youre famous doesnt make you great at something. Spotify executive and the Ringer CEO Bill Simmons called the couple grifters on his podcast, criticizing their involvement with the platform. The F**king Grifters. Thats the podcast we should have launched with them. I have got to get drunk one night and tell the story of the Zoom I had with Harry to try and help him with a podcast idea. Its one of my best stories  F**k them, he stated.

Have Harry and Meghan responded?

Not officially, no. But according to a report from the Daily Mail (which should be taken with a grain of salt), the pair have privately blamed bad luck for their failure to produce content at Spotify as well as Netflix. An unnamed insider told the Mail that Covid, economic woes, the death of the Queen and the decline in Price Philips health are, according to the couple, behind their misfortune. The word is that they think theyve been really unlucky, the source said.

Whats Taylor Swift got to do with this?

It all leads back to Taylor Swift. Markle allegedly wrote Swift a personal letter asking her to Speak Now (Taylors Version) to come on the Archetypes podcast, to which she declined through a representative  she was probably working on Midnights during that time, to be fair. No other details have been confirmed on what their episode topic wouldve been.

So, now what?

Well, the ex-royals still have their deal with Netflix. Despite Harry and Meghan becoming the most-watched documentary on the platform, they are apparently on thin ice, according to The Sun. The Sun reports that the couple was only paid half of their Netflix deal and will allegedly only get the rest if they produce another hit. Scripted content is probably off the table due to the ongoing writers strike, so the couple is perhaps coming up with some reality-show pitches. Maybe theres a dating show between royals and commoners coming soon to Netflix, as long as its nothing like I Wanna Marry Harry. Or actually 

This post has been updated.
Annual campaign urges Romans not to leave their dogs behind over summer holidays.

Rome has launched an awareness campaign calling on the capitals residents not to abandon their pets as they set off on vacation this summer.

The campaign is designed to counter "a cowardly and cruel practice that reaches its peak precisely in parallel with the summer holidays", said Rome's environment councillor Sabrina Alfonsi, who cited a recent report by animal protection group ENPA showing "an alarming 20 per cent rise" in the number of pets abandoned in 2022 compared to 2021 along with a 10 per cent decrease in adoptions.

Underlining that more than 50,000 dogs and around 80,000 cats are abandoned on average every year in Italy, Alfonsi said the city would soon launch a campaign to "encourage the adoption of elderly dogs, often destined to remain in kennels because it is normally puppies that are preferred."

The city stresses that the "inhuman" practice of abandoning a pet is a criminal offence, with those caught facing up to a year in prison and fines of up to 10,000.

Dog owners can check the website of Rome's Muratella kennels for useful information such as dog fostering services and "responsible" adoption from the city's dog shelters.
Palio is held each summer on 2 July and 16 August.

The historic Palio di Siena horse race returns on Sunday 2 July with bareback riders battling it out in the mediaeval heart of the Tuscan city.

The Palio dates back to the 17th century and is traditionally held on two dates - 2 July and 16 August - with the colourful spectacle attracting tens of thousands of spectators.

Photo credit: M. Rohana / Shutterstock.com

The event sees riders and horses race three laps around the central Piazza del Campo, in a fiercely-contested competition between 10 of the city's 17 rival contrade or neighbourhoods.

The contrade competing in Saturday's race are Istrice, Drago, Torre, Chiocciola, Aquila, Giraffa, Selva, Onda, Nicchio and Tartuca.

Piazza del Campo for Palio di Siena

Over the centuries the race has been cancelled only a handful of times: notably in 1855 due to a deadly outbreak of cholera, during world war two, and as a result of the covid pandemic in 2020 and 2021.

In recent years the Palio has been the subject of protest from animal rights activists who claim that horses endure suffering during the event.

The race is scheduled at 19.30 on Sunday, with live coverage on Italian television network La7 from 17.30.

Cover photo: Migel / Shutterstock.com
CMT pulled the video for Jason Aldean's "Try That in a Small Town," which is set at the Maury County Courthouse where a lynching and race riot took place.
AMSTERDAM  Dutch King Willem-Alexander apologized Saturday for his country's role in slavery and asked for forgiveness in a historic speech an event to commemorate the anniversary of the abolition of slavery.

The king's speech followed Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte's apology late last year for the country's role in the slave trade and slavery.

The king said he commissioned a study into the exact role of the royal House of Orange-Nassau in slavery in the Netherlands. Research published last month showed that the king's ancestors earned the modern-day equivalent of $595 million from slavery, including profits from shares that were effectively given to them as gifts.

Slavery was abolished in Suriname and the Dutch colonies in the Caribbean on July 1, 1863, but most of the enslaved laborers were forced to continue working on plantations for another 10 years.
When streaming landed on our screens, it was hailed as televisions promised land. It offered content at our beck and call, drawn from libraries as deep as the internet itself. But as balance sheet economics has caught up to the multi-billion dollar spending sprees, content is vanishing and streaming itself is evolving.

Among the dozens of film and TV titles cut from streamers, Disney+ has dropped the TV sequel Willow while Paramount+ has cut its Twilight Zone reboot, the Grease prequel Rise of the Pink Ladies and the Star Trek spin-off Prodigy. In the US, Westworld and Minx have vanished from Warner Bros Discoverys Max. There are dozens more gone, and more still to be cut.

FAST TV platform TUBI.

The reason is a fundamental realignment of streaming economics: Netflixs deal for Seinfeld, or Peacocks deal for The Office  both worth a breathtaking US$500 million - are the tip of an unsustainable iceberg. Its the reason why Comcast wants to cut US$1 billion from NBCUniversal and the BBC wants to cut 100 million from its originals budget. Its also why Spotify jettisoned its deal with the Duke and Duchess of Sussex. Big-ticket deals make great headlines, but they will not keep the lights on.

In its decade-long life, traditional streaming has created a marketplace of warehouses, essentially shopfronts operated by studios or broadcasters, such as Foxtels Binge, Nines Stan or, in the US, NBCs Peacock and Warner Bros Discoverys Max, which sell subscriber access to an on-demand library.
This story is part of the July 2 Edition of Sunday Life. See all 13 stories . 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 Eight Australian prime ministers, four US presidents and countless breakfast TV hosts have come and gone while Natalie Barr, 55, has remained a steadfast member of Channel Sevens Sunrise. Now in her 20th year, Barr recently experienced the shows biggest shake-up yet as she farewelled long-time host and friend David Koch. The pair were in tears as Kochie said his emotional goodbyes on Sunrise last month. After 21 years, his departure certainly felt like the end of an era, but Barr has been a permanent fixture of the show for almost the same length of time. In fact, her tenure is now set to become the longest of any Australian brekky TV star, notwithstanding her overall Channel Seven career, which amounts to an impressive 28 years. After spending her first 18 years at Sunrise as newsreader, Barr took over hosting duties from Samantha Armytage in 2021. Twenty years ago, Barr debated whether she should even take the now-coveted newsreader role. She says the boss of this fledgling, lowly rating show called Sunrise called her and offered her the position on the show Melissa Doyle and David Koch had been hosting for about six months. I thought, Im a senior reporter in the newsroom. I dont know whether I should risk it. It sounds ridiculous now, given that its a successful juggernaut, but I took a few days before I said yes, and it was obviously the best decision of my life. Matteau shirt, $350. Zara trousers, $149. Country Road Everly mules, $179. Natalies own watch. Credit: JEDD COONEY Talking to Barr evokes an overwhelming sense of familiarity, from her facial expressions to the recognisable tone of her voice. People look at me and think, Did I go to school with you or see you at the dentist last week? because theres a weird recognition, she says. Even if people arent regular viewers of the show, theyve seen me at some point over the last 20 years.

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With Kochs departure, all eyes are now on Barr and replacement host Matt Shirvo Shirvington, 44, but she says its been as smooth a transition as she couldve hoped for. Shirvo had filled in as co-host for the past 18 months, and Barr guessed hed got the gig before it was announced. The pair have known each other in a roundabout way for years. We live in the same area, so wed see each other in the street and say hi because we both vaguely knew who the other was, she says. Id be walking up to the corner to meet my son off the school bus and hed be walking past the same corner to get his daughter from the local school. This was years ago. Weve had this weaving in and out of each others lives and would see each other at events and always got along. Hes the type of guy who just fits in  a really nice, normal guy with a daggy-dad sense of humour. Barr says she doesnt feel any extra pressure being the more experienced of the pair. Its just the way its worked out that Ive had all these years on the show. Its a massive part of my life and I have developed that experience. Im proud of that. As a journalist, I was trained that people at home should not be able to tell who you vote for. I should be asking equally tough questions of both sides. NATALIE BARR With Barrs seniority, its likely shell conduct the major political interviews, something she says theyll be doing more of on the show. Its clear she has developed a thick skin and is ready for any scrutiny this might bring, particularly from the tabloid media. I dont mind a bit of scrutiny. I mean, Im on TV. Some people will like the way I do things, some wont. If you cant cope with that then I guess you shouldnt be on TV.

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As a journalist, I was trained that people at home should not be able to tell who you vote for. I should be asking equally tough questions of both sides. I try to adjudicate and be fair  thats important to me. Of course, some of the negative coverage goes further than how she has covered a story  something former hosts would attest to. You get personal scrutiny, horrible messages and critical articles written about you, she says. I think when you do a public job, its part and parcel. You cant expect everyone to be writing glowing appraisals. Otherwise, dont do it. Sometimes it hurts, sometimes it makes you want to cry, but I cant put myself out there on national TV and take the good reactions and not the bad. That would be naive. Loading Since I took over the hosting job, I made a pact with myself not to get into the comments. I turned the notifications off on Twitter years ago. People can DM me on Instagram but as soon as I get hate and abusive stuff, I block and delete. You cant stop people being nasty, thats just what society is like. As far as things being written, sometimes Ill think, Thats unfair, thats not how it went down. But its gone tomorrow. If you start hitting back, then it becomes a bigger story. Barr says the very early mornings that come with breakfast television are easier now that her sons  Lachlan, 21, and Hunter, 18  are older.

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Its harder if youve got little kids and theyre waking up in the middle of the night, but I will never complain about the hours we do, she says. There are paramedics and nurses and doctors who do shift work and ours is not that difficult. Im asleep by 8.30pm and Im up around 2.30am and have a nap most days. I started Sunrise when Lachlan was 18 months old, then had Hunter. Their whole lives have been this show  they know what it means to me. I wasnt ever there in the morning but my husband Drew was home, making the breakfast and school lunches, writing me a note telling me what I needed to buy for lunches the next day, and I was always there for the afternoon. Country Road sweater, $399. Bianca Spender trousers, $445. Alinka ring. Arms of Eve earrings. Credit: JEDD COONEY Hunter is doing his HSC this year and Lachlan is about to finish uni in Melbourne. Your life completely changes when they stop needing you so much, but our family WhatsApp group is very active. Unsurprisingly, being a news junkie is a huge part of Barrs personality. She credits her nose for news in part to her father, who watched five news bulletins every day. There was no protection of keeping kids away from the news in my house, she says. We watched everything; that was my upbringing and thats how Ive brought my kids up. Being sent to big news stories, theyre often awful stories but theyre also the big stories the world is watching and why I became a journalist. NATALIE BARR But it was her first experience in a newsroom that cemented her path. The timing was everything for Barr, who had suffered a traumatic health scare which saw her spend two months lying in a hospital bed  ultimately a character-defining experience for the plucky 15-year-old from Bunbury, Western Australia.

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I got really sick with a disease in my spine called osteomyelitis, she says. The bug had eaten two of my vertebrae and they were crumbling. Id had back pain and saw a physio who wrote to my doctor; I never saw what was in the note but that night I ended up in hospital, an orthopaedic surgeon telling me: Lie down or youll never sit up again. Loading I didnt sit up again for months. They flew me to Perth on the Royal Flying Doctor plane and gave me a lumbar puncture to find out the exact strain of the bug, then I went back to Bunbury and was on my back for the next couple of months, pumped with high-dose antibiotics. It was traumatic  I didnt know if Id be able to walk again. It was a really defining moment in my life because I was 15 and old enough to think, I dont know how Im going to get out of this situation.  Thankfully, Barr recovered with no lasting damage, but she was weak for months. After missing a term of school, she made up for the fact shed lost the chance to do work experience by organising her own placement at local TV station GWN7 during the Christmas holidays. I spent a week there and thought, This is it. This is what I want to do for the rest of my life. Its the most exciting thing: people race around, yell and scream at each other, race to the deadline at the end of the day, then come back and do it all again tomorrow. I couldnt believe the vibe, the excitement, the frustration, the anger. Bianca Spender coat, $1095. Re/Done singlet, $100, from Farfetch. Country Road jeans, $159. Alinka Black Caviar black diamond ring. Credit: JEDD COONEY

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Linda Marigliano is a radio and television presenter best known for her Tough Love podcast. The 38-year-old opens up about sipping from her Nonnos wine as a child, her dad doing her hair for the ARIA awards and being apart from her current partner for one-and-a-half years due to COVID lockdowns.

After we got engaged, I found myself frozen. I had to admit I didnt want to be in the relationship and initiated the break-up.

My paternal grandfather, Nonno Salvatore, was a police constable in Italy and served in the army. He migrated to Australia from Campania in the mid-1960s for a better life. He then brought out Nonna Carmelinda, who I am named after, and their three sons. My dad, the middle child, was 11 when he arrived in Sydney.

I remember sitting between Nonno, at the head of the table, and Nonna at meal times  we would visit them four nights a week. Nonno had a funny whistle to get my attention and would allow me to sip a tiny bit of his vino. A fashionable, dapper, proud Italian man who always wore a suit, hat and matching handkerchief, he died of a heart attack in 1999 on the dance floor at his first grandsons wedding. I was 14 and remember him being taken to the hospital and not coming home.

My maternal grandfather, Gung-Gung Loy Lim, lived in a tiny village in Malaysia. Wed visit him and my grandmother for six to eight weeks at a time in my childhood. He was a cotton and rubber farmer, a little tanned smoker who always grabbed my face. We were half-white and looked different to the others in the village.
The Yes campaign has received an injection of energy after grassroots supporters gathered at events around the country on Sunday, when they were urged to do everything they could to build momentum and help get the referendum over the line.

The string of Come Together for Yes events in capital cities and regional towns served as a test for the Yes23 campaign, which has come under pressure from Voice supporters to step up its efforts amid floundering support for the referendum in recent polling.

Voice supporters gather for the Come Together for Yes campaign in Sydneys Prince Alfred Park. Credit: Steven Siewert

A few thousand people gathered in Sydneys Prince Alfred Park on what was a sparkling winters day as teams of volunteers handed out Yes23 T-shirts and pamphlets explaining the proposed constitutional change.

As rain misted down in Melbourne, it was a smaller affair as hundreds of rugged-up Voice supporters gathered outside the Victorian Trades Hall, where they were urged to keep that fire burning despite negative commentary and division enveloping the push.
Our integrity with our neighbours will certainly be undermined  thats the Pacific. We will give ammunition to our enemies in other places, or people that are opposed to us internationally. We will go through a process of wondering why a simple matter could not be achieved in such a sophisticated nation as ours. Asked whether Australia could continue to criticise China over its treatment of Uighurs and Tibetans, Dodson said: Wed have no integrity, absolutely no integrity. Dodson, who is Prime Minister Anthony Albaneses special envoy for the implementation of the Uluru Statement from the Heart, said Australia wasnt coming to the international stage with entirely clean hands and its colonial past can be exploited by our competitors and by those who want to demean our integrity. Under this Labor government, were showing we are engaging with the Pacific, were not frightened by the atrocities that are going on in Ukraine, Dodson said.

Weve got to go to the international forum with substance, not just with intellectual ideas and strategies, as a people of substance  and thats what will happen with a Yes vote. Because people will say: You as a modern democracy have faced your legacies, your worst fears, and youve worked your way through it, and youve stood the challenge. Loading There has been a growing divide within the Yes movement over whether to talk more about constitutional recognition and less about the Voice. Leading Voice architect Noel Pearson this month said there was an urgent need to elevate the goal of recognising Indigenous Australians in the Constitution above the creation of the Voice advisory body. Dodson said recognition and the Voice were equally important.

I think youve got to link both matters. I dont think selling people half a chocolate is the thing to do, he said. This is about the recognition, and giving people the capacity to make representations that are advisory to our parliament and executive. Campaigners for the Yes side have been trying, since the legislation setting up the referendum passed parliament earlier this month, to remind voters that the Voice came out of the bottom-up process of the Uluru Dialogues. Dodson said getting the debate out of Canberra and into communities would be difficult and it would take strong advocacy from a number of organisations and individuals. If the Voice is defeated, Dodson said I dont think Ill despair, but it would be a great day of reckoning for Australians.

I do think Australians are better than those that are currently running the No case, he said. I think theyre the rump of the worst. Unfortunately, they are very loud and they are very intrusive. The Yes campaign will hold a series of rallies on Sunday, including in Sydneys Prince Alfred Park and the Victorian Trades Hall, from 11am to 2pm. Yes23 director Dean Parkin said the campaign would ramp up now that the parliamentary process in Canberra was over. Asked about the trajectory of the public polls, Parkin said the legislative process in setting up the referendum was always going to be a necessary but tricky period.

The dominant conversation was people arguing in Canberra about this. Thats not something that attracts people into the conversation, thats not something that engages people in a very positive way, he said. Dean Parkin says a lot of Australians still dont know what the referendum is about. Credit: Alex Ellinghausen Its not going to go away completely, but some of that noise is not as prominent and allows us to have these events, it allows us to sign up more volunteers to the campaign. Parkin said his side always knew the debate was going to be contested and it would be difficult to win the referendum. There are a lot of people out there who havent heard about this, he said.
Two people have been killed and 28 others wounded, including four children, in a mass shooting in Baltimore.

An 18-year-old woman and 20-year-old man were killed in the shooting on Sunday and three victims were in a critical condition in the city, 64 kilometres north of Washington DC.

Police at the scene of the South Baltimore shooting. Credit: Courtesy: Fox45

At least four victims were treated in the University of Maryland Medical Centres Pediatric Emergency Department, the hospital said, without providing details on their ages.

This investigation is ongoing, and we will not rest until the people responsible are held accountable, Mayor Brandon Scott and the police department said in a joint statement.
CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla.  Saturn has a fresh new look thanks to NASA's Webb Space Telescope.

The gas giant is dark in the latest photo by Webb, released Friday, but its icy rings are glowing.

Webb snapped the picture in the infrared last weekend. At this wavelength, the planet appears dark because sunlight is absorbed by methane in the atmosphere. But the icy rings remain bright.

Three of Saturn's many moons also got caught on camera.

Scientists are thrilled with this latest shot, which captures Saturn's atmosphere in detail. They hope to uncover new ring structures as well as any new, faint moons that might be lurking there.

"We look forward to digging into the deep exposures to see what discoveries may await," Matthew Tiscareno, a senior research scientist at the SETI Institute, said in a statement.

This image was taken as part of the Webb Guaranteed Time Observation program 1247 and "shows surprising and unexpected detail," according to NASA, including several very deep exposures of Saturn.
FORKS TWP., Pa. - When life gives you lemons, you make lemonade.

But cancer survivor Ben Austin wanted to make lemonade that would change lives.

"I wanted to help people with cancer like me," said Ben Austin.

Ben was diagnosed with a Wilms tumor at the age of 3.

He relapsed and today is a two-time survivor.

"He's gonna be 11 now. We're in remission now for 5 years," said Ben's mom Sara.

"We're lucky enough to be here," said Jason Austin, Ben's dad.

For three summers now, the Austin family has set up an Alex's Lemonade Stand.

"We keep getting bigger and bigger every time," said Sara.

Each cup poured means one more dollar towards fighting childhood cancer.

"We're raising awareness," said Ben Austin.

Friends, family members, and even neighbors who never met Ben showed up to support the kids going through what he did.

"I helped by being a supportive friend," said Ben's friend, Giovanni Perrucci.

"Without support from friends and family and neighborhood, we probably wouldn't make it through this," said Jason.

The Austin family says they plan to continue this tradition to help kids with cancer, while cheering Ben on as a survivor.

"Are you proud of him?"

"Yes," said Ben's sister Elle.
FORKS TWP., Pa. - Police have issued an arrest warrant for a woman who victims say assaulted and robbed them on Saturday afternoon.

The woman, Taylor Marie Llorens, allegedly assaulted and took the cell phones of two residents in the first block of Saratoga Court in Forks Township around 1:40 p.m. Saturday, police said. Llorens fled the scene and was thought to be heading to New York City, police said.

Llorens, 30, is described as a white woman with black hair and brown eyes. She stands 5-foot-6 and weighs 129 pounds, police said.

According to Forks police, Llorens is charged with two counts of harassment, as well as one count each of robbery, assault, and unauthorized use of an automobile.

Police ask anyone with information on Llorens' whereabouts to call 610-759-2200.
Fifty years ago this month, Larry Boehmer talked Zoo Bar owner Jim Ludwig into letting him book bands into the long, narrow club at 136 N. 14th St.

Slapping up posters of B.B. King, Edgar Winter and other blues-oriented artists on the walls, and adding more locally produced flyers for shows that were held there, Boehmer created over a couple decades a Lincoln cultural institution.

After more than 13,000 performances on what Dave Alvin calls its microscopic stage, the Zoo Bar is celebrating its 50th anniversary this week with three nights of music inside the club and an expanded ZooFest, the annual festival on 14th Street outside the club, to mark the milestone.

The first band to play the Zoo 50 years ago this month was the Cotton Blues Band, starting a two-year run where local acoustic solo artists were booked Monday and Tuesday, an open mic night for acoustic musicians happened on Wednesdays and local bands were booked for three-night stands Thursday through Saturday.

Those solo artists, like Dr. John Walker, Steve Fuzzy Blazek and Chris Sayre, and bands Homecookin, Megatones, Bluegrass Crusade, Sandy Creek Band, Sour Mash and Jon Emery built up a pretty good crowd, way before The Drumstick, for anything other than cover music, said David Boye, who is compiling a Zoo Bar history.

Many of the musicians from those groups continue to perform at the Zoo and will be part of the 50th Waltz, a gathering of local players from throughout the Zoos history that will close ZooFest on Saturday.

Dave Robel, Dave Morris, Steve Hanson, all those people that were from back then are still there, still playing, still happy to come back to the club and the Zoos happy to have them, said Boye, wholl also be part of the 50th Waltz. To me, thats pretty phenomenal.

Two years and three months after the Cotton Blues Band show, the first national act to play the club was Luther Allison, who had an open night on his schedule after a University of Nebraska-Lincoln show in October 1975.

I walked down there, went directly into his dressing room and asked, What are you doing tomorrow night? Boehmer told the Journal Star in 1988.

They were sitting there with a 12-pack of Budweiser in a sack. Luther ripped off a piece of the brown paper bag and said, Lets get Larry a contract. He wrote, I, Luther Allison, will play for Larry Boehmer for $400. It might have been $300. I wish I still had that contract.

Allisons Oct. 4, 1975, show, however, wasnt the first touring engagement that Boehmer signed for the Zoo.

He actually booked a show before Luther played, a guy from Chicago named Bob Riedy, Boye said. He was a keyboard player who sat in with a lot of bands in Chicago and booked a lot of bands. When Larry got the go-ahead to book him, Riedy put together a band and drove down. Hes important because he was actually the source of a lot of bands (from Chicago) that ended up coming to the Zoo, including Magic Slim, who Larry didnt know.

Magic Slim became a Zoo Bar institution, playing weeklong engagements at the club and moving to Lincoln in the mid-1990s.

In 1978, Grammy-winning harmonica master Charlie Musselwhite became one of the first handful of prominent blues artists to play the Zoo, making the first of who knows how many appearances at the club.

I wish I remembered all the times when I played there, Musselwhite said. For many years, when Larry had the place, I was playing here more than once a year. Most often, Id be there, staying at Larrys house. On Halloween, Id answer the door to give candy to the kids. Back then, Tim and Jeff (Boehmers son) were just little tikes running around the house.

Like, Magic Slim, Lonnie Mack, James Harman, Billy Bacon and many other artists who regularly played the Zoo, Musselwhite would often take his days off from the road in Lincoln.

Lincoln would be affordable, he said. You can stay there for a few days, have some downtime, hang out with Larry, hang out at the Zoo, walk around downtown. It was just great.

He said he looked forward to being in Lincoln, whether he was working or had time off. And especially when youre touring across the country. It was just like an oasis, a great place to be, Musselwhite said.

In the late 70s, Boehmer began bringing a whos who of the blues to the Zoo  Albert Collins, Buddy Guy, Otis Rush, Lonnie Brooks, Koko Taylor, Jimmy Johnson, Son Seals, Jimmy Rogers, Hubert Sumlin, the Legendary Blues Band (Muddy Waters band), Matt Guitar Murphy, Gatemouth Brown, Elvin Bishop, John Hammond and many, many more.

That lineup, and its ongoing support of new blues artists, earned the Zoo Bar an international reputation as a blues club, the 1993 Blues Music Award as the best club in America and recognition  at 50 years  as the longest running blues club in a single location anywhere.

The Zoo, however, is not now, nor has it ever been exclusively a blues club.

Some people think that changed, said Zoo owner Pete Watters, who has worked at the club since 1987. It became famous for blues, but there was always bluegrass, lots of bluegrass early, country, reggae and rock n roll.

Thats borne out by a list of artists who have hit the Zoo Bar stage: rock n roll Hall of Famers Wanda Jackson and Link Wray, Chuck Berrys pianist Johnnie Johnson, Texas music legends Doug Sahm and the Sir Douglas Quintet, and roadhouse master Delbert McClinton, Jamaican reggaes The Gladiators, swamp rocker Tony Joe White, western swings Asleep at the Wheel, Omaha native rock drummer Buddy Miles, new waver Jonathan Richman, outrageous MTV star Mojo Nixon, and, after a ZooFest rainout, Jason Isbell.

Among those is Derek Trucks, the steel guitar wizard who, after a stint in the Allman Brothers Band, now leads the Tedeschi Trucks Band with wife Susan Tedeschi.

I played there with my first band, the Derek Trucks Band, I bet it was 20 years ago, maybe more, but somewhere in there, Trucks said.

He said he has fond memories of Lincoln and the Zoo, which the band played maybe a half dozen times. We had some good times there. ... We had a few good days off there, too. I remember we had a band rager at a bowling alley at one point. Its funny the things you remember from the road.

The Zoo Bar, which emerged out of the blues revival of the late 60s that found college students embracing the blues they had heard via English blues-rock bands, is something of an endangered species today.

There arent that many places like that left, said zydecos Terrance Simien, who has played the Zoo since 1987. There used to be a circuit around the country where youd find a room like the Zoo Bar in every major city, he said. But those places havent stayed open or prospered like the Zoo Bar.

The Zoo Bar is something very, very special there in Lincoln, Simien said.

The Zoo came close to closing in 1983-84. Boehmer, who bought the bar from Ludwig in 1977, opened another club, Larrys Showcase, using the Zoo Bar as collateral.

The competition between the new venue and the Zoo, a couple blocks away, and an unexpected increase in rent led to the closing of Larrys Showcase and left Boehmer thousands of dollars in debt, with his bar on the line.

Boehmer had all his friends come to the Zoo Bar for a meeting. He said Im in a desperate place right now. I need money. Theyre going to shut this place down, Boye said. Those people came through. They paid off the loan. Larry wrote down how much every person contributed and paid them all back.

Watters became owner in February 2001 and has kept the bar afloat for 23 years, about as long as Boehmer, who died in 2012, owned the club.

Weve had to make some changes, Watters said of how hes kept the Zoo alive in a time when clubs across the country have been shuttered. We had to go to earlier shows, which opened up some things, we can do younger bands later. My wife Amanda keeps me less disorganized.

He also credits his staff with the bars success. Were fortunate to have a staff that believes in it and has been as stable a staff as you can possibly have. People who worked here are still around and part of the family. That helps you more than you think it does.

But Watters and Musselwhite also credit the bars longevity to the patrons, who connect with the artists and support the bar.

Its a family atmosphere as well, Watters said. That support has always been there for Larry and for me. It couldnt have been more obvious than during the pandemic. People gave us unbelievable support, donating to the bar, buying wine they didnt need so we could stay open.

The Zoo is not a large space  Im speaking literally and figuratively  people are right next to the band and they connect with the bands. The family atmosphere extends to the bands. When I have a band who I know has a lot of friends in town, I dont worry about what the crowds going to be.

The Zoo Bar is now on its second and third generations in the audience and onstage, where Shawn Lil Slim Holt is a regular performer, and on this weeks festival stage, where, Shemekia Copeland, the daughter of bluesman Johnny Copeland, will sing next Sunday night.

Shemekia Copeland has played the Zoo a few times. But shes on the ZooFest lineup to help fulfill Watters vision for the festival that honors the bars history but prevents it from becoming a museum by presenting contemporary roots artists who may have never played Lincoln.

How many years have John Primer, The Bel-Airs and Charlie Musselwhite played the Zoo Bar? Watters said. At the same time, Karl Denson, Amythyst Kiah and the James Hunter Six will be here for the first time. Thats the balance I strive for.

ZooFest will draw thousands over its three days, many of whom arent regular patrons or who havent been to a show there in years.

Theres a lot of people I dont see a lot during the year who somehow make it to the fest, Watters said. Its like a high school reunion for some people of a certain age. One of the challenges of having it in the summertime is there are all kinds of events going on. I get questions in December and January wanting to know what the dates are. They dont care whos playing. They want to know the dates so they can plan their summer accordingly.

There will, of course, be some newcomers at ZooFest, including Kiah, who, after learning that the festival is celebrating a half-century of the Zoo, is excited to take her turn on the stage Friday.

That is quite the accomplishment, Kiah said. I understand how hard it is really to keep anything open, especially after the past two years. So thats awesome. Thats really cool. Im glad to be part of that and celebrate. Thats amazing.

IF YOU GO

INSIDE ZOO BAR

Monday

8 p.m.  Baby Jason and the Spankers

10 p.m.  Tony Meza and The Chupacabra

Tuesday

5 p.m.  Action Mike & The Sweaty Boys

7 p.m.  Universe Contest

Wednesday

6 p.m.  Sailing in Soup

8 p.m.  Josh Hoyer and Soul Colossal

10 p.m.  Vibecheck

OUTSIDE AT ZOOFEST

On 14th Street between O and P streets

Thursday

5 p.m.  The Bel-Airs

7 p.m.  Igor & Red Elvises

9 p.m.  Charlie Musselwhite

Friday

5 p.m.  The Jimmys

7 p.m.  Amethyst Kiah

9 p.m.  Karl Densons Tiny Universe

11 p.m.  Andy William & The Nebraska All Stars

Saturday

1 p.m.  BluesEd

3 p.m.  The Lightning Bugs/Fabtones 5

5 p.m.  John Primer & The Real Deal Blues Band

7 p.m.  The James Hunter Six

9 p.m.  Shemekia Copeland

11 p.m.  The 50th Waltz

ZooFest tickets

Thursday  $40 advance, $50 day of show

Friday  $50 advance, $60 day of show

Saturday  $50 advance, $60 day of show

3-day pass$120

Advance tickets available at zoobar.com and ticketweb.com

Photos: The Zoo Bar celebrates 50 years
WASHINGTON (AP)  A judge on Friday awarded more than $1 million to a Black church in downtown Washington, D.C. that sued the far-right Proud Boys for tearing down and burning a Black Lives Matter banner during a 2020 protest.

Superior Court Associated Judge Neal A. Kravitz also barred the extremist group and its leaders from coming near the Metropolitan African Methodist Episcopal Church or making threats or defamatory remarks against the church or its pastor for five years.

"Our courage and determination to fight back in response to the 2020 attack on our church is a beacon of hope for our community and todays ruling showed us what our collective vision and voice can achieve, said the Rev. William H. Lamar IV, pastor of Metropolitan AME, in a statement from the church's counsel on Saturday. While A.M.E. refused to be silenced in the face of white supremacist violence, that does not mean real trauma and damage did not occur  merely that congregants and the church have and will continue to rise above it.

The ruling was a default judgment issued after the defendants failed to show up in court to fight the case.

Two Black Lives Matter banners were pulled down from Metropolitan AME and another historically Black church and burned during clashes between pro-Donald Trump supporters and counterdemonstrators in December 2020.

The destruction took place after weekend rallies by thousands of people in support of Trumps baseless claims that he won a second term, which led to dozens of arrests, several stabbings and injuries to police officers.

Metropolitan AME sued the Proud Boys and their leaders, alleging they violated D.C. and federal law by trespassing and destroying religious property in a bias-related conspiracy.

The attack against Metropolitan A.M.E. was an attempt to silence the congregations voice and its support for Black life, dignity, and safety. It represents just the latest chapter in a long history of white supremacist violence targeting Black houses of worship, said Damon Hewitt, president and executive director of the Lawyers Committee for Civil Rights Under Law, in the church counsel's statement. These attacks are meant to intimidate and create fear, and this lawsuits aim was to hold those who engage in such action accountable."

Proud Boys leader Henry Enrique" Tarrio, of Miami, publicly acknowledged setting fire to one banner, which prosecutors said was stolen from Asbury United Methodist Church.

In July 2021, Tarrio pleaded guilty to two misdemeanor criminal charges of property destruction and attempted possession of a high-capacity magazine.

He was sentenced to more than five months in jail.

Tarrio and other members of the Proud Boys were separately convicted of seditious conspiracy charges as part of a plot to attack the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021, in a desperate bid to keep Donald Trump in power after the Republican lost the 2020 presidential election.
Azul (NYSE:AZUL  Free Report) and Norwegian Air Shuttle ASA (OTCMKTS:NWARF  Free Report) are both transportation companies, but which is the better stock? We will compare the two businesses based on the strength of their profitability, risk, earnings, dividends, analyst recommendations, institutional ownership and valuation.

Profitability

This table compares Azul and Norwegian Air Shuttle ASAs net margins, return on equity and return on assets.

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Net Margins Return on Equity Return on Assets Azul -25.93% N/A -14.15% Norwegian Air Shuttle ASA N/A N/A N/A

Earnings & Valuation

This table compares Azul and Norwegian Air Shuttle ASAs gross revenue, earnings per share and valuation.

Gross Revenue Price/Sales Ratio Net Income Earnings Per Share Price/Earnings Ratio Azul $3.09 billion 1.87 -$139.92 million ($5.80) -2.36 Norwegian Air Shuttle ASA N/A N/A N/A ($8.11) -0.12

Institutional & Insider Ownership

Norwegian Air Shuttle ASA has lower revenue, but higher earnings than Azul. Azul is trading at a lower price-to-earnings ratio than Norwegian Air Shuttle ASA, indicating that it is currently the more affordable of the two stocks.

2.3% of Azul shares are held by institutional investors. Comparatively, 31.8% of Norwegian Air Shuttle ASA shares are held by institutional investors. 1.0% of Azul shares are held by company insiders. Strong institutional ownership is an indication that hedge funds, endowments and large money managers believe a company will outperform the market over the long term.

Analyst Ratings

This is a breakdown of recent ratings and target prices for Azul and Norwegian Air Shuttle ASA, as provided by MarketBeat.com.

Sell Ratings Hold Ratings Buy Ratings Strong Buy Ratings Rating Score Azul 1 4 1 0 2.00 Norwegian Air Shuttle ASA 0 0 3 0 3.00

Azul presently has a consensus price target of $10.12, suggesting a potential downside of 26.10%. Given Azuls higher possible upside, research analysts plainly believe Azul is more favorable than Norwegian Air Shuttle ASA.

Summary

Norwegian Air Shuttle ASA beats Azul on 6 of the 10 factors compared between the two stocks.

About Azul

(Free Report)

Azul S.A., together with its subsidiaries, provides scheduled air transportation services in Brazil. As of December 31, 2022, the company operated approximately 1,000 daily departures to 158 destinations through a network of 300 non-stop routes with an operating fleet of 177 aircraft and a passenger contractual fleet of 194 aircraft. It is also involved in the cargo transportation, loyalty programs, travel packages, funding, logistics solutions, and aircraft financing activities. The company was incorporated in 2008 and is headquartered in Barueri, Brazil.

About Norwegian Air Shuttle ASA

(Free Report)

Norwegian Air Shuttle ASA, together with its subsidiaries, provides air travel services in Norway and internationally. It operates short haul point to point domestic and cross border flights services. It is also involved in aircraft financing, leasing, and ownership activities; and cargo activities. It operates a fleet of 70 aircrafts. Norwegian Air Shuttle ASA was founded in 1993 and is headquartered in Fornebu, Norway.

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BlackRock ESG Capital Allocation Trust (NYSE:ECAT  Free Report) was the target of a large growth in short interest during the month of June. As of June 15th, there was short interest totalling 54,800 shares, a growth of 51.8% from the May 31st total of 36,100 shares. Based on an average daily volume of 314,400 shares, the short-interest ratio is currently 0.2 days.

BlackRock ESG Capital Allocation Trust Price Performance

Shares of ECAT stock traded up $0.11 during mid-day trading on Friday, hitting $15.66. 493,010 shares of the companys stock were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 311,878. BlackRock ESG Capital Allocation Trust has a fifty-two week low of $12.74 and a fifty-two week high of $15.99. The stock has a 50-day simple moving average of $15.52 and a two-hundred day simple moving average of $14.89.

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BlackRock ESG Capital Allocation Trust Dividend Announcement

The firm also recently disclosed a monthly dividend, which was paid on Friday, June 30th. Stockholders of record on Thursday, June 15th were issued a dividend of $0.125 per share. This represents a $1.50 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 9.58%. The ex-dividend date was Wednesday, June 14th.

Insider Activity

Institutional Inflows and Outflows

In related news, major shareholder Saba Capital Management, L.P. purchased 49,903 shares of the companys stock in a transaction that occurred on Wednesday, June 28th. The shares were purchased at an average price of $15.55 per share, for a total transaction of $775,991.65. Following the transaction, the insider now directly owns 13,216,427 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $205,515,439.85. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through this hyperlink . In the last three months, insiders bought 1,650,247 shares of company stock valued at $25,585,254.

A number of hedge funds and other institutional investors have recently added to or reduced their stakes in ECAT. Envestnet Asset Management Inc. acquired a new position in BlackRock ESG Capital Allocation Trust in the second quarter valued at $179,000. LPL Financial LLC purchased a new position in BlackRock ESG Capital Allocation Trust in the second quarter valued at about $707,000. Wells Fargo & Company MN raised its position in BlackRock ESG Capital Allocation Trust by 24.2% in the second quarter. Wells Fargo & Company MN now owns 411,641 shares of the companys stock valued at $5,890,000 after purchasing an additional 80,127 shares during the period. Citadel Advisors LLC raised its position in BlackRock ESG Capital Allocation Trust by 13.1% in the second quarter. Citadel Advisors LLC now owns 108,557 shares of the companys stock valued at $1,553,000 after purchasing an additional 12,565 shares during the period. Finally, Royal Bank of Canada raised its position in BlackRock ESG Capital Allocation Trust by 31.4% in the third quarter. Royal Bank of Canada now owns 417,564 shares of the companys stock valued at $5,349,000 after purchasing an additional 99,793 shares during the period.

BlackRock ESG Capital Allocation Trust Company Profile

(Free Report)

BlackRock ESG Capital Allocation Trusts (ECAT) (the Trust) investment objectives are to provide total return and income through a combination of current income, current gains and long-term capital appreciation. The Trust invests in a portfolio of equity and debt securities. Generally, the Trusts portfolio will include both equity and debt securities.

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BlackRock MuniVest Fund, Inc. (NYSE:MVF  Free Report) was the target of a large decrease in short interest during the month of June. As of June 15th, there was short interest totalling 6,500 shares, a decrease of 50.8% from the May 31st total of 13,200 shares. Based on an average trading volume of 124,900 shares, the short-interest ratio is currently 0.1 days.

BlackRock MuniVest Fund Stock Up 0.1 %

Shares of MVF stock traded up $0.01 during trading hours on Friday, hitting $6.73. The companys stock had a trading volume of 58,079 shares, compared to its average volume of 117,614. The company has a 50 day moving average of $6.70 and a 200 day moving average of $6.85. BlackRock MuniVest Fund has a 12-month low of $6.33 and a 12-month high of $7.90.

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BlackRock MuniVest Fund Announces Dividend

The firm also recently disclosed a monthly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, July 3rd. Stockholders of record on Thursday, June 15th will be issued a $0.021 dividend. This represents a $0.25 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 3.74%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Wednesday, June 14th.

Hedge Funds Weigh In On BlackRock MuniVest Fund

BlackRock MuniVest Fund Company Profile

Several large investors have recently made changes to their positions in MVF. JPMorgan Chase & Co. lifted its stake in shares of BlackRock MuniVest Fund by 2,429.9% in the 4th quarter. JPMorgan Chase & Co. now owns 3,896 shares of the companys stock valued at $27,000 after purchasing an additional 3,742 shares during the period. Ameritas Advisory Services LLC acquired a new position in shares of BlackRock MuniVest Fund in the 1st quarter valued at $34,000. Steward Partners Investment Advisory LLC lifted its stake in shares of BlackRock MuniVest Fund by 110.5% in the 1st quarter. Steward Partners Investment Advisory LLC now owns 6,246 shares of the companys stock valued at $43,000 after purchasing an additional 3,279 shares during the period. Nomura Holdings Inc. acquired a new position in shares of BlackRock MuniVest Fund in the 4th quarter valued at $70,000. Finally, Ironsides Asset Advisors LLC acquired a new position in shares of BlackRock MuniVest Fund in the 4th quarter valued at $73,000. 36.82% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

(Free Report)

BlackRock MuniVest Fund, Inc is a closed-ended fixed income mutual fund launched by BlackRock, Inc It is managed by BlackRock Advisors, LLC. The fund invests in the fixed income markets of the United States. It primarily invests in investment grade, long term municipal obligations that are exempt from federal income taxes.

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Aon plc (NYSE:AON  Free Report) has been given a consensus rating of Hold by the thirteen research firms that are presently covering the stock, MarketBeat.com reports. One analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, nine have issued a hold rating and three have issued a buy rating on the company. The average 12-month price objective among analysts that have issued a report on the stock in the last year is $326.73.

Several brokerages recently weighed in on AON. StockNews.com began coverage on AON in a research report on Thursday, May 18th. They issued a hold rating on the stock. Wells Fargo & Company increased their target price on AON from $320.00 to $321.00 and gave the stock an equal weight rating in a research report on Wednesday, April 5th. JPMorgan Chase & Co. increased their target price on AON from $320.00 to $322.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a research report on Friday, March 31st. Citigroup increased their target price on AON from $340.00 to $344.00 in a research report on Tuesday, April 18th. Finally, Morgan Stanley began coverage on AON in a research report on Tuesday, June 20th. They issued an equal weight rating and a $340.00 target price on the stock.

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AON Trading Up 0.9 %

Shares of AON stock opened at $345.20 on Friday. AON has a fifty-two week low of $262.42 and a fifty-two week high of $347.37. The firm has a market cap of $70.51 billion, a PE ratio of 27.70, a P/E/G ratio of 2.61 and a beta of 0.90. The businesss fifty day moving average is $324.53 and its two-hundred day moving average is $315.58. The company has a quick ratio of 2.04, a current ratio of 2.04 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 182.36.

AON Increases Dividend

AON ( NYSE:AON Free Report ) last issued its quarterly earnings results on Friday, April 28th. The financial services provider reported $5.17 earnings per share for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of $5.32 by ($0.15). AON had a negative return on equity of 4,553.36% and a net margin of 20.63%. The business had revenue of $3.87 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $3.85 billion. During the same period in the prior year, the company earned $4.83 EPS. The companys revenue for the quarter was up 5.5% compared to the same quarter last year. Analysts anticipate that AON will post 14.38 earnings per share for the current year.

The firm also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Monday, May 15th. Stockholders of record on Monday, May 1st were paid a dividend of $0.615 per share. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Friday, April 28th. This is an increase from AONs previous quarterly dividend of $0.56. This represents a $2.46 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 0.71%. AONs dividend payout ratio (DPR) is currently 19.74%.

Insider Buying and Selling

In related news, President Eric Andersen sold 7,500 shares of AON stock in a transaction dated Tuesday, May 9th. The stock was sold at an average price of $335.55, for a total value of $2,516,625.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the president now directly owns 144,164 shares in the company, valued at $48,374,230.20. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which can be accessed through the SEC website. Insiders own 1.15% of the companys stock.

Hedge Funds Weigh In On AON

A number of large investors have recently bought and sold shares of AON. Equitable Holdings Inc. raised its holdings in shares of AON by 2.3% during the first quarter. Equitable Holdings Inc. now owns 1,447 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $456,000 after buying an additional 32 shares during the last quarter. Penserra Capital Management LLC boosted its stake in shares of AON by 3.2% during the 4th quarter. Penserra Capital Management LLC now owns 1,060 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $317,000 after buying an additional 33 shares during the period. Brookstone Capital Management boosted its stake in shares of AON by 2.8% during the 1st quarter. Brookstone Capital Management now owns 1,243 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $410,000 after buying an additional 34 shares during the period. CVA Family Office LLC lifted its stake in shares of AON by 13.7% in the 3rd quarter. CVA Family Office LLC now owns 290 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $78,000 after purchasing an additional 35 shares during the last quarter. Finally, CHICAGO TRUST Co NA lifted its stake in shares of AON by 0.9% in the 4th quarter. CHICAGO TRUST Co NA now owns 4,100 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $1,231,000 after purchasing an additional 35 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors own 85.21% of the companys stock.

AON Company Profile

(Free Report

Aon plc, a professional services firm, provides advice and solutions to clients focused on risk, retirement, and health worldwide. It offers commercial risk solutions, including retail brokerage, specialty solutions, global risk consulting and captives management, and affinity programs; and health solutions, such as health and benefits brokerages, and health care exchanges.

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Coca-Cola HBC AG (LON:CCH  Free Report) has been given a consensus rating of Moderate Buy by the six research firms that are covering the company, Marketbeat reports. Two research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and four have issued a buy rating on the company. The average 12-month price target among brokers that have issued a report on the stock in the last year is GBX 2,552.50 ($32.45).

A number of equities research analysts recently weighed in on the company. Numis Securities reaffirmed an add rating and set a GBX 2,800 ($35.60) price target on shares of Coca-Cola HBC in a report on Thursday, May 25th. Jefferies Financial Group reaffirmed a buy rating and set a GBX 2,800 ($35.60) price target on shares of Coca-Cola HBC in a report on Wednesday, March 22nd. Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft dropped their price target on Coca-Cola HBC from GBX 2,580 ($32.80) to GBX 2,545 ($32.36) and set a buy rating for the company in a report on Tuesday, April 4th. Barclays reaffirmed an overweight rating and set a GBX 2,700 ($34.33) price target on shares of Coca-Cola HBC in a report on Tuesday, April 4th. Finally, JPMorgan Chase & Co. reaffirmed a neutral rating on shares of Coca-Cola HBC in a report on Tuesday, May 30th.

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Insider Activity

In other news, insider Zoran Bogdanovic bought 190 shares of the stock in a transaction dated Friday, June 16th. The stock was bought at an average cost of GBX 2,328 ($29.60) per share, with a total value of 4,423.20 ($5,623.90). In the last ninety days, insiders bought 540 shares of company stock valued at $1,300,979. Company insiders own 46.86% of the companys stock.

Coca-Cola HBC Trading Up 1.4 %

Coca-Cola HBC Increases Dividend

Shares of CCH opened at GBX 2,345 ($29.82) on Friday. Coca-Cola HBC has a 1 year low of GBX 1,775 ($22.57) and a 1 year high of GBX 2,582 ($32.83). The company has a current ratio of 1.24, a quick ratio of 0.80 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 101.01. The stock has a 50 day simple moving average of GBX 2,419.72 and a 200-day simple moving average of GBX 2,198.05. The stock has a market cap of 8.66 billion, a PE ratio of 2,442.71, a PEG ratio of 2.36 and a beta of 0.97.

The company also recently announced a dividend, which was paid on Monday, June 19th. Stockholders of record on Thursday, May 25th were paid a 0.78 ($0.85) dividend. This is a boost from Coca-Cola HBCs previous dividend of $0.71. This represents a dividend yield of 2.67%. The ex-dividend date was Thursday, May 25th. Coca-Cola HBCs dividend payout ratio (DPR) is 6,979.17%.

Coca-Cola HBC Company Profile

(Free Report

Coca-Cola HBC AG engages in the production, distribution, and sale of non-alcoholic ready-to-drink beverages under franchise in Switzerland and internationally. The company offers sparkling soft drinks, adult sparkling, hydration drinks, juices, ready-to-drink tea, energy drinks, dairy, coffee, water, plant-based drinks, premium spirits and flavored alcoholic beverages, and snacks.

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Canaccord Genuity Group assumed coverage on shares of Corteva (NYSE:CTVA  Free Report) in a report issued on Wednesday morning, Briefing.com reports. The firm issued a buy rating and a $75.00 price objective on the stock.

A number of other equities research analysts have also commented on CTVA. Barclays dropped their target price on Corteva from $75.00 to $70.00 in a research report on Thursday, June 1st. OTR Global lowered Corteva to a positive rating in a research report on Wednesday, March 8th. Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft lowered their price objective on Corteva from $75.00 to $68.00 in a research report on Monday, May 8th. Vertical Research upgraded Corteva from a hold rating to a buy rating and set a $67.00 price objective on the stock in a research report on Monday, May 22nd. Finally, Oppenheimer assumed coverage on Corteva in a research report on Thursday, April 6th. They issued a market perform rating on the stock. Four research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and fifteen have issued a buy rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat, Corteva has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $72.59.

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Corteva Trading Down 0.7 %

Corteva stock opened at $57.30 on Wednesday. The stock has a 50-day moving average price of $57.40 and a 200 day moving average price of $59.67. The company has a market capitalization of $40.73 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 35.37, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 1.28 and a beta of 0.79. Corteva has a 52 week low of $50.03 and a 52 week high of $68.43. The company has a quick ratio of 0.89, a current ratio of 1.39 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.05.

Corteva Announces Dividend

Corteva ( NYSE:CTVA Free Report ) last issued its earnings results on Wednesday, May 3rd. The company reported $1.16 EPS for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $0.93 by $0.23. The firm had revenue of $4.88 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $4.74 billion. Corteva had a return on equity of 8.03% and a net margin of 6.64%. Cortevas revenue for the quarter was up 6.2% on a year-over-year basis. During the same quarter in the prior year, the firm earned $0.97 earnings per share. Sell-side analysts anticipate that Corteva will post 2.98 EPS for the current year.

The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Thursday, June 15th. Investors of record on Thursday, June 1st were paid a $0.15 dividend. This represents a $0.60 annualized dividend and a yield of 1.05%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Wednesday, May 31st. Cortevas dividend payout ratio is currently 37.04%.

Institutional Trading of Corteva

A number of hedge funds and other institutional investors have recently modified their holdings of the stock. Kingsview Wealth Management LLC increased its stake in shares of Corteva by 2.0% in the 3rd quarter. Kingsview Wealth Management LLC now owns 7,660 shares of the companys stock worth $438,000 after acquiring an additional 153 shares during the last quarter. Great Valley Advisor Group Inc. increased its stake in shares of Corteva by 3.5% in the 4th quarter. Great Valley Advisor Group Inc. now owns 4,710 shares of the companys stock worth $276,000 after acquiring an additional 158 shares during the last quarter. Strong Tower Advisory Services increased its stake in shares of Corteva by 1.4% in the 1st quarter. Strong Tower Advisory Services now owns 12,154 shares of the companys stock worth $733,000 after acquiring an additional 168 shares during the last quarter. First Manhattan Co. increased its stake in shares of Corteva by 0.3% in the 3rd quarter. First Manhattan Co. now owns 51,296 shares of the companys stock worth $2,931,000 after acquiring an additional 170 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Centaurus Financial Inc. increased its stake in shares of Corteva by 4.9% in the 3rd quarter. Centaurus Financial Inc. now owns 3,699 shares of the companys stock worth $211,000 after acquiring an additional 174 shares during the last quarter. 80.63% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

Corteva Company Profile

(Free Report)

Corteva, Inc operates in the agriculture business. It operates through two segments, Seed and Crop Protection. The Seed segment develops and supplies advanced germplasm and traits that produce optimum yield for farms. It offers trait technologies that enhance resistance to weather, disease, insects, and herbicides used to control weeds, as well as food and nutritional characteristics.

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u-blox (OTCMKTS:UBLXF  Free Report) is one of 67 publicly-traded companies in the Communication Equipment industry, but how does it weigh in compared to its competitors? We will compare u-blox to related companies based on the strength of its earnings, risk, institutional ownership, profitability, valuation, analyst recommendations and dividends.

Earnings & Valuation

This table compares u-blox and its competitors revenue, earnings per share and valuation.

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Gross Revenue Net Income Price/Earnings Ratio u-blox N/A N/A 31.08 u-blox Competitors $160.33 million -$8.30 million 145.24

u-bloxs competitors have higher revenue, but lower earnings than u-blox. u-blox is trading at a lower price-to-earnings ratio than its competitors, indicating that it is currently more affordable than other companies in its industry.

Dividends

Institutional and Insider Ownership

u-blox pays an annual dividend of $1.30 per share and has a dividend yield of 1.0%. u-blox pays out 32.6% of its earnings in the form of a dividend. As a group, Communication Equipment companies pay a dividend yield of 0.6% and pay out 15.8% of their earnings in the form of a dividend.

32.3% of u-blox shares are owned by institutional investors. Comparatively, 19.4% of shares of all Communication Equipment companies are owned by institutional investors. 29.7% of shares of all Communication Equipment companies are owned by insiders. Strong institutional ownership is an indication that endowments, hedge funds and large money managers believe a company will outperform the market over the long term.

Analyst Recommendations

This is a breakdown of recent ratings and target prices for u-blox and its competitors, as provided by MarketBeat.com.

Sell Ratings Hold Ratings Buy Ratings Strong Buy Ratings Rating Score u-blox 1 0 1 0 2.00 u-blox Competitors 62 500 946 6 2.59

u-blox presently has a consensus price target of $132.50, suggesting a potential upside of 6.85%. As a group, Communication Equipment companies have a potential upside of 269.20%. Given u-bloxs competitors stronger consensus rating and higher probable upside, analysts plainly believe u-blox has less favorable growth aspects than its competitors.

Profitability

This table compares u-blox and its competitors net margins, return on equity and return on assets.

Net Margins Return on Equity Return on Assets u-blox N/A N/A N/A u-blox Competitors -18.20% -42.06% -6.17%

Summary

u-blox competitors beat u-blox on 8 of the 13 factors compared.

u-blox Company Profile

(Free Report)

u-blox Holding AG develops, manufactures, and markets products and services supporting GPS/GNSS satellite positioning systems for the automotive, industrial, and consumer markets worldwide. It operates in two segments, Positioning and Wireless Products, and Wireless Services. The Positioning and Wireless Products segment develops and sells chips and modules designed for positioning and wireless connectivity. The Wireless Services segment offers wireless communication technology services in terms of reference designs and software. In addition, it offers a range of GPS/GNSS positioning products, including satellite receiver chips and chipsets, receiver modules, receiver boards, antennas, and smart antennas, which are in used for navigation, automatic vehicle location, security, traffic control, location-based services, timing, and agriculture. u-blox Holding AG was founded in 1997 and is based in Thalwil, Switzerland.

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The heavy rain that fell in Lincoln the past three days couldnt have come at a better time.

The latest Drought Monitor released Thursday by the University of Nebraska-Lincoln showed that drought in Lancaster County worsened significantly, with exceptional drought, the worst category, now covering 88% of the county. Thats up from about 52% a week ago. The other 12% of the county is in extreme drought. Those are the worst conditions recorded in the 23-year history of the Drought Monitor.

The drought conditions have prompted voluntary water restrictions in Lincoln and mandatory ones in Waverly and rural areas of the county.

In Waverly, Mayor Bill Gerdes on Wednesday declared a water emergency in the city, limiting outdoor watering to three days a week, with days determined by residents addresses.

The aquifer that supplies water to the city wells has been impacted by the worst drought in recorded history since 1936, the city said in a notice on its website. Water levels are dropping, and it is imperative all water consumers in the city practice water-saving measures.

Statewide, extreme drought has expanded to now cover more than a quarter of the state, while exceptional drought covers about 13% of the state.

Those percentages are up only slightly from a week ago, but since the most intense drought conditions are concentrated in the eastern third of the state, there was significant worsening in several counties besides Lancaster.

For example, 80% of Saunders County is now in exceptional drought, up from 45% a week ago.

A week ago, there was no exceptional drought in Cass, Douglas, Otoe or Sarpy counties, but it has now crept into all four, with Cass County in the worst shape, at 34%.

Even with the heavy rain to end the month of June, Lincoln still has a steep precipitation deficit. The first half of the year was the driest since 1989 and year-to-date precipitation remains nearly half a foot below normal.

Thats on top of 2022 precipitation totals that came in more than 9 inches below average.

Taylor Nicolaisen, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service office in Valley, said that while the recent rain is welcome, its not likely to make much of a dent in local drought conditions.

My best guess is that it might improve it by one category, said Nicolaisen, who is considered one of the offices drought experts.

But he also said the rain might simply stop the drought from getting worse for now.

As of Saturday afternoon, Lincoln had received more than 2.9 inches of rain since Thursday.

While nearly 3 inches of rain over three days sounds like a lot, the city normally averages about an inch a week during the summer, and its going to need significantly more than that to alleviate drought conditions.

Thats what happened in southwest Nebraska, which had been mired in a severe drought for well over a year.

Then came heavy rains in May that caused severe flooding in some places but also eliminated extreme and exceptional drought conditions and in some spots eliminated the drought altogether.

Rain totals for the month included nearly 11 inches in McCook, more than 10.5 inches in Culbertson, more than 8 inches in Imperial and 7.5 inches in North Platte. Those were in many cases double or even triple the monthly average for those cities and towns.

Those types of heavy rains in the western part of the state combined with heavy snowmelt from the mountains in Colorado and Wyoming mean the Platte and other rivers are running high and in good shape, Nicolaisen said.

The rivers are doing fine, its just the soil thats in trouble, he said.

Thats a big reason Lincoln and other drought-stricken areas of Nebraska could benefit from sustained rains over a long period, rather than short-lived thunderstorms that dump a bunch of rain over a short period, most of which runs off, Nicolaisen said.

The good news is that more rain may be on tap.

Both short- and long-term forecasts show a possible wetter-than-normal pattern for much of Nebraska, which Nicolaisen said is fantastic.

We havent seen that for quite awhile, he said.

States with the most severe summer weather States with the most severe summer weather #51. Delaware #50. Oregon #49. Rhode Island #48. Alabama #47. Washington DC #46. South Carolina #45. New Jersey #44. Georgia #43. Maine #42. Florida #41. Hawaii #40. Maryland #39. Pennsylvania #38. Massachusetts #37. New York #36. Kentucky #35. Indiana #34. Arkansas #33. Virginia #32. Connecticut #31. Idaho #30. Ohio #29. Oklahoma #28. Montana #27. Kansas #26. Mississippi #25. New Hampshire #24. Nevada #23. Arizona #22. Minnesota #21. North Carolina #20. Illinois #19. New Mexico #18. Utah #17. Tennessee #16. Missouri #15. Alaska #14. California #13. Vermont #12. Washington #11. Wisconsin #10. Wyoming #9. West Virginia #8. South Dakota #7. Iowa #6. Nebraska #5. Colorado #4. North Dakota #3. Michigan #2. Texas #1. Louisiana
Foster Victor Wealth Advisors LLC lifted its holdings in shares of Halliburton (NYSE:HAL  Free Report) by 10.8% during the 1st quarter, according to the company in its most recent filing with the SEC. The fund owned 215,407 shares of the oilfield services companys stock after purchasing an additional 21,016 shares during the period. Foster Victor Wealth Advisors LLCs holdings in Halliburton were worth $7,158,000 as of its most recent filing with the SEC.

Several other institutional investors and hedge funds also recently made changes to their positions in HAL. State Street Corp boosted its position in Halliburton by 2.1% during the 3rd quarter. State Street Corp now owns 59,383,523 shares of the oilfield services companys stock valued at $1,462,022,000 after buying an additional 1,241,290 shares during the period. Geode Capital Management LLC boosted its position in Halliburton by 1.1% during the 4th quarter. Geode Capital Management LLC now owns 18,419,615 shares of the oilfield services companys stock valued at $723,486,000 after buying an additional 198,925 shares during the period. Morgan Stanley boosted its position in Halliburton by 65.5% during the 4th quarter. Morgan Stanley now owns 17,217,776 shares of the oilfield services companys stock valued at $677,520,000 after buying an additional 6,815,373 shares during the period. DZ BANK AG Deutsche Zentral Genossenschafts Bank Frankfurt am Main boosted its position in Halliburton by 123.0% during the 4th quarter. DZ BANK AG Deutsche Zentral Genossenschafts Bank Frankfurt am Main now owns 15,936,342 shares of the oilfield services companys stock valued at $627,088,000 after buying an additional 8,791,319 shares during the period. Finally, Boston Partners boosted its position in Halliburton by 24.6% during the 4th quarter. Boston Partners now owns 12,400,246 shares of the oilfield services companys stock valued at $488,254,000 after buying an additional 2,448,913 shares during the period. Institutional investors own 84.79% of the companys stock.

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Halliburton Stock Down 0.6 %

NYSE:HAL opened at $32.99 on Friday. The firm has a market cap of $29.76 billion, a P/E ratio of 15.27, a P/E/G ratio of 0.42 and a beta of 2.13. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.94, a quick ratio of 1.54 and a current ratio of 2.14. Halliburton has a fifty-two week low of $23.30 and a fifty-two week high of $43.42. The firm has a 50-day simple moving average of $31.04 and a two-hundred day simple moving average of $34.70.

Halliburton Announces Dividend

Halliburton ( NYSE:HAL Free Report ) last released its quarterly earnings data on Tuesday, April 25th. The oilfield services company reported $0.72 earnings per share for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $0.67 by $0.05. The business had revenue of $5.68 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $5.49 billion. Halliburton had a net margin of 9.04% and a return on equity of 29.38%. Halliburtons revenue was up 32.5% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period last year, the business earned $0.35 EPS. Analysts predict that Halliburton will post 3.11 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

The business also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Wednesday, June 28th. Stockholders of record on Wednesday, June 7th were paid a $0.16 dividend. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Tuesday, June 6th. This represents a $0.64 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 1.94%. Halliburtons dividend payout ratio is presently 29.63%.

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

Several brokerages have weighed in on HAL. Citigroup dropped their price target on shares of Halliburton from $47.00 to $44.00 and set a buy rating for the company in a research report on Wednesday, March 22nd. Susquehanna dropped their target price on shares of Halliburton from $57.00 to $45.00 in a research report on Monday, April 3rd. Benchmark reaffirmed a buy rating and issued a $50.00 target price on shares of Halliburton in a research report on Monday, April 3rd. Capital One Financial initiated coverage on shares of Halliburton in a research report on Wednesday, June 7th. They issued an overweight rating and a $41.00 target price for the company. Finally, UBS Group initiated coverage on shares of Halliburton in a research report on Wednesday, April 19th. They issued a buy rating and a $49.00 target price for the company. One analyst has rated the stock with a hold rating, fourteen have issued a buy rating and one has given a strong buy rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the company presently has a consensus rating of Buy and a consensus price target of $47.83.

Insider Transactions at Halliburton

In other news, CAO Charles Jr. Geer sold 12,065 shares of Halliburton stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, May 8th. The shares were sold at an average price of $30.60, for a total value of $369,189.00. Following the completion of the sale, the chief accounting officer now directly owns 52,817 shares in the company, valued at $1,616,200.20. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through this hyperlink. In related news, CEO Jeffrey Allen Miller sold 271,283 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, May 8th. The shares were sold at an average price of $30.25, for a total value of $8,206,310.75. Following the transaction, the chief executive officer now owns 829,230 shares of the companys stock, valued at $25,084,207.50. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is accessible through this link. Also, CAO Charles Jr. Geer sold 12,065 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, May 8th. The stock was sold at an average price of $30.60, for a total transaction of $369,189.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the chief accounting officer now directly owns 52,817 shares in the company, valued at approximately $1,616,200.20. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Company insiders own 0.60% of the companys stock.

Halliburton Profile

(Free Report)

Halliburton Company provides products and services to the energy industry worldwide. It operates in two segments, Completion and Production, and Drilling and Evaluation. The Completion and Production segment offers production enhancement services that include stimulation and sand control services; cementing services, such as well bonding and casing, and casing equipment; completion tools that offer downhole solutions and services, including well completion products and services, intelligent well completions, and service tools, as well as liner hanger, sand control, and multilateral systems; production solutions comprising coiled tubing, hydraulic workover units, downhole tools, and pumping and nitrogen services; and pipeline and process services, such as pre-commissioning, commissioning, maintenance, and decommissioning.

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Bank of Queensland Limited (ASX:BOQ  Free Report) insider Deborah Kiers purchased 6,309 shares of the stock in a transaction on Thursday, June 22nd. The shares were purchased at an average cost of A$5.56 ($3.71) per share, with a total value of A$35,078.04 ($23,385.36).

Bank of Queensland Price Performance

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Bank of Queensland Cuts Dividend

The company also recently declared a Interim dividend, which was paid on Wednesday, May 31st. Shareholders of record on Wednesday, May 31st were given a dividend of $0.20 per share. This represents a yield of 3.31%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Tuesday, May 9th. Bank of Queenslands dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 133.33%.

Bank of Queensland Company Profile

(Free Report)

Further Reading

Bank of Queensland Limited, together with its subsidiaries, provides various financial products and services in Australia. The company operates in Retail Banking, BOQ Business, and Other segments. It offers personal banking services comprises savings and term deposits, and transactional accounts; debit and credit cards; home, personal, and car loans; and travel, home and content, landlord, and car insurance, as well as investment services comprising online share trading services, and self-managed superannuation funds.

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L3Harris Technologies, Inc. (NYSE:LHX  Free Report) has received an average recommendation of Hold from the fourteen research firms that are presently covering the firm, MarketBeat Ratings reports. Eight analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and six have issued a buy rating on the company. The average 1-year price target among analysts that have issued a report on the stock in the last year is $250.00.

A number of research analysts recently weighed in on the company. Robert W. Baird dropped their price objective on L3Harris Technologies from $241.00 to $222.00 in a report on Monday, May 1st. StockNews.com initiated coverage on L3Harris Technologies in a report on Thursday, May 18th. They issued a buy rating on the stock. Finally, Credit Suisse Group lowered their target price on L3Harris Technologies from $240.00 to $234.00 in a report on Monday, May 1st.

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L3Harris Technologies Price Performance

L3Harris Technologies stock opened at $195.77 on Friday. L3Harris Technologies has a 12 month low of $174.55 and a 12 month high of $255.10. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.45, a current ratio of 1.14 and a quick ratio of 0.89. The business has a 50 day simple moving average of $188.60 and a 200-day simple moving average of $198.86. The stock has a market capitalization of $37.09 billion, a PE ratio of 40.87, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 6.17 and a beta of 0.71.

L3Harris Technologies Announces Dividend

L3Harris Technologies ( NYSE:LHX Free Report ) last announced its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, April 27th. The company reported $2.86 earnings per share for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of $2.87 by ($0.01). L3Harris Technologies had a return on equity of 13.03% and a net margin of 5.30%. The business had revenue of $4.47 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $4.26 billion. During the same period in the prior year, the company earned $3.12 EPS. The companys revenue was up 9.0% on a year-over-year basis. Equities analysts predict that L3Harris Technologies will post 12.28 earnings per share for the current year.

The firm also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, June 16th. Investors of record on Friday, June 2nd were given a dividend of $1.14 per share. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Thursday, June 1st. This represents a $4.56 annualized dividend and a yield of 2.33%. L3Harris Technologiess dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 95.20%.

Hedge Funds Weigh In On L3Harris Technologies

Several large investors have recently added to or reduced their stakes in the business. Vanguard Group Inc. lifted its position in L3Harris Technologies by 1.8% during the third quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 17,282,623 shares of the companys stock worth $3,591,848,000 after buying an additional 302,279 shares during the period. BlackRock Inc. raised its holdings in shares of L3Harris Technologies by 3.2% in the 1st quarter. BlackRock Inc. now owns 15,499,913 shares of the companys stock worth $3,041,703,000 after purchasing an additional 480,610 shares during the period. Price T Rowe Associates Inc. MD raised its holdings in shares of L3Harris Technologies by 6.2% in the 4th quarter. Price T Rowe Associates Inc. MD now owns 10,364,874 shares of the companys stock worth $2,158,070,000 after purchasing an additional 606,598 shares during the period. State Street Corp raised its holdings in shares of L3Harris Technologies by 4.1% in the 1st quarter. State Street Corp now owns 8,691,190 shares of the companys stock worth $1,705,558,000 after purchasing an additional 339,806 shares during the period. Finally, Wells Fargo & Company MN raised its holdings in shares of L3Harris Technologies by 0.5% in the 4th quarter. Wells Fargo & Company MN now owns 5,043,774 shares of the companys stock worth $1,050,164,000 after purchasing an additional 24,661 shares during the period. 80.66% of the stock is currently owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

About L3Harris Technologies

(Free Report

L3Harris Technologies, Inc, an aerospace and defense technology company, provides mission-critical solutions for government and commercial customers worldwide. The company's Integrated Mission Systems segment provides multi-mission intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) systems; and communication systems, as well as fleet management support, sensor development, modification, and periodic depot maintenance services for ISR and airborne missions.

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Morgan Stanley Emerging Markets Domestic Debt Fund, Inc. (NYSE:EDD  Free Report) was the target of a large increase in short interest in the month of June. As of June 15th, there was short interest totalling 157,600 shares, an increase of 87.0% from the May 31st total of 84,300 shares. Based on an average trading volume of 194,300 shares, the short-interest ratio is presently 0.8 days.

Morgan Stanley Emerging Markets Domestic Debt Fund Stock Down 0.2 %

Shares of EDD stock traded down $0.01 during trading hours on Friday, reaching $4.69. The stock had a trading volume of 192,431 shares, compared to its average volume of 176,030. Morgan Stanley Emerging Markets Domestic Debt Fund has a twelve month low of $3.84 and a twelve month high of $4.89. The firm has a 50-day simple moving average of $4.74 and a 200-day simple moving average of $4.60.

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Morgan Stanley Emerging Markets Domestic Debt Fund Cuts Dividend

The business also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, July 14th. Shareholders of record on Friday, June 30th will be paid a dividend of $0.08 per share. The ex-dividend date is Thursday, June 29th. This represents a $0.32 annualized dividend and a yield of 6.82%.

Hedge Funds Weigh In On Morgan Stanley Emerging Markets Domestic Debt Fund

About Morgan Stanley Emerging Markets Domestic Debt Fund

Several large investors have recently bought and sold shares of EDD. JTC Employer Solutions Trustee Ltd acquired a new position in Morgan Stanley Emerging Markets Domestic Debt Fund during the 4th quarter valued at about $44,000. Elequin Securities LLC bought a new position in shares of Morgan Stanley Emerging Markets Domestic Debt Fund during the 4th quarter valued at about $46,000. Cambridge Investment Research Advisors Inc. bought a new position in shares of Morgan Stanley Emerging Markets Domestic Debt Fund during the 4th quarter valued at about $48,000. Virtu Financial LLC bought a new position in shares of Morgan Stanley Emerging Markets Domestic Debt Fund during the 1st quarter valued at about $52,000. Finally, HRT Financial LP bought a new position in shares of Morgan Stanley Emerging Markets Domestic Debt Fund during the 1st quarter valued at about $58,000.

(Free Report)

Morgan Stanley Emerging Markets Domestic Debt Fund, Inc is a closed ended fixed income mutual fund launched and managed by Morgan Stanley Investment Management Inc The fund invests in fixed income markets of emerging market countries across the globe. It typically invests in government bonds denominated in the local currencies of emerging markets.

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Nuveen New Jersey Quality Municipal Income Fund (NYSE:NXJ  Free Report) was the recipient of a significant decrease in short interest in the month of June. As of June 15th, there was short interest totalling 29,400 shares, a decrease of 58.5% from the May 31st total of 70,900 shares. Based on an average trading volume of 66,900 shares, the short-interest ratio is presently 0.4 days.

Institutional Trading of Nuveen New Jersey Quality Municipal Income Fund

Several large investors have recently added to or reduced their stakes in NXJ. Raymond James Financial Services Advisors Inc. grew its stake in shares of Nuveen New Jersey Quality Municipal Income Fund by 0.7% during the first quarter. Raymond James Financial Services Advisors Inc. now owns 126,873 shares of the companys stock valued at $1,698,000 after purchasing an additional 913 shares during the last quarter. Smallwood Wealth Investment Management LLC grew its stake in shares of Nuveen New Jersey Quality Municipal Income Fund by 6.9% during the first quarter. Smallwood Wealth Investment Management LLC now owns 15,490 shares of the companys stock valued at $181,000 after purchasing an additional 1,000 shares during the last quarter. Janney Montgomery Scott LLC grew its stake in shares of Nuveen New Jersey Quality Municipal Income Fund by 9.2% during the first quarter. Janney Montgomery Scott LLC now owns 12,745 shares of the companys stock valued at $149,000 after purchasing an additional 1,077 shares during the last quarter. Prospera Financial Services Inc grew its stake in shares of Nuveen New Jersey Quality Municipal Income Fund by 3.9% during the first quarter. Prospera Financial Services Inc now owns 30,712 shares of the companys stock valued at $360,000 after purchasing an additional 1,161 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Guggenheim Capital LLC grew its stake in shares of Nuveen New Jersey Quality Municipal Income Fund by 20.6% during the first quarter. Guggenheim Capital LLC now owns 13,386 shares of the companys stock valued at $179,000 after purchasing an additional 2,287 shares during the last quarter.

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Nuveen New Jersey Quality Municipal Income Fund Price Performance

Nuveen New Jersey Quality Municipal Income Fund stock traded up $0.07 during trading hours on Friday, hitting $11.47. 28,921 shares of the stock were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 73,936. Nuveen New Jersey Quality Municipal Income Fund has a 12 month low of $10.52 and a 12 month high of $13.24. The businesss 50-day moving average is $11.45 and its two-hundred day moving average is $11.57.

Nuveen New Jersey Quality Municipal Income Fund Cuts Dividend

About Nuveen New Jersey Quality Municipal Income Fund

The company also recently disclosed a monthly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, July 3rd. Shareholders of record on Thursday, June 15th will be paid a dividend of $0.0305 per share. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Wednesday, June 14th. This represents a $0.37 annualized dividend and a yield of 3.19%.

(Free Report)

Nuveen New Jersey Quality Municipal Income Fund is a closed ended fixed income mutual fund launched by Nuveen Investments, Inc The fund is co-managed by Nuveen Fund Advisors LLC and Nuveen Asset Management, LLC. It invests in the fixed income markets of New Jersey. The fund invests in undervalued municipal securities and other related investments that are, exempt from regular federal and New Jersey income taxes that are rated Baa or BBB or better.

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Philip Morris International Inc. (NYSE:PM  Free Report) has been assigned a consensus recommendation of Moderate Buy from the ten research firms that are currently covering the company, MarketBeat.com reports. One research analyst has rated the stock with a sell recommendation, one has given a hold recommendation and eight have given a buy recommendation to the company. The average 12-month price objective among brokers that have issued ratings on the stock in the last year is $111.40.

PM has been the subject of several recent research reports. Stifel Nicolaus initiated coverage on shares of Philip Morris International in a research report on Thursday, April 13th. They issued a buy rating and a $114.00 price objective for the company. StockNews.com initiated coverage on shares of Philip Morris International in a research report on Thursday, May 18th. They issued a hold rating for the company. Citigroup raised shares of Philip Morris International from a neutral rating to a buy rating and increased their price objective for the company from $109.00 to $117.00 in a research report on Tuesday, June 20th. Finally, JPMorgan Chase & Co. raised shares of Philip Morris International from a neutral rating to an overweight rating and increased their price objective for the company from $109.00 to $116.00 in a research report on Thursday, March 30th.

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Philip Morris International Stock Performance

PM opened at $97.62 on Tuesday. The firm has a 50 day moving average price of $94.48 and a 200 day moving average price of $97.96. The company has a market cap of $151.53 billion, a PE ratio of 17.46, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 2.48 and a beta of 0.68. Philip Morris International has a 1 year low of $82.85 and a 1 year high of $105.62.

Philip Morris International Dividend Announcement

Philip Morris International ( NYSE:PM Free Report ) last posted its earnings results on Thursday, April 20th. The company reported $1.38 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $1.34 by $0.04. The firm had revenue of $8.10 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $8.03 billion. Philip Morris International had a net margin of 10.80% and a negative return on equity of 128.55%. The companys revenue was up 4.6% on a year-over-year basis. During the same quarter in the prior year, the company earned $1.56 EPS. On average, sell-side analysts predict that Philip Morris International will post 6.19 earnings per share for the current year.

The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Tuesday, July 11th. Investors of record on Friday, June 23rd will be paid a dividend of $1.27 per share. This represents a $5.08 annualized dividend and a yield of 5.20%. The ex-dividend date is Thursday, June 22nd. Philip Morris Internationals dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 90.88%.

Hedge Funds Weigh In On Philip Morris International

Several large investors have recently added to or reduced their stakes in the company. Duality Advisers LP bought a new position in Philip Morris International during the first quarter worth $2,171,000. Psagot Value Holdings Ltd. Israel lifted its stake in Philip Morris International by 66.7% in the first quarter. Psagot Value Holdings Ltd. Israel now owns 5,000 shares of the companys stock valued at $479,000 after buying an additional 2,000 shares during the last quarter. Sweeney & Michel LLC bought a new stake in Philip Morris International in the first quarter valued at $309,000. Atomi Financial Group Inc. bought a new stake in Philip Morris International in the first quarter valued at $900,000. Finally, EP Wealth Advisors LLC bought a new stake in Philip Morris International in the first quarter valued at $98,000. 77.43% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors.

About Philip Morris International

(Free Report

Philip Morris International Inc operates as a tobacco company working to delivers a smoke-free future and evolving portfolio for the long-term to include products outside of the tobacco and nicotine sector. The company's product portfolio primarily consists of cigarettes and smoke-free products, including heat-not-burn, vapor, and oral nicotine products that are sold in markets outside the United States.

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SimCorp A/S (OTCMKTS:SICRF  Free Report) is one of 288 public companies in the SoftwareApplication industry, but how does it weigh in compared to its rivals? We will compare SimCorp A/S to related companies based on the strength of its analyst recommendations, valuation, risk, profitability, earnings, institutional ownership and dividends.

Insider and Institutional Ownership

41.9% of SimCorp A/S shares are held by institutional investors. Comparatively, 32.3% of shares of all SoftwareApplication companies are held by institutional investors. 30.2% of shares of all SoftwareApplication companies are held by insiders. Strong institutional ownership is an indication that endowments, hedge funds and large money managers believe a stock is poised for long-term growth.

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Profitability

This table compares SimCorp A/S and its rivals net margins, return on equity and return on assets.

Net Margins Return on Equity Return on Assets SimCorp A/S N/A N/A N/A SimCorp A/S Competitors -40.43% -252.99% -8.66%

Dividends

Valuation & Earnings

SimCorp A/S pays an annual dividend of $0.54 per share and has a dividend yield of 0.5%. SimCorp A/S pays out 59.2% of its earnings in the form of a dividend. As a group, SoftwareApplication companies pay a dividend yield of 1.8% and pay out 70.8% of their earnings in the form of a dividend.

This table compares SimCorp A/S and its rivals gross revenue, earnings per share (EPS) and valuation.

Gross Revenue Net Income Price/Earnings Ratio SimCorp A/S N/A N/A 116.15 SimCorp A/S Competitors $423.37 million -$10.94 million 598.74

SimCorp A/Ss rivals have higher revenue, but lower earnings than SimCorp A/S. SimCorp A/S is trading at a lower price-to-earnings ratio than its rivals, indicating that it is currently more affordable than other companies in its industry.

Analyst Recommendations

This is a breakdown of recent ratings and target prices for SimCorp A/S and its rivals, as provided by MarketBeat.

Sell Ratings Hold Ratings Buy Ratings Strong Buy Ratings Rating Score SimCorp A/S 0 2 0 0 2.00 SimCorp A/S Competitors 406 1565 3296 18 2.55

As a group, SoftwareApplication companies have a potential upside of 29.27%. Given SimCorp A/Ss rivals stronger consensus rating and higher possible upside, analysts plainly believe SimCorp A/S has less favorable growth aspects than its rivals.

Summary

SimCorp A/S rivals beat SimCorp A/S on 8 of the 13 factors compared.

SimCorp A/S Company Profile

(Free Report)

SimCorp A/S, together with its subsidiaries, provides investment management solutions for asset management, fund management, insurance, life/pension, central banks, asset servicing, treasury, sovereign wealth, and wealth management companies. It provides investment management services, including portfolio management and trading, compliance management, performance and risk management, investment operations, investment accounting, fund administration, multi asset investments, alternative investments, investment book of record, and data warehouse and business intelligence, as well as environmental, social, and corporate governance (ESG) investments. The company also offers data management, corporate actions, ESG data management, market data management, and security master services; and client communications, such as client reporting and sales enablement, and digital engagement platform. It has operations in North America, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and the Asia Pacific. The company was founded in 1971 and is headquartered in Copenhagen, Denmark.

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Shares of Rockwell Automation, Inc. (NYSE:ROK  Free Report) have earned a consensus rating of Hold from the sixteen research firms that are currently covering the firm, Marketbeat.com reports. Four investment analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, seven have issued a hold rating and five have given a buy rating to the company. The average 1-year target price among brokers that have issued ratings on the stock in the last year is $275.63.

Several analysts have recently weighed in on ROK shares. Barclays raised their price objective on shares of Rockwell Automation from $250.00 to $262.00 in a report on Friday, April 28th. Mizuho raised their price target on shares of Rockwell Automation from $260.00 to $270.00 in a report on Friday, April 28th. StockNews.com initiated coverage on shares of Rockwell Automation in a report on Thursday, May 18th. They issued a buy rating for the company. Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft raised their price target on shares of Rockwell Automation from $272.00 to $273.00 and gave the company a hold rating in a report on Wednesday, April 12th. Finally, Jefferies Financial Group initiated coverage on shares of Rockwell Automation in a report on Tuesday, June 27th. They issued a hold rating and a $335.00 price target for the company.

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Insider Transactions at Rockwell Automation

In other news, VP John M. Miller sold 556 shares of Rockwell Automation stock in a transaction on Tuesday, May 2nd. The shares were sold at an average price of $279.09, for a total transaction of $155,174.04. Following the transaction, the vice president now directly owns 4,281 shares of the companys stock, valued at $1,194,784.29. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is available at the SEC website. In related news, SVP Frank C. Kulaszewicz sold 7,729 shares of the companys stock in a transaction on Tuesday, June 13th. The shares were sold at an average price of $310.00, for a total value of $2,395,990.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the senior vice president now directly owns 13,660 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $4,234,600. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which is available through the SEC website. Also, VP John M. Miller sold 556 shares of the companys stock in a transaction on Tuesday, May 2nd. The stock was sold at an average price of $279.09, for a total transaction of $155,174.04. Following the completion of the transaction, the vice president now directly owns 4,281 shares of the companys stock, valued at $1,194,784.29. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Insiders have sold a total of 15,217 shares of company stock valued at $4,687,705 over the last three months. 0.64% of the stock is currently owned by corporate insiders.

Hedge Funds Weigh In On Rockwell Automation

Rockwell Automation Stock Performance

Institutional investors and hedge funds have recently added to or reduced their stakes in the stock. Aspire Private Capital LLC acquired a new position in Rockwell Automation in the 1st quarter worth $11,444,550,000. New Hampshire Trust acquired a new position in Rockwell Automation in the 4th quarter worth $26,000. MinichMacGregor Wealth Management LLC bought a new stake in Rockwell Automation during the 4th quarter worth about $27,000. Clear Street Markets LLC bought a new stake in Rockwell Automation during the 4th quarter worth about $30,000. Finally, Delta Asset Management LLC TN bought a new stake in Rockwell Automation during the 4th quarter worth about $32,000. 79.28% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

NYSE ROK opened at $329.45 on Friday. The firm has a market cap of $37.85 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 29.00, a PEG ratio of 2.38 and a beta of 1.42. The company has a 50 day moving average of $292.40 and a 200-day moving average of $283.86. The company has a current ratio of 1.08, a quick ratio of 0.73 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.83. Rockwell Automation has a 1-year low of $192.90 and a 1-year high of $331.40.

Rockwell Automation (NYSE:ROK  Free Report) last posted its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, April 27th. The industrial products company reported $3.01 earnings per share for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $2.60 by $0.41. The company had revenue of $2.28 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $2.09 billion. Rockwell Automation had a net margin of 15.82% and a return on equity of 42.15%. The companys revenue was up 25.8% on a year-over-year basis. During the same quarter last year, the business posted $1.66 earnings per share. On average, equities analysts forecast that Rockwell Automation will post 12.04 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

Rockwell Automation Announces Dividend

The company also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, September 11th. Stockholders of record on Monday, August 14th will be given a dividend of $1.18 per share. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Friday, August 11th. This represents a $4.72 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 1.43%. Rockwell Automations dividend payout ratio is 41.55%.

Rockwell Automation Company Profile

(Free Report

Rockwell Automation, Inc provides industrial automation and digital transformation solutions in North America, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, the Asia Pacific, and Latin America. The company operates through three segments, Intelligent Devices, Software & Control, and Lifecycle Services. Its solutions include hardware and software products and services.

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Guangdong Investment Limited (OTCMKTS:GGDVY  Free Report) saw a significant increase in short interest in the month of June. As of June 15th, there was short interest totalling 2,600 shares, an increase of 85.7% from the May 31st total of 1,400 shares. Based on an average trading volume of 2,500 shares, the days-to-cover ratio is presently 1.0 days.

Guangdong Investment Stock Performance

Shares of GGDVY remained flat at $43.09 during midday trading on Friday. 313 shares of the stock traded hands, compared to its average volume of 1,941. Guangdong Investment has a 52 week low of $31.78 and a 52 week high of $58.03. The companys fifty day simple moving average is $45.70 and its 200 day simple moving average is $49.96.

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Guangdong Investment Increases Dividend

The business also recently disclosed a dividend, which will be paid on Friday, August 11th. Investors of record on Tuesday, June 27th will be issued a $2.6647 dividend. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Monday, June 26th. This represents a yield of 8.53%. This is an increase from Guangdong Investments previous dividend of $1.14. Guangdong Investments dividend payout ratio is presently 30.15%.

Guangdong Investment Company Profile

Guangdong Investment Limited, an investment holding company, engages in water resources, property investment and development, department store operation, hotel ownership, energy project operation and management, and road and bridge operation businesses. The company's Water Resources segment provides water distribution, sewage treatment, water pipeline installation and consultancy services, constructs water supply and sewage treatment infrastructure, and sells machineries in Mainland China and Hong Kong.

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Orient Overseas (International) Limited (OTCMKTS:OROVY  Free Report) was the recipient of a large growth in short interest during the month of June. As of June 15th, there was short interest totalling 700 shares, a growth of 75.0% from the May 31st total of 400 shares. Based on an average trading volume of 1,500 shares, the days-to-cover ratio is presently 0.5 days.

Orient Overseas (International) Trading Up 2.6 %

OTCMKTS OROVY traded up $1.72 during trading hours on Friday, reaching $67.32. 366 shares of the company traded hands, compared to its average volume of 640. Orient Overseas has a 12 month low of $60.79 and a 12 month high of $175.00. The company has a 50 day moving average of $80.40 and a two-hundred day moving average of $86.04.

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Orient Overseas (International) Increases Dividend

The business also recently disclosed a dividend, which will be paid on Friday, July 14th. Shareholders of record on Thursday, May 25th will be paid a dividend of $22.75 per share. This represents a yield of 52.77%. This is an increase from Orient Overseas (International)s previous dividend of $12.85. The ex-dividend date is Wednesday, May 24th.

Orient Overseas (International) Company Profile

Orient Overseas (International) Limited, an investment holding company, provides container transport and logistics services in Asia, Europe, Australia, and North America. The company offers supply chain management services; and containerised shipping services in various trade lanes comprising Trans-Pacific, Trans-Atlantic, Asia/Europe, Asia/Australia, and Intra-Asia trades.

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Its perhaps not a surprise that, as the Nebraska Territory formed in 1854, some of the first settlers were lawyers. Their number also claimed some interesting names.

Can you imagine discovering opposing counsels names were Champion, Experience or Savage? The first Nebraska attorney was extremely experienced, well qualified and became one of the most important legal figures well into statehood. It is therefore no coincidence that Experience Estabrook was known as the father of Nebraska law.

Experience Estabrook was born in 1813 in Lebanon, New Hampshire. No explanation of his first name has ever come to light. After moving to New York state, he attended Dickinson College in Carlisle, Pennsylvania, then graduated from Marshall Colleges law school in Chambersburg, Pennsylvania, and was admitted to the state bar. While living in Wisconsin, he was elected to the state legislature and became the states attorney general.

After being appointed the first U.S. attorney for the Territory of Nebraska by President Franklin Pierce and confirmed by the U.S. Senate, he set out for Nebraska. Arriving at Council Bluffs, Iowa, on Jan. 21, 1855, he could have crossed the river on the then operating ferry but instead elected to wait until Jan. 23 to cross on the ice. On arrival at Omaha City, he discovered he was the only member of the bar in the entire territory.

A month after his arrival the Nebraska Supreme Court was organized in the Hall of Representatives in the temporary state house at Ninth and Farnam.

As the U.S. attorney, Estabrook was on hand. That summer he brought his family to Omaha City where they took up residence in what would later be their barn. He noted that the roof was of sod on pole supports, had no floor but straw and sat on a slope. During rain storms the roof leaked so badly they had to bail out using a wash tub. Within days, Judge Lake appointed him prosecuting attorney to serve until the first election.

In 1858 the Fifth Territorial Legislature established the Board of Agriculture, which included Estabrook, and led to the first territorial fair, which was held in Nebraska City, Sept. 21-23 of 1859. This proved to be not only the only territorial fair in Nebraska but the only territorial fair ever held in the U.S.

In October of 1858, the election for delegate to the U.S. Congress pitted Democrat Estabrook against Republican Samuel Daily. Estabrook was noted as an attorney, well-educated, cultured and refined while Daily was none of these and his one credential was his popularity in his party.

Estabrook won the election 3,100 to 2,800 and assumed his seat in Congress. Daily however challenged the election, particularly the results from Buffalo County where 292 votes were cast for Estabrook and none for him ... and the county was not yet organized to even hold elections.

Another vote was discarded when there were more votes cast than there were registered voters. Both sides gained and lost and ultimately Estabrook netted 2,671 to Dailys 2,790 and the Republican controlled U. S. House of Representatives gave the seat to Daily almost exactly one year later.

In the interim, Estabrook was instrumental in the first bill for a Pacific railroad charter. The title of general came when he served on the staff of adjutant general John M. Thayer during the campaign against the Pawnee.

Basically, the troops arrived, and the Pawnee surrendered. In 1863 Estabrook was on the committee organizing the groundbreaking for the Union Pacific Railroad and three years later was appointed by the governor to codify Nebraskas laws.

At some early point he was the attorney for the Council Bluffs & Nebraska Ferry Company, originally the Lone Tree Ferry, which was prominent in establishing Omaha City, for which he received the entire city block bounded by 16th, 17th, Chicago, and Cass streets which, in 1893, was valued at a jaw-dropping $300,000.

On March 26, 1894, Experience Estabrook, a man of splendid physique, and father of Nebraska law, died and was buried at Forest Lawn. Estabrook, an eloquent proponent of woman suffrage, a brilliant orator and ... polished writer, who professed eminent domain for the benefit of private corporations was wrong, and who introduced the first bill to abolish slavery in Nebraska, sadly left no street, park, village of county with his name.
TXO Partners L.P. (NYSE:TXO  Free Report) was the target of a significant growth in short interest during the month of June. As of June 15th, there was short interest totalling 11,800 shares, a growth of 131.4% from the May 31st total of 5,100 shares. Currently, 0.1% of the companys stock are short sold. Based on an average daily trading volume, of 23,100 shares, the days-to-cover ratio is presently 0.5 days.

Institutional Trading of TXO Partners

A number of hedge funds have recently bought and sold shares of TXO. Jennison Associates LLC bought a new stake in TXO Partners during the first quarter valued at about $4,379,000. Barclays PLC bought a new position in shares of TXO Partners in the first quarter worth about $5,303,000. Federated Hermes Inc. bought a new position in shares of TXO Partners in the first quarter worth about $601,000. American Century Companies Inc. bought a new position in shares of TXO Partners in the first quarter worth about $1,542,000. Finally, King Luther Capital Management Corp bought a new position in shares of TXO Partners in the first quarter worth about $59,544,000. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 17.68% of the companys stock.

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TXO Partners Trading Up 1.0 %

Shares of TXO stock traded up $0.22 during mid-day trading on Friday, hitting $21.65. The companys stock had a trading volume of 7,800 shares, compared to its average volume of 12,523. TXO Partners has a 52-week low of $20.25 and a 52-week high of $25.00. The business has a 50-day moving average price of $21.34 and a 200 day moving average price of $22.29. The company has a quick ratio of 0.99, a current ratio of 0.99 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.01.

TXO Partners Announces Dividend

TXO Partners ( NYSE:TXO Free Report ) last posted its quarterly earnings results on Tuesday, May 9th. The company reported $0.29 earnings per share for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $0.22 by $0.07. The business had revenue of $158.40 million during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $74.51 million. As a group, equities research analysts forecast that TXO Partners will post 0.89 EPS for the current fiscal year.

The company also recently disclosed a  dividend, which was paid on Tuesday, May 30th. Investors of record on Monday, May 22nd were given a dividend of $0.50 per share. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Friday, May 19th.

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

Separately, Stifel Nicolaus decreased their price target on TXO Partners from $28.00 to $27.00 in a research note on Thursday, May 11th.

About TXO Partners

(Free Report)

TXO Energy Partners, L.P. focuses on the acquisition, development, optimization and exploitation of conventional oil, natural gas, and natural gas liquid reserves in North America. Its acreage positions are concentrated in the Permian Basin of West Texas and New Mexico and the San Juan Basin of New Mexico and Colorado.

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StockNews.com began coverage on shares of Univar Solutions (NYSE:UNVR  Free Report) in a research report released on Wednesday. The brokerage issued a hold rating on the basic materials companys stock.

Several other equities analysts also recently weighed in on the company. Barclays raised their price target on Univar Solutions from $33.00 to $36.00 and gave the stock an equal weight rating in a research report on Tuesday, March 14th. Vertical Research downgraded Univar Solutions from a buy rating to a hold rating in a research report on Tuesday, March 14th. One investment analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, five have given a hold rating and two have assigned a buy rating to the company. According to MarketBeat.com, the company presently has a consensus rating of Hold and an average target price of $35.33.

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Univar Solutions Stock Performance

NYSE UNVR opened at $35.84 on Wednesday. Univar Solutions has a 1-year low of $21.49 and a 1-year high of $35.86. The company has a market capitalization of $5.65 billion, a P/E ratio of 13.27, a PEG ratio of 1.46 and a beta of 1.70. The business has a 50 day moving average price of $35.60 and a 200 day moving average price of $34.44. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.96, a current ratio of 2.18 and a quick ratio of 1.45.

Institutional Inflows and Outflows

Univar Solutions ( NYSE:UNVR Free Report ) last released its quarterly earnings results on Monday, May 8th. The basic materials company reported $0.63 earnings per share for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $0.58 by $0.05. The company had revenue of $2.68 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $2.43 billion. Univar Solutions had a return on equity of 19.05% and a net margin of 3.97%. Univar Solutionss revenue was down 6.9% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same quarter last year, the business posted $1.07 earnings per share. Sell-side analysts expect that Univar Solutions will post 2.96 EPS for the current fiscal year.

Hedge funds and other institutional investors have recently added to or reduced their stakes in the company. Cambridge Investment Research Advisors Inc. acquired a new position in shares of Univar Solutions during the first quarter worth about $229,000. PNC Financial Services Group Inc. lifted its stake in shares of Univar Solutions by 12.3% during the first quarter. PNC Financial Services Group Inc. now owns 17,438 shares of the basic materials companys stock worth $560,000 after purchasing an additional 1,906 shares in the last quarter. Bank of Montreal Can lifted its stake in shares of Univar Solutions by 333.6% during the first quarter. Bank of Montreal Can now owns 74,175 shares of the basic materials companys stock worth $2,394,000 after purchasing an additional 57,069 shares in the last quarter. MetLife Investment Management LLC lifted its stake in shares of Univar Solutions by 33.4% during the first quarter. MetLife Investment Management LLC now owns 110,489 shares of the basic materials companys stock worth $3,551,000 after purchasing an additional 27,641 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Rhumbline Advisers lifted its stake in shares of Univar Solutions by 0.4% during the first quarter. Rhumbline Advisers now owns 452,955 shares of the basic materials companys stock worth $14,558,000 after purchasing an additional 1,604 shares in the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 84.08% of the companys stock.

About Univar Solutions

(Free Report)

Univar Solutions Inc distributes commodity and specialty chemical products, and provides related services worldwide. It offers epoxy resins, polyurethanes, titanium dioxide, fumed silica, esters, plasticizers, silicones, and specialty amines; ingredients for cleaners, detergents, and disinfectant products; and base stocks, performance-enhancing additives for lubricants and metalworking fluids.

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White Lighthouse Investment Management Inc. increased its holdings in shares of Nuveen ESG Large-Cap Growth ETF (BATS:NULG  Free Report) by 9.2% during the 1st quarter, according to the company in its most recent 13F filing with the SEC. The institutional investor owned 6,739 shares of the companys stock after acquiring an additional 569 shares during the period. White Lighthouse Investment Management Inc.s holdings in Nuveen ESG Large-Cap Growth ETF were worth $376,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

Other institutional investors have also made changes to their positions in the company. Raymond James & Associates boosted its position in Nuveen ESG Large-Cap Growth ETF by 15.8% in the first quarter. Raymond James & Associates now owns 15,918 shares of the companys stock valued at $967,000 after buying an additional 2,171 shares in the last quarter. Raymond James Financial Services Advisors Inc. boosted its position in Nuveen ESG Large-Cap Growth ETF by 12.9% in the first quarter. Raymond James Financial Services Advisors Inc. now owns 20,698 shares of the companys stock valued at $1,257,000 after buying an additional 2,369 shares in the last quarter. US Bancorp DE boosted its position in Nuveen ESG Large-Cap Growth ETF by 36.6% in the first quarter. US Bancorp DE now owns 12,136 shares of the companys stock valued at $737,000 after buying an additional 3,251 shares in the last quarter. PNC Financial Services Group Inc. boosted its position in Nuveen ESG Large-Cap Growth ETF by 89.2% in the first quarter. PNC Financial Services Group Inc. now owns 7,222 shares of the companys stock valued at $439,000 after buying an additional 3,404 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Cetera Investment Advisers boosted its position in Nuveen ESG Large-Cap Growth ETF by 9.6% in the first quarter. Cetera Investment Advisers now owns 35,479 shares of the companys stock valued at $2,155,000 after buying an additional 3,109 shares in the last quarter.

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Nuveen ESG Large-Cap Growth ETF Stock Up 1.3 %

BATS:NULG opened at $62.21 on Friday. The firm has a market cap of $1.07 billion, a PE ratio of 31.18 and a beta of 1.12. Nuveen ESG Large-Cap Growth ETF has a 12 month low of $26.91 and a 12 month high of $34.04. The companys 50-day moving average price is $57.86 and its two-hundred day moving average price is $54.45.

Nuveen ESG Large-Cap Growth ETF Profile

The Nuveen ESG Large-Cap Growth ETF (NULG) is an exchange-traded fund that is based on the MSCI TIAA ESG USA Large Cap Growth index. The fund tracks an index composed of large-cap US companies with growth characteristics that also meet certain environmental, social, and governance (ESG) criteria. NULG was launched on Dec 13, 2016 and is managed by Nuveen.

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Workspace Group plc (LON:WKP  Free Report) insider Duncan Owen purchased 10,600 shares of the stock in a transaction dated Wednesday, June 28th. The stock was purchased at an average price of GBX 473 ($6.01) per share, for a total transaction of 50,138 ($63,748.25).

Workspace Group Stock Up 0.7 %

WKP stock opened at GBX 472.80 ($6.01) on Friday. The firm has a 50 day moving average of GBX 488.16 and a 200 day moving average of GBX 479.97. The stock has a market capitalization of 906.07 million, a PE ratio of -2,251.43, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 2.03 and a beta of 1.11. The company has a quick ratio of 0.11, a current ratio of 1.19 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 52.78. Workspace Group plc has a 52 week low of GBX 335.20 ($4.26) and a 52 week high of GBX 611.50 ($7.77).

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Workspace Group Increases Dividend

The firm also recently disclosed a dividend, which will be paid on Friday, August 4th. Shareholders of record on Thursday, July 6th will be paid a dividend of GBX 17.40 ($0.22) per share. This represents a yield of 3.63%. This is a boost from Workspace Groups previous dividend of $8.40. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Thursday, July 6th. Workspace Groups payout ratio is presently -12,380.95%.

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

Workspace Group Company Profile

A number of analysts have recently weighed in on the stock. Peel Hunt restated a buy rating and issued a GBX 600 ($7.63) price target on shares of Workspace Group in a report on Tuesday, May 16th. JPMorgan Chase & Co. raised their price target on shares of Workspace Group from GBX 650 ($8.26) to GBX 700 ($8.90) and gave the company an overweight rating in a report on Tuesday, May 30th. Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft reiterated a buy rating and issued a GBX 834 ($10.60) target price on shares of Workspace Group in a research note on Wednesday, June 7th. Finally, Numis Securities reiterated a buy rating and issued a GBX 630 ($8.01) target price on shares of Workspace Group in a research note on Thursday, May 25th. Six equities research analysts have rated the stock with a buy rating, According to MarketBeat.com, the company currently has an average rating of Buy and an average target price of GBX 640.67 ($8.15).

(Free Report)

Established in 1987, and listed on the London Stock Exchange since 1993. We are home to thousands of businesses, including fast growing and established brands across a wide range of sectors. Workspace is geared towards helping businesses perform at their very best. We provide inspiring, flexible work spaces in dynamic London locations.

Further Reading

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BEIJING, July 1 (Xinhua)  "Those who yearn for light will take the initiative to approach the light. It's a natural thing to do," said 43-year-old Luo Canglong, recalling why he applied to join the Communist Party of China (CPC), which is celebrating its 102nd birthday on July 1.

Being a member of a non-profit emergency rescue team code-named "Blue Sky," Luo, a former forest firefighter, had witnessed his CPC team members charging ahead regardless of dangers during past fire rescue operations. It inspired him to join them and become a member.

Over the course of a century, the CPC has evolved from a fledgling party with 50-odd members in 1921 into the world's largest governing party, boasting an impressive membership of over 98 million individuals.

Ahead of the founding anniversary of the CPC, official figures revealed that the CPC membership marked an increase of nearly 1.33 million, or 1.4 percent, from 2021 to 98.04 million at the end of 2022.

Since the People's Republic of China was founded in 1949, the CPC has governed the world's largest socialist country for more than seven decades, transforming China from a poor and backward country into the one that is on its way to become a high-income country.

The CPC's unparalleled achievements shone brightly through the annals of history. Since the 18th CPC National Congress in 2012, the Party had orchestrated the miraculous eradication of absolute poverty in a country of 1.4 billion people, one of the greatest achievements in human history. The country realized its goal of building a moderately prosperous society in all respects under the leadership of the CPC.

At the same time, China has moved closer to the center of the world stage, playing a more active role in international affairs.

In a three-year fight against COVID-19, China, guided by the CPC, secured a massive and decisive victory over the pandemic. It was amidst this backdrop that Pan Chengman, a young woman born in 1991, submitted her application to join the CPC in early 2020.

Seeing Party members working round the clock to fight COVID-19 in her virus-ravaged village in southwest China's Yunnan Province, Pan decided to join the CPC and volunteered to be a member of the COVID response team.

"After joining the Party, what I want to do the most is to help my fellow villagers to increase their income," said Pan, who set up a pig breeding cooperative in the village.

Since the very day of its founding, the Party has made seeking happiness for the Chinese people and rejuvenation for the Chinese nation its aspiration and mission.

Now, the CPC is rallying Chinese people on a new journey, aiming to build China into a great modern socialist country in all respects by the middle of this century.

Millions of Party members, through their everyday work with great dedication, made their share of contributions to the hard-won success and continue to devote themselves to the cause of the Party and the country in the new era.

People visit the site of the First National Congress of the Communist Party of China in east China's Shanghai, Oct. 1, 2022. [Xinhua/Liu Ying]

At this time of the year, the memorial of the first CPC National Congress in Shanghai is expected to have a surge of visitors paying tribute to the Party's historic founding.

Hanging on the wall are heartfelt messages left by these visitors, deeply touched by the precious exhibits that narrate the very first chapter of the CPC's history. One note reads, "Happy 102nd founding anniversary of the Communist Party of China! We will always follow the Party!"

As the head of a team responsible for organizing public awareness activities on the Party's history at the memorial, Yang Yu is making education program plans to enhance Chinese youth's sense of duty in realizing the national rejuvenation.

"Working at the forefront of promoting a revolutionary culture of the Party, I am committed to presenting the CPC's stories and its great founding spirit in more vivid and captivating ways," Yang said.

People participate in a ceremony at the monument marking the departure of the Long March by the Central Red Army in Yudu County, east China's Jiangxi Province, May 1, 2021. [Xinhua/Wan Xiang]

In another corner of China, Sun Guanfa, a descendant of the Red Army, pins a Party member badge proudly on his shirt every day  a habit that he has kept for years.

The 74-year-old is a native of Tantou Village in Yudu, east China's Jiangxi Province. The village was where the Central Red Army assembled for the Long March from 1934 to 1936, an extraordinarily bitter and arduous journey that brought about profound implication to the Party and the country.

Once a poverty-stricken village partly due to its natural conditions, Tantou Village shook off poverty in 2017.

Sun recalled that village cadres had tried every effort to help him increase his family income to pay expensive medical bills of his wife.

"Today's happy life is the result of countless revolutionary martyrs with blood, and only by constant struggle can we comfort our ancestors," said Sun. He volunteered to educate local students about the Party's history, instilling in them a sense of gratitude and responsibility to carry on the Party's legacy.

Taking examples from generations of Party members, the younger generations have also devoted themselves to national rejuvenation whenever and wherever needed.

As a Party member and head of the strategic development department of the China Xiong'an Group, Zhou Yu settled in the Xiong'an New Area in north China's Hebei Province five years ago. Zhou has been making efforts to build a digital city and promote public service innovation in the region.

"As big strides have been made in the construction of Xiong'an, we are more confident and enthusiastic than ever to devote ourselves to the 'city of the future,'" Zhou said.

This aerial photo taken on June 9, 2023 shows a view of the Tonglu equestrian center, a venue of the Hangzhou 2022 Asian Games, in Hangzhou, east China's Zhejiang Province. [Xinhua/Jiang Han]

In Hangzhou, the capital of east China's Zhejiang Province, Zou Jianhua, an official with the operation team of the Tonglu equestrian center, has been busy making final preparations for the upcoming Asian Games in September. The Tonglu equestrian center will host equestrian competitions at the Asian Games.

It took seven years for Zou to grow from a total stranger to equestrianism to a key team member that helped to hold the first international equestrian open in Hangzhou successfully, which provided a precious experience for future competitions in the Asian Games.

Zou and his colleagues, many of whom are Party members, have overcome great difficulties from the lack of previous examples for reference to the shortage of professionals in the preparation work.

"As the CPC celebrates its 102nd founding anniversary, the preparations for the Hangzhou Asian Games are also entering the final stage," said Zou. "We'll work to ensure an outstanding Asian Games."

As Zou and other people involved in the preparations for the Asian Games are working fast, Chinese scientists are also making fast progress in the development of FAST, the abbreviation for the Five-hundred-meter Aperture Spherical Radio Telescope, which is also called "China Sky Eye."

Last week, a study on the discovery made by FAST in southwest China's Guizhou Province was published in the journal Nature, exemplifying the country's breakthroughs in science and technology.

"The best way for scientists to celebrate the Party's birthday is to brighten people's lives through fruitful outcomes and embrace a better future empowered by science and technology," said Jiang Peng, chief engineer of FAST.

(Source: Xinhua)
A view from the scene of a mass shooting incident at the 800 block of Gretna Court in Baltimore, Maryland, United States on July 2. About 30 people were injured and several individuals were killed. Two people are deceased and three people are in critical condition.
Funeral held for French teenager as arrests mount on fifth night of protests
PAPILLION  An independent investigation into 52 election-related complaints received by Sarpy County resulted in no evidence of election fraud, voter suppression or criminal misbehavior.

The county issued a news release Friday with the results, which evaluated the 2020 general and 2022 primary elections at the behest of the Sarpy County Attorneys Office.

Investigator William W. Black, a 42-year Nebraska law enforcement veteran with extensive experience in criminal investigations, was hired to conduct the review after the complaints were received May 10, 2022.

"The County Attorneys Office directed Black to identify the individuals responsible for criminal wrongdoing if it occurred and to forward the evidence and a prosecutable case for specific crimes committed if present," according to the release.

No evidence of criminal wrongdoing was discovered.

Sarpy County Attorney Lee Polikov said his office takes concerns about elections seriously.

"At the conclusion of this investigation, I remain confident that Sarpy County elections are free, fair and devoid of fraudulent activity or criminal intent, Polikov said. The investigation was thorough and professional. The people of Sarpy County can take great comfort in the investigators diligence and these findings.

The county released a 32-page report describing the complaints and detailing the findings of the investigator, including isolated election-related issues caused by human error that did not influence the outcome of the elections, the release states.

One such instance includes a volunteer poll worker recording precinct pollbook information. They were confronted by other poll workers and stopped immediately.

Two people were found to have voted in Sarpy County after moving to nearby jurisdictions. Those voters didn't vote twice, however, and officials determined they would not be able to prove intent for criminal voter fraud.

Top Journal Star photos for June 2023
More showers and storms expected in Nebraska today. Damaging hail and wind are possible in spots. Flooding and tornadoes can't be ruled out. Get the latest on timing and where severe storms are most likely in our weather update.
Its as if Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis has gathered up every hateful and half-baked scheme ever concocted to keep immigrants out of this nation of immigrants and used them to piece together his platform on one of Americas most divisive topics.

In an attempt to claim the immigration issue as his own, DeSantis sent Florida National Guard troops to the U.S.-Mexico border and shipped refugees from Texas to Marthas Vineyard. He also helped push through Florida Senate Bill 1718, which will take effect on July 1. It limits social services for undocumented immigrants, nullifies drivers licenses issued to undocumented people by other states and requires hospitals that receive Medicaid to check a patients immigration status. The law also makes transporting undocumented immigrantswhich could mean giving someone a ride to worka felony, punishable by fines and jail time.

The latest terrible, horrible, no good, very bad idea from the Republican presidential candidate is a proposed ban on birthright citizenship for children born on U.S. soil to undocumented immigrants.

DeSantis needs to do his homework. He looks foolish and out of step with the times when he rehashes ideas that have long been debated, discredited and discarded.

There are those Republicans who think birthright citizenship is settled law, and they dont want to be part of an ugly fight that is likely to cost them the support of moderates and independents. Besides, going after innocent kidsto punish their parentsis a good way of blowing up every bridge the GOP has built to Latino voters. The top three issues for Americas largest minority are family, family and family.

At one point, wasnt there a political party that touted itself as a champion of family values? Whatever happened to those folks?

Of course, other Republicans will applaud DeSantis for fighting a battle they supporton principle, if nothing else.

Silly rabbit, Republicans dont have principles. The party is filled with self-proclaimed originalists or strict constructionists who insist that the Constitution must not be tinkered with. Yet if doing so would advance their political objectives or win them a few seats in Congress, there are those Republicans who cant wait to fiddle with the Constitution.

For the past 15 years, a parade of GOP lawmakers, governors and candidates have threatened to change the 14th Amendment to eliminate birthright citizenship. At issue is a portion of Section 1, which dictates that all persons born or naturalized in the United States, and subject to the jurisdiction thereof, are citizens of the United States. Some Republicans are miffed that all persons includes the U.S.-born children of undocumented immigrants.

Those are the rules. The parents might be in the country illegally, but, if they have a child on U.S. soil, that child is a U.S. citizen and guaranteed all the privileges and legal protections that go with the status.

Its a beautiful tradition worth preserving. Its one of the things that separates the United States from other countries, and one of the reasons it is a superpower. This nations greatest strength is its people, and we need the occasional infusion of U.S.-born children of immigrants who will grow to love America because of what it gave themand their parents.

Yet Republicans, who treat this country like a private club, want to scrap that part of the 14th Amendment and replace it with more-restrictive language that excludes U.S.-born children of the undocumented.

Meanwhile, DeSantiss poll numbers are in free fall. The more Republican voters see of him, the less they like him. I cant imagine why.

Put it all together, and chances are that birthright citizenship will be around a lot longer than DeSantiss ill-fated White House bid.
Many people dont know about a small raptor known as the Mississippi kite. It is a graceful bird worth admiring. And its making a comeback.

This raptor is about the size of a peregrine falcon. Its body is about 13 to 15 inches long and it has a 3-foot wingspan. The male and female are similar, with gray bodies and dark gray to black tails and outer wings. Their wings are pointed, making them aerodynamic when in flight and catching food.

Kites glide, circle and perform acrobatic movements as they swoop in to catch large flying insects in their sharp talons. They also eat smaller birds, bats, frogs, toads and lizards. Sometimes, they eat while in flight by transferring prey from their talons to their beak.

Mississippi kites inhabit open wooded areas, wooded river corridors and suburban areas. They nest in colonies, making small, shallow, bowl-shaped structures built out of sticks. The female lays up to three eggs, and both parents incubate the eggs for about a month. Parents take turns feeding themselves when not incubating eggs. In other raptor species, the female usually relies on the male to provide her with food as she solely incubates the eggs. Both kite parents also take care of their young.

During the mid-1900s, Mississippi kite populations declined, but recently the species expanded its breeding range into new regions, including the Great Plains. This species is known to nest from Arizona to northern Florida and into Illinois. More recently, theyve nested as far north as New Hampshire.

Its not known for sure why these kites are expanding their range, but tree and hedgerow plantings in the Great Plains probably have contributed to them adapting to urban environments.

Before the 1990s, the Mississippi kite was an infrequent summer visitor to Nebraska. In 1991, kites were observed in Ogallala, and the first confirmed nesting activities were documented in August 1994 when 11 birds were counted, and two successful nests were found.

Successful breeding has occurred in North Platte since 2012. Since then, the population has grown, with at least 21 birds reported in July 2021. Nesting also has occurred recently in Scottsbluff, McCook and Lincoln. Reports from many other Nebraska cities also have increased in recent years.

Mississippi kites typically gather in large flocks as they prepare to migrate to warmer areas for the winter. These birds travel great lengths during their migration through several states before arriving at winter retreats in Brazil, Paraguay and Argentina.

Because they travel through several states and countries, Mississippi kites are susceptible to many threats, including weather, exhaustion, starvation and disease.

While this species currently is thriving, it still is important to protect them.
Photo: Mike Coppola / Staff (Getty Images), Stephane Cardinale - Corbis / Contributor (Getty Images), Edwine Seymour / Stringer (Getty Images)

Babies, babies, babies! Black celebrities like Rihanna, Serena Williams, and Uzo Aduba have announced their pregnancies this year and were loving their fits! Here are some moments when Black celebs showed off their cute baby bumps!

Rihanna- 2022

Photo: Mike Coppola / Staff (Getty Images), Kevin Mazur / Contributor (Getty Images), Marc Piasecki / Contributor (Getty Images)

Rihanna was in the thick of Fenty Beauty and Savage x Fenty promo while pregnant with her first child, RZA, in 2022! She didnt shy away from showing some skin!

Read more

Jada Pinkett Smith- 1998

Photo: Steve Azzara / Contributor (Getty Images)

Jada Pinkett Smith was pregnant with Jaden Smith in 1998 and had the cutest baby bump! She showed it off in this sheer, sparkly paneled gown for the Grammy Awards!

Kerry Washington- 2016

Photo: Axelle/Bauer-Griffin / Contributor (Getty Images)

In 2016, Kerry Washington was pregnant with her first child and slayed the Primetime Emmy Awards carpet in this cut-out black gown! Gorgeous!

Paulette Washington- 1991

Photo: Laura Luongo / Contributor (Getty Images)

Denzel Washingtons wife, Pauletta Washington, was pregnant with twins, Olivia and Malcolm, in 1991. She joined her husband at the Oscars wearing this lovely yellow dress with gold heels!

Kelly Rowland- 2014

Photo: C Flanigan / Contributor (Getty Images)

Kelly Rowland was pregnant in 2014 with her son Titan, and attended the MTV Video Music Awards wearing this white, sequin gown!

Serena Williams- 2023

Photo: ANGELA WEISS / Contributor (Getty Images)

In 2023, Serena Williams revealed her second pregnancy and walked the Met Gala carpet on the same day! This Karl Lagerfeld-inspired dress was perfect for the special day!

Tia Mowry- 2011

Photo: Jason Merritt / Staff (Getty Images)

In 2011, Tia Mowry arrived at the NAACP Image Awards in this beautiful black and lace gown! She was pregnant with her first child, Cree.

Jodie Turner-Smith- 2020

Photo: NurPhoto / Contributor (Getty Images)

Jodie Turner-Smith never misses a fabulous fashion moment, even while pregnant! In 2020, the British actress graced the British Academy Film Awards in this stunning yellow gown.

Keke Palmer

Photo: Craig Barritt / Stringer (Getty Images)

Keke Palmer had not yet announced her pregnancy before attending the TIME 100 Next Gala in 2022, but hid her baby bump under this super cute and fun pink mini dress!

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Kimora Lee Simmons- 2002

Photo: Edwine Seymour / Stringer (Getty Images)

The gorgeous Kimora Lee Simmons was out and about in this sheer, leg slit dress while pregnant with her second daughter, Aoki Lee, in 2002

Beyonce- 2017

Photo: Kevin Mazur / Contributor (Getty Images)

Beyonce was a true goddess at the Grammy Awards wearing this ethereal, gold ensemble! She was pregnant with her twins Rumi and Sir Carter at the time.

Uzo Aduba- 2023

Photo: Cindy Ord / Staff (Getty Images)

Why not wear a power suit? Actress Uzo Aduba wore this summery, orange suit to the Tony Awards in 2023! This was the same day that she announced her first pregnancy!

Halle Berry- 2007

Photo: Gareth Cattermole / Staff (Getty Images)

Halle Berry was pregnant with her daughter during the press tour for Things We Lost in the Fire (2007), and served with every look!

Tamera Mowry- 2015

Photo: Tommaso Boddi / Contributor (Getty Images)

Tamera Mowry-Housley was pregnant with her mini-me Ariah and opted for simple yet elegant outfits during her pregnancy! She wore this white gown to the Primetime Emmy Awards in 2015!

Cardi B- 2018

Photo: Neilson Barnard / Staff (Getty Images)

Cardi B shut down the Met Gala in 2018 during her pregnancy with her daughter Kulture! This has been one of Cardis best Met looks!

Ciara- 2020

Photo: WWD / Contributor (Getty Images)

Who says that pregnant people cant dress sexy? Ciara pulled up to the Vanity Fair Oscars Party in 2020 looking hot, hot hot in this sheer dress!

Chanel Iman- 2018

Photo: WWD / Contributor (Getty Images)

Model Chanel Iman can rock any fit and this red dress for Fragrance Foundation Awards in 2018 is no exception!

Meghan Markle- 2018

Photo: Jeff Spicer/BFC / Contributor (Getty Images)

Meghan Markle always goes for a classic outfit while out at events! She wore this lovely, black, one-shoulder gown with gold bangle bracelets to the Fashion Awards in 2018. She was pregnant with baby Archie at the time!

Garcelle Beauvais- 2007

Photo: Jon Kopaloff / Contributor (Getty Images)

Shes beauty and shes grace! Garcelle Beauvais opted for a flowy, angelic look for the Transformers premiere in 2007! She was pregnant with her twins Jax and Jaid.

Da Brat- 2023

Photo: Aaron J. Thornton / Contributor (Getty Images)

Da Brat hasnt sacrificed her personal style during her pregnancy! She wore this Chicago Bulls jersey with a tummy cut-out for the Lovers & Friends Festival in 2023.



Brandy- 2002

Photo: Michael Caulfield Archive / Contributor (Getty Images)

Brandy was expecting her daughter, Syrai, when she performed for American Bandstands 50th Celebration in 2002! She wore this sheer tunic to give her fans a peek at her cute baby bump!



Rihanna- 2023

Photo: Kevin Mazur / Contributor (Getty Images), Jeff Kravitz / Contributor (Getty Images), Gotham / Contributor (Getty Images)

Rihanna surprised the world at the Super Bowl 2023 by revealing her baby bump for baby #2! She has worn various silhouettes this pregnancy, from fitted to more laid-back fits!

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Phyllis Irene McLaughlin de Urrea, of Staten Island, died in her sleep at 74, in 1990. Soon after, her son, Luis Alberto Urrea, who lives in Naperville, teaches at the University of Illinois Chicago and has been acclaimed for years as a novelist of harrowing tales set on the Mexico border, was cleaning her home in San Diego. He was going through what she left behind when he came across a photo curled into a hollow doorknob. It showed a tall dark-haired man he didnt recognize. He didnt keep the photo. But years later, when a woman in Champaign who was close to his mother was showing him old black-and-whites taken during the 1940s, there was that man again. Or at least someone who looked similar. The photo had been snapped in France during World War II, Urreas mother is on a beach in Cannes, the mans arm casually over her shoulders.

As Urrea writes in an authors note to Good Night, Irene, the new bestseller based on his mothers wartime experiences, he asked the Champaign woman, Jill Pitts Knappenberger: OK, who is this guy? Oh, replied Knappenberger, thats Jake. And who the hell is Jake? Urrea asked. Jake was a fighter pilot. Jake was his mothers boyfriend.

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It was a war, she added with a smile. We all had men.

"Good Night, Irene" by Luis Alberto Urrea. (Little, Brown and Company)

And so, Jake, Jill, Phyllis  they became characters in Good Night, Irene. Though since its a fictionalized account based largely on his mothers life, Phyllis became Irene. It tells the story of the Donut Dollies, the somewhat condescending nickname given to the women who worked in American Red Cross Clubmobiles, often along the front lines. Urreas mother, who made doughnuts and coffee and delivered candy and mail to troops, traveled through Europe, first England, then France, landing in Normandy just after the Allies. She rode in a 2.5-ton truck with a pop-out service window and a doughnut maker. She was based in ARC Clubmobile Cheyenne. In Good Night, Irene, its the truck Rapid City.

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As a young man, Urrea, now 67, knew little of this.

He grew up in Tijuana, Mexico, and San Diego. His mother had been married to his father, an aide to several Mexican presidents; they met in San Francisco but separated when Urrea was young. The Phyllis who radiates happiness in photographs taken during the war was a joy, according to Knappenberger, who drove the Cheyenne. But Urrea did not know that Phyllis. He knew only a mother who nursed regrets. By the time he was born, Urrea says, the loneliness and the repercussions of the war had overcome her, bit by bit. She was always there for vivaciousness and laughter, but a lot was buried in PTSD.

Yet those photos ...

Urrea stopped a moment during his national tour for Good Night, Irene to share a few pictures and explain the scenes were looking at  and what old photographs dont show. What follows were pulled from a longer conversation, edited for length and clarity:

"This is Moms official Red Cross portrait." ... From "Good Night, Irene" by Luis Alberto Urrea, a book based on the World War II experiences of his mother, Phyllis Irene McLaughlin de Urrea. (Provided by Luis Alberto Urrea/HANDOUT)

1. This is Moms official Red Cross portrait. They tried to do right by those ladies! The uniforms were blue. These were bespoke, made at a haberdashery in London. Shes 27 here and cute as a button, thinking shes a 40s movie star. The first time I went to Jills house in Champaign  and for a long time, we had thought Jill was dead  she had this picture of my mom on her wall. Theyd lost contact in 1954 but Jill kept it there. When I saw it I felt I met my true mom. She is being very romantic in her expensive handmade uniform. And she doesnt know what shes about to get into. Soon, reality came along.

"Thats my mom on the right ..." From "Good Night, Irene" by Luis Alberto Urrea, a book based on the World War II experiences of his mother, Phyllis Irene McLaughlin de Urrea. (Provided by Luis Alberto Urrea/HANDOUT)

2. Thats my mom on the right, and I dont know who the woman is. I think a British Donut Dolly. The British started it in World War I, and it was Eisenhowers idea for the Americans to do it. There were 80 trucks and 120 women in total. Here they are in a house in Glatton, England, where they were stationed before they left. Its a pair of cobbled-together 15th century buildings. John Fords film crew was sharing the house with them. You know, it was like not a trace (of the Red Cross women) came out later. Jill, when we talked to her, was so mad at Stephen Ambrose, Steven Spielberg, Tom Brokaw. Of all the war stuff they wrote, filmed, reported  not even a footnote on them.

"They landed at Utah Beach with Pattons Third Army ..." From "Good Night, Irene" by Luis Alberto Urrea, a book based on the World War II experiences of his mother, Phyllis Irene McLaughlin de Urrea. (Provided by Luis Alberto Urrea/HANDOUT)

3. They landed at Utah Beach with Pattons Third Army and went all through Europe, were trapped in the Siege of Brest, caught in the Battle of the Bulge. They entered Germany with Patton. I dont know here if theyre flying to Scotland or down to Cannes for R&R. The guys there have done this many times. My mother is praying. Jill took the picture. She thought it was hilarious. Actually, only one (clubmobile volunteer) died in service. My mother was in a wreck in the Bavarian Alps. The Germans were in the process of surrendering. The truck hit a shell hole and flipped and went off the cliff. My mothers legs were torn apart. G.I.s found her and climbed up the mountain with her.

"This is one of the few pictures from inside the truck. My mom took it." ... From "Good Night, Irene" by Luis Alberto Urrea, a book based on the World War II experiences of his mother, Phyllis Irene McLaughlin de Urrea. (Provided by Luis Alberto Urrea/HANDOUT)

4. This is one of the few pictures from inside the truck. My mom took it. She wanted to be a photographer. This is what she saw every day, many times a day. These guys were nice and polite to the Dollies but they were killing people and being killed and some of them were 22 here, but any time you see combat photos, young guys look 40. These women were often the last friendly face they saw before confronting thunder, blood, terror.

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"Thats my mother on the left, Jills in the middle and on the right, Helen Anderson, who served with them. If you look in the window of the clubmobile, theres a ghostly male." ... From "Good Night, Irene" by Luis Alberto Urrea, a book based on the World War II experiences of his mother, Phyllis Irene McLaughlin de Urrea. (Provided by Luis Alberto Urrea/HANDOUT)

5. Thats my mother on the left, Jills in the middle and on the right, Helen Anderson, who served with them. If you look in the window of the clubmobile, theres a ghostly male. I tell (his wife) Cindy, thats Jake. But she says, no. I think it adds mystery. The Cheyenne was abandoned in Germany after the war. A friend sent me photos of it taken during the 1970s. Its in a field and its full of hippies. Boy, Mom would have been mad.

cborrelli@chicagotribune.com
1873: Lincoln led off its Independence Day celebration with a 37-gun sunrise salute. City residents watched a parade and firefighting display during the day and rounded out the celebration with fireworks and a dance.

1883: Thousands of hogs and cattle died when the Nemaha River overflowed in Johnson County.

1893: Lincoln businessmen wired President Grover Cleveland, asking his support for immediate repeal of the Sherman silver purchase law.

1903: Directors of the Lincoln Auditorium decided to install a stage and rent the building at the southeast corner of 13th and M streets for theatrical purposes.

1913: In a speech before Lancaster County teachers, Prof. J.W. Searson said the life of the average farm wife was four years shorter than that of her husband.

1923: Crop losses as a result of one of the most severe hailstorms in Gage County history were estimated at $100,000. Lincoln experienced its hottest day of the year when the thermometer hit 96 degrees.

1933: When a man testified in court that he was unable to pay cash alimony, his former wife accepted a truckload of hay.

1943: All 15 students taking the state bar exam passed, a first in Nebraska. Three were women.

1953: Wind and hail damaged wheat and cornfields in a strip two miles wide and 18 miles long near Hastings.

1963: Floods in Southeast Nebraska knocked out more than 200 bridges, took three lives and caused damage estimated up to $13 million. Seven counties were declared disaster areas by Gov. Frank Morrison.

1973: The Willa Cather Pioneer Memorial and Educational Foundation of Red Cloud hired its first paid executive, Joe Emmons, 26, to be managing editor of foundation affairs and museum curator.

1983: The large turnout at recreation areas over the Fourth of July weekend pleased Nebraska Game and Parks Commission officials, who had worried recent flooding would hurt attendance.

Vernon Herman, a West Point farmer, published a chronology of World War I. He wrote the 600-page book as a day-to-day look at major incidents that occurred in the years up to 1919.

1993: Gov. Ben Nelson sought federal disaster relief for 22 Nebraska counties plagued with heavy rain and flooding.

2003: National negotiations between the United Steelworkers and Goodyear broke off after the union rejected a late company offer. Goodyear officials were disappointed in the rejection.
The Scoop

Billionaire Binance founder Changpeng Zhao has been bunkered down in Dubai as French prosecutors investigate the worlds largest crypto exchange for alleged money laundering, according to several colleagues who have been in touch with him.

Zhao, commonly known as CZ, had traditionally split his time between Dubai, Paris, and other global cities including in Southeast Asia, but he has avoided traveling to France since the investigation was reported by French media about two weeks ago. In the U.S., the Securities and Exchange Commission has sued Binance and CZ, accusing them of misleading investors and diverting customer funds.

The U.S. and the United Arab Emirates do not have an extradition treaty, but France and the UAE have had an agreement since 2007. Dubai has ramped up enforcement of extradition pacts following a downgrade from global watchdog Financial Action Task Force last year.

A Binance spokesperson disputed the characterization, saying CZ has a home in France that he uses frequently and that he is still traveling for business. The exchange also said we abide by all laws in France, just as we do in every other market.

The company does not claim a set location for its headquarters, with CZ claiming in the past that the firm is based wherever he is at any moment.

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Binance invested a lot of money and political clout in the French capital to make Paris a burgeoning crypto hot spot  with a clear top dog. The exchange has created conferences, staffed up its local office, and even partnered with Burger King in the city to let customers use crypto to buy burgers and fries.

While Andreessen Horowitz chose London as Europes digital assets hub, Binance was betting big on Paris. France also approved Binance to do business in the country while the United Kingdom did not.

Bradley's view

France turning from friend to foe hurts the billionaire more than the probe in the U.S., where he had been viewed as the Darth Vader to Sam Bankman-Frieds Luke Skywalker, before the latters legal troubles (Bankman-Fried is no longer an investor in Semafor). France accepted CZ and Binance as the company that would turn Paris into a crypto hotspot. He personally spent a lot of time in the city, several people close to him say, making it as much his home as Dubai.

Story continues

Now, hes staying put in the Gulf and needs to stay on the right side of the ruling family in the UAE, who will be happy to have someone bringing crypto industry conferences and high-profile executives to town, as CZ already has.

Room for Disagreement

Dubai doesnt want to be the Bahamas, where Bankman-Frieds FTX was based. After the U.S. Commodity Futures Trading Commission charged Binance in late March, the Emirates crypto regulatory body asked for more information on governance and auditing procedures for all foreign exchanges in the country, including Binance.

The View From Brusssels

A pair of European Parliament members, including one from France, raised concerns about Binances approval to operate in Paris last summer. MP Aurore Lalucq specifically mentioned the alleged money laundering activity on the exchange.

Notable
The Iowa Legislature was explicit in 1967: Free and open examination of public records is generally in the public interest, even though such examination may cause inconvenience or embarrassment to public officials or others.

In 56 years since, a great many public officials have ignored this premise. But the Iowa Supreme Court has shown in a pair of opinions this term that it got the message, and the state will be better for it.

This decision fell to the Supreme Court because defiance of the 1967 laws spirit is easy to find. The governors office has frustrated requests by declining to even answer them. Agencies at all levels have conditioned their compliance on Iowans paying exorbitant six-figure review fees. The law started with 11 exceptions for maintaining confidentiality, but subsequent legislatures have added on average over one new exception every year. Judgments of the Iowa Public Information Board often seem to turn on its head the original idea  presuming public access at the outset  and err on the side of privacy, deferring to discretionary decisions against disclosure.

In the two lawsuits against the state decided this year, the allegations were egregious (and state lawyers disputed only a few of them).

For months on end, Gov. Kim Reynolds office all but ignored eight straightforward requests from Bleeding Heartland and Iowa Capital Dispatch journalists and the Iowa Freedom of Information Council. When the organizations and journalists sued, some of the records were, magically, provided.

Polly Carver-Kimm fulfilled public information requests for years as part of her job with the Iowa Department of Public Health. She says that the responsibility was taken away from her in stages as she butted heads with superiors and Reynolds' staffers for being prompt and helpful in her work at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. She eventually resigned and sued for wrongful discharge.

State had argued that timeliness doesnt matter

The Iowa Attorney Generals Office took some big swings to try to swat down the lawsuits. It argued that Iowa Code Chapter 22, the public records law, does not require timely compliance and that, even if it did, Reynolds staff was exempt. It argued that the public interest in upholding transparency laws wasnt a good enough reason to bar officials from firing employees for complying with those laws. But district judges and Supreme Court majorities found instead that there are consequences for trying to shield the publics eyes from the publics business.

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More: After Iowa Supreme Court rebuke, Kim Reynolds settles open records lawsuits for $175,000

Especially in the case directly addressing how the governors office dealt with requests, a ruling favoring state government would have tragically undermined Iowans practical ability to know about representatives work beyond their public, often self-serving pronouncements. The 6-0 decision dismisses the fiction that only explicit and ongoing refusal to share records breaks the law: We conclude that a defendant may refuse either by (1) stating that it wont produce records, or (2) showing that it wont produce records, wrote Justice David May.

The other case was closer: A 4-3 ruling lets Carver-Kimm continue pursuing her wrongful-discharge claim, but only against her departmental superiors, not against Reynolds or her deputies. Whether or not Carver-Kimm ultimately prevails, its refreshing that four justices found her transparency-related arguments about public policy more compelling than the well-established principle that most employees in Iowa can legally be dismissed for any or for no reason.

Justice Matthew McDermott correctly observed: What if, for instance, a lawful custodian is told by their boss that if they produce some embarrassing records, theyll be fired? Without legal protection for the custodian in this circumstance, its likely that the records will never be produced  and the records existence will never be known to the requesting party.

Gov. Kim Reynolds holds a news conference on Nov. 5, 2020 at the Iowa Capitol. Reynolds announced the launch of a public awareness campaign to encourage more social distancing and hygiene habits. "Government solutions alone can't stop this virus. It's up to every single one of us," Reynolds said.

Few duties are of more critical importance than informing the public

Among the duties of every public official, few are higher than providing accurate information to the people. Iowans entrusted with this responsibility should review these court decisions and act accordingly, with prompt and candid responses to requests for records. In doing so, they will deliver insight to Iowans, to which state law entitles them. And they will avoid taxpayer expense for unnecessary litigation  double expense in some cases, The State Appeal Board last month approved paying about $135,000 to the journalists lawyers as part of a settlement agreement.

The governor's office has stated it has revisited its open records policies and has committed to doing better moving forward, Thomas Story, an American Civil Liberties Union of Iowa attorney, said during a news conference. For our clients and us, this settlement agreement is about ensuring that it indeed will.

Public records illuminate how decisions are made, far more than the carefully edited and stage-managed declarations shared at news conferences and in news releases. Legislators in the 1960s recognized and codified that the people have every interest in how theyre being governed and the right to find out. Or, as was declared almost 250 years ago this month, Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed.

FURTHER READING: History and background of Iowa's open government laws

 Lucas Grundmeier on behalf of the Registers editorial board

P.S.: Keeping public out of meetings also ends poorly for elected officials

Iowa's open meetings law, the companion to the open records law, serves the similarly important purpose of allowing any Iowan to be present where their representatives are considering or taking action, with carefully defined exceptions.

The Iowa Freedom of Information Council and local news organizations won a victory on this front by securing a settlement with the Bettendorf school board in which its members admitted illegally banning reporters from a public meeting last year.

About 300 people met in May 2022 to talk about misbehavior at a middle school. All but one school board member was present. Unfortunately, as Freedom of Information Council Executive Director Randy Evans wrote in a column, the district rebuffed complaints that day and afterward, and the Iowa Public Information Board swallowed hook, line and sinker a laughable claim by school attorneys that school board members were at the gathering only as interested citizens.

A lawsuit and the settlement followed. Bettendorfs schools join the list of public agencies, such as the Warren County Board of Supervisors, whose attempts to evade the public meetings law have ended in embarrassment.

This editorial is the opinion of the Des Moines Register's editorial board: Carol Hunter, executive editor; Lucas Grundmeier, opinion editor; Rachelle Chase, opinion columnist; and Richard Doak and Rox Laird, editorial board members.

Want more opinions? Read other perspectives with our free newsletter, follow us on Facebook or visit us at DesMoinesRegister.com/opinion. Respond to any opinion by submitting a Letter to the Editor at DesMoinesRegister.com/letters.

This article originally appeared on Des Moines Register: Opinion: Kim Reynolds kept Iowans in the dark. That was wrong.
(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 today, 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 right now it's easier than ever to watch all four Indiana Jones movies across multiple streaming platforms, including Disney+, Paramount+ and even free on Pluto. 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.

Where to watch 'Indiana Jones' Disney+ $8 at Disney+

Where to stream 'Indiana Jones' Paramount+ $5 at Paramount+

Stream 'Indiana Jones' with ads Pluto TV $0 at Pluto TV

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.

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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.

Where to watch 'Indiana Jones' 1-4 Disney+ $8 at Disney+

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.

Where to Stream 'Indiana Jones' and 'The Adventures of Young Indiana Jones' Disney+ $8 at Disney+

Where to stream 'Indiana Jones' Paramount+ $5 at Paramount+

Stream 'Indiana Jones' with ads Pluto TV $0 at Pluto TV

Get tickets

How to watch Indiana Jones in release date order:

Raiders of the Lost Ark (1981)

The Temple of Doom (1984)

The Last Crusade (1989)

The Young Indiana Jones Chronicles (The Adventures of Young Indiana Jones) (TV series: 19921996)

The Kingdom of the Crystal Skull (2008)

The Dial of Destiny (2023)

Where to Stream 'Indiana Jones' Disney+ $8 at Disney+

Where to stream 'Indiana Jones' Paramount+ $5 at Paramount+

Stream 'Indiana Jones' with ads Pluto TV $0 at Pluto TV

Indiana Jones movies ranked based on Rotten Tomatoes scores

Looking for why to watch Indiana Jones? Here's how the movies rank based on critics reviews (ties broken by audience score), including recent reviews for Dial of Destiny:
Joanna Lumley's Spice Trail Adventure is a new series for ITV

Joanna Lumley's Spice Trail Adventure is a new series for ITV which sees Dame Joanna travel through Indonesia, Madagascar, Zanzibar, Jordan and her birthplace, India, to discover the story behind some of our most popular spices.

Here we tell you everything you need to know...

Joanna Lumley's Spice Trail Adventure release date

The series will begin on Wednesday 5 July on ITV1 at 9 pm and is four episodes in total.

Is there a trailer for Joanna Lumley's Spice Trail Adventure?

Not yet but we are expecting one soon so check back here to watch it when it's available.

What does Dame Joanna Lumley say about her Spice Trail Adventure?

"The idea is to tell the history of these amazing spices,"says Dame Joanna, 77. "Its now so normal for us to cook with spices but in the old days in Europe, we had salt, pepper, mustard and that was about it!

"I must admit I always put nutmeg on my green vegetables. But I now treat spices with such respect, knowing what goes into growing, harvesting and caring for them. Its pure magic!"

Joanna Lumley's Spice Trail Adventure.

Which country features in the first episode of Joanna Lumley's Spice Trail Adventure?

Joanna's first destination is Indonesia where she learns about the history of nutmeg.

Here in an interview with What to Watch Joanna talks us through each episode of Joanna Lumley's Spice Trail Adventure

Episode one  Indonesia

The opening episode sees Joanna heading to a collection of remote Indonesian islands, The Banda Islands, which were once the only place on earth where nutmeg grew. Joanna meets a family who make their living from harvesting them, she uncovers the dark history of Bandas past

"We took a 12-hour ferry to the remote but beautiful Banda Islands in Indonesia, where the only nutmeg trees in the world were once grown," says Dame Joanna. "In the Middle Ages, nutmeg was the most valuable commodity on Earth, and it could only be found on these islands in the extreme east of Indonesia.

Story continues

"The Dutch, Portuguese and the English were all desperate to get hold of this incredibly valuable spice, which at the time was even believed to be able to cure the plague, so was truly fought over and sailors crossed entire seas to reach it. They say that from one sack of nutmeg you were set up for about 10 years, it was so valuable."

Joanna Lumley's Spice Trail Adventure.

Episode two  India

Joanna returns to her birthplace, India, in search of a kitchen cupboard staple once known as "black gold". Starting in the ancient city of Hampi, shes invited to a Hindu festival by a local rock climber and later explores the lush backwaters of Kerala.

Joanna says, "India has got every spice under the sun, so we traveled to Kerala, Karnataka and Goa and concentrated on the story of ginger, black pepper and turmeric."

"In Goa, we tried extraordinary spice-flavored drinks, which were delicious. I even bought home bottles of this liquor called feni, which is pale and looks a bit like gin. Its lovely, although it tastes better in India!"

"We also visited a place in Karnataka called Hampi, which was once the second-largest city in the world. It has fabulous temples, arenas, palaces and colonnades, and is utterly stunning. Id never heard of it before, and I was born in India!"

Joanna Lumley's Spice Trail Adventure.

Episode three  Madagascar

Joanna ventures to the African island of Madagascar. Travelling overland on the countrys notorious pot-holed roads, she discovers the secrets of the worlds second most expensive spice, vanilla. From the unique way its grown to how its dealt on the streets. She searches for gold with a gold-mining community and finds out how cacao is used to make some of the worlds best chocolate.

Joanna says, "Madagascar is, of course, known for vanilla, which incredibly we learned is pollinated by hand because the only bees that can pollinate vanilla orchids naturally are wild bees found in Mexico."

"Vanilla was originally taken to Madagascar by the Mexicans, and they also took a hive of Mexican bees out, too. But all the bees died and there was nothing to pollinate the vanilla orchids. So now the vanilla pods that we buy and put into our sugar or our milk to make custards is all pollinated by hand. And we wonder why it's so expensive!"

Joanna Lumley's Spice Trail Adventure

Episode four  Zanzibar and Jordan

The last leg of Joanna Lumleys journey takes her to Zanzibar, the spice island of Africa where merchants from around the world have left their mark on the architecture, religion and music.

"Zanzibar became the great trading station of the spice trade where everything was loaded up onto dhows [a type of sailing vessel] and ships and transported to Jordan, our final destination of the series, where theyd then be traded", says Joanna.

"Zanzibar is a mythical place, filled with the darkest, saddest history of the slave dungeons where they kept people whod been rounded up in Africa to be sold on to people who wanted slave labour. It was shocking to learn how widespread the slave trade was."

Joanna Lumley's Spice Trail Adventure begins on Wednesday 5 July on ITV1
The opening scene of Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny takes fans back to the 1940s as a de-aged Harrison Ford faces off with Nazi scientist Dr. Voller (Mads Mikkelsen) in the aftermath of World War II. Soon after, the film fast forwards several decades and shows Voller still clinging to the past by obsessing over Hitlers defeat.

The villainous loser is the kind of character that Mikkelsen has become synonymous with in recent years  and the actor is well aware of his reputation for playing sleazy figures. In a new interview with GQ, Mikkelsen explained that he has always been most comfortable playing offbeat, sinister characters.

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To combine it  to do something real and also be a cutie pie  I dont really find it interesting, Mikkelsen said. Im not into the hair falling in your eyes, be cute in a corner. Not me. The losers are fun. Because we know them. You might have been in that situation yourself sometimes.

Mikkelsen added that his string of villainous turns in blockbuster franchises like Indiana Jones and Fantastic Beasts affords him the creative freedom to take on more adventurous international projects.

If theres nothing else, Ill definitely do this, because its fun, he said. And then I can do whatever I want back in Europe.

Mikkelsens remarks echo similar comments that he made in a 2021 interview with IndieWires Anne Thompson. The actor said that he would like to eventually branch out and play more non-villains, but he still enjoys playing bad guys in iconic franchises.

Im playing misunderstood people, he said. Ive had a few non-villainous American roles that tend to be the baddies; I did an American film called Arctic. Hes not a villain, so Im grateful for that. Maybe times will turn a little, and people are watching a little more of the Danish stuff. Maybe theyll accept a funny accent for an everyday-man character. If thats not the case, Im happy with what Im doing. Im happy Ive been invited into some great franchises, like the Bond, Marvel, and Indiana Jones. Its a luxury, so if thats whats coming my way, Ill take it any day. If they do want me to do something else, Ill give it a shot!

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Democratic presidential candidate Marianne Williamson announced her third campaign manager Friday as her campaign has been rocked by multiple staff shake ups.

Carlos Cardona, her former New Hampshire state director, will lead the campaign.

The news comes just before Williamson begins a speaking tour in New Hampshire and Massachusetts.

The Hill Elections 2024 coverage

The decision to promote Carlos Cardona represents the campaigns commitment to acknowledging precedent set in the Democratic primary season to allow the voters of the first in the nation state to be heard, Williamson said in a statement.

The progressive spiritual author has dealt with losing multiple members of her senior staff in quick succession. Previous campaign manager Roza Calerdon left the role in mid-June after just a month on the job.

The campaigns first manager Peter Daou and his deputy resigned their roles on the same day in May.

Williamson was called abusive and controlling after her failed 2020 presidential campaign, allegedly yelling at staffers until they cried, allegations she vehemently denied.

Williamsons campaign has lagged behind expectations, drawing criticism from establishment Democrats who question the challenge to an incumbent president. She has rebutted the claims, saying that not challenging President Biden is not democratic.

Somehow, they feel that the best way for us to fight a threat to democracy is to suppress democracy in our own house, Williamson said in March.

A campaign poll this week showed Williams receiving about 8 percent support, behind fellow Democratic candidate Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. and significantly behind Biden.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Kathleen Sorensen. @motherhoodessentials/Instagram via @henrykleeKTVU/Twitter

A California "mom influencer" was found guilty of knowingly making a false report of a crime.

Kathleen Sorensen accused a Latino couple of trying to kidnap her children.

"She was looking for content for her fame and her income," victim Sadie Martinez told Good Morning America.



A woman from California convicted in April of falsely accusing a Latino couple of trying to kidnap her children has been sentenced to three months in prison.

Kathleen "Katie" Sorensen, a self-styled "mom influencer," published a video in December 2020 claiming that a couple tried to kidnap her children at a Michaels craft store in Petaluma, California.

Sorensen visited the store with her two young children on December 7, 2020. After making a few purchases, she returned to her car with her children and set off, according to a Sonoma County District Attorney statement.

Minutes later, Sorensen called the Petaluma Police Department and said that a couple had tried to kidnap her children. A week later, she released a viral video on Instagram detailing her account of what had happened, adding "significant additional details" that she had not told the police.

"Monday of this week, my children were the targets of attempted kidnap," Sorensen said in the video, per Good Morning America. "I want to share that story with you to raise awareness of what signs to look for and encourage parents to be more aware of their surroundings."

According to NBC News, Sorensen described in the video how the couple had followed her into the store and commented on her children's appearances. She went on to say that the Latino couple had given her the "heebie-jeebies" and that they "weren't clean-cut individuals." The video was viewed over four million times, Good Morning America reported.

The police then interviewed her about the alleged incident, and Sorensen identified a Petaluma couple as the offenders. But the couple, Sadie and Eddie Martinez, identified themselves in a photo released by police and came forward to deny Sorensen's claims.

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"She wanted a stronger following. She was looking for content for her fame and her income  and at our expense," Sadie Martinez told Good Morning America in 2020.

Authorities dismissed the claims after looking at store security footage and speaking to the couple.

Judge Laura Passaglia sentenced Sorensen to a 90 days in prison, two months of which could be served on work release. The judge also told Sorensen to avoid any presence on social media for 12 months, during which time she would also have to agree to have her electronic devices searched and seized without a warrant and undergo four hours of implicit bias training. according to a statement from the local district attorney's office.

"Ms. Sorensen has been held accountable for her crime," District Attorney Carla Rodriguez said. "Our hope is that this measure of accountability will help provide some closure to the couple that was falsely accused of having attempted to kidnap two young children."

Charles Dresow, Sorensen's attorney, told Good Morning America that Sorensen had "misperceived and misunderstood a series of random events which were occurring around her and made an honest report to the police."

"I don't think she had any understanding of how this would spread and the impact it would cause," he added.

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It seems former US President Donald Trump didnt take the Mar-a-Lago cases judges warnings too seriously. While Trumps legal team is gearing up for not one, but multiple lengthy legal battles ahead of them, it seems Trump is just ignoring many warnings on who he can and cant talk to.

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Heres a bit of backstory: one of Trumps aides Walt Nauta has also been indicted over allegedly mishandling of classified documents with Trump. In fact, Nauta faces six total charges, including one about making false statements. Despite being a close staffer to Trump to this day, U.S. Magistrate Judge Jonathan Goodman ordered both of them not to speak about the case with one another, per Forbes.

Fast forward to June 30, and the two were seen out together in the streets of South Philadelphia during their visit to the Moms for Liberty Summit. Now, heres the problem: they still work together, so it makes sense that theyd be seen together. However, they werent working on Trumps campaign or checking out the summit: they were getting cheesesteaks.

Click here to read the full article.

In photos obtained by RadarOnline, Naulta and the Home Alone 2 star were seen at Pats King of Steaks, and from Nautas expression, he doesnt seem too happy that their luncheon was caught on someones phone.

Its unknown what the two were discussing, but being seen out for a more informal trip where it doesnt have to be strictly business talk is making people question a lot.

Before you go, click here to see presidential families over the years.



Barack Obama, Michelle Obama, Malia Obama, Sasha Obama

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Rainn Wilson on The Geography of Bliss

More so than ever before, there are a ton of great travel shows streaming and on TV, as well as incredible series like Ted Lasso that do a tremendous job of discussing mental health . But the list of programs that focus on both of those aspects in a great and organic way is incredibly short. Thats where Rainn Wilson and the Geography of Bliss comes in, as I have found out by watching the Peacock original series the past few weeks.

After starting the docuseries following The Office alum as he crosses the globe, I quickly realized that not only was this a wonderful travel documentary series but also something that goes much deeper than man explores various cultures and becomes an exploration of what makes people happy and sad, and what we can learn about ourselves from diving into these different communities and customs.

That being said, I just had to share some thoughts on the show that will definitely become something I revisit from time to time in the future.

Rainn Wilson on The Geography of Bliss

The Geography Of Bliss Is A Tremendously In-Depth Travel Doc

If youre familiar with shows like Netflixs Somebody Feed Phil that follow a hilarious host as they dive head-first into new cultures, customs, and even exotic cuisines, then youll feel right at home with Rainn Wilson and the Geography of Bliss. The Weird: The Al Yankovic Story star spends the shows five episodes exploring the terrain and cultures in places like Iceland, Bulgaria, Ghana, Thailand, and even in Los Angeles before it wraps up.

The viewer, like Wilson, learns a tremendous amount about the people and customs of those five locations in a fun yet informative way. Basically, this is a long way of saying the series isnt like those old travel docs typical narration (though Wilsons voice-over work adds a lot to the show), and instead something fresh, unique, and a little punk rock, if that makes sense.

Rainn Wilson on The Geography of Bliss

No Surprise, But The Geography Of Bliss Is Incredibly Uplifting

This shouldnt come as a surprise since its in the name of the show, but Rainn Wilson and the Geography of Bliss is an incredibly uplifting show; like one of the most positive docuseries Ive seen in a long time. The first episode, titled Happiness is a Bottle of Cod Liver Oil, follows the actor as he travels to Iceland and learns about how the locals have found bliss, happiness, and joy despite living in such an unforgiving and isolated part of the world, one that is shrouded in darkness for large chunks of the year.

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And that theme pretty much carries on throughout the remaining four chapters, which see Wilson go to places like Bulgaria, which is apparently considered by some to be one of the unhappiest places on the planet . Even in the toughest of settings with people who arent all that welcoming to strangers (or conversation), the eager traveler finds people who are not only surviving, but happy and thriving.

Rainn Wilson on The Geography of Bliss

But This Doesn't Mean The Show Is Too Cheery

Though Rainn Wilson is in the pursuit of happiness and the meaning of it through the series, its not an overly cheery show. Its friendly and optimistic but also pragmatic and not sugar coated. The daily problems, issues with society, and mental health (more on that later) of the various strangers who welcome him into their lives and homes are a major part of each episode. This approach, which sees both the good and bad of each situation, provides for an incredible experience that makes you go through the whole gamut of emotions.

Rainn Wilson on The Geography of Bliss

Rainn Wilson Opens Up The Conversation About Mental Health

If you want to see how Rainn Wilson and the Geography of Bliss is different from other travel shows, just watch the first few minutes of the premiere episode. In his opening narration, Wilson opens up about his mental health struggles and all the ways hes tried to address them in the past. Meeting multiple therapists, reading several self-help books, and even journaling all couldnt help the actor overcome feelings of depression, feeling less than, and being lost in it all.

And so, what does someone do when the experts, best-selling books, and other standard solutions dont work? They set out to find happiness out there in the world, hiding in some of the places youd least expect. And Wilson does just that by setting off to explore happiness and get a grip on his own mental health by asking those questions and getting the answers in a way hed least expect.

Wilsons openness and honesty is one of the things that makes The Geography of Bliss such a fun show to watch.

Rainn Wilson on The Geography of Bliss

The Office Alum Is Hilarious Throughout The Series

Even though Rainn Wilson and the Geography of Bliss touches on some heavy topics like depression, anxiety, and isolation, that doesnt mean the show isnt absolutely hilarious, because it is. This should come as no surprise considering the shows host brought one of the funniest characters on The Office to life with his portrayal of Dwight Schrute all those years. And while he doesnt fall for any Jim Halpert-level pranks , Wilson shows off his distinct sense of humor throughout the show.

Its impressive how Wilson can make light of his struggles with mental health while not disregarding them. This could honestly further open the door for more conversations about depression, in showing that it's something many people deal with. And the comedic yet earnest way he goes about this is both funny and impactful.

Rainn Wilson on The Geography of Bliss

It's A Show About Self-Discovery

The best trips are those where you know more about yourself and new cultures at the end than you did at the start, and thats very much the case for Rainn Wilson and the Geography of Bliss. At the start of the series, the Star Trek Discovery actor says hes always struggled with anxiety and depression (like so many of us) and that he started the journey to figure out what makes people happy. And in doing so, the actor, and self-described mope, does just that.

This is not to say he figures everything out and no longer deals with mental health matters, but he does have a shift in perspective after spending all this time speaking with all these different people and the various ways they find bliss, joy, and happiness in their own unique way. He also comes out of the experience with a greater sense of gratitude, which is something we could all use these days.

Related Story:

The Offices Rainn Wilson Just Made An Over-The-Top Name Change To Raise Awareness About Needed Climate Action

Overall, Rainn Wilson and the Geography of Bliss was an incredible, thoughtful, and enjoyable experience, one that can be watched in full with a Peacock Premium subscription . If you want to know what other new and returning shows are coming to the streaming platform (and others like it), check out our 2023 TV schedule .
Life in the spotlight isn't always rosy.

Which is why Tayshia Adams has decided to keep her private life, well, more private these days.

"My life was pretty exposed at one point. Nothing was really my own," the former Bachelorette explained to E! News in an exclusive interview. "And I think there's a lot of beauty in that because you create a community of people that really care about you, and want to see you do well, and root for you. But also, at the same time, it's not normal to have every aspect of your life out there."

It's a move Tayshia knows she's making for the right reasons.

"I had to take a step back because, I think as a human, you look for validation everywhere, and [it] just was becoming an unhealthy thing for me," she continued. "So, there are some aspects of my life that I like to keep a little bit private. When I'm ready to announce things, then I'll do it. But other than that, it's just a balance of what you're OK with."

Bachelor Nation's Still-Rosy Romances

Finding this threshold has been a journeyone Tayshia says has been influenced by having her love life play out in front of the world.

"I had a public relationship," noted the reality starwho got engaged to Zac Clark on her 2020 season of The Bachelorette only to split the following year. "So I think with that, it evolved with people involved and that's not very normal. And it's really hard to go through a public breakup as well. So I think that's probably made me a little bit more closed off to sharing every vulnerable aspect of my liferightfully so. Just having a public relationship was a little taxing on me."

Gotham/GC Images

Perhaps that's why Tayshia is now staying tight-lipped on her relationship status after an April Instagram photo fueled speculation that she's dating Summer House's Luke Gulbranson.

Still, the 32-year-old has been sharing other aspects of her life with her 1.5 million Instagram followers. These include her travels, such as her trip to Dubai with her mom in January, her May getaway to Italy for fellow Bachelorette alum Andi Dorfman's wedding and her recent trip to Greece as part of her paid partnership with Uber.

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"We were able to drive around and see all these sights," Tayshia said, noting she traveled by Uber Taxi, Comfort and Boat. "Which is probably the best way to do it because I feel like walking around the entire city would do some miles on my shoes." And unlike those famed Bachelor dates, she very much enjoyed the food. "I don't think I've ever had so many Greek salads in my life," she added. "But I am now craving it, and it is on the menu for everything that I am having."

Tayshia Adams

Also on the agenda: Making good on her New Year's vow to cherish every bit of what 2023 brings.

"I would say so," she told E! when asked if the year has been living up to her expectations. "I am honestly living life to the absolute fullest. I am doing what's best for me. I'm extremely happy right now....I'm really blessed with amazing partnerships and jobs and also just really good people that are surrounding me. So, I think it's living up to it, but we got six more months so"

Fans will just have to stay tuned. But for now, it looks like things are coming up roses for Tayshia.

Get the latest bachelor headlines & top stories. Sign up for Bachelor Beat!
WAR IN UKRAINE

Satellite images analyzed by the Associated Press on Saturday showed what appeared to be a newly built military-style camp in Belarus, with statements from a Belarusian guerrilla group and officials suggesting it may be used to house fighters from the Wagner mercenary group.

The images suggest that dozens of tents were erected within the past two weeks at a former military base outside Osipovichi, a town about 140 miles north of the Ukrainian border. A satellite photo taken on Jun. 15 shows no sign of the rows of white and green structures that are clearly visible in a later image, dated Friday.

Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin and his fighters escaped prosecution and were offered refuge in Belarus last week after Minsk helped broker a deal to end what appeared to be an armed insurrection by the mercenary group.

The abortive revolt saw Wagner troops who had fought alongside Russian forces in Ukraine capture a military headquarters in southern Russia and march hundreds of miles toward Moscow, seemingly unimpeded.

Belarus' authoritarian president, Alexander Lukashenko, said his country, a close and dependent ally of Moscow, could use Wagner's experience and expertise, and announced that he offered the fighters an "abandoned military unit" to set up camp.

Aliaksandr Azarau, leader of the anti-Lukashenko BYPOL guerrilla group of former military members, told The Associated Press by phone on Thursday that construction of a site for Wagner mercenaries was underway near Osipovichi.

Up to 8,000 fighters from Wagner's private military force may be deployed in Belarus, a spokesperson for Ukraine's border force told Ukrainian media Saturday. Speaking to the Ukrainska Pravda newspaper, Andriy Demchenko said Ukraine would strengthen its 674-mile border with Belarus in response.

Demchenko told Ukrainska Pravda on Saturday that as of this week, some 2,000 troops from regular Russian army units also remained stationed in Belarus.

Meanwhile, Ukrainian officials reported more civilian casualties from Russian shelling in the country's east and south on Saturday, as Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez began a visit to Kyiv as a show of continuing support from Madrid and the European Union for Ukraine's fight to dislodge invading Russian forces.

In an address to Ukraine's parliament that received several standing ovations, Sanchez said, "We'll be with you as long as it takes."

"I am here to express the firm determination of the European (Union) and Europe against the illegal and unjustified Russian aggression to Ukraine," he said as Spain took over the six-month rotating presidency of the 27-nation EU.

At a later news conference with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Sanchez announced Spain would deliver more heavy weaponry to Ukraine including four Leopard tanks and armored personnel carriers, as well as a portable field hospital. He also said Spain will provide an additional 55 million euros to help with reconstruction needs.

Elsewhere in Ukraine, regional officials reported that at least three civilians were killed and 17 wounded by Russian shelling on Friday and overnight in the frontline eastern Donetsk region, where fierce battles are raging, Donetsk Gov. Pavlo Kyrylenko said.
(Photo Illustration by Sheldon Cooper/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images)

The New York Times is under fire after including "death" as one of the options out of student loan debt after the Supreme Court blocked the Biden administration's plan to forgive them.

The newspaper published an article explaining six ways to get rid of student loan debt soon after the Supreme Court decision on Friday. Suggestions included making an income-driven repayment, appealing for public service loan forgiveness, bankruptcy and disability discharges, and more.

Under the section that had "death" in the subhead, the article read, "This is not something that most people would choose as a solution to their debt burden" and added federal student loan debt "dies with the person or people who take it on."

"NYT what the fuck are you doing bro," Katelyn Burns tweeted while Louis Peitzman added, "Is the New York Times recommending... choosing death as an option for debt holders?"

Kelsey D. Atherton tweeted, "Time to check in one of the six remaining ways the New York Times says student debt holders can get relief. [touches earpiece] Ah. So that's how it's going."

"We've reached the point where The New York Times is suggesting death as a viable solution to crushing student debt," wrote former Secretary of Labor Robert Reich.

NYT what the fuck are you doing bro pic.twitter.com/mK6WbLLsPZ  Katelyn Burns (@transscribe) June 30, 2023

Twitter: @transscribe

Is the New York Times recommending... choosing death as an option for debt holders? https://t.co/oBssMVXFTM  Louis Peitzman (@LouisPeitzman) June 30, 2023

Twitter: @LouisPeitzman

Time to check in one of the six remaining ways the New York Times says student debt holders can get relief.[touches earpiece]Ah. So that's how it's going https://t.co/yiRVlmhZsJ pic.twitter.com/ssPMgCfhun  Kelsey D. Atherton, now available on Bluesky (@AthertonKD) June 30, 2023

Twitter: @AthertonKD

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We've reached the point where The New York Times is suggesting death as a viable solution to crushing student debt. https://t.co/dGss9JjP3h  Robert Reich (@RBReich) June 30, 2023

Twitter: @RBReich

On Friday, the Supreme Court voted 6-3 to effectively cancel President Biden's student loan plan that would have cleared up to $20,000 for tens of millions of Americans. 43 million Americans were eligible for the relief plan.

Student loan payments were put on pause during the COVID-19 pandemic and are set to continue being collected after August comes to a close. Payments will be due in October, NBC News notes.

More on this
Staffers with the L.A. County Department of Public Health cart away paperwork and other items after checking on migrants, newly arrived from Texas, Saturday at St. Anthony Croatian Catholic Church. (Raul Roa / Los Angeles Times)

Another bus carrying dozens of migrants from Texas arrived Saturday afternoon at Union Station in downtown Los Angeles, courtesy of the governor and taxpayers of the Lone Star State.

The 41 asylum seekers arrived about 12:40 p.m. and were received by the L.A. Welcomes Collective, a network of nonprofit, faith and immigrant rights groups, officials said in a statement. The migrants are from Colombia, El Salvador, Guatemala, Mexico, Cuba, Venezuela, Belize and Nicaragua.

"With great love and dignity, we extend a warm welcome to our newly arrived brothers and sisters in Los Angeles," said Martha Arevalo, executive director of American Resource Center-Los Angeles (CARECEN), one of the groups providing resources and support.

A temporary welcome center was set up at nearby St. Anthony Croatian Catholic Church.

Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass said in a statement that her office learned about the bus Friday and immediately began coordinating with the collective, as well as with city and county departments, to assist the migrants upon their arrival.

"The City of Los Angeles believes in treating everyone with respect and dignity and will do so," Bass said.

The migrants were recently paroled by the Border Patrol and voluntarily boarded the bus in Brownsville, Texas, for the 1,600-mile journey, officials said. This is the second bus to arrive from the Texas-Mexico border in just over two weeks, after Texas Gov. Greg Abbott announced Los Angeles as the latest Democrat-run city to which his state will bus migrants.

A welcome center was set up at the church in downtown L.A. (Raul Roa / Los Angeles Times)

Since April 2022, Texas has bused more than 22,000 migrants to New York, Chicago, Philadelphia, Denver and Washington, D.C. The first bus to L.A., carrying 42 migrants from McAllen, Texas, arrived June 14.

At the time, local activists formed the L.A. Welcomes Collective to assist those migrants. In addition to CARECEN, the collective includes the Archdiocese of Los Angeles, the Coalition for Humane Immigrant Right, Clergy and Laity United for Economic Justice, Esperanza Immigrant Rights Project and Immigrant Defenders Law Center.

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On Friday, members of that coalition were alerted by the city of Brownsville that a second bus was on its way, and aid workers began preparing to greet the passengers and provide them with food, clothing, shelter and health and legal services.

Guerline Jozef, executive director of the Haitian Bridge Alliance, said the group had worked with partners in Texas to ensure that everyone boarding the bus had family, court dates, or both waiting for them in Los Angeles. She said she had been assured that everyone making the trip was given options for meals and plenty of water.

Healthcare workers were on hand to assist the arrivals. (Raul Roa / Los Angeles Times)

All passengers voluntarily boarded the state-funded buses from Texas, officials said. Abbott has said the buses are a form of protest against Democrats' immigration policies, but many migrants have been eager to accept the free ride to cities where they could reunite with loved ones. This has led immigrant aid organizations along the Texas border to collaborate with the busing program, even if they refrain from endorsing Abbott's political message.

"The Haitian Bridge Alliance absolutely condemns Gov. Abbott's policies and [his practice of] using the lives of extremely vulnerable people ... for political games," Jozef said.

However, she acknowledged that, for many migrants, the buses are an opportunity to reunite with family.

The Los Angeles City Council recently approved a motion, referred to as a sanctuary city law, that would essentially codify existing policies around the use of city resources for federal immigration enforcement, including a 2017 executive directive issued by then-Mayor Eric Garcetti.

In June, 36 migrants were sent to Sacramento on chartered flights arranged under the direction of Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, a Republican candidate for president who has been critical of President Biden's immigration policies. The migrants from Central and South America were voluntarily driven by bus from Texas to New Mexico, where they boarded flights to California.

Documents carried by the migrants showed that the flights were arranged through the Florida Division of Emergency Management and that they were part of the states program to relocate migrants, mostly from Texas, to other states. Their transportation was paid for by the state of Florida.

The contractor for the program was Vertol Systems Co., which last year coordinated similar flights that took dozens of Venezuelan asylum seekers from San Antonio to Marthas Vineyard in Massachusetts. The matter is being investigated by the California state attorney general's office.

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This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
DOVER  A bill that would change how Strafford County commissioners are elected  supported by state Sen. James Gray, R-Rochester  passed by the slimmest of margins Thursday. The legislation on one small county race has become the source of a growing political battle in New Hampshire with Democrats calling it unconstitutional gerrymandering.

House Bill 75 was passed by the House by one vote 186-185, Thursday and by the Senate, 14-10, along party lines.

If Republican Gov. Chris Sununu signs the bill into law, the 2024 county election would be set to feature three separate districts for Strafford County commissioners, rather than the top three vote getters countywide being elected. It would also mean longtime County Commission Chairman George Maglaras would have to run against Commissioner Deanna Rollo in a Democratic primary, if both seek reelection next year.

Strafford County Commissioner Chairman George Maglaras vows to fight House Bill 75 in the New Hampshire Supreme Court if it becomes law.

"I am seeking a meeting with the governor," Maglaras said after Thursday's vote. "I will ask him to veto the bill. If that doesn't happen, we will challenge the bill in New Hampshire Supreme Court."

Is House Bill 75 unconstitutional? Republicans and Democrats disagree

Democrats have dominated Strafford County commissioner elections for many years. Maglaras, who has served since 1983, serves currently with fellow Democrats Robert Watson and Rollo. The last Republican commissioner was in office in 2011-12, according to county records.

Gray has argued districts should be created to give smaller towns in Strafford County more representation. He also pointed out nine of 10 county commissioner elections in the state have districts. Strafford County is the only one that does not.

More Strafford County news: Sheriff Mark Brave faces criminal investigation by NH attorney general

Redistricting of voting maps happens nationally every 10 years, following the once-a-decade Census. Gray helped lead that process in New Hampshire last year with Republicans in majority control. Numerous election districts were changed in the state, but no changes were made to the Strafford County commissioner election at that time.

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Maglaras and other Democrats said state lawmakers need to wait for the next 10-year cycle and making changes now would be unconstitutional.

New Hampshire state Sen. Jim Gray, R-Rochester, defended the constitutionality of House Bill 75, adding districts to the Strafford County commissioner election.

Gray said an attorney told him "districting is different than redistricting," meaning this change isn't part of the redistricting because there are no districts for Strafford County commissioners. Gray said another attorney advised him that since no action was taken on Strafford County commissioners during the redistricting process last year, "we still have our once-in-10-years opportunity."

Sununu's office did not immediately respond to a request for comment on whether he will sign the bill and whether he feels it is constitutional.

"I am proud of this piece of legislation, so all the people of Strafford County are represented," Gray said when testifying about the bill Thursday. "There is a predominance of Democrats here and my constituents is New Durham, Farmington, Strafford and six wards in Rochester came to me. I heard from people in Lee, Milton, Middleton and Barrington. This bill will elect representatives in the same way all the other counties do."

Leading Democrats in Concord have spoken out.

Representative Laurel Stavis, D-Lebanon, ranking Democrat on the House Municipal and County Government Committee, said "HB 75 is a brazen partisan effort to change the make-up of Strafford County commissioners outside of the established redistricting process. ...This bill sets a dangerous precedent of annually reopening the once-a-decade redistricting process and will result in instability and chaos. Rigging districts for partisan gain breeds distrust among voters and is not the New Hampshire way. I strongly encourage Gov. Sununu to veto this unwarranted, partisan power-grab.

Sen. Donna Soucy, the Democratic Party leader in the state Senate, and Democratic Sens. David Watters of Dover and Rebecca Perkins Kwoka of Portsmouth, whose district includes Strafford County towns, issued a joint statement.

It is essential that we as legislators stand by the laws and practices, we have established for ourselves, but especiallywhen it comes to one of our most sacred responsibilities: the redistricting process. The redistricting process is tremendously important as it is essential to ensuring fairness and integrity in our democratic election process."The senators noted redistricting is meant to be taken up every 10 years, following the U.S. Census.

"When we did so, nearly two years ago, we did not hear requests from Strafford County officials or residents to implement the changes proposed in HB 75," they said. "Therefore, there is no way to interpret this change in the district lines to be anything except partisan gerrymandering. We are deeply disappointed that House and Senate Republicans have chosen to take us down this dark path by further politicizing our redistricting process, but, given the starkly partisan nature of this legislation, we expect that this will not be the end of Granite Staters fight to protect democracy in our great state.

Why would county's largest communities be split into separate districts?

House Bill 75 would create three districts. The cities of Rochester and Dover, by far the most populous in the county at more than 30,000 each, would each be part of two districts. Gray was asked to respond to critics who point to this as part of their claims of gerrymandering.

"It's impossible to do math that keeps Rochester or Dover all together," Gray said. "Especially Dover, where you've got Rollinsford that doesn't touch anything other than Dover and Somersworth. It's the only way you can get the numbers to work and have even districts."

Gray also responded to Democrats who howled in protest over a legislative maneuver that kept House Bill 75 alive. When the bill was in a committee of conference, Republicans needed a unanimous vote to advance it. They got a 5-2 vote with two Democrats voting against it. The Democrats were kicked off the committee of conference and replaced by Republicans. The next vote was unanimous. Otherwise the legislation would never have reached Thursday's House and Senate votes.

"If you look back at committees of conference going back as long as I've been in Legislature, it is not unusual that members who disagree are replaced by members who will agree," Gray said. "That is all balanced out by having vote at the end so every one of the legislators gets to express their opinion. While it was a closer vote than most, the will of the majority of the legislators is what prevailed."

This article originally appeared on Fosters Daily Democrat: NH Strafford County commissioner election bill passes by 1 vote
A trip to Matera, Italy, will take you back in time.

Michela Sieman/Travel + Leisure

Tucked inside the arch of Italys boot, Matera could have easily disappeared into the annals of history  the community was inhabited some 10,000 years before falling into disrepair, and was completely deserted in the 1970s. But, through the sheer force and determination of locals, plus several strategic investments, the long-standing town managed to not just survive, but thrive  in 2019, it was named a European Capital of Culture, and is considered one of the most beautiful places in all of Italy.

Michela Sieman/Travel + Leisure

After having lived outside Matera for twelve years, on my return, the perception of my territory had completely changed, Antonio Russo, a tour guide who grew up just outside Materas borders, shared with Travel+Leisure. I realized I was living in a unique city, and I was fascinated by its millenary history, by the ancestral strength of its stones, by the architectural complexity, and by the genuineness of the food. It is an extraordinarily rich place for travelers who have great artistic and culinary sensibilities. In Matera, we can observe how men have been able, over the centuries, to coexist with the landscape, indulging nature without distorting it.

font83/Getty Images

If that description doesnt make you want to book a flight immediately, we arent sure what will. To help you in your (inevitable) planning, weve gathered up a few key sights to see, hotels to stay in, and foods to try, so you can experience this enchanting destination to its fullest.

Related: 12 Best Small Towns in Italy

Best Hotels & Resorts

Aquatio Cave Luxury Hotel & Spa in Matera

Aquatio Cave Luxury Hotel & Spa leans into the regions understandable adoration of its caves. The five-star accommodation is designed so that visitors feel like they stepped back in time, all the way to Materas beginnings thousands of years ago. Your room within tuff (or stone) walls does come with all the modern amenities you need for a great stay  all 35 rooms and suites are decked out in plush furnishings, and guests have access to a massive wellness spa and a swimming pool carved directly into the rock.

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Palazzo Gattini

Another luxury option is Palazzo Gattini, a 20-room property that expertly mixes old and new, including contemporary furnishings and treasured antiques. Relax in the oversized suites, head to the rooftop for a drink with a spectacular view, or book a massage at the underground spa.

SantAngelo Luxury Resort

Experience unabashed elegance at SantAngelo Luxury Resort. Located in the heart of a historic square in town, the property makes for a stellar jumping-off point for the rest of your adventures around Matera. Once again, you get to sleep in a modern cave room, and you'll wake up to gorgeous vistas of the old town from your picture window.

Michela Sieman/Travel + Leisure

Best Things to Do

Hike Murgia Materana Park.

Explore caves, historic churches, and endless hiking trails leading to breathtaking vistas with a visit to Murgia Materana Park. Getting here does take some dedication, though. Travelers need to hike from Sassi di Matera, heading downhill first only to head straight back up, but the bountiful views are worth the sweat spent on the journey.

Take a tour with an expert.

See and do as much as possible in one tour with Russo. On his two-hour, private walks, Russo takes travelers around the city and highlights the neighborhoods and the areas history as they stroll the streets on morning or evening outings. We will show you the cave houses, the rupestrian churches completely dug into the rocks, the conduits, and the underground cisterns, Russo explained. Stops at sites with neolithic graffiti and medieval and hidden frescoes are other itinerary perks.

Visit the Church of Saint Mary of Idris.

Michela Sieman/Travel + Leisure

Matera is filled with historic churches, and as you can tell from its hotel selection, plentiful cave dwellings, too. Yet none is as magical as the Church of Saint Mary of Idris. This tiny church welcomes visitors, who usually come to gaze upon what remains of its frescoes. But its not just the views inside that are special. Make sure to walk around the churchs exterior for a fantastic view of the town, then look back at the church to see how its built directly into a cliff.

Find contemporary pieces at Museo della Scultura Contemporanea Matera.

Not everything you do in Matera has to be old; just spend a little time at Museo della Scultura Contemporanea Matera to see what we mean. This art museum may be housed inside a 17th-century palace, but that just makes it modern sculpture collection (crafted from the 1800s onward) feel all the more intriguing.

Michela Sieman/Travel + Leisure

Best Restaurants

Trattoria del Caveoso

Cant get enough time in Materas caves? Make a reservation at Trattoria del Caveoso, a restaurant tucked into a cliff. Here, guests can dig into plates of fresh pasta, grilled sausages, and beef filet, all perfectly paired with regional wines.

Il Rusticone

Grab a no-fuss but still highly delicious lunch at Il Rusticone, a restaurant specializing in mouth-watering pizzas. Pasta and sandwiches are on the menu, too, but pizza really is the thing here. Order a classic Margherita or Napoli, or spice things up with a Diavola.

Vitantonio Lombardo

Plan an elegant evening out with reservations at Vitantonio Lombardo Ristorante. Located in a grotto, the restaurant is the recipient of one Michelin star, thanks to chef Vitantonio Lombardos visionary tasting menus. Have a shorter dinner with a five-course menu, or stay the whole evening and go for 10.

Michela Sieman/Travel + Leisure

Best Time To Visit

Thanks to its privileged location in Southern Italy, Matera tends to have mild winters, making it a year-round destination. Note that summers here can get very warm, so if you cant stand heat, visit in the fall or spring (ideally late April to early June, and late September to early November), when temperatures hover in the 60s and 70s.

There is, however, one reason to travel to Matera in the midst of summer, and that is to take part in the Madonna Della Bruna festival, an event honoring the citys patron saint. Its held every year on July 2, and it includes parades, parties, and plenty of fireworks.

Michela Sieman/Travel + Leisure

How to Get There

By Air

The closest airport to Matera is the Bari Palese Airport, some 37 miles away. Once you fly into Bari Palese, hop on a shuttle bus with direct service offered by Miccolis, Cotrab, or Grassani E Garofalo.

By Bus

The easiest way to get to Matera is by bus. There are buses to and from Matera via major metropolitan areas in Italy, including Rome and Florence. Seek out the options and schedules available on both the Marozzi and Liscio bus lines.

By Train

Travelers can also get to Matera via train, but these tend to be very long rides. For example, travelers can board a train from Rome to Matera Centrale Station and while romantic, the journey takes more than seven hours one way.

Getting Around

On Foot

Getting around Matera definitely requires solid walking shoes. Its narrow streets werent built with future cars in mind, so make sure to pack your most comfortable kicks.

Taxis

Taxis are available in Matera, but they may not be able to make it through smaller streets, meaning you will likely still have to walk a bit to your final destination.



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Read the original article on Travel & Leisure.
Disney

More than 40 years after he first took up the now-iconic hat and whip in Raiders of the Lost Ark, Harrison Ford is back as the adventuring archaeologist Dr. Henry Jones, Jr. in Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny, the fifth movie in the long-running franchise and the first installment to not be directed by Steven Spielberg.

Set primarily in 1969, Dial of Destiny catches up with Jones on the brink of retirement as he looks back on his past adventures. He is convinced his globe-trotting, treasure-hunting, Nazi-punching days are behind him, until his goddaughter Helena (Phoebe Waller-Bridge) shows up and convinces him to join her on a quest to find a powerful device before it falls into the wrong hands.

The last time Ford played Jones it was in the divisive Kingdom of the Crystal Skull, a mess of a movie which riffed on 1950s sci-fi in the same way that the earlier films paid tribute to the pulpy serials of the 1930s and 40s. This time around, however, Ford seems genuinely interested to be revisiting the character of Indiana Jones, playing him with more layers as a man in much later life.

With Dial of Destiny sure to win over a whole new generation of Indy fans, and given Ford's renewed enthusiasm for the role, it makes perfect sense that people are wondering if this movie will lead into another sequel. Here's what we know about the future of the Indiana Jones franchise.

Disney

Will there be an Indiana Jones 6?

The short answer is no. While an Indiana Jones streaming series has been rumored for a while, Ford confirmed in April 2023 that this will be his last performance as Jones, and the last movie in the series.

"This is the final film in the series, and this is the last time I'll play the character," he said. "I anticipate that it will be the last time that he appears in a film."



That said, the introduction of Waller-Bridge's character Helena, much like Shia LaBoeuf in Crystal Skull, leaves the door open for a "next generation"-style continuation of the franchise set in the wider world of ancient artefacts and mythology.

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(Instagram @joesthetics)

Bodybuilder Jo Lindner, known online has Joesthetics, has died from an aneurysm in Thailand, aged 30.

The news was confirmed by the fitness influencers girlfriend Nicha on Saturday (1 July).

Posting pictures of herself with Lindner on her Instagram feed, Nicha paid tribute to the YouTuber she desribed as sweet, kind, and hardworking.

And he is the believer in EVERYONE, she continued. specially [sic] ME he believes in me that I could be better and be someone in this world.

Lindner had 8.4 million Instagram followers, and his YouTube videos reportedly earned over 500 million views.

Nicha said Lindner suffered an aneurysm after complaining of a pain in his neck earlier this week.She also said she was with him when he died.

An aneurysm is an abnormal swelling or bulge in the wall of a blood vessel.

[The] Last word he said [to me]: Bae we all always can start again and that is the key. always keep start [sic] again, she later wrote on her Instagram Stories.

Subsequently, Nicha appeared to address speculation around Lindners cause of death, writing its unfair to her partner that people guess how he die [sic] or say he overdose.

She added that if Lindner was brave enough to admit he used steroids, there was no reason not to believe him.

In an interview with fellow bodybuilder Bradley Martyn last month, Lindner spoke about being diagnosed with rippling muscle disease.

Earlier in June, in an interview for an episode of fellow YouTuber Bradley Martyns show Raw Talk, he spoke about having a rare genetic condition that causes muscles to become unsually sensitive to movement or pressure.

According to the Genetic and Rare Diseases Information Center (GARD), the disorder is characterised by signs of increased muscle irritability such as repetitive tensing of the muscle, bunching up of the muscle, and/or prominent rippling.

Technically, its a cramp, Lindner told Martyn.

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After news of Lindners death broke, fellow bodybuilder Noel Deyzel confirmed the reports were true on his Instagram Stories.

This is not a joke. His mother requested that we inform people about the situation, he wrote. Please keep Jo and his loved ones in your prayers.

I still just cant f***ing believe it. Rest in peace brother.

Another one of Lindners friends, known as Vigorous Steve, posted a YouTube video shortly after his death, explaining that the cause of death reports were based on preliminary findings.

Were still waiting for the autopsy reports, he added.
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is standing pat on Lake Okeechobee management this week, sending none of the algae-ridden water to the east or west coasts.

Lake Okeechobee is high for this time of year at 14.6 feet, and there are nearly four months left in the rainy season.

To drain the lake, the Army Corps has historically sent water to the Caloosahatchee and St. Lucie rivers. Both systems were connected to the lake around a century ago to help drain the historic Everglades for farming and development.

A great blue heron perches on a piling just down river from the Franklin Locks on the Caloosahatchee River on Friday, June 30, 2023.

"We're still targeting 2,000 cfs (cubic feet per second) at the W.P. Franklin Lock and Dam," said Savanah Lacy, chief of water management for the Army Corps' Jacksonville district (which includes all of Florida). "The local basin runoff has been exceeding those flows."

What does that mean?

The Army Corps is not releasing the nutrient-laden waters to the Caloosahatchee River at this point in the summer.

Toxic algae already in Fort Myers

Thats good because there is already a toxic algae bloom on the river in the downtown Fort Myers area, and adding Lake Okeechobee water, at this point, could make conditions worse.

"We're seeing a good bit of algae throughout Lake Okeechobee and throughout the canals," Lacy said. "And conditions are prime for a bloom. We've been working with the FDEP (Florida Department of Environmental Protection) and (South Florida) water management district to treat these blooms as needed."

Flows this month at the W.P. Franklin Lock and Dam ranged between 0 cubic feet per second and 5,000 cubic feet per second, according to Army Corps records.

Healthy flows for the river range from around 400 cubic feet per second to 2,800 cubic feet per second, as measured at the lock.

A manatee feeds on plants just up river of the Franklin Locks on the Caloosahatchee River on Friday, June 30, 2023.

More: Study: Reef shark populations declining around the world

The Franklin Lock and Dam is the dividing line between the upper, freshwater portion of the river and the lower, estuarine portion.

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Measuring flows here is important because it shows how much freshwater is entering the coastal system. Too little or too much water is bad for sea grasses and oyster beds  the basis of the marine food chain.

Lake surface levels are high for this time of year

The surface of Lake Okeechobee Friday was at 14.6 feet above sea level and rising, according to South Florida Water Management District records.

That's 20.5 inches higher than the lake was at this time last year.

Heavy rains or a tropical storm or hurricane could force the Army Corps to make large-scale releases to at least the Caloosahatchee River.

The Caloosahatchee is much larger in size than the St. Lucie estuary, so it can take more lake discharges, water managers say.

Lacy said she's not sure when releases to the Caloosahatchee River will start this summer.

"It's pretty hard to tell," she said. "Things are very dependent on rainfall and any hurricanes or storms that we get. (But) we don't have any need in the immediate future to make releases."

What does the water look like?

The Caloosahatchee River estuary varies in water quality and clarity throughout the year.

"I'm seeing rain water from the tidal areas and we're seeing tannin water released from the mangroves," said Calusa Waterkeeper Codty Pierce. "The outgoing tides with the full moon, you see the exit  it is mixing, but it seems to be mostly toward the end of the tides. During the day with strong incoming tides it looks pretty, but that's just the saltwater pushing it back.

A fisherman tries his luck on the Caloosahatchee River on Friday, June 30, 2023.

More: What is chronic wasting disease? And what is CWD doing to Florida's deer?

Pierce said he thinks the bloom will expand considering warm water and air temperatures as well as plenty of nutrients flowing off the watershed.

"The next few weeks, the Fourth of July is when things start to mount," Pierce said. "It's probably going to happen within the next couple of weeks."

Connect with this reporter: Chad Gillis on Facebook.

This article originally appeared on Fort Myers News-Press: Algae update: No immediate releases from Lake O planned
An Oklahoma sheriff who allegedly participated in a secretly recorded conversation that included racist remarks about lynching Black people and comments about killing journalists will not face criminal charges and cannot be removed from office, the states attorney general announced Friday.

In a letter to Oklahoma Gov. Kevin Stitt on Friday, the states Attorney General Gentner Drummond said his office completed an investigation and found no evidence that McCurtain County Sheriff Kevin Clardy committed any criminal act in the audio, which caused nationwide outrage. Drummond, a Republican, said state law doesnt allow elected officials to be ousted merely for saying something offensive.

McCurtain County is in southeastern Oklahoma, about 200 miles from Oklahoma City.

In April, Stitt, who is also Republican, asked Gentner to conduct an investigation after the McCurtain Gazette-News newspaper published audio it said was recorded following a Board of Commissioners meeting on March 6.

The paper said the audio of the meeting was legally obtained, but the McCurtain County Sheriffs Office said in a statement that it was illegally recorded and was investigating. The sheriffs office also said it believed the recording had been altered.

I am both appalled and disheartened to hear of the horrid comments made by officials in McCurtain County, Stitt said in a statement in April. There is simply no place for such hateful rhetoric in the state of Oklahoma, especially by those that serve to represent the community through their respective office. I will not stand idly by while this takes place, the statement said.

Stitt swiftly called on the four county officials allegedly heard speaking in the audio recording to resign, including Clardy, District 2 Commissioner Mark Jennings, sheriffs investigator Alicia Manning and jail administrator Larry Hendrix.

Jennings announced in a handwritten letter in April that he was resigning effective immediately after the recording was published, CNN previously reported.

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Audio came after local journalist filed lawsuit

The recording was made hours after Gazette-News reporter Chris Willingham filed a lawsuit against the sheriffs office, Manning and the Board of County Commissioners, alleging they had defamed him and violated his civil rights, the newspaper reported.

According to a report by The Oklahoman on the audio, Jennings said, Oh, youre talking about you cant control yourself? and Manning replied: Yeah, I aint worried about what hes gonna do to me. Im worried about what I might do to him. My papaw would have whipped his a**, would have wiped him and used him for toilet paper  if my daddy hadnt been run over by a vehicle, he would have been down there.

Jennings replied that his father was once upset by something the newspaper published and started to go down there and just kill him, according to the Gazette-News.

I know where two big, deep holes are here if you ever need them, Jennings allegedly said, according to a federal lawsuit filed by the reporter. Clardy allegedly responded by saying he had the equipment.

Ive got an excavator, Clardy is accused of saying during the discussion. Well, these are already pre-dug, Jennings allegedly said.

In his response to the civil lawsuit, Clardy denied that he encouraged or tolerated retaliation against Willingham for his newspaper stories.

In other parts of the recording, officials expressed disappointment that Black people could no longer be lynched, according to The Oklahoman report.

CNN has not been able to verify the authenticity of the recording or confirm who said what.

In his letter to the governor  who unsuccessfully asked Clardy to resign voluntarily  Drummond wrote, To the extent you remain committed to seeing Sheriff Clardy removed from office, I suggest you appeal to the men and women responsible for electing him.

CNN has contacted Clardys attorney, Howard Morrow, for comment on the attorney generals letter.

The Oklahoma Sheriffs Association voted in April to suspend the membership of Clardy, Manning and Hendrix after the recording was released, the groups executive director told CNN.

CNNs Tina Burnside, Raja Razek and Rosa Flores contributed to this report.

For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com
Lais Ribeiro was photographed by Ben Watts in the Bahamas. Ben Watts/Sports Illustrated

Lais Ribeiro has been featured in the SI Swimsuit Issue four times, starting with her rookie appearance in 2017, when she was photographed in Indonesia by James Macari. The Brazilian model returned to the fold the following year and posed for Ben Watts in the Bahamas. Her third feature found her reuniting with Macari in Costa Rica in 19, while her most recent magazine appearance took place in 21 after traveling to Sacramento with Anne Menke.

Ribeiro, 32, is known for her work as a Victorias Secret Angel, but shes also collaborated with notable brands such as Versace, Chanel and Dolce & Gabbana. Despite being part of such a glamorous industry, Ribeiro revealed to HelloGiggles that her makeup mantra in real life is more along the lines of less is more.

I have some great beauty role models from my mom to the makeup artists Ive worked with to one of my best friends, Jasmine Tookes, she told the outlet the year of her sophomore SI Swimsuit photo shoot. They have all taught me little tips and tricks about beauty, but the best thing Ive learned is to keep it natural.

Five years later, we still cant get enough of the following neon swimsuits Ribeiro wore throughout her photo shoot in the Bahamas that allowed her natural beauty to shine.

Ben Watts/Sports Illustrated

Ben Watts/Sports Illustrated

Ben Watts/Sports Illustrated

Ben Watts/Sports Illustrated

Ben Watts/Sports Illustrated
LONDON  Tamara Ralph has returned to Paris with a new, eponymous maison; a string of celebrity clients including Queen Rania of Jordan, Halle Berry and Lily James, and two big creative projects that are set to be unveiled next year.

It has not been an easy two years for the designer and cofounder of Ralph & Russo, the British couture and ready-to-wear brand that went into administration in 2021. Ralph and cofounder Michael Russo blamed the companys failure on the pandemic, and the assets were later sold to Retail Ecommerce Ventures, owner of brands including Dressbarn.

More from WWD

Since then, Ralph has brought members of her old team back on board and is making a comeback with new, private backing.

Shes showing her couture collection in Paris for the first time since before the pandemic, and plans to open a physical maison in the French capital later this year. Her her fall 2023 show will take place off-calendar on July 3 in the Grand Salon at the Shangri-La Hotel.

In an interview, Ralph said she has matured over the past two years and the collection will reflect the stronger person she feels she has become.

Ralph said the collection embodies a bolder femininity. There are lots of typical feminine details that Ive always used in my design career, but this time Ive made them harder, and stronger. Ive crafted a lot of elements in metal, and almost created an armor with cage-like structures and shields, she said.

Queen Rania of Jordan wearing Tamara Ralph Couture

Ralph has worked with materials such as black velvet and white double satin, and a color palette that takes in terracotta orange and shades she describes as gelato pink and fresh mint.

The Australian-born, Monte Carlo-based designer describes the collection as more confident. There is a fearlessness within it. Each piece stands on its own and is like a work of art. It is a celebration of the incredible talent and craftsmanship in the studio, Ralph added.

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In building this business, Ralph said she will not repeat past mistakes.

Ralph & Russo, which launched in 2010, was a successful, high-profile couture house, but it expanded at breakneck speed, moving into rtw, accessories, lingerie and eyewear and opening stores around the world. Ralph spent much of her time dashing around the globe, catering to clients in their homes, and on their yachts.

This time, Ralph said shes keen to build strong foundations and move at a much slower pace. I want to build this company very, very organically, she said, adding that her clients have remained loyal to her over the years.

In May she dressed Queen Rania of Jordan for the coronation of King Charles III in a pastel yellow silk crepe pencil dress with a structured, off-the-shoulder bow collar and sheer sleeves.

In March, she dressed Halle Berry for the 2023 Oscars red carpet in a white keyhole cutout gown with thigh-high slits and shimmering pink rosettes.

Ralph said shes happy to be back doing what she loves, and working with her old Ralph & Russo staff and suppliers, everyone who I hold so dear or to me. Its a smaller team, she said, but thats all part of the plan.

She said she still has a lifestyle vision and there are plans for rtw, but shes taking her time.

Ralph is also thinking beyond fashion, and said shes working on two creative projects in other industries. She declined to reveal any details, but stressed that she is keen to access revenue streams outside fashion.

I learned throughout COVID[-19] that its important to have other elements in the business that can help sustain the company, she said.

Although my vision will always be to build a lifestyle brand, Im also working on two collaborations in the top tier of luxury. Theyre with incredible brands at the top of their respective sectors. Im doing things that I never thought I would, or could, do  and I love it, said Ralph, whose first collaboration will be revealed in January.

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Click here to read the full article.
June 26-30

This list is not comprehensive. Municipalities are listed as they appear on the criminal complaint. Suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. To see mugshots of the accused, visit journaltimes.com/gallery. Additional information about the complaints can be found at: journaltimes.com/news/local/crime-and-courts.

Rosalean Arroyo, 1500 block of 68th Street, Kenosha, obstructing an officer, possession of drug paraphernalia, misdemeanor bail jumping.

Kenneth J. Atchison, 1100 block of Lasalle Street, Racine, possession of THC.

Courtney L. Balsewicz, 1800 block of Parkland Court, Racine, misdemeanor theft, disorderly conduct (domestic abuse assessments), possession of cocaine.

Jeffrey R. Barr, 1400 block of 11th Avenue, Union Grove, possession with intent to deliver cocaine (between 5-15 grams), possession of drug paraphernalia.

James R. Behm, 2900 block of 87th Street, Sturtevant, disorderly conduct (domestic abuse assessments), criminal trespass.

Eric M. Bose, 1000 block of Four Mile Road, Racine, obstructing an officer.

Marilyn A. Burgess, 700 block of 10th Street, Racine, substantial battery, disorderly conduct.

Destiny Carrington-Mallett, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, second degree recklessly endangering safety, resisting an officer, disorderly conduct.

Scott A. Caywood, Cudahy, Wisconsin, obstructing an officer.

Edward C. Domenech, 3500 block of Spring Street, Racine, possession of child pornography.

Peter Goodman, 5100 block of Pine Tree Circle, Racine, operating a motor vehicle while under the influence (2nd offense), operate motor vehicle while revoked, resist officer (failure to stop vehicle).

Jerrell Turron Heard, Gary, Indiana, felony bail jumping.

Erica E. Hoff, Cudahy, Wisconsin, possession of methamphetamine, obstructing an officer, possession of drug paraphernalia.

Nathan J. Huiras, 6300 block of Newcastle Lane, Racine, attempting to flee or elude an officer, obstructing an officer, resisting an officer, battery to a law enforcement officer, felony bail jumping.

Zyaire R. Johnson, 900 block of Grand Avenue, Racine, misdemeanor bail jumping.

Franklin J. Jones III, 1100 block of Hamilton Street, Racine, possession with intent to deliver cocaine (between 1-5 grams), possession with intent to deliver/distribute/manufacture THC (less than or equal to 200 grams), possession of drug paraphernalia.

Dontrell E. Lynch, 2200 block of Center Street, Racine, delivery of schedule I or II narcotics (possession with intent to deliver/distribute a controlled substance on or near a school), maintaining a drug trafficking place, deliver fentanyl (less than or equal to 10 grams, possession with intent to deliver/distribute a controlled substance on or near a school), possession with intent to deliver fentanyl (greater than 50 grams), possession with intent to deliver/distribute/manufacture THC (less than or equal to 200 grams), felony bail jumping.

Anthony A. Marin, 2600 block of Pinehurst Avenue, Racine, attempting to flee or elude an officer, operate motor vehicle while revoked, misdemeanor bail jumping.

Raymond C. Najdowski, 3100 block of South Honey Lake Road, Burlington, first degree sexual assault (domestic abuse assessments), pointing a firearm at another (domestic abuse assessments), disorderly conduct (domestic abuse assessments).

Davarius Travell Neville, 2800 block of Chicory Road, Racine, operate motor vehicle while revoked, failure to install ignition interlock device.

Traveail D. Oliver-Thomas, 3700 block of Victory Avenue, Racine, felony retail theft from person or corpse (elderly person), negligent operating of vehicle.

Vincent R. Palasz, Baraboo, Wisconsin, possession of THC.

Jacob J. Parkhill, 1800 block of Center Street, Racine, criminal damage to property.

Spencer L. Parry, Northbrook, Illinois, possession of cocaine, possession of drug paraphernalia.

Anthony M. Pietsch, 1700 block of North Wisconsin Street, Racine, possession with intent to deliver cocaine (between 5-15 grams), possession with intent to deliver fentanyl (less than or equal to 10 grams), possession of drug paraphernalia, felony bail jumping.

Eric D. Rogers, 1600 block of Flett Avenue, Racine, manufacture/deliver cocaine (less than or equal to 1 gram, possession with intent to deliver/distribute a controlled substance on or near a school), deliver fentanyl (less than or equal to 10 grams, possession with intent to deliver/distribute a controlled substance on or near a school), maintaining a drug trafficking place.

Timothy T. Rule, Green Bay, Wisconsin, carrying a concealed weapon, possession of THC.

Shante L. Sanders, 1000 block of Hilker Place, Racine, battery to a law enforcement officer, threat to a law enforcement officer, attempt disarming a peace officer, bodily harm to a worker in a health care facility, throw or discharge bodily fluids at public safety worker, resisting an officer, disorderly conduct.

Ronald Stovall, 1100 block of Carlisle Avenue, Racine, operating a motor vehicle while under the influence (4th offense, general alcohol concentration enhancer), possession of THC, operate motor vehicle while revoked, failure to install ignition interlock device.
Shark Fest 2023

If your shark fascination means that one week of shark shows isn't enough, then National Geographic's Shark Fest 2023 has you covered.

The four-week event from National Geographic is in its 11th year and is set to promise "four weeks of explosive, hair raising and celebratory shark programming". Not stopping there, it'll also "showcase the captivating science, power and beauty" of sharks. As the announcement from Nat Geo explains, "because one week is simply not enough" with a cheeky nod to Shark Week which also runs in July but for just seven days.

Shark Fest runs from Sunday, July 2 right through until July 30. In that time, over 22 hours of original programming and over 50 hours of enhanced content will unfold across National Geographic, Nat Geo WILD, Nat Geo Mundo, Disney Plus, Hulu, and ESPN2.

From preschool-friendly content on Disney Junior to some high-octane action on National Geographic, there's something for everyone. You'll learn plenty of facts about sharks, from the biggest sharks in the world to some of the weirdest sharks, and everything in between.

If all this sounds incredibly exciting to you then our Shark Fest streaming guide is here to guide you through everything you need to know. That includes how to watch all the great shows that form the festival of sharks, along with a full schedule so you know what to look for.

When is Shark Fest 2023?

Bullshark vs Hammerhead - Shark Fest 2023

July 2 - July 30, 2023

National Geographic's Shark Fest runs for a whole month, potentially leaving Shark Week's solitary one week behind in the dust (or should that be sand). It runs from July 2 through to July 30 with a look at the lives of sharks from Cape Cod to the Bahamas, Australia, and even the UK.

How to watch Shark Fest 2023

Bullshark vs Hammerhead - Shark Fest 2023

Unlike Shark Week, Shark Fest is across many channels. If you have a traditional cable subscription, you're ahead of the crowd with options as Shark Fest will be shown on live TV across ABC Owned Television Stations. But what do you do if you don't?

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There are plenty of different ways to watch all things Shark Fest 2023 this year, but the easiest way to catch all the new shows is via Disney+ or Hulu. Every single Shark Fest premiere will drop onto both streaming services on July 2, and Hulu is even running a month-long free trial.

Watch Shark Fest on Hulu: One month free trial.

Hulu (With Ads) - $7.99/mo

Hulu (No Ads) - $14.99/mo

Get a one-month free trial for Hulu and watch all the Shark Fest shows for free. If you want to stay subscribed after that, there are ad-supported and ad-free options.View Deal

Watch Shark Fest on Disney+:

Basic - $7.99/mo with ads

Premium - $10.99/mo with no ads

Catch all the Shark Fest premieres of Disney+ from July 2.View Deal

If you don't want to sign up to Hulu or Disney+, there are still ways to catch some or all of the action elsewhere. The shows are spread out across multiple channels and platforms including National Geographic, Nat Geo Wild, Nat Geo Mundo, Disney Channel, Disney XD, Disney Junior and ESPN2. You'll likely need to sign up for a couple of services if you want to watch everything.

Channels like National Geographic, Nat Geo Wild, ESPN2, Disney XD, Disney Channel, and Disney Junior are all available through live TV streaming platforms. These include FuboTV, Hulu with Live TV, Sling TV and YouTube TV.

None of them offer a free trial sufficiently long enough for the full month. However, YouTube TV offers a two week free trial so you can catch quite a lot of Shark Fest. FuboTV has a seven day free trial which at least gives you a taste of what's out there. Honestly though, your best bet is going to be Disney+ or Hulu.

Watching Shark Fest outside of the U.S.

Sharkcano Hawaii - Shark Fest 2023

if you're based outside of the US, then you should still be able to watch all of the Shark Fest programming as long as Disney+ operates in your country. National Geographic is owned by Disney, so they have the rights to the programming worldwide.

If you're travelling to a country that doesn't have Disney+ and you want to keep up with all the sharky action, then we'd recommend using a VPN. VPN stands for virtual private network, and it's basically a service that lets you bounce your internet connection via a server in another country. This has plenty of privacy benefits, but it also lets you access content that's location-restricted too.

There are loads of reliable VPN providers out there, but our favorite is ExpressVPN - it's the one that our writers use when we need to check geo-restricted info and we've found it to be super reliable.

ExpressVPN - $8.32/mo for a 12-month plan

Sign up to ExpressVPN and access content from anywhere in the world. The yearly subscription offers the best value, but you can also get a one-month plan for $12.95. There is a 30-day money-back guarantee too.View Deal

What shows are running during Shark Fest?

22 hours of original programming makes up Shark Fest along with a chance to catch them again later in the month, and some familiar favorites from days gone by. There are a few standouts though which we've picked out below.

All of these shows are available on Disney Plus and Hulu from July 2.

Bull Shark Bandits

Bullshark Bandits - Shark Fest 2023

Investigating rising reports of bull sharks stealing from fishermen in Weipa, northern Australia, this documentary seeks to determine if there's new evidence of shark intelligence afoot. It uses groundbreaking experiments and technology, including a new prototype diving cage. For those that think sharks are hugely underrated, this could be great insight.

"Bull Shark Bandits" will air Sunday, July 2 at 8PM ET on National Geographic. It will also be aired on ESPN2 on July 7 at 10PM ET and Nat Geo Wild July 24 at 10PM ET.

Shark Below Zero

Shark Below Zero - Shark Fest 2023

White sharks are traveling further than before with them recently being spotted across Canada as far north as the coast of Newfoundland. Following the first suspected white shark attack in Canada for over 150 years, a series of experts investigate why white sharks are traveling so far and what that means.

"Shark Below Zero" will air Wednesday, July 5 at 8PM ET on National Geographic. It also airs on ESPN2 on July 7 at 9PM ET and Nat GeoWild July 28 at 8PM ET.

Sharkano: Hawaii

Sharkano: Hawaii - Shark Fest 2023

Sharks and volcanos? Sounds suspiciously like a fun cheesy movie to us. Sharkano: Hawaii has biologists, Dr. Mike Heithaus and Dr Frances Farabaugh free diving with one of the most dangerous sharks -- the tiger shark -- while figuring out why they're drawn to Hawaii's volcanoes. It should be beautiful yet terrifying.

"Sharkano: Hawaii" will air Wednesday, July 5 at 9PM ET on National Geographic. It's also shown on Nat Geo Wild on July 24 at 8PM ET as well as 10PM ET.
MILFORD  A woman is in critical condition Saturday after she was struck Friday night by a truck that police say was being driven by a local man who was drunk.

The woman in her 20s, whose name was not released, was transported to UMass-Memorial Medical Center in Worcester by medical rescue helicopter after the 9:27 p.m. pedestrian crash at the intersection of Jefferson and North Bow streets.

Police arrested Kenneth Doyle, 51, of Milford, after the crash, according to a Milford Police Department release.

According to the release, police responded to Jefferson Street after several 911 calls reporting a pedestrian crash. Due to the seriousness of the injuries, the woman was taken to UMass via a helicopter.

More: Woman hospitalized after her SUV rolls over in Milford bank parking lot

Police arrested the alleged driver of the truck that struck the woman, Doyle, and charged him with operating a vehicle under the influence of liquor causing serious bodily injury; operating a vehicle under the influence of liquor; driving to endanger; leaving the scene of a crash; threatening to commit a crime; witness intimidation; resisting arrest; disorderly conduct; and disturbing the peace.

Police also cited Doyle with altering a vehicle's height, having a modified exhaust system to increase noise and having tires outside of the fender.

Doyle is scheduled to be arraigned Monday in Milford District Court.

The crash is being investigated by the Milford Police Department, the Central Massachusetts Law Enforcement Council's accident reconstruction team and the Massachusetts State Police crime scene division.

Norman Miller can be reached at 508-626-3823 or nmiller@wickedlocal.com. For up-to-date public safety news, follow him on Twitter @Norman_MillerMW or on Facebook at facebook.com/NormanMillerMW.

This article originally appeared on The Milford Daily News: Milford man faces several charges after pedestrian crash
Photo Illustration by Elizabeth Brockway/The Daily Beast/Getty/Reuters

Gov. Ron DeSantis recently signed a $116.5 billion budget, but not before vetoing $511 million for mostly local projects.

The veto list is a drop in the bucket compared to past yearsits less than half of the $1 billion-plus he vetoed in what he called the veto equivalent of the Red Wedding three years ago, and far below the $3.1 billion he excised last year.

Some of the vetoes were expected. Nobody expected DeSantis to let the 1619 Festa Black History Month celebration in Orlandosnag $160,000 from the Free State of Florida.

Ron DeSantis Hates the Elites, but Gives Them the Little Guys Money Anyway

But what the veto list lacked in quantity, DeSantis made up for in vindictiveness. Here are seven vetoes that prove the governor can be a prick.

1. Screwing the Farmers

The governors budget vetoes fell hardfor the second year in a rowon top priorities of GOP Agriculture Commissioner Wilton Simpson. DeSantis vetoed $100 million the state uses to pay farmers who agree to preserve their land from development, and he eliminated nearly $30 million for energy programs Simpson oversees.

Simpson, who has stayed neutral in the primary fight between DeSantis and former President Donald Trump, questioned DeSantis support for agriculture, a statement that could haunt the governor as he tries to pick up support in the crucial early nominating state of Iowa.

There is no conceivable reason to target agriculture in a year when we have billions of dollars in reserves, Simpson told Gary Fineout of Politico, who also endured large budget vetoes a year ago when he was still Senate president. Agriculture was harmed today and so was the state of Florida.

Photo Illustration by Elizabeth Brockway/The Daily Beast/Getty

2. Retaliating Over Not Getting an Endorsement

No community was named as frequently in Gov. DeSantis veto list as Sarasota. The regions state senator, a close ally of former President Donald Trump, says thats no accident.

Sen. Joe Gruters, Sarasota Countys longest-serving state lawmaker and the former Chair of the Florida GOP, didnt mince words when asked why he thought the reliably Republican pocket of the Sunshine State was given the cold shoulder.

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It was because he had an opinionthe wrong one, in DeSantis eyesof who should be in the Oval Office come January 2025.

The governor is clearly upset I endorsed Donald Trump for president, and so he took it out on the people of Sarasota County, Gruters told the Sarasota Herald-Tribune. Trump and I understand that people come first, and its our job to deliver clean water, jobs, and a better America for the next generation. The governor clearly sees politics differently.

Leaked Audio From a Ron DeSantis Donor Event Is Really Bad News for His Campaign

The projects axed by the governor include items addressing critical state needs. Floridas health-care leaders have warned the state will be short tens of thousands of nurses in the coming years, yet one of the largest single vetoes DeSantis made was a $20 million earmark for a STEM nursing facility at the University of South Floridas Sarasota-Manatee campus.

Without a doubt, this was a cut made in the service of vengeance, not fiscal responsibility.

3. Gunned Down

The biggest public safety measure to get DeSantis approval this year wasnt all that safe. Midway through the legislative session, he signed a bill that removes Floridas current requirement for gun owners to obtain a concealed firearm license.

The permitless carry bill cruised through the legislature despite concerns from some lawmakers, mostly Democrats, who groused that the measure would make Florida more dangerous, which is a view held by the vast majority of Florida voters, including more than 60 percent of Republicans.

Their concerns either didnt grab the governors attention or, more likely, he decided to rub salt in the wound by vetoing gun violence prevention funding.

St. Petersburg Democratic state Sen. Darryl Rousons funding request was the largest of its kind to get scratched out of the budgethe sought $5 million for groups combating gun violence at the community level.

It makes sense to expand programs that are actually doing the work to prevent more gun violence, Rouson said in a release, adding that the funding was needed especially due to the likely increase in gun violence once permitless carry goes into effect July 1.

But Rousons proposal wasnt the only one to get the ax.

Political Cronies and Thugs Are the Winners in DeSantisworld

The governor also nixed two requests from GOP state Sen. Alexis Calatayud that would have provided a combined $3.9 million to the Miami-Dade County Community Violence Intervention Initiative, to provide emotional and mental health support, resources, and interventions in communities most impacted by violence, specifically gun violence.

It should be noted that Calatayud voted for the permitless carry bill, lauding the inclusion of $60 million into school safety programs and resources, but DeSantis apparently wasnt impressed.

Photo Illustration by Elizabeth Brockway/The Daily Beast/Getty

4. Screw the Animals

Yes, DeSantis vetoed funding for an aquarium project at Brevard Zoo, but you can go ahead and credit GOP state Rep. Randy Fine with an assist.

The lawmaker revels in controversy and seemingly lives to dish out acerbic soundbites on culture war issues such as gender-affirming care. But like the resident of the governors mansion, he bristles at pushback from the targets of his barbs. Fine essentially took his rage out on an innocent bystander when he pushed the governor to veto the funding request.

Ron DeSantis War on College Is Bad for Florida Business

Why the flip?

Brevard Zoo had the audacity to considersimply considernot allowing its property to be rented out for political events after a fundraiser held by Fine went sideways, drawing a crowd of protesters who railed against the state senate candidates stance on transgender issues.

Hopefully Brevard Zoo can collect enough liberal tears to fill a salt-water tank, because it didnt take much convincing for the governor to capitulate to Fines petty request.

5. No Soup For You!

South Florida spent a good chunk of the legislative session underwater, and if it was unclear whether DeSantis cared about the emergency, its not anymore.

The governor slashed millions in funding requests that would have paid for emergency planning and infrastructure, which could have prevented South Florida residents from having to find a way to make galoshes and highwaters stylish.

Ron DeSantis Anti-Free Speech Crusade Would Cancel Fox News

Among the $3.14 million in South Florida flood control vetoes: $800,000 to improve Lauderhill Maple Run drainage; $600,000 for drainage to improve the area near the Dolphin Mall; $450,000 to rehab pump stations at the Old Plantation Water Control District; $340,200 to fix failed drainage systems on Southwest Ranches roads; $262,500 to repair deteriorating drainage culverts along the South Broward Drainage Districts (SBDD) C-1 Canal; a $200,000 flood mitigation project in Parkland; and $1.5 million that would have improved sanitary sewer overflows for the Glades Community.

Why all the vetoes? Perhaps because the South Florida lawmakersmost of them Democratswho sponsored the requests also vocally criticized the governor for refusing to tour the damage.

South Florida wasnt alone, either. DeSantis also slashed $1 million for a project to ease flooding in the historic Black community of Midway.

Photo Illustration by Elizabeth Brockway/The Daily Beast/Getty

6. All Things Not Considered

In another move that thwarts public safety, DeSantis nixed more than $6.4 million that the legislature approved in the budget for various projects at public and community radio and broadcast stations throughout the state.

The tranche of items slashed from the budget were aimed at correcting health and safety issues or building deficiencies or to complete renovations at public broadcasting stations.

Most of these stations are, at least in part, listener-funded, and most carry National Public Radio (NPR) content. Its no secret that many people view NPR, and public radio writ large, as a liberal mouthpiece. NPRs own research shows about 26 percent of its listenership identifies as conservative or somewhat conservative, while about 37 percent identify as liberal or somewhat liberal. And efforts to defund NPR among conservatives is nothing new.

Other stations that fell victim to vetoes carry PBS content, which the media bias rating group All Sides ranks as lean[ing] left and which often faces similar criticism from conservatives as NPR.

But DeSantis red pen means these stations, most strapped for cash in a harsh media environment, wont be getting needed safety features.

That includes nearly $400,000 axed from WUSF in Tampa for replacement of an obsolete electrical system; more than $475,000 for WMNF Community Radio in Tampa to replace a generator and fuel tank; nearly $350,000 for WEDU-TV in Tampa to replace mildewed ceiling tiles; more than $100,000 for WFSU in Tallahassee for emergency equipment and a new FAA-compliant tower; more than $800,000 for WJCT in Jacksonville for restroom renovation and damaged floor replacement; and so much more.

While, individually, the vetoes may not seem like much, collectively it looks more like DeSantis has an ax to grind with what he likely perceives as the liberal media out to tank his governorship and presidential ambitions.

7. The Unkindest Cut of All

Moffitt Cancer Center wont be getting a road to its Life Sciences campus in Pasco County after DeSantis vetoed a $5 million line item to fund a connector road.

A Ron DeSantis Presidency Would Be All Authoritarian Culture War Nonsense

Its a weird veto considering DeSantis wife, Casey DeSantis, survived breast cancer thanks to treatment she received at Moffitt Cancer Center.

It would seem like, out of gratitude for his wifes renewed health, hed let the $5 million, which the legislature already approved, slide without taking the time to nix it.

Thats especially true considering the $5 million is a fraction of what has ultimately been sought for Moffitt recently. Last year, DeSantis vetoed a priority package put forth by then-state Senate President Wilton Simpson for $600 million for the Pasco Moffitt campus. And the $5 million in this years budget was far less than the $25 million Rep. Randy Maggard had requested.

What kind of guy snubs the place that may very well have saved his wifes life?

Governor Prick, thats who.

Read more at The Daily Beast.

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WASHINGTON  The Supreme Courts decision Friday to strike down a $400 billion student loan forgiveness program was the latest high-profile legal defeat for President Joe Biden.

But it hasnt been all bad news for Biden at the nations highest court.

Despite the courts conservative bent, the Justice Department has successfully defended several of the Democratic presidents policies before the Supreme Court  especially when it comes to immigration.

Here's a look at some of the biggest wins and losses for Biden:

Dig deeper Supreme Court term takes hard right turn in student loan, affirmative action cases

Loss: Student loans

As had long been expected, the Supreme Court shot down Bidens plan to forgive up to $20,000 in student loan debt for tens of millions of Americans. The plan, which Biden announced nearly a year ago, fulfilled a campaign promise. But a 6-3 majority of the Supreme Court said the administration overstepped its authority by trying to approve the effort without getting a law through Congress.

Demonstrators hold signs as they rally outside the Supreme Court building during the Women's March in Washington, Saturday, June 24, 2023. Abortion rights and anti-abortion activists held rallies Saturday in Washington and across the country to call attention to the Dobbs v. Jackson Womens Health Organization ruling on June 24, 2022, which upended the 1973 Roe v. Wade decision.

Win: Deportation priorities

During his first year in office, Biden officials said they would prioritize certain immigrants in the country illegally for deportation, such as those who pose a threat to national security or public safety. Texas and Louisiana sued, arguing Biden didnt have the power to decide which immigrants to prioritize. In an 8-1 decision on June 23, the Supreme Court said the states didnt have standing to sue.

Border Patrol agents escort migrants onto a bus to be taken to a processing facility to begin their asylum-seeking process in Eagle Pass, Texas on June 25, 2023.

Loss: Vaccine mandates

Last year, the Supreme Court smacked down one of Bidens signature efforts to control the COVID-19 pandemic: a mandate on large employers to require vaccine or testing for the virus. The unsigned opinion said the law used to establish the mandate did not give the administration the power to regulate public health beyond the workplace.

In a second opinion, the court permitted a vaccine mandate on people employed at health care facilities that receive federal funding through Medicare and Medicaid.

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Syringes with COVID-19 vaccines are prepared at the L.A. Care and Blue Shield of California Promise Health Plans' Community Resource Center on Oct. 28, 2022, in Lynwood, Calif.

Win: Abortion pill

Most of the provisions involved in the legal battle over the abortion pill mifepristone this year involved policies implemented long before Biden became president. However, the Biden administration in late 2021 made permanent a policy allowing the drug to be distributed by mail. The Supreme Court in April allowed that policy and several others to remain in place while a lawsuit challenging the drugs approval continues.

Win: Remain in Mexico

Biden rescinded the Trump-era Remain in Mexico policy in 2021, ending the requirement that migrants seeking asylum wait in Mexico for their claims to be reviewed. Conservative states sued, alleging the administration didnt follow the law in unwinding the program. Last year, in a 5-4 opinion, the Supreme Court sided with Biden on the policy.

Draw: Title 42 expulsions

The Supreme Court last month dismissed an appeal challenging the end of Title 42, the pandemic-era policy embraced by the Trump administration that allowed border officials to rapidly expel migrants seeking asylum. Several conservative states sought to defend Title 42, and the high court agreed to hear their case. But by the time the court got around to it, the Biden administration announced it would lift the national COVID-19 emergencies that authorized Title 42 expulsions. The challenge became moot and the high court dismissed it last month.

The Supreme Court on April 19, 2023.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Student loans: A look at Biden's record at the Supreme Court
As folk heroes go, Bob Carmack is one of the wackiest.

A deez-and-doze former Michigan Avenue bump shop owner who grew up on the mean streets of southwest Detroit, Carmack has gone from backroom political operator to standard-bearer for all who believe Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan is more powerful than "Oz, the Great and Terrible." In fractured syntax and with mobile billboards and banners flown over sports stadiums, Carmack has tried to portray Duggan as an immoral, malevolent dictator capable of controlling police, prosecutors, judges and anyone else he needs to do his bidding. On social media and at his public appearances, Duggan-skeptics rally around Carmack, with his trademark baseball cap and T-shirts that proclaim his faith or populist messages like "Detroiters for Tax Justice."

Interspersed in the piles of papers strewn throughout Carmack's black SUV, its dashboard occasionally doubling as a filing cabinet, are documents Carmack believes prove Hizzoner is a puppet master. He has tried, without success, to convince Detroit's Inspector General, Michigan State Police, Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel and former President Donald Trump's Justice Department to investigate Duggan.

But Carmack's ability to wage his campaign as a free man may be ending soon. Eight months after a judge dismissed criminal charges accusing Carmack of swindling Detroit, another judge reinstated the charges. Two weeks ago, that judge set a trial date for Aug. 28. Like seemingly all things Carmack-related, the case is one of the most convoluted I've encountered. Even the district court judge who first heard the evidence seemed perplexed. Before she sent the case to circuit court for trial, she warned prosecutors they might have a tough time getting a conviction.

At the time she said that, however, Carmack had two aggressive, experienced and effective defense attorneys. Neither of them represent Carmack today. He told me he's going to have a lawyer at his side when he goes back to court, but he plans to defend himself. Carmack said he will call 30 witnesses.

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"I'ma bring in Kwame Kilpatrick, because he's the one who started this. I'ma bring in Derrick Miller," Carmack said, referring to one of Kilpatrick's former top aides. "I'ma bring in Mike Duggan. I'ma bring in his wife. I'ma bring in his ex-wife. I'ma bring in his girlfriend, his dog  whoever I can bring in here."

It's said a lawyer who represents himself has a fool for a client.

So what does that make Carmack?

Look back in anger

It would be easy to dismiss Carmack, who subscribes to the theory that "just because you're paranoid doesn't mean they aren't out to get you."

But Carmack is street-smart and resourceful. An influential behind-the-scenes political player, he was chummy with loads of local, county and state politicians, as well as movers and shakers. Sometimes he fixed their cars for free, throwing in his thoughts on auto insurance reform as a bonus. Somewhere along the way, Carmack got fed up with the greasy side of politics. A few years ago, when Detroit City Councilman Gabe Leland shook him down for cash, Carmack went to the FBI. The ensuing investigation resulted in Leland pleading guilty to misconduct in office and resigning from office.

Detroit City Councilman Gabe Leland leaves the U.S. District Court after being arraigned on bribery charges, entering a plea of not guilty in Detroit on Oct 15, 2018.

Carmack's dealings with Leland and other local officials turned him into a self-appointed champion in the fight against public corruption. The victim for whom Carmack fights most ferociously is himself. He claims the city and county illegally seized and demolished a building across from his Michigan Avenue bump shop, and then shut his bump shop down. He claims Duggan orchestrated the criminal charges against him because he accused public officials of abusing their power. The mayor has said all of Carmack's problems stem from his failure to follow the law.

Carmack and the city have traded lawsuits in state and federal court over the past several years, but it is the criminal charges filed in 2018 against Carmack that should concern him the most.

More: Trump and Boris: A tale of two conservatives headed in different directions

The case stems from Carmack's dream of building a resort along the Detroit River. Carmack said city officials forced him to spend a bundle evaluating the property before a henchman for Kilpatrick, who was then mayor, demanded a $50,000 payoff. Carmack said the deal died when he refused to pay. Then, with no explanation, the city sent him a deed to some nearby property. Carmack figured it was compensation for the dough he spent on his riverfront project. But before he sold the land, he took the deed to the Detroit City Council and said he would sell the land unless someone told him not to. No one tried to stop him, so he sold the land for about $1 million.

A decade later, as Carmack and the city were squabbling over Carmack's properties on Michigan Avenue, he hired private investigators to follow Duggan. On Nov. 14, 2018, Carmack hired a mobile billboard to show video of the mayor driving to the home of a woman who was not his wife. Five weeks later, Carmack was charged with stealing the city land he sold. (Duggan declined to comment on his excursions, but later got divorced and married the woman.)

Surveillance video paid for by Detroit businessman Robert Carmack, plays on a screen near the Renaissance Center in Detroit on Nov. 14, 2018.

The late, great Peter Henning, a Wayne State University law school professor and former federal prosecutor, told me when the case was filed that it could be hard for prosecutors to prove intent  a key element of the case  since Carmack told city officials he planned to sell the land before going through with the deal.

In Michigan, criminal cases go before district court judges to determine whether there is enough evidence to send a felony case to circuit court for trial. The district court judge faulted the city for being poor record keepers, and essentially accused Carmack of pulling a fast one.

The judge told prosecutors "I do think there are significant problems" with the case, but nevertheless bound it over circuit court for trial.

More: I visited Mackinac Island in search of elusive prey: A Republican running for US Senate

In the meantime, the animosity between Carmack and Duggan festered.

In early 2020, Duggan was accompanying then-Democratic presidential candidate Joe Biden to an event at the home of Virgie Rollins, a legendary political activist who is National Black Caucus Chairwoman for the Democratic National Committee. Carmack says Duggan refused to enter until he left.

"The mayor did not want to be where he was," Rollins told me.

So Carmack got the boot.

Duggan told me Carmack was not on the invitation list that Biden's campaign team approved and the Secret Service reviewed, and "they had handled it appropriately."

"I had no input into the protocols for the vice presidents security and have no information on how they handled it," he added.

Based on what I know about both men, it's not hard to believe Carmack showed up where he wasn't expected and it's not hard to imagine that the mayor wanted to avoid a confrontation in front of the potential next leader of the free world.

Even after Carmack got the welcome news last October that a judge dismissed the criminal charges against him, he stood outside Detroit City Hall with one of his lawyers and said he would prove Duggan was out to get him.

Today, that lawyer is long gone.

And we're still waiting for that proof.

Defenseless?

Since 2018, Carmack has been sued by the city over the land deal; has been charged with four felonies stemming from the land deal, and has been charged with drunken driving. He has hired  and fired  enough prominent criminal defense attorneys to field an all-star hardball team.

Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan holds a news conference on Nov. 26, 2018, at Coleman A. Young Municipal Center. Duggan announced that he asked the state police to open an investigation into the conduct of Robert Carmack, a city businessman whose agitation campaign against Duggan went public earlier this month

He proclaims with equal conviction that there is no case against him, and that he doesn't have a chance.

"They can't take me to court, to trial, or anything," he says one moment. "The judge who made this decision is going to make a fool of himself."

"I don't believe that I can win with the judges, and I don't really believe that I can win the jury. I believe these guys are so crooked they'll pay a jury off," he says, in another moment. "I may go to jail. But there ain't nothing I can do about it. I'm doing right and I'ma do what I'm supposed to do."

To put it mildly, Carmack is not the most linear thinker I have ever met. He collects puzzle pieces  and eagerly shares them with anyone he thinks can help put them together  but they don't always fit. He believes he knows more about the case against him than anyone  which causes him to question the commitment and competence of his attorneys  but his peripatetic mind means he's probably not the best person to organize his defense and argue his case in court. Throw in that the legal system doubles as an employment program for some of the last people in America who spend time learning Latin, and it seems to me that Carmack sure could use a trusted counselor by his side before any of his cases go before a jury.

Yet, with his freedom on the line, Carmack seems more focused on confronting the mayor than hiring an advocate to help him navigate our labyrinthine legal system.

On Wednesday, when the mayor and city council held a meeting on the east side, Carmack stepped up during the public comment session to challenge Duggan.

"Who told you that I stole the deed in 2007?" he said. "You brought false charges on me, malicious prosecution, abuse of power. You need to be removed from office."

"I know you're facing a couple of felony trials," Duggan replied. "I know you've got another serious drunk driving charge in the Brownstown police, but I am not going to comment on your legal issues."

A mug shot of Robert Carmack taken in connection with a drunken driving arrest in Brownstown on Oct. 27, 2019.

I don't know enough about the law to say whether Carmack can  or should  beat the rap.

But I have a strong suspicion that if Carmack doesn't get serious about finding a lawyer, the next time he dials my number it will be a collect call.

M.L. Elrick is a Pulitzer Prize- and Emmy Award-winning investigative reporter and host of the ML's Soul of Detroit podcast. Contact him at mlelrick@freepress.com or follow him on Twitter at @elrick, Facebook at ML Elrick and Instagram at ml_elrick. Support investigative reporting and use this link to invite a friend to become a subscriber.

This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Bob Carmack heading back to court on criminal charges
Fort Bragg, North Carolina, is a big part of my family's story.

In the summer of 1959, my uncle Jon joined the Army, eventually becoming one of the first Black members of the famed 82nd Airborne.

Last month, the Pentagon changed the name of Fort Bragg to Fort Liberty, the former bestowed in 1918 to honor a Confederate general.

Despite the howls of "woke-ism," this is not an erasure of American history, but rather a correction of it.

"It was long overdue," my uncle says.

Jon S. Goshay is in the third row.

Changing names: These bases were named after Confederates, now titles may be ditched. Here's what vets say

Who was Fort Bragg named after?

A graduate of West Point, Braxton Bragg made a name for himself during the Mexican American War. He rode that fame to wealth as he and his wife owned a Louisiana plantation and 100 enslaved people. However, his return to military service in support of the insurrectionists during the Civil War proved disastrous. He's blamed for losing key battles that led to the Confederacy's undoing.

Given all the people who have served, defended, even died for this country, who thought it'd be a great idea to name an American military installment after someone who took up arms against America?

That used to be called treason.

It was part of the effort to perpetuate The Lost Cause, the notion that the Confederates' insistence on preserving slavery and white supremacy under the guise of states' rights was a moral and just crusade.

Confederate States of America Vice President Alexander Stephens said so in 1861:

"Our new government is founded upon exactly the opposite ideas; its foundations are laid, its cornerstone rests, upon the great truth that the negro is not equal to the white man; that slavery, subordination to the superior race, is his natural and moral condition. This, our new government, is the first, in the history of the world, based upon this great physical, philosophical, and moral truth."

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History is hard to hear

Now, we know that ours is a culture that is notoriously allergic to history. News stories about our knowledge gap never fail to shock and surprise.

History can be hard to hear, but a narrative that is inaccurate is not history  it's just an argument waiting to happen.

History forces us to hear the truth about ourselves. Accepting that truth demands a measure of maturity.

When we refuse to do so, we get QAnon and Charlottesville.

Our history also reminds us there's no such thing as perfection among the people who make it. We've had impactful figures who were crooks, incompetents, bigots and hypocrites. They were a blend of virtues and flaws, just like the rest of us.

Do accomplishments outweigh faults?

The question has always been whether their accomplishments outweighed their faults.

Some of the men who started this wonder of a country were slave owners, all while knowing the institution was doomed. They upheld the practice out of their own selfishness.

President Franklin D. Roosevelt not only pulled America from the abyss of the Great Depression, he led the free world in defeating Nazism but did so with a segregated military. He also was an antisemite who had Japanese and some Italian Americans interned in camps for no reason other than their ethnicity.

Before his life was cut short, John F. Kennedy had all the markings of a brilliant president, but was reckless and compulsive in his private life, as was Bill Clinton, whose intellect is not up for debate.

During the Civil War, Abraham Lincoln suspended parts of the Constitution, and, some say, forgave the South much too easily.

No one was more qualified to be president than Richard Nixon but ... well ... you know.

The nature of our system is that our politics are all over the place. America's military is the one constant, the glue that holds it all together. It doesn't matter if you have the greatest country in the world if there is no one to protect and defend its principles. Plus, when it comes to change and growth, our military has always been ahead of the wider culture.

As a result, the names of 10 military forts are in the process of being changed. Fort Hood, originally named after John Bell Hood, a Confederate officer who fought  and lost  at Gettysburg, is now Fort Cavazos, honoring the Texas-born Gen. Richard Cavazos, the nation's first four-star Latino-American general.

My uncle's grandson William became an Army officer who served Fort Benning, Georgia, which is now Fort Moore, the first to honor a married couple. Lt. Gen. Harold G. Moore, successfully led troops during major battles in Vietnam. His wife, Julia, an advocate for military spouses and families, is credited for changing how the military notifies families about a combat death.

The base, built on a former plantation, was named for Confederate Brigadier Gen. Henry Benning.

History teaches us there are times and moments when the lines are clear: People who attack their own country don't deserve to be honored by it.

Charita M. Goshay is a Canton Repository staff writer and member of the editorial board. Reach her at 330-580-8313 or charita.goshay@cantonrep.com. On Twitter: @cgoshayREP

This article originally appeared on The Repository: Charita Goshay: Military bases needed to change names
When Nikki Haley was first elected to the South Carolina State House, she didnt have many friends. It was a consequence of her ousting a 30-year incumbent in the Republican primary.

And when she became governor six years later, Haley continued to go up against establishment Republicans, which included her continued call for required on-the-record voting for all bills and all sections of the states annual spending plan. Many lawmakers didnt like that, and Haley didnt care.

But lawmakers in the State House, including those who were present for Haleys time in office, have long memories of the combative times. And now, only a handful of current and former Palmetto State lawmakers have voiced support for the former United Nations ambassadors 2024 campaign for the White House.

If Haley wins the White House next year, shell have to work with Congress, and her experience as a South Carolina executive could inform how she would deal with the nations legislative branch. What goals could she accomplish as president with a reputation of ruffling feathers among lawmakers?

State Rep. Nathan Ballentine, R-Richland, one of Haleys backers in the state Legislature, said the lack of support from the sitting lawmakers is a plus for the candidate.

It tells you everything that people like about her, Ballentine said. Shes not establishment  shes a new face, a new voice. Shes not going to be the same old guard that does the same old thing.

Endorsements are nice, Ballentine added, but at the end of the day, its the people who are voting that matter.

Gov. Nikki Haley greets the legislators as she enters the chambers of the South Carolina House of Representatives Wednesday night to give her State of the State address. 1/21/15

Battles with the legislative establishment

During her time as a legislator and governor, Haley went up against the establishment in a building predominantly dominated by men, many of whom had been involved in state politics for years before Haley arrived.

Haley defeated former state Rep. Larry Koon, a 30-year incumbent, in the Republican primary and wasnt well liked in the State House when she first became state representative  a badge of honor she and Ballentine, her former seatmate, still speak about.

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After she was elected governor in 2010, which included finishing first in a four-person GOP primary with nearly 49% of the vote before winning a runoff with 65% of the vote, she would battle with the same establishment in the Legislature.

Theres a natural tension sometimes exacerbated on either side between executive and legislative branches, said Rob Godfrey, who served as deputy chief of staff during Haleys administration. While theyre both working for the best interest of the people of the state, sometimes (they) see different paths to policy wins, and thats OK.

As governor, she vetoed millions in spending year after year, including earmarks requested by lawmakers, calling some of the projects the worst kind of legislative deal-making  pork, pet projects, earmarks and micromanagement of state agencies.

Haley also vetoed a $12,000-a-year pay raise for lawmakers, saying it should be decided through a voter referendum and oftentimes axed dollars allocated to the S.C. Arts Commission.

She has her way, and then a lot of times that didnt agree with the way we were trying to do things in the House or in the Senate, said state Rep. Bill Hixon, an Edgefield County Republican who is backing Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis White House bid and has been a lawmaker since 2011.

S.C. Gov. Nikki Haley speaks at a press conference July 6, 2012 at the State House. Haley spoke about vetoes she signed that morning, and took questions from reporters

Current House Ways and Means Chairman Bruce Bannister, a Greenville Republican who was majority leader for four years of Haleys tenure as governor, said Haley did not want to participate in a give and take with the General Assembly.

When she was governor, she adopted the (Mark) Sanford style of being governor, which was to be an absolutist on her policy positions, and she was unwilling to negotiate or compromise even when that would move the ball forward on an issue, said Bannister, who is backing U.S. Sen. Tim Scotts presidential campaign. It was very frustrating, especially since she was from the legislative body and knew how the House and Senate worked and that you rarely got everything that you asked for.

At one point in Haleys tenure, she issued report cards on how well legislators worked on handling her agenda, following up on a promise she made on the campaign trail.

There is a natural resentment legislators had to a governor calling them out and holding them accountable, said state Sen. Tom Davis, R-Beaufort, a Haley backer. Thats probably the thing that rankled feathers the most.

But Haley, who was the second-youngest governor in state history, only issued the report cards once.

It illustrates a point when youre a governor, youre always growing, always evolving, always finding your feet. Youre always finding the best way to do things, Godfrey said. Maybe the best way to work with the Legislature wasnt necessarily to issue report cards. So those werent issued but one time, and I think that shows a measure of acknowledgment on the part of the governors office that it was important to continue to work on those relationships, and thats a credit to the governor.

The idea of report cards to hold others accountable came up again when Haley was United Nations ambassador. She often speaks about her time in Donald Trumps administration about how she put together a report of how much foreign aid was given to each country by the United States, compared to how often the country voted with the U.S.

After moving away from the legislator report cards, Haley moved on to posting on social media to call out lawmakers she disagreed with. She used social media as part of her bully pulpit to directly reach out to voters.

In retrospect, was that style of calling people out always the right thing? Thats for historians and other people to judge as the years go on, Godfrey said. But oftentimes it was an effective thing to move people and mobilize people outside the State House to move. Thats part of her job as someone who is elected statewide and is responsive to voters statewide. She had a responsibility to represent all (of) the state, which was different from the role she played as a House member.

Fewer backers in SC General Assembly

Despite the sometimes combative relationship between Haley and lawmakers, the six-year governor signed laws to improve literacy in the state, require law enforcement officers to wear body cameras, establish voter ID requirements and enacted ethics reform, on-the-record legislative voting, and a requirement for businesses in the state to check citizenship status of employees and job applicants through e-verify.

When you take on the status quo, you make a lot of insiders mad, said Ken Farnaso, Haleys presidential campaign spokesman. Thanks to Gov. Haleys leadership, votes in the State House are on-the-record, legislators no longer investigate themselves for ethics violations, and public officials are required to disclose their income. She also worked with members of the Legislature to crack down on illegal immigration, protect life, cut taxes, stand up for our veterans, and create tens of thousands of jobs. As president, shell never be afraid to take on the right fights for the American people.

It was the push she started as a legislator for the on-the-record voting that upset leadership in the state House and Haley says led to her being moved off of the Labor Commerce and Industry Committee by then-House Speaker Bobby Harrell.

I think she paid a political price for that, Davis said. They did not like the fact that she elevated that issue.

Despite the accomplishments her campaign team touts, Haley has only a handful of lawmakers from her home state publicly backing her campaign for the White House: state Reps. Ballentine, Chris Wooten and Mike Neese and state Sens. Davis and Wes Climer.

She also has support from former state House Speaker David Wilkins, former House Majority Leader Kenny Bingham, former state Rep. Ted Pitts and current U.S. Congressman Ralph Norman, who served in the South Carolina House while Haley was governor and a state representative. However, the Haley campaign has not released a South Carolina endorsement list yet.

But her style that bothered lawmakers from time to time is what her supporters now say is a plus.

She was just relentless about (business) recruiting, Norman said. Thats her hallmark of getting down into the weeds and doing what it takes to grow a state that could have fallen behind in letting good businesses go to other states. Shes tough. Shes very street smart and has a vision for the state and the country.

In contrast to Haley, one of her Republican rivals in the 2024 presidential race, Tim Scott, a fellow South Carolinian who spent only two years in the State House before his election to Congress, has racked up endorsements from more than 30 current and former lawmakers nearly out of the gate, including former Speaker Harrell, who was sentenced to three years probation after pleading guilty to state ethics charges.

Haley backers say its not surprising Scott has a higher legislator endorsement count because having a relationship with a sitting senator could help lawmakers in the future.

Whether its likeability or whether its respect, I dont think you read anything into that other than politicians like to be in the picture, said Pitts, who also worked as Haleys chief of staff during her first term. So standing behind Tim Scott, who we all have a lot of respect for, doesnt surprise me. Whether hes elected president or not, they still have a need for him to answer their call later.

U.S. Rep. Tim Scott speaks Monday to reporters at the South Carolina Statehouse after being officially introduced by Gov. Nikki Haley to fill the vacant U.S.. Senate seat vacated by departing U. S. Sen. Jim DeMint, far right.

How would she work with Congress?

Whoever is elected president will have to work with Congress to accomplish an agenda. Traditionally, its easier in the first two years of an administration when the House of Representatives is more likely to be controlled by the same party that controls the White House.

Haley already on the campaign trail has blamed both major parties for budget deficits and growing debt facing the nation.

Norman said Haley will have a style that is useful when working with Congress.

Some that disagree with her, some that want to go after her, which is fine. She welcomes that, Norman said. Shes not afraid of confrontation, and thats what we need now. Shes going to have to fight the lobbyists, the special interest groups to get this country back on track financially; shes going to have to say no. Shes going to have to tell people no, when theyve always been told yes.

With Washington known for its gridlock, will Haley be able to move her priorities forward when even when she clashes with members of her own party?

The difference is that Congress seems to make a point of not getting along. And theyre not like South Carolina, said state House Minority Leader Todd Rutherford, a Richland County Democrat who said he can sit down and have dinner with Republicans in South Carolina. You have to do that here. They dont have to do that there. And so that may make people happy that she doesnt get along with people that she needs to in order to get things done.

Davis said he expects Haley wont be afraid to take a position in Washington.

When youre in that type of context, the only time youre going to affect the change thats needed is from the outside in, Davis said. Youre going to need to galvanize people, youre going to need to let the people know whats going on up there in D.C. And, quite frankly, youre going to have to name names and point out who the problem is and then use the bully pulpit to hold them accountable. And Haleys got that skill set.
PHILADELPHIA  Last week, a local Indiana chapter of Moms for Liberty attracted attention for quoting Adolf Hitler in its newsletter. After the local paper reported the story, the group added additional context but kept the quote. Eventually, after it faced even more scrutiny, the organization removed the quote and apologized in a statement posted to its Facebook group.

That, however, was a big mistake, according to advice at the Moms for Liberty national conferences media training session Friday.

Never apologize. Ever, said Christian Ziegler, the chairman of the Florida Republican Party. This is my view. Other people have different views on this. I think apologizing makes you weak.

He advised the attendees to instead make it clear that the Hitler comment was vile but to immediately pivot to make the point that Hitler indoctrinated children in schools and that thats what Moms for Liberty was fighting against. Ziegler warned that any apology would become the headline, so that should be avoided.

UNITED STATES - NOVEMBER 2: Christian Ziegler attends a rally at the Hillsborough County Republican Party office in Tampa on November 2, 2018. (Tom Williams / CQ Roll Call via AP file)

Moms for Liberty, which says it is nonpartisan, has grown into a conservative powerhouse, boasting 120,000 members in 285 chapters across 44 states. The group started in Brevard County, Florida, in 2021, initially to fight Covid restrictions and mask mandates.

It has morphed into a sprawling organization that aims to fight for what it sees as parental rights but that critics, including the left-leaning Southern Poverty Law Center, label anti-government extremism. Its members have removed books they deem inappropriate from public school libraries and have pushed to end what they see as the indoctrination of children on such topics as race, gender and sexuality.

The group is holding its second annual national conference here this week, drawing the five GOP presidential candidates, including former President Donald Trump and Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis.

Ziegler conducted his training during a breakout session, giving more than 100 attendees a lesson in how to deal with the media as the activists attract more attention and scrutiny.

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He is the husband of Bridget Ziegler, one of the co-founders of Moms for Liberty, who later left the organization in an official capacity and was appointed by DeSantis to his Disney oversight board this spring. She introduced her husband at the session.

In a follow-up conversation Saturday, Ziegler called it a very 101 presentation in which he was just giving some ideas.

The sessions are normally closed to the media, but Moms for Liberty co-founder Tiffany Justice invited NBC News to attend. A spokesperson for the organization later disputed the invitation, and Ziegler said he believed the session was closed to the media. An NBC News reporter offered proper identification to two staff members working the session and presented media credentials at the door.

In a written statement, co-founders Justice and Tina Descovich said: We hosted more than 100 members of the media at our national summit in Philadelphia  including NBC. The brokenness of our K-12 public education system in America cannot be hidden, and that is why we are proud that so many of our members are brave enough to do interviews with reporters  even when they are not fair or kind.

The session gave a glimpse into how these parents  many of them newly engaged activists  are trying to shape the media narrative as they become more powerful within the Republican Party and the candidates court their favor ahead of the 2024 elections.

Zieglers main message was clear: The media is not your friend.

If you give [the media] the least amount possible, youre fully controlling the message, he said. The more you give them, the less you control. The less you give them, the more you control.

Attendees asked Ziegler how to persuade reporters to go to their events and how to get positive messages out. Zieglers presentation emphasized the importance of being on the offensive and not letting your guard down.

Theyre lazy, Ziegler said of reporters. They have no idea whats going on at school board meetings. Oftentimes they dont even know how local government works.

He also told attendees to give priority to local news interviews instead of going to national media.

Thats where you reach the undecideds, he said, adding that people who watch Fox News or MSNBC probably know how theyre going to vote but that consumers of local news may not.

Moms for Liberty co-founder Tiffany Justice speaks at their meeting, in Philadelphia, Friday, June 30, 2023. (Matt Rourke / AP)

Ziegler told attendees to look for opportunities to rattle their opponents, and he shared as an example a tactic to mess with a political opponents head. It involved printing out a direct mail piece that goes to 50 of the opponents friends and neighbors  but that the person will believe went to the whole town.

Theyre totally paranoid, Ziegler said. And theyve burned three days of productivity because theyre spending time worrying about a mailer that went out to only a few dozen people.

In an interview later, Ziegler described the mailer discussion as an off-the-cuff example for campaigns that has nothing to do with the media training.

Attendees took notes and several photos of the accompanying PowerPoint presentation, titled (wo)manhandling the media. Other breakout sessions included presentations titled Comprehensive Sex Education: Sex Ed or Sexualization and Dream Team: Winning Campaigns Have Winning Teams  Whats Your Role?

Co-founders Justice and Descovich expressed sympathy for members of some of their chapters who have had unflattering media coverage and been accused of harassing teachers or school board members.

In an interview, Descovich said she believes its the organizations role to help [moms] to learn and grow and to be effective advocates as Moms for Liberty continues to grow.

They havent had media training, Descovich said. The pressure theyre under just stepping up to speak for their kids is a mess.

This article was originally published on NBCNews.com
Update, 5:19 p.m.: Clermont County is no longer under a severe thunderstorm warning. The warning issued by the National Weather Service in Wilmington expired at 5 p.m.

Update, 4:27 p.m.: A severe thunderstorm warning for parts of Butler, Hamilton and Warren counties has expired. Clermont County is now under a warning.

As of 4:15 p.m., Butler, Hamilton and Warren counties are no longer under a warning.

The National Weather Service in Wilmington issued the warning for south central Clermont County in effect until 5 p.m. The storm was moving eastbound at 25 mph with possible quarter-size hail.

Update, 3:40 p.m.: The National Weather Service in Wilmington has issued a severe thunderstorm warning forparts of Butler, Hamilton and Warren counties until 4:15 p.m.

A severe thunderstorm was located over Forest Park,moving east at 25 mph. Radar indicated 60 mph wind gusts and quarter-size hail.

Locations impacted include Hamilton, Fairfield, Mason, Lebanon, Forest Park, Sharonville, Monroe, Blue Ash, Loveland, Springdale, Reading, Montgomery, Wyoming, Mount Healthy, Finneytown, West Chester, Ross, Highpoint,Dunlap and Pleasant Hills.

Severe Thunderstorm Warning including Fairfield OH, Mason OH and Forest Park OH until 4:15 PM EDT pic.twitter.com/Ld3AHE2NOh  NWS Wilmington OH (@NWSILN) July 2, 2023

Update, 3:30 p.m.: The severe thunderstorm warning for western Butler County and northwestern Hamilton County was allowed to expire.

The storm which prompted the warning has weakened below severe limits, and no longer poses an immediate threat to life or property. The weather service said gusty winds are still possible with this thunderstorm.

A Severe Thunderstorm Watch remains in effect until 9 p.m. for southeastern Indianaand southwestern Ohio.

Please report previous wind damage or hail to the National Weather Service by going to the website or submitting reports via social media.

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Update, 3:25 p.m.: The National Weather Service has issued a severe thunderstorm warning for east central Switzerland County in southeastern Indiana and southern Kenton, southern Boone, northern Grant , north central Pendleton and Gallitan counties in northern Kentucky until 4 p.m.

A severe thunderstorm was located near Warsaw, moving east at 25 mph. Radar indicated 60 mph wind gusts and quarter-size hail.

Locations impacted include Covington, Independence, Williamstown, Walton, Crittenden, DryRidge, Warsaw, Florence, Kentucky Speedway, Ryland Heights, Glencoe, Sparta, Visalia, Atwood, Ryle, Northcutt, Interstate 71 at US Route 127, Steele Bottom, Bracht and Gardnersville.

Previous reporting: The National Weather Service has issued a severe thunderstorm warning for southeastern Franklin County and northeastern Dearborn County in Southeast Indiana and western Butler County and northwest Hamilton County in Southwest Ohio until 3:30 p.m.

A severe thunderstorm was located near Bright, Indiana, moving northeast at 35 mph. Radar indicated 60 mph wind gusts and quarter-size hail.

Severe Thunderstorm Warning including Dent OH, Harrison IN and North College Hill OH until 3:30 PM EDT pic.twitter.com/cUhPg758YD  NWS Wilmington OH (@NWSILN) July 2, 2023

Ohio locations that could be impacted include Cincinnati, Hamilton, Fairfield, Oxford, Forest Park, Harrison, North College Hill, Mount Healthy, Hidden Valley, Finneytown, Ross, Cleves, Shawnee, Taylor Creek, MiamiHeights, Dry Ridge, Blue Jay and Dunlap.

There is a severe thunderstorm watch for a large portion of Indiana and Ohio through 9 p.m.

[2:12 PM] Severe Thunderstorm Watch in effect until 9 PM. pic.twitter.com/jq2M81J0td  NWS Wilmington OH (@NWSILN) July 2, 2023

The National Weather Service is responsible for issuing severe weather watches, warnings and advisories to alert the public when dangerous weather conditions are expected.

Watch - A weather watch means there is the potential or conditions exist for a dangerous weather event.

Warning - A weather warning means that a dangerous weather event is imminent. Immediate action must be taken to protect life and property.

Advisory - A weather advisory means weather conditions that are less serious than a warning are imminent. These events may cause a significant inconvenience, and if caution is not exercised, it could lead to a situation that may be threatening to life and property.

This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: Parts of Ohio, Indiana and NKY no longer under thunderstorm warning
Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis enters The Yale Club in New York City on Thursday, June 29, 2023.

Gov. Ron DeSantis is not the first Florida governor to run for the highest office in the land. Andrew Jackson, who was appointed governor of the Florida Territories, was the first to run, and after a failed attempt in 1824, was elected and reelected in the next two contests.

Like DeSantis, Jackson rose from modest means to accomplish much. His fame was the result of his military exploits, called Old Hickory for his toughness. DeSantis touts his rise to the top of state politics as the champion of the Free State of Florida. There are, however, several similarities of political views and personal characteristics that are more than a bit troubling to think of in a potential DeSantis presidency.

Both men have expressed strong support for states rights and limited federal government. Jackson vowed in his second inaugural address, my countrymen will ever find me ready to exercise my constitutional powers in arresting measures that may directly or indirectly encroach upon the rights of state or tend to consolidate all political power in the general government. But once in office he greatly expanded the role of the president and his administration, setting a precedent for 200 years of expanding power, bypassing Congress, using a kitchen cabinet of supporters and imposing his own personal views.

DeSantis has followed that example at the state level with the same effect, creating an administration, cabinet, judicial officers and legislature absolutely responsive to his own personal views. We can look forward to seeing that model in Washington.

Andrew Jackson, seventh U.S. President.

Jackson disliked Native Americans, not just for their attacks on whites, but also because they stood in the way of expansion of settlers in Florida, Georgia, and further west. DeSantis rhetoric on immigration sounds very familiar, prohibiting services and shipping families off to other states. Not as bad as the Trail of Tears, but a start.

Jacksons intense dislike for his political predecessors and opponents sounds very similar to the anti-Biden/Obama/Fauci/Garland vilification we are hearing today from the governor on the campaign trail. The governors war against ESG investment firms has led to Florida funds going to businesses of donors and friends. Jacksons sunsetting of the Federal Bank led to him making deposits in state and local banks and was a contributing factor in an economic crisis in his second term.

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The most worrisome similarity between President Andrew Jackson and a possible future president Ron DeSantis is personality. Both men have demonstrated a very thin skin for criticism, taken great offense at policy opposition, been quick to anger, demand unwavering loyalty and ruthless in seeing personal objectives achieved. These Trumpian traits we have endured before and may yet return.

Sure, there are differences between Gov. DeSantis and President Jackson. Jackson was a favorite of the common man, a connection the Ivy-league educated governor is struggling to become. Jackson increased the eligibility for more people to vote (men only, of course). DeSantis has sought to limit it. Jackson fought over 100 duels to redress any perceived slight. DeSantis just suspends or dismisses elected and appointed officials who disagree with him.

Jackson was sparsely educated but became a military officer, lawyer, judge, congressman, senator, and president. DeSantis is highly educated with a bright, analytical mind. But he has chosen to make a campaign out of things to be against, rather than for, trying to be further right than Trump ever was. We may end up with a President DeSantis more like a Young Hickory: a very tough nut to crack and bitter to eat.

Jim Croteau

Tallahassee resident Jim Croteau is a former education administrator and social services director.

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This article originally appeared on Tallahassee Democrat: Ron DeSantis, Andrew Jackson: More like than what we think
1. Yes. Voters across the city filled the seat in the first place. Voters should decide again.

2. Yes. An election is much preferable to back-room decisions among council members.

3. No. The charter calls for the council to fill the vacancy by appointment. Follow the rules.

4. No. An election would be expensive, both for the city and for the potential candidates.

5. Unsure. An election seems more transparent, but its not the perfect answer.

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Toward the end of June, major decisions from the U.S. Supreme Court come fast and furious, to the point where its difficult to do more than note each one and move on to the next.

Exceptions, though, are two important decisions on voting rights, both written by Chief Justice John Roberts. Together, they provide reassurance that representative democracys values, under assault as never before, have come back into focus for the nations highest court.

Douglas Rooks

The more recent, Moore v. Harper, handed down Tuesday, put to bed the independent state legislature theory advanced by Republican lawmakers who contended, essentially, that they could draw whatever electoral maps they wanted, impervious to any court review, state or federal.

That contention had chilling implications since, in two cases decided in 2019, as Roberts wrote, partisan gerrymandering claims present political questions beyond the reach of the federal courts.

In the 6-3 decision, Roberts won the votes of two Donald Trump appointees, Brett Kavanaugh and Amy Coney Barrett, a sign hes reasserting control after the disastrous Dobbs abortion decision by Samuel Alito that found Roberts in a 5-4 minority, isolated from his fellow Republican appointees.

Had the court given any credence to independent legislatures, it would have spawned even more extreme versions of gerrymandering. In North Carolina, the Republicans map would have likely given them 10 of the states 14 congressional seats, though voters divide almost evenly.

The earlier decision, Allen v. Milligan, involving Alabama maps, is even more interesting, because it shows the chief justice reevaluating his own work.

One of Roberts most famous, or notorious, decisions is Shelby County v. Holder, a 5-4 ruling in 2013 striking down major provisions of the 1965 Voting Rights Act. As enacted, it allowed Black citizens to vote in large numbers throughout Southern states long denying them the franchise.

Roberts took aim at the preclearance provisions of Section 3 requiring federal Department of Justice advance approval for any election law changes  state, county or municipal. He wondered why, a half century later, whether such intrusive scrutiny was justified.

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One never knows what justices think of the consequences of their own rulings, but Allen suggests rethinking on Roberts part.

The zeal with which Southern legislatures, virtually all Republican, began enacting potentially discriminatory and vote suppression measures was a sight to see.

When it came to another pillar of the Voting Rights Act, Section 2, which requires that Black voters be represented in substantially equal terms, Roberts drew a firm line.

The map in question in Allen  which was in effect in the 2022 election and copied in other states  offered only one majority Black district among seven in Alabama, even though Blacks represent a third of the electorate.

In fact, the net effect was to hand Republicans five seats  exactly equal to their current majority in the House of Representatives. Those maps are now thrown out.

The Alabama challenge, like the one in North Carolina, was a test of whether a temporary majority from one party can result in rule changes to keep that party in power permanently, whether voters agree or not.

This isnt a trivial concern. In neighboring New Hampshire, Democrats polled a majority of state Senate votes in 2022, yet won only 10 of 24 seats, thanks to a Republican-drawn map.

In Allen, Roberts won over only Kavanaugh, along with the three Democratic appointees, but it was enough to show that, when the chips are down on bedrock matters of representation, the court will not decide along strictly partisan lines.

Was that surprising? It depends on how you see the justices.

Alito and the longest-service justice, Clarence Thomas, can come across as angry, even bitter, as well as being ethically challenged thanks to flouting financial reporting norms.

Roberts is harder to pigeonhole. He clearly cares about the courts legacy, and is trying to maneuver himself back into the role of lead decider, first among equals as successful chief justices have always been.

In the North Carolina case, he took one of the key arguments of the plaintiffs, that an 1892 decision known as McPherson validated their theory that legislative prerogatives overrode all else. It involved, however, selection of Electors for president granted by the Constitution, not Congressional district lines, as Roberts pointed out.

And he quoted the conclusion of the McPherson decisions author and his own predecessor, Chief Justice Melville Weston Fuller, that the legislative power is the supreme power except as limited by the constitution of the State.

Each branch of government has its own powers, and its own limits. That was the courts message to Americans, who would do well to heed it.

Douglas Rooks has been a Maine editor, columnist and reporter since 1984. His new book, "Calm Command: U.S. Chief Justice Melville Fuller in His Times, 1888-1910," will be published later this year. He welcomes comment at drooks@tds.net.

This article originally appeared on Portsmouth Herald: Rooks: U.S. Supreme Court upholds representation and democracy
A month after officials lifted a rare public health emergency order at Wayne County's juvenile jail, the facility is again under around-the-clock monitoring by state employees because of a recent incident.

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services confirmed Friday that it reinstated staff monitoring at the Wayne County Juvenile Detention Facility (JDF) on June 20 out of an abundance of caution after being alerted to an incident that is now under investigation by the state.

The state had been stationing staffers at the facility 24 hours a day, seven days a week following the alleged sexual assault of a youth there in March. But when the county rescinded its emergency order early last month, the state stopped that monitoring.

That changed about two weeks later after the county notified the state about an incident that had occurred at the facility. Details about what happened to prompt the renewed monitoring were not released, but the state health department confirmed it is investigating the incident.

MDHHS maintains presence at Wayne County Juvenile Detention Facility to help assure the safety of the youth and staff and to provide support when necessary, MDHHS spokesperson Bob Wheaton said in an email Friday. Currently, MDHHS has one employee at the facility during every shift and we will adjust our presence as needed to support the needs of the facility.

In an email Saturday, county spokesperson Kimberly Harry said: "On June 20, consistent monitoring resumed following an alleged incident, of which we are not at liberty to comment as it is an on-going investigation."

In March, the county issued a public health emergency order at the JDF, which was overcrowded and understaffed. The order came as the facility was dealing with serious problems, including the alleged sexual assault of a 12-year-old boy by other youths at the facility. The alleged attack is still under investigation by Michigan State Police.

Story continues

The county rescinded the order on June 5, saying more staff had been hired, employee pay was increased and the juvenile population was down.

State health department officials told the Free Press at the time that the situation at the facility had improved enough that there was no longer a need for around-the-clock monitoring.

In light of the public health emergency winding down, DHHS will no longer need to maintain a 24-hour presence at the facility, Suzanna Shkreli, the state's director of juvenile justice reform, told the Free Press in an interview June 2.

Asked when the state would end the 24/7 monitoring, Shkreli said: So June 5 is when the state of emergency ... is set to expire and thats when we intend to wind down our presence there.

Wheaton confirmed 24/7 monitoring by MDHHS at the JDF ended June 5 and resumed on June 20. He said MDHHS recognizes Wayne County has made progress on addressing conditions at the JDF.

MDHHS continues to support Wayne County Juvenile Detention Facility in various ways, including providing resources on technical assistance through the Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention, he said.

In early June, there had been a drop in the juvenile population at the facility, down to 113 around the time the emergency order was lifted. As of Tuesday, the population had grown to 141. That included 65 youths whose cases have been adjudicated.

Statewide, there has been a shortage of facilities where youths who have been ordered into treatment can be sent, sometimes leaving them to languish for months in the juvenile jail while they await placement.

Before the county declared the public health emergency, the Detroit Free Press had been documenting issues at the JDF for months as part of an ongoing investigation that detailed troubling conditions, including lengthy room confinements; youths being denied daily showers, recreation and medication, and the lack of schooling.

More Problems we found at the Wayne County juvenile jail

More: Michigan top health official: Reports from inside Wayne juvenile jail 'highly concerning'

In October, to improve safety, the county moved youths from the old juvenile detention facility in Detroit to the William Dickerson Detention Facility, a vacant adult jail in Hamtramck. But problems continued, including youths regularly breaking out of their rooms.

The issues caught the attention of a state Senate subcommittee, which held a special hearing on the problems in March.

Last month, as the emergency order was coming to an end, Dr. Abdul El-Sayed, director of the county's Department of Health, Human and Veteran Services, said youths were out of their rooms most of the day, getting daily showers and that assaults  both on other youths and staff  were down.

Under the public health emergency order, the county also took measures to improve safety by opening additional pods, where the youths are housed, and by grouping them in smaller numbers by age and alleged offense. Also, Team Wellness Center, a local service provider, was tapped to offer treatment to youths inside of the JDF and through a community day program. According to the county, those services are expected to start this month.

Free Press staff writer Christine MacDonald contributed to this report.

Contact Gina Kaufman: gkaufman@freepress.com. Follow her on Twitter: @ReporterGina.

This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Michigan health department again monitoring Wayne County juvenile jail
Two massage parlor owners were arrested for operating brothels in their South Carolina businesses, the Charleston Police Department said.

After receiving information from CrimeStoppers and the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division, Charleston officers investigated both the Orange Massage Spa (at 1124 Sam Rittenberg Boulevard), and the Golden Massage Spa (at 1649 Savannah Highway), police said in a news release.

The officers discovered illicit services were being offered and sold, and the owner of both businesses, 56-year-old West Ashley resident Wen Xu, was arrested and charged with two counts of sex/prostitution for operating a brothel, according to the release.

Police said they also received an anonymous tip about prostitution at the Lucky Spa (at 1703 Savannah Highway), which is about 500 feet from the Golden Massage Spa. An investigation uncovered illicit services were also being offered and sold at the Lucky Spa, according to the release.

The owner of the Lucky Spa, 41-year-old West Ashley resident Taihua Xianyu, was arrested and charged with one count of sex/prostitution for operating a brothel, police said.

Both Xu and Xianyu were booked into the Al Cannon Detention Center and were released after their bonds were set at $930 and $2,125 respectively, Charleston County court records show. Both Xu and Xianyu are scheduled to appear in court again on Aug. 1, according to judicial records.

The Charleston Police Departments human trafficking task force led the investigations, and got assistance from SLED, Homeland Security Investigations, the Charleston County Aviation Authority, the Charleston Fire Marshal Division, and the Summerville Police Department.

Despite the arrests, the investigations are ongoing. Anyone with information is asked to call police at 843-720-2422, or Lowcountry CrimeStoppers at 843-554-1111.

Investigations like this are an example of how valuable CrimeStoppers tips and law enforcement partnerships are to stopping nefarious activity in our community, police Capt. Andre Jenkins said in the release.
The Wager: A Tale of Shipwreck, Mutiny and Murder by David Grann was published by Doubleday Books on April 18. It retails for $30.

Rachel Fowler and other Inklings booksellers review books in this space every week.
You are the owner of this article.
A bus carrying migrants from a Texas border city has arrived in downtown Los Angeles for the second time in less than three weeks
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Some lawmakers ought to be blushing at the levels of plagiarism that are taking place in the U.S. Capitol these days.
Today

Except for a few afternoon clouds, mainly sunny. Near record high temperatures. High 117F. Winds SW at 5 to 10 mph.

Tonight

Partly cloudy. Low 87F. Winds S at 5 to 10 mph.

Tomorrow

Partly cloudy skies. Near record high temperatures. High 113F. Winds S at 10 to 20 mph.
India's largest domestic airline, IndiGo, is on an expansion spree and announced to connect various countries in the Central Asia and Africa via direct flights. Many of these routes announced by IndiGo Airline are not connected directly by any airline, or at least in some cases, by an Indian airline. The budget air carrier aims to dominate the international air routes like its untouched supremacy in the domestic market. Once these routes are operational, IndiGo will be connecting a total of 32 international destinations compared to 26 routes before the announcement was made early this year.

International Flights Launched in 2023

The airline is embarking on a "massive" international expansion plan as the air carrier has now announced to connect Nairobi in Kenya and Jakarta in Indonesia with direct flights from Mumbai last month. On the other hand, IndiGo also announced to connect Tbilisi in Georgia, with direct flights from Delhi yesterday. With the launch of these three flights, the total cities connected by international flights of IndiGo stand at 29, while the airline connects 107 destinations overall.

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Upcoming International Flights

IndiGo Airline announced to launch 6 new routes in 2023, taking its tally from 26 to 32 in 2023. While direct flights to Georgia, Indonesia and Kenya have already been announced, the brand will later launch flights to Hong Kong, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan and Azerbaijan. Among these, the flights to Hong Kong will be restarted as the route was closed due to Covid-19.

The rest three will be new routes, taking the total tally of the airline to 32 international cities and 110 overall. In a statement issued earlier, IndiGo said that they will launch direct flights from Delhi to Baku, Azerbaijan in August and in September to Tashkent, Uzbekistan, and Kazakhstan. "Delhi will get connected in August to Tbilisi, Georgia & Baku, Azerbaijan and in September to Tashkent, Uzbekistan, and Almaty, Kazakhstan," IndiGo said in a release.

International Expansion Plans

The expansion comes at a time when there is a rising demand for international travel from, to and via India, as well as the government's efforts to develop an international aviation hub in the country. IndiGo said it will be adding an "impressive 174 new weekly international flights between June and September 2023, including new destinations, routes, and frequencies".

"The addition of these exciting new destinations, new direct flight routes, enhanced flight frequencies, and strategic codeshare partnerships, will help us expand our footprint across four continents with Africa and Central Asia being penetrated for the first time. With this expansion in our network, we will now be directly touching 32 international destinations (up from 26), next to our 78 domestic destinations," IndiGo CEO Pieter Elbers said.

Indian Airlines Flying International

IndiGo Airline is competing against Air India and Vistara to dominate the international air routes. Once all the routes are launched as announced, Indigo will become the second biggest Indian airline to operate on international routes, just behind Air India. However, in the passenger carrying capacity, the airline surpassed Air India in the Q1 2023. Next in the line is Air Vistara, which largely operates to the European nations.

Go First, which used to operate on Middle Eastern routes has filed for bankruptcy and grounded all its planes since last 2 months. On the other hand, the Air India Express connects mostly to Gulf nations only. Among these, Air India will merge with Vistara and once that happens, it will be the biggest international airline in India.
In a shocking political development, Ajit Pawar, a prominent leader of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) and the nephew of veteran politician Sharad Pawar, has dealt a severe blow to the party that his uncle founded and has led through various challenges for the past 24 years. Ajit Pawar's decision to break away from the NCP and join forces with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has sent shockwaves through the political landscape of Maharashtra. This move comes as a significant setback to Sharad Pawar's attempts to forge a formidable opposition alliance against the ruling government.

1. NCP's Turmoil: Ajit Pawar, a prominent leader of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) and the nephew of Sharad Pawar, poses a significant challenge to his uncle's party by breaking away with several NCP MLAs, risking the party's stability that Sharad Pawar has nurtured for over two decades.

2. BJP's Strategic Move: In a remarkable turn of events, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) successfully disrupts the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) opposition alliance in Maharashtra for the second time in two years. Ajit Pawar's defection follows the previous departure of Eknath Shinde, who took 40 Shiv Sena MLAs with him.



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3. Swearing-in Ceremony: Ajit Pawar, along with eight other party leaders, took oath and joined the Maharashtra government. He assumes the role of Deputy Chief Minister, sharing the position with BJP's Devendra Fadnavis.

4. Prominent Attendees: The oath ceremony witnessed the presence of influential leaders such as Praful Patel, recently appointed working president of the NCP, Supriya Sule, Chhagan Bhujbal, Dilip Walse Patil, Hasan Mushrif, Ramraje Nimbalkar, Dhananjay Munde, Aditi Tatkare, Sanjay Bansode, Dharmrav Baba Atram, and Anil Bhaidas Patil.

5. Cabinet Expansion: Devendra Fadnavis, BJP leader, had earlier indicated that the Maharashtra cabinet would be expanded soon, leading to speculation about potential political developments.

6. Meetings with BJP: Eknath Shinde, in a separate incident, had recently met BJP leaders in Delhi, raising eyebrows and fueling speculation about the future of the MVA alliance.

7. Triple Engine Government: Eknath Shinde, expressing his thoughts after the ceremony, acknowledged the new dynamics, highlighting that Maharashtra now has one Chief Minister and two Deputy Chief Ministers, terming it a "triple-engine" government that will leverage Ajit Pawar's experience for the state's development.

8. Internal Party Dynamics: Ajit Pawar's decision to step down as the Leader of Opposition in the state assembly, along with Supriya Sule's elevation as the NCP's national president after Sharad Pawar's surprising resignation offer, reveals the evolving internal dynamics of the party.

9. NCP's Options: While Ajit Pawar claims the support of over 40 NCP MLAs out of the total 53 in the state assembly, the NCP can still pursue disqualification proceedings against the rebel MLAs under the 10th Schedule of the Constitution. Ajit Pawar needs to establish himself as the original NCP by approaching the Election Commission of India under the Symbols Order.

10. Coalition Challenges: The Maha Vikas Aghadi coalition, which includes the NCP, faces its second major setback in a year. Previously, the Shiv Sena experienced a mutiny that led to the collapse of Uddhav Thackeray's government, with support from rebel MLAs and the BJP's involvement. The BJP denied allegations of inducement and manipulation, emphasizing stability and good governance as the reasons for its intervention.
New Delhi: As senior Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) leader Ajit Pawar took oath as his deputy, Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde on Sunday said that such things happen when a 'deserving party worker' gets a 'secondary role'. Speaking to reporters, Shinde said that now the double engine government has a 'triple engine'.

"Politics of development is being backed by a man of development. When a deserving party worker gets a secondary role, such things happen," Eknath Shinde said about Ajit Pawar, the nephew of Sharad Pawar, who is known to display rebellious streaks.

"Now the double engine government has a triple engine. The state will sprint (on the path of development). Now we have one CM and two deputy chief ministers. This will help faster development of the state," Shinde added.



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Ajit Pawar takes oath as deputy CM in Eknath Shinde-led govt

Ajit Pawar on Sunday marked a vertical split in his uncle's Sharad Pawar's Nationalist Congress Party and joined the Eknath Shinde-led Maharashtra government as deputy chief minister.

While Ajit Pawar was sworn in as the deputy CM by Maharashtra Governor Ramesh Bais at the ceremony held in the Raj Bhawan, eight other NCP leaders took oath as ministers. Those who were sworn in as ministers are Chhagan Bhujbal, Dilip Walse Patil, Hasan Mushrif, Dhananjay Munde, Aditi Tatkare, Dharmarao Atram, Anil Patil and Sanjay Bansode.

Maharashtra Assembly Speaker Rahul Narwekar, who was present in the Raj Bhawan, said Ajit Pawar has resigned as the leader of opposition (LoP) in the Lower House and he has accepted it.

Deputy Speaker Narhari Zirwal and NCP working president Praful Patel were also present at the Raj Bhawan.

Maharashtra BJP president Chandrashekhar Bawankule claimed 40 MLAs of NCP (out of the total 53) have supported the state government.

The presence of NCP supremo Sharad Pawar and party's working president Supriya Sule at the Opposition meeting in Patna last month had reportedly irked Ajit Pawar and his supporters.

Elections to the 288-member state Assembly are due next year.

Maharashtra sees four oath-taking ceremonies in four years

The swearing-in of Ajit Pawar as deputy chief minister has meant Maharashtra has seen four oath-taking ceremonies in as many years at its stately Raj Bhavan.

In November 2019, after the Assembly polls and the split between the Bharatiya Janata Party and the Shiv Sena, Devendra Fadnavis and NCP's Ajit Pawar were sworn in as CM and Deputy CM, respectively, in an early morning ceremony in Raj Bhavan. The government lasted just 80 hours as Pawar was unable to cause a split in his party.

Within a month, Shiv Sena leader Uddhav Thackeray was sworn in as CM after his party joined hands with the NCP and Congress to form the Maha Vikas Aghadi government. Incidentally, Ajit Pawar, who had returned to the NCP, was the deputy CM in this government.

The MVA government fell in June last year after minister Eknath Shinde and 39 MLAs revolted against Thackeray and split the Shiv Sena.

Shinde was sworn in as CM on June 30 with the support of the BJP. This time, Fadnavis as made deputy CM.

While Bhagat Singh Koshyari was the governor when the first three oath-taking ceremonies took place, Sunday's political developments have come when Ramesh Bais is occupying the gubernatorial chair.

Assembly polls in Maharashtra are likely to be held around October next year, some months after the Lok Sabha elections.
Magical Journey Of Harry Potter: If you haven't been living under a rock, then I'm pretty confident that most of you have heard of the Harry Potter series. The majority of you, though, may not be familiar with Joanne Rowling or J.K. Rowling. If you're curious about who she is, allow me to introduce you to the author of the most popular bestseller series in history. This amazing woman is extraordinary and inspirational in every way. Despite being one of the most fascinating success stories, things weren't always perfect for Rowling. Few people are aware of the specific circumstances surrounding her ascent to fame. Many people are unaware of the obstacles she had to overcome before becoming famous. Her journey from nearly living in poverty to Forbes' designation as the first billionaire author in the world is incredibly motivating.

JK Rowling: Background

JK Rowling, who is currently 58 years old, was born at the Cottage Hospital in Yate on July 31, 1965, a date that is particularly significant to Potterheads. She was the older sister of Dianne, who was two years younger than her, and came from a very typical middle-class family. She had always dreamed of being a writer, but she was compelled to major in French Classics at the University of Exeter even though she preferred to write. At the Manchester Chamber of Commerce, she had previously worked as a bilingual secretary.



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Failures, Chaotic Personal Life

Real success, so the saying goes, follows a string of failures. With Rowling, that is exactly what transpired. She had a chaotic personal life, which made every day difficult for her. She created the entire story from an idea while travelling from Manchester to London on a train one fine morning in 1990. It was during that voyage that she began to conceive the Harry Potter story. Sadly, her mother passed away later that year, which caused her writing to be put on hold for a while. She travelled to Portugal in 1992 to teach English as a foreign language, but her life had other intentions. She married the man she met, they had a daughter. She separated from her husband of the time one year later, filing for divorce in 1993.

Jobless And Single Mother

Three chapters of Harry Potter were packed in her bag when she and her infant daughter relocated to Edinburgh, Scotland, to be close to her sister. This was the pivotal moment in her life. The time in Rowling's life when she was divorced, jobless, and a single parent of a baby was the most traumatic. Despite having significant depression episodes, she persisted. She persevered through the hardships life would bring her even when it was dark and dreary, always looking for the light at the end of the tunnel.

Harry Potter Manuscript: Rejected 12 Times

Rowling finished the first draught of her book's manuscript in 1995, but she lacked the funds to self-publish it. She contacted 12 prominent publications, but they all turned down her Harry Potter manuscript. She persisted in pursuing additional publications nonetheless and didn't give up. Her efforts paid off when a small publication agreed to publish 1000 copies of Harry Potter.

A Billion-Dollar Success Story

After the book received significant prizes, including the Nestle Smarties Book Prize and the British Book Award for Children's Book of the Year, things quickly began to change. The seven-volume book was released between 1997 and 2007. In 80 different languages, 500 million copies of Harry Potter had been sold as of 2013. And finally, a movie series based on the novel, making it a billion-dollar franchise. The Casual Vacancy, written by J.K. Rowling, was released as her first book for adults in 2012. Additionally, she is the creator of the popular crime fiction series Cormoran Strike.She has also consistently been listed as one of the highest-paid authors in the world.

The most important lesson to be learned from J.K. Rowling's life is to never give up on your aspirations. And you will achieve it one day, whether your goal is to become a successful entrepreneur or a book author. All you have to do is keep working hard and believing in your dreams. Success cannot be attained quickly. The only way to get there is through perseverance. It instills in us self-control, commitment, and tenacity. Getting back up after 100 falls.
Airbus, the French plane maker has rolled out the last and final BelugaXL cargo plane from its paint shop. The sixth unit of its oversized airlifter - the Airbus BelugaXL - marks the final installment in the manufacturers renewed lineup of these specialized carriers. The Beluga is often called the 'Whale' due to its resemblance to the Beluga Whale, on which its design is based. The plane maker shared a few images on the social media to give a preview of the upcoming transporter for large cargo operations. The Airbus BelugaXL is a super-sized transporter, and currently the largest civilian transport plane.

Sharing the pics of the freshly painted Airbus BelugaXL on Twitter, the planemaker wrote, "Something BIG has just sneaked out of our paint shop - check out our latest (and last) #BelugaXL as she gets ready to support outsized cargo operations!"

Something BIG has just sneaked out of our paint shop - check out our latest (and last) #BelugaXL as she gets ready to support outsized cargo operations! pic.twitter.com/GxPnMcdpPX  Airbus (@Airbus) June 29, 2023

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Airbus BelugaXL: Dimensions

With a length of 63.1 meters, a height of 18.9 meters, and a wingspan of 60.3 meters, it can hold cargo measuring 2,209 cubic meters  the largest among all civil or military aircraft currently in service. The Airbus BelugaXL is based on the Airbus A330-200 Freighter and entered service in 2020. It is powered by Rolls-Royce Trent 700 engines.

While Airbus BelugaXL is currently the largest civilian cargo plane, it was long overshadowed by the Antonov An-225 Mriya, the only of its kind aircraft that was destroyed in the ongoing Ukraine-Russia war. As for the BelugaXL, it is utilized by the European manufacturer for transporting aircraft components between its factories. Airbus operates manufacturing sites in France, Germany, Spain, and the UK.
Mumbai: Diving deep into Hindu mythology for the modern audience, director Prashanth Varma is all set to release his much awaited mythological-superhero-action film 'HanuMan' on January 12, 2024, in multiple languages. The creators have captured the attention of audiences with the teaser as well as by reciting the Hanuman Chalisa track. Talking about the film, Varma said, "Our aim was to craft a distinctive cinematic experience by blending elements from our rich culture into a contemporary narrative that connects with all age groups, and specially kids."

The story follows a young boy who is infused with the mighty power of Lord Hanuman. Using this divine strength, he confronts a malevolent 'Goliath'. The film's teaser had earlier piqued everyones curiosity by showing a chilling glimpse of Lord Hanuman meditating in a mystical cave and reciting the name of Ram. "I have worked 2 years of my life on this project and I am looking forward to bringing our grand vision to audiences from every corner of the nation," he added.





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Written and directed by Prasanth Varma, 'HanuMan' is part of the Prashanth Varma Cinematic Universe and envisions a superhero movie derived from Hindu mythology which would be deeply rooted in India's cultural heritage Starring Teja Sajja, Amritha Aiyer, and Vinay Rai in the lead roles, 'HanuMan' explores different aspects of Lord Hanuman and presents a reimagined version of the deity in a modern setting.

The film has been produced by K Niranjan Reddy and RKD Studios, with Venkat Kumar Jetty serving as the line producer and Kushal Reddy as associate producer.
Success doesn't have a fixed path. It comes to people in different ways. While working hard may be one of the key ingredients of success recipe, it needs more than just that to achieve what you dream of achieving in life. Who would have thought that son of a coolie who once failed in 6th class will rise to such a stature in life that he will become an inspiration for many. We are talking about PC Musthafa who hails from a remote Kerala village.

Tryst With Poverty

P.C. Musthafa, the co-founder and CEO of ID Fresh Food, has an inspiring journey from humble beginnings to building a successful food company. Born into a financially challenged family in a small village in Kerala, Musthafa faced numerous obstacles on his path to success. He left school after failing in class 6th and used to help his father in farm works. They used to earn Rs 10 per day and were unable to feed their family. Later, a teacher helped Musthafa return to school, complete his studies.

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Driven by a strong desire to break free from the cycle of poverty, Musthafa pursued education as a means to create a better future. After completing his studies, he worked as a software engineer but soon realized his true passion lay in entrepreneurship.

Birth Of ID Fresh Food And Struggle

In 2005, along with his cousins, Musthafa started ID Fresh Food, a company that produces and sells fresh, ready-to-cook food products. Initially operating from a small kitchen, the company faced challenges in terms of scaling operations and gaining market acceptance. Starting with an initial investment of Rs 50,000, Musthafa PC embarked on his journey with ID Fresh Food, operating from a modest 50 square foot kitchen equipped with a grinder, mixer, and weighing machine. It took them a span of nine months to achieve the target of selling 100 packets of their food products per day. Previously, iD Fresh Food used to prepare a mixture of 15,000 kg of idli using 5,000 kg of rice. Today, the company has expanded exponentially, selling four times the amount of mixture across numerous food stores and metropolitan cities.

Rise Of ID Fresh Food

Musthafa PC, hailed as the breakfast king of the nation, witnessed remarkable growth in the company's annual turnover. In the year 2015-2016, the turnover stood at approximately Rs 100 crore, which further escalated to Rs 182 crore in 2017-2018. By the end of FY21, iD Fresh Food recorded a revenue of Rs 294 crore, contributing to its current valuation of Rs 2000 crore.

However, Musthafa's relentless pursuit of quality, affordability, and convenience struck a chord with consumers. With a commitment to using high-quality ingredients and traditional recipes, ID Fresh Food gained popularity and expanded its product range to include a variety of food items.

Today, ID Fresh Food is a recognized brand across India and has a strong presence in international markets as well. Musthafa's success story showcases the transformative power of determination, innovation, and a relentless focus on delivering value to customers. Today, the ID Fresh Food i

Beyond his business success, Musthafa actively supports social initiatives and has been recognized for his efforts in promoting education and entrepreneurship. His journey serves as an inspiration to aspiring entrepreneurs, highlighting that with perseverance and a strong sense of purpose, one can overcome challenges and achieve remarkable success.
New Delhi: Congress leader P Chidambaram on Sunday took a swipe at Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma over his remarks that the situation in Manipur will improve within 7 to 10 days, saying it would help if the BJP leader does not "poke his nose" into Manipur's conflict and stayed away. The former home minister also asserted that it would help if Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh resigned as the CM and President's Rule was imposed in the northeastern state for a few months.

Sarma on Saturday said the situation in neighbouring Manipur will improve within 7-10 days, with the state and central governments working "silently" to restore peace.

He had hit out at the Congress and alleged that the opposition party is showing its concern when "relative peace has come in the northeastern state".

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More than 100 people have lost their lives in the ethnic violence between Meitei and Kuki communities in Manipur since clashes first started on May 3.

In a tweet, Chidambaram said, "CM, Assam has promised that peace will return to Manipur in a week. It will help if CM, Assam did not poke his nose into Manipur's conflict and stayed away."

"It will also help if Mr Biren Singh resigned as CM and President's Rule was imposed for a few months," Chidambaram said.

CM, Assam has promised that peace will return to Manipur in a week.



It will help if CM, Assam did not poke his nose into Manipur's conflict and stayed away



It will also help if Mr Biren Singh resigned as CM and President's Rule was imposed for a few months. July 2, 2023

Speaking to reporters on the sidelines of a programme in Dibrugarh on Saturday, Sarma, the convenor of the BJP-led North East Democratic Alliance (NEDA), said, "The situation in Manipur is improving day by day. I am of the view that in the next one week to 10 days, there will be more improvement."

Sarma claimed there has been "a lot of improvement" in Manipur in the last month.
Khammam (Telangana): Launching a scathing attack on Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrashekar Rao, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Sunday said his remote control was with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and described the state's ruling party as "BJP's B-Team" and its new nomenclature, BRS, as 'BJP Rishtedar Samithi'. Gandhi alleged that the corruption charges against Rao and his party's leaders have made them subservient to the BJP, and asserted that he told all other opposition leaders that the Congress would not join any bloc where the BRS (Bharat Rashtra Samithi) was involved.

Addressing a public meeting here, Gandhi said, "BRS is like BJP Rishtedar Samiti. KCR thinks he is a king and Telangana is his kingdom."

Gandhi said the Congress has always stood against the BJP in Parliament, but Rao's party has been "BJP's B-team". "Prime Minister Narendra Modi carries the remote control of Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrashekar Rao," the former Congress chief said.



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He said the Congress recently fought the assembly election in Karnataka against "a corrupt and anti-poor government and we defeated them with the support of the poor, OBCs, minorities and oppressed in the state".

"Something similar is going to happen in Telangana. On one side there would be rich and powerful of the state and on the other side, there would be poor, tribals, minorities, farmers and small shopkeepers with us. What has happened in Karnataka, would be repeated in Telangana," Gandhi said.

The Congress leader said earlier it was said that there was a three-way fight between the TRS (Telangana Rashtra Samithi which is now BRS), the Congress and the BJP in Telangana.

"But the BJP does not exist at all in Telangana. Their all four tyres have got punctured. Now it is a fight between Congress and B-Team of BJP," he said.

Referring to the recent attempts to unite the opposition against the BJP for the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, Gandhi said, "We told other opposition leaders if TRS attends the meeting, Congress will not attend it, Congress can't share stage with TRS."

Over a dozen opposition parties recently met in Patna, Bihar, to put up a united front against the BJP and will be meeting again in Bengaluru soon. The BRS and a few other non-BJP parties are not part of this grouping.

Gandhi also described Congress workers as 'babbar sher' (lions) and "backbone" of the party. "With your support, we can defeat the BRS like we did in Karnataka," he told party workers.

"We got a huge support from here (Telangana) during the Bharat Jodo Yatra and I want to thank you all for that," he said.

"During the yatra, we talked about uniting the country. On one hand, we follow an ideology to unite the country and there is another side that is trying to break the country," the Congress leader said.

"The entire country supported the yatra and said they wouldn't allow hatred in this country. Khammam has always supported the Congress as it believes in our ideology. I welcome the leaders who have decided to join the Congress today. But most importantly, I want to thank the workers of the party, who are like our lions (babbar sher)," he said.

The BRS "attacked you all but none of you were scared", he told the party workers.
New Delhi: Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) supremo Sharad Pawar on Sunday said a decision has to be taken on those who violated the party line and joined the Eknath Shinde government, indicating that action would be taken against his nephew Ajit Pawar and eight other party leaders who became part of the ruling Maharashtra dispensation. Addressing a press conference in Pune, Sharad Pawar said he would not fight over anyone saying anything by taking the NCP's name, but would go to people instead.

"Those who violated the party line and took oath, a decision has to be taken on them," he said and added that some party leaders were 'nervous' about probes by the Enforcement Directorate.

"Today's episode (on his party MLAs joining the Shinde government) may be new for others, but not for me," Pawar said.



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The veteran politician said that he was not bothered that people have left, but he was 'worried' about their future.

Pawar also said that recently Prime Minister Narendra Modi levelled allegations against the NCP saying that the party indulged in corruption.

"I am happy today that he gave cabinet berths to some colleagues from the NCP. It shows that the allegations against corruption were not factual. He has exonerated the party and all those against whom he had levelled allegations and I am thankful to the PM for this," he added.

In a surprising move on Sunday, Ajit Pawar took oath as the deputy chief minister, while eight other NCP MLAs took oath as ministers in the government led by the Shiv Sena and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Those who were sworn in as ministers are Chhagan Bhujbal, Dilip Walse Patil, Hasan Mushrif, Dhananjay Munde, Aditi Tatkare, Dharmarao Atram, Anil Patil and Sanjay Bansode.

Joined Shinde govt for country's development: Ajit Pawar

After taking the oath as the deputy chief minister of Maharashtra, NCP leader Ajit Pawar said 'his party' decided to become part of the Eknath Shinde government for the development of the country. While praising Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership, he maintained that there was no split in the Nationalist Congress Party and said they would contest all the future elections on the NCP's name and symbol.

All the elected representatives (of the party) have supported the decision to join the government, Sharad Pawar's nephew said.

Defending his decision to share power with the BJP, he said, "If we can go with the Shiv Sena, then we can go with the BJP as well. The same thing happened in Nagaland as well."

"Overall and comprehensive development was taken into account. We have a vast experience of the administration, we can utilise it for the good," he added.
In a courtroom revelation that has sent shockwaves through the community, Maher Maaroufe, a 23-year-old Tunisian man, has pleaded guilty to the murder of Indian-origin student Sabita Thanwani at her university accommodation in the Clerkenwell area of north London. The distressing incident, which unfolded on March 19 last year, has since revealed the disturbing details of their relationship and the tragic outcome that followed. As Maaroufe prepares to face sentencing in September, the family of the beloved victim mourns the loss of a young life filled with warmth and compassion.

Startling Confession in Court

During a hearing at the Old Bailey court on Friday, Maher Maaroufe stunned the courtroom by admitting his guilt in the killing of 19-year-old Sabita Thanwani. The tragic incident took place within the confines of her university accommodation, shattering the illusion of safety within the Clerkenwell area.



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Relationship Revealed as Court Hears Disturbing Details

Court reports unveiled the previously unknown connection between Maaroufe and Thanwani. The prosecution revealed that the two had been in a relationship prior to the fateful morning of the killing. It was within the walls of the student accommodation that the harrowing event unfolded, with a neighbor alerting emergency services after hearing unsettling noises and screams emanating from the room.

Desperate Manhunt Ensues as Suspect Flees the Scene

As authorities rushed to the scene, the suspect managed to evade capture, leaving the building before the police arrived. However, he was not able to escape unnoticed, as officers spotted him wearing a balaclava as he fled. The Metropolitan Police launched an urgent manhunt to bring Maher Maaroufe to justice, eventually apprehending and charging him several days later.

High-Security Psychiatric Hospital Hosts Suspect's Hearing

This week's hearing took place with Maher Maaroufe appearing via video link from the high-security psychiatric hospital, Broadmoor. The court accepted his plea of manslaughter by reason of diminished responsibility, shedding light on the state of his mental health during the tragic incident. The suspect, assisted by an Arabic interpreter, was remanded back into custody as he awaits sentencing.

Manslaughter Plea Accepted by Prosecution

The prosecution, upon considering the evidence and the circumstances surrounding the case, accepted Maher Maaroufe's plea of manslaughter by reason of diminished responsibility. The acceptance of this plea marks a significant development in the legal proceedings, which will ultimately determine the extent of Maaroufe's culpability and the subsequent sentence he will receive.

Additional Charge of Assault on Police Officer Acknowledged

During his arrest last year, Maher Maaroufe exhibited violent behavior by head-butting

a police officer. As a result, he faced an additional charge of assault by beating an emergency worker. In court, Maaroufe pleaded guilty to this charge, further emphasizing the disturbing nature of his actions surrounding the tragic killing of Sabita Thanwani.

Victim Remembered as a Caring and Loving Individual

Sabita Thanwani's family released a heartfelt statement following her untimely death, describing her as "our angel" with a "radiant smile and incredible heart." The statement highlighted her caring nature and her dedication to helping others. The loss of such a bright and compassionate individual has left a void within her family and the wider community.

Sentencing Set for September as Family Seeks Justice

The court has scheduled Maher Maaroufe's sentencing for September, where the full extent of the legal consequences he will face will be determined. As the process unfolds, Sabita Thanwani's family, driven by their pursuit of justice, eagerly awaits the court's decision, hopeful that the punishment will reflect the gravity of their loss.

A Life Cut Short: Sabita's Dreams of Spreading Kindness End Tragically

Sabita Thanwani, a promising 19-year-old student studying psychology at City University, had dedicated herself to a life of compassion and spreading kindness. Her dreams were abruptly shattered, leaving behind a profound sense of grief and loss. The community mourns the tragic end of a radiant young soul whose presence had the power to warm hearts and touch lives.

Community Shocked by Loss of "Radiant" Indian-Origin Student

The shocking news of Sabita Thanwani's murder has sent shockwaves throughout the community. Friends, classmates, and acquaintances are grappling with the sudden loss of a vibrant and caring individual whose presence left an indelible impact. The tragedy serves as a grim reminder of the fragility of life and the need for vigilance in ensuring the safety of those around us.
New Delhi: Lebanese-born model Jad Hadids participation in Bigg Boss OTT 2 has indeed created quite a buzz in the media. In this week's 'Weekend Ka Vaar,' Salman Khan schooled Jad for his disrespectful behaviour in the house, the latter apologised to all for it. Born in 1986, he is one of the richest models in Lebanon, here's all you need to know about him.

Who is Jad Hadid?

The 37-year-old actor, born in Beruit, Lebanon belongs to the Arab ethnicity, and presently he resides in Dubai, UAE. He was abandoned by his parents at the age of 3. He revealed it all at Bigg Boss OTT 2, said that he ate garbage and leftovers at a nearby restaurant. When he was seven years old, an orphanage took him, and he spent the rest of his childhood days there. Soon after he turned 11, he was discovered by individuals who helped him make his debut in the modeling industry.

After that, Jad got featured in various commercials, and later on, he became one of the biggest names in the modeling industry in the Middle East.

Jad Hadid's Daughter

Mohammed Hassan was unfortunate in terms of family but he always had faith to have one someday. He has a 4-year-old daughter named Cattleya Hadid with his ex-wife, Ramona Khalil.

Jad Hadid's Education

Due to living in an orphanage in his childhood Jad did not get a chance to go to school. He once stated that he used to go to the library and read books to build his knowledge. Later, he gained a degree in International Marketing.

Jad Hadid Career

Jad Hadids career started when he was only 13 years old. Jad was scouted out on the street by a fast-food restaurant chain that wanted to feature him in a television commercial. He also played an important role in the drama 'Out Loud.'

Bigg Boss OTT 2

The second season of one of the most popular television shows, Bigg Boss OTT, is currently being broadcast on JioCinemas; the first episode of the new season debuted on June 17, 2023. This season, Bollywood superstar Salman Khan made his debut as a host as the last season had Karan Johar.
The Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) has denied claims that the catering body will be serving only vegetarian food items in Bihar during the month of 'Sawan'. Earlier, various media reports suggested that IRCTC, in Bihar's Bhagalpur, announced that it will serve only vegetarian food items during the month of 'Sawan'. The Indian Railways would stop providing non-vegetarian food from July 4, a report on ANI stated. In the Hindu calendar, 'Sawan', also known as 'Shravan, is the fifth month of the Hindu lunar calendar and one of the holiest months of the year.

Every Monday during this period is regarded as a highly auspicious time to fast and seek the blessings of Lord Shiva. However, in a Twitter post, IRCTC denied such claims, stating that no such instructions have been given. "No such instructions have been issued by IRCTC. All approved items are available for sale to passengers from the food unit," wrote IRCTC in a Twitter post.

No such instructions have been issued by IRCTC. All approved items are available for sale to passengers from the food unit.  IRCTC (@IRCTCofficial) July 2, 2023

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The ANI report quoted Pankaj Kumar, Manager of a food service stall saying, "In the month of Sawan, food will be served without onion and garlic. Fruits will also be given. This arrangement will be applicable throughout Sawan. Non-vegetarian food will be stopped from July 4. Cleanliness will be taken care of."

This year, the Shravan period stretches for two months instead of the usual one-month period. Previously, an almost two-month-long Shravan period was observed approximately 19 years ago. July 10 marks the first fasting Monday of the period this year, while August 28 marks the last Monday fast of the period.

Instances like these have occurred previously as well, when the non-veg was stopped from selling on trains due to a festival.
New Delhi: A written complaint was lodged against the director and actors of the film 'Carry on Jatta 3' at the Jalandhar police station by the president of the Youth committee president of Shiv Sena Hind, Ishant Sharma and the Chairman of Punjab Shiv Sena (Taksali) Sunil Kumar Bunty.

Chairman of Punjab Shiv Sena (Taksali), Sunil Kumar Bunty told ANI, "We filed a complaint on behalf of Shiv Sena Hind. In the film 'Carry on Jatta 3,' which is aimed at Hindus, a Brahmin who is seen performing Havan rituals is humiliated in a scene. Gippy Grewal, Binnu Dhillon and Gurpreet Ghuggi have violated the faith of millions of Hindus by throwing water on the 'Havan Kund.' Because in Hindu religion if any ritual has to be done, then 'Havan' is performed first. He added, "So, today, we have filed a complaint against all of them and demanded that section 295 be imposed on them for hurting religious sentiments. And if an attempt is made by them to spoil the atmosphere in Punjab. For that Section 153 should be imposed."

"These individuals attempt to increase their TRP by targeting on the Hindu religion. They would have destroyed or set the theatre on fire if this had happened to another caste. Hinduism is a very soft religion. That's why we went to the government first. If they won't act within 24 hours, then the director Kang and Gurpreet Ghuggi's house is in Jalandhar only. We will be protesting outside their homes.", Sunil said.



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Youth committee president of Shiv Sena Hind, Ishant Sharma told Ani, "We saw the full film after people sent us the clip, and we came forward today. Our hearts are hurt that's why we came here to complain. If they believe this is inappropriate content, the scene is automatically deleted."

Directed by Smeep Kang, 'Carry on Jatta 3' was released on June 29.
New Delhi: Instagram's anticipated Twitter rival, rumored to be called 'Threads' (also known as the 'Barcelona project'), has recently made an appearance on the Google Play Store. Alessandro Paluzzi, a reliable tipster, shared a screenshot showcasing the app's redesigned icon. Notably, the app has not been officially released yet, as Instagram is still working on this new microblogging platform.

Paluzzi revealed that a temporary badge will allow your followers to see that you are on Barcelona and will direct them to your profile if they have the app. This feature aims to facilitate seamless connections with friends, colleagues, and, most importantly, your followers on this upcoming text-based app.

What Is The Purpose Of Threads, An Instagram App?

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Instagram is working on a secret text-based app that will compete against Twitter. Threads, according the grab, is going to be a platform where communities come together to discuss everything from the topics they care about today to whatll be trending tomorrow. If you are interested in one particular community, you can join it and interact with others. Along with that, users can follow and connect directly with their favourite creators and others who love the same things  or build a loyal following of their own to share their ideas, opinions and creativity with the world.

A Sneak Peek Into Instagram Text-Based App

A leaked image gave a sneak peek into the developing Instagrams app that will compete against the microblogging giant Twitter in the coming months.

The leaked slide appeared to have been dubbed with the codename P92 or alternatively Barcelona. According to Verge, the users will be able to sign in in the new text-based app with their Instagram username and password and your followers, handle, bio, and verification will transfer over the from the main app.

Reportedly, the user will see a feed and can make text posts up to 500 characters long with attached links, photos, and videos.
Each Fourth of July we reflect upon the significance of key national founders. They united the 13 colonies, gained independence from Great Britain, and crafted democratic institutions.

Frank Lloyd Wright (1867-1959) helped forge the material structure and spiritual framework of America, not by war, but through his creation for an unmistakably American architecture. Declared the greatest American architect of all time by the American Institute of Architects in 1991, this Fourth of July, we celebrate Wright as a founding father who searched for and molded the American character.

Born in Richland Center, and raised in rural prairie land, Wright studied civil engineering at the University of Wisconsin and apprenticed in Chicago with Louis Sullivan. In 1893, Wright started his own successful Chicago practice. In 1898, he established a studio in his Oak Park, Ill., home. In Wrights An Autobiography (Book Six, Broadacre City), he revealed his guiding design principle, A struggle against nature never appeals to me. The struggle for and with Nature thrilled me and inspired my work.

In 1909 he went to Europe for what he termed a year in exile. Wright felt stifled by predictable Victorian conventions of family and career. He began to question American values and culture trapped in Old World molds.

In late 19th and early 20th century architecture, the U.S. was in a revival of competing styles, including Gothic Revival, Italianate, Georgian Colonial, Queen Anne, Victorian, and Greek Revival. Wright added his fresh Prairie style.

Not unlike Thomas Jefferson, Wright gave a speech in 1939 at the royal institute of British Architects, titled Declaration of Independence, calling for independence from all imposition from without, from whatever sources not in touch with life; independence of classicism  new or old.

Wright described his quest for freedom and individualism through American Bard Walt Whitmans Song of the Open Road: Done with indoor complaints, libraries, querulous criticisms, Strong and content I travel the open road, The long brown path before me leading wherever I choose. Wright took Whitmans road message to heart, charting a path towards an American destiny. In his autobiography, Wright called on America to abandon nostalgia for tradition, from which the soul is gone.

To grasp Wrights American identity in architecture, appreciate his signature features: flatness, horizontality, unimpeded views, stained glass partitions, clerestory windows, cantilever structures, and interiorized nature. To be specific, three major themes epitomize Wrights vernacular American cosmovision:

1) The Prairie StyleAntithetical to stifling Victorian architecture, expressing his Wisconsin roots of leveling and vast prairies with unimpeded horizons and freedom to flow, emitting life energy. An example is Robbie House, a National Historic Landmark on the campus of the University of Chicago.

2) Organic Architecture  Rebel against imposed structure, collapsing the boundaries between indoors and out, in harmony between human establishments and the natural world. His Taliesin West in Arizonas Sonoran Desert, and Fallingwater, in Pennsylvania, express organic themes.

3) The Usonian Style: Democratic design for average families, using native materials and flat roofs. Large cantilevered overhangs for passive solar heating and natural cooling, with natural lighting through clerestory windows. Californias Hanna House and Oregons Gordon House are examples.

These designs flow into one another with local and natural materials. In Racine, Wingspread seamlessly blends and intersects Wrights various styles and designs. Published in Germany (1910), his two-volume (with 100-lithograph) Wasmuth portfolio reversed Eurocentrism. Spanish architects Parque Guell and Antoni Gaudi began using concrete forms and cantilevered arch trusses without visible pillars or beams. His final book, The Living City(1958), highlights decentralization by integrating humans into nature, not remote from it.

Like the Founding Fathers, Wright declared independence from the Old World. His American architecture embodies individualism, rootedness, vastness, indomitability, and authenticity, reflecting the land of the free. Lets embrace Wright as a later-day founding father who, hailed from Wisconsin prairies, designed American cultural character through architecture.

Lets honor him as an architect of the American spirit.
Patient Mason Snyder listens to the concluding words of a Marianjoy Rehabilitation Hospital chapel ceremony called Ritual for Loss of the Limb on Feb. 15, 2023, in Wheaton. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune)

David Gaydos thought he had already learned a lot about loss.

The retired Naperville Central High School teacher had been through much grief: the loss of his parents, multiple miscarriages with his wife, Frances, and her death in 2019 of ovarian cancer after 53 years of marriage.

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But this spring, Gaydos lost the lower half of his left leg and left foot. And he said it taught him more than he realized. At 78, he is relearning kindness and gratitude.

Gaydos arrived at Northwestern Medicines Marianjoy Rehabilitation Hospital in Wheaton this spring after an infection led to the amputation. Hed had diabetes issues that led to infections and hospital stays and another series of, Can we save the foot? as he put it. And it didnt work.

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He knew amputation was a possibility. He had been given options, he said, but following surgeries where the infection came back, another possibly failed surgery wasnt right for him.

He looked at losing the limb as saving his life. And now, he sees its absence as growth.

On May 22, he participated in a ceremony at Marianjoy called Ritual for Loss of the Limb. Created after the spiritual care team realized a need for acknowledging and processing the loss of a limb, its offered to patients as a way to grieve what was lost and enter into the new life awaiting them outside the rehabilitation centers doors.

Most such patients have just begun rehabilitation therapy; they are adjusting to a new life without the full mobility they had recently lost. People arrive here after car accidents, after surgeries following illnesses, after many life experiences that suddenly left them with a starkly different future.

The ceremony takes place in the chapel, but it can be religious or not, depending on a patients preference. A lit candle, for example, can signify the presence of God or the presence of light within dark moments, said Dr. Arnold Hoskins, a reverend at Marianjoy.

Hoskins said the ceremony can help sooth anxiety and build confidence.

The loss of a limb, in my view, is tantamount to the loss of a life because, after all, you have lost something, he said. And just as we have rituals for when people die, we have funerals, we have memorials, and it helps the mourner transition into a new life.

Marianjoy Rehabilitation Hospital chaplain Catherine Lindsay participates in a chapel ceremony called Ritual for Loss of the Limb, Feb. 15, 2023, in Wheaton. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune)

Chaplain Catherine Lindsay makes the sign of the cross with lotion from an aloe plant on the hand of patient Mason Snyder during a Northwestern Medicine Marianjoy Rehabilitation Hospital chapel ceremony in Wheaton. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune)

Marianjoy has been doing the rituals for many years but had paused them during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. The rituals were restarted in February and the center is averaging about three ceremonies per month.

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At the May 22 ceremony, Gaydos said he had always taken a lot of pride in doing things for himself, not needing help.

This experience, he said, changed that.

Neighbors had brought him food. His son helped him make the decision about his amputation. He has been humbled and honored by the people in his life showing such kindness.

He found out about the ceremony when one of the Marianjoy chaplains came in to his hospital room to talk to him about what was going on his life, and how he ended up at the facility. He described becoming a widower. Ive been in a grieving process, but Im adjusting to that, he said. I started to draw parallels to my whole body situation and separation. And I started talking to the chaplain about a movement that was taking place in me.

He began to reflect on his Catholic upbringing, engaging in prayer and sharing stories with another amputee.

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I didnt have grief for the loss of my foot, he said. (The amputation) brought me to an understanding of things being taken away  and what people do for you and what youre capable of.

At a February ceremony, patients were encouraged to give thanks for how their limbs carried them through life thus far, while thinking also about new life and new goals. Each person received a piece of a prickly aloe plant, while Marianjoy chaplain Catherine Lindsay told them, Just as this aloe plant, though wounded, still provides a healing balm, may God grant you healing as a resource for yourself and others to show kindness and to do good.

During his ceremony, Gaydos spoke about how he had been resistant to kindness because of his pride, and what he describes as a false sense of masculinity, or an idea that being a man is standing on your own two feet.

Sometimes you just have to understand you cant stand; some people can stand on two feet and cant stand emotionally because of what takes place in their lives, he said. I have spent my whole life resistant to it in an odd sense of stubbornness.

Losing a limb is a different type of challenge from other patients who arrive at Marianjoy after a stroke or recovering from COVID-19, said Dr. Noelia Donamaria, who leads the amputee program at Marianjoy.

I think the more were able to normalize the experience ... yes, this is something that happened, something thats unfortunate, but its something you can get through, she said. Patients who are able to accept it and grieve it and overcome it tend to do a lot better.  Its just a bump in the road; it doesnt need to define your whole life moving forward.

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After arriving at Marianjoy in April and finishing a month of rehab, Gaydos was ready to go home in May following dialysis and a wheelchair fitting  to start his new life, less able to stand, but more willing to open his arms.
Three men accused in a Rockland gun store burglary now face federal charges.

Robert E. Benson, 18, and Mackey K. Drake, 22, of La Crosse, and Nehemiah J. Sample, 26, of Trempealeau, were indicted Wednesday for stealing 41 firearms April 25 from a federally licensed firearms business in Rockland. Drake also faces 15 years for felon in possession of a firearm.

All three have been charged in La Crosse County Circuit Court with burglary while armed and theft.

According to a criminal complaint filed in La Crosse County, police were called shortly before 3 a.m. to The Smoking Gun in Rockland after one of the stores owners responded to a security alert. Security footage provided to police reportedly showed three unauthorized people enter the building and take firearms from the stores displays. The owners reported missing 30 to 40 handguns, four long rifles and two envelopes containing $740 and raffle tickets.

Benson and Drake were arrested in Wisconsin. Sample, who also faces charges for a gun theft in Trempealeau, was arrested in Arkansas.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Corey Stephan is handling the federal prosecution.
The vessel that keeps commerce moving on the Mississippi River docked Saturday for Riverfest.

Those barges that go up and down the river  we guarantee them a navigable channel, said U.S. Coast Guard DC Second Class Zane Ramsden, who serves on the U.S. Coast Guard cutter ship Wyaconda.

Ramsden and fellow crew members led Riverfest visitors through guided tours of Wyaconda, which travels between St. Paul, Minnesota, and Dubuque, Iowa, to monitor depth levels in the Mississippi. He said its the vessels mission is to maintain a channel at least 100 feet wide and 9 feet deep to assure uninterrupted barge traffic.

Senior Chief Carson Gillum, Wyacondas officer in charge, said La Crosse is a natural place to share the ships mission with the public.

La Crosse is awesome, Gillum said. We stop in La Crosse at least once every trip we make.

The tours led about a dozen people through the tight quarters of the ship, which was built in 1965. The ship is equipped with bunks, shower and bathroom facilities and a kitchen to accommodate a crew of 16 people on duty for shifts of 9-12 days.

If we run any longer than that, well run out of food, Ramsden said.

The Wyaconda tours are new to the 40th annual Riverfest, which began June 30 and concludes with the evening fireworks display July 4. The festival featured its usual mix of music, shows and food. Among the attractions this year are the River City Water Skiers, cornhole tournament, professional wrestling, a river vault competition, the La Crosse Fire Departments fire safety simulator, bounce houses and a car show.

I like the variety we have to offer, said Riverfest media director D.J. Olbrys.

Riverfest concludes Tuesday with the Firecracker 4-mile run, Military Appreciation Day and the fireworks display to celebrate Independence Day starting at 10 p.m.

Its going to be a good (fireworks) show, Olbrys said. They have new fireworks theyre going to try this year.
The median age rose in almost every state last year, census estimates show, continuing a long-term trend that is pushing states to prepare for aging populations.

Seventeen states had median ages over 40 in 2022, according to new U.S. Census Bureau estimates of the age at which half of residents are older and half are younger. Thats up from 12 states in 2020 and just seven in 2010.

Nationwide, the median age was below 30 until 1980, but it rose to 38.9 as of 2022, according to the bureau estimates.

That leaves more states planning for future health and housing challenges for older residents. Some states have issued or are considering executive orders, agency plans and legislation to assist state residents who need more help with health crises, housing and long-term care as they live longer.

Millennials started turning 40 last year, and the youngest baby boomers are quickly approaching 60.

As the nations median age creeps closer to 40, you can really see how the aging of baby boomers, and now their children  sometimes called echo boomers  is impacting the median age, said Kristie Wilder, a Census Bureau demographer, in a statement.

Lower birth rates also play a role and will likely continue to drive median age slowly but steadily higher, Wilder added. Some states have passed legislation requiring that health insurers cover fertility treatments in response to lower fertility rates, according to a University of California, Irvine study published last year. New York states 2020 law, for example, requires coverage of in vitro fertilization in some cases.

No states saw a drop from 2021 to 2022, and states with unchanged medians were Alabama, Maine, Tennessee and West Virginia, along with the District of Columbia. The largest increase in median age in recent years was in Delaware, where it rose three years since 2010 to age 41.8.

The portion of Delaware residents over 60 will jump from a quarter to more than a third of the state population by 2040, according to a 2020 state report, creating new challenges for state services. A Delaware Journal of Public Health report published in 2021 said a growing number of Delawares older residents suffer from dementia, requiring more expensive help from the state and family caregivers.

Vermont held six public listening sessions around the state last year to help prepare recommendations this year for Age Strong Vermont, its road map for an age-friendly state.

Vermont had this older demographic for a long time, but its taken a while for the state broadly to really reckon with that, said Angela Smith-Dieng, Vermonts Adult Services Division director. Part of the challenge is that older Vermont residents tend to live in big rural houses and need help with in-home health care, renovations for mobility and transportation on demand, she said.

A New York executive order in November also calls for a statewide plan on aging.

Vermont and New York joined other states already planning comprehensive strategies for aging populations: California, Colorado, Massachusetts and Texas, according to a January report by the National Conference of State Legislatures.

Californias Master Plan for Aging, released in 2021, aims to create an age-friendly California by 2030, including housing and health care strategies. A bill currently progressing in the state legislature would create a statewide system of respite providers by 2025 to help give primary caregivers of older adults enrolled in Medi-Cal, the state's Medicaid program for low-income residents, a break.

Elsewhere, an Oregon bill to study long-term care needs for older residents has passed both chambers of the Legislature.

Only North Dakota is younger now than it was in 2010, down 1.2 years from age 37 to 35.8. The states burgeoning oil industry has drawn younger workers to jobs that pay well and dont require four-year college degrees.

Energy counties in other states have seen similar influxes of young people. Loving County, Texas, for example, saw its median age decrease from 52.7 in 2010 to 35.3 in 2022, a difference of more than 17 years.

Skeet Lee Jones, county judge there, said the tiny county has work camps for more than 1,000 oil workers and hundreds more young workers living in recreational vehicle camps, with good-paying jobs that create their own challenges for county government.

Weve had to start paying our own county workers what we call oil-field wages just to get things done, about four or five times minimum wage, Jones said.

The oldest state in the country remains Maine at 44.8. It also was the oldest in 2010, at 42.7.

Other states with median ages at 40 or above in 2022:

New Hampshire (43.3)

Vermont (43.2)

West Virginia (42.8)

Florida (42.7)

Delaware (41.8)

Pennsylvania and Connecticut (40.9)

Hawaii (40.7)

Rhode Island (40.6)

Wisconsin (40.4)

New Jersey, Oregon and South Carolina (all 40.3)

Montana and Michigan (40.2)

Massachusetts (40.1)

The youngest states and the only ones with median ages below 37 were Utah (31.9), the District of Columbia (34.8), Texas (35.5), and Alaska and North Dakota (35.8).

On the county level, the median age in 2022 was as low as 20.9 in Madison County, Idaho, home of Brigham Young University-Idaho, where many young students are also starting families.

The median age was as high as 68.1 in Sumter County, Florida, part of the sprawling The Villages retirement community. In 2010 Sumter Countys median age was 62.7, the only county with a median age of 60 or higher in the nation at the time.

In 2022 there were six others: Catron County, New Mexico (62.1); Jeff Davis County, Texas (61.7); Harding County, New Mexico (60.5); Jefferson County, Washington (60.4); Charlotte County, Florida (60.2); and Highland County, Virginia (60).
The Walworth County Register of Deeds recently became aware of potentially fraudulent home warranty solicitations sent to some Walworth County residents by first-class mail.

The unsolicited advertisements request an immediate response to County Deed Records and appear to be official correspondence from the Walworth County Register of Deeds. The letters may also include the name of the residents mortgage lender and a photo of the residents home.

These letters were not sent by the Walworth County Register of Deeds office, and the Register of Deeds will never send home warranty solicitations or notices, Walworth County Register of Deeds Michele Jacobs said in a press release. Please do not respond to these notices, and exercise caution with any unsolicited mail you receive. We also ask that you check with older loved ones, friends, and neighbors, as they are particularly susceptible to scams like this.

Residents with questions or concerns regarding this mailing are asked to please contact the Walworth County Register of Deeds office at 262-741-4233.

The Walworth County Register of Deeds launched a new Land Notification Alerts service in February 2023.

This free service is available to all Walworth County property owners.

The Land Notification Alerts system alerts property owners when documents are recorded against their personal name or business.

Each time an alert is triggered, an email is sent providing an update on any activity. Property owners are contacted only when a record with the name they registered is recorded on an official document.

To sign up for the free Land Notification Alerts service, visit www.co.walworth.wi.us/228/Register-of-Deeds.
We are happy to share that we have successfully matched the Carolyn J. Gable $25,000 Matching Grant. We are working hard to provide much needed poverty relief to many fellow creations in need. Every day we are answering letters, emails and phone calls as we research each request and work out a plan to ease the pains of poverty. We cannot wait to share with Carolyn Gable and all of you how every penny of your donations was used to provide a helping hand up to our neighbors in need.

Dear W.C.,

My mother and I desperately need your help. I am my elderly mothers caregiver, and we were living with my boyfriend for the past three years. We were never married as I am older and have already been through a bad divorce years ago, so I did not think getting married was necessary. It turns out I was wrong as my boyfriend up and left us with the rent and utilities unpaid. I had no idea he was that far behind in paying the bills as we were splitting the bills and I paid my boyfriend our portion because they were all in his name. The landlord has been sympathetic and has a smaller rental we can move into that would be more affordable, but he needs me to still pay our one-month overdue rent and a security deposit for the new apartment. We have nowhere else to go so this would solve a lot of our worries. I do not have the money to pay these bills because I had already given the money to my boyfriend thinking he would pay the bills. Not only am I hurt, angry and afraid, I feel stupid to have allowed my mother and I to end up in this situation. I will never trust anyone to pay my bills again in the future. It was a terrible lesson to learn.

Dear Readers,

I decided to pay a visit to this woman and her mother. I had a feeling there could be more to their story.

When I arrived at the apartment I was met by an elderly woman and her daughter. The resemblance was remarkable between the two women. They were walking outdoors as the elderly woman cautiously pushed a walker.

I introduced myself to both women and we slowly walked together into the apartment building. They had a first-floor apartment that was just down the hall from the soon to be available smaller apartment they hoped to be able to move into. The daughter pointed it out to me as we walked past.

When we arrived at the apartment the daughter helped her mother remove her jacket and into a chair. Only when the mother was comfortable did we finally sit to talk together.

After learning more about her situation and having a look around the apartment, I could see the boyfriend had not left much behind. He had moved out while the daughter was at the doctor with her mother, taking a lot of the furniture, some of the mothers prized keepsakes and even the little cash she had in her dresser drawer. The daughter cried tears of embarrassment and pain as she said, I just did not see this coming. I know he likes to gamble but I thought we had a good relationship. How could I be so wrong about him.

We made a new budget for the two women and were relieved to see they would be able to afford the lower rent in the smaller apartment. They would not be able to pay off the overdue rent and utilities or pay for food for the next few weeks without our help. If the daughter had not turned to The Time is Now to Help for assistance, they would have most likely been evicted and gone hungry. Again, the daughter shared her shame over trusting a man that had left them in poverty without even caring about her elderly mother.

After speaking with the women, I called the landlord. I was happy he was willing to forgo a new security deposit for the smaller apartment if the women were able to pay two months of rent upfront. We provided this for them and paid their overdue utilities so she could get the new utility account open in her name. We also provided gift cards for food and toiletries to get them through this difficult month. This brought an audible sigh of relief and tears from both women when I shared the news of how we would help.

Now that the two women have moved into the smaller apartment, and they are strictly following their new budget, the daughter has been able to let go of the past. She let go of the shame and betrayal she felt when we first met. She has replaced those feelings with a necessary caution that will help to keep them safe going forward.

As we continue to provide assistance, thanks to the Carolyn J. Gable $25,000 Matching Grant and all of your matching donations, we thank you and God Bless you for making our good works possible.

Health & Happiness, Love & GOD Bless Everyone, Sal

Please Help: There are many coming to us in desperation. Our good fellow creations need our compassion. Together we make a big difference. Make checks payable to: The Time Is Now to Help, P.O. Box 1, Lake Geneva, WI 53147. The Time Is Now to Help is a federally recognized 5013 charitable organization. You will receive a tax deductible, itemized thank you receipt showing how 100% of your donation was used for providing poverty relief. Please visit our website for more information, to read more of our past and current columns and/or to make a donation: www.timeisnowtohelp.org.

A Very Special Thank You: Carolyn J. Gable Foundation, Kunes Family Foundation, The Clarence W. and Marilyn Schawk Donor Fund, Love Titos/Titos Handmade Vodka/Lake Geneva Restaurant Week, Rita OBrien, Lake Geneva Area Realty, Thomas Getzen, Paper Dolls, Mr. and Mrs. Robert Schuberth, Kunes Country Auto Group, Martin Group, John Stensland and family, Paul Ziegler, Ziegler Charitable Foundation, Albert Burnell, The Premium Package, Michelle Barton, Kelleher Family, LLC, Michael and Kathe Beach, First Baptist Church, Church of Jesus Christ LDS, Duane and June DeYoung, Roland and Diane Marie Schroeder, William and Jean Isaacson, Dennis and Carol Gilhooley, Stanley Roelker, Lois Crubaugh, Charles and Kathleen Heinz, George and Sandra Murphy, Joan Marabito Rietz, Nancy Ferguson, Robert and Vienna Pasche, Leslie Marcello, Ronald Szatkowski, all of our anonymous donors and ALL of you who support The Time Is Now to Help donation boxes. Anyone who would like a Time Is Now donation box in your business, please call (262) 249-7000. Honoraries: Nancy Thelen and Thelen Total Construction in honor of Jeri Lutzs Birthday. Memorials: David and Terri Kropetz in memory of Agnes Prescott.

Prayer Chain: The power of prayer and positive thoughts comes from the true healer, our Lord answering our prayers. Please pray for healing for the following people: Brian, Mike, Sylvia, Megan, Kayla, Maria C., Deda Lee, Betty, Scott, Annie, Marilyn, Brandon, Helen, Dennis, Mary, Joseph, Jordan, Jean, Tom L., Dr. Peter, Alyce, Matthew, Pam E., Jenene B., John S., Patricia H., Darlene, Ron K., Marian K., Judy, Wendy, Eric, Anthony, Mary, Charlie, Tom P., Christina, Billy, Mike, Cheryl, Bryan E., and Ellie.
State Rep. Bob Morgan stands in the 600 block of Central Avenue at Port Clinton Square shopping area, June 29, 2023, in Highland Park. It is the location Morgan rushed to from two blocks away to help gunshot victims and traumatized residents during a mass shooting at the Fourth of July parade in 2022. He pushed for legislation that led to the state's ban on assault weapons and high-capacity magazines. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune)

In the immediate aftermath of last years mass shooting at Highland Parks Fourth of July parade came the expected questions when such a tragedy unfolds: Who was the gunman? Where had his weapon come from?

And in Illinois, a state run by gun control-minded Democrats, could laws be bolstered and were police using them as effectively as possible?

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Experts have suggested what was on the books  if properly understood and implemented  potentially could have prevented the alleged shooter from obtaining the high-powered semi-automatic rifle used to rain bullets down on paradegoers, killing seven and wounding dozens more.

Ensuing efforts centered on so-called red flag gun laws and other measures designed to take away firearms from those whose backgrounds suggest they should not have access to them. And a Tribune analysis of available state data shows that the push by politicians, advocates and police leaders to use them more often seems to have had an effect in the year since the mass shooting, including significant spikes in the use of the red flag laws and formal warnings to Illinois State Police about people who should not own firearms.

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In a period running from approximately the date of the shooting through May 31, state police received more than 11,800 so-called clear and present danger reports, notifying them that someone might be too dangerous to be granted a gun license. That is more than double the number received during the same period the prior year, state data shows.

The use of a separate tool, the firearms restraining order, the form for the states red flag law, has also jumped since the Highland Park attack.

The orders, which judges can use to take guns away from people they consider a threat, were granted 228 times in the 3  years from the laws inception in January 2019 through early August 2022. Just from then until May, there have been another 146 granted, nearly tripling the rate of usage based on a monthly average.

Additionally, changes to the firearms restraining order law were incorporated this year in a sweeping measure from the Democratic-controlled state legislature  currently entangled in state and federal legal challenges  that bans more than 100 high-powered guns, including the type used in the shooting, and ammunition magazines with the capacity of holding more than 10 rounds in long guns and 15 in handguns.

Increases in the use of state law can be attributed to heightened awareness, Illinois State Police Director Brendan Kelly told the Tribune in a recent interview.

The awareness is growing, and that is where the thrust of our effort has to be. Its simply making people aware that they have this option, Kelly said. And then, as we do that, eliminating any barriers or challenges that may be there from a technical standpoint or a legal standpoint to simplifying the process.

Still, gaps in the available data remain. Theres no data available from the courts that show the number of firearms restraining orders that are requested but denied by a judge, leaving an incomplete picture of whether more have been requested after Highland Park or if judges have been more likely to grant them.

At the same time, lawmakers still need to consider a series of recommendations from a state police-led panel assembled prior to the Highland Park shooting to find ways to further strengthen the law. Illinois also still lags behind other states in its use of firearms restraining orders despite the efforts by law enforcement officials, legislators and others.

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The events of Highland Park raised the firearms restraining orders profile significantly across the state, Kelly said, speaking for Illinois. While its not clear that the red flag laws we have here would have definitely prevented that circumstance, it did catalyze and ignite a lot of conversation among law enforcement, mental health professionals, school administrators, and other stakeholders about why or why not these tools are being used on a daily basis.

Although distinct, firearms restraining orders and clear and present danger reports have generally the same purpose. Firearm restraining orders, however, must be granted by a judge and can only be requested by law enforcement or certain people close to the subject in question. Clear and present danger reports can be filed by other individuals, including school administrators and mental health professionals, and can be used by state police in determining whether to revoke someones firearm owners identification card or deny a FOID card application.

State police changed the way the latter are handled in direct response to gaps exposed by the particulars of the case of Robert Crimo III, the alleged Highland Park gunman who awaits trial on murder charges.

His father, Robert Crimo Jr., also awaits trial on felony reckless conduct charges for helping his son acquire a FOID card more than two years before the shooting, despite reports to police that the son tried to kill himself and threatened to kill others, according to authorities.

The younger Crimo was able to obtain a FOID card just months after Highland Park police in September 2019 filed a clear and present danger report. That was because the report wasnt retained after it was determined he didnt have a firearm permit at the time or a pending application for one, state police have said.

Robert E. Crimo III, leaves after his third hearing in Lake County court, May 9, 2023, in Waukegan. Crimo III is accused of killing seven people and wounding dozens more in a shooting at an Independence Day parade in Highland Park. (Nam Y. Huh/AP)

After the July 4 shooting, the state police codified in its administrative rules the agencys ability to retain clear and present danger reports even if the subject doesnt have a FOID card or a pending application on file and isnt deemed to be an imminent threat. The agency would be able to use such reports in evaluating future FOID card applications.

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According to the state police, as a result of the rule changes, it retained 6,413 clear and present danger reports that previously could have had to be discarded out of a total of 11,812 reports filed from July 1, 2022 through May 31. Those 6,413 reports represented instances where the subject did not have a FOID card or pending application.

Those 11,812 reports also resulted in 5,181 FOID cards being revoked or applications being denied, more than double the 2,378 revocations and denials during the same period the previous year.

The Illinois Criminal Justice Information Authority, a state agency focused on research and analysis, told the Tribune they do not have data showing how many firearm restraining order petitions were filed overall. The Administrative Office of the Illinois Courts also does not have that information. Cook County Chief Judge Timothy Evans office approved the Tribunes request to receive local FRO data, but that data was not made available before press time.

Kelly acknowledged the gap, saying even his agency cant track the number of total firearm restraining order requests because it only learns of the orders once judges have signed off.

If theres a mechanism to be developed that would show that, I think that could reveal what are the fact patterns that result in a firearms restraining order being denied? he said. What does the court see that says, Hey, this may not be enough or this does meet the burden of proof?

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Its a relevant question, added Kelly, due to the higher burden of proof for a firearms restraining order compared to a clear and present danger report.

Prosecutors do not directly request firearm restraining orders; that must be done by police, a relative or someone else close to the subject. But state law allows prosecutors to assist in filing petitions, and some states attorneys offices in Illinois have integrated themselves into the process.

DuPage County has had 95 firearm restraining orders granted since the law took effect in 2019. Thats more than any other county in Illinois. Cook County had the second most petitions filed with 64, followed by Lake County with 49 and Kane County with 17, according to state police data.

Republican DuPage County States Attorney Robert Berlin credits the countys high number of petitions to an aggressive push for training and awareness among prosecutors and police.

We have direct contact with the police on these matters. And we want to make sure that theyre done correctly, Berlin said.

In Lake County, home to Highland Park, the prosecutors office has hosted training sessions for local law enforcement and other interested parties on firearms restraining orders in response to the July Fourth shooting. The most recent session, in late June, had more than 60 participants.

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Law enforcement officers and others listen as Elizabeth Leahy, of the Firearms Safety Council, conducts a training seminar on June 26, 2023, at College of Lake County in Grayslake on the state's firearms restraining order and clear and present danger report procedures. (Brian Cassella/Chicago Tribune)

Eric Rinehart, the countys Democratic top prosecutor, agreed the spike in firearms restraining orders since the shooting could probably be attributed to increased awareness. The tragedy sparked significant public conversations about red flag laws, as well as clear and present danger notifications.

Its important that we think about all of the different ways that we can regulate who has firearms, Rinehart said. I think we are all committed to developing a multilateral approach and collaborative approach with law enforcement, with schools and with health care providers, to make sure that we are finding, identifying and then isolating individuals who should not have firearms.

Rinehart stressed that firearms restraining orders are only one way of taking guns from potentially dangerous people. Any judge presiding over a criminal case can order a defendant to turn over their weapons as a condition of being released on bond, for example.

Of the firearms restraining orders requested in Lake County, most have to do with the gun owners potential mental health issues, not a criminal case, Rinehart said. He also said his office is working to spread word about clear and present danger reports, recently sending a letter to local schools reminding administrators of their obligation to notify state police if they believe someone poses a threat.

Chicagos endemic gun violence is largely carried out by those who do not own guns legally, limiting the reach of FROs. But law enforcement in Cook County told the Tribune that FROs are still in the mix.

A spokesperson for Democratic States Attorney Kim Foxx did not make anyone available for an interview. But in answers to written questions, the office stated that Cook County assistant states attorneys assigned to the offices mental health and domestic violence units help people with emergency firearms restraining order petitions when the petitioner needs help.

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As part of the gun and magazine ban, lawmakers extended the duration of when firearms restraining orders can go into effect from six months to up to one year, with a renewal option.

Ed Sullivan, a contract lobbyist for the Illinois State Rifle Association, which is one of several gun rights entities challenging Gov. J.B. Pritzkers gun and magazine ban in court, said no one wants firearms to end up in the wrong hands. But hes concerned the firearms restraining order law could have adverse effects on legal gun owners, particularly if theyre involved in messy court disputes with ex-spouses.

We feel that the red flag law is unfortunately going in the wrong direction and can ultimately harm law-abiding citizens through false accusations, and well be tracking that to see if indeed that pans out, said Sullivan.

Colleagues applaud state Rep. Bob Morgan after the passage of a gun bill banning assault weapons and high capacity magazines Jan. 10, 2023, at the State Capitol in Springfield. (Brian Cassella/Chicago Tribune)

After the shooting, state Rep. Bob Morgan, a Deerfield Democrat who was with his family at the Highland Park parade when the first shots were fired, headed a working group of lawmakers focused on finding ways to reduce gun violence.

The result was the gun and magazine ban, which is currently awaiting rulings in separate legal challenges to the Illinois Supreme Court and 7th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals over the laws constitutionality.

Going forward, Morgan wants to review the process by which a gun owner accused in an order of protection for domestic violence would have to surrender their firearms.

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Currently, such gun owners are generally required to turn in their guns to other FOID card holders in certain court proceedings if theyre named in such a petition. But this spring, the Illinois House passed a broad firearms safety bill that included a provision that would require them to only surrender their guns to law enforcement until the matter is resolved. The measure, however, hasnt made it through the Senate.

Morgan emphasized efforts still need to be made to educate the public about the laws Illinois has in place.

The vast majority of discussions around education and implementation of the firearms restraining orders are still relatively in their infancy, Morgan said.

dpetrella@chicagotribune.com

jgorner@chicagotribune.com

mcrepeau@chicagotribune.com
A new study has found that dolphin mothers use different sounds to communicate with their young than those they use with adults.

The research suggests that the use of the special sounds is similar to the way adult humans use so-called baby talk with children.

Female bottlenose dolphins change the tone and length of their whistle when calling and communicating with their young, the study found. Male dolphins do not play a big part in raising young.

The so-called signature whistle is an important part of communication for dolphins. Researchers say changing the whistle tone permits female dolphins to signal their young that the communication is meant for them. Scientists say the signals are similar to humans calling someone by name.

The research team recorded signature whistles of 19 mother dolphins living in the Sarasota Bay area along the western coast of Florida. Microphones were repeatedly placed on the same wild dolphin mothers to capture the recordings. On average, young dolphins stay with their mothers for about three years in Sarasota Bay.

The research was carried out over a period of more than 30 years. A study describing the findings was recently published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.

Laela Sayigh is an ocean biologist with the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution in Massachusetts. She was a co-writer of the study. Sayigh told The Associated Press the animals at times use these whistles to keep track of each other.

The length and tone of the sounds changed for every one of the moms in the study, all 19 of them," said biologist and study co-writer Peter Tyack. Tyack is with the University of St. Andrews in Scotland.

Scientists do not know exactly why people, dolphins and other creatures use baby talk to communicate with their young. But they believe it may help the young learn many important sounds.

Research dating back to the 1980s suggests young human babies may pay more attention to speech with a number of different tones. For example, female rhesus monkeys may change their calls to seek and hold a young animals attention. And zebra finch birds slow their songs and use higher tones to communicate with young.

For the dolphin study, the researchers centered only on the signature call. So they do not know if the animals also use baby talk for other communication  or whether it helps their young learn to talk as it seems to do with humans.

"It would make sense if there are similar changes in bottlenose dolphins  a long lived, highly acoustic species, said Frants Jensen. He is a behavioral ecologist at Denmark's Aarhus University and also a co-writer of the study.

Another possible reason for using different tones is so the dolphin mothers can catch the attention of their young, said Georgetown University ocean biologist, Janet Mann. She was not involved in the study.

"Its really important for a (young dolphin) to know Oh, mom is talking to me now, Mann said.

Im Bryan Lynn.

The Associated Press reported this story. Bryan Lynn adapted the report for VOA Learning English.

______________________________________________________________

Words in This Story

tone  n. the quality of a sound, especially someones voice

whistle  v. to make a high sound by forcing air through a small hole in the mouth

keep track  v. follow closely

acoustic  adj. relating to sound and hearing

__________________________________________________________________

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Luckily, Amanda Meier had insured the three boxes she sent last year from her home in Verona to her condo in Florida  or so she thought.

In reality, it took eight months to get a claim paid after UPS left the boxes outdoors and she said a rainstorm destroyed their contents.

They arrived completely soaked and ruined because they were not delivered to my door or even under a protected overhang but left out in the open by our community mailboxes, Meier, 66, said in a June 19 email to SOS. The clothes bled onto each other and left permanent stains.

Meier had purchased $200 worth of UPS insurance on each box before shipping them from a Postal Connections store in Verona, she said. Postal Connections filed a claim on her behalf, and she provided photos and other documentation, she said, only to see the matter enter a time warp of waiting.

Every time we contacted UPS with our claim number they said they were working on it, she said, until in May UPS asked her to send all new pictures and documentation for the claim.

When I said I had and couldnt take new ones, they denied my claim without a reason stated, she said.

SOS emailed UPS, ccing Postal Connections, on June 19 to ask about Meiers claim and heard back that same day from Karen A. Tomaszewski Hill, of UPS Corporate Affairs division.

She said she would look into the matter and the next day, Meier got an email from Clarissa Fletcher of UPS Corporate Customer Relations asking that Meier provide the photos of the damage, the tracking numbers, and any proof value that you may have.

To which Meier responded: I already did that.

To be clear, the photos Meier submitted as part of her claim were of the boxes, soaked, that the clothes had been shipped in. Neither she nor her husband took photos of the damaged clothes themselves.

No, unfortunately I did not, she said. My husband, who was in Florida, tried to wash the color bleed out of them, so they were hanging all over the place drying. ... There were no pictures of the clothing for me to send before he had them washed, thrown out or put away.

This may well have been the reason UPS initially denied the claim, as Fletcher in her response to Meier on June 21 said the company had changed its mind and, as a one-time courtesy, would send her a check for $600, even though per UPS Terms and Conditions, all claims are finalized with the shipper of record, in this case Postal Connections.

Meanwhile, in a statement, Postal Connections said that it works diligently to ensure that customers receive exceptional shipping services and that it is rare and unfortunate for a shipping problem to result in a formal claim, but that in the event of damage to a shipment, the recipient should keep all packing materials, boxes, and broken items for inspection by the shipper, take photos, and immediately notify the shipping agency for assistance in filing a claim (emphasis added).

Hill declined to comment on the particulars of Meiers claim, and Postal Connections deferred to UPS.

Meier said she received the $600 check on Tuesday.

Send us an SOS Since September 2007, SOS has helped save Wisconsin State Journal readers more than $227,843.66 and solved hundreds of problems. You can send an SOS using any of these methods: Email: sos@madison.com Online form: http://go.madison.com/sendSOS Phone: 608-252-6198 Mail: SOS, Wisconsin State Journal, P.O. Box 8058, Madison, WI 53708
For much of its early history, the Declaration of Independence languished in semi-obscurity after it was adopted by the Continental Congress on July 4, 1776. Waging a war against an empire, setting up a sovereign government and then framing a workable constitution were more immediate concerns. Decades passed before celebrations or parades.

In fact, for the next 70 years, no state entering the union would invoke its lofty political principles of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. Not until the territory of Wisconsin achieved statehood in 1848 did any state think it meaningful to quote the Declaration of Independence in its state constitution.

Now in 2023, 175 years after Wisconsin became a state, its worthwhile pausing to examine why Wisconsins constitution of 1848 begins by declaring that citizens have certain inherent rights, among these are life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. Its just as important to consider what this inheritance might mean for people living in Wisconsin today.

The most pressing context in 1848 for calling on the language of 1776 was that American liberty rested, economically and politically, on the cancerous foundation of slavery. So right after quoting Thomas Jeffersons stirring phrases, the 1848 constitution prohibits slavery within Wisconsins borders.

Abolitionist sentiments were gaining ground in the North. So, too, the abhorrence of slavery resonated with the thousands of Germans and Bohemians, many of whom adhered to socialist and progressive ideas, immigrating to Wisconsin in this era. But it is also worth remembering, as the Black abolitionist author and lecturer Frances Ellen Watkins Harper put it, that many Northerners simultaneously did two things  hate slavery and hate [Black people].

Heres where the story gets a bit more complicated. The 1848 constitution  the one that appealed directly to the Declaration of Independence  was preceded by a more politically and socially radical draft. That document, the proposed constitution of 1846, made provision for womens rights and Black suffrage. It also expressed distrust of big finance and would have outlawed commercial banking in the state. When this early version was put to voters, it was roundly defeated in every county in the territory except for three.

Two years later, any mention that Black people be given the right to vote or that married women be allowed to own property vanished from the 1848 draft that was eventually passed by Wisconsin voters.

What might we conclude about the omission of steps toward racial and gender equality? And was this omission in any way related to the inclusion of language about freedom and the pursuit of happiness?

The first takeaway is that the abstract language of rights can prove more palatable than specific measures to ensure equality and autonomy for others. A cynical reading would be that talk of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness provided cover for the real-world restrictions that limited voting and property ownership to white men. In a slaveholding republic, after all, such bad faith has ample precedent.

Or it could be that the devil is always in the details of policy and politics. Translating ideals to concrete action is often slow going, as the long slog of a civil war and the protracted struggles over the 13th, 14th, 15th and 19th amendments would show.

A second takeaway is that the Declaration of Independence is not always what we think it is. Nor is it the final word. If anything, it remains a work in progress. Its self-evident and immemorial truths are always subject to the contingencies and crises of the moment.

Such skepticism is neither un-American nor unpatriotic. We might treat July Fourth as an obligation to examine the impediments that continue to block peoples pursuit of happiness. No matter how we define such happiness in Wisconsin  not having our votes gerrymandered, the ability to get an education without taking on mountains of debt, the freedom to live ones chosen sexual identity, or the right for women to their own bodies  independence is worth declaring.

Finally, this brief history of the 1776 Declaration, the rejected Wisconsin constitution of 1846 and the approved state constitution of 1848 alert us to what might have been. When thinking about politics in Wisconsin, its good to think about what citizens have aspired to but not yet achieved.
In a tender moment after Wednesdays sentencing of the motorist who critically injured an Idaho State Police trooper last fall on Interstate 84, there was a time for forgiveness.

Sgt. Mike Wendler and his wife, Amy, hugged motorist Emina Hukic, each hoping for good things to come after the tragic crash on Sept. 8 turned the Wendlers world upside down.

It was cathartic for us to let go of the hurt and bitterness, Amy Wendler wrote in a message to the Times-News. Although Mike has a long way to go in the healing process, not forgiving her wont help him heal faster.

During the hugs, the Wendlers encouraged Hukic to make better decisions in the future.

For the misdemeanor charges of reckless driving and driving without privileges, Hukic, 22, will spend three days on Jerome Countys work detail, picking up trash along roadways or other such tasks.

If Hukic, 22, abides by the terms of her 12-month supervised probation, she will spend three days on Jerome Countys work detail, picking up trash along roadways or performing other similar tasks.

Her sentence, part of a plea deal, of 180 days jail time was mostly suspended, with 10 days discretionary.

Its a sentence that Amy Wendler feels is light, adding that this isnt the first time Hukic has had legal problems. Hukic shouldnt have been driving in the first place, having her drivers license suspended in January due to a DUI charge, she said.

There is nothing we can do to change the outcome but look for the blessings that could come out of it, Amy wrote on a GoFundMe page that is raising money to help with her husbands medical expenses.

She said she believes the law should be changed to include consequences for injuring someone while driving while distracted.

Since it is not, we had to work with what we could, she said.

Hukic is remorseful and has indicated shes willing to go in front of the legislature and ask for stricter consequences for distracted driving, Amy Wendler said.

Jerome city attorney BJ Hess agreed that Hukic is distraught over the suffering she caused.

Its been a tough thing for both parties, Hess said.

Amy Wendler stressed the importance of motorists knowing the dangers of distracted driving.

A lot of people, especially younger people, use cellphones while driving, she said.

A police report said Hukic was driving her 2012 Hyundai Sonata that morning to Twin Falls via I-84 to get to her job at a Twin Falls bank. Beforehand, a train was blocking traffic, prompting her to take Exit 165 instead of Exit 168 that she normally uses.

She texted her boss that shed be late for work.

Hukic told investigators that she saw emergency lights when she was just west of the 168 overpass.

Witnesses say Hukic was initially in the left-hand lane but braked and veered into the right-hand lane, where Wendler was using hand motions directing motorists.

The impact threw Wendler an estimated 15 feet into the air and back 30 feet, next to a Jerome City Fire Department truck. Firefighters rendered first aid and Wendler was airlifted to Eastern Idaho Medical Center in Idaho Falls.

Hukic eventually admitted to police that she snapped a photo of the police lights prior to the crash, reports say, and deleted it after the crash because she didnt want anyone to think that she intentionally struck the ISP trooper.

She initially told police that she looked down to look at a notification on her phone, and when she looked up, she had to take evasive action to avoid hitting a vehicle in front of her, reports say.

Hukic carried a minimal amount of auto insurance, Hukics attorney, public defender Steven McRae said during Wednesdays sentencing.

A hearing to discuss restitution will be set at a later date, court records say.

Mike Wendler received a traumatic brain injury in the crash, and although his family said his progress has been miraculous, he is not yet fully recovered.

We have a long road of healing still, his wife said. Such a long road but, that doesnt mean she (Hukic) has to continue to suffer with us. She can help us.

Your news on your smartphone Your story lives in the Magic Valley, and our new mobile app is designed to make sure you dont miss breaking news, the latest scores, the weather forecast and more. From easy navigation with the swipe of a finger to personalized content based on your preferences to customized text sizes, the Times-News app is built for you and your life. Dont have the app? Download it today from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store.
Thus spoke Lyf Malate Manilas Champion and The Suites at Torre Lorenzo Malate Residence Manager Joyce Pascual-Agsaway, when asked what makes the latest property managed by The Ascott Limited (Ascott), lyf Malate Manila and The Suites at Torre Lorenzo Malate, so special.

The 202 rooms at lyf Malate range from Studio, 2 of a Kind (One Bedroom) and All Together (Two Bedroom) to cater to young travellers and students. The modern interiors and eccentric co-sharing spaces are designed to give the guests an avenue for socials, work and creativity during their stay. These spaces consist of lounge, social kitchen, laundromat, fitness gym, swimming pool and jacuzzi.

Get ready for an amazing experience

We are thrilled to finally welcome guests in The Suites at Torre Lorenzo Malate and lyf Malate Manila, Pascual-Agsaway told the Manila Standard during the opening of Lyf Malate recently. With the help of our lyf Crew, we are now able to provide all our guests with an amazing experience.

The ribbon-cutting ceremony was led by Ascotts Country General Manager Philip Barnes; Pascual  Agsaway; Torre Lorenzo Development Corporation COO Cathy Casares  Ko; City of Manila Mayor Maria Sheilah Honrado Honey LacunaPangan; Department of Tourism Supervising Tourism Operations Officer Ivannovich Dmitri Tan Agote; and Singapores Ambassador to the Philippines Constance See Sin Yuan.

In the heart of colorful Manila

The second lyf property in the Philippines is located in Malate, Manila, close to University Belt, various shopping centres, restaurants, bars, museums and train station. For the young traveller seeking to wander in the area, proximal famous landmarks are Rizal Park, Lucky China Town, Quiapo Church, and National Museum can easily be navigated.

To book a stay, visit the official website, and follow the propertys official social media pages ( Facebook | Instagram | Tiktok )

#lyf #livelyfhere #livelyfboldly #lyfPhilippines #lyfmalatemanila #discoverasrphilippines #hotelsph #manila #manilahotels #lovethephilippines #manilastandard.net #ManilaStandardHomeAndDesign

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Workers at Canadas busiest port in Vancouver and at harbors up and down the nations west coast stopped work Saturday in a labor dispute that is likely to disrupt global freight transport.

After months of failed talks, more than 7,000 terminal cargo loaders and 49 waterfront employers in 30 ports went on strike.

Port automation, the rising cost of living and outsourcing are key issues behind the collective action led by the International Longshore and Warehouse Union.

Union leadership has not taken this decision lightly, but for the future of our workforce we had to take this step, Rob Ashton, president of the unions Canadian branch, said in a statement.

He remained positive, however, about reaching a collective agreement for the rights of (the) Working Class!

The unions last contract expired on March 31.

For its part, the BC Maritime Employers Association said it has made repeated efforts to be flexible and find compromise on key priorities without success.

We appreciate the assistance of federal mediators in supporting the parties and we remain open to any solutions that bring about a balanced agreement, said the trade group, which represents ship and port owners and terminal operators.

On Friday, the association had indicated that a possible strike would not affect cruise ships docking in Vancouver, Prince Rupert and on Vancouver Island.

Members of the BC Maritime Employers Association transport goods across Canada and to the United States, including automobiles, coal, grain and containers.

A strike would have repercussions in US and other markets that receive goods through Canada.

The Port of Vancouver alone handles some CAN$305 billion worth of goods annually, and contributes CAN$11.9 billion to the nations annual output.

All the west coast ports combined handled 16 percent of Canadas total traded goods in the year 2020, the port companies said.

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The Porter County Board of Commissioners tabled a vote on its pending venue rental policy after members debated its necessity at the entitys monthly evening meeting Monday.

The debate over the need for a policy began months ago amid public outcry over a PG-rated drag show planned for May at the Porter County Expo Center and a counter defense of the show from other residents.

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The drag show was eventually canceled, but Board of Commissioners President Jim Biggs, R-North, said a policy needed to be crafted to deal with a changing cultural landscape and suggested a policy be put in place regarding the serving of alcohol at events open to the public and admitting minors.

Porter County Attorney Scott McClure explained Monday that the mandatory rental policy provisions would have to be made part of every rental agreement if they were passed in the form of a resolution by the board. The policy draft states that patrons over the age of 21 would be required to wear a wristband while drinking alcohol at events open to the public.

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Minors age 17 and under would be required to be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Commissioner Laura Blaney, D-South, took exception to this. She gave the annual Tri-Kappa Taste of Valparaiso as an example of an event that serves alcohol that she has allowed her older teenage children to attend without her.

Theyre not drinking, she said. I dont feel like I have to go with them.

This would require you to have to go, McClure replied.

The policy, should it be adopted by resolution in the future, also requires conduct and dress appropriate for a county venue, and bans nudity, visible underwear and visible pasties. Clothing that has profanity, or promotes drugs, violence or criminal activity would also be banned under the policy. Also, profane language, fighting or acts of violence are also prohibited by those in attendance.

Music that includes profanity or offensive language would not be permitted, nor would the music noise be allowed to leave the venue. Has anyone talked to Dave Bagnall about music not leaving the property during the fair? Blaney asked, referring to the manager of the Porter County Fair. I can hear it from my house sometimes.

We can exempt the fair if we so choose, or not, said Biggs.

Private events, such as weddings, would not be subject to the policy.

Commissioners Vice President Barb Regnitz, R-Center, asked if the group would like to table the vote so the three could think about how it might affect different groups.

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As a governmental entity we have to be careful, McClure said. Were not going to be able to pick and choose the events were either going to have these rules for or not.

In other business Alaina Shook of Morgan Township asked for an update on the Malden Solar application from NextEra Energy and also a timeline for the revision of the solar ordinance. She said it was unnerving that there had been no news lately. Its kind of like that feeling when your kids are in the next room and it gets quiet, she said.

McClure explained that the plan commission would hold a meeting at a future date during which the public could ask questions regarding the solar ordinance. Regnitz said there was a goal to have it on the plan commission agenda at the end of August. Regarding the Malden Solar application McClure would only say that it was under review.

Finally, two audience members spoke of their reservations about Senate Bill 4, which the county will need to opt in or out of by Sept. 1. If the Board opts in, the county health department would receive a minimum of $1.6 million for 2024 and a minimum of $3.3 million for 2025, many times the $135,768 the county will get if it opts out.

Tim Ough, of Porter, and Debra Silvert, of Morgan Township, are concerned accepting the money will mean a trade-off of personal liberty. The board indulged Silverts lengthy presentation of her personal fact-finding into the matter.

Theres no autonomy on a local level, she said of the wording from a section of the legislation. To me, that kind of language is very threatening to local liberty.

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Shelley Jones is a freelance reporter for the Post-Tribune.
The Manila Economic and Cultural Office (MECO) welcomed Taiwans decision to extend its visa-free entry scheme for Filipinos for another year starting Aug. 1.

We thank the Taiwan government for their decision extending by another year the visa-free entry for Filipinos into their country.

Such move will definitely further enhance trade and friendly relations between our countries, MECO chair Silvestre Bello III said in a statement over the weekend.

On Friday, Taiwan announced that it is allowing all Filipinos to travel to Taiwan without a visa for a maximum of 14 days citing the purpose of tourism, business, transit, visiting relatives, and attending functions or events.

This year, Taiwan targets to attract more than 320,000 visitors from the Philippines.

We look forward to stronger exchanges in the field of labor, trade, investments, and culture with this renewed display of benevolence by Taiwan, Bello said.

Taiwan on Friday extended for another year its visa-free entry policy for the Philippines, starting from Aug. 1 to July 31, 2024.

The announcement was made by the Taiwan Ministry of Foreign Affairs as it ramps up its efforts to revive pre-pandemic tourism figures.

In this year of tourism recovery, Taiwan is targeting more than 320,000 visitors from the Philippines. I cordially invite all Filipino friends to come and join us in exploring Taiwans beauty, especially with the 14-day visa-free program, said Taipei Economic and Cultural Office (TECO) in the Philippines Representative Wallace Chow.

He highlighted the potential in strengthening tourism exchanges between Taiwan and the Philippines as he cited the rising demand for leisure travel following the pandemic.

Since Taiwan reopened its border on Oct. 13 last year, the number of its Filipino arrivals already reached 60,723 in the first quarter of 2023.

The Taiwan MOFA said it will continue to review and fine-tune its visa policies to attract more visitors while ensuring border and public security.

We will also continue to communicate with the governments of related countries to enhance visa treatment for Taiwan nationals and make their overseas travel more convenient, it said.

Filipinos were first included in the visa-free entry scheme during a nine-month trial period from November 2017 to July 2018, allowing them to stay visa-free in Taiwan for at least 14 days.

The scheme has been extended yearly since.

Travel madness expo

The Taiwan Tourism Bureau is also in Manila to lead a delegation to join the 10th Travel Madness Expo (TME) in Pasay City from June 30 to July 2, 2023.

In attracting more Filipinos to visit Taiwan, the bureau said group passengers attending the expo can also enjoy a subsidy starting at NTD5,000 while foreign independent travelers can enjoy a free one-way travel pass for the airport MRT and have a chance to win a travel prize worth NTD5,000 NTD via a lucky draw.

The Taiwan Tourism Bureau delegation for this event consists of 16 organizations and associations from city and county governments, tourism-related associations, travel agencies, hotels, and souvenir shops, with a total of 35 delegates.

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US President Joe Biden will host Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson next week to talk about transatlantic security cooperation and the war in Ukraine, the White House said Saturday.

The two leaders will review our growing security cooperation and reaffirm their view that Sweden should join NATO as soon as possible, the White House said in a statement about the Wednesday meeting.

Sweden asked to join NATO in May 2022, three months after Russia invaded Ukraine, but its membership bid, which must be ratified by all 31 member states, has been blocked by Turkey and Hungary.

Western officials had hoped to formally welcome Sweden into the bloc by the time a NATO summit is held in Lithuania on July 11-12.

But earlier this week, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan denounced Sweden for allowing a protest during which a man burned pages from the Koran, further clouding the Nordic nations chances of quickly joining the military alliance. AFP

I am delighted that President Biden is inviting us to a meeting next week, before the NATO summit in Vilnius the following week, Kristersson said in a statement. The focus of the visit will be on Swedens NATO accession.

The White House said Biden and Kristersson will also discuss our shared commitment to supporting Ukraine in the face of Russias brutal war of aggression.

They will additionally talk about transatlantic coordination on China, climate change and emerging technologies.

Western officials had hoped Erdogan would soften his position on Swedens bid to join NATO after he secured a hard-fought reelection in May.

Western allies and Stockholm have insisted that Sweden has met the terms of a deal agreed with Ankara last year.

US President Joe Biden will host Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson next week to talk about transatlantic security cooperation and the war in Ukraine, the White House said Saturday.

The two leaders will review our growing security cooperation and reaffirm their view that Sweden should join NATO as soon as possible, the White House said in a statement about the Wednesday meeting.

Sweden asked to join NATO in May 2022, three months after Russia invaded Ukraine, but its membership bid, which must be ratified by all 31 member states, has been blocked by Turkey and Hungary.

Western officials had hoped to formally welcome Sweden into the bloc by the time a NATO summit is held in Lithuania on July 11-12.

But earlier this week, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan denounced Sweden for allowing a protest during which a man burned pages from the Koran, further clouding the Nordic nations chances of quickly joining the military alliance. AFP

I am delighted that President Biden is inviting us to a meeting next week, before the NATO summit in Vilnius the following week, Kristersson said in a statement. The focus of the visit will be on Swedens NATO accession.

The White House said Biden and Kristersson will also discuss our shared commitment to supporting Ukraine in the face of Russias brutal war of aggression.

They will additionally talk about transatlantic coordination on China, climate change and emerging technologies.

Western officials had hoped Erdogan would soften his position on Swedens bid to join NATO after he secured a hard-fought reelection in May.

Western allies and Stockholm have insisted that Sweden has met the terms of a deal agreed with Ankara last year.

That accord includes a commitment to crack down on opposition Kurdish movements, such as the Kurdistan Workers Party PKK, blacklisted by Ankara which considers them terrorist groups.

Top diplomats from Turkey and Sweden will meet on Thursday, the day after Kristerssons White House visit, at NATO headquarters in Brussels for talks on Stockholms bid to join the alliance.

Turkey dropped objections to Swedens Nordic neighbor Finland joining earlier in the year and Helsinki became a NATO member in April.

Meanwhile, Hungarys parliament had been expected to vote on Swedens bid by the end of its extraordinary summer session on July 7, but did not list it as an order of business for the session. AFP

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Not far away, a witness recounted having seen a group of about 50 people set fire to a brokerage companys office

Lille, FranceA burned district office, another pelted with stones, lots of looting: in Lille, in the north of France, a game of cat and mouse played out into the wee hours of Friday morning between authorities and protesters.

As in other French cities, the metropolis of one and a half million near the Belgian border has been convulsed by at-times violent demonstrations since Tuesdays fatal police shooting of a 17-year-old named Nahel in Nanterre, near Paris.

The incident revived longstanding grievances about policing and racial profiling in Frances multi-ethnic suburbs, but some in Lille suggested the backlash had gone too far, even as they denounced the shooting.

In the district of Wazemmes, firefighters worked until after midnight to extinguish a blaze that damaged the ground floor and blackened the facade of the local district hall.

Burning a district hall is useless, said 22-year-old bus driver Sofiane, standing in front of the charred edifice as fireworks sounded in the distance.

The cop who did this did not have to do it, he said of the officer who shot Nahel, but attacking public places, what does it serve?

District councillor Brice Lauret, who had rushed to the scene, said the violence was unacceptable.

I can understand anger, but not violence, he added.

In another area, Fives, the district hall was targeted with stones, its windows broken out, according to Lille city hall, while an elementary school in the neighborhood of Moulins was badly damaged by flames.

There was also a lot of looting of shops and supermarkets, it added, saying very mobile small groups, composed of very young individuals were striking everywhere.

Today they are shooting

The city had beefed up its security presence on Thursday, deploying elite RAID units, a helicopter and police drones after violence broke out the previous night, though the measures appeared to have little deterrent effect.

The first incidents started around 9:00 p.m., in the sector of the central police station, where authorities had prohibited gatherings after calls for a rally went out on social media.

Mobile and scattered, small groups of young people set fire to trash cans and cars on a main artery. Some broke the windows of a supermarket, later emerging with bottles of soda.

RAID officers, aboard an ATV and in an armored vehicle, intervened several times, brandishing projectile launchers.

They are not showing any mercy; today they are shooting, commented one passerby who, like many interviewed by AFP, declined to identify himself.

From blaze to blaze

Tensions were also high in the nearby municipality of Roubaix, one of the poorest in France, where firefighters dashed from blaze to blaze throughout the night.

Next to a theater with broken-out windows, barricades burned as fireworks crisscrossed the sky. Near the train station, a hotel caught fire, sending its dozen or so residents fleeing into the streets.

As firefighters battled the blaze, another was already starting nearby in a large office building, residents said.

In two days, they did what the Yellow Vests did in two years, said one pedestrian, referring to the spontaneous and sometimes violent anti-government protest movement that broke out in 2018.

Not far away, a witness recounted having seen a group of about 50 people set fire to a brokerage companys office.

A social centre in the city was also set on fire, according to Amine Elbahi, who ran unsuccessfully in the area in the last legislative elections.

The police, they feel free to do anything. They killed an innocent youth, they have to stop, said one 16-year-old passerby back in Lille.

Another man in his 20s appeared to agree: Nahels death is too serious, its unjustified.

But the reaction is bad; degrading public services is useless, he added. Its our money that will fix all this. AFP

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Maintaining a rules-based international order is the only path to peace and sustainable growth as the pandemic scarred world must carefully navigate towards a complex multipolar geopolitical environment

July 12 will mark the 7th year anniversary of the landmark case in the Arbitral Ruling of the Permanent Court of Arbitration in the Hague invalidating Chinas nine-dash line claiming almost the entirety of the South China Sea and clarified our rights in the West Philippine Sea and our Exclusive Economic Zone.

That day marks a pivotal event that sparked a series of geopolitical tensions wherein the Philippines has become a central stakeholder amidst a scenario that threatens to disrupt the peace and stability of the Indo-Pacific Region.

With the 2016 Arbitral Award, the Philippines has made a historic contribution to uphold the international rules-based order and supported by the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea.

This achievement has earned the admiration and endorsement of the global community, who have rejected Chinas unjustified intrusions and claims in the Philippines exclusive economic zone and continental shelf.

Led by the late Ambassador Albert del Rosario, this great victory was achieved against great odds against the expansionist ambitions of China that to this day refuses to abide by the ruling and persists on strengthening its military projection and continues to violate our territorial rights in the West Philippine Sea.

In one of his moving speeches, Ambassador Del Rosario said, Our overwhelming victory in the Arbitral tribunal is a vindication against Chinas unlawful expansion agenda, and its outcome is now an integral part of international law.

The ruling upheld the need for a rules-based order over the waters in the South China Sea. It espoused that any claim not anchored on and supported by the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea should be denied.

The Filipino people are just as passionate when it comes to asserting the countrys rights in the West Philippine Sea as expressed in the June 2022 survey of Pulse Asia wherein approximately nine out of 10 Filipinos want the Marcos Administration to assert our rights over the West Philippine Sea as stipulated in the 2016 Permanent Court of Arbitration decision.

Moreover, 84 percent of the respondents agree that government should form alliances to defend Philippine territorial rights.

The Arbitral Ruling demonstrates how conflicts in the region should be resolved legally and peacefully.

Amidst evolving security threats in the region, it has created the impetus to uphold the arbitral tribunals ruling by strengthening multilateral cooperation and gained the support of like-minded states such as the United States, Australia, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, New Zealand, and the United Kingdom.

The Stratbase ADR Institute, committed as the prime advocates of defending Philippine sovereignty and territorial rights and sustaining the legacy of Ambassador Albert Del Rosario, will host a hybrid town hall discussion themed, The 7th Year of the Arbitral Victory: Defending the West Philippine Sea, the Indo-Pacific, and the Rules-Based Order on July 12, 2023, Wednesday, from 9:00 AM to 3:30 PM (PHT) which will be live-streamed via Zoom.

Among the esteemed dignitaries participating are ambassadors to the Philppines: Hae Kyong (HK) Yu PSM (Australian Embassy), Koshikawa Kazuhiko (Embassy of Japan), Luc Veron (Delegation of the European Union to the Philippines), Laure Beaufils (British Embassy), Shambhu Kumaran (Embassy of India).

The afternoon session will have deep discussions on Strengthening Alliances and Strategic Partnerships to Defend the Rules-Based International Order with the keynote address from MaryKay Carlson, Ambassador, US Embassy in the Philippines.

The international panel of top experts and analysts that will share their insights on the current geopolitical landscape are Col. Raymond Powell, US Air Force (Ret.) of the Gordian Knot Center for National Security Innovation, Stanford University, California; Dr. Lowell Bautista, Associate Professor, School of Law, University of Wollongong, Australia; Justice Antonio Carpio, former Senior Associate Justice, Supreme Court of the Philippines, and Dr. Raul Pangalangan, Trustee, Stratbase ADR Institute, the former Dean of the University of the Philippines College of Law and former Director of Studies, The Hague Academy of International Law.

Stratbase ADRi President Prof. Victor Andres Dindo Manhit will deliver the opening statements for the morning session on Maritime Security Cooperation in the Philippines and the Indo-Pacific.

A message from Philippine Ambassador to the US, Ambassador Jose Manuel Babe Romualdez will cap the event.

Many were gladly surprised when in his first days of assuming his office, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. promised that he will not abandon even one square inch of territory of the Republic of the Philippines to any foreign power, and never again to be subservient to any external force that directs or determines our destiny.

Newly appointed Defense Secretary Gilbert Teodoro has stated his support to strengthen external defense capabilities without sacrificing internal security and declared that our territory is our territory and UNCLOS cannot be changed by the passage of time, nor changes in administration.

The regions growth and stability are closely linked to geopolitical and geoeconomic risks and will impact on our countrys priorities not just in areas of internal and external defense but extends to digital and hard infrastructure, trade and investments, tourism, energy, manufacturing, health, governance, and the environment.

Maintaining a rules-based international order is the only path to peace and sustainable growth as the pandemic scarred world must carefully navigate towards a complex multipolar geopolitical environment.

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Secretary Frasco, who understands local government administration very well, should use her influence and power to steer LGUs to the right path insofar as tourism is concerned

Days after I filed in advance our Thursday, 29 June article on our tourism woes, the Department of Tourism unveiled its new tagline LOVE the Philippines to coincide with its 50th anniversary, having been elevated by then President Marcos Sr. to Cabinet level, with Sunshine Joe Aspiras as its first secretary.

I flew out of the country last Sunday, 25 June, and saw for myself the several problems travelers experienced at NAIA 1, from long check-in lines to long immigration lines.

Mercifully, the travel tax lines were short and quick due to an online payment system introduced during the previous administration of PRRD.

I will not compare the bedlam in our airports with the efficiency of both airport and rail transport systems in the foreign country I am in at present as I write this article.

There is no comparison.

The instant jury is out on whether LOVE is an improvement over the More Fun come-on that has endured for the last 12 years after WOW! but I prefer to wait for results.

Still, the first thing that came to mind when I learned about the DOT promo launch last week while I was in a First World country was how easy it would be to corrupt the slogan.

What is there to LOVE in the Philippines, a tourist is likely to ask, after the hassle at the airport, then being overcharged by taxi drivers just to endure hours of traffic, then made to pay exorbitant hotel rates compared to most Southeast Asian countries, later having his domestic flights to popular destinations canceled or delayed.

And no amount of smiling hospitable (a trait that is no longer as true as before) Filipinos could likely compensate for all the hassles. It aint lovable as it is now.

My foreigner friend also observed that LOVE, although universally a feel good message, is no different from I love NY where the love is drawn as a heart, which has been copied by so many cities all over the world, ours included.

Still and all, we hope that Secretary Frascos promises in her tourism development plan, especially with regard to improving accessibility and infrastructure, among other concerns, will come true.

Thats because no amount of advertising, no amount of promotional gimmicks, can sell what is regarded these days as a bad product. Sayang lang.

We have the most beautiful beaches in the world with world-class dive spots, but because of a lack of tourist-friendly infrastructure, our natural beauty is either inaccessible or comparatively expensive.

But as a domestic tourist come-on, LOVE the Philippines may be quite appropriate. Then again, are our officials targeting the domestic, or the foreign market?

From a marketing standpoint, maybe we should look at the travel market in terms of niches we could tap, and create attractive packages for these targets.

Some foreigners love the sun and sand; some prefer to hike and climb mountains. Still a few are into exploring a different culture and cuisine.

Compare us to neighbors Thailand and Malaysia, and see how they use all these niches and make their tourism affordable and accessible.

We cannot be like First World Singapore or even Japan, where expensive man-made attractions are plenty.

Yet whether in Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket, Penang or Hanoi, and even our closest neighbor, Taiwan, the traveler gets big bang for his buck compared to Manila or Palawan, in terms of accommodation, inland transport, or food.

Then there is funding, not just marketing and advertising, but, more importantly, product development, principally accessibility, connectivity, and affordability of travel.

President Marcos Sr. created the Philippine Tourism Authority and gave it extensive power to build tourism infrastructure.

Sadly, most of the infrastructure the PTA built under Marcos were left to disrepair and neglect when President Cory took over.

Then, its travel tax collections from outbound travelers were cannibalized through several legislative actions.

40 percent of the travel tax goes to the Commission on Higher Education (CHED); 10 percent to the National Commission for Culture and the Arts, and the 50 percent remaining is taxed by the BIR, so that in the end, just about 27 percent can be utilized to fund infrastructure.

Worse, legislators with pet tourism kuno projects in places where no real tourist attraction exists take their slice of the small pie, so that in the end, funds for real tourism infrastructure are niggardly and long-term planning or product development is possible.

Sen. Dick Gordon, after serving as tourism secretary under President GMA, authored the Tourism Act of 2009, converting the PTA into the TIEZA, which stands for Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority, with the DOT Secretary as the CEO and a presidential appointee is Chief Operating Officer or COO.

Armed with powers to promote private sector investments in designated tourist zones through tax incentives, TIEZA can do much if properly managed.

To its credit, it developed the water and sewerage system in Boracay, later privatized to the Ayala conglomerate.

When President Duterte closed the island because few establishments connected to the TIEZA-built pipelines and many disgorged their detritus into the pristine sea, the agency, together with DPWH, spearheaded the necessary improvements.

Boracay is much better now, thanks to PRRD, Tieza and DPWH, but wait till the local government unit, present or future, allow transgressions of carefully laid out plans and projects.

Outbound travel sustains TIEZA funding, although just about a fourth of total collections from the travel tax is usable, and much of it goes to administrative expenses.

First things first: give it the entire pie of travel tax collections.

CHED should be given its budgetary support from the GAA especially now that tertiary education in state universities and colleges are subsidized by the national government.

The NCCA and the National Museum can be supported by TIEZA on a project basis, not through a lump sum of 10 percent of the travel tax.

But then again, there are too many travel tax exemptions, principally government officials on official travel (or junkets cloaked as official) and our OFWs.

To solve the problem without burdening our OFWs when leaving the country for foreign work, there was a proposal by TIEZA officers under PRRD to streamline the travel tax, by taxing inbound travel, with no exemption, a flat rate of (US) $10 per passenger (P560 more or less), tucked into their ticket.

This was supported by the IATA or the International Air Transport Association, comprising 83 percent of world aviation.

Foreign visitors would not likely mind the $10 appended to their plane fare, especially if our airports are well-run, and returning Filipinos would get a discount, at P560 versus the P1,620 they pay as outbound travel tax.

In fact, Japan adopted the idea, but nothing happened as that would require legislation and the support of our economic managers, and then COVID came in, and whatever funds TIEZA had were co-opted by the DOF to add to the emergency expenses needed to address the pandemic.

That is something for DOT and TIEZA to resurrect, and for Congress and our economic managers to support.

And for all the funds collected to be devoted solely to tourism infrastructure, from planning to product development, along with adequate tax incentives that would attract the private sector, foreign and domestic, to invest in world-class hotels and restaurants.

With so many Filipinos now doing revenge travel, and believe me, whether in Japan, Singapore, Bangkok, Hong Kong or Taiwan, there are legions of our folks traveling these dayHBC BLURB: Not far away, a witness recounted having seen a group of about 50 people set fire to a brokerage companys office

s, saying even that it is cheaper and easier to fly to these nearby destinations than it is to Mindanao or the Visayas.

Travel tax collections have become easier though, and I did not witness long lines at the tax collection counters in the NAIA.

Apparently, payments can now be made online, an improvement made during PRRDs time.

Critical to tourism, whether in the product development aspect or in promotions, is the active and well-intentioned support of local government units.

The Local Government Code devolved tourism, along with agriculture, health and education, to primary responsibility of LGUs, what with their hefty IRA and now, the Mandanas ruling of the Supreme Court.

In practice over the last 25 or so years since, the Local Government Code has just been used as a tool in fostering and perpetuating family dynasties, and politics has become big business, but for some rara avis of development-oriented mayors and governors.

Secretary Frasco, who understands local government administration very well, should use her influence and power to steer LGUs to the right path insofar as tourism is concerned.

Bring the smiles back into this corner of Asia.

Make it stand out in the competition for tourist dollars in this part of the world, in what is now the Asian century.

That will be the time when travelers to the country will appreciate us, if not LOVE the country to come again and again.

And Filipinos themselves, whether domestic travelers or balikbayans, will truly LOVE the Philippines.

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Its the summer of Barbie. The movie release date is set for July 21, but the celebration of the iconic doll is going all season with pop-up exhibitions and hotel promotions.

If you want to travel to your own Barbie dream world, here are the best Barbie-inspired trips you can take this summer:

1. World of Barbie: Santa Monica, California

(Photo by Meghan Coyle)

The World of Barbie in Santa Monica, California, is a temporary exhibition that takes people into Barbies world, including a real-life version of her Dreamhouse, camper van, space shuttle and TV studio. Theres also a gallery portion with vintage Barbie dolls and cars on display.

The exhibit is mainly a giant photo opportunity, with some interactive activities for kids, like a ball pit, and even a salon with real stylists on certain days. If you want a unique souvenir, consider building your own custom Barbie set from scratch for an additional fee.

Ticket prices run from $35 to $50 per adult and $25 to $32 per child. The exhibit is open through early September.

2. Malibu Barbie Cafe: Chicago and New York

(Photo courtesy of Bucket Listers)

Barbie apparently eats rainbow pancakes, beach burgers and candied bacon at the Malibu Barbie Cafe. The Barbie-inspired restaurant is operating in Chicago and New York with a menu by Chef Becky Brown, who was a semifinalist on MasterChef.

And theres more to do at the Barbie restaurant than just eat. At the Chicago location, theres a roller skating rink. Both sites have a gift shop, plus plenty of Instagram-worthy sets designed for you to have your own Barbie-inspired photo shoot.

Both restaurant locations are temporary, with tickets available through mid-September.

3. The Barbie room at The Curtis Hotel: Denver

(Photo courtesy of Hilton)

You can book a Barbie-themed hotel room at The Curtis Hotel in downtown Denver. Though the hotel has a boutique feel, it's actually part of the DoubleTree by Hilton brand.

This hotel has standard rooms as well as themed rooms, including one dedicated to Barbie. The themed rooms typically cost about $50 to $60 more per night than standard rooms, according to hotel spokesperson Tamara Atkin.

The Barbie room is decorated with images of the iconic dolls and has a salon chair inside. Guests receive a complimentary makeup case and a voucher for a martini from the hotel bar. And unlike the other temporary offerings, The Curtis Hotels Barbie room is a permanent fixture.

4. The Don CeSar: St. Pete Beach, Florida

(Photo courtesy of The Don CeSar)

This beachfront resort isnt officially considered a Barbie hotel, but the Don CeSar is known as the Pink Palace. It exudes historical charm with a famous pink exterior.

Ron Sandel, general manager of HotelTonight, said in an email that the hotel has seen a 30% increase in bookings this year versus last.

With Barbie mania in full effect this summer, were not surprised to see HotelTonight users book the pink-walled hotel, he said. In addition to being steps away from one of the best beaches in the country, we love Don CeSar for its 1950s-style ice cream parlor.

5. The Ken Dreamhouse on Airbnb: Malibu, California

(Image courtesy of Airbnb)

Only a handful of lucky people will get a chance to stay in what might be the ultimate Airbnb: Barbies Malibu Dreamhouse. The oceanfront mansion includes a disco dance floor and infinity pool.

Airbnb has run promotions for the glitzy house before, and this time, the vacation rental is decked out in honor of Barbies beau, Ken. Its available to book for just two nights this summer, July 21 and July 22.

Anyone can request to book the Malibu Dreamhouse for a one-night stay for up to two guests each. While Airbnb says the bookings aren't a contest, stays are free of charge, aside from taxes and fees. The booking window opens Monday, July 17, at 10 a.m. PT, so be ready to click.

Sally French writes for NerdWallet. Email: sfrench@nerdwallet.com. Twitter: @SAFmedia.

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Sense of place isnt new to Philip Aabergs music.

The Chester native and Grammy nominee has composed piano music that evokes his native Hi-line.

His latest project, Many Worlds in the Woods, is a variation, though: swapping out his typical piano for analog synthesizer compositions inspired by the artwork in Blackfoot Pathways: Sculpture in the Wild, the sprawling nonprofit park in Lincoln.

Aaberg felt that acoustic piano puts a listener in a particular frame of mind, and wanted something more ambiguous, so people can come into the park with a sense of wonder, a sense of mystery. He thought sounds that may be hard to identify can aid with that.

He chose analog synthesizer because he loves the warm sound, and it felt right for the place itself.

These sculptors have created worlds, he said, and in building worlds, you build it step by step, which is the analog deal.

For 22 of the pieces in the park, Aaberg wrote an instrumental composition, ranging in length from around 3 minutes to 7, that he hopes will give people reason to pause and slow down. Take one of the parks earliest pieces, Chris Drurys Ponderosa Whirlpool, in which logs are arranged into a large, swirling vortex. Aaberg wrote layers of spiraling tones on the synthesizer that seem to emulate the slow, circular process.

Hell unveil them in a walking tour on July 8. (See info box.)

The plan is to develop an app with geolocation triggers, so that a specific piece of music will begin to play at the appropriate distance. It would work just like a recording of a docent that you can cue up at a museum.

Aaberg has visited the park countless times  to play at annual fundraisers, to work with school classes; hes gone on his own when there were crowds and when there was no one.

I know the area well, he said I know the sculptures. At this point, I know em really well.

When he first pondered how he would handle a composing residency, he thought he might write one or two pieces that could be performed live. The idea of composing music for each sculpture came to him quickly, partly driven by the diversity and number of works, with installations by artists from Montana, the U.S. and abroad.

The pieces are so different, he said. "The sculptures are so different, one from another, and they come from all over."

Electronic music

Aaberg has played acoustic piano at concert halls around the world, including performances with the Boston Pops, and built a solo catalog of albums on labels like Windham Hill and his own Sweetgrass Music.

Another side of his career and his interests has involved synthesizers.

Ive never felt like I need to limit myself in what I do, he said. Piano is certainly a big part of what I do.

When he went to study at Harvard, he was struck by the electronic equipment available on campus. However, it was accessible only to graduate students. He didnt want to wait, so he took a course at the New England Conservatory of Music with Robert Ceely, and bought a Mini Moog immediately.

After moving to the Bay Area, he performed with experimental groups like Paul Dreshers Electro-Acoustic Chamber Ensemble, and toured with Peter Gabriel on the pop icons first outing after leaving Genesis in the 1970s.

It was inspiring as heck  Peters ridiculous talent, he said.

Gabriel would approach the band with fragments and ideas that theyd work out into songs, as he improvised lyrics: He didnt have words to them yet, and hed say, OK, lets play that tonight. 

The Lincoln sculpture pieces were written and performed on a Prophet 6, a new version of the Sequential Prophet 5, the first polyphonic analog synthesizer, which you hear on music by Michael Jackson, Madonna, Daft Punk and Radiohead. (Think Everything in its Right Place.)

Aaberg bought one in the 1980s, and despite the high cost, paid back the loans quickly through session work.

His new compositions vary from slow-motion ambient, for the signature House of Sky, a mirrored house set high atop two poles by Alan Counihan, to faster runs that display his keyboard training. Jaakko Pernus Gateway consists of two towers marking the entrance from the highway, each constructed of spiraling forms made from sticks. The music features corresponding, ascending runs reaching ever higher.

Writing for place

Aaberg has written music about place throughout his career (See his album, High Plains). Writing on site is something more rare.

One time I had the luxury of doing that, and I actually hauled a piano onto a wheat field, but this one, theres no way to do that, he said. The reason is simple: There are no power outlets on the 26-acre parks sculpture path.

The process was more about looking and then composing.

I went out and took pretty extensive notes, even writing down some real notes  musical notes, in a notebook.

Hed sit with them for a while and try to figure out what it was that that meant to me, or what I wanted to do with that sculpture.

Hed ask himself questions: Does the sculpture itself have a sound? What kind of sound would it make? Is there something about the aura, or the feeling that he wanted to make, or enhance?

Sometimes the title spoke to the piece, like Tyler Nansens Bat Beacon, a series of poles with bat houses on top; others were more abstract.

Stinger, by Casey Schachner, comprises logs arranged in an upside-down V-pattern. It reminded him of a giant marimba and mallets, so he wrote a rhythmic piece that uses synth to imitate the percussive instrument.

Patrick Dougherty built Tree Circus out of thousands of sticks, twisted into a flowing, spire-topped house. Aaberg wrote one part that sounds like a circus calliope, but otherwise chose mysterious tones, and long tones.

The sculpture has interior chambers and multiple doorways to wander through, with many vantage points. Its a very strange little place to come across in a forest, and perhaps you should be a little bit afraid when you first approach.

The first section is designed to feel shiver-inducing, then calms down.

One of the entry points to the parks concept  sculpture thats tied to the areas history  is Montana Memory, by Kevin ODwyer, the parks founding artistic director, who recently stepped down.

Its an old scrap burner  Aaberg prefers the term beehive burner, as theyre called in Canada, rather than teepee burner, which brings up an idea of the way this land was settled that I dont really approve of.

The music begins with low-pitched, ominous tones that came to mind when he was imagining what sounds the metal structure, heating and expanding and contracting, might have produced when filled with burning wood chips and other detritus. That transitions into a more sad, perhaps, and nostalgic section.

One of the 2022 additions is Bently Spangs Weve Always Been Here and Were Still Here, which plants a flag for the Indigenous presence, then and now, in the landscape. The Northern Cheyenne artists piece comprises a series of intertwined teepee structures, left uncovered.

Aaberg, whos attended many powwows, said he thought of the way a high wind can quiet or change the sound of a drum group. Or when women begin to sing and add a higher voice to the sound.

He wrote a drum group-like rhythm (in a synthesizer context), with swirls of electronic melody over the top.

I'm really familiar with the great, great drum groups that are around, and that's an ever-evolving art form  and very important to the culture, he said.

If you want to hear the music, youll have to go to the opening. The app process is still in development. In the meantime, hes considering releasing it as a CD or perhaps a high-resolution digital download.

There is a bigger history there, and a wider history than what people get to see," Aaberg said. "So my idea with doing these pieces was to really open up some doors and some windows and maybe make people stop and spend a little more time with each sculpture, and maybe consider them in a little different light.
Missoula Public Library Independence Day Closures

Missoula Public Library and its branches will be closed July 3 and July 4 in observance of Independence Day. Patrons can access their accounts during the closure at: missoulapubliclibrary.org/.

All Together Now Summer Learning Program

The Summer Learning Program is part of MPLs mission to promote childrens literacy, help prevent the summer slide in reading skills, and provide lifelong learning opportunities for readers of all ages. From June 1 through Aug. 31, patrons of all ages can pick up a printed reading log for young readers or a Library BINGO card for teens and adults, as well as enjoy a variety of fantastic offerings during our Summer Learning Program, All Together Now. Visit missoulapubliclibrary.org/home/programs-events/summer-learning-program/ for details on how to participate in this years challenge and for a complete list of programs that we have to offer. The Summer Learning Program is made possible with support from the Missoula Public Library Foundation.

Kids Table with the Missoula Food Bank

Kids aged 18 and under can eat a free lunch every week day during the summer at Missoula Public Library. Drop in for a meal Monday through Friday from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the Imaginarium on Level Two of the library. Meals provided by Missoula Food Bank and no registration is required. For more information and locations, please visit the USDA Food and Nutrition website at: fns.usda.gov/meals4kids.

Missoula Pubic Library MakerSpace: CNC Basics

A CNC router is a computer-controlled machine used for milling, drilling and cutting materials like wood and plastic. On July 5 from 6 to 8 p.m. come to your librarys MakerSpace and learn the basics of CNC routing and find out how to access the Makerspace's CNC software from home during this free workshop.

Kids Cook with ChopChop

Join Missoula Public Library on July 6 from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. in the Level Three Demo Kitchen for this program. Taking inspiration from our kids magazine ChopChop, kids and their families can learn how to create tasty snacks and easy meal options they can make at home.

spectrUM Special Guest: Missoula Butterfly House and Insectarium Visit the Library

The Missoula Butterfly House and Insectarium will bring their bug ambassadors and fun activities to the spectrUM Discovery Area on July 6 from from 3 to 5 p.m. on Level Two of the library. No need to register, just drop in and enjoy the fun!

Girls Who Code Club

Kids and teens of any experience level are invited to join the Girls Who Code club, where they will not only learn to code with games and engaging lesson plans, they will also join an international network of coding professionals and other computer scientists. This coding club is open to all genders and takes place every Thursday this summer. Kids are divided into groups of third through fifth graders and sixth through 12th graders. Participants may pre-register by creating an account at girlswhocode.com, or may register at their first meeting by bringing a valid email address. The next club meeting will take place on July 6 from 3:30 to 5 p.m. in the MakerSpace on Level One of the library.

Families First Learning Lab: Downtown ToNight

Join Families First Learning Lab at one of Missoulas best parts of summer, Downtown ToNight at Caras Park! On July 6 from 5 to 8 p.m. in Caras Park, Families First Learning Lab will be offering free and fun activities for kids of all ages.

Summer Learning Program: Chris Sand Sings Songs for Sprouting Children and Other Human Beans

Celebrate MPL's Summer Learning Program by joining local musician Chris Sand, the Rappin' Cowboy, for songs from his new album and songbook Magic Beans! On July 8 from 2 to 3 p.m. in the Imaginarium on Level Two of the library, Chris will sings songs for kids and other human "beans" to enjoy.

'When We Lost Our Heads' by Heather ONeill

Riverhead Books, Feb. 8, 2022

Call Number: ONEILL

Many books have been written about the agonies and the ecstasies of female friendships. However, I dont think any of them presented the friends as allegories for the Marquis de Sade and Marie Antoinette growing up in 19th century Montreal. Until Heather ONeills stunning novel (her follow up to the also-amazing The Lonely Hearts Hotel, which you can find right next to this one in the Missoula Public Library stacks).

Sweet Marie Antoine and scheming Sadie meet as girls, and their friendship quickly becomes all-consuming (as young friendships tend to be). After a horrific incident, the girls are separated; Marie shadows her rich sugar-baron father in his factory, poised to take the leadership role one day. Sadie, after a stint in boarding school, finds herself navigating the slums of Montreal, from brothels to dance halls. Inevitably, the women are reunited, and their obsession with each other will lead to disastrous consequences.

ONeill can spin a simile like no other author Ive read. Her descriptions of places, clothing, and psyches place you in the midst of Marie and Sadies lives. You can smell the sugar in the air and the squalor in the streets. You feel the destructive pull Marie and Sadie have over each other, thick and heavy as fog. You will relish in the opulence and destitution alike as Marie and Sadies story unfolds.

 Reviewed by Kayla Whitaker
Satellite images analyzed by the Associated Press on Saturday showed what appeared to be a newly built military-style camp in Belarus, with statements from a Belarusian guerrilla group and officials suggesting it may be used to house fighters from the Wagner mercenary group.

The images suggest that dozens of tents were erected within the past two weeks at a former military base outside Osipovichi, a town about 140 miles north of the Ukrainian border. A satellite photo taken on Jun. 15 shows no sign of the rows of white and green structures that are clearly visible in a later image, dated Friday.

Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin and his fighters escaped prosecution and were offered refuge in Belarus last week after Minsk helped broker a deal to end what appeared to be an armed insurrection by the mercenary group.

The abortive revolt saw Wagner troops who had fought alongside Russian forces in Ukraine capture a military headquarters in southern Russia and march hundreds of miles toward Moscow, seemingly unimpeded.

Belarus authoritarian president, Alexander Lukashenko, said his country, a close and dependent ally of Moscow, could use Wagners experience and expertise, and announced that he offered the fighters an abandoned military unit to set up camp.

Aliaksandr Azarau, leader of the anti-Lukashenko BYPOL guerrilla group of former military members, told The Associated Press by phone on Thursday that construction of a site for Wagner mercenaries was underway near Osipovichi.

Up to 8,000 fighters from Wagners private military force may be deployed in Belarus, a spokesperson for Ukraines border force told Ukrainian media Saturday. Speaking to the Ukrainska Pravda newspaper, Andriy Demchenko said Ukraine would strengthen its 674-mile border with Belarus in response.

Demchenko told Ukrainska Pravda on Saturday that as of this week, some 2,000 troops from regular Russian army units also remained stationed in Belarus.

Meanwhile, Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez began a visit to Kyiv as a show of continuing support from Madrid and the European Union for Ukraines fight to dislodge invading Russian forces.

In an address to Ukraines parliament that received several standing ovations, Sanchez said, Well be with you as long as it takes.

I am here to express the firm determination of the European (Union) and Europe against the illegal and unjustified Russian aggression to Ukraine, he said as Spain took over the six-month rotating presidency of the 27-nation EU.

At a later news conference with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Sanchez announced Spain would deliver more heavy weaponry to Ukraine including four Leopard tanks and armored personnel carriers, as well as a portable field hospital. He also said Spain will provide an additional 55 million euros to help with reconstruction needs.

Elsewhere in Ukraine, regional officials reported that at least three civilians were killed and 17 wounded by Russian shelling on Friday and overnight in the front-line eastern Donetsk region, where fierce battles are raging, Donetsk Gov. Pavlo Kyrylenko said.

The Ukrainian General Staff reported that fierce clashes continued in three areas in Donetsk where it said Russia massed troops and attempted to advance. It named the outskirts of three cities  Bakhmut, Lyman and Marinka  as front-line hot spots.

Five people including a child were wounded Friday and overnight in the Kherson region in the south, regional Gov. Oleksandr Prokudin said. Prokudin said Russian forces launched 82 artillery, drone, mortar shell and rocket attacks on the province, which is cut in two by a stretch of the front line and still reeling from flooding unleashed by the collapse earlier this month of a major Dnipro river dam.

In the northeastern Kharkiv region, Russian shelling over the previous day wounded a 57-year-old civilian, Gov. Oleh Syniehubov said. In the Sumy region farther west, a teenage boy was hurt in a strike from across the Russian border, the local military administration reported.

Referring to possible peace talks, Sanchez said that only Ukraine can set the terms and times for peace negotiations. Other countries and regions are proposing peace plans. Their involvement is much appreciated, but, at the same time, we cant accept them entirely.

This is a war of aggression, with an aggressor and a victim. They cannot be treated equally and ignoring the rules should in no way be rewarded. That is why that is why we support President Zelenskyys peace formula, Sanchez added.

Zelenskyy expressed frustration at the news conference about the lack of clarity over Western training for Ukrainian fighter pilots. He said Western allies have not yet set a timetable to train pilots on U.S.-made F-16s despite their expressions of readiness.

I think that some partners are delaying this process, why they do this I have no idea, he said.

The introduction of F-16s to the war could give Ukraine a much needed edge over Russia, which currently enjoys air superiority.
On June 27, 2023, the United States Supreme Court soundly rejected (in a 6-3 decision authored by Chief Justice Roberts) a bogus constitutional law theory promoted by the conservative right wing of the Republican Party, the Freedom Caucus and their cult leader, Donald J. Trump.

The case in point is Moore v. Harper, which involved whether the Election Clause (Article I, section 4 of the Federal Constitution) validates the Independent State Legislature (ISL) theory. If ISL had been a valid interpretation of the Election Clause, it would have conferred upon state legislatures the exclusive power to redraw congressional districts for federal elections, appoint state electors  and, thus, effectively gerrymander congressional districts to favor one political party and to otherwise subvert citizens fundamental right to vote. I emphasize exclusive power because Plaintiff Moore argued that ISL means that there can be no judicial review of the legislatures decisions, even if their decisions violate the states own laws and constitution.

J. Michael Luttig (former 4th Circuit Court Judge, appointed in 1991 by President George H.W. Bush) described Moore as the most important case for America that was pending before the U.S. Supreme Court." Indeed, if the Court had ruled otherwise it would have upended election laws in every state, and set the stage for the sort of chicanery and corruption that Trump and his minions tried in order to steal the 2020 presidential election after his loss to Joe Biden.

Montanas Republican Attorney General Austin Knudsen joined 10 other attorneys general in filing a brief with the U.S. Supreme Court supporting the ISL. And, in the ongoing legal battle over new election administration laws passed by the 2021 Legislature, Republican Secretary of State Christi Jacobsen filed a brief supporting the ISL.

Ironically, the Supreme Courts decision was handed down the same day that Donald K Kaltschmidt, chair of the Montana Republican Party, published (Independent Record, p. A4) his self-laudatory guest view praising his party of freedom from socialism, praising its tremendous successes, its values, and flipping Montana into the Red State column.

K also pointedly trashed Senator Jon Tester as a woke, hypocritical, corrupt socialist.

K apparently has no clue of what socialism actually is  a theory of social organization that advocates for the ownership and control of the means of production, distribution, capital, and land through a centralized government.

But more to the point his partys advocacy for the ISL and the 2021 and 2023 sessions war on Montanas courts and judiciary, on trans and LGTBQIA+ people, on the drag folks, on public education, on womens right to control their bodies and reproductive choices, on parents rights to make health care decisions for their children, on freedom of the press, on freedom of speech and on the right of suffrage and initiative  the sessions that banned books, one form of social media, practiced medicine, bullied doctors, adopted the Biblical, albeit false, definition of sex, rejected science, and thumbed their collective noses at the Constitution and at nearly every group and citizen that was not wearing a MAGA hat--or a tinfoil one, belies Ks designating the Montana GOP as a party of freedom.

In fact, what the Montana GOP has become is the party of authoritarianism  a political system in which individual freedom is held completely subordinate to the power or authority of the state and is not constitutionally accountable to the people.

A party of freedom, Montanas GOP is not! Quite to the contrary, based upon the above there is a more malignant "f" word describing where the Montana GOP is headed: Fascism.
Nelson Schoon, of Washington Township, discusses the model of his proposed Project Ribeye following the Porter County Plan Commission meeting on Wednesday, June 28, 2023.. (Shelley Jones/Post-Tribune)

By a unanimous 8-to-0 vote Wednesday evening the Porter County Plan Commission gave its blessing to the Project Ribeye meat processing plant proposed for Hebron.

The group will pass its recommendation to allow a zoning change from A1, agricultural, to I2, industrial, on to the Porter County Board of Commissioners, which is expected to vote on the proposal at its next meeting at 10 a.m. on Tuesday, July 11.

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The town of DeMotte previously rejected the custom-processing plant that intends to slaughter 20 to 25 head of cattle a day, as well as a few pigs, under USDA inspection. A smoker for the processing of turkey, hams, summer sausage, etc., is expected to release smoke seven minutes out of every hour.

A handful of residents from the area surrounding the proposed plant, which is slated for the southeast corner of U.S. 231 and Indiana 2/County Road W 1000 South, asked a range of questions regarding everything from environmental protection measures to accident preparedness plans.

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Nelson and Sandy Schoon, of Washington Township, along with their four daughters, will maintain 70% majority control of the business, which is positioning itself as a custom processor. Schoon gave a presentation explaining his familys intention to fill a niche market.

He said there are four big meat processors: Cargill, JBS, National Beef Sales and Tyson. The wait list to receive processing with them is six to 12 months. Schoon said 200,000 cattle are grazed in Northwest Indiana annually, but there is currently only custom processing capacity for 50,000.

I have a business model that is contrary to most businesses in any industry, Schoon told the commission. How much can I pay the farmer? How much can I pay the employee? How little can I charge the customer and still make a profit?

Marianne OConnor, who lives in the 600 block of W 1000 S, was frustrated by the vote. She cited research showing property values dropping as much as 88% when in the vicinity of meat processing plants.

Thats a lot of homeowners that are going to be losing money, she said. And what is Porter County going to do to offset the loss of property taxes when our property values tank?

Her neighbor Janet Beech, in the 700 block of W 1000 S, is concerned about traffic. That intersection is a drag strip, she said. There are people passing in front of my driveway.

Bob Barker, of Hebron, agreed. I own a business there and its bad, he said. I can hardly pull out of my shop.

Project Ribeye will be paying to extend 1.4 miles of sewer and water lines from the town of Hebron and has applied for Tax Increment Financing (TIF). If approved, that would work by the Porter County Redevelopment Commission issuing a bond to pay for the utility extension, according to RDC project manager Stu Summers. Project Ribeye would then buy the bond and receive subsequent tax breaks.

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Hebron Town Council President John Spinks was present and told the residents that while anyone who wanted to tie into the utilities could, it would not be required of surrounding properties. He also said engineers have assured the town that its water system can handle the approximately 10,000 gallons of water a day that would be used by the 15,000-square-foot building.

An additional 25,000-square-foot enclosed pen designed by animal behavior expert Dr. Temple Grandin of Colorado State University will serve as the starting point for a humane-kill facility for any animals that may be showing signs of stress, as stress hormones affect the meat. General manager Deidra Dezelich explained that the design of the pen allows for the animals to only need to be held for six hours rather than the standard 18 required for destressing.

That will allow for no animals to be held overnight. Schoon said animals will be brought in by pickup truck and livestock trailer around 6 a.m. Workers will operate on swing shifts, be paid a range of $25 to $40 per hour, have free medical benefits, the opportunity for overtime, be served a hot lunch daily to compensate for the cold conditions in which they work, and receive an employee discount on meat.

This is not an easy job. This is a skilled job, Schoon said, adding that they hope to start an apprenticeship program for the noble craft of butchering.

The Schoons, whose four daughters grew up raising cattle for 4-H, have committed the month of July and the first two weeks of August to processing 4-H cattle from the six surrounding counties. We are very much committed to the 4-H, Schoon said, explaining that buyers are reluctant to bid on 4-H cattle for lack of processing.

Shelley Jones is a freelance reporter for the Post-Tribune.
In another sign of our changing times, President Joe Biden welcomed Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in late June for a high-level state visit  just the third during Bidens presidency  complete with a star-studded White House dinner and Modis address to Congress. The visit resulted in agreements for greater technology and defense exchanges and warm words between the two leaders.

Biden described the U.S.-India relationship as a partnership that is among the most consequential in the world, that is stronger, closer, and more dynamic than any time in history. Modi replied in equally glowing terms, referring to India-America relations as a comprehensive and global strategic partnership."

Younger readers will not remember Indias well-known stance as leader of the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) during the Cold War between the United States and our allies on one side, and the former Soviet Union and its satellite countries on the other.

India, joined eventually by about 120 countries in Asia, Africa, the Middle East, and Latin America, sought to carve a separate path between the two nuclear-armed titans and their blocs. Even after the Cold War ended with the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991, India and its NAM partners maintained an independent stance, aiming to avoid being drawn into ideological battles and military alliances.

How things have changed. In the past few years, India has drawn closer to America, including joining the Quad, a new security grouping that also includes Japan and Australia. America holds more military exercises with India than with any other country. And our bilateral trade and investment ties have grown markedly, with America now ranking as Indias largest trading partner.

What accounts for this change in Indias stance? In a word: China. Indias Himalayan border with China remains contested, with the two nuclear-armed powers engaging in deadly skirmishes as recently as 2020. Chinas more assertive behavior in the Indo-Pacific region and elsewhere appears to have convinced Indias leaders that a strengthened partnership with America and our allies and partners will help counterbalance the growing threat posed by China.

That said, India continues to tread an independent path, which is particularly evident in its dealings with Russia. India has remained neutral on Russias war against Ukraine, with Modi stating in his June 22 White House remarks that India has laid emphasis on resolution of dispute through dialogue and diplomacy.

India remains one of Russias largest buyers of military equipment and has stepped up its oil purchases as Western sanctions block Russias sales to its erstwhile customers in Europe, Asia, and elsewhere.

But the recent failed military mutiny in Russia, with Wagner mercenary troops led by Yevgeniy Prigozhin at one point marching toward Moscow, surely gives Indias leaders reason to hedge their bets and avoid tilting too strongly in Russias direction.

While there are many issues that divide us, including Indias growing authoritarian bent, America and India both have very pragmatic reasons for strengthening ties in todays rapidly changing geopolitical landscape. India recently surpassed China as the worlds most populous country, and its economy is expected to eclipse Japan and Germany in size in the next few years. Moreover, its sizeable military and location in South Asia with maritime borders that reach from Southeast Asia toward the Middle East make it a valuable military partner.

Our shared interest in addressing Chinas military assertiveness, supply chain vulnerabilities, climate change, and other common challenges means that India and America both can benefit from a stronger, more stable relationship. While each country will pursue its own interests within the relationship, its fair to say the U.S.-India partnership surely will grow deeper in the coming years.

Personal note

I conclude with a personal note. After ten-and-a-half years of writing a monthly column for the Missoulian and Montana Lee Newspapers, I have decided to move to a less regular column, weighing in when I feel an issue particularly merits commentary. I thank all my readers for your loyalty and for your comments and compliments along the way. Your interest and feedback have made it highly rewarding for me to write articles on domestic and international developments of significance to us here in Montana and beyond. Until we meet again in these pages, I wish you all the very best, now and in the months to come.
BALTIMORE (AP)  Gunfire erupted at a block party in Baltimore on Sunday  killing two people, wounding 28 and leaving an extensive crime scene that marred the U.S. holiday weekend, police said. Three of the wounded were in critical condition and more than a dozen were under 18.

The shooting took place just after 12:30 a.m. when at least two people opened fire at a block party in the Brooklyn Homes area in the southern part of the city, said Richard Worley, Baltimore's acting police commissioner. No arrests had been made by late afternoon. It wasn't clear if the shooting was targeted or random, Worley said.

The shooting comes amid gatherings around the country leading up to the July Fourth holiday. Elsewhere, a shooting in Kansas left seven people with gunshot wounds and two more victims hospitalized after being trampled as people rushed out of a nightclub early Sunday morning, police there said.

The violence in Baltimore occurred as federal prosecutors there this week touted their efforts to reduce violent crime in the city. Police have reported nearly 130 homicides and close to 300 shootings so far this year, though thats down from the same time last year. Authorities have vowed to crack down aggressively on repeat violent offenders.

Nine of Sunday's victims were taken by ambulance and 20 walked into area hospitals with injuries from the shooting, Worley said. Nine remained hospitalized Sunday afternoon.

The deceased victims were identified as 18-year-old Aaliyah Gonzalez and 20-year-old Kylis Fagbemi, police said Sunday. Gonzalez died at the scene, and Fagbemi died at the hospital. The 28 injured ranged in age from 13 to 32, with more than half of them being younger than 18, officials said.

I want those who are responsible to hear me, and hear me very clearly, Mayor Brandon Scott said at the scene. We will not stop until we find you, and we will find you. Until then, I hope that every single breath you take, that you think about the lives that you took, think about the lives that you impacted here tonight.

Scott asked anyone with information to come forward to help investigators locate the cowards who were responsible for the shooting.

Gov. Wes Moore said his heart breaks for these victims, their families, and the Baltimore community that is coping with the loss.

Maryland has had enough of watching gun violence continue to ravage our state and our nation, Moore said in a statement. The fact that these horrific shootings continue to take place is abominable. We as a state will continue to do everything we can to prevent senseless acts of violence like the one we saw last night.

Authorities said the crime scene was extensive and that it took some time for detectives to work it.

Hours after the shooting, a number of officers remained working behind police tape amid densely packed two-story housing blocks. Folding tables and plastic cups were scattered on the street, apparently left behind when people ran from the gunshots.

Lakell Nelson said there had been several false alarms of people mistaking the sounds of fireworks for gunfire earlier in the night while she was at the block party. The actual shooting started as she was getting to her car.

The shots were just going on and on and on, she said.

Thats when two young women approached her and said they had been shot, with one woman showing how a bullet had gone through her shorts.

Nelson said she told the women to get in the car, and she sped through red lights to get to the nearest hospital.

When I pulled up to the door of the hospital, my car was almost getting ready to be inside the hospital, because I was determined to get those babies in that hospital, Nelson said.

A police union official said in an email Sunday there were no officers specifically assigned to the gathering.

There were only three officers assigned to the Brooklyn area of Baltimore Citys Southern District. This is a large area, and to police it safely and effectively you need about seven to eight officers per shift, said Mike Mancuso, president of the Baltimore City Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 3.

Mancuso said about 2,800 officers are needed to effectively police the city, but staffing is down to about 2,100.

Worley said Sunday afternoon that the department hadn't been aware in advance that the event was happening, and he said organizers hadn't received a permit. He said that the department would examine its response.

Ramer reported from Concord, New Hampshire. Kimberlee Kruesi in Nashville, Tennessee, contributed to this report.
HARRISBURG, Pa.  Spurred on by train derailments, some states with busy criss-crossing freight railroads are pursuing their own safety remedies rather than wait for federal action amid industry opposition and questions about whether they even have authority to make the changes.

The activity comes after a train carrying toxic chemicals derailed on Feb. 3 along the Ohio-Pennsylvania border, prompting new legislation and reviving long-stalled efforts as backers voice skepticism that the federal government is capable of helping.

Rail cars carrying hazardous materials fell into the Yellowstone River in southern Montana after a bridge collapsed last weekend.

Sixteen cars derailed, and 10 of them ended up in the river downstream from Yellowstone National Park on June 24.

Legislatures in at least a dozen states have advanced measures in recent weeks, including some in states such as Minnesota that have witnessed disruptive derailments.

Some of the new requirements include provisions long resisted by the railroad industry. It contends it's capable of making improvements and that its growing efficiency  including significantly longer trains and a much smaller workforce  doesn't compromise safety.

In large part, states want limits on the length of trains that routinely stretch more than 2 miles and on how much time trains can block road crossings  which can disrupt traffic and block emergency response vehicles.

They are also pursuing rules to maintain the current standard of two-person crews, bolster the trackside detectors used to identify equipment problems and require more notice to local emergency responders about hazardous freight.

The railroads argue that the industry's overall safety record has been improving even as trains have grown longer and crew sizes shrank over the decades. So Norfolk Southern CEO Alan Shaw said in an interview that he doesn't think it makes sense to regulate those areas.

"We're going to follow the science and we're going to follow the data," Shaw said. "We're looking for investments in safety that are going to drive favorable outcomes."

And the state efforts to regulate rail are fraught with legal uncertainty over whether only the federal government can enforce such requirements. And Congress and federal regulators are considering similar measures.

Ohio moved quickly, with the Republican-controlled government enacting a new law within two months of the Norfolk Southern train derailment in East Palestine.

The evacuation from the fiery crash extended into Pennsylvania, where the state House of Representatives approved a wide-ranging safety bill in early June.

The sponsor, Rep. Rob Matzie, a Democrat whose western Pennsylvania district is home to a major rail freight handling hub, said he is satisfied with the state's legal standing.

He said he is sick of hearing that the East Palestine derailment is an isolated incident, that the rail companies are making improvements or that the federal government will order safety improvements.

"It's now time for this state to act," Matzie told colleagues during floor arguments. "We can't wait for federal regulations, which always seem to be in the works, but never quite get done. Or for federal laws that will never ever see the light of day."

States maintain that Congress long ago gave them the authority to regulate aspects of rail safety that federal regulations don't cover and that courts require federal law to be clear about when that responsibility rests exclusively with a federal agency.

Railroads, however, argue that federal law broadly gives federal agencies exclusive jurisdiction to regulate rail transportation and that state laws ostensibly aimed at rail safety often do not actually improve safety.

Prior experiences haven't exactly inspired confidence that the federal government will act quickly.

For instance, a 2008 law requiring the deployment of positive train control systems  equipment designed to prevent train-to-train collisions, over-speed derailments and other accidents  wasn't fully implemented until almost 2021.

Then in 2018, then-President Donald Trump's administration dropped a proposed rule that would have required trains hauling highly flammable liquids like crude oil to be fitted with advanced braking systems.

Two rail union officials  Jason Doering and Matt Parker  who have both lobbied for legislation in Nevada for years said it's important for states to act because they're not optimistic that Congress will pass meaningful reforms over the strong lobbying of the railroads in a polarized political climate. Plus, they said "the federal government's approach to rail safety has historically been more reactionary than proactive."

The Norfolk Southern derailment in East Palestine spurred legislation in Congress that advanced out of committee in the Democratic-controlled Senate, but its future in that chamber  not to mention the Republican-controlled House  is uncertain amid industry opposition.

Sen. Sherrod Brown, an Ohio Democrat who is a lead sponsor, said earlier this month that they are still trying to line up support and predicted "pressure by the rail lobby and, frankly, from some Republican leaders to weaken or kill the bill."

Even though government data shows that derailments have declined in recent years, there were still 1,049 of them last year  roughly three a day. More than three-quarters of them happen at slow speeds in railyards and don't cause significant damage.

The industry contends that it remains the safest way to transport hazardous materials over land. Norfolk Southern and all the major railroads have announced steps to improve safety such as by installing more trackside detectors that railroads use to spot problems and prevent derailments  though regulators and lawmakers have urged them to do more.
Transgender woman with HIV put in solitary confinement for 6 years in Missouri: Lawsuit

A transgender woman who spent more than 2,000 days in solitary confinement while in a Missouri prison alleges corrections officials discriminated against her because she has HIV.

The unnamed woman is referred to as Jane Roe in a federal lawsuit filed Tuesday in the U.S. Court for the Western District of Missouri. Anne Precythe, director of the Missouri Department of Corrections, and 11 other employees are named as defendants.

The woman, who is Black, said that more than six years in solitary confinement pushed her beyond the brink, and that she made attempts to kill herself.

Prolonged solitary confinement can cause anxiety, hallucinations and other serious psychological repercussions.

A report released earlier this year found 11.9% of prisoners in Missouri were in what the state calls restrictive housing on a given day, which was higher than the national rate of 6% to 7%.

Corrections officials, the lawsuit said, also enforce a policy that discriminates against people with HIV.

No person should be subjected to the inhumane and devastating effects of long-term solitary confinement, conditions that Ms. Roe faced every day for more than six years, Richard Saenz, a senior attorney at civil rights organization Lambda Legal, said in a statement. We filed this lawsuit to hold the Missouri Department of Corrections accountable for its use of an unconstitutional and discriminatory policy that singles out people living with HIV.

The corrections department said it does not comment on litigation, adding that it does not automatically segregate HIV-positive prisoners.

Arbitrary punishment

According to the lawsuit, the woman was assaulted by her cellmate at Jefferson City Correctional Center in 2015. Initially, she was the one who was charged.

As punishment for experiencing a sexual assault and because of her HIV status, Ms. Roe was deemed an immediate or long-term danger to other defenders and was placed in solitary confinement, the lawsuit said.

A corrections department policy says prisoners who are a danger, including those who are violent or sexually active and have HIV, can be sent to solitary confinement.

Attorneys for the woman said she was not sexually active and was on anti-retroviral medication which suppressed the virus.

Even after prosecutors dismissed the charge in 2016, she remained in solitary where she was regularly exposed to horrific conditions, the lawsuit said, including near constant screaming, exposure to light, and the smell of mace and feces.

She suffered from depression, insomnia and suicidal ideation, and was also denied gender-affirming medical care for three years, the lawsuit said.

Her attorneys alleged that reviews about her solitary confinement placement lasted less than a minute and she was not allowed to speak.

The prisons arbitrary punishment and order for solitary confinement were based solely on Ms. Roes HIV status, the lawsuit alleged.

The lawsuit lists five counts including cruel and unusual punishment and violations of due process and the Equal Protection Clause.

The woman was released on parole last year.
Anyone thinking about running for a seat on a local city of town council doesnt have much longer to decide.

Candidate filing starts at noon Friday, July 7, for the city of Morganton and towns of Valdese, Drexel, Glen Alpine and Connelly Springs. The towns of Rutherford College and Hildebran will not hold elections this year but will be on the ballot next year with the school board and county commissioners. Those towns, through state legislation, chose to move their elections to even-numbered years.

This will be the first year that the Burke County Board of Education wont be on the ballot with municipalities.

The Burke County Board of Education has traditionally held its election during odd years but that was changed with a legislative local bill in 2021.

It moved the board of education election to even-numbered years and also made the board partisan. The school board election, because it will be partisan, will hold its next primary election in March 2024, according to election officials.

The towns that have seats up for grabs are:

City of Morganton

Filing fee is $25

Mayor  Incumbent is Ronnie Thompson

District 1 council seat  Incumbent is Butch McSwain

District 2 council seat  Incumbent is Chris Jernigan

Valdese

Filing fee is $10

Ward 1 council seat  Unexpired term, with two years remaining. Incumbent is Tim Barus

Ward 4 council seat  Incumbent is Frances Hildebran

Ward 5 council seat  Incumbent is Tim Skidmore

Drexel

Filing fee for mayor is $10. Filing fee for aldermen is $5

Mayor  Incumbent is Dennis Anthony

Aldermen  Incumbents are Rick Cline, Terry Yount and Michael Scott Coe, who was appointed to Dennis Anthonys unexpired term.

Town of Glen Alpine

Filing fee is $5

Aldermen  Incumbents are Tommy Fluff Helms and Rodney Cox

Connelly Springs

Filing fee is $5

Incumbents are Steve Smart, Ramona Duncan and Kim Sigmon

Because Rutherford College and Hildebran elections wont be on the ballot this year, there will be 13 precincts that wont be open this year because they dont contain any municipality voters, according to election officials.

The precincts that will be closed on Election Day this year are:

Drexel No. 3 precinct (High Peak Baptist Church)

Icard No. 2 (George Hildebran Fire Department)

Icard No. 3 (Hildebran Municipal Gym)

Jonas Ridge (Jonas Ridge Fire Department)

Linville No. 1 (Longtown Fire Department)

Linville No. 2 (Lake James Fire Department)

Quaker Meadows 1B (Quaker Meadows Presbyterian Church)

Silvercreek No. 2 (West End Fire Department)

Upper Creek (Smyrna Baptist Church)

Upper Fork (Enola Fire Department)

Chesterfield Ruritan Club

Lower Fork (South Mountain Fire Department)

Pilot Mountain

For more information about seats up for election or filing, call the Burke County Board of Elections at 828-764-9010.
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Tammy Cox, long-time pharmacy director at Southwest Montana Community Health Center, was recently named its executive director.

In addition, pharmacist Katie McGree will replace Cox as the federally qualified health clinics pharmacy director. Former executive director Dr. Shawna Yates will continue working for the clinic, caring for the communitys senior population.

We are very pleased to welcome Tammy Cox as the clinics executive director. She has worked for the clinic for more than 20 years and she has such a wealth of historical knowledge and experience, said Wayne Harper, chairman of the all-volunteer board of directors.

He added that the board is appreciative of the efforts of Dr. Yates, who has guided the clinic the past three years, overseeing several large projects for the clinic as well as directing efforts during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Dr. Yates accomplished so much during her tenure including the remodeling and opening of our new clinic in Dillon as well as a new dental clinic in that town. We certainly understand her desire to return to clinical care, but she will be missed on the administrative team, Harper added.

McGree received her Doctor of Pharmacy degree from the University of Montana in 2005 and has been with the center since 2016. Prior to joining the clinic, she worked as a community pharmacist for 11 years. McGree is board certified in geriatric pharmacy and is a clinical pharmacist practitioner.

The health center is a 36-year-old private nonprofit clinic that cares for more than 14,000 patients yearly in Beaverhead, Butte-Silver Bow and Anaconda-Deer Lodge counties. It offers primary medical, dental, pharmacy, behavioral health and care management services and has been recognized statewide and nationally for the quality care provided. Services at Southwest Montana Community Health Center are open to all community members and all insurances are accepted.
Thank you to Stacie Barry and other brave scientists who have stood up to the wall of silence imposed by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and ARCO-British Petroleum.

The excellent investigative article by David McCumber (Montana Standard and Helena Independent Record, June 25) reveals the extent to which the agency and corporation have gone not merely to quash science but to discredit independent scientists. The EPA does not want us to know the truth about the health problems left by historic mining and smelting, health problems that continue after inadequate cleanup.

Stacie Barrys 2012 Ph.D. dissertation showed a strong link between Buttes mortality rate and pollution from arsenic and heavy metals. I was privileged to chair Dr. Barrys dissertation committee, which included faculty from Montana Tech and the University of Montana. Buttes relatively small population and the difficulty of accessing health data posed huge challenges for Dr. Barry and others who study the effects of arsenic and other mine waste pollution in Butte.

She used sophisticated statistical techniques to tease out the pollution-mortality relationship, and it is unconscionable that EPA and the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry chose to repress the results instead of following up with more in-depth studies and more protective cleanup.

A few years after Dr. Barry completed her research, I taught a course on science communication at Sun Yat-sen University in China. By remarkable coincidence, one of my graduate students was doing research very similar to Dr. Barry. The student studied cancer rates in the Hengshi River watershed, a historic copper mining and smelting region of China. There were two huge differences with Dr. Barrys study: one, the government gave the Chinese scholar full access to health records that would be protected as private in the U.S. (the HIPAA rule); and two, the regions population was about 1 million, which removed many statistical constraints.

Soil arsenic levels near historic Hengshi mining and smelting sites range up to 218 ppm. Residential areas, which Chinese locals refer to as cancer villages, have arsenic levels as high as 88 ppm with a mean of about 29 ppm. Like Butte, heavy metals such as lead and cadmium are also often present at toxic levels. It is well known that toxic metals have additive and sometimes multiplicative effects, so that 1 + 1 can equal 4. (Note the similarity to the tobacco smoking and asbestos exposure multiplicative effect known as additive synergism.)

My Chinese students work confirmed earlier studies and showed a high (statistically strong) cancer risk at arsenic levels above 50 ppm. Based on her work and other studies, the Chinese governments action level for arsenic is 30 ppm. Cleanup may occur or whole villages may be moved, depending on the circumstances.

The EPA action level for arsenic in Butte and Anaconda, that is the level at which residential cleanup is triggered, is 250 ppm.

Ouch.

Americans dont normally think of Chinas government as more protective of environmental health than our own. To add insult to injury, Butte and Anaconda are a huge exception even within the U.S., where the EPAs typical action level for arsenic is below 80 ppm. The EPA would have us believe that arsenic in Butte is far less dangerous than arsenic from similar sources (copper mining and smelting) in China or in other parts of our own country.

From the inception of Superfund in the early 1980s to today, journalists have played a key role in exposing EPA ineptitude and willful negligence. The asbestos tragedy in Libby is a prime example, because both EPA and the state of Montana ignored the Libby tragedy until the Seattle-Post Intelligencer newspaper broke the story in 1999 as A Town Left to Die.

Similarly, in Butte, even the limited EPA remedy that we have is largely due to coverage by reporters beginning with Rick Foote and Gerry OBrien in the 1980s and ending with Duncan Adams and David McCumber today. From the time of the American Revolution newspapers have been the fourth estate, informing we the people on what goes on behind the wizards curtain.

Lets hope the wizards at EPA read the newspaper.
Iowa officials will apply for around $28.2 million in federal food assistance to feed low-income Iowa children after originally saying they would not participate in the program, known as Pandemic Electronic Benefit Transfer. The federal funds will provide $120 per eligible child who received free or reduced school lunches during the school year, to pay for food during the summer.
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M.  It was never about making history for Deb Haaland, but rather making her parents proud.

She says she worked hard, putting herself through school, starting a small business to pay bills and eventually finding her way into politics  first as a campaign volunteer and later as the first Native American woman to lead a political party in New Mexico.

The rest seems like history. Haaland was sworn in as one of the first two Native American women in Congress in 2019. Two years later, she took the reins at the U.S. Interior Department  an agency whose responsibilities stretch from managing energy development to meeting the nations treaty obligations to 574 federally recognized tribes.

Haaland, the first Native American Cabinet member in the U.S., spoke in a recent interview about her tenure leading the 70,000-employee agency that oversees subsurface minerals and millions of acres of public land.

The hardest part? Balancing the interests of every single American, she said.

I might feel one way about an issue personally. It doesnt mean that thats the decision thats going to be made, said Haaland, 62, sitting in the shade of the towering cottonwood trees that line her backyard in Albuquerque. There is a process, so I am dedicated to that. I really do want to find a balance.

Criticism of Haaland has mounted in recent weeks. Environmentalists slammed her department's approval of the massive Willow oil project in Alaska, while a Republican-led U.S. House committee opened an investigation into ties between Haaland and an Indigenous group from her home state of New Mexico that advocates for halting oil and gas production on public lands.

Both Democratic and Republican members of Congress also have grilled her about her agencys $19 billion budget request. Critics say the Interior Department under her guidance failed to conduct quarterly oil and gas lease sales as required under law, doubled the time it takes to get permits, and raised royalty rates charged to energy companies to discourage domestic production and advance the administration's climate goals.

Haaland defended the Biden administrations priorities, reiterating that her department was following the law and was on track to meet the administration's goal of installing 30 gigawatts of offshore wind energy by 2030.

But even some Democratic senators who support more wind and solar energy development have questioned that timeline, saying some projects take years to be permitted and could be at risk. Democratic Sen. Martin Heinrich of New Mexico did not get a response from Haaland when asking when the first utility-scale offshore wind projects would be permitted

Haaland said she had an idea of what the Cabinet job might entail, having served in Congress and as a member of Joe Bidens platform committee when he was the Democratic presidential nominee. Many of Biden's ideals about climate change, renewable energy and conservation mirrored her own.

What gets conserved and how is at the root of a few thorny projects Haaland must navigate, from the Willow project to a drilling moratorium around a national park near northwestern New Mexico's Chaco Canyon, and now protests by Native American tribes over a proposed lithium mine in Nevada.

There isnt a one-size-fits-all for any of these things, she said. "We have to take each one individually and find the best solution that we can."

Native American tribes are not always pleased with the outcome, she acknowledged.

Every tribe, I think, is different. Their opportunities are different. Their lifestyles are different and its up to us to make sure that we get them to the table to tell us whats important to them, she said. ... And we do our best, as I said, to balance whatever the project is  using the science, using the law.

Haaland's heritage as a member of Laguna Pueblo makes her unlike any previous secretary, and she's aware of the added expectations from Indian Country as she leads an agency with a fraught and even murderous history with Native tribes.

She has worked to boost consultation efforts with tribal governments, allocate more resources to help address the alarming rate of disappearances and deaths among Native Americans, and launched an investigation into the federal government's role in boarding schools that sought to assimilate Native children over decades.

Wenona Singel, an associate professor at Michigan State University College of Law and director of the Indigenous Law & Policy Center, pointed to the stories Haaland has told about her grandparents being taken from their families when they were children. The story is similar to Singel's own family and many others.

She understands the pain and the trauma of having our ancestors be stripped of their culture and their language and their Native identity, said Singel, a member of the Little Traverse Bay Bands of Odawa Indians.  She has demonstrated a deeper understanding of our nations need to come to grips with the reality of this history and the way in which it continues to impact our communities today.

For Haaland, there's no way to disconnect from her heritage: I am who I am.

How much value every state gets from the federal government How much value every state gets from the federal government Federal dependency rankings by state Red states lead with federal dependence Higher GDP equals less federal dependence Methodology
The Lucasfilm franchise finale "Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny," in which 80-year-old Harrison Ford reprises his iconic role, was released in Chinese theaters on June 30, simultaneously with its launch in several other international film markets. This installment marks the first time the world-famous franchise was released in the Chinese market.

Indiana Jones, portrayed by Harrison Ford, in a still image from "Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny." [Photo courtesy of Walt Disney Studios]



The finale, directed by James Mangold and featuring Harrison Ford, Phoebe Waller-Bridge, Antonio Banderas, Toby Jones, and a nostalgic cameo by Karen Allen, heralds the return of the legendary hero of the beloved film series. In a new era with Indy nearing retirement, he struggles to fit into a world that seems to have outgrown him. However, when an old rival resurfaces, the archaeologist and adventurer must once more don his hat and wield his whip to prevent the ancient and potent artifact Antikythera, created by Greek philosopher Archimedes, from falling into the wrong hands.

The latest installment successfully recaptures the franchise's prior momentum, charm, thrill, and glory, introducing new elements of excitement and fun, from skeletons and creepy tombs to car-chase mayhem and new compelling characters. Despite Ford's advanced age, it effectively stirs nostalgia while also captivating viewers with tense and action-packed scenes. Furthermore, the inclusion of history-based puzzles and its stunning sci-fi MacGuffin are sure to enthrall audiences worldwide.

This legendary franchise, which has inspired countless action movies featuring treasure-hunting tomb raiders, was celebrated by Chinese celebrities and audiences at its China premiere at the Shanghai Disney Resort on June 26. Renowned writer Xu Lei, better known by his pen name Nanpai Sanshu and acclaimed for his best-selling novel series "The Grave Robbers' Chronicles," recognized Indiana Jones as one of the influences that "illuminated his writing journey."

Actor Pan Yueming, who dubbed Indiana Jones in "Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny" for its Chinese version, attends the film's premiere at the Walt Disney Grand Theatre, Shanghai Disney Resort, Shanghai, June 26, 2023. [Photo courtesy of Walt Disney Studios]

Pan Yueming, who dubbed Indiana Jones in the film's Chinese version, expressed his lifelong passion for Indiana Jones. He emphasized how the franchise has profoundly influenced his career, particularly in recent years. Pan received recognition for his leading role as Hu Bayi in popular online series such as "The Worm Valley" and "Kunlun Tomb," both adaptations of Zhang Muye's fantasy novel series "Ghost Blows Out the Light," written under the pen name Tianxia Bachang.

The swashbuckling Indiana Jones franchise, directed by Steven Spielberg and produced by George Lucas, has long been a treasured icon for generations of Chinese movie fans who have watched the series and experienced his previous adventures via VHS, DVD, or streaming platforms. "The Fugitive," featuring Harrison Ford, was the first revenue-sharing Hollywood blockbuster imported into the Chinese market in 1994, revolutionizing the Chinese film industry.
2024 WATCH: Former President Donald Trump will hold a rally in Council Bluffs this week, his first visit to Iowa since being indicted on federal charges over mishandling classified documents. Trump continues to lead 2024 presidential primary polling.

AIR QUALITY ADVISORY: Much of Iowa fell under a smoky haze last week as smoke from Canadian wildfires drifted south and worsened air quality across the state. Eastern Iowa saw the worst air quality, with the DNR issuing an advisory through Friday and recommending against prolonged outdoor activities.
So far, 2023 has been bittersweet for the Napa County hotel and lodging industry.

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From January to May this year, compared to the same months in 2022, revenue per room dropped by 10%, according to STR, a global hospitality data and analytics company. At the same time, room rates fell 3%, and occupancy decreased 7.2%.

However, when compared to the same months of 2019 before the COVID-19 pandemic, revenue per available room, or RevPAR, in 2023 is actually up 16.1%, STR reported.

Its important to remember that 2022 was a record-breaking year for many drive-to upscale leisure markets in California, said Britten Shuford, co-founder and managing partner at PRG Hospitality Group. The company owns and operates lifestyle hotels throughout California.

We thought 2022 RevPAR would be very challenging to beat given the positive and unique confluence of factors, including work from anywhere flexibility driving midweek demand, government stimulus funds in the hands of consumers and continued preference for a drive-to getaway, said Shuford.

On a relative basis, the 10% decline doesnt seem particularly concerning at this stage and represents some giveback from historic highs, he said.

Some of PRGs leisure market boutique hotels in California have experienced RevPAR declines from 15% to 30% this year, according to Shuford. He also believes the unfavorable weather conditions  with persistent winter rains after several drought-stricken years  played a big role in the challenging start to the year for many areas in California.

As for whats ahead, it is very challenging to predict, said Shuford.

We did not believe that the 2022 highs were sustainable and expected some giveback, which we are seeing. It seems everyone is waiting to see where the equilibrium will in terms of RevPAR and where rates and occupancy will normalize to.

Alan X. Reay, president of Atlas Hospitality Group, also was unsurprised at the decline.

The year 2022 brought record revenues to hotel properties, he said. There was just an unbelievable demand for rooms in resort and leisure areas like Napa Valley, Santa Barbara, Monterey and other destination areas.

There was a huge amount of pent-up demand, and that in turn drove up rates.

Ultimately, such increases arent sustainable, said Reay. Now that the demand has been absorbed, occupancy will naturally decline and hotels will then lower their rates.

All of our clients are not predicting anywhere near what they did in 2022 in terms of revenue per room, he said.

Travel demand after the pandemic was like a bubble, according to Reay. People had been cooped up during more than a year COVID-19 restrictions and almost didnt care what they paid for a hotel room, and I just have to get out was the mood. At the same time, those who had not been traveling had likely saved some money and were ready to spend.

In the Napa Valley, you are going to see this trend continue, said Reay. Travelers will always come to Napa Valley for wine, he added, but for those who just want to get away to a leisure environment, I think you are starting to see more shopping around on room rates.

This past week Linsey Gallagher, president and CEO of Visit Napa Valley, was in Europe with a Visit California delegation promoting the return of international travel to California and Napa Valley.

Gallagher has studied the yearly tourism trends.

Napa Valley has been a bright spot in Californias tourism recovery, according to Gallagher. During the pandemic, Napa Valley saw strong visitation from Southern California and Northern California drive markets, she said.

As the world opens up, its not surprising that people who were visiting Napa Valley three or four times a year during the pandemic might be taking that long-awaited European vacation instead, she acknowledged.

The number of visitors to Napa County in past years has declined, added Gallagher. Occupancy continues to be about 10% below the previous record in 2019, the last pre-COVID year.

However, even though were seeing fewer visitors, those who come are tending to stay longer and spend more, she noted.

Gallagher said she also expects to see international visitors return to California and Napa Valley. San Francisco Travel projects that while the number of international visitors coming to California will not return to 2019 levels until 2026, their spending will reach 2019 levels by 2024, she reported.

In addition, other leisure and travel destinations are seeing the same trend, said the CEO.

Monterey, Sonoma, Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo counties all posted slight decreases in occupancy, average daily room rate and RevPAR in the past calendar year, according to Gallagher.

Napa Valleys high ratio of luxury lodging (50% of the local total, compared with 11% statewide) combined with a small supply (just 5,700 hotel rooms), means that not only does our destination continue to command a higher (average daily rate) overall, but that revenue for our lodging partners is also higher.

Gallagher said more predictable visitation trends are returning.

The years 2020 to 2022 are anomalies because of the COVID-19 pandemic, she said. In fact, California didnt lift its state of emergency until early 2023 and international travel had been restricted in several countries.

As such, we are benchmarking 2023 data to 2019, which was the last year we saw typical travel patterns, and we are happy to say that we are returning to business as usual, said Gallagher.

2019 was a record high year for Napa Valley, and we wish to set the pace sustainable tourism growth, for the health of our community and this beautiful place we call home, she said.

Visit California reported similar trends statewide.

According to that agency, in 2022, California travel spending grew to $134.4 billion, a 31.7% increase from the prior year. However, since the peak of 2019, travel spending has declined by 7.2%.

The California travel industry supported about 1.09 million jobs in 2022, a 16.8% increase from the prior year. Yet, when compared to 2019, travel industry employment across the state has shrunk by 7.3%.

Travel-generated state and local tax revenue increased to $11.9 billion in California in 2022, an increase of 21.6% from the prior year. Compared to 2019, travel-generated tax revenue has fallen by 3%.

Photos: 'SAVOR After Hours' blends cabaret with fine wines SAVOR After Hours SAVOR After Hours SAVOR After Hours SAVOR After Hours SAVOR After Hours SAVOR After Hours SAVOR After Hours SAVOR After Hours SAVOR After Hours SAVOR After Hours SAVOR After Hours SAVOR After Hours SAVOR After Hours SAVOR After Hours SAVOR After Hours SAVOR After Hours SAVOR After Hours
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China has urged the Netherlands not to abuse export control measures regarding semiconductor products, a spokesperson with China's Ministry of Commerce said Saturday.

The spokesperson made the remarks in response to a media question that the Dutch government has announced restrictions on exports of some semiconductor equipment, including lithography machines.

The spokesperson said the two countries communicated frequently and at various levels on the topic. But the Dutch side still included relevant semiconductor equipment in the new restrictions, with which China expressed dissatisfaction.

In recent years, to safeguard its global hegemony, the United States has continuously generalized the concept of national security, abused export control measures, and even sacrificed the interests of its allies, coerced and wooed other countries to suppress and contain China's semiconductors, and artificially promoted industrial decoupling and chain breaking, said the spokesperson.

Such moves seriously damaged the development of the global semiconductor industry, and China firmly opposes this.

The spokesperson said that the Dutch side should proceed from safeguarding international economic and trade rules and the overall situation of Sino-Dutch economic and trade cooperation. They should respect market principles and the spirit of the contract and avoid relevant measures hindering the regular cooperation and development of the semiconductor industry of the two countries.

China urges the Dutch side to earnestly safeguard the common interests of Chinese and Dutch enterprises and both sides, and maintain the stability of the global semiconductor industry chain and supply chain, the spokesperson added.




Zulu king undergoes tests after death of adviser

Misuzulu Zulu, 48, ascended the throne last year after the death of his father. File photo: AFP

South Africa's Zulu king, head of the country's most influential traditional monarchy, has undergone "thorough" medical examinations following the sudden death of a close adviser, a spokesman said Sunday, amid suspicions he was poisoned.



The king, who was visiting neighbouring Eswatini, "underwent precautionary and thorough medical exams in a context of Covid and after the sudden death of his close adviser," Douglas Xaba, explained Prince Africa Zulu, contacted by telephone by AFP.



Misuzulu Zulu, 48, ascended the throne last year after the death of his father, Goodwill Zwelithini, amid a bitter feud over the royal succession.



Overnight on Saturday, the influential Zulu prime minister, Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi, said in a press release that the monarch had been hospitalised in Eswatini after falling ill.



The king believes he was being poisoned, after the sudden and unexpected death of one of his close advisers on Saturday, he said.



Xaba "passed on quite suddenly and that there are suspicions that he was poisoned", added Buthelezi.



The royal spokesman on Sunday assured that the Zulu king, also known as Misuzulu kaZwelithini, was "in perfect health and is not currently admitted to any hospital".



The spokesman criticised what he said was an "orchestrated agenda" to circulate "baseless claims of His Majesty's ill health".



Several police sources in Eswatini confirmed to AFP that there was heavy security deployed at a private hospital close to the country's royal residence.



Although the title of king of the Zulu nation does not bestow executive power, the monarchs wield great moral influence over more than 11 million Zulus, who make up nearly a fifth of South Africa's population of 60 million people.



King Zwelithini, who died after more than 50 years in charge, left six wives and at least 28 children.



Misuzulu is the first son of Zwelithini's third wife, who he designated as regent in his will.



The queen however died suddenly a month after Zwelithini, leaving a will naming Misuzulu as the next king -- a development that did not go down well with other family members.



The current king preferred treatment in Eswatini because "his parents had both received treatment in South Africa and subsequently died", said Buthelezi.



Last September, another counsellor of the Zulu king was shot dead in mysterious circumstances on the sidelines of a traditional ceremony. (AFP)
'1,000-Lb. Sisters' star Tammy Slaton is remembering her husband Caleb Willingham after telling PEOPLE about his death at the age of 40. She paid a touching tribute to Willingham on Instagram, sharing a collection of photos of the two in happier times. Slaton captioned the post "Rip sweet angel you will forever be missed and loved so much thank you Caleb for showing me real love and happiness." https://www.instagram.com/p/CuKLr86OIxq/ In the photos, Slaton posed behind Willingham with her arms around his neck, while he held her hands in his. Willingham sat in a wheelchair, wearing a dark blue sweatshirt and glasses with a breathing tube visible around his nose. Slaton wore a matching blue camouflage print sweatshirt, a breathing tube, and her trademark glasses. As a decorated Christmas tree could be seen in the background, the photos appeared to have been taken during the Christmas season. Slaton also shared a photo of herself and her husband smiling at the camera after eating lunch together at a table clothed in a snowman. In a statement to PEOPLE, the reality star confirmed Willingham's death, writing, " I am devastated to share the news of my husband's passing. He was my best friend and I loved him dearly. When I met Caleb he became my guardian angel and now he really is watching over me. Our families appreciate everyone's sympathy and ask that you respect our privacy at this time." In 2022, Slaton and Willingham met at the Windsor Lane Rehabilitation Centre in Gibsonburg, Ohio. He proposed twice in October and November. The couple decided to marry at the rehab centre. Billy, their home care nurse and family friend, officiated the small celebration, which was attended by only 30 friends and family members. (ANI)
According to a study presented at the Endocrine Society's annual meeting in Chicago, the percentage of adults suffering from metabolic-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD), the leading cause of liver disease worldwide, is increasing. The study discovered that Mexican Americans consistently had the highest percentage of MAFLD, particularly in 2018, despite the fact that the prevalence of increase was higher among Whites. MAFLD, formerly known as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), is quickly becoming the most common reason for a liver transplant. It raises the risk of cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, and a common form of liver cancer. MAFLD, if left untreated, can lead to liver cancer and liver failure. "MAFLD affects Hispanics at a higher prevalence relative to Blacks and Whites. This racial/ethnic disparity is a public health concern," said researcher Theodore C. Friedman, M.D., PhD, Chair of the Department of Internal Medicine at Charles R. Drew University of Medicine & Science in Los Angeles, Calif, adding, "Overall, the increase in MAFLD is concerning, as this condition can lead to liver failure and cardiovascular diseases and has an important health disparity."The researchers analysed data for 32,726 participants from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) from 1988 to 2018. "We found that overall, both MAFLD and obesity increased with time, with the increase in MAFLD greater than the increase in obesity," Friedman said. The study's first author Magda Shaheen, M.D., PhD, M.P.H., M.S., of Charles R. Drew University of Medicine & Science, said, "The prevalence of MAFLD increased faster than the prevalence of obesity, suggesting that the increase in the other risk factors such as diabetes and hypertension may also contribute to the increase in the prevalence of MAFLD."Among Mexican Americans, the per cent of MAFLD was higher at all times than the overall population. "In summary, MAFLD is increasing with time and more efforts are needed to control this epidemic," Shaheen said. (ANI)
Former Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister and BJP leader Jairam Thakur welcomed Himachal Pradesh PWD Minister Vikramaditya Singh's support to the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) saying that he listened to his conscience and expressed it. "If Vikramaditya Singh has said this, it means that he listened to his conscience and expressed it," Thakur said adding that a lot of people from different political parties and ideologies support the UCC. "When talks are held about UCC, the inner voices of a lot of people from different political parties and ideologies tell them that if this decision will be taken, it will be in the interest of the nation and society. We have always demanded that the law should be the same for all," he said. In a deviation from the Congress' stand on UCC, Himachal Pradesh PWD Minister Vikramaditya Singh said that the party will be supporting UCC whenever it comes and that the Congress has always contributed towards taking unity and integrity forward. "We have said that whenever Uniform Civil Code comes, we will support it. Congress party has always contributed towards taking unity and integrity forward," he said. Vikramaditya Singh is the son of state Congress chief Pratibha Singh and the late Virbhadra Singh, six-time Chief Minister of the hill state. Vikramaditya Singh had however said slammed the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of starting a new debate to mislead people. "Manipur has been burning for over a month and is on the verge of civil war. But no action has been taken against the Chief Minister. BJP doesn't speak of the real burning issues in the country and starts a new debate to mislead people," he said. Meanwhile, the Congress Parliamentary Strategy Group will hold a meeting on Saturday at former All India Congress Committee (AICC) chief Sonia Gandhi's residence at 10, Janpath in New Delhi, ahead of a discussion by the Parliamentary Standing Committee on the UCC on July 3. (ANI)
As per a statement, during the interaction, the governor promised him all the assistance needed by the family.

In the fresh violence ahead of the Panchayat Polls, clashes had broken out between TMC and Bharatiya Janata Party workers in North Bengal's Dinhata Cooch recently, resulting in the death of one person.

The deceased was identified as Babu Haque, a TMC worker.

Ahead of the Panchayat elections, scheduled to be held on July 8, the state witnessed continuous clashes in various parts of the state, including an outbreak of violence at the Block Development Office in Birbhum's Ahmadpur, where crude bombs were reportedly thrown. Also, a TMC worker was beaten to death in the Malda district.

The election will be held in a single phase, with vote counting scheduled for July 11. Panchayat polls in West Bengal will witness a fierce contest between the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the ruling Trinamool Congress as they will be seen as a litmus test ahead of the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. (ANI)
Xi Jinping, general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, has called for more achievements in the Party's theoretical innovation.

Presiding over a group study session of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee on Friday, Xi said the understanding of the Party's theoretical innovation must be continuously deepened.

It is the solemn historical responsibility of today's Chinese Communists to open new frontiers in adapting Marxism to the Chinese context and the needs of the times, Xi said.

The fundamental reason why the CPC has been able to lead the people to accomplish arduous tasks, which were inconceivable for any other political force in China, is that it has mastered the scientific theory of Marxism and constantly promoted theoretical innovation in light of new realities, Xi said.

At the fundamental level, the success of the CPC and socialism with Chinese characteristics should be attributed to the fact that Marxism works, particularly when it is adapted to the Chinese context and the needs of the times, he noted.

The soul of Marxism and the root of China's fine traditional culture must never be abandoned, as doing so would lead to catastrophic mistakes, Xi said.

It is crucial to deeply integrate the remarkable spirit and profound wisdom of the Chinese nation into Marxism in order to achieve new theoretical advantages and scale new intellectual heights, he said.

Xi highlighted the importance of drawing inspiration, with an open mind, from all of human civilization's outstanding achievements.

It is important to provide timely and well-founded answers to new questions of the times, Xi said.

Noting that human society is confronted with a number of common issues that demand urgent action, Xi said China is also facing new issues across various fields, ranging from reform, development, stability, domestic and foreign affairs, and national defense to the running of the Party, state and military, all of which require theoretical and practical solutions.

The development of the Thought on Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era involves a continuous process of enrichment, expansion, systematization and crystallization into academic theories, he said.

Xi emphasized the importance of education and guidance to enable the whole Party and the Chinese people to better understand the theory of the Thought on Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era.

He further underscored the significance of deriving theoretical innovation from the innovative contributions of the people, saying that the creative practices of the people serve as an inexhaustible source for innovation in Marxist theory.

Achievements in adapting Marxism to the Chinese context and the needs of the times represent a crystallization of the practical experience and collective wisdom of the Party and the people, he added.

It is essential to follow the mass line in order to further promote the Party's theoretical innovation, Xi said.




The Bharatiya Janata Party, on Saturday, wrote to the state election commission complaining about the violation of the Model Code of Conduct by the Trinamool Congress ahead of the Panchayat elections in West Bengal. Talking about the Sorasori Mukhyamantri program, which was initiated by the state government to solve people's grievances by establishing direct contact between the person and the Chief Minister via telephone, it said, "Sarasori Mukhyamantri 9130791307, which is the landing number for all calls is the same as the one used by the TMC for their program 'Didi ke bolo'. Despite our giving all evidence, we were only told that the Chief Secretary has confirmed that the said number now belongs to the government. We disputed that and asked for any written communication from the government which has not been furnished yet". Further, the letter complained about the posting of 10 officers of the West Bengal Police without any authorisation from the Election Commission, reportedly. "Posting of 10 officers of the West Bengal Police, without any authorisation from the commission. Despite our bringing this to your attention, no action has been taken from your end", the letter read. Additionally, the Bharatiya Janata Party also complained about the alleged use of cars or pilot escorts with beacons by the state government ministers and the distribution of cash by the TMC Jalpaiguri Zila Parishad candidate. It also added, "Transfer of officers in Purulia district. Our request for sharing the communication exchange between the government and the commission is yet to be complied". The Bengal Panchayat election is scheduled to be held on July 8 and the counting will be done on July 11. (ANI)
Tipraha Indigenous Progressive Regional Alliance (TIPRA Motha) chief Pradyot Bikram Manikya Deb Barma along with party leaders met Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Saturday and urged him to bring a "Constitutional solution" to its demand for "Greater Tipraland". "We met with the Union Home Minister Amit Shah on a core demand for greater Tipraland, constitutional solution for the greater Tipraland. We met him along with other leaders, and we had a discussion," said the TIPRA Motha Party chief. Barman added that his party want the indigenous people of Tripura to have a life of dignity. "We stuck to our point that we want the indigenous people of Tripura to have a life of dignity--a life where they can have rights over their own land and rights for the next generation. So we spoke on those issues, and we have been very clear that we are not interested in anything else," he added. Deb Barma further said that the Union Home Minister has assured him that the central government would soon start the process of discussions on the demands. (ANI)
He added that the PM's US tour has benefited Gujarat the most, as an MoU was signed between the Gujarat Government and the American company Micron Technology for semiconductors.

"During the nine years of PM Modi's government, the country has significantly progressed in all sectors. From his (PM's) US tour, Gujarat has the maximum benefit, as we signed an MOU with American company Micron Technology for semiconductors. Hopefully, we will organise a foundation stone laying ceremony," Gujarat CM Bhupendra Patel.

A significant investment in India by Micron Technology was announced by the President of the United States, Joe Biden, during his meeting with the Prime Minister in the US recently. This investment aims to boost India's semiconductor Program through the establishment of a semiconductor assembly, test, marking, and packaging (ATMP) facility in the country.

After that, an MoU was signed on June 29 between the Government of Gujarat and Micron Technology, America's largest semiconductor memory IDM (Integrated Device Manufacturer).

Under this MoU, Micron Technology will invest USD 2.5 billion, i.e., more than INR 22,500 crore, to establish an Assembly and testing facility in Gujarat's Sanand, where it will focus on transforming wafers into ball grid array (BGA) integrated circuit packages, memory modules, and solid-state drives.

The MoU was signed between the Government of Gujarat and Micron Technology, America's largest semiconductor memory IDM (Integrated Device Manufacturer).

The MoU was signed in the presence of Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel and Union Minister for Railways, Communications, Electronics and Information Technology, Ashwini Vaishnaw. (ANI)
Delhi Police checked the police personnel posted on the night picket, checked the security arrangements, and interrogated several vehicles at the West District Janakpuri night picket as well, said the Police.

Surprise visits by Delhi Police will continue, said a police officer.

"Delhi Police is checking the barricading which is done at night to check its vigilance. We are seeing where the barricades have been installed and where the checking is being done. Today checking is being done in Mangolpuri, including Sultanpuri and many other areas of Delhi," said Special CP Sagar Preet Hooda.

This came after a rise in criminal activities in Delhi.

Last week, in a shocking broad daylight robbery near Pragati Maidan Rs 2 lakh was allegedly robbed from a delivery agent and his associate at gunpoint.

A 28-year-old woman was attacked with a sharp object on her face in Delhi's Kalkaji, police said last Sunday.

A 19-year-old youth was stabbed, and his cousin sustained injuries allegedly after being attacked by a man in Delhi's Brijpuri area last Friday.

Two sisters were allegedly shot dead in Delhi's Ambedkar Basti area, and a 21 year-old-man was murdered in the Mangolpuri area last month.

A 19-year-old student was also stabbed to death outside the Delhi South campus recently. (ANI)
"The President has summoned the Rajya Sabha to meet on Thursday, 20th July 2023 and to conclude on Friday, 11th August 2023," it said.

Earlier on Saturday, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Pralhad Joshi announced that the monsoon session of Parliament will begin on July 20.

The session is slated to continue till August 11, he said.

"Monsoon Session, 2023 of Parliament will commence from 20th July and continue till 11th August. Urge all parties to contribute towards productive discussions on Legislative Business and other items during the Monsoon Session," Joshi tweeted yesterday.

He said that there will be a total of 17 sittings in this session lasting 23 days.

"I appeal to all parties to contribute constructively to the legislative and other business of Parliament during the session," the union minister said.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the new Parliament building on May 28.

The government is expected to have significant legislative agenda for the session.

Opposition parties are also gearing up to take on the government on a host of issues. (ANI)
Congress demanded the resignation of Chief Minister N Biren Singh over the law and order situation in the conflict-ridden state and questioned Prime Minister Narendra Modi's silence over the situation in Manipur. "From the Congress party, we demand that the resignation of the CM of Manipur should be taken as soon as possible," Jairam Ramesh told reporters on Saturday. He said that Home Minister Amit Shah also visited strife-torn Manipur, but, "no positive effect was seen from it". "The PM is silent for the last sixty days and we are repeatedly demanding that the Prime Minister should break his silence..", Ramesh, a senior Congress leader, said. The CM has come under repeated attack from the opposition, particularly the Congress since violence broke out on May 3 in the BJP-ruled state. Manipur has witnessed ethnic violence for nearly two months. Congress and some groups in the state have demanded Biren Singh's resignation. Manipur CM N Biren Singh on Friday said he will not resign from his post "at this crucial juncture" amid the growing calls for his resignation. Amit Shah's four-day visit to the state was followed by an all-party meeting chaired by him in June to restore peace in the state. Ethnic clashes broke out in the State nearly two months ago on May 3 after clashes erupted during a rally organised by the All Tribal Students Union (ATSU) to protest against the demand for the inclusion of Meiteis in the list of Scheduled Tribes (STs). This comes a day after the Congress Parliamentary Party, strategy group meeting, held on Saturday asked the PM, among other things to break his silence on the issue. On the Uniform Civil Code, the Congress leader said, the party had already made its stand clear on June 15. He said, "Since nothing new had come during the last 15 days on the matter, the party had nothing to add to it as of now." The Parliamentary Standing Committee on Personnel, Public Grievances, Law and Justice has called a meeting on the UCC on July 3 during which it said it will hear the views of stakeholders. (ANI)
Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) chief Sharad Pawar expressed grief over frequent accidents on the Samruddhi-Mahamarg Expressway and said that a team of experts should be constituted to find the reason behind such incidents. While addressing a press conference in Pune on Saturday, Pawar said, "It's unfortunate that we have witnessed frequent accidents on this highway for the last few months. A team of experts should be constituted to find the reasons for the accidents and they should study all the roads in the country to avoid accidents". He said that he travelled on the highway and met the locals. He said that the locals while sharing their experience, said that the highway may not be planned in a scientific way due to which frequent accidents are happening. "I also travelled on this highway and met locals. I asked them about their experience of this highway and they said its planning might not have been done in a scientific way due to which they are witnessing frequent accidents on it," the NCP chief said. He said, "The locals had told me that if someone loses their life in an accident on the new road, then villagers say that the deceased person has become 'Devendra-wasi' (indirectly referring to Deputy CM Devendra Fadnavis) and blame those who were involved in making decisions for planning and making the highway. Pawar further said that it feels sad to witness such repeated accidents and these things will not resolve by just proving compensation, a team of experts should be constituted. "I feel sad about these repeated accidents. After an accident, the state government declares Rs 5 lakh compensation to the family of the deceased but these problems are not going to resolve with this. A team of experts should be constituted to find the reasons for the accidents and they should study all the roads in the country to avoid accidents", Pawar said. The accident took place at around 1:30 am on Saturday in which 25 passengers of a private bus died after the vehicle caught fire on the Samruddhi-Mahamarg Expressway in Maharashtra's Buldhana. According to police, a total of 33 people were travelling in the bus which was on its way to Pune. Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde and Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis visited the accident site and met the injured at the Buldhana Civil Hospital. Fadnavis ruled out road construction on the Samruddhi-Mahamarg Expressway as the cause of the accident. (ANI)
Utilising the state-of-the-art facility, the team comprising Indian Naval Divers and Marine Commandos underwent recovery training of crew modules in varied sea conditions, read the read Ministry of Defence press release.

The two weeks training capsule covered a brief on the conduct of the mission, actions to be taken during medical exigencies and familiarisation with different aircraft and their rescue equipment.

The training also validated the SOPs formulated jointly by the Indian Navy and ISRO. On the concluding day, Dr Mohan M, Director of Human Space Flight Centre, ISRO witnessed the recovery demonstration and interacted with the team, added the release.

The team trained at WSTF will now be involved in the recovery of test launches planned by ISRO in the forthcoming months.

The Recovery training is planned in incremental phases starting from unmanned recovery to manned recovery training in the harbour and open sea conditions.

The recovery operations were led by the Indian Navy in coordination with other government agencies, added the release.

Earlier, the Crew Module Recovery Model was formally handed over to Indian Navy at its state-of-the-art Water Survival Training Facility (WSTF) at INS Garuda, Kochi.

The Indian Navy will also assist ISRO by undertaking a series of trials to fine-tune the Standard Operating Procedures for training the crew and recovery teams of Gaganyaan. (ANI)
The All India Christian Churches Council (AICCC), on Sunday, held a massive protest at the Chennai Collector Office in Parrys, Chennai, to take security measures to protect Churches that were attacked in the Manipur violence. National President-Founder of the AICCC, Bishop B Mohandas headed the protest. Additionally, Christian Community National High-level leaders based in the Taluk district of Tamil Nadu along with the circle community members participated in the protest wearing black clothes. More than 400 members of various Christian organisations participated in the protest holding a board that said, "Save Manipur Christians and Churches". "We Christian community peoples gathered here to condemn the current situation in Manipur in support of our community peoples. Central Government should take necessary action immediately to save the Christian peoples", said Winson, AICCC President, South Chennai. Adding further, Winson said, "It has been more than 5 weeks since prayers were offered at the churches in Manipur. They are closed and some of them have been damaged". Additionally, the AICCC president urged the central government to take action to protect the Christian community located in Manipur. "Even after this if the Central Government does not take any action to save the Christian community people, then they will have to face a huge protest across Tamil Nadu", said Winson. He added, "AICCC will also gather all the Christian communities and organisations and protest across the country as well". Significantly, in Manipur, violence broke out in May this year owing to the High Court's direction to include the Meite community in Scheduled Tribes (ST). The Meiteis are a majority community in the state and they are mainly located around the capital Imphal and nearby areas. Due to their increased population and thereby, increased land requirements, they sought the status of ST. Only STs can buy land in the hilly areas. The Meiteis, therefore, sought ST status to buy land in the hilly areas too. Expressing disappointment over the same, the minority communities including the Naga and Kukis revolted against the HC's direction which later turned into massive violence. (ANI)
As the debate grows over whether India needs a Uniform Civil Code (UCC), Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Sunday said that soon the UCC expert committee examining the subject will submit the draft. "As per the promise made to the state's people, today on June 30, the committee formed to prepare the draft of the Uniform Civil Code has completed its work. Soon Uniform Civil Code will be implemented in Devbhoomi Uttarakhand. Jai Hind, Jai Uttarakhand!" he tweeted. The UCC calls for the formulation of one law for India, which would be applicable to all religious communities in matters such as marriage, divorce, inheritance, and adoption. "It's been over a year since the UCC Committee has been functioning. They have talked to more than 2,35,000 people and listed their views. They have also talked to different organizations from various regions, cultural outfits, and other stakeholders. Many intellectuals in the society have also given their opinions. The UCC committee has complied with all the comments and opinions in the draft. The Committee informed us on June 30 that they had completed the draft. They will soon submit the final draft. After this, it will be put through for legal review and then we will move towards implementation", CM Dhami added further. Speaking to the media, CM Pushkar Singh Dhami said, "It's provision has been made in Article 44 of the Indian Constitution and we are not going to change someone's ongoing custom. The drafting committee has spoken to people across the country seeking suggestions from stakeholders and intellectuals over the past year." It would help end gender discrimination on religious grounds and strengthen the secular fabric of the nation. It will protect the vulnerable sections of society. Women have been denied via personal laws in the name of socio-cultural-religious traditions. Therefore UCC could bring all communities together to ensure women the right to a dignified life and control over their life. Further talking about his meeting with Defence Minister on developmental projects related to national security Dhami said, "Yesterday, I had a meeting with Defence Minister Rajnath Singh. Pithoragarh has a landing strip and for its extension, our cabinet decided to hand over this to the defence." "Just like this, Dharchula and Joshimath also have military helipads which are being operated by the military, but at times the state also needs them, so to seek permission I have words with the defence minister. I also thanked the Defence Minister for opening a CDS canteen and an Ex-Servicemen Contributory Health Scheme centre in Rudraprayag, which has more than 30,000 soldiers," Dhami added. Expansion of Dehradun's Jollygrant airport is also being done and for that 21-acre land is of NTRO's land is being used, so we decided to give land to NTRO at some other place. (ANI)
Hong Kong: HK shares Saudi Arabia's vision

Chief Executive John Lee

It is my great privilege to welcome, on behalf of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, His Excellency Abdullah Alswaha, Minister of Communications & Information Technology of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

I also warmly welcome the high-profile business delegation visiting Hong Kong from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

My first visit to Riyadh five months ago yielded rewarding achievements for our two economies. It also brought me a lot of memorable moments. Thank you, Your Excellency, you are a great friend.

One of those moments was my attendance at the LEAP 2023 technology conference. There, I met with His Excellency for the first time. We talked about the tremendous opportunities of collaboration in innovation and technology between the two places. I felt a deep sense of warmth and friendship at the meeting in Riyadh.

And now, less than five months later, His Excellency is here with us in Hong Kong, here to continue our communication, to strengthen our friendship, and to explore the expanding opportunities between our two economies - in business, investment and much more.

This is indeed an opportune time for us to work together on furthering co-operation. Yesterday, we celebrated the 26th anniversary of the establishment of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of the People's Republic of China. That also marked the 26th anniversary of the successful implementation of the "one country, two systems" principle in Hong Kong.

Under the auspices of "one country, two systems", Hong Kong is bestowed with the unparalleled advantage of having the strong support of national strategies, while maintaining seamless connections with the world. It enables us to continue to be one of the world's freest economies with a free flow of information and capital, buttressed by the rule of law. We champion free trade and collaboration, and are committed to promoting high-quality development.

From the outset, the current term of the Hong Kong SAR Government - now a year and a day running - has put a priority on revitalising our relations with Saudi Arabia - and the Middle East in general.

That is why in February, as I mentioned earlier, I led a high-level business delegation to Saudi Arabia. I wanted to see first-hand, the large-scale infrastructure projects being implemented in Saudi Arabia under the Belt & Road Initiative, a key national strategy launched personally by President Xi Jinping 10 years ago.

I wanted too, to better appreciate Vision 2030, Saudi Arabia's dynamic blueprint for the future, designed to transform the country into a global economic powerhouse, one built on diversity, sustainability, innovation and technology.

We have certainly come a good long way in the past five months. During our stay in Saudi Arabia, Hong Kong businesses and institutions signed six memoranda of understanding and letters of intent with Saudi organisations.

Since then, a number of Hong Kong companies have followed up with Saudi businesses, exploring opportunities in such sectors as banking, investing and architecture.

Saudi Arabia's Future Investment Initiative Institute or the FII Institute, which has been organising its very successful annual global gatherings in Riyadh, will host its first PRIORITY Asia Summit, right here in Hong Kong this December. I very much look forward to that and to its great success.

There is more, I am pleased to say. eWTP Arabia Capital, in concert with the newly launched Saudi Arabia-China Entrepreneurs Association, is setting up an office in Hong Kong.

More good news: Hong Kong's annual Belt & Road Summit will celebrate the 10th anniversary of the Belt & Road Initiative in September. This year, the summit will feature a dedicated Middle East Forum for the very first time. That will present manifold opportunities for Belt & Road companies and investors to talk business with their Saudi and Middle Eastern counterparts.

Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 is built on innovation and technology (I&T). Hong Kong shares that vision. We released our I&T Development Blueprint six months ago. It outlines Hong Kong's commitment to new industrialisation and our rise as an international I&T centre in the years ahead.

The blueprint charts Hong Kong's I&T development in four broad directions. They include integrating into the overall development of our country and consolidating our role as a bridge connecting the Mainland and the world.

We are well on our way to doing just that. Our InnoHK Research Clusters at the Science Park, which is where we are now, target healthcare technologies, AI and robotics, and they encourage I&T cooperation on a global level.

Hong Kong now boasts some 4,000 startups and over 10 unicorns. We ranked first in Asia, and second globally, among the top emerging startup ecosystems in the Global Startup Ecosystem Report 2023.

We are also boosting technology collaboration between Hong Kong and our fellow cities in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, the cluster-city development integrating Hong Kong, Macau and nine cities in Guangdong province. The Greater Bay Area (GBA) unites some 86 million consumers and a gross domestic product of about US$1.7 trillion.

The GBA market presents boundless opportunities for tech companies, startups and talent. And I welcome our friends from Saudi Arabia and the Middle East to join us in building an innovative future, right here in Hong Kong.

Chief Executive John Lee gave these remarks at the "One Gateway Shared Vision - Hong Kong Special Administrative Region x Kingdom of Saudi Arabia" Gala Dinner on July 2.

This story has been published on: 2023-07-02. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article.
Delhi Public Works Department (PWD) Minister Atishi wrote to Lieutenant Governor of Delhi VK Saxena to take strict action against the officers guilty of negligence in two mishaps, the drowning of an auto-driver in Harsh Vihar and electrocution of a construction worker at LNJP hospital. In the last two days, two tragic incidents have come to the fore in Delhi. In the first accident, two days ago in Harsh Nagar, the driver of an auto fell into a pothole filled with water and died. The reason for this accident has been the negligence of the PWD officers. The second incident is that of LNJP Hospital, where a worker died due to electrocution during construction work on Sunday. The letter written to LG VK Saxena said, "Today (Sunday), two days have passed since the death of the auto driver due to the negligence of the officers, but any action is yet to be taken in this matter." "Services in Delhi have been in the hands of the Lieutenant Governor of Delhi for the last 8 years. But no action has been taken against any officer for wrongdoing or negligence," the letter said further. However, a day ago, on Saturday, the AAP government promised to take action after an auto driver fell into an uncovered pothole and lost his life. After an autorickshaw driver fell into an undercovered pothole at a flooded Harsh Vihar in the national capital, following heavy monsoon showers, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government on Saturday issued a statement saying it had taken due cognisance of the incident. "The responsibility to maintain these roads, as per prescribed safety standards, lies with the contractor assigned to the road. The government will enquire into the laxity on the part of the contractor and take appropriate action," read a statement issued by the Public Works Department (PWD). The PWD minister also ordered the strictest possible action against officials found guilty in connection with the incident. On Sunday, a labourer identified as Sujeet Kumar, involved in the construction of a building at Delhi's LNJP Hospital, was electrocuted to death. The place of incident was inspected by Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) and Crime team. Delhi Police said that further investigation is underway. As an immediate measure, the Delhi Government said it would enforce a set of upgraded safety norms on priority, which will help strengthen state roads and avoid such mishaps. Earlier, on Thursday night, an autorickshaw driver died after his auto fell into a pothole on a flooded street in Delhi's Harsh Vihar area, police said. The police received a call around 3.30 am on Friday that a man had died after his autorickshaw fell into a pothole. On reaching the spot, a police team found the Traffic-sign recognition (TSR) and the front wheel of the auto-rickshaw in the pothole. (ANI)
Rahul Kanal who joined the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena on Saturday said that he would leave politics if his involvement in Sushant Singh Rajput and Disha Salian's death is proven. "I have requested CM Eknath Shinde to conduct a detailed investigation in Sushant Singh Rajput and Disha Salian's murder case. Many people have been raising questions if I joined Shiv Sena (Shinde faction) because I was involved in the murder. So, I have requested the CM to do a thorough investigation into the case and answer those people. And if my name comes up in it (involvement in the murder) I am ready to leave politics," Rahul Kanal told the reporters on Saturday. Notably, Sushant Singh Rajput was found dead on June 14 in 2020 in his Bandra apartment. The actor was found hanging from the ceiling fan. He was 34 at the time of death. On July 1, Rahul Kanal joined Shiv Sena (Shinde faction). However, he was one of the close aides of Aaditya Thackeray. Kanal was formally inducted into the Shiv Sena in the presence of Maharashtra Chief Minister Shinde. Earlier, while confirming his switch to the Shinde Sena, Kanal defended the move claiming that the Sena (UBT) chief and former CM, Uddhav Thackeray, takes decisions unilaterally at the behest of a few people and, on their advice. "There is a thing called self-respect...tomorrow more than 1000 workers will join the Shinde group along with me," Rahul told ANI on Friday. Last year, the undivided Shiv Sena, led by Uddhav, was splintered into two factions after Shinde, a minister in the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) government formerly, triggered a rebellion in the ranks. With several sitting MLAs jumping ship and switching to the rival front as it camped at a hotel in Assam, the MVA government was reduced to a minority. The government eventually fell after Uddhav lost a test of strength in the Maharashtra Assembly and the Shinde faction, with the support of the BJP, came to power. While speculations swirled around Devendra Fadnavis returning as CM, the BJP stumped one and all after announcing Shinde as the new chief minister. Even as the Uddhav-led faction moved the Supreme Court challenging the change of guard in Maharashtra, the Election Commission (EC) allocated the name 'Shiv Sena' the official 'bow and arrow' symbol to the Shinde faction. (ANI)
The Uttar Pradesh government filed a status report in the Supreme Court in connection with Atiq Ahmed's death case and apprised the top court that police reforms and modernisation measures are underway and handcuffing instructions issued to prevent the easy escape of hardened criminals. The state of Uttar Pradesh has informed the Supreme Court that its police department has undergone a comprehensive modernization process. This includes the acquisition of medium-sized prison vans, drones, body-worn cameras, post-mortem kits, full-body protectors for women, radio equipment, security equipment, ATS-related equipment, and various vehicles. These acquisitions have been made possible through grants approved by both the Government of India and the Government of Uttar Pradesh. The status report has been filed by Uttar Pradesh pursuant to SC's order on a petition filed by advocate Vishal Tiwari seeking to constitute an Independent Expert Committee under the Chairmanship of a Former Supreme Court judge to inquire into the killing of Atiq and Ashraf amid police presence. The State informed the apex court that a chargesheet has been filed in connection with the matter concerned. The state govt has given instructions to follow the witness protection scheme. Handcuffing instructions have also been issued to prevent the easy escape of hardened criminals, the state govt informed the top court. UP government also informed the SC that the state is taking all steps to implement the letter and spirit of Justice (Retd.) BS Chauhan's recommendations in the Commission of Inquiry Report. It also said that the government is looking into security lapses, leaving no stone unturned. The state in the report that it is also inquiring into security lapses that may have led to the 3 attackers getting through the police cordon and firing at Atiq Ahmed and Ashraf. On the basis of prima facie reports from the relevant ACPS, 4 of the police officers present on the scene and the SHO of PS Shahganj, under whose jurisdiction the incident took place, have been suspended pending initiation of disciplinary proceedings. The state government submitted that it is leaving no stone unturned in ensuring a thorough, impartial and timely investigation into the deaths of Atiq Ahmed and his brother Khalid Azim alias Ashraf on April 15. UP govt has also invited suggestions from the media, police authorities, medical experts etc, to make recommendations to prevent the recurrence of such incidents. The state govt also apprised the court about the incident and said that as soon as the police team had taken a few steps into the hospital premises, the crowd of media personnel broke through the security cordon and accosted the team to get statements of the accused. "The accused Atiq and Ashraf stopped and started speaking with the media persons. Suddenly, two of the purported media persons in the crowd dropped their respective cameras and mics, took out state-of-the-art semi-automatic weapons and started firing at the accused a third purported media person also joined in the firing, and before anyone could react, all 3 persons, evidently disguised as media persons, had shot Atiq Ahmed and Ashraf, who collapsed on the spot. The whole incident lasted around 9 to 10 seconds only," the UP govt said in its status report. UP government also apprised the top court about the various reforms initiated by them including the deputation of a Special Task Force to take action against crimes by organized criminals and the formed an Anti-Land Mafia Task Force in all districts which is being monitored through the portal. Effective action is being taken against 66 mafia criminals of the state by identifying them at the Uttar Pradesh government and police headquarters level, the state government said. (ANI)
Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Sunday urged workers of the Apna Dal, an ally of the BJP, to help the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) win all 80 Lok Sabha seats in Uttar Pradesh, enabling Prime Minister Narendra Modi to return to the country's highest office for a third, straight term in 2024. Shah said the BJP and the Apna Dal have fought and won four elections together. Speaking at the 'Jan-Swabhiman Divas' event, which was organised at Lucknow's Indira Gandhi Pratishthan on Sunday to mark the 74th birth anniversary of Apna Dal founder Sonelal Patel, Shah said the BJP and its ally came together to free Uttar Pradesh of disruptive political forces such as the Samajwadi Party (SP) and the Bahujan Samajwadi Party (BSP). The Union Home Minister said Sonelal Patel dedicated his whole life to fighting for the welfare of Dalits and tribals, as well as the backward and deprived sections of the society. Heaping praise on Anupriya Patel, the daughter of the party's founder, Shah said she was treading in her father's footsteps. Also lauding UP Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, the Union Home Minister said, "The law and order situation in Uttar Pradesh has improved under the leadership of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath. The state has also received bulk investment proposals. Our government is sincerely implementing welfare schemes of the central government for the poor. The number of backward-class youths to have been employed is the highest under the leadership of CM Adityanath." "Prime Minister Modi has done a lot of work for the backward classes in the last nine years. The current NDA government has the most ministers from backward classes since independence. By giving constitutional status to the Backward Commission, Prime Minister Modi has worked to give backward classes the rights that they had denied for long," Shah said. He also hailed PM Modi for making the country safer in the face of external threats and evolving geo-political challenges, adding that terrorists from across the border would routinely cross over into India and unleash attacks on innocent civilians under the previous Congress-led United Progressive Alliance (UPA) government. "Today, terror attacks have come down significantly in the country. Now, India counters any misadventure from across the border with surgical and air strikes. Prime Minister Modi has worked to make the country safe and strong. The country's prestige and global standing have been further enhanced under the leadership of Prime Minister Modi," he added. Several NDA leaders, including of the BJP, attended the event to mark the birth anniversary of the Apna Dal founder. UP deputy CMs Keshav Prasad Maurya and Brajesh Pathak, BJP state president Chaudhary Bhupendra Singh, the national president of Republican Party of India and Union Minister, Ramdas Athawale, Anupriya Patel and Nishad Party chief Sanjay Nishad were among the dignitaries attending the event. (ANI)
The Governor spoke to the Cooch Behar superintendent of Police and the district magistrate.

He also spoke to the hospital authorities asking them to ensure the "best treatment" for the five injured, who had been shifted to the private healthcare facility from the Dinhata hospital.

Earlier, on Friday, the West Bengal Governor called up deceased Trinamool Congress (TMC) worker Babu Haque's brother, Rahmat Ali, enquiring after the bereaved family and promising all assistance.

In fresh violence ahead of the July 8 panchayat polls, clashes had broken out between the TMC and BJP workers in Dinhata, resulting in the death of Babu Haque, who was identified as a TMC worker.

The state has seen several incidents of violence around the filing of nominations for the panchayat polls as well as after, including one where crude bombs were allegedly hurled at a Block Development Office (BDO) at Ahmadpur in Birbhum district.

A TMC worker was also allegedly beaten to death in the Malda district.

The panchayat elections will be held in a single phase, with the counting of votes scheduled on July 11.

The polls are likely to see a fierce tussle for control of local administrations between the ruling TMC and the BJP and will be a litmus test for both parties ahead of next year's Lok Sabha elections. (ANI)
Even as the Opposition alliance in Maharashtra reeled under the seismic turn of events triggered by the exit of senior NCP leader Ajit Pawar along with a band of loyalist MLAs, CPI leader D Raja on Sunday said the BJP was doing everything to stay in power. Speaking to ANI after Pawar met the Maharashtra Governor Ramesh Bais along with fellow dissident NCP MLAs and took oath as the deputy CM, Raja said, "We should wait and see what impact this would have on the politics of Maharashtra and that of the country. The BJP is doing everything to stay in power." Earlier, on Sunday, Congress leader Jairam Ramesh, too, took a dig at the BJP amid the turn of events, saying, "BJP's Washing Machine has resumed its operations." Ramesh's snide dig at the saffron camp was in line with a pet allegation of the Opposition that whoever joins the BJP gets a clean chit or is magically rid of charges or probes by central agencies such as the Enforcement Directorate (ED) and the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). Taking to Twitter, the Congress leader wrote "Clearly the BJP's Washing Machine has resumed its operations. A number of new entrants into the BJP-led alliance in Maharashtra today had been facing serious corruption charges with ED, CBI and Income Tax authorities after them. Now they have all got a clean chit." "The Congress will intensify its efforts to free Maharashtra from the clutches of the BJP," read the tweet further. Also, weighing in on the fast-paced political developments in Maharashtra, People's Democratic Party (PDP) president and former Jammu & Kashmir chief minister, Mehbooba Mufti, said no words were enough to condemn the manner in which "the BJP has repeatedly undermined the popular mandate in Maharashtra". Mufti said democracy in the country was being throttled through such developments in the cover of the national anthem. "No words are enough to condemn the manner in which BJP has repeatedly undermined the popular mandate in Maharashtra. Not only is democracy being butchered but they are using the national anthem to provide cover for such disgraceful actions." "On one hand, BJP is arresting political opponents on trumped-up corruption charges while they themselves are on an MLA purchasing spree. Hard-earned public money is being misused to quench BJPs' thirst for power," Mufti tweeted. Soon after Ajit Pawar was sworn-in as deputy chief minister in the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) government in Maharashtra, Chief Minister Eknath Shinde said the double-engine government in the state has now become "triple-engine and it will run like a bullet train". (ANI)
Delhi Chief Minister, Arvind Kejriwal, on Sunday launched an attack on the Central government and said that the price rise of essential goods is happening because the government is levying taxes on everything. Delhi CM Kejriwal arrived with his Punjab encounter Bhagwant Mann to address a rally in Chhattisgarh's Bilaspur ahead of the state assembly elections and in his address, he criticised Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government at the Centre. CM Kejriwal said, "Modi Ji has made a hike in prices all around. It is becoming difficult to manage house expenses. The salaries are not increasing but the expenses are. Every essential thing is becoming expensive nowadays". "Have you ever thought why there is a price rise? It is not happening on its own. Modi Ji has applied taxes on everything. He did not even leave edibles out of this. Are they planning on looting the people?" CM Kejriwal added. Delhi CM, Arvind Kejriwal, further said, "They (Bharatiya Janata Party) say that I distributed free 'Revdis', yes I did". "I distributed six free revdis to the people of Delhi. first, I gave them free electricity. Second, I provided them with the best education services. From a judge's kid to that of a ricksha-walla, everyone studies in the same school, on the same desk. Third, I procured Delhi the best medical services. God forgives if you have cancer, all your tests and medicines will be free. Also, I made bus journeys, whether private or public, free for women. The fifth revdi is the one that I gave to the senior citizens of each house. Free pilgrimage is provided to them. They are taken to Ayodhya, Kedarnath, and Shirdi. Sixth, employment opportunities were given to 12 lakh unemployed youths.", said CM Kejriwal. "Also, in Punjab, CM Bhagwant Mann provided employment to 30,000 unemployed youths. Arrangements are being made to provide the same to 3 lacks more. Do you not want these Revdis?" (Revdis means free gifts or services). The Chhattisgarh assembly elections are scheduled to be held later this year (ANI).
Amid Opposition efforts to forge a national front against the BJP-led NDA government at the Centre, Union Commerce and Textiles minister Piyush Goyal on Sunday said the country had deeply suffered long periods of coalition rule and was benefitting immensely from the majority mandate with which PM Modi took the highest office in the country. Speaking exclusively to ANI, Goyal said, "I think the country has enough experience of such coalition governments. We've suffered deeply for long periods when the country only saw coalition governments. I believe the country has been benefitting immensely from the majority mandate with which PM Modi took the highest office in the country." Hailing the nine years of governance under the leadership of PM Modi, the Union Minister added, "In the last nine years, he has been working with Seva, Sushasan, and Garib Kalyan (service, good governance and welfare of the poor) as the very core philosophy of his government." "You can see that in every walk of life... the element of service the compassion and empathy with which he works. Giving back to the poorest of the poor is his primary motive. Improving the lives of the poorest in this country and the fact that we brought good governance at the core of the nation's thinking is really the USP of this government." On attempts at a Grand Opposition Alliance against the BJP, the Minister said, "Any amount of such unholy alliances or such conglomeration... you must have heard the proverb, 'kahin ki innt, kahin ka roda, Bhanumati ne kunba joda' (bringing together elements that don't go with each other). This is even worse because here there is absolutely no common ideology, there's no common philosophy, and there couldn't be a common minimum programme. Even post that meeting (in Patna) they fought, and still continue to fight on television shows. So I think the people of India certainly don't want a hotch-potch like this again." On Congress's recent electoral successes in Himachal Pradesh and Karnataka, Goyal said while the BJP fights all polls with utmost sincerity at all levels, the results in the two states only reinforce the fact that democracy in India is well and good and the Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) are also in good order. On his recent US visit, Rahul reiterated his claim that democracy in India was under threat as free speech was being muzzled and institutions were not being allowed to work independently. "We contest every election with utmost seriousness at all levels, which is why the people of this country put love and faith in us. They gave us their mandate twice and the second time the majority was even more than the first. And in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, too, they will give us their mandate. We believe it will be even bigger and stronger than the previous ones because they have faith in Prime Minister Narendra Modi." Further lashing out at the Congress, he said that their losses in 2014 and 2019 rid the country of a 'colonial mindset' that they had a 'divine right to rule.' "They believe that they have a divine right to rule and theirs is the one and only family that matters. This kind of family-run politics is certainly not good for the country, the mindset of keeping the nation poor and giving slogans and promises but never implementing them," the minister said, adding, "It is that old mindset which is almost like a colonial mindset that continued in India for so many decades even after independence-- that which PM Modi has been successful in gradually getting out of the psyche of the common man." (ANI)
Maharashtra Congress spokesperson Atul Londhe on Sunday said that the picture is not yet clear as to which party will appoint a Leader of Opposition in the Maharashtra Assembly as the NCP, who had their Leader of Opposition earlier, no longer has the most number of MLAs. The Congress and NCP seem to be in a fight to appoint the Leader of the Opposition after Congress Spokesperson Atul Londhe said that it is yet to be decided who would be the new LoP in Maharashtra. "Full picture is not yet clear. Why the LoP was from NCP? Because they had more MLAs. But now, Congress has 45 MLAs with them. And as Ajit Pawar has claimed that he has 40 MLAs with him, then NCP will have only 13 MLAs left with them. The picture would be clear in two to three days," Atul Londhe said while speaking to ANI. "All of us will fight in the assembly and then we will have the clarity on the Leader of Opposition," he added. "We (Congress) don't even need to claim anything, this is the fixed formula and I don't think anyone has any objection to it," Maharashtra Congress spokesperson Atul Londhe said affirmatively. The Congress Spokesperson said very clearly that the party with most Members of the Legislative Assembly gets to appoint the Leader of Opposition and it is a formula to which no one can have any objection. He said that it is an accepted formula, hence, Congress doesn't even have to claim anything. Nationalist Congress Party leader Jayant Patil on Sunday said that Jitendra Awhad's name has been sent as the chief whip. A letter has been sent on behalf of the NCP to the speaker of the Assembly. "We have sent Jitendra Awhad's name as chief whip, and have sent a letter on behalf of the NCP party to the speaker of the assembly," NCP leader Jayant Patil said while addressing the media on Sunday. Hours after Ajit Pawar and some other Nationalist Congress Party leaders joined the Maharashtra government, party chief Sharad Pawar said, "this is not 'googly', it is a robbery" and that he was worried about the future of those who left the party. Talking to reporters after his nephew and eight other party leaders rebelled and joined the Shiv Sena-BJP government in Maharashtra, Pawar said he was not worried about what happened and will work to strengthen the party again. He also hinted at action against party leaders Praful Patel and Sunil Tatkare, saying they did not follow their responsibilities. Sharad Pawar said some of those who joined the Shiv Sena-BJP government were facing ED cases. Ajit Pawar took oath as Deputy Chief Minister. Eight other NCP leaders took oath as ministers. (ANI)
Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) working president Supriya Sule on Sunday met party workers after NCP's Ajit Pawar, along with 8 MLAs, joined the Eknath Shinde-led Maharashtra cabinet. In a surprising turn of events, which in some ways resembled the split in Shiv Sena almost a year back, NCP leader Ajit Pawar took oath as Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister with eight other party legislators also joining the National Democratic Alliance government in the state. Ajit Pawar said all MLAs are with him and they have joined the Shiv Sena-BJP government as a party. "We have all the numbers. All MLAs are with me. We are here as a party. We have informed all seniors also. The majority is given importance in a democracy. Our party is 24-year old and young leadership should come forward," Ajit Pawar said after taking oath as Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra. The Deputy CM further said that a few other ministers would be added in the next expansion. "We took a decision to come with the Shinde-Fadanvis govt with almost all MLAs of NCP. We took the oath and a few other ministers will be added in the next expansion", Ajit Pawar said. State Governor Ramesh Bais administered the oath to NCP Leader Ajit Pawar as Maharashtra's second Deputy Chief Minister. The Governor also gave oaths to Chhagan Bhujbal, Dilip Walse-Patil, Hasan Mushrif, Dhananjay Munde, Dharmarao Baba Atram, Aditi Tatkare, Sanjay Bansode and Anil Patil. After the dramatic turn of events, Chief Minister Eknath Shinde said that the double-engine government in the state has now become "triple-engine and it will run like a bullet train". CM Shinde said, "Now we have 1 Chief Minister and 2 Deputy Chief Ministers. The double-engine government has now become a triple-engine and now it will run like a bullet train. For the development of Maharashtra, I welcome Ajit Pawar and his leaders. Ajit Pawar's experience will help strengthen Maharashtra." As per the party sources, Maharashtra Deputy CM Ajit Pawar has the backing of more than 40 MLAs in the State Legislative Assembly and more than 6 MLCs in the Legislative Council. Talking to reporters after his nephew and eight other party leaders rebelled and joined the Shiv Sena-BJP government in Maharashtra, Pawar said he was not worried about what happened and will work to strengthen the party again. He also hinted at action against party leaders Praful Patel and Sunil Tatkare, saying they did not follow their responsibilities. Sharad Pawar said some of those who joined the Shiv Sena-BJP government were facing ED cases. "Some of my colleagues have taken a different stand. I had called a meeting of all the leaders on July 6, where some important issue was to be discussed and some changes were to be made within the party but before that meeting, some of the leaders have taken a different stand." Sharad Pawar said that in the next two-three days, they will sit with Congress and Uddhav Thackeray to access the situation. "Our main strength is the common people they have elected us". Uddhav Thackeray Faction MP Sanjay Raut said that Maharashtra will get another CM in a few days. "We already knew that this was going to happen. Eknath Shinde and the 16 MLAs that went with him will be disqualified. Maharashtra will get another CM in a few days", MP Sanjay Raut said. This dramatic turn of events took place a year after Eknath Shinde revolted out of the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) Government of Maharashtra along with 39 MLAs and split Shiv Sena, National Congress Party (NCP) leader Ajit Pawar along with 8 NCP MLAs sworn in as Deputy Chief Minister and Ministers respectively, of the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) government in Maharashtra breaking the MVA opposition alliance. According to sources, MLAs accompanying Ajit Pawar to Raj Bhawan were upset with NCP supremo Sharad Pawar's 'unilateral' decision to share the stage and ally with Rahul Gandhi at the opposition unity meet in Bihar's Patna last month. (ANI)
West Bengal Governor CV Ananda Bose on Sunday had a telephonic conversation with the family of Trinamool Congress worker Ziarul Molla who was shot dead in Basanti on Saturday. The Governor who was on his way back from Cooch Behar assured the bereaved family of all help, a video released from the Raj Bhavan showed. The TMC worker was found lying with a bullet injury on his head on the side of the road at Basanti police station. The incident took place on Saturday night in the Phulmalanch village panchayat area in the limits of Basanti police station. According to family and police sources, the young Trinamool worker of Khirishkhali village of Ramachandrakhali panchayat, came to Canning on Saturday and was returning home that night when unidentified miscreants shot at him in the Chatrakhalighagramari area of Phulmalanch panchayat. Ziarul was shot in the head, they said. Earlier on Sunday, Governor Bose paid a visit to a private hospital in Cooch Behar to meet the injured in the violence at Dinhata. The Governor also spoke to the Cooch Behar superintendent of Police and the district magistrate. The West Bengal Governor also spoke to the hospital authorities asking them to ensure the "best treatment" for the five injured, who had been shifted to the private healthcare facility from the Dinhata hospital. Earlier, on Friday, he called up deceased Trinamool Congress (TMC) worker Babu Haque's brother, Rahmat Ali, enquiring after the bereaved family and promising all assistance. In fresh violence ahead of the July 8 panchayat polls, clashes had broken out between the TMC and BJP workers in Dinhata, resulting in the death of Babu Haque, who was identified as a TMC worker. The state has seen several incidents of violence around the filing of nominations for the panchayat polls as well as after, including one where crude bombs were allegedly hurled at a Block Development Office (BDO) at Ahmadpur in Birbhum district. A TMC worker was also allegedly beaten to death in the Malda district. The panchayat elections will be held in a single phase, with the counting of votes scheduled on July 11. The polls are likely to see a fierce tussle for control of local administrations between the ruling TMC and the BJP and will be a litmus test for both parties ahead of next year's Lok Sabha elections. (ANI)
After Ajit Pawar took oath as the Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra, party workers on Sunday celebrated outside the NCP office in Jalgaon bursting crackers. They also raised slogans like 'Ajit Pawar, you go ahead, we are with you'. Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar has the backing of more than 40 MLAs in the State Legislative Assembly and more than 6 MLCs in the Legislative Council. "Ajit Pawar has the backing of more than 40 MLAs in Vidhan Sabha and more than 6 MLCs in Vidhan Parishad," party sources said. Newly appointed Maharashtra Deputy CM Ajit Pawar said, "Today, we have decided to support the Maharashtra government and took oath as ministers. There will be a discussion on the portfolios later. Considering all aspects at the national level, we thought that we should support development." "The country is progressing under the leadership of PM Modi. He is also popular in other countries. Everyone supports him and appreciates his leadership. We will fight the upcoming Lok Sabha and Assembly elections with them (BJP) and that is why we have taken this decision," Pawar added. Earlier today Nationalist Congress Party (NCP)'s senior leader Ajit Pawar on Sunday joined Eknath Shinde-led government in Maharashtra and took oath as the deputy chief minister of the state. In a dramatic turn of events, Pawar, along with nine MLAs, reached Raj Bhawan to meet Governor Ramesh Bais. A total of nine NCP leaders took oath as Maharashtra ministers after Ajit Pawar and other party leaders joined the NDA government in Maharashtra. (ANI) Pawar was later administered oath as the second deputy chief minister of Maharashtra. Chief Minister Eknath Shinde was also present on the occasion. On the occasion, Maharashtra CM Eknath Shinde said that the double-engine government has now become triple-engine. "Now we have 1 Chief Minister and 2 Deputy Chief Ministers. The double-engine government has now become triple engine. For the development of Maharashtra, I welcome Ajit Pawar and his leaders. Ajit Pawar's experience will help strengthen Maharashtra," Maharashtra CM Shinde said. (ANI)
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Sunday said that in the nine years of Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led BJP government, India has set new benchmarks for progress and prosperity and today the entire world recognises India's ability to manage the biggest crises. "During the past nine years, India has set new benchmarks for progress and prosperity. Now the entire world recognises India's ability to manage the biggest crises of the present," said Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Sunday. Addressing a gathering after laying the foundation stone of the Post Master General (PMG) office and Arogya Mandir sub-post office buildings and inaugurating the parcel hub and nodal delivery centre at Rapti Nagar Phase-III, Yogi said: "Not only has the prestige of India and its people increased on global forums, but the attitude of the people of the world towards India has also changed. The whole world today sees Prime Minister Narendra Modi as a troubleshooter." The Chief Minister said that a new India has emerged under the leadership of PM Modi. "A new enthusiasm is seen in people in all the countries that PM Modi visits. The whole world is eager to congratulate PM Modi for the kind of leadership he gave to the country during the Corona crisis while upholding freedom of expression and democratic values. PM Modi provided free check-ups, treatment, and vaccines for all the citizens of the country. As many as 220 crore doses of vaccine were given along with maintenance allowances to the needy." He added, "Twelve crore farmers are being given the benefit of PM Samman Nidhi. Funds for public welfare schemes are being sent to Jan Dhan accounts through DBT, and for the last three and a half years, free ration facilities have been provided to 80 crore people. Such arrangements were not there in any other country in the world during the pandemic." The Chief Minister said that the people of the world, who earlier believed that India could not do it, now believe that India alone can do it. From infrastructure development to internal and external security, through poor welfare schemes, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has brought about massive changes in the lives of the citizens of the country, he pointed out. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath said that under the leadership of PM Modi, the picture of New India is also visible in the field of postal services. When the digital revolution came in the communication sector, it seemed that postal services would stop. But, under the leadership of PM Modi, the postal services also joined the digital revolution, giving a new dimension to their services." CM Yogi stressed the importance of postal services since the times when there were no means of transport and the postmen delivered letters and money orders by travelling long distances on foot. Today, a new form of Postal department is being created by connecting it with banking and insurance services. Through commemorative postage stamps, the Department of Posts has done an important task of connecting the past with the present, he added further. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath said that the services of the Postal department have been highly commendable during the Corona crisis, as it worked as a reliable companion. When all institutions had come to a halt, the postmen went from village to village and delivered the money to people sent by their near and dear ones. Referring to the Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana launched by PM Modi through the Postal Department, the Chief Minister said that the scheme will help achieve the goal of the slogan 'Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao'. Mentioning the importance of the newly inaugurated Parcel Hub, CM Yogi said that it is a sign of the Postal Department's growing popularity and commitment to public aspirations. Apart from Eastern Uttar Pradesh, different regions of the country will also benefit from this coordination of railways, he informed. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath also honoured the beneficiaries of the Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana, Mahila Samman Bachat Patra, and Deendayal Sparsh Scholarship Scheme on the occasion. (ANI)
A priceless painting that Nazi Germany stole from a Polish aristocrat in 1940 has been found in Japan and returned to Poland, as per the Polish Embassy in Japan and a Tokyo-based art auction house, Kyodo News reported. The painting, "Madonna with Child" by Italian Baroque-Era painter Alessandro Turchi, was handed over to the Polish Embassy in Tokyo in late May at no expense to Poland. However, it is unclear how the piece ended up in the ownership of its previous Japanese owner. The embassy claims that this is the first time a piece of art that was seized from Poland during Nazi rule has been found in the Far East, as per Kyodo News. Kyodo News is a news agency based in Minato, Tokyo. According to Poland's Ministry of Culture and National Heritage, the painting has been missing since the 1990s, when it was offered for auction in New York. The painting's former owner requested that it be sold at auction in the autumn of 2021, according to Mainichi Auction Inc. in Tokyo, which uploaded a picture of the painting online and estimated its value at about 3 million yen (USD 21,000). The Polish ministry approached the corporation in advance of the auction, which was slated to take place in late January 2022. According to the firm, Polish authorities first claimed that some of the painting's elements did not match those on an old photograph of the stolen artwork that was thought to have been shot in 1939 or 1940, according to Kyodo News. Later, a Polish team of experts travelled to Japan to verify the authenticity of the painting and that it had been stolen during the Nazi occupation. A UV scan revealed that the original had been painted over in several places. Yoshiaki Onoyama, Mainichi Auction's official who negotiated with the former Japanese owner for the return of the painting said, "Polish citizens, who give the highest acclaim to Madonna with Child, have once again become its owner." "There was no financial incentive for us, but I think we got the job done," he added, Kyodo News reported. (ANI)
Tel Aviv [Israel], July 1 (ANI/TPS): Israel's Central Bureau of Statistics released the data on the export and import of goods by mode of transport in 2022. In 2022, exports of goods to Israel by air transport increased by 22.0 per cent compared with 2021. Imports of goods to Israel by sea transport from China comprised 20.0 per cent of the total value of imports by sea transport. Exports of goods from Israel by air transport to Ireland totalled 2.4 billion USD, compared with 1.2 billion USD in 2021. Exports by air transport comprised 58.2 per cent (42.2 billion USD) of the total value of exported goods, exports by sea transport comprised 36.3 per cent (26.3 billion USD) of the total value of exported goods and exports by the other modes of transport (land transport, parcel post transport and self-propelled transport) comprised 5.5 per cent of the total value of exports. In 2022, imports by sea transport comprised 68.2 per cent (73.4 billion USD) of the total value of imported goods and imports by air transport comprised 29.9 per cent (32.2 billion USD) of the total value of imported goods. Total imports by the other modes of transport (land transport, parcel post transport and self-propelled transport) comprised 1.9 per cent of the total value of imported goods. The main goods exported by sea transport were "Miscellaneous Chemical Products" which constituted 17.0 per cent of the total exports by sea transport (13.5 per cent in 2021), "Machinery and Mechanical Appliances and Computer Equipment" which constituted 12.3 per cent of the total exports by sea transport (13.7 per cent in 2021) and "Plastics and Articles Thereof " which constituted 12.0 per cent (13.4 per cent in 2021) of the total exports by sea transport. The main countries of exports by air transport were: the USA which constituted 30.5 per cent of the total exports by air transport (31.5 per cent in 2021), China 7.9 per cent (9.4 per cent in 2021), Ireland 5.7 per cent (3.6 in 2021), the United Kingdom 5.5 per cent (3.3 per cent in 2021) and India 5.2 per cent (5.9 per cent in 2021). The main countries of origin of imports by air transport were: the USA which constituted 19.2 per cent of the total imports by air transport (19.2 per cent in 2021), China 14.4 per cent (14.5 per cent in 2021), Germany 6.9 per cent (6.7 per cent in 2021) and India 5.8 per cent (6.2 per cent in 2021). The main countries of origin of imports by sea transport were: China which constituted 20.0% of the total imports by sea transport (19.9 per cent in 2021), Turkey 8.5 per cent (8.4 per cent in 2021), Germany 5.4 per cent (6.0 per cent in 2021) and USA 5.3 per cent (5.8 per cent in 2021). (ANI/TPS)
Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be the Guest of Honour for the national day celebrations of France this year. Bastille Day, observed on July 14 every year, is France's National Day. The day is marked by a special military parade at the Champs Elysees in Paris. On May 5, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) made an announcement stating that French President Emmanuel Macron extended an invitation to Prime Minister Modi. This visit holds the promise of enhancing the India-France Strategic Partnership by establishing ambitious objectives in areas such as strategic collaboration, cultural exchange, scientific advancements, academic pursuits, and economic cooperation. India and France share a common vision of peace and security, especially in Europe and the Indo-Pacific, upholding the objectives and principles of the United Nations Charter. The forthcoming visit is likely to see the launch of some common initiatives responding to the key challenges of the time, such as biodiversity loss, climate change, and the achievement of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). It provides an opportunity for India and France to reaffirm their commitment to multilateralism, including in the context of India's G20 Presidency. India and France are celebrating the 25th anniversary of their Strategic Partnership this year. An Indian armed forces contingent will participate in the Bastille Day Parade alongside their French counterparts to mark this important milestone. India has so far signed more than 35 strategic partnerships. But, the strategic partnership India signed with France in January 1998 was India's first ever. A few months later, India conducted the Pokhran II nuclear tests. India carried out its nuclear tests within a few months. Not only did France refrain from imposing sanctions, but President Chirac himself sought to provide India with a respectable entry into the global nuclear framework. The Prime Ministerial visit may be useful for India in the context of the Ukraine war, where Indian and European perceptions differ. The strengthening of the strategic partnership with France may reassure other EU nations that despite occasional tactical differences, a friendly relationship with India continues to be a useful investment. France's lead within the European Union is likely to be more decisive than ever before. Since Brexit, France remains the only country in the European Union which is both a nuclear state and a Permanent Member of the Security Council of the United Nations. France hosts the fourth-largest Indian diaspora in Europe, following the United Kingdom, Italy, and Germany. Despite the prevailing difficulties, France has earnestly endeavoured to attract Indian students and professionals. The two nations have established a bilateral agreement focused on migration and mobility cooperation, with the objective of facilitating circular migration that enables individuals to enhance their skills abroad and subsequently return to contribute to their home country. Nonetheless, it's critical to focus on enhancing the scale of mutual trade and investment. The two-way commerce has been hovering around USD 10-12 billion during the last few years. India's trade with countries like Bangladesh, Thailand, and Vietnam exceeds in size when compared to its trade with France. It is incumbent upon India to explore ways and means to amplify its trade volume with France, a formidable European economy valued at USD 3 trillion. The forthcoming visit is poised to be a significant milestone for the Indian Navy, with substantial agreements on the horizon. There is a palpable sense of anticipation among national and international defence and security sectors, speculating the possible fruition of long-standing government-to-government (G2G) defence contracts. This potential breakthrough represents a promising leap forward in bilateral relations and a testament to persistent negotiations. The negotiations included the procurement of 26 Dassault Rafale-Maritime (M) fighters and at least three add-on Scorpene-class diesel-electric 'killer-hunter' conventional submarines or SSKs. They are to supplement six similar boats which were licence-built by Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL) in Mumbai from 2006 onwards. The visit may also see India agreeing to France's involvement in the Navy's programme to build six nuclear-powered attack submarines or SSNs, via a technology transfer. That project is underway at the secretive Ship Building Centre in Visakhapatnam. Secondly, another anticipated highlight of PM Modi's visit is the prospective agreement on the anvil for MDL to undertake the license-build of three more Scorpene-class submarines. The Indian Navy's Project 75-India (P-75I) programme, a home-grown initiative to construct six SSKs in partnership with a foreign original equipment manufacturer, has been plagued by several delays over the past 16 years. However, this potential agreement signifies a reinvigoration of the program and promises to push forward India's defence ambitions. France has shown a keen interest in partnering with key Indian entities such as the Defence Research and Development Organisation, the Department of Atomic Energy, the Navy, and related organisations. Their collaboration would focus on locally constructing six SSNs, designed to augment and operationally assist the Navy's fleet of four indigenously designed and built Arihant-class nuclear-powered missile submarines (SSBNs), each weighing 7,000 tonnes. The latter submarines were constructed leveraging Russian know-how and technical support, underscoring the international collaboration that underpins India's naval advancements. In early 2023, France offered to jointly develop SSNs with India by transferring technology based on its Barracuda-class SSNs. The first of those, INS Suffren, was commissioned into the French Navy in mid-2022. They are designed by the Naval Group, which is also responsible for developing the Scorpene boats. The deal may be compensation for Naval Design following the cancellation of a similar deal with Australia. Australia 2021 cancelled a deal with Naval Design to supply the Royal Australian Navy with 12 conventional diesel-electric Attack-class submarines for over USD 60 billion. A new deal to acquire 26 Rafale Marine fighters for indigenously-built aircraft carrier INS Vikrant may be announced during the visit. India has already purchased 36 Rafale fighter jets from France. Air India recently announced a deal to purchase 250 planes from the French behemoth Airbus. Experts are hopeful that like PM Modi's successful US tour in which several landmark defence purchases were confirmed by the Pentagon, his Paris visit may, boost the long-deferred modernisation and operational capabilities of India's military via the G2G route. Prime Minister Modi's anticipated visit to France serves as a cornerstone in their strategic partnership. Celebrating the 25th anniversary of their alliance, it promises to reinforce bonds across various sectors, from strategic collaborations and cultural exchanges to economic cooperation. This visit is expected to usher significant defence contracts and amplify trade, creating a transformative roadmap for bilateral relations. The trip signifies a shared commitment to tackle global challenges and uplift multilateralism, marking a new era of shared growth and prosperity. The author of this opinion article is Dr Divya Rani, who is an assistant professor at BHU, Varanasi. She is doctorate in International Relations with specialisation in European Studies from SIS/JNU, New Delhi. (ANI)
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Chinese Vice President Han Zheng meets with Malawian President Lazarus Chakwera in Changsha, central China's Hunan Province, June 28, 2023. (Xinhua/Zhai Jianlan)

China's achievement in pursuing high-quality development and economic growth is "an example for Africa to learn from and emulate," Malawian President Lazarus Chakwera said here in a recent interview with Xinhua.



"Over the past decades, African countries have been learning valuable lessons from China," he said. Now it's time to put what was learned into practice and "start doing (it) in our own countries," said Chakwera, who attended the third China-Africa Economic and Trade Expo held in Changsha, the capital of central China's Hunan Province, from Thursday to Sunday.

"The expo is a platform for us to be able to relate with the Chinese people, not just person to person, but industry to industry, nation to nation," the Malawian president told Xinhua during the interview on Friday.

"We will use this economic and trade expo to make sure that we trade more with our counterparts here," he said. "We invite Chinese industry to establish themselves and invest in Malawi."

Joining the Belt and Road Initiative in 2022, Malawi has already been benefiting from its partnership with China in such fields as agriculture, technologies and infrastructure.

"We truly treasure Chinese investment because that's helping us become self-reliant, ensuring our food security on the household level as well as the national level," Chakwera said.

Citing China's investment in Malawian infrastructure as an example, the president said that China is offering necessary help for his country to attract investment, and achieve rapid and independent development, adding that it is "not a handout."

On China's efforts to pursue high-quality development while preserving the environment, the president expressed his admiration. "This is the green way to grow," said Chakwera. "Malawi wants to be a green Malawi, and we can learn a lot from what is happening here."

In March, Tropical Cyclone Freddy roared into Malawi, triggering flooding and mudslides, and causing thousands of deaths and homelessness. To support the African country's rescue and disaster relief work, China provided emergency humanitarian assistance.

As the Malawian people reconstruct their country after the damage Freddy has caused, Chakwera said that by learning from China, Malawi could be better prepared for such kind of climate change shocks, and become more resilient.

During the interview, the president debunked the "de-risking" and "de-coupling" rhetoric about China used by some Western countries.

"We can learn from and emulate China in many ways," Chakwera said. However, he added that sometimes people are blind to the facts.

Talking about his impressions of China, the president said he has been greatly impressed during his visit.

"The Chinese people are just like the Malawians, warm-hearted," he said. "I love the food; I love the scenery; I love the internationality."
As India prepares to host the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit in virtual format on Tuesday, it is, perhaps, in order to hark back to how New Delhi's relationship with the group began. As an observer country, India joined the SCO in 2005 and became a full member of the group at the Astana Summit in 2017, marking a watershed point in its relationship with the Organisation. In the last six years, India has taken an active and positive role in all SCO operations. At the SCO Summit in Samarkand in September 2022, India took over the chairmanship of the SCO for the first time from Uzbekistan. During India's presidency, the SCO has reached new milestones in the depth and intensity of its engagements and interactions across wide-ranging sectors. The theme of India's chairship of SCO- SECURE is derived from the acronym coined by Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the 2018 SCO Qingadao Summit. It stands for:S : Security,E: Economic development,C: Connectivity,U: Unity,R: Respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity E: Environmental protection India created five new pillars and focus areas of cooperation in SCO -- Startups and Innovation, Traditional Medicine, Digital Inclusion, Youth Empowerment and Shared Buddhist Heritage. Two new mechanisms in SCO -- Special Working Group on Startups and Innovation and Experts Working Group on Traditional Medicine -- were created at India's initiative. "On February this year, a virtual conference of experts and practitioners of traditional medicine was organised where experts from 25 countries of SCO participated. As per the vision of Hon'ble PM Shri Narendra Modi ji, the draft terms of reference of Expert Working Group on Traditional Medicine was approved during a meeting of experts held at New Delhi last month," the official release of Ministry of Ayush stated. In fact, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has also said earlier that India is set to take an initiative for a new SCO working group on traditional medicines. While addressing the extended format of the 22nd Summit of the Council of Heads of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization Member States (SCO-CoHS) in Uzbekistan's Samarkand, he said, "In April 2022, WHO inaugurated its Global Centre for Traditional Medicines in Gujarat. This was the first & only global centre by WHO for traditional treatment. India will take an initiative for a new SCO working group on traditional medicines." To achieve the Prime Minister Modi's vision of Vasudhaiv Kutumbakom (World is One Family), India emphasised more people-to-people connections. A number of landmark events were held under the Indian Chair of SCO in order to deepen people-to-people connections. With its involvement in 14 socio-cultural events, the SCO Observers and Dialogue Partners under Indian Chair demonstrated new levels of engagement. Further, events such as SCO Film Festival, SCO Millet Food Festival, SCO Cultural showcase at SurajKund Mela, SCO Tourism Mart, "Conference on Shared Buddhist Heritage", "B2B Conference on Traditional Medicine", SCO International Conference of Think Tanks also took place. Drawing focus on India's cultural and civilisational heritage, Kashi/ Varanasi was celebrated as the 1st SCO Tourist and Cultural Capital of SCO 2022-23. Youth Empowerment was another focus area of the Indian chair, with events such as Young Authors Conference, Young Scientist Conclave, Startup Forum, SCO Youth Council and Conference, and SCO Resident Researchers Programme where the SCO young scholar from Member State stayed in India for a month to conduct research activities. Further, during India's presidency of the SCO, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar virtually opened New Delhi Hall in the SCO Secretariat in Beijing. To commemorate India's first SCO presidency, a commemorative stamp was issued. On May 4-5 this year, India also hosted the Foreign Ministers of SCO in Goa, this was marked by a colourful cultural program and substantive discussions the following day. Goa showcased its warm hospitality, unique culture and distinct heritage. The Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Council of Heads of State is all set to be chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in a virtual format, according to the statement released by SCO. Under India's leadership, the SCO Council of Heads of State will be held in a virtual format on July 4, 2023. All the SCO Member States -- China, Russia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Pakistan, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan -- have been invited to attend the Summit. In addition, Iran, Belarus and Mongolia have been invited as Observer States. As per the SCO tradition, Turkmenistan has also been invited as the guest of the Chair. Heads of the two SCO Bodies -- the Secretariat and the SCO RATS -- will also be present. Further, heads of six international and regional organisations -- UN, ASEAN, CIS, CSTO, EAEU and CICA -- have also been invited to the summit. India's chairmanship of SCO has been a period of intense activity and mutually beneficial cooperation between Member States. India has hosted a total of 134 meetings and events, including 14 Ministerial-level meetings. India remains committed to playing a positive and constructive role in the organization and looks forward to a successful SCO Summit as the culmination of its Chairmanship. The rotational presidency remains with India until September 2023. (ANI)
"Another enemy attack on Kyiv," Al Jazeera quoted Serhiy Popko, a colonel general who heads Kyiv's military administration, saying in a post on the Telegram channel early on Sunday.

"At this moment, there is no information about possible casualties or damage," he said.

The attack came a day after Ukrainian officials reported more civilian casualties from Russian shelling in the country's east and south.

At least three civilians were killed and 17 were wounded on Friday and overnight on Saturday, in the eastern front-line Donetsk region according to Governor Pavlo Kyrylenko.

The Ukrainian General Staff reported that fierce clashes continued in three areas in Donetsk where it said Russia has massed troops and attempted to advance. It named the outskirts of three cities - Bakhmut, Lyman and Marinka - as front-line hot spots, AL Jazeera reported.

In addition to this, five people including a child were wounded in Ukraine's southern Kherson region, on Friday as well as in overnight attacks, according to Governor Oleksandr Prokudin.

He said that Russian forces launched 82 artillery, drone, mortar shell and rocket attacks on the province, which is cut in two by a stretch of the 1,500km (930 miles) front line and still reeling from flooding unleashed by the collapse earlier this month of a major Dnipro River dam.

Meanwhile, in Ukraine's northwest, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy held a meeting of the country's top military command and atomic energy officials at the Rivne nuclear power plant to discuss "the security of our northern regions and our measures to strengthen them", Al Jazeera reported. (ANI)
According to ARY News, motorcyclists in the Naourang area opened fire on the banned TTP operative named Orangzib alias Amiri,

The cause behind the attack is not known yet.

However, according to Police sources, the TTP operative lost his life in the attack and two others were injured. The body and injured were immediately rushed to the hospital.

Previously, the Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) of Pakistan's Punjab police claimed to have killed two terrorists connected with the banned Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) in a shootout.

According to the CTD spokesperson, the terrorists were plotting an attack on law enforcement forces when they were neutralised, ARY News reported. (ANI)
"Royal Australian Air Force P-8A Poseidon will conduct joint maritime surveillance patrols this week with our Indian Navy mates. As top-tier security partners, India & Australia will continue to work together to enhance our maritime capabilities and build maritime domain awareness," the statement by Australian High Commission read.

Last year also, a Royal Australian Air Force (RAFF) P-8A Poseidon aircraft was deployed to India under a combined India-Australia maritime surveillance initiative.

Previously, IN P8I aircraft had operated from Darwin, Australia in April 2022 and undertaken coordinated ops with RAAF P8A in Northern Australian waters.

A 'Joint Guidance for the Australia - India Navy to Navy Relationship' was signed between the Indian Navy and Royal Australian Navy on August 18, 2021.

Subsequently, the 'Terms of Reference for the Conduct of Navy-to-Navy Talks' was signed on September 29, 2021. (ANI)
The decision was revealed by the Canadian government in a news release on Tuesday this week.

According to the news release, Bill C-47 changes the Food and Drugs Act to prohibit both animal testing of cosmetic items and the sale of products based on animal testing data.

With this new development, Canada will join the European Union, Australia, the United Kingdom (UK), and South Korea in outlawing the cruel practice of animal testing for cosmetics.

Citing Humane Society International, an organisation that promotes the human-animal bond across the globe, CNN reported that a total of 44 countries have passed laws banning cosmetic animal testing.

Furthermore, the practice is prohibited in ten states in the United States: New York, Virginia, California, Louisiana, New Jersey, Maine, Hawaii, Nevada, Illinois, and Maryland.

"Protecting animals, now and in the future, is something that many Canadians have been calling for, and something we can all celebrate," CNN quoted Canadian Minister of Health Jean-Yves Duclos as saying in the release.

"We are proud to move forward with this measure and to assure Canadians that the products they buy are cruelty-free. We will keep working with experts and international partners to explore safe, cruelty-free alternatives so no more animals suffer and die due to cosmetic testing."

According to the announcement, Health Canada is also attempting to identify "effective alternatives to animal testing" outside of the cosmetic industry.

Notably, cosmetic testing included "toxicity tests" in which animals were trained to swallow or inhale specific chemicals, or to have the chemicals applied to their skin or eyes. (ANI)
According to local sources, Iranian border guards opened fire on Afghan people attempting to enter Iran illegally.

The incident occurred late Saturday night and claimed the lives of four Afghan nationals from the country's northern regions.

Taliban officials in southeastern Nimroz province are yet to respond.

Similar gunfire and cross-border shelling have occurred in the past, killing a number of Afghan residents.

Due to a lack of employment prospects, insecurity, and a severe economic condition, Afghans have been driven to take relatively perilous and illegal routes into neighbouring countries and beyond in quest of work and a better life.

These unlawful movements can have disastrous repercussions, culminating in the deaths of hundreds of innocent individuals, Khaama Press reported.

Furthermore, fatal road accidents have taken the lives of illegal immigrants in Iran and along the Afghan border on occasion. (ANI)
According to the media wing, the weapons and ammunition were also recovered from the terrorists.

According to the report, the assassinated terrorists were still actively participating in different terrorist activities against security personnel, police, and innocent citizens.

They were also "highly wanted for conducting a raid on a police check post in Kulachi on April 11, 2022, which resulted in the martyrdom of five brave police constables" according to the statement, reported Dawn.

The operation in Dera Ismail Khan comes amid an increase in terrorist activity across the country, particularly in KP and Balochistan, since the outlawed militant group Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan broke its ceasefire with the government in November.

As the law and order situation in Pakistan continues to deteriorate, a day ago, a police constable was also injured in a hand grenade attack at Quetta's "smart" police station. (ANI)
Chinese billionaire and co-founder of Alibaba Group, Jack Ma, has created a stir among observers with his unexpected visit to Pakistan, according to the Express Tribune newspaper. The Express Tribune is a daily English-language newspaper based in Pakistan. Former Chairman of the Board of Investment (BOI), Muhammad Azfar Ahsan, confirmed the visit to The Express Tribune, stating that Ma arrived in Lahore on June 29 and stayed for 23 hours. Jack Ma during the visit, avoided interactions with government officials and the media. He resided at a private location and left on June 30 via a private jet registered under the name VP-CMA, owned by Jet Aviation. According to The Express Tribune, while the purpose of Ma's visit remains confidential at this point, there is hope that it will yield positive outcomes for Pakistan in the days to come, according to Ahsan. Ma was accompanied by a delegation of seven businessmen, consisting of five Chinese nationals, one Danish individual, and one US citizen. They arrived in Pakistan from Nepal via a chartered flight from Hong Kong's business aviation sector. There have been various speculations on social media about Ma and his team exploring business opportunities in Pakistan, including visits to trade centres and meetings with prominent businessmen and officials from various chambers of commerce. However, there has been no confirmation regarding any specific business deals or meetings. Ahsan in a tweet clarified that Ma's visit was strictly for personal purposes. Interestingly, even the Chinese embassy was unaware of the details of Ma's visit and engagements in the country, he said. Speaking to the Express Tribune, P@SHA, Chairman, Zohaib Khan remarked, "Although it was a personal visit, it helped enhance Pakistan's reputation from a tourism standpoint." Khan expressed the view that Pakistani authorities should have taken the opportunity to arrange a meeting with Ma and gain insights from his seasoned experience in the IT world. He said even a statement from Ma regarding Pakistan's IT sector would have significant impact. (ANI)
Zelenskyy in a news conference with Spanish media in Kyiv on Saturday, said: "Mike Pence has visited us, and he supports Ukraine. First of all, as an American, and then as a Republican."

"We have bipartisan support. However, there are different messages in their circles regarding support for Ukraine. There are messages coming from some Republicans, sometimes dangerous messages, that there may be less support," he said.

The Ukrainian President said that regardless of who wins the next US Presidential election, maintaining bipartisan support is "the most important thing for Ukraine."

During the same news conference, Zelenskyy was asked if he fears for his own life, to which he replied that he thinks "it is more dangerous for Putin" due to the Russian president's growing number of international adversaries.

Meanwhile, Russia launched an overnight drone attack on Kyiv on Saturday, after a 12-day break, a senior Ukrainian military official said, Al Jazeera reported.

"Another enemy attack on Kyiv," Al Jazeera quoted Serhiy Popko, a colonel general who heads Kyiv's military administration, saying in a post on the Telegram channel early on Sunday.

"At this moment, there is no information about possible casualties or damage," he said.

The attack came a day after Ukrainian officials reported more civilian casualties from Russian shelling in the country's east and south. (ANI)
19-year-old Ga. mom facing charges after baby found with skull fracture, broken legs, deputies say

A Georgia teen is facing multiple charges after the Georgia Bureau of Investigation said an infant was found with several fractures.

[DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks]

Last month, on June 8, the Colquitt County Sheriffs Office along with the GBI began investigating an infant child abuse case.

Deputies said the 4-month-old baby boy was taken to a Florida Hospital with a fractured skull and two healing leg fractures.

TRENDING STORIES:

On June 27, around 3 p.m., Colquitt County investigators arrested and charged Juni Benavides,19, of Moultrie, with cruelty to children in the 1st degree and cruelty to children in the 2nd degree.

She was booked in the Colquitt County Jail.

The GBI said the child has since been released and is recovering from the injuries.

The investigation is ongoing. Anyone with information is asked to contact the GBI Regional Investigative Office in Thomasville at 229-225-4090.

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IN OTHER NEWS:
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U.S. President Joe Biden on Friday accepted the Letter of Credence of China's new ambassador to the United States, Xie Feng, in the Oval Office of the White House.

Welcoming Xie to take his new post, Biden had a conversation with him on U.S.-China relations.

Xie said his appointment as the 12th Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the People's Republic of China to the United States means to him not only honor, but also enormous responsibilities.

In November 2022, Chinese President Xi Jinping and Biden held a successful meeting in Bali, Indonesia, and reached important common understandings, Xie noted, adding that China follows the three principles put forward by Xi, namely, mutual respect, peaceful coexistence and win-win cooperation.

It is hoped that the U.S. side will work with China in the same direction, earnestly act on the common understandings reached in Bali between the two heads of state, and explore the right way for the two countries to get along in the new era, so as to stabilize and bring the China-U.S. relationship back to the right track, he said.

Xie arrived in the United States on May 23 to assume office.




W.K. Kellogg Foundation President and CEO La June Montgomery Tabron, left, Tyler James Williams at the 2023 Essence Festival of Culture presented by Coca-Cola.

Emmy-nominated actor Tyler James Williams is speaking out on the recent Supreme Court decision that restricts affirmative action in higher education.



Speaking alongside W. K. Kellogg Foundation CEO and president, La June Montgomery Tabron about their new initiativewhich aims to shine a light on the importance of early childcare and education, celebrate educators, caregivers, communities, and organizations helping children overcome obstacles in the classroom and beyondWilliams told The Root:

Read more

I think the ruling that was passed was incredibly unfortunate. But I think one of the things that Ive seen is missing from the conversation is [that] it will create and continue to exacerbate inequity on the collegiate levelbut we already have inequity at the elementary level. And we have for some time. As unfortunate as that is, we can start this advocacy at age zero. And thats what I love about what the W.K.Kellogg Foundation is doing because if we start young, then hopefully we can build a generation of educated, informed community members who can affect change in the very ways this initiative is talking about. So we dont have this misinformation thats flying around about affirmative action. We have people who can look at their politicians and their policymakers with a critical view. But that education doesnt start once you get a voting age. That education starts at the very beginning.

Additionally, as part of the new partnership with Kellogg, throughout the summer the Abbott Elementary star will underscore first-hand accounts of early childcare and education advocates in New Mexico, Michigan, Louisiana, and Mississippi. Narrated by Williams, viewers will see the work of those advocates as they fight to provide equitable learning and development opportunities for children around the country. With this new initiative and the continuous positive impact of Abbott, Williams said he hopes these steps will inspire people and policymakers to think and talk about the inequity in early education from the heart first so that they can take the actions necessary to change it.

Photo: W.K. Kellogg Foundation.

Im seeing people talk about in a very real and tangible way, what it must be like to be an educator in a school of color that is dealing with severe inequity. And is dealing with a severe lack of resources and but then not just talking about it from a political point of view, but theyre talking about it with their heart, Williams told The Root. I think what this show does on a human level, is it turns the conversation about education from one that is just about policy to one that has people thinking about the Barbara Howards of the world and the Janine Teagues of the world and the Gregory Eddies of the world. And were sitting there wondering, these people who are showing up everyday and choosing to do this job that is not glamorous, that is not easywhy do they not have the resources needed to do that job?

So if we can have people thinking about it from their heart first and then pivot them with conversations like what the Kellogg Foundation is doing and showing we can take these resources and push it towards these characters that exist in real life and support themthen we ca actually affect change. Then were doing more then just entertaining people. At the end of this, when this is all said and done, when this show is finally done: if we can see that the educational system is in a different place then we actually left a mark, he concluded.



For more information about Williams and the Kellogg Foundations initiative and video series, head to www.everychildthrives.com.

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FILE - Republican presidential candidate Nikki Haley greets guests during a campaign gathering, Wednesday, May 24, 2023, in Bedford, N.H. More than a dozen candidates are seeking the nomination, including several long shots who announced their bids in recent weeks, in what is the party's most diverse presidential field ever. Yet Nikki Haley, a former U.N. ambassador and South Carolina governor, is the only woman among the bunch. (AP Photo/Charles Krupa, File)

CHICAGO (AP)  As Republicans keep jumping into the 2024 race for president, one demographic group seems notably lacking: women.

More than a dozen candidates are seeking the nomination, including several long shots who announced their bids in recent weeks, in what is the party's most diverse presidential field ever. Yet Nikki Haley, a former U.N. ambassador and South Carolina governor, is the only woman in the bunch.

America has never had a female commander in chief and Republicans historically have focused less on electing female candidates in general than the Democratic Party. And while women make up more than 50% of the population, they are underrepresented in public office, whether at city halls, state legislatures or in Washington.

In recent years, multiple organizations have helped women win election in higher numbers and capture races at the same rate as men. But they are still much less likely than men to run for office, even if they are equally qualified, research shows.

Women accounted for roughly 21% of the major party candidates for U.S. Senate last year and about 31% of U.S. House candidates, according to the Center for American Women and Politics. That follows election cycles in which each party had a record number of women elected. Women constitute less than one-third of the U.S. House and Senate and 31% of statewide elected offices, even with a record 12 female governors after last year's midterms.

When it comes to the presidency, only five Republican women, including Haley, have undertaken prominent campaigns this century, compared with 12 among Democrats, including six in 2020.

Former tech executive Carly Fiorina was the lone top female candidate in the last open GOP presidential primary, in 2016. Republicans have taken steps to encourage more women to run for federal office since then, but the 2024 contest is unique in that it includes a former president, Donald Trump, who has not hesitated to make sexist attacks against women who challenge him, including Fiorina.

Trump's presence, along with the increasingly toxic and violent sexism that women face as candidates, may be the biggest deterrent.

It really takes a particular personality to be willing to have that kind of fortitude, and Im not sure that there are any examples of it being worth it, said Lauren Leader, the founder of All in Together, which works to get more women involved in the political process.

South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem, who was seen as a potential 2024 Republican candidate, said in a radio interview that she is focused on her job and that with Trump in the race, right now I dont see a path for victory with anybody else."

That sentiment has not prevented long shots such as Miami Mayor Francis Suarez and North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum from running.

Regardless of party, female presidential candidates face sexist assumptions about who is tough enough  or masculine enough  for the office, a theme that has surfaced repeatedly during the primary.

In the run-up to the Faith & Freedom Coalition gathering of conservatives last month, evangelical Christian leader Ralph Reed suggested that GOP presidential candidates need to take stronger positions on abortion restrictions, saying they need a little bit of a testosterone booster shot.

Trump continues to be the favorite for the nomination despite his history of sexism toward women, a recent civil court verdict ordering him to pay $5 million to a woman for sexual assault and defamation, and his other legal troubles.

Haley has both played down and leaned into her gender and race  she is of Indian descent and the daughter of immigrants  saying it is time to put a badass woman in the White House and that electing the first female president is not front of mind.

Asked during a June CNN town hall what it would mean to achieve that historic first, Haley responded that she does not think about it much. If it happens, she said, "it will be nice to have that out of the way." She said that when she was elected the first female governor of South Carolina, she was just kind of relieved that everybody would quit talking about it.

At a Friday gathering of conservative women, Haley praised women as results-oriented, able to prioritize and balance and not having near the drama that the guys have. She repeated a campaign line about why Americans should elect a woman.

Personally, I think to save the country we need to send a badass Republican woman to this White House," Haley said during the Moms for Liberty event.

When women do not run or even consider it, that's now the biggest challenge to more gender parity in public office, according to researchers and advocates. So some groups are trying new recruiting approaches.

One organization, She Should Run, conducted research about what might motivate more women to seek office. The group found that it was not enough to simply encourage women to run in order to close the gender gap. Instead, women were more motivated by the idea of shaping policy around issues that were disproportionately affecting them, such as reproductive rights and climate change, said Erin Loos Cutraro, the founder and CEO.

The group has held webinars for people who are passionate about those issues and worked to help them see how they might get involved, including by running for office. So far, a record number of people have participated in the sessions, the group said, with many attendees not having considered running for office when they registered. The goal is to help some of them see an opportunity, whether that is in 2024 or years from now.

Thats really the goal, is how do we find these women where they are and then bring them into the conversation? Loos Cutraro said. She said it is often a yearslong process for women from the time they first think about running for office until they actually do so. The group, which has encouraged some 40,000 women to run for office since forming in 2011, has a goal of reaching 250,000 by 2030.

Republicans have long shunned so-called identity politics, while Democrats have worked for decades to see more women elected, through groups such as EMILY's List. That has meant GOP women's ranks are smaller in federal office, though there are organizations that formed in recent years and had success in both 2020 and 2022 in electing Republican women to Congress.

There has definitely been much more energy and focus on supporting conservative women running. And theyve had real successes, Leader said. I think at the national level, its just so much more complicated.
21,000 Wagner mercenaries killed in Ukraine and world wants to kill Putin, Zelensky says

At least 21,000 Wagner mercenaries have been killed fighting in Ukraine, according to President Volodymyr Zelensky.

The Ukrainian leader said the private military company had suffered enormous losses, particularly in eastern Ukraine where its most powerful group was fighting.

Our troops killed 21,000 Wagnerites in eastern Ukraine alone, Zelensky told reporters in Kyiv on Saturday, adding that another 80,000 Wagner fighters had been wounded.

These were enormous losses for the Wagner PMC, said Zelensky, who characterized its fighters as a motivated staff of the Russian army and mostly convicts who had nothing to lose.

CNN could not independently verify the claim by Zelensky, made during a press conference with Spanish media to coincide with a visit to Kyiv by Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez.

The trip by Sanchez is his third visit to Ukraine. It comes as Spain takes over the rotating Presidency of the Council of the European Union and follows news that CIA Director William Burns also recently traveled to Ukraine to meet with Zelensky and Ukrainian intelligence officials.

Zelenskys claims about Wagners losses comes just a week after the private military companys boss Yevgeny Prigozhin led his men in an abortive rebellion against Moscow.

Wagner troops had marched toward the Russian capital, taking control of military facilities in two Russian cities in what Prigozhin said was a response to a Russian military attack on a Wagner camp, before a deal brokered by Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko defused the crisis.

The future of the Wagner Group is now unclear, with the deal brokered by Lukashenko requiring Prigozhin to move to Belarus and his fighters given the option of either signing up to the Russian military or enforcement agencies, returning to their families and friends, or also going to Belarus.

In his speech Saturday, Zelensky said Prigozhins rebellion had greatly affected Russian power on the battlefield and could be beneficial to Ukraines counteroffensive.

We need to take advantage of this situation to push the enemy out of our land, Zelensky said.

They are losing the war. They have no more victories on the battlefield in Ukraine, and so they are starting to look for someone to blame, he said.

Zelensky and Russian President Vladimir Putin. - Getty Images

However, he said the counteroffensive would not be rushed because he valued human lives and needed to be strategic in where he sent troops.

Every meter, every kilometer costs lives. You can do something really fast, but the field is mined to the ground, he said. People are our treasure. Thats why we are very careful.

Also during Saturdays conference, Zelensky expressed fears of losing bipartisan support from the United States, following dangerous messages coming from some Republicans.

Mike Pence has visited us and he supports Ukraine  first of all, as an American and then as a Republican, Zelensky said.

We have bipartisan support however there are different messages in their circles regarding support for Ukraine. There are messages coming from some Republicans, sometimes dangerous messages, that there may be less support.

The most important thing for Ukraine is not to lose bipartisan support, he added.

When asked by a reporter if he was in danger and feared for his life, Zelensky responded: It is more dangerous for Putin than for me, honestly. Because its only in Russia that they want to kill me, whereas the entire world wants to kill him.

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A roughly $23 million federal grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation awarded to the City of Columbia Wednesday will address city transit system, GoCoMo, facility improvements.

Columbia Public Works applied for the Rebuilding American Infrastructure with Sustainability and Equity grant early in 2023. The grant award for the city's transit facilities is separate from a RAISE grant application authorized by the Columbia City Council in February to fund a safety study on the business loop, wrote John Ogan, public works spokesperson in an email to the Tribune.

"This new grant requires no local match and is 100 percent federally funded," he wrote about the funds received by public works.

The February grant application by the city includes funding match commitments by the city and The Loop Community Improvement District of $500,000 and $30,000, respectively.

The $23 million RAISE grant received by the city is one of 162 infrastructure projects awarded from a $2.2 billion pot of the discretionary grant program.

"Using the funds in President (Joe) Bidens infrastructure law, we are helping communities in every state across the country realize their visions for new infrastructure projects, said U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, in a news release. This round of RAISE grants is helping create a new generation of good-paying jobs in rural and urban communities alike, with projects whose benefits will include improving safety, fighting climate change, advancing equity, strengthening our supply chain and more.

Other communities in Missouri receiving grant funds included Warsaw, Kansas City and Maryville.

How the funds are used

The $23 million was awarded to remodel the transit maintenance and parking facility, the addition of an upgraded time point located at the planned opportunity campus, and upgraded bus stops along current routes.

The transit maintenance and parking facility is the Grissum Building on Lakeview Avenue.

"What we would like is enough physical space to be able to house all of our buses, as well as the ability to charge all of our electric buses at the same time," Ogan wrote about the planned upgrades. "We will be obtaining six more electric buses in the near future and we require additional space and equipment to store and charge them."

A time point is related to bus scheduling and operator routes matching those schedules, Ogan wrote. It also relates to bus stop amenities.

"(A time point) represents a significant bus stop where the vehicle's arrival is expected to align closely with the schedule, distinguishing it from stops where arrival times may vary," he wrote, adding upgraded amenities can include a shelter, a bench, a trash can or improved lighting. "The opportunity campus hasn't been built, but the grant funds are able to be used through 2027, so we have approximately four years to plan and implement our changes."

Upgraded bus stops includes the addition of bus shelters, which require easements or property owner permission for them, Ogan wrote.

Grant funds cannot go toward hiring staff, for salaries, to purchase buses or for operating costs, he added.

"The funds are strictly for upgrading transit facilities," he wrote.

GoCoMo does not plan on going after a Multimodal Discretionary Project Grant also announced this week as it is for larger scale public works projects that require a significant local match, Ogan wrote.

Charles Dunlap covers local government, community stories and other general subjects for the Tribune. You can reach him at cdunlap@columbiatribune.com or @CD_CDT on Twitter. Subscribe to support vital local journalism.

This article originally appeared on Columbia Daily Tribune: $23 million grant will upgrade bus stops, Grissum Building
3 Lake City townhouses go up in flames

Three Lake City townhouses went up in flames leaving several people without a place to live this weekend.

We captured photos of the damage Sunday morning.

Crews arrived in the area of 26th Avenue northeast late Saturday night where they discovered flames on a second-floor balcony. The fire then spread to two other units.

The Red Cross is offering assistance to the families.
Five people were hospitalized after a motorcycle and car crashed into one another on Interstate 75 in Miami Township early Sunday.

>> RELATED: Several crashes reported as heavy rain, strong winds hit Miami Valley

The Dayton post of Ohio State Highway Patrol, Miami Township Police, and Miami Valley Fire were dispatched to Interstate 75 northbound near Interstate 675 on reports of an injury crash, dispatchers for state troopers said.

The initial report stated that the motorcyclist flew through the air and into the back window of the car during the crash, dispatchers confirmed.

As state troopers, officers, and medics all arrived, they found that several people were injured. Five people in total required medical attention and were transported to Kettering Health and Southview Medical Center (now known as Kettering Health Washington Township) for further care.

Their conditions were unknown at the time of questioning.

Although crashes such as these were considered serious, Montgomery County Regional Dispatch assured that the crash was not deadly.

The crash occurred at 12:38 a.m., during a night storm that rolled through the Miami Valley and caused heavy rain and strong winds to hit. During this time, News Center 7 crews on the street were able to confirm that the visibility was extremely low due to the deluge.

The weather conditions coincided with several crashes reported throughout the region.

Officials always advised, during these types of weather events where visibility remained low while driving, motorists should take precaution by driving slowly and carefully.

The Dayton post of Ohio State Highway Patrol led the investigation into the crash. Miami Township Police and Miami Valley Fire assisted with the incident.

We will update this story as it develops.
Photo Illustration by Elizabeth Brockway/The Daily Beast/Getty/Reuters

Gov. Ron DeSantis recently signed a $116.5 billion budget, but not before vetoing $511 million for mostly local projects.

The veto list is a drop in the bucket compared to past yearsits less than half of the $1 billion-plus he vetoed in what he called the veto equivalent of the Red Wedding three years ago, and far below the $3.1 billion he excised last year.

Some of the vetoes were expected. Nobody expected DeSantis to let the 1619 Festa Black History Month celebration in Orlandosnag $160,000 from the Free State of Florida.

Ron DeSantis Hates the Elites, but Gives Them the Little Guys Money Anyway

But what the veto list lacked in quantity, DeSantis made up for in vindictiveness. Here are seven vetoes that prove the governor can be a prick.

1. Screwing the Farmers

The governors budget vetoes fell hardfor the second year in a rowon top priorities of GOP Agriculture Commissioner Wilton Simpson. DeSantis vetoed $100 million the state uses to pay farmers who agree to preserve their land from development, and he eliminated nearly $30 million for energy programs Simpson oversees.

Simpson, who has stayed neutral in the primary fight between DeSantis and former President Donald Trump, questioned DeSantis support for agriculture, a statement that could haunt the governor as he tries to pick up support in the crucial early nominating state of Iowa.

There is no conceivable reason to target agriculture in a year when we have billions of dollars in reserves, Simpson told Gary Fineout of Politico, who also endured large budget vetoes a year ago when he was still Senate president. Agriculture was harmed today and so was the state of Florida.

Photo Illustration by Elizabeth Brockway/The Daily Beast/Getty

2. Retaliating Over Not Getting an Endorsement

No community was named as frequently in Gov. DeSantis veto list as Sarasota. The regions state senator, a close ally of former President Donald Trump, says thats no accident.

Sen. Joe Gruters, Sarasota Countys longest-serving state lawmaker and the former Chair of the Florida GOP, didnt mince words when asked why he thought the reliably Republican pocket of the Sunshine State was given the cold shoulder.

It was because he had an opinionthe wrong one, in DeSantis eyesof who should be in the Oval Office come January 2025.

The governor is clearly upset I endorsed Donald Trump for president, and so he took it out on the people of Sarasota County, Gruters told the Sarasota Herald-Tribune. Trump and I understand that people come first, and its our job to deliver clean water, jobs, and a better America for the next generation. The governor clearly sees politics differently.

Leaked Audio From a Ron DeSantis Donor Event Is Really Bad News for His Campaign

The projects axed by the governor include items addressing critical state needs. Floridas health-care leaders have warned the state will be short tens of thousands of nurses in the coming years, yet one of the largest single vetoes DeSantis made was a $20 million earmark for a STEM nursing facility at the University of South Floridas Sarasota-Manatee campus.

Without a doubt, this was a cut made in the service of vengeance, not fiscal responsibility.

3. Gunned Down

The biggest public safety measure to get DeSantis approval this year wasnt all that safe. Midway through the legislative session, he signed a bill that removes Floridas current requirement for gun owners to obtain a concealed firearm license.

The permitless carry bill cruised through the legislature despite concerns from some lawmakers, mostly Democrats, who groused that the measure would make Florida more dangerous, which is a view held by the vast majority of Florida voters, including more than 60 percent of Republicans.

Their concerns either didnt grab the governors attention or, more likely, he decided to rub salt in the wound by vetoing gun violence prevention funding.

St. Petersburg Democratic state Sen. Darryl Rousons funding request was the largest of its kind to get scratched out of the budgethe sought $5 million for groups combating gun violence at the community level.

It makes sense to expand programs that are actually doing the work to prevent more gun violence, Rouson said in a release, adding that the funding was needed especially due to the likely increase in gun violence once permitless carry goes into effect July 1.

But Rousons proposal wasnt the only one to get the ax.

Political Cronies and Thugs Are the Winners in DeSantisworld

The governor also nixed two requests from GOP state Sen. Alexis Calatayud that would have provided a combined $3.9 million to the Miami-Dade County Community Violence Intervention Initiative, to provide emotional and mental health support, resources, and interventions in communities most impacted by violence, specifically gun violence.

It should be noted that Calatayud voted for the permitless carry bill, lauding the inclusion of $60 million into school safety programs and resources, but DeSantis apparently wasnt impressed.

Photo Illustration by Elizabeth Brockway/The Daily Beast/Getty

4. Screw the Animals

Yes, DeSantis vetoed funding for an aquarium project at Brevard Zoo, but you can go ahead and credit GOP state Rep. Randy Fine with an assist.

The lawmaker revels in controversy and seemingly lives to dish out acerbic soundbites on culture war issues such as gender-affirming care. But like the resident of the governors mansion, he bristles at pushback from the targets of his barbs. Fine essentially took his rage out on an innocent bystander when he pushed the governor to veto the funding request.

Ron DeSantis War on College Is Bad for Florida Business

Why the flip?

Brevard Zoo had the audacity to considersimply considernot allowing its property to be rented out for political events after a fundraiser held by Fine went sideways, drawing a crowd of protesters who railed against the state senate candidates stance on transgender issues.

Hopefully Brevard Zoo can collect enough liberal tears to fill a salt-water tank, because it didnt take much convincing for the governor to capitulate to Fines petty request.

5. No Soup For You!

South Florida spent a good chunk of the legislative session underwater, and if it was unclear whether DeSantis cared about the emergency, its not anymore.

The governor slashed millions in funding requests that would have paid for emergency planning and infrastructure, which could have prevented South Florida residents from having to find a way to make galoshes and highwaters stylish.

Ron DeSantis Anti-Free Speech Crusade Would Cancel Fox News

Among the $3.14 million in South Florida flood control vetoes: $800,000 to improve Lauderhill Maple Run drainage; $600,000 for drainage to improve the area near the Dolphin Mall; $450,000 to rehab pump stations at the Old Plantation Water Control District; $340,200 to fix failed drainage systems on Southwest Ranches roads; $262,500 to repair deteriorating drainage culverts along the South Broward Drainage Districts (SBDD) C-1 Canal; a $200,000 flood mitigation project in Parkland; and $1.5 million that would have improved sanitary sewer overflows for the Glades Community.

Why all the vetoes? Perhaps because the South Florida lawmakersmost of them Democratswho sponsored the requests also vocally criticized the governor for refusing to tour the damage.

South Florida wasnt alone, either. DeSantis also slashed $1 million for a project to ease flooding in the historic Black community of Midway.

Photo Illustration by Elizabeth Brockway/The Daily Beast/Getty

6. All Things Not Considered

In another move that thwarts public safety, DeSantis nixed more than $6.4 million that the legislature approved in the budget for various projects at public and community radio and broadcast stations throughout the state.

The tranche of items slashed from the budget were aimed at correcting health and safety issues or building deficiencies or to complete renovations at public broadcasting stations.

Most of these stations are, at least in part, listener-funded, and most carry National Public Radio (NPR) content. Its no secret that many people view NPR, and public radio writ large, as a liberal mouthpiece. NPRs own research shows about 26 percent of its listenership identifies as conservative or somewhat conservative, while about 37 percent identify as liberal or somewhat liberal. And efforts to defund NPR among conservatives is nothing new.

Other stations that fell victim to vetoes carry PBS content, which the media bias rating group All Sides ranks as lean[ing] left and which often faces similar criticism from conservatives as NPR.

But DeSantis red pen means these stations, most strapped for cash in a harsh media environment, wont be getting needed safety features.

That includes nearly $400,000 axed from WUSF in Tampa for replacement of an obsolete electrical system; more than $475,000 for WMNF Community Radio in Tampa to replace a generator and fuel tank; nearly $350,000 for WEDU-TV in Tampa to replace mildewed ceiling tiles; more than $100,000 for WFSU in Tallahassee for emergency equipment and a new FAA-compliant tower; more than $800,000 for WJCT in Jacksonville for restroom renovation and damaged floor replacement; and so much more.

While, individually, the vetoes may not seem like much, collectively it looks more like DeSantis has an ax to grind with what he likely perceives as the liberal media out to tank his governorship and presidential ambitions.

7. The Unkindest Cut of All

Moffitt Cancer Center wont be getting a road to its Life Sciences campus in Pasco County after DeSantis vetoed a $5 million line item to fund a connector road.

A Ron DeSantis Presidency Would Be All Authoritarian Culture War Nonsense

Its a weird veto considering DeSantis wife, Casey DeSantis, survived breast cancer thanks to treatment she received at Moffitt Cancer Center.

It would seem like, out of gratitude for his wifes renewed health, hed let the $5 million, which the legislature already approved, slide without taking the time to nix it.

Thats especially true considering the $5 million is a fraction of what has ultimately been sought for Moffitt recently. Last year, DeSantis vetoed a priority package put forth by then-state Senate President Wilton Simpson for $600 million for the Pasco Moffitt campus. And the $5 million in this years budget was far less than the $25 million Rep. Randy Maggard had requested.

What kind of guy snubs the place that may very well have saved his wifes life?

Governor Prick, thats who.

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An abandoned 19th-century farmhouse in New York has remained untouched for 4 decades  take a look inside

Some bottles left inside the home. Bryan Sansivero

Photographer Bryan Sansivero was commissioned to photograph an abandoned farmhouse on Long Island.

It was built in the 1860s and was abandoned a century later  it hasn't been touched for 40 years.

The time-capsule home still has clothing, bottles, and photographs that its owners left behind.

Photographer Bryan Sansivero was commissioned to photograph a house in Commack, New York, that's been abandoned for at least 40 years  and he found a home frozen in time.

Sansivero told Insider there had been a legal battle between the previous owners and the local school district, which was bequeathed the home.

"Once that lawsuit was settled, the district had me come in to photograph everything in the house as it was," Sansivero said.

Keep scrolling to learn more about the house.

The farmhouse in Commack, New York, was built in 1860 and has been abandoned for 40 years.

The exterior of the home. Bryan Sansivero

Once you walk into the home, you can see that the house retains much of its original look.

The entryway. Bryan Sansivero

This gilded mirror's elaborate frame has held up over the last four decades, too.

A mirror. Bryan Sansivero

When looking at the dusty bottles left behind, it's almost like you've traveled back in time.

Bottles left behind. Bryan Sansivero

"I've always been drawn to the unknown. I'm a very curious person and I just have always found abandoned buildings intriguing," Sansivero told Insider.

The hallway. Bryan Sansivero

"I studied filmmaking and did a documentary on an abandoned psychiatric hospital. I realized there was so much more out there than just that place," he said.

The closet. Bryan Sansivero

This is Sansivero's favorite photo of the house. "I think it gives a good overall feeling that the house had," he said.

A study. Bryan Sansivero

Whoever lived here left some of their photos behind. People usually feel "bewilderment over how things can be left behind in places" after looking at Sansivero's work, he said.

Abandoned photos. Bryan Sansivero

Sansivero shared with Insider some of the information he learned about the house's history.

An abandoned mannequin. Bryan Sansivero

"It was an old farmstead built in 1860," he said. "An elderly woman who was loved by her community lived there alone until she passed, I believe, in the 1960s."

A full dresser. Bryan Sansivero

But he said there's more to the story. "I could write a small book" on the house, he added.

The attic. Bryan Sansivero

His advice for aspiring photographers: "Don't be afraid of making art." He added, "Art can come from the strangest places so, whatever you're feeling, just follow that and I think amazing things will happen."

The living room. Bryan Sansivero

Sansivero regularly shares photos of his work on Instagram.

An old shirt. Bryan Sansivero

Source: Instagram

He also published a book, aptly titled "American Decay." As the title suggests, it is filled with homes like this one, left untouched for decades  just waiting for someone to come along and rediscover them.

Inside the home. Bryan Sansivero

Read the original article on Insider
Supreme Court Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson, one of two nonwhite women on the bench who dissented from the majority. (J. Scott Applewhite / Associated Press)

There is no way around this: The Supreme Courts split decision overturning affirmative action in college admissions is a perfect example of how racial diversity enriches us, and why it should be enshrined as a goal in our laws.

Writing for the conservative majority in cases involving the admissions policies of Harvard College and the University of North Carolina, Chief Justice John Roberts paints a picture of a country where all have an equal start, where individuals are responsible for their own fates, where systemic racism not only doesnt matter but really doesnt even exist at all. Oh sure, he glancingly regrets horrendous Supreme Court decisions of yore, such as Plessy vs. Ferguson, which affirmed the doctrine of separate but equal.

But thats all in the past, people!

Affirmative action, the court has declared, is incompatible with the equal protection clause of the 14th Amendment.

Eliminating racial discrimination means eliminating all of it, Roberts writes, as if centuries of discrimination that favored white people have not produced a legacy that hobbles people of color, especially Black people, today.

At the risk of stating the blindingly obvious, wrote Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson in a scathing  dare I say Scalia-esque  dissent, the Fourteenth Amendment was intended to undo the effects of a world where laws systematically subordinated Black people and created a racial caste system.

We're all created equal?

Wouldnt it be pretty to think so?

In their dissents, Justice Sonia Sotomayor and Jackson see the world through an entirely different lens from the majority. As women of color who presumably do not take all-expenses-paid vacations with white billionaires, they bring a diversity of viewpoint to the court that is healthy and necessary.

Read more: Abcarian: Why is it that a journalist has higher ethical standards than a Supreme Court justice?

Jackson argues persuasively that we are not even close to living in a country where all are on an equal playing field, and that holistic admissions policies that take race into account as one factor are important steps toward a more equal world.

With let-them-eat-cake obliviousness, today, the majority pulls the ripcord and announces colorblindness for all by legal fiat, writes Jackson. But deeming race irrelevant in law does not make it so in life.

She asks us to imagine two college applicants from North Carolina: John, who is white, would be the seventh generation of his family to attend the University of North Carolina. James, who is Black and most likely descended from enslaved forebears, would be the first member of his family to attend college. Does the race of these applicants properly play a role in UNCs holistic merits-based application process? she asks. The school has no racial quota system. It only takes race into account as one of many factors.

Read more: Abcarian: DeSantis picks a cruel, inhuman immigration fight with Newsom

Our newest justice offers a history lesson to her fellow conservatives about why it should. A page of history is worth a volume of logic, she writes, quoting Justice Oliver Wendell Holmes. Her insinuation: The majority cannot see the forest for the trees.

Given the lengthy history of state-sponsored, race-based preferences in America (which have always favored white people), she writes, to say that anyone is now victimized if a college considers whether that legacy of discrimination has unequally advantaged its applicants fails to acknowledge the well documented intergenerational transmission of inequality that still plagues our country.

She lists the familiar ways that the prosperity of Black Americans has been hindered by laws and government policies.

Sharecropping prevented freed Black people from attaining property and prosperity. Vagrancy laws criminalized free Black men. Racially exclusionary zoning, redlining, the inability of Black people to qualify for FHA loans or obtain credit. Between the boom years of 1934 and 1968, Jackson notes, 98% of FHA loans went to white Americans. The ensuing wealth disparity continues to be stark. Gaps in health outcomes and educational achievement persist.

For present purposes, she writes, it is significant that, in so excluding Black people, government policies affirmatively operated  one could say, affirmatively acted  to dole out preferences to those, who if nothing else, were not Black. (Italics mine.)

Read more: Abcarian: The persecution of an abortion doctor who treated a pregnant child was a shameful political farce

For most of this countrys history, being Black was an automatic disqualifier to college admission (and so much else).

Holistic programs, writes Jackson, reflect the reality that Black students have only relatively recently been permitted to get into the admissions game at all. Such programs also reflect universities clear-eyed optimism that, one day, race will no longer matter.

It does seems like a contradiction, she notes, but the only way we'll become a country where all races are equal is by taking race into account to correct historical inequities.

We are at a bizarre moment in the racial history of America.

The Supreme Court has ruled against colleges taking the race of applicants into consideration, yet, at the very same time, many serious discussions about reparations for the descendants of enslaved Americans are taking place, in California and elsewhere.

Read more: Abcarian: What Clarence Thomas calls hospitality looks a lot more like corruption

And yes, its true that most Americans oppose the concept of reparations. Of course they do. When you have benefited from the color of your skin over generations, or do not care to recognize that others have been and continue to be penalized, its very easy to believe that everyone has an equal shot at health, wealth and education.

That is not true and never was.

Its a shame that our conservative Supreme Court justices have to pretend otherwise.

@robinkabcarian

If its in the news right now, the L.A. Times Opinion section covers it. Sign up for our weekly opinion newsletter.

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
This story previously aired on Sept 10, 2022. It was updated on July 1, 2023.

Lawrence "Larry" Rudolph and his wife, Bianca, were getting ready to head back to the United States after a safari vacation in Zambia, Africa, in October 2016 when tragedy struck.

Larry, a Pittsburgh-area dentist, said he was in the bathroom, heard a gunshot, and found his wife bleeding, dead on the bedroom floor. He said while Bianca was packing the shotgun, it must have accidentally fired.

Larry's description raises questions, says retired FBI Supervisory Special Agent and CBS News consultant James Gagliano. "It boggles the mind that two experienced hunters, for this to have been an accident," he tells "48 Hours."

Game scout Spencer Kakoma says he also has questions. He insists after the hunt, the guns were emptied of ammunition.

Larry had his wife's body quickly cremated in Zambia, which led a friend of Bianca's to doubt this was an accident. Soon after Bianca's death, the friend called the FBI. According to an FBI complaint, she also said Lawrence was having an affair and had been verbally abusive to Bianca. The friend also told the FBI that the couple fought over money.

Investigators spent five years working the case. Larry was arrested in December 2021 for the murder of his wife. He maintains that he is innocent, and his attorneys write in a statement to "48 Hours" that the case is built " without any real evidence, no eyewitnesses, no forensics, no anything "

So, what happened to Bianca Rudolph?

DEATH ON SAFARI

Nearly two weeks after Bianca Rudolph's death while on a hunting trip in Zambia, family and friends in Arizona gathered to remember her at her funeral. But at husband Larry Rudolph's Pennsylvania dental practice, there was a hush in the air.

Sherry Houck: Larry never talked about Bianca's death ever.  he was saying to everyone not to talk about it.  it made it, sort of, suspicious.

Sherry Houck worked as a dental assistant in Dr. Rudolph's Three Rivers Dental Group for nearly eight years. The lucrative practice, with five offices in the Pittsburgh area, specializes in sedation dentistry, providing anesthesia for fearful patients.

Sherry Houck: I liked everything about how we treated our patients  And I really believed in everything we did and  how he did it.

After years building his successful practice, Dr. Rudolph, says Sherry, was now spending limited time in the office. He and Bianca had lived in homes in Pittsburgh and Arizona. The couple had met while Larry was in dental school and Bianca was at the University of Pittsburgh.

Meghan Schiller: Larry and Bianca got married in the early '80s, shortly after  she graduated from college.

Meghan Schiller is a reporter at Pittsburgh's CBS affiliate, KDKA.

Meghan Schiller: They proceeded to have two kids. They had Julian, who is their son, who's now an attorney in Florida, and they had a daughter, Ana, who is now following in her father's footsteps.

Ana, a friend of Sherry's, is also a dentist at the practice.

Sherry Houck: Ana described her mom as, like, an angel. She loved her mom.  People that knew Bianca Rudolph described her as a very kind, caring person.

Sherry never met Bianca, and there may have been a reason why: she says Larry was having an affair with the woman who managed the offices, Lori Milliron.

Sherry Houck: Larry and Lori's affair just seemed like it was just very open  as far as I know, it was probably going on for 20 years.  it was just  uncomfortable and you just didn't talk about it.

In the office, Sherry saw different sides of Larry.

Sherry Houck: Larry could be very nice, and he could change  attitude within, a matter of minutes.

That erratic behavior, Sherry says, was one of the reasons she left her job.

Sherry Houck: He could  throw tempers. And we would, sort of, just call it like he was  going Rudolph.

Bianca and Larry Rudolph were avid hunters who traveled all over the world. / Credit: Larry Rudolph/Facebook

Something Larry did enjoy talking about in the office, and took pride in, was his hobby: big game hunting.

Sherry Houck: Larry Rudolph and Bianca Rudolph were avid hunters. That was a huge part of their life.  They were both, like, very well known for it.

Rudolph served for several years as the President of Safari Club International, a group that promotes hunting. He traveled the world, recording messages for members.

LARRY RUDOLPH [Safari Club International video]: "I'm here on the banks of the Kafue River in Zambia  I've been doing some lion hunting  and just having a great adventure."

His term, though, would be tainted by claims he'd damaged the club's reputation through alleged misconduct, including supposed adultery. Larry denied the claims and sued for defamation. The case was ultimately settled, but Larry was ousted as a club member.

But his passion for hunting endured and in 2016, he and Bianca headed to a favorite location: Kafue National Park in Zambia.

Meghan Schiller: Kafue National Park is considered a big game paradise.  the oldest and the most prestigious national park in that area of southern Africa. Just to put it in scale, it's the size of New Jersey.

In 2016, the Rudolphs traveled to a favorite location, Kafue National Park in Zambia. / Credit: CBS News

The park has one section that is a protected wildlife sanctuary and an adjacent area, referred to as game management, that allows hunting. On the trip, the Rudolphs stayed in a two-room cabin consisting of a bedroom and a bathroom.

Meghan Schiller: Bianca wants to finally hunt a leopard.  She'd been trying for years to hunt a leopard.

The trip lasted about 10 days. A time that was happy, according to Spencer Kakoma, the local game scout accompanying the couple.

Spencer Kakoma: They were laughing at each other, kissing each other, hugging each other

Debora Patta: Did you think they were a happily married couple?

Spencer Kakoma: I  I was even  admiring that 'cause I'm also married.

Debora Patta: And did you see any tension between Larry and Bianca Rudolph?

Spencer Kakoma: No, I didn't see any tension

Bianca never did shoot a leopard. And on the final day of the safari, before the Rudolphs went to their cabin, Spencer says, as is daily protocol, the guns were emptied of all ammunition.

Debora Patta: And you saw Bianca Rudolph cleaning her gun of live ammunition?

Spencer Kakoma: I saw  Bianca Rudolph doing that.  It was cleaned, or it was clear. There was no  ammunition which was there.

Debora Patta: You saw it with your own eyes?

Spencer Kakoma: Yes

It was the end of the Rudolphs' Zambian hunting trip. They were supposedly packing up and getting ready to fly home. But then, Bianca Rudolph suffered a fatal gunshot wound.

According to police in Zambia, on the final day of their safari, October 11, 2016, Larry Rudolph claimed Bianca was packing a gun in the bedroom of their two-room cabin when he heard a shotgun blast from the bathroom. / Credit: CBS News

Spencer was working about 30 yards away when he heard the gun shot and ran to the cabin, finding 56-year-old Bianca Rudolph dead on the floor, shot in the heart. The weapon was a 12-gauge shot gun. Spencer says the gun, partially in a soft-sided case, was next to her. And Larry Rudolph seemed inconsolable, sobbing.

Spencer Kakoma: He's crying, crying, "Let me just kill myself because my wife, she has committed suicide. She has killed herself. Want to kill myself also."

Spencer says Larry first claimed Bianca died by suicide, shooting herself intentionally, while he was in the bathroom. And he says Larry was so distraught, that he ran to a nearby river saying he wanted to jump in and drown himself. Spencer says he calmed Larry down and they went back to the cabin. But now, Larry had a different version of events. It was no longer a suicide, but that Bianca accidentally shot herself packing up the gun.

Debora Patta: Were you surprised that a shot had gone off?

Spencer Kakoma: Yeah. That's one of the thing which  made me to suspect.  I saw Bianca Rudolph removing the ammunition from the  their guns.

Debora Patta: So, how do you think ammunition got into the shotgun?

Spencer Kakoma: I think there must be just someone who loaded it.

Debora Patta: Somebody loaded that gun 

Spencer Kakoma: Yes.

Things were not adding up for Spencer. He and Larry Rudolph went to the local police station. Rudolph was interviewed for about 30 minutes by now retired Police Commander Roston Yeyenga, and Larry told him Bianca accidentally shot herself while packing the gun.

Roston Yeyenga: He heard the gunshot and a scream he said he rushed to the bedroom, and then he found the wife lying down in a pool of blood. [was it face down?]

Debora Patta: Did you believe him?

Roston Yeyenga: I believed him because I wasn't there. I wasn't there.

Commander Yeyenga sent his investigators to the scene, who told him it matched Dr. Rudolph's description of events. They believed the shotgun, found approximately 3 feet from Bianca's body, was discharged while inside its case, and reported that Dr. Rudolph had tried to resuscitate his wife.

Debora Patta: It was decided that this was an accident?

Roston Yeyenga: Yes  this is the report that we received.

The police report, dated two days after Bianca's death concluded:

"Dr. Lawrence Rudolph rushed to the bedroom only to find his wife lying on the floor bleeding."  "The findings further suggested that the firearm was loaded from the previous hunting activities  causing the firearm to accidentally fire."

James Gagliano: This is to me a little bit astounding that they would've made that conclusive, declarative statement that  this was absolutely an accident, so soon after Ms. Rudolph died.

WHAT HAPPENED TO BIANCA?

Bianca Rudolph's death in Zambia was devastating for her daughter Ana.

Sherry Houck: Ana always said Bianca was, like, the best mom and just did everything  was, like, a very good person and was very  wholesome and kind.

Dental assistant Sherry Houck says Larry Rudolph didn't tell Ana or her brother Julian about their mother's passing for nearly a week. Ana had troubling questions about what had happened.

Sherry Houck: She had no idea whether her mom got shot in the face or the chest or anywhere  She just would say, "I want to know what happened to my mom."

And at the Kafue National Park there were doubts too  from the moment the gunshot rang out early that October morning.

David Katz: It's a loud boom.

David Katz is a ballistics expert and former Special Agent at the Drug Enforcement Agency. "48 Hours" asked him to review documents in this case. He says the blast from the Rudolph's 12-gauge shotgun would have been ferocious.

Spencer Kakoma: Bianca Rudolph screamed after the gunshot.

Game scout Spencer Kakoma instantly knew that sound meant trouble.

Spencer Kakoma:  she didn't scream "help" or  she screamed  "ah!" Then that's how we rushed there. Within 15 seconds, we reached there. She was dead already.

From the beginning, Spencer says he had questions about Larry's version of events, including when Larry told him he was in the bath when he heard the gunshot, and raced out to find Bianca dead.

Debora Patta: But when you saw him, he was fully dressed?

Spencer Kakoma: Dressed, with  with  with  shoes.

Spencer Kakoma:  it confused me.

Debora Patta: Fifteen seconds to be fully clothed with shoes is pretty quick.

Spencer Kakoma: Exactly.

But local police say Larry told them he was wrapped in a towel when Spencer arrived.

Kafue National Park Investigator Masuwa Musese also had questions about what he saw in the couple's cabin. He says he observed the wound on Bianca's chest, the gun nearby, and wondered how she could have accidently shot herself in the heart while handling the long-barreled weapon.

Debora Patta: What did you think? What was your theory?

Masuwa Musese: To me  I suspected this to be a foul play. Because the way the firearm was lying. The way the deceased was lying. The way the bullet went through. Because to me to say that she shot herself  I doubt it.

Debora Patta: So, Mr. Musese, did you ever voice your suspicions of foul play to the Zambian police?

Masuwa Musese: I voiced my suspicion to the police.

Debora Patta: And what did they say in response?

Masuwa Musese: In respond, the Zambia Police told me that  the police will really investigate at the bottom of the issue.

Debora Patta: But did they?

Masuwa Musese: They didn't.

Within days, says KDKA reporter Meghan Schiller, local officials allowed Bianca's remains to be cremated in Zambia.

Meghan Schiller: Even the paper over there reported what had happened as an accidental shooting.

And the comments on social media were people saying  that it seemed suspicious to them.

One reader suggested, "This doesn't sound right. Something's fishy here."

And it was suspicious to one of Bianca's friends. Certain Bianca was opposed to cremation for religious reasons, the friend made a call about two weeks later and set a chain of events in motion.

Mary Fulginiti: There was one point when this case became an active international investigation, and that is when Bianca's friend called the attache of the FBI in South Africa and said that she suspected foul play.

Mary Fulginiti is a former federal prosecutor and CBS News consultant. She says Bianca's friend told the FBI about Larry's affair  said Larry had been verbally abusive to Bianca and reported that Larry and Bianca had fights about money.

Mary Fulginiti: She opened up a Pandora's box as to why Lawrence would want to kill his wife.

Even the consular chief at the U.S. Embassy in Zambia had suspicions. He spoke on the phone with Larry Rudolph just hours after Bianca's death.

Mary Fulginiti: The consular chief had a bad feeling  he said, because Lawrence quickly turned to cremation and getting out of the country, which he thought was highly suspect.

The consular chief was a former Marine, with decades of experience with weapons. Unbeknownst to Larry, he decided to inspect Bianca's body before it was cremated. He measured the shotgun wound and took photos.

Meghan Schiller: The consular chief said based on looking at Bianca's body, he didn't think there was any way that she could've done this to herself  that she could've been leaning on the shotgun. He said it looked like someone was holding the shotgun several feet away and fired it at her.

The consular chief turned his photos and notes over to the FBI. An inquiry into Bianca's death was underway. Retired FBI Supervisory Special Agent and CBS News consultant James Gagliano says international investigations take time.

James Gagliano: This case is being investigated outside of the United States. It presents a ton of different problems that you have to deal with.

Back home, life went on for Larry. The FBI kept working the case both in the U.S. and in Zambia. And investigators eventually made their way back to game scout Spencer Kakoma.

Debora Patta: So, five years later 

Spencer Kakoma: That's when they called 

Debora Patta:  you heard from the FBI?

Spencer Kakoma: Yes. That's when they called me.

Debora Patta: Were you surprised?

Spencer Kakoma: Yes, I was surprised.

Over the course of five years, FBI investigators interviewed numerous people, reviewed documents, photos and conducted forensics tests - eventually filing a complaint  listing evidence of possible foul play in Bianca Rudolph's death.

James Gagliano: The  complaint lays out a neat road map of a lot of circumstantial evidence that points in the direction of Lawrence Rudolph as the murderer of his wife, Bianca.

ACCIDENT OR MURDER?

Zambia's Kafue National Park is vast, stunning  serene. But retired Police Commander Roston Yeyenga will never forget the day back in 2016 when that gunshot rang out from the Rudolph's cabin, killing Bianca Rudolph.

Debora Patta: When your officers went to the scene  what did they see?

Roston Yeyenga: What they told me was that they found a dead body, lying facing upwards.

And years later he still recalls his conversation with Dr. Rudolph.

Roston Yeyenga: He seemed to be sorrowful, you know?

Debora Patta: He was very sorrowful?

Roston Yeyenga: Yeah, you know, when you lose your beloved one, you can be in that mood, yeah. I could even see some tears in his eyes.

Yeyenga says the initial investigation was not rushed and says at the time no one told him they suspected Larry had anything to do with his wife's death.

Debora Patta: What is the most powerful thing that he said to you that convinced you this man is innocent?

Roston Yeyenga: To say he was innocent. That was his story.

Debora Patta: You're so easily convinced. I just have to tell you a story and you believe me.

Roston Yeyenga: It's coming from your own mouth. I can believe you. Whatever story you tell me, I can believe it.

Bianca Rudolph was an experienced hunter. There were questions early on about how she could have accidentally shot herself in the chest with a long-barreled weapon. / Credit: Safari Hunting Blog via Daily Mail

But could an experienced hunter like Bianca accidentally shoot herself in the heart while placing a long-barreled shotgun into a gun case?

David Katz: For the shooters out in the audience, everyone's gonna understand immediately.  There's a visceral feeling, no, don't do it.

Ballistics expert David Katz says if that happened Bianca would have been pointing the muzzle at herself, ignoring safety protocol.

David Katz: Whether the gun is loaded or unloaded  if you know your way around guns, you would never under any circumstances point that weapon toward you or another human being.

Katz often works with firearms at the company he owns, Global Security Group. At our request he reviewed the initial FBI complaint.

David Katz: The complaint, in fairness to  to Larry Rudolph  it's just the government's version of events.  It's a one-sided document. So, I want, I want to be completely fair to Larry Rudolph.

According to the complaint, the FBI interviewed a Zambian ballistics expert who performed what's called a drop test to determine if the gun could have accidentally misfired if Bianca dropped it on the ground.

David Katz: So, the question is  if you slam the weapon hard enough, if you drop it, if you bang it on the  on the ground, will that weapon discharge?

The Zambian ballistics expert repeatedly dropped the gun  most likely loaded with a dummy round  about four-and-a-half feet onto cement and reported the gun "did not misfire."

The complaint lists some of the other FBI findings, including the results of a series of tests using a 12-gauge shotgun of the same make and model as the gun that killed Bianca, and a soft-sided gun case like the Rudolph's.

Meghan Schiller: They did gun tests. They did a study with people who were about the same height as Bianca and had similar arm lengths.

The FBI performed a reach study which Katz says would determine if Bianca could have reached the trigger while packing the shotgun into a gun bag. Fifteen women who were near Bianca's height were tested. None was able to reach the trigger of the shotgun while zipping the case.

"48 Hours" asked Katz to demonstrate how the test might have been done, with the help of a woman who is 5'4 ". Bianca was 5'4".

DAVID KATZ [demo]: This is not a live weapon 

DAVID KATZ [demo]: So, I'm going to measure your arm

David Katz measures the arm of a women nearly the same height as Bianca Rudolph to demonstrate how the FBI conducted its reach study, which Katz says would determine if Bianca could have reached the trigger while packing the shotgun into a gun bag. / Credit: CBS News

FBI analysts used a photo of Bianca to measure her arm length. They estimated Bianca's longest possible right arm length at 28.75 inches.

DAVID KATZ [demo]: 29 inches. So, your reach is slightly longer than the maximum reach as estimated by the FBI.

The gun used in this demonstration is not the same make and model as the Rudolph's gun.

DAVID KATZ [demo]: It is not a weapon; it just looks like one.

It's a prop gun  non-functional and not capable of holding a bullet. According to the FBI, the model of gun the Rudolphs had was approximately 31.1875 inches from trigger to muzzle. We attached a wooden dowel to the barrel of the prop gun to make it match that length.

DAVID KATZ [demo]: So, I'm gonna take this weapon. I'm gonna point it at your chest right where the wound on the victim was placed.  the idea is that somehow the weapon could be discharged accidentally as if it was being pushed into a gun case. So, let's bend over  Keep goin', keep goin'. Can you  if you  if you can touch the ground even with it. Now try to stretch out and touch the trigger.

DAVID KATZ [demo]: You're not on the trigger. You're close to the trigger.

Next, Katz added a gun case similar to the one the Rudolph's owned.

DAVID KATZ [demo]: All right, let's say you were zipping  can you reach your hand in and touch the trigger?

WOMAN: Not under this angle.

DAVID KATZ: Almost, you can almost get there.

The woman in our demonstration was able to reach the trigger.

DAVID KATZ [demo]: Just about, just about.

WOMAN: It's very difficult.

DAVID KATZ: Yeah.

DAVID KATZ: I guess what I'm left with is this conclusion:  Possible. Unlikely, but, you know, with a sufficient leaning forward.  But that would  then suggest without  without any doubt a contact shot.

A contact shot is a gunshot wound occurring when the muzzle of the gun is in direct contact with the body at the moment the gun fires.

David Katz: This is a 12-gauge shotgun shell.  it contains  pellets  of double-aught buckshot.

In a contact shot, there is no time for the pellets to spread  instead they go straight into the tissue in one tight group the same diameter as the gun barrel.

David Katz: A contact shot, you're gonna get this [his hands touching]. Further away you're gonna get this [his hands separate], further away you're gonna get this [his hands separate further].

Katz says those photos of Bianca's body taken by the consular chief in Zambia may rule out death by a contact shot.

David Katz: The most critically important issue in this case is how far from her body was the muzzle of that shotgun when the rounds were fired?

When the consular chief took those photos, he also measured Bianca's shotgun wound  and noted the pellets covered approximately 6 centimeters in diameter  roughly 2-and-a-half inches.

David Katz: That  pattern would be impossible if the muzzle had been pressed against the victim's body.

So, from what distance would a weapon have to be fired to cause a 2-and-a-half-inch wound?

We asked Katz to use a real shotgun to show "48 Hours" how rounds fired from different distances can make different sized wounds. We didn't have access to key information about the Rudolph's gun, but the long barrel of this gun measures the same distance from trigger to muzzle  approximately 31.1875 inches.

Katz fired into a block made of ballistic gelatin designed to simulate the effects of bullet wounds in human tissue.

SAFETY OFFICER: Fire!

David Katz [pointing to bullet holes in the gelatin]: When I fired the last round that was from 10 feet, there are discernible pellet wounds here. Here. Here. This is why the consular chief was suspicious when he saw the wound. Because he saw a wound that was more like this.

FBI investigators also compared shot patterns created by firing from various distances and estimated that Bianca's wound depicted in the photographs was "created by a shot from a distance of between 2 and 3-and-one-half feet." The complaint's conclusion: "Bianca Rudolph was not killed by an accidental discharge ..." And it wasn't just ballistics catching the attention of the FBI.

James Gagliano: This is  a case that's gonna be made on the totality of the circumstances.

AN ARREST

Sherry Houck: Ana always said  how she  wished she had more time with her mom.

Sherry Houck says Bianca's death continues to haunt the Rudolphs' daughter, Ana.

Sherry Houck: She was devastated that she couldn't even say goodbye to her.

It appears Larry Rudolph wasted no time setting up house with his longtime rumored girlfriend Lori Milliron in Paradise Valley.

Meghan Schiller: Within weeks she had moved into their home in Arizona.

Larry Rudolph and Lori Milliron / Credit: Instagram/Lori Milliron

Rudolph's business continued to thrive. He and Lori split their time between Pittsburgh, Arizona and a vacation home in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico.

Sherry Houck: After a while, I thought, well, if it wasn't an accident, wouldn't he have been arrested by now?  Nothing's really happened.

But in December 2021, more than five years after Bianca's death, Rudolph's new life with Lori was about to change. And that FBI complaint would turn out to be the key.

Meghan Schiller: The federal prosecutors and the FBI agents had decided that they had enough information to essentially charge Larry with crimes.

Lori Milliron's attorney John Dill says the pair was at the Cabo home.

John Dill: They were going down there for a vacation and having a return flight.  He wasn't fleeing or disappearing, or anything like that.

But their holiday came to a sudden and surprising end when local authorities arrested Rudolph.

John Dill: Lori's reaction when he was arrested, obviously  she was shocked.

Mexican police executed a warrant for Lawrence Rudolph's arrest for the foreign murder of Bianca Rudolph and for mail fraud relating to Rudolph collecting Bianca's life insurance. The FBI said the insurance never should have been paid because it believed Rudolph murdered Bianca.

Meghan Schiller: Larry Rudolph was the beneficiary, and he was the recipient of nearly $5 million of insurance money.

Those millions were spread out over nine separate policies. One of the insurance companies where Larry mailed a claim is located in Colorado, so that's where the case would be tried.

Meghan Schiller: Bianca died on October 11th, and the first claim was submitted on October 31st.

John Dill: I'm not sure if there's a time period when there's an accidental death that somebody's supposed to wait so it doesn't look wrong.

In a court filing, the defense claimed there was no financial motive for the alleged crime, asserting that Rudolph's dental practice alone was worth $8 million. What's more, Dill says the fact that all nine policies were paid proves Bianca's death was as Rudolph described and Zambian officials ruled: an accident.

John Dill: You'll see insurance companies went through a full investigation, including goin' to Africa.

But Mary Fulginiti says not so fast. For one thing, the FBI's resources would have allowed for a much more thorough investigation into Bianca's cause of death.

Mary Fulginiti: They just have access to more things. They have ballistic experts,  access to the consular chief, and other witnesses in Africa that I'm not sure the  insurance firm had access to, to talk to.

Dr. Larry Rudolph was arrested in December 2021, more than five years after his wife Bianca's death, charged with foreign murder and mail fraud. / Credit: Three Rivers Dental

Within days of his arrest, Rudolph was extradited to Denver. A grand jury was convened there to hear evidence about his case.

Meghan Schiller: Everyone in Pittsburgh was talking about how this dentist, who was a well-known, respected dentist, could possibly be accused by the FBI.

Sherry says word of Rudolph's arrest hit Ana hard.

Sherry Houck: She was just devastated.  I called to check on her and  she would not talk about her dad being arrested. She just talked to me about anything but that.

Lori Milliron followed Rudolph to Denver. She was about to become involved in the case as well by way of a subpoena.

John Dill: She was called to go before the grand jury.

John Dill: And she was in town for his bond hearing and went and testified.

About two weeks after Rudolph's arrest, that grand jury handed down their indictment.

NEWS REPORT: FBI agents believe their investigation will prove he killed his wife while on vacation before allegedly collecting millions in insurance money.

It seemed that the multimillion-dollar windfall of insurance money Rudolph received wasn't the only motive the FBI believes was behind Bianca's murder. In the complaint, it says Lori Milliron had given Rudolph an ultimatum.

Meghan Schiller: "You have one year to get rid of the practice and leave your wife."

Dill says there was no ultimatum. That allegation came from a disgruntled employee according to a defense motion.

John Dill: All we can say is that's not what the evidence is gonna be.

As for the speed of Bianca's cremation, Rudolph's attorney says that's no attempt at a cover-up  that both he and Bianca had expressed their final wishes.

Mary Fulginiti: The defense is gonna argue  Well, they have a will, and in the will, it was the directive of both parties to be cremated.

Murders on foreign soil are difficult to prove. And the length of the investigation might actually be a liability.

Mary Fulginiti: What the defense is gonna do is try to make it look like this case, which is five-plus years old, has stale testimony, stale witnesses, stale everything.

But it turns out that years after Bianca Rudolph died, there would be something new after all: another arrest that no one saw coming.

A SURPRISING ARREST

The truth about the death of Bianca Rudolph, wife and mother, has remained as elusive as the Zambian leopard she hunted. Her husband stood charged with murder and mail fraud. Then come February 2022 this case would grow even more complex, when Lori Milliron was charged.

Meghan Schiller: As if the story couldn't get any stranger, now we know that his alleged longtime girlfriend Lori Milliron  is now facing federal charges.

Seven federal counts alleging she provided false and misleading testimony to a grand jury sitting in the District of Colorado. Just over a month after that testimony Lori Milliron was arrested.

Meghan Schiller: She's accused of lying about her relationship with Larry. She's accused of lying about what Larry said in the days and months following Bianca's sudden death.

John Dill: I think she was shocked.  She did not expect this to happen.

A 64-year-old woman, she faces as much as 30 years in prison for those charges. But her attorney John Dill emphasizes 

John Dill: There's no allegations by the government that she was somehow involved or had anything to do with what happened to Bianca Rudolph in 2016.

Lori Milliron / Credit: Lori Milliron

Dill says that the speculation and the charges against his client are all false.

John Dill: The truth is Lori Milliron is not a criminal. She didn't perjure herself. Didn't lie to the grand jury.

But former prosecutor Mary Fulginiti says there may be another reason the government filed those seven counts against Lori Milliron.

Mary Fulginiti: They might have also charged her because they would like to put some pressure on her to cooperate.

Pressuring Rudolph's longtime girlfriend to be the star witness against him.

Mary Fulginiti: If I was the prosecutor in this case, I would absolutely be hoping that she was gonna come forward, and possibly cooperate against him, and she's the one witness that could possibly do him in.

Meanwhile, from home detention in Arizona, Lori Milliron is still connected with Rudolph, running his multimillion-dollar dentistry practice, but forbidden to contact him.

John Dill: Still attempting to work, yeah, from where she is. It's a lot more difficult, obviously.

The government planned to try them together in the same courtroom  an outcome their lawyers fought against and lost. The two on trial together was a powerful image that could have impacted Lori Milliron.

Mary Fulginiti: Lori Milliron does not want to be sitting next to Lawrence Rudolph at trial, because he's charged with murder  and she wants nothing to do with that, and she doesn't want any of that prejudice to spill over to her, which will ultimately say, "Oh well she was a part of it." I mean she's the lover.

And in a pre-trial affidavit filed by Rudolph's attorneys, and signed by Lori, she wrote that, "Larry and I were romantically involved and Mrs. Bianca Rudolph was aware of that." The suggestion: the affair was an open secret, not a motive for murder. But the prosecution would soon test the loyalties of Lori Milliron and Larry Rudolph.

Mary Fulginiti: And see if they stay aligned. Or if at the end of the day she does ultimately cooperate.

John Dill: Our defense is basically that what the government is saying, not only can't they prove it, that's not the facts.

Over the years, and across an ocean, facts have been hard to come by in this case. Retired FBI special agent James Gagliano knows time can be a prosecution's toughest challenge.

James Gagliano: Memories get rusty and cloudy. Documents get lost or destroyed. With every day that passes, it gets more and more difficult to close a loop here, get the evidence you need, and make a conviction.

Mary Fulginiti: There's a lot of hurdles that have to be overcome here, so it's by no means an easy prosecution.

Seven-thousand miles and a world away, Bianca Rudolph's death has impacted those who barely knew her. Former police commander Roston Yeyenga still thinks it was all a terrible accident.

Roston Yeyenga: There will be no evidence connecting him to the murder.

Debora Patta: There'll be no evidence connecting Dr. Rudolph to the murder?

Roston Yeyenga: I don't think so. From the experience that I had, no.

But one-time scout Spencer Kakoma was so shaken by this experience that he quit his job. He believes that in his beautiful country, as Bianca Rudolph hunted, she became the prey.

Spencer Kakoma: Yes, I'm just happy with the American investigation. He wanted to escape, but they have managed to corner him.

Larry Rudolph's legal team provided "48 Hours" with the following statement:

"Dr. Rudolph is innocent. The Zambian authorities who were there and investigated said so. The insurance companies who paid the claim after they investigated said so. Strangely, five years later, the feds brought charges without any real evidence  no eye-witnesses, no forensics, no anything.  except for some speculation sprinkled into a chasm of conjecture."

Ana and Julian have lost their mother. Sources tell us they have expressed support for their father. And now what really happened in the country Bianca Rudolph cherished, will be decided in a Colorado courtroom.

On Aug. 1, 2022, Larry Rudolph was found guilty of murdering his wife Bianca Rudolph. He's awaiting sentencing.

Lori Milliron was found guilty of being an accessory after the fact to murder. She was sentenced to 17 years in prison.

Produced by Ruth Chenetz, Mary Ann Rotondi, Susan Mallie and Jamie Stolz. Tamara Weitzman, Elena DiFiore and Michelle Fanucci are the development producers. Sarah Carter is the producer in Zambia. Richard Barber is the producer-editor. Jud Johnston, Marlon Disla, Mike Baluzy and Phil Tangel are the editors. Jen Terker and Chelsea Narvaez are the associate producers. Anthony Batson is the senior broadcast producer. Nancy Kramer is the executive story editor. Judy Tygard is the executive producer.

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Supreme Court rulings a setback to Biden administration
 Flash

Carol Folt, president of the University of Southern California (USC), expressed confidence in the educational exchanges between China and the United States during her maiden visit to China on Friday.

Founded in 1880, USC is renowned for its excellence in fields such as the sciences, cinematic arts, engineering, communication and journalism, business, architecture, medicine and gerontology. It is also one of the most preferred American universities among Chinese students.

"We are thrilled to celebrate the exceptional achievements and contributions of our tens of thousands of Chinese graduates. They have consistently demonstrated outstanding capabilities and made significant impacts on society. Chinese students have been an integral part of our diverse and innovative community since the early 20th century," Folt said during an alumni event of USC in Shanghai.

With over 450,000 alumni worldwide, USC boasts a strong alumni network that has led to the establishment of USC alumni organizations across the globe. To support Chinese students and alumni, USC has set up the USC China Career Center, offering comprehensive career guidance, employment counseling, direct engagement with global employers, and career training and development assistance.

At present, USC has collaborations with esteemed Chinese institutions such as Tsinghua University, Peking University, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, and ShanghaiTech University on various projects related to data science, journalism and communication, healthcare, cinematic arts, and the creative industry.

"China boasts excellent universities and talented, hardworking students. We welcome Chinese students to pursue their studies at USC. We have full confidence in the educational collaboration between China and the United States," Folt said.




U.S. Supreme Court in Washington, D.C. (Photo/Courtesy)

Guest Opinion. Concerns for Student Access to Higher Education and Implications for American Indian and Alaska Native Students

The American Indian College Fund is disheartened and concerned that the U.S. Supreme Courts ruling in Students for Fair Admissions, Inc. v. President and Fellows of Harvard College will impinge on the equitable access to an affordable higher education for American Indian and Alaska Natives and other diverse student groups. We refuse to let this decision reverse decades of progress in educational achievement which has benefitted talented and accomplished Native students and other diverse students with the opportunity for an affordable higher education, along with their families, and their communities.

In the Supreme Courts 6-3 majority opinion, Chief Justice John Roberts, who wrote the majority opinion, stated race-based admissions programs at the University of North Carolina and Harvard University were unconstitutional because they unavoidably employ race in a negative manner and use racial stereotyping. Roberts, continued, At the same time, as all parties agree, nothing in this opinion should be construed as prohibiting universities from considering an applicants discussion of how race affected his or her life, be it through discrimination, inspiration, or otherwise. But despite the dissents assertion to the contrary, universities may not simply establish through application essays or other means the regime we hold unlawful today.

Never miss Indian Countrys biggest stories and breaking news. Click here to sign up to get our reporting sent straight to your inbox every weekday morning.

The College Fund stands with Justice Sonia Sotomayor, who dissented, when she said the Court stands in the way and rolls back decades of precedent and momentous progress. It holds that race can no longer be used in a limited way in college admissions to achieve such critical benefits. In so holding, the court cements a superficial rule of colorblindness as a constitutional principle in an endemically segregated society where race has always mattered and continued to matter.

Sotomayor continued that the majority opinion is not grounded in law or in fact. President Joe Biden concurred in his statement to the nation, saying, The court has effectively ended affirmative action in college admissions and I strongly, strongly disagree with the courts decision, adding, the court has once again walked away from decades of [legal] precedent.

President Biden went on to say affirmative action was misunderstood. The policy, which began as an executive order to counter racism, had been revised and was practiced through university policies that considered myriad attributes of qualified student candidates to create diverse student bodies.

The truth is, we all know it, discrimination still exists in America, President Biden said. Discrimination still exists in America. Discrimination still exists in America, he repeated. Todays decision doesnt change that. We cannot let the decision be a permanent setback for the country.

Factually, the American Indian College Fund knows a colorblind society the Court alleged to strive for in its decision is not borne out in practice. We know this because of our experiences in the lives we lead in the real world outside of the halls of the Court.

Although Native peoples adhere to the legal distinction of American Indians as being citizens of sovereign nations rather than a racial group, we acknowledge there is a duality in how American Indians in the United States are classified in practice, as both sovereign peoples and as a racial group.

With regard to the facts of our lives lived in the real world that show us that, in fact, we do not live in a colorblind world: Our histories and cultures are still being removed from curricula across the country. Students continue to face prohibitions from wearing regalia at graduation ceremonies. Native students are frequently excluded from accessing campus resources and rarely see themselves represented on college campuses.

With regard to the inequitable treatment of Native people under the law, we know ths harkens back to the Declaration of Independence, in which sovereign Indigenous nations were referred to as merciless Indian savages. These inequities can be traced throughout the history of our nation through volumes of Indian Law to present today.

This is not meant to discount the lived and legal struggles that other marginalized people have endured. Rather, this is to state the bottom line that American Indians and Alaska Natives (AIAN) benefitted from policies that provide them with equitable access to higher educationalong with other groups and we understand the positive economic, mental, and physical health, and other outcomes an education confers on individuals, their families, and communities. We are committed to ensuring this progress continues.

The need for continued access to higher education for Native peoples has not been erased despite this ruling. Despite the great progress AIAN people made in earning a higher education thanks to the tribal college movement and affirmative action, education inequality in Indian Country is disproportionate. Issues such as federal policy have created systemic and generational poverty and excluded Indigenous people from having the ability to access collegeeconomically, geographically, and socially. Todays U.S. Census data illustrates the impact of inequity: AIAN people have the lowest higher education attainment rates in the United States (15.0% of AI/ANs 25 years and over have a bachelors degree or higher, compared to 32.1% of the overall population).

And this decision will not merely impact admissions access for historically marginalized groupsit could also impact how financial aid is awarded. Most Native students attending college do not enjoy generational wealth and many depend upon financial aid for tuition, books, transportation, housing, food, childcare, and health care. It could also impact students admission to leadership and mentoring programs, and employment opportunities in the future.

As Justice Sotomayor also said, Equal educational opportunity is a prerequisite to achieving racial equality in our nation. Education, as we say at the American Indian College Fund, wasand still isthe answerto empowering people to envision and create a future of their choosing. Those benefits, not incidentally, are to the benefit of the entire countrymaking it more competitive, sustainable, and secure.

It is for this reason we are aggrieved by the Supreme Courts decision, while remaining unequivocally in favor of higher education policies and practices that equalize pathways to a higher education for Indigenous peoples.

Our students belong where they dream to be. They are worthy, they deserve to achieve their potential. We all depend upon their brilliance to lead and innovate today and in the future. The work of scholarship organizations like the College Fund is more important than ever as we continue to remove financial barriers to student access and support. We offer students and their families the encouragement and care that shows them that they matter and have our support.

We thank the other national Native scholarship providers, higher education institutions, policymakers, and our supporters for committing to work with us to ensure our nations campuses are accessible to all, our students are welcome, and Native cultures and contributions are embraced. We will be working to update you on ways to collaborate to give young Native people the education and opportunities they deserve.

The American Indian College Fund has been the nations largest charity supporting Native higher education for 33 years. The College Fund believes Education is the answer" and provided $14.45 million in scholarships and other direct student support to American Indian students in 2021-22. Since its founding in 1989 the College Fund has provided more than $284 million in scholarships, programs, community, and tribal college support.

About the Author: "Levi \"Calm Before the Storm\" Rickert (Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation) is the founder, publisher and editor of Native News Online. Rickert was awarded Best Column 2021 Native Media Award for the print\/online category by the Native American Journalists Association. He serves on the advisory board of the Multicultural Media Correspondents Association. He can be reached at levi@nativenewsonline.net."

Contact: levi@nativenewsonline.net
Russia tried to attack Kyiv with kamikaze drones

Russian troops launched an air raid using Shahed attack drones against Ukraine, including on Kyiv, in the early hours of July 2, the city's military administration said on Telegram.

It was the first drone attack on the Ukrainian capital in the past 12 days, the administration stated. All of the aerial targets approaching Kyiv were shot down in the vicinity of the city.

Currently, no victims or damage from the attack has been reported.

Air-raid sirens could be heard in a number of Ukrainian oblasts at night. A total of eight Shahed drones and three Kalibr cruise missiles were intercepted over Ukraine, the Air Force said on Telegram on July 2.

Read also: Russia may intensify drone attacks in the coming days, says Ukrainian military

The launches of the eight Shaheds were carried out from the southeastern direction, while the Kalibrs were launched from the Black Sea. Air defense systems were reported to be operating in the Southern, Eastern and Central Air Command operational areas.

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
Air-raid warning issued in Kyiv and several oblasts

An air-raid warning was issued in some of Ukraines oblasts on the morning of 2 July, lasting over 30 minutes.

Source: map of air-raid warnings; Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine

Details: The air-raid warning began to spread at 06:55.

As of 06:58, it covered the territories of the southern, eastern, northern and central oblasts.

Screenshot

The Air Force reported that a Tu-22M3 aircraft had taken off from the Mozdok airfield in Russia.

Air-raid warnings notify civilians of danger of strikes; citizens are advised to go to the shelter or follow the "two-walls rule" (the safety rule whereby a person keeps two walls without windows between them and the street during attacks  ed.).

Updated: At 07:21, an air-raid warning was issued in the capital and Kyiv Oblast. The Air Force reported missile danger.

At 07:47, an air-raid alarm was issued in the country's southern oblasts.

The all-clear was given everywhere after 08:12 on 2 July.

Earlier: At night, an air-raid alarm was issued throughout Ukraine due to the threat of attacks of Russian missiles and UAVs.

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Airline Tells Parents They'll Be 'Put In Jail' & The Kids 'Put In Foster Care' If They Don't Take Their Toddler Out Of The Seat They Paid For

outside of plane, parents posing with daughter

A family was reprimanded by an airline because of how they had their toddler sitting while on their flight.

Brian and Brittany Schear from Huntington Beach, California were forced off their Delta flight and threatened with jail time and the removal of their children from their custody after refusing to give up their seats on an overbooked flight.

Brian and Brittany Schear were told they would be 'put in jail' if they didn't take their toddler out of the seat they paid for.

The Schear family had been traveling back home from Kahului Airport in Maui, Hawaii with their two toddlers in April 2017 when they had a horrible experience aboard their Delta flight.

RELATED: A Man Poured Soda On A Plane Passenger's "Smelly" Feet After She Kept Putting Them Under His Seat

Brian told NBC News that he and his wife had initially purchased a ticket for their 18-year-old son on the red-eye flight, but decided to send him home early so that their 2-year-old could have a seat on the plane. Before boarding their flight, Brian made sure to explain the situation to the ticket agent.

The family proceeded to board their flight with no issue, but once on the plane, Brian was told by a Delta employee that the 2-year-old had to give up his seat for the other passengers on the standby list. When they refused, Brian and Brittany were threatened with jail time.

The entire incident was captured by Brittany, who filmed the Delta workers telling Brian that if he and his family did not comply, they would all be kicked off the plane. In the video, Brian can be heard telling the airline employee, who is off-camera, that they can "remove me from the plane."

"So this is a federal offense. You and your wife could be in jail and your kids will be in foster care," the airline employee can be heard telling the family. Were going to be in jail and my kids are going to be what? Brian responded.

RELATED: Woman Describes Awkward Encounter With Wife Of Man Who Left His Family In Economy So He Could Upgrade To First Class

The airline worker confirmed their earlier statement, claiming that if the family didn't follow the rules, there would be serious repercussions.

At that point, Brian offered another solution. He suggested that his wife could hold one of the toddlers during takeoff and then put their 1-year-old in the car seat, but was told that federal rules require children under 2 to stay in a parent's lap throughout the flight.

Photo: Bricolage / Shutterstock

However, according to the Federal Aviation Administration, they strongly advise that infants be in car seats on flights, and not in a parents' lap.

RELATED: Woman Keeps Putting Her Bare Feet On Another Passenger's Armrest During Flight  She Learns A Valuable Lesson

The family was kicked off their flight and not given a refund for their tickets.

Brian told CBS News Los Angeles that he and his family were told to leave the plane if they refused to cooperate, and weren't even given a reimbursement.

When Brian inquired what they were supposed to do once they were off the flight, the Delta crew member wasn't any help. "That's not up to me," they responded, before later adding, "At this point, you guys are on your own."

"We never thought it was going to get to the point where they were actually getting us all off the flight," Brian told CBS Los Angeles. "As we were leaving the plane, there's four or five passengers waiting for our seat. The bottom line is, they oversold the flight."

While speaking with NBC News, Brittany expressed feeling most frustrated with the airline employee threatening her and her husband with jail time and their children being put in foster care.

"I'm not a confrontational person... and when you're a mother and you have your 1-year-old and your 2-year-old and they threaten to take your kids away from you, I mean whether that's possible or whether that's, you know, against the law, it just, it made my heart drop," she said.

Photo: Song_about_summer / Shutterstock

RELATED: Video Of A Child 'Running Wild' During An 8-Hour Flight Sparks Outrage Online

Delta Airlines eventually released a statement, publicly apologizing to the family for the inconvenience. "We are sorry for the unfortunate experience our customers had with Delta, and we've reached out to them to refund their travel and provide additional compensation," the company said.

"Delta's goal is to always work with customers in an attempt to find solutions to their travel issues. That did not happen in this case and we apologize."

It can be incredibly frustrating when big corporations, such as Delta, exhibit behavior that makes it seem as if they don't care about their customers, but rather how much money they can make from consumers. Thankfully, the family was able to stay in a hotel for the night and reboard a different flight in the morning.

RELATED: Woman Confronts Man On Plane After Reading A Text He Wrote About Her  'I Want You To Feel As Uncomfortable As Me'

Nia Tipton is a Chicago-based entertainment, news, and lifestyle writer whose work delves into modern-day issues and experiences.

This article originally appeared on YourTango
The US Armys air defense units are among the most overworked in the US military, manning missile systems across the globe to provide around-the-clock deterrence against adversaries including North Korea, China, Iran and Russia.

In describing the problem to CNN, the Armys most senior air defense officer, Lt. Gen. Dan Karbler, recounted something an Army sergeant told him recently: Sir, its simple, pure math. We have more missions than we have air defense capability.

As demands stack up with the war in Ukraine and amid looming concerns over a potential conflict with China, service leaders have been sounding the alarm that these critical missile defense units could be stretched too thin.

It could get out of whack in a hurry if its not managed properly, Maj. Gen. Brian Gibson, commander of the 94th Army Air and Missile Defense Command in Hawaii, told CNN.

The situation became so severe that in 2020, the service conducted a survey of air defense soldiers and families, and have recently been working to implement changes to offload some of the pressure those soldiers and families are feeling.

The Army is offering $47,500 enlistment bonuses to attract more candidates for certain air defense jobs, including operating Patriot missile batteries. Its also embedded mental health specialists into air defense units around the world in an effort to address what has emerged as a troubling side-effect of manning the front lines of Americas missile defense systems: burnout.

Right now, the Army has directed that we put behavioral health specialists in the formations, said Karbler, who is commander of the Armys Space and Missile Defense Command. We have them there, and they will become a permanent part of those organizations.

Near constant deployment

The Armys air defense branch is among the most frequently deployed branches of the service, with almost 60% of its total force deployed at any one time. On average, air defense soldiers were found to have less than a year at home after a year-long deployment, when ideally they should have two to three years at home after a year away. The Army has since brought that up to two years at home for every one-year deployment  Defense Secretary Lloyd Austins red line, according to Karbler.

Since Russia invaded Ukraine last year, US air defense soldiers stationed in Europe have had to deploy with just hours notice to protect NATOs Eastern flank and assist in training Ukraine. Meanwhile in the Pacific, the US military is increasing its presence in the region to prepare for a possible future conflict with China  while also maintaining its deterrence of North Korea. All of this is in addition to an ongoing mission in the Middle East, though the Pentagon has reduced some commitments in the region as partners have increased their own air defense capabilities.

In describing the problem to CNN, one senior Army air defense officer, who spoke on condition of anonymity in order to speak freely, We have been overworked and undermanned.

US Army air defenders with Bravo Battery, 5th Battalion, 7th Air Defense Artillery Regiment, 10th Army Air Missile Defense Command, reunite with family and friends after a year-long deployment - Pfc. Yesenia Cadavid/U.S. Department of Defense

A

long with embedding mental health specialists, the Army is also working to stand up entirely new air defense units over the next few years.

Leaders are also increasingly focused on communicating with families early and often to help mitigate the unpredictable nature of the job, especially when the duration of deployments are extended out. One noncommissioned officer who deployed to the Eastern flank at the start of Russias invasion, Sgt. 1st Class Graham Kimmel, said he and his commander organized a newsletter for families, through which they shared photos of their deployed soldiers and information they could share so families felt up to date.

We said they were going for six months, and now all of a sudden they got extended for nine months, or theyre going for nine months and got extended for 12 months, and in some cases got extended for longer than a year, Karbler said of air defense forces. That unpredictability really, really affected the soldiers and the families, he added, and was a significant contributor to stress on the force.

No signs of slowing in the Pacific

In the Pacific, the strain is often felt by the sheer size of the region and the time and resources it takes to get from one place to another. In 2023 alone, US Army Pacific was expected to participate in 24 military exercises which are crucial to the US efforts in building relationships in the region, learning from one another, and strengthening partnerships in the chance that conflict does come to the Pacific.

Gibson explained that it can take a massive amount of time to get soldiers and equipment from place to place in the Pacific for exercises, and that there is growing momentum from partners in the region to expand our scope and pace of exercises and operating together.

Thats in addition to units often being ordered to a higher state of readiness because of activity in the region, like when North Korea launches a missile.

I dont see, today, any reduction in what potential adversaries are doing in the theater, Gibson said. I think theres a real chance that it only continues to increase from actions that predominantly China and North Korea conduct. But Russia also has parts to play pretty significantly in this theater, especially in the maritime and air domain.

Business is good for air defense

Brig. Gen. Maurice Barnett, commander of the 10th Army Air and Missile Defense Command in Europe, put it simply: Unfortunately, business is good for air defense.

Indeed, the need for a strong air defense has been on display for the world to see in Europe as Ukraine has worked to thwart attacks by the Russian military since last February.

And for the US soldiers tasked with providing defense of partners, as well as training Ukrainians to operate their own air defense systems, the stakes couldnt be higher.

Master Sgt. Carlos Retana, a Patriot Master Gunner, led the US Patriot training for Ukrainians in Europe after they trained at Fort Sill, Oklahoma. The training was unlike anything hed seen in his 23 years in the Army, Retana told CNN  not only because of the Ukrainian troops themselves, who ranged drastically in age and military experience from before the war, but also the very real consequences hanging over the training as a motivator for US troops to teach their Ukrainian counterparts everything they know.

Retana said ultimately, the US trainers were praying that what we did was sufficient in teaching the Ukrainians how to operate the Patriot and sending them back to the front lines.

At the very end, it was bittersweet  it was happy that the training was complete, and that [the Ukrainians] were successful, Retana said. But it was also a very worrisome and heavy burden to think theyre headed into the wolfs den  to go fight.

Servicemembers assinged to Bravo Battery, 5th Battalion, 7th Air Defense Artillery, 10th Army Air Missile Defense Command, rest on a Patriot missile launcher on Aug. 9 in Slovakia. - 2nd Lt. Emily Park/U.S. Department of Defense

Being that close to the Ukrainians mission reaffirmed how critical air defense is to the Americans conducting the training, Retana said, and made the increased demands on them worth it.

It motivates people because it gives us meaning  Youre willing to go through a lot more when you believe that what youre doing is meaningful.

The demand of that mission has resulted in a decrease in how many exercises the US is participating in with partners in Europe, Barnett said, taking the total number from 18 to 12 this year. He added that the Army has to look at creative ways to meet the mission requirements  because at the end of the day, the mission requirements arent slowing down.

Our number one priority, of course, is taking care of our people, Barnett said. But thats only supplemented by we have a mission to accomplish here. And I dont think the American people, nor our European allies, will take no as an answer.

For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com
The first reading of the Declaration of Independence in Boston, July 18, 1776. Tichnor Brothers Collection, Boston Public Library via Digital Commonwealth

Many Americans of the founding era denounced government tyranny, celebrated the Declaration of Independence  and favored lockdowns and mass inoculations to combat a viciously contagious disease.

Unchecked, smallpox kills more than one in 10 of its victims, leaving many of the rest blind, disfigured and sometimes sterile. Many historians say the reason George Washington never had children was his near-fatal bout of smallpox in 1751.

The summer of 1776 was a time of crisis for the budding republic. A smallpox outbreak in the Continental Army killed hundreds. And as the soldiers came home from a failed invasion of Canada, they brought the disease to Boston.

Yet the country badly needed healthy men: The British landed on Staten Island on July 2, the same day Congress declared independence.

A perfect solution beckoned: inoculation, the 18th-century precursor to vaccination. As historian Elizabeth Fenn explains, the physician would make small incisions in the patients skin, then introduce scabs or pus from a person with smallpox. The inoculee would then contract a mild form of the virus, only one-tenth as lethal as the accidentally acquired version.

It would be 20 years before English scientist Edward Jenner pioneered the practice of immunizing people against smallpox with the similar cowpox virus, which is harmless to humans. Since the Latin word for cow is vacca, that process became known as vaccination.

In Colonial times, people who got inoculated generally did so in groups in order to keep down the cost and logistical complications. For the several weeks that they remained contagious, they would take over a home or tavern and proclaim it a smallpox hospital: off-limits to everyone but inoculees.

Imposing a lockdown

Boston and other towns required people undergoing inoculation to remain indoors and post red warning flags around the immunization site. Sometimes, though, restless individuals would slip out, endangering neighbors who either could not afford the expensive procedure or chose not to undergo it. Even when inoculees remained indoors, townspeople so feared catching this horrific disease that they often rioted against doctors who set up inoculation sites.

But by early summer 1776, the majority of not-yet-inoculated Bostonians were eager for the procedure  and so were many out-of-towners. Abigail Adams, famous today for imploring the Continental Congress to Remember the Ladies, acted quickly to inoculate herself and her children. Traveling from the nearby town of Braintree to Boston for the treatment, she wrote her husband, future president John Adams, Our Little ones stood the operation Manfully  The Little folks are very sick then and puke every morning, but after that they are comfortable.

Still, others refused, and Bostons selectmen (city council) could not just let everyone decide for themselves. A patchwork of families, some undergoing and some refusing inoculation, would assuredly have set off an epidemic. So Massachusetts legislators made a bold decision. Since most Bostonians wanted to be inoculated, they would not, per usual, have to confine themselves to smallpox hospitals.

Instead, they would have the run of Boston, and the anti-inoculators would be the ones who had to either lock down or get out of town before inoculation began.

Until the city was deemed safe, guards would be posted at the sole road and several ferry landings connecting Boston to the wider world. Only those who had already had smallpox would be allowed in, and no one could leave until the selectmen deemed them smallpox-free.

By July 18, when Col. Thomas Crafts stepped out onto the balcony of the Massachusetts State House to read the just-received Declaration of Independence, no one in attendance needed to fear either catching smallpox or giving it to someone else.

Abigail Adams was among the Multitude who attended the reading. As Crafts finished the Declaration of Independence and shouted, God Save our American States, Adams reported, the Bells rang  the cannon were discharged, the platoons followed and every face appeard joyfull.

As late as August 26, Boston leaders were still trying to stamp out vestiges of the smallpox virus, but their bold action had prevented an epidemic. Nearly 5,000 people had been inoculated. That was equivalent to a third of Bostons population, though about half of the inoculees were actually out-of-towners like the Adams family.

Conflicting notions of freedom

At the time, Boston had five newspapers, but no one used their pages to complain about the lockdown and other enforcement measures.

Some people took their belief in the individuals responsibility to the community to extremes. The claim that Every man in a republic is public property came not from some crazed utopian but from Benjamin Rush, a signer of the Declaration of Independence. And Benjamin Franklin, in a Christmas 1783 letter advocating federal taxes to pay off the Revolutionary War debt, conceded that citizens have the right to retain enough property for their survival and for the Propagation of the Species. But he added: all Property superfluous to such purposes is the Property of the Publick.

Few Americans today would go as far as Rush and Franklin, but their comments, like Bostons July 1776 decision to turn itself into one giant immunization site, remind us of the American Revolutionaries provocative conviction that communities have rights, too.

[Youre smart and curious about the world. So are The Conversations authors and editors. You can read us daily by subscribing to our newsletter.]

This article is republished from The Conversation, a nonprofit news site dedicated to sharing ideas from academic experts. The Conversation has a variety of fascinating free newsletters.

It was written by: Woody Holton, University of South Carolina.

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Woody Holton received funding from the National Endowment for the Humanities Henry E. Huntington Library, and Newberry Library.
(Bloomberg) -- About half of Americans support the Supreme Court decision curtailing the use of race in college admissions and a third disapprove, with views splitting along racial and ethnic lines in a poll published Sunday.

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Majorities of White and Asian American respondents approved of the decision overturning affirmative action, while Latino and Hispanic Americans were evenly split and 52% of Black Americans disapproved in the ABC News/Ipsos poll. Overall, 52% approved and 32% didnt.

Last weeks decisions by the court, which also included throwing out President Joe Bidens student-loan relief plan and allowing a constitutional exception to anti-discrimination laws, injected the three issues into the mix for next years election.

Recent rulings by the Supreme Court, including last years decision on abortion rights, signal a dangerous creep towards authoritarianism and centralization of power, Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, a Democrat from New York and one of the partys progressive standard-bearers, said on CNNs State of the Union.

Former Vice President Mike Pence, whos running for the Republican presidential nomination, said the affirmative-action ruling acknowledged minority Americans progress. Im just very confident that African Americans, Hispanic Americans and other minorities are going to be able to compete and succeed, he said on ABCs This Week.

Biden sharply criticized the high court after the college admissions ruling and later said the vast majority of the American people dont agree with a lot of the decisions this court is making.

Former President Donald Trump, who is seeking a second term in 2024, praised the courts decisions at a rally in South Carolina on Saturday, touting his appointment of three justices that are key to its conservative majority.

The courts rejection of Bidens student-loan forgiveness plan met with 45% approval in the ABC News poll, while 40% disapproved.

The June 30-July 1 poll of 937 adults has a margin of error of plus or minus 3.6 percentage points.

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Wandering the sandy scrub habitat of Deltonas Lyonia Preserve, traversing rolling dunes filled with short oaks and prickly pear cactus, Stephen Kintner greets resident Florida scrub-jays as if old friends.

While not a single jay showed its face one recent morning (attributed perhaps to the hot Florida summer sun or nearby predators), the longtime volunteer and former Volusia County environmental management director knows the preserves population well.

They have facial recognition and they will not forgive you for six months if you do something bad to them, Kintner said. Luckily, hes been on their good side for quite some time.

The 360-acre Lyonia Preserve is part of a tract of land that was set aside for education in the mid-1800s. In 1990, Kintner was part of the Volusia County team that warded off a shopping-center development and ensured the long-term preservation of this land, which he said Deltona has adopted as its Central Park.

Its an important part of the conservation picture for the Florida scrub-jay, a species that numbers about 60 individuals in 20 families within the preserve. Over a period of two weeks, Kintner joined fellow volunteers in contributing to a statewide Jay Watch through Audubon Florida, which rallies volunteers on about 46 sites through mid-July to take a population snapshot of the states only endemic bird.

The population was once estimated to be about 40,000. Today the estimate is about 8,000, said Jacqui Sulek, Audubon Floridas Jay Watch coordinator and chapter conservation manager. Theres only about 5% of the original scrub habitat left.

The purpose of Jay Watch, which spans from Jonathan Dickinson State Park near Jupiter to Ocala National Forest, is not to get a comprehensive population count but to understand how land management can help scrub-jays and how genetics factor into increasingly isolated populations.

Despite their federal protection as a threatened species, Florida scrub-jays face ongoing habitat loss and development encroaching on areas that were previously managed with prescribed burns, which are harder to use amid urban sprawl.

For 74-year-old Kintner, who has dedicated most of his life to environmental protection, education is key to getting more people engaged.

The problem with anything you do is getting it to be multi-generational. It cant just be me, he said. People only protect what they understand. You have to get people out here, walking the trails, seeing a scrub-jay and learning about the plants.

Florida scrub-jays are smart and social birds that bury 6,000-8,000 acorns per year (and remember where they put them), participate in cooperative breeding and have complex social systems.

The scrub-jay is very charismatic, which makes it easy to fall in love with the bird, Sulek said.

While this years Jay Watch is well underway across Central Florida, Sulek encouraged the public to stay involved through Audubon Florida communications and sign up to volunteer in the future. Lyonia Environmental Center has ongoing educational programming as well.

Jay Watch is a way to engage people in a very unique environment, to take time to slow down and experience some of the most beautiful landscapes in Florida, Sulek said. The more people understand the concerns and threats to our habitat, the more we stand a chance of keeping it in the future. The scrub-jay is a great ambassador for that landscape.

Visit volusia.org, fl.audubon.org or myfwc.com to learn more.

Find me @PConnPie on Instagram or send me an email: pconnolly@orlandosentinel.com.
The annual Smithsonian Folklife Festival is underway, with a special focus on the Ozarks for the first time in the festival's 56-year history.

Held on the National Mall in Washington D.C., the festival began June 29 and will continue through Sunday, July 9, with one day off on Wednesday, July 5. This year's theme, "The Ozarks: Faces and Facets of a Region" highlights the rich history and contemporary lifestyle of the Ozarks through workshops, demonstrations, performances and narrative sessions.

Missouri State University is the festival's primary partner for this year, supplying more than 70 staff members to attend.

Tom Peters, dean of library services at MSU, speaks during the grand opening of the Ozark Room in the Duane G. Meyer Library on Wednesday, Oct. 20, 2021. A partnership between Missouri State University and the Smithsonian Institution's Center for Folklife and Cultural Heritage was also announced during the event.

While the festival is held in Washington D.C., folks can still tune in to most of the programming via live stream. If the live stream doesn't fit into your schedule, don't fret. All of the programming it recorded and available to watch after the fact. Festival programming can be accessed on the Smithsonian Folklife Festival website or YouTube at bit.ly/3Nxm1nI.

To better chronicle the many aspects of the Ozarks region, the festival is organized into four main coverage areas: Celebrations and Gatherings, Stories, Sounds and Show Business, Migrations, Movements and Pathways, and Connections to Land and Place.

Celebrations and Gatherings

"Ozarkers create community across sacred and secular spaces by coming together in times of joy and in times of pain," the festival website states. Throughout the festival, attendees (and those tuning in at home) may learn how community traditions are passed on through exercises like baking and song.

This year's Smithsonian Folklife Festival features a diverse array of different cultural celebrations that encourage attendee participation, including hymn-singing with Mennonite churches from the Ozarks, hula dancing with members of the Halau Na Kipuupuu hula school in Hawaii and praying to Tengri, an all-encompassing God to believers in Kazakhstan.

Stories, Sounds and Show Business

Music has always been a large part of Ozarks culture, whether it was old-timers singing ballads for folklorists like Vance Randolph and Max Hunter or trained professionals taking a main stage at Silver Dollar City.

Monday's programming kicks off with a discussion about traditional Ozarks ballad singing from 10-10:45 a.m. Musicians Marideth Sisco, Aviva Pilgrim, and Chris Brashear will discuss the history of Ozarks ballads and what makes them different than others in the country. Ballads came to the Ozarks region from Irish and Scottish settlers who initially landed in Appalachia.

More: Life of Ozarks' folk song collector chronicled in book, 'Ballad Hunting with Max Hunter'

A familiar set of voices to Ozarkians will grace the National Mall multiple days during the festival. Mark Bilyeu and Cindy Woolf of The Creek Rocks will perform on Monday from 2-2:45 p.m., Tuesday from 10-10:45 a.m., Friday from 2-2:45 p.m., Saturday from 1-1:45 p.m. and Sunday, July 9 from 3-3:45 p.m., all on the Pickin' Parlor stage.

Up-and-coming Arkansas-based folk musician Willi Carlisle, who has performed in Springfield a number of times, will also perform at the festival. Carlisle will perform solo on Saturday from noon to 12:45 p.m. on the Rinzler Stage and from noon to 12:45 p.m. on the Pickin' Parlor. Carlisle is also participating in several discussions about Ozarks ballads and Arkansas folk music throughout the week.

A piece of Silver Dollar City will even be represented at the festival, with Terry Wayne Sanders performing a comedy show on the Pickin' Parlor stage on Sunday, July 9 from 10-10:45 a.m.

Migrations, Movements and Pathways

One of the reasons the Ozarks are special is because of the countless pathways that have traversed through the region, whether it be Route 66 or the Natchitoches Trace.

A portion of this year's Smithsonian Folklife Festival is dedicated to trail building and mountain biking. Throughout the entire festival, attendees may learn how to craft trails using carpentry and dirt-shaping techniques from industry professionals. Each afternoon, mountain bikers Seth Gebel and Mike Schulz will ride along a wooden structure they crafted especially for the festival on the National Mall.

Jane Murr takes a corner along a mountain bike path.

When it comes to cultural migration, several programs center on the Marshallese, natives of the Marshall Islands in the Pacific Ocean. Northwest Arkansas is home to the largest community of Marshallese in the continental United States, with between 15,000 to 20,000 individuals living in the region, according to Arkansas Soul.

The Marshallese Crafts stage is dedicated entirely to programs centered on the Marshallese culture, including boatbuilding, weaving and dancing.

Connections to Land and Place

Caves, ridges, rivers and lakes make up the Ozarks diverse topography, which help support a thriving natural ecosystem.

Rachael West, founder of Eating the Ozarks, is hosting several natural food-centric programs throughout the festival, exploring topics like foraging, herbalism and community agriculture. On Monday from noon to 12:45 p.m. and Thursday from 10-10:45 a.m., West will dive entirely into the Ozarks' "wonderful edible world," sharing recipes made entirely of foraged ingredients.

Rachael West is owner of Eating the Ozarks, which offers seasonal multi-course dinners in a yurt in Reeds Spring.

Bo Brown, director of First Earth Wilderness School and author of "Foraging the Ozarks: Finding, Identifying, and Preparing Edible Wild Foods in the Ozarks," is also hosting several programs during the festival. Every day of the festival, Brown will participate in a discussion of plant knowledge and practice, often with West.

He will also discuss foraging ethics on Monday from 3-3:45 p.m., how to make all-natural teas on Tuesday from 11-11:45 a.m., the history of winemaking in the Ozarks on Thursday from noon to 12:45 p.m., among other related topics.

Countless other programs will be held throughout this week. A full festival schedule is available online at festival.si.edu/schedule.

Ozark Mountain Daredevils headline Fourth of July concert

John Dillion of The Ozark Mountain Daredevils laughs during Springfield's second annual Earth Day Music and Sustainability Festival, at Jordan Valley Ice Park on Saturday, April 22, 2023.

Headlining the festival's Fourth of July concert on the National Mall are The Ozark Mountain Daredevils. The Daredevils take the festival's Rinzler Stage at 5 p.m. The concert is followed by a firework show.

More: The Ozark Mountain Daredevils to perform at annual Smithsonian Folklife Festival on July 4

Those interested in learning a bit more about the Daredevils' history may tune in to "Music and Identity in the Ozarks: A Conversation with The Ozark Mountain Daredevils" from 2-2:45 p.m.

If visiting the Smithsonian Folklife Festival website, note that all programming times are in Eastern Daylight Time. For the purpose of local readers, the News-Leader has updated each mentioned date to reflect Central Standard Time.

Established in 1967, the Smithsonian Folklife Festival is produced by the Smithsonian Center for Folklife and Cultural Heritage. The annual festival is free and welcomes attendees from more than 100 countries.

This article originally appeared on Springfield News-Leader: Focused on Ozarks, Smithsonian Folklife Festival continues this week
Another bus with migrants has been sent from Texas to Los Angeles

A bus carrying 41 migrants from Brownsville, Texas, arrived in Southern California on Saturday  the second such shipment from the region in two weeks.

The Texas-funded bus arrived at Union Station at 12:40 p.m. Intake of the migrants began shortly after they arrived with a legal orientation, according to Angelica Salas, executive director for the Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights of Los Angeles.

Members of the group, which included 11 children, came from Belize, Colombia, Cuba, El Salvador, Guatemala, Mexico, Nicaragua and Venezuela, Salas said at a news conference.

City officials became aware of the upcoming arrival on Friday and mobilized by working with a coalition of nonprofit groups and faith-based organizations to accommodate the group, Mayor Karen Basss spokesperson Zach Seidl said in a statement.

The mayors office said it was not formally notified before learning that migrants were heading to the city, according to the statement.

The City of Los Angeles believes in treating everyone with respect and dignity and will do so, Seidl said.

Republican governors have been transporting migrants to several Democratic-led states and cities in protest of southern border security efforts by the federal government which theyve said are inadequate.

Texas Gov. Greg Abbott first sent migrants from Texas to Los Angeles on June 14 as the state continued its pushback against policies.

Bass called the move a political stunt in an interview last month with CNNs Jake Tapper.

I think its despicable to use individuals like this, Bass said. I think that doing this, if he was sincere, he would have contacted Los Angeles, he would have told us people were coming, he would have told us who the individuals were, but they didnt do that.

A collective of several organizations including immigration legal services providers and faith organizations focused on migrant arrival rapid response, welcomed the migrants to the Golden State, the Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights said in a statement.

Independent of origin, mode of transportation or motive, Los Angeles is organized and ready to receive these asylum seekers when they get here. If Los Angeles is their last destination, we will ensure this is the place where they get a genuine and humane reception, Salas said.

The migrants will receive legal help from the Immigrant Defenders Law Center if needed to help navigate immigration court, executive director Lindsay Toczylowski told CNNs Camila Bernal in an interview.

We look at the documents that they came with so that we can help advise them on what the next steps are in their case, Toczylowski said.

Abbott has bussed more than 23,000 migrants to cities across the country, including Washington, DC, New York City, Chicago, Philadelphia, Denver and Los Angeles, according to a post on Abbotts official Twitter account dated June 27.

That post said over 40 migrants had been transported to Los Angeles, CNN previously reported.

CNN has reached out to Abbotts office for comment.

In June, California officials launched an investigation after Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis allegedly arranged for migrants to be taken from Texas to New Mexico and then flown by private jet to California.

Officials are investigating whether those migrants were misled with false promises.

CNNs Taylor Romine, Elizabeth Joseph, Kate Sullivan, Sam Fossum and Aya Elamroussi contributed to this report.

For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com
Reacting to the Supreme Courts conservative majority ruling that affirmative action in higher education and President Joe Bidens student debt relief plan are unconstitutional, Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY) warned Sunday that the court is beginning to assume the power of a legislature.

They are expanding their role into acting as though they are Congress itself and that, I believe, is an expansion of power that we really must be focusing on, Ocasio-Cortez said on CNNs State of the Union.

In striking down affirmative action in helping determine admissions decisions, Chief Justice John Roberts wrote that each applicant must be treated based on his or her experiences as an individual  not on the basis of race. And in re-imposing a massive amount of debt for 43 million borrowers, the court decided that Biden overstepped his authority through the 2003 HEROES Act, which the government had cited to defend the debt cancellation.

AOC: If Chief Justice Roberts will not come before Congress for an investigation voluntarily, I believe that we should be considering subpoenas pic.twitter.com/a7XwkQ1oN9  Acyn (@Acyn) July 2, 2023

Together, the rulings signal a dangerous creep towards authoritarianism and centralization of power in the court, Ocasio-Cortez said, similar to Justice Elena Kagans dissent in the student loan case in which she wrote that the Supreme Court substitutes itself for Congress and the Executive Branch.

The New York Democrat also reiterated her concerns about ethics reform for the court in light of how justices Clarence Thomas and Samuel Alito didnt report gifts from right-wing donors.

The Supreme Court has not been receiving the adequate oversight necessary in order to preserve their own legitimacy, she said. And in the process, they themselves have been destroying the legitimacy of the court, which is profoundly dangerous for our entire democracy.

Ocasio-Cortez, the Vice Ranking Member on the House Committee on Oversight and Accountability, floated subpoenas and impeachment as potential options to get the court to fix conflicts of interests.

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If this is the summer to finally sell your house, Archway Homes may be able to help. This hometown real estate company, owned by husband and wife team Jon and Stacy Bichelmeyer, has more than 20 years of experience buying homes in all conditions and does it quickly without the often painful and stressful selling process.

They buy houses as is in any condition: houses needing little to no repair, houses needing everything repaired from leaking roofs to bad foundations, cluttered houses, or those simply in need of cosmetic updating. Archway provides a no-obligation offer within 24 hours, can pay cash and close within three days or on a future date of the sellers choice, and there are no fees or commissions to pay.

One of the advantages of working with us is selling as is, said Jon. That means you dont have to do any extensive and expensive renovations to make your home appeal to todays buyers or have it ready to show at a moments notice, wait for the right buyer, wait for it to close, and then pay a real estate agents commission or sellers closing costs.

A third-generation real estate investor with roots in the Kansas City community for over 40 years, Jons extensive experience really makes a difference. The ability to sell a house quickly, in lieu of the traditional, lengthy home selling method, to an established and reputable company has been the perfect solution for numerous homeowners all over the Kansas City area, including Henry C. when he assisted his elderly mother in downsizing from her home in Olathe.

It was really becoming dangerous for my 89-year-old mother to maneuver in her home. Even with a stairlift, she was at risk of falling so she decided it was time to sell. I wanted to make the move as simple as possible for her. Archway was awesome to work with. They treated my mother with a lot of patience. I want her to enjoy whats left of her life and Archway allowed her to move on with no pressure, he said. I felt we got a fair price, and Jon let us leave quite a bit of things in the house that she could not take with her. The whole process went very smoothly, and I would definitely recommend Archway to others.

Archway has purchased homes in all sorts of situations. Sometimes the properties need extensive repairs. Archway Homes will buy the home and make the needed repairs, relieving the sellers of the hassle and expense. Sellers can even leave the unwanted contents, saving time and expense. We are committed to working with sellers, even in difficult situations, to find a solution for all, Stacy said.

They strive to make the difficult process of selling a home as stress-free as possible, especially in these challenging times. We even wrote the book on it. Literally! Home to Home Local Edition  Kansas City Metro outlines the steps homeowners can take to sell their home and our experiences helping people do just that, Jon said.

Weve seen some great times; we lived through the real estate crash in 2008-2010 and have come through the other side. We plan to keep working with sellers no matter what the market is doing, said Jon. I know people are being cautious and careful, so we are using smart technology and every health precaution to make sure our sellers feel comfortable.

Archway Homes features a no-obligation offer process. The first step is to call the office at 913-599-5000 to schedule an appointment. Jon will then walk through the home and can provide an offer price within 24 hours. Archway Homes can pay cash and close in as fast as three days. However, some sellers need the opposite approach, needing a delayed closing several months away. They may need time to find their next home, or they are building a home and need time for it to be completed. Coordinating closing schedules in a traditional sale can be challenging. Archway Homes sets a closing date that will meet the sellers needs.

Anyone who wants to sell a home quickly for cash should call Jon Bichelmeyer at 913-599-5000 or email him at jon@archwayhomesinc.com. Or they can visit Archway Homes website at archwaypropertieskc.com to fill out an online form or to get a free copy of our book Home to Home Local Edition  Kansas City Metro, Kansas and Missouri, call our office.

Archway Homes

Location: 15301 W. 87th St. Parkway, Suite B35 in the UMB Bank building

Contact: Jon Bichelmeyer at 913-599-5000 or jon@archwayhomesinc.com

Website: archwaypropertieskc.com
I was arrested for having 2 joints and spent 7 years in prison. Now I own a cannabis company that donates profits to help those like me.

Bernard Noble. Courtesy of Bernard Noble

Bernard Noble had on him about enough marijuana for two joints when he was arrested in 2010.

He had seven children when he was sent to jail, and it ruined his relationships with them.

Today he's a cofounder of a legal cannabis company and expecting a baby.

This as-told-to essay is based on a conversation with Bernard Noble. The following has been edited for length and clarity.

I love to cook. I'm the oldest of six kids, and my mama always had me beside her in the kitchen. She'd tell me to watch the food and listen to the food  and she'd pop me if I burned anything.

I started selling Cajun dishes like Gumbo and yaka mein, a sort of beef and noodle soup that's a sworn hangover cure in New Orleans. One week in 2010, I drove to the Big Easy to visit family and pick up meat to cook and sell back in Kansas City, where I'd relocated after Hurricane Katrina.

My life changed that weekend. I went to look for friends whom I knew had gone to buy something to smoke. As we walked back to my dad's, what felt like 50 police cars swooped in. I made eye contact with a Black officer, and it felt so personal between us, as two Black men from Louisiana.

I wasn't scared when he told me I wasn't going to get out from under this. Maybe I should have been worried. I had less than an ounce of weed on me  about enough for two joints. But I was sentenced to 13  years in prison.

Going to prison ruined my family

I was a dad to seven kids when I was arrested. Some of them I'd had young, but for the past 14 years, I'd been in a relationship, and we were raising our three kids together.

When you're in the system, and you have no resources, your family is torn apart. I didn't have money to call. After a while, it felt like my family had forgotten about me. It was like I died, but worse because my kids felt abandoned.

In prison, mail is everything. If you get mail, it means someone cares about you. You have support, love, and money  maybe even some snacks from the outside. When you have none of that, the other prisoners know you're vulnerable.

I never had mail. I spent a lot of time crying in prison. I felt so unloved.

Advocates heard about my case and tried to help

That changed when my case started getting some attention. Just a few years after I was arrested, states started legalizing marijuana. People were making money off this industry, while I was serving time for two joints. I wasn't the only one who thought this was wrong. The Innocence Project and the Marshall Project started advocating for me. Then, I was featured in the documentary "Grass is Greener."

When I started getting letters from supporters, it changed how I walked. I stuck my chest out and strode with pride for the first time in years. Finally, the support paid off, and I was released on parole after more than seven years in prison.

Still, the damage wasn't over. Me being in prison took something from my kids that I can't put back. My daughter used to wait in the window for me like a little puppy. We loved eating Subway together. But when I got out of prison, she told me I didn't have the right to parent her. That had been taken away from me, and I was so, so angry about it. To this day, I'm trying to right some wrongs.

Walking into a cannabis shop was surreal

I'll never forget walking into a dispensary for the first time. There was an armed guard at the door. He opened it for me and said, "Welcome." I thought he was playing me. For years, I'd been guarded by men with guns. Now a guard was welcoming me to come do the exact thing that had put me in prison.

Being Black and coming from my background meant opportunities were scarce. I had nothing. Legal cannabis offered me a chance to build a better life, and I was determined to take it. I cofounded B Noble, a cannabis brand that donates 10% of its profits to end marijuana-related incarceration.

I'm writing this on my 57th birthday. I'm married for the first time, and we have a baby on the way. I'm extremely excited to build this new family while continuing to heal my relationships with my older kids. I get to share my story, educate people about this plant, and, yes, make some money.

God didn't present me with many opportunities when I was younger. But now that he has, I'm going to take advantage.

Read the original article on Insider
A 13-year-old child was wounded in Russian attacks on Kherson Oblast.

Source: Oleksandr Tolokonnikov, the head of the press office of the Kherson Oblast Military Administration, on air during the 24/7 national joint newscast

Details: Tolokonnikov has reported that "the night was loud" (meaning there were a lot of explosions  ed.).

In particular, the Russian army attacked the village of Mylove in Beryslav district at night.

A 13-year-old child was caught in the attack and sustained injuries.

The child was taken to a hospital; there is no threat to their life at the moment, as Tolokonnikov added.

Background: In the afternoon of 1 July, the Russians attacked residential areas of Kherson; one of the shells hit a house and injured two children.

Journalists fight on their own frontline. Support Ukrainska Pravda or become our patron!
Baltimore mass shooting: Two dead, three critical and 25 more injured in cowardly act

Two people have been killed, three left fighting for their lives and 25 others injured in a mass shooting at a block party in Baltimore overnight.

Baltimore Police Department said it responded to calls of a reported shooting in the Brooklyn Homes area of South Baltimore at about 12.35am on Sunday.

Acting Police Commissioner Richard Worley confirmed 30 people, all adults, had been shot in the incident in the 800 block of Gretna Avenue when he spoke at a press conference at the scene.

Baltimore Police Department said it responded to calls of a reported shooting in the Brooklyn Homes area of South Baltimore at about 12.35am on Sunday (Baltimore Police)

An 18-year-old woman died at the scene, while a 20-year-old man later died after being taken to a local hospital.

Eight other victims were also taken to local hospitals, and 20 more walked into hospitals across the area.

Speaking at the scene, Mayor Brandon Scott condemned the shooting. This was a reckless, cowardly act that happened here and that has permanently altered many lives and cost two people their lives, he said.

No arrests were made immediately after the shooting and police remain at the scene. Authorities said the crime scene was extensive and that it would take some time for detectives to work it.

Speaking at the scene, Mayor Brandon Scott branded the shooting a cowardly act (WBAL-TV 11 Baltimore)

"I want those who are responsible to hear me, and hear me very clearly, the mayor continued. We will not stop until we find you, and we will find you. Until then, I hope that every single breath you take, that you think about the lives that you took, think about the lives that you impacted here tonight."

He asked anyone with information to come forward to assist investigators, saying: "Treat this as if it were your family. How you would want people to treat it if you were mourning, if this was your neighborhood, if this was an event in your community that this happened at. We want you to treat it that way because that's how we have to treat each other as Baltimoreans."

Councilwoman Phylicia Porter, of District 10 Baltimore City, wrote on social media: Our hearts are heavy as we learn about the devastating mass shooting incident. She added: Please keep the victims and their families in your thoughts as we navigate through this tragedy.

Hundreds of people had been gathered for an event called Brooklyn Day, witnesses told WBFF-TV, while others reported to Fox 45 that they had heard 20 to 30 shots fired.

More follows on this breaking news story...
A police officer stands in the area of a mass shooting incident in the Southern District of Baltimore, Sunday, July 2, 2023. Police say a number of people were killed and dozens were wounded in a mass shooting that took place during a block party just after midnight. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)

BALTIMORE (AP)  Gunfire erupted at a block party in Baltimore on Sunday  killing two people, wounding 28 and leaving an extensive crime scene that marred the U.S. holiday weekend, police said. Three of the wounded were in critical condition and more than a dozen were under 18.

The shooting took place just after 12:30 a.m. when at least two people opened fire at a block party in the Brooklyn Homes area in the southern part of the city, said Richard Worley, Baltimore's acting police commissioner. No arrests had been made by late afternoon. It wasn't clear if the shooting was targeted or random, Worley said.

The shooting comes amid gatherings around the country leading up to the July Fourth holiday. Elsewhere, a shooting in Kansas left seven people with gunshot wounds and two more victims hospitalized after being trampled as people rushed out of a nightclub early Sunday morning, police there said.

The violence in Baltimore occurred as federal prosecutors there this week touted their efforts to reduce violent crime in the city. Police have reported nearly 130 homicides and close to 300 shootings so far this year, though thats down from the same time last year. Authorities have vowed to crack down aggressively on repeat violent offenders.

Nine of Sunday's victims were taken by ambulance and 20 walked into area hospitals with injuries from the shooting, Worley said. Nine remained hospitalized Sunday afternoon.

The deceased victims were identified as 18-year-old Aaliyah Gonzalez and 20-year-old Kylis Fagbemi, police said Sunday. Gonzalez died at the scene, and Fagbemi died at the hospital. The 28 injured ranged in age from 13 to 32, with more than half of them being younger than 18, officials said.

I want those who are responsible to hear me, and hear me very clearly, Mayor Brandon Scott said at the scene. We will not stop until we find you, and we will find you. Until then, I hope that every single breath you take, that you think about the lives that you took, think about the lives that you impacted here tonight.

Scott asked anyone with information to come forward to help investigators locate the cowards who were responsible for the shooting.

Gov. Wes Moore said his heart breaks for these victims, their families, and the Baltimore community that is coping with the loss.

Maryland has had enough of watching gun violence continue to ravage our state and our nation, Moore said in a statement. The fact that these horrific shootings continue to take place is abominable. We as a state will continue to do everything we can to prevent senseless acts of violence like the one we saw last night.

Authorities said the crime scene was extensive and that it took some time for detectives to work it.

Hours after the shooting, a number of officers remained working behind police tape amid densely packed two-story housing blocks. Folding tables and plastic cups were scattered on the street, apparently left behind when people ran from the gunshots.

Lakell Nelson said there had been several false alarms of people mistaking the sounds of fireworks for gunfire earlier in the night while she was at the block party. The actual shooting started as she was getting to her car.

The shots were just going on and on and on, she said.

Thats when two young women approached her and said they had been shot, with one woman showing how a bullet had gone through her shorts.

Nelson said she told the women to get in the car, and she sped through red lights to get to the nearest hospital.

When I pulled up to the door of the hospital, my car was almost getting ready to be inside the hospital, because I was determined to get those babies in that hospital, Nelson said.

A police union official said in an email Sunday there were no officers specifically assigned to the gathering.

There were only three officers assigned to the Brooklyn area of Baltimore Citys Southern District. This is a large area, and to police it safely and effectively you need about seven to eight officers per shift, said Mike Mancuso, president of the Baltimore City Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 3.

Mancuso said about 2,800 officers are needed to effectively police the city, but staffing is down to about 2,100.

Worley said Sunday afternoon that the department hadn't been aware in advance that the event was happening, and he said organizers hadn't received a permit. He said that the department would examine its response.

___

Ramer reported from Concord, New Hampshire. Kimberlee Kruesi in Nashville, Tennessee, contributed to this report.

___

This story was first published on July 2, 2023. It has been updated July 3, 2023, to correct the misspelling of the last name of the woman killed. Her correct name was Aaliyah Gonzalez, not Aaliyah Gonzales.
Baltimore shooting latest: Teenager among two killed in Brooklyn Day attack as gunman still at large

A teenager is among the two people dead after a mass shooting in Baltimore.

An 18-year-old female was pronounced dead at the scene, while a 20-year-old male was pronounced dead after being taken to a local hospital, police said.

Meanwhile, 28 are injured, including three people who are in critical condition.

Nine people were transported to area hospitals after being found with gunshot wounds by police.

Police said the gunman remains at large, but clarified there is no known motive at this time. Baltimore Police Department acting commissioner Richard Worley said investigators are working an extensive crime scene.

The shooting took place in the 800 block of Gretna Avenue early Sunday morning.

Hundreds of people were gathered in the area for an event called Brooklyn Day, a witness told TV station Fox 45, adding that they had heard 20 to 30 shots fired

Mayor Brandon Scott described the shooting as reckless and cowardly.

We will not stop until we find youand we will find you, Mr Scott said, speaking about the perpetrator.

Key Points

Two dead, three critical and 25 more injured as gunman still at large

Mayor condemns 'reckless, cowardly' mass shooting of 30 people

Witnesses heard 20 to 30 shots fired

No arrests made as gunman still at large

Nine critically injured as eight patients released from hospital following shooting

12:57 , Martha Mchardy

Medstar Harbor Hospitals emergency department treated 19 patients on Sunday morning, all suffering varying degrees of injury from gunshot wounds after the incident, MedStar Health Baltimore told Reuters in an emailed response.

Nine critically injured patients were stabilized and transferred to Baltimore trauma centers, it said, adding that all but one patient had been released.

Latest from scene of Baltimore shooting that killed two and injured 28

12:55 , Martha Mchardy

BPD is on scene of a mass shooting incident in the 800 blk of Gretna Court in our Southern District (Baltimore Police)

Treat this as if it were your family, says Baltimore mayor

12:45 , Martha Mchardy

Baltimore mayor Brandon Scott has condemned a mass shooting which killed two and injured 28 people in the city.

Treat this as if it were your family, Mr Scott said. How you would want people to treat it if you were mourning, if this was your neighborhood, if this was an event in your community that this happened at.

Baltimore Police Department acting commissioner Richard Worley speaks during a news conference, alongside mayor Brandon Scott (AP)

We want you to treat it that way because thats how we have to treat each other as Baltimoreans.

No arrests have been made. Meanwhile, police said the gunman remains at large, but clarified there is no motive at this time.

18 and 20-year-old killed in mass shooting, say poice

12:03 , Martha Mchardy

An 18-year-old female was pronounced dead at the scene and a 20-year-old male was pronounced dead after being taken to a local hospital, the police said.

Some 28 others are injured, including three people who are in critical condition, after a mass shooting at a block party in Baltimore.

All the victims are adults.

No arrests made as gunman still at large

11:54 , Martha Mchardy

No arrests were made immediately after the shooting, which took place in the 800 block of Gretna Avenue early Sunday morning.

Police said the gunman remains at large, but clarified there is no motive at this time. Baltimore Police Department acting commissioner Richard Worley said investigators are working an extensive crime scene.

Two people have died, and 28 are injured, including three people who are in critical condition, after a mass shooting at a block party in Baltimore, police said.

Watch mayor Scotts statment following mass shooting

11:50 , Martha Mchardy

Baltimores mayor has condemned a reckless, cowardly mass shooting in the city that left two people dead and three fighting for their lives in the early hours of Sunday, 2 July.

At least 25 more people have been injured in the incident, which occurred at a block party in the Brooklyn Homes area of South Baltimore.

Mayor Brandon Scott addressed the perpetrator during a press conference: I hope with every single breath that you take that you think about the lives that you took and you think about the lives that you impacted here tonight.

Holly Patrick reports:

Baltimore: Mayor condemns reckless mass shooting of 30 people

20 people walked into hospitals following shooting

11:45 , Martha Mchardy

Two people have died, and 28 are injured, including three people who are in critical condition, after a mass shooting in Baltimore, police said.

Nine people were transported from the scene to local hospitals, while 20 others affected walked into hospitals in the area, police said.

30 victims confirmed in mass shooting

11:34 , Sam Rkaina

Baltimore Police Department acting commissioner Richard Worley confirmed there were a total of 30 victims of the mass shooting during a press conference at the scene.

Two were killed, while 28 were injured, including three who are in a critical condition. All of the victims were adults.

I want those who are responsible to hear me, and hear me very clearly, mayor Brandon Scott said at the scene.

We will not stop until we find you, and we will find you. Until then, I hope that every single breath you take, that you think about the lives that you took, think about the lives that you impacted here tonight.

No arrests were made immediately after the shooting. Scott asked anyone with information to come forward to assist investigators locate the cowards who were responsible for the shooting.

Treat this as if it were your family, Mr Scott said. How you would want people to treat it if you were mourning, if this was your neighborhood, if this was an event in your community that this happened at.

We want you to treat it that way because thats how we have to treat each other as Baltimoreans.

Our hearts are heavy, says Baltimore councillor as two killed and 28 injured

11:31 , Martha Mchardy

In a statement posted on Facebook, councilwoman Phylicia Porter said: Our hearts are heavy as we learn about the devastating mass shooting incident at Brooklyn Homes near 800 Herndon Ct.

Our office is gathering more information and to support those affected. We are in constant communication with the Scott Administration, Baltimore City Police Department, the community, and other relevant stakeholders.

Please keep the victims and their families in your thoughts as we navigate through this tragedy.

Mayor Scott condemns mass shooting

11:27 , Martha Mchardy

Mayor Scott said: This was a reckless, cowardly act that happened here and that has permanently altered many lives and cost two people their lives.

We will not stop until we find youand we will find you, Mr Scott said, speaking about the perpetrator.

Until then, I hope with every single breath that you take that you think about the lives that you took and you think about the lives that you impacted here tonight, he added.

Witnesses heard 20 to 30 shots fired - Fox 45

11:19 , Martha Mchardy

Hundreds of people were gathered in the area for an event called Brooklyn Day, a witness told TV station Fox 45, adding that they had heard 20 to 30 shots fired.

Watch: Mayor condemns 'reckless, cowardly' mass shooting of 30 people

11:08 , Martha Mchardy

Two dead and 28 injured in block party attack as gunman still at large

11:08 , Martha Mchardy

Two people have died, and 28 are injured, including three people who are in critical condition, after a mass shooting in Baltimore, police said.

Baltimore Police Department acting commissioner Richard Worley confirmed the number of dead and injured during a press conference at the scene.

Nine people were transported to area hospitals after police arrived at the scene to find one woman dead, Baltimore Worley said.

Police said the gunman remains at large, but clarified there is no motive at this time. Worley said investigators are working an extensive crime scene.

The shooting took place in the 800 block of Gretna Avenue early Sunday morning.

Mayor Brandon Scott described the shooting as reckless and cowardly.

He said: This was a reckless, cowardly act that happened here and that has permanently altered many lives and cost two people their lives.

We will not stop until we find youand we will find you, mayor Scott said, speaking about the perpetrator.

Police officials have urged anyone with information to come forward.
This battleship was one of the first and last ships hit in World War II

The U.S. Navy battleship USS Pennsylvania (BB-38) leads USS Colorado (BB-45), USS Louisville (CA-28), USS Portland (CA-33), and USS Columbia (CL-56) into Lingayen Gulf before the landing on Luzon, Philippines in January 1945.

The USS Pennsylvania has a regretful honor. The ship fought and took damage at Pearl Harbor and was the last major warship damaged in World War II. It survived bombings on December 7, 1941, and a torpedo strike on August 12, 1945. The Pennsylvania crew took part in every major Naval offensive in the Pacific and earned eight battle stars and the Navy Commendation Award during the war.

USS Pennsylvania at Pearl Harbor

The USS Pennsylvania took damage in the first American battle of the war. (As we've previously covered, though, it wasn't the first American engagement of the war.) When the Japanese fighters and bombers flew into Pearl Harbor, seven battleships floated in the harbor, and one sat in dry dock. It was the Pennsylvania that sat in dry dock with the destroyers Cassin and Downes.

Japanese bombers hit the dry docks hard, triggering fires so intense that Cassin and Downes' hulls twisted. But the more sturdily built Pennsylvania only took one bomb amidships and so was able to fight throughout the day.

The USS Pennsylvania crew helped in the anti-aircraft fight, provided damage control personnel to other ships, and helped fight fires in the dry docks. Because of its relatively light damage, the Pennsylvania pushed out to sea long before most casualties of Pearl Harbor, returning to training and then patrols in April 1942.

USS Pennsylvania (BB-38) is astern, occupying the rest of the drydock.

USS Pennsylvania in the Pacific

Pennsylvania served with Task Force 1 during the Battle of Midway but did not see combat. The Navy ordered it into port for a major overhaul before sending the ship to Alaska in April 1943 to help re-capture Alaskan islands from Japanese occupiers.

The Pennsylvania's big guns bombarded Japanese positions onshore and supported troop landings at Attu and Kiska in the successful campaign. According to a Navy history, the ship then:

In November 1943, the USS Pennsylvania bombarded Makin during the amphibious assault on the Gilbert Islands. She repeated this role a few months later at Kwajalein and Eniwetok, and in June and July 1944 at Saipan, Tinian and Guam. Her guns supported landings in the Palaus in September 1944 and at Leyte in October. USS Pennsylvania (BB-38, originally Battleship # 38), 1916-1948

During the landings at Leyte, the Japanese Navy attempted a crushing blow on the U.S. fleet in Operation Sho Go. This vain Japanese gambit pitted aging ships against the larger, modernized American fleet at Leyte Gulf. Fortunately for the Americans, U.S. submarines spotted one of the Japanese attack forces, radioed intelligence to the Pacific command, and then sank two cruisers.

When one of the larger Japanese forces reached the landings at Leyte Gulf, a line of six American battleships awaited them with surface radar that made them more accurate at longer ranges than their Japanese adversaries. Five of the battleships, including Pennsylvania, had survived Pearl Harbor, and they got their revenge at the Battle of Surigao Strait, pummeling the attempted Japanese surprise attack.

USS Pennsylvania landed two more blows to the Japanese in 1945, bombarding Santiago Island and Wake Island in support of operations there. But Japan had one more surprise for the Pennsylvania, as well. On August 12, 1945, the Pennsylvania floated at anchor and supported operations on Okinawa. A Japanese torpedo bomber managed to hide its approach and send a fish into the water against the battleship.

It hit, killing 20 crewmen and making the Pearl Harbor survivor the last major surface ship damaged by Japan ahead of its September 2 surrender in 1945.

The U.S. Navy battleship USS Pennsylvania (BB-38) underway off New York City (USA) during the Naval Review before President Franklin D. Roosevelt, 31 May 1934. Pennsylvania was then serving as flagship of the Commander in Chief, U.S. Fleet, Admiral David F. Sellers, USN.

USS Pennsylvania after the war

The Pennsylvania, originally launched in 1915, was now a veteran of two World Wars (though she saw no active combat in World War I) and 30 years old. The Navy prepared to drawdown its size after the war and made the decision not to fully repair the torpedo damage or overhaul the ship.

The USS Pennsylvania, instead, became a target ship for atomic bomb testing and was scuttled at sea in February 1948.

Two of her World War II guns were discovered in a gun barrel storage yard 50 years after the war. They now proudly sit outside of the Pennsylvania Military Museum.
An inscription appeared on the building of the embassy of Belarus in the Netherlands, dedicated, presumably, to the dictator Oleksandr Lukashenka

Graffiti maligning Belarusian dictator Alexander Lukashenko has appeared on the walls of the Belarusian embassy in The Hague, the Netherlands, local outlet Omroep West reported on July 2.

The inscriptions read, in both Latin and Cyrillic, Long live Belarus!, Long live forever! and Luka is a terrorist. Three of the embassys windows were also shattered.

Read also: Nearly 1,500 Russian troops remain in Belarus, Ukraine says

Netherlands police have cordoned off the embassy's territory and launched an investigation, detaining a 31-year-old man suspected of the attack.

Dutch MP Sord Sordsma condemned the attack on the embassy in his Twitter account, emphasizing that such vandalism makes Dutch diplomats abroad more unprotected.

Read also: Poland to bolster border security after Wagner mercenaries arrival in Belarus

No matter how you rightly get angry at the regime of Belarus, Russia or other countries, do not attack their embassies or residences, he demanded.

You are not helping anyone and making our diplomats in these countries less safe.

Lukashenko is widely disliked bother domestically and internationally, due to his forging of elections in 2020, and his quartering of Russian troops involving in invading Ukraine. Kyiv in particular was targeted by Russian forces who had been redeployed to Belarus.

Read also: Lukashenko orders Belarusian army to full combat readiness

Russia also uses Belarusian military air bases for launching mass air attacks on Ukraine.

Lukashenko also acted as a mediator in the recent conflict between Wagner mercenary company chief Yevgeny Prigozhin and the Russian authorities.

Read also: Lukashenko to be tried in The Hague for same crimes as Putin, says Ukrainian ex-envoy to Belarus

The Belarusian dictator held talks with Prigozhin as his mercenaries closed in on Moscow, Lukashenkos press office claimed, culminating in a deal where Prigozhin agreed to halt his forces advance on the Russian capital  in exchange for dropping charges and changes at the Russian Ministry of Defense.

Lukashenko claimed that the negotiations lasted an entire day, and as a result Prigozhin agreed to halt his move on Moscow in exchange for "security guarantees" for his mercenaries.

In a video address on June 26, Russian dictator Vladimir Putin offered three options to the Wagner mercenaries who had participated in the mutiny attempt  return to civilian life, sign contracts with the regular Russian military, or relocate to Belarus.

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Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine
Worries from U.S. voters that President Biden is too old to serve another four-year term as president are increasingly looking like the biggest challenge the president faces in winning reelection next year.

Biden, at the age of 80, is already the oldest person to serve as president, and he would be 86 at the end of his second term.

The longevity would beat any other president who served by a large margin. Former President Reagan finished his second term at 77, while former President Trump  who is the favorite to win the GOP presidential nomination  ended his first term at 74.

Biden has some work to do to convince voters he has the mental and physical capacity to run for reelection.

A whopping 68 percent of voters in a recent NBC News poll said they worry about Bidens health with 55 percent reflecting major concerns.

In a USA Today/Suffolk University poll of Democrats and Independents, 37 percent say the presidents age made them less likely to vote for him. A third poll from The Economist-YouGov found that 45 percent of independents say Bidens health and age severely limit his ability to do the job.

The presidents age is certainly going to be a headwind on his reelection campaign. The polling says so, and the examples will certainly keep coming as he is in the public eye, said Stewart Verdery, who served in former President George W. Bushs administration.

But Verdery, the CEO of Monument Advocacy, said Bidens age might not be as much of an issue in a general election against Trump, who is 77 years old.

If he were likely running against a modern JFK on a sailboat, it might be more of an issue. But as long as his main foil is in Mar-a-Lago, the presidents age may cause swing voters to pause before they still pull the lever for him, he said.

The White House this week pushed back on questions about Bidens health.

The president  shoot, he traveled yesterday, hes traveling again today. You saw how extensively he traveled during the midterms. And especially his foreign travel, this is someone who is incredibly active as president, press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said Thursday.

Biden increasingly has been self-deprecating about his age, joking he is 198, 103 or 110 in recent speeches.

Hes acknowledging his age is an issue for some voters, and he has reportedly sought the counsel of Hollywood mogul Jeffrey Katzenberg, who is encouraging him to own his longevity like Harrison Ford and Mick Jagger.

By the way, Ive been doing this a long time. I know I dont look that old. I know. Im a little under 103, Biden said in recent remarks. But all kidding aside  I was a pretty powerful senator.

Still, the 80-year-old presidents age is also now something that carries over into everything he does, putting a physical or verbal stumble under a different kind of microscope.

When he tripped and fell at an event earlier this summer, there were worries about his health. To his political foes, it was evidence of his fragile state, even if a younger man might also have tripped.

On Monday night and Tuesday, Biden, who has a long history of misstatements, twice confused Ukraine for Iraq.

Opponents seize on these mistakes as evidence that Biden has lost a step and should not be running for a second term.

Republican presidential candidate Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, in an interview with Fox News this week, said he thinks California Gov. Gavin Newsom (D) is maneuvering in the background, and it would be interesting to see how things play out if Biden doesnt ultimately make it.

They would have a real clown show if Biden wasnt able to make it, he added. His comments echo fellow Republican presidential candidate Nikki Haley, who said in April that Biden is unlikely to make it to 86.

Some political analysts think the GOP is playing with fire in going after Bidens age, even if it is an issue for some voters. They say it risks angering older voters.

You can point it out, but you dont want to lean in too heavily here, said GOP strategist Doug Heye. Tone is important here. You can talk about mistakes that hes made and so forth. But if youre over the top, you [risk] a backlash, especially with senior voters.

The Hill Elections 2024 coverage

Jim Kessler, executive vice president for policy for the Democratic think tank Third Way, said the best thing for the White House to do is focus on the presidents accomplishments.

They can make a counterargument, which is that his experience has made the difference. And if you looked at what hes accomplished in the last two and a half years, its close to a biblical miracle, he said. Like, no one thought the number of bipartisan bills passed the last Congress was possible. And it happened. He outfoxed Vladimir Putin.

The White House this week confirmed Biden began using a CPAP machine in recent weeks to improve his sleep quality after reporters noticed lines visible on his face.

While Trump is nearing 80, Republicans argue his apparent energy gives him an advantage over Biden.

Heye said voters will ultimately get to compare the two if they win their parties nominations and debate.

Democrats are brushing off the verbal gaffes, noting they took place with Biden was younger, too.

President Bidens age has been an issue since before the 2020 election, and hes been notorious for making gaffes most of his political career. Theres really not much new here, one Biden ally said.

Biden faces other challenges, including the economy and son Hunter Bidens legal problems, which have drawn GOP scrutiny. These are also factors in his lower approval ratings which have lingered around 40 percent.

Still, many see age as an issue where Biden will once again have to prove something to the electorate.

The No. 1 thing I hear about Biden, and it doesnt matter where I am, is his age. And thats true of people who like them. Thats true people who dont like him, Heye said. So hes got a real problem there.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Biden slammed after report reveals number of grandchildren his aides instructed to say publicly: 'Monsters'

Biden slammed after report reveals number of grandchildren his aides instructed to say publicly: 'Monsters'

President Biden is facing backlash from conservatives following a report that his aides have been told to say publicly that he only has six grandchildren, omitting Hunter Bidens 4-year-old estranged daughter.

The presidents son, Hunter Biden, settled his child support case in Arkansas last week, ending a years-long paternity dispute over his 4-year-old daughter, whom both the president and the first lady refuse to acknowledge as their seventh grandchild.

Announced in a court filing on Thursday, Hunter agreed to give his daughter some of his paintings, and the mother of the child, Lunden Alexis Roberts, agreed to withdraw her counterclaim to change their child's last name to "Biden."

The New York Times released a damning report Saturday saying the family dispute is rooted in "money, corrosive politics and what it means to have the Biden birthright."

President Biden lifts Hunter's son Beau upon returning to Washington, D.C., on June 30, 2022.

President Biden walks with his grandson Beau Biden after arriving on Marine One at Fort McNair in Washington, D.C., on June 25, 2023.

TIMELINE OF BIDEN ADVISER'S COMMUNICATIONS WITH HUNTER, MEETINGS WITH VP ABOUT BURISMA RAISES QUESTIONS

White House aides have been told during strategy meetings that the president and first lady Jill Biden have six, not seven, grandchildren, two people familiar with the discussions told the newspaper.

READ ON THE FOX NEWS APP

In April, Biden listed six of his grandchildren by name during a "take your child to work day" event at the White House.

"I have six grandchildren, and Im crazy about them. And I speak to them every single day. Not a joke," he said at the time.

Biden has also put up Christmas stockings at the White House for six of the grandchildren, but has repeatedly left his seventh grandchild out of the annual tradition.

BIDEN FAMILY STOCKINGS OMIT HUNTER'S OUT-OF-WEDLOCK DAUGHTER FOR SECOND YEAR IN A ROW

But as Biden seeks re-election in 2024 and as the speculation into Hunters foreign business dealings ramps up, the president has decided to more publicly embrace his son, Hunter, and grandson, Beau, bringing them to Camp David for the last two weekends in a row.

Last month, the Justice Department announced that the presidents son had entered a plea agreement regarding two tax violations and a felony gun charge, which will likely keep him out of jail.

President Biden, his grandson Beau and his son Hunter watch the Fourth of July celebration at the White House, Monday, July 4, 2022.

Conservatives on Twitter called the claims in the Times report that the Bidens are shunning their granddaughter "gross" and "sad."

The White House didn't immediately respond to Fox News Digital's request for comment.
President Joe Biden will travel to the UK next week for two days ahead of a Nato summit in Vilnius, Lithuania.

Mr Biden will meet King Charles and Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, the White House said in a brief statement on Sunday. Buckingham Palace confirmed the news.

President Biden is scheduled to travel to the United Kingdom, Lithuania, and Finland from July 9-13. President Biden will first travel to London, United Kingdom for engagements with King Charles III and Prime Minister Rishi Sunak to further strengthen the close relationship between our nations, said White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre.

She added: The President will then travel to Vilnius, Lithuania from July 11-12 to attend the 74th NATO Summit. On July 13, President Biden will visit Helsinki, Finland for a U.S.-Nordic Leaders Summit. More details about the trip will be announced soon.

Mr Bidens first meeting with King Charles comes soon after the coronation of the British monarch, which he did not attend. First Lady Jill Biden and granddaughter Finnegan represented the US at the historic event. The US president last was in Europe in mid-April to mark the 25th anniversary of the Good Friday Agreement, and met with Irelands prime minister. He and the first lady travelled to London for the funeral of the late Queen last September.

Mr Biden spoke with Mr Sunak and other European leaders last week in the wake of the armed rebellion in Russia by the mercenary army Wagner Group. At the upcoming Nato summit, leaders including Mr Biden and Mr Sunak are expected to discuss Ukraines bid for entry.

The British Prime Minister, who is facing waves of political blows at home, travelled to Washington DC last month where he met with the president at the White House.
These are the big ideas Republicans are pushing for 2024

A version of this story appeared in CNNs What Matters newsletter. To get it in your inbox, sign up for free here.

Amend the Constitution! Touch the third rail! Think big and make things better!

This is the big ideas period of American politics  a time that occurs roughly every four years in the lead-up to a presidential election  when candidates push expansive proposals, usually short on specifics.

While the big ideas generally have little chance of becoming law, they speak to what the people who want to be president think will move primary voters.

With President Joe Biden currently a lock for the Democratic nomination, most of the intellectual action this year is among Republicans.

Below are some of the big ideas of the moment, which are usually unique to one or two candidates as opposed to positions that are standard for the party. I view these as distinct from the daily political issues  things like abortion rights, foreign policy, border security and gender rights, where there is a sliding scale of positions.

A mental competency test for candidates over 75

Former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley, who is 51, wants to impose a mental competency test for older candidates over 75.

With both of the current leading candidates  Biden and former President Donald Trump  well beyond when most people would consider retirement, age is already a major issue this year.

Its a smart way to tap into fears that Biden, in particular, has lost a step. But its hard to imagine it actually put into use. Who would administer this test? Who would assess the results? Why not all candidates?

The point of the democratic system is that voters should get to choose. This proposal would necessarily limit their choices.

On the other hand, age limits are not an entirely crazy idea. Corporations impose them on executives, for instance. Pilots have a mandatory retirement age of 65, although that could be raised in the near future to deal with a pilot shortage.

Raise the voting age

Republican presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy speaks during the annual Conservative Political Action Conference in National Harbor, Maryland. - Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images

Vivek Ramaswamy, a biotech founder, wants to raise the legal voting age to 25. Its hard to imagine how this would work since the current voting age of 18 is guaranteed in the 26th Amendment.

Democrats like former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi have in recent years pushed to go in the opposite direction, arguing to lower the voting age to 16.

Ramaswamy says there would be exceptions to raising the voting age, such as for people who join the military or otherwise meet a national service requirement. Others could pass the same test given to naturalized immigrants.

I want more civic engagement. My hypothesis is that when you attach greater value to the act, we will see more 18-to-25-year-olds actually vote than do now, Ramaswamy told The Washington Post.

Raise the retirement age to save Social Security and Medicare

Nikki Haley and former Vice President Mike Pence are among those pushing to change the age at which Americans can access retirement benefits.

While both Trump and Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis are swearing up and down that they will protect these key parts of the social safety net, Haley and Pence are calling for a more honest discussion about the nations finances.

In their telling, raising the retirement age would only affect the youngest Americans  people in their 20s and younger, generations sure to live and work longer than their forebears.

But specifics are hard to come by, as CNNs Jake Tapper found when he asked Haley at a CNN town hall in early June what retirement age she is proposing. She said more calculations are needed to come up with a specific retirement age for people currently in their 20s.

Meantime, she said, were going to go tell them Times have changed. I think (Trump and DeSantis are) not being honest with the American people.

DeSantis did recently acknowledge in New Hampshire that Social Security is going to look a little bit different for younger generations.

Pence, at his own CNN town hall in early June, said raising the eligibility age for Social Security is one option to have the tough conversation about national spending, but not the only one.

It also could include letting younger Americans invest a portion of their payroll taxes in a mutual fund, like the TSP (Thrift Savings Plan) program that 10 million federal employees are in today, he said.

End birthright citizenship

Both former President Donald Trump and Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis want to revoke birthright citizenship, or the right of every person born in the US to be an American citizen.

They complain that even babies born to undocumented people become citizens. Birthright citizenship is guaranteed in the 14th Amendment, the key post-Civil War amendment that was meant to protect former slaves.

Trump has been teasing an end to birthright citizenship for years, but there is not currently a meaningful effort to change the Constitution.

Trump has pledged to sign an executive order. DeSantis has said he would lean on Congress and the court system. Actually changing the Constitution would be nearly impossible in todays political environment.

Build freedom cities and develop flying cars

Former President Donald Trumps most outside-the-box ideas have a futuristic Jetsons feel.

He wants to build new freedom cities on federal land to reopen the American frontier and give people a chance at home ownership. He argues the plan could revitalize American manufacturing.

And he envisions freeing Americans from hellish commutes by looking to the skies, taking the initiative to innovate vertical-takeoff vehicles. CNNs report on Trumps proposals notes that technology is already underway by industry, but a long way from being available to consumers.

A government-planned city might seem like a strange proposal for a candidate whose party has long embraced free market ideals. But the idea of a planned city is not completely foreign  just look at Washington, DC.

Repeal sentencing reform

Republican presidential candidate Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis speaks during a town hall event in Hollis, New Hampshire on June 27, 2023. - Josh Reynolds/AP

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis wants to undo Trumps greatest bipartisan achievement: The First Step Act, a criminal justice and sentencing reform law.

The product of intense bipartisan negotiations during Trumps term in office, the law was hailed for rethinking harsh prison sentences for nonviolent drug offenders.

But the political landscape has changed since 2018, when Trump signed the law as president and DeSantis voted for it as a congressman. Now, DeSantis calls the law the jailbreak bill.

Both men want to impose the death penalty for drug offenders, an especially awkward pivot for Trump, who has bragged about his compassion in setting drug dealers like Alice Johnson free when he commuted her sentence. The case helped build support for the First Step Act. Her crime could have made her eligible for the death penalty under his new plan.

Trump still brags about the First Step Act, and repealing it would take help from Democrats in the Senate.

DeSantis, meanwhile, is moving to the right of Trump on crime and even vetoed a bipartisan criminal justice law in Florida that passed easily through the Republican-dominated legislature.

Pence also said in his CNN town hall he would take a step back from the First Step Act  though it is unclear what that means in practical terms.

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When Sabrina Lewis was crowned Miss California 2023 at the Visalia Convention Center on Saturday evening, the 25-year-old Los Angeles resident became only the second Black candidate to capture the title.

Lewis, an equestrian competitor who is eying the 2028 Summer Olympics, will represent California at the Miss America 2024 pageant scheduled late this year or early next year in Connecticut.

The pageant life is no stranger to the 5-foot-9 Georgia native. She has competed in pageants since she was 8, and was Miss California USA 2021.

Despite that experience, Lewis said preparing for Miss California wasnt easy while finishing up her masters degree in public administration at UC Berkeley, modeling full-time, and practicing equestrian show jumping.

Miss California 2023 Sabrina Lewis (Miss Berkeley) reacts after hearing her name while first runner-up Asha Bhattacharya (Miss Anaheim Hills) applauds during the 99th edition of the pageant held at the Visalia Convention Center on July 1, 2023.







It was a lot to balance, but Im happy I made it through, said Lewis shortly after being crowned by Miss California 2022 Catherine Liang in front of an estimated 900 spectators.

The best advice I could give anyone to compete in pageants is take naps during every single break.

Lewis was judged the best of 49 competitors during the 3-hour pageant, and claimed a $20,000 scholarship among other prizes.

First runner-up went to Miss Anaheim Hills Asha Bhattacharya ($7,000 scholarship). The remaining top five in order were Miss Riverside City Taylor Yamane ($5,000), Miss Northern California Mahika Valluri ($4,000), and Miss Los Angeles County Katie Tessier ($2,500).

This was the first time in 26 years that the pageant has not been held in Fresno. Organizers left the states fifth-largest city for Visalia, Californias 40th most-populated city with about 26% of Fresnos 545,000 residents.

Miss California 2023 Sabrina Lewis (Miss Berkeley, on right) and runner-up Asha Bhattacharya (Miss Anaheim Hills) wait to hear the winner at the 99th edition of the pageant held at the Visalia Convention Center on July 1, 2023.







Miss California will remain in Visalia for five years.

Lewis is the first Black to win the state title since Simone Marie Stephens of Los Angeles in 1987.

A California representative has not won Miss America since Debra Sue Moffett did so in 1982.

Miss Berkeley Sabrina Lewis spoke about her journey as an African American equestrian during the Miss California Pageant held at the Visalia Convention Center on July 1, 2023.







Lewis  the only daughter of Richard and Sylvia Lewis (he recently retired from the Department of Veterans Affairs; she works for an agency within the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention)  spoke about her equestrian journey as part of her talent presentation.

There is no talent portion in the Miss USA system; and I felt like part of me was missing because a big part of my life is being an equestrian athlete, riding horses, said Lewis. Ive been riding horses since I was like five years old.

She would love to compete at the 2028 Summer Olympics, which are scheduled in Los Angeles where she currently lives. To get there, shell need a horse.

I have a saddle company, a glove company, a helmet company, but I need the main component, which is a horse, to get to the Olympics and compete at that high level, she said. Winning the national title, she figures, will help.

Miss Berkeley Sabrina Lewis participates in the health and fitness portion of the Miss California Pageant held at the Visalia Convention Center on July 1, 2023.







You know, I didnt win at Miss USA, but I truly believe that I would make a wonderful national titleholder and would make a great Miss America, said Lewis, who is fluent in Spanish.

Lewis, whose career goal is to be a professor of public policy and non-profit studies, earned her masters of public administration this year from the University of Georgia.

She would like to see the pageant get more involved with veterans service organizations. Her father is an Army veteran.

Miss America implements changes

The Miss America Organization adjusted the competition this year to allow contestants to present HERstory, a slide show presentation about their lives.

Top Five finalist Asha Bhattacharya (Miss Anaheim Hills) answers a question during the 99th edition of the Miss California Pageant at the Visalia Convention Center on July 1, 2023.







Lewis and the other final 12 contestants participated in a health and fitness competition worth 20% of the point total, the first time competitors have been judged on fitness since the swimsuit category was eliminated in 2019.

A private interview conducted by the judges accounted for 30% of total. Talent (20%), evening gown (20%), and on-stage conversation (10%) also contributed to the total.

Other pageant notes

 Miss San Francisco Monroe Lace fell short of becoming the first transgender woman to win the California title. The UCLA graduate, however, did make it to the final 12 and won the Peoples Choice Award.

Miss San Francisco Monroe Lace performs the monologue Phenomenal Woman during the Miss California Pageant held at the Visalia Convention Center on July 1, 2023.







 Miss Tulare County Elizabeth Sartuche, a Fresno State senior majoring in communications, was the only local contestant to make the final 12. She played the flute for her talent.

 Miss California CEO Russ Gladden, who called Visalia the Crown Jewel of the San Joaquin Valley, said donations by the pistachio association kept the organization from going bankrupt during the pandemic.

Miss Tulare County Elizabeth Sartuche plays the flute during the Miss California Pageant held at the Visalia Convention Center on July 1, 2023.







 Marlie Wright of San Diego won the Miss Californias Teen crown during the pageant held Saturday afternoon.

 Other local Miss California contestants included Pazao Lor (Central California), Bella Rodriguez (City of Fresno), Loie Madsen (Clovis), Laura Sparks (Kings County), Ananya Veerapaneni (Merced County), Chelsie Muro (Sanger/Sunnyside), Olivia Harden (Central Valley), and Angela Adade (San Joaquin).

 Visalia Mayor Brian Poochigian, during a 2-minute address, said he is looking forward to hosting the 100th pageant next year.

(This story was updated to add one more local contestant).

Miss Northern California Mahika Valluri performs a Bollywood dance during the Miss California Pageant held at the Visalia Convention Center on July 1, 2023.







Top Five finalist Sabrina Lewis (Miss Berkeley) answers a question during the 99th edition of the Miss California Pageant at the Visalia Convention Center on July 1, 2023.







Top Five finalist Taylor Yamane (Miss Riverside City) answers a question during the 99th edition of the Miss California Pageant at the Visalia Convention Center on July 1, 2023.







Top Five finalist Mahika Valluri (Miss Northern California) answers a question during the 99th edition of the Miss California Pageant at the Visalia Convention Center on July 1, 2023.







Top Five finalist Katie Tessier (Miss Los Angeles County) answers a question during the 99th edition of the Miss California Pageant at the Visalia Convention Center on July 1, 2023.






Boston Police seek publics help in finding missing 14-year-old girl from Allston

Boston Police are seeking the publics help to find 14-year-old Skarleth Payez Rodenzno of Allston, who was reported missing 12 days ago, police said.

Skarleth was reported missing on Tuesday, June 20 in the area of Haskell Street.

Police described Skarleth as a Hispanic female, approximately 5 feet, 2 inches tall and weighing about 90 pounds, with black hair. She was last seen wearing a black sweater, black sweatpants, and black Crocs.

Boston Police are seeking the publics help to find 14-year-old Skarleth Payez Rodenzno of Allston, who was reported missing on June 20, 2023.

She is known to visit the Mattapan, Roxbury, Mass. Ave. and Back Bay areas, police said.

Anyone with information regarding her whereabouts is urged to call 911 or Boston detectives at 617-343-4256.

You may also share information with police anonymously by calling the CrimeStoppers Tip Line at 1-800-494-TIPS or by texting the word TIP to CRIME (27463).

On Saturday, Boston Police made another appeal to the public to help find two missing 13-year-old boys from Roslindale who were last seen on Wednesday.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available.

Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts.

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A bus full of migrants arrived in Los Angeles on Saturday from Texas, the second such load of migrants to the city in recent weeks, according to reports from CNN.

More than 40 people, including 11 children, from around Central and South America were bused from Texas immigration facilities. The Los Angeles government was not informed about the incoming migrants and had less than a day to prepare for their arrival, a city spokesperson said.

Texas Gov. Greg Abbott began a migrant busing program last year, citing overcrowding in Texas immigration facilities and politics. Buses have only been sent to so-called sanctuary cities with Democratic leadership, where undocumented immigrants have additional protections from police.

Abbott has also directed buses to Washington, D.C., New York City, Chicago, Philadelphia and Denver. About 23,000 people have been bused out of Texas, Abbott claims.

This includes around 100 migrants in two buses that were sent to Vice President Kamala Harris residence in Washington, D.C. earlier this year.

The first bus of migrants to arrive in Los Angeles came in mid-June. Mayor Karen Bass called the move a political stunt.

Los Angeles is not a city motivated by hate or fear and we absolutely will not be swayed or moved by petty politicians playing with human lives, she said.

Abbott announced the first busload of migrants proudly on Twitter.

Small Texas border towns remain overrun & overwhelmed because Biden refuses to secure the border, he wrote. LA is a city migrants seek to go to, particularly now its leaders approved its self-declared sanctuary status.

The 41 migrants who arrived Saturday are receiving assistance from numerous non-profit groups for housing, legal aid and food needs, according to CNN.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg on Sunday blamed severe weather for the large number of flight cancellations causing headaches for travelers ahead of the holiday weekend.

They really shot up at the first part of the week, largely because of severe weather hitting some of our key hubs, Buttigieg told CBSs Margaret Brennan on Face the Nation. I think most passengers understand that no one can control the weather, but anything thats under the control of the airlines and anything that we can do on the FAA side, we need to continue pushing to make sure that theres the smoothest possible experience for air passengers everywhere.

More than 2,000 flights were delayed as the Fourth of July holiday weekend kicked off on Saturday. Severe weather cancelled and delayed hundreds of flights on the East Coast at the beginning of last week, but the issues remained after the weather passed. Some airlines have blamed the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) for poor staffing levels.

Well, if you look at the overall picture, weve seen a lot of improvements but we had a hard few days with severe weather at the beginning of the week, Buttigieg said. And that definitely put enormous pressure on the system. Now the good news is on Friday we saw according to [Transportation Security Administration], a record number of airline passengers probably the most ever in America, and we saw those cancellation rates stay low.

Even as some airlines blamed the FAA, Buttigieg said Sunday that less than 10 percent of delays are due to staffing issues. He said that the Transportation Department is set to hire 1,500 more air traffic controllers this year and an additional 1,800 next year to help address staffing issues.

Well, first of all, let me be very clear that even according to the industrys own data, air traffic control staffing issues account for less than 10 percent of the delay minutes in the system, but I would rather that number be zero, he said. So even though this isnt the number one cause or even the number two cause of flight disruptions, it is something that is very important to tackle and were doing exactly that.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg on Sunday called the Supreme Court out of step with Americans over an opinion that sided with a Christian wedding website designer who rejected providing services for same-sex couples.

As Im getting ready to go back to my husband and our twins for the rest of this morning, Im thinking about the fact that the existence of our family is only a reality because of a one vote margin on the Supreme Court a few years ago, Buttigieg told CBSs Margaret Brennan on Face the Nation. These are the kinds of things that are at stake and we have a Supreme Court that is very much out of step with how most Americans view these issues.

Buttigieg, who is openly gay, blasted the courts decision Friday that ruled that Colorado cannot require an evangelical Christian web designer to provide same-sex wedding websites. He also said that cases like these are used to get people riled about LGBTQ issues, adding that it diminishes the equality of same-sex couples.

I think whats really revealing is that theres no evidence that this web designer was ever even approached by a same sex couple looking for services to support their wedding, he said. So youre seeing more and more of these cases in these circumstances that are designed to get people spun up and designed to chip away at rights.

The court ruled that Colorados anti-discrimination law violates the web designers free speech rights under the First Amendment by demanding she create same-sex wedding websites if she wants to also do so for opposite-sex unions. Buttigieg also questioned whether the U.S. has already seen the high watermark of freedoms and rights in this country.

Because up until now, not uniformly, but overall, each generation was able to say that it enjoyed greater inclusion, greater equality, and more rights and freedoms than the generation before and those decisions have added up and affected so many people, he said.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
WASHINGTON  Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg condemned Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis on Sunday over a campaign video that criticizes former President Donald Trump for his past support for LGBTQ Americans.

I just don't understand the mentality of somebody who gets up in the morning, thinking that he's going to prove his worth by competing over who can make life hardest for a hard-hit community that is already so vulnerable in America, Buttigieg said during an appearance on CNNs State of the Union.

The video, released on the DeSantis War Room Twitter account on Friday, the last day of Junes LGBTQ Pride Month, has been criticized by gay-rights groups and even some Republicans as bordering on homophobia.

Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg

It shows footage of Trump at the 2016 Republican National Convention saying he would do everything in his power to protect LGBTQ citizens. He had been pledging protection from terrorist attacks weeks after the shootings at the Pulse Nightclub, a gay nightclub in Orlando, Florida, that was the deadliest mass shooting in U.S. history at that time.

The video also highlights LGBTQ for Trump T-shirts sold by the former presidents campaign and his past comments saying he would be comfortable with Caitlyn Jenner, the former Olympic decathlete who came out as a transgender woman in 2015, using any bathroom at Trump Tower.

Shifting gears, the video also shows images of DeSantis, who is seeking the GOP nomination for president, accompanied by dark, thumping music and promotes headlines about legislation he signed into law restricting transgender rights. The images are spliced together with footage of muscular, shirtless men and several Hollywood actors, including Brad Pitt, seen wearing a leather mask from the movie Troy.

Asked by CNN to respond to the video, Buttigieg, who is gay, said he was going to leave aside the strangeness of trying to prove your manhood by putting up a video that splices images of you in between oiled-up, shirtless bodybuilders and just get to the bigger issue that is on my mind whenever I see this stuff in the policy space, which is, again, who are you trying to help.

More: 'Extreme' and 'hateful' bills: Biden moves to protect LGBTQ Americans amid onslaught of attacks

Former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie, a rival of Trump and DeSantis in the 2024 GOP primary, also slammed the video as part of a teenage food fight between the two Republicans.

It certainly doesnt make me feel inspired, as an American, on the Fourth of July weekend to have this type of back and forth going on, Christie said on CNN. It is wrong to be doing it. And its narrowing our country and making us smaller.

Former Texas Congressman Will Hurd, who entered the race for the GOP presidential nomination in June, criticized the video and said candidates should concentrate on other issues.

I wish they would focus their attacks on war criminals like Vladimir Putin, not my friends in the LGBTQ community, Hurd said. It is 2023. We should be talking about how do we embrace our differences.

The Log Cabin Republicans, in a statement issued Friday, called the video divisive and desperate and said that DeSantis naive policy positions are dangerous and politically stupid.

Michael Collins covers the White House. Follow him on Twitter @mcollinsNEWS.

Contributing: Associated Press

More: Pete Buttigieg calls parenting twins 'the most demanding thing I think I've ever done'

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Buttigieg, Christie and others slam DeSantis over anti-LGBTQ video
Canada needs to use the Indigenous practice of prescribed burning for wildfire prevention, experts say

Experts say prescribed burning may be one solution to preventing future destructive wildfires in Canada. BC Wildfire Service/Handout via Reuters

Indigenous communities have used prescribed burning for centuries to maintain forest health.

The intentional, controlled burning eliminates dangerous fuel that could cause disastrous wildfires.

Canada has been slow to work with Indigenous communities to eliminate barriers to the practice, one expert said.

As smokes continues to drift south of the Canadian border into the US over the holiday weekend, experts are warning that Canada does not have enough resources or strategies in place to prevent these disasters in the future.

As a result, ecologists are calling on the Canadian government to eliminate barriers to the practice of prescribed burning, a key cultural and environmental practice that Indigenous people have used for thousands of years to maintain forest health and prevent wildfires.

"We don't do anywhere near enough prescribed burning," Canadian fire ecologist Robert Gray told CNN.

The practice involves the intentional, controlled burning of large wooded areas to eliminate fuel  such as certain grasses  that could allow future wildfires to burn uncontrollably. While Indigenous communities have used prescribed burning for thousands of years, legal barriers from the Canadian government have placed restrictions on who can burn what land, the Globe and Mail reported.

For instance, British Columbia banned cultural burns in 1874, making it the first Canadian province to do so. Now, Gray says it has fallen behind other countries  like the US and Australia  in lifting these restrictions and implementing government cooperation with Indigenous communities to pursue prescribed burning, according to the Globe and Mail.

"Right now we're burning about 10,000 hectares a year," Gray told CNN. "The state of New Jersey burns more than we do here at BC."

In April, the aq'am First Nation  a member community of the Ktunaxa Nation in southeastern British Columbia  worked alongside Canadian officials to undertake a successful two-day, 1,200 hectare prescribed burn, the Globe and Mail reported. In the days that followed, witnesses told the Globe and Mail that elk and deer displaced by overgrown forests had returned, the first sign of a successful burn.

"We're going to get a lot more big, ugly fires unless we do more prescribed burns," Gray, who attended the April burn, told the Globe and Mail.

Read the original article on Insider
Capitalism as we know it has failed. Not even the Tories can defend it

Canary Wharf

Larry Summers, the former US treasury secretary, once explained why he thought inequality had risen. One of the reasons, he said, is that people are being treated closer to the way that theyre supposed to be treated.

That story is recounted in Hell to Pay, a brilliant new book by Michael Lind about how the suppression of wages is driving economic, social and political crises in America. The idea that we are paid what we deserve  and that the decline in mid-skilled, mid-paid jobs simply reflects the high-tech, globalised economy in which we live  derives from free market theory. But it is, Lind argues, utter nonsense.

In Britain, like in America, the labour market has bifurcated because of political choices and corporate behaviour. Businesses have reduced employment costs by offshoring production to countries with lower labour standards and wages, or by using immigration to import cheaper workers. They have replaced full-time employees with rights and pensions with part-time contractors and gig economy workers. The post-war militancy and overreach of trade unions, and the restrictive laws that followed, has given employers monopsony power: that is, the ability to lower the price of labour because of their relative power over workers.

At the heart of all these changes is a model of globalisation that has caused the economic elites of the West to get richer, and which has allowed millions of people in Asia to escape poverty, but which has also relentlessly and systematically damaged the interests of the Western working  and increasingly middle  class.

Our model of globalisation was not, as Tony Blair put it, as inevitable as summer giving way to autumn. Trade agreements were struck, international institutions created, and when the likes of China broke the rules, dumped goods, stole industrial secrets, and used the system the West had created against us, reality was ignored. In as much as anybody noticed the effects on British workers, the reaction was to subsidise low pay, through tax credits, or  better, but not enough  increase it through minimum wages.

Regardless of the model of globalisation, there always remained choices for domestic policies. We can see this, for example, in how the breakdown between improvements in productivity and increases in pay have differed from country to country. In the US, it is longstanding and chronic. In Britain, more recent yet acute. In Denmark and Sweden, recent and mild.

A recent academic study showed that, contrary to popular perception, Britain and America have tax systems more progressive than in Europe  based on the difference between the taxes paid by the top decile to the bottom half of earners  and redistribute a greater proportion of national income to the bottom half. The reason Europe is less unequal than Britain and America is that wages themselves are more equal.

But wages are not the only way in which capitalism is in crisis. In Britain, everything seems to be in the red: we have a trade deficit, a budget deficit, and a house-building deficit. Personal debt stands at around 130 per cent of household income. The only surplus we seem to run is in net migration: millions have been added to our population in recent years, and 606,000 in the last year alone. Since the financial crash, we have had anaemic growth and stagnant pay. Stuck in a rut of low investment, poor productivity and low pay, we earn no more in real terms, on average, than we did in 2005.

Globalisation is part of the story, but so too is the quality of British economic policy. George Osborne used to describe himself as a strict fiscal conservative but a monetary policy radical. But while a fiscal correction was necessary after the financial crash, austerity went too far and for too long. According to Andy Haldane, former chief economist at the Bank of England, this ruptured growth and was self-defeating for debt.

Radical monetary policy poisoned the well, inflating asset prices, keeping zombie companies alive, discouraging bank lending to businesses and slowing the circulation of money through the economy. The government and the country became addicted to cheap credit, and left us exposed now the music has finally stopped. It was regressive, hurting households with less, helping those with more, and making it harder for young people to get on to the property ladder. And it caused an orgy of financial restructuring, through share buybacks and leveraged debt.

This is part of the shameful story of the water companies  regulated monopolies that have racked up 65 billion in debt, even as they paid executives multi-million pound remuneration packages and their foreign owners large dividends, all while failing to modernise our creaking infrastructure.

As with the energy companies, this is not just a symptom of monetary policy, but a failure of regulation  which encourages systematic over-reward for investors.

We know capitalism, untempered, can be rapacious: brilliant, innovative and wealth-creating, but also exploitative and careless about the externalities of doing business. Think for example of those tech firms that profit from and care little about the algorithms that send inappropriate content to children. Our economic pain is sometimes caused by a failure to regulate  but when we do regulate we often get it horribly wrong.

From the absurd complexity of the planning system to the failure of pension regulations that drives our savings away from British equities, we have built an economic model that rewards the wealthy not the many, the incumbent not the challenger, the bureaucrat not the entrepreneur, the rentier not the risk-taker, the financier not the maker and the old and not the young. We are serfs to debt, trapped by low pay and bloated assets.

Conservatives should accept that to criticise capitalism is not to succumb to socialism, but turning a blind eye to the failures and excesses of capitalism  especially the crony capitalism we have brought on ourselves  makes defeat to Left-wing parties more likely.

It is often said that those without capital will not support capitalism, but if what we have today is capitalism, it should be up to conservatives to change it  and not just defend the indefensible.

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Sixty-four years after the Cuban Revolution traded capitalism for communism, privately owned businesses, not run by the government, are flourishing. At least thats the line Cuba appears to be selling to the rest of the world. But is it real?

The Cuban government has announced it is encouraging private enterprise and inviting foreign investors to come make money. That spells capitalism to us. Its an enticing invitation: Cuba is virgin territory to tech bros, entrepreneurs and hedge funds.

But weve seen this before on the island. Its citizens are given a taste of economic autonomy, only to see it snuffed out again. Should we believe Cuba has turned an economic corner for good?

A recent, in-depth article by Miami Herald Cuba reporter Nora Gamez Torres, Capitalism makes a comeback in Cuba, documents the changes occurring:

Over the past two years, a new kind of revolution has been quietly taking place in Cuba: Private businesses, banished from the island by Fidel Castro more than 60 years ago, are making a strong comeback, employing more people than state enterprises, gaining trust from foreign creditors and helping put food on Cubans tables at a time of widespread scarcity.

According to the story, Alejandro Gil, Cubas economy minister, recently told the National Assembly that, The private sector is on track to buy over a billion dollars in goods by the end of the year  outpacing the government as the countrys largest importer.

On the streets, private grocery stores are taking the place of the empty-shelf government supermarkets, and all sorts of businesses are filling the space once monopolized by the state.

Fidel Castro might be turning in his grave. His hatred of capitalism and all things yanqui was palpable.

But Cuba is like the Matrix. There is one reality presented to the world vs. the day-to-day reality of Cubans, who face food and medicine shortages, and human rights violations, the one thing the Cuban government has consistently enforced for six decades.

After anti-government demonstrations on the island led by the San Ysidro Movement, Cuba has cracked down again on the people. But it also needs to present an illusion to the world that things are peachy on the island. So come on down with money.

Recently eased measures also are allowing relatives in Miami to send remittances to relatives and visitors to the island to bring in more goods in their luggage, which supplement the ration cards and long lines to get their weekly allotment of eggs, chicken and meat.

The economy continues to struggle after the pandemic, which took away tourism money. Cuban needs an influx of money. Enter the Chinese and the Russians.

The Editorial Board asked Latin America expert and Miami Herald columnist Andres Oppenheimer what he makes of the new arrival of capitalism in Cuba.

We need to introduce a little skepticism into these developments inside Cuba. Weve seen this movie before many times.

Oppenheimer is right. In fact, there are many stories from past decades in which Cuba hinted it was opening its doors to the outside world and the world economy. And the story usually ends with a sudden crackdown and confiscation of property and land, leaving foreign investors with huge losses, as they operate in conjunction with the Cuban government.

So we must ask: Is this real or a smoke screen from a cagey government that needs a new influx of money?

Its all about government control, and maintaining it. Without private enterprise, Cubans toil for the good of the country and the revolution, not for personal wealth.

There is always a common factor with talk of Cuba announcing that its opening up to the rest of the world, financially or otherwise.

Is what appears to be happening in Cuba now what President Barack Obama envisioned nearly a decade ago when he normalized relations with Cuba in 2014, hoping influences from the rest of the world would overwhelm the authoritarian Cuban government and force it to change? Little did change, however, and Cuba did not keep its end of the deal to ease up on human-rights abuses of its people, making few, if any, concessions. In fact, the photo of an awkward Obama and then-President Raul Castro with arms upraised tells the story of that failed, lopsided attempt at diplomacy.

This talk of capitalism also comes when Cuba is making a series of political moves, allowing the Chinese to open a spy station on the island, 90 miles away from Florida and inviting the Russians back in as business partners. Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel visited Pope Francis at the Vatican, where he was warmly greeted.

Cuba is definitely up to something. Just what likely will reveal itself soon enough. It always does.
Chicken made from animal cells in a lab was served at a Michelin-starred restaurant in San Francisco

Bar Crenn in San Francisco became the first restaurant in the US to offer chicken grown in a lab. Upside Foods

The first lab-grown chicken has been served in the US at Bar Crenn in San Francisco.

Upside Foods partnered with the Michelin-starred restaurant to serve the cultivated chicken.

Upside Foods and Just Meat recently received regulatory approval to sell lab-grown chicken.

Lab-grown chicken produced entirely from animal cells was served for the first time in the US at a San Francisco restaurant on Saturday.

Upside Foods and Good Meat both recently received approval from the Food and Drug Administration that deemed their cultivated chicken safe to eat, and approval from the US Department of Agriculture that meant their products could go on sale.

Winners of a social media contest were the first diners to try the cultivated chicken at Bar Crenn, the companies announced.

The chicken was fried in a tempura batter, and served with a burnt chili aioli and other greens and edible flowers  served in a black ceramic dish.

"It represents a giant leap towards a world where people no longer have to choose between the foods they love and a thriving planet," said Dr. Uma Valeti, CEO and founder of Upside. "I can't wait for more people to get their first bite  it's a magical moment that inspires an exciting world of new possibilities."

Upside Foods and Good Meat are among the many companies working to bring lab-grown, "slaughter-free" meat and other foods to market, with support from influential figures like Bill Gates.

They want to reduce the environmental impact of the meat industry and give another option to those who don't eat meat due to ethical concerns over the treatment and killing of animals.

While the lab-grown meat is not technically vegetarian or vegan because it is still made from cells of living animals, it could help address some ethical concerns.

Dominique Crenn, a Michelin-starred chef, stopped offering meat dishes at her restaurant several years ago over animal welfare concerns.

"It's the first time meat has made it back on my menu since 2018, because Upside chicken is the first meat that I feel good about serving," Crenn said. She called Upside a "significant step towards a more sustainable and compassionate food system."

The cultivated chicken has not yet made it on to Bar Crenn's regular menu, but will be a part of other monthly events this year, Upside and Crenn said.

Experts say it'll be some time before mass-production of lab-grown meat is possible.

Good Meat is also set to bring its cultivated chicken to customers this year at China Chilcano restaurant in Washington, DC, according to CNN.

Read the original article on Business Insider
Fifth night of riots after a teenager shot dead by police in Paris suburb

BEIJING (Reuters) - China's Consulate General in Marseille complained to France after a bus carrying a Chinese tour group in the southern city had its windows smashed leading to minor injuries, China's Consular Affairs Office said in a statement on Sunday.

The Consulate General's formal complaint called for France to ensure the safety of Chinese citizens and their property, the statement said.

The bus was attacked by rioters on Thursday, according to state broadcaster CCTV, during violence which hit French cities in recent days since the police shooting of a teenager of North African descent. The Chinese tourists have since left France, the Consular Office statement said.

Chinese citizens in France or heading to France should "strengthen prevention" and be "more vigilant and cautious" in light of the riots which have swept across the country in recent days, the Consular office statement added.

Rioting across France appeared to be less intense on Saturday, as tens of thousands of police had been deployed in cities across the country after the funeral of the teenager, although there was some tension in central Paris and sporadic clashes in Nice, Strasbourg and Marseille.

(Reporting by Ziyi Tang and Martin Quin Pollard; Editing by Muralikumar Anantharaman)
Former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie declined to say whether former President Donald Trumps reported 2020 call to Arizona Gov. Doug Ducey might be criminal, but maintained it was unacceptable."

Trump called the Republican governor and prodded him to overturn the presidential election results after he lost to Joe Biden by a narrow margin in the battleground state, the Washington Post reported.

We'll let the prosecutors decide whether it's criminal or not, Christie said Sunday on CNNs State of the Union.

"But is it acceptable? It's absolutely unacceptable, to be pressuring a governor or any elected official as it was with the secretary of state in Georgia, to try to find votes to be able to win a state that you didn't win or to try to somehow come up with some kind of ridiculous theory to overturn the results in Arizona, Christie added.

Trump is currently under multiple investigations for alleged attempts he and allies made to overturn the 2020 presidential election results. In Georgia, he could face an indictment after calling Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger and asking him to find enough votes to come out ahead of Biden in the state.

On Sunday, Christie said Trump lost the election in Arizona and other key state in 2020 because he had not done the job the American people elected him to do.
CIA Director William Burns - MANDEL NGAN/AFP

The US is seizing the opportunity of a weakened Vladimir Putin to recruit spies inside Russia, the head of the CIA has said.

William Burns, the CIA director, said shame inside Russia at Putins regime and its invasion of Ukraine had created a once in a generation opening.

Mr Burns made the comments while giving the annual lecture at the Ditchley Park Foundation in Oxfordshire, a global affairs think tank based at the country house that Winston Churchill used as a retreat during the Second World War.

In his speech, he said that the war in Ukraine had been a strategic failure for Russia and that Putin had turned Russia into a junior partner and colony of China.

Disaffection with the war will continue to gnaw away at the Russian leadership, he said of the spying opportunities that had been created.

We are not going to let it go to waste.

Europe has cut diplomatic and economic ties with Russia since Putin ordered his full-scale invasion in February last year, forcing the Kremlin to become reliant on Iran for missile and drone supplies, as well as China for gas sales.

In March, Chinese leader Xi Jinping flew to Moscow and promised to back Putin in Ukraine, a move that analysts said showed his determination to challenge the US-led world order.

Mr Burns said that although the immediate danger was from Russia and Putin, the long-term threat to global stability came from China.

China is the only country with both the intent to reshape the international order and, increasingly, the economic, diplomatic, military and technological power to do so, he said.

Last week, just before a rebellion by the Wagner mercenary group in Russia, Mr Burns travelled to Kyiv to meet with top Ukrainian officials to reassure them of Joe Bidens support, despite some criticism over the slow pace of their counteroffensive.

He described the failed Wagner rebellion as a Russian internal affair, but also said that criticism of the Russian military by Yevgeny Prigozhin, the mercenary leader, would play out for some time.

Commentators have said that the US and British intelligence services have restored their reputations, which had been damaged by failings in the run-up to the Iraq war in 2003, by correctly predicting Putins attack.

Still a dangerous man

Mr Burns also said that occasionally declassifying secrets during the war, and leaking them to the media, had wrongfooted Putin.

This has denied Putin the false narratives that I have watched him so often invent in the past, putting him in the uncomfortable and unaccustomed position of being on the back foot, he said.

But despite his humiliation in Ukraine and domestic policy failures in Russia, Mr Burns said that Putin was still a dangerous man who harbours great grievances, ambitions and insecurities.

The one thing I have learnt is that it is a mistake to underestimate Putins fixation about controlling Ukraine and its choices, he said.

Mr Burns, a former US ambassador to Russia who has been head of the CIA since March 2021, added that a recruitment campaign had been succesfully deployed on social media.

We recently used social media, our first video post on Telegram in fact, to let brave Russians know how to contact us safely through the Dark Web, he said during the lecture.

We had 2.5 million views in the first week and we are very much open for business.

Telegram is by far the most popular Russian-language messaging and news app.

It is also considered to be a far freer place for Russians to exchange information than the countrys internet, which the Kremlin tightly controls.

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How 'climate lockdowns' became the new battleground for conspiracy-driven protest movement

LONDON  According to committed conspiracy theorist and climate change skeptic Linda Skinner, the Covid-19 pandemic was just the start of the global elites effort to oppress the world.

Whats the shadowy cabals next goal? Take away your car, the Londoner said.

While there is no evidence such a plan exists, Skinner is part of a growing group that evolved out of anti-vaccine protests and has energized a campaign against environmental measures across Britain and elsewhere. Many of these fears are generalized into opposition to 15-minute cities, an urban planning idea designed to reduce traffic and increase walking and cycling that has become an obsession of the post-pandemic protest movement.

This is only the beginning, said Skinner, 64, who works at a jewelers and believes Covid was developed and released by a shadowy and powerful group as a trial to see how compliant people would be.

The April demonstration was a protest against Mayor Sadiq Khans plan to charge people if they drove older, more polluting cars anywhere in the Greater London area.

Drivers already have to pay 12.50 ($15.50) to drive high-polluting vehicles, typically older diesel cars, in central boroughs, and beginning in August this will apply to all of Greater London, a huge geographic area.

It isnt only about cars.

For a generation of anti-government protesters radicalized by their opposition to pandemic lockdowns, the latest protest movement is about what they claim are powerful global elites' efforts to control, divide and even dramatically reduce the worlds population.

These unfounded ideas are spilling over into the wider society.

Protest against ULEZ Zone extension and Low Traffic Neighbourhoods (Martin Pope / Getty Images)

Almost a third of people who took part in a recent poll by Kings College London and the BBC said it was either definitely or probably true that 15-minute city plans are a government attempt to surveil people and restrict freedoms.

Experts increasingly see Covid and the resulting lockdowns, vaccines and restrictions as a watershed moment for conspiracy-driven anti-authority activists.

If you look at the individuals that are complaining, spreading misinformation and legitimizing conspiracy theories about 15-minute cities, theyre often the exact same cohort of individuals that spread misinformation about Covid and often its the same language, Tim Caulfield, an expert in misinformation at Alberta University in Canada, said.

While these conspiracy theories become commonplace  whether being repeated by Fox News pundits, Dutch farmers, British lawmakers or Austrian nationalists  Caulfield warns that they are still extreme and outlandish.

One of the remarkable things is the normalization of hardcore conspiracy theories. This isnt like conspiracy theory-light, its a hardcore conspiracy theory, he said.

As the world grapples with rising temperatures and climate migration, more and more groups suspicious of the governments motives will resist ecological measures and how they affect their lives, he warned.

'Tyrannical control'

In November, Duncan Enright, head of transport at Oxfordshire County Council, which covers an affluent and mostly rural part of southern England, suggested a pilot scheme to reduce traffic on six congested roads running across the city of Oxford. The traffic filter plans spearheaded by Enright were aimed at encouraging drivers to use the ring road to get around the city rather than cut across it.

Weeks later, Enright said he was receiving death threats, mostly through social media but also in emails and telephone calls  a target of activists who say green measures are nothing more than an instrument of a malign state and its secret backers. Enright was accused of answering to a cabal of globalist elites to subjugate the population and trap it in its neighborhoods.

People turned up to a couple of our meetings and were talking about things which were nothing to do with this at all  describing why climate change didnt exist. Very odd and quite alarming.

The language used by some opposed to 15-minute cities can be extreme and even violent.

Nigel Farage, the far-right populist and former leader of the Brexit Party who unsuccessfully ran for Parliament seven times, said on Twitter last week: Mark my words, this isnt going to end with 20 mph zones and low traffic neighborhoods, no no, this is the beginning of climate lockdowns.

BRITAIN-POLITICS-REFORM UK (Daniel Leal / AFP via Getty Images)

At a protest in Oxford on Feb. 18, one placard said THE 15-MINUTE WEF GHETTOS ARE NOT ABOUT CLIMATE. ITS ABOUT TYRANICAL CONTROL. Others went further and said the plan was comparable to Nazi concentration camps and the Warsaw Ghetto, which at its height 80 years ago housed 460,000 Polish Jews.

A couple of people in my local town were making fun of me saying, you know, Wheres your security detail? So its not at all a local thing, its using things that Ive never really heard of. Ive only really come across the World Economic Forum on the telly, Enright said.

The traffic filter pilot was approved in October and there are no plans to halt the scheme.

A pyramid of priorities

The inventor of the 15-minute city concept has become a hate figure for those who rail against urban change in the name of environmentalism.

Its amazing to switch from being a researcher at a university to being a public enemy of the global movement of conspiracy theorists, said Carlos Moreno, an associate professor at the IAE Paris Sorbonne Business School in Paris.

It is the same people who are climate deniers, who thought Covid-19 was a biological weapon, [that] the vaccine was a way to introduce 5G into the body of people  they are manipulating the 15-minute concept [into] an open-air jail, he told NBC News.

Around 2016, Moreno developed the idea that communities should be structured around people  not cars  and that everything someone might need during the day  from shops to schools, workplaces to doctors surgeries  should be within a 15-minute drive or cycle.

Modern cities have, he argues, given up far too much space to motorists.

Originally from Colombia, Morenos concept has been embraced by cities all over the world, including his adopted city of Paris, where Mayor Anne Hidalgo made reworking local areas to give priority to cyclists and pedestrians a pledge in her successful electoral campaign last year.

Rental e-scooter scooters t be banned to ensure Road safety in Paris, France - 7 Apr 2023 (Hesther Ng / Sipa USA via AP)

Moreno suggests a pyramid of priorities that put pedestrians in first place, followed by bicycles, public transport, electric cars full of passengers, taxis and regular private cars  in that order.

No one is saying we need to control people, in fact its the opposite: This is a humanistic concept to allow more local services, more open spaces, more social interactions, a better local economy. This is not arduous, he said.

Jonathan Tilt is a prominent anti-lockdown campaigner from West Yorkshire in northern England. Like so many, his political awakening was the pandemic, which he believes is connected to a concerted global effort to control and eventually depopulate the world.

It will be sort of Soviet-style housing estates where you have to apply for permits to leave your house if youre deemed as being essential in some way or other, he said.

But crucially, whereas campaigning against Covid lockdowns was difficult during a time of national emergency, convincing people that the government wants to take away their cars is a much easier sell.

His group, Vote Freedom, said it supported more than 300 candidates at the local council elections across England on May 4, all of whom campaigned against 15-minute cities.

Having stood [for election] campaigning against vaccines, campaigning on 15-minute cities is like a gift. This was like Christmas coming almost, he said.

This article was originally published on NBCNews.com
Yevgeny Prigozhin, head of the Wagner Group, leaves the Southern Military District headquarters in Rostov-on-Don, Russia, on June 24. (Anadolu Agency via Getty Images)

A little more than a week ago, Russian President Vladimir Putins hold on power appeared to be disintegrating. Rebel mercenaries were advancing on Moscow against little or no resistance. Wealthy Muscovites scrambled for tickets out of the country. A coup detat attempt seemed imminent.

And then, a perplexing reversal. After denouncing the mutiny as treason, Putin agreed to allow its leader, Yevgeny Prigozhin, to take exile in neighboring Belarus. Prigozhin, presumably realizing his mercenaries couldnt conquer Moscow without help from regular army units, submitted.

Putin, once seen as an all-powerful autocrat, seemed to have suffered a humiliating blow to his authority.

But dont count Putin out  not yet, anyway.

Thats what a growing number of Russia experts said last week as the dust settled and a modicum of perspective set in.

Putin faces a lot of problems, to be sure, said Stephen Sestanovich, a professor of international diplomacy at Columbia University. But it looks as if hes still got most of the assets he needs to address them.

People would like to find new evidence that Putin is vulnerable, but it may be overstated, warned Andrew S. Weiss of the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace. The power of wishful thinking.

Read more: Supreme Court's conservatives are solidly in control, but not quite as predictable as last year

These Russia scholars arent defending Putin, the brutality of his regime or his catastrophic decision to invade Ukraine.

Theres no better argument for term limits than Vladimir Putin, Sestanovich said.

Theyre merely noting that he has survived tough challenges before, and that after 23 years in power, hes unlikely to collapse without a fight.

Much of what happened in the bizarre standoff with Prigozhin remains murky. The boss of the Wagner Group, a so-called private military company, was rebelling against Putins order that he subject his mercenaries to the command of the regular armed forces.

The Wall Street Journal has reported that Prigozhin intended to kidnap the Russian defense minister and army chief of staff to press his case. Prigozhin may also have expected other military officers to rally to his side; when that didnt happen, he recognized his cause was lost.

The deeper mystery is why Putins intelligence services apparently didnt warn him of the plot and why other military units failed to block the mercenaries' march on Moscow.

Read more: Column: Blinken tried to build a floor under U.S.-China relations. He may have to keep doing it

By the time Prigozhins men were within 125 miles of the capital, Putin was staring down the barrel of a gun, Sestanovich said. He had an overriding goal, which was to avoid shooting in the streets of Moscow. That would have been vivid proof that he had failed.

Putins brand is stability, Sestanovich explained. What he needs above all is to convey normalcy  [and] a sense that he is back in charge.

Once the outcome was clear, officials in Moscow rushed to declare loyalty to Putin. Russias military and intelligence services launched investigations to determine what went wrong. Gen. Sergei Surovikin, the air force commander who is close to Prigozhin, is reportedly being interrogated.

Meanwhile, Putin has launched a charm offensive, staging a sudden flurry of public appearances after three years of seclusion during the COVID-19 pandemic. His propaganda machine is downplaying the mutiny.

Its even possible, Sestanovich said, that the mutiny has shocked Putin into recognizing that he had lost touch with his countrys politics.

This has been a kind of wake-up heart attack for him, Sestanovich suggested. He needs to make everybody feel that theyre still benefiting from his regime  a pretty tough challenge.

Meanwhile, his war against Ukraine has continued unabated. The high-level turmoil in Moscow had no discernible effect on the battlefields to the south. Russian units continued to defend the Ukrainian territory they have occupied behind a fearsome system of minefields and tank traps called the Surovikin line  ironically, it was built by the general under interrogation. No units were reported to have deserted or defected.

If anything, the episode appeared likely to secure the jobs of Prigozhins main targets, Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu and army chief of staff Gen. Valery Gerasimov, even though both have been widely criticized as incompetent.

Another sign of normalcy, Putin-style: The Wagner organizations recruiting office in Moscow, which closed briefly during the mutiny, reopened and told callers it was accepting new applicants, according to the BBC and Russian media outlets.

That suggests that Putin has decided not to disband Wagner, which has not only been more brutal on the battlefield than the regular army, but also more successful at attracting recruits, partly because it pays higher wages.

If Wagner were to disappear, Putins war machine could lose as many as 15,000 of its most experienced fighters.

Some Western officials have expressed impatience that Ukraines offensive isnt moving faster. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has acknowledged that progress has been slower than desired.

But Ukrainian officers have noted that finding weak spots in Russian defenses will take time, and that the fighting season runs until November.

Theres not much the United States and its allies can do to affect Putins fate in Moscow  except, perhaps, stay out of the way.

But they can keep military and economic aid flowing to Ukraine to increase its chances of success.

Putin isnt likely to fall anytime soon, but hes still more vulnerable than he was before the mutiny. This is no time to give him any breathing room.

Get the best of the Los Angeles Times politics coverage with the Essential Politics newsletter.

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
Column: Think our politics stink? Look north  to Alaska

Alaska's ranked-choice voting boosted Democrat Mary Peltola, left, into the U.S. House and benefited moderate Republican Sen. Lisa Murkowski, center, in her latest reelection bid. Former GOP Gov. Sarah Palin lost to Peltola under the system, which is aimed at weeding out political extremists. (Amanda Andrade-Rhoades / Associated Press; J. Scott Applewhite / Associated Press; Justin Sullivan / Getty Images)

Last year, Alaska tried something unique.

It became the first state to use an election system that placed all candidates on the same ballot, with the four top vote-getters, regardless of party, moving to a runoff where voters ranked their preferences.

(Go ahead, impress friends at your holiday barbecue by using the technical terms, blanket ballot and ranked-choice voting.)

One purpose of the system, approved by voters in 2020, was to weed out extremists by making it harder for candidates to be elected simply by appealing to the hard-liners of their party's base.

It worked splendidly.

Sen. Lisa Murkowski, a relatively moderate mainstream Republican, won reelection in November by defeating a MAGA fundamentalist trying to avenge Murkowski's vote punishing President Trump for the Jan. 6 insurrection.

The state's sole House seat was captured by Mary Peltola, a relatively moderate mainstream Democrat, who thwarted a comeback bid by the far-right pugilist Sarah Palin.

Alaska is a place apart, both physically and in the minds of its many freethinking residents. The state  the second to last to join the union, followed by Hawaii  is both conscious and proud of its separateness, embodied by the way many there refer to the rest of the country at arm's length, as "Outside."

So it seems improbable, given that distance, that Alaska offers a model  or, at least a step forward  for dealing with the polarization wracking the country and turning our politics into a constant spectacle of partisan eye-gouging and face-clawing.

But that looks to be the case.

Read more: Column: Kari Lake is a deceitful fraud. Now she'll have to defend her lies in court

Here's how ranked-choice balloting works:

In a typical election, the candidate with the most votes wins. Under the ranked-choice system, if no candidate receives a majority of first-choice votes, a new round of tabulation begins. The candidate with the poorest showing is eliminated and those votes are awarded to their supporters second pick. The process continues until someone receives a majority.

The notion is that by competing en masse not just to finish first but also to be voters' second choice, successful candidates will have to appeal to a broader segment of the electorate.

As experts recently explained in the Anchorage Daily News, "Encouraging politicians to take more extreme views ... [makes] our legislatures increasingly dysfunctional. Instead of meeting in the middle to find solutions both sides can live with, they drive legislators further apart and make it harder to agree."

The most recent session of the Alaska Legislature proved instructive.

There was less reflexive partisanship and more cooperation across party lines, those experts said, attributing the change to the state's revamped voting system. They cited the budget lawmakers passed and, in particular, the agreed-upon disbursements from the state's Permanent Fund, an account that pays residents annual dividends from Alaska's oil wealth.

Writing in the Anchorage paper, political scientists Glenn Wright, David Lublin and Benjamin Reilly noted the dividend was smaller than many Republicans would have liked, but that left more money for education and programs that others preferred.

"A classic political compromise," they called it, suggesting that "rather than spending their time bashing the other party," lawmakers chosen under the new system reached across the aisle and bargained to reach a consensus.

Which, ideally, is how legislating works.

Naturally, ranked-choice voting has become a source of political contention. (These days what isn't?)

Much of the criticism is coming from the right, where opponents aggrieved by Palin's loss and Murkowski's victory have lumped the issue with such culture-war standbys as critical race theory and gender identification, as well as the fear of supposedly rigged elections.

They keep preaching that a man can get pregnant until we believe it," Art Mathias, an Anchorage church leader who is heading a drive to repeal ranked-choice voting, said at a rally kicking off the signature-gathering effort. "We got to get engaged, or its gonna get worse."

But the fight over ranked-choice voting doesn't cleave neatly along partisan lines.

Several cities in deep-red Utah allow it. Virginia Republicans used the system to chose their gubernatorial nominee in 2021, boosting Glenn Youngkin over a Trumpy alternative and helping the GOP claim the governor's office for the first time in a dozen years.

Still, it's not hard to discern a red-blue divide.

Read more: Column: For Adam Schiff, censure is a gift from House Republicans

GOP lawmakers in Idaho, Montana and South Dakota this year passed legislation to prevent ranked-choice voting, joining Tennessee and Florida, which approved bans in 2022.

Democrats have tended to look upon the system with greater favor. In Oregon, lawmakers put a measure on the November 2024 ballot asking voters whether ranked-choice voting should be implemented for state and congressional elections.

Nevada voters will also take up the question again next year, after ranked-choice voting was approved last November. (The move would amend the state constitution, so it requires passage a second time.)

Despite claims the system is stacked against conservatives, blanket ballots and ranked voting don't automatically favor one party over the other. It doesn't even stop strongly ideological candidates from winning, so long as they gain majority support.

Alaska's conservative Republican governor, Mike Dunleavy, was reelected in November, the political scientists noted, and Rep. David Eastman, a member of the extremist Oath Keepers, was returned to the state Legislature.

Alaska is just one state  and an idiosyncratic one at that.

But the effort to promote consensus and elevate a less performative, more problem-solving approach to politics sets a good example.

More places should try it.

Get the best of the Los Angeles Times politics coverage with the Essential Politics newsletter.

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
Empty office room. FangXiaNuo/Getty Images.

The smartest insight and analysis, from all perspectives, rounded up from around the web:

Stop me if you've heard this before, but "businesses are ready to get serious" about getting workers back to their desks, said Emma Goldberg in The New York Times. Actually, more than serious: They're desperate. After "three years of scattershot plans for returning to in-person work," a wave of big companies  including Disney, Amazon, AT&T, and Meta  recently announced firm intentions (for real this time) to call workers back in. Employers have largely accepted "that hybrid work is a permanent reality, with just over a quarter of full workdays in the country now done at home." But business leaders also say that the work-from-home experiment has made them "feel emphatically that they need some in-person time." Salesforce  which in 2021 had declared the 9-to-5 workday "dead"announced last month that "it will give a $10 charitable donation per day" for 10 days on behalf of in-office employees. Google is trying the opposite tack, announcing that it will begin tracking badge swipes and punishing workers on performance reviews for unexplained office absences.

Work-from-home proponents note the 13% productivity bump early in the pandemic, when offices were closed, said Allison Schrager in City Journal. But that's not sustainable. "Innovation and problem-solving" rely on spontaneous collaboration. "In-person workers also provide valuable services like mentoring, training and advocating for younger colleagues," who get less feedback when they're working from home. Businesspeople say this creates habits of laziness, said Samantha Delouya for CNN. Take it from the still hardworking 81-year-old Martha Stewart. All of France, she reminds us, is "off for August." Look at their level of success. "That," Stewart reminds us, "is not a very thriving country."

That's just another example of the "false belief that the office is the secret sauce to productivity," said Gleb Tsipursky in Fortune. Since when do you get more work done in the office? As anyone who has ever worked next to a chatty colleague knows, desk jobs can be more like "a productivity black hole" where "focused work gets sucked into oblivion." Forcing workers back into the office is even worse for productivity. A recent Gallup study "found that workers who could work remotely but are mandated to go to the office" have the lowest engagement of anyone. Certainly, if you want your company to have mentoring and training opportunities, you should create mentoring programs. But mentoring won't "magically happen" by just "packing employees into an office like sardines."

The shift to remote work was inevitable, said Dror Poleg in The Atlantic. "Once the quality of online collaboration crossed a crucial threshold, the internet itself" was going to become "the premier facilitator of human interaction." And once white-collar workers could earn a nice living anywhere, cities were going to be in trouble. Only the speed with which this has happened was unpredictable. We're on the threshold of a major urban crisis, with offices at half occupancy and $1.5 trillion in commercial loans coming due. We need to rethink what cities are about, not try to push white-collar workers back in into "boxes of glass and steel."

This article was first published in the latest issue of The Week magazine. If you want to read more like it, you can try six risk-free issues of the magazine here.

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If you have ever watched a video about how coffee is made, you know that the beans are separated from the pulpy fruit, and those beans are used to make coffee. But what happens to the fruit? Typically, it is simply  and wastefully  discarded.

Thats where a new company called Up To Good comes in. Up To Good has set out to take the once-discarded coffee fruit, called cascara, and use it to make an energy drink.

Cascara contains caffeine (around half as much as the beans, according to Inhabitat) as well as antioxidants. However, Up To Good has worked its formula so that one can of its new energy drink is an energy boost equivalent to one cup of coffee.

The company has partnered with small coffee farms in Latin America to buy their cascara and claims that the farms it has chosen are sustainably run, with attention to water conservation, Inhabitat reported.

By saving the cascara from the discard pile, Up To Good explains that it is fighting waste and pollution on multiple fronts.

In traditional coffee farming the beans are harvested for roasting, but the surrounding coffee fruit is discarded once it is separated from the beans, Up To Good says on its website. That means billions of pounds are wasted globally every year! This not only contributes to food waste, but negatively impacts the environment by allowing mountains of coffee fruit to decay in landfills and potentially poison water sources.

The taste of cascara is not equivalent to the taste of coffee. A writer for Inhabitat reviewed the product and attempted to describe it, concluding, The closest beverage I can compare it to is unsweetened, flavored iced tea  with bubbles. [I] would say cascara has a fruity and slightly sweet taste with notes of dried fruit, cherry, and raisin.

Join our free newsletter for easy tips to save more, waste less, and help yourself while helping the planet.
What is the cost of racism? More lawmakers are embracing reparations for Black people

As President Joe Biden and Congress have failed to deliver on promises of police accountability and amid a conservative-led backlash against diversity, equity and inclusion policies, many Black Americans are uplifting a centuries-old debate around reparations for slavery as the clearest pathway to racial equality.

Ahead of the July Fourth holiday, more than 45% of Americans said racism is a big problem or the biggest problem facing the United States, according to a new USA TODAY/Suffolk University poll. About 38% of respondents said racism is a problem but not one of the biggest facing the nation. Only about 14% of Americans said racism is not a problem.

The poll comes during what many see as a racial crossroads for the country, spotlighted by the U.S. Supreme Court ruling Thursday that banned affirmative action in college admissions.

"There's almost a cold war in America over the future of the country, and central to that debate is the issue of race and ethnicity, not only Black people but all nonwhite peoples," Marc Morial, president and chief executive officer of the National Urban League, told USA TODAY.

Ryan P. Haygood, president and CEO of the New Jersey Institute for Social Justice, speaks at the 2021 Junteenth rally for reparations in Newark.

Morial said the USA TODAY polling data represents a tension in a country whose face is rapidly changing and was exemplified by an electorate that swung from Barack Obama's historic election in 2008 to elevating Donald Trump eight years later.

Black Americans' views differ greatly from those of whites, Hispanics

Race has already been tossed around in the early stages of the 2024 presidential campaign as Republicans Nikki Haley and Tim Scott, both of South Carolina, have trotted out their ethnic heritage as examples of how far the country has come.

"When I hear people telling me that America is a racist nation, I've got to say  not my America, not our America, not the United States of America," Scott, the lone Black Republican in the Senate, said at a Fox News town hall in June.

My grandfather believed what some like President Obama doubt now.



He believed in the goodness of America.



You can be bitter, or you can be better, but you cant be both. pic.twitter.com/eySTM4dtna  Tim Scott (@votetimscott) June 26, 2023

But whats clear is that as the United States becomes more diverse, how Americans rank racism as an issue is largely determined by their heritage.

An overwhelming 79% of Black Americans said racism is either the biggest problem or a problem in the United States, according to the USA TODAY/Suffolk University survey. That far exceeded the 39% of whites and 46% of Hispanics who said the same.

On the flip side, 17% of whites said racism isn't a problem, joined by 13% of Hispanics.

July 4: What is the state of American democracy? As July Fourth nears, poll shows voters are worried

More: Are shootings really 'out of control'? US gun violence statistics to know

Astoundingly, the pollster said, not a single Black respondent said racism was not a problem in the survey.

Usually you get someone, somewhere in a demographic group to either be not sure or say not one of the categories," said David Paleologos, director of the Suffolk University Political Research Center in Boston.

"No Black voters are undecided, and no Black voters said not a problem," he said. "So this issue is really a black and white issue."

Why do many Black people want reparations?

Our #ReparationsNow Resolution would advance reparatory justice for Tulsa and Black people nationwide. pic.twitter.com/gv055kchRy  Congresswoman Cori Bush (@RepCori) June 2, 2023

Polling shows reparations for slavery is just as divisive as other issues along lines of race, but in recent years the subject has been injected with new vigor from activists exhausted with being ping-ponged between protest and vote strategies.

Pia Harris, a Black activist and program director for the San Francisco Housing Development Corp., said reparations are necessary to compensate for the lack of progress made in housing discrimination and other areas.

Were just trying to be brought to the same point as everyone else. We really are at a disadvantage and not at a starting line, she said.

Cities such as Evanston, Illinois, are making reparations through a housing restorative program or a direct cash option to qualified Black residents. There is also Californias first-in-the-nation reparations task force seeking legislation, and in New York, state lawmakers recently passed a bill to consider reparations.

The conversation is front and center now, said Kamm Howard, executive director of Reparations United, a Chicago-based organization.

Kids dance on 16th Street Northwest renamed Black Lives Matter Plaza near the White House in Washington, Friday, June 19, 2020, to mark Juneteenth. The holiday celebrates the day in 1865 that enslaved Black people in Galveston, Texas, learned they had been freed from bondage, more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation.

The national discourse on reparations is "a consequence of renewed energy to see a 157-year-old justice claim and unpaid debt finally met," said William Darity, a Duke University economist who co-wrote the 2020 book "From Here to Equality: Reparations for Black Americans in the Twenty-First Century."

"I dont think there is any greater degree of frustration today than there was 30 years ago, but there was not the same level of activity around reparations at that time," Darity told USA TODAY.

He said the federal government should pay at least $14 trillion in reparations to Black Americans "to equalize the average level of wealth between Black and white Americans."

'Black America is watching' Californias reparations plan

Supporters for reparations also point out the trajectory of opinion among whites has improved over the past two decades.

At the start of the century, a University of Chicago study examining attitudes toward reparations found only 4% of white Americans endorsed the idea. But a 2023 survey by University of Massachusetts at Amherst researchers places the level of white support closer to 30%, including 57% of Americans who are 18 to 29 years old.

"This is a dramatic change in white attitudes, signaling an opportunity to build the social movement that will pressure Congress to legislate a comprehensive plan for reparations for Black Americans who had ancestors enslaved in the United States," Darity said.

Advocates want Biden to create a federal reparations commission through an executive order. Howard said no action at all could cost the president his reelection given how crucial Black voters were to Biden's victory in 2020.

In California, activists such as Cheryl Grills, a clinical psychologist and member of Californias Reparations Task Force, said Black Americans should be paid for the ongoing legacy of harm left by slavery.

"Those include eminent domain, redlining, the quality of schools and trying to get employment," Grills said.

California Assembly member and fellow task force member Reginald Sawyer-Jones said Black America is watching what transpires: "As so goes California, so goes the nation."

The nine-member task force approved 100 recommendations that economists suggested could add up to as much as $1.2 million per eligible Black resident. On Thursday, the task force submitted a 1,100-page report for state lawmakers to consider.

In this June 24, 2020, file photo, Tyshawn, 9, left, and his brother Tyler, 11, right, of Baltimore, hold signs saying "Black Lives Matter" and "I Can't Breathe" as they sit on a concrete barrier near a police line as demonstrators protest along a section of 16th Street that has been renamed Black Lives Matter Plaza in Washington.

The report recommended cash payments, providing policies for opportunities and free college tuition as examples. But the report doesn't issue a specific dollar amount owed to residents, and the state Legislature won't discuss any reparations-related bills until 2024.

State Sen. Steven Bradford, a task force member, said any reparations cost will be high, but harm to Black Californians has been "just as high."

State Attorney General Rob Bonta also urged legislators to proceed with reparations. "They are necessary. They are warranted. They are needed," he said. "It's time for remedying."

Contributing: Marc Ramirez and Kayla Jimenez

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Is racism a big problem? Black and white Americans don't agree
PALM BAY  They were found living out of a Palm Bay hotel, loaded with more than $30,000 in fake cash after traveling the state ringing up purchases at businesses from the Space Coast to Jacksonville, federal prosecutors say.

Couple with counterfeit arrested in Palm Bay, federal prosecutors report.

Now 41-year-old Lyndsey Markland, one of two people who federal investigators said used fake currency to splurge on everything from rotisserie chicken to restaurant gift cards, faces up to 20 years in federal prison after pleading guilty to multiple counterfeiting-related charges.

Markland told authorities she and her companion Neal Pollman, 42, rode through several counties using counterfeit $100 bills  one of the most commonly counterfeited bills  to buy food and other items. The Panama City couple were arrested by Palm Bay Police in November 2022 but had already been subject to a federal grand jury indictment that October, court records show.

Pollman pleaded guilty to charges involving counterfeiting in June in a related case but will go on trial for additional charges later this month. The multi-jurisdictional case was investigated by the U.S. Secret Service  which handles investigations involving counterfeit U.S. currency  Palm Bay Police, the Brevard County Sheriff's Office and other agencies.

The U.S. Attorneys Office is pursuing prosecution.

More: DeSantis signs death warrant for Brevard man convicted of killing Melbourne nurse in 1988

The two were arrested in Palm Bay last November after a wave of reports that Markland and Pollman used the look-alike cash to buy hundreds of dollars worth of goods and gift cards in Brevard, Clay, Duval and Seminole counties.

The couple was tracked down to a Comfort Inn hotel by Palm Bay Police, who booked Markland and Pollman on state charges of possession of forged bills, uttering forged documents, theft and racketeering, court records show.

Pollman is set to go to trial on additional federal charges of counterfeiting and passing counterfeit federal reserve notes later this month. Police carried out a search warrant and found more than $30,000 in phony cash in the hotel room the couple shared, reports show. Police also found a computer printer that was used to copy the counterfeit money, federal prosecutors said.

The Palm Bay case unfolded after Pollman attempted to use a fake $20 bill to buy merchandise from a Walgreens pharmacy on Malabar Road along with other businesses, police reports show. Pollman was handed change after the purchases using the bad currency. The cashier in the Walgreen's case used a special pen to determine that the bill was counterfeit and then called police after Pollman left.

Police were alerted again Nov. 19 after Winn-Dixie store managers said a couple used counterfeit cash to purchase $270 worth of merchandise, netting a return of $29 in change, reports show. The couple returned again Nov. 21, then bought a combined $500 worth of goods using the fake cash, reports show. At least two other businesses in Palm Bay also were targeted, reports show.

The couple was also charged with violating their state probation. The two were remanded into federal custody April 27 after a court hearing, the U.S. Attorneys office reported. A sentencing hearing for Markland has not yet been set.

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: Couple arrested in Palm Bay on fake cash counts, face federal charges
Matthew Graham owes his new career path to his fraternity brothers and Thurgood Marshall, the late Supreme Court justice.

Marshall, also a member of the Black fraternity Alpha Phi Alpha, was a civil rights leader who became the first Black justice on the Supreme Court. Marshalls story convinced Graham he, too, could become a lawyer.

But Marshalls success was not the only reason Graham stayed in law school. It was also the fact he saw so few law students who looked like him.

Representation matters to me. I want to be an example to my children, my family, and the African American community, Graham told CNN.

Graham, 29, from Baltimore, Maryland, worked hard the past three and a half years to join a profession in which only 5% are Black, according to a 2022 report by the American Bar Association.

Ciara Graham, 29, Celine Graham, 11 months, and Matthew Graham, 29. - Genise Thomas

He passed Marylands bar exam on his first attempt with a high score of 309. Graham has received an outpouring of support from friends and strangers who watched a TikTok video capturing the moment in April when he received the news.

When I saw congratulations, and I knew I passed it was just awesome. The viral video has just been added fun and getting messages from people saying Ive inspired them has been the cherry on top, Graham said.

Grahams score placed him above 94% of the test takers. In most states you would have to get at least a 260 score on the bar exam to pass. This year the minimum passing score for the Maryland bar exam is 266, according to the National Conference of Bar Examiners. The pass rate for Maryland was 36% for the exam taken in February of this year.

Grahams score means he can practice law not only in Maryland but in any district recognizing his results.

Fewer Black attorneys are entering the profession

The majority of US lawyers, at 81%, are White, followed by 5.8% who are Hispanic and 5.5% who are of Asian descent, the American Bar Association reports.

The number of Black attorneys remains low in part due to the cost of law school, expensive test prep courses for the LSAT and the bar exam, as well as the amount of personal responsibilities Black students have, diversity advocates told CNN.

Verna Williams, CEO of the Washington DC-based non-profit Equal Justice Works, said the share of Black lawyers has been steadily low for the past decade. Its a shame, Williams said, and law schools as well as the American Bar Association should work on paving a way for students of color.

Williams works to fund fellowships placing young lawyers in public interest organizations.

Students of color, particularly Black students, are typically relegated to schools that are under-resourced and they dont get the type of educational opportunities that are afforded to their White counterparts, Williams said.

Black students often attend public schools for their K-12 education, which can affect whether they are seen as good candidate for law school, Williams added.

Students must overcome financial woes and family duties

Not only are student loan debt and the cost of prep classes a barrier for Black students wanting to study law, but so is transitional kindergarten, where kids who are not ready for kindergarten go to get ready for kindergarten.

Black children are more likely to live in areas where the public schools they attend have fewer resources along and teachers who are less qualified.

Angela Winfield, chief diversity officer at The Law School Admission Council, a non-profit committed to promoting equal access to law education, said she is trying to narrow the gap in test performance and law school acceptance for people of color by offering free prep tests online.

Students have to pay hundreds of dollars in tests. The LSAT costs more than $200 and the bar exam is close to $1,000. If students choose to enroll in test prep classes, the full package will cost at least $3,000, according to The Princeton Review, which provides a number of services including tutoring and prep tests.

When Winfield was studying for the bar exam, she says she did it by herself and used free resources, including practice tests.

My parents werent economically under-resourced, but they werent going to pay $3,000 worth of test preps, Winfield said.

The non-profit also offers programs to introduce undergraduate and high school students to law school and other legal career opportunities. Winfield says her group has learned many students do not seek a law school because they never thought about it.

They did not realize this path was for them or that they could do it, Winfield said.

Erika George, a professor at the University of Utahs S.J. Quinney College of Law, said in addition to lack of funds, students of color often juggle many responsibilities, including taking care of their family.

Particularly during Covid-19 I have to say, a lot of my students of color had more family responsibilities or responsibilities for extended families in diverse ways. They also have lost family members. All this impacts how well you are doing in law school, George said.

Those responsibilities can lead to less time to prepare for the bar exam, which is extremely important because the bar exam decides how well you are prepared for the exam and not how well you know the law, George said.

Graham on the journey

Ciara, Celine and Matthew at his law school commencement on May 17, 2023. - Genise Thomas

Graham said he worked hard to balance a full-time job as a paralegal and law clerk, while being a new father, to attend night classes at the University of Baltimore School of Law because he was determined to make becoming a lawyer a reality.

Becoming a lawyer was not always in his plans. Graham said he was pursuing a chemistry degree and was on track to be a pharmacist when his fraternity brothers suggested a career change after he won an oratory competition in college.

Early on in my undergraduate career, I was a pharmacy technician and was on that route, but I felt restricted behind the pharmacy counter, and I have always loved public speaking and loved to debate, Graham told CNN.

After earning a bachelors degree in chemistry, Graham said he began pursuing his new goal despite the many challenges Black students face on their journey to become lawyers.

Next week, Graham will announce the name of the firm he will be joining. As he prepares to start his new job, he said he doesnt consider himself special.

Anything is possible. I am not special. I am just someone who had my mind set on something. I worked hard. I knew that maybe I didnt have as many resources as I would have loved too, but that is not going to stop me from reaching my goals, Graham said.

For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com
Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Administrator Anne Milgram said Sunday that various social media companies are not complying with them to help address the ongoing fentanyl crisis.

During an appearance on NBCs Meet The Press, Milgram told moderator Chuck Todd that social media has played a vital part in the sale of fentanyl. Milgram noted how drug cartels use the various platforms to market their material to people.

Social media is also a vital part of the conversation. It is what I call the last mile. Because what the cartels need  theyre selling the deadliest poison weve ever seen  they need that to get , Milgram told Todd.

They need a platform to advertise? Todd asked.

Exactly, Milgram replied. To be able to expand and sell more, they need to be able to reach people at massive rates. And thats what social medias doing.

Milgram also said that her agency has had conservations with social media companies on these issues, saying that those platforms will have to buckle down and enforce their rules if they see illegal activity on their sites.

Weve been in conversations with the social media companies. The Deputy Attorney General convened all of us in April of this year and made it very clear, number one, that the companies have to comply with their own terms of service, which say, This is illegal. You cannot be selling fake pills. You cannot be selling drugs on social media websites, Milgram told Todd.

Number two, law enforcement needs to get information from the social media companies. We have not, until recently, gotten nearly as much cooperation as we need, she added. And finally, this is an outright emergency. So they need to be doing absolutely everything they can to get the deadly drugs off their platform.

Milgrams remarks come months after she testified before the Senate Foreign Relations Committee about how multiple cartels use social media sites like Snapchat to sell their drugs to young users on the platform.

The cartels understand that if someone dies from taking their deadly fentanyl, that there are 100 million other users on Snapchat that they can sell their drugs to, Milgram said at the hearing. She also named the Sinaloa and Jalisco cartels as the perpetrators of the fentanyl crisis in the country.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Deputies ask for public help to find missing Rowan County teen

The Rowan County Sheriffs Office is asking for the publics help to find a missing teenager.

Fifteen-year-old Tiffanee Lynn Steverson was last seen in Salisbury at her house on File Farm Road, deputies say.

ALSO READ: Missing Stanly County teen found safe in Alabama; man charged with child abduction

According to the sheriffs office, the familys report points to the possibility of Steverson running away to Charlotte.

Deputies said the case is an open investigation.

Anyone who sees Steverson is asked to call the sheriffs office.

This is a developing story; check back at wsoctv.com for updates.

(WATCH BELOW: Amber Alert: Police looking for missing Fayetteville toddler)
Deputy assists man who passed out while changing flat tire in Cherokee County

A deputy was able to get medical assistance for a man who passed out while changing a flat tire in Cherokee County on Saturday.

On July 1, Cpl. Reilly with the Cherokee County Sheriffs Office stopped to assist a stranded motorist with a flat tire on the Howell Bridge Road exit of Interstate 575.

While Reilly was attempting to change the tire, the driver, a 70-year-old man, passed out from suspected heat exhaustion.

[DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks]

Reilly called for EMS and attempted to cool the man down and help him regain consciousness.

Once EMS arrived, the man was medically cleared.

A tow truck from Mauldin Body Shop & Towing responded and the tire was changed free of charge.

The stranded driver turned out to be the father of Investigator Harley Myers with the Cherokee County Sheriffs Office.

Myers responded to the scene and escorted his father home safely.

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In theory, I am Ron DeSantis perfect voter. I am a lifelong conservative, I vehemently oppose any and all COVID restrictions, and I am passionately anti-Trump. What could be a more ideal voter for a candidate like DeSantis?

Theres one problem for DeSantis, though: I am a gay woman. And I cant stand behind his attacks against the LGBTQ+ community.

I was undeniably on Team DeSantis before his campaign shared what could be considered the most anti-LGBTQ+ ad in recent history, boasting about all the measures hes supported cracking down on the LGBTQ+ community. Not only did DeSantis show that he is as anti-LGBTQ+ as the mainstream media has alleged, he made a mockery of any GOP candidate that shows an interest in LGBTQ+ rights, setting the whole party back decades.

To wrap up Pride Month, lets hear from the politician who did more than any other Republican to celebrate it



pic.twitter.com/FT7LdW4vls  DeSantis War Room  (@DeSantisWarRoom) June 30, 2023

Despite my conservative credentials, you couldnt pay me to vote for the Florida governor now. I am a lesbian and DeSantis has made it abundantly clear that he doesnt want any LGBTQ+ conservatives on his team because of their identity.

When DeSantis was toying with the idea of running for president, he sounded like the perfect candidate: He was Trump without the Trumpiness. Little did I know DeSantis was farther to the right on issues that meant the most to me and the more than 70 percent of Americans who support gay rights.

He has made it clear in the past few weeks that hes more interested in appeasing Twitter trolls who abhor any American who identifies as LGBTQ+. To DeSantis, if you are gay, you are not allowed to be a part of the conservative movement.

A few years ago, I wouldnt have believed this, but DeSantis' recent anti-LGBTQ+ ad has proved that he is to the right of Trump when it comes to LGBTQ+ issues. If Trump was someone who doesnt support the movement, DeSantis is an all-out hater.

My gayness has nothing to do with the fact that Florida is a booming state in an otherwise lackluster economy. That being said, DeSantis has made it abundantly clear that he does not support gay Americans regardless of whether they support his conservative agenda.

When I first encountered DeSantis during his bold stance against COVID mandates earlier this year, I was generally pleased with the Florida governor. He seemed just like what conservatives have been missing.

The Stunning Place Where Trump Is Beating DeSantis the Worst

But when the legislative session brought issues concerning LGBTQ+ rights to the forefront, my excitement quickly turned to disappointment. It became evident that DeSantis was not the champion of individual freedoms and rights that I had hoped for.

His anti-gay rhetoric and actions are not only deeply hurtful to LGBTQ+ Americans like myself but also tarnish the image of the conservative movement. As a lifelong conservative, I believe in the principles of limited government, personal responsibility, and individual liberties. Yet, DeSantis approach to LGBTQ+ issues goes against these very principles.

By excluding LGBTQ+ conservatives and attacking their rights, DeSantis alienates a significant portion of his potential base, effectively driving away voters who share many of his other conservative beliefs. It is disheartening to witness a candidate who could have been a uniting force within the party instead contributing to further divisiveness.

DeSantis stance on LGBTQ+ issues not only contradicts conservative values but also reflects a severe disconnect from the majority of Americans who support gay rights. According to polls, over 70 percent of Americans support gay marriage, and this number continues to rise. By disregarding such a significant portion of the population, DeSantis reveals a concerning lack of understanding of the evolving societal norms and values.

As a gay woman, my sexual orientation is just one aspect of my identity, and it should not define my political beliefs or my place within the conservative movement. Unfortunately, DeSantis seems to believe that ones sexual orientation determines their worthiness to be part of the conservative cause. This divisive mentality does not bode well for the future of the Republican party or its chances of success in broader elections.

The Republican party should strive to be a big-tent party, embracing diverse perspectives and voices. Alienating LGBTQ+ individuals only weakens the partys appeal and restricts its ability to attract new supporters. It is vital for the party to evolve and adapt to the changing attitudes of the American people, rather than clinging to outdated and discriminatory views.

DeSantis must recognize that his anti-gay rhetoric is not only harmful to LGBTQ+ Americans but also detrimental to the very principles he claims to uphold. If he truly aims to lead the conservative movement and bring about positive change for all Americans, he must abandon divisive tactics and focus on policies that promote unity and inclusivity.

So far, he is only losing everyday Americans, including many conservatives like myself, through his disgusting anti-gay rhetoric. His attacks against the LGBTQ+ community and exclusion of LGBTQ+ conservatives are not only morally wrong but politically misguided. The Republican party must distance itself from such harmful behavior and strive to be a party that welcomes all Americans, regardless of their sexual orientation. Only then can it hope to represent the true values of conservatism and garner the support needed to succeed in future elections.

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A PG&E crew travels by airboat to decommission power poles on Makram Hanna's flooded pistachio orchard. A breach of a nearby levee allowed water to flow from the surging Tulare Lake and flooded hundreds of acres. (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times)

A few years ago, Makram Hanna took his savings from years of work in real estate and decided to make a big investment together with relatives and two other families. They bought 1,270 acres of farmland in Kings County, and in 2021 they planted pistachio trees.

Many of those trees, which have yet to produce a crop, now sit under 2 feet of water.

Its a disaster, Hanna said, standing with arms crossed beside rows of inundated pistachio trees. Huge losses.

Jose Pineda squeezes a handful of dirt to check its moisture content as he tends to Makram Hanna's pistachio orchard. (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times)

The floodwaters cover hundreds of acres on the farm. Hanna fears that many of the trees will not survive.

The return of Tulare Lake after this years major storms has left Hanna and his family with a costly ordeal  and many questions about how they might be able to recover from the loss.

To see everything we worked for going down the drain, it's very hard, he said. We have to think about the future, and where we get funds to rebuild our farm. It's very difficult.

Read more: Worry and suspicion reign as once-dry Tulare Lake drowns California farmland

The lake has reappeared previously in wet years, such as 1969, 1983 and 1997. And many of the fields that have flooded were planted with seasonal row crops such as tomatoes, cotton and safflower. For these types of crops, growers can simply evacuate sprinklers and other equipment to wait out the flooding.

Tree crops, however, sustain more costly damage. And in recent years, landowners have planted more pistachio orchards around the Tulare Basin as well as other parts of the San Joaquin Valley. Some of those orchards turned out to be vulnerable when rivers swollen with runoff broke through levees and inundated farmlands.

A breach of the Boyett Levee flooded hundreds of acres of Makram Hanna's pistachio farm. The breach allowed water to flow from the surging Tulare Lake, left foreground, inundating the orchard. (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times)

For Hanna, who commutes to the farm each week from his home in San Diego County, dealing with the flooding and trying to save the remaining trees presents a stressful challenge.

The 68-year-old immigrated to the United States from Egypt in 1979, and he said overseeing the pistachio farm often reminds him of his childhood, when he worked during summers on his grandmothers small cotton farm.

Months ago, he would enjoy walking through the rows and inspecting the trees. But lately, he is intent on finding ways to limit the damage.

My focus is to find a solution for this disaster, Hanna said. What do we need to do not to lose everything? Because right now, it seems like we are about to lose everything.

Of the more than 1,200 acres of pistachio trees on the farm, Hanna said, more than 800 acres are flooded, while about 450 acres are dry or nearly dry.

On a recent afternoon, Hanna was strategizing how to get a diesel motor working to pump water to irrigate dry areas of the farm and keep those trees alive.

Read more: See the rebirth of California's 'phantom' Tulare Lake in striking before-and-after images

He said he also has been grappling with other questions: When is the water going to recede, and where are we going to get the money to rehab our ranch? And should we rehab the ranch? Is it salvageable?

If Hanna and his partners decide to take out dead trees and plant new ones, the cost would be high. Replanting a single acre of pistachios can cost roughly $20,000.

Hanna said the farm has a liability insurance policy, but he doubts it will cover much, if any, of the flood damage.

He said he expects his family and their partners will need to shoulder substantial losses.

"What do we need to do not to lose everything? Because right now, it seems like we are about to lose everything."

Makram Hanna

Farmer Makram Hanna stands beside his flooded pistachio orchard. (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times)

All my savings, all my inheritance, and all my brother and sister's inheritance, it's all right here, Hanna said.

For Hanna, the flooding has come as a sudden shock after years of successes in business.

As a young man, he studied molecular biology at Cal State Northridge and later did odd jobs, including construction and busing tables. He eventually got into selling real estate, including auto shops and buildings at business parks, and developed gas stations.

I lived the American dream, Hanna said. The reality is, no matter what the work is, just be persistent and you'll succeed.

The pistachio farm isnt Hannas first agricultural venture. He started in the early 2000s with 40 acres of wine grapes in Madera and farmed it on his own until he decided to pool resources with relatives and two other families to invest in the farm near Corcoran.

Hanna said they studied the area before deciding to purchase the land.

The farm was being used for row crops at the time. But Hanna and his partners saw that neighboring farms were planted with almonds and pistachios, and they decided on pistachios.

Farm manager Jose Pineda pauses while tending to young pistachio trees near Makram Hanna's flooded land. (Robert Gauthier/Los Angeles Times)

Many other farmers have made the same decision over the last two decades, planting pistachios or almonds in place of other crops. Between 2002 and 2022, California's total pistachio acreage skyrocketed from 106,000 acres to 554,000 acres. In addition to being profitable, pistachios are hardy trees that can thrive with moderately salty water and soil, which is widespread in parts of the valley.

Hanna said another reason he wanted to plant pistachios is that he sees the nuts as an environmentally friendly crop. He touted the trees' ability to sequester carbon and said his farm's water use  about 2.7 acre-feet per acre annually  was less than fields producing three rotations per year of tomatoes, cotton and corn.

Hanna said he wasnt aware of any previous flooding on the land. A map of the 1983 flood, however, shows the property was inundated during that reappearance of Tulare Lake.

In May, as floodwaters rose, Hanna inspected the levee that protected the farm. It was built decades ago by farmers, and he said an engineer told him it was going to break.

When the levee finally gave way on May 23, water poured through the breach onto the farm, inundating the trees.

Hanna was flying back to San Diego on a commercial flight, looking down at the area from a window seat, when he saw the floodwaters rushing onto his farm.

An aerial view of Makram Hanna's flooded pistachio orchard after a breach of a nearby levee allowed water from Tulare Lake to flow onto the property. (Robert Gauthier/Los Angeles Times)

The intrusion of the water after the levee broke was violent, and there is no way you could control it, Hanna said.

As he spoke, the pond beside the orchard was filled with wading birds, including avocets and black-necked stilts. The scent of marshy mud hung in the air.

Nearby, a work crew from the California Conservation Corps was reinforcing the levee that protects Corcoran.

In the distance, the hum of an airboat emanated from the lake. PG&E crews on airboats were out removing equipment from power poles after shutting off electricity in the area.

Anticipating the flooding and the loss of power, Hanna's workers had moved pumps and installed the diesel motor. In early June, Hanna said he was trying to have a diesel tank placed next to the motor to get some pumps working again.

Three weeks later, he said workers were trying to fix the levee and were pumping water out of the flooded part of the orchard.

Farmer Makram Hanna snaps a photo of a berm he says a neighboring farmer built to prevent surging floodwater from reaching a wheat field, right. (Robert Gauthier/Los Angeles Times)

"Were not giving up. This may completely bankrupt us, but we dont want to fail to try," he said.

Hanna said he is thankful that a third of the farm has been spared by the floodwater, which has begun to recede.

I hope and pray that it would get better, he said.

Hanna, a Coptic Christian, said his wife has sought to reassure him by reminding him that its all tangible. Still, Hanna said the worries are hard to escape, and hes been having trouble sleeping.

I only slept two hours last night, he said. It's stressful. But you know, I have my family and have my faith, and that helps. And I have good partners too.

Read more: Tulare Lake floodwaters now receding, Newsom's office says. 'We've turned a corner'

Beyond his own situation, Hanna said he is concerned that California hasnt been investing enough in water infrastructure projects, such as a long-discussed plan to increase water storage by raising Pine Flat Dam.

Had that dam been raised by 12 feet as proposed, Hanna said, it would be very meaningful to everybody, to every farmer in that area.

He said he thinks this type of project would help as climate change brings more intense floods.

If we have control over that water, we wouldn't have the dismal problem that we are facing right now, Hanna said.

Some other people in the area, including leaders of the Santa Rosa Rancheria Tachi Yokut Tribe, have suggested setting aside some farmland to allow the lake to remain instead of draining it again.

But Hanna said he thinks if Pine Flat Reservoir were expanded, more water could be stored and released gradually to replenish the areas depleted groundwater and sustain agriculture and wildlife habitats.

Government needs to take charge and inject capital to build water projects that benefit our environment, our residents and farmers, he said.

While struggling with the flooding, Hanna said, he has continued paying farmworkers. He was talking with a contractor about bringing a crew to prune trees and do other work.

Birds, such as this great egret, have been foraging in the water at Makram Hanna's flooded pistachio farm. (Robert Gauthier/Los Angeles Times)

By the grace of God, we have two fields here that are being saved, he said. As far as I'm concerned, they are saved. So we're going to start working on them.

As for the trees that remain underwater, Hanna said he doesnt know how many might be lost.

The reality is, we're going to have to wait it out and see what will happen, he said.

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
Dog shot in the face in Florida adopted by sheriff's office employee and his wife

A man who shot a dog in the face in Florida last April was sentenced to 18 months in prison, the Flagler County Sheriff's Office shared in a news release June 29.

The dog, Rocky, had surgery after the April 2022 shooting and made a full recovery, according to the release. The dog was adopted by Hayden Ore, a crime analyst with the sheriff's office, and his wife. The couple says the dog has made a "wonderful addition" to their family and has shown no signs of aggression.

"Rocky is now living happily with Analyst Ore and his wife and no longer has to live in fear," Flagler County Sheriff Rick Staly said in a statement.

Rocky. (Flagler County Sheriff's Office)

State Attorney R.J. Larizza called the dog's recovery "miraculous" in a statement.

There is no doubt he suffered greatly. Rocky has a loving home and the defendant is behind bars. A fitting end to a disturbing crime," Larizza said.

Jamier Lee-Bright pled guilty to felony cruelty to animals and tampering with physical evidence, according to authorities. In addition to serving 18 months in prison, he has been sentenced to 42 months of probation, placed on the animal abuse registry and must forfeit his firearm and complete a mental health evaluation.

On April 5, 2022, after neighbors reported hearing gunshots and an animal crying, Flagler County deputies found Rocky shot in the snout and left in a kennel. Lee-Bright, who was at the home, initially said he didn't hear anything, but the responders called in detectives for an investigation after noticing a freshly dug hole and blood on his face.

The news release states that Lee-Bright later said a family member screamed at the dog because he bit her. Lee-Bright told detectives he shot the dog in the head outside before placing him back in the kennel, where Rocky was left for more than two hours, according to the news release.

The dog had surgery, which included staples in his snout, a metal pin in his leg, multiple stitches and a drain in his neck. During his recovery, Rocky was turned over to Palm Coast Animal Control, but after Ore heard the dog's story, he agreed to foster the dog after he was released from the vet.

By May 10, 2022, Rocky was able to put weight on his leg again, the sheriff's office said in a release at the time. According to his new owner, Rocky is "very playful, loves his toys, is great with our other dog, and loves everyone he meets. Hes never even growled at us, unlike his previous family claimed. A little love goes a long way!

This article was originally published on TODAY.com
Firefighters rescued a person whose vehicle had crashed into a pole Sunday morning.

Penn Hills firefighters say they were called to the 8900 block of Frankstown Road at around 5:30 a.m.

When they arrived, they found an SUV that had crashed into a utility pole. The pole was knocked onto the ground and the driver was unconscious inside the vehicle.

Firefighters forced the drivers door open to get them out.

The driver was taken to a hospital and investigators say their injuries were not life-threatening.

Frankstown Road had to be closed while Duquesne Light Company made repairs.

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Debris of a downed kamikaze drone fell on the roof of one of the houses

Falling debris from intercepted Russian suicide drones have injured a resident of Kyiv Oblast, as well as damaging a number of houses, Kyiv military administration chief Ruslan Kravchenko reported on Facebook on July 2.

Three houses in two of the oblast's districts were damaged, causing a fire to break out in one of them, Kravchenko said.

Read also: Russia mass ordering Shahed suicide drones, seeks to self-manufacture

An injured resident suffered a trauma to his leg, but has been provided with medical care. The blaze has since been extinguished.

Two other houses suffered minor damage to the roofs, facades, and windows.

Kravchenko said that the owners of the houses would receive government support to repair the damage caused.

Read also: Iran likely supplies new batch of suicide drones to Russia

Operational groups are currently recording the consequences of the invaders attack at the impact site.

The Russian invasion forces launched Iranian-made kamikaze drones into Ukraine overnight on July 2. Air defense forced were operating in a number of oblasts, the Ukrainian government said, shooting down a total of eight Shahed drones and three Kalibr cruise missiles.

All of the enemy drones approaching Kyiv were shot down in the vicinity of the city.

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On Sunday, 2 July, Russian troops launched 11 missile attacks on Ukraine and used 8 Shahed-type UAVs, as well as inflicted 40 airstrikes and about 30 strikes from multiple-launch rocket systems.

Source: General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine on Facebook, information as of 18:00 on 2 July.

Details: During the day, the Russians launched 11 missile strikes and used 8 Iranian attack UAVs of the Shahed type (earlier, the Air Force reported that Ukraines air defence forces downed 8 Russian drones and 3 Kalibr cruise missiles on the night of 1-2 July).

In addition, the Russians inflicted 40 air strikes and carried out about 30 attacks from multiple-launch missile systems on the positions of Ukrainian troops and settlements. In addition to the destroyed civilian infrastructure, there are civilian casualties. The probability of missile and air strikes throughout Ukraine remains high.

The Russians focus their main efforts on the Lyman, Bakhmut, Avdiivka and Marinka fronts, heavy fighting continues. During the day, over 28 combat clashes were recorded.

On the Volyn and Polissia fronts, the operational situation is without significant changes.

On the Sivershchyna and Slobozhanshchyna fronts, the Russians maintain military presence. They carried out mortar and artillery attacks on more than 30 settlements. These are, in particular, Khrinivka, Kamianska Sloboda in Chernihiv Oblast; Sopych, Bilopillia and Ponomarenky in Sumy Oblast; Kozacha Lopan and Vovchansk in Kharkiv Oblast.

On the Kupiansk front, Masiutivka, Kyslivka and Berestove in Kharkiv Oblast were subjected to artillery and mortar attacks.

On the Lyman front, the Russians launched air strikes in the areas of Bilohorivka and Novoliubivka in Luhansk Oblast, as well as Siversk in Donetsk Oblast. Nevske, Bilohorivka in Luhansk Oblast, as well as Verkhnokamianske and Torske in Donetsk Oblast were subjected to artillery shelling.

On the Bakhmut front, the Russians carried out unsuccessful offensive operations in the areas of Minkivka and Bohdanivka, Donetsk Oblast. Over 10 settlements were affected by artillery shelling, among them Chasiv Yar and Ivanivske in Donetsk Oblast.

On the Avdiivka front, the Russians carried out unsuccessful offensive operations and inflicted an airstrike in the area of the city of Avdiivka. They also carried out artillery shelling of more than 10 settlements. Avdiivka and Pervomaiske in Donetsk Oblast were among those that came under fire.

On the Marinka front, Ukrainian units repelled all Russian attacks in the area of Marinka. At the same time, the Russians launched air strikes in the areas of Kotliarivka, Marinka and Kurakhove and targeted over 10 settlements from artillery. Among them are Marinka and Novomykhailivka in Donetsk Oblast.

On the Shakhtarsk front, the Russians launched an airstrike in the area of Bohoiavlenka. They also carried out shelling of more than 10 settlements, in particular, Zolota Nyva, Velyka Novosilka, Vodiane and Vuhledar in Donetsk Oblast.

On the Zaporizhzhia and Kherson fronts, the Russians focus their main efforts on preventing the advance of Ukrainian troops. They inflicted air strikes in the areas of Zmiivka and Antonivka. They also carried out artillery shelling of more than 40 settlements, including Novodarivka, Olhivske, Huliaipole, Bilohiria in Zaporizhzhia Oblast; Kozatske, Antonivka, Dniprovske in Kherson Oblast and the city of Kherson.

During the day, the Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine carried out 9 attacks on clusters of Russian personnel, while units of Rocket Forces and Artillery hit 22 artillery systems in combat positions and two air defence systems.

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Ed Sheeran joins young musicians for surprise concert, invites them to Gillette Stadium show

Ed Sheeran played for the largest crowd in Gillette Stadium history Saturday night. But he put on a special show earlier in the day as well.

The music icon dropped in at a recital at the Tobin Community Center for a surprise collaboration with the Boston Music Project.

Kiss 108 shared video of Sheeran singing his hit song Eyes Closed with the kids.

According to Kiss 108, the children had no idea that Sheeran would be coming to share the stage.

You guys are fantastic. Thanks for letting me play with you, Sheeran told the kids.

After the show was done, Sheeran invited the children to his show later that night.

AH @edsheeran just invited all of the kids to his show tonight at @GilletteStadium!!  pic.twitter.com/rdGWEJZ6xy  Kiss 108 (@Kiss108) July 1, 2023

https://www.instagram.com/reel/CuK64pWR5c8/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

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And this our life, says the stoic Duke Senior in William Shakespeares As You Like It, exempt from public haunt,/ Finds tongues in trees, books in the running brooks,/ Sermons in stones, and good in everything./ I would not change it.

As descriptions of the bucolic pleasures of retirement go, that one is tough to beat. We certainly wish all that for Barbara Gaines, the founding artistic director of Chicago Shakespeare Theater, who officially made her exit Friday, albeit, were told, with the lifelong retention of the title Founder. Justly so.

Gaines spent 37 years as artistic director of Chicago Shakespeare, a word-pairing that previously would have been thought by many to be oxymoronic, a company that she founded on the roof of the Red Lion pub. Over those years, she did more than anyone else to raise Bard awareness in Chicago, first on the North Side and then on Navy Pier, where his poetry always outclassed the fudge and trinket stores even as he brought them winter business.

Gaines has long been a populist, a believer that Shakespeares genius made him universal in appeal and thus that he belonged equally to everybody. Her work always privileged clarity and accessibility and she has displayed a healthy skepticism toward pompous Shakespeareans. Looking back on her oeuvre is to appreciate a distinct Gaines aesthetic, created in concert with local actors, and it has Chicago at its very core.

Were sure Gaines hardly is done with Shakespeare, nor he with her. Unlike Prospero at the end of The Tempest, she wont be breaking her staff and burying it in the earth. We can all be glad for that, as well as for all Gaines did for Shakespeare on the shores of Lake Michigan.

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Editorial: The search for Chicagos top cop is down to six semifinalists. We have some questions for them.

The number of semifinalists for the job of Chicago police superintendent has been whittled down to six by the Community Commission for Public Safety and Accountability, which now has the task of producing three finalists by July 14 for Mayor Brandon Johnson, who has the final hiring decision.

The new superintendent will inherit a department thats significantly understaffed, grappling with low morale, and tasked with law enforcement in a city where rising violent crime is foremost on the minds of Chicagoans. What questions should be asked of these semifinalists to produce the best final outcome?

We settled on six queries we think the commission should put to the six candidates still in the mix: Larry Snelling, chief of the Chicago Police Departments Bureau of Counterterrorism; Migdalia Bulnes, a CPD deputy chief; Ernest Cato III, the CPD Counterterrorism Bureaus former chief; Angel Novalez, chief of CPDs Office of Constitutional Policing and Reform; attorney Donna Rowling, commander of CPDs Labor Relations Division; and Madison police Chief Shon Barnes.

So, commission members, get out your pens and notebooks, and jot down these questions:

 CPDs internal affairs bureau has opened more than 11,000 investigations into complaints of police officer misconduct in the last four and a half years, the Tribune recently reported. Allegations scrutinized in those investigations included bribery and corruption, officer substance abuse, criminal misconduct and other CPD rule violations. Officers who routinely break the rules, and in many cases the law, cannot forge trust with the communities theyre sworn to serve and protect.

As superintendent, what would you do to crack down on officer misconduct?

 Speaking of police misconduct, its the driving force behind $8.8 million that City Hall agreed to pay recently to settle three lawsuits. City Hall writes the checks, but its Chicago taxpayers who foot the bills, in the form of ever-rising property taxes. One of those lawsuits was filed by Arthur Brown, who spent almost three decades behind bars after being wrongfully convicted of arson and a double murder. Brown testified that Chicago police beat him to coerce a false confession about a fire at a video store that spread to a nearby shop and killed two people inside.

He was eventually released in 2017 and exonerated. He was 37 when convicted, and is now 72  robbed of freedom for much of his life by a detective who chose torture over justice. City Halls most recent payouts of $8.8 million are just the tip of the iceberg  the city doled out more than $100 million in police settlements in 2022.

As superintendent, what would your road map be for putting an end to this never-ending conveyor belt of police settlements?

 We have written many times about the laggard pace CPD is guilty of when it comes to compliance with the federally mandated consent decree, the comprehensive set of reforms established in early 2019 that require the department to overhaul its training supervision and accountability. Compliance continues to fall short. The consent decrees independent monitor, Maggie Hickey, says the department is in full compliance with just 6% of mandated reforms.

The consent decree isnt a suggestion box  its a court-ordered road map that gets CPD to a place where communities, particularly Black and brown neighborhoods on the South and West sides, can begin to put trust in law enforcement. Hickeys right when she says progress could be much better. We urge the city to immediately make short- and long-term efforts to ensure required reforms become daily practices, Hickey said in a statement released June 29. The citys new administration and incoming superintendent must meet this moment.

So, if you become superintendent, will you meet this moment?

 CPD has a problem with truth-telling. The citys Office of Inspector General recently found that more than a hundred Chicago police officers knowingly gave false information during criminal investigations. Worse, at times cops lied about witnessing excessive force used by fellow officers. Code of silence behavior continues to roadblock the departments path to reform.

As superintendent, what would you do to rid the department of its code of silence mindset, once and for all?

 Violence prevention and street outreach programs clearly work. Research has shown that participation by young men in these programs leads to sharp drops in their arrests for violent crime, as well as fewer fatal and nonfatal gunshot injuries among them. Johnson is a proponent of violence prevention programs, and so are we.

As superintendent, how would you work with the mayor to integrate CPDs community policing efforts with violence prevention and street outreach?

 Chicago is in the midst of another violent summer. Statistically, it may not be as bad as past summers, but statistics dont matter to children on the South and West sides caught in crossfire between rival gangs, or families afraid to head out for an afternoon walk in any and all neighborhoods. So this question is as simple as it is crucial.

What would be your approach toward breaking the ceaseless cycle of summer violence that too often turns sun-dappled weekends into Monday morning homicide tallies?

We know the commission has done a good deal of candidate interviewing. They may want to do a bit more, and heres why.

The choice of police superintendent in Chicago is critical to the citys future, short-term and long-term. Violent crime is pushing families, businesses and jobs to leave the city. Trust in the Chicago Police Department has ebbed precipitously over the last few years. Theres no margin for error here. This city can no longer countenance a police superintendent who will preserve the status quo or arrive with the wrong blueprint for change.

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A moving walkway speeds a pilot between terminals at at LaGuardia Airport in Queens, Dec. 5, 2014. (Karsten Moran/The New York Times)

An airline passenger in Thailand had part of her leg amputated this past week after an accident on a moving airport walkway, Thai authorities said.

The accident, involving a 57-year-old woman, occurred Thursday in the domestic terminal of Don Mueang International, the older and smaller of two major airports that serve Bangkok, the capital.

Its unclear precisely what happened. Local news media initially reported that the womans leg had been pulled into the walkways machinery after she tripped on her suitcase. But her family said Saturday that she had been walking normally when part of the walkway collapsed.

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Whats clear is that her leg was amputated up to the kneecap after the accident. Thai authorities are now trying to determine if the accident resulted from human error or equipment malfunction.

Why It Matters: Walkways are widely used and seldom feared.

Such walkways are known as moving walks to government regulators and construction companies. Moving walks are often talked about in the same breath as escalators because they use similar technology and move at about the same speed  generally 100 feet per minute, or just over 1 mph.

The main difference is incline. An escalator sits at about 30 degrees, but a moving walks incline is typically no more than one-tenth of that. Many moving walks are flat.

Escalators and moving walks ease the movement of billions of people through airports, shopping malls and other public spaces each year. The National Elevator Industry, an industry group in the United States, estimates that about 105 billion passengers ride escalators annually  the worlds population, multiplied by 13  in the United States alone.

Escalators and moving walks are widely seen as very safe. But, like virtually any form of public transportation, they occasionally malfunction.

In Australia, for example, inspectors in the state of Queensland found two recent examples of moving walks that were operating with a missing pallet, the technical term for the metal slats that separate passengers from the whirring machinery below.

And in Thailand, a passenger at Don Mueang International Airport reported losing a shoe to the machinery of a moving walk in 2019, Thai news media outlets reported this past week.

Background: How likely is an accident on an airport walkway?

Data for the safety of moving walks is scarce. But if we go by escalator-safety data, the answer is not very.

An average of 2 deaths per year in the United States involve escalators, lower than the figure for elevators, according to a 2013 review of U.S. government data by the Center for Construction Research and Training, a nonprofit group in Maryland.

The risk of injury is higher: About 10,000 escalator-related injuries result in a trip to the emergency room in the United States each year. But even that figure is exceedingly small if you consider the sheer volume of escalator and moving walk trips that people take every day.

In Thailand, the moving walk where the accident occurred this past week had been used at Don Mueang International since 1996, the airports director, Karant Thanakuljeerapat, told reporters.

Don Mueang carried more than 13 million domestic passengers last year, and nearly twice as many in the years immediately before the coronavirus pandemic, according to government data. So, over nearly three decades, a moving walk there could have carried many tens of millions of passengers.

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Photo Illustration by Thomas Levinson/The Daily Beast/HBO/Getty

Its hard to believe that HBOs catastrophic series The Idol was promising at one point.

The premise of a pop star falling in love with a cult leader seemed fascinating. The Weeknd, aka Abel Tesfaye, was going to show us what he could do as an actor (not a lot, it turns out) following his Uncut Gems cameo. And with talented indie director Amy Seimetz at the helm, it seemed like Sam Levinson had finally allowed someone to swoop in and save him from his own shortcomings as an auteur.

But as we now know, Seimetz was reportedly ousted from the project by Levinson and Tesfaye over creative differences. And a shocking Rolling Stone expose revealed a slew of behind-the-scenes issues, many of them related to Levinsons penchant for depicting sexual violence.

Likewise, The Idol has delivered everything you would expect from a Levinson production: poor direction, bad actingmostly from Tesfayea meandering plot, cringy sex scenes, and diatribes against woke culture that sound more like Levinsons voice than the characters. As with Euphoria, the most redeemable aspect of the show is its performersagain, outside of Tesfayeparticularly its star Lily Rose Depp, who elevates abysmal material.

HBO

While the first episode presented an interesting analysis of the music industry, the series never followed through with those ideas, leaving the audience to piece together what the show was trying to sayif anything at all.

Ahead of The Idols finale on Sunday, The Daily Beasts Obsesseds Kyndall Cunningham and Coleman Spilde discuss everything that went wrong with the seriesfrom its depiction of sex to its main villain Tedrosand if theres any hope for the final episode.

Kyndall Cunningham: Lets start with the aspects of The Idol we actually liked. You and I agree that the premiere wasnt as bad or grotesque as the reviews straight out of Cannes led us to believe. I cant say that it was good. But hanging out with Jocelyns team and seeing the inner machinations of her career are far more compelling than her sexcapades with Tedros and whatever vaguely written emotional crisis shes having.

Coleman Spilde: I genuinely thought the premiere was one of the best episodes of television so far this year. I thought it was the perfect mixture of Sam Levinsons signature stylistic approach, and a fascinating, base-level dissection of what happens when pop stardom goes off the rails. Judging by the Cannes reaction, I thought it was going to be garbage, and I think loving the pilot made me cling to being a contrarian to the anti-Idol rhetoric. Thats why the rest of the series ended up so disappointing: the potential was there in that premiere, only to string along all of the plot points it set up for five episodes, with no further story progression.

HBO

KC: The premiere also gave us an earworm, which I thought we were going to be treated with throughout the show: trashy, cookie-cutter pop music thats ironically good. (World Class Sinner/Im A Freak is the song of the summer.) The use of music in the premiere felt smart and economical, including the Like A Prayer remix when Jocelyn meets Tedros for the first time. But the rest of the show fails on delivering these big musical moments. Theres just a lot of 80s saxophone music.

CS: Jocelyns song was really the centerpiece of that episode, it instantly became a meme for its tawdry deliciousness. The Weeknds sonic influence was sorely felt in every original song after that, and he really did permeate the series in all the wrong ways. The first episode spent so much time bringing us into Jocelyns worldand setting up what I thought was a fabulously committed Lily-Rose Depp performancethat we had no idea how wretched things would become once Tesfaye got more screen time.

KC: Exactly. The first episode was promising mainly because we got to see what Depp was capable ofand we hadnt yet been exposed to the monstrosity that is Tesfayes acting. Ultimately, I ended up being grateful that his performance was so laughably bad because it was the only thing really keeping me awake throughout the subsequent episodes. Anyway, I think we can all agree this man needs to stay away from Hollywood scripts and stick to wearing prosthetics in music videos.

CS: Part of what I found to be so aggravating is that The Weeknds influence is so markedly felt on the show. I think theres a clear delineation between Amy Seimetzs original version of The Idol, and the one that The Weeknd and Sam Levinson eventually produced. For the first couple of episodes, those versions seemed to have an evident boundary line; Seimetzs version seemed like Jocelyns activities, taking place in the day, while Levinson/The Weeknds was exploring Tedros at night. Once Tedros bled into the entire affair, things veered off the rails. That was the most clear to me, you, and every person on Twitter with his laughable performance in Episode 3.

HBO

KC: Unfortunately, that whole Valentino sceneplus the slap in the kitchenis sort of iconic now for its utter terribleness. I have more than 20 recordings from that episode on my phone because I couldnt believe what I was witnessing. Tesfayes whole performance seems so self-indulgent, like hes living out his Martin Scorcese anti-hero dreams at the expense of a well-crafted scene. But it ultimately comes down to the directing.

With Euphoria, Levinson was blessed with a naturally talented set of actors. And based on interviews, it seems like Levinson takes the Cassavetes approach of letting his performers play around and feel out a scene. But Tesfaye needed the sort of instruction thats required for a pop star whos only been stunt-cast in things. All his scenes have this really awkward rhythm. And he delivers his lines like hes reading off of Saturday Night Live cue cards.

CS: For someone with a lot of musical charisma, hes extremely stiff on-camera. I think thats something a lot of musicians dont necessarily realize, that being a theatrical performer doesnt necessarily equate to being a good actor. Ive said before that I think Tedros is meant to be a leech, and thats why hes not imposing, because hes hindered by his own desperation for fame and control. But that directly negates the premise of the show, that everyone is under this wannabe cult leaders spell. It might be believable that someone could fall for this guy if Tesfaye was more noticeably studied in his craft and the erotic thriller genre, as opposed to just throwing around buzzwords every time he gets pushback.

That said, before the fingerbanging scene in Episode 4, I didnt really think the sex scenes were as terrible as everyone made them out to be. Whats more confusing is how The Idol conflates Jocelyns abuse at the hands of her mother with her desire for kinky sex and torrid relationships. These things could all fit together with some decent writingand a womans point of viewbut without that, theyre left floating with no narrative throughline, which has been upsetting to so many people.

HBO

KC: Thats a really good point. I dont think all sex scenes need to have a specific purpose or move the plot along. But Levinson was obviously trying to make a (albeit heavy-handed) correlation between Jocelyns trauma and her twisted sexual desires that never really manifested. The multiple scenes of Jocelyn masturbating were confusing as well. Like, lets shoehorn some female empowerment between all this degrading sex!

In general, the shows sexual content felt really compulsory. Like, Oh, its been two minutes since Tedros has been gross to Jocelyn, so lets have him lightly spank her in a store closet. If youre going to portray sex in such an un-erotic way, it should at least be jarring and weird.

CS: Sexboth having it, and using itwas undoubtedly a big part of this shows conceit. Sexuality was far more interesting when The Idol was discussing sensuality as a music industry tool. Thats something were all aware of, and the show could have found compelling ways to elucidate the connection between sex and sales. The best we got out of that was Jocelyns human cumsock moment in the first episode, which ultimately did not feel like nearly as big of a hindrance on Jocelyns career as the series initially made it out to be.

We ended up with Troye Sivans character, Xander, suggesting that Jocelyn use the photo as her album cover. Itd be a wild move, but at least we could see the seismic impact it would have on her place in the industry. Instead, Xander ended up largely shafted by the show, like most of the tertiary characters. Yet hes still the sole point of narrative progression that weve gotten this entire time, when hes tortured by Tedros into revealing that Jocelyns mothers abuse didnt stop at her daughter. I think that scene was the first time the show felt like it had real stakes, and then it abandoned them by the time the episode was done.

HBO

KC: Yeah, instead we move on to an absolutely bone-chilling scene of Tedros spraying Leila with a water gun. The appearance by Jocelyns ex at the end of that episode also took us down another needless but predictable path (aka Tedros will get pissed and do more bad things.) Im confused about how the show will wrap up because everyone feels so aimless. I have to assume itll end in some bloodshed. But will we have any grasp on what the show was actually about?

CS: Unfortunately, I dont think we will. It would appear that were headed for a Jocelyn concert performance, which could bring some sort of excitement (or terror). There was also that scene of her furiously walking through her labels offices from the (very good, extremely misleading) third trailer. But Im no longer confident this show has an endgame in mind. I cant have been the only one hoping Tedros would kill Joss ex, just to raise the stakes. That didnt happen, of course. The Idol has defied my expectations in the worst ways. This show had the potential, the budget, and the runtime to be a singular analysis of the music industrys toxicity. Instead, it fell prey to the same narcissism it was trying to send up.

KC: I highly doubt The Idol can be saved at this point, even if the finale is miraculously good. I also cant imagine anyone revisiting this show five or 10 years from now and giving it a reappraisal. It just sucks that what initially seemed like a promising series turned into a casualty of male egos. Ultimately, I think the chaos behind the scenes and the rollout of the show tells a more compelling story about showbiz than Levinson or Tesfaye can ever offer. I cant wait for the tell-all book.

Keep obsessing! Sign up for the Daily Beasts Obsessed newsletter and follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and TikTok.

Read more of our The Idol coverage HERE.

The Idol Torture Episode Recap: The Worst One Yet

The Only Reason The Idol Is Remotely Watchable

The Idol Round 3: More Disturbing Trauma and Public Oral Sex

Read more at The Daily Beast.

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An El Nino event that weather experts said is already here will likely cause extreme weather events, affecting local economies and the price of coffee, The Washington Post recently reported.

Whats happening?

This naturally occurring phenomenon changes normal rain and temperature patterns and can create extreme weather conditions in many parts of the world, including the United States.

These extreme weather patterns can bring floods to some areas and droughts to others, which can damage food crops, including those necessary for the worlds coffee production.

Most of the worlds coffee supply comes from two varieties of coffee beans: arabica and robusta. Robusta beans are more resistant to the effects of an overheating planet and are regarded as potential solutions to changing weather patterns.

However, it is believed that this coming El Nino could affect both types of beans.

Why does this years El Nino matter?

One of the last times we had a strong El Nino event was in 2016. That year became the hottest in recorded history at the time (2020 since tied it), and, as reported by Reuters, scientists say this new El Nino event looks particularly worrying. It may once again bring the planet to the brink of breaking more heat records.

Coffee production relies on stable, mild, and predictable weather patterns.

Coffee is a demanding and highly sensitive commodity, and coffee crops respond dramatically to weather variations, Nyagoy Nyongo, Fairtrades Global CEO, told Columbia Climate School in 2021.

Coffee prices today are still recovering after recent drought hit parts of South America.

This years El Nino threatens to radically disrupt weather patterns around the globe, affecting some of the worlds most important coffee-producing countries, such as Brazil, Vietnam, and Colombia.

If this happens, coffee lovers could pay more for their favorite beverage.

Whats being done to prepare coffee for El Nino?

Experts are working on making coffee crops more resistant to heat and drought.

Perhaps the most effective solution is to produce cell-cultured coffee, which makes coffee by extracting DNA from the coffee leaf and bioprinting the cells onto scaffolds. Last year Foodnavigator reported that one company was already working on this.

Regardless, considering how coffee is currently produced and the way human activities have been changing our climate, it is important to understand that coffee is increasingly becoming a high-risk investment, Christian Bunn, a scientist at the Alliance of Bioversity International and CIAT, told the Washington Post.

Independent of individual events, the entire [coffee] sector is highly concerned about climate change, he said.

Join our free newsletter for cool news and cool tips that make it easy to help yourself while helping the planet.
Scene of one of the blasts (@AJKoski16)

Explosive devices were detonated outside three businesses in Washington DC in the early hours of Sunday, according to law enforcement.

The devices exploded outside stores in the northeast of the capital within 15 minutes of each other, according to the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD).

The first attack occurred around 4.30am inside an ATM attached to the Truist Bank on the 2300 block of Washington Place.

Moments later, another device was detonated outside of a Nike store in the 700 block of H Street.

Around 4.45am, a nearby Safeway grocery store was hit with a Molotov cocktail-style object, police said.

The businesses were closed at the time of the incident and no one was injured.

Pictures shared by DC resident Amanda Koski on Twitter showed damage to the targeted structures and shattered windows. Ms Koski said that law enforcement closed several streets while they investigated the incident.

I have no idea how anyone on this street is sleeping, Ms Koski tweeted.

Loud explosion noise heard at 4:30am here at Rhode Island Row/Ave Metro Stop. Truist bank glass is shattered and a fireman says there was an incident at the bank MPD is now blocking off the street @PoPville pic.twitter.com/wA0vPz6YHi  Amanda Koski (@AJKoski16) July 2, 2023

So insane. Im on the 50 side and the boom was terrifying. I can only imagine how scary this was for the units right above it, LaNita King also shared on the social media platform.

Law enforcement are hunting for the suspects and the vehicle they used to flee the scenes.

MPD said in a statement that the perpetrators appeared to have targeted commercial establishments, but not members of the public.

MPD and @ATFWashington seek the public's assistance in identifying suspects and a vehicle in reference to Destruction of Property offenses that occurred on Sunday, July 2, 2023, in the District.



Have info? Call (202) 727-9099/text 50411



Release: https://t.co/IvecJKuAeI pic.twitter.com/xKhxQ3xkHO  DC Police Department (@DCPoliceDept) July 2, 2023

MPD and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives are offering a $20,000 reward for information that leads to the arrests of the individuals behind the Sunday attacks.

No vehicle description, suspect lookout or motive have been released as of Sunday evening.

Anyone with information is asked to contact MPD detectives at (202) 727-9099.
Chinese Minister of Agriculture and Rural Affairs Tang Renjian (R) addresses a photo exhibition featuring China's agricultural and rural development in recent years in Rome, Italy, June 30, 2023. The exhibition was held late Friday in Rome. Hosted by China's Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, the exhibition illustrated the latest changes and progress in China's agricultural and rural areas with abundant photos covering major themes such as poverty eradication, rural revitalization, digital farming, South-South and triangular cooperation, and globally important agricultural heritage systems. (Xinhua/Jin Mamengni)

ROME, July 1 (Xinhua) -- A photo exhibition featuring China's agricultural and rural development in recent years was held late Friday in Rome.

Hosted by China's Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, the exhibition illustrated the latest changes and progress in China's agricultural and rural areas with abundant photos covering major themes such as poverty eradication, rural revitalization, digital farming, South-South and triangular cooperation, and globally important agricultural heritage systems.

Speaking at Friday's reception at the Permanent Representation of China to United Nations Agencies for Food and Agriculture, Chinese Minister of Agriculture and Rural Affairs Tang Renjian noted that the Chinese government has provided considerable agricultural technical assistance to developing countries, particularly to the least developed countries.

China has donated 130 million U.S. dollars to the UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) since 2009, exclusively for South-South and triangular cooperation, Tang said.

More than 300 Chinese specialists in host countries have shared agricultural technology and poverty eradication experience to local people, he added.

The event gathered more than 200 attendees, including leaders from UN agencies such as FAO, World Food Programme and the International Fund for Agricultural Development, as well as agricultural ministers and representatives from over 100 countries. 

People visit a photo exhibition featuring China's agricultural and rural development in recent years in Rome, Italy, June 30, 2023. The exhibition was held late Friday in Rome. Hosted by China's Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, the exhibition illustrated the latest changes and progress in China's agricultural and rural areas with abundant photos covering major themes such as poverty eradication, rural revitalization, digital farming, South-South and triangular cooperation, and globally important agricultural heritage systems. (Xinhua/Jin Mamengni)

People visit a photo exhibition featuring China's agricultural and rural development in recent years in Rome, Italy, June 30, 2023. The exhibition was held late Friday in Rome. Hosted by China's Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, the exhibition illustrated the latest changes and progress in China's agricultural and rural areas with abundant photos covering major themes such as poverty eradication, rural revitalization, digital farming, South-South and triangular cooperation, and globally important agricultural heritage systems. (Xinhua/Jin Mamengni)

People visit a photo exhibition featuring China's agricultural and rural development in recent years in Rome, Italy, June 30, 2023. The exhibition was held late Friday in Rome. Hosted by China's Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, the exhibition illustrated the latest changes and progress in China's agricultural and rural areas with abundant photos covering major themes such as poverty eradication, rural revitalization, digital farming, South-South and triangular cooperation, and globally important agricultural heritage systems. (Xinhua/Jin Mamengni)

People visit a photo exhibition featuring China's agricultural and rural development in recent years in Rome, Italy, June 30, 2023. The exhibition was held late Friday in Rome. Hosted by China's Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, the exhibition illustrated the latest changes and progress in China's agricultural and rural areas with abundant photos covering major themes such as poverty eradication, rural revitalization, digital farming, South-South and triangular cooperation, and globally important agricultural heritage systems. (Xinhua/Jin Mamengni)
Neyizhpapa talked about the role of aviation in operations at sea in the fight against Russian troops

Ukraine needs Western F-16 fighters to conduct operations at sea in the fight against Russian invasion forces, Vice Admiral Oleksiy Neyizhpapa, Commander of the Ukrainian Navy, said in an interview with Ukrainian military media outlet ArmyInform on July 2.

"The war is ongoing, and the enemy currently has air superiority in that part of the Black Sea," he explained.

Read also: Ukrainian pilots could be trained to fly F-16 fighters in four months, Reznikov believes

"Therefore, we need the same functional Western F-16 fighters  not only for successful operations on land but also at sea."

Vice Adm. Neyizhpapa emphasized that since the beginning of the full-scale Russian invasion, the potential of the Ukrainian Navy had increased significantly, thanks to weapons provided by Ukraines Western partners.

Read also: Zelenskyy reproaches partners for delaying training of Ukrainian pilots on F-16 fighter jets

He added that naval aviation had been involved in combat operations with the entire bulk of the military since the first days of Russia's all-out war against Ukraine, citing the work of Bayraktar attack drones as an example.

"They worked in Kherson and Mykolaiv oblasts both over land and at sea," he said.

"They have destroyed several Raptor patrol boats and even a helicopter that was shot down by our pilots when it landed on Snake Island, when it was trying to deliver an enemy landing party there.

He also spoke about a Navy helicopter squadron designed to support Ukrainian marines, utilizing U.S.-made Sikorsky Sea King helicopters.

These are the first non-Soviet helicopters in the Ukrainian Navy," the vice admiral stated.

"So when people ask how quickly our pilots can master Western models, here's an example: naval aviation pilots did it very quickly. And I believe that the rest of the pilots from the Air Force will also quickly master the aircraft of our partners and will continue to use them successfully."

Fighter jet coalition: When will Ukraine receive F-16s?

In May, Western partners began discussing a coalition to provide Ukraine with F-16 fighter jets, which Kyiv had long been asking for.

Read also: Netherlands, France, UK support fighter coalition says Zelenskyy

The first step is to train Ukrainian pilots. On May 19, UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak announced that his country, the United States, the Netherlands, Belgium, and Denmark had agreed to participate in training Ukrainian pilots on Western fighter jets, with the UK in particular promising that training would start in the summer of 2023.

According to U.S. geopolitical news outlet Foreign Policy, the UK was earmarked to train about 20 Ukrainian pilots on the F-16. According to media reports, Denmark would be ready to begin training pilots in August, while the Netherlands expressed its readiness to start training in a few months.

As of June 27, the Ukrainian Air Force said that Ukrainian training on the F-16 had not yet started.

Similarly, it has not yet been announced when and how many fighter jets Ukraine will receive.

The White House said Ukraines partner nations would determine in the coming months when Ukraine will receive fighter aircraft, from whom, and how many.

Read also: Denmark can train six Ukrainian F-16 pilots at a time

Defense Minister Oleksii Reznikov said the F-16s would not arrive by the end of 2023, although the Defense Ministry had previously hoped they would come this fall.

U.S. news website Politico has reported that Ukraine may not receive its first F-16 fighter jets until early 2024.

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
While working in a field in Spain, a farmer stumbled on a massive ancient Roman artifact, officials said. Millennia later, the artifact is still relevant.

The farmer was uprooting an olive tree in a grove near Baena and accidentally uncovered the huge stone relic, El Dia de Cordoba reported on July 1.

The artifact has a roughly circular shape, a photo shared by the Baena Town Hall shows. At least three large grooves, possibly cracks, run down its side. A circular track is carved into the top, giving it the appearance of an upside-down mushroom with its stalk cut too short.

The worn stone is an ancient Roman mill used for pressing olives into olive oil, town officials said in a news release.

These types of olive oil mills, known as a trapetum, originated in Greece and spread throughout the ancient Roman empire, El Dia de Cordoba reported. Workers ground the olives with a second piece that fit inside the bowl-like groove and could be rotated with a long stick.

The oil mill is about 3 feet tall and about 4 feet across, Diario Cordoba reported. It weighs about 6,600 pounds.

Archaeologist Jose Antonio Morena said the mill stone was about 2,000 years old, the outlet reported. The relic indicates that Baenas olive groves were already being cultivated, harvested and exported during ancient Roman times, Morena said.

Millennia later, Baena still thrives on olive oil production, according to the town hall. The city is surrounded by olive groves and even boasts an Olive Grove and Oil Museum dedicated to the crops local history.

The oil mill will be restored, analyzed and moved to the Municipal Historical Museum of Baena, town officials said.

Baena is in Cordoba province and about 230 miles southwest of Madrid.

Google Translate was used to translate the news release from and website of the Baena Town Hall and articles from El Dia de Cordoba and Diario Cordoba.

Someone buried treasure and vanished. Archaeologists just found it 3,000 years later

Fragile ship that sank in storm 2,500 years ago needs to be rescued  piece by piece

Secret structure was likely hidden in Viking-age kings massive burial mound in Norway
The father and son who died on the Titan almost didn't make it in time due to flight problems, report says

Suleman and Shahzada Dawood were both on the Titan sub that imploded. Reuters

Shahzada Dawood and his son Suleman were two of the five people on the Titan submersible.

The family nearly missed the mothership's departure due to flight problems, per The New York Times.

Shahzada's wife Christine told the Times she "obviously" wishes they had missed the trip.

Shahzada Dawood and his son Suleman almost missed their trip on the Titan submersible after one flight was canceled and another was delayed.

Christine Dawood, Shahzada's wife, told The New York Times the family traveled to Toronto on June 14, four days before the mothership departed on its voyage.

A second flight to St. John's, Newfoundland, where OceanGate expeditions departed from, was canceled. Another flight the next day was delayed, leading the family to worry that they could miss their chance to see the Titanic.

"We were actually quite worried, like, oh my god, what if they cancel that flight as well?" Christine Dawood told the Times. "In hindsight, obviously, I wish they did."

The family eventually got to St. John's and boarded the Polar Prince, the ship used by OceanGate to take the Titan out to sea.

Members of the Dawood family have given conflicting stories about how Suleman, 19, ended up on the sub. Christine has said he took her place because he was really wanted to go, while her sister said Suleman was "terrified" but went to bond with his dad on Father's Day.

Christine and their daughter, Alina, stayed on the Polar Prince while Shahzada and Suleman traveled out to the platform where the Titan was waiting.

Christine was told it was normal for communication between the Titan and the ship to be spotty while it was underwater, but she grew more worried as the day went on and a crew member finally told her they no longer knew where the sub was.

In the weeks since the Titan's disappearance and the discovery of debris, emails obtained by Insider, old interviews and insights from former passengers, including journalists, have painted a picture of OceanGate CEO Stockton Rush as someone who sometimes ignored warnings and concerns about the Titan's construction in favor of continuing to operate the expensive voyages to the depths of the ocean.

The sub's implosion is assumed to have killed all five people on board, including Rush, British billionaire Hamish Harding, and Paul-Henry Nargeolet, a veteran diver who had visited the wreckage of the Titanic dozens of times.

Read the original article on Insider
Fears grow for missing Transatlantic sailor in his 60s as his yacht is found drifting with nobody on board

Duncan Lougee ( SWNS)

Fears are growing for a missing Transatlantic sailor in his 60s after his yacht was found drifting with nobody on board.

Duncan Lougee, from Essex, went missing after setting sail from Plymouth at midday on 18 June.

Mr Lougee was due to arrive in Baltimore, Ireland, on 22 June, but there had been no contact since his departure, prompting a search to be launched.

Duncan Lougee is from Essex (Facebook)

The search was called off after the sailors yacht was found off the coast of Cornwall on Thursday. Mr Lougee was not on board, the UK Marine and Coastguard Agency said.

His boat was found 70 miles (113km) north west off Trevose Head.

Mr Lougee, who lived in Dedham near Colchester, was taking part in the single-handed sailing challenge. He has previously completed the same trip successfully and was planning to sail the route via the Isles of Scilly.

He was described as an experienced yacht broker, boat builder and sailor.

The missing Essex resident had undertaken many miles of sailing, including single-handedly crossing the Atlantic Ocean.

The UK Marine & Coastguard Agency said: The search for the yacht Minke and its skipper, who was taking part in the single-handed Jester Challenge, from Plymouth to Baltimore, Ireland, has been stood down.

The yacht was found on 29 June approximately 70 miles north-west off Trevose Head, Cornwall; sadly the skipper was not on the vessel.

It is unclear in what condition the missing vessel was found in.

Duncan Lougee was decribed as an experienced sailor (Facebook)

A spokesman for Devon and Cornwall police confirmed Mr Lougee remains missing.

They added: The Minke is due to be brought to shore and Coastguard will continue searches in the area.

Mr Lougees next of kin has been informed of the latest developments, Devon and Cornwall police said.

The sailor was last seen around Falmouth Bay near the Helford River at around 2pm on Monday, June 19.

A Facebook post described Mr Lougees family as frantic. It said: On behalf of the family, please look out for Duncan Lougee who has been missing at sea off the south coast since 18 June.

Any information, no matter how seemingly insignificant, is desperately needed.

As you can imagine, his family are frantic.

Mr Lougee was a director for yacht broker firm Clarke and Carter. A spokesperson for the company said they are deeply concerned for Mr Lougees wellbeing.

On behalf of the entire yachting community here in Suffolk, we would like to express our huge gratitude to the authorities for their ongoing search, the statement said.

Our priority at this time is supporting Duncans family.
A camp for people internally displaced by Sudan's war, in al-Suwar near Wad Madani (-)

Fierce fighting between the forces of rival generals shook the Sudanese capital Khartoum on Sunday as disease and malnutrition threatened the rising number of displaced.

Khartoum residents said they were shaken awake by warplanes and "violent fighting" between forces loyal to army chief Abdel Fattah al-Burhan and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF).

Witnesses told AFP a police base and the state television building in the capital's northwest were under attack by the RSF, who said they had shot down an army MiG fighter.

In central Khartoum, others saw "scores of RSF vehicles" driving towards the vicinity of "the Armoured Corps".

Since April 15, the war between Burhan and his former deputy, RSF commander Mohamed Hamdan Daglo, has killed nearly 3,000 people and displaced 2.2 million within the country, with another 645,000 fleeing across borders, according to the International Organization for Migration.

"The situation is grave," the medical charity Doctors Without Borders (MSF) said in a statement detailing the hardships of displaced Sudanese stuck in nine camps in White Nile State which borders South Sudan.

In addition to Khartoum, the worst fighting has been in the western region of Darfur where residents, as well as the United Nations, United States and others, say civilians have been targeted and killed for their ethnicity by the RSF and allied Arab militias.

The death toll is believed to be much higher than recorded, as the World Health Organization says about two-thirds of health facilities are "out of service" in combat-affected areas.

Many injured people are unable to reach hospitals, and bodies lie rotting in the streets of Khartoum and Darfur.

A record 25 million people in Sudan need humanitarian aid and protection, the UN says.

"Hundreds of thousands of people, most of them women and children", pack camps that stretch out from the south of Khartoum all the way to the border with South Sudan, MSF said.

"There are suspected cases of measles, and malnutrition among children has become a vital health emergency.

"From June 6 to 7 we treated 223 children with suspected measles, 72 were hospitalised and 13 have died," MSF said.

The war has smashed the country's already fragile infrastructure, leaving residents short of water and electricity in the oppressive summer heat.

Numerous ceasefires, including some negotiated by the United States and Saudi Arabia, have failed to hold.

Fighting continued during the just ended Eid al-Adha holiday for which the warring sides announced separate unilateral truces.

- Sexual abuse -

The worsening situation in Darfur is a bleak reminder of the region's painful history.

In 2003, former strongman Omar al-Bashir armed and unleashed the RSF's predecessor, the Janjaweed militia, against Darfur's non-Arab ethnic minorities in violence that killed more than 300,000 people and displaced 2.5 million.

The International Criminal Court charged Bashir and others with genocide, crimes against humanity and war crimes.

A UN official has warned of possible new "crimes against humanity" in the current fighting in Darfur.

Dozens of women have been sexually abused in Darfur and elsewhere, a government unit monitoring such offences has said.

In Nyala, the capital of South Darfur, at least 25 "conflict-related sexual assaults" were recorded, in addition to 21 in West Darfur capital El Geneina and 42 in Khartoum.

Most survivors in Khartoum, and "all in Nyala and Geneina" identified the perpetrators as RSF fighters, the unit said.

In early June, Darfur governor and ex-rebel leader Mini Minawi, who is now close to the army, declared Darfur a "disaster zone".

Aid organisations are repeating their appeals to the warring sides to open up secure corridors so they can reach the injured and those displaced by the fighting.

These appeals have taken on increased urgency with the start of the rainy season in Sudan, which is usually accompanied by floods that bring water-borne diseases.

bur/hkb/srm
Fire intentionally set at north Charlotte home, CFD says

A house was intentionally set on fire in northeast Charlotte on Saturday, according to the Charlotte Fire Department.

Firefighters were called to a house on Anderson Street for a fire around 12:14 p.m. on Saturday afternoon.

ALSO READ: Fire intentionally set at vacant house, Mooresville fire marshal says

The department controlled the fire in 10 minutes and reported no injuries.

CFD investigators say the fire was intentionally set and estimate the fire loss to be $1,500.

One person and a dog have been displaced, and they are getting help from the Red Cross.

This is a developing story; check out wsoctv.com for updates.

(WATCH BELOW: Fort Hood soldier killed in boating accident, 5th soldier death on post since May)
A board certified Orlando area urologist performed a vasectomy on the right side of a patient. But, a state complaint says, Kissimmees Dr. Dilipkumar Patel was supposed to do the vasectomy on the patients left side.

According to Patels profile, the Florida Department of Health administrative complaint is the first against him since being licensed on Feb. 16, 1982. The American Board of Urology says Patel has been board certified since 1983.

Dr. Patel returned neither a phone message left with his office by a Herald reporter nor an email to the address on his Florida Department of Health profile.

READ MORE: A Florida doctor with two convictions involving sexual misconduct still has his license

A vasectomy blocks the vas deferens, the tubes that are the highway for sperm between the testes and penis. The University of Virginia Department of Urology describes the Conventional Approach to a vasectomy:

One small cut will be made in the skin on each side of the scrotum. The vas deferens will be pulled through the openings. The tubes will then be cut. A small piece of the tubes may also be removed. The ends of the tube will be sealed off with stitches, clips, or an electrical pulse. The vas deferens will then be placed back into the scrotum. The incision will be closed with stitches.

READ MORE: A Miami doctor mightve prescribed opioids without examination, state complaint says

The complaint says on June 10, 2022, Patel was supposed to perform a vasectomy on the left side of a 51-year-old man who had a vasectomy on his right side done by a different doctor.

During the procedure, [Patel] conducted a vasectomy of the right side as opposed to the left side, the complaint said. A few hours following the procesure, [Patel} noticed the error and notified (the patient) that he had done a vasectomy of the right side instead of the left.
Jennifer Vidales struggled with English in the second grade, when she began attending Desert Springs Elementary School in Nampa after transferring mid-school year. With little communication and no collaboration with her parents, the Villavue School District placed Vidales in an English Learner class, she said, even though she spoke English fluently.

Vidales, now 19, said its hard not to think that she was kept in the English Learner program solely because shes Latina.

The only reason I would be in that class was because of how I looked, she told the Idaho Statesman by phone.

Vallivue School District spokesperson Joey Palmer by email said an English-speaking student in an English Learner classroom is an extreme rarity, and that something must have been amiss somewhere in that process.

But according to a recent report by Bluum, an Idaho-based nonprofit charter school advocacy group, Vidales was just one of many students over the years who said they were misplaced in such classes. Bluum interviewed 45 Latino parents, several of whom reported schools making assumptions about English fluency and basing English Learner placements solely on surnames.

Vidales needed extra help in English, but not the type of help that was offered in the English Learner program, she said. Her English skills never improved, and she missed traditional English lessons and fell further behind from her peers.

All I knew was English growing up, Vidales said, though she knew just enough Spanish to communicate with her grandmother. I guess their assumption was that I needed help learning English, or that I was struggling between Spanish and English. Either way, that wasnt the case.

EL programs can hurt chance at academic success

Experts and studies have concluded that without the proper resources, placement in English Learner classes can prove detrimental to academic performance.

It is difficult to be successful in the English Learner Program, according to a Regis University 2018 study. English learners achieve less in class than their English-speaking peers, in part because their schools have often failed to provide the accommodations they need. National studies have also shown that students in English learners are often misidentified as students with learning disabilities and placed in special education programs.

The students would be missing something else thats going on in the classroom during that time when theyre pulled out for language support, which can be problematic, said Janine Darragh, a University of Idaho professor who specializes in English as a Second Language programs. And engagement and academic ability increase by working at a challenging level.

Being misplaced in an English Learner program can also have emotional impacts on students, Darragh told the Statesman by phone. Students like Vidales may experience identity issues and feel alienated from their peers, she said.

Typically students in high school English Learner programs are not placed on a college track, Darragh added, which would ensure that theyre passing courses required for college admissions.

They potentially would be missing course requirements for admittance to colleges, she said. I think it could impact their choices and opportunities for post-secondary options.

How Idaho students enter English Learner program

The State Department of Education defines students in the English Learner program as those whose native language is a language other than English and whose difficulties with English could impact their ability to succeed academically.

Idaho schools have 18,000 students in English Learner programs. Around 80% of those students speak Spanish as a first language, while 20% speak over 100 different languages as their first language, said Maria Puga, State Department of Educations English learner and Title III coordinator.

Idaho has a shortage in teachers with the required English as a new language or bilingual education endorsement, Puga said, which may be part of the reason students like Vidales fall through the cracks. Out of Idahos roughly 19,000 teachers, 225 have a bilingual education certification and 933 have a certification to teach English as a Second Language programs  just 6% of Idahos teachers have the necessary credentials to teach English Learner programs.

Just like the whole state has a shortage, the EL program specifically has a shortage, Puga said. Schools are having to figure out, how do we help support all our students, including our language learners and with limited teaching and/or resources?

Puga said schools are required by state and federal law to go through a long list of requirements, including an at-home questionnaire, an assessment and parent notification.

A home language survey, required by federal law, asks parents what language they speak, what language they speak at home to their children and what languages their children speak. Any languages other than English are flagged in that survey, and those students are monitored in their classes for 30 school days, Puga said.

If teachers notice any of those students struggling with English during that time, they would let an administrator know, and the students would be eligible to take a screening test. If they score at proficient levels, they move forward in their traditional classes. If not, they become eligible for the program.

Obviously we want students to be bilingual or multilingual, Puga said in an interview with the Statesman. The only way that they should move into being screened is if the lack of English is causing issues in the classroom.

The district determines the structure of the English Learner program. Sometimes students are pulled out of class to work with a certified English Learner teacher. Sometimes a certified teacher co-teaches with a traditional educator.

But school districts are required to send letters to parents whose children are placed in the English Learner program. Parents can also opt out of the program. Puga said sometimes parents dont know that they have that right.

Though the process to be placed in the English Learner program is extensive, Puga said mistakes can be made. The district may flag a student for an English Learner class if their parents answered the questionnaire and acknowledged that they speak Spanish or another language, but also speak English and taught their children English.

Vidales said neither she nor her parents remember school administrators offering to have a conversation with them about placing her in the English Learner program.

Do English Learner programs help?

According to the State Department of Education, about 50% of Idahos English Learners are making progress, which means theyre reading, writing and speaking English at grade level.

Desert Springs Elementary, in the Vallivue School District, had 111 students in its English Learner program in spring 2022. The elementary school has 71.7% of their English Learner students making progress. The department website said its 2022 goal was 81%.

But the percentage of students reaching proficiency in the English Learner program is dropping. Last year, only 13% of English Learner students reached proficiency in English  half the rate from two years earlier. In 2020, 26% of students had reached proficiency, and in 2022, 13% reached proficiency.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, many Idaho students fell behind on reading at grade level. Though most students improved after the pandemic and began reading again at their appropriate levels, English Learner program students never recovered.

Vidales, now an Idaho State University student in Pocatello, wants to be a political leader in Idaho. Her experience in elementary school drove her to want to make education more accessible and understandable for students and families like hers. Being in the English Learner program did not properly set Vidales up to be successful as a Latina student in Idaho, she said, and her goal is to push for more college prep classes for Latino students in the state.

Ive come to now realize how much of a disadvantage our Latinx have in Idaho school systems, especially with ESL, and I feel like a lot of them arent given the proper help, even if theyre in that class, she said.





This Idaho school district may OK policy on trans students pronouns in class

1st Latina astronaut to go to space surprised by a Reach for the Stars in Pasco
A worker clears vegetation in the mountains near Lambs Canyon near I-80 on Friday, June 9, 2023. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News

A controversial proposal that first surfaced in the 2023 Utah legislative session is once again being pushed by GOP Salt Lake County Council member Dea Theodore, who contends bush and tree thinning in the Great Salt Lake watershed will reduce the risk of wildfires, boost public safety and increase water yield.

Theodores most recent request implores Gov. Spencer Cox; Utah House Speaker Brad Wilson, R-Kaysville; Senate President Stuart Adams, R-Layton; and Great Salt Lake Commissioner Brian Steed to shepherd a number of strategies, including the establishment of a statewide program to eliminate non-native trees that consume excessive amounts of water and to particularly assess those liabilities in the Jordan River watershed. That water flows into the Great Salt Lake.

In addition, shes requesting the installation of instrumentation equipment that measures results in areas that have been treated and to work with private landowners to advance aspen restoration. Her funding ask is for $100 million a year beginning in 2024 for five years for allocation to the Utah Watershed Restoration Initiative.

My focus and goals are healthy watersheds and their relationship to public safety, she said. We achieve these goals through thoughtful and fact-based discussions, pushing the technology envelope and implementing best management practices.

Scientists have slammed Theodores assertion that vegetation management  including that of conifers  will result in any quantifiable extra water.

In February, the Great Salt Lake Strike Team Report released by the Kem Gardner Institute of Policy at the University of Utah conceded that forests in Utah are overgrown and increase the potential for high intensity wildfires.

But it notes: In the past decade or so a growing body of research has shown both increases and decreases in streamflow following canopy reduction, stressing that the impact of tree thinning to help the worlds eighth largest terminal lake or its tributaries is unclear and would likely to be minimal or could potentially even decrease flows.

Utah Physicians for a Healthy Environment and the John Muir Project, too, recently warned of massive malpractice happening in Utahs forests and said stepped up federal and state efforts to log or otherwise thin forests and landscapes is something Utah residents should demand be rejected, including the use of chainsaws, prescribed burns and pesticides.

But Theodore remains committed to her assertion that strategic thinning of trees, including non-natives and, yes, conifers, will provide ecological benefits.

Theodore raised the issue of tree thinning at a 2023 legislative caucus session as a way to accomplish a three-tiered mission: improve forest health, decrease wildfire risks and amplify water yield to flow to the Great Salt Lake. The lake dropped to its lowest level in modern recorded history last year, but has since risen five feet because of the states record snowpack.

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The proposal was heartily welcomed by some and heavily criticized by others.

In the caucus meeting, retired federal hydrologist Randy Julander, who worked 38 years in Utahs forests and watersheds, said overgrown landscapes packed with conifer trees steal water from other vegetation vital for healthy ecosystems, adding that proper thinning improves watersheds and is a tool to help increase water availability.

While Julander did not say more active tree thinning will fill the Great Salt Lake, he made it clear that fewer straws in the pond means more water for streamflows if tree thinning is used as a strategic target.

You have to treat the water producing areas, he said. You dont have to treat the whole dang forest but (be) willing to treat the area that is proximal to the stream, the water contributing area of the watershed itself, he told KSL.

Theodore was accused of promoting a myopic approach that sent the wrong message by dismissing other conservation efforts to manage water in the midst of Utahs drought.

The buzz about tree thinning

Tree thinning is simultaneously endorsed, controversial and complicated, hailed by some experts who say it improves watershed health in the reduction of wildfires and the number of water-sucking vegetation that contribute to poor landscapes. Others contend the landscapes should be left alone.

Removal of standing trees or brush for landscape management takes many forms, including mechanical means like chainsaws, heavy chains, bull hogs (which mulch trees and bushes), or prescribed burns and chemical treatments.

The amount of trees or brush that get the ax is contingent on resource management plans by government agencies, funding, impact to the environment and projected results. Depending on topography and multiple conditions, some scientists say thinning can impact water availability in an area.

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The Utah Watershed Restoration Initiative, the Utah Geological Survey and the Utah Division of Water Quality are involved in an ongoing study of conifer removal projects of pinyon and juniper in the state and will assess if they are resulting in a higher groundwater table and increased spring or stream flows.

We are measuring streams, springs and shallow groundwater as well as soil moisture, said Tyler Thompson, the initiatives executive director.

Of the roughly 3,800 acres planned for thinning, scientists and researchers are particularly focused on a 1,200-acre cut in the Mud Spring Two treatment area in Juab County.

Hugh Hurlow, senior scientist with the groundwater and wetlands program of the Utah Geological Survey, said he expects some preliminary analysis will begin later this year or into 2024.

The analysis, he said, has deliberately been delayed due to the record wet year in Utah and in the Great Basin region, which received an astounding 253% of normal precipitation that could skew results. The basin stretches from the Sierras on the west to the Wasatch Range in Utah on the east.

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Hurlow pointed to a study in central Oregon covering 12 years of treatment of pinyon and juniper pine that showed significant increases in spring flow and groundwater recharge.

Because of the similarities in topography and climate to central Oregon, Harlow said the Mud Spring Two treatment area may see hydrological benefit.

Im expecting something more like increased local spring flow, increased local soil moisture, that kind of thing and higher local groundwater tables, but far as delivery of extra water out of the watershed, probably not.

Hurlow said he anticipates there will be some study areas that produce measurable results and others that do not.

He added that improved local water yield should not be promoted as a reason to do thinning projects, but rather to improve landscape health such as sagebrush steppe in the Great Basin where pinyon and juniper encroachment harms the imperiled greater sage grouse.

A study by Brigham Young University, Oregon State, the Forest Service and the U.S. Geological Surveys New England Water Science Center found that soils remain wetter longer in the spring after tree thinning in a sagebrush ecosystem, including areas in Utah that include Tooele County.

Managers remove trees to reduce fuel loads and increase cover and density of desirable understory species. Tree expansion decreased, while tree removal by prescribed fire or mechanical means increased the time of available water in springtime, the study said. We found that the time of soil water availability for understory plant growth was increased even 1213 years after tree reduction.

Conversely, tree thinning can result in soil erosion and have the opposite outcome  curtailing or jeopardizing the efficiency of runoff and degrading ecosystem health.

Crews work to trim vegetation in the mountains near Lambs Canyon near I-80 on Friday, June 9, 2023. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News

Watershed health, wildfires and thinning

Theodore, who represents the Wasatch Canyons on the Salt Lake County Council, said the mountains are a fire trap because they are overgrown and have only one way in and out.

Ensuring safe havens from wildfires in the mountainous regions of the Wasatch is of utmost importance as much of the area is at high wildfire risk. Moreover, Little Cottonwood and Millcreek canyons lack secondary escape routes, while Big Cottonwood Canyon only has a seasonal, potentially insufficient route, she said. Given the limited or non-existent escape options, it is vital to create well-planned, thinned or cleared safety areas to save lives, her plea to elected officials states.

The Utah Wildfire Risk Assessment deemed Salt Lake as the county most at risk in the state for wildfires, with nearly 60% of its land at very, very high risk, followed by Davis County with 47% of land in that same category. And that number is from 2018 and excludes the high mountain subdivisions that have sprung up in the five years since.

Like California, some home insurance companies are declining coverage in fire prone areas of the Wasatch Back. The companies are using a wildfire risk mapping system to score a home for its vulnerabilities.

Beyond wildfires, the drought in California led researchers to examine the Sierra basin to take another look at earlier estimates of water consumption by overstocked forests versus less-dense and healthier forests  at both lower elevation forest cover and at higher elevations.

That peer reviewed research, published in eScholarship, cited previous studies to offer: There is substantial consensus that forest thinning above a certain threshold reduces evapotranspiration (ET) and increases runoff.

Elsewhere, Denver has an agreement with the Forest Service to both pitch in $16.5 million over a five-year period to treat upstream forested areas to protect water supplies, as reported by the High Country News.

While critics, including some scientists, have debunked thinning forests as a way to get more water to the Great Salt Lake, efforts in New Mexico like the one involving The Nature Conservancy and the Denver project are designed to protect critical watersheds that supply drinking water  systems that have also been compromised in Utahs towns of Huntington and Stockton.

Most recently, 128 acres were thinned on Salt Lake City lands and 194 acres on U.S. Forest Service lands within the Parleys Creek watershed, targeting oak brush and creating fire breaks to improve wildlife habitat and protect Parleys Creek. The creek supplies 20% of Salt Lake Citys drinking water and is one of five creeks that dump into the Jordan River and flow into the Great Salt Lake.

This project is an important component of Salt Lake Citys overall watershed protection efforts, said Laura Briefer, director of Salt Lake City Department of Public Utilities. Salt Lake Citys drinking water quality is very important to our community. A catastrophic wildfire would pose a significant risk to the citys drinking water quality and supply.

Theodore said her proposal has the support of representatives of 22 of 29 counties in Utah, private landowners and several lawmakers, as well as Mike Styler, who headed up the Utah Department of Natural Resources, is a former legislator and helped develop the Watershed Restoration Initiative into a robust program.

Snow on and around the trees in Big Cottonwood Canyon on Monday, Feb. 27, 2023. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News

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British battleship HMS Irresistible abandoned and sinking, 18 March 1915, during the Battle of Gallipoli.

One of the biggest failures for Great Britain in World War I came at the Dardanelles. During the Gallipoli Campaign, Great Britain and its allies lost 300,000 killed, sick, or wounded while inflicting 255,000 casualties on the Ottomans. And Britain achieved none of its major strategic objectives.

Which is a shame, especially since Britain's own studies and intelligence warned against this exact attack.

The importance of the Dardanelles

You might have heard about the Dardanelles Strait in the current conflict between Russia and Ukraine. Turkey closed the Dardanelles and Bosphorus Straits, preventing any warships not based in the Black Sea from using them. The reason it's a big deal is because the Dardanelles help control all sea traffic into or out of the Black Sea. It's an effective chokepoint.

And it's also a lane directly into Istanbul, Turkey's capital. In World War I, Istanbul was known as Constantinople and was the capital of the Ottoman Empire, a major belligerent. Britain and France decided that an attack through the Dardanelles would allow them to hit the capital and knock the Ottomans out of the war, leaving just Germany and Austria-Hungary to fight.

HMS Canopus fires a salvo from her 12 in (305 mm) guns against Ottoman forts in the Dardanelles.

This attack would become known as the Gallipoli Campaign. The 11 months of intense fighting became one of the most controversial blunders in military history as over 450,000 troops were committed and 300,000 were killed, wounded, captured, or made ill. And in exchange, the Entente Powers captured tiny beachheads and little else.

While the Ottomans suffered more dead, over 56,000 vs. a little over 31,000 for the Entente, they took fewer total casualties. And they successfully prevented the Entente from achieving any of their strategic objectives.

Britain should have known better

The naval and land attacks to force the Dardanelles utterly failed, exactly like the British predicted almost 10 years before.

In 1906, the Ottoman and British Empires both had claim to sections of the Sinai peninsula. The Ottoman Empire claimed control of territory around the town of Taba, then a part of Egypt and the British Empire. The British Empire wasn't particularly worried about the town, but it saw Ottoman expansion in the area as a threat to the Suez Canal. And Britain worried, a lot, about the canal.

The crew of the HMS Grampus cheering the British submarine E11 after a successful raid on Turkish defences at Gallipoli.

The Taba Crisis resolved peacefully, but Britain realized it had no good plan for defending the canal from Ottoman expansion. It started studying the best way to threaten the Ottoman Empire. It came up with the possibility of forcing the Dardanelles and Bosphorus Straits.

The Director of Naval Intelligence put it succinctly: any attempt to send the fleet to Constantinople...without first destroying the forts in the Dardanelles, is greatly to be deprecated.

The Dardanelles Strait had forts lining it, mobile howitzers defending it, and a minelaying ship. Britain's Committee of Imperial Defence met to discuss all their options in 1907 and decided, "the operationon or near the Gallipoli Peninsula would involve great risk, and should not be undertaken if other means of bringing pressure to bear on Turkey were available.

What went wrong?

So, why did Britain do an amphibious operation that it had specifically warned itself against? Because people have stupidly short memories and don't read their memos.

Despite the 1907 conclusion, Britain put together a fleet just eight years later in 1915 to force the straits. And, even better, Britain decided to get through the minefields by having civilian fisherman use their civilian fishing boats to pull them from the water.

When they attempted to force the straits, the modern warships took some damage from the howitzers and a lot from the mines, while the fishing boats took a lot of damage from the howitzers. Three major warships fell to the mines and two battleships were heavily damaged.

Captain Leslie Morshead in a trench at Lone Pine after the battle, looking at Australian and Ottoman dead on the parapet

So the navy commanders pulled back a little and attempted a landing. The hope was that the armies of Britain, France, New Zealand, India, and more would be able to capture or cripple many of the shore defenders on the Gallipoli peninsula.

Yeah, that also failed. But it took longer to fail. So, you know, that's good.

Ultimately, the Entente gambit to knock the Ottoman Empire out of the war. And, bonus, Bulgaria joined the Ottomans and the Central Powers during the campaign, making the overall war even harder for Britain.

On the plus side, Britain did an amazing job of evacuating the survivors.
Former Attorney General Eric Holder on Sunday praised the Supreme Court decisions over voting districts in Alabama and North Carolina.

Holder, who served under former President Obama, told CBSs Margaret Brennan on Face the Nation that the courts decision over congressional districts in Alabama will have an impact beyond its state. Earlier this month, the Supreme Court struck down Alabamas congressional maps and ruled that it likely violates the Voting Rights Act by diminishing the power of Black voters.

That decision will have an impact beyond the state of Alabama. If you look at Georgia, Louisiana, Texas, they also have instances where the lines have been drawn in such a way to dilute the voting power of African Americans, Holder said. And again, inconsistent with the Voting Rights Act. And so I think that you will also see courts rule consistent with the Supreme Courts ruling that those lines will have to be redrawn in those states as well.

Holder also said that the Supreme Courts ruling last week that rejected a bid to give state legislatures sweeping authority in drawing congressional maps and regulating federal elections gave him more confidence that there will be a fair election in 2024.

It makes me a lot more confident that were going to have a fair election come 2024 and that this ridiculous notion of independent state legislature theory will hopefully just go away, Holder said. That was a as fringe a theory as has ever been heard by the United States Supreme Court. The only disappointment I had in that decision is that it was not a nine to zero decision.

The notion of the independent state legislature theory was that courts that  that the legislators had the final say, without any involvement of court review, he added. And thats inconsistent with our notion of checks and balances. It will mean that we will have the ability to go before state courts to look at what legislators and sometimes gerrymandered legislatures are doing with regard to redistricting.

In its ruling, the court declined to endorse the so-called independent state legislature theory advanced by North Carolina Republicans and instead ruled to preserve state courts ability to hear partisan gerrymandering lawsuits in congressional redistricting as well as review other federal election rules set by state legislatures.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
A former OceanGate submersible pilot said the company's Titan vessel was a 'lemon' and not safe to dive, report says

The Titan while in the warehouse. OceanGate

A former OceanGate employee said in 2018 the company's Titan submersible was not safe for diving.

David Lochridge, the company's chief submersible pilot, was fired after raising concerns.

In an email exchange, he told an industry leader the sub was "a lemon," according to The New Yorker.

A former OceanGate employee said in 2018 the company's Titan submersible was a "lemon" and not safe to dive, according to The New Yorker.

The Titan imploded close to the wreckage of the Titanic on June 18, killing all five people on board.

David Lochridge was the company's former director of marine operations and its chief submersible pilot before being fired after raising concerns about OceanGate's testing protocol.

Rob McCallum, a deep-sea-exploration specialist, emailed Lochridge in 2018 to ask how OceanGate CEO Stockton Rush was taking his departure.

"Stockton must be gutted," McCallum told Lochridge. "You were the star player and the only one that gave me a hint of confidence."

Lochridge replied that he would be "taken aback when I tell you what's happening," adding that he would share his assessment of the Titan sub in private but was afraid of retaliation from Rush because of his "influence and money."

"That sub is Not safe to dive," Lochridge said.

"Do you think the sub could be made safe to dive, or is it a complete lemon?" McCallum responded. "You will get a lot of support from people in the industry. Everyone is watching and waiting and quietly shitting their pants."

Lochridge said: "It's a lemon."

"Oh dear," McCallum replied. "Oh dear, oh dear."

Left: The Titan submersible underwater on an active tour. Right: Pieces of the Titan submersible after being recovered. Reuters

In 2018, Lochridge inspected OceanGate's submersible model and found "several critical aspects to be defective or unproven," The New Yorker reported.

He wrote a detailed report about the issues, including concerns about the vessel's carbon-fiber hull, which experts now believe could have been what failed first.

Rush was "furious" following Lochridge's report, the article said, and OceanGate leadership insisted that no hull testing was necessary.

The CEO ignored repeated warnings from inside and outside the company about issues with the vessel and refused to have it classed by an external marine-certification agency, the report said, because he believed it would interfere with innovation.

OceanGate CEO Stockton Rush. Shannon Stapleton/Reuters

When challenged by a friend in 2019, Rush claimed he would shut down his company before operating an unsafe vessel, according to emails obtained by Insider.

Rush was emailing his friend Karl Stanley, an expert in submersibles who had expressed serious concerns to him about the integrity of the Titan after hearing cracking noises on a dive in the Bahamas that year.

"I made it clear after our dive that I will not take nonessential crew, clients, or media in the sub until I am confident that the hull is safe," Rush said in his response to Stanley. "As I told you before, I canceled last year's expedition and will cancel this year's, or even shut down the company, before I will operate an unsafe sub."

All five passengers on the Titan, including Rush, were declared dead after the submersible imploded during a June 18 dive to the Titanic shipwreck, 13,000 feet down in the Atlantic Ocean.

Read the original article on Insider
Vodafone and Three announced earlier this month that they would merge in a multi-million pound deal (Getty)

Former Tory leader Sir Iain Duncan Smith has warned the merger between Vodafone and Three is dangerous and risks giving a company with its roots in Communist Party-ruled China a more prominent place in the UKs mobile network.

The former work and pensions secretary and MP for Chingford and Woodford Green said the proposed deal raised serious questions about national security and competition within the UK telecommunications market.

Vodafone and Three, both of which have millions of customers in the UK and Ireland, announced earlier this month that they were joining forces in a multibillion-pound deal they said would create one of Europes biggest 5G networks.

This is a dangerous deal, which it seems is yet another example of how the Communist Party is trying to create a Western dependency on China, Sir Iain told The Independent. Not only does it raise important questions about competition, but it poses risks to our communication networks and personal data.

Three is owned by CK Hutchison, a Hong Kong-listed conglomerate that has been accused of supporting repression in the former British territory, where thousands of residents fled after Chinas implementation of a sweeping national security law used by authorities to crack down on dissent against the regime in Beijing.

Sir Iain is among a number of cross-party MPs to raise concerns about the growing influence of China in the West, and in particular, telecoms companies who have their headquarters there and are operating in the UK.

The government still doesnt seem to understand that Chinese companies can be mandated to hand over their data to Beijing at the drop of a hat, Sir Iain said.

We should be really worried about that. I also think we need to be taking a closer look at who owns these companies, the links between them and the Chinese government and the origins of the money flowing through them.

Sir Iain Duncan Smith says Vodafone and Three merger poses security risk (PA Archive)

Last autumn the government announced that Shenzen-based Huawei technology must be removed from the UKs 5G public networks by the end of 2027, It followed advice from the National Cyber Security Centre and pressure from Washington, which banned equipment made by the company because it posed an unacceptable risk to US national security.

In March, prime minister Rishi Sunak warned that China plans to reshape the world in plans that posed an era-defining challenge for the UK and its allies in the West but dismissed calls for Beijing to be categorised as a threat, something his predecessor Liz Truss pushed for.

The union Unite, which has 1.4 million members, is also campaigning against the merger, which some analysts say could result in job losses and higher prices for consumers who are already being squeezed by the cost of living crisis. The deal has triggered an initial investigation by the Competition and Markets Authority and will be subject to approval under the new National Security and Investment Act.

Gail Cartmail, Unites executive head of operations, said: Instead of idly watching the CK Group cream profits from UK businesses, the government should ask if they are a suitable custodian of British assets.

Another former leader, Liz Truss, has also raised concerns about Chinas influence (PA Wire)

Charlotte Nichols, the Labour MP for Wigan North who sits on the Department for Business and Trade sub-committee on national security, said: Unite the Union has shared research with me that shows this merger would leave sensitive government contracts and the data of millions of UK consumers in the hands of Three, a company whose key leadership have supported repression in Hong Kong and worked hand-in-hand with the Chinese state for decades.

This will be dangerous deal for the UK and I fully support Unites campaign against it.

Other MPs  both Labour and Conservative  have tabled questions to government departments asking what security assessments ministers have made of the proposed merger deal.

Both Three and Vodafone refused to comment but have previously dismissed concerns about security, saying that they work closely with security bureaus in what is a regulated industry.

The Cabinet Office has said it welcomes foreign trade and investment where it supports growth and jobs in the UK, meets our stringent legal and regulatory requirements, and does not compromise our national security.

However, we will not hesitate to use our powers to protect national security where we identify concerns.
A graffiti reading "Police scum from Saint-Soline to Nanterre - do not forget or forgive" on a monument commemorating Holocaust victims and members of the French resistance memorial, Sunday, July 2, 2023 in Paris suburb Nanterre. In Nanterre, a monument commemorating Holocaust victims and members of the French resistance during World War II was defaced with graffiti Sunday, after it has been vandalized Thursday on the margins of a silent march to pay tribute after the police killing of a teenager. (AP Photo/Cara Anna)

PARIS (AP)  The grandmother of the French teenager shot dead by police during a traffic stop pleaded Sunday for rioters to stop after five nights of unrest, while authorities expressed outrage at an attack on a suburban mayors home that injured family members.

The grandmother of 17-year-old Nahel, identified only as Nadia, said in a telephone interview with French news broadcaster BFM TV, Dont break windows, buses ... schools. We want to calm things down.

She said she was angry at the officer who killed her grandson but not at the police in general and expressed faith in the justice system as France faces its worst social upheaval in years. Nahel, whose full name hasn't been disclosed, was buried on Saturday.

The violence appeared to be lessening. Still, the office of Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin said 45,000 police officers would again be deployed in the streets to counter anger over discrimination against people who trace their roots to former French colonies and live in low-income neighborhoods. Nahel is of Algerian descent and was shot in the Paris suburb of Nanterre.

President Emmanuel Macron held a special security meeting Sunday night and plans to meet Monday with the heads of both houses of parliament and Tuesday with the mayors of 220 towns and cities affected by the protests, said a participant in the meeting, who spoke anonymously in line with French government practices. Macron also wants to start a detailed, longer-term assessment of the reasons that led to the unrest, the official said.

Highlighting the seriousness of the rioting, Macron delayed what would have been the first state visit to Germany by a French president in 23 years, which had been scheduled to start Sunday evening.

The interior ministry said police made 78 arrests nationwide Sunday, French media reported, down significantly from 719 arrests the day before. More than 3,000 people have been detained overall following a mass security deployment. Hundreds of police and firefighters have been injured in the violence, although authorities havent said how many protesters have been hurt.

French authorities were appalled on Sunday after a burning car struck the home of the mayor of the Paris suburb of LHay-les-Roses. Several police stations and town halls have been targeted by fires or vandalism in recent days, but such a personal attack on a mayors home is unusual.

Mayor Vincent Jeanbrun said his wife and one of his children were injured in the 1:30 a.m. attack while they slept and he was in the town hall monitoring the violence. Jeanbrun, of the conservative opposition Republicans party, said the attack represented a new stage of horror and ignominy in the unrest.

Regional prosecutor Stephane Hardouin opened an investigation into attempted murder, telling French television that a preliminary investigation suggests the car was meant to ram the house and set it ablaze. He said a flame accelerant was found in a bottle in the car.

Macron has blamed social media for fueling violence. Frances justice minister has warned that young people who share calls for violence on Snapchat or other apps could face prosecution.

The mass police deployment has been welcomed by some frightened residents of targeted neighborhoods, but it has further frustrated those who see police behavior as the core of the crisis.

On a public square in Nanterre, a young man of Senegalese descent said France would learn little from the latest unrest. Faiez Njai said of police: Theyre playing on our fears, saying that If you dont listen to us,  and then he pointed a finger at his temple and fired.

Video of the killing showed two officers at the window of the car, one with his gun pointed at the driver. As the teenager pulled forward, the officer fired once through the windshield. The officer accused of killing Nahel was given a preliminary charge of voluntary homicide.

Thirteen people who didnt comply with traffic stops were fatally shot by French police last year, and three this year, prompting demands for more accountability.

Nahel M.s death first reflects the rules and practices for how police officers use weapons during roadside checks and, more broadly, the flawed relations between the police and young people from working-class neighborhoods, the newspaper Le Monde said in an editorial on Saturday.

Amid the unrest, a World War II monument in Nanterre commemorating Holocaust victims and members of the French Resistance was vandalized on the sidelines of a silent march Thursday to pay tribute to Nahel. The slogans included Dont forgive or forget and Police, rapists, assassins. The European Jewish Congress denounced the vandalism as a shameful act of disrespect for the memory of the victims of the Holocaust.

Life in some parts of France went on as usual. In the capital, tourists thronged to the Eiffel Tower, where workers set up a clock counting down to next years Paris Olympics. A short walk from Nanterre, a shopping mall bustled Sunday with customers from all walks of life. But in the empty square where Nahel was shot, someone had painted The police kill on a bench.

At the foot of a bridge near the Eiffel Tower where generations of couples have attached padlocks to symbolize lasting love, a Senegalese man selling cheap locks and keys shook his head when asked if Nahels killing and the ensuing violence would change anything.

I doubt it, he said, giving only his first name, Demba, for fear of retaliation. The discrimination is too profound.

___

Anna reported from Nanterre. Jade le Deley in Clichy-sous-Bois, France; Angela Charlton in Paris; Jocelyn Noveck in New York; and Helena Alves in Paris contributed.
(Bloomberg) -- Tensions abated slightly in France during a fifth night of unrest as authorities sought to contain the fallout from the killing of a teenager thats reignited debate about racism and inequality.

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The riots and looting, which have drawn comparisons with Americas reaction to the murder of George Floyd in 2020, have become a moment of reckoning for the country which has experienced repeated protests in recent years over such issues as pension reforms and the higher cost of living.

President Emmanuel Macron has called a meeting with Prime Minister Elisabeth Borne and other ministers later Sunday to discuss the situation.

Amid a heavy police presence nationwide, some 719 people were arrested overnight, down from more than 1,300 the night before, according to the government. Authorities deployed 45,000 police, special brigades and armed vehicles on streets that have been overrun with youths setting fires and attacking officers, public buildings and shops.

While Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin wrote on Twitter of a calmer night, clashes still occurred in cities like Marseille in a sign that the crisis isnt over.

Were not crying victory, Laurent Nunez, Paris police commissioner, said in an interview on BFM TV. Officers deployed along the Champs-Elysees headed off plans for riots that had appeared on social media, he said, adding that special attention was also being paid to shopping centers that are being targeted by delinquents.

Politicians are rallying to condemn one attack in particular, the ramming and burning of a car at the home of the mayor of LHay-les-Roses, a suburb of Paris. Stephane Hardouin, a public prosecutor, said authorities were investigating attempted murder after the mayors partner and two young children escaped the house through a back door.

Borne and Darmanin visited the town Sunday. Well continue to bring order as quickly as possible, Borne said. No mayor will be left alone.

The unrest poses a political risk for Macron, who canceled a state visit to Germany that was supposed to start Sunday. Macron and Justice Minister Eric Dupond-Moretti have called on parents and social media companies to help bring an end to the violence.

The economic costs of the unrest are also mounting. On Saturday, Finance Minister Bruno Le Maire said some 10 shopping malls, more than 200 supermarkets, 250 tobacco shops and 250 bank outlets had been attacked or looted the previous night.

All types of businesses have been targeted, especially those with valuable merchandise, Jean-Luc Chauvin, head of the Chamber of Commerce of Aix Marseille Provence, told France Info. A first estimate by insurers put damages at more than 100 million ($109 million), a number that will undoubtedly rise, he said.

LVMH fashion label Celine canceled its menswear show scheduled for Sunday in Paris while authorities curtailed public transport in some cities and pulled cultural events like concerts.

A private funeral was held Saturday at a mosque in Nanterre for the 17-year-old boy of North African descent called Nahel who was shot Tuesday at close range in a car.

The officer who fired the shot has been charged with murder and is in pre-trial detention. Laurent-Franck Lienard, a lawyer for the officer, told Europe 1 radio that the policeman believed he needed to shoot.

Policing Practices

Nahels mother, identified only as Mounia, said in an interview with France 5 that she didnt blame the police force. I blame one person, the one who took my sons life, she said.

Frances unrest harks back to 2005 when weeks of riots followed the death of two boys in an electricity substation after a police chase. It has thrown a spotlight on French policing practices as well as long-simmering tensions in poorer suburbs.

In 2005, the French government declared a state of emergency that lasted close to two months, a move Macron has so far avoided.

--With assistance from William Horobin, Ania Nussbaum and Richard Bravo.

(Updates from third paragraph.)

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Fresno family spends over 30% of its income on housing. Would rent control change that?

After a long and difficult search for housing, Juana Iris Meza and her family moved into a three-bedroom rental unit, a condominium on Shields Avenue west of Highway 99 in Fresno.

While they needed the bigger space for their family of six, they experienced a steep increase in their monthly rental costs. The family used to pay $560 for a one-bedroom apartment. Now, they pay $1,350.

But Meza said she is worried their rent could go up again. And with an annual income of $45,000 - Meza, 38, works part-time for an education nonprofit, and her husband is a plumber - the family cant afford any more rent increases.

If they raise my rent $100 more, she said, I dont think Ill be able to pay.

Like thousands of Fresno households, the Meza family is rent-burdened, meaning they spend over 30% of their income on housing. That leaves little money for other essentials, like food and transportation. Community-based organizations, advocates and renters say this is why its time for the city of Fresno implement a rent control policy to help protect residents.

According to the Urban Institute, rent control laws aim to maintain existing affordable housing and limit disruptions caused by rapid rent increases. In 2020, California implemented the Tenant Protection Act, a statewide rent control that caps rent increases at 5%, plus the local consumer price index, or 10%, whichever is lower. (Local governments can put restrictions into place, and a number of California cities have already done so.)

In Fresno, which has seen some of the highest rent spikes nationwide in recent years, some are calling for additional measures. They want an annual rent cap at 3%, plus the creation of a Rental Mediation Board to address eviction notices, retaliation cases and rent hikes above the allowable increase. While they say it would strengthen local tenant protections, city leaders say the policy could discourage further housing development in Fresno.

Meza supports the rent control proposal because, she said, they can barely make ends meet as it is. If rent prices keep going up, she will consider moving in with another family or leaving Fresno altogether for a more affordable location.

How are they going to keep raising our rent, she said, if our wages have been stagnant for years?

Over half of Fresno rental households are cost-burdened

A Fresno Bee analysis of the U.S. Census Bureaus 2021 American Community Survey data found that 52% of all Fresno renting households, or 44,386 of 84,164, spend over a third of their income on rent.

The burden is even higher on the most vulnerable in the community: 92% of the 18,259 households that earn less than $20,000 annually are rent-burdened. As income goes up, however, the percentage of people that are cost-burdened goes down: 27.5% of Fresnans that earn between $50,000 to $75,000 are cost-burdened.

A coalition of unhoused, youth, families, and faith leaders gather outside Fresno City Hall for a rally urging council members and the mayor to address the housing crisis, including rent control and tenant protections and pass immediate, long-term housing solutions, on Thursday, April 27, 2023.

During an April rally at Fresno City Hall, community groups and residents called for the city to include tenant protections such as rent control in the 2023-24 budget planning decisions.

Then, during a Fresno City Council meeting last week, a few dozen organizers and community members used public comment at city hall to express their disappointment that the city didnt adopt rent control during the budget cycle.

Many Fresno renter households are one paycheck away, one emergency away, from being homeless, said Camila Rivera, a campaign coordinator for Power California and member of the Fresno Housing Coalition, addressing the council. We need you all to step up now.

The Fresno United for Rent Control coalition rallied at the Fresno City Councils final budget meeting to call for rent control and better tenant protections on June 21, 2023. The groups chants for rent control in the council chambers was followed by a five-minute recess.

Why some Fresno city leaders say they dont support rent control

City leaders didnt include any specific allocations for rent control in the new budget  but said theyre supporting Fresno renters in other ways.

During a press conference last Thursday announcing the citys adopted fiscal year 2023-24 budget, Fresno Mayor Jerry Dyer responded to the call for rent control and defended his administration and the councils housing initiatives.

He said the city has dispersed $60 million of state and federal funds for rental assistance over the last two years; has initiated the construction of over 3,300 new affordable units  an 1,600% increase compared to the past five years; and has allocated $2 million for the eviction protection program in this years budget.

Sounds to me like were doing everything we can as a city, he said. I feel for the folks that are out there that are facing evictions, but in terms of rent control, I can tell you I dont support that.

Dyer said he has seen rent control in other cities lead to more slums because if landlords are making less money, they have less to invest in their properties for maintenance. He also said rent control could dissuade future development in the city.

A 2019 report by the Urban Institute said rent control is successful in promoting stability and affordability for people in rent-controlled units. The report also said that although empirical research has found some evidence that rent control negatively affects maintenance, its effect on new construction remains speculative.

District 3 Councilmember Miguel Arias said in an interview with The Bee on Wednesday that the mayors logic assumes landlords were investing in the property in the first place.

Its crystal clear that theyre not, he said. Thats why, Arias said, the city had to create the Anti-Slum Enforcement team in 2016 dedicated to holding slumlords accountable to health and safety requirements.

Arias added that hes open to a substantive conversation to explore what rent stabilization could look like in Fresno, but didnt say whether or not he supports rent control. But, he said, one of the challenges in implementing rent control in Fresno is that powerful special interest groups  such as developers, landlords and business associations  oppose the policy.

These groups, he said, have a very clear opposition backed up with campaign contributions to kill rent control before the debate even begins.

In an interview with The Bee on Wednesday, Council President Tyler Maxwell of District 4 said rental costs are only one issue facing renters. In a recent meeting with a group of about 20 women, he said he heard a number of heart-wrenching stories about families experiencing eviction after reporting code violations in their apartment complex.

Over half of the folks mentioned something that wasnt directly related to the price of rent or the cost of rent, he said. It was more about being forcefully removed from where theyre living.

The city, he said, needs to do a better job educating the community about the citys existing programs such as the eviction protection program or tenant relocation program.

When asked whether he would ever put rent control on the agenda during his tenure as council president, Maxwell said the way to address rent prices is through increasing the supply of housing. This councils opinion, he said, is that the most effective way to control rents here in Fresno is getting more developments off the ground.

But Arias said the market alone cant solve the citys housing needs  especially when it comes to affordable housing for the most vulnerable.

We cannot build ourselves out of this problem, he said.

Fresno among last major cities to have no rent control

Karla Martinez, a policy advocate with the Leadership Counsel for Justice and Accountability, one of the organizations in favor of rent control, said the new affordable housing the city is building is great because rent control alone isnt going to solve all our housing issues.

We need more housing, we need more shelters, folks need assistance, she said, and then one tool is rent control with tenant protections to make sure that folks are able to stay housed while implementing these other components.

She disagrees with Dyer that rent control will dissuade new housing development, saying that state law exempts newly constructed apartment buildings, as well as single family homes and condominiums, from rent control ordinances.

If the city doesnt implement rent control soon, Martinez said it could risk an increase in homelessness. A study from the University of California San Francisco published last week found that many Californians experience homelessness primarily because they cannot afford housing.

We are one of the last major cities to not enforce a local rent control in California, she said.

As for Meza, she hopes the city passes some sort of rent control soon, and is worried about what will happen to her family if they dont.

Six-year-old Ryan Meza plays on a game console in his Fresno home. His family is cost-burdened, which means they pay over 30% of their monthly income on rent.

I hope they dont raise my rent, she said, because, if they do, were going to be one more family that goes to live in the street.
BERLIN (Reuters) - Chancellor Olaf Scholz said on Sunday that Germany was watching the unrest in France "with concern".

French President Emmanuel Macron postponed a state visit to Germany that was set to begin Sunday because of turmoil on French streets in the wake of the police shooting of a teenager of North African descent.

Scholz, in an interview with Germany's ARD television, said that, while watching with concern, he was confident that Macron would successfully calm the situation.

"I don't expect that France will become unstable, even if the images of course are very distressing," he said.

(Reporting by Andreas Rinke and Tom Sims; Editing by David Goodman and Editing by Kevin Liffey)
Republicans eager to impeach a Biden administration official have rallied around a new phrase to justify the rarely used move, accusing President Biden and Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas of dereliction of duty.

The term, borrowed from the military, allows a court martial to punish service members who fail to obey orders or carry out their duties.

But experts say the GOPs basis for removing either man from office is an odd fit for impeachment, which requires demonstrating high crimes or misdemeanors.

It sounds quasi-official  it has a sort of military ring to it. But its not as though high crimes and misdemeanors and dereliction of duty go together.  Its not traditionally one of the impeachment concepts that you would find in the panoply of presidential mistakes, said Claire Finkelstein, a law professor at the University of Pennsylvania who specializes in national security law and democratic governance.

Theyre looking for a phrase that will kind of draw people in because it sounds semi-official, but will not actually require them to say something true and correct, like, The President has actually done such and such, she added.

The impeachment resolution for Biden introduced by Rep. Lauren Boebert (R-Colo.) accuses Biden of dereliction of duty and abuses of power in connection with how he has handled the border.

Since his first day in office, President Biden has trampled on the Constitution through his dereliction of duty under Article 2, to take care that the laws be faithfully executed. Instead of enforcing our immigration laws, he has lawlessly ignored them, Boebert said on the House floor this month before Republicans voted to refer the measure to committee.

Each of the four impeachment resolutions targeting Mayorkas similarly accuses him of violating his oath of office by failing to enforce immigration laws.

The House Homeland Security Committee, which has been tasked with an investigation that would be used as the basis for any impeachment effort undertaken by House Judiciary, likewise kicked off its five-step plan with a phase dedicated to reviewing dereliction of duty.

The blatant disregard for the Constitution of the United States, which states that the United States Congress passes the laws and the executive branch executes those laws, is just scratching the surface to the harm Secretary Mayorkass dereliction of duty has done to our country, said Mark Green (R-Tenn.), the committees chairman, in a press conference earlier this month kicking off the formal investigation.

Mayorkass dereliction of duty has placed the safety of Americans second to his own personal agenda, Green added.

For Democrats, the GOP complaints over how the administration is applying  or failing to apply  the laws passed by Congress show the underlying dispute is a policy matter and therefore insufficient grounds for impeachment.

Dereliction of duty is something that they have created out of whole cloth, said Rep. Dan Goldman (D-N.Y.), who served as a lead counsel to Democrats in the first impeachment of former President Trump before being elected to Congress.

It has never been a grounds for impeachment. It is not a high crime and misdemeanor, and it is essentially arguing that they dont like the way that President Biden and Secretary Mayorkas have been handling their jobs, which, unfortunately for them, is the consequence of elections, Goldman said.

Impeachment proceedings have been used four times for a president and once for a cabinet secretary.

There are different interpretations of what constitutes a high crime or misdemeanor, and Finkelstein said while impeachment can be used for bad acts that are not criminal, very often the impeachment charges could also be charged as crimes.

President Biden and Secretary Mayorkas havent violated the law. And I suspect that members of the GOP and Congress know that full well, and so they dont want to use any term that suggests that there may be a legal violation here. And so theyre using this sort of made-up term that has a quasi-military frame to sound vaguely official, but its really nothing that corresponds to what we would understand from the history of impeachment as a high crime and misdemeanor as the framers would have conceived, she said.

The dereliction of duty argument has taken a greater focus in recent weeks amid waning numbers of people arriving at the border. Earlier this year, many in the GOP argued that Mayorkas failed to follow a law that requires perfection at the border to achieve operational control.

Republicans have become more focused on arguing that Biden officials have violated immigration laws, particularly those dealing with detaining and releasing migrants that arrive at the border.

They also see a wave of fentanyl deaths as a failure to secure the border, though the vast majority of fentanyl that enters the U.S. is believed to come through ports of entry.

The Department of Homeland Security has argued Mayorkas has acted within his authority because the U.S. simply doesnt have the capacity to detain every person that seeks to enter the country, while parole laws allow DHS to permit some migrants to enter the U.S. while they await a determination in immigration court as to securing a more permanent legal status. The department has repeatedly encouraged Congress to take action to update immigration laws.

The White House, meanwhile, dismissed Boeberts resolution as staging baseless political stunts.

What you would need in order to move forward with impeachment is some finding that they have violated the law, Goldman said.

So the notion that hes violated his oath of office is just simply saying that he in their view is not following the law, but what it amounts to without any evidence  and they have none  is just a disagreement about how were dealing with the influx of migrants into this country who are largely escaping completely devastated governments [and] catastrophic situations, he said, adding that the Biden administration has tried to deal with that in a humane way.

When asked about the legal underpinnings of dereliction of duty by The Hill, Green pointed to the statutes governing the military and the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ).

The United States is not secure. His job is to secure the United States. Hes failed. Thats a dereliction of his duty, Green said, noting the oath he took when entering West Point.

Mayorkass oath is the same, right? Its not to the geography of America. Its not to the flag. Its to the Constitution, the idea of America and to the way the Constitution orchestrates how the government is to work.

The roots in the Uniform Code of Military Justice could be problematic for making a case.

Neither Biden nor Mayorkas are subject to the UCMJ because theyre both civilians, Finkelstein said. Dereliction of duty as a military term does not apply to the Secretary of Homeland Security, nor does it apply to the president.

Impatience, however, is growing among some in the Republican Party.

Lawmakers have introduced 11 impeachment resolutions for various Biden administration officials in the past two months.

I would hope that it would be this year  and very soon, Boebert told reporters last week.

Rep. Adam Schiff (D-Calif.), who served as an impeachment manager for Trumps first impeachment, dismissed the efforts as another example of Republicans dragging down the institution of Congress.

I am concerned that as they always do, they use a process that is properly applied as a precedent to abuse the process. But this is all about ingratiating yourself among MAGA members and Trump followers and its disgraceful, he said.

Its consuming the time of Congress to keep going through these right-wing exercises designed to gain Trumps favor.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
The Supreme Courts Thursday decision to end race-based affirmative action in higher education except at military academies comes as debates over diversity within the armed forces are raging in Congress.

The striking exception made by the conservative majority court in a 6-3 decision was quickly lambasted by those on the left, with Rep. Jason Crow (D-Colo.), a former Army Ranger, calling the Supreme Courts ruling outright grotesque.

The court is saying diversity shouldnt matter, EXCEPT when deciding who can fight and die for our countryreinforcing the notion that these communities can sacrifice for America but not be full participants in every other way, Crow wrote on Twitter.

But those on the right quickly moved to try to strip the affirmative action carve out as part of a larger effort by GOP lawmakers to end diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) programs in the armed forces  a key goal for Republicans in negotiations on the Defense Departments annual policy bill. The push comes even as military leaders have fought to keep the exception in place.

Senate Armed Services Committee Roger Wicker (R-Miss.) announced Thursday his intention to do away with affirmative action at military academies via the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA).

Wicker said he will offer his legislation  known as the Military Merit, Fairness, and Equality (MERIT) Act and first revealed last month  as an amendment to the NDAA during floor debates in July to bring back fairness to the military.

The initiative seeks to further prohibit our military service academies from engaging in race-based affirmative action, Wicker said Thursday on Twitter.

And on Friday, Rep. Tom Tiffany (R-Wisc.) brought forward a similar measure as an amendment to the Houses draft NDAA. Tiffanys initiative sought to stop the Pentagon from granting preferential treatment to any person or group based in whole or in part on race.

The Supreme Courts ruling did not include military academies as they were not part of the cases put forth before the justices, according to Chief Justice John Roberts.

Roberts also wrote that the military schools had potentially distinct interests in using race as a factor in admissions to the academies.

Yet Justice Sonia Sotomayor, in her dissent on the ruling, said the conservative judges did not exempt other institutions from the ruling that were not part of the cases, including religious colleges.

Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson wrote in her dissent that the court has come to rest on the bottom-line conclusion that racial diversity in higher education is only worth potentially preserving insofar as it might be needed to prepare Black Americans and other underrepresented minorities for success in the bunker, not the boardroom.

Sharp criticisms also quickly came from lawmakers and law experts on the left, who called the exception baffling.

Die for us, but dont enroll in our schools, activist and Georgetown Law adjunct professor Arjun Sethi tweeted of the ruling, calling the military academy immunity the most disturbing part.

Rep. Jamaal Bowman (D-N.Y.) said the ruling shows its fine to explicitly and intentionally send our Black and brown kids off to die, but not explicitly and intentionally give them access to education.

Meanwhile, House Armed Services Committee member Elissa Slotkin (D-Mich.) tweeted that the majority on the court does in fact recognize the inherent importance of a diverse military and that diversity makes our country not only more fair, but more stable and secure  but they refuse to allow our colleges and universities to hold the same values. Its shocking.

Studies have broadly shown that affirmative action policies have helped students from historically marginalized groups get accepted in higher numbers at colleges and universities, with supporters arguing they help institutions better reflect the U.S. population.

Former top military leaders have also argued in favor of it, with 35 such individuals last year  as part of the affirmative action case that was then pending before the Supreme Court  filing an amicus brief asserting that the policy was needed at the military academies for national security.

History has shown that placing a diverse Armed Forces under the command of a homogeneous leadership is a recipe of internal resentment, discord, and violence, the former defense officials, which included two former chairmen of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and eight former service academy superintendents, wrote in the August 2022 brief. By contrast, units that are diverse across all levels are more cohesive, collaborative, and effective.

The retired leaders also emphasized that the group of officers across the military services is far less racially diverse than the pool of enlisted troops. Should that gap grow, it could harm internal morale and engagement with allies and partners, they stated.

Rodney Smolla, the president of Vermont Law and Graduate School, said military leaders have had major sway in keeping affirmative action alive within the military in the past.

He pointed to the Supreme Court case upholding affirmative action at the University of Michigan in 2003, known as Grutter v. Bollinger, which found that the use of affirmative action in the institutions law school admissions practices was constitutional.

As with the most recent court case, retired military officials filed a brief with the 2003 case, referenced in an opinion, that argued in favor of affirmative action.

The lore has always been that a military brief  a brief by many distinguished retired military leaders  had a major impact on the court and may have been one of the reasons that affirmative action survived in that case, Smolla told The Hill.

The Supreme Court has always  in both liberal and conservative epochs  been very deferential to the executive branch and the military and has often permitted things in the national security context that it wouldnt necessarily permit in other contexts, he added.

Whether the military will be able to keep affirmative action alive at military academies is still to be seen. The carve out will be challenged by GOP lawmakers via the NDAA when the House and the Senate return from their current recess on July 10 and pick up debate on the bill.

Republican members of both chambers are also looking to wipe out numerous other DEI programs within the Pentagon, a hot-button issue this year.

The Houses draft version of the bill includes several amendments that would eliminate the Defense Departments chief diversity officer, cut off funding for DEI programs and enforce a review of DEI initiatives.

Republicans have argued that DEI efforts are a distraction to the Pentagon, taking away attention from military readiness, hurting recruitment efforts and spreading divisions within the ranks.

Also up in the air is whether the Republican measures in the House and Senate will be successful.

Wickers MERIT Act is unlikely to be kept in the Senates draft of the NDAA as the chamber is narrowly controlled by Democrats.

Tiffanys measure, meanwhile, could be successfully added to the Republican-controlled Houses defense bill, but later striped out in negotiations with the Senate.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
The contest for the Republican presidential nomination is fully underway, with all eyes turning to the first debate on Aug. 23 in Milwaukee to see who qualifies.

To make the debate stage, candidates must meet a number of criteria set by the Republican National Committee (RNC).

A candidate must register at least 1 percent in at least three national polls or 1 percent in two national polls and in a poll from two of the first four states to vote in the GOP caucuses and primaries  Iowa, New Hampshire, South Carolina and Nevada.

They also must bring in at least 40,000 unique donors, including at least 200 unique donors from 20 or more states and territories. They also must sign a loyalty pledge to support the eventual Republican nominee, a point of contention among some candidates.

Heres what we know so far about the top candidates chances to qualify for the first GOP primary debate in August.

Donald Trump

Trump will meet the criteria for making the stage.

Yet his participation is still a factor.

Trump, the frontrunner for the Republican nomination, has said that he is still deciding whether he wants to participate in the debate hosted by Fox News, which he accuses of unfair treatment.

He also argues any debate without him will be seen by fewer people, and has questioned whether hed just help rivals by showing up.

Trump told Fox News anchor Bret Baier in a recent in a recent interview that he has not made a final decision.

I like to debate, I dont mind it at all, but when youre 40 points up  why would I let them take shots at me, he said, referring to his Republican rivals.

The former president also refused to commit to supporting the eventual nominee regardless of who it is if he does not win the nomination during an interview with conservative radio show host Hugh Hewitt in February. He said his decision to back the nominee would depend on who it is.

Ron DeSantis

The Florida governor, who has placed consistently in second place behind Trump in GOP primary polls, should not have any difficulty meeting the requirements for qualifying for the debate.

He is the only candidate other than Trump who has consistently received double-digit support in polls and brought in $8.2 million in the first 24 hours after he launched his campaign in May. Trump raised $9.5 million during the first month and a half of his campaign, according to The New York Times.

DeSantis has avoided saying specifically if he would support Trump if the former president wins the nomination. He said during a recent event in Tampa that people should respect the process and the peoples decisions.

He later emphasized that he did not avoid the question of whether he would support Trump.

I said, you run this process, you compete, and you respect the outcome of the process. And Ive always said that. And so thats what I said before. Thats what Ill do. I think Im going to be the nominee. But no matter what happens, Im going to work to beat Joe Biden. Thats what you have to do, DeSantis said.

Mike Pence

Former Vice President Pence has most commonly placed in third behind Trump and DeSantis in GOP primary polling and has generally received support in the mid-to-upper single digits, so he should easily meet the polling threshold quickly.

Pence, who joined the race a few weeks ago after months of speculation, has a shorter period of time to meet the fundraising requirements than other candidates, but he has an advantage of widespread name recognition.

He said during a CNN town hall after he kicked off his candidacy that he would back the Republican nominee.

Ive always supported the Republican nominee for president in the United States. And Ill support the Republican nominee in 2024, especially if its me, he said.

Pence had previously said he believes Trumps role in the Jan. 6, 2021, insurrection should disqualify him for office, but he said at the town hall he does not expect Trump to be the nominee. Still, he said he was very confident Republicans will get behind the eventual nominee.

Nikki Haley

Haley, the former ambassador to the United Nations and former South Carolina governor, has polled in the upper echelon of candidates following Trump and DeSantis and will likely meet the polling requirements comfortably.

She became the first major candidate to announce a run against Trump when she launched her candidacy in February and has among the most time of any candidate to meet the donor requirements.

Her campaign told The Hill that Haley has already met the fundraising requirements and will be on the stage for the first debate. The campaign also said Haley will agree to sign the loyalty pledge.

Absolutely irresponsible that Trump, DeSantis, and others wont commit 100% to supporting the Republican nominee. Theres no room for personal vendettas in this battle to save our country, Haley tweeted last month.

Tim Scott

Sen. Tim Scott (R-S.C.) said during an interview on Americas Newsroom on Fox News in early June that he had met the requirements for participating in the debate.

He has consistently received at least a few percentage points of support in polls and reached as high as 10 percent in a South Carolina poll late last month. Scott has been widely successful in fundraising during his Senate campaigns and brought in $2 million in the 24 hours after starting his presidential run.

He indicated during an interview with Neil Cavuto in May that he would support the eventual nominee, saying all the GOP candidates would be better than any Democrat.

A spokesperson for Scotts campaign told The Hill that Scott looks forward to being on the debate stage.

Vivek Ramaswamy

Ramaswamy was virtually unknown before joining the GOP race, but he has risen in the race and generally received at least 1 percent in the polls, if not more.

He has emphasized grassroots funding as the key to success in early-voting states and appears to be on track to meet the fundraising threshold to qualify for the debate. He reported having donations from more than 10,000 donors in the first month of his campaign and from almost 30,000 donors as of early May.

Ramaswamy told Fox News in an interview that he would sign the loyalty pledge but only if all other candidates did too.

What Ill say is, if the other candidates in this race make that pledge, I will stand by and be willing to, because thats a condition for open debate in our own party, he said.

Chris Christie

The former New Jersey governor has positioned himself as a leading opponent of Trump in the race, and his poll numbers appear to be rising recently. He came in third in a New Hampshire poll with 6 percent and placed fourth in a national poll with 5 percent recently.

Christie has also reportedly taken in funding from major GOP donors.

He has attacked the RNCs loyalty pledge, calling it a useless idea during a CNN interview last month, but he said he will do whatever is needed to be on the debate stage.

Still, he said in an ABC News interview he would take the pledge as seriously as Trump during the 2016 GOP presidential primaries, when he said he would not commit to backing the eventual nominee.

ABC reported Wednesday that the RNC will not require candidates to sign the pledge until after they meet the polling and fundraising requirements. The RNC did not return a request from The Hill for confirmation.

Asa Hutchinson

Former Arkansas Gov. Asa Hutchinson (R) has polled closer to the bottom tier of candidates, but he has received 1 or 2 percent in many polls, which could be enough for him to meet the polling threshold.

But Hutchinson has been critical of both the donor requirements and the loyalty pledge. He argued that the 40,000-donor requirement would penalize candidates who are just building up their campaigns while emphasizing online donations, and that some candidates might want to choose other ways to spread their message.

Hutchinson also said he would prefer a different pledge  to not run as a third-party candidate  and reportedly tried to get the RNC to amend the pledge to not count for convicted felons if Trump is found guilty of the charges he is facing. But the RNC refused to amend it.

Larry Elder

Conservative radio talk show host Larry Elder has not been included in many polls, but when he has been, he has registered 1 percent support a few times. The period in which candidates have to meet the polling requirements began Saturday and runs until 48 hours before the debate.

Elder has criticized the debate requirements, calling them onerous in an interview with NewsNation last month. But he said he would work hard to meet the criteria and make the debate stage.

He said the amount a contributor gives can be as low as $1 for them to count toward the donor threshold.

Elder appears to be willing to agree to the loyalty pledge, as a representative for him told Politico that he did not support amending the pledge following Hutchinsons push for reform after Trumps indictment.

Doug Burgum

The North Dakota governor has reached 1 percent a few times in certain national or state polls, but the specific requirements of what types of polls qualify could matter for Burgums prospects of making the debate.

The RNC will only recognize a poll if it is conducted among at least 800 registered likely Republican voters, among other conditions, so his opportunities for qualification could be limited.

Burgums significant personal wealth could be an advantage toward spreading his message and buying ads, but that wealth will not ensure he finds the 40,000 donors he needs. The Grand Forks Herald reported that Burgum is using text messages to sell American flags for $1 for a Fourth of July fundraising drive and is selling other campaign merchandise to get donors.

Burgum said during an interview on Good Morning America shortly after he joined the race that he would support whoever wins the GOP nomination.

Francis Suarez

Suarez is well known in Florida as a two-term mayor of Miami and the son of a former mayor, but he does not currently have much of a national profile. He has much more commonly received 0 percent in polls than 1 percent when he has been included, and he joined the race on the later end in an already crowded field.

Suarez is also taking the $1-donation request approach like some other candidates are, asking visitors to his campaign website for just that amount to get him on the debate stage.

He told Politico in response to Hutchinsons push for the RNC to amend the loyalty pledge that doing so now would be foolish as Trump is presumed innocent until found guilty.

Will Hurd

Former Rep. Will Hurd (R-Texas) will almost certainly not be on the stage for the first debate in August. He is the only candidate to openly declare that he will not sign the loyalty pledge, and he argued political parties should not try to rig who is participating in the debate.

I am not in the business of lying to the American people in order to get a microphone, and Im not going to support Donald Trump, he said. And so I cant honestly say Im going to sign something even if he may or may not be the nominee.

Hurd has generally been polling at 0 percent since he launched his bid late last month.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
GOP Sen. Lindsey Graham was called a 'traitor' and roundly booed as he spoke at a South Carolina rally featuring Trump

Sen. Lindsey Graham of South Carolina speaks during a campaign event for former President Donald Trump in South Caroline on July 1, 2023. Graham was repeatedly booed by the crowd during his remarks. Sean Rayford/Getty Images

Sen. Lindsey Graham was booed on Saturday at a rally that featured former President Donald Trump.

Some of the conservative attendees in the crowd called the South Carolina lawmaker a "traitor."

Trump during his remarks on Saturday said that Graham could help him secure "liberal" votes.

Sen. Lindsey Graham on Saturday tried earnestly to rev up the crowd at a South Carolina rally featuring former President Donald Trump.

But the conservative crowd simply wasn't having it, given the chorus of boos and the shouts of "traitor" that came from many attendees even as Graham  who's backing Trump's 2024 campaign  sought to introduce the ex-president.

Before Graham even reached the podium, the sounds of disapproval roared among the attendees in his home state, with the senator thanking the crowd for their attendance.

"Welcome to Pickens. Thank y'all for coming. Thank you very much. Thank you," he said amid the boos.

"Thank y'all," he added, with seemingly nervous laughter.

Graham ran against then-candidate Donald Trump during the 2016 Republican presidential primaries and was a fierce critic of the longtime businessman during that campaign, but the South Carolina lawmaker later became one of the former president's staunchest allies.

During Trump's White House tenure, Graham backed the then-president's agenda, which included the advancement of conservative jurists.

As a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, Graham played a major role in battling against Democrats during Brett Kavanaugh's Supreme Court confirmation hearings and, as chairman, he successfully shepherded Amy Coney Barrett's nomination to the high court shortly before the 2020 presidential election.

But Graham's relationship with Trump appeared to have unraveled in the immediate aftermath of the January 6, 2021 riot at the US Capitol, when the senator in a speech on the Senate floor reflected on his relationship with the then-president in the past tense.

"Trump and I, we've had a hell of a journey. I hate it to end this way. Oh my god, I hate it. But my point of view is he's been a consequential president," he said at the time.

"All I can say is 'Count me out.' Enough is enough," he added.

But Graham didn't actually end his alliance with Trump.

The senator in February 2021 voted against impeaching Trump for "incitement of insurrection" for the former president's role on January 6. Graham would go on to visit Trump at his Mar-a-Lago club in South Florida that February, extending an olive branch to a man whom he once deemed as unfit to hold the presidency.

During the rally yesterday, Trump tried to boost Graham, telling the crowd that the senator could help him secure "liberal" votes.

"You know, you can make mistakes on occasion. Even Lindsey down here, Senator Lindsey Graham. We love Senator Graham," Trump said.

"I know, it's half-and-half," he continued. "But when I need some of those liberal votes, he's always there to help me get them, okay. We got some pretty liberal people, but he's good."

In March, Trump chided Graham while speaking at Mar-a-Lago, describing the senator as a "progressive."

"We have our progressive senator from South Carolina, Lindsey Graham. He's a progressive, but he's our progressive," the former president said.

Read the original article on Business Insider
Gov. Ron DeSantis announced this week that over 2,200 new members of law enforcement would receive bonuses.

The $15 million award was made possible through the Florida Law Enforcement Recruitment Bonus Program in 2022-2023.

According to a news release, 2,265 law enforcement officers received a $5,000 bonus after taxes in their first year of the program.

Read: Central Florida law enforcement informs community before permitless carry law takes effect

Floridas law enforcement officers put their lives on the line every day to protect our communities, DeSantis said. And I am proud that Floridas reputation proceeds itself as 668 out-of-state law enforcement recruits have chosen to practice this noble profession in Florida.

The recruitment program encourages Floridians to join the field and brings in out-of-state recruits.

Read: Florida first responders prepare for worst-case scenarios during Operation Overamped

There have been 668 recruits across the United States, including 230 from California, New York and Pennsylvania.

For more information about the program, click here.

Click here to download the free WFTV news and weather apps, click here to download the WFTV Now app for your smart TV and click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live.
Greek authorities stood by as the migrant ship that capsized  leaving hundreds dead  drifted off course for nearly 7 hours: NYT

A undated photo provided by the Hellenic Coast Guard shows migrants onboard a boat before it capsized somehwere off the coast of Greece. Hellenic Coast Guard/Handout via Reuters

Hundreds of migrants are presumed dead after their ship capsized in the Ionian Sea on June 14.

The Greek Coast Guard claimed the ship was not in need of immediate rescue.

Tracking data shows that the boat was drifting off course for several hours, NYT reported.

The migrant ship that capsized somewhere off the coast of Greece last month, leaving hundreds dead, was drifting off course for nearly seven hours as the Greek Coast Guard stood by and held off a rescue operation, The New York Times reported.

Up to 750 migrants were believed to be on the Adriana, a fishing vessel, making the perilous journey from Tobruk, Libya, to Italy, according to United Nations. On June 14, five days after the Adriana set sail, the boat capsized with more than 600 passengers presumed dead.

104 people survived.

The Greek Coast Guard previously said it offered to rescue the boat when it was in international waters, but those offers were rejected, the Associated Press reported. The authorities also claimed the boat initially did not require rescue because it appeared to be on track to its destination.

But tracking data and satellite images reviewed by the Times show that the vessel was off course for about six and a half hours, moving in a circle away from its destination before it capsized on the early morning of June 14.

According to survivor testimonies, the Times reported that the ship was already experiencing many issues two days after its journey began on June 9.

Survivors said the engine failed as early as the second day of the voyage; food and water had depleted on the third day; and at least six people died inside the ship by the fourth, according to the Times, which interviewed some of the surviving passengers.

On June 13, migrants convinced the captain, a 22-year-old Egyptian man, to send a distress call to Italian officials. That afternoon, around 1 p.m., the European Border and Coast Guard Agency, Frontex, alerted Italian authorities about the vessel. But the call did not trigger an immediate rescue operation.

According to sealed court documents and footage reviewed by the Times, about seven hours after Frontex first spotted the vessel, Greek authorities called two commercial ships nearby to bring food, water, and diesel to the migrant boat so that it could continue its journey.

However, around 7:40 p.m. on June 13, the boat stopped moving toward its destination and began moving in a circle for about six and a half hours before it capsized around 2 a.m. the following day.

BBC also previously reported that the boat appeared to be stalled for several hours before the ship's tragic fate, challenging Greek officials' claims that the boat appeared to be heading toward its destination.

The Greek Coast Guard has also said that offers to help the vessel were rejected. According to the Times, the 22-year-old captain said he wanted to continue the journey, despite desperate pleas for help from the passengers. The Times noted that smuggling captains are often not paid until the destination is reached.

Nine crew members who survived the accident were arrested and charged with causing the sinking and smuggling migrants.

The cause of the ship's demise is still under investigation.

Read the original article on Insider
Russia is accused of ecocide in Ukraine. But what does that mean?

On June 6, Ukraine suffered an environmental catastrophe. The collapse of the Kakhovka dam in the south of the country sent water thundering downstream, killing more than 100 people according to Ukrainian officials. It wiped out villages, flooded farmland and nature reserves, and swept up pollutants like oil and agricultural chemicals as it made its destructive path towards the Black Sea.

The causes of the collapse have yet to be established  whether it was targeted as part of Russias war in Ukraine, or whether it was a structural failure  but what is certain is that it is one of the biggest ecological disasters Europe has seen in the last few decades.

And Ukraine is calling it ecocide.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky described the collapse as an environmental bomb of mass destruction. High profile figures outside the country have agreed. The Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg, on a visit to Kyiv on Thursday, told reporters that ecocide and environmental destruction is a form of warfare as Ukrainians by this point know all too well, and so does Russia.

Swedish environmental activist Greta Thunberg, left, and other prominent international and Ukrainian figures attend a press briefing in Kyiv on June 29, 2023. - Sergei Supinsky/AFP/Getty Images

The term ecocide may be an unfamiliar one to many, but there has been a long-running fight to get large-scale environmental destruction recognized as an international crime, prosecutable at the International Criminal Court (ICC).

As the world continues to witness ecological disasters that span national borders, criminal accountability is rare, due in part to a lack of proper legislation and investigative process, experts say.

It may take years to fully understand the full scope of the damage caused by the destruction of the Kakhovka dam but some legal and environmental experts believe the unfolding ecological catastrophe will be a turning point for the recognition of ecocide.

This moment, the destruction of the dam, how visible this has been, is perhaps one of those paradigm moments when we do actually see a shift, said Doug Weir from the Conflict and Environment Observatory, a UK-based charity.

What exactly is ecocide?

The push to make ecocide an international crime has been bubbling for decades, but the past 10 years or so have seen a renewed fight, spearheaded by the British lawyer Polly Higgins, who died in 2019. There has been pressure building up around this issue, Weir said.

Until now, international criminal law has focused mainly on crimes committed directly against people, but experts say there has been a gap when it comes to legislation that would target the gravest harms to the environment.

The Deep-Water Horizon oil spill, severe pollution in the Niger Delta and Amazon deforestation, could be examples of ecocide, said Jojo Mehta, co-founder and executive director of Stop Ecocide International.

A deforested area of the Amazon rainforest near the city of Humaita, Amazonas state, Brazil, on September 15, 2022. - Michael Dantas/AFP/Getty Images

For years, Indigenous leaders and human rights groups in Brazil have been asking the ICC to investigate the former Brazilian president Jair Bolsonaro for ecocide, over dismantled environmental policies and soaring deforestation.

In 2021, a panel of experts drafted legislation that, if adopted, would add ecocide as the fifth crime the ICC can prosecute, alongside genocide, crimes against humanity, war crimes and the crime of aggression.

The panel defined ecocide as unlawful or wanton acts committed with knowledge that there is a substantial likelihood of severe and either widespread or long-term damage to the environment being caused by those acts.

Philippe Sands, a lawyer with more than 30 years of experience in international law, was part of the panel. The law can make a difference by changing consciousness, he told CNN. While the crimes the ICC prosecutes focus directly on the protection of the human, the gap is the crime to the environment, he said.

Mehta, whose charitable foundation commissioned the independent expert panel, said the idea of legislation wasnt to prosecute every little environmental harm. What ecocide aims at is naming and criminalizing the worst harms to nature, she told CNN.

That is important practically and legally but also symbolically, Mehta said. When you put ecocide alongside genocide, its also about saying that actually, when we destroy ecosystems upon which we essentially depend for our existence, then that is just as bad, wrong, dangerous, serious as destroying people, she said.

As well as forcing accountability, Mehta believes the legislation could help stop environmental crimes being perpetrated in the first place, forcing corporate executives and political leaders to consider the environmental damage their actions may cause.

The whole point of criminal liability is not actually punishment, its prevention, she said. The fact that there is not a crime that says you shouldnt destroy the environment to this degree means that there is implicit permission around it. I mean, you can imagine what will happen if we suddenly decriminalize murder?

What happens next?

The legislation proposed by the panel is yet to be adopted by the more than 120 countries that are parties to the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court, but several countries, including Ukraine, have already adopted ecocide as a crime under domestic law.

A number of others have debated doing the same, including Brazil, Canada, Kenya, the Maldives and the UK, according to Stop Ecocide International.

As the campaign to recognize the crime of ecocide gains pace around the world, however, some experts believe its adoption by the ICC is inevitable. It is not a question of whether ecocide will become part of international criminal law, its only a question of when, Sands said.

Ukrainian students at a protest in Kyiv on 8 June 2023, amid Russia's invasion of Ukraine. - STR/NurPhoto/Getty Images

There are sticking points, though.

The fact that ecocide would not just apply in conflicts could be an obstacle, Weir said. It also applies in peacetime, and its also potentially targeting corporations, like big oil companies, who may well be committing ecocide through their actions, said Weir. There are a number of countries that may fear how far it could go, or what it could constrain, he added.

Others say the issue has not been among the ICCs priorities and that, in general, political will is lacking.

A spokesperson for the ICC told CNN that the Office of the Prosecutor continues to focus on the implementation of its mandate to investigate and prosecute the core crimes within the Courts jurisdiction and that such investigations and prosecutions may also address acts intended to destroy or harm the environment.

Many experts still believe that the recognition of ecocide as a separate crime at the ICC is needed to provide the tools to hold people accountable, and also to act as a deterrent.

This is about us, we have to be working on finding these tools, as climate change and environmental issues, these are not just issues for one country, said Anna Ackerman, policy analyst at the International Institute for Sustainable Development, who also works with Ukrainian and European NGOs on green reconstruction in Ukraine.

Ukraine calculates the damage

In southern Ukraine, officials and non-profits are still trying to figure out the extent of the ecological catastrophe resulting from the dam collapse.

The flooding has already had far-reaching impacts. Authorities in the city of Mykolaiv have warned residents not to drink tap water, go swimming or fish after contaminants, including Cholera-like vibrio bacteria, were detected in the water.

The once picturesque coastline of the city of Odesa has turned into a garbage dump and animal cemetery, Ukrainian authorities have said. Nearly 3,000 people have been evacuated from the Kherson and Mykolaiv regions.

A woman wades through waist-high water after retrieving some belongings from her home in Kherson after the bursting of the Kakhovka dam. - Matthew Hatcher/Sopa/LightRocket/Getty Images

There are also fears more environmental disasters could follow. The biggest nuclear plant in Europe, the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant in southern Ukraine, is currently under Russian control and could cause an ecological catastrophe if it were damaged, Weir said.

Ukraines Prosecutor General has opened an investigation into the dam collapse and an investigative team from the ICC has visited the area to investigate, the court has confirmed. A working group, including Thunberg, has also been established to draw attention to the environmental impact of war.

If ecocide were an international crime, it could give the process more authority, some experts say.

It is important to add ecocide as a crime, in the case of Ukraine, so that Russia can pay for some of the damages, even if money alone will always remain inadequate, Ackerman said.

You cant put a price tag on the damage that has and will result from the extinction of various species, deforestation or air and water pollution, she said. How do you calculate that?

CNNs Amy Cassidy contributed to this report.

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By Sofia Menchu

GUATEMALA CITY (Reuters) - Guatemala's top court on Saturday ordered ballots from the first-round presidential election to be reviewed after the front-runner's party and allies challenged the results, setting up the potential for a recount ahead of the runoff vote.

Former first lady Sandra Torres is set to face off in the decisive second round on Aug. 20 with anti-graft candidate Bernardo Arevalo, who bucked forecasts to become the runner-up as anger over years of corruption scandals dominated voter sentiment.

Torres took 15.8% of the vote in the June 25 round, with Arevalo close behind with 11.8%. Some analysts expect Arevalo to win the runoff due to Torres' unpopularity in the voter-dense capital, Guatemala City.

The court said it would suspend election processes in the Central American country until the ballots are reviewed, acting at the request of Torres' National Unity of Hope party, President Alejandro Giammattei's Vamos party and several allied groups.

It said Guatemalan electoral authorities would check the votes, especially any thought to have irregularities, to make sure they met legal requirements.

The court said it would then determine whether to take the rare step of mandating a recount.

Arevalo said he would ask Guatemala's electoral court to annul the top court's decision, which he described as lacking legal merit and dangerous to the electoral process.

After his surprise success, Arevalo has called on Guatemalan voters to be on guard against attempts by his opponents to manipulate the outcome.

"We can't let the same old parties, frustrated and disappointed by their poor results in the first round, tarnish and call into question the free decision of thousands of Guatemalans," he said in a video on social media.

In the days after the vote, Torres said she was concerned that votes had been manipulated with a faulty software system to favor Arevalo's party, Semilla.

The Organization of American States, which observed the vote, said the process appeared to be carried out fairly, with few irregularities that did not alter the results.

(Reporting by Sofia Menchu, Writing by Daina Beth Solomon; editing by William Mallard)
People gather outside the Constitutional Court where a session to examine the complaints of several political parties about irregularities in the June 25th general elections is underway, in Guatemala City, Saturday, July 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Moises Castillo) (ASSOCIATED PRESS)

GUATEMALA CITY (AP)  Guatemalas highest court has suspended the release of official election results, granting a temporary injunction to 10 parties that challenged the results of the June 25 vote.

The Constitutional Court late Saturday called for a new hearing to review the contested tallies in no more than five days.

Sandra Torres and Bernardo Arevalo had emerged from a field of nearly two dozen presidential hopefuls in the first round of voting. Since neither came close the 50% threshold, they were expected to compete in an Aug. 20 runoff to determine Guatemalas next president.

Arevalo in particular from the progressive Seed Movement party was a surprise, as he had not been polling among the leading candidates. Torres, the candidate for the conservative UNE party, is making her third bid for the presidency.

Essentially, the court wants to compare the tallies that were put into the electoral system with the ones from the polling places themselves to make sure they match. If necessary, the court said that it would order a new count of challenged ballots.

Constitutional lawyer Alejandro Balsells said a recount should be avoided for the good of the process. The temporarily formed panels that count the votes at each polling station on election day are the ones who count should matter.

Practically speaking, it means that a week after the election, results remain unofficial for president, vice president, all of the seats in congress and hundreds of local elected positions across the country.

On Sunday, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said in a statement that the U.S. government endorsed the conclusions of numerous domestic and international election observation groups, which found that the published results in Guatemalas most highly observed election matched with their observations across the country.

The United States supports the Guatemalan peoples constitutional right to elect their leaders via free and fair elections and is deeply concerned by efforts that interfere with the June 25 election result, the statement said. Undermining the June 25 election would be a grave threat to democracy with far reaching implications.

Among the parties challenging the results are those of three candidates who were polling among the leaders before election day, but ended up getting less than 8% of the vote each. However, Torres party also asked for a review of the voting tallies.

Dozens of people protested outside the court Saturday night, demanding that their votes be respected and not determined by the courts.

Arevalo was among them and said, together with the people we are not going to allow them to defraud the will of the Guatemalan people.
Johnny Piccolo, executive chef and owner of Piccolo's Restaurant in Worcester.

Rideshare drivers help restaurants and improve public safety by getting patrons home safely after a nice meal or a late night out.

For years, drivers have been asking to remain independent contractors and keep the freedom and flexibility that they prefer. But this freedom is under threat. There are currently efforts in the courts and at the State House to force rideshare and delivery drivers to become W-2 employees. Now, these drivers need help from the business community and our customers.

In the restaurant industry, we count on workers to wait on diners, cook meals, wash dishes, mix drinks and take care of customer needs. As with most employers, I set a schedule. Uncertainty is bad for business. Without those schedules, I wouldnt know how many customers I could serve or when I could serve them.

For many workers, those schedules simply will not work. For some its because they need to care for their kids or elderly parents, or they attend class, or they work another job. In the past these folks had few or no options for alternatives that allowed them to set their own schedules. Now they have rideshare and delivery driving.

But special interests want to force independent drivers to become employees, ending their flexible schedules. Some of the legislative proposals go even beyond this, not only forcing drivers to be employees but also requiring them to report to dispatch zones in between rides and obtain permits from any city or town they wish to drive in  the exact kinds of requirements that made taxis nearly impossible to find outside of major cities.

Proposals like this would not only lead many current drivers to quit but could also effectively cap the number of drivers in the future and severely limit them in places outside of Boston.

There is still hope for drivers. Some of the bills at the State House would deliver the independence and benefits drivers need. The bills would guarantee their freedom to drive when, where and for however long they want, for as many companies as they want, while also adding new benefits that drivers have asked for: guaranteed minimum pay, flexible benefits, paid sick time, paid family medical leave and more.

Perhaps, more importantly, these bills begin a conversation around what drivers want, and could resolve this issue before the end of the year.

For drivers and the countless businesses who rely on them to get our patrons home or deliver their meals or groceries, this critical issue must be a priority. Uncertainty is bad for business, and its bad for drivers.

I hope that other business leaders in the Worcester region will join me in calling on the Legislature to find a solution that protects drivers flexibility. Its time to listen to the thousands of app-based drivers and deliver for them, this year.

Johnny Piccolo is owner of Piccolos Restaurant and president of the Shrewsbury Street Merchants Association.

This article originally appeared on Telegram & Gazette: John Piccolo column on rideshare and delivery drivers as W-2 workers
Gov. Maura Healey and Lt. Gov. Kim Driscoll in a file photo.

The Nineteenth Amendment, granting women the right to vote and hold office, was ratified in 1920. Just three years later, Massachusetts elected the first two women to the Legislature. A century later, 234 women have served in the Massachusetts General Court  compared to over 20,000 men.

Today, women make up 31% of the Massachusetts Legislature, and the 62 women who serve are all members of the Massachusetts Caucus of Women Legislators. Since our 1975 founding, our membership has grown in size and diversity, and our areas of focus have expanded  and we have maintained a consistent thread of support among members.

While still a minority of the Legislature, our members are a force to be reckoned with. They hold a variety of leadership titles and serve as leaders on policies ranging from energy to health care. Women are in an unprecedented five of the six constitutional offices, including Gov. Maura Healey and Lt. Gov. Kim Driscoll.

We are honored to be co-chairing the Womens Caucus for the 2023-24 legislative session. Supported by a 12-member board of directors, the caucus aims to harness the power of its members and advance issues that impact women.

The caucuss strategic priorities for this session include elevating womens economic opportunity and eliminating barriers, addressing racial and gender disparities in health care, and empowering women in government. Legislatively, the caucus is focusing on five priorities that span these important areas.

Under the economic topic, the caucus is supporting two bills. Reps. Brandy Fluker Oakley and Josh Cutler and Sen. Patricia Jehlen filed An Act Relative to Salary RangeTransparency, which would have Massachusetts join several states in requiring employers to disclose the salary range when advertising a position. Research has found that salary range transparency in the hiring process is one of the best tools to help close the gender wage gap.

An Act Relative to a Livable Wage for Human Service Workers, filed by Rep. Kay Khan and Sen. Cindy Friedman, addresses disparities between the rate of pay for human services workers employed directly by the state and those employed by agencies with state contracts. Human services workers are more likely to have lower median wages and lower household incomes than workers in other industries.

To address racial and gender disparities in health care, Reps. Christine Barber and Jay Livingstone and Sen. Jehlen have filed an Act to Increase Access to Disposable Menstrual Products in Prisons, Homeless Shelters, and Public Schools. This bill requires all schools, prisons and homeless shelters to provide free access to menstrual products, which are a basic hygiene need and should be accessible to all.

An Act Relative to Postpartum Depression Screening,filed by Rep. Carole Fiola and Sen. Friedman, also aims to address health disparities. Postpartum depression is vastly underdiagnosed, partly because women are not being screened enough. This bill would require MassHealth to provide coverage for postpartum depression screenings by pediatricians for 12 months. Women often do not come forward with their symptoms, so having a pediatric physician who is trained to spot them can be critical.

Empowering women in government has long been a priority for the caucus, and we support An Act Supporting Parents Running for Public Office,filed by Reps. Joan Meschino and Mike Connolly and Sen. Jehlen. Currently, child care costs incurred during campaign events and activities are considered personal expenses and therefore not eligible for reimbursement. This bill would allow state and local candidates to use their campaign funds to pay for campaign-related child care expenses. Doing so would eliminate a major barrier and advance equitable political representation throughout the commonwealth.

Bipartisan and bicameral in nature, the caucus is a unique entity on Beacon Hill, bringing together all the women who serve. The caucus membership spans generations, geography, backgrounds, cultures and political views. That diversity is what keeps the caucus strong. We come together on issues that impact all women, using our members' lived experiences to ensure that the generations of women to come have expanded opportunities.

We encourage you to connect with the caucus, support our priorities and consider how you can get involved in your community. With all of us working together, we can continue to make strides toward true equality.

Sen. Joan B. Lovely, D-Salem, and Rep. Hannah Kane, D-Shrewsbury, are co-chairs of the Massachusetts Caucus of Women Legislators.

This article originally appeared on Telegram & Gazette: Joan Lovely Hannah Kane on Massachusetts women's legislative caucus
Jennifer Cord, left, whose son Rayshard Mitchell was fatally shot in 2012, attends an anti-gun-violence event in Daytona Beach on Saturday. Scores of people marched for the cause. The march took place near where Cord's son was killed. His murder remains unsolved.

One by one, mothers and other relatives of young people killed by gun violence in Daytona Beach shared their stories.

LaShandra Miles' son Lawrence Davis was shot to death on March 29 at age 24. She described him as a family man and a loving person.

"Maybe three weeks after my son was murdered, maybe a little longer, another kid got murdered, a 16-year-old kid, and that's the day I knew I had to get up and do something," she said.

Saturday's "Guns Down March" provided a powerful and painful picture of loss.

Do whatever is necessary

Miles said she wants people to work together to provide more activities for young people, get more involved in their lives and do whatever is necessary to stop the killings.

"I had to figure out something to do to put a stop to what was going on in our streets to save our kids," she said.

Some of the shootings happened near the path those gathered on Saturday morning walked  starting from the Julia T. and Charles W. Cherry Sr. Cultural and Educational Center at 925 George W. Engram Blvd. and ending at Joe Harris Park at 315 Pearl St.

"My son, he was murdered in 2012 on Verdell Street. And he was a good kid, and outgoing. Loving. Kind," said Jennifer Cord, who is still waiting for authorities to arrest the person who killed Rayshard Mitchell.

"I feel someone should say something. Speak out," she said.

LaShandra Miles speaks out against gun violence on Saturday at an event she helped organize in Daytona Beach. Her son Lawrence Davis was killed on March 29.

Culture of silence

The city of Daytona Beach has seen a spate of shootings this year, seven of them fatal. Daytona Beach Police Chief Jakari Young was among those who attended and lamented a culture of silence that surrounds these crimes.

"There's got to be consistent conversations occurring," Young said. "There's got to be accountability in the communities. And then when things happen, because things are going to happen, people have to come forward and speak up  because we live in this culture now to where no one wants to cooperate. ... but that changes when it's their loved one or family member."

Grace Robinson, whose grandson was killed by gunfire, speaks to a crowd in Daytona Beach after a march to end gun violence on Saturday.

The event provided a platform for family members to remember their loved ones, urge nonviolence in the community and seek more action in the county to help solve the problem. The group marched along Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune Boulevard, some holding signs, praying, and chanting "Guns down, Jesus up."

The message seemed to resonate with a few small groups of people who watched from the roadside. A couple of people waved as they watched outside of a hair salon. A woman shouted in support as the procession passed a convenience store.

Rapper killed in shooting: Man shot at Daytona apartment complex identified as SCY Jimm

One of the shootings that Young talked about at Wednesday's press conference was a drive-by that killed Travis Hubbert Jr., 20, on Jan. 9 on Tucker Street.

Javin Clayton, another 20-year-old, is charged with second-degree murder, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, and discharging a firearm from a vehicle in the case. He pleaded not guilty, and his case is ongoing.

People hold signs with images of loved ones lost to gun violence as they participate in the "Guns Down March" on Saturday in Daytona Beach.

Hubbert's grandmother Grace Robinson marched at the event Saturday and spoke to the crowd, wearing a light blue shirt with a prom photo of Hubbert. She spoke through tears as she talked about her grandson. During an interview, a woman came to her side and held her hand.

Hubbert is missed in many ways and by many people, Robinson said. He left behind a baby. He was known for making others laugh.

She asked everyone to pray that all mothers and grandmothers will get justice for their families, and she urged people to stop turning to violence.

"We're all going to miss him. ... I have a hole in my heart. It will never be filled," she said.

 Reporter Patricio Balona contributed to this report.

This article originally appeared on The Daytona Beach News-Journal: Family of Daytona Beach shooting victims walk in 'Guns Down March'
GOP presidential candidate Nikki Haley called for more consensus on abortion, saying that Republicans have a long way to go before any federal ban on abortion is put in place.

I think that we have to humanize this situation and stop demonizing it. But in order to get a federal law, you have to have 60 Senate votes, a majority of the House and a presidential signature, Haley told Shannon Bream on Fox News Sunday, noting that about 45 senators are anti-abortion.

Bream asked Haley, a former South Carolina governor, whether she would sign a 15-week ban on abortion if she was president. Haley responded that Republicans need to reach an agreement on the policies surrounding abortion in order to reach the 60 votes in the Senate needed to pass a ban.

She said that there should be a consensus on banning late-term abortions, allowing doctors who are anti-abortion to not perform the procedure and ensure that state laws do not put women in jail for having an abortion. She also said there should be more access to contraceptives and more encouragement for adoptions throughout the country.

We need to look at this and say, how do we make sure we save as many babies as we can and support as many moms as we can, she said. And so in order to do that, were gonna have to say how do we get 60 votes and I think that we should find consensus.

Consensus on the fact that lets encourage more adoptions that are good quality adoptions, consensus on the fact that we should have contraception that contraception should be available and consensus that no state law should put a woman in jail or give her the death penalty for having an abortion, Haley said. Lets start there and whatever 60 Senate votes come to, whether thats 15 weeks, I absolutely would sign it.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Hannibal Gaddafi moved to hospital in 'critical condition' in Lebanon - TV

Hannibal Gaddafi attends the signing agreement ceremony between Libya's Shipping Corporation and STX Europe to build a cruise ship, in Tripoli

CAIRO (Reuters) -Hannibal Gaddafi, son of the late Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafi, has been moved from a Lebanese prison to hospital in "critical condition", Dubai-based Al-Hadath TV reported on Sunday.

Gaddafi went on hunger strike last month in protest at his incarceration without trial since 2015.

Citing unidentified sources, Al-Hadath said he had suffered a sharp drop in his blood sugar level.

Gaddafi has been charged in Lebanon with concealing information about the fate of Imam Musa al-Sadr, a Lebanese Shi'ite Muslim cleric who disappeared while on a trip to Libya in 1978.

Muammar Gaddafi was captured and killed by rebels in 2011.

(Reporting by Hatem Maher, Writing by Muhammad Al Gebaly,Editing by Andrew Cawthorne and Kevin Liffey)
Here's what could happen to the Wagner Group after the armed rebellion against Russia failed

Wagner mercenary group fighters wave flags of Russia and Wagner group on top of a building in an unidentified location, in the course of the Russia-Ukraine conflict, in this still image obtained from a video released on May 20, 2023. Press service of "Concord"/Handout via REUTERS

The Wagner paramilitary group attempted an armed rebellion in Russia but failed.

Its leader, former convict Yevgeny Prigozhin, was exiled to Belarus.

Experts explain what could be next for Prigozhin and his mercenaries.

Within 36 hours, the Wagner paramilitary group's armed uprising against Russia's military command was over.

The group was around 125 miles from Moscow after a supposed deal was struck that would see their leader, ex-convict Yevgeny Prigozhin, go into exile in Belarus.

Now, its future hangs in the balance.

Experts believe, however, that the failed uprising will not spell out an end to the army of merecenaries, which has a presence not just in Eastern Europe, but throughout Africa and the Middle East, according to The Times.

Here is what could happen to the group:

Some are joining Prighozin in Belarus

In an address to the nation earlier this week, Russian President Vladimir Putin said that Wagner's fighters could either enlist with the Russian army, follow Prigozhin to Belarus, or return home.

Around 1,000 Wagner fighters have already decided to go to Belarus, the independent Russian media outlet Meduza reported, citing a source in Russia's Ministry of Defense.

British intelligence services estimated that around 8,000 mercenaries were involved in the march on Moscow. Insider is unable to verify this number independently.

Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko told reporters earlier this week that he had offered Wagner troops an "abandoned base" in Belarus, The Guardian reported. He did not say how many had already come.

Prigozhin has not commented whether some of his mercenaries planned to follow him to the neighboring country.

Some fighters have decided not to go to Belarus or join the Russian army, according to a Wagner mercenary.

The Wagner fighter told Meduza: "Not all went with Prigozhin: some units remained. Some hang out in the Luhansk and Donbas regions. Some are still in the Krasnodar territory."

Krasnodar is located in the North Caucasus region of southern Russia.

Founder of Wagner private mercenary group Yevgeny Prigozhin. Press service of "Concord"/Handout via REUTERS

Russia's Ministry of Defense is not appealing to Wagner fighters

Some experts believe that many Wagner recruits refuse to fight for Russia because they aren't paid enough.

The paramilitary pays fighters twice as much as the Russian military, the German-Marshall Fund reported last year. Putin admitted earlier this week that from May last year to May 2023, the Russian state paid more than 86 billion rubles ($940 million) to the Wagner Group.

Dr. Joana de Deus Pereira, a senior research fellow at the Royal United Services Institute (RUSI) Europe specializing in counter-terrorism, told Insider that the fighters care about getting paid.

"So, above all, it's about money. Secondly, some of these individuals who are at the top of the organization would be easy targets if they enroll in the Ministry of Defense," she told Insider.

"Also, I think in terms of capability, they can easily either create a new paramilitary organization or join already the ones that are running, than to join the Ministry of Defense," she added.

Belarussian President Alexander Lukashenko attends Russian-Belarussian talks in Sochi, Russia, February 7, 2020. Mikhail Svetlov/Getty Images

A rebrand and turning to Africa

While Prigozhin and Wagner's advance caused a stir inside Russia, the group also has interests in other countries worldwide, having fought in Libya, Syria, the Central African Republic, and Mali, among other places.

De Deus Pereira told Insider that this is where many fighters will return.

"We have to understand that Wagner has been working in Africa for several months, years even. So it will probably undergo a rebranding operation," she said. "They absolutely need their operations to continue in these countries."

Julia Stanyard, from the Global Initiative against Transnational Organized Crime, told the BBC that Prigozhin might also head to the continent, saying it is likely he "will retain control and ultimate responsibility for the Wagner operations in Africa."

Prigozhin's future

It is less unclear what Prigozhin's future looks like.

Lukashenko told reporters earlier this week that he convinced Putin not to "wipe out" the Wagner chief after the failed rebellion, though some experts have disagreed.

De Deus Pereira told Insider that even if Prigozhin decides to step back from the group, it will continue without him, adding that there are at least 25 paramilitary organizations other than Wagner currently operating in Russia, some of which have links to Russia's Ministry of Defense.

"Wagner has had many faces. Before Prigozhin, there were others," she said. "It's very easy to take the place or to put a new face in front of this organization."

Read the original article on Business Insider
In the immediate aftermath of last years mass shooting at Highland Parks Fourth of July parade came the expected questions when such a tragedy unfolds: Who was the gunman? Where had his weapon come from?

And in Illinois, a state run by gun control-minded Democrats, could laws be bolstered and were police using them as effectively as possible?

Experts have suggested what was on the books  if properly understood and implemented  potentially could have prevented the alleged shooter from obtaining the high-powered semi-automatic rifle used to rain bullets down on paradegoers, killing seven and wounding dozens more.

Ensuing efforts centered on so-called red flag gun laws and other measures designed to take away firearms from those whose backgrounds suggest they should not have access to them. And a Tribune analysis of available state data shows that the push by politicians, advocates and police leaders to use them more often seems to have had an effect in the year since the mass shooting, including significant spikes in the use of the red flag laws and formal warnings to Illinois State Police about people who should not own firearms.

In a period running from approximately the date of the shooting through May 31, state police received more than 11,800 so-called clear and present danger reports, notifying them that someone might be too dangerous to be granted a gun license. That is more than double the number received during the same period the prior year, state data shows.

The use of a separate tool, the firearms restraining order, the form for the states red flag law, has also jumped since the Highland Park attack.

The orders, which judges can use to take guns away from people they consider a threat, were granted 228 times in the 3  years from the laws inception in January 2019 through early August 2022. Just from then until May, there have been another 146 granted, nearly tripling the rate of usage based on a monthly average.

Additionally, changes to the firearms restraining order law were incorporated this year in a sweeping measure from the Democratic-controlled state legislature  currently entangled in state and federal legal challenges  that bans more than 100 high-powered guns, including the type used in the shooting, and ammunition magazines with the capacity of holding more than 10 rounds in long guns and 15 in handguns.

Increases in the use of state law can be attributed to heightened awareness, Illinois State Police Director Brendan Kelly told the Tribune in a recent interview.

The awareness is growing, and that is where the thrust of our effort has to be. Its simply making people aware that they have this option, Kelly said. And then, as we do that, eliminating any barriers or challenges that may be there from a technical standpoint or a legal standpoint to simplifying the process.

Still, gaps in the available data remain. Theres no data available from the courts that show the number of firearms restraining orders that are requested but denied by a judge, leaving an incomplete picture of whether more have been requested after Highland Park or if judges have been more likely to grant them.

At the same time, lawmakers still need to consider a series of recommendations from a state police-led panel assembled prior to the Highland Park shooting to find ways to further strengthen the law. Illinois also still lags behind other states in its use of firearms restraining orders despite the efforts by law enforcement officials, legislators and others.

The events of Highland Park raised the firearms restraining orders profile significantly across the state, Kelly said, speaking for Illinois. While its not clear that the red flag laws we have here would have definitely prevented that circumstance, it did catalyze and ignite a lot of conversation among law enforcement, mental health professionals, school administrators, and other stakeholders about why or why not these tools are being used on a daily basis.

Although distinct, firearms restraining orders and clear and present danger reports have generally the same purpose. Firearm restraining orders, however, must be granted by a judge and can only be requested by law enforcement or certain people close to the subject in question. Clear and present danger reports can be filed by other individuals, including school administrators and mental health professionals, and can be used by state police in determining whether to revoke someones firearm owners identification card or deny a FOID card application.

State police changed the way the latter are handled in direct response to gaps exposed by the particulars of the case of Robert Crimo III, the alleged Highland Park gunman who awaits trial on murder charges.

His father, Robert Crimo Jr., also awaits trial on felony reckless conduct charges for helping his son acquire a FOID card more than two years before the shooting, despite reports to police that the son tried to kill himself and threatened to kill others, according to authorities.

The younger Crimo was able to obtain a FOID card just months after Highland Park police in September 2019 filed a clear and present danger report. That was because the report wasnt retained after it was determined he didnt have a firearm permit at the time or a pending application for one, state police have said.

After the July 4 shooting, the state police codified in its administrative rules the agencys ability to retain clear and present danger reports even if the subject doesnt have a FOID card or a pending application on file and isnt deemed to be an imminent threat. The agency would be able to use such reports in evaluating future FOID card applications.

According to the state police, as a result of the rule changes, it retained 6,413 clear and present danger reports that previously could have had to be discarded out of a total of 11,812 reports filed from July 1, 2022 through May 31. Those 6,413 reports represented instances where the subject did not have a FOID card or pending application.

Those 11,812 reports also resulted in 5,181 FOID cards being revoked or applications being denied, more than double the 2,378 revocations and denials during the same period the previous year.

The Illinois Criminal Justice Information Authority, a state agency focused on research and analysis, told the Tribune they do not have data showing how many firearm restraining order petitions were filed overall. The Administrative Office of the Illinois Courts also does not have that information. Cook County Chief Judge Timothy Evans office approved the Tribunes request to receive local FRO data, but that data was not made available before press time.

Kelly acknowledged the gap, saying even his agency cant track the number of total firearm restraining order requests because it only learns of the orders once judges have signed off.

If theres a mechanism to be developed that would show that, I think that could reveal what are the fact patterns that result in a firearms restraining order being denied? he said. What does the court see that says, Hey, this may not be enough or this does meet the burden of proof?

Its a relevant question, added Kelly, due to the higher burden of proof for a firearms restraining order compared to a clear and present danger report.

Prosecutors do not directly request firearm restraining orders; that must be done by police, a relative or someone else close to the subject. But state law allows prosecutors to assist in filing petitions, and some states attorneys offices in Illinois have integrated themselves into the process.

DuPage County has had 95 firearm restraining orders granted since the law took effect in 2019. Thats more than any other county in Illinois. Cook County had the second most petitions filed with 64, followed by Lake County with 49 and Kane County with 17, according to state police data.

Republican DuPage County States Attorney Robert Berlin credits the countys high number of petitions to an aggressive push for training and awareness among prosecutors and police.

We have direct contact with the police on these matters. And we want to make sure that theyre done correctly, Berlin said.

In Lake County, home to Highland Park, the prosecutors office has hosted training sessions for local law enforcement and other interested parties on firearms restraining orders in response to the July Fourth shooting. The most recent session, in late June, had more than 60 participants.

Eric Rinehart, the countys Democratic top prosecutor, agreed the spike in firearms restraining orders since the shooting could probably be attributed to increased awareness. The tragedy sparked significant public conversations about red flag laws, as well as clear and present danger notifications.

Its important that we think about all of the different ways that we can regulate who has firearms, Rinehart said. I think we are all committed to developing a multilateral approach and collaborative approach with law enforcement, with schools and with health care providers, to make sure that we are finding, identifying and then isolating individuals who should not have firearms.

Rinehart stressed that firearms restraining orders are only one way of taking guns from potentially dangerous people. Any judge presiding over a criminal case can order a defendant to turn over their weapons as a condition of being released on bond, for example.

Of the firearms restraining orders requested in Lake County, most have to do with the gun owners potential mental health issues, not a criminal case, Rinehart said. He also said his office is working to spread word about clear and present danger reports, recently sending a letter to local schools reminding administrators of their obligation to notify state police if they believe someone poses a threat.

Chicagos endemic gun violence is largely carried out by those who do not own guns legally, limiting the reach of FROs. But law enforcement in Cook County told the Tribune that FROs are still in the mix.

A spokesperson for Democratic States Attorney Kim Foxx did not make anyone available for an interview. But in answers to written questions, the office stated that Cook County assistant states attorneys assigned to the offices mental health and domestic violence units help people with emergency firearms restraining order petitions when the petitioner needs help.

As part of the gun and magazine ban, lawmakers extended the duration of when firearms restraining orders can go into effect from six months to up to one year, with a renewal option.

Ed Sullivan, a contract lobbyist for the Illinois State Rifle Association, which is one of several gun rights entities challenging Gov. J.B. Pritzkers gun and magazine ban in court, said no one wants firearms to end up in the wrong hands. But hes concerned the firearms restraining order law could have adverse effects on legal gun owners, particularly if theyre involved in messy court disputes with ex-spouses.

We feel that the red flag law is unfortunately going in the wrong direction and can ultimately harm law-abiding citizens through false accusations, and well be tracking that to see if indeed that pans out, said Sullivan.

After the shooting, state Rep. Bob Morgan, a Deerfield Democrat who was with his family at the Highland Park parade when the first shots were fired, headed a working group of lawmakers focused on finding ways to reduce gun violence.

The result was the gun and magazine ban, which is currently awaiting rulings in separate legal challenges to the Illinois Supreme Court and 7th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals over the laws constitutionality.

Going forward, Morgan wants to review the process by which a gun owner accused in an order of protection for domestic violence would have to surrender their firearms.

Currently, such gun owners are generally required to turn in their guns to other FOID card holders in certain court proceedings if theyre named in such a petition. But this spring, the Illinois House passed a broad firearms safety bill that included a provision that would require them to only surrender their guns to law enforcement until the matter is resolved. The measure, however, hasnt made it through the Senate.

Morgan emphasized efforts still need to be made to educate the public about the laws Illinois has in place.

The vast majority of discussions around education and implementation of the firearms restraining orders are still relatively in their infancy, Morgan said.

dpetrella@chicagotribune.com

jgorner@chicagotribune.com

mcrepeau@chicagotribune.com
The history of Ferris wheels: What goes around comes around

For many, summer fun means thrill rides rule that soar, swirl, and defy gravity. But if you need a break from holding your breath, there's one attraction that lets you catch it: The Ferris wheel, a slow-moving salvation from all that speed.

Ferris wheels have been turning for more than 130 years, the first one constructed for the 1893 World's Columbian Exposition in Chicago, designed by George Washington Gale Ferris.

Paul Durica, director of exhibitions at the Chicago History Museum, notes that Ferris was an up-and-coming engineer in the early 1890s, when an announcement went out from the World's Fair organizers seeking a large-scale attraction, one that would top the piece de resistance at the previous World's Fair in Paris, the Eiffel Tower. "What a lot of people were responding with were designs that were very similar: We'll just build a bigger tower than the Eiffel Tower," Durica said. "But it was George Washington Gale Ferris who had the idea to make something on a similar scale but allow it to move."

Diagram of the original design for the Great Wheel of the Columbian Exposition of 1893, designed and built by George Washington Gale Ferris Jr. / Credit: Chronicle/Alamy

Legend has it he was inspired watching a water wheel turn. "He believed all along in the science, in the engineering, and he knew that it could work, even though it hadn't been done," Durica said.

Built in less than six months, his wheel opened to the public in June 1893. The steel structure was massive, climbing 264 feet, with 36 cars, each carrying 60 passengers. At the time, it was the tallest object in Chicago.

The first Ferris wheel, in Chicago, 1893. / Credit: Library of Congress

"It was an experience unlike people had ever really had before," Durica said. "You really sort of lose yourself in the experience as the world below you faded away and then suddenly came back into view, faded away again"

It's a sensation that endures to this day, with Ferris wheels (or observation wheels) spinning worldwide, in London, Las Vegas, and in Dubai, where one rises more than 800 feet.

The London Eye, the High Roller in Las Vegas, and the Ain Dubai observation wheel in Dubai. / Credit: CBS News

"Sunday Morning" paid a visit to the 300-foot-tall Dream Wheel in New Jersey. "The original Ferris wheel was steam-driven; we are 100 percent electronic. No steam, no hydraulics, just all electronics," said David Moore, the general operations manager.

Saberi asked, "What makes a wheel so enticing to engineers like yourself?"

"The size, the movement, and it's a pure work of art in the sky, spinning, with people on it enjoying themselves," Moore said.

The Dream Wheel in New Jersey offers views of the New York City skyline. / Credit: CBS News

Professor and author Caron Levis captures the whimsy of a Ferris wheel in her children's book, "Stop That Yawn." Saberi met her at the famed Wonder Wheel at Coney Island, which has been running since 1920.

The Wonder Wheel opened on the Coney Island boardwalk in 1920. / Credit: CBS News

"We're just naturally drawn to it, both as just people, but also writers and artists," Levis said.

The wheel has its place in popular culture, from the romantic in "The Notebook," to the menacing, with Orson Welles in "The Third Man."

As for the original, Paul Durica said it came to a halt soon after the Chicago World's Fair ended, when it was demolished. "Nobody wants it, so they decide basically to dynamite it. And that's the sad end of the original Ferris wheel," he said.

Out of over a hundred thousand parts, a bolt is one of the few pieces that remains. Where the original Ferris wheel stood, today an ice rink is in its place.

What Ferris built also broke him. He went bankrupt, got typhoid fever, and died at age 37, in 1896.

But all these years later, his invention keeps spinning, bringing a smile to Tom, Ron and Cougar Peck  Ferris' great-great-great-great-nephews.

They took a ride with us on the Centennial Wheel in Chicago. Saberi asked, "When you see all the kids getting off of this wheel, and other wheels, how does that make you feel?"

"Very proud," Tom replied. "The tradition's carrying on."

And what would George Ferris think of all the wheels around the world today? According to Durica, "George Ferris would not be surprised at all about the popularity of his invention. He knew it would work. He would probably say, if he surveyed the world and looked at things like the Wonder Wheel at Coney Island, the London Eye, 'See, I told you so. This is a great attraction!'"

The Centennial Wheel in Chicago. / Credit: CBS News

GALLERY: Early photos of amusement parks



For more info:

Deno's Wonder Wheel, Coney Island, N.Y.Dream Wheel, East Rutherford, New JerseyCentennial Wheel, ChicagoChicago History Museum"Stop That Yawn" by Caron Levis, illustrated by LeUyen Pham (Atheneum Books for Young Readers), in Hardcover and eBook formats, available via Amazon, Barnes & Noble and Bookshop.org



Story produced by Gabriel Falcon. Editor: Joseph Frandino.

Lindsay Gorman says context is "really important" in differentiating AI-generated images

UC president Michael Drake use of affirmative action in their system "has been removed"

Full interview: Former Vice President Mike Pence on "Face the Nation"
Rioters ram-raid home of French mayor, wife injured A view of the city hall in L'Hay-les-Roses

By Elizabeth Pineau and Benoit Van Overstraeten

PARIS (Reuters) - Rioters ram-raided the home of a Paris suburb mayor, set the car alight and launched fireworks at his wife and young children as they fled during a fifth night of nationwide unrest over Tuesday's police shooting of a teen of North African descent.

Vincent Jeanbrun, 39, the centre-right mayor of the southern suburb of L'Hay-les-Roses, was at the town hall when his house was attacked with his wife Melanie and children asleep inside.

The aggressors drove their vehicle at the suburban house but were halted by a low wall ringing the property's outdoor terrace, the local public prosecutor said. They then torched their vehicle.

As Jeanbrun's wife and children, aged 5 and 7, took flight through the back yard, they were targeted with fireworks. Jeanbrun told Prime Minister Elisabeth Borne his wife had had surgery to a broken leg and faced a three-month rehabilitation.

"While attempting to shield them and fleeing the attackers, my wife and one of my children were hurt," the mayor said.

The local prosecutor told reporters that an investigation into attempted murder had been opened. No suspects have been arrested.

Jeanbrun's town hall has been the target of attack for several nights since Tuesday's shooting and has been protected with barbed wire and barricades.

On a walkabout hours after the incident, Jeanbrun met local well-wishers and passed by the town's covered market which has been wrecked during the unrest.

"Stay strong, Mr. Mayor. Were with you, one man told the visibly emotional mayor.

"I didnt think we'd ever live through something like this," the mayor told another bystander who wished his wife well.

"Its pretty disgusting," she replied.

(Reporting by Elizabeth Pineau and Benoit van Overstraeten; Writing by Richard Lough; Editing by Alison Williams)
Homeowner dumbfounded by neighbors complaints about their money-saving renovation: That should be the end of [it]

One Redditor planning to install solar panels claims to have encountered an annoying roadblock: a misinformed neighbor who thinks the installation would pose a health risk.

The user posted in r/Solar, which has seen a flurry of activity recently thanks to a change in the California Public Utilities Commissions solar energy billing plan. Under the old system, NEM 2.0, residents with solar panels would receive around 30 cents per watt for any energy they contribute to the system, according to Solar.com. Under the updated NEM 3.0, the rate will be closer to 8 cents.

However, residents who already have solar panels when the change takes effect will be grandfathered into the old system and maintain the higher rate, which is what this Redditor is trying to achieve.

I will be livid if I miss out because of her, they say.

According to the original poster, their HOA requires that before residents install solar panels, they notify neighbors in writing and receive their signatures. However, one neighbor, who the original poster refers to as Karen, refuses to sign.

She thinks the panels will rain radiation down on her and give her cancer, says the frustrated Redditor. There is no evidence of any such health risk.

Other users are quick to reassure the original poster. Actually, you have until April 14, 2023, to submit interconnection paperwork and be grandfathered into the existing NEM 2.0 rates, one poster says. After that, your installer has up to three years to finalize the installation.

Another commenter points out that the original poster may not even need to wait out the HOAs approval process at all. In California, its illegal for an HOA to say no to you for solar panels, they say.

They also share a link to a New Day Solar webpage that explains homeowners rights under the Solar Rights Act, which are clear: Any rule that prohibits or restricts the installation or use of a solar energy system is void and unenforceable.

You notified her, she refused to acknowledge, they know shes been informed   says a third commenter. That should be the end of the matter.

Other homeowners have met resistance from HOAs when installing solar panels in Pennsylvania, North Carolina, and Illinois. Thankfully, many states have laws protecting solar panel installation.

Join our free newsletter for easy tips to save more, waste less, and help yourself while helping the planet.
A hot spot for seniors across the Rock Hill region turns dirt on new living facility

A new senior living site broke ground in Lake Wylie on Tuesday. Sunflower Springs of Lake Wylie will feature 101 units, 83 of them assisted living and 18 memory care spaces.

Sunflower Springs will be the fifth senior living community in South Carolina for Florida-based SRI Management.

Don Bishop, CEO of SRI Management, said the company is thrilled to break ground on an exceptional community that will become a vibrant hub for seniors.

Senior living plays a vital role in enhancing the well-being and quality of life for older adults, and we are committed to providing the highest level of care, comfort, and engagement for our residents, Bishop said.

Officials with Anvaya Investments and the Lake Wylie Chamber of Commerce joined in the groundbreaking Tuesday. The 243 Latitude Lane address for Sunflower Springs is beside the chamber property. Sunflower Springs will add about 45 full-time jobs to the area, for more than $1.5 million in annual salary and wages.

While Sunflower Springs could draw from a larger area, its Lake Wylie location gives the site plenty of opportunity to serve seniors already there. Recent U.S. Census Bureau data shows the Lake Wylie area south of S.C. 49, east of the Three Points intersection and north of Crowders Creek has a more than 1,000 residents age 65 or older.

The 26.6% of all residents in that census tract who are 65 or older is second in York County only to a western Rock Hill tract (27%) near West Main Street, McConnells Highway and Heckle Boulevard. In the three-county Rock Hill region, only two other tracts have higher percentages. A tract just north of Lancater has 27.7%. By far the largest percentage comes from an Indian Land tract thats home to Sun City. There are more than 5,500 seniors there, at 61.7% of that tracts total population.

Sunflower Springs adds to a host of senior living plans across the region that include age-restricted or age-targeted subdivisions, new assisted living proposals, memory care sites or adult day care facilities across mainly York and Lancaster counties, including Rock Hill and Fort Mill.
I take it for granted, and I think that many of my fellow citizens also do.

This Tuesday, July 4, is the 247th anniversary of July 4, 1776. That is the date that Americas independence from Great Britain was declared in a document authored by Thomas Jefferson, who later became the nations third president.

Independence Day has been celebrated ever since.

Fireworks have long been a big part of the party. There was a little lake just down the street from our house in my New Jersey hometown where the communitys volunteer fire department would set off traditional explosions and wonderful light displays in the sky above. Appreciative "oohs" and aahs" always were heard from the gathered crowd.

Kate Coleman writes a monthly column for The Herald-Mail.

At home, my twin sisters and I enjoyed our sparklers, thin metal wires about 10 inches long. When lighted with a match, the magical stuff  or so it seemed to us little kids  would shoot off countless gold-colored sparks in every direction. They would leave a line of light wherever they had been waved in the darkness.

My ancestors came from Ireland, Germany and Italy  a mix that is quintessentially American.

But one part of our annual celebration was a visit from a couple who lived about an hour further north. Olaf, originally from Denmark, and Impi, originally from Finland, had been friends and coworkers of my mothers parents.

The men  Olaf, my uncle Jimmy and my dad  would spend the afternoon at the nearby Monmouth Park thoroughbred horse race track. The ladies  Impi, my aunt Mary, cousin Peggy, my sisters and I  would go to the beach.

Mom would be at home preparing what would become our own traditional holiday supper. No, it was not hotdogs and hamburgers. It was spaghetti and meatballs, served with my Italian grandmothers delicious tomato sauce.

Years later, after I was married and moved to Maryland, I enjoyed the Coleman family July 4 tradition. The guys would have traveled to the airport to pick up at the live lobsters  poor babies  that had been flown in from Maine.

My celebration this year will be quiet. Just me and my patriotic tabby cat Louie. If I can find them, I will buy some sparklers for my own celebration.

I might raise a glass to Thomas Jefferson, to thank him for writing that so very important Declaration of Independence. In what seems a fitting but fairly amazing coincidence, Thomas Jefferson died July 4, 1826.

Happy, happy 4th of July!

More Kate: June is a love song, sweetly sung!

This article originally appeared on The Herald-Mail: Fireworks, sparklers, picnics and fun  how will you celebrate?
Human remains were found at a home where a Ga. man was last seen. Now, two are charged with murder

Two people are facing murder charges in connection to a Georgia man who was reported missing last month.

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It was on June 12, when the East Dublin Police Department said James Douglas Doug Wilkinson, 58, of East Dublin was reported missing by family members.

Police said he was last seen on June 1. Wilkinsons silver Nissan Titan pickup truck was left at a home on Ralph Keen Road in Laurens County.

On Jun 23, around 12:30 p.m., East Dublin police requested the Georgia Bureau of Investigation to do a search warrant at the home of Edwin Wilkinson, 60, and Leslie Young, 55, both of Laurens County.

The home is in the 800 block of Ralph Keen Road.

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While searching the property, investigators said they found human remains believed to be James Wilkinson. Officials have sent the remains to a lab to positively identify the remains and the cause of death.

Officials arrested Edwin Wilkinson and Young.

Edwin Wilkinson is facing charges of malice murder, felony murder, aggravated assault, possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, and concealing the death of another.

Young is charged with party to a crime for the following: malice murder, felony murder, aggravated assault, possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony, and concealing the death of another.

Authorities have not revealed the relationship between the victim and the suspects.

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The investigation is active and ongoing. Anyone with information regarding this case is urged to contact the GBI regional investigative office in Eastman at 478-374-6988.

IN OTHER NEWS:
Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine Dmytro Kuleba

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban thinks only of receiving EU funding, which allows him to maintain political stability in Hungary, Ukraine's Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba said in an interview with German news outlet Bild on June 30.

Following Orbans comments on June 27 that "Ukraine is no longer a sovereign state, Kuleba noted that the statement is a "distorted interpretation of reality" caused by the Hungarian government's inner fears of daunting challenges within their own country.

Read also: Hungary continues to hold 11 Ukrainian POWs incommunicado, claims Ukrainian Foreign Ministry

"Hungary is desperately fighting for EU funds to maintain its macro-financial stability and avoid unrest in the country," the minister said.

Read also: Hungarys Orban claims Ukraine economically defunct country, Ukraines MFA reacts

Orban has repeatedly made pro-Russian statements in regard to Russias full-scale war against Ukraine. He also vocally supported a so-called Chinese "peace proposal, which was heavily criticized by the Ukrainian government as simply a proxy for Russian interests.

Additionally, Hungary is also believed to be detaining eight Ukrainian prisoners-of-war after receiving them from Russia without informing the Ukrainian government  an act some experts believe to be a war crime.

Read also: Kuleba calls on Germany not to block Ukraine's accession to NATO

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
I'm an American who's been living in Paris for 5 years. Here are 8 things that have most surprised me about living in the French capital.

I grew up in the US, but I moved to Paris when I was 25 years old. Antoine Antoniol/Getty Images

I'm an American who's lived in Paris for the past five years.

My time here has brought countless surprises, including affordable healthcare and very long lunches.

Many locals look stylish around the clock, which inspired me to build a capsule wardrobe.

Shortly after I turned 25, I asked myself: "If you could live anywhere, where would it be?"

The answer was always Paris. Growing up in the US, I'd taken French classes from sixth grade through college. The language and the culture were always on my radar, so I decided to take the leap. Et voila! Five years later, my American cat and I are still in Paris full-time.

Here are eight things that have surprised me about life in the French capital.

Locals rarely wear athleisure, and their elevated style has inspired me to build my own capsule wardrobe.

The garments I've added to my wardrobe since moving to Paris are versatile, simple, and timeless. Amanda Rollins

In Paris, I rarely cross paths with people wearing sweatpants or leggings in public, which is a stark contrast to my experience in the US.

Most people in the French capital seem to put effort into their appearances and dress one step above what I'd consider casual in the US, even if they're making a quick run to the grocery store.

I see a lot of tailored trousers paired with plain sweaters and scarves. People also dress up jeans with loafers or crisp white sneakers and tailored jackets.

In the US, I had three fashion modes: going-out clothes (crop tops, jeans, and heels), athleisure (leggings, colored sneakers, and tank tops), and office attire (slacks, loafers, and silky blouses). On Saturdays, I was dressed for either the bars or the gym. There was really no in-between.

Living here has improved my sense of style and helped me take pride in how I present myself.

My new wardrobe consists of smart, simple pieces I can wear during the day and in the evening. I've developed a uniform of sorts, mixing trousers, jeans, white sneakers, silk maxi skirts, plain T-shirts, tailored jackets, and lots of black pieces.

Getting dressed is easier with a capsule wardrobe  I feel ready for anything when I leave the house.

In Paris, lunch can be a production that lasts two or more hours.

People read, socialize, and drink at cafes for hours at a time. Amanda Rollins

The first time I went to lunch with my colleagues in Paris, we stayed at the restaurant from noon until 2 p.m. Everyone ordered a three-course meal that included appetizers, entrees, desserts, and coffee.

In the US, I got used to grabbing a quick salad and inhaling it at my desk while working, so I had to adjust to this slower pace.

I quickly learned that long lunches filled with conversation are very common in Paris. As much as I appreciate this mindset, I'm not a big lunch person. So, I've started declining invites to avoid being there for hours at a time.

Gym culture doesn't seem as prominent in Paris as it does in some US cities.

Many people run outside along the Seine instead of working out inside. Shutterstock

When I was living stateside, it seemed I was always asked where I worked out, not whether I worked out. And I'd regularly go to the gym first thing in the morning.

Though new gyms and studios have cropped up in Paris in recent years, the fitness scene doesn't feel nearly as prominent here as it does in the US.

I joined a gym when I arrived purely out of habit, but I've since changed my routine. Now, I go on a leisurely jog along the Seine a few times a week instead.

Many Parisians I know walk a ton and lead active lifestyles, even if they aren't in the weight room at 6 a.m. Although I'm exercising less here in Paris, I've never felt healthier.

It's not a stereotype  many Parisians pick up a fresh baguette every single day.

Don't be surprised if you see Parisians chomping on a baguette as they walk home from work. Shutterstock

Baguettes are a way of life here. Bread is a component of almost every meal and is meant to be eaten with the main courses, not beforehand as an appetizer like it is in the US.

Most baguettes in France contain just flour, water, yeast, and salt. There are no preservatives, meaning they can go stale in a short amount of time. It's not uncommon for people in Paris to buy a fresh baguette every day.

With boulangeries selling them for less than 2 euros a pop, who can blame them?

The legal drinking age is lower in France than it is in the US, and the culture surrounding alcohol feels different here.

People seem to approach drinking differently in France. Klaus Vedfelt/GETTY IMAGES

The legal drinking age in France is 18, which could play into the mindset I've noticed surrounding alcohol here.

Drinking is part of France's culture, and based on what I've seen, the focus isn't on getting drunk the way it can be in the US, where people can't legally purchase or consume alcohol until they're 21. It's about socialization.

Of course, I've seen my fair share of locals overdo it since moving to Paris (and people's drinking habits vary the same way they do around the world), but jungle-juice parties, drinking games, and vodka-soaked watermelons don't seem to be as popular among people in their 20s here.

Inebriation feels like a byproduct of drinking in Paris rather than the purpose of it.

My pharmacist handwrites instructions on prescription boxes.

Sometimes their handwriting can be difficult to read. Amanda Rollins

The first time I picked up a prescription in Paris, the pharmacist took a pen and wrote instructions on the box herself. I thought I was on an episode of "Punk'd."

My name and information weren't included on the box, and the only way I knew how much to take was by reading her handwritten cursive  which was in French and somewhat hard to read.

In the US, pill boxes tend to have all the relevant information  such as the patient's name, birth date, and dosage instructions  printed in giant letters.

People can smoke inside in a lot of Parisian nightclubs, and I've seen some light up inside house parties.

Ashtrays are on almost all cafe tables in Paris. Shutterstock

Before I moved to Paris, I was aware of the stereotype that French people are big smokers. I half expected it to be false (as so many cliches are), so I was surprised to find that cigarettes are actually very common here.

Walk down a busy street in Paris around noon, and you will pass dozens of Parisians smoking before lunch. Grab a seat at a cafe, and you will find an ashtray on the table. Have a drink with a friend on a terrace, and you may sit directly next to someone ready to pull out a cigarette.

Smoking is prohibited in enclosed public places, workplaces, and public parks, so I didn't expect so many nightclubs to have designated-smoking rooms inside. I've also noticed that it's completely normal for people to light up at crowded concerts.

I've seen plenty of locals smoke inside at house parties in Paris (usually by a window or in a bathroom, to be fair), which I rarely, if ever, saw happen in the US.

The smoking here put me off in the beginning  partly because I have asthma  but after nearly six years in Paris, it doesn't bother me as much anymore.

Because of France's social security, I spend significantly less on healthcare than I did in the US.

I avoided hospital visits in the US, but I don't hesitate to get checked out in France. Getty Images

The most surprising thing about moving to Paris was the realization that healthcare costs significantly less here than it does in the US, where steep copays and premiums are par for the course. Of course, I knew about France's healthcare system before I relocated, but it was something altogether different to experience it firsthand.

The US has a mixed healthcare system that doesn't provide universal coverage, so it was quite the change to see France's social security, a government-funded healthcare system, cover every person who permanently resides in the country.

Everyone in France contributes to social security, so it isn't free, but the healthcare system reimburses most medical costs. Since moving to Paris, I've rarely paid out of pocket for doctor visits and medications. If I wanted to, I could also enroll in supplemental health insurance provided by private companies, which some people in France do.

I got sick in the winter of 2017 and begrudgingly went to the emergency room in Paris because I was having trouble breathing. If I were in the US, I probably would've avoided going at all costs because of how expensive hospital bills can be.

When I protested the physician's request for chest X-rays (a force of habit, as X-rays can cost thousands of dollars in the US), she responded by telling me that it would be covered by social security. That was the moment I understood what universal health coverage really meant.

Since I've moved to France, I always do the tests and see the specialists as soon as I have a health concern. Here, looking after my health is not a luxury I have to budget for.

Read the original article on Insider
Independence Day: Fourth of July facts you may not know

Independence Day: Fourth of July facts you may not know

Each year, barbecues, yard games, concerts, parades and fireworks displays are all traditions for Americans celebrating the Fourth of July in the United States.

The day is celebrated to mark the nation's birth after becoming independent of Great Britain.

Here are some fun facts that you may not know about the Fourth of July.

The first Fourth of July fireworks came in 1777.

JULY 4TH QUIZ! HOW WELL DO YOU KNOW YOUR FACTS ABOUT INDEPENDENCE DAY?

Independence was not declared on July 4th 26 original copies of the Declaration of Independence still exist George Washingtons reading of the Declaration of Independence on July 9, 1776, led to a riot in New York City, resulting in King George IIIs statue being torn down After the attack on Pearl Harbor, the Declaration of Independence, U.S. Constitution and other documents were secretly stashed at Fort Knox during World War II 56 men signed the Declaration of Independence, but many of them never became famous The Fourth of July wasnt made a federal holiday until 1870 The first Fourth of July fireworks were in 1777 The oldest Fourth of July parade is in the smallest state

FOURTH OF JULY: MEDIA'S HISTORY OF BASHING AMERICA, SYMBOLS OF DEMOCRACY

Fourth of July is celebrated with parades, concerts, fireworks and more.

July 4, 1776, is significant because that is the day Congress officially adopted the Declaration of Independence document. However, the second Continental Congress actually voted for independence on July 2.

READ ON THE FOX NEWS APP

In a letter to his wife, Abigail, John Adams predicted that future generations would celebrate July 2 as Independence Day, saying, "The second day of July, 1776, will be celebrated by succeeding generations as the great anniversary festival. It ought to be solemnized with pomp and parade, with shows, games, sports, guns, bells, bonfires, and illumination, from one end of this continent to the other, from this time forward forevermore."

After the Declaration of Independence was adopted, the "Committee of Five," which consisted of Thomas Jefferson, John Adams, Benjamin Franklin, Roger Sherman and Robert R. Livingston, was responsible for the reproduction of the approved text.

On July 5, Philadelphia printer John Dunlap sent out all the copies he made to newspapers across the 13 colonies, in addition to commanders of the Continental troops and local politicians. There were initially hundreds of copies known as "Dunlap broadsides," but only 26 of them survive today and are mostly exhibited in museum and library collections. One of the most recently discovered "Dunlap broadsides" was found by a Philadelphia man in the back of a picture frame that was purchased at a flea market for $4 in 1989.

The Declaration of Independence was signed in 1776.

EVERYTHING YOU NEED FOR A PATRIOTIC FOURTH OF JULY

When one of the "Dunlap broadsides" arrived in New York City on July 9, 1776, George Washington, who was the Commander of the Continental forces in New York at the time, read the document to the crowd in front of city hall. Many of them cheered and tore down a statue of King George III nearby. The statue was later melted down and used to make tens of thousands of musket balls for the American army.

After the attack on Pearl Harbor on Dec. 7, 1941, Secret Service Agent Harry Neal was tasked with transferring "priceless historical documents" to a secure facility away from Washington, D.C. After meeting with librarian Archibald MacLeish at the Library of Congress, Neal orchestrated the logistics of how they would discreetly transport the documents out of D.C. to Fort Knox, which is near Louisville, Kentucky. Abraham Lincolns Gettysburg Address, the Gutenberg Bible and the Articles of Confederation were also stored in some of the cases at Fort Knox. The Declaration was returned to Washington, D.C., in 1944.

Signers of the Declaration of Independence like John Adams and Thomas Jefferson went on to dedicate their lives to public service and serve as the second and third presidents of the United States, respectively. However, several of the signers are only remembered by history, such as Button Gwinnett of Georgia and New Hampshires Josiah Bartlett, whose name was used with a slightly different spelling, as Martin Sheens presidential character in "West Wing."

Different Fourth of July celebrations occur across the United States.

Even though Fourth of July celebrations have occurred for many years, it wasnt made an unpaid federal holiday until 1870. It wasnt until 1941 when the holiday was added to the list of paid holidays for federal employees.

The first Fourth of July fireworks were set off on July 4, 1777. On this day, fireworks were lit in Philadelphia and Boston. Over the years, setting off fireworks has become a popular Fourth of July tradition with displays all across the country.

Bristol, Rhode Island, is home to the oldest Fourth of July parade in the country. The first ever Bristol Fourth of July parade was in 1785.
India and China are buying new tanks designed to fight on one of the world's highest battlefields

Tanks pull back from the Pangong Tso lake region in Ladakh along the India-China border in February 2021. Indian Army via AP

Three years after a deadly clash, India and China's disputed border in the Himalayas remains tense.

Both sides are beefing up their presence there, basing more troops and building more infrastructure.

Both countries are also investing in new light tanks designed for high altitudes and rough terrain.

Three years after the first deadly clash on India's and China's disputed Himalayan border in decades, the region remains tense.

Repeated rounds of talks over disengagement have failed, and Chinese and Indian soldiers were wounded in another brawl in December. Both countries continue to build up military forces and infrastructure around hotspots on the border.

An important part of that buildup has been China's deployment of light tanks, which can maneuver well on mountainous terrain and deploy quickly in large numbers. Their presence has exposed shortcomings in the Indian military's armored inventory, which relies heavily on main battle tanks that struggle in high altitudes.

Consequently, India is planning to developing its own light tank to level the playing field.

Light tanks

A US Army M24 Chaffee light tank near Bologna in April 1945. Galerie Bilderwelt/Getty Images

Light tanks are intended to provide direct support to infantry against enemy positions and light armored vehicles rather than square off against enemy tanks on their own. Their design puts an emphasis on speed and maneuverability at the cost of armor and firepower.

Interest in light tanks is growing and isn't limited to India and China  the US and Japan are also reinvesting in the concept  but China's and India's need is especially pronounced, as the terrain separating them is particularly difficult for main battle tanks.

This was proved in 2020 and 2021, when, as a result of a deadly border clash in Ladakh that killed 20 Indian soldiers and at least four Chinese soldiers, both countries deployed armored units to parts of the Himalayas with altitudes of 11,000 feet and higher.

The low air pressure at those altitudes hindered the performance of tank engines, and freezing temperatures forced soldiers to turn their armored vehicles on for up to 30 minutes every two or three hours to prevent engine components from freezing. Heavier vehicles also had trouble with the terrain.

Despite the difficulties for armored vehicles, neither side is willing to deploy troops to the area without them, largely because of the important role tanks still play on the battlefield.

The Type 15

A Type 15 tank on display at the Beijing Exhibition Center in October. NOEL CELIS/AFP via Getty Images

China has coped with these issues by deploying its Type 15 light tank, one of the few modern light tanks produced in the 21st century.

Unveiled in 2016, the Type 15  also known as the ZTQ-15  is billed as a lighter, cheaper alternative to heavier, more complex tanks produced by Russia or Western countries. Weighing in at 33 tons to 36 tons, depending on its load, the Type 15 is considerably lighter than China's 41-ton Type 96 tank and 55-ton Type 99 tank and less than half as heavy as recent versions of the US-made M1 Abrams.

The Type 15 reportedly entered service in 2018, though it first appeared publicly as an in-service tank in 2020 during the military parade for the 70th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China. China's military is believed to have about 500 in service.

A Type 15 tank on display at the Beijing Exhibition Center in October. NOEL CELIS/AFP via Getty Images

Its 105 mm rifled gun is equipped with an autoloader and it has an ammo capacity of 38 rounds. Its secondary armament comprises a remotely operated 12.7 mm heavy machine gun and 40 mm automatic grenade launcher. It has a top speed of 43 mph on paved roads and 25 mph off-road.

The tank is made of standard steel but is fitted with explosive reactive armor blocks on its turret and sides. It can also be equipped with a Chinese-made active protection system.

The Type 15 is equipped with a suite of modern electronics, including a laser range finder, nighttime and thermal optics, a warning sensor system, satellite communications, and inertial and satellite navigation systems.

In addition to its weight, the Type 15 has other features that make it suitable for mountainous operations. Its hydro-pneumatic suspension allows it to aim its gun higher or lower than standard tanks, which is useful for targets at high elevations. It also has oxygen generators, which help the engine run at high altitudes.

Project Zorawar

Arjuna tanks in the Republic Day Parade in New Delhi on January 26, 2023. Ajay Aggarwal/Hindustan Times via Getty Images

India's army hasn't had a light tank in service since its Soviet-designed PT-76 was retired in 1989.

Instead, it relies almost exclusively on its heavily armored T-90 and T-72 tanks, which weigh 43 tons and 46 tons, respectively, and its Arjun series main battle tanks, which weigh between 58 tons and 68 tons. Those tanks were acquired with Pakistan in mind, and they are better suited for open plains and deserts.

India has tried on and off since 1983 to develop a new light tank but has never settled on a model. The Ladakh clash in 2020  followed by a Chinese military buildup in which the Type 15 operated with comparative ease  prompted new action to acquire a light tank. (One retired Indian general even argued that a lack of light tanks hindered India's ability to deter Chinese aggression in the first place.)

In 2021, the Indian Ministry of Defense requested information from industry about the production of 350 light tanks, each weighing no more than 25 tons and crewed by two to three people. Additional requirements included an autoloader, a remote-controlled machine-gun, the ability to fire "smart munitions" and anti-tank guided missiles, and the ability to add explosive-reactive-armor blocks.

An Indian army convoy on a highway leading to Ladakh in June 2020. REUTERS/Danish Ismail

Initially, there was speculation that India might buy the 2S25 Sprut-SD from Russia, which has repeatedly offered to transfer the technology needed to build it. But the Indian government has indicated that it wants a domestic design, in line with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's "Make in India" policy.

Late last year, India's Ministry of Defense approved the purchase of 315 tanks, which will compose seven regiments. Indian media has reported that India's army may increase the order to nearly 700 tanks.

Indian multinational firm Larsen & Toubro was announced as the government's development partner in September, and the company was awarded the contract for the first prototype in April. It will feature an 800-horsepower engine made by a German subsidiary of Rolls Royce and a 105 mm gun turret made by a Belgian firm.

Indian officials have said that the first tanks will be ready for trial testing by the end of this year and that the initial order will number 59 units.

In what may be a reflection of the opponent the Indian army has in mind for its new light tank, the effort has been called "Project Zorawar," in reference to Zorawar Singh, a general who conquered Ladakh from Chinese rulers in the early 19th century.

Read the original article on Business Insider
Segredo Aldeia rums are made from sugarcane and jaggery

Whenever Rahul Nair orders a daiquiri or a dark 'n' stormy at a craft cocktail bar in India, he pays close attention to his drink.

The 32-year-old graphic designer says that he likes to ask the bartender about the rum added to his cocktail, or still better, try and guess the brand of the rum himself.

And that's because in the past couple of years, a host of homegrown brands - like Short Story, Maka Zai and Camikara - have been sprucing up India's rum scene in remarkable ways.

They're experimenting with the way the spirit is made, its flavour profile and the ways it can be enjoyed, pushing consumers to get curious about rum and ditch stereotypes they might have about the spirit.

For long, rum has been relegated to the bottom shelf of bar cabinets around the world with whiskeys, cognacs and gins taking prime slots. In India, rum has been a popular drink because it's cheap and easily available. But it's not a spirit that has seen a lot of experimentation.

But this is changing as rum undergoes a revolution or sorts, mainly because of rising incomes in big cities and people being open to experimenting with their alcohol.

"Distillers are innovating with the spirit like never before - even in countries like Japan, Thailand and Malaysia - which are conventionally not associated with rum making," says Arijit Bose, a mixologist and founder of Countertop India.

India is one of the fastest-growing alcoholic beverages markets globally, with an estimated market size of $52.5bn in 2020, according to the Indian Council for Research on International Economic Relations.

Rum contributes 11% to the total volume.

The spirit has its roots in the Caribbean - slaves working on sugar plantations discovered that molasses could be used for making alcohol, but colonisation and trade took the spirit to countries around the world.

In India, Old Monk has been the most popular rum brand for decades. This inexpensive, sweet dark spirit has come to define what rum should taste like for generations of Indians. But this is changing now.

Many of India's homegrown rums work well in cocktails

Siddharth Sharma's Piccadilly Distilleries is putting a spin on things by making rum in the rhum agricole or French style - their limited-edition 12-year-aged Camikara, launched in December, is made from sugarcane juice (grown in their own fields) rather than molasses.

This is rather rare in India at the moment and to understand why, one has to first understand how a lot of rum available in the country is made, at least up until recently.

The more affordable rums are largely produced using a neutral spirit made from fermented molasses - a dark, viscous substance left behind after sugarcane juice is processed into sugar. Additives like sugar and caramel are added to give the spirit a more palatable flavour.

These rums can be mass-produced at low costs as the raw material is widely available, thanks to India's thriving sugar producing industry. But experts say that these rums lack the finesse and flavour more premium varieties made abroad offer.

Indian craft rum brands are giving molasses-spirit rums a flavourful boost by adding new ingredients to them like coffee and spices; some are blending in internationally-sourced aged rums to enrich taste. Then there are brands like Camikara, who are swapping the base spirit itself while also experimenting with the distillation and ageing process.

Third Eye Distillery's Short Story rum, which launched last year, gives consumers a taste of rums enjoyed in the Caribbean - a region known for making some of the finest rums in the world. Their white rum combines an Indian molasses rum with Jamaican, Trinidadian and aged Dominican rums.

Camikara is a 12-year-aged gold rum

Two years ago, Stilldistilling Spirits launched Maka Zai - one of the earliest homegrown brands experimenting with the spirit. Maka Zai offers a medium-bodied white rum with tropical notes and a blended gold rum that has a creamy texture.

"There are lots of stereotypes around rum - like it's only meant for winters or that the only way to drink it is with coke," says Kasturi Banerjee, founder of Stilldistilling Spirits. "We wanted to break these stereotypes and present rum as a sophisticated but fun drink to enjoy - in the form of cocktails or as is, like a cognac."

Fullarton Distilleries' Segredo Aldeia also hit the market two years ago and offers a white and cafe rum. Both are made from a combination of sugarcane and jaggery and their cafe rum is infused with roasted coffee beans sourced from southern India.

Billed as premium or "craft" offerings, all of these rums cost upwards of 1,000 rupees for a 750ml bottle ($12; 10) and can go up to 6,000 rupees. Though the price isn't as steep as a well-made whiskey, Indian rum makers say that it's still a massive shift from what consumers are used to paying for rum.

Yet, cost isn't the main challenge they're facing when it comes to expanding their customer base; rather, it's the lack of knowledge people have about rum.

"There are different styles of rum - French, Spanish and English being the main ones - and each of these styles are interpreted differently in different regions of the world," Siddharth Sharma, founder of Piccadily Distilleries, says.

But brands say that consumers have become a lot more comfortable experimenting with new alcohols, thanks to the gin boom that hit India a few years ago and left retail stores and bars flush with a vast range of homegrown craft gins.

Kasturi Banerjee, founder of Maka Zai

Restaurants and bars are also championing new alcohols by adding them to tasting events or stirring up new cocktails. This positive sentiment is encouraging international rum brands to bring their products to India as well.

French artisanal rum brand Plantation launched in India last year. Their range of double-aged rums (aged once in the country it represents and again in France) gives the consumer a taste of the rum styles of various countries in the Caribbean like Jamaica, Barbados and Trinidad; Pernod Ricard launched Havana Club 7 - a sophisticated aged Cuban dark rum - in India last year.

But despite all the experiments on home turf, critics say that India still has a long way to go before it can offer the world rums that are "craft" or premium in the true sense. And that's because making these rums is expensive and time-intensive.

A lot of the homegrown distilleries experimenting with rums at the moment are small-sized and lack the funds needed to set up primary distillation units (where molasses-based spirit is produced from fermented molasses).

They rely on local producers to get their base spirit - the foundation on which their rum is built.

"Primary distillation is key when it comes to making rum or whiskey," explains Mr Bose. "But it's hard to get a primary distillation license in India. And when you rely on an external source for your base spirit, you can't guarantee its quality," he says.

Secondly, like whiskey, rum too needs to be aged for a minimum of two years for it to get a deep, rich flavour. But warehousing is expensive; the barrels itself cost thousands of rupees, depending on the type of wood used.

But Mr Bose says that these brands are definitely helping start conversations around rum. And this, he says, is a giant leap in the right direction.

BBC News India is now on YouTube. Click here to subscribe and watch our documentaries, explainers and features.

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Natalia Humeniuk, Head of the Coordination Press Centre of the security and defence forces in Ukraine's south, has reported that heavy fighting is going on in the area of Antonivka bridge in Kherson Oblast; she said it was primarily counter-battery activity but did not provide any more details.

Source: Humeniuk on air during the national joint 24/7 newscast

Quote from Humeniuk: "Intense combat efforts are currently underway [in the area of Antonivka Bridge  ed.].

The focus is on counter-battery warfare, as our front line is peculiar in that it runs across the Dnipro River.

Moreover, its course is somewhat deformed due to the disaster when the Ruscists [Russian forces] blew up the Kakhovka dam."

Background: On 1 July, the ISW reported that the Russian troops could not oust the Ukrainian forces, numbering up to 70 people, from their fortified positions under the eastern span of the Antonivka Bridge.

Journalists fight on their own frontline. Support Ukrainska Pravda or become our patron!
Jews should leave Russia 'before it's too late,' says former chief rabbi of Moscow

Pinchas Goldschmidt, President of the European Rabbinical Conference. Sven Hoppe/picture alliance via Getty Images

The former chief rabbi of Moscow is urging Jews to leave Russia.

Rabbi Pinchas Goldschmidt himself fled the country following last year's invasion of Ukraine.

Russia on Friday labeled Goldschmidt a "foreign agent," citing his opposition to the war.

The former chief rabbi of Moscow is urging his fellow Jews to leave Russia immediately, warning that the country has fundamentally changed after the Ukraine invasion.

In a statement on Saturday, Rabbi Pinchas Goldschmidt, who himself fled the country in March 2022, noted that he had spent three decades supporting the Jews of Russia. But Goldschmidt, who now resides in Israel, said his coreligionists should get out too, having previously warned that they risk being scapegoated for the failure of Russia's "special military operation."

"Russia has changed its face," he said in a July 1 statement, as reported by The Jerusalem Post. "I call on the Jewish community to leave the country, before it is too late."

Goldschmidt, who began serving the Moscow Choral Synagogue in 1993 and now leads the Conference of European Rabbis, had previously called Russia's invasion of Ukraine a "catastrophe" for Jews in the region. Speaking to The Guardian last year, he also noted that Russia, like other countries, has a history of elites stoking antisemitism to "redirect the anger and discontent of the masses."

The rabbi's exhortation came after the Russian Justice Ministry on Friday declared him a "foreign agent," The Times of Israel reported.

In his statement, Goldschmidt argued that the label was a badge of honor, saying he is "proud to be on the right side of history and to join a distinguished list of people who oppose an unjustified operation and the harming of innocents."

Have a news tip? Email this reporter: cdavis@insider.com

Read the original article on Business Insider
The US president will meet King Charles III in London for the first time since he was crowned King. Here Mr Biden is seen with the then Prince of Wales at the Cop26 summit in Glasgow.

US President Joe Biden is to travel to the UK to meet King Charles and Prime Minister Rishi Sunak later this month.

It is the first time the US president will have met the King since the Coronation in May.

Mr Biden's overseas diplomatic trip - in which he will also travel to Lithuania and Finland - will take place from 9 to 13 July.

Buckingham Palace confirmed King Charles was due to meet the president at Windsor Castle on Monday, 10 July.

Mr Biden did not attend the King's coronation in May - but his wife, First Lady Jill Biden, and his granddaughter went instead.

The Bidens were at Queen Elizabeth's funeral at Westminster Abbey in September. On the eve of the funeral they attended a reception hosted by the King for world leaders.

His visit follows Mr Sunak's two-day trip to Washington in June, where both leaders discussed Ukraine, a post-Brexit economy and the pros and cons of Artificial Intelligence.

This month's meeting would "further strengthen the close relationship between our nations", the White House said.

Downing Street put out a similar statement, saying that Mr Biden's upcoming visit "reflects the strong relationship" between the UK and US.

"The prime minister looks forward to welcoming President Biden in the UK later this month," a No 10 spokesperson said.

"This reflects the strong relationship between the UK and US, building on a series of bilateral visits and meetings earlier this year.

"We'll set out further detail in due course."

Earlier this year, Mr Biden stopped in Belfast to mark the 25th anniversary of the Good Friday Agreement, and briefly met Mr Sunak.

After the UK, the US president will travel to Vilnius in Lithuania for the Nato summit, which takes place on 11 and 12 July.

On his final day, he will visit Helsinki, Finland for a US-Nordic Leaders Summit, where the focus of the talks is expected to be the Russia-Ukraine war.
WORCESTER - A Worcester Superior Court judge last week declined to dismiss the Worcester Diocese from a lawsuit that alleges the former program director of its city soup kitchen coerced a client into commercial sex.

In a brief, handwritten ruling June 29, Judge Valerie Yarashus denied the churchs motion to dismiss it from the case, but wrote that many of the claims may be appropriate for resolution prior to trial.

The ruling followed oral arguments May 5 in which the Diocese argued it should be dismissed from a lawsuit filed against William Riley, former director of its St. Johns Food for the Poor program, regarding allegations he abused his position to coerce the plaintiff, Nicole Bell, into commercial sex.

Nicole Bell

Bell - a former client of the pantry who until recently led a nonprofit advocating for prostituted women - alleged in 2022 that Riley coerced her and others into commercial sexual activity in exchange for program resources.

Her lawsuit alleges the diocese and its leaders knew or should have known about allegations regarding Riley for years, did nothing to probe them and, when confronted with them formally, commissioned a biased report aimed at mitigating liability.

Riley has denied the allegations in court documents. The church - which is not representing Riley - argued on May 5 that it should be dismissed from the case for multiple reasons, including arguing it was not brought within the statute of limitations.

Robert Pierce, a lawyer for the diocese, pushed back against a claim that its investigation of the allegations was biased by revealing that its investigator found it was credible that Riley was improperly having sexual relations with not only the plaintiff (Bell) but others.

The church, prior to the lawyers statement, had blacked out the conclusions of its report regarding Riley from a version of its probe it released to the public.

That document left unredacted conclusions that absolved church leaders, including St. Johns Rev. John Madden, of wrongdoing.

While the churchs initial motion to dismiss Madden, itself and other church leaders from the lawsuit was denied June 30, it could renew such an effort as part of a pre-trial motion called summary judgment.

Such motions are more substantive and typically involve information gleaned from depositions and other evidence exchanged between lawyers during the pre-trial process.

In her June 30 ruling, Yarashus noted that her denial came using the standard the court must apply when evaluating motions to dismiss - a standard that requires a judge to generally accept the allegations in a lawsuit as true.

Yarashus added that many of the claims in the motion may be appropriate for resolution under the separate, summary judgment process.

Diocese spokesman Ray Delisle said Sunday that the church, under policy, does not comment on active litigation.

The Telegram & Gazette sent an email to Bells lawyer Sunday offering comment.

This article originally appeared on Telegram & Gazette: Judge declines Worcester Diocese request to dismiss it form lawsuit
The author. Courtesy of Ellen Ranta Olson

I had my first child in 2016 when mom influencers were starting to be a thing on Instagram.

I felt like I was failing as a mom and found more comfort in a Facebook group.

People are in the comments helping each other, whether to find formula or leave an abusive partner.

When I gave birth for the first time in September 2016, the Instagram mom aesthetic was at its peak. Everyone in my feed was pregnant and over the moon. The playrooms were Montessori, the onesies were beige, babies were sleeping in large wicker baskets, the moms were "blissed out" and "#blessed," and any hint of a complaint was met with a chorus of "you got this, mama" in the comment section.

Meanwhile, I spent my maternity leave Googling "Does my baby hate me?" and crying in my car. I felt like the only mama in the world who did not, in fact, have it.

It wasn't until four years and another baby later, when we moved from our beloved neighborhood in downtown Phoenix to St. George, Utah, for my husband's job, that I discovered the antidote to Instagram's unattainable image of parenting in the most unexpected place  a private Facebook group.

Moms are helping other moms

With more than 10,000 members, the group is a wild hodgepodge of caregivers that cuts across demographics. There are the very vocal homeschooling moms; the teen moms who found themselves thrust into single motherhood while their ex-boyfriends leave for college; the veteran moms and grandmas who live to offer unsolicited advice; and the aggrieved moms who are always shocked and appalled at something someone else's child did.

But amid petty arguments, there's something a bit more heartening happening: the moms are helping the other moms. And this isn't the type of toxic positivity "help" that I'd grown so weary of  it is true communal care.

At the height of the formula shortage, the group became a situation room of sorts, with scores of women figuring out ways to feed each other's babies. When someone asks for advice on how to leave an abusive partner, the comment section is flooded with advice, resources, and offers to help. Spare bedrooms are opened up, rides are offered, and childcare is provided.

I found comfort

The group quickly became a lifeline for me, too, albeit in a less visible way. Isolated and depressed since the move, I found comfort in the way women spoke within the group, how they discussed the difficulties of parenting without ensconcing them in the guilt-ridden silver lining that is typically expected of mothers, and perhaps more than anything, I marveled at how easily they asked for help.

I thought of the group often during times of panic and overwhelm. When I had to leave my mom in the emergency room one day to go pick my kids up from school, I knew that if push came to shove, I could post in the group, and someone would come help. Someone would watch my kids or check in on my mom, and they wouldn't hold it over my head as a sign of my failings, my inability to do it all.

I never made the post and never actually asked for help, but something shifted in my mind that day  I realized that in lieu of an actual safety net, the women in our community had built one of our own.

Read the original article on Insider
Ruto said the government would push ahead with plans to plant 15 billion trees over 10 years (Simon MAINA)

Kenyan President William Ruto announced Sunday the lifting of a near six-year ban on logging, despite the concerns of environmental campaigners.

Ruto said the move was "long overdue" and was aimed at creating jobs and opening up sectors of the economy that rely on forest products.

"We can't have mature trees rotting in forests while locals suffer due to lack of timber. That's foolishness," he said at a church service in Molo, a town about 200 kilometres (120 miles) northwest of the capital Nairobi.

"This is why we have decided to open up the forest and harvest timber so that we can create jobs for our youth and open up business."

Ruto, who has positioned himself at the forefront of African efforts to combat climate change, said the government would push ahead with plans to plant 15 billion trees over 10 years.

The end of the ban is likely to delight saw millers and timber merchants who protested that it had caused major job losses.

The moratorium was imposed by the previous government in February 2018 in public and community forests with the aim of stamping out rampant illegal logging and increasing the nation's forest cover to 10 percent.

But Greenpeace Africa has warned that the decision would have "catastrophic environmental consequences".

"In Kenya, forests are home to rare and endangered species, and millions of local people depend on these forests for their livelihoods, relying on them for food and medicine," it said last month in a petition against the move.

"Since the Kenyan government imposed the ban on logging six years ago, significant progress has been made in forest protection and with combatting the climate crisis," it said.

"Lifting the ban will undo all our hard work, as it will open the floodgates to commercial and illegal logging solely driven by profit. Our forests will be at the mercy of sawmillers who have no regard for the consequences."

Forestry and logging contributed 1.6 percent to Kenya's economy last year, according to government statistics which also said the total forest cover was 8.8 percent in 2022.

str-txw/gw
Kuleba calls on Germany not to block Ukraine's accession to NATO

Dmytro Kuleba

Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba has called on German politicians not to hinder the NATO membership process for Ukraine, German newspaper Bild wrote on June 30.

Read also: Ukraines Western allies still searching for security solidarity month before NATO Summit

"Do not repeat the mistake Chancellor Merkel made in Bucharest in 2008 when she fiercely opposed any progress towards Ukraines NATO membership," Kuleba said in an interview with Bild.

This lack of determination from Merkel "opened the door for Putin to invade Georgia... and then eventually illegally annexing Crimea," the minister said.

If Ukraine isnt accepted into NATO following the end of the full-scale invasion, "it will be suicidal for Europe, Kuleba claimed, though noted that NATO can end the threat of Russian aggression against Europe by making Ukraine a NATO member.

"We'll take that burden on our shoulders," Kuleba said.

Ukraine's accession to NATO: What we know

Ukraine applied for NATO membership last September. Several NATO members immediately supported this move, while others were rather hesitant about it.

A NATO summit in the Lithuanian capital of Vilnius is scheduled for July 11-12. Ukraine expects for a clear sign of NATO's readiness to take it in.

However, while NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg said that NATO's door remains open for Ukraine, no official invitation should be expected yet.

In June, U.S. political news outlet Politico reported that Ukraine's partner nations are "still divided over nearly every element of how to respond to the request" for the security guarantees Ukraine requires following the end of Russias full-scale invasion.

Western countries may propose a security model akin to that enjoyed by Israel, prior to Ukraines membership in NATO, The Wall Street Journal wrote. This would expedite the transfer of advanced weapons and technology to Kyiv and act as a stepping stone towards eventual membership.

Ukraines President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has stated that he sees no reason to attend the Vilnius summit if Ukraines NATO membership is not on the table.

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Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine
Several buildings in Kyiv Oblast were damaged and one civilian sustained injuries during a Russian attack on the night of 12 July.

Source: Kyiv Oblast Military Administration on Telegram

Details: The administration reported that Russian drones did not hit any infrastructure facilities in Kyiv Oblast.

However, fragments of drones damaged three private houses in two of the oblasts districts.

A resident of one of the houses sustained an injury to his leg. He received medical treatment.

Previously: Russian forces launched Shahed drones on Kyiv Oblast on the night of 12 July, but Ukraines air defence shot them down.

Journalists fight on their own frontline. Support Ukrainska Pravda or become our patron!
There was a time when the U.S. Senate was known for its towering intellects and the courageous stands senators took without regard to their ability to get reelected. Those days are long gone, but remembering a time when the Senate was termed the Greatest Deliberative Body in the World offers hope that those halcyon days will return.

Bob Kustra

James Risen has written a book that takes us back to a time when intellect and integrity won out and an Idahoan by the name of Frank Church distinguished the work of the United States Senate.

The Last Honest Man: the CIA, the FBI, the Mafia and the Kennedys  and One Senators Fight to Save Democracy covers what Risen calls a watershed moment in the history of U.S. intelligence.

The two-time Pulitzer Prize-winning investigative reporter calls Church one of the greatest senators ever to serve the American people. His book reminds us of what it was like to have senators of Churchs stature as opposed to the middling talent too often seated in the body today.

In 1975, Sen. Frank Church chaired the Senate Select Committee to Study Governmental Operations With Respect to Intelligence Activities, better known as the Church Committee. It would take 16 months, 126 committee meetings and 40 subcommittee meetings, 150 staff members and 800 witness interviews to uncover assassination plots by the CIA, surveillance of civil rights activists by the NSA and the FBI and links between the Kennedy family and the Mafia.

The committee would expose mishaps by the CIA and the Mafia in attempts to assassinate foreign leaders that remind readers of the late Jimmy Breslins title for his book on the Mafia: The Gang that Couldnt Shoot Straight.

To add to the drama of the day, some of those implicated in illegal activity and called to testify before the committee would meet untimely deaths that could hardly be written off as natural causes. Churchs dogged determination to hold U.S. intelligence operations accountable would result in legislation and executive orders that would restore accountability to U.S. intelligence operations and have a lasting impact to this day.

Anyone wondering whether Church had the stomach for the tough and courageous stands necessary for his leadership of the Church Committee just had to reflect on his fierce opposition to the Vietnam War.

He challenged President Lyndon Johnson, the sitting president of his own party, as LBJ sent even more troops to Vietnam. Many of Churchs fellow Democrats were hesitant to take on LBJ, who didnt brook opposition to the war. But that didnt stop Church from publicly opposing the war for what he believed was a fight between Vietnamese factions that could not justify the loss of so many lives.

Risen has written his book at a time when one of the two major political parties in America has been hijacked by a twice-impeached former president of the United States who has sullied the reputation of the U.S. abroad, encouraged coarse and uncivil conversations in the public square and debased the political culture from coast to coast. Republicans have marched in lockstep with Trump as he viciously attacks those with whom he disagrees and creates false narratives that he feeds to his vulnerable followers.

How refreshing to read of a U.S. senator who called the shots as he saw them, who reached across the aisle to create a bipartisan consensus to the 1975 investigations and then stuck by his promises not to pull any punches and go public with the facts, even those that embarrassed his own party.

Frank Churchs bipartisan roots ran deep. Oddly enough for a liberal Democrat born and raised in his states capital, Church grew up admiring Republican Sen. William Borah of Idaho who was an isolationist opposed to U.S. entry into World War II.

Church, himself, would serve as an intelligence officer in the Navy during the war. Later in life, when he would oppose U.S. involvement in the Vietnam War that would claim the lives of 58,220 American soldiers, he would characterize Americas foreign entanglements like Vietnam as an example of an overextended national security state that engaged in conflicts abroad that he maintained were none of Americas business.

Churchs presidential aspirations complicated his role as the chair of a committee that was making its mark on Washington, and which required strong and courageous leadership undeterred by a presidential campaign. He grappled with doing both, but then postponed campaigning to focus on the investigation. No doubt, his standing in the field of 1976 candidates for the Democratic nomination for president campaign suffered by delaying campaign visits until he finished the business of the committee.

Sen. Church had to make some tough calls in chairing a committee that to this day is the gold standard for how integrity and courage should govern the business of congressional committees. John F. Kennedy may have authored Profiles in Courage, but he certainly couldnt author anything on marital fidelity, as the Church Committee would learn in its investigations. Some aspects of Kennedys personal life would prove embarrassing to the legacy of the fallen president and politically damaging to the Democratic Party.

Republicans on the committee, to whom Church promised fair and objective investigations, were intent on assuring that the Kennedy discoveries were not swept under the rug by Democratic partisans on the committee. Ignoring how news of Kennedy affairs and Mafia relationships might affect his party, Church stuck to his word and never swayed from his commitment to a fair and bipartisan investigation.

You dont have to read much of Risens book to ask in wonderment: What the hell happened to Idaho in the last four decades to wind up with two U.S. senators today who could only star in a book titled, Profiles in Submission? Submission, that is, to the followers of a twice-impeached president who dragged American politics into the gutter and taught those followers how to break laws and scoff at the norms of a democratic government that held this nation together for over 230 years.

Idahos Sens. Jim Risch and Mike Crapo fall in line with most Republican officeholders today who put their fingers in the air to see which way the Trump winds are blowing, assuring their silence even as the nations classified documents are stashed in the bathrooms of Mar-a-Lago.

A library of books has been written on all that has gone off track with our politics today, even before Trump disgraced the office of the presidency.

But not enough has been written about those moments in recent history when profiles in courage arose from the thicket of partisanship and abuse of power. James Risen has done just that by chronicling the inside story of Frank Churchs successful effort to rein in agencies of national security that were out of control.

I think back to my younger days when I admired Frank Church from the distance of my Midwestern roots and realize how instrumental he was in defining the public service as a noble effort, the highest of callings that had young people squarely in its sights. I dont have an ounce of regret for choosing my career path, and I hope this book will serve todays youth in showing the way to a career in the public service that will be as rewarding and fulfilling as that of Frank Church.

Bob Kustra served as president of Boise State University from 2003 to 2018. He is host of Readers Corner on Boise State Public Radio and he writes a biweekly column for the Idaho Statesman. He served two terms as Illinois lieutenant governor and 10 years as a state legislator.
At least 13 children killed by suspected measles outbreak in Sudans displacement camps, NGO says

At least 13 children have died in recent weeks during a suspected measles outbreak at internal displacement camps in Sudans White Nile state, amid conflict between the countrys two warring factions, according to an international medical NGO Sunday.

The situation is critical. Suspected measles and malnutrition in children are the most urgent health problems, the Sudanese branch of Medecins Sans Frontiere (MSF), or Doctors Without Borders, said.

In a series of tweets, MSF Sudan said: Sudans White Nile state is receiving increasing numbers of people fleeing the conflict. Nine camps are hosting hundreds of thousands, mainly women and children.

From June 6 to 27, the NGO treated 223 children with suspected measles in White Nile camps, it said, with 72  including the 13 who died  admitted to two clinics it supports.

We are receiving sick children with suspected measles every day, most with complications, MSF Sudan tweeted.

The NGO said it had received a total of 3,145 patients to the two clinics in the month of June, adding, as more people arrive, theres an urgent need to increase assistance, scale up services like vaccinations, nutritional support, shelter, water & sanitation.

The rainy season is approaching, and were concerned about a rise in waterborne diseases and malaria endemic to the area, MSF Sudan warned.

There has been a steep rise in Sudanese refugees since fighting between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) broke out on April 15. Nearly 2.8 million people have fled, according to data from IOM, the UN Migration Agency.

At least 2,152,936 people are estimated to have been internally displaced, while another 644,861 fled across Sudans borders into neighboring countries, according to the IOMs Displacement Tracking Matrix report published Tuesday.

For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com
Letters to the Editor: Fossil fuels must be phased out. How does investing in them make financial sense?

An oil pump at Chevron's Kern River Oil Field north of Bakersfield is seen on May 9. (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times)

To the editor: William Prezant, chair of the investment committee of the California State Teachers Retirement Board, argues that divesting California's pension funds of their fossil fuel stocks "essentially transfers shares to other investors who may be unwilling to engage companies about climate change."

Many other large investors have made this argument, but the evidence shows that engaging fossil fuel companies about climate change has accomplished very little. Just last week, when the Church of England divested, the archbishop of Canterbury explained that years of shareholder engagement simply hadn't made enough of a difference.

If California's public employee pensions still believe in shareholder engagement, I think they should prove that their interactions are making a difference. What efforts have they made, and what concrete results have been achieved?

I suspect that investors, even as large as these, are powerless to force fossil fuel companies to change.

It makes no fiduciary sense to invest in companies whose continued operation must be phased out for the survival of this planet. Prezant should seriously reconsider if these risky investments fulfill the mission to "secure the financial future of Californias public school teachers."

David Lappen, Santa Monica

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
Amanda Park Library distortions

I felt like I was reading political commentary needing fact checking in the article on potentially closing the Amanda Park Timberland library.

Timberland officials said that 89 people is all the library serves. But the K-12 school alone has 200 students. The library serves over 800 residents.

Timberlands website says the library earned Washington state and national awards for its unique design. However there were two major constructions flaws.

The article states $2 million has been spent since 2016. Most of that was to correct the two construction flaws. Treated lumber was not used for the posts supporting the elevated building and the entire rotting post foundation had to be replaced. The sole 50-foot ramp entrance was too steep and didnt meet Americans with Disabilities Act standards and had to be rebuilt.

To move the building to Randle as proposed, it will need to be separated into four pieces. Operations director Brenda Lane estimated that cost at between $200,000 and $250,000. Remember that poor estimate.

Numbers were reported saying book checkouts were down and downloadable checkouts have increased. But the Timberland system has a home library for each book. The AP library reopened after COVID with half the number of books it used to have, but the same books youve seen for years.

Libraries are pillars of a community. Base your decision on true facts, not misleading sound bites.

Charles McDonnell, Quinault

Breaking down employment barriers

A recent Olympian article reminds us that voters have no shortage of choice when it comes to local elections in 2023. But dont let long lists of candidates deter you from taking a chance on a candidate you may not know.

Jess Tourtellotte-Palumbo is an experienced employment counselor and trustee of the Olympia Education Foundation who has spent her career expanding opportunities for people with disabilities. Shes running for a seat on the Olympia School Board because she knows we need to do a better job bridging the gap between resources offered by K-12 and those offered by colleges like Evergreen, where she currently works.

Across the country, colleges and universities are starting to wake up to the fact that students who have been shut out of the workforce urgently need basic life skills training. Jesss platform is built around making equity a reality by providing these kinds of tangible, transformative benefits.

One of the reasons we are failing to provide those benefits is because the key players havent figured out how to work together. Jess has a road map for building the necessary coalition and is committed to turning that vision into reality.

Lets stop complaining about how no one wants to work anymore and figure out how to eliminate the barriers that prevent those who want and need to work from contributing to our economy.

Elizabeth Williamson, Olympia

Thurston Community Media is an important resource

In a partnership that has lasted more than 30 years, the League of Women Voters of Thurston County (LWVTC) just completed non-partisan primary election candidate forums with critical support from Thurston Community Media (TCMedia). Come fall, well go through the same process with general election forums, with the goal of providing voters with the information they need to be well informed when they fill out their ballots.

Thurstons non-profit local access television station, TCMedia, partners with LWVTC at every step of the forum process, from studio set-up and sound checks to producing, recording, and broadcasting the programs. Hit with COVID pandemic lock-down, TCMedia pivoted quickly, making it possible for the Thurston League to do candidate forums electronically.

Theres more, much more. TCMedia also manages public, educational, and governmental access resources and develops educational and governmental access programming for Thurston County. It also provides video production workshops and summer camps through its Young Producers Network program and training scholarships. For the general election, TCMedia offers all candidates an opportunity to be in its Video Voters Guide.

A recent study by the LWV of Washington found that without local news sources, fewer candidates ran for office, voter turnout decreased, there was an increase in mis- and dis-information, and government costs were higher. Please join us in our appreciation for TCMedia for the role it plays in protecting precious democratic processes in Thurston County.

Darlene Hein, President, LWVTC
These Levi's Archival Photos Show Us What Pride Looked Like in Years Past

men in levi's at Pride





Just like a good pair of blue jeans, Pride will never go out of style!

men in levi's at Pride

Stanley Stellar, Courtesy of Levi's

The power of Pride comes from its legacy, and Levis knows that.

People have been wearing Levis to Pride for decades, and this year, the company celebrated that legacy by sharing photos from decades past of its employees and wearers at Pride.

This years collection highlights self-expression as a spectrum, non-binary, and fluid, a press release reads. It features a lavender-hued color palette that salutes LGBTQIA+ activist groups of the 70s and 90s whose energy brought fearlessness to the gay rights movement and mirrors the cultural push forward by queer and trans youth today.

The Levis Pride 2023 campaign is a global celebration of the LGBTQIA+ community and its powerful history of genuine self-expression, said Lance Relicke, Vice President of Global Brand Experience at Levi Strauss & Co. From clubs to protests to Pride parades, wherever people gather in the name of love and inclusivity, so many of them will proudly show up in their Levis and 501 jeans. Theres so much genuine love for the Levis brand in the LGBTQIA+ community and were thrilled to reciprocate that love  all of the time, but especially during Pride 2023.

To celebrate this year, Levis not only has its Pride collection, but is donating $100,000 to Outright International, and is sharing these incredible archival pictures of people wearing Levis to celebrate Pride throughout the years. Check them out here.

two men embracing at Pride

Levi's Employees, Courtesy of Levi's

Levi's lesbian and gay employees at Pride

Levi's Employees, Courtesy of Levi's

People celebrating Pride

Levi's Employees, Courtesy of Levi's

Lesbian and Gay Employee Association of Levi Strauss at Pride

Levi's Employees, Courtesy of Levi's

Some of the pictures are also from photographer Stanley Stellar

a man at pride wearing levi's

Stanley Stellar, Courtesy of Levi's

men at pride wearing levi's

Stanley Stellar, Courtesy of Levi's

men in levi's at Pride

Stanley Stellar, Courtesy of Levi's

Men in Levi's at Pride

Stanley Stellar, Courtesy of Levi's
Ron DeSantis and Donald TrumpPhoto illustration by Salon/Getty Images

Allegations of media bias are ubiquitous among Republicans. When Donald Trump was asked in June about the federal prosecution against him for illegally retaining classified government documents, he attacked the "fake news" media for their "continuation of the witch hunt" against him "that's been going on for literally seven years."

Such attacks are hardly new for Trump, who in May reportedly became angry with questions from NBC News reporter Vaughn Hillyard about Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg's criminal investigation, tried to grab Hillyard's phone and then told aides to "get him outta here."

The assault on press freedom is also nothing new for the Republican Party. Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, now a presidential candidate, recently endorsed a legislative effort to curtail press freedom by designating anonymous news sources as "false" for legal purposes in defamation cases and eliminating the "journalist's privilege" protection, which shields reporters from having to identify anonymous sources in defamation lawsuits.

Related

America's mainstream media still wants to save the GOP  but that's impossible

Not to be outdone, Trump weighed in on the question of how to punish journalists, suggesting that reporters who published the leaked Supreme Court decision overturning Roe v. Wade should be prosecuted, incarcerated and then raped in prison.

These developments are part of a larger right-wing assault on media freedom and the right of journalists to critically report the news. These attacks are driven by the assumption that the media has a liberal bias, and is responsible for routinely purveying "fake news" and systematically manipulating the public as a result.

The response from much of the public, including the GOP base, is what one would expect, with rising distrust of the news media. Recent polling finds a majority of Americans agree that "the news media fuels political division," with 61 percent of Republicans, 36 percent of independents and 23 percent of Democrats agreeing that the media are "hurting democracy." Half of Americans think that national news outlets "intend to mislead, misinform, or persuade the public to adopt a particular point of view through their reporting."

My own research has uncovered little evidence of a pervasive liberal or pro-Democratic bias in the news. But as reporters acknowledge, there's a pro-official bias that privileges whichever party is in power.

These narratives warning of media manipulation and pernicious liberal bias can create a separate reality for much of the public, independent of whether there is evidence of any such pervasive bias in media content and effects. As a scholar of political communication, I've spent the last 20 years studying the question of media bias in politics. My own scholarly work, looking at decades of reporting on various public policy issues, has uncovered little evidence historically of a pervasive liberal or pro-Democratic bias in the news.

As reporters themselves acknowledge, and as I find in my research, it is more accurate to speak of a pro-official bias in the news, in which reporters privilege whatever party is in power in Washington at a given time. None of this evidence necessarily matters, however, when the prevailing narrative in American political culture  particularly among Republican officials, right-wing pundits and much of the public  is that the media is purveying biased "fake news."

Independent of this heated and incendiary rhetoric, it's worth looking at the facts. For example, in my own research examining more than 160 polling questions between the mid-2000s and the mid-2010s, I found virtually no evidence of liberal media effects for consumption of various outlets such as CNN and MSNBC, which are commonly attacked for their purported bias.

Consumption of news from MSNBC only had a significant association with liberal political attitudes on various questions 15 percent of the time, and that was true just 10 percent of the time for consumption of news from CNN. Rather, the primary culprit when it came to indoctrination effects was Fox News, with consumption of that channel's news significantly associated with holding right-wing beliefs 60 percent of the time, even after controlling for respondents' partisanship and ideology, among other factors.

These findings undermine claims about a pro-Democratic or liberal media bias in the years before Trump. But what about the period since he was first elected, which has generally been associated with more extreme partisan polarization? I updated my polling analysis to include the years of Trump's presidency  and the findings largely reinforce my previous research. Although there is certainly evidence of increasing polarization "on both sides," such polarization is still primarily a right-wing phenomenon, testifying to highly asymmetrical media effects that appear to favor GOP indoctrination efforts.

Examining polling from September 2019 and September 2020 from the University of Chicago's National Opinion Research Center (NORC) and the Pew Research Center, I looked at consumption of various media in relation to public opinion on political questions during the Trump era. I utilized statistical analysis to track how often consumption of CNN, MSNBC and Fox News was associated with respondents forming liberal and conservative political attitudes, after accounting for various factors, including respondents' ideology, partisanship, age, education, race, gender and income.

First of all, there is definitely reason for concern about "both sides" when it comes to the rise of echo chambers in American media. Clearly. liberals and Democrats are gravitating toward certain news sources, and conservatives and Republicans toward others. In the NORC survey, Democrats were significantly more likely to say they consumed CNN and MSNBC regularly, while Republicans were more likely to say they relied heavily on Fox News. Twenty-nine percent of Democrats said they relied "a lot" on MSNBC for their news, compared to just 3 percent of Republicans. Similarly, 36 percent of Democrats relied a lot on CNN, compared to 6 percent of Republicans. Alternatively, 44 percent of Republicans relied a lot on Fox News, compared to just 7 percent of Democrats. None of these trends are encouraging in a country that considers itself a democracy  at least if democracy requires an informed citizenry willing to consider different sources of information and views contrary to those they already hold.

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Beyond the echo-chamber question, there's the matter of whether consuming these venues has an indoctrination effect on viewers. Here the evidence suggests that Americans should primarily be concerned about the power of right-wing outlets like Fox News. Looking at both the NORC and Pew polls, I analyzed media consumption in relation to a battery of political questions. For the Pew poll, I examined attitudes about how well Trump responded to the COVID-19 crisis; opinions about how truthful Trump was in relation to conveying information about COVID; attitudes about the pro-Trump extremist movement QAnon; and attitudes about alleged mass voter fraud in U.S. elections.

The NORC survey fielded other political questions, including opinions about the overturning of Roe v. Wade; about efforts to repeal the Affordable Care Act; about laws barring employment discrimination based on sexual orientation; about government financial support for religious schools; about support for Second Amendment gun ownership rights and a ban on semiautomatic rifles; about whether business owners should be able to refuse services to LGBTQ+ individuals for religious (or "free speech") reasons; about whether Trump should have ended DACA protections for unauthorized immigrants; about same-sex marriage; about affirmative action in college admissions; about Trump's travel ban against immigrants from Muslim-majority countries; about private companies denying birth control to employees based on religious objections; about corporations and unions spending unlimited money in U.S. elections; about federal court decisions on partisan gerrymandering disputes; about Trump's job approval rating during the COVID crisis; and about voting preferences between Trump and Joe Biden in the 2020 election. With such a large set of questions, whatever pattern is uncovered should tell us a lot about alleged partisan indoctrination in the media.

What we see here, in fact, is dramatic evidence of partisan indoctrination in the news  and it's primarily a right-wing phenomenon. In just four of the 20 survey questions was consumption of CNN associated with forming liberal political attitudes, after statistically taking into account viewers' partisan and ideological predispositions. The findings were stronger for MSNBC, with consumption associated with holding liberal attitudes for nine of the 20 questions. This is certainly evidence of indoctrination in favor of liberal values, significantly more than I found in the previous decade.

What we see here is dramatic evidence of asymmetrical partisan indoctrination in the news media  and it's primarily a right-wing phenomenon.

But far and away the strongest evidence of indoctrination was observed among consumers of conservative media. Consumption of Fox News was associated with holding conservative opinions an overwhelming 90 percent of the time  in 18 of the 20 questions surveyed. That was a far higher rate than during the decade preceding Trump, when Fox News viewership was correlated with forming conservative attitudes 60 percent of the time. These results tell us that partisan indoctrination has become overwhelmingly asymmetrical in the Trump era.

If we are concerned about ideological and partisan echo chambers, we should reorient the national discussion about media bias to focus first and foremost on the primary culprits: right-wing media outlets such as Fox News. The evidence explored here calls into question Republican claims that the "liberal media" is the leading indoctrination force in American politics and communication today. That role is reserved for the GOP's primary arm of mass communication, Fox News, which is crucial in mobilizing the party base to support conservative political causes.

But we shouldn't only be concerned about indoctrination. There's also the question of rising support for authoritarianism, and of public outrage being stoked against specific media outlets seen as overly critical of Trump. That rising anger is what fuels the Republican attack on press freedom, an assault that should be deeply concerning to anyone with a basic commitment to freedom of expression and constitutional democracy.

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original research from Anthony DiMaggio
People, holding banners, stage a protest against energy crisis after electricity outages for long periods of time in Johannesburg, South Africa - 2023

South Africans are experiencing worsening blackouts as winter hits and the crisis is fuelling demands for political change in Africa's most-advanced economy.

Short presentational grey line

Wiseman Bambatha was indulging in wishful thinking when he named his business Goodhope upholstery.

Mr Bambatha re-conditions sofas and chairs in a dingy, one-room workshop in the sprawling Khayelitsha township on the edge of Cape Town.

But for hours on end, his battered, electric sewing machine sits idle. The power is off in Khayelitsha for eight or 10 hours almost every day. In South Africa they call it load-shedding.

Orders are not being met, customers are angry.

Wiseman Bambatha is waiting for the ANC to fulfil its promises

Mr Bambatha grimaces and admits his business is hanging by a thread. It is a story being replayed across the country.

In an already dysfunctional economy, with half of all young adults unemployed, load-shedding is a jobs killer.

"The government has been promising us a better life for years," says Mr Bambatha, surveying his potholed street, and a vista of corrugated shacks beyond. "Tell me, where is it?"

Khayelitsha is home to more than a million people. When night falls, and the power fails, it is enveloped in an eerie dark, punctuated by street-side braziers.

Cape Town already had the dubious distinction of being the murder capital of Africa - load-shedding and the absence of street lighting has added a new level of menace.

After sundown I meet Mr Bambatha's wife, Ruby, huddled on a sofa with her two young daughters, all of them illuminated by a flickering candle.

Ruby Bambatha and her children do not go out after dark

"I always try to get home before dark, get the kids inside and lock the door - only then I feel safe," she says.

And even in death, the power crisis is robbing South Africans of their dignity.

Juggling corpses

A man who runs a funeral parlour a couple of miles from Khayelitsha keeps bodies in a cold store behind his office.

"When the power is out for four hours we have a big problem," he says. "The corpses start to decompose, you can imagine the smell. This is not something grieving families can accept."

So the funeral director phones around his friends in the business. When he finds someone who has still got power and space in their cold store, he ferries his bodies to them.

Across Cape Town, corpses are being juggled every day in search of reliable power.

Load-shedding feels like the service delivery failure that could break the grip of the African National Congress (ANC) on power.

The specific reasons for the rolling blackouts are legion: obsolete coal-fired power stations; incompetent management at the state-owned energy company Eskom and rampant corruption.

But ultimately there is one stark political reality: the party of Nelson Mandela, which has monopolised power for 29 years since liberation from apartheid, owns this crisis.

"Load-shedding could be our Achilles heel. It could cost us our majority"", Source: Fikile Mbalula, Source description: ANC secretary-general, Image: Fikile Mbalula

I meet ANC Secretary-General Fikile Mbalula five minutes after power and light come back on at Luthuli House, the party's Johannesburg headquarters.

He used to revel in the nickname "Mr Fixit". No-one seems to call him that now.

"Load-shedding could be our Achilles heel," he acknowledges, with surprising candour. "It could cost us our majority."

South Africans go to the polls next year. The poll ratings of the ANC and President Cyril Ramaphosa have been on the slide for months.

The party is vulnerable as never before, but only if voters have a credible alternative.

The leader of South Africa's biggest opposition party, the Democratic Alliance (DA), is John Steenhuisen.

His Cape Town office gives clues as to the scale of his ambition. There are photos of former US President John F Kennedy everywhere.

In a further nod to his political hero, Mr Steenhuisen promises me he will put together a "moonshot coalition" of a dozen opposition parties to bring down the ANC.

But Mr Steenhuisen is white in a country where white people constitute just 7% of the population. Two-thirds of his party members are white. So too are 70% of the faces in South Africa's boardrooms.

No amount of DA talk about competence and meritocracy can mask the fact that South Africa is not a society that has left the trauma and systemic inequality of apartheid behind.

Photos of Simon's Town, near Cape Town, taken at night - with lights on (left) and during a blackout (right)

Which means that the most potent political force in the country right now may well be Julius Malema.

He was thrown out of the ANC more than a decade ago - party bigwigs told him to take anger-management classes following a slew of accusations of inciting race hate and violence.

He founded his own party, the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), committed to the nationalisation of land, the banks and the mines - in other words the key pillars of residual white economic power.

Mr Malema senses opportunity as the energy crisis worsens this winter.

"Let the grid collapse," he tells me. "I'm not wishing for it but it is going to happen, and then people are going to rise - I'm telling you there's going to be a revolution."

The ANC has managed, or mismanaged, South Africa for the last 29 years.

A day of reckoning is fast approaching, and it promises to be painful.
NAIROBI, July 2 (Xinhua) -- Ethiopian coffee, Madagascar's essential oil, Kenyan flowers and many other products from Africa are becoming increasingly popular among Chinese consumers in Changsha city, an important transportation hub in central China.

The third China-Africa Economic and Trade Expo which kicked off in the city on Thursday brought Chinese consumers products of high quality and low prices and has yielded win-win results. For African producers and traders looking for new export markets, the expo is a golden opportunity.

Over the past two decades, China-Africa trade has been steadily increasing, hitting a record high of 282 billion U.S. dollars in 2022. With the participation of about 1,500 exhibitors, the expo is expected to help China and Africa forge new cooperation and strengthen trade relations.

GREEN CHANNEL FOR AFRICAN PRODUCTS

To help African countries revive their economies after the COVID-19 pandemic, China continues to expand imports of African goods. China is the second largest destination country of African agricultural products. In recent years, the average growth rate of African agricultural exports to China has reached 11.4 percent.

Among the agricultural products, avocado is an example demonstrating the vigorous development of trade between China and Africa. Since last July, Kenya has exported more than 3,000 tons of fresh avocados to China, bringing more income to over 3,200 farmers. Local officials in the East African country expect to increase the exports to 100,000 tons annually in the coming years.

At the 8th Ministerial Conference of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation in 2021, China announced the establishment of a "green channel" for African countries' agricultural products entering China. Since then, more than a dozen African countries have been given approval to export agricultural products, such as citrus from South Africa and sesame from Tanzania, to China.

Through the China International Import Expo, the China-Africa Economic and Trade Expo, online shopping festivals and other platforms, China has been helping African products enter Chinese and global markets.

Bordering Kenya in the north, Tanzania is the second largest wine producer in sub-Saharan Africa after South Africa.

"The fair will be an opportunity for us to have our wines showcased on an international level, and our company is looking forward to more sales to China," said Archard Kato, managing director of Alko Vintages Company, a Tanzanian wine company that participated in the exhibition in Changsha.

The expo creates great opportunities for the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), which deems China a "privileged" and "strategic" partner, Congolese External Trade Minister Jean-Lucien Bussa Tongba told Xinhua in a recent interview.

"The DRC government prioritizes the diversification of its economy, which would also be a key message that I would share with Chinese investors. It corresponds to our internal need, the world market's need and certainly the need of the Chinese investors," he said.

According to official statistics, China's new investment in the DRC reached 500 million dollars in 2022, and the trade volume between the two countries amounted to 21.8 billion dollars in the same year. So far, China has granted zero tariffs on about 97 percent of products from the DRC.

VALUE-ADDED PRODUCTS

At the ongoing expo in Changsha, Chinese consumers could taste anchovies from Kenya for the first time. Locally known as "dagaa," the small fish caught in the Indian Ocean were processed, dried and packaged in a factory of Huawen Food (Kenya) Export Processing Zone Limited, a Chinese company based in Kenya's Kwale County.

Abdi Dura, a 30-year-old father of two, was born in a fishing family in a village on the shores of the Indian Ocean. "It is an exciting moment to witness the maiden export of anchovies to the Chinese market," Dura said. "Now that we have secured a new market for the small fish, we expect our income to increase and look forward to purchasing new fishing gear to help improve the volumes of our catch."

Salim Mvurya, cabinet secretary for the Ministry of Mining, Blue Economy and Maritime Affairs of Kenya, said the inaugural shipment of anchovies sourced from local fishermen to the Chinese market was "a historic moment for the country."

The blue economy will open new frontiers for Kenya-China cooperation, Mvurya said.

China has long prioritized poverty reduction and agricultural development in cooperation with African countries. Over the past years, China has sent agricultural experts to Africa and established more than 20 agricultural demonstration centers.

Chinese enterprises have established agricultural cooperative parks and agro-processing plants in African countries, using advanced technology, equipment and experience to help them increase crop yields and establish an agricultural industry.

In February last year, several Chinese enterprises signed cooperation agreements on the construction of preliminary processing plants for rubber, palm oil, cotton and other agricultural products in Cote d'Ivoire and other West African countries.

Now two plants of a Chinese rubber processing factory have been put into operation in Cote d'Ivoire, one of the leading rubber producers in the world, with an annual capacity of approximately 260,000 tons, equivalent to a quarter of the country's rubber production.

Brou Bonaventure, resource supervisor of the Ivorian Interprofessional Fund for Agricultural Research and Advice, said that before the Chinese company came to Cote d'Ivoire, local farmers did not have distribution and transportation channels, and were stuck with large and costly amounts of overstock and had to sell raw materials at low prices. Things are becoming better as the Chinese factory has provided stable and reasonably priced shipping channels for the farmers.

More and more young people working in big cities are returning home, where agricultural production, such as rubber cultivation, brings them more income, Bonaventure said.

CLOSER TRADE LINKS

Over the years, the economic and trade cooperation between China and Africa has witnessed steady progress, with the implementation of a number of projects via platforms such as the Belt and Road Initiative and China-Africa Economic and Trade Expo. Their close trade links have yielded win-win results.

According to China's Ministry of Commerce, China has remained Africa's largest trading partner for 14 consecutive years. The two sides have together constructed and commissioned over 10,000 km of railways, nearly 100,000 km of highways, and an array of important infrastructure including airports, docks, bridges and power plants.

In recent years, China-Africa cooperation has expanded from agriculture, infrastructure and manufacturing to new industries such as green economy, health, finance and digital innovation.

"We see the booming trade as a win-win situation which keeps growing," said South African Ambassador to China Siyabonga Cyprian Cwele. "And the massive growth in bilateral trade has been translated into direct benefits to our people."

Since the beginning of this year, many local governments in China have sent delegations to Africa or held forums on cooperation to enhance contacts with African countries.

Among them, Kenya intends to showcase investment opportunities in diverse sectors like the blue economy, affordable housing, manufacturing, digital superhighway, and agro-processing during the expo in Changsha, said Michael Ogutu, an investment promotion officer at the Kenya Investment Authority, at a promotional conference for the third China-Africa Economic and Trade Expo held last month in Nairobi.

Ogutu said the Kenyan government has created a conducive regulatory environment to attract capital, technology, and expertise from China amid the quest to realize people-centered economic transformation.

In the eyes of Zambian Minister of Commerce, Trade and Industry Chipoka Mulenga, the ongoing expo is a major platform for strengthening economic and trade cooperation between China and African countries.

"This opportunity that China has presented to Africa and many other countries is something that we do not want to be left out of," Mulenga said. 
After a decade of selling prints of his landscape photographs taken around the world, Mickey Shannon has published his first book and its dedicated to his home state.

Kansas is Beautiful is a 144-page, hardcover, 10 inch by 13 inch coffee table style book. Shannon, who grew up in Derby and now lives in Goddard, self-published the book. It retails for $64.99 and can be purchased directly from his website at mickeyshannon.com/ksbook as well as at select local bookstores and gift shops.

Another way to see his work is at Exploration Place in downtown Wichita. Museum staff invited Shannon to showcase nearly 30 of his images in their new gallery space outside the Dome Theater. The Kansas is Beautiful exhibition opened to coincide with the publication of the book in April and will be on display through at least the end of 2023.

Shannon is a self-taught photographer who bought his first real camera in 2007 and started to sell his prints in 2011. He operates Mickey Shannon Photography and also works in web development at Friends University.

He said he began envisioning publishing a book as early as 2015 but knew he wanted to self-publish to retain creative control of the project. That meant waiting until he could fund the printing of the initial 1,500 copies of the book, which was supported by sales of his fine art prints as well as financial assistance from a Koch Cultural Trust grant.

The book, which debuted in April of this year, features one of his best-selling images on the cover. Monument Rocks Milky Way Panorama was the result of at least three nighttime photo missions to Monument Rocks in western Kansas. If you look closely, youll see that Shannon appears in the photo under the arch of the massive chalk formation.

That one really catches peoples attention because theres a lot of dynamic to it, he said. Not only is it a panoramic of the Milky Way over Monument Rocks, but then on the right side of the photo there was a fireball that streaked across the sky. The fireball is really small in the photo because I just caught the tail. end of it. People always ask how I got the light; most think its a sun rise image but its actually the moon rising behind the Milky Way.

In addition to well-known Kansas landmarks like Monument Rocks and urban scenes including Wichita, Shannon also chose images from lesser-traveled locations where he captured backroads, wildflowers, waterfalls and other natural scenes. Within the books pages are images filling double page spreads with famous quotes as well as half-page images accompanied by stories behind how Shannon captured the photos.

Next to The Floodgates Open, a 2015 image taken after a heavy rainfall of a waterfall not far from Wichita, he writes: I shot this at Santa Fe Lake, just west of Augusta. This part of Kansas holds a special place in my heart. My grandparents owned a piece of land between Andover and Augusta, just southwest of Santa Fe Lake, where I spent much of my childhood. It wasnt until many years later on my quest to visit as many Kansas waterfalls as possible that I realized there was a waterfall at the lake.

Another included photograph is one that he said goes viral anytime he posts it online. In the story that accompanies Keeper of the Plains Lightning Bolt, he writes: The shot above taken in 2009 was one of my first award-winning images, having been a finalist in a photography contest with Smithsonian magazine. That summer was particularly stormy, so I spent a number of nights seeing what kinds of photographs I could get out there. At the time, I didnt own a lightning trigger, so I was photographing lightning manually hoping to get lucky. One night, I did. I couldnt have tried to frame the iconic Wichita statue within this lightning bolt any better.

Mickey Shannon says Keeper of the Plains Lightning Bolt was one of his first award-winning images.

Shannon attributes his success to continuing to evolve as a photographer and applying his expertise as a web developer to his photography website, mickeyshannon.com.

Growing up in Kansas and family trips to outdoor destinations in Colorado, Oklahoma and South Dakota stoked his interest in nature. Picking up a disposable camera in his late teens, Shannon found he had an eye for composing landscape photographs. Finally in 2007, while in college at Friends University, he bought his first digital SLR camera and began reading nature photography books.

Shannon said he spent most of a 2009 trip to the Swiss and French Alps taking photos and at the end of the vacation he knew he wanted to be a professional landscape photographer. He began selling prints of his work in 2011, and the decision in 2018 to focus on fine art prints of his photographs helped grow the business. His image Moraine Lake Sunrise Brilliance taken in Lake Banff National Park, Alberta, Canada, put him on the map among collectors, he said. But how did they find an image of this famous lake taken by a Kansas-based photographer?

Since I do web development in my day job, I understand how to get myself high up in Google searches, he said. Thats helped me build up a website that does very well on Google. If you search for Kansas photography, Im probably the first to come up. Im usually in the top three if you were to search Colorado photography or Hawaii photography, and thats really helped people find me.

The Moraine Lake image is his top seller, followed by Golden Light in the Flint Hills, a sunset view of green, rolling hills to the east of Tuttle Creek Lake near Manhattan.

I took that in the summer of 2020 or 2021, Shannon said, and it took me a few months to even process those images because I didnt think they were going to be that great. Once I did, I thought that one was really good and it has turned out to be one of my best-sellers. I have buyers for that one not just in Kansas, but all over the country. They might be people from Kansas who moved, Im not sure, but its nice to know that people in other parts of the country also think Kansas is beautiful enough to hang my print on their wall.

That print is one of the few limited editions within Shannons Kansas collection. He prefers to keep his Kansas images as open editions  meaning there is no limit to how many hell print and sell  to make them more accessible to anyone who wants to purchase. Open editions can be purchased in smaller sizes and cost less than a limited edition. As an example, a 24x16 print of the limited edition Moraine Lake Sunrise Brilliance has only 200 prints available and starts at $350 depending on the type of media the customer chooses for the print. An open edition Keeper of the Plains image in the same size starts at $280 depending on the print type selected.

Having a number of limited editions in his portfolio has helped Shannon qualify for showing and selling his work at fine art shows including Autumn & Art, scheduled for Sept. 15-17 in Wichita. At press time, formal invites hadnt gone out for the event but hes attended the past two years.

Shannons work is on display at other regional events throughout the year and he also has book signings scheduled. See a list of those events on his website at mickeyshannon.com/event-schedule.

Meanwhile, Shannon continues to take trips and capture more images around the world that hell add to his website and that could end up in a book.

Im hoping to do more books if this one continues to sell well, he said. It was a really fun process.
A rush of adrenaline flowed through Deputy Schumans body after he spotted the car parked on the side of Huntington Pike with its lights out. His new job could be tedious and boring, but it was moments like this that made the $150-a-month salary worth it.

He slowed the unmarked car (his personal vehicle) to a crawl and pulled off on the shoulder a considerable distance behind the crookedly parked car. Perhaps the vehicle had broken down and been abandoned.

A clipping from the Gazette.

With his cars headlights still shining, the deputy quietly opened the door and stepped outside. Keeping his eyes peeled as he approached the darkened vehicle, Schuman saw no discernible movement inside. He was beginning to conclude it was empty, left behind because of mechanical trouble or perhaps a flat tire. After a few steps closer, though, he stopped dead in his tracks.

He stood still, straining to listen, and immediately recognized the unmistakable sounds of lovemaking from inside the car. His adrenaline shot up again. Without hesitation, the deputy rushed the last few steps to the car and caught the driver and girl by surprise, disrupting the young couples petting party. The incident was just the latest example of the supposed epidemic of sexual immorality occurring among Ross Countys youth.

A clipping from the Gazette.

One hundred years ago, there was a revolt by young people against the moral code of their parents, especially regarding attitudes about sexuality. The increasing use of the automobile aided in the movement, allowing them to easily escape the scrutiny and supervision of their parents. In effect, the cars acted as rolling bedrooms. Petting parties were happening so often along Ross Countys country roads that Deputy Schuman had been specifically hired to put an end to the practice.

It was Probate Court Judge Cutright, though, who started a crusade against the nightly petting parties. Immorality of juveniles must be squelched, the judge warned in a front page article in the July 28, 1923, edition of the Gazette. All the machinery of the Juvenile Court will be employed to put a check, if not a stop, to this fast growing evil, he promised.

Petting parties were not the only alleged evil that had the judge in a tizzy. Young couples were also engaging in splash parties in various creeks in the county. Cutright was outraged by the promiscuous and unregulated bathing evil and suggested that parents should look better after their daughters. If not, he warned, when arrested the hand of the law will be an iron hand and they will not get off easily.

A clipping from the Gazette.

The judge likely did not call out the behavior of boys because it was expected that they would succumb to the temptations of sex, but only with bad girls from bad homes. Nice girls from respectable homes, on the other hand, were counted on to be the guardians of morality. Girls who were well brought up were not supposed to even let boys kiss them. Instead, they were expected to wait until the right man came along and after a romantic courtship, perhaps they would marry.

Many American girls were no longer having it, and not just in their interactions with the opposite sex. Supposed good girls were openly smoking cigarettes, and in defiance of prohibition, drinking alcohol. Their skirts came up a few inches and they began using cosmetics, especially rouge. Young girls were determined, consciously or unconsciously, to make a clean break from their mothers world.

After petting parties first began appearing on the countys dark rural roads, the headlights of passing vehicles revealed young couples conducting themselves in ways that reportedly sickened mothers with young children in their cars. The Gazette editorial page pleaded for decent people to report these incidents. Filth should be swept away, the paper suggested. Young people rolled their eyes.

A clipping from the Gazette.

Instead of being cowered by adults, the petting parties moved from dusty rural roads to inside the city limits. So bold have these pettors and pettees become, the Gazette complained, that they have even now invaded the city and the darker shaded streets and alleys are being used. After police began patrolling the neighborhoods in an attempt to break up the encounters, couples discovered the dark roads at Camp Sherman.

Eventually, Camp Sherman guards caught on to the practice and military authorities sought to scare the trespassers away. They warned violators that they would be prosecuted for trespassing on government property and night guards were ordered to be extra vigilant. The threat seems to have worked, but civilian authorities were having a tougher go of it.

The petting party participants that Deputy Schuman had disrupted on Huntington Pike, for example, were never punished. Schuman had ordered Harold Goldsberry, the driver, to appear before Mayor Minshall the following morning, but no statute could be found to prosecute, and the case was dropped. If the alleged incident had occurred inside city limits, there were ordinances punishing violators for parking along city streets without lights, or if the participants were caught in an especially compromising position, they could be prosecuted for disorderly conduct.

Goldsberry maintained that he had car trouble and after he stopped to fix it, the lights went out. The prosecutor conceded that there was no state law against temporarily parking along a road without lights. The sheriff was livid and instructed Deputy Schuman to go out as usual tonight and continue to make arrests as previously ordered. After Judge Cutright learned of Goldsberrys release, he was more determined than ever to find a statute to prosecute the young man. The Goldsberry case is not over with yet, Cutright insisted.

The Gazette admitted that it was going to be tougher to stop the hug-and-kiss fests than it anticipated. Score one for the Petting Party crowd, the paper declared. Young people likely cheered, while Deputy Schuman shook his head.

This article originally appeared on Chillicothe Gazette: Looking Back: 100 years ago a crackdown on 'petting parties'
No pastors in our public schools

I am a retired school psychologist with 20 years of experience working in public and private schools as well as in mental health clinics. After retiring, I pursued an Master of Divinity degree and pastored two congregations for an additional 12 years.

I am alarmed by the new Texas law that allows school districts to hire or accept volunteer chaplains as counselors in our public schools.

I implore local districts not to do so. Such an arrangement will degrade educational services to students. It might cause educational malpractice. And the idea appears to be unconstitutional.

Providing chaplains as counselors might result in contentious lawsuits and serve no good purpose for the student bodies.

- James Bridges, Fate

Cornyn, Cruz both said no to it

If you see Sens. John Cornyn and Ted Cruz announcing their excitement about the $3.3 billion Texas will receive from the federal government to expand broadband availability, remember that both voted against the infrastructure bill providing the funding. (June 27, 10A, Biden announces $42B to expand high-speed internet access)

- Deborah Corinne Duke, Saginaw

Church pursuit of nun is wrong

There is a double standard in the Catholic Church. How many priests who sexually abused children were just reassigned to other parishes? Yet, when a nun breaks her vows, the church goes after her. (June 26, Star-Telegram.com, Nun accused of breaking chastity vow names priest in interview with Fort Worth bishop)

What happened to Let he who is without sin cast the first stone? It makes me wonder whether this is more about the prime property the Monastery of the Most Holy Trinity in Arlington sits on than a nun breaking her vows.

- Brett Gardner, Arlington

Supreme Court moving backward

The Supreme Courts decision to overturn Roe v. Wade one year ago sent shock waves through progressive circles, highlighting the pivotal role of electoral politics. The courts so-called conservative majority has worked diligently to unravel settled issues. The conservatives regressive actions have jeopardized hard-fought progress.

It is time to reassess their label and recognize them as the regressive Supreme Court justices. Their decisions have real consequences for individuals whose rights hang in the balance.

Upholding the principles of progress, equality and justice requires active citizen engagement in advocating for a fair and balanced judiciary. We must protect the strides we have made and work toward a more inclusive and equitable future.

- Jose Mendez-Monge, Fort Worth

Let parents choose on drag

So let me get this straight: Texas is dominated by far-right, dont-tell-me-what-to-do government, but now Roanoke is trying to tell parents how to raise their children? (June 26, 1A, Records show Roanoke officials wanted to prevent drag show) As a parent, I thought that was my job and not that of my City Council.

Maybe a member of the Roanoke council would like to come mow my lawn and trim my trees to be sure I get that right, too?

- Cheryl Litke, Fort Worth

Dont turn Tarrant County political

The departure of Tarrant County Administrator G.K. Maenius raises the concern that County Judge Tim OHare will convert the office into a political position. (June 27, 1A, Could Tarrants partisan climate affect search for leader?) OHare forced the resignation of the countys excellent election administrator, and now the county administrator is leaving.

Tarrant County residents should be concerned about the possibility of OHare turning county government into a right-wing partisan structure that fits his ideology.

- Douglas Harman, Fort Worth

Im glad Abbott is busing migrants

In response to the author of a June 25 letter to the editor (4C) who wrote that she was unhappy with Gov. Greg Abbott spending taxpayers money to bus migrants to sanctuary cities, I am all for it. (June 14, star-telegram.com, Migrants bused from Texas to Los Angeles in move mayor calls despicable stunt)

Would she rather pay the millions of dollars it costs to house, clothe, educate and provide health care for the huge number of migrants who have crossed our borders illegally and remain in Texas?

Most Texans would choose to bus them and save the money. Kudos to Abbott for doing so.

- Donna Bierd, Keller
(Bloomberg) -- Street unrest eased in France overnight after nearly a week of riots and looting touched off by a police officers killing of a teenager that underscored serious tensions in the countrys ethnically mixed suburban neighborhoods.

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While the violence has ebbed, the shooting of Nahel, a 17-year-old of North African descent, remains a flashpoint in a crisis over racism and inequality in France thats drawing comparisons with Americas reaction to the murder of George Floyd in 2020.

The number of arrests dropped to 157 overnight, according to government figures, down from more than 700 the previous night and 1,300 the night before that.

We have to remain cautious, Justice Minister Eric Dupond-Moretti said on France Inter radio when asked about the unrest.

France has kept some 45,000 police, as well as special forces and armored vehicles deployed to contain clashes that have left hundreds of public buildings and shops damaged or ransacked in cities including Paris, Marseille, Lyon and Strasbourg.

French President Emmanuel Macron is meeting the heads of the Senate and the National Assembly on Monday and will see some 220 French mayors on Tuesday to discuss the situation.

Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin said on Monday that the average age of the 3,200 people arrested was 17 and said some as young as 12 had been setting fires. About 60% of those arrested had no previous run-ins with the police.

We all need to ask ourselves about the responsibility of families, parents, because its not up to the police, or even mayors or the state to solve the problem when a child of 12 sets fire to a school, Darmanin said while touring the city of Reims.

The unrest is another political minefield for Macron after he pushed through an increase in Frances retirement age that was preceded by months of strikes and protests. Images of riot police once again battling in the streets further tarnish the countrys reputation, potentially adding to the economic toll just as the government faces pressure to restore public finances.

What Macron needs to do is develop substantive policies to address the problems faced by these youths, Vivien A. Schmidt, a professor of European integration at Boston University, said by email. Unfortunately, however, it is not clear that he even recognizes the problem.

The boys grandmother appealed for calm on Sunday, telling BFM TV that rioters were using his death on June 27 as a pretext.

French government spokesman Olivier Veran said there is no political message in ransacking a store during the night. I dont call these scenes of looting a movement, he told France Inter radio.

Read More: LVMHs Celine Cancels Menswear Show in Paris Citing Safety, Optics

The rioting, mostly by youths from working-class neighborhoods, is once again laying bare divisions in French society. Some of the most violent clashes happened in the port city of Marseille.

Finance Minister Bruno Le Maire on Saturday noted damage to about a dozen shopping malls and more than 700 supermarkets, banks and stores, some of which were reduced to rubble. Nearing the height of the summer tourist season, countries including the UK have put in place travel warnings for France.

The French opposition at both ends of the political spectrum has seized on the crisis as evidence that the government is failing to ensure public safety and narrow economic disparity.

Politicians including far-right leader Marine Le Pen have rallied to condemn one attack in particular  the ramming of a burning car into the home of the mayor of LHay-les-Roses, a Paris suburb. Stephane Hardouin, a public prosecutor, said authorities were investigating attempted murder after the mayors partner and two young children escaped the house through a back door.

Labor unrest and street demonstrations happen regularly in France but have taken on a more intense and confrontational tone in recent years, reflecting divisions within French society. Before the pension protests and the pandemic, the so-called Yellow Vest movement already caused widespread property damage.

The nationwide unrest prompted Macron to postpone a rare state visit by a French president to Germany, where Chancellor Olaf Scholz called images of the clashes very dispiriting on Sunday.

Nahel, whose last name has been withheld by authorities, was buried Saturday in Nanterre, his hometown where he was shot at close range in a car. The officer who fired the gun has been charged with murder and is in pre-trial detention. Laurent-Franck Lienard, a lawyer for the officer, told Europe 1 radio that the policeman believed he needed to shoot.

--With assistance from Max Reyes, Iain Rogers and Jenny Che.

(Updates with arrest data in the seventh paragraph.)

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Christian B can open any door suggests witness (Italian Carabinieri)

The prime suspect in the Madeleine McCann case had a burglary tool kit that can pick any lock, a witness has claimed.

Helge Bs allegations against Christian B cast fresh doubt over the official theory that the then-three-year-old was kidnapped by someone who climbed through the window of her familys holiday apartment in Portugal 16 years ago.

The 52-year-old, a petty criminal himself, told The Sun on Sunday he took the kit from the Algarve home of Christian B, who was in prison for theft at that time.

Madeleine disappeared in May 2007 while staying with her parents at a holiday apartment in Praia da Luz (PA Media)

He said: I knew from Christian that he uses tools to break into holiday resorts, hotels and holiday homes to steal from tourists.

There were passports on the table. There was all sorts of stuff lying around  cameras, suitcases, everything that tourists have with them. I also found a lock pick set.

You can use it to pick any lock, including security locks.

Helge B, who is now in witness protection, said he informed German police about the kit, which includes 14 black stainless steal picks designed for different door types, according to The Sun on Sunday.

A police source told the newspaper: The German detectives were electrified by the discovery of the tool kit with the lock picks in it. This evidence is now very important to them.

It confirmed a suspicion that theyd had for a long time  that Christian B entered the apartment through the door.

When asked how Christian B could have entered the McCanns holiday apartment, Helge B suggested: Through the door. Easily. He can open any door.

The development has led detectives to conclude the window theory could be a red herring, according to insiders close to the German police probe, reported The Sun on Sunday.

Teams searched a reservoir in the Algarve region in May as part of their investigation (PA)

It is understood police are also investigating the possibility Christian B used car paint to sedate Maddie after being told he had access to the solvent because he had been a mechanic.

Reports the metal window shutters were rolled up and a curtain was blowing in the apartment after Maddie went missing could be explained by the theory her kidnapper did so to avoid inhaling toxic fumes.

Helge B did recently allege to the German outlet Bild that Christian B let slip Maddie didnt scream when she was kidnapped.

The pair crossed paths at a music festival in Spain in 2008, Helge B said, when the topic of Maddies disappearance came up and I said: Anyway, I dont understand how the little one could have disappeared without a trace.

Christian had drunk two or three beers, and he said: She didnt scream.

Christian B allegedly told the witness: She didnt scream (PA) (PA Media)

In what has been described as the most heavily reported missing person case in modern history, Madeleine disappeared in May 2007 while staying with her parents at a holiday apartment in Praia da Luz.

Her parents, Gerry and Kate McCann, had been dining with their friends at a restaurant 55 metres away when they discovered she was missing during a routine check at 10pm.

The case has remained unsolved for 16 years with no body discovered, however German prosecutors have stated their belief that she was killed.

Brueckner was identified as the primary suspect in 2020, with authorities conducting a major search of a remote Algarve reservoir in May as part of their investigation. It is believed that the jailed paedophile had regularly visited the mile-long peninsula and had described it as a little slice of paradise when living near the Praia da Luz resort.

Brueckner has previous convictions for child sexual abuse, drug trafficking and is currently serving a prison sentence in Germany for raping a 72-year-old pensioner.
Madera sheriffs deputies are asking for help finding Odin, a police dog who escaped his home in Clovis early Sunday.

UPDATE: The Madera County Sheriffs Office said K-9 Odin was found Sunday night near Ashlan and Clovis avenues.

ORIGINAL STORY: Madera County sheriffs officials are asking for help finding Odin, a police dog who escaped his backyard kennel early Sunday morning.

It happened about 4 a.m. at a Madera deputys home. A video camera caught images of Odin climbing over the top of his 6-foot kennel and a 6-foot backyard fence.

Odin is a 3-year-old Belgian Malinois and weighs about 75 pounds, authorities said in a social media post. He is described by his handler as being even-tempered and social. He was not wearing a collar or Madera County Sheriffs Office identification.

Deputies said Odin has experience with the public and children.

Odin was last seen in Fresno, near Cedar and Bullard avenues, deputies said.

Sheriffs spokeswoman Kayla Gates said the sheriffs office is using every available resource to find Odin.

We have volunteers going door-to-door in the area, she said, adding that other law enforcement agencies have been alerted as well.

Gates said everyone is concerned about the dogs well-being because he is out alone on a 100-degree day.

We want Odin returned as soon as possible.

Anyone who sees Odin is asked not to approach him, but to call 559-675-7770.
A Maine woman successfully saved her dog by punching a bear on Friday afternoon.

The 64-year-old resident of Porter, Maine, battled a bear head on after it chased her dog out of the woods, according to the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife, as reported by NBC News.

Her punch did not immediately subdue the bear, which bit back.

According to wildlife authorities, When the bear stood up, she stood up as tall as she could, then punched the bear in the nose, whereupon the bear bit her in the right hand, puncturing her wrist.

The bear released the woman, then quickly fled back to the woods.

After the incident, she was treated for puncture wounds on her wrist. The dog was uninjured.

A black bear is seen at the Maine Wildlife Park in New Gloucester in 2014.

A black bear is seen at the Maine Wildlife Park in New Gloucester in 2014.

On Saturday, authorities told media that they set live-capture traps in the area but have yet to catch the animal.

While bear attacks are rare, theyre not unheard of in the northeast United States, where the black bear population is estimated to be around 30,000 animals, according to NewEngland.com.

On Saturday, a Connecticut man was hospitalized after getting between a bear and his dog at his Litchfield, Connecticut, home. The dog was treated for injuries at the veterinarian.

Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection told the local NBC outlet the bear made its way onto the property to check on a bird feeder when the dog rushed in.

In May, a hungry bear barged into a Connecticut bakerys garage during business hours, terrifying workers before stealing a case of baked goods.

Witnesses say the animal ended up feasting on 60 cupcakes before a baker was able to scare it off with their car horn. No one was injured.

New England wildlife authorities warn residents that bird feeders, pet food, garbage and outdoor grills can attract wild animals. They suggest homeowners put away those items during the warmer seasons, when bears are out of hibernation.

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Man dies in 150-foot fall from trail on family hike to waterfall, Oregon officials say

A father of five died on a family hike to Multnomah Falls after plummeting 150 feet from the trail, Oregon sheriffs officials told news outlets.

The Beaverton man lost his footing and fell from a switchback on the trail at about 2 p.m. Saturday, July 1, Deputy John Plock with the Multnomah County Sheriffs Office told KPTV.

Mom, dad, five kids, all here enjoying a beautiful day at Multnomah Falls and unfortunately a tragic accident happened, Plock told the station. His family was not with him when he fell.

The Corbett Fire District and sheriffs search and rescue personnel responded, but the man died of his injuries, according to a Twitter post by firefighters.

It took rescuers about an hour to pinpoint the mans location, KGW reported.

Other people, including his family, were not able to see where he fell or where he was after the fall, Plock told KATU.

The popular trail was full of visitors Saturday, KOIN reported. Officials warned hikers to be prepared and be careful on the unpaved hiking trail.

Multnomah Falls is in the Columbia River Gorge, about 30 miles east of Portland.

Hikers stumble on epic suncups in snow near Yosemite, photos show. What are they?

5-year-old boy vanishes in woods  then Oregon rescuers follow sound of barking dog

Attacking bees swarm man flying model airplanes in field, California firefighters say
Man dies after ejection from motorcycle in 3-vehicle Orangevale crash, CHP says

A motorcyclist died and one other person suffered major injuries in a three-vehicle collision with a sedan and SUV Saturday evening in Orangevale, authorities said.

Around 6:20 p.m., officers with California Highway Patrol East Sacramento responded to reports of a crash on Hazel Avenue, south of Central Avenue, according to Officer Trent Senter, a CHP spokesman.

Senter said an adult male was traveling northbound in a Scion sedan and veered to the left into southbound lanes for unknown reasons. The Scion crashed head-on into a Hyundai SUV traveling southbound. The motorcyclist was traveling directly behind the SUV, Senter said.

The motorcyclist, a man, struck the SUV head on as a result of the initial collision and was ejected into the roadway, authorities said. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

The SUV driver, a woman, sustained minor injuries, while the sedan driver sustained major injuries and was transported to a local hospital, law enforcement said.

Senter said Sunday it is unknown if drugs or alcohol were involved.
A wildfire that has burned nearly 1,000 acres in Palo Pinto County is now 85% contained and the mandatory evacuation order for three communities has been rescinded, authorities said.

The evacuation order for Gaines Bend, Hells Gate and Sportsman World in the Possum Kingdom Lake area were rescinded Friday, according to the countys website. The Texas A&M Forest Service said Sunday the fire had consumed an estimated 950 acres and was 85% contained.

PK Lake, a popular getaway for people who live in Dallas-Fort Worth, is about 110 miles northwest of downtown Fort Worth.

The blaze, dubbed the Storage Fire by the forest service, started Wednesday and burned around 200 acres. By Thursday, the fire had spread to 600 acres, then the estimate was upped to 1,000 acres. Mandatory evacuations were ordered Thursday and efforts to get residents out of those neighborhoods continued through Friday until the order was rescinded.

A street sign is coated by fire suppressant dropped from aircraft Friday, June 30, 2023, in Palo Pinto County.

The fires spread was worsened Thursday by the extreme behavior of the fire brought about by wind speeds. Still, firefighters were able to deploy aerial resources to combat the wildfires spread, using airplanes to dump suppressant as a preventative measure.

The Texas National Guard used Blackhawk military helicopters equipped with firefighting capabilities to assist myriad of other local, regional and state agencies in stopping and containing the flames.

Texas state troopers block off entry to the Gaines Bend area on Friday, June 30, 2023, during a mandatory evacuation due to a wildfire.

Fire departments from Fort Worth, Grand Prairie and other DFW cities sent assistance as well. The Forest Service said Friday that two strike teams from Fort Worth were sent to help in efforts to extinguish the fire.

The start of wildfire season

While containment is high and most firefighting efforts are focused on locating and quashing hot spots, the danger isnt over.

On Thursday, Gov. Greg Abbott raised the Wildland Fire Preparedness Level to Level 2, saying in a news release that extreme heat and dry conditions in recent weeks has left most of Texas with wilting, dry grass that could provide fuel to any fire leading to a rapid, uncontrolled burn.

State resources were deployed under the governors orders Thursday to assist fire crews in Palo Pinto County and warned that fireworks and other celebratory activities for July 4th could result in accidental i fires.

Accidental ignition of wildfires can also come from vehicles. Chains connected to a vehicle that scrape the roadway can send sparks in to dry grass just waiting to ignite. Vehicles with hot under-carraiges driving over dry grass can also create flames.

Throwing burning cigarettes on the ground, even if they are left on concrete or asphalt, could start flames if the cigarette is blown into somethint that can act as fuel. Leaving fires, such as with a grill or fire pit, unattended could also start a wildfire.

Possum Kingdoms fire history

The Possum Kingdom Lake area isnt a stranger to wildfires.

Last year, two separate fires ravaged the area. The 1148 fire in Possum Kingdom Lake was started when a glass bottle in a trashcan magnified the sunlight and ignited a piece of paper. A rare way for wildfires to start, but not something unheard of.

The fire destroyed five homes and 500 acres of land, leaving a hilltop near the lake bald with burnt trees and land.

A hilltop was burned by last years wildfire at Possum Kingdom Lake in North Texas. A new fire covering about 1,000 acres is raging in the area on Friday, June 30, 2023.

The wildfire in Palo Pinto County dubbed the Lazy Fire burned up 1,500 acres and threatened but didnt damage homes in the Possum Kingdom Lake area. That fire led to authorities shutting down Texas 16 at U.S. Highway 180 in the county as thick juniper fueled the blaze.

The forest service listed juniper trees as one of the fuels for the Storage Fire this past week.

The Lazy Fire was started as a controlled burn at the Set Ranch but got away from the people conducting the burn.

In addition to the fires last year, the Possum Kingdom Lake subdivision The Cliffs was ravaged by a fire in 2011. Named the 101 Ranch Fire, it left the rubble of 39 homes in its wake.

One of those property owners, Larry Anderson, told the Star-Telegram in 2011 that he barely escaped the flames that burned up more than 6,500 acres.

Theres a lot of devastation out there, Anderson said at the time. Theres 200-year-old trees gone. Its not a pretty sight.
Dubbed the "Capital of Mango" in Bangladesh, Chapainawabganj has been famous for producing high-quality, chemical-free mangoes by using Chinese methods in recent years.





Produced by Xinhua Global Service
David Gaydos thought he had already learned a lot about loss.

The retired Naperville Central High School teacher had been through much grief: the loss of his parents, multiple miscarriages with his wife, Frances, and her death in 2019 of ovarian cancer after 53 years of marriage.

But this spring, Gaydos lost the lower half of his left leg and left foot. And he said it taught him more than he realized. At 78, he is relearning kindness and gratitude.

Gaydos arrived at Northwestern Medicines Marianjoy Rehabilitation Hospital in Wheaton this spring after an infection led to the amputation. Hed had diabetes issues that led to infections and hospital stays and another series of, Can we save the foot? as he put it. And it didnt work.

He knew amputation was a possibility. He had been given options, he said, but following surgeries where the infection came back, another possibly failed surgery wasnt right for him.

He looked at losing the limb as saving his life. And now, he sees its absence as growth.

On May 22, he participated in a ceremony at Marianjoy called Ritual for Loss of the Limb. Created after the spiritual care team realized a need for acknowledging and processing the loss of a limb, its offered to patients as a way to grieve what was lost and enter into the new life awaiting them outside the rehabilitation centers doors.

Most such patients have just begun rehabilitation therapy; they are adjusting to a new life without the full mobility they had recently lost. People arrive here after car accidents, after surgeries following illnesses, after many life experiences that suddenly left them with a starkly different future.

The ceremony takes place in the chapel, but it can be religious or not, depending on a patients preference. A lit candle, for example, can signify the presence of God or the presence of light within dark moments, said Dr. Arnold Hoskins, a reverend at Marianjoy.

Hoskins said the ceremony can help sooth anxiety and build confidence.

The loss of a limb, in my view, is tantamount to the loss of a life because, after all, you have lost something, he said. And just as we have rituals for when people die, we have funerals, we have memorials, and it helps the mourner transition into a new life.

Marianjoy has been doing the rituals for many years but had paused them during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. The rituals were restarted in February and the center is averaging about three ceremonies per month.

At the May 22 ceremony, Gaydos said he had always taken a lot of pride in doing things for himself, not needing help.

This experience, he said, changed that.

Neighbors had brought him food. His son helped him make the decision about his amputation. He has been humbled and honored by the people in his life showing such kindness.

He found out about the ceremony when one of the Marianjoy chaplains came in to his hospital room to talk to him about what was going on his life, and how he ended up at the facility. He described becoming a widower. Ive been in a grieving process, but Im adjusting to that, he said. I started to draw parallels to my whole body situation and separation. And I started talking to the chaplain about a movement that was taking place in me.

He began to reflect on his Catholic upbringing, engaging in prayer and sharing stories with another amputee.

I didnt have grief for the loss of my foot, he said. (The amputation) brought me to an understanding of things being taken away  and what people do for you and what youre capable of.

At a February ceremony, patients were encouraged to give thanks for how their limbs carried them through life thus far, while thinking also about new life and new goals. Each person received a piece of a prickly aloe plant, while Marianjoy chaplain Catherine Lindsay told them, Just as this aloe plant, though wounded, still provides a healing balm, may God grant you healing as a resource for yourself and others to show kindness and to do good.

During his ceremony, Gaydos spoke about how he had been resistant to kindness because of his pride, and what he describes as a false sense of masculinity, or an idea that being a man is standing on your own two feet.

Sometimes you just have to understand you cant stand; some people can stand on two feet and cant stand emotionally because of what takes place in their lives, he said. I have spent my whole life resistant to it in an odd sense of stubbornness.

Losing a limb is a different type of challenge from other patients who arrive at Marianjoy after a stroke or recovering from COVID-19, said Dr. Noelia Donamaria, who leads the amputee program at Marianjoy.

I think the more were able to normalize the experience ... yes, this is something that happened, something thats unfortunate, but its something you can get through, she said. Patients who are able to accept it and grieve it and overcome it tend to do a lot better.  Its just a bump in the road; it doesnt need to define your whole life moving forward.

After arriving at Marianjoy in April and finishing a month of rehab, Gaydos was ready to go home in May following dialysis and a wheelchair fitting  to start his new life, less able to stand, but more willing to open his arms.
The Mayo Clinic's Jacksonville campus is at 4500 San Pablo Road on the Southside.

Jacksonville's Mayo Clinic and Brooks Rehabilitation, both of which treat patients after life-altering brain injuries, spinal cord injuries and strokes, will collaborate on a new, comprehensive residency program for medical students seeking careers in physical medicine and rehabilitation.

The four-year program will offer residents "an opportunity to train in a world-class medical institution while gaining hands-on experience in one of the top rehabilitation hospitals in the region," according to officials.

The Mayo Clinic PM&R Residency Program in Collaboration with Brooks Rehabilitation has received initial accreditation from the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education. Physical medicine and rehabilitation, also known as PM&R, or physiatry, is a medical specialty that involves restoring movement and function to people limited by disease or injury, according to Mayo.

On the mend: What's behind the medical rehab facilities boom in Jacksonville?

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The first class will begin July 1, 2024.

Residents' first year of training will be in the "Internal Medicine Preliminary Year Program" at Mayo, followed by 12 months of rotations for inpatient rehabilitation at Brooks. In the final 24 months, they will have outpatient musculoskeletal and neurologic clinics, electromyography and acute hospital consults at Mayo.

For more information go to college.mayo.edu/academics/residencies-and-fellowships/physical-medicine-and-rehabilitation-residency-florida and brooksrehab.org/pmr-residency-program.

The Mayo-Brooks venture is one of the latest news items in the high-growth health care industry in Northeast Florida. Here's what else has been happening that's not already been reported by the Times-Union:

Walmart

Walmart has opened new HIV-focused specialty pharmacies within eight of its existing pharmacies in the Jacksonville area.

Staff celebrate the opening of a specialty HIV pharmacy at a Walmart in St. Johns County, one of eight opening this week across the Jacksonville area.

The specialty location at 845 Durbin Pavilion in St. Johns County opened Wednesday. Seven more are already open or will have opened by June 30 at the following locations:

10991 San Jose Blvd., Suite 1, Jacksonville

8808 Beach Blvd., Jacksonville

9890 Hutchinson Park Drive, Jacksonville

4250 Philips Highway, Jacksonville

13227 City Square Drive, off Max Leggett Parkway, Jacksonville

11900 Atlantic Blvd., near Kernan Boulevard, Jacksonville

2355 S. U.S. 1, St. Augustine

Specially trained pharmacists will offer clinical programs and pharmacy services, while community health workers will provide enhanced care coordination, healthy lifestyle recommendations and emotional support services.

Medical, dental labs and more: Walmart Health opening 3 Jacksonville clinics this week

The company is using its visibility  90% of the U.S. population live within 10 miles of one of the 4,600 Walmart store pharmacies across the country  "to reach people who might not otherwise have access to or seek out HIV care," according to officials there. The specialty pharmacies "will make treatment easier, more convenient and discreet."

Wolfson Children's Hospital

The Wolfson Childrens Hospital Auxiliary, whose volunteers provide a range of services from greeting visitors to pet therapy, recently marked 50 years of service.

The group, which now has about 100 members, was celebrated by hospital leaders and members at a June 13 event.

Members of the Wolfson Children's Auxiliary gather for a group photo at a celebration of the group's 50-year anniversary. The auxiliary has about 100 members who provide a variety of services.

Founded by Eunice Gooding on June 13, 1973, the auxiliary has grown from five services to 17 and its members have volunteered about 1 million hours. In the last decade alone, they have devoted about 200,000 hours of service to Wolfson, worth about $4.5 million, according to the hospital.

The auxiliary also has donated about $1 million and funded a $500,000 Baptist Foundation endowment for critical care equipment, advanced technology, patient room amenities and wheelchairs to transport patients, among other things.

Allegra Jaros: New Wolfson Children's Hospital president shares lifetime bond in Jacksonville

Auxiliary services include greeting and escorting patients and families; participating in bedside activities such as crafts, puzzles and games; and hosting hospital tours. They also provide pet therapy, entertain children and families with a troop of clowns and magicians; and dress as the Wolfson mascot, Wolfie, for patients and community events.

"They are a huge blessing  It takes special people to share their hearts with others," said Jeannie Poon, director of volunteer services for Wolfson and Baptist Medical Center Jacksonville.

To volunteer or get more information, call (904) 202-8008, email WCHAuxiliary@bmcjax.com or go to wolfsonchildrens.com/about/volunteer.

Mayo Clinic Florida

The Mayo Clinic in Jacksonville recently broke ground on a $70 million Hilton Hotel scheduled to open in 2025 on the hospital campus near the newly built Butler Boulevard entrance.

The eight-story, 179,000-square-foot hotel will have 252 guest rooms. Also planned are indoor and outdoor meeting spaces within a few hundred yards of Mayo facilities.

Hilton headed for Mayo Clinic: $70 million hotel to be built on hospital campus in Jacksonville

Representatives of Mayo Clinic, Hilton Hotels and the builders and developers of a new Hilton on the hospital campus break ground on what will be a $70 million lodging.

When work gets underway later this summer, the hotel will be the fourth active construction site at the clinic. Other projects are a 225,000-square-foot integrated oncology building, a five-floor patient bed tower expansion to the hospital and a central utilities plant.

The Mayo campus already includes the 134-room Courtyard by Marriott Jacksonville Mayo Clinic-Beaches and two hospitality houses: Gabriel House of Care is for adult organ transplant and cancer patients and their caregivers; the Richard M. Schulze Family Foundation Hope Lodge is for cancer patients.

Send hospital and health care news to bcravey@jacksonville.com.

This article originally appeared on Florida Times-Union: Jacksonville Mayo, Brooks Rehab join forces; Walmart helps treat HIV
In his first term as mayor of Miami, Francis Suarez increased his personal net worth five-fold as he used his public office to court technology and real estate companies eyeing business opportunities in the Magic City.

Financial disclosures filed annually with the city and state show Suarezs net worth increased from $245,015 to $1,338,551 between mid-2017 and the end of 2021. But the records do not provide an income breakdown, obscuring important details that could provide insight into the mayors expanding wealth  which does not appear to factor in any increased value of his three properties but includes $750,000 sitting in a bank account at the time of his last disclosure.

A new disclosure covering 2022 is expected to be released on July 3.

Since becoming mayor, records show Suarez has hopscotched between jobs at ever-larger law firms and, more recently, become a partner at a private equity firm. He has also taken on other jobs not listed in the disclosures, including one consulting arrangement with a real estate developer that is currently at the center of a federal investigation.

Florida law doesnt require Suarez  who is now a candidate for the Republican nomination for president  to disclose sources of income under 5% of his total annual earnings, making it impossible to determine with certainty the extent of his outside employment from local and state records alone.

Many local politicians have other jobs and its not unusual for them to have a seven-figure net worth. But Suarez refuses to provide a comprehensive list of his private clients. And his financial circumstances stand out because his time in the mayors office corresponds directly with the exponential increase in his personal wealth  which had been in negative numbers.

While many see Suarezs recent financial success as evidence of business acumen, ethics experts are concerned that Miamis mayor is inappropriately exploiting his public office for personal gain. And each new job adds financial incentives and pressure on Suarez  a part-time mayor who makes $130,000 from his public office  to prioritize his private business over the interests of the city and its residents.

Barbara Petersen of the Florida Center for Government Accountability, a nonpartisan nonprofit focused on local government accountability, said Suarez appears to be leveraging his position as mayor into lucrative offers for outside work.

They are not hiring Suarez, they are hiring Mayor Suarez, quite clearly, because that is giving them some kind of advantage, Petersen said. Whether its direct or indirect its still giving them a leg up.

Neither the mayors office nor Suarezs campaign responded to multiple requests for comment.

Records show the mayors net worth reached seven digits for the first time in 2021, as Suarez used his public office to promote Miami as a mecca for technology companies and venture capital. That year alone Suarez added at least six new positions to his portfolio of outside work, including joining DaGrosa Capital, a Coral Gables-based private equity firm looking to break into the real estate sector.

Under Mayor Suarezs leadership, Miami has become a magnet for businesses, technology entrepreneurs and investment talent, said Joseph DaGrosa, founder and chairman, when he announced Suarez as a senior operating partner of his firm.

When he took the job  which included a board seat on a local realty brokerage where DaGrosa was a partner  Suarez said the work would not conflict with his role as mayor because the firm had no business with the city nor will they. DaGrosa did not respond to the Heralds request for comment.

An internet search reveals that in 2021 Suarez also held other positions, not listed on his disclosures, including a paid seat on the board of a local tech conference, eMerge Americas, an advisory role at a solar energy start-up, and a consulting arrangement with a crypto mining venture caught up in a broader investigation led by the Senate Finance Committee.

County ethics codes prohibit the mayor from using his official position to secure special privileges or exemptions for himself or others. City email records show that on more than one occasion the members of the mayors staff have done favors for businesses closely tied to Suarez or his outside employers.

Whether he is at City Hall or headlining a cryptocurrency conference downtown, it can be difficult to determine if he is acting as mayor on behalf of his constituents or on behalf of a private client  or both.

In January, Suarez attended the ceremonial groundbreaking of a Coconut Grove mixed-use development featuring co-living spaces pitched as a solution to the citys housing affordability crisis. But as he scooped dirt and smiled for cameras, the mayor did not disclose that he was earning $10,000 per month from his consulting for Rishi Kapoor, the developer on the project.

Suarezs work for Kapoor is under investigation by state and federal authorities following a series of Miami Herald articles showing Kapoor tapped the mayor and his staff to help resolve a zoning issue stalling his $70 million project in 2022. City emails also show the mayors office worked closely with Kapoor for years on draft legislation to change the zoning codes.

Although the draft ordinance was never adopted, the relationship between the mayors office and the man who would pay Suarez at least $170,000, provides a window into how the mayor works behind the scenes in City Hall.

As mayor, Suarez has a reputation for rarely attending city commission meetings, preferring instead to delegate his officiating duties and whip votes in private, one-on-one meetings with individual members of the commission. While meetings between voting members of the commission are prohibited under Florida law, the Miami mayor has no vote  only a veto  giving Suarez the anomalous freedom to set an agenda far from the public eye.

As a presidential candidate, Suarez is required to file a more comprehensive report with the Federal Elections Commission by July 14 that will provide new insight into the mayors financial interests. Unlike the city and state disclosures, the federal election rules require both Suarez and his wife to itemize their sources of income and other financial information dating back to the beginning of 2022.

When he was not a commissioner he was just a real estate attorney working out of a small office, said former Miami mayor Tomas Regalado, who served alongside Suarez when the latter was first elected to city government in 2009. When he was commissioner, he started getting business. And when he became mayor, I guess he dazzled a lot of people.

Regalado, an open critic of the current mayor, plans to run again in 2025 when Suarez is term-limited.

The mayors legal work

When Los Angeles-based Quinn Emanuel Urquhart & Sullivan hired Suarez as the firm sought to sink roots in South Florida in 2021, the mayor provided the firm opinions he obtained from both state and county ethics commissions regarding his employment and conflict-of-interest prohibitions.

An international litigation firm, Quinn Emanuels client roster includes billionaire hedge fund manager and real estate investor Ken Griffin, who recently announced he was moving the headquarters of his firm, Citadel, to Miami from Chicago. Griffin, now the richest person in Florida, is planning to build a $1 billion tower on Biscayne Bay. The mayor has called him a friend.

Representatives of Citadel are registered to lobby in the city of Miami.

In a written opinion issued to the mayor on Jan. 6, 2020, Jose Arrojo, executive director of the Miami-Dade ethics commission, cautioned Suarez to avoid participating in discussions regarding any matter brought in front of the city commission by a client of the law firm where he works.

Even if Suarez was not representing the client himself, Arrojo wrote, there was still a reasonable possibility that the mayor could  directly or indirectly  benefit from helping the firms client with city business. Ultimately, he wrote, whether such action might violate county conflict-of-interest prohibitions would depend on various factors, including the importance of the client to the firm and the extent to which the mayor has familiarity with the client.

Since joining Quinn Emanuel in 2021, Suarez has been a vocal supporter of Griffin, who recently gave $1 million to Suarezs political committee.

Citadel CEO Ken Griffin, who gave a political committee of Francis Suarez $1 million, moved his investment firm to Miami from Chicago. Citadel

Staffers in the mayors office have also worked closely with Citadel on at least two occasions regarding press coverage of Griffins controversial proposal to move a historic mansion off his newly purchased waterfront estate  a plan requiring approval from the citys historic preservation board.

As first reported by the Daily Beast, the mayors spokesperson, Soledad Cedro, wrote an article  one that was highly complimentary of Griffin  in a Spanish-language publication about the developers plan for the historic home without disclosing her taxpayer-funded job at the city. When congratulated by Griffins staff, city emails show Cedro offered to write more articles beneficial to the hedge funder.

Suarez himself has also publicly supported parts of Griffins proposal.

Citadel spokesperson Zia Ahmed said that Griffin has not asked for Suarezs help with city permits, and that all projects will go through the standard public approval process. But Ahmed acknowledged that doesnt prevent Suarez from offering unsolicited advice or commentary to Griffin or others.

As is widely known, the mayor asks for and gives advice to everyone on how he can make Miami an even better city for all Miamians, he said.

READ MORE: Mayor Francis Suarez worked to draft new law with developer who later paid him $170K

A spokesperson for Quinn Emanuel said the company has internal guidelines based on the ethics opinions that wall off Suarez from representing any clients who have business in front of the city, and require Suarez to recuse himself from any city business involving the firms clients.

To the best of our knowledge he has followed those guidelines, the spokesperson said.

Griffin has funded several city initiatives promoted by the mayor, including one to provide scholarships to college students in programs related to science and technology. Griffin praised the mayors commitment to opportunity and freedom for everyone in Miami in a statement to the Herald.

Mayor Suarez is a major part of the Miami growth story, Griffin said. He is an incredible advocate for our community, fighting for better schools, quality jobs, and safer neighborhoods.

A hot brand

Suarezs financial success dovetailed with the citys rising national profile as a technology and innovation hub  a brand the mayor supercharged with a viral tweet.

How can I help? Suarez tweeted on Dec. 4, 2020, in response to a suggestion that Silicon Valley move to Miami. At the time, the mayor had just over 30,000 Twitter followers. One year later, that number surged to 125,000.

With the tweet as a catalyst, Suarez launched a city initiative called Venture Miami that used both city funds and federal COVID-19 relief money to attract technology companies to South Florida. He lobbied for new state laws that would have paved the way for wider use of cryptocurrencies.

A billboard went up in San Francisco encouraging techies and investors, chafing under high rent and political polarization in the Bay Area, to message Suarez on Twitter about moving to Miami.

More people moved to Miami in the final months of 2021 than any other metropolitan area, according to the real estate brokerage Redfin. That year, the South Florida Business Journal reported, Miami startups attracted $2.4 billion in venture capital investments.

A billboard campaign in San Francisco targeting the Bay Area tech community used Miami Mayor Francis Suarezs Twitter presence to attract new residents. AdQuick

In an article for the online magazine Tablet, Miami native Grazie Sophia Christie wrote that Suarez knew how to speak to a generation of people primed by the 24/7 headline, the silicon hyperbole, the unicorns and the big-number braggadocio and the self-belief reinforced for years and years by our own algorithms.

Suarez knows how to speak to us because it is in this tone that the citizens of Miami have always spoken, Christie wrote.

Suarezs personal net worth doubled in the year following his viral tweet, as he took positions with at least half a dozen companies seeking to capitalize on the growing buzz around Miami and its charismatic mayor.

To his credit, the mayor is a shrewd, astute, and canny practitioner of self-enriching, rent-seeking behavior across both public and private sectors of the Miami political and financial ecosystem, said Anthony Alfieri, founding director of the Center for Ethics and Public Service at the University of Miami School of Law.

Indeed, by any measure, he has been rewarded for his casual disdain of the values of open and responsible government, Alfieri said.

Bitcoin mayor

Anointed the Bitcoin mayor, Suarez has made his public office a soapbox for digital currency and blockchain technology.

Suarez made headlines when he began to convert his mayoral salary to Bitcoin, encouraging others to do the same. He threw his political weight behind MiamiCoin, a digital currency whose value quickly plummeted.

The mayors Instagram and YouTube channels feature interviews with dozens of tech entrepreneurs, crypto brands and start-ups, including the now-bankrupt FTX and its founder, Sam Bankman-Fried, who had planned to move FTXs national headquarters to Miami before the companys spectacular implosion. Bankman-Fried now faces charges of wire fraud and conspiracy to commit money laundering.

Among those Suarez has promoted are companies with whom he has consulting arrangements  although the mayor has not always been candid about the connections.

Last January, Suarez appeared in a promotional video for the 2022 North American Bitcoin Conference wearing a t-shirt branded with the logo of Redivider Blockchain Opportunity Zone  a little-known crypto mining venture that was looking to establish one of its projects in South Florida.

Miami Mayor Francis Suarez, left, John Bartleman, center, president and CEO of TradeStation Group, and James Putra, vice president, product strategy for TradeStation, with the Miami Bull, Wednesday, April 6, 2022, at the Miami Beach Convention Center in Miami Beach. The robot-like statue is meant to emulate Wall Streets Charging Bull, and was unveiled to kick off the Bitcoin 2022 conference. (AP Photo/Wilfredo Lee)

What Suarez didnt make clear in the video  still pinned to the top of the tech conferences website  or during his opening remarks at the conference was that he had recently been brought on as a formal advisor to the company whose brand he was wearing that day.

In a December 2021 press release announcing the hire, Redivider CEO Tom Frazier said there is no better ally for the mission of Redivider than Mayor Suarez. But Frazier told the Herald he hadnt asked Suarez to wear the shirt and denied that the start-up had benefited from the mayors subtle brand promotion at the conference that drew celebrities and venture capitalists.

At that time Suarez was brought on as an advisor, Redivider was negotiating with Homestead to build a $15 million Bitcoin mining plant with thousands of computers used for solving the complex math problems required to generate a unique, new digital coin.

Redivider sought to build the project in a federally designated Opportunity Zone, where investors get tax breaks as an incentive to pursue projects in low-income areas. The plan was also to strike a deal with the city  one of the few Florida municipalities with its own electric utility  to get a discounted rate for power.

Homestead Mayor Steve Losner, who championed the proposal, said the potential revenue generated by such a large energy consumer justified the premium rate. But, he said in a recent interview, the bottom fell out before we ever got to that point.

Rather than bring in jobs and revenue as promised, a consultant for the city determined Redividers proposed rate was so low that the city could end up footing the bill for some of the private companys power.

Around the time the project was scuttled in early 2021, Frazier received a letter from the Senate Finance Committee notifying him that Redivider was a target of a broader investigation into whether cryptocurrency mining may be seeking to avoid taxes without meaningfully benefiting distressed communities using the Opportunity Zone program.

Frazier responded to the committees inquiry, saying the company would create 1,000 jobs nationwide over the next 10 years but suggested it was the quality, more than the quantity, of jobs that made the most impact.

Committee spokesperson Ryan Carey said the investigation found that the Opportunity Zone program generally was ripe for abuse by investors but provided few specifics. The committee never followed up with Redivider after the initial response.

Frazier said Suarez was not involved in the Homestead project, and said the company currently operates just one Bitcoin mining plant in New Hampshire.

He declined to provide specifics regarding Suarezs job description or compensation, except to describe the mayor as an on-call advisor.

Any time I called him and asked him for advice, hes been very helpful, Frazier said.
Houston Astros Mauricio Dubon, left, and Corey Julks, right, celebrate scoring on a triple from Chas McCormick in the eighth inning of a baseball game against the Texas Rangers, Sunday, July 2, 2023, in Arlington, Texas. (AP Photo/Gareth Patterson)

ARLINGTON, Texas (AP)  Missing their All-Star starter and slugger among others, the Houston Astros are still in a familiar spot: poised to win a series against their rivals and surprise AL West leaders, the Texas Rangers.

Chas McCormick lined a tiebreaking triple with two outs and the bases loaded in the eighth inning, and the Astros hung on for a 5-3 victory in a Texas showdown matching the division's top two teams.

The win came about the same time left-hander Framber Valdez, who was skipped as the starter Sunday because of soreness in his sprained right ankle, and Yordan Alvarez were named to the AL All-Star team.

Valdez isn't expected to miss another start, and is lined up to be considered for that role July 11 in Seattle. Alvarez, who has an oblique injury, won't be back with the defending World Series champs until mid-July at the earliest.

The Astros are guaranteed at least a split of this four-game series, with the finale Monday, despite shortstop Jeremy Pena missing the first three with a stiff neck. He expects to return soon.

The Rangers, whose series victory in April was their first in Houston since 2018, won't get a chance to win consecutive sets against the Astros for the first time since early 2019.

This club, they like to win, Houston manager Dusty Baker said. And they know how to win. No matter who we put out there, we expect them to do the job, even though they might not do as good a job as the people theyre replacing. But just do what youre capable of doing and do what it takes to help us win.

McCormick's opposite-field hit over a racing Adolis Garcia into the right-field corner came an inning after Aroldis Chapman made his Texas debut with two strikeouts in a scoreless inning.

Josh Sborz replaced the hard-throwing Cuban left-hander and allowed Jose Abreu's third hit, an infield single, before walks to Mauricio Dubon and Corey Julks.

It was the first time in 26 outings this season Sborz (4-3) allowed multiple walks, and McCormick sent the next pitch off the top of the wall in the angled corner near the right field foul pole.

A half-inning earlier, McCormick helped preserve the 1-1 tie with a sliding catch in shallow center field with a runner on to end the Texas seventh.

After Nathaniel Lowe followed Corey Seager's leadoff double in the eighth with a homer to get Texas within a run, Jose Altuve led off the ninth with his second homer of the series.

The first from Altuve opened the game in a 5-3 Houston victory to start the series, which was followed by a 5-2 Texas win.

A lot of baseball to be played, Rangers manager Bruce Bochy said. These guys have already shown they're able to put a game like this behind them. You have no choice in this game, and that's what we'll do.

Two days after Texas acquired him from Kansas City, Chapman was the most notable of nine relievers combined for both teams in a game the Astros had to turn over to their bullpen without Valdez.

Shawn Dubin made his first career big league start in place of the lefty.

The 27-year-old right-hander went four innings, allowing one run when Garcia's pop up down the line in right was caught by Abreu as the first baseman ran with his back to home plate. He turned and threw quickly, but Seager scored easily.

Parker Mushinski, who was recalled from Triple-A Sugar Land while rookie starter Ronel Blanco went down, was the first of five Houston relievers to throw an inning apiece.

Hector Neris (4-2) got the win with two strikeouts in a scoreless seventh, and Ryan Pressly pitched a perfect ninth for his 17th save.

Texas starter Andrew Heaney threw five scoreless innings with eight strikeouts.

CHAPMANS FRAME

The once-dominant closer pitched the seventh. Chapmans fastball was consistently around 99, and two of his sinkers surpassed the century mark.

The 35-year-old struck out McCormick and Martin Maldonado at the bottom of the border before Altuve singled and Alex Bregman sent a hard shot past Chapmans headed that Marcus Semien fielded near second base for the groundout.

ABREU'S BOUNCE-BACK

After letting the Rangers climb within a run without getting an out, reliever Bryan Abreu retired three consecutive All-Stars to get out of the eighth.

The right-hander struck out Garcia, who was named to the team Sunday along with 10-game winner Nathan Eovaldi, before getting a pair of All-Star starters: third baseman Josh Jung on a strikeout and catcher Jonah Heim on a flyout.

TRAINERS ROOM

Astros: Alvarez took batting practice in a cage for the first time since being sidelined by a right oblique injury June 8. He said his level of intensity was roughly 60%.

Rangers: RHP Jose Leclerc (right ankle sprain) is headed to Double-A Frisco on a rehab assignment. He is eligible to come off the 15-day injured list Thursday.

UP NEXT

Houston RHP Cristian Javier (7-1, 3.72 ERA) is set for the finale of the four-game series against Texas lefty Martin Perez (7-3, 4.28). Javier has four consecutive no-decisions, allowing 10 runs in 6 1/3 innings over his previous two starts. Perez won at Houston on April 14 to improve to 5-5 in his career against the Astros.

___

AP MLB: https://apnews.com/hub/mlb and https://twitter.com/AP_Sports
Medal of Honor recipient Sgt. Dakota Meyer is the first living Marine recipient for actions in Iraq or Afghanistan. He and his family and friends were gathered at the White House to commemorate his selfless service Sept. 15, 2011.

Corporal Dakota Louis Meyer is a United States Marine. He received a Medal of Honor for his service in Afghanistan during the War on Terrorism. He grew up in the small town of Columbia, Kentucky, and joined the Marine Corps in 2006. When he earned the Medal of Honor, Meyer served with the Embedded Training Team 2-8, Regional Corps Advisory Command 3-7.

Dakota Meyer's Action in Afghanistan

In September 2009, Dakota Meyer was stationed in the Kunar Province of eastern Afghanistan. Then, on September 8, he gathered his gear and headed out to a patrol rally point just outside the village of Ganjgal. While Meyer stood watch at his station, other members of his platoon traveled into Ganjgal for an early meeting with local Afghan leadership. Soon after the service members departed, the rattle of machine guns echoed off the jagged mountain walls. Meyer heard explosions and suspected foul play.

He soon received word that enemy combatant had ambushed his fellow service members as they marched into Ganjgal. The Taliban had learned about the morning meeting, and several of its members had planned an armed assault against the Americans and their allies.

Ganjgals difficult terrain

Ganjgal is nestled steep in the hills of Afghanistan, where houses sit on treacherous cliffs above the winding roads. Enemy fighters had positioned themselves at high points on rooftops and in doorways. As the Americans entered, the members of the Taliban launched grenades down at the soldiers and fired on them with machine guns. With no helicopters to offer areal coverage that morning, the Americans were at a tactical disadvantage.

Sgt. (then Cpl.) Dakota Meyer and Gunnery Sgt. (then-Staff Sgt.) Aaron Kenefick in Ganjgal Village, Kunar province, Afghanistan, in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.

At least three of Meyers comrades were missing. Others reported injuries. Meyer left his post at the rally point and attempted a rescue. As he crossed into Ganjgal, aggressive enemy fire shook the terrain. Dodging bullets, he pressed forward in search of this fellow servicemen. Eventually, he discovered several were dead. The Taliban had stripped the fallen American soldiers of their guns and radios.

One of the enemy combatants was attempting to carry the American bodies away just as Meyer arrived. Quickly, Meyer charged the combatant and subdued him by beating him with a large rock.

With the help of a few surviving Afghan soldiers, Meyer moved the bodies to a secure location. He then assisted other wounded military personnel. By the time the evacuation team arrived, Meyer had killed numerous Taliban fighters. He played a major part in ending the morning ambush and would be remembered for his significant role in the Battle of Ganjgal.

On September 15, 2011, President Obama awarded Corporal Meyer the Medal of Honor for his courageous action in Ganjgal. Meyer became the first living Marine to receive a Medal of Honor in nearly four decades.

Interested in learning more about other OIF and OEF veterans who have earned the Medal of Honor? Heres a profile of an American service member who helped save the life of a hostage. Read more about the remarkable life of Dakota Meyer here.
Photo Illustrations by Kelly Caminero / The Daily Beast / Getty

I stood on the corner of a neighborhood in Chicagos South Side and wondered if I had made a mistakewell, two mistakes. The first was whether I arrived at the right place to meet my contact John, whom I had never met before and who was intentionally vague about where we were meeting. The second was whether I should be doing this in the first place. After all, it was definitely illegaland potentially dangerous.

Footsteps echoed to my right. I turned half expecting a cop to be asking me what I was doing on an empty street corner in the South Side at nightbut, instead, I saw a tall man walk towards me wearing dark clothes and a mask. This could be good or very bad, I thought. I placed my bet on it being good.

Hey, he said. Tony from The Daily Beast?

Members of the People's CDOT prepare materials for the traffic calming installation. Tony Ho Tran

Thats me, I said, trying to hide my relief. Good to meet you.

Likewise, he said, motioning for me to follow him. Soon, we arrived outside a house where several peoplealso donning masks and dark clothesstood on the sidewalk. They were surrounded by what looked like construction equipment: cinder blocks, PVC pipes, and metal fittings. One person set up caulking guns as though they were loading rifles. John introduced me to the group.

This is it, he said to me. The Peoples CDOT.

The Peoples CDOT, or the Peoples Chicago Department of Transportation, began in October 2022 in response to what John described as glaring deficiencies in the official CDOT. These deficiencies result in dangerous conditions on the streets of Chicagoendangering and claiming the lives of pedestrians and cyclists each year, according to John.

The city doesnt do a good job of putting safe street infrastructure where people want, said John, whose name has been changed to protect his anonymity. So I thought, Why dont we just build our own and put it where the people want to put it?

The group itself is made up of mostly cyclists who met at various other bike safety events. Together, they share the common motivation of ensuring safer streets in the city of Chicago. To date, John said the Peoples CDOT has installed 10 to 15 street calming infrastructure projects. This includes cinder block posts to protect bike lanes, concrete planters to stop cars from blocking sidewalks, plastic speed bumps to slow down vehicles, and cinder block bollards to prevent cars from driving on the Lake Front Trail.

A bootleg bicycle lane barrier created by the Peoples CDOT out of cinder blocks. The Peoples CDOT

These projects were initially self-funded, with John and other members of the organization paying out of their own pocket for equipment they needed for installations. However, they recently put up a donation page that he says is already raising a good amount of moneywhich he claims underscores the public support for their activism.

Weve gotten a couple thousand dollars from folks in the past couple of weeks alone, he said. Its been great.

The majority of the groups projects originate from requests from community members who reach out over Twitter asking for help. Maybe their kids play on a street where cars frequently speed by. Or maybe a cyclist was hit while traveling down a bike lane and a truck merged into them. When this happens, the Peoples CDOT will arrive in the area with equipment on hand to correct what they see as a failure of the city to properly protect its citizens from traffic danger.

Its a type of vigilante activism that has seen a rise in recent years in major metropolitan areas like Chicago, New York City, and Los Angeles in response to the drastic rise in pedestrian deaths in recent years. A report released in June by the Governors Highway Safety Association found that drivers hit and killed more than 7,500 pedestrians in 2022the highest number of fatalities since 1981. People of color represented a disproportionate amount of these deaths.

42,915 Americans Died in Traffic Accidents in 2021the Most Since 2005

Chicago alone saw 174 pedestrian deaths in 2021a 13 percent spike from the previous year. Even in 2020, a year that saw much of the world quarantined and on lockdown, bike crash deaths rose by 16 percent compared to 2019, and rose another 5 percent the next year, according to Streetsblog Chicago.

Everyone from CDOT, to the mayor, and the city at large have just done such a poor job of showing people whats possible for our streets, John said. So everyone just assumes that theyre for cars and drivingand everything else is a hindrance to that.

In response, the Peoples CDOT has emerged as a proactive, albeit clandestine, movement to ensure safer streets for cyclists and pedestrianseven though its not necessarily legal. In fact, it could fall under the definition of both vandalism and street obstruction without a permit under the Municipal Code of Chicago. Nevertheless, the group remains stalwart in its resolve to bring attention to the dangers posed by current street infrastructureand its not alone.

The Crosswalk Collective (LACC) is an LA-based group of community activists who paint DIY crosswalks on busy intersections in order to ensure pedestrian safety when crossing streets. Their website even includes guides on how exactly others can paint their own guerrilla crosswalks.

The before and after of a crosswalk painted by Crosswalk Collective in Los Angeles. Crosswalk Collective

Crossing the street here in Los Angeles is a harrowing experience, a spokesperson for LACC told The Daily Beast. And if you have a small child with you, you notice it even more because often you wont have enough time to cross the street, even where some safety infrastructure does exist.

They added that the sidewalk doesnt necessarily offer safety either because the intersections are so poorly designed that drivers lose control and drive into buildings and restaurants on a pretty regular basis.

The statistics bear this out. A report released early this year from traffic safety nonprofit Streets Are For Everyone found that Angelenos are dying at a higher rate on the streets than the rest of the country by a fair margin. Pedestrians and cyclists are killed in LA at a rate of 2.9 per 100,000 peoplemuch higher than the national average of 2.2 per capita. Moreover, unhoused pedestrians are killed at a rate of 116.6 per capita. Thats 53 times the national average.

Everything is hostile to pedestrians, from the widespread use of beg buttons to the countdown clocks that last only long enough for able-bodied adults to cross the street, LACC said. Cars are the number one killer of kids in Los Angeles and its not hard to see why.

The Peoples CDOT readied their equipment, using only flashlights and the street lamps to light their way. The plan was to install a set of street calming barriersmade of several PVC pipes adhered to cinder blocks with industrial glueat a busy crosswalk near a school and a public park. That way if cars wanted to drive past, theyd have to slow down in order to navigate the barrier. While it doesnt stop the cars outright, it does make drivers think twice before speeding byand that may make all the difference.

The crew needed to work quickly though. There was a police station blocks awaysteps really. There was no time to waste.

A palpable nervous energy hung in the air like static electricity before a lightning strike. Someone asked if we all had heard about the driver who struck four pedestrians outside of Guaranteed Rate Field before a White Sox game earlier that week and sent them to the hospital in critical condition. We all had. People nodded solemnly and kept working, as if the story hardened the resolve of what they were doing.

Two members of the Peoples CDOT work to set up the traffic calming installation at a crosswalk in Chicagos South Side. Tony Ho Tran

Everyone who bikes knows someone whos been hurt, a Peoples CDOT member told The Daily Beast. Ive seen people get hit by cars. Ive been hit by cars. Its pretty bad.

Once the materials were ready, the group transported everything by foot and cargo bikes to the site blocks away. As soon as they arrived, everyone quickly went over the plan and began workingcaulking cinder blocks to the ground near the crosswalk and securing the posts with glue.

It was a Friday night in the summer, though, which meant that even in this quiet South Side neighborhood there were plenty of people walking and driving by. Occasionally, pedestrians would stop to look at what the group was doing for a while before going on their way. More often, though, cars would screech by as if to prove how much the installation was needed.

See? Thats what Im talking about, another member told The Daily Beast. Cars will do that all day and nightand the city will do nothing about it.

One plastic speed bump can transform an intersection and save lives. If the City's CDOT won't do it, we will. We are #ThePeoplesCDOT. pic.twitter.com/kVNWYirdL2  The People's CDOT (@ThePeoplesCDOT) December 18, 2022

The installation neared its finish. As members began attaching Peoples CDOT fliers to the posts, though, an older white man began walking towards the group. He had been watching for the past five minutes. A stony look on his face steadily grew from confusion to a righteous anger that seemed to say, Get off my lawn.

What are you guys doing gathering here? he asked no one in particular. Everyone continued to set up silently. This seemed unsatisfactory to him because he asked louder, Who do you work for?

We work for the people, John said.

The people? He laughed, though it didnt seem like he found any of it very funny. Who approved this? Hey, Im asking questions. Do you live here?

If you want to learn more, you can fill out our survey, John said, pointing to a QR code on one of the fliers.

The man squinted and stared at the flier on the PVC pipe. He shook his head before asking again, Who are you? He took one last look at the group before storming back into a house less than half a block away.

A flier from the Peoples CDOT explaining the traffic calming installation. Tony Ho Tran

After he left, the group finished setting up the last of the installation with a little more urgency. An angry older white guy was bad news, like how a dead albatross portends doom for sailors. For The Peoples CDOT, that might mean copsand no one wanted to go to jail that night.

Soon, they finished. The group silently gathered up all their equipment. John muttered something about going back to the sidewalk where they prepped before taking off on his cargo bike. Without another word from anyone, the group took off in separate directions as if choreographed, walking into the safety and security of the warm summer night.

Thats the first time someones come up to us in a confrontational way, John said later. People typically come up to us in an appreciative way and to say thank you. No ones ever directly approached us before.

It was a few days after the installationand John seemed annoyed.

After the group had a quick debrief on the sidewalk following the installation, everyone went home except for me. I walked back to where the group did their workonly to discover that the entire installation was gone.

For a moment, I wondered if I was at the right crosswalk. Not even five minutes had passed since we left the area. Thats when I noticed a pile of cinder blocks and PVC pipes against the fence of the park. Outlines of caulk and glue from where the cinder blocks sat remained on the street.

Someonelikely the angry old white guycame by and removed everything as soon as we left.

The equipment from the Peoples CDOT installation dismantled and placed on the sidewalk. Tony Ho Tran

The incident highlighted an inherent issue with the actions of guerrilla activists like the Peoples CDOT and Crosswalk Collective: the general lack of community approval. While the goals of these groups to ensure safe conditions for pedestrians and cyclists are no doubt noble, the way they go about doing so can be seen as unwanted, unasked for, illegal, and problematic.

One neighbor near the installation who spoke to The Daily Beast on the condition of anonymity criticized the effort, taking issue with parachuting into a place to do something quickly without a lot of buy-in from the community.

What that speaks to is a lack of understanding, the neighbor said. And a lack of groundwork too.

John doesnt see it that way, though. To him and the rest of the Peoples CDOT, what theyre doing is more than just mere vigilante activism, its addressing a profound failure by a society that prioritizes cars over people. Its doubling down on radical safety measures in communities that desperately need it.

We werent happy about it, but it doesnt stop us from continuing our mission, John said. If anything, it only pushes us to do more, because we want to show Chicagoans whats possible on their streets.

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Image: Pregnancy Justice/Shutterstock (Shutterstock)

In two weeks, a 33-year-old woman named Kelsey Carpenter will go to court in San Diego, California, to seek the dismissal of murder and felony child abuse charges against her. Carpenters alleged crime is a home birth that ended in her newborns death after she went into labor early. She chose to give birth at home because she feared her baby would be taken from her due to her substance use. And instead of being offered addiction support services or time to grieve the loss of her baby, Carpenter now faces up to two decades in prison.



Carpenter is one of dozens of clients receiving representation from attorneys at Pregnancy Justice, a nonprofit advocacy group thats just welcomed a new president, Lourdes Rivera, to help steer it through this muddy and volatile legal climate for reproductive rights. In a phone interview, Rivera told me about growing up in a Puerto Rican community and learning as a child about the legacy of forced sterilizations performed on women in her community. Since her upbringing in the 80s, Riverawho led the Center for Reproductive Rights U.S. programs through the Trump erafears the conditions for all pregnant people have, in some ways, only become more dangerous.

Read more

Rivera notes that 38 states have feticide laws that were originally designed to protect pregnant people from violence, but have often been co-opted by anti-abortion advocates to criminalize them. Her organization in 2022 counted laws in 11 states that create broad fetal personhood rights. But most pregnancy-related criminal charges result from the misapplication of laws that actually have nothing to do with pregnancy. This happens in every state, not just those with abortion bans, Rivera said. Abortion bans may prime the pump for the prosecution of pregnancy, but at the end of the day, its really up to the local prosecutors.

Still, the fall of Roe and shadow of abortion stigma legitimize the idea of an embryo as a baby and the pregnant person as secondary to its rights and personhood, Rivera says. All of the pregnant persons behaviorsincluding behaviors that wouldnt otherwise be criminal, were they not pregnantbecome subject to state surveillance and punishment. As Pregnancy Justices outgoing president and founder Lynn Paltrow told The Cut earlier this month, From the moment you become pregnant, youre endangering an unborn child.

Rivera previously worked with Paltrow as a law student working at the ACLUs Reproductive Freedom Project, and also served as a Georgetown Womens Law and Public Policy fellow with the National Womens Law Center, where she co-directed a project to ensure legal support for incarcerated women. Riveras intersecting work within the legal movements for reproductive and criminal was formative to her careerand her understanding of the increasing policing pregnant people are facing in our post-Roe reality.

In recent years, Pregnancy Justice has offered legal advocacy to three different pregnant women who faced policing by the child welfare system after testing positive for drug use for consuming poppy seeds. This year, the organization is working on two new similar cases in New Jersey. All of the women were drug tested by their hospitals without their knowledge or consent. These cases, Rivera says, are emblematic of how pregnancy automatically makes you vulnerable to new policingas well as the culpability of the medical system.

Experts have predicted the end of Roe will worsen the nations long-running maternal mortality crisis. And according to Rivera, this is true not just because of the danger of denying or delaying emergency abortion care, but because more and more pregnant people fear theyll be drug tested, surveilled, or turned over to police for seeking care or disclosing drug use to get help.

Indigenous communities have faced jarringly high rates of nonconsensual drug testing targeting pregnant people for years, as well as the looming threat of pregnancy-related criminalization; as a result, many Indigenous pregnant people forego seeking life-saving prenatal care at all to protect themselves. This, and the context of a long history of experimentation and distrust between the medical profession and communities of color, leads to disparate health outcomes, Rivera said. Under her leadership, Pregnancy Justice and over 100 other organizations are calling on the federal government to establish stronger protections for pregnant peoples medical privacyincluding prohibiting nonconsensual drug testing and reportingunder HIPAA.

Through these bleak realities a year without Roe, Rivera still points to sources for hope, like an Ohio Appeals Court ruling last month vacating a womans conviction under the states Corrupting Another with Drugs law for using drugs while pregnant, establishing that the law wasnt meant to be applied to pregnant people. Also last month, Colorado Gov. Jared Polis (D) signed into law a bill to allow judges and district attorneys to defer or delay the sentences of pregnant or postpartum people. Were seeing that reproductive rights and justice arent just a third-rail issue anymore, Rivera said.

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(Independent)

Emmerdale star Meg Johnson has died, aged 86.

Johnsons family revealed that the actor, who debuted on the ITV soap in 2002, had dementia for the last few years.

A statement shared by Johnsons family said: It is with great sadness that we announce that actress Meg Johnson passed away peacefully yesterday evening surrounded by her family.

Meg was a kind and wonderful lady, full of warmth and always with a twinkle in her eye. Meg had an outstanding career that ended with her playing Pearl in Emmerdale.

The statement said Johnson battled on personally and professionally following her dementia diagnosis.

She will be greatly missed by everyone who knew her, her family said.

The death of Johnson, who played Pearl Ladderbanks in Emmderdale, death comes four months after her husband, ITV Granada announcer Charles Foster, died.

Prior to joining Emmerdale, Johnson spent several years playing Brigid McKenna in Channel 4 soap opera Brookside.

In the early 1980s, she starred as Eunice Gee in ITVs Coronation Street, a character she briefly reprised in 1999.

She was also part of the cast of Victoria Wood As Seen On TV alongside the late comedian as well as Dame Julie Walters and Celia Imrie.

In 1997, she took to the stage in the original cast of the London revival of Chicago, playing prison warder Matron Mama Morton for more than a year. She can be heard on the London Cast Recording of Chicago, singing When Youre Good To Mama, Me And My Baby and Class,

Additional reporting by Agencies
Meghan and Harry in their flop era, says Rolling Stone magazine

Rolling Stone magazine claims that the couple are in their flop era (Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved)

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are in their flop era, according to Rolling Stone magazine.

The US outlet suggested they were going through a period of failure after losing lucrative deals with streaming giants including Spotify.

Part of the issue the Sussexes are currently facing is that they have made their brand about their beef with the Royal Family. Now, their feud has reached a stalemate it feels like there isnt much more to say, Rolling Stone reports.

Harry and Meghan signed several lucrative deals after leaving the Royal Family in 2020 (AP)

The Sussexes are in a difficult position: appetite is waning for content about their rift with the royal institution, because digesting it in so many different formats now feels like overkill.

But there isnt much enthusiasm for their other projects, like the Archetypes podcast, which arent about that.

Following their departure from the Royal Family and subsequent move to the US in 2020, the couple signed a number of lucrative deals with global streaming giants and launched their own multi-media organisation Archewell.

However, on June 15 it was reported that Markles deal with Spotify was coming to an end after just one series of her podcast, Archetypes. Media reports soon circulated that Spotify were unhappy with her lack of output and engagement for the 15 million deal, which only saw 12 episodes released.

Jeremy Zimmer, chief executive of the United Talent Agency, reportedly told an advertising festival in Cannes: Turns out Meghan Markle was not a great audio talent, or necessarily any kind of talent.

Spotify terminated their contract after one season of Archetypes (AFP via Getty Images)

And, you know, just because youre famous doesnt make you great at something.

Following their dramatic interview with US host Oprah Winfrey in March 2021, it was estimated that the Sussexes deals with Netflix, Apple and Spotify had secured them over 100 million to maintain their new celebrity lifestyles.

Their docuseries Harry & Meghan, which detailed their romance and departure from the Royal Family, remained at the top of Netflixs most-watched list for weeks, while Prince Harrys book Spare broke world records for becoming the fastest-selling non-fiction book of all time.

Their other projects however have been less well-received. Last May, it was confirmed that Netflix had cancelled development of Pearl, an animated series created by Archewell Productions that had planned to focus on influential women from history.
Men perceive less gender bias than women in the Utah workplace  what can we do about it?

General contractor Stephanie Dailey speaks with Falco Concretes Branden Andrews at a job site in Draper on Thursday, June 29, 2023. A Utah Women and Leadership report shows that men perceive less gender bias in the workplace than women do. Utah men perceive bias slightly less than men do on a global scale. | Laura Seitz, Deseret News

Stephanie Dailey started working in construction when she was 16 years old. Growing up with her dad running Steven Dailey Construction Inc., she loved watching him run into grateful clients at the grocery store and point out homes he had built when they drove around town.

Despite being in a male-dominated industry for most of her life, Dailey didnt think being a woman made her job any harder. It wasnt until she started taking on more leadership positions that she started feeling she was treated differently based on her gender.

I may be trying to get some decisions from clients or trying to keep clients on a timeline and Im portrayed as bossy or rude, whereas my male counterpart  if he does the same thing, hes just being firm and getting the job done, said Dailey, now a licensed general contractor who specializes in building custom homes for Steven Dailey Construction.

A recent study by the Utah Women and Leadership Project suggests that Dailey is not alone. The study presented Utahns with statements about different types of gender bias in the workplace  salary inequality, exclusion and harassment, to name a few  and asked them to rate their level of agreement about their occurrence. In most categories, the majority of women agreed.

Men, on the other hand, agreed much less. The study concludes that this disparity in perception of workplace gender bias may be a large part of the problem  if more men were aware of unequal treatment, they might be able to change their habits.

Related

What kinds of gender bias are women at work seeing?

Susan Madsen, founder and director of the Utah Women & Leadership Project, pointed out that one of the widest discrepancies in perception the study found between men and women was concerning the gender pay gap. When asked whether women get paid less than their male counterparts, 72% of women agreed and 51% of men neither agreed nor disagreed.

In Utah, we have so many people that think its a myth, Madsen said. Either that or they justify it, pointing to maternity leave or women choosing to take career breaks.

The research is clear, that even if you get to apples versus apples, even if you take out career breaks, there is pure discrimination, Madsen said.

There was also a large difference in male and female perceptions of what the study calls disproportionate constraints. For example, 86% of women agreed that women feel the need to be more careful with their communication style, and only 40% of men agreed.

This speaks to Daileys experience of being called bossy. Because women are often expected to be more quiet or passive, her straightforward nature isnt always well-received, even when its necessary.

Another form of disproportionate constraint is womens ideas being taken more seriously when repeated by men, with which 77% of women and 46% of men said they agreed.

This happens all the time, Madsen said. Women will give an idea and nobodyll move, and then a man 10 minutes later gives the same idea and everybody jumps over and says thats great.

When Kaitlyn Eaton, now a senior implementation specialist at Big D Construction, worked in human resources at a manufacturing company, her higher-ups did not believe her when she told them that the company was violating a labor law. After verifying with a male lawyer, they found she was right.

It was my job to know that, Eaton said. It just felt ridiculous for me to have to prove my expertise in a way that I feel like men dont have to.

Women listed other day-to-day examples of gender bias  being expected to order lunch or take notes during a meeting, being called girls while men are called men, being excluded from social gatherings among co-workers  things that seem insignificant, but build up over time to become exhausting and eventually push some women to leave their companies or fields, Madsen said.

Related

Interestingly, one of the only types of gender bias men saw more than women was self-silencing.

The things that you can blame men for, like male privilege, they see less. But if were talking about women not having confidence or its womens fault, then they see it more, she said.

General contractor Stephanie Dailey walks through a job site in Draper on Thursday, June 29, 2023. A Utah Women and Leadership report shows that men perceive less gender bias in the workplace than women do. Utah men perceive bias slightly less than men do on a global scale. | Laura Seitz, Deseret News

Awareness: The first step to change

Research by Boston Consulting Group demonstrates that 96% of companies saw progress when men were actively involved in gender inclusion efforts, and 30% saw progress when only women were involved.

In order for men and women to work toward real change, the Utah Women & Leadership study argues, both parties must be equally aware of the issues at hand.

Theres a lot of men here in Utah that I believe want to get tools  want to understand  but dont have them, Madsen said.

Related

Many women agree giving men those tools means sparking up conversations that are initially uncomfortable yet ultimately beneficial. Cydni Tetro, founder and CEO of multiple technology companies and president of Women Tech Council, can speak to the effectiveness of this type of dialogue.

She recalls a particular meeting with one of her male colleagues. Although Tetro was the technical expert in the room, the outside partner to whom they were presenting addressed all his questions to her colleague. But because Tetro had previously discussed situations like this with her colleague before the meeting, he was able to redirect questions back to her.

He became aware of something that he wasnt aware of and became part of the solution, Tetro said.

The conversation can start on either side  Madsen encouraged men to ask women how they can better support them in the workplace.

The study recommends employers implement change on a companywide level as well. Women and men had similar perceptions about gender-based hostility in the workplace; if human resources invested in unconscious bias training the same way they do sexual harassment training, the study concludes, some of these other problems could be alleviated.

Men hold most of the leadership positions in Utah. If these men have a better understanding of the unique challenges women face because of gender bias, Madsen said, that awareness can trickle down to create a more equitable workplace.

Dailey says her success is proof of the good open-minded male leaders can do.

All you gotta do is have a few really great leaders in a company or in an industry that see the power in these women and the hard work that these women are doing, and give them an opportunity thats going to change the world, she said.
KABUL, July 2 (Xinhua) -- Police in Kabul, capital of Afghanistan, have recently arrested 13 people on charges of involvement in criminal activities, a statement of the police department said Sunday.

The arrested individuals were involved in theft, robbery, illegal possession of arms, and violation of law and order in the city, the statement said.

It added that police made the arrests during search operations, crackdown on outlaws and routine checking at police checkpoints.

Police in Kabul will not allow anyone to undermine security or create law and order problems for the society, the statement said.

Similarly, police in Afghanistan's eastern Nangarhar province have arrested 93 people on charges of involvement in criminal activities over the past month and seized arms and ammunition from their possession.

The Afghan caretaker government has vowed to crack down on criminal elements across Afghanistan to ensure law and order in the war-torn country. 
Photo: ASSOCIATED PRESS (AP)

Here is a closer look into some of the scandalous and messy events that have occurred in the life of 74-year-old Conservative Supreme Court Justice.

Ex-wife Kathy Ambush

Clarence Thomas with son, Jamal

Kathy Ambush is Clarence Thomas first wife. What many people dont know is that shes also Black. They met as college students. Thomas was attending the College of Holy Cross and Kathy was a student at a school close by. The couple were married in 1971, the same year Thomas graduated. They had one child together, Jamal Adeen Thomas. Thomas and Ambush were separated in 1981 and their divorce was finalized in 1984. Kathy and Jamal keep mysterious and nearly invisible profiles.

Read more

The Affair(s)

Lillian McEwen, ex-girlfriend of Clarence Thomas

During his first marriage, Clarence had an affair with Lillian McEwen, who was working for the Senate Judiciary Committee at the time. In fact, shes written about the salacious affair in her memoir and has spoken publicly about it. According to Lillian, Thomas had an obsession with porn and drank heavily when they were together.

Booze and Financial Trouble

Image: Screen grab from CNN via Diana Walker/The LIFE Images Collection/Getty Images (Other)

Thomas admits his drinking was a problem in the 1980s. While he was married to Ambush (his Black wife), he used the student loan money to hang out at bars. While Thomas worked for the EEOC, he decided to give up drinking as it was not financially or physically sustainable. Still, Thomas was a financial mess for much of his adult life. He wrote in his memoir, My Grandfathers Son, that he would have to choose between eating Burger King or taking the bus. While working at the EEOC, he also received several eviction notices, couldnt pay loans, or pay his credit cards.

Anita Hill



Supreme Court Moments in History: Clarence Thomas and Anita Hill

October 11, 1991. During the confirmation hearings for Clarence Thomas to the Supreme Court, Anita Hill, a former legal adviser of the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission EEOC, accused him of sexual harassment. She said he repeatedly asked her on dates, even after her refusal; Anita Hill also said Thomas described pornographic material in excessive detail and described his own sexual life as well as his anatomy to her. Thomas strongly denied the accusations and claimed that the testimony lead to a sort of modern-day lynching of his character. Check out the video above.



Other Accusers



The Choice 2020: Angela Wright (interview) | FRONTLINE

Angela Wright also worked at the EEOC and was subpoenaed to possibly give her own testimony, accusing Thomas of sexual misconduct. She was not called, according to Angela Wright, because she was fired from the EEOC and it would look like she was trying to get revenge on Thomas. Wright says in an interview that there were three other women also ready to testify about Thomas, but were never called as well.

Marrying Virginia Ginni Lamp

Image: Screen grab from Arkansas Democrat Gazette (Other)

Thomas met and started dating conservative activist, Virginia Lamp, in 1986. He wrote in his memoir that it was even a surprise to himself that he began dating a white woman, as earlier in his life he was very against interracial relationships. He wrote that Lamps family was not welcoming of him at first but eventually they all got over their prejudices and became a family. They were married in 1987.

Who Is Virginia Lamp?



How Ginni Thomas Found Her Influence

Virginia Lamp is hand full. No one can deny that. She grew up in Omaha in an extremely conservative family. She knew that she wanted to work in Republican politics as a teenager. Lamp is a lawyer and lobbyist who constantly speaks out about America becoming too liberal. During the Trump presidency, Lamp was in close contact with Trump and his team. There is evidence that after Trump lost the 2020 presidential election, she sent texts to Trumps chief of staff, Mark Meadows, to overturn the results. She was present during the Jan 6. attack on the Capitol even though she claims she left early. Her involvement with political affairs has made people question if there is a political conflict of interest since her husband is a Supreme Court justice.





Reputation on the Supreme Court

Photo: Erin Schaff; POOL PHOTO (AP)

Thomas is known to be one of the most conservative members of the Supreme Court. He is also known to be stubborn, strict, silent at most times, and unwilling to accept questions, or listen to others. He keeps his personal life as secretive as possible but lets his beliefs be known when making decisions on the bench.

Recent Upset

Photo: Pablo Martinez Monsivais (AP)

In May of 2022, there was a draft opinion leak from the Supreme Court about Roe v Wade. Thomas vocalized his frustrations claiming that the leak caused trust to be gone forever. In June of 2022, the Supreme Court overturned Roe V Wade, a topic that Thomas refused to comment on since the beginning of his career. Now, he is calling for the Court to revisit three cases which are about consensual same-sex activity, same-sex marriage, and contraception.

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Migrants seeking asylum in the U.S., gather at the Paso Del Norte international bridge in Ciudad Juarez

MEXICO CITY (Reuters) - Mexico's government on Saturday slammed a tough new state immigration law in Florida spearheaded by Republican Governor and U.S. presidential contender Ron DeSantis, and the country vowed to help protect undocumented Mexicans in that state.

DeSantis is seeking the 2024 Republican nomination for president, and his new Florida law, which took effect on Saturday, is seen as a preview of the kind of hardline policies he would seek on immigration enforcement.

Last month, Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador urged U.S. Latino voters to reject DeSantis, accusing the politician of trying to win votes at the expense of migrants.

According to DeSantis' website, the new law includes allocating funds to move migrants without lawful status out of the state; restricting access to ID cards; and requiring more businesses to use an electronic system to validate a person's eligibility to work.

Mexico's Foreign Ministry in a statement said the provisions could prompt discrimination and racial profiling, and give rise to hostile environments, intimidation and hate crimes.

"Criminalization is not the way to resolve the phenomenon of undocumented migration," the ministry said, describing the new measures as driven by xenophobia and white nationalism.

It added that Mexico respects U.S. legislative processes, yet views the Florida law as working against joint efforts by the U.S. and Mexico to treat migrants with respect.

Mexican consulates in the U.S. will work to inform migrants about their rights and partner with civil society groups to identify potential cases of abuse, the ministry said.

(Reporting by Daina Beth Solomon; Editing by David Gregorio)
Nearly three years after Delta Air Lines struck a partnership with LATAM Airlines Group, Latin Americas largest airline, their joint plans to connect North America and South America are taking off. Miami has a front-row seat.

LATAM, formed in 2012 by the merger of Chiles LAN airline and Brazils TAM carrier, is adding a new daily flight in October from Miami International Airport to Medellin, Colombia, and then expects to add more flights from the Magic City to South America in subsequent years.

Delta is adding people to its 500-employee Miami office, hiring ramp agents and betting big on the airports cargo capabilities. The airline has another 400 staff working at Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International and Palm Beach International airports.

The Atlanta-based carrier  one of three biggest U.S. airlines  has also increased the number of flights departing from Miami to elsewhere in the United States, since last years regulatory approval of the LATAM partnership. Theres new service to Orlando, Boston, Ronald Reagan Washington National in D.C., Los Angeles, and Salt Lake City. All told, its an additional 30-plus daily flights to 11 destinations.

The partnership is bringing new alternatives across all of the U.S. and South America, said Alain Bellemare, Deltas president of international service. It is game-changing, especially for Miami. Previously, Delta mainly served South America from Atlanta and John F. Kennedy International Airport in New York.

In 2019, Delta agreed to pay about $2 billion for a 20% stake in LATAM, which at the time was part of American Airlines Oneworld Alliance. Then the Covid-19 pandemic hit, grounding global travel. After LATAM filed for bankruptcy in 2020, the companies restructured terms. Delta eventually invested about $660 million for 10% equity.

In September 2022, the U.S. Department of Transportation approved the partnership. Last week, four Delta and LATAM executives visited Miami. A Miami Herald reporter talked to them on June 28 at the W Hotel in Brickell. Participating in the conversation were: Deltas Bellemare; Martin St. George, chief commercial officer, LATAM Airlines Group; Perry Cantarutti, Deltas senior vice president alliances and international; and Luciano Macagno, Deltas managing director of Latin America, the Caribbean and South Florida.

The conversation was edited for clarity and brevity.

 Question: What drove Delta to this partnership?

 Deltas Cantarutti:

Our flying before the joint venture to South America was adequate, it was marginally profitable, but it was a static network. And so, we didnt see a lot of growth. We felt the South America market was growing, and without some different strategy we were not going to be able to participate in that growth.

South America is a higher growth market than the U.S. If you look at number of trips taken by citizen, its one-third of the U.S. So, its still a relatively immature market compared to wealthier countries. But we do expect to see very good growth for the next 20 years.

One area we see growing in general for international travel from the U.S. is high-end leisure travel. People who want to go further afield. They want special experiences. I think South America plays well into that. People have been to Europe and are looking for new horizons. Thats where LATAM and Delta really work well together.

 Q: Do you have enough pilots?

 Deltas Bellemare:

Were in good shape. We did a lot of hiring over the past 12 to 24 months and a lot of training. We opened a new pilot training facility in Salt Lake City.

 Q: Why is this partnership significant?

 LATAMs St. George:

In the airline business, joint ventures are not incredibly common. Its a hypercompetitive business. Were all trained vigorously about antitrust issues. And the hurdle for approving a join venture is high. We got this partnership approved because there was not historically a lot of overlap between LATAM and Delta. We are connecting the biggest airline in South America thats got a very small footprint in North America, with one of the biggest airlines in North America that among the big three has the smallest footprint in South America. We at LATAM now have access into Atlanta, which is the biggest hub in the entire world.

 Q: What does this partnership mean for MIA and South Florida?

 Bellemare:

Our power is in the corporate market and that demand is absolutely going to be growing here over time. We are going to increase our presence here.

 Deltas Macagno:

We have a new office already within LATAMs cargo headquarters, obviously completely isolated from that operation, but within that building. We opened that office two weeks ago. It is for passengers. These are mostly commercial jobs in sales and marketing.

 Q: Most of the new Delta routes announced are from Atlanta. Is there really that much demand in Atlanta for travel to South America?

 Bellemare:

Atlanta is the largest hub in the world. If you want to have connectivity, you go to Atlanta. We are going to focus on Miami because this is the gateway to South America, but were also going to focus on Atlanta because by flying into Atlanta, we basically connect the U.S. domestic market like nobody else can.

 Q: Could Atlanta become a competitor to Miami as a business city?

 Bellemare:

Over the past 20 years, the presence of the hub and the international presence of the hub has brought international business to Atlanta. For example, theres a Hyundai factory. But I dont think anything ever replaces Miami for South America.

 Q: Can you provide an update on your Miami to Havana flights?

 Macagno:

There are two flights per day. We plan to continue for the foreseeable future. Were happy to have those flights in place. Theyre operating smoothly. Its not part of the scope of the joint venture, though.

 Q: And what about LATAM?

 St. George:

LATAM flew into Havana but stopped during the 2020 bankruptcy. We will start again later this year, from Lima. But we dont expect to add anything in Miami.

 Q: Will LATAM resume flights into Caracas?

 St. George:

We just received the approval from the Venezuelan government to fly from our hub in Lima to Caracas. Were not yet flying, but we are selling the service which could start in August or September. Its important to note because of U.S. sanctions, we cannot sell tickets in the U.S. for these flights.

We also have approval from the Venezuelan government to fly from Bogota, but need the authorization from the Colombian government. Were absolutely hopeful well get approval.

 Q: Is LATAM planning to add other flights from Miami to South America?

 St. George:

Absolutely but theres nothing to announce. One of the big issues we have is we are very short on airplanes right now due to supply chain issues going back to Covids effect on airplane manufacturers. So, were well behind on the planes that we thought we were going to have. But over the next five years, we plan to add and grow.

 Q: How important is cargo at Miami airport?

 St. George:

LATAMs biggest cargo market is Miami. We have about 500 to 600 employees at the airport running operations. By the end of the year, well have a fleet of 20 air freighters. None are currently based in Miami, but they all transit Miami regularly. Miami is a growth market.

We dont have antitrust approval yet to work in cargo with as much breadth as we would like. Were waiting for U.S. government to approve. Cargo is an important part of the partnership.

 Q: What kind of cargo?

 St. George:

Inbound traffic is dominated by perishables. We have a continual flow from Colombia and Ecuador of flowers that peaks dramatically for Mothers Day. We have other perishables from South America like salmon, grapes, seafood, asparagus, and berries; stuff you cant ship by sea.

The beauty of Miami is from a road access perspective. Its one-day access to a big chunk of the key markets in the U.S. It really has become a market thats seen as a focal point for shipping perishables into the U.S. The salmon you can fish yesterday and eat tonight. Its got fantastic facilities in terms of refrigeration. Weve made very big investments. Its also very profitable.
Former Vice President Mike Pence was a surprise guest this weekend at a rally in Paris, France, hosted by Iranian dissidents in support of overthrowing Irans regime.

Mr Pence, whos running in the increasingly-crowded 2024 Republican primary, railed against the authoritarian government in Tehran and what he claimed were efforts by the Biden administration to revive the 2015 nuclear accord between Iran, the US, and several European countries. That deal was abandoned by the Trump administration who accused Tehran of violating the deal in spirit.

Now, a new administration is threatening to unravel all of the progress we made in marinalising the tyrannical regime in Tehran, Mr Pence claimed.

They are working overtime to restore the Iran Nuclear Deal, putting Tehran back on the fast track to obtaining nuclear weapons. The Independent has reached out to the White House for comment on those comments.

He also claimed that Iran could develop a nuclear weapon in a year if sanctions were rolled back and the 2015 deal snapped back into place.

However, the Biden administration has shown no signs, at least publicly, of reigniting the abandoned agreement.

If there was any possibility of restarting Iran negotiations, those would now have likely hit a roadblock with the suspension of Rob Malley, Bidens special envoy to Iran, over an internal State Department review into whether he mishandled classified material.

Sources with knowledge of the situation described Mr Malley as a proponent of the 2015 Iran nuclear deal to The Independent.

The State Department has refused to confirm in recent weeks whether talks regarding the nuclear deal are ongoing, and has only said that Mr Malleys status is under review.

Pence appeared at the annual event hosted by the National Council of Resistance of Iran (NCRI) just days after an unannounced visit to Ukraine to meet President Volodymyr Zelensky.

The dissident groups event went off without a hitch and was attended by thousands despite an initial refusal by the French government to allow the group a permit for an outdoor rally. That decision was later reversed by a French court.

Authorities had warned that the threat of a terror attack necessitated the rallys cancelation. NCRIs previous events in Paris have faced similar threats including in 2018 when a diplomat working for Irans government and three others were arrested and later convicted of a bomb plot.

The former vice presidents European trip comes as his bid for the White House has yet to clear double-digit levels of support in any major polling, though he is likely to qualify for at least one presidential debate.
Former Vice President Mike Pence. Alex Brandon/AP

Pence supported the Supreme Court ruling which struck down affirmative action in college admissions.

He said that while affirmative action may have been needed in the past, that is no longer the case.

"I really do believe that we can move forward as a country," he told CBS News on Sunday.

Reacting to the Supreme Court ruling striking down affirmative action, former Vice President Mike Pence on Sunday said that he doesn't believe there is racial inequality in the US education system.

Pence, who supported the court's decision, said on the CBS News program "Face the Nation" that while racial inequality in education was once a significant issue in the country, he felt as though the country had moved beyond a need to employ affirmative action in higher education admissions.

"I really don't believe there is. I believe there was," he told host Margaret Brennan regarding the need for affirmative action. "I mean, there may have been a time when affirmative action was necessary simply to open the doors of all of our schools and universities, but I think that time has passed."

"I really believe that the accomplishments of America's students, particularly our minority students, the great achievements that African-Americans have reached in this country on that educational foundation, I think tells us that we've opened those doors and minority students on our campuses have excelled and I'm confident those doors will remain open," he continued. "And we'll continue to move forward as a colorblind society, which is really, the aspiration I believe of every American."

"I really do believe that we can move forward as a country and embrace the notion that we're all going to be judged not on the color of our skin, but on the content of our character, and in this case, on our GPA," he added.

In a 6-3 decision, the court's dominant conservative bloc aligned against the continuation of affirmative action, arguing that the admission practices of Harvard University and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill violated the 14th Amendment's equal protection clause.

The court's two Black justices, Clarence Thomas and Ketanji Brown Jackson, were on the opposite sides of the ruling, with Thomas decrying affirmative action as "rudderless, race-based preferences" and Jackson in her dissent criticizing the ruling as "let-them-eat-cake obliviousness" to racism.

Sonia Sotomayor, the first Latina justice to serve on the Supreme Court, wrote in her dissent that "the devastating impact of this decision cannot be overstated."

Read the original article on Business Insider
A missing 16-year-old girl emerged from the Canadian wilderness unscathed after a 2 day search and rescue effort

View of the mountains at Golden Ears Park in British Columbia, Canada. Gabriel Mello/Getty Images

A 16-year-old girl was separated from her hiking group in the Canadian wilderness and went missing.

After 54 hours and a massive search and rescue effort, she left on the same trail she came in on.

The RCMP said the teenager is unharmed, except for a few mosquito bites.

A teenage girl who went missing in the Canadian wilderness found her way out of a provincial park in British Columbia after 54 hours, authorities said.

The Royal Canadian Mounted Police said in a statement that 16-year-old Esther Wang entered the Golden Ears Park on June 27 as part of a hiking group. At some point, the girl became separated from her group, and when none of them could find her, they notified park officials.

Finally, after a two-day search-and-rescue effort, involving 16 teams and a host of volunteers, Wang walked out of the East Canyon Trail "on her own" around 9:30 p.m. on June 19, the RCMP statement said.

"The East Canyon Trail is the same trail she was on when she became separated from her group," the statement said.

Wang was reunited with her family that same evening after being assessed by medical staff.

In a press conference, RCMP Superintendent Wendy Mehat told Canadian reporters that Wang was "tired, but unharmed aside from some mosquito bites."

Mehat added that Wang is "healthy, she's happy, she is with her family. That's the best possible outcome for us."

Rescue team member Ryan Smith told CBC News that Wang was "a very determined young lady" and praised her for her level-headedness.

Wang "did take precautions. She did have food and water. She did appear to stop and then think, orientate herself, and planned accordingly," Smith said, according to CBC.

The RCMP reminded hikers to prepare for their trips by bringing essentials like food, water, extra clothing, navigational aids, and a first aid kit.

Read the original article on Insider
Photo Illustration by Luis G. Rendon/The Daily Beast/Getty

The first cat to go missing on North 30th Road in Hollywood, Florida, was a 3-year-old orange tabby named Toby.

Weeks later, a 4-year-old domestic shorthair mix named Juan Pierre who lived around the corner didnt come home after his daily outdoor stroll. Two days after that, 14-year-old Kiwi failed to make it back, setting off alarm bells across the neighborhood off I-95.

The fear was heightened because other felines had been rescued from a nearby trap lined with catnip and food last September, and another cat named Chloe had vanished for a few weeks last year.

Pretty soon, the saga of the missing cats had consumed the Hollywood Hills neighborhood, a quiet, family-oriented community just 10 minutes from the beach. And it didnt take long before a few residents zeroed in on a neighbor, David Capozzi.

This neighborhood used to be a sanctuary for cats. Now its their worst nightmare, Richard Lothian, who lives six houses away from Capozzi, told The Daily Beast. The worst part is not knowing where the cats went and if they are still alive.

There is no evidence linking Capozzi to the missing cats, but some of his comments and the fact that the trap was found under a boat in his front yard has put him in the center of an intense finger-pointing maelstrom. There have been police reports, complaints to local animal services, and a temporary restraining order for stalking.

Several locals have morphed into vigilantes, taking it upon themselves to surveil Capozzis home for trapped animals and post flyers warning cat owners to beware of their neighbor. The interactions between him and the patrolling neighbors are tense.

Any cat that goes on my property, I trap it and it disappears, Capozzi said during one confrontation that Lothian recorded, and later provided to The Daily Beast. Just before, Lothian had called him a fat fuck.

One of the flyers posted by cat owners in Hollywood, Florida Eda Amador

According to Broward County Animal Care and Adoption, a local ordinance states any property owner has the legal right to catch or trap cats on their property and bring them to a city shelter. As of this week, a spokesperson told the Daily Beast, Capozzi has not brought any cats to the shelter. The Hollywood Police Department also said that they are aware of the reports against Capozzi and his neighbors.

We would hope that a neighborly dispute over cats would never result in beloved community pets disappearing, Emily Wood, the director of Broward County Animal Care and Adoption Center, said. We encourage people to be good neighbors and discuss their concerns if a cat wanders on their property.

Capozzi says he has never harmed a cat, and described himself in an emailed statement as an animal lover who owns an adopted cat and two dogs.

He said he has removed nuisance cats from his neighborhood and had them transported to the humane society. (Capozzi later added that a friend takes the cats to the Humane Society of Broward County on his behalf, but would not provide the friends name. The Humane Society of Broward County told The Daily Beast it does not release information about residents who bring in trapped animals, but they would have been referred to a county facility.)

In response to his past comments about disappearing cats, Capozzi said in the email it was just a snippet of a longer conversation and that Lothian has continued to invent and spread lies about him. His trap, he explained, was his way of helping the neighborhood and protecting his property.

I live in Hollywood, which is full of drug-dealers, prostitutes, and cat-hoarders, Capozzi said. These stray cats damage property and landscape, and disrupt household[s].

Toby Eda Amador

Lothian admits that he had his eye on Capozzi long before his rescue cat Toby went missing.

It began last September, when their neighbor Erik Marinos house cat Chloe went missing for about a month. Marino later told a local TV station that he believed Capozzi was to blame.

I can tell you personally, he made my daughter cry every night so Ill never forget that, Marino said. (Marino did not respond to a request for comment about the cat and Capozzi denied taking his cat.)

Lothian said that he and his wife, Eda Lourdes Amador, are known on the block for opening their home to multiple adopted cats. So about a month later, when his outdoor cat Quinny did not show up for food over the course of the day, Lothian began looking around the neighborhood.

As I was walking and calling for the cat a few houses down from me I heard Quinny meowing, he said. He says he found her in Capozzis trap.

Capozzi lives toward the end of the block in a yellow one-story house with a screen door covered with signs that read We dont call 911. Violators will be shot and Smile! Youre on camera. But Lothian said he didnt think twice about knocking on his neighbors door to bring Quinny home and was surprised by Capozzis reaction.

He said, I trap any cat that comes in my yard, hit them on the head, and dump them in the canal, Lothian claimed. I told Capozzi to let my cat go, which he did, and then I told him what he was doing is wrong. He told me to go fuck myself; I responded the same to him and left.

Capozzi did not answer repeated questions about this incident, but said Lothian is a cat hoarder who should know how outdoor cats roam. I have owned many cats over the years and some of them have gone missing, as cats do, he added. So it should be no surprise to anyone when one of these stray cats goes missing. (Lothian denied being a cat hoarder, stating that he and his wife rescue disabled or injured community cats that will be euthanized if surrendered to Animal Care, and give them a loving home.)

Quinny Richard Lothian

After saving Quinny, Lothian said, he and his wife began to check Capozzis yard almost daily. The trap, he said, remained closed until two months ago.

On April 9, Amador said, she confronted Capozzi after she noticed Toby had vanished. According to her, Capozzi would not confirm or deny that he took the orange outdoor catbut he did admit he would make any captured cats disappear.

The accusation quickly spiraled into the infamous recorded confrontation. According to Capozzi, the conversation lasted about 30 minutes, in which he told his neighbors that he could never hurt an animal but complained that their neighborhood was overrun with felines. (Lothian provided two videos of the April 9 confrontation to The Daily Beast, which depicted about five minutes of the conversation outside of Capozzis house. It is not immediately clear how long the conversation lasted.)

I explained to him that when one of these nuisance cats begins to bother me and my family and damage our property and disrupt my household and family, I do as animal control instructed me to do, Capozzi said in an email, adding that he only used the word disappear with Lothian in an effort to encourage him to keep his horde of stray cats away from me and my family.

I told him if he had a better solution to the problem, that I would welcome any suggestions. I mistakenly thought that he was honorable, and that we had reached an understanding, he said.

Instead, Lothian seemingly escalated the matter when he called the police again about missing cats. An April 27 police report says he complained to an officer that his neighbors harass him constantly. The next day, he filed a temporary restraining order petition against Lothian, alleging he and Amador stalked and trespassed onto my property, stole and destroyed property on my front yard. (The petition for the restraining order, which Lothian called absurd, was dismissed without prejudice on May 10 after Capozzi failed to appear in court for the hearing.)

For Javier Rodriguez, who also lives on the block, the very hectic fighting over the missing cats has gotten out of hand.

The neighborhood has gone crazy over this thing, he said. I almost sold my house and left at one point.

He said Capozzi is rough around the edges and may not be the most amicable guy in the neighborhood, but noted there is no evidence his neighbor has harmed any animals.

I dont trap cats, but I understand his point of view. He is just protecting his house. If he was doing something illegal, and I knew about it, I would say something, Rodriguez added.

Rodriguez also argued that Amador is hardly the perfect neighbor anyway. He provided The Daily Beast with a security camera video that he said showed Amador showing up to his home in the middle of the night, asking about the whereabouts of her cats. He also said Amador walks in the area at night with a flashlight looking for cats. (Amador told The Daily Beast that she was simply looking for her cat the night she knocked on Rodriguezs door, and that her neighbor yelled at her. She did confirm that she uses a flashlight at night to look for her cats because it is really dark.)

Control your cats and this all goes away, Rodriguez added. Instead, they are presenting him in a very bad light. What they are going to do is inciting violence against David.

The first sign of Lothian and Amador taking their fight public came in the form of a flyer. When Kiwi did not go home on April 23, the couple posted leaflets with Capozzis name. It advised that he makes stray cats and also cats [that] belong to surrounding neighbors disappear, according to a police report filed against Capozzi.

Please be careful with your family members, the flyers, which also called Capozzi an evil person, added in a bold font.

Julia Johnson, a teacher and owner of missing rescue cat Juan Pierre, told The Daily Beast that when she saw the flyers, her stomach dropped because she had been looking for her cat for weeks. Johnson has no proof that her cat ended up on Capozzi's property, but she said she is terrified about what could have happened to her cat after learning about other missing felines.

My cat wouldnt run away, she said. My family is heartbroken but even more than that, we are traumatized.

Jean Pierre Julia Johnson

Capozzi denied taking Johnsons cat and said that going missing is a common occurrence with outdoor cats.

Lothian said the push to get evidence is one reason he made a formal request for an investigation by Broward's Animal Care and Adoption Division in April. In an email to the agency, he said that he and other neighbors are willing to testify against Capozzi.

Animal Care field supervisor Philip Goen responded and said that one of Lothians neighbors submitted a similar complaint and that the agency was presently looking into the findings of Hollywood Police as well as Code for consideration in our investigation. But Goen added in the email that the agency cannot see any evidence of cat-napping other than [Capozzis] own self admission of intent.

A spokesperson for the Hollywood Police Department also told The Daily Beast that they have been looking into complaints about missing cats on North 30th Road. The investigation has not gotten very far, since there is no evidence and Capozzi recently removed his traps.

For his part, Capozzi said all he wants is for his neighbors to leave him alone and to stop the fabrications. There was a glimmer of hope this week, when Lothian and Amador put up a new flyer promising they will end it if Capozzi tells them where their two cats are.

Capozzi said in an email he responded to Lothian and Adamor in a written notewhich also was reviewed by The Daily Beastsaying that he rejects their offer because he believes theyre only trying to incite harm against him and his family. So the saga continues, to the dismay of at least one neighbor.

Honestly, we have bigger problems than these cats, Rodriguez said. This just needs to stop.

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St. Paul Police Dept. and Facebook

A Minnesota man has been charged with murdering and dismembering his girlfriend and leaving behind a mountain of evidenceincluding a Google search for the word jugular the day she disappeared.

And in a grim twist, police have learned that another woman tied to the suspect has been missing for two years. To put it bluntly, were concerned for her safety also, Saint Paul Police Sgt. Mike Ernster said at a press conference.

Joseph Jorgenson, 40, barricaded himself in his Maplewood bedroom and started a fire when police following the trail of clues left behind showed up at his apartment to search it last week, according to a criminal complaint. He allegedly tried to grab a SWAT officers AR-15 but was arrested.

Two days later, police discovered the chopped-up remains of Manjieh Mani Starren in coolers at a storage facility where a unit had been rented under the name of Jorgensons roommate, the complaint said.

Thank you to the officers for following every lead, Starrens brother wrote on Facebook after her body was found. My beautiful sister you will be missed greatly! Heaven has gotten a new Angel and we havent stopped looking and found you to bring you home!... Hope you are sitting with Grandpa fishing and watching dolphins up there fly high! I LOVE YOU!!

According to her family, the mother of three struggled with addiction and was supposed to enter treatment in April but never made it there. The last time anyone had contact with her was April 21 when she spoke by phone with the father of one of her children.

Her own father reported her missing on May 1, and soon after, police learned that she was allegedly the victim of domestic violence. Her sons father relayed to investigators that she said Jorgenson had once wrapped a rope around her neck, and a neighbor reported seeing her with a black eye and red marks on her neck.

The neighbor asked Starren if she wanted to call police, but the 33-year-old told her: It will just make things worse.

Investigators began collecting evidence that pointed to a grim outcome, starting with security video that showed Starren running from her apartment on April 21, and Jorgenson pulling her back in, police said.

She was never seen on video again. But Jorgenson was caught on camera coming in and out of the apartment 28 times in the following weekand once he was seen carrying a suitcase and duffle bags into his roommates pickup truck.

Inside Starrens apartment, police found a scene of chaos: a cracked TV and microwave; the sheet pulled off the bed with a large piece of a foam pad cut out; and blood on the couch, in the living room, and in the kitchen that would later be revealed as the victims.

The manager of the building where Jorgenson lived told police that residents had complained around May 15 or 16 of a stench from his apartment that smelled like something had died.

Shortly afterwards, the manager and maintenance employee saw Jorgenson carrying and dragging large black duffle bags out of the apartment. They commented to each other that it looked like Jorgenson was carrying a dead body, the complaint says.

Police would later find blood in a closet in the apartment, along with recent maggot activity, according to the complaint. They also found two padlock keys that matched the storage unit, where cellphone records show that Jorgenson had been on May 18.

In addition to the physical evidence, investigators found Jorgenson had repeatedly used Starrens food-stamps card, had purchased a large amount of cleaning supplies, and had made some unusual Google searches.

On April 21, he searched for Jugular.

On May 1, he searched: What do police do with a missing persons report.

On May 3, he Googled, How to clear cookies from android phone.

On May 27, he looked up: How to remove gps lime scooter.

On June 4, Jorgenson Googled, Lime for soil. The complaint noted that lime can be used to speed up the decomposition process of a body and to reduce the smell of decomposition.

Fanta Xayavong has been missing for two years. She was last seen with Joseph Jorgenson. St. Paul Police Dept.

Detectives said they also found two threatening messages Jorgenson sent to Starren two weeks before she vanished.

N u owe me 2 bc u called the cops on me 2 times. Very clear I was of that being punishable by hanging. Im giving u this plea bargain opportunity. So yw, one read. The other said: Hope u die of a kidney infection u bitch c*** terrible f***ing mother.

In the course of investigating the killing of Starren, police learned that another missing woman, Fanta Xayavong, 33, was last seen with Jorgenson before she disappeared in July 2021, according to KARE.

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Friends taught Moroccan Gnaoua artist Hind Ennaira to play the guembri, a three-stringed lute made of camel skin (FADEL SENNA)

Young Moroccan women are bringing new and inclusive energy to the centuries-old art of Gnaoua, a spiritual musical repertoire traditionally reserved for men.

Also known as "tagnaouite", it gained worldwide recognition after it was listed by UNESCO as intangible cultural heritage in 2019.

"Why shouldn't women be part of this dynamic?" asked Asma Hamzaoui at the Gnaoua World Music Festival in Essaouira, a southern coastal city steeped in the musical tradition.

The 26-year-old Casablanca native is one of the first women to perform Gnaoua, which blends African rhythms with spiritual chants and poetry.

Her father, a Gnaoua master, initiated her into the artform at a young age.

"I've accompanied him to his evening gatherings since I was seven years old," recounted the young woman, who in 2012 formed the group "Bnat Timbouktou", or The Girls of Timbuktu.

"I gradually learned to play the guembri, a three-stringed lute made of camel skin. My father made sure that I learned as much as possible before I flew solo."

The all-female ensemble wowed the festival-goers -- with Hamzaoui on vocals and the guembri, and four musicians on qraqeb steel castanets.

They played alongside the Amazones d'Afrique, another all-female group, from Mali.

- 'Feeds the spirit' -

"It's exceptional to have women playing Gnaoua music, which shouldn't be reserved for men," said Hamza Tahir, a member of the audience. "They bring fresh air into this music."

Inspired by Bnat Timbouktou's success, rising star Hind Ennaira developed her passion for tagnaouite in her hometown of Essaouira.

Its fortified citadel on the Atlantic coast is a breeding ground for the mystical musical tradition, in which religious hymns invoke ancestors and spirits.

Originally practised by enslaved people and dating back at least to the 16th century, Gnaoua has gone from being practised largely in private gatherings, where therapeutic rituals accompanied the music, to public events such as concerts and festivals.

"The city of Essaouira is the cradle of tagnaouite," said Ennaira, who was taught to play the guembri by friends. "It is beautiful heritage that feeds the spirit. It is important for young people to value it."

Ennaira put her own touch on the tradition by bringing in a guitarist and drummer to accompany the traditional ensemble.

"At first, there were some differences because they were not used to working with a woman," she said. "But after some challenging exercises, they adapted to me and we became complementary."

- 'Jimi Hendrix' style -

Yousra Mansour -- the front woman of the band Bab L'bluz ("The Blues Gate"), which fuses Gnaoua, rock and blues -- also encountered challenges entering the music scene.

"There were two constraints for me: first, the fact that this field is usually reserved for men, but also how we interpret traditional music," the musician told AFP.

"It is not very accepted or even tolerated by some of the stricter individuals.

"We replaced the bass with the guembri and the guitar with the awisha (a small guembri) and created a kind of 'power trio' in the style of Jimi Hendrix with reimagined traditional instruments," explained Mansour.

The 32-year-old vocalist passionately defends women's freedoms, saying that "as a woman, I have not had an easy life".

"There was a lack of women in this field. When I see Asma Hamzaoui or Hind Ennaira, they are magnificent," she said.

"It is not easy to evolve in a predominantly male universe, but we see changes emerging."

kao/agr/ezz/ysm/fz/smw
(CNN)  The cast of new comedy Joy Ride was in for a treat on Friday, when legendary comic and actor Amy Schumer surprised them during their press tour in Miami.

Schumer dropped in virtually to commend the Joy Ride cast  Oscar nominee Stephanie Hsu, Emily in Paris star Ashley Park, Sherry Cola, and Sabrina Wu  and share her love for their film, a raucous road trip comedy following four Asian American women who go on a life-changing odyssey in the Far East.

Hi, this is Amy Schumer from Ilovejoyride.com, Schumer joked while the cast stared at the screen with shocked looks.

The Trainwreck star went on to say that she loved the movie so much! The cast, everyone involved. I cannot tell you how much I loved this movie and how much I needed it.

It is my girl, friend, everyone comedy of the summer, Schumer added enthusiastically. You guys rock!

When the stunned cast asked Amy, is this real?! she replied, This is real, I wanna go on a trip with all of you! Please.

She added that while watching Joy Ride, I laughed, I cried, it was the ride of the summer and I love you all!

Joy Ride, directed by Adele Lim, co-screenwriter of Crazy Rich Asians, is set to hit theaters on July 7.

This story was first published on CNN.com, "Amy Schumer surprises cast of Joy Ride, praises their film as the comedy of the summer"
Police said Sunday a 'mass shooting incident' took place in Baltimore - REUTERS/Stringr

At least two people were killed and 28 wounded in a mass shooting early Sunday in the US city of Baltimore, police said.

Police received multiple calls about a shooting just after 12.30am Sunday (4.30am GMT) at a street party in the citys Brooklyn neighborhood in Maryland state, acting police commissioner Rich Worley said during a press conference.

Upon officers arrival we located multiple victims suffering from gunshot wounds, Mr Worley said.

One 18-year-old woman was found dead at the scene, with a 20-year-old male victim also confirmed to have been killed, a police statement said.

The wounded victims were being treated at area hospitals, he added, with three of them in critical condition.

A tow truck operator removes a vehicle with multiple bullet holes near the area of a mass shooting incident in the Southern District of Baltimore - AP Photo/Julio Cortez

Mr Worley said authorities were working to identify a suspect and determine a motive for the shooting.

This is an extensive crime scene, our detectives are going to be here quite a while, he said.

Brandon Scott, Baltimores mayor, speaking to reporters at the crime scene, condemned the shooting.

This is an absolute tragedy that did not have to happen, he said.

It again highlights the impacts and the need to deal with the over-proliferation of illegal guns on our streets and the ability for those who should not have them to get their hands on them, Mr Scott said.

We will not stop until we find those cowards who decided to just shoot dozens of people, causing two people to lose their lives, he said.

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CHICAGO  On NASCAR race day Saturday, Chicago native Aaron Moy stood alongside Clarence F. Buckingham Memorial Fountain decked out head-to-toe in NASCAR gear, complete with a checkered shirt and DuPont Motorsports hat with racing flags sticking out of it.

Unlike the race-goers surrounding him, the NASCAR lanyard that hangs from his neck doesnt boast a VIP pass or a staff badge  it displays a picture of his deceased mother.

She wouldve loved to see the race, Moy said, recalling his mothers excitement at seeing a NASCAR event won by four-time NASCAR Cup Series champion Jeff Gordon. One of the rare times of seeing my mother excited was seeing that, he recalled. Our mom got us into NASCAR, his sister, Amy Moy added.

The first day of the weekends events was greeted by 80-degree weather with light bursts of rain throughout the morning. The races 17-full time teams came to town just days after Chicago gained the worst air quality in the world, because of smoke from the Canadian wildfires.

While many online have expressed concerns over the potential effect of cars racing around downtown at top speeds on the citys air quality, many NASCAR attendees dont have significant concern. Chicagos a driving city. It is what it is, said Sam Balistrieri, a Milwaukee resident attending the NASCAR events for his 26th birthday. I dont think its gonna be a problem, echoed Cody Alguive of Hampton, Illinois, who drove three hours to attend the race.

A similar familial sentiment rings true for western suburbs resident, Bob Rath. Ive been a race fan all my life, he said, recalling the first-race he ever attended: The Time trials in Indianapolis 60 years ago. I used to live in Cincinnati, Indianapolis was just 90 miles from me, so my parents took us up, he said. Fast-forwarding to todays festivities, Rath expressed his excitement for the new street racing course. They like to beat and bang on one another on these road courses, so itll be fun to watch and see how they perform. Plus, its a historic event for Chicago, so its fun to be here and be a part of it.

The crowds arent only populated with die-hard NASCAR fans. In the free village event for those who dont have tickets to the weekends race, Chicago dad James Griffith browsed the booths, holding his 3-year-old son Jack, tightly in his arms. Im not big into NASCAR, Griffith said. Jack really likes cars, he added with a shrug.

Near the entrance, Toni Rossi welcomes race-goers to the design your own Hot Wheels car booth.

As an events-worker and actor, he has served at a variety of Chicago events, including last weekends pride festivities.

He recalled chatting with his fellow employees and expressing his excitement for events, such as NASCAR, providing so many different jobs to Chicago communities. He said that these large-scale festivities provide incentive for Chicagoans to explore new interests, saying, I dont think I would have come down and checked it out if I wasnt working.

Staley, the Chicago Bears mascot, waved to passersby as other Chicago mascots wandered among the crowd.

The never-seen-before nature of todays event appears to be on the front of racers minds.

The first time I saw the track in person, in real life was yesterday, said Josh Bilicki, the driver for Live Fast Motorsports.

Normally you have a lot of run-off area, like sand and gravel here theres just walls. So, you make a mistake, youre gonna be in the wall and probably end your day, he said. Maybe instead of driving at 100%, you drive it at 90% and try to survive the race because some people are gonna push too hard and go off.
Australia's controversial detention centre on Nauru is empty, after the last remaining refugee was evacuated into the night last week.

It pauses over a decade of Australia's processing of asylum seekers on the tiny Pacific nation, with 4,183 people held there since 2012.

Described as a place of "indefinite despair" and "sustained abuse" by visitors from Medecins Sans Frontieres and Human Rights Watch, the Nauru centre is a thorn in the side of Australia's human rights record.

Yet offshore processing - which involves detaining people in the Pacific while they await resettlement in a third country - remains one of Australia's most enduring policies.

Seven consecutive prime ministers have argued for its role in protecting the nation's borders and "breaking the business model" of human traffickers.

Despite the facility sitting vacant, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese's government will spend vast sums of money - including A$486m (255m; $320m) this year - to keep Nauru open as a deterrent.

Life in 'limbo'

Maria knows what it feels like to be airlifted off Nauru at short notice. She was evacuated to Sydney in 2014 due to a severe kidney issue, after being detained on the island for over a year.

A survivor of female genital mutilation from Somalia, Maria escaped civil war before making a weeks-long journey by plane, and then boat, to Australia.

"Just promise me: don't die," her younger brother had pleaded as she left the family home for the last time.

"That broke me because we have lots of neighbours and cousins who have died in the Mediterranean," says Maria, who does not want to give her surname.

Her time at sea felt "never ending", Maria tells the BBC. The boat was tiny "like a kayak" and its dozens of passengers had no toilet. "I was hallucinating because I was so sick. I kept thinking about my brother. And how I didn't want to lie to him."

Eventually they were picked up by the Australian Navy - and ultimately transferred to Nauru.

Maria's memories of the island are vivid and intense. She describes having cut up and burnt feet after walking on sharp stones without shoes in searing heat. The humidity left her tent covered in "green and black mould which grew on everything", she adds.

She learnt to move in groups and ignore public sexual propositions from men within the camp. "Dehumanising" treatment, such as being watched in the shower or rationed out sanitary pads by guards, became the norm, Maria says.

"There were a lot of inappropriate relationships between the guards and the girls. You're a refugee, but they looked at you like you were in a prison."

After leaving Nauru, Maria was detained in Sydney, before finally being released on a bridging visa. She now runs a business in Brisbane, where she lives with her Australian husband and two children.

But her visa requires renewal every six months and she lives in terror of being taken away from her family and placed back in detention. "It's limbo. I don't know what's going to happen tomorrow."

A quiet pivot

Countless refugees have shared stories of suffering like Maria's since offshore processing began in 2001.

It was introduced by a conservative prime minister, John Howard. When he left office in 2007, the policy was suspended by Kevin Rudd's Labor government, before being resumed - also under Labor - in 2012, initially as a stop-gap measure following a spike in boat crossings.

Successive politicians defended the policy as key to protecting Australia's borders and saving lives at sea.

But researchers have argued it did little to curb either maritime arrivals or deaths. Both dropped from 2014 onwards, when the government quietly shifted to boat "turnbacks" - an approach that removes migrant vessels from Australian waters and sends those on board back to their countries of departure.

All new arrivals to the offshore detention centres on Nauru and Manus Island in Papua New Guinea (PNG) ceased after that pivot.

And since then, "Australia has spent considerable effort and money trying unsuccessfully to extract itself from its arrangements in Nauru and PNG," a 2021 review of offshore detention from the Kaldor Centre for International Refugee Law found.

Mounting health crises and suicidal behaviour among child detainees prompted Australia to evacuate people from the islands under a special legislative scheme.

As a result, everyone has been taken off Nauru, but 80 people formerly detained by the government remain "trapped" in PNG, according to the Human Rights Law Centre.

Over the past decade, every expert UN body tasked with reviewing offshore processing has expressed concerns about the policy. Fourteen people have died in detention, about half through suicide.

In 2020, the International Criminal Court (ICC) called Australia's policies unlawful and degrading but said they did not warrant prosecution.

Despite quietly shifting away from offshore processing, Australia recently signed a A$422m contract with a US prison company to oversee Nauru until at least 2025.

"The enduring capability ensures regional processing arrangements remain ready to receive and process any new unauthorised maritime arrivals, future-proofing Australia's response to maritime people smuggling," a spokesperson for the Department of Home Affairs said.

Mr Albanese has not commented on the last detainee leaving Nauru. His government has described its asylum seekers policies as "tough on borders, not weak on humanity".

Asylum seekers on Nauru in 2003

Critics argue offshore processing will remain a costly bipartisan policy on paper as long as "refugees are being used to try and win votes".

"People seeking asylum by sea have been weaponised and politicised over decades in Australia," says Jana Favero, director of advocacy at the Asylum Seeker Resource Centre.

But Ms Favero and other critics believe public sentiment towards "deterrence-based" border control is shifting. She celebrates the last evacuation from Nauru as a "long overdue move for refugees" borne out of "tireless advocacy".

"What we saw at the last election was a rejection of fear-based politics," she says.

Polling seems to capture some shift in attitudes towards immigration. In 2017, when asked whether refugees in Nauru and PNG should be allowed to settle in Australia, 45% agreed while 48% said no, according to the Lowy Institute think tank. This year, its polling found 68% agreed that "openness to people from all over the world is essential to who we are as a nation", a 15-point increase from 2018.

Maria, who has found herself caught in the crosshairs of the government's policy, says life for now is about co-existing with uncertainty - because so little has changed over time.

"It's been 10 years already at this point, I feel like I'm used to it," she explains.

"I live my life as much as I can... but there are some days when I'm overwhelmed, and I think why me?"
Nearly 800 Russian soldiers killed and 100 pieces of Russian equipment destroyed on 1 July  General Staff

The Armed Forces of Ukraine killed 790 Russian soldiers and destroyed 26 artillery systems and 20 armoured vehicles on 1 July.

Source: General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine on Facebook

Details: The total combat losses of the Russian forces from 24 February 2022 to 2 July 2023 are estimated to be as follows [figures in parentheses represent the latest losses  ed.]:

approximately 229,660 (+790) military personnel;

4,052 (+10) tanks;

7,888 (+20) armoured combat vehicles;

4,188 (+26) artillery systems;

637 (+5) multiple-launch rocket systems;

390 (+1) air defence systems;

315 (+0) fixed-wing aircraft;

308 (+0) helicopters;

3,557 (+12) tactical UAVs;

1,261 (+0) cruise missiles;

18 (+0) ships/boats;

6,816 (+22) vehicles and tankers;

583 (+3) special vehicles.

The data is being confirmed.

Journalists fight on their own frontline. Support Ukrainska Pravda or become our patron!
Neglected elephant touches down in Thai homeland after flight

A Thai keeper feeds elephant Muthu Raja in an enclosure at Dehiwala Zoo in Colombo on June 30, 2023 (Ishara S. KODIKARA)

A Thai elephant gifted to Sri Lanka two decades ago arrived back in its birth country Sunday, following a diplomatic spat over the animal's alleged mistreatment.

Thai authorities had gifted the 29-year-old Muthu Raja -- also known back in its birthplace as Sak Surin -- to Sri Lanka in 2001.

But they demanded the elephant back last year after allegations that it was tortured and neglected while kept at a Buddhist temple.

The 4,000-kilogram (8,800-pound) mammal arrived in Thailand just after 2 pm (0800 GMT), having been transported inside a specially constructed giant steel crate onboard an Ilyushin Il-76 cargo plane.

"He arrived in Chiang Mai perfectly," Thai environment minister Varawut Silpa-archa said at the airport.

"He travelled five hours and nothing is wrong, his condition is normal."

"If everything goes well, we will move him," he added, referring to plans to quarantine the elephant at a nearby nature reserve.

Varawut helped give the elephant a drink after Muthu Raja's decorated crate was removed from the plane, with the thirsty animal eagerly reaching his trunk through a hole to accept the water.

The elephant could be seen when officials briefly opened the crate's rear doors and it was sprayed.

Muthu Raja was moved from its temporary home at a zoo in Sri Lanka's capital Colombo before dawn, accompanied by four Thai handlers and a Sri Lankan keeper, with two CCTV cameras monitoring its health in transit.

It left Colombo at 7:40 am (0210 GMT) on a commercial reparation flight that Thai officials said cost $700,000.

Muthu Raja was in pain and covered in abscesses when it was rescued from the Buddhist temple last year, the zoo's chief veterinarian, Madusha Perera, told AFP.

Animal welfare groups said the elephant had been forced to work with a logging crew and that its wounds, some allegedly inflicted by its handler, had been neglected.

The elephant will undergo hydrotherapy in Thailand to treat a remaining injury on its front left leg, Perera said.

- Return opposed -

Elephants are considered sacred in Sri Lanka and are protected by law.

The organisation Rally for Animal Rights and Environment (RARE), which led a campaign to rescue Muthu Raja from the temple, expressed its unhappiness over the animal's departure.

RARE organised a Buddhist blessing for the elephant on Friday ahead of its journey and has petitioned authorities to prosecute those it says are responsible for neglecting the animal.

Sri Lanka's wildlife minister Pavithra Wanniarachchi said Thailand was "adamant" in its demands for the elephant's return.

Prime Minister Dinesh Gunawardena told parliament in June he had personally conveyed Sri Lanka's regrets to the Thai king over the elephant's condition.

Thailand has stopped sending elephants abroad, Thai environment minister Varawut said, adding that Bangkok's diplomatic missions are checking the conditions of elephants already sent overseas.

aj/gle/sco/mtp/tp-rbu/pbt
Nestle is based in the western Swiss town of Vevey (Fabrice COFFRINI)

Nestle is stepping up its project to combat deforestation in Ivory Coast caused by the growth of cocoa farming, bringing cocoa trading companies directly on board.

Ivory Coast is the world's largest cocoa producer, at 40 percent of the global market.

The west African country had 16 million hectares of forest in the 1960s -- a figure which is now down to less than three million, mainly due to cocoa plantations.

Nestle, the Swiss food giant behind chocolate brands like KitKat and Smarties, launched a project in 2020 aimed at restoring and protecting the Cavally Forest in southwest Ivory Coast.

One of the last remaining dense forests in the country, Cavally is a biodiversity reserve covering more than 67,000 hectares, but is threatened by deforestation linked to the cocoa industry and illegal gold panning.

The Nestle project was a partnership with the Ivorian government and the Earthworm Foundation, an NGO that led the project's implementation.

At a media briefing this week at its headquarters in Vevey on Lake Geneva, Nestle said the first phase had led to "a significant reduction in deforestation", with the natural regeneration of 7,000 hectares and the reforestation of almost 1,500 hectares.

- Plenty at stake -

For its second three-year phase, the Swiss trading company Cocoasource and the French firm Touton, which work directly with cocoa and rubber cooperatives in the area affected, have been brought on board.

The project has a budget of four million Swiss francs ($4.45 million).

It aims to strengthen the resilience of the communities on the edge of the forest, and improve the transparency and traceability of the cocoa and rubber supply chain.

Touton, which specialises in trading cocoa, coffee, vanilla and spices, wanted to join the project "because the first phase worked", deputy managing director Joseph Larrose told AFP.

"Collective effort makes it possible to protect the forest."

Restoring the Cavally Forest is in the cocoa industry's interests, he said.

"The very heart of our business is at stake. If tomorrow we no longer have an ecosystem favourable to the raw material we're trading, we no longer have access to this resource."

Julian Oram, the senior director for Africa at the NGO Mighty Earth, said the Nestle initiative was a valuable way of addressing deforestation.

However, "it's important that companies such as Nestle don't use agroforestry... as a way of avoiding changes to their core business practices: which is how they buy cocoa, including the prices they offer", he told AFP.

"Sustainability programmes are no substitute for fair cocoa purchasing practices."

- 'Imported deforestation' -

Global conservationist group WWF is a sharp critic of what it calls "imported deforestation".

It says that Swiss consumption of eight major raw materials -- including cocoa, coconuts, coffee and palm oil -- occupies more than twice the area of Switzerland's own forests.

The NGO says 54 percent of Switzerland's cocoa imports come from countries where the risk of deforestation is either high or very high.

In mid-April, the European Parliament adopted a regulation banning the import of products such as cocoa, coffee, palm oil or rubber if they came from land deforested after December 2020.

The objective is to curb deforestation outside the European Union, with the EU, according to the WWF, the second-biggest destroyer of tropical forests, after China. The NGO says the EU is responsible for 16 percent of global deforestation.

- Swiss ministry signs up -

Besides commodity traders, the Swiss economy ministry has joined the Cavally project.

Monica Rubiolo, head of trade promotion at the ministry, told the media briefing that Switzerland wanted to contribute to improving supply chains as the wealthy Alpine nation is "an important country" for trading and processing cocoa.

Nestle achieved a turnover of 8.1 billion Swiss francs in confectionery alone in 2022.

Switzerland has yet to follow its EU neighbours in terms of its legislation, lamented Romain Deveze, raw materials expert for the Swiss WWF.

"It would be good if we didn't have to wait 10 years for Switzerland to align itself with European regulations," he told AFP.

noo/rjm/gw/lth/smw
Never apologize: How Moms for Liberty teaches its members to spin the media

PHILADELPHIA  Last week, a local Indiana chapter of Moms for Liberty attracted attention for quoting Adolf Hitler in its newsletter. After the local paper reported the story, the group added additional context but kept the quote. Eventually, after it faced even more scrutiny, the organization removed the quote and apologized in a statement posted to its Facebook group.

That, however, was a big mistake, according to advice at the Moms for Liberty national conferences media training session Friday.

Never apologize. Ever, said Christian Ziegler, the chairman of the Florida Republican Party. This is my view. Other people have different views on this. I think apologizing makes you weak.

He advised the attendees to instead make it clear that the Hitler comment was vile but to immediately pivot to make the point that Hitler indoctrinated children in schools and that thats what Moms for Liberty was fighting against. Ziegler warned that any apology would become the headline, so that should be avoided.

UNITED STATES - NOVEMBER 2: Christian Ziegler attends a rally at the Hillsborough County Republican Party office in Tampa on November 2, 2018. (Tom Williams / CQ Roll Call via AP file)

Moms for Liberty, which says it is nonpartisan, has grown into a conservative powerhouse, boasting 120,000 members in 285 chapters across 44 states. The group started in Brevard County, Florida, in 2021, initially to fight Covid restrictions and mask mandates.

It has morphed into a sprawling organization that aims to fight for what it sees as parental rights but that critics, including the left-leaning Southern Poverty Law Center, label anti-government extremism. Its members have removed books they deem inappropriate from public school libraries and have pushed to end what they see as the indoctrination of children on such topics as race, gender and sexuality.

The group is holding its second annual national conference here this week, drawing the five GOP presidential candidates, including former President Donald Trump and Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis.

Ziegler conducted his training during a breakout session, giving more than 100 attendees a lesson in how to deal with the media as the activists attract more attention and scrutiny.

He is the husband of Bridget Ziegler, one of the co-founders of Moms for Liberty, who later left the organization in an official capacity and was appointed by DeSantis to his Disney oversight board this spring. She introduced her husband at the session.

In a follow-up conversation Saturday, Ziegler called it a very 101 presentation in which he was just giving some ideas.

The sessions are normally closed to the media, but Moms for Liberty co-founder Tiffany Justice invited NBC News to attend. A spokesperson for the organization later disputed the invitation, and Ziegler said he believed the session was closed to the media. An NBC News reporter offered proper identification to two staff members working the session and presented media credentials at the door.

In a written statement, co-founders Justice and Tina Descovich said: We hosted more than 100 members of the media at our national summit in Philadelphia  including NBC. The brokenness of our K-12 public education system in America cannot be hidden, and that is why we are proud that so many of our members are brave enough to do interviews with reporters  even when they are not fair or kind.

The session gave a glimpse into how these parents  many of them newly engaged activists  are trying to shape the media narrative as they become more powerful within the Republican Party and the candidates court their favor ahead of the 2024 elections.

Zieglers main message was clear: The media is not your friend.

If you give [the media] the least amount possible, youre fully controlling the message, he said. The more you give them, the less you control. The less you give them, the more you control.

Attendees asked Ziegler how to persuade reporters to go to their events and how to get positive messages out. Zieglers presentation emphasized the importance of being on the offensive and not letting your guard down.

Theyre lazy, Ziegler said of reporters. They have no idea whats going on at school board meetings. Oftentimes they dont even know how local government works.

He also told attendees to give priority to local news interviews instead of going to national media.

Thats where you reach the undecideds, he said, adding that people who watch Fox News or MSNBC probably know how theyre going to vote but that consumers of local news may not.

Moms for Liberty co-founder Tiffany Justice speaks at their meeting, in Philadelphia, Friday, June 30, 2023. (Matt Rourke / AP)

Ziegler told attendees to look for opportunities to rattle their opponents, and he shared as an example a tactic to mess with a political opponents head. It involved printing out a direct mail piece that goes to 50 of the opponents friends and neighbors  but that the person will believe went to the whole town.

Theyre totally paranoid, Ziegler said. And theyve burned three days of productivity because theyre spending time worrying about a mailer that went out to only a few dozen people.

In an interview later, Ziegler described the mailer discussion as an off-the-cuff example for campaigns that has nothing to do with the media training.

Attendees took notes and several photos of the accompanying PowerPoint presentation, titled (wo)manhandling the media. Other breakout sessions included presentations titled Comprehensive Sex Education: Sex Ed or Sexualization and Dream Team: Winning Campaigns Have Winning Teams  Whats Your Role?

Co-founders Justice and Descovich expressed sympathy for members of some of their chapters who have had unflattering media coverage and been accused of harassing teachers or school board members.

In an interview, Descovich said she believes its the organizations role to help [moms] to learn and grow and to be effective advocates as Moms for Liberty continues to grow.

They havent had media training, Descovich said. The pressure theyre under just stepping up to speak for their kids is a mess.

This article was originally published on NBCNews.com
LIVINGSTON COUNTY  Several businesses in Livingston County are on the market, according to local real estate listings. Among them are restaurants, an ice cream parlor, and a small-town grocery store.

Some of the listings fail to identify the business in question, as owners often prefer to inform employees and the public after a buyer has been found.

Several businesses in Livingston County are on the market, according to local real estate listings. Among them are restaurants, an ice cream parlor, and a small-town grocery store.

Still, we've compiled a list of some of the listings we found most interesting:

Fondness in Pinckney

102 S. Howell St. in Pinckney

Listed for $750,000

Asian fusion restaurant Fondness, which closed until further notice in early June, has been listed for sale.

The listing price includes the business' equipment, furniture, fixtures, contents, real estate and liquor license. The listing says the recently renovated restaurant offers improvements, like a sushi bar, a new walk-in freezer and refrigerator, new kitchen equipment, an updated office area and emergency lighting.

The owners, Joy Qiao and Danny Szeto, also run Dragon Court in neighboring Hamburg Township.

Gregory Market in Unadilla Township

153 Main St. in Unadilla Township

Listed for $949,000

"Well established for over 22 years, money-making and local favorite mini supermarket situated in the heart of (the) township," a listing on LoopNet reads. "Minimal competition. Owners want to retire due to health issues."

According to the listing, store sales are around $1.2 million per year, and the lotto commission was more than $25,000 last year.

Be My Guest Cafe in Fowlerville

10691 W. Grand River Ave. in Fowlerville

Listed for $175,000

"Wonderful business opportunity," a listing on LoopNet reads. "Fully functioning and already established restaurant (with equipment) for sale. High traffic location on Grand River between Fowlerville and Webberville. Owned by present owners since 2005 with a seating capacity of 85, plus a private meeting room. Well established regular customers."

The owner will lease the 2,939-square-foot building for $2,200 a month and negotiate the length of the lease, according to the listing. Potential buyers can inquire about purchasing the building, as well.

Lites Plus in Fowlerville

590 W. Grand River Ave. in Fowlerville

Listed for $399,000

"Located in the Village of Fowlerville with easy access to I-96 and M-52, building boasts just over 3,000 square feet of freshly remodeled space with small warehouse area and storefront," a listing on BizBuySell reads. "Sale to include all inventory, customer list and building.

"Business is currently enrolled in the DTE Small Business Program, being their preferred lighting provider for Livingston County's commercial and industrial customers, as well as trade allies with utility incentive programs, namely Consumers Energy, Lansing Board of Water and Light, and the City of Portland."

'Profitable Carry-Out Chicken and Ribs Restaurant'

Location Unknown

Listed for $110,000

"Steady growth since established over 10 years ago," a listing on BizBuySell reads. "If you're looking for a business with a great reputation and growth potential (business has grown primarily by word of mouth), this could be the right fit. All equipment is in excellent shape and very well maintained, nothing needs (to be) replaced. Owner operator that will train and consider part-time position after the sale."

The listing states the reason for the sale is a retirement.

'Unique and Charming Gift Store'

Location Unknown

Listed for $829,999

"This store is in a quaint downtown and carries many unique Michigan-made products," a listing on BizBuySell reads. "They include apparel, wine, Michigan-made snacks, treats, exclusive Michigan signs, and gift baskets. They serve fresh U.P. pasties in their store daily with seven flavors. They have an excellent customer base, as indicated by their online reviews."

The listing states the owner is planning on retiring.

'Liquor Store With Great Sales'

Location Unknown

Listed for $449,999

"This liquor store is located on a main roadway with great visibility," a listing on BizBuySell reads. "It's been under the same ownership for over 26 years and has a loyal customer base. Gross sales for 2021 were $1,111,385 per 2021 tax returns provided by the seller. There's potential to grow sales with some creative marketing."

The listing states the seller is ready to retire after more than 40 years in the industry.

Among the businesses listed for sale in Livingston County is an ice cream shop.

'Family-Style Restaurant: Great Opportunity for Working Owner'

Location Unknown

Listed for $575,000

"Great opportunity to own a very profitable family-style restaurant," a listing on BizBuySell reads. "Owners take pride in this very clean and organized restaurant that can seat up to 120 customers. Well known for their friendly staff and serving excellent food. No need for any new equipment or upgrades; remodeled in the last two years. Great reputation with steady customers.

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"Could extend hours and serve dinners to increase gross sales. ... Located on (a) busy road in (a) popular strip mall, with many new subdivisions being built in the area."

'Seventeen-Year-Old Dessert and Ice Cream Shop'

Location Unknown

Listed for $69,000

"Since 2006, this ice cream, custard, and cake shop prides itself with a stellar reputation for providing top-of-the-line desserts for all of its customers," a listing on BizBuySell reads. "This business (was) started by the current owner over 17 years ago and has grown exponentially since."

The listing states the current owner is approaching retirement.

 Contact reporter Jennifer Eberbach at jeberbach@livingstondaily.com.

This article originally appeared on Livingston Daily: Nine restaurants, retailers for sale in Livingston County
No, you can't shoot July 4th fireworks in Pensacola or Escambia County. Here's why

Independence Day is right around the corner, and many people are stocking up on fireworks around the county to prepare for big family get-togethers to showoff their at-home fireworks show on the Fourth of July.

But, even though a 2020 Florida amendment designates Independence Day as a "firework holiday," you may be stuck with a civil fine if you celebrate with the fun little explosives due to city of Pensacola and Escambia County ordinances grandfathered in prior to the new legislation.

Here's everything you need to know about launching fireworks in Pensacola and Escambia County.

Ready for a spectacle?: Downtown Pensacola's July 4 fireworks to be 'largest fireworks show ever held over the Bay'

July 4 gas prices: Florida gas prices are down ahead of July 4. Here's where you can find the lowest

How does Florida define fireworks?

According to Florida law, fireworks are any combustible or explosive composition or substance or combination of substances  prepared for the purpose of producing a visible or audible effect by combustion, explosion, deflagration, or detonation.

Basically, that includes anything that flies, visibly explodes and/or audibly goes boom with the notable exception of sparklers, cap guns, smoke bombs, cigarette loads, party poppers and snappers, which were already legal to use in Florida.

Are fireworks legal in Florida?

Sometimes. Noisy or projectile fireworks are illegal in Florida, but a 2020 Florida law established three fireworks holidays when they are allowed: New Years Eve, New Years Day and Independence Day.

Floridians are also permitted to purchase and set off fireworks provided they are used "solely and exclusively in frightening birds from agricultural works and fish hatcheries." That's why when Floridians go to fireworks tents all year long they must sign waivers affirming that they're only buying a cartload of "Excalibur Platinum Artillery Shells" to scare away crows or something similar.

Can I set off fireworks in the City of Pensacola?

Short answer  no. If you live within the city limits, it is unlawful to discharge fireworks.

Even though Florida Statutes permit firework use on the three "firework holidays," it also grandfathered in existing local laws and ordinances such as the city's ordinances.

"It shall be unlawful for any person to discharge or explode in or upon any street, public way or park within the city, or upon any private premises within the city, any fireworks ... unless the discharging or exploding be performed under the direction, supervision and control of the city and a permit has been issued by the city" city ordinance states.

Pensacola's city ordinances allow the use of sparklers within the city limits.

Pensacola Fourth of July events: Where to watch fireworks, run a 5K or enjoy a barbecue

Can I set off fireworks in Escambia County?

If you live outside of the City of Pensacola, launching fireworks gets a little murky.

In the eyes of Florida law, launching fireworks is not a crime, but Escambia County has instituted an ordinance that prohibits the launch of fireworks within the county even during the "firework holiday."

"The use or explosion of fireworks ... is hereby prohibited within Escambia County," according to Sec. 50-1(d)(1) of county ordinances. "The Escambia County Sheriff's Department, county code enforcement officers, City of Pensacola Police Officers, and other state law enforcement officers, shall in conjunction with their official duties imposed by state law or local ordinance, enforce the provisions of this section."

Escambia County ordinances allow the use of sparklers.

What are the penalties for launching fireworks in Pensacola and Escambia County?

Pensacola's city ordinances state any violation may result in a fine not to exceed $500, a term of imprisonment not exceeding 60 days or both. However, Pensacola Police Department spokesperson Officer Mike Wood told the News Journal the department's "rule of thumb is to confiscate fireworks, and that's about as far as we take it."

Wood said if someone reports the launching of fireworks, officers will ask the individuals to stop. If they refuse, then Wood says that's when fireworks will be confiscated.

According to Escambia's ordinances, people who launch fireworks within the county can receive civil citations. Here are the fines:

First citation: $50

Second citation: $100

Third citation: $200

Fourth citation and all additional citations: $400

Serious or irreversible threat citation: $400

If you contest an Escambia County citation and are still found guilty, the civil fines are as follows:

First citation: $100

Second citation: $200

Third citation: $300

Fourth citation and all additional citations: $500

Serious or irreversible threat citation: $500

The Escambia County Sheriff's Office told the News Journal it recommends all citizens abide by county ordinances.

How late at night can I set off fireworks?

Let's say you decide to launch fireworks despite local ordinances. Your neighbors may be fine with the noise unless it keeps them up at night, especially since the day after Independence Day is a work day.

The city of Pensacola has a noise ordinance that takes effect each day at 11 p.m. and lasts until 7 a.m. During these times, any loud or "raucous noise" that "annoys, disturbs, injures or endangers the comfort, repose, health, peace or safety of reasonable persons of ordinary sensibilities within the limits of the city" is prohibited.

Escambia County's noise ordinance begins at 10 p.m. each day and lasts until 7 a.m. on weekdays and 10 a.m. on weekends. This ordinance prohibits loud noises that include but are not limited to noise emanating from loudspeakers or amplifiers, yelling and shouting or animals and birds.

Penalties for violating the city or county's noise ordinances are the same as launching fireworks.

The Palm Beach Post contributed to this report.

This article originally appeared on Pensacola News Journal: Pensacola, Escambia County ordinances prevent shooting fireworks
According to Denys Kazansky, after Yevgeny Prigozhin's mutiny, the status quo between the two factions surrounded by Vladimir Putin was restored

No one lost during the Wagner PMC mutiny led by Yevgeny Prigozhin, and the conflict between the two large power blocs around Russian dictator Vladimir Putin will continue, Ukrainian journalist and blogger Denis Kazanskyi said in an interview with Radio NV on June 30.

Read also: What happened between Putin and Prigozhin

He pointed out that Prigozhin is still at large after the mutiny, despite having killed a number of Russian servicemen, including highly-trained helicopter pilots.

"Yesterday it was reported that he was walking freely in St. Petersburg," Kazanskyi said.

The journalist stated that it is unclear what the Wagner PMC leader will do next.

"In fact, there was an attempted coup, two large groups that are in Putin's entourage clashed, and no one lost," Kazanskyi believes.

Read also: Prigozhin may have been offered dismissal of Shoigu and Gerasimov, says SBU

That is, the status quo has actually returned. Both the former and the latter remained at large, and no one was killed or imprisoned. There will probably be a continuation. It cannot just end in nothing.

Prigozhin announced the beginning of an armed conflict with the Russian Defense Ministry on the evening of June 23, claiming that he wanted to restore justice in Russia.

He said that the Russian army struck the mercenaries rear camp. However, the conflict between Prigozhin and Shoigu had started months earlier.

For the past few months, the Wagner leader has been persistently demanding the resignation of the Russian defense minister, accusing him of poor management of the Russian armed forces and of not supplying enough ammunition to Wagner forces.

The next day, Wagner forces seized control over the main military facilities in the cities of Rostov-on-Don and Voronezh. They also shot down seven Russian Air Force aircraft.

Read also: Wagner destroyed seven Russian aircraft during Prigozhin's rebellion  Air Force

Prigozhin then demanded meetings with Russias top military leadership and threatened to advance towards Moscow in a video address shot in Rostov-on-Don.

Putin, in turn, posted a video address saying that the Russian Armed Forces had ordered to eliminate those who led the rebellion.

The Wagner convoys nevertheless moved towards Moscow in a march for justice, as Prigozhin called it.

The FSB charged Prigozhin with inciting insurrection, while security forces prepared to defend Moscow. Putin is believed to have fled the capital to his residence in Valdai, northwest of Moscow.

Read also: Prigozhin's rebellion could have split Russia into two, Ukraines spy chief says

Belarusian dictator Alexander Lukashenko held talks with Prigozhin as his mercenaries closed in on Moscow, Lukashenkos press office stated, culminating in a deal where Prigozhin agreed to halt his forces advance on the Russian capital  in exchange for dropping charges and changes at the Russian Ministry of Defense.

Soon after, Prigozhin ordered Wagner mercenaries to turn back from Moscow and return to their combat positions.

On June 27, Lukashenko confirmed that Prigozhin was already in Belarus.

On June 29, the Russian news outlet Fontanka reported that Prigozhin may be in St. Petersburg, claiming that a person resembling the Wagner leader was seen wearing a medical mask at the helipad on the English Embankment in St. Petersburg. This person then flew away in a helicopter belonging to a company associated with Prigozhin.

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Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, July 1)  The country's foreign policy had seen an apparent reset during President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.s first year in power, as he strengthened Philippine-US ties which his predecessor had weakened.

Whereas the pro-Beijing former President Rodrigo Duterte said it was time to say goodbye to Washington a mere months into assuming office, Marcos said it is only natural for the Philippines to look to the US  its long-standing defense ally  in the face of growing tensions in the disputed areas in the South China Sea and the Indo-Pacific region.

In a highly contentious move, the president also granted America wider access to Philippine military bases earlier this year, against the backdrop of US' deepening geopolitical conflict with Beijing.

Despite such recalibrations, the president had stressed that his administration is not siding with either of the two rival powers.

In a speech in January, Marcos maintained that his foreign policy is only guided by national interest. In his own words: I dont work for Beijing, I dont work for Washington, D.C. I work for the Philippines.

According to political analyst Dennis Coronacion, this attempt at neutrality and balance could be Marcos bid to make up for what the previous president had lost during his administration.

Observers noted that while moving away from the US, Duterte adopted an appeasement policy with Beijing to boost investment and trade opportunities despite Chinese incursions in the West Philippine Sea (WPS). By the end of his administration, however, the economic rewards reaped by Manila were ultimately underwhelming, they said.

Rekindling, expanding alliances

The similarities between Marcos and Dutertes foreign policy were seen shortly after his election victory, as he called Beijing the strongest partner of Manila and declared his intention to bring Philippine-China relations to a higher gear.

However, Marcos distinguished himself from his predecessor by also reviving the countrys defense alliance with the US while maintaining close economic ties with China.

There were already indications in the final year of Dutertes term that Manila was again gradually bolstering cooperation with Washington after what was largely seen as a failed economic strategy of currying favor with China. But this revival of the alliance with the US became more pronounced when Marcos assumed office.

In Marcos first year, the two nations staged their largest-ever joint military exercises, the US pledged to help modernize the Philippine armed forces, and US President Joe Biden said he cant think of any better partner to have than his Philippine counterpart.

But perhaps most striking was Marcos decision to expand the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA), effectively helping the US scale up its military footprint in the country.

The agreement saw the identification of four more EDCA sites in the country, in addition to five existing ones, that could temporarily host US military logistics and personnel on a rotational basis.

Defense analysts see the move as part of efforts to deter Beijings expansionist claims in the South China Sea, as well as its actions against self-governing Taiwan, which China claims as its territory. China condemned the EDCA expansion and warned that this will seriously endanger regional peace and stability and drag the Philippines into the abyss of geopolitical strife.

The Marcos administration, however, stated that strengthening US military presence in the country is just meant to boost the Philippines own defense capabilities, relief operations, and disaster response.

Should there be such an attempt to use the EDCA sites for offensive action, then that would be outside the parameters of what we have discussed and what the EDCA sites are for, Marcos had said. But to be fair, the United States has never brought up the possibility that the United States will use the EDCA sites as staging areas for any offensive action.

Meanwhile, the Marcos administration has also been trying to boost security ties with like-minded nations in the Indo-Pacific region, including Japan and Australia.

For international studies professor Renato de Castro, the Philippines needs to do this since it does not yet have the military capability to confront China.

So, we have to leverage on our treaty alliance with the United States and, of course, our security partnerships with like-minded countries, De Castro told a forum.

Alliance provides you deterrence. It would basically force China to think twice or thrice to use force against the Philippine Coast Guard, against the Philippine Navy, and the Philippine Air Force, he said.

Weighty promises

Since winning the polls, Marcos has made pronouncements that raised expectations for a more hardline approach towards hostile behavior by China in the WPS, something critics said his predecessor failed to do.

In his maiden State of the Nation Address, the countrys chief diplomat vowed not to abandon even one square inch of Philippine territory to any foreign power. Before that, Marcos committed to talk to China consistently with a firm voice regarding the WPS dispute, and to assert the 2016 landmark Hague ruling which recognized the Philippines' sovereign rights to areas within its exclusive economic zone (EEZ).

His word was put to the test when in February a Chinese Coast Guard vessel aimed a military-grade laser at a Philippine Coast Guard ship, temporarily blinding crew members. The incident happened near Ayungin Shoal, which is part of the Philippines EEZ.

This prompted the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) to file a diplomatic protest, while the president summoned Chinese Ambassador Huang Xilian to Malacanang to express his serious concern over the increasing frequency and intensity of actions by China against the Philippines.

READ: DFA: Chinese harassment in West PH Sea a daily occurrence

Despite recognizing the aggressive actions by the Chinese, however, Marcos has made clear that he shares Beijings view that the territorial dispute is not the sum of the two countries relations. He maintained warm relations with the Asian power, which his administration continues to see as an important ingredient in the countrys post-pandemic economic recovery.

This did not sit well with critics, including progressive groups which slammed Marcos willingness to resume negotiations with China on joint oil and gas exploration in the area. It is enraging, fisherfolk group Pamalakaya said, that Marcos can comprehend entering a joint venture with a country that illegally occupies and plunders our territorial waters.

In the groups assessment of the chief executives first year, Pamalakaya vice chairperson Ronnel Arambulo said: Walang mapagpasyang hakbang ang administrasyong Marcos para itaguyod ang ating karapatan sa karagatan, sa kabila ng matibay nating batayan tulad ng 2016 arbitral ruling. [Translation: The Marcos administration had no definitive step to uphold our rights in the waters despite having a strong basis like the 2016 arbitral ruling].

Next steps?

There have been calls for the government to bring the issue of Chinas bullying to the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) and to have the international body sponsor a resolution calling on Beijing to respect Manilas arbitral victory.

One of the moves proponents, Senator Risa Hontiveros, said that while UNGA resolutions are not legally binding, they carry significant political weight.

According to National Security Council (NSC) Assistant Director Jonathan Malaya, the council and the DFA are now discussing the idea.

I cannot speak on the record on this...This is a very sensitive matter, no? But we are in discussions, he said on CNN Philippines special program Pangulong Marcos: Ang Unang Taon [President Marcos: The First Year]. Siguro [Perhaps] thats what I can say, because this is something that has been raised repeatedly.

Political analysts Coronacion and De Castro both said they believe it is high time for the government to raise the issue before the UNGA.

Long overdue na nga yan eh [Its long overdue], Coronacion said. It shouldve been raised during the time of former President Duterte. But of course, we all know that he had a different foreign policy stance. So, sa tingin ko nararapat sa panahon ngayon. [But I think now is the right time.] We should explore all our options in terms of protecting our maritime territory.

Retired Senior Associate Justice Antonio Carpio has also pushed for the move, expressing confidence that the country will win there.

I think it's time to bring this issue, because we have a ruling that's binding, legal, and final already. We have the support of the G7, we have the support of the EU (European Union), we have the support of many coastal states, and we have to bring up the issue to the entire world, he said in a virtual forum.

We need world opinion on our side, because China has to feel the pressure that it is isolated. Because if China thinks that nobody cares about whats happening in the South China Sea, then China will use force. So, its time, Carpio added.

In the meantime, De Castro said the government also has to prepare its armed forces and continue to boost alliances should the Philippines find itself caught in the crossfire between the US and China.

We have a mutual defense treaty with the United States, so we cannot simply declare we're neutral. Because an alliance is a two-way street. We expect assistance from the United States and of course, the United States expects assistance from the Philippines, he said.
Notes on faith: Can the U.S. be saved? The Black prophetic voice holds the hope of true liberation

In pressing times like these, Rev. Calvin Taylor Skinner reflects on how the Black prophetic voice continues to provide guidance.

Notes on faith is theGrios inspirational, interdenominational series featuring Black thought leaders across faiths.

On this Independence Day weekend, our nation needs deep reflection and renouncement. Just as gifted songstress Nina Simone once expressed her contempt for the damnable hypocrisy that permeates our nation in the protest song Mississippi Goddam:

I cant stand the pressure much longer

Somebody say a prayer

Rev. Jeremiah Wright, pastor emeritus of the Trinity United Church of Christ in Chicago, Ill., addresses the National Press Club on April 28, 2008, in Washington, DC. Wright was Democratic presidential hopeful Sen. Barack Obamas pastor for many years and came under scrutiny when excerpts of one of his sermons showed him saying, God bless America No! God Damn America! Wright said that the negative attention was not about politics or politicians. This is not an attack on Jeremiah Wright, he said. It is an attack on the Black church. (Photo by Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images)

There is chronic fatigue that accompanies being Black in America, having to consistently and repeatedly confront the reality that our country will seemingly go out of her way to disappoint us. Understandably, that fatigue often leads to a disavowal of patriotism as we question our allegiance to a country that has not stood by us.

In short, we are tired.

When I think about the intentional policies that push my people into poverty, I am tired.

When I think about the overrepresentation of our brothers and sisters in prison compared to the underrepresentation of our people in higher education, or our inability to obtain adequate housing or jobs with living wages, I am tired.

When I think about the fact that it is 2023 and Black people are still struggling to receive equal protection under the law in these Divided States of Amerikkka, I am tired.

In these pressing times, we can feel tired and hopeless, as though this nation cannot be saved or is not worth saving. Yet, even when this struggle seems unbearable, we can find hope through the Black prophetic canon, as thinkers from Frederick Douglass to Rev. Jeremiah Wrights focus on our Divine Creators intentions for oppressed peoples outweighs all else.

Many recent legal decisions, including the Supreme Courts rulings on affirmative action and LGBTQ+ protections, affirm we are on a dangerous, damnable path of destruction, past the point of saving. When I use the language of saving or salvation, I mean it in a way that speaks to our deliverance from the danger of what is an invented pillar of this nation: systemic racism.

In a 6-3 decision for the University of North Carolina and a 6-2 decision in the case for Harvard, SCOTUS determined that American colleges and universities can no longer take race into consideration when factoring admissions. In a rare occurrence, Clarence Thomas, who voted against defending the Voting Rights Act only weeks earlier, read his concurring opinion from the bench in what many African Americans experienced as a peak ritual of internalized racism, the sunken place of self-destruction. This nations continuous maintenance of its racist nature positions us for an implosion that could take place any day.

In a 2022 discussion with theGrio, attorney Sue-Anne Robinson said, Affirmative action was always about giving qualified people opportunities because of the inequality created by historical systemic racism and sexism. Not only does the Courts decision scoff at the moderate progress made to address the inequities of opportunities for marginalized people, Thomas had the internalized Causacity to speak from the bench in support of the ruling when he himself shared in a 1983 speech that affirmative action is critical to minorities and women in this society.

Above all else, not only have white women greatly benefited from affirmative action in benefits like small business programs, but we also know affirmative action programs such as legacy admissions (which greatly benefit white men) will remain in place through college admissions. And then there is Chief Justice Roberts footnote that military academies will be exempted from the majority opinion. Make it all make sense.

Oh, I forgot: When it comes to these sorts of maneuvers in America, things dont have to make sense.

Justice Sonya Sotomayor noted in her dissent that the Courts opinion is not grounded in law or fact and contravenes the vision of equality embodied in the Fourteenth Amendment. As a public theologian rooted in social justice, I also see the moral implications of this decision. The current movements to uphold and further empower racial inequity through actions like the SCOTUS decision beg the question: Can America be Saved? I turn to Black prophetic voices to provide a framework of hope.

In the spiritual tradition of Mississippi Goddam and Frederick Douglass What to the Slave is the Fourth of July? (1852), Rev. Dr. Jeremiah Wrights iconic sermon, Confusing God and the Government (2003), infamously known as the God Damn, America sermon, is worth a similar hearing/reading as well.

Drawing from Luke 19:37-44, the message  excerpts of which wrongly were used to demonize Rev. Wright during Obamas 2008 campaign  addressed societys conflation of God and government. However, if we can intently listen to the truth spoken through his message, it offers a path to salvation. A gifted preacher, theologian, musician, and military veteran, I believe Wrights voice guides us in answering the question of Americas salvation.

Written in the direct genealogy of Douglass speech, the sermon highlights the hypocrisy of our nation, spoken in the Black prophetic tradition that elevates oppressed and marginalized peoples power. Like Douglass, Wright, now pastor emeritus of the Trinity United Church of Christ in Chicago, understands and conveys that until the true liberation of oppressed and marginalized people occurs, this nation will continue to impede life, liberty, and true justice for all in these Divided States of America.

What makes the removal of affirmative action both unpatriotic and immoral is its exclusion of the basic principles of equality in this nation. Additionally, it is essentially immoral in its dismissal of any notion of contrition for the historic and well-documented violence and enduring suppression enacted against African, Indigenous, and marginalized people in this nation.

Douglass warned of Americas nascent failings when its founding fathers claimed African descendants of this land were not considered fully human under the Constitution  a belief that still reverberates today through the Electoral College. Wright echoed a very similar sentiment in his message, noting that the U.S. has deliberately failed its citizens of African descent by put[ting] them out of equal protection under the law, [having] kept them out of their racist bastions of higher education and locked them into a position of hopelessness and helplessness.

These messages are not only prophetic but an indictment of the hypocrisy of a government that condemns tyranny on other shores while perpetrating the same actions on its most vulnerable citizens.

My hope lies in Douglasss estimation that The arm of the Lord is not shortened and the doom of slavery is certain.

Further, as Dr. Wright puts it, we can find confidence in the affirmation that Where governments fail, God never fails.

So when I ask if America can be saved, even under the siege of the questionably lawful decision of SCOTUS, be confident that God never fails. The doom of continuing disinheritance will be handled. Let us not give up. Like the Black prophets and ancestors before us, we must push toward true justice. We must press toward true liberation. We must press toward true equality. We cannot give up.

God never fails!

Rev. Calvin Taylor Skinner is dedicated to empowering frontline communities in Knoxville, Tenn. and the United Kingdom. He uses faith and policy to address energy justice, criminal justice reform, voter education/mobilization, electoral politics, and global affairs. Along with his wife, Rev. Dr. Alisha Lola Jones, they lead InSight Initiative, a consulting firm focusing on capacity building and live events production.

TheGrio is FREE on your TV via Apple TV, Amazon Fire, Roku, and Android TV. TheGrios Black Podcast Network is free too. Download theGrio mobile apps today! Listen to Writing Black with Maiysha Kai.

The post Notes on faith: Can the U.S. be saved? The Black prophetic voice holds the hope of true liberation appeared first on TheGrio.
Now we know what was in Dr. Louis Kappels medical bag. Local physicians legacy lives on

St. Clair County Historical Society Curator William P. Shannon IV takes pride in finding chores for his volunteers to do that match their interests. So when Dr. Stephen R. Kappel donated the medical bag that his father, Dr. Louis Kappel, carried to house calls, Shannon knew who to call on.

My wife, Mary Pat Spiers, a registered nurse for 46 years and an avid volunteer at the societys museum once a week, eagerly examined the battered black bag. This was right up her alley.

She got to catalog all the items in the bag. She was ecstatic, to say the least. So was Shannon, who said he knew nothing about medicine but was happy to receive the donation. Mary Pat cataloged 26 items out of the bag, including a stethoscope with worn-out rubber tubing.

The miscellany in the bag is a reminder of earlier times when doctors made house calls and had to drag along everything they thought they might need.

Louis Kappel was a urologist, so the bag was packed with a wide variety of catheters, one of the tools of the trade. It also had medicines, including some that needed to be safely disposed of, antibiotics like penicillin, and syringes, reusable but some with disposable needles.

One syringe came in a metal tube and in the other end of the tube was a set of two spare needles.

A scalpel, sutures and various disinfectants were part of the supplies as well as a pad of prescription forms listing Kappels office at 4601 State St. in East St. Louis. There were also a variety of urethra probes which will bring a shudder to anyone who has had urological problems.

Dr. Kappel graduated from the St. Louis University School of Medicine in 1934 and had a family medical practice. He was head of urological services at Fort Dix, New Jersey, during World War II and practiced in East St. Louis after getting out of the service.

He was involved with all the area hospitals, including helping get Memorial Hospital up and running and practicing urology in Belleville until 1986. He died in 2004 at age 94.

But some of his legacy will live on with his medical bag as long as there is a historical museum in St. Clair County.
Former Attorney General Eric Holder weighed in on if President Biden or the 2024 presidential winner should potentially pardon former President Donald Trump if he is convicted of federal charges.

"I think I'd I tell the president, the next attorney general, to let the system do its work. Try the cases, see what the results are. And then treat that convicted president, or anybody else who was convicted, as any other person," Holder, who served as AG under the Obama administration, said Sunday on CBS News' "Face the Nation."

Former President Donald Trump was indicted on federal charges last month related to alleged willful retention of national defense information, conspiracy to obstruct justice, and false statements. Trump pleaded not guilty and dismissed the charges as a "witch hunt." Trump also pleaded not guilty to state charges in New York in April over accusations of falsifying business records related to hush-money payments made during the 2016 election season.

"Pardons generally are for people who express remorse and then who have done things that shows that they have turned their lives around," Holder continued.

RAMASWAMY PLEDGES TO PARDON TRUMP IF ELECTED, CHALLENGES OPPONENTS TO MAKE SAME VOW

"If those kinds of determinations can be made with regard to the former president, or anybody else who was convicted, yeah, I would support that. In the absence of something like that, I don't think that would be a wise thing to do," he concluded.

READ ON THE FOX NEWS APP

Trump, the GOP front-runner for the 2024 election, and Republican allies have slammed the bevy of charges as the latest "witch hunt" leveled against him.

ERIC HOLDER: TRUMP COULD BE PROSECUTED AFTER LEAVING OFFICE, BUT AT A 'POTENTIAL COST TO THE NATION'

"The ridiculous and baseless indictment of me by the Biden administration's weaponized 'Department of Injustice' will go down as among the most horrific abuses of power in the history of our country," Trump said last month at the Georgia Republican Convention. "This vicious persecution is a travesty of justice."

"They've launched one witch hunt after another to try and stop our movement," he added. "They're not coming after me, they're coming after you."

TRUMP SLAMS 'SHAM' FEDERAL INDICTMENT AS 'ELECTION INTERFERENCE,' 'MOST HEINOUS ABUSE OF POWER' IN US HISTORY

Other Republican candidates who have thrown their hats into the 2024 presidential ring have recently signaled they would likely pardon Trump if he is in fact convicted, and if they win the White House, including Nikki Haley, Vivek Ramaswamy and Larry Elder. Other GOP candidates have openly said they would likely not pardon Trump if they are elected, including Chris Christie, Will Hurd and Asa Hutchinson.

In May, Biden laughed off a question from Fox News' Peter Doocy regarding whether he would potentially pardon the former president.
Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.) on Sunday called a concurring opinion by Justice Clarence Thomas that upended race-based college admissions profoundly disrespectful when it came his disagreeing with fellow Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson.

Anchor Dana Bash on CNNs State of the Union asked Ocasio-Cortez to weigh in on a blistering debate Thomas and Jackson, the courts only two Black justices, had in opinions when ultimately striking down affirmative action at colleges.

Thomas wrote in response to Jackson that it was unfathomable for her to label all Blacks as victims.

Worse still, JUSTICE JACKSON uses her broad observations about statistical relationships between race and select measures of health, wealth, and well-being to label all blacks as victims. Her desire to do so is unfathomable to me. I cannot deny the great accomplishments of black Americans, including those who succeeded despite long odds, Thomas wrote in his opinion.

Ocasio-Cortez defended Jackson, who she said issued an opinion grounded in fact.

I mean, what Justice Clarence Thomas wrote there, I believe, is profoundly disrespectful. I just think it was profoundly disrespectful to his colleague. It includes sweeping assumptions about her worldview, Ocasio-Cortez said.

Whereas when you look at what, what the response was from Justice Ketanji Brown, we saw that her dissent was grounded in fact, it was grounded in the facts of the case. It did not disparage Clarence Thomass overall worldview, but as a matter of fact, [was] a nuanced critique of his analysis of the facts of the case.

The Supreme Court wrapped up its term last week with several controversial landmark decisions that included effectively ending affirmative action in college admissions.

Thomas read his concurring opinion from the bench, voting with the 6-3 majority that struck down the admissions programs at the University of North Carolina and Harvard University. Jackson knocked the majority in her dissent.

For him to come out and insinuate that her opinion is due to some sort of inferior or less than, you know, less than really thought-out of a stance, I think its profoundly insulting, Ocasio-Cortez said Sunday of Thomass remarks.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
OceanGate told the woman whose husband and son were on the Titan that comms were often patchy, report says

From left: Suleman and Shahzada Dawood both died on the Titan sub. Reuters

Christine Dawood was told comms with the Titan sub were often patchy, The New York Times reported.

Dawood said she was "looking out on the ocean" in case the sub resurfaced after it lost contact.

Dawood said OceanGate waived a rule to let her 17-year-old daughter on the Titan's mothership.

Communication between OceanGate's Titan sub and its mothership was often patchy, Christine Dawood said she was told, per The New York Times.

Dawood, whose husband, Shahzada, and 19-year-old son, Suleman, died on the sub, told the newspaper that comms failures were common after teams lost contact between the Polar Prince and the Titan.

She said that OceanGate told her that the expedition would be aborted and that the Titan would drop weights so it could resurface if it couldn't reestablish communication after an hour.

"I was also looking out on the ocean, in case I could maybe see them surfacing," she told the newspaper.



Shahzada and Suleman Dawood were among the five passengers on OceanGate's sub that imploded on an expedition to the Titanic's wreckage.

Shahzada was a 48-year-old multimillionaire who came from one of Pakistan's wealthiest families. He was a member of the British Asian Trust, a charity that the British royal family started.

Suleman was studying at Strathclyde University in Glasgow. A statement from the university said it was "profoundly saddened" to learn of the deaths.



Christine Dawood told BBC News last week that she'd planned to go on the expedition with her husband, but let her son take her place "because he really wanted to go." She was still on the Polar Prince with the crew when the US Coast Guard announced that it had found debris from the Titan.

Her 17-year-old daughter, Alina Dawood, was also on the Polar Prince on the day of the dive. The Times reported that OceanGate waived a rule to allow her to join.

The Titan sub was reported missing on June 18, and the US Coast Guard said four days later that the passengers all died after its teams found debris from the submersible on the ocean floor.

The Transportation Safety Board of Canada, which is investigating the Polar Prince, said this week that it had sent the ship's voyage-data recorder to a lab in Ottawa for analysis.

OceanGate didn't immediately respond to a request for comment from Insider made outside normal working hours.

Read the original article on Insider
For the Whiteheads, an African American family living in the city of Baltimore, race is discussed at the dinner table. In the car on the way to work and school and games. In the backyard while the sons practice sports.

So when the Supreme Court struck down race-conscious admissions at colleges and universities, effectively ending the practice known as affirmative action, the family began talking about it earnestly, echoing the range of emotions felt by people across the country who are invested in the ruling.

Although the result was anticipated, Karsonya Wise Whitehead, 54, a college professor, said she was so devastated that she had to sit down to process the type of history being made at that moment.

Sign up for The Morning newsletter from the New York Times

Her husband, Johnnie Whitehead, 59, the principal of a Christian school, said he took no joy in the ruling but was ambivalent about affirmative action. He is hopeful that it is no longer needed, but fears it is.

The eldest son, Kofi, 22, texted his brother Amir to share the news, and thought of the chilling effect it might have on the next generation of Black students. Amir, 20, felt that ending affirmative action was not wrong because admissions should be based upon merits only.

For the Whiteheads, the Supreme Court decision  seismic in its power to reorder the admissions process at elite colleges and universities  was another chapter in a broader discussion they had been having since their children were young.

Their conversation reflects, in some ways, the complex and shifting views among African Americans grappling with the question embedded in the nations every contemporary racial conflict, from reparations to the American justice system: How to deal with the legacy of slavery?

This is part of our ongoing conversation about the tensions around racism and around race, said Karsonya Whitehead, who teaches African American studies and communications at Loyola University Maryland and is the executive director of the Karson Institute for Race, Peace and Social Justice at the college. Weve seen different iterations of: What does it mean to be Black in America? Where do we fit into America? Whose America is this? And if we want to have equity, what does this equity look like?

The familys early talks centered on making sure their sons were confident in who they were as young Black men. That gave way to other topics.

Kofi favors reparations but doesnt know what the right amount of money should be for Black families whose ancestors were enslaved. Amir favors reparations in some form, too, saying, We built this country, we deserve some part of it. Karsonya Whitehead is not only in support, but she believes it is the only way forward to address the historical debt. Johnnie Whitehead said Black Americans deserved reparations, particularly since the country had paid others that it harmed, but did not see it as a way to solve racism.

When it comes to affirmative action, African Americans are broadly supportive of the policy.

According to a Pew Research Center report released last month, only 33% of American adults approve of race-conscious admissions at selective colleges. Forty-seven percent of African American adults say they approve.

The research also revealed that 28% of Black adults said others had assumed that they benefited unfairly from efforts to increase racial and ethnic diversity.

A separate NBC poll in April found about half of Americans agreed that an affirmative action program was still necessary to counteract the effects of discrimination against minorities, and are a good idea as long as there are no rigid quotas. Among African Americans, the number in support of that statement increased to about 77%.

The starkly different attitudes toward the merits of affirmative action were laid bare most profoundly in the words of the only two Black justices. Their written exchange mirrored how the landmark decision was discussed, debated and deconstructed among friends and families  including the Whiteheads  at dinner tables, in group chats and on social media.

Justices Clarence Thomas, who attended Yale University, and Ketanji Brown Jackson, who attended Harvard University, challenged each others views, agreeing only on the existence of racial disparities but sharply disagreeing on how to address them.

As she sees things, we are all inexorably trapped in a fundamentally racist society, with the original sin of slavery and the historical subjugation of Black Americans still determining our lives today, wrote Thomas, the nations second Black justice and a longtime critic of affirmative action.

Jackson, in her dissent, said Thomas is somehow persuaded that these realities have no bearing on a fair assessment of individual achievement, she wrote. In her opinion, the courts conservative majority displayed a let-them-eat-cake obliviousness on the issue of race.

In some ways, the Whiteheads views of affirmative action aligned with both of the justices arguments outlined on the pages of the ruling.

For Karsonya Whitehead, a radio show host, author and the daughter of civil rights activists, the dismantling of affirmative action  rooted in the civil rights movement as part of federal policy to counteract discrimination  was a gut punch. She said she personally benefited from affirmative action as the first Black student in the Kroc Institute for International Peace Studies program at the University of Notre Dame. She worries that the decision portends what is to come, shaping other aspects of life, including corporate hiring.

Johnnie Whitehead said he understood the practice as a way to counter discrimination and mistreatment of African Americans. And, he said, if affirmative action is going to be abolished, legacy preferences should go, too.

Id like to believe that we are a nation that doesnt have to have affirmative action, but I fear we still need it, said Whitehead, who is also a teacher at Baltimore School of the Bible.

Kofi, the eldest son, who graduated from Rhodes College in May with an English degree, has a sensibility closer to his mothers. He first began following the issue in high school after learning about a white student in Texas who sued the University of Texas at Austin for its use of race in admission decisions.

He sees last weeks ruling as both out of touch with the pervasiveness of modern racism and a blow to future generations of Black students looking to attend elite schools. And he chafes at the argument that college academic standards are lowered to create diverse campuses.

Affirmative action is about opening the door to diverse backgrounds because that is what education and higher learning is about, Kofi said. Its not about having 5,000 of the same kids in two-parent households and white picket fences who all come in and do the same thing. No. College and higher education is about bringing in different people so you can learn from each other.

His younger brother Amir, who is a member of Lafayette Colleges fencing team, sees it differently. A college sophomore who is studying economics, he began developing his political and socially conservative views as a middle school student during the presidential race between Hillary Clinton and Donald Trump.

While he and his mothers views are the furthest apart, she said he was raised to be an independent thinker.

He agrees with the other members of his family that race, and the nations history of enslavement of Black people, undeniably affects the present day. But, he said he believed that affirmative action undermined the concept of earning admission based on qualifications rather than race.

Affirmative action being taken away is not so much a bad thing, because I dont think that anyone who is not qualified for something should get that purely based off their skin color, said Amir, who noted that he included his race on his college application but did not include the subject in his personal essay.

I am not saying the bar has been lowered, he said. I just feel as though sometimes, cases come down to race. I think that goes back to us, as a country, where everything is focused on race.

c.2023 The New York Times Company
The Straw Hats in Netflix's live-action One Piece.

The anime adaptation of Eiichiro Odas One Piece has been going on for nearly 25 years, and is still finding ways to impress longtime fans of the franchise. With Netflixs upcoming take, the aim is to recapture some of the magic that enchanted viewers back in 1999, but via live-action for new audiences. Those whove been with the series for so long may have a tough time adjusting to seeing fresh new faces portray the Straw Hats in a new medium, but the new series is connecting itself to the anime through its voice cast.



During this weekends Anime Expo, Netflix revealed the Japanese voice actors for Luffy (Mayumi Tanaka), Zoro (Kazuya Nakai), Usopp (Kappei Yamaguchi), Nami (Akemi Okamura), and Sanji (Hiroaki Hirata) will be reprising their respective roles to dub the live-action show. Additionally, the live-action Luffy (Inaki Godoy) and Sanji (Taz Skylar) will dub their respective characters in the Spanish dub. At time of writing, it appears that only the original Straw Hats are coming for this dub; Japanese actors for other key characters such as Buggy and Shanks have yet to be revealed. As for future Straw Hat members...well, thatll depend on whether or not the live-action show gets a second season.

Read more



ONE PIECE | Anime Expo Announcement | Netflix

Not entirely unlike Ash Ketchums Japanese voice actor Rica Matsumoto, the cast for One Piece are as important to the anime as Oda himself. Beyond portraying their respective characters in spinoff media such as games and movies, theyve all lent their voices to music tracks during the shows run, including an all-cast version of the original opening, We Are! by Hiroshi Kitadani. Its nice that Netflix has found a way to incorporate the original cast into this new take on the material. Hopefully, though, the live-action show (and its cast) will find a way to carve out its own identity separate from whats come before and shows no sign of ending anytime soon.

One Piece premieres August 31 on Netflix.





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.

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Specialists from the Institute for the Study of War (ISW) suggest that the Russian command may have to make difficult decisions over whether to start withdrawing forces from southern Ukraine or risk establishing significant vulnerabilities in Kherson or Luhansk Oblasts as a result of military operations surrounding Bakhmut.

Source: Institute for the Study of War

Details: According to the review, Russian forces are likely moving troops from other parts of Ukraine in response to Ukrainian operations around Bakhmut.

With this in mind, analysts predict: "If Russian reinforcements already sent to Bakhmut are insufficient to hold Russian gains in the area the Russian command may face difficult choices about whether to risk creating serious vulnerabilities in Kherson or Luhansk oblasts or to begin drawing forces away from southern Ukraine.."

The report also says that Russian sources claim that on 1 July, Ukrainian troops conducted counteroffensive operations in at least four sectors of the front.

Analysts General Mark Milley, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, acknowledged that Ukrainian counteroffensive operations would take longer than some Western observers expected.

According to experts, such statements about Ukrainian operations indicate that Ukrainian troops are not currently trying to conduct large-scale operations that could lead to a rapid territorial advance.

Meanwhile, Ukrainian officials regularly point out that the defence forces have not yet allocated a significant part of their forces for counteroffensive operations and have not yet begun the main phase of the counteroffensive.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said the Russians could initiate a deliberate leak of radioactive substances at the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant as part of a potential Russian strategy to freeze the war.

Experts believe that Russia is likely to continue to use the threat of a radiological incident to deter the Ukrainian counteroffensive and weaken Western military support for Ukraine.

Russian propagandists are probably conducting an information campaign to discredit the Wagner Group in favour of integrating former PMC fighters into the structures of the Russian Ministry of Defence.

Specialists of the Institute believe that this is support for a campaign by Russian President Vladimir Putin, aimed at destroying the personal reputation of the founder of Wagner Yevgeny Prigozhin.

To quote the ISWs Key Takeaways for 1 July:

Russian sources claimed that Ukrainian forces conducted counteroffensive operations in at least four sectors of the frontline on 1 July.

US Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff General Mark Milley acknowledged that Ukrainian counteroffensive operations will take longer than some Western observers had expected.

Russian officials and sources celebrated claims that Russian forces defeated small-scale Ukrainian landings in east (left) bank Kherson Oblast on 1 July as if they had won a major victory.

The exaggerated Russian praise for defeating a small Ukrainian landing suggests either that the Russian military command sincerely fears a Ukrainian attack on east bank Kherson Oblast or that it is desperate for an informational victory following the Wagner Groups armed rebellion or both.

Russian forces are likely responding to Ukrainian operations around Bakhmut by pulling forces from elsewhere in Ukraine.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky stated that the Russians might initiate an intentional radioactive leak at the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant (ZNPP) as part of a potential Russian strategy to freeze the war.

Russian propagandists are likely conducting an information campaign to destroy the Wagner Groups reputation as a uniquely effective fighting force in support of the Russian Ministry of Defences (MoD) effort to dismantle the Wagner Group and integrate former Wagner fighters into MoD structures.

Russian forces continued limited offensive operations along the Svatove-Kreminna line.

Ukrainian forces continued to conduct ground attacks around Bakhmut.

Russian forces continued to conduct limited ground attacks in and transfer airborne (VDV) elements to the Bakhmut area.

Russian forces continued to conduct limited ground attacks along the Avdiivka-Donetsk City line.

Russian forces continued to counterattack recently-liberated Ukrainian positions on the administrative border between Donetsk and Zaporizhia oblasts.

Ukrainian forces continued counteroffensive operations in western Zaporizhia Oblast.

Russian security procedures on the Kerch Strait bridge are likely slowing down Russian logistics from Russia to occupied Crimea.

Iran may be sending materiel and personnel to Russia to help construct a factory in the Republic of Tatarstan that will reportedly make Iranian combat drones.

Ukrainian and Western sources continue to report on the abductions of Ukrainian children and adults in the occupied territories.

Journalists fight on their own frontline. Support Ukrainska Pravda or become our patron!
A small American flag is illuminated by fireworks on July 4, 2022. This is the 247th birthday of this nation. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News

Once the Declaration of Independence had been approved by the Second Continental Congress in 1776, it had an astonishing effect upon the people. For example, on July 8, 1776  the Declaration of Independence was read in the Independence Hall courtyard at noon. Crowds gathered, military personnel dressed in uniforms, and delegates stood on the steps of the hall to read the document. At the end of the reading, rather than say the customary phrase, God save the King, everyone shouted, God Bless our American States!

Abigail Adams writes, The Bells rang the privateers fired the forts and batteries, the cannons were discharged the platoons followed and every face appeared joyfull. ... After dinner the kings arms were taken down from the State House and every vestige of him from every place in which it appeared and burnt. ... Thus ends royal Authority in this State.

In a letter from John Adams to Abigail Adams, Adams declares, I am well aware of the Toil and Blood and Treasure it will cost Us to maintain this declaration, and support and defend these States. Yet through all the Gloom I can see the Rays of ravishing Light and Glory.

I can see that the end is worth all the means. This is our day of deliverance. With solemn acts of devotion to God we ought to commemorate it with pomp and parade, with shows, games, sports, guns, bells, bonfires and illuminations from one end of the continent to the other from this time forward forevermore ...

After 247 years, is our patriotic fervor for the Declaration of Independence the same as the Founders?

William Bennett proclaims the United States of America is the worlds best (and last) hope for freedom and liberty in the world.

Let freedom ring enthusiastically!

Bradford L. Butler

Salt Lake City
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, July 2)  The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) on Saturday said it was alarmed by a reported hazing incident involving a minor in Quezon City and is investigating the matter.

The hazing was allegedly committed by the fraternity president of Magic 5, together with a member of the Alpha Kappa Rho International Fraternity, and the president of SBP fraternity in Quezon City, the CHR said in a statement.

Citing the Quezon City Police District, the CHR said the victim passed out due to unbearable pain and physical injuries. The minor was hospitalized.

"The victim was reportedly a member of the Scout Royale Brotherhood Nu-Theta Chapter Fraternity and transferred to Magic 5, which insulted his former 'brothers,'" the agency said. "As part of their fraternity rules, he was allegedly taken to San Roque in Barangay Pagasa to 'discipline' him and was transferred again to a shop along Road 10, where his former brothers conducted the hazing."

The CHR National Capital Region office is currently investigating the incident, saying "[v]iolent acts, especially those which trample on the dignity of minors, despite the presence of the Anti-Hazing Law and the Anti-Child Abuse Law, should be condemned."

"We continue to urge all concerned agencies, local governments, security sector, and schools for concrete mechanisms to prevent hazing as it violates the right to safety and security, and poses long-term physical and psychological harm to the victims," the CHR said, reminding communities to stay vigilant and report any incidents of hazing and abuse.
The U.S. Supreme Court is seen June 28, 2023, on Capitol Hill in Washington. On June 30, 2023, the Supreme Court ruled 6-3 in favor of the web designer in 303 Creative v. Elenis. | Mariam Zuhaib, Associated Press

Imagine you are a gay website designer and youre asked to design a website for a group advocating against same-sex marriage. If you refused, Fridays Supreme Court decision in 303 Creative v. Elenis protects you against a zealous state official who might want to prosecute you for discrimination on the basis of sex or religion. Yet, because the fact pattern in 303 Creative is based upon the opposite scenario of a conservative religious website designer refusing to design a site for a same-sex wedding, the case is being widely characterized in the press as anti-gay rights.

This is a free speech decision that protects everyone, gay and straight, and stands for the proposition that the state cannot compel Americans engaged in expressive speech  even those operating small businesses  to say things they do not believe. It also protects us all from discrimination and harassment on the part of state bureaucrats tasked with enforcing anti-discrimination laws, who all too often enforce those laws in ways that intimidate and penalize the politically unpopular.

Related

As Justice Neil Gorsuch explains in his majority opinion, it stands for the proposition that public accommodations laws are not beyond the reach of the Constitution.

And yet, most of the press coverage has characterized the case as simply being pro-religion and anti-LGBTQ rights. For example, the New York Times headline on the story reads, Supreme Court Backs Web Designer Opposed to Same-Sex Marriage, and CNNs headline says, Supreme Court limits LGBTQ protections with ruling in favor of Christian Web Designer.

The stories themselves often amplify this religion versus gay rights theme. Sounding a rare contrary note, the editorial board of the Wall Street Journal ran a headline stating, 303 Creative v. Elenis Is a Victory for Free Speech and Pluralism. This gets closer to the actual meaning of the decision.

As Justice Gorsuch, writing for the majority, explains in the first paragraph of the decision, in this particular case Colorado does not just seek to ensure the sale of goods or services on equal terms. It seeks to use its law to compel an individual to create speech she does not believe.

As Justice Gorsuch and the majority conclude, the free speech provisions of the First Amendment make such government coercion unconstitutional.

It is telling that the Supreme Court excluded the religious claims of the website designer when it agreed to take the case, and focused exclusively on her free speech argument. All of the parties in the case agreed that Lorie Smith would serve all customers, including LBGTQ customers. They also agreed that the website design was expressive work that involved original, customized creation that would tell a particular story. What Ms. Smith objected to was being forced to communicate a message that she did not believe, in this case her views that marriage is between one man and one woman.

It should go without saying, you dont have to agree with Ms. Smiths personal beliefs to agree that the state should not force her to express views contrary to her beliefs.

As Stanford Law professor Michael McConnell has noted, numerous dressmakers declined to make an inauguration gown for Melania Trump when her husband was elected president, and nearly everyone thought it was important that these dressmakers had the freedom to decline the work. The same logic should apply to other artisans who are providing customized services, including bakers, photographers and website designers. Living in a pluralistic society includes the possibility that some people may not want to help us deliver messages that are important to us. This would include a baker who didnt want to bake a cake depicting the Book of Mormon or the Angel Moroni. This is something we accept living in a diverse and pluralistic society.

The most important precedents here may be the flag salute cases from the 1950s where the court first ruled that children could be forced to recite the pledge of allegiance, and then a few years later, reversed course, stating (in language that Justice Gorsuch quoted in 303 Creative) that if there is any fixed star in our constitutional constellation, it is that no official, high or petty, can prescribe what shall be orthodox in politics, nationalism, religion, or other matters of opinion or force citizens to confess by word or act their faith therein.

Brett G. Scharffs is Rex E. Lee Chair and a professor of law at the J. Reuben Clark Law School, and director of the International Center for Law and Religion Studies at Brigham Young University.
Rev. Mark Creech

There is a poignant scene in the movie "Schindler's List" when Oskar Schindler, the film's main character, played by Liam Neeson, walks through a crowded train yard filled with Jewish prisoners he has managed to save from the concentration camp. This film, released in 1993, and produced by Stephen Spielberg, depicts Schindler as visibly overcome with emotion as he views many faces that represent a sea of suffering.

As he stares at the masses of people, Schindler's face becomes contorted with sorrow and regret. He contemplates even tiny actions he might have taken that could have saved more lives but he omitted. Despite having saved more than 1,100 Jewish lives, Schindler sobs uncontrollably; the weight of his failure to act when he could have weighs heavily on his conscience with a profound sense of guilt.

What's the old proverb? "Opportunity never knocks twice at any mans door, which implies if one fails to act or take advantage of an opportunity when it presents itself, sometimes it never comes again.

Legislation has been introduced in the North Carolina General Assembly, which provides a tremendous opportunity to save countless lives. House Bill 148 - Driving/Reduce Legal BAC Level would lower the legal blood alcohol concentration limit for drunken driving from .08 to .05.

Drunken driving is a severe problem in the Tar Heel state. Its a leading cause of death on our roadways. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, there were 10,497 fatalities in North Carolina due to drunken driving from 1982-2019.

More: Opinion: My placenta, my choice: Why are NC women being forced to act as life support?

Mike Clampitt, R-Swain, the champion of HB 148, argues that new drunk driving legislation to save lives in North Carolina is more urgent than ever. He notes that the state has grown exponentially in recent years from a population of 7 million to over 10 million, which means an increase in impaired drivers on the state's roads. Impaired driving, says Clampitt, swelled 18% from 2019-2020, and it's rapidly getting worse.

Clampitt got the idea for lowering the BAC limit from legislation enacted in Utah in 2017, which has proven a phenomenal success. In a joint letter to members of the N.C. House Committee on Judiciary 2 and its Chair, Rep. Sarah Stevens, R-Surry, 10 national public health and safety advocacy groups advised:

"A recent study, Evaluation of Utah's .05 BAC Per Se Law, released by the NHTSA, provides critical data on the success of Utah's .05 percent BAC law. The study finds that Utah experienced a nearly 20% drop in traffic fatalities in 2019, the first year the law was in effect, compared to 2016, the last year before the law was enacted. This improvement in roadway safety occurred despite an increase in vehicle miles traveled and outpaced neighboring states as well as the nation as a whole.

More: Editor: Open call for women to share their voices, during Women's History Month and always

"Opponents may state that lowering the BAC will reduce alcohol sales and endanger certain businesses but reducing BAC limits does not discourage alcohol consumption. In fact, the Utah study found that state revenues from taxes related to the hospitality industry continued to rise, and tourism increased. Once again, the Utah study provides clear data showing that arrests due to drunk driving did not spike, nor was the criminal justice system overwhelmed."

So, please. How is this legislation not a win for everybody? How could such a law even be considered controversial?

Contrary to what many think, it's not safe to drive after having only a few drinks. Research has demonstrably proven drivers with a BAC level as low as 0.5 to 0.79 are at least seven times more likely to be involved in a single vehicle fatal crash than drivers without alcohol in their system.

North Carolina needs to get serious about saving lives from impaired driving. Yet this proposal, HB 148, doesn't seem to be on the radar of House or Senate members for this year.

More: Opinion: Proud to work as a physician at Mission Hospital and HCA Healthcare

Understandably, state lawmakers are overwhelmed with considerations as public servants. Realistically, they can't get to all of them. Generally speaking, the issues they concentrate on serve our state well, and they deserve our commendation. However, preserving life should always take precedence.

Maybe if we considered not only the cold statistics on drunen driving but could look straight into the faces of its ocean of pain  perhaps if we thought carefully about the numerous lives that would have been saved but now won't be because we didn't act  then possibly we might find our omission lamentable.

Rev. Mark Creech is executive director of the Raleigh-based Christian Action League of North Carolina, Inc.

This article originally appeared on Asheville Citizen Times: Inaction on North Carolina drunken driving legislation lamentable
In May, moments after the Texas House voted to impeach state Attorney General Ken Paxton, his office released an "outside" report produced by a private law firm that asserted his innocence against some of the allegations levied against him.

What Paxton and his office did not say: The law firm that produced the report, Lewis Brisbois Bisgaard & Smith, has been paid more than $500,000 in public money to defend him against whistleblowers who sued the agency for wrongful termination because they went to the FBI with allegations of corruption.

The outside firm never interviewed Paxton or key agency leaders who attorneys acknowledged could have provided useful information. Nevertheless, findings from the 56-page report conclude that the firings were likely lawful.

Neither Paxton's office nor a lawyer at Lewis Brisbois Bisgaard & Smith returned messages from the American-Statesman for comment to explain how they handled the apparent conflict or why Paxton wasn't interviewed.

The revelation calls into question the reports veracity at a time when, ironically, Paxton and his supporters are challenging the legitimacy of a House impeachment vote that did not include firsthand witness testimony or a chance for Paxton or his lawyers to rebut evidence.

Suspended Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, shown at a May 26 news conference where he declined to answer questions, was never interviewed by a private law firm for a report that asserts his innocence against some of the allegations against him.

Paxton, who has been suspended from office without pay, faces an impeachment trial in the Senate that could remove him from office permanently. Those proceedings will center largely on criminal and ethical allegations the whistleblowers made against Paxton, including bribery and misuse of office.

The trial is set to begin Sept. 5.

Though the law firm's report offers a strident defense of the firings, it notably was completed in February around the time the attorney generals office reached a tentative settlement agreement with the whistleblowers to resolve the case. The settlement called for Paxton to apologize publicly for calling them rogue employees and for the four aides who brought the suit to receive a combined $3.3 million. Lawyers in Paxtons office have said that if the case proceeds to trial, the final bill will exceed the settlement amount.

That deal, however, fell apart in March when the House balked at resolving the matter with taxpayer money and, instead, a House investigating committee launched a review into Paxtons many legal issues. That review, which advanced quietly during the legislative session, became public in late May and culminated in Paxtons impeachment on a 121-23 vote that included a majority of Republicans voting yes.

Report is almost useless

Drafted by Lewis Brisbois Bisgaard & Smith, the new report expounds upon an earlier in-house attorney general's reportfrom August 2021 that concludes the firings were legally justified and not done in retaliation for the whistleblowers' criminal complaint to the FBI. That 374-page document is the basis for two articles of impeachment against Paxton  one that says the report was a sham investigation and the other that says Paxton made false or misleading statements in the report to mislead the public and public officials.

The new report is dated May 24, three days before the House impeachment vote. But, after it was released, the attorney general's office announced it was actually from February and that the May date is shown because an "auto-updater" assigns the present date that the report is opened.

A news release from the attorney general's office that accompanied the report says it is "comprehensive" and "unequivocally refutes incorrect testimony" from a House investigative panel.

But under a section in the report that acknowledges its limitations, it says the firm did not interview Paxton "or other potentially key OAG officials and employees, or any individual outside of the OAG including ... former OAG employees who may have knowledge of some relevant facts.

Payment records obtained by the Statesman show that through mid-May the attorney generals office had paid Lewis Brisbois $519,000 for representation in the whistleblower lawsuit. The firm was brought on at the end of 2020 when the whistleblower lawsuit was filed. The total cost for the recent whistleblower report is unknown, as invoices do not always include specific work the lawyers did.

Mike Golden, director of advocacy at the University of Texas Law School, said he views the report "more as a piece of advocacy than a true investigative report."

In a news release after the impeachment, the attorney generals office said that days before the House vote an agency official tried but was not given an opportunity to provide a copy of the report to the House General Investigating Committee. That official was Chris Hilton, the agencys chief of general litigation. Hilton is among six attorney general's office employees who took a leave of absence to help Paxton prepare for the September impeachment trial.

Chris Hilton is among six attorney general's office employees who took a leave of absence to help Ken Paxton prepare for Paxton's September impeachment trial in the Senate.

The report confirms that Paxton, not anyone else in the office, is the decision-maker on hiring and firing employees. As such, Golden said, the absence of a Paxton interview is a significant missing piece of information.

In a lawsuit when an organization is accused of firing someone wrongfully, primarily the organizations defense is to say, 'No, we fired them for this other independent, lawful reason,' said Golden, a former practicing employment law attorney. To not be able to verify the stated reason for firing someone with the person who made that decision makes the report almost useless.

The report also appears to come up short in that it does not address two key claims brought by the whistleblowers. They allege that Paxton received a home remodel from Austin real estate developer Nate Paul, a friend and political donor, in exchange for misusing the attorney generals office to support Paul in numerous legal matters. They also say Paul employed an out-of-town woman with whom Paxton was having an extramarital relationship.

Within days of Paxton's impeachment, Paul in June was arrested and charged with eight counts of federal mortgage fraud.

Paxtons silence continues

Though it's notable that it was his own lawyers he did not speak with, Paxton, a three-term Republican, has scarcely discussed the allegations against him beyond general denials. In May, days before the impeachment vote, he rushed out of a news conference at his agencys headquarters without taking questions, leaving it to his subordinates to do most of the talking. Last year, he famously fled his home to avoid being served a subpoena in a separate federal abortion lawsuit as the passenger in a truck driven by his wife, Sen. Angela Paxton.

Paxton, based on rules the Senate adopted for his trial, could be called to testify as a witness. However, legal experts say that if that happens, Paxton could invoke his Fifth Amendment right against self-incrimination and once again avoid answering questions. Paxton remains under federal investigation for allegations brought by the whistleblowers.

The report would not have been accessible to the public had Paxton's office not released it. On the first page, it notes that the memo is attorney-client privileged, an exception to public disclosure. Michael Green, director of Texas A&M University's workplace law program, says that such language makes it clear the firm is working for the attorney general's office and is not independent. He said that contradicts a news release from Paxton's office that says the agency retained an outside law firm to review claims of retaliation by the former employees.

If they were hired as outside counsel, they are attorneys for the attorney generals office, Green said.

Green added that he would have liked to see an explanation for why the firm did not speak with Paxton, or if it even tried to do so.

They may have their reasons, but at least it would have been helpful to know why they did not speak to the AG, Green said.

Elsewhere in the report, the firm explains why it failed to speak with another agency source, a former human resources director. That employee's lawyer turned down an interview request, the report says.

Could report drive up suit's cost?

Austin Kaplan, an Austin employment attorney, said he was shocked when he realized the firm that authored the report also represented the agency in the whistleblower suit.

He said often in such matters, issues such as whether a top boss knew about planned or executed terminations is a key issue in a whistleblower case. The report, however, makes it clear that Paxton was aware, as it says he has "at all times been the decision-maker with respect to hiring and firing employees."

"It is harmful to their litigation position," Kaplan said. "It is an admission of a fact that is usually beneficial to the plaintiffs, the whistleblowers."

Kaplan added that the document is filled with other revelations, including the strategy for Paxton's defense. For example, it describes how the office claims it was already planning to fire the employees before they went to the FBI.

"The only thing left to determine is whether that could possibly be true," he added.

Because the report released so many details  including Paxton's direct knowledge of the terminations  he said he thinks that the overall cost of the whistleblower case, either through a jury verdict or settlement, likely could be driven higher.

"My best guess is that they have decided that the impeachment is the ballgame for them, and, if they survive that, nobody cares what happens in the whistleblower case," he said.

This article originally appeared on Austin American-Statesman: Law firm that wrote 'outside' report paid $500K by Texas AG Ken Paxton
FILE PHOTO: Pope Francis' envoy Cardinal Matteo Zuppi attends a mass in the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception in Moscow

MILAN (Reuters) - Papal envoy Cardinal Matteo Zuppi said on Sunday his mission to Moscow on the Ukraine war was focused on humanitarian issues and had not involved any discussions of a peace plan.

Pope Francis had in May asked Zuppi, head of the Italian bishops' conference, to carry out a peace mission to try to help end the war in Ukraine.

Zuppi met one of President Vladimir Putin's advisers, Yuri Ushakov, and the head of the Russian Orthodox Church, Patriarch Kirill, in Moscow this week. Earlier in June, he also visited Kyiv for talks with President Volodymyr Zelenskiy.

All the meetings "were important, especially in humanitarian aspects, which are what we have focused on. There is not a peace plan, not a mediation", Zuppi told state broadcaster RAI.

"There is a big aspiration that the violence will end and that human life can be preserved, starting with the protection of the little ones", he said, adding he would meet with Pope Francis in coming days to discuss the outcome of the meetings he had held.

Speaking to a religious delegation from the Patriarch of Constantinople on Friday, Pope Francis said there was no apparent end in sight to the war in Ukraine as his peace envoy wrapped up three days of talks in Moscow.

On the same day, a Vatican statement said the visit was "aimed at identifying humanitarian initiatives, which could open roads to peace".

Francis has called repeatedly for an end to the Russian invasion of Ukraine, which has destroyed Ukrainian villages and towns, caused the deaths of tens of thousands of people, and driven millions more from their homes.

During his Sunday blessing, Francis called on pilgrims to keep praying for peace, "even during summer time and especially for Ukrainian people".

(Reporting by Gianluca Semeraro; Editing by David Holmes)
Some of the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant (ZNPP) employees who collaborate with Russian, as well as some of the Rosatom personnel, have left the temporarily occupied city of Enerhodar, Zaporizhzhia Oblast.

Source: Dmytro Orlov, Mayor of Enerhodar, in a comment to Ukrainske Radio

Details: According to the mayor, some of the collaborators, ZNPP employees who had signed contracts with Rosatom, have left Enerhodar. In addition, some of the Rosatom personnel brought from Russian nuclear power plants  up to 100 specialists  left the city at the end of the previous week.

About 5,000-6,000 employees of the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant are currently staying in the temporarily occupied city of Enerhodar, and they are virtual hostages of the Russian army, the mayor said. The occupation authorities do not allow them to leave the city. They are also not allowed to go to work because their passes have been blocked if they have not signed a contract with Rosatom.

Orlov has also said that there are no shelters in Enerhodar in case of an explosion at the Zaporizhzhia NPP.

Background:

Journalists fight on their own frontline. Support Ukrainska Pravda or become our patron!
Former Vice President Mike Pence said Sunday that President Biden is to blame for the U.S. withdrawal out of Afghanistan, where 13 American service members were killed during an attack as they worked to evacuate allies from the country.

We went 18 months without a single American casualty to the day at that Kabul airport that we lost 13 brave American service members, Pence told CBSs Margaret Brennan on Face the Nation. The blame for what happened here falls squarely on the current commander in chief.

An unclassified State Department review published Friday found that both the Trump and Biden administrations contributed to a chaotic and fatal end to the decades-long U.S. presence in Afghanistan. Among other findings, the report said that senior officials did not prepare for the worst-case scenario nor how the situation could quickly escalate.

Despite the Trump administration, in which Pence served, having laid out the plan the Biden administration ultimately executed, Pence blamed the lack of movement by the administration when the Taliban began their swift take over of major cities.

And under our administration, I promise you, that while  while it was our  it was the intention of the president, the former president to pull our troops out, when the Taliban broke the deal and moved into Mazar-e-Sharif and Joe Biden did nothing, that set into motion the catastrophe that became Afghanistan and the heartbreaking end to 20 years of conflict, Pence said on Sunday.

When asked if he would have kept American troops in Afghanistan past the deal made in 2020, Pence said he thinks he would have. He said that under the Trump administration, the withdrawal from Afghanistan would not have happened like it did under Biden.

I will tell you with deep conviction that that disastrous withdrawal from Afghanistan would never have happened under our administration, because we would have held the Taliban to the deal, he said. And I believe at the end of the day, Afghanistan would be a much different place today.

And frankly, our security and our long-term interests would be far better off. No whitewash from the Pentagon is going to change that, he added. The responsibility for that disastrous withdrawal falls squarely on President Joe Biden and the American people know it.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Former Vice President Mike Pence said Sunday that President Bidens labeling of Chinese President Xi Jinping as a dictator was a statement of fact.

CBSs Margaret Brennan asked Pence whether he agreed with Biden describing Xi as a dictator to which the GOP presidential candidate answered, I think its a statement of fact. Pences remarks are in strong contrast to former president Trump, who described Xi as top of the line and a brilliant man in an interview with former Fox News host Tucker Carlson earlier this year.

Pence said that theres no more effective way to send a deafening message to communist China to check their military ambitions in the Asia Pacific than supplying Ukraine with what it needs to end Russias invasion of the country.

I guarantee you President Xi is watching whats happening in Ukraine very carefully, Pence said. We give the Ukrainians, much more quickly than Joe Bidens doing now, we give them what they need to win this fight to repel the Russian invasion

He also dodged a question that asked if he would commit to sending troops to Taiwan in the case of a Chinese invasion, adding that there is no advantage to say what you would or wouldnt do.

The United States of America should continue to be providing  Taiwan with the military means to defend themselves, he added. What we want is a policy of deterrence.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
In an interview on Saturday with "Face the Nation," former Vice President Mike Pence said that there was "no pressure involved" in former President Donald Trump's requests for him to call former Arizona Gov. Doug Ducey in the days and weeks following the 2020 election .

The Washington Post reported Saturday that Trump tried to pressure Ducey, a fellow Republican, after the 2020 election to overturn the election results in his state, which President Biden won by more than 10,000 votes. According to the Post, Trump also urged Pence to call Ducey and prod him to find evidence of voter fraud in Arizona.

Pence confirmed to CBS News that he did call Ducey following the 2020 election to discuss election results.

"I did check in, with not only Gov. Ducey, but other governors and states that were going through the legal process of reviewing their election results," Pence told "Face the Nation" moderator Margaret Brennan. "But there was no pressure involved. Margaret, I was calling to get an update. I passed along that information to the president. It was no more, no less, than that."

When asked if he had been pressured by Trump to push Ducey to change the election results in Arizona, Pence said no.

"No, I don't remember any pressure," Pence said.

"Look, the president and I, things came to a head at the end," he continued. "I did my duty under the Constitution that day in presiding over a joint session of Congress in the aftermath of the mayhem and the rioting. But in the days of November, and December, this was an orderly process. You'll remember there were more than 60 lawsuits underway, states were engaging in appropriate reviews and that these contacts were no more than that."

When asked if Trump had pressured him to exert influence over any state governor, Pence once again said no.

"The president expressed his strong belief that I had authority that I did not have under the Constitution in the closing days," said Pence, referring to Trump's private and public pressure on Pence to overturn the results of the 2020 presidential election during the joint session of Congress on Jan. 6, 2021.

"But [in November and December 2020]," Pence said, "this was about information gathering, finding out what was going on."

In April, Pence testified for over seven hours before a federal grand jury investigating Trump's efforts to overturn the 2020 election. Pence's testimony came after a three-judge panel ruled that he was required to provide testimony despite Pence's attempt to resist the subpoena by claiming he was protected by the "speech or debate clause" of the Constitution.

Special counsel Jack Smith is leading the investigation into Trump's attempts to overturn the 2020 election results . Smith's team is also leading the federal investigation into Trump's handling of classified documents. In June, a federal grand jury in Miami indicted Trump on 37 counts related to the sensitive documents recovered at his Florida residence, Mar-a-Lago. Trump pleaded not guilty to all charges.

Full interview: Former Vice President Mike Pence on "Face the Nation"

Pence says "I don't remember any pressure" from Trump on state governors after 2020 election

Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg says changes needed to manage airspace "more efficiently"
Former Vice President Mike Pence said Sunday that he does not believe racial inequality exists in the United States school system when asked to weigh in on the Supreme Courts recent ruling that upended affirmative action in college admissions.

When discussing the recent Supreme Court decision on affirmative action, CBSs Margaret Brennan asked Pence on Face the Nation whether he believes racial inequality exists in the system. The GOP presidential candidate answered that while he believes racial inequality existed at one point, it no longer does.

I really dont believe there is. I believe there was, he responded. I mean, its  there may have been a time when affirmative action was necessary simply to open the doors of all of our schools and universities, but I think that time has passed.

The court invalidated Harvards and University of North Carolina at Chapel Hills (UNC) admissions practices by ruling last week that they did not comply with the 14th Amendments guarantee of equal protection. Pence argued that this ruling proves that race-based admissions are no longer needed because higher education universities have opened their doors to minority students, adding that it is a tribute to our nation.

I really do believe that we can move forward as a country and embrace the notion that were all going to be judged not on the color of our skin, but on the content of our character, and in this case, on our GPA, he said.

I really believe that the accomplishments of Americas students, particularly our minority students, the great achievements that  that African Americans have  have reached in this country on that educational foundation, I think tells us that  that weve opened those doors and minority students on our campuses have excelled and Im confident those doors will remain open, Pence added. And well continue to move forward as a colorblind society, which is really, the aspiration I believe of every American.

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Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, July 2)  The Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator (POGO) in Las Pinas City that was raided last week wants the police to allow the medical treatment for at least 13 foreign workers who were taken into custody during the June 27 operations.

In a letter dated July 1, the Vargas Law Office, which is representing Xinchuang Network Technologies, said that they received reports that the foreign workers were injured during a commotion last June 29 while under police custody.

The demand letter was addressed to National Capital Region Police Office chief PMGen. Edgar Okubo, Philippine National Police Anti-Cybercrime Group (PNP-ACG) director PBGen. Sidney Herrera, and PNP Directorate for Intelligence PMGen. Jon Arnaldo.

"This refers to the incident that occurred during the wee hours in the morning of 29 June 2023 wherein 13 or so foreign nationals, under your custody and detention inside the compound of Xinchuan Technologies, Inc., were injured during a commotion that ended in serious physical injuries to at least three of them as a result of the severe mauling by your police officers on the ground," lawyer Ananias Christian Vargas said.

He added that they expect immediate action as it could be a matter of life and death.

Vargas also said they received reports that one of the detained foreigners is suffering from a gunshot wound which needs to be examined by a physician.

"We seriously condemn this exhibition of police brutality against these unarmed foreign nationals, and declare that the use of force is not commensurate with the necessity to prevent escape, as you claim in your press statement," the lawyer said.

He also said they condemn the police officers continued refusal to allow the entry of an ambulance to transport the seriously injured POGO workers to the nearest treatment facility.

RELATED: POGO hub calls for impartial probe into workers' rescue

Vargas believes that the refusal stemmed from higher authorities in the PNP.

PNP Public Affairs Office chief PBGen. Redrico Maranan vehemently denied the accusations.

As a matter of policy, in every police operation, observance of human rights is paramount. Hence, Human Rights Affairs desks are put up, manned by human rights affairs officers to ensure that the basic rights of the rescued victims are respected and protected at all times, Maranan said.

Rest assured that the PNPs aggressive and honest law enforcement operations are at all times conforming with the rule of law, he added.

Maranan also said that more than 1,500 of the 2,700 rescued POGO workers were already released even as foreigners remain in the area as they are still being processed in coordination with the Bureau of Immigration.

We would also like to clarify that these rescued victims are being processed to get their personal profiles, travel history, and status for documentation purposes prior to turning over to their respective embassies, he added.

Maranan said the foreigners are being assisted by their respective embassy officials and that personnel from the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) are in the area to assist all those rescued.

On June 29, the PNP-ACG reported that 13 foreign workerseight of them needing immediate medical attentionwere injured while 48 POGO workers were trying to escape

The foreigners allegedly climbed a high fence, and the police said this was the reason why they were injured.

The PNP said the Las Pinas operations are part of the anti-human trafficking in relation to violation of Cybercrime Prevention Act.

It also said that it filed criminal complaints against five Chinese nationals before the Department of Justice in relation to the raid of seven POGO firms in Las Pinas City early this week.

Maranan said these involved human trafficking and violations of the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012.

He also stressed that the police operation was legitimate and was carried out on orders of a competent court, following allegations of human rights violations against Xinhuang Network Technologies.

The raid resulted in the rescue of more than 2,700 workers, around 1,500 of them Filipinos while the rest are foreigners mostly from countries in Southeast Asia and the Middle East.

Four fugitives from Mainland China were also found in Xinchuang Network Technologies. On Sunday, the PNP-ACG said they will be turned over to the Chinese embassy for deportation this week.
The Pennsylvania Inspector General charged 52 people with public assistance fraud in May 2023.

According to a news release, the restitution owed to the state in all of the cases totaled $347,497.

It is imperative that we fulfill our duty to the citizens of Pennsylvania by ensuring the proper allocation of public benefits, said State Inspector General Lucas M. Miller. We are fortunate to partner with the Department of Human Services (DHS) to uphold the integrity of these programs and preserve the publics confidence in assistance programs.

All 52 people are facing felony fraud charges. A news release said they misrepresented themselves and fraudulently received taxpayer-funded benefits.

If they are convicted, the maximum penalty is seven years in prison and a $15,000 fine.

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The Pentagons must-pass policy bill has been signed into law each year for six decades. House Democrats are worried Kevin McCarthy is about to muck it up.

The $886 billion National Defense Authorization Act could be where McCarthy makes his next concessions to conservative Republicans, letting them load up the bill with provisions that strip Biden-era personnel policies out of the military. But those provisions also run the risk of driving away Democrats whose support will be crucial to the legislation surviving a vote in a closely divided House.

GOP leadership is getting pushed, and its not even by the majority of Republicans, its the extreme far-right MAGA extremists who are pushing for their narrow-minded agenda in the bill, and theyre trying to find the right balance, said Rep. Adam Smith (D-Wash.), the top Democrat on the House Armed Services Committee.

Committee members from both parties locked arms in a blowout 58-1 vote last week to send the bill to the House floor, despite the inclusion of Republican-authored language to repeal the Pentagons chief diversity officer post, block funding for drag shows on military bases and create a special watchdog for Ukraine assistance.



Passing any bill in the House is tricky because of Republicans thin majority. Lawmakers on McCarthys far-right flank are pushing to use floor amendments to go even further to rein in Pentagon policies on diversity and climate change they contend distract the military from its main mission. McCarthy is still working to lower tensions with those conservatives who opposed his debt limit deal with President Joe Biden. But the more Republicans needle Biden through amendments, the less bipartisan support theres likely to be for the bill.

The dilemma underscores the balance GOP leaders must strike between lawmakers on their right, many of whom rarely vote for the defense bill, and the Democrats theyll ultimately need for any bill to become law. The bill must eventually pass a Democratic-led Senate and win Bidens signature.

Theres no question we can win if it goes to a vote on the bill in its current form, Smith said. Its a question of how Kevin McCarthy wants to handle it.

House Armed Services Chair Rep. Mike Rogers (R-Ala.) had a similar warning about overloading the bill with conservative priorities. Republicans narrow majority will test this idea that all the conservative stuff that people like me would like to see in the bill can get on there, he said.

"This idea that one party, particularly in divided government, can run over the other party  it's just not realistic, he said.

A partisan brawl is looming on the House floor, though, over Pentagon policies to cover travel costs and allow leave for troops seeking abortions. Republicans want to block it, but doing so would likely turn many Democrats against the defense bill.

More conservative proposals are piling up ahead of floor debate the week of July 10. Republicans have already filed a variety of proposals that restrict diversity and inclusion programs, limit punishment for troops who refused to take the Covid-19 vaccine, and roll back aid for Ukraine.

Another wildcard is the new conservative bloc on the House Rules Committee, which determines which of the new amendments will receive floor votes. McCarthy gave spots on the influential panel to three conservatives  Reps. Thomas Massie (R-Ky.), Chip Roy (R-Texas) and Ralph Norman (R-S.C.)  as part of his deal to secure the speakership. All three have typically voted against the Pentagons annual authorization bill.

Hundreds of amendments will likely be sent to the floor, and the new rightward tilt to the panel could mean more conservative proposals make the cut.

I've had some members talk to me about bringing amendments, and I told them we have a whole new construct, Rogers said. Nobody knows how it's gonna play out."

Roy, a critic of increased defense spending, said he wants tough language in the bill curtailing diversity efforts, the Pentagons abortion travel policy and decades-old war authorizations.

"The NDAA is going to need to have some serious amendments if you're going to want to get that thing moving, Roy said. I'm just not all that confident currently that we're addressing the kinds of things that we need to address."

Not everyone on the right agrees. Rep. Matt Gaetz (R-Fla.), who doesnt always vote for the bill, said hes as enthusiastic about this NDAA as I've been in my seven years here. He is using several wins in the bill to attract conservative votes.

Gaetz, who opposed McCarthys bid for the speakership, played a prominent role in the Armed Services Committees markup of the defense bill last week. He and other Republicans won votes on amendments to rein in diversity initiatives, climate change programs, drag shows on military bases and critical race theory.

I'm working hard to convince House conservatives to support this NDAA, Gaetz said in an interview. There's a lot to love. We are ending critical race theory in the military. Weve taken a hatchet to the very harmful [diversity, equity and inclusion] initiatives that have emerged in very strange iterations. And we're meeting the nation's defense needs.



Rep. Tim Burchett of Tennessee, who voted against the last defense bill, said Republican leaders should push hard to pass the policies that Gaetz and other conservatives have championed, along with similar proposals.

It's important that they have a seat at the table and not just lip service because I think they share the views of a lot of people, in my district anyway, Burchett said.

Even when they were in the minority, though, Republicans supplied more votes for a compromise defense bill last year than Democrats. The narrow margin in the previous Congress gave Republicans leverage to include their priorities in the authorization bill  or keep some of Democrats priorities out. GOP negotiators saw some major wins, including a provision to repeal the Biden administrations vaccine mandate for troops.

Rogers, who is pushing to pass his first defense bill as Armed Services chair, carries a printout list of the 80 lawmakers who voted against the compromise bill last year. Of those, 35 were Republicans, a reminder that a portion of his party wont support the bill regardless of GOP policy wins.

"You could have a cure for cancer in that bill, and they wouldn't vote for it," Rogers said.

Democrats worry that if the Republicans use amendments to target even more of Bidens personnel policies, theyll have to vote against the legislation, in spite of all the defense policies in the bill that they support. Republicans argue diversity and anti-extremism policies are hamstringing recruitment, yet Democrats contend those measures keep recruiting strong at a time the military cant spare anyone.

Rep. Jennifer McClellan (D-Va.) touted her provisions to expand mental health care and child care reimbursements in the defense bill, but warned more Republican-friendly measures on personnel issues would flip her to a no.

If it is loaded down with amendments that restrict access to reproductive health care and that demonize our LGBTQ service members, if its loaded down with those amendments, it will be hard for me to vote for it, McClellan said.

Theres a potential cautionary tale in separate Pentagon spending legislation that veered hard to the right and has run into trouble in the House. Democrats are uniformly opposing the GOP defense appropriations bill, which includes conservative riders blocking abortion services, transgender medical care, diversity initiatives, climate change programs and critical race theory. There was a party-line vote in committee that guarantees the bill will struggle on the House floor.

In the authorization bill, while there are some clear dealbreakers such as abortion, House Democrats havent yet drawn their red lines on other issues. But theyre confident the dynamics of the House give them leverage over what is included in the Pentagon bill.

I think its going to be really difficult when we get to the floor, Smith said. The odds of getting a bill on the floor that Chip Roys going to vote for and any Democrats going to vote for are pretty remote, and theyre going to have to figure out that calculation.
Travelers are seen ahead of the Fourth of July holiday weekend at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (AFP via Getty Images)

US Transport Secretary Pete Buttigieg has blamed thousands of flight delays and cancellations over the Fourth of July holiday weekend on the weather.

More than 1,322 flights were cancelled and 89,500 delayed this weekend, according to monitoring site, FlightAware. Thats on top of the 24,000 flights delayed and 5,600 cancelled between Monday and Wednesday. On Thursday, the busiest travel day, 770 flights were cancelled and 31,413 delayed.

[Flight delays and cancellations] really shot up at the first part of the week, largely because of severe weather hitting some of our key hubs, Mr Buttigieg told CBS.

I think most passengers understand that no one can control the weather, but anything thats under the control of the airlines and anything that we can do on the FAA side, we need to continue pushing to make sure that theres the smoothest possible experience for air passengers everywhere.

While large parts of the country were battling stormy conditions and smoke from Canadian wildfires, some airline executives also pointed to staffing shortages at the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

United Airlines CEO Scott Kirby made it clear where he was placing blame, reported by Travel + Leisure magazine.

"The FAA frankly failed us this weekend, he wrote, blaming the the agency for "staffing issues and their ability to manage traffic".

Mr Kirby added that the "FAA reduced the arrival rates by 40 per cent and departure rates by 75 per cent," and that those reductions were "certainly a reflection of understaffing/lower experience at the FAA."

"It led to massive delays, cancellations, diversions, as well as crews and aircraft out of position," he wrote. "That put everyone behind the eight ball when weather actually did hit on Sunday and was further compounded by FAA staffing shortages Sunday evening."

"Why does it seem so chaotic?" @margbrennan asks Transportation @SecretaryPete of the ongoing airline disruptions.



Buttigieg says severe weather ahead of the holiday weekend "put enormous pressure on the system," but says "the overall picture" shows "a lot of improvements." pic.twitter.com/t9gQHbvq6p  Face The Nation (@FaceTheNation) July 2, 2023

Mr Kirby was later forced to apologise when it emerged that he took a private jet out of New York this week while United customers were stranded at airports across the country.

Even stranded passengers turned their furor toward the FAA.

This is not all Deltas fault, said Sonia Hendrix who was stranded for four days while trying to fly home from Colorado to New York. She spent one night in Atlanta and two in Orlando due to delays and cancellations.

Their pilots and flight crews were working very hard," she told the Associated Press.

"I blame the FAA. I blame Buttigieg for sitting on his hands and not staffing up air traffic control centers sooner.

stranded in houston. for days possibly. i think people are not appreciating the full extent of the air travel catastrophe thats happening right now. ive never seen anything like it. its just completely broken, and nobody knows how or when it will turn around.  Mike Solana (@micsolana) June 29, 2023

One traveler, flying to visit family to celebrate Eid, explained on Twitter that her flight was delayed for days, then cancelled, ruining her holiday plans.

My @JetBlue flight was delayed by TWO DAYS so not only did i miss celebrating Eid with my family, but im also missing the wedding im flying out for hahahahha im gonna cry, she wrote.

Another video posted online showed a United Airlines pilot apologising to stranded travelers and saying that his co-pilot was held up due to scheduling issues.

my @JetBlue flight was delayed by TWO DAYS so not only did i miss celebrating Eid with my family, but im also missing the wedding im flying out for hahahahha im gonna cry  stargirl (@sammiiiaaa) June 30, 2023

My flight is delayed to Dallas but shoutout to this Captain on flight UA2446 for coming out from the gate and apologizing for the delay since his Co-pilot is delayed due to scheduling, the Twitter user wrote.

Kindness goes along way and this guy gets it.

Secretary Buttigieg has previously said that the "summer is going to be a stress test on the system," referring to FAA's ability to maintain the nation's air travel logistics.

My flight is delayed to Dallas but shoutout to this Captain on flight UA2446 for coming out from the gate and apologizing for the delay since his Co-pilot is delayed due to scheduling. @united Kindness goes along way and this guy gets it. #Unitedairlines pic.twitter.com/W5E4XOrr5v  Jojoy Varghese (@_iamjojoy) June 30, 2023

Fourth of July weekend is the pinnacle of that test with record numbers of air and road travelers in recent days, according to AAA data.

Weve never projected travel numbers this high for Independence Day weekend, Paula Twidale, senior vice president of AAA Travel, told NBC News.

Despite fewer available flights and higher ticket prices, she said, consumers are not cutting back on travel this summer.
Pete Buttigieg and Ron DeSantis

Out U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg took Republican Gov. Ron DeSantis to task Sunday morning for the GOP presidential hopefuls anti-LGBTQ+ ad against former President Donald Trump.

The ad, which mocks Trump over his supposed pro-LGBTQ+ stances, has been roundly criticized, especially for parts used from a speech Trump gave after the massacre at Pulse nightclub left 49 people, mostly LGBTQ+, dead. It also tried to depict DeSantis as strong with the use of shirtless bodybuilders, including Patrick Bateman (played by Christian Bale) from American Psycho.

To wrap up Pride Month, lets hear from the politician who did more than any other Republican to celebrate it, reads the DeSantis tweet captioning the advertisement.

In an interview with CNNs State of the Union with Dana Bash, Buttigieg condemned the ad.

Im going to leave aside the strangeness of trying to prove your manhood by putting up a video that splices images of you in between oiled up shirtless bodybuilders. And just get to the bigger issue that that is on my mind whenever I see this stuff in the policy space  which is, again, who are you trying to help? Buttigieg said Who are you trying to make better off? And what public policy problems do you get up in the morning thinking about how to solve?

Even the Log Cabin Republicans, the countrys largest LGBTQ+ Republican group, called out the ad.

Speaking with Bash, Buttigieg referenced trips hes made in support of infrastructure initiatives to Kentucky and North Dakota and compared them to the ad, saying that its working on those sorts of issues and projects that led him and others to pursue work in the administration.

Buttigieg said, These are the kinds of problems that most of us got into government, politics, and public service in order to work on, and I just dont understand the mentality of somebody who gets up in the morning thinking that hes going to prove his worth by competing over who can make life hardest for a hard-hit community that is already so vulnerable in America.

 (@)

Its not the first time Buttigieg has called out the Florida governor. He did so plenty of times since DeSantis signed the states dont say gay law in 2022.

In an interview earlier this month, Buttigieg said he couldnt reach DeSantis to discuss Department of Transportation issues in Florida with him.

Ive never heard from this governor, and its not because Ive never called him. Weve never spoken. What I will say is weve done a lot of good work with the Florida Department of Transportation, Buttigieg told Time. We try to work around and through all that to just get stuff done. A huge amount of energy and effort is being wasted in these dumb fights. And thats really unfortunate. Its policy waste in order to achieve political benefit or perceived political benefit.
Lowell Elementary School plans to install an electronic reader board near the remodeled 15th Street entrance, but neighbors are pushing back, saying the modern sign would not be compatible with South Hills historical aesthetic.

Neighbors received a letter June 19 from Principal Sarah Walker announcing the news of the electronic reader board.

The historic aesthetic of our old entrance is beautiful, and while we want to continue to honor it as a central feature of our school, it isnt accessible to all members of our community and doesnt allow our facility to meet our values and standards to be inclusive, the letter read. To help our community navigate our campus and find the new main entrance, we will be installing a new reader board.

Bellingham Public Schools plans to install electronic reader boards at all its schools. The cost is approximately $70,000 each is funded by the school construction bond, which was approved by voters in February 2018.

The planned reader board for Lowell Elementary will be 8 feet tall and display content about events, important upcoming dates and school-related activities from 7 a.m. to 6p.m. It will be designed to reflect the character of the neighborhood and the school, according to Bellingham Public Schools spokeswoman Dana Smith.

The school received many requests over the years to update its signage for quick and clear communication, she said.

We are considering all feedback were receiving regarding this project and we appreciate the opportunity to engage with the Lowell community, both the neighborhood and the families that the school serves, Smith said in an email to the Bellingham Herald.

Static images will be shown for a minimum of five seconds. The brightness of the sign is determined by city code mandates and automatically dims after dark.

Smith said the school district is still discussing when construction will start for the electronic reader board.

Pushback from neighbors

Michael Chrzastowski, a board member of the South Hill Neighborhood Association, said he felt blindsided by the news of the electronic reader board.

There was no inclusion of the neighborhood association in the planning. That hurts because our neighborhood association donates money to Lowell school to help our students, he said.

Chrzastowski said an electronic reader board is not compatible with the character of the South Hill neighborhood. There are a few homes within a block of Lowell Elementary that have Victorian architecture.

Theres nothing in the design of what theyre proposing to build to even suggest any kind of attribute or reflection of this late Victorian architecture of the neighborhood, he said.

Judy Peck, a resident of South Hill, said it is inappropriate to put up an electronic reader board in a historic neighborhood.

This is a dense residential hillside [neighborhood], she said. This isnt a big school with a huge expansive lawn in front of it. Houses are close to the road, close to the street and the homes that are across the street are all very beautiful historic homes that look west toward the water, essentially over the school.

Peck said in response to the news, she sent an email to 43 of her neighbors, Walker and superintendent of Bellingham Public Schools Greg Baker, expressing the opinion that there should not be an electronic reader board outside the school.

And Chrzastowski said residents are currently gathering signatures on a petition, which states those who sign it are are against the project. It will be submitted to the city and school board.

Chrzastowski said residents are not against a new, non-electric sign. They are simply against an electric one, which would not fit the character of the neighborhood that has no commercial lighting and minimal street lights.

If the school board absolutely wants to build a sign at the entrance to Lowell school, as long as its not this LED display board, we would be 100% on board, he said.
Plans for Prince Andrew to move into Harry and Meghans former home quietly shelved

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle officially moved out of Frogmore Cottage this year (Reuters)

A plan to move Prince Andrew into Prince Harry and Meghan Markles former home has been quietly shelved amid his ex-wifes cancer battle.

The shafting has reportedly been in the works since King Charles succeeded last year and would involve his brother moving from Royal Lodge to the more modest Frogmore Cottage, which are both on the Windsor Estate.

However, the diagnosis of his former spouse Sarah Ferguson with breast cancer last month has now put any plans on hold as she recovers from major surgery at the house.

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex relocated to the US in 2020 (Matt Dunham/PA) (PA Archive)

The Duke of York lives at the 30-room property with his ex-wife, despite the pair divorcing in 1996.

A palace insider told MailOnline that any plans for the contentious move to go ahead soon have been quietly shelved while the duchess recovers.

The former royal, 63, underwent a single mastectomy after a routine mammogram detected a shadow on one of her breasts.

Prince Andrew signed a 75-year lease on the 30million property in 2003 which he is believed to want to honour.

It was reported last month that the Duke of York was refusing to leave the palatial home while it undergoes building works due to his concern that he could be evicted before he returns.

Prince Andrew was reportedly asked to move into Frogmore Cottage, where Harry and Meghan used to live (Alamy Stock Photo)

The lease was undertaken with the Crown Estate in Prince Andrews name for a 1m one-off payment in 2003.

He carried out refurbishments at his own expense and is believed to have spent around 7m renovating the property.

Prince Harry and Meghan were given notice to vacate their five-bedroom home days after his autobiography was released in January. They officially moved out earlier in the summer.

Since the pair relocated to the US in 2020, the house has at times been occupied by Prince Andrews daughter Princess Eugenie, her husband Jack Brooksbank and their two children.

Sarah Ferguson lives with her ex-husband Prince Andrew at Royal Lodge (EPA)

There have also been suggestions Prince William has his eye on Royal Lodge, which spans 98 acres, in a bid to keep a home that will reflect his new role, according to the Daily Mail.

The Prince and Princess of Wales and their three children currently live in Adelaide Cottage, which is also on the Windsor Estate, but reportedly find the four-bedroom cottage very cramped.

Royal Lodge in Windsor has a huge 30 rooms (Rex features)

The young family moved to Windsor from London just weeks before the Queens death in 2022.

Prince Andrew moved into Royal Lodge after the death of the Queen Mother in 2002, who was its previous tenant for more than 50 years.

The duke stepped down as a working royal in 2019 over his alleged ties and friendship with convicted paedophile Jeffrey Epstein.
Dictator Putin admitted that the Kremlin regime finances Wagner's PMC, but underestimated this amount by a factor of ten

PMC Wagner Group has received over RUB 858 billion ($9.755 billion) in Russian budget funds May 2022 through May 2023 within the signed contracts, Russian propagandist and Vesti Nedeli TV program host on Russia 1 TV, Dmitriy Kiselyov, said on July 2.

The Concord company group, owned by the family of Prigozhin, has received another RUB 845 billion ($9.607 billion) from the Russian budget.

Read also: Prigozhin's rebellion could have split Russia into two, Ukraines spy chief says

"Founded by Yevgeny Prigozhin, PMC Wagner received just over RUB 858 billion within contracts with the state. That's close to a trillion," Russian RIA Novosti quoted Kiselyov as saying on Telegram.

"Under other contracts, Prigozhin's Concord holding provided services (to the state) worth RUB 845 billion. This does not mean that they have earned that much, but it still shows the scale of the business and the scope of their ambitions."

Therefore, he brought to light another Russian dictator Vladimir Putin's piece of lie, who admitted that the Kremlin funded mercenaries, however lowering the sum tenfold.

Read also: Wagner rebels enter Moscow Oblast, heading for Russian capital

Putin said during a meeting with military officials on June 27 that PMC Wagner is fully funded by the Russian state. Wagner mercenaries received for the said yearly period over RUB 86 billion (over $978 million), including RUB 70 billion ($820 million) for fighters' needs and RUB 15 billion ($180 million) for "incentive payments." Another RUB 110 billion ($1.3 billion) took so-called "insurance payments."

Prigozhin announced the beginning of an armed conflict with the Russian Defense Ministry on the evening of June 23, claiming that he wanted to "restore justice" in Russia.

He said that the Russian army struck the mercenaries "rear camp." However, a conflict between Prigozhin and Russian Defense Minister Sergey Shoigu had started months earlier.

For the past few months, the Wagner leader has been persistently demanding the resignation of the Russian defense minister, accusing him of poor management of the Russian armed forces and of not supplying enough ammunition to Wagner forces.

On June 24, Wagner forces seized control over the main military facilities in the cities of Rostov-on-Don and Voronezh. They also shot down seven Russian Air Force aircraft.

The FSB charged Prigozhin with "inciting insurrection," while the security forces were preparing to defend Moscow. Putin is believed to have fled the capital, perhaps to his residence in Valdai, northwest of Moscow.

Read also: What happened between Putin and Prigozhin

Belarusian dictator Alexander Lukashenko held talks with Prigozhin as his mercenaries closed in on Moscow, Lukashenkos press office stated, culminating in a deal where Prigozhin agreed to halt his forces advance on the Russian capital  in exchange for dropping charges and changes at the Russian Ministry of Defense.

Soon after, Prigozhin ordered Wagner mercenaries to turn back from Moscow and return to their combat positions.

Reportedly, according to the terms of the deal struck between Prigozhin and Putin, the mercenary leader is meant to decamp to Belarus for the time being.

Prigozhin's jet has been spotted twice in Belarus since then.

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Police find abandoned car with weapons, drugs after fight ends in gunfire

DeKalb County police arrested one person and seized weapons and drugs on Wednesday in an abandoned car following a fight between two people that ended in gunfire.

On June 28, Tucker precinct officers responded to shots fired call near 1200 To Lani Path.

While responding to the call, officers saw a Dodge Challenger speeding away from the scene.

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The driver drove into a dead-end road and ran away from the car on foot.

Officers also found a crashed Hyundai Sonata on To Lani Path that had been shot several times.

Police say it appears that two people got into an argument that ended in gunfire.

With the assistance of K-9 officers, police located two rifles and arrested one suspect.

A search of the abandoned Challenger led to the seizure of approximately 87.6 grams of fentanyl, 1.2 grams of cocaine, 1.1 grams of methamphetamine, and 7.2 grams of marijuana.

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Police on Sunday identified a pedestrian who was struck and killed in Newburyport last weekend.

Mercy Kimani, 41, of Newburyport, was struck and killed by a motor vehicle on Saturday, June 24 in the area of Port Plaza, police said.

We extend our deepest condolences to the family and friends of Mercy and all those involved in the handling of such a tragic incident, said Newburyport City Marshal Mark Murray in a statement on Sunday afternoon.

Next of kin have been notified, police said.

The ongoing investigation into Kimanis death is being conducted by Massachusetts State Police assigned to the Essex County District Attorneys Office and the Newburyport Police Department.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available.

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Former Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said he believes Russian President Vladimir Putin saw Yevgeny Prigozhin as a threat to his power, potentially giving the Wagner Group leader a reason to go against him.

Prigozhin pulled his Wagner Group mercenaries out of the frontline in Ukraine in June and marched them towards Moscow, pledging to take down Russian military leadership. After negotiations, he instead went to Belarus.

I think Putin was being told by his senior military leaders  General Gerasimov and Minister of Defense Shoigu  that Prigozhin was getting too big for his britches, Pompeo said Sunday in an interview with radio talk show host John Catsimatidis on WABC 770 AMs Cats Roundtable.

And I think they were beginning to push back on and constrain him, he added. He didnt like that.

While many of the details of why Prighozhin turned on Moscow and what the future holds for him and Putin are still unknown, Pompeo posited that the Wagner chiefs betrayal will cause a shake up in the Russian oligarchy.

Putin will see that as something that is a bridge too far, Pompeo said.

Much like [Chinese President] Xi Jinping went after the leaders of commercial enterprise that had gotten out too far and he felt threatened his power, Im confident Putin began to think Prigozhin was threatening his, he added.

Pompeo argued that he doesnt believe Putin will allow another person to get as powerful as Prigozhin was, as the head of a global private army with deep ties in the Russian military.

The former Trump administration official also said he is doubtful that Prigozhin can return to his previous place of influence as a close Putin ally.

I wouldnt insure his life, he said. Hes not likely to find grace with Vladimir Putin again. Whether that ends up with him drinking some bad tea or just permanently in exile, its hard to know.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
(CNN)  On June 6, Ukraine suffered an environmental catastrophe. The collapse of the Kakhovka dam in the south of the country sent water thundering downstream, killing more than 100 people according to Ukrainian officials. It wiped out villages, flooded farmland and nature reserves, and swept up pollutants like oil and agricultural chemicals as it made its destructive path towards the Black Sea.

The causes of the collapse have yet to be established  whether it was targeted as part of Russias war in Ukraine, or whether it was a structural failure  but what is certain is that it is one of the biggest ecological disasters Europe has seen in the last few decades.

And Ukraine is calling it ecocide.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky described the collapse as an environmental bomb of mass destruction. High profile figures outside the country have agreed. The Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg, on a visit to Kyiv on Thursday, told reporters that ecocide and environmental destruction is a form of warfare as Ukrainians by this point know all too well, and so does Russia.

The term ecocide may be an unfamiliar one to many, but there has been a long-running fight to get large-scale environmental destruction recognized as an international crime, prosecutable at the International Criminal Court (ICC).

As the world continues to witness ecological disasters that span national borders, criminal accountability is rare, due in part to a lack of proper legislation and investigative process, experts say.

It may take years to fully understand the full scope of the damage caused by the destruction of the Kakhovka dam but some legal and environmental experts believe the unfolding ecological catastrophe will be a turning point for the recognition of ecocide.

This moment, the destruction of the dam, how visible this has been, is perhaps one of those paradigm moments when we do actually see a shift, said Doug Weir from the Conflict and Environment Observatory, a UK-based charity.

What exactly is ecocide?

The push to make ecocide an international crime has been bubbling for decades, but the past 10 years or so have seen a renewed fight, spearheaded by the British lawyer Polly Higgins, who died in 2019. There has been pressure building up around this issue, Weir said.

Until now, international criminal law has focused mainly on crimes committed directly against people, but experts say there has been a gap when it comes to legislation that would target the gravest harms to the environment.

The Deep-Water Horizon oil spill, severe pollution in the Nile Delta and Amazon deforestation, could be examples of ecocide, said Jojo Mehta, co-founder and executive director of Stop Ecocide International.

For years, Indigenous leaders and human rights groups in Brazil have been asking the ICC to investigate the former Brazilian president Jair Bolsonaro for ecocide, over dismantled environmental policies and soaring deforestation.

In 2021, a panel of experts drafted legislation that, if adopted, would add ecocide as the fifth crime the ICC can prosecute, alongside genocide, crimes against humanity, war crimes and the crime of aggression.

The panel defined ecocide as unlawful or wanton acts committed with knowledge that there is a substantial likelihood of severe and either widespread or long-term damage to the environment being caused by those acts.

Philippe Sands, a lawyer with more than 30 years of experience in international law, was part of the panel. The law can make a difference by changing consciousness, he told CNN. While the crimes the ICC prosecutes focus directly on the protection of the human, the gap is the crime to the environment, he said.

Mehta, whose charitable foundation commissioned the independent expert panel, said the idea of legislation wasnt to prosecute every little environmental harm. What ecocide aims at is naming and criminalizing the worst harms to nature, she told CNN.

That is important practically and legally but also symbolically, Mehta said. When you put ecocide alongside genocide, its also about saying that actually, when we destroy ecosystems upon which we essentially depend for our existence, then that is just as bad, wrong, dangerous, serious as destroying people, she said.

As well as forcing accountability, Mehta believes the legislation could help stop environmental crimes being perpetrated in the first place, forcing corporate executives and political leaders to consider the environmental damage their actions may cause.

The whole point of criminal liability is not actually punishment, its prevention, she said. The fact that there is not a crime that says you shouldnt destroy the environment to this degree means that there is implicit permission around it. I mean, you can imagine what will happen if we suddenly decriminalize murder?

What happens next?

The legislation proposed by the panel is yet to be adopted by the more than 120 countries that are parties to the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court, but several countries, including Ukraine, have already adopted ecocide as a crime under domestic law.

A number of others have debated doing the same, including Brazil, Canada, Kenya, the Maldives and the UK, according to Stop Ecocide International.

As the campaign to recognize the crime of ecocide gains pace around the world, however, some experts believe its adoption by the ICC is inevitable. It is not a question of whether ecocide will become part of international criminal law, its only a question of when, Sands said.

There are sticking points, though.

The fact that ecocide would not just apply in conflicts could be an obstacle, Weir said. It also applies in peacetime, and its also potentially targeting corporations, like big oil companies, who may well be committing ecocide through their actions, said Weir. There are a number of countries that may fear how far it could go, or what it could constrain, he added.

Others say the issue has not been among the ICCs priorities and that, in general, political will is lacking.

A spokesperson for the ICC told CNN that the Office of the Prosecutor continues to focus on the implementation of its mandate to investigate and prosecute the core crimes within the Courts jurisdiction and that such investigations and prosecutions may also address acts intended to destroy or harm the environment.

Many experts still believe that the recognition of ecocide as a separate crime at the ICC is needed to provide the tools to hold people accountable, and also to act as a deterrent.

This is about us, we have to be working on finding these tools, as climate change and environmental issues, these are not just issues for one country, said Anna Ackerman, policy analyst at the International Institute for Sustainable Development, who also works with Ukrainian and European NGOs on green reconstruction in Ukraine.

Ukraine calculates the damage

In southern Ukraine, officials and non-profits are still trying to figure out the extent of the ecological catastrophe resulting from the dam collapse.

The flooding has already had far-reaching impacts. Authorities in the city of Mykolaiv have warned residents not to drink tap water, go swimming or fish after contaminants, including Cholera-like vibrio bacteria, were detected in the water.

The once picturesque coastline of the city of Odesa has turned into a garbage dump and animal cemetery, Ukrainian authorities have said. Nearly 3,000 people have been evacuated from the Kherson and Mykolaiv regions.

There are also fears more environmental disasters could follow. The biggest nuclear plant in Europe, the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant in southern Ukraine, is currently under Russian control and could cause an ecological catastrophe if it were damaged, Weir said.

Ukraines Prosecutor General has opened an investigation into the dam collapse and an investigative team from the ICC has visited the area to investigate, the court has confirmed. A working group, including Thunberg, has also been established to draw attention to the environmental impact of war.

If ecocide were an international crime, it could give the process more authority, some experts say.

It is important to add ecocide as a crime, in the case of Ukraine, so that Russia can pay for some of the damages, even if money alone will always remain inadequate, Ackerman said.

You cant put a price tag on the damage that has and will result from the extinction of various species, deforestation or air and water pollution, she said. How do you calculate that?

This story was first published on CNN.com. "Greta Thunberg has accused Russia of ecocide in Ukraine. But what does that mean?"
On today's episode of the 5 Things podcast: With COVID-19 quarantines in the rearview, grade school students are now meeting in classrooms in person after years spent learning at home. USA TODAY reporters observed classrooms in California and Virginia to see how students, teachers, admin staff and parents are coping.

We asked, "Are we back to normal yet?" The answer is no. The reporting team found new challenges on top of old ones. Veteran teachers are worrying that students may never catch up.

USA TODAY Education Reporter Alia Wong hosts.

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.

Daisy Andonyadis:

Your first word I want you to spell is strengthened. Strengthened.

Alia Wong:

With the national emergency lifted and the COVID-19 pandemic in rear view, we zoomed in on schools across America to find out how schools are coping.

Daisy Andonyadis:

Once you're ready, give me a thumbs up.

Alia Wong:

We asked, "Are we back to normal yet?" The answer, in short, is no.

USA Today journalists found new challenges on top of the old ones. Veteran educators tell us they're scared that students may never catch up.

I'm Alia Wong, an education reporter for USA Today. Welcome to a special episode of Five Things. Let us know what you think of this story by sending us a note at podcast@usatoday.com.

Daisy Andonyadis:

You ready? I read it first, then you follow. Toughen.

Students:

Toughen.

Daisy Andonyadis:

Transported.

Students:

Transported.

Daisy Andonyadis:

Strengthened.

Students:

Strengthened.

Daisy Andonyadis:

Foretelling.

Students:

Foretelling.

Daisy Andonyadis:

Loosening.

Students:

Loosening.

Alia Wong:

The lesson today isn't just about spelling. It's also about learning words that capture the intensity of the last several years.

Daisy Andonyadis:

Transplanted.

Students:

Transplanted.

Daisy Andonyadis:

And sharpening.

Students:

And sharpening.

Alia Wong:

The aftershocks of the pandemic keep coming. Teachers, principals, parents, and children are all still navigating the disruptions to education. It's the fourth school year warped by COVID-19. These third-graders learning how to spell are living it.

Daisy Andonyadis:

Now that we've practiced reading them, are you ready to spell?

Students:

Yes.

Daisy Andonyadis:

All right. I don't know if you're ready for this.

Alia Wong:

Kayla Jimenez and I spent nearly a year visiting classrooms in Virginia and California. We wanted to report how this year, the one that should have felt most like the before times, actually went.

We found that the ground lost during the years of virtual learning has had a significant cost. Scores of students are still testing well below grade level. Absences are a major issue, too.

Daisy Andonyadis:

Actually, now it's at my desk everyone else is [inaudible 00:02:10].

Alia Wong:

Even when they do make it to class, the psychological, emotional, and social impacts of the last few years have taken their toll. Two big problems: concentration and patience.

Daisy Andonyadis:

We're going to skip this one now, but then you're going to go to the next one where it says the picture of the mug and what you were going [inaudible 00:02:31].

Alia Wong:

I followed Ashley Soto for several months. She just finished third grade at an elementary school in Alexandria, Virginia.

Ashley Soto:

Ms. A, that was a very long word.

Daisy Andonyadis:

I'm sorry, Ashley. Welcome to the third grade.

Alia Wong:

That's third grade teacher, Daisy Andonyadis. She got into teaching after researching early childhood development and studying psychology. Ashley, like pretty much everyone, calls her Ms. A.

Daisy Andonyadis:

I think after COVID, it was a lot more not being able to stay in one spot. The virtual really messed up the stamina. You're looking at a computer screen all day. You're not going outside. You're not reading a book. Your eyes are stuck on a computer and I think it has to be short and sweet too, with my kids. If I have them on the carpet for 40 minutes, oh, God bless their souls, they're going to be fidgeting all over the place.

Alia Wong:

In many ways, Ms. A considers herself a therapist first, and a teacher second.

Daisy Andonyadis:

I'm going to be honest, around January is when a lot of things calm down emotionally and socially and then the academics are stronger, but you still teach. I'm not saying we don't teach. I just think you're more heavily focused on the social-emotional piece and once they're able to self-regulate being like, "I'm angry, I want to go ride the bike and get out my anger and then come back," then the academics come easier. If you keep pushing material down them, they are not going to retain them, so it's very important to focus on their emotions first.

Say it, toughened.

Students:

Toughened.

Daisy Andonyadis:

That means to make more tough, yesterday. So, like, "Last year, I had to toughen myself up."

Speaker 3:

[Inaudible 00:04:07] experiences of life toughened a lot of you. During the pandemic you were toughened. We were all toughened a bit because we had to stay home.

Students:

That wasn't in kindergarten.

Speaker 3:

I know, but it's [inaudible 00:04:22]. Who remembers it? Raise your hand if you remember it. Was it fun?

Students:

No. Yes. [inaudible 00:04:31]

Daisy Andonyadis:

No shouting, remember, guys?

Speaker 3:

That was too hype. Way too hype with that. So, bring it back down, but you were toughened.

Alia Wong:

Out over in California, fourth grade teacher, Wendy Gonzalez sees the same issues with her students.

Wendy Gonzalez:

Kindergarten, first grade, second grade where you're supposed to build those social skills, they don't have the social skills. They don't know how to talk to each other. They don't know how to communicate. They're always arguing, yelling, fighting.

Alia Wong:

The longtime teacher has been at Downer Elementary School for the past three years. She says the challenges were already high, even before COVID-19 showed up.

Wendy Gonzalez:

These poor neighborhoods of color, we have the least amount of resources, but we have the highest workloads, and the highest amount of issues and less resources.

Alia Wong:

Quarantine, virtual classes, and COVID-19 restrictions have only exacerbated these challenges.

Wendy Gonzalez:

We have a lot of social-emotional needs with our kids. They're fighting, they're not knowing how to do conflict resolution, how to express themselves. They can't even articulate what they're feeling. They know something's wrong with them, but they can't... Being enclosed at such a young age and not having that social experience at that age affects them as they move on.

There's a lot of stuff that our babies are going through, the violence, the shootings. That's another thing we have to deal with. The social-emotional. We want to start something here, but who's making those decisions? I don't think the teachers are. The decision making's all going to come up from the top, who are hardly ever in the schools. You know what I mean?

Alia Wong:

The issues at play in the neighborhood influence what happens in the classroom, too.

Wendy Gonzalez:

They don't have privacy. They don't have a quiet place to study. They don't have any of that. Housing is through the roof right now and the cost of living for our families, so that's also affecting their social emotional needs.

Alia Wong:

Let's go back to Virginia. According to Ashley's principal, Hasibi Cruz, kids are still adjusting to the norms and expectations of school in person.

Hasibi Cruz:

The hardest part of returning from the pandemic, not coming to school, is stamina, getting up in the morning, getting back into a routine of coming to school.

Alia Wong:

As critical as attendance is, it's hard to get students to show up.

Hasibi Cruz:

Between last year and the year before, we were still doing contact tracing. There was a lot of fear, because we still had to let people know if they had had exposure. Every time one of those emails went out, people would wonder like, "Oh is my kid...," it just raised awareness, and now we're past that, but there's still the fear, and also just stamina of like, we come, we come, we come.

Alia Wong:

That's why Principal Cruz and Ms. A are taking extra steps to help kids like Ashley who struggle with making it to class.

Hasibi Cruz:

Multi-tiered system of support. We have meetings on kiddos, and so she's one that we've had since like kinder, because she was not logged in. She was not getting anything at home. It was so hard to [inaudible 00:07:31]...

Daisy Andonyadis:

Her emotions.

Hasibi Cruz:

She was very emotional. Last year, she was very dysregulated, but she has made it back.

Alia Wong:

MTSS stands for multi-tiered system of supports. It's a model schools use to address issues in and outside the classroom that affect a student's behavior or performance. That can mean home visits or help from a social worker, if a student needs shoes or a screening.

Daisy Andonyadis:

They become bigger and stronger friends. Why do you think that now. Ashley?

Ashley Soto:

Because they're talking more and more, and now she likes...

Alia Wong:

I asked Ashley about her attendance, and you can hear in her reply that she knows it really matters. The adults in her life are reinforcing that.

Ashley Soto:

My mom will drop me off first and then she'll just drop my baby brother off. So first, she'll drop me off where I can have good attendance actually, but good attendance is for me, good, because I don't want to miss things or just I miss the whole day of school, because school goes by really fast to me, so I just want to get there in timing to get better at it, and where I can have play with recess and have lunch and just have fun with my friends more.

Alia Wong:

Ashley is just eight years old, but she's very attuned to the responsibilities on her mom's shoulders.

Why do you think you were maybe having difficulty with attendance earlier in the school year?

Ashley Soto:

I feel like it's because my mom, she sleeps sometimes, but it's not her fault. She has to take care of three children at a time.

Alia Wong:

I spoke with Ashley's mom on the phone.

Ms. Soto:

[foreign language 00:09:33].

Alia Wong:

During the pandemic. She was doing really poorly. It did affect her a lot in many ways because she fell back. She fell behind, and now we've seen a lot of change in all aspects, which I am very grateful to the school, to the teachers who help her daily.

"I don't speak English and in the little that I can help her in matters of school. It's very little, honestly, because as I told you, I don't have, let's say, the knowledge or the understanding to help my daughter."

Her mom says being back in school every day is exactly what Ashley's wanted throughout quarantine.

Ms. A talks specifically about this kind of joy with her students, emphasizing why it's fun to be in class together. Beyond the human interaction itself, Ms. A hypes up the learning software the kids seem to love and reminds them why it matters to show up.

Daisy Andonyadis:

And then slowly build to be like, then because more intrinsic motivation be like, "I want to be here cause my friends are here, and I want to be here to accomplish my goals. Alexia or DreamBox, or just to be here because it's fun."

Rodney La Flore:

All right, just remind y'all, I need to hear everybody's voices. Okay. All right. Eyes up here. Here we go. Ready? The word is join. You're going to say, "Join."

Students:

Join.

Rodney La Flore:

Say it by sounds.

Students:

J-oin.

Rodney La Flore:

Good. Next word, the word is boil. Your turn, say, "Boiled."

Students:

Boiled.

Rodney La Flore:

Say it by sound.

Students:

B...

Alia Wong:

Back to our fourth grade classroom in Richmond, California, teacher Rodney La Flore explains the learning curve his students are experiencing. It's a stark difference to go from online learning at home, to being surrounded by your peers with no option to hit a mute button.

Rodney La Flore:

The Zoom year felt like a totally different teaching experience than teaching in person. I look back at my Zoom year and it feels nothing like what I'm doing now. The behavior management stuff didn't really exist in Zoom. As soon as I could figure out how to mute everybody on Zoom, super easy when I was talking, but obviously what comes with that is no engagement.

There were times during that Zoom year where I had maybe 10 kids, at most, who I could tell were following along and listening, but the rest, black screens. Some kids kept their camera on, but I could see were asleep or doing something else, and then I called on them and they just, no response.

Coming in has been a lot better. Some kids can still be headaches, but I feel a lot more like what I'm doing actually matters. What I'm teaching them, they're learning, and it's just good to have them back.

Alia Wong:

Wendy Gonzalez puts an emphasis on creating a supportive atmosphere.

Wendy Gonzalez:

It's because I care about you that I'm on you, and so that's the kind of classroom that I lead, and the environment in my classroom is you don't laugh at each other. You help each other. We're a community. We're a family. We help each other succeed and if she succeeds, you succeed. When you succeed, he succeeds, so it's more communal because we come from communal people. Our communities are communal.

Alia Wong:

Rodney La Flore agrees, for the most part.

Rodney La Flore:

On the one hand, one kid does something, they're all like, "Yeah!", and it happens often. One kid says something good and they're like, "Yes!," and they're cheering him on and that's great. As it wears me down, I start to get like, "Okay guys, we got to keep going up. We can't cheer for everybody all the time."

Alia Wong:

On top of the entirely new group dynamics that arise with being in person, schools still can't find enough people to fill positions. Many of the people working with students are on edge and fragile themselves.

Wendy Gonzalez:

But yeah, a lot of teachers are done. If they haven't [inaudible 00:13:28] by now.

Daisy Andonyadis:

[inaudible 00:13:29] people leave.

Wendy Gonzalez:

If they haven't done that, they're ready. I've seen a lot of my coworkers from different schools. They are struggling. Even just like, "I need to take a mental health day." Taking stress leave because it's too much. Especially for a lot of our older teachers that weren't used to the technology.

Alia Wong:

Principal Cruz is not only responsible for supporting the teachers in her school. She's also spent this year convincing her students' parents that it's safe to bring their kids in, and that a school nurse can tend to them.

Hasibi Cruz:

I say, "Listen everybody. [foreign language 00:14:02]. For real, in the emergency room, you don't have to go to... If your kiddo has low, if there isn't a fever and their symptoms are not extreme, bring them here, and have her check them and tell you if they need to go home." And they now come and bring them like, "We're unsure. They're saying they're sick, there's no fever, they haven't thrown up, there isn't any of this. Can we bring them?," and so she checks them in the clinic with the parents, talks to the kiddos, and then determines if they're good to go or stay.

Alia Wong:

Despite all the challenges, hardships, and pain, Wendy Gonzalez and all the educators we followed see their work as a calling. What's the future for these kids? Nobody knows, but their teachers are in it for the long haul.

Wendy Gonzalez:

Oh yeah. And I've said it over and over. If I didn't love my community so much, I would be gone. I want to leave this place. For me, it's more of a... It's not about the money, it's not about the titles. It's not. It's more about what am I doing to help out my community?

And for me, it's like a obligation, because of paying back the sacrifices that our parents did for me, our ancestors, our elders that fought for us to be here. Not a job. It's not job. I told the kids, I go, "I don't see this as a job. I don't. It's not like I'm going to work. I'm going to do what I love to do." And I told them, I go, "If you study, if you work hard, you're going to get to do whatever you love to do and it's not going to seem like work."

Alia Wong:

Thanks to Mark Solvel, Alexis Gustin, and Cherie Saunders for their production assistance. Our senior producer is Shannon Ray Green, and our executive producer is Laura Beatty.

Let us know what you think of this episode by sending us a note to podcasts@usatoday.com.

Thanks for listening. I'm Alia Wong. Taylor Wilson will be back tomorrow with another episode of Five Things.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Post-COVID trauma drives elementary schools' challenges: distracted students and stressed teachers
President's Office comments on restoration of water supply after explosion on Kakhovka HPP

The water supply system in Nikopol is still only 30% operational due to the Russians blowing up the Kakhovka Hydroelectric Power Plant (HPP). In the city of Kryvyi Rih, water is supplied hourly, and people are being given bottled water in Kherson Oblast.

Source: Oleksii Kuleba, Deputy Head of the Office of the President of Ukraine, on Telegram

Details: Kuleba has commented on the progress in restoring water supply in Dnipropetrovsk and Kherson oblasts after the Kakhovka HPP dam was blown up, as well as restoring water supply in Donetsk Oblast that was disrupted by attacks.

In Dnipropetrovsk Oblast, centralised water supply to Pokrov has been gradually restored since 2 July. In the coming days, the chlorine levels in the water will be higher than usual, but in a week, the residents will be able to get a stable water supply.

In Nikopol, the water supply system is operating at 30% capacity. Despite the Russian attacks, the entire system is being restored and modernised. It is planned to restore the water supply to all residents within five days.

"There will be water in the taps in Marhanets as well. It will take a little more time as the water supply system is being installed," said Kuleba.

In Kryvyi Rih, water is supplied hourly. The construction of the Inhulets-Pivdenne water main continues, it is a large-scale project that will supply water to two districts.

In addition, water is constantly supplied to the hromadas in the oblast. [Hromada is an administrative unit designating a town, village or several villages and their adjacent territories  ed.]

In Kherson Oblast, the situation with water supply is tense in Mylove hromada, Novovorontsovka hromada and the city of Beryslav. Work is underway to restore the full water supply in the area as soon as possible. Bottled water is being distributed to people on a daily basis  the townspeople have already received about 40,000 litres.

Also, a mobile water purification filter with a capacity of up to 30,000 litres per day will be installed in Beryslav over the next week.

In Kherson, in the Ostriv neighbourhood, the centralised water supply is connected for technical needs. "In a couple of days, there will be drinking water in the taps," Kuleba promised.

He has also said that the water supply is being restored in Donetsk Oblast, where the water supply system is not fully operational due to constant attacks.

Due to the dam of the Karlivka Reservoir in Pokrovsk being destroyed in May, water is supplied on an hourly basis. Regular water deliveries to people have also been arranged there.

Water supply from the Karlivka reservoir is expected to be restored by mid-July.

Background:

On the night of 5-6 June 2023, the Russian occupiers blew up the Kakhovka Hydroelectric Power Plant.

The turbine hall and the plant itself are completely destroyed. The HPP is beyond repair.

The explosion of the Kakhovka Hydroelectric Power Plant caused flooding of a number of territories, human casualties and an environmental disaster.

On 28 June, residents of Kherson were warned not to drink tap water as the city continues to disinfect its water supply systems and the water is currently unsafe for consumption.

Journalists fight on their own frontline. Support Ukrainska Pravda or become our patron!
House progressives are calling for changes to the Supreme Court following a slate of decisions affecting affirmative action, student debt cancellation and LGBTQ protections.

The courts, if they were to proceed without any check on their power, without any balance on their power, then we will start to see an undemocratic and, frankly, dangerous authoritarian expansion of power in the Supreme Court, Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.) said Sunday on CNNs State of the Union.

Ocasio-Cortez has called for changes to the high court, including expanding the number of justices on the bench. In ending federal abortions rights last year, and landing a blow to LGBTQ protections in a decision out Friday, the court is signaling a dangerous creep toward authoritarianism, she said.



Rep. Ayanna Pressley (D-Mass.), another prominent House progressive, also slammed the Supreme Courts recent rulings on Sunday, saying if the court were a caucus in Congress, would be the bootstrapper forced to birth don't say gay caucus.

They continue to overturn the will of the majority of the people and to make history for all the wrong reasons, legislating from the bench and being political from the bench, Pressley said during an interview on MSNBCs The Katie Phang Show. It is nothing but intersectional oppression, she added.

Both members of Congress said that every option should be on the table when it comes reining in the courts power and reforming its ethics.

We should be considering subpoenas and investigations. We must pass much more binding and stringent ethics guidelines, Ocasio-Cortez said.

I think everything should be on the table, Pressley said when asked whether she supports adding more seats to the nine-justice bench. [Here's] a Supreme Court that has been emboldened in rolling back the hands of time, undermining and rolling back what should be fundamental civil human rights. So everything should be on the table: reform and expansion.

Any bills to expand the court have little chance of passing in a divided Congress. And even if they do, President Joe Biden does not support the change. Doing so would be a mistake he said last week.
Convicted murderer Gerald Pizzuto has spent 37 years  more than half his life  locked up on Idahos death row. Hes dodged his scheduled execution by way of a needle five times over that period.

Since Pizzutos 1986 conviction for killing two people at a remote Idaho County cabin north of McCall, Idaho taxpayers have paid about $1.3 million to keep him imprisoned, according to an Idaho Statesman analysis of state prison cost records. The price to house another of the states death row inmates  the longest serving at more than 40 years  is nearly $1.5 million, applying 2022 per-day prison costs at the Idaho Maximum Security Institution outside Kuna.

Today, Pizzuto, 67, is terminally ill with late-stage bladder cancer and has been under hospice treatment for more than three years. A federal district judges stay in March of the latest death warrant for Pizzuto each day brings him closer to dying of natural causes. Should that happen, Pizzuto will have fulfilled a sentence tantamount to life in prison  but at the elevated costs connected to a death sentence, according to findings in financial studies for two of Idahos neighboring states.

The death penalty cost analyses, from Washington state in 2015 and Oregon in 2016, included more than a decade of data in efforts to calculate the true impact to coffers for each states capital punishment program. Both studies found that pursuit of a death sentence on average cost taxpayers upward of $1 million more than when prosecutors sought life imprisonment in aggravated first-degree murder cases.

Peter Collins, a professor in the criminal justice, criminology and forensics department at Seattle University, was the lead author of the two studies. Similar conclusions on these heightened costs apply to the other states in the U.S., including Idaho, that maintain the death penalty, he told the Statesman.

If cost is what youre looking at, not one study has shown its cost-beneficial from an economic standpoint, Collins said in a phone interview. So the question about whether its worth it is up to the people running the show, and ultimately maybe the voters.

Idahos death row at the Idaho Maximum Security Institution near Kuna houses male prisoners sentenced to death. The states only female death row inmate is housed at the Womens Correctional Center in Pocatello.

Idaho once made an attempt to study the economic costs of the states death penalty. The report, published in 2014 by the Idaho Legislatures Office of Performance Evaluations, left the issue largely unsettled from a lack of data needed to conduct a more precise analysis, wrote Rakesh Mohan, longtime director of the nonpartisan legislative office.

Had a broader study been possible, Mohan wrote, he expected the same outcome as existing analyses by others on the subject.

Collecting comprehensive data would require a considerable amount of effort and resources for stakeholders but would likely not result in anything different than what we already know from national and other states research, he said. Our study shows that capital cases take longer to complete than noncapital cases because of their inherent complexity and added statutory steps.

The state hasnt carried out an execution since 2012, and just two in almost 30 years. Increasingly, many death row inmates across the U.S. die in prison before they exhaust the full slate of their constitutionally provided appeals, criminal justice journalism nonprofit The Marshall Project reported.

These realities in Idaho raise questions among capital punishment critics about how the the state is using taxpayer dollars to fund the death penalty.

Theyre spending a tremendous amount of money, but the public doesnt know, and apparently neither does the state of Idaho, Ritchie Eppink, a Boise-based civil rights attorney formerly with the ACLU of Idaho, told the Statesman. Regardless of ones views on the death penalty, the public should be able to weigh in on this, and weigh in on this in a fully informed way, which were still not able to do.

Idaho has eight inmates on its death row, and could soon add more. A handful of high-profile murder cases are set to move forward in the state, including with the announcement last week that prosecutors will seek the death penalty in the case of Bryan Kohberger, the man charged with killing four University of Idaho students in November.

Bryan Kohberger, right, is charged with murdering four University of Idaho students in November 2022. Prosecutors plan to seek the death penalty if he is convicted.

At the same time, a new, controversial state law that allows firing squad executions has taken effect, renewing debate about the public costs of capital punishment in Idaho.

Idaho struggles to secure execution drugs

Idaho, politically dominated by Republicans, is frequently named to lists of the nations most ideologically conservative states, according to research and polling by Gallup. On its face, however, the push to preserve the death penalty, given conclusions about its added costs, appears to conflict with traditional concepts of fiscal conservatism, which emphasize limited government and efficient spending of taxpayer money.

If costs of any program are inflating, then an evaluation is appropriate, former Rep. Greg Chaney, R-Caldwell, who supports the death penalty, told the Statesman by phone. It doesnt necessarily mean you go in with a mindset that youre going to repeal it.  Different people are going to expect the conversation to end in different places, but its definitely worth talking about.

Idaho is one of 24 U.S. states that maintains an active death penalty program. On Saturday, it became the fifth of those states to add the firing squad as a backup method of execution.

In March, Republican Gov. Brad Little signed the bill into law with an emergency provision to take effect July 1. Idaho previously had firing squad executions on the books, from 1982 to 2009, but never used it.

Like many states, Idaho has faced difficulties securing the chemicals it needs under state law to carry out a lethal injection execution, including for Pizzuto. For several years, pharmaceutical companies and many pharmacies have refused to sell the drugs used in lethal injections to prison systems throughout the U.S.

Theres anti-capital punishment activists that try and keep those chemicals from being available, Little said in an April interview with the Statesman. The chemicals are out there, its their availability thats the hangup, he said.

That challenge led the Idaho Department of Correction to pursue covert means to obtain lethal injection drugs and protect the identities of the suppliers for its most recent executions, in 2011 and 2012. In each instance, state prison officials used confidential accounts and paid thousands of dollars in cash to out-of-state pharmacies with dubious safety histories for the chemicals, as the Statesman previously reported.

Idaho hasnt executed a death row inmate since June 2012, and just two in almost 30 years. The states preferred method is lethal injection, at the Idaho Maximum Security Institution near Kuna, with a firing squad as the backup method with a new law that took effect July 1.

The state spent more than $53,000 to execute convicted murderer Paul Rhoades in November 2011, according to the Idaho death penalty costs report. The total included as much as $10,000 for lethal injection drugs, public records showed.

Idaho spent slightly less, roughly $50,000, to execute convicted murderer Richard Leavitt in June 2012, the report said. The lethal injection drugs used in the states most recent execution cost upward of $15,000, the public records showed.

To aid future execution drug purchases, the Idaho Legislature last year passed a law to shield the names of all suppliers from disclosure, including through the states public records law. When that didnt immediately work either to obtain the chemicals  as demonstrated by the states inability to execute Pizzuto  prison officials admitted that Idahos ability to fulfill a convicted murderers death sentence was effectively rendered unenforceable.

Some opponents to capital punishment argued that perhaps it was time for Idaho to rethink whether keeping the death penalty still made sense, including financially. Idaho Attorney General Raul Labrador, the states legal representation, balked at the concept in a statement to the Statesman.

We should not second-guess Idaho taxpayers, who have already decided through their elected representatives that the most heinous and brutal crimes deserve the ultimate punishment, Labrador said. Moreover, any fiscal discussion should ask why capital litigation costs what it does. Part of the reason, of course, is that the death row inmates will routinely engage in abusive litigation, dragging out the process over decades.

Idaho Attorney General Raul Labrador, a former Republican congressman, helped draft the states new firing squad execution law that took effect July 1.

In response to the latest obstacle to executions, state lawmakers, led by Rep. Bruce Skaug, R-Nampa, sought another method. Labrador, a former Republican congressman for Idaho, helped draft House Bill 186 to restore the firing squad.

No Democrats supported the bill, and the Legislatures Republican supermajority overwhelmingly passed it, sending it on to Littles desk.

What good are laws if they wont or cant be enforced? Rep. Wendy Horman, R-Idaho Falls, who voted in favor of the bill, told the Statesman in an email. Horman co-chairs the powerful legislative committee that sets agency budgets. Capital punishment is used sparingly and reserved for only the most heinous crimes, and it serves the purpose of exacting justice for the victims while deterring similar abhorrent behavior from others.

The new law requires the director of the state prison system to determine whether lethal injection drugs can be obtained within five days of the issuance of a death warrant for an inmate. If not, the execution method defaults to the reserve method of the firing squad to fulfill the death sentence.

I wonder if the lethal injection drugs will miraculously become available now that H186 is law, Skaug told the Statesman by email. It is the states duty to carry out the sentences. The victims and their surviving families deserve to see the retribution that Idaho has deemed appropriate.

Although the firing squad law is now technically in effect, the prison system is still in the planning stages, state prison system spokesperson Jeff Ray said by email. That process entails remodeling an area at the maximum security prison to execute inmates with guns, and developing procedures, which must be approved by the Department of Corrections three-member board appointed by the governor.

Use of firing squad in question

Sen. Doug Ricks, R-Rexburg, co-sponsored the firing squad law. In his pitch to fellow members of the Senate Judiciary and Rules Committee, he discussed the costs taxpayers shoulder to house, sometimes for decades, the members of the states death row, including Pizzuto.

We also need to consider the costs involved, Ricks told the committee. You can get your calculator out, do the math, times that many years by the days and by (the daily rate). It adds up to an awful lot of money.

The daily rate for an inmate at the maximum security prison outside Kuna is about $100 a day, cost records provided by the state prison system showed. The price is the same for death row and non-death row inmates, Ray, the state prisons spokesperson, confirmed, which equates to about $36,500 a year per inmate.

Idahos death row at the Idaho Maximum Security Institution near Kuna houses male prisoners sentenced to death.

Those prison costs also represent just a fraction of the total expense to taxpayers for states to pursue death sentences. Millions of dollars rack up so each death row inmate can exercise their right to appeals before they are executed.

The Washington and Oregon studies detailed a multitude of often omitted costs: court fees, attorney and staff time, trials and state and federal appeals, incarceration, execution trainings, and needed materials to carry out a death sentence, such as lethal injection drugs. Even so, incarceration costs alone on average were 1.4 to 1.6 times higher when the death penalty was sought, the Washington study found.

Overall, based on 17 years of data, the Washington study found that the average cost of a death penalty case totaled nearly $3.1 million compared with about $2 million when it wasnt pursued. From 13 years of data, the Oregon study found the average cost of a death penalty case was nearly $2.6 million compared with about $1.7 million when prosecutors instead sought a sentence of life in prison without parole.

Deborah Denno is a law professor at Fordham University in New York City and one of the foremost death penalty experts in the U.S. She told the Statesman that widely held beliefs that lifetime imprisonment is costlier over the life of the inmate than death sentences has been proved wrong time and again.

Its public misinformation, Denno said in a phone interview, specifically affirming the Washington studys findings. I dont know how anybody could possibly argue with these statistics or even question them at all. Its across the board, across the country, different states, but across different times, too, given the length-of-time cost studies conducted.

Oregons death penalty remains on a governor-imposed moratorium that first went into effect in 2011. Meanwhile, Washington this year became the latest state to formally abolish capital punishment, following up on a 2018 state Supreme Court ruling that the death penalty was unconstitutional.

I think that the recognition of the cost influenced people, Bob Boruchowitz, director of the Defender Initiative at Seattle Universitys law school and co-author of the Washington cost study, told the Statesman by phone. Regardless of what one feels about the death penalty, if youre spending millions of dollars to kill one person  how is that a good investment?

A new law took effect July 1 to add the firing squad as Idahos backup execution method to lethal injection. Plans call for spending an estimated $750,000 to renovate the F-block at the Idaho Maximum Security Institution near Kuna to add an area for firing squad executions.

Idahos new firing squad law also included a one-time estimated cost of $750,000 for the prison system to renovate a cell block at the maximum security prison for the new backup execution method. Ricks told his Senate committee peers during testimony for the bill that the mandatory area so observers can witness an execution made up a lot of the cost.

If that was not there, itd be much, probably less expensive to tool up to do some of that, Ricks said.

In fact, the prior remodel of the maximum security prisons same cell block for lethal injection executions came with a one-time cost of $170,000, according to the 2014 Idaho Legislature report. Of that, $4,418 was associated with facility and ground improvements for the demonstrator and media areas, the study detailed.

In an emailed statement, Ricks said the firing squad bill adds nothing to the costs Idaho expends to maintain capital punishment. The one-time prison remodel cost is very small relative to the states overall budget, and the facility should last for decades to come, he said.

House Bill 186 does not impact the elevated costs for seeking the death penalty to taxpayers prior to a death warrant, Ricks wrote. All those elevated costs have already been, or will be, incurred during the process specified in our criminal justice system even if House Bill 186 had not passed.

Idaho Gov. Brad Little, left, is serving his second term in office. In December 2021, he rejected the state parole boards vote to reduce the death sentence of inmate Gerald Pizzuto to life in prison without parole.

Even with the law taking effect, Little questioned whether Idaho would ever use the firing squad to execute an inmate, still giving heavy preference to lethal injection. His acknowledgment is an early indication that the hundreds of thousands spent constructing the area at the prison for the firing squad could come without any perceivable benefit.

This firing squad is a last result if we cant get those compounds that are out there, and Im thinking we will  and the firing squad wont be necessary, Little said. We perhaps will need a backup to lethal injection. I think lethal injection is going to be the method that by far is preferred to get that done.

Execution offers measure of peace for victims families

Proponents of Idahos death penalty said they have doubts about the intent behind the economic arguments posed about reconsidering the practice.

It is well-known that death penalty abolitionists are highlighting the expenses associated with capital punishment in a deliberate attempt to appeal to fiscal conservatives, Labrador said. Even assuming seeking the death penalty costs more than imposing fixed-life sentences, such costs would be justified. Capital punishment brings closure to victims of crimes and serves a deterrent effect.

Rep. Bruce Skaug, R-Nampa, chair of the House judiciary committee, co-sponsored Idahos new firing squad execution law, which took effect July 1.

Idahos new firing squad law may hasten executions for the backlog of death row inmates once the legal process fully plays itself out, Skaug added.

It is interesting how political liberals are suddenly fiscal conservatives on death penalty expenses, he said. Should death penalties start to be carried out more frequently in Idaho, the fiscal cost per case will become less.

Supporting the death penalty and identifying as a fiscal conservative are not mutually exclusive or necessarily in conflict, said Chaney, the former state lawmaker. Even if studies consistently show that pursuit of capital punishment costs more than life imprisonment, elected policymakers are entrusted with how best to prioritize and spend taxpayer money, he said.

I think that there is a time for righteous anger about the loss of life, Chaney said. And in those extreme cases, if it does cost more for the state to meet its obligations to at least attempt as best it can to carry out that punishment, then the cost is justifiable.

In the case of Pizzutos lengthy stay on Idaho death row, he was saved from another prior execution date in June 2021 when the states Commission of Pardons and Parole agreed to grant him a clemency hearing. The panel later voted to reduce his death sentence to life in prison without parole, but Little rejected it. Pizzuto has bypassed two more death sentences since that time.

Idaho death row inmate Gerald Pizzuto, center, attends his state parole board clemency hearing seated next to one of his public defenders, Bruce Livingston, left, in November 2021. Pizzuto is terminally ill and has avoided execution five times since his 1986 murder conviction.

The Federal Defender Services of Idaho, which represents Pizzuto and the majority of Idahos death row inmates, declined a request for comment from the Statesman. But in past statements, the legal nonprofit questioned the innumerable costs to the state from Littles decision, which has led the state to continue to seek Pizzutos execution.

The commission voted more than a year ago to grant Mr. Pizzuto clemency and to commute his sentence to life in prison without parole so that he could live out his natural life behind bars, Deborah A. Czuba, supervising attorney for the nonprofits unit that specializes in death penalty cases, said in March. These death warrants are also becoming an extraordinary burden to taxpayers who are covering the costs of unnecessary and repetitive litigation.

Presented with data from the two death penalty financial studies, the governors office sidestepped questions about elevated costs, which includes those for Pizzuto after more than three decades.

Idaho law entrusts local elected prosecutors with the discretion to seek the death penalty for certain heinous crimes, Madison Hardy, Littles spokesperson, said in a written statement. As chief executive of the state, the governors role is to faithfully carry out lawful sentences imposed through the judicial processes. Gov. Little supports capital punishment because it is sometimes the only way to bring justice upon evildoers and provide victims families with some measure of peace.
FILE - Hunter Biden, the son of President Joe Biden, speaks to guests during the White House Easter Egg Roll on the South Lawn of the White House, April 18, 2022, in Washington. (AP Photo/Andrew Harnik, File) (ASSOCIATED PRESS)

WASHINGTON (AP)  The federal prosecutor leading the investigation of President Joe Biden's son Hunter is pushing back against claims that he was blocked from pursuing criminal charges in Los Angeles and Washington and denies retaliating against an IRS official who disclosed details about the case.

In a two-page letter to House Republicans on Friday, U.S. Attorney David Weiss in Delaware defended the lengthy investigation into Hunter Biden's financial dealings that ended last month with a plea with the Justice Department that likely spares Biden from time behind bars.

Weiss, who was named to that post by President Donald Trump and was kept on by the Biden administration, said in his letter that the department did not retaliate against Gary Shapley, an IRS agent who said the prosecutor helped block Shapley's job promotion after the tax agency employee had reached out to congressional investigators about the Biden case.

Shapley is one of two IRS employees interviewed by Republicans pursuing investigations into nearly every facet of the younger Bidens business dealings.

One of the investigating committees, the House Ways and Means Committee, voted to publicly disclose congressional testimony from the IRS employees shortly after the plea deal was announced June 20.

The testimony from Shapley and an unidentified agent detailed what they called a pattern of slow-walking investigative steps and delaying enforcement actions in the months before the 2020 presidential election won by Democrat Joe Biden.

It is unclear whether the conflict they describe amounts to internal disagreement about how to pursue the investigation or a pattern of interference and preferential treatment. Justice Department policy has long warned prosecutors to take care in charging cases with potential political overtones around the time of an election, to avoid influencing the outcome.

Shapley also claimed that Weiss asked the Justice Department in March 2020 to be provided special counsel status in order to bring the tax cases in jurisdictions outside Delaware, including Washington, and California, but was denied.

In response to that claim, the department said Weiss has full authority over this matter, including responsibility for deciding where, when, and whether to file charges as he deems appropriate. He needs no further approval to do so.

In his letter, Weiss said he was assured by department that if he sought to bring charges in a venue other than Delaware, he would be granted special status to do so. Generally, U.S. attorneys are limited to their own jurisdictions when bringing criminal charges.

Biden, 53, reached an agreement with federal prosecutors to plead guilty to misdemeanor tax offenses. The plea deal would also avert prosecution on a felony charge of illegally possessing a firearm as a drug user, as long as Biden adheres to conditions agreed to in court. He will appear in a Delaware court later this month.

Last week, leaders of the Republican-controlled House Judiciary, Oversight and Accountability, and Ways and Means committees asked in a letter to Attorney General Merrick Garland for nine officials from the Justice Department and two from the FBI to address the IRS employees' claims.

Weiss said in his letter to Ohio Rep. Jim Jordan, chairman of the House Judiciary Committee, that he would be willing to discuss such topics with congressional officials, but reiterated the case is an active criminal investigation and there's little else he can divulge at this time.

Republicans have focused much attention on an unverified tip to the FBI that alleged a bribery scheme involving Joe Biden when he was vice president. The unsubstantiated claim, which first emerged in 2019, was that Biden pressured Ukraine to fire its top prosecutor in order to stop an investigation into Burisma, an oil-and-gas company where Hunter Biden was on the board.

Meanwhile, Hunter Bidens lawyer, Abbe Lowell, called the investigations by Republicans across multiple congressional committees an obsession.

Since taking the majority in 2023, various leaders of the House and its committees have discarded the established protocols of Congress, rules of conduct, and even the law in what can only be called an obsession with attacking the Biden family, he wrote.
Proud Boys fined over $1 million for hateful and overtly racist attack on Black church

Members of the far-right organization, the Proud Boys, have been ordered to pay more than $1million damages for their role in destroying property at a predominantly Black church in 2020.

DC Superior Court Judge Neal Kravitz approved the judgement on Friday against Proud Boys members Joseph Biggs, Enrique Tarrio, Jeremy Bertino, and John Turano, as well as the group's LLC.

Judge Kravitz described the incident as "hateful and overtly racist conduct," according to CNN.

The hate group tore down the Metropolitan African Methodist Episcopal Church's Black Lives Matter sign while rallying in Washington DC in 2020.

On 12 December, 2020, individuals dressed in Proud Boys clothing had "leaped over Metropolitan AME's fence, entered the church's property, and went directly to the Black Lives Matter sign," according to Judge Kravitz's order.

"They then broke the zip ties that held the sign in place, tore down the sign, threw it to the ground, and stomped on it while loudly celebrating," Mr Kravitz wrote in his ruling.

"Many others then jumped over the fence onto the churchs property and joined in the celebration of the signs destruction.

He added that the church had "vocally and publicly" supported civil rights and racial justice causes.

Church leaders and congregants view supporting the Black Lives Matter movement as a continuation of the churchs mission of advocacy for civil rights and racial justice, he wrote.

Proud Boys leader Enrique Tarrio was among four ordered to pay $1million to a church after the group destroyed its Black Lives Matter sign in 2020 (Noah Berger)

The judge also said the Proud Boys had "incited and committed acts of violence against members of Black and African American communities across the country".

"They also have victimized women, Muslims, Jews, immigrants, and other historically marginalized people, he wrote.

The $1m compensation awarded to the church will be used to repair the sign and increase security in reponse to the attack and "ongoing threats".

Arthur Ago, an attorney representing the church, said the congregation was not looking for a "monetary windfall" but rather wanted to "stop the Proud Boys from being able to act with impunity, without fear of consequences for their actions".

Tarrio, a leader of the Proud Boys, pleaded guilty in July 2021 to property destruction in a criminal case involving the burning of a Black Lives Matter banner at another predominantly Black church in Washington.

Tarrio and Biggs were also among the four Proud Boys found guilty of seditious conspiracy for their roles in the Capitol riot on January 6, 2021.
Public kept out of courtroom as judge weighs evidence in South Carolina police ambush case

A judge shut a courtroom from the public and reporters Thursday during pretrial motions in the death penalty case of a South Carolina man charged with killing two police officers in a 2018 ambush.

Court hearings in South Carolina are almost always open. But lawyers for Frederick Hopkins successfully argued that potential jurors could be exposed to information that a judge might later decide to exclude from trial. Thursdays hearing centered on whether some evidence or statements from witness would be allowed at trial.

ALSO READ: Man charged with shooting 7 SC officers blames PTSD, letter says

If it were publicly disseminated prior to the jury summons, it would be virtually impossible for us to get a jury in Florence County. And it would necessitate trying to move the trial. Which I dont think anybody wants to do, defense attorney Boyd Young said according to WPDE-TV.

Prosecutor Ed Clements did not fight the motion and Circuit Judge Eugene Griffith Jr. granted it, ordering the public and members of the media to leave the courtroom.

It streamlines things when you have a closed courtroom, for the purpose of that hearing. But, once a jury is selected, its public, Griffith said.

Previous court rulings in South Carolina said judges can only close courtrooms for pretrial hearings if there is a substantial probability the defendants right to a fair trial will be affected, if it can be proven closing the courtroom will prevent that from happening, and there are no other alternatives.

In other high-profile cases, judges have ruled previous publicity was so great any extra attention from pretrial proceedings wouldnt change things. In the Alex Murdaugh trial earlier this year, the courtroom wasnt closed for evidentiary hearings before the trial despite national attention.

ALSO READ: Retired officer to deliver blue line flag to family of fallen Florence sergeant

In another highly unusual step, all motions and records in the case have been kept off South Carolinas public court records site,

Hopkins, 78, faces two murder charges and a number of other counts. Authorities said he fired from a second-story window on Florence County deputies he knew were coming to his home in October 2018. They were attempting to execute a search warrant in a sexual abuse case where his son would later plead guilty.

Hopkins kept firing at Florence city police officers trying to rescue the wounded deputies, investigators said.

Florence Police Sgt. Terrence Carraway died the day of the shooting and Florence County Sheriffs investigator Farrah Turner was wounded and died several weeks later. Five other officers were injured.

ALSO READ: Judge orders mental review in South Carolina police ambush shooting case

Also on Thursday, the prosecution said it would like to start the trial in the middle of February.

Hopkins attended the hearing in a wheelchair and used a device so he could better hear the court proceedings. It took several minutes to figure out the judge hadnt turned on his microphone.

(WATCH BELOW: Family, community say goodbye to Raleigh officer killed in mass shooting)




Late Queens horse chintz is heir today, gone tomorrow after Charless clear out

This image, taken in 2022 in the late Queen's private sitting room, shows two equine statuettes on her mantel. One depicts a groom using a rein to bring a horse under control while another depicted the then Princess Elizabeth, aged ten, on her first pony

Queen Elizabeth II was passionate about horses. Her son and heir, less so.

The King has banished part of his late mothers huge collection of equestrian bronzes, portraits and trophies to the basement as he seeks to furnish the royal residences to his own taste.

The equine ornaments are said to have cluttered the corridors at both Windsor Castle and Buckingham Palace, but sources reveal that many have now been unceremoniously placed in storage.

Photographs taken in the late Queens private apartment at Windsor suggest that it was packed with mementos to commemorate her great passion.

One of the more recent images, taken in February 2022 in her private sitting room, showed two equine statuettes on her mantel. One depicted a groom using a rein to bring a horse under control while another depicted the then Princess Elizabeth, aged ten, on her first pony.

Queen Elizabeth II receives the Governor of the Bank of England Andrew Bailey during an audience in the Oak Room at Windsor Castle on November 24, 2021 - WPA Pool

There was also a gold horse statuette placed prominently on her desk.

In 2020, an image of the late Queen calling Boris Johnson, then Prime Minister, showed the same two statuettes on the mantel.

Sources say there are equestrian paintings, statues and sculptures of all periods at virtually every royal residence, including at Buckingham Palace and Windsor Castle, both on prominent public display and in private areas.

One admitted: As The King spends more time at Buckingham Palace and Windsor a small number of items of decorative arts are gradually being rearranged as you would expect.

They insisted that a  very significant number chosen by the late Queen remain.

Easy to buy for

The Queens passion for all things equine-related provided useful inspiration for world leaders and others buying her gifts.

So much so that a large proportion of the official gifts presented from world leaders revolved around her favourite four-legged animals.

Included in the official 2014 gift list was a mounted sculpture of a white horse from Frances then president Francois Hollande; a bronze sculpture of a horses head from the Emir of Qatar and another bronze statuette of the famous Irish thoroughbred, Arkle from the President of Ireland, Michael Higgins.

A dressage crop presented to her late Majesty by the governor general of Canada, David Johnston, was no doubt put to good use.

In 2019, the late Queen received a 24-carat gold-plated horse comb from President Borut Pahor of Slovenia.

In 2018, she received a Boardman pewter thoroughbred horse statuette, a bronze maquette of the first official War Horse Memorial and a Bronze statuette of a horse, designed and made by the artist Marja Smits, entitled Beart 411, limited edition 5 of 8.

The list of equine-related gifts she received from 1953, the year of her Coronation, onwards is extensive.

She also received many gifts of actual horses, including in 1956 an Akhel-Teke golden dun stallion called Mele-Kush (Dun Bird) from Chairman Bulganin and General Secretary Krushchev of the Soviet Union.

The following year she received the Lusitano stallion Bucaco from the Government of Portugal, along with a saddle, headcollar, bridle and martingale from President Lopes of Portugal. The saddle was polaced on view in the European display in the Green Drawing Room.

In 1969 she received the black mare Burmese from the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP). When not serving as a Metropolitan Police horse Burmese carried The Queen to Trooping the Colour between 1969 and 1986.

An equine encyclopedia

The late Queen was not just an avid collector of equine memorabilia, she was also famously knowledgeable about all aspects of horse racing and husbandry.

Before her death the following September, Terry Pendry, the Queens head groom and stud manager, told The Telegraph: With horses she is always in a great mood, thoroughly enjoying herself. Horses have always been her passion ever since she was a small princess.

Mr Pendry, a former professional jockey and member of the Household Cavalry Riding Staff who looked after all Her Majestys private horses and ponies at Windsor, added: She is an equine encyclopedia. Theres nothing she doesnt know about horses. She names every one of hers and she knows all their ancestry. There is nobody with an equine knowledge to match hers.

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Isla Bryson, formerly known as Adam Graham, arrives at court earlier this year - Andrew Milligan/PA

The transgender rapist Isla Bryson has complained of being the victim of transphobic abuse in a male prison.

The double rapist, who was born Adam Graham, was moved to HMP Edinburgh after initially being sent to a womens jail in January, causing a scandal which was seen as contributing to Nicola Sturgeons downfall.

The 31-year-old, in letters sent to a Sunday newspaper from behind bars, complained that the prison was full of transphobic people and revealed police had become involved as a result of abuse.

Police Scotland confirmed that a 24-year-old man had been charged in connection with threatening and abusive behaviour following a report of a hate crime in June.

Bryson was initially sent to Cornton Vale female prison, under a Scottish Prison Service (SPS) policy which followed the same principle as Ms Sturgeons gender self-ID law and was later blocked by the UK Government.

The case caused Ms Sturgeon to face intense scrutiny during her final weeks in office, as she repeatedly attempted to avoid saying whether she considered Bryson male or female.

In correspondence, the rapist offered The Sunday Mail an interview but demanded a fee of 1,000, claiming that whatever I say you will make me out to be a monster.

Bryson claimed human rights laws were being breached in the prison and added: Im not doing too good because of abuse from the staff members all because I am transgender and other prisoners too.

This jail is full of transphobic people. The police are involved because of the abuse to do with my gender. People wont stop being transphobic.

Hate crime allegation

Bryson was sentenced to eight years in prison in February. Humza Yousaf, the First Minister, has claimed that the father-of-three is at it and is not a real transgender person.

However, he has so far not explained how sexual predators such as Bryson would be prevented from exploiting the SNPs gender self-ID system, which he has gone to court in an attempt to resurrect.

The law would allow any Scot aged 16 or over to change their legal sex simply by signing a declaration, with no need to provide any medical evidence.

Legal experts have said Bryson would almost certainly have become legally female had the system been in force, which would have made it harder for prison bosses to transfer the convict to a male jail.

The SPS rewrote its policy in the wake of the Bryson case, with newly-convicted prisoners now sent to jails that correspond with their biological sex, regardless of how they claim to identify.

A jury found that two women had been raped by Bryson, in 2016 and 2019, in similar circumstances.

While claiming to have had questions over gender since childhood, Bryson only transitioned and started using the name Isla after being charged by police.

A Police Scotland spokesman said: Around 11am on Thursday 8 June 2023, we received a report of a hate crime at HMP Edinburgh.

A 24-year-old man has been charged in connection with threatening and abusive behaviour. A report will be submitted to the Procurator Fiscal.

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Tampa Bay Rays' Randy Arozarena hits a two-run home run against the Seattle Mariners during the fourth inning of a baseball game, Friday, June 30, 2023, in Seattle. (AP Photo/Caean Couto)

Tampa Bay Rays All-Star left fielder Randy Arozarena will participate in the 2023 Home Run Derby, Arozarena announced Saturday on social media.

This will be Arozarenas first time in the Derby, and makes him the third Rays player to participate in one, after Evan Longoria and Carlos Pena.

Hes excited about it, Rays manager Kevin Cash said. I can feel very confident in saying he will be very entertaining. I know the fans enjoy watching Randy, I enjoy watching Randy. Hes got that It factor, and this is just another level to it.

Arozarena is the fourth announced participant in the eight-man July 10 contest at T-Mobile Park, joining Mariners center fielder Julio Rodriguez, Toronto Blue Jays first baseman Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and Los Angeles Dodgers outfielder Mookie Betts.

I feel very happy for the opportunity to participate in the Home Run Derby, Arozarena said. Its always been a goal of mine, and also to be in the All-Star game itself. Everyone knows I like to hit home runs, so that is another reason why I wanted to be able to participate.

Arozarena has 15 home runs so far this season, second on the Rays behind Jose Siri, who has 16. With Arozarenas bubbly personality and penchant for dramatic on-field moments, Cash sees him as a perfect fit for the Derbys big stage.

There are some people that just have it, Cash said. I dont know what it is, like you cant pin it down. You watch him, I think every time there is a picture taken of him or hes on TV, hes smiling, and most of the time fans can really relate to that. I appreciate that, and then you add the component that hes a really special talent, with speed, with power. Hes fun to watch.

Atlantas Ronald Acuna Jr., who topped all players in votes, said he will not participate for a third time.

Juan Soto won last years derby at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles, edging Rodriguez 19-18 in the final round.

___

AP MLB: https://apnews.com/hub/mlb and https://twitter.com/AP_Sports
The remarkable week: Did you miss the four key rulings made by the Supreme Court?

Gerald Groff, a former postal worker whose case was decided by the Supreme Court, stands during a television interview near a Now Hiring sign posted on the roadside at the United State Postal Service, March 8, 2023, in Quarryville, Pa. The Supreme Court on Thursday, June 29, used the case of a Christian mailman who didnt want to work Sundays to solidify protections for workers who are religious. | Carolyn Kaster, Associated Press

The rulings came one after the other over two days, barely allowing for reaction to settle in across the nation as the Supreme Court finished its term with four far-reaching decisions. It started notably with Groff v. DeJoy, which was decided in a 9-0 vote from the justices. The other decisions landed along conservative-liberal lines and drew strong reactions from nearly every seat of power in government, academia and in the workplace.

Here then is a summary of what occurred and what you might have missed. Click the links for a review of the specific articles run in the Deseret News, including links to commentary from Taylor Randall, the president of the University of Utah on affirmative action and gaining admittance to the university, and Brett G. Scharffs, the Rex E. Lee Chair and a professor of law at the J. Reuben Clark Law School, in the case of a web designer that much of the media cast as a religion v. LGBTQ rights, but which is actually a free speech case.

Here then are the cases and decisions.

The mail carrier and the Sabbath

The conflict started with an Amazon contract.

Before it, Gerald Groff had been happy with his work as a rural mail carrier and happy to be able to have Sundays off. After it, he still enjoyed the work, but he faced increasing pressure to take shifts on his Sabbath and thereby violate his religious beliefs.

Groff, who identifies as an evangelical Christian, initially solved the problem by transferring to an even more rural post office, one that didnt yet need to deliver on Sundays. But Amazons demands eventually found him there, and he ultimately resigned from his position after a sustained battle with supervisors over his religious accommodation request.

On Thursday the Supreme Court issued its unanimous opinion siding with the mail carrier in Groff v. DeJoy. The justices said employers cannot deny religious accommodation requests  including requests to avoid working on the Sabbath  unless granting them would impose a substantial burden.

An employer must show that the burden of granting an accommodation would result in substantial increased costs in relation to the conduct of its particular business, wrote Justice Samuel Alito in the majority unanimous opinion.

Related

Affirmative action and higher education

The Supreme Court Thursday released a major ruling on affirmative action, rejecting the use of race in college admissions.

The decision struck down race-conscious policies in two separate cases  Students for Fair Admissions v. President and Fellows of Harvard College in a 6-2 ruling, and Students for Fair Admissions v. University of North Carolina in a 6-3 ruling.

Chief Justice John Roberts wrote the majority opinion in both decisions, with justices Clarence Thomas, Samuel Alito, Neil Gorsuch, Brett Kavanaugh and Amy Coney Barrett in agreement. Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson recused herself from the Harvard case because of her affiliation with the school.

The Harvard and UNC admissions programs cannot be reconciled with the guarantees of the Equal Protection Clause, Roberts wrote. Both programs lack sufficiently focused and measurable objectives warranting the use of race, unavoidably employ race in a negative manner, involve racial stereotyping, and lack meaningful end points. We have never permitted admissions programs to work in that way, and we will not do so today.

Noteworthy was this statement from the majority: Universities can take into consideration an applicants discussion of how race affected his or her life, be it through discrimination, inspiration, or otherwise, the opinion stated.

Brown Jackson wrote a dissenting opinion, saying that the Supreme Courts decision will not end racism. The best that can be said of the majoritys perspective is that it proceeds (ostrich-like) from the hope that preventing consideration of race will end racism, she wrote. But if that is its motivation, the majority proceeds in vain.

Related

The web designer and free speech

The Supreme Court on Friday offered significant new protections to business owners, ruling that the First Amendment protects them from sharing messages that go against their own beliefs.

The 6-3 decision in favor of a Colorado web designer, Lorie Smith, expands the possibility of receiving exemptions from public accommodations laws, which aim to end discrimination against various groups, including the LGBTQ community. In court filings Smith filed a lawsuit seeking an injunction to prevent the State from forcing her to create websites celebrating marriages that defy her belief that marriage should be reserved to unions between one man and one woman.

Justices in the majority said that, while important, civil rights laws cannot be used to trample free speech rights. The case is 303 Creative v. Elenis.

The First Amendment envisions the United States as a rich and complex place where all persons are free to think and speak as they wish, not as the government demands, wrote Justice Neil Gorsuch in the majority opinion.

Justice Sonia Sotomayor dissented strongly: Today, the Court, for the first time in its history, grants a business open to the public a constitutional right to refuse to serve members of a protected class. ... That is wrong. Profoundly wrong, she wrote.

Scharffs, the Rex E. Lee Chair and BYU law professor, said the decision protects speech from all people: Imagine you are a gay website designer and youre asked to design a website for a group advocating against same-sex marriage? If you refused, Fridays Supreme Court decision in 303 Creative v. Elenis protects you against a zealous state official who might want to prosecute you for discrimination on the basis of sex or religion.

Related

Students and forgiveness of student loans

The Biden administrations initiative to partially relieve billions of dollars of federal student loan debt is unconstitutional, the Supreme Court ruled in a 6-3 decision Friday.

The decision in Biden v. Nebraska has far-reaching consequences for some 44 million Americans who owe a combined $1.7 trillion for their education, according to the Annie E. Casey Foundation.

Student loans are one of the highest sources of debt for Americans, second only to mortgages. The Biden administration plan would have wiped out more than $400 billion in student loan debt.

Chief Justice John Roberts, for the majority, wrote: The Secretarys comprehensive debt cancellation plan cannot fairly be called a waiver  it not only nullifies existing provisions, but augments and expands them dramatically.

However broad the meaning of waive or modify, that language cannot authorize the kind of exhaustive rewriting of the statute that has taken place here, the opinion stated.

Biden, in a statement, vowed, This fight is not over. Delivering remarks at the White House late Friday afternoon, Biden announced a different path to provide federal student loan debt relief, an approach that would rely on the Higher Education Act of 1965.

Justice Elena Kagan, in a dissenting opinion, wrote that the Supreme Court acts as though it is an arbiter of political and policy disputes, rather than of cases and controversies.

Kagan wrote that the Supreme Court once again substituted itself for Congress and the executive branch  and the hundreds of millions of people they represent  in making this nations most important, as well as most contested, policy decisions.

Sen. Mike Lee, R-Utah, said the decision was a clear victory over executive overreach, affirming that President Bidens student loan scheme was fundamentally unconstitutional.

Sen. Mitt Romney, R-Utah, said, Instead of working toward real bipartisan solutions to lower higher education costs, the Biden administration chose a partisan approach that  as the Supreme Court has ruled today  was outside the bounds of its authority and ultimately unsuccessful in supporting our students.

Related
Rep. Ro Khanna (D-Calif.) reupped his calls to reform the Supreme Court after the high court made three rulings this week striking down student loan forgiveness, ruling businesses can reject LGBTQ customers and banning affirmative action in college admissions.

This is a court that is out of touch, with attacks on modern life, Khanna argued in an interview with The Guardian shared on Saturday. Its a court that is regressive, that is rolling back womens rights, rolling back rights about racial equality, rolling back environmental protections, rolling back now assistance for young people.

And its exactly why we need term limits on these supreme court justices, he added.

Khanna, a member of the House Progressive Caucus, has long advocated for measures to completely cancel federal student loan debt, a move far beyond what President Biden attempted to do with the plan shut down by the court.

He is now celebrating signals from the Biden administration that student loan forgiveness will return via a program rooted in different law, with hopes that the new method could survive a legal challenge.

I am very glad that President Biden is not giving up the fight to cancel student debt and plans to invoke the Higher Education Authority Act, Khanna said. I urge him to be bold and do everything in his power to deliver relief  we cannot abandon young people now.

On Friday, Khanna and Rep. Don Beyer (D-Va.) announced the reintroduction of a bill in the House that would place an 18-year term limit on Supreme Court justices.

For many Americans, the Supreme Court is a distant, secretive, unelected body that can make drastic changes in their lives without any accountability, Beyer said in a statement.

A poll last year found that about two-thirds of Americans would support term limits for court justices.

Khanna said that everything should be on the table for Supreme Court reform, including expanding the court. In an interview Friday, Biden said that he is adamantly against that idea.

I think its a mistake, Biden said on MSNBC. If we do start the process of expanding the court, were going to politicize it maybe forever in a way that is not healthy.

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ArieForce One, an acclaimed new roller coaster at Fun Spot America Atlanta in Fayetteville, Ga. on June 11, 2023. (Dustin Chambers/The New York Times)

Tucked away in the wooded suburbs south of Atlanta is a small family-owned amusement park that used to bring in customers thanks to humble attractions such as its Ferris wheel, bumper boats, Tilt-a-Whirl, go-kart tracks, Scooby Swing and batting cages.

But as of this year, Fun Spot America Atlanta has transformed itself into something of a destination for the nations roller coaster enthusiasts, with the unveiling of a marquee ride, ArieForce One.

It towers above the green landscape, its steel tracks shimmering in the Georgia sun. Its 154-foot lift hill and steep first drop are visible from Highway 85, beckoning  and intimidating  passersby.

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The ride is among the newest designed by Rocky Mountain Construction, a roller coaster manufacturer that, in the past decade or so, has become one of the most innovative in the business. The company is a particular favorite among roller coaster fans who make special trips to theme parks around the country to check out the latest advancements in thrill-seeking. And Rocky Mountain Constructions latest creation was the main reason I paid Fun Spot a visit on a recent Saturday.

Another manufacturer on the wow list is Bolliger & Mabillard, a Swiss firm focused on bold, smooth steel rides, including a new stand-up roller coaster at SeaWorld Orlando. Yet another company, Intamin, has made its name with launch coasters and rides of extreme heights and speeds.

Youll hear abbreviations of these companies  RMC for Rocky Mountain Construction; B&M for Bolliger & Mabillard  tossed around at events attended by roller coaster aficionados, including the annual CoasterMania! at the Cedar Point theme park in Sandusky, Ohio. The day before my trip to Fun Spot America Atlanta, I was among the CoasterMania! revelers who rode roller coasters built by each of these three top designers.

Events such as CoasterMania! give roller coaster nerds such as me a chance to wallow in the details of a great ride with like-minded people. We can express whats great about the various twists and drops, discuss rumors of whats coming up at theme parks around the world and have exclusive time to ride (and reride) roller coasters early in the morning, before the parks officially open to the public.

This year, we talked a lot about RMC while in line for Steel Vengeance, one of the wildest and most ambitious coasters that the company has made.

The manufacturer has become known for taking old wooden roller coasters whose rides have gotten too rough and retrofitting them with steel tracks, keeping a lot of the wood structure and turning the rides into hybrid coasters.

Fred Grubb, who founded RMC with Suanne Dedmon, worked with engineer Alan Schilke to come up with their own brand of track for this purpose, the I-Box track. This innovation allows for creative tricks, including overbanked turns and inversions that give those on board a feeling of weightlessness.

For the recently unveiled ArieForce One at Fun Spot, RMC did not reprofile an old wooden coaster, instead building it from scratch with steel supports. The rides most talked-about element is its zero-G stall. Riders go upside down in an arc and feel as if they are floating for around four seconds. Fun Spot says its new roller coaster has the longest zero-G stall in the country.

ArieForce One is named after Fun Spot Americas CEO and owner, John Arie Jr., who said in a news release that the jet-themed coaster was a tribute to my father and his passion for flying. And, boy, does it fly. Once you make it over the lift, the ride clocks in at a relatively brief 45 seconds, but it doesnt waste a single one.

After the first drop, the ride goes into what RMC calls a raven-truss dive. In this part of the ride, the track flips you over and sends you diving the other way. From there, ArieForce One manages to fit in two barrel rolls before concluding with four swift airtime hops that bounce you out of your seat before the too-quick end.

Ive seen Jesus and came back, one frazzled rider behind me said.

In the station before my third ride, a girl who had gotten into her seat started to cry and asked her father if they could get off. He said OK, which was probably the right choice because ArieForce One packs a surprising wallop. That said, I rode it seven times.

Before one of my rides, I spotted two guys in line wearing roller coaster T-shirts from other parks (Mako at SeaWorld Orlando and Time Traveler at Silver Dollar City). I realized that they, like me, were doing a bit of coaster tourism.

They said they had come to Fun Spot from the Dallas-Fort Worth area, and one of them, Brandon Cummings, recently started a YouTube channel, CoasterNotes. They were both impressed by ArieForce One. It is definitely way more aggressive than I had anticipated, Cummings said, but they nailed it.

So, what, exactly, is the secret to an RMC creation? What about this company has people buzzing and making treks to ride its coasters all over the country? How does the company keep doing it? In a video call, I spoke with Jake Kilcup, director of engineering at RMC, about the companys design strategy and goals. Here are edited excerpts from that conversation.

Q: How long have you been with Rocky Mountain Construction?

A: I started with the company in 2009. I came in as a designer and a draftsman. I have my graduate degree in architecture. So I grew up with a fascination in homes and ended up in roller coasters.

Q: So, you were there during a pivotal time of change.

A: I came in when the company had just come up with the I-Box track concept and had just secured their first contract.

Q: How has the I-Box track changed steel coasters?

A: In the past, when it came to steel coasters, they were all built out of pipe, almost like a giant exhaust bender thats bending heavy-duty pipe into shape. But what were doing is taking a steel plate and making a double-webbed I-beam with a rail box. Were running on a flat surface, whereas most of the other steel roller coasters out there are running on a round surface.

Q: How does this make a difference?

A: When we build out of plate steel, were not physically bending anything to the point where its changing shape in any way. All of those track pieces were built by hand and with clamps. So, it actually lends itself to making the smoothest roller coasters in the world.

Q: Your rides have fun elements like wave turns that put riders horizontal and zero-G rolls that twist riders upside down. Where do these ideas come from?

A: Well, Alan Schilke, whos kind of a legend in the industry, does all the layouts for our rides. And Joe Draves is his protege. We talk all the time about how to re-create a feeling that you get from doing a certain trick on a snowboard or on skis. Its something that most people would never do in their lives because its difficult and risky. And how do we get that on a roller coaster, where its essentially a freebie but you still get that incredible feeling?

Q: Aside from ArieForce One, do you have a good recent example of an RMC-style element?

A: Were opening a ride in Hershey, Pennsylvania, right now called Wildcats Revenge. Right off the drop hill, the first big element on the ride is an underfoot, which is a snowboard move. Its barrel-rolling to one side but then turning to the other side. Thats straight out of extreme sports, right there.

Q: ArieForce One is a short coaster with a lot of power. What are you most proud of achieving with this ride?

A: We had some design constraints due to zoning. They were a pain at the time, but they lead to creativity that you would have never found if you didnt have them. We have some elements that go over a building at Fun Spot, and we had a ceiling that we had to stay under, which required a very aggressive barrel roll right over the building. Theres a lot of eye candy on that ride. But Im always looking for the more subtle surprise on each ride, and that barrel roll sneaks up on people.

Q: Theres an element on here I havent seen before. Can you describe the raven-truss dive?

A: A raven turn is essentially half a loop. We go up to the top, we turn upside down, and then we dive straight down to the ground. Its almost the combination of a barrel roll and a loop.

Q: And then theres the signature zero-G stall right after that. How did you work to make it the largest in the country?

A: It really comes down to speed, because our goal is to be at zero-G throughout that entire stall. So, youre not sitting in your seat and youre not hanging on the lap bar. Youre just floating like an astronaut, is the feeling youre going for. So, we have to take what we believe our typical speed is going to be and then design that entire element around those speeds to hold that zero-G. And theres nothing between you and the ground 90 feet below.

Q: The scale of this ride is much greater than all else at Fun Spot America Atlanta. How did you get to design this large aggressive coaster at this small park?

A: We had Fun Spot get ahold of us and say, Hey, were interested in doing something. And Ill be honest, the first thing that we thought was, OK, how do we put together a good value for them on a smaller scale? And they said, No, no, stop right now. We want something big. Were looking to punch up. Were looking for something that is going to make people take note. And right then, we were on board.

c.2023 The New York Times Company
Kherson

Russian invasion forces launched an attack on a residential neighborhood in Kherson, striking a residential building, a pharmacy, and a cafe, Kherson Oblast's military administration said on Telegram on July 2.

"The Russian army once again shelled a residential neighborhood in Kherson. A pharmacy and a cafe came under enemy fire," the message reads.

Read also: Russians strike Antonivskyi bridge area in Kherson, says Ukrainian military

The regional prosecutor's office reported that the attack resulted in at least four injured civilians.

Ukrainian law enforcement agencies have opened a criminal case into the attack, under charges of war crimes.

After escaping from the right (western) bank of Kherson Oblast, Russian troops have relentlessly been shelling the settlements liberated by the Ukrainian army and the oblast capital to Kherson.

Read also: Russian MPs behind abduction of Ukrainian orphans from Kherson Oblast  hromadske

An earlier attack on June 29 killed two people at a humanitarian aid distribution point in the city, while an attack on July 1 injured two children.

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Russia launches the first drone strike on Kyiv in 12 days and all are shot down

FILE - Ukrainian air defense intercepts a Shahed drone mid-air in the third Russia aerial attack on the capital in the last 24 hours in Kyiv, Ukraine, on May 30, 2023. When Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022, Ukraines military was largely reliant on Soviet-era weaponry. While that arsenal helped Ukraine fend off an assault on the capital of Kyiv and prevent a total rout in the early weeks of the war, billions of dollars in military assistance has , since poured into the country, including more modern Western-made weapons. (AP Photo/Evgeniy Maloletka, File) (ASSOCIATED PRESS)

KYIV, Ukraine (AP)  After a relative lull, Russia launched a drone attack early Sunday on Ukraine's capital, Kyiv, officials said. It was the first such attack of the war in 12 days.

All of the Iranian-made Shahed exploding drones were detected and shot down, according to Serhii Popko, the head of the Kyiv city administration. In addition to the city itself, the surrounding Kyiv region was targeted. Kyiv regional Gov. Ruslan Kravchenko reported that one person was wounded by falling debris from a destroyed drone.

Officials in the Ukrainian capital didn't provide an exact number of drones that attacked the city. But Ukraine's air force said that across the country, eight Shaheds and three Kalibr cruise missiles were launched by the Russians.

Further south, a 13-year-old boy was wounded in overnight shelling of Ukraines partially occupied southern Kherson province, said Oleksandr Tolokonnikov, spokesman for the Ukrainian administration of the province.

The child was wounded when the Russian army shelled the village of Mylove on the banks of the Dnieper River in the Beryslav district, Tolokonnikov said.

The child was hospitalized, there is no threat to his life, Tolokonnikov added, he said on state TV.

Shelling of Kherson province continued Sunday morning, wounding four people in the regional capital, also called Kherson. The regional prosecutors office said that a residential area of the city was targeted by Russian troops operating in the Russia-occupied part of the Kherson province. 

"At least four citizens were wounded, two of them due to a targeted strike on a high-rise building, the office wrote on Telegram.

Meanwhile, Ukraines military reported that the most intense fighting continued in Ukraines industrial east, with attacks focused around Bakhmut, Marinka and Lyman in the countrys Donetsk province, where 46 combat clashes took place.

Ukrainian forces were advancing amid a massive offensive on the southern and northern flanks of the destroyed city of Bakhmut, Ukraines Eastern Group of Forces spokesman Serhii Cherevaty told Ukrainian state television. But he didn't mention how much progress they made. The details, he said, would be disclosed once Ukrainian forces had analyzed the situation and consolidated their positions.

In its regular update Sunday morning, the General Staff said that over the previous 24 hours, Russia had carried out 27 airstrikes, one missile strike and around 80 attacks from multiple rocket launchers, targeting regions in the north, northeast, east and south of the country.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy visited the Black Sea port city of Odesa on Sunday  the day the country honors its navy  to hear a report from the navy commander, discuss prospects for the development of a naval drone and missile program, as well as present awards to service members.

In Russia, local officials reported that air defense systems shot down a drone over the Belgorod region, which borders Ukraine, while the neighboring Kursk region faced shelling attacks. No casualties or damage were reported.

Following the drama of Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhins rebellion last week, Russian authorities remained defiant. Vyacheslav Volodin, speaker of Russias lower house of parliament, the State Duma, said Sunday that Russian President Vladimir Putin came out of this situation having strengthened his position even more both in the country and in the world.

Russian society, he said, having passed this test, has shown its maturity. According to Volodin, there was not a single example of someone supporting the rebellion.

But Gen. Sergei Surovikin, the deputy commander of the Russian group of forces fighting in Ukraine, was believed to have been detained days after the mutiny. Its not clear whether Surovikin, who has longtime links to Prigozhin, faces any charges or where he is being held, reflecting the opaque world of the Kremlins politics and uncertainty after the revolt.

Writing on Telegram, Volodin said that the Russian president did everything to prevent bloodshed and confusion, including explaining to Wagner fighters the real state of affairs. (Putin) suggested that those who want to defend Russia continue their service with weapons in their hands. As far as I know, many of them agreed to this, Volodin said.

In addition, the speaker of the State Duma said that he had analyzed the challenges Russia faced in the past, affirming that if someone like Putin had been leading the country in 1917 and 1991, there wouldn't have been a revolution in Russia, and the USSR wouldn't have collapsed.

But independent observers and analysts say that Putin may come out politically weakened after first announcing that Wagner would face harsh repercussions, only to later say that the groups forces wouldnt face prosecution. Prigozhin was also allowed to leave Russia for Belarus.

Polish Interior Minister Mariusz Kaminski said Sunday that Poland would send 500 police officers to join 5,000 border guards and 2,000 soldiers already on the countrys border with Belarus. It follows an announcement earlier this week that Poland would strengthen defenses on its eastern border after the relocation of Wagner fighters to Belarus.

___

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Russia launched a new wave of drone strikes on Kyiv overnight into early Sunday, Ukrainian officials said.

The raid lasted an hour, but Ukrainian air defense forces shot the weapons down, Kyivs city military administration said on Telegram, per translations.

No hits on the city were recorded, according to the update, but falling debris damaged homes in two Kyiv districts. One man was reportedly injured in the leg, but no other casualties were noted. Its not clear how many drones were launched at the capital city.

Serhiy Popko, the head of the Kyiv city military, said preliminary information identified the weapons as Iranian-made Shahed exploding drones. Its the first time in 12 days that the Russian forces have used the weapons to attack Kyiv, Popko said.

As the region nears 500 days since Russias invasion of its neighbor last year, Ukraine is in the early stages of its much-anticipated counteroffensive, and Moscow has continued shelling throughout the country.

Officials reported more civilian casualties from Russian shelling in the countrys east and south on Friday and Saturday. Shelling continued in some places Sunday.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Russia searching for two armed deserters near Sea of Azov coast

Abandoned Russian positions near Bakhmut, Donetsk Oblast

The Russian military is carrying out searches in all the settlements of the northern coast of the Sea of Azov after two deserters fled their units in the town of Urzuf in Donetsk Oblast, Mariupol mayor advisor Petro Andriushchenko reported on Telegram on July 1.

"The Special Purposes Mobile Unit (OMON) from St. Petersburg, which is currently based in Mariupol, finally has a job to do," Andriushchenko wrote.

Read also: Blasts rock occupied Myrne, Tokmak in Zaporizhzhya Oblast, Melitopol mayor says

Russias OMON units typically served as armed riot police.

Earlier, Ukraines National Resistance Center reported that Russian convict soldiers had deserted near Lyman, also in Donetsk Oblast, killing three Russian regulars in their flight.

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The Kakhov reservoir is gradually turning into a desert

Since the Russians blew up the Kakhovka Hydroelectric Power Plant and its dam, the Kakhovka Reservoir has practically returned to being a stretch of the Dnipro River, environmental experts revealed on June 21.

The experts, from the Ukrainian Hydrometeorological Institute of the State Emergency Service of Ukraine and the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, have been studying the effects of the sudden draining of the reservoir, which started on June 6 with the Russians destruction of the Kakhovka Reservoir dam.

Scientists at the Ukrainian Hydrometeorological Institute processed spectral-zone images of the Kakhovka Reservoir provided by the European Space Agency.

Read also: Shocking photos of shallowed Kakhovka Reservoir published online

According to the images, a large part of the reservoir area now has a light brown color, which is typical for a dry surface. Not only is it devoid of water, but it has physically dried up.

In addition, scientists predict that parts of the reservoir will dry up in the dry season, but be filled with water in the wet season.

Before the dam was blown up by the Russians, the reservoirs water surface area was 2,061 square kilometers.

As of June 20, it had shrunk to less than a quarter of that  509.2 square kilometers.

Kakhovka HPP  What is known about the explosion

During the night of June 6, Russian forces, which have occupied the town of Nova Kakhovka for over a year, blew up the dam, completely or partially flooding downstream cities and towns along the Dnipro River, including the regional capital of Kherson.

Read also: Photos reveal drastic changes to Kakhovka Reservoir as water levels drop

At an urgent meeting of Ukraines National Security and Defense Council, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy ordered the evacuation of at-risk areas and the provision of drinking water to towns and villages served by the affected Kakhovka Reservoir.

President Zelenskyy called Russia's attack on the Kakhovka Hydroelectric Power Plant and dam the largest man-made environmental disaster in Europe in decades.

The Ukrainian Prosecutor General's Office has opened an investigation on the incident under the charge of ecocide.

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Russian forces attack Nikopol once again, damaging a church, an administrative building and private houses

On Saturday, 1 July, Russian forces once again attacked the city of Nikopol in Dnipropetrovsk Oblast, damaging a canteen, a church, an administrative building, and several private houses.

Source: Serhii Lysak, Head of the Dnipropetrovsk Oblast Military Administration, on Telegram

Quote: "Russian monsters know no limits. They continue to deploy artillery to ruthlessly destroy Nikopol. Today they fired 10 shells on the city.

No one was injured or killed, but the city sustained damage.

A canteen, an administrative building and a church were damaged, as were eight private houses, two outbuildings and several cars."

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Russian 'troll factory' accused of interfering in US elections shuts down after exile of Wagner boss

Media outlets connected to Prigozhin were shut down on Friday, and his catering firm lost all of its billion-dollar government contracts on Saturday. SERGEI ILNITSKY/POOL/AFP via Getty Images

Russia's "troll factory," accused of interfering in US elections, has been shut down.

The factory was created by Yevgeny Prigozhin, the now-exiled leader of the Wagner mercenary group.

Russia is stripping the Wagner chief of his influence and finances after his short-lived rebellion last week.

The Russian "troll factory" used to meddle in US elections has been shut down.

The demise of the influential Internet Research Agency came a week after its founder, Yevgeny Prigozhin, led his Wagner mercenary organization on a mutinous march that ended just hours from Moscow. As part of a deal to end the rebellion, Prigozhin was exiled to Belarus.

Since then, Russian authorities have moved to strip the Wagner boss of his influence and finances. The Moscow Times reported last week that  with Prigozhin gone  the Internet Research Agency was looking for new management. But over the weekend, the infamous troll farms were officially disbanded, Reuters reported.

The United States levied sanctions against the Internet Research Agency in 2018, accusing the group of creating and managing numerous fake online social media accounts, some of which posed as "legitimate" grassroots organizations, interest groups, and even a state political party. Those accounts organized political rallies and used the personal information of US citizens to open financial accounts, which funded the agency's own operations. The US Treasury Department said the effort reached "millions of people."

Prigozhin confirmed he created the Internet Research Agency earlier this year, The Moscow Times reported. "I was never just a financier of the Internet Research Agency," he said. "I invented it. I created it. I ran it for a long time."

All Prigozhin-owned media also shut down

Along with his troll factories, Prigozhin's entire media portfolio closed over the weekend.

Yevgeny Zubarev  the director of RIA FAN, a Prigozhin-owned outlet within his larger Patriot Media Group  announced the decision to "leave the country's information space," according to Reuters, citing a video shared on Saturday.

The announcement came after Russian news sources reported the suspension of any and all media outlets connected to Prigozhin.

Across the board, those media outlets were nationalist and provided "positive coverage of Prigozhin and his Wagner Group" and were often also pro-Kremlin, Reuters reported. Outlets like RIA FAN attacked Prigozhin's rivals, like St. Petersburg Gov. Aleksandr Beglov, Radio Free Europe reported.

Nevskiye Novosti, a Patriot Media Group newspaper located in St. Petersburg, announced it shut down on Friday.

"Because we cannot continue working on the Russian Internet or fulfill our obligations to our partners and advertisers, I have made the decision in conjunction with the board of the Patriot group to stop publication as of June 30," Nevskiye Novosti chief editor Andrei Krasnobayev told Radio Free Europe.

Prigozhin's lucrative catering firm loses state contracts

Putin announced an investigation into Prigozhin's catering firm after the failed Wagner mutiny. Sputnik, Kremlin Pool Photo via AP, File

After Wagner's stunning mutiny, Russian President Vladimir Putin announced an investigation into Prigozhin's catering firm.

According to Reuters, Putin said Concord Catering made almost a billion US dollars from government contracts to supply food to the Russian army.

"I do hope that, as part of this work, no one stole anything, or, let's say, stole less, but we will, of course, investigate all of this," Putin said, according to Reuters.

After spending time in prison, Prigozhin got back on his feet by starting a hot dog stand, which he parlayed into a series of restaurants and eventually a catering company. Concord Catering quickly became a Putin favorite, earning Prigozhin government contracts and a close relationship with the Russian president.

Prigozhin eventually became known as "Putin's Chef" and used the connection to expand his business empire and his influence.

Concord has now lost all of its lucrative catering contracts, according to The Telgraph, which reported on Sunday that the catering firm would no longer be working for the Russian defense ministry, citing local media.

Prigozhin's catering deals were just some of the more than 5,000 state contracts he received over the years.

Investigative reporting from Current Time TV, a Russian-language news outlet based in Prague and controlled by the US government, estimated that since 2011, those contracts have totaled about 209 billion rubles, or just over $2.3 billion.

Read the original article on Business Insider
On the night of 1-2 July, after an air-raid warning was issued in Kyiv because of the threat of Russian UAVs, explosions occurred in Kyiv. The Air Force reported that air defence systems were operating.

Source: Air Force of Ukraine; Kyiv City Military Administration; Kyiv Oblast Military Administration

Quote from the Air Force: "Air defence is operating in Kyiv! Stay in shelters!"

Details: Subsequently, the air defence operation was reported by the Kyiv City Military Administration and the Kyiv Oblast Military Administration.

They also urged citizens not to photograph or film the work of Ukrainian defenders.

In addition, they reminded people to stay in shelters during air-raid warnings.

At 03:20, an all-clear was given in Kyiv.

Journalists fight on their own frontline. Support Ukrainska Pravda or become our patron!
Russians shelled Kostiantynivka: two wounded, one of them in serious condition

Two people have been injured in the shelling of Kostantinovka in Donetsk Oblast on Sunday, one of them is in serious condition.

Source: Oleksiy Roslov, head of the Kostiantynivka City Military Administration, in a comment for Suspilne Donbas

Quote: "At about 19:40, the Russian military shelled the city of Kostiantynivka. As a result of the shelling, two people have been wounded. The man is in serious condition, the woman is in stable condition."

Details: According to the head of the Kostiantynivka City Military Administration, six private houses and an outbuilding were damaged.

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More than a dozen people injured after vehicle crashes into Laconia, NH restaurant, police say

More than a dozen people were taken to hospitals after a vehicle crashed into an establishment in Laconia, New Hampshire as people were enjoying the holiday weekend on Sunday, police said.

Three people suffered serious but non-life-threatening injuries following the crash at the Looney Bin Bar and Grill on Endicott Street North early Sunday afternoon, Police Chief Matt Canfield told Boston 25.

Twelve or 13 people were taken to area hospitals with minor injuries, Canfield said. The victims conditions were not known on Sunday.

Emergency crews responded to the Looney Bin Bar and Grill after police received reports of a motor vehicle crash there at 12:47 p.m., Canfield said.

The crash occurred while other vehicles were coming and going in the area, the police chief said.

A vehicle was pulling out of Funspot and turning left. There was another vehicle in the center lane, and the vehicle pulling out of Funspot didnt see a third vehicle coming, causing a collision and causing the third vehicle to go into the restaurant, Canfield said.

That third vehicle, a gray Acura sedan, crashed right into the the busy establishment, he said.

Its a very small establishment, so there were a number of people right inside the establishment, Canfield said.

Where the vehicle collided with the building, theres a big window inside the establishment, a bar top and right behind that the actual bar, there were people right there where the vehicle crashed into it, Canfield said.

Police do not believe speed or alcohol were factors in the crash, he said.

No charges or citations have been issued at this time and the crash remains under investigation, Canfield said.

The building is stable and the road will reopen soon, police said.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available.

Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts.

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Before Sharknado, there was an actual 'gater-nado' in South Carolina

This Day In Weather History is a daily podcast by Chris Mei from The Weather Network, featuring stories about people, communities and events and how weather impacted them.

--

On Sunday, July 2, 1843, an alligator showed up in downtown Charleston, S.C. According to a newspaper clipping from the Time-Picayune in New Orleans, the alligator rained down from above.

The article talks about the weather conditions on that day, and does so with 1843 charm, "Sunday week was a day terrible for its heats in Charleston, S. C.," it reads. "But towards night the oppressiveness of the weather was relieved by a thunderstorm, of which, and a ludicrous incident connected therewith, the Mercury gives the following account."

So in today's less romantic speak, it was hot. The article says "The whole firmament growled thunder and shot lightning...St. Paul's Church was struck, but not seriously injured. Beyond this we have heard of no casualty, unless we may account as such the raining down of an alligator about two feet long."

The article says that the alligator ended up at Wentworth and Anson street, which is around a kilometre away from a body of water.

Though several people saw the alligator hanging out downtown, the article shares that "We have not been lucky enough to find any one who saw him come downbut the important fact that he was there is incontenstibleand as he couldn't have got there any other way, it was decided unanimously that he rained down."

The theory is the alligator made it to the downtown area of Charleston via waterspout. The waterspout could have formed over a river or creek, picking up the gator and dropping him off on land.

The paper also shares that "the beast has a look of wonder and bewilderment about him, that showed plainly enough he must have gone through a remarkable experience."

To learn more about the day it rained an alligator, listen to today's episode of "This Day In Weather History."

Subscribe to 'This Day in Weather History': Apple Podcasts | Amazon Alexa | Google Assistant | Spotify | Google Podcasts | iHeartRadio | Overcast'

Thumbnail: Courtesy of Pixabay
Apology and reparations

On Juneteenth, consider what made Frederick Douglass great confused me, at first. Why would someone from The Heritage Foundation, one of the most conservative think tanks in America, extol a Black civil rights champion? In paragraph 6, the author makes his point: (Douglass) could have argued  as some do today  that because former slaves suffered injustice, they should now have a turn to benefit from it. He then applauds Douglass for taking a higher road and letting it go.

Paying reparations to the descendants of slaves is a hot topic, and will become more so in the near future. Its been done before, with the example of payments to survivors of World War II Japanese internment camps. At first, they said an apology was enough, but Congressman Norman Mineta, who headed the effort, said no, Americans dont respect an apology without compensation. Its always about the money in America. Thats why we have Elon Musk, Jeff Bezos and other billionaires trying to outdo each other to become the first trillionaire. Just think, its estimated to cost us about $1.5 trillion to pay those whose ancestors built America with their slave labor.

Harold Crumpley, Modesto

Have some compassion, county

re Couple battles Stanislaus Countys eminent domain action (Front page, June 9-10): Who cares about Stanislaus Countys decision to exercise eminent domain? I do, and many others Ive spoken to regarding the lack of consideration and compassion for the plight of the Bachs, longtime residents of Modesto wishing to live out their days on the property theyve owned and enjoyed for more than 50 years.

Isnt there some solution that takes into consideration their age and value of the property? Can the community rise up and voice objection to such an outrageous and inhumane decision by county officials?

Donna K. Bradley, Modesto

Psychedelic therapy

Senate Bill 58 is a sensible and cost-effective bill that will promote decriminalization of psychoactive non-addictive substances scientifically proven to effectively treat PTSD, depression, addictive disorders, and other debilitating mental illnesses.

Oregon and Colorado are on the progressive and science-proven track to help society advance and improve mental health treatments in our current state of mental health crisis. People who need education on this important subject can tap into the sciences at maps.org (Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies). The recent Psychedelic Sciences Conference in Denver had over 12,000 attendees from medicine, science, psychiatry, psychology, psychotherapy, treatment programs, education, politics, and indigenous communities.

Psychoactive science is the new wave of medical science and effective treatments that are moving us forward to a healthier and more enlightened society. Encourage your elected state representatives to vote for SB 58.

Daniel Bruce, Modesto

Need tests for leaders





I dont know about all America-loving people out there, but I am extremely unhappy and tired of all the lying people holding any position of authority or power, from school boards to city council members on up to the White House. If you get voted into a position that is paid for by taxpayers, you should have to take a polygraph test on a yearly basis. And all tests should be videotaped and the public should be able to watch. If anyone feels they have to plead the Fifth, they should be fired and never be able to hold any position of authority ever again. This includes all of Congress. Start with Biden.

Lets divide our country down the middle so all Democratic-minded people go to their states, and all Republican-minded to theirs. I bet the Republican side would survive and the Democrats would implode. Its shameful how the left is destroying our great nation.

Donald B. Balmain, Salida

Cant trust Biden

Joe Biden is the most corrupt president in American history.

A highly reputable IRS whistleblower has testified to Congress that Biden sat in a room  blocks from the White House  while his son Hunter messaged a Chinese Communist Party official. The younger Biden told Henry Zhao, who has had deep ties to Chinese military intelligence: I am sitting here with my father and would like to understand why the commitment (for money) made has not been fulfilled. Tell the director that I would like to resolve this now before it gets out of hand, and now means tonight. And, Z, if I get a call or text from anyone involved in this other than you, Zhang, or the chairman, I will make certain that between the man sitting next to me and every person he knows and my ability to forever hold a grudge that you will regret not following my direction.

Within 10 days of Hunter Bidens message, a CEFC subsidiary sent $5.1 million to accounts linked to Hunter Biden. The Bidens have received tens of millions of dollars from China.

Elizabeth Best, Tracy

A match made in MAGA

Its 2023 and our government still has not charged Trump with sedition. He has the temerity to smugly run for president, funded by blood money willingly donated by those who openly supported his MAGA terrorist Jan. 6 attack on our capitol. Sulking and pouting since his 2020 loss to Biden, Trump has been drooling droplets of seditious saliva as he awaits the opportunity to mount a blitzkrieg against our democratic electoral process. To bolster his chances, Trump is relying on his female counterpart, Arizonian Kari Lake. Like Trump, Lake must continuously feed and stroke her Olympian-sized ego while her malnourished, pea-sized intellect continues to evaporate. Together they represent MAGAs ideal master-race partnership.

When Trump loses the 2024 election, he will once again give the order to unleash his personal kristallnacht upon our nations capitol, spearheaded by the Proud Boys, Oath Keepers, QAnon and unpaid Trump mercenaries. Will Americans be able to defeat fascism again?

Brooks Judd, Turlock
A slight majority of Americans in a new poll agree with the Supreme Courts decision to banish race as a factor in college admissions, but many are still divided on other notable cases.

The new ABC News/Ipsos poll released Sunday found that 52 percent say they agree with the decision to upend affirmative action, with 32 percent disapproving. Thirteen percent say they dont know.

Pollsters said the underlying sentiments may include views on the relative challenges of different racial or ethnic groups to get into college. While most white Americans believe that people of all racial backgrounds have an equal chance of getting into college, most Black Americans believe that is not the case.

Pollsters said a majority of Black Americans indicate they have an unfair disadvantage when it comes to college admissions, with Latino Americans holding a similar view.

While a majority of respondents seem to agree with that decision, Americans are still split on others.

When it comes to the high courts decision to strike down President Bidens student loan forgiveness plan, 45 say they agree. However, 40 percent say they disagree with the decision, with 14 percent saying they do not know.

Respondents are almost equally split on the Supreme Courts decision that a website designer could deny services to same-sex customers, with 43 percent approving, and 42 percent disapproving. Fourteen percent say they dont know.

Those two decisions, pollster say, appears to be more strongly connected to partisanship with large differences between Republicans and Democrats.

Republicans overwhelmingly approved of the high courts decision to allow people to deny services to same-sex couples, with 68 percent approving of the decision compared to only 15 percent of Democrats.

In a similar sense, 71 percent of Republicans also approved of the Supreme Courts decision to overturn Bidens student loan forgiveness plan, compared to 17 percent of Democrats.

The high-profile case decisions caused a stir in Washington last week. President Biden said in a reaction to the courts decision that it may do too much harm, also telling reporters that this is not a normal court.

The polling was conducted June 30 to July 1, 2023 after the Supreme Court ruled on each of the cases last week. It was conducted on a sample of 937 adults and has a margin of error of 3.6 points.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
(Bloomberg) -- South Africas power generation system is recovering and thats been reflected in fewer power cuts recently, according to the minister of electricity.

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Its no accident that the country has seen a recent reduction in so-called load-shedding, as South Africa has managed to boost its generation to over 29,900 megawatts, with demand at around 30,000 megawatts, Kgosientso Ramokgopa said at a media briefing in Pretoria on Sunday.

South Africa now has electricity available to its citizens for about two-thirds of each day, he said, after an extended period in which power cuts needed to be implemented for as long as 12 hours a day.

Electricity generation is now beginning to keep up with demand, said Ramokgopa at the briefing. We will resolve load-shedding.

Africas most industrialized nation has been subject to electricity outages since 2008 because state utility Eskom Holdings SOC Ltd. has been unable to meet demand for power from its old and poorly maintained plants.

With a deepening power crises in recent years, President Cyril Ramaphosa made some key appointments at the utilitys board and created the position of electricity minister to focus on the problems. The shortage of electricity has pushed up the cost of doing business and curbed the growth of the South African economy.

Work is underway to get the country toward 70% energy availability by the end of the year, said Ramokgopa. Plans to get additional units to work at Kusile and Medupi, the countrys two newest coal-fired power stations, will add another 4,000 megawatts to the grid during the year, he said.

South Africa is currently sitting at 60% energy availability, up from about 48% before the latest interventions, said Ramokgopa. The countrys utility has ramped up maintenance of its aging fleet, even during winter when demand for electricity picks up.

Large-scale renewable energy projects are also starting to come on line. Connecting the new plants to the national grid makes an upgrade of the transmission system more urgent, the minister said. Ramokgopa said options to finance South Africas need for additional grid were being considered, including tapping into the liquidity of the private sector, without relinquishing state control.

Read more: Eskoms Generation Business to Hold Majority of $24 Billion Debt

The utility has set aside 72 billion rand ($3.8 billion) over the next three years to fund its transmission development plan, he said.

We are beginning to state the case to not kick the can down the road, because we are going to sit with a transmission problem, said Ramokgopa. The biggest risk to any remote possibility of the grid collapsing is not on the generation side, it would be on the transmission side.

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South Korea is cutting killer questions from an 8-hour exam some blame for a fertility rate crisis

Raising a child in South Korea is no easy task. By the time their toddlers can walk, many parents have already begun scouting out elite private preschools.

Their goal? That by the time these toddlers turn 18 they will have grown into students able to ace the countrys notoriously uncompromising, eight-hour national college entrance exam known as the Suneung and win their place in a prestigious university.

But getting to this point involves an arduous, expensive journey that takes its toll on both parents and children alike. Its a system widely blamed by researchers, policymakers, teachers and parents for a litany of problems, from inequality in education to mental illness in the young and even the countrys plummeting fertility rate.

Hoping to solve some of these issues, the South Korean government took a controversial step this week: making the college entrance exam easier.

Officials will remove so-called killer questions from the Suneung, also known as the College Scholastic Ability Test (CSAT), Education Minister Lee Ju-ho said in a news briefing Monday.

These notoriously difficult questions sometimes include material that isnt covered in public school curricula, Lee said, lending an unfair advantage to students with access to private tutoring. He added that while it was a personal choice for parents and children to seek tutoring, many feel forced to do so due to the intense competition to do well in the exam.

The ministry seeks to break the vicious cycle of private education that increases the burden for parents and subsequently erodes fairness in education, Lee vowed.

Families pray for their children's success in the college entrance exam on November 17, 2022 at the Jogyesa temple in Seoul. - Anthony Wallace/AFP/Getty Images/File

Mind-bending questions and a life-changing exam

By the time South Korean teenagers enter high school, much of their lives revolve around academic results and preparing for the day of the CSAT  a date that is widely seen as making or breaking ones future.

They have good reason to be anxious; the killer questions range from headache-inducing advanced calculus to obscure literary excerpts.

The ministry published several sample questions this week, drawn from past CSAT tests and mock exams, to illustrate the types of problems that would be removed in future tests.

One question, combining math concepts such as the differentiation of composite functions, was deemed more complicated than those covered in public schools, which can cause psychological burden on test takers, the ministry wrote. Another sample question asked test takers to analyze a lengthy passage about the philosophy of consciousness.

A woman attaches a name card wishing for good results for students in South Korea's college entrance exam, at a temple in Seoul on November 18, 2021. - Jung Yeon-je/AFP/Getty Images/File

In the face of such tough odds, most Korean students enroll in extra tutoring or classes at private cram schools known as hagwons. Its common for students to go from their regular school classes straight to evening hagwon sessions, and then to continue studying by themselves into the early morning hours.

As a result, the hagwon industry in South Korea is massive, and profitable. In 2022, South Koreans spent a total of 26 trillion won (almost $20 billion) on private education, according to the Ministry of Education.

Thats almost as much as the GDP of such nations as Haiti ($21 billion) and Iceland ($25 billion).

Last year, the average student across elementary, middle and high schools spent 410,000 Korean won (about $311) per month on private education, said Lee  the highest figure since the education ministry began tracking figures in 2007.

Cycle of inequality

Hagwons have become so prevalent in South Korea that last year 78.3% of all students from elementary to high school participated in private education, according to the education ministry. That places huge pressure on the few families and students who cant afford the extra classes.

And the competition for university admission is steeper in a country where nearly 70% of students enter higher education  a higher proportion than in other wealthy nations, with the United States at 51% and the United Kingdom at 57%, according to the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD).

Its why many South Korean parents, across various income brackets, pour their resources into their childrens education, for fear they will fall behind otherwise.

But this system deepens and perpetuates educational inequality, experts argue. The burden is significantly higher for poorer families, who tend to spend a much higher proportion of their income on their childrens education compared to wealthier households. And still, the playing field remains uneven, with studies showing a clear gap in student achievement between low and high income families.

Children study at a private hagwon academy in Seoul, South Korea, on August 10, 2016. - Yelim Lee/AFP/Getty Images

On Monday, the education minister singled out hagwons for criticism, accusing them of being private education cartels that profit off the anxiety of parents and students.

Parents, teachers and educational professionals all want the government to take an active role so that private education can be absorbed into the (public) school education, Lee said, promising to make the system fair and to eradicate hagwon culture.

To this end, the government has set up a temporary call center for residents to report wrongdoings by hagwons and private academies, he said.

He added that the government will also provide more after-school and tutoring programs within the public sector, and provide better childcare services to prevent students from being cornered into attending hagwons.

The cost of excellence

This educational rat race also takes a heavy toll on both students and parents.

Critics have long argued that the burden on students is one factor driving a mental health crisis in the country, which has the highest suicide rate among OECD nations.

Last year, the Ministry of Health warned that the suicide rate was increasing among teenagers and young adults in their 20s, partly due to the lingering effects of the pandemic.

A 2022 government survey added to the grim picture. Of the nearly 60,000 middle and high school students surveyed nationwide, almost a quarter of males and one in three females reported experiencing depression.

In a previous report, nearly half of Korean youth aged 13 to 18 cited education as their biggest worry.

Education weighs heavily for parents, too. Experts believe the staggering expenses are a major factor behind South Koreans growing reluctance to have children  along with other burdens like long working hours, stagnant wages and sky-high housing costs.

South Korea is regularly ranked the most expensive place in the world to raise a child from birth to age 18, in large part due to the cost of education. Many couples feel they must focus their resources on just one child, if they have kids at all.

Last year, the countrys fertility rate, already the worlds lowest, fell to a record low of 0.78  not even half the 2.1 needed for a stable population and far below even that of Japan (1.3), currently the worlds grayest nation.

The costs of child-raising are high, and represent a large part of the budget of low-income families. Without additional income, having a child leads to a lower standard of living, and low-income families face a poverty risk, said the OECD in a 2018 paper, adding that giving up or postponing childbearing is one way to avoid poverty.

The government itself has long grappled with this issue, saying in 2008 that families were heavily burdened by excessive spending in childcare and education. Without new policies to reduce this burden, the country risks further exacerbating the problem of low birth rates in our society, it warned.

A step in the right direction?

Efforts to fix the problem so far have proved largely ineffective. The government has spent more than $200 billion over the past 16 years to encourage more people to have children, with little to show for it.

Activists say South Korea needs deeper change instead, such as dismantling entrenched gender norms and introducing more support for working parents.

Targeting the CSAT, some hope, could be a step in that direction. Some groups, such as the civic organization The World Without Worry About Private Education, welcomed the decision, saying it was necessary to prevent children from being immersed in excessive competition.

A mother prays for her child ahead of South Korea's college entrance examinations at a Buddhist temple in Seoul on November 12, 2015. - Kim Hong-Ji/Reuters

But others arent convinced, with some critics online calling it a surface-level solution to a more complex issue, coming as the government looks to shore up support ahead of next years general election.

And many high school seniors, preparing to take the exam in November, have complained they feel blindsided by the abrupt change after spending years studying material they thought would be included. Some agreed the private education sector needed reform, but doubted the effectiveness of this move.

From the standpoint of a current high school senior, I dont think private tutoring will decrease just because killer questions are eliminated, one user posted on Instagram.

Another wrote on Twitter: I think the way to get rid of the private education craze is not to remove killer questions or lower the difficulty of the CSAT, but to improve the job market environment where regardless of your educational background, you can work at a safe place, receive a sufficient wage, and have human rights guaranteed.

CNNs Gawon Bae contributed reporting.

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(Bloomberg) -- Rishi Sunak is considering scrapping an environmental law dating back to UK membership of the European Union, as his government faces pressure to build more houses while fending off a voter backlash on pollution.

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The prime ministers team is looking at using his flagship regeneration bill to override a 2018 ruling that effectively bans housebuilding in areas where it risks polluting rivers and waterways, people familiar with the matter said. The proposed move comes after the Home Builders Federation lobby group blamed the nutrient neutrality rule for preventing construction of 120,000 homes.

Britains housing shortage is a contentious political issue ahead of a general election expected in 2024, with the Conservatives under fire after backing away from a manifesto pledge to build 300,000 homes a year.

Many Tory MPs in more affluent areas object to building in their districts, after seeing the previously safe seat of Chesham and Amersham flip to the Liberal Democrats in a special election in 2021. Sunaks party faces by-elections in three seats this month after sitting Tory MPs resigned.

Still, their squeamishness on housebuilding has left the Conservatives vulnerable to the poll-leading Labour Partys promise to boost supply. Labour leader Keir Starmer spent the weekly Prime Ministers Questions on Wednesday trying to capitalize, telling Sunak in one heated exchange: The ambitions of families across the country have been crushed by his failing Tory government.

But if Sunak waters down environmental laws to try to reclaim the housing narrative, he risks drawing attention to the Tories poor record on pollution, which cost them votes in Mays local elections as #TorySewageParty and other hashtags trended on Twitter. It would also likely break another manifesto promise not to lower UK environmental standards below the EUs after Brexit.

Read More: Sunak Shows Frustration as Torrid June Has UK Cabinet on Edge

The subject of housebuilding crystallizes the principal electoral challenge facing the Conservative Party: do they prioritize the interests of the already propertied, or the interests of those currently unable to get onto the property ladder? said James Vitali, a research fellow at the Policy Exchange think tank.

Set against the now-dropped 300,000 annual target, the number of homes HBF said were blocked under the pollution rule barely scratches the surface. Its impact is also localized, typically in areas close to river catchment run-offs such as Kent and Wales  though more areas of western and northern England have seen the rule applied in recent years, the lobby group said.

In Kents Stodmarsh catchment, a nature reserve near the River Stour about 5 miles (8 kilometers) from Canterbury, HBF said 35,000 homes are delayed  over a quarter of the total in its report. It accused Natural England, the public body mandated with protecting the environment, of using the nutrient neutrality rule to completely block building in Stodmarsh and similar areas.

Natural Englands stance stems from a 2018 European Court of Justice ruling making it unlawful to release nutrients  such as nitrates and phosphates found in wastewater or sewage  into protected sites already in an unfavorable condition. It disputes the HBF figure, but also insists housebuilding must be compatible with legally binding targets to improve the environment.

Read More: Home Buyers Thwarted by System That Cant Build Enough Houses

The governments so-called Levelling Up bill, which it is considering using to change the nutrient neutrality rule, is currently in front of the House of Lords. The proposal would also need separate legislation to scrap the law completely, a person familiar with the matter said, when asked about timing.

The government remains committed to delivering housing in areas impacted by nutrient neutrality and is supporting local authorities and developers, a spokesperson for the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs said in an email when asked about the plan. We recognize the urgency of this issue and have taken substantial steps to both unlock housing now and to address the underlying causes of nutrient pollution at source.

The HBF typically represents developers who say the rule is unfairly applied. Housebuilders wanting to build on affected sites must mitigate their pollution by building wetlands or other environmental projects, adding as much as 25,000 ($32,000) per home to win permission, according to the group. The government has also set up a program offering nutrient credits to developers, working with farmers to mitigation projects.

But the group argues the nutrient neutrality rule compounds existing hurdles to housebuilding, such as supply constraints, a growing regulatory burden and an underfunded planning system, it said.

It can be especially difficult for local or smaller developers who cant find sites for an offset project nearby. If youre a footloose developer with no particular ties to an area, youre probably going to build in regions which arent affected by the rules, said Andrew Watson, a planning director at broker Savills Plc. A lot of developers do not have that privilege.

Read More: London Water Crisis Exposes Broken Britain Risk for Sunak

Tory MPs calling for housebuilding regulations to be eased are influential in Sunaks governing party. They argue its central to the 2019 manifesto commitment to boost deprived areas of the country. Home ownership is also a central tenet of the partys doctrine since the days of Margaret Thatcher.

We need to find a way to lift this blockage, said Theresa Villiers, who was environment secretary in the early months of Boris Johnsons administration.

John Fuller, Conservative leader of South Norfolk District Council in eastern England, told MPs the nutrient rule could cause a socio-economic disaster for affected families and businesses, and that blame for polluted waterways should fall on the government and water companies. Phosphorous produced in building 40 to 50 homes could be carried in two carrier bags, he said.

Read More: Britain Comes to Terms With Its New Water Poor Reality

The entire premise that stopping building a few bungalows is going to clean up the rivers is unsound, he said in a submission to Parliament in April.

But Fullers pollution reference illustrates the risk for the Conservatives. Though developers and even some green charities say the biggest problem facing waterways is agriculture, the government would still risk negative headlines if it is perceived to be watering down environmental protection.

In an emailed statement, Natural England said it is also working with the farmers to reduce pollution, and that cleaning up rivers requires comprehensive action across sectors.

But according to Shaun Spiers at the Green Alliance think tank, the HBF has a long track record of resisting forward-looking regulation, whether on building regulations, affordability quotas, energy efficiency or housing density. He said housebuilders should factor regulations into their business models, as the best already do, and get on with building the new homes the country needs.

The government is also under pressure to deal with the threat of water shortages, underdeveloped pipes and treatment plants, which frequently cause raw sewage to be dumped in the nations rivers. UK water companies apologized in May and laid out a multibillion-pound plan to curb sewage spillage into Englands rivers after months of public outcry, a move thats likely to hit households with higher bills.

Read More: Summers Barely Begun and the UK Already Has a Water Crisis

Ministers have also proposed regulations to ensure new housing projects build soakaways and tanks to catch wastewater so it can be reused, and pledged to streamline planning rules so new reservoirs can be built more quickly.

According to Vitali at Policy Exchange, the release of nutrients is damaging biodiversity and that preventing it is a key issue. The problem, though, is that regulators are failing to balance this objective against other equally pressing concerns, like the severe shortage in housing, he said.

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Stanley Tucci says straight actors should be able to play gay roles: Thats the whole point of acting

Stanley Tucci has waded into the debate surrounding straight actors playing gay roles.

In recent years, its been suggested by some, including Doctor Who showrruner Russell T Davies, that gay characters should be played by gay actors to make the performance more authentic.

Following this, Glee actor Darren Criss, who is straight, vowed to no longer take on queer roles.

Tucci, who played a gay man in The Devil Wears Prada and Harry Macqueens drama Supernova, said during an appearance on Desert Island Discs that he does not think that gay roles should be exclusively played by gay actors.

Obviously, I believe thats fine, and I am always very flattered when gay men come up to me and talk to me about The Devil Wears Prada or Supernova, and say, You did it the right way, he said, adding: Because often its not done the right way.

But I really do believe that an actor is an actor is an actor  that youre supposed to play different people. You just are. Thats the whole point of it.

Some actors, including The Danish Girl star Eddie Redmayne, have denounced their past roles in the wake of the ongoing debate.

However, Ben Whishaw, who co-starred in the film about transgender artist Lili Elbe, said Redmayne did a beaustiful job, adding that he doesnt believe a performers sexuality should limit what characters they play.

However, he acknowledged why some people might have an issue, stating: Im critical if I dont think the performance is, from my subjective experience, accurate. I might think, I dont believe you! And even a small moment of hesitation or inauthenticity will block my engagement with the whole story. So I understand these questions.
A month after officials lifted a rare public health emergency order at Wayne County's juvenile jail, the facility is again under around-the-clock monitoring by state employees because of a recent incident.

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services confirmed Friday that it reinstated staff monitoring at the Wayne County Juvenile Detention Facility (JDF) on June 20 out of an abundance of caution after being alerted to an incident that is now under investigation by the state.

The state had been stationing staffers at the facility 24 hours a day, seven days a week following the alleged sexual assault of a youth there in March. But when the county rescinded its emergency order early last month, the state stopped that monitoring.

That changed about two weeks later after the county notified the state about an incident that had occurred at the facility. Details about what happened to prompt the renewed monitoring were not released, but the state health department confirmed it is investigating the incident.

MDHHS maintains presence at Wayne County Juvenile Detention Facility to help assure the safety of the youth and staff and to provide support when necessary, MDHHS spokesperson Bob Wheaton said in an email Friday. Currently, MDHHS has one employee at the facility during every shift and we will adjust our presence as needed to support the needs of the facility.

In an email Saturday, county spokesperson Kimberly Harry said: "On June 20, consistent monitoring resumed following an alleged incident, of which we are not at liberty to comment as it is an on-going investigation."

In March, the county issued a public health emergency order at the JDF, which was overcrowded and understaffed. The order came as the facility was dealing with serious problems, including the alleged sexual assault of a 12-year-old boy by other youths at the facility. The alleged attack is still under investigation by Michigan State Police.

The county rescinded the order on June 5, saying more staff had been hired, employee pay was increased and the juvenile population was down.

State health department officials told the Free Press at the time that the situation at the facility had improved enough that there was no longer a need for around-the-clock monitoring.

In light of the public health emergency winding down, DHHS will no longer need to maintain a 24-hour presence at the facility, Suzanna Shkreli, the state's director of juvenile justice reform, told the Free Press in an interview June 2.

Asked when the state would end the 24/7 monitoring, Shkreli said: So June 5 is when the state of emergency ... is set to expire and thats when we intend to wind down our presence there.

Wheaton confirmed 24/7 monitoring by MDHHS at the JDF ended June 5 and resumed on June 20. He said MDHHS recognizes Wayne County has made progress on addressing conditions at the JDF.

MDHHS continues to support Wayne County Juvenile Detention Facility in various ways, including providing resources on technical assistance through the Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention, he said.

In early June, there had been a drop in the juvenile population at the facility, down to 113 around the time the emergency order was lifted. As of Tuesday, the population had grown to 141. That included 65 youths whose cases have been adjudicated.

Statewide, there has been a shortage of facilities where youths who have been ordered into treatment can be sent, sometimes leaving them to languish for months in the juvenile jail while they await placement.

Before the county declared the public health emergency, the Detroit Free Press had been documenting issues at the JDF for months as part of an ongoing investigation that detailed troubling conditions, including lengthy room confinements; youths being denied daily showers, recreation and medication, and the lack of schooling.

More Problems we found at the Wayne County juvenile jail

More: Michigan top health official: Reports from inside Wayne juvenile jail 'highly concerning'

In October, to improve safety, the county moved youths from the old juvenile detention facility in Detroit to the William Dickerson Detention Facility, a vacant adult jail in Hamtramck. But problems continued, including youths regularly breaking out of their rooms.

The issues caught the attention of a state Senate subcommittee, which held a special hearing on the problems in March.

Last month, as the emergency order was coming to an end, Dr. Abdul El-Sayed, director of the county's Department of Health, Human and Veteran Services, said youths were out of their rooms most of the day, getting daily showers and that assaults  both on other youths and staff  were down.

Under the public health emergency order, the county also took measures to improve safety by opening additional pods, where the youths are housed, and by grouping them in smaller numbers by age and alleged offense. Also, Team Wellness Center, a local service provider, was tapped to offer treatment to youths inside of the JDF and through a community day program. According to the county, those services are expected to start this month.

Free Press staff writer Christine MacDonald contributed to this report.

Contact Gina Kaufman: gkaufman@freepress.com. Follow her on Twitter: @ReporterGina.

This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Michigan health department again monitoring Wayne County juvenile jail
Benedict F. Lessing, Jr. is president/CEO of Community Care Alliance.

We are barely six months away from the kind of inclement weather that creates dangerous circumstances for people living outside. What we know is that the number of people living outside, or as the Coalition to End Homelessness characterizes are living in places unfit for human habitation, continues to rise.

Recently, the Boston Globe reported that Massachusetts Gov. Maura Healey approved erecting over 400 temporary shelters sometimes referred to as pallet houses ranging in size from 64 to 100 square feet on public land. The Massachusetts Division of Capital Asset Management and Maintenance, also known as DCAMM, in lieu of the numbers of individuals struggling with homelessness, mental health and addiction, endorses the plan as well as the Executive Office of Health and Human Services. In other words, there is cohesion across state government, a big vision and all hands are on deck.

More: Report finds 15% increase in RIers experiencing homelessness. Here are the numbers.

Rhode Island has encampments all over the state and what is the response? A number of municipalities simply want the unhoused to go away. To where? The crux of this humanitarian crisis is the lack of a coherent vision, plan, coordination and leadership. Blaming the problem on the victims does not make a plan.

Massachusetts is not perfect, there will be public debate and plenty of pushback. The difference however is that state and local governments are taking the problem on. There is recognition that homelessness is a public health crisis, overwhelming hospitals, emergency medical services and public safety. In Rhode Island, we seem to be about optics and false narratives.

A homeless encampment on the State House courtyard last December.

Adding to the complexity, there is a growing number of families with children becoming homeless, often living in cars or worse. At present, the DCYF is pouring resources into sheltering 100+ families working with their thinly stretched community-based providers. This is important to keep families out of the system, particularly foster care placements. However, the stopgap of using hotel rooms to provide shelter is just that. We need better solutions which may require a combination of subsidies and more specialized shelters where families receive stabilization services to prepare them for permanent housing.

In addition to families with children, there are increasing numbers of elderly people that are being squeezed out of housing due to rents they cannot afford as well as individuals with serious health conditions such as COPD, diabetes and cancer. Owing to the dearth of solutions, community-based outreach staff are burned out. They know better than anyone else that compassion only goes so far without resources.

More: Recently closed Charlesgate nursing home will become a homeless shelter for up to 57 families

More: State has new plan for 10 homeless families  here's where they would go

In 2011, the General Assembly passed a statute called the Interagency Council on Homelessness whose mission was specifically to assist this population. The council is supposed to be composed of a spectrum of state agencies whose mandate was to take this problem on. Whereas the newly created Department of Housing is a key player, particularly where emergency shelter and future affordable housing is concerned, it is not sufficient to address the complexity of the problem.

Such a council should be looking at multiple solutions including but not limited to emergency shelter options and low barrier programming, specialized behavioral health facilities cheaper than hospitals but longer term and providing detox as well as substance use and psychiatric stabilization and finally, supported housing. Municipalities must be at the table and provide constructive assistance. The objective should be permanent housing for everyone. The last time the council met was 2014.

We must ask ourselves whether this is the system we want. Is this what human beings deserve? Charity is not the answer, this is a problem we have created, we need to fix it.

This article originally appeared on The Providence Journal: Blaming the problem on the victims does not make a plan.
State program looking to help Ohioans stay cool this summer

A state program is looking to help Ohioans keep cool during the summer months.

The Home Energy Assistance Summer Crisis Program helps Ohioans with electric utility bills, central air condition units and/or fan purchases from July until September.

>> Morning rain impacts Fourth of July weekend parades across region, firework shows continue for some

To be eligible you must have a household income at or below 175 percent of the federal poverty guidelines and have a household member who is either:

60 years of age and older



Can provide physician documentation that cooling assistance is needed for a household members health, or



Households who have a disconnect notice, have been shut off, or are trying to establish new electric service may be eligible for assistance



Enrolling in Percentage of Income Payment Plan Plus (PIPP) for the first time or have a PIPP default

Applications open July 1.

More information on the program can be found here.
After student loan decision, AOC says the Supreme Court is on 'a dangerous creep towards authoritarianism'

Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez had harsh words for the Supreme Court after recent rulings on affirmative action and student loan forgiveness. Nathan Posner/Anadolu Agency via Getty Images

Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez said the Supreme Court is on a "dangerous creep" to authoritarianism.

Speaking to CNN, the New York Democrat said the court is taking over the role of a legislature.

They are "acting as though they are Congress," the lawmaker said, calling it a "dangerous" trend.

The Supreme Court's six conservative justices are on a frightening power trip, Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez said Sunday, arguing that recent decisions on student loans and affirmative action show that the right-wing majority is ignoring the will of elected officials and "beginning to assume the power of a legislature."

Speaking on CNN's "State of the Union," Ocasio-Cortez said the court's recent rulings  striking down both race-based admissions in higher education and President Joe Biden's student loan forgiveness plan  "signal a dangerous creep towards authoritarianism and centralization of power in the court."

"They are expanding their role into acting as though they are Congress itself and that, I believe, is an expansion of power that we really must be focusing on," Ocasio-Cortez, a Democrat from New York, said.

The Supreme Court on Friday ruled that Congress had not intended to authorize Biden's debt relief plan under a 2003 measure known as the HEROES Act. But Ocasio-Cortez said that authorization for the plan could be found in another law passed by Congress, the Higher Education Act. Following the court's decision, the White House announced it would draft a new rule, citing that law, to provide loan forgiveness.

With the pandemic-era pause on loan repayments due to expire later this year, however  and any new debt relief rule, by law, requiring a 12-month wait  Ocasio-Cortez said the administration should at least "consider suspending interest payments."

She also urged her fellow members of Congress to step up their oversight of the nation's highest court, citing the revelation that members such as Clarence Thomas and Samuel Alito failed to report large gifts from influential right-wing donors.

Oversight should include subpoenas, she said, to force the likes of Chief Justice John Roberts to address the court's apparent conflicts of interests. The possibility of removing justices who are found to be corrupt can't be ruled out, she said, arguing there "must be impeachment on the table."

"The Supreme Court has not been receiving the adequate oversight necessary in order to preserve their own legitimacy," she said. "And in the process, they themselves have been destroying the legitimacy of the court, which is profoundly dangerous for our entire democracy."

Read the original article on Business Insider
One of the biggest talking points against investing in government spending is the ineffectiveness of government programs. And oftentimes, theres some truth to that assertion. However, some great U.S. social programs miss many people who need them most  from the 2.1 million low-income Americans falling into the Medicare coverage gap, to the 7.3 million who are not eligible for affordable housing units.

But one coverage gap that doesnt get the attention it deserves is the higher education gap, and its something Ive experienced personally. I grew up in a lower-to-middle income household in the Kansas City area. My family did not have enough extra income to save for my college expenses, but unfortunately, we made too much money for me to qualify for federal Pell Grants, which are awarded based on financial need. This story is true far too often for African Americans, who on average owe nearly double the amount of college debt as their white peers.

So when it came time to pay for college, the federal Free Application for Federal Student Aid program offered me only a low amount of unsubsidized loan money. Every year, I dreaded the application process because I felt so defeated by what my future payments would be. Along with my mother as a co-signer, I signed up for almost six figures in debt for a four-year degree. I understood what I was doing, as much as any 18-year-old understands the terms and conditions of a loan. However, each year I was reminded of the college affordability gap that so many students fall into.

Throughout the 2020 presidential election season, I was optimistic and encouraged about Joe Bidens commitment to forgive some federal student loan debt. His proposal, which the Supreme Court gutted Friday, would have eliminated less than 10% of my debt, leaving me with the remainder in private loans.

While that relief would have been game-changing for me, its not the only solution that can help college graduates enjoy the financial freedom we deserve to contribute to the U.S. economy. With the current burden of student loans affecting at least 44 million borrowers with $1.6 trillion in loans, a range of comprehensive solutions is necessary to solve the problem.

While I am not optimistic about a pathway to eliminating all private student loans, given that private lenders hold less than 10% percent of overall student debt, I believe we must bring together the public and private sectors. Without tangible action, were doing a disservice to future generations, because 100% of student borrowers will continue to be affected by the rising costs of higher education.

I attended a university that offered me in-state tuition rates. Yet I still dug myself into hundreds of thousands of debt, making it tough to take those next steps in life such as building credit or buying a home. Even though my school touted its frozen tuition as a landmark of affordability for multiple years, it continued to increase additional fees, while housing costs continued to rise.

The cost of college has skyrocketed over the past 20 years  but Pell Grants and state tuition programs havent kept up. I believe theres a much simpler and clearer policy solution, it just demands our lawmakers act with the courage to make a change.

The Biden-Harris administration should do more to correct for this problem. The federal government has been able to cap prices, so there is a pathway to capping the cost of higher education at state institutions. If state institutions of higher education can apply for aid that funds 50% of their projects and research grants and pay for high-salary faculty positions, students deserve the ability to access that same funding for their education. If schools want this assistance, they should be required to cap tuition and fees at levels that federal student loans would cover. Multiple states already have statutory power to do this.

Asking for sensible and equitable policies is not asking for a handout. Rather, students want smart and innovative policy solutions with a lasting impact for our lives and future generations.

We dont need excessive means-testing. Rather, we need policies targeting the most marginalized communities. Lets create a new model for inclusive policy that doesnt leave people out.

Kansas City, Kansas, native Taylor Holmes is the founder of The Project for Financial Progress, an initiative to advocate for financial education and responsible lending. She is the former student body president of the University of Illinois at Chicago, where she earned a bachelors degree in political science and public policy.
CAIRO (Reuters) - Clashes between Sudan's army and paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) intensified on Sunday, as the war in the country's capital and western regions entered its 12th week with no attempts in sight to bring a peaceful end to the conflict.

Air and artillery strikes as well as small arms fire could be heard, particularly in the city of Omdurman, as well as in the capital Khartoum, as the conflict deepens a humanitarian crisis and threatens to draw in other regional interests.

The RSF said it brought down an army warplane and a drone in Bahri, in statements to which the army did not immediately respond.

"We're terrified, every day the strikes are getting worse," 25-year-old Nahid Salah, living in northern Omdurman, said by phone to Reuters.

The RSF has dominated the capital on the ground and has been accused of looting and occupying houses, while the army has focused on air and artillery strikes.

Army chief Abdel Fattah al-Burhan last week called on young men to join the fight against the RSF and on Sunday the army posted photos it said were of new recruits.

The Sudanese Doctors Union accused the RSF on Saturday of raiding the Shuhada hospital, one of the few still operating in the country, and killing a staff member. The RSF denied the accusation.

The war has also hit cities in the western Kordofan and Darfur regions, in particular the westernmost city of El Geneina, where the RSF and Arab militias have been accused of ethnic cleansing.

The Combating Violence Against Women Unit, a government agency, said on Saturday it had recorded 88 cases of sexual assault, which it said was a fraction of the likely real total, in Khartoum, El Geneina, and Nyala, capital of South Darfur, with victims in most cases accusing the RSF.

Talks hosted in Jeddah and sponsored by the United States and Saudi Arabia were suspended last month, while a mediation attempt by East African countries was criticised by the army as it accused Kenya of bias.

Last week, army chief Abdel Fattah al-Burhan and his deputy on the country's Sovereign Council Malik Agar expressed openness to any mediation attempts by Turkey or Russia, though no official efforts have been announced.

(Reporting by Khalid Abdelaziz in Dubai, Nafisa Eltahir and Adam Makary in Cairo; Writing by Nafisa Eltahir; Editing by David Holmes)
Excited fans brave downpours to witness NASCAR Chicago Street Race: Ive got to see it; might not be back next year

Downtown Chicago turned into a slick, speed-drenched racetrack Sunday after the NASCAR street race started late following rain delays.

The cars flew through tight turns around Grant Park on roads like DuSable Lake Shore Drive and Michigan Avenue, kicking up mist from the wet courses puddles. Above the zooming cars, the citys picturesque skyscrapers pierced fog clouds still lingering from the afternoons storms.

The stands slowly filled up after the delays. Drivers deftly passed one another in front of the hundreds of fans who braved the showers to watch the spectacle.

NASCAR officials decided to shorten the race from 100 laps to 75 to finish the race before daylight faded, another unprecedented twist for the first NASCAR street race. Shane van Gisbergen of New Zealand, in his first Cup Series start, won the race.

As fan Kevin Malec walked past Buckingham Fountain to watch his favorite driver, Aric Almirola, tear through the course, he said Chicago made a wise decision bringing the sports historic first street race to town.

I dont think NASCAR will ever be the same, he said.

The rain had threatened to stop the race from ever starting earlier in the afternoon. The day had been set to start with the rest of the Xfinity Series Loop 121 race that had been postponed Saturday because of lightning, but NASCAR officials decided to call off the secondary race Sunday morning.

Flash flood warnings were in effect throughout Sunday.

The rain picked up just ahead of the main event Cup Series races scheduled 4 p.m. start time. Water puddled up at the races finish line, where Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson walked under an umbrella into the main drags stands.

Drivers got wet as they walked across the stage for introductions. The few people braving the bad weather in the mostly empty stands then managed scattered applause as NASCARs biggest stars appeared.

Several racers shared concerns before the race delay was announced and again when it was announced that the race would indeed start Sunday.

We cant see in this, so its impossible. I think theres a lot of big puddles on the track too, and well just fly off the road into the barriers, driver Martin Truex Jr. said as he walked to his car.

Pole sitter Denny Hamlin told the Tribune it would be truly unsafe to race as he headed toward his stock car after the introductions.

We should not, he said. Hopefully this is all a formality.

But the rain faded. The crowd stirred as racers headed back toward their cars. Bears quarterback Justin Fields, grand marshal for the Cup Series, gave drivers the signal to fire up their Next Gen stock cars shortly after 5 p.m.

Drivers, start your engines! the star quarterback shouted.

After Hamlin led the drivers through the green flag to start, crashes and caution flags dotted the exciting competition. In the first lap, three drivers crashed. Hamlin slid into a pile of tires early.

Truex Jr. skimmed a wall midway into the race, causing his Bass Pro Shops-marked car to fall back a few spots.

In lap 3, Buschs Chevrolet Camaro impaled a tire barrier. The two-time Cup Series championship winners car was windshield-deep into the barrier before he pulled out and continued racing.

The expert racers faced a gantlet of right turns on the tricky course. The 12-turn, 2.2-mile track was the first street race in NASCAR history.

The drivers picked up speed as the track appeared to dry further into the competition. Pit crews swapped the cars rain tires for faster racing slicks designed with smoother treads.

A NASCAR official told the Tribune the organization had worked closely with the city to decide to start the race. Before the race began, the event organizers used Air Titans to blow water from the courses sodden pavement.

The races intense action was a welcomed spectacle for many of the fans in attendance, some of whom had complained about a perceived lack of communication and accommodation during the delays.

Many fans, like Lincoln Park resident Michael Deutschmann, returned to the course after heading home amid the rain. Others huddled in nearby coffee shops or tents pitched around the track.

I was watching the weather delay, watching the White Sox, saw it came back and hopped on the Brown Line, said Deutschmann, who wore a Polo shirt covered in Chicago-style hotdogs. Ive got to see it; might not be back next year based on all the feedback Ive heard from the city.

In a postrace press conference, NASCAR organizers praised Mayor Brandon Johnson for collaborating on the race. The three-year contract between the Chicago Park District and NASCAR was shepherded by Johnsons predecessor, Lori Lightfoot.

Johnson has expressed some skepticism about fulfilling the contract, which allows both parties to opt out 180 days or more before the next race at no penalty.

NASCAR and the industry put a lot of effort in, but the city certainly put a lot of effort into this event and it showed, said Ben Kennedy, the senior vice president of racing development and strategy for NASCAR.

While Van Ginsbergen showed off smoky burnouts in front of throngs of fans at the victory lane finish line, driver Joey Logano stood by his banged up No. 22 car and echoed criticism he made before the race.

It was still pretty sketchy to start the race, said Logano, who finished eighth. The tracks not the safest track, to start off with. So when you put us in the rain, obviously, were all skeptical of doing it in the dry, and you put us in the rain, its kind of like, You sure? 

Fernando Moran of Oak Park said the chaos of the street course is ideal.

The street ovals are OK, but you need a challenge like this to tell you who the real top drivers are, Moran said.

Randy Christopherson carried an autograph from driver Noah Gragson as he left the Grant Park race course. But the 12-year-olds favorite driver  the one on his white T-shirt, Tyler Reddick  fell back in the pack after slamming into a tire wall.

The young NASCAR fan visiting from Madison, Wisconsin, didnt think the race would start amid the downpour.

I think it went pretty well for it to be pouring for half the day, he said.

Still, Christopherson had his complaints. There could have been more seating to see better and more TVs so fans could tell what was going on out of view, he said.

He was excited to come back next year, he added.

His mom, Kathryn Christopherson, was less sure about coming back next year as she held two soaked rain jackets in a plastic bag and remembered pruny fingers.

Shes 50-50 on returning for another Chicago street race, she said.

She and her son had been standing in the rain since 9 a.m. They saw one race canceled and another cut short. When the next race comes around, the Christophersons might just watch from home, she said.
Photograph: Jim Lo Scalzo/EPA

The US supreme court turned away a case on Friday challenging Mississippis rules around voting rights for people with felony convictions, leaving intact a policy implemented more than a century ago with the explicit goal of preventing Black people from voting.

Those convicted of any one of 23 specific felonies in Mississippi permanently lose the right to vote. The list is rooted in the states 1890 constitutional convention, where delegates chose disenfranchising crimes that they believed Black people were more likely to commit. We came here to exclude the negro. Nothing short of this will answer, the president of the convention said at the time. The crimes, which include bribery, theft, carjacking, bigamy and timber larceny, have remained largely the same since then; Mississippi voters amended it remove burglary in 1950 and added murder and rape in 1968.

Related: US progressives call for urgent actions after court blocks student debt relief

It continued to have a staggering effect in Mississippi. Sixteen per cent of the Black voting-age population remains blocked from casting a ballot, as well as 10% of the overall voting age population, according to an estimate by The Sentencing Project, a criminal justice non-profit. The state is about 38% Black, but Black people make up more than half of Mississippis disenfranchised population.

Challengers to the law argued that the policy was unconstitutional because it bore the discriminatory taint from the 1890 constitution. One of the plaintiffs was Roy Harness, a social worker in his late 60s who is permanently barred from voting because he was convicted of forgery decades ago. Forgery was one of the original crimes included in the list of disenfranchising offenses.

It makes me feel bad. Ive served my country, nation  got a degree and [I] still cant vote, no matter what you do to prove yourself, Harness told the Guardian in 2022.

Once a person loses their right to vote in Mississippi it is essentially impossible to get it back. To do so, a disenfranchised person must get the legislature to approve an individualized bill on their behalf by a supermajority in both chambers and then have the governor approve the bill. There are no online instructions or applications, and lawmakers can reject or deny an application for any reason.

Hardly anyone successfully makes it through the process. Between 1997 and 2022, an average of seven people successfully made it through the process each year, according to Blake Feldman, a criminal justice researcher in Mississippi.

Both a federal district judge and the US court of appeals for the fifth circuit upheld Mississippis policy. The modifications to the policy in 1950 and 1968, the fifth circuit noted, got rid of any discrimination in the original policy.

The supreme court did not say on Friday why it was rejecting the case (it takes four votes on the court to grant review) and Justices Ketanji Brown Jackson and Sonia Sotomayor were the only two justices who noted their dissent from the denial. Jackson wrote an opinion saying the fifth circuit had committed two egregious analytical errors that ought to be corrected.

First, she wrote, even though Mississippi voters removed a crime in 1950 and added two more in 1968, the substance of many of the original crimes from 1890 remained intact. That means that the list is still discriminatory, she wrote in a dissent that was joined by Sotomayor.

The remaining crimes from [the list of crimes] pernicious origin still work the very harm the 1890 Convention intended  denying Black Mississippians the vote, she wrote.

She also took issue with a conclusion from the fifth circuit that the list of crimes would have been enacted absent discriminatory intent. A taskforce and Mississippi lawmakers studied whether to amend the list of crimes in the 1980s, nearly a century after the convention and chose not to. Subsequent legislative attention to Mississippis election laws indicates that Section 241 was carefully evaluated before the legislature opted to leave it unchanged.

The Task Force recommendations and legislative process bespeak the nondiscriminatory motivations of the public and the legislature, the fifth circuit wrote.

Jackson said the proper inquiry for the court would have been to look at whether the convention originally would have enacted the list absent discriminatory intent.

She ended her opinion quoting the majoritys opinion in Thursdays decision ending race-conscious admissions at universities.

The other day, this Court declared that the Constitution deals with substance, not shadows, and the [constitutional] prohibition against racial discrimination is levelled at the thing, not the name, she wrote. There are no shadows in 241, only the most toxic of substances.

Constitutional wrongs do not right themselves. With its failure to take action, the Court has missed yet another opportunity to learn from its mistakes.
The recent rulings of the conservative-dominated Supreme Court are set to take center stage in the battle over the Senate majority, giving Democrats a better chance to keep control of the upper chamber despite President Bidens slumping approval numbers.

This weeks decisions by the court rejecting Bidens student loan forgiveness plan, invalidating university affirmative action policies and allowing small business owners to oppose giving services for same-sex marriages give Democrats an opportunity to play offense.

Democratic candidates can make a straightforward argument on the campaign trail that the courts 6-3 conservative majority, which last year struck down Roe v. Wade and the constitutional right to an abortion, is the direct result of Republican control of the Senate.

No person played a greater role in shaping todays court than Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.), who held the seat of late conservative Justice Antonin Scalia vacant for more than a year in 2016 to prevent then-President Barrack Obama from putting a third justice on the high court.

McConnell proved pivotal four years later when he expedited the confirmation of conservative Justice Amy Coney Barrett through the Senate in the weeks before the 2020 presidential election, flipping the seat long held by late liberal Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg.

Those two seats filled by conservative Justice Neil Gorsuch and Barrett made the difference between what would have been a 5-4 Democratic majority on the court and todays 6-3 conservative majority.

Those maneuvers are reaping huge legal victories for religious and fiscal conservatives on a range of hot-button issues related to abortion, debt forgiveness, racial justice and gay rights.

Democrats say the decisions will put the court itself in the spotlight in next years election and help mobilize their voters in Senate battleground states across the country.

Democrats were already fired up because of Roe v. Wade, said Democratic pollster Celinda Lake. It will mobilize Democrats, particularly Democratic younger women who are already turning out and registering in record numbers.

This is a pattern which just shows a Supreme Court that is taking away our freedoms and moving the country backward and Democrats are very, very strongly engaged and women are very strongly engaged by that narrative, she said.

Democrats say each of the courts controversial decisions will mobilize multiple key constituencies in Senate battlegrounds ranging from younger women and minorities to LGBTQ voters and people with student loan debts.

The court in Dobbs v. Jackson Womens Health Organization last year overturned the right to an abortion.

This month, in Students for Fair Admissions v. Harvard, the six conservative justices struck down affirmative action policies at Harvard and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

In Biden v. Nebraska, the court in a decision released Friday rejected Bidens $400 billion student debt forgiveness plan.

Also on Friday, the conservative majority ruled in 303 Creative LLC v. Elenis to uphold a businesswomans right to deny services to same-sex couples because of religious convictions.

If you take this whole record, you have a [get out the vote] plan for the Democrats, said Lake, who argued the courts recent decision in Glacier Northwest v. International Brotherhood of Teamsters, which ruled a company could sue a union for striking if it hurts their business, would also mobilize union-affiliated voters.

The labor case was decided 8-1 in favor of a concrete company with liberal justice Ketanji Brown Jackson offering the only dissenting vote.

Steve Jarding, a Democratic strategist who previously served as an advisor to the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee, said the courts recent decisions are changing decades of precedent impacting millions of Americans.

He said if the Democrats use it right as an issue they can move voters to support Senate Democrats in key races.

This is the court that Republicans wanted, that Republicans gave America and now theyre dismantling the social fabric of the country, he said. The public doesnt normally pay attention to the court but with these rulings this goes beyond the court. This is a court the Republicans packed.

He noted the courts decisions are not only dramatic but in some cases they reversed decades of established precedent, altering a national landscape that voters had become accustomed to over a half-century.

The courts decision on affirmative action overturned a precedent set in 1978 in Regents of University of California v. Bakke. Last years Dobbs decision overturned the precedent Roe v. Wade established in 1973.

Jarding said voters who dont like the court fundamentally changing the fabric of America can express outrage about it at the ballot box.

Ive never in my lifetime seen so many dramatic decisions come down in such a short period of time and that makes this a legitimate political concern, he added.

Senate Republicans, however, are not shying away from the courts decisions on affirmative action and student debt.

McConnell hailed both rulings as big wins. He praised the court for making clear that colleges may not continue discriminating against bright and ambitious students based on the color of their skin and derided Bidens student debt forgiveness plan as socialism.

The president of the United States cannot hijack twenty-year-old emergency powers to pad the pockets of his high-earning base and make suckers out of working families who choose not to take on student debt, he said.

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) attacked the decisions, calling the ruling on affirmative action a giant roadblock on the march toward racial justice and the opinion on student debt relief disappointing and cruel.

Philip Letsou, a spokesman for the National Republican Senatorial Committee, said Democratic incumbents running in states that voted for former President Trump in 2016 and 2020 will have a tough time running against the court.

If Joe Manchin, Jon Tester, and Sherrod Brown want to run on supporting Joe Bidens illegal student loan bailout, racial discrimination in college admissions, and painful abortions up to the ninth month of pregnancy, we welcome their decision, he said.

Attacking Brett Kavanaugh backfired on Senate Democrats spectacularly in 2018, and it will backfire again if Democrats make attacking the Supreme Court their campaign pitch for 2024, Letsou added, noting that incumbent Democratic Sens. Claire McCaskill (R-Mo.), Joe Donnelly (D-Ind.) and Bill Nelson (D-Fla.) lost their re-election bids after Senate Democrats went to war against Trumps second nominee to the Supreme Court.

Whit Ayres, a prominent Republican pollster, said the courts decision to overturn the right to an abortion will have the most impact on the 2024 election and questioned whether decisions on student debt relief and affirmative action will move the needle much in Senate battlegrounds.

The way it would have an effect is through the abortion ruling, he said of the courts salience as a political issue next year. This affirmative action ruling is fully consistent with majority public opinion and thats not going to be an issue.

Its hard to make the Supreme Court itself an issue unless youre talking about a presidential campaign with a new president whos going to nominate justices. The way it becomes an issue is through the abortion ruling, he said.

In 2022, that really stimulated Democratic turnout down the ballot, he said.

Ayres said the decision on student loan forgiveness could sway voters in certain places but asserted there are as many arguments against providing that relief as there are for it, especially among people who had student loans and paid them off and are wondering where the fairness is.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
This article was originally published in The 19th.

Much of what the world knows about the Tulsa massacre, one of the most consequential events of state-sanctioned racial violence and displacement in Americas history, started with the work of one woman. Although Mary E. Jones Parrishs name has made a resurgence in recent history, the impact of her book about the disaster still isnt fully recognized  a situation one of her descendants is looking to change.

From May 31 to June 1, 1921, Tulsas thriving Greenwood district  dubbed Black Wall Street by Booker T. Washington  was decimated. One of the most affluent all-Black communities in the country at the time, Greenwood had an estimated 10,000 residents, many seeking refuge from the racial violence in other parts of the United States. Its 35 blocks boasted 121 Black-owned businesses and the nations largest Black-owned hotel.

Over less than 24 hours, hundreds of people were killed, more than 800 were injured, and over 1,200 homes and Black-owned businesses were burned and bombed to their foundations, leaving the community with damage amounting to over $27 million in 2021 dollars.

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The events leading to the massacre began on May 30, 1921, when unfounded allegations that a 19-year-old Black boy, Dick Rowland, had assaulted a 17-year-old White girl, Sarah Page. The allegations energized White residents of Tulsa as rumors of and plans for his execution spread.

Many argue that the impetus of the massacre was not the allegations, but the way the Tulsa Tribune, a White newspaper, sensationalized the events, weaponizing the afternoons headline as more a call to action: Nab Negro for Attacking Girl in Elevator.

Related

Teaching Tulsas Hard History After State Restricts Antiracist Instruction

A mob of White Tulsans, estimated to be in the thousands  at least 500 of whom were deputized by the police chief and given weapons  took to the streets of Greenwood.

In the days after the massacre, White media remained complicit in hiding its true nature, naming it a riot and obscuring details. The full number of people killed and true nature of the economic impact remain unknown, but what historians have been able to uncover is due to the work of Parrish, a journalist and typewriting instructor whose 1923 book, Events of the Tulsa Disaster, was the first book to be published accounting the massacre.

A black man with a camera looks at the skeletons of iron beds which rise above the ashes of a burned-out block after the Tulsa Massacre in Tulsa, Oklahoma, in June 1921. (Oklahoma Historical Society/Getty Images)

Parrishs work became a vital primary source for other peoples writings, journalist Victor Luckerson wrote in his recently released book, Built From the Fire. Yet her life remained unknown, even as the facts that she had gathered  such as several firsthand accounts of airplanes being used to surveil or attack Greenwood  became foundational to the nations understanding of the massacre. She was, quite literally, relegated to the footnotes of history.

Parrishs great-granddaughter Anneliese Bruner is following in her footsteps as a writer and editor but didnt learn of her connection to Parrish  or the events of Tulsa  until she was in her 30s.

A routine visit to her father, William Bruner Jr., for the holidays was all Bruner had set out for. She arrived at her dads expecting the usually jovial and lighthearted man shed grown up with but found him uncharacteristically serious as he waved her into his room and closed the door behind them.

He produced an envelope and out of it pulled a small, red, cloth-wrapped rectangular book that wore its age well and had the words, Events of the Tulsa Disaster by Mrs. Mary E. Jones Parrish embossed on the front in gold lettering.

This is a book your (great) grandmother wrote, Bruners father said, revealing to her for the first time the depth of her ancestry, who her grandmother, Florence Mary was, and why the events of the Tulsa massacre were such an integral piece to her bloodlines story. Im giving this to you. I want you to see what you can do with it.

When Events of the Tulsa Disaster was first published in 1923, it was done so privately by Parrish out of an abundance of caution. Today, few copies of the original work exist.

In 2021, Bruner answered her fathers call, promising to spread Parrishs work, and worked with the Trinity University Press to secure wide release of the book, titling the new edition, The Nation Must Awake: My Witness to the Tulsa Race Massacre of 1921.

I want people to know this work, Bruner told The 19th. As well as the person who did this work. I want people to see her courage. Her motherliness. Her agency and certainty in herself. Her spirit.  I want them to see her humanity.

Mary E. Parrishs great-granddaughter, Anneliese Bruner (Courtesy of Anneliese Bruner)

Just two paragraphs into the book, Parrish writes, How recent seems the beginnings of this little book! For Bruner, aside from its stature, there was nothing small about the book. She pored through it in one sitting with what felt like a sense of urgency, learning of the horrors of those two days and those that followed, uniting with her great-grandmother all the while.

After the massacre, against the wishes and caution of her friends and loved ones, Parrish stayed in Tulsa to accept a job from the Inter-Racial Commission to report on the events. The commission, created not even a month after the massacre, was an amalgam of what Parrish describes as fair-minded white and no less representative Black people with the common goal of creating a greater and better Tulsa.

Parrish used this opportunity to take a microscope to the events, contextualizing race relations in Tulsa as she interviewed scores of eyewitnesses, cementing the accounts of survivors, salvaging photographs of the ruins and lives lost and even creating a list that would become the foundation of what is known of the economic loss.

Parrish begins her book with her own account. Her knowledge of the massacre began when her 9-year-old daughter, Florence, said, Mother, I see men with guns. After waiting for the sounds of the violence to diminish, Parrish wrote that she breathed a prayer to heavenly father for strength and escaped with Florence.

The book then details survivors accounts, including James T.A. West, a local high school teacher, who recalls being rounded up with other men.

They (the Home Guard) told me to line up in the street.  They refused to let one of the men put on any kind of shoes. After lining up some 30 or 40 of us men, they ran us through the streets to Convention Hall forcing us to keep our hands in the air all the while. While we were running some of the ruffians would shoot at our heels. They actually drove a car into the bunch and knocked down two or three men.

When we reached Convention Hall we were searched again. There people were herded in like cattle. The sick and wounded were dumped out in front of the building and remained without attention for hours, West said.

Parrish intersperses her own recollections as well. I can never erase the sights of my first visit to the hospital, Parrish wrote. There were men wounded in every conceivable way, like soldiers after a battle. Some with amputated limbs, burned faces, or bandaged heads. There were women who were nervous wrecks, and some confinement cases. Was I in a hospital in France? No, in Tulsa. One mother was so thoughtless as to burden her infant for life with the name of June Riot.

Excerpts of Mary E. Parrishs book, Events of The Tulsa Disaster

There were to be seen people who formerly had owned beautiful homes and buildings and people who had always worked and made a comfortable honest living all standing in a row and waiting to be handed a change of clothing and feeling grateful to be able to get a sandwich and glass of water, Parrish wrote.

Dreamland, as Greenwood was called for the exceptional economic and social potential it held for Black Americans, was no more. Soon we reached the district which was so beautiful and prosperous looking when we left. This we found to be piled of bricks, ashes and twisted iron, representing years of toil and savings.

We were horror-stricken but strangely we could not shed a tear. Parrish writes, We did not enter there through the section of town, but they brought us through the White section, all sitting flat down on the truck looking like immigrants, only that we had no bundles. Dear reader, can you imagine the humiliation of coming in like that, with many doors thrown open watching you pass, some with pity and others with a smile?

It is my sincere hope and desire that this book will open the eyes of the thinking people of America.

This story was originally published by The 19th.

Related

How Students in Oklahoma Are Digitally Rebuilding Tulsas Black Wall Street
Tesla acted like a normal car company  and it worked out

Tesla reported another record quarter for deliveries. Justin Sullivan/Getty Images

Tesla reported record production and delivery numbers for the second quarter of 2023.

Elon Musk's car company produced almost 480,000 vehicles and delivered more than 466,000.

But with production outpacing deliveries, there are still challenges on the horizon for Tesla.

It seems like acting like a traditional car company is working out for Elon Musk's Tesla.

The electric vehicle market leader reported another record period for deliveries, getting just over 466,000 EVs in the hands of customers in the second quarter.

However, the company produced almost 480,000 vehicles in the three months ending June 30  yet again notably higher than what it delivered.

That shows an upward trajectory from a well-received first quarter, when Tesla reported production of 440,000 vehicles and just under 423,000 deliveries.

Having yet another record quarter shows that the legacy auto strategy, alongside price cuts, keeps working.

Recently, Tesla has been increasingly acting like the legacy carmakers it long fought hard not to be.

In a shift from the days when it struggled to meet demand, Tesla is now navigating having a supply of inventory that's through the roof compared with demand  something traditional auto companies are quite familiar with.

But it's almost as if Tesla swapped strategies with its incumbent competitors, many of which are sitting on relatively low vehicle inventory right now (and basking in it).

Though auto production is ramping back up post-pandemic, some dealers still have historically low new vehicle supply on their lots. Interestingly, however, there's starting to be a backlog on new EV inventory overall  not just for Tesla.

Still, some say there is cause for continued worry for Musk's firm.

Tesla has offered a slew of price cuts in recent months to boost sales amid its bloated inventory and softening demand, and its vehicles are cheaper than ever  especially with the EV tax credits Teslas qualify for. Prices of Tesla's various models have fallen anywhere from 14% to 28%, per Bloomberg.

In doing so, Musk has sacrificed margins for volume  perhaps a key play in the company asserting its global dominance. While Tesla has a handle on the US EV market by a long shot, it's facing rising competition in China.

Tesla is expected to produce about 1.8 million cars this year, up from 1.3 million in 2022. But if that continues to outpace deliveries, it'll have to take further action, especially as inventory has grown each quarter over the past year.

"We still see risk of additional price cuts over the rest of the year and into 2024," Deutsche Bank analyst Emmanuel Rosner wrote in a research note on June 26 previewing deliveries.

But, "Beyond, Tesla's longer-term story remains very much intact and best-in-class, in our view," Rosner said.

Production Deliveries Q1 2022 305,407 310,048 Q2 2022 258,580 254,695 Q3 2022 365,923 343,830 Q4 2022 439,701 405,278 Q1 2023 440,808 422,875 Q2 2023 479,700 466,140

Source: Tesla

Read the original article on Business Insider
Tesla delivered 466,000 cars in another record quarter. Analysts called it a 'massive step in the right direction.'

Tesla posted another record quarter. Celal Gunes/Getty Images

Tesla posted another record quarter for the three months to June 30, it said on Sunday.

The EV leader produced nearly 480,000 vehicles and delivered about 466,000, Tesla said.

It's another indication Tesla's strategy of starting to operate like other auto makers is working.

Tesla posted another record quarter for both production and deliveries in the three months to June 30.

The EV market leader said Sunday that it produced 479,700 cars, and delivered 466,140  both exceeding the totals for the first quarter of this year.

The second quarter figures are not far off double the tallies for the same period last year.

While production still outpaced sales, Tesla beat analyst expectations for the second quarter of about 445,000 deliveries, according to FactSet data reported by the The Wall Street Journal. "Deliveries" are the closest figure to sales that Tesla reports.

Analysts at Wedbush Securities said the delivery figure was a "massive step in the right direction" for Tesla. They maintained a $300 price target on the stock and said the numbers would "put the bears back into hibernation mode."

Tesla shares closed Friday at $261 and have soared 142% this year, valuing the company at $820 billion.

"We believe the sum-of-the-parts story for Tesla is another step towards coming into play with its newly released supercharger network OEM deals, energy business, AI-driven autonomous path, unmatched battery ecosystem, and increased production scale/scope globally adding to the Tesla golden EV success story," Wedbush analysts including Dan Ives wrote.

Tesla reports its second quarter results and will hold an investor call on July 19.

According to Insider's Alexa St. John, the second quarter figures seem to show that Tesla's succeeding in its shift towards acting like a conventional car company. It's started advertising, selling to rental companies, and discounting vehicles due to production outstripping demand.

The quarter also brought about another win for Tesla, as other EV makers like Ford, Rivian, and General Motors all announced deals to use Tesla's charging technology.

Tesla's repeatedly changed prices of its vehicles this year, starting 2023 off by cutting prices, which some analysts said appeared to be the start of an EV price war between Tesla and other automakers that have jumped on the EV bandwagon.

Some experts told Insider's George Glover and Beatrice Nolan earlier this year that the price cuts appeared to be working, as demand was increasing for Tesla's now-cheaper models.

Read the original article on Business Insider
A Tesla owner says he was locked out of his EV after its 12-volt battery died amid the Texas heat

A Tesla owner says he was locked out of his EV after it died in the Texas heat. Courtesy of Dennis Hegstad

Dennis Hegstad said his Model 3 was stuck in his driveway after its 12-volt battery died.

The Tesla owner attributes the issue to the impact of the Texas summer heat on the battery.

He had to get his EV towed and called the issue "annoying as hell."

A Tesla owner said he was locked out of his Model 3 in his driveway after the 12-volt battery, which powers the car's smaller functions including windows and doors, died last week amid the Texas summer heat.

The low-voltage battery is not only crucial for powering smaller electronics in the car, but also for charging the EVs main battery pack  and the Tesla can't charge without it, requiring a jump much like a traditional gas-powered car.

"What do you do when it's so hot your @tesla won't respond to the mobile app or physical key?" Dennis Hegstad, the founder of a startup, wrote on Twitter. "I can't open the car or move the car to reach a charging point."

In a video that showed him unsuccessfully trying to get into the EV with his Tesla key card, Hegstad said his 2018 Model 3 had about 130 miles of range left when he woke up that morning. He also posted a photo from the Tesla app showing that it "could not find vehicle" to unlock it.

"Confusing situation when you need to leave to be somewhere @elonmusk," Hegstad tweeted.

Tesla's don't have traditional keys so the key card uses short range radio signals to communicate with the car and unlock the door.

Hegstad told Insider he later found out that the Tesla's 12-volt battery had died. It works alongside the much larger lithium-ion battery pack and powers smaller functions inside the vehicle, including the interior lights, door locks, and windshield wipers. As of last year, Tesla has begun sending push notifications to owners when it's time for the battery to be replaced  Hegstad said he doesn't remember receiving the notification. Newer Model 3 cars also have a 16-volt lithium-ion battery instead of a 12-volt.

While Hegstad said Tesla didn't confirm how the battery died, Hegstad thinks it could be due to the high Texas heat, which ranged from 80 to 96 degrees Fahrenheit in Austin on June 21. Hot weather conditions are known to decrease a batteries life span, reduce the range of an EV, and increase the amount of time it takes the vehicle to recharge.

Ultimately, Hegstad said on Twitter that the issue was "annoying as hell" and added that he felt he'd overpaid for the car by about $15,000 amid recent Tesla price cuts.

"Some buyer remorse," he said on Twitter.

The Tesla owner said he had to spend about $200 to have the electric car towed to Tesla and was essentially stuck until the tow truck arrive because the dead Model 3 was blocking in his gas-powered car. But, before he called a tow truck, Hegstad said on Twitter that he tried all manner of things to get the car back up and running  from hosing it down to cool it off to attempting to jump the 12-volt battery and wasn't even able to get the access point to the charging port open. He also noted that he had kept the vehicle in the shade and had used Tesla's cabin overheat protection system, a function that prevents a Tesla's interior temperature from exceeding 105 degrees.

Hegstad told Insider he got his Model 3 back under 24 hours after reporting the issue and spent about $117 to replace the 12-volt battery. Luckily, the Tesla's much more expensive main battery pack was still intact. Insider viewed Hegstad's invoice from Tesla, confirming the battery issue and its resolution.

A spokesperson for Tesla did not respond to a request for comment from Insider ahead of publication.

Hegstad is not the first Tesla owner to report issues with getting into his EV. Last year, a Tesla owner went viral on TikTok after he said he was locked out of his Model S after the lithium-ion battery died. "BlackBerry" and "It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia" actor Glenn Howerton was also locked out of his Tesla last year after his key fob was unable to connect to WiFi on the lowest level of a Los Angeles parking garage.

Read the original article on Business Insider
Thailand demanded a gift elephant back from Sri Lanka after the elephant ended up enslaved in a logging camp

The Thai government accused a temple in southern Sri Lanka of abusing the gift elephant. Pradeep Dambarage / Nurphoto

Thailand demanded a gift elephant back from Sri Lanka because it had been enslaved and tortured.

The elephant, Mutha Raja, was forced to work with a temple logging crew, according to France 24.

Mutha Raja would've died had the Thai government not intervened, an activist told AFP News.

An elephant gifted from Thailand to Sri Lanka has been returned after allegations the animal was tortured and abused in a temple logging camp.

The 29-year-old elephant  known as Mutha Raja in Sri Lanka and Sak Surin in Thailand  was originally gifted in 2001 as part of the country's diplomatic missions, according to AFP News.

But on Friday, the elephant returned home after Thai authorities accused a Sri Lanka temple of mistreating and neglecting him. He had been forced to work in a logging crew and tortured, animal rights activists said, France 24 reported.

According to Agence France-Presse, the elephant was in pain and covered in marks and abscesses when Thai authorities discovered it and Sri Lanka's government intervened.

The elephant recovered at a Colombo zoo before Thailand arranged for him to return home, although an injury on his front leg will require future therapy, AFP said.

The Rally for Animal Rights and Environment animal activism group was thankful Thailand stepped in, with RARE's director telling AFP: "He would be dead by now if the Thai government did not intervene."

Read the original article on Insider
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Minister for Indigenous Australians Linda Burney at Parliament House in Canberra

SYDNEY (Reuters) -Thousands rallied in Australia on Sunday to back a campaign to recognise the country's Indigenous people in the constitution ahead of a referendum later this year, after a recent dip in support for the change.

The referendum, likely to be held between October and December, seeks to amend the constitution and establish an advisory body, called the Indigenous Voice to Parliament, to give Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people a direct say in policies that impact them.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese's centre-left Labor government backs the change, while the opposition Liberal-National conservatives urge a "No" vote.

On Sunday, an Australian Council of Social Service tweet showed Sydney rally attendees in T-shirts with the words "Vote Yes" and caps with the words "The Uluru Statement", referring to a key document that calls for an Indigenous Voice.

One rallygoer, Jason Howard, said the event was "a great opportunity for all Australians to get behind something thats going to make this country better".

Another attendee, Isabelle Smith, said in her opinion the referendum was the most important issue in Australia.

"Itll bring Australians together and I think voting 'Yes' is the most important thing that people can do," she said.

Yes23, the group behind more than 25 rallies nationwide, said the crowd in Sydney was around 3,000 and that it expected up to 25,000 people to participate in total.

The day of action comes after support for the referendum appeared to be ebbing, according to a poll last month, which showed "No" ahead for the first time, 51% to 49%.

Opponents, including some Indigenous people, have said the proposal lacks detail and will divide Australians.

"We do not really focus on the polls. What we focus on is the work that is involved in getting out and talking to people, Yes23 director Rachel Perkins told ABC television on Sunday.

Indigenous Australians, who account for 3.8% of the population, face disadvantages including discrimination, poor health and education outcomes and high incarceration rates.

(Reporting by Sam McKeith, James Redmayne and Jill Gralow; Editing by Simon Cameron-Moore and William Mallard)
Three children injured in Kherson Oblast in Russian attacks over past 24 hours

The authorities in Kherson Oblast have reported that three children were injured in Russian attacks on 1 July.

Source: Oleksandr Prokudin, Head of the Kherson Oblast Military Administration, on Telegram

Details: Two more adults were injured as well.

The Russian forces attacked Kherson Oblast 86 times over the past 24 hours, firing 475 projectiles from mortars, artillery, tanks, Grad multiple-launch rocket systems and UAVs.

The Russian army fired 27 projectiles on the city of Kherson.

Journalists fight on their own frontline. Support Ukrainska Pravda or become our patron!
Town Topic carries on a long legacy of burger stands in Kansas City, but it wasnt the first

While the hot dog is considered quintessential cuisine for the Fourth of July holiday, the hamburger is undeniably king among American eats. It is a menu staple at restaurants throughout the U.S., not to mention the backyards and ballparks in which countless grilled patties are served up.

Kansas City has its own juicy burger history  the focus of this installment of Whats Your KCQ?, an ongoing series produced by the Kansas City Public Library and The Kansas City Star.

A reader recently perused the Librarys 1940 Tax Assessment Photograph Collection, a photographic survey of Kansas City buildings and residences, and noticed numerous hamburger stands around the downtown area. Town Topic and White Castle were two familiar names, but Bungalow, Eat-Moore, Happy Hollow and many others were not.

Clockwise from top left: Eat-Moore (2021 Broadway), Happy Hollow (2410 Independence Blvd.), White Castle (6423 Troost), and The Dugout (810 E. 31 St.) in 1940.

The reader reached out to KCQ wondering why the businesses looked so similar  all housed in tiny, white buildings and selling 5-cent hamburgers. Was there a connection?

Busy Bee Lunch at 3041 Prospect, 1940.

The Hamburgers Humble Origins

The modern hamburgera fried or grilled beef patty, served on a bun and garnished with any number of condiments  has evolved since 19th century German immigrants introduced the U.S. to frikadellen, commonly known as Hamburg steak. It was a simple and inexpensive dish of seasoned meat patties, pan-fried and often served with potatoes.

Directions for frying Hamburg Steak

The originator of the burger-on-a-bun concept is uncertain, with food purveyors in several states staking claim to the honor. Some sources point to the hamburger sandwich debuting at the 1904 St. Louis Worlds Fair.

Regardless of who first served the hamburger, it didnt immediately take off with the eating public. A novel published in 1906 was largely to blame.

Upton Sinclairs The Jungle shined a light on the dangerous working conditions endured by American meatpackers. The accompanying descriptions of unsanitary practices and contaminated meat turned stomachs and turned off the appetite for ground beef.

As a result, the hamburger was looked down upon as low-class street food.

The Jungle, 1906

But in 1921, a short-order cook and real estate agent in Wichita, Kansas, would reinvent the traditional hamburger stand and start a fast-food craze that would spread rapidly to other Midwestern cities  including Kansas City.

White Castle System

Kansas-born Walt Anderson worked a string of low-paying jobs throughout the Midwest in the early 1900s. While a fry cook in Wichita, he began experimenting with different cuts of meat and bun types. His version of a flattened meatball  a thin beef patty, seared on both sides with onions and served on a small bun  became a customer favorite.

In 1916, Anderson borrowed $60 and converted a shoe repair shop into a three-stool lunch counter. His signature menu item was advertised on a sign out front: Hamburgers 5.

The Wichita Hamburger King, Walter Anderson

To ease public concern about meat safety, Anderson ground his own beef behind the counter and cooked the patties in view of his customers. By 1920, he operated four hamburger stands in Wichita and urged his customers to Buy em by the Sack  a half-dozen burgers per bag.

The following year, Anderson partnered with entrepreneur Billy Ingram to open the first White Castle restaurant in Wichita. The name was chosen to convey cleanliness and quality, with white signifying purity and castle denoting stability and permanence.

The buildings white-washed exterior and whimsical castle motif set it apart from competing hamburger stands, which were often little more than shacks. Gleaming countertops and food preparation areas further reinforced the commitment to cleanliness.

First White Castle restaurant, Wichita, Kansas, ca. 1921.

The strategy succeeded in changing public perception of the hamburger as questionable fair food and in attracting more middle-class consumers. The White Castle System of Eating Houses, the incorporated name of the company, spread to other Midwestern cities, and the modern fast-food hamburger franchise was born.

White Castles popularity and brand recognition spawned many copycats. Operating under such names as White Crown, White Tower and Little Kastle, these eateries often adopted White Castles trademark white building and architecture, and of course its 5-cent burgers. Some competitors went a step further by appropriating the Buy em by the Sack slogan.

Jacks Hamburgers at 1921 E. 12th Street, 1940

After expanding into Omaha, Nebraska, White Castle turned its sights on the burgeoning Kansas City market. The first restaurant opened in 1924 at 13 W. 19th St. By the end of the year, there were three additional locations. The franchise continued to grow over the next decade, with the 11th Kansas City White Castle opening at 38th and Main streets in 1937.

First Kansas City White Castle at 19th and Main, ca.1924.

First Kansas City White Castle at 19th and Main, ca. 1924.

But White Castle wasnt the only burger franchise in town.

Bungalow System

The Bungalow Lunch Company, with its self-proclaimed Famous Bungalow System, had 12 locations in and around downtown Kansas City. It, too, specialized in 5-cent hamburgers served around the clock, catering to carry-out customers. Signage encouraged passersby to Buy em at a Bungalow.

The company was established in 1924 by Andrew Bixby, who according to earlier census records worked in sales. City directory listings from 1919-23 show him employed by an adding machine company in Wichita. Although, no connection between Bixby and Wichita-based White Castle was found, its likely he would have been familiar with the upstart hamburger chain, if not inspired by the concept.

Bungalow eatery at 4112 Mill Creek Parkway, 1940

Like White Castle, Bungalow restaurants were housed in small buildings just large enough for a grill, lunch counter and a few stools, and were located in high foot-traffic areas. Both franchises weathered the Great Depression by serving affordable fare to working-class clientele.

But there were obstacles along the way.

Running a 24-hour operation with minimal staff made Bixbys restaurants a target for robbers during hard times. Newspaper reports from the 1930s and 40s frequently mention robberies at various Bungalow locations. The Kansas City Times reported in 1946 that a location on East 15th Street had been held up three times in eight days and an astonishing 100 times in the past decade.

Bungalow advertisement

In 1935, Bixby and other local business owners made news by speaking out against a city ordinance requiring a liquor license for sales of 3.2% beer, which Bixby maintained was 15% of his business. Two years later, he was forced to temporarily shut down all operations due to a restaurant workers strike.

Bixby persevered, however, and reopened his restaurants. He would later serve two terms as president of the Kansas City Restaurant Association before retiring from the burger business in 1946.

Employee outside a Bungalow location at 1432 Main, 1940

White Castle had shuttered its Kansas City operations three years earlier due to labor and supply shortages following the outbreak of World War II. The franchise wouldnt return to Kansas City until the 1980s.

Town Topic Hamburgers

One of Kansas Citys most iconic  and long-lasting  burger joints opened during the Depression era and survived the lean war years of the 1940s: Town Topic.

Two former White Castle employees, Claude Sparks and Heywood Billings, opened the first Town Topic Sandwich Shop at 2442 Broadway in 1937. The entrepreneurs were forthcoming about modeling their burger venture after their former employer. We tried to pattern it exactly after White Castle, Sparks told The Kansas City Star in 1984.

Original Town Topic at 24th and Broadway, 1940

This included selling hamburgers for a nickel apiece, 24 hours a day, and offering coupons to entice new customers.

At a time when other hamburger operations were closing, Town Topic added a second location at 11 E. Linwood Blvd. in 1939 and a third at 2021 Broadway in 1944.

Town Topic coupon

While the Sparkss and Billingss partnership dissolved soon after, Sparks continued to grow the franchise, opening three new locations by 1955. The last shop opened in 1987 on Johnson Drive in Mission, Kansas.

Claude Sparks, ca. 1930s or 40s

Town Topic continues to sell burgers by the bagful at its historic Baltimore and Broadway locations, a vestige of the simple hamburger stands of the 1930s and 40s.

White Castle returned to Kansas City in 1985 but pulled out of the market in 2001. Loyal fans of the franchise continue to lobby for its return and crave its signature sliders by the sack.

Editors note: The WHITE CASTLE image and trademark are the exclusive property of White Castle Management Co. and are used under license. No use, reproduction or distribution is allowed.
Longtime conservative check-writers the Koch family are reportedly working to make sure Donald Trump doesnt win the 2024 Republican primary, according to a new report.

Americans for Prosperity Action, a network of political organisations created by Charles and David Koch, will spend money for the first time in its existence on the Republican presidential primary. It has already raised more than $70m to fund races that officials hope will help the Republican party move past Mr Trump, according to the New York Times.

The groups intent is reportedly aimed at stopping Mr Trump  the clear Republican front-runner  from winning the 2024 primary. The Times reports that a top official in the network, Emily Seidel, wrote to the groups donors in a memo that it was time to have a president in 2025 who represents a new chapter.

In the 2020 election cycle the group spent nearly $500m backing Republican candidates and causes.

Though Florida Governor Ron DeSantis is the only Republican with competitive numbers when compared to Mr Trump, the organisation reportedly has not decided who it will field in its mission to stop Mr Trump from taking on Joe Biden in 20224.

Key Points

Koch to fund Trumps primary opponents

15:55 , Graig Graziosi

The network of political organisations established by brothers Charles and David Koch will continue to fund conservative causes  so long as they arent backing Donald Trump.

The Kochs network, Americans for Prosperity Action, is reportedly funding candidates that will help the Republican party move away from Trump, a spokesperson told The New York Times.

The network has already raised more than $70m.

This will be the first year the network will take on a primary race, with the groups intent reportedly aimed at stopping Mr Trump  the clear Republican front-runner  from winning the primary. The Times reports that a top official in the network, Emily Seidel, wrote to the groups donors that it was time to have a president in 2025 who represents a new chapter.

Despite recent rulings, Biden says it would be a mistake to expand Supreme Court

15:45 , Oliver O'Connell

President Joe Biden has said it would be a mistake to expand the Supreme Court, despite its recent rulings against affirmative action in higher education, LGBT+ rights, and student loan debt forgiveness.

The high court overturned decades of policies when it ruled this week that race-based admissions were not constitutional, preventing universities from considering race as a factor in student applications.

Read more...

Biden says expanding Supreme Court would be mistake, despite recent rulings

RFK Jr says he is proud to have Trumps praise

13:45 , Oliver O'Connell

Yes, hes running as a Democrat...

Robert F Kennedy Jr says he is proud to have Trumps praise

SCOTUS allows Colorado designer to deny LGBT+ customers

11:15 , Oliver O'Connell

A wedding website designer may refuse to create work for people in the LGBT+ community if it conflicts with their religious beliefs, the Supreme Court ruled on Friday.

In a 6-3 decision, the conservative majority of the court ruled in favour of Lorie Smith, a Colorado-based website creator, who wanted to refuse service to same-sex couples but couldnt as it was a violation of a public accommodation law.

Read more...

Supreme Court allows Colorado designer to deny LGBT+ customers in ruling

Even as indictment loomed, Trump demanded to get my boxes back from feds

08:15 , Oliver O'Connell

As Donald Trumps lawyers began preparing for a federal indictment, the ex-president was allegedly still hoping to get the documents and boxes seized from Mar-a-Lago back, according to a report.

Mr Trump referred to the classified material as my boxes and my documents and asked his lawyers to retrieve the material, sources with direct knowledge of the matter told Rolling Stone.

Read more...

Trump demanded to get my boxes back from feds as indictment loomed

'Oh God, I try not to think about that

05:15 , Oliver O'Connell

President Joe Biden summed up perhaps most foreign policy experts thoughts when asked if he thought Mr Trump would have tipped off Russian President Vladimir Putin to the abortive coup attempt waged by Wagner Group leader Yevgeny Prigozhin over last weekend.

Oh God, I try not to think about that, Mr Biden said.

Biden groans when asked if Trump would have tipped Putin off to coup attempt

Did DeSantis break the law with Texas border trip?

02:15 , Oliver O'Connell

The presidential campaign of Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has been accused of breaking the law after the team shared an image on Twitter of the candidate exiting a helicopter that records show is owned by the Texas Department of Public Safety.

Gustaf Kilander explains why that might be an issue.

DeSantis accused of breaking the law with Texas border trip

Pence meets with Zelensky in Ukraine

Saturday 1 July 2023 23:15 , Oliver O'Connell

Former vice president Mike Pence visited with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in a sign of solidarity with Ukraine even as many Republicans sour on support for Ukraine, CNN first reported.

Read more...

Mike Pence meets with Zelensky in Ukraine

Trump celebrates Supreme Court decision on affirmative action

Saturday 1 July 2023 21:15 , Oliver O'Connell

Former President Donald Trump celebrated the Supreme Courts decision to reject affirmative action programmes at US colleges and universities on Wednesday morning, calling it a a great day for America.

In a post on Truth Social, Mr Trump said that the ruling was amazing.

Trump celebrates Supreme Court ruling on affirmative action: The way it should be!

DeSantis earnings jump due to book advance

Saturday 1 July 2023 15:41

Republican presidential hopeful and Florida Governor Ron DeSantis saw his earnings spike this year from a book deal.

He earned $1.25million as an advance for the memoir he released earlier this year, according to an annual financial disclosure form, significantly boosting his net worth.

The book titled The Courage to be Free was published by HarperCollins in February and made the New York Times bestsellers list the following month.

House GOP expand their Hunter Biden investigation

Saturday 1 July 2023 15:15 , Oliver O'Connell

House Republicans on Thursday requested voluntary testimony from nearly a dozen Justice Department officials involved in the investigation of President Joe Bidens son Hunter as GOP lawmakers widen their scrutiny into what they claim is improper interference by the agency.

Read more...

Republicans expand their Hunter Biden investigation by seeking an interview with the lead prosecutor

Three investors charged in $22m Trump Media insider trading case

Saturday 1 July 2023 13:15 , Oliver O'Connell

Three investors in the special purpose acquisition company (SPAC) that took Trump Media public have been indicted for insider trading concerning the deal, making $22m in alleged illegal trades.

Read more...

Trump Media investors charged in $22m insider trading case

Christie says McCarthy spoke correctly about Trump the first time

Saturday 1 July 2023 10:15 , Oliver O'Connell

Former New Jersey governor and presidential Republican presidential candidate Chris Christie told CNN that House Speaker Kevin McCarthy was right in his initial assessment about whether former president Donald Trump was the strongest candidate to beat Joe Biden in a general election contest.

Earlier this week, Mr McCarthy said he was not sure that Mr Trump was the strongest candidate to beat Mr Biden.

Eric Garcia reports.

Chris Christie says McCarthy spoke correctly about Trump the first time

DeSantis says if elected he would abolish education, energy and IRS agencies

Saturday 1 July 2023 08:45 , Oliver O'Connell

Gov Ron DeSantis of Florida said in an interview on Fox News on Wednesday morning that he supports eliminating multiple federal government agencies including the Internal Revenue Service (IRS).

To fight woke ideology...

DeSantis says he would abolish education and energy departments and IRS

Trumps GOP support dips slightly after second indictment

Saturday 1 July 2023 05:45 , Oliver O'Connell

Former President Donald Trumps criminal indictment on charges of mishandling government secrets appears to have dented his popularity among Republicans  but only slightly - according to a new poll from The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research.

Read more...

Trump's GOP support dips slightly after his indictment over classified documents, AP-NORC poll finds

Voices: Kevin McCarthy knows he crossed the line with Donald Trump

Saturday 1 July 2023 03:45 , Oliver O'Connell

Few people embody Republicans relationship and acquiescence to Donald Trump more than House Speaker Kevin McCarthy.

Eric Garcia charts the latest developments in their relationship.

Kevin McCarthy knows he crossed the line with Donald Trump

New DeSantis-backed laws in Florida address immigration, guns and more

Saturday 1 July 2023 01:45 , Oliver O'Connell

Employers who hire immigrants in the country illegally will face tough punishments and gun owners will have more freedoms when more than 200 new Florida laws take effect Saturday, many of which Gov. Ron DeSantis will highlight as he seeks the Republican presidential nomination.

Read more:

Florida's new DeSantis-backed laws address immigration, guns and more

Biden blames GOP for student loan ruling

Saturday 1 July 2023 00:45 , Oliver O'Connell

President Joe Biden insisted Friday that this fight is not over after the Supreme Court struck down his $400 billion student loan forgiveness plan. Biden blamed Republicans opposition, aiming to direct the ire of millions of borrowers toward them rather than his own party in next years elections.

The president planned an afternoon address to lay out a series of actions to provide continued relief to 43 million student loan borrowers, and in the meantime tried to stay on the political offensive against the GOP.

Biden blames GOP for student loan ruling as 2024 political consequences loom

Biden: It would be a mistake to expand Supreme Court

Friday 30 June 2023 23:45 , Oliver O'Connell

President Joe Biden has said it would be a mistake to expand the Supreme Court, despite its recent rulings against affirmative action in higher education, LGBT+ rights, and student loan debt forgiveness.

Read more...

Biden says expanding Supreme Court would be mistake, despite recent rulings

Voices: The Supreme Court just made me a second-class citizen

Friday 30 June 2023 22:45 , Oliver O'Connell

Skylar Baker-Jordan reacts to todays Supreme Court ruling.

The Supreme Court just made me a second-class citizen

Trump: They got me on nothing

Friday 30 June 2023 22:40 , Oliver O'Connell

Donald Trump: "It turns out with me I did nothing wrong...They got me on nothing. Got me on nothing and all of the things that they do have. It's like the pundits are saying, 'Wow, that's nothing.'" pic.twitter.com/3YIo38pJpz  Republican Accountability (@AccountableGOP) June 30, 2023

Watch: Trump receives a warm welcome in Philadelphia

Friday 30 June 2023 22:26 , Oliver O'Connell

"F**k you traitor!" - screams heard as Donald Trump arrived at #MomsForLiberty conference in Philadelphia



Video by Olga Fe Desk@freedomnews.tv to license pic.twitter.com/UZFi7WZfly  Oliya Scootercaster  (@ScooterCasterNY) June 30, 2023

Republicans are planning a national abortion ban, warns senator who once worked at a Planned Parenthood

Friday 30 June 2023 22:15 , Oliver O'Connell

When a draft of the Supreme Courts Dobbs v Jackson opinion that would overturn Roe v Wade leaked in May of last year, US Senator Tina Smith had only three words.

This is bulls***, the Minnesota Democrat tweeted. She had similar words when Walgreens announced in March of this year it would not dispense abortion pills in states where abortion remained legal.

Eric Garcia spoke with Ms Smith for The Independent.

Senator who worked at Planned Parenthood warns of an abortion ban if the GOP wins

Full story: Biden reveals new path to student debt relief

Friday 30 June 2023 21:55 , Oliver O'Connell

President Biden on Friday hit out at the Republican state officials and legislators who supported the lawsuit which enabled the Supreme Court to strike down his student debt forgiveness initiative, accusing many of them of hypocrisy for taking money from pandemic-era relief programmes while opposing relatively meager relief for student loan borrowers.

Some of the same elected Republicans, members of Congress who strongly opposed relief for students, got hundreds of thousands of dollars themselves ... several members of Congress got over a million dollars  all those loans are forgiven, he said.

The hypocrisy is stunning, he said.

Andrew Feinberg in Washington, DC, and Alex Woodward in New York filed this report.

Biden reveals new path to student debt relief

Trump makes Georgia probe prediction in latest grievance-laden rant

Friday 30 June 2023 21:35 , Oliver O'Connell

Heres what the twice-indicted, twice-impeached former president posted to Truth Social at lunchtime today:

I predict that the Racist District Attorney in Atlanta, with the per capita WORST crime record in the Country, Fani Willis, where murderers get away with murder, and are seldom charged and almost never prosecuted, will be dropping all charges against me for lack of a case. I made a PERFECTLY LEGAL PHONE CALL, AS PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES, ABOUT AN ELECTION THAT I STRONGLY FEEL WAS RIGGED AND STOLLEN. NONE of the MANY LAWYERS on the call minded my words, or even hinted at wrongdoing. SCAM!

Lawyer Ron Filipkowski noted the odd timing of the prediction:

This makes me think that he, or his lawyers, were told something. Maybe not, but this seems rather random for him to make this prediction today. pic.twitter.com/VakCVDFnVD  Ron Filipkowski (@RonFilipkowski) June 30, 2023

Friday 30 June 2023 21:30 , Oliver O'Connell

Watch live: Karine Jean-Pierre holds White House briefing

Watch: Biden announces new path for student debt relief

Friday 30 June 2023 21:14 , Oliver O'Connell

Biden: I'm announcing today a new path consistent with today's ruling to provide student debt relief to as many borrowers as possible as quickly as possible. We will ground this new approach in a different law than my original plan with the higher education act. pic.twitter.com/d70zEDIPf4  Acyn (@Acyn) June 30, 2023

Biden outlines new path to student loan forgiveness after SCOTUS decision

Friday 30 June 2023 21:10 , Oliver O'Connell

BREAKING: President Biden announces he will seek student loan forgiveness through an alterative legal authority -- the Higher Education Act of 1965 -- after the SCOTUS defeated his plan today.  Joey Garrison (@joeygarrison) June 30, 2023

Latest Trump campaign video mocked for weird apocalyptic tone

Friday 30 June 2023 20:45 , Oliver O'Connell

While the footage was posted on Mr Trumps own Truth Social site, it was later posted on Twitter where it was roundly ridiculed by social media users.

Rachel Sharp reports.

Trump mocked for weird apocalyptic campaign video

Three charged in $22m Trump Media insider trading case

Friday 30 June 2023 20:15 , Oliver O'Connell

Three investors in the special purpose acquisition company (SPAC) that took Trump Media public have been indicted for insider trading concerning the deal, making $22m in alleged lillegal trades.

Michael Shvartsman, Gerald Shvartsman and Bruce Garelick were named in a federal indictment unsealed on Thursday (29 June) in Manhattan federal court.

All three were charged with trading in securities of Digital World Acquisition Corporation (DWAC) based on non-public information about the companys planned business combination with Trump Media & Technology Group  founded by former President Donald Trump  the parent company of social media platform Truth Social.

They were arrested on Thursday morning in Florida.

Trump Media investors charged in $22m insider trading case

DeSantis hits back at Trump disloyalty claim

Friday 30 June 2023 20:00 , Oliver O'Connell

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis on Thursday hit back at former president Donald Trumps allegation that the Sunshine State executive is betraying him by mounting a presidential campaign of his own during an appearance on Fox News.

Mr DeSantis, who currently trails the twice-impeached, twice-indicted ex-president by a wide margin in most polls of likely GOP primary voters, told Fox host Jesse Watters that no politician  even a former president such as Mr Trump  is entitled to support from anyone after Watters raised Mr Trumps criticisms during a televised interview.

Andrew Feinberg reports on the rest of the Florida governors remarks.

DeSantis hits back at Trump disloyalty claim: Politicians have to earn support

Fox reaches $12m settlement with former producer Abby Grossberg

Friday 30 June 2023 19:53 , Oliver O'Connell

Fox Corporation has reached a $12m settlement in a lawsuit from a former Fox New producer who alleged a culture of misogyny at the network and accused Fox lawyers of pressuring her into making misleading statements in a blockbuster defamation case from a voting machines company.

Alex Woodward has the latest.

Fox reaches $12m settlement over toxic workplace lawsuit from former producer

DeSantis slammed for backing use of radioactive waste in road study

Friday 30 June 2023 19:45 , Oliver O'Connell

Republican presidential hopeful Ron DeSantis is under fire after giving the go-ahead to the study of radioactive mining waste in the use of road-building projects.

On Thursday, the Florida governor greenlit a bill adding phosphogypsum, which has been linked to cancer, to a list of materials that can be studied by the Florida Department of Transportation and used in road construction in the state.

Gustaf Kilander reports.

DeSantis slammed after backing use of radioactive waste in road study

Angry onlookers shout dog killer at George Santos

Friday 30 June 2023 19:35 , Oliver O'Connell

Angry protesters called congressman George Santos a dog killer on Friday as the Republican made an appearance at a Long Island federal court house, his first hearing since pleading not guilty last month to a13-count indictment related to fraud and money laundering charges.

Onlookers shout dog killer at George Santos as he arrives for fraud hearing

Trump makes Georgia probe prediction in latest grievance-laden rant

Friday 30 June 2023 19:30 , Oliver O'Connell

Heres what the twice-indicted, twice-impeached former president posted to Truth Social at lunchtime today:

I predict that the Racist District Attorney in Atlanta, with the per capita WORST crime record in the Country, Fani Willis, where murderers get away with murder, and are seldom charged and almost never prosecuted, will be dropping all charges against me for lack of a case. I made a PERFECTLY LEGAL PHONE CALL, AS PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES, ABOUT AN ELECTION THAT I STRONGLY FEEL WAS RIGGED AND STOLLEN. NONE of the MANY LAWYERS on the call minded my words, or even hinted at wrongdoing. SCAM!

Lawyer Ron Filipkowski noted the odd timing of the prediction:

This makes me think that he, or his lawyers, were told something. Maybe not, but this seems rather random for him to make this prediction today. pic.twitter.com/VakCVDFnVD  Ron Filipkowski (@RonFilipkowski) June 30, 2023

Watch: SCOTUS decisions activates young people to speak out and vote, says Psaki

Friday 30 June 2023 19:25 , Oliver O'Connell

"All of this is going to have a huge impact I suspect on the courts and popularity of the courts. These type of decisions are something that activates young people. Activates them to speak out, to vote, to have their voice heard."@jrpsaki on SCOTUS decisions w/ @mitchellreports pic.twitter.com/2qeO83ubNY  Inside with Jen Psaki (@InsideWithPsaki) June 30, 2023

Sources: Prosecutors are prepared to hit Trump and his allies with new charges

Friday 30 June 2023 20:20 , Oliver O'Connell

The Department of Justice is prepared to seek indictments against multiple figures in former president Donald Trumps orbit and may yet bring additional charges against the ex-president in the coming weeks, The Independent has learned.

Andrew Feinberg filed this exclusive report for The Independent.

Prosecutors are prepared to hit Trump and his allies with new charges, sources say

Geraldo Rivera praises affirmative action in final Fox News appearance

Friday 30 June 2023 18:45 , Oliver O'Connell

Geraldo Rivera used his final appearance on Fox News to praise affirmative action amid the Supreme Court ruling against colleges considering race in their admissions process.

The Fox News host revealed on Thursday that he was quitting the network after he claimed that he had been fired from The Five.

Gustaf Kilander and Shweta Sharma have the story.

Geraldo Rivera praises affirmative action in final Fox News appearance

Watch: LAAD president slams SCOTUS ruling in favour of a Christian web designer who opposed same-sex weddings

Friday 30 June 2023 18:25 , Oliver O'Connell

I think that this is an open license to discriminate against LGBTQ people in America. https://t.co/Ebc8JosA0A  The Recount (@therecount) June 30, 2023

Supreme Court deals major blow to LGBT+ rights

Friday 30 June 2023 18:15 , Oliver O'Connell

A wedding website designer may refuse to create work for people in the LGBT+ community if it conflicts with their religious beliefs, the Supreme Court ruled on Friday.

In a 6-3 decision, the conservative majority of the Court ruled in favor of Lorie Smith, a Colorado-based website creator, who wanted to refuse service to same-sex couples but couldnt as it was a violation of a public accommodation law.

The Court argued that the public accommodation law in Colorado impedes Ms Smiths First Amendment right to deny conveying messages she disagrees with.

Ariana Baio reports on todays decision.

Supreme Court allows Colorado designer to deny LGBT+ customers in ruling

Christie says McCarthy spoke correctly about Trump the first time

Friday 30 June 2023 17:45 , Oliver O'Connell

Former New Jersey governor and presidential Republican presidential candidate Chris Christie told CNN that House Speaker Kevin McCarthy was right in his initial assessment about whether former president Donald Trump was the strongest candidate to beat Joe Biden in a general election contest.

Earlier this week, Mr McCarthy said he was not sure that Mr Trump was the strongest candidate to beat Mr Biden.

Eric Garcia reports.

Chris Christie says McCarthy spoke correctly about Trump the first time

Report: Top Trump aide revealed as individual he allegedly showed classified map

Friday 30 June 2023 20:18 , Oliver O'Connell

The identity of an aide to Donald Trump whose voice was heard in an audio recording wherein the former president can be heard brandishing a paper he explicitly claims is classified has been revealed.

Read more...

Top Trump aide revealed as individual he allegedly showed classified map, report says

Hours before arrest, Jan 6 fugitive shared Trump post revealing Obamas address

Friday 30 June 2023 16:55 , Oliver O'Connell

A January 6 rioter on the run from the law who was arrested outside the Washington DC home of former President Barack Obama shared a social media post by ex-president Donald Trump revealing his predecessors address hours before he was detained.

Taylor Taranto, 37, was arrested on Thursday on charges stemming from his activities during the Capitol riot in early 2021. But he was also discovered to have several firearms and the materials needed to make a Molotov cocktail in the neighbourhood of the US capital where the Obamas live.

The matter is being reviewed by the FBIs Joint Terrorism Task Force.

Gustaf Kilander has the story.

Jan 6 fugitive shared Trump post revealing Obamas address hours before arrest

RFK Jr says he is proud to have Trumps praise

Friday 30 June 2023 16:45 , Oliver O'Connell

Robert F Kennedy Jr., the longshot presidential candidate and latest scion of the storied Kennedy political dynasty, appears to be leaning in to the Democrat in name only label that is beginning to follow his campaign.

John Bowden explains.

Robert F Kennedy Jr says he is proud to have Trumps praise

US envoy for Iran has security clearance suspended

Friday 30 June 2023 16:15 , Oliver O'Connell

The US special envoy for Iran, Rob Malley, had his security clearance suspended pending a review of allegations he may have mishandled classified information, said US officials.

Namita Singh has the details.

US envoy for Iran has security clearance suspended amid probe

Trump demanded get my boxes back from feds

Friday 30 June 2023 15:45 , Oliver O'Connell

As Donald Trumps lawyers began preparing for a federal indictment, the ex-president was allegedly still hoping to get the documents and boxes seized from Mar-a-Lago back, according to a report.

Mr Trump referred to the classified material as my boxes and my documents and asked his lawyers to retrieve the material, sources with direct knowledge of the matter told Rolling Stone.

Ariana Baio reports.

Trump demanded to get my boxes back from feds as indictment loomed

Biden groans when asked if Trump would have tipped Putin off to coup attempt

Friday 30 June 2023 15:15 , Oliver O'Connell

President Biden on Thursday said he tries not to consider the national security issues that wouldve been in play had Donald Trump defeated him in the 2020 election and remained in the White House during Russias war on Ukraine.

Andrew Feinberg reports.

Biden groans when asked if Trump would have tipped Putin off to coup attempt

Ex-Trump aide reportedly joins Giuliani in cooperating with special counsel

Friday 30 June 2023 15:08 , Oliver O'Connell

A former Trump campaign aide has joined Rudy Guiliani in cooperating with the special counsel in the Department of Justices2020 election probe, according to a new report.

Mike Roman, a senior adviser on Donald Trumps 2020 campaign in charge of Election Day operations, is cooperating with federal prosecutors working for special counsel Jack Smith in the criminal investigation reviewing the efforts to overturn the 2020 election, according to CNN.

Gustaf Kilander has the details.

Ex-Trump aide joins Giuliani in cooperating with special counsel in election probe

Trump loses bid to throw out E Jean Carroll defamation lawsuit

Friday 30 June 2023 15:00 , Oliver O'Connell

Donald Trump has lost his bid to throw out the first defamation lawsuit brought against him by E Jean Carroll.

On Thursday, US district judge Lewis Kaplan in Manhattan rejected the former presidents claims that he had absolute presidential immunity from the civil case, paving the way for the magazine columnist to pursue around $10m in damages from him.

The former president had claimed that he had absolute presidential immunity from the lawsuit and that many of his statements about the magazine columnist were protected under free speech rights because they were his opinion.

Read the full story here:

Trump loses bid to throw out E Jean Carroll lawsuit

Trump deadline to respond to trial date set for 10 July

Friday 30 June 2023 14:58 , Oliver O'Connell

A Florida federal judge is giving Donald Trumps defence team until 10 July to respond to special counsel Jack Smiths request to delay his federal criminal trial until December.

New: Trump deadline to respond to DOJ request to have trial starting in December pushed back to July 10 after Trump valet Walt Nauta had his arraignment postponed until next Thursday, per minute order from Judge Cannon  delays already starting to add up on this docket.  Hugo Lowell (@hugolowell) June 30, 2023

Watch: Ron DeSantis talks about his war on woke text books

Friday 30 June 2023 14:47 , Oliver O'Connell

Gov. Ron DeSantis (R-FL) on "woke" textbooks at Moms for Liberty summit:



We've been actively involved in rejecting textbooks that have ideological indoctrination  And guess what happens, because were an 800-pound gorilla, they make the appropriate changes to the textbooks. pic.twitter.com/Q5ph34zy0U  The Recount (@therecount) June 30, 2023

Moms for Liberty gathering draws Trump, DeSantis

Friday 30 June 2023 14:45 , Oliver O'Connell

Former President Donald Trump and Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, the main rivals for the Republican presidential nomination, are speaking today at the annual gathering of Moms for Liberty, a two-year-old group that has fiercely opposed instruction related to race and gender identity in the nations classroom.

Trump, DeSantis among 2024 GOP hopefuls set to appear at Moms for Liberty gathering

Exclusive: Prosecutors are prepared to hit Trump and his allies with new charges, sources say

Friday 30 June 2023 14:15 , Oliver O'Connell

The Department of Justice is prepared to seek indictments against multiple figures in former president Donald Trumps orbit and may yet bring additional charges against the ex-president in the coming weeks, The Independent has learned.

According to sources familiar with the matter, the department has made preparations to bring what is known as a superseding indictment  a second set of charges against an already-indicted defendant that could include more serious crimes  against the ex-president, and could do so in a number of different venues, depending on how prosecutors feel the case they have brought against him in a Florida federal court is proceeding.

Andrew Feinberg reports for The Independent.

Prosecutors are prepared to hit Trump and his allies with new charges, sources say

ICYMI: Paul Ryan says former president is only GOP candidate who would lose to Biden

Friday 30 June 2023 13:45 , Oliver O'Connell

Former House Speaker Paul Ryan says he believes any 2024 Republican presidential candidate could beat incumbent president Joe Biden provided they are not named Donald Trump, but that it will be a disaster if we nominate Trump.

Mr Ryan, a Trump adversary and member of the board of Fox Newss parent company, made the remarks in an appearance on CNBCs Squawk Box on Wednesday morning.

Read more...

Paul Ryan says Trump is only Republican candidate who would lose to Biden in 2024

Were electing idiots: Cheney lays out damning problem with US politics

Friday 30 June 2023 13:15 , Oliver O'Connell

Former Rep Liz Cheney of Wyoming took aim at the state of American politics, telling a crowd at the 92nd Street Y in New York that the country is electing idiots.

Look, I think that the country right now faces hugely challenging and fundamentally important issues, Ms Cheney said during an appearance at the community center, in quotes reported by The Hill. What weve done in our politics is create a situation where were electing idiots.

Abe Asher reports on what else the former representative had to say.

Liz Cheney lays out damning problem with US politics: Were electing idiots

Ron DeSantis hits back at Trump claims hes disloyal: Politicians have to earn support

Friday 30 June 2023 12:45 , Rachel Sharp

DeSantis on Trump claims that hes disloyal: Politicians have to earn support. Theyre not entitled to it. No more excuses on the issues Americans care about, Im here to get stuff done. pic.twitter.com/Eji1cuY26i  Jesse Watters (@JesseBWatters) June 30, 2023

Report says top Trump aide revealed as individual he allegedly showed classified map

Friday 30 June 2023 12:15 , Oliver O'Connell

The identity of an aide to Donald Trump whose voice was heard in an audio recording wherein the former president can be heard brandishing a paper he explicity claims is classified has been revealed.

John Bowden reports on the aides identity.

Top Trump aide revealed as individual he allegedly showed classified map, report says

Trump loses bid to throw out E Jean Carroll case

Friday 30 June 2023 11:45 , Rachel Sharp

Donald Trump has lost his bid to throw out the first lawsuit brought against him by E Jean Carroll.

The former president had claimed that he had absolute presidential immunity from the lawsuit and that many of his statements about the magazine columnist were protected because they were his opinion.

He argued that Ms Carroll consented to his statements by purposely waiting decades to go public, until he was in the White House, leaving him no choice but to defend himself.

Ultimately, he said the case should be thrown out.

On Thursday, US district judge Lewis Kaplan in Manhattan rejected this claim saying there was no merit to his argument.

Joe Biden gives emphatic response to question on Hunter Biden texts

Friday 30 June 2023 11:15 , Oliver O'Connell

President Joe Biden is facing increasing pressure to answer questions  in detail  about his son Hunter Biden and a concerning text message that has been unearthed as the questions surrounding the latters business activities are growing more serious.

And on Wednesday, the president bristled at a reporter who asked him about it, just days after Karine Jean-Pierre, his press secretary, was inundated with questions on the topic at her daily news briefing.

Mr Biden was boarding Marine One as he began a trip to Chicago to tout his administrations economic record when a reporter questioned him about one message in which the younger Biden appears to directly put pressure on an individual named Henry Zhao to resolve an unknown matter  while explicitly naming his father as an interested party.

John Bowden has the story.

Biden gives emphatic response to question about troubling Hunter text

WATCH: Trump releases bizarre apocalyptic campaign video

Friday 30 June 2023 10:45 , Rachel Sharp

Weird apocalyptic video posted by Trump on Truth Social tonight: This is the final battle  pic.twitter.com/lBzgqCRYz3  Ron Filipkowski (@RonFilipkowski) June 30, 2023

Top Democrat says GOP had evidence disproving Biden bribery claims in 2019

Friday 30 June 2023 10:15 , Oliver O'Connell

The top Democrat on the House Oversight Committee has released evidence that casts significant doubt on GOP claims that the FBI ignored evidence that President Joe Biden accepted a bribe from a Ukrainian energy mogul during his time as vice president.

In a letter to House Oversight Committee chair James Comer, Maryland Representative Jamie Raskin reminded his GOP counterpart that Congress has had evidence that directly contradicts the allegations levied against Mr Biden in an FBI form which Republicans have claimed to be proof of alleged corruption on the part of the president.

Andrew Feinberg has the details.

GOP had evidence disproving Biden bribery claims in 2019, top Democrat says

Ex-Trump official joins Guiliani in cooperating in 2020 election probe

Friday 30 June 2023 09:45 , Rachel Sharp

Donald Trumps legal troubles appear to be heating up, with his former campaign official Mike Roman reportedly cooperating with investigators probing the former presidents efforts to overturn the 2020 election.

Two sources told CNN on Thursday that Mr Roman has taken a proffer agreement to cooperate with special counsel Jack Smiths office in its investigation.

Mr Roman was involved in Mr Trumps scheme to put forward fake electors to certify the election in his favour in states that President Joe Biden had won.

This revelation comes after it was reported that Rudy Guiliani had also taken such an agreement.

Under a proffer agreement, an individual shares information with investigators on the agreement that that information cannot be used against them in court.

House GOP expand their Hunter Biden investigation by seeking an interview with the lead prosecutor

Friday 30 June 2023 08:15 , Oliver O'Connell

House Republicans on Thursday requested voluntary testimony from nearly a dozen Justice Department officials involved in the investigation of President Joe Bidens son Hunter as GOP lawmakers widen their scrutiny into what they claim is improper interference by the agency.

Read more...

Republicans expand their Hunter Biden investigation by seeking an interview with the lead prosecutor

Pence meets with Zelensky in Ukraine

Friday 30 June 2023 06:15 , Oliver O'Connell

Former vice president Mike Pence visited with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in a sign of solidarity with Ukraine even as many Republicans sour on support for Ukraine, CNN reported.

Eric Garcia reports on the 2024 candidates visit.

Mike Pence meets with Zelensky in Ukraine

Did DeSantis break the law with Texas border trip?

Friday 30 June 2023 04:15 , Oliver O'Connell

Gustaf Kilander reports.

DeSantis accused of breaking the law with Texas border trip

Three charged with insider trading in Trump Media deal

Friday 30 June 2023 03:15 , Oliver O'Connell

Three investors in the special purpose acquisition company (SPAC) that took Trump Media public have been indicted for insider trading concerning the deal, making $22m in alleged lillegal trades.

Michael Shvartsman, Gerald Shvartsman and Bruce Garelick were named in a federal indictment unsealed on Thursday (29 June) in Manhattan federal court.

All three were charged with trading in securities of Digital World Acquisition Corporation (DWAC) based on non-public information about the companys planned business combination with Trump Media & Technology Group  founded by former President Donald Trump  the parent company of social media platform Truth Social.

They were arrested on Thursday morning in Florida.

Trump Media investors charged in $22m insider trading case

Christie says McCarthy spoke correctly about Trump the first time

Friday 30 June 2023 02:15 , Oliver O'Connell

Former New Jersey governor and presidential Republican presidential candidate Chris Christie told CNN that House Speaker Kevin McCarthy was right in his initial assessment about whether former president Donald Trump was the strongest candidate to beat Joe Biden in a general election contest.

Earlier this week, Mr McCarthy said he was not sure that Mr Trump was the strongest candidate to beat Mr Biden.

Eric Garcia reports.

Chris Christie says McCarthy spoke correctly about Trump the first time

Trumps GOP support dips slightly after his indictment, poll finds

Friday 30 June 2023 01:15 , Oliver O'Connell

Former President Donald Trumps criminal indictment on charges of mishandling government secrets appears to have dented his popularity among Republicans  but only slightly - according to a new poll from The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research.

Sixty percent of Republicans now have a favorable view of Trump, down slightly from April, when 68% of Republicans said they had a favorable view of the 2024 GOP presidential front-runner. The poll found 38% of Republicans have an unfavorable view of Trump, an uptick from 30% in April.

Read more...

Trump's GOP support dips slightly after his indictment over classified documents, AP-NORC poll finds

Exclusive: Prosecutors are prepared to hit Trump and his allies with new charges, sources say

Friday 30 June 2023 00:15 , Oliver O'Connell

The Department of Justice is prepared to seek indictments against multiple figures in former president Donald Trumps orbit and may yet bring additional charges against the ex-president in the coming weeks, The Independent has learned.

According to sources familiar with the matter, the department has made preparations to bring what is known as a superseding indictment  a second set of charges against an already-indicted defendant that could include more serious crimes  against the ex-president in the Southern District of Florida.

But prosecutors may also choose to bring additional charges against Mr Trump in a different venue, depending on how they feel the case they have brought against him in is proceeding.

Andrew Feinberg reports for The Independent.

Prosecutors are prepared to hit Trump and his allies with new charges, sources say

Biden is wrapping a campaign fundraising blitz aimed at making a bold early statement

Thursday 29 June 2023 23:15 , Oliver O'Connell

President Joe Biden has cozied up to high-dollar donors at posh Upper East Side penthouses and on West Coast decks gussied up with floral arrangements and flags in recent weeks. He has two more fundraisers in New York on Thursday that will close out an end-of-quarter campaign blitz his team believes will put him on strong financial footing for a contest they expect to set new spending records.

Fridays events will be Bidens 9th and 10th fundraising receptions of the past two weeks, numbers that have been matched by Vice President Kamala Harris, first lady Jill Biden, and second gentleman Doug Emhoff. The Biden campaign has been mum on how much he has raised at the often free-wheeling events, but it is broadcasting confidence in the size of the haul ahead of the July 15 reporting date.

Read more...

Biden is wrapping a campaign fundraising blitz aimed at making a bold early statement

Trump celebrates Supreme Court decision on affirmative action

Thursday 29 June 2023 22:45 , Oliver O'Connell

Former President Donald Trump celebrated the Supreme Courts decision to reject affirmative action programmes at US colleges and universities on Wednesday morning, calling it a a great day for America.

In a post on Truth Social, Mr Trump said that the ruling was amazing.

Abe Asher has the story.

Trump celebrates Supreme Court ruling on affirmative action: The way it should be!

Biden groans when asked if Trump would have tipped Putin off to coup attempt

Thursday 29 June 2023 22:30 , Oliver O'Connell

President Biden on Thursday said he tries not to consider the national security issues that wouldve been in play had Donald Trump defeated him in the 2020 election and remained in the White House during Russias war on Ukraine.

Specifically, Mr Biden told MSNBCs Nicolle Wallace that he actively attempts to keep such thoughts out of his head when Wallace asked if he thought Mr Trump would have tipped off Russian President Vladimir Putin to the abortive coup attempt waged by Wagner Group leader Yevgeny Prigozhin over the weekend.

Andrew Feinberg reports.

Biden groans when asked if Trump would have tipped Putin off to coup attempt

Trump says DeSantis campaign like a rock heading to Hell

Thursday 29 June 2023 22:15 , Oliver O'Connell

Another day, another potshot at Ron DeSantiss 2024 campaign. Heres what former president Donald Trump had to say today:

The DeSanctimonious campaign is DEAD! His polls are dropping like a rock heading to Hell, and the DOJ/FBI are continuing their illegal and outrageous weaponization against me only because I am leading Biden by so much. Its called ELECTION INTERFERENCE, and they have NO FEAR against DeSanctus - Hes the one that they are dying to run against, dispute their DISINFORMATION CAMPAIGN!

Watch: Biden says theres still a lot of really good Republicans'

Thursday 29 June 2023 22:00 , Oliver O'Connell

President Biden: "By the way, there's still a lot of really good Republicans."@NicolleDWallace: "Out in the country?"



Biden: "No, and in the Senate!" pic.twitter.com/YrSSgVWxED  The Recount (@therecount) June 29, 2023

Report: Top Trump aide revealed as individual he allegedly showed classified map

Thursday 29 June 2023 21:45 , Oliver O'Connell

The identity of an aide to Donald Trump whose voice was heard in an audio recording wherein the former president can be heard brandishing a paper he explicity claims is classified has been revealed.

John Bowden has the story.

Top Trump aide revealed as individual he allegedly showed classified map, report says

Watch: Biden defends poll numbers

Thursday 29 June 2023 21:28 , Oliver O'Connell

"I know the polling numbers are not good, but they were the same way when I ran and won  everybody thought I was gonna get clobbered in the primary; I got 80 million votes in the last election."



 President Biden to @NicolleDWallace pic.twitter.com/TIYTHZMnbp  The Recount (@therecount) June 29, 2023

Trump to deliver remarks in Iowa on 7 July

Thursday 29 June 2023 21:15 , Oliver O'Connell

Former President Donald Trump will deliver remarks at an event in Council Bluffs, Iowa on 7 July.

45th President of the United States Donald J. Trump to Deliver Remarks in Council Bluffs, Iowahttps://t.co/BFZes2AzgF pic.twitter.com/GJ5FuxNaVC  Liz Harrington (@realLizUSA) June 29, 2023

Lev Parnas reacts to Raskin evidence

Thursday 29 June 2023 20:50 , Oliver O'Connell

Lev Parnas took to Twitter in reaction to Rep Jamie Raskins release of evidence that casts doubt on Republican claims that the FBI ignored evidence the President Biden accepted a bribe from a Ukrainian energy mogul.

He wrote:

Ranking Member Jamie Raskin introduces evidence that I provided to the @OversightDems that debunks the lies and conspiracy theories that Rudy Giuliani, @RepMTG, @RepJamesComer and their corrupt cohorts in the @GOP have been pushing on the American people.

@RepRaskin - Despite being interviewed as part of a campaign by Mr. Giuliani and his proxies in 2019 and 2020 to procure damaging information about the Biden family, Mr. Zlochevsky explicitly and unequivocally denied those allegations. Specifically, Mr. Zlochevsky denied (1) that anyone at Burisma had any contacts with then former Vice President Biden or his representatives while Hunter Biden served on the Burisma board, and (2) that former Vice President Biden or his staff in any way assisted Mr. Zlochevsky or Burisma,.

Ranking Member Jamie Raskin introduces evidence that I provided to the @OversightDems that debunks the lies and conspiracy theories that Rudy Giuliani, @RepMTG, @RepJamesComer and their corrupt cohorts in the @GOP have been pushing on the American people. @RepRaskin - Despite  Lev Parnas (@levparnas) June 29, 2023

Raskin: GOP had evidence disproving Biden bribery claims in 2019

Thursday 29 June 2023 20:30 , Oliver O'Connell

The top Democrat on the House Oversight Committee has released evidence that casts significant doubt on GOP claims that the FBI ignored evidence that President Joe Biden accepted a bribe from a Ukrainian energy mogul during his time as vice president.

In a letter to House Oversight Committee chair James Comer, Maryland Representative Jamie Raskin reminded his GOP counterpart that Congress has had evidence that directly contradicts the allegations levied against Mr Biden in an FBI form which Republicans have claimed to be proof of alleged corruption on the part of the president.

Andrew Feinberg reports.

GOP had evidence disproving Biden bribery claims in 2019, top Democrat says

Watch: Bannon rages at Comer over Fox interview

Thursday 29 June 2023 20:00 , Oliver O'Connell

Steve Bannon is fuming after another feckless interview this morning on Fox by James Comer, who looked like a fool again trying to answer questions on the Hunter Biden investigation: Your staff has to have you ready! Youre not serious. Its all performative. pic.twitter.com/63lDJyl9eZ  Ron Filipkowski (@RonFilipkowski) June 29, 2023

DeSantis mocked for apparently photoshopped campaign photo

Thursday 29 June 2023 19:45 , Oliver O'Connell

Presidential hopeful Ron DeSantis has been ridiculed for a seemingly photoshopped campaign photograph that has resurfaced as the Republican presidential primary begins to take shape.

The image was taken for Mr DeSantiss brief campaign for Senate in 2015 ahead of the 2016 election when incumbent Florida Senator Marco Rubio was running for president before campaigning for re-election to the upper chamber.

Read on...

DeSantis mocked for apparently photoshopped resurfaced campaign photo

EXCLUSIVE: Prosecutors are prepared to hit Trump and his allies with new charges, sources say

Thursday 29 June 2023 19:18 , Oliver O'Connell

The Department of Justice is prepared to seek indictments against multiple figures in former president Donald Trumps orbit and may yet bring additional charges against the ex-president in the coming weeks, The Independent has learned.

According to sources familiar with the matter, the department has made preparations to bring what is known as a superseding indictment  a second set of charges against an already-indicted defendant that could include more serious crimes  against the ex-president, and could do so in a number of different venues, depending on how prosecutors feel the case they have brought against him in a Florida federal court is proceeding.

Read the full story by The Independents Andrew Feinberg in Washington, DC.

Prosecutors are prepared to hit Trump and his allies with new charges, sources say

Federal grand jury still investigating aspects of classified documents case, report says

Thursday 29 June 2023 19:00 , Oliver O'Connell

Three weeks after Donald Trump was indicted on charges of illegally retaining classified national security documents and obstructing the governments efforts to reclaim them, a federal grand jury in Miami is still investigating aspects of the case, The New York Times reports, citing people familiar with the matter.

Per the Times:

In recent days, the grand jury has issued subpoenas to a handful of people who are connected to the inquiry, those familiar with it said. While it remains unclear who received the subpoenas and the kind of information prosecutors were seeking to obtain, it is clear that the grand jury has stayed active and that investigators are digging even after a 38-count indictment was issued this month against Mr. Trump and a co-defendant, Walt Nauta, one of his personal aides.

Prosecutors often continue investigating strands of a criminal case after charges have been brought, and sometimes their efforts go nowhere. But at other times post-indictment investigations result in additional charges against people who have already been accused of crimes in the case. The investigations can also be used to bring new charges against new defendants.

Watch: Would Chris Christie pardon Donald Trump?

Thursday 29 June 2023 18:40 , Oliver O'Connell

The former New Jersey governor weighs in on the power of the president to pardon people and whether it would apply to Donald Trump were he convicted of the various crimes of which he is accused.

'I don't think I would pardon him,' says Chris Christie, one of Donald Trump's most outspoken critics in the 2024 GOP primary field, in regards to Trump's ongoing prosecution over the DOJ's classified documents probe pic.twitter.com/NGaq9xXxLY  NowThis (@nowthisnews) June 29, 2023

Joe Biden gives emphatic response to question about troubling Hunter text

Thursday 29 June 2023 18:20 , Oliver O'Connell

President Joe Biden is facing increasing pressure to answer questions  in detail  about his son Hunter Biden and a concerning text message that has been unearthed as the questions surrounding the latters business activities are growing more serious.

And on Wednesday, the president bristled at a reporter who asked him about it, just days after Karine Jean-Pierre, his press secretary, was inundated with questions on the topic at her daily news briefing.

John Bowden in Washington, DC, reports on what the president has said so far.

Insider trading: Trump Media investors charged in $22m case

Thursday 29 June 2023 18:05 , Oliver O'Connell

Three investors in the special purpose acquisition company (SPAC) that took Trump Media public have been indicted for insider trading concerning the deal, making $22m in alleged lillegal trades.

Michael Shvartsman, Gerald Shvartsman and Bruce Garelick were named in a federal indictment unsealed on Thursday (29 June) in Manhattan federal court.

All three were charged with trading in securities of Digital World Acquisition Corporation (DWAC) based on non-public information about the companys planned business combination with Trump Media & Technology Group  founded by former President Donald Trump  the parent company of social media platform Truth Social.

They were arrested on Thursday morning in Florida.

Full story here:

Trump Media investors charged in $22m insider trading case

Trump hails Supreme Court decision on affirmative action

Thursday 29 June 2023 17:45 , Oliver O'Connell

Donald Trump hails Supreme Court decision on affirmative action as a great day for America.

The former president posted on Truth Social:

This is a great day for America. People with extraordinary ability and everything else necessary for success, including future greatness for our Country, are finally being rewarded. This is the ruling everyone was waiting and hoping for and the result was amazing. It will also keep us competitive with the rest of the world. Our greatest minds must be cherished and thats what this wonderful day has brought. Were going back to all merit-basedand thats the way it should be!

Heres our coverage of the ruling:

Supreme Court bans colleges from considering race in admissions

Did DeSantis break the law with Texas border trip?

Thursday 29 June 2023 17:30 , Oliver O'Connell

The presidential campaign of Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has been accused of breaking the law after the team shared an image on Twitter of the candidate exiting a helicopter that records show is owned by the Texas Department of Public Safety.

Mr DeSantis was in Eagle Pass, Texas on Monday to visit the US-Mexico border when the campaign shared the photo with the caption MISSION: Stop the invasion STATUS: Critical LEAD: @RonDeSantis.

Legal experts now say that the use of Texas government resources in a political ad is a campaign finance violation.

Gustaf Kilander reports.

DeSantis accused of breaking the law with Texas border trip

Pence meets with Zelensky in Ukraine

Thursday 29 June 2023 17:15 , Oliver O'Connell

Former vice president Mike Pence visited with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in a sign of solidarity with Ukraine even as many Republicans sour on support for Ukraine, CNN reported.

Eric Garcia has the latest:

Mike Pence meets with Zelensky in Ukraine

Is Rudy Giuliani negotiating a plea deal over efforts to overturn 2020 election?

Thursday 29 June 2023 16:55 , Oliver O'Connell

Slate has followed up on reporting by CNN and The New York Times this week that Rudy Giuliani, former Mayor of New York and Donald Trumps personal attorney during his administration, has voluntarily met with investigators from Special Counsel Jack Smiths office as part of a proffer agreement.

This raises the possibility that he might flip against his former boss ex-president Trump.

Per Robert Katzberg, former federal prosecutor who has defended high-profile white-collar criminal cases for more than four decades, writing in Slate:

While the Times was not specific about what Giulianis voluntary interview means, such proffer sessions are almost always the final step towards a plea deal. If one is consummated in Smiths investigation of Trumps efforts to overturn the 2020 electionwhich were spearheaded by Giulianiit would both be a deeply ironic end for one of the countrys most bulldog former prosecutors and also a devastating blow to the former president.

As someone deeply enmeshed in the New York City white collar criminal defense world during Giulianis tenure as US Attorney for the Southern District of New York, reports that he sat for an extensive proffer session with prosecutors investigating the events surrounding the Jan 6 riot boggles the mind.

He further explains the process:

Once counsel concludes the client has something valuable to offer prosecutors and that the client can be an effective witness, the next step can be taken. Counsel contacts the prosecutors and arranges an attorneys proffer, in which the lawyer, without the client, meets prosecutors to outline the general contours of what the client can provide. If the contours are unacceptable, say the client wants an agreement he will not be prosecuted for providing evidence against a lesser target, the session ends quickly. If, however, both sides see the prospect for getting something they want without giving up too much, the session gets more and more specific. It is only if the attorneys factual representations offer enough for prosecutors to offer sufficiently reduced criminal exposure, and thus, a realistic deal may be available, that the next to last step, the client proffer, is taken. Giuliani has reportedly now taken that step.

You can read the full piece here.

Christie says McCarthy spoke correctly about Trump the first time

Thursday 29 June 2023 16:45 , Oliver O'Connell

Former New Jersey governor and presidential Republican presidential candidate Chris Christie told CNN that House Speaker Kevin McCarthy was right in his initial assessment about whether former president Donald Trump was the strongest candidate to beat Joe Biden in a general election contest.

Earlier this week, Mr McCarthy said he was not sure that Mr Trump was the strongest candidate to beat Mr Biden.

Eric Garcia reports from Washington, DC.

Chris Christie says McCarthy spoke correctly about Trump the first time

Voices: Kevin McCarthy knows he crossed the line with Donald Trump

Thursday 29 June 2023 16:15 , Oliver O'Connell

Few people embody Republicans relationship and acquiescence to Donald Trump more than House Speaker Kevin McCarthy.

Eric Garcia explains what is currently happening between the two.

Kevin McCarthy knows he crossed the line with Donald Trump

DeSantis wants to abolish IRS to fight woke ideology'

Thursday 29 June 2023 15:30 , Oliver O'Connell

Mr DeSantis said that if Congress doesnt allow him to cut agencies like the IRS  a move that could plunge the countrys tax collection system into chaos and hamper federal oversight  he is prepared to use those agencies to advance his political aims.

Abe Asher reports.

DeSantis says he would abolish education and energy departments and IRS

Watch: Christie slams DeSantiss response on January 6

Thursday 29 June 2023 15:25 , Oliver O'Connell

Chris Christie slammed Florida Governor Ron DeSantiss answer to a question about January 6 from a student in New Hampshire.

Mr DeSantis was asked whether he thought then-President Donald Trump has violated the peaceful transfer of power on January 6.

The Florida governor responded that he wasnt anywhere near Washington that day and had nothing to do with the events of the day but did not like what he saw. He then added that the country should move forward and not be mired in the past.

Former New Jersey Governor Christie was not impressed with the answer from a candidate for president and told Kaitlan Collins on CNN: He wasnt anywhere near Washington? Did he have a TV? Was he alive that day? Did he see what was going on? I mean, thats one of the most ridiculous answers Ive heard in this race so far.

Watch:

Chris Christie on Ron DeSantis's Jan. 6 answer: 'He wasnt anywhere near Washington'? Did he have a TV? Was he alive that day? Did he see what was going on? I mean, that's one of the most ridiculous answers I've heard in this race so far." pic.twitter.com/q3N04RWb7T  Kaitlan Collins (@kaitlancollins) June 29, 2023

Trumps GOP support dips slightly after his indictment, poll finds

Thursday 29 June 2023 14:45 , Oliver O'Connell

Former President Donald Trumps criminal indictment on charges of mishandling government secrets appears to have dented his popularity among Republicans  but only slightly - according to a new poll from The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research.

Read more...

Trump's GOP support dips slightly after his indictment over classified documents, AP-NORC poll finds

Were going to get into that...'

Thursday 29 June 2023 14:41 , Oliver O'Connell

Fox News Steve Doocy asks House Oversight Chair James Comer about the GOP Biden investigation: Make it easy for us. What was the crime?

Well the crime is that  trading policy for money, answers Mr Comer.

Doocy pushes: Which policy?

Mr Comer: Were gonna get into that.

Fox News Steve Doocy on GOP Biden investigation: Make it easy for us. What was the crime?



House Oversight Chair James Comer: Well the crime is that  trading policy for money.



Doocy: Which policy?



Comer: Were gonna get into that. pic.twitter.com/zm5nT6HcFL  The Recount (@therecount) June 29, 2023

Were electing idiots

Thursday 29 June 2023 14:05 , Oliver O'Connell

Former Rep Liz Cheney of Wyoming took aim at the state of American politics, telling a crowd at the 92nd Street Y in New York that the country is electing idiots.

Look, I think that the country right now faces hugely challenging and fundamentally important issues, Ms Cheney said during an appearance at the community centre, in quotes reported by The Hill. What weve done in our politics is create a situation where were electing idiots.

Abe Asher has the story.

Liz Cheney lays out damning problem with US politics: Were electing idiots

Newsmax host offers bizarre classified documents defence for Trump

Thursday 29 June 2023 13:45 , Oliver O'Connell

Newsmax host Lidia Curanaj argued on Tuesday that Mr Trump could have been lying at the time.

Which is a pretty novel defence as they run for office.

Newsmax host offers bizarre defence of Trump over leaked audio

Paul Ryan says Trump is only candidate who would lose to Biden

Thursday 29 June 2023 13:15 , Oliver O'Connell

Former House Speaker Paul Ryan says he believes any 2024 Republican presidential candidate could beat incumbent president Joe Biden provided they are not named Donald Trump, but that it will be a disaster if we nominate Trump.

Read more...

Paul Ryan says Trump is only Republican candidate who would lose to Biden in 2024

Bravado

Thursday 29 June 2023 12:30 , Oliver O'Connell

Former president Donald Trump has said that he did not show off classified documents in the leaked audio clip in which he referred to highly confidential material, claiming he was merely speaking with bravado.

Eric Garcia reports.

Trumps latest defence in the classified documents case: Bravado

Click here to read the full blog on The Independent's website
Former President Donald Trump in a 2020 phone call attempted to pressure Arizona Gov. Doug Ducey to overturn his states election results, according to a new report.

Three people familiar with the call, who asked not to be identified, told The Washington Post that Trump phoned Ducey and asked him to investigate allegations of voter fraud, which Trump believed would justify overturning the election.

Trump also asked then-Vice President Mike Pence call the Arizona governor to push him into supporting his fraud claims, according to the Post. While they did discuss the election on several occasions, Pence did not pressure Ducey as his boss requested, two people familiar with the conversations said.

Trump lost to Joe Biden in Arizona by more than 10,000 votes and no evidence has been uncovered to support his claims of voter fraud.

While Ducey told reporters in December 2020 that he and Trump had spoken, he declined to provide details about the call. Almost three years later, Ducey still has not publicly discussed his conversations with the former president. He did confide in a major Republican donor earlier this year, saying he felt pressure to follow through on Trumps request, according to the Post.

In the same conversation with the donor, Ducey said he was surprised he wasnt contacted by special counsel Jack Smith, who has been tasked with investigating Trumps efforts to overturn the 2020 election, according to the donor, who spoke to the paper on the condition of anonymity.

Ducey, who left office earlier this year because of term limits, did not record the call with Trump, people familiar with the matter said. He also declined to comment when reached by The Washington Post.

This is neither new nor is it news to anyone following this issue the last two years, a spokesman for Ducey said in a statement. Governor Ducey defended the results of Arizonas 2020 election, he certified the election, and he made it clear that the certification provided a trigger for credible complaints backed by evidence to be brought forward. None were ever brought forward.
Trump said Putin told him he was the most 'vicious' president ever but they still got along

Former President Donald Trump speaks to crowd during a campaign event on July 1, 2023 in Pickens, South Carolina. Sean Rayford/Getty Images

Donald Trump boasted about his relationship with Vladimir Putin at a South Carolina rally.

Trump said Putin described him as "vicious," but they still got along.

Trump has often talked about how his relationship with Putin in positive terms.

Former President Donald Trump boasted about his relationship with Russian President Vladimir Putin while speaking at a rally in South Carolina on Saturday.

"As Putin said, 'You are the most vicious president ever.' There's never been a president that did this to me. And yet I got along with him. Isn't that nice?" Trump told his MAGA supporters in Pickens, a rural community in the southern state.

During his presidency, Trump appeared friendly towards Putin and was reluctant to criticize Russia over reports of interference in the 2016 US presidential election. His administration did also impose several rounds of sanctions on the country.

Trump has continued to praise Putin for being "smart" and "genius" even after he began his unprovoked invasion of Ukraine.

He has often baselessly claimed that Putin would never have invaded Ukraine if he was still president.

President Donald Trump (R) and Russia's President Vladimir Putin talk as they make their way to take the "family photo" during the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) leaders' summit in the central Vietnamese city of Danang on November 11, 2017. JORGE SILVA/POOL/AFP via Getty Images

Trump has often praised world leaders seen as strongmen or dictators, such as Putin, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, and Chinese leader Xi Jinping  all of whom have also been accused of being authoritarian.

Despite Trump's claims of a relationship of mutual respect with Putin, other Washington insiders have previously implied this was not the case.

Fiona Hill, who served as the top Russia advisor on the National Security Council under Trump, previously said that Putin often became frustrated with Trump over his lack of knowledge on big issues.

Read the original article on Business Insider
Trump in SC: Tens of thousands pack Pickens. More than 50 treated for heat-related illness

Former President Donald Trump didn't have to do much convincing to impress a hometown crowd of mostly Trump supporters in Pickens Saturday.

Nearly 75 percent of Pickens County voters selected Trump over current President Joe Biden in 2020.

"I love it," Kenny Stoll, a self-described blue-collar iron worker from Summerville, S.C., said of Trump's remarks. "I don't think he lies to the people. He's true to his word and he don't back down. He fights for what's right."

Trump headlined the Pickens Independence Day Spectacular, and supporters came as early as Friday to Pickens in hopes of being among the first on Saturday to see the former president, who is leading in the polls among GOP presidential candidates.

Supporters traveled from as far away as Texas, Oklahoma, Nebraska, Indiana and Florida to attend the rally.

From Trump supporters, here's why: Lindsey Graham booed at Donald Trump rally in Pickens SC.

By daybreak Saturday, lines of people stretched all the way from East Main Street down Hampton Avenue, and along East Cedar Rock Street. At 9 a.m., the gates on East Main Street opened and people were screened by the Secret Service upon entry.

Parking was at a premium. One church offered free parking but accepted donations. Others with lots charged for parking. At one spot, spaces were being offered for $60.

Vendors lined Hampton Avenue, selling everything from Trump shirts and hats to bottled water, ice cream, mini-donuts, roasted corn and bottled honey. By afternoon, volunteers for the Trump campaign were handing out free bottles of spring water.

Closer to the stage on North Lewis Street, vendors were selling lemonade, burgers, chicken tenders, smoked sausage, soft pretzels, sweet tea and Gatorade.

Pickens Police Chief Randall Beach estimated a crowd of 50,000 showed up on a day when afternoon temperatures soared into the mid-90s, causing dozens of people to suffer from heat-related illness.

On Sunday, Beach reiterated his crowd estimate of 50,000.

"I would not be shocked if it were closer to 60 (thousand)," he said. "If someone has an estimate closer to 70 (thousand) I wouldnt question it."

Pre-rally estimates of 10,000 to 30,000 were made. During his remarks, Trump claimed the turnout was 75,000. Beach said he needed to get an accurate count from the Secret Service before providing a final number. Around 11 a.m., a secret service agent told the News there are 5,000 inside the gate and approximately 10,000 still in line.

Trump spoke for nearly an hour and a half, and people began leaving before he finished due to the extreme heat.

A woman suffering from Saturday's heat at the Trump rally in Pickens is guided into a temporary shelter inside Pickens First Baptist Church, only two blocks from where Trump spoke.

More than 50 people treated for heat-related illness

Many people tried to find places to sit in what little shade there was. Some people donned umbrellas, and others fanned themselves with papers. Clouds kept the heat down for part of the morning, with a refreshing breeze. By afternoon, the clouds disappeared and a hot and muggy July sun sent temperatures soaring into the mid-90s.

One woman near the media zone appeared to faint. The Trump team rushed to her aid and brought a chair and water for her to recover. Shortly after, Trump organizers weaved their way through the crowd and started handing out water to the large crowd.

Kenny McPeters, chairman of Pickens County Emergency Services Board, estimated at least 50 people, mostly elderly, were being treated with air conditioning and water at a temporary shelter inside Pickens First Baptist Church only two blocks from where Trump spoke.

McPeters and Beach said some people had to be transported to the local hospital for further treatment.

"Besides the church, we were using our cars, stairwells at the courthouse and police department," Beach said of finding places for heat sufferers.

Beach said there were no major incidents, and one person who tried to enter at the gate had to surrender his pistol. The person was able to retrieve the gun when they left the rally, Beach said.

If the heat wasn't enough, a severe thunderstorm came through Pickens after the rally ended, downing trees and causing widespread damage, according to Beach.

He said emergency crews were responding as of late afternoon.

Guests react as former U.S. President Donald J. Trump takes the stage during the rally in downtown Pickens, S.C. Saturday, July 1, 2023.

Trump rally in Pickens draws crowds from near and far. Supporters support former president despite federal charges.

Bailey Lehmans of Charleston, a pre-law student at Methodist University in North Carolina, said shes always been too busy working to attend any Trump rallies.

Im super excited, she said. I support him because hes real with us. He wasnt born into politics.

Kelly Clemens of Travelers Rest said she and her husband moved to South Carolina from Philadelphia, Pa., 17 years ago, and became Trump supporters in 2016 and 2020.

"His direction is my direction," she said of Trump, adding that she believes his business background and political independence help him to deliver on promises  even though she cringes when he delivers harsh criticism of opponents.

"Would he be my best friend? Probably not. But I'm voting for a president," she said. "We have a wonderful country and I want to keep it that way."

Could more indictments be coming? 'There could be others coming': Donald Trump braces supporters for more indictments

Guests react as former U.S. President Donald J. Trump takes the stage during the rally in downtown Pickens, S.C. Saturday, July 1, 2023.

Stephanie Wald of Grand Isle, Nebraska, and Melissa Cole of Tulsa, Oklahoma, said theyve been to nearly 30 Trump rallies across the nation this year.

Were about standing for patriots, truth and justice, Cole said. (Trump) told the American people, Im giving power back to the people.'

Trump's return to South Carolina comes weeks after he appeared in court in Miami June 13. Trump pled not guilty to more than 30 charges related to the alleged mishandling of classified documents, which included military information related to nuclear programs.

On the indictments facing Trump, Wald said, Its all lies. Its not going to amount to anything. Its just a distraction.Joe Sturdivant, a construction worker from Williamston, SC, said.

"He tells it like it is," Sturdivant said of Trump. "He tells you he's going to do something, and he does it."Sturdivant said he thinks the charges that Trump faces are politically motivated meant to be a distraction.

"I think they're crap," he said of the most recent indictments against Trump. "They're trying to do everything to get him out, and it's not working.

One woman who was dressed as a "Patriot" Wonder Woman said Saturday was her first Trump rally.

Tammy Milligan of Myrtle Beach said became angry when Trump was impeached, and she wanted to show her support of Trump. She said she is strongly anti-abortion.

"I love our president," she said. "Didn't God have a plan the day he was born? He stands for our God-given rights."

Guests react as former U.S. President Donald J. Trump takes the stage during the rally in downtown Pickens, S.C. Saturday, July 1, 2023. Paula Price of Georgia fans herself as she listens to Trump speak

Meanwhile, a three-generation family from Pickens said they wouldn't miss the chance to see Trump.

Virginia Powell, 91, a retired textile worker and former restaurant employee, said the country is "in the biggest mess we've ever been in, and it's up to us to clean it up."

Her son Randall Powell, a retired security worker from the Oconee Nuclear Station, said he's for Trump because he wants to bring jobs back that went to other countries in the past couple of decades.

"He cares about the people in this country," he said.

His daughter and Virginia Powell's granddaughter, Melissa Smith, is a stay-at-home mom and also a Trump supporter. She believes faith will help America overcome its problems.

"If people turned their lives over to Christ, then the problems will all solve themselves," she said.

Johnny Kemp, a construction firm manager from Greer, said he voted for Trump twice and plans to do so again.

"He helped my company out before everything went to pot three years ago,' Kemp said. "Most of the other (candidates) are lifelong politicians in the system. I feel Donald Trump loves America. He doesn't have to be here. He loves this place so much he's going to fight for it and you."

This article originally appeared on Herald-Journal: Friendly crowd of 50,000 comes Trump rally in sizzling hot Pickens
Two cases of infant botulism identified in Central Kentucky. What to watch for.

After two recent cases of infant botulism, the Madison County Health Department is urging parents to be aware of the symptoms.

The source of the illnesses and whether there is a connection between the two Madison County cases is still under investigation, said Nikita Vundi, director of the health department.

We may not ever be able to make that connection, Vundi said, but she said the health department decided to issue an alert to make families aware of the symptoms.

Infant botulism is a serious illness that requires urgent medical attention, the health department said in a statement earlier in the week. In some cases, the source of infant botulism may be honey or exposure to soil contaminated with the Clostridium botulinum bacteria.

The first symptom of infant botulism is often constipation, according to the health department. Babies may also have trouble sucking or feeding, difficulty swallowing with excess drooling, a flat expression and weak facial muscles, floppy movements and poor head control because of muscle weakness, decreased movement, a different or weaker-sounding cry and droopy eyelids. They might be more tired, irritable and have trouble breathing, the health department said.

Though many forms of botulism can be prevented, the CDC says infant botulism is often an exception.

Most infant botulism cases cannot be prevented because the bacteria that causes the disease is in soil and dust, according to the CDC. The bacteria can be found inside homes on floors, carpet, and countertops  even after cleaning. For almost all children and adults who are healthy, ingesting botulism spores is not dangerous and will not cause botulism (its the toxin that is dangerous). For reasons we do not understand, some infants get botulism when the spores get into their digestive tracts, grow, and produce the toxin.

The only avoidable source of botulism spores is honey, according to Californias Infant Botulism Treatment and Prevention Program, which is why it should not be given to babies under one year old.

Vundi said this is the time of year when local honey is for sale, soil is being tilled and some families are enjoying homemade canned goods, which the CDC says can be a source of foodborne botulism if proper canning techniques are not followed.

Vundi said anyone experiencing symptoms should seek medical treatment.

Dr. Katrina Hood, a local pediatrician, told WKYT that the illness can be treated with an anti-toxin, and babies who contract botulism are often hospitalized for two to four weeks.

She said most cases of infant botulism are seen between ages two weeks and eight months, and as childrens intestinal tracts develop, the risk of developing the illness decreases.
Two more women wounded in shelling of Balakliia, Kharkiv Oblast

On 1 July, the Russians shelled Balaklia, Izyum district, Kharkiv Oblast; Oleh Syniehubov, the head of the Oblast Military Administration, said that two women were wounded.

Source: Syniehubov on Telegram

Details: It is noted that a 65-year-old woman was injured and hospitalised as a result of the shelling of Balakliia with cluster munitions; her condition is assessed as moderate.

Later, a 73-year-old woman with a shrapnel wound turned to medics; she is being treated on an outpatient basis.

Four residential buildings, a farm building, a power line and a railway track were damaged in the city.

Meanwhile, in the village of Bohodarove, a tractor drove on a landmine during field work; no casualties occurred.

Reminder: As a result of the Russian shelling of Balakliia, on Saturday, one person was wounded, and three others, including a teenager, were injured.

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Two people charged in May shooting of man, woman and baby boy in Monticello

MONTICELLO - Two people have been arrested and charged in the May 5 shooting of a man, a woman and a baby boy in the village of Monticello.

Village of Monticello police reported Saturday that Khallid Sanders, 22, and Kessey Charles, 20, were arrested on Wednesday in the city of Farmers Branch, Texas on warrants charging them with first-degree assault, second-degree criminal possession of a weapon, first-degree criminal use of a firearm and first-degree reckless endangerment, all felonies.

They are being held in the Dallas County Jail, awaiting extradition to New York.

According to Monticello police, Sanders and Charles are accused of firing multiple rounds into a house on Holmes Street just after 10 p.m. on May 5, injuring a 27-year-old man, a 20-year-old woman and a 15-month-old baby boy. . Police have not said what the motive for the shooting was or what, if any, relationship there was between the suspects and the victims.

Sanders and Charles were developed as suspects during a joint investigation by Monticello and state police. They, along with the Sullivan County District Attorney's office and the city of Farmer's Branch Police Department, participated in arranging the arrests.

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 Times Herald-Record: Two arrested in May shooting in Monticello
Two State Police cruisers were struck in Boston while responding to a call to assist Boston Police.

According to State police, on July 2 at 12:11 a.m., a Trooper was traveling in his cruiser westbound on Canterbury Street in Boston to assist Boston police.

The trooper activated his emergency lights and sirens through multiple corrugating vehicles. According to police, a stopped vehicle in front of the troopers cruiser suddenly reversed sides hitting the left front quarter of the cruiser causing a dent and cracking the drivers side mirror glass.

The vehicle was a 2009 GMC Acadia that then continued in reverse at a high rate of speed striking the front end of another State police cruiser.

The vehicle continued reversing and also struck a blue Nissan Altima pushing that vehicles front end into a fence surrounding St. Michaels Cemetary.

The Acadia then struck a fence and became disabled.

Two suspects inside the vehicle fled the scene, and the driver jumped over the fence into St. Michaels Cemetery.

A passenger was arrested by Boston Police for possession of a firearm after a short foot pursuit.

There were no injuries during this incident.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available.

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NEW YORK  Tyler Perry is coming to the rescue.

Perry took to Instagram this week to advocate for an elderly South Carolina woman at risk of being pushed out of the Hilton Head home that has been in her family since the Civil War.

Ive pretty much been a fighter all my life, said 93-year-old Josephine Wright in an interview with local NBC affiliate WSAV.

Perry posted a clip of the interview, writing, Well, that makes two of us. Ms. Wright, please tell where to show up and what you need to help you fight.

The grandmother of 40, great-grandmother of 50 and great-great-grandmother of 16, said she was originally puzzled by the apparent crusade against her by Bailey Point Investment Group developers, who she claims have been harassing her. The company says her porch is located on their land.

She told the outlet she declined the unscrupulous and greedy developers offer to buy part of her property, to which they are claiming ownership. Theyve since filed a lawsuit against her, for which they are seeking damages.

I guess they figured I would become so unnerved with the harassment that I would say take (the offer), she added. But they dont know me. I am here to fight for what I have.

Wrights cause has also been taken up by community members and has drawn the attention of other celebs aside from Perry. Stars like Meek Mill and Fantasia Barrino have also promised their support.

This is not the first time Perry has pledged his help to the elderly. In February, People reported that Perry donated $750,000 to help prevent low-income senior citizens in Atlanta at risk of being displaced. He will reportedly continue to donate roughly $500,000 each year for the next five years to the cause.
FILE PHOTO: Asylum seekers camp out near the border as they try to cross into the U.S. without an appointment, in Nuevo Laredo

U.S. explores refugee program for non-Mexican asylum seekers in Mexico FILE PHOTO: Asylum seekers camp out near the border as they try to cross into the U.S. without an appointment, in Nuevo Laredo

By Ted Hesson and Dave Graham

WASHINGTON/MEXICO CITY (Reuters) - U.S. and Mexican officials are discussing a new U.S. refugee program for some non-Mexican asylum seekers waiting in Mexico, four sources said, part of President Joe Biden's attempts to create more legal avenues for migration.

The program would likely be open to Cuban, Haitian, Nicaraguan and Venezuelan refugees in Mexico, the sources said. Migrants would need to show they were in Mexico before June 6 to qualify, one of the sources said.

The sources - a U.S. official, a Mexican official and two people familiar with the matter who all spoke on condition of anonymity - stressed that the issue remained under discussion and no final decisions had been made. It was not clear how many people might benefit from such a program.

Hundreds of thousands of migrants from those four nations have passed through Mexico en route to the U.S. during political and economic upheaval in recent years, straining resources in both countries and putting political pressure on Biden, a Democrat seeking reelection in 2024.

The plan under discussion would allow qualifying migrants approved for refugee status to enter via the U.S. refugee resettlement program, which is only available to applicants abroad, the sources said. Unlike most migrants who claim asylum after entering the U.S., refugees receive immediate work authorization and government benefits such as housing and employment assistance.

Refugees using the U.S. resettlement program can apply to become permanent residents within one year, offering more stability than other options. To be approved, they must establish that they face persecution due to race, religion, nationality, membership in a particular social group or political opinion.

In a statement, Mexico's foreign ministry said it is in constant communication with the U.S. about expanding labor mobility and refugee protections. To that end, it said it had held discussions over various programs and policies, while always safeguarding national sovereignty.

However, Mexico has not reached any agreement with the U.S., the ministry added.

BROADER BIDEN MIGRANT STRATEGY

The Biden administration has opened up new ways for migrants to enter the U.S. legally as part of a broader strategy to discourage people from crossing the U.S.-Mexico border illegally.

Migrants waiting in Mexico can apply for U.S. entry on a smartphone app and later request asylum, but slots on the app fill up quickly. Under another Biden program, Cubans, Haitians, Nicaraguans and Venezuelans can request to enter the U.S. by air if they have U.S. sponsors.

But those routes do not provide the same benefits available to refugees or a direct path to permanent residence and eventual citizenship.

In April, the Biden administration said it aimed to admit 40,000 refugees from Latin America and the Caribbean in fiscal years 2023 and 2024, doubling a previous target. As of May 31, about 3,400 had arrived, showing that the pace would need to greatly accelerate to reach the goal.

Some refugee backers are concerned the focus on Latin America could slow processing from other parts of the world, including of refugees already waiting for approval.

The initiative under discussion would be a "Priority Two" refugee program, the sources said, similar to one opened for Afghans in 2021. Such programs allow certain groups of people to apply for refugee status directly without needing a referral from the United Nations.

Despite the discussions, Mexico has significant concerns, the Mexican official said.

If the program encourages more migrants to enter Mexico, it could tax the country's already-strained resources for dealing with migrants, the official said.

One significant concern for Mexico is where the migrants would be processed, the official said.

If the U.S. used its existing consular facilities, the plan could work, but any new U.S. center in Mexico for the purpose would be politically fraught, the official added.

Pending decisions will also require the participation of Mexicos incoming foreign minister Alicia Barcena, who is yet to be confirmed to the post, the official said.

(Reporting by Ted Hesson in Washington and Dave Graham in Mexico City; Additional reporting by Daina Beth Solomon in Mexico City and Kristina Cooke in San Francisco; Editing by Mica Rosenberg, Mary Milliken and Grant McCool)
The U.N. head believes Haiti can be rescued. Heres what he says needs to happen

United Nations Secretary General Antonio Guterres on Saturday urged the international community to continue to provide funding and equipment to Haitis beleaguered police force.

But he also said hes convinced that only a robust international force can help the police dismantle the countrys terrorizing armed gangs.

The gangs have created a terror situation in Haiti that doesnt allow any meaningful economic activity, and undermines the humanitarian support and that is a serious obstacle to any political process, Guterres said in an interview with the Miami Herald after landing in Fort Lauderdale onboard a commercial flight from Port-au-Prince.

Guterres visit to a crisis-ridden Haiti was his first as secretary general and comes amid ongoing negotiations in New York about the fate of the U.N.s political office in Port-au-Prince. The offices mandate expires later this month and the U.N. Security Council on Thursday will hear debate about the deteriorating situation in Haiti.

During his day-long visit in the country, Guterres met with members of political parties and civil society as well as Prime Minister Ariel Henry. Following the talks, Guterres said, he believes Haiti can be rescued from the present situation.

To achieve this, however, the country needs the Security Council to approve of a robust security force to accompany the ill-equipped and undermanned Haiti National Police and the ongoing political process needs to have credibility.

Haiti is currently being governed by a caretaker government, led by Henry, who came to power days after the assassination of President Jovenel Moise. Moise was shot to death inside his bedroom two years ago this month.

Made in Miami: How a South Florida plot to oust Haitis Jovenel Moise led to his murder

With the presidential murder still unresolved, Haitians have been at odds in the country over how it should be governed in the absence of an elected president or Parliament  the last 10 members of whom ended their terms in office in January. The constitutional crisis has led the United States and others in the international community to call for a broad political consensus without defining exactly what it constitutes, in order to tackle the security crisis and take the country to elections.

Last month, after three days of talks in Jamaica led by three former Caribbean prime ministers, between Henry and dozens of Haitian civic and political actors, Haitians still failed to reach an accord. But they agreed to keep talking  a step that Guterres stressed was an important one.

There are still areas of disagreement among Haitians, he said, but it was clear during his discussions on Saturday that its essential for the dialogue to continue in order for a credible, inclusive process to be fully established and in order to create conditions, when security also allows for elections.

I believe that the support of [the Caribbean Community] and the support of the international community as a whole will be an important aspect in which there is still a different perspective on the way forward to lead to the largest possible consensus, he said. I witnessed today that there is a clear will to move forward.

Guterress visit follows that of several other high-level United Nations officials including the head of the World Food Program, Cindy McCain, UNICEFs Executive Director Catherine Russell and the United Nations independent expert on human rights William ONeill. They all highlighted the countrys dire situation with 5.2 million Haitians in need of humanitarian assistance, including 3 million children, and the toll the violence by armed groups is having on the wearing population.

In addition to being forced out of their homes, Haitians are also the victims of ransom kidnappings and brutal sexual violence, which Guterres said, touches every aspect of public and private life in the country.

Port-au-Prince is surrounded by armed gangs who block the main roads leading to the northern and southern departments, control access to water and food, health care, he said in a press conference before leaving Port-au-Prince, where he also expressed solidarity with the countrys estimated 12 million residents. I remain deeply concerned about the extreme vulnerability of populations to these predatory gangs  including the disproportionate impact of this violence on women and girls.

On Sunday, Guterres will travel to Trinidad and Tobago to attend the gathering of Caribbean Community leaders, CARICOM. The 15-member regional bloc, which Haiti is a member of, is celebrating 50 years since its founding. The crisis in Haiti is among the items to be discussed. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken is also scheduled to attend the gathering.

Blinkens visit follows that of Vice President Kamala Harris, who last month met with CARICOM leaders and the president of the Dominican Republic in The Bahamas. In addition to lauding the Biden administrations commitment to the region, Harris also implored Caribbean leaders to support the push by the U.S., Guterres and others for the deployment of a force to Haiti, which the countrys caretaker government first requested back in October.

During his Haiti visit, Guterres took the opportunity to clarify just what kind of force he is advocating. During one meeting a member of the Montana Group, a coalition of civil society organizations pushing for a different kind of transition, had the impression that he was advocating for a military force that would be a kind of occupying force, he said.

Thats completely different from what Ive been advocating, and what we are proposing to the Security Council. What we need is a robust security force to be there working with the police, the Haitian police, in order to create enough muscle to be able to dismantle the gangs, Guterres said. But this force would not be accompanied by a political mission like it is the case in peacekeeping operations. It would not be essentially a military force.

Still, nine months after backing the Haitian governments request, Guterres acknowledged that there are still no countries offering to lead a deployment despite some like Jamaica, expressing interests.

I think its time now to make an extra effort to have one country willing to be the core of the force, he said. We need a country that has the kind of robust security apparatus that allows for the force to be truly effective. That is, in my opinion, the issue that we must solve. Once this issue is solved, I am optimistic the Security Council will not create any obstacle to an operation like the one I mentioned.
Ukraine will not trade off territorial integrity against NATO membership  Zelenskyy

President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy during a press conference with Prime Minister of Spain Pedro Sanchez in Kyiv, July 1, 2023

Ukraine will not trade off its territorial integrity for NATO membership and will not agree to talks on the Feb. 24 contact lines, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said at a joint press conference with Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez in Kyiv on July 1.

"Isn't that a lot of compromises for one state?" the Ukrainian leader asked.

Zelenskyy noted that with regard to NATO, Ukraine expects a clear invitation to join at the upcoming NATO summit in the Lithuanian capital of Vilnius.

Read also: Ukraines costly counteroffensive must produce results before NATO summit  Zelenskyy

"It is a very practical step, he noted.It would be very, very important to us."

The president also emphasized that Ukraine needs security guarantees until it becomes a NATO member, but that these guarantees are not an alternative to joining the Alliance.

Zelenskyy stressed that Ukraine would be ready for diplomacy with Russia only after reaching its de jure 1991 borders.

"Are we ready for a diplomatic settlement, including at the frontiers as of Feb. 24?" he wondered.

Read also: Ukraine's unprecedented frontline experience crucial for NATO security, says Zelenskyy

Those were not our borders, on Feb. 24. There was a contact line between us and the occupiers. And so we emphasize once again: Ukraine will be ready for one or another format of diplomacy when we are actually on our borders. On our real borders  in accordance with international law."

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Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine
Kyrylo Budanov

The head of Ukraines military intelligence agency, Kyrylo Budanov, has mocked rumors of his death spread by Russian propagandists, according to a video shared by public broadcaster Suspilne on July 1.

When asked by a journalist of the TV channel how he survived his "death," he replied with a smirk: "It was fine."

Read also: German publication Stern debunks Russian fake news about alleged injury to Budanov

"Well, whats the logic in there?" Budanov said, trying to explain why this fake was pushed in Russia.

"There is no logic in the actions of an alcoholic, as the saying goes. And here are drug addicts too  so, no comment."

He quoted a line of the lyrics of the song "Alcoholism" by the Ukrainian band TIK, which reads: "There is no logic in the actions of an alcoholic, vodka and beer quietly work their magic."

In an interview with journalist Valeriy Kalnysh, a representative of Ukraines Defense Intelligence, Andriy Yusov, said that Kyrylo Budanov was laughing at the Russian propaganda fake news about his "death."

Russias propaganda machine pedalled a fake that a missile allegedly hit the military intelligence building on May 29, where the head of Ukrainian intelligence, Kyrylo Budanov, was "seriously injured."

Read also: Spy chief opens up about back and neck injuries in NV interview

The Russians also falsely reported that he was "taken by helicopter to a military base in Rzeszow, Poland, where an American evacuation plane specially flew to pick him up and take him to Germany."

This has already been denied by both intelligence and foreign media. In addition, on the day of the "missile strike on the HUR," the Ukrainian intelligence published a video in which its chief emphasized another unsuccessful attempt at terrorist actions by the Russian Federation and promised an adequate response.

Earlier, Kremlin propagandists unsuccessfully tried to spread fakes about the "death" of the Armed Forces Commander-in-Chief Valerii Zaluzhnyi and other military generals. They were duly debunked, including by the commander himself.

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Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine
CIA Director William Burns says discontent in Russia over Moscow's war in Ukraine is a "once-in-a-generation opportunity" for his agency (Stefani Reynolds)

Russia's war in Ukraine has had a "corrosive" effect on Russian President Vladimir Putin, CIA Director William Burns said Saturday, with discontent over the conflict creating a "once-in-a generation opportunity" for the spy agency.

Speaking at the Ditchley Foundation in the UK, Burns called Putin's invasion of Ukraine "the most immediate and acute geopolitical challenge to international order today."

The address came one week after the head of Wagner mercenary group Yevgeny Prigozhin led his forces in a brief mutiny against Russia's military command.

In doing so, he accused Russia of targeting his forces with deadly missile strikes in Ukraine and launched broadsides against Moscow's narrative of the conflict: saying it was started "for the self-promotion of a bunch of bastards" and that Russia's troops were retreating in Ukraine's east and south.

"The impact of those words and those actions will play out for some time, a vivid reminder of the corrosive effect of Putin's war on his own society and his own regime," Burns said.

He called the war a "strategic failure" for Moscow that has exposed military weaknesses, hurt the economy and spurred a bigger and stronger NATO.

"Disaffection with the war will continue to gnaw away at the Russian leadership ... That disaffection creates a once-in-a-generation opportunity for us at CIA," he said.

"We're not letting it go to waste," he added, noting the CIA recently posted on Telegram to let Russians know how to reach the CIA via the dark web.

"We had 2.5 million views in the first week, and we're very much open for business."

Burns did not mention a recent trip to Ukraine where he met with intelligence counterparts and President Volodymyr Zelensky. The visit took place before Prigozhin's insurrection.

In his speech the spy chief also focused on China, which he called "the only country with both the intent to reshape the international order and, increasingly, the economic, diplomatic, military and technological power to do so."

Burns warned of Chinese President Xi Jinping's "growing repression at home and his aggressiveness abroad" and said the CIA has established a mission center focused exclusively on the Asian power and more than doubled the percentage of overall budget on China activities.

acb/tjj
The spokesman for Ukraines Air Force has reported that Ukraines air defence forces downed eight Russian drones and three Kalibr cruise missiles on the night of 12 July.

Source: Yurii Ihnat, spokesman for Ukraines Air Force, in Suspilne; Ukraines Air Force on Telegram

Details: Ihnat said that early reports indicate that Ukraines air defence forces downed eight drones and three Kalibr missiles overnight.

Updated: Ukraines Air Force shared a report which clarified that the eight drones that had been shot down were Shahed attack drones.

The Air Force also explained that Russia had launched Kalibr missiles from the waters of the Black Sea.

Previously: Russian forces launched Shahed drones on Kyiv Oblast on the night of 12 July, but Ukraines air defence shot them down.

A Russian attack on Kyiv Oblast on early 2 July damaged several houses and injured a man.

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Ukraine's Air Force warns citizens of Russian UAVs in Kyiv and other oblasts

The Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reported the threat of Russian drones in the capital, as well as in Kyiv and Zhytomyr oblasts.

Source: Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine on Telegram

Quote: "Kyiv Oblast (except Kyiv)  the threat of the enemy's use of attack UAVs from the south! Go to the shelter immediately!"

Earlier, an air-raid alarm was announced in a number of regions of Ukraine.

Updated: The Air Force reported the threat of the Russians using attack UAVs in Kyiv and Zhytomyr oblasts.

At 03:01, the alarm was announced in Zhytomyr Oblast.

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Defense structures of the occupiers near Armyansk, satellite photo of June 5, 2023

Russia has built a serious defense line in the north of the occupied Crimean peninsula, Radio Liberty journalist Ihor Tokar told Radio NV on June 29.

These are the same ones that are already known  dragon's teeth, trenches, dugouts, various  let's say  fortifications that contribute to the defense," Tokar said.

"They are not for attacks. So, in the northern part of Crimea, actually along this line  who knows, (there's) a road from Krasnoperekopsk to Dzhankoy, this is the E97 highway  along this line that mirrors the isthmus, there is a pretty seriously built up defense line.

According to the journalist, the Russians trenches in the north of Crimea are sometimes up to 10 km long, branched and designed not only for infantry but also for armored vehicles.

"Let's just say they are not built to show off, to pull the wool over our eyes... They are actually built to hold the line," he said.

Read also: Russian invaders start panicking after strike on bridge to Crimea, says official

Tokar stated that it can be inferred from Russia's actions that its occupying forces genuinely fear that the Ukrainian Armed Forces will soon be able to form a land bridge to the Crimean Isthmus and advance into Crimea.

On June 17, journalists of Radio Liberty projects Skhemy and Krym.Realii, having analyzed new satellite imagery, reported that, fearing an offensive by the Ukrainian Armed Forces, the Russians have constructed numerous defense lines in occupied Crimea from the administrative border with Ukraine to the city of Dzhankoy.

Most of the trenches, according to the images, were dug by the Russian army after its retreat from Kherson on Nov. 11, 2022.

Satellite imagery of the northern part of Crimea shows that the Russian military often builds fortifications close to villages or even in populated areas.

On June 27, Skhemy reported that a private Planet Labs satellite recorded a new Russian military base in the village of Shyroke, near Simferopol. This base has a barracks, as well as hundreds of trucks, off-road vehicles, and tankers transporting fuel.

Former U.S. Army Europe commander Gen. Ben Hodges said that Ukraine has a chance to liberate Crimea by the end of the summer, but it needs military support from the West  including the supply of long-range ATACMS missile systems.

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Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine
The head of the Chief Intelligence Directorate, Kyrylo Budanov, ordered that after the liberation of Zmiinyi (Snake) Island, the state flag should be installed on it in the direction of Crimea.

Source: Defence Intelligence of the Ministry of Defence of Ukraine citing the commander of a special unit of the Main Intelligence Directorate of the Ministry of Defence of Ukraine with the alias Tymur.

Details: Tymur, who took part in the liberation of Zmiinyi, spoke about the unknown episodes of the de-occupation of the island.

The day of the decisive operation on Zmiinyi was divided into several stages, he says.

Quote from Tymur: "At the first stage, there was artillery training, at the second, aviation was involved. The task was to install the national flag of Ukraine on a helipad. We installed it. Then there was the third stage  preliminary reconnaissance of the coastal zone and mine clearance...

We asked for one of the flags in Odesa, it was very large. And so the commander [Budanov, head of the Ukrainian Chief Intelligence Directorate  ed.] told us to place the largest on the edge of the island that faces Crimea."

More details: Tymur added that after that, the group of Ukrainian special forces moved to the final stage of the special operation. Then the fighters took the island under full control, "the Russian tricolour was lowered, and the Ukrainian flag was raised on the official flagpole".

The secret service officer also said that a cat was rescued from the island. Budanov said to take it with them, and now it is "in safe hands".

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Defense forces of Ukraine are advancing in the direction of Bakhmut

Ukrainian forces have gained ground near Bakhmut, putting pressure on the Russian flanks in that area, Serhiy Cherevatyi, spokesperson for the Eastern Group of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, said on national television on July 2.

"We have advanced on the Bakhmut axis," he said.

Read also: Ukrainian snipers showcased eliminating Russian invaders near Bakhmut  stunning video

"There is combat work on the flanks, pressure on the enemy. After a detailed analysis and verification, we will provide detailed data on the territory that has been liberated.

Cherevatyi said that 23 combat engagements took place in the Bakhmut area over the past day. The Ukrainian Armed Forces managed to eliminate116 Russian troops and wounded almost the same number.

According to him, Russian troops tried to storm the Ukrainian army's positions in the Lyman-Kupyansk sector of the front 10 times.

"On the Lyman-Kupyansk axis, in particular in the area of Nevske and Dibrova, they are using more or less conventional tactics, i.e. conducting reconnaissance and artillery strikes, there are no more Wagneresque 'fodder assaults,'" Cherevatyi said.

Read also: Ukrainian photographers show fresh footage of Bakhmut  video

"They are trying to attack our positions in groups of up to a platoon."

At the end of June, Ukraines Defense Ministry reported that the Armed Forces were continuing their offensive on the Bakhmut, Melitopol and Berdyansk axes, advancing 1,300 meters toward Berdyansk.

Deputy Defense Minister Hanna Malyar explained that Ukraine's troops had not yet entered Bakhmut due to the peculiarities of that sector, which complicates its liberation  a large number of engineering fortifications and strongholds occupied by the adversary.

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Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine
Ukrainian units advance despite heavy battles on Berdiansk and Melitopol fronts  Deputy Minister of Defence

The Ukrainian units are gradually advancing on the Berdiansk and Melitopol fronts, while in the east the Russians are on the offensive on several fronts.

Source: Hanna Maliar, Deputy Minister of Defence, on Telegram

Quote: "Albeit with heavy battles, we are gradually advancing on the Berdiansk and Melitopol fronts.

Our troops face intense enemy resistance, remote mining, transfer of reserves, but persistently and tirelessly create conditions for the speedy movement forward."

Details: At the same time, Maliar said that the Russians are advancing on several fronts  Avdiivka, Marinka, Lyman.

"Its hot everywhere now," she said.

Also, the Russians moved forward on the Svatove front.

"There are fierce battles. The enemy attacks Bilohorivka, Serebrianka. The situation is quite complicated," said Maliar.

On the southern flank of the Bakhmut front, the Ukrainian forces are moving forward with partial success, and on the north the battles continue. The Russians transferred two air assault regiments there.

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The demand for Ukrainian combat-tested military equipment may increase globally. What are the most promising projects for export after the war?

Ukraine has often been compared to Israel, since both countries have been at war for many years. When it comes to Israeli weapons, everyone understands that they are made to fight opposing forces, not for parades or tank biathlons. Ukrainian military technology, hardened over the years in the war against the Russians, may now enjoy the same reputation.

Ukrainian private and state-owned companies have a unique opportunity to test their equipment in real-world combat and are using this experience to modernise it further. This is something that even leading Western manufacturers lack.

The Ukrainian Ministry of Defence (MoD) purchased mostly tried-and-tested Western weapons that were in stock during the first year of the Russian invasion. However, the protracted war with Russia and the depletion of Western stockpiles forced Ukraine to invest in its own military-industrial complex, which has since withstood hundreds of missile attacks.

Oleksii Reznikov, Ukraines Defence Minister, calls himself a "Ukraine-protectionist" and suggests that Ukrainian industries will receive more orders to supply the [Ukrainian] army.

Indeed, Ukrainian technology had export potential even before 24 February 2022. The manufacturers are now significantly increasing their capacity, collecting information from the frontline, and improving technologies to not only step up the country's defence but also conquer global markets after the war. How exactly?

Kozak armoured personnel carriers (APC)

"We use Kozak-5 vehicles to carry troops and ammunition. Occasionally, we use them for fire support using a large-calibre machine gun. Everyone who goes to the front goes by Kozak because our company had no other armoured vehicles.

Two Kozak armoured personnel carriers were hit by mines, and all the people inside survived. The armour is strong, withstanding small arms fire and shrapnel. I was in a Kozak that was hit by a 120mm mine. The wheel was shattered, but the vehicle was able to make it out," one of the soldiers describes his experience of operating an armoured vehicle.

Kozak-2 armoured personnel carrier

The private research and production company known as Practika manufactures the Kozak family of vehicles. They have been produced on a massive scale since 2015, a year after the start of the war with Russia. The number of Kozaks of all modifications currently in production amounts to hundreds.

SRM-1 Kozak, Kozak-2014, Kozak-001, Kozak-2, Kozak-2M.1, Kozak-2M.2, Kozak-4, Kozak-5 IMVs

SOURCE: FRAZA.COM

Kozak-2 is a mine-resistant ambush-protected (MRAP) type vehicle. These are armoured APCs with enhanced protection against mines and ambushes. MRAPs are distinguished from conventional armoured personnel carriers by better manoeuvrability and lighter armour. This vehicle is designed for logistics and reconnaissance. The Kozak-5 was introduced in 2017, lighter and more manoeuvrable than the previous vehicle.

Kozak-5

Kozaks set out to conquer the global market in 2019 and attracted interest from various countries. Saudi Arabia bought 60 vehicles. Negotiations began with Indonesia on producing the Kozak-2M model in that country. The pandemic and the war disrupted the project. Praktica also signed a contract with Nigeria for 15 Kozak-5s. The vehicles were built but were then handed over to the Armed Forces of Ukraine (AFU) after 24 February 2022. The customer received a refund of the prepayment.

The company will likely succeed in the global market after the war. Demand for such vehicles is growing, and there will be even more customers willing to buy Kozaks due to their participation in battles.

Kozak-2 in disguise

"The war with Russia has taught us to focus on mine protection, and we have hardened the design for this purpose. We also realised that the biggest danger to vehicles is not bullets, but shrapnel from artillery shells, so we paid more attention to this danger," one of Praktica's technical experts told Ekonomichna Pravda (EP).

Meanwhile, the company will produce vehicles exclusively for Ukraine and in much larger quantities than before. Kozaks has been involved in several major operations. One of these was an offensive in Kharkiv Oblast. The AFU used a "mosquito tactic", where the Russian forces were attacked by multiple mobile groups using armoured vehicles.

These vehicles have been saving the lives of Ukrainian soldiers. There are many photos and videos of Kozaks with a smashed front end but an undamaged crew section.

Kozak-2 after being hit

Kozak may be equipped with combat modules in the future. These are automatic fire turrets on the vehicles, which are controlled from inside. The Kozak-2 has been fitted with such devices, particularly from the Turkiye company Aselsan. However, such modifications are not yet popular with the military.

Bohdana self-propelled howitzer

This is the first Ukrainian-made self-propelled howitzer (SPH). The vehicle has a NATO-standard calibre of 155 mm. Its armament is manufactured by the Kramatorsk Heavy Machine Tool Plant, a private company, while the Ukrainian Armour company produces the chassis and armour. This vehicle was first introduced in 2018.

Ukrainian Bohdana SPH firing on Zmiinyi (Snake) Island

Photo by Serhii Pashynskyi

Testing by the state was not going well. Apart from technical issues that arose during the development, the manufacturer had disputes with the Ukrainian MoD. Therefore, preliminary field tests were completed only in January 2022.

The Bohdana SPH was supposed to be destroyed at the beginning of the Russian invasion to prevent it from falling into Russian hands; however, it was successfully evacuated from Kramatorsk. In the spring of 2022, the Ministry of Defence placed an order, and the SPH with the new chassis went into mass production.

The only such vehicle at the time set out to wipe out the Russian army. It took part in the Battle of Zmiinyi Island in April 2022.

In February 2023, Reznikov announced that the AFU would soon receive the first batch. The use of the SPH is being kept secret, and photos from the battlefield are rarely published.

The Bohdana crew perfected their skills in the battles near Kryvyi Rih

The perfected Bohdana may have export potential after the war. In addition to its experience in warfare, its simplicity and relatively low cost may become a competitive advantage. In large-scale wars, the quantity of equipment is no less critical than its rich functionalities, so the affordable and reliable Bohdana should be able to find its niche.

Bohdana in the AFU

PHOTO BY MIL.GOV.UA

"There are many competitors on the global market, but they are expensive and have a long delivery time. The tenders we have participated in indicate that, depending on the configuration and version, the Bohdana costs 30-50% less than the French Caesar howitzers," explained Vladyslav Belbas, CEO of Ukrainian Armour, which exported the howitzers.

He said Morocco, Malaysia, Saudi Arabia, and Egypt were interested in the Ukrainian SPH before the Russian invasion. Should there be sufficient orders for the Bohdana from the Ukrainian MoD, its manufacturers will work only for the AFU. Expanding production is complex and requires a lot of time and investment.

Leleka, Shark and Ukrjet UAVs

Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) are in great demand, and this is one of the primary needs of the AFU right now. Home-made drones can be produced by engineering students from components purchased on the radio market, but few companies are able to offer a durable product with a decent camera, software and resistance to electronic warfare systems.

Many private companies have been producing UAVs in Ukraine since 2014: Ukrspecsystems, DeViro, Ukrjet, and Athlon Avia. They have entirely displaced the state-owned defence industry conglomerate Ukroboronprom from the market, and supply hundreds of drones to the Ukrainian forces and the National Guard.

Ukrspecsystems production facility

Ukrainian drones were sold abroad before the Russian invasion. Orders were small because the models had not yet proven themselves. Nevertheless, one of the companies used its export revenues to finance the design of new aircraft.

The UAE bought the Ukrainian Leleka and Furiia systems from DeViro and Athlon Avia. There were also contracts for PD-2 flagship aircraft from Ukrspecsystems. Even a Western customer was interested in the latter systems: a delegation from a major EU countries came to Ukraine to test them.

The companies are currently working only for the needs of Ukrainian defence, expanding their staff and production capacity. Ukrspecsystems introduced a new Shark reconnaissance drone in the spring of 2022. The number of these aircraft is now in the hundreds.

PHOTO BY UKRSPECSYSTEMS

"The equipment performs the requisite tasks. The Leleka is more suitable as a scout, since it has a 360-degree camera. The Shark is good at fire guidance, as it has a 120x zoom and good stabilisation. The striking advantage of these systems is their low cost compared to Western models. However, both models have bugs in the software," explained a UAV operator from one of the Ukrainian armys brigades.

Feedback from the military enables companies to fix errors.

"One of the factors that helps to avoid aircraft losses is the skills of the operators. We have significantly increased our experience in pilot training during the war. This is our competitive advantage in the market," a representative of one of the manufacturers told EP.

Leleka-100 UAV

Photo by Come Back Alive Foundation

Russia has advanced electronic warfare technologies. There has never been a war in history with such massive use of electronic warfare systems. This is toughening Ukrainian manufacturers and forcing them to modernise their communications. Eventually, the territory of Russia is a large training ground for Ukrainian drones. For example, the wreckage of a UAV similar to Ukrjet's UJ-22 was found near Moscow. This device can fly up to 800 km.

Ukrjet near Moscow

Novator Armoured Personnel Carrier

The Ukrainian Armour company manufactures Varta and Novator armoured vehicles. Production of the former has been suspended because it was mounted on a Belarusian chassis. The Novator continues to roll off the assembly line and successfully operates at the frontline.

"We use the Novator to transport teams of specialists and reconnaissance, i.e., drone operators, anti-tank missile systems, and gunfire spotters. The vehicles are not bad, even with some technical issues," one of the commanders remarked.

Novator specialised IMV

PHOTO BY UKRARMOR

Novator was first purchased for the AFU in 2018. The manufacturer started promoting them for export in 2021. Agreements were signed to supply dozens of vehicles to four African countries, but the war disrupted the contracts. "We gave all the export vehicles to the territorial defence forces at 07:00 on the invasion day. Some of them were coming back to us damaged by the end of the day," said Belbas.

Most of 2022 was an uncertain year for the Ukrainian Armour company. Towards the end of the year, the company received long-term orders, set up production and tripled its armoured vehicle output compared to previous years. The company has moved to different cities, and its staff has grown by 60%.

Like other weapons, the Novator has been tested in combat. "We communicate with the military and upgrade the vehicles to use different types of weapons. We are making it a universal platform. We can integrate short-range anti-aircraft missile systems, anti-tank weapons, radars, and anti-drone systems," according to Belbas.

Novator with a Ukrainian Shark drone

A photo was published in October showing Novator successfully saving soldiers lives. The vehicle ran over an anti-tank mine with 8 kg of TNT, but the crews compartment withstood the explosion.

PHOTO BY UKRARMOR.COM

Stugna-P anti-tank guided missile

The Stugna-P anti-tank guided missile (ATGM), produced by one of Ukroboronprom's companies, has become the most widely known Ukrainian weapon. The Stugna control panel can be located 50 metres away from the system, allowing the operator to hunt tanks from cover.

There are many cases of these systems being in use. The Ukrainian National Guard's Omeha unit posted a video of a Stugna destroying a Russian tank and two infantry fighting vehicles in a single battle. Two cases are known where the system operator shoots down a Russian Ka-52 helicopter.

Novator armoured vehicle with Stugna mounted on it

PHOTO BY TYZHDEN.UA

"The Stugna works very well. Another unit and I managed to hit two targets almost simultaneously. Compared to second-generation Western ATGMs, the Stugna is a frontrunner. One of its advantages is its great range. Cold and tired hands do not affect the ability to take a shot. The disadvantages are the heavy weight of the systems and missiles, as well as the lack of thermal imagers on most systems," an ATGM operator told EP.

Stugna in winter

PHOTO BY WIKIMEDIA.ORG

Ten countries have Ukrainian systems in service. The demand for them will only increase after the war. However, the Skif export version of Stugna was produced with a Belarusian Peleng sight, so a replacement has to be found.

The ATGM manufacturer also produces the Neptune systems that hit the Russian cruiser Moskva.

However, missile development is currently classified as "secret".

BTR-4

You could see a modern Ukrainian BTR-4 Bucephalus armoured personnel carrier (APC) crushing Russian forces during the encirclement of Mariupol. At that time, the Azov Regiment shot many videos from this vehicle, which looked like a computer game.

Hal of the Bucephalus was made up of Russian components until 2014, but Ukroboronprom states that they have since been replaced. In 2016, the BTR-4 contained 85% Ukrainian and 15% foreign parts.

The vehicle was widely offered for export before the Russian invasion. Customers were ready to buy hundreds of them, but there were problems with fulfilling foreign contracts. The Iraqi Defence Ministry, which wanted to acquire 420 units, refused to accept even a quarter of this number. Ukroboronprom supplied faulty vehicles, and they were sent back for repairs. Kazakhstan also referred a BTR-4 back to Ukraine for modification during the testing phase.

BTR-4

SOURCE: WIKIPEDIA

One of the issues with APCs for Iraq was cracks in the hull. When the country refused to accept them, the defective vehicles were sold to the Ukrainian National Guard. Having been hit by a series of scandals, Ukroboronprom conducted public tests where the armour of the vehicles withstood a hit. Analysts of the Defence Express questioned the validity of such tests, as they could have been subject to a large degree of randomness.

Be that as it may, the vehicle is considered to be technically sound. Should the company manage to overcome the problems of the past, the BTR-4 could attract the attention of foreign customers.

Oplot main battle tank

The Oplot main battle tanks (MBTs) could have become the pride of the Ukrainian defence industry if there were more than just a few in service with the AFU. Contrary to Russia's T-14 Armata, these tanks are not mythical but real. A total of 49 units were delivered to Thailand in 2018. There were no problems during the implementation of the deal, except for the fact that it was delayed.

Why does Thailand have ten times more Ukrainian tanks in service than Ukraine? The Ukrainian MoD has not had the funds to buy them for many years and has relied on cheaper, modified T-64s. It was only recently that Reznikov announced that the AFU would order Oplots, which are now reportedly completely free of Russian components.

T-84 Oplot

SOURCE: WIKIPEDIA

The EP editors could not confirm the information regarding the agreements between the company and the Ministry of Defence. The parties will likely move on to specifics after the leadership change at Ukroboronprom. Herman Smetanin, who made his career at tank factories, became the new director of the concern on 28 June.



Whether it makes strategic sense for Ukraine to purchase such tanks is a question for the Defence Ministry. At the very least, the technology may have export potential. Pakistan and Egypt were once interested in Oplots. The MBT competed with the Chinese VT-4 in tenders in the former and with the Russian T-90 in the latter.

However, selling a tank is much more challenging than selling an armoured vehicle or a drone. The point is to offer the country a product for decades to come. Whether it will be possible to find at least one foreign buyer for the Ukrainian Oplot will depend on the effectiveness of Ukroboronprom's managers.

* * *

The Ukrainian military and defence industry has endured many blows over the past year. Some facilities have been seized or destroyed. Nevertheless, Ukraine has begun to produce more weapons, and their quality is backed up by experience in real-world combat.

The government's support for security and an increase in orders will help the country not only defend itself more effectively after the war but also to trade on the global arms market, which is growing due to increased geopolitical tensions.

Certainly, Ukrainian weapons are inferior in quality to Western models, but they are relatively affordable and are constantly being improved, so they stand a good chance of finding their own niche.

By Bohdan Miroshnychenko



Translation: Artem Yakymyshyn

Editing: Monica Sandor
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres speaks to the media during his quick visit to Port-au-Prince on July 1, 2023 (Richard PIERRIN)

On a visit to spotlight violence and chaos in Haiti, the UN secretary-general on Saturday called for a robust international effort to help the country's beleaguered police in fighting rampant criminal gangs.

For months, Antonio Guterres has raised the alarm bell about the situation in the Western Hemisphere's poorest country, which has been wracked by spiralling violence, a worsening public health situation and political instability.

But he traveled to Port-au-Prince -- his first visit to Haiti as head of the United Nations -- to make his point on the ground.

"We must put Haiti on the international political map, and make the tragedy of the Haitian people the international community's top priority," Guterres told a press conference.

"I met Haitians, and I felt the exhaustion of a population that has been facing a cascade of crises and unbearable living conditions for too long," he said.

"This is not the time to forget about Haiti," Guterres said after meeting with Prime Minister Ariel Henry, and other political and civil society leaders.

Guterres urged the UN Security Council, which is due to discuss the Haiti situation later this month, "to authorize the immediate deployment of a robust international security force."

In October, he relayed Henry's request for a non-UN force to support the overwhelmed national police force.

But the call has gone unheeded. A few countries have indicated their willingness to participate, but none has volunteered to lead an operation in a country where multiple past foreign interventions have become mired.

"I call on those states that have the capacity to provide a robust security force to stop hesitating and be ready to follow a Security Council decision," Guterres said.

"Every day counts. If we don't act now, instability and violence will have a lasting impact on generations of Haitians."

- 'Widespread sexual violence' -

UN officials in recent months have offered increasingly grim assessments of the impact of gang shootings, kidnappings and rapes on the Haitian population.

"Port-au-Prince is surrounded by armed gangs blocking the main roads leading to the northern and southern departments, controlling access to water, food and health care," Guterres said Saturday.

He condemned "in the strongest possible terms the widespread sexual violence used by armed gangs as a weapon to instill fear."

Earlier in the week, UNICEF executive director Catherine Russell said after a trip to Port-au-Prince that the world was "failing the Haitian people."

She recounted the horrific story of an 11-year-old girl who was kidnapped by five men -- and raped by three of them.

"She was eight months pregnant when we spoke and gave birth just a few days later," Russell said, recalling that armed gangs control more than 60 percent of the capital and large swathes of the countryside.

Almost half the population, or 5.2 million people, are in need of humanitarian assistance, including almost three million children.

No elections have been held since 2016, and Henry, appointed prime minister just days before the assassination of president Jovenel Moise in July 2021, faces questions about his legitimacy.

Guterres said he had "frank exchanges" with Henry and others about the "need for a political agreement to put an end to the crisis," without offering specifics.

He called on civic leaders to "overcome their personal interests and make concessions in order to facilitate the emergence of a common vision and a viable and credible electoral path."

After Haiti, Guterres travels to Trinidad and Tobago for a Caribbean Community (Caricom) summit, where issues surrounding Haiti will be discussed.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken also will attend the summit.

abd/sst/tjj
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres speaks during a press conference at the diplomatic lounge in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, Saturday, July 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Odelyn Joseph)

PORT-AU-PRINCE, Haiti (AP)  U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres visited Haiti on Saturday and again called on foreign governments with strong security forces to help the struggling country fight a surge in gang violence.

The appeal was made after Guterres met with Prime Minister Ariel Henry, civil society leaders, U.N. staff and the heads of various political parties during his one-day trip.

Now is not the time to forget Haiti or weaken our solidarity with its people, he said.

Guterres met with reporters at Haitis international airport in Port-au-Prince, who pressed him on whether an international security force would be deployed as requested by the prime minister last October.

Guterres said he spoke about the issue with Henry, as well as the need to hold credible elections.

I am not here to tell Haitians what to do. I am here to listen to them and to encourage them to build consensus as broadly as possible to move the transition process forward, he said.

Henry, who has been running the country since the July 2021 assassination of President Jovenel Moise, has been under pressure to hold elections. But experts have noted it is impossible to do so given the current level of violence in the country, with gangs controlling an estimated 80% of the capital.

There are no democratically elected institutions left in Haiti, with the country failing to hold legislative elections since October 2019.

Haiti must return to democratic order as soon as possible, Guterres said.

He also said Haiti urgently needs more humanitarian aid as poverty deepens and starvation cases spike. Gangs are preventing the movement of goods and people and controlling access to water, food and health care as civilians attempt to fight back via a violent uprising.

I felt all the exhaustion of a population that has been facing for too long a cascade of crises and unsustainable living conditions, Guterres said. One in two people in Haiti live in extreme poverty, face hunger and lack regular access to drinking water.

Guterres visit came just days after the U.N.s human rights expert in Haiti visited the country and also called for an international security force and a weapons embargo.

Guterres is scheduled to attend a summit Sunday in Trinidad and Tobago held by Caricom, a Caribbean trade bloc.

___

Associated Press writer Danica Coto in San Juan, Puerto Rico, contributed to this report.
'Unabashed': Justice Jackson marks her first year on the Supreme Court unafraid to stake her own position

WASHINGTON  When the Supreme Court ruled in June against labor unions, allowing an employer to pursue a damages claim for losses caused by a strike, there was just one dissenting voice: Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson's.

"Today, the court falters," Jackson wrote, adding that the decision risks erosion of the right to strike.

Her lone dissenting vote was a notable moment in a high-stakes first term for the first Black woman to serve on the court.

Although Jackson, 52, is clearly a solid part of the liberal minority on the 6-3 conservative-majority court, her opinion in Glacier Northwest v. International Brotherhood of Teamsters illustrated how she was forthright and eager to have her voice heard, even when she was out on her own.

Members of the Supreme Court in Washington, D.C. (Jabin Botsford / The Washington Post via Getty Images file)

Her solo opinion marked the first time a new justice has made such a bold move in a first term on the court since conservative Justice Clarence Thomas did so in 1991, according to Supreme Court stats guru Adam Feldman. (Conservative Justice Neil Gorsuch, who joined the court midway through the 2016-2017 term, wrote a solo dissent in the following term after he'd joined.)

"Her unabashed willingness to articulate a perspective that is contrary to that held by the majority of justices has made her the most formidable dissenting voice on the court," said Sherrilyn Ifill, a prominent civil rights lawyer.

At the end of the nine-month court term that ended Friday, the focus was on the major cases on affirmative action, student loan debt forgiveness and LGBTQ rights in which the court was divided on ideological lines with Jackson and her two liberal colleagues in dissent.

Jackson's clash with Thomas, the only other Black justice on the court, on their seemingly unresolvable differences on race and the Constitution generated headlines as they exchanged barbs in separate opinions in the ruling that effectively ended the broad consideration of race in college admissions.

Appointed by President Joe Biden to replace fellow liberal Justice Stephen Breyer, who retired in the summer of 2022, Jackson reflected the administration's commitment to diversifying the court in terms of race, gender and professional background.

'Enlightenment'

Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson during a celebration of her Supreme Court confirmation at the White House (Nathan Posner / Anadolu Agency via Getty Images file)

Before she was appointed as a district court judge in Washington by former President Barack Obama, Jackson had served as a public defender. Biden appointed her to a federal appeals court in 2021 before elevating her to the Supreme Court the following year.

Jackson made her presence felt on her first day in the Supreme Court's ornate courtroom in October, asking a series of polite but insistent questions, setting a trend that would continue throughout the term.

"Let me try to bring some enlightenment to it," she said on that first day, when the court was hearing a knotty case about federal authority to regulate wetlands under the Clean Water Act.

She ended up speaking more at oral arguments during the course of the term than any other justice, according to Feldman. Based on the number of words spoken, she beat the next most talkative justice, fellow liberal Sonia Sotomayor, by an average of 600 words per argument, he found.

Sometimes new justices are more likely to keep their own counsel when first joining the court, although a new oral argument format introduced during the pandemic  with each justice given a chance to weigh in replacing the previous free-for-all format  is likely part of the explanation.

For some court watchers, what's more important is what Jackson talks about than how many words she uses to say it.

When the court in October heard oral arguments over a conservative attempt to weaken further the landmark Voting Rights Act, Jackson was quick to counter the notion that the Constitution's 14th Amendment was "colorblind," noting that it was aimed at redressing historical harms to Black people following the Civil war and the end of slavery.

"I don't think the historical record establishes that the founders believed that race neutrality or race blindness was required, right?" she said.

Supreme Court Holds Investiture Ceremony For Associate Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson (Anna Moneymaker / Getty Images file)

The court ended up affirming its previous approach to addressing racial discrimination claims in redistricting cases, with Jackson revisiting the theme less successfully when the conservative majority struck down affirmative action in college admissions.

On certain issues, Jackson has fostered a cross-ideological alliance with Gorsuch. Although Gorsuch is often in lockstep with his conservative colleagues on contentious issues, his idiosyncratic libertarian views sometimes align him with his liberal colleagues.

One example occurred in May when the court ruled unanimously in favor of a 94-year-old woman over her claim that a Minnesota county had violated the Constitution by keeping a $25,000 profit when it sold her home in a tax foreclosure sale.

The court ruled that the woman, Geraldine Tyler, could pursue her claim that the county's actions violated the takings clause of the Constitution's Fifth Amendment, which requires that the government pay compensation when a property is seized.

The court had no need to address a second legal question raised in the case: whether the county had also violated the excessive fines clause of the Eighth Amendment. Gorsuch wrote separately to suggest that Tyler's claim on that point could be valid too. Jackson was the only other justice to join his opinion.

Jackson's occasional alliances with Gorsuch also show how she and her fellow liberals on the court, Sotomayor and Justice Elena Kagan, don't act as a single bloc.

When the court on May 11 rejected a challenge to an animal welfare law that bans pork products derived from pigs housed in confined spaces, the vote was 5-4, with the justices split on nonideological lines. Jackson dissented, along with three conservatives, while Sotomayor and Kagan were in the majority.

As is normal with new justices, Jackson's five majority opinions for the court have been in uncontroversial cases, such as her first, in February, in a dispute between Delaware and other states over unclaimed MoneyGram checks.

Although she has generated the most attention for her dissenting opinions, Jackson was actually in the majority in 84% of cases over the course of the term, more than any of the other liberal justices. It is also a higher rate than conservatives Thomas, Gorsuch and Justice Samuel Alito.

"It shows that she was able to make cross connections with liberal and conservative justices in a substantial portion of the cases the court heard," Feldman said.

This article was originally published on NBCNews.com
Some US cities are allowing corporations to vote in local elections in hopes of stimulating the economy

Seaford, Delaware updated its charter in April to give businesses a vote in local elections. iStock/Getty Images

Seaford, Delaware is seeking to give business entities the right to vote in local elections.

It's not the first town in Delaware, an already business-friendly state, to enact this policy.

Some activists oppose the law, saying it "puts the idea that corporations are people on steroids."

Just 340 people voted in Seaford, Delaware's latest election, according to CBS. For a small town of about 8,500 people, that's a voter turnout of only 4%.

A new bill now being considered in the small town, however, could help increase those numbers.

Seaford's town leaders want to give corporations based there the right to vote.

In April, Seaford Mayor David Grenshaw cast the tie-breaking city council vote to amend the city's charter, giving business entities  ranging from small businesses to large corporations  the right to vote in local elections. The bill must still pass through the state's legislature. On June 30, it passed the House and will appear before the Senate in the next legislative session, CNN reported.

Grenshaw said he hoped that giving businesses the right to vote would revitalize the Seaford community after the closure of a local factory led to years of economic gloom, according to CNN.

"These are the people we're trying to attract to our community, that we're asking to invest, to hire," Grenshaw told WRDE, a local news station. "Why wouldn't we want to give them a right to vote? I find it hard to believe, who wouldn't want that to happen?"

Despite Grenshaw's confidence, residents and voting rights activists worried about corporate influence in politics are skeptical.

Claire Snyder-Hall, executive director of Common Cause Delaware, a voting rights watchdog group, told CNN the law "puts the idea that corporations are people on steroids."

Under the 14th Amendment, corporations are considered people, and throughout US history courts have continued to grant them constitutional protections. In the 2010 Citizens United case, the Supreme Court ruled that corporations can spend unlimited funds on campaigns  as long as they are not formally coordinating with the campaign itself. The ruling led to the creation of super PACs that have the ability to receive unlimited funds and independently campaign for candidates, which has raised concerns about the potentially outsized impact of wealthy donors on election outcomes.

Seaford isn't the first municipality in Delaware to pass this kind of law. Delaware is already one of the most business-friendly states in the country. It has no sales tax, no tax on intellectual property, and no corporate income tax. Corporations all over the country register and keep addresses in Delaware for these reasons. The state, which has a population of just over 1 million, will likely soon be home to more than 2 million registered businesses.

In places outside of Seaford, where similar laws have been approved, it hasn't always gone smoothly. In Newark, Delaware, one property manager in charge of several LLCs voted 31 times in a single election, according to CBS, forcing the town to revise the law.

Read the original article on Business Insider
Some US cities are replacing 4th of July fireworks with environmentally friendly drones

Fire threats and environmental concerns have prompted some US cities to forego traditional Fourth of July fireworks in favor of spectacular drone light shows this year.

Salt Lake City, Utah, tried out the alternative way of celebrating Independence Day on Saturday with its first-ever drone show.

The citys mayor, Erin Mendenhall, said in a news release the new format marked an effort to minimize the areas high fire danger and to lessen air quality problems caused by pyrotechnics.

As temperatures rise and fire danger increases, we must be conscientious of both our air quality and the potential for wildfires, Mendenhall said in the release.

Utah has an average of 800 to 1,000 wildfires each year, and the state is among the most wildfire-prone in the US, according to the Utah Department of Public Safety.

In neighboring Colorado, also in its wildfire season, the City of Boulder made a similar decision this year with its first-ever nighttime drone show next week.

Prior to the Covid-19 pandemic, the city had previously celebrated its Ralphies Independence Day Blast since 1941, according to a social media post.

The shift from traditional fireworks to drones was not an easy decision and based on a number of factors, including increased fire danger fueled by climate change, the citys government stated via Facebook.

A fleet of drones from Drone Studios will illuminate parts of Southern California for July Fourth holiday celebrations. - Jeff Stein/Drone Studios

Dan Kingdom, owner of WK Real Estate in Boulder, said the committee responsible for planning the citys July Fourth celebrations took the drone route this year after considering the environmental impacts and their difficulties tracking down fireworks, he told CNN.

The fact that we had the Marshall Fire here in our community about 18 months ago was one of the things we discussed, said Kingdom, whose company, along with the University of Colorado, partnered with the city on coordinating the event.

Ultimately, the decision became pretty clear for us because the company that weve long gotten purchased the fireworks from had gone out of business during the pandemic, and we were not able to find fireworks for the show, so it made our decision pretty straightforward and pretty easy to go with the drones, Kingdom said.

Farther west in California, other communities like Lake Tahoe, La Jolla and Ocean Beach also opted to host the more environmentally friendly synchronized drone events for their celebrations.

The owner of the drone company handling the La Jolla light show in San Diego County said La Jolla and Ocean Beach are trying a new way of celebrating Independence Day for the first time.

Jeff Stein, who runs California-based Drone Studios, added La Jolla had gone without fireworks for the past five years.

They found drone shows as a solution because theyre quiet, Stein told CNN.

Drones are reusable, and with fireworks, you have smoke, other fallout like debris, the noise stresses out dogs and people with PTSD. Theres a lot of military in San Diego, he said.

The pixels of the drones expected to illuminate the coastal community will simulate fireworks, show off aerial animation and tell stories through motion graphics, according to Stein.

You cant do that with fireworks, he said.

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Here's why Ukraine needs the US Army Tactical Missile System to win the 'deep battle' against Russia

ATACMS Army Tactical Missile System. US Army/Wikipedia Commons/Public Domain

The US is considering providing ATACMS to Ukraine, according to a WSJ report.

Kyiv has long sought ballistic missiles, which could strike targets far beyond the front lines.

Biden has so far resisted sending them but signals from Washington DC.

The US is considering providing their longest-range missiles yet to be sent to Ukraine, the Wall Street Journal reported last week, citing American and European officials.

Kyiv has long been asking the US for the Army Tactical Missile System, or ATACMS, which has a range of about 190 miles and could be used to strike Russian targets far beyond the front lines, including Crimea. But, the Biden administration has so far been reluctant to send long-range missiles.

Earlier this week, Ben Hodges, a former lieutenant general who headed US Army Europe, told Insider that ATACMS missiles  which boast an impressive range of 190 miles  and advanced Gray Eagle drones, "put every headquarters and logistics site at risk" by allowing Ukraine to hammer Russian positions behind its Moscow's extensive defensive lines.

The UK has already sent Ukraine long-range Storm Shadow cruise missiles with a similar range to ATACMS, which are said to be striking Russian targets with nearly pinpoint accuracy and has encouraged allies to do the same.

Last month, Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu accused Ukraine of using the missiles to strike the Chonhar bridge, a key span connecting the Russian-held Kherson to Crimea, The Telegraph reported.

But the Storm Shadow, with a range of 155 miles, still gives the Russians places to hide, said Hodges.

"Because we, the US, have continued to refuse to provide ATACMS, we have, in effect, created a safe haven for the Russians inside Ukraine. Anything that is beyond the current GMLRS, HIMARS, and Storm Shadow is in effect, safe haven," he said.

Why ATACMS could give Ukraine the fighting edge

ATACMS is ready to use by Ukraine's military. Unlike the British Storm Shadow missiles, which are dropped using vulnerable aircraft, ATACMS rockets can be fired from launchers previously supplied to Ukraine, including the US High Mobility Artillery Rocket System launchers or HIMARS.

The range of ATACMS missiles, between 100 and 190 miles, depending on the model, is superior to the existing HIMARS that Ukraine has hailed for the damage they can wreak.

"ATACMS is a long-range guided missile that gives operational commanders the immediate firepower to win the deep battle," says its manufacturer, Lockheed Martin.

Each missile has a 500-pound blast fragmentation warhead, it said.

They could be a vital weapon to disrupt Russia's logistic and transport hubs and destroy supplies to Putin's forces deep in occupied Ukraine, emboldening the ongoing counteroffensive of Zelenskyy's forces. Almost no ammunition depot, logistic center, railway, or concentration of Russian troops would be protected from the ATACMs firepower.

Indeed, annexed Crimea, which has massive importance to President Putin, a peninsula that relies on a single span, the Kerch Bridge, to connect it to Russia, would be in the range of the highly sought-after weapon system..

For example, Hodges said, if these missiles are fired from the southern Ukrainian city of Odesa, they could strike Moscow's warships in the Black Sea naval base at Sevastopol.

ATACMS also has the advantage of being a ballistic rocket missile, with a supersonic speed of Mach 3.5, making it significantly more challenging to intercept.

Most Americans support the US arming Ukraine

Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky meets with US President Joe Biden in the Oval Office of the White House, in Washington, DC on December 21, 2022. Brendan Smialowski/Getty Images

President Joe Biden has so far balked at sending the ATACMS, partly out of concern that Ukraine could use them to strike targets inside Russia and further escalate the conflict.

Another reason for hesitancy from the Biden administration is considering whether the US has enough to spare.

US defense company Lockheed Martin has produced about 4,000 ATACMS over the past two decades, Politico reported, some of which have been sold to allied nations and hundreds of which have been fired by US forces in combat.

The Pentagon said last week that it was unaware of any imminent decision to send ATACMS to Ukraine following the Wall Street Journal report, per Reuters.

However, US and European officials say that behind the scenes, the tone in Washington has recently shifted, and there appears to be a greater appetite to send Ukraine more advanced weapons, per the Journal report.

European officials are hopeful that the US will change its position, as they did with Abrams tanks and HIMARS, per the Journal.

The House Foreign Affairs Committee passed a resolution last week calling for ATACMS to be sent to Ukraine immediately. GOP senator James Risch said last week that he thought the possibility of them being sent was "quite high."

There is also growing support among the US public to provide weaponry to Ukraine to defend itself. A two-day poll concluded last week depicted a sharp rise in backing for arming Ukraine, with 65% of the respondents approving of the shipments compared with 46% in a May poll, Reuters reported

Read the original article on Business Insider
Progressive lawmakers and unions expressed outrage and made calls to action on Friday over the US supreme court ruling striking down Joe Bidens $430bn student debt forgiveness plan.

In a 6-3 decision, the conservative-leaning justices of the court blocked Bidens attempt to forgive a proportion of 40 million Americans student loans.

Joe Biden was expected later on Friday to respond and announce new actions to find other ways to offer relief on student loans.

But while the president mulled his options, the US Senate majority leader, Chuck Schumer, issued a statement calling the courts ruling disappointing and cruel. He also criticized the right-leaning bench by equating them with Donald Trumps Make America Great Again rightwing voting base, by characterizing the ruling as having come from the Maga Republican-controlled supreme court.

Schumer also called out the hypocrisy of the court, ruling Bidens loan forgiveness plan unconstitutional while its leading conservatives, Clarence Thomas and Samuel Alito, are embroiled in ethics scandals over accepting luxury gifts from conservative billionaires without declaring them.

The hypocrisy is clear: as justices accept lavish, six-figure gifts, they dont dare to help Americans saddled with student loan debt, instead siding with the powerful, big-monied interests, added Schumer.

The Massachusetts senator Elizabeth Warren, who has long championed student loan forgiveness, said that the court refuses to follow the plain language of the law on student loan cancellation.

But she warned on Twitter: This fight is not over. The president has more tools to cancel student debt  and he must use them.

New York congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez emphasized that Biden still has the power to pursue student loan forgiveness.

It is very important to note this Scotus [supreme court of the United States] ruling does NOT remove Bidens ability to pursue student loan forgiveness, said Ocasio-Cortez via Twitter.

The Biden Admin can use the HEA (Higher Ed Act)  our position from the start  to continue loan forgiveness before payments resume. They should do so ASAP, she added.

The American Federation of Teachers (AFT) called the ruling a full-frontal attack on young peoples futures.

Between yesterdays affirmative action case and todays decision on student debt, the court has decided that if you or your family has the ability and means, you can succeed, but if youre a struggler or striver, youre on your own, said the AFT president, Randi Weingarten.

The voting rights organizer and former Democratic candidate for Georgia governor, Stacey Abrams, criticized the court for its latest decision as well as the Friday ruling in favor of a Colorado web designer who refuses to provide services for same-sex marriages because of her Christian beliefs, a ruling which critics say also opens the door to businesses discriminating on the basis of race, gender identity, faith or disability.

This week, [Scotus] struck down the ability to ameliorate the currency of racism, legalized discrimination against the LGBTQ community, and blocked access to debt relief for millions. Real people. Real lives. Real consequences, said Abrams in a tweet, while urging people to continue to vote.

Conservative lawmakers, meanwhile, celebrated Fridays ruling, marking another victory for Republicans in the Senate who confirmed the three right-leaning justices nominated under Donald Trump.

The Senate minority leader, Mitch McConnell, called the loan forgiveness plan socialism and a raw deal deal for hardworking taxpayers.

McConnell said: The president of the United States cannot hijack 20-year-old emergency powers to pad the pockets of his high-earning base and make suckers out of working families who choose not to take on student debt. The courts decision today deals a heavy blow to Democrats distorted and outsized view of executive power.
Photograph: Christophe Ena/AP

The US is set to rejoin Unesco this month after a four-year absence from the global cultural and educational body that the country abandoned during the Donald Trump presidency over what his administration called anti-Israeli bias.

The United Nations Education, Scientific and Cultural Organizations reunion with the US came after a two-day special session held at the bodys headquarters in Paris.

Of Unescos 193 member states, 142 participated in Fridays vote. Ten states voted against the US rejoining, including Russia, Belarus, Iran, North Korea and Nicaragua. China, which had become the organisations biggest financial backer in the absence of the US, also voted against readmittance.

Related: China concerns prompt US move to rejoin Unesco

US efforts to rejoin Unesco have been building since last year when the Joe Biden White House said within a $1.7tn spending bill that the administration would seek to rejoin the organisation in order to counter Chinese influence.

I am encouraged and grateful that Unesco members have accepted the US proposal that will allow us to continue steps toward rejoining the organisation, the American secretary of state Antony Blinken said in a statement.

The US ambassador to the UN, Linda Thomas-Greenfield, described the decision as very good news.

If we are not engaged in international institutions, then we leave a void and lose an opportunity to advance American values and interests on the global stage, she added.

Meanwhile, the UNs director for the International Crisis Group, Richard Gowan, told CBS News on Tuesday: The Biden administration has always made it clear that it is suspicious of Chinas rising influence in the UN.

Bidens team believes that Trump ceded a lot of ground to China with its anti-UN attitude. The decision to rejoin Unesco is just the latest example of the US deciding it can do more to counter China by actively engaging in UN institutions than sitting on the sidelines.

As a condition of readmission, the US will repay around $619m in unpaid dues, meet 22% of Unescos annual budget, and make contributions to programs supporting education access initiatives in Africa, Holocaust remembrance and journalists safety.

Beyond stepping up actions for Africa, Unesco said it would be able to increase its efforts toward gender equality, a strategic priority.

With this return, Unesco will be in an even stronger position to carry out its mandate, said Audrey Azoulay, Unescos director general.

Unescos mandate  education, science, culture, freedom of information  is absolutely central to meeting the challenges of the 21st century. It is this centrality, as well as the easing of political tensions within the organisation and the initiatives launched in recent years, that have led the United States to initiate this return.

Last month, the US acknowledged in a letter to Unesco that it noted the organisations efforts to implement key management and administrative reforms, as well as its focus on decreasing politicized debate, especially on Middle East issues.

The organisation in 2011 had voted to admit Palestine, which is not formally recognized by the US or Israel as a UN member state. The Barack Obama White House cut Unesco contributions, sending the US into owing millions in arrears to the organization.

Five years later, in 2016, the Unesco World Heritage Committee adopted a decision ruling that Israeli actions related to archaeology, tourism and freedom of movement in the Old City of Jerusalem contravened cultural heritage laws and practices.

US and Israeli officials complained that not including the full Jewish history in any decision about Jerusalem was equivalent to a denial of Jewish history.

In 2017, a year into the Trump presidency, the US cited mounting arrears at Unesco, the need for fundamental reform in the organisation, and continuing anti-Israel bias at Unesco as reasons for the decision.

The decision by Unesco to readmit the US, which has 24 properties inscribed on the world heritage list, is the second time it has left and rejoined since the organisation was founded in 1945.

In 1983, Ronald Reagans administration pulled the US out over what it saw as anti-Western bias. Unesco, it complained, has extraneously politicized virtually every subject it deals with.

It has exhibited hostility toward a free society, especially a free market and a free press, and it has demonstrated unrestrained budgetary expansion, the Reagan White House added.

But beneath that expressed rationale was frustration that Unesco, with an increasing number of members, no longer acted in consort with US foreign policy objectives.

The countries which have the votes dont pay the bill, and those who pay the bill dont have the votes, the US ambassador to the UN Jeane Kirkpatrick said at the time.

But in 2002, George W Bushs administration negotiated readmittance as part of an effort to foster international goodwill to counter deep misgivings over the US war on terror in the Middle East.

Reuters contributed reporting.
Accused of putting anti-Semitic inscriptions in the center of Uzhgorod and of justifying the aggression of the Russian Federation

A resident of Uzhhorod will be tried over antisemitic statements in a "scientific paper" and justification of Russian aggression in Ukraine, the press service of the Zakarpattya Oblast Prosecutor's Office said on June 30.

Read also: SBU charges Russian propagandist who called for concentration camps and genocide of Ukrainians

"The Zakarpattya Oblast Prosecutor's Office sent an indictment to the court against an Uzhhorod resident over producing and distributing materials containing justification, recognition of the legitimacy, the denial of the armed aggression of the Russian Federation against Ukraine, and the glorification of its participants," it said.

The suspect supposedly produced a "scientific paper," having distorted real facts of events in Ukraine and included numerous antisemitic remarks. He sent his "work" to a local public organization.

The existence of a crime in the document was confirmed by findings of a forensic linguistic examination.

Read also: Chernihiv Oblast collaborator to go on trial for supporting Russian crimes

The suspect justified the Russians and claimed that it was not Russia that provoked the war. In particular, he said that the tragic events in Mariupol, Bucha, and other Ukrainian cities were actually staged by the Jewish community to provoke the conflict. At the same time, he argued that there was no war between Russia and Ukraine, and called Uzhhorod his "native Russian city."

The pretrial investigation was carried by the SBU Security Service's department in Zakarpattya Oblast.

The suspect was earlier accused of inciting national enmity and hatred (Part 1 of Article 161 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine) for antisemitic inscriptions he made on the wall of a building on Uzhhorod's central square late in 2022.

The Uzhhorod District Prosecutor's Office previously sent an indictment in that case to the court; its consideration is ongoing.

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Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine
Valencia College, UCF provides more transfer student financial aid with 1.3M grant

Valencia College and the University of Central Florida will have additional funding for their student success partnership.

The schools received $1.3 million from the Helios Education Foundation this week to provide more financial support for transfer students.

The Helios grant will aid the UCF/Valencia Improving Student Success Task Force.

Read: Central Florida community reacts to UCF joining Big 12

This program will help students before and after their transition from Valencia to UCF, including:

$500 to use toward up to three Valencia common prerequisite courses.

For those with an Associate in Arts degree, $250 to use toward common prerequisite courses before transferring to UCF.

A $500 financial aid award for part-time students to continue their studies at UCF and supplement their financial aid in the transition from Valencia to UCF.

Read: Dawkins set to lead UCF mens basketball program in brutal Big 12

The grant will support Valencia College DirectConnect transfer students in the Fall 2023, Spring 2024, and Summer 2024 semesters.

DirectConnect to UCF is an important pathway to help students earn life-changing bachelors degrees and become part of the talent pipeline that fuels Central Floridas industries, said UCF President Alexander Cartwright. Thanks to the support of Helios Education Foundation, more students will be well-prepared to launch or advance their careers faster, jump-starting innovation and serving our community.

The DirectConnect to UCF partnership began in 2006, and over 42,000 UCF bachelors degrees have been awarded to Valencia College students.

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Vulnerable sea turtle population sets record for most eggs laid in a year: There is no alternative [to] public awareness

There is good news on the horizon for one of the worlds smallest and most vulnerable sea turtle populations, thanks to the help of some highly effective conservation efforts.

A recent survey by Nature Conservation Management (NACOM) reported a 30% increase in olive ridley turtle eggs on the Bangladeshi islands of Pachar, Shilkali, and Shahpari since 2022, Mongabay reports. This trend  which is a record for turtles in the area  follows a 22% increase in the number of eggs found on the island in 2021.

There has been a direct correlation between the number of eggs found on the islands and conservation efforts undertaken by non-governmental organizations (NGOs), volunteers, and the Bangladeshi government.

So far, the government has set up five conservation centers in Coxs Bazar, a coastal district popular with olive ridleys during nesting, which is when their eggs can be incubated and hatched. The Bangladeshi government has also set up designated nesting regions for the turtles to haul up on shore. Both of these measures were made to increase the turtles chance of survival  and so far, its showing promise.

The olive ridley turtle is currently listed on the International Union for the Conservation of Natures (IUCN) Red List. This designation is for species with a high risk of extinction due to human and environmental threats. The tiny turtle is one of over 150,000 species on the organizations radar and among the 42,000 at imminent risk of extinction.

Particular risks to the olive ridley and the four other turtle species that frequent Bangladeshs beaches include increasing tourist traffic and development on the beach and ensnarement in offshore fishing nets. According to the Bangladeshi Department of Environment, the number of sea turtles that died from fishing nets has also decreased from 48 in 2019 to 12 during the first six months of 2020.

Sarwar Alam, divisional forest officer for the Coxs Bazar region, told Mongabay that conservation stories like these could help protect more vulnerable populations in the long run.

There is no alternative [to] public awareness to prevent disruption of sea turtle breeding, Alam said.

Join our free newsletter for cool news and cool tips that make it easy to help yourself while helping the planet.
Reuters

Despite all of Belarusian strongman Alexander Lukashenkos chest thumping about his involvement in negotiating an end to Wagner boss Yevgeny Prigozhins uprising in Russia, he might have set himself up for political instability, a top U.S. diplomat tells The Daily Beast.

With Lukashenko agreeing to have Prigozhin exiled to Belarusand potentially having Wagner fighters move to Belarusthere are likely elite Belarusian politicians in Lukashenkos circle who are eyeing the outcome of his negotiations with great distaste, U.S. Ambassador Michael Carpenter told The Daily Beast.

Im sure the top power in nomenklatura in Belarus is looking very carefully at what has occurred, Carpenter, who has tracked the ins and outs of Lukashenkos rule for years, told The Daily Beast. Some of them are beholden to Russia and others very much want to chart a course for an independent, sovereign Belarus.

And with Wagner mercenaries potentially on their way to resettle in Belarus following the uprising, many elite Belarusians are likely on edge about having killers and convicts with brutal reputations for killing on their territory, Carpenter said.

Youve got an armed mercenary group that has proven that its willing to take on the very power that sustained it for a long period of time. It doesnt seem like a very good move to have them inside Belarus, Carpenter said. It certainly doesnt seem like a great idea for anyone inside Belarus.

Lukashenko jumped in last week to help Russian President Vladimir Putin talk Prigozhin down as the Wagner chief ordered his mercenaries to march toward Moscow, calling for the removal of Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu. And ever since he helped broker the deal that got Prigozhin to call off the revolt, Lukashenko has been boasting about his negotiation skills.

His efforts to tout it as a major negotiating win for Belarus, though, might belie the true political complications the deal may introduce within the country.

Hes been spinning it for propaganda purposes as sort of a brilliant coup of diplomatic work but certainly not from the Belarusian perspective, Carpenter said.

The mutiny in Russia, which represents perhaps the greatest challenge to Putins grip on power ever, has left the power dynamics and stability of the entire region up in the air. Its unknown where Wagner mercenaries will go in the coming days and weeks, and its unknown where Prigozhin is at this time.

Kremlin Wants to Purge Prigozhin Loyalists From Key Wagner Roles

The same remains true for internal power dynamics inside Belarus, Carpenter warned.

What does this change? I think its a little too early to tell, Carpenter said. Because it depends on the nature of the so-called power vertical in Russia, and how that influences the power vertical in Belarus.

Although Lukashenko claimed early this week that Prigozhin had arrived in Belarus, the White House National Security Council noted Friday that it does not have certainty on where Prigozhin is. We dont have information that we considerdeem reliable enough to confirm his whereabouts, John Kirby, National Security Council coordinator said on a call with reporters.

But reports have emerged in recent days suggesting that field camps are being set up for Wagner fighters in Belarus, with satellite images showing further likely preparations.

Lukashenko has long been beholden to Putins political whims. But in previous years, Lukashenko has wanted to maintain some openness to the West and wiggle out from underneath Putins influence, former U.S. officials who have tried to work with Lukashenko have told The Daily Beast.

This mutiny, and his apparent role in negotiating the end of it, shows Lukashenko coming out with a little leverage over Putin, said Evelyn Farkas, the former deputy assistant secretary of defense for Russia, Ukraine, and Eurasia.

The sovereignty of Belarus is hanging by one thread. And if he has Prigozhin in his custody then that would be maybe adding one more thread to his thread count. Or another card that he can play, Farkas told The Daily Beast.

Lukashenko is trying very hard to show the world that Belarus is still a sovereign country, that theres still some independent action that he can take, which is very limited, Farkas added.

But its not likely that Lukashenko will be interested in making legitimate concessions to the West at this point, despite his track record, Farkas predicted.

Having Prigozhin in his custody he could deliver Prigozhin to the international courts, he could deliver Prigozhin to the West, he could unleash Prigozhin on Ukraine he could end up being pressured by Putin to let the Wagner people go over his border, she said.

Carpenter is not convinced theres any room for Lukashenko to make those kinds of overtures to the West right now.

It is true that over the course of his rule he has tried to play off different sides and gain some latitude, Carpenter said, but theres very little scope for Lukashenko to at this point, and very little real opportunity for him to chart a course [other] than the one that hes currently on, which is alignment with the Kremlin on almost every policy matter.

Read more at The Daily Beast.

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A Chinese naval ship near Dongju Island, Taiwan, April 10, 2023. (Lam Yik Fei/The New York Times)

Just three months ago, Chinas top leader, Xi Jinping, was in Moscow clinking glasses with Vladimir Putin and expressing his confidence in the firm support the Russian president enjoyed among his people.

That confidence is now in question, after the Wagner private military group waged an insurrection in Russia that has shaken Putins image of invulnerability. Close watchers of China say that the mutiny, short-lived as it was, could lead Xi to hedge a close relationship with Russia that had exposed Beijing to global criticism and threatened some of its interests abroad.

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China views Russia as a necessary partner in challenging the global order dominated by the United States. But Putins appetite for risk  seen in his invasion of Ukraine and his reliance on private armies  has forced Beijing to defend its bond with Russia in the face of Western pressure.

Xis long-term bet will work only if Putin remains in control to help uphold the shared interests of both countries. But the revolt has raised questions about Putins authority: Wagner soldiers faced little to no resistance from regular Russian forces as they advanced on Moscow. And Putins decision to grant sanctuary in Belarus to Yevgeny Prigozhin, leader of the uprising, smacked of a compromise rather than the act of a strongman with consolidated power.

It makes China realize that the Putin governments internal politics are actually quite fragile, said Xiao Bin, a researcher for the Institute of Russian, East European and Central Asian Studies at the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences. The fragility existed before, but it has increased ever since the start of the Russia-Ukraine war.

China has publicly reaffirmed its support for the Kremlin following the insurrection, and analysts say the relationship is likely to remain strong, at least on the outside, because of how the two leaders interests align.

But the mutiny has probably also forced Beijing to consider how its own geopolitical, economic and territorial interests would be affected if Putin were to suddenly be toppled. That could lead China to distance itself from Russia to some degree.

In the 23 years Putin has been in power, Russias relations with China have improved markedly from the Soviet era and the days of President Boris Yeltsin, when the two sides sent dozens of military divisions to face off against each other along the 2,600-mile border they share.

Any regime change in Russia now would prompt an instant reckoning for the relationship. China would be concerned that a new Russian leader would realign the nation toward a friendlier posture with the United States, Xiao said. That could leave China isolated in its rivalry with the United States and expose it to more pressure.

More extremely, a souring relationship between Beijing and Moscow could require China to again redeploy troops at the border with Russia, at the expense of other areas, said John Culver, a former U.S. intelligence analyst on China.

Downsizing the number of troops along the border has allowed China to prepare for the greater potential for conflict over Taiwan or the South China Sea or with India, Culver said. I dont think enough has happened to make them rethink that, but for the first time they have grounds to wonder if maybe they have to.

Any instability in Russia would also be a warning to China about the urgency of protecting the countrys supply of Russian energy imports.

At the same time, a weaker Putin could be an opportunity for China to make some gains, said Wen-Ti Sung, a political scientist at Australian National University.

Beijing may consider accelerating efforts to extract more concessions from Russia. At the top of Chinas list could be access to more Russian technology and more favorable terms for the proposed Power of Siberia 2 gas pipeline, which would help redirect Russian gas supplies that historically have gone to Europe toward China instead.

The questions about Putins political future highlight how differently he and Xi have approached their common goal of weakening U.S. global power and reshaping the global order to better protect their countries interests.

Putin has been far more aggressive, launching the biggest war in Europe since World War II. Xi has in recent years certainly taken a more bristling territorial stance, particularly with Taiwan, the self-ruling island democracy that Beijing claims, using economic sanctions and military drills to keep the island on edge. But he has so far been cautious to avoid tipping the standoff into a war that could draw in the United States and its allies.

Xi has also been focused on consolidating power at home. Starting in 2015, the Chinese leader began a major overhaul of the Peoples Liberation Army to strengthen his grip over the military by ousting commanders deemed disloyal or corrupt and elevating his allies, in many ways to avoid the questions of loyalty Putin faces today.

Some see the Wagner rebellion as the latest sign that Chinas relationship with Russia is increasingly similar to its relationship with North Korea, a country that is notoriously erratic, and that exploits its volatile behavior to try to press China for more support in exchange for backing down.

Since Russia invaded Ukraine, its trade with China has hit record highs. Beijing has also ensured that Moscow isnt diplomatically isolated.

Russias main incentive is to drive up the price of its friendship to get more out of its dealings with China, Sung said. Russia can do this when it appears reckless and unpredictable, not unlike North Korea.

China has paid a considerable price for its support for Russia. The war has worsened Chinas fraught relations with the United States and undermined its bid to improve ties with Europe. The fighting in Ukraine has also drawn more global attention toward Chinas aggressive stance on Taiwan.

China has navigated these drawbacks carefully at home. Chinese state media has downplayed the significance of what it called the Wagner incident and praised Putin for defusing the crisis. The Global Times, a Chinese Communist Party tabloid, accused Western media of hyping the rebellion to misrepresent Chinas ties to Russia. There appeared to be no attention paid to Prigozhins claim that the Russian public was deceived into believing that NATO was responsible for the war.

The Chinese government still believes in Putins control over Russia, and also believes in the long-term stability of Russian society, said Wang Wen, executive dean of the Chongyang Institute for Financial Studies at Renmin University in Beijing, who follows developments in Russia and visited the country after its invasion of Ukraine.

It would be strategic misjudgment to think that the Wagner incident could divide China and Russia.

Despite mainstream support for Russia, other notable Chinese experts have argued that the war has harmed Chinas position in the world, including Yan Xuetong, a senior international relations scholar at Chinas prestigious Tsinghua University.

Speaking to reporters last month in Beijing, Yan noted that the United States had yet to send troops to defend Ukraine, but by comparison, European members of NATO had increased their presence in the Asia Pacific region.

From a security perspective, this war has not enhanced Chinas security but has subjected China to more security threats, Yan said, according to a translation by the Pekingnology newsletter.

c.2023 The New York Times Company
The Washington County Board has made a disaster declaration in response to the severe thunderstorm that hit the area Friday night.

Strong winds caused power outages, downed trees, road blockages and structure damage across Washington County.

More than 2,500 residents in the Nashville area were still without power on Saturday afternoon, Amerens outage map showed.

The county emergency management agency told the community it could take 4-5 days to fully restore power.

Ameren spokesman Tucker Kennedy said in an interview Saturday afternoon that the company was estimating the majority of Nashville customers electricity would be on by late Sunday evening, though some may take until Monday.

The storm downed sub-transmission poles in Nashville that feed power to a large number of customers and wire was down in multiple locations, according to Kennedy.

He said 2,800 Ameren workers and contractors are on the ground working to repair damage across the state from multiple storms. A severe storm hit central and southeast Illinois on Thursday, a day before the storm affecting the St. Louis region.

A total of 934 utility poles were damaged or destroyed, according to Ameren. Nearly 182,000 people lost power on Thursday and another 30,000 lost power Friday, Kennedy said.

With temperatures in the 80s and 90s expected over the next few days, cooling shelters will be available for Washington County residents at the Ashley Fire Department, Okawville Senior Center and Lighthouse Community Church in Nashville.
Crews are currently battling wildfires throughout Washington and more counties are adding burn bans as the weather continues to warm up.

On Monday morning local crews will take over full efforts on the Roza Creek Fire in the Yakima River Canyon.

Its now 75% contained after burning through 700 acres. Firefighters are working on hot spot patrols right now but its still unclear what started the fire.

Meanwhile, 200 people are still trying to get containment around the Moran Creek Fire near Arden in northeast Washington. Its only about 60 acres big but its on steep terrain which makes it harder for crews to work and get it under control.

All the evacuation notices were lifted Sunday morning.

In Western Washington, Olympia Fire got to put some new equipment to work to handle a small brush fire Sunday morning.

Olympia fire fighters extinguished a brush fire this morning with their new foam generating equipment. Please be cautious with bbqs, fireworks, and outdoor burning this holiday. Our unseasonably warm and dry weather has increased the threat of brush fires. Enjoy the 4th of July! pic.twitter.com/7IIrQA43n6  Olympia Fire Dept. (@OlyFireDept) July 1, 2023

Its dry and hot out there so brush fire threats are getting worse.

Fire crews are asking you to be extra careful with BBQs, fireworks, and outdoor burning. And to help protect the environment and yourself, the list of counties imposing burn bans continues to grow.

On Friday, Island County imposed a Type 1 restriction that started Sunday. It bans all outdoor burning in unincorporated areas. But barbeque grills are allowed, along with recreational fires in designated areas, or on private property.

On June 2, King County issued a Stage 1 burn ban for the unincorporated areas. Yard debris fires are not allowed but recreational fires and grills are.

We are coming into the busy summer season, King County Fire Marshal Chris Ricketts said. While its a time to celebrate and have fun with family and friends, its also a time when the risk of fire increases. Our first responders are working as fast as they can, but the community can do its part by being extra careful when burning or lighting fires.

Snohomish County announced an outdoor burn ban for the unincorporated areas on June 9.

Pierce County also issued a burn ban for the unincorporated areas on June 7.




Kamala Harris at Stonewall Inn

Vice President Kamala Harris made a surprise visit on Monday to the historic Stonewall Inn bar in Manhattan, where the 1969 uprising sparked the modern LGBTQ+ rights movement and Pride events worldwide. In doing so, she became the first sitting vice president to make a stop there.

Harris first saw Christopher Park, which is part of the Stonewall National Monument established by former President Barack Obama in 2016. The park sits adjacent to the bar and has been repeatedly targeted by vandals in recent weeks. Harris visited the monument with National Park Service Superintendent Shirley McKinney, who briefed and gave her a tour.

One of the bars owners, Kurt Kelly, and out TV personality Andy Cohen welcomed Harris when she made it to the Stonewall Inn.

Gay Pride was yesterday, so Im like, woo, Kelly joked after embracing Harris and welcoming her to the bar.

I get it, she replied. The morning after.

As a small scrum of reporters and photographers and many joyful customers listened intently, Cohen asked Harris to tell us something that we can be optimistic about this Pride season.

According to Harris, the Biden-Harris administration will continue to support the LGBTQ+ community in the face of attacks by GOP state legislators and right-wing extremists.

I look at these young teachers in Florida who are in their twenties, and if theyre in a same-sex relationship, they are afraid to put up a photograph of themselves or their loved one for fear they might lose their job. It pains me, but it also reminds me that we can take nothing for granted in terms of progress. We have to be vigilant. Thats the nature of our fight for equality. And so were up for it. And we are not going to be overwhelmed. We are not going to be silenced. We are not going to be deterred. We are not going to tire, [and] were not going to throw up our hands; were going to roll up our sleeves.

She emphasized, Thats how I feel about it.

Kelly added, To me, Stonewall means strength in numbers. Every time you put a rock on that wall, we become stronger and stronger and stronger. And you put your rock here today.

Harris posed for selfies with patrons once the press had been ushered out of the bar. She hung out behind the bar for a short time, chatting with people there.

Harris briefly spoke to reporters as she was leaving the Stonewall Inn.

This place represents a real inflection moment in this movement, which is a movement that is about equality, a movement that is about freedom, a movement that is about safety, Harris said, noting the anniversary of the raid. Im here because I also understand not only what we should celebrate in terms of those fighters who fought for fundamental freedoms, but understanding that this fight is not over.

She continued, When I look at the fact that in our country were looking at somewhere around 600 bills being proposed or passed  anti-LGBTQ bills  book bans, a policy approach that is dont say gay. People in fear for their life. People afraid to be. To be! These are fundamental issues that point to the need for us to all be vigilant [and] to stand together.

The Stonewall Inn was raided by police in the early hours of Saturday, June 28, 1969, as part of a pattern of harassment against LGBTQ+ establishments. A fight broke out instead of the patrons and allies dispersing. Six days of protests and conflict followed the raid and subsequent riot outside the bar, along nearby streets, and in Christopher Park. As one of the most significant catalysts of the movements dramatic expansion of protected rights, the Stonewall Riots are widely regarded as one of the most critical events in the LGBTQ+ rights movement.

Her motorcade then took Harris to the Upper East Side for the 24th Annual LGBTQ+ Leadership Council Gala, a campaign reception benefiting the Biden Victory Fund. In front of an enthusiastic crowd, actress Rosario Dawson introduced Harris.

Harris declared, Pride is patriotism!

She said, There is nothing more patriotic than celebrating freedom, which includes the freedom to love who you love and be who you are.

Harris then spoke about her earlier visit to the Stonewall Inn.

I reflected on the determination and dedication of patriots like Sylvia Rivera and Marsha P. Johnson, she said.

She also paid tribute to the late Jim Rivaldo, a political consultant who served as her campaign manager during her successful 2004 bid for San Francisco district attorney. Rivaldo was instrumental in Harvey Milks election to the city council in 1978.

Harris acknowledged Jim Obergefell, who was in attendance, for bringing the case Obergefell vs. Hodges, which established marriage equality nationwide in 2015 when the U.S. Supreme Court ruled in favor of the plaintiff.

Monday was the 8th anniversary of the Obergefell decision.

That progress is not inevitable. It does not just happen. It takes steadfast determination and dedication, Harris said, the kind of determination and dedication possessed by people like Jim Obergefell.

Additionally, Harris acknowledged Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer and New York Gov. Kathy Hochul, and gay California Rep. Robert Garcia, who were all in attendance. She also celebrated the election of two lesbian governors: Massachusetts Gov. Maura Healey and Oregon Gov. Tina Kotec, who were not at the event.

She warned, however, of the current political climate and promised her and President Joe Bidens support in the fight against the backsliding of LGBTQ+ rights nationwide.

These extremists dare to ban books by LGBTQ+ authors or those that have LGBTQ+ characters. Book bans in this year of our Lord 2023, she said, exasperated. Imagine!

Harris continued, As we are clear-eyed about this moment, let us all see also the larger context in which this is happening because this fight is not only about teachers in Florida or young people in Tennessee. This fight is on all of us because when you attack the rights of any American, you attack the rights of all Americans.

As the country approaches another presidential election in 2024, Harris outlined the Republican approach.

Lets be clear about where this is headed, she said. These extremists have a plan to push their agenda as far and as wide as they possibly can. Their blueprint is to attack hard-won rights and freedoms state by state: to attack the right to live as your authentic self, to attack the right to vote, to attack the rights of workers to organize, to attack the right to make decisions about ones own body.

Harris responded to those developments with one resounding message.

Heres the thing, she said. I have news for these extremists. Were not having that!

Harris is the new cover star of the July/August issue ofThe Advocate, Out magazine's sister publication.
Theres an oft-repeated story that the rise of Donald Trump was propelled by a wave of white grievance in the wake of President Barack Obamas election  and that an uptick in white supremacist violence followed. But Pulitzer-winning Washington Post reporter Wesley Lowery says viewing that backlash solely through the lens of Obamas election  or as a response to social justice movements like Black Lives Matter  glosses over a deeper pattern: The white racial violence that has been embedded in our culture not just in the last few election cycles, but since the nations founding.

Weaving together history, interviews and close examinations of key incidents of violence  from the police killing of Oscar Grant in 2009 to a 2014 shooting at a Kansas City Jewish community center that left three people dead  Lowery shows us that white fear and resentment of the other has always been with us. What we call backlash at certain moments is really a long-running whitelash thats intricately woven into American history and currently targets not just Black people, but any group that threatens a shifting consensus of who is American and who is not.

This book is an attempt to put human faces on the relentless cycle of violence that has defined American history, Lowery says, to put flesh and bone on our discussion of white supremacist terror.

Three years after the eruption of protests following the death of George Floyd, Lowery isnt convinced that America is any better prepared to deal with whitelash as a political force, let alone a cultural one  particularly as we head into a sharply contentious presidential election. Trump once again leads the GOP primary field, and his closest rival is Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, who has stoked controversy by curtailing education on Black history.

People have talked for years about civil war, he says. We dont have something as embedded as slavery anymore, but were going in diametrically opposed positions; were ripping ourselves apart from each other. I certainly think thats true. Its a soft civil war. One of our historical blind spots is thinking multiracial democracy  what America should be  is a settled question. Many people are not sure of that.

This interview has been edited for length and clarity.



Erin Aubry Kaplan: What compelled you to write this book, after writing about police brutality and Black protest?

Wesley Lowery: My first book came out November 2016, following the election of Donald Trump. People said, So, whats the next project? To me, 2016 was obviously the closing of one thing and the opening of another. I couldnt help but notice and be horrified by headlines of white supremacy  Nazi activity, the Tree of Life shooting in Pittsburgh. It was clear to me this was going to be a moment of white racialized violence.

Kaplan: People kept insisting after Trump was elected that this is not who we are. I dont hear them saying that so much anymore.

Lowery: This is who we are. Who we wish to be is real, but who we wish to be is not who we are. When we look at American history we look at tug of war between forces of white supremacy and the forces for multiracial democracy. In 2008, you have two great big forces fueling white supremacy: the election of Obama, and the prediction of America becoming a minority-majority country. The country is fundamentally changing demographically. For many Americans, they were horrified, because these were developments that would come at their own expense. What we see historically is that, in moments of Black racial advancement, we see Americas white majority lash out with rhetoric, with policy, but also with violence. We see a strengthening of that white supremacy and violence now. In the Obama years, there was a delusion of a post-racial America. Instead what happened is that people lashed out in anger. A Black president was replaced by one who stoked nakedly nativist anxiety  he wants to get rid of birthright citizenship, for example. He wants to keep the country as it is now.

What weve seen is an intensity of political rhetoric being wielded to foment a movement to win the presidency, and its upended our politics. The single through line of that movement was nativist rhetoric and anxiety. Now we stand approaching another election with candidates  not just Trump  who intend to use the same dehumanizing rhetoric, the same demagogic attack on minorities. And the fear has to be, will this violence be happening again, will it increase?

People have talked for years about civil war. We dont have something as embedded as slavery anymore, but were going in diametrically opposed positions, were ripping ourselves apart from each other. I certainly think thats true. Its a soft civil war. One of our historical blind spots is thinking multiracial democracy  what America should be  is a settled question. Many people are not sure of that. Thats why theres real backlash in this moment to embracing social progress for Black people and other groups.



Kaplan: You talk about the whitelash to the phenomena of immigration. Is it equal to the whitelash around racism? Is it different?

Lowery: Fear of immigration is economic fear, but its also about fear of the other. Those things can be hard to separate  were doing hair-splitting when we talk about what is racial fear and what is economic. Ultimately its all about who is winning and losing. Importation of new workers is about people taking things from you  youre losing. The number of caps and quotas on immigrants in history is always entangled with racialized anxiety.

Anti-Black bigotry is not worse than other kinds of bigotry  its all bad. Its all reaction to change, whether its racial, whether its about sexual or gender identity. When you see a rise in the KKK, you see anti-urbanism, anti-Blackness, etc. A whole set of social and cultural prejudices. We make a mistake when we say prejudice is all interpersonal.

Kaplan: People point to media as a problem perpetuating violence, not just by putting out false information and stoking extremism, but also by taking a kind of neutral position on extremism itself: Report on it, let readers figure out what it means. What do you think needs to change?

Lowery: Yes, its easier for journalists to just write down what happened and wonder who was right. Making change would require us in media to police our public square, to hold our elected officials accountable for their rhetoric. If you value multiracial democracy, its your job to curate the public square so that people dont abuse it, dont abuse freedom of speech. The big problem is that all our institutions  not just media, but law enforcement, political parties  have not taken white violence seriously enough. Were there rhetoric leading to attacks on white people as a group, our institutions would take a much harder line. If someone were calling for the genocide for whites, we would not give them a town hall on CNN. I think its very clear that as country, we allow demonizing of some people and not of others.

Kaplan: You say that bigotry is less important than a long American history of fueling racial resentment to keep the status quo intact, to justify a set pattern of injustice. But doesnt that pattern spring from bigotry, specifically anti-Black bigotry? How can Black people cope with this pattern in this moment?

Lowery: We know that race is a social construct, not biology. But whiteness is real; its power. And whiteness has shifted and changed over the years in terms of who is white, and who isnt. But its still about whos in and whos not. The strategy for Black people has always been one of two things: Assimilate or resist. Its true for any minority group  either assimilate or stand up for your humanity. Black history has been one of resistance to the idea that they are subhuman, not entitled to equity or opportunity. That is still the battle line.



Kaplan: What about the slight increase in Black support for the GOP in the last several years, especially from Black men? How does that figure into racial divisions?

Lowery: Its hard to talk about this through a political lens. The increase in Black support of the GOP is insignificant, especially compared to the number of Black people who dont support. You could have five black people supporting Trump, and its a 100 percent increase  but its totally insignificant. Two in 10 people think we faked the moon landing (in 1969), which is significant. But we dont pay attention to that.

Kaplan: Whitelash drills down into the idea that many white people who are not at all disposed to violence or even racism, at least on the surface, are the real problem. Why?

Lowery: When Barack Obama was elected, a lot of white people really wanted to believe this was progress. They wanted to live in a world where things had been done. It was aspirational. We know that we still live in a country where peoples fortunes are very tied to their race. The only way to overcome the problem is to be honest, but instead, we have people who insist that inequities dont exist anymore.

Kaplan: You talk about Louis Beam, a white supremacist leader who said in 1992 that the future of the movement would depend on individual actions, and reactions to events, not on visible hate groups like the KKK. Kind of like a thousand points of light, minus the positive connotations. With the internet and social media making it easy for individuals to radicalize, has that prophecy come true? How can we change the dynamic?

Lowery: The strategy of white supremacists for decades has been to flood the nation with propaganda with the hope that, as more people become more disaffected, they will themselves find their way into the movement. Dylann Roof, who murdered nine black people in Charleston in 2015, did a Google search to find stats about Black crime after the Trayvon Martin shooting. What that means is that, in a country thats still majority white, people are feeling racially anxious. Those of us who exist as gatekeepers, or as facilitators of the public square, have to take our jobs more seriously. Theres this desire to cover politicians normally, to treat those of them spreading racist or bigoted ideas as if they are not doing something abnormal. We have to make choices, understand the differences between who were covering and how. Having a live camera on a Mitt Romney speech is different from having a camera on a Donald Trump speech, because only one of them can incite people to violence.

CNN said in 2016, Were going to treat Trump like we treat any other candidate. That may sound fair, but its a choice to not do something. There are plenty of ways media can inform people. We can contextualize, we can explain. I think we cant abdicate our responsibility to that.



Kaplan: Ive heard people complain that the media covered Trump too much, that he gets too much exposure.

Lowery: I dont agree. We cant say that Trump or DeSantis should not be covered, but we cant cover them as normal people. We cant be robots and say, Oh this is just a candidate, a candidate is a candidate. We need to ask, who are they and what are they saying? When someone constantly lies and dehumanizes other people, we shouldnt put them on live TV. I dont think thats a radical or a crazy idea.

Prejudice is not a vampire that dies in the light when its exposed  its like a weed, it grows. We in the media have to think about, what is our job? We should not do anything that isnt informative. Something can be news in that it just happened, but its not of consequence. We need to slow down, widen the aperture, not follow whatever sensational thing has just been said.

Kaplan: One of the incidents of racial violence described in Whitelash is the murder of a Latino man in Patchogue, Long Island, in 2008 by a white teen who was out wilding with his friends, looking to attack Mexicans. The case raises a question that troubles us now: Why would a white person who seems tolerant and normal, like this teen, commit an obviously racist murder? And when he says hes not racist, why do we believe that? Theres a parallel here in how people vote for Trump, but say they dont approve of his racial views or actions.

Lowery: It means very little to insist you dont have personal prejudice when you choose candidates who weaponize language to hurt people. It doesnt really matter to me if youre voting for a racist person because hes a racist or for some other reasons that appeal to you. Youre making a choice. You actually can trace how prejudice goes from being interior and personal to being expressed publicly. In Patchogue, the jury selection for the trial of the guy who murdered the Latino immigrant was interesting. A lot of people confessed to being anti-immigrant and therefore couldnt judge things fairly. It was another case of how public rhetoric results in violence or resentment. Steve Levy, the Long Island official at the time in Patchogue who criticized immigrants, insisted he was simply responding to his constituents uneasiness about the impact of immigration.

Kaplan: On the other end of the spectrum is Simi, a white researcher who becomes conscious of racial realities early in his life through seeing it up close as a teen among white friends and realizing, Oh my god, thats the world Im going to live in when I grow up. He chose a career in studying white supremacist groups. Three years after the awakening of George Floyd, are more white people becoming like him?

Lowery: Im not optimistic. There are very few people in our society who are willing to see our world for what it is, who recognize that there is a strong avowed white supremacist movement, and that that movement is often strengthened by our mainstream politics. There are people in my book who are willing to look at this and engage it, to call things by their name. But theres not a critical mass of those people. The majority of white people want to believe the world is better than it is. That doesnt sound terrible, but its a big problem.


West should give up the illusion that Russia will survive in its current form  Ukraine's Security Council Secretary

Oleksii Danilov, Secretary of the National Security and Defence Council of Ukraine, believes that the West should give up the illusion that Russia will continue to exist in its current form.

Source: Danilov in an interview with Bild, a German media outlet

Quote: "Russia will be fragmented, and the world must prepare for this."

Details: According to him, the West should abandon the illusion that Russia will remain in its current form. The Kremlin "cannot control such a large territory, it does not have the ability to do so," Danilov said.

Danilov has said that the Wagner Groups mutiny has shown that "Russia is not a state". "The West must understand that Russia is fragmented and there is no force that can hold it together," he added.

Danilov has said that during the Wagner mercenaries' rebellion, Ukraine analysed how the Russian regions had dealt with it.

Quote: "We have an analysis of how the regions reacted during Prigozhin's rebellion. I can say that based on these analyses, we are able to state what Russia will look like after the collapse... Tatarstan will be separate, Dagestan will be a separate country that has nothing to do with Russia. These are colonies of the Russian Federation."

Journalists fight on their own frontline. Support Ukrainska Pravda or become our patron!
Georgia is set to become the only state in the country to impose work requirements on Medicaid recipients, and the success or failure of its plan could be a test case for other states that are planning ahead for the next Republican White House.

The new program, set to launch this weekend, will allow able-bodied adults who have never qualified for Medicaid to join. It could offer health care coverage to tens of thousands additional residents  but only if they can prove they work or are enrolled in job training or other activities for 80 hours a month.

There is a renewed focus on Medicaid work requirements among conservatives, and while the Biden administration is not likely to approve any states request, a future GOP president likely would.

Medicaid work requirements were a priority for the Trump administration, which approved 13 such programs. But after a federal judge struck down two approvals in 2019 and the Biden administration quietly revoked another 10, momentum for imposing work requirements stopped.

House Republicans revived the push this past spring, and work requirements for multiple federal programs became a sticking point in debt ceiling negotiations. They were not included in the final compromise legislation, as President Biden and Democrats said the policy was a nonstarter.

The Congressional Budget Office (CBO) estimated that Medicaid work requirements would save the government $109 billion but would not result in any more people working.

It said about 600,000 adults would lose Medicaid coverage under the bill, though the Department of Health and Human Services said it could have been many more.

Despite the evidence that Medicaid work requirements dont work at their stated goal, which is to support employment, they persist and there continues to be interest in this in certain states, said Joan Alker, executive director of the Georgetown University Center for Children and Families.

And I wouldnt be surprised, if we have a change in administration, that this policy will be once again brought out.

Republicans have long argued that work requirements are necessary to encourage people to pull themselves out of poverty, and conservatives say Georgias program has a lot of potential.

I think the benefits of this program are that, ultimately, its a way to receive health insurance, but Medicaid coverage is not the end goal, said Chris Denson, policy and research director for the Georgia Public Policy Foundation, a libertarian think tank. Its ultimately a pathway to be commercially insured, rather than staying on Medicaid.

Some GOP state officials are now trying different tactics to circumvent the previous legal challenges.

In Arkansas, state officials submitted a new waiver to the Biden administration earlier this month asking the federal government to allow work requirements for people on its expanded Medicaid program.

Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders (R), who was a White House press secretary in the Trump administration, said reviving work requirements will address our states workforce challenges and empower thousands of Arkansans to escape the trap of government dependency.

A federal judge blocked the previous program in 2019 after about 18,000 people lost insurance in the first seven months it was implemented.

But the new approach will not remove anyone for failing to comply. Instead, it will move them from the private insurance used for Arkansass expansion to the traditional fee-for-service Medicaid program, which is less generous.

Biden health officials have not commented on pending waiver applications.

Georgias application for its Pathways to Coverage program was approved in the waning days of the Trump administration. In early 2021, the Biden White House rescinded the work requirements and a policy that certain beneficiaries pay a monthly premium.

Gov. Brian Kemp (R) sued, and a federal judge found in favor of the state, ruling it will see a net gain in coverage even if people are removed for failing to meet the work requirement. In a surprising move, the Biden administration did not appeal, allowing the program to take effect.

But the states estimates on how many people will benefit vary.

When Kemps plan was first unveiled, about 50,000 people were estimated to gain coverage. The latest estimates are about 345,000 people, but advocates were skeptical that many would be able to meet the reporting requirements.

Georgia has one of the strictest Medicaid requirements in the country, and will only cover parents earning up to about 30 percent of the federal poverty line (an annual income of no more than $8,000 for a family of three).

The state for a decade has refused to adopt full expansion under the Affordable Care Act (ACA). Critics say it is losing out on significant federal money, and the Pathways program will cost more to cover far fewer people than full expansion.

What we know is that in Georgia, more than 400,000 Georgians would be covered if the state expanded Medicaid, said Laura Colbert, director at Georgians for a Healthy Future.

Leah Chan, director of health justice at the left-leaning Georgia Budget and Policy Institute, said if Georgias expansion covers 100,000 people, it will cost state taxpayers $10 million more per year than full expansion.

On top of the ACAs promise that the federal government will pay 90 percent of expansion costs, advocates say Georgia is also forgoing the American Rescue Plans temporary bonus, meant as an additional incentive to broaden coverage.

According to estimates by the KFF, that bonus would total more than $1.3 billion over two years.

The Pathways program will partially expand Medicaid coverage to people with incomes up to the federal poverty level: less than $25,000 per year for a family of three. But people will need to prove they already meet the 80-hour requirement in order to apply, and theres no grace period  with no exemptions for full-time caregivers for young children or other relatives.

Those covered under standard Medicaid will get to keep their coverage without meeting work requirements.

Denson, of the Georgia Public Policy Foundation, said he thinks the partial expansion aspect of Georgias program makes it unique and sets it up for success.

Were very hopeful that this will show other states how to lead the way when it comes to serving this population, Denson said.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Why a plane saying that the RI shore isn't private flew over beaches on Saturday

A small plane with a banner stating, "THE RHODE ISLAND SHORE IS NOT PRIVATE!" flew over South County beaches on Saturday.

"The point is the Rhode Island shore belongs to the Rhode Island public  always did," said Scott Keeley, the activist who organized the demonstration.

Keeley, a Charlestown resident, was famously arrested while gathering seaweed on the beach in front of private homes in 2019. The charges were later dropped, but the incident highlighted the fuzziness around where Rhode Islanders' constitutional right to the shoreline begins and ends.

More: His quest? Walk RI's entire coast  But private property and blocked access are a challenge

Now, the state has new legislation designed to clear up that fuzziness. A few days before the July Fourth weekend, Gov. Dan McKee signed into law a bill that allows the public to use the shoreline within 10 feet of the visible high tide line. It took effect immediately.

Keeley said that he initially envisioned the fly-over as a protest when he came up with the idea over the winter  at a time when some lawmakers didn't seem to be on board with the bill.

"Now, it's a celebration," he said.

The plane left Westerly shortly before 11 a.m. on Saturday and flew along the coastline as far as Bonnet Shores in Narragansett, passing beaches that were packed for the holiday weekend. On social media, supporters excitedly reported seeing it from East Beach, Green Hill, Matunuck, Scarborough State Beach and beyond.

More: Pawtuxet Village neighbors triumph as developer withdraws controversial plans

Keeley organized an online fundraiser and also contributed money of his own to pay for the plane. All told, advocates exceeded the initial $1,100 fundraising goal  which turned out to be a good thing, because gas prices went up afterward.

"It's great," Keeley said of the new law that he inspired. But, he added, "It's not perfect. Plenty of people will tell you that." The law, for instance, doesn't give the public the right to use the entire shore, as is the case in some states, such as like Hawaii and Oregon. But it does add clarity, Keeley said.

On Saturday morning, when the plane passed overhead, he was back on the beach where it all started  at the spot where Charlestown meets South Kingstown, and fencing and a forbidding-looking sign state, "Town Beach Property Ends Here  Private Property Beyond This Point."

Keeley has some doubts about the legality of that sign. But he noted that this time around, in a distinct contrast to the day that he was arrested, there was no security guard keeping people away.

"With the new law, it would probably be a waste of money," he said.

This article originally appeared on The Providence Journal: Why a plane saying that the RI shore isn't private flew over beaches
Why there wont be a backlash against the Supreme Court this time

Why there wont be a backlash against the Supreme Court this time

The Supreme Court handed down several key rulings this past week that dismayed liberals. Chief among them was the courts decision to disallow colleges and universities from using race or ethnicity as a specific factor in admissions. The court also found that President Joe Bidens student debt forgiveness plan was unconstitutional and that a Colorado web designer could refuse to create websites that celebrate same-sex weddings over religious objections.

Unlike last year, when the Supreme Court greatly upset liberals by overturning Roe v. Wade, this years big rulings by the justices are unlikely to spark a major backlash from the public at large.

This is well reflected in the public polling. Roe v. Wade, the 1973 decision that legalized abortion nationwide, had become massively popular.

Right before the decision to overturn Roe leaked in May 2022, a Fox News poll found that 63% of registered voters were opposed to such a move while 27% supported it. An ABC News/Washington Post poll put the split at 54% wanting the court to uphold Roe and 28% wanting the decision overturned.

This majority of Americans who wanted abortion to be legal nationally have maintained their stance since the Supreme Court officially struck down Roe in June 2022. Since that time, abortion supporters have won every related measure placed on the ballot across the country  from deep-blue states like California to ruby-red ones like Kentucky.

Abortion rights supporters rally in New York City on June 24, 2022, to protest the Supreme Court's overturning of Roe v. Wade. - Tayfun Coskun/Anadolu Agency/Getty Images

California is an important state to note because voters there faced a 2020 ballot measure to consider the use of race, sex or ethnicity in government institutions (such as education). A clear majority, 57%, voted against allowing state and local entities to consider such factors in public education, employment and contracting decisions.

When a state that voted for Biden by nearly 30 points is against affirmative action, it shouldnt be surprising that the nation as a whole is.

A Pew Research Center poll released last month found that 50% of Americans disapproved of certain colleges and universities taking race and ethnicity into account in admissions decisions to increase diversity. Only 33% approved of the practice.

This Pew poll is no outlier. An ABC News/Ipsos poll conducted after the court decided its case showed that 52% of Americans approved of the decision, while 32% were opposed.

Some polling before the ruling had shown even more opposition: 70% of Americans in a recent CBS News/YouGov survey indicated that the Supreme Court should not allow colleges to consider race and ethnicity in admissions.

But perhaps whats most interesting isnt how many people are for or against considering race in college admissions. Rather, its how many people simply didnt care enough to pay close attention to the affirmative action case before the Supreme Court.

When explicitly given the option, a majority (55%) said in a May Marquette University Law School poll that they hadnt heard enough to form an opinion about the case. (Those who had heard enough were against allowing colleges to use race in admissions.)

This is quite different from March 2022, when just 30% of Americans hadnt heard enough to form an opinion about the court potentially overturning Roe v. Wade, when asked the same question by Marquette but about the abortion case. (A plurality of those who had heard enough didnt want the court to overturn Roe.)

Its hard for an issue to galvanize voters when they arent paying attention to it.

The same holds true for Bidens student loan forgiveness plan that the court blocked. A USA Today/Ipsos poll from April indicated that 52% of Americans were familiar with the case and a mere 16% were very familiar with it. (Those who had student loans were more familiar at 71%, though thats a fairly low percentage for something that could affect them directly.)

Possibly because of that low familiarity, the percentage of Americans who favor or oppose canceling certain student debt differs greatly depending on how the question is worded. When Marquette didnt mention Biden or the government specifically in its May poll, a majority (63%) said they favored forgiveness of up to $20,000. It was a much lower 47% in the Ipsos poll.

Surveys that did identify the proposal as Bidens plan tend to be in the same ballpark, with a split public and a sizable percentage unsure.

The ABC News/Ipsos poll showed that 45% approved of the court striking down Bidens student debt plan, with 40% disapproving. About a sixth (16%) of the public was undecided.

This jibes with polling before the courts decision was announced. An NBC News poll from last year showed that 43% said Bidens plan was a good idea compared with 44%, who said it was a bad idea. Just over 10% had no opinion.

The USA Today/Ipsos survey found that 43% of Americans wanted the Supreme Court to allow the governments student loan forgiveness plan to move forward, while 40% did not. Another 17% had no opinion.

(I should point out that those with student debt were more likely to want government forgiveness in all these surveys, though about 80% of Americans dont have student loan debt.)

The public was similarly split about the court ruling in favor of the Colorado web designer who refuses to make wedding websites for same-sex couples over religious objections. According to the ABC News/Ipsos poll, 43% of Americans agreed with the courts decision, 42% disagreed and 14% were undecided.

There was limited polling on this case before the ruling, though none of it indicated massive opposition. A majority (60%) in a Pew poll that specifically mentioned wedding websites and same-sex marriages indicated they believed business owners should be allowed to refuse services if it violated their religious or personal beliefs.

The polling on Roe v. Wade didnt look anything like this last year. There were no close splits in opinion. People were consistently against overturning Roe, and they cared a lot about it. This led to a historically strong performance for the party in the White House during the 2022 midterm elections and a major backlash against the Supreme Court.

The current polling on affirmative action in college admissions, Bidens student loan forgiveness plan and allowing people to opt out of certain services to married LGBTQ couples if they believe it goes against their religion suggests that courts opinions on those issues arent likely to have a similar impact.

This story has been updated with additional information.

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Worker Gets Condescending '10 Things That Require Zero Talent' List From HR Rep Asking Them To 'Do Extra' Work

Image of HR rep's list asking employees to do extra work

No offense to all the wonderful HR professionals out there, but HR reps don't exactly have the greatest reputation among workers. One Reddit user's recent experience is just one example of why.

The worker received a list of suggestions from their HR rep that were not only condescending, but also cleverly slipped in the suggestion that workers do unpaid overtime.

The worker received a list of '10 Things That Require Zero Talent,' which included asking employees to do extra work.

The worker posted the list to the internet's favorite place to gripe about workplace annoyances  not to mention capitalism itself  Reddit's "r/antiwork" subreddit.

RELATED: HR Expert Advises Employees To Never Quit Their Jobs & Get Fired Instead  'It's Demeaning But It's Worth It'

The list will resonate with practically anyone who's ever worked for a big company with a Human Resources department, but it also feels a bit like a sign of the times. Especially in our era of trends like "quiet quitting," the list feels emblematic of just how frustrated so many people are with their work-life nowadays.

"Thanks HR lady (for treating me like a child)," Redditor u/lorifejes, captioned the post. Their irritation with the list is understandable  every word conjures up an image of a finger-wagging schoolmarm, and the list's tone and content read like the most passive-aggressive, infantilizing buzzkill imaginable.

RELATED: Worker Walks Out In Middle Of Shift After Boss Tells Her She Needs To Go Home And Change Her Outfit  'I Wear These Shorts To Work Often'

The list included micromanaging suggestions that employees monitor their 'body language' and 'attitude,' and then said they should all be 'doing extra' at their jobs.

The title alone  "Ten Things That Require Zero Talent"  is an obvious mind game. It suggests that the recipient doesn't actually have any talent in the first place, but that they can still excel at their job by doing 10 basic things. (Personally, I'd respect you more if you just insulted me to my face.)

However, it's the 10 items themselves that most make the list problematic, and suggestions like "being on time," monitoring your "body language" and "attitude," and "passion" get to the heart of one of the biggest workplace debates nowadays  what are employers actually paying us for?

RELATED: Employer Tells Workers To Work '7% Harder' After Minimum Wage Increases

hr rep's suggestion list asking employees to do extra work

Photo: Reddit

Nobody wants to work with an employee  let alone manage one  who takes every workday as an opportunity to vent their misery for 8-10 hours. But at the end of the day, we're being paid to complete a set of tasks each day, not to have "passion" or positive "body language." For most of us, the pay we're receiving isn't even sufficient.

Wages grew just 17.5% between 1979 and 2020 while productivity skyrocketed by nearly 62%, among the most inequitable economic situations you could possibly conjure. Meanwhile, the Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas reported that, across the country, prices for everything from housing to groceries are rising so fast that most people find their wages don't remotely keep up, even with the wage growth the pandemic brought  which, it should be noted, has already begun to recede.

Expecting people to be effusively enthusiastic about their jobs, right down to the way they carry their body through the office when they're not being paid adequately to even do their jobs, is a bit much, and this HR rep's suggestion of "doing extra?" Well, it went over like a lead balloon.

RELATED: Woman Tests Theory Of HR Being Jealous Of Her After Shes Sent Home From Work For Dress Code Issues

People online found the HR rep's list of suggestions ridiculous, especially since they felt it was just a covert way of asking employees to do extra work.

"My favorite part was 'doing extra,'" the person who posted the list wrote in response to a fellow Redditor, "bc in my book thats called overtime." Nearly every Redditor said something similar in their responses to the HR rep's clever little list.

hr rep's suggestion list asking employees to do extra work

Photo: Reddit

RELATED: Teacher Criticized Over Her Inappropriate Work Outfits After Sharing What She Wears To School

It certainly wasn't people's only gripe with the list, however. One user proposed an alternate list to be handed back to the HR rep, with "respect[ing] employees' time" and "always offer[ing] proper compensation for work done" being chief among their suggestions.

In a move that will resonate with anyone who's ever had a job that didn't appreciate them, the user was careful to stipulate that a "pizza party" does not constitute "proper compensation."

hr rep's suggestion list asking employees to do extra work

Photo: Reddit

It's not unreasonable to expect people to have a modicum of cordiality and competence on the job. But in a job market where wages are often insufficient, job security is a thing of the past, and employers repeatedly show their employees that they are entirely expendable, expecting them to light up a room while "doing extra" is a pretty audacious ask.

No wonder ideas like "act your wage" have become catchphrases. As Beyonce once famously put it, "F you, pay me."

RELATED: Boss Wears Crop Tops & Mini Skirts To Work But Claims Dressing 'Inappropriate' Is OK Because She's In Charge

John Sundholm is a news and entertainment writer who covers pop culture, social justice and human interest topics.

This article originally appeared on YourTango
In war, amputees might be celebrated as heroes. But those with damaged faces endure a far different reception.

They often caused feelings of revulsion and disgust, says medical historian and author Lindsey Fitzharris. Her nonfiction book, The Facemaker (Farrar, Straus and Giroux, $30), is this summers FYI Book Club pick.

Fitzharris is a Chicago native living in England  she fell in love with the country while doing graduate work at Oxford University 20 years ago. Her book tells the story of plastic surgerys World War I roots and the pioneering doctor who, she writes, may have restored these mens faces, but figuratively, at least, they remained faceless due to their great number.

Thats 280,000 soldiers from Germany, Britain, and France, alone, who sustained facial trauma of a totally different nature from soldiers during any past conflict due to trench warfare and innovations in weaponry.

Harold Gillies is the surgeon at the heart of Fitzharris narrative. A New Zealand native, Gillies was a London otorhinolaryngologist (or ENT) who excelled in every pursuit, be it medical or athletic  and he loved a challenge.

At the start of the war, he left a cushy job to volunteer with the Red Cross and soon met an eccentric dentist who drove a Rolls-Royce retrofitted with a dental chair and equipment for fixing or pulling soldiers rotting teeth.

The dentist clued in Gillies to the incredible need for wartime facial reconstructive surgeons.

What developed was a then-unusual cross-specialty collaboration that came to include not only Gillies and the dentist, but an international mix of illustrators, sculptors, photographers, early radiographers and trailblazing hematologists and anesthesiologists all working not only to save lives, but to restore soldiers faces.

While healing any battlefield injury was urgent  particularly during what one medical officer in the book described as a war of faecal (sic) infection  the men in Gillies care took urgency to a new level.

In many cases, these particular soldiers were on their feet, organs intact, but were missing entire sections of their faces, exposing brain tissue or leaving them unable to blink, eat or drink.

To make matters worse was  and still is  the stigma of facial disfigurement.

You just have to look at Hollywood to know that we have problems with disfigurement. A lot of villains are disfigured: Darth Vader, the Joker, Harvey Dent becomes evil after hes injured and disfigured, Fitzharris said on a call from her home on the outskirts of London.

Additionally, derogatory terms used during WWI persists today, such as two-faced and losing face.

Gillies understood that victims of atrocities needed not only a serviceable repair job but as close to a regular face as was possible. Fitzharris writes that the surgeon worked from the inside out, achieving the greatest cosmetic results only after restoring the function of the area.

However, he and his colleagues strove toward that goal without textbooks, mentors or, really, any type of useful precedent, though records show attempts at eyelid reconstruction, for instance, in Rome as early as the first century.

And while rhinoplasty, Fitzharris notes, dates back 2,000 years to an Indian surgeon named Sushruta, ideas and techniques for reconstructing the rest of the face were harder to come by, especially in light of the devastating damage many of the soldiers had sustained.

The Facemaker by Lindsey Fitzharris tells the story of plastic surgeon Harold Gillies, who helped the military in World War I. Picador

Fitzharris, who describes herself as a strange child and even stranger adult, said she grew up dragging her grandmother to cemeteries to hunt ghosts. Those around her thought she was morbid and possibly obsessed with death, but it was really that she was fascinated by people who lived long ago  reading gravestones was her first form of research.

The author said that medical history, as far as shes concerned, is the most relatable kind. If you dont like history, you may like medical history, because everybody knows what its like to be sick.

For The Facemaker, as well as for her first book The Butchering Art: Joseph Listers Quest to Transform the Grisly World of Victorian Medicine, she searched for voices from the past in archives rather than graveyards.

She located plenty of medical accounts to draw from, despite a fire caused by a WWII air raid that destroyed many of Gillies notes and thousands of anatomical specimens. It was the patients voices she had to dig for and, when she found them, she couldnt always be sure they were reliable.

Fitzharris unearthed war poetry, war diaries, and many letters, but the disfigured soldiers themselves didnt often write too much about their experiences.  And even when patients talk about their experiences, theyre not always as open, or maybe even as honest about those experiences.

Again, that may have been because of the stigma of facial injuries.

She writes that for centuries a marked face was interpreted as an outward sign of moral or intellectual degeneracy. People often associated facial irregularities with the devastating effects of disease, such as leprosy or syphilis, or with corporal punishment, wickedness, and sin.

In many cases, Gillies or one of the other fledgling plastic surgeons, succeeded in giving their patients new faces  some better than others, particularly toward the end of the war. But in other cases, or sometimes in between procedures, the patients resorted to custom-made masks reminiscent of The Phantom of the Opera.

The masks were heavy, made of silver or other metals and weighed as much as three pounds. They were hard to secure and the paint eventually flaked off. Worse, the masks, obviously, couldnt age with their wearers, and their fixed expressions could be unsettling.

Yet, at the time it seemed a mask was better than the disfigurement, as it was called, and kept people off the blue benches.

On the grounds near Gillies hospital sat several blue benches designated for the patients undergoing facial reconstruction with the goal of signaling passersby to avert their eyes. The men also wore blue hospital uniforms with the same objective.

Unfortunately, Fitzharris writes, this further contributed to the othering of disfigured people and must have made some patients feel even more isolated during their time there.

Yet the men unintentionally acted as catalysts for advances: to plastic surgery, to anesthesiology, to hematology and to other areas of medicine.

Nurse Catherine Black, as quoted by Fitzharris, said, [T]he Great War in which millions of lives were sacrificed was indirectly responsible for saving millions of others.

But, ironically, these advances in medicine also worked to prolong WWI, keeping armies stocked with soldiers.

(Medical advancement) was a double-edged sword during the war and certainly did serve to prolong the war in some instances, Fitzharris said. Also, it was awful for the nurses and the doctors to work on these men for months, sometimes years, send them back to the front and then find out they died from some other kinds of injuries.

By the armistice, however, the new art and science of plastic surgery wasnt so embedded in the culture that those whod laid its foundation were certain of continued work in the field; doctors who wanted to open private practices would necessarily transition from treating victims of armed conflict to elective, but often no less life-changing, cases.

For instance, in 1949 Gillies was the first surgeon to successfully perform a female to male gender-affirmation surgery, and his technique became the foundation for modern phalloplasty.

Fitzharris quotes that particular patient as neatly summing up the work of plastic surgery as performed by Gillies: one aim had always been to make life tolerable for those who either Nature or man had ill-treated without regard to conventional views and to many a one he must have given renewed hope and a new start.

Todays soldiers in Ukraine have dug trenches winding through the 600-plus miles of the front line and are sustaining injuries similar to those of WWI. Fitzharris said she couldnt have foreseen a modern war equivalent as she worked on The Facemaker.

Even as she wonders what advancements will come of todays wartime reconstructive surgery, she hopes that readers of her book will question what war does to the human body.

We think about casualties, we think about death, of course, Fitzharris said, but not about the people who are wounded and survive. That gets even more complicated when those wounds are socially unacceptable, when theyre wounds to the face.

Anne Kniggendorf is a writer and editor for the Kansas City Public Library and is the author of Secret Kansas City and Kansas City Scavenger. Follow her @AnneKniggendorf.

Join the club

The Kansas City Star partners with the Kansas City Public Library to present a book-of-the-moment selection. We invite the community to read along. Kaite Mediatore Stover, the librarys director of readers services, will lead a discussion of Lindsey Fitzharris The Facemaker at 11 a.m. Sunday, Aug. 20, at the National WWI Museum and Memorial. The author will join the conversation via video call. Email Stover at kaitestover@kclibrary.org to join in or to learn about other discussion dates.

An excerpt





Bells features were swollen beyond recognition, but Gillies wasnt concerned. He could see beyond the angry swelling to what Bell would look like once the reconstructive process was complete. Gillies was excited by the result, since he felt that it underlined the value of a fundamental principle of plastic surgery. The first step toward filling a tissue gap was to keep what was normal in its normal position, he wrote, or (as in Private Bells case)  move it back into its original normal position and retain it there. This, he believed, was the cornerstone of this strange new art. 

Bells case was a difficult one, given the severe loss of tissue exacerbated by the hasty closure of his primary wounds at Valadiers hospital. The reconstructive work required specialist skills that most surgeons at the time simply did not possess. Stitching a large cut on a leg was nothing compared to the delicate task of sewing together a deep cut to the face. A good style will get you through, wrote Gillies. Surgical style is the expression of personality and training exhibited by the movements of the fingers; its hallmark  dexterity and gentleness. As Harold Gillies illustrated time and again at Sidcup, the plastic surgeon was more than just a competent craftsman. He was, above all else, an artist.
Years after saving the bald eagle, 82 of them could be killed in NY wind farm projects

The bald eagle all but vanished from New York in the 1970s.

The pesticide DDT, ingested by eagles from fish snatched from the states lakes and rivers, thinned the shells of their eggs, causing them to soften before they could hatch.

In 1970, there was just one eagle nest in New York, at Hemlock Lake south of Rochester. It wasnt producing any young. Their eggs were too damaged by DDT.

The eagle became endangered, and, in 1976, as the national bird gained a prominent role in the nations bicentennial celebrations, New York officials wondered if eagles would ever inhabit the state again.

An American Bald Eagle sits on a limb looking over a field off of Griffith Rd. In Gainesville. During nonmigratory times eagles can fly about 10-20 miles a day. Wyoming County is one of the counties that is part of the wind farm proposal.

But the state embraced the challenge like few others, with an ambitious rehabilitation plan.

Young eagles would be brought from Great Lakes states with plentiful eagle populations  Michigan, Minnesota and Wisconsin  to the Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge in Seneca Falls, New York.

There, atop a 36-foot tower, baby eagles were fed and cared for by a four-person team of wildlife biologists careful not to get too close so the birds wouldnt confuse them for their parents.

It worked  23 bald eagles were released after five years. By 1999, there were 10 eagle nests, and by 2017, 323 breeding pairs of eagles were living in nests across New York.

"This news confirms that our rivers, lakes and forests are capable of supporting our nation's symbol for generations to come, Basil Seggos, the head of the state Department of Environmental Conservation, said in 2017.

Less than a decade later, Seggos DEC was approving a plan his own experts say will likely kill dozens of bald eagles.

Green energy plan could kill dozens of NY eagles

The decision came during the permitting process for the Alle-Catt Wind Energy project in western New York and the Canisteo Wind Energy Project in Steuben County, the two largest wind farms ever approved by the state.

In all, the DEC estimates 82 eagles will be killed during the 30-year life of the projects  41 each.

For the Alle-Catt project, 83 wind turbines extending 600 feet into the air will be scattered across 30,000 acres of private land in Allegany, Cattaraugus and Wyoming counties, touching six towns. Canisteos 117 wind turbines will be spread over six towns and 25,000 acres of private land.

The DECs backing came with a caveat. The developer, Chicago-based Invenergy, would need to come up with a net conservation plan. Invenergy recently agreed to pay nearly $2 million to Cornell University to rehabilitate dozens of injured eagles and return them to the wild.

Wind turbines slowly spin in the wind at the High Sheldon Wind Farm, Monday, July 10, 2017, in Sheldon, N.Y. The farm is operated by Invenergy.

In letters to the state Public Service Commission, opponents questioned how the DECs decision squared with New Yorks long history of standing up for the nations symbol of freedom.

Cattaraugus County Legislator Ginger Schroder, a longtime opponent of the Alle-Catt project, suggested the payout was blood money in a letter to state officials in May.

How wonderful for them: a true win-win for Invenergy/Alle Catt and a lose-lose for the Bald Eagles in our area, New York State taxpayers and for my constituents, Schroder wrote. She and her husband own a poultry farm in Farmersville where more than a dozen wind turbines will go.

God help you if you shot one of these endangered birds, wrote Norman Ungermann of Cuba, a former Allegany County legislator. Punishment for doing so was AND STILL IS thousands of dollars in fines and/or jail time! I can also remember that you could not disturb a nest and had to stay some 300' away from it or be fined. Now, (in the name of 'green energy') we are justifying the killing of these birds???

New Yorks success in achieving some of the nations most ambitious clean energy goals rests largely on whether it can produce enough wind and solar power upstate to reverse the downstate regions near-total reliance on fossil fuels. The plan is for wind and solar power generated on upstate farmland to be sent down to the lower Hudson Valley and New York City over a network of high-voltage transmission lines.

But in western New York, that plan is  quite literally  on a collision course with the states duty to protect its wildlife, a legacy underscored by the eagles comeback. And at the center of it all is the Department of Environmental Conservation, which finds its dual priorities  protecting the environment and protecting wildlife  in conflict.

She brought bald eagles back to NY

Tina Milburn Morris had to move carefully, making sure the eaglets didnt mistake her for their parents. If they believed humans to be the source of their food, they could attack them in the wild.

On a platform built 36 feet in the air at the Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge, Morris rigged a blind through which she could deliver eagles their food  fish attached to a barbecue fork.

Tina Morris catches carp that will be fed to bald eagles bred at the Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge in Seneca Falls in 1977.

It was 1976 and Morris was a graduate student at Cornell, studying wildlife biology.

Morris pitched the idea of hacking bald eagles  or the practice of raising and releasing bald eagles in the wild  to Tom Cade, a Cornell ornithologist who pioneered the technique in his work with the peregrine falcons. She would be part of a four-person team that would work with the DEC and members of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

They chose Montezuma since there had been eagles nests there since 1959 and it was close to Cayuga Lake and Cornell.

Hacking had worked with falcons, but would it work with eagles? Eagles feed and fly differently and there was no telling whether they could live without their parents around.

They decided to bring eagles from the Great Lakes, where DDT had not taken the toll on the population that it had in the northeast.

A bald eagle takes flight in Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge on Jan. 13, 2021.

In 1976, two birds  a male and female  were brought in from Wisconsin. By summer they were fishing in the refuge. Still too small and weak to fly, Morris regularly retrieved them from the marsh and cattails in the refuge. By October they flew off by themselves.

How to Hack Bald Eagles was the title of her thesis.

Morris, now 74, got her graduate degree from Cornell in 1978 and moved to Andover, Massachusetts where she raised her children and spent 23 years teaching in an elementary school. But in retirement she decided to write a book about her work.

In the fall, she returned to Montezuma for the first time, meeting with bird watchers and Fish and Wildlife workers who lecture on the refuges central role in the eagles comeback.

I heard there were all these eagles in Montezuma and so I called them and they had no idea who I was, she said.

The tower she once climbed was still there but it didnt look sturdy enough to hold her. And she didnt care to try.

It was incredible to me to think that there was nothing in the northeast when we started and then all of a sudden there were eagles everywhere, she said.

Today, there are six eagles nests on the refuge and 29 if you count the surrounding wetlands.

Western NY towns back the eagles

Melanie Brown took a stand against the Alle-Catt project in her successful bid for town supervisor last year in the western New York town of Farmersville.

Hers was the lone voice on the five-person council that was opposed to the project.

Im the only one and they hate me, Brown mused recently, standing beside a field near her home where Invenergy has plans to build a wind turbine. They spend more time attacking me than doing productive business.

Farmersville is aptly named.

One of the places wind turbines are proposed to be built are on the hills behind the farm building on West Centerville Road in the Town of Rushford.

The Amish still use horse-drawn wagons to work their fields and deliver milk to markets, scattering evidence of their trips on local roads. Clothes are hung from lines and wood is stacked.

Tidy homes and ramshackle barns interrupt acres upon acres of green meadows, colored by fields of wildflowers.

Brown says her neighbors dont mind feed silos that extend hundreds of feet into the air. Wind turbines of 600 feet or more are another thing.

They dont want to see a wind turbine when they come out their front doors every day, Brown said. And for similar reasons I dont want to see wind turbines destroy our landscape.

Her great grandparents arrived here in the 1880s to run a dairy farm and a cheese factory. She left to work as a corporate lawyer in New Jersey and returned when she retired a few years ago.

Project supporters say the tax revenue Invenergy will bring to the town will help fix some notoriously bumpy local roads.

Invenergy estimates it will deliver $9 million in annual revenue to the towns where the wind turbines will go and enough power for 134,000 homes.

Rolling hills dotted with homes and farms surround Farmersville.

The company is negotiating PILOT (Payment in Lieu of Taxes) agreements that would assist Farmersville and neighboring Franklinville pay for road repairs and other needs.

Of course this project would help the town of Farmersville with funds for the many road repairs especially, Councilman Richard Westfall said in an email when asked to discuss the project. Why talk to me, anyone should be able to figure it out?

Brown, Schroder and others have noted that several local elected officials have contracted with Invenergy to lease portions of their property for turbines, evidence of a conflict.

Invenergy touts the payouts to farmers in its promotional material.

Wind power is the new cash crop for farmers and landowners, the company says on the website for the Canisteo project, nothing that $49 million in payments will be made to landowners during the first 20 years of the project. Another $2.3 million per year will come in PILOT and host community payments.

Alle-Catt will deliver $3 million per year in PILOT and host community agreements.

State officials also boast of the revenue that will go to farmers.

In its 2020 decision approving the Alle-Catt project, a state siting board noted in a press release how it will generate $2.7 million in annual payments to local landowners. This consistent stream of supplemental revenue can protect against fluctuating commodity prices and help maintain family farms, the release said.

And, Brown and other critics say, the energy generated for the project wont be used locally. It will be sent down to the lower Hudson Valley and New York City.

Huyck Rd. in Farmersville has few homes on sections of it.

Invenergy recently asked for an extension of time to build the project since currently there are no transmission lines that will deliver the wind energy to the grid  an obstacle threatening to slow the states renewable build-out.

Why are we subjecting ourselves to this pain and suffering when we dont have to, Brown said. We dont get any kind of tangible benefit from it.

Insurance: The dull way Americans are being forced to care about climate change risk

Residents fear what will happen to the eagles that soar over their property after trips to nearby Harwood Lake.

Ludmilla Tabaczynska knows theyre around when her chickens raise a ruckus.

We moved here because we want green hills and birds and trees and I really dont like the idea of wind turbines, especially the 600-foot tall ones, she said. Theyre like big metal monsters among the hills.

Can Cornell program make up for eagles killed?

The DEC analysis of the Alle-Catt and Canisteo projects reads like a declassified intelligence report. The locations of eagle nests are blacked out as if they were state secrets.

The reports document the DECs concerns with the projects impact on nearby nests. For Alle-Catt, there are nine breeding territories within ten miles of the project, seven still active. At Canisteo, there are seven nests within ten miles.

The agencys wildlife biologists estimate of 41 eagle kills tied to Alle-Catt is pegged to the average annual productivity of 1.3 eagles per year at a nest within two miles of the project, multiplied by the 30-year life of the project. Two more deaths are added for eagles flying through the area.

Two American Bald eaglets stand on their nest in Belvedere preparing for the time that they will fly. This and another nest would be in their flight range of a proposed wind turbine site.

It notes that younger eagles have longer tails and are broader than adults and not as skilled at maneuvering. These physical traits suggest that young bald eagles may have less of an ability to avoid collisions, they note in 2019 testimony on the Alle-Catt project.

They say the collision rate for eagles has been understudied, citing one study which tallied 49 collisions in 16 states between 2013 and 2018.

As the number of wind turbine facilities has increased, and the Bald Eagle population has increased, the number of collisions has increased, DEC wildlife biologists Scott Crocoll and Anne Rothrock concluded in 2019.

The Janet L. Swanson Wildlife Hospital and Bald and Golden Eagle Health and Conservation Program at Cornell will treat and rehabilitate 75 to 85 eagles with a goal of returning them to the wild.

The $1.997 million payout will pay for faculty and staff, cages, equipment and satellite transmitters. The payout covers the Canisteo and Alle-Catt projects.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has not reviewed the arrangement with Cornell.

But in 2009 the service created a set of regulations to authorize incidental injury and deaths of eagles, known as take.

Under these regulations, any take of eagles that is not consistent with the species preservation must be offset with compensatory mitigation, the service says.

Offset means reducing other eagle deaths by an amount equal or greater than the unavoidable mortality or increasing the eagle population by an equal or greater amount.

The state DEC has similar regulations.

Project opponents accuse the DEC of too narrowly defining the impact on the eagles habitat.

Karen Schneller-McDonald, an expert hired by citizen groups opposed to the projects, said the DEC successfully returned eagles to the wild by protecting their habitat.

Eagle habitat is not only defined by a nesting tree or feeding areait is also airspace; migration routes and travel corridors that link nesting and feeding areas, Schneller-McDonald writes.

She said the DEC failed to follow its own guidelines before signing off on the Cornell agreement, also known as a net conservation plan.

Wind towers should not be sited in areas where they will negatively affect nesting, roosting, daily foraging movements or migration of bald eagles, the DEC concluded in a 2016 conservation plan for eagles. Movements between both nests and foraging areas and winter roosts and foraging areas should be taken into consideration.

Gary Abraham, the attorney for citizen groups, says the DEC has ignored concerns about eagle habitats to justify a renewable build-out, which envisions a carbon-free electric grid by 2040. He said the net conservation plan should have included creating a habitat where eagles could thrive rather than a rehabilitation program.

They believe climate change justifies just about everything, Abraham said.

The agency defends its decision on the projects.

DEC is committed to upholding the strong state and federal requirements in place for the overall protection of endangered and threatened species for all projects that pose an impact to listed species and their habitat, DEC said in a statement.

Cornells Sara Childs-Sanford, the schools section chief for wildlife medicine, said the project will improve the health of bald and golden eagles through veterinary care and research. Cornell is proud to support the renewable energy industry and efforts toward a more sustainable future that is safer for the environment, Childs-Sanford said. The recovery of bald eagle populations is a great conservation success in the United States, however both bald and golden eagles remain threatened by numerous pressures that impact their health and population growth."

Eagle's defenders don't want to lose them

At least twice a week, Jackie Bakker heads out to the Montezuma refuge to spy for eagles and other birds  sightings shared on the Friends of Montezuma Wetlands Complex site. On June 21, she posted a picture of a fledgling bald eagle at Benning Marsh.

Shes all for renewable energy but has great affection for the eagle.

A bald eagle takes flight in Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge on Jan. 13, 2021.

I am in love with our bald eagles and I dont want any of them to die, Bakker said. Its nature and its a cycle and animals are born and animals die and so I try to be realistic. But sometimes my heart kind of interferes.

Dan Jordan understands the sentiment.

Jordan, 69, was coming home one night a few years back when he spotted a bald eagle in a tree beside his home on the Allegany River.

The retired marketing executive who took wedding photos on the side, decided he wanted to photograph eagles. He estimates hes taken 340,000 photographs since 2016.

I spent an hour photographing the two eaglets practice flying and consuming a huge fish and adult had dropped off for them, he wrote one day in June. They will be fledging any day now. I hope that I am there to capture their special moments.

He questions whether the Cornell program will actually return eagles to the wild.

If its true that were going to slaughter that many eagles then I dont really see that $2 million is going to accomplish a lot, Jordan said. Were gonna pay $2 million to teach people how important eagles are to preserve by killing them. Its a circular logic to me.

For subscribers: How dead whales became the symbol of a political battle in NJ and elsewhere

Morris is writing a book about her days hacking eagles at Montezuma. It will discuss the many threat eagles and other birds continue to face.

Acquaintances unaware of her past tell her about the eagle they recently spotted in their backyard.

And I'm thinking, yeah, that's pretty incredible, Morris said. You have no idea how incredible that is. People don't realize how important it is to keep an eye on them and just not take it for granted that they're there. Because they could disappear again. And we just can't, we can't be vigilant enough.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY NETWORK: Bald eagles saved in New York now at risk with wind farm projects
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy visited Odesa on 2 July.

Source: Zelenskyy on Telegram

Details: The head of state heard a report from Oleksii Neizhpapa, Commander of the Ukrainian Navy, on the operational situation in the Black Sea, the defence potential of the Navy, and the strategy for the development of the Navy during the war and in the post-war period.

They also discussed the interim results and prospects for the development of maritime drone and missile programmes.

The President also congratulated the Navy servicemen on their professional holiday.

Quote from Zelenskyy: "Many in Russia thought that the Black Sea was their area of power. The enemy hoped that our Navy would not be able to withstand Russia's attacks.

Well, the courage and skill of our soldiers destroyed all these evil hopes and drowned them in the sea."

Journalists fight on their own frontline. Support Ukrainska Pravda or become our patron!
Zelenskyy reproaches partners for delaying training of Ukrainian pilots on F-16 fighter jets

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has said he is concerned about the delay in the schedule for training Ukrainian pilots to fly Western F-16 fighter jets  urgently needed by Ukraine as it fights to eject Russian invaders from its territory.

The Ukrainian leader was speaking during a joint press conference with visiting Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez in Kyiv on July 1, answering questions about the schedule of F-16 deliveries to Ukraine.

"I have the same questions as you do for our esteemed partners," Zelenskyy said.

Ukraine can get the F-16s. We have agreed, we have pressed, and we have a coalition of countries that are ready to start training for Ukrainian pilots. (But) there is no schedule for training missions, and theyre delaying it. I dont know why theyre doing this.

Read also: Dozens of Ukrainian pilots to start training to fly F-16s, air force reveals

Fighter jet coalition  When will Ukraine receive F-16s?

In May, Western partners started talking about forming a coalition to provide Ukraine with F-16 fighter jets, which Kyiv had long been asking for.

The first step is to train Ukrainian pilots. On May 19, UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak announced that his country, the United States, the Netherlands, Belgium, and Denmark had agreed to participate in training Ukrainian pilots on Western fighter jets.

NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg said that Ukraine's allies will individually determine when to start training Ukrainian pilots on the F-16.

Read also: Ukrainian pilots could be trained to fly F-16 fighters in four months, Reznikov believes

The United Kingdom, in particular, promised to start training this summer. Foreign Policy wrote that the country would train about 20 Ukrainian pilots. The media reported that Denmark might start training in August. In June, the Netherlands expressed its readiness to start training in a few months.

As of June 27, the Ukrainian Air Force said that Ukrainian training on the F-16 had not yet started.

Similarly, it has not yet been announced when and how many fighter jets Ukraine will receive.

Read also: Sweden will train Ukrainian pilots on JAS 39 Gripen jets

The White House said the allies will determine in the coming months when Ukraine will receive fighter aircraft, from whom, and how many.

On June 21, Zelenskyy said Ukraine could receive the first F-16s in six to seven months.

Defense Minister Oleksii Reznikov said the F-16s would not arrive before the New Year, although the Defense Ministry had previously hoped they would come this fall.

U.S. news website Politico has reported that Ukraine may not receive its first F-16 fighter jets until early 2024.

Ukraine has been requesting modern fighter jets since the early days of Russias full-scale invasion and war, which started on Feb. 24, 2022.

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Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine
Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Ukrainian President, is convinced that the Russians will be afraid to approach Ukraines Crimea and the shores of the Sea of Azov.

Source: Zelenskyys address from Odesa

Quote: "The enemy will definitely not dictate the conditions in the Black Sea, and the occupiers will have to be as afraid to approach our Ukrainian Crimea and our shores of the Sea of Azov as Russian ships are already afraid to approach our Black Sea coast."

Details: The President noted that he is in Odesa on Sunday primarily to congratulate the soldiers of the Naval Forces of the Ukrainian Armed Forces on the Day of Navy.

"It is enough to recall what ambitions Russia had at the beginning of the full-scale aggression and which of those ambitions are now at the bottom of the Black Sea," he said.

Zelenskyy said that he gave awards to the best and congratulated all of the cadets of the Institute of Naval Forces of the Odesa Maritime Academy. He also visited injured soldiers in hospital.

"There was also a report today by our Commander of the Naval Forces, Vice-Admiral Oleksii Neizhpapa, as well as the Commander of the Odesa Air Defence Forces, General Moskaliov. Both regarding the security situation now, and regarding our strategic tasks - for our fleet, for a new direction - the fleet of naval drones - and for our coastal defence. We will implement everything! I'm sure!" the president emphasised.

Journalists fight on their own frontline. Support Ukrainska Pravda or become our patron!
The monarch has been at the centre of bitter feuds within the royal family

South Africa's Zulu King Misuzulu kaZwelithini is being treated in hospital for suspected poisoning, his traditional prime minister has said.

The king sought medical attention in Eswatini as he is uncomfortable with seeking treatment in South Africa, Chief Mangosuthu Buthelezi added.

This follows the sudden death of one of his senior advisers, also of suspected poisoning, Chief Buthelezi said.

However, the king's official spokesman said he was in "perfect health".

The monarch was currently not in hospital, and "unnecessary panic" should not be created, Prince Africa Zulu said, in what appeared to be an indirect reference to Chief Buthelezi's statement.

King Misuzulu was crowned in front of thousands of his subjects last October.

But a vicious power struggle has been raging within the royal family over the 48-year-old's accession, and tensions have also recently surfaced between the monarch and Chief Buthelezi.

The Zulu king does not have formal political power and the monarch's role within broader South African society is largely ceremonial, but he remains hugely influential with a yearly government-funded budget of several million dollars.

A faction within the family is challenging his claim to the throne in court, insisting that he is not the rightful heir of his late father, King Goodwill Zwelithini.

They insist that another son of the late king, Prince Simakade, should be the monarch.

King Zwelithini had six wives and at least 26 children.

His will has also been challenged in court by his first wife, Queen Sibongile Dlamini-Zulu, and her two daughters.

A court dismissed their case last year, but they said they would appeal against the ruling.

There is no suggestion that any members of the royal family are behind King Misuzulu's suspected poisoning.

The South African police have not yet commented on the claims.

In his statement, Chief Buthelezi said King Misuzulu's senior aide, Douglas Xaba who stayed with him, "passed on quite suddenly and that there are suspicions that he was poisoned".

"When His Majesty began to feel unwell, he suspected that he too may have been poisoned.

"He immediately sought out medical treatment in Eswatini. I am informed that His Majesty felt uncomfortable seeking treatment in South Africa, as his parents had both received treatment in South Africa and subsequently died," Chief Buthelezi said.

Chief Buthelezi added that while the king had recently appointed Prince Africa as the head of communications in his office, he, as the traditional prime minister, had an obligation to inform the Zulu nation of "this worrying situation".

"Our immediate concern is the King's wellbeing. We as the Zulu nation pray for His Majesty's full and swift recovery.

"Should there be any reason for further investigations, that will be attended to by the authorities," Chief Buthelezi said.

In his subsequent statement, Prince Africa said there appeared to be an "orchestrated agenda and a desperate narrative to communicate defamatory and baseless claims" about the king's health.

"Ultimately, this creates unnecessary panic and perceptions of instability in the Royal Crown," he added.

However, Prince Africa confirmed the monarch had undergone a thorough medical examination in Eswatini while visiting his uncle, King Mswati III.

The checks were carried out because of "our current times of pandemics such as Covid-19 and other dangerous ailments", and also "to mitigate against any untimely eventuality, given the reports of Mr Xaba's sudden passing".

King Misuzulu's accession to the throne was sooner than expected, and he has been at the centre of palace intrigue.

His father died during the Covid pandemic in March 2021 of diabetes-related complications.

He was the Zulu nation's longest-reigning monarch, having served on the throne for almost 50 years.

King Misuzulu's mother, Queen Mantfombi Dlamini-Zulu, then became the regent, but she died a month later.

She was the sister of Eswatini's King Mswati III - Africa's only absolute monarch.

At the time, Chief Buthelezi dismissed rumours that she had been poisoned.

He had backed King Misuzulu's accession to the throne after her death, but recent reports suggested that sharp differences had emerged between the two.

It followed a dispute over the chairmanship of the Ingonyama Trust Board, which manages vast tracts of land controlled by the monarch.

The king appointed Chief Thanduyise Mzimela as its chairman, but this was opposed by Chief Buthelezi who felt he was inexperienced for the post, according to local media.
Misuzulu Zulu is king of the Zulu nation (RAJESH JANTILAL)

South Africa's Zulu king, head of the country's most influential traditional monarchy, has undergone "thorough" medical examinations following the sudden death of a close adviser, a spokesman said Sunday, amid suspicions he was poisoned.

The king, who was visiting neighbouring Eswatini, "underwent precautionary and thorough medical exams in a context of Covid and after the sudden death of his close adviser," Douglas Xaba, explained Prince Africa Zulu, contacted by telephone by AFP.

Misuzulu Zulu, 48, ascended the throne last year after the death of his father, Goodwill Zwelithini, amid a bitter feud over the royal succession.

Overnight on Saturday, the influential Zulu prime minister, Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi, said in a press release that the monarch had been hospitalised in Eswatini after falling ill.

The king believes he was being poisoned, after the sudden and unexpected death of one of his close advisers on Saturday, he said.

Xaba "passed on quite suddenly and that there are suspicions that he was poisoned", added Buthelezi.

The royal spokesman on Sunday assured that the Zulu king, also known as Misuzulu kaZwelithini, was "in perfect health and is not currently admitted to any hospital".

The spokesman criticised what he said was an "orchestrated agenda" to circulate "baseless claims of His Majesty's ill health".

Several police sources in Eswatini confirmed to AFP that there was heavy security deployed at a private hospital close to the country's royal residence.

Although the title of king of the Zulu nation does not bestow executive power, the monarchs wield great moral influence over more than 11 million Zulus, who make up nearly a fifth of South Africa's population of 60 million people.

King Zwelithini, who died after more than 50 years in charge, left six wives and at least 28 children.

Misuzulu is the first son of Zwelithini's third wife, who he designated as regent in his will.

The queen however died suddenly a month after Zwelithini, leaving a will naming Misuzulu as the next king -- a development that did not go down well with other family members.

The current king preferred treatment in Eswatini because "his parents had both received treatment in South Africa and subsequently died", said Buthelezi.

Last September, another counsellor of the Zulu king was shot dead in mysterious circumstances on the sidelines of a traditional ceremony.

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AMHERST  Before a packed room of family, friends and the Lynchburg areas legal community, two Amherst County judges  Jeff Bennett and Eugene Butler  were sworn into office Friday.

Bennett, a former Lynchburg prosecutor who spent the past eight years as Amherst Countys Juvenile and Domestic Relations Court judge, succeeds Amherst Circuit Court Judge Michael Garrett, who presided over the court since July 2015. Butler is now Amherst Countys J&D judge and made history Friday in becoming the first Black judge to be sworn into the 24th Judicial District, which encompasses Lynchburg and the counties of Amherst, Bedford, Campbell and Nelson.

Garrett said the changing of the guard in the Amherst County courthouse marked a significant day and recognized the many judges in the Lynchburg area, some currently serving and others retired, who attended the ceremony.

Its quite a legacy to live up to, Garrett told the two incoming judges. Its a good legacy to follow.

Garrett also handed Bennett his personal key to the Amherst courthouse in a symbolic gesture in his last official day as presiding Circuit Court judge.

Bennett, a Chesterfield native and graduate of Hampden-Sydney College and University of Richmond Law School, said hes known Butler, his successor on the J&D bench, for about two decades and in all that time has never seen him angry, raise his voice or lose his calm.

He is perhaps the most even-tempered lawyer  judge  that I know, Bennett said.

Bennett, who eight years ago succeeded Garrett in presiding over Amherst J&D, said the work in that court is tremendously difficult and challenging.

There are days we walk out of the courthouse and feel like we did our best with what we had but you just cant leave the case behind and you drive home praying a child is going to be OK, Bennett said. There are decisions we make every day that we may not like, that we may not personally agree with it, but we make those decisions because we dont write the law but we interpret and apply the law and thats our sworn obligation.

Bennett vowed to work hard, be prepared, act professionally and treat everyone with dignity in presiding over Circuit Court. He said humanity and humility are the two most vital traits in his view to being a judge, who are seen as the focal point in courtrooms.

To me the judges place in the courtroom is not so much a position of importance but merely a position of practicality, Bennett said. The judge is here, front and center, elevated to listen and be in the position to hear everyone in the room.

He thanked the Virginia General Assembly for their trust and confidence in bestowing on him what he described as a tremendous responsibility.

I will work hard every day to justify that trust, Bennett said.

An Amherst County resident for the past 21 years, Bennett worked in the Lynchburg Commonwealth Attorneys Office for 13 years under former chief prosecutors Bill Petty and Mike Doucette. Bennett described the two as mentors who played a major part in his deciding to become a judge. Doucette, who now serves as Nelson Circuit Courts presiding judge, swore Bennett into office during Fridays investiture ceremony.

Chuck Felmlee, a Lynchburg attorney who formerly worked alongside Bennett as a chief deputy prosecutor for the city, said his former colleague worked hard to become one of the most seasoned and accomplished prosecutors in Central Virginia.

Everyone knew he was a rising legal star in our community, Felmlee said, adding the two worked side by side for a decade.

A local attorney described Bennett as possessing mental calmness, composure and evenness of temperament, especially in difficult situations, Felmlee said, adding many local prosecutors past and present had a great time working with him.

Were so proud of everything youve done, Jeff, all your accomplishments, Felmlee told Bennett.

Lynchburg Juvenile and Domestic Relations Court Judge H. Cary Payne told personal stories of Bennett that drew laughter from the crowd.

He has a servants heart, Payne said.

Payne said Sen. Creigh Deeds, a state legislator and Democrat running for the newly redrawn Senate District 11 in the Nov. 7 election, asked Bennett during his interview in Richmond why he wanted to take on 90% more work for only 10% more in pay. Deeds attended Fridays ceremony along with state Sen. Mark Peake and Del. Wendell Walker, two Republican legislators who represent Lynchburg.

I wish I had been there, senator, because I could have answered that question, Payne said. Its because he believes in the justice system and believes in helping people and believes in his community.

Butler, a Washington D.C. native with more than 20 years of law experience, thanked his father, a United Methodist minister who opened Fridays ceremony with a prayer, and his mother, who he called my heart.

The Washington & Lee Law School graduate worked for 13 years as attorney for the Division of Child Support Enforcement, which is part of the Virginia Department of Social Services, and has served as president of the Lynchburg Bar Association. He has been a substitute judge in the 24th district the past two years.

Mary Chamberlin, an attorney for Petty, Livingston, Dawson and Richards, said Butler was a mentor to her and many younger members of the bar association. At Fridays investiture ceremony, Chamberlin described Butler as kind, intelligent, trustworthy, caring, patient and friendly, and in her working with him made each case a learning experience.

Eugene, you are a force of good in this world and a common theme in your career has been treating others kindly and fairly, Chamberlin said to Butler. You are an amazing person, a capable and kind attorney and now you are going to a tremendous asset to the community as a judge.

Butler thanked the many judges he knows who gave him advice, recalling one telling him to never give up, and spoke of their influence. He said he also is grateful to the many clerk workers in the court system who work daily with the public, many of whom are frustrated and dealing with stressful situations, and referred to the legal and law enforcement community as part of the same family.

Butler said much of his success is credited to his parents who were seated directly behind him as he spoke. Just after putting on the judges robe he said, God is good and talked about fulfilling his career goal.

Like my dad always says, prayer works. So I thank everyone, Butler said. I am a very blessed person in this courtroom.
(Photo : Getty Images)

Rockets of Litigation Continue to Burst at Newsweek Despite CEO Dev Pragad's Desperate Declaration of Shareholder Independence



On the eve of Independence Day, Newsweek trumpeted the end of its "long spell of turmoil." But what were meant to be victory fireworks from a press release declaring the resolution of all litigation turned out instead to be duds -- Newsweek continues to feel the heat from an existential court challenge that claims Newsweek rightfully belongs to the International Business Times.

OWNERSHIP OF NEWSWEEK DISPUTED IN COURT

What Newsweek characterizes as a resolution between the two shareholders of its holding company appears to be a purely pragmatic move to avoid escalating legal fees between them. In no way does it resolve the fact that International Business Times has made a credible claim of ownership over Newsweek, and that lawsuit continues.

This is borne out by the fact that an appeal was filed by International Business Times in the New York Supreme Court's Appellate Division on June 29, 2023 -- the same day that Newsweek's recent declaration was published.

If this legal challenge prevails in court, Newsweek would revert back to International Business Times' ownership, and the two current "shareholders" would be corporate owners of what amounts to an empty shell.

HOW THE DISPUTE BEGAN

The background of this matter was Newsweek CEO Dev Pragad's claim to be the owner and self-proclaimed "savior" of Newsweek, whereas International Business Times was the original parent company and owner of Newsweek.

According to court filings, Mr. Pragad has made representations that he purchased Newsweek from International Business Times. But the transaction's validity has been challenged by International Business Times, which argues that it is the rightful parent company of Newsweek, and therefore the ownership should be returned to its original state under International Business Times.

MR. PRAGAD'S THREATS AND LAWSUITS

During the past two years, to protect his self-interest in this shareholder conflict, Newsweek CEO Dev Pragad made threats against associates of his fellow shareholder, Johnathan Davis. The majority of these threats were carried out against Olivet University, an accredited Christian higher education institution, through a series of Newsweek articles attacking the school in what sources say are unethical ways. This was done because Mr. Davis was at that time associated with the university, where his wife formerly worked as the president.

Mr. Pragad further escalated this dispute by filing a $30 million lawsuit against International Business Times, naming Olivet University and the Olivet church as co-defendants, and peppering the filing with religious language having nothing to do with the dispute. The purpose for bringing religion into the dispute was to try to bias the court by introducing religiously discriminatory language against Christians.

However, Mr. Pragad's efforts to bias the court with religious language failed when his lawsuit against International Business Times was dismissed in New York Court on December 29, 2022. Mr. Pragad's lawsuit against Olivet University and the Olivet church was dismissed in New York Court on February 2, 2023. And Mr. Pragad's effort to appeal this ruling was rejected by the Appellate Court on June 15, 2023.

MR. PRAGAD'S LAWSUIT AGAINST MR. DAVIS FIZZLED

Mr. Pragad had named Mr. Davis as a co-defendant in his lawsuit. At the same time, a sudden barrage of attack articles from Newsweek against Olivet University and the Olivet church were written under the premise that religion underpinned this shareholder dispute.

These attack articles were written due to Mr. Pragad's false assertion that the university and the church controlled Mr. Davis. But the fact that Mr. Davis is not currently associated with Olivet University nor its associates in any way shows that this dispute had nothing to do with religion in the first place.

Mr. Pragad was completely wrong. Therefore, the entire logic of Mr. Pragad's lawsuit was broken, and he had no choice but to end the lawsuit between himself and Mr. Davis.

SHAREHOLDER "RESOLUTION" EXPOSES CONTRADICTIONS

The recent "resolution" at Newsweek also highlights the deep contradictions between Newsweek's articles and the real-life facts. In the past, the magazine has attempted to falsely portray Olivet University and its associates as coercive organizations. But its recent article states that its shareholder, Mr. Davis, has left the Olivet church by his own volition. How do these two facts square with each other? It appears that Newsweek has been lying about the Olivet church all along. As one alumnus of the university stated, contrary to Newsweek's mischaracterizations: "People may come and go at anytime freely."

Furthermore, it is quite odd that Newsweek did not respond to a request for comment from its own writers. Neither did Mr. Davis nor his wife respond to Newsweek, which implies something opposite from the harmony that Newsweek's writers are trying desperately to project. The shareholder "resolution" is short on details and raises more questions than answers. And as the legal counsel for International Business Times pointed out, any agreement would require court approval, which is far from certain.

DISCRIMINATION AGAINST CHRISTIANS

Other than that, Newsweek's article contains the familiar slew of discriminatory and false statements. The article mischaracterizes a recent site visit by California state's education licensing agency to Olivet University as a "raid" (documents confirm that Newsweek writer Naveed Jamali was personally involved in instigating this visit). Newsweek also mischaracterizes Olivet University, a legitimate Christian organization, as a "sect."

Additionally, the writers falsely claim that Olivet University has been "closed or put under review" by six states, when in fact the university is in good standing. In a shocking breach of journalistic ethics, the writers of the article themselves incited state education agencies to shut down the university but ultimately failed, since the university withstood all these unwarranted challenges. None of this was disclosed by the article writers.

NEWSWEEK'S TURMOIL JUST BEGINNING

The fireworks Newsweek hoped would light up the sky have instead flown in their own faces. Newsweek's press release claimed independence from Olivet University litigation only one day before the university filed a defamation lawsuit against Newsweek and its Editor-at-Large Naveed Jamali on June 30, 2023. The lawsuit claims that Newsweek and its Pakistani-origin writer Jamali defamed Olivet University by writing that the school pleaded guilty to "money laundering," which the school did not do, according to public court filings reviewed by this journalist. The lawsuit claims Jamali knew or should have known the untruth of what he wrote, and recklessly disregarded reasonable journalistic standards in his malicious act of so-called reporting. The outcome of this lawsuit may be a revelation to the public about the journalistic ethics at Newsweek, or lack thereof.

As Newsweek faces ever more serious lawsuits and a challenge over the legitimacy of its ownership, it would do well to avoid actions that backfire into further liability upon itself. Far from a resolution and "end of turmoil," the troubles for Newsweek appear to be exploding into the open more furiously than the grand finale of a July 4th fireworks extravaganza.

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In light of a recent decision by the U.S. Supreme Court on affirmative action, Randolph College and the University of Lynchburg said they will remain committed to their core pillars and continue to prioritize diversity.

Supreme Court justices struck down affirmative action, a set of policies introduced in the 1960s to ensure equal opportunity and prevent discrimination, at both the University of North Carolina and Harvard University on Thursday, ending the consideration of race in its admissions process.

In an official statement from the University of Lynchburg, the college stated:

The University of Lynchburg remains committed to our core pillar of diversity, equity, and inclusion. We believe wholeheartedly in the strength and importance of this principle and will continue promoting diversity, ensuring a campus culture where everyones voice and perspective are heard and valued. We are dedicated to navigating these changes with a continued focus on inclusivity and respect.

Aaron Basko, vice president of enrollment, marketing and communications at the University of Lynchburg, in an interview with The News & Advance said there are two pieces to this decision: a practical piece of what is actually going to change in the processes of colleges and universities; and a symbolic piece.

On the practical side, this doesnt impact a lot of colleges and universities, which I think the public probably doesnt understand or wouldnt naturally understand. This is really aimed at, you know, a smaller group of really highly selective institutions that really have to adjust their admissions process to shape their classes in a certain way to make sure enough diversity is represented that meets their goals, he said.

Basko added this decision does not in any practical way change our policies or procedures when it comes to admissions.

He said the university may do extra recruitment outreach to remind students this is not a barrier to them.

It wont change our practice, really, at all, he said.

Randolph College President Sue Ott Rowlands sent a message Friday on the colleges website to faculty and staff regarding the decision.

The president said although the college is minimally affected by the ruling, we remain dedicated to the ongoing evaluation and improvement of our admissions processes to ensure fairness and adherence to legal requirements.

Ott Rowlands said the college firmly believes diversity is a fundamental strength of an education institution and will remain steadfast in its community commitment to heed the current call of righting historic silences and the continuous work of equity management in our operations, academic programs, and support services.

Randolphs diverse and inclusive community is one of its biggest strengths, and we remain committed to working together to celebrate and learn from our differences as we build a welcoming environment where every member of our community feels valued and appreciated, she added.
The United Kingdom is absolutely committed to enhancing trade with Morocco, said Minister of State for International Trade Nigel Huddleston.



In 2022 we did about 3.1 billion-worth of bilateral trade, up nearly 50% on 2021, and we are using our association agreement with Morocco to boost that even further, he told the House of Commons at a recent hearing.

Huddleston declared that in February he visited Morocco and discussed with his counterpart ways of maximizing trade, including by tackling barriers in priority areas such as education, renewable energy, and infrastructure.

We are also supporting British businesses to take advantage of the significant opportunities in Morocco, including through 4.5 billion of available finance through the excellent UK Export Finance, he said.

The Association Agreement between Morocco and the United Kingdom, signed in London on October 26, 2019, has been in force since January 1, 2021.

It restores, in the context of bilateral relations, all the effects that the two countries granted each other, within the framework of the Morocco-EU Association Agreement. It thus ensures the continuity of trade between Morocco and the UK after the Brexit.
Members of the European Parliament and international experts participating in a recent conference in Madrid have urged all the countries of the European Union (EU) to support the Moroccan autonomy initiative, now more than ever, in order to resolve the dispute over the Sahara and ensure the stability of the Maghreb region.

The autonomy plan proposed by Morocco in 2007 to definitively end the dispute over the Sahara is a realistic and effective solution to bring stability to the region, the participants stressed at the conference organized by the Spanish think tank Coordenadas para la gobernanza y la economia aplicada.

The panelists, including Fernando Fernandez Aguirre, a colonel in the Spanish Army Reserve, Fernando Garcia Blazquez, deputy director of the General Gutierrez Mellado Institute, and Alvaro Fernandez de Araoz Gomez de Acebo, a cybersecurity expert, as well as Spanish MEP Antonio Lopez-Isturiz and Italian MEP Fabio Massimo Castaldo, urged the 27 member states to support Moroccos position in order to strengthen ties between the two shores of the Mediterranean.

The panelists called on the EU to reconsider its policy towards the Maghreb, in particular by strengthening relations with Morocco that they described as a partner committed to its agreements with the European Commission.

They also stressed the need to continue to encourage and support democratic reforms in the partner countries, especially in Morocco.

The Coordinates for Governance and Applied Economics is an institute for reflection and research on the interaction between governance and applied economics in order to constructively and decisively advance the trinomial of social welfare, economic progress and environmental sustainability.
Well, Brian Beckers trying a power move in wanting to transfer his Hastings quarter horse racing license  and his option to add a casino  to Ogallala.

North Platte folks will remember Becker, the quarter horse owner and operator of Hastings one-day racing meet, from his initial efforts to capitalize on state voters 2020 approval of racinos by proposing new ones in North Platte and Gering.

Those plans were in addition to the all-new racino Becker wanted in Hastings, which he now has abandoned amid opposition there.

Youll recall that North Platte Mayor Brandon Kelliher broke a 4-4 City Council tie on Aug. 17, 2021, in favor of a two-year conditional use permit for Beckers North Platte racino project.

That permit will soon expire  without Becker, who parted last summer with the Chickasaw Tribe of Oklahomas Global Gaming Solutions. Thats the firm that bought North Plattes would-be racino site between Interstate 80 and East Walker Road.

Global Gaming apparently still wants a racino there. But, like Gering, its constrained by last years Legislative Bill 876 and its 2025 moratorium on new horse track-casino combinations, pending studies on market conditions and socioeconomic impacts of the first ones.

Ogallala leaders have eagerly pursued their own racino, first with Minnesotas Canterbury Park and more recently with Grand Islands Fonner Park.

Now Becker has joined with Elite Casino Resorts, the company building Fonners permanent casino, hoping to siphon money from all those Coloradoans who flood Lake McConaughy every summer and from I-80 motorists year-round.

As weve said before, we think its unlikely the Nebraska Racing and Gaming Commission will approve two racinos 50 miles apart in virgin territory for pari-mutuel horse racing.

Clearly Becker believes transferring his racing license will settle the North Platte-Ogallala match race. (As for Fonner, it leaves the Grand Island-Kearney-Hastings racino field to them.)

He has this advantage: LB 876 lets the six current licensees move such racetrack location to another county in Nebraska that does not have a racetrack one time only 

However, thats subject to approval by the commission and must be subsequent to the initial issuance of the market analysis and socioeconomic-impact studies.

So Ogallala cant win before 2025.

As always, no ones talking about the Nebraskans who will succumb to gambling addictions with neon lights and high-roller glamour on their doorsteps.

The legally promised local cuts of gambling taxes will largely pay for the social and law enforcement costs that are bound to follow racinos.

Were agnostic about whether North Platte or Ogallala gets a racino, because were convinced itd be better for both cities if both sides lose.

Ogallalans, and our friends in Gering, will decide for themselves.

But the upcoming expiration of Global Gamings conditional use permit, not to mention the 2025 state moratorium, gives North Platte and its people one more chance to decide whether casinos are right for North Platte.

Yes, state voters gave us the option. That doesnt mean we should or must take it. Look at Hastings.
A Curtis man with a warrant for stealing a vehicle was arrested after allegedly attempting to pass fake money to bank tellers.

Cory N. Weeth, 44, was arrested on suspicion of felony forgery and theft over $5,000.

On Tuesday afternoon, Weeth tried to pass a fake $100 bill with the words for motion picture use only to an employee at an unspecified Adams Bank in North Platte, according to a North Platte Police Department release. He was denied service and left before officers arrived.

Police arrested him in the 1800 block of Front Street. He is lodged in the Lincoln County Detention Center.

In an unrelated case, a man was arrested for allegedly stealing a vehicle after initially introducing himself as Christopher to officers.

Justin A. Rampy, 44, was arrested on suspicion of misdemeanor criminal impersonation and felony possession of a stolen vehicle.

Thursday evening, Rampy was seen in a vehicle in the Loves Travel Stop parking lot. When officers made contact with Rampy, he gave his name initially as Christopher. Officers established his real name was Justin Rampy and verified the vehicle was stolen.

Rampy also has warrants for his arrest in Limestone and Denton counties in Texas.

He was taken into custody without incident and is lodged in the Lincoln County Detention Center.
Sunday will mark one year since Alabama lost a woman who served as torchbearer for education and treatment surrounding sickle cell anemia.

Sarah Thomas, who died the age of 91, became an icon, champion and pioneer for the work she did in Lee County and across the state. She spread awareness and conducted research on the disease that took the life of one of her four children.

After Thomas 10-year-old son Todd Phillip Franklin Thomas died from sickle cell disease in February 1974, she decided no other mother should have to go through a similar situation. When Todd was in the hospital, there was little information about the disease and no programs to help prevent or combat it, so Thomas took it upon herself to make a change.

By 1980, Thomas became responsible for initiating the screening of newborn infants for sickle cell in hospitals statewide. She also founded the Lee County-East Alabama Comprehensive Sickle Cell Education and Research Foundation, Inc., which focused on emphasizing medical care and research.

Board members for the local foundation included Lee County Sheriff Jay Jones, Auburn Senator Ted Little, late Lee County Commissioner John Harris, Rep. Rev. George Brandy, late councilman Clarence Harris, late councilwoman Mary Brooks, late Lindbergh Jackson and more.

In 1979, Gov. George C. Wallace signed the first document to fund Thomas program, which became the first of its kind to receive state funding. Prior to this, in 1975, Wallace also declared February as State Sickle Cell Month, for the first time in honor of Todd. Throughout the years, Alabama governors continued to do so.

Thomas often visited schools, hospitals and community events to share knowledge and spread awareness. People in the community said Thomas loved to help people.

In addition to being an advocate for sickle cell, Thomas was involved in various programs in the community including Pleasant View Baptist Church in Salem, Auburn District Baptist Women Convention and the Lee County Chapter of the American Red Cross. She also established the Nurses Guild, a nursing program within churches, and became the first Black deputized registrar in Salem.

The legacy of Sarah Thomas continues to live on throughout the community and continues to be remembered by the people she came into contact with.

Melton Tolbert, board chair of the foundation Thomas established, remembers when Thomas visited his middle school in Beauregard to share information about sickle cell.

Growing up, he continued to see Thomas being an advocate in the community and remembered her as the nurse lady from his middle school days. By the time Tolbert got to high school, he became more interested in Thomas organization and the charity work she was doing.

She was very active and dedicated to the cause, and it caught my interest too, Tolbert said.

Thomas eventually became like a second mother to Tolbert, who would have been the same age as the son she lost to the sickle cell disease.

Thomas later asked Tolbert to become a board member for the organization in the 90s. He did and later became its president.

Tolbert said Thomas was on a mission to do the Lords work, which she continued throughout her life.

She had a bag with her Bible and she had another bag with her sickle cell material, so she was always passing the word on and active wherever she went, Tolbert said.

Johnny Ford first met Thomas in the 70s after he was elected mayor of Tuskegee. Ford has served as mayor, state representative and ambassador to the State of the African Diaspora. He currently serves as a city councilman for Tuskegee.

After meeting Thomas, he became one of the founding board members for her organization, and they worked side by side on a quest for health equity.

For so many years (Sarah Thomas) was the most outstanding spokesperson for sickle cell research and treatment in middle Alabama, Ford said.

Thomas was a founder of the sickle cell association in central Alabama, and as Mayor of Tuskegee, Ford supported her efforts along the way.

She will always be remembered as an outstanding pioneer in the fight to permanently find a cure for sickle cell anemia, which still afflicts the lives of so many, in particular African Americans, who live in this section of Alabama, Ford said.

Ford also described Thomas as a shining star in the fight for health equity in the area. He said hes carrying on the fight for health equity in her name.

As a child  sickle cell anemia runs in my family  I had the sickle cell trait, and as a child, it almost took my life, Ford said. So, I can give a personal testimony to how important the fight for health equity, as it relates to sickle cell anemia, was and still is.

Oline Price remembers meeting Thomas in the late 90s shortly after she became the Lee County revenue commissioner. Price said she remembers Thomas coming in to her office to ask a question about property taxes, and Thomas ended up sharing her story and talking about the work she was doing with sickle cell.

I thought this ladys a go getter. Shes not going to let any grass grow under her feet, Price said.

She and Thomas became close friends after that, and Price said she often participated in the events and programs that Thomas led.

You didnt want to disappoint her because she was so dedicated with what she did. If she took something on, she took it on to be for good and for it to be successful, Price said.

Price admired Thomas for her unwavering faith despite going through the hardship of losing a child.

She lived by her faith. She knew her faith was gonna carry her through and it did, Price said.

District 5 Lee County Commissioner Richard LaGrand was also a strong supporter and advocate for the organization Thomas led in the community. He often participated in Thomas fund raising events that spread awareness for sickle cell.

She was just a positive, powerful lady, a champion for sickle cell and a true friend to the community, LaGrand said.

He remembers meeting Thomas for the first time in the 70s. After hearing what she was doing in the community, LaGrand knew he wanted to get involved. He said they remained friends until she passed away.

Thomas children Gregory, Ronald and Maggie plan to continue sharing their mothers story. Maggie said there are so many things worth writing about their mother and they plan to keep her legacy alive by finishing a book about her life.

It has been a year since we have heard our mothers beautiful voice or felt her warm embrace. However, we continue to celebrate her amazing life, Maggie said. My brothers and I reminisce how she balanced her life as a woman of God, her love for family, church and community. She made excellence a standard and as a result. We are blessed to see inherited characteristics of our mother in our children.
This is a lot of information to digest in thirty seconds.

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Hurricane Gloria didn't break the porch swing, Monica did!

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CHANDLER AND MONICA ARE LIVING TOGETHER

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That Joe Rogan/Rock Post has possibly my 4th favorite comment of the year

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It looks like he's riding by on a bicycle!

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omfg the hot sauce one? lmaooo I never heard of that!

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i wish i could go back a few minutes and not read that one lol

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the Carribean visit leahtelajehta

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calling william "that" is so funny to me



Edited at 2022-07-11 12:14 am (UTC)

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Are we sure Grimes carried their second kid? I thought she had a surrogate.

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bless u op for reminding me about annalynne mccord's infamous poem, I can't believe I almost forgot!

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I wish I could forget it.

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if only i was your mother, you wouldnt have forgotten 

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The spotify/Joe Rogan already backtracked a bit cause Neil Young took his music and Crosby, Stills ,& Nash off. But while his music is still off, they agreed to put back CS&N catalogue back up.

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I mean.everyone here ended their Spotify accounts for a total of maybe 3 days so whatever.

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Yeah I know which is why I think all the proclamations about cancelling it were dumb.

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I was confused about the recent what does Spotify say is your Vecna song post because I thought we all canceled it (I did).

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I think it's afterward, like when the condom is being thrown out



i hope

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hot sauce in the hooch made me laugh harder than it had any right to

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omg Annalyne?! da fuck





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They still haven't announced it



I wonder if they're still waiting for the Astro World stuff to leave the public's consciousness and announce his name IS Astro

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At this point if that baby isn't called astro I'd be disappointed.



Also it probably will be in the next season of their hulu show

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Considering that piece of shit is still touring and selling out shows I'm pretty sure it left the "public's consciousness" a long time ago.

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I think its Astro

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It's probably Jacob, and I hate that I know that.

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Didn't Kanye and Julia party with Marilyn Manson too?

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Idk about the partying, but Kanye had Manson appear in one of his concerts after an arrest warrant was put out for him.

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INTERVIEW: Who was there last night?



FOX: Dave Chappelle, Marilyn Manson, Naomi Campbell, the actor from the new Batman, Camron, Jack Donoghue from Salem, Andrew Richardson from Richardson magazine, Richie Shazam, all my friends came. Richie ate sashimi with Marilyn Manson and they had a really nice heart-to-heart. Found what I was looking for. Julia did an interview about it. They had a movie night. https://www.interviewmagazine.com/culture/fox-news

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I thought the hot sauce condom thing was 1 or 2 years ago lmao, damn

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i came here to say the same thing lmao like surely that happened at the start of the pandemic

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aww I also missed the Ali Wong post...I recently watched her latest standup and this is so sad...I thought she and her hubby were so cute :(((((

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her material got old - I actually couldn't finish her last special. The whole slutty girlboss shtick and saying how much her husband sucks over and over again got really old. Everybody says she made those jokes "with love" and not seriously, but I always felt she dug a little too deep with some of things she said about her husband and now she's divorced lol

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I will admit the new special was meh for me, I only rly enjoyed her first special fully, but I assumed her husband was okay with the jokes, like she did mention he was smart af and she loved how he put her in her place when she was being unreasonable etc, only the third special was focused on him enjoying the money but I remember her mentioning that she goes through all the jokes with him, like he always struck me as someone confident in himself who wouldn't take any of it personally from the way she spoke about him so I thought they seemed cute and assured in their relationship because she can joke like that so this news is kinda sad but I guess you never really know what goes on behind the scenes lmao at least it's amicable apparently

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I can't wait for Ryan Murphy to give us FEUD Season 3: Elmo vs Rocco.

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Sarah Paulson coming for the Emmy with her portrayal as the misunderstood Rocco. Evan Peters being Evan Peters as Elmo.





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i don't blame you for posting this when you did but the academy just announced she's keeping her nomination but they're going after those who posted on social media, so... meh

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Booooo

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Not a dislike on you but the academy saying for her to keep her nomination when we all know that if Michelle Yeoh or Viola Davis did that shit, they would have been blackballed for years. White women be white womening and I wish more people realized that.

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going by these comments... clearly not

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actions have consequences.







https://ohnotheydidnt.livejournal.com/78611891.html im logging back off. sorry yall.actions have consequences.

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you doomed us 10 years ago lmfaooo

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This is all your fault

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GODDAMNIT SUPERTEX!

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Oh my god

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This is amazing. Going in my "No Fam, It Was I" ONTD Hall of Fame.

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this comment is iconic

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ten years of sleeper agent activity, eh? smh

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Who says Andrea came in at the last minute, she beat all of us!

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DAMN YOU!

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So it's you who unleashed this upon us.

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where's that gift of prophecy meme?

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tucker



We knew it first she has star written all over her imo -2013We knew it first

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I dont understand the issue here  like they lobbied and campaigned for people to watch and support their movie? ok?



And if they did a better job at doing that than other actors and films why is that a travesty?



this all reeks of studios getting prissy bc an independent film did a better job promoting and yall fell for it.



This shit happens all the time but its suddenly a huge controversy mmmkay

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Just hit the damn tags and read the posts about this. This has been explained ad nauseam

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girl I been reading and I am stumped

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That's exactly what it is lol. These awards have always been a popularity contest and people have used their relationships to campaign, but because she didn't have millions of studio dollars paying for it she's a monster

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how many times am i going to see a variation of this comment between now and march 12

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The Academy is upset because because the social media posts specifically mentioned her competition in the race, which is against the rules/unsportsmanlike, and there were messages targeted at academy members which was also against the rules (and which obviously can't be allowed or they would be overwhelmed by this type of thing). This is why they are going after the social media. It also looks like they threw parties for the academy members that didn't even have screenings, so it seems less about getting people watching the film? I'm not sure why no one is in trouble for this as it is also against the rules as it is tantamount to a bribe.



The general public though is upset because we are watching all of Hollywood come out of the woodwork to support a random white woman - they weren't even trying to get the film itself nominated or watched - in a way they have never rallied behind woc, and which likely resulted in a woc being locked out of the nominations. It also came across as really inauthentic because there was a lot of copy&paste social media posting. It doesn't seem like they even watched the movie themselves they just wanted to knock someone else out of the race.





People have complained in the past about gross campaigning or the obvious use of connections, and even just the Oscars nominating big stars or the movies they're in to try and get them to show up to the show for ratings. This one was just all over social media and therefore more noticable to outsiders.



As for the studios vs. indies - this most likely bumped Danielle's nomination for her performance in Till, another smaller film that has been working hard to get noticed the whole awards season. This isn't exactly David vs. Goliath.









Apologies for the wall of text but a lot of people are asking in this post and this is my understanding. Someone can correct me if I missed anything.

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I hear what you are saying. I'm been leading into "well she played the game the other way", but the more Im reading about this, you can see it has some problems - this campaign has been manipulation when you are saying please go for the underdog because the big names already have it secured, but give the underdog a chance, while of course its not true. You are breaking the rules when you included names of other performers and email them directly.

Do other people do it? 100%. Have they been caught? No.

There is a reason why actors, directors go to these screenings, probably to talk about nomination processes with one to one, because they simply can't call people or send emails to the whole branch and say "well give Andrea the first spot" (then you are breaking the rules)



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I dont get it as well. It sounds like fake outrage by media and publicists who are mad that somebody showed that you don't need a lot of money to run succesful campaign.

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I feel like we should've agreed on a scandal name for this



Personally I liked 'Risebought'

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I have no idea what this movie is about but lord knows I've heard about it nonstop lol

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Its about an alcoholic woman whose drinking alienated herself from her family particularly her son and even when people tried to help she relapsed. And then she got her act together and her life began to turnaround including an implied reconciliation with her son.



Groundbreaking.gif

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thats what gets me  all this over a movie with a her?.gif plot. I havent seen it but there is no way her acting is so exceptional as to rise above the formulaic serious actor-bait story.

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White woman going through it wearing no make-up





(i saw this somewhere else lol)

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https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/movies/movie-news/oscars-not-punishing-andrea-riseborough-best-actress-campaign-1235312816/



She's keeping her nomination.



CamillaMendesImshocked.gif



bootomatotomato.gif She's keeping her nomination.CamillaMendesImshocked.gifbootomatotomato.gif

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Predicable I was saying last week that Will got bounced for ten years over a personal beef that happened to occur on air while these people including the actress who helped fund these rule breaking antics would get nothing more than a scornful statement.



Mary M isnt in the Academy so they cant do anything to her and Allison will lay low until it blows over.

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This pisses me off so much

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Looks like she gets to keep her nomination which is unsurprising but super annoying.

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Mary McCormacks biz in this making me wish we still had Barbara Walters around.

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Watched For Leslie last night and she deserves the nomination

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Thank you for you objective opinion, Mary

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Is she that good if it made you forget the correct movie title 

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I'm truly baffled at why these ppl decided to go so hard for Riseborough. Like I get McCormick bc her husband's the director but you've got Winslet out here calling it the best female performance ever.

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Some of the supporters are people she's worked with so I get that but overall the support she got is unbelievable, especially when you look at other better-known actors who've famously have been snubbed and never won. Like where was the support for them lol??!?!?!?

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The intensity of which they're all reacting to the nomination review is also odd. They're treating her like some martyr but I just find all of it so embarrassing.

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like seriously what on earth did amy adams DO if this shit worked lol

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Has Kate Winslet ever seen a movie?

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People like feeling like theyve been able to find a hidden gem and will usually take the opportunity to champion what they see as a worthy underdog and at least based on the reviews, she gave a pretty impressive performance. Of course theyre going to feel better about signal boosting a performance in a little movie that got overlooked over a performance in a movie thats been widely recognized.

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Winslet and Riseborough are in an Oscar bait movie together next year called Lee. a biopic of WWII photographer Lee Miller with Winslet as Lee and Riseborough as a famous WWII journalist (i literally only know about this movie bc Andy Samberg and Josh O'Connor are going to be in it).



so basically Winslet and Riseborough are friends + Lee will be able to get a boost bc a recent Best Actress nominee and two Best Actress winners will be in it (Marion Cotillard is also in the film) + Riseborough has a higher profile and will campaign for Winslet next year too.



Edited at 2023-01-31 10:47 pm (UTC)

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I'm surprised anyone here would cap for her as much as they have tbh, is it just because she's a conduit to which they can minimize the actual struggles of WOC to get recognized? Like I don't get supporting her nom and acting like she's a victim when 2 Black women were ACTUALLY not nominated and 1 Asian woman's nom is being overshadowed by all this

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They don't really care about the racial aspect but do like the middle finger to the studio system or just wanna be contrarian. Even though Andrea's scheme almost makes the studio look fair-ish cause that last minute push was fuckery.

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Because theres nothing that she actually did that seems crazy out of bounds of a normal Oscar campaign.

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I mean she did toe the line and did overstep otherwise there wouldn't be an investigation, but when we discuss this whole situation we're not just talking about what is "fair" vis-a-vis the rules of an established institution, we're talking about the actual consequences. In this case it ended up sidelining two WOC candidates. You can talk about Ana and WMW all you want, but we can also talk about Andrea Riseborough, and we should, because if the only thing this astroturfing accomplishes is other white women getting acclaim over deserving WOC, this is not the kind of progress we ought to want or strive for.

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but but but it's the little indie that could!11!!!! david v goliath!!!11!11 they beat the studios are their own game by...being rich enough to pay PR firms to have a bunch of white actresses with clout rally all their friends to vote for her lmfao



Edited at 2023-01-31 10:25 pm (UTC)

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some of the defenders are our usual trolls



(embarrassed for the ones who arent tbh)

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It's been 22 years since a since a black woman won the Oscar to Best Lead actress, the first and only WOC to ever win it. This could have been an special year with 3/5 non white women nominated. Like what's not clicking??





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Idt it's too deep tbh, it's just some people really are that dumb.

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I'm not caping for her. It just seems like ya'll are acting like she is responsible for this fucked up system, and instead of being mad at the Oscar and thinking they should change the way campaigns work folks here are just mad at her? Like she is the problem and her losing her nomination would fix it.

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If Mary McCormack isn't even a member of the academy then what's the fuss?

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I think in this case it's probably Frances Fisher and her dumb comments about locks.

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From what I can tell Frances Fisher isn't even a member of the compaign so why would that be held against To Leslie.



So far the only thing that seems dodge is the Instagram post quoting the reviewer who mentions Andrea's performance in comparison to Cate Blanchett

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Yeah her social media post and the one from the official movies Instagram are probably worth sanctioning but people are acting like Andrea made the post herself or the one on the official Instagram had more than three likes.

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frances fisher gets fewer likes on her posts than i do, so who is she influencing? that's what i don't get here.



like obviously it's the number of famous people who campaigned for andrea, including cate in her own accetance speech that's fucking weird to me.



but to have frances fisher and some director's wife have a campaign like this actually work is wild to me.

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Several posts and comments have told yall what the fuss is over, I highly suggest reading them.

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She didn't even do anything wrong either lol. She could have had an identical get-together and just had people watch the movie at her place instead of at home before having an identical reception, and it would have followed the rules to the letter. She followed the spirit of the rules by asking them to watch it first

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unsurprised this was handled like ass and people are still acting obtuse about it and why others are annoyed but alas  Danielle and Viola deserved better and so does Michelle

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"Now, movies like To Leslie are an endangered species...close to extinction.



well, no, they're just on streaming. Also, how do we even know the people who she sent her email blast to even saw her movie? I thought most of the people were just like "Oh, okay, she's my friend of my agent's or w/e, let me put her in 1, knowing Michelle/Viola/Danielle are safe."

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I think that and the old white farts got scared and thought the non-whites were getting too much and this nice white lady has worked hard and bootstraps and all that and really the non whites need to work harder nothing should be easy for them you know?

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Streaming itself is not something thats going to be a financially viable format moving forward. Netflix has almost totally saturated the market and the other streaming services keep merging because its not worth it for anyone to subscribe to all of them.



Thats not even counting the fact that small indie movies are never going to be considered enough of a customer draw for streaming in the first place so they arent a dependable funding source.



Edited at 2023-01-31 10:29 pm (UTC)

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Seriously. Indie movies do fine in NY & LA and on streaming. This "marvel movies are destroying cinema!!!" Chicken Littling is really a bit much.

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I mean, I think it would be pretty depressing if it was no longer possible to see indie movies in theaters outside of NY or LA.



For the record, I'm not on board with how the To Leslie team conducted this campaign; I think they broke the rules. But on this one point, they're right that it's getting increasingly difficult to find funding to make smaller films because streaming is not a replacement for theatrical revenue and DVD sales. Streaming cannot save independent film; Disney+ lost $1.5 billion last year, Netflix has learned it can churn out cheap garbage and people will lap it up, and other platforms are consolidating and slashing budgets.



It's really dark!

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LOL Jesus what a comment. Obviously commenting from an NYC bubble.

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The quality of streaming movies is slowly changing but most movies that are only on streaming are studio rejects and not of the best quality.



There's definitely a lack of low to mid size budget movies at the cinema.

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"Also, how do we even know the people who she sent her email blast to even saw her movie?" That has been a problem with the academy and voters for decades now, where people just vote for whoever they know and don't watch shit.

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Time to manifest a win for Michelle Yeoh.



Split the white vote. Split the white vote. Split the white vote.

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i'm hoping that the enough of the ppl locked in for cate decide to swing the other way and vote for andrea out of spite that michelle yeoh takes it lmfao

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Me too!



Sidenote: Did you see the new TwiceXAllure video?

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This is what Im hoping happens now since they insisted on keeping her nomination lol

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I suppose a win is a win, but I'm saddened this fuckery could overshadow a Michelle Yeoh win.

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As much as I want Michelle Yeoh to win, at the same time I'm mad because if she does her win will be tainted by white people's fuckery. Just like when Moonlight won 

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You just KNOW the person in that Vanity Fair article who mentioned Viola is going to vote so hard for Michelle their pencil is going to go through the paper!

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Maybe I'm delusional but Idt this would overshadow Michelle's win. Yes, folks will talk about this fuckery but they'll also gladly ignore it on Oscar night in order to not make the sensitive actors uncomfortable. Andrea will walk the red carpet just fine, give her interviews and act all humble about how surprising her nom was, and people will probably meme the shit out of it. Meanwhile (hopefully) Michelle will look stunning, give a fantastic, heartfelt speech & make history as an Oscar winner. MUNNIFESTING THIS RN.

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Tiny South American nation of less than one million, Guyana has emerged as the latest drilling hotspot in South America, after decades where the regional oil industry was dominated by Venezuela and Brazil. While those countries are attracting considerable industry attention for a variety of reasons, it is the giant Vaca Muerta shale in Argentina which is shaping up as the continents hottest onshore oil boom. The 8.6-million-acre geological formation is estimated to contain 16 billion barrels of shale oil and 308 trillion cubic feet of shale gas, which are the second largest shale gas reserves globally. The Vaca Muerta has been compared to the prolific South Texas Eagle Ford shale. The government in Buenos Aires views the development of the Vaca Muertas hydrocarbon wealth as a silver bullet for Argentinas economic malaise.

The development of the Vaca Muerta continues to drive Argentinas oil production which has hit a series of record highs over the last year. According to government data Argentina pumped an average of 626,236 barrels of crude oil per day which was a notable 9% higher than for the same month a year earlier. It was marginally lower than Argentinas all-time record high of 631,103 barrels per day, recorded for March 2023. Growing shale oil production from the Vaca Muerta is responsible for this solid production growth. For May 2023, shale oil output was 302,117 barrels per day, which was an impressive 25% higher year over year and amounted to 48% of Argentinas total petroleum production compared to 42% for the same period a year earlier.

Economically crucial natural gas output is also soaring because of the development of the Vaca Muerta. For May 2023, Argentina pumped 4.8 billion cubic feet of natural gas, which while 4.6% greater than a month earlier was still lower than the all-time high of just under 5 billion cubic feet per day extracted during August 2023. It is rapidly growing shale gas production which is responsible for this solid expansion. For May 2023, shale gas output was 2.7 billion cubic feet per day representing an increase of 10% month over month and 3% year over year. As a result, shale gas for the month comprised 58% of total natural gas production compared to 55% a year earlier. Related: Oil Prices Set For A Monthly Gain But Yet Another Quarterly Loss

Production growth will continue at a solid clip with energy companies including national oil company YPF and foreign supermajors investing heavily in Argentina, particularly the Vaca Muerta. State-controlled energy company YPF plans to spend $5 billion on developing its operations during 2023, representing a significant 20% increase over 2022. YPF has allocated $3.6 billion of that budget to upstream operations with $2.3 billion earmarked for shale, 68% of which will go toward drilling activities and the remaining 32% to be spent on urgently needed infrastructure as well as other facilities.

Argentinas economic ministry in an early June 2023 statement said that U.S. energy supermajor Chevron, which has considerable experience developing unconventional oil assets, will invest more than $500 million in the Vaca Muerta. Chevron plans to spend that money developing the El Trapial Block in the west of the geological formation. The block, according to ministry data, contains proven reserves comprised of 12 million barrels of oil and 7.2 billion cubic feet of natural gas. There are also contingent resources of 194 million barrels of oil and 355 billion cubic feet or natural gas. Shell is another supermajor investing in the Vaca Muerta. According to a February 2023 statement from the government Shell has invested $2 billion in developing unconventional hydrocarbon resources in the formation.

Industry consultancy Rystad Energy issued a statement claiming that the Vaca Muerta could be pumping as much as 1 million barrels of crude oil daily by 2030, although that is contingent on infrastructure shortages being resolved. If production reaches 1 million barrels per day, then Argentina will emerge as one of Latin Americas largest oil producers, seeing the crisis riven overtake Colombia with the regions third largest hydrocarbon output. To address the constraints, including a lack of takeaway capacity, emerging in the Vaca Muerta due to a lack of infrastructure YPF has committed to a plan where it along with partners will spend up to $7 billion on various facilities including pipelines. CEO Pablo Iuliano in an April 2023 stated that YPF will provide 40% of that funding.

The Vaca Muerta will keep attracting considerable energy investment. The formation has some of the lowest breakeven costs for onshore South America, and they are progressively falling as more discoveries are made, oilfields are developed, and infrastructure is built out. A variety of numbers have been thrown around over the last three years with some analysts claiming that the Vaca Muerta has a breakeven price as high as $55 per barrel, whereas others claim it is far lower having fallen substantially since the pandemic.

According to industry consultancy McKinsey & Company the formation's technical breakeven is $36 per barrel and $1.54 per million cubic feet of natural gas. Those prices are comparable with U.S. shale formations and among the lowest for onshore operations in South America. The Vaca Muertas attraction is bolstered by high-quality reservoirs with superior well productivity compared to other shale deposits. McKinsey believes the formation's geology is comparable to the Permian Basin and superior to other U.S. shale formations in terms of reservoir pressure, thickness and organic content.

The oil produced from the Vaca Muerta has an average API gravity of 40 degrees and sulfur content of less than 0.5%, making it sweet and light. Those characteristics make the petroleum easier as well as cheaper to refine into high-quality gasoline without using complex refining techniques. There is a growing demand for lighter sweeter oil grades globally to meet ever stricter emissions standards for fuels. The carbon intensity associated with lifting oil in the Vaca Muerta is one of the lowest globally. This is becoming an increasingly important operational attribute in a world where there is an aggressive push to decarbonize the global economy and for big oil to make operations carbon neutral.

For these reasons, investment in the Vaca Muerta will continue growing despite the economic turmoil engulfing Argentina. That will not only give the countrys economy, export and balance of trade a healthy boost but bolster global supplies of light sweeter crude oil. Based on the ramping-up of activity in the Vaca Muerta and YPFs aggressive spending to develop oilfields and crucial infrastructure, Argentina will likely reach the 1 million barrels per day of production predicted by Rystad.

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The Philippine Supreme Court has issued a so-called "writ of kalikasan" ("writ of nature") against Altai Philippines Mining Corporation (APMC), the Philippine Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and its Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) over the controversial nickel mining operations on Sibuyan Island.

The high court's notice, dated June 13, followed a petition by local residents affected by the mining operations in the area last February.

According to local media, Living Laudato Si executive director Rodne Galicha stated in a tweet that the Supreme Court "[r]emanded [the case] to the Court of Appeals" and the respondents are required to provide their arguments within 10 days.

In addition, the high court has denied the residents' request for a temporary environmental protection order (TEPO).

Galicha also urged researchers and scientists across the world "who studied the unique geology and biodiversity" of Sibuyan to continue sending their testimonies to Philippine authorities.

"Sibuyan Island's fate in the hands of exploiters will not only affect the island's fragile ecology but also that of global biodiversity systems due to [the] presence of many endangered flora and fauna both discovered and yet to be discovered and documented," he added.

A "writ of nature" is a legal remedy protecting the right of Filipinos to a "balanced and healthful ecology in accord with the rhythm and harmony of nature," pursuant to the Philippine Constitution.

Philippine attorney-general Jesus Crispin Remulla earlier described the writ as a special civic action urging respondents to "do something" about nature or repair environmental damage.

Read Also: Guam to Hire 10,000-15,000 Filipino Workers for Military Base Construction

Rumble in Romblon

Sibuyan is one of three major islands in the province of Romblon. It was called the "Galapagos of Asia" for its rich biological and environmental value.

In late January, Altai led a mining exploration and operation in two sizable parcels of land on the island, with plans to export 50,000 metric tons of nickel ore for testing overseas.

In response, environmentalists and residents of the island protested the mining activities. Protesters said the company's operations were illegal, citing Altai's lack of necessary permits to conduct mining operations in the area. Two people were also hurt in February after residents set up a human barricade in an attempt to stall the digging. The company was adamant in saying its operations were lawful.

A few days after the incident, the APMC voluntarily suspended all mining exploration and testing operations on the island. The DENR also issued a cease-and-desist order against APMC, halting its activities in the area.

Despite the Supreme Court denying the residents' TEPO request, Galicha said the retention of DENR's cease-and-desist order remains to be a huge win.

"Though [the] TEPO prayer has been denied, it cannot be denied that DENR's cease-and-desist order is still in force," Galicha explained. "The issuance of the writ [of nature] is a significant step to secure and protect one of the country's last ecological frontiers, Sibuyan Island, and its communities."

CNN's Philippine affiliate is yet to hear from the respondents regarding the writ.

Related Article: NASA Puts the Brakes on Lithium Mining at Site Used to Calibrate Satellites

@ 2023 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
NASA and the European Space Agency (ESA) are teaming up to explore one of the biggest puzzles of the Universe: dark energy.

A new space telescope, Euclid, which will explore the dark Universe, is launching in July on a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket from Cape Canaveral in Florida. With an important contribution from NASA, the ESA mission will look into why the Universe is expanding, a still unknown phenomenon that scientists have dubbed "dark energy."

Currently, more is unknown than known about dark energy. Scientists know how much dark energy there is because they know how it affects the Universe's expansion.

Everything else about dark energy is a complete mystery, NASA says.

But the mystery is huge, and a first step to solving it could be the beginning of understanding at least a fraction of the Universe. Dark energy makes up 68% of the Universe. Another 27% is made up of dark matter. And only 5% is the resteverything on Earth and everything ever observed by scientists with all of their instruments.

So NASA and the ESA are joining forces to try to shed some light on one of the Universe's greatest mysteries.

Scientists are unsure whether the universe's accelerated expansion is caused by an additional energy component, or whether it signals that the current understanding of gravity needs to be changed in some way.

By May 2027, NASA's Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope will join ESA's mission Euclid to explore this puzzle in ways that have never been possible before. NASA's Roman and ESA's Euclid will be used by astronomers to test the two theories about dark energy at the same time.

"Twenty-five years after its discovery, the universe's accelerated expansion remains one of the most pressing mysteries in astrophysics," said Jason Rhodes, a senior research scientist at NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Southern California. Rhodes is also a deputy project scientist for Roman and the U.S. science lead for Euclid.

"With these upcoming telescopes, we will measure dark energy in different ways and with far more precision than previously achievable, opening up a new era of exploration into this mystery."

There are different theories about dark energy. One explanation is that it is a property of space. Another is that it is a new kind of dynamical energy fluid or field, something that fills all of space but something whose effect on the expansion of the Universe is the opposite of that of matter and normal energy.

Another possible explanation could be that Albert Einstein's theory of gravity is incorrect.

"The thing that is needed to decide between dark energy possibilities - a property of space, a new dynamic fluid, or a new theory of gravity - is more data, better data," NASA says.

So, NASA and ESA hope that their Euclid and Roman missions, which will map parts of the Universe, could be the beginning of understanding the dark energy mystery.

The Euclid space telescope will create a map of the large-scale structure of the Universe across space and time by observing billions of galaxies out to 10 billion light-years across more than a third of the sky. Euclid will explore how the Universe has expanded and how structure has formed over cosmic history, revealing more about the role of gravity and the nature of dark energy and dark matter.

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"Together, Euclid and Roman will add up to much more than the sum of their parts," said Yun Wang, a senior research scientist at Caltech/IPAC in Pasadena, California, who has led galaxy clustering science groups for both Euclid and Roman.

"Combining their observations will give astronomers a better sense of what's actually going on in the universe."

By Tsvetana Paraskova for Oilprice.com

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Vladimir Putin invades Ukraine and saber-rattles about nuclear weapons. Xi Jinping says he wants his military to be ready to invade Taiwan by 2027.

Then there's Iran and North Korea. Both implacably dislike the U.S. and are formidably armed. You see, then, why I think defense stocks are timely now. In my model portfolio (the stocks I own for most clients), three of the 25 slots are currently reserved for defense stocks.

Here's a look at those three, and three more I think are promising.

General Dynamics

General Dynamics Corp.

(GD) is one of the most diverse of the defense contractors, producing tanks, nuclear submarines, destroyers, armored personnel carriers and military electronics. In my opinion, it's also one of the best run.

One thing I look for in a company is the ability to earn a 15% return on stockholders' equity, fairly consistently. General Dynamics has done that 10n years in a row, and in 14 of the past 15 years.

As a sideline, General Dynamics makes Gulfstream business jets. The COVID pandemic gave this segment a boost by making commercial flights less attractive.

Northrop Grumman

With sales of about $37 billion a year, Northrop Grumman Corp. (NOC)is one of the largest defense contractors in the world. It has a broad product line, including missiles, drones, satellites, stealth bombers, and a variety of aircraft parts.

It has achieved a 20% return on equity or better nine years in a row. The figure for the past four quarters was 33%. Given all that, you might expect the stock to be expensive, but it's not too bad, at 20 times estimated earnings.

Analysts expect that earnings will go down this year. The reasons are complicated, but one element is that Congress is under pressure to cut spending, perhaps including military spending.

I think defense cuts will be debated, but not passed, given the palpable threats from Russia, China, North Korea and Iran.

Lockheed Martin

The proprietor of the famous Skunk Works in Palmdale, California, where many top-secret defense projects are developed, is Lockheed Martin Corp. (LMT). Lockheed is the largest U.S. defense contract , with annual revenue of about $66 billion.

Lockheed's profitability over the years has been astounding. I consider a return on equity of 20% or more to be outstanding. Lockheed has been above 50% at least 15 years in a row.

That profitability figure was magnified by the use of debt. Lockheed currently has debt equal to 162% of stockholders' equity, which is more than I would normally accept. However, given the consistently powerful profit performance, I think the debt load is acceptable.

Ducommun

A small stock I like is Ducommun Inc. (DCO) of Santa Ana, California, which makes aerospace components for Boeing Co. and others. It is about 67% military and 33% civilian. Revenue in the past four quarters was about $730 million  far smaller than the other stocks mentioned today.

At the recent price of $44, Ducommun shares go for just about book value (corporate net worth per share), and 0.75 times revenue. That's bargain territory in my book.

Only four Wall Street analysts cover this small company. (Three call it a "buy.") But some big-name investment managers own it (as of March 31 filings). They include Chuck Royce, Jeremy Grantham, Jim Simons and Mario Gabelli  or at least their firms.

Leonardo

The largest defense contractor in Italy is Leonardo S.p.A., headquartered in Rome. The Italian government owns about 30% of the company. It makes helicopters, aircraft, aircraft parts and military electronics.

Past profits have been erratic, but I like the stock for two reasons. First, I believe that European countries will be forced (mainly by the threat of Russia) to increase their defense spending. Second, Leonardo's stock is quite cheap at seven times the past four quarters' earnings.

BAE Systems

The largest defense company in Great Britain is London-based BAE Systems Plc (traded in the U.S. as BAESY). At 18 times recent earnings, it's not as cheap as Leonardo, but its profit record is more consistent. BAE has achieved a 20% return on equity or better in 11 of the past 15 years.

BAE stock has doubled in the past three years, but it made no net progress in the seven years preceding that. Fighter jets are the company's specialty. Beyond Britain, it has substantial sales to the U.S. and Australia.

Disclosure: I own General Dynamics, Lockheed and Ducommun personally and for most of my clients.

John Dorfman is chairman of Dorfman Value Investments in Newton Upper Falls, Massachusetts. His firm or clients may own or trade the stocks discussed here. He can be reached at jdorfman@ dorfmanvalue.com.
Skoumal Promoted to Senior Vice President of Commercial Property Management Cushman & Wakefield/The Lund Company is proud to promote Jennifer Skoumal to Senior Vice President of Commercial Property Management. Jennifer will be responsible for the overall operations and financial performance of The Lund Company's commercial property management division. In addition, Jennifer plays a key role in the internal leadership of The Lund Company by strategically planning, expanding and securing new business; meeting or exceeding project projections; ensuring client satisfaction; developing processes and procedures; and is dedicated to overseeing a team of commercial portfolio managers, facilities managers, service and customer care departments. "I am extremely proud to have Jennifer as part of the Lund team and look forward to her success in the oversight of our commercial property management department. Her unwavering loyalty, determination and exceptional leadership skills have propelled her to this milestone, and she is very deserving of this promotion" said Tanya Shapiro, President of The Lund Company. Jennifer joined The Lund Company in 2012. As an Asset Manager she was responsible for the asset management of office and retail properties within The Lund Company's portfolio. With more than 20 years of experience and leadership in real estate, Jennifer has extensive experience developing and maintaining relationships with internal and external customers, leading customer service, sales and marketing teams and developing/managing operational budgets. Jennifer earned a Bachelor of Science degree from Bellevue University with an emphasis on Management of Human Resources. She is a licensed Real Estate Broker in Nebraska. She has served as a board member for several Sanitary Improvement Districts and Homeowner Associations throughout the Omaha Metro.
Swanson Russell Wins 18 Honors at 2023 AMA Lincoln Prism Awards Swanson Russell received 18 honors at the American Marketing Association (AMA) Lincoln chapter's 2023 Prism Awards. The annual show celebrates outstanding marketing and communications in the Lincoln community with a special focus on objectives and results. AMA Lincoln selects another AMA chapter to review award submissions. Judges evaluate each entry in four areas: Challenges and Objectives; Strategy and Tactics, Results and Campaign Elements. Each entry receives a point total which determines whether it receives a Prism award or Sterling award. Swanson Russell's award-winning clients and campaigns are as follows: PRISM AWARDS: Koch Agronomic Services "That's Farming" Campaign - Consumer Marketing Campaign Large Business Madonna Rehabilitation Hospitals "Grand Opening" Campaign - Consumer Marketing Campaign Non-Profit Humminbird TargetLock Product Launch - Product Launch Large Business JLG Rotating Telehandler Microsite - Landing Page Large Business (tie with Kimber Rapide) Kimber Rapide Landing Page - Landing Page Large Business (tie with JLG Rotating Telehandler) Humminbird TargetLock Pre-Roll - Digital TV Large Business UBT College Savings Group: NEST Mascot Naming Contest - Out-of-Home Large Business Humminbird TargetLock Digital Ads - Digital Ads Large Business Textron Aviation 2022 NBAA Experience - Trade Show Large Business Profile EVS Contractor Video - Long-Form Video Large Business Koch Agronomic Services "That's Farming" Video - Short-Form Video Large Business STERLING AWARDS: Rain Bird "Higher Standard" Campaign - B2B Marketing Campaign - Large Business JLG "Rotating Telehandler" Campaign - Product Launch - Large Business Minn Kota 2022 Buying Guide - 3-Dimension Piece - Large Business Kimber Rapide Digital Ads - Digital Ads - Large Business Humminbird Saltwater Catalog - Digital Media - Large Business Textron Aviation 2022 EAA Airventure Experience - Trade Show Large Business JLG Rotating Telehandler Hype Video - Short-Form Video Large Business "It's an honor to be recognized by AMA Lincoln," said Brent Schott, CEO of Swanson Russell. "These awards represent a great cross section of the industries we specialize in." The Lincoln AMA chapter serves as a resource for Lincoln-area marketers to learn, grow and connect through opportunities that promote education and marketing excellence. Learn more at amalincoln.org. About Swanson Russell Swanson Russell is the nation's leading advertising, branding and public relations agency for brands that work and play outdoors. Based in Lincoln and Omaha, Nebraska, the agency is on a mission to help brands Make Belief. Their approach to uncovering a brand's reality drives creative thinking and helps build trust with audiences everywhere. Visit swansonrussell.com for more information.
Seward County routinely seizes money from motorists on Interstate 80, keeps the cash  and never convicts the drivers of a crime.

The countys sheriffs office and county attorney use this practice, known as civil asset forfeiture, so often that a third of all cases of this kind in Nebraska state courts come from Seward County, population 17,962, a Flatwater Free Press analysis of court records shows.

The county has hauled in $7.5 million in forfeited cash in the past five years, some of it from civil forfeitures that state lawmakers thought they banned in 2016.

In Seward County, nearly all civil forfeitures begin when a deputy stops an out-of-state driver on the countys 24-mile stretch of Interstate 80. Much of this money ends up in law enforcement hands, after drivers  faced with a split-second choice between money or jail  often sign a form and abandon their cash.

Many in law enforcement say civil forfeiture is an important tool to take money out of criminal hands.

The point is that were trying to dismantle these criminal organizations  if you take their money, youre crippling their ability to conduct their criminal activity, said Amy Blackburn, an assistant U.S. attorney.

Some defense attorneys and advocates say civil asset forfeiture is little more than a law enforcement money grab. The practice allows police and prosecutors to go after individuals who may not have done anything wrong, they say.

Citizens can have their property taken from them without ever being accused of a crime, or convicted of a crime, and that is simply not our American system of justice, said Louis Rulli, a University of Pennsylvania law professor.

Christopher Bouldin, pulled over in August 2020 for following too closely, didnt know anything about civil asset forfeiture when he stood with his dog on the westbound shoulder of I-80. Seward County sheriffs deputies had just searched his rental van, finding no drugs or guns, but locating $18,000 in cash rolled in a blue sleeping bag.

They alleged it was drug money. He argued that it was for his trip to Colorado  he was driving west from Virginia  and for the potential purchase of a car.

Deputies zipped the cash in an evidence bag and then produced an abandonment form. They gave him a choice, Bouldin said.

Sign this form, give up the cash and continue toward Colorado. Dont sign, and youre subject to felony charges.

I cant believe Im getting robbed, Bouldin said he remembers thinking.

In the past decade, Seward has seized money in at least 90 state civil forfeiture cases, nearly double any other Nebraska county. In those cases, they initially seized a total of $2.2 million from motorists. (Other cases are tied to partnerships with federal law enforcement, while still others result in criminal charges, often when guns and drugs are also located.)

The $2 million eventually kept by the county was split, half to a state schools fund and half to a county law enforcement fund.

That fund bought stun guns and bulletproof vests for the Seward and Milford Police Departments, a sheriffs cruiser and an $18,000 drone for the Nebraska State Patrol. It recently spent $15,000 on two ballistic shields after the school shooting in Uvalde, Texas.

The highway seizures that net this money often start when a Seward County deputy alleges a traffic violation  speeding, improperly changing lanes, or like Bouldin, following too closely.

The deputy then asks the stopped driver basic questions. Where are you headed? What do you plan to do there?Deputies note if the person seems nervous, how much luggage they have and if the vehicle smells of drugs.

Theyre looking for indicators of criminal activity, said Seward County Sheriff Mike Vance.

Sometimes, you ask them where theyre headed to, they dont know  they borrowed the car, they dont know the name of the person who owns the car. Things like that will raise flags, he said.

Defense attorneys and advocates argue those indicators can be weak. One case in Seward County cited a large amount of fast food wrappers in the vehicle as an indicator. Another cited a six pack of Red Bull energy drinks.

What theyre really describing is totally innocuous things that lots of people do, said Dan Alban, senior attorney with the Institute for Justice.

A controversial form

In the past decade, 75% of Seward Countys state civil forfeiture cases happened after a driver signed a form similar to the one Bouldin was handed, according to the Flatwater Free Press analysis.

These abandonment forms are constitutionally questionable, critics say. In the Omaha area, the Douglas County Sheriffs Office no longer uses them. Five states, including Wyoming, have banned them.

They have to decide right then and there: Do they want to  risk being prosecuted for a felony? said Daniel Stockmann, a Nebraska defense attorney who specializes in interstate drug cases. I think a lot of people make the decision on the fly to just abandon the money and move on.

Wendy Elston, Seward County attorney, said that a motorist who signs an abandonment form is given a court date where they can fight to get their money back.

I just look at it as a piece of evidence, she said. Its just a piece of paper to me, its not determinative.

But it may not look that way to a driver signing the form on I-80.

One version of the Seward County form says a person must abandon all claims to the above-described merchandise, and waive any further rights or proceedings.

This can confuse motorists, Rulli said.

How many motorists never challenge it, never go to court, because theyve signed a document giving up their right to contest and go to court? he said.

Vance disputes the idea that Seward County uses the form as a pressure tactic. Drivers often readily admit guilt, even before the form is introduced, he said.

In 2016, a man pulled over with $14,000 told deputies: I know youre going to take the money and let me go, so just get it done. Ive been through this with Homeland Security before, so just give me the disclaimer, according to court records.

Losing cash in exchange for avoiding a felony is the cost of doing business for some of these drug dealers, said Joe Jeanette, a University of Nebraska at Omaha criminal justice professor.

Other Seward County court records show that sometimes the form startles motorists  and sometimes they claim feeling pressured to sign.

One driver said he signed an abandonment form out of fear, when deputies brought up Homeland Security and possible felony charges in 2015. He later fought for the seized $10,400 in court. Another, arrested for drug money in January 2022, said prosecutors told his lawyer that if he abandoned the money, the criminal case would go away.

In August 2020, Bouldin refused to sign the abandonment form as he stood on the shoulder of I-80.

The Seward County deputies didnt arrest him, as they had said they might. But they did seize his cash while charging him with a misdemeanor for possessing drug money  charges that were later dropped.

The county attorney continued with the seizure in civil court to keep the $18,000. Bouldin received only a warning for a traffic violation.

A loophole the size of Seward County

Less than 3 miles off the Interstate sit two aluminum buildings surrounded by corn and soybean fields. This is headquarters for Sewards interdiction task force, where it trains K-9 units for counties throughout Nebraska and stores specialized equipment and seized cars.

Last year, using forfeiture funds, the department bought the building for $806,000.

Sewards history with highway seizures goes back to 2004, when county leaders asked former Sheriff Joe Yocum to look for new revenue.

He learned about highway interdiction. He knew Seward County is bisected by I-80.

That there was an opportunity, Yocum said.

Seward deputies have since regularly seized pounds of drugs, stolen guns and vacuum-sealed stacks of cash. Theyve rescued human trafficking victims, Vance said, and pulled over murder suspects.

But they also encounter drivers like Bouldin  drivers with no drugs but cash that deputies then seize.

Its patently wrong when you take peoples assets without charging them (with) a crime, said former state Sen. Tommy Garrett. If law enforcement is doing their job, and really think that this is drug-related, then by God, they should charge the person and convict the person.In 2016, Garrett, a Republican from Bellevue, passed a law that he, other state senators and civil liberties advocates believed abolished civil asset forfeiture. The bills statement of intent said it required a criminal conviction to seize money.

But the Legislature left two loopholes. Seizures over $25,000 could circumvent state law by being adopted into federal court.

And law enforcement could still seize assets under state law if evidence connected the cash to drugs  even if there were no drugs present.

That allowance, unnoticed by bill supporters, left an opening for Nebraska police to continue with civil forfeiture, said Lee McGrath, senior legislative counsel for the Institute for Justice.

Its the legal tactic that Seward County now uses far more often than any other Nebraska county.

Its absolutely frustrating, said Laura Ebke, a Libertarian and ex-senator who sat on the Judiciary Committee in 2016. To think that we got part way there, and then missed it because of this one little loophole.

Seward Countys use of civil asset forfeiture has grown since Vance was elected sheriff in 2018.

Seward joined a new Department of Homeland Security task force focused on spotting crime on Interstates and highways.

In 2021 alone, Seward County seized a combined $2.3 million through civil forfeiture in state and federal court, according to a report to the state auditor.

On a single September 2022 morning in the Seward County Courthouse, Judge James Stecker approved the civil forfeiture of $83,187 from five separate cases, all from people not convicted of a crime.

We return very little money because we make very good cases, said Blake Swicord, coordinator of the Seward-based Homeland Security task force. If its not rock solid, were not going to take it.

Money seized by civil forfeiture in Seward County is also rarely returned because its difficult and costly to fight.

If someone tries, the burden of proof shifts to them, not the state. Because the case is civil, theres no right to a public defender.

Bouldin fought, maybe harder than anyone ever stopped in Seward County.

He contested the decision in District Court and lost. He spent an additional $3,500 on a lawyer. He appealed all the way to the Nebraska Supreme Court. He lost again. Seward County kept the money.

I was just angry, Bouldin said about learning hed lost the $18,000 for good. Imagine a volcano erupting, thats how I felt.

Our best Omaha staff photos & videos of June 2023
Dundee was distinctive from the rest.

Unlike Florence, Benson and South Omaha, suburbs that Omaha annexed in the 1910s, Dundee was dry.

No saloons. No liquor sales.

Dundee Place will have no saloons to annoy and molest the quiet and home-like appearance of things, proclaimed a real estate ad in 1889.

There was no liquor sold on the main street  Underwood Avenue  until 1956. And that establishment, Trovatos, overcame a fire the week it opened.

Dodge Street also was off-limits to such establishments, with Prohibition assisting the ban. The first cocktails sold in the neighborhood were at the Dundee Delicatessen in 1934.

Such restrictions were spelled out in the deeds for the land obtained from John Nelson Hayes Patrick and his wife, Eliza. Their 800-acre Happy Hollow estate encompassed the area from 48th to 69th Streets, Dodge to Hamilton Streets.

Dundee Place was a borrowed name. Frank L. Underwood of Kansas City used the name of a Scottish town for a subdivision in 1882. The builder of K.C.s Metropolitan Cable Railway sought to duplicate his success upstream on the Missouri. He and two associates bought 615 acres from the Patricks for $1,000 an acre, with a $400,000, four-year mortgage, and asked the city of Omaha for a street railway franchise.

Less Than Thirty Minutes By Cable was the tout in the first ads for Dundee Place. Barring legal delays, within 18 months a cable railway using new Underwood Avenue would be operating to downtown. A hollow promise. Not a Happy Hollow one, either.

Grading of the first blocks, on the easternmost 125 acres, began in July 1888 with 50 to 60 teams of men and horses. Streets and sidewalks were laid out in the Detroit plan, with miniature parks on each side of the street.

Five housing starts were underway by September and three more were in the offing. Houses had to cost $2,500 to build. No businesses, including livery stables and saloons anywhere, would be allowed except on Dodge Street and Underwood Avenue.

Economic conditions and lawsuits nearly made Dundee a mere memory. Its development came at the wrong time.

Land prices were inflated in 1887, when more than 100 housing additions were proposed for Omaha. The bubble burst during a recession that started in 1890. It took too long for the Metropolitan Street Railway Co. to get financing. It finally made its first run from 40th and Farnam Streets was June 4, 1891.

In July 1892, Frank Underwood bought out the Patrick Land Co. for $100,000. The houses in Dundee Place were said to a great extent left vacant and others not completed.

Three months later, Eliza Patrick sued the Patrick Land Co. for $228,000 outstanding on the mortgage. She lost. The case went on for seven years, with the U.S. Supreme Court in October 1899 declining a request for a writ of certiorari to the Eighth District Court of Appeals in St. Louis. The lower court reversed the judgement of $41,548 awarded to her by a Colorado district court.

The Patricks wound up owning the Metropolitan Street Railway on a $40,000 bid at auction. They kept the railway, running little electric cars from 40th and Farnam, until selling to a primary stockholder of the citys Omaha Street Railway Co.

They also began buying back Dundee Place over the next two years. Both actions triggered new growth.

A school was built in 1891 which also served as the town meeting place and concert hall. Utilities were installed. But the residents wanted more improvements. Incorporation as a village was sought.

In November 1894 Patrick presented the County Board with a petition containing 59 signers. He said there were 215 taxpayers, 15 over the minimum needed for incorporation, in Dundee Place and adjacent Carthage Place (platted northwest of 48th and Burt Streets in 1886).

The two subdivisions were granted village status a month later as Dundee Place. Corporate limits were 48th Street on the east, Hamilton Street on the north, Nevada Street (51st Street) on the west to Underwood, then along Wilson Street (52nd Street) to Dodge, the southern boundary.

The first village board of trustees consisted of Patrick, D.L. Johnson, Walter L. Selby, John B. Carmichael and E.R. Hume.

Selby and Carmichael were said to have supervised the planting of 1,500 maple trees in 1895, when the sidewalks were being graded. Every house at that time was occupied.

Dundee definitely was the desired residential-only community. It slowly accepted businesses.

Sometime in the early 1890s, Patrick Land Co. president W.H. Craig started a brick building on the southwest corner of 50th Street and Underwood but didnt get past framing and roofing. The building became dilapidated and caused some residents to believe it was haunted.

John H. Harte bought the building in 1901 and named it the Harte block. His first recorded tenant was H.H. Bliss grocery, the villages first, that opened in 1905. Bliss sold to E. Clifford Schonborn in 1907.

That year, Happy Hollow Club was formed on what remained of the Patrick estate. It remained, temperance in place, until relocating to its present home at 105th and Pacific Streets in 1924.

The first two stages of the Happy Hollow subdivision, before Dundee annexation, were platted in 1910 and 1914 between 52nd Street and the new Happy Hollow Boulevard.

A fire destroyed the Harte block and a one-story frame building on July 2, 1911. Businesses affected were the J.P. Eskildson and C.R. Maxwell Dundee Grocery and meat market, Sam Ferranto shoe repair shop, C.R. Dodds plumbing shop, Irving Hadlock barber shop and the Beck bakery.

The only two businesses untouched were the pharmacy on the southeast corner and the new Dundee Advertiser weekly newspaper.

Harte rebuilt at 5001 Underwood Ave. And it was said that no other businesses would be allowed to set foot in the sacred confines.

Louis Sommer broke through the old covenants when he opened a grocery at 4822 Dodge St. Hinterlong Drugs and a post office branch also were in the building.

The 1915 Omaha directory, the first to include Dundee after its annexation, showed the Potter & Holmes bakery, Sherman & McConnell drug store and the Dundee Garage on Dodge Street.

On Underwood were L.P. Deutschs grocery, the new Dundee firehouse, Dundee Pharmacy, Dundee Presbyterian, Samuel Reynolds grocery (the Harte building) and Tony Costanzo shoe repair.

Annexation came against Dundee wishes. The village had no chance of independence. The special election included Omaha voters, who gave 95% support. In Dundee, only 79 of 380 votes were for it.

With the covenants null, new businesses made their home on Underwood and Dodge. No saloons yet, but the first Dundee Theater.

A.C. Hartman built a 410-seat movie house at 5019 Underwood that opened in June 1916. Among the theaters features was a high-end ventilation system in the days before air conditioning.

The original Dundee Theater made it six months before closing. It reopened under community management. A review committee approved the films shown. The theater was dark on Sundays and Wednesdays.

While Hartman didnt make a go of it the first time, he was among the incorporators in 1925 of the Dundee Theater at 4952 Dodge St., the one that lasted and is now operated by Film Streams.

Back at the Harte Block, Ernest Buffett moved the family grocery from downtown in 1915. When he built a new store down the street at 5015 Underwood in 1922, Baum & Barnes pharmacy filled the vacancy. Carl S. Baum bought out his partner in 1931 and remained one of Dundees anchors, soda fountain included, until closing in 2005.

The Dundee Manor extended-stay hotel (1943-1953) was one of the many businesses in the two-story Tutor style building on the northwest corner of 49th and Dodge that opened in 1927. The original owners of Hillcrest were Nick Petrow, he of the Fremont and Omaha confectioners and restaurateurs, and Mitchell Giannou. They operated the Sunset Tea Room.

By 1934, there were Hinky Dinky grocery stores on Dodge and Underwood. Next to Buffetts grocery was the Underwood Barber Shop owned by John Pestal Sr., which he passed down to son John Jr. for nearly 75 years of continuous clipping.

Dundee Presbyterians first home was in 1901 at the 1892 schoolhouses at 4908 California St. The congregation bought the former Calvary Baptist Church building at 26th and Franklin Streets and had it moved in 1902 for its new home. A brick veneer was applied in 1909. A new church at Underwood and Happy Hollow Boulevard was dedicated in 1928.

Dundee School has been at 51st and Davenport Streets since 1903, when the original six-classroom building welcomed students. Not large enough. Kindergartners went to the Dundee Hall next to the Harte block and first graders to the firehouse before the school was added on in 1915 and 1919. Actor Henry Fonda was a student in the intermediate grades.

Those are neighborhood cornerstones. So is the Dundee Dell.

William Herzoff opened his Dundee Delicatessen in 1930 at 112 N. 50th St. After the 18th Amendment was repealed in 1933, Herzoff relocated to a better location at 4964 Dodge St. and added a cocktail lounge.

By the late 1930s, Herzoff opened the Pine Room on the second floor and renamed his place. He sold the Dundee Dell to the Cohen family in 1940. Neill Everitt operated it from 1962 to 1989, followed by Pat Gobel and Kirk Anderson. They relocated the Dell to 5007 Underwood in 2000 and owned it until 2016, when they sold to Greg Lindberg.

The pandemic almost claimed the Dell, as it closed in 2020. Local investors reopened it after a year.

Isnt it ironic, though, the Dell on Underwood? No one from 1894 would have raised a glass to it.
LINCOLN  Nebraska signed a multibillion-dollar contract with a managed care giant this year despite the company paying nearly $1 billion nationally to settle concerns about pharmacy overbilling practices.

Those payments include a $29.3 million settlement with the State of Nebraska. Then-Attorney General Doug Peterson and officials with Centene Corp. signed the settlement agreement on Dec. 29, 2021.

Nine months later, the state Medicaid director announced that Nebraska Total Care, a Centene subsidiary, would be one of three firms awarded a Medicaid managed care contract. Each contract is worth up to $4.25 billion for 2024 through 2029, with three optional extension years worth up to $850 million each.

The three contractors will be responsible for managing physical and behavioral health care, pharmacy services and dental benefits for almost all Medicaid patients. Together, they will oversee the care of some 347,000 low-income Nebraskans.

Its unclear what state Medicaid officials knew about Centenes Nebraska settlement when they awarded the contracts.

The Attorney Generals Office did not make the settlement public until Oct. 26 last year, one month after the contract awards were announced and 10 months after the agreement was signed. Even then, the office simply posted a link to the settlement document, without a press release or other announcement.

Still, the settlement went public before the Department of Health and Human Services actually signed the contract with Nebraska Total Care on Jan. 24.

HHS and the Attorney Generals Office both refused to answer any questions about the Centene settlement or the contract awards, citing pending litigation.

The litigation in question was filed by Community Care Plan of Nebraska, doing business as Healthy Blue. The company filed the suit in December of last year after being shut out for the new contracts and losing two rounds of administrative protests.

Healthy Blue currently has a Medicaid managed care contract with the state that ends Dec. 31. The other current contractors are Nebraska Total Care and United HealthCare of the Midlands, both of which won new contracts.

In its suit, Healthy Blue contends, among other things, that Centenes bid should have been disqualified because the company did not disclose the Nebraska settlement or other state investigations into prescription benefit overcharging.

At least 18 states have settled with the St. Louis-based managed care company over its pharmacy benefits practices in the last two years. The first was Ohio, where State Attorney General Dave Yost filed suit against the company following state investigations.

According to the Ohio Dispatch, Yost alleged that Centene had sought payment for services that had already been reimbursed, failed to disclose the true costs of pharmacy services, including discounts, and artificially inflated dispensing fees. The company ended up agreeing to pay $88.3 million to settle the case in June 2021.

At the same time, Centene agreed to pay $55 million to Mississippi, which was investigating similar allegations, and set aside $1.1 billion for settlements with other states.

Settlement agreements so far have included $215 million for California, $165.6 million for Texas, $26.7 million for Kansas and $44 million for Iowa, where a state investigation and audit found irregularities in the companys reporting of costs of pharmacy benefits to Medicaid.

Nebraska officials refused to say what investigations had been done leading up to the settlement here. But the agreement made reference to the state reviewing the operations of Total Care and its pharmacy benefits manager, Envolve.

The agreement also said that the State requires full transparency from the Centene Entities around the costs and fees associated with those services paid for by the States and that Centenes payment was intended to satisfy any repayment obligations to the state.

As with the other settlements, Centene denied any wrongdoing or liability and the agreement said the State believes the Centene Entities have provided high quality pharmacy benefit services to the State and are qualified to continue to provide such services.

Nebraska isnt the only state to reach a settlement and then turn around and award Centene a new Medicaid managed care contract.

Ohio officials awarded the company a new contract shortly after that states settlement was reached. The officials said that including Buckeye Health Plan, a Centene subsidiary, would give residents more options when choosing a managed-care health plan in the departments new person-centered vision of care.

California also signed Centene to new contracts for Los Angeles and Sacramento Counties.

In a response to the protests filed by Healthy Blue, Centene said it had disclosed everything required under the states request for proposals. The RFP called for bidders to provide information about any criminal or civil investigation by a state or federal agency.

Centene argued that all but three of the state agreements, which were disclosed, were no-fault settlements reached after proactive outreach by the company, rather than investigations that needed to be disclosed.

In her decision denying Healthy Blues protest, HHS CEO Danette Smith sided with Centene. She said the agency had exercised discretion in considering the companys disclosures and had taken into account their timing, no-fault character and anticipatory nature.

The Healthy Blue lawsuit is the latest trouble to hit Nebraskas procurement process.

The process has come under scrutiny after a series of cases in which officials wound up choosing a low-cost bidder that failed to do the job. The most recent case was the selection of St. Francis Ministries, a Kansas-based nonprofit, to manage Omaha-area child welfare cases. Nebraska ended up terminating the contract early.

Speaker of the Legislature John Arch of La Vista proposed several changes to the procurement process this year, following an in-depth study and report in 2022. His bill was not debated this year because of an ongoing filibuster over other issues but could be considered next year.

Nebraskas current Medicaid managed care contracts date to 2017, when the state signed with three private companies to administer what was then $1.2 billion worth of Medicaid services. Since then, two of the original three companies merged, which led to the state signing a contract with Healthy Blue.

Our best Omaha staff photos & videos of June 2023
The National Council for Colleges of Education (NCCE) has praised the management of the Adeniran Ogunsanya College of Education (AOCOED) Oto/Ijanikin, Lagos for setting the pacein international best practice in teacher education.

The Council, which is the regulatory body for colleges of education, expressed its satisfaction with the 61-year-old institution for setting examples for others to follow.

NCCE representative, Mr Vitalis Uji spoke during the inaugural lecture of Mr Anakoro Canice Ihentuge, a Chief Lecturer in the Department of English of AOCOED.

Ihentuge spoke on the theme: The creative artist in the 21st century.

Uji, who is the Director Academic Programme, recalled that no sooner the Council directed that any lecturer who attains the Chief Lecturer status in colleges must deliver his inaugural lecture, that AOCOED complied.

I can say without fear of contradiction that NCCE as a supervisory body is happy with the college because it has always played by the rules. For instance, the college has never lagged behind in accreditation and its always setting the pace in other quality assurance measures, Uji said.

In 2013, AOCOED invited NCCE to conduct a staff audit in the college. The exercise lasted three weeks and a high quality report was produced, which must have gone a long way in elevating the quality of decision-making by the management. This college was the first in the country to take this measure, and since then other colleges across the country have followed suit, he added.

Uji said as it is the tradition in universities, the Commission also feels that teachers who have reached the the height of their profession must deliver their inaugural lecture in compliance with international best practice.

Delivering the lecture, Ihentunge said unlike the previous generations, the 21-century artist have more challenges to contend with. The scenario, Ihentuge argued, is not helped by a surge in global malaise, such as poverty, food and water shortage, ritual killing, kidnapping, famine, corruption, war and global warming.

Nevertheless, Ihentunge challenged contemporary artists to be on the move, having a deep understanding of the world he lives before putting pen on paper.

Ihentunge said: Indeed, corruption seems the hallmark of modern world governance, especially in Africa.Worse still, the young are overzealously being initiated into this ugly tradition.

Read Also: 20,000 children sit for NCEE in Lagos State

The artist role as the watch-dog of the society is much more required in lifting the next generations out of the mire of extinction The artist should do more urgent and crazy things to save the generation. And like several other advocates of the arts, our proposal would be: Now is the time to strengthen our institutions so that artists can emerge uniquely prepared to engage such important global concerns.

According to him, contemporary artists are boxed into a corner in their careers, particularly the ones bordering on creativity and ingenuity. More worrisome is the fact that some teachers do not seem to appreciate art as a concept that is dynamic, he further explained.

Just as the society itself, art changes her garment every now and then. Art emanates from man, from nature, and from the creator Himself. Based on my experience, I boldly attest to the reality that art is being. Human being changed as their world gets transformed. The same happens to art; it cannot stand aloof beside man. It bears out mans metamorphosis. Unfortunately, some educators do not realise this. Through ignorance or lack of imaginative ability or even indolence in the application of their natural aptitude, art suffers together with the society in their hands.

Earlier, AOCOED Provost, Dr Aina Ladele, assured the audience that the inaugural lecture had come to stay.
Twitter Chief Executive Officer, Elon Musk, has set temporary limits on the social media platform to address extreme levels of data scraping and system manipulation.

Musk announced this on his official Twitter handle on Saturday.

According to him, verified accounts are temporarily limited to reading 6,000 posts a day.

He added that the unverified accounts and new unverified accounts are limited to reading 600 posts a day and 300 posts per day, respectively.

He said, To address extreme levels of data scraping & system manipulation, weve applied the following temporary limits:

 Verified accounts are limited to reading 6000 posts/day

 Unverified accounts to 600 posts/day

 New unverified accounts to 300/day, he wrote hours after the social media platform suffered from a global outage.

To address extreme levels of data scraping & system manipulation, weve applied the following temporary limits:  Verified accounts are limited to reading 6000 posts/day

 Unverified accounts to 600 posts/day

 New unverified accounts to 300/day  Elon Musk (@elonmusk) July 1, 2023

His clarification came as millions of users across the globe suffered a major outage globally, which prevented thousands of users from accessing the social media platform.

According to the outage monitor website Down Detector, more than 7,000 users reported issues with Twitter.

Meanwhile, Kanyi Daily reported that the Twitter boss in May announced a series of new features for the platform.

Musk announced that Twitter, in its latest version, will come with support for direct message replies, voice/video chats, and encrypted DM 1.0.

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By Joshua Chibuzo Andrew, Owerri

The new Acting Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has replaced Mohammed Barde, the Imo state Commissioner of Police with Stephen Olarewaju, few months after the general elections.

The Police Service Commission, in its release on Saturday said the Inspector General of Police also appointed Godwin Aghaulor as Borno state CP, Adelesi E. Oluwarotimi as new Kwara state CP, Adebola Ayinde Hamzat as Oyo CP, Augustina Ogbodo as Ebonyi state CP and Samuel Titus Musa as Kebbi state Commissioner.

Others appointed are; Aderemi Olufemi Adeboye as Anambra state Commissioner of Police and Alamatu Abiodun Mustapha as Ogun state CP.

Ikechukwu Ani, the Head, Press and Public Relations of the Police Service Commission, who signed the released and made it available on Saturday, disclosed the Commissions quest for the new IGP to include the North-east and South-east geo-political zones which are yet to record the benchmark of 15 percent as decided at its last plenary.

The Commissions Chairman, Dr. Solomon Arase, CFR, a retired Inspector General of Police, said the postings as recommended by the Acting IGP, was fair at commendable especially on the inclusion of women.

The IGP should consider the disadvantaged geo-political zones while forwarding subsequent proposals for commissions ratification.

Meanwhile, it was revealed that Mr Barde, the immediate past commissioner of police in the state has been absent from his duties in the command for over two months.

His absent was noticed shortly after the Adamawa Supplementary election. Source revealed.

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When a passenger on a Stena Line ferry slipped overboard at the port of Loch Ryan in Scotland, a rescue mission was immediately initiated. The man was later taken by helicopter to a local hospital for treatment.

A Coastguard spokesman released the following statement: "HM Coastguard was requested to assist the Stena Superfast 8 ferry this evening after a person fell overboard in Loch Ryan ... The person was recovered from the water by the ferry's fast rescue craft and taken to Ayr Hospital by the Coastguard helicopter."

Saving the Passenger Who Fell Off the Ferry

On Saturday, July 1, at about 5:30 PM local time, word came in that a passenger had fallen from the ship into the ocean as the Stena Superfast 8 was pulling into the dock, as reported by LADbible.

The Coastguard evacuated the victim to Ayr Hospital after the ferry's rescue crew pulled him from the sea.

BBC reported that he was declared dead once the passenger arrived at the hospital by helicopter. The Scottish Police have said they do not suspect foul play in the death. A report detailing the event will reportedly be sent to the procurator fiscal.

A representative for Stena Line told LADbible that the company immediately began emergency protocols, notified the Coastguard and Police Scotland, and launched a search and rescue effort after the incident.

In Loch Ryan, Scotland

There are boats that go between Scotland and Northern Ireland that dock in Loch Ryan, which is a natural harbor located on the west coast of Scotland. One of these ferries is the Stena Superfast 8, which departs from the Scottish settlement of Cairnryan and arrives in the Northern Irish city of Belfast.

According to LADbible, even though the location has a long history of being used for shipbreaking, it also acted as a backup port during World War II in case the ports on the rivers Mersey and Clyde were bombed and became unworkable.

In addition to being where German U-Boats operating in the Atlantic went to surrender in 1945, it was also one of the places where American forces landed in the UK in preparation for the D-Day assault.

Also Read: 'Get Your Act Together:' Passengers Frustrated With FAA's Twitter Jokes, United's Cancellations

Rare Tragedy With Fatal Consequences

While incidents of persons going overboard are very uncommon, they may have devastating consequences. Multiple situations have occurred in which a passenger went overboard, requiring rescuers to attempt to retrieve them from the sea.

The same tragedy occurred a few days ago in the Baltic Sea. In a report by Mirror, a woman and her 7-year-old son drowned when the youngster jumped overboard from a ferry traveling from Poland to Sweden.

The mother dove into the ocean to save her son, a dive of around 65 feet. Subsequent rescue attempts were directed at bringing both of them to safety.

Both the mother and boy were evacuated to the hospital, but despite the medical staff's best efforts, none survived.

Also Read: Virgin Galactic Completes First Commercial Flight; Passengers Celebrate Italian Air Force Centenary

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The Campaign Manager of the Obi-Datti Presidential Campaign in the February 25, 2023, election, Mr. Oseloka H. Obaze has warned the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC against tampering with IRev as it concerns the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

In a tweet on Saturday, Mr. Obaze said that intelligence reaching the Campaign office shows that INEC is trying to yield to pressure to temper with the results of some states including the FCT to enable the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) to be in good standing.

According to our source, INEC is tampering with the machines used in the election to adjust FCT results to give the APC candidate, the much-needed 25%, which he did not get as per the initial INEC declaration and for which he is being challenged at the Presidential Election Tribunal.

Its not clear how the Electoral Commission can brazenly carry out such bizarre action but given the abracadabra they did to announce the APC Candidate winner by 4 a.m., there is nothing to be taken for granted, he said.

Mr. Obaze warned that INEC and the ruling APC may be taking the adherence to the rule of law and due process disposition of Nigerians in general and the Obidient Movement in particular for granted, but that it would be courting catastrophe for them to want to pour salt into an open wound inflicted on Nigerias electorate.

The former United Nations, UN diplomat reminded INEC that what they are trying to do is tantamount to raising a dead horse and that whether the reports were fake or real, the Commission should know the level of public confidence in them has long been eroded.
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Since the inauguration of the current government on the 29th of May 2023, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has been championing life-changing policies, busy appointing advisers and setting up a solid foundation for the building blocks of his Presidency. It is interesting to note that even with the intense lobby going on, no one has come out to publicly project that they are a potential candidate for a ministerial position, except Professor Muhammad Pate who slyly let it slip through the press announcement by his colleagues that he was passing over the highly important leadership of GAVI a global vaccine health behemoth to return home to serve his country.

Even if this were to be true, it is rather too self-serving and manipulation of the hand of the President to nominate and appoint him as the Minister designate from Bauchi State -assumingly to superintend over the affairs of the Federal Ministry of Health.

Without any gainsaying, the last elections were fought on several fronts, with men and women making huge sacrifices, some went against their kit and kin and made huge financial contributions, especially at a time of severe Naira scarcity accentuated by the now infamous Naira redesign policy of the CBN.

But they persevered and made sacrifices, loyal party men and women strategized day and night, and spent copious amounts of time and resources to ensure that the APC came out victorious.

Bauchi State was one such battleground, the party hierarchy was deeply entrenched in the pockets of a politically naive former Minister of Education, Adamu Adamu and an equally uninspiring Guber candidate in the person of Air Marshal Sadique Abubakar it took the combined efforts of the traditional and reliable APC structure in the State for the APC to achieve the 37.1 % of the votes cast giving him the 25% requirement to tick the box as one of its wins adding to the overall victory at the polls. This context is very important because despite being a global health actor, nothing is known about Pates contributions to Bauchi State APC or the center when it mattered most. He was ensconced in pursuing his GAVI brief, which is not bad, only that it largely perpetuates his personal career growth, while others were in the political trenches ensuring a much-needed victory at the polls. One very important aspect to look at is that given his prominent relationship with the former President of the Senate Dr Bukola Saraki, his interests and sympathies may have aligned with that of the PDP candidate former Vice President Atiku Abubakar. As Saraki played a prominent role in the political structure and campaign of the Atikus last push for the presidency. It is only natural that the relationship with the latter would have inspired Pates political inclination and bias.

To further buttress how Prof Pate is not a party man or loyalist, he was one of 28 candidates who vied for the governorship of Bauchi State in 2019 under the aegis of APC, at the time he had described himself as an accidental politician, this wasnt far fetched as he lost out and continued his candidature under the more ideological left PRP. Other fears harboured against people like him are so-called technocrats have used national positions and assignments to propel themselves to global boards, and attract the headship of global organizations after their stints of heading Nigerian MDAs, we saw it in the recent history of the likes of Amina Mohammed who served for a year as Minister of Environment, Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, who went to the world bank after her stint as Minister of Finance and recently became the President of the World Trade Organization, Nigerias former Minister of Agriculture Mr Adewunmi Adeshina had the entire goodwill and machinery of government thrown behind him to emerge as the AfDB President. Pate is in great company as in the past he had resigned his position as Nigerias Minister of State for Health at a time Nigeria needed him most to further his professional career at the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, ironically most times only self-serving.

We must stop this disrespect of politicians, using them only to serve our purpose, and onboarding technocrats who come to reap where they have not sown anything. Lets remember not only technocrats are meritorious nor are the smartest Nigerians around. There are politicians of great experience who can get the job done. Bauchi is too important politically speaking to be left in the hands of individuals like Prof. Pate. In this instance, Pate is already late to the Party. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu must get it right.

Misbahu Shehu a public affairs analyst is based in Bauchi, Bauchi State.

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The 9th national assembly is the worst in the history of Nigerias democracy. It achieved nothing relative to its fundamental responsibilities. It was an appendage to the presidency, having surrendered its independence and authority. Nigerias socioeconomic woes were compounded by the failure of the Ahmad Lawan-led 9th national assembly to checkmate the executive excesses. In particular, the huge debt which has sadly placed the country in a sorry state is a result of its ineffectiveness. Corruption, insecurity and poverty grew to a suffocating magnitude under its nose because it aided executive rascality. May Nigeria never again witness such a rubber stamp national assembly!

Every enlightened Nigerian today is familiar with these sweeping statements and their likes. They have become so ritualized that lately, they dominate every democratic governance discourse. Even right now, they still reverberate.

But, how did we get here?

Metaphorically, a rubber stamp legislature simply means an ineffective legislature. The term gained prominence in our political lexicon during the last dispensation when it was largely used to define the 9th national assembly as referenced above. This toga literally overshadowed every positive impact that was made by the then-federal legislature.

But in the real sense, is there anything like a rubber stamp parliament? And if yes, does it exist only in Nigeria?

Citing research findings, the features of a rubber stamp legislature include: giving official approval to something without really thinking about it, agreeing to a decision, plan, or law.without thinking about it much; granting approval to the actions or decisions of others without considering them; approving an idea, project, law, etc. without examining it carefully first as well as not disagreeing with particularly the executive. So by inference, a rubber stamp parliament is inherently lacking in a sense of scrutiny and strength of willpower. It does not embody the wishes of the people. It is a threat to democracy and also constitutes an avenue for wastage of public resources.

Further scratching below the surface, a rubber stamp legislature is mostly powerless yet officially recognized and endowed with considerable de jure power but little de facto power for which it rarely or never disagrees with more powerful organs. Elsewhere, it is called a toy parliament. These are additional proof that a rubber stamp legislature generally is lacking in influence.

For instance the British parliament is a relatively non-influential, and perhaps even peripheral, institution with respect to policy. The House of Commons, in particular, is widely criticised, being described in the media as a legislature on its knees or an elaborate rubber-stamp. In China also, because legislation is decided by party leaders prior to the session, the countrys top legislature, the National Peoples Congress, NPC, is being derisively described as a rubber-stamp parliament.

Meanwhile, writing on African Parliaments: Do They Carry Any Real Political Weight?, Olivier Marbot lamented that parliaments on the African continent struggle to fulfil their legislative role, with the overbearing figure of the head of state  seen as alone embodying public authority  often taking centre stage and relegating the legislature to the background as a mere rubber-stamp..In many African countries, whether their institutions are modelled along British or French lines, political life often, if not exclusively, revolves around the head of state and his or her inner circle.

Then spotlighting Uganda, Prof John Barya hinted that whenever important decisions need to be taken, they are not debated logically within Parliament but rather first processed in the (ruling National Resistant Movement) NRM caucus where the majority is whipped into endorsing the caucus position even when they dont believe in it.

And of course, the Indian parliament is no different. A renowned political activist, Shashi Tharoor, regretted that today..our government has successfully reduced the parliament to a notice board and a rubber stamp. It is a notice board for the government to announce whatever it wants to do and it is a rubber stamp because their crushing majority obediently passes every bill in exactly the form it comes from the cabinet. The list is inexhaustible.

So evidently again, this phenomenon is not peculiar to Nigeria. But in her own case, the legislature lost its authority, relevance and assertiveness sequel to a weak constitution. It was not deliberate, but a creation of the laws, albeit unintended.

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Therefore, while the misgivings about a rubber stamp legislature are justified, they should be matched with the realization that Nigeria cannot have the kind of legislature that meets the expectations of the people until the 1999 constitution is completely replaced or at least comprehensively altered. The laws are largely as faulty as they are undemocratic, thereby making it impossible for the legislature to deliver except with a gracious president.

Otherwise, how can a legislature successfully checkmate the executive under a constitution that does not provide for definite consequences for breach or rascality?

To begin with, the constitution stipulates that certain categories of presidential nominees shall be screened and confirmed by the Senate, but is silent on the ultimate implications of appointing without legislative confirmation.

Also, the legislature is to scrutinize and approve every plan to borrow money for governance under any guise, but nothing is said about the repercussions of taking such loans without parliamentary consent or even how such breaches can be blocked in the first place. Similarly, the constitution does not envisage a scenario where the executive embarks on expenditure without official budgets.

Furthermore, the legislature, in discharging its oversight functions, is to summon any entity, both private and public, for questioning and also issue warrants of arrest against defaulters. But if for instance, the president or his agents acts in breach of this provision, who would execute the orders? Is it the police chief appointed by the same president that would order the arrest? Equally, what is the position of the constitution in a situation where the executive decides to starve the national assembly of operational funds given that the legislature has no access to the national treasury?

Again, what happens if the heads of the security agencies, who are directly answerable to the president, decide to withdraw their personnel from the services of the national assembly? And then importantly, if the parliament for any reason overrides the presidency, how will the objectives be achieved without the willingness of the executive?

These are some of the salient contradictions that cumulatively render the constitution weak resulting sadly in a powerless and ineffective legislature.

Hence, it is a disservice to public morality dismissing the legislature as a rubber stamp simply because it is not engaging in conflicts with the executive. A vibrant parliament is certainly not about friction and confrontations.

Especially in developing countries, a sensitive legislature limits itself to the sphere of influence available to it. Aware that there are no solid constitutional protections for effectiveness and efficiency, such parliament avoids grandstanding or unnecessary fights. Rather than unproductive struggles, it settles for collaboration in the overall interest of the citizenry because different arms of one government cannot engage in hostilities without impoverishing the masses that they are elected to protect. Once again, it takes a magnanimous Nigerian president for the legislature to operate optimally because, by the constitution, he is the most powerful the world over.

The 8th Senate did not confirm Ibrahim Magu but he served as the Chairman of the EFCC for five years. The same assembly made a resolution that the comptroller-general of the customs must wear official uniforms as the laws demand, yet for eight years he functioned on plain clothes.

The 9th Senate made three separate resolutions for the then-service chiefs to be dropped for under-performance, but former president Muhammadu Buhari ignored the directives and even extended their tenures when they were due for retirement. Then apparently out of mutual respect, Buhari did not appoint Lauretta Onochie as INEC commissioner upon rejection thrice by the senate, while the same parliament at a very odd plenary, ratified the funds that were expended months earlier by the presidency without legislative approval. Are these not further testimonies that the legislature is at the mercy of the presidency?

Consequently, the president of the 10th Senate, Godswill Akpabio, allowed reason, courage and foresight to take pre-eminence. He explicitly campaigned that the Senate under him would have a harmonious relationship with the executive to deliver sustainable good governance. His colleagues elected him on that premise thus implying that such disposition has become an adopted corporate strategy.

Upon assumption of office, he was quick to remind them that their choice reflects the collective will of the Senate and also that Nigeria today has in Bola Tinubu, a president who is committed to a strong economy, national security, inclusion and the rule of law.

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Akpabio was emphatic that the antecedents of Mr President and his actions in office these past two weeks give not just a pointer but bear witness to an executive government that knows the challenges of the country and is in a hurry to resolve same adding that we should, therefore, anticipate an executive that is proactive, progressive and practical.

And on the senates obligations, he declared that our laws must, therefore, align with the vision of Mr. President to protect and provide for our people at the innermost core of their essence while our actions must also guarantee the best and most efficient use of our national commonwealth.

The senate president further stressed that we must, therefore, as a Senate, rise to partner with His Excellency the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, and provide the required legislative framework and legal environment for him to anchor the policies and programmes that he espouses for the country.

Then on what this senate represents, Godswill Akpabio concluded by charging his colleagues to see every reason to support good policies and programmes of the Federal Government, and I call on you to put this national interest first at all times. Our Senate, the 10th Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, will be a Senate for all Nigeria.

Empirically, Akpabio has placed his cards on the table. And he is dispassionate about it. The 10th Senate has to complement a president who is committed to a strong economy, national security, inclusion and the rule of law.

So if this strategic framework reflects a rubber stamp senate, then good governance is no longer about a strong economy, national security, inclusion and the rule of law.

Besides, it bears repeating that a rubber stamp legislature is inevitable in Nigeria, except one is living in self-denial. The executive arm, principally the presidency, can always depart from the democratic spirit of the Constitution or take autocratic steps and get away with them because there are no mechanisms to practically resist such tendencies or even bring perpetrators to book. Yes, the executive has enormous protections to act in manners that suggest that our Constitution is too easily subverted in an undemocratic way and also that the Parliaments ability to hold the government accountable is completely eroded.

Therefore, until we strengthen the constitution towards a deepened democracy, every enlightened Nigerian adult today is culpable in the making of a rubber stamp 10th senate. One does not need to be politically active to champion nation-building. Succinctly, it is the height of hypocrisy to subjectively judge the Akpabio-led Senate when you have no history of lending a voice through your elected representative for a strong constitution that guarantees equalization of powers among the arms of government; except also, you detest a strong economy, national security, inclusion and the rule of law.

Egbo is a parliamentary affairs analyst
The state Commissioner of Police, Olatoye Durosinmi, disclosed this at the weekend while parading the suspect along with 268 others arrested for various offences.

A man identified as Aniekan James was recently arrested by the Akwa Ibom State Police Command.

The man was arrested for allegedly killing his only son, Odudu James, who was 35 years old.

The state Commissioner of Police, Olatoye Durosinmi, disclosed this at the weekend while parading the suspect along with 268 others arrested for various offences.

The CP said the suspect was arrested on June 16, 2023, by operatives of the Ukanafun Division.

According to the police boss, Aniekan had killed several people in Lagos and Abia states.

On June 16, 2023, one Aniekan James of Ikot Ndot village in Ukanafun LGA was arrested by the Ukanafun division for shooting his 35-year-old only son, Odudu James, who had been having a war of words with him.

The suspect is alleged to be a habitual murderer who has committed murders in Lagos and Aba states, the Commissioner stated.
Prince Thursday Okon, a former domestic worker, and two other suspects have been arrested by the Akwa Ibom State Police Command.

They were arrested for the kidnap of the Vice Chancellor of a private university in the state.

The state Commissioner of Police, Olatoye Durosinmi, who disclosed this at the weekend stated that Okon, connived with his gang members, Saviour Sunday Luke and Richard Friday, to kidnap his former boss after he was sacked over alleged criminal tendencies.

The CP said the remaining kidnap ransom of N1,570,000M and the Toyota Corolla used for the kidnap operation, were also recovered, while the VC had been reunited with his family.

On the 14th of April 2023, at about 10:30am, the Vice chancellor of a private University in the State was kidnapped on his way home, the police boss stated.



Two days later, being the 16th, in a prompt and discreet investigation, Operatives of the Anti-Kidnapping Squad of the Command, arrested one Prince Thursday Okon, a former domestic staff who was sacked because of his criminal tendencies who masterminded the kidnapping and two of his gang members, Saviour Sunday Luke and Richard Friday, all of Ikot Ebam Village in Mkpan Enin LGA

The sum of one million, two hundred and seventy thousand naira cash was recovered as part of the ransom paid, while Two Hundred and Fifty thousand naira was left in one of the suspects account. The Toyota Corolla used for the operation was also recovered. The VC has been reunited with his family.
An advocacy group, Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP), has given President Bola Tinubu a seven-day ultimatum to publish details of spending amounting to about N400 billion from the fuel subsidy removal.

In a letter to the president on Sunday, SERAP expressed concerns that the savings from the subsidy removal might be embezzled, misappropriated or diverted into private pockets.

We would be grateful if the recommended measures are taken within seven days of the receipt and/or publication of this letter. the group said in the letter signed by its deputy director, Kolawole Oluwadare. If we have not heard from you by then, SERAP shall consider appropriate legal actions to compel your government to comply with our request in the public interest.

SERAP said unless the government was transparent and accountable to Nigerians on how it spends the savings from the subsidy, the removal would continue to undermine Nigerias rights and increase their vulnerability to poverty and social deprivation.

Transparency and accountability in the spending details of the N400 billion saved as a result of the removal of subsidy on petrol, and on the spending of subsequent savings from the removal would mean that the savings can help poor Nigerians to overcome the effects of such removal.

SERAP added that Mr Tinubus government had a legal responsibility to ensure that the savings from the subsidy are spent solely to benefit the 137 million poor Nigerians bearing the brunt of the removal.

It urged the president to promptly instruct the anti-graft agencies; Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to monitor the spending.

Shortly after taking the oath of office on May 29, Mr Tinubu announced that there would no longer be a petroleum subsidy regime.

Revealing that the 2023 budget he saw has no provision for subsidy, the president stated that funds meant for the subsidies would now be diverted to public infrastructure, education, health care and job opportunities.

In February 2023, the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Ltd. (NNPCL) disclosed that the amount spent as fuel subsidy had crossed N400 billion monthly.

Mele Kyari, the NNPCLs Group Chief Executive Officer, disclosed this at an event where the company was changed from a corporation.

Our customers are here; we are transferring to each of them at N113 per litre. That means there is a difference of close to N202 for every litre of PMS we import into this country. In computation, N202 multiplied by 66.5 million litres, multiplied by 30, will give you over N400 billion of subsidy every month, he stated.
President Muhammadu Buhari has reacted to the protests by the Islamic Movement of Nigeria (IMN), otherwise knows as Shiites, warning them not to test the patience of his government.

The President handed down the warning on Tuesday in a statement by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mr. Femi Adesina, adding that it might be forced to act with maximum force to defend the interest of the majority of Nigerians.

Reacting to the killing of Deputy Commissioner of Police, DCP Usman Umar and National Youth Service Corps member, Precious Owolabi, during Mondays protest by the sect, President Buhari called on any group carrying out violent protests to stop now, else the government would take decisive actions against them.

Let nobody or group doubt or test our will to act in the higher interest of the majority of our citizens, the statement qouted the President as saying.

According to the statement, President Buhari said he was deeply touched by the death of Umar and Owolabi as he condoled with their families and the management of Channels TV, where the corps member was attached to.

Buhari also described the two as law-abiding, hard-working and vibrant Nigerians with a promising future.

Members of the Islamic Movement has sustained protests against the continued incarceration of their spiritual leader, Sheikh Ibraheem El-Zakzaky and his wife, Zeenat.

The duo have been in custody since a violent encounter between members of the sect and a convoy of the Chief of Army Staff, Tukur Buratai in December 2015.

The violent encounter left scores of Shiites dead.

Meanwhile, IMN members continued their protest in Tuesday in Abuja, making the Police to launch tear gas canisters and fired gunshots to disperse members of the protesters.

Aside the death of Umar and Owolabi who was reporting for Channels, two Shiites were allegedly killed while two Assistant Superintendent of Police and others got injured.
The Federal University Oye-Ekiti, (FUOYE),will at its combined convocation August 26, award honourary doctorate degrees to three personalities who have genuinely dedicated their lives in service to the nation.

To be honoured are 86-year old Imam Abubakar Abdullahi, who saved the lives of 262 Christians that would have been killed by insurgents in the north; Catholic Bishop of Ekiti Diocese, Rev. Felix Ajakaiye and a British septuagenarian, Chief Guy Garguilo, a retired school principal who had dedicated over 60 years of his life teaching and moulding destinies of Nigerian youngsters in Okeogbe Akoko, Ondo State.

The week-long ceremony is the second convocation of the institution. It will kick off on August 26 with an interface with the reporters by Vice-Chancellor Prof. Kayode Soremekun on the achievements in infrastructural and learning facilities to improve FUOYEs educational standard.

Read Also: Phony group dupes FUOYE students

The convocation continues till September 1, featuring a public lecture titled: Anticipating the Birthday Boy, Options and Possibilities for a Besieged Nation at 60, to be delivered on August 29 by Prof Tony Afejuku, a Public Affairs analyst and Professor of English at the University of Benin, Edo State. The lecture will reflect, in retrospective and prospective fervour, Nigerias thorny journey ahead of the nations Diamond anniversary next year.

The trio of Imam Abubakar, Bishop Ajakaiye and Garguilo will be garlanded with FUOYEs Honorary Doctorate Degrees (PhDs), with PhD in Peace Studies going to Abubakar, while both Ajakaiye and Garguilo get the institutions Honourary PhDs in Public Administration .

According to a statement from the VCs office, the convocation will be spiced in the evening of August 29, with a performance of the Convocation play entitled : Once Upon a Tower.

Written by Nigerias first Professor of Dance, ex-Abuja Carnivals CEO/artistic director and currently, FUOYEs Dean, School of Post Graduate Studies, Prof. Rasaki Ojo Bakare, Once Upon a Tower x-rays the dire consequences of the rot being perpetuated by some bad eggs in the nations tertiary institution.
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ilorin zonal office has arrested General Manager of Kwara State Television Authority, Alhaji Abdulfatai Adebowale over allegations of land fraud.

Adebowale is being interrogated alongside a senior official of the Kwara State Bureau of Land and two staff of the Kwara State Television Authority located at Apata Yakuba area of Ilorin, the state capital.

The immediate past Governor of Kwara State, Alhaji Abdulfatai Ahmed had sometime in 2014 allocated 10 plots of land in the premises of the media outfit to some staff of Kwara Television.

Thirteen staff of the Kwara TV through their petition dated 8th day of May 2019 alleged that the Station General Manager had sold the 10 plots of land given by the State Government and converted to his personal use.

They alleged that Since 2014 to date, the said plots of land were hijacked by the General Manager, Alhaji Abdulfatai Adewale Adebowale against the purpose intended by the State Government for Staff corporation, In 2017, the in house Union of the Corporation Radio, Television, Theatre and Art Workers (RATTAWU) started agitation for the recovery of the land from the General Manager which led to plethora of correspondences between the union and the Office of the Kwara State Head of Service.

They alleged further The union wrote the Kwara State Bureau Land requesting for the allocation paper in request to recover the said Land converted by the General Manager as his personal property, but all to no avail 

The operatives of the Commission during investigations discovered the suspect and his son benefited from the land while the remaining ones were sold to outsiders without the knowledge of the staff.

It was gathered that the Kwara State Television boss received allocation papers in the names of staff but did not deliver the documents to the original owners.

Contacted, the Head of the Media and Publicity, , EFCC, Abuja, Mr. Wilson Uwujaren who confirmed the story said that, the suspects will soon be charged to court.
Communities across Australia rallied Sunday (July 2), supporting a referendum calling for Indigenous constitutional recognition through what they call the Voice to Parliament Referendum.

Dubbed "Come Together For Yes," organized by the Yes23 campaign, the events included family-friendly community events such as speeches, workshops, and live music and dance. Some of the larger rallies were held in the country's state capitals, like Sydney and Melbourne, as well as in the national capital Canberra.

The vote on the Voice may occur anytime after August 19 but is widely expected to occur by October.

What is the Voice?

The Voice provides permanent representation and recognition for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in the Australian Constitution. It is a body representing Indigenous Australians to provide their input into the decisions, policies, and laws made by the government and parliament.

The concept of the Voice, according to its proponents, was consistent with the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, especially the Indigenous peoples having a right to participate in government decision-making in matters affecting their rights through their own political institutions.

If the referendum favors the amendment, the Voice would be constitutionally enshrined and protected as the ninth chapter of the Australian Constitution, which meant successive governments could not overturn it.

What the Voice is not is that it is neither a "third chamber" of the Australian federal parliament nor a body with any veto power. The government and parliament are also not compelled to follow such representations. Instead, the Voice would create a mechanism designed to improve decisions, policies, and laws through First Nations input on matters that affect them.

What is the Voice referendum?

The Voice to Parliament referendum would ask the Australian people whether or not they support a constitutional amendment to create the Voice as a vital part of the Australian government and parliament.

The draft question formulated by the Australian Electoral Commission put to voters was whether or not to amend the Australian Constitution "to [recognize] the First Peoples of Australia by establishing an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice." It was first published in a bill introduced into the country's federal parliament in late March.

Read Also: HNGN's Latest News about Australia

Who is Yes23?

Yes23 is a campaign led by Australians for Indigenous Constitutional Recognition. It is an organization dedicated to educating and raising awareness about the Uluru Statement from the Heart, aside from its push to enshrine the Voice to Parliament constitutionally.

The campaign stressed that the Australian Constitution has not yet recognized Indigenous peoples by giving them representation and suggestive power in government policies. It also said voting in favor of the Voice would not only result in a symbolic recognition but also a practical one.

"A constitutionally protected Voice gives Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people a direct say in the laws that affect them, allowing for real solutions to the challenges imposed on them in areas like jobs, health, education, and justice," the campaign said in its website.

Who Campaigns to Vote 'No'?

While many came out in support of the Voice to Parliament referendum, polling shows the "no" campaign was gaining momentum.

A recent Newspoll survey showed 47% of Australians would vote "no" to the referendum against 43% of those likely to vote "yes." Alongside these numbers is the drop in the approval rating of the Labor government of Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.

The trend was similar in a recent Resolve Political Monitor poll, where "no" votes lead ahead of "yes" at 51-49.

Broken down, a majority of Australian states are not in favor of the Voice referendum. The only exceptions were Victoria and New South Wales. The referendum would only succeed if four of the six Australian states and a national majority voted "yes."

Australian opposition leader Peter Dutton particularly lashed out at Australian mining giants and other big companies for donating to the "yes" campaign, saying they "lacked a significant backbone" regarding the referendum.

"There are a lot of people who are just craving popularity and are trying to please people in the Twittersphere," he told Sky News.

Independent Australian senator Lidia Thorpe claimed a "yes" vote would mean nothing. "It's a real slap in the face for all of those warriors that have fought, who died, to think that we're looking at a powerless voice that may give advice," she told an eco-socialism conference in Melbourne.

Meanwhile, National Party leader David Littleproud doubled down on his party's opposition to the referendum. "It is not necessarily who is selling the Yes case, it's actually what they're selling," he added.

Yet despite the negative swing, Australians for Indigenous Constitutional Recognition co-chair Rachel Perkins was confident the "yes" camp would prevail as it was slowly being discussed in everyday Australian life. "What the polls don't really accommodate is this huge growing movement of the Australian people," she added.

Related Article: Australia Watchdog Questions Twitter's Efforts Against Online Hate; eSafety Releases New Report

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The opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) says President Muhammadu Buharis recent comments on our electoral process under the current Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) have raised fresh issues on the credibility of the February 2019 Presidential election.

In a statement signed by the PDPs National Publicity Secretary, the party notes that in demanding that INEC and the Police should ensure that the will of the people prevailed in free, fair and credible elections immediately ahead and going forward, Mr. President has admitted that preceding elections under the current dispensation have been less than credible.

This is including the recent elections in Bayelsa and Kogi where the All Progressives Congress (APC) turned the respective states to theaters of war, yet Mr. President congratulated the winners of those charades.

The statement reads in parts.

In his own words, in a meeting with INEC Chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, and the Inspector General of Police, Mohammed Adamu, at the Presidential Villa, Mr. President said, our elections must be done in violent-free atmosphere. The process must be free, fair, decent and devoid of intimidations and malpractices. It is the duty of the police to accomplish that and this is what I expect in the elections immediately ahead and going forward.

Mr. President added, those that you declare as winners must be candidates that the people have chosen. Democracy is about free will, and the will of the people must be allowed to prevail.

This is a weighty verdict by Mr. President on the huge electoral fraud perpetrated in the 2019 elections by his party, APC.

Though the verdict of the Supreme Court on the Presidential Election stands, in total obedience to our laws, the fact remains that the violent manipulations of the 2019 elections in favour of the APC and its candidates will continue to stare our nation in the face.

Mr. Presidents remark shows that, in their innermost conscience, beneficiaries of manipulated polls are always confronted with the truth.

Furthermore, the PDP tasks the management of INEC and the Police to come clean of the details of their recent meeting with President Buhari which is coming ahead of about 28 impending runoffs and by-elections scheduled for this month.

Our party holds that INEC is an independent electoral commission whose activities and processes are clearly governed by the law and extant rules and not by the dictates or prescriptions of the President.

Mr. President should therefore steer clear of INEC while the commission must assert its independence and desist from going to the Presidential villa for instructions on elections. Nigerians have their doubts if the hugely compromised INEC under Professor Yakubu can be anything independent.

However, if, indeed, Mr President is committed to ensuring free, fair and credible electoral process, he should reintroduce the 8th Assemblys Electoral Act Amendment bill, which he refused to sign, and make a fresh commitment to sign it into law immediately it is retooled to meet current exigencies and passed by the current National Assembly.

He should order the prosecution of security agents involved in the invasion of polling centers and shooting at voters in recent elections.

He should also reciprocate the benevolence of Nigerians by recreating an electoral atmosphere like the one that brought him into office in 2015.

After that, Mr. President should focus on seeking for solutions to the worsening economic and security challenges that have befallen our nation under his incompetent administration.
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) on Thursday summoned emergency meeting of the National Executive Committee. Details of the meeting were not revealed but the meeting is scheduled for Friday this week.

PDP National Secretary, Sen. Umaru Ibrahim Tsauri, in a Special Announcement of an emergency NEC meeting on Thursday, declared: All members of the PDP National Executive Committee(NEC) are hereby invited to an emergency meeting of the NEC tomorrow, Friday, 17th January, 2020.

Venue is NEC Hall, PDP National Secretariat, Wadata Plaza, Abuja and time is 10 a.m.

Members are enjoined to attend as the meeting will discuss the state of the nation.

PV: 0
The management of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) has commended the Governor Nyesom Wike of Rivers State for his timely intervention which has resulted in the smooth distribution of petroleum products to Rivers State neighbouring states.

A press release by the corporations Group General Manager, Group Public Affairs Division, Dr. Kennie Obateru, quoted the Managing Director of the Petroleum Products Marketing Company (PPMC), Mr. Musa Lawan, as saying that Governor Wikes intervention, by way of relaxing the stay-at-home order as it affected petroleum tanker drivers, went a long way in restoring normalcy to the fuel supply and distribution system in Rivers State and the environs.

The PPMC boss stated that despite the stay-at-home order, vessels laden with petroleum products were berthing the shores of Nigeria to guarantee products supply continuity, assuring that the question of shortage of petroleum products does not arise at all.

Everything in terms of petroleum products supply and distribution across the country has normalized. With respect to Port Harcourt, we had a grid lock about two days ago that built up around the Imo River which restricted movement of trucks and loading of petroleum products from Port Harcourt to neighbouring states. But as we speak, that gridlock has disappeared and I would like to thank His Excellency, Chief Nyesom Wike, for personally intervening with his team. Tankers can now go in and truck out petroleum products and deliver to neigbouring states, Lawan said.

He said the Management of the NNPC under the leadership of the Group Managing Director, Mallam Mele Kyari, was appreciative of initiatives like that and appealed to other governors to rapidly intervene in such situations to avoid shocks in the fuel distribution and supply system across the country.

He appealed to motorists not to engage in panic buying of petroleum products, especially petrol, noting that with the ample supply of the products, there was no need for anybody to stock up the product in jerry cans to avoid the danger of inferno at homes.




Coronavirus

The Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, has said that the only weapon to combat Coronavirus (COVID-19) is by applying the use of Non-Pharmaceutical Intervention (NPI).

According to Lai Mohammed, the use of NPI means; largely sensitization, advocacy, keeping very good hygiene, social distancing, not shaking hands, and no gathering.

The Minister made the remark in Abuja when he featured on the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) Forum to give an update on Governments efforts at containing the pandemic.

He warned that the spike in fake news and misinformation, despite repeated caution by the Government, is distracting the fight against COVID-19.

According to him, the Government is particularly worried about unverified local therapies circulating on social media as a cure to COVID-19, when in fact, no known cure has been developed for the disease.

If you go by Whatsapp platform, there are so many myths and cures for COVID-19 today.

Some people will tell you, and it cannot affect Africans or the disease does not even exist at all while some will say, all you need to do is to take garlic, take ginger.

As we speak today, there is no vaccine or medicine for COVID-19.

The only weapon to combat the virus is what we called Non-Pharmaceutical Intervention (NPI), which is largely sensitisation, advocacy, keeping very good hygiene, social distancing, not shaking hands, and no gathering.

These are the only effective ways to contain the pandemic, and that is why governments are declaring total lockdown.

Once it starts spreading, no healthcare in the world can survive it, Lai Mohammed said.

Meanwhile, 190 COVID-19 cases have been recorded in Nigeria, according to NCDC.
You may recall it was that moody Danish teen Hamlet who declared the plays the thing. He said it for a different reason than I shall give, but the sentiment is the same. When it comes to the legacy of William Shakespeare, to paraphrase young Hamlet: The plays are the thing.

Can you imagine a world, then, where the bulk of Shakespeares work did not survive? Where we could only take a historians word that this guy was, perhaps, Western civilizations greatest playwright? Lets put it this way: People dont flock to the Illinois Sophocles Festival, they come for the Bard and the panoply of incredible tragedies, histories and comedies that he wrote.

In the Book of Will, playing through July 29, part of the Illinois Shakespeare Festival at the Ewing Cultural Center, playwright Lauren Gunderson tells the true story of two actors who rescued at least 18 of Shakespeares plays from being lost to the ages. The collection they assembled is called the First Folio, and includes two of the works featured at this years festival, The Tempest and The Comedy of Errors.

In what can only be described as true labor of love (that was not lost), it was two members of Shakespeares acting company, Henry Condell and John Heminges, who undertook the not-so-insignificant task of collecting almost all of the Bards known plays. The first challenge was acquiring the plays, many of which had no scripts and had been performed only by memory. The second major hurdle was then getting the financing to actually print the First Folio, which, spoiler alert, was eventually successful, as ISF Artistic Director John Stark points out in his program message as this year we celebrate the 400th anniversary of [its] publishing.

Director Lori Adams has cast her leads well with Rafael Untaian and Geoffrey Warren Barnes II as Condell and Heminges, two members of the acting troupe The Kings Men. We ride the Tudor rollercoaster with them as they experience the ups and downs of undertaking what some people of the time probably considered a fools errand. They are not alone, however, in their quest. Heminges' wife Rebecca (Karen Sternberg) and Condells wife Elizabeth (Olivia D. Dawson) and his daughter Alice (Isa Condo Olvera) not only aid in the search, but they buoy the mens sinking spirits at crucial times.

The story, which opens three years after Shakespeares death, also features an assorted cast of colorful characters who were integral to the folio getting published, not the least of which is Richard Burbage (Michael Stewart Allen). Hed been Shakespeares favorite leading man in The Kings Men and he knew most of the plays by heart, since no paper copies of them existed. I mean, if anything should happen to Burbage... (Oh wait, I shant say too much.) Then theres the gentle scribe Ralph Crane (Jimmy Nguyen), whose love of Shakespeare and the sacredness to which he treats the texts will eventually lead him to be called Shakespeares first editor.

Thomas Anthony Quinn gives audiences a playful comedic turn as Shakespeares No. 1 frenemy, Ben Jonson, who gives the project the final push it needs in agreeing to write the introduction for the folio  despite the misgivings of his sizeable ego. The hero in financing the printing is the earnest and driven Isaac Jaggard (Dominic Gross), who ironically depends on the financial backing of his father William (Allen in a dual role). It is ironic because William has been making money off of selling pirated Shakespeare works for years.

This is the first ISF production I have seen this season, but it looks to be another great company of actors this year. What a coup for the ISF to snag Sternberg. She inhabits any role she plays to the fullest, and in The Book of Will she does double duty as Elizabeth and as Shakespeares widow, Anne Hathaway. She has a couple of lovely scenes as both characters, where I heard a few sniffles in the audience. (OK, maybe I got a little misty too.) Im not sure if Anne asked Condell and Heminges to read her husbands works to her, but I am sure glad that Gunderson took that liberty in her play. Its fitting.

I saw the preview performance for Will. It was very good, but there were still some minor things to tweak. I thought the stage left lighting needed to be brighter at the beginning of act two. As a whole, I thought the actors were playing it kind of safe. I think theyll loosen up as they get more comfortable in the space. I like the costumes by Rachel Barnett a lot, particularly the gown of Lady Emilia (Eva Olivia Catanzariti). Wowza, Elizabethan fashion never looked so good.

I think after seeing The Book of Will, youll be grateful. These men and women youve just met were more than merely players on the stage; they truly saved Shakespeare for all of us. And what might old Shakespeare say about their willful feat? Perhaps: I can no other answer make but thanks, And thanks, and ever thanks. ("Twelfth Night")

IF YOU GO What: The Book of Will Where: Illinois Shakespeare Festival, Ewing Cultural Center, Bloomington When: July 8-29; 7:30 p.m. Sunday-Thursday; 8 p.m. Friday & Saturday Cost: $27-$46; illinoisshakes.com Length: 2 hours and 30 minutes with 15-minute intermission

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BLOOMINGTON  Bloomingtons Melissa Livesay said her 1-year-old Bernese mountain dog Jasper is just joy.

Hes just in love, hes excited, hes happy, hes never not wagging his tail, she said.

Jasper is also the face and namesake of a new drive-thru coffee stand set to break ground in Bloomington. Jaspers Java is displaying a now hiring sign at its future site, 1601 E. General Electric Road.

Livesay co-owns the business with her husband Curt Livesay, Katherine Thalken, and Thalkens fiance, Bret Williams, who designed the companys logo and grew up across the street from Melissa. The other two partners are of Normal.

Livesay said they adopted Jasper because Ruthy, their 3-year-old Pyrenees-Aussie shepherd mix, needed a friend.

Although Ruthy is more relaxed, Livesay said shes very high-energy. Jasper fit perfectly in their family, she continued, and is such a little spot of sunlight.

She said Jaspers bright energy is exactly what they hope to recreate in the new java shop, by handing a little bit of joy out the window.

Happy tails

Livesay said her family moved back to the Bloomington-Normal area after a five-year stay in the Seattle area. There, she said they saw a lot of drive-thru coffee stands.

While theyre very small, Livesay said theyre very popular. She said the coffee was great and people love it, noting theyre easily accessible.

She said those stands were a huge source of joy for them.

Jaspers Java, she said, will serve usual coffee items, like frappes, lattes and iced coffee. Livesay said she bakes at home, and is basing beverage recipes on flavor profiles from her cakes.

Other items planned are smoothies and Lotus Energy Drinks.

Livesay said shes excited about their cold brew and nitro brew options, and described Bret as a huge cold brew nut. Relaying his words, she said, Were gonna have the best.

Gridleys Gobena Coffee will be their roaster. Livesay also plans on stocking packaged, baked items from Gobena, like scones and muffins.

She also noted that Gobena donates all proceeds to nonprofits, such as Lifesong for Orphans, and The Forgotten Initiative, which assists foster parents and vulnerable children.

Digging in

Before they can get brewing, the future java brewers will need to claw and scrape some rock and dirt out of ground. Livesay said they have to drill in water and sewer lines west under Keaton Plaza to existing utilities across that street.

Jaspers Java stand is being fabricated out of a 9.5-foot-tall cube shipping container. Livesay said Nord Custom Containers in south Bloomington is doing the conversion work, which includes electrical and plumbing to be implemented under a false floor.

The stand will feature two drive-thru windows, with an additional curb cut to be added for access from Keaton Plaza. Starting hours will be from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m., and theyre looking to hire around 20 part-time staff members.

Livesay said theyre aiming to open in early September. And, theyre excited to run it as a family business.

She said they want to give people a wonderful experience and send them off on their day with a smile.

Photos: DogOlympics 2021 Briannah Trancoso, Aubree Williams and McKayla Trancoso pet Mr. Dexter Barney gets ready to make the tunnel run Jane Kahman holding Hudson Jane Kahman holding Hudson, Jane Ross Aspen Barney Kathy Schniedwind with Aspen, Elizabeth Crowe, Humane Society of Central Illinois Development Director Kay Richardson with Miss Diamond, Kathy Schniedwind with Aspen, Elizabeth Crowe Miss Diamond Trey McCormick pets Barney as Taylor Olomon watches Carol and Carl Clover with Rusty, Elizabeth Crowe Laurie, Jack and Larry Law Carlee Clover with Rusty Dave Shimmin gives Mr. Dexter a treat Barney rests before going through the tunnel Carrie and Amber Melick with Hazel Rodney Freye-Terrell, Jane Ross Aubree Williams and McKayla Trancoso pet Twizzle Mr. Dexter takes a dip in the pool while owner Dave Shimmin watches
CHICAGO  In the immediate aftermath of last years mass shooting at Highland Parks Fourth of July parade came the expected questions when such a tragedy unfolds: Who was the gunman? Where had his weapon come from?

And in Illinois, a state run by gun control-minded Democrats, could laws be bolstered and were police using them as effectively as possible?

Experts have suggested what was on the books  if properly understood and implemented  potentially could have prevented the alleged shooter from obtaining the high-powered semi-automatic rifle used to rain bullets down on paradegoers, killing seven and wounding dozens more.

Ensuing efforts centered on so-called red flag gun laws and other measures designed to take away firearms from those whose backgrounds suggest they should not have access to them. And a Tribune analysis of available state data shows that the push by politicians, advocates and police leaders to use them more often seems to have had an effect in the year since the mass shooting, including significant spikes in the use of the red flag laws and formal warnings to Illinois State Police about people who should not own firearms.

In a period running from approximately the date of the shooting through May 31, state police received more than 11,800 so-called clear and present danger reports, notifying them that someone might be too dangerous to be granted a gun license. That is more than double the number received during the same period the prior year, state data shows.

The use of a separate tool, the firearms restraining order, the form for the states red flag law, has also jumped since the Highland Park attack.

The orders, which judges can use to take guns away from people they consider a threat, were granted 228 times in the 3  years from the laws inception in January 2019 through early August 2022. Just from then until May, there have been another 146 granted, nearly tripling the rate of usage based on a monthly average.

Additionally, changes to the firearms restraining order law were incorporated this year in a sweeping measure from the Democratic-controlled state legislature  currently entangled in state and federal legal challenges  that bans more than 100 high-powered guns, including the type used in the shooting, and ammunition magazines with the capacity of holding more than 10 rounds in long guns and 15 in handguns.

Increases in the use of state law can be attributed to heightened awareness, Illinois State Police Director Brendan Kelly told the Tribune in a recent interview.

The awareness is growing, and that is where the thrust of our effort has to be. Its simply making people aware that they have this option, Kelly said. And then, as we do that, eliminating any barriers or challenges that may be there from a technical standpoint or a legal standpoint to simplifying the process.

Still, gaps in the available data remain. Theres no data available from the courts that show the number of firearms restraining orders that are requested but denied by a judge, leaving an incomplete picture of whether more have been requested after Highland Park or if judges have been more likely to grant them.

At the same time, lawmakers still need to consider a series of recommendations from a state police-led panel assembled prior to the Highland Park shooting to find ways to further strengthen the law. Illinois also still lags behind other states in its use of firearms restraining orders despite the efforts by law enforcement officials, legislators and others.

The events of Highland Park raised the firearms restraining orders profile significantly across the state, Kelly said, speaking for Illinois. While its not clear that the red flag laws we have here would have definitely prevented that circumstance, it did catalyze and ignite a lot of conversation among law enforcement, mental health professionals, school administrators, and other stakeholders about why or why not these tools are being used on a daily basis.

Although distinct, firearms restraining orders and clear and present danger reports have generally the same purpose. Firearm restraining orders, however, must be granted by a judge and can only be requested by law enforcement or certain people close to the subject in question. Clear and present danger reports can be filed by other individuals, including school administrators and mental health professionals, and can be used by state police in determining whether to revoke someones firearm owners identification card or deny a FOID card application.

State police changed the way the latter are handled in direct response to gaps exposed by the particulars of the case of Robert Crimo III, the alleged Highland Park gunman who awaits trial on murder charges.

His father, Robert Crimo Jr., also awaits trial on felony reckless conduct charges for helping his son acquire a FOID card more than two years before the shooting, despite reports to police that the son tried to kill himself and threatened to kill others, according to authorities.

The younger Crimo was able to obtain a FOID card just months after Highland Park police in September 2019 filed a clear and present danger report. That was because the report wasnt retained after it was determined he didnt have a firearm permit at the time or a pending application for one, state police have said.

After the July 4 shooting, the state police codified in its administrative rules the agencys ability to retain clear and present danger reports even if the subject doesnt have a FOID card or a pending application on file and isnt deemed to be an imminent threat. The agency would be able to use such reports in evaluating future FOID card applications.

According to the state police, as a result of the rule changes, it retained 6,413 clear and present danger reports that previously could have had to be discarded out of a total of 11,812 reports filed from July 1, 2022 through May 31. Those 6,413 reports represented instances where the subject did not have a FOID card or pending application.

Those 11,812 reports also resulted in 5,181 FOID cards being revoked or applications being denied, more than double the 2,378 revocations and denials during the same period the previous year.

The Illinois Criminal Justice Information Authority, a state agency focused on research and analysis, told the Tribune they do not have data showing how many firearm restraining order petitions were filed overall. The Administrative Office of the Illinois Courts also does not have that information. Cook County Chief Judge Timothy Evans office approved the Tribunes request to receive local FRO data, but that data was not made available before press time.

Kelly acknowledged the gap, saying even his agency cant track the number of total firearm restraining order requests because it only learns of the orders once judges have signed off.

If theres a mechanism to be developed that would show that, I think that could reveal what are the fact patterns that result in a firearms restraining order being denied? he said. What does the court see that says, Hey, this may not be enough or this does meet the burden of proof?

Its a relevant question, added Kelly, due to the higher burden of proof for a firearms restraining order compared to a clear and present danger report.

Prosecutors do not directly request firearm restraining orders; that must be done by police, a relative or someone else close to the subject. But state law allows prosecutors to assist in filing petitions, and some states attorneys offices in Illinois have integrated themselves into the process.

DuPage County has had 95 firearm restraining orders granted since the law took effect in 2019. Thats more than any other county in Illinois. Cook County had the second most petitions filed with 64, followed by Lake County with 49 and Kane County with 17, according to state police data.

Republican DuPage County States Attorney Robert Berlin credits the countys high number of petitions to an aggressive push for training and awareness among prosecutors and police.

We have direct contact with the police on these matters. And we want to make sure that theyre done correctly, Berlin said.

In Lake County, home to Highland Park, the prosecutors office has hosted training sessions for local law enforcement and other interested parties on firearms restraining orders in response to the July Fourth shooting. The most recent session, in late June, had more than 60 participants.

Eric Rinehart, the countys Democratic top prosecutor, agreed the spike in firearms restraining orders since the shooting could probably be attributed to increased awareness. The tragedy sparked significant public conversations about red flag laws, as well as clear and present danger notifications.

Its important that we think about all of the different ways that we can regulate who has firearms, Rinehart said. I think we are all committed to developing a multilateral approach and collaborative approach with law enforcement, with schools and with health care providers, to make sure that we are finding, identifying and then isolating individuals who should not have firearms.

Rinehart stressed that firearms restraining orders are only one way of taking guns from potentially dangerous people. Any judge presiding over a criminal case can order a defendant to turn over their weapons as a condition of being released on bond, for example.

Of the firearms restraining orders requested in Lake County, most have to do with the gun owners potential mental health issues, not a criminal case, Rinehart said. He also said his office is working to spread word about clear and present danger reports, recently sending a letter to local schools reminding administrators of their obligation to notify state police if they believe someone poses a threat.

Chicagos endemic gun violence is largely carried out by those who do not own guns legally, limiting the reach of FROs. But law enforcement in Cook County told the Tribune that FROs are still in the mix.

A spokesperson for Democratic States Attorney Kim Foxx did not make anyone available for an interview. But in answers to written questions, the office stated that Cook County assistant states attorneys assigned to the offices mental health and domestic violence units help people with emergency firearms restraining order petitions when the petitioner needs help.

As part of the gun and magazine ban, lawmakers extended the duration of when firearms restraining orders can go into effect from six months to up to one year, with a renewal option.

Ed Sullivan, a contract lobbyist for the Illinois State Rifle Association, which is one of several gun rights entities challenging Gov. J.B. Pritzkers gun and magazine ban in court, said no one wants firearms to end up in the wrong hands. But hes concerned the firearms restraining order law could have adverse effects on legal gun owners, particularly if theyre involved in messy court disputes with ex-spouses.

We feel that the red flag law is unfortunately going in the wrong direction and can ultimately harm law-abiding citizens through false accusations, and well be tracking that to see if indeed that pans out, said Sullivan.

After the shooting, state Rep. Bob Morgan, a Deerfield Democrat who was with his family at the Highland Park parade when the first shots were fired, headed a working group of lawmakers focused on finding ways to reduce gun violence.

The result was the gun and magazine ban, which is currently awaiting rulings in separate legal challenges to the Illinois Supreme Court and 7th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals over the laws constitutionality.

Going forward, Morgan wants to review the process by which a gun owner accused in an order of protection for domestic violence would have to surrender their firearms.

Currently, such gun owners are generally required to turn in their guns to other FOID card holders in certain court proceedings if theyre named in such a petition. But this spring, the Illinois House passed a broad firearms safety bill that included a provision that would require them to only surrender their guns to law enforcement until the matter is resolved. The measure, however, hasnt made it through the Senate.

Morgan emphasized efforts still need to be made to educate the public about the laws Illinois has in place.

The vast majority of discussions around education and implementation of the firearms restraining orders are still relatively in their infancy, Morgan said.

Photos: Fourth of July shooting in Highland Park Shooting-July Fourth Parade Shooting July Fourth Parade Shooting July Fourth Parade Shooting-July Fourth Parade Shooting July Fourth Parade Shooting-July Fourth Parade Shooting July Fourth Parade Shooting July Fourth Parade Shooting July Fourth Parade Shooting July Fourth Parade Shooting July Fourth Parade Shooting July Fourth Parade Shooting-July Fourth Parade Shooting July Fourth Parade Shooting July Fourth Parade Shooting July Fourth Parade Shooting July Fourth Parade Shooting July Fourth Parade Shooting July Fourth Parade
HIGHLAND PARK  Shane Selig often volunteered to provide security for the Highland Park Independence Day parade, a typically low-stress job where the biggest threat to public safety occurred when people carelessly walked in front of floats or children darted into the street to grab poorly tossed candy.

These are the so-called dangers that weighed mostly heavily on his mind as he pedaled down the Central Avenue on July 4, 2022. The parade had begun about 15 minutes earlier, bringing the usual mix of marching bands, local veterans and politicians that made it one of the most well-attended Fourth of July events along the North Shore.

Thats when Selig heard the pop.

He thought it was a firecracker. Many people assumed it was a firecracker at first, a reflection of how small a role gun violence had played in the affluent community.

Selig swung his bike around and headed toward the sound as spectators ran the other way. He saw someone lying on the ground, showing no signs of life. He started CPR.

The popping sounds continued. He sought cover. A police officer pulled out his gun.

By then, Selig knew.

These werent firecrackers.

He was in the middle of a mass shooting, a mere secondslong attack in which seven people were killed and 48 others injured.

Highland Park will mark the tragedy Tuesday with a series of somber events meant to balance the diverse needs of a community permanently scarred  both physically and emotionally  by the shooting. The day will begin with a remembrance ceremony at City Hall to honor those killed: Katherine Goldstein, Irina McCarthy, Kevin McCarthy, Jacquelyn Sundheim, Stephen Straus, Nicolas Toledo-Zargoza and Eduardo Uvaldo.

There will be a moment of silence at 10:14 a.m. to mark the first shots fired, followed by a community walk at 11 a.m. down the traditional parade route. There will be no floats, no performers, no official spectators. Attendees must pre-register and pass through metal detectors to participate.

City officials have said the walk symbolizes the communitys desire to reclaim the town and rebuild its resiliency. Those efforts, however, began organically in the days and weeks immediately after the tragedy and continue to grow.

Its rooted in paradegoers like Selig, who returned home from the shooting covered in blood and determined to do something. He has since visited Springfield and Washington, D.C. to advocate for change. He doesnt push for a specific policy, but he feels certain that people should know what assault rifles can do and that fears about mass shootings shouldnt be part of American life.

I wasnt able to save everyone that day, said Selig, a software engineering manager trained in emergency response. But Im still trying to do something.

Other survivors have used their voices in similar ways, pressing lawmakers to pass tougher gun laws. Dozens have filed lawsuits aimed at gun manufacturers, two gun stores, the 22-year-old alleged shooter, Robert E. Crimo III, and his father.

And many of them share their stories  traumatic, painful stories  over and over again, in the hopes that people listen. Each telling, without question, an act of reclamation and rebuilding.

Joe Leslie, his wife and their two young children were watching a military float roll past when the shooting started. He grabbed his oldest daughter, his wife grabbed the younger one, and they began running. The couple lost each other amid the chaos, as they focused solely on getting a child out of harms way.

She dove into nearby bushes. He ran into a nearby Starbucks and sheltered in a large bathroom there, with about 30 other terrified parade attendees.

After about 10 minutes in the coffee shop, Leslie, his 4-year-old daughter and some others ran to a nearby apartment building because they thought it would be safer. They spent about 45 minutes in the buildings stairwell, listening for sounds of more shooting before a woman welcomed them into her apartment, he said.

He tried to keep his daughter calm, an arduous task given the number of people screaming and crying.

I was just telling her that were playing a game, Leslie said. She was freaking out a little, but I downplayed it as best I could. And after a while she calmed down and was vaguely normal about it.

The girl is now 5.

She doesnt know what happened that day, he said. Im sure shell find out in the not-too-distant future, in some way. Well probably have to explain it to her. But for now shes kind of blissfully oblivious.

Leslie, for his part, is frustrated. A native of England, he knows that gun violence is a uniquely American epidemic. He doesnt want to be political, but the statistics are undeniable. The homicide rate from gun violence in the United States is 22 times greater than the European Union and 23 times greater than Australia, according to a 2022 report published by the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation at the University of Washington.

Im kind of beating a drum thats been beaten many times, but you compare it to other countries and the numbers tell a story, Leslie said. The reason that I mention this is, that way there is no closure for us from this. I dont feel like this has been resolved. Its not like someone did something and then they were punished. Its like theres an existential threat, always. This is the situation for everyone in the U.S.

Within two days of the shooting, a gun violence prevention group called March Fourth formed. The group held a demonstration in Washington, D.C., on July 13, 2022, with many Highland Park survivors among the 500 participants.

Using a combination of unassailable facts and raw emotion, the organization has since lobbied members of Congress to pass an assault weapons ban.

March Fourth is doing great work and pushing our government in the right direction, said Northbrook resident Carrie Mangoubi, a spectator at the 2022 parade, but it takes time. I just wish that we would have policies in place already to protect the innocent people in our country.

Mangoubi, her husband and their three kids fled the parade scene after hearing people shouting about a shooter just a couple of blocks away. She has struggled with PTSD symptoms for a couple of months after the parade, including a racing heart, flashbacks of her family running for safety and persistent fears about her childrens future.

I think the experience made me a lot more aware of different vulnerabilities in our lives, she said. Some we can control. Some we cant control. And we just have to be as careful as possible.

This pervasive threat

Highland Park Mayor Nancy Rotering has spent the past year addressing those vulnerabilities, as she spoke directly with President Joseph Biden about the need for an assault weapons ban and lobbied lawmakers for tougher laws. A week after the shooting, she stood on the White House lawn and called for a ban on high-capacity magazines like the one used in her towns shooting.

She had been walking in the parade when the first shot rang out, followed by 82 more from three 30-round magazines. She does not believe the tragedy has come to define her city, but it unquestionably is now part of its fabric. Some residents tell her they cannot deal with large crowds, feel unexpected waves of emotion or are startled by loud noises, she said.

Many Americans may have followed the Highland Park shooting on the news for a day or two, Rotering said, but then they returned to their every day lives. People in her town are still living with it.

A traumatic and terrorizing event like this doesnt go away, she said.

The mayor has heard hundreds of stories about irremediable loss and fears like people had never experienced. As a result, city leaders have taken a trauma-informed approach in planning this years Fourth of July commemoration, being careful with words and deliberative in planning how to remember the shooting.

One third grader on a class visit to City Hall asked Rotering if theyd ever again get to celebrate Independence Day. It broke her heart, she said.

And I promised them that, absolutely, we will be able to celebrate the Fourth of July again, but first, we need to remember our neighbors and what they lost last year and then as a community reclaim that space, she said.

Though sensitive to the needs of residents  including members of her family  who were at the parade, Rotering has been aggressive in her support for tougher gun laws. In addition to lobbying at the federal level, she was a strong supporter of a new Illinois law banning the sale of military-style weapons and high-capacity magazines.

Gov. J.B. Pritzker signed the legislation shortly after its passage, with Rotering standing behind him. Highland Park has had a similar ban since 2013 and it survived a court challenge two years later, when the U.S. Supreme Court refused to hear an appeal of a lower-court ruling upholding the local law.

There are multiple lawsuits arguing the Illinois law is unconstitutional. Rotering has expressed confidence it will survive those legal battles.

The parade shooting, however, proves that states and local communities cannot be lone islands in gun control efforts, she said. She has long argued it will require a national assault ban to address the problem.

For us to think were celebrating freedom when we live with this pervasive threat is not accurate, she said. We are not currently free until these weapons are taken out of the hands of civilians.

While Rotering has taken the fight to Illinois lawmakers and the U.S. Congress, several shooting victims brought it directly to gun manufacturers. Dozens of people who were shot or whose family members were killed have filed a lawsuit against Smith & Wesson, which produced the M&P15 rifle that authorities say Crimo used when he opened fire from atop a building along the parade route.

Gun manufacturers have historically been protected from lawsuits like this under the Protection of Lawful Commerce in Arms Act, a law Congress passed in 2005 that gives gun manufacturers and dealers broad immunity from lawsuits. Attorneys, however, believe they have found an exception that will allow the case to proceed, arguing Smith & Wesson violated Illinois consumer protection laws by using deceptive marketing and advertising to sell the M&P15 as a military weapon to civilians.

It was people like Crimo, the lawsuit contends, that Smith & Wesson targeted as the company sought to make more money through such marketing, which also promised more adrenaline and encouraged consumers to kick brass.

Crimo purchased the weapon online from a Kentucky gun shop and picked up the weapon at a suburban gun store, which facilitated the legal transfer, the lawsuit said. Both businesses knew Crimo had addresses in Highland Park and Highwood, the lawsuit said, and that he was a resident of a municipality that prohibited the possession of such weapons.

The former YouTube rapper has pleaded not guilty to 117 charges, including 21 counts of first-degree murder stemming from the mass shooting. He remains in Lake County Jail pending trial.

His father, Robert Crimo Jr., is named as a defendant because he sponsored his sons application for a gun permit, which is required for gun purchases in Illinois, despite knowing that Highland Park police were called to a Crimo home twice, once because the younger Crimo had attempted suicide and another time because he had threatened family members.

The elder Crimo also faces criminal charges in connection with the shooting, having been charged with seven counts of reckless conduct for helping his son obtain a gun license. He has pleaded not guilty.

Is this what death is?

Lauren Bennett is among the shooting victims who joined the lawsuit, which was filed in Lake County last September. She had just grabbed a cup of coffee and rejoined her family at a prime spot in front of Walker Bros. Original Pancake House when she heard a popping sound and saw something flying.

She felt a twinge at her hip, looked down and saw blood.

Were under attack, she screamed.

She stood up to run. Another bullet hit her in the back. She dove into a bush, separated from her family.

OK, Ive been shot. Am I dying? Is this what death is? she thought to herself.

Time seemed to stall as she hid. She saw bodies on the ground amid pooling blood. Adults screamed and kids cried. It seemed like an entire militia was attacking, she recalled.

And I remember thinking, No, this is not it. Were not done yet, Bennett said.

She jumped up when she saw her husband and two younger sons, 7 and 10 years old, rushing past. Her mother-in-law, who had been shot too, had a candy bag wrapped around her arm. Bennett would later learn her own mother had also been struck by shrapnel.

The family ran to the car and raced to Highland Park Hospital. Bennett was the first patient to arrive, she said. She told emergency department staff what was coming. They checked her vitals, looked at her wounds and put in an IV.

Within minutes, victims began flooding in. Several were more severely injured than Bennett, she recalled.

Her hip wound continued to bleed for the next six weeks. She could walk, but not well. She couldnt be upright for long. It wasnt until over a month after the shooting that the pain began to subside.

Thats when my brain started dealing with the trauma of the day, she said. I had to heal first, and then we could deal with the mind.

As she readjusted, Bennett focused on her kids. She drove out to her 13-year-old sons summer camp in Minnesota, just to show him that I was here, and I was alive. I could stand, I could walk. Mom was gonna be OK.

Therapy has helped, but nothing more than the close-knit family she leans on, she said. They saw what she saw.

In addition to joining the lawsuit, she has pushed lawmakers to pass an assault weapons ban. Each time she tells her story, she relives the fear, chaos and pain of that day.

It is a small price to pay if it leads to change, she said. There arent many people who can look her in the face and say owning an assault rifle is more important than her life or any other life, she said.

She knows some people dont want to hear that.

Ill make them hear it, Bennett said.

Attorney Antonio Romanucci, whose Romanucci & Blandin law firm represents many of the victims and their families, says the shooting has changed his clients lives in a multitude of ways. They see and hear things differently. They live with an anger that does not ebb, he said, and it leaves them uniquely determined.

Not only do they retain that anger, but they want to make damn sure that there is change, Romanucci said. Thats why theyve been to Washington, and thats why theyve been to Springfield. And thats why they visit with the governor and the president of our country, because they want change.

And yet you cant accept it

Some mental health experts say advocating for change can help survivors cope after traumatic events. Tali Raviv, a clinical psychologist and associate director of the Center for Childhood Resilience at Lurie Childrens Hospital, has seen the positive impact advocacy efforts have on people coping with trauma.

The amount of suffering that continues and multiplies from these kinds of incidents is really just devastating, Raviv said. This is the reason I think we all need to be more vocal for advocating for gun control and those kinds of things. I think a really good, healthy way of coping when youve been through something like this is to get yourself involved in advocacy. Whatever that looks like for you, regardless of your political orientation. Doing something to make a change  whether thats advocating for more mental health supports, whether thats advocating for more gun control  whatever that is.

Jon Straus, whose father was killed in the shooting, is among those trying to do something.

His 88-year-old father, Stephen, took his family to Highland Parks Fourth of July parade nearly every year as he raised his family. He loved to be where the action was, so he went by himself last summer and was fatally shot.

In the year since the shooting, Straus has become the primary caretaker for his mother, Linda. He also helped sell the family home where Jon grew up and Linda spent most of her 59-year marriage with Stephen.

Jon Straus isnt sure what hell do this July 4, but he doubts the day will be harder or easier than any day over the last year. Even now, the adjustments continue. At some point, he accepted his fathers death, he said.

And yet you cant accept it, he said. It just kind of gnaws at you, that things ended that way.

He says hes angered, both by his fathers senseless death and the fact that mass shootings have become commonplace in the United States. He has joined others in the lawsuits because, in part, he worries that mass shootings have become so frequent  there were 647 shootings in 2022 in which four or more people were wounded or killed, according to the Gun Violence Archive, which tracks mass events  that the issue has grown stale.

Its hard for other people to understand how a loved one can be taken away so suddenly and senselessly and how that changes ones life, he said. But he wants them to think about it.

It happens. Are you OK with it or not? he said. And it seems like some people are.

Dr. Brigham Temple, an emergency medicine physician, fled the parade route with his family when he saw high school band members running away. By the time he got to his car, his pager alerted him to the victims en route to the medical center.

Fifteen minutes later, he was in the emergency department running a mass shooting response, one of many similar plans hes made as NorthShore University HealthSystems emergency preparedness director.

As nearly two dozen people arrived at the hospital by foot, car and ambulance, Temple assessed their vital signs and breathing. He checked their wounds and, if they could talk, listened to what they were saying about their injuries.

Between patients, he told the influx of volunteer nurses and physician assistants what to do. He saw more patients that day than he had ever seen, running on adrenaline and awe at the well-coordinated effort executed by a hospital staff that dropped everything to save lives.

In the year since, Temple has attended vigils and visited the downtown intersection where the shooting occurred. He saw the memorials honoring murdered victims, some of whom he had cared for.

The communitys bond helped him recover quickly, he said. Hes excited to see Highland Park move forward, as long as the bigger lessons arent lost.

We should never forget what happens, Temple said. We need to continue to be advocates for peace and safety and caring about each other. But we do have to move past, sometimes, the tragedy.

Victims of Highland Park shooting remembered for kindness, warmth Irina and Kevin McCarthy, 35 and 37 Jacki Sundheim, 63 Nicolas Toledo, 78 Stephen Straus Another man fighting for his life
The Dufia of Mafi Adidome, Togbe Kwasinyi Kakaklolo Agyeman V, has officially launched the Mafi Adidome Development Advisory Board, marking a significant milestone in fostering development and progress for Adidome. The establishment of this Board is to help drive the key focus areas of the Chief. These focus areas are Education, Youth development and human well-being which includes health and employment for livelihoods.



The Board was launched during the celebration of coronation of the Chief who was enstooled in August 2021 by the Kingmakers and Council of Elders of the Toh/Tovie Clan of Mafi Adidome in the Volta Region. The occasion which was held under the theme Celebrating a New Dawn in Mafi Adidome: Uniting for Peace and Development, witnessed the participation of Chiefs and Queenmothers from Mafi State, Anlo and other places, the townsfolk, local leaders, politicians, corporate leaders and many more. The occasion was also used to outdoor the new Queenmother of Adidome, Mama Drape III who is known in private life as Ms. Stella Fiagbenu.



In his address, Togbe Agyeman emphasized the importance of collective efforts and unity in tackling the challenges faced by the people of Mafi Adidome. He highlighted the need for such a Board to be established to help drive the development and local economic growth to ultimately enhance the quality of life of the people.



The Mafi Adidome Development Advisory Board (MADAB) consists of individuals from diverse professional backgrounds, including business, education, law, town planning, healthcare and others. Each member brings a wealth of experience, expertise, and a deep commitment to the town's welfare. Together, they will collaborate and provide strategic guidance to drive development initiatives in Mafi Adidome. He said with Mafi Adidome being the district and constituency capital of Central Tongu, the formation of this Board is going to be a concept template that will be extended to cover the entire Mafi state and other parts of Tongu in partnership with other traditional rulers.



Togbe Agyeman further outlined the key focus areas or terms of reference for the Advisory Board, which include attracting investments, fostering collaborations with government agencies and non-profit organizations, generating employment opportunities, and advising on strategies that will help empower the youth through education and also give them required skills.



The Board which will be chaired by Dr. Gideon Quarcoo, a former deputy Minister of Communications with Mr. Dan Kofi Okudzeto, a business magnate and Chairman of Allied Oil as its Vice Chairman, will also serve as a platform for innovative brainstorming, and project initiation, with the aim of transforming Mafi Adidome into a prosperous town, the Chief said.



He expressed utmost confidence in the Board's ability to steer Mafi Adidome into a well-resourced (education and skills), developed and prosperous town in the Volta Region. He thanked members of the Board for accepting this heavy extra responsibility to be of service to their people, in spite their busy schedules.



Furthermore, the Dufia of Adidome, Togbe Kwasinyi Kakaklolo Agyeman V, reaffirmed his commitment to working with the Government, the District Assembly, civil society and any well-meaning agencies to improve education and achieve the set developmental goals. To this end, he announced that a library project will soon take off in collaboration with Rainbow Trust Foundation.



The launch of the Mafi Adidome Development Advisory Board signifies a new era of collaboration, progress, and prosperity for Adidome, as it moves forward with a united vision for the betterment of the town and its people. It is the hope of the Chief that, this new era of development will trickle down to the entire Mafi State.



In accepting the assignment on behalf of the members of the Board, the Chairman, Dr. Quarcoo thanked Togbe Agyeman for the confidence reposed in them, and assured him of the Boards full resolve and commitment to work assiduously together as a team to deliver on their mandate in serving their people. Togbe and the people of Adidome can therefore count on us to do this and do it well to the benefit of all, he concluded.



The 17-member Board includes: Dr. Gideon Quarcoo, who is the Chairman of the Board as well as a principal elder and the official Spokesperson of the Toh/Tovie Clan. Mr. Dan Kofi Okudzeto, the Vice Chairman is Chairman of Allied Oil and its affiliate companies. The others are Togbe Asamoankwanta III, a businessman, Dr. Emmanuel Akwetey  Executive Director of IDEG, Mr. Ben Tamakloe  Financial Consultant, Mr. David Yengbe  Businessman, Mr. Bright Amlalo  Businessman and Town Planning Expert, Mrs. Margarette Armah -Health Professional (USA).



Other members are: Mrs. Gifty Azumah  Businesswoman, Mr. Stephen Dotse  Lawyer and Mrs. Georgina Asare Fiagbenu  Communications for Development Expert. The rest are Mr. Rowland Korku Blagogee  Businessman & CEO of AMAXROW Ltd, Mr. Ebenezer Bernard Amissah  Sales and Marketing Strategist & MD of IFKUICK Ltd, Mr. Daniel Amuzu  Civil Engineer and Contractor, Mr. Humphrey Kofiloto (USA), Mr. Noble Mensa Fiagbenu  Businessman & Managing Director of Woodeck Company Ltd and Mr. Mawuli Ahoto  An Entrepreneur & CEO of Radio 7. There will be an additional representation from the District Assembly, appointed in consultation with the DCE of the Central Tongu District.



The Dufia announced that in addition to the Board, there will be a number of working committees, including the Committee on Youth Mobilisation for Development whose activities will be coordinated by Mr. Prince Bisansu Fiagbenu.

Source: Peacefmonline com









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

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The Member of Parliament for Yendi, Alhaji Farouk Aliu Mahama has donated a brand new Mitsubishi pickups to Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia to support the 2024 presidential campaign of the Vice President.



Dr. Bawumia is tipped to emerge as the next flagbearer of the NPP for the 2024 elections and with campaign activities intensifying, Farouk Aliu Mahama is donating the high-performing vehicle to support the campaign.



The vehicle is to support operational activities of the Bawumia 2024 Campaign in the eastern corridor of the country which includes the Yendi, Bimbila, Zabzugu, Wulensi, Kpandai constituencies, among others.



The Yendi MP has already branded the vehicle, brandishing it with pictures of Dr. Bawumia and a campaign slogan "Next To Lead" boldly written on the cars.



Farouk Aliu Mahama is one of the most formidable northern MPs, having turned the Yendi constituency into a fortress for the NPP by winning the last two elections by emphatic margins.



He has vowed to use his influence together with other MPs to support and ensure decisive victory for Dr. Bawumia in the upcoming NPP Primaries.

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.

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Early on Sunday morning, July 2, a shooting rampage at a block party in the Brooklyn neighborhood of South Baltimore left two dead and many wounded.

The 800 block of Gretna Court was the scene of at least 30 shooting victims. The incident occurred while people were celebrating the Fourth of July in their communities, according to The Baltimore Sun. At around 1:30 in the morning, police said they received reports of gunfire.

Mass Shooting at South Baltimore Block Party Injures 28, Kills 2

Two people, an 18-year-old young woman who was pronounced dead at the scene and a 20-year-old who was taken to the hospital, were killed. Officials said three others are in critical condition, as reported by CBS News.

The University of Maryland Medical System said 12 patients have been sent to the Shock Trauma Center, while four more are being cared for in the pediatric emergency room.

Police discovered multiple victims with gunshot wounds upon arrival at the scene. During a press conference held at the site, Baltimore City's acting police commissioner, Richard Worley, said that nine people were taken to the hospital by ambulance, and another 20 went directly to the hospitals throughout the region.

Several police officers were still at the site several hours after the incident, investigating the area that had several two-story apartment buildings. As people fled the gunfire, they allegedly abandoned folding tables and plastic glasses.

See Also: New Mexico: Fatal Shootout Erupts at Motorcycle Rally, Leaving 3 Dead and 5 Injured

No One Was Taken Into Custody Yet

Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott arrived at the site shortly thereafter.

"We will not stop until we find those cowards who decided to just shoot dozens of people, causing two people to lose their lives. And we're going to be here until we find them, until we hold them accountable, until they are held accountable for the actions they took because we cannot rest until they do so. Again our thoughts and prayers are with the entire community and city," Scott stated.

There were no immediate arrests made after the incident. Daily Mail reported that the police are asking for anybody who may have seen the crime or has information to come forward.

Officials have not revealed a motive for the shooting but have stated they are interviewing witnesses and going through surveillance footage in an effort to identify suspects.

The crime scene, according to the authorities, was quite large, and the investigation would take some time.

Contact the Baltimore Police homicide detectives at 410-396-2100 or Metro Crime Stoppers at 1-866-7LOCKUP if you have any information that might help the investigation.

Earlier this week, Baltimore's federal prosecutors praised the city's progress in reducing violent crime. There have been less than 130 killings and about 300 gunshots documented by police this year. The government has promised to take a hard stance against those who repeatedly commit acts of violence, as Daily Mail reported.

See Also: Texas Authorities Identify the Shooter in a Mall Shooting That Killed 8 People as a Potential Neo-Nazi Sympathizer

@ 2023 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce 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:

This undated photo provided by researchers in June 2023 shows the Arecibo Telescope in Puerto Rico. This and several other telescopes around the world were used to observe the slow gravitational waves  faint ripples made by massive black holes  that are constantly stretching and squeezing everything in the universe ever so slightly, described in a report released on Wednesday, June 28, 2023. Credit: NAIC via AP

Scientists have observed for the first time the faint ripples caused by the motion of black holes that are gently stretching and squeezing everything in the universe.

They reported Wednesday that they were able to "hear" what are called low-frequency gravitational waveschanges in the fabric of the universe that are created by huge objects moving around and colliding in space.

"It's really the first time that we have evidence of just this large-scale motion of everything in the universe," said Maura McLaughlin, co-director of NANOGrav, the research collaboration that published the results in The Astrophysical Journal Letters.

Einstein predicted that when really heavy objects move through spacetimethe fabric of our universethey create ripples that spread through that fabric. Scientists sometimes liken these ripples to the background music of the universe.

In 2015, scientists used an experiment called LIGO to detect gravitational waves for the first time and showed Einstein was right. But so far, those methods have only been able to catch waves at high frequencies, explained NANOGrav member Chiara Mingarelli, an astrophysicist at Yale University.

Those quick "chirps" come from specific moments when relatively small black holes and dead stars crash into each other, Mingarelli said.

This illustration provided by researchers in June 2023 depicts gravitational waves stretching and squeezing space-time in the universe. On Wednesday, June 28, 2023, researchers reported signals from what they call low-frequency gravitational waves  changes in the fabric of the universe that are created by huge objects moving around and colliding in space. It took decades of work by scientists across the globe to track down the evidence for these super-slow wobbles. Credit: Aurore Simonnet/NANOGrav Collaboration

In the latest research, scientists were searching for waves at much lower frequencies. These slow ripples can take years or even decades to cycle up and down, and probably come from some of the biggest objects in our universe: supermassive black holes billions of times the mass of our sun.

Galaxies across the universe are constantly colliding and merging together. As this happens, scientists believe the enormous black holes at the centers of these galaxies also come together and get locked into a dance before they finally collapse into each other, explained Szabolcs Marka, an astrophysicist at Columbia University who was not involved with the research.

The black holes send off gravitational waves as they circle around in these pairings, known as binaries.

"Supermassive black hole binaries, slowly and calmly orbiting each other, are the tenors and bass of the cosmic opera," Marka said.

This photo provided by researchers shows NANOGrav team members meeting at Green Bank Observatory in Green Bank, W. Va., in 2018. On Wednesday, June 28, 2023, researchers reported signals from what they call low-frequency gravitational waves  changes in the fabric of the universe that are created by huge objects moving around and colliding in space. It took decades of work by scientists across the globe to track down the evidence for these super-slow wobbles. Credit: NANOGrav via AP

No instruments on Earth could capture the ripples from these giants. So "we had to build a detector that was roughly the size of the galaxy," said NANOGrav researcher Michael Lam of the SETI Institute.

The results released this week included 15 years of data from NANOGrav, which has been using telescopes across North America to search for the waves. Other teams of gravitational wave hunters around the world also published studies, including in Europe, India, China and Australia.

The scientists pointed telescopes at dead stars called pulsars, which send out flashes of radio waves as they spin around in space like lighthouses.

These bursts are so regular that scientists know exactly when the radio waves are supposed to arrive on our planet"like a perfectly regular clock ticking away far out in space," said NANOGrav member Sarah Vigeland, an astrophysicist at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. But as gravitational waves warp the fabric of spacetime, they actually change the distance between Earth and these pulsars, throwing off that steady beat.

This undated photo provided by researchers in June 2023 shows the Green Bank Observatory in Green Bank, W. Va. This and several other telescopes around the world were used to observe the slow gravitational waves  faint ripples made by massive black holes  that are constantly stretching and squeezing everything in the universe ever so slightly, described in a report released on Wednesday, June 28, 2023. Credit: Jay Young/Green Bank Observatory via AP

By analyzing tiny changes in the ticking rate across different pulsarswith some pulses coming slightly early and others coming latescientists could tell that gravitational waves were passing through.

The NANOGrav team monitored 68 pulsars across the sky using the Green Bank Telescope in West Virginia, the Arecibo telescope in Puerto Rico and the Very Large Array in New Mexico. Other teams found similar evidence from dozens of other pulsars, monitored with telescopes across the globe.

So far, this method hasn't been able to trace where exactly these low-frequency waves are coming from, said Marc Kamionkowski, an astrophysicist at Johns Hopkins University who was not involved with the research.

Instead, it's revealing the constant hum that is all around uslike when you're standing in the middle of a party, "you'll hear all of these people talking, but you won't hear anything in particular," Kamionkowski said.

This undated photo provided by researchers in June 2023 shows the Very Large Array radio telescope in New Mexico. This and several other telescopes around the world were used to observe the slow gravitational waves  faint ripples made by massive black holes  that are constantly stretching and squeezing everything in the universe ever so slightly, described in a report released on Wednesday, June 28, 2023. Credit: NRAO/AUI/NSF via AP

Journalists and scientists attend a news conference to discuss the contributions of Chinese scientists using the Five-hundred-meter Aperture Spherical Telescope (FAST) in southern China to an international collaboration on gravitational waves at the National Astronomical Observatories of the Chinese Academy of Sciences (NAOC) in Beijing, Tuesday, June 27, 2023. On Wednesday, June 28, 2023, researchers reported signals from what they call low-frequency gravitational waves  changes in the fabric of the universe that are created by huge objects moving around and colliding in space. It took decades of work by scientists across the globe to track down the evidence for these super-slow wobbles. Credit: AP Photo/Mark Schiefelbein

The background noise they found is "louder" than some scientists expected, Mingarelli said. This could mean that there are more, or bigger, black hole mergers happening out in space than we thoughtor point to other sources of gravitational waves that could challenge our understanding of the universe.

Researchers hope that continuing to study this kind of gravitational waves can help us learn more about the biggest objects in our universe. It could open new doors to "cosmic archaeology" that can track the history of black holes and galaxies merging all around us, Marka said.

"We're starting to open up this new window on the universe," Vigeland said.

More information: Gabriella Agazie et al, The NANOGrav 15 yr Data Set: Evidence for a Gravitational-wave Background, The Astrophysical Journal Letters (2023). DOI: 10.3847/2041-8213/acdac6 Journal information: Astrophysical Journal Letters

 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:

Deforestation has drastically reduced the surface area of Ivorian forests since the 1960s.

Nestle is stepping up its project to combat deforestation in Ivory Coast caused by the growth of cocoa farming, bringing cocoa trading companies directly on board.

Ivory Coast is the world's largest cocoa producer, at 40 percent of the global market.

The west African country had 16 million hectares of forest in the 1960sa figure which is now down to less than three million, mainly due to cocoa plantations.

Nestle, the Swiss food giant behind chocolate brands like KitKat and Smarties, launched a project in 2020 aimed at restoring and protecting the Cavally Forest in southwest Ivory Coast.

One of the last remaining dense forests in the country, Cavally is a biodiversity reserve covering more than 67,000 hectares, but is threatened by deforestation linked to the cocoa industry and illegal gold panning.

The Nestle project was a partnership with the Ivorian government and the Earthworm Foundation, an NGO that led the project's implementation.

At a media briefing this week at its headquarters in Vevey on Lake Geneva, Nestle said the first phase had led to "a significant reduction in deforestation", with the natural regeneration of 7,000 hectares and the reforestation of almost 1,500 hectares.

Nestle is based in the western Swiss town of Vevey.

Plenty at stake

For its second three-year phase, the Swiss trading company Cocoasource and the French firm Touton, which work directly with cocoa and rubber cooperatives in the area affected, have been brought on board.

The project has a budget of four million Swiss francs ($4.45 million).

It aims to strengthen the resilience of the communities on the edge of the forest, and improve the transparency and traceability of the cocoa and rubber supply chain.

Touton, which specializes in trading cocoa, coffee, vanilla and spices, wanted to join the project "because the first phase worked", deputy managing director Joseph Larrose told AFP.

"Collective effort makes it possible to protect the forest."

Restoring the Cavally Forest is in the cocoa industry's interests, he said.

"The very heart of our business is at stake. If tomorrow we no longer have an ecosystem favorable to the raw material we're trading, we no longer have access to this resource."

The Cavally Forest is in the southwestern Ivory Coast. The Cavally river forms the border with Liberia.

Julian Oram, the senior director for Africa at the NGO Mighty Earth, said the Nestle initiative was a valuable way of addressing deforestation.

However, "it's important that companies such as Nestle don't use agroforestry... as a way of avoiding changes to their core business practices: which is how they buy cocoa, including the prices they offer", he told AFP.

"Sustainability programs are no substitute for fair cocoa purchasing practices."

'Imported deforestation'

Global conservationist group WWF is a sharp critic of what it calls "imported deforestation".

It says that Swiss consumption of eight major raw materialsincluding cocoa, coconuts, coffee and palm oiloccupies more than twice the area of Switzerland's own forests.

The NGO says 54 percent of Switzerland's cocoa imports come from countries where the risk of deforestation is either high or very high.

A cocoa farmer dries cocoa beans in Satikran in eastern Ivory Coast. The country is the world's biggest cocoa producer.

In mid-April, the European Parliament adopted a regulation banning the import of products such as cocoa, coffee, palm oil or rubber if they came from land deforested after December 2020.

The objective is to curb deforestation outside the European Union, with the EU, according to the WWF, the second-biggest destroyer of tropical forests, after China. The NGO says the EU is responsible for 16 percent of global deforestation.

Swiss ministry signs up

Besides commodity traders, the Swiss economy ministry has joined the Cavally project.

Monica Rubiolo, head of trade promotion at the ministry, told the media briefing that Switzerland wanted to contribute to improving supply chains as the wealthy Alpine nation is "an important country" for trading and processing cocoa.

Nestle achieved a turnover of 8.1 billion Swiss francs in confectionery alone in 2022.

Nestle's turnover in confectionery alone was 8.1 billion Swiss francs ($9 billion) last year.

Switzerland has yet to follow its EU neighbors in terms of its legislation, lamented Romain Deveze, raw materials expert for the Swiss WWF.

"It would be good if we didn't have to wait 10 years for Switzerland to align itself with European regulations," he told AFP.

 2023 AFP
Before Xerox, there was Addressograph

First Published: 25/06/23

There is something in a treasure that fastens upon a man's mind. He will pray and blaspheme, and will curse the day he ever heard of it, and will let his last hour come upon him unawares, still believing that he missed it only by a foot. He will see it every time he closes his eyes. He will never forget it till he is deadand even then Doctor, did you ever hear of the miserable gringos on Azuera, that cannot die.

- Joseph Conrad, Nostromo

Stumbling upon a gem

I've been a student at NC State for just under two years now, and one of the most fascinating aspects of it is Hillsborough Street. Surrounding the main campus, this lively and cheerful street is home to some great food and boasts the evergreen Bell tower at one end. However, its lesser-known gem is a bookstore called the Reader's Corner.

What's truly fascinating about this spot is that you can buy some incredible books at an incredibly low price. Outside the store, there are shelves filled with used books, and the remarkable thing about these shelves is that any book on the left side of the store costs 25 cents, and on the right, it costs 10 cents. And if that's not enough, they update these shelves periodically with a variety of books. The store's owner, Irv Coats, has been running it since 1980 and donates all the proceeds from the outdoor book sales to NPR.

The store itself is absolutely fascinating as well. You can scan hundreds of comics, most of which are priced at a dollar. They also have an extensive collection of science fiction and detective stories, as well as fun items like posters, which usually cost around $2.

This month, when I visited the store, their poster collection caught my eye, and I decided to browse through their collection in the hope of finding inspiration for my next blog post. That's when I came across the following poster:

My poster appears to be an advertisement for an Addressograph.

Truth be told, this was the first time I heard of an Addressograph. So what does it do? What was the motivation behind its creation? And how does it work? Let's take a dive into an Addressograph.

What was the motivation behind its creation?

In 1892, Joseph Smith Duncan created the Addressograph, which is an addressing machine at its core. That is,

a business machine that automatically imprints names, addresses, or other information on successive envelopes or forms.

An addressing machine advertisement, quite possibly from the early 20th century. No known copyright restrictions seem to exist on this image.

At a first glance, automatically imprinting addresses may seem like a small feat, even for the 1890s. In fact, in the early 2010s I recall sending handwritten letters to my grandfather and he'd reply to me with letters bearing his stamped address. He'd invested in a rubber stamp with an ink pad for this purpose. Eventually, he switched to using address stickers.

Given that a rubber stamp would have sufficed during the 1890s, why create a mechanical device like this?

Well, during a 1918 interview for the Manufacturing and Wholesale Industries of Chicago (Volume 2), J.S. Duncan shared his thoughts on experimenting with rubber stamps:

With as little prospect of getting another position as there was in those days ( Duncan here is referring to the Panic of 1893 ), I began to wonder how I might use my small amount of capital in making a living. The addressing machine idea had been clinging to me persistently, and as I had a good deal of mechanical experience in my work at the mill, I decided to experiment with the hope of producing a device which could be marketed.

My first experiment was pretty crude. I glued the rubber parts of a number of hand stamps onto a big wooden drum. This drum was then revolved from one address to another to do the printing. The work was readable, and there was no chance to make mistakes in the addresses. But the drum only held a few names. How was it to take care of even a small mailing list such as we had at the bank? Clearly the plan was a failure, because it was not practical.

The motivation was to develop a more scalable version of the rubber stamp approach. It's worth mentioning that addressing machines existed even before the 1890s, but Addressograph emerged as one of the major victors of the 19th century. The Early Office Museum provides a more in-depth history of addressing machines. I also found Wright and Peck and H. Moeser's addressing machine from the 1860s particularly interesting.

Fascinatingly, Moeser's patent is concise and spells out how it operates:

The machine consists of levers, a slide, and a set of types, combined in such a manner that it is possible to print with it any number of names on papers or letters. Thus to print the names of subscribers on newspapers the following plan is pursued. The names (of persons or places) to be printed are set up in type in a column and secured in a form which moves by means of a slide beneath a stamp in such a manner that every Word in the column, one after another, is exposed to the action of the stamp, and so that paper after paper brought between the stamp and the types gets the proper impression.

Before the operation of the machine is to commence the whole set of names in the form is inked at once and put on the slide so that the first name in the column is right under the slit of the plate, and the impression is effected then by holding the paper on which the name is to be printed under the stamp and by pressing the main lever down. By raising the lever again the slide moves by the action of the spring-pawl so much that the second name of the column gets beneath the stamp, and if then another paper is brought under the stamp the second name will be printed on it by pressing the main lever down, and so forth, till the whole number of names is printed on the respective papers.

So, let's jump back to Addressograph. Did J.S. Duncan not have knowledge of Moeser's work? It seems that he didn't. In that same interview in 1918, Duncan stated the following:

Back in 1892 I was in charge of the books of a large milling concern in Sioux City, Iowa. Among other duties I had to see that a number of flour price lists and bids for grain were sent out each day to a list of people with whom he regularly did business. This addressing was a tedious job. It used to keep one of the young men in the office busy most of the time. Every now and then one of these bids would go astray through a mistake in the address, with the result that other milling companies would get the business. In a year's time these losses amounted to a good deal of money.

As I was a stockholder and director in the company, although the amount of stock I held in those days was necessarily small, I was much annoyed by this loss of business. I felt that there ought to be some way of addressing our cards mechanically, a way that would prevent mistakes and that would save most of the time and effort then wasted by the clerks in writing, over and over again, the same names and addresses.

So I looked for an addressing machine. I searched all the trade papers, and wrote to several office supply houses in Chicago, but to no avail. There was no such thing as a commercial addressing machine on the market; so I let the matter drop for the time being.

At this point, a natural question to ask would be, how does it work? And how is it different from Moeser's machine, as well as other addressing machines that came before it?

The How

The original Addressograph, created by J.S. Duncan had a simple yet remarkably ingenious start. In the 1918 interview, Duncan described how it worked:

One day it occurred to me that the difficulty might be done away with by setting up the addresses in individual rubber type, and linking them in detachable chains of carriable length. I made a model along these lines and showed it to several of my business friends. Most of them thought the idea very clever, but all were skeptical as to its practicability; in fact, several of them laughed at the thing, and told me I was foolish to waste time in trying to commercialize a device of that kind.

But no doubting or ridicule could disturb my conviction. Encouraged by a very good friend, I came to Chicago in the latter part of '93 and rented a small room on Dearborn street where I proposed to begin the manufacture of the Addressograph.

Illustration of 1896 Addressograph with movable belt of rubber plates, from the Early Office Museum's article. This image is in the public domain.

This is explained in much greater detail in his 1896 patent for Addressograph .

My invention relates to improvements in addressing-machines in which a chain of detachable type-plates is suspended over a rotating drum and a plunger or stamper capable of being driven downward upon the top of the drum carries a platen into contact at each movement of the machine with one of the type-plates, which are inked from a suitable inking device; and the objects of my improvement are to provide, first, a type-belt easily removable and capable of being compactly stored away when not in use;

second, an inking device having a direct bearing on the type, without rolling or sliding, and in which the ink-pad is normally closed from air and dust;

third, a simple and accurate means of rotating the type-belt so as to bring the name-plates successively under the platen;

fourth, to dispense with all pulleys for the type-belt, suspending it from a single drum;

fifth, to provide a detachable link which will retain the printing-surface and yet allow it to be easily removed, and in which any link can be easily removed from the chain, and,

sixth, to produce a small compact addressing-machine capable of being easily clamped to the edge of a desk or table.

From Duncan's 1896 patent for Addressograph. Duncan mentions that the figure is "a side elevation of the entire machine, except that the endless type-belt is broken away, showing that portion of it which passes over the drum and its lower end." The figure 3 seems to be involved in rotating the type-belt when the plunger is pressed down, bringing new name-plates under the platen for printing. A hinged lever with a curved beak is used, where the beak is firmly wedged between two teeth on the drum.

As Duncan found success after selling his initial machines, he worked on various iterations to improve his design. In the same interview, he said:

Enthusiastic over our success in selling these first machines, I had a hundred more built. These were arranged so that a foot lever could be attached, thereby leaving both the operator's hands free for feeding the envelopes. It was a much needed improvement, and served greatly to speed up the work of the machine.

This led to the eventual creation of the Addressograph Company in 1893.

Finally, what is this poster about?

At the bottom of the poster, Addressograph-Multigraph Corporation, Cleveland, Ohio is boldly mentioned. So, it's worth tracing back steps from this part. Firstly, how did this corporation come into being? Well, when J.S. Duncan decided to bring the Addressograph into production in the 1890s, he partnered with John B. Hall, a salesman who investigated the prospective market and helped demonstrate the product to business magnates. According to the Addressograph article on Made in Chicago museum:

By the early 1920s, John Hall had passed away, and Duncan was in semi-retirement, spending a lot of his time in Los Angeles with his wife Adelaide. Finally, in 1924, he elected to step away for good, with half the interest in Addressograph staying with the Hall family, and the other half acquired by another Chicago businessman, Frank H. Woods of Lincoln Telephone & Telegraph.

Woods installed Joseph Egerton Rodgers as the new company president, and by 1930, after some legal battles with the Hall family, the new ownership struck a deal to merge the Addressograph International Corp. with one of its chief rivals, the American Multigraph Co. of Cleveland, Ohio. The new organization, known as the Addressograph-Multigraph Corporation, ultimately centralized its operations in Cleveland.

Apparently, the merger was completed in 1932, and around 1933, the 152-page book titled Business Short Cuts, containing Addressograph methods and machines (as mentioned in the bottom-left part of the poster), was published. Hence, my guess would be that this poster is from the early 1930s. The quality of the poster is remarkably impressive for something that is nearly 90 years old!

So, what ultimately happened to this new corporation? According to the Encyclopedia of Cleveland History, the company experienced steady growth after World War II and by 1967, it had accumulated $400 million in sales from its parent and 27 subsidiaries. However, the emergence of Xerox in the 1970s had a major impact on their success. Despite making numerous changes and significant cuts to improve efficiency, the company ultimately closed its doors in 1982 and filed for bankruptcy under Chapter 11.

Conclusion

And that's it folks! I hope you enjoyed this dive down a rather obscure part of history. I'll continue making occasional trips to the Reader's Corner in search of hidden treasures like these.
ATLANTIC CITY  City Council is expected to vote on starting a consolidated municipal court with Pleasantville at its July meeting, to save money and increase efficiency for both towns.

The court would be run by Atlantic City, officials have said.

The merger, if approved, would be the latest example of small towns merging courts to save costs.

This is a means of showing support to our sister municipality, who approached us about consolidating, Atlantic City spokesperson Andrew Kramer said Tuesday in an email response to questions. We see absorbing Pleasantville Municipal Court, which is a much smaller court, as a way to improve services and increase the City of Atlantic Citys revenue, without adding any additional costs to the taxpayers.

Council introduced an ordinance on the consolidation in May but then postponed the public hearing and final vote at its June meeting.

We would like to request a one-meeting adjournment on this ordinance due to the promulgation of new legislation covering joint courts, city Solicitor Mike Perugini said at last months council meeting. The city has to take a step back and redo the financial analysis.

Pleasantville City Council also recently introduced an ordinance to pursue the idea.

Pleasantville Mayor Judy Ward said she supports the idea but the two cities are still working out the details, including the effects of the new legislation.

Hamilton Township to exit Atlantic County Central Municipal Court MAYS LANDING  The township that houses the countys new central court is heading for the exit.

Co-sponsors are Atlantic City Council President Aaron Sporty Randolph, Vice President Kaleem Shabazz and Councilwoman Stephanie Marshall.

According to the ordinance, the court would be called the Joint Municipal Court of the City of Atlantic City and would be located in the same place the municipal court is now located in the Clayton G. Graham Public Safety Building at 2715 Atlantic Ave.

Atlantic County runs a consolidated municipal court covering ten towns out of the historic courthouse in downtown Mays Landing.

The Atlantic County Central Municipal Court, founded in 2022, replaced the local courts of each of its participating municipalities. Ten municipalities  Corbin City, Egg Harbor Township, Estell Manor, Galloway Township, Linwood, Northfield, Port Republic, Ventnor, Weymouth Township and Hamilton Township  ultimately decided to join the court.

But Hamilton Township recently voted to drop out of that system as of Jan. 1, 2024, and to be part of a joint court with Hammonton. On Tuesday, Northfield City Council adopted an ordinance authorizing the citys withdrawal from the Atlantic County Central Municipal Court and pledging its membership to the planned Hammonton Joint Municipal Court next year.

The new joint court would be held on the property at 100 Central Ave. in Hammonton.

Atlantic Citys ordinance authorizes Mayor Marty Small Sr. and City Clerk Paula Geletei to negotiate details of an agreement with Pleasantville.

Small mentioned the idea of starting a joint court with Pleasantville in his State of the City speech in January.

It will be considered again at the City Council meeting July 19.

Staff Writer Chris Doyle contributed to this report.
Jewish Family Service of Atlantic & Cape May Counties held its annual meeting June 20 in Margate.

Staff, board members, volunteers, donors, and supporters were in attendance and learned about the state of the agency, new installations, and more.

JFS was honored to be able to once again host its Annual Meeting and assure that staff, board, volunteers, and supporters were recognized for their tireless dedication and service to the agency which assists more than 13,000 people each year, Andrea Steinberg, the JFS CEO, said in a recent release.

Individuals sworn in included Matthew Simpson as JFS board president, to serve a two-year term; Dr. Lawrence Reich, who will join Melissa Rosenblum, an attorney, as a board vice president; Sarah Rosenthal, who will serve as treasurer; and Adam R. Steinberg in the role of secretary. In addition, Jess Kane Berman and Eric Goldberg were sworn onto the Board of Directors for one-year terms. The agency also said goodbye to outgoing board President Joel Caplan.

Additional individuals recognized include Steinberg for commitment to the community and agency; volunteer Harry Albert, for furthering the mission of JFS; Lois and David Grossman as the 2023 Volunteers of the Year; staff with employment anniversaries; and various community donors. JFS also awarded the Community Impact Award to Kaitlin Kore, the Heart & Soul Award to Syed Mehmood, Outstanding Service Award to Sherilyn Haddock, and the Leadership Award to Samantha McManus.

For more information on JFS, visit jfsatlantic.org.
The assistant security manager of Air Asia has been booked by the Vimantal police for his alleged involvement in the death of an airline staffer. The development came after two-and-half-months of the incident.

According to information, the 36-year-old security supervisor, Vivian Anthony Dominic, who was working with Air Asia ground crew, died after falling from a ladder, used by passengers to board and deboard flights. The incident happened on April 13 at Pune airport.

Vivian Anthony Dominic

Initially, the police registered the case of an accidental death. However, following a complaint lodged by the wife of the deceased, Avila Fransken, they filed an FIR under section 304 (a) (causing death by negligence) of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) against the assistant manager, S Ajay Hariprasad. He was booked on Saturday.

The victim was reportedly working on Air Asia flight I5-767, which was about to depart from the Pune airport for New Delhi at 7 am on the fateful day. The ladder which is used by the passengers to board the plane was fastened to the planes back door. At 6:15 am, the ladder was detached without clearance and prior intimation and the victim fell from the aircraft onto the ground from almost 15 feet, causing his death.

In her complaint, Fransken accused the assistant manager of failing to provide the necessary safety equipment for her husbands job, leading to his fatal fall from the ladder. She alleged that the workers were not provided with safety belts, helmets, or safety jackets. Additionally, she claimed that the accused did not provide her with detailed information about the incident when she arrived at a hospital in Pune to collect her husbands body.

After performing the final rites in Tamil Nadu, the complainant came to Pune and approached the Vimantal police station to register an FIR.

Speaking to Mirror, she said, We were told by the airline that an FIR related to accidental death was filed on April 13 and the police were investigating the case. But I didnt get any update related to the investigation and was kept in the dark.

After learning about how the incident happened, I decided to file a case against the assistant manager responsible for my husbands death. I lost everything. I wanted to know how many of them were responsible for the incident, added Fransken.

Investigating officer, PSI Balasaheb Wakde of Vimantal police station, told Mirror, Earlier, we were probing the case as accidental death. However, on Saturday we registered a fresh FIR in the case. We will take action accordingly, he added.
A 42-year-old Milan man was killed in a single-vehicle crash late Friday, Rock Island County Sheriff Darren Hart said.

At 10:49 p.m., Sheriffs deputies were sent to the 15000 block of 63rd Street to investigate a crash.

A 2017 Chevrolet Silverado driven by Matthew Ray Baker had been northbound on 63rd Street when Baker failed to negotiate a curve in the roadway.

The pickup left the roadway, rolled and struck a tree. Baker was ejected from the vehicle. He was pronounced dead at the scene by the Rock Island County Coroners Office.

Coroner Brian Gustafson said toxicology tests would be performed as was the case in all fatal traffic crashes.

The crash remains under investigation by the Rock Island County Sheriffs Departments Accident Reconstruction Division, and the Coroners Office.
Shelby Woolison was out of the house just after 7 a.m. to take her son to day care.

It was, she thought, just another Monday. Just the start of another week.

But Woolison's routine at her home near Central Park Avenue in Davenport was shattered when she discovered her black 2016 Ford Edge was not in the driveway.

"I have my car keys," Woolison said Tuesday. "I thought I locked the doors  in fact, I'm just about positive I locked those doors.

"But it was gone."

The vehicle was recovered late Thursday. Woolison said her Ford Edge was used in a number of other burglaries.

"The back seat is filled with other people's papers and a few belongings that aren't ours," Woolison said. "Thankfully, the police processed it at the scene."

Woolison's experience is far from uncommon in Davenport, or across the Quad-Cities. In 2021  the latest totals available from the area's major police departments  945 vehicles were stolen in Davenport, Bettendorf, Rock Island, Moline and East Moline.

Davenport had almost half of the vehicle thefts in 2021, with 470.

"We are lucky, in a way," Woolison said. "My fiance has a car, and we will be able to use it until we get things figured out or the car is returned. My purse was in the car, so I had to spend most of the day calling around and cancelling everything."

She said the car was taken "sometime after 7 p.m. Sunday." Woolison's Ford Edge was spotted on a private surveillance camera at 1:39 a.m. Monday on West 47th Court in Davenport.

The people in the Ford Edge were trying the doors of other cars and stealing from the ones they found open. Stolen vehicles are used in the commission of other crimes.

"I think all the cars stolen in Davenport and the Quad-Cities are a big story," Woolison said. "This has been a really negative experience, and it really shocks me to know how many other people go through this because people stealing cars is so common."

Startling numbers

Woolison's Ford Edge joined a long list of vehicles stolen in Davenport and the rest of the Quad-Cities over the past five years. According to the latest numbers available from the police departments in Davenport, Bettendorf, Rock Island, Moline and East Moline, 1,868 vehicles were stolen across 2020 and 2021.

Vehicle thefts in Davenport accounted for more than half the total in that time frame, at 1,002.

In the three-year span from 2019 to 2021, a total of 1,396 vehicles were stolen in the city.

Some cities in the metro area did report statistics from last year:

In East Moline, Chief Jeffrey Ramsey reported 57 vehicles were stolen in the city in 2022.

Bettendorf reported 59 vehicles stolen in the city in 2022.

Smaller towns in the metro area also dealt with vehicle theft. In Silvis, Chief Mark VanKlaveren reported 23 motor vehicle thefts in 2022.

Authorities say some of the vehicles are stolen by teenagers who simply want a "joy ride." But many of the stolen vehicles are used in crimes, and those crimes can lead to sometimes-dangerous police pursuits.

Woolison's Ford Edge was pursued by Davenport police officers after it was stolen.

"I found out later Monday that police had knocked on our door really early that morning," Woolison said. "We sleep upstairs, so we didn't hear anyone at the door.

"But they were looking for me because my vehicle was involved in a pursuit. But whoever had stolen it got away."

It is not believed anyone was injured by Woolison's stolen vehicle.

A ride through the park

In the early hours of Monday, as Woolison's Ford Edge was being used in a string of burglaries, police found David James Gordon lying on his stomach in the backyard of a home near the intersection of High Street and Lincoln Avenue in Davenport, Scott County court records said. Nearby was the stolen motorcycle authorities accuse him of using to flee from law enforcement.

A Bettendorf police officer initially tried to stop Gordon, 42, of Davenport, at about 12:19 a.m. in the 1600 block of Grant Street. The reason listed for the stop was a lack of visible registration on the motorcycle.

Instead of stopping, Gordon kept going. He is accused of driving along the Duck Creek bike path and through Garfield Park. He also disobeyed numerous traffic signals and steered in and out of construction cones during the pursuit.

When they checked the motorcycle, police found it had been reported stolen as part of a burglary in Rock Island County.

After he was Mirandized, Gordon told police he fled because he knew his license was not valid and that he bought the motorcycle about a month ago. He faces numerous charges in relation to the incident, including second-degree theft, eluding and drug charges.

As of Thursday, Gordon was free on a $5,000 bond. His next court hearing is scheduled for July 6.

A vehicle theft turned deadly

At 3:56 p.m. on Nov. 1, 2022, a stolen Hyundai Azera rear-ended Abbott Perrys Chevrolet Aveo at the intersection of Illinois Route 92 and the off-ramp to the Talbot Memorial Bridge in Rock Island.

Perry died from the resulting injuries. Three people who were in the Azera left the crash site, two left on foot and one was picked up by another vehicle.

The Azera, a maroon 2008, had been reported stolen at about 8 p.m. on Oct. 30. The driver told police he left it running while he went into 11th St. Mart at 1520 11th St., Rock Island. Someone in a black hooded sweatshirt and black facemask then took the car.

On Nov. 11, authorities arrested Marcus C. Holmes, now 34, in relation to the fatal crash. The Rock Island County States Attorneys Office charged Holmes, of Davenport, with reckless homicide; possession of a stolen motor vehicle; failure to report an accident involving personal injury or death and leaving the scene of an accident involving personal injury or death.

On June 22, 2023, Holmes pleaded guilty to the failure to report an accident and possession of a stolen motor vehicle charges. His plea was part of an agreement with the Rock Island County States Attorneys Office.

Prosecutors dropped the reckless homicide and leaving the scene charges as part of the agreement, records state. Holmes awaits sentencing, which is scheduled for Aug. 15.

Searching for the Azera

Court records provide more detail about the whereabouts of the stolen Hyundai on Nov. 1 before the fatal collision.

At 1:14 p.m., officers went to the area of 7th Street and 7th Avenue to look for the Azera. The caller told police she and a friend had found the vehicle in an alley in the 600 block of 6th Street. They spoke to a young man who came out of the residence behind which the Azera was parked.

He identified himself as Julius from Waukegan, Illinois. After a short conversation, he left in the Azera.

During an interview with police, someone at the 6th Street address said Julius Matthews, 21, had arrived and left in the vehicle.

As of June 29, 2023, no charges related to the stolen vehicle or the crash were listed for Matthews in online court records.

At 3:54 p.m. on Nov. 1, police learned of a reckless driver southbound on 7th Street at 15th Avenue in Rock Island. An officer saw the vehicle and described it as a maroon sedan with three people inside. The three were wearing ski masks.

The officer lost sight of the sedan and could not relocate it.

At 3:55 p.m.  just before the crash  city cameras recorded a maroon Hyundai sedan heading west on Route 92 at 7th Avenue. The driver was a heavy-set person in a light-colored T-shirt with long, dark sleeves.

Police identified one of the people who ran from the crash scene as Anthony Banks, 41, according to court documents. Officers found Banks at 11th Street and 3rd Avenue and arrested him on an unrelated warrant, records state. They then sent him to UnityPoint Health-Trinity in Rock Island, but court documents dont state why authorities sent him to the hospital.

A news release issued by the Rock Island Police Department when Holmes was charged stated one of the occupants of the Azera was seriously injured and hospitalized but did not identify that person by name.

After he was Mirandized, Banks told investigators a heavy-set man he knew as Bub or Marcus picked him up in a maroon sedan. Marcus was wearing a white T-shirt with a long-sleeved blue shirt. He was also wearing a mask.

Banks later identified Holmes as the driver after being shown a photographic line-up.

There was also a front-seat passenger Banks knew as JuJu or Julius. Julius clothing included a black mask and gloves.

Banks account did not include more details of JuJus identity.

Banks said Holmes was driving erratically and that he told Holmes several times to slow down. He said the Azera struck a median, went out of control and hit another vehicle. After the crash, Banks said the other occupants ran away so he did too.
As we pause to celebrate our nations birthday this week, taking some time to learn more about the foundations of freedom on which our nation is built would be time well spent.

The cornerstone for the foundations of the rights and liberties, which we as Americans cherish, was laid, not on American soil, but in 1215 at Runnymede, a meadow by a quiet stretch of the Thames River not far from Windsor Castle in England. It was there that King John of England and a group of barons who had rebelled against him hammered out an agreement that specified certain rights and privileges that free men would have in perpetuity. The document became known as the Magna Carta.

Some of the provisions of this historic document, such as rules pertaining to the use of fish traps in the Thames River, are of no significance today. Other provisions, however, continue to be of great significance for they are the foundation for rights and liberties that we hold dear.

Among the enduring provisions of this landmark document is an important statement of due process: No free man shall be seized or imprisoned, or stripped of his rights or possessions . . . except by the lawful judgment of his equals or by the law of the land.

This statement is an important part of the lineage of the Fourteenth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, which, in part, states: No State shall make or enforce any law which shall abridge the privileges or immunities of citizens of the United States; nor shall any State deprive any person of life, liberty or property without due process of law; nor deny to anyone within its jurisdiction the equal protection of the laws.

In our minds eye, we sometimes imagine King John and the barons gathering under a big tent and having high-minded discussions of the issues of the day. Nothing could be further from the truth. The reality was that King John and the barons who had rebelled hated each other.

King John, who was a younger brother of Richard the Lionheart (who led one of the Crusades), was greedy, ruthless and cruel. He alienated barons, key church officials, and just about everyone else there was to alienate.

In 1215, a group of more than forty powerful barons, many of them with hundreds of armed retainers, revolted. John put together a mercenary army but could not force the barons to submit. Unable to subdue the rebellious barons, he reluctantly agreed to meet with them to see if some sort of resolution of the problem might be possible.

Political realities sometimes force adversaries to come to terms with each other. This was one of those occasions. By June 15, 1215, the king and the rebellious barons, after much discussion and considerable compromise, had come to agreement. On June 19, a charter of privileges granted by the sovereign in perpetuity was, in keeping with the customs and practices of the time, confirmed by oath.

The king, however, had no intention of abiding by the provisions of the charter. As soon as the meeting at Runnymede had ended, he repudiated the agreement and asked the pope to annul it. The agreement remained in force for no more than three months, with England once again being plunged into civil war. But when John died unexpectedly on October 18, 1216, the Regency Council named Johns nine-year-old son Henry king and reissued the Magna Carta. In time, it was reissued and reaffirmed by subsequent kings and became a very important part of British legal traditions.

The Magna Carta came to American soil when the first English-speaking colony was founded in Jamestown in 1607. The charter granted by James I to the Virginia Company declared that the inhabitants of the colony ... shall have and enjoy all liberties, franchises and immunities ... as if they had been abiding and borne within this our realme of Englande ... . A plaque at Jamestown presented by the Virginia State Bar in 1959 states with respect to the Magna Carta: Summarized later in the Bill of Rights, its principles have inspired the development of our system of freedom under law, which is at once our dearest possession and proudest achievement.

The notion of limited government  limits which preclude government from acting in ways detrimental to the rights of those who are governed  is an essential part of the foundations of freedom on which our country was built. The Magna Carta was the cornerstone of those foundations.
The Vatican has announced Pope Francis has appointed La Plata Archbishop Victor Manuel Fernandez as the new prefect of the Holy See's Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith Saturday (July 1).

The Argentinian prelate and papal protege succeeded Cardinal Luis Francisco Ladaria Ferrer, who has since retired from his post and would take up his duties by mid-September. Fernandez would also serve as president of the Pontifical Biblical Commission.

The Dicastery of the Doctrine of the Faith is the successor office of the Vatican's Congregation of the Holy Office of the Inquisition and the Congregation of the Doctrine of the Faith. Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger held this office before his election as Pope Benedict XVI in 2005.

Aside from his doctrinal and theological duties, Fernandez would also oversee the Catholic Church's response to sex abuse allegations committed by its own clergy, with the pope charging him to commit personally and directly to his new office's primary purpose of guarding Catholic doctrine, Vatican News reported.

Fernandez was born in 1962 in the small Argentinian town of Alcira. He was ordained a priest in 1986 and received his theology doctorate in 1990. During his priestly ministry, he founded and directed the Jesus Buen Pastor Lay Formation Institute and Teacher Training Center in the town of Santa Teresita before moving to Buenos Aires as a theology professor and an expert to several commissions within the Argentinian bishops' conference and the Latin American Bishops Council (CELAM). Fernandez was consecrated a bishop in 2013.

Read Also: Vatican To Release Evidence Related to 1983 Disappearance of 15-Year-Old Girl

Archbishop Fernandez, a Controversial Cleric

However, the appointment of Fernandez as the Vatican's theologian-in-chief has been blemished with controversy due to his past publications as an Argentine priest and bishop.

First among these is the fact that Fernandez has been a close collaborator of then-Cardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglio prior to his election to the papacy in 2013. It was reported that Fernandez helped the new pope to draft his first constitution, "Evangelii Gaudium", in which Fernandez cited his own prior scholarship as a source document. The archbishop was also purportedly involved in drafting the equally controversial 2016 papal document "Amoris Laetitia," which received numerous questions from several senior churchmen, including American Cardinal Raymond Burke.

But before his association with the then-Cardinal Bergoglio, he himself was questioned by the Holy See for some of his publications. In 2009, his term as rector of the Pontifical Catholic University of Argentina was suspended due to the need to answer objections to his appointment by Vatican officials doubting the orthodoxy of his scholarship. Part of this was the publication of his controversial 1995 work "Heal Me With Your Mouth: The Art of Kissing."

"[T]his book was not written based on my own experience, but based on the lives of people who kiss" and that he also wanted to focus on what poets had written about kissing," Fernandez wrote in the book's introduction.

The Vatican did not mention the book in the partial list of his publications it issued with the appointment announcement.

He was also known for his 2004 work "Incarnated Spiritual Theology," which was featured in Argentinian soap opera about an illicit affair between a priest and a nun.

US Catholics Alarmed

Meanwhile, the US-based group BishopAccountability criticized Pope Francis for his "baffling and troubling choice" of chief Vatican theologian and moral watchdog.

In a statement, the group alleged Fernandez refusing to believe victims who accused a priest under his watch, a certain Rev. Eduardo Lorenzo, of sexually abusing boys in 2019.

"For his handling of this case, Fernandez should have been investigated, not promoted to one of the highest posts in the global church," the statement read. "Nothing about his performance suggests he is fit to lead the Pope's battle against abuse and cover-up."

The Archdiocese of La Plata has not yet commented on BishopAccountability's accusations.

On the other hand, Crisis Magazine editor-in-chief Eric Sammons detailed the "scandalous" appointment of Fernandez, as well as Francis's audience with a group of artists, including the individual who created the "Piss Christ" display.

Sammons argued that every organization followed the "personnel is policy" concept, or a leader surrounding himself with yes men. "In the case of Pope Francis, his appointments...have implemented a program that has undermined Catholic teaching at almost every turn," he added.

Sammons added Fernandez was to take charge of his new assignment prior to the opening session of the Vatican's Synod on Synodality as its "final push to rewrite the Catechism.

"Thus, Francis has in place someone who can rubber-stamp anything and everything the Synod produces, no matter how it strays from traditional Catholic teaching," he explained.

To conclude his piece, Sammons observed that the attack on Catholic doctrine coming from Catholic figures ultimately "points back to one man" - Pope Francis.

Related Article: Vatican Diary Could Shed Light on Decades of Priestly Abuse in Bolivia

@ 2023 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
The Bitterroot Valley Military Program is training youth to be thoughtful, patriotic and skilled.

The Bitterroot Valley Military Program is the official youth program of the Corvallis American Legion Post 91. It currently has 19 young cadets who meet weekly (or bi-weekly) for drills, lessons, education and training in life skills. The group started in April and marched in the Corvallis Memorial Day Parade.

Organizers include veterans from every branch of the service including Kevin Holyfield (retired U.S. Navy), Sean and Pat Smothers (both retired U.S. Marine Corps).

Retired Gunnery Sergeant Sean Smothers said the program is educational and character-forming.

People said we should call it a company or call it a brigade but were not an academy, he said. There are a lot of things we are not, and so we stuck with what we were.

The program started with the USMC manual but created its own manual pulling ideas from other branches of service.

We have all branches of the military as staff members and we use those staff to give classes on their particular branch, Pat Smothers said. We are not taking these kids to get them prepped for a recruiter, were not doing that at all. The idea is to try to make a better individual.

In November, the Corvallis American Legion Post #91 met with the Missoula ROTC organizers to see if there was a way to get youth interested in serving.

They said they have more money to give than what they are giving out in scholarships, Sean Smothers said. At this point, if you had a C average or higher you were given a scholarship. Its not a great thing for our commissioned officers. So, I raised my hand and offered a plan.

The planning began and the team created manuals, curriculum, uniforms and rank structure.

We pulled from many different things like JROTC, the Mayo Clinic for basic medical training and Boy Scouts for knot-tying, Sean Smothers said. We have a 13-part Cold War class taught by Bill Widdle. He takes them from the beginning of WWII to the fall of the Berlin Wall.

Sean Smothers said students study socialism and how it can be detrimental.

Its a free online class, Smothers said. We have discussions about it and they respond to it well.

The youth program that began in April is for grades seven through high school graduation which is different from JROTC which only accepts students in high school.

We figured that if we had them longer, we could influence them more, Smothers said. Our goal is to inspire them to serve in their country or their community, whether it is local through their church or the government. Right now, that desire isnt there anymore.

On April 8, the Bitterroot Valley Military Program started with a one-mile run, push-ups and planking at the Corvallis Community Events Center.

They did well, and we did a follow-up test eight weeks later and some of them shaved two minutes off their run, one cadet went from 27 pushups to 54 pushups, he said. They are not graded against each other; they are graded against themselves. They are doing work on their own. What we did in the military wont work here, weve had to craft it to be our own.

The program took a break for the first two weeks of June but is back to full programming which includes water safety, team-building exercises at Lake Como, marching and how to be a color guard. In a private location, not the CCEC, students are learning how to carry flags and wooden non-working rifles.

We sent out an email asking if they want to do this, Smothers said. Five of the six come from Missoula to do this. They have been doing it twice a week.

Wearing the uniform with pride is an essential part of the program.

They are ironing their uniform, starching their uniform and treating it with respect, Smothers said. The uniform is bits and pieces of every branch in the service. We tell them people fight and die in a similar uniform, youre not going to wear it for Halloween or paintball. They do really well with it.

Five cadets in the color guard class confirmed they enjoyed the program.

Eli Haubrich, 12, in seventh grade at Missoula Christian School, said his favorite part is everything, I like it all.

The coolest thing is the maneuvers of carrying the rifle, Haubrich said.

Bridger Peterson, 15, is homeschooled.

My friends were doing it and it sounded fun so I came with them, she said. The coolest thing is doing drills, it is pretty fun, and I think it looks cool.

Alyana Haubrich, 14, attends the Missoula Christian School and will start ninth grade this fall.

My favorite part is the color guard practice, she said.

Quincy Peterson, 15, attends Missoula Christian School. She said her favorite part is doing the rifle movements in color guard practice.

Wesley Kolberg, 16, is homeschooled and said he enjoys the drills and color guard practice.

I like all the different things, I just like it overall, he said.

He added that hes the best-looking cadet.

Organizer Pat Smothers calls it a citizenship program.

We use the technology all four military branches have used throughout their history and we impart it to the youth, he said. Were trying to make a better individual down the road. These are going to be our leaders when they come of age, hopefully, they will be good leaders.

For more information contact the Bitterroot Valley Military Program at ADMIN@BVMP.US.
The 50-star flag is the current official flag of the United States and is one of the most recognizable symbols of the country. The flag is made up of 13 horizontal stripes of red and white, which represent the 13 original colonies, and a blue rectangle in the upper-left corner that contains 50 white, five-pointed stars, which represent the 50 states of the Union. The history of the 50-star flag is closely linked to the history of the United States; the flag has gone through 27 changes over the years.

The history of the 50-star flag dates back to 1912, when the United States added two new states, Arizona and New Mexico, to the Union. At that time, the flag had 48 stars arranged in eight rows of six stars each.

In the late 1950s, Alaska and Hawaii became the 49th and 50th states to join the Union, respectively. This necessitated the creation of a new design for the American flag. Just before the adoption of the new design, President Eisenhower ordered that the proportions of the flag be changed to reflect the standard 1:1.9 ratio used in the manufacture of military flags. This change made the flag slightly longer, with the width of the flag now being 1.9 times the height. In 1959, President Dwight Eisenhower issued an Executive Order announcing that the new flag would have 50 stars.

The design for the new 50-star flag was created by a high school student named Robert Heft, who was assigned the task of designing the flag as part of a class project. Heft's design featured 50 white stars on a blue field arranged in nine rows of alternating five and six stars. He sent his design to his congressman, who submitted it to the White House for consideration. Out of more than 1,500 entries, Heft's design was selected by President Eisenhower. It was officially adopted as the new flag of the on July 4, 1960.

Interestingly, Heft initialized received only a B from his teacher for his class assignment (after his design for the new flag was officially accepted, his grade was upgraded to an A).

After the adoption of the 50-star flag, there were concerns about the aesthetics of having an odd number of rows for the stars. However, it was eventually decided that the new design was visually pleasing and would be accepted by the American people. The new design was also seen as a way to symbolize the growth and expansion of the United States.

In 1976, the United States celebrated its bicentennial, and a new flag was designed to commemorate the occasion. The Bicentennial flag featured a circle of 13 stars on a blue field, representing the original 13 colonies. The 50 stars were arranged in a ring around the circle of stars, creating a unique design that was used throughout the Bicentennial celebrations.

In recent years, there have been discussions about the possibility of adding a 51st state to the Union, which would require a new design for the flag. There have been several proposals for a new design, rearranging the stars into a new pattern, or creating a new design that incorporates a diamond shape or a more symmetrical pattern. However, today's pattern will also work for 51 stars by using six alternating rows of eight and nine stars.
The Secretariat For Virginia Committee of the Ashland Museum has announced a major advancement toward its fundraising goal of $695,000 to place the Secretariat Racing Into History bronze monument by renowned sculptor Jocelyn Russell in downtown Ashland.

We are thrilled to report that we have reached $550,000 in total donations, grants, pledges and in-kind contributions, said Kate Chenery Tweedy, chair of the SECVA Committee. We have achieved this milestone thanks to a substantial grant of $200,000 from the Richard S. Reynolds Foundation. These funds will be allocated to creating the Richard S. Reynolds Plaza for the Secretariat monument.

The selected site is located on the campus of Randolph-Macon College, across from the Ashland/Hanover Visitors Center at the Amtrak station. The bronze statue, at 12 feet tall and 21 feet long, is the largest sculpture of the legendary champion on record. It will be the first and only monument of Secretariat in his home state.

We are extremely grateful to the Reynolds family for helping our vision get closer to becoming a reality, Tweedy said. Their timing was especially helpful, coming during the 50th anniversary celebration of Secretariats Triple Crown, Tweedy said.

The Reynolds Foundation said in a statement: Those of us in the Reynolds family are proud to be associated with this tribute to Secretariat, especially because David P. Reynolds, our father and uncle, bred, owned and raced Tabasco Cat, a great-grandson of Secretariat, who won both the Preakness and Belmont Stakes in 1994. As everyone knows, Secretariat was one of the greatest thoroughbreds of all time and also one of Virginias greatest sons.

Ann Martin, president of the Ashland Museum, said, This generous grant from the Reynolds Foundation will benefit our community and Central Virginia in many ways. Just think of the tourism and educational value that will be generated by having Secretariat right here in downtown Ashland. This is a highly visible and accessible site where thousands of people can see him every day.

Martin noted that Ashland was chosen as the monument location due to the longstanding ties with the Chenery family. The founder of Meadow Stable, Christopher Chenery, grew up in the town, attended Randolph-Macon and later founded nearby Meadow Stable where Secretariat was born, raised and first trained.

Weve had robust support for this project from the Ashland and Central Virginia region and from Secretariat fans everywhere, said Martin. But were not across the finish line yet. We encourage folks to make a donation soon so we can bring our hometown hero home to stay.

The Secretariat monument has been traveling across the country on the Triple Crown Tour for weeks, logging close to 3,500 miles and garnering enormous media attention.
The Virginia attorney general's office recently has committed itself to investigating discrimination against white and Asian students in a race-conscious Fairfax County effort called the College Partnership Program. The prep program was housed at an affluent middle school where white and Asian students made up more than 80% of the enrollment. It targeted  but was not exclusively for  Black and Latino students, students identifying as two or more races, multilingual students, economically disadvantaged students and students who would be the first in their families to go to college.

Allegations of discrimination against well-to-do white and Asian students ring hollow against a backdrop of pervasive racial inequality related to postsecondary preparation and access.

In Virginia, opportunity hoarding means that students in affluent schools serving high numbers of white and Asian students are most likely to take college-credit and GPA-padding Advanced Placement courses. But within affluent schools serving high numbers of white and Asian students, much lower percentages of Black students are given the opportunity to take AP courses compared with their other race peers. These trends hold across the country with respect to advanced math and science courses.

Racially unequal opportunities to experience challenging coursework are compounded by school segregation and deeply rooted racial disparities in opportunities to build monetary wealth. Wealth inequities mean racially stratified access to resource-rich K-12 schools and high-cost test tutoring that can raise SAT scores by hundreds of points. They also mean college affordability issues impact families very differently along racial lines and at all points in the college-going process.

Wealth disparities by race influence access to social capital. For instance, advantaged webs of family, friends and acquaintances contain important, informal information about attending college and segment advice about securing and navigating campus visits, interviews, scholarships and applications. High school counselors who might fill in some of the gaps for students siloed in under-resourced, segregated schools and less-advantaged social networks are often stretched too thin.

These disparities  and many more  in the K-12 college preparation pipeline yield serious racial inequities in access to elite postsecondary institutions. While college-going among all racial and ethnic groups is slowly increasing, white and Asian students are much more likely than Black or Latino students to attend nonprofit, four-year institutions that boast higher graduation rates. Said differently: White and Asian students are much more likely to complete college relative to other racial or ethnic groups.

College attainment remains a crucial path to middle-class opportunity, one that can help fortify our multiracial democracy by reducing racial inequality and preparing rising leaders for our diverse institutions and sectors. As a result, since the civil rights era, K-12 school districts, colleges and universities have employed modest, race-conscious measures to increase access for historically marginalized students. The measures are no more than a bandage for systemic racial discrimination, past and present. But they are important  and, as the Virginia attorney general's actions indicate, remain under serious attack from conservatives.

Back to Fairfax. This past March, as a U.S. Supreme Court decision on affirmative action loomed in higher education, the Virginia attorney general's office opened its complaint against Fairfax's College Partnership Program. The program was created to "systematically mitigate the impact of barriers to access and opportunity." Seeking to address many of the inequities outlined above, it offers support for college aspirations and planning, provides enrichment, mentoring and tutoring, organizes college visits and aids application completion.

The attorney general's office alleged that Fairfax's program violated the Virginia Human Rights Act, a state version of the federal Civil Rights Act of 1964, by "soliciting and selecting applicants  based on race, color and national origin." Rejecting the original purpose of both civil rights acts  to begin unwinding Jim Crow segregation and inequality  conservatives now claim that identifying students by race for a program designed to address ongoing racial inequities in education is tantamount to discrimination.

It didn't matter that Fairfax's program was following the letter of existing federal K-12 law on race-conscious education policy  targeting historically marginalized students, but not to the exclusion of others. The attorney general's investigation and others illustrate how conservatives will seek to use the Supreme Court's ruling on affirmative action in colleges and universities to chill any efforts to explicitly address racial inequality in our elementary and secondary public schools. Fairfax's response, agreeing to remove any mention of race in its advertising materials for the College Partnership Program, illustrates the effectiveness of conservative tactics. Notably, while the Supreme Court's majority decision on Thursday further limited the use of race in higher education admissions, it did not speak specifically to race-consciousness in the K-12 context. School districts should continue the important work of equitably serving all students in ways that nurture diversity and reduce racial isolation.

At bottom, the conservative attacks on race-conscious education policies are a political gambit, feeding on white anxiety about status, growing inequality and demographic change. And conservatives are increasingly seeking to appeal to Asian constituencies by alleging anti-Asian discrimination in race-conscious educational programs. This strategy has resonated with some members of the U.S. Supreme Court and represents the crux of the plaintiffs' arguments in the affirmative action cases. (Notably, the Pacific Legal Foundation, the conservative organization behind the affirmative action challenge, struggled to find Asian American plaintiffs to represent the higher education cases.) But it creates a false choice between guarding against anti-Asian discrimination and addressing centuries-in-the-making educational disparities for Black, Latino and Indigenous students.

The first step in combatting the cynicism of conservative attacks on race-conscious education policies is to understand why they are happening. The second is to do something about it. All seats in the General Assembly, a body that can further clarify the intent behind the Virginia Human Rights Act, are up for election this November. Residents should ask their candidates whether they would support such a clarification and vote accordingly. Similar stakes and actions exist at the federal level and for the executive branches in 2024. Another option is to resist unjust court decisions through noncompliance. We can't choose to do nothing. The stakes for historically disadvantaged groups and for society writ large are too high.

Genevieve Siegel-Hawley is an associate professor of educational leadership in the VCu School of Education and author of "a Single Garment: Creating Intentionally diverse Schools that Benefit all Children."
Fourth suspect picked up for murder of Playa del Carmen woman

Playa del Carmen, Q.R.  A fourth suspect has been picked up in connection to the May murder of an Italian woman. On Saturday, the State Attorney Generals Office said Pablo H had been taken into custody in Veracruz.

In their statement, the agency reported he is the fourth implicated in the crime of qualified homicide to the detriment of a woman of foreign origin that occurred in an establishment of this city.

In collaboration with the Attorney General of the State of Veracruz, the capture of Pablo H was achieved, they said. He has already been transferred Playa del Carmen where he will be presented before the judicial authorities.

Previously, Martin P, Jose R and Pedro H were arrested, also in the state of Veracruz, will stand trial for murder.
Visitors at the furniture and food showroom inside downtowns Fire Station One wont hear staff telling them to keep their food and drink off the couches.

The historic structure  renovated into a boutique hotel, higher-end cafe and home experience space  has a staff that encourages that sort of behavior. Patrons roam with Nordic-inspired snacks and precariously perched wine glasses while they test the furniture for comfort, or rest on a hotel bed while crunching on caviar-laden potato chips.

The furniture comes from TXTUR, which builds sturdy, made-to-order pieces in a Roanoke factory. The TXTUR showrooms in-house eatery, Stock Cafe, plates up the likes of toast Skagen  Carolina shrimp salad with cornichons and smoked trout roe on grilled brioche.

A visitor might sense that at least two of the employees, Nick Guacheta, a sales-and-marketing team member who used to do stand-up comedy, and Stocks chef, Jeff Farmer, enjoy a wink and a nod about their current situation.

I am at the end of the day a furniture salesman now, Farmer said, without a soupcon of sarcasm.

Its hard to avoid comparisons between TXTUR and a certain world-famous furniture store chain that sells wares inspired by Scandinavian aesthetics but is constructed of low-end materials  and is known for assembly that challenges even the most technically inclined. When that chains customers feel hungry from exploring the cavernous showrooms, theres a cafe to satiate their appetites.

Farmer acknowledged that some customers come in and ask him about the IKEA effect. Furniture and food? Surely you jest.

But anyone who has visited Stock Cafe knows that both the food and the furniture are no joke.

It might seem strange for Farmer, a chef with roots in Louisiana, Mississippi, and Southwest Virginia, to have turned his eye to cooler climes for this recent ventures gastronomic inspiration. But for him the cuisine choice was a no-brainer. I came on in June of last year and pretty fast I made the connection. One of my customers said its like IKEA for grownups.

Farmer, clad in standard-issue chef garb including a punk rock T-shirt and dark-framed glasses that contrast his fair complexion, is clearly someone who also thinks beyond the service pass, taking design into account.

Think Globally, Eat Locally

Farmer notes the references to Nordic and Scandinavian cuisine are more concentrated on Norway and Holland, touting European dishes with North Carolina accents. Smoked sturgeon salad is made with fish from that states Marshallberg Farm, and the shrimp salad on Skagen toast is made from North Carolina-harvested seafood.

One item that Farmer has put on the menu speaks specifically to Hollands Indonesian population: Kapsalon. The street fare has a base comprised of French fries topped with chicken Shawarma, a spicy sambal and garlic sauce tempered by Gouda cheese, and cool lettuce, tomato and cucumbers. Food for the post- and pre-pub crawl to be sure.

I wanted something accessible that was at the same time fast but also a little higher end, Farmer said. You can get French fries topped with stuff but you can also get a steak and lamb.

He has also tried to make caviar  something of a luxury item  more accessible too, serving it with crispy potato chips.

My whole thing is that I want to get people to eat caviar. It shouldnt be a luxury, Farmer said.

And he doesnt want people to think of the cafe as fine dining because of the furnitures price points.

Such larger home goods chains as Restoration Hardware have offered locally sourced food to accompany the furniture shopping experience for years. Purists who are focused on the food-and-furniture aspect might poo-poo this notion as degrading both and elevating neither. But its a business model that has been gaining traction for a while, and it values the entirety of the experience above all else. Farmer seems more than content to be part of this model.

A Roanoke Renaissance

On the other side of the house, literally and metaphorically, sits Nick Guacheta. He is proud of the forward-thinking mentality that has been a company trademark since its inception during the pandemic.

We knew we wanted to do a brick-and-mortar showroom, but we didnt want a common or orthodox showroom, he said. People wouldnt be able to appreciate this product browsing a furniture showroom.

Patrons at TXTUR are encouraged to eat at Stock and not only browse with their food and wine but sit on the furniture and lounge.

The hotel is just the same opportunity to eat in the product, sleep in the product and become as familiar with it as we are, Guacheta said.

Guacheta is also enthusiastic about the reception TXTUR has gotten in the community from locals and out-of-towners alike, in spite of some TXTUR products prices, which can go for up to several thousand dollars for just one comfy chair. Farmer admits that he would be hard-pressed to afford a sofa that was within his line of sight during a recent interview there.

This building, especially on the weekend, the people who come through here are awestruck about the business, Guacheta said. We see people coming from the kind of places that you would think wouldnt typically have an interest in Roanoke. Their jaws drop when they walk in.

Guacheta senses that the company is doing something special. Indeed, its vertical manufacturing process  which takes care of the entire production in house  is unique in Roanoke and rare in the nation. Beyond the furniture itself, TXTUR is creating momentum.

I think us being here and being downtown and this kind of renaissance notion again, were trying to provide good jobs, were trying to make good products, Guacheta said. [The hotel] is this big historical landmark accessing this renaissance energy.

Factory Men

While TXTURs vertical integration is unique in the furniture manufacturing industry, so is CEO Greg Terrills commitment to sustainability.

In 2018 Americans threw away 12.1 million tons of furniture, according to the EPA. Terrill wants to at least begin to reverse that trend. At TXTUR, products become part of a circular economy that customers can bring back for repair or, even years after purchase, for refurbishing into another product. The production plant in Southeast Roanoke uses scrap wood to heat the building when temperatures drop.

Despite these innovations, the company is deeply rooted in the traditional manufacturing business. TXTURs parent company, Frank Chervan, is a three-generation furniture manufacturing company started in 1932 by Terrills grandfather, and it bears his grandfathers name. Chervan started the company in Raveena, Ohio, moved operations to Bedford after World War II and relocated to Roanoke in 2006, according to the company websites history page.

Its not a large leap to begin to see similarities between TXTUR and another furniture manufacturing legacy.

John D. Bassett III, whom Roanoke author Beth Macy chronicled in her book Factory Man, doesnt see TXTUR necessarily as a revival of furniture manufacturings heyday in Southwest Virginia, but more a niche market operation.

Where the Bassett family business, Bassett Furniture Industries, was among the worlds largest furniture manufacterers in decades past, TXTUR is targeting a local niche market. Bassett, whose family famously forced him from that company in the years before its decline as an employer in Henry County, moved on to make his mark in Galax with Vaughan-Bassett Furniture Co., saving hundreds of factory jobs in the process.

We cater to a market thats larger than the designer market, said Bassett. Were still here. Were one of the few manufacturers left.

While TXTURs location in Southwest Virginia is coincidental, the association with furniture manufacturing in Southwest Virginias legacy is strong.

Bassett must sense the renewed life that TXTUR has breathed into the region. He and Terrill have spoken about possibly collaborating on a product. At least preliminarily, Bassett is testing the waters to see how his company can collaborate to design and produce something we havent produced before, according to the furniture magnate.

While TXTURs residential manufacturing model may not begin to approach the pre-1980s manufacturing peak for residential markets like Bassetts, the vertical integration model that is unique to TXTUR has allowed the company to capitalize on the custom design market by beating the competition in speed and quality.

Vertical integration starts with cutting the basic pieces and encompasses all aspects of making the product, including staining and finishing with upholstery. The raw materials the company uses are a mix of such imports as sustainably harvested European beech from Germany and locally harvested woods from Virginia and North Carolina.

Were one of the only plants that starts with lumber and goes all the way through the manufacturing process, Terrill said on a recent visit to the Chervan plant on Greenbrier Avenue, which builds TXTUR furniture. Terrill said 3,500 types of products go through the plant in a year.

Where vertical integration allows TXTUR to outpace the competition is its speed-to-customization ratio. The traditional lead time for ordering customized furniture can extend to 16 weeks. TXTUR gets it done in 10 days to six weeks. A chair takes just 11 hours to go through the finishing process, Terrill said.

Walking the plant floor is like watching a mesmerizing dance of programmed machinery and skilled crafts people doing their best work.

Frank Chervan began its shift toward more mechanization in the mid-90s as a cost-saving measure when Northern Italian chairmakers were clobbering it, even though European labor costs were significantly higher. Terrill visited Italy and found that technology was the key ingredient to the Piemontes competitive edge.

Now numerous Balestrini machines grace the plant floor, along with Japanese routers.

Machinery creates speed and also efficiency. In one section of the plant a smart saw maximizes the wood used in making the furniture pieces, saving 5% to 6% on raw materials. At expenditures of $40,000 a week, its a sizeable cost savings.

Bassett said that Vaughan-Bassett representatives visited Hanover, Germany, in May, for Ligna, the largest furniture manufacturing show in the world.

While globalization has largely been attributed to the decline of U.S. manufacturing, its surprising to talk to Terrill and learn how inherently connected TXTURs furniture manufacturing process has been to global influences, and not at all the death knell of furniture manufacturing in the U.S. Perhaps the reasons have more to do with a market that demanded a drive to cut costs by using lower cost materials and cutting corners in a multi-staged building process that span oceans from China to Vietnam.

But Terrill literally does not cut corners. One of the hallmarks of TXTUR furniture is its ability to endure. Terrill has been told that he could save $1.10 on corner blocks in ottomans, among other pieces of furniture, by forgoing the extra support. He would never dream of it.

A commercial resort client once asked if the company could make a chair that supported 500 pounds. Terrills response was, We dont make a chair that doesnt.

Terrill would rather make a product that lasts, and contribute to the circular economy by keeping product in the consumer cycle. TXTUR furniture is heirloom meant to either be passed down or upcycled.

And who knows? TXTURs business model seems inevitably scalable, and it includes the restaurant concept, Farmer said. In that sense, TXTUR would be reimagining the furniture manufacturing model on a national scale.

Should that happen, customers will be able to take their glasses of wine with them while they try out the furniture, unlike at IKEA. Red wine stains be damned.

I may not be here several years from now, but this needs to be something the business can replicate if and when the company grows, said Farmer adding that he is fine putting the furniture front-and-center. Id rather just be a component than the main focus.

On the web:
EDUCATION

Carrie Cox has been named senior director for auxiliary services for the Division of Auxiliary and Business Services at Virginia Tech.

Jennifer Havens has been appointed as the new director of the Center for Business Analytics at Virginia Techs Pamplin College of Business.

Abigail White, a graduate of Giles High School in Pearisburg, was inducted into the Naval Academy Class of 2027 on June 29.

FINANCIAL

Sherri Stinnette Holt has joined Eades and Lower Insurance as a sales representative.

MEDICAL

Kenny Harrah, director of fitness at Warm Hearth Village in Blacksburg, has been named the LeadingAge Virginia Power of Purpose Award recipient for 2023.

ORGANIZATIONS

Junior Achievement of Southwest Virginia has announced its executive officers for the 2023-2024 fiscal year: Brian Woosley, Roanoke Gas, chair; Sharon Lustig, CMR Institute, chair-elect; Chuck Sawyers, Carilion Clinic, secretary; T. Doug McQuade, retired, KPMG, treasurer; and Samuel Oakey IV, Oakeys Funeral Service and Crematory, immediate past chair. In addition, Amarys Foley, Global Investment Bank, has been named to the board of directors.

REAL ESTATE

Rod Eller has been named Long & Foster Real Estates regional manager in Southwest Virginia.

OTHER

Seaman Apprentice Victoria Beard, a Salem native and 2022 Salem High School graduate, is serving the U.S. Navy assigned to Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 125 aboard the U.S. Navys largest master jet base in Lemoore, California.

Rebecca Ventola has been hired by the Franklin County Library Board as the new director for the Franklin County Library system.
MONETA  The Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources is ramping up patrols in anticipation of a busy, and extended, Fourth of July holiday on Smith Mountain Lake. Warm weather and multiple fireworks shows are expected to bring even more boaters to an already busy lake.

1st Sgt. Tim Dooley and Officer 1st Class Shane Wilson took to the water in one of the DWRs patrol boats Thursday. It was a relatively calm outing before crowds are expected to make their way to the water over the weekend and into Tuesday for Independence Day.

Dooley, who oversees DWR operations at Smith Mountain Lake, said they will have four patrol boats on the water over the weekend, three on Monday and another four on Tuesday. Several boating safety checkpoints are also planned to assure boaters are staying safe during the holiday.

The Bedford County Sheriffs Office and the Franklin County Sheriffs Office are expected to have patrol boats on the water as well this holiday weekend.

We are in good shape, Dooley said of preparations.

The biggest tests will be the two fireworks shows on the water at Mitchells Point Marina on Sunday and Parkway Marina on Tuesday. Both traditionally bring large crowds of boats packed into a small area to view the fireworks.

Dooley said patrols will converge on the marinas in the evening for the fireworks shows. One key goal will be to assure that boaters leave the shows in an orderly manner. Both shows have been designated no-wake events by the Smith Mountain Lake Water Safety Council as in the past.

While the DWR will be out in full force, Dooley said most boaters on the lake follow the rules. During each of the three times he and Wilson interacted with boaters Thursday, all were following the rules and had all necessary safety equipment.

I think for the most part, people do a good job policing themselves, Dooley said.

If any minor infractions are found such as a floatation device not being readily available in one of the boats they stopped, they are often given a warning rather than a citation. During the stop Wilson explained why the floatation device was necessary before thanking the individual and letting him get back to fishing.

That is our primary goal. To try to educate people, Wilson said.

That is not to say that everyone is safe on the water. Dooley said they have already had three operating under the influence arrests so far this year. That number could increase this holiday weekend with conservation officers paying close attention.

We strongly encourage sober boat operators, Wilson said.

Life jackets are another thing the DWR will be looking for this weekend and the rest of the summer. Dooley said the number of people having fun on the lake wearing life jackets has increased in recent years, but he would like to see more.

Nearly all of the boating related fatalities in recent years involved an individual who was not wearing a life jacket. Dooley said many of the modern life jackets are comfortable to wear and can be critical in instances were someone is thrown from a boat.

We wish everyone would wear their life jackets, Dooley said.

Smith Mountain Lake has already had a one boating incident that resulted in two fatalities earlier this year. Two Danville men drowned after their boat capsized near the Anthony Ford Public Boat Ramp on Jan. 2. There have only been two minor boating incidents on Smith Mountain Lake since then, according to Dooley.

Multiple rainy weekends have resulted in fewer boats on the water for much of the spring and summer. Dooley said sunny days have led to increased boating traffic since last weekend and if bad weather holds off until after July 4, the DWR could be in for a high traffic holiday weekend.
A holiday weekend is the perfect time to get out and experience one of Virginias State Parks, and outdoor enthusiasts will want to make note of a new program this year: Wandering Waters Paddle Quest, a self-paced program being offered at 31 park facilities across the commonwealth.

In the New River Valley area, Claytor Lake, New River Trail and Hungry Mother are all participating in the Paddle Quest program.

Visitors can explore waterways through a mixture of ranger-guided programs and self-led adventures, and can use park rental equipment or personal gear, including canoes, kayaks, standup paddle boards or paddle boats.

To earn rewards, visitors must create an account on the State Park Adventures system and log each outing. Prizes will be awarded in increments:

Paddle at five parks and earn a sticker;

Paddle at 10 parks and earn a patch;

Paddle at 20 parks and earn a mesh gear bag.

Anyone who can complete the challenge and paddle at all 31 participating parks earns a cellphone dry bag and a certificate.

Virginia State Parks is proud to provide another great avenue for visitors to experience the rich diversity of the state parks system, said State Parks Director Melissa Baker in a news release about Paddle Quest. From rivers to lakes to the Chesapeake Bay, Virginians can experience a wide range of paddle experiences at Virginia State Parks.

Officials remind both new and experienced paddlers to wear a personal flotation device at all times when on the water. They also recommend checking the Know Before You Go section on each park page before visiting, to confirm operating hours, water and weather conditions, and other information.

For more details about Wandering Waters Paddle Quest, go to www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/paddle-quest.

- The Roanoke Times
Shirley Contreras wrote for the Santa Maria Times from 1991 to 2022. Her book, The Good Years, a selection of stories is on sale at the Santa Maria Valley Historical Society, 616 S. Broadway.
0.

Tensions in France against the police shooting of a teenager died down overnight, according to officials, while there were still violent incidents in several locations. For one, a mayor's residence was reportedly attacked.

Attack on a Mayor's Residence

The Washington Post reported that at 1:30 AM local time, rioters crashed the house of Vincent Jeanbrun, mayor of L'Hay-les-Roses, south of Paris, with a car and set it on fire while his wife and two small children were asleep inside.

Prosecutor Stephane Hardouin of the Val-de-Marne department, of which L'Hay-les-Roses is a part, said that a flaming car had approached the perimeter of the mayor's pavilion before being stopped presumably by a low wall. He stated the truck smashed the family's vehicles and the front gate.

In their attempt to flee, Jeanbrun stated that his wife and one of his children were hurt. He was not at their home as he was working at the town hall at the time of the assault.

Jeanbrun tweeted on Sunday, July 2: "Tonight, a milestone was reached in horror and ignominy." He described the attempt as a cowardly assassination.

Cette nuit, un cap a ete franchi dans l'horreur et l'ignominie. Mon domicile a ete attaque et ma famille victime d'une tentative dassassinat.



Ma determination a proteger et servir la Republique est plus grande que jamais. Je ne reculerai pas. #PasPourRien #Emeutes  pic.twitter.com/9HW1eAFCXN  Vincent Jeanbrun (@VincentJeanbrun) July 2, 2023

French Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin has declared an attempted murder probe after France's political establishment highly criticized the incident.

See Also: France's 4th Night of Turmoil Results in Over 1,000 Arrests

Chinese Nationals on a Tour Bus Were Also Attacked

Meanwhile, Beijing authorities confirmed on Sunday that a tourist bus full of Chinese nationals was attacked the previous week. According to the Foreign Ministry, certain individuals suffered minor injuries, and the bus' windows were shattered.

The Chinese consulate in Marseille reportedly informed the French government of the incident and demanded that they protect the Chinese people.

Chief of Chinese consulate services in Marseille, He Shuai, told China's Southern Metropolis Daily that the attack happened last Thursday night, June 29.

After receiving a phone call on Sunday, police in the Bouches-du-Rhone department, where Marseille is located, confirmed that a bus carrying a Chinese tour group had been attacked during the riots in the city. However, they were unable to confirm whether anyone had been injured due to the high volume of incidents in recent days.

According to the police, the bus was assaulted because its location was close to a construction site where looters had gone in search of further missiles. The bus was just "in the wrong place at the wrong time," and the passengers were not intentionally targeted because of their race.

Continuous Violence in France

Protests, some of which became violent, rocked France when a police officer shot and killed Nahel M., a 17-year-old of North African heritage, during a traffic check in a Paris neighborhood last week. Anti-police and anti-state sentiments have been stoked by the event, especially in the suburb of large cities, where members of minority groups often face discrimination and high unemployment.

Vandalism, looting, and damage to public property have occurred in cities around France, prompting the mobilization of tens of thousands of police personnel. Protesters are being met with tear gas by the police.

See Also: France: Over 400 Detained on 3rd Night of Unrest After Teenager Slain by Police

@ 2023 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
 In final order list of Term, Supreme Court grants cert on big new Second Amendment case and denies/punts cert on acquitted conduct cases | Main | "Biases In Legal Decision Making: Comparing Prosecutors, Defense Attorneys, Law Students, And Laypersons" 

July 1, 2023

A little more critical commentary on Jones v. Hendrix

I am hopeful, though not particularly optimistic, that the Supreme Court's recent disappointing ruling regarding federal collateral review in Jones v. Hendrix (basics here) will generate attention in various quarters and perhaps even prompt a congressional response. As discussed in prior posts, Jones may leave many hundreds of legally innocent federal prisoners stuck serving erroneous prison term without a pathway for court review, and I certainly want to believe the potential erroneous incarceration of many legally innocent persons in federal prison would not escape serious scrutiny. But the technicalities of the Jones ruling, as well as debates as to who does and does not qualify as legally innocent (as well as other possible means for relief), likely will muffle the attention these matter receive.

That all said, I have be pleased to see recently a bit more critical commentary of Jones (in addition to what was previous noted here on the day of the opinion):

From The Hill, "Supreme Court injustice: legal innocence is not enough"

From NNPA, "Supreme Court ruling limits challenges to unlawful convictions for innocent federal prisoners"

From Reuters, "US Supreme Court shows indifference to wrongful convictions"

Prior related posts:

July 1, 2023 at 11:43 PM | Permalink

Comments

The conviction is not wrongful. Its just that res judicata means that the law of the case was already settled.

Posted by: Jackson | Jul 4, 2023 1:10:58 PM

Jackson: Isn't it fair to call a conviction based on a flawed overbroad statutory interpretation is now "wrongful"? Let's use Dubin as an example; there were surely many defendants convicted of aggravated identity theft under an approach to 18 U.S.C.  1028A(a)(1) that the Supreme Court unanimously decided was an improper interpretation of that criminal statute. What is the best adjective to to describe those convictions now? I think "wrongful" is actually a bit better than "unlawful."

Posted by: Doug B | Jul 4, 2023 4:58:17 PM

Yes, but Jones itself is a bad example of legal innocence. Reheif, for 99.9% of the defendants, is about the proper jury instructions -- knowledge of the defendant's status. I have trouble thinking of a Reheif claim in which the government would not be able to make a submissible case -- the defendant entered a plea to the prior offense, was probably advised of the range of punishment, and received a sentence. As such, the jury would be able to infer that defendant knew he had a prior conviction for an offense punishable by a sentence of more than one year.

According to the brief in opposition to certiorari, Mr. Jones had five prior felony convictions and had received a sentence in excess of one year on at least one of those case. So, if Reheif had been the law at the time of his trial, a properly instructed jury would almost certainly have found Mr. Jones guilty.

Whether the Supreme Court should have used this case to fully close the door on claims of legal innocence or should have issued a narrower decision that 2241 would not authorize collateral applications asserting trial court error is something that can be debated.



Posted by: tmm | Jul 5, 2023 8:52:00 AM

In the case cited by Doug, the lower judges that decided the issue before Dubin did not adopt that construction, and the decision was only for them to take.

The U.S. Supreme Court itself might have declined to intervene in some of these cases, denying earlier certiorari petitions.

Top courts could also become reluctant to change their construction in favor of defendants if they knew that it would affect all settled cases. They should at least have some sort of discretion in that respect, as Scotus initially tried in Teague v. Lane.



Posted by: Jackson | Jul 5, 2023 10:57:48 AM

Jackson, there may be also sorts of policy reasons to not want courts to address wrongful convictions. But if a person is convicted based on an interpretation of a statute that the Supreme Court later says was wrongful, then I think it accurate to call that conviction wrongful.

Posted by: Doug B | Jul 5, 2023 8:50:24 PM

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DR. WALLACE: Im a girl and my best friend wants me to do her a favor that makes me very uncomfortable to even consider. Were both 17 and virgins and have planned to remain that way until we each marry someday far in the future. In fact, weve had many long conversations about this topic.
Americans 60 and older can get a new RSV vaccine but should discuss it with their doctor first, U.S. health officials recommended.

The newly approved vaccines are expected to be ready in the fall, a time when flu shots and updated COVID-19 shots also will be available. Those eligible for the RSV vaccine should talk with their doctor to see if it is right for them, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said in a recent statement.

The CDC said adults with chronic heart or lung disease, weakened immune systems and those living in long-term care facilities are at higher risk for the respiratory infection.

RSV, or respiratory syncytial virus, is a common cause of coldlike symptoms but it can be dangerous for infants and the elderly. A surge last year filled hospitals with wheezing children. There's no vaccine yet for kids, but one for pregnant women to prevent illness in infants may be coming too, pending approval from the Food and Drug Administration.

On Thursday, Dr. Rochelle Walensky, the outgoing CDC director, signed off on a recommendation by an advisory panel of outside experts for a single dose of the vaccines made by Pfizer and GSK. The FDA approved the shots for adults 60 and older.

The CDC panel initially considered a stronger recommendation that everyone 65 and older get the shot. But they weakened their endorsement after several members had questions about how well it works in the feeblest of patients, whether boosters will be needed and be effective, and the cost.

Drugmaker GSK told the panel that its RSV vaccine would be between $200 and $295. Pfizer has not disclosed a price. The vaccines may hold up over multiple seasons and its not yet clear whether boosters will be recommended.

Others wanted a stronger endorsement for those 65 and older. Asking people to consult their doctor is an absolute impediment to getting more people vaccinated and an extra burden on health care providers, said Robert Blancato, executive director of the National Association of Nutrition and Aging Services Programs.

States with the highest flu vaccination rates States with the highest flu vaccination rates #51. Mississippi #50. Wyoming #49. Nevada #47. Idaho (tie) #47. Florida (tie) #46. Oklahoma #45. Louisiana #44. Arizona #43. Montana #42. Georgia #41. Texas #40. Tennessee #39. Alabama #37. West Virginia (tie) #37. South Carolina (tie) #36. California #35. Kentucky #34. Alaska #33. Ohio #31. Oregon (tie) #31. Arkansas (tie) #30. Missouri #29. Utah #28. Indiana #27. North Carolina #26. New Mexico #25. Illinois #24. North Dakota #23. Kansas #22. Wisconsin #21. Delaware #20. New York #19. Hawaii #18. Nebraska #16. South Dakota (tie) #16. Pennsylvania (tie) #15. Iowa #14. Virginia #13. Michigan #12. Washington #11. Colorado #10. Minnesota #9. Maine #8. New Jersey #7. Vermont #6. Maryland #5. New Hampshire #4. Massachusetts #3. Connecticut #2. Washington DC #1. Rhode Island
Theres only silence. Waves of heat cause the blacktop to steam. Outdoor dogs slouch with snouts on sweaty paws, without raising hooded eyes. They offer no usual chase, only a feeble growl as kids peddle slowly by. The stillness envelopes newly planted corn, so if your heads cocked just right, you hear it moan growing. Thermometers glow 98, but its hotter.

Old men, rub aching knees and nod knowingly.

30 miles north, thunder begins its roar, wind buckle shingles on roofs long overdue as lightning begins a fireworks show not seen since two 4ths ago.

On one channel, a baby forecaster shouts dire predictions warning folks to head for the basement, an interior room, or maybe put a pot from Moms kitchen on your head.

A storm is coming.

Its time to prepare.

The ingredients for summer storms are simple. Its one part heat, two parts humidity causing moisture to rapidly rise colling with cooler air until it explodes into a storm. Its not preventable.

But the coming Nov. 7th political storm can be stopped if we recognize the ingredients and act. Most pundits call this an off-year election. But if you care about your public school, theyre wrong.

For thunderstorms, we look for lost flashlights, find the candles, listen to the forecasts, and take cover. Theres a need to protect what matters.

A political storm is ignited when one party dominates with messaging fueled by wedge issues which divides and sews distrust in respected institutions like public schools.

LGBTQ Iowa protest Hundreds gather at the Iowa State Capitol to protest LGBTQ-focused bills in state Legislature on March 5.

It began during the winter when Gov. Kim Reynolds and her legislative lemmings alternated between attacking LGBTQ people and writing vague legislation to ban books in public schools while siphoning money from public schools to private using vouchers.

The final ingredient is 11 political candidates vying for the Republican nomination for president nightly flooding the airwaves with rhetoric short on facts and long on grievance.

Those are ingredients for a perfect political storm.

We need to prepare now. Here are three suggestions for preventing the coming storm. First, ask hard questions that might help your community avoid candidates who create chaos instead of consensus.

Why do you want to be on the school board?

When was your last visit to a public school?

How would you handle losing an election?

Are you affiliated with any group? If you are, what is the name of the group, and how do you as a candidate differ from the agenda of that group?

What are your priorities for the district?

How do you feel about private school vouchers?

Who should determine curriculum content?

How would you get parents involved in the school?

What should the procedure be if a parent has a complaint about curriculum?

Do you believe parents are the school districts customers? Why?

How will you work as a team with the other school board members?

Define woke.

Second, watch the candidates campaign. If he/she attacks existing board members from the start and never really goes beyond attacking, you have a candidate who is more negative than interested in protecting the future for our students. These are what my dad called, Axe to grind candidates.

Third, follow the money. Its surprising how much money is spent in a school board race. Watch to see what individuals or groups contribute. Look to see who volunteers for the candidate. If its not clear, ask the candidate directly.

For this storm, it will take more than cowering in a basement. It takes critical thinking and caring about the future for Iowas students.

Bruce Lear, who lives in Sioux City, has been connected to public schools for 38 years. He taught for 11 years and represented educators as an Iowa State Education Association regional director for 27 years until retiring.
As the Fourth of July fast approaches, I hope that the people of Sioux City will develop a little consideration for their neighbors.

Not everyone enjoys the fireworks and the resultant explosions. To many of our veterans with PTSD, those explosions force them to relive the horrors that lurk in their past.

Thousands of people are hurt each year from fireworks. Some maimed for life, and some killed.

It isn't just those that are using fireworks that are hurt. some are innocent bystanders who have never set off fireworks in their life, but just wanted to watch the displays. I would remind you of a small child in Ankeny Iowa that was just sitting in their driveway when an errant bomb from across the street landed in their lap.

Matiss Kivlenieks, a former player for the Sioux City Musketeers, was sitting in a hot tub when a mortar tilted and hit him in the chest with a shell, killing him.

Millions of dollars in property damage are lost due to fires caused by fireworks.

Don't forget all of the pets that are terrified by the noise of war, that they simply cannot understand. More pets run away during the first week of July than at any other time of the year because of fireworks.

If one child can be saved from being burned, maimed or even killed by banning fireworks in Sioux City, isn't it worth it? -- Mark Solheim, Sioux City
Every single Iowan regardless of race, income, or ability deserves the right to age with dignity. However, we are tragically under-serving Iowas aging population.

The pandemic exacerbated an already-festering problem in Iowa -- lack of oversight and regulation in nursing homes. Before the pandemic, the state Department of Inspections and Appeals was responding to only 35% of serious complaints in 10 days or fewer. This department was woefully understaffed and underfunded then. COVID made it worse.

According to ProPublica, of Iowas approximately 420 nursing homes, about 32% have been cited, many of them repeatedly, for violations serious enough to jeopardize health or safety.

This month, Iowa Capital Dispatch reported that death-related violations were cited in nursing facilities in Coralville, Pleasantville and Sioux City. The Sioux City facilitys violations resulted in four resident deaths.

Legislators from both parties at the state and federal levels have called for more transparency and regulation. Yet, most Republican legislators who hold the majority in the House and Senate ignore the issue and continue to distract and divide constituents on bathroom use, book banning and wokeness.

Wake up. Pay attention. Check out this website for information and ratings for nursing homes in all states: Nursinghome411.org. Your life or that of your loved ones depends on it. Reach out to your state legislators and ask them to hold hearings and pass legislation about this crisis. -- Karen Heidman, Sioux City
Back in the early 2010s, my mom, older sister, and I would all pile into the biggest dressing room we could find, all the way in the back of our local Miami Loehmanns. Known for its off-season designer brands, the store was conveniently located next to a shop called MUSIC, where my sister and I took lessons. In her endless pursuit to pass the time while I blared away on my guitar, my mom had become a devoted follower of this discount Disney World tucked away in a strip mall. None of us knew anything about the designersthe price tags highlighting the steep discounts did all the legwork in luring us. Some days Id walk out with armfuls of $5 dresses, the three of us practically glowing.

Here is what it felt like to spend an afternoon under those fluorescent lights: Wed each carry our piles of finds into one cubicle and hang them up on all the knobs and slats available. Wed take turns yanking too-tight jeans up our thighs and pulling down tube dresses that got stuck at our armpits, our bellies bouncing with laughter. Wed be so loud, and it was so funny sometimes that Id think I just peed myself a little. Wed try to shush each other in between bellows. I look like a tamal envuelto, wed take turns shouting out at each other. Wed contort ourselves and still end up trapped inside halter tops.

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Im a tween in these memories, and I havent yet learned the difficult, imprecise math of womens clothing sizes. Instead, we pick enough options to leave room for the inevitable misfires, even though I know that some of these Loehmanns designs were made for lankier bodies. Are the other women in the neighboring stalls laughing at the person theyd thought they could be when they picked out todays garments too? When the items end up being ropa de perchero, as we call themclothes that are meant only to be hungI cant complain. Im starting to understand that these clothes werent made for me, and in that way, I realize that, here in this dressing room, were performing a heist.

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Loehmanns crumbled in the years that followed before briefly coming back as an online retailer. Its spot in the strip mall has since been transformed into a medical center. Its been years since Ive felt as free as I used to feel in those dressing rooms. I live in central Illinois now, without my mom or sister. Our stores here are frozen in timePink still sells the bright body mists I kept stashed in my high school shoulder purses.

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A few weekends ago, I walked into my local mall to do what I once dreaded most: bathing suit shopping. On this particular Sunday, the mall is eerily vacant. Very few places are selling bathing suits. At Victorias Secret, I ask the associate for their swimwear. Sorry, but we only carry that online now, he tells me. I walk straight out to the parking lot and order a two-piece from Skimsthe Kardashian-based online brandon my phone. This is what a lot of shopping in 2023 looks like.

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Ever since online shopping first came on the scene in the early 80s, its been on the rise. First, it was the dot-com rush that helped kill stores like Loehmanns; now its influencers on TikTok, showcasing their hauls from their homes. (I decided to try Victorias Secret only after seeing a plus-size creators video about her purchase.) One report found that 70 percent of Americans shop onlinea 16 percent increase from just three years ago. Obviously something big happened in those years: a pandemic that transformed public space. While some stores remained open, most dressing rooms shuttered, and online sales dominated. Our bedrooms became our fitting rooms.

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There are obvious benefits to moving away from in-person shopping. For one thing, sizes often not offered in stores are much more accessible. And scrolling through an online catalog helps me envision the potential of an outfit. But I cant help but feel that a major way weve come to relate to style and fashion is being lost. Im trying to hold on, but sometimes I think Im totally alone in having actually positive memories of these spaces. When I asked around among friends and colleagues about their own memories, I received a lot of colorful complaints about dressing rooms. One friend, Natalie R., a 24-year-old in New York, wrote me an impassioned list of everything she hates: How fucking hot it is, those curtains that never fully close, when they only let you bring five things in and then I have to leave stuff with the attendant. Do I have to get dressed in my own clothes? Can I be in my socks? I am so vulnerable. She likened it to going through TSA. Many folks I talked to now prefer the TikTok-haul mode of fitting rooms: buying clothes, trying them on at home, and returning the items they dont like.

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I truly hate dressing rooms, my own sister told me. At home, youre in natural lighting, in the comfort of your place, no ones bothering you.  Im always more likely to like the clothes if I try it on at home because Im in a better mood. Its like a real-time example of how people differher Loehmanns memories dont loom nearly as large as mine do.

Related from Slate Pamela Gwyn Kripke One Day, I Slipped a Note Under the Door of a Loud Neighbor. Only Later Did I Realize My Mistake. Read More

But no one, not even me, misses the dread of having to face an attendant after theyve decided they hate everything they tried on. Recently, at Free People, I actually apologized to the woman who helped me for not liking a single thing. And the curtains that inevitably gap? Its just the worst.

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So I am sympathetic to all of these explanations of why our new habits are better. And, honestly, more: Dressing rooms are where I learned some very hard lessons about what its like to be a person who is big and exists in the world. In places like Loehmanns, my mom and my sister taught me how to make this body I inherited work, against the odds. But that doesnt mean I dont remember standing in a Bloomingdales dressing room, hysteria rising in my voice, as I realized that the dresses Id pulled were now two or three sizes bigger than normal and they still didnt zip. Next to me, my mom calmly explained that numbers vary by brand. Still, that day spelled out the fear I constantly lived withthat one day I might not fit into any size at all. What then?

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When my best friends and I used to pile into the car to go to Forever 21, I always knew what would happen there. My cheeks would redden when I couldnt find a miniskirt or dress with enough stretch to close. Id resort to picking up a necklace or pair of earrings instead. Year after year, I stretched Target bathing suit bottoms across my legs, knowing that the stuff my teen counterparts could pull off would simply look obscene on me. Dressing rooms have felt worse than body-con dresses: tight, claustrophobic, unwearable. Each room held a fun house mirror with different distortions, and sides of myself I didnt want to see. They were places for big emotions. I understand the desire to feel these complicated things in private, at home, just as well as anyone.

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But I also think of the unreplicable moments. At Macys, when I slipped on a Guess leather vest and decided to use it to launch a new personality. Some days, the stars aligned, the overhead light was golden, and the American Eagle sundress fit in all the perfect places. Id walk out of the cubicle to a gaggle of smiling friends who were convinced I would die if I didnt buy it.

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Dressing rooms are also the backdrop of our special occasions: the place where we might imagine who well be at our proms and on our summer vacations. I first laid eyes on the dress that would become my lucky amulet on every first date for years to come in a Marshalls fitting room. And because everyone around you is searching too, its one of the few remaining places where striking up a conversation feels natural. I like making a temporary little stranger friend when youre both there alone who is like, What kind of event is this for? No, I totally think it works and the green is great,  Slate copy editor Robin Dickerhoof said.

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Theres a reason dressing rooms are a vital component of the makeover montages in beloved films and episodes of television. For me, the magic of a dressing room exists in figuring out where I can tweak, sew, or pin to make something work, often with the help of my friends or loved ones who are there with me as my personal fashion counsel. Its a place for imagination and seeing potential. If clothing is expression, then dressing rooms are the space to workshop. When it works, when the sizes are right and an item makes you feel more yourself, you sail. Its a lovely place to play dress-up.

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When I enter dressing rooms now, they are a neutral place. I dont panic when the clothes inevitably still dont fit. But I also go on fewer shopping trips. I do most of my browsing online. I rarely have a second opinion join me at the mall. Most dressing rooms in town are empty. Ive lost the social part of fashion, and I havent found a way to replace it. I send photos out to my group chats, hoping Ill get a text back before I reach the register.

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Just before Memorial Day this year, I drove two hours north to a mall that eclipses what my small town offers. I waited in lines to try things on! I leaned over to my fiance and told him, I forgot how much I hate waiting in these by the time wed reached our third store. At Abercrombie, the dozens of people snaking around the racks had a clear vantage point of the rooms, which the store employees commandeered like sergeants. I worried about holding up the process, so I snapped photos and pulled my partner aside after we escaped. Which shorts: the longer ones or the shorter ones? I asked, swiping back and forth. At another store, one woman complimented the skirt I came in with. I was buzzing. I heard moms bicker with their daughters in the stall next door. I debated the merits of purchasing a new long-sleeved shirt in the middle of May while overhearing Urban Outfitters girls talking about their college majors. I thought about how I couldve left with only a pair of earrings that afternoon, and still the drive wouldve been worth it. But instead? I got the shorter shorts.
Trump has been indicted twice so far this yearand there might be more where that came from. Jack Smiths special counsel investigation into potential interference with the transfer of power after the 2020 electionincluding the Jan. 6 insurrectionseems to be heating up, with several new developments coming to light this week.

Heres what we know about the investigation so far.

Georgias secretary of state was asked about that infamous phone call

Brad Raffensperger recently met with investigators about the phone call he received from Trump in the weeks following the 2020 general election. During that call, Trump demanded Raffensperger find 11,780 votes for him in Georgia and suggested he could face criminal consequences if he refused. This call took place just days before the Jan. 6, 2021, insurrection at the Capitol.

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Raffensberger continuously pushed back against Trumps claims and Georgia went through several recountsincluding a hand-recount of nearly 5 million votesand certified that Joe Biden had won the states 2020 general election.

Smith had initially subpoenaed Raffensberger for documents last December, but now his team is interested in speaking directly with the secretary.

A fake electors scheme is being questioned

After the 2020 election, Trump and his team of lawyers allegedly concocted several ways to overturn states election results, including convincing local and federal officials that Biden was not the lawful winner and that there were fraudulent efforts at play. This developed into a complex and confusing fake electors scheme. Trump lawyers were directed to persuade Republican officials in seven swing statesstates that Biden had wonto put together documents that falsely declared Trump their states official winner.

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The New York Times reported that several dozen Trump allies signed false slates of electors, even though their states reported no legitimate claims of voter fraud and they all certified Bidens Electoral College victory.

Smiths team has been digging into this plot, the Washington Post reported this week, looking specifically at whether Trumps lawyersRudy Giuliani, John Eastman, Jeffrey Clark, and otherswere following the former presidents direct instructions and what exactly those instructions were. Multiple witnesses have been questioned over Trumps lawyers actions, according to the Post. CNN also reported that at least two Republican fake electors were compelled to testify in front of a grand jury in exchange for limited immunity.

Rudy Giuliani accepted a proffer agreement

Giuliani, who was Trumps personal attorney during the 2020 election, led the legal fight to overturn Bidens victory. He not only filed numerous lawsuits on Trumps behalf that contested states election results, but he also allegedly oversaw the fake electors scheme.

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In a rare move, Giuliani volunteered to be interviewed by the special counsels office as part of a proffer agreement. Its a legal maneuver typically used with a targets decision that he or she does not believe they can win at trial and therefore must make a deal, former federal prosecutor Robert Katzberg explained in a recent post for Slate.

The New York Times reported that Giulianis interview touched on a range of topics, including how Trump tried to hold on to power despite losing the 2020 presidential race, details of the fake electors plan, and former Trump lawyer Sidney Powells theory of foreign actors hacking into U.S. voting machines in order to steal the election from Trump.

Secret Service agents were interviewed

About two dozen Secret Service agents appeared before a grand jury and five or six complied with subpoenas in an effort to shed more light on Trumps inner circle during the moments leading up to the Jan. 6 insurrection, according to NBC News. Their testimony could also potentially validate former White House aide Cassidy Hutchinsons testimony to the House Jan. 6 committee.

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Hutchinson made headlines when she told Congress shed heard secondhand that Trump wanted Secret Service agents to drive him to the Capitol so he could join rioters. Trump went so far as grabbing the cars steering wheel and reaching for his drivers clavicles.

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Related from Slate Robert Katzberg Does Rudy Giulianis Proffer Mean Hes About to Flip Against Trump? Read More

While all of this is going on, a separate investigation from a district attorney in Georgia is also underway that could potentially result in charges for Trump.

For more than two years, Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis has been looking into Trumps efforts to overturn her states 2020 election results. We know Willis is focusing on the phone call between Trump and Raffensbergerher office has also called on him to testify. Her investigation is also focusing on the Trump campaigns efforts to persuade the Georgia Legislature to declare Trump their states winner, along with Trumps efforts to secure fake electors in Georgia and a potentially unauthorized breach of election equipment in rural Georgia.

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Willis has indicated she may use Georgias Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations (RICO) statute to argue Trumps efforts amounted to a criminal scheme. This would also let Willis build a racketeering case around both local and federal laws, and could even cover activity in other states beyond Georgia.

Georgias RICO statute is considered the most expansive in the country, according to the Post, and allows prosecutors to point to a pattern of behavior, even if it falls outside the state of Georgia. Willis could pull in Trumps efforts to overturn election results in, say, the state of Arizona, which also had a slate of fake electors that aimed to overrule Bidens win.

Willis is expected to announce an indictment against Trump in August.
Cyber security goes beyond a mere requirementIn todays digitally-driven era; it has become a critical business lifeline. For small businesses, safeguarding their digital resources, including their data and network information, is paramount. Cyber security specialists stand at the forefront of this digital fortress, protecting an organizations precious data and network integrity from potential security breaches and cyber-attacks.

Assembling a team of proficient cybersecurity experts can significantly tilt the scale in favor of small businesses. These specialists bring a wealth of technical expertise to the table. Their knowledge spans from an intricate understanding of common networking ports and their security implications to proficiency in implementing sophisticated intrusion detection systems. Their skill set enables them to anticipate, detect, and neutralize threats, fortifying the business against digital adversities.

Why Defining Cyber Security Job Responsibilities is Key for Success

One cannot emphasize enough the importance of crafting a precise and detailed cybersecurity job description. Clearly defined roles and responsibilities help attract qualified candidates capable of providing quality service, safeguarding sensitive information, and staying ahead of external threats like data breaches.

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Cyber Security Overview

The Critical Responsibilities of a Cyber Security Specialist

A cyber security specialist is the guardian of information systems. They identify security risks, implement security policies, and keep users informed about their system status. They also perform periodic audits and continuously monitor for any malicious activities.

Protecting Data

Securing an organizations data, especially sensitive data, is the top priority. From customer information to financial records, cyber security specialists work to establish defense-in-depth strategies and security controls.

Monitoring and Response

Monitoring traffic flow through network data and identifying unusual patterns or activities is essential. Cybersecurity professionals must act promptly to mitigate risks if a breach is detected.

Employee Training

Educating other employees on security best practices and potential threats is a proactive approach to securing a business.

Key Skills Needed for a Cyber Security Specialist Position

Technical Proficiency

A deep understanding of software systems, network security, and common security elements is essential. This includes familiarity with the OSI model, intrusion detection systems, and vulnerability assessment tools.

Analytical Prowess

Evaluating trends, analyzing complex data, and synthesizing information to produce understandable performance reports is vital.

Communication

Cyber security specialists must communicate effectively with other employees and government organizations to ensure cohesive security measures.

Responsibility Description Protecting Data Establish defense-in-depth strategies and security controls to secure an organization's sensitive data and information. Develop and implement data encryption, access controls, and authentication mechanisms to safeguard data. Regularly assess and update security protocols to adapt to emerging threats and vulnerabilities. Monitoring and Response Continuously monitor network traffic and systems for suspicious activities, intrusions, or security breaches. Investigate and respond promptly to security incidents, mitigating risks and minimizing the impact of breaches. Implement intrusion detection systems and security event monitoring tools to detect and alert on potential threats. Employee Training Educate employees on security best practices, including password hygiene, phishing awareness, and social engineering tactics. Conduct security awareness programs and provide regular updates to keep users informed about the current threat landscape. Collaborate with HR and management to ensure security policies and procedures are communicated and enforced across the organization. Key Skills Technical Proficiency Analytical Prowess Ability to evaluate trends, analyze complex data, and identify patterns or anomalies that may indicate potential security threats. Proficient in using security analytics tools and techniques for threat intelligence and risk assessment. Generate actionable insights and produce understandable performance reports to facilitate decision-making. Communication Effective communication skills to interact with employees, management, and government organizations on security-related matters. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure cohesive security measures are implemented and maintained. Prepare and deliver clear and concise security reports, documentation, and presentations to various stakeholders.

Crafting an Efficient Job Description

Small businesses should focus on drafting a specialist job description that reflects the breadth and depth of responsibilities. It should detail the required skills, educational background (typically a bachelors degree in computer science or equivalent education), and the working hours.

Cybersecurity Job Description: Templates for Hiring at Your Business

Here are templates to get started:

Job Template 1:

Position: Cybersecurity Analyst

Company: [Company Name]

Location: [City, State]

About Us: [Company Name] is a small business operating in the [industry/niche] sector. We prioritize the security and protection of our data and systems. We are currently seeking a skilled and knowledgeable Cybersecurity Analyst to join our team and ensure the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of our information assets.

Responsibilities:

Conduct regular security assessments and vulnerability scans to identify potential risks and vulnerabilities. Monitor security logs and investigate security incidents and breaches. Implement and maintain security controls, including firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and antivirus software. Develop and enforce security policies and procedures. Perform risk assessments and create mitigation plans. Stay updated on emerging threats and industry best practices. Conduct security awareness training for employees. Collaborate with IT teams to implement security measures and solutions. Respond to and manage security incidents, including incident reporting and analysis. Conduct forensic analysis and incident investigations as needed.



Qualifications:

Bachelors degree in Cybersecurity, Information Technology, or a related field. Proven experience in cybersecurity roles, preferably in a small business environment. Knowledge of security frameworks and standards (e.g., NIST, ISO 27001). Familiarity with network and systems security principles. Strong understanding of malware, intrusion detection, and prevention systems. Experience in vulnerability scanning and penetration testing. Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills. Effective communication and collaboration abilities. Relevant certifications (e.g., CompTIA Security+, CISSP, CISM) are a plus.



Benefits:

Competitive salary and benefits package. Opportunities for professional development and training. Dynamic and challenging work environment.



To Apply: If you are interested in the position of Cybersecurity Analyst, please submit your resume, cover letter, and any relevant certifications to [email address] with the subject line Cybersecurity Analyst Application  [Your Name]. We appreciate your interest and will carefully review all applications.

[Company Name] is an equal opportunity employer. We value diversity and do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, or any other protected characteristic. We encourage all qualified individuals to apply.

Job Template 2:

Position: Security Operations Center (SOC) Analyst

Company: [Company Name]

Location: [City, State]

About Us: [Company Name] is a small business focused on cybersecurity in the [industry/niche] sector. We are dedicated to protecting our clients information assets and maintaining a secure digital environment. We are currently seeking a skilled and proactive Security Operations Center (SOC) Analyst to join our team and monitor and respond to security incidents.

Responsibilities:

Monitor security events and alerts from various sources, including security information and event management (SIEM) systems. Analyze and investigate security incidents to determine the root cause and impact. Respond to security incidents in a timely and effective manner, following established procedures. Conduct threat hunting activities to proactively identify and mitigate potential threats. Perform vulnerability assessments and penetration testing. Maintain and update security documentation, including incident reports and standard operating procedures. Collaborate with other teams to implement security controls and ensure compliance with security policies. Stay updated on emerging threats and industry trends. Assist in the development and improvement of security monitoring and incident response processes. Participate in security incident drills and exercises.



Qualifications:

Bachelors degree in Cybersecurity, Information Technology, or a related field. Previous experience in a security operations center (SOC) or incident response role. Knowledge of security information and event management (SIEM) tools. Familiarity with network protocols, firewalls, and intrusion detection systems. Strong understanding of common cybersecurity threats and attack vectors. Analytical thinking and problem-solving skills. Effective communication and collaboration abilities. Relevant certifications (e.g., CompTIA Security+, GCIH, GCIA) are a plus.



Benefits:

Competitive salary and benefits package. Opportunities for professional development and certifications. Collaborative and fast-paced work environment.



To Apply: If you are interested in the position of Security Operations Center (SOC) Analyst, please submit your resume, cover letter, and any relevant certifications to [email address] with the subject line SOC Analyst Application  [Your Name]. We appreciate your interest and will carefully review all applications.

[Company Name] is an equal opportunity employer. We value diversity and do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, or any other protected characteristic. We encourage all qualified individuals to apply.

Job Template 3:

Position: Cybersecurity Engineer

Company: [Company Name]

Location: [City, State]

About Us: [Company Name] is a small business specializing in cybersecurity solutions for [industry/niche]. We are committed to providing robust and effective cybersecurity measures to protect our clients sensitive information. We are currently seeking a skilled and experienced Cybersecurity Engineer to join our team and design, implement, and maintain cybersecurity infrastructure.

Responsibilities:

Design and implement security systems and controls, including firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and encryption technologies. Conduct security assessments and risk analysis to identify vulnerabilities and recommend appropriate solutions. Monitor and respond to security incidents, conducting root cause analysis and implementing preventive measures. Develop and enforce security policies and procedures. Collaborate with IT teams to ensure security measures are integrated into system architectures. Stay updated on emerging threats and industry best practices. Conduct security awareness training for employees. Participate in the evaluation and selection of security products and vendors. Perform security audits and compliance assessments. Assist in the development and improvement of incident response plans.



Qualifications:

Bachelors degree in Cybersecurity, Computer Science, or a related field. Proven experience in cybersecurity engineering or similar roles. In-depth knowledge of cybersecurity principles, technologies, and best practices. Familiarity with security frameworks and standards (e.g., NIST, ISO 27001). Experience with security systems and tools, such as SIEM, IDS/IPS, and endpoint protection. Strong problem-solving and analytical skills. Excellent communication and collaboration abilities. Relevant certifications (e.g., CISSP, CISM, CEH) are a plus.



Benefits:

Competitive salary and benefits package. Opportunities for professional development and certifications. Dynamic and challenging work environment.



To Apply: If you are interested in the position of Cybersecurity Engineer, please submit your resume, cover letter, and any relevant certifications to [email address] with the subject line Cybersecurity Engineer Application  [Your Name]. We appreciate your interest and will carefully review all applications.

[Company Name] is an equal opportunity employer. We value diversity and do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, or any other protected characteristic. We encourage all qualified individuals to apply.

Job Template 4:

Position: Security Consultant

Company: [Company Name]

Location: [City, State]

About Us: [Company Name] is a small business providing cybersecurity consulting services to clients in [industry/niche]. We are dedicated to helping businesses strengthen their security posture and protect their critical assets. We are currently seeking a knowledgeable and experienced Security Consultant to join our team and provide expert advice and solutions to our clients.

Responsibilities:

Conduct security assessments and risk analysis for clients to identify vulnerabilities and weaknesses. Develop and implement customized cybersecurity strategies and solutions. Provide guidance on security policies, procedures, and best practices. Conduct penetration testing and vulnerability assessments. Assist clients in achieving compliance with relevant regulations and standards. Conduct security awareness training for client employees. Stay updated on emerging threats, industry trends, and regulatory changes. Prepare and present detailed reports and recommendations to clients. Collaborate with client stakeholders to implement security measures and controls. Provide ongoing support and guidance to clients regarding cybersecurity matters.



Qualifications:

Bachelors degree in Cybersecurity, Information Technology, or a related field. Proven experience as a Security Consultant or similar role. Deep understanding of cybersecurity principles, technologies, and frameworks. Knowledge of industry regulations and standards (e.g., GDPR, HIPAA, PCI DSS). Strong analytical and problem-solving skills. Excellent communication and consulting abilities. Relevant certifications (e.g., CISSP, CISM, ISO 27001 Lead Auditor) are a plus.



Benefits:

Competitive salary and benefits package. Opportunities for professional development and certifications. Collaborative and client-focused work environment.



To Apply: If you are interested in the position of Security Consultant, please submit your resume, cover letter, and any relevant certifications to [email address] with the subject line Security Consultant Application  [Your Name]. We appreciate your interest and will carefully review all applications.

[Company Name] is an equal opportunity employer. We value diversity and do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, or any other protected characteristic. We encourage all qualified individuals to apply.

Job Template Cybersecurity Analyst Security Operations Center (SOC) Analyst Cybersecurity Engineer Security Consultant Position Cybersecurity Analyst Security Operations Center (SOC) Analyst Cybersecurity Engineer Security Consultant Company [Company Name] [Company Name] [Company Name] [Company Name] Location [City, State] [City, State] [City, State] [City, State] About Us Small business operating in the [industry/niche] sector. Small business focused on cybersecurity. Small business specializing in cybersecurity solutions. Small business providing cybersecurity consulting services. Responsibilities - Conduct security assessments and vulnerability scans. - Monitor security logs and investigate incidents. - Implement and maintain security controls. - Develop and enforce security policies. - Stay updated on emerging threats. - Monitor security events and alerts. - Analyze and investigate security incidents. - Respond to security incidents. - Perform vulnerability assessments. - Maintain security documentation. - Design and implement security systems and controls. - Conduct risk analysis and mitigation. - Monitor and respond to security incidents. - Develop and enforce security policies. - Stay updated on emerging threats. - Conduct security assessments and risk analysis. - Develop and implement cybersecurity strategies. - Provide guidance on security policies and compliance. - Conduct penetration testing. - Prepare detailed reports and recommendations. Qualifications - Bachelor's degree in Cybersecurity or related field. - Proven experience in cybersecurity roles. - Knowledge of security frameworks and standards. - Familiarity with network and systems security. - Strong problem-solving skills. - Bachelor's degree in Cybersecurity or related field. - Previous experience in SOC or incident response. - Knowledge of SIEM tools and network protocols. - Familiarity with common cybersecurity threats. - Analytical thinking skills. - Bachelor's degree in Cybersecurity or related field. - Proven experience in cybersecurity engineering. - In-depth knowledge of cybersecurity principles and technologies. - Familiarity with security systems and tools. - Strong problem-solving skills. - Bachelor's degree in Cybersecurity or related field. - Proven experience as a Security Consultant. - Deep understanding of cybersecurity principles and frameworks. - Knowledge of industry regulations and standards. - Excellent communication and consulting skills. Benefits - Competitive salary and benefits package. - Opportunities for professional development. - Dynamic work environment. - Competitive salary and benefits package. - Opportunities for professional development. - Collaborative work environment. - Competitive salary and benefits package. - Opportunities for professional development. - Dynamic work environment. - Competitive salary and benefits package. - Opportunities for professional development. - Collaborative work environment. To Apply Submit resume, cover letter, and relevant certifications to [email address] with the subject line "Cybersecurity Analyst Application - [Your Name]." Submit resume, cover letter, and relevant certifications to [email address] with the subject line "SOC Analyst Application - [Your Name]." Submit resume, cover letter, and relevant certifications to [email address] with the subject line "Cybersecurity Engineer Application - [Your Name]." Submit resume, cover letter, and relevant certifications to [email address] with the subject line "Security Consultant Application - [Your Name]."

Customize these templates to align with your organizations standards and needs.

Interview Process and Selection

Screen potential candidates by evaluating their educational workshops, technical acumen in cybersecurity fields, and past experience. Assess if they can accomplish related results per your organizational standards.

Onboarding and Training

After hiring, provide an advanced understanding of your businesss security needs. Include training in specific security tools, security frameworks (e.g., NIST, ISO 27001), and cybersecurity trends.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the common cybersecurity job titles?

Cybersecurity job titles range from Cybersecurity Analyst, Cybersecurity Consultant, to Penetration Tester and Incident Response Specialist.

What is the typical education requirement for a cybersecurity specialist?

Most cybersecurity specialists have a bachelors degree in computer science or information technology. Some positions may require a masters degree.

What are the common cybersecurity best practices?

Cybersecurity best practices include regularly updating software applications, using strong passwords, backing up data regularly, and using secure networks.

How does a small business benefit from hiring a cybersecurity professional?

Having a cybersecurity professional helps small businesses protect their sensitive data from cyber threats, enhance customer trust, and comply with legal and regulatory requirements.

What are some cybersecurity trends for small businesses?

Trends include the increasing use of AI and machine learning in threat detection, the growing importance of data privacy, and the rising threat of cyber attacks on small businesses.

Ensuring robust cybersecurity in small businesses is non-negotiable in todays world. With the right cybersecurity job descriptions and qualified professionals on your team, you can rest assured knowing your businesss digital assets are well-protected.
States such as Arizona, Arkansas, Connecticut, Illinois, Kansas, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Nevada, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Pennsylvania, Utah and Wyoming as well as the District of Columbia require an employment agency license. Although fees for these licenses in some states are standard regardless of the size of the agency, others are based on the number of agents in the agency. For instance, the fee in Kansas is $25 annually, while in Illinois, the annual fee for agencies with two or fewer agents is $250; three to five agents pay $350; six to 10 agents pay $400; and agencies with more than 10 agents must pay $500.
After a protester set the Quran on fire in front of a mosque in Stockholm, Sweden, the government of Iran has decided not to send a replacement ambassador to the country.

Repercussions of Quran-Burning in Sweden

On the first day of Eid al-Adha, an Iraqi refugee burned a copy of the Quran outside a mosque. Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian of Iran has accused the Swedish administration of wrongdoing by issuing him a license for a demonstration, BBC reported.

Riots broke out in Sweden recently because of plans to burn copies of the Quran. Recently, police had denied similar protest petitions, but judges concluded that they should be permitted based on free speech concerns.

Damage or disrespect shown to the Quran is considered a grave insult by Muslims who revere it as God's message.

According to Amirabdollahian, even if Iran's capital Tehran has appointed a new ambassador, they will not be sending them. In a Reuters report, he added, "The process of dispatching them has been held off due to the Swedish government's issuing of a permit to desecrate the Holy Koran."

Iraq's foreign ministry has also requested that the Swedish authorities extradite the guy responsible for burning the Quran. Since he is still an Iraqi citizen, they said, he should be prosecuted in Baghdad, the capital of Iraq.

Following the event, hundreds of Iraqi demonstrators, incited by the renowned Shia preacher Moqtaha al-Sadr, stormed the Swedish embassy in Iraq. A security team was dispatched after 15 minutes, and they departed.

The Swedish prime minister, Ulf Kristersson, condemned the embassy attack but also said his country needed to look deeper into its own identity.

"It is of course completely unacceptable for people to unlawfully break into Swedish embassies in other countries. I think we also need to reflect in Sweden. It is a serious security situation, there is no reason to insult other people," Kristersson stated.

Also Read: Iraq Criticizes Sweden After Man Burns a Copy of the Quran During a Police-Authorized Protest

A Call To Prohibit the Promotion of Religious Bigotry

On Sunday, July 2, BBC reported that the Organization of Islamic Cooperation held an emergency meeting in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. It demanded that member nations adopt "unified and collective measures" to prevent countries from burning copies of the Quran.

Secretary General Hissein Brahim Taha called the Quran burnings "not mere ordinary Islamophobia incidents." He exhorted governments all across the globe to comply with international law, which categorically forbids the encouragement of any kind of religious hatred.

After the event, many nations summoned back their ambassadors from Stockholm, including Morocco, Kuwait, Jordan, and the United Arab Emirates.

Some countries with Muslim majorities, like NATO member Turkey, which might influence Sweden's membership application, are also upset about this. The country's foreign minister said tolerating anti-Islam marches in the name of free speech was unacceptable.

Also Read: Sweden Permits Koran-Burning Rally Outside Mosque, Risking Turkey's Ire

@ 2023 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
https://sputnikglobe.com/20230702/as-france-rocked-by-riots-again-macron-looks-like-spent-force-1111628777.html

As France Rocked by Riots Again, Macron Looks Like 'Spent Force'

As France Rocked by Riots Again, Macron Looks Like 'Spent Force'

France has already seen five consequent nights of violence after the shooting of a 17-year-old driver of Algerian descent Nahel Merzouk by a police officer. What do the immigrant riots mean for the country and Emmanuel Macron's presidency?

2023-07-02T19:02+0000

2023-07-02T19:02+0000

2023-07-02T19:02+0000

analysis

europe

the united nations (un)

france

belgium

brussels

eric zemmour

emmanuel macron

opinion

migrants

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"Immigrant riots are an already old and frequent occurrence in France where a large legal and illegal population of mostly African and Near Eastern origin has not been successfully assimilated and does not regard itself as French," Come Carpentier de Gourdon, geopolitical analyst and convener of the editorial board of World Affairs, told Sputnik. "The second or third-generation youth is troublesome, frustrated and aggressive as it has internalized grudges against the former colonizers and thinks it has a right to live by its own rules. Its educational level is generally low and work opportunities are few."Nahel Merzouk, the teenager of Algerian descent, was shot and killed by a police officer during a traffic stop on June 27. As per the Daily Mail, the passenger who was with Nahel in the car at the time of the shooting, broke his silence on July 1, claiming that one of the police officers threatened the teenager and allegedly told him: "Don't move or I'll put a bullet in your head." The passenger went on to claim that the second officer said: "Shoot him." The first officer allegedly hit the teenager with the butt of his gun two times. After that Merzouk released the break and was then shot down.The 38-year-old police officer who killed Merzouk has been put under investigation over charges of voluntary homicide. The policeman's lawyer disputed claims that the officer had threatened to shoot the teenager in the head before firing.Meanwhile, the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) subjected Paris to criticism, as Merzouk's death became the third fatal shooting by law enforcement officers during traffic stops in France in 2023, and the 21st since 2020, according to the mainstream media.Nationwide ProtestsThe teenager's death became a pretext for nationwide protests. On July 1, around 45,000 French policemen were deployed throughout the country. The protests spilled over into Switzerland and Belgium. Over 100 rioters attacked shops and police officers Lausanne, while in Belgium's capital Brussels, protests kicked off on 30 June and proceeded relatively peacefully.Commenting on the unfolding havoc in France, leader of the right-wing French Reconquete party, Eric Zemmour, stated: "We are in the early stages of a civil war. This is an ethnic revolt.... The French are witnessing what it means to be the product of mad immigration."If organized crime and drug-related gangs hijack the protests, it could pose a serious challenge to French national security, warned Paolo Raffone, a strategic analyst and director of the CIPI Foundation in Brussels.Macron's Handling of Protests Raising QuestionsThe Elysee Palace expressed criticism over the killing of the teenager, with President Emmanuel Macron condemning the incident as "inexplicable" and "unforgivable." For his part, Minister of Internal Affairs Gerald Darmanin argued that the death of Nahel "cannot justify the disorder and the delinquency." What's more, earlier this year the nation had already been rocked by a series of protests and civil unrest over Macron's unpopular pension reform.As per de Gourdon, "Macron is a very unpopular president and has steadily seen his grip on power loosen as he lost his parliamentary majority last year and has had to enforce many decisions by Decree (49-3)."In addition, the French president's party does not look like a unified and influential force, but more like an ad hoc gathering of individuals whose only bond is their acceptance of Macrons leadership, according to the geopolitical analyst. Still, he does not think that the president will step down prior to the next presidential election. Nor will Macron hold a new parliamentary election in the near future, "for fear that the result may be even less favorable to him than the last ones, so he may remain as a lame duck president served by a practically insignificant prime minister for the rest of his tenure, unless some even more dramatic events bring about a Constitutional crisis on the scale of what happened in 1959 or 1968," per de Gourdon.The analyst believes that the party most eligible for taking power in the current circumstances is the second largest and one of the oldest in the National Assembly, Marine Le Pen's National Rally. He noted that the party "enjoys wide popular support despite the excoriation in which it is held by the establishment parties at the center and on the left and the international condemnation it is under almost since its inception."

https://sputnikglobe.com/20230702/mass-riots-in-france-have-reportedly-spread-to-two-more-european-countries-1111616705.html

https://sputnikglobe.com/20230702/macron-to-convene-minister-consultations-on-france-unrest-on-sunday-evening---reports-1111622489.html

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france immigrant riots, french police brutality, france unrest, french police killed teenager, teenager of algerian descent killed by french police, emmanuel macron, nahel merzouk, frech riots
https://sputnikglobe.com/20230702/ex-us-presidential-candidate-gabbard-slams-biden-for-nuclear-warmongering-1111612677.html

Ex-US Presidential Candidate Gabbard Slams Biden for Nuclear Warmongering

Ex-US Presidential Candidate Gabbard Slams Biden for Nuclear Warmongering

Former US presidential contender and ex-lawmaker Tulsi Gabbard has accused US President Joe Biden of pushing the world to the brink of a possible nuclear war as the Ukrainian conflict continues to escalate.

2023-07-02T06:00+0000

2023-07-02T06:00+0000

2023-07-02T06:03+0000

world

tulsi gabbard

joe biden

ukraine

russia

world

nato

video

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"We are faced with the reality. Now, President Biden's actions and policies have pushed us to the brink of nuclear war. This is an existential crisis, not only for us here, but the world. This proxy war against Russia using the Ukrainian people's lives continues to escalate," Gabbard said on Saturday at a meeting in a university in Centennial, the US state of Colorado, which was broadcast on her social media. The politician also said that NATO's weapons delivery to Ukraine would "only increase the likelihood" of a possible direct confrontation between the United States, NATO member states and Russia. "Now if you hear President Biden and his administration  talk about this, they talk about World War III and nuclear war as though it is just another war, just another conflict  it is so far removed from the reality  they are not being honest with the American people what the cost and consequences of these wars would look like," Gabbard added.Western countries have been providing financial, humanitarian and military support to Ukraine since the start of Russia's military operation in February 2022. The support evolved from lighter artillery munitions and training in 2022 to heavier weapons, including tanks, later that year and in 2023. Russia has been warning countries giving weapons to Ukraine that it sees military shipments as legitimate targets. Moreover, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has said that NATO allies' arming and training Ukrainians is tantamount to a direct involvement in the conflict.

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20230702/germany-not-supplying-long-range-arms-to-ukraine-to-prevent-attacks-against-russia---scholz-1111628252.html

Germany Not Supplying Long-Range Arms to Ukraine to Prevent Attacks Against Russia - Scholz

Germany Not Supplying Long-Range Arms to Ukraine to Prevent Attacks Against Russia - Scholz

BERLIN (Sputnik) - Germany is reluctant to supply long-range weapons to Ukraine as it does not want them to end up being used to strike Russian territory... 02.07.2023, Sputnik International

2023-07-02T17:55+0000

2023-07-02T17:55+0000

2023-07-02T17:55+0000

russia's special operation in ukraine

russia

ukraine

olaf scholz

germany

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In May, German newspaper Frankfurter Allgemeine Sonntagszeitung reported, citing sources, that Ukraine had requested the Taurus missiles from Germany.Ukraine has systematically attacked civilian targets in Russia, including territories it claims as its own in the Donbass, Crimea, Kherson and Zaporozhye, using its NATO-provided weapons to do so. Last month, the Kakhovka dam in Kherson region was destroyed in a Ukrainian attack, flooding the area and claiming several dozen lives, causing billions in damage, and threatening to leave Crimea without water. Kiev has also been shelling the Zaporozhye Nuclear Power Plant since March of 2022, with scientists warning that these attacks threaten to unleash a new Chernobyl.Ukraine has also resorted to artillery and drone attacks targeting western Russia, including Belgorod, Kursk and Voronezh, and a UAV attack on the Kremlin in May. Late last year, Kiev attempted to a long-range drone attack on Russia's Engels airbase - home to the aerial component of Russia's nuclear triad. Following this attack, Moscow decided to freeze its participation in the New START agreement, the last major nuclear treaty between Russia and the US.Kiev carries out terror shelling attacks against cities and settlements in the Donbass on a daily basis, typically using NATO-provided 155 mm artillery shells and HIMARS rockets, killing and injuring hundreds of people over the past year only.Moscow has repeatedly warned NATO of the consequences of the delivery of weapons to Ukraine, saying they not only escalate tensions between Russia and the Western bloc, but threaten to destabilize the entire planet as weapons shipped to Kiev wind up in the hands of criminals, terrorists and rebel groups throughout Europe, the Middle East and Africa.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20230629/ukraines-counteroffensive-struggling-against-russias-defences-top-nato-general-says-1111541246.html

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20230702/hello-ice-age-internet-dazed-as-biden-admin-toys-with-plan-to-block-sunlight-1111616249.html

'Hello Ice Age?' Internet Dazed as Biden Admin Toys With Plan to 'Block Sunlight'

'Hello Ice Age?' Internet Dazed as Biden Admin Toys With Plan to 'Block Sunlight'

US President Joe Biden's administration appears to be flirting with the idea of a study into whether blocking the suns rays could be used to slow global warming.

2023-07-02T10:30+0000

2023-07-02T10:30+0000

2023-07-02T10:30+0000

beyond politics

us

solar

geoengineering

bill gates

joe biden

harvard university

science & tech

climate change

global warming

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https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e6/07/0d/1097284934_0:0:3071:1728_1920x0_80_0_0_1da99abbcd7dd28c02720df22e735dc8.jpg

US President Joe Biden's administration appears to be flirting with the idea of a study into whether blocking the Suns rays could be used to slow global warming. A report, required by Congress, has been published on the White House website. It outlines research options linked to the process known as Solar Radiation Modification (SRM). What the document does is it approaches the issue of solar geoengineering from a risk of intervention vs. risk of no action framework. The 44-page document was required by Congress in a policy report accompanying the 2022 appropriations bill. It juggles several ways to limit the amount of sunlight reaching Earth, such asThe research document states:The report acknowledges that "there are no plans underway to establish a comprehensive research program focused on solar radiation modification."However, the moment the report was made public, it unleashed blowback on the Internet. The idea, albeit simply outlined as a research paper, was branded as "lunacy." Some users worried that it would eventually amount to an attempt to "legalize climate weapons," while others were concerned about the "ramifications of this on humans, plant life, and food supply."Others wondered how solar panels and solar farms would be expected to work. Some on the Internet were sure it was all part of a conspiracy to depopulate the planet.People on social media joked that maybe "we should ask T.Rex about this, because this is basically what wiped out the dinosaurs." Incidentally, the audacious plan to tinker with the Sun's rays was earlier embraced by Bill Gates. The investor, philanthropist, and co-founder of software giant Microsoft, along with some private donors, backed a Harvard University Solar Geoengineering Research Program in 2021. It looked into methods such as seeding the stratosphere with aerosols  gaseous clouds formed by particles of many common materials  to reflect sunlight away.However, in an open letter, scholars, initiators of the Solar Geoengineering Non-Use Agreement, argued for preventing the use of such technologies, as they could not be effectively governed, and would pose an unacceptable risk if ever implemented as part of future climate policy.The Biden administration currently has no plans underway to launch a comprehensive research program into solar radiation modification, according to a senior administration official cited by US media reports.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20210402/sweden-aborts-bill-gates-funded-experiment-aiming-to-blot-out-the-sun-to-fight-climate-change-1082516889.html

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Svetlana Ekimenko

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Svetlana Ekimenko

us president joe biden, study, blocking the suns rays, slow global warming, report required by congress, solar radiation modification, srm, solar geoengineering
https://sputnikglobe.com/20230702/investigation-underway-in-odessa-over-55mln-spending-on-defective-bomb-shelters---source-1111624179.html

Investigation Underway in Odessa Over $5.5Mln Spending on Defective Bomb Shelters - Source

Investigation Underway in Odessa Over $5.5Mln Spending on Defective Bomb Shelters - Source

The Ukrainian Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office has launched an investigation after 90% of bomb shelters in the Odessa Region's Prymorsk district were recognized dysfunctional or defective after repairs under a 200 million hryvnias ($5.5 million) funding, a Russian security official told Sputnik on Sunday, citing sources in the Odessa military administration.

2023-07-02T13:37+0000

2023-07-02T13:37+0000

2023-07-02T13:37+0000

world

odessa

ukraine

bomb shelter

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"Amid Russian forces targeting more critical infrastructure, authorities in the Odessa Region, together with the [Ukrainian] interior ministry, have carried out an inspection of civil protection facilities, which found that only 10% of 245 facilities are fit for their intended use, 20% are temporarily fit for use with limitations, 35% are fit for use with limitations, and 35% are unusable. All while more than 200 million hryvnias was allocated in 2022 for repairing and equipping the shelters and replenishing their food and drinking water supplies," the official said. Sources in the Odessa Region's military administration told the Russian security officials that 37 shelters had no front doors, 82 had no working lights, 134 had no air ventilation and 142 had no food, water and medical supplies. "A special commission ... concluded after the inspection that 61 out of 245 shelters in Odessa's Primorsk must be written off and the rest must be repaired," the official added. Ukraine's State Bureau of Investigation, together with the specialized anti-corruption prosecutor's office of Ukraine, have launched inquiries into the officials responsible for shelter repairs in Odessa, while local authorities were given until July 1 to eliminate the deficiencies, sources told the Russian security services.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20230208/corrupt-draft-evasion-scheme-uncovered-in-ukraine-source-says-1107075050.html

odessa

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20230702/iran-suspends-appointing-new-sweden-envoy-over-quran-burning-in-nordic-country-1111618851.html

Iran Suspends Appointing New Sweden Envoy Over Quran Burning in Nordic Country

Iran Suspends Appointing New Sweden Envoy Over Quran Burning in Nordic Country

Tehran will temporarily refrain from sending a new ambassador to Sweden in protest over the burning of the Quran in Stockholm earlier this week.

2023-07-02T12:53+0000

2023-07-02T12:53+0000

2023-07-02T13:20+0000

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Tehran will temporarily refrain from sending a new ambassador to Sweden in protest over the burning of the Quran in Stockholm earlier this week. This was announced by Irans foreign minister, Hossein Amir-Abdollahian, on Sunday. The foreign minister acknowledged on Twitter that the new ambassador was ready to be sent to his new role, but failed to clarify for how long the procedure might be put on pause.On June 28, the first day of the Muslim holiday of Eid al-Adha, a protest in which a Quran was burned took place outside Stockholm's main mosque. The demonstration was approved by the Swedish authorities. Sweden's Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson said the police decision was "legal but inappropriate."Muslim countries such as Egypt, Iran, Iraq, and Saudi Arabia have all strongly condemned the latest Quran burning in Sweden. Majid Nili Ahmadabadi, the head of the Iranian Foreign Ministry's Western Europe Department, summoned the charge d'affaires of the Swedish Embassy in Tehran, deploring the "silence and passive behavior of the Swedish government as encouraging the violators of one of the fundamental and obvious principles of human rights, i.e. the principle of respect for religious and mountainous values," as per the ministry's Telegram statement.This is not the first protest in Sweden involving a Quran burning, with such demonstrations having escalated tensions between Stockholm and Ankara, whose backing Stockholm needs to become a NATO member.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20230630/irans-foreign-ministry-says-summoned-swedens-charge-daffaires-over-quran-burning-1111563765.html

https://sputnikglobe.com/20230629/arab-islamic-world-will-not-leave-such-crimes-unanswered--syrias-grand-mufti-on-quran-burning-1111545674.html

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20230702/israeli-think-tank-finds-huge-iranian-missile-base-in-hidden-mountain-fortress-1111629663.html

Israeli Think Tank 'Finds' Huge Iranian Missile Base in Hidden Mountain Fortress

Israeli Think Tank 'Finds' Huge Iranian Missile Base in Hidden Mountain Fortress

The Islamic Republic and the Jewish State became mortal enemies overnight following the Iranian Revolution of 1979, with Tehran severing all ties with Tel... 02.07.2023, Sputnik International

2023-07-02T18:46+0000

2023-07-02T18:46+0000

2023-07-02T18:46+0000

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The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps has built a massive underground missile base in a mountain fortress outside the western Iranian city of Kermanshah, an Israeli security think tank analysis based on satellite intelligence has claimed.According to the IDF staff officer-run Alma Research and Education Center, Iran has three large underground facilities in the area, including a mountain base in Konesht Canyon, which has least 61 missile bunkers hidden from satellite snooping dug into it.80 more missile bunkers are reportedly situated at the nearby Panj Pelleh site, with 2K12 Kub SAMs and Zu-23 anti-aircraft guns protecting the area from aerial attack.The missiles hosted by the base are said to include the Fateh-110, a solid fuel missile with a 500 kg warhead and an operational range of 300 km. Qiam-1 ballistic missiles, which have 750 kg warheads and a range up to 800 km, are also on site.Alma alleges that the Kermanshah base was used during the January 2020 Revolutionary Guard missile attack on a pair of US bases in Iraq following the murder of IRGC Quds Force commander Qassem Soleimani, which left over 100 US soldiers with traumatic brain injuries.Iran has a broad range of ballistic and cruise missiles in its arsenal, and recently unveiled a new hypersonic missile known as the Fattah.The Islamic Republic considers its arsenal of missiles as its main shield against enemy aggression, and has warned that it will not hesitate to use them against Israeli military and nuclear sites and US bases and carrier groups in the Persian Gulf if Tel Aviv or Washington attempts to carry out strikes against Tehrans nuclear sites.Tel Aviv has spent more than a decade accusing Iran of pursuing nukes. Tehran has denied that claim, saying nuclear weapons and all other weapons of mass destruction are not compatible with the Islamic faith, and pointing to Israels own suspected stock of nukes. Tel Aviv neither confirms nor denies possessing such weapons.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20161206/iran-must-fulfill-nuclear-deal-pledges-1048206163.html

https://sputnikglobe.com/20230523/israel-boasts-of-ability-to-hit-iran-as-nuclear-tensions-seethe-1110543950.html

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20230702/leader-of-french-communist-party-calls-to-restrict-access-to-social-networks-due-to-unrest-1111609022.html

Leader of French Communist Party Calls to Restrict Access to Social Networks Amid Unrest

Leader of French Communist Party Calls to Restrict Access to Social Networks Amid Unrest

Roussel said on Saturday that access to social media should be restricted during political protests in France which were sparked by the fatal shooting of a teenager during a traffic stop.

2023-07-02T00:20+0000

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"We will need to study the role of social networks. At some point... they will have to be cut off when the situation in the country gets too tense. I prefer a state of emergency in social networks than [among] the population," Roussel told France Info. Earlier in the day, French Justice Minister Eric Dupond-Moretti said that French prosecutors should ask internet operators for the IP addresses of young people calling for riots on the Snapchat app. On Tuesday, Nahel M. was shot dead in Nanterre after he had refused to comply with police orders during a traffic stop. The officer who pulled the trigger on the teenager has been charged with voluntary manslaughter and is in custody. The fatal police shooting sparked riots across the country. Violent protests have continued throughout the week, with injuries and detentions reported every day. French media said on Saturday, citing the interior ministry, that 1,311 were detained over the past night, including 406 in greater Paris. In addition, 1,350 cars and 234 buildings were set on fire, according to reports.

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20230702/mass-riots-in-france-have-reportedly-spread-to-two-more-european-countries-1111616705.html

Mass Riots in France Spread to Two More European Countries

Mass Riots in France Spread to Two More European Countries

Mass riots, which began in France on June 27, spread to two other European countries - Switzerland and Belgium, according to local media reports, citing eyewitnesses.

2023-07-02T10:26+0000

2023-07-02T10:26+0000

2023-07-02T10:28+0000

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Mass riots that began in France on 27 June have spread to two other European countries - Switzerland and Belgium - local media reports said, citing eyewitnesses.In Brussels, Belgium, the protests began on 30 June and were relatively peaceful - police checked and detained people whom they considered suspicious. Belgians took to the capital's streets after calls on social networks to "do as in France". According to media reports, the number of demonstrators arrested in Brussels has risen to 63.Later, rallies also took place in Lausanne, Switzerland, where they were less peaceful. Swiss police have detained seven people, including six minors, during nightly riots in the city after more than 100 rioters attacked shops and police officers, the media reported on Sunday, citing police. The protesters threw stones and at least one Molotov cocktail at the law enforcement officers. Nobody was injured.The six detainees, who are between the ages of 15 and 17, are of Portuguese, Bosnian, Somalian, Georgian and Serbian origin, a local newspaper reported. The only adult among the apprehended is a 24-year-old Swiss citizen, the report added.On 27 June, 17-year-old Nahel M was shot dead in Nanterre after he refused to comply with police orders during a traffic stop. The officer who pulled the trigger on the teenager has been charged with voluntary manslaughter and is now in custody. The fatal police shooting has sparked riots across the country.Violent protests have continued throughout the week, with injuries and detentions reported every day. More than 700 people have been detained in France overnight and more than 40 police officers and gendarmes were injured during the continuing unrest in the country, the French Interior Ministry said on Sunday. In addition, 1,350 cars and 234 buildings were set on fire, according to reports.French Justice Minister Eric Dupond-Moretti said that about 30 percent of the 2,400 rioters detained by the police were minors.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20230702/frances-fifth-night-of-violence-as-teen-shot-by-police-buried-1111611549.html

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20230702/paris-police-prevent-protesters-from-gathering-at-arc-de-triomphe-1111609403.html

Paris Police Prevent Protesters From Gathering at Arc de Triomphe

Paris Police Prevent Protesters From Gathering at Arc de Triomphe

About 3,000 people gathered at Arc de Triomphe to protest. The police pushed the protesters towards the Champs Elysees. No arrests were made. The death of a teenager at the hands of an officer has sparked protests in France.

2023-07-02T03:36+0000

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About 3,000 people gathered at Arc de Triomphe late on Saturday night, after calls on social media to hold a protest there. The police did not allow crowds to gather and pushed people towards the Champs Elysees. Some young people were stopped and searched, but no arrests were made, a Sputnik correspondent reported. French Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin said on Saturday that around 45,000 police officers were going to be deployed overnight to ensure security in the regions where civil unrest is taking place. According to French media reports, over 450 people were detained across France on the night from Saturday to Sunday, including over 300 people in Paris alone.Dozens of people gathered in the Paris suburb of Nanterre on Saturday to attend the funeral of a 17-year-old teenager whose death at the hands of a police officer provoked mass unrest in France. Darmanin told media on Friday that more than 45,000 law enforcement officers, including special units, were involved in the fight against riots in France, while over 300 police officers and gendarmes were wounded in the first three days of unrest in the country. France Info reported citing a government source on Saturday that French Prime Minister Elisabeth Borne had urged all cabinet ministers to return to Paris and stay there amid ongoing unrest in the country. Nahel M. was shot dead in the Paris suburb of Nanterre on Tuesday morning after he refused to comply with police orders during a traffic stop. The officer who pulled the trigger on the teenager has been charged with voluntary manslaughter and is in custody. The fatal police shooting sparked riots across the country. Violent protesters have clashed with police and set fire to public buildings and vehicles. Hundreds of protesters have been detained.

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With everyone being fascinated by the capabilities of AI and what it can offer, it's easy to overlook the potential risks and threats it may bring to humanity. However, tech experts like Geoffrey Hinton remain vigilant over the negative effects that artificial intelligence may bring.

Bad AI vs Good AI

As reported before, Geoffrey Hinton, also referred to as the "Godfather of AI" has quit Google amidst the fast-paced growth of AI. He did so to be able to criticize the technology and inform people of the potential disasters it may lead to.

In a Collision conference in Toronto, Hinton further explained his concerns about how the good variant of AI might not be able to keep bad AI in check. He pointed out that AI technology is only as good as the people who developed them, as mentioned in Engadget.

For instance, the military industry might end up creating battle robots, as they would prefer machines as casualties over human beings. He also warned that the ruling class might just exploit the technology to add to their wealth, which would make the "rich richer and the poor poorer."

An idea that is far-fetched, where AI would start governing over humans has been brought up by the AI pioneer, saying that if AI becomes smarter than humans, people might not remain in charge. He added that we'd be in trouble if AI thinks that taking control was a necessary move.

With humanity's record of pulling out innovations only when it's on the brink of disaster, Hinton is concerned that society would only shut down potentially risky innovations once they get the chance to see how bad they can get, which might be too late by then.

Even now, AI is already showing signs of worry, such as bias and discrimination. As for AIs taking over human roles, the University of Toronto professor believes that society will have to make broad changes to adapt to AI technology.

Despite all the skepticism, Hinton did express that the advancement of AI could still be a good thing, such as using it to fight climate change. He said that even with the risks, he still loves AI technology.

Read Also: Game Developer Accused of Firing Artists and Replacing Them with AI

It's Not All Bad

There's a reason why people love artificial intelligence. It can do a lot of things that can make our lives easier in so many aspects. If applied correctly, AI can be widely used for the better, and there is already proof of that

For example, AI can be used to detect environmental problems we could be facing through climate modeling, pollution tracking, wildlife conservation, and natural disaster prediction, as mentioned in Forbes.

AI has also been used by game developers wherein NPC can participate in an actual conversation with the players. Even before its fame, AI has been used by online retailers to curate recommendations based on your shopping history.

AI is not bad nor good, just like how a computer cannot be good or evil. As Hinton said, it depends on the people developing AI technology. With tech experts keeping watch, disastrous outcomes can be avoided.

Related: Poll Shows 61% of Americans Are Worried About AI
https://sputnikglobe.com/20230702/pence-urges-biden-to-cease-pursuit-of-nuclear-deal-with-iran-as-ill-founded--dangerous-1111617796.html

Pence Urges Biden to 'Cease' Pursuit of Nuclear Deal With Iran as 'Ill-Founded & Dangerous'

Pence Urges Biden to 'Cease' Pursuit of Nuclear Deal With Iran as 'Ill-Founded & Dangerous'

Former Vice President Mike Pence urged Biden administration to cease and desist negotiations with Tehran over reviving the Iran Nuclear Deal.

2023-07-02T11:08+0000

2023-07-02T11:08+0000

2023-07-02T11:08+0000

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Former Vice President Mike Pence, a hopeful in the 2024 race for the White House, has urged the administration of US President Joe Biden to immediately "cease and desist" negotiations with Tehran over reviving the Iran nuclear deal.Pence slammed the pursuit of a nuclear agreement with Tehran as "ill-founded and dangerous." At the same time, he touted the "achievements" of the Trump-Pence administration, which included tough sanctions on the Islamic Revolutionary Guard, scrapping the 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) nuclear deal, and ordering the attack that assassinated Iranian Quds Force commander Gen. Qasem Soleimani. The crowd of supporters of the dissident Iranian group the People's Mojahedin Organization of Iran, also known as Mojahedin-e-Khalq, or MEK - outlawed in Iran - chanted, "Thank you" in response. Speaking at the summit in Paris, Mike Pence claimed that the Iranian regime has never been weaker than it is today in the wake of the protest movement that erupted in September 2022. The protests erupted after the death of 22-year-old Mahsa Amini, who was arrested by Irans morality police for allegedly wearing her headscarf improperly. The Kurdish woman fell into a coma while in police custody and died a few days later. Demonstrators and social media users spread unconfirmed reports that Amini had been beaten to death by Iranian law enforcement. The US government-funded Voice of America Persia and Radio Farda fanned the flames of the unrest, and the Biden administration openly hailed the riots.Trumps former Secretary of State Mike Pompeo also addressed the rally on Saturday, via videolink, saying that any new nuclear deal with Tehran would be a calamity for the Iranian people and the world.Mike Pence's vehement lambasting came amid recent reports, citing anonymous sources among Western and Iranian officials, that the US and Iran have been "quietly" rekindling talks on Tehrans nuclear program.After Joe Biden assumed office in January 2021, his administration signaled its commitment to restoring the deal. Talks on reviving the deal kicked off in April 2021 between Iran and the P4+1, including China, Russia, France, the UK, and Germany, in Vienna. The US participated in the negotiations indirectly.However, after rounds of indirect talks, the effort to revive the JCPOA stalled, with the US refusal to lift sanctions against the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) turning out to be one of the central stumbling blocks. Rumors started to circulate recently of an "interim" deal between the US and Iran. As many in the US Congress would oppose any major concessions to Tehran, Washington was ostensibly hoping to restore some limits on Irans nuclear program in return for benefits that would not require Congressional review. "I'd call it a cooling-down understanding," one Western official was cited as saying.State Department spokesman Matt Miller dismissed the reports, but said that Washington would, "continue to use diplomatic engagements" to pursue its "goals." The US media reported that the latter included de-escalation of tensions, curbing Tehran's nuclear program, expanding cooperation with international nuclear inspectors, and a "halt" on attacks on American contractors illegally operating in Syria, as well as in Iraq, by Iran's allied militias, and the release of detained US citizens.Amid the reports, House Foreign Affairs Committee Chairman Michael McCaul sent a letter to President Joe Biden, citing concern over revelations that the administration is pursuing a new nuclear deal with Iran, calling into question the administrations intent to adhere to its legal obligations under the Iran Nuclear Agreement Review Act of 2015.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20230616/us-iran-quietly-seek-to-cool-tensions-with-understanding-on-tehrans-nuke-program---report-1111203849.html

https://sputnikglobe.com/20221019/why-are-the-us-and-eu-upending-the-iran-nuclear-deal-1102076571.html

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20230702/rocket-launched-from-syria-toward-israel---idf-1111609272.html

Syria Repels Israeli Missile Attack as IDF Reports Rocket Launch Toward Israel

Syria Repels Israeli Missile Attack as IDF Reports Rocket Launch Toward Israel

An anti-aircraft rocket was launched from Syrian territory toward Israel, the IDF said. The Syrian SANA state news agency reported late on Saturday night that Syrian air defense systems were repelling an attack in Homs.

2023-07-02T01:51+0000

2023-07-02T01:51+0000

2023-07-02T11:49+0000

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Syrian state media reported shortly after midnight on Sunday that Arab Republic's air defense systems had repelled an attack in the Homs Governorate in central Syria.Syrian air defenses responded, intercepting Israeli missiles and shooting them down most of them. Some material damage was caused in the raid, but no injuries were reported.Separately, the Israeli military indicated that an anti-aircraft rocket had been launched from Syria toward Israel Saturday. "The rocket appears to have exploded in the air over Israeli territory," the IDF said on Twitter. The military added that no special instructions were issued for Israeli civilians, and no injuries or casualties were reported. The IDF confirmed that Israeli aircraft had targeted a Syrian air defense battery from which the errant missile was reportedly launched.A Sputnik correspondent reported that a loud bang was heard in Tel Aviv and its suburbs before the IDF issued its statement.Israel has launched thousands of air raids against Syria over the past decade as the security situation in the Arab Republic deteriorated thanks to a US, Turkish and Gulf sheikdom-backed dirty war. Damascus has blasted Tel Aviv, with whom it has no formal diplomatic relations, for its aggression. Israel has often claimed that it's targeting Iranian or "Iranian-backed" militias operating on Syrian territory. Syria has indicated that Iranian advisors and Lebanese Hezbollah militias are operating in the country at the invitation of its government, and helping to battle foreign-backed jihadist militants.Israeli air attacks are often launched over Lebanese airspace, with the IDF using the area in the knowledge that Syrian air defense forces may hesitate to target Israeli aircraft over its neighbor's airspace, given the risk hitting civilian aircraft or having missile debris land in Lebanese territory.

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20230702/russian-forces-destroy-starlink-communication-station-near-artemovsk---mod-1111609695.html

Russian Forces Destroy Starlink Communication Station Near Artemovsk

Russian Forces Destroy Starlink Communication Station Near Artemovsk

Russian forces have destroyed a Ukrainian Starlink satellite communication station and a drone control center near Artemovsk (Bakhmut), a Russian Defense Ministry spokesperson told Sputnik.

2023-07-02T03:39+0000

2023-07-02T03:39+0000

2023-07-02T04:27+0000

russia's special operation in ukraine

russia

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donetsk

defense ministry

starlink

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"... the artillery of the group [of Russian forces] destroyed a Starlink communication station, a control center for unmanned aerial vehicles together with a Leleka-100 drone, a communication center and a pickup truck with an infantry group," the spokesperson said. In addition, Russian forces have repelled an attack by a Ukrainian assault group near the village of Berkhovka in the Artemovsk area. Russia launched its special military operation in Ukraine on February 24, 2022, after the Donetsk and Lugansk peoples republics appealed for help in defending themselves against Ukrainian provocations. In response to Russias operation, Western countries have rolled out a comprehensive sanctions campaign against Moscow and have been supplying weapons to Ukraine. On September 30, 2022, Russian President Vladimir Putin and the heads of the Donetsk and Lugansk people's republics, as well as Kherson and Zaporozhye regions, signed agreements on the accession of these territories to Russia, following referendums that showed that an overwhelming majority of the local population supported becoming part of Russia. Ukraine launched its long-advertised counteroffensive in early June after multiple postponements. According to the Russian Defense Ministry, Ukrainian troops continue to try but are failing to advance along three directions: South Donetsk, Artemovsk and Zaporozhye, the latter being of primary focus.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20230701/what-types-of-tanks-does-ukraine-have-and-how-many-are-left-1111604127.html

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20230702/sweden-steps-up-border-controls-including-due-to-quran-burning-incident---foreign-ministry-1111630493.html

Sweden Steps Up Border Controls Due to Quran Burning Incident

Sweden Steps Up Border Controls Due to Quran Burning Incident

On Wednesday, a protest in which a Quran was burned took place outside Stockholm's main mosque. The Swedish police authorized the demonstration. The action was condemned by several countries and other parties.

2023-07-02T20:33+0000

2023-07-02T20:33+0000

2023-07-03T04:15+0000

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"In May this year, the Government decided to reintroduce border controls. We were clear about the reasons for this: it was primarily due to the elevated threat to Sweden, linked to events such as previous demonstrations at which Qurans were burned The Swedish Police Authority has confirmed that it is now making necessary adjustments to the controls, and increasing its interactions with other relevant authorities to address the threat," the ministry said in a statement, adding that the Swedish Security Service has also taken measures to ensure the countrys security. The statement added that freedom of speech in Sweden is protected by law, but the country's government does not support "every opinion." On Wednesday, the first day of the Muslim holiday Eid al-Adha, a protest in which a Quran was burned took place outside Stockholm's main mosque. The Swedish police authorized the demonstration. Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson said the authorization was "lawful but inappropriate." The action was condemned by Algeria, Afghanistan, Egypt, Indonesia, Lebanon, Russia, Syria, Turkiye, Uzbekistan, Arab League Secretary General Ahmed Aboul Gheit and Gulf Cooperation Council chief Jasem Mohamed Albudaiwi. Foreign ministries of Jordan and the United Arab Emirates summoned Sweden's ambassadors to hand them notes of protest. A similar demonstration took place in Sweden in January, when Danish far-right politician Rasmus Paludan burnt the Muslim holy book in front of the Turkish embassy. In response, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said that Stockholm should not count on Ankara's support for its NATO membership bid.

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20230702/thousands-protest-against-judicial-reform-in-israel-after-failed-government-talks-1111609137.html

Thousands Protest Against Judicial Reform in Israel After Failed Government Talks

Thousands Protest Against Judicial Reform in Israel After Failed Government Talks

The organizers of the Saturday demonstrations announced protests at 150 locations across Israel. Netanyahu told a news outlet on Thursday that the government would drop the most controversial part of the judicial reform.

2023-07-02T00:38+0000

2023-07-02T00:38+0000

2023-07-02T00:38+0000

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The organizers of the Saturday demonstrations announced protests at 150 different locations across Israel. In Tel Aviv alone, about 130,000 people gathered on Saturday, according to Crowd Solutions estimates. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu told The Wall Street Journal on Thursday that the government would drop the most controversial part of the judicial reform designed to enable the parliament (Knesset) to override the rulings of the Supreme Court. At the same time, the Israeli prime minister said that the government and the opposition had been unable to agree on basic provisions of the reform for months, which would possibly prompt the government to advance the legislation unilaterally. The draft law is intended to shake up the judiciary in Israel. If adopted, it could curtail the Supreme Court's power to review and strike down laws that it rules unconstitutional and give the government a greater say in the selection of judges. In late March, the Israeli prime minister announced the suspension of the legislative process on judicial reform in order to negotiate and reach a compromise with its opponents. The decision came against the backdrop of major nationwide protests against the reform. Despite the suspension, demonstrators continue to take to the streets, fearing that the reform will undermine democracy in Israel and bring the country to the brink of a social and constitutional crisis.

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20230702/ukraine-finds-wwii-era-brit-fighters-in-aircraft-graveyard-near-kiev-1111620585.html

Ukraine Finds WWII-Era Brit Fighters in Aircraft Graveyard Near Kiev

Ukraine Finds WWII-Era Brit Fighters in Aircraft Graveyard Near Kiev

Nearly 3,000 British and Canadian-built Hawker Hurricanes were sent to the USSR in 1941-1944 to help Moscow fight the Nazis. Today, the UK is providing another sort of "aid", fueling a NATO proxy war against Russia in Ukraine.

2023-07-02T11:52+0000

2023-07-02T11:52+0000

2023-07-02T13:17+0000

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The remnants of eight British Hawker Hurricane fighter planes delivered to the USSR during the Second World War as Lend-Lease support have been discovered in a forest outside Kiev, UK media have reported.The aircraft, paid for by the US and built in Britain, were reportedly found in a search using metal detectors after an unexploded World War II-era bomb was discovered nearby.Moscow eagerly accepted Britains offer to provide Hurricane fighters to help the USSR slow down the initial Nazi assault in the summer of 1941, with the planes earlier credited with helping London survive the Luftwaffes massed air raids on southern England during the 1940 Battle of Britain.The first Hurricanes sent to the Soviet Union were flown by British pilots directly to Murmansk, with subsequent parties delivered and assembled in Arkhangelsk by British specialists, who helped train Soviet pilots and even took part in joint patrols providing cover for convoys delivering wartime aid.But Lend-Lease aid wasnt free, with the USSR sending billions of dollars in gold, precious metals, wood, and other resources to the US and the UK during the war, and Russia paying off the remainder of the balance owing only in 2006. Most Soviet Army Air Force Hurricanes which survived World War II were deliberately broken up to avoid paying hefty fees to the US. The eight Hurricanes found near Kiev had their radios, guns, and instruments removed and were broken up before being buried.Its estimated that as few as 16 restored Hurricanes are left in airworthy condition in the world today. Two Hurricanes are on display in Russia  one at a war memorial outside Murmansk, and a second at an aircraft museum near Moscow.Mixing Sacred War With Modern DisasterNational Aviation Museum of Ukraine lead researcher Valerii Romanenko couldnt help but attempt to mix the discovery of the WWII-vintage planes with contemporary politics, calling the Hurricanes "a symbol of British assistance during the years of the Second World War, just as we are very appreciative of British assistance nowadays.""In 1941, Britain was the first who supplied fighter aircraft to the Soviet Union in mass scale. Now the UK is the first country which gives Storm Shadow cruise missiles to our armed forces," he added.The United Kingdom is second only behind the United States in terms of military assistance provided to Kiev in the West's ongoing proxy war against Russia, sending over 5.5 billion pounds sterling ($7 billion US) in weapons over the past year. London also proved instrumental in frustrating peace talks between Moscow and Kiev, with now ex-Prime Minister Boris Johnson traveling to Ukraine in the spring of 2022 to foil an imminent peace deal.

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20230702/ukraine-preparing-for-second-stage-of-counteroffensive-in-zaporozhye-region---official-1111610962.html

Ukraine Preparing for Second Stage of Counteroffensive in Zaporozhye Region - Official

Ukraine Preparing for Second Stage of Counteroffensive in Zaporozhye Region - Official

Ukrainian troops are preparing to attempt the second stage of a large-scale counter-offensive in the Zaporozhye region in the coming days, Vladimir Rogov, a senior official of the Zaporozhye regional administration, told Sputnik.

2023-07-02T04:49+0000

2023-07-02T04:49+0000

2023-07-02T04:49+0000

russia's special operation in ukraine

sergei rogov

ukraine

donetsk

zaporozhye

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Ukrainian troops are preparing to attempt the second stage of a large-scale counter-offensive in the Zaporozhye region in the coming days, Vladimir Rogov, a senior official of the Zaporozhye regional administration, told Sputnik. He added that Ukrainian forces could concentrate the main blow for a breakthrough at any location of the front line. "Over the past four weeks, they have conducted the maximum number of attempts at reconnaissance in combat, offensive options, breakthroughs, studying our reaction and interaction of units, plus regular shelling of our rear in order to hit infrastructure facilities - bridges, transport hubs, units, depots with equipment and ammunition, airfields," Rogov told Sputnik. Russia launched its special military operation in Ukraine in February 2022, after the Donetsk and Lugansk peoples republics appealed for help in defending themselves against Ukrainian provocations. In response to Russias operation, Western countries have rolled out a comprehensive sanctions campaign against Moscow and have been supplying weapons to Ukraine. On September 30, 2022, Russian President Vladimir Putin and the heads of the Donetsk and Lugansk people's republics, as well as Kherson and Zaporozhye regions, signed agreements on the accession of these territories to Russia, following referendums that showed that an overwhelming majority of the local population supported becoming part of Russia.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20230630/us-top-general-says-not-surprised-ukrainian-counteroffensive-going-slower-than-predicted-1111586959.html

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20230702/watch-russian-lancet-kamikaze-drone-destroy-ukrainian-tank-and-electronic-warfare-station-1111619203.html

Watch Russian Lancet Kamikaze Drone Destroy Ukrainian Tank and Electronic Warfare Station

Watch Russian Lancet Kamikaze Drone Destroy Ukrainian Tank and Electronic Warfare Station

The Russian Defense Ministry has released video footage of a Lancet kamikaze drone destroying a Ukrainian tank and an electronic warfare station in the Kherson direction.

2023-07-02T11:09+0000

2023-07-02T11:09+0000

2023-07-02T11:09+0000

russia's special operation in ukraine

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video

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The Russian Defense Ministry has released video footage of a Lancet kamikaze drone destroying a Ukrainian tank and an electronic warfare station in the Kherson direction.Ukraine launched its much-touted counteroffensive in early June after several delays. The Russian Defense Ministry has acknowledged that Ukrainian troops are trying to advance in the South Donetsk, Artemovsk (Bakhmut), and Zaporozhye directions, but without success.

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Russian Airborne Forces reconnaissance group destroys Ukrainian tank and electronic warfare station in Kherson direction using Lancet drone Russian Airborne Forces reconnaissance group destroys Ukrainian tank and electronic warfare station in Kherson direction using Lancet drone 2023-07-02T11:09+0000 true PT0M55S

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Ken Middleton, the long-time voice of Woodbine Standardbred racing, has been hospitalized following a serious training accident.

Middleton, who trains his own stable in addition to the announcing role, was injured on Thursday morning, suffering cracks and breaks to multiple vertebrae. Middleton is currently at Hamilton General Hospital and is set to undergo surgery for the injuries this weekend.

Please join Standardbred Canada in wishing Middleton a full and speedy recovery.

(Woodbine)
Two-year-olds were in the spotlight during Eldorado Scioto Downs's Saturday night stakes action competing in $150,000 divisions of the Next Generation while the Ohio Sires Stakes featured three-year-old pacing colts in a pair of $55,000 races.

Magestic Seas kicked off the Next Generation, winning the two-year-old filly pace in 1:53.2.

The morning line favourite, who went off at 2-1, was expertly driven by Ronnie Wrenn Jr. for trainer Brian Brown. They took their time to get to the lead during the :27.4 opening quarter then Wrenn backed the tempo down to the :57 half. The field started sprinting down the backside with Venice Blue Chip (Anthony MacDonald) going first-up and flushing Daisys Star (Tyler Smith) from the three-hole. By the time they hit the three-quarters in 1:24.4, the field was stacked four in, four out. In a tight finish, Magestic Seas held on to win by a neck over Seaside Diva (Chris Page), who fanned four-wide off the last turn. After going first-up, Daisys Star finished third with Venice Blue Chip fourth.

The drivers have done a good job not overdriving these babies in these races, said Brown. I didnt want her to do too much, so the third quarter in :27.4, I figured we would have to pace a big last quarter to fend them off and she didnt have to, and Ronnie didnt push her, so I think there was more left.

I want to thank a couple people: Brevin Lupton her groom, Danny Jones her trainer and Preferred Equine for helping sponsor this race.

The Downbytheseaside filly, bred by Andray Farm and Sergent Stables, sold at the Lexington Selected Yearling Sale for $110,000. Magestic Seas, the fifth foal out of the mare Magestic Blue Chip by Rocknroll Hanover, is a half sister to $877,544 winner Hellabalou (by Sweet Lou). She is owned by County Club Acres, Kirk Nichols and Scott Dillon.

The winner paid $6.60 to win.

Freshman sire Volstead produced the top two finishers in the Next Generation for two-year-old filly trotters, led by Jurassic Hattie, who was a gate-to-wire winner in 1:56.2 with Brett Miller in the bike.

Going straight to the lead from the four-hole, Miller settled Jurassic Hattie on top to the :28.1 opening quarter. After a soft :31 second quarter, pocket-sitter Possibility (Aaron Merriman) sat in while Ronnie Gillespie pulled race favourite Sugar Instead at the 1:28.3 three-quarters. Jurassic Hattie finished the race under a hand drive to win by 3-3/4 lengths for trainer Eric Nesselroad. Sugar Instead was second with Possibility third.

He [Nesselroad] handed the lines to me and said race her, said Miller. She felt really good and she felt like she was a really good gaited trotter. When I got that :31 second quarter, I felt pretty comfortable.

Jerry Welch bred and owns the Volstead filly, who is the 10th foal out of the Striking Sahbra mare High Gear Sahbra.

Jurassic Hottie paid $8.60 to win.

Spaaaanzano took the Next Generation for two-year-old trotting colts with Aaron Merriman on board in 1:56.2, a new stakes record.

Spaaaanzano sprung off the gate from the seven-hole and made the early lead to the :28.3 opening quarter. Going to the :58.2 half, Merriman let the 9-5 favourite, Tennessee Tom (Chris Page), take the lead. After the 1:27.4 third quarter, Merriman pulled Spaaaanzano off the turn and duelled with Tennessee Tom, finishing a nose in front. Deville Hill (Dan Noble) came from the back of the pack to finish third.

Chris Beaver trains Spaaaanzano for co-owners Spaaaartners, Bill Manes and Leo Fleming.

This horse is really really professional, said Merriman. I actually would rather have the outside with a young trotter than the one or two-hole on a five-eighth-mile track, especially the first couple of starts.

I was high on my horse to be honest with you, hes done everything right so far and he showed it today."

The Corraggioso gelding, bred by Timothy Stutzman, is the third foal out of the SJs Caviar mare Grace N Charlie and a full brother to $189,094 earner Panzano, who was also trained by Beaver during his Ohio campaign.

The winner paid $6.40.

Midwind Beach Boy was the only winner of the $150,000 Next Generation for two-year-olds that came from off the pace when he won the pacing colt division in 1:52.4.

Clever Cody (Ronnie Wrenn Jr.) made the early lead but just at the :27 opening quarter Hundred Dollar Man (Montrell Teague) popped the pocket and took over going by the grandstand for the first time. The field went past the half-mile pole in :56.4 and about mid-way down the backside Nick Clegg pulled Janelle Granny to challenge the leaders. By the 1:25 third quarter, Janelle Granny pulled up alongside Hundred Dollar Man. Rolling up from the back was Midwind Beach Boy and Chris Page, going three-wide around the last turn. In another close finish, it was Midwind Beach Boy to win by a half-length for trainer Ron Burke. Janelle Granny was second with Hundred Dollar Man finishing third and Clever Cody fourth.

Act Fast [2022 winner for Page/Burke] and 'Midwind' are polar opposites, said Page. Act Fast is a big good-looking horse and Midwinds just a little small horse. He travels nicewe just gotta keep his head screwed on straight -- hes still racing in an ear hood, a little bit warm -- but hes got a high turn of speed.

Midwind Beach Boy is by Downbytheseaside and sold at the Lexington Selected Yearling Sale for $25,000. Bred by Midwind Farm, the colt is owned by Burke Racing, Knox Services, J&T Silva-Purnel & Libby and RAS Racing. He is the first living foal out of American Major by American Ideal.

Midwind Beach Boy paid $13 to win.

In Ohio Sire Stakes action, Seafire continued to shine as he picked up his second win in in the state-bred program with Ronnie Wrenn Jr. aboard.

In the evening's first division for sophomore colt pacers, For Once Inmy Life (Brett Miller), a two-time winner in OHSS action, raced to the lead covering the half-mile in fractions of :25.4 and :52.4. As the field headed up the backstretch, Rockmelikeyameanit (Dan Noble) challenged for the lead with Seafire close behind. The two blew by the leader at the three-quarter pole in 1:20.1. As two hit the top of the stretch, Wrenn took Seafire wide to grab the lead. The son of Downbytheseaside fought off a late challenge down the lane from Burnout (Sam Widger), holding on to win by a head in 1:49.1. Rockmelikeyameanit finished third.

Unraced as a two-year-old, Seaside has hit the board in all nine starts this year, winning five. The Brian Brown trainee has earned $91,720 for the ownership group of Country Club Acres, Jocelyn Ridder, Mark Kantrowitz and Scott Davis.

In the second division, The Real Way with Chris Page collected his first win in the Ohio Sires Stakes. Also a son of Downbytheseaside, The Real Way had finished sixth and fifth in two previous OSS efforts.

Ants Marching (Brett Miller) took the early lead with a :26 first quarter but gave way to Dunkin (Nick Clegg), who lead at the half in :55.1. As the field moved towards three-quarters, The Real Way took command racing to the lead in 1:22.1. He opened a three-length margin over Liteningonthebeach (Ronnie Wrenn Jr.) around the final turn. Heading for home, Liteningonthebeach made a move to close the gap but it was a little too late as The Real Way held on to win in a photo in 1:50.1. Dynamite Dylan (Aaron Merriman) finished third.

The win was the second in four starts for the Ron Burke trainee. Owned by Burke Racing Stable, Weaver Bruscemi, Knox Services and Let It Ride Stables, The Real Way raised his earnings this year to $41,788.

(With files from Scioto Downs and Ohio Harness Horsemen's Association; Photos clockwise from top left of Magestic Seas, Jurassic Hattie, Midwind Beach Boy and Spaaaanzano)
Odds-on choice Stockade Seelster held on the lead and 26-1 shot Midnight Nation fired from well off the speed to each clock a 1:49.3 mile and narrowly take their respective $100,400 opening-round divisions of the Ontario Sires Stakes (OSS) Gold at Woodbine Mohawk Park on Saturday night (July 1).

In the first division, driver Trevor Henry sat fifth with Midnight Nation, who was sent off as the longest shot on the board. He chased a :26.2 first quarter set by Verdun, who then relinquished control to 2-5 favourite Moment Is Here up the backstretch. Moment Is Here coasted to a :55 half and 1:23.1 as everyone but Midnight Nation pulled off the pylons circling for home. With clearance to the inside, Midnight Nation fired and slipped through the inside route to a nose victory with pocket-pounder Verdun left in third and Macs Delight in fourth.

They all moved out, eh? And when they move out, you move up, Henry said after the race. It just worked out, you know? Just got lucky. I knew it was close, I wasnt really sure [I won]. I was hoping  hes a nice horse. He raced great  [trainer] Richard [Moreau] said wed race for a cheque and we got more than that.

Shaun Vallee and D P V Racing Stable own Midnight Nation, a gelding by Betterthancheddar, bred in Ontario by Princeton Farms. The victory was the first OSS Gold win for a Princeton Farms bred horse.

Midnight Nation won his second race from eight starts and has now banked $91,705. He paid $54.50 to win.

The second OSS division also came to a nose decision, but the pacesetter Stockade Seelster held off the late push of No Control to win. Driver Jody Jamieson planted Stockade Seelster on the point and rolled uncontested through fractions of :26.4, :56 and 1:23 before engaging in a stretch sprint with No Control. No Control crept closer all through the lane, but came just shy of victory as Whatchulookin At fired home quickest of the six to snag third, beaten three-quarter lengths, with Santana Hanover fourth.

I thought he held on, Jamieson said after the race. It was really more my fault than anything  you cant slow these good horses down the way I did in the second quarter. I shouldve just let him roll. I had in my head how good No Control raced last week and I noticed him sitting on my back and wanted every advantage I could. I dont think going to the half in :56 flat was an advantage; it hurt him more than anything. This horse just dug in.

Stockade Seelster won for the 11th time from 16 starts and has now earned $1,082,870 for owners Sally and Paul MacDonald. Dr. Ian Moore trains the colt by State Treasurer and confirmed that last years Metro Pace winner is bound for New Jersey to race in the Meadowlands Pace eliminations.

To view Saturdays harness racing results, click the following link: Saturday Results  Woodbine Mohawk Park.
Tomas charged late to capture the $10,000 70th Anniversary Open Pace at Vernon Downs on Saturday (July 1).

Syracuse Express grabbed the lead and was first to the quarter in :26.2. He used a :29.2 second quarter to be first to the half in :55.4. Warrawee Unique was first to make a move and challenged for the lead going around the final turn. Syracuse Express was first to three-quarters in 1:23.2. Tomas made a three-wide move as they made the turn for home. Second-place finisher Syracuse Express gave everything he had, but Tomas blew on by to win in a lifetime best of 1:50.2. Chateroll finished third.

Tomas is a six-year-old gelding by Art Major. He is owned by White Yeti Racing and trained by driver Artie Dick. He is now three-for-three in 2023 and has eight victories in his career. He paid $5.30 to win.

Discus Hanover took the $7,500 Jim Moran Trot.

Life Well Lived was first to the quarter in :28. Discus Hanover took over control as they headed to the backstretch. He was first to the half in :58.3 and he breezed to three-quarters in 1:27.3. As they reached the stretch, second-place finisher Lepanto went all out after the lead, but Discus Hanover was too strong and won in 1:56.1. Poker Play was third.

Discus Hanover is a six-year-old gelding by Credit Winner. He is owned by Phillip Hale and trainer David Dewhurst. It was his fourth win this season and 36th victory overall. Roman Lopez drove the $3.20 winner.

Stewardoftheland won the $6,500 Political Friends of Vernon Downs Pace.

Major Leaguer laid down all the early fractions :26.4, :56.1 and 1:24.4. As they reached the stretch, Stewardoftheland came flying like a freight train and went on by to win in 1:52.4. Major Leaguer had to settle for second. Last Call Larry was third best.

Stewardoftheland is a four-year-old gelding by Huntsville. He is owned and trained by David Koslowsky. It was his fourth win this season and he now has eight victories in his career. Claude Huckabone Jr. drove the $7.90 winner.

Live harness racing continues at Vernon Downs on Friday, July 7 starting at 4 p.m. (EDT).

(Vernon Downs)
Harmful algae blooms have returned to Lake Anna for the sixth consecutive summer.

Just as in past summers, the algae blooms have resulted in a no-swim advisory for a section of the 13,000-acre Lake Anna, a popular recreational destination that also cools the Dominion Energy North Anna nuclear power plant.

The blooms were detected by monitors last week in the upper section of Pamunkey Branch of Lake Anna in Orange and Spotsylvania counties, the Virginia Department of Health announced Thursday.

The public is advised to avoid contact with this specific area of the lake until algae concentrations return to acceptable levels, the health department stated in a news release.

Harmful algae, called cyanobacteria, can appear when nitrogen and phosphorus pollution combine with warm water temperatures. The toxins can cause a skin rash, upset stomach, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. The algae can affect people and pets alike.

The health department said people should avoid swimming, windsurfing and stand-up-paddle-boarding, as well as other activities that pose a risk of ingesting water. Activities such as boating may continue with proper precaution in advisory areas.

According to the health department, the most recent tests showed that the Lake Anna State Park beach, as well as six other sites, had acceptable cyanobacteria densities and do not require a swimming advisory. Results from several of the sites detected toxins, but all were at acceptable levels.

The health department and the Virginia Harmful Algal Bloom Task Force monitor the lake and provide updates online.

Follow-up monitoring above Route 208 on the lake is scheduled for the third week of July.

Lake Anna has been plagued by harmful algae blooms the previous five summers, resulting in no-swim advisories for certain areas of the lake. Last year, the lake was added to the states list of impaired waterways because of the algae blooms.

After years of frustration with the algae blooms, money was raised to test a new hydrogen peroxide-based treatment. The Lake Anna Civic Association tested the treatments, which proved successful in some areas of the lake, including the Upper Pamunkey.

The association is raising funds to further treat the lake, according to the LACA website.
This Monday, I had another opportunity to hear directly from Nebraska producers about this years Farm Bill. The Farm Bill is a pivotal package of legislation covering everything from federal agricultural policies to food assistance programs. Its only passed once every five years.

The Farm Bill especially affects our state of Nebraska, where agriculture is our economic engine. Representative Smith led our visit on Monday, and I joined along with Senator Ricketts and Representatives Flood and Bacon. We have a great federal delegation, and I know we are all committed to delivering results for Nebraskans.

In the morning, we headed to Weber & Sons Company, a cattle feedyard in the Dorchester area. We toured the facilities and discussed the challenges such an extensive operation can face. We also met with members of the Nebraska Cattlemen, a group that gives voice to the cattle community. I met with the Cattlemen in Washington earlier this month, so it was wonderful to see them again at home in Nebraska. Both the Weber team and the Nebraska Cattlemen shared about the needs of cattle producers in our state, and I look forward to addressing their concerns in the upcoming Farm Bill.

We then drove to Doane University in Crete for a roundtable discussion with the Nebraska Farm Bureau and other groups. This was a tremendous opportunity to hear from the people who feed the worldfrom our pork producers to corn growers. Each group presented remarks about the concerns of its specific industry, providing me with valuable insight for my work on the Agriculture Committee. As I shared during the discussion, its critical that we preserve safety net programs like crop insurance that are essential to producers.

We next toured the University of Nebraska-Lincolns Agriculture campus, where we met with students and faculty about the research they are spearheading. They are working on cutting-edge technologies like robotic planters and new pesticide sprayers that can reduce input costs. Nebraska is becoming a world leader in precision agriculture thanks to educational institutions like UNL, and its crucial that we support that work in the Farm Bill.

After visiting UNL, we met with Farm Credit Services of America. Farm Credit provides important financial services for farmers and agribusiness owners, including loans to help producers get off the ground. At Farm Credit, we heard a panel discussion on the state of farm economy and the financial stability of the farm sector. Nate Kauffman, Senior Vice President and Omaha Branch Executive at the Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City, shared some especially informative comments about agriculture financing.

We also visited Green Plains Energy, one of the top ethanol producers in the country. We discussed Green Plains many successes and how biofuels can help lower costs for families at the pump. I continue to lead the effort in the Senate to make year-round E15 a reality through my bill, the Consumer and Fuel Retailer Choice Act.

We finished off by meeting the Nebraska Pork Producers. The Pork Producers told me about their priorities for upcoming ag legislation, and I told them about my support for the Ending Agricultural Trade Suppression (EATS) Act, which hits back at harmful ag regulations like Californias Proposition 12. Congress shouldnt allow any one state to single-handedly upend the countrys agricultural economy and force the American people to bear the burden of higher food prices.

I always say that the best part of my job is hearing from my fellow Nebraskans about what I can do to help them most. Each of these visits expanded my understanding of whats facing our ag producers in Nebraska, and I was grateful for the opportunities. My colleagues and I on the Agriculture Committee will continue to use these sessions to craft a Farm Bill that directly reflects the priorities of our farmers and ranchers.

Thank you for participating in the democratic process. I look forward to visiting with you again next week.
It was a successful afternoon for the Slaughter sisters of Willis as they joined several hundred riders from all over Southwest Virginia at the St. Jude Rodeo Extravaganza barrels event in Dublin on June 18.

Alison Slaughter, who was the 2022 National Barrel Horse Association Youth 3D Champion, rode her horse Hanna to third place in the Teen 3D event and fifth in Open 3D.

Marlee Slaughter on Hanna was the Reserve 2D Champion.

Jasie Marie Slaughter rode Cotton and was the Youth 3D Champion. A 16-year-old homeschooled high schooler, Alison has been riding most of her life.

I started riding when I got my first pony at my first Christmas in 2007, she said. I was 10 months old. My dad (Jason Slaughter), my mom (Alicia Slaughter), grandma and grandpa (Debbie and Tommy Slaughter) taught me the most in my early years of riding.

My favorite memory is when I bought my very first barrel horse at nine years old. She won me many buckles and trophies. She is still going strong at 30 years, teaching other little girls how to ride.

I think the best part of riding is the relationship you get with your horse. I also love working with babies, they are so much fun, willing to try anything and do anything you ask them.

A devout Christian, Alison likes to quote and live by scripture from Philippians 4:13: I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.

She said, I tend to look to that verse the most when Im struggling with my horses and life.

The Slaughter sisters make a unique trio of excellent riders and Alison enjoys the opportunity to ride with them and compete with them.

I love spending time with them and see them improve, Alison said.

Marlee is determined and loves to try new things. Jasie Marie and Cotton have improved so much the past two years.

They are a great team. Im very proud of Marlee and Jasie Marie, they are the best sisters a girl could ever ask for.
The Public Prosecutor's Office has taken legal action to address these publications, according to Syria TV.

Turkey has launched an investigation in response to publications promoting incitement against Syrian refugees, with the Turkish authorities drawing parallels to recent events in France.

The investigation, initiated by the Public Prosecutors Office in Istanbul, was prompted by the circulation of social media posts on platforms like Twitter and Facebook that incited violence and hatred towards refugees in Turkey. These posts also suggested the possibility of organizing protests similar to those witnessed in France.

The Public Prosecutors Office has taken legal action to address these publications and hold accountable those responsible for writing and promoting them, as they are seen as attempts to provoke unrest. The authorities have emphasized that the events unfolding in Paris and its surroundings could not be equated with the situation in Turkey. The catalyst for these publications was the killing of a 17-year-old Algerian immigrant by French police, which sparked widespread riots and chaos. Despite the passage of five days since the incident, acts of vandalism and riots continue to escalate across France.

Coinciding with these events, numerous social media users began making baseless claims that similar incidents could occur involving refugees in Turkey. Consequently, the Istanbul Prosecutors Office has taken legal measures against these individuals. The Public Prosecutor stated that these publications incite public hatred, hostility, and misinformation, as they disseminate provocative and manipulated content aimed at destabilizing order and public peace.

The official statement released by the Public Prosecutors Office reads, Considering the recent events in France, similar incidents may occur involving refugees residing in our country. Such claims, which incite people to hatred, hostility, and misinformation, have triggered an automatic investigation against the individuals who have made statements and broadcasts containing criminal elements.

The decision to launch the investigation followed remarks from the official spokesperson of the Justice and Development Party, Omar Celik. Celik criticized the comparison of Turkeys immigration policy based on humanitarian values with Frances colonial policies and racist violence, deeming it an ignorant and malicious approach. He further condemned politicians, journalists, and commentators who suggested that refugees in Turkey could potentially cause conflicts akin to those seen in France. Celik viewed these statements as provocation and incitement to hatred against refugees.

Celik highlighted that since 2016, when Turkey initiated cross-border operations in response to the escalating humanitarian crisis in Syria, nearly 500,000 Syrians have voluntarily returned to safe areas established by Turkey. Ankara supports and encourages voluntary return as part of its strategy. Celik emphasized that evaluating Turkey based on events in colonial countries, which have root causes rooted in racist violence, aligns with the mentality of European fascists, and such an approach will not be tolerated.

Umit Ozdag, the leader of the anti-Syrian refugee Victory Party, made provocative statements on his Twitter account suggesting that if an incident were to occur in Turkey, it would surpass the events witnessed in France as a mere childs game. The Turkish government and its officials have vehemently rejected and disapproved of these statements, condemning them as an attempt to target Syrian refugees while sowing fear and hatred in the country, thereby undermining the existing peace.

This article was translated and edited by The Syrian Observer. The Syrian Observer has not verified the content of this story. Responsibility for the information and views set out in this article lies entirely with the author.
The UN mechanism for identifying missing persons is humanitarian in nature and lacks criminal jurisdiction, according to Baladi News.

Hassan al-Ahmad, whose brother disappeared in Homs in 2014, is hopeful about the recent international decision to establish an UN-affiliated institution dedicated to missing persons in Syria. He hopes that this institution will provide information about his missing brother. In an interview, Hassan shared his long struggle to find his brother, exhausting all his resources and seeking help from various sources. He believes the new UN institution may finally help him locate his brother.

On the other hand, Tamer al-Hajji, whose father went missing in 2018, has no hope for the UN resolution. He believes that international organizations and resolutions cannot stop the regimes actions. Tamer has surrendered his fathers fate to a higher power, stating that the new decision will have no impact without an enforcement mechanism.

According to international law expert Abdel Nasser Hoshan, the UN mechanism for identifying missing persons is humanitarian in nature and lacks criminal jurisdiction to determine responsibility for crimes. The mechanism requires the regimes approval to initiate its work, which the regime has previously refused to cooperate with or recognize.

Hoshan emphasizes that UN resolutions outside the context of Chapter VII are not coercive. The recent resolution establishes the Independent Institution for Missing Persons in Syria to uncover the fate of over 100,000 missing individuals since the start of the Syrian revolution in 2011.

The draft resolution was co-authored by several countries, with most Western countries and Qatar and Kuwait supporting it. Thirteen countries abstained from voting, including Lebanon, Iraq, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and others. China, Russia, North Korea, Cuba, Iran, and others rejected the resolution.

The establishment of the institution has been described as a historic decision by the Independent International Commission of Inquiry on Syria.

Commission Chair Paulo Pinheiro expressed relief on behalf of the international community regarding the establishment of the special mechanism for missing persons in Syria. He emphasized that families had been left to search for their loved ones alone for too long and that this institution is a necessary humanitarian measure that complements accountability efforts.

Bassam al-Ahmad, director of the Syrians Organization for Truth and Justice, welcomed the decision as a precedent in the UN General Assembly, recognizing its potential long-term impact. He acknowledged that the mechanism would require time to gather staff, compile data, and establish communication with all parties involved in the conflict.

In his interview with Baladi News, al-Ahmad stressed the importance of creating a unified database for all missing persons, involving all parties in Syria, including the regime and other factions. He clarified that the institution would not have binding authority over the regime or the opposition. The resolution calls for cooperation from all parties and organizations to collect information and subsequently exert pressure to reveal the fate of the missing.

Previous UN mechanisms and decisions regarding Syria have received limited response and cooperation from the regime. The lack of binding measures or enforcement has hindered accountability, such as in the case of investigations into chemical attacks in Douma. Human rights activist Ali Al-Ali highlighted the tendency of UN resolutions to remain unimplemented, often lacking the necessary mechanisms to hold the Assad regime and Russia accountable, as seen in the disrupted sessions of the Constitutional Committee.

This article was translated and edited by The Syrian Observer. The Syrian Observer has not verified the content of this story. Responsibility for the information and views set out in this article lies entirely with the author.
THE Reserve Bank of Zimbabwes Financial Intelligence Unit has deployed teams to investigate pharmacies that are engaging in forward pricing, a practice that is believed to be fuelling exchange rate volatility.

FIU director-general Mr Oliver Chiperesa told The Sunday Mail that market surveillance has seen players in the pharmaceuticals sector being flagged for allegedly flouting exchange control regulations and indexing their prices above permitted exchange rate ranges.

Close to 20 companies recently had their bank accounts frozen for malpractices that include forward pricing and reluctance to transact in the local currency.

Forward pricing involves quoting prices using projected future exchange rates.

Mr Chiperesa described the pharmaceutical sector as the last bastion of exchange rate manipulation.

The development comes at a time when the Zimbabwe dollar has begun to gain against the United States dollar on both the official and black markets in response to interventions rolled out by the Government in May.

We are continuing with our surveillance, said Mr Chiperesa.

As I speak, we have sent teams out of Harare, where we have noticed that there are still incidents of non-compliance. We are focusing on pharmacies, which have continued to present problems in the sense that a lot of them are still engaging in forward pricing.

We have been seeing a lot of pharmacies using exchange rates of up to $10 000: US$1, which, as you know, are even higher than the parallel market rate.

The parallel market exchange rate is now somewhere close or even at the same level as the official rate. But pharmacies, for some reason, tend to come up with their own exchange rates.

Many of them are using the $10 000:US$1 exchange rate, and we have others going as high as $12 000:US$1.

The FIU, he said, was going to deal with the non-compliant pharmacies.

He, however, said there was now increased compliance with exchange control regulations in the retail sector.

The closing of the gap between the parallel market and interbank exchange rates has reduced arbitrage opportunities that were being taken advantage of by illicit foreign currency dealers and some corporates.

Incidences of forward pricing are now on the decrease, he said. Sunday Mail
The escalation of violence in Syria is linked to the trajectory of the Syrian-Turkish rapprochement, Athr Press writes.

New leaks have provided confirmation of significant developments in the ongoing Syrian-Turkish rapprochement. Following a meeting in Astana on June 21, involving assistant foreign ministers from Syria, Russia, Turkey, and Iran, Russia announced that the four parties had reached an agreement on a road map for reconciliation between Syria and Turkey. Subsequently, leaks began to emerge, shedding light on the details of the talks and the overall progress of the Syrian-Turkish rapprochement.

Coinciding with the conclusion of the meeting, there were notable field movements in Syria. These included Turkish bombardment targeting areas controlled by the Kurdish Units in northern Syria and joint Russian-Syrian airstrikes on positions held by armed factions in western Syria.

Analysts have linked this escalation to the trajectory of the Syrian-Turkish rapprochement, emphasizing that Syria insists on the withdrawal of Turkish forces from its territory as a prerequisite for any reconciliation with Turkey. The Turkish border remains the last area under the control of armed factions, primarily represented by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (formerly Jabhat al-Nusra), which is listed as a terrorist organization internationally.

A report cited Schiller, a Middle East analyst at the German Heinrich Boll Foundation, who commented on the escalation, suggesting that Russia is exerting pressure on Turkey to normalize its relations with Syria. This would send a significant signal not only to Europe but also to NATO.

Regarding the specifics of the Astana 20 talks, the Turkish newspaper Yeni Shafak, known for its close ties to Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, quoted sources stating that Ankara proposed the establishment of a joint military coordination mechanism for conducting joint operations against terrorist targets. Each country would be represented by a delegate in this mechanism, the details of which are expected to become clearer in future meetings.

Furthermore, Abdel-Bari Atwan, the former editor-in-chief of Rai Al-Youm newspaper, revealed that he had a meeting with President Bashar Al-Assad, during which it was indicated that the Syrian-Turkish rapprochement has witnessed several developments. President Al-Assad made it clear that understanding had been reached and that a withdrawal from Syrian territory would pave the way for an improved relationship compared to the past. It was noted that the Adana Agreement of 1998, which previously regulated relations between the two countries, would serve as the foundation for any future understanding.

At the conclusion of the Astana 20 talks, Alexander Lavrentiev, the Russian Presidents special envoy to Syria, confirmed that Syria, Turkey, and Iran had agreed on the concept of the road map presented by Russia for normalizing relations between Ankara and Damascus. The head of the Iranian delegation, Deputy Foreign Minister Ali Asghar Khaji, also affirmed the desire of Russia, Iran, Turkey, and Syria to hold another meeting at the level of deputy foreign ministers.

It is worth noting that the initial ministerial meeting between Syrian and Turkish representatives took place in December 2022 when the defence ministers of Syria, Turkey, and Russia met in Moscow. This meeting laid the groundwork for the subsequent gathering of assistant foreign ministers from Syria, Turkey, Russia, and Iran on June 20th and 21st.

This article was translated and edited by The Syrian Observer. The Syrian Observer has not verified the content of this story. Responsibility for the information and views set out in this article lies entirely with the author.
The Australian bishops emphasized their ongoing efforts to alleviate the impact of sanctions imposed on Syria, al-Baath reports.

On July 2, 2023, President Bashar al-Assad met with a delegation of heads of Christian Churches from Australia, including bishops from the Armenian Catholic, Armenian Orthodox, and Coptic Orthodox Churches.

The discussions centred around the role of Oriental Churches in Australia and other countries worldwide regarding the moral and ethical aspects of the Syrian issue and the political and economic challenges Syria is currently facing.

The meeting also addressed the responsibilities of the Church leaders in supporting the Syrian community and other Arab communities residing in Australia, particularly in promoting values related to family, identity, homeland, and active engagement in their countries of migration.

The Australian bishops emphasized their ongoing efforts to alleviate the impact of sanctions imposed on Syria and to mitigate the consequences of the war on the countrys material and social infrastructure. They reiterated that their presence in Syria symbolizes their commitment to the nation and their association with its people, who have shown resilience in overcoming the challenges they face.

Aleppo visit

The delegation of bishops visited Aleppo, where they toured the citys historic places of worship and the old markets. They witnessed the damage caused by terrorism and the earthquake that occurred on February 6th.

The delegation members had a meeting with Aleppos Governor, Hussein Diab, during which they expressed their support for the Syrian people. Governor Diab pointed out that the unjust embargo imposed on Syria hampers the countrys development and reconstruction process.

Anba Daniel, a representative of the Coptic Orthodox Church and a member of the Australian delegation, stressed the importance of standing by Syria as an ancient oriental country that has contributed significantly to civilization and constructive achievements.

The visit of the Australian bishops to Aleppo signifies their solidarity and support for the Syrian people in their pursuit of rebuilding and recovery.

This article was translated and edited by The Syrian Observer. The Syrian Observer has not verified the content of this story. Responsibility for the information and views set out in this article lies entirely with the author.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.

The United Nations General Assembly has passed a resolution authorizing the formation of an autonomous organization tasked with investigating the fate of over 130,000 individuals who went missing during the Syrian conflict. Notably, Qatar and Kuwait were the sole Arab nations to endorse this initiative. Meanwhile, in a separate development, Israeli warplanes conducted an airstrike on the Homs region, with indications suggesting the operation targeted Iranian involvement within Syria.

UN to investigate fate of 130,000 people missing in Syria war

The United Nations General Assembly approved a resolution that will establish an independent body to determine what happened to more than 130,000 people missing as a result of the conflict in Syria, Al-Jazeera reported.

The resolution, an important response to appeals by their families and loved ones, was adopted on Thursday by the 193-member world body with 83 votes in favour, 11 opposed and 62 abstentions.

Among those opposing the resolution was Syria, which said it will not cooperate with the new institution. Russia, China, Belarus, North Korea, Cuba and Iran also voted no.

The resolution, spearheaded by Luxembourg, noted that after 12 years of fighting in Syria little progress has been achieved in alleviating the suffering of families by providing answers as to the fate and whereabouts of all missing persons.

The resolution authorises the establishment of an Independent Institution of Missing Persons in the Syrian Arab Republic, under UN auspices, to clarify the fate and whereabouts of all missing persons  and to provide adequate support to victims, survivors and the families of those missing.

Victims, survivors and the families of the missing should be represented in the new body, which will be guided by principles including do no harm, impartiality, transparency and the confidentiality of sources and information, according to the resolution.

UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres must now present terms of reference for the new institution within 80 working days and take steps to speedily establish the body and put it into operation.

New York-based Human Rights Watch said the new organisation needs to have the right tools at its disposal to do its job.

UN member countries should ensure that this new institution has the staff and resources necessary to determine what happened to so many thousands of people who vanished during Syrias 12 years of conflict, Louis Charbonneau, the groups UN director, said in a statement.

Israeli warplanes target Syrian air defence battery

Israeli warplanes targeted a Syrian air defence battery from which an anti-aircraft missile was launched toward Israel, an Israeli military spokesman said early on Sunday, Arab News reported.

The warplanes also attacked other targets in the area, while no casualties were reported from the Syrian missile, said the spokesman, Avichay Adraee.

Syrian state media SANA earlier said the countrys air defences intercepted an Israeli missile strike across central parts of the country and downed most of the missiles.

Quoting an army statement, the Syrian Arab News Agency said missiles that flew over parts of Lebanons capital Beirut hit locations in the vicinity of the city of Homs, resulting only in material damage.

Israel has in recent months intensified strikes on Syrian airports and air bases to disrupt Irans increasing use of aerial supply lines to deliver arms to allies in Syria and Lebanon, including Lebanons Hezbollah

The Israeli strikes are part of an escalation of what has been a low-intensity conflict that has been going on for years with a goal of slowing Irans growing entrenchment in Syria, Israeli military experts say.

Tehrans influence has grown in Syria since it began supporting President Bashar Assad in the civil war that started in 2011.

Fighters allied to Iran, including Hezbollah, now hold sway in areas in eastern, southern, and northwestern Syria and in several suburbs around the capital.

Syria also launched a missile

The Israeli army said early Sunday that a missile was launched from Syrian territory towards Israel. The army clarified in a statement carried by Reuters that the anti-aircraft missile exploded mid-air.

Israeli military spokesman was quoted as saying Israeli warplanes targeted a Syrian air defence battery from which an anti-aircraft missile was launched. He said the warplanes also attacked other targets in the area, while no casualties were reported from the Syrian missile.

Syrian state media SANA earlier said the countrys air defences intercepted an Israeli missile strike across central parts of the country and downed most of the missiles.

Quoting an army statement, the Syrian Arab News Agency said missiles that flew over parts of Lebanons capital Beirut hit locations in the vicinity of the city of Homs, resulting only in material damage.

Israel has in recent months intensified strikes on Syrian airports and air bases to disrupt Irans increasing use of aerial supply lines to deliver arms to allies in Syria and Lebanon, including Lebanons Hezbollah

From Brussels to Damascus, how fringe delegations to Syria are frustrating EU lawmakers

The New Arab has published an analytical article discussing how fringe delegations from Europe to Syria are frustrating EU lawmakers and undermining the EUs policy of political isolation of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad. While Assads return to the Arab League signalled a normalization of relations in the region, the EU remains steadfast in maintaining sanctions against the Syrian government. However, some members of the European Parliament (MEPs) have been voicing support for Assad through unofficial visits, social media comments, and voting patterns.

One prominent MEP mentioned is Thierry Mariani from the French far-right National Rally party, who has visited Syria multiple times and met with Assad. Marianis voting record consistently aligns with Syrian government interests, including advocating for the lifting of sanctions. Estonian Centre Party MEP Yana Toom is another MEP who has met with Assad and faced criticism for misrepresenting EU interests in Syria. The article highlights the blurred line between official and unofficial visits by MEPs and the potential for misrepresentation.

The article also mentions two left-wing MEPs, Clare Daly and Mick Wallace, who have visited Syria and become vocal opponents of sanctions against Assad. Despite their efforts, the EU recently increased sanctions targeting Assads relatives and inner circle, accusing them of involvement in illegal activities.

The analysis notes that the convergence of Europes radical left and right fringes on issues such as migration, Russia, and the wars in Ukraine and Syria is creating a strange alliance. The mounting EU assistance to Syria and the upcoming elections contribute to the motivations of these fringe politicians.

The article raises concerns about the EUs current policy of political isolation of Syria and the conflicting views among MEPs, which undermine the EUs united stance. The lack of clarity regarding what constitutes an official visit and the potential for MEPs to be influenced by propaganda during such visits add to the complexity of the situation. Overall, the article highlights the challenges faced by EU lawmakers in dealing with fringe delegations and their impact on EU-Syria relations.

Whats behind the latest Russian airstrikes in Syria?

DW discussed the recent Russian airstrikes in Syria are believed to be part of a power struggle between Moscow, Damascus, and Ankara, with Syrian civilians paying the price.

In a Russian airstrike on a market in Jisr al-Shughur, at least nine people were killed and dozens injured, making it the deadliest attack so far in 2023. The province of Idlib, where the attack took place, is the last rebel-held region in Syria and is predominantly controlled by Islamist militias.

According to the DW report, the airstrikes are seen as a show of force by Russia, particularly after Syrian President Bashar al-Assads readmission to the Arab League. It is believed that Russia aims to reinforce the perception that brute force is an effective means of achieving its goals.

Additionally, the conflict between Russian President Vladimir Putin and Yevgeny Prigozhin, the leader of the Wagner Group, may have played a role in the airstrikes. The Wagner Groups recent mutiny could have prompted Putin to demonstrate his strength through increased attacks in Idlib.

Another factor in the airstrikes is the tension between Moscow and Ankara. Russian and Syrian forces have also targeted the Jabal al-Zawiya region, which is within the buffer zone established by Russia and Turkey. Turkeys presence in northern Syria, its support for the armed opposition, and its occupation of certain areas have been a source of disagreement with Damascus.

Moscow wants Turkey to normalize its relations with Syria, as it would send a signal to Europe and NATO. However, Turkey has different interests, as President Recep Tayyip Erdogan aims to create a larger security zone in Syrian territory and repatriate Syrian refugees.

The conflicting interests between Turkey, Syria, and Russia  DW argues  have hindered a resolution to the situation in Idlib. Turkey does not want to withdraw its troops from Syria, while Assad seeks to regain control over the entire country. The presence of Turkish troops has prevented Damascus and Moscow from launching a full military offensive to retake Idlib.

The airstrikes in Syria highlight the complexity of the power dynamics and conflicts of interest in the region. Syrian civilians continue to suffer as the struggle between these actors unfolds.

Putins Syria policy hangs on amid Russian crackdown on Wagner

Can the Kremlin live without Wagner in Syria?

Probably, writes Anton Mardasov from Moscow, in a must-read analysis of the implications of the ill-fated Wagner coup threat for Russias foreign policies in Africa and the Middle East.

The article discusses the implications of the recent mutiny within Yevgeny Prigozhins Wagner Group, a Russian mercenary army that has been involved in various foreign operations aligned with Russian foreign policy. The mutiny has raised questions about the future of Wagners activities in Syria and Africa.

While replacing Wagner in Africa may be difficult, the challenges may be less in Syria. There, it is hypothetically easiest to replace over time the extensive military and administrative structure of the Wagner PMC and solve the problem of mercenary salaries, which are several times higher than the salary of a Russian contract servicemen, writes Mardasov.

In addition to the cadre of military personnel in Syria, there is Redut PMC, created by the [Russian] MoD, staffed and funded by Airborne reservists. Also, the projects of Gennady Timchenko, a businessman close to the Kremlin, continue to operate in Syria, which may well absorb Prigozhins economic projects in Homs and several other provinces, he writes.

Russian experts agree that changes within Russias political system, particularly in the defense sector, are now inevitable following the mutiny. There are indications that the Kremlin intends to deprive Prigozhin of his political tools within Russia. However, the situation is more complicated when it comes to foreign projects.

Prigozhins foreign projects have included information campaigns targeting American electoral processes and mercenary military operations in Syria and other countries. These projects have often been carried out in coordination with Russian authorities. In Libya, for example, Wagners presence was activated when the Russian Foreign Ministry and Defense Ministry began supporting Khalifa Hifter. However, when Hifters advances failed, the level of Wagners presence was reduced, and the Foreign Ministry shifted its engagement.

The future of Wagners activities in Syria and Africa is uncertain. The Russian government has informed authorities in Syria, the Central African Republic, Mali, and other countries that it is taking control of the Wagner Group, indicating a potential reorganization. However, it is challenging to reorganize Wagners work without consequences and accidents. The removal of Wagners assets abroad could lead to a rapid compression of Russian influence, particularly in Africa.

Overall, the mutiny within Wagner has significant implications for Russias foreign policy activities and highlights the complexities of managing mercenary groups involved in sensitive operations abroad.

Biden administration tightens limits on airstrikes excluding Syria

North Press reports that U.S. military and Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) drone operators must obtain advance permission from President Biden to target a suspected militant outside a conventional war zone, excluding Syria and Iraq, the New York Times reported.

They must have near certainty at the moment of any strike that civilians will not be injured, according to the New York Times.

The rules tightened constraints on drone strikes and commando raids that President Donald Trump had loosened in 2017.

The Biden administration partly declassified and disclosed the document, along with an 18-page national security memo laying out its international counterterrorism strategy, after The New York Times filed a Freedom of Information Act lawsuit.

A senior administration official, speaking on the condition of anonymity, said the government currently considers only Iraq and Syria, where operations against Islamic State (ISIS) continue.
Muskan Sethi

Sexual Violence and the New Nation[1]

During the first half of the 20th century the historical moments in the Indian context enabled public speech about the sexual violence. But this phase did not address the sexual violence faced by the disenfranchised and underprivileged woman. This is because of the social order to which they belong. They daily experience sexual discrimination and humiliation because they were considered low in the hierarchy, even marriage structure and property-lessness contributed to it. Even the criminal law punishes the individuated crime (like rape addressing violence) but it did not take note of the social structure which was responsible for placing the socially and economically weak and vulnerable women at the sexual service of dominant caste men.

Dr. Ambedkar also believed that the social reform in the past has only benefited the upper caste Hindu women. Therefore the need of the hour is to transform the whole caste system. The caste structure according to him is the root cause of the inequalities prevailing in the society. The law of endogamy leads to the apartness as it ensured that marriages across castes dont happen. The Constitution of India and the Hindu law provided the right to woman to be free to exit unhappy marriage. Caste at least from the laws notion became irrelevant which was believed by Ambedkar to be assisting in challenging the unreasonable and rigid caste hierarchy. However Ambedkar was aware of the fact that law alone cannot bring about a social change and thus what is required is social persuasion, movement, protest, argument. The law gives these socially oppressed the right to claim justice. For securing the social and political ends of the democracy what is required is the realization of freedom and equality. This can only be achieved by transforming the caste structure.

Sexual hurt was recognised only of the Upper class and Hindu caste women and not of the lower class/caste women. Even for law Individual woman was the subject of reform irrespective of the caste/class. The determination of the womens status was left to States own devices. It failed to take note of the context in which the woman was situated. It was believed by the State that by enacting laws related to marriage, divorce and property etc. they have settled the womens problems. This reduced the issues of caste, class, family as matters of law and thus it was not debated in the public space. This completely ignored the sexual crimes committed against the adivasi, poor, lower caste and dalit women.

In this chapter two contexts are taken by V. Geetha one relates to the response taken by the State of the sexual violence and the other is the response taken by the social and political movements of the subordinate caste and underclass of the sexual violence. When India became independent it was not merely a normative entity but had an institutional life. It carried the colonial legacy till date. The majority of the reformers were socially privileged. The government employees and other department officers because of the social privilege and State power commit evil deeds with impunity. It was clear that the State in its daily functioning mirrors or hides the violence and inequality prevailing in the society.

In 1957 a case took place which shows that how State officers escape accountability even for grave offences like rape, murder by resorting to their professional and caste status. In this case[2] gang rape was committed by three men- Harnarain Singh (APP, Gurgaon), Mauji Ram (Deputy Superintendent of Jail, Gurgaon), Balbir Singh. The facts of the case are these three were partying and coerced Kalu Ram (servant) to bring his wife (19 year old) for entertaining the guests. She was eventually raped and murdered. Her dead body was cremated with haste. The defence lawyer gave the perverse arguments that she consented and was willing party during the sexual intercourse. She died due to heart failure and that these men are of respectable status. Justice Tek Chand refused the arguments given by the defence counsel. The solicitation of the lower class girl and the manner they treated her when she died shows the psyche of these officers and their contempt towards a person placed lower in caste/class hierarchy. Sexual violence even today is dealt as an individuated crime by the law. But class dominance, caste empowered masculine and hegemonic structures remain outside the purview of law which reinforces sexual violence and humiliation to maintain itself.

In another case of 1963 a dalit women (Sirsagaonvillage, Aurangabad district, Maharashtra) were dragged out of their houses, beaten, stripped and paraded naked. The accused was arrested and punished for illegal trespass, molestation and violence. It was said that the accused punished these women for drawing water from the common well but the truth was that one of them refused the sexual advances made by the dominant caste man. This forced the kin of the dalit woman to visit the wife of the dominant caste man and this was not taken well by the accused. Thus they tried to punish these women by doing the above acts. The sad part is the wife of the accused was the witness of this event and she was relishing the humiliation caused to these dalit women. This shows that her sexual and caste identity is such that she is not able to perceive the sexual vulnerabilities as that of dalit women. Sexual humiliation is done in order to affirm the caste dominance and control. It became really difficult for these women to speak of the nature of the crimes committed against them because the perpetrator has shamed their intimate selves and this has shamed/stigmatize these women thus leading to the limits on free speech.

V.Geetha talked about two movements- one before the attaining of independence and the other originating in late colonial India. Dr. B.R. Ambedkar initiated the campaigns since late 1920s which brought to the fore the oppression and humiliation faced by the lower dalit women. Their roles of prostitution, entertainers for the upper caste and class people created a perception that they are always sexually available. It compromised ones personhood and thus resulted in denying of respect and dignity to the women. Right to enter temples, respectable conjugality were important rights but what was more important was to be counted as equal human in every sense. However community hurt took precedence in the honour discourse. To tackle this, dalit womens speech became important and this call attention to not only caste hurt but also sexual one. Shivubaistated that dalit men must acknowledge their role in creating this institution of muralis. Many dalit girls in order to escape this convert into Christianity and Islam. In 1930s and 1940s the dalit agricultural workers and lower caste radical peasant movements were very active. Lower caste dalit women were not merely labourers but also chattel slaves for the landlords. Sexual servitude was expected of them. In case of clash between the landlords and workers the worst effected people were the women. They were raped, attacked and brutally humiliated. The violence became gendered.

Even in Pakistan and Sri Lanka initially women got rights in marriage, divorce, education and other matters but gradually when the State became powerful, the debates became less. It is only when the rights were asserted or claimed before the State, the women rights were recognised. Lower caste and class women have always suffered. Even in Sri Lanka the middle class women and Sinhala women got benefitted from the education and employment policies of the government. But the labouring plantation Tamils suffered continuously from the low pay, denial of civil rights and sexual exploitation. In Pakistan the All Pakistan Womens Association brought about the legal reform and during the presidency of Ayub Khan the Family Law Ordinance was passed in 1961 which provided for divorce rights, compulsory registration of marriages, and prevention of arbitrary contracting of polygamous marriage.

Conclusion

What the researcher inferred from the above chapter is that cultural attitudes towards the sexuality determine or best explains the sexual violence and the impunity it claims for itself. Its the social, legal and psychological state that instigates the perpetrator to act without any fear of guilt. Law is an instrument of change in the society but alone it cannot change the rigid social structure. It is none the less an important initial step to curb the menace of social evil. The caste dominance and stereotypical orthodox mentality is so imbedded in our culture that law alone cannot tackle this issue. The State is mirroring the violence caused by its agents and is continuously neglecting the pain/loss suffered by the dalit women. This is so because law is not taking into consideration the aspect of hegemonic caste structure which is reinforcing violence in order to affirm its superiority. Public debates related to this has reduced and even where different political, social movements have become less effective in dealing with the chaos. The stereotypes and stigma attached to the victim and the looking down of the dalit women as someone who asked for it shows the orthodox psyche thus contributing to the strengthening of the rigid caste structure.

The two case laws show the disgusting side of our own people. There were no inhibitions among the accused who buried the dead body of the dalit women after raping her. The defence counsel despite the acts committed by the accused term these accused as respectable people. They had no compassion or feeling of guilt as to what they did. The high caste woman in one of the case was seeking pleasure while the naked dalit women were parading. This shows that she was not aware of the vulnerabilities of the dalit women despite the fact she herself was a female. Caste prejudices and class interests troubled the new nation which just got independent. The nation building years were however hopeful even if they cause certain trouble. No matter State acted as an arbiter for addressing the evils of deprivation and cruelty still it allowed only certain sorts of speech about violence, equality and justice. To avoid the question of its legitimacy the State hides the violence its officials perpetrate and thus deal with them with impunity. This limit to speech is against the very democratic ideal and is constantly weakening the base of the liberal democracy. Rape happens but why dalit women is the worst affected is because of the social, economic and sexual vulnerability of them by the dominant upper caste and class men.

Challenging Class and State[3]

In 1960s India saw war, class wars, famines, breaking of the unitary model. It was a decade full of troubles. Though this decade also proved important in policy making and nation-building. 5 year plans, Green Revolution, expansion of heavy industry, power, road building and infrastructure got improved in this phase. Due to expanding development the economic patterns got changed and it affected the rural way of living thus leading to migration, displacement and formation of Left ideology. National sovereignty was challenged by many developments like military governments success in Pakistan, rise of Bangla Nationalism in East Pakistan, Kashmir dispute leading to disastrous war and the rise of anti-State opinion in within the Sinhala Leftists and Tamil Nationalists in Sri Lanka. Radical movement challenges caste and class structure since it is what is actually sustaining the sexual violence.

Militant Left movements proved beneficial in 1960 for bringing to light the question of womens bodily integrity and dignity. In the Srikakulum struggle, AP (1968) the hill adivasi labourers (girijans) formed themselves against the entrenched land and state interests. This brought to the fore the issue of sexual servitude that dalit women were expected to provide in addition to the labour. The violence she suffered at the hands of landlords, labour contractors and State officials was addressed through this movement. West Bengal and Bihar also saw such movements. In 1967 the Naxalbaris rose to power. It was basically a militant peasant struggle. It began in West Bengal keeping in mind the memory of great Tebhaga agrarian struggle of 1940s. This in the long run led to the birth of Left-Wing militant group. These radical Left Naxals provoked and forced the Indian State to indulge in unprecedented and brutal attack on male activists as well as female political persons. The State violence targeted the body of Naxalite in a manner that posed serious and pertinent questions of the very meaning of the term bodily integrity and dignity. Gendered bodily humiliation, suffering, bodily and sexual violence was faced by both men and women. It became impossible to separate sexual abuse from that of others which complicated or created new problems for the public speech about impunity. Both state torture and sexual violence as understood in the movement can be expressed in some ways and it is very difficult to express them in other ways.

The analysis of Naxalbari struggle shows the gendered boundaries that male/female comrades cross when they join the militancy as well as what limitations they face. Gradually these armed peasants (Naxals) were directed by urban middle class leaders. In Bengal, the adivasis and lower caste peasants violently acquired land from the landlords thereby challenging the social control and humiliation they suffer despite they are the ones who cultivated the crops. It attracted many middle and lower middle class, intellectuals, politically charges youths, women etc. The movement however shifted to killing of those opposing the movement (class enemies) from that of mobilisation of peasants and labourers thus glorifying the culture of brutal political violence.

Even the peasant and adivasi women were active in the struggle. They faced police violence, took part in land/grain appropriation claims, worked as couriers and also provided shelter to many urban activists. They also killed many tyrants and were inspired by the memories of Tebhaga. However the sad part is their valour has not been sufficiently acknowledged. Even the urban male leaders asserted that womens participation was very meagre and even if they do participate it is only for providing food, shelter and courier services. Their participation according to them was one of practical concerns advancing the movement and not that of political consciousness. According to them the urban middle class women became activists since they admire and hero-worship young men who were working for the movement. The stereotypical notions of womens position in the minds of male comrades forced them to think of women killing other as one of personal vendetta than that for the movement. This shows that according to them the women are not conscious political actors as they did not have sufficient political sensitivity and linguistic means. They were not as determined as male comrades were in the struggle. But there were few peasant leaders such as KanuSanyalwho acknowledge the contribution made by female comrades. The narrative however generally was that impassioned male intellectual activists were the ones who were in majority and the females only take part as a follower or admirer of male comrades (even in such cases the number is minimal). However Sinha Roy states that the old women used to mentor the young female comrades and helping them by their previous experiences of old struggles. They took active part in wage increments, better working conditions, better roads and right over cultivable land. This was done by fighting against the everyday sexual humiliation and violence faced by them in the name of gender, caste and class.

The middle and lower middle class women of the cities had very less roles in the movement as that of peasant ones. They indulge in message bearers, propagandists and mobilisation of the people in order to convince them to join the movement. Many of them due to such factors gave up their caste/class privilege and took residence in slums/countryside. Some also joined the factory. They however left later on since the male comrades were not able to ensure sexual safety of these urban women activists. These women in the interviews have stated the problems that they faced during their stay in the villages. Even the instances of sexual harassment and rape of these women were taken as something for which the upper class women were responsible. This shows that the Naxalite male was disembodied in such cases and the matter was taken as that of class. The narrative was that it is easier for the upper class woman to complain of a lower class man. But such was not the case when the matter was of such nature that hampers or affects the Naxals public identity. In such cases the stern action was taken. But the death sentence to the rapist in order to secure womens honour reveals the masculine ideal of undeniable violence.

The sexual vulnerabilities were offset by the comradeship. The urban class women made ties with the rural lower adivasi women. This however did not bridge the gap that they had because of the class and caste structure. Different social locations made it impossible to uniform the gender norms. The urban caste/class women working in factories realised that the lower class/caste women responding to sexual advances by the male superiors is not what she imagined. These lower class women take these sexual advances as part of their work and take it as an opportunity for improving ones material prospects.

Marriage was allowed but it was more of a testament to comradeship than that of conjugality. Everything was seen as part of revolution and there was no scope of romanticism, desire, kin obligations, family etc. Living together was allowed however the brunt of shame is to be faced by the women largely. Marriages were not stable and divorces, separations were flexible. The women whose husband died in the revolution acquired the status of a martyr. This shows her political/emotional choices are subjugated to a mere symbol (keeper of revolutionarys memory). Even child care was highly problematic. She had to take care of the child on her own with minimum care facilities. Undue concern of her child out of love labels her as individualistic bourgeoisie. This shows that that even these people treat the women as property of peasant males. This shows the same treatment of women as male patriarchal property. Gender stereotypes were not challenged even among these movements and women were highly restricted to motherhood roles when the child was born.

The wives of peasants do not view themselves as being protected by their husbands. Their sense of sexual victimhood is not what the urban male activists imagined about. Even a woman who was sexually exploited did not take revenge from the oppressor. They give priority to capturing land than sexual honour. But that does not mean that sexual honour was not important to them, it was but not more than the movements objectives. They consider it as a condition of existence that needs to be challenged.

The womens roles, work and political understanding was however even in such movements were defined in the terms of dependency, victimhood and supplementary status. Their feminine character was so imbibed in the mentality of even the male comrades that they were seldom trusted with political tasks. This does not mean that they were not politically insensitive to gender issues but they did not consider it worth raising a political issue. The changing character of the movement from mass mobilization to individual annihilation reduced the womens participation since it was very difficult for the orthodox male imagination to accept that the women could actually indulge in killing.

Femininity was taken as a norm, habit and custom thus leading to diminishing the very personhood of the women. However in few cases the women when arrested, tortured and humiliated by the police (agency of State) became the political subject. They were recognised as martyrs in AP and Chattisgarh. The question that V.Geethabrought to the fore is the sexual politics of the armed struggle. This means the sexuality and sexual difference shapes everyday life and renders female sexuality to the care/protection of the male. Their contribution in this case gave them revolutionary status but it did not helped in undoing of the gender roles or sexual differences.ArchanaGuha case[4] saw the brunt of State violence. She, her friend, her sister in law and her brother were arrested and tortured by the police. They were accused of being Naxalites. Though the officer was sentenced to 1 year imprisonment but she lost her lower limbs. The State through this sort of extreme violence made it difficult for the victims to separate themselves from the pain and torture. The trauma that such incidents have on the minds of the survivors does not heal swiftly. It takes time. Sometime ones whole life falls short to forget the tremors of the past, the violence, torture and humiliation one faced without any fault on their part. The Feminist Movements are haunted by the question that how much justice can be achieved by just way of healing. They have to deal with not only non-State actors but also violence perpetrated by the State actors.

Conclusion

The sexual politics is reinforced not only in the matters which are dealt by the State but also in the armed resistance movements against the State. The unhappy marriage between the Marxism and Feminism is said to take place. But its sustenance depends upon the objectives it wishes to achieve. Even the Left radicals have ignored the gender issue and it has defeated the feminists worldwide. The patriarchal notion of women being treated as the property of the men is not challenged by the Left and they have also fallen into the same trap where womens potential/role is restricted to dependent, victimhood and supplementary ones. Even when women participate in the movement they were not given credits per se but their contribution is recognised in association with the admiration they have for their male partners. Even when they sacrifice their lives or kill someone it is seen as a trait of masculinity within them. This stereotypical notion and orthodox mentality has never benefited the women in the past and the same will not benefit in the future. The male psyche and imagination makes it difficult to break the narrative that is being propagated or carried since long. The women peasant killing the enemy is seen as she had some personal vendetta with the enemy especially of the sexual hurt and generally her contribution is not recognised as that of male comrades.

Therefore the need of the hour is to sensitize the people that gender, sexuality and sex is something not natural but only a construct to satisfy the contextual myths. Who produces knowledge must also be questioned. The sexual politics renders the women always under the care and protection of the men. This shows that inherently women are weak. Thus there is a need to challenge this narrative by addressing the context of the various literatures and the source of knowledge production. State violence and torture affects women the most. Even in the riots women of lower caste/class gets affected the most. They are more vulnerable not because they are weak but because we as a society place honour in them. Once they lose their honour which the community has placed on them they face stigmatization and victimization thus leading to loss of self-confidence.

Bibliography

Geetha, Undoing Impunity (Zubaan, New Delhi, 1stedn. 2016).

Rao Harnarain Singh Sheoji Singh The State, 1958 CriLJ 563.

Archana Guha Ranjit @ Runu Guha Neogi and Ors., 1990 CrLJ 2012.

Most Crimes Against Dalits Are Against SC Women: NCRB Data, available at: https://thewire.in/caste/ncrb-crimes-against-dalits-women (last visited on May 7, 2018).

[1] V. Geetha, Undoing Impunity 79-97 (Zubaan, New Delhi, 1stedn. 2016).

[2] RaoHarnarain Singh Sheoji Singh v.The State, 1958 CriLJ 563.

[3] Supra note 1 at 98-112.

[4] ArchanaGuha v. Ranjit alias RunuGuhaNeogi and ors., 1990 CrLJ 2012.
The mayors of Longview stick around well after their terms run out.

Of the nine most recent former mayors of Longview, seven of them still live or work in the city. They still cross paths at city events and coffee shops throughout town. All seven took a group picture with city manager Kurt Sacha and current Mayor MaryAlice Wallis when Sacha retired in February.

The group were elected to the Longview City Council and chosen by their fellow councilmembers as mayor, a notable but largely ceremonial leadership role in a town where the city manager has the final say over many issues.

The other two contemporary mayors and longtime councilors have passed away. Mark Hoehne died in 1997, shortly after he ended a 16-year run on the City Council. John Crocker was on the City Council for 20 years and died in 2004.

To kick off the papers series of stories about the Longview Centennial, The Daily News sat down with all of the living former mayors to discuss how Longview has changed during their lifetimes, the standout moments and issues from their time in office, and how they feel about the citys future.

If people get on the council to make their lives better, to make friends and influence people, its not going to happen, said Don Jensen, Longviews most recent ex-mayor. You do your best for your city and you move on.

Early impressions

Mark McCradys parents moved to Longview in the 1930s. McCrady has lived in the city for its entire life. Like many of the other mayors who grew up in town, McCrady remembered the area feeling more rural and spent a lot of time playing outside.

It was a town big enough that you could find plenty to do but small enough that you knew almost everybody, McCrady said.

At the other end of the spectrum was George Raiter. Raiter and his wife moved to Longview in 1972 after being hired for a leadership role at Reynolds Aluminum. Raiter said his first impressions of Longview were its vibrancy and economic strength.

You just know that theres energy in the community. Some of it goes with education levels but its not just that. Because of the mills, all you needed was a high school diploma and you were making a living wage for your family, Raiter said.

The citys small-town feel continues today, said Kurt Anagnostou.

Its always been a close-knit community that has looked out for each other and I dont think thats changed. That was the attitude of the citizens when I was first elected (in 1999), he said.

Karen Bergquist was born in Longview, went to high school in Toutle in the late 1950s and moved back to Longview with her husband after college, during the start of the environmental movement  which affected the local logging work  and the development of Interstate 5.

Change is hard but I always thought change was good, Bergquist said. When we first moved to Toutle my parents would go to Centralia and Chehalis to do our shopping because it was easier to get there. Soon enough, the city became more established and I think the rural areas found us as a center to come home.

City changes

Cowlitz County had one of the lowest unemployment rates in the state in the 1980s. That strength was driven by Longview and its timber industry.

Now, the state reports over the past two decades, the countys unemployment rate has run about two percentage points higher than the national average.

This was built as a mill town, it remains a mill town, but mills have gone through dramatic changes, said Dennis Weber, former mayor and current Cowlitz County Commissioner.

Increased automation at the paper mills, which started in the 1980s, slowly shrunk the number of workers in the industry. Reynolds Aluminum faded out as an economic driver, starting when the company was bought out by Alcoa in 2000 and lasting over the next two years.

Ramona Leber said the city had gone through economic struggles, starting when she was first elected in the early 1990s and again during the COVID-19 closures.

I would say Longview is livable because of the gradual changes. The qualify of life is constant, for the most part, rather than seeing big upswings or downturns, Leber said.

Longviews business climate has been a major focus for the citys mayors even outside the mills.

To replace the job losses at the mills, the city worked to establish the Mint Farm industrial complex and made zoning changes to build the Triangle Mall.

The other focus of those discussions was downtown Longview. Weber said that in the early 1980s, the focus was department stores like Macys and Bon Marche in downtown Longview. Both stores moved across the river to Kelso when the Three Rivers Mall opened, which Weber said worried him less at the time than other councilmembers.

We know how much people like to go shopping in Vancouver and Portland. If we do it right, and we have a thriving mall in Kelso, Longviews still going to get their fair share of secondary spending, Weber said. We should embrace that change.

The status of downtown remained a major topic when Anagnostou joined the council in 1999. The beautification projects the city tackled in the 1980s were wrapping up. There was a trend of churches and nonprofits moving into vacant storefronts.

At the same time, when I started in council the state had just allowed casinos to come in, and we didnt want downtown to be churches and casinos, Anagnostou said.

Tenure highlights

Two of the former mayors pointed to the saving of the Columbia Theatre as a tenure highlight. The theater, built in 1925, had been on the brink of destruction before the 1980 eruption of Mount St. Helens. When attention returned back to the theater, a citizen task force had rallied to preserve the building. Longview officials decided to purchase the theater in 1983.

Leber helped oversee to short-term projects in the late 1990s, including a youth suicide-prevention task force and the Longview Teen Council, the latter of which helped spearhead the creation of Cloney Skate Park.

In the late 2000s, multiple mayors dealt with the controversial change to the citys water source from the Cowlitz River to underground wells near the Mint Farm.

The change still divides the mayors who were in office at the time. Jensen felt the city had been bamboozled by the eventual cost it would take to improve the well water quality. Anagnostou defended the need to move away from the river because of the lingering pollution from the Mount St. Helens eruption.

I was sitting there as the mayor, looking at the city running out of water. That was scary, Anagnostou said. I dont think we could have made any better decision than the one we did.

At the most recent end, Jensen pointed to the creation of the gazebo in R.A. Long Park in 2018. Jensen was still holding out hope for other additions to the park hed worked on near the end of his term, like events similar to the citys Summer Concert Series, but said there were multiple important projects the council approved every month.

There are so many things, some that show like the gazebo, and some of them dont. You cant dwell on one of the things you got done, Jensen said.

What do they see in Longviews future?

All seven of the former mayors were optimistic about Longviews future, though to different extents.

Longviews location would continue to make it attractive for businesses and families. Others pointed to the attitude of its citizens.

We have a city of caring people. Whatever theyre interested in, theyre willing to work on it and volunteer for it. Theyre willing to come to the table and discuss it, Leber said.

Raiter said he was as optimistic now as hed been 25 years ago, more due to the citys growing diversity than its economic progress. Women make up the majority of the students at Lower Columbia College. Raiter pointed to the racial diversity Longview had developed over the last 50 years. Most recent U.S. Census data shows 84% of Longview residents are white, compared to 98% in 1970.

Bergquist felt the political polarization had gotten more extreme in the 20 years since she left office. She felt it was a bigger issue for national politics than local ones, but it was something she hoped Longview could improve.

I think that until we learn to talk to each other again and are able to take some of our ideology and bury it ... Thats the biggest problem we have. We do have a future if we work together like we did in the past, Bergquist said.

Longview mayors from 1982 George Raiter: city council 1978-1985, mayor 1982-1985. Dennis Weber: city council 1979-1991 and 2001-2013, mayor 1984-1991, 2006- 2007, 2012. Mark Hoehne: city council 1979- 1995, mayor from 1992-1993; died 1997. John Crocker: city council 1979- 1999, mayor from 1994-1995; died 2004. Ramona Leber: city council 1991-2007, mayor 1996-1999. Karen Bergquist: city council 1989- 2001, mayor 2000-2001. Mark McCrady: city council 1993-2007, mayor 2002-2005. Kurt Anagnostou: city council 1999-2011, mayor 2008-2011. Don Jensen: city council 1999-2019, mayor 2012-2019. MaryAlice Wallis: city council 2017-present, mayor 2020-present.
Japan Airport Terminal Co., Ltd. (OTCMKTS:JTTRY  Free Report) saw a large decline in short interest during the month of June. As of June 15th, there was short interest totalling 200 shares, a decline of 50.0% from the May 31st total of 400 shares. Based on an average trading volume of 100 shares, the short-interest ratio is currently 2.0 days.

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PRESIDENT Emmerson Mnangagwa has issued a stern warning to some businesses that have, in the past week, devised new measures to cripple the economy through creating artificial shortages of goods saying the Government will not sit and watch the practice go out of hand.

Addressing thousands of Zanu-PF supporters at Nyele Primary School in Bulilima, Matabeleland South Province yesterday, President Mnangagwa said that the behaviour was one of the latest strategies being employed by those working against Zanu-PF.

His statement comes in the wake of a sudden disappearance of basic commodities including sugar, cooking oil and flour in most shops especially in major urban areas. The shortage is despite Government recently exempting a list of basic goods from import tax after an attack was directed on the local currency two months ago triggering a wave of price increases. Speaking at the oversubscribed star rally, President Mnangagwa said he had since directed a team to investigate the latest shenanigans.

We are being attacked, currently, nema price achikwira. Why? Just when we announced that we are going for a general election, our enemies decided to cause problems among our people, ma-prices kutanga kukwira kunana Inscor, said the President.

I have been told today that some Indians in Harare are stocking basic goods in Harare. Vanonotenga sugar yakawanda kuChiredzi, all the basic goods like flour and so on vo-stocker muma warehouses, vokwidza ma-price.

Added President Mnangagwa: Let me warn them. I have my people investigating these warehouses and if it is true, we shall confiscate not only the warehouses, but also the things inside and give to you to distribute. If they want to hoard, ngavadzokere vanoita hoard kunyika dzekwavo not in Zimbabwe. Our government will never never tolerate such activities in independent Zimbabwe.

President Mnangagwa reiterated that economic stability and development was at the heart of the Second Republic. He emphasised that Zimbabweans should rally behind Governments development agenda conscious of the fact that the country could only be developed by its people. He said Zimbabwe would forge ahead using its natural and human resources.

President Mnangagwa said Zimbabwe had adopted a deliberate plan to stimulate economic growth and development from grassroot levels.

We have a system of devolution. In the past everything was done in Harare. We made decisions in Harare, in Cabinet, for every district, for every province, for every ward. Then we realised that we in Harare cannot know the pressing needs for each community. So, we decided to introduce devolution funds which are then sent to communities. Since 2020 we have sent $16 billion to Matabeleland South for you to deal with small community needs. We shall continue to increase devolution funds.

President Mnangagwa said Matabeleland South was rich in minerals and the Zanu-PF government would continue to ensure the resources benefit the communities first and the economy as a whole.

He also called for a realisation of full tourism benefits in the province taking advantage of Matopos, which attracts foreigners. Sunday News
Valicenti Advisory Services Inc. purchased a new position in shares of Invesco New York AMT-Free Municipal Bond ETF (NYSEARCA:PZT  Free Report) during the 1st quarter, according to its most recent 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The fund purchased 16,610 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $378,000. Valicenti Advisory Services Inc. owned about 0.42% of Invesco New York AMT-Free Municipal Bond ETF as of its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).

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The PowerShares New York AMT-Free Municipal Bond Portfolio (the Fund), formerly The PowerShares Insured New York Municipal Bond Portfolio, is based on The BofA Merrill Lynch New York Long-Term Core Plus Municipal Securities Index (Index). The Fund will invest at least 80% of its total assets in municipal securities that comprise the Index.

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Shares of AutoZone, Inc. (NYSE:AZO  Free Report) have been assigned an average recommendation of Moderate Buy from the nineteen ratings firms that are covering the company, Marketbeat Ratings reports. Two research analysts have rated the stock with a hold recommendation and seventeen have given a buy recommendation to the company. The average 12-month price target among brokerages that have updated their coverage on the stock in the last year is $2,716.00.

A number of brokerages have commented on AZO. Raymond James upped their price objective on AutoZone from $2,650.00 to $2,850.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a report on Wednesday, April 19th. Wells Fargo & Company increased their target price on AutoZone from $2,850.00 to $3,000.00 in a report on Monday, May 15th. StockNews.com began coverage on AutoZone in a report on Thursday, May 18th. They set a buy rating on the stock. JPMorgan Chase & Co. increased their target price on AutoZone from $2,750.00 to $2,975.00 in a report on Friday, May 12th. Finally, Bank of America raised AutoZone from an underperform rating to a neutral rating and increased their target price for the stock from $2,120.00 to $2,465.00 in a report on Thursday, June 1st.

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Insider Activity

In other news, VP Dennis W. Leriche sold 1,420 shares of the stock in a transaction dated Wednesday, April 12th. The stock was sold at an average price of $2,573.04, for a total value of $3,653,716.80. Following the completion of the sale, the vice president now owns 379 shares of the companys stock, valued at $975,182.16. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is available at this link. In other news, VP Domingo Hurtado sold 90 shares of the stock in a transaction dated Wednesday, May 31st. The stock was sold at an average price of $2,376.49, for a total value of $213,884.10. Following the completion of the sale, the vice president now owns 275 shares of the companys stock, valued at $653,534.75. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is available at this link. Also, VP Dennis W. Leriche sold 1,420 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Wednesday, April 12th. The stock was sold at an average price of $2,573.04, for a total value of $3,653,716.80. Following the sale, the vice president now directly owns 379 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $975,182.16. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Over the last quarter, insiders sold 5,240 shares of company stock valued at $13,125,472. Company insiders own 2.59% of the companys stock.

Institutional Investors Weigh In On AutoZone

AutoZone Price Performance

Several large investors have recently added to or reduced their stakes in the business. ProShare Advisors LLC grew its stake in AutoZone by 14.7% during the first quarter. ProShare Advisors LLC now owns 2,669 shares of the companys stock worth $6,561,000 after purchasing an additional 342 shares during the period. Empower Advisory Group LLC acquired a new stake in AutoZone during the first quarter worth approximately $279,000. 3Chopt Investment Partners LLC acquired a new stake in AutoZone during the first quarter worth approximately $733,000. Putnam Investments LLC grew its stake in AutoZone by 10.1% during the first quarter. Putnam Investments LLC now owns 11,895 shares of the companys stock worth $29,240,000 after purchasing an additional 1,089 shares during the period. Finally, Centaurus Financial Inc. acquired a new stake in AutoZone during the first quarter worth approximately $108,000. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 98.36% of the companys stock.

Shares of NYSE AZO opened at $2,493.36 on Friday. The stocks fifty day moving average price is $2,533.65 and its two-hundred day moving average price is $2,487.22. AutoZone has a one year low of $2,050.21 and a one year high of $2,750.00. The firm has a market cap of $45.28 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 19.68, a P/E/G ratio of 1.51 and a beta of 0.68.

AutoZone (NYSE:AZO  Free Report) last issued its quarterly earnings data on Tuesday, May 23rd. The company reported $34.12 EPS for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $30.84 by $3.28. AutoZone had a negative return on equity of 62.38% and a net margin of 14.45%. The firm had revenue of $4.09 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $4.12 billion. During the same period in the prior year, the firm posted $29.03 EPS. The companys revenue for the quarter was up 11.0% on a year-over-year basis. On average, equities analysts anticipate that AutoZone will post 130.36 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

AutoZone Company Profile

(Free Report

AutoZone, Inc retails and distributes automotive replacement parts and accessories. The company offers various products for cars, sport utility vehicles, vans, and light trucks, including new and remanufactured automotive hard parts, maintenance items, accessories, and non-automotive products. Its products include A/C compressors, batteries and accessories, bearings, belts and hoses, calipers, chassis, clutches, CV axles, engines, fuel pumps, fuses, ignition and lighting products, mufflers, radiators, starters and alternators, thermostats, and water pumps, as well as tire repairs.

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Wake Forest Bancshares (OTCMKTS:WAKE  Free Report) is one of 275 publicly-traded companies in the BanksRegional industry, but how does it compare to its competitors? We will compare Wake Forest Bancshares to similar companies based on the strength of its profitability, earnings, risk, valuation, institutional ownership, analyst recommendations and dividends.

Earnings and Valuation

This table compares Wake Forest Bancshares and its competitors gross revenue, earnings per share and valuation.

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Gross Revenue Net Income Price/Earnings Ratio Wake Forest Bancshares N/A N/A 28.28 Wake Forest Bancshares Competitors $2.87 billion $698.34 million 260.33

Wake Forest Bancshares competitors have higher revenue and earnings than Wake Forest Bancshares. Wake Forest Bancshares is trading at a lower price-to-earnings ratio than its competitors, indicating that it is currently more affordable than other companies in its industry.

Dividends

Insider and Institutional Ownership

Wake Forest Bancshares pays an annual dividend of $0.44 per share and has a dividend yield of 1.4%. Wake Forest Bancshares pays out 39.4% of its earnings in the form of a dividend. As a group, BanksRegional companies pay a dividend yield of 13.3% and pay out 18.8% of their earnings in the form of a dividend. Wake Forest Bancshares lags its competitors as a dividend stock, given its lower dividend yield and higher payout ratio.

32.8% of shares of all BanksRegional companies are held by institutional investors. 7.1% of Wake Forest Bancshares shares are held by insiders. Comparatively, 15.2% of shares of all BanksRegional companies are held by insiders. Strong institutional ownership is an indication that endowments, large money managers and hedge funds believe a company is poised for long-term growth.

Analyst Recommendations

This is a summary of current ratings and recommmendations for Wake Forest Bancshares and its competitors, as reported by MarketBeat.

Sell Ratings Hold Ratings Buy Ratings Strong Buy Ratings Rating Score Wake Forest Bancshares 0 0 0 0 N/A Wake Forest Bancshares Competitors 1060 3063 3178 26 2.30

As a group, BanksRegional companies have a potential upside of 336.47%. Given Wake Forest Bancshares competitors higher probable upside, analysts plainly believe Wake Forest Bancshares has less favorable growth aspects than its competitors.

Profitability

This table compares Wake Forest Bancshares and its competitors net margins, return on equity and return on assets.

Net Margins Return on Equity Return on Assets Wake Forest Bancshares N/A N/A N/A Wake Forest Bancshares Competitors 34.06% 10.59% 0.93%

Summary

Wake Forest Bancshares competitors beat Wake Forest Bancshares on 10 of the 10 factors compared.

Wake Forest Bancshares Company Profile

(Free Report)

Wake Forest Bancshares, Inc., (OTC: WAKE) parent company of Wake Forest Federal Savings and Loan Association. Based in Wake Forest, North Carolina since 1922, the Company conducts business as Wake Forest Federal from its office in Wake Forest, (Wake County), North Carolina. Wake Forest Bancshares, Inc. operates as a subsidiary of Wake Forest Bancorp, M.H.C.

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Oversea-Chinese Banking (OTCMKTS:OVCHF  Free Report) is one of 279 publicly-traded companies in the BanksRegional industry, but how does it weigh in compared to its peers? We will compare Oversea-Chinese Banking to related businesses based on the strength of its valuation, profitability, dividends, institutional ownership, analyst recommendations, risk and earnings.

Dividends

Oversea-Chinese Banking pays an annual dividend of $0.35 per share and has a dividend yield of 3.8%. Oversea-Chinese Banking pays out 33.1% of its earnings in the form of a dividend. As a group, BanksRegional companies pay a dividend yield of 13.1% and pay out 18.8% of their earnings in the form of a dividend. Oversea-Chinese Banking lags its peers as a dividend stock, given its lower dividend yield and higher payout ratio.

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Analyst Ratings

This is a summary of current ratings and target prices for Oversea-Chinese Banking and its peers, as provided by MarketBeat.

Sell Ratings Hold Ratings Buy Ratings Strong Buy Ratings Rating Score Oversea-Chinese Banking 0 0 0 0 N/A Oversea-Chinese Banking Competitors 1115 3519 3325 38 2.29

Institutional & Insider Ownership

As a group, BanksRegional companies have a potential upside of 317.31%. Given Oversea-Chinese Bankings peers higher probable upside, analysts clearly believe Oversea-Chinese Banking has less favorable growth aspects than its peers.

12.5% of Oversea-Chinese Banking shares are owned by institutional investors. Comparatively, 35.8% of shares of all BanksRegional companies are owned by institutional investors. 15.8% of shares of all BanksRegional companies are owned by insiders. Strong institutional ownership is an indication that endowments, large money managers and hedge funds believe a stock will outperform the market over the long term.

Valuation and Earnings

This table compares Oversea-Chinese Banking and its peers revenue, earnings per share (EPS) and valuation.

Gross Revenue Net Income Price/Earnings Ratio Oversea-Chinese Banking N/A N/A 8.71 Oversea-Chinese Banking Competitors $470.80 billion $852.44 million 249.49

Oversea-Chinese Bankings peers have higher revenue and earnings than Oversea-Chinese Banking. Oversea-Chinese Banking 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.

Profitability

This table compares Oversea-Chinese Banking and its peers net margins, return on equity and return on assets.

Net Margins Return on Equity Return on Assets Oversea-Chinese Banking N/A N/A N/A Oversea-Chinese Banking Competitors 33.73% 10.67% 0.94%

Summary

Oversea-Chinese Banking peers beat Oversea-Chinese Banking on 10 of the 10 factors compared.

Oversea-Chinese Banking Company Profile

(Free Report)

Oversea-Chinese Banking Corporation Limited engages in the provision of financial services in Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, Greater China, rest of the Asia Pacific, and internationally. The company's Global Consumer/Private Banking segment provides products and services to individual customers, including checking accounts, and savings and fixed deposits; housing and other personal loans; credit cards; wealth management products consisting of unit trusts, banc assurance products, and structured deposits; and brokerage services. This segment also offers investment advice and portfolio management, estate and trust planning, and wealth structuring services for high-net-worth individuals. Its Global Wholesale Banking segment provides long-term project financing, short-term credit, working capital, and trade financing; customized and structured equity-linked financing products; cash management and custodian services; capital market solutions; corporate finance and advisory banking services; and treasury products. This segment serves corporates, public sector, and small and medium enterprises. The company's Global Treasury and Markets segment is involved in the foreign exchange activities, money market operations, and fixed income and derivatives trading, as well as structured treasury products and financial solutions. Its Insurance segment provides fund management services, and life and general insurance products. The company's Others segment is involved in property and investment holding activities. Oversea-Chinese Banking Corporation Limited was founded in 1912 and is headquartered in Singapore.

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First Horizon (NYSE:FHN  Free Report) and Svenska Handelsbanken AB (publ) (OTCMKTS:SVNLY  Free Report) are both finance companies, but which is the superior stock? We will contrast the two businesses based on the strength of their risk, earnings, dividends, analyst recommendations, institutional ownership, valuation and profitability.

Institutional and Insider Ownership

78.8% of First Horizon shares are owned by institutional investors. Comparatively, 0.2% of Svenska Handelsbanken AB (publ) shares are owned by institutional investors. 1.6% of First Horizon shares are owned by company insiders. Strong institutional ownership is an indication that hedge funds, endowments and large money managers believe a stock will outperform the market over the long term.

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Profitability

This table compares First Horizon and Svenska Handelsbanken AB (publ)s net margins, return on equity and return on assets.

Net Margins Return on Equity Return on Assets First Horizon 24.76% 13.53% 1.26% Svenska Handelsbanken AB (publ) 33.03% 10.93% 0.56%

Valuation and Earnings

Gross Revenue Price/Sales Ratio Net Income Earnings Per Share Price/Earnings Ratio First Horizon $3.27 billion 1.86 $900.00 million $1.62 6.96 Svenska Handelsbanken AB (publ) $5.80 billion 2.84 $2.28 billion $0.55 7.58

This table compares First Horizon and Svenska Handelsbanken AB (publ)s revenue, earnings per share (EPS) and valuation.

Svenska Handelsbanken AB (publ) has higher revenue and earnings than First Horizon. First Horizon is trading at a lower price-to-earnings ratio than Svenska Handelsbanken AB (publ), indicating that it is currently the more affordable of the two stocks.

Dividends

First Horizon pays an annual dividend of $0.60 per share and has a dividend yield of 5.3%. Svenska Handelsbanken AB (publ) pays an annual dividend of $0.28 per share and has a dividend yield of 6.7%. First Horizon pays out 37.0% of its earnings in the form of a dividend. Svenska Handelsbanken AB (publ) pays out 50.9% of its earnings in the form of a dividend. Both companies have healthy payout ratios and should be able to cover their dividend payments with earnings for the next several years.

Risk and Volatility

First Horizon has a beta of 0.89, indicating that its share price is 11% less volatile than the S&P 500. Comparatively, Svenska Handelsbanken AB (publ) has a beta of 0.79, indicating that its share price is 21% less volatile than the S&P 500.

Analyst Ratings

This is a breakdown of current ratings and price targets for First Horizon and Svenska Handelsbanken AB (publ), as provided by MarketBeat.com.

Sell Ratings Hold Ratings Buy Ratings Strong Buy Ratings Rating Score First Horizon 0 3 3 0 2.50 Svenska Handelsbanken AB (publ) 1 2 3 0 2.33

First Horizon currently has a consensus target price of $19.13, indicating a potential upside of 69.70%. Svenska Handelsbanken AB (publ) has a consensus target price of $100.25, indicating a potential upside of 2,304.08%. Given Svenska Handelsbanken AB (publ)s higher possible upside, analysts clearly believe Svenska Handelsbanken AB (publ) is more favorable than First Horizon.

Summary

First Horizon beats Svenska Handelsbanken AB (publ) on 8 of the 15 factors compared between the two stocks.

About First Horizon

(Free Report)

First Horizon Corporation operates as the bank holding company for First Horizon Bank that provides various financial services. The company operates through three segments: Regional Banking, Specialty Banking, and Corporate. It offers general banking services for consumers, businesses, financial institutions, and governments. The company provides underwriting services for bank-eligible securities and other fixed-income securities by financial subsidiaries; sells loans and derivatives; and offers advisory services. In addition, it offers commercial and business banking for business enterprises, consumer banking, and private client and wealth management services; and capital markets, professional commercial real estate, mortgage warehouse and asset-based lending, franchise and equipment finance, and corporate and correspondent banking. Further, the company provides transaction processing services including check clearing services and remittance processing, credit cards, investment, and sale of mutual fund and retail insurances, as well as trust, fiduciary, and agency services. First Horizon Corporation was founded in 1864 and is headquartered in Memphis, Tennessee.

About Svenska Handelsbanken AB (publ)

(Free Report)

Svenska Handelsbanken AB (publ) provides various banking products and services for private and corporate customers primarily in Sweden, the United Kingdom, Norway, the Netherlands, the United States, Luxembourg, China, Germany, France, and Poland. The company offers savings, transactions, business, currency, and investment accounts, as well as accounts for cash pool, and forestry and agriculture; mortgage and committed loans, and private loans; mutual funds; pension products; credit and debit cards; and payment and reconciliation services. It also provides financing for investments, such as equipment, cars, computers, and other inventories, as well as vehicle and real estate financing services; green loans and advisor services; investment and other financing services; medical care, group and health, and travel insurance products; forestry and farming banking products; and online and mobile banking services. In addition, the company offers transaction, trade finance, cash management, risk management, and foreign exchange services, as well as various banking services for children and young people. Svenska Handelsbanken AB (publ) was incorporated in 1871 and is headquartered in Stockholm, Sweden.

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Davis Rea LTD. cut its holdings in Bank of America Co. (NYSE:BAC) by 4.3% during the 1st quarter, Holdings Channel.com reports. The fund owned 256,841 shares of the financial services providers stock after selling 11,522 shares during the quarter. Bank of America accounts for about 4.4% of Davis Rea LTD.s portfolio, making the stock its 7th biggest position. Davis Rea LTD.s holdings in Bank of America were worth $7,346,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

Other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also recently bought and sold shares of the company. Legend Financial Advisors Inc. increased its stake in Bank of America by 6,772.7% in the 4th quarter. Legend Financial Advisors Inc. now owns 756 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $25,000 after purchasing an additional 745 shares in the last quarter. Tanglewood Legacy Advisors LLC purchased a new position in Bank of America in the 4th quarter worth about $26,000. Grey Fox Wealth Advisors LLC purchased a new position in Bank of America in the 4th quarter worth about $35,000. Mendota Financial Group LLC purchased a new position in Bank of America in the 4th quarter worth about $36,000. Finally, McElhenny Sheffield Capital Management LLC purchased a new position in Bank of America during the 4th quarter valued at about $38,000. 67.34% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors.

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Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

BAC has been the topic of several research analyst reports. The Goldman Sachs Group lowered their target price on Bank of America from $39.00 to $35.00 and set a buy rating on the stock in a research note on Monday, April 3rd. Citigroup lowered their target price on Bank of America from $38.00 to $33.00 and set a neutral rating on the stock in a research note on Wednesday, April 19th. StockNews.com initiated coverage on Bank of America in a research note on Thursday, May 18th. They set a hold rating on the stock. Oppenheimer lifted their target price on Bank of America from $44.00 to $47.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a research note on Wednesday, April 19th. Finally, Royal Bank of Canada boosted their price target on Bank of America from $34.00 to $35.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a research note on Wednesday, April 19th. Two equities research analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, seven have assigned a hold rating and ten have assigned a buy rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, Bank of America currently has an average rating of Hold and an average target price of $36.77.

Bank of America Stock Up 0.1 %

Shares of BAC stock opened at $28.69 on Friday. Bank of America Co. has a 12 month low of $26.32 and a 12 month high of $38.60. The firm has a market cap of $228.63 billion, a PE ratio of 8.62, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 1.21 and a beta of 1.37. The stock has a 50 day moving average of $28.41 and a 200-day moving average of $30.95. The company has a quick ratio of 0.82, a current ratio of 0.82 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.13.

Bank of America (NYSE:BAC  Free Report) last issued its earnings results on Tuesday, April 18th. The financial services provider reported $0.94 EPS for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $0.83 by $0.11. The business had revenue of $26.26 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $25.28 billion. Bank of America had a return on equity of 11.72% and a net margin of 21.85%. Bank of Americas revenue was up 13.0% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period in the prior year, the company posted $0.80 earnings per share. On average, equities analysts predict that Bank of America Co. will post 3.4 EPS for the current year.

Bank of America Dividend Announcement

The business also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, June 30th. Shareholders of record on Friday, June 2nd were given a $0.22 dividend. This represents a $0.88 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 3.07%. The ex-dividend date was Thursday, June 1st. Bank of Americas dividend payout ratio (DPR) is 26.43%.

Bank of America Profile

(Free Report)

Bank of America Corporation, through its subsidiaries, provides banking and financial products and services for individual consumers, small and middle-market businesses, institutional investors, large corporations, and governments worldwide. Its Consumer Banking segment offers traditional and money market savings accounts, certificates of deposit and IRAs, noninterest-and interest-bearing checking accounts, and investment accounts and products; and credit and debit cards, residential mortgages, and home equity loans, as well as direct and indirect loans, such as automotive, recreational vehicle, and consumer personal loans.

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DnB Asset Management AS lifted its holdings in The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc. (NYSE:GS  Free Report) by 14.7% in the 1st quarter, according to the company in its most recent 13F filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The institutional investor owned 133,709 shares of the investment management companys stock after purchasing an additional 17,117 shares during the period. DnB Asset Management ASs holdings in The Goldman Sachs Group were worth $43,738,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission.

Other institutional investors and hedge funds have also recently modified their holdings of the company. Tower View Investment Management & Research LLC purchased a new position in shares of The Goldman Sachs Group in the 4th quarter valued at about $27,000. Larson Financial Group LLC increased its stake in shares of The Goldman Sachs Group by 224.0% in the 4th quarter. Larson Financial Group LLC now owns 81 shares of the investment management companys stock valued at $28,000 after purchasing an additional 56 shares in the last quarter. Accurate Wealth Management LLC purchased a new position in shares of The Goldman Sachs Group in the 4th quarter valued at about $31,000. Sound Income Strategies LLC increased its stake in shares of The Goldman Sachs Group by 109.3% in the 4th quarter. Sound Income Strategies LLC now owns 90 shares of the investment management companys stock valued at $31,000 after purchasing an additional 47 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Elequin Securities LLC purchased a new position in shares of The Goldman Sachs Group in the 4th quarter valued at about $32,000. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 76.90% of the companys stock.

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The Goldman Sachs Group Stock Down 0.2 %

The Goldman Sachs Group stock opened at $322.54 on Friday. The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc. has a twelve month low of $277.84 and a twelve month high of $389.58. The stocks fifty day simple moving average is $328.36 and its 200-day simple moving average is $339.48. The company has a current ratio of 0.81, a quick ratio of 0.81 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 2.25. The firm has a market capitalization of $107.23 billion, a P/E ratio of 11.48, a P/E/G ratio of 0.88 and a beta of 1.41.

The Goldman Sachs Group Dividend Announcement

The Goldman Sachs Group ( NYSE:GS Free Report ) last posted its quarterly earnings data on Tuesday, April 18th. The investment management company reported $8.79 earnings per share for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $8.14 by $0.65. The Goldman Sachs Group had a return on equity of 9.84% and a net margin of 13.23%. The business had revenue of $12.22 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $12.66 billion. During the same quarter in the prior year, the company earned $10.76 earnings per share. The companys revenue was down 5.5% on a year-over-year basis. As a group, equities analysts expect that The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc. will post 32.14 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Thursday, June 29th. Stockholders of record on Thursday, June 1st were given a dividend of $2.50 per share. This represents a $10.00 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 3.10%. The ex-dividend date was Wednesday, May 31st. The Goldman Sachs Groups dividend payout ratio is currently 35.60%.

Insider Activity at The Goldman Sachs Group

In other The Goldman Sachs Group news, Treasurer Philip R. Berlinski sold 3,750 shares of the firms stock in a transaction on Thursday, April 20th. The stock was sold at an average price of $338.10, for a total value of $1,267,875.00. Following the sale, the treasurer now directly owns 21,366 shares in the company, valued at $7,223,844.60. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which can be accessed through this link. In other The Goldman Sachs Group news, major shareholder Goldman Sachs Group Inc sold 9,000,000 shares of the firms stock in a transaction on Monday, June 12th. The stock was sold at an average price of $11.73, for a total value of $105,570,000.00. Following the sale, the insider now directly owns 51,676,439 shares in the company, valued at $606,164,629.47. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which can be accessed through this link. Also, Treasurer Philip R. Berlinski sold 3,750 shares of the firms stock in a transaction on Thursday, April 20th. The shares were sold at an average price of $338.10, for a total value of $1,267,875.00. Following the completion of the sale, the treasurer now owns 21,366 shares in the company, valued at $7,223,844.60. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Insiders have sold 33,833,500 shares of company stock valued at $646,620,506 over the last quarter. 0.54% of the stock is owned by insiders.

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

GS has been the subject of several research reports. Credit Suisse Group reiterated an outperform rating and set a $410.00 price objective on shares of The Goldman Sachs Group in a research note on Tuesday, April 11th. Bank of America boosted their price objective on The Goldman Sachs Group from $384.00 to $425.00 in a research note on Thursday, March 9th. UBS Group upgraded The Goldman Sachs Group from a neutral rating to a buy rating in a research note on Tuesday, April 11th. JPMorgan Chase & Co. cut their price objective on The Goldman Sachs Group from $430.00 to $415.00 and set an overweight rating for the company in a research note on Wednesday, April 19th. Finally, Wells Fargo & Company cut their price objective on The Goldman Sachs Group from $420.00 to $390.00 and set an overweight rating for the company in a research note on Monday, April 3rd. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, six have given a hold rating and ten have assigned a buy rating to the company. According to MarketBeat.com, The Goldman Sachs Group presently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $387.95.

The Goldman Sachs Group Company Profile

(Free Report)

The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc, a financial institution, provides a range of financial services for corporations, financial institutions, governments, and individuals worldwide. It operates through Global Banking & Markets, Asset & Wealth Management, and Platform Solutions segments. The Global Banking & Markets segment provides financial advisory services, including strategic advisory assignments related to mergers and acquisitions, divestitures, corporate defense activities, restructurings, and spin-offs; and relationship lending, and acquisition financing, as well as secured lending, through structured credit and asset-backed lending and involved in resale agreements.

Further Reading

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DnB Asset Management AS cut its position in Eli Lilly and Company (NYSE:LLY  Free Report) by 1.7% during the 1st quarter, according to the company in its most recent filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The fund owned 463,652 shares of the companys stock after selling 8,233 shares during the quarter. Eli Lilly and Company comprises 1.0% of DnB Asset Management ASs holdings, making the stock its 16th biggest position. DnB Asset Management ASs holdings in Eli Lilly and Company were worth $159,227,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

Several other hedge funds have also recently bought and sold shares of the company. Hexagon Capital Partners LLC raised its position in shares of Eli Lilly and Company by 4.6% during the 4th quarter. Hexagon Capital Partners LLC now owns 633 shares of the companys stock worth $232,000 after buying an additional 28 shares in the last quarter. Wedge Capital Management L L P NC grew its stake in shares of Eli Lilly and Company by 1.9% in the 4th quarter. Wedge Capital Management L L P NC now owns 1,485 shares of the companys stock worth $543,000 after purchasing an additional 28 shares during the last quarter. Aries Wealth Management grew its stake in shares of Eli Lilly and Company by 0.8% in the 1st quarter. Aries Wealth Management now owns 3,701 shares of the companys stock worth $1,271,000 after purchasing an additional 28 shares during the last quarter. Newbridge Financial Services Group Inc. grew its stake in shares of Eli Lilly and Company by 7.6% in the 1st quarter. Newbridge Financial Services Group Inc. now owns 397 shares of the companys stock worth $136,000 after purchasing an additional 28 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Platform Technology Partners grew its stake in shares of Eli Lilly and Company by 1.6% in the 4th quarter. Platform Technology Partners now owns 1,860 shares of the companys stock worth $681,000 after purchasing an additional 29 shares during the last quarter. 87.25% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors.

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Insider Buying and Selling at Eli Lilly and Company

In other Eli Lilly and Company news, major shareholder Lilly Endowment Inc sold 210,000 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction dated Monday, April 3rd. The stock was sold at an average price of $350.49, for a total value of $73,602,900.00. Following the completion of the sale, the insider now owns 102,333,810 shares of the companys stock, valued at $35,866,977,066.90. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through this link. In other Eli Lilly and Company news, major shareholder Lilly Endowment Inc sold 210,000 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction dated Monday, April 3rd. The stock was sold at an average price of $350.49, for a total value of $73,602,900.00. Following the completion of the sale, the insider now owns 102,333,810 shares of the companys stock, valued at $35,866,977,066.90. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through this link. Also, EVP Johna Norton sold 1,647 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction dated Wednesday, June 14th. The stock was sold at an average price of $444.29, for a total value of $731,745.63. Following the completion of the sale, the executive vice president now directly owns 31,761 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $14,111,094.69. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Insiders have sold 1,086,543 shares of company stock worth $445,911,136 over the last 90 days. 0.13% of the stock is currently owned by corporate insiders.

Eli Lilly and Company Stock Performance

Shares of NYSE LLY opened at $468.98 on Friday. The businesss 50-day moving average price is $434.32 and its two-hundred day moving average price is $377.22. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.67, a current ratio of 1.30 and a quick ratio of 1.02. Eli Lilly and Company has a one year low of $296.32 and a one year high of $469.87. The company has a market capitalization of $445.19 billion, a P/E ratio of 74.56, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 2.13 and a beta of 0.36.

Eli Lilly and Company (NYSE:LLY  Free Report) last issued its earnings results on Thursday, April 27th. The company reported $1.62 EPS for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of $1.73 by ($0.11). Eli Lilly and Company had a net margin of 20.54% and a return on equity of 61.42%. The firm had revenue of $6.96 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $6.87 billion. During the same quarter last year, the firm earned $2.62 EPS. The businesss revenue for the quarter was down 10.9% compared to the same quarter last year. Analysts anticipate that Eli Lilly and Company will post 8.78 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

Eli Lilly and Company Announces Dividend

The company also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, September 8th. Shareholders of record on Tuesday, August 15th will be paid a $1.13 dividend. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Monday, August 14th. This represents a $4.52 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 0.96%. Eli Lilly and Companys dividend payout ratio (DPR) is currently 71.86%.

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

LLY has been the topic of several recent research reports. BMO Capital Markets lifted their price objective on shares of Eli Lilly and Company from $430.00 to $505.00 in a research note on Thursday, May 4th. Credit Suisse Group lifted their target price on shares of Eli Lilly and Company from $420.00 to $490.00 in a research report on Thursday, May 4th. StockNews.com downgraded shares of Eli Lilly and Company from a strong-buy rating to a buy rating in a research report on Monday, June 12th. Cantor Fitzgerald lifted their target price on shares of Eli Lilly and Company from $485.00 to $550.00 in a research report on Tuesday, June 27th. Finally, 3M reissued a maintains rating on shares of Eli Lilly and Company in a research report on Friday, April 28th. One research analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, two have assigned a hold rating and thirteen have assigned a buy rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat, the stock presently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $437.90.

About Eli Lilly and Company

(Free Report)

Eli Lilly and Company discovers, develops, and markets human pharmaceuticals worldwide. It offers Basaglar, Humalog, Humalog Mix 75/25, Humalog U-100, Humalog U-200, Humalog Mix 50/50, insulin lispro, insulin lispro protamine, insulin lispro mix 75/25, Humulin, Humulin 70/30, Humulin N, Humulin R, and Humulin U-500 for diabetes; and Jardiance, Trajenta, and Trulicity for type 2 diabetes.

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Enel Generacion Chile (OTCMKTS:EOCCY  Free Report) and FirstEnergy (NYSE:FE  Free Report) are both utilities companies, but which is the better investment? We will compare the two businesses based on the strength of their profitability, earnings, analyst recommendations, valuation, institutional ownership, dividends and risk.

Profitability

This table compares Enel Generacion Chile and FirstEnergys net margins, return on equity and return on assets.

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Net Margins Return on Equity Return on Assets Enel Generacion Chile -13.90% -37.57% -20.67% FirstEnergy 3.23% 12.60% 3.03%

Insider & Institutional Ownership

85.4% of FirstEnergy shares are held by institutional investors. 0.1% of FirstEnergy shares are held by company insiders. Strong institutional ownership is an indication that hedge funds, large money managers and endowments believe a stock is poised for long-term growth.

Valuation & Earnings

Gross Revenue Price/Sales Ratio Net Income Earnings Per Share Price/Earnings Ratio Enel Generacion Chile $2.04 billion 1.26 $274.88 million N/A N/A FirstEnergy $12.46 billion 1.79 $406.00 million $0.71 54.76

This table compares Enel Generacion Chile and FirstEnergys gross revenue, earnings per share (EPS) and valuation.

FirstEnergy has higher revenue and earnings than Enel Generacion Chile.

Volatility and Risk

Enel Generacion Chile has a beta of 1.07, indicating that its stock price is 7% more volatile than the S&P 500. Comparatively, FirstEnergy has a beta of 0.44, indicating that its stock price is 56% less volatile than the S&P 500.

Dividends

Enel Generacion Chile pays an annual dividend of $1.75 per share and has a dividend yield of 18.6%. FirstEnergy pays an annual dividend of $1.56 per share and has a dividend yield of 4.0%. FirstEnergy pays out 219.7% of its earnings in the form of a dividend, suggesting it may not have sufficient earnings to cover its dividend payment in the future.

Analyst Ratings

This is a summary of current ratings and target prices for Enel Generacion Chile and FirstEnergy, as reported by MarketBeat.

Sell Ratings Hold Ratings Buy Ratings Strong Buy Ratings Rating Score Enel Generacion Chile 0 0 0 0 N/A FirstEnergy 1 4 3 0 2.25

FirstEnergy has a consensus price target of $43.00, indicating a potential upside of 10.60%. Given FirstEnergys higher possible upside, analysts clearly believe FirstEnergy is more favorable than Enel Generacion Chile.

Summary

FirstEnergy beats Enel Generacion Chile on 11 of the 14 factors compared between the two stocks.

About Enel Generacion Chile

(Free Report)

Enel GeneraciAn Chile S.A., an electric utility company, engages in the generation, transmission, and distribution of electricity in Chile. The company generates electricity through hydro, thermal, and wind power sources. As of December 31, 2019, it had 6,114 megawatts of installed capacity with 28 generation facilities and a total of 110 generation units. The company also supplies its electricity to regulated electricity distribution companies; unregulated industrial firms primarily in the mining, pulp, and steel sectors; and the pool market. Further it provides engineering consulting services. The company was formerly known as Empresa Nacional de Electricidad S.A. and changed its name to Enel GeneraciAn Chile S.A. in November 2016. The company was founded in 1943 and is headquartered in Santiago, Chile. Enel GeneraciAn Chile S.A. is a subsidiary of Enel Chile S.A.

About FirstEnergy

(Free Report)

FirstEnergy Corp., through its subsidiaries, generates, transmits, and distributes electricity in the United States. It operates through Regulated Distribution and Regulated Transmission segments. The company owns and operates coal-fired, nuclear, hydroelectric, wind, and solar power generating facilities. It operates 24,080 circuit miles of overhead and underground transmission lines; and electric distribution systems, including 274,518 miles of overhead pole line and underground conduit carrying primary, secondary, and street lighting circuits. The company serves approximately 6 million customers in Ohio, Pennsylvania, West Virginia, Maryland, New Jersey, and New York. FirstEnergy Corp. was incorporated in 1996 and is headquartered in Akron, Ohio.

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Enzon Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (OTCMKTS:ENZN  Free Report) was the recipient of a significant drop in short interest during the month of June. As of June 15th, there was short interest totalling 2,200 shares, a drop of 33.3% from the May 31st total of 3,300 shares. Based on an average daily trading volume, of 41,600 shares, the days-to-cover ratio is currently 0.1 days.

Enzon Pharmaceuticals Price Performance

ENZN traded up $0.01 during trading on Friday, reaching $0.20. The companys stock had a trading volume of 15,012 shares, compared to its average volume of 31,734. Enzon Pharmaceuticals has a 52-week low of $0.12 and a 52-week high of $0.45. The companys fifty day moving average price is $0.17 and its 200-day moving average price is $0.22.

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Enzon Pharmaceuticals Company Profile

(Free Report)

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Enzon Pharmaceuticals, Inc, together with its subsidiaries, engages in marketing drug products. The company's marketed drug product is PegIntron. It also has a marketing agreement relating to Vicineum drug. The company was founded in 1981 and is headquartered in Cranford, New Jersey.

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Euro Manganese Inc. (OTCMKTS:EUMNF  Free Report) was the recipient of a large decrease in short interest in the month of June. As of June 15th, there was short interest totalling 16,700 shares, a decrease of 44.9% from the May 31st total of 30,300 shares. Based on an average daily trading volume, of 91,600 shares, the days-to-cover ratio is presently 0.2 days.

Euro Manganese Price Performance

Shares of OTCMKTS:EUMNF remained flat at $0.11 during midday trading on Friday. 178,000 shares of the stock were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 33,909. The business has a 50-day moving average of $0.14 and a 200 day moving average of $0.18. Euro Manganese has a 12-month low of $0.11 and a 12-month high of $0.35.

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About Euro Manganese

(Free Report)

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Euro Manganese Inc engages in the evaluation, exploration, and development of mineral assets. Its principal property is the 100% owned Chvaletice manganese project, which is involved in the re-processing of a manganese deposit hosted in historic mine tailings located to the east of Prague, the Czech Republic.

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Mechanics Bank (OTC:MCHB  Free Report) is one of 270 public companies in the BanksRegional industry, but how does it weigh in compared to its rivals? We will compare Mechanics Bank to related companies based on the strength of its risk, profitability, valuation, dividends, analyst recommendations, earnings and institutional ownership.

Institutional & Insider Ownership

2.4% of Mechanics Bank shares are owned by institutional investors. Comparatively, 30.0% of shares of all BanksRegional companies are owned by institutional investors. 15.8% of shares of all BanksRegional companies are owned by insiders. Strong institutional ownership is an indication that endowments, hedge funds and large money managers believe a stock will outperform the market over the long term.

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Profitability

This table compares Mechanics Bank and its rivals net margins, return on equity and return on assets.

Net Margins Return on Equity Return on Assets Mechanics Bank N/A N/A N/A Mechanics Bank Competitors 34.92% 10.27% 0.93%

Dividends

Valuation & Earnings

Mechanics Bank pays an annual dividend of $300.00 per share and has a dividend yield of 1.3%. Mechanics Bank pays out 20.0% of its earnings in the form of a dividend. As a group, BanksRegional companies pay a dividend yield of 13.3% and pay out 18.7% of their earnings in the form of a dividend. Mechanics Bank lags its rivals as a dividend stock, given its lower dividend yield and higher payout ratio.

This table compares Mechanics Bank and its rivals top-line revenue, earnings per share (EPS) and valuation.

Gross Revenue Net Income Price/Earnings Ratio Mechanics Bank N/A N/A 15.48 Mechanics Bank Competitors $2.56 billion $707.14 million 268.28

Mechanics Banks rivals have higher revenue and earnings than Mechanics Bank. Mechanics Bank is trading at a lower price-to-earnings ratio than its rivals, indicating that it is currently more affordable than other companies in its industry.

Analyst Recommendations

This is a breakdown of recent ratings and price targets for Mechanics Bank and its rivals, as provided by MarketBeat.com.

Sell Ratings Hold Ratings Buy Ratings Strong Buy Ratings Rating Score Mechanics Bank 0 0 0 0 N/A Mechanics Bank Competitors 1032 2924 2988 25 2.29

As a group, BanksRegional companies have a potential upside of 341.29%. Given Mechanics Banks rivals higher probable upside, analysts clearly believe Mechanics Bank has less favorable growth aspects than its rivals.

Summary

Mechanics Bank rivals beat Mechanics Bank on 10 of the 10 factors compared.

Mechanics Bank Company Profile

(Free Report)

Mechanics Bank provides various financial services for individuals, families, small businesses, municipalities, and non-profits in communities in Greater San Francisco, Sacramento, Los Angeles, and San Diego areas and throughout the Central Valley in California. The company offers checking and savings accounts. It also provides home and auto loans; term loans and lines of credit, multi-family lending, commercial real estate loans, owner-occupied real estate loans, equipment financing, and trade services and letters of credit; and small business administration loans. In addition, the company offers credit and debit cards; payable and receivable solutions, fraud prevention, and cash management services; merchant and payroll services, paycheck protection program solutions, and workplace benefit plans; foreign currency, cashier's checks, wire transfers, overdraft, deposit and treasury, trust and estate, investment and asset management, retirement planning, and wealth management services; and online and mobile banking services. Mechanics Bank was founded in 1905 and is headquartered in Walnut Creek, California.

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Grupo Financiero Banorte (OTCMKTS:GBOOF  Free Report) is one of 270 public companies in the BanksRegional industry, but how does it compare to its rivals? We will compare Grupo Financiero Banorte to similar businesses based on the strength of its risk, valuation, earnings, profitability, dividends, analyst recommendations and institutional ownership.

Profitability

This table compares Grupo Financiero Banorte and its rivals net margins, return on equity and return on assets.

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Net Margins Return on Equity Return on Assets Grupo Financiero Banorte N/A N/A N/A Grupo Financiero Banorte Competitors 34.92% 10.27% 0.93%

Analyst Ratings

This is a summary of current ratings and target prices for Grupo Financiero Banorte and its rivals, as provided by MarketBeat.

Sell Ratings Hold Ratings Buy Ratings Strong Buy Ratings Rating Score Grupo Financiero Banorte 0 0 0 0 N/A Grupo Financiero Banorte Competitors 1032 2924 2988 25 2.29

Insider and Institutional Ownership

As a group, BanksRegional companies have a potential upside of 341.29%. Given Grupo Financiero Banortes rivals higher possible upside, analysts clearly believe Grupo Financiero Banorte has less favorable growth aspects than its rivals.

40.8% of Grupo Financiero Banorte shares are held by institutional investors. Comparatively, 30.0% of shares of all BanksRegional companies are held by institutional investors. 15.8% of shares of all BanksRegional companies are held by company insiders. Strong institutional ownership is an indication that endowments, hedge funds and large money managers believe a stock is poised for long-term growth.

Earnings & Valuation

This table compares Grupo Financiero Banorte and its rivals gross revenue, earnings per share and valuation.

Gross Revenue Net Income Price/Earnings Ratio Grupo Financiero Banorte N/A N/A 1.52 Grupo Financiero Banorte Competitors $2.56 billion $707.14 million 268.28

Grupo Financiero Banortes rivals have higher revenue and earnings than Grupo Financiero Banorte. Grupo Financiero Banorte is trading at a lower price-to-earnings ratio than its rivals, indicating that it is currently more affordable than other companies in its industry.

Dividends

Grupo Financiero Banorte pays an annual dividend of $0.98 per share and has a dividend yield of 11.5%. Grupo Financiero Banorte pays out 17.5% of its earnings in the form of a dividend. As a group, BanksRegional companies pay a dividend yield of 13.3% and pay out 18.7% of their earnings in the form of a dividend.

Summary

Grupo Financiero Banorte rivals beat Grupo Financiero Banorte on 8 of the 10 factors compared.

Grupo Financiero Banorte Company Profile

(Free Report)

Grupo Financiero Banorte, S.A.B. de C.V., through its subsidiaries, provides banking and financial products and services in Mexico. The company offers payroll accounts and credit cards; car, mortgage, payroll, and personal credit banorte; and savings and investment products. It also provides insurance products, including life, home, auto, health, savings, credit card, mobile equipment, and mortgage credit insurance; foreign exchange services; and online and mobile banking services. Grupo Financiero Banorte, S.A.B. de C.V. was founded in 1899 and is based in Mexico City, Mexico.

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Hitachi, Ltd. (OTCMKTS:HTHIY  Free Report) saw a significant growth in short interest in the month of June. As of June 15th, there was short interest totalling 11,400 shares, a growth of 132.7% from the May 31st total of 4,900 shares. Based on an average daily volume of 77,400 shares, the short-interest ratio is presently 0.1 days.

Hitachi Stock Performance

Shares of Hitachi stock traded up $1.28 during trading on Friday, hitting $124.47. 16,608 shares of the stock were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 29,571. The stocks fifty day moving average is $119.53 and its 200 day moving average is $109.93. The stock has a market cap of $58.38 billion, a PE ratio of 11.93, a P/E/G ratio of 2.09 and a beta of 0.83. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.24, a quick ratio of 0.83 and a current ratio of 1.15. Hitachi has a 12 month low of $83.49 and a 12 month high of $128.48.

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Hitachi (OTCMKTS:HTHIY  Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, April 27th. The conglomerate reported $5.71 EPS for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $5.46 by $0.25. The business had revenue of $20.96 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $17.98 billion. Hitachi had a net margin of 5.98% and a return on equity of 12.42%. As a group, sell-side analysts anticipate that Hitachi will post 8.05 EPS for the current year.

Analyst Ratings Changes

Hitachi Company Profile

Separately, The Goldman Sachs Group initiated coverage on shares of Hitachi in a research report on Thursday, March 16th. They set a conviction-buy rating for the company.

(Free Report)

Hitachi, Ltd. provides information technology, energy, industry, mobility, and smart life solutions in Japan and internationally. The company offers information and telecommunication services, such as internet of things, storage systems, servers, software, ATMs, and scanners for manufacturing, communication, finance, healthcare and life science, energy and transportation, and distribution industries, as well as government and urban sectors; drone platform and unmanned aerial system traffic management solutions; infrastructure information systems; and consulting and system integration services.

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Lenovo Group Limited (OTCMKTS:LNVGF  Free Report) was the target of a significant increase in short interest in June. As of June 15th, there was short interest totalling 22,589,600 shares, an increase of 59.3% from the May 31st total of 14,182,000 shares. Based on an average daily trading volume, of 710,500 shares, the days-to-cover ratio is currently 31.8 days.

Lenovo Group Price Performance

Shares of LNVGF remained flat at $1.07 during midday trading on Friday. The stocks 50-day moving average price is $1.00 and its 200-day moving average price is $0.93. Lenovo Group has a 52-week low of $0.66 and a 52-week high of $1.12.

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About Lenovo Group

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Lenovo Group Limited, an investment holding company, develops, manufactures, and markets technology products and services. It operates through Intelligent Devices Group, Infrastructure Solutions Group, and Solutions and Services Group segments. The company offers commercial and consumer personal computers, as well as servers and workstations; and a family of mobile Internet devices, including tablets and smartphones.

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Midwest Financial Group LLC acquired a new stake in iShares National Muni Bond ETF (NYSEARCA:MUB  Free Report) in the 1st quarter, Holdings Channel.com reports. The institutional investor acquired 7,805 shares of the exchange traded funds stock, valued at approximately $841,000.

Several other hedge funds also recently modified their holdings of MUB. Providence Capital Advisors LLC acquired a new stake in iShares National Muni Bond ETF in the 4th quarter valued at about $25,000. Fortis Capital Advisors LLC acquired a new stake in iShares National Muni Bond ETF in the 4th quarter valued at about $25,000. Morris Financial Concepts Inc. lifted its stake in iShares National Muni Bond ETF by 524.4% in the 4th quarter. Morris Financial Concepts Inc. now owns 256 shares of the exchange traded funds stock valued at $27,000 after purchasing an additional 215 shares during the last quarter. First Manhattan Co. acquired a new stake in iShares National Muni Bond ETF in the 4th quarter valued at about $29,000. Finally, Sound Income Strategies LLC lifted its stake in iShares National Muni Bond ETF by 70.5% in the 4th quarter. Sound Income Strategies LLC now owns 283 shares of the exchange traded funds stock valued at $30,000 after purchasing an additional 117 shares during the last quarter.

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iShares National Muni Bond ETF Stock Performance

Shares of MUB stock opened at $106.73 on Friday. The firm has a 50 day moving average price of $106.61 and a two-hundred day moving average price of $106.76. iShares National Muni Bond ETF has a 12-month low of $101.35 and a 12-month high of $108.82.

About iShares National Muni Bond ETF

iShares National AMT-Free Muni Bond ETF (the Fund), formerly iShares S&P National AMT-Free Municipal Bond Fund, is an exchange-traded fund (ETF). The Fund seeks investment results that correspond generally to the price and yield performance of the S&P National AMT-Free Municipal Bond Index (the Index).

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Want to see what other hedge funds are holding MUB? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for iShares National Muni Bond ETF (NYSEARCA:MUB  Free Report).

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StockNews.com lowered shares of Piedmont Office Realty Trust (NYSE:PDM  Free Report) from a hold rating to a sell rating in a research report report published on Thursday morning.

Piedmont Office Realty Trust Stock Performance

Shares of PDM opened at $7.27 on Thursday. The company has a current ratio of 3.63, a quick ratio of 3.63 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.21. The firm has a market cap of $898.86 million, a PE ratio of 10.54 and a beta of 0.98. The companys 50 day simple moving average is $6.62 and its 200-day simple moving average is $8.04. Piedmont Office Realty Trust has a 12-month low of $5.99 and a 12-month high of $13.82.

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Piedmont Office Realty Trust (NYSE:PDM  Free Report) last announced its earnings results on Monday, May 1st. The real estate investment trust reported ($0.01) earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of $0.46 by ($0.47). Piedmont Office Realty Trust had a return on equity of 4.70% and a net margin of 15.00%. The business had revenue of $142.37 million for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $143.71 million. As a group, equities analysts predict that Piedmont Office Realty Trust will post 1.82 EPS for the current year.

Piedmont Office Realty Trust Dividend Announcement

Hedge Funds Weigh In On Piedmont Office Realty Trust

The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, June 16th. Investors of record on Friday, May 26th were given a $0.21 dividend. The ex-dividend date was Thursday, May 25th. This represents a $0.84 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 11.55%. Piedmont Office Realty Trusts dividend payout ratio (DPR) is 121.74%.

A number of hedge funds and other institutional investors have recently bought and sold shares of PDM. Ronald Blue Trust Inc. grew its position in Piedmont Office Realty Trust by 272.0% in the 4th quarter. Ronald Blue Trust Inc. now owns 2,474 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock valued at $26,000 after buying an additional 1,809 shares during the last quarter. WFA of San Diego LLC purchased a new position in Piedmont Office Realty Trust in the 4th quarter valued at $26,000. Quarry LP grew its position in Piedmont Office Realty Trust by 78.7% in the 1st quarter. Quarry LP now owns 3,871 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock valued at $28,000 after buying an additional 1,705 shares during the last quarter. Parallel Advisors LLC grew its position in Piedmont Office Realty Trust by 181.6% in the 1st quarter. Parallel Advisors LLC now owns 4,840 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock valued at $35,000 after buying an additional 3,121 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Ameritas Advisory Services LLC acquired a new stake in Piedmont Office Realty Trust in the first quarter valued at $43,000. 82.45% of the stock is currently owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

Piedmont Office Realty Trust Company Profile

(Free Report)

Piedmont Office Realty Trust, Inc (NYSE: PDM) is an owner, manager, developer, redeveloper, and operator of high-quality, Class A office properties located primarily in major U.S. Sunbelt markets. Its approximately $5 billion portfolio is currently comprised of approximately 17 million square feet. The Company is a fully integrated, self-managed real estate investment trust (REIT) with local management offices in each of its markets and is investment-grade rated by S&P Global Ratings (BBB) and Moody's (Baa2).

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Cross Timbers Royalty Trust (NYSE:CRT  Free Report) saw a significant increase in short interest in the month of June. As of June 15th, there was short interest totalling 54,000 shares, an increase of 49.6% from the May 31st total of 36,100 shares. Currently, 0.9% of the companys stock are short sold. Based on an average daily trading volume, of 50,300 shares, the short-interest ratio is currently 1.1 days.

Cross Timbers Royalty Trust Stock Performance

Shares of CRT stock traded down $0.59 during trading hours on Friday, reaching $22.03. 25,300 shares of the companys stock were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 45,607. The stocks 50 day moving average is $21.88 and its 200-day moving average is $22.12. Cross Timbers Royalty Trust has a fifty-two week low of $13.20 and a fifty-two week high of $30.40.

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Cross Timbers Royalty Trust (NYSE:CRT  Free Report) last issued its quarterly earnings results on Friday, May 12th. The oil and gas company reported $0.61 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter. The business had revenue of $3.93 million for the quarter. Cross Timbers Royalty Trust had a return on equity of 470.25% and a net margin of 78.44%.

Cross Timbers Royalty Trust Cuts Dividend

Analysts Set New Price Targets

The company also recently announced a monthly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, July 17th. Investors of record on Friday, June 30th will be given a $0.077 dividend. This represents a $0.92 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 4.20%. The ex-dividend date is Thursday, June 29th.

Separately, StockNews.com assumed coverage on Cross Timbers Royalty Trust in a report on Thursday, May 18th. They set a hold rating for the company.

Hedge Funds Weigh In On Cross Timbers Royalty Trust

Hedge funds have recently made changes to their positions in the company. NewEdge Advisors LLC acquired a new stake in Cross Timbers Royalty Trust during the 1st quarter worth about $780,000. Morgan Stanley grew its position in Cross Timbers Royalty Trust by 817.7% during the 4th quarter. Morgan Stanley now owns 20,327 shares of the oil and gas companys stock worth $517,000 after purchasing an additional 18,112 shares during the period. Citadel Advisors LLC acquired a new stake in Cross Timbers Royalty Trust during the 3rd quarter worth about $216,000. US Bancorp DE boosted its stake in shares of Cross Timbers Royalty Trust by 347.1% during the 1st quarter. US Bancorp DE now owns 3,800 shares of the oil and gas companys stock worth $71,000 after acquiring an additional 2,950 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Laffer Tengler Investments purchased a new stake in shares of Cross Timbers Royalty Trust during the 1st quarter worth about $47,000.

Cross Timbers Royalty Trust Company Profile

(Free Report)

Cross Timbers Royalty Trust operates as an express trust in the United States. It holds 90% net profits interests in certain producing and nonproducing royalty and overriding royalty interest properties in Texas, Oklahoma, and New Mexico; and 75% net profits working interest in four properties in Texas and three properties in Oklahoma.

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Mandom Co. (OTCMKTS:MDOMF  Free Report) was the target of a large decrease in short interest in June. As of June 15th, there was short interest totalling 14,800 shares, a decrease of 59.7% from the May 31st total of 36,700 shares. Based on an average daily volume of 0 shares, the short-interest ratio is presently  days.

Mandom Stock Performance

MDOMF stock remained flat at $9.00 during trading on Friday. Mandom has a 12-month low of $9.00 and a 12-month high of $9.00. The business has a fifty day moving average of $9.33 and a 200-day moving average of $10.90. The firm has a market cap of $434.42 million, a PE ratio of 13.04 and a beta of 2.58.

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About Mandom

(Free Report)

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Mandom Corporation engages in the manufacture and sale of cosmetics, perfumes, and quasi-drugs in Japan, Indonesia, and internationally. The company offers a range of products, including men's everyday grooming products, as well as general fashion items, such as hair styling, skin care, and body care products; and hair coloring, scalp care, and face care products under the Gatsby and Lucido brands.

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Rafael Holdings, Inc. (NYSE:RFL  Free Report) saw a large increase in short interest in the month of June. As of June 15th, there was short interest totalling 103,000 shares, an increase of 48.8% from the May 31st total of 69,200 shares. Based on an average daily volume of 51,100 shares, the short-interest ratio is presently 2.0 days. Currently, 0.7% of the shares of the stock are sold short.

Rafael Stock Performance

Shares of RFL stock traded down $0.04 during trading hours on Friday, hitting $2.09. The company had a trading volume of 19,297 shares, compared to its average volume of 28,360. The firm has a market capitalization of $50.79 million, a price-to-earnings ratio of -5.65 and a beta of 1.66. Rafael has a 12 month low of $1.55 and a 12 month high of $2.74. The firms fifty day moving average is $2.06 and its 200 day moving average is $1.99.

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Rafael (NYSE:RFL  Free Report) last announced its earnings results on Tuesday, June 13th. The company reported ($0.06) EPS for the quarter. Rafael had a negative return on equity of 14.63% and a negative net margin of 2,813.93%. The business had revenue of $0.07 million during the quarter.

Institutional Inflows and Outflows

About Rafael

Several large investors have recently bought and sold shares of the company. Renaissance Technologies LLC raised its position in shares of Rafael by 7.2% during the 1st quarter. Renaissance Technologies LLC now owns 186,683 shares of the companys stock valued at $289,000 after acquiring an additional 12,544 shares during the last quarter. HRT Financial LP bought a new stake in shares of Rafael during the 1st quarter valued at $34,000. Charles Schwab Investment Management Inc. bought a new stake in shares of Rafael during the 1st quarter valued at $26,000. Integrated Wealth Concepts LLC bought a new stake in shares of Rafael in the 1st quarter valued at $39,000. Finally, Millennium Management LLC increased its position in shares of Rafael by 49.1% in the 4th quarter. Millennium Management LLC now owns 76,378 shares of the companys stock valued at $143,000 after buying an additional 25,148 shares in the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 10.51% of the companys stock.

(Free Report)

Rafael Holdings, Inc holds interests in clinical and early stage pharmaceutical companies, and commercial real estate assets in the United States and Israel. It operates in two segments, Healthcare and Real Estate. The company engages in the development and commercialization of therapies that exploit the metabolic differences between normal cells and cancer cells.

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SSAB AB (publ) (OTCMKTS:SSAAF  Free Report) saw a large decrease in short interest during the month of June. As of June 15th, there was short interest totalling 28,100 shares, a decrease of 47.9% from the May 31st total of 53,900 shares. Based on an average trading volume of 400 shares, the days-to-cover ratio is currently 70.3 days.

SSAB AB (publ) Price Performance

Shares of SSAAF stock opened at $7.63 on Friday. The stock has a 50-day moving average of $6.89 and a 200-day moving average of $6.71. SSAB AB has a one year low of $4.22 and a one year high of $7.96.

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SSAB AB (publ) Company Profile

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SSAB AB (publ) produces and sells steel products in Sweden, Finland, Rest of Europe, the United States, and internationally. It operates through five segments: SSAB Special Steels, SSAB Europe, SSAB Americas, Tibnor, and Ruukki Construction. The SSAB Special Steels segment offers quenched and tempered steels, and advanced high-strength steel products.

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StockNews.com lowered shares of Bar Harbor Bankshares (NYSEAMERICAN:BHB  Free Report) from a hold rating to a sell rating in a research report released on Thursday.

Bar Harbor Bankshares Trading Down 1.9 %

Shares of NYSEAMERICAN:BHB opened at $24.64 on Thursday. The company has a market capitalization of $373.05 million, a PE ratio of 7.82 and a beta of 0.80. Bar Harbor Bankshares has a 1 year low of $19.55 and a 1 year high of $33.11. The stock has a fifty day simple moving average of $28.69. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.98, a current ratio of 0.98 and a quick ratio of 0.98.

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Bar Harbor Bankshares (NYSEAMERICAN:BHB  Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, April 20th. The financial services provider reported $0.86 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $0.80 by $0.06. Bar Harbor Bankshares had a net margin of 27.03% and a return on equity of 12.04%. The company had revenue of $40.09 million during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $40.30 million. On average, sell-side analysts forecast that Bar Harbor Bankshares will post 2.82 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

Bar Harbor Bankshares Increases Dividend

Institutional Investors Weigh In On Bar Harbor Bankshares

The company also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, June 16th. Shareholders of record on Tuesday, May 16th were issued a dividend of $0.28 per share. This represents a $1.12 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 4.55%. This is a boost from Bar Harbor Banksharess previous quarterly dividend of $0.26. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Monday, May 15th. Bar Harbor Banksharess dividend payout ratio is 35.56%.

A number of hedge funds have recently bought and sold shares of the company. Swiss National Bank raised its position in shares of Bar Harbor Bankshares by 7.9% during the first quarter. Swiss National Bank now owns 35,500 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $1,016,000 after buying an additional 2,600 shares during the last quarter. Bank of Montreal Can acquired a new position in shares of Bar Harbor Bankshares during the first quarter valued at about $972,000. MetLife Investment Management LLC raised its position in shares of Bar Harbor Bankshares by 43.5% during the first quarter. MetLife Investment Management LLC now owns 7,595 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $217,000 after buying an additional 2,303 shares during the last quarter. BlackRock Inc. raised its position in shares of Bar Harbor Bankshares by 0.3% during the first quarter. BlackRock Inc. now owns 1,120,430 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $32,068,000 after buying an additional 3,221 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Great West Life Assurance Co. Can raised its position in shares of Bar Harbor Bankshares by 65.5% during the first quarter. Great West Life Assurance Co. Can now owns 998 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $29,000 after buying an additional 395 shares during the last quarter. 53.18% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors.

About Bar Harbor Bankshares

(Free Report)

Bar Harbor Bankshares operates as the holding company for Bar Harbor Bank & Trust that provides banking and nonbanking products and services primarily to consumers and businesses. It accepts various deposit products, including interest-bearing and non-interest-bearing demand accounts, savings accounts, time deposits, and money market deposit accounts, as well as certificates of deposit.

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Stone Point Wealth LLC lifted its stake in shares of Linde plc (NYSE:LIN  Free Report) by 3.2% during the 1st quarter, according to the company in its most recent disclosure with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The fund owned 8,364 shares of the basic materials companys stock after buying an additional 260 shares during the period. Linde comprises about 1.3% of Stone Point Wealth LLCs holdings, making the stock its 19th largest position. Stone Point Wealth LLCs holdings in Linde were worth $2,973,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission.

Several other hedge funds also recently modified their holdings of the stock. Fenimore Asset Management Inc. purchased a new position in shares of Linde during the first quarter valued at approximately $213,000. Maryland State Retirement & Pension System boosted its position in Linde by 0.8% in the first quarter. Maryland State Retirement & Pension System now owns 39,115 shares of the basic materials companys stock worth $13,903,000 after purchasing an additional 317 shares during the last quarter. Ardevora Asset Management LLP boosted its position in Linde by 3.7% in the first quarter. Ardevora Asset Management LLP now owns 224,012 shares of the basic materials companys stock worth $79,623,000 after purchasing an additional 7,999 shares during the last quarter. Field & Main Bank boosted its position in Linde by 0.8% in the first quarter. Field & Main Bank now owns 4,241 shares of the basic materials companys stock worth $1,507,000 after purchasing an additional 34 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Forum Financial Management LP boosted its position in Linde by 0.9% in the first quarter. Forum Financial Management LP now owns 3,515 shares of the basic materials companys stock worth $1,249,000 after purchasing an additional 30 shares during the last quarter. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 80.44% of the companys stock.

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Insiders Place Their Bets

In other Linde news, VP David P. Strauss sold 2,194 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated Monday, May 15th. The stock was sold at an average price of $371.02, for a total value of $814,017.88. Following the transaction, the vice president now directly owns 23,939 shares in the company, valued at approximately $8,881,847.78. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through this hyperlink. In other news, VP David P. Strauss sold 2,194 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated Monday, May 15th. The stock was sold at an average price of $371.02, for a total value of $814,017.88. Following the completion of the transaction, the vice president now directly owns 23,939 shares in the company, valued at approximately $8,881,847.78. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through the SEC website. Also, VP Guillermo Bichara sold 14,648 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated Monday, May 1st. The stock was sold at an average price of $371.55, for a total value of $5,442,464.40. Following the completion of the transaction, the vice president now owns 27,161 shares of the companys stock, valued at $10,091,669.55. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Insiders have sold 64,117 shares of company stock worth $23,861,511 in the last ninety days. 0.70% of the stock is currently owned by insiders.

Linde Stock Performance

Shares of NYSE:LIN traded up $1.89 during midday trading on Friday, reaching $381.08. 1,642,800 shares of the company traded hands, compared to its average volume of 1,497,374. The company has a quick ratio of 0.61, a current ratio of 0.73 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.28. Linde plc has a 12 month low of $262.47 and a 12 month high of $383.58. The firm has a market capitalization of $186.86 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 42.30, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 2.73 and a beta of 0.84. The firms fifty day moving average price is $366.43 and its two-hundred day moving average price is $347.96.

Linde (NYSE:LIN  Free Report) last announced its earnings results on Thursday, April 27th. The basic materials company reported $3.42 earnings per share for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $3.12 by $0.30. The business had revenue of $8.19 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $8.20 billion. Linde had a return on equity of 15.71% and a net margin of 13.46%. The companys quarterly revenue was down .1% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period in the prior year, the company earned $2.93 EPS. On average, equities analysts expect that Linde plc will post 13.88 earnings per share for the current year.

Linde Announces Dividend

The firm also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, June 16th. Shareholders of record on Friday, June 2nd were paid a $1.275 dividend. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Thursday, June 1st. This represents a $5.10 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 1.34%. Lindes dividend payout ratio is currently 56.60%.

Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

LIN has been the topic of several research analyst reports. JPMorgan Chase & Co. boosted their price objective on Linde from $380.00 to $400.00 in a research report on Friday, April 28th. UBS Group boosted their price objective on Linde from $375.00 to $410.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a research report on Wednesday, March 8th. Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft boosted their price objective on Linde from $385.00 to $415.00 in a research report on Friday, April 28th. Barclays boosted their target price on Linde from $380.00 to $400.00 in a research note on Friday, April 28th. Finally, Evercore ISI boosted their target price on Linde from $355.00 to $375.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a research note on Tuesday, March 7th. Two research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and twelve have issued a buy rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, Linde presently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $383.13.

Linde Profile

(Free Report)

Linde plc operates as an industrial gas company in North and South America, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and the Asia Pacific. It offers atmospheric gases, including oxygen, nitrogen, argon, and rare gases; and process gases, such as carbon dioxide, helium, hydrogen, electronic gases, specialty gases, and acetylene.

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Want to see what other hedge funds are holding LIN? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Linde plc (NYSE:LIN  Free Report).

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Strawberry Fields REIT, Inc. (NYSEAMERICAN:STRW  Free Report) was the target of a large decline in short interest during the month of June. As of June 15th, there was short interest totalling 800 shares, a decline of 33.3% from the May 31st total of 1,200 shares. Based on an average trading volume of 3,500 shares, the days-to-cover ratio is currently 0.2 days. Currently, 0.0% of the shares of the stock are short sold.

Strawberry Fields REIT Trading Up 2.1 %

Shares of STRW stock traded up $0.14 on Friday, reaching $7.04. 2,409 shares of the companys stock traded hands, compared to its average volume of 6,297. Strawberry Fields REIT has a 12-month low of $5.79 and a 12-month high of $13.50.

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Insider Buying and Selling

In related news, Director Jack Levine bought 9,000 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, June 23rd. The shares were acquired at an average cost of $6.96 per share, for a total transaction of $62,640.00. Following the acquisition, the director now directly owns 100,005 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $696,034.80. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is accessible through the SEC website. Insiders own 73.40% of the companys stock.

About Strawberry Fields REIT

Strawberry Fields REIT, Inc, is a self-administered real estate investment trust engaged in the ownership, acquisition, development and leasing of skilled nursing and certain other healthcare-related properties. The Company's portfolio includes 80 healthcare properties, of which 79 are owned, located throughout the states of Arkansas, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio, Oklahoma, Tennessee and Texas.

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Citigroup upgraded shares of Toyota Motor (NYSE:TM  Free Report) from a neutral rating to a buy rating in a report issued on Thursday morning, The Fly reports.

Separately, StockNews.com upgraded shares of Toyota Motor from a hold rating to a buy rating in a report on Friday, May 12th. Three analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and two have issued a buy rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat, the company has an average rating of Hold and a consensus target price of $1,239.71.

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Toyota Motor Trading Up 0.2 %

NYSE TM opened at $160.75 on Thursday. The stocks 50-day simple moving average is $145.96 and its two-hundred day simple moving average is $141.93. Toyota Motor has a twelve month low of $130.07 and a twelve month high of $169.07. The company has a quick ratio of 0.93, a current ratio of 1.10 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.58. The company has a market capitalization of $224.73 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 12.10, a PEG ratio of 0.70 and a beta of 0.62.

Institutional Trading of Toyota Motor

Toyota Motor ( NYSE:TM Free Report ) last released its quarterly earnings results on Wednesday, May 10th. The company reported $3.07 earnings per share for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $2.83 by $0.24. The business had revenue of $73.28 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $68.77 billion. Toyota Motor had a return on equity of 8.60% and a net margin of 6.61%. Research analysts forecast that Toyota Motor will post 16.38 EPS for the current fiscal year.

Several hedge funds have recently bought and sold shares of TM. Fisher Asset Management LLC raised its position in shares of Toyota Motor by 1.9% during the 1st quarter. Fisher Asset Management LLC now owns 5,731,171 shares of the companys stock valued at $812,050,000 after buying an additional 106,391 shares in the last quarter. Morgan Stanley raised its position in shares of Toyota Motor by 6.1% during the 4th quarter. Morgan Stanley now owns 1,473,652 shares of the companys stock valued at $201,272,000 after buying an additional 84,680 shares in the last quarter. Goldman Sachs Group Inc. raised its position in shares of Toyota Motor by 7.4% during the 2nd quarter. Goldman Sachs Group Inc. now owns 830,242 shares of the companys stock valued at $127,998,000 after buying an additional 57,478 shares in the last quarter. BlackRock Inc. raised its position in shares of Toyota Motor by 0.3% during the 1st quarter. BlackRock Inc. now owns 613,963 shares of the companys stock valued at $86,992,000 after buying an additional 2,111 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Ameriprise Financial Inc. raised its position in shares of Toyota Motor by 19.0% during the 1st quarter. Ameriprise Financial Inc. now owns 543,458 shares of the companys stock valued at $77,512,000 after buying an additional 86,597 shares in the last quarter.

Toyota Motor Company Profile

(Free Report)

Toyota Motor Corporation designs, manufactures, assembles, and sells passenger vehicles, minivans and commercial vehicles, and related parts and accessories. It operates in Automotive, Financial Services, and All Other segments. The company offers hybrid cars under the Prius name, fuel cell vehicles under the MIRAI name; and conventional engine vehicles, including subcompact and compact cars under the Corolla and Raize names.

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WealthOne LLC decreased its position in iShares MSCI EAFE ETF (NYSEARCA:EFA  Free Report) by 5.7% in the 1st quarter, according to its most recent filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The firm owned 5,991 shares of the exchange traded funds stock after selling 361 shares during the period. WealthOne LLCs holdings in iShares MSCI EAFE ETF were worth $428,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

Several other institutional investors and hedge funds also recently made changes to their positions in EFA. VitalStone Financial LLC acquired a new position in iShares MSCI EAFE ETF in the 4th quarter worth $27,000. Financial Freedom LLC acquired a new position in iShares MSCI EAFE ETF in the 4th quarter worth $28,000. Householder Group Estate & Retirement Specialist LLC acquired a new position in iShares MSCI EAFE ETF in the 1st quarter worth $33,000. Farmers & Merchants Trust Co of Chambersburg PA boosted its stake in iShares MSCI EAFE ETF by 172.9% in the 4th quarter. Farmers & Merchants Trust Co of Chambersburg PA now owns 464 shares of the exchange traded funds stock worth $30,000 after purchasing an additional 294 shares during the period. Finally, Milestone Investment Advisors LLC acquired a new position in iShares MSCI EAFE ETF in the 4th quarter worth $32,000. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 78.99% of the companys stock.

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iShares MSCI EAFE ETF Price Performance

NYSEARCA EFA traded up $0.88 on Friday, reaching $72.50. The company had a trading volume of 28,381,135 shares, compared to its average volume of 14,789,269. iShares MSCI EAFE ETF has a 1-year low of $54.61 and a 1-year high of $74.05. The companys fifty day moving average is $72.60 and its 200-day moving average is $70.77.

About iShares MSCI EAFE ETF

iShares MSCI EAFE ETF, formerly iShares MSCI EAFE Index Fund (the Fund), is an exchange-traded fund. The Funds investment objective is to seek investment results that correspond to the price and yield performance of its underlying index, MSCI EAFE Index (the Index). The Index has been developed by MSCI Inc as an equity benchmark for its international stock performance.

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The medical director of the Morrison Cancer Center believes the requirements of Medicare Advantage organizations such as UnitedHealthcare do a disservice to his cancer patients.

Dr. M. Sitki Copur feels people with cancer would be better served with traditional Medicare than they are by Medicare Advantage plans.

For people with Medicare Advantage, prior authorization is often required for treatments that Copur feels his patients need. Those measures include MRIs, chemotherapy and PET scans.

Copur, who is an oncologist, says the preauthorization burden causes problems for his patients on a regular basis.

Seeking preauthorization is a difficult process, he says. And the delay can be harmful for people with cancer.

Rather than sitting there, waiting for preauthorization, cancer progresses. A delay of two to four weeks can jeopardize a patients life, Copur said.

Sometimes a day or two can make a difference. This is why this is so important, he said.

With Medicare Advantage, if a doctor uses a procedure or medication without preapproval, the insurer will not pay. The doctor would have to bill the patient or the hospital. Rather than going that route, the doctor might use a lesser quality or cheaper product.

Three Medicare Advantage programs are available in Nebraska: UnitedHealthcare, Nebraska Total Care and Blue Cross/Blue Shield.

From Copurs perspective, UnitedHealthcare is the worst of the three for his cancer patients.

And Im not scared to say it, he said. Nebraska Total Care is a little bit better, he said.

The Morrison Cancer Center is part of Mary Lanning Healthcare. Copur has offices in Hastings and Grand Island. He is also an adjunct professor at the University of Nebraska Medical Center.

Under regular Medicare, standard procedures are followed in the treatment of cancer, using guidelines set out by the National Comprehensive Cancer Network and the American Society of Clinical Oncology. Any approved chemotherapy may be used for Medicare patients without preapproval.

Copur says UnitedHealthcare is misleading in its advertising. A letter he received from the company says a Medicare Advantage plan from United Healthcare provides your Original Medicare benefits, plus valuable extras.

Copur says thats not true. Cancer patients who are on traditional Medicare do not require preauthorization.

The Independent tried several times this past week to contact UnitedHealthcare, but those attempts were unsuccessful.

Two members of Copurs staff spend a lot of time trying to obtain preauthorization. The process is time-consuming. Some staff members refer to Medicare Advantage as Medicare Disadvantage.

Not only does UnitedHealthcare deny treatments, but it sometimes denies investigations and tests, Copur said.

This has to be corrected, Copur says of the current system.

If authorization is denied, the physician can appeal the process by requesting a peer-to-peer interview with a doctor.

Copur uses that process frequently. But hes disappointed that he cant argue his case with a fellow oncologist. Sometimes, in lobbying for his patients, he might be talking to a dermatologist or a pharmacist.

The appeal process takes time. Members of a cancer team must be aggressive in fighting cancer, Copur said.

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services have published two proposed rules addressing prior authorization. The proposals are meant to rein in Medicare Advantage plans from placing excessive and unnecessary administrative obstacles between patients and evidence-based treatments, says a news release.

Earlier this year, the American Society of Clinical Oncology listed Copur in the Presidents Circle of ASCOs Advocacy Champions.

ASCO says the honor was the result of his tireless advocacy efforts in 2022.

ASCO says Advocacy Champions are ASCO volunteers who work hard to ensure that every patient with cancer has access to high-quality, equitable cancer care no matter who they are or where they live.

Copur was one of 160 people who attended the 2023 ASCO Advocacy Summit meeting May 1 and 2 in Washington, D.C. During the trip, he visited the offices of Congressional representatives from Nebraska and Iowa.

At a breakfast, Copur spoke to Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse of Rhode Island.

Copur told Whitehouse that Medicare Advantage organizations are not doing what they say theyre doing. He said theyre removing some of the benefits of regular Medicare and delivering small rewards in return.

Copur asked members of Congress to support the Improving Seniors Timely Access to Care Act and other bills.

In addition to his Washington trip, Copur works with the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network and the Nebraska Medical Association.

Copurs battle wont stop anytime soon. He plans to devote the rest of his working life to fight for his patients and to ease their pain and suffering as much as he can.
Forty-two high school students got a chance to train like a trooper last week at the Nebraska State Patrol Training Academy in Grand Island.

The cadets were part of the 53rd Junior Law Academy, which gives high school seniors-to-be a glimpse of what it takes to be a Nebraska State Trooper.

Junior Law is a great opportunity for high school juniors considering a career in law enforcement to experience part of the training our recruits go through, Capt. Andy Ecklund, commander of the NSP Training Academy, said in a news release. The cadets worked hard last week and showed that they have what it takes to make a difference. Most of these cadets will go on to serve others in their careers and wed love to see them again in a few years ready to join the Nebraska State Patrol.

Six cadets received awards for their excellent performances during the week.

Dillon Simpson of Burwell was named the 2023 Boys Outstanding Cadet.

Girls Outstanding Cadet was Tessa Miller of Sutherland.

Boys Marksmanship Award went to Kieffer Bruening of Newcastle.

Glory Naughtin of Sutherland earned the Girls Marksmanship Award.

The Boys Driving Award was presented to Jordyn Anderson of Hay Springs.

Camryn Jacobsmeier of Omaha received the Girls Driving Award.

Junior Law is an annual program organized by the American Legion Department of Nebraska and hosted by the NSP Training Academy in Grand Island. High school juniors from across the state are eligible to apply for the program. Troopers from around Nebraska come together to teach the cadets and put them through several blocks of training. Several current Nebraska State Troopers are graduates of Junior Law.

Applications for the 54th Junior Law Academy, scheduled for June 2024, will be made available in the coming months at the American Legion website.
M&A deals bail out property developers with cash flow troubles

By Pham Nguyen, Nguyen Tuong Sun, July 2, 2023 | 7:02 am GTM+7

Merger and acquisition (M&A) deals, mostly with overseas buyers, have emerged as a solution for cash flow bottlenecks faced by Vietnamese real estate developers.

A Singaporean firm has completed acquisition of major Ho Chi Minh City-based real estate developer Novalands F&B business (Nova F&B), a source told The Investor last month. The person, who requested anonymity, also said the buyers name and transaction value could not be revealed under the contract, which was brokered by VinaCapital, a leading investment management firm in Vietnam.

The source provided the information a day after VinaCapitals chief investment officer Andy Ho had told Vietnamese media that Singapore-headquartered IN Holdings, which is not the buyer, was the new operator of Nova F&B.

The Nova F&B chain has been renamed IN Dining. Vietnamese businesswoman Nguyen Thanh Ha Ngoc has been appointed legal representative and general director of IN Dining. She is also CEO of HCMC-based IN Hospitality JSC, which operates large convention and event centers including the GEM Center and White Palace in the southern economic hub.

Novalands divestment aimed at an intensified focus on its core business - real estate development. In February, Dallas Vietnam Gamma Ltd., one of Novaland's bondholders, agreed to exchange the bonds for a stake in two Novaland subsidiaries - Thanh Nhon Real Estate and Mui Ne General Investment. The transaction was worth VND1 trillion ($43.4 million). Dallas Vietnam Gamma is not a domestic company.

The Khang Dien Verosa Park project in Thu Duc city on the outskirts of Ho Chi Minh City. Photo courtesy of Khang Dien.

This May, Singapore conglomerate Keppel Corporation acquired a 49% stake in two adjacent residential projects in Ho Chi Minh City from Vietnamese property developer Khang Dien for VND3.18 trillion ($135.42 million).

Khang Dien, listed on the Ho Chi Minh Stock Exchange (HoSE) as KDH, holds the remaining 51% interest and will develop the two projects in Thu Duc city with the Keppel Corporation and Keppel Vietnam Fund, jointly known as the Keppel Consortium.

The consortium and Khang Dien will cooperate with each other in developing more than 200 houses and over 600 high-rise apartments on the two sites, which have a total area of 11.8 hectares. The projects are estimated to cost VND10.2 trillion ($434.4 million), said Keppel Corp.

This marked the second joint investment by the Keppel Consortium following one involving three residential sites in Hanoi last year.

HCMC-based Saigon Real Estate Corp. (Saigonres) signed a deal early April under which it would transfer An Phu Riverview Apartments and An Phu Residences in Thu Duc to Saigon Riverside Investment Co. Ltd.

The two projects are estimated to cost more than VND900 billion ($38.2 million). If the transaction goes through, Saigonres would get around VND600-650 billion ($25.44 million to $27.6 million) for the two projects.

According to a recent report by the Vietnam Association of Realtors (VARS), very few Vietnamese real estate developers are able to arrange capital flows to become buyers in the M&A market. Therefore, foreign buyers are expected to lead major deals.

Prominent among them are investors from Singapore, South Korea, Taiwan, Japan, Malaysia and some other markets, but most of the new deals are under negotiation, according to VARS.

The talks would take time because buyers and sellers are bargaining over the prices, VARS said. It noted that some domestic developers were expecting too much but others were willing to accept lower prices despite suffering losses in order to improve their cash flows.

VARS predicted that the market will see several major M&A deals in the time to come.

It has suggested that Vietnamese regulators allow developers with cash flow troubles to make transfers when site clearance is completed because this would help project implementation proceed without major delays or postponements.

The ailing property market also needed an effective investment channel set up with operations dedicated to the sector, VARS has said, adding that this would help bring in foreign investors and enable better networking between sellers and buyers in M&A deals.
Six Vietnam commercial banks to raise their charter capital

By Trang Nguyen Sun, July 2, 2023 | 7:35 am GTM+7

Six Vietnamese commercial banks, namely ACB, SHB, LPBank, NCB, Vietcombank, and Agribank, are poised to increase their charter capital, aiming to augment their financial capacity and become more competitive.

In the latest instance, the Asia Commercial Joint Stock Bank (ACB) issued a resolution Friday to adjust its charter capital from VND33.77 trillion ($1.4 billion) to more than VND38.84 trillion ($1.65 billion).

ACB had earlier issued 506,615,264 shares to pay a 15% dividend in 2022, thereby expanding its charter capital by VND5.07 trillion ($214.86 million). After the issuance, the total number of outstanding shares of ACB increased from 3,377 million to 3,884 million shares.

On the Ho Chi Minh City Stock Exchange (HoSE) the ACB share closed Friday at VND22,050 ($0.94).

ACB bank's headquarters in Ho Chi Minh City, southern Vietnam. Photo courtesy of Youth newspaper.

Saigon-Hanoi Bank (SHB), one of the top private banks in Vietnam, will increase its charter capital from VND30.67 trillion ($1.3 billion) to VND36.65 trillion ($1.56 billion), maintaining its position as a top five Vietnamese private bank in terms of charter capital.

On June 15, the State Bank of Vietnam (SBV) approved SHB's proposal to issue shares to pay an 18% dividend to existing shareholders for 2022, and to issue shares under the Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP).

The increased charter capital will improve the bank's financial capacity and competitiveness as the country furthers its international economic integration, while meeting the expectations of shareholders, SHB said.

On the HoSE, the SHB share closed Friday at VND12,500 ($0.53).

Early last month, LPBank, formerly known as LienVietPostBank, received approval from the central bank to raise its charter capital from VND11.39 trillion to VND28.68 trillion ($1.22 billion).

To facilitate the move, the private bank, listed on the HoSE as as LPB, will issue 328.5 million shares to pay dividend, offer 500 million shares to existing shareholders, organize a private placement of 300 million shares for foreign investors, and issue 10 million shares under the employee stock ownership plan. The plan was approved at LPBs 2023 annual general meeting in April.

The LPB share closed Friday at VND15,150 ($0.64).

Meanwhile, the National Citizen Bank (NCB) in April approved a plan to issue a maximum 620 million shares via private placement for VND6.2 trillion ($262.4 million) to increase its charter capital to VND11.8 trillion ($503.3 million).

Under the plan, adopted at the banks annual general meeting of shareholders, the share issuance would be completed in three years, or by 2025.

The issuance will be made at least six months apart from the end of the latest, with the offering price not lower than VND10,000 ($.0.43) per share.

NCB chairwoman Bui Thanh Huong said the bank has chosen private placement instead of a public offering in order to attract strategic investors with financial strength, technology and experience and long-term commitments. The bank was eyeing the partnership of Japanese and British shareholders, she said.

The capital increase aims to have more funds for network development, business site relocation and technology improvement; and increase financial capacity to meet international standards, she added.

State-owned banks

In May, the SBV allowed state-controlled Vietcombank to raise its charter capital from VND47.33 trillion to VND55.89 trillion ($2.38 billion).

Listed on the HoSE as VCB, the bank will issue nearly 856.6 million shares to pay an 18.1% dividend (a shareholder holding 1,000 shares will receive 181 shares).

With this move, Vietcombank will surpass VietinBank and BIDV, two other Big 4 banks, to become the second-largest bank in terms of charter capital after VPBank.

The VCB share dipped 0.53% to VND100,000 ($4.24) when the HoSE closed Friday.

Also in May, the National Assembly Standing Committee okayed a plan for wholly state-owned Agribank to increase its charter capital by VND17.1 trillion ($729 million).

The government proposed that the additional capital will be drawn from the state budget.

SBV Deputy Governor Doan Thai Son said that as of December 31, 2022, Agribank's charter capital was the lowest among the four state-owned commercial banks in Vietnam, and below several private banks.

"If Agribank is not allowed to increase its charter capital, it will not be able to ensure its key role in the domestic banking market, especially as it operates mainly in the agricultural and rural sectors," he added.

Chairman of the National Assembly Economic Committee Vu Hong Thanh said that the committee basically agreed with the necessity of a charter capital hike for Agribank to help it achieve a capital adequacy ratio of 8% and climb higher in global credit ratings.
VN-Index drops after four-week gaining streak

By Khanh An, Huong Dung Sun, July 2, 2023 | 3:38 pm GTM+7

After four consecutive weeks of gaining, the Ho Chi Minh Stock Exchanges (HoSE) VN-Index was under correction pressure and closed at 1,120.18 points in the last week of June.

The Vietnamese stock market recorded a relatively pessimistic trading week (June 26-30) as two losing sessions at the end of the week swept away all previous achievements.

Notably, on Thursday, massive sell-offs, especially on DIG of real estate developer DIG Corp. and HPG steel maker Hoa Phat, caused the VN-Index to lose nearly 13 points, the strongest fall since the end of March.

VCB of Vietcombank, BID of BIDV bank, and GAS of PV Gas had the most negative impact on the VN-Index this week. Of which, VCB alone deprived the index of more than 2 points.

On the other side, MWG of Mobile World Investment Corp and HPG and GVR of Vietnam Rubber Group were the most positive influencers.

The VN-Index ended June and the second quarter of 2023 at 1,120.18 points. It declined 0.81% from the previous week, but surged 4.19% compared to May.

The trading value on the HoSE reached over VND82.8 trillion ($3.51 billion), up 0.8%, while the trading volume decreased by 1.2% from last week.

The liquidity on the Hanoi Stock Exchange (HNX) fell 16.07% to VND8.24 trillion ($349.4 million). Cash flows mainly ran into building materials, retail and transport groups.

The VN-Index ends June at 1,120.18 points, up 4.19% from May. Photo by The Investor/Trong Hieu.

Foreign investors were net sellers for the second week on the HoSE to the tune of VND340.53 billion ($14.4 million), but were net buyers on the Hanoi bourse with VND161.8 billion ($6.86 million).

According to Saigon-Hanoi Securities (SHS), this week's correction was necessary after the VN-Index had surpassed the resistance territory of 1,120 points after a long period of gaining. Given the current state, the benchmark index is likely to soon rise again towards the stronger resistance area of around 1,150 points.

However, in the short term, the market is forecast to continue recording corrections in a retracement wave towards the strong resistance zone of 1,150 points. Surfing investors can take advantage of corrections to restructure their portfolio, but should maintain an average proportion of stocks and limit buying high-priced stocks.

In the long term, SHS said the market is still positive despite corrections during the week and continues accumulation in a wide range of 1,000-1,150 points. An uptrend will be formed if the VN-Index accumulates enough and passes the 1,150-point mark.

Medium- and long-term investors who have put down money in the past period should maintain their current portfolios, it said, advising them to take advantage of correction sessions to increase their proportion of stocks.

They should choose tickers of leading firms with good fundamentals and stable growth potential that are moving in the current accumulation state, SSI said.

Sharing the same view, broker Agriseco argued that the corrections in the last two sessions of the week were necessary to balance supply and demand after seven consecutive gaining sessions.

It predicted that the VN-Index will fluctuate around 1,115-1,125 points with low liquidity in the first sessions of next week before returning to the territory of 1,130-1,140 points in the last sessions.

In the medium and long term, the market is still in an uptrend, so short-term corrections are opportunities for investors to accumulate stocks. "At the support area of 1,115-1,120 points, investors can pour money into leading tickers in the fields of steel, banking, food and beverage, and industrial park infrastructure," it advised.

Similarly, KB Securities Vietnam said that the main index will have many chances to recover and reach the support territory of around 1.115-1.117 points. Investors are recommended to continue holding medium-term positions and pursue a strategy of buying stocks at support areas and selling them at resistance zones.
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Some sun this morning with increasing clouds this afternoon. High 96F. Winds SSW at 5 to 10 mph..

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A 38-year-old Denmark man is spending the rest of his life in prison after a Bamberg County jury convicted him of assault and battery of a high and aggravated nature earlier this month.

Myron Kareem Singleton, of 214 Fredrick St., also faced charges of first-degree criminal sexual conduct with a minor and kidnapping.

The jury acquitted him of those charges, 2nd Circuit Deputy Solicitor David Miller said.

Circuit Judge R. Scott Sprouse sentenced Singleton on June 22.

Were really proud of the jury. They did the right thing, Miller said.

Singleton had been accused of beating a 22-year-old woman multiple times with an electrical drop cord and sexually assaulting her numerous times between Feb. 3 and Feb. 5, 2022 at a Pecan Street residence in Denmark.

There wasnt any physical evidence, other than the wounds on the womans body, that we could show the jury, Miller said.

Miller noted that the case was investigated by the Denmark Police Department and police didnt obtain search warrants for Singletons home so they could look for items the woman claimed Singleton used to assault her.

As a result, Miller said, there was no evidence of a drop cord nor the object the woman claimed Singleton used to sexually assault her.

Singletons attorney, public defender Wallis April Alves, argued that her client didnt assault the woman, Miller said.

Miller said police became involved in the case after the womans mother reported her missing on Feb. 5.

The womans mother told police she saw her daughter get into Singletons car on Feb. 3, but she wasnt able to get in touch with her after that, Miller said.

On Feb. 4, the womans mother went to Singletons home and knocked on the door, but no one responded, Miller said.

On Feb. 5, the womans mother reported her daughter missing to the Denmark Police Department.

Denmark officers werent able to reach Singleton, but they were able to contact his mother.

About an hour later, the missing woman called her mother on the phone, Miller said.

The womans mother then saw her badly beaten daughter walking down the road, he added.

The mother took her daughter to the Bamberg-Barnwell Emergency Medical Center.

It was there that a nurse performed a SANE exam  also referred to as a sex assault examination  on the woman.

A couple of weeks later, police arrested Singleton, Miller said.

At the time of his arrest, Singleton was out on bond for charges stemming from three incidents of alleged armed robbery, home invasion and assault. Miller said accusers in those cases werent cooperative with law enforcement. The charges were dropped.

Under South Carolina law, life sentences are without parole. No appeal has been filed in this case.
(TBTCO) - Sau qua trinh chuan bi khan truong, quyet liet, nhat la sau 3 ot kiem thu a cho thay he thong ang ky, luu ky va thanh toan giao dich trai phieu doanh nghiep phat hanh rieng le (TPDNRL) tai Trung tam Luu ky Chung khoan Viet Nam (VSD) hoan thanh ve mat chuc nang va tich hop thong suot voi he thong cua cac ben lien quan. Theo o, en nay he thong ang ky, luu ky va thanh toan giao dich a san sang hoat ong theo ung ke hoach van hanh chinh thuc thi truong giao dich thu cap TPDNRL ma co quan quan ly giao nhiem vu
With concerns rising that more than 100 Venezuelan migrants who were held at a bar in St Jam
Honourable Minister, the announcement that migrant children will be allowed into schools in September is excellent news for all who believe in social justice and the human rights of the child. As we welcome migrant pupils into our schools, we are presented with an opportunity to turn around our countrys education system to account for and correct the psychologically violent colonial inheritance of a raceand colour-based hierarchy.
How much critical habitat for jaguars will be eliminated remains unclear more than a month after a court decided the U.S. government erroneously designated land, including the proposed Rosemont Mine site, as legally protected habitat.

Depending on how the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service interprets the ruling, as little as 8.8% or as much as 51% of all 709,000 acres of critical habitat in Southern Arizona mountain ranges for the endangered jaguar could be eliminated.

The May 17 ruling from the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals overturned a wildlife service decision that designated the land surrounding the proposed Rosemont Mine site in the Santa Rita Mountains as critical jaguar habitat. But the rulings wording left it unclear in some observers views as to how much total land will be removed from critical habitat.

The outcome could have significant legal ramifications because federal law prohibits destruction or adverse modification of critical habitat for endangered species.

In 2014, the wildlife service formally designated jaguar critical habitat, but the same year it determined the mine would not illegally destroy critical habitat.

But U.S. District Judge James Soto in Tucson overturned that decision in February 2020 and ordered it redone. The 9th Circuit declined to rule on that issue since it has decided the critical habitat itself wasnt properly designated.

A wildlife service regional spokesman in Albuquerque, Al Barrus, declined to say how the agency intends to interpret the decision.

Seven adult male jaguars have been spotted in the U.S. Southwest since 1996. Five have only been seen in Arizona, one only in New Mexico and one in both states.

Hudbay says impact is limited

At issue is the future of two major areas of jaguar critical habitat, known as Unit 3 and Subunit 4b. Unit 3 spans about 351,500 acres, and Subunit 4b covers about 12,710 acres.

All of Subunit 4b of critical habitat would disappear regardless of how the 9th Circuit ruling is interpreted by the feds, but the amount of land that would be removed from Unit 3 remains up in the air.

Unit 3 runs in almost a straight shot south from the Santa Rita Mountains, through the Patagonia, Huachuca and Empire mountains, south to the Canelo and Grosvenor hills near the U.S.-Mexican border. Subunit 4b covers much of the Whetstone and Empire Mountains southeast of Tucson and south of Benson.

Hudbay Minerals Inc. is the company proposing to build the mine, which it no longer calls Rosemont but has folded into its larger Copper World project in the Santa Ritas.

Hudbay said the court decision limits the area to be removed from critical habitat to only the 50,000 acres that includes the Rosemont site at the north end of Unit 3 of jaguar habitat, and the 12,710 acres of Subunit 4b.

The Toronto-based mining company specifically referred to a footnote in the recent ruling. It noted, in referring to the wildlife services original determination that some critical habitat was occupied, that Hudbay was only contesting critical habitat for the northern Santa Rita Mountains area of Unit 3  roughly 50,000 of its total of 351,000 acres.

Others find ruling unclear

But Marc Fink, an attorney for the environmental group that supported the services designation, the Tucson-based Center for Biological Diversity, said the 9th Circuit ruling left it unclear whether only the 50,000 acres or whether all 351,501 acres of unit 3 would be removed from critical habitat.

Its a great question. Its something were still assessing and trying to figure out if theres steps we want to take on this, Fink said.

He added, there are too many attorneys in the room for the center to make a quick decision on how to react to the conflicting interpretations of the 9th Circuits ruling.

Steve Spangle, a retired Arizona field supervisor for the wildlife service, agreed the ruling is unclear. He said that if he were still on the job, I would look at the whole designations and decide what if any modifications should be made, or should we just start all over?

We had a competent biologist on that designation. I would ask her to take a whole new look, said Spangle, who oversaw the wildlife services Arizona Ecological Services office when it made the original critical habitat designation in March 2014. He retired in 2018.

The wildlife service biologist to whom Spangle referred, Marit Alanen, still works for the agency in its Tucson office.

Failed to prove essential need

The 9th Circuit ruling said repeatedly that the services designation of the entire Unit 3 was arbitrary and capricious, a phrase courts typically use when they overturn or toss out a federal agencys action. The ruling was handed down by a three-judge panel. It voted 2-1 to overturn a separate part of Sotos ruling that had upheld the critical habitat designation of all of Unit 3 and Subunit 4b.

The 9th Circuit panel majority found the service failed to make the case that those areas were essential to conservation of the jaguar  a standard required by federal law to justify designation of unoccupied critical habitat  which is how this land had been designated by the service.

In sum, the FWS has not provided a rational connection between the facts found and the choice made or articulate[d] a satisfactory explanation to justify its designations of Unit 3 and Subunit 4b as unoccupied critical habitat, the panel wrote.

But the ruling simply reversed Sotos upholding the designation of the challenged area as critical habitat. The challenged area referred to the area of critical habitat that Toronto-based Hudbay had originally challenged: the 50,000 acres in Unit 3 and 12,710 acres in Subunit 4B.

The wildlife service cant comment on the rulings implications because it still considers the case pending, said Barrus. Asked why, Barrus referred a reporter to the U.S. Attorneys Office in Phoenix.

There, a U.S. attorneys spokeswoman in turn referred the question to Shannon Shevilin, a spokeswoman for the Justice Departments Environmental and Natural Resources Division, who didnt return an email from the Star seeking comment. Typically, U.S. Supreme Court rules give losing parties in a Circuit Court ruling 90 days to file an appeal to the high court.

This court-based repudiation of jaguar critical habitat is the second such instance since jaguar habitat was designated in 2014. In February 2022, the wildlife service removed about 59,000 acres of critical jaguar habitat in New Mexico after the 10th Circuit Court of Appeals overturned the agencys previous designation of that land as jaguar prime habitat.

The 10th Circuits rationale was similar to that of the 9th Circuits last month: that the wildlife service failed to show the lands in question were essential for jaguar conservation.
After Tiana Reks lost her apartment seven years ago, she lived in her car. After a car crash took away her home and transportation, Reks lived wherever she could lay her head at night.

Now, Reks lives in a makeshift shelter composed of plastic tarps and plywood between a fence and a tree-lined avenue. If Tucson hadnt declared the area she lives in along a row of about six tents a tier 2 encampment, I have no idea what I would do, she said.

Last October, the city launched its homeless encampment reporting tool where residents can fill out an online form reporting the locations of dwellings the unsheltered population has created throughout Tucson. The city processes the report, sends outreach workers to the locations and assigns them a tiered level based on their impacts on inhabitants, the community and the environment.

Tier 1 locations are previously inhabited areas that require clean-up, while tier 2 sites have residents that are able to govern themselves and arent disruptive to the community. Tier 3 camps pose health and safety risks and perpetrate violence and crime toward the surrounding community and camp inhabitants, the city says. City workers provide these encampments outreach efforts for temporary shelter and wraparound social services before giving them a 72-hour notice to vacate.

Reks said she was terrified of being displaced from her camp, until I found out about the whole tier thing and how we managed to get ourselves to be tier 2.

The city brings Reks and the few other inhabitants in her encampment trash bags to keep the area clean, and she tries to let others know the camp is at capacity to keep it from growing.

Cops will come by on their bikes and just kind of like ride through. But we dont get told we have to leave anymore, she said. Im kind of at ease at the moment, Im not really worried about that happening. But I mean, who knows?

Tucsons encampment reporting tool has received 6,014 reports since it launched on Oct. 27. Of those, only 792 have become cases for in-person evaluation as of May 22, according to the city. About 54% of reports are duplicates reporting the same place and 34% are not encampments, but rather loiterers or unsheltered people temporarily seeking respite.

The tool has been key to achieving a better understanding of the transit patterns of the citys homeless population and has allowed city workers to create a dashboard of data points for encampments and track subsequent outreach efforts. More than 15 city departments have a role in the encampment protocol.

Enhancing outreach efforts

The system has dramatically improved engagement efforts that previously operated through arbitrary emailed reports with no cohesive system to track follow-up efforts or the current status of a camp, said Justin Hamilton, a homeless encampment outreach specialist.

The tool helps the communitys businesses and neighborhoods feel like they have an active role in addressing the issue. Groups like the Tucson Crime Free Coalition have spoken out about how homelessness comes with crime and violence that threatens others safety and bottom lines.

But it also helps those living in encampments gain access to resources by putting outreach efforts into the hands of social workers and homelessness specialists instead of law enforcement, Hamilton said.

Its a fine line, because we work for the people of the city, and we work for the homeless and the unsheltered community. Its a fine balance between trying to make everybody happy and doing whats right, he said. I feel that (outreach workers) being the first eyes on, its better than enforcement being the first eyes on. At least now you have outreach where youre going there to make the first initial assessment with some kind of humility right off the bat.

Tucsons outreach workers assign social workers to homeless individuals at encampments and get them on lists to receive housing vouchers. Workers administer a survey that assesses a persons vulnerability and helps prioritize who receives housing assistance first. When someones name comes up on the list to receive a housing voucher, its easier to track them down through the new dashboard, Hamilton said.

The new protocol has also freed up police resources as officers play less of a role in the outreach process and public safety communications staff dont receive as many calls reporting encampments. Were getting five to 10 times as much done now, said Sgt. Jack Julsing, of the Tucson Police Departments Homeless Outreach Team.

The key was that we didnt want just one department handling this, we didnt want it to be just a 911 call where officers go there, Julsing said. Their tool belt isnt as big as the entire citys tool belt. So this whole system includes all the tool belts from all the different departments that can help.

A traumatic scene

But while some areas are allowed to remain in place, about 200 high-problem encampments have been disbanded under the new system, according to city data.

That includes the long-standing encampment anchored in the wash between the edge of Estevan Park near downtown Tucson and the Union Pacific railroad tracks. In the early morning hours of April 27, police cleared out the dozens of inhabitants living in tents and makeshift shelters at the camp.

The camp is uniquely positioned next to the warehouse of the Splinter Collective, a community center that provides aid to the surrounding unsheltered population. Natalie Brewster Nguyen, who co-owns the Splinter Collective center, said the encampment removal was a deeply traumatic scene where inhabitants were rushed out of their tents and not allowed to take all of their property with them.

I felt like I was in the middle of a refugee camp disaster, she said. People were screaming and crying and fighting  People were just there with what little belongings they had left in a plastic bag or whatever they could carry. It was crazy.

While the camp was ruled a tier 3 for violent crime and posing dangers to inhabitants and the community, Multi-Agency Resource Coordinator Amaris Vasquez said the encampments removal was triggered by a request from Union Pacific to clear out the area so they can start construction work on the fence neighboring the encampment. She said Union Pacific owns the land the encampment covered.

Vasquez, who coordinates homeless resources between the city and Pima County, said city workers went out to the camp many days before posting the 72-hour notice to vacate, offering residents temporary shelter opportunities and social services. She said the Environmental Services Department stores personal items collected after clean-ups at its warehouse for 30 days for people to collect.

Julsing said the camp was the setting of several violent crimes and sexual assaults, And thats something, as a police department, we have to address. He said the police initiated the clean-up early in the morning to avoid higher temperatures later in the day and to allow time to clean the vast area the camp covered.

But Brewster Nguyen said the paper notices posted throughout the encampment before its removal were misconstrued as an opportunity to clean up before getting kicked out.

People had been really, really busting their butts to try to make the camp clean under the impression that then they would not be forced to leave, she said.

The misconception could also be rooted in previous signage posted in encampments warning of an incoming clean-up effort, Julsing said, when no cleanup ever happened.

Individuals in these camps are thinking that notice doesnt mean anything, theyre not going to do anything. But now with this efficient model that we have  when we post it, it is going to get cleaned up. And I think people are still getting used to that, he said.

The lack of low-barrier shelter

Its not the first time the citys tried to clear out the Estevan Park encampment. The camp was also removed in September, according to Brewster Nguyen, who said things went a lot differently. The city clearly communicated with her they would bring vans to transport people to No-Tel, a city-run motel site used to shelter homeless people until they can find more permanent housing options.

Currently, Tucson has about 140 beds and 100 rooms across three hotels its purchased or temporarily leased to house the unsheltered. Unlike many of the areas homeless shelters, there are no significant barriers to entry. People can go into the shelter with their partners and pets and arent required to detox from drugs.

The model is part of the citys Housing First program, which operates by quickly moving people into housing and providing additional support services as needed. But the rooms are often at capacity and are triaged to prioritize housing for families and the elderly.

When Estevan Parks residents had to leave in April, the citys low-barrier housing options werent available. Instead, They were offering people basically detox or Gospel Rescue Mission. And people didnt want to do that, Brewster Nguyen said. Pretty much every single person said that they would happily go to the hotel if we could put them up there. Zero people were willing to go to a shelter.

The Gospel Rescue Mission homeless shelter often has beds available, but the shelter requires residents to be sober and separates male and female partners.

The citys housing first efforts through its low-barrier hotels have been relatively successful, according to Housing First Director Brandi Champion. Since the program began in October 2021, 678 people received shelter services and 275 were housed through the citys non-congregate shelters as of May.

But capacity is scarce, and even if more people were to accept shelter with conditions, it wouldnt be enough.

We do not have enough low-barrier shelter in the community, or regular shelter for that matter, Champion said. If we filled every shelter bed today, we would still have homeless people on the street.

The Tucson Pima Collaboration to End Homelessness point-in-time count that provides a snapshot of those experiencing homelessness on a single night grew 60% in 2023 from 2018, representing an increase of 829 people over five years.

On the night of Jan. 23, volunteers counted 2,209 people residing in a shelter, transitional housing, or living without shelter in Pima County, and 77% of homeless people were unsheltered on the night of the 2023 count.

When those displaced from tier 3 encampments arent allowed to return to their known residence and refuse short-term shelter, they tend to disperse and set up camp at other nearby locations.

Brewster Nguyen said the Estevan Park residents have moved to other washes and at other locations along the railroad tracks, including in a nearby underground tunnel.

You dont just sweep people, and then they disappear, she said. Theyre gonna go somewhere, and theyre gonna go somewhere with way less resources than they had yesterday.

Julsing acknowledged that this cycle is a big issue, but said, We are not at functional zero, we dont have enough affordable housing for our entire unhoused population. So thats why when we go out, we make sure we bombard them with outreach. We may not get to you into housing this week, or this month, or even this year. But we have to get you on that list.

More tier 3 clear-outs are set to come as encampment response workers set focus on seasonal areas of interest.

Of the tier 3 locations the encampment team has responded to, about 30% are located in washes and cement culverts, a number thats expected to grow as the sweltering Tucson summer heat drives people to the cooler, often shaded locations. City staff is stepping up efforts to map encampments at risk of flooding during monsoon season. If individuals refuse to move from the washes after two outreach attempts, TPD will post a notice for the inhabitants to leave in line with the tier 3 process.

We are going to be kind of probably a little bit more stringent because its a safety issue, Julsing said. Weve had a lot of deaths from the unsheltered. Thats a scary thing.

Possible solutions

Champion and other experts like Dan Ranieri  the president and CEO of social services provider La Frontera with 30 years of experience working on housing issues  say other solutions are needed, such as tiny home villages and other congregate living alternatives to standard shelters.

The model of several congregated mini-homes with wraparound services like substance abuse treatment, medical care and behavioral health support has been tested in other cities like Austin, Texas.

Ranieri said Tucson could use a similar community to shelter the homeless population thats a significant size and strategically located, which can be difficult to accommodate with current zoning codes.

Champion said the city is consistently discussing other solutions, including tiny home communities, in the background.

Were having meetings with the people that build the buildings  the metal, congregate shelter buildings  and were talking about what that would look like, she said.

But being able to leave tier 2 encampments in places like the one where Reks lives is a big step, Champion noted, as the city is trying to keep those tier twos clean, and see how that goes.

Reks said she would accept a hotel room from the city if offered, but she lives with a partner and dog and worries about what would come after that.

People want us to get out. You know, there are so many homeless people, they need to leave or whatever. Right now, from what I understand, the homeless situation is bad, she said, echoing the dire sentiment underlying the homelessness crisis: Sure, there are resources, but there are only so many. And even if every shelter got filled, there wouldnt be enough.
The Pinal County election's director's resignation email was such a classic of the genre that it was possible to miss the meat of her complaint.

Addressed to County Manager Leo Lew, elections director Geraldine Roll's Tuesday note began like this: "Leo: With no regrets, I quit."

It ended, "Really, Not Respectfully, Geraldine Roll."

Those are words all of us would probably have liked to write at some point in our work lives. But the important words for our democracy were in between. There, she underlined the problems that have been cropping up especially in Republican-controlled counties around the state, where activists and officials keep forcing elections officials out through harassment and conspiracy-mongering.

"I have watched as you idly stood by when I was attacked," she wrote to Lew. "I cannot work for an individual who does not support me. The environment fostered by your team and the Board of Supervisors is toxic."

"I believe the Elections Department should not be politicized," she went on. "It is a far reach to see how you will deliver clean elections when you bend to a faction of the Republican party. Clearly, politics are the value this administration desires in a place where politics have no place: elections administration."

In a statement, Lew said he disagrees with her assessment. And in fact, it is hard to see from the outside what precisely prompted Roll's reaction. There was a conflict over GPS trackers for ballot boxes at the June 21 supervisors meeting, but it was not excessively hostile. Roll did not respond to a request for further comment.

Still, it's important to note she is the third elections director in a Republican-controlled Arizona county to resign in the last year after similar complaints of political interference or harassment.

Republican in a GOP county quits

In Arizona, the county recorders are elected and their duties include registering voters, sending out mail-in ballots and verifying the signature of those ballots mailed back. The elections directors are hired by the counties and handle election-day balloting as well as counting votes.

Last year, in the runup to the 2022 midterm election, both the county recorder and the elections director in Yavapai County stepped down, citing "nastiness" from the public.

A lot of it is the nastiness that we have dealt with, then-Yavapai County Recorder Leslie Hoffman told the Associated Press last year. Im a Republican recorder living in a Republican county where the candidate that they wanted to win won by 2-to-1 in this county and still getting grief, and so is my staff.

The county's elections director, Lynn Constabile, left for much the same reasons, after 18 years on the job.

The situation in Cochise County has been even more drawn out and troubling. Last October, the two GOP members of the three-member board of supervisors tried to force a complete hand-count of the general election, responding to calls from the right wing that hand counts are the answer to fears of a manipulated machine count, even though machine counts are more accurate.

The Cochise County Attorney said such a count would be illegal, and elections director Lisa Marra refused to proceed with it. The two Republicans on the board of supervisors, Peggy Judd and Tom Crosby, then sued Marra in her professional and personal capacities. They withdrew their lawsuit a few days later.

Marra, a respected 5-year veteran of the job, resigned in January and filed a legal claim with the county, saying that the supervisors were parroting conspiracy theories and putting her at risk. She won a $130,000 settlement in May.

In the meantime, Cochise County hired a new elections director, but lost the other two staff members in the department, one to a retirement, and the other to a resignation. It's questionable how things will go in next year's general election with the same conspiracist supervisors still in the majority.

Pinal's election problems

Pinal County is arguably in more desperate need of steady leadership on elections than either of these two counties. A flawed 2022 primary election caused concern and led to the hiring of an emergency interim director, but was followed by a flubbed general election in November. Hundreds of ballots went uncounted, and the counts were not properly reconciled.

As documented by the publication VoteBeat May 5, the woman brought in on an emergency basis, Virginia Ross, had failed and fled before the problems were discovered.

So there is reason to watch carefully how elections are run in the county to Tucson's north. But there is equal need to let a competent official put her hands under the hood and make things work.

Leading Republicans in the county have been turning against Roll in recent weeks. In a June 21 email, obtained and published by VoteBeat, Pinal County GOP chair Belinda Rodriguez questioned Roll's competence and warned the supervisors  all five of whom are Republicans  she could put their jobs at risk.

"YOU, the Board of Supervisors cant afford another botched election," she wrote. "There were people who asked publicly for your resignation in the last primary fiasco. I know they will DEMAND your resignation if you allow this to happen again."

At the June 21 Pinal County supervisors meeting, GOP activists, including Rodriguez, questioned why Roll had unilaterally decided to end a contract with a company that provided GPS trackers for ballot containers.

She explained that the county's leased trackers were attached to the "cages" that contained the ballot boxes, not on the boxes themselves, and therefore did not track the actual ballot boxes in transit once the boxes were removed from the cages.

"I want to know where the ballots are, so weve looked at other tracking devices, and theyre going to be far more effective because we can put them on the ballot boxes, and theyre going to be substantially less expensive, plus we can own them."

More GOP activists stepped up to slam Roll at the meeting for acting unilaterally on the GPS question. One, a woman from the town of Maricopa, warned the supervisors, "You guys work for us, not for anybody else. We're the ones who voted you in, and we can take you out  I don't mean that in a violent way."

So while it's unclear exactly what Lew, the county manager, failed to protect Roll from, it's clear that the supervisors were all being pressured by their party to tighten her leash.

That's the danger in these counties where Donald Trump's false claims that he was robbed of re-election have resonated strongly down to today. Some will always claim that they are being wronged by the election processes. And the supervisors in these counties have to acknowledge the complaints or risk their futures.

Bowing to the whims of the extremists is no way to run an election.
The following is the opinion and analysis o the writer:

In coming summers, daily high temperatures in parts of Arizona will surpass 120F for days on end, causing the power grid to collapse. The result  millions of Arizonans stuck in scorching temperatures without AC  would overwhelm hospitals with heat stroke patients. But at those temperatures roads will melt, making transportation to hospitals nearly impossible.

While I was Tucson lead for the Arizona Youth Climate Coalition, I created a plan to protect us. This plan was developed with help from experts, including Dr. David Hondula, whose study about heat wave dangers was published in The New York Times.

The plan has four parts: upgrade the power grid and roads, expand cooling centers, and equip them with backup power. I, along with others in the coalition, spoke to local legislators and power providers about implementing the plan.

Those conversations confirmed my worst fears. A Pima County Supervisor explained Pima County found that many of their roads werent prepared for coming heatwaves. But Pima County didnt test roads within the limits of any city, and city representatives said they hadnt tested their roads. A City of Tucson representative told me the city had purchased one portable power generator for cooling centers, making the city prepared for short term power blackouts covering a small area. But the generator would do little if a power blackout were to cover the whole city, especially considering Tucsons cooling centers only have the capacity for the citys homeless population.

A representative from a local power provider said that in the event of a power shortage, they would import the power from a nearby state. But, as they pointed out, this only works if temperatures are reasonably cool in nearby states. In the event of a serious regional heatwave, they explained, everyone in Arizona, California, Oregon, and Washington would face brownouts and blackouts.

All the local government representatives we met with said theyd try to prepare, but they cant do much without the state governments help. So I emailed Gov. Katie Hobbs explaining the danger Arizona is in and what needs to be done. In her brief response, she said that power regulation is the responsibility of the Arizona Corporation Commission. She ignored my detailed concerns about Arizonas road and cooling center insufficiencies. Essentially, Gov. Hobbs said that she will do absolutely nothing to save the hundreds of thousands, if not millions, of Arizonans who will be put in mortal danger in coming heatwaves.

If enough people contact her about this, I hope she will be persuaded to take action. In the meantime, if the forecast shows temperatures reaching 120 for multiple days in a row, Im leaving. I recommend you do the same.
The following is the opinion and analysis of the writer.

In the upcoming primary election for Ward 1 Council Member, I ask voters who have supported me in previous elections to support Lane Santa Cruzs candidacy for a second term.

At a recent community meeting, I beamed with joy as Lane made her case for why shes running for re-election. Ill do my best to summarize what I took away from that defining speech.

First, as a mother of four and as a lifelong resident of the south and west side, Lane has prioritized key initiatives that boost economic opportunity and quality of life in Tucson. As everyday costs skyrocket, Lane has worked with Mayor and Council to adopt fare-free transit so that all Tucsonans have access to transportation regardless of income level or ability.

As Council Member, Lane helped to create the Citys first Small Business Program after listening to business leaders in Ward 1. Shes ensured that our regions entrepreneurs have access to capital, workshops, and peer mentorship.

Lane also brought Arizonas first-ever Participatory Budgeting Project to Ward 1. Working with neighborhood advocates, 21 projects totaling $450,000 were voted on by community residents themselves. These projects included citizen-led neighborhood beautification projects, early childhood programming for families, and funding to construct the Cushing Street Skate Park, just to name a few.

A champion for working families, Lane has fought to maintain and expand our city pools, parks, and after school programs. Shes secured federal funds to create the Mission Manor Aquatic Center, which will include a therapeutic pool, accessible amenities for seniors, and a splashpad for kids.

With the protection of our environment and families in mind, Lane has also secured millions in funding from state and federal partners to keep PFAS out of our water supply.

And because Lane knows that housing costs are out of control, I worked with the Ward 1 office to introduce state legislation protecting renters from catastrophic rent increases. Locally, Lane has led the way to create a city-wide ordinance that allows families to build casitas on their properties  a progressive zoning approach that will bring down costs and keep Tucsonans housed.

Above all, Im asking for you to consider voting for Council Member Santa Cruz because she is exactly the kind of leader that we can be proud of  and she has the track record to prove it.

If you care about reproductive rights and protecting an Arizonans right to abortion, vote for Lane  shes the only candidate in this race endorsed by Planned Parenthood Advocates of Arizona.

If you believe in standing shoulder to shoulder with the LGBTQ+ community, Lane is your candidate.

If you were proud when local leaders told former Governor Doug Ducey to stop playing games during the COVID-19 pandemic, Lane was one of those elected officials who wasnt afraid to stand up for more vaccines and testing. She acted quickly to make sure federal dollars went out to those who needed them most: essential workers, small businesses, veterans, local non-profits, the arts community, and working families.

Lastly, if you are just as concerned about the increasing traffic congestion west of the Interstate 19 on Tucsons south side as I am, then Lane is your choice for Ward 1. Thanks to Lanes leadership, we successfully included $15 million in the state budget to fund the multimodal Drexel Bridge between Irvington and Valencia Roads.

In just a few paragraphs, Ive done what Lanes opponent refused to do at the community forum I attended: campaign with grace and humility about the real issues facing Tucsonans today.

We dont need empty words and nasty rhetoric from divisive candidates like Miguel Ortega. We need effective leaders like Lane Santa Cruz who are in public service to do the hard work and make sure there is representation of our barrios, history, and people.
Uppity

Re: the June 26 letter Dont beg for trouble.

As a member of the LGBTQ community I wanted to express my appreciation for the letter writer who was okay with our being who we are as long as we kept it quiet. I have notified all of my LGBTQ friends that it might be better if we didnt act so uppity!

Dan Nelson

Foothills

Road use tax for EVs

My car insurance company charges me based on the number of miles I drive. They know how many miles Ive driven because an electronic device plugged into the computer port in my car tells them so. It doesnt tell them where I drive or where I am. Only how far I have driven from the last stop. They total up the miles and bill me accordingly. Clean and simple.

A tax on EVs based on mileage, ie: road use, obtained the same way would fairly makeup for the fuel tax now not paid by them. It only requires that all EVs be so equipped. No GPS involved, no government oversight of ones driving, no noses need be out of joint. Clean and simple.

Dale Emmel

Southeast side

Disagree on EPA small particulates

Re: the June 27 letter EPA proposal on small particulates.

I respectfully disagree with Lea Marquez Peterson, Member of the Arizona Corporation Commission.

Fine particulate matter air pollution (PM 2.5) from fossil fuel combustion has been shown to contribute to nearly one in five deaths worldwide (Vohra et al. Environ. Res., 195 (2021), Article 110754). The worldwide annual death toll of 8 million people from PM 2.5 air pollution includes 350,000 premature deaths in the United States.

Our representative government, both at the federal level, including through the Environmental Protection Agency, and at the state level, should put the health and welfare of our citizens above the interests of the entities that emit hazardous amounts of PM 2.5 pollution. The externalities or indirect costs of PM 2.5 pollution, including higher health care costs and the economic costs of premature deaths, should be borne by the polluters and not by taxpayers and ratepayers.

Mark Peterson

Foothills

EPA versus NAM

Letters championing the National Association of Manufacturers study finding new EPA air quality rules would devastate our economy brought to mind battles between government scientists and the tobacco industry over the health risks of smoking that began in the 1960s and resurfaced with the introduction of e-cigarettes. Other battles between government scientists and those on industry payrolls have occurred over opioids, asbestos, lead, fracking and even sugar.

Since the 1970 Powell Memorandum, Chambers of Commerce and the Koch donor networks made concerted efforts to destroy public trust in our government to minimize regulations on corporations.

Hardly against profits, the Securities and Exchange Commission determined climate change is bad for the economy and responded to investor demands by requiring publicly traded companies to disclose ways the businesses assess, measure and manage climate-related risks.

To believe the NAM study over the EPA and SEC tells me the authors drank the Koch-funded Kool-Aid. That useless sugar is bad for us and bad for business.

Dee Maitland

Marana

The Ron-Speak continues

The latest fantasy comment by Ron DeSantis was immensely amusing. He chided a reporter who asked about his opinion of the Jan. 6 insurrection and said that we need not dwell on the past. Ok Ron, sounds good to me! Tell everybody that the Confederacy lost the war and their so-called heroes are guilty of treason, book banning doesnt work, and all have rights under the constitution of the United States! Happy Independence Day!

Alan Barreuther

Foothills

Name-calling doesnt accomplish anything

Re: the June 25 letter Finger Rock buyouts.

Whew, sorry that someones envy shows up in a Letter To The Editor, very interesting.

Without folks that have resources to afford houses in the Foothills many of our cultural establishments would not exist. Too, perhaps and not sure when you buy a house along the Finger Rock wash you werent aware of potential problems, perhaps you were and didnt influence your buying there, perhaps.

Dont refer to your fellow Tucsonans as stupid, what does that accomplish, absolutely nothing, dont we tell our children not to name call, hope so.

Binky Luckhurst Woodward

Foothills

Ethics issues

Its a sad day in the United States when our Supreme Court needs to have ethics standards written for them. All their rulings should now be in question.

Deb Childers
Its very simple. Do you see the smoke? Thats where shes at now.

Hearing those words is how Holocaust survivor Bella Eisenman found out her mother was killed in the Auschwitz concentration camp in July 1944.

Her story is the first one shared in Humans of the Holocaust, the newest exhibit at the Sherwin Miller Museum of Jewish Art in Tulsa.

The exhibit by Tel Aviv-based photojournalist Erez Kaganovitz is deeply inspired by popular digital blog Humans of New York, which seeks to tell stories of people from all walks of life.

Kaganovitz narrowed down the topic to something close to him, as he is the grandson of Holocaust survivors.

In an increasingly visual world, the photographs and stories that go with them provide a powerful and relatable medium, Kaganovitz said on the Humans of the Holocaust website. The exhibit engages viewers with the human stories behind every photo, and by extension, helps them imagine the millions of untold stories.

The exhibit consists of 30 photographs, all with stories of survival and loss. Bella Eisenmans story begins the exhibit, but along the way you meet a variety of people, including survivors of the infamous twin experiments, a Jewish soldier and Gidon Lev, who is known for sharing his story with over 450,000 followers on TikTok.

Immortalizing the stories is important to not only Kaganovitz, but also Sofia Thornblad, who is the director of collections and exhibits at the Sherwin Miller Museum of Art.

Thornblad spoke at the exhibits opening June 16, telling viewers to find the joy and human emotion in the stories, as that was something the Nazis were unable to take away.

A collective fear has been held for some time that once the last survivor has passed away, people will forget about the Holocaust, said Thornblad in her opening speech. With antisemitism on the rise, this is an especially worrisome fear.

According to a study by the Anti-Defamation League, antisemitic attacks were at an all-time high in 2022, with almost 4,000 antisemitic instances reported in the U.S. This is a 36% increase from 2021, and the highest reported since the study began in 1979.

I think we are seeing some similar hatred that was in the 1930s in Germany, Thornblad said. You see this snowballing effect of hatred, not just antisemitism  its homophobia, racism, sexism, all those horrible isms that just pile on top of each other and contribute to one another, as well.

Thornblad is a recent addition to the Sherwin Miller Museum of Arts staff as she recently finished her masters degree in museum studies and has a bachelors in Holocaust and genocide studies from Keene State College in New Hampshire.

This is something Ive decided in my head: Its going to be my responsibility to carry these stories with me, Thornblad said. Its a big responsibility.

Thornblad said she is in one of the last generations to be able to interview Holocaust survivors and believes in showcasing their stories as a way to combat hate.

During her opening speech Thornblad quoted Anne Frank: Despite everything, I believe people are really good at heart.

Thornblad said she shares a similar belief to Frank and believes that just like hate is taught, compassion can be, too.

She said that when educating people about atrocities like the Holocaust, it is important not to shy away from the dark truths but to also teach compassion for groups that may not be part of our everyday life.

Oklahoma legislators passed a law requiring Holocaust education as a requirement for sixth-12th grade students in public schools. The bill went into effect in the 2022-2023 school year, and conferences were recently held in Tulsa and Oklahoma City to help equip teachers with the tools needed to teach about such a tragic subject.

Since 2014, Tulsa Public Schools has brought its eighth grade students to the Sanditen/Kaiser Holocaust Center inside the Sherwin Miller Museum of Jewish Art. Since then, more than 27,000 students have visited the museum, and over 30,000 students from surrounding states have received tours, as well.

Cathy Kass has been a volunteer docent for the museum since 2019. She often leads school tours through the exhibit and tells each of them about Holocaust survivor and author Elie Wiesel, whom she saw speak over 30 years ago.

Kass spreads the late authors message to every tour group: Once you hear the story, you become a witness, and a witness has to then tell the story.

Exhibit 'The Humans of The Holocaust' exhibit is on display at the Sherwin Miller Museum of Art from June 16-Dec. 31. The museum is located at 2021 E. 71st St. Hours: Monday-Tuesday: 10 a.m.5 p.m. Wednesday: Closed (scheduled tours only) Thursday-Friday: 10 a.m.5 p.m. Saturday-Sunday Noon-5 p.m. The museum is closed to observe federal holidays as well as Jewish holidays. Ticket information: Adults (age 21+) $6.50, seniors (age 55+) $5.50, students (ages 13-21) $3.50, groups of 10+ $3/person Free admission: Museum members, school teachers with school ID, Blue Star Families and uniformed service members. For more: jewishmuseumtulsa.org

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Two questions tend to surface in the minds of those observing a piece of contemporary art for the first time. One is, How did they do that? The other is, Why did they do that?

The new exhibit at Philbrook Museum of Art will give patrons the chance to explore those questions in a hands-on way, with special interactive stations that will let museum visitors create their own unique worlds out of basic, everyday items.

New Realms: Art Lab is an innovative exhibit that uses contemporary art works from the Philbrooks permanent collection as a launching pad for the viewers own creative impulses.

Weve heard from a lot of families who tell us how much they love touring the museums grounds and taking part in our interactive programs and walking through the galleries, said Jenny Fisher, the museums manager of youth and family audiences and curator of the new exhibit.

But one thing weve often heard is that people arent really sure how to look at art, especially contemporary art, and how to talk about it with their children, Fisher said. One thing Ive always been interested in is building bridges between art and people and finding new ways to engage people with art. So I thought about an exhibit that would engage people of all ages deeply with certain works of art, and then give them the opportunity to experiment with what the artist was thinking about the piece they created, right there in the gallery.

To help make the interactive experience as accessible and approachable as possible, Fisher selected works from Philbrooks permanent collection, as well as a few pieces on loan from other venues, that make use of common household objects and transform them into the alternate realities of the various artists visions.

Some of the works that will serve as the launching pads for visitors creative work are recent acquisitions to the Philbrook collection that have not been put on display before.

One is Raul de Nieves The Leap into the Sun, an 81-inch circular, 3D collage work made with plastic toys and flowers, fabric, beads, shredded paper and other items. While the pieces that make up the image reflect the artists childhood memories, he once said of the work that his purpose was to just put everything in a blender in order for it to build its own new life.

Another work in the show is by the American surrealist George J. Marinko. Titled simply Still Life, at first glance the painting looks like a large vase of flowers set against the sort of pastoral background that was Thomas Hart Bentons stock in trade. Upon closer examination, what might at first be taken for flowers are instead gears, electric fans, block-and-tackle setups and other such man-made objects.

Its a very fun piece because it challenges peoples preconceptions of what beauty can be, Fisher said.

Other pieces in the show, Fisher said, have been in the Philbrook collection for some time, and while they are the work of well-known American artists, they still require some sort of storytelling to help audiences understand the purpose and import of these pieces.

Two of these that will be on display are by Robert Rauschenberg, part of his series of Cardbird creations.

When these works have been on display, they always get a reaction from viewers, Fisher said. Usually its people asking, How can this be art? Its made of cardboard!

But thats what this exhibit is all about, she said, getting people to see not just works of art, but the materials artists use to make art and the ideas that are behind the art.

The exhibits opening area, titled Enter the Experiment, leads to a space with Rachel Roses video art work, Lake Valley, which depicts an unusual pet animal  an amalgam of dog, rabbit and fox  that leaves its bland suburban home for a surreal adventure in a nearby wood.

Roses animation combines hand-drawn work with collage to create this unusual world, which is shown in a space lined with plush carpeting upon which viewers may recline, as well as a bench formed out of corrugated cardboard, as they watch the video.

We wanted that space to have the feeling of being in ones living room or TV room, Fisher said.

Once visitors have gone through the first area of the exhibit, they can move on to the interactive sections of the exhibit, each of which deals with specific aspects of the art works just observed.

In Shadowland, for example, three big-screen-TV-sized light boards are set up, and visitors can hang multi-colored shapes on them, which will alter how the light appears on the white wall opposite. Soft orbs and cubes are available to create shadow patterns or new spaces within the room.

The next room is Cardboard Dimension, an area filled with hundreds of examples of that ubiquitous container, the cardboard box, which visitors can use to build and dismantle their unique creations on an epic scale.

The final section is the Makers Realm, which includes baskets filled with plastic shapes that can be fitted together in myriad ways. For those who need to give their imaginations a boost, a large wheel affixed to a wall can be spun to provide a prompt for how to begin building ones sculpture.

Tulsas Fab Lab manufactured the pieces used in the Makers Realm, while Green Bay Packaging of Tulsa supplied the cardboard boxes.

While the interactive elements are for all ages, Fisher stressed that this is something more than the kind of hands-on activities one might find in a childrens museum.

Everything is very strongly rooted in the art we will have on display, she said. We are wanting to facilitate ways for people of all ages to consider how an artist might manipulate and transform everyday materials into works of art that truly create these new worlds, these alternative realities. And we want people to understand the fact that there are things all around us that you can use to create art.

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A unique collaboration among the states top arts funding organizations helped to spearhead the Oklahoma Legislature to approve an investment of $10 million in rebuilding Oklahomas arts and cultural sectors.

The money will come from the states allocation under the American Rescue Plan Act and was approved by a majority of the Legislature.

The Oklahoma Arts Council, in partnership with Arts Alliance Tulsa and Allied Arts in Oklahoma City, worked together for close to two years to lobby for passage of the proposal, which OAC Executive Director Amber Sharples calls transformational.

The new bill became law on May 26.

We had conversations about developing a proposal and leveraging the public and private aspects to show a unified front, to say this was not something a state agency could carry, or that private concerns could carry it alone, Sharples said. It took us coming together to get across the importance of supporting our creative sector.

The Oklahoma arts and cultural sector is a $4.5 billion industry, which provides more than 38,000 jobs throughout the state, according to figures provided by the OAC. However, the sector reported unprecedented losses of more than $43 million during the height of the pandemic, with more than half of the states arts and cultural organizations losing 50% of their annual revenue.

These losses were perhaps most keenly felt in the states rural areas, which rely more heavily on state aid to provide for their communities. That was why, Sharples said, it was a priority for all involved that 50% of the ARPA funds would go to rural communities.

Sharples said the Legislatures approval of the bill is an indication that the state government understands the importance of Oklahomas arts and cultural sector as an asset strengthening our states ability to compete for jobs and new industries.

This transformational investment will pay long-term dividends in creative workforce development, talent retention, education and more, she said.

One reason the $10 million in ARPA funds is considered transformational is that the money can be used for things that regular grants from organizations such as the OAC cannot ordinarily fund.

Normally, the funding that we provide must be used for delivery of services, specific programming and the like, Sharples said. They cant be used for building or technology upgrades, or any other tangible infrastructure projects. That isnt a restriction in this case. This will spark vital community and economic development across all 77 counties.

Sharples said information about how organizations may apply for the grants will be made available at a later date, but the hope is that the ARPA funds should become available to state arts organizations in six to nine months.

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Caring for two young children already and several months pregnant with her third, Jaimee Collett arrived in Tulsa with one priority: to find a safer place for her family.

We were living in a domestic violence situation and needed a place to go, she said. And God brought us here.

Eight years later, Collett is more convinced than ever that God is looking out for her. And the best evidence, she said, is where she and her children eventually found a home.

Its the nicest place Ive ever lived as a single parent, thats for sure, said Collett, one of the original residents of the River West apartment community in west Tulsa. I really like that we do not feel poor because of our surroundings or the way that the neighborhood looks.

The largest ever affordable housing endeavor in Tulsa, the $180 million River West project, which aims to transform one of citys most neglected neighborhoods into a thriving mixed-income housing development, is entering its sixth and final phase just three years after construction began.

A federal Choice Neighborhoods project focusing on the Eugene Field neighborhood, the effort includes not just improved housing options but also various wraparound services to support residents.

The Tulsa Housing Authority, with co-developer The Michaels Organization, reported last week that $25 million in financing has been secured for the final phase.

The biggest phase yet, it will add three apartment buildings comprising 80 units, bringing total River West housing to 435 mixed-income apartments. The phase should be complete by summer 2024.

Jeff Hall, THA vice president of development services, said it feels surreal that the end of the project is now in sight.

We didnt start construction on the first phase until April of 2020, he said. And now were starting construction on the final phase just three years later, and in spite of COVID. Its pretty, pretty amazing.

Mayor G.T. Bynum praised the effort, noting that it represents the citywide recognition that more housing units need to be developed in Tulsa.

This project is just the beginning of our efforts to provide access to more housing opportunities, and Im thankful for Tulsa Housing Authority and everyone who played a role in seeing this project through.

The phase five units are still under construction, but the first four phases are all leasing now, Hall said. The success so far, he added, has only reaffirmed what project backers believed going in.

A lot of people ask, Will mixed income work? and our answer has always been Yeah, it will work. But now we can point to the proof, Hall said.

Some of that proof, he said, is in the high return rate for families who were relocated from older apartments that were torn down to make way for the new ones. More than 93% have come back.

Also, he said, theres the demand for the market-rate units, which make up 26% of the overall development.

Our wait lists for the market units are incredibly high, and we anticipate the same for phase six, Hall said. Anyone that has a choice in where they want to live are choosing here at a pretty surprising rate.

The final 80 units will include 24 market-rate units, along with 39 subsidized replacement units and 17 additional tax credit units.

The two- and three-story structures, which will be built on the site of the former Brightwaters Apartments, will front Historic Route 66 and include balconies.

Hall said the success of River West has paved the way for a second Tulsa Choice Neighborhoods project, this one greenlighted for north Tulsa.

THA and the city were awarded a second Choice Neighborhoods Implementation grant in September 2022 for the redevelopment of the Comanche Park Apartments as part of the Envision Comanche/36N project plan.

Return rate

The idea for River West, which traces back over a decade, first became a reality in 2017 when THA and the city of Tulsa were awarded a $30 million federal CNI grant.

The citys part included $26 million in infrastructure and stormwater improvements.

The project also received funding support from the Anne and Henry Zarrow Foundation and the George Kaiser Family Foundation.

Phase one relocation, affecting 69 families, began in April 2019.

Colletts family was among those who were relocated and chose to return.

They now live in a River West townhouse, where she homeschools her children: Rylee, 14; Adelaide, 12; and Mireilee, 8.

Collett, who works at Aim High Academy, said she hopes River West will be the blessing for other families that it has been for hers.

You cant change your choices in life, she said. But this does give you the option to choose better for your family.

One of the lessons Collett is teaching her children is to appreciate and help take care of their home. They do their part, picking up litter whenever they see it around the community.

Whenever I see this place given to us and made for us, I know that it took a lot of people to get it there  a lot of people advocating for us. We just want to help keep it nice, Collett said.

Project partner Urban Strategies Inc., the organization working directly with residents, providing relocation and wraparound services, is involved with similar projects in 22 cities. The return rate for residents at River West is the highest of any of its projects.

I think a lot of it is our collaboration, said Haley Buzzard, senior project manager. We have some really great partners.

Family support specialists work directly with residents, building relationships. Partner organizations help with job training and economic mobility support.

As we see people returning, theyre wanting to do more, Buzzard said. Theyre wanting to get that job training, and theyre wanting to better their lives.

She said after the project finishes next year, Urban Strategies will still have a presence on site to continue outreach.

Officials said the new north Tulsa project makes Tulsa one of only a few cities nationwide to have two active Choice Neighborhoods projects. It brings Tulsas total Choice Neighborhoods investment from HUD to $85 million.

Hall said the expectation with the upcoming project is to replicate the recipe of success at River West.

We actually just submitted for that first phase of financing, he said. Its just a testament of all of our partners, USI, our financing partners, and then of course our team here at THA.

For more information, go to riverwesttulsa.com.

River West impact Residents of River West are already experiencing positive outcomes from the redevelopment project. Among them:  Average annual household income for residents has risen from $8,811 in 2018 to $20,097 in 2022, a 128% increase.  41% of adult residents are employed, an 8% increase from 2021.  Adult residents reporting they do not have adequate income to support basic needs has decreased 48% since 2018.  58% of school-age residents are enrolled in out-of-school programming, up from 29% in 2021.  86% of target residents are connected to a primary care provider, an 18% increase from 2018. Source: Urban Strategies Inc.

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On Saturday night, Gov. Kevin Stitt and Oklahoma's congressional delegation, led by Sen. James Lankford, have formally requested federal disaster assistance for 19 counties affected by the storms and strong winds last month.

In a press release from Oklahoma Department of Emergency Management and Homeland Security, it states Stitt has requested aid for the following counties: Beaver, Cimarron, Comanche, Cotton, Craig, Creek, Delaware, Harper, Jefferson, Love, Major, Mayes, McCurtain, Payne, Pushmataha, Rogers, Stephens, Tulsa and Woodward.

"During a series of storms on June 15-16 and June 17-18, Oklahoma experienced destructive winds up to 100 miles per hour and multiple tornadoes causing power outages for more than 560,000 homes and businesses statewide," the release states. "In these 19 counties alone, the storms resulted in more than $12.6 million in eligible damages and response costs. Assessments in Comanche and Tulsa counties have identified more than 230 homes and businesses damaged, including 66 with major damage."

If approved, the press release states Federal Emergency Management Agency funding would help with reimbursements for debris removal, infrastructure and utility repairs and costs associated with responding to the storms. It would also assist municipalities, counties and rural electric cooperatives.

The press release goes on to say that the state has submitted a request for a disaster declaration through the U.S. Small Business Administration to help residents and businesses in Comanche and Tulsa counties recover from damages. The declaration would allow affected homeowners to seek SBA low interest disaster loans. The release states the loan program would also be available to assist businesses that sustained economic injury due to the storms.

In a separate press release, Lankford said he and fellow Republicans - Sen. Markwayne Mullin and Reps. Tom Cole, Frank Lucas, Kevin Hern, Stephanie Bice and Josh Brecheen - have sent a request to President Biden backing Stitt's call for relief.

"We write in support of the formal request from the State of Oklahoma, through the office of Governor Kevin Stitt, that was submitted on July 1, 2023, for major disaster declaration," the release states.

State Senate President Pro Tem Greg Treat, R-Oklahoma City, signed an executive order on June 20 declaring a state of emergency while Stitt and Lt. Gov. Matt Pinnell were out of state.

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OKLAHOMA CITY  The Department of Public Safety will spend $80 million to upgrade its communications system and build a driving track and firing range.

Lawmakers approved the funding during the last legislative session.

The agency got $20 million to upgrade its wireless information network, called OKWIN.

Emergency responders use the 800 MHz trunked public safety communications radio system to communicate. The system currently has equipment on towers so old that replacement parts cant be purchased, said Capt. Preston Lay, the agencys legislative liaison.

The funds will allow DPS to update the system and double the number of people who can use it, said Oklahoma Highway Patrol Chief Patrick Mays.

The system allows different agencies to communicate, Mays said, adding the upgrade has been four to five years in the making.

It doesnt provide coverage to 100% of Oklahoma but will provide coverage in most of Oklahoma, Lay said.

The agency will upgrade 20 of the 55 sites it has in the state, Lay said.

The agency also got nearly $50 million for a training center that will include a firing range, driving track and area for bomb disposal and storage.

The Oklahoma Highway Patrol currently has to borrow facilities in locations such as Oklahoma County or Edmond, Lay said.

The Oklahoma Highway Patrol has been in existence since 1937 and has never owned its own firearms range, Mays said. We have had to work around other schedules. We have been blessed with the fact that agencies have not charged us to use their firearms ranges, which has been a help. It is long past due we own a firearms range.

In addition, the agency has to pay $75,000 to use the driving track in Burns Flat, Mays said.

Burns Flat is in Washita County in western Oklahoma.

The new track will have traffic signs, stop lights and railroad crossings, all things that responders need to take into consideration when driving in emergency mode, Mays said.

The Burns Flat facility does not have the necessary signage, Mays said.

The agency is working with the Commissioners of the Land Office to lease a property in Lincoln County, Lay said.

Early talks involve leasing up to 640 acres, said David White, Commissioners of the Land Office communications director.

The agency doesnt plan to close its training center at 3600 N. Martin Luther Ave. in Oklahoma City.

Mays said the new facility will include a building with a classroom, offices and an area to service vehicles.

Other law enforcement entities, such as the Oklahoma Fire Marshal, Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics and Dangerous Drugs Control and Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation will also be able to use the facility, Mays said.

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In a 2005 U.S. Supreme Court decision, the posting of the Ten Commandments in a public (government) place did not violate the Constitution, so long as it did not push (promote) religion.

State Superintendent Ryan Walters is calling for the posting of the Ten Commandments, which, according to the Christian Bible (Old Testament, also referred to as part of the Hebrew Bible, Torah and Talmud) were given directly to Moses by God, hundreds of years prior to the birth of Christianity.

However, Walters has stated the reason for his call is "to promote Christianity and Western heritage" in the classroom.

Apparently, Walters is openly admitting he is using his governmental position to promote (push) the oft-stated but constitutionally false claim that the U.S. is a Christian nation, which might make the posting of the Ten Commandments, supposedly received by Moses some time before the existence of Christianity, unconstitutional.

I guess we'll see.

In the meantime, I wish Walters would spend his time, expertise and energy to provide a high-quality public education to the 700,000 children enrolled in Oklahoma's public schools and less time acting like an evangelistic preacher attempting to co-opt Oklahoma's public schools to create conversion-ready souls to his version of religion.

Letters to the editor are encouraged. Send letters to tulsaworld.com/opinion/submitletter.

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The first batch of braised scad fish will be shipped to the United States from Quang Nam Province in central Vietnam on July 20 after Ba Ba Hoi food processing cooperative in Tam Ky City, the capital of the central province, inked a deal with LNS International Corporation to export the product to the American market on Saturday.

The first shipment via official channels will weigh an estimated 10 metric tons of braised scad fish.

In addition braised scad fish, other products and food made by the cooperative will be exported to the United States.

In the hope of introducing Quang Nam Provinces specialties and high-quality food to foreign consumers and satisfying them, the cooperative has studied and applied modern technology to its food production and processing operations.

Among its popular products are braised scad fish, braised goby, caramelized dried squid, cha ca (fish nuggets), and banh chung xanh (green square glutinous rice cakes).

Ca nuc rim, or braised scad fish in English, is a tasty and familiar dish in which scad fish is cooked with sugar, chili, garlic and fish sauce, said a representative from the Quang Nam-based cooperative.

The fresh fish is sourced from the fishing grounds off Quang Nam Province.

The scad fish is processed at a factory run by the cooperative in the coastal commune of Tam Quang in Nui Thanh District before being transported to its headquarters in Tam Ky City for braising, and packaging.

These steps meet all stringent food safety requirements set by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.

Braised scad fish and various products produced by the cooperative are available in the Vietnamese market.

LNS International Corporation is one of major suppliers of Vietnamese food to the United States, Japan, Europe and Singapore.

Representatives from Ba Ba Hoi food processing cooperative and LNS International Corporation are pictured at the signing ceremony on July 1, 2023. Photo: Supplied

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Police in Hanoi are probing into a case in which two employees at the Nguyen Sinh banh mi eatery located on Ly Quoc Su Street in Hang Trong Ward under Hoan Kiem District attacked two diners a few days ago.

Police in Hang Trong Ward said on Sunday that they are preparing documents and evidence to handle the two employees at the popular eatery of banh mi, which is a Vietnamese baguette filled with paste, cold cuts, herbs, cucumber, chili sauce and pickles, for their violent behavior.

N.K.A. said on her Facebook account that she, her mother, and her younger brother visited the Nguyen Sinh banh mi eatery for dinner at 6:00 pm on June 30.

A. recounted that she brought a can of coconut milk to the eatery, but after an employee told her that diners are not allowed to bring drinks to the eatery, she immediately put the can on a seat, and apologized for her inattention.

However, some employees at the eatery kept criticizing her.

A. felt insulted, so she and her family members decided to leave the eatery, and also gave these employees some words of advice on their behavior.

Nevertheless, two workers at the eatery assaulted A. and her younger brother.

After suffering the violent attack, the diners reported this incident to the police.

At the police station, the owner of the eatery and two employees sent an apology to the victims.

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Investigators of the Ho Chi Minh City police filed criminal charges against Duong Minh Tam, a 27-year-old resident of Tan Binh District, for allegedly hacking into a bank to steal VND10 billion (US$425,000), on Saturday.

The police received a denunciation letter from a bank in Ho Chi Minh City on June 21 that accused Tam of illegally getting into the banks information system to misappropriate the huge amount of money.

Police officers made an urgent search of Tams house, and issued an arrest warrant for him on the same day.

Investigation results showed that Tam opened a bank account at the bank on November 23, 2022.

He registered for the banks internet banking and mobile banking services via the eKYC electronic customer identification platform on May 23.

The transaction limit of online banking services is not higher than VND100 million ($4,240) a day.

Tam continued to open an online savings account valued at VND1 million ($42.4).

As per the banks regulations, Tam is allowed to pledge his savings to borrow money online on the banks app, with the maximum lending amount at 85 percent of the pledge. The amount does not exceed VND2 billion ($84,820) per transaction.

As such, with his VND1 million savings account, Tam could only borrow a maximum VND850,000 ($36).

However, Tam hacked the banks financial data, and falsified his pledge by multiplying the savings value up, from VND1 million to VND51,244 billion ($2.2 billion).

Between May 23 and June 9, Tam made seven withdrawals and transferred over VND10.5 billion ($445,315) into his own account.

After that, he transferred more than VND500 million ($21,205) back to the bank. As a result, he successfully stole VND10 billion from the bank.

Tam withdrew VND6.5 billion (275,670) from his bank account for spending, while the bank uncovered the scam before he used the rest.

The police are expanding the investigation into the hacking.

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Japans Mikazuki Hotel Group and authorities of Vietnams central Da Nang City have coordinated to inaugurate and put into use a flyover with Japanese architectural features to mark 50 years of diplomatic ties between the two countries.

The Mikazuki pedestrian bridge was opened to the public in Xuan Thieu Tourist Area in Hoa Hiep Nam Ward of the citys Lien Chieu District following an inauguration ceremony jointly held on Saturday by the group and the local administration, the Vietnam News Agency reported.

The Japanese-styled flyover is nearly 13 meters high and over 140 meters long, running from the Da Nang - Mikazuki Resort and Spa and spanning Nguyen Tat Thanh Street in the direction to the sea.

The bridge, with a floor area of approximately 655 square meters, will create conditions for people and visitors to cross the road in the most convenient and safest way, chairman of Mikazuki Hotel Group Odaka Yoshimune said.

This is also a place for visitors to contemplate Da Nang beaches as well as the beautiful scenery of the city, the chairman said.

The overpass, which costs VND42 billion (nearly US$1.8 million), was designed with modern Japanese architectural style, with its overall shape inspired by the waves of the sea, creating a sense of relaxation and a harmonious connection with the surrounding landscape.

The bridge has two watching towers each equipped with a steel spiral staircase along with an elevator intended for disabled people.

The facility serves as a utility work for the Da Nang - Mikazuki Resort and Spa, which welcomed more than 490,000 visitors after a year of operation and has become a favorite venue for both local and foreign travelers, said Yoshimune.

By putting the Mikazuki flyover into use, Mikazuki Hotel Group has created a unique tourism product for Da Nang, contributing to a series of events to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Vietnam and Japan.

Currently, Japan is topping the list of foreign direct investors in Da Nang with 222 projects totaling more than US$1 billion.

The citys administration has conducted diverse cultural exchanges with Japan through the organization of the annual events such as the Vietnam - Japan Cultural Exchange Festival, the Cherry Blossom Festival, and youth exchange activities.

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A teaser has dropped for Season 2 of UK teen romance series Heartstopper returning to Netflix on Thursday August 3rd.

Nick, Charlie and the gang return as they journey through the next chapter of life, love and friendship.
'Scared of being pushed back into the closet': Europe's new LGBT+ retirement communities

'Scared of being pushed back into the closet': Europe's new LGBT+ retirement communities

For many older LGBTQ+ the prospect of moving into a retirement home is a worrying thought. But in Sweden, Spain and France new retirement communities for LGBTQ+ seniors are proving a hit.

"Care home staff don't realise that they have LGBTQ+ residents - but based on population estimates we know they do. It's just that residents don't feel comfortable or safe being identified as LGBTQ+", explains Professor Paul Willis, an expert in social care.

Older members of the LGBTQ+ community can "be at higher risk of loneliness, they are more likely to be single and live alone. They are also less likely to have children", he tells Euronews.

However, new LGBTQ+ senior communities - which aim to tackle this isolation and social exclusion - are cropping up across Europe.

Sweden

In 2013, Regnbagen - which means rainbow in Swedish - became Europes first LGBT retirement community. A decade later, more than 30 thirty residents call it home.

Located in a leafy suburb of Stockholm, residents aged over 55-years-old occupy the upper three floors of an eight-storey retirement complex.

Christer Fallman is the founder, he came up with the idea for the community when he attended Stockholms 2009 Pride.

"I was at a debate hosted by older LGBT people - they were worrying about their futures and where they would live", he told Euronews. Christer was only 51 at the time, but a realisation dawned on him. "I thought to myself, good point - where will I grow old?"

Residents have drinks on the rooftop terrace. - Christer Fallman

Christer rushed to action and began to submit funding applications to the Stockholm City Council. Four years on the first residents arrived - and to his surprise Christer was one of them. "I had not planned on moving in but then a room came free and I became the block's youngest resident!"

Same-sex relations were legalised by Sweden in 1944 - and they became equal to heterosexual relationships in 1972. In 2009, Sweden would become the seventh country in the world to legalize same-sex marriage.

Though five couples live in Regnbagen, most of the residents live alone.

72-year old Pia Faxen moved in last year, after her long-term partner, Monica, became terminally ill.

"We were living in an apartment in the city centre but it was too big for me to live in alone", she told Euronews. "I wanted to be in a place with a sense of community, where people would take care of one another."

Christer Fallman and Pia Faxen sit in the garden of the residence. - Christer Fallman

Pia's partner has since passed away, but she has managed to find comfort in her newfound "family."

"I dont need to explain myself here. I wanted to live with other gay people because they have the same background, we understand each other."

Residents have access to a rooftop terrace, as well as a hairdresser and health clinic. But Regnbagen has a waiting list of close to 300 people - for only 28 flats. Founder Christer Fallman believes there is still a long way to go.

"I feel like the government and politicians think it is enough that we were the first in Europe to open this kind of LGBT living space. But we need more spaces like this across Sweden so that everyone can find their place."

France

La Maison de la Diversite is a new residential block for LGBTQ+ seniors which plans to open in Lyon by the end of 2024.

Francois Daudin, 65, is a future resident, and excited to move in.

Francois spent years searching for senior LGBTQ+ housing before finding the project. "Many of us don't have children or family but also don't want to live alone. There is a real lack of housing options for us."

He currently lives in the outskirts of Lyon - in an area where he doesn't feel safe enough to show any public affection to his boyfriend when they are out.

"We would never dare kiss, or hold hands, for fear of being attacked. For me, living in the community would also give me a sense of security." France decriminalised homosexuality in 1982 - but same sex marriage was not legalised until 2013.

At Maison de la Diversite, each resident will have their own apartment - some of which will have a subsidised rent - as well as access to shared communal spaces.

Like Francois, seven other prospective residents have already signed up for flats. They keep in touch via WhatsApp and are currently figuring out how they will manage the place.

"All sorts of questions are arising - what happens if a resident falls sick? What types of people will be accepted into the residence? It is for the residents to decide and draft up the rules. But of course there will be a manager and volunteers on site to accompany them", explains Stephane Sauve. He is the man behind the project and also runs Les Audacieux & Audacieuses, an outreach charity for LGBTQ+ seniors.

A group of volunteers and future residents stand outside the future block in the Croix-Rousse neighbourhood of Lyon. - Stephane Sauve

Stephane spent decades managing care homes across France before dedicating himself to his charity. Through workshops it addresses stigmas around sexuality and homosexuality among the older LGBTQ+ community.

"One man was asked by a carer who the man in the framed picture on his bedside table was. He scrambled for words and then said it was his cousin. The next day he had hidden the picture in his wardrobe", he told Euronews.

Though Stephane stresses the carer was well-meaning in this instance, he also points to other cases of explicit homophobia.

"There was a lesbian woman in one of the homes I ran. She was the only woman who was never asked to dance by the other women during the weekly tea dances. There was chatter about women being attracted to her if they asked her to dance."

But despite this, Stephane remains positive and ambitious.

"We aim to open ten of these LGBTQ+ senior living blocks in the next ten years across France! Watch this space!"

Spain

In Madrid, Spain's first-ever council-funded LGBTQ+ retirement home is in the works.

It will include 62 rooms spread across four floors in a building spanning more 3000 square metres.

Federico Armentero has spent the last 13 years campaigning to open the home. He named his charity Fundacion 26 de Diciembre after the date in 1978 when Spain decriminalised Spain.

Federico explains that he came out to his family and friends in his mid-thirties.

"My generation was born at a moment in history when homophobia was rife and internalised by much of the population. Many older LGBTQ+ people have lived on the fringes of society. They don't feel they deserve a place where will be supported, cared for and welcomed."

A lunch for the LGBTQ+ members of the Fundacion 26 de Diciembre charity. - Federico Armenteros

When he began speaking to the LGTBQ+ community about retirement prospects, Federico realised that many older people "were terrified at the thought of going back into the closet. I dont want to be in a Catholic retirement home with paintings of the Virgin Mary - I want a place where there can be paintings of two women kissing on the walls!"

The project is a costly endeavour - and they have already spent 2.1 million euros on renovating the site of the future home. But the goal of providing affordable care for the LGBTQ+ community is central to Federico's mission.

"Many pensioners from the LGBTQ+ community are living on a pension of 400 per month. It is essential to provide decent housing for all people - even those with financial difficulties."

Ten of the rooms on site will be reserved for palliative care. The possibility for residents to be administered with euthanasia on site is also being explored (Spain legalised euthanisia in 2021).

For Federico, retirement homes should be viewed as a positive thing "we are going to hire almost 60 people at the home! The elderly are not the countrys ruin, on the contrary, we generate jobs, wealth!"
Carlos Sainz stands near the pit fence. Austria, July 2023. Credit: Alamy

Carlos Sainz was understandably not a happy bunny following the Austrian Grand Prix, where what looked like a certain podium turned into a disappointing P6 finish.

Sainz smelt an opportunity from P3 on the grid in Austria, he and Ferrari team-mate Charles Leclerc, starting one place ahead, set to team up in an effort to take the fight to F1 2023s dominant force Max Verstappen in the Red Bull.

Even with that two-on-one advantage, Ferrari still could not trouble Verstappen, though Sainz felt his cause was done very few favours by his team.

Carlos Sainz played the team game and seemingly lost

During the opening stint Sainz appeared to have a clear pace advantage over his team-mate, but as Sainz asked Ferrari to clear Leclerc to allow him to push on up the road and perhaps make life difficult for Verstappen, Ferrari made it clear that Sainz was to hold position and not attack.

He obliged, but this turned out to be the start of a frustrating race ahead for the Spaniard, who post-race was demoted from P4 to P6 due to a 10-second penalty for track limits violations.

Asked if he was frustrated not to finish on the podium, Sainz told F1.com: Yeah, obviously frustrated with the final outcome after having such a strong pace on the mediums, feeling also like I was playing the team game and not getting rewarded with a good result, which obviously leaves you always with a sour feeling.

Ive been very strong today, very quick, very fast. Good overtaking, good defending, but in the end P4 is not what I want.

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Then a questionable pit stop under VSC conditions for Sainz

When the Virtual Safety Car was deployed on Lap 14 to cover Nico Hulkenbergs retirement, Ferrari were among those looking to take advantage of the reduced time loss by pitting under those conditions.

They would in fact double stack their drivers, but did so on their lap after the VSC was deployed. The stops for Leclerc and Sainz were both on the slow side, and resulted in Sainz losing places to Lewis Hamilton and Lando Norris as the track returned to green.

If that opening block on battling Leclerc had not done the trick to annoy Sainz, this certainly did, the Spaniard voicing his frustrations over team radio, though he was quickly able to re-pass Norris and Hamilton.

A further setback was to come in the form of a five-second time penalty for track limits breaches.

Asked by Sky F1 if a better result was possible should be have been allowed to pass Leclerc, Sainz replied: Yeah, well the gap went from four-tenths because I was in his gearbox the whole stint to six, seven seconds and three positions lost in that first pit stop.

Obviously I felt like I did the team game, I played the team game staying behind and be penalised the way I was penalised with a pit stop, losing a lot of time, and losing the three positions and six seconds with a VSC ending, when we would have maybe done something different.

It frustrated me, lost a lot of time, and then trying to recover which I did pretty quickly the gap and the time, got the track limits and from there my race was quite compromised.

It was then pointed out to Sainz that he was coming through the penultimate corner when the VSC was deployed, so he was asked whether it could have been possible to peel off into the pit lane on that lap?

No, by the time my dash showed VSC I was already in the middle of Turn 9 and I wasnt committed to the pit entry, so it was the right call to stay out, Sainz replied.

Was it the right call to come in the next lap when the VSC was ending is what we need to analyse.

Do Ferrari owe Carlos Sainz next time?

Sainz went on to play the team game once more later in the race, engaging in a multi-lap battle with Red Bulls Sergio Perez, who was making his way back through the field.

Although Perez eventually made the move stick, by that point he was 13 seconds behind Leclerc in P2, meaning Perez would run out of laps to trouble the lead Ferrari.

Sainz did not want to agree with this belief that Ferrari owe him one after that race, but rather talked up his confidence at the wheel of the SF-23 right now.

Asked if the team owe him for the next race, that being the British Grand Prix, Sainz said: I dont know. I dont really want to say, I just do the best job I can.

Im in a very good moment personally with the car, Im driving very well. Im very fast every race weekend putting together some good laps in qualy, but also especially in the race pace where weve been very quick.

Doing some good overtaking today out there, some good defending, and thats why Im frustrated that the result wasnt better today.

The result did allow Ferrari to regain crucial ground in the Constructors standings. They remain P4, but are now only 24 points behind Mercedes in P2.

Read next: Austrian Grand Prix results in doubt as FIA examine 1,200 possible track limits breaches

The article Sour feeling for Carlos Sainz after being stung by team game and VSC appeared first on Planetf1.com.
The CEO of Malaysia Airlines, Captain Izham Ismail, went from selling snacks as a child to running a fleet of airplanes

Captain Izham Ismail is CEO of Malaysia Airlines. MAG

Captain Izham Ismail started flying for Malaysia Airlines in 1979 and became its CEO in 2017.

He thinks leaders should be "servants" for both the organization's staff, as well as its customers.

Ismail believes it's OK to make mistakes: "The more you fail, the faster you learn."

Not too many CEOs admit to filling up their stomachs with water at school to stave off hunger pains, but then again Datuk Captain Izham Ismail is not a typical boss.

He also recalls selling snacks at school to bring in extra money for his family in rural Malaysia, who were so poor they didn't have a bathroom and could only afford one meal a day: "I know how it feels to be poor."

Yet despite coming from such a modest background, Ismail went on to become a pilot and then run Malaysia Airlines, one of the world's oldest carriers.

Things could have turned out quite differently had he decided to take up a scholarship he won to study marine engineering at Bournemouth University in England in the 1970s. Before accepting his place, one of Ismail's sisters convinced him to take an entrance exam for flying school.

He became one of 30 who made it through to the interview stage, which required borrowing shoes and trousers from a family friend, to be trained by the Philippine Airlines aviation school. Ismail was one of only seven accepted in that intake.

He opted to take up the offer rather than go to the UK, mainly because it allowed him to remain much closer to his family, and took just two years  far quicker than a degree course.

Ismail started flying for Malaysia Airlines in 1979, became a captain and a decade later was selected for its senior management training scheme. That meant reducing his time in the cockpit to one trip a month, while moving around 18 different positions in the group, and taking management courses at the likes of Harvard.

In 2010 he stopped flying altogether  but not before setting world records for the longest flight and fastest round-the-world flight by a commercial airliner, with a total flight time of 41 hours 59 minutes over a distance of 23,310 miles in Malaysia's first Boeing 777-200.

After running one of its regional carriers and becoming group chief operating officer, Ismail was elevated to CEO of Malaysia Airlines in 2017.

His leadership philosophy is quite simple: be transparent. "Leaders should be servants," he says  not only for their employees, but for their customers as well. "It's very important as a CEO to depict the vision and goals of the organization."

He makes a point of saying he drives himself to work and took Ubers at the IATA annual conference in Istanbul prior to his visit to London in June, where we met at the airline's offices in Earls Court.

Ismail is a warm, engaging interviewee and largely avoids the management-speak favored by some CEOs.

Mohd Rasfan/Getty Images

While running an airline is perhaps one of the harder management challenges ("you never have a good sleep as a CEO," Ismail says), he got the job following a particularly challenging set of circumstances.

In March 2014 MH 370 with 239 people on board disappeared on a flight from Kuala Lumpur to Beijing. (Earlier this year, a Netflix documentary reminded the world of that enduring mystery.) Then, just four months later, MH 17 was shot down over Ukraine by Russian-controlled forces, killing all 298 people on board.

In December 2014, Malaysian state-owned sovereign wealth fund Khazanah took the already loss-making airline private in a $1.5 billion restructuring and brought in Christopher Mueller as CEO six months later. He'd helped revive Ireland's Aer Lingus, Belgium's Sabena, and Germany's Lufthansa.

While its legal entity was altered and there was some internal discussion about rebranding the airline, Ismail said the management and board decided not to change it. The kite symbol on the tailfin has represented Malaysia to the world for a century and he says each plane is like an "embassy on wings."

Malaysia Airlines planes at Kuala Lumpur International Airport. Mat Zain/Getty Images

The company is still controlled by the Malaysian government and acts as an extension of the country's tourism board to some extent, offering passengers from London a bonus side trip in Malaysia before continuing on to their final destination, for example.

After a misguided attempt to jump on the budget bandwagon, in 2019 it implemented a long-term business plan and refocused as a premium, full-service carrier.

While the pandemic delayed its revival, the group nevertheless reported a $125 million operating profit last year  a considerable improvement on the $173 million loss in 2021  after carrying just under 10 million passengers, or about 85% of pre-pandemic capacity. It's a member of the One World alliance, which includes British Airways and American Airlines.

Malaysia Airlines has 11,000 staff, down from 35,000 two decades ago, and flies to almost 50 destinations, mostly in Asia, with 106 aircraft that are all leased. That's far fewer than an airline such as American, for example, which has about 950 planes.

After losing its way  and some staff  over the past two decades to newer Middle Eastern rivals such as Qatar Airways and Emirates, Ismail says, "Our journey is to catch up." He insists that is possible  even if it means sometimes failing on the way: "The more you fail, the faster you learn."

Read the original article on Business Insider
Paramount

Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny spoilers follow.



Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny director James Mangold has explained the sad fate of Shia LaBeouf's Mutt.

Indiana Jones 5 sees Harrison Ford's Indy team up with his goddaughter Helena, played by Phoebe Waller-Bridge, to find the Antikythera, aka the Archimedes Dial before Mads Mikkelsen 's former Nazi Jurgen Voller gets to it.

In the film, we learn that Indy's son Mutt, played by Shia LaBeouf in the 2008 film Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull , was killed in the Vietnam War leading to the breakdown of Indy and Marion's marriage.

Paramount

Related: Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny ending: Explaining that time-travel twist

In one scene, an injured Indy tells his goddaughter he doesn't want to return to his home in 1969 believing he has nothing to go back to.

"That seemed to me to be right emotionally," Mangold told Variety . "That a disillusioned hero could end up at this wonderful tumultuous moment in world history and  with his son gone and his wife gone  that he'd picture himself staying in the place he loves best, which is this imagining [of] these worlds."

While LaBeouf has previously criticised Crystal Skull, Mangold said his decision to kill off Indy's son was unrelated to any comments made by the actor.

Disney

Related: The 'true' story behind Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny

"It's separate from all past studio, political intrigue on movies I didn't make," Mangold said. "You were either going to make a movie all about the two of them or you're going to have to find a way to not have [Mutt] around, because he was too significant a player in the previous film to just pretend he didn't exist.

"I didn't think his whole thing worked that well in the previous film. I just went towards something else because it was what was more interesting to me."

Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny is out now in UK and US cinemas.

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HA NOI  Party General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong met with voters in Ha Nois Hai Ba Trung, Ba inh and ong a districts on July 1 to inform them about outcomes of the recent fifth session of the 15th National Assembly (NA).

The local voters lauded the success of the fifth meeting, saying NA deputies decided on many important, strategic national matters, creating a significant political foundation for the operation of the Government, and activities of ministries and localities.

They noted that the quality of the sittings question-and-answer session was improved, with queries focusing on issues of public concern, which received clear responses from ministers.

The voters expressed their absolute confidence in the leadership of the Party and the State, and their delight at the results of Party building and rectification, especially the fight against corruption and negative phenomena.

They spoke highly of collecting public opinions on the draft revised Land Law, and voiced their hope that people will be put at the centre during the revision of the legal document.

On this occasion, the voters proposed more policies on vocational training to meet workforce demand in the Fourth Industrial Revolution, and more attention to infrastructure in education-training.

They also raised proposals regarding electricity, the supervision work, law building and enforcement.

In reply, Trong said he hopes that the Ha Noi Party Committee, authorities and people will make more contributions to the nation, firstly to the citys development.

He also urged Ha Nois delegation of NA deputies to raise more practical opinions and promote the spirit of criticism.  VNS
AK LAK  Police on Saturday morning issued special arrest warrants for five suspects allegedly involved in the recent fatal armed attacks on the headquarters of two communal administrations in Cu Kuin District in the Central Highlands province of ak Lak.

The provincial Police Department announced that the five suspects are wanted for allegedly committing acts of terrorist activities against the peoples administration.

The wanted individuals are all residents of ak Lak Province. They are Y Ju Nie, 55, in Ea Knuec Commune, Krong Pac District; Y Khing Lieng, 31, in Hoa Son Commune, Krong Bong District; and three others from Cu Pong Commune in Krong Buk District, namely Nay Tam, 49; Nay Yen, 53; and Nay Duong, 55.

Previously, these individuals were charged for "terrorist act against the people's administration" in accordance with Article 113, Clause 2 of the 2015 Criminal Code.

The suspects have been on the run since June 11, following the armed attacks which took place on the headquarters of the peoples committees of Ea Tieu and Ea Ktur communes, killing nine people and injuring two others.

The provincial police announced that anyone has the right to arrest the wanted individuals and hand them over to the nearest police station, prosecutor's office, or People's Committee headquarters.

Those who apprehend the wanted suspects must promptly report to the security investigation agency of the ak Lak Police located at 58 Nguyen Tat Thanh Street, Buon Ma Thuot City in ak Lak Province or via the phone number: 0694 389 133.

On June 11, a group of assailants attacked the People's Committee headquarters in Ea Tieu and Ea Ktur communes, including the offices of the communal police, in Cu Kuin District, killing nine people, including four police officers, two commune leaders, and injuring two others.

By June 20, 74 people have been temporarily arrested for their role in the armed attacks, and a number of weapons and evidence were seized.

Security and public order has since been stabilised.

The Ministry of Public Security considers this a terrorist act aimed at opposing the people's administration, causing particularly serious consequences. The actions of the suspects were extremely brutal and inhumane, demonstrating their determination to fully commit crimes.

The police have gathered evidence and documentation proving that the incident was supported and directed by certain organisations and individuals from abroad, even involving the illegal entry of foreign individuals into Viet Nam to plan and direct the terrorist attack.

The authorities are continuing their investigation to clarify the details and handle the case strictly in accordance with Vietnamese law.  VNS
HA NOI  Three individuals have been identified for their involvement in the leak of the Literature questions on the first day of the high school graduation exam on June 28.

The Police Department in northern Cao Bang Province made the announcement regarding the leak of the test, which has caused public concern over the past few days.

V.T.H, a candidate in Cao Bang Province, brought a smartphone into the exam room to take photos of the exam questions and sent them to H.T.T.T., a university student, for assistance. Subsequently, T.'s boyfriend posted them on social media.

Immediately after seeing the leaked exam questions on social media around 8am on June 28, the provincial police coordinated with the Department of Education and Training and units of the Ministry of Public Security to conduct a thorough investigation.

By 1.30pm the same day, the police identified V.T.H as the person who took photos of the exam questions, residing in Hop Giang Ward, Cao Bang City.

H. admitted that on June 27, H contacted H.T.T.T., a student at a university majoring in Finance and residing in Tan Giang Ward in Cao Bang City, through the Messenger app and asked for help with the Literature exam, which T. agreed to.

On the morning of June 28, H. brought a smartphone into exam room No. 0176 at the examination site in Cao Bang City High School. After the exam paper was released, H. took a photo of the questions and sent it to T. at 7.45am.

However, due to strict invigilation during the exam, H. did not use the phone to look at the answers.

After receiving the exam paper from H. via Messenger, T. solved and sent answers for question 1, question 4 in the reading comprehension section, and question 1 in the essay section. Then, T. deleted the messages.

However, T.'s boyfriend, H.N.T., residing in Phu Tho Town in Phu Tho Province, read the exchanged messages between T. and H., and saved the images of the exam paper and posted them on his own Facebook account.

A few minutes later, T. deleted these images, but the exam paper had already spread online.

Preliminary findings indicated that the assistance of the university student T. to candidate H. was based on their acquaintance without any agreement on monetary payment.

When working with the police agency, T. admitted that she regularly contacted H. regarding exercise questions during the exam preparation.

The leak of the exam paper has been determined to involve only three individuals.

Candidate H. was suspended from the exam in accordance with examination rules.

The Ministry of Education and Training affirmed that the leaked information would not affect the overall examination process as it was likely limited to only a few candidates.

The authorities are currently investigating the case to clarify the details and handle it according to the provisions of the law.  VNS
By Luong Thu Huong

Vietnamese cuisine has undergone significant changes over the centuries, shaped by various political and historical factors. In her book, Appetites and Aspirations in Vietnam, Erica J. Peters delves into the culinary history of Viet Nam, shedding light on how Vietnamese people used food and alcohol to establish their power and social position during the 19th century.

Appetites and Aspirations in Vietnam has been translated into Vietnamese and recently published in Viet Nam by HCM City General Publishing House.

Peters is co-founder and former director of the Culinary Historians of Northern California, the US. She had a BA from Harvard University and a PhD in history from the University of Chicago. She has written about various aspects of Vietnamese history and cuisine and presented at numerous conferences across the US and abroad.

Appetites and Aspirations in Vietnam is the result of 15 years of work by Peters, which began as a part of her doctoral thesis at the University of Chicago.

What got me interested in Vietnamese history is that I spent a lot of time in France as a child, and I majored in French history in college. But when I went to graduate school in 1993, I became interested in studying French colonialism, and Viet Nam (one of France's colonies) was newly welcoming for visits from American researchers. In the spring of 1997 I first visited Ha Noi, and fell in love with the country, with the people, with the mist, and with the food. Most of my research was in archives and libraries (in Aix-en-Provence, Paris, and Ha Noi), she told Viet Nam News.

Appetites and Aspirations in Vietnam starts with the spread of Vietnamese imperial control from north to south, marking the earliest efforts to create a common Vietnamese culture, as well as resistance to that cultural and culinary imperialism. Once the French conquered the country, new opportunities for culinary experimentation became possible, although such experiences were embraced more by the colonised than the colonisers.

This book discusses how colonialism changed the taste of Vietnamese fish sauce and rice liquor and shows that state intervention made those products into tangible icons of a unified Vietnamese cuisine, under attack by the French.

Vietnamese villagers began to see the power they could bring to bear on the state by mobilising around such controversies in everyday life. The rising new urban classes at the turn of the twentieth century also discovered new perspectives on food and drink, delighting in unfamiliar snacks or giving elaborate multicultural banquets as a form of conspicuous consumption. New tastes prompted people to reconsider their preferences and their position in the changing modern world.

The aspect I found most interesting was reading subtle suggestions that the Vietnamese were more civilised than the French (around the end of the 19th century) because most of the French never managed to learn how to use chopsticks, Peters said.

A part of the book examines the influence of Chinese culture and cuisine on Vietnamese cuisine through the settlement of migrant Chinese in the country. In fact, during the 1870s and 1880s, it was a commonly held belief in southern Viet Nam that male Chinese chefs were extremely skilled in the kitchen.

In addition to the close encounters regarding cuisine and ethnicity, the book also mentions food clashes that demonstrate the high spirit of the Vietnamese beyond the realm of food and drink.

"In August 1919, a Chinese cafe owner in the Saigon suburbs raised the price of a cup of coffee from two cents to three cents, sparking a crisis. Vietnamese journalists stirred up public support with the goal of limiting Chinese domination over the economic life of the South," Peters writes in her book.

The book also analyses the strong resistance by the silent majority of Vietnamese residents to the invasion and coercion of French cuisine. This resistance was particularly evident in the context of traditional wine being classified as illegal liquor by the colonial authorities in order to force people to use state-produced alcohol, which was simply a tax-collecting policy.

Many clashes between clandestine home brew and state-produced alcohol took place, essentially confrontations between the Vietnamese and the French in the battle for drinks. Towards the end of 1911, with a record number of Vietnamese villagers drinking untaxed liquor instead of official products, the French government intensified its efforts to address the issue.

"In 1912, Sarraut was forced to 'reduce the tax by a few centimes and force the Fontaine brothers to cut their excessive profits from their ten-year monopoly [...] improve the quality of rice wine and reduce its purity to bring the product closer to the taste that Vietnamese consumers demanded,'" Peters notes.

As Western cultural influences poured into Viet Nam during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, it was inevitable that cuisine would also undergo a process of fusion, contributing to the creation of a diverse range of flavours. The book identifies canned goods, bread, cow's milk, and sandwiches, among others, as examples of Western influences that have enriched Vietnamese cuisine.

Wandering the streets of Ha Noi, one can now find pho shops near bakeries selling banh my (warm, crusty baguettes, which make for excellent sandwiches) and market vendors offering freshly sliced and salted pineapple next to cafes where Vietnamese and tourists enjoy rich cups of coffee. Two hundred years ago, none of those delights were there. A hundred years ago, they had all just arrived. Peters writes.

"The French colonisers who conquered Viet Nam in the second half of the 19th century are long gone, but certain culinary contributions remain, alongside contemporaneous influences from other people: Chinese, Indians, Khmer, Malay and others.

What I hope readers will take away is that what we eat is never fixed in time. Every day we can choose to eat something new, to learn about a new culture, or to share food with someone we're interested in, who likes some food we're not yet familiar with. Every day is an opportunity for a new flavour, or an old favourite, and we can learn a lot about ourselves and each other by talking about the foods we love. VNS

Crossing culinary culturesWhat happened when French and Vietnamese encountered each other's cuisines? Breaking new ground by examining colonial culinary history, Peters challenges the old saw that we are what we eat, suggesting instead that we eat what we want to be. By seeing the Vietnamese as well as the French as colonialists, by looking at the alcohol monopoly and imported foods, by exploring the role of the Chinese, and by teasing out cross-influences between all these cuisines, Peters illuminates the complexity and instability of a hundred years of culinary change in Vietnam. A refreshingly original contribution to culinary studies, Rachel Laudan, food historian.
Malaysian chef Nazarudin Bin Yusoh, from Le Meridien Kuala Lumpur presents chicken satay, one of Malaysia's authentic cuisines, during Straight Outta Kuala Lumpur, part of the Straight Outta Asia series designed to bring international guest chefs to HCM City.

Recently held at the Sheraton Saigon Hotel & Towers, Straight Outta Kuala Lumpur aims to showcase the authenticity of Malaysian flavours in celebration of the 50th anniversary of bilateral relations between Malaysia and Viet Nam.

The signature Malaysian dish is a strong, spicy and aromatic delicacy, which is not complicated to prepare. It is a wonderful dish for a home party.

Ingredients:

For the chicken

- 2kg boneless chicken

- 500g shallots

- 200g garlic

- 200g ginger

- 6 stalks lemongrass

- 10g coriander seed

- 70g fennel seed

- 50g cumin seed

- 50g turmeric powder

- 1 cup palm sugar

- 1 cup sugar

- 3 tbsp salt

For the satay sauce

- 5 shallots

- 3 cloves of garlic

- 10 dried chillies

- 3 stalks of lemongrass

- 3 galangal

- 600g of roasted ground peanut

Preparation:

For the chicken

- Blanch the shallot, garlic, ginger, lemongrass, coriander seed, fennel seed, and cumin seed finely

- Mix them together

- Add turmeric powder, palm sugar, sugar, and salt into the mixture to make the marinade

- Pour the marinade over the chicken and leave it for at least 2 hours, or overnight

- Skewer each piece of the chicken on bamboo sticks

- Heat the grill to high and brush a baking tray with oil. Grill the skewers for about 10 minutes, flip them over occasionally, until lightly charred

For the satay sauce

- Blanch the shallots, garlic, dried chillies, lemongrass, and galangal finely

- Blend all the ingredients together

- Heat the oil in a pan and stir-fry the blend. Simmer it until the oil is extracted

- Add the roasted ground peanut into the blend and mix well. Simmer until it boils

Serving:

- Place the chicken on a plate and the satay sauce in a small bowl and garnish. Enjoy.  VNS
by Nguyen My Ha

Ninh Binh has always been a gem on the way from Ha Noi heading south. It's picturesque, and you don't have to try too hard to get there. The province boasts beautiful mountain ranges with winding lazy rivers where rice fields nestle by lotuses on rugged marshland.

It takes only three hours by car from Ha Noi, making it easy to reach by lunch.

Ninh Binh is affordable, the views are breathtaking, the people are kind, and the food tastes great. As it is summer, and still not too late to catch the rice harvesting season, we decided to book at the Lotus Field Homestay.

The homestay has several bungalows with red tile roofs, standing by the foot of the mountain. Built on concrete stilts, the bungalows are located in the middle of a rice field, where you can contemplate the pretty fields while breathing in the rice fragrance.

The rooms are large and host two king-size beds in one room. Our companion also likes fishing and Lotus Field has its own natural pond you can fish from. They even provide fishing rods and bait.

The homestay largely hosts foreign guests, so kept greeting us in English, and we kept replying in Vietnamese.

While staying there, we met quite the international entourage: a man from near Cologne in Germany; a big family from Australia with grandparents, parents and a child, with the child's mother being Vietnamese; a family of five from France; another family from Singapore; and a guy from South Korea. It was like a mini United Nations.

A typical schedule for those visiting Ninh Binh is to take a bicycle or motorbike and take off after breakfast, spend the whole day visiting landscapes, have lunch at a popular goat meat restaurant, and then head back in the evening.

But that was not tempting enough to lure us out of the homestay. We had actually agreed that we would not go sightseeing anywhere because it'd be too crowded, too hot and tiring.

My travel companion and darling daughter said that she only wanted to stay in, as she was too tired after a long and stressful end to secondary school exams.

My other companion brought his fishing tools, including specially ordered bait, to keep him busy morning and afternoon for three days, so he wouldn't move an inch from his fishing spot.

But I cannot sit still. The field was half harvested. The rice left was gold and the grass green. But since the homestay changed ownership a few years back, the new owner doesn't grow rice around the bungalows any more. From afar, it looked just like uncut rice, but as we got closer, it turned out to be wild grass. The canal on the left was full of rafts of white ducks that roamed the fields looking for dropped rice grains, quacking their lungs to break the country silence.

Ninh Binh is not only famed for its rice fields, though in recent years is noted for its lotus. Different lotus species from Japan have been planted, and the lotus fields are vast and wrap around the tiny local roads.

You can ride your bicycle in and out of country lanes, among secret homestays standing on stilts on the water, or watch people fishing along the canals. It's the rural charms of books and movies, a pastoral idyll, serene, beautiful, and where nothing ever seems to go wrong.

Breakfast was simple yet delicious with a hot soup with fresh vermicelli with either rice field crab roe, or meat balls. One of the ladies in the kitchen, I was told, has had a food stall selling crab vermicelli for 15 years. You can also order eggs: soft-boiled, scrambled, as an omelette or sunny side up.

There is also toast, butter and jam for breakfast. The chef made wonderful banana pancakes, which delighted many other guests staying here.

For lunch, we ordered a simple duck cooked with bamboo shoots (VN380,000) to have with fresh rice noodles. It must have been the fattest duck ever for this time of year, and there was meat too much for us to finish. The soup was absolutely delicious, so we kept half of it back to have with dinner.

Over three days, we tried almost a dozen dishes on the menu, most of them good. There was boiled morning glory (VN45,000), minced pork omelette (VN 55,000), Vietnamese beef steak (VN90,000), stir-fried goat (VN200,000), fried tofu in tomato sauce (VN50,000), fried stuffed tofu (VN60,000), sour pork rib soup (VN200,000) and sour fish soup (VN80,000) to name but a few.

Last but not least, our resident fisherman caught a few carp in the pond, which we gave to the chef and he cooked up a beautiful sour soup, for a small service charge, of course. The next day, he caught even more, but we kept only two to saute in tomato sauce, giving the rest to the kitchen to enjoy.

The Singaporean family also joined us in our fishing game. Their daughter was given a rod with a caught fish to simply reel in, but it escaped and left her a dash upset. The mother was soon asking where we bought our bait, and we wished them better luck next time.

When we got home on Sunday, on TV we saw hordes of people stuck at the lotus pond by Hang Mua (Dance Cave), which was only two kilometres away from where we were. We sighed in relief, as it was sheer luck we didn't get caught there, or stranded waiting for a boat to get to the islands of Co To or Quan Lan off the Quang Ninh coast. VNS

Lotus Field Homestay, Ninh Binh

Khe Thuong Hamlet , Hoa Lu District, Ninh Binh Province 430000

Tel: 098 356 3066

Comment: Vast views of the valley and mountains with rice paddies and lotus pond intertwined
MINNEAPOLIS (AP)  The body of a pilot who crashed his floatplane into Minnesotas Lake Mille Lacs and drowned has been recovered, the county sheriff said Saturday.

The Mille Lacs County sheriff said in a Facebook video that the pilot's body was recovered from the lake just before 10 p.m. Friday. The plane was also recovered. The crash occurred before 2 p.m. Friday, the sheriff said.

The sheriff's office identified the pilot as 47-year-old Ryan Comer, of Blaine, KARE-TV reported. Little information is available about what caused the crash, the Star Tribune reported.

The National Transportation Safety Board is investigating and asking for video footage that might have captured the crash, either from boaters or property owners on the southwest shore of the lake.

The floatplane was one of two that took off about 1 p.m. Friday from the Anoka County-Blaine Airport, the Star Tribune reported, and it planned to make a brief water landing on the lake before going on to Aitkin County.

One of the planes landed successfully, but the other, an Icon A5 aircraft, crashed into the lake in 26 feet (8 meters) of water.
TAOS, N.M. (AP)  An exchange of gunfire between a police officer and a suspect in Taos on Saturday wounded both and forced authorities to divert traffic along a main road in the tourist enclave, authorities said.

Town manager Andrew Gonzales confirmed in a statement to The Associated Press that the officer and suspect were both taken to a hospital and that the suspect was likely to succumb to their injuries.

He declined to release more information, saying the shooting would under go a full investigation.

"Please keep our officers, first responders and community in your prayers," Gonzales said.

Its unclear what led to the shooting, which happened in a commercial district about a half-mile south of the historic Taos Plaza. The area includes a grocery store, a barber shop, restaurants and other businesses.
Cameron Park Zoo recently welcomed a newborn Masai giraffe to the world, and the public has a little more than a week left to weigh in on her name.

The birth is especially important due to the endangered status of the Masai giraffe species, the zoo said in a press release. According to the Wild Nature Institute, Masai giraffes are endemic to Tanzania and Kenya and have lost half their population in the last few decades due to habitat loss and poaching.

According to National Geographic, only 35,000 Masai giraffes remained in the world in 2019.

The June 23 birth also comes with a naming contest that will run through July 9. Participants can go to the Cameron Park Zoos website and choose between four names. Votes cost $5 and proceeds will go to the Giraffe Conservation Foundation.

The options for a name are Adelaide, meaning kind or noble; Kalani, meaning royal or majesty; Kira, meaning throne; and Zuri, meaning beautiful.

The calfs birth aligns with a breeding recommendation for the Association of Zoos and Aquariums' Species Survival Program for Masai giraffes in captivity. The plans are intended to ensure a genetically diverse and self-sustaining population under professional care.

The newborn giraffe arrived at 6 feet, 7 inches tall and 156 pounds, according to the zoo's press release. Both of the newborns parents are transplants from California. Her mother, Penelope, was born on May 9, 2013, and came to Waco from the San Diego Zoo, and her dad, Dane, was born April 18, 2013, and came from the Santa Barbara Zoo.

Mourning Jerry

While the zoo celebrates the birth, it also mourns the death of Jerry, a 3-year-old nutria, which the zoo announced on Facebook Wednesday. According to the Facebook post, Jerry had been dealing with age-related health issues over the last few months, and was a staff and guest favorite because of his social personality and mischievous behavior.

Interim zoo Director Duane Hills said Jerry was dealing with a heart issue.

Nutrias, a semiaquatic rodent native to South America, can live in captivity for up to 6 years, but it is uncommon for the animal to survive past 3, according to a journal article in the Southeastern Naturalist.

The zoo's Facebook post says Jerrys favorite food was sweet potato and occasionally he created paintings for the zoos art shop. Hills said many animals in the zoo create paintings as a form of enrichment, with primates able to use a paintbrush and other animals using their paw prints.

Hills said the zoo is always saddened by the loss of an animal.
SPILLVILLE  A Saturday night crash in Winneshiek County left two dead and three injured.

The crash occurred at 11:10 p.m. when a Toyota Highlander northbound on 265th Avenue ran a stop sign, colliding with a Chevrolet Malibu at the intersection with County Road B16 east of Spillville.

According to the Iowa State Patrol, 42-year-old Christopher Mirich of Waukon, driver of the Highlander, was pronounced dead at the scene along with one of the passengers, 54-year-old Laura Lubka of Postville.

The driver of the Malibu, 49-year-old Neil Heins of Monona, was transported to Winneshiek Medical Center with injuries along with the other two passengers in the crash, 28-year-old Taylor Gerleman of Calmar and 36-year-old Scott Uhlenhake of Luana.

None of the passengers were wearing seatbelts.

Assisting on the scene were the Winneshiek County Sheriffs Office, Decorah police and fire departments, Calmar Fire and Rescue, Ossian Ambulance, a Howard County sheriffs deputy, a Department of Natural Resources officer, Protivin Rescue, Gunderson Air Care, and Dons Towing.

The accident remains under investigation by the State Patrol.
WATERLOO  Part of City Hall has the potential to be remodeled if a building study is approved by the City Council.

The council will meet at 5:30 p.m. on Monday in the council chambers at City Hall.

Councilmembers will consider approving a professional services agreement with InVision Architecture of Waterloo to conduct a study for a renovation of the mayors office and police department public access on the first floor of City Hall. The cost of the study is $13,000.

City documents state preliminary design work has been done for the mayors office and will be used as the basis of planning for the study of the police departments public area. The intent is to use the study in developing a conceptual plan to provide first floor direct access to the department through a revised entrance.

If approved, the study would provide floor and site plans, scope narratives, a project budget and a summary of moving to the bidding process. The final report is expected to be complete by Sept. 30.

The council is also set to promote current Finance Manager Bridgett Wood to the position of finance director. If approved, Wood would receive an annual salary of $120,000.

A personnel requisition form states this would fill the empty position of chief finance officer, which has been empty since September when Michelle Weidner retired.

The main job responsibilities are listed as planning, organizing and directing all municipal financial investments, citywide budget development, accounts receivable and payable, accounting purchasing, billing and collections.

The requisition form states there will be cost savings for the city by changing the position from CFO to finance director, as well as hiring within to fill Woods current position of finance manager. The position is already budgeted for this and current fiscal years.

The council could also approve:

A 28E agreement for consolidated public safety communications. Waterloo would contribute $1.4 million based on 100% taxable property valuation. The resolution was taken off the last council meetings agenda due to an error in numbers that could not be amended during the meeting.

A development agreement and minimum assessment agreement with Drew Reg Investments, LLC, for the construction of a new commercial building at 2920 Janet Drive. The agreement would have a tax rebate schedule of 60% for years one through five with a minimum assessment agreement of $595,460.

Photos: Waterloo Woo team name and logo unveiling Waterloo Woo Waterloo Woo (1) Waterloo Woo (2) Waterloo Woo (3) Waterloo Woo (4) Waterloo Woo (5) Waterloo Woo (6)
WASHINGTON  President Joe Biden will head to Europe at week's end for a three-country trip intended to bolster the international coalition against Russian aggression as the war in Ukraine extends well into its second year.

The main focus of Bidens five-day visit will be the annual NATO summit, held this year in Vilnius, Lithuania. Also planned are stops in Helsinki, Finland, to commemorate the Nordic countrys entrance into the 31-nation military alliance in April, and Britain, the White House announced Sunday.

Biden will begin his trip next Sunday in London, and will meet with King Charles III at Windsor Castle the next day, according to Buckingham Palace. The president did not attend Charless coronation in May, sending first lady Jill Biden to represent the United States. In June, Biden hosted British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak at the White House, where the two leaders pledged continued cooperation in defending Ukraine.

Sunak's office said he looked forward to welcoming Biden and that their meeting would build on earlier visits.

The NATO meeting comes at the latest critical point in the war. Ukraine's president, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, says counteroffensive and defensive actions against Russian forces are underway as Ukrainian troops start to recapture territory in the southeastern part of the country, according to its military leaders.

Jens Stoltenberg, NATOs secretary-general, visited the White House on June 13, where he and Biden made clear that the Western alliance was united in defending Ukraine. Biden said during that meeting that he and other NATO leaders will work to ensure that each member country spends the requisite 2% of its gross domestic product on defense.

The NATO allies have never been more united. We both worked like hell to make sure that happened. And so far, so good, Biden said as he sat alongside Stoltenberg, who is expected to extend his term for another year. "We see our joint strength in modernizing the relationship within NATO, as well as providing assistance to defense capabilities to Ukraine.

When Finland joined NATO in April, it effectively doubled Russias border with the worlds biggest security alliance. Biden has highlighted the strengthened NATO alliance as a signal of Moscows declining influence.

Sweden is also seeking entry into NATO, although alliance members Turkey and Hungary have yet to endorse the move. Biden will host Swedens prime minister, Ulf Kristersson, at the White House on Wednesday in a show of solidarity as the United States presses for the Nordic nations entry into NATO.

Turkey's president, Recep Tayyip Erdogan, has said Sweden is too lax on terrorist groups and security threats. Stoltenberg has said Sweden has met its obligations for membership through toughening anti-terrorist laws and other measures.

Hungarys reasons for opposing Sweden have been less defined, complaining about Swedens criticism of democratic backsliding and the erosion of rule of law. Hungary, while providing humanitarian aid to Ukraine, has also sought to balance its relations between NATO and Russia. Budapest is heavily reliant on Russia for its energy requirements.

All nations in the alliance have to ratify the entry of a new member country.

The White House has stressed that Sweden has fulfilled its commitments to join NATO and has urged that it join the alliance expeditiously.

How Biden's approval rating compares to other major world leaders How Biden's approval rating compares to other major world leaders #20. Yoon Suk Yeol, South Korea #19. Karl Nehammer, Austria #18. Mark Rutte, Netherlands #17. Jonas Gahr Store, Norway #16. Leo Varadkar, Ireland #15. Olaf Scholz, Germany #14. Mateusz Morawiecki, Poland #13. Rishi Sunak, United Kingdom #12. Ulf Kristersson, Sweden #11. Fumio Kishida, Japan #10. Pedro Sanchez, Spain #9. Alexander De Croo, Belgium #8. Joe Biden, United States #7. Justin Trudeau, Canada #6. Giorgia Meloni, Italy #5. Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, Brazil #4. Anthony Albanese, Australia #3. Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador, Mexico #2. Alain Berset, Switzerland #1. Narendra Modi, India
DENVER  A Colorado web designer who the U.S. Supreme Court ruled Friday could refuse to make wedding websites for gay couples cited a request from a man who says he never asked to work with her.

The request in dispute, from a person identified as "Stewart," wasn't the basis for the federal lawsuit filed preemptively seven years ago by web designer Lorie Smith, before she started making wedding websites. But as the case advanced, it was referenced by her attorneys when lawyers for the state of Colorado pressed Smith on whether she had sufficient grounds to sue.

Smith named Stewart  and included a website service request from him, listing his phone number and email address in 2017 court documents. But Stewart told The Associated Press he never submitted the request and didn't know his name was invoked in the lawsuit until he was contacted by a reporter from The New Republic, which first reported his denial.

"I was incredibly surprised given the fact that I've been happily married to a woman for the last 15 years," said Stewart, who declined to give his last name for fear of harassment and threats. His contact information, but not his last name, were listed in court documents.

He added that he was concerned no one checked into the validity of the request cited by Smith until recently.

Smith's lawyer, Kristen Waggoner, said at a Friday news conference that the wedding request naming Stewart was submitted through Smith's website and denied it was fabricated.

She suggested it could have been a troll making the request, something that's happened with other clients she has represented. In 2018 her client Colorado baker Jack Phillips won a partial U.S. Supreme Court victory after refusing to make a gay couple's wedding cake, citing his Christian faith.

"It's undisputed that the request was received," Waggoner said. "Whether that was a troll and not a genuine request, or it was someone who was looking for that, is really irrelevant to the case."

Colorado Attorney General Phil Weiser on Friday called the lawsuit a "made up case" because Smith wasn't offering wedding website services when the suit was filed.

Weiser didn't know the specifics of Stewart's denial, but said the nation's high court should not have addressed the lawsuit's merits "without any basis in reality."

About a month after the case was filed in federal court challenging an anti-discrimination law in Colorado, lawyers for the state said Smith had not been harmed by the law as they moved to dismiss the case.

Her lawyers maintained Smith did not have to be punished for violating the law before challenging it. In February 2017 they said even though she did not need a request in order to pursue the case, she received one.

"Any claim that Lorie will never receive a request to create a custom website celebrating a same-sex ceremony is no longer legitimate because Lorie has received such a request," they said.

Smith's Supreme Court filings briefly mentioned she received at least one request to create a website celebrating the wedding of a same-sex couple. There did not appear to be any reference to the issue in the court's decision.
The Salvation Army of Waterloo/Cedar Falls Development Committee would like to thank all who supported our annual Night at the Ballpark fundraiser. Because of our generous sponsors, ticket purchases, and donations made at the June 16 game, we raised more than $4,000 for our programs, benefiting many in need in our community.

This was my first fundraising event with The Salvation Army, and I wasnt sure what to expect, said Jake Meyers, advisory board and development committee member. We had about the best weather we could have hoped for, the Waterloo Bucks played phenomenally, and the crowd was supportive of our cause. Im already looking forward to next years fundraiser.

Thank you 2023 night at the ballpark sponsors:

Gold Level: Peoples Community Health Clinic, The Weekly Connection, and Tyson Prepared Foods.

Silver Level: BankIowa, BerganKDV, Bergen Plumbing, Inc., and Elvir Begic Real Estate.

Bronze Level: Hansens Dairy, Home Instead, Julie Facion, Loftys Lounge, SERVPRO of Black Hawk County, TJ's Christian Book Store, U. S. Bank, and VGM Group.

Katie Harn, volunteer and community relations coordinator
Commenting on his June 8 indictment, Donald Trump remarked: These charges against me came down the very same day evidence revealed that Joe Biden took a $5 million dollar bribe from Ukraine. Big Three networks devoted 491 news minutes to Trumps indictment, 0 minutes to the explosive cascade of bribery allegations facing Biden. More recently, son Hunter -- after a five-year slow-walked investigation, essentially walked for his gun and tax crimes. Not a minute in jail. Joe Biden himself has said: No one (expletive) with a Biden. Its nice to be king.

Bidens corrupt FBI and Justice Department know their assignment: Destroy Trump through prosecutorial harassment in order to win in 2024. Democrats dont play by Queensbury Rules. They play to win. Character assassination, the Russia collusion lie, government intimidation efforts against pro-life Catholics -- Machiavelli would be proud. Alternatively, Republicans make Pee-Wee Herman look like Chuck Norris.

Weaponizing government against political opponents is standard fare in Communist countries. Soviet dissident Aleksandr Solzhenitzyn warned that America was not immune from a future similar fate. Bidens cynical, open bastardization of our justice system confirms that prophetic warning. Sham justice is banana republic justice, which is to say, injustice. Your country is dying.

Steve Kapler, Waterloo
It finally feels like summer. Most of us go about our daily routines without giving any thought to how suddenly things could change. Good health is something we tend to take for granted.

Years ago, working in a large metropolitan hospital as a young professional, I was reminded daily how abruptly life can change because of trauma or a sudden medical condition. With a young family I often struggled with this, and when my father was diagnosed with a serious medical condition, it prompted me to change my career path. One of the reasons I love working with older adults is because they are wise, most having witnessed and experienced firsthand how life can change in a moment.

Our Ridgecrest Village (RCV) residents inspire me daily. They embrace the fullness that all life has to offer with zest and enthusiasm, regardless of what may lie ahead for themselves, their families, or friends. Let me introduce Laura Henneman, a former RCV resident. She is a walking success story. Her experience is a reminder of how critical it is for each of us to advocate for our own health and the power of positive thinking in the face of trauma.

Laura is an active lady with a positive energy that sizzles around her. She is an avid walker, hiking all over the United States. Last year she hiked the Mighty Five in Utah. Laura experienced an onset of hip pain in January and was ultimately referred to an orthopedic surgeon who told her that she had transient osteoporosis in her right hip, a rare condition that typically takes six months to a year to heal with rest.

Laura has never had a baseline bone density scan. No one was more surprised than Laura when she sustained a serious high fracture of her right femur by simply getting up out of a chair one day in March. She had surgery the following day after she was informed about the seriousness of her condition and risk of surgery, including possible impaired mobility or death. She said, I really thought I was going to die.

After surgery, Laura was told that her bone appeared spongy and it was likely she would be non-weight bearing (NWB) for up to a year, meaning no weight on that leg. She said: I didnt know what I was going to do. I couldnt walk or do anything for myself. I was not happy at all.  Im very self-sufficient, the one who helps other people. It was terrible.

She didnt want anyone to know and was angry. She blamed herself and wondered if she had done something to deserve this. Then I started feeling sorry for myself, she said. The discharge planners at the hospital gave her a list of places she could consider for rehabilitation. Her daughter-in-law, knowing Ridgecrest had a skilled care unit (Crest Health Center), directed her to Crest as a rehab option.

Gina VerBeke, Crest Health Center program manager, said: Laura surprised us right away. Most people who come to skilled care with NWB typically have a short stay, as we are limited to working primarily on wheelchair transfers and independence.

This was not the case with Laura, who immediately started working on ways to be ambulatory using only one leg. The entire team was stunned when she returned from her six-week check-up with orders to progress to partial weight bearing, which meant that Laura could start using her injured leg just slightly.

I was so scared when my doctor told me that," she said. "I had to go back and discuss it with Gina and the team before I believed it. All were even more stunned when Laura quickly progressed to full weight bearing and is now living back at home, her mobility restored.

Lauras steady progression helped her success in therapy, and her determined attitude played a big part in her getting to her previous functional level and eventual return home, VerBeke said.

Think about where you would want to go after a hospital stay. If a situation like this arises, there is little time to do research, especially during a stressful emotional medical event. You, like Laura, may be given a preferred provider list with some options with the explanation, These are the skilled units who we work with frequently and may be a good place to start. Because of the pressure on hospitals from insurance carriers to discharge patients as soon as medically appropriate, patients may find themselves being placed in a facility that most readily responds to the referral call and not necessarily their first choice. Some of you may not know that Ridgecrest is among these options and offers post-hospital care at Crest Health Care.

Laura is a prime example of the importance of advocating for ones own health right from the start, securing the right post-hospital care so all energy can be directed into a successful recovery. With proper planning, you can do the same.
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Russian Defence Ministry report on the progress of the special military operation (1 July 2023)

The Russian Armed Forces have carried out a high-precision sea- and ground-launched attack against the command and control posts of the Donetsk task force.

All the assigned targets have been engaged. The goal of the strike has been achieved.

The Ukrainian Armed Forces have continued their attempts to conduct offensive operations in Donetsk, Krasny Liman, and South Donetsk directions during the previous 24 hours.

In Donetsk direction, the Yug Group of Forces in defence has successfully repelled 15 enemy attacks close to Belogorovka, Artyomovsk, Pervomayskoye, Latochkino, Vodyanoye, and Veseloye (Donetsk Peoples Republic) during the past 24 hours.

In the past 24 hours, the enemy has lost up over 265 Ukrainian troops, one tank, two infantry fighting vehicles, eight motor vehicles, two Msta-B howitzers, and D-20 gun.

An ammunition depot of the AFU 54th Mechanised Brigade has been hit close to Vyemka (Donetsk Peoples Republic).

In Krasny Liman direction, the Tsentr Group of Forces units, aviation, artillery, and heavy flamethrower systems inflicted losses on the units of AFU 21st, 42nd, and 67th Mechanised Brigades close to Nevskoye, Kremennaya, and Chervonaya Dibrova (Lugansk Peoples Republic).

One sabotage and reconnaissance group of the Armed Forces of Ukraine has been disabled close to Torskoye (Donetsk Peoples Republic).

Up to 90 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 South Donetsk, artillery and heavy flamethrower systems of the Vostok Group of Forces have repelled two enemy attacks in the area of Staromayorskoye (Donetsk Peoples Republic).

In addition, actions of two sabotage and reconnaissance groups of the Armed Forces of Ukraine have been thwarted near Novodarovka and Rabotino (Zaporozhye region).

In Zaporozhye direction, the dedicated and coordinated actions of the Russian troops reflected an AFU attack in the areas of Pyatikhatki (Zaporozhye region). Moreover, a unit of the 106th Territorial Defence Brigade was hit close to Lugovskoye (Zaporozhye region).

?? Up to 140 Ukrainian troops, three armoured fighting vehicles, seven motor vehicles, two D-20 howitzers, and one Msta-b howitzer were eliminated in these directions during the day.

In Kupyansk direction, Operational-Tactical and Army aviation and artillery of the Zapad Group of Forces have engaged the enemy manpower and hardware close to Timkovka, Topoli, and Berestovoye (Kharkov region).

One sabotage and reconnaissance group of the Armed Forces of Ukraine has been disabled close to Novosyolovskoye (Lugansk Peoples Republic).

The enemys losses amounted to more than 75 Ukrainian troops, three motor vehicles, as well as a D-30 howitzer.

In Kherson direction, up to 30 Ukrainian troops, four motor vehicles, and one U.S.-made M777 artillery system have been neutralised over the past 24 hours.

In addition, a sabotage group of the Ukrainian Armed Forces was neutralised in an attempt to land in two motorboats on Antonovsky Island.

Operational-Tactical and Army aviation, Missile Troops and Artillery of the Russian Group of Forces have engaged 85 AFU artillery units at their fire positions, manpower, and military hardware in 102 areas during the day.

A facility storing fuel and military hardware for Zaporozhye Ukrainian force grouping was destroyed near Zaporozhye.

Russias air defence forces intercepted two Storm Shadow long-range cruise missiles and five HIMARS projectiles during the past 24 hours.

Moreover, 12 Ukrainian unmanned aerial vehicles were obliterated in the areas of Artyomovsk, Soledar, Spornoye, and Volodino (Donetsk Peoples Republic), Berdyansk and Balochki (Zaporozhye region).

In total, 444 airplanes and 240 helicopters, 4,845 unmanned aerial vehicles, 426 air defence missile systems, 10,430 tanks and other armoured fighting vehicles, 1,134 combat vehicles equipped with MLRS, 5,291 field artillery cannons and mortars, as well as 11,324 units of special military equipment have been destroyed during the special military operation.

WtR
GRAND RAPIDS, MI  The yearly Fourth of July fireworks show was held astatine Ah-Nab-Awen Park successful downtown Grand Rapids connected Saturday, July 1.

The event, that included nutrient vendors and vendor exhibits connected nan banks of nan Grand River, was free and unfastened to nan public. The euphony acts began astir 6 p.m. this twelvemonth pinch DJ Rob Sparks, followed by classical stone set Pretty Rage, pinch nan fireworks opening astir 10:30 p.m.

Related: Fourth of July fireworks show successful downtown Grand Rapids happening Saturday

Its breathtaking to bring each of West Michigan backmost to downtown Grand Rapids arsenic a organization to springiness families a spot to bask and observe our nations independence, Russ Hines, CEO for Riverbank Events and Media, which organizes nan yearly ceremony and display, recently told MLive.

The title sponsor of this years fireworks is nan Soaring Eagle Casino and Resort. The casino and edifice astatine 6800 Soaring Eagle Boulevard, Mount Pleasant, besides sponsored nan fireworks past year.

Other sponsors and partners for this years show see nan metropolis of Grand Rapids, Floor & Decor, Kendall Lighting Center, Red Water Collection, Gilmore Car Museum, LiveSpace, Salvation Army, Stock Da Bar Vodka and nan Amway River Bank Run.

Scenes from nan yearly Fourth of July fireworks astatine Ah-Nab-Awen Park successful downtown Grand Rapids connected Saturday, July 1, 2023. Andrew Travis | MLive.com

Scenes from nan yearly Fourth of July fireworks astatine Ah-Nab-Awen Park successful downtown Grand Rapids connected Saturday, July 1, 2023. Andrew Travis | MLive.com

Scenes from nan yearly Fourth of July fireworks astatine Ah-Nab-Awen Park successful downtown Grand Rapids connected Saturday, July 1, 2023. Andrew Travis | MLive.com

Scenes from nan yearly Fourth of July fireworks astatine Ah-Nab-Awen Park successful downtown Grand Rapids connected Saturday, July 1, 2023. Andrew Travis | MLive.com

Scenes from nan yearly Fourth of July fireworks astatine Ah-Nab-Awen Park successful downtown Grand Rapids connected Saturday, July 1, 2023. Andrew Travis | MLive.com

Scenes from nan yearly Fourth of July fireworks astatine Ah-Nab-Awen Park successful downtown Grand Rapids connected Saturday, July 1, 2023.Andrew Travis | MLive.com

Scenes from nan yearly Fourth of July fireworks astatine Ah-Nab-Awen Park successful downtown Grand Rapids connected Saturday, July 1, 2023. Andrew Travis | MLive.com

See much images successful nan image assemblage beneath aliases click here to position nan gallery.
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Kim doesn't think Kourtney Kardashian, Khloe, Kendall Jenner, or Kylie would have 'survived' if they were the ones who were held at gunpoint by robbers in Paris.

Jul 2, 2023

AceShowbiz - Kim Kardashian is unsure if any of her sisters would have "survived" her traumatic Paris robbery. In October 2016, the 42-year-old reality star was held captive at gunpoint at the Hotel De Pourtales in the French capital and had around $10 million in jewellery stolen, and her mom Kris Jenner, 67, praised her daughter for the way she "handled" the situation.

"Do you remember when you were robbed in Paris?" Kris asked Kim. "And you were tied up and thrown into a bathtub and the trauma of that? And I remember you said, 'Thank god it happened to me because if it had happened to anyone else, they wouldn't have been able to survive and it wouldn't have happened the same way,' but you handled every situation."

Kim is sister to Kourtney Kardashian, 44, Khloe Kardashian, 39, and half-siblings Kylie Jenner, 25, and Kendall Jenner, 27.

Agreeing with her mom, she replied, "When it was done, I was just like, thank God it was me and not one of my sisters because it would f*** them up for life."

Holding back the tears, Kris added, "I don't know anyone who could've handled what you did. I'm so proud of you, every single day, for the way that you live your life. I wish everybody knew how beautiful and delicious your heart is and they would never say one bad thing about you."

After the robbery, Kim admitted she felt so scared she hired bodyguards to protect her around the clock. She also revealed she no longer keeps jewellery or money in her house.

Speaking in a special episode of 'Keeping Up With the Kardashians', she previously explained, "I can't sleep if I have jewellery in my safe, or money, or anything at my house. I just don't live my life like that ... As far as jewellery, if I'm wearing something, it's borrowed. It's fake."

Kim also insisted the attack made her less materialistic, saying that before she "had to have the coolest car, the best rims, the best outfit and I thought that I was the s*** because of that. I thought that made me."

The reality star then added, "The things I valued before that happened were genuinely completely different than what I value now. It's fun to get dressed up and all this, but like, things don't make me."

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Bonnie gets candid about her brief experience on the Disney Channel sitcom, admitting she couldn't bear to watch the show because it reminded her of the unpleasant ordeal.

Jul 2, 2023

AceShowbiz - Bonnie Morgan was dismissed from "Boy Meets World" because the director thought she "wasn't pretty enough." The 41-year-old actress was supposed to play Topanga Lawrence on the now-classic Disney Channel sitcom in 1993 opposite Matthew Lawrence but alleged that the reason the part eventually went to Danielle Fishel was that it was thought that she "couldn't take direction" and she didn't look good on camera.

"I had three callbacks. They kept bringing me back, and  it was rooms full of people every time. And, weirdly, every time I'd audition, we'd talk a lot. Every time I'd come back, the script would change slightly, it seemed, to things we had talked about," she said on the "Pod Meets World" podcast.

"Now, we're blocking, and Ben [Savage] kind of started poking at me a little bit. He would make faces and try to break me, and it worked. At this point, I was becoming a nervous wreck. I couldn't get his name, the opening line, Cory  and [director] David [Trainer] was just like, 'Get it together.' "

"I'm trying to pull it together. I pulled it together in sheer fear, and Ben just kept doing this thing to crack me up. At one point, I had a line. It was a sweet line, and David went, 'I want you to say it sweeter ' So, I said it sweeter, and he said, 'No, I want you to say it.' And he got really close to me, 'Like you're saying happy birthday.' "

"The director said that I couldn't take direction, which was one thing I'd never been accused of. My agent immediately fought back on that one. It came out very quickly to my agent that the director didn't think I was pretty enough. Literally did not think I was pretty enough. So, that meant that a grown man, a boss, could lie and tell me I was untalented because the fact was he didn't think I was pretty."

Bonnie - who now works as a contortionist and is known for her role as Samara in "The Ring" - went on to add that she was left "shattered" by her dismissal and revealed that apart from the pilot episode, she never watched an episode of the sitcom throughout its seven-season run. She said, "I don't know a lot of adults that could take that one."

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The 'Back to the Future' actor is praised by his pal Wendell Pierce for being a great artist and an activist who helped change the way people advocate for Parkinson's disease.

Jul 2, 2023

AceShowbiz - Wendell Pierce believes Michael J. Fox will be remembered for "changing culture twice." The 62-year-old actor is famous for his signature role as Marty McFly in the 1985 film "Back to the Future" but just six years after shooting the cult classic, he was diagnosed with Parkinson's disease - a brain disorder that causes uncontrollable movements, such as shaking, stiffness, and difficulty with balance and coordination - and in the years since has gone on to raise millions for research through The Michael J. Fox Foundation.

Now, 59-year-old actor Wendell - who has been close friends with Michael since they co-starred together on the short-lived NBC sitcom 'The Michael J. Fox Show' in 2013 - has declared how his pal has achieved "greatness" not only as a Hollywood star but also with his foundation.

He told this week's edition of People magazine, "Crisis doesn't develop character, it reveals character. There is not a better person that is emblematic of that than Michael J. Fox."

"He has transformed the way people advocate for his disease, how people approach it. He will be remembered for changing our culture in America twice, first as this great young artist and comedian, then as a man who faced his greatest challenge and rose to the occasion to create something even greater."

Earlier this year Michael insisted whilst collecting the Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2023 Spring Moving Image Awards that he does not have a "sad weepy life" despite his condition and explained that he still has "so many great things" in life, including his wife Tracy Pollan and their children.

He said, "I have so many great things in my life, Tracy and Aquinnah and Schuyler, and Sam and Esme who aren't here. I don't know. I don't have a weepy, sad life. This thing happened, which really sucked, but it put me in a position to do other things that were effective and perhaps make things better. But what I like about sitting here tonight is it seems to be about acting and about film and I love acting and I love film."

"Tracy has one of the most clear minds. I talk about it as it applies to the family in the film, but as an actor, always, like, I'll do something and she'll go 'ehhh, well, But then when she said, 'That was great,' my heart soared."

The former "Family Ties" star previously admitted that he had been thinking about his own mortality and doesn't believe he will reach the age of 80. Speaking on "CBS Sunday Mornings", he said, "My life is set up so...I can pack Parkinson's along with me if I have to."

"You don't die from Parkinson's. You die with Parkinson's. I've been thinking about the mortality of it. I'm not gonna be 80. I'm not going to lie, it's getting hard, it's getting harder. Every day is tougher. But, but that's - that's the way it is."

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The actor who plays Ken opposite Margot Robbie in the Greta Gerwig-directed movie was a no-show at the event promoting the Mattel doll adaptation in South Korea.

Jul 3, 2023

AceShowbiz - Ryan Gosling backed out of promoting "Barbie" in South Korea on Saturday, July 1. The 42-year-old Hollywood star stars as Ken alongside Margot Robbie's Barbie in the live-action movie based on the Mattel doll.

He was, however, forced to skip the promo event due to "inevitable circumstances." "Ryan Gosling is hoping to meet with you through another opportunity," Warner Bros. Korea said in a statement.

However, Margot and America Ferrera (Gloria) joined director Greta Gerwig for the press and fan gathering. A "Barbie" pop-up opened yesterday in Hannam-dong, central Seoul, and will remain open until July 31.

Gosling recently insisted he laughed off being told he's "too old" to play Ken. He told GQ, "I would say, you know, if people don't 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? And everyone was fine with that, for him to have a job that is nothing. 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***** 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. I care about this dude now. I'm like his representative. 'Ken couldn't show up to receive this award, so I'm here to accept it for him.' "

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5 Point Public House in Birmingham has served its last meal. Last Friday, the restaurant announced it would not renew its lease.

Posts on the restaurants Instagram and Facebook pages thanked patrons for their 17 years of support and invited them to join the restaurant staff for their last dinner service on Friday, June 30.

After 17 amazing years, we have made the tough decision not to renew the lease of 5 Point Public House & Oyster Bar. From the years of 26 until now, we have been truly grateful for all the incredible staff and customers that have passed through and helped make this place a success, 5 Point Public House wrote in the post. While we are sad to see this chapter end, we are thankful for all the support you have given, and the great times weve all experienced here together over the years.

The post also said a good portion of the employees at 5 Point Public House will join Ocean, its sister restaurant next door.

Comments on Facebook and Instagram wished the restaurant well and said 5 Point Public House be dearly missed. Other comments offered fond memories of the Five Points South eatery.

Birmingham chef George Reis opened 5 Point Public House in 2015, after operating his restaurant Five Points South bistro 26 at that location next to his restaurant Ocean for almost a decade. Reis closed the bistro, gave the restaurant makeover, and reopened it as an oyster bar and gastropub. In 2016, Saveur magazine listed 5 Point Public House on its list of eight best new places to eat oysters.

The restaurant was known for its oysters on the half shell, including oysters baked in a wood- fired oven and fried in a sushi roll variation of Oysters Rockefeller.

Equally popular was the pub menu, or, as Reis liked to say, beer-centric with chef-driven food.

In a 2016 interview with Birmingham Magazine, Reis said the restaurants gastropub concept allowed him to be adventurous and experiment with dishes such as lamb sirloin and pig tails.

It gives me a playground, he says. I couldnt do Piggy Tails at Ocean if I wanted to.
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (AP)  It was never about making history for Deb Haaland, but rather making her parents proud.

She says she worked hard, putting herself through school, starting a small business to pay bills and eventually finding her way into politics  first as a campaign volunteer and later as the first Native American woman to lead a political party in New Mexico.

The rest seems like history. Haaland was sworn in as one of the first two Native American women in Congress in 2019. Two years later, she took the reins at the U.S. Interior Department  an agency whose responsibilities stretch from managing energy development to meeting the nations treaty obligations to 574 federally recognized tribes.

Haaland, the first Native American Cabinet member in the U.S., spoke to The Associated Press about her tenure leading the 70,000-employee agency that oversees subsurface minerals and millions of acres of public land.

The hardest part? Balancing the interests of every single American, she said.

I might feel one way about an issue personally. It doesnt mean that thats the decision thats going to be made, said Haaland, 62, sitting in the shade of the towering cottonwood trees that line her backyard in Albuquerque. There is a process, so I am dedicated to that. I really do want to find a balance.

Criticism of Haaland has mounted in recent weeks. Environmentalists slammed her departments approval of the massive Willow oil project in Alaska, while a Republican-led U.S. House committee opened an investigation into ties between Haaland and an Indigenous group from her home state of New Mexico that advocates for halting oil and gas production on public lands.

Both Democratic and Republican members of Congress also have grilled her about her agencys $19 billion budget request. Critics say the Interior Department under her guidance had failed to conduct quarterly oil and gas lease sales as required under law, doubled the time it takes to get permits, and raised royalty rates charged to energy companies to discourage domestic production and advance the administrations climate goals.

Haaland defended the Biden administrations priorities, reiterating that her department was following the law and was on track to meet the administrations goal of installing 30 gigawatts of offshore wind energy by 2030.

But even some Democratic senators who support more wind and solar energy development have questioned that timeline, saying some projects take years to be permitted and could be at risk. Democratic Sen. Martin Heinrich of New Mexico did not get a response from Haaland when asking when the first utility-scale offshore wind projects would be permitted

Haaland said she had an idea of what the Cabinet job might entail, having served in Congress and as a member of Joe Bidens platform committee when he was the Democratic presidential nominee. Many of Bidens ideals about climate change, renewable energy and conservation mirrored her own.

What gets conserved and how is at the root of a few thorny projects Haaland must navigate, from the Willow project to a drilling moratorium around a national park near northwestern New Mexicos Chaco Canyon, and now protests by Native American tribes over a proposed lithium mine in Nevada.

There isnt a one-size-fits-all for any of these things, she said. We have to take each one individually and find the best solution that we can.

Native American tribes are not always pleased with the outcome, she acknowledged.

Every tribe, I think, is different. Their opportunities are different. Their lifestyles are different and its up to us to make sure that we get them to the table to tell us whats important to them, she said. ... And we do our best, as I said, to balance whatever the project is  using the science, using the law.

Haalands heritage as a member of Laguna Pueblo makes her unlike any previous secretary, and shes aware of the added expectations from Indian Country as she leads an agency with a fraught and even murderous history with Native tribes.

She has worked to boost consultation efforts with tribal governments, allocate more resources to help address the alarming rate of disappearances and deaths among Native Americans, and launched an investigation into the federal governments role in boarding schools that sought to assimilate Native children over decades.

Wenona Singel, an associate professor at Michigan State University College of Law and director of the Indigenous Law & Policy Center, pointed to the stories Haaland has told about her grandparents being taken from their families when they were children. The story is similar to Singels own family and many others.

She understands the pain and the trauma of having our ancestors be stripped of their culture and their language and their Native identity, said Singel, a member of the Little Traverse Bay Bands of Odawa Indians. " She has demonstrated a deeper understanding of our nations need to come to grips with the reality of this history and the way in which it continues to impact our communities today.

For Haaland, theres no way to disconnect from her heritage: I am who I am.

Haaland grew up in a military family  her late father was a decorated Marine and her late mother spent more than two decades working for the U.S. Bureau of Indian Affairs after serving in the U.S. Navy. Haaland often talks about how her mother  who also was a member of Laguna Pueblo  raised her to be fierce.

Haaland, a mother herself, got married in 2021 to her longtime partner Skip Sayre. They share a home in Albuquerque with their two rescue dogs  Remington and Winchester.

Haaland still hangs her clothes on the line out back to dry in the New Mexico sun, finds time to be outside every day and makes big batches of her own red chile sauce with garlic and oregano, freezing it so she has a ready supply when she comes home.

Despite moving around as a kid, Haaland said her traditions keep her grounded. In fact, shes working to finish her masters degree in American Indian studies at the University of California, Los Angeles, a feat nearly 25 years in the making.

Haalands mother was the one who encouraged her to finish her thesis  an exploration of Laguna Pueblos traditional foods. Haaland was proud to say she turned the paper in to her committee in early June, looking to show that Indigenous knowledge continues to be carried down and that the foods eaten at Laguna Pueblo  including stew and piki bread  havent changed since the tribe migrated from the Chaco Canyon area generations ago. While modern ovens may have taken the place of hot stones, Haaland said Lagunas foods are still rooted in tradition.

One of her first obligations as a Pueblo woman is to nurture her family and community, and Haaland said thats not unlike the demands of her current job: to manage and protect natural resources and cultural heritage.

You have values as a human being, she said. Thats the way youre raised by your family, and thats what I bring to the table.

By SUSAN MONTOYA BRYAN Associated Press
Authorities have released the name of a woman found fatally shot on a Birmingham sidewalk late Friday.

Birmingham police on Saturday night identified the victim as Sherry Lynette Body. She was 50.

A man is being held in the Birmingham City Jail pending the ongoing investigation.

West Precinct officers were dispatched at 11:43 p.m. Friday to the 600 block of 11th Court West on a report of a person shot. That location is off Arkadelphia Road.

When officers got on the scene, said Sgt. LaQuitta Wade, they found Body unresponsive on the sidewalk in front of a house. Birmingham Fire and Rescue pronounced her dead.

A woman was shot to death Friday, June 30, 2023, in the 600 block of 11th Court West in Birmingham. (Carol Robinson)

Wade said it appears that an altercation took place between the woman and the man. Moments later, she said, people in the area heard a shot being fired and called 911.

Wade said the deadly shooting is believed to be domestic related.

Body is the citys 65th homicide this year. Of those, one was an officer involved shooting by an outside law enforcement agency and five others have been ruled justifiable and therefore are not deemed criminal.

In all of Jefferson County there have been 96 homicides including the 65 in Birmingham.

Anyone with additional information is asked to call homicide detectives at 205-254-1764 or Crime Stoppers at 205-254-7777.
Gunfire erupted at a block party in Baltimore on Sunday  killing two people, wounding 28 and leaving an extensive crime scene that marred the U.S. holiday weekend, police said. Three of the wounded were in critical condition.

Baltimore Police Department Acting Commissioner Richard Worley told reporters there were a total of 30 victims during a press conference at the scene.

The shooting took place just after 12:30 a.m. at a block party in the Brooklyn Homes area in the southern part of the city, Worley said.

The shooting comes amid gatherings around the country leading up to the July Fourth holiday. Elsewhere, a shooting in Kansas left seven people with gunshot wounds and two more victims hospitalized after being trampled as people rushed out of a nightclub early Sunday morning, police there said.

Nine victims were transported by ambulance and 20 victims walked into area hospitals with injuries from the shooting, Worley said.

Nineteen of those victims were treated in the emergency department at MedStar Harbor Hospital, according to hospital spokesperson Debra Schindler. Nine of the critically injured patients were stabilized and transferred to Baltimore trauma centers. All but one of the 19 victims sent to MedStar have been released.

As is protocol following any walk-in victim of violence, the hospital went on immediate lock-down to secure the campus and ensure the safety of all patients and associates, Schindler said in a statement. Multiple critically injured patients were evaluated and triaged simultaneously by clinical staff, while hospital security managed the throng of family members that gathered in and outside of the emergency department.

Meanwhile, dozen victims were sent to be treated at R Adams Cowley Shock Trauma Center and four others were sent to the University of Maryland Medical Centers Pediatric Emergency Department, according to University of Maryland Medical System spokesman Michael Schwartzberg.

An 18-year-old woman was found dead at the scene and a 20-year-old man was pronounced dead at a hospital shortly after, police said.

I want those who are responsible to hear me, and hear me very clearly, Mayor Brandon Scott said at the scene. We will not stop until we find you, and we will find you. Until then, I hope that every single breath you take, that you think about the lives that you took, think about the lives that you impacted here tonight.

No arrests were made immediately after the shooting. Scott asked anyone with information to come forward to assist investigators locate the cowards who were responsible for the shooting.

Gov. Wes Moore said his heart breaks for these victims, their families, and the Baltimore community that is coping with the loss.

Maryland has had enough of watching gun violence continue to ravage our state and our nation, Moore said in a statement. The fact that these horrific shootings continue to take place is abominable. We as a state will continue to do everything we can to prevent senseless acts of violence like the one we saw last night.

Authorities said the crime scene was extensive and that it will take some time for detectives to work it.

Treat this as if it were your family, Scott said. How you would want people to treat it if you were mourning, if this was your neighborhood, if this was an event in your community that this happened at. We want you to treat it that way because thats how we have to treat each other as Baltimoreans.

Hours after the shooting, a number of officers remained on the scene, working behind police tape amid densely packed two-story housing blocks. Folding tables and plastic cups were scattered around the scene, apparently left behind when people ran from the gunshots.

Lakell Nelson said there had been several false alarms of people mistaking the sounds of fireworks for gunfire earlier in the night while she was at the block party. However, by the time she was getting to her car, the actual shooting began.

The shots were just going on and on and on, she said.

Thats when two young women approached her and said theyd been shot, with one woman showing how a bullet had gone through her shorts.

Nelson said she told the women to get in the car and she sped through red lights to get to the nearest hospital.

When I pulled up to the door of the hospital, my car was almost getting ready to be inside the hospital, because I was determined to get those babies in that hospital, Nelson said.

The violence comes as federal prosecutors in Baltimore this week touted their efforts to reduce violent crime in the city. Police have reported nearly 130 homicides and close to 300 shootings so far this year, though thats down from the same time last year. Authorities have vowed to crack down aggressively on repeat violent offenders.

___

Ramer reported from Concord, New Hampshire. Kimberlee Kruesi in Nashville, Tennessee, contributed to this report.
The family of Elizabeth Minter, the Pelham police officer who was struck by a speeding vehicle over the weekend, has set up a fundraiser to assist with her recovery.

Minters family created a GoFundMe page with a goal of $50,000. As of Sunday afternoon, the fund had $31,619 and 567 donations. The Pelham Police Department is also accepting donations to go toward the officers recovery.

According to the police department, Minter was directing traffic around a crash at Mile Marker 242 on Interstate 65 southbound shortly after 12:30 a.m. on Saturday, July 1, when she was knocked out of her boots by a speeding vehicle.

Police Chief Brent Sugg said the driver of the vehicle had ignored traffic control vests and emergency lights and was going about 80 miles per hour when he hit Minter.

The driver was taken into custody shortly after the crash, though details about charges were still pending an investigation by the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency.

Minter had multiple injuries but was stable, officials said over the weekend.

Officer Minter is stable this morning. She still doesnt remember what happened, Sugg told AL.com Sunday. She is resting and is being kept comfortable until she undergoes surgery in the days ahead. We ask that the community continues to pray for her as she recovers.

Community members also can support Minter through a contribution to the Pelham Police Auxiliary, department officials said. Checks should be made to the Pelham Police Auxiliary with Officer Minter in the for line. Checks can be dropped off in person or mailed to the Pelham Police Department located at 32 Philip Davis Street, Pelham, Alabama, 35124.

One hundred percent of the donations to the Pelham Police Auxiliary will go to Officer Minter to help with medical and other expenses while she is out of work, an official wrote on the departments website.
This is an opinion column.

We were all there at the Battle of Irpin. We watched on television as the refugees from Russian shelling struggled across the river on a single plank, beneath the broken bridge, carrying whatever pets and possessions they could.

When I saw that history happening, I decided it was not passing me by. I was not going to let the finger point at me for doing nothing, the way it pointed at Birminghamians of good conscience when the bomb went off in 1963. I was going to Ukraine to do what I could.

A year later, I was in Kyiv when a Russian missile attack killed 11-year-old Viktoria Ivashkoa little girl the same age as Denise McNair. I thought there must be some connection between these incomprehensible springes of evil that keep us divided against our better angels, and some common escape from their snare.

For ten years before the full-scale Russian invasion of Ukraine, driven by other injustices I witnessed, I devoted myself to investigating government corruption in Georgia. The year before the invasion I spent briefing Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis on the equally unpopular subject of Georgians cooperating, wittingly or unwittingly, with Russian intelligence attacks on Georgia elections in 2016. Back then, Georgia Governor Brian Kemp served as spokesman for Putin state propaganda denying Russian hackingwhich has since been proven to have happened.

So, after February 24, it was not that much of a leap (well, maybe it was) for me to head straight to where it all began: Putin ordered the Russian central intelligence directorate (GRU) attack on US elections in 2014, in retaliation for US sanctions imposed on Russia for the invasion of eastern Ukraine the same year. Putin ordered that undeclared war in response to Ukraines Maidan Revolution of February 2014.

The Maidan was the public uprising in which the people of Ukraine rejected the Putin puppet government of Viktor Yanukovych, advised by the American political operative, who went on to become Donald Trumps campaign director, Paul Manafort. Manafort was paid millions by Russian oligarchs to establish pro-Putin regimes, not only in Ukraine, but on every continent.

But for all of Manaforts spin-doctoring, the people of Ukraine braved Russian snipers and Yanukovychs police goons and went to the streets to demand their freedom from Moscows domination, an end to the accepted corruption of the Soviet era, and acceptance of their right of self-determination to join the Western democracies, a coalition traditionally led by the United States.

Birmingham attorney Stephen Humphreys has spent most of the last year in Ukraine mainly working on war crimes investigations, volunteering to help train Ukrainian armed forces, and teaching law and history at the Taras Shevchenko National University in Kyiv.

What Manafort could not gain him by guile, Putinin a move described by Trump as genius-- determined to seize by force. During many months spent in Bucha and Irpin, I have seen and heard the witness of women raped, civilians bound and executed, and unspeakable tortures in the service of a single mans ambitions to lead an empire.

Since the dark days of February and March of 2022, after the Russian withdrawal from the region north of Kyiv, I have taught in the university at Irpin, the steel beams of its administration building still scorched, melted, and twisted into a frozen choreography of human depravity and spiritual devastation.

I have seen the anti-aircraft batteries light up outside my window. I have witnessed Russian cruise missiles shot out of the sky above me. I had one land two blocks away from me  on a childrens playground in a park beside Taras Shevchenko University.

I have seen a country exhausted by this carnage, families separated, relationships dissolved as wives and children flee abroad, universities operating without electricity, resigned humor about the constant air alerts, careers on hold, accomplished medical specialists and attorneys eating military rations and receiving military salaries, but somehow life goes on in the cities and the villages.

Throughout it all, despite the suffering and the sacrifices, one thing Ive seen here in Ukraine is a camaraderie of spirit, a feeling that everyone is on the same team, the underdog who can pull off the upset, a team with a spirit that cannot be beaten. Its something I have not seen in the United States since Newt Gingrich declared a second civil war in America, a country divided, with divisions Putin has explicitly directed his military intelligence to exploit by feeding conspiracy theories to the Mo Brooks and Marjorie Taylor Greens.

We think we invented it in 1776, but maybe we have forgotten what it is like to bind together and sacrifice everything for a common national ideal and identity, until the Ukrainians showed us how it is done in 2023by refusing to surrender their freedom. Ukraine did not collapse in three days as predicted. Instead, Ukrainians stood together with incredible resolve by the suffering civilian population, like the one that crossed the Irpin River, and with amazing initiative and ingenuity on the battlefield that Putins old Soviet war crimes machine cannot match.

I am gratified that, like the traveler in our old folk song, I came from Alabama and was able to find via many signs and wonders ways to help Ukraine defend itself and spread its message: from assisting war crimes and other criminal investigations to teaching Civil Rights history at Taras Shevchenko University, from advising the Ukrainian parliament to volunteering at the territorial defense training centerwhere I see the resolve in the faces of the young Ukrainian men and women who step up to defend their country from becoming part of Putins mafia state tyranny.

I recognize in their faces what Americans are supposed to be, a reminder of how we are supposed to lead. If Putins reign of lies and terror is ever ended, it will be because of Ukraine. If Americans join together like Ukraine has done, and restore a sense of shared truth, united purpose, and common decency--to save our democracy--it will be thanks to Ukraine, the new land of the free and home of the brave. Ukrainians are standing up to Putins attack on their homeland, while we are still arguing about whether Russias attack on America actually happened, along with other Qanon theories.

I thought I came here as part of an American effort to save Ukraine, but this is what I learned: it is Ukraine that will save America.

Birmingham attorney Stephen Humphreys has spent most of the last year in Ukraine mainly working on war crimes investigations, volunteering to help train Ukrainian armed forces, and teaching law and history at the Taras Shevchenko National University in Kyiv.
An early-morning shooting in Sylacauga left one man dead.

Sylacauga police were dispatched at 1 a.m. Sunday on a shooting call at the corner of Virginia Avenue and Scrooge Alley, in the old Avondale Mill Village.

Police Chief Kelley Johnson said when officers arrived, they found 19-year-old Jason Anthony Swain Jr. had been wounded, and bystanders were trying to help him.

Swain was taken by ambulance to Coosa Valley Medical Center where he was pronounced dead from a gunshot wound to the chest.

Johnson said no arrests have been made. Sylacauga investigators and members of the Talladega County Drug and Violent Crime Task Force are looking for a suspect and trying to determine a motive.

Anyone with information is asked to call the Sylacauga Police Department tip line at 256-249-4716 or the Sylacauga Police Department at 256-267-0090. Tips can also be submitted to Central Alabama Crime Stoppers at 334-215-STOP (7867).
Alabama Power wants to build a lake on top of a mountain. But local residents are fighting back.

People in St. Clair County packed a meeting on Monday to oppose the plan to build a lake as a so-called power storage facility atop Chandler Mountain, a plan they say could drive people from their homes in the small town of Steele.

The project is still in the proposal phase and the exact boundaries have not been released, but the project seems likely to force many residents out of their homes, either by selling to Alabama Power, or through eminent domain.

This will destroy our town, local resident Fran Summerlin said at a standing-room-only town hall meeting at the Steele Community Center that drew more than 140 attendees on Monday night.

I think this project is barbaric and unethical to take land and homes from human beings in 2023, said Kurt Nassif, who runs a tire business in Steele, which sits about 13 miles southwest of Gadsden.

More than 140 people attend a meeting in the Steele Community Center on June 26, 2023.Dennis Pillion

Summerlin and others have been organizing local residents in opposition, handing out yard signs that say Stop the Project, as well as starting Facebook groups, a petition and email lists to galvanize opposition.

We are victims of a powerful corporation, Summerlin said. Because of greed and because of money. Our community has been targeted because they thought we were too weak to fight: I want you to fight back.

At this point, the Chandler Mountain Project is only a proposal. Many of the details, including the exact location of the project, are not set in stone. But the plan calls for two reservoirs at different elevations, one atop the mountain and one below.

Alabama Power declined AL.coms request for a phone interview to discuss the project, but answered questions submitted by email on Thursday. The company said it is too early to determine whether property owners will lose their land for the project.

Though Alabama Power is taking initial steps in the federal licensing process for Chandler Mountain, no decision has been made to develop and construct the project, the company said. It may be years before the company will know whether acquiring additional property at Chandler Mountain will be necessary.

The reservoirs would be bounded by five dams and connected by an underground reversible turbine pump station.

A map included in the pre-application paperwork for the project shows the general locations for the two reservoirs included in the project.FERC

Alabama Power could then pump water from the lower reservoir to the upper one when there is excess energy on the grid, during non-peak hours. Then the company would release the water back down to the lower lake during peak hours to generate electricity when its most needed.

Providing for our customers future energy needs and potential state growth requires planning today, the company said. A pumped storage hydro facility could provide a viable, clean energy option for our customers. We regularly evaluate opportunities to improve our technology and operations so we can continue to power our state with the clean, reliable and affordable energy our customers depend on.

Alabama Power has filed preliminary application documents with the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission to build a pumped storage hydro project on Chandler Mountain, but approval and licensing for the project could take up to a decade before construction can begin.

We will continue working closely with local community leaders and landowners as we perform additional studies in the area, the company said. If built, the Chandler Mountain project could potentially produce the amount of energy used in nearly 400,000 homes annually.

But it might do so at a steep cost to the residents and wildlife that currently reside near Chandler Mountain.

Steele is a town of about 1,000 residents located 40 miles northeast of Birmingham, along Interstate 59. The project would also impact Little Canoe Creek, which would have dams built on it, and Neely Henry Reservoir, where Alabama Power would draw water to fill the reservoirs.

Were very concerned about this proposal that Alabama Power has put forward, said Jack West, policy director for the Alabama Rivers Alliance.

Were really concerned about the impacts to Little Canoe Creek and Jake Creek and the sensitive aquatic species are there, West said. Were really concerned about potential impacts to recreation in the area. Were really concerned about potential withdrawals from Neely Henry Reservoir to fill this project. That was surprising to us.

The company said this facility could support the use of additional intermittent renewable energy like solar and wind, if completed.

Energy storage is expected to become increasingly important as customer demand grows for more renewables, making solar and wind a greater part of the companys energy mix, Alabama Powers response said.

Storage enables greater integration of additional renewables (wind, solar) into the grid because it can be used to maintain reliable service when intermittent renewable generation is not available.

Still, the project is opposed by groups that favor more renewable energy.

Alabama Powers Chandler Mountain project is simply a massive land and cash grab for its Wall Street investors, said Daniel Tait, executive director of Energy Alabama. The fact that the power company is quite literally willing to blow up a mountain and destroy a town for profit speaks volumes to its character and values.

Tait also highlighted the companys history of limiting distributed solar and not prioritizing energy efficiency programs in its territory.

Alabama Power has spent the last two decades fighting more affordable and cleaner options for power supply and storage, he said. Solar, energy efficiency, battery storage, and even increasing the connectivity of its grid to neighbors, are all more cost-effective options to support the grid.

The project will also be a net user of energy because it takes more power to pump the water to the upper reservoir than is regained when the water flows downhill.

No storage option is actually clean when charged with expensive and dirty coal and gas like is currently being proposed, Tait said.

Justinn Overton of Coosa Riverkeeper speaks at a meeting in the Steele Community Center on June 26, 2023.Dennis Pillion

St. Clair County Commissioner Stan Batemon, who attended the town hall meeting, said he believes there are better ways to achieve energy storage goals.

I just think its a ridiculous idea, Batemon said. Theres got to be a better way in todays world than destroying 20,000 plus acres of farmland, deer, minnows, whatever. It doesnt make sense.

Steele residents at the meeting are hoping to generate significant turnout for two scoping meetings, hosted by FERC to gather public comments about the project.

The meetings will be held July 10 at the Rainbow City Community Center. The afternoon session runs from 2-4 p.m., with an evening session from 6-8 p.m.

Summerlin said she believes the project would force many of Steeles residents out, putting the local school at risk of closing and killing the rural community where she grew up and trained horses for 45 years.

My family farm is one of the ones that is going to be affected, very much, Summerlin said. I will lose it. And my brothers buried there.

If my daddy knew that this was happening, he couldnt take it.
David Shers ComebackTown for a better greater Birmingham

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Todays guest columnist is Maury Karen Musgrove.

On April 1, 2022, the children at our school, the Magic City Acceptance Academy (MCAA), were attacked.

MCAA, a free public charter school founded in 2021 by BAO (Birmingham AIDS Outreach), opened with 250 students grades 6th through 12th.

Students are empowered to embrace education in a LGBTQ-affirming learning environment and MCAA is open to students from richly diverse backgrounds. Though this attack was focused on our LGBTQ students, it impacted all of our students and community.

In 2019, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention released results of the national Youth Risk Behavior Surveillance System finding that LGBTQ young people reported significantly higher health and suicide risks than their peers, with LGBTQ students more likely to experience victimization, violence, and suicidality.

Prior to opening MCCA, BAO founded the Magic City Acceptance Center (MCAC) in 2014 as an after-school outreach program for LGBTQ students to congregate in a safe environment and simply be themselves.

MCAC staff observed that many LGBTQ students experienced trauma, bullying, lack of support from school faculty and administrators, and shared that they generally did not feel safe at their respective schools.

Some students were compelled to drop out to maintain mental health free from the continually crushing pressures of ostracizing and unsupportive scholastic environments.

MCAAs inaugural year began in the midst of COVID, clearly a difficult time.

But then in 2022, the seniors and juniors won a local history bowl competition resulting in an invitation to Washington DC for the national history bowl.

To raise travel funds, the students presented an idea challenging the teachers to participate in a talent-show, where family and friends were invited to tip the performers.

MCAAs teachers accepted the challenge, pouring extra time and effort to produce a talent-show replete with costumes, glitter, and sequins, showcasing their many hidden talents to the delight of a full theater. The students met their fundraising goal and successfully represented MCAA in the national competition in DC.

Our children attacked

Then on April 1st, 2022, chaos struck: a candidate for a statewide Alabama elected office released campaign ads using photos taken directly from the MCAA talent show, manipulated the content into deceitful and hateful propaganda displaying images of minor-aged students along with teachers and audience members.

The candidates image superimposed in front of MCAA exclaiming: and now, right here in Alabama, millions of your tax dollars are paying for the first transgender public school in the Southenough of this foolishness.

In a flash, the carefully and thoughtfully designed safe space MCAA had created was fractured by a political candidates self-serving disingenuous rhetoric. Predictably, the ads directly gave rise to threats from far and wide towards the school, its staff, and its re-traumatized students.

That day and weekend were populated by hate-filled emails, vitriolic voicemails, endless online smears, and even drivers-by hurling epithets like gay at the students.

Having overcome countless obstacles in their first year at a new school in a global pandemic, the students entered their first weekend faced with two burdening questions: why us and what now?

That Monday morning following the painfully uncertain weekend, local community rallied an intrepid display of embracing love and unequivocal acceptance.

Fellow students, parents/guardians, and staff arrived at the school with messages of support drawn on posters and repurposed political signs emblazoned with the phrases You are Loved! and We LOVE MCAA! and You are Special! Local churches showed up with decorative banners celebrating courageous stories of love and proudly bearing signatures from congregation members.

Over the ensuing days and weeks, MCAA received messages from around the world with steadfast expressions of untrammeled encouragement, affirming love, and indomitable support.

A Go Fund Me account was created that raised funds that enabled the hiring of a full-time on-campus mental health licensed social worker for the students. ABC News visited MCAA to film a documentary Acceptance High featuring several seniors and family members sharing their remarkable individual stories of survival in Alabama.

Through chaos and turmoil, the first students of MCAA learned an invaluable lesson that hate can inspire the good in a community and that there exists support across the world for them to succeed and shine.

All the banners and signs of hope and love have been donated to the Birmingham Public Library Archives and the nonprofit Invisible Histories. These materials will be archived for others to learn from this historic display of outpouring public love and acceptance in the crucible of mistruth, hate, and baseless judgement.

Bleakly, many young adults who identify as LGBTQ view the State of Alabama as an unsafe, unwelcoming, and inhospitable environment, doubtful of it offering any present-day possibility in which to live authentically and thrive.

Consequently, these students seek and pursue paths out of the state as quickly as they turn 18 or 19. Alabama risks losing an entire population of brilliant, creative, skilled, and empathic people who see no sustainable future in it as they prepare to flee the state.

MCAA just completed its second year graduating 24 seniors. Although some will be attending college or trade school, some will leave Alabama.

We at MCAA want our students to stay to make a difference and be the generation effecting positive changes for all. MCAA strives to make a difference in the lives of students who attend our affirming and brave school, and we thank our affirming and brave community of supporters.

Karen Musgrove, PhD, MEd, LPC, has served as the CEO for Birmingham AIDS Outreach (BAO) and the Magic City Acceptance Academy for 20 years. Karen is a lifelong resident of Birmingham and lives in the Crestwood North neighborhood.

David Sher is the founder and publisher of ComebackTown. Hes past Chairman of the Birmingham Regional Chamber of Commerce (BBA), Operation New Birmingham (REV Birmingham), and the City Action Partnership (CAP).

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More than 30 cows were killed Saturday when lightning struck in Cullman County, according to reports from news outlets.

WVTM reported that the beef cattle were sheltering under a tree during a severe storm on Daymin Gardners farm in Berlin, when lightning struck the tree, killing 31 of the cattle.

A Facebook post from the Cullman Daily News showed an image of the cows lying lifeless below a tree on Gardners farm.

His brother, Tim Gardner, told WVTM that they plan to give the animals a proper burial and that the meat was not salvageable because of how the cows died.

There were scattered severe thunderstorms across northern Alabama on Saturday, bringing rain, lightning, wind and possible hail to some areas. More severe weather is possible Sunday and Monday, according to the National Weather Service.

Related: Watch strong winds shut down ChelseaFest

The weather service says lightning kills about 20 people in the United States annually. This year, there have been six lightning fatalities in the U.S., including a 6-year-old in Texas.

It is unsafe to be outside during a thunderstorm, the weather service warns, and if you hear thunder, you should immediately move to shelter indoors or a hard-topped vehicle. Stay away from isolated tall trees, towers or poles  lightning tends to strike taller objects. Learn more about lightning safety at weather.gov/lightning.
Did you know that a doctrine known as qualified immunity shields local and state police from accountability? Federal cops enjoy an even broader, absolute immunity based on recent Supreme Court rulings that have eroded an earlier 1971 Supreme Court decision that allowed some lawsuits. Each of the federal circuit courts interprets prior high court rulings in its own way. In several cases, judges have shown common sense, allowing citizens to find a remedy when a federal cop violates their rights. Still, the weight of the law favors the feds.

Bizarre rulings in the Fifth and Eighth Circuits establish that, unless a federal incident exactly mirrors the 1971 case of Webster Bivensa man who was handcuffed, arrested, and later strip-searched by federal agents after a warrantless search of his homepeople whose rights are trampled by a federal officer have no remedy available to them.

As a result, the Constitution does not protect from abuse by federal police the millions of citizens residing in Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Minnesota, Iowa, Missouri, Arkansas, North Dakota, South Dakota, and Nebraskaall of whom fall in the districts covered by the Fifth and Eighth Circuits. This split among the courts means that Americans rights now depend on where they happen to live.

Image by DALL-E AI.

How bad is it?

Consider this headline from a June 21, 2022, press release from the Institute for Justice: Supreme Court Ignores Constitutional Violations by Federal Police, Green Lights Absolute Immunity Even in Cases Dealing with Attempted Murder and Well-Documented Lies by Officers

One petition to the Supreme Court sought to overturn a ruling from the Eighth Circuit appellate court granting immunity to a federally deputized St. Paul, Minnesota police officer whose well-documented lies cost Hamdi Mohamud, a teenage Somali refugee, two years of her life. When a rogue federal law enforcement officer lied about and manipulated facts, she was condemned to two years in federal prison: My life was never the same since the time I got arrested. They took my life away.

Kevin Byrd is another person who was entangled with a rogue federal law enforcement officer. He petitioned the Supreme Court, asking it to reverse a Fifth Circuit decision that granted immunity to Ray Lamb, a Department of Homeland Security agent, who tried to shoot and kill Byrd to prevent the latter from asking questions about Lambs son, who was involved in a drunken car crash the night before. Of his experience with Lamb, Byrd said, I thought I was going to lose my life.

This is sobering stuff, especially when juxtaposed with the weaponization of federal agencies. A 2020 report from Open The Books, describes The Militarization of the U.S. Executive Agencies. It explains,

There are 458 Special Office of Inspector General Agents within Health and Human Services (HHS) armed with sophisticated weaponry and trained by military Special Forces contractors. [snip] Why did HHS purchase four million rounds over the last eight years and stockpile five submachine guns? And what about the 800,000 rounds purchased by the Social Security Administration (SSA)?

According to the Heritage Foundation, you can [a]dd the U.S. Department of Education to the list of federal agencies that can invade your home at gunpoint and hold you and your family in custody for hours.

The reason for this warning was because of a bizarre 2011 incident in California. Federal education agents busted down the front door of his Stockton, California, home for a paramilitary-style raid because his estranged wife, who didnt live with him, allegedly misused federal aid for students. Wrights three children3, 9, and 11were at home and sequestered in a patrol car for two hours, while Wright was in custody for six hours.

Said a neighbor, They all had guns. They dragged him out in his boxer shorts, threw him to the ground and handcuffed him.

Qualified immunity also makes it difficult to win civil damages against local and state police for misconduct, a right Americans first gained in 1871. That year, Congress passed a law allowing lawsuits against state and local authorities who refused to protect African Americans from terrifying lynchings. In 1967, the Supreme Court limited that right by invoking this so-called qualified immunity doctrine that now makes it very difficult to win civil damages against local and state police. For example, one of the requirements to win damages against a police officer for unlawful conduct, including the use of excessive or deadly force, is that the case must be factually almost identical to a previous one where the police were found guilty (the clearly established law threshold).

How far will the courts go to avoid convicting a police officer? Very far.

In 2014, Nashville police officers released a police dog on a suspect after he had surrendered and was sitting with his hands raised. The man sued for damages to compensate for his multiple injuries. To satisfy the clearly established law requirement, he relied on a previous decision holding that officers had violated a persons rights when they released a police dog on a man who had surrendered by lying down.

Now, to any normal person, the case would be a slam dunk. But thats not how things turned out. Instead, the court held that, in the cited case of clearly established law, the victim was in a prone position when a police dog was sicced on him, but the victim in the challenging case was sitting instead of lying down. Therefore, he was denied compensation!!

In another 2014 case, a court granted qualified immunity to an officer who used a takedown maneuver against a small woman who was trying to assist her daughter, who was fighting with a third party. The officer slammed the woman to the ground, breaking her collarbone and rendering her unconscious. The court noted that, while past cases were similar, there was no precise set of circumstances where a deputy use[d] a takedown maneuver to arrest a suspect who ignored the deputys instruction to get back here.

When the woman sued to hold the officer accountable for blatant excessive force, the court granted qualified immunity to the officer, and the badly injured woman was left without means of redress.

It is certainly true that police officers must make difficult, onthespot decisions under conditions of danger and uncertainty. But the fact is that, under a 1989 Supreme Court decision, existing legal standards already exist for determining whether a constitutional violation occurred in the first place already take into account onthespot police decisionmaking. In Graham v. Connor, the Court held that lower courts cannot second guess instantaneous onthespot policing decisions.

Even as police sometimes need to be protected from the public, so too do members of the public need to be protected from police who abuse their authority. Too often, though, the qualified immunity doctrine lets police brutality go unchecked, denying victims their constitutional rights.
We need heroes. We need people to whom we can look up, as examples of, and exemplars for, the virtues of courage and devotion to duty. So urgent is our need that we sometimes create unrealistic myths about them  for example, the one about George Washington and the cherry tree.

It comes as a shock, therefore, when some of our heroes are seen, by some, to have been scoundrels. George Washington is vilified for having owned slaves, despite his courage and heroism. President Kennedy's scandalous infidelities to his wife are a blot on his record, despite his war service. Yes, even some of our war heroes do not escape the judgments of historians.

Marine Corps major Gregory "Pappy" Boyington (19121988) is extolled for the wartime exploits for which he was awarded the Medal of Honor, America's highest military medal. Boyington's first combat encounter with the enemy was as a fighter pilot serving with the famous Flying Tigers over China. He is credited with having shot down two Japanese aircraft there, and with leading other pilots to victories as well. By war's end, he was a top-rated ace.

Alas, Boyington had a problem with alcohol  a big problem, as it turns out. He was sent home from China early by General Claire Chennault, after serious disciplinary infractions, one of which involved some reckless, and presumably drunken, unauthorized aerobatics over a public gathering where China's first lady was present. The potential for catastrophe could not be overlooked, and Boyington's poor judgment could not be excused.

After about a year of "exile" from military duties, Boyington was allowed to return to the Pacific, where he shot down an additional 24 enemy aircraft, putting himself on a par with the famous World War One ace Eddie Rickenbacker. He was the subject of a television series, co-authored his biography, and appeared as himself on the iconic TV "quiz" show, To Tell the Truth.

Boyington ended the war as a captive of the Japanese and returned to the US as a hero. For a time, his alcoholism devastated his life, but he eventually overcame that.

Whereas Boyington's flaws did not discredit him in the public mind, the same cannot be said of Randall "Duke" Cunningham.

Serving as a fighter pilot, Cunningham became the Vietnam War's only Navy ace, shooting down five enemy aircraft. He narrowly avoided death or capture when his aircraft was disabled in combat. His heroism undoubtedly contributed to his winning his election to the United States House of Representatives.

Wretchedly, while in office, Cunningham was convicted of accepting bribes. He spent eight years in federal prison. After he had completed his incarceration, President Trump granted Cunningham a "conditional" pardon, one that did not absolve him of guilt and did not relieve him of financial responsibility, but allowed him in other respects to return to a semblance of civic life, which he found personally valuable.

Cunningham's confession and subsequent apologies reveal him to have fully recognized the horrific nature of his crime. He regretted having earlier denied his guilt, and then having tried to make excuses, but finally, he faced up to the disgrace he had brought upon himself, his family, and others.

These two men, Boyington and Cunningham, are genuine heroes but also deeply flawed human beings. That dichotomy is difficult but necessary to reconcile. In order to fully appreciate it, we must closely examine human nature; ourselves; and yes, holy scripture.

The Bible does not portray its many heroes as perfect people, the only exception being the divine and human Messiah Himself, Jesus. Moses, King David, and all the apostles are shown by scripture to have had serious defects in their character. Each of us, according to scripture, is more inclined to do evil than to do good. That is human nature. With God, however, "all things are possible," even our own redemption as the beloved of God.

We are at a time in our history when we have become desperate for someone to emerge as a heroic national leader. A number of men have presented themselves on the public stage for our scrutiny, most prominent among them being President Trump.

He has no shortage of faults and flaws, any one of which gives his critics, and even his weakest supporters, ample reason to pass him over for less qualified men, and to deprive ourselves of his unique qualities for the job of president.

It is my ardent hope that our next elected leaders will all be perfect men. To elect them, we must first have an electorate of perfect voters. Of course, both are unrealistic. We must instead elect King David. Yes, he was an adulterer, betrayer of his most loyal servant, and murderer  but astonishingly, counterintuitively, he had something worthy in his character, a quality that only God could see.

I do not know who will be our David, but I hope that when God puts him forward for our vote, we will be wise enough to ask for divine guidance, and then to follow it. If not, then our doom as a nation is made certain.

Despite our flaws and failures, America can yet be that "shining city on a hill."

Image: Gage Skidmore via Flickr, CC BY-SA 2.0.
Ponzi Scheme is a term that was coined about 100 years ago. It was named after an Italian immigrant, Charles Ponzi, who realized he could get investors by promising large returns for undefined, high-yield investments. His endeavor needed to make just enough money to keep attracting new investors, whose money, after Ponzis cut, was used to pay some of the earlier investors. In our modern day, Bernie Madoffs Ponzi scheme resulted in losses in the billions of dollars when the stock market tanked during the Great Recession.

Selling the Deal

Americans are just beginning to see the tip of the iceberg of their own trillion-dollar Ponzi scheme, Social Security (SSA). Signed into law in 1935 by FDR during the heart of the Great Depression, workers were told that Social Security was intended to provide a safety net parallel to retirement systems that existed in Europe. The retirement age was set at 65. Americans were required to pay into the fund through payroll deductions their employers collected. Most Americans were covered by the system, and it was later expanded to cover household workers and others who were excluded initially. The system is structured to be a regressive income tax covering most workers wages up to $160,200 per year, with no limit on the parallel Medicare withholding.

When FDR was garnering praise for helping the working class, the average life expectancy in the United States was only 60.7 years. So, while most workers would pay into the system, few would live long enough to collect benefits.

In contrast, by 2020, the average American life expectancy had surged to 78.81 years. This is just one of the problems with the SSAs structure that has brought America to the current financial cliff. Obviously, if most of the alleged beneficiaries would not live long enough to collect, it was a near-perfect scheme for its operator. The baby boomer generation, by expanding the systems benefits and living longer, is tanking the system.

Image: The SECs illustration of a Ponzi scheme. Public domain.

Private Sector Comparison

In the mid-1960s, Studebaker, a manufacturer that progressed from covered wagons to automobiles, filed for bankruptcy. It turned out that Studebaker had borrowed from its employee pension funds as its finances were declining, making the company IOUs in the pension fund worthless and the fund significantly underfunded. The unionized workers outcry reached Congress. Congress rushed a law requiring employer pension funds to be actuarially determined so that the promised pension benefits would be there at retirement. It also required that these monies be set aside in special accounts exclusively for the workers benefit. Rushed might be a bit of an exaggeration. It wasnt until 1974, a decade after Studebakers bankruptcy, that Congress passed the Employee Retirement and Income Security Act (ERISA), a law that basically said an employer shall not steal from its employee pension funds.

The Financial Cliff

Under ERISA, Congress mandated that, if a private employer promised a pension, the benefit had to be there when the employee qualified for the payments. However, Congress did not designate the same protection for the largest employee benefit program in American history. Due initially to the limited American life span in the early days of the program, SSA ran at a surplus. Post-WWII, the baby boomers surged into the workforce, and SSA collected more money than needed to pay current benefits.

Then, around 2011, the first boomers hit 65. There is no magic to this formula. Just a decade later, the Social Security Trust Fund is already a patient on life support, and the end is around the corner in 2033. Available to all is the Congressional Budget Offices 2022 Long-Term Projections for the Social Security. The shortfall is in the trillions of dollars beyond that date with no turnaround in place. In fact, attentive Americans of all ages should have noted that, during the current National Debt Limit debate, if the government did not raise the limit by June 5, SSA payments would have been stopped.

There was more than a big demand, though, to account for the shortfall when the Boomers aged into the SSA program. The surplus funds were used to buy US Government securities, which until recently, have been at historically low rates since the Great Recession. So, just as Studebaker did, the United States used the SSA funds to finance itself.

Prior fixes in 1983 included taxing SSA benefits at 50% for persons earning at least $25,000 per year and gradually increasing the normal retirement age from 65 to 67. A decade later, SSA benefits were taxed at 85% after earning $34,000 per year. The maximum benefit for someone retiring in 2023 at age 70 is currently capped at $4,555 per month.

None of this explains a near-total lack of attention from Congress. In fact, the SSA increased the monthly benefit by 8.7% effective January 2023. The SSA was able to do this without congressional approval. This hardly indicates a recognition of the cliff ahead.

Action Plan

While cutting benefits and/or increasing the SSA withholding would have some significant blowback on the politicians who implement these measures, it is hard to imagine other functional fixes. Recently, it has been suggested that normal retirement age be increased to 70 from 67.

A more creative solution was proposed by a commission established by President George W. Bush in 2001. The commission recommended that younger workers be allowed to direct some of their SSA payments into a conservative mix of stocks and bonds. However, even during Bushs most popular period, that did not pass. Following his reelection in 2004, he tried again, but his political support evaporated under the negative publicity following the bungled response to Hurricane Katrina. Early in his administration, President Barack Obama also raised the issue of preserving SSA, but that went nowhere.

The importance of SSA retirement benefits cannot be overemphasized. A recent report by the SSA indicated that 90% of people 65 and older were receiving SSA benefits, representing about 30% of the income for this age group. There is no solution to this problem without pain. One thing is certain: The longer Congress waits to fix it, the more painful the solution.

Wrap

Typical of all Ponzi schemes, the operator never really intended to pay the majority of those who paid into the system. Many early SSA recipients, in the years from 1940-2020, were able to benefit from payments by later contributors. Now that the addition of new workers has faded relative to those attempting to draw from the system, the later contributors face getting far less than they should receive, assuming SSA survives at all.
The Supreme Court handed down three major decisions this week, limiting an executive order that fabricated presidential authorization to forgive billions of dollars in school loans; denying governmental authority to compel people to create works that violate their free speech and freedom of religion; and prohibiting schools from considering the race of applicants in admissions in public and private institutions.

There are two very good summaries of these three cases, here on AT by Andrea Widburg and in Real Clear Politics by Professor Charles Lipson. Dissents by justices Elena Kagan, Sonia Sotomayor, and Ketanji Brown Jackson, were so badly written and reasoned that some wag said he was inspired to tweet, Having read the dissents, Im even more against affirmative action in judicial selection.*

For most of us these were welcome outcomes, and while Senators Charles Grassley and Mitch McConnell played an important role in keeping Merrick Garland off the court and allowing President Trump to get three justices confirmed, the main honor goes to him.

As Mike Davis reminds us:

Trumps flawless Gorsuch nomination and confirmation united weak and wobbly Senate Republicans to run over the Democrats filibuster and lower the vote threshold from 60 to 51. This comforted Kennedy enough to retire, so Trump could replace Kennedy with his protege -- and still keep weak and wobbly Senate Republicans onboard. (Theres no chance another Alito or Thomas could have been confirmed in 2018, with Collins, Murkowski, Flake, and others being so weak and wobbly.) If Kavanaughs nomination failed, Republicans wouldve lost the Senate in 2018 and the Court after 2020. Trump never blinked, even when almost every Senate Republican did. Instead, we pulled the rabbit out of the hat. And knocked out 4 Senate Democrat incumbents and picked up 2 seats (when Republicans lost the House). This paved the way for Trumps replacement of Ginsburg with Barrett. First constitutionalist Supreme Court majority in 90 years. I can think of no other Republican -- besides Trump -- who had the political skills, force of personality, and backbone to pull this off. When anyone claims any other Republican president could do this or do this better, they clearly do not understand how the process actually works. And they would have clearly failed.

No rational person could find fault with the Courts ruling on loan forgiveness. As the Court noted, even Speaker Nancy Pelosi said the president lacked authority to do this. It seems quite obvious that Biden chose to do so anyway for political advantage, inducing those looking for a way out of their obligations to vote for his party, knowing that it would be some time before the matter could wind its way through the courts and be undone. Speaking of the Heroes legislation which was the purported authority for Bidens action, Chief Justice John Roberts wrote, The Secretarys plan has modified the cited provisions only in the same sense that the French Revolution modified the status of the French nobility -- it has abolished them and supplanted them with a new regime entirely. The Babylon Bee had fun at the expense of the Administrations failed sleight of hand. The very notion that people who did not go to college or did go and paid off their loans should pay higher taxes to forgive loans even of couples earning up to $250,000 a year rankles almost everyone.

Nor, outside of Colorado and the Tenth Circuit, could you find many people who think you can, consistent with the Constitution, compel someone to produce a work which promoted something which violated their beliefs. It would be hard to imagine anyone suing or prosecuting Moslem bakers or website developers, for example, who refused to bake a cake or produce a website attacking Mohammed. Weve had it with persecuting Christians and Jews for their beliefs.

The decisions which drew the most heat were in Students for Fair Admissions, Inc. v. President and Fellows of Harvard College, and Students for Fair Admissions, Inc. v. University of North Carolina, which banned race-based academic admissions. Justice Sotomayor was so moved as to directly urge colleges to use race in admissions in whichever way they can: We shall overcome, she said in her dissent. The University of North Carolina pledged to follow the Court ruling; Harvard was moderately defiant. Picking up on the means to continue to weigh race that Roberts left them, indicating theyd find a way to consider race, stating: The court ruled that colleges and universities may consider in admissions decisions an applicants discussion of how race affected his or her life, be it through discrimination, inspiration, or otherwise. We will certainly comply with the courts decision.

As Professor Lipson (cited above) describes the history of affirmative action and the court, this decision was long in the making and more than warranted not only by the Constitution but as well by changing circumstances. It wasnt until the mid-1960s that legal discrimination was outlawed and universities wanted to help African American students get a leg up even when they did not meet the normal admission standards. They began with admission quotas, which were ruled illegal, and then moved to affirmative-action policies. He contends the court permitted this as a pragmatic step, believing that it was necessary to help overcome these students historical burdens. But the courts wanted to permit only modest advantages and many judges and Americans expected these advantages -- which clearly were unconstitutional -- would fade in time.

He imagines that the universities will do whatever they can to evade the new ruling. As others also have noted, many of them have eliminated standardized admission tests -- because when they use them, the extent of the discrimination is more easily apparent; indeed, they provide damning statistical evidence the schools admission policies still discriminate illegally. Countermeasures to maintain statistical evidence of compliance are available, of course; governments (most easily state legislatures in red states) could predicate receipt of state funds on standardized test scores by applicants. Schools can still choose how much weight to give them, but there will at least by an objective way to monitor admissions decisions.

Melissa Korn at the Wall Street Journal has thoroughly researched efforts to maintain racially diverse campuses in schools banned from considering race, and the history of such efforts indicates no reason to be optimistic about any alternatives succeeding in maintaining the level of minority applicants affirmative action policies did. When California banned race-based admissions at the University of California, despite a bevy of recruiting and admissions initiatives the share of Black and Hispanic students dropped substantially. And, no, race and socioeconomic status are not co-extensive, so looking at household income wont achieve that goal. There are more low-income white households than there are low-income Black and Hispanic households combined.

Socioeconomic status turns out to be a weak proxy for race. In the U.S. the median income for non-Hispanic white households -- $78,000 -- was about one-third higher than it was for Hispanic households in 2021, and the gap was even larger in Black families. Yet there were more than three times as many white households earning under $50,000 in 2021 as there were black or Hispanic households with similar earnings, census data show. Some states have tried to simply admit the top graduates from every high school, but that isnt sure fire either. It works only if the schools are dominated" by Black or Hispanic students, diverse high schools dont move the needle much. And then there are financial constraints. Only richer schools can afford extensive financial-aid budgets, and, then theres school size. The most highly sought schools tend to be small. Can schools get around all this and increase minority enrollment by favoring first-generation college students who grew up speaking Spanish in one-parent households or setting different income thresholds for certain groups of students. Probably not, according to law professor Gail Heriot, a member of the U.S. Commission on Civil Rights. Despite having spent hundreds of millions expanding the pipeline of minority students the University of California has not been able to increase Black and Hispanic Admissions. Black students were 5% of the 2021 high school graduating class, 2% of the first year students at Berkeley and 2.4% of the first year students systemwide [throughout the Universitys 10 campuses]. Florida, too, eliminated race-based affirmative action, guaranteeing admission to its university system to the top 20% of public high school graduates, but has only been moderately successful in boosting minority enrollment, In 2022 the flagship University of Florida only 5.5% of its students were Black, far below the share of the states Black high school graduates. Texas and Michigan which also banned race-based admissions have had similar results.

Maybe its time to give up the notion that universities exist to refashion society, and consider that all the money and effort that goes into maintaining schools of higher education is better spent on educating those people with the aptitude and interest in mastering higher-level education whatever their race or ethnicity. Just a thought.

Correction: An earlier version of this piece incorrectly identified Ilya Somin as the author of the tweet.
Growing up, I religiously read Dear Abby and Dear Ann, enjoying both the wisdom they dispensed and the foibles they exposed. After they died, I stopped reading advice columns. Im beginning to think, though, that I might better understand America in 2023 if I pick them up again. Thats because of a letter to the Chicago Tribunes Ask Amy column in which a woman complains that her brother, the cheapskate, failed to send a wedding gift to the womans daughter. Its only when you read why he didnt send a gift that you get a sense of the immensity of that womans (and Americas) problems.

The letter opens with Angry in Philadelphia explaining that, at her daughters request, Angry explicitly disinvited Dave, Angrys brother, from the daughters wedding. The daughter explained that his attendance would make her feel unsafe. At this point, Im expecting to read a letter about how Dave, when liquored up, attacks party guests with steak knives or assaults women in unisex bathrooms.

How wrong I was. The problem is that Angrys daughter is very politically progressive. Even though the daughter has always had a good relationship with Dave, he is a conservative voter and has supported candidates we all abhor.

Although Angry professes that my daughters request surprised me, she immediately accepts her daughters marching orders. Angry proudly explains that she wrote Dave a very nice note telling him we would not be comfortable with him at the wedding. I dont know about you, but Im not really sure how you can ever say nicely that someones very presence makes you uncomfortable. Once youre saying that, pretty much by definition, youre not being very nice anymore.

Image: Leftist Bridezilla using Pixlr AI

Despite being offended by Daves existence and casting him from her sight, Angrys not a mean person. Instead, she sent him pictures of the wedding, all in an effort to make him feel like he was not being totally left out. To Angrys shocked dismay, I have not heard from Dave since then. I feel Angrys pain. She disavowed and humiliated Dave from a place of moral goodness. In the spirit of every parent punishing a naughty child, what she did hurt her more than it did him.

But Daves rude silence after being honorably and morally chastised isnt Angrys problem. The problem is that Dave is a cheapskate:

Another problem is that Dave has not sent my daughter and son-in-law a wedding gift. In the past, Dave has given family members wedding checks in excess of $1,000. She says she was counting on receiving the same type of gift. [snip] How can I get my brother to recognize and change his petty behavior? Please dont tell me that Im the one who started this by not inviting my brother to the wedding. After all, hes a grown man, while my daughter is young and just starting out.

Have you ever read a more perfect distillation of American leftism? You get up on your high moral horse and tell someone that he is a disgraceful human being with whom nobody should associate. But then, good leftist that you are, you add, Give me your money for the benefit of ideas and people you find repugnant. And if the pariah from whom you demand money refuses, rather than examining your position, you castigate the person as petty and cheap.

Put in more political terms, on the one hand, you see the Democrat establishment that controls all of our institutions and views ordinary Americans as deplorables, racists, transphobes, and bitter clingers. And on the other hand, you see the mass of American voters who are forced, quite literally at IRS gunpoint, to turn over their money to those who hate them and their values.

Dear Amy responded credibly to Angrys letter. After first taking some swipes at the tacky behavior Angry and her daughter showed in exercising their prerogative to exclude someone from a wedding, Amy tackles the real sin:

[I]ts your second problem which I believe will enter the Bridezilla Hall of Infamy. In short: Brides who are too afraid of family members to invite them to a family wedding dont then get the pleasure of receiving their money. You seem almost as afraid of your daughter as she is of your brother, but I hope youll find a way to courageously tell her that the Bank of Uncle Dave is closed, at least to your branch of the family. So far, your silent brother is the only family member who is behaving appropriately. Hes steering clear, which is exactly what you have asked him to do.

Again, the same could be said to Americas leftist establishment. You despise and fear ordinary Americans, so you should not get the pleasure of receiving their money. Your behavior is inappropriate, to say the least, and tremendously damaging to the American family.
Slipped out under the radar ahead of a long Fourth of July weekend on a Friday night, the State Department's report on the U.S. pullout on Afghanistan in 2021 is out, and it's a beaut.

According to CBS:

Washington  The State Department released on Friday an unclassified version of its Afghanistan "After Action Review" report, which faulted both the Trump and Biden administrations for "insufficient" planning and said a lack of clear communication and decision-making "added significantly" to the challenges U.S. personnel faced during the frenzied, and ultimately deadly, military withdrawal and evacuation from Kabul in 2021. Commissioned by Secretary of State Antony Blinken, the review was completed last year and follows an earlier White House report that was released in April. A Pentagon review remains classified.

Which is kind of ridiculous to blame on President Trump. After all, since when has Joe Biden ever followed through on a Trump plan of action? Just ask the folks at the border who know all about those Biden recissions of Trump's executive orders. The bi-partisan assessment of blame was intended to put on a fig leaf of 'even-handedness.'

But the specifics of the blame on the Biden side of things is where all the 'damning' information is:

According to CNN:

The State Departments report contains much sharper criticism around the Biden administrations actions than the White House summary document released in April. That document blamed the Trump administrations decisions for creating the conditions that led to the chaos of the evacuation, and did not overtly admit any mistakes. The report noted that when the Trump administration left office, key questions remained unanswered about how the United States would meet the May 2021 deadline for a full military withdrawal, how the United States could maintain a diplomatic presence in Kabul after that withdrawal, and what might happen to those eligible for the Special Immigrant Visa (SIV) program as well as other at-risk Afghans. Once Biden decided in April 2021 to proceed with full withdrawal, with a new deadline of September 11, 2021, the subsequent speed of the US militarys retrograde from Afghanistan compounded the difficulties the Department faced in mitigating the loss of the militarys key enablers, it stated. Critically, the decision to hand over Bagram Air Base to the Afghan government meant that Hamid Karzai International Airport (HKIA) would be the only avenue for a possible noncombatant evacuation operation (NEO), the report stated.

Shifting orders and a ridiculous belief that the Taliban would never create a worst-case scenario as happened, along with nobody in charge made the disastrous pullout a living reality:

U.S. military planning for a possible NEO had been underway with post for some time, but the Departments participation in the NEO planning process was hindered by the fact that it was unclear who in the Department had the lead, the review found.

..and this...

According to the review, crisis preparation and planning were inhibited to a degree by concerns about the signals that might be sent, especially anything that might suggest the United States had lost confidence in the Afghan government and thus contribute to its collapse, which it did in mid-August 2021. Although the State Department established an Afghanistan Coordination Task Force, it failed to establish a broader task force as the situation in Afghanistan deteriorated in late July and early August 2021. Naming a 7th Floor principal to oversee all elements of the crisis response would have improved coordination across different lines of effort, the report stated, referencing the floor of the State Department where senior officials offices are located.

As usual, the Biden administration was concerned about 'optics' - to the very point of putting American lives at danger, leaving some ten thousand allies behind, flying in more than ten thousand Afghani illegals with no right to be here, and ruining American prestige abroad as China cleaned up in Iraq on its oil, and Russia launched plans to invade Ukraine. Note the Jimmy Carteresque reasoning on failing to make plans because they didn't want to send any signals suggesting that they could imagine any problems post-pullout ... so, they didn't plan for any problems, either.

These things are on Biden, and the complete failure to plan for problems during the pullout. Biden further completed the public-relations focus on the disaster by hiding from the public at Camp David while the disaster was unfolding, while Secretary of State Antony Blinken had more important business to take care of in the Hamptons as U.S. troops were losing their lives to a suicide bomber and American standing abroad was crashing and burning.

Asked what took them so long to get this report out, CNN noted these responses from the Biden administration:

A senior State Department official did not explain why it had taken so long for the report to be published, nor why it was released before a holiday weekend, saying they would not discuss questions related to process. Asked about the report on Friday and whether he admitted there were mistakes during the withdrawal, Biden noted that he had vowed that al Qaeda wouldnt be there. I said wed get help from the Taliban, the president said in response to the shouted question after remarks at the White House. I was right. A US intelligence assessment last August found that al Qaeda had not reconstituted in Afghanistan following the US withdrawal.

A senior official suddenly being concerned about process issues, when obviously, the delay was to keep the residue of this bad news from reaching Joe Biden's poll numbers? Once again, the old public relations priority seems paramount.

And Biden himself's response was little more than a yawp, taking credit for al-Qaida not being there in Afghanistan in any powerful capacity, when the fact is, the bad guys have moved onto other groups -- such as ISIS, or the great migrant armies now wreaking mass havoc in France, and now Belgium and Switzerland, according to reports. Who needs al-Qaida when you can go burn libraries and release zoo animals with the migrant mobs in Paris?

In short, there was no appetite among the Bidenites for taking any responsibility, and thus far, nobody fired for incompetence either.

That of course, would lead straight to Joe Biden himself, and we already know he never takes responsibility.

It's ugly stuff, and no surprise that they tried to hide it. The report, available here, is the unclassified 25-page mini-version, with 60 pages redacted. Who knows how bad those missing 60 pages must read if all we are getting is the sanitized version?

Image: Screen shot from NBC News video, via YouTube
The Russia-Ukraine war has not only engendered large-scale destruction within Ukraine but rippling effects throughout the world, leading to a complex net of international relations and alliances.

India, with its historical-traditional ties with Russia and its growing partnership with America, finds itself walking a tightrope as it interacts simultaneously with both major powers during the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Unfortunately it is still yearning to discharge its due role to reduce tensions between the two belligerents.

In fact, New Delhi has long maintained strong and multi-faceted relations with the erstwhile USSR, which disintegrated more than 30 years ago and was then succeeded by the present Russia.

The partnership between the two countries spans many decades dating from the end of World War II and that encompasses various areas such as defense, cultural exchanges, energy and more. Indeed Russia continues to be a significant supplier of military hardware to India even today and both nations continue to cooperate on numerous global issues, including counter-terrorism and regional stability.

However, the conflict in Ukraine has obviously strained India's traditional relations with Russia as New Delhi maintains silence over the U.S.-led massive logistical support from the West to Ukraine. That support continues to sustain this war, on the one hand, and accrues immense benefits to America and other western states from sale of arms and ammunition to Ukraine, on the other.

Thus India has meticulously chosen a prudent stand, neither openly condemning nor fully endorsing Russia's actions in Ukraine. Indeed, India, known for its adherence to non-alignment and non-interference in the internal affairs of other countries, has had to move carefully when it comes to supporting Russian actions. While reiterating its support for Ukraine's territorial integrity, India has underscored the importance of all concerned parties to engage in peaceful and constructive dialogue so as to find a solution that respects sovereignty and upholds international law and other customary international and global norms.

Obviously, this balanced stand is aimed at avoiding alienation of Russia while maintaining India's commitment to global peace and security and overall progress and prosperity of the entire world in the true spirit of vasudhaiv kutumbkam.

Although it highlights India's insistence on diplomatic solutions rather than endorsing or participating in any military actions, it also puts the country into poor light as it appears to be just waiting for an approaching global crisis to possibly lead to a man-made catastrophe.

Indeed India's historical ties with Russia play a role in shaping its approach, as it seeks to maintain a strong relationship, besides adhering to its principles of non-interference.

Of late, the United States has emerged as one of India's key partners, particularly in the defense sector. The recent jet engine deal between the two leading democracies marks a crucial milestone in this area of cooperation. These apart, both nations have deepened their strategic cooperation in diverse areas such as nuclear energy, trade, science and transfer of technology. And that has consistently been evolving since the past decade.

Further, their bilateral ties have got additional impetus during the recently concluded visit to the U.S. by the Indian PM Narendra Modi wherein both leaders -- President Biden and PM Modi -- have reaffirmed to further expand their mutual cooperation in the defense sector while expressing concerns over rising autocratic tendencies in the world. And that has assumed considerable significance during the current tensions in Ukraine as there appears to have emerged the Beijing-Pyongyang-Teheran axis with a view to support Russian offensives over Ukraine. Indeed, this axis stands to oppose the U.S.-led NATO powers increasing support to Ukraine.

Indeed the United States has taken a strong stand over Russian actions against Ukraine during this conflict that witnesses harsh sanctions and alienation of Moscow from the global mainstream. Against this backdrop while India has not overtly taken sides towards the U.S., its expanding mutual ties have compelled it to adopt a more nuanced position. Though India has expressed deep concerns over Russia's aggressions against Ukraine, it has deliberately avoided open criticism of Russia.

Thus India continues to uphold its evergreen policy of non-alignment by carrying ahead its mutual ties with both Russia and the U.S. to protect its national interests. Indeed, India values its ability to make independent decisions by pursuing its policy of strategic autonomy based on its national interests along with forging cordial relations with all nations in the international community.

In this scenario, India's approach to the war in Ukraine underscores its commitment to maintain a delicate balance between its relations with Russia and the United States. In fact, India has always laid stress over the need for peaceful dialogues and diplomacy, while expressing concerns over Russia's violent actions and also ignoring the US led NATO powers continuing support to Ukraine.

Nevertheless India must go ahead from just verbal rhetoric and work hard to accomplish immediate cessation of hostilities between Russia and Ukraine which has already taken huge toll of precious human lives and property of both the belligerents. That India can do as it continues to enjoy significant clout and influence around the world through its staunch support of global peace and security as well as the welfare of humanity, and its status as the progenitor of the doctrine of the Nonalignment and the founding of the Non-Alligned Movement (NAM) is operative here. India's magnanimity to other countries during the COVID-19 pandemic was acknowledged by the international community, including WHO. Hence, India must mobilize support from the like-minded countries such as Australia, Canada, Japan, South Korea and more in the world, given its peaceful and spiritual-moral position as Spiritual Guru in the world. This India can do as nothing is beyond human endeavor.

Sudhanshu Tripathi is a professor at MDPG College in Pratapgarh, in the state of Uttar Pradesh, in India.
Joe "Top Gun" Biden is sure fond of talking about fighter aircraft when he's on the subject of gun control. He did it again at a recent fundraiser in California:

You know, I love these guys who say the Second Amendment is  you know, the tree of liberty is watered with the blood of patriots. Well, if [you] want to do that, you want to work against the government, you need an F-16. You need something else than just an AR-15.

That wasn't his first time referencing U.S. military hardware when talking about civilian gun control. He has talked about fighter aircraft and even nuclear weapons in the past when arguing for the need to "do something"  the "something" being the disarming of law-abiding Americans. His reference to the use of military force in response to civilian resistance is a recurring theme.

As with much of what Joe says, I was left wondering what point he was trying to make  and not just because of his attempt to sound less coherent than "Cackles" Harris. Is his fixation on the guns he controls versus the guns we control, an observation, a threat, or a Supreme Court argument?

Regardless, I'm no military expert, but I know that 100 million Americans, with over 300 million firearms, would be considerably more formidable than the lightly armed, poorly trained force of 80,000 men that Biden surrendered to in 2021. And the Taliban didn't have a single F-16.

Assuming Joe doesn't remember his surrender (after all, it was over two years ago), it's possible that the statement was his attempt at a simple observation. But it seemed considerably more menacing than that, no?

Biden's F-16 statement sounded a lot like an endorsement of "might makes right"  that he who has the biggest gun gets to make the rules. Why else would Joe be telling us that he has the biggest guns on the planet?

And what sort of "work against the government" might President "Return to Normalcy" be referring to? What sort of resistance does he think would warrant an F-16 attack?

Protesting an election?

Singing hymns outside an abortion facility?

Flying a Gadsden flag?

Promoting an Article V convention to fight government corruption?

Voting against his party  the party of government?

"Working against the government" could mean a lot of things, most of which, Joe probably doesn't realize, are protected by the Constitution  including our right to bear arms.

Or did Joe Biden provide us with an astute Supreme Court argument? Thomas Jefferson wrote:

What country can preserve its liberties if their rulers are not warned from time to time that their people preserve the spirit of resistance. Let them take arms.

Our founders articulated our right to bear arms as a deterrent to America devolving into tyranny. It was one of their famous checks and balances. They understood that an armed citizenry is and empowered citizenry.

But now our own president is telling us that our military can crush "working against the government," and he is willing to give that order.

To summarize, our founders gave us the Second Amendment as a check against government tyranny. We now find ourselves with a chief executive boasting that the Second Amendment is impotent against the military power he commands, and he's willing to use that military against civilian resistance. That doesn't sound like an argument that we should give up our rifles. It sounds more like a good Supreme Court brief that the population needs access to better weapons.

Our founders understood that all governments tend toward tyranny over time. Noah Webster described how an armed citizenry would set America apart from other experiments in self-governance that have failed.

Before a standing army can rule, the people must be disarmed; as they are in almost every kingdom of Europe. The supreme power in America cannot enforce unjust laws by the sword; because the whole body of the people are armed, and constitute a force superior to any band of regular troops that can be, on any pretense, raised in the United States.

Our right to bear arms was included in the Constitution to prevent government officials from behaving like...well, Joe Biden  threatening his own people with the military, should they resist a government that is no longer "of the people, for the people and by the people."

But surely, America could never devolve into tyranny  could it? We're different, aren't we? After all, Joe Biden promised a return of dignity and normalcy to the Oval Office. He assured us that he would faithfully serve all Americans  even the semi-fascist MAGA extremists. He followed that assurance with a threat that resistance is futile and asserted that he has the military power to impose his will  in the process showing little concern for our rights, which he is sworn to protect. That is what emerging tyranny looks like.

Joe Biden unwittingly provided a convincing argument that we would be fools to ever allow ourselves to be disarmed.

John Green is a political refugee from Minnesota, now residing in Idaho. He has written for American Thinker, and American Free News Network. He can be reached at greenjeg@gmail.com.

Image: Gage Skidmore via Flickr, CC BY-SA 2.0.
Does anyone doubt that The New York Times not only is virulently anti-Trump (in the manner of a William Barr or a Paul Ryan), but is committed to effacing embarrassing references to Democrats convicted of deplorable criminal conduct? The following should remove all doubts that the Times is in the tank for the Democrat.

Here are the lede paragraphs from a June 29 AP story by Mike Catalini on the sentence given a New Jersey politico for arranging the murder of "a colleague."

"NEWARK, N.J. (AP)  A New Jersey political consultant who had two hitmen kill a colleague for $15,000 was sentenced to 24 years in federal prison on Thursday. "Sean Caddle, a 45-year-old former Democratic campaign consultant, pleaded guilty to conspiring to commit murder-for-hire in the killing of Michael Galdieri, whose apartment was set on fire after he was fatally stabbed in 2014."

Note the words "former Democratic campaign consultant" describing the defendant, Sean Caddle.

Now, here is the link to the story as it appeared in The New York Times, June 30:

This report, by Tracey Tully and Ed Shanahan, refers to Caddle, in the text, as "a New Jersey political consultant." The term "Democrat" is nowhere to be found -- other than in the third paragraph from the end, in reference to a Jersey pol way off on a tangent to Caddle: "Nick Scutari, a Democrat and president of the State Senate" whose chief of staff Antonio Teixiera was said to have conspired with Caddle and pleaded guilty to fraud and tax evasion charges.

One wonders -- in vain -- if the reader should accept this reference to Caddle -- "as an up-from-the-streets operative" -- as another way of saying "Democrat?"

In addition to the Jersey felon's name -- Sean M. Caddle -- the Times story has 20 mentions of "Mr. Caddle" without the partisan label, "Democrat" attached. (One mention of "Mr. Caddle," was followed by: "a father of four young children....")

Can anyone believe that had a Republican been the subject of story about a 24-year sentence handed down to a defendant who pleaded guilty to hiring hitmen to kill an "associate," that party label would not have appeared in the headline and throughout the report? Of course not.

And so -- behold The New York Times, covering up for the Democrats, from the White House to the seamy side of terrible criminality in state politics.
Lets put first things first. I write as someone who joined the march from Selma to Montgomery, Alabama, in 1965 and who in 1975 and 1978 successfully advocated the resettlement in the United States of several hundred thousand refugees from Vietnam, Laos, and the Killing Fields of Cambodia.

As the tide of well-intentioned opinion sweeps ever forward demanding a massive transfer of money from non-African Americans to African Americans descended from the slaves living in the defeated Confederacy (the Movement for Reparations), it boggles my mind that no one has remembered that on March 4, 1865 Abraham Lincoln addressed the reparations issue.

In his Second Inaugural Address, Lincoln confirmed that reparations for slavery had been paid -- in blood.

Lincoln said: Yet, if God wills that [the war] continue until all the wealth piled by the bondsman's two hundred and fifty years of unrequited toil shall be sunk and until every drop of blood drawn with the lash shall be paid by another drawn with the sword as was said three thousand years ago so still it must be said 'the judgments of the Lord are true and righteous altogether.'

On this July 2nd, the 160th anniversary of the Battle of Gettysburg, we remember with gratitude the young White men of the 1st Minnesota Regiment who took 82% casualties to stop a charge by Wilcoxs brigade comprising the 3rd Alabama, 1st Mississippi, and 1st Virginia infantry regiments, and so save the battle for the Union. As Lincoln asked, we should also never forget the loss in that civil war of more than 360,000 Union volunteers and draftees, almost all of them White. They volunteered and fought that the slaves would be freed, which happened thanks to their sacrifice.

Their deaths do not include the additional suffering of the wounded nor the sufferings of the widows and children of the dead, also real costs paid that the slaves might be free.

In a similar fashion but from a different moral framework, White Southerners also paid in blood for their slave system. Of the Confederate armies, over 258,000 died.

In her proposed Federal legislation of last May to provide reparations, Missouri Representative Cory Bush argued without any mention of Lincolns calculation of the cost paid to end slavery:

I am one of the 40 million people in this country descended from enslaved Africans. Our ancestors were torn away from their homes and families, enslaved, and forced to fuel this countrys economy since the day it was founded. And then they were left landless, impoverished, and disenfranchised Black people continue to bear the harms of slavery and its vestiges, through the Black-white wealth gap, segregation and redlining, disparities in health outcomes, a racist and destructive criminal legal system, and countless other ways. Yet our federal government refuses to acknowledge the lasting harms of slavery and the unjust world it created for Black people. We know this injustice because we experience it every day. This resolution will move us closer to a federal government that acknowledges its responsibility for this injustice and enacts a holistic and comprehensive reparations package that begins to address the harm it has caused, the wealth it has extracted, and the lives it has stolen.

Some say that in the United States we should put a dollar amount of $10 million on each life, the amount society pays to insure our continued good health.

If we use that $10 million as the current value of a lost human life, then the value paid in the loss of their sons by supporters of the Union during the Civil War -- a war fought to help African Americans -- was, in current dollars, $3.6 trillion.

Image: Public Domain
Victor Davis Hanson provides a thorough summary of the events and developments of the past decade and more at the hands of Marxist socialist radicalized Democrat party. It is sobering for sure.

The hint of what was to come was seen in the campus radical and fanatic elements that rose during the '60s as an outgrowth of the antiwar movement, which created a campus radical wing, presaging other riotous elements that developed during the Obama years and after  BLM, Antifa, Occupy Wall Street, successors to movements of the '60s. They are characterized by Hanson this way:

Democrats have transmogrified into a Soviet-style socialist binary of rich and poor, run by an elite nomenklatura that dictates its orders to its foot soldiers of the underclass. An entire new left-wing vocabulary  clingers, deplorables, irredeemables, dregs, chumps, ultra-MAGA, semi-fascists  has come to express their hatred of the middle class.

The essay runs down all the important policy positions (or revolutionary commitments) of the left

Control the courts and use them to solidify a political agenda intimidate opposition judges and threaten to pack the Supreme Court.

Turn the concept of free speech on its head with censorship and speech codes, expansion of persecution of free speech, and Orwellian misuse of "misinformation" and "hate speech."

Hijack and intimidate corporate America, and infiltrate it with college business graduates steeped in leftist ideology. An alliance has developed between socialists and plutocrats at the expense of the middle class. Plutocrat money is funding leftist causes.

Race and sexual lifestyle with a newly defined concept of oppression have ruined the rule of law and created chaos and havoc and institutional destruction, civil and familial.

Tribalism and grievance are energizing forces against the American model of civility and comity.

Law enforcement and courts have been politically weaponized by the left for partisan purposes and to destroy or disable political opponents.

Executive agencies are weaponized to impose the leftist globalist agenda and accelerate the rush to an administrative totalitarian state, bereft of reliable elections and self-governance.

The decline of the Republic is amplified by an open-borders massive-illegal-immigration regime and discarding the concept of citizenship, replaced with just residence.

Dr. Hanson recites the sad story of how easy it was for the left and how much has changed.

The left plays for keeps, and they work their political agenda 24/7. The result is a Jacobin party that destroys its enemies and tears down the society and its institutions.

Hanson details the damage done and the decimation of the Republic.

Cancel culture, doxing, deplatforming, and shadowbanning are all synonyms for left-wing character destruction. Anyone who strays  will be targeted by the woke bureaucracies, libeled in the media, and ostracized by the popular culture. (The message is one of deterrence and intimidation.) Impeachment once, twice, and more still is a good thing. Better still to try a president even as a private citizen. Special counsels are wonderful  all the more so if they have nearly two years and $40 million to hire a dream team of partisan lawyers. A good attorney general is a president's "wingman" who uses the law to go after enemies and exempt friends and families from the law, while using indictments to pave the way for reelection. Lawfare is a legitimate tool of the president, especially when targeting a rival threat to his re-election. High office is a path to riches. Selling your name for tens of millions of dollars is not only legitimate, but a necessary perk of the vice presidency and presidency. The FBI, the Pentagon, the CIA, the Justice Department, and the IRS are underused assets. With the right mindset and willpower, all are vital tools in neutering your political enemies. The media are utterly corrupt. What they cover and what they omit are entirely political decisions and thus can be warped accordingly by government rewards and punishments.

Hanson closes by suggesting the irony: "What the Left now fears most is the revolutionary model it has bequeathed to America  and what might happen if its monstrous creation falls into politically incorrect hands."

Revolutionaries don't think like that, Victor; they are convinced of their righteousness and the goodness of their cause.

John Dale Dunn, M.D., J.D. is a retired emergency physician and inactive attorney in Brownwood, Texas.

Image: kolyaeg via Pixabay, Pixabay License.
Gavin Newsom tried to run away from a questioner pressing him about the young people seeking to de-transition from life-altering medical measures taken when they were children and thought for a moment that they were then the opposite sex. He steadfastly kept walking and refused to answer her inquiries:

Erin Friday tries to get @GavinNewsom to answer why he wants to transition our kids https://t.co/JOv63l5gIR  DetransAwareness (@DetransAware) June 30, 2023

This is not a matter of concern only to Californians. Gavin Newsom, while publicly espousing support for Joe Biden, is obviously campaigning for the Democrats 2024 presidential nomination. His ads attacking Florida and Ron DeSantis make no sense unless he is running for national office on the sensible assumption that the scandal-ridden and dementia-afflicted POTUS will not be on the ticket, and that Biden is merely avoiding lame duck status by pretending that he will run.

But Newsom has a huge problem. He has tied himself to an extreme position on genital mutilation and puberty blockers for underage children who express  at some point in their childhood  a feeling that they are the opposite sex. Tied is if anything an understatement. Arc welded might be more appropriate, for Newsom signed into law a sanctuary state measure that allows out of state children to make irreversible bodily changes that affect their subsequent physical and mental development. From PBSs San Francisco television station KQED:

California Becomes First Sanctuary State for Transgender Youth Seeking Medical Care California is the first state in the nation to create a sanctuary for transgender youth seeking gender-affirming medical care. Gov. Gavin Newsom signed a new law in September that ensures transgender kids from elsewhere can safely access hormones or puberty blockers here. The legislation also shields families from child abuse investigations or from being criminally prosecuted for seeking gender-affirming care. In California we believe in equality and acceptance. We believe that no one should be prosecuted or persecuted for getting the care they need  including gender-affirming care, Newsom said in a signing message. Parents know whats best for their kids, and they should be able to make decisions around the health of their children without fear. We must take a stand for parental choice. (snip)  a new law authored by state Senator Scott Wiener (D-San Francisco) declares that any potential out-of-state arrest warrant for violating laws related to such care will be given the lowest law enforcement priority. We are going to provide them with refuge and we're not going to send them back and we're not going to honor subpoenas, said Sen. Wiener. And our law enforcement is not going to enforce the laws of Texas and Alabama [outlawing gender transition medication and surgery] criminalizing these families.

Note that despite Newsoms words in his signing message that parents know whats best for their kids quoted above, the text of the bill authorizes California courts to override the wishes of out-of-state parents opposing irreversible changes:

 a court shall not consider as a factor weighing against the petitioner any taking of the child, or retention of the child after a visit or other temporary relinquishment of physical custody, from the person who has legal custody, if there is evidence that the taking or retention of the child was a result of domestic violence against the petitioner, as defined in Section 6211, or for the purposes of obtaining gender-affirming health care or gender-affirming mental health care.[emphases added]

In plain language: Newsom signed a law that allows California to take children away from their parents custody if the parents oppose gender transition medical measures.

This would be a killer issue in a presidential campaign:

Convention of States Action, along with the Trafalgar Group, released the data, which showed that 78.7 percent of voters believe underage minors should be required to wait until they are adults to legally use puberty blockers and undergo permanent sex-change procedures. Notably, 84.6% of Independents and even 53.2% of Democrats say the same. Mark Meckler, president of the Convention of States, said the poll shows Americans do not support the idea that young people have to be 16 to drive, 18 to vote, and 21 to drink, and yet can undergo life-altering medical procedures in middle school

Overwhelming majorities oppose irreversible changes for minors. Opposition to taking away custody of a child from parents who seek to protect their children from these changes must have even higher support.

The trans lobby ruthlessly attacks anyone who tries to back away from full-throated support of their cause. For instance, Dylan Mulvaney says Bud Lights backlash response was worse than not hiring a trans person at all.

So, any attempt by Newsom to back away from his position will result in outrage from the trans lobby.

Hes stuck, which is why he ignored the questions and kept on walking.

But that wont work in a presidential debate or on the campaign trail.

Photo credit: Twitter video screengrab (cropped)
First, this point from Elle Purnell:

Between April and June 2020, when IRS agents were preparing to execute interviews and search warrants, it was career DOJ officials, Shapley said, who purposely slow-walk[ed] investigative actions.

She then points out:

All of that happened under Trump and his attorney general, William Barr. Thats not to make the absurd suggestion that it happened at Trump or Barrs direction. Rather, it shows how monstrous the triple-letter leviathan and its grip on our political process are. It is "absurd" to say that President Trump protected Biden. But is it so absurd to argue that Barr played a role in protecting the likely Democrat nominee? I don't think so. I think it more likely than not that Barr accepted the invitation to return as AG for the purpose of thwarting Trump's re-election. This is just speculation, certainly, but I see Barr as an agent of what Purnell calls the "monstrous...tripe-letter leviathan" that has "our political process" in "its grip."

Michael Goodwin, New York Post, June 25, came closer to fingering Barr.

Barr tasked John Durham with getting to the bottom of the 2016 scandal, and Durham concluded the FBI never had enough evidence to open the Trump probe. Yet Barr did not pay sufficient attention to what was happening under his nose in the 2020 campaign. He certainly knew of the Hunter Biden probe, but, to judge from results, never realized corrupt DOJ officials were again abusing their power to rig the outcome of a second presidential election.

Barr, the consummate insider "never realized corrupt DOJ officials were again abusing their power to rig the outcome of a second presidential election"? Not credible.

Barrs backstabbing of the former president on Face the Nation, June 18, gives him away.

ROBERT COSTA: Republicans remain critical of the Attorney General who spoke out this week as well as Director Wray at the FBI, they've rallied the Trump side. Are they wrong to say that this Justice Department is acting in a political way? FMR. ATTORNEY GENERAL BARR: Well, if they're pointing to this case, I think they're wrong. I think the Department had no choice but to seek those documents. Their basic argument really isn't to defend his conduct, because Trump's conduct is indefensible. What they're really saying is, he should get a pass because Hillary Clinton got a pass six or seven years ago. Now, I think, you know, that's not a frivolous argument. But I- I'm not sure that's true. I think if you want to restore the rule of law and equal justice, you don't do it by further derogating from justice. You do it by applying the right standard here. And that's not unfair to Trump, because this is not a case where Trump is innocent and being unfairly hounded. He committed the crime, or if he did commit the crime, it's not unfair to hold them to that standard. ROBERT COSTA: You say Trump's alleged conduct is indefensible. So many Republicans continued to defend him. What will it say if the party, your longtime party, puts him forward as their nominee? FMR. ATTORNEY GENERAL BARR: Well, that's the problem. I don't think they're actually defending his conduct, but they are saying it's unfair to prosecute him. But that then raises another question. Okay, if it's unfair to prosecute, and that's not the whole answer. The question is, should we be putting someone like this forward as the leader of the country, leader of the free world, who is engaged in this kind of conduct? The other thing is, this is not just an isolated example. Trump has, you know, has many good qualities, and he accomplished some good things. But the fact of the matter is, he is a consummate narcissist. And he constantly engages in reckless conduct that- that puts his political followers at risk and- and- and the conservative and Republican agenda at risk-- ROBERT COSTA: Would he put the country at risk if he was in the White House again? FMR. ATTORNEY GENERAL BARR: He- he will always put his own interests, and gratifying his own ego, ahead of everything else, including the country's interest, there's no question about it. This is a perfect example of that. He's like, you know, he's like a nine year old, defiant nine year old kid who's always pushing the glass toward the edge of the table, defying his parents to stop him from doing it. It's a means of self assertion and exerting his dominance over other people. And he's a very petty individual who will always put his interests ahead of the country's, his personal gratification of his, you know, his ego, but our country- our country can't, you know, can't be a therapy session for you know, a troubled man like this.

The Barr appearance, June 18, on Face the Nation included this exchange between Costa and the backstabbing former attorney general:

ROBERT COSTA: Do you believe if he is convicted, he should serve his prison sentence? Well, I don't- we haven't even gotten to the point of whether he's been convicted and also what his sentence should be-- ROBERT COSTA: If it happens? FMR. ATTORNEY GENERAL BARR: You know, I don't like the idea of a former president serving time in prison.

William Barr, agent of the Deep State, successfully accomplishing his assignment to make sure the presidential term of the 45th president did not extend beyond January 20, 2021. Prison time would merely be icing on the cake -- and complicated by federal law: the Former Presidents Protection Act of 2012. (Unless, of course, Deep State has power to nullify Mr. Trump's status as former president.)

Photo credit: NPOMS CC BY 2.0 license
A Government TD has denied that the coalition could be seeking revenge against RTE amid an ongoing controversy around undeclared payments and governance.

It comes after the Irish Mail On Sunday, citing Cabinet sources, reported on plans to split the commercial and public service parts of the broadcaster and implement significant redundancies.

On Friday, Taoiseach Leo Varadkar had expressed concern that commercial and public money all goes into the one pot, suggesting that would no longer be appropriate.

On foot of the media reports, Minister of State Ossian Smyth said he spoke to Media Minister Catherine Martin on Sunday morning and said he was assured redundancies are not being sought.

Her focus is going to be to protect the employees through all of this and to fix RTE, he said.

Fianna Fail TD Niamh Smyth, who is chairwoman of the media committee, said neither she, her committee, nor the Media minister were using the controversy at the broadcaster to wield revenge.

Ms Smyth also told Newstalk that, having also spoken to the Ms Martin, she is sure that that is not the intention of the government to implement redundancies or split up RTE, saying that staff would not become collateral damage.

Im pretty certain from speaking with the minister this morning, that is our intention: to protect the staff, to protect RTE, and when I say protect I mean protect that entity of public service broadcasting.

Agreeing that putting forward proposals before the review would be putting the cart before the horse, she said that ultimately, theres one minister responsible for media and she wasnt seeking revenge on the station.

She added: I dont think its revenge in anybodys heart or mind in trying to sort out this in RTE.

RTE Interim Deputy Director General Adrian Lynch and Commercial Director Geraldine OLeary. (Brian Lawless/PA)

Irelands public service broadcaster has been embroiled in controversy since it revealed that it had underdeclared fees paid to highest-earner Ryan Tubridy over several years.

Most of the focus has been on two undeclared 75,000 euro payments made by RTE to Tubridy for the years 2021 and 2022, which were made after RTE reportedly underwrote the amounts due to Tubridy from Late Late Show sponsor Renault.

Political and media scrutiny has focused on why this guarantee was given, what level of governance and financial controls are in place at the broadcaster, and the use of a barter account used to pay the amounts, dubbed a slush fund by politicians and a former RTE chair.

RTE operates on a dual funding model, with 55% of its income, 200 million euro a year, brought in by way of the licence fee  which costs Irish households with a television 160 euro a year.

Catherine Martin will meet with the RTE board chairwoman (Liam McBurney/PA)

In recent years, RTE has emphasised a funding crisis at the broadcaster and called for reform of the licence fee, stating that millions were being lost annually by people evading the fee and using the RTE Player on phones and tablets.

Cabinet is due to meet on Tuesday and expected to approve Ms Martins proposal to launch an external review into RTEs governance and bring in an auditor.

Mr Smyth said on RTEs The Week In Politics that the external review process is expected to take a number of months, and would include interim reports.

He also said that Ms Martin has the power under the Broadcasting Act to send in an auditor, and he expected that she will use that power.

Ms Martin is also due to meet with chairwoman of the RTE board Siun Ni Raghallaigh and incoming director general Kevin Bakhurst in the coming days to discuss the external review, Mr Bakhursts plan to reconstitute the executive board and to engage with RTE staff.

The Oireachtas media committee has also extended its invitation out to former chairwoman of the RTE board Moya Doherty, ex director general Noel Curran, and former chief financial officer Breda OKeeffe to answer TDs and Senators questions on Wednesday.

Speaking on Newstalks On The Record programme on Sunday, Niamh Smyth said they would try to find out what knowledge there was of the undeclared payments.

The crux of this is about secret payments and the deception of that and I suppose the intended mechanism that was put in place to deceive, not just the public, but the government and the taxpayer, ultimately, she said.

Ms Smyth said it wasnt lost on committee members that no executive came to the committee last Wednesday with an opening statement, which is almost always used by witnesses to lay information before committees.

She said that Mr Tubridy and his agent Noel Kelly would be invited before members once the work with the RTE board and executives had been completed, and said the invite to Dee Forbes still stands.

Time is also being set aside in the Dail on Tuesday afternoon to allow TDs to give statements about recent developments.
British green energy industrialist Dale Vince has defended making 1.5 million donations to the Labour Party as well as contributions to Just Stop Oil saying he does not seek influence.

The founder of Ecotricity said he made the donations during the past 10 years to help Labour into power as he supported its environmental stance.

He told Sky News Sophy Ridge On Sunday: The reason I do that is I want them to win the next election as there is a funding gap between Labour and the Tories, a very big funding gap, and I am trying to do what I can to try and close that gap.

Dale Vince has defended his donations to Just Stop Oil and the Labour Party (Mike Egerton/PA)

He added: I am very clear with them that I do not want anything and they are very clear there is nothing on offer anyway.

Mr Vince said he had not influenced Sir Keir Starmers plans to end North Sea oil and gas exploration and he added that this was the right-wing press joining the dots to suggest it was a result of his donations.

Defending the Labour proposal he said of current Prime Minister Rishi Sunak: He has no mandate to drill in the North Sea for oil and gas, in fact he has no mandate at all, he should call an election.

Mr Vince accepted Labours announcement to delay funding green policies as very sensible because of the current economic crisis.

But he said that investing in green energy could boost the countrys economy.

He said: In terms of the cost-of-living crisis that we face, energy bills are a big part of that, if we transition to 100% green energy, we are at nearly 50% already.

We can eradicate fuel poverty, we can separate ourselves from global fossil fuel markets and be truly energy independent, the economic benefits to our country would be in excess of 50 billion a year kept in our country.

He added: For every billion pounds we invest in fossil fuels versus renewable energy, we can get twice as many jobs from renewable energy and twice as much GDP growth so a lot of what we need to do to get to a green economy doesnt require money at all.

Mr Vince also defended the Just Stop Oil protests saying the few minutes disruption did not compare to UN figures stating that four million people had lost their lives and 20 million are made homeless each year because of climate change.
The cancer which led to the death of campaigner Laura Nuttall is being neglected and treated as the cancer in the corner, her mother has said.

Nicola Nuttall said her daughter would be marching on the House of Commons if she was still alive, demanding improvements for the care of people with glioblastoma multiforme.

Her daughter died in May, aged just 23, after years of campaigning and raising awareness of the rare and aggressive brain cancer.

Mrs Nuttall called for a number of improvements in care, including genome sequencing of brain tumours and more information for those affected by the disease.

Laura Nuttall graduated from the University of Manchester (University of Manchester/PA)

She is backing a new report by the charity OurBrainBank which states that glioblastoma is being neglected by the healthcare system and that it is not getting the same level of research as other cancers.

She said that families should be able to access more information about the disease to be included on the NHS website  currently just listed as a malignant tumour on nhs.uk  and that newly diagnosed people are coming to her when they cannot find information online.

I dont have any medical training but theyre coming to me and asking me for advice and support, and Im happy to give it, but its really poor that somebody that runs an indoor play centre is seen as an expert in glioblastoma, she told the PA news agency.

Every time I get an email that says Im sorry for contacting you, could you give me some advice, my heart just sinks because its another family that are looking for a miracle where there really arent any.

The report also calls for whole genome sequencing for everybody that has a brain tumour removed in surgery.

When that tumour is removed the actual tissue thats removed is like gold dust, Mrs Nuttall said.

You can use it for genomic sequencing so you can identify exactly what that tumour was made up of.

And in the long term gives (scientists) the option of using frozen tissue to make a vaccine which is looking like quite promising treatments for glioblastoma.

She added: So its really important that something that could be seen as just medical waste is actually treated properly and used as a resource going forward.

And once we know what the mutations are, then theres the option to develop novel drug treatments. But at the moment there is one kind of chemotherapy and thats all thats given to people with glioblastoma, and it may well work for a period of time for some people, but we really do need personalised medicine as is available in other kinds of cancers.

It just feels like this one is really neglected.

I know its a hard one, I know the prognosis is really low, but we can change that by putting some effort into it.

Were deeply saddened by the death of Laura Nuttall, our hearts go out to her family. Laura and her family worked tirelessly to raise awareness of #Glioblastoma and campaign for #BrainCancerResearch. Her incredible positivity and determination will continue to inspire us pic.twitter.com/Pvql00Naf6  The ICR (@ICR_London) May 22, 2023

And you know, if you go on the NHS website and put glioblastoma in, youll just get a page on malignant tumours, you wont actually find any specific information on it.

So it really does feel like its kind of the cancer in the corner that nobody is putting any effort into.

She said that she will keep campaigning because Laura would be expecting us to continue the fight.

Mrs Nuttall added: Theres been no improvement in decades for this cancer.

Were just going to have to be more noisy about it because unless we do that nothing is going to change.

Ms Nuttall, from Barrowford, Lancashire, was diagnosed with brain cancer in autumn 2018 following a routine eye test.

She was initially told by medics that she would have 12 months to live and dropped out of university in London and underwent an operation to remove the largest of eight tumours.

But in September 2019 she was able to resume her studies closer to home at the University of Manchester and completed a number of items on her bucket list before she died, including completing her degree, meeting Michelle Obama, piloting a Royal Navy patrol boat and presenting a television weather bulletin.

Laura Nuttall with her mother Nicola and father Mark (PA)

In August 2021 comedian Peter Kay performed two sell-out gigs in Manchester to raise money for Ms Nuttall and Hollywood A-lister Sandra Bullock sent her a touching video message just days before she died in May.

The OurBrainBank report sets out the state of care and therapies available to people diagnosed with glioblastoma in the UK.

The document, which will be presented to the British Neuro-Oncology Society conference in Manchester later this week, says that although there have been many cancer advances in recent years, little progress has been made on glioblastoma, with the standard of care in the NHS unchanged for almost 20 years.

The authors set out the steps which should be taken to improve the situation for patients including genome sequencing for brain tumours removed during surgery, better information on glioblastomas on NHS and Government websites and more clinical trials.

The campaign is also being backed by journalist Richard Clemmow, the widower of former BBC executive Jana Bennett, who died in January 2022, aged 66.

He said: Glioblastoma has been consistently overlooked by those in charge of the NHS at all levels. Its a scandal.

Whilst huge advances have been made in treatment of more common cancers, the situation for people diagnosed with glioblastoma hasnt changed in 20 years. We should hold politicians and those in healthcare to account. We all need to use our brains and focus our minds on the reports findings immediately.

A Department of Health and Social Care spokesperson said: Brain cancer can be a devastating disease  which is why weve specifically allocated 40 million for research in this area, on top of 1 billion a year for wider health research.

Weve invested in every suitable application made and the funding will continue to be available for further studies to develop new treatments and therapies for brain tumours.

To encourage further successful applications, we are investing in infrastructure, workshops for researchers and training for clinicians.

For more information visit: https://www.ourbrainbank.org/use-your-brains/
Joe Biden will meet the King and Prime Minister Rishi Sunak when he visits the UK later this month.

A visit to the UK had long been expected and comes after Mr Sunak visited Washington last month for talks with the US president.

Downing Street said that the visit reflected the strong relationship between the UK and US, after the White House confirmed the trip.

President Biden is scheduled to travel to the United Kingdom, Lithuania, and Finland from July 9-13.

President Biden will first travel to London, United Kingdom for engagements with King Charles III and Prime Minister Rishi Sunak to further strengthen the close relationship between our nations, White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said in a statement.

Buckingham Palace confirmed that the King will meet Mr Biden at Windsor Castle on July 10.

A No 10 spokeswoman said: The Prime Minister looks forward to welcoming President Biden in the UK later this month.

This reflects the strong relationship between the UK and US, building on a series of bilateral visits and meetings earlier this year.

The King with president of the United States, Joe Biden (Jane Barlow/PA)

Mr Biden made a brief trip to Northern Ireland earlier this year to mark the 25th anniversary of the Good Friday Agreement, meeting the Prime Minister for brief talks in Belfast.

The White House said that after visiting the UK Mr Biden would then travel to Vilnius, Lithuania from July 11- 12 to attend the 74th Nato Summit.

On July 13, President Biden will visit Helsinki, Finland for a US-Nordic Leaders Summit.

The apparently short trip by Mr Biden comes after the US and the UK announced a new partnership, the Atlantic Declaration, to bolster economic security.

Announced during Mr Sunaks visit to the White House, it included commitments on easing trade barriers, closer defence industry ties and a data protection deal.

While both sides used that Washington visit to hail the strength of US-UK ties, Mr Biden has not been afraid of occasionally criticising London.

Mr Biden in May claimed that he visited the island of Ireland earlier this year to ensure the Brits didnt screw around, amid ongoing US concern about the impact of Brexit on the peace process.

During that visit, the President told the Irish parliament that he believed the UK should be working more closely with the administration in Dublin to support Northern Ireland.

Mr Biden and First Lady Jill Biden travelled to London for the funeral of the late Queen last September.

The US President did not attend the Kings coronation, with his wife attending instead.

Mr Sunak will also be attending the Nato summit in Vilnius, which is seen as a crunch summit at which a compromise on Ukraines demand for membership of the alliance is expected to be hammered out.
New regional improvement teams would be used to help improve under-performing schools under Labour plans.

Shadow education secretary Bridget Phillipson said the proposals would help drive high and rising standards in every school, with the partys broader vision due to be set out in a major speech by Sir Keir Starmer this week.

Labour said the new teams would partner with struggling schools to respond to areas of weakness identified in new school report cards.

Such a move would see the party reform the inspection approach taken by watchdog Ofsted.

Shadow education secretary Bridget Phillipson outlined Labours plans (Jordan Pettitt/PA)

It comes as the party cited research by the House of Commons Library showing that children from poorer backgrounds are almost twice as likely to go to an inadequate school.

The party said that 87,200 primary and secondary pupils eligible for free school meals attend schools rated as inadequate at the last Ofsted inspection.

Only by making sure there are high and rising standards in our schools will break down the barriers to opportunity for children  including those from the poorest families  getting on, Ms Philipson said.

For too long under the Conservatives support for schools to improve has been patchy and no-one has taken responsibility for driving high and rising standards, not just in the worst performing schools but in good ones too.

For Labour, good isnt good enough: thats why we will strive for ongoing improvement in every school by introducing new regional improvement teams to drive those high and rising standards in every school, because we believe excellence is for everyone.

The party said that the regional improvement teams would bring together oversight of improvement programmes, while also working with teachers so that schools are clear on the support available.

Labour has pledged that its reforms would tackle the exodus of teachers leaving the profession under the Conservatives.
Tributes have been paid to a true public servant of the highest integrity, Lord Bob Kerslake, after his family announced he has died.

The former head of the civil service, 68, died on Saturday after a short battle with cancer, his devastated sister Ros Kerslake CBE said in a post on social media on Sunday morning.

Former prime minister David Cameron called him a committed public official and said that he served the Coalition Government with great professionalism after a long career in local government.

Senior Labour Party figures including leader Sir Keir Starmer; shadow health secretary Wes Streeting; former shadow chancellor John McDonnell; and mayor of London Sadiq Khan, were also among those who paid their respects to the crossbench peer.

My brother Bob (Lord Robert Kerslake) died yesterday after a short battle with cancer. We are all devastated. pic.twitter.com/DfLsNRMUZx  Ros Kerslake CBE (@roskerslake) July 2, 2023

He was nominated for a peerage by Mr Cameron and ennobled following his retirement as permanent secretary at the Department for Communities and Local Government, with the peerage was conferred by the late Queen in 2015.

Lord Kerslake was also a chairman of Kings College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust in south London but he quit the role in 2017, warning that the health service could not continue staggering along under the current funding levels.

Lord Kerslake (Victoria Jones/PA)

Announcing the news on Twitter, Ros Kerslake wrote: My brother Bob (Lord Robert Kerslake) died yesterday after a short battle with cancer. We are all devastated.

In another tweet, Eleanor Kerslake added: Unfortunately my wonderful dad Bob Kerslake died yesterday.

We are all devastated.

Dad had a few jobs in his time but the most important to him was being a truly fantastic husband, dad, brother, son and granddad.

Im very sorry to learn that Bob Kerslake has died, Sir Keir tweeted on Sunday.

Bob was a talented public servant, utmost professional, and a good man.

He was rightly respected across Westminster for his experience and wisdom, and Im grateful for his recent contributions to the Labour Party.

Sincere condolences to his family.

Lord Bob Kerslake was a true public servant. His kindness and commitment to improving our city and country will always be remembered. My thoughts are with his family and friends today. https://t.co/uxvRIdlEJ1  Sadiq Khan (@SadiqKhan) July 2, 2023

Cabinet Secretary Simon Case said he was deeply saddened by the news.

Bob will always be remembered for his immense contribution to public life, including during his time as head of the Civil Service, he said in a statement.

Labour veteran Mr McDonnell tweeted: Just heard the terribly sad news Bob Kerslake has died.

Ive known Bob from when he was with us at the GLC (Greater London Council).

He was a true public servant of the highest integrity, dedicating his life to caring for people & tackling inequality wherever he found it. My condolences to his family.

Mr Streeting said his death was terribly sad news.

Bob was such a committed and decent public servant taken far too soon, he tweeted.

Deepest condolences to your family and all those who knew and loved him.

Very sorry to hear that Bob Kerslake has passed away. A committed public official, he served the Coalition Government with great professionalism after a long career in local government. My thoughts and heartfelt condolences are with his family. pic.twitter.com/nZ7aG3RBoW  David Cameron (@David_Cameron) July 2, 2023

Mr Khan hailed him as a true public servant.

His kindness and commitment to improving our city and country will always be remembered, he added.

My thoughts are with his family and friends today.

Mark Lloyd, chief executive at the Local Government Association, paid tribute to the peer who served as president of the body between 2015 and 2021.

He said: Bob was a giant of local government and remained a passionate champion during his time as our president and far beyond.

He will be missed.

Lord Kerslake also chaired the independent review into Greater Manchesters preparedness and response to the Manchester Arena bombing in 2017.
Police officers at London Pride were reportedly told not to wear a badge commemorating officers killed in the line of duty because of concerns about its links to far-right groups in the US.

While the Thin Blue Line badge has traditionally been used to show support for law enforcement, it has become politically charged in the US, where it has been used by counter-protesters at Black Lives Matter marches.

The ban of the badge at London Pride, reported in the Mail on Sunday, was condemned by the mother of police constable Andrew Harper who was killed in the line of duty in Berkshire in 2019.

Police constable Andrew Harper was killed near Sulhamstead in 2019 (Thames Valley Police)

His mother, Debbie Adlam, told the newspaper that she considered the badge, which consists of a blue line stretched across a black background, to be a universal memorial.

Since we lost Andrew, we have considered the Thin Blue Line image to be a universal memorial to the loss of these officers, she said.

She added: It concerns me that there are those who want to take (the badge) away.

I hope that today is not the start of the end for the Thin Blue Line and all it means to us in the UK.

The paper reported that a Met commander ahead of Saturdays parade advised officers the symbol had been linked to anti-trans groups in the US.

No Thin Blue Line badges/patches are to be worn whilst policing this event, the commander is reported to have said.

These have been linked to far-right and anti-trans groups in the US and this years Pride is focusing very much on the trans community. This is non-negotiable and supervisors are expected to ensure this is adhered to please.

Asked about the reported ban, a Metropolitan Police spokesman said officers can only wear insignia associated with the National Police Memorial Day Trust, Help for Heroes and the Royal British Legion charities.

The Mets Dress Code Policy sets out the official uniform police officers must adhere to whilst serving the public without fear or favour, a spokesperson for the force said.

The policy has not changed. The policy makes exception for the work of the National Police Memorial Day Trust, Help for Heroes and the Royal British Legion charities and permits officers to wear their insignia whilst on duty.

The police deserve our gratitude and respect, rather than this nonsense below from vested interest groups imposing their false narratives and ludicrous demands on our hard-working officers. pic.twitter.com/F0Bb8iep06  Priti Patel MP (@pritipatel) July 1, 2023

Former home secretary Priti Patel condemned the reported ban, writing on Twitter that it was nonsense from vested interest groups imposing their false narratives and ludicrous demands on our hard-working officers.

In November 2022, the Mayor of Londons spokesperson said that the Metropolitan Police Service (MPS) Uniform & Appearance Board was reviewing the wearing of the badge to ensure the MPS approach remains consistent with other forces nationally.

The spokesperson said that the Thin Blue Line is commonly accepted as demonstrating camaraderie among the police.

The spokesperson added at the time: Subtle wearing of this imagery, eg: a Velcro patch or pin badge is not prohibited by the current MPS dress code.
Health officials have raised concerns over children and adults being bombarded with gambling adverts after a record number of people have sought help for gambling addiction in England.

NHS England boss Amanda Pritchard also sounded the alarm over touch of a button bets as she announced that the NHS is ramping up support for people with gambling problems.

New specialist clinics are to be opened as a result of soaring demand for care, she said.

The NHS in England has seen a steep rise in demand for support for gambling-related harms, a spokeswoman for the service said.

A record 1,389 patients were referred for help last year, compared 1,013 last year and 775 two years ago.

As a result, the NHS is launching seven more specialist gambling clinics to support people who are struggling.

The announcement comes just days after a coroner ruled that a gambling disorder contributed to the death of a father-of-two.

Luke Ashton died at the age of 40 (Leigh Day Solicitors/PA)

Luke Ashton had lost thousands of pounds gambling on Betfairs exchange before he died by suicide at the age of 40 on April 22 2021, and had previously racked up debts of 18,000.

At the conclusion of a three-day inquest into his death at Leicester Coroners Court on Thursday, area coroner Ivan Cartwright said the betting company could have done more to help him before he took his own life.

The new NHS clinics were to be set up in Milton Keynes, Thurrock, Bristol, Derby, Liverpool, Blackpool, and Sheffield.

This is on top of clinics already running in London, Leeds, Newcastle, Manchester, Southampton, Stoke-on-Trent, and Telford as well as a national clinic, which treats both gambling and gaming addiction in children and young people, based in London.

The NHS plans to treat up to 3,000 patients a year across the 15 clinics.

Patients with serious addiction will be helped though cognitive behavioural therapy, family therapy, support groups and aftercare.

Psychologists, therapists, psychiatrists, mental health nurses and peer support workers will staff the clinics, offering support to patients as well as their family members, partners, and carers.

NHS England boss Amanda Pritchard said gambling addiction is a cruel disease which has the power to destroy peoples lives (PA)

Ahead of the NHSs 75th birthday on Wednesday, this expansion shows the NHS once again adapting to the new healthcare needs that have emerged over the last 75 years, Ms Pritchard said.

In 1948 when the NHS was founded, you had to go to a bookies to place a bet, but now people can gamble on their phone at the touch of a button and everyone, young and old, is bombarded with adverts encouraging them to take part.

Record numbers of people are coming to the NHS for help to treat their gambling addiction, a cruel disease which has the power to destroy peoples lives, with referrals up by more than a third compared to last year.

As it has done since 1948, the NHS is responding at speed and rolling out seven new gambling harms clinics across England, so that even more people can be supported by the NHS in their time of need.

The NEW East Midlands Gambling Service will offer specialist treatment and support to people struggling with a gambling problem. The service will provide specialist therapies, treatment and recovery to those affected by gambling addiction. Read more  https://t.co/bkeTEwG1sB pic.twitter.com/RVtOp0D4qK  DerbyshireHealthcare  (@derbyshcft) June 26, 2023

One patient who received help from the Northern Gambling Harms Service, said: Gambling addiction took over my life to the extent I was suicidal and relationships with my family and friends had broken down.

Engaging with NHS services has helped me get control of my life back and Im rebuilding trust with my family and friends, once again having happy and healthy relationships with people close to me.

Commenting on the new clinics, Public Health Minister Neil O Brien said: The stark rise in the number of people seeking NHS treatment for gambling-related harms shows the devastating impact it can have on peoples lives and health.

These new clinics will bring vital support to more parts of the country, so thousands more people can get the help they need.

We have taken firm action to tackle gambling-related harms through our White Paper, which includes our commitment to introduce a statutory levy so gambling companies pay their fair share towards the costs of treatment services.
Orkney Islands Council is set to explore its Nordic connections as it discusses alternative forms of governance which could see the islands legal status change.

Council leader James Stockan has put forward a motion which says it is time for Orkney to consider other forms of governance which could provide more economic opportunity.

It suggests this could include looking at crown dependencies such as Guernsey, Jersey and the Isle of Man.

Nordic connections are also suggested, with a report going before a council meeting this week mentioning the Faroe Islands  a self-governing territory of Denmark in the North Sea.

The council leader said Orkney had been failed dreadfully (Jane Barlow/PA)

The council leaders motion does not commit the council to any of these options and the officials report notes that any constitutional change would likely require a combination of petitions, referenda and legislation at Holyrood and Westminster.

Mr Stockan told the BBC he felt that Orkney is being failed dreadfully by Governments in both Edinburgh and London.

Funding is less per head than Shetland and the Western Isles receive, he said.

Orkney was under Norwegian and Danish control until 1472 when the islands were given to Scotland as part of Margaret of Denmarks wedding dowry to King James III of Scotland.

Mr Stockan told the BBC: We were part of the Norse kingdom for much longer than we were part of the United Kingdom.

On the street in Orkney, people come up and say to me when are we going to pay back the dowry, when are we going back to Norway.

There is a huge affinity and a huge deep cultural relationship there. This is exactly the moment to explore what is possible.

The Scottish Lib Dem MSP for Orkney, Liam McArthur, said he supported empowering island communities but warned there are dangers in putting up barriers.

He said: I am due to meet local councillors on Monday and will be interested to learn more about what is envisaged.

There were similar proposals considered by OIC around the time of the last independence referendum and I am keen to understand how these would differ.

Locally, I think islanders will also want to be reassured that this exercise wont result in council resources being taken away from the day-to-day running of services at a time when these are under real pressure.
Self-portraits created in stained glass by students from a Belfast school are to go on display as a permanent fixture.

The glass tiles, created by year nine and 10 students at Malone Integrated College, under the guidance of visual artist Kerrie Hanna, will be forged together to create a colourful bespoke window made up of a series of individual panes.

The new window will go on display at the school in September.

It is the final element of a two-year art project the students have been engaged in as part of the Creative Schools Programme, a cross-government programme funded by the Arts Council of Northern Ireland through National Lottery funding, the Education Authority and the Executive Office through Urban Villages Initiative.

Malone College was one of 11 schools located in identified urban village areas awarded funding in 2011. Each of the schools received up to 15,000 of funding to develop an arts-led project which would connect with the school curriculum and support student development.

The stained glass window will be installed in the school in September (Brian Morrison/PA)

The pupils at Malone College have had the opportunity to step outside of their normal school activities to take part in specially devised drama and art sessions led by professional artists and focused on encouraging creative learning and improving student confidence.

With 26 different languages spoken by students within the school, a focus of the project has been on celebrating cultural diversity and promoting inclusion.

Art and design teacher Lynsay-Erin Mercer has led on the programme and said the experimental approach has made a real difference to students in the wake of Covid, promoting positive self-expression and encouraging new creative ways of thinking and learning.

She said: We wanted this project to be a collaboration, with input from myself as the teacher, as well as the artist and the children.

We discussed ideas and what emerged was that the children wanted to look at their identity and some of the different cultures represented here within the school.

We explored portraiture and looked at pattern development from around the world and the children worked with Kerrie to create the stained glass.

The project has been a real success.

The children have learnt new skills, different to what they would generally do in class, and it has also been good for my own professional development.

Ill be able to take what I have learned through to other classes and year groups.

Its been a really worthwhile experience and the children can all say, with pride, that they have been a part of something really special.

Malone Integrated College Students Farham Kiani, Danielle Godfrey, Jason Kirkpatrick, Haneen Mohamed and Grace Denvir are pictured with Marie ODonoghue (creative schools partnership programme manager), Patricia Lavery (head of education and outreach, Arts Council of Northern Ireland) , Kerrie Hanna (Artist), LynsayErin Mercer (teacher, Malone Integrated College) and Brian Hyland, local support officer, South Belfast Urban Villages Initiative (Brian Morrison/PA)

Director of Urban Villages Joan OHara said: The Urban Villages Initiative is delighted to be able to support this innovative project through the Creative Schools Partnership Programme.

The work the students are involved in will help them develop a wide range of skills through creative learning.

Having this beautiful stained-glass piece as a permanent installation within the school building showcases and celebrates diversity and inclusion.

This will encourage students to share their voices not just within school but wider, in their local community and will provide new life experiences, help generate new thinking, new viewpoints and new ideas which is at the heart of building good relations.

The 11 schools taking part in the Creative Schools Partnership Programme are Lisneal College, Belfast Boys Model School, St Josephs Boys School, Blessed Trinity College, Ashfield Girls High School, St Cecilias College, Mercy College Belfast, St Vincents Centre, Belfast Model School for Girls, Malone Integrated College, and St Colms High School.
Bridget Phillipson has said she does not believe her Labour frontbench colleague Jess Phillips is racist, amid a row with a high-profile headteacher.

Ms Phillips was accused of racist and bullying behaviour by Katharine Birbalsingh, former chairwoman of the Social Mobility Commission and once dubbed Britains strictest headteacher.

Asked about the allegations on Sunday, shadow education secretary Ms Phillipson said she does not believe her colleague is racist, but anyone who is unhappy with the conduct of an MP should make their concerns known through the formal parliamentary process.

Shadow education secretary Bridget Phillipson said she does not believe her colleague Jess Phillips is racist (Jordan Pettitt/PA)

Ms Birbalsingh, head of high-achieving Michaela Community School in Brent, north-west London, accused Ms Phillips, MP for Birmingham Yardley and a shadow Home Office minister, of seeking to whip up a social media mob against her on Twitter.

Her behaviour is a clear example of unconscious bias. I mean that she hates me, despite not knowing me, because she subscribes to the idea that black and Asian individuals in public life owe a duty to voice opinions that match with a left-wing view of the world, or they are worthy of her contempt, Ms Birbalsingh said in a four-page open letter to Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer published on Saturday.

The row came after the headteacher said she inadvertently tweeted a picture of Tina Turner alongside her abusive former husband Ike Turner amid tributes to the late star.

Below is my open letter to Sir Keir Starmer @Keir_Starmer regarding the behaviour of his Shadow Minister Jess Phillips. pic.twitter.com/vNMvceO5lr  Katharine Birbalsingh (@Miss_Snuffy) July 1, 2023

Ms Phillipson was asked on Skys Sophie Ridge On Sunday programme to respond to the allegations levelled at her colleague.

She said: My reaction to anyone who feels unhappy about the conduct of a Labour MP is that they should complain through our processes and then the matter can be looked into.

And, as Members of Parliament, were also subject to a code of conduct and there are processes in place for people who are unhappy with an MPs behaviour, to report it in that way.

I would suggest that to any individual thats unhappy about the conduct of a Member of Parliament.

Asked if it is right for Ms Birbalsingh to put in an official complaint, Ms Phillipson said: I think anyone who is unhappy about the conduct of an MP in any way should make their concerns known and then they can be properly considered.

Asked if she thinks Ms Phillips is racist, Ms Phillipson said: No, I dont. But I think its important that, if people have concerns, if theyre unhappy about the conduct of a Member of Parliament, that can be investigated as part of that process.

Katharine Birbalsingh has accused Labour MP Jess Phillips of racist and bullying behaviour (PA)

She was also asked if there is any truth in claims that criticism has been levelled at the headteacher because she is not seen as being left-wing.

Ms Phillipson said: When I visit schools the length and breadth of the country, what I find are dedicated people who are focused on making sure children get a great start in life.

Very rarely will the conversation drift into politics. What people come into teaching to do, and what people when they become school leaders are focused on as well, is delivering really high-quality education. And thats as it should be.

Asked if she would like to visit the Michaela Community School run by Ms Birbalsingh, the shadow education secretary said: I visit schools everywhere. Im always open to invitations to visit schools right across the country, its the best part of the job.

Ms Phillips has been contacted for a response.
Holidaymakers have been advised by a travel expert not to cancel their trips to France following five nights of unrest but to stay flexible and avoid big cities at night-time.

Rioting has spread across the country following the fatal shooting by police of 17-year-old boy Nahel in the Paris suburb of Nanterre on Tuesday.

The UK Government updated its guidance for travellers to France to warn of potential disruption but it does not advise against travel to the country.

Health Secretary Steve Barclay encouraged people considering travelling to France to check the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) for updated advice.

Firefighters use a water hose on a burnt bus in Nanterre, outside Paris (Lewis Joly/AP)

Speaking on Skys Sophy Ridge On Sunday programme, he said: Its something that the Foreign and Commonwealth Office will be monitoring very closely.

They keep regular updates on their website.

And what I would say to anyone concerned about it who is thinking of travelling to France, to keep an eye on the Foreign Office website, there will be regular updates there, and that will keep people informed.

Paul Charles, founder of travel consultancy The PC Agency, suggested people should not cancel their trips as they would not be covered by their travel insurance unless the FCDO advised against travel to France.

He told the PA news agency: Its clearly a nerve-wracking time for those planning to go, its vital to keep up to date with the latest news because its such a fast-moving situation and UK travellers are going to have to be flexible in their planning.

My advice would be to stay clear for the moment of big cities in the evenings, make sure you are not going to areas where there is likely to be large protests taking place and seek advice from the hotel you are staying in or from local websites which are being updated about the situation.

Mont St Michel, on the north coast of France with travellers advised to avoid cities(Martin Keene/PA)

The last thing you should do is cancel your trip because you would not be covered under travel insurance for that because you are still able to travel, flights and ferries are still going, you would suffer quite a financial loss.

The travel advice would have to change from the Government to one of we advise against travel and that is not what they are doing at the moment.

He added: This has the potential to flare up into a much more worrying situation because of the deep frustration in some French cities about the political situation, it could easily get worse before it gets better.

It follows demonstrations about pension reform and what you are seeing now is a widening into other political issues and during hot summer evenings in France this has the potential to get worse.

I wouldnt say dont book a holiday to France, it remains a very attractive place to go but book to go somewhere that is more remote, quieter, that isnt a big city and steer clear of big cities in the evenings.

Travellers are advised to avoid big cities at night-time (John Walton/PA)

The latest FCDO advice states: Since June 27, riots have taken place across France.

Many have turned violent.

Shops, public buildings and parked cars have been targeted.

There may be disruptions to road travel and local transport provision may be reduced.

Some local authorities may impose curfews.

Locations and timing of riots are unpredictable.

You should monitor the media, avoid areas where riots are taking place, check the latest advice with operators when travelling and follow the advice of the authorities.
CIA Director William Burns said Saturday that the effects of the armed rebellion led by Wagner Group chief Yevgeny Prigozhin one week ago would "play out for some time" in Russia, and were a "vivid reminder" of the "corrosive effect" of Putin's regime.

"It is striking that Prigozhin preceded his actions with a scathing indictment of the Kremlin's mendacious rationale for its invasion of Ukraine, and of the Russian military leadership's conduct of the war," Burns said in prepared remarks delivered at the Ditchley Foundation in Oxfordshire, England. "The impact of those words and those actions will play out for some time, a vivid reminder of the corrosive effect of Putin's war on his own society and his own regime."

He also said the CIA was facing a "once-in-generation opportunity" to recruit human sources in Russia because of "disaffection" with the war in Ukraine, noting a recent Telegram video giving Russians instructions for securely contacting the agency notched 2.5 million views in its first week.

"We're very much open for business," Burns said.

Reiterating prior messaging by the Biden administration, but in his own first public remarks on the matter, Burns said the U.S. "has had and will have no part" in Prigozhin's rebellion or its fallout.

Earlier this week, Burns also personally delivered a message to the head of Russia's foreign intelligence service that the U.S. was not involved in last week's armed rebellion, a U.S. official confirmed to CBS News. The Biden administration has publicly stressed that it views the uprising and its fallout as an internal Russian affair.

Burns reached out to Russian SVR intelligence head Sergei Naryshkin on the phone, as the Wall Street Journal first reported, to convey to Moscow that the U.S. had no role in the uprising. The conversation between the directors is thought to be the highest-level engagement between the U.S. and Russia since Prigozhin's short-lived assault  the most serious challenge to Russian President Vladimir Putin's grip on power in his more than two-decade rule.

President Biden said on Monday that the U.S. had conducted the outreach to "make sure we gave Putin no excuse - let me emphasize - we gave Putin no excuse to blame this on the West or to blame this on NATO." On Wednesday Biden said "yes" when he was asked if he believed Putin had been weakened by the events, adding the Russian leader had "become a pariah around the world."

U.S. ambassador to Russia Lynne Tracy relayed messages similar to Burns' during last week's events to the Russian Foreign Ministry, adding that the U.S. expected its diplomatic personnel stationed in Russia to be protected, according to the State Department. Moscow's ambassador to the U.S., Anatoly Antonov, was also apprised, a State Department official said.

Before Prigozhin's rebellion was launched, Burns had also traveled to Ukraine, where he has gone regularly since the outbreak of the war, a U.S. official confirmed.

"As with other trips, the director met with his Ukrainian intelligence counterparts and President Zelenskyy, reaffirming the U.S. commitment to sharing intelligence to help Ukraine defend against Russian aggression," the official told CBS News. The official added that Prigozhin's armed assault was not a topic of conversation in Burns' meetings.

U.S. intelligence agencies had been tracking the increasingly acrimonious tension between Prigozhin and the Russian military for months and had briefed administration and congressional stakeholders on a potential armed rebellion shortly before it sprung.

The CIA declined to comment on Burns' latest visit to Kyiv, which was first reported by The Washington Post.

President Biden has frequently deployed Burns, a career diplomat and former ambassador to Russia, to address sensitive overseas developments. He met with Taliban interlocutors ahead of the collapse of Kabul in August of 2021, and in May met for the first time with his counterpart in Beijing - helping pave the way for other U.S.-China interactions after a months-long freeze in relations.

Burns and Naryshkin previously had a rare and tense face-to-face encounter in Turkey last November, when Burns was dispatched by the administration to warn Moscow against using nuclear weapons. He later called the interaction "dispiriting," and Naryshkin "defiant."

The former diplomat was also sent to Moscow in November of 2021 to warn Putin against launching his invasion of Ukraine; the two spoke by phone. When, months later, the invasion nonetheless looked imminent, Burns was tasked by the administration to brief Zelenskyy on the latest U.S. intelligence on Russia's plan.

"CBS Weekend News" headlines for Saturday, July 1, 2023

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